Faith Notes November 2013

2013 has been a year in which our church theme has been “Acts of Grace.” Throughout the year the ministry team and congregational energy was focused by this theme. These are a snippet of the ways in which this congregation lived into the call to extend acts of grace in the name of Jesus:

A bought out theater of 117 seats for the community to attend 42:The Jackie Robinson Story Over 200 children hosted at FREE VBS Youth, Kaelyn Harper, organizing the annual Faith Kitchen Backpack Give-away Free Wednesday Night dinner and programing for disciples of all ages and stages Over 120 students hosted by over 60 Faith UMC members in ministry at “Camp-Read-A lot: a Faith-based

Literacy Program” 600+ “Acts of Grace” cards used to spread the good news through random acts of grace Record number of youth participating in the Annual Youth Mission trip – and climbing! Over $17,000 raised for Flat Rock as we hosted the bi-annual Flat Rock Quilt Auction Salsa, stuffed peppers and soup made and sold with hundreds of dollars in proceeds given to the Akron/

Canton Food Bank and Faith Kitchen Fostering health of body, mind and spirit through the “Run to the Resurrection” – up 10% in participants and

donations to the food pantry at Calvary Mission. SO MANY quiet acts of grace done in the name of Jesus by ALL of you each day!

On Saturday October 19th your church leaders (chairs and members of teams and committees – 40 in all and 14 of those new participants!) gathered to celebrate the fruits of this focus and to set our sights on the 2014 theme – “Seeing Christ, Being Christ.” This 2014 FUMC theme is a natural outgrowth from “Acts of Grace,” the 2013 theme, and has shaped the process and outcomes of setting goals for the coming year. Some of the guiding principles which emerged as each team shared their 2014 goals were:

Seeking to understanding each persons’ call to ministry in the name of Christ and claiming that call by the power of the Spirit for living with holy boldness.

Seeking to lean into the above by: Watching for God’s “new thing” and making plans to partner with God and one another through:

Awareness of the congregational and community needs Support from a relevant and functioning organizational structure Continuous goal-setting and evaluation Effective communication Maintenance and development of policies Responsible employment of resources Collaboration Building relationships both internally (within ministry teams and the congregation) and

externally (those who have become disconnected and in community)

We are excited to move into 2014 with an eye on what God would have us be and do. We invite you to join us in “Seeing Christ, Being Christ” in this coming year and always.

Rev. Cara Stultz Costello

FAITH NOTES Faith United Methodist Church

300 Ninth Street NW North Canton, Ohio 44720

Phone: 330.499.6040 Fax: 330.305.1600 E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.faithumchurch.org

November 2013

Circle News

Yikes! We're being invaded by time-travelers from Stan Hywet Hall in the 1920s! Will they be from upstairs or downstairs? A member of the Seiberling family? a local bluenose? the chauffeur? or maybe a lady's maid? Grab your beads and fringe and come find out! Date: Tuesday, November 12th Time:11:45 am to 2:00 pm Cost of the meal: $4/person Program: Life at Stan Hywet in the 20s Please call or email Betsy Douce with your reservation (330.494.3337 or [email protected])

no later than Thursday, November 7th.

Men meet each Thursday at 7:15 AM at Susanna’s on Main St. in North Canton.

All men are welcome. No reservations required.

Social coordinator is Dale Walters.

Circle of Faith

Circle of Faith will enjoy the Lebold's Christmas decorations on Monday,

November 11th at 9am. Please contact Esther Brunt if you would like to join the

circle on this festive occasion!

330-499-7293

Lydia Circle

will meet on Wednesday, November 13th at 12:00 pm in Robinson Hall.

This month there will be no program. Please call Emmajo Shearer for information

at 330-966-8730

Circle of Love Circle of Love will meet on Thursday,

November 21st (due to Thanksgiving) at 7:00pm. All are welcome! Please contact

Patti Deems with any questions. 330-494-7168

Get Involved!

All are welcome to come for an evening or join a circle that best meets your needs.

We would love to have you join us! Many service opportunities are available.

Over 50? Single? Looking for social interaction with other singles your age? Our group may be just what you're looking for! We are beginning our fourth year together enjoying a wide variety of adventures. On Sunday evening, November 17th at 6:00pm, we will meet in the Parlor at the church.

Bring a dish to share, and help us plan our next few month's get-togethers. Friends are always welcome. If you have questions, call Bev Temple 330-244-8518. See you then!

First Tuesday Please join us for First Tuesday on November 5, 2013 at 8:30 a.m. (new winter time) in the

Chapel for worship, prayer, and sharing. Pastor Cara will be our presenter. Then on Tuesday, December 3rd Jack O’Harrow will share a Christmas message. Every

First Tuesday we enjoy meaningful presentations and wonderful fellowship. Many of us go out for

breakfast afterwards to continue the uplift! Get up and fuel your faith on the First Tuesday of each month

Canton Calvary Mission requests for November Ramen Noodles

The Mission feeds over 500 families monthly and appreciates all donations

of non-perishable foods, personal hygiene and paper products. A

marked box is located in the gallery for contributions to the Food Pantry.

Thanks for your generous support!

Our mission is to comfort those with the prayer shawls that we lovingly create and pray over. We always welcome new and interested members. We have new yarn and extra needles/crochet hooks for anyone who would like to join us. Come and learn to knit or crochet from our talented and caring group. Meet the first Thursday of the month in the Parlor from 2-4pm.

This group meets on Tuesdays at the church in rooms 5 and 6. The hours are 9:00am to11:30 am. We are currently working on crib quilts for the Aultman Hospital NICU. Anyone wishing to help make these quilts is welcome. Come join us!!!!!

Ever wondered about Faith Kitchen? Each month Faith United Methodist Church provides an opportunity for those in need to come and have a meal, some time of worship, and a chance to receive bags of groceries. Get involved in this ministry—a tangible way to share the love and grace of God. We are looking for volunteers to

help on Fridays with set up and Food Pick Up and on Saturdays in several areas! To help on Friday, contact Bob Yoder (330.494.0332) and Saturdays, Cheryl Froelich (330.493.4097 / [email protected]) or Glenn Vanvoorhis (330.495.8323 or [email protected])

Next Faith Kitchen Opportunity: November 30th at Crystal Park UMC

Sewing for Missions will host a sewing clinic on

Saturday November 16th from 9:00am to 2:00 pm in Robinson Hall. We will make hats and scarves for Faith Kitchen and "dignity gowns" for breast cancer patients. Sewing experience is not required. We will gladly accept donations of fleece or cotton fabric, sew-on Velcro and ribbon. Please contact Sue Bell at [email protected] or 330-806-2797 to sign up

BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND - That's My Pan!® Fundraiser Faith Youth Missions is taking orders for personalized gifts

from That's My Pan!® to raise funds for the mission trip to

Frakes, Ky. You can visit our display in the Gathering Area or shop and place orders online to help us out! Order great

personalized gifts at better than retail pricing, and feel good that you are helping Youth Missions in the process.

Visit our customized site http://www.thatsmypan.biz/FROH10163

Thank you for your support. Last date to place an order is Dec 1st.

Contact Sue Bell @ 330-499-3620 or [email protected]

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

The “ACME Community Cash Back” Program is continuing through Saturday, February 8, 2014. This

program returns 5% of the cost of your Acme product line purchases back to our youth for our Mission Trip. All of your receipts need to be place in our collection boxes by Sunday, February 23.

Thank you for all of your donations!

mailto:[email protected]

http://www.thatsmypan.biz/FROH10163


How I Leaned So Far Into Myself That I Fell On My Face

I remember the morning of May 9, 2008 so clearly. On that morning we woke up extra early to drive to the hospital to meet our new son. That would be the day that joy would overflow as we would hold the little guy in our arms for the first time, kiss his forehead and see him smile. As we arrived at the hospital we were filled with excitement and anticipation but there was also a sense of unrest that we didn’t want to talk about.

After losing our daughter, Callie Grace, we were excited yet nervous about Corban entering the world. What if something didn’t go just as planned? What if there were complications? Was there something that the doctors missed that could cause us more heartache? All of these thoughts were racing through my mind but that all changed when I heard that first “little” cry come out of his mouth.

Read the full story at http://refuge-faithumc.blogspot.com/

So my question for you today is, “What does it look like to lean on God’s understanding?” As you wrestle with this question think about the choices you have made in your life that have taken you to the path you are on. Were there times that God wanted you to lean into Him but you chose to lean into your own experience, knowledge, and understanding? Is there a way to make a shift in your thinking to embrace Solomon’s words in Proverbs rather than trusting in yourself? I challenge you to be courageous enough to listen for God’s leading in your life and lean into His love for you.

Youth Mission Trip News:

We have once again starting our planning, events, and fundraising for another great mission trip in the summer of 2014. Next summer we will be traveling to Frakes, Kentucky to partner with Henderson Settlement. Here are some ways that you can help us raise the necessary funds to make this trip a possibility.

We are currently distributing M & M tubes filled with candy for you to take and enjoy at your convenience. All we ask in return is that you enjoy the candy and fill the tube back up with change, cash, or checks and return it to the church.

On Sunday, November 17th we will be hosting our bi-monthly brunch in Robinson Hall following each worship service.

Finally, back by popular demand – That’s My Pan Fundraiser! You can visit our display in the gathering area or shop and place orders online to help us out! Order great personalized gifts at better than retail pricing, and feel good that you are helping our students in the process. Simply visit the display in the gathering area, order online at http://www.thatsmypan.biz/FROH10163 or contact Sue Bell at 330-499-3620 or [email protected] with any questions you may have!

Our students are always looking for opportunities to serve others throughout the year. If you have any questions about our trip feel free to contact Susan Arnold ([email protected]) or Donny Bell ([email protected]) or Matt Hart ([email protected]). Thank you for your partnering with this life-changing ministry!

TROOP 12 UPDATE

November 2 Our Cub Scout Pow Wow Luncheon promises to be a great afternoon for 150 local area cub scouts. This will be a fundraiser for our troop’s February campout, as well as a way to share Troop 12 with the young scouts in the Canton area. We look forward to meeting many of the local boys and sharing our troop’s activities with them.

http://refuge-faithumc.blogspot.com/

http://www.thatsmypan.biz/FROH10163





The Safe Sanctuary Ministry Group has been working towards the safety of the children, youth and adults of

Faith United Methodist Church and all others who attend our many programs and services. This group is made up of 5 members of the church, Richard Baughman (Chair), Jack Baker, Patti Deems, Missy Jones and Greg Jones. Staff members include Rev. Steve Stultz-Costello, Kathy Schmucker, Sharyl Syler, and Matt Hart.

Over the next few months we will be working on getting policies, training and applications for background checks standardized and will keep everyone informed.

If you have any suggestions, concerns or questions please contact any member of the group or contact Dick Baughman at [email protected] or 330-966-3684.

FINANCIAL ENCOURAGEMENT

September was a good month. Pledged income reached 100%, church income exceeded expenses and third

quarter income (July – Sept.) was the highest in the past seven years!

The ministry teams have committed to NOT spending approximately $29,000 of their budgets for the rest of the year. This will significantly reduce the shortfall we anticipated at the

beginning of the year. The finance team is grateful to the other teams for their exceptional leadership.

Faith for Tomorrow (our campaign that launched in Sept. 2011 and ends Dec. 2014) has enabled us to pay an additional $370,000 towards our mortgage. Our current balance is less than $125,000!

Interesting trivia: From 2007 – 2012, if the church had “performed” as budgeted, the six years of deficits would have totaled negative $185,000. Our actual results were positive $400. What does that mean? While financial planning is necessary, God has the final say!

Ministry Staff Position Open Membership Secretary/Administrative Assistant

Part-time Salaried Position 25-30 Hours/Week

The Staff Parish Relations Ministry Team (SPRC) is accepting resumes for the Membership Secretary/Administrative Assistant position now through Friday, Nov. 8. This position will be 25-30 hours/week and will start after January 1 with possible training hours in December. The position is similar to the position of Coordinator of Congregational Development from which Lauralee is retiring at the end of this year.

The new position will involve more clerical/computer related responsibilities.

Please help us get the word out by sharing this ministry staff opportunity to people you know via email, Facebook, word of mouth, etc. Direct all interested persons to www.faithumchurch.org for more information. You may also come by the office to receive a hard copy of the position posting.

We give thanks for the 12 years of faithful service on staff by Lauralee Stiffler and wish her well in her retirement.


http://www.faithumchurch.org

Laura Tabacchi will turn 90 on November 2nd

Edwina Burt will turn 91 on November 22nd

James Riddle will turn 90 on November 22nd

We extend out deepest sympathy to: Jan Hetherington Gosiewski on the death of her husband, Paul. Kathy Smitley and Kim Sigler on the death of their step-father, Paul Gosiewski. Jan Heidenriech on the death of her mother.

Russell Aldridge and Lydia Rubio were married on September 21, 2013 Chad Lukens and Jennifer Hoggatt were married on October 19, 2013

Stephen Ministry is bringing Christ's healing love to those who are hurting and the results are

life-changing. Following is one man's story about what the Stephen Ministry program has meant to him: "I was devastated to learn that my wife was filing for divorce. As I sat alone in my pew the following Sunday morning, a familiar slide came up. It was about the Stephen Ministry program and I felt that it was speaking right at me. My Stephen Minister was persistent and consistent, making every effort to be there. He walked with me for the next two years, refusing to give up on me. During our

time together, my Stephen Minister was devoted to listening to me, asking questions which would lead to discussions, or just letting me ramble. He was everything that I felt that a loving God would be---always open and honest. He showed me that God does care. God's shoulders are broad. It's OK to be mad at God---God can take it. My Stephen Minister let that come out so that I could be open to the Grace and Mercy of Jesus Christ. The Stephen Ministry program and my Stephen Minister not only saved my life, but changed my life. I will be forever grateful.”

On Sunday, October 13th, the Worship/Arts Study Group made a brief presentation in each of the three worship services followed by an announcement by the Staff Parish Relations Committee. The Worship/Arts Group was able to report the completion of their study over the past year and the results of submitting their report to the Staff Parish Relations Committee, the Finance Ministry Team, and the Church Board. The result of all those meetings was the approval of the report and the undertaking of the task to support the vision it embodies financially. The Staff Parish Relations Report announced the proposed creation of a new full time staff position designated as Worship Coordinator, the creation of all new job descriptions for the other identified functions to support our worship experiences: choir directors of the Chancel, Joy Unlimited, Carol and Cherub choirs, organist, praise team band leader, and praise service keyboardist. The intent is to respond over the next six weeks to congregational questions about this new initiative, work with our present staff to maintain their valued efforts during this transition and to have in place the new staff configuration by July 1, 2014. The process used in this proposed staff revision was the same devised during the Hugh Ballou consultation for the hiring of new persons upon Patti Deems and Trudy Jones’ retirement along with hiring of a new Director of Youth Ministries and a Communications Coordinator. An informational session was held on Tuesday, October 29 and other opportunities will be offered to explain this vision further to the congregation as we together move toward the realization of this vision. Please continue to keep this process, the church and staff in your prayers. Jim Skinner, Convener of the Worship/Arts Study Group

Weaving Faith Into Life Wednesday Night Faith Connections is a mid-week

opportunity for fellowship, fun and study. The evening begins with a meal and worship experience at 6:00 pm followed by programs and studies for kids and adults.

There are several opportunities to serve on Wednesday nights. For information on how you can volunteer, contact Kathy Schmucker, Sandy Vaughn or Mike Hubble.

All are welcome! Invite your friends, come join the fun and get connected at Faith!

Wednesday Night Schedule

5:00/5:15—6:00 pm: Children’s Choirs 6:00 pm: Dinner/Worship for kids and adults! All are welcome! 6:30—7:30 pm: Faith Kids, Grades K-5 7:30—8:00 pm: Faith Kids Extended 6:30—8:00 Adult Groups (Please check the calendar as starting times for adults will vary.)

November Special Wednesday Night Events: November 6: Operation Christmas Child Shoe Box Packing Party November 13: Special Guest, Shaffa Seward, Missionary from Camphor November 20: Learn about serving as an Acolyte

Be sure to watch for information about our upcoming Advent and Christmas activities and resources!

Contributions to support Faith’s Wednesday Night Ministry are much appreciated to help stretch the

generous contribution from Faith’s Endowment Ministry Team which is enabling us to provide this ministry without cost to families. Look for the donation tags at the display outside the church office and Family Life Center!

3 section plastic plates, paper dessert plates and bowls paper cups, to go containers plastic knives, forks, spoons

Wednesday Night Faith Connections will be packing shoe boxes for Operation Christmas Child. A donation box is available outside the church office and Family Life Center for anyone who would like to contribute to our children’s mission project! Special thanks to Faith’s Service in Mission Ministry Team for their support of this children’s mission project!

TOYS: small cars, balls, dolls, stuffed animals, kazoos, harmonicas, yo-yos, jump ropes, small Etch ASketch®,

toys that light up or make noise (with extra batteries), Slinky®, etc. SCHOOL SUPPLIES: pens, pencils and sharpener, crayons or markers, stamps and ink pad sets, writing pads or

paper, solar calculators, coloring and picture books, etc. HYGIENE ITEMS: toothbrush, toothpaste, mild bar soap (in a plastic bag), comb, washcloth, etc.

OTHER: Plastic Shoebox containers, Monetary donations, Hard candy and lollipops (please double bag all candy),

mints, gum, T-shirts, socks, ball caps; sunglasses, hair clips, toy jewelry, watches, flashlights (with extra batteries)

Operation Christmas Child Shoe Box Packing Party Wednesday, November 6th at 6:30 pm (Join us for dinner at 6:00!)

Reach out to children around the world with the love of Christ.

Small Groups and Sunday School Classes for Fall and our Church-Wide Study, The Story Several small groups meet for Bible study, prayer, & discussion throughout the week. Check out our website for updated information and registration form. Look for the Christian Education & Spiritual Formation ministry display in the Gathering Area and outside the Family Life Center. If you are interested in getting involved in a small group or leading a new group contact Kathy Schmucker for more information.

The Story Small Group & Sunday School Classes Sunday at 9:45am—Faith Meets Life, The Story, Kim Reynolds & Steve Golden, Facilitators, West Parlor Sunday at 11:00am—The Story in Room 16

Monday at 10:30 am—The Story—Sandy Vaughn, Facilitator, West Parlor Monday at 6:30pm—Young Adults, The Story: How Does God’s Story Impact Our Story Today, Coordinator: Sarah Snyder, Rm 5 Monday at 7:00 pm—The Story Digging Deeper, Bob Kuchner, James & Terry Morgan, Facilitators, West Parlor Wednesday at 6:00pm—Dinner & Worship, Robinson Hall Wednesday at 6:45pm—The Story Continued—Pastors Steve & Cara, Facilitators, West Parlor

Additional Small Group & Sunday School Class Opportunities: Sunday at 9:45am—Faith Bible Study, Genesis to Revelation, Facilitator: Bob Snyder, Conference Room Monday at 7:00pm—Covenant Bible Study, Contact: Rob & Tory Christian, Rm 16 Monday at 7:00pm—Meditation Class, Facilitator: John Buchanan, Rm 8 Tuesday at 6:00am—Men’s Prayer Group, Contact Person: Ron Luikart, Balcony Tuesday at 8:30am beginning in November—First Tuesday Prayer Service, Contact Person: Jan Baker, Chapel the first Tuesday of each month Tuesday at 6:30pm—Women’s Study: Daniel: Lives of Integrity, Laura Luikart & Sue Bell, Facilitators, West Parlor Wednesday at 9:00am—Women’s Study: Living Beyond Yourself: Exploring Fruits of the Spirit, Linda Reynolds Facilitator, West Parlor Wednesday at 6:00pm—Dinner & Worship, Robinson Hall Wednesday at 6:30pm—New Member Class Wednesday at 7:00pm—Art & Spirituality, Pastor Steve, Facilitator Friday at 6:00pm—Friday Night Out, 2nd Friday of the month (Develop the Heart Date Night), Tallie Paz Coordinator Saturday at 7:00 am—Men’s Life Study, Not a Fan, alternating Saturdays November 9 & 23, Variety’s Restaurant in North Canton, Kim Reynolds, Facilitator

Interested in forming a new group?

See Kathy Schmucker for ideas and to get your group on our fall schedule!

Want to learn more about nurturing your faith? For more information or questions about faith formation opportunities and resources or about starting or getting involved in a small group, prayer group, or Bible study experience at Faith UMC, visit our website or contact Kathy Schmucker, Faith’s Director of Christian Education & Spiritual Formation. 330-499-6040, [email protected]


As our church digs into the chronological exploration of the Bible through The Story this fall, you might be inspired to pick up your Bible and explore God’s word in new ways.

Look for Bible study and spiritual practice resources and resources to complement The Story in the literature racks in the hallways, on our website and in our church library!

Learn more about Bible Study Apps, various Bible translations and the Wesleyan Quadrilateral, YouVersion and GloBible are apps that enable you to download the Bible for use even when you don’t have internet access.

Be sure to also check out the Faith Formation blog for weekly devotions based on The Story!

Copies of all versions of The Story resources are also available for purchase. Look for the display outside the church office and Family Life Center.

Stop by the literature rack in the Gathering Area and outside the Youth Room & Family Life Center for devotional resources and faith formation re-sources for parents and grandparents.

Visit Faith’s Library/Media Center to explore additional resources to help you dig deeper into the sermon messages and small group studies!

Sunday School at Faith UMC “Grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.”- 1 Peter 3:18

Join us as together we grow and learn to KNOW, LOVE & SERVE the Lord!

The Story for Kids: Faith Nursery, Room 18, 8:30, 9:45, & 11:00 Babies and Woddlers (birth through age 3) are cared for in a nurturing environment where little ones experience God’s love.

Children’s Sunday School at 9:45 & 11:00 am, Following Children’s Message Preschool Ages 3-5 – Room 20 Grades K-2 – Room 6 Grades 3-5 – Room 8

Out of the Box Youth Grades 6-12 at 9:45 & 11:00 am in the Youth Room Adults @ 9:45: The Story: Faith Meets Life in the West Parlor

Faith Bible Study: Genesis to Revelation in the Conference Room

Adults @ 11:00: The Story in Room 16

**Please stop by the Children’s Welcome Station near the Sanctuary and Family Life Center to sign in children, make their Sunday School name tags, and find information for families! Look for Family Devotions and Weekly Parent Pages on our Story website for suggestions and ideas to share The Story at home with your family!

Can an hour or two of your time matter in the life of a child and the future of our church?

Impact a Generation with the Love of Christ!

Our Baptismal vows remind us of our call to do all we can to nurture the faith formation and spiritual growth of our children and families. Sunday School and Wednesday Night Faith Connections are two of the ways in which we have a tremendous opportunity to touch the lives of our children and families with the love of Christ. We have children who are excited to experience God and are still in need of a few volunteers to step up to serve as leaders and helpers so that we can nurture their faith journeys.

Preschool: 4th Sunday of the month at 9:45 and 11:00.

Grades K-2: 2nd Sunday of the month at 11:00. Grades 3-5: 1

st Sunday of the month at 11:00

Grades 3-5: 4th Sunday of the month at 9:45 and 11:00.

Nursery openings several Sundays during the month. Wednesday Nights Faith Connections Children’s Small

Group Leaders, Wednesdays from 6-8pm Date Night children and adult small group leaders, 2nd

Friday of each month.

For more information, see the sign-up sheets at the displays outside the church office and Family Life Center or contact Sandy Vaughn, Kristin Krach, Tallie Paz or Kathy Schmucker.

Holiday Shopping? Virtual Bookstore Do your holiday shopping online and support the ministries of Faith UMC! Faith’s Education & Spiritual Formation Ministry Team is excited to invite you to check out our Virtual Bookstore! Visit our website and click on the special links to Cokesbury & Amazon! All purchases made through these online links will help support our ministries! Check out our recommendations lists for resources to enhance your study of the Bible and aid in your personal spiritual journey!

(Faith Date Night) Friday, November 8 6pm-8:45pm

Faith UMC has a strong desire to focus on nurturing family relationships through faith. This fall, we invite

anyone: singles, adult couples (engaged, newly married or seasoned marriages) to come join us for a

short program focusing on nurturing family relationships, followed by an evening of childcare

(ages birth-6th grade) while you enjoy some time to yourselves to focus on the relationships in your life.

For more information contact please contact: Tallie Paz at [email protected] or Kathy Schmucker at [email protected] with questions or if you'd like to be involved in any way with this ministry!

Advent Devotional Book Faith is a journey. Faith United Methodist Church

is a congregation on a journey seeking to be a dynamic, growing community that gathers around Christ in Word and Worship to pray, learn, care,

share, and serve together. Sharing our stories as we journey into faith is one of the characteristics

that makes for a vibrant faith community. This Advent, as you reflect on the significance of

Christ’s birth, we invite you to share your faith story. Contact Pam Wig or Kathy Schmucker

ASAP if you are interested in writing a devotion for this year’s Advent book.

Thanksgiving Blessing Tree Materials: Bible, foam craft in a variety of fall colors, permanent marker, branch or artificial tree Gather the above materials & use a leaf pattern to cut several leaves from the foam craft.

On Thanksgiving Day, ask each person to spend some time considering how God has blessed them during

the past year. Talk about why it’s important for us to remember what God has done for us. Consider reading Joshua 4:1-24 as a family (or another favorite Bible story illustrating God’s provision), sharing about times during the past year when God’s presence and touch were evident in your lives.

Give each person a leaf and have them write something for which they are thankful for on one side of the

leaf, the year and their name on the other side.

As you gather around the dinner table, ask each person to share what they have written on the leaf.

Hang each person’s leaf on a branch of the tree.

Pray together as a family thanking God for the many ways He has blessed each of you, your family, your

community, and our world over the past year.

Save the leaves and use the tree as a centerpiece for future Thanksgiving celebrations, remembering God’s

blessings from year to year as well as those whom have shared in your Thanksgiving celebrations each year.

What traditions help you to practice thanksgiving and celebrate God's blessings in your life? “Give praise to the LORD, proclaim his name; make known among the nations what he has done. Sing to him, sing praise to him; tell of all his wonderful acts. Glory in his holy name; let the hearts of those who seek the LORD rejoice. Look to the LORD and his strength; seek his face always. Remember the wonders he has done…” Psalm 105:1-5a

For additional devotions, ideas and suggestions for spiritual practices visit our Faith Formation Blog or contact Kathy Schmucker, Director of Christian Education & Spiritual Formation!



"Catch the Spirit" Canton Calvary Mission; Annual Benefit Dinner and Auction; Friday, November 8th; First Christian Church, Mar-ket Ave. N.; Tickets $30 ($15 goes to Mission); Casual dress with a favorite "team theme". Silent Auction begins 5:30pm, Dinner served 7:00; For tickets contact Sharon Jacot (330-494-5067) or the Mission (330-454-8610).

Thanksgiving is right around the corner. Make your meal complete by purchasing a UMW pumpkin pie or rice pudding. Sign up in the gathering area or outside the FLC now through Nov. 17. Pies can be picked up Nov. 24 after each of the services. Prices are Pumpkin Pie($8.00) and Rice Pudding (Lg. $8.00, Sm $4.00). Proceeds continue to help us be Sisters in Service. Thank you for your support.

The World Thank Offering will be collected Nov. 24 in the marked boxes located in the Narthex or outside of the FLC. We thank you for your generous support.

Is there someone you know who you feel would be deserving of the UMW Special Mission Recognition Pin? Nomi-nation forms can be found in the UMW Mailbox and turned in by Dec.15. Thank you for your careful consideration.

Please support the United Methodist Women with our annual Cookie Walk on December 8th.

Homemade cookies will be on sale in the gathering area following all three services and will be sold by the dozen. Proceeds will benefit local and global UMW missions.

Calling all bakers! We need bakers to donate 6 dozen of your favorite homemade cookies.

Cookies can be dropped off in the Robinson Hall kitchen on Friday, December 6th from 9 am to 4 pm or Saturday, December 7th from 10 am to noon. Please indicate if your cookies contain nuts. Thank you

for your support. Questions? Contact Kathy Myers at 330-361-4624.

WHAT IS IN HERB’S BUCKET? Matthew 25:29 “To all those who have, more will be given, and they will

have an abundance; but from those who have nothing, even what they have will be taken away.”

You won’t find “Nuts and Bolts” in Herb’s bucket at the NOVEMBER 19th LEADERSHIP TRAINING. But you might find seeds, gardening supplies, produce and that sort of thing . And, who is Herb, anyway? Information about “Nuts and Bolts” will be presented, though. What are “Nuts and Bolts”? “Nuts and Bolts” are the tools we need to run our ministries. They involve finances, policy, communication, resources, care

for one another and so much more.

All current church leaders and new leaders for 2014, as well as interested members of the congregation, are encour-aged to COME AND DIG IN at the annual “Nuts and Bolts” leadership training on Tuesday, November 19th from 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. Plan to arrive at 6:45 p.m., so that we can begin promptly at 7:00 p.m. All current ministry team leaders and lay leaders have a black 3 inch 3 ring binder with a cover that shows Faith Church during the four different seasons. Please bring this with you or send it along with a member of your ministry team, as we will be add-ing to its contents.

By planting and nurturing the seeds of ministry through careful preparation and planning, we can leave a legacy with the harvest that we produce here at Faith United Methodist Church! Contact Lauralee Stiffler by Sunday November 10th if you will need childcare for your children. 330-499-6040, ext. 13 or [email protected]

November 24 is United Methodist Student Day, the last Church wide Special Sunday in

the United Methodist Church in 2013. Every year the United Methodist Church supports college students through loans and

scholarships. Thanks to the United Methodist Student Day offering, qualified and deserving United Methodists can continue their education as they discern God’s plans for them. In addition to providing scholarships, the special offering helps fund our church’s educational loan program, which allows students to borrow up to $5,000 per year for college at 3.75 percent interest. Students begin repaying the loan in 90 days at $50 a month rather than deferring repayment until after graduation or withdrawal from school. This not only reduces the total amount the student must pay back, but the earlier payment schedule protects the investment of the faithful United Methodists who donate to the loan programs. The earlier repayment option could mean more students get loans and allows students to keep track of the debt they are incurring. Please consider giving to this special offering. For more information, go to www.gbhem.org.


http://www.gbhem.org/

Areas they have focused on:

Medical Needs Physical Fitness Health & Nutrition Accessibility to people with disabilities Care of the Environment Mental Health Library of Resources

Some projects done:

Durable medical equipment closet First aid kits in all kitchens, office, and education

area Bike Rack Ride your bike to church Sunday Gluten free communion Changes in sanctuary pews to accommodate

wheel chairs Recently starting an exercise class for church

members and community

In order for the Health & Wellness Ministry Group to continue, they will need someone who is willing to chair the

team for 2014. The team was started about 3 years ago and they have been working on supporting and enhancing the health and wellness of our congregation and the community. Time Commitment: Meet monthly or as needed (currently have 8-10 members attending)

If interested in chairing this group, contact Betsy Gorrell (330.352.7230) or any member of the Health & Wellness Ministry Group.

Help Share how God is moving at Faith UMC! WE NEED YOU!!

The 2013 Living Faith Publication will be published in

January of 2014 and will include highlights of ministry teams, groups and updated finances from all of 2013. We are excited to continue to improve and message all the incredible and exciting ways God is moving here at Faith UMC. If you would

like to be part of creating, editing, and publishing this year’s Living Faith—contact Alison Wright, Communications Ministry Team Chair at 330.526.8029 / [email protected] or contact Carmie Johnson, Communications Co-ordinator at 330.499.6040 / [email protected]. We need people who enjoy writing, photography, photo editing, graphic design, and more! Come learn more at our next meeting on November 14 at 6pm in Rm 8.

ALL ARE WELCOME!! Ministry Teams Reminder: All ministry teams are asked to submit any pictures, stories, team/group photos to

[email protected] no later than December 1st. Extra “story” forms can be found by Carmie Johnson’s desk in the church office or submitted online at www.faithumchurch.org and look under resources.

Display Case in the Gathering Area

We are currently looking for someone who is interested in coordinating the Display Case in the Gathering Area. If you would be interested in managing and recruiting ministry teams and people to update the Display Case and/or decorating the displace case when it is not scheduled, please contact Carmie Johnson at [email protected] or 330.499.6040 x12. If your ministry team is interested in using the Display Case, contact Carmie Johnson to schedule a time! Thanks!

Community Christmas needs helpers to sort

toys and to be personal shoppers on distribution days which are December 11, 12 and 13. Even if your time is limited to just several hours, it will be a big help. We hope to help 800+ families. For more information, call Jake Lebold at

330.499.6098. Also, we are still in need of clean, used toys and Christmas trees and decorations. Thank You!

The Giving Tree will be in the Gathering Area beginning

December 1. It will have 125 names of children or nursing home residents that are disadvantaged or have very limited resources. The tags have the ages and sizes. If you take a tag please limit the gift to $25 or less. Wrap the gift and tape the tag on the outside. All gifts can be placed under the Giving Tree and we will see it gets to Community Christmas. Thank you so much! Stu & Emma McKenzie and Jake & Lynda Lebold

Coats for Christmas an outreach of ‘A Community

Christmas’, is now accepting donations for gently used or new coats. All donations can be placed in the boxes in the Gallery off of the Gathering Area. Donations can be made until December 12.

To Carol Not To Carol

Malls and radio stations, even Christian radio stations, have been playing Christmas carols since right

after Halloween.

In the church calendar, Christmas doesn’t actually start until Christmas. The four prior Sundays make up a time called Advent, a time of waiting and preparation before Christmas, with its own

songs and liturgies.

“It’s just a bummer to go to church week after week and never hear carols until Christmas Eve,” notes David Lose, a professor at Luther Seminary in St. Paul and author of Making Sense of the Christian Faith. “I think we ought to

lighten up a little.”

“We would not sing Christ the Lord is Risen Today on Good Friday, notes the Rev. Taylor Burton-Edwards, director of Worship Resources for the General Board of Discipleship of the United

Methodist Church.

Pushing Christmas songs off until December 24 doesn’t leave much time for enjoying them or teaching them to children.

Let’s all come to church during the Season of Christmas! In this seasons (12 days) we will belt out “Joy to the World” at the

top of our lungs.

Christmas is a remembrance. Jesus was born over 2,000 years ago. He is born in us new each day. Let’s celebrate,

let’s sing those carols!

Churches can invite people to wait and hope as a spiritual discipline. Ideally, Advent services can make people revel in the joy of

anticipation by waiting to sing Christmas carols.

To Carol or Not to Carol…This is the Question

Church folks have different perspectives on the singing of Christmas carols during the season of Advent. Here are some of the reasons “To Carol” or “Not to Carol”.

Both of these perspectives have merit. So, at Faith UMC in this Season of Advent, we are going to experience a “Taste of What is to Come”. Each Sunday of Advent, 10 minutes prior to each of the three worship services, we will sing three favorite

Christmas carols. Come early...sing to celebrate “What is to Come!”

Holiday Happenings

Meet our

New Members! Judy Zeiger

Jan Grubish

Luke & Raena Carpenter

being received on January 19

Mike & Sharon McConnell

We are so excited to introduce to your our newest members! Please be sure to reach out and say hello when you see them

on Sundays or at other events!

Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat

EVERY SUNDAY

5:30p Joy Unlimited

6:30p REFUGE

1 2

3 Communion, All

Saints Sunday

Pastor Steve preaching

8:30 Organ Offertory

9:45 Praise Team

11:00 Chancel Choir

9:45 & 11:00 Sunday School

1:00 Charge Conference

7:30 Praise Band Rehearse

4

8:00a Fall Fitness Class

10:30a “Story” Bible Study

6:30p Young Adults

7:00p Covenant Bible Study

7:00p Meditation Class

7:00p Men’s Basketball

7:00p Evening Bible Study

5

6:00a Men’s Prayer Group

8:00a First Tuesday

9:00a Quilts to Share

9:30a Celebration Bells

9:30a Library Read to FFPS

1:30 UMW Board Meeting

6:30p Women’s Bible Study

7:00p Boy Scouts

68:00a Fall Fitness Class

9:00a Women’s Study

5:00p Carol Choir

5:15p Cherub Choir

6:00p Faith Connections

6:30p Sewing for Missions

7:00p “The Story” cont.

7:00pArt & Spirit Class

7:30p Chancel Choir

7

12:00p Library Volunteers

2:00p Prayer Shawl

Ministry

8

Scout Camp Out

Through Sunday

6:30p Friday Night Out

9 7:00a Men’s Life Study

10 8:30 Buck Stultz preach

9:45 Praise Team

11:00 Chancel Choir,

Veteran’s Recognition


11:00 Youth Ministry Plan-

7:00 “The Story” Sml Group

8:00 Men’s Chorus

11


6:30p Young Adults





12





11:45 Second Wind

1:30p UMW Board Meeting


13


12:00p Lydia Circle

5:00p Carol Cherub Choirs


6:30p New Member Class


7:30p Chancel Choir

14


2:00p Faith Stitchers

6:30 Stephen Ministry

7:00p Stewardship Team

15 16 9:00a Sewing For Missions

Sewing Clinic

17 Pastor Cara preaching

8:30

9:45 Praise Team

11:00 Chancel Choir




8:00 Men’s Chorus

18


6:30p Young Adults











6:30p Finance Meeting

7:00p Leadership Training


12:00p Lydia Circle

5:00p Carol & Cherub Choirs


6:30p New Member Class

6:30p Sewing for Missions


7:30p Chancel Choir

21


1:00p Alzheimer’s Support

2:00p Faith Stitchers

6:30 Stephen Ministry

7:00p Trustees

22 23

7:00a Men’s Life Study

24 Pastor Cara preaching

8:30

9:45 Praise Team

11:00 Chancel Choir




8:00 Men’s Chorus

25

10::30a “Story” Bible Study

6:30p Young Adults











6:30p Finance Meeting

7:00p Boy Scouts


5:00p Carol & Cherub Choirs



7:30p Chancel Choir

7:00p Art & Spirit Class

28

Happy Thanksgiving

29 Office Closed

30

2013 2013

Worship with Us: Sunday Services: 8:30, 9:45, & 11:00 Sunday School: 9:45 & 11:00

Get to Know Us: Reverends Steve & Cara Stultz Costello, Co-Pastors Sharyl Syler—Dir. of Administration & Finance Carmie Johnson—Communications Coordinator Kathy Schumucker—Dir. of Christian Ed. & Spiritual Formation Matt Hart—Dir. of Youth Ministry Lauralee Stiffler—Coordinator,Congregational Development Jan Bilek—Treasurer Susan Arnold—Youth Anministrator Alina Dorto—Dir. of Faith Friends Preschool

Contact Us: Phone: 330.499.6040 Fax: 330.305.1600 Email: [email protected] Website: www.faithumchurch.org

Faith United Methodist Church 300 Ninth Street NW North Canton, OH 44720

FAITH NOTES Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage Paid Canton, OH Permit No. 1809

Mailed October 31, 2013

Volunteer Opportunities

Quilters/Sewers

Tuesdays, 9-11:30 a.m. Rooms 5 & 6 Nan Davis, Chair

Faith Stitchers: Bring handwork

2nd, 3rd & 4th Thursdays, 2-4 p.m. in the Parlor

Bixler Library Thursdays, noon to 2 p.m.

Candy Ziegler, Chair

The Barbara Whitacre Prayer Shawl Ministry 1st Thursday, 2-4p.m. in the Parlor

Mike Fletchner, Contact

Sewing for Missions 1st & 3rd Wednesdays, 6:30-8:30 p.m., RH

WORSHIP IN SEPTEMBER Nov 3 COMMUNION “The Battle Begins” Pastor Steve preaching 8:30 Organ Offertory 9:45 Praise Team 11:00 Chancel Choir 9:45 & 11:00 Sunday School Nov 10 “STAND ALONE” Sunday Veteran Buck Stultz preaching 8:30 Celebration Bells 9:45 Praise Team 11:00 Carole & Cherub Choirs 9:45 & 11:00 Sunday School Nov 17 “NEW COMMANDMENTS” Pastor Cara preaching 8:30 Chancel Choir 9:45 Praise Team 11:00 Joy Unlimited 9:45 & 11:00 Sunday School Nov 24 “THE WONDERING” Pastor Cara preaching 8:30 Joy Unlimited 9:45 Praise Team 11:00 Chancel Choir 9:45& 11:00 Sunday School

WAIT!!! AM I HEADED FOR “FILE 13”?? If you no longer wish to receive the Faith Notes newsletter, please call the church at 330-499-6040 to be removed from the mailing list. Did you know that you can receive a digital copy? Email [email protected] if you’d like to be added to the email list! Help us to be good stewards!

Documents

Faith Notes November 2013