Find out what's happening this month at Christ UMC!
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UNLESS THEY ARE SENT Jim Kinder, NewSong Pastor Overwhelmed. This one word describes how I felt talking to Jean Claude (a missionary) about the ministry needs in Cote d’Ivoire (Ivory Coast). Last year, we were able to partner with the United Methodist Church in Cote d’Ivoire to bring Living Water and clean water to the village of Gnangoussou through a project called Water for Life. Through your faithfulness, hundreds of people continue to hear the Gospel of Jesus Christ at Victory Methodist Church in Gnangoussou. On those same church grounds, they can receive clean water through the well we were able to provide. Recently, I asked Jean Claude about his greatest ministry needs. He shared with me that they are still in the process of building churches and clean water is a constant need. His wife Francine’s ministry to village women has opened an entirely new area of needs, but his greatest need is for transportation. Jean Claude is charged with planting new churches throughout Cote d’Ivoire which is a country approximately three times larger than the state of Alabama. While he lives in Abidjan, a large city with public transportation, most of his ministry takes place in the rural areas. For example, Gnangoussou is a three-hour drive from Abidjan. In order to minister in those areas, he has to rely on borrowed or rented vehicles. Once again, I believe God is calling us to make a difference in Cote d’Ivoire. This year, instead of focusing on an individual village, we are focusing on equipping Jean Claude and Francine so they can go into areas where Living Water is truly needed. Together we can make this happen! Our goal is to raise $20,000 to purchase a used 4 Wheel Drive SUV, titled in the name of the Methodist Church of Cote d’Ivoire for mission use by Jean Claude and Francine. On February 14, the first Sunday of Lent, we will distribute a 40-day prayer calendar and a small cardboard bank in the shape of a truck. We hope every family will take one of each. During the 40 days of Lent, we are asking families to pray for the ministry in Cote d’Ivoire and to contribute $1 per day. On Easter Sunday, we will collect the funds and celebrate what God is going to do with them. Any additional money raised will go into our Faith Promise Fund which funds other mission efforts of the church. The Apostle Paul reminds us in the book of Romans, “…How can anyone preach unless they are sent?” (10:15) Together we can help to send the Gospel to those who have not heard! Christ United Methodist Church | christumcmobile.com | 251.342.0462 February 2016
Transcript
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UNLESS THEY ARE SENTJim Kinder, NewSong PastorOverwhelmed. This one word describes how I felt talking to Jean Claude (a missionary) about the ministry needs in Cote d’Ivoire (Ivory Coast). Last year, we were able to partner with the United Methodist Church in Cote d’Ivoire to bring Living Water and clean water to the village of Gnangoussou through a project called Water for Life. Through your faithfulness, hundreds of people continue to hear the Gospel of Jesus Christ at Victory Methodist Church in Gnangoussou. On those same church grounds, they can receive clean water through the well we were able to provide.
Recently, I asked Jean Claude about his greatest ministry needs. He shared with me that they are still in the process of building churches and clean water is a constant need. His wife Francine’s ministry to village women has opened an entirely new area of needs, but his greatest need is for transportation.
Jean Claude is charged with planting new churches throughout Cote d’Ivoire which is a country approximately three times larger than the state of Alabama. While he lives in Abidjan, a large city with public transportation, most of his ministry takes place in the rural areas. For example, Gnangoussou is a three-hour drive from Abidjan. In order to minister in those areas, he has to rely on borrowed or rented vehicles.
Once again, I believe God is calling us to make a difference in Cote d’Ivoire. This year, instead of focusing on an individual village, we are focusing on equipping Jean Claude and Francine so they can go into areas where Living Water is truly needed.
Together we can make this happen! Our goal is to raise $20,000 to purchase a used 4 Wheel Drive SUV, titled in the name of the Methodist Church of
Cote d’Ivoire for mission use by Jean Claude and Francine. On February 14, the first Sunday of Lent, we will distribute a 40-day prayer calendar and a small cardboard bank in the shape of a truck. We hope every family will take one of each. During the 40 days of Lent, we are asking families to pray for the ministry in Cote d’Ivoire and to contribute $1 per day. On Easter Sunday, we
will collect the funds and celebrate what God is going to do with them. Any additional money raised will go into our Faith Promise Fund which funds other mission efforts of the church.
The Apostle Paul reminds us in the book of Romans, “…How can anyone preach unless they are sent?” (10:15) Together we can help to send the Gospel to those who have not heard!
Christ United Methodist Church | christumcmobile.com | 251.342.0462
February 2016
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Unless They Are Sent ................................coverAs I Prepare................................................ 2Adult Opportunities.......................................3Youth Ministry...............................................4Children’s Ministry........................................5 Recreation Ministry.......................................6A New Chapter: Prayer Services ....................7Ash Wednesday/Holy Week......................... 8Various Ministries.....................................9-10 New Members.............................................11Various Ministries..................................12-14February Calendar.......................................15Family Easter Experience...........................16
FEBRUARY 2016“The earnest prayer of a righteous
person has great power and produces wonderful results.”
-James 5:16b
AS I PREPARE...Psalm 90 reads “so teach us to number our days that we may get a heart of wisdom.” I think the spirit of this passage is that there is wisdom in realizing we don’t have an
unlimited number of days on this earth. Time, seemingly, really does fly by!
As I prepare to enter a new phase of my life, I’m very aware of how quickly the days go by. Surely it was just a few days ago that I announced I would retire in two years. Well, two years is now five months. But, these are five very important months!
I encourage you to be keenly focused in prayer for our church, our Bishop Paul Leeland, our District Superintendent Doug Pennington, our staff parish committee, and the entire decision-making process concerning the appointment of our new senior pastor in June. We certainly want to pray that God’s desire will prevail through this process. But, prayer is also about what happens to us as we pray. Prayer makes us more flexible and receptive to what God desires to do!
I’m very excited about the new leadership coming to Christ UMC! I don’t know who it will be. But, he or she will have my full support. And, if you keep praying, the new senior pastor will have your love and support also. That’s the power of prayer!
Prayerfully,
Worship Services
Can’t make it to church? Watch services online at christumcmobile.com/media
Join us for Food Truck Sunday on
FEBRUARY 28Christ UMC Pavillion area
Right after 10:40 a.m. services
We’ll have local food trucks parked by the Pavillion for you to purchase lunch and eat with your Christ UMC family!
Invite family & friends and have a great time eating together.
Participate in our Water For Life: Mobilize the Mission 40 Day ChallengeThis year, we are taking Water for Life to the streets. In this season of Lent, please support the work in Cote d’Ivoire through our prayers and our gifts. Our goal is to purchase a vehicle for the United Methodist Conference in Cote d’Ivoire for Jean Claude and Francine to use as they travel throughout Cote d’Ivoire sharing the Gospel of Christ.
Here is how you can participate:
n Pick up a truck bank and the 40 Days of Prayer Calendar on Sunday, February 14 and take it home.
n Follow our 40 Days of Prayer Calendar. (Download at christumcmobile.com/waterforlife)
n Each day as you pray, put $1 in the truck bank.
n Return the truck bank filled with your donation to the church on Easter Sunday, March 27.
For more information, visit christumcmobile.com/waterforlife
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WEDNESDAY STUDIESn HOW DOES THE METHODIST CHURCH WORK?Wednesday, February 3 | 7:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. | Hospitality Room | Led by Pastor Jeremy Steele | We will spend one evening exploring the basics of how the United Methodist Church makes decisions about everything from beliefs on scripture to how a pastor is selected and assigned to a church. This class will be very helpful for anyone who has questions about the process we will experience as we transition to a new senior pastor. Child care will be provided.
n PASTOR’S BIBLE STUDY: WALKING WITH THE PROPHETS Wednesdays | 6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. | Rm A-209 | Pastor Bobby Williams continues teaching on the Prophets of the Old Testament. The study will focus on the prophecies of the Messiah and their fulfillment, plus learning more about our personal relationship with our God. Bring your Bible. You may join the class at any time. Registration not required for this class.
Adult Bible Study
Opportunities
SUNDAY MORNING STUDIES FOR ADULTSThere are a variety of classes available for all ages and stages of life. The participants enjoy studying the Bible as well as Christian life topical studies. They also serve and fellowship together. For a complete list of times, locations, current study topics and group demographics, stop by one of our Information Desks or visit christumcmobile.com.
MOM’S BIBLE STUDY n Open Heart, Open Home by Karen MainsWednesdays | 9:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. | Parlor Led by Laura Steele | An open door, a hug, coffee brewing, dinner cooking in the oven... Christian hospitality is all of this—and more. Going beyond Martha Stewart-type hints, Mains’ Biblical approach to entertaining equips you with the skills to serve, rather than impress, and to reach out with the gospel in acts of love and acceptance. Contact Sonya Carson at [email protected] or 251.706.3365 to order a book and/or to register for child care.
LATIN AMERICA MISSION: CHRIST UNITED METHODIST WOMEN CIRCLELearning about the work of the church in mission to Latin America will be the focus of the mission study of the
Mobile District United Methodist Women in February. Christ United Methodist Women will join their UMW sisters at Springhill United Methodist Church from 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, February 20 to hear of the needs and ongoing programs of work in these poverty-stricken countries. Lunch will be provided. Please mark your calendar and plan to attend this very enlightening session. For more information contact Joyce Genz at 251.259.1675 or [email protected].
THE CIRCLES OF UNITED METHODIST WOMEN AT CHRIST UMC:
MARY & MARTHA MAIL CIRCLE1st of month @ www.mailcircle.net Vera Moore, Coordinator 251.581.4750 | [email protected]
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FEBRUARY ACTIVITIES n 13 | HANDS AND FEET YOUTH LOCAL MISSION | Visit at christumcyouth.com/hands-feet for details and registration.
n 19 | WOOKIE PROJECT – Calling All Nerds | 5:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. | 6th – 12th Grade | The Wookie Project is a gathering of nerds for a glorious night to show off your fandom. This is a charity event to raise money for an organization called Child’s Play that helps put video games in children’s hospitals around the country. We will have a Cosplay competition, nerdy board games, and a Super Smash Bros Wii U Tournament, and of course the nerdy decorations and prizes. Cost is $10. Early registration is required! Visit christumcyouth.com/nerdom for important information and registration. MARCH: SAVE THE DATEn 4-6 | HIGH SCHOOL NASHVILLE TRIPn 4-5 | CONFIRMATION RETREATn 6 | CONFIRMATION CELEBRATION n 11 | MS FUN NIGHT- Black Light Gym Night and Neon Costume Contest
STAY CONNECTED WITH USCheck in with us at Want to get text updates? Middle School text @CUMC to 475.282.2857High School text @HSGR to 475.282.2857Visit christumcyouth.com for all our events. Check out our new High School Blog at christumcyouth.com/hsblog
By Tyler Vittetoe, Middle School Minister Greetings in the name of Christ. We hope you are having a wonderful new year! This past month has been very special for our student ministry. We had over 100 students at our Jingle Jam Christmas party, and we are looking forward to a Spring semester filled with wonderful opportunities for students to grow in their faith.
A highlight of this past month was the formation of our new High School Student Leadership Team (SLT). This is a group of servant-leaders whose mission is to help make our student ministry a better place for every student. After our first meeting, I recognized how passionate these 14 students are to serve others and to reach new students for Jesus. What can be better than that? Mike and I see great things happening in the lives of the students here at Christ UMC. We want to take every opportunity we can to thank our congregation for being supportive of our student ministries. We are seeing firsthand how God can make a difference in the world through the next generation of believers, and I know for a fact that our students feel supported by their church. Students hear negativity all too often concerning their generation. It’s more meaningful than ever that you all see them for who they truly are; precious children of God who have the potential to change the world for the better.
WEEKLY PROGRAM|christumcyouth.com n SUNDAY MORNINGS: 9:16 Worship | Youth Area | 9:16 a.m. – 10:15 a.m.An engaging worship service for Middle School and High School students.Bible Study | C-204 | 10:40 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
n SUNDAY NIGHTS: 5:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. Dinner: 5:00 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. Cost: $3Middle School Small Groups | Youth Area | Students will learn and share life with a caring adult and peers their own age and gender. High School Sunday Night Service | Christ Center Assembly Area | Worship service with a small group session.
n WEDNESDAYS: 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. | For details on the sessions below, visit christumcyouth.com/wednesdays.MIDDLE SCHOOL GROUP OPTIONSMedia & Tech | Art | Devotion Group Food and Garden
HIGH SCHOOL GROUP OPTIONSMedia & Tech | Fine Arts | Food & Garden | Devotion Group | In-Depth Bible Study
WEEKLY PROGRAMSVisit christumcchildren.com for more details. n SUNDAY MORNINGS | All Sunday School classes are located in Building E. 8:00 a.m.: 3K – 4K | E – 146 K5 – 5th | E – 248 9:15 a.m.: WorshipK3 – K4 | Fellowship Hall K5 – 2nd | E – 250 3rd – 5th | CC Assembly Area10:40 a.m.: Sunday School K3 | E – 148 K4 | E – 146 K5 | E – 144 1st – 5th | Building E – Upstairs
n SUNDAY EVENINGSPUPPET PRACTICE | 4:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. | Fellowship Hall | For more information, contact Ashley Walker at [email protected].
n WEDNESDAYSDinner: 5:15 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. | Fellowship Hall Worship: 6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. Preschoolers Worship | Bldg. E, Rm – 149 K5 – 5th Grade Worship | Bldg. E.
By Jeremy Steele, Next Generation MinisterWe are excited to be able to share a couple of updates about our Children’s Ministry staffing. As many of you know firsthand, one of the biggest success stories over the past couple years has been Ashley Walker’s ministry to our younger children. We are pleased to announce that we have promoted Ashley to be the Director of Children’s Ministry. In that role she will bring the same level of excellence and volunteer-focused ministry to all our events and programs for children up to fifth grade.
With Ashley as director, we have hired an Associate Children’s Minister to assist in this ministry. In that role, we have a young man who has been part of our team for two years: Sam Taylor Gochey. Over the past several years Sam Taylor has been responsible for coordinating and leading small groups, teaching in a large worship setting, designing and running a weekly outreach ministry to low-income children during his time on staff at SIFAT, in addition to serving as a Next Generation intern at Christ UMC. Please join us in welcoming Sam and Ashley when you see them!
Ashley Walker Director of Children’s Ministry Email: [email protected]
FEBRUARY ACTIVITIES n 3 | PRESCHOOL FUN DAY: BE MY SWEET VALENTINEFor 3 & 4 years old | 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. | Fellowship HallThere will be Valentine’s crafts, games and lots of fun. Register by Friday, January 29 at christumcchildren.com/register.n 17 | DADDY AND DAUGHTER DATE NIGHT | 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. | Christ Center Gym | Join us for a formal dinner for all father figures and grandparents. Cost: $20 per family. Register at christumcchildren.com/register.n 19 | ELEMENTARY FUN NIGHT | For K5 – 5th Grade6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. | Christ Center Assembly Area: TweenWorship Area | Cost: $5 per child | Younger siblings are welcome!
MARCH: SAVE THE DATEn 16 | PRESCHOOL FUN DAY: EASTER EGG DECORATING 3 & 4 years old | 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. | Fellowship HallJoin us as we have fun decorating Easter eggs and learn about Jesus. Register by FRIDAY, MARCH 12. Register at christumcchildren.com/register.n 19 | ANNUAL FAMILY EASTER EXPERIENCE | 10:00 a.m.– 1:00 p.m. | He is Risen! Join us for a wonderful day filled with fun as we celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ. There will be inflatables, performances by the Christ UMC Puppet Ministry, an Easter Egg Hunt, train rides, petting zoo and family worship!
n 24 | Seder Meal | 5:30 p.m. | Christ Center Gym | Join us as we celebrate the Passover Meal Jesus and His disciples celebrated before the crucifixion and resurrection. This is an incredible way to help the next generation experience and claim the story of the Exodus as their own. Cost: Adults $10; Children 5 and up $5. Child care available for children under 5.
By Rick Warren - For more information, visit danielplan.com Why do you spend your money on junk food? Your hard-earned cash on cotton candy? “Listen to me, listen well: Eat only the best, fill yourself with only the finest. Pay attention, come close now, listen carefully to my life-giving, life-nourishing words.” Isaiah 55:2-3 We know the health benefits of eating real food grown on a plant rather than manufactured in a plant. Real food is medicine; junk food is toxic.God says the same is true in the spiritual realm: His Word is real food for our souls. It renews our minds and replenishes our spirits. We need it in our daily diet. Consider making a plan to read a portion of one of the Gospels, one of Paul’s letters, or a Psalm each morning or before you go to bed. God invites us back to spiritual food that will make our souls flourish. “God’s Word is better than a diamond, better than a diamond set between emeralds. You’ll like it better than strawberries in spring, better than red, ripe strawberries.” (Psalm 19:10 MSG) How can you feed your soul and body today?
Food for Thought: God’s words are truly life-giving and life-nourishing, real food for the hungry soul.
RECREATION INFORMATIONRecreation includes an indoor walking track, fitness room, and basketball courts, as well as regular fitness classes. All participants should complete a registration card in order to participate in any area of the Recreation Ministry. Children 17 and under must have a parent/guardian signature on their registration card, and children 14 and under must have a parent/guardian present.
FITNESS CLASSES: 1st class is FREE then $5 per class or purchase a six-class card for $25.
n Fitness Room: Requires a one-time fitness room orientation, held Monday - Friday at 6:30 p.m.
n Basketball Gym: Reserved for Christ UMC members and visitors who regularly attend services and up to three of their guests.
n Yoga Classes: Mondays and Thursdays at 6:00 p.m., Tuesdays and Thursdays at 9:00 a.m.
n PiYo Classes: Tuesdays at 7:00 p.m.
n Your Way Fitness: Mondays and *Thursdays at 7:00 p.m. and Tuesdays at 6:00 p.m. (*NO class on Feb. 4)
CSPORTS REGISTRATION
n REGISTER FOR SPRING YOUNG RUNNERS CLUB | For K5 – 9th grade | Parent Conference is March 21. K5 – 2nd grade will train to run one mile; 3rd – 9th grade will train to run a 5K. All runners will participate in two official road races in Mobile. Practices begin the week of March 28. K5 – 2nd grade practice once a week, 3rd – 5th grades & 6th – 9th grades practice twice a week. The season is 8-10 weeks. Registration fee is $40 until March 21.
FEBRUARY DATES n 1 & 2—Baseball & Softball Evaluations
n 4—K4 T-Ball Evaluations
n 4—678 Volleyball practices begin
n 6—South AL/678 Volleyball Clinic
n 9—CLOSED in preparation for Ash Wednesday
n 23—678 Volleyball pictures
n 25—Baseball Coaches Meeting & Roster handout
n 27—Women’s Conference—REC MIN CLOSED
n 29—Baseball practices begin
CHRIST CENTER HOURS Monday - Friday: 6:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m. Saturday: 8:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. For additional information, call 251.706.3326 or visit: christumcsports.com.Visit /cumc.recreationministry to stay up-to-date with the Recreation Ministry.
For My house shall be called a house of prayer for all peoples.
Isaiah 56:7b (ESV)
CALL TO PRAYER – 2 CHRONICLES 7:14 Lord, as we humble ourselves and prepare for the future, help us to be focused on Your will. We are the church built on the Chief corner stone—Jesus. Matthew 16:16,18; 1 Peter 2:4,7
HEART AFTER GOD – ACTS 1:24-25AGracious Lord, we ask You to give the Bishop, Cabinet, and our church Your heart as the process of appointments begins. 1 Samuel 16:7
REJOICING – 1 THESSALONIANS 5:18Heavenly Father, we celebrate our past and anticipate this new chapter in our church.
CLEANSING – PSALM 24:3-4Almighty God, we desire to be right with You. Therefore, we confess our sins against You. We want clean hands and a pure heart.
HOLY SPIRIT – ACTS 1:8Holy Spirit, we need You to empower us for Kingdom living and for sharing our faith. Galatians 5:22-25 & Luke 24:48-49.
UNITY AND WISDOM – ACTS 1:14Holy Father, we surrender to Your wisdom which will produce unity in the Body of Christ.
This year will be a year of transition for the Christ United Methodist Church family. Just as Pastor Jeff and 13 missioner families studied and prayed for God’s will when they planted Christ UMC more than 35 years ago, we want to pray diligently for the changes and new opportunities Christ UMC will have.
Each month our prayers will have an emphasis. We encourage you to be involved in at least one of the following ways, in addition to your daily personal prayer time:
With your prayer partner, with your small group, and with the Corporate Prayer Gathering once per month.
Please make plans to join us on the following dates:
Church-wide Prayer Focusn Sunday, February 21 | 5:00 p.m. | Christ Center
n Sunday, March 20 | 5:00 p.m. | Christ Center
n Sunday, April 24 | 5:00 p.m. | Christ Center
n Sunday, May 22 | 5:00 p.m. | Christ Center
Prayer is a powerful gift from God. Join us as we continue to move forward
for the kingdom.
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ASH WEDNESDAY SERVICEWEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 10
6:00 p.m. | Sanctuary
WHY ASHES ON ASH WEDNESDAY?Adapted from The United Methodist Book of Worship Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of the season of Lent and a period of rebirth. Lent is a time when many Christians prepare for Easter by observing a period of fasting, repentance, moderation and spiritual discipline.
“If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all
unrighteousness.” 1 John 1:9
Ash Wednesday emphasizes two themes: our sinfulness before God and our human mortality. During some Ash Wednesday services, the minister will lightly rub the sign of the cross with ashes onto the foreheads of worshipers saying, “Remember, man, that dust thou art, and unto dust thou shalt return.” Genesis 3:19 KJV
Historically, ashes signified purification and sorrow for sins. It is traditional to save the palm branches from the previous Palm Sunday service to burn to produce ashes for this service. The ash cross on the forehead is an outward sign of our sorrow and repentance for sins. From Biblical times, sprinkling oneself with ashes has been a mark of sorrow for sin.
SAVE THE DATEEASTER 2016
n FAMILY EASTER EXPERIENCE | SAT., MAR. 19 Join us for a wonderful day filled with fun as we celebrate and experience the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Entertainment for all: Inflatables, cotton candy, snow cones, games, hot dogs, popcorn, puppet and drama team performances, egg hunt for kids and Hunger Games-style egg hunt for youth.
n PALM SUNDAY SERVICES | SUN., MAR. 20 | Join us at one of our regular worship times.
n SEDER PASSOVER MEAL | THURS., MARCH 245:30 p.m. | Christ Center Gym | Join us as we celebrate the Passover meal Jesus and His disciples celebrated before the crucifixion and resurrection. Must preregister at christumcmobile.com/seder. Cost: $10 adults/$5 children (5 years and up). Child care available for children under five.
n MAUNDY THURSDAY COMMUNION SERVICETHURS., MARCH 24 | 7:00 p.m. | Sanctuary | Come experience communion at tables of twelve, representing Jesus and the disciples at the last supper.
n GOOD FRIDAY CONCERT: GOD SO LOVED THE WORLD | FRIDAY, MARCH 25 | 7:00 p.m. | Sanctuary God So Loved the World concert is a combination of music and dramatic monologues that will draw you into the experiences leading up to the crucifixion of Jesus.
n YOUTH WORSHIP | For 6th - 12th grade9:16 a.m. | Christ Center
n PRESCHOOL - K5 WORSHIP | 9:15 a.m. & 10:40 a.m. | Fellowship Hall
n 1ST - 5TH GRADE WORSHIP | 9:15 a.m. & 10:40 a.m. | Christ Center Assembly Area
n EVENING WORSHIP | 5:00 p.m. | Christ Center *Child care available *
For more information visit christumcmobile.com/holyweek
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HOSPITALITY VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIESJust 20-30 minutes of your time once, per month on a Sunday, can make such a difference to a visitor. On Sunday, February 6, between 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. stop by the Discover the Joy booth in the Sanctaury and see Genie Schneider to sign up to volunteer for our Information Desks, Greeters and Cart Drivers.
“Anyone who welcomes you is welcoming Me and anyone who welcomes Me is welcoming the Father who sent Me.” Matthew 10:40 (NIV)
Our Hospitality Ministry is in need of volunteers. Please consider serving as:
n Greeters: Once per month on Sunday mornings at the entrances in the Sanctuary area or NewSong area
n Information Desk volunteers:Once per month on Sunday mornings at the Front Desk in the Christ Center or atthe Discover the Joy booth in the Sanctuary area
n Phone volunteers: Once per month atthe Front Desk in the Christ Center on Sunday mornings
n Scribe volunteers: Once per month on Tuesdaymornings to write welcome letters to our first-time visitors
n Golf Cart Drivers: Once per month on Sundays in-between services
CHORAL SCHOLARS PROGRAM New opportunity for local college students to be eligible to receive scholarship funds by singing in our Sanctuary choir. Contact Ralph Gudeman at [email protected]. Donations also needed for the fund. Make donations to CUMC choral scholars.
The Grounds Ministry is looking for volunteers to help take care of Christ UMC’s grounds. If you have been blessed with a talent of landscaping/gardening and have a specific area of interest, we would like for you to join us. n Meet as a group for work days on the 1st and 3rd Saturday mornings of each month. n Receive reminder emails. n Work around weather and church events. n Schedules are flexible and you can come at your convenience. n A variety of projects and areas are available.
Please let us know when you can volunteer and in what area. If you are interested in joining us, please contact Pierce Staples at 251.599.2071.
SHARE YOUR TALENTS WITH US!
Get started in the right direction with Starting Point. Learn about the Christian faith, the mission of our church and membership.
You will also learn how to get connected into the life of Christ UMC!
SUNDAY, MARCH 6 9:00 A.M. - 10:30 A.M.HOSPITALITY ROOM
REGISTER AT: christumcmobile.com/startingpoint
ARE YOU NEW TO CHRIST UMC?
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Babbie Mason
Christ United Methodist Church presents2016 WOMEN’S CONFERENCE
Saturday, February 27, 2016
COST: $35
Register at Christ UMC or online:christumcmobile.com/wc20166101 Grelot Road | Mobile, AL 36609 | 251.342.0462
Christ United Methodist Church
9:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. | Includes free child care.
I will be in them and you will be in me so that they will be completely one. Then the world will know that you sent me and that you loved them just as much as you loved me. —John 17:23 (NCV)
T-shirts are available for purchase:Short sleeve: $12 | Long sleeve: $17
MOVING FORWARD IN 2016Rob Blackwell, Church AdministratorAs I pointed out in the November/December newsletter, 2015 was a very busy and productive year for Christ UMC. Financially, we had some significant accomplishments, along with a few challenges we are still facing. Accomplishments included the sale of the corner property and the impact that has had on our debt; the subsequent refinancing of our loan at a lower principal amount and much lower rate; the replacement of two major failing pieces of equipment (the Sanctuary organ and the Christ Center air conditioning) with no additional debt; the implementation of an online giving program that is providing a more convenient and inclusive way to give; and the beginning of our FORWARD initiative, which focuses more on the tithe and allows us to more prudently manage our cash flow between operating and capital needs. One of the challenges we encountered was that FORWARD giving was lower than projected. Our expenses, including principal payments, were managed down to meet our income. In reviewing the results, the Finance Committee determined that our 7YP goal was unmanageable, aggressive, and, that any operating budget cuts needed to be accompanied by a prudent decrease in our principal payment schedule. This recommendation was approved by the Administrative Board in the 2016 budget. The change will allow FORWARD to meet our operating needs and also continue to aggressively but responsibly fund the Seven Year Plan. The thermometer chart shows the final numbers for 2015 since the last newsletter was printed in November. Note that we have now paid down more than $4 million since the 7YP began!
$4,071,035*thru December
$500,000
$1,000,000
$3,000,000
$4,000,000
$4,400,000*
$1,250,000
2013
- 20
15 P
RIN
CIP
AL
PAYM
ENTS
2014GOAL
2015GOAL
2013GOAL
* Includes $2,000,000 from Crossroads sale
$2,000,000
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Leigh Ann JohnsonJoined Sunday, January 24, 2016
Mark GorskiJoined Sunday, January 24, 2016
Emma and David JeffreyJoined Sunday, January 24, 2016
GAP is a group of men and women between the ages of 23 and 35 who
have never been married. They meet every Tuesday at the home of Jim and Amy Mitchell. For more information and directions contact Jim & Amy at [email protected]
or 251.767.1325.
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 86:30 P.M. - 7:30 P.M. | PARLOR
Christ UMC Christian Cancer Support meets every 2nd Monday of the month.Please join us for cancer education, faithful testimony, information/referral, and prayer.
Contact Teresa Atkins at [email protected] or 251.653.0364 for more information. For child care, contact Kim Pratt at [email protected] or 251.706.3331.
Sundays Christ Center Assembly Area
6:30 p.m.- 8:30 p.m.
Volunteers provide us with an incredible home cooked meal each week.
ABOUT RANSOM CAFE Ransom Cafe’s mission is to combat physical and spiritual hunger locally and throughout the world by using quality fresh ingredients in the food served, helping others learn about food preparation, job preparedness, participating in community missions and showing the love of Jesus through acts of service.
DONATION BASED LUNCHESTHURSDAYS
11:00 A.M. - 2:00 P.M.
Find help and healing for the hurt of separation and divorce. DivorceCare is a friendly, caring group of people who will walk alongside you through one of life’s most difficult experiences.
Don’t go through separation or divorce alone.
Wednesdays, 6:00 p.m.Christ Center | Rm C-221(No meeting on Wednesday, February 10)
Child care available for infants - 5th grade.For more information, contact Dawn Bratcher at [email protected] or 251.706.3328.
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John Putman and family in the death of his father, John Putman, Sr.
David & Diane Moore and family in the death of their daughter, Lisa Wood
Shirley Hanrath and family in the death of her husband, Bud Hanrath
Kim Hamrick and Karen Williamson and families in the death of their father, Bud Hanrath
Shelly Shirazi and family in the death of her mother, Beverly Jordan
John Green and family in the death of his mother, Helen Green
Rick Daves and family in the death of his mother, Caroline Daves
The family of Harold Henry Long
Paul Taylor and family in the death of his father, William Henry Taylor.
For more information, contact Donna Alexander at [email protected] or 251.342.0462, ext. 225
or visit christumcmobile.com/celebraterecovery.
A Christ-centered 12-step program for life’s hurts, hang-ups, and habits. Recovery is a journey you don’t have to travel alone.
Every Thursday | 6:30 p.m. | Building F
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 16 8:30 A.M. - 11:30 A.M.Across from Recreation Desk
Provided by Susie OllhoftChrist UMC Health Care Ministry
FREE BLOOD PRESSURE CHECKS
n Grieving the death of a loved onen Hospitalized or recovering from hospitalizationn Lonely or discouragedn Coping with a terminal illness n Caring for a family member with a terminal illnessn Unemployed or in a job crisisn Disabled or caring for an ill or disabled family membern Moving or relocating
n New to the congregation or the communityn Anticipating the birth or adoption of a childn Homebound or institutionalizedn Transitioning into retirementn Dealing with the crisis of agingn Facing a life transitionn Experiencing a spiritual crisisn Victims of a disaster or accident
STEPHEN MINISTERS CAREOur Stephen Ministers provide confidential, one-on-one Christian care to people who are:
And for people facing countless other crises or life challenges or who are going through a difficult time and could benefit from the care of a supportive Christian friend. Do these words resonate with you in a special way? Would you like to know more about Stephen Ministry at Christ UMC or about becoming a Stephen Minister at Christ UMC? If so, please contact Donna Alexander at 251.510.0905. Your call is confidential.
WEDNESDAY8:00 a.m. Lifegate5:30 p.m. Youth Re:Fuel6:00 p.m. Adult Studies Singles Bible Study Youth Bible Study Children’s Wednesday Night Single Mom’s Class DivorceCare6:15 p.m. Stephen Ministry
6:30 p.m. Sanctuary Choir
THURSDAY9:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. Library Open
11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Ransom Cafe
6:30 p.m. Celebrate Recovery
MONDAY - FRIDAY8:45 a.m. - 12:45 p.m. Preschool
9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Mom’s Day Out
LIBRARY
Did you know February is National Library Lovers Month? Are you wondering what there might be to love about our own church library? The answer is our friendly volunteers, the cozy environment, great selection of fiction and non-fiction books for adults, books for children and adults, DVDs suitable for families, audio books, the summer reading program for children, popcorn and a movie month, and more.
If you have never visited the Lighthouse Library, make it a point to “check us out” during February.
Weekly Activities
ONLINE GIVING IS NOW AVAILABLEVisit christumcmobile.com/give OR install the Pushpay app from the Google Play Store or the App Store OR text “christumc” to 77977.
STAY CONNECTED WITH CHRIST UMCCHRISTUMCMOBILE.COM
To receive the Christ UMC In The Loop email blast or electronic version of the monthly newsletter, visit
CHRISTUMCMOBILE.COM/MEDIA
LIKE USfacebook.com/christumcmobile
FOLLOW UStwitter.com/christumcmobile
PODCASTchristumcmobile.com/media
WATCH LIVEchristumcmobile.com/sermons
JEFF’S PERCEPTIONS | 7:40 A.M.WKSJ 94.9 FM | WRKH 96.1 FM | WTKX 101.5 FM
OR ONLINE AT christumcmobile.com/jeffsperceptions
LISTEN TO JEFF’S PERCEPTIONS
LOCATIONThe Music Hallway, Building B.
A convenient drop box is located in the hallway just outside the Library.
REGISTER NOW FOR CLASSES Register for classes by visiting
KindermusikAtchristunited.comCall Trish Dougherty at 251.706.3336 or [email protected].
11:00 a.m. Preschool Fun Day
10:00 a.m. Lydia Circle
Mary & Martha Circle at mailcircle.com
5:30 p.m. Crossroads Circle
Christ UMC OfficeCLOSED
REGISTRATION FOR NEW FAMILIESTuesday, February 16 | 8:00 a.m. | Hospitality Room
Kidz Crossing has spots available in the half day as well as the extended day program for children 8 weeks to 4 years old. If you would like to take a tour of the program or for more information, please call Christie Ford or
Sunnilee Chafin at 251.342.7215.
7:00 p.m. How Does the Methodist Church Work?
10:00 a.m. UMW Mission Study
8:00 a.m. Hands and Feet Youth Local Mission
5:00 p.m. The Wookie Project6:00 p.m. Elem. Fun Night
