A PUBLICATION OF REYNOLDSBURG UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

SUMMER 2012

Dare
My God Story MiSSionS update

The Big
thiS little liGht of Mine iM Gonna let it Shine

adult BiBle Study fall lineup

roMania & haiti

WORSHIP SERVICES
Monday 5:459pm - Celebrate Recovery Wednesday 6:30pm - Pastors Bible Study Saturday 6:00pm - Chapel Service Sunday 8:00am - Traditional 9:15am - Contemporary 11:00am - Traditional Church Online Sunday 9:15 & 11:00 rumc.org click on Church Family then Live Stream Childrens Worship at 9:15am Preschool Worship (Room 103) K4 Kindergarten through 4th Grade (Student Ministries Room) Children are welcome at all our weekend gatherings. Childcare & childrens programming are provided at the 9:15 and 11am services. Communion is offered the first weekend of each month DURING all services, and the remaining weekends immediately FOLLOWING each service in the Worship Center. (Gluten-free communion elements are available.)

The Messenger
A PUBLICATION OF

REYNOLDSBURG
UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

THE MESSENGER quarterly publication SUMMER 2012 Check out weekly news, sermons, and features at rumc.org EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Dennis Franko DESIGN/LAYOUT Matt Holley

PASTORAL/MINISTRY LEAD STAFF

LEAD PASTOR Jeff Greenway PASTOR OF ADMINISTRATION Kevin Kellogg PASTOR OF YOUTH Tim Levert PASTOR OF EVANGELISM Tasha Levert PASTOR OF LOCAL MISSIONS Matt Wright PASTOR OF VISITATION Maxine Smith-Pierce COUNSELOR IN RESIDENCE Dr. Carl Wiley, BCCC DIRECTOR OF WORSHIP ARTS & MESSAGING Dennis Franko DIRECTOR OF CHILDRENS MINISTRIES Tracy Holstein DIRECTOR OF MUSIC Phil Wallace

ADDRESS CHANGE: Send address change to membership@rumc.org or 614-866-5864, ext. 110

ARTICLE SUBMISSION: Send articles via e-mail to messenger@rumc.org. Deadline for the FALL quarterly is Monday, October 1, 2012.

CONTENTS
SUMMER 2012 FEATURES

My God Story: This Little Light of Mine

Summer WorkCamp

Adult Bible Study Fall Lineup

Missions Update Romania & Haiti

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INSIDE THIS ISSUE

The Big Dare .. 2 Parker Scholarship 5 Chimers, Bells & Puppets 5 Kober Internship 6 Vacation Bible School Review . 10 Fall 2012 Childrens Programming .. 11 Reynoldsburg United Methodist Women 14

INSIDE EVERY ISSUE

In Appreciation ......... 15 New Members ...... 16 Calendar 17
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The Big

Dare
When was the last time you risked anything to help someone who lived far away from God to come closer to Him? When we stop and think about it, many of us have a relationship with Jesus because someone took a risk to show and share faith with us. When is the last time you risked anything to help someone who lived far away from God to come closer to Him? Some of us are reading this and saying to ourselves, I dont want to be embarrassed. I am afraid that they will not like me if I show and share faith. What if they say, No?
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ne of my favorite scenes in the movie, A Christmas Story is when Ralphie and his friends are gathered around their schools frozen flag pole and they start daring each other to put their tongues on the pole. One of them dares the othersand in a breach of daring etiquette, another one of them triple-dog-dares one of his friends to stick his tongue to the frozen pole. The result is predictableand funny. At the risk of breaching daring etiquette, the Lead Ministry Staff and I are issuing a BIG Dareto take the risk of inviting at least ten people to join you for worship or some other church activity between August 1 and the end of 2012. We would like this to begin in the month of August when we start a new series called DISCOVER a Better Life. I know this is a risk, but I think it is a time for us to start taking some risks when it comes to showing and sharing Jesus in our lives.

When we stop and think about it, the only reason that many of us are Christ-followers is because someone we know loved us enough to riskby inviting us to come to a special event, like The Mad Hatters Ball, Guys Night or the Chili Festivalor by asking us to join them for weekly worship, a LifeGroup or at a Fusion Gatheringor by including our children in Fuel Childrens Ministries, Route 56 or Vacation Bible Schoolor by engaging us in a spiritual conversation when we noticed that they live with a joy and authenticity for which we yearned.

When you think about it, those are just excuses. Arent you grateful that Jesus was willing to risk coming to earth and walking to the Cross and out of the tomb to open the way for a relationship with us? Arent you grateful for the saints over the years who risked life and

limb so that a new generation would come to know the joy of knowing and serving Jesus? Arent you grateful for the persons in your life who risked showing and sharing Jesus with you? The life of following Jesus involves riskand one of the first we have to take is showing and sharing our faith. At the end of his letter to the Roman Christfollowers, the Apostle Paul is sharing some parting instructions when he writes: Greet Priscilla and Aquila, my co-workers in Christ Jesus. They risked their lives for me. Not only I but all the churches of the Gentiles are grateful to them. (Romans 16:3) The closing words of Pauls letters are often ones that we are prone to skip over. As he starts to list names and instructions, it is almost as if we hear the voice of the teacher in a Charlie Brown television special as the words turn to Wah-wah-wah-wah-wahwah-wah. When this happens, we often miss the pointand sometimes a powerful faith lesson. Priscilla and Aquilla were early pioneer Christ-followers in the city of Corinth. They were among the first people to risk responding to Jesus in Corinthand when Paul left there to go to Ephesus where he was establishing a church there, they risked going with him. They went there somewhat like his advance team. They became part of the community. They were known in the marketplace. They attended the synagogue. When Paul would eventually come and stay in Ephesuswhere he would remain for three yearsthe church would often meet in the home of Pricilla and Aquilla. We do not know all that they did, but we do know thiswhen Paul was at the end of his life, writing one of his last letters, he asked them to greet these two partners in ministry who had risked their lives for him. I am not asking you to risk your lives I am just asking you to risk being intentional about showing and sharing Jesus with the people that God has placed in your life. Are you willing?

Three simple steps to get started: 1. Pray Ask God to bring people to mind that you know who may not be connected with Him or a community of faith. Ask God to give you the opportunity to show and share faith with people He has placed in your lives. 2. Plan Take a look at what is happening in our church and through our various ministries. Are any of them your favorites (e.g., The Mad Hatters Ball, Guys Night, Disciple NOW, Chili Festival, etc.)? Is there a worship celebration coming up that you know would be meaningful (e.g., Blue Christmas, the adult baptism by immersion service, Fourth of July, etc.)? Is your LifeGroup a source of life and community for you? Begin looking for the opportunity to ask the person God is placing on your mind to join you. 3. Act When God gives you the opportunity TAKE IT! I dare you! Take a risk! Make a call! Send an invitation! And if they accept, outdo yourself in showing hospitality. Meet them at the door. Introduce them to your friends. Introduce them to a pastor. Give them the best possible experiencejust like you would like someone to do for you or someone you love.
So are you willing to risk? I dare you. NoI triple-dog-dare you. During the month of August, we are issuing the BIG Daredaring you to risk showing and sharing Jesus by encouraging you to invite at least ten people to join you for worship or some other church activity during the remaining months of 2012. Who knowsperhaps someday someone will write and thank you for taking a risk for them. Blessings,

LEAD PASTOR JEFF GREENWAY

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MY GOD STORY
THIS LITTLE LIGHT OF MINE, IM GONNA LET IT SHINE by Judy Horn

My God-Story is how two pastors and one young man became Gods vessels to me. Their messages changed my life.
Some time ago, Pastor Jeff Greenway encouraged the church family to read, Just Walk Across the Room by Bill Hybels. That book really got under my skin. So, I decided to ask God for a heart thats in tune with the Holy Spirit, the courage to venture out of my comfort zone and step into another persons life. God kept whispering into my ear, Start walking. I am with you my daughter. About 10 years ago, Pastor David Wells gave a great message at an Emmaus Gathering entitled, The Prayer of Jabez found in I Chronicles 4:10 Oh that you would bless me indeed and enlarge my territory, your hand would be with me and that you keep me from evil that I may not cause pain. Wow, those words literally knocked the socks off of meand still do! Every morning, before my feet hit the floor, I pray the Jabez Prayer. Then, I get up and look for the socks that God knocked off me yesterday. This prayer prepares me to wait and listen for how and when God is going
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to have me start walking and knocking my socks off. I call these God-appointments. One morning, I received a phone call from Pastor Craig at Crossroads Church, asking me to mentor a young man whoI hung up the phone and literally said to God, You want me to do what? I dont want to walk across the room that far just so you can enlarge my territory! Then, very softly, He whispered in my ear, My daughter, be still and know that I am God. I will bless you and My hand will be with you. Start walking. I obeyed! My God-appointment at Crossroads was with Al a young 36-year-old man who, for many years, experienced a horrific dark life on the streets. He has allowed me to share his God-story: I give God all the glory. God set me free from alcohol and drugs and cigarettes. I am 19 months off alcohol and drugs and 16 months off cigarettes. I turned everything over to God. I could not live that way no more. I grew up around alcohol and drugs and a lot of things that put so much pain on my heart and spirit. I just did not understand. I was so young, and I needed to escape. So, I escaped to the streets and went to jail over and over again. I was so lost that I thought that was how I was supposed to live.

I used to steal, lie and cheat. I would do whatever I had to do to get high or drunk. I even got shot in Texas when I was 16-yearsold. I moved to Ohio and thought my life would change. It got worse. I could not stop drinking, no matter what I tried. So, on October 27, 2010, I called on God; and God heard my cry. I cried out to God a lot of times, but did not mean it. In due time, my thoughts changed. I love God so much. God is so good all the time. I started to go to Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) Meetings at Dry Dock. One day, the door to Dry Dock was locked. I had my Bible in hand and had nowhere to go. It was cold outside. I heard a voice in my head that said, Start walking. So I walked down about 6 doors from Dry Dock, and I saw lots of bright lights shining like the stars in the sky. I looked through the windows, and I saw tables and some women inside. So, I opened the door and walked in. I asked if I could read my Bible and the women said, Yes. The women told me there was going to be dinner and Bible study. I smiled! On Wednesday nights, I now go to Crossroads and even have brought other people with me. I wanted to learn how to really pray. Pastor Craig introduced me to Judy. We prayerwalked, prayed together and for each other, and did a study together called Prayer 101.

My God Story continued from pg. 4 Judy (mom) kept nagging me, in a gentle and loving way, to go back to school and get my GED. I did not want to do this. She even gave me the phone number of the school. I did not call at first. Then, one day I called the school. Now I am in school. If I had not listened to God that cold and dark night and not walked and saw those women and the bright lights in a storefront called Crossroads, I would have missed the best opportunity of my life. Thank you, God, for Crossroads and all the wonderful people that volunteer and go there. Because of Crossroads, my life has changed. If you know of anyone who is going through a dark time in their life, tell them to try Crossroads. I guarantee that God will change their life from dark to light. I support Crossroads with all my heart! Praise God! - Albert Foster God certainly has a sense of humor. He was laughing the whole time when I thought I must be a special person in His eyes because He called me to mentor Al. If I only knew what was written on His agenda! Al was also sent on a God-appointment on the same day, same place and same time as my God-appointment. Al also got a calling from God to mentor a woman named Judy. Many changes need to take place in her life. Because of Crossroads, my life has changed! God has a very important part for you, you and you to play in the unfolding of the divine agenda of His appointments. Start walking and allow God to enlarge your territory, refuse to sit around and wait for someone else to do what God has called you to do! Let your light shine for Jesus! This little light of mine, Im going to let it shine

Parker Scholarship Winners Announced

The Reynoldsburg United Methodist Church Foundation and the Cecile Parker Medical Scholarship Endowment Selection Committee are pleased to announce this years recipients of the Parker Scholarships. Those selected were:

Alissa Murphy:

Ali will be attending Ohio University where she will study Communication Sciences and Disorders (Speech Language Pathology). Ali has been involved in WorkCamp, Bible studies and was a part of the youth group. In school, she was President of Key Club, Captain of the softball team and a member of the National Honor Society. She feels that her faith will be important for her as she works with elementary students to show them the potential God has for them.

Sara will be attending Mount Vernon Nazarene University where she will study pediatric nursing. Sara has been involved at church in WorkCamp, Vacation Bible School, serving in the nursery and playing bells. At school, she was involved in choir, Key Club, various sports and cheerleading. She feels that God is leading her in to this field and knows that her church family is also supporting her.

Sara Lynn Stallings: (no photo available)

Ashley Yost:

Ashley is in Graduate School at the Winkle College of Pharmacy at the University of Cincinnati. Ashley has been involved with WorkCamp, worked in child care and served as a counselor on the New Orleans Mission trip. She is a member of Kappa Psi Pharmaceutical Fraternity. Ashley feels that God has called her to this work and has been involved in many experiences to help her develop her skills to serve those in need of health care in the future.

Chimers, Bells, Puppets Gear Up For Fall

Our Chimer/Bell/Puppet programs are gearing up for an exciting season beginning in September. There is still room in all of our choirs/squads for additional performers, so please let Pat Pace know if you are interested: ppace@rumc.org; church extension 129; or 614751-7434 (home). No previous experience is necessary. Below are the ages and practices time for all our groups. Dont be left out in the cold; join us for fun, music, puppet antics and laughter!

Chimers (Grades 4-6): Wednesdays, 5:00-6:00pm Celebration Ringers (Grades 7-12): Sundays, 4:00-5:00pm Hands of God Puppet Squad (Grades 7-8): Sundays, 3:00-4:00pm Gods Puppet Squad (Grades 9-12): Sundays, 2:30-4:00pm
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The Kober Internship:

by Melissa Zimmerman, Kober Intern For nine months, I have been an intern at Reynoldsburg United Methodist Church thanks to the Kober Endowment. I have been given an invaluable opportunity to learn and grow while serving in ministry and I thank you, Reynoldsburg UMC family, for that opportunity! I will soon be starting my third and final year at the Methodist Theological School in Ohio, where I am studying to become an elder in the United Methodist Church. I am called to be the pastor of a church, and I have been working toward this goal for a long time. Just a little over a year ago, a friend told me to look at an advertisement for this internship, because he knew that this would probably be a great experience to prepare me to be a pastor. At his suggestion, I applied for the internship. I prayed and asked God to let me have the internship if it was where I was supposed to be. These many months have yielded for me some great experiences, and some important lessons. Early in my time here, I learned how to ask for money! I worked to find sponsors for the Chili Festival last fall. I called and spoke to business owners all over Reynoldsburg, told them about the outreach planned, and asked if they could help us in any way. Most were thrilled to support the community and the church! A little later, I did quite a bit of
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A Look Back

research into the hospitality practices of our church, other successful churches, and many unsuccessful churches. Not only did this teach me about hospitality as an important part of evangelism, but it also gave me the opportunity to make some recommendations that may show up in some form in the future. The best part of this internship, however, which has also been the most valuable, has been the work with SHARE Saturday at the Crossroads Church location on Brice Road. Pastor Brian Sweeney and several Reynoldsburg UMC members worked to fulfill a vision of a monthly outreach that fills real needs of community members. I was blessed to be able to work with him as we began this wonderful outreach. After a few months, when Pastor Brian left, the organization of SHARE Saturday fell on to my shoulders. During these last couple of months, my major project has been SHARE Saturday. Each month, I have been blessed to watch and help as God works in and through our volunteers to change lives and help neighbors in very real ways. I will not forget a womans healing tears because of a prayer said by a loving volunteer, a child jumping gleefully because of her new bike, a volunteer glowing as he speaks of the man he could help, a woman amazed that she can get into her house by a brand new

ramp, or a family getting groceries when they are not sure how they will have enough to eat. I cannot forget the young man clutching his books as if they are the most important thing in the world, the woman who knows she needs to pay attention to her blood sugar, or the small child simply being allowed to play with a truck on the floor. Surely the presence of the Lord is in this place! Without the wonderful work of volunteers and the donations from the congregation, nothing that I did would have made a difference. I was given the opportunity to learn and grow in ministry by working through SHARE Saturday. So, I thank you. I thank you who gave to the Kober Endowment so that I could be invited to come here to learn and serve. I thank you who worked with me in any way during these nine months. Nothing could have happened without you, and you have been my teachers. I thank you who have supported Reynoldsburg UMC in any way, making it the place that it is today. As I move to the next step in my journey, I will be serving as a pastor in Indiana. I will look back fondly upon my time here, remembering what I have learned and what has helped shape my future in ministry.

Summer WorkCamp
by Jayk hinze, Student intern

ummer time means a couple different things for the youth here at Reynoldsburg UMC. Obviously, it means freedom from the boredom that is school; but it also means that WorkCamp season has begun. Ever since 1982, groups of students with hearts for service chaperoned by loving adults travel to different locations in southern Ohio to complete service projects for less fortunate members of the community while having intense worship and fellowship in the evenings. This summer was no different as the youth geared up for Super WorkCamp. During this weeklong service trip, students and adults headed to Jackson, Ohio to show Gods love to this community through selfless acts of kindness. Watching how people react to the help that were giving them is totally awesome, says student Henry Hinze of his first WorkCamp experience. For the second year in a row, a portion of the students volunteered to help run a Vacation Bible School (VBS) for the Jackson community. In a similar manner to the way VBS is run here in Reynoldsburg, these students partnered with other volunteers from Christ United Methodist Church to show Gods love to the children of the community. This program is called Wacky Week and involved both a morning and afternoon session.

Some of the other service projects that occupied the students included building multiple wheelchair ramps and a privacy fence, repairing decks, and power washing and painting houses. Students also aided in the relief efforts from recent storms. Several downed trees and other debris were cleaned up. These different service opportunities gave students the chance to experience true servanthood in a variety of ways. While WorkCamps have been run out of Reynoldsburg UMC for quite some time now, this is only the second year of Super WorkCampa single week as opposed to the multiple WorkCamps that took place in the past. The idea of getting all of the youth together to serve as one body seemed much more appealing to Youth Pastor Tim Levert than having different groups of students serving at different times. And it obviously seems much more appealing to the students, as over eighty students and nearly twenty-five adults traveled to Jackson between July 7th and the 14th. In addition to Super WorkCamp, students who are entering their senior year of high school or are of college age traveled to Canada for International WorkCamp. This service-based trip gave young adults a chance to spread the word and love of God in a different setting than that to which they are accustomed. The week focused on following Gods plan through prayer and discernment of where in Canada to offer assistance.

ADULT BIBLE STUDY FALL LINEUP

As September nears, there will be a great selection of weekly Bible Studies to take individuals further in their walk with Christ. The discipleship team here at Reynoldsburg UMC recognizes that each person needs to be challenged in unique ways depending on where they are on their spiritual journeys.
From the moment we put our trust in Christ we become spiritual infants. When we begin to feel more secure in our faith and begin investing in others, we become spiritual adolescents. And then we reach the spiritual parent level where we move our focus from ourselves to mentoring others and bringing more spiritual seekers across the line of faith. We never stop growing in our faith. Being a part of a weekly Bible study is not only one of Reynoldsburg UMCs spiritual habits, but also a great way to develop honest friendships with other Christ followers. We encourage you, as you plan your fall schedule, to include a study that will challenge you. Below you will see a sample listing of some of the studies that will be offered this fall. You can find a complete listing and a sample copy of the fall lineup materials at the Adult Discipleship Table located in the tiled hallway downstairs. You can also sign up for these studies and register for childcare at rumc.org and click on Bible Studies. If you have any questions regarding any of these studies or about signing up, please contact
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Megan Mathias, Coordinator of Adult Discipleship Ministries at church extension 123 or e-mail mmathias@rumc.org.

In this study, you will find help to: Get off the performance treadmill Build your self-worth on Jesus, not others Trace and replace harmful emotions with Gods truth Discover why your quests for meaning have not brought happiness *This study is ideal for spiritual infants Facilitator: Tasha Levert Cost for your workbook: $12 Meeting Times: Wednesdays, 6:15-7:15pm, 9/19 - 11/14 (no class 10/31) Childcare: Available upon request

The Search for Significance

Do any of these characteristics describe you? Always having to achieve more Always thinking you need others approval Feeling unworthy of love and deserving of punishment Thinking you cannot change and are hopeless All of us have these thoughts occasionally, but if you think you are often feeling one or more of these symptoms, The Search for Significance study is for you.

Boundaries in Marriage
Learn when to say yes and when to say no to your spouse and to othersto make the most of your marriage. Only

when a husband and wife know and respect each others needs, choices, and freedom can they give themselves freely and lovingly to one another. Boundaries are the property lines that define and protect husbands and wives as individuals. Once they are in place, a good marriage can become better, and a less-than-satisfying one can even be saved. Drs. Henry Cloud and John Townsend, counselors and authors of the award-winning best-seller Boundaries, show couples how to apply the 10 laws of boundaries that can make a real difference in relationships. They help husbands and wives understand the friction points or serious hurts and betrayals in their marriageand move beyond them to the mutual care, respect, affirmation, and intimacy they both long for. Boundaries in Marriage helps couples: Set and maintain personal boundaries and respect those of their spouse Establish values that form a godly structure and architecture for their marriage Protect their marriage from different kinds of intruders Work with a spouse who understands and values boundariesor work with one who doesnt *This study is for married couples AND married individuals who attend without their spouse. **This study is ideal for spiritual infants Facilitator: Megan Mathias Cost for your workbook: $6 (couples can share), $9 for optional book Meeting Times: Wednesdays, 6:15-7:15pm, 9/5-10/24 Childcare: Available upon request

gratitude, criticism with love, doubt with faith, and rebellion with submission. *This study is ideal for spiritual infants Facilitator: Nancy Mapes Cost for your workbook: $15 Meeting Times: Thursdays, 6:30-8:30pm, 9/13-11/29 (no class 11/22) Childcare: Available upon request

Nehemiah: A Heart That Can Break

Nehemiahs heart was so broken for those in need that he left the comfort of his Persian palace to help them. Nehemiah gives real-life ways to put feet to your faith. Are you ready to let God break your heart for a hurting, lost world and move you in compassion to be the hands and feet of Jesus? *This study is ideal for spiritual adolescents Facilitator: Tammy Martin Cost for your workbook: $13 Meeting Times: Tuesdays, 9:30-11:30am, 9/18-11/6 Childcare: Available upon request

Jeremiah Part 1: Youve Forsaken Me: Repent and Return

Jeremiah, a prophet appointed by God, spoke a hard message to the people of his day. Its still Gods message today a call to listen to His Word. Heeding Jeremiahs message can bring healing and hope to all. *This study is ideal for spiritual parents Facilitator: Joyce Whippo Cost for your workbook: $21 Meeting Times: Mondays, 9:30-11:30am, 9/10-11/5 Childcare: Not available for this study

Some additional studies for the Fall whose details were not known at the time of this publication:

The Ragamuffin Gospel

Many believers feel stunted in their Christian growth. We beat ourselves up over our failures and, in the process, pull away from God because we subconsciously believe He tallies our defects and hangs His head in disappointment. Author Brennan Manning reminds us that nothing could be further from the truth. The Father beckons us to Himself with a furious love that burns brightly and constantly. Only when we truly embrace Gods grace can we bask in the joy of a Gospel that enfolds the most needy of His flockthe ragamuffins. *This study is ideal for spiritual adolescents Facilitator: Gail Clark Cost for your workbook: $10 Meeting Times: Mondays, 6:30-8:00pm, 9/10-11/19 Childcare: Not available for this study Crazy love by Francis Chan Wild at heart by John Eldredge

Lord, Change My Attitude Before Its Too Late

Reverse the negativity that sabotages your happiness, and learn to foster attitudes that bring you joy! Author and Pastor James MacDonald shows how habitual thought patterns can be changednot overnight, but over time. Youll be amazed at what happens when you replace complaining with

every Mans Battle by Stephen Arterburn & Fred Stoeker

financial peace university by Dave Ramsey

REVIEW:

Vacation Bible School (VBS)

2012

Over 300 children attended Vacation Bible School (VBS) 2012 June 25th through 29th and learned what Jesus says about friends, how we should treat them and how we can keep them. Over 100 volunteers served in various roles to make the week fun and engaging. Some highlights to our week were: Energetic musicwe are still singing The Bug Song, The Prunie Song and Jesus, You are My Best Friend (we might sing them forever). We watched the DVD, You are Special, based on Max Lucados book of the same name. In the book, Eli, a woodcarver and God figureteaches Punchinello, one of His creations, that you are special because I made you. And I dont make mistakes. Now, thats good stuff. Snacks and gamesnuf said. A team of Jesus-lovin teens who presented skits every day in Bible Story time. Preschoolers learning how to operate cans of whip cream. (Tracy would recommend families of VBS preschoolers not purchase this grocery item for several years. Lets just say it wasnt used for its intended purpose.)
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Flat Jesus, based on the childrens book, Flat Stanley, was at VBS. Kids colored and cut out Flat Jesus and then took Him on their daily adventures. Families were encouraged to take pictures of their outings with Him. One Flat Jesus made it all the way to Afghanistan and another to China. Jesus is always with us, and He is everywhere! Bouncy houses on Thursday, water day on Friday. These were surely good nappin days. (Youre welcome, parents!) Closing event on Friday despite the weather. Not even a storm can stop us from worshipping our amazing God! And the biggest highlightover 300 kids heard about Jesus and how He wants to be their BFF (best friend forever)! The VBS offering of $896.06 half of which will go to the Mid-Ohio Food Bank, and the other half to Meds and Food for Kids. Many thanks to the volunteers both the behind-the-scenes and frontline servants who made the week a success. Thank you to the church family for supporting Childrens Ministries programs including VBS which allow us to show kids that Jesus is our comforter, our friend, our Saviorand that learning about Him is super fun!

FALL 2012 CHILDRENS PROGRAMMING STARTS WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 19

5:00-6:00pm Chimers Bell Choir (Grades 4-6) 6:00-6:40pm Christs Kids Choir (Kindergarten through 2nd grade) 6:00-6:40pm Kids Club (3rd and 4th grade) 6:00-6:40pm Rt. 56 Wednesday (Grades 5-6) 6:45-7:30pm Rockin Disciples Choir (3rd through 6th grade) 6:45-7:30pm Kids Club (Kindergarten through 2nd grade) Room 103 Room 229 Student Ministries Room Room 226 Room 229 Student Ministries Room

Childcare will be offered on Wednesday nights for children ages birth through pre-Kindergarten whose parents are in the Pastors Study or who are in an Adult Bible Study that meets from 6:15 to 7:15 pm. Children who attend Kids Club and then Childrens Choir (or vice versa) will be escorted from one program to the other by a leader. The parent does not need to leave their study to take a child from one program to the other. However, if a child is only attending Kids Club or only attending Childrens Choir (but not attending both), the parent will need to pick him or her up at the end of the programming.

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MISSIONS UPDATE

GREETINGS FROM ROMANIA

For Samuel, the same, your support helped him to have only a part-time job, and he is able to go and minister in the villages where he is experiencing great results. He holds Sunday morning services in the village of Micesti where Pastor Matt and his family started the "Way of Faith Church. Every Monday, Samuel is out in one of the villages around Micesti were he is doing evangelism work and also visits the people. He will start two home groups in two new villages. All this was possible because he was able to be free from work two days a week and to go and be in those villages. Another great thing that we see happening after 10 years of prayer is that we have a van for the church! This will help us to minister in the villages in a more effective way and will help us to do some mission trips in Romania and in other countries. Samuel will be able to bring people from the villages to the church in the city and also will be able to take people to Micesti for the Sunday morning services. So these are some of the great things that we were able to accomplish because of your help, and your desire to be partners with us in the work of God in Romania. Some of those things are a help for us not only for this time, but also for the future. We are grateful for your faithfulness and also for the team from USA that are visiting us and helping us in some of the projects that we have. The Way of Faith UMC of Romania and I as the pastor of this church thank you for your support, your love, and your faithfulness. Pastor Rare Calugar

Partners in Christ: Its so good to know that we have brothers and sisters in Christ that are making history in Romania simultaneously with us, as the first United Methodist Church (UMC) in the history of Romania. Last year, when Pastor Jeff was here together with Pastor Matt Elliott and a group from Reynoldsburg, it was the first step that we made together in this vision for Romania. For some of our people, this visit counted a lot in their decision to become members in the UMC. From that time until now, your support has helped us to accomplish more than we dreamed. First, for me as the pastor of this church to be able to go and study theology in a Methodist Seminary is something amazing. Your support for a part of my salary gives me this opportunity to be free from a fulltime job that I had before and to concentrate to study.
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HAITI UPDATE
by Dave Pagura, Missions Committee Chair
A Vacation Bible School (VBS) mission trip had originally been scheduled for July 21-28. Due to inadequate numbers of volunteers to perform the responsibilities on this trip that would be at a level we have come to expect, the Missions Committee decided to cancel the July VBS trip. During the recruitment for volunteers to participate in this trip, two clear messages were cited as reasons people could not go: first, the cost ($1,400 per person, primarily due to airfare) and, second, scheduling (primarily summer travel schedules). While we are not able to control neither peoples busy schedules nor the rising cost of airfare, your Missions Committee is looking into ways to make mission trips more affordable. We will continue our commitment to serve the city of Duplan, Haiti with a construction trip scheduled for October 13-20. Contact Dave Pagura, Missions Committee Chair at missions@rumc.org if interested in participating. We are also looking at additional mission destinations that are closer and thereby affordable while keeping our two objectives in mind: building relationships and wanting to go deep wherever we serve. Check the weekly bulletin for further announcements regarding future mission activities.

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Reynoldsburg United Methodist Women

Annual May Breakfast
The Reynoldsburg United Methodist Womens annual May Breakfast was held May 15 and was well attended. The current Life Members were recognized and presented with a carnation. The new Life Members were announced during the meeting and they were presented with a framed certificate from The Womens Division of the General Board of Global Ministries, The United Methodist Church and lapel pin signifying their Life Member status. This years new Life Members are: Shirley High, Phyllis Apple, Roslee Motsinger and Joyce Whippo. Along with the presentation of Life Members, Patty Huston-Holm spoke about the mission field and her work with women in Mukano, Uganda. Patty used the fee Reynoldsburg UMW gives to unit meeting speakers to purchase new clothing for Damile, a student she works with in Uganda.

Buckeye Day!
Reynoldsburg United Methodist Women will be selling homemade Buckeye Candy on September 23. This is a new fundraiser with all proceeds going to missions. Look for more information closer to football season!

20th Annual Spaghetti Supper

The 20th Annual Spaghetti Supper was held on May 5 sponsored by the Hannah Circle of Reynoldsburg United Methodist Women (UMW). There were 234 tickets sold to attendees for the event. The net profit from the Spaghetti Supper was $1,433.08. Proceeds were used for the churchs mission work in Columbus, the state of Ohio, in the U.S., and for several location overseas (Haiti, Japan and Romania). Hannah Circle would like to thank all the ladies and gentlemen of the church that assisted them with donations of money, time, food and talents to make this event such a huge success. Hannah ladies would also like to thank the corporate sponsors of the event: Giant Eagle Stores on East Broad Street and in Pickerington, the Anderson Home Store on Brice Road, Meijer on East Broad Street, the Kroger stores at Main and Taylor, in Old Town Reynoldsburg and also in Pickerington. During the event, Tom and Jan Gratz were recognized by the Hannah Circle. Tom and Jan had served as the chairs for this event for its first 18 years it was held. A card and bouquet of pink roses were given to Jan by Linda Marx , the chair for the past two years. This year was the last year for this event as the ladies of Hannah Circle felt it was perfect to end it at the 20-year mark. The Circle is looking for future projects to support the mission work of the church. Thanks to all members of the church and the community who have so graciously and willingly supported this event over the years.
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in appreciation
Dear Reynoldsburg UMC, Thanks to all of you for the condolence cards and prayers for my son, Edward White. It helped to ease the pain. Your kindness will never be forgotten. I appreciated it so much. God bless all of you, Phyllis Cooper Dear Reynoldsburg Church Family, I want to thank our caring Church Family, especially Love Crafters, for the many cards and lovely flowers I received during my recent illness. Your thoughtfulness is much appreciated and has helped raise my spirits. Carol Bertram Dear Church Family, As you may know, my husband suffered a traumatic brain injury in March, and they say it may take years before he is hopefully able to function on his own and be back to himself. The love, prayers, cards, support and gifts we have received from you have been a blessing to us! Your kind words have lifted us in this difficult time, and there are not enough words to express how blessed we have been by you all! Thank you again for everything! God bless. Love, Julie, Mike & Cecilia Allen Dear Reynoldsburg UMC, On behalf of Mike Gallaghers children and grandchildren, I would like to thank you for the lovely funeral service and the meal that followed. It was greatly appreciated by all. Sincerely, Kathleen Gallagher Arnett Dear Reynoldsburg UMC, The family of Dee Smith wishes to thank Pastor Maxine, the ministers, church family and many friends for your prayers, visits, cards, love and concerns during her three-anda-half-year illness. Thank you, Dick Smith & family
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DID YOU KNOW:

Reynoldsburg UMW donated more than 170 United Methodist Committee On Relief (UMCOR) Health Kits to add to the 14,000+ kits collected at the West Ohio Annual Conference held at Lakeside.

Upcoming Events
Fall Unit Meeting September 18 Buckeye Day September 23 Fall Bazaar October 20 Cookie & Candy Sale December 15
Look for more information in the church bulletin for information about these events.

Roger Greenawald lives at 7707 Eastwood Street in Reynoldsburg. Roger is retired. He attends the 11:00am service with his wife Sheila, who joined in 2006. They have two grown children. Roger joins by transfer from East Columbus Christian Church.

New Members
Larry and Shirley Hayes live at 6016 Eiger Dr. in Columbus. Larry is retired and a veteran of the U.S. Air Force. Shirley is also retired. Larry enjoys golf and fishing, while Shirley enjoys quilting and sewing. They both enjoy reading, travel and especially spending time with family. They attend the 9:15am service and join by transfer from St. Paul United Methodist in Stoutsville. Phyllis Pini lives at 8000 Truman Trail in Reynoldsburg. Phyllis works for Huntington National Bank and enjoys reading, exercising, swimming, and volunteer work. She has three daughters and has attended here for five years. Phyllis attends the 9:15am service and joins by profession of faith. Brian and Lauren Printy live at 9262 Pimlico Place in Pickerington. Both are teachers Brian for Pickerington, and Lauren for Southwest Licking. Brian enjoys coaching football, Lauren enjoys reading. They both value their time with family and friends and being outdoors with their dog. They attend the 9:15am service and join by profession of faith. Lane and Jackie Wood live at 403 Scandia St. in Blacklick. Lane works for the State of Ohio (in Information Technology), and Jackie is a Human Resources manager for Kohls. They have a son, Owen, who will be entering Kindergarten in the fall. Lane enjoys woodworking and landscaping/ gardening, and Jackie enjoys singing and reading. They attend the 11:00am service and join by profession of faith.

Phyllis Plear lives at 2709 Schaarf Dr. in Columbus. Phyllis is currently unemployed and is a veteran of the U.S. Air Force. She attends the 9:15am service and joins our church by transfer from First AME Zion Church.

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SUN

MON

TUE
1

WED
2

THU
3

FRI
4

SAT

AUGUST

6 SpringHill Day Camp

7 SpringHill Day Camp

8 SpringHill Day Camp

9 SpringHill Day Camp

10 SpringHill Day Camp

11

Emmaus Gathering 12 Baptism

Immersion Service Discover Reynoldsburg Workshop Discover Spiritual Rhythms Workshop

13

14

15

16

17

18 SHARE Saturday McCurdy Mission Trip

19 McCurdy Mission Trip

20 McCurdy Mission Trip

21 McCurdy Mission Trip

22 McCurdy Mission Trip

23 McCurdy Mission Trip

24 McCurdy Mission Trip

25 McCurdy Mission Trip

26

27

28

29

30

31

SUN

MON

TUE

WED

THU

FRI

SAT
1 Junior High Late Night

SEPTEMBER

2 Senior High Lock Out

3 Labor Day (church offices closed)

4 Emmaus Gathering

8 Fusion Cedar Point Trip

9 Discover Reynoldsburg Workshop Discover Your SHAPE Workshop 16

10

11

12

13

14

15 SHARE Saturday

17

18

19 Childrens Programming Resumes

20

21

22 Reynoldsburg Chili Festival

23 30

24

25

26

27

28

29

SUN
1

MON

TUE
2 Emmaus Gathering 3

WED
4

THU
5

FRI
6

SAT

OCTOBER

7 Rt. 56 Bonfire

10

11 Mens Walk To Emmaus #70

12 Mens Walk To Emmaus #70

13 Mens Walk To Emmaus #70

Haiti Mission Trip

14 Mens Walk To Emmaus #70

Haiti Mission Trip

15
Haiti Mission Trip

16
Haiti Mission Trip

17
Haiti Mission Trip

18
Haiti Mission Trip

19
Haiti Mission Trip

20 UMW Bazaar
SHARE Saturday Haiti Mission Trip

21 Discover 22 Reynoldsburg Workshop Discover Your Life Mission Workshop 28 29

23

24

25

26 Senior High Rock-Rap-tober

27

30

31 Halloween (no Childrens Programming)

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REYNOLDSBURG
UNITED METHODIST CHURCH
1636 Graham Road Reynoldsburg, OH 43068 614-866-5864 rumc.org