Columbus United Methodist Church

222 S. Dickason Blvd. Columbus, WI 53925

September, 2011

In This Issue
Going to India Enough Classes Usher Schedule Anniversaries Birthdays Scripture Readers Fellowship Time Schedule Mission Offering Rummage Sale Brie Sheard in Mission Upcoming Sermon Topics Wish List News & Notes: Children & Youth Ministries September 11th Ten Years Later Monthly Free Meal Connecting the Church in Mission Enough: Discovering Joy Through Simplicity & Generosity Advanced Lay Servant Ministry Course Depression Recovery Pork Chop Dinner Book Sale Local Mission Discretionary Fund Calendar
Our purpose is to: Follow Jesus Together We do this by: Opening our hearts to people and to Christ in worship and fellowship, so that we know God and each other more fully, Opening our minds to deepen our Christian faith, understand our heritage, and think together to solve common problems, and Opening our doors in welcome and hospitality, even as we go out of those doors to invite people into God's church and be in service to all of our neighbors everywhere.

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The Voice
Going to India
Its not just a vacation, its not a mission trip, its not just visiting a friend, and its not just a learning tour but it certainly is a trip to celebrate our 25th anniversary (a little late). At the end of October and the beginning of November, my wife, Marianne, and I are going to India. Our trip will be coordinated by Satish Gyan, a retired pastor of the Methodist Church in India denomination (autonomous but related to the UMC). You may remember Satish from the time he preached here in Columbus in 2006. Satish will also be our companion and guide on the trip as we attend his nephews wedding, go to the ancient city of Varanasi, and perhaps meet the Bishop in Delhi. We will also visit some Christian missions and churches. What Im most looking forward to is meeting Satishs brother, Hem Gyan, with whom Ive corresponded. Hem is just my age (and pants size Ill bring some to him). Hem lives in a rural village thats not on the map in the foothills of the Himalayas, and serves a congregation in his village and several preaching points in yet more rural areas. Hem has invited me to preach in his church. I know that well get an education in Hinduism and Sikhism and Islam. Satish taught comparative religions in Seminary. Satish also served as the head of a local Christian charity that empowered the poor in the city of Raipur, so well see India from the perspective of one who has worked with the very poor. I plan to bring home photos and stories. I hope the trip will enrich my ministry here at Columbus United Methodist Church. And Im reminded that the United Methodist Church has opportunities for travel and learning and mission. You could go with our Bishop to the Holy Land on her next trip, and talk to Israelis and Palestinians as well as see the sights. You could go almost anywhere

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in the country and to many countries of the world and build churches, teach Vacation Bible School, repair homes, and more by going on a trip with Volunteers in Mission. Marianne and I have done so, and it has been very rewarding. Let me know if you have a desire to do some travel in mission or for learning. The opportunities are many. Pastor Jim

Enough Classes
It's September! And with the falling leaves and fresh apples and cider -- Yes, we will be passing a "fresh" clipboard once again. Why another clipboard??? This time it's to invite you to participate in the study of a little book called "Enough" written by Adam Hamilton. The members of our congregation who have already read this book praise it for its practical message of contentment, simplicity, and generosity -- a realization valued and observed by the generations of our parents and grandparents. You are invited to come join the classes beginning in late September. Watch the bulletin for more details!

The Voice is the monthly newsletter of the Columbus United Methodist Church. Please send all correspondence to: PO Box 392, Columbus, WI 53925-0392. Pastor: Jim Cotter Secretary: Wanda Guenther Church Office......920-623-3625 (Office Hours: Monday thru Friday from 10-3) Pastors home phone......920-623-9641 E-Mail: columbusumc@wisconsinumc.org Website: ............................. www.cbusumc.com Pastors E-Mail: jcotter@wisconsinumc.org

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September Usher Schedule

Sept. 4th: Sept. 11th: Sept. 18th: Don Pritchard, Fred & Della Dartt and Ann Ehlenfeldt Dan & Patsy Roe and Carol Balfanz Stuart Smith and Wanda Guenther; 1 Volunteer Needed Philip & Peggy Waterworth and Jan Bolan 2 3 5 7 10 11

Happy September Birthdays!

Dakota Landphier Ruth Marks Heather Henke Amanda Wagner Lynne Fuller Aiden Arians Karen Plantenberg 12 Karrie Griese Hyacinth Lange 13 Vincent Bodie 15 Fred Dartt Faye Venden 18 George Jordan 19 Marlo Gaddo Michael Toth 20 Shelby Lewis 23 Mary Sramek 24 Kelsey Griese 25 Katy Caswell Mary Lou Swain Lorna Will 27 David Weisman 28 Carl Cotter

Sept. 25th:

Scripture Readers for the Month of September

September 4th: September 11th: September 18th: September 25th: Ann Ehlenfeldt Mary Baker Patsy Roe Winfred Mandody This issue of the Voice is sponsored by Shirley Farr in memory of Russell Farr

September Anniversaries
9/2 9/8 9/9 9/10 9/20 9/22 9/24 George & Rita Jordan Stuart & Lois Smith Peter & Lynda Griese David & Erin Weisman Doug & Sharon Caldwell Danny & Genese Brisky Doug & Angela Landphier Brian & Brenda Hamilton Gwenn & Sue Gmeinder

Fellowship Time Schedule September Volunteers

September 4th: September 11th: September 18th: September 25th: Dave & Judy Stricker Jim & Judy Vale The Plantenberg Family Rhonda Miller

The Voice
September Mission Offering
The Mission offering for September will go to support our Missionary in Zambia, Paul Webster. Here is a recent inspirational message from him: CAST YOUR BREAD UPON THE WATERS, FOR AFTER MANY DAYS YOU WILL FIND IT AGAIN. ECCLES. 11:1 WHOEVER WATCHES THE WIND WILL NOT PLANT; WHOEVER LOOKS AT THE CLOUDS WILL NOT REAP. ECCLES. 11:4 SOW YOUR SEED IN THE MORNING, AND AT EVENING LET NOT YOUR HANDS BE IDLE, FOR YOU DO NOT KNOW WHICH WILL SUCCEED, WHETHER THIS OR THAT, OR WHETHER BOTH WILL DO EQUALLY AS WELL. ECCLES. 11:6 My message is that we never live in perfect and stable times. The current Great Recession is a reminder of this. Yet, as Christians we are enjoined to invest and to give so that the Holy Spirit can multiply those gifts and bring us an even greater reward. At Mujila Falls, dedicated Christians and Congregations have been casting their bread upon the waters for ten years. I am here to report that your bread is returning to you in saved lives, surplus food that can be sold to support families, better health, lower infant mortality, longer life expectancy, and new hope that the land of Africa can support people in an abundant way. Along the way, people are coming to Christ as we demonstrate His love through our work. It isnt always easy to be giving to mission. We experience mission burn out. But when we realize just how bountiful has been the return on our investment at Mujila Falls, we can rejoice in the miracle that is Gods promise of abundance and multiplied returns expressed so long ago.

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It has been a great privilege to serve as an official missionary with the United Methodist Church for the past 19 years. I continue to be very proud of the work our denomination has embarked upon around the world to save lives and uplift and empower people. There are no glass ceilings in the United Methodist Church. All can aspire to become the people that God has intended them to be and to achieve abundance for themselves and their families regardless of color, gender, or creed. I have been informed by the GBGM that I will be returning to Mujila Falls Agriculture Centre for another three year term of service. It has been a long journey, but God has been there every step of the way, and with Gods blessing we will continue to be led. I thank the many congregations that have made all of the work possible. I humbly request that you continue to support our work into the future. Your servant in Christ, PAUL WEBSTER

Rummage Sale
We will have a rummage sale this fall on October 14th and 15th. Its time to start rounding up all of those items that you can no longer use. Tim Hoffman and Roger Venden will be available to pick up heavier items. If you have questions about whether we can use an item, please call Tim Hoffman (6232830home; 623-5880work) or the church office. Watch future bulletins and newsletters for more information.

The Voice
Upcoming Sermon Topics
Sunday, September 4:

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Holy Communion, Jeremiah 31:31-34, John 20:24-29, Romans 12:1-3 Finding Christ at the Center: Conversion, a new heart

Sunday, September 11th: The 10th anniversary of World Trade Center Psalm 123:1-4, Matthew 9:9-13, James 2:8-13 Finding Christ at the Center: Mercy Rally DayFirst Day of Regular Sunday School Sunday, September 18th: 1 Corinthians 1:10-13, Matthew 18:18-22, Isaiah 54:9-17 Finding Christ at the Center: Seeing All Sides Sunday, September 25th: Ecclesiastes 5:8-12, Matthew 16:24-28, Matthew 4:4-11, 1 Timothy 6:6-10 Enough: When Dreams Become Nightmares 9 a.m.Baptism of Molly Elske

The Wills & Gifts Committee of our church is pleased to present you this Wish List. If there are any additional items you believe should be on this list, call the church office at 623-3625. These are opportunities for special giving. Columbus United Methodist Church Wills & Gifts Wish List Bulletin Sponsor VOICE Sponsor Donations to Building Fund for new library/ music room roof Ceiling tiles and insulation for library/music room Child care for Praise Band Rehearsals Wellness FundCounseling New Advent Candle Wreath Stand Snowblower Light-weight tables for the sanctuary Youth Ministry Video Kit/Curriculum Copies of Hymns (100words and notes) for Projection $200.00 $200.00 $15.00 per week Various Amounts $15.00 per week $50.00 per month

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September News & Notes: Children and Youth Ministries Coordinator

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Sunday School Rally Sunday is September 11th !! Students will be sent special invitation post cards. We encourage each child to bring a friend to this special first day of our school year rotation Sunday School format! Our theme for this day will be PEACE! There will be special music, crafts and activities for children pre-k through 6th grade. Spread the word!!! Family Friendly Friday Film is September 9th at 7 pm Join us as we present VeggieTales- A Snoodles Tale!! This evening will be a Special Event with CRAFTS, ACTIVITIES, and a very yummy snack !! Bring a friend. Volunteer to help with crafts, activities, serving or cleaning up. We appreciate your help. Vacation Bible School!! This special three day event was held on August 22, 23 and 24th. WOW!!!! 51 children attended this marvelous event!! The Adventure Day Camp portion was attended by 26 students. It was a wonderful outreach to the children and families of our community! Your generosity made this possible. Snack time in the morning for 50 children and the 9 adults who served as teachers, assistants, and kitchen crew as well as the 6 high school children who helped where needed was quite a production. Add to that lunch and afternoon snack for 35 and you have an idea of the behind the scenes operation!! The classes were great! The Parables came to life in games, Crafts, and Drama! The students learned that Jesus makes a difference in our life everyday! Thanks to the many whose financial support, food and supplies, time and talent made it possible. Thanks to our teachers. Pastor Jim, Dawn Balfanz ( with much help from daughter Alyssa), and Anna Ehrke as well as their assistantsJulie Jensen, Susan Williams and Patsy Roe. Mike Toth and Peggy Goetsch created wonders in the kitchen ( Brown Bag Bistro for this week!) with great assistance from Clara and Laurel Goetsch.. We appreciate Stephanie Pellett who came at the last minute to work with our 3 &4 year old children. We are most grateful to Jennie Prietz and Brittnie who assisted in many areas!! A special Thank You to teens Tara Medina, Alaryana Lipke-Randle and friend Brenna who pitched in wherever asked. Thanks to Joe Kelly who ran the sound booth for opening Worship and for the afternoon film for Adventure camp!! God blessed us with you all!! ..Continued from Ann Weems Reaching for Rainbows is the following which I think expresses the joy at what has been made possible this past week! I celebrate the times when the church is the church, When we are Christians, When we are living, loving, contributing. Gods children- I celebrate that we are called Gods children even when we are in hiding. I celebrate love- the moments when the you is more important than the I. I celebrate the perfect love---the cross, the Christ, loving in spite of, giving without reward. God bless you!! Love, Mary Baker

The Voice
September 11th Ten Years Later: Our Commitment to Peace & Justice
On Saturday, September 10th, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., there will be a workshop with Dr. Sam Richards and Dr. Laurie Mulvey, co-directors of World in Conversation Project at Penn State University. The workshop will be held at the Islamic Society of Milwaukee Community Center. How far have we come in our relationships since September 11th? And what are the challenges ahead of us? Join in the conversation as the last decade is discussed and what work is ahead of us in Wisconsin to express our common commitment to peace and justice. Lunch will be provided (suggested donation is $10.00.) Registration is free and open to the public. Advance registration forms and instructions are available online at: Www.wichurches.org/calendar/event-list/ or call 608-837-3108.

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Connecting the Church in Mission

You are invited to a statewide celebration of the unparalleled services provided by our many mission ministries and outreach activities within the Wisconsin Conference UMC and beyond. The celebration is free and will be at four different locations. Thomas Kemper, the General Secretary of the General Board of Global Ministries, will be the keynote speaker. See firsthand how your apportionment giving is working to support these worthy causes. For more information, call Deborah Thompson at 888-240-7328.

October 23rd at 4:00 p.m.

Eau Claire Chapel Heights UMC Call 715-835-5181 for reservations

October 24th at 5:30 p.m.

Appleton St. James UMC Call 920-991-0548 for reservations

October 25th at 5:30 p.m.

Monthly Free Meal
Several members of our church are interested in offering a monthly free meal to those in the community who would find it helpful. Wed want to offer it at the end of the month, when money for many families gets low. If you are interested in the idea, and would like to participate, please contact Pastor Jim or Mike Toth (920-296-3403). Elm Grove Community UMC Call 414-271-5080 for reservations

October 26th at 5:30 p.m.

Madison Asbury UMC Call 608-837-0056 for reservations

Bishop Linda Lee Visits the Nicolet/Winnebago Region

Bishop Linda Lee will visit The Family Church, 2318 American Drive, Neenah, Wisconsin, on Sunday, September 11th, from 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. The theme will be Building Beloved Community. Bishop Lee will speak but the day will be interactive. Congregations and circuits are being invited to witness on the theme. Please call our church office at 623-3625 by Tuesday, September 6th, if you are planning to attend.

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Enough: Discovering Joy Through Simplicity and Generosity

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Stress. Anxiety. Fear. These words capture well the state of mind of many of us in America today. We have witnessed dramatic market losses, the collapse of the worlds largest insurance company, and many bankruptcies and mergers. Every day seems to bring another piece of economic uncertainty. A recent survey found that over three in four Americans are stressed about the economy and their personal finances. Half were worried about providing for their familys basic needs. Over half of respondents reported feeling angry and irritable, and reported lying awake at night worried about this. The report concludes that, The declining state of the nations economy is taking a physical and emotional toll on people nationwide.1 Join us in worship for four weeks starting September 25 for a sermon series entitled Enough: Discovering Joy Through Simplicity and Generosity. Our nation is experiencing what many have described as the American Nightmare. Increasing consumer debt, declines in savings, lower income growth, and a volatile stock market are all a part of our economic insecurity. We have lived in a society that tells us you deserve it now, whether or not we can afford it or really even need it. All of us have struggled with these issues at one time or another. They are important issues that we cannot ignore. This is why we will be having a church-wide study on the theme of enough, using both books and a DVD. During this time we will explore what the Bible teaches us about financial management through corporate worship and small group study. Well hear expert advice and stories about what others have learned by working through financial challenges. Each week we will provide you with some practical tools you can use to assess your financial situation and develop a financial plan with a biblical foundation. At the conclusion of the emphasis, we will have the opportunity to make personal commitments of our offerings to God through our church in the coming year. We will consecrate these commitments in the worship service on two consecutive Sundays (see the schedule that follows). I hope you will join us in the coming weeks as we look at how we can manage our financial resources and truly experience simplicity, generosity, and joy. Enough Schedule of Events: September 18-22 Enough Small-group Introductory Sessions September 25 When Dreams Become Nightmares Enough Small-group Sessions September 25-29 October 2 Wisdom and Finance Enough Small-group Sessions October 2-6 October 9 Cultivating Contentment Enough Small-group Sessions October 9-13 October 16 Defined by Generosity Enough Small-group Sessions October 16-20 Sunday, October 23 Consecration Sunday 1 Sunday, October 30 Consecration Sunday 2 Sunday, November 6 - Celebration Sunday Results Celebration and Consecration of Next Years Ministry Commitments 1 Eight Out of Ten Americans Stressed Because of Economy, by Madison Park, from CNN.com, October 7, 2008; http://www.cnn.com/2008/HEALTH/conditions/10/07/economic.stress/index.html.

The Voice
Advanced Lay Servant Ministry Course
An Advanced Lay Servant Ministry Course will be held on Saturday, October 22 & Saturday, October 29, from 10:00 am 3:00 pm at the Columbus United Methodist Church. The cost is $8 which includes the text, Lay Speakers Lead Small Groups, and shipping and mailing costs. The book will be mailed to you prior to the first class. The leader for this class will be Patsy Roe, Winnebago Lay Servant Ministry Coordinator. Bring your own lunch. The deadline for registering is Monday, October 3rd. Checks can be made payable to: Nic/Win Regional Office, 1500 N. Casaloma Dr., STE. 409, Appleton WI 54913

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Pork Chop Dinner Saturday, October 8, 4-7 PM

The Columbus United Methodist Church will host their annual Pork Chop Dinner on Oct. 8, 2011. Tickets are $9.50 ($5.00 kids 10 & under; kids 2 and under are free). The menu will consist of grilled pork chops, au gratin potatoes, vegetable, applesauce, rolls and dessert. Proceeds will go to our missionary in Zambia, Paul Webster, to help him continue his wonderful work. We are still looking for volunteers, to cook, serve and clean up on Friday the 7th and Saturday the 8th. Please call Bonnie Morton at 608-617-4185. We Need You!

Depression Recovery
Get your life back with the Depression Recovery Program. Learn how to:

Identify depression and its causes Overcome depression through positive lifestyle choices Eat for optimal brain function and improve brain function Defeat depression through right thinking Achieve peak mental performance

Find out if this program is right for you at a FREE orientation: Tuesday, September 6th, at 7:00 p.m. Wisconsin Academy N2355 Duborg Road, Columbus Register on Sept. 6th or by calling 920-350-9428 The program starts Tuesday, September 20th, at 7:00 p.m. at Wisconsin Academy. It consists of 8 weekly sessions meeting on Tuesday evenings.

Time to go through your personal library! We will be having a book sale along with the rummage sale on October 14th and 15th. Paperbacks will be 50 and hardcover will be $1.00. All proceeds will go toward the library ceiling tiles. Contact Kay Meyer at 623-2464 for book donations. Any genre of books will be accepted. Were also looking for a person to help out on the day of the sale and with some sorting beforehand. Due to limited shelf space in the library, we have done some removal of extra copies, unused and outdated books. If you have donated some books in the past and would like them returned, please contact Kay Meyer. Otherwise, those books will go on the book sale. Thank you to all that support our library.

The Voice
Local Mission Discretionary Fund
The Church Council and Finance Committee have approved a new fund to get set up for people who are in need in our community. This is not for transients, but for people that church members know. Donations may now be made to this fund, called the Local Mission Discretionary Fund (or just Discretionary Fund). The way the fund will be used is as follows: when the pastor is made aware of a need, he will contact the lay leader, and together they will make a decision on whether and how the fund will be used. That way the funds will be used with discretion (confidentiality) with thought about how much is to be given. There will be no more than $200 spent per occurrence. The Columbus-Fall River Food Pantry is one of the most important missions our church participates in. We are in charge of one or two rotations a year. It takes a lot of work and cooperation.

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This year, our rotation was in August. With the economy being what it is, more families are in need of help. This means that our volunteers who pass out the food have been at the food pantry from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. We just want to thank those people who volunteered to help this year (and in past years). Without your help, this important mission project wouldnt be possible. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts!

Congratulations to Jason and Brittany Salisbury on the birth of their daughter, Addison June. Addison was born on Thursday, August 11th. She weighed 9 lbs. 9 oz. and was 20 inches long. Addison has a big sister, Brianna.

I would like to thank everyone for their love, prayers, visits, cards, and gifts during my recent illness. It is times like that when I realize what a wonderful family we have at Columbus UMC. Thank you so much for all your support. Dan Roe

The Voice
Columbus United Methodist Church
PO Box 392 Columbus, WI 53925-0392
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NONPROFIT U.S. Postage PAID Columbus, WI 53925 Permit No. 1

Upcoming events you might want to know about!

Sunday, September 4th:

9:00 a.m.Traditional Worship/Communion 10:00 a.m.Fellowship Time 10:30 a.m.Sunday School 10:30 a.m.Contemporary Worship/Communion Monday, September 5th: Office ClosedLabor Day Friday, September 9th: 7:00 p.m.Family-Friendly Friday Night FilmVeggie Tale Event Night Saturday, September 10th & Saturday, September 17th 9:30 a.m.3:00 p.m.Advanced Lay Servant Ministry Course Sunday, September 18th: 9:00 a.m.Traditional Worship/Bring a Friend to Worship Sunday 10:00 a.m.Fellowship Time 10:30 a.m.Sunday School 10:30 a.m.Contemporary Worship/Bring a Friend to Worship Sunday Friday, September 23rd: 5:00 p.m.6:30 p.m.Free Community Meal Sunday, September 25th: 9:00 a.m.Traditional Worship/Baptism of Molly Elske 10:00 a.m.Fellowship Time 10:30 a.m.Sunday School 10:30 a.m.Contemporary Worship