The

Epworth TowerEpworth United Methodist Church | 4855 W. Central Ave. | Toledo, OH 43615Church Phone: 419.531.4236 | Church Fax: 419.531.7487Website: www.epworth.com | E-mail: epworth@epworth.com

Trunk-or-Treat | 5:00 to 6:00 PM - A FREE Event!Wear Your Costumes | Play Games | Trunk-or-Treat for Candy

Visit the Spooky Truck | Bring Your Friends!

Dinner | 5:00 to 7:00 PM - (a NEW/optional event)Holy Smoke BBQ - $10 Epworth Grillmasters with their special sauces

(Tickets must be purchased in advance by Monday, October 21.)

Hamburger or Hotdog Meal - $6(Tickets in advance or at the door.)

Dinner tickets on sale Sundays in the Cloisteror in the Church office during the week!

October 16, 2013For Parents/Kids...................page 4

Education................................page 6

Arts & Crafts Bazaar................page 7

Health Ministries...................page 8

Stewardship............................page 9

Adult Singles.........................page 10

Christmas Volunteering....page 12

Treasurer’s Report.............page 14

Epworth Artist Series.........page 15

S.W.A.T. Activities............back page

There are many ways to volunteer for UMW’s Annual Arts & Crafts Bazaar, including donating silent auction items or baked goods, helping to setup or takedown, helping in the kitchen, or even doing laundry!

Sign up to volunteer today in the Narthex or on the back of the enclosed flyer. Call Val Hendricks with an auction item and Polly Richardson to volunteer.

Epworth Needsa Little Change

The Stewardship Campaign for Epworth this year is titled “Living Generously.” The expenses of our church have slowly risen throughout the years and traditionally there has not been a specific request for sustained increases in giving. This year, our committee needs to ask for some “change” - the spare change in your pocket every day can literally make a huge difference in the operations of our church and our commitment to serving GOD and others.

The finance committee has expressed a need for approximately $50,000 of expenses to be added to the budget for

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CongratulationsJason and Kristen Holmes on the birth of their daughter, Gwendolyn Mae, on Sunday, September 22. The proud big sister is Grace and the proud grandparents are Dave and Leslie Risley.

Florine McCain on the birth of her granddaughter, Erin Nanci McCain, on Friday, October 4.

Our CondolencesJack and Peggy McKisson and family on the passing of their daughter-in-law (Alan’s wife), Itzel McKisson, on September 25.

Bob Fox and family on the passing of his wife, Carol Fox, on September 25.

The Potter family on the passing of John Potter on October 3.

The Sturgill family on the passing of Bill Sturgill’s wife, Beverly Binder, on October 3.

Jeanne Reisler and family and Barbara Vaughan and family on the passing of Park Vaughan (Jeanne’s cousin and Barbara’s brother-in-law) on October 6.

Jeff and Sherry Cousins on the passing of Jeff ’s mother, Lois Cousins, on October 6.

PERSONALS

Church Office Hours

9:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Epworth Electronic MailYou can now sign up to receive electronic mail from Epworth. An email newsletter is sent on a weekly basis that is user friendly. Just go to the subject you are interested in and click. This newsletter also gives you a link to the most current Tower. Get on this list today and keep current with all the Epworth activities!

To sign up, please e-mail caryn@epworth.com with “Epworth Electronic E-mail List” in the subject line.

To sign up for any obituary notifications, please e-mail with “Obituary Notifications E-mail List” in the subject line.

Copy of the Monthly CalendarIf you would like a hard copy of the monthly calendar, you can pick one up from the kiosk in the Narthex on Sundays or in the Church office during the week.

The calendar is always available on www. epworth.com.

Furniture MinistryOctober Pickups: 17, 26November Pickups: 2, 9, 14, 23Client Selections: October 19 and November 16Arrange a Donation Pickup: Call 567.694.3710

WWW

Like us on Facebook!www.facebook.com/EpworthToledo

Follow us on Twitter!@EpworthToledo

Share with us on Instagram!#EpworthToledo

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Dear Epworth Friends,

I was overwhelmed by the pyramid of 78 no-sew blankets that you have made. Such love and service! Your handwork will bless so many people in need.

As the weather turns cooler, I hope you will remember as you go to sleep each night: Someone is sleeping warmly tonight because of a blanket I made. Someone feels a little less frightened, a little less lonely, a little more “at home” because I gave my time.

I am so grateful that you are our partners in ministry for this outreach!

Many Blessings, Liddy Hoster and The Rev. Elizabeth M. HosterRector, Trinity Episcopal Church

THANKS! !

BABYBOOMERSSAVE THE DATE!

Our annual Christmas Party will be on Saturday, December 7 at 6:00 PM.

Details to come later.

Epworth’s Mission TeamThe mission team has recently returned from a week in Athens, Ohio, working with the homeless and needy population of that area.

Our congregation was blessed by the message about Good Works brought to us in Sunday worship in September by Keith Wasserman, founder and Executive Director of this vital and important ministry.

One of the greatest and most expensive needs of people living in poverty in Southeast Ohio is transportation. Employment is scarce in this rural area and if you do have a job, you need a car to get there. Public transportation is non-existent. For those of us living in Toledo, most of us with more than one car in our driveway, it’s hard to imagine not having a car to go wherever we need to go.

Good Works depends upon donations of working used automobiles to give to persons who “earn” them by doing volunteer work for the agency. One way Epworth can contribute to this important ministry is for individuals to donate their used car instead of trading it in when buying another vehicle. There is a tax donation for doing so, which sometimes makes it more profitable than getting a trade-in allowance.

If you are interested in this opportunity to give, call the Church or contact Paul Richard (740.594.3336) at Good Works.

October is Talk about Prescriptions Month. So, let’s talk about all of those unused and expired medicines collecting in your cupboard!

Saturday, October 26 is Drug Take Back Day. From 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM, the police departments of Ottawa Hills, Sylvania, and Sylvania Township are collecting and disposing of medications that are commonly abused. Disposal will be friendly to the environment.

The collection sites will accept narcotics, over-the-counter medicines, pet medications, prescriptions, and vitamins. They will NOT accept syringes, inhalers, liquid medications, ointments, or lotions.

Bring your unused medications to one of the three collection sites:

• Ottawa Hills Police Department (2125 Richards Road, Ottawa Hills)

• City of Sylvania Police Department (6635 Maplewood Avenue, Sylvania)

• Sylvania Township Police Department (4420 King Road, Sylvania)

Flu Shot Clinic RecapA big THANK YOU to the Lucas County Health Department for “sticking” with us for 4 hours on Sunday, October 6 for our Annual Flu Shot Clinic. A total of 99 vaccinations were delivered!

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Are you looking for a fun way to connect with other members of Epworth? Do you have younger children, infants through grade school? Then we have just the group for you!

The Parent Connection Committee has simple objectives: To help parents make time for themselves and to expand their friendships at Epworth. We even provide free babysitting and fun activities for the kiddos during most of our events! It’s a chance to get out and mingle with other adults – and maybe even re-energize your own relationship.

Save the dates below and look for more events and details in the Tower, Bulletins, and E-mails!

Bonfire Night at the Roesti’sFriday, October 18

Game Night with the Haas’Saturday, November 9

If you have any questions, would like more information, or if you would like to be added to the e-mailing list, please contact Cindy Franklin.

Attention Epworth Shoppers! Announcing a fun and easy way to wrap up some holiday shopping while helping to support the Children’s Day Out (CDO) program here at Epworth. Learning Express (Monroe Street location) is offering two shopping days (November 21 and 22) to benefit CDO. The flyer MUST be presented at purchase for the program to receive 20% of sales made using our fundraising coupon. Feel free to copy the flyer to share with grandparents, other family members, or friends. It’s easy and fun, and helps provide funds for this great program.

Happy shopping, and don’t forget your flyer! Flyers are available at the kiosk in the Narthex or in the Education office. Don’t have any little ones to buy for? No problem! Our Sunday School has a wish list on file, and you are more than welcome to shop for us! It’s a double win!

Thanks for your support!

Italian NiteCome one, come all to SWAT’s Annual Italian Nite. Sofo’s sauce and meatballs, fresh Italian bread and butter, salad, dessert - all you care to eat. Thursday, October 17 from 5:30 to 7:00 PM in Epworth’s Italian Eatery (aka Family Life Center). All proceeds go to SWAT Student Ministry Missions.

Adult meals are $7.00, children ages 5-12 are just $4.00, and ages 4 and under are FREE, or ask for the Special Family Rate of $20.00. Take out orders or table reservations for groups are available. Bring your family, friends, neighbors, and business associates. We hope to see YOU! Thanks for supporting Epworth SWAT Student Missions!

Epworth Fall Family FunWe will start the fun by meeting Saturday, October 19 at 4:30 PM by the Central Avenue doors. From there, Ed Danziger will lead us across the street for a walk at Wildwood Park. After working up an appetite, we will come back to the Church and gather around the campfire to grill hotdogs! We will provide the hot dogs and S’mores, but please bring a side dish to share. A family friendly movie will be shown in the Family Life Center, and then we will end the evening with fellowship around the campfire.

If you would like to come, but can’t make the walk, the cookout and campfire will start at 6:30 PM. Please RSVP on the Opportunities Page or Contact Karen Knight. Hope to see you there!

Special Needs Task Force EventThe Special Needs Task Force is inviting family care homes in our area to an OSU/UM Chili Dinner on November 22 from 5:00 to 7:00 PM.

We will also serve other light refreshments and have plenty of tailgate games. If you would like to help us host this event, we would love to have extra help that evening.

All of the attendees will have caregivers with them, but we would like to have some “Epworth friends” to assist with games, lend a hand, and give a smile. So, wear your favorite team’s colors and come have some fun! Call the Education office to sign up to attend or to bring chili or other snacks.

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Healing and WholenessMarine veteran and Emmaus community servant, Teresa Hillis, will be speaking at our Tuesday, November 12 Healing and Wholeness Service. The service begins at 7:00 PM in the Chapel.

Teresa’s testimony will be “Getting Out of My Own Way: The Journey of Healing and Wholeness Found at the Bottom of a Well.”

A representative of The Arms Forces, an organization that helps veterans dealing with traumatic brain injury (TBI) and post traumatic

stress disorder (PTSD), will also be on hand to provide information about their services.

This quiet meditative service is a respite for reflection, prayer, and communion. Come to the service to pray for others, to have the community pray for your special needs, and to pray for the hurt and brokenness in the world. A free-will offering will be collected for The Arms Forces.

Pastor Thomas will lead the healing prayers and preside at the service of Holy Communion. Team Members Beth Irwin, BJ Brengartner, Dolli Darah, and Penny McCartney will participate in the service.

Future Care PlanningFacing end of life for someone you love can be eased by knowing what to expect and by knowing what questions to ask. Medical, legal, and spiritual professionals will guide this interactive approach to learning, based on research in each field. Practical aspects will include guided completion of essential forms at the last session plus handouts for additional guidance.

Though each class will be a discreet unit, regular participants will gain a sense of preparedness for what is to come to all mortals - the loss of someone dear to us - perhaps even one’s self.

October 23 - What Happens to Your “Stuff” When You Can’t Decide Anymore, Tom Christensen, JD, LLM

October 30 - Grieving as We Age: Seasons of Hope, Barbara Kopp Miller, PhD

November 6 - Completing Essential Documents, (A notary, witnesses, and trained guides will help you complete the forms we all need to have in place.), Pastor Keith Luke, Debbie Keller, LSW , Tom Christensen, JD, LLM

All classes begin at 7:00 PM. For additional details, see the postcards in the Narthex.

To join just one or all of the classes, e-mail Ruth Ann at ruthann@epworth.com or sign up on the Opportunities Page. Childcare will be provided if requested in advance.

Wonder ful Wednesday NOVEMBER LUNCHEON

Wednesday, November 6 at noon, Dr. Ed Danziger, retired professor from BGSU, will be our guest speaker for the Wonderful Wednesday Luncheon.

Ed will speak about how, during the first year of the War of 1812, the British and their Indian allies, under Tecumseh, won several battles in the Great Lakes area and how it was up to General William Henry Harrison to stop them, which is why he built Ft. Meigs on the banks of the Maumee River. Twice during the summer of 1813, the British and Indians attacked him and his men, while the fate of the Western US was in his hands.

Come November 6 to find out what happens next!

Chef Les will be cooking a delicious Thanksgiving feast with turkey, mashed potatoes and gravy, cornbread stuffing, veggies, dinner rolls, and yummy dessert, so please join us! Invite your friends and neighbors! Cost for lunch is $6.00. Contact Nancy in the Church office at 419.531.4236 or nancy@epworth.com to make your reservation by Monday, November 4.

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NURSERY childcare is available at 8:30, 9:45, and 11:00 in the nurseryTODDLER Sing-n-Worship at 8:30, 9:45, and 11:00 in Room 110 - Our toddlers learn from lessons geared to two year olds which, let them know how much we love them and how much God loves them.

PRE-SCHOOL Play-N-Worship at 9:45 and 11:00 in Rooms 112 & 114 - Preschool children ages 3-5 (not yet in kindergarten) are invited to join us Sunday morning in rooms 112 & 114 for Play-N-Worship. Each month the children will explore a new Bible Point through stories, songs, and play. The children will also memorize a Bible verse, learn an action prayer, and collect a Pennies for Jesus offering to buy children’s Bibles to send with our mission teams.

ELEMENTARYChildren, Grades K-5 at 9:45 in Room 205, “The Oasis” - We will be exploring the Bible Virtues in large and small groups through drama, music, Bible storytellers, and DVDs on our new big screen.

This month in the Kingdom, we are headed to Base Camp as we discover what God is doing in you to change the world around you. We will stick to three basic truths: WISDOM: I need to make the wise choice. FAITH: I can trust God no matter what. FRIENDSHIP: I should treat others the way I want to be treated. Then we move to the Kingdom room each week in small groups for more activities surrounding our basic truths and Bible stories. NEW STORIES EACH WEEK! These classes are participating in the study “Living Generously” through November 3.

Our Learn to Serve Mission Project: Please bring gently used books and small toys for the Furniture Ministry.

Sixth Grade S.L.A.M. at 9:45 in Room 206 (second floor in the Kingdom hallway)

Youth Donuts and the Bible at 9:45 - Junior High in room 003 at the far end of the Family Life Center; Senior High in Room 215. These classes are participating in the study “Living Generously” through November 3.

Children, Grades K-3 at 11:00 WOW (Worship Our Way) in Room 205 - This class meets in Bible Time Players (Room 205) directly following the Pastor’s Children’s Moment. Each week the children will learn about God’s love through age-appropriate lessons packed with hands-on learning through praise, worship, and prayer.

ADULT - Most of our adult classes are using the book and DVD “Living Generously,” experiencing the life that is truly life. Each week has a short DVD segment with a study guide, including discussions with biblical basis. This experience will help us learn how to move toward a truly generous life that gives of all that we have as Jesus gave. This study will run October 6 - November 3.

• Adult Bible Study at 9:45 in Room 214• Friends in Faith at 9:45 in our new room - Room 213• Sermon Notes at 11:00 in Room 214• Coffee and Conversation Class at 9:45 in Room 020

• On Octoer 27, our speaker will be Barbara Blaine, sister of Epworth’s Marcia Holtz. Barbara founded the Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests (SNAP) in 1988, after she was repeatedly molested by a Catholic priest while growing up here in Toledo. Since then, she has worked tirelessly to protect children and to help survivors and their loved ones find healing, information, and support.

New Class at 9:45 in the Library (lower level by Central Avenue door) - Courageous Bible Study - This study is based on the movie Courageous. Join us as we learn to live more courageously in four areas: Responsibility: serving, protecting, and casting a vision for our family; Priorities: focusing on eternal things rather than what is temporary; Legacy: recognizing a parent’s potential impact as a godly role model; Faith: strengthening our identities in Christ, increasing in wisdom All are welcome!

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Volunteer on Sunday Mornings Love Our Lambs

The Preschool Wing needs loving arms and warm hearts to care for our 3, 4, and 5 year olds at 9:45 and 11:00. You can help with snack, read Bible stories, play games, and share your love of God. How can you GENEROUSLY impact a young child’s life? Easy to lead, hands -on materials are all ready and waiting for you. All we need is you! Call Mary in the Education office or sign up on the Opportunities Page.

Serving Generously: You Can Change a Child’s LifeEach week our children depend on you to lead them closer to Jesus. We all are responsible for their faith journey and each small step on that journey. Please consider how you can serve in the education ministry for a week, a month, or the whole school year. We have many ways to help; some may only take a few minutes out of your week or your Sunday.

We are especially looking for 11:00 leaders in preschool and W.O.W. If your children are being cared for and nurtured spiritually while you are in worship or Sunday school at 9:45, won’t you consider staying an extra hour to be with those children whose parents taught your children and are worshipping at 11:00? Please sign up on the Opportunities Page or on the bulletin board in the Narthex.

Upcoming MilestonesSecond graders and their parents are invited to the Communion Milestone on Sunday, October 27 at 11:00 AM in Room 203. If any older children missed this milestone, they are also welcome to attend.

Please come and learn about communion and what it means to us as children of God. In the United Methodist Church, communion is a personal commitment. All are welcome at our communion table. We encourage you, as a family, to decide when this is right for your child.

Fifth graders and their parents (or another adult) are invited to their milestone on Sunday, November 17 at 11:00 AM. Please come and learn about Stewardship. We will learn how to give to God first. We will explore ways to give back to God by our prayers, our presence, our gifts, and our service.

Call Dana in the Education office or e-mail dana@epworth.com, or sign up on the Opportunities Page if you plan to attend either of these milestones.

Epworth United Methodist Women’s

Arts & Crafts Bazaar NewsSaturday, November 2 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM

Silent Auction “Buy It Now” Opportunity!

You will have an opportunity to buy select Silent Auction items for a set price starting October 14. Go to www.epworth.com and click on the “Silent Auction” button. Items such as gift certificates, gourmet dinners, trips, etc. will be there for purchase prior to the Arts & Crafts Bazaar on November 2.

All proceeds from this event are donated to local missions for charitable programs. Help others through our Silent Auction “Buy It Now” program. Mark your calendar and check the website starting October 14!

Donate to the Silent Auction!

Donate a service or item (new or unused) for the Silent Auction. Be creative! Items like vacation cottages, babysitting, gourmet meals, boat rides, tickets, restaurant gift certificates, etc. are perfect! Contact Val Hendricks or Anna Wilkinson.

Donate to the PANTRY

We need baked goods, candy, or bread for the pantry. Contact Lisa Keaffaber or Sue Cafferty.

VOLUNTEER Your Time

Are you willing to donate your time? It takes more than 100 people to run the event. Contact Polly Richardson or Marsha Palmer. Sign-up sheets will be posted in the Cloister in September.

Card and Game Party

Gather your friends for an afternoon or morning of cards or board games on November 2. Contact Bobbie Raeder or Martha Kreuz for tickets.

See the sign up sheet insert in this issue of the Tower for all volunteer opportunities.

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Healthy bones are amazingly strong. Ounce for ounce, they can support as much weight as reinforced concrete. With good care and feeding, your bones will be up to their job, and it’s never too late to begin healthy care of your bones. Even if you’ve already been diagnosed with osteoporosis, there are treatments available to help minimize further loss and strengthen your internal “support system.”

What is Osteoporosis?Osteoporosis develops when bones have lost so much calcium that they become thin and brittle. People with osteoporosis can suffer fractures of the hip, wrist, spine, and other bones after minor trauma. More than 10-million Americans have osteoporosis. Another 34-million have osteopenia, a milder lack of bone calcium that often leads to osteoporosis and its painful complications.

DiagnosisSimple tests can diagnose osteoporosis and osteopenia early, so preventive

treatment can head off trouble. Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DEXA) is the standard test. It only takes ten minutes and is safe and painless. While you lie on a table, a machine beams photons through your bones, usually at the spine, hip, or wrist. DEXA can compute the bone density in any region of your body, and exposes you to only one-tenth as much radiation as a chest x-ray.

Ultrasound uses sound waves to measure bone mineral density at the hip, shin, heel, or finger. This test is not as accurate as DEXA, but it can give an estimate of bone density painlessly in less than a minute.

ScreeningThe National Osteoporosis Foundation recommends testing for all women aged 65 and older and for all postmenopausal women younger than 65 who have one or more of the risk factors, such as a family history of osteoporosis or a vitamin deficiency. Men over 70 should also

be tested, as should younger men with osteoporosis rick factors or a history of broken bones. Anyone taking bone-building medication should be tested periodically to measure his or her progress.

Building Better BonesThe foundation for building better bone density is simple: get enough calcium and vitamin D, engage in weight-bearing exercise regularly, and take appropriate medications when necessary. Protect bones by avoiding bone-depleting habits: smoking and excessive alcohol intake.

Safeguarding Your BonesThe earlier you start taking good care of your bones, the stronger they will be throughout your life. If you are at high risk of osteoporosis, talk to your doctor about having a bone mineral density test and, if needed, take medication to prevent fractures. It’s never too late to start.

Submitted by Sharon Thomas

CPR/AED Certification and/or Renewal Whether you want to learn CPR for the first time or need to renew your certification, the upcoming CPR/AED training class meets your needs. The class will be held Tuesday, October 29 from 6:00 to 9:00 PM. The cost is $45.00 for Adult/Child CPR training and AED (defibrillator) training and can be paid the night of the class. For an additional $5.00, participants can also learn Infant CPR.

Sign up today! To register for CPR/AED certification and/or renewal, please contact Beth Irwin at beth@epworth.com or sign up on the Opportunities Page.

Osteoporosis: The “Thin Bone” Disease

Epworth Health Ministries

Scripture by Heart - Saturday Class! “Scripture by Heart? How do you do that?

I could never learn to do that!”

Sure you can!

There are many ways to learn to tell the stories of the Bible, but the main avenue is through your heart. Let the Spirit in and everything comes together!

The next Scripture by Heart training class is Saturday, November 16 from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM. Bring an open heart, a willing spirit, and a sense of adventure!

Sign up on the Opportunities Page, or contact Beth Irwin at 419.531.4236 or beth@epworth.com.

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Body Recall + (Plus) offers you a regular workout including weight-lifting, aerobic activity, and floor exercise 3 times a week in a safe, clean environment. You monitor your own comfort and work out with others who want to stay fit for life. Being fit keeps you comfortable in your own body, so life is more pleasurable.

A body that is fit can respond with action to those needs you perceive in the world around you. If you have been thinking about improving your level of fitness (who doesn’t want to improve?), join a class, become stronger, more flexible, and improve your balance and ability to get on (and off) the floor. Classes meet Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays at 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM in the Family Life Center (FLC).

Contact instructors Brenda or Pam at the Church office with questions. Or just come and try a few classes to find out for yourself how regular exercise changes you!

Early Response Team TrainingCaring Christian Presence in the Aftermath of Disaster

Can you be part of a team that helps people in disaster situations? Then signup to attend the ERT Training on Saturday, November 9 here at Epworth.

The UMCOR/UMVIN Early Response Team (ERT) is the second group into a disaster area, after the first responders (“lights and sirens”) have secured the area.

The ERT’s purpose is to help the survivors dig out and cope with the new reality of a disaster situation. The important psychological part of this job is listening to the stories of the survivors and consoling their losses. The physical role is limited to removing debris to provide access to homes, initial cleanup, removal of damaged material, and limited temporary repairs such as tarping roofs to prevent further damage. No other repair or reconstruction is done. Time in the field is limited to 3 days.

Epworth will sponsor this training session on Saturday, November 9 from 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM. When you complete the session, you will be certified to enter designated disaster areas to help with initial cleanup efforts.

The cost is $35.00 per person, which covers training materials, lunch, and a required background check. For more information, contact Denny Brengartner.

Sitter Clinic for Kids Age 12 and OlderEpworth provides sitters for meetings here at Church and most events and services. If you are at least 12 years old and would be interested in sitting for Epworth events or added to a list given to Epworth families to sit in their homes, plan to attend the next Sitter Clinic on Sunday, November 3 at 12:15 PM in the nursery.

We will go over expectations and safety procedures for childcare here at Epworth. This is NOT a first aid course. You are encouraged to sign up for that on your own through the Red Cross or the library, or you may sign up for the class offered here at Epworth on Tuesday, October 29 from 6:00 to 9:00 PM (see details on page 8).

There is a form to be signed by a parent before coming to this sitter clinic. Please contact the Education office for the form to register for this clinic.

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the year. The new budget reflects an annual increase of around 3% of the total expenses.

Dividing the budget increase by the number of families who give (“giving units”), each family would be asked to increase its pledge by about $100 per year. That’s an average of about $2.00 per week, per giving unit.

The pennies, nickels, dimes and quarters that often fruitlessly accumulate throughout the week could drastically improve the well being of the Epworth family. We hope you will find it in your hearts to give what you can and be mindful that in many facets, you posses the change that Epworth needs.

In Christ,

Keith Burmeister

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S.W.A.T. ITALIAN NITEThursday, October 17 at 5:30 PMEpworth Family Life Center. We will have a reserved table for Singles.

SINGLES HALLOWEEN PARTYFriday, October 18 at 6:30 PMNancy Hauer’s house. Bring a soup, salad, or dessert to share. Wear a costume, mask, or silly hat (optional). RSVP to Linda Coon.

COFFEE & SUCHTuesdays, October 29 at 5:30 PMBarry Bagels (on Sylvania Avenue and Holland Sylvania Road, behind Handel’s).

COOKING FOR ONEWednesday, October 30 at 6:00 PMFor all singles (men AND women) in the Epworth Kitchen. Cost is $15/person plus

a list of grocery items (to be e-mailed to you).

You will be making 5 freezer meals to take home. Vegetarian meals are available. RSVP to Linda Coon with your NAME, PHONE #, E-MAIL and if you would prefer a vegetarian grocery list.

LUNCH BUNCHTuesday, November 12 at NoonExecutive Diner (Sylvania Avenue near Douglas). RSVP to Linda Coon or Miss Kate.

NOVEMBER REGULAR MEETINGFriday, November 15 at 6:30 PMLinda Coon’s house. Bring an appetizer to share. Beverages and desserts will be provided. Game night again! RSVP to Linda Coon.

*Remember to bring items for the Blessings Department.

Epworth [adult Singles ]Adult singles ages 30+ are invited to participate. You do not have to be a member of Epworth to join in the Christian Fellowship, meet new friends, and enrich your Christian journey while helping those in need through our outreach projects.

For more information, contact Linda Coon or Miss Kate. You may also sign up for any of our activities on the Opportunities Page inside your weekly Reminders Bulletin.

New Group! Sunday Singles DinnersSunday, October 20 at 1PM

Bravo! Cucina Italiana5001 Monroe Street

Sunday, October 27 at 1PMEddie Lee’s

4700 Nantucket Drive

Sunday, November 3 at 1PMMancy’s Italian

5453 Monroe Street

Sunday, November 10 at 1PMOutback Steakhouse5200 Monroe Street

Sunday, November 17 at 1PMRosie’s Italian Grille606 N. McCord Road

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Friends in FaithSunday School

Join us for Sunday School in Room 213. We meet every Sunday morning in Room 213 at 9:45. Check the Sunday Morning Education Section for information about our current study. New members or visitors are welcome at any time.

BUNCOOnce every month the Friends in Faith women gather at one of our homes for an evening of fellowship, food and Bunco. The hostess of the month provides the main course and everyone else is asked to bring a side dish, appetizer or dessert to share. We start at 6:30 PM. The next opportunities to join us are: • November 20 at Linda Coon’s house. RSVP

to Linda.• December 11 at Karen Wykoff’s house. RSVP

to Karen.

Friends in Faith Book Club Everyone is welcome to join us for the Book Club. We serve up lively discussion and dessert with every meeting beginning at 7:00 PM! The next opportunities to join us are:• October 29 - We will discuss Defending Jacob,

by William Landay and will meet at Linda Coon’s house.

• December 3 - We will discuss Inferno, by Dan Brown and will meet at Linda Coon’s house.

• January 28 - We will discuss Killing Jesus, by Bill O’Reilly and will meet at Linda Coon’s house.

What is Heifer International?Heifer international, based in Little Rock, AK, is a not profit, humanitarian organization dedicated to ending world hunger and saving the earth by providing livestock, trees, training and other resources to help poor families in the USA and around the globe. Since its inception in 1944, Heifer has been a force for making people self-reliant.

How does the program put faith into action?The Heifer project puts faith into action with its time-proven principle of “passing the gift”. That is, every family who receives livestock agrees to pass on one or more of its animal’s first offspring to another neighbor in need. Your donation pays for livestock and technical training in animal management and care. Your gift is used to purchase heifers, llamas, goats, tree seedlings, honey bees, pigs and chickens – to name a few. The partnership between Heifer International and Epworth spans over a decade.

How does Heifer evaluate the results of the program?Recipient groups define their own needs, set goals and plan appropriate strategies to achieve their goals. Heifer provides guidelines for planning the project (including the passing on the gift process) and conducting self-evaluations. Groups are responsible for submitting semi-annual monitoring reports to Heifer.

May I dedicate my gift?Yes, donor cards can be sent to the person(s) you name, showing that you made a symbolic gift in the name of the person you designate. This is a great gift idea for those hard-to-buy for people on your list. The Heifer giving model provides a wonderful lesson for children.Look for us in the cloister the end of November.

Heifer ProjectDonor cards can be sent to the person(s) you name, showing that you made a symbolic gift (of a heifer, goat, flock of chickens, etc.) in the name of the person you designate. This is a great gift idea for those hard-to-buy for people on your list. The Heifer giving model provides a wonderful lesson for your children. Stop by the information table in the cloister the end of November.

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Epworth 2013 Christmas CardEveryone is invited to sign up to be listed on Epworth’s 4th Annual Christmas Card. Proceeds from the $10 sign up donation will go to our sister church, The University Church. Your name/family name will be typeset on the inside of the card as you instruct.

The cover of the Epworth Christmas Card will be designed by a church member (see below). The card will be mailed from the church to the Epworth mailing list (over 800) in early December.

You may sign up to be listed on the card in the cloister at the Christmas Card table, OR, send a check for $10 to the church office specifying how you want your name/family listed in the card by Monday, November 11.

There are just three Sundays available to sign up: • October 20• October 27• November 3

Don’t procrastinate and be left off the card! It’s an easy way for you to wish your entire Epworth family a very Merry Christmas and support the University Church at the same time!

Calling ALL ArtistsAny Epworth member is encouraged to submit original artwork to be considered for the front of the Epworth Christmas card by Sunday, October 27. Please use festive holiday colors on a 6” x 9” paper (vertical or horizontal).

Entries may be turned in to Nancy in the Church office. Questions? Contact Laura Ingersoll.

Hams for Christmas St. Paul’s Community Center is in need of hams for the special Christmas Dinner they will serve to a large gathering of hungry folks in our community. Our goal is to provide 40 football-sized hams. Hams can be placed in the refrigerator in the kitchen (please mark “St. Paul’s Ham”) from Sunday, December 1 through Sunday, December 20.

Adopt-a-FamilyAdopt-a-Family InformationThis year many Toledo area families will be struggling to provide Christmas to their children. The Adopt-a-Family program gives us the opportunity to provide gifts and food to families recommended by the Salvation Army and FOCUS. The Community Outreach Committee has received names of families from these two agencies. They range from single adults to families with one, two, three, or more children ranging in ages from newborn to teenagers.

When you adopt a family, you are asked to provide three or more gifts for each child plus a food gift certificate for the family’s Christmas dinner. Gift suggestions are provide for the FOCUS families. The Salvation Army asks that we contact the adult in the family for suggested gifts for the children. The gifts need to be delivered to the family no later than December 15.

If you are unable to personally deliver the gifts, please contact Kristi Hoffman, so that she can arrange for delivery. Having delivered gifts last year, I can assure you that it was one of the highlights of the Christmas season.

If your family, class, Circle, Wesley group, or Share group would like to participate, please contact Kristi Hoffman.

Salvation Army Bell RingersAs a Salvation Army “Bell Ringer,” you are helping to transform lives at their point of greatest need. Epworth will be manning the kettle at The Andersons General Store (Talmadge and Monroe) in one-hour shifts on Wednesday, December 11, Thursday, December 12, and Friday, December 13. This is a wonderful service project for anyone – individuals, families, Wesley and youth groups, Sunday School Classes, etc.

Collecting Bags We will be collecting bags of goods once again for FOCUS, Friendly Center, Mildred Bayer Clinic, St. Paul’s Community Center, Sunshine, and YWCA Battered Woman’s Shelter. Beginning Sunday, November 24, bags will be available in the

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Cloister with a list of requested items attached. Please take a bag (or 2 or more!!), fill, and return under the Christmas tree in the Narthex on or before Sunday, December 15.

Advent Giving RecipientsLast year our Epworth family supported local agencies during our Advent Giving program by collecting over 300 grocery bags filled with “wish list” items. With today’s economy, these charities have shared with the Community Outreach Committee that their donations are down, but their needs and requests for assistance are greater than ever.

The following information shares with you a little about the agencies we support and their mission in our community:

FOCUS (Family Outreach Community United Services, Inc.) - FOCUS is an interfaith not for profit agency working to end homelessness by promoting dignity, hope and independence. FOCUS offers transitional and permanent housing plus life skills and job development programs to help people overcome homelessness.

The Friendly Center - The Friendly Center is a multi-purpose community center serving both children and adults of the North Toledo area. It offers a wide range of programs including recreation and education. It also provides linkages to various social service programs.

Mildred Bayer Health Clinic - The Mildred Bayer Health Clinic’s purpose is to deliver medical, dental and ophthalmic service to the homeless population of the greater Toledo Area.

St Paul’s Community Center - St Paul’s Community Center provides services for the homeless and indigent. They promote self-sufficiency and assist clients in making positive independent life changes. Their atmosphere is one of caring and concern.

Sunshine - Sunshine creates loving communities for persons with developmental disabilities and their families. They provide residential, family support, clinical and vocational services.

YWCA Battered Women’s Shelter - The YWCA Battered Women’s Shelter supports women and their children as they begin new violence-free lives. The Shelter offers a

crisis intervention and 24-hour hotline. Support groups and Outreach programs are provided for women at the Shelter and in the community.

You will find the Advent Giving Bags in the Cloister beginning Sunday, November 24. The “wish lists” attached to the bags are suggestions by the agency of their needs. Feel free to pick and choose any item or items from the list. There is no right or wrong way to fill the bag!

We hope you consider picking up an extra bag this year, and maybe support an agency you didn’t know that much about until this article! If you have any questions, please contact Laura Ingersoll.

The Giving TreeYour donations of hats, scarves, mittens, and gloves of all sizes and colors will help the children from Toledo’s inner city stay warm and comfortable this winter. Donations will also go to YWCA Battered Women’s Shelter, Friendly Center, St. Paul’s Community Center, and Mildred Bayer Clinic. We have a significant need this year for Men’s items, including warm socks.

Please place items on the tree in the Narthex beginning Sunday, December 1. Please have your donations on the tree on or before Sunday, December 15. If you have any questions, please contact Laura Ingersoll.

The Friendly Center – Family Christmas PartyThe Friendly Center will be hosting a Christmas party for the children Wednesday, December 18. Presents are needed for boys and girls aged newborn through 12 years old. The value of the gift should be $10.00.

Please wrap the gift and include on the tag whether it is for a boy or a girl and the appropriate age range. There will be a box in the Cloister to place the gifts.

Please have your gifts in the box on or before Sunday, December 15 as they will be delivered on December 16. If you have any questions, please contact Laura Ingersoll.

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Treasurer’s Report October 20133rd Quarter 2013 Financial Results Continue to Show Favorable Variance Over Budget

Epworth’s income over expense for the first nine months of 2013 was $35,409 (44.5%) better than budgeted. Receipts from pledges, contributions and offerings were $33,101 (3.4%) better than budget and expenses were $2,309 (0.2%) lower than budget as shown in the table below.

JANUARY – SEPTEMBER 2013

BUDGET ACTUAL VARIANCE +/(-) VARIANCE %

RECEIPTS $962,703 $995,804 $33,101 3.40%*(Pledges, Contributions, Offerings, etc.)

EXPENSES $1,042,243 $1,039,934 $2,309 0.20%*(Operating, Apportionments, Benevolences)

NET INCOME OVER EXPENSE $(79,540) $(44,130) $35,409 44.50%

*Receipts from pledges, contributions and offerings, which represent 96% of budgeted income, are not received equally each month, with larger amounts received at the beginning as well as toward the end of the year, while operating, personnel and other expenses are more equally spread throughout the year. These factors can cause large variances on a month-to-month basis.

Through the first 9 months of 2013, we continue to sustain a pace that is ahead of budget. Our receipts normally peak in the 4th quarter due to increased giving during Thanksgiving & Christmas holiday seasons as well as remaining pledges being paid in full. We are optimistic that Epworth will finish the year on or slightly ahead of budget.

2014 expenses are expected to increase approximately 3% so it is hoped that Epworth giving will increase a like amount in order to meet our continuing obligations. The theme of 2014 Stewardship Campaign is “Living Generously.” Look for communications regarding this campaign in the mail and in the Tower.

Results of our financial performance for the total year 2013 will be published in the January Tower.

As always, please contact Treasurer, Peter Machin, if you have any questions.

More photos from our Good Works Mission Team in Athens, Ohio!

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The Epworth Artist SeriesThe Artist Series is an important part of the programming ministry at Epworth. By presenting local and regional talent, we provide events filled with music for our members as well as our community. Epworth’s Artist Series is proud to present the following concerts for the 2013 – 2014 seasons:

Carols with music written for The Canadian Brass and Choir featuring The Academy Brass Quintet

Wednesday, December 4, 2013 at 7:30 PMThis concert features the Chancel Choir and The Academy Brass Quintet. We’ll sing favorite Christmas carols and feature favorite Christmas carols as arranged for the Canadian Brass Quintet and Choir.

Winter Soiree featuringErik Dickey, Jazz Quintet

Friday February 21, 2014 at 6:30 PMErik Dickey is a long established jazz artist in the vibrant Toledo jazz community. He brings together local and international musicians to provide entertaining evenings filled with the dynamic rhythms, harmonies, and improvised melodies that are the hallmark of that uniquely American art form, jazz. Erik and his quintet can be seen at many venues in Northwest Ohio and Southeast Michigan.

The Children’s Choir of Northwest OhioSunday, March 2, 2014 at 4:00 PM

The Children’s Choir of Northwest Ohio aims to “free the musician within” by providing an extracurricular music education experience that brings children in grades 3-10, from many different schools, together to advance their singing talents, sing beautiful music together, develop friendships and team-building skills, and perform throughout the Toledo area.

Highlights of past seasons include collaborations with Perrysburg Symphony Chorale, Junior Choral Society, Lourdes University Community Choir, Maumee Community Band, The Ohio Northern University Steel Drum Band, and singer/songwriter Kerry Patrick Clark. The Children’s Choir of Northwest Ohio was invited to be a guest choir at the 2010 Southeast Ohio Children’s Choir Festival, the children’s chorus in “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat,” and sung with national recording artist Kenny Rogers on his annual Christmas show.

Please consider supporting this program with your gift. This will help us to present these concerts as free and open to the public and to use the freewill offerings taken at each one to support missions that Epworth sponsors.

The Artist SeriesI wish to support the performing arts by contributing to the current season.

_____ Partners $300 or more _____ Associates $150 - $199 _____ Benefactors $250 - $299 _____ Sponsors $100 - $149 _____ Patrons $200 - $249 _____ Friends $50 - $99

Name: _____________________________________________________ Phone: _______________________________________________________ (Please print clearly as you wish to be listed)

All contributions are tax deductible. Please include a check payable toEpworth UMC with the memo marked Artist Series, 4855 W Central Ave., Toledo, OH, 43615.

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ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED

DEADLINE FOR THE NEXT TOWER ARTICLES - MONDAY, NOVEMBER 11 AT NOON

Non ProfitU.S. Postage

PAIDToledo, OhioPermit No. 23

Epworth Student Ministries

Our Mission: To make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world!

www.EpworthSWAT.com

Questions about Epworth Student Ministries? Contact Bob Knowles at bobknowles@epworth.com or 419.509.2353 orChuck Campos at chuck@epworth.com or 419.902.2263.

Thursday, October 17 5:00 PM – SWAT Italian Nite (Youth Missions Fundraiser Dinner)Sunday, October 20 9:45 AM – Junior & Senior Sunday Morning Donuts & The Bible Confirmation Class #1 in the FLC 12:15 PM - Senior YLT Meeting with lunch 6:00 PM – Junior SWAT; 7:30 PM – Senior SWAT Sunday, October 27 9:45 AM – Junior & Senior Sunday Morning Donuts & The Bible 5:30 PM - Trunk-or-Treat and Dinner (Youth Missions Fundraiser)Friday, November 1 to NWO Chrysalis Girl’s FlightSunday, November 3Sunday, November 3 9:45 AM – Junior & Senior Sunday Morning Donuts & The Bible 6:00 PM – Junior SWAT; 7:30 PM – Senior SWAT Friday, November 8 to Senior SWAT Chicago Mission WeekendSunday, November 10Sunday, November 10 9:45 AM – Junior & Senior Sunday Morning Donuts & The Bible NO SWAT (Returning from Chicago Mission Weekend)Friday, November 15 to NWO Chrysalis Boy’s FlightSunday, November 17

4855 W. Central AvenueToledo, Ohio 43615-2337