“Snow is God’s reminder of what Grace is supposed to look like. It doesn’t pick

and choose where it falls, it covers everything.” --Todd Gothberg

Cub Run creek at Longbow Road bridge Coffman hill after the storm

MOUNTAIN ECHOES FEB/MAR 2016

Keezletown United Methodist Church

Rev. T. Joel Robinette, Pastor 1456 Indian Trail Road Church phone: 269-8531 Keezletown VA 22832 Parsonage phone: 269-8405 Pastor’s email: joel robinette @hotmail.com Pastor’s Cell: 540-908-9482 Pastor’s office hours: Monday & Wednesday 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Keezletown UMC website: www.keezletownumc.com <+< <+< <+<

1 Corinthians 15:10 But by the grace of God I am what I am, and his grace toward me has not been in vain. On the contrary, I worked harder than any of them—though it was not I, but the grace of God that is with me.

DAYLIGHT SAVINGS TIME BEGINS MAR 13th --SPRING FORWARD SATURDAY NIGHT

THERE IS ALSO A MONTHLY CALENDAR ON THE NARTHEX DOOR AT THE GUESTBOOK

FEBRUARY CALENDAR

Feb 21 UM Men meet 8:00 a.m.

Sunday School 9:45 a.m.

Worship 11:00 a.m.; Message: EUB History by Rev George Snapp, portrayed by Rev

Gary Zigler

Blood Pressure checks after worship

Feb 22 EMP 6:30 a.m.

Christian Believer Study 7:00 p.m.

Feb 23 Seven Prophets Bible study 10:00 a.m.

Feb 24 Lent Service 6:30 p.m.; speaker Rev Don Hawks

Feb 27 Serve Salvation Army

Ruritans serving Fried Chicken Dinner, 4:00 p.m. til

Feb 28 Sunday School 9:45 a.m.

Worship 11:00 a.m.; Message: “Serve”

Feb 29 EMP 6:30 a.m.

Christian Believer Study 7:00 p.m.

MARCH CALENDAR

Mar 1 Seven Prophets Bible study 10:00 a.m.

Mar 2 Lent Service 6:30 p.m.; speaker Rev Dawn-Marie Singleton

Mar 3 UMW Call to Prayer/Self Denial meal at 6:30 p.m.; meeting to follow

Mar 5 Choir Practice 9:30 a.m.

Mar 6 Sunday School 9:45 a.m.

Worship 11:00 a.m. with Communion; Message: “Table”

Mar 7 EMP 6:30 a.m.

Christian Believer Study 7:00 p.m.

UMW serve Ruritans

Mar 8 5 Talent Academy 9:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m. Bridgewater UMC

No Bible study

Mar 9 Lent Service 6:30 p.m.; speaker Rev Wilton Thomas

Administrative Council meeting 7:30 p.m., after Lent service

Mar 11 Newsletter items due

Mar 12 UMM Pancake dinner from 5:00 p.m. til for Stop Hunger and WRE

DAYLIGHT SAVINGS TIME BEGINS SUNDAY 13TH—SPRING FORWARD

Mar 13 Sunday School 9:45 a.m.

Worship 11:00 a.m.; Message: “Prayer”

3rd Stop Hunger Now offering

Keezletown Light Commission meets at 7:00 p.m. in social hall

Mar 14 EMP 6:30 a.m.

Christian Believer Study 7:00 p.m.

Mar 15 Seven Prophets Bible study 10:00 a.m.

Mar 16 Lent Service 6:30 p.m.; speaker Missionary, Bob May

Mar 17 St Patrick’s Day

Mar 17-18 Relay Team making Candy eggs starting at 6:00 p.m.

Mar 17-20 Wilbur Pence Middle School presents “Into the Woods” at 7:00 p.m. nightly, and a

2:00 p.m. matinee on Sunday

Mar 18-19 Confirmation and Baptism Prep class retreat at Camp Overlook

Mar 19 Choir practice 9:30 a.m.

UMW District Spiritual Life Retreat, Asbury UMC, 9:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m.

Mar 20 UM Men meeting 8:00 a.m.

Sunday School 9:45 a.m.

Worship 11:00 a.m.; Message: “Forgive”

Blood Pressure Checks after Worship

Stop Hunger Now packaging after worship

Mar 21 EMP 6:30 a.m.

Christian Believer Study 7:00 p.m.

Mar 22 Seven Prophets Bible study 10:00 a.m.

Mar 24 Maunday Thursday meal and foot washing service at 7:00 p.m.

Mar 25 Good Friday Experience at 7:00 p.m.

Mar 26 Serve Salvation Army

Mar 27 EASTER SUNDAY

Sunrise Service at 7:00 a.m. w/freewill breakfast to follow by Relay team

Sunday School 9:45 a.m.

Worship 11:00 a.m.; Message: “Resurrection”

Mar 28 EMP 6:30 a.m.

Christian Believer Study 7:00 p.m.

Mar 28-Apr 3 Pastor Joel on Vacation

Mar 29 No Bible study

UPCOMING EVENTS APRIL AND MAY: Apr 6 225 Committee meeting 7:00 p.m. Apr 7 UMW meeting 7:30 p.m. Apr 16 UMM Pork Tenderloin/Catfish Dinner for Relay for Life Apr 17 United Methodist Women Sunday May 1 Homecoming Service with Bishop Young Jin Cho May 6-7 Relay for Life at Rockingham County Fairgrounds May 12 UMW meeting 7:30 p.m. May 15 UMM Potato Bar after worship for missions May 29 Fifth Sunday change collection for Conference Kits =============================================================================

Think about it…aren’t you really glad that God is writing the story of your life and not you?

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ FEBRUARY BIRTHDAYS Feb 2 Clint Martin Feb 18 Nancy Armentrout Feb 2 Dorothy Sites Feb 18 Kahlyn Smith Feb 3 Caleb Combs Feb 20 Courtney Sacra Feb 3 John Phalen Feb 22 Rick Layman

Feb 4 Alexander Mansfield Feb 22 Reese Pellegrin Feb 7 Steve Suter Feb 22 Noland Suter

Feb 7 Lynn Siler Feb 23 Joe Johnson Jr Feb 9 Cole Liskey Feb 23 Loretta Eklund Feb 10 Kevin Mason Feb 23 Steve Zylich Feb 13 Flossie Walters Feb 24 Stephanie Liskey Feb 14 Noah Robinette Feb 25 David Nankivell Feb 17 Ken Thomas Feb 28 Tyler Sacra Feb 18 Grace Brown FEBRUARY ANNIVERSARIES Feb 12, 1993 Joseph & Melissa Johnson 23 years Feb 16, 1972 Allen & Sharon Martin 44 years MARCH BIRTHDAYS Mar 1 Andrea Crisman Mar 9 Wyatt Martin Mar 1 Austyn Crisman Mar 11 Joseph Botkin Sr Mar 1 Jackie Werner Mar 11 Jennifer Williams Mar 1 Coty Milligan Mar 13 Melissa Kelley Mar 2 Donnie Underwood Mar 13 Wesley Crisman Mar 4 Eli Bowman Mar 15 Esther McDaniel Mar 5 Maynard Sites Mar 18 Ann Ford Mar 6 Barbara Heatwole Mar 20 Dave Werner Mar 7 Whitney Johnson Mar 21 Joshua Seaman Mar 7 Brian Shafer Mar 22 Becky Ryman Mar 8 Leslie Pellegrin Mar 24 Aliene Whitmore Mar 9 Macie Heishman Mar 28 Kate Ramsey MARCH ANNIVERSARIES Mar 1, 2008 Chad & Michelle Higgs 8 years Mar 10, 2011 BJ & KellySmith 5 years Mar 16, 1968 Frank & Carolyn Baker 48 years Mar 27, 1965 Joseph & Elinor Botkin Sr 51 years Mar 28, 2009 Cory & Lynette Guilliams 7 years

CELEBRATING 40 YEARS OR MORE: CONGRATULATIONS to church family

couples that have been married 40 years or more in February and March:

Allen and Sharon Martin on Feb 16th for 44 years

Frank & Carolyn Baker on Mar 16th for 48 years

Joseph & Elinor Botkin Sr on Mar 27th for 51 years

Best wishes from your KUMC family. May your love continue for years to come

F A I T H is Forwarding All Issues To Heaven. Amen.

============================================================================

SERVICE TO OTHERS HAPPY VALENTINE’S DAY

"Love doesn't make the world go round. Love is what makes the ride worthwhile." -- Franklin Jones

"All you need is love. But a little chocolate now and then doesn't hurt." -- Charles M. Schulz

"True love comes quietly, without banners or flashing lights. If you hear bells, get your ears

checked." -- Erich Segal

"Where there is love there is life." – Gandhi

Valentine’s Day Lunch The church family enjoyed a potluck lunch after worship on Valentine’s day, Sunday, Feb 14th. Good food, good fellowship, and lots of love was shared by all. Gathering Non-Perishable Food items We are continuing to collect non-perishable food items for the Massanutten Food Pantry in the box in the narthex, which helps to feed approximately 150 people per month according to MFP, and are very much appreciated. Randy Clatterbuck delivers the collections when the container is full. Please help feed the hungry in our neighborhood. Thanks.

SALVATION ARMY MEAL The Adult Sunday school class is spear-heading serving the Salvation Army patrons a meal on the 4th Saturday of each month. Please see Carol Dillard or Joe Liskey if you wish to help. Backpack Program Our Backpack program for Cub Run Elementary School is going strong, serving 58 children. We are grateful to sponsors, to the shoppers, and to the packers. Your willingness to help these children shows how much the love of God lives in this church family. If you have any questions, or wish to become a sponsor, please call Jenny at 269-6409. KUMC Facebook Page

Check out, and “like” the Keezletown United Methodist Church Facebook page. Take pictures and tag the church in the posts; any items/events you think should be included, please let me know. Please remember this is a "Public" page so the world can see everything posted. If you see an event, feel free to invite friends, or share. Thanks. ~ Beth Morris Good Folks to Bless There is a list of some good folks in Jackie’s room, some church members, some friends of the church, connected to our church that it would be good to bless with a visit, card, telephone call, or to help out. Please indicate if you have reached out to them so others can know who else might need a blessing.

WHITE LIE CAKE

Ever told a white lie? Church bakers will like this. Alice was to bake a cake for the Church Ladies'

Group, but forgot until the last minute. Remembering the morning of the bake sale, she rummaged

through cabinets, found an angel food cake mix and quickly made it while drying her hair, dressing,

and helping her son pack for Scout camp. Taking the cake from the oven, the center had dropped

flat and the cake was horribly disfigured. She thought, "Oh dear, there’s no time to bake another

cake." It was important because she did so want to fit in at her new church. So, being inventive, she

looked around the house for something to build up the center of the cake, and found it in the

bathroom - a roll of toilet paper. She plunked it in and covered it with icing. The finished product

look beautiful; it looked perfect. Before leaving the house to drop the cake by the church and head

for work, she woke her daughter, Amanda, gave her money and specific instructions to be at the

bake sale the moment it opened to buy the cake and bring it home. When Amanda arrived at the

sale, she found the cake had already been sold. She grabbed her cell phone and called her Mom, who

was horrified. Everyone would know! What would they think? She would be talked about and

ridiculed! All night, Alice lay awake thinking about people pointing fingers at her and talking behind

her back. The next day, Alice tried not to think about the cake and attended the fancy luncheon at

the home of a fellow church member. She really didn’t want to attend because the hostess was a

snob who more than once had looked down her nose at her because she was a single parent and not

from the founding families of the south. But, having already RSVP'd, she couldn't think of a

believable excuse to stay home. The meal was elegant, the company was definitely upper crust old

south, and, to her horror, the cake in question was presented for dessert! She felt the blood drain

from her body when she saw the cake and started out of her chair to tell the hostess all about it.

But before she could get to her feet, the Mayor's wife said, "what a beautiful cake!" Alice still

stunned, sat back in her chair when she heard the hostess (who was a prominent church member)

say, "Thank you, I baked it myself." Alice smiled and thought to herself, "God is good."

==========================================================================================

MISSIONS UMW Soup and Bake Sale WE SOLD OUT!!! The UMW held their annual Soup & Bake Sale on a very cold Feb 13th, and all 20 gallons of the vegetable soup was sold, as well as almost all of the baked goods. Thank you to all who helped in making this a successful project for Relay sponsorship and UMW missions.

FIFTH SUNDAY CHANGE COLLECTIONS FOR 2016 Thanks for your generosity…the Conference Kit change collection on Jan31st was $121.50. The next collections are May 29th for Conference Kits; July 31st for HDMCCC; Oct 30th to be decided. Stop Hunger Now We will be hosting a meal packaging day on March 20th, after worship for our 6th year! Each year we have packaged approximately 15,000 – 20,000 meals. Meals are $.29 each and it would be great to get to 20,000 meals or more again. We have collected $377.41 so far, with our Jan 10th offering. Two more offerings Feb 14th, and Mar 13th will help us raise the needed money for meals. You can help by giving or by packaging meals, which go toward schools where hungry children get a meal and education, or to relief agencies when food is needed right away. McGaheysville UMC has committed to join us again. RELAY TEAM The Relay Team met Sunday, Feb 14th to discuss the Candy egg making project on Mar 17-18; the Easter Sunrise breakfast; and a Service for Hope Sunday. All were asked to please register.

CONFERENCE KITS

We are still collecting supplies for all conference kits. Items may be brought in throughout the year and

will be stored for the next year’s conference kits. See Sherry Summers or Chris Cole if you have items.

Think about it: wouldn’t it be far better to build a longer table with more chairs, than a

taller fence? “Love thy neighbor.”

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- PRAYER TIME MONDAY MORNING PRAYER Every Monday morning at 6:30 a.m., here at the church, church family meet to pray for the church, each other, the sick, the world, and any needs requested. Come as you are led or pray at home during this time with the Early Morning Prayer group or “EMP”. For info, please see BJ Smith or contact him at 908-0061 or smithb818@comcast.net. YOU CAN DO IT FOR A WEEK! What? Pray for someone. Please consider placing your name, or the name of someone you

know that needs prayer in the Prayer baskets passed on Sunday mornings. Then, just pick a name

out of the basket as you leave, and pray for that person all week. You will make a difference in

your prayer partner’s life for that week. If you miss picking up a name, please give me a call and

I will see that you get one. Diana

Keezletown Courageous Warriors for Christ

A small group meets 2 times per month for breakfast at Mr. J’s on Market Street. They are the Keezletown Courageous Warriors for Christ or KCW4X, for short. See Pastor Joel if you are interested in joining this group. ==================================================================================== “Waiting to come to the Lord when you get your life cleaned up is like waiting to go to the ER when

you stop bleeding. He doesn’t love some future version of you; He loves us in our mess.” (coe22)

================================================================== WORSHIP TIME & 225 CELEBRATION ACTIVITIES Missionary Speaks

Jan 17th we were honored to have Steele Dunn, a missionary from the Ukraine, and friend of the church family, speak to us about his involvement with the young people in his town, who deal with drugs and the “no one cares” feelings, and with the gypsy people that are outcasts of the town. He was accompanied by his wife, Alice, and their newborn son, Cedar. A donation from the Christmas Eve service and an honorarium were given to him to help in furthering their work. He was invited to include the church on his e-mailing of news about how Jesus is working thru their ministry.

Methodist History Sunday for 225 Celebration In celebrating our 225th anniversary, Keezletown UMC had a Methodist History Sunday on Jan 31st. Our circuit-riding guest preacher was Rev Noah Fidler (portrayed by Rev Gary Ziegler), whose elder brother, Rev Daniel Fidler, served Keezletown Methodist Episcopal Church in 1792 as one of our first pastors. Rev Fidler gave an entertaining oratory on the difficult life that he led, from being called to the ministry, thru circuit riding, preaching, and saving souls, thru Maryland, Pennsylvania, West Virginia, and Rockingham County.

Evangelical United Brethren History Sunday for 225 Celebration In celebrating our 225th anniversary, Keezletown UMC will be having an Evangelical United Brethren History Sunday on Feb 21st. Our guest preacher will be Rev George Snapp, portrayed by Rev Gary Ziegler. Rev Snapp was one of our Keezletown United Brethren in Christ pastors in the 1800’s. Yesterday, Today, and Forever Devotional

The 225th Anniversary Year devotional is now available in the narthex; and for your

convenience, is available on the KUMC website. There are devotions for 169 days and writings

from 61 KUMC members, friends, and historical references. Take some time to read scripture, a

devotion, and pray every day. Thank you to all who contributed. May these memories and

devotions from our growth together, bring you closer to Christ.

A Worship Thought: “Many days, I find myself looking beyond my now to my next, longing

in discontent. I seek God’s blessings instead of seeking God. I seek His hand instead of His

heart. This frazzles my peace and messes with my joy. It tangles my heart in knots until I

begin to dance through my days to the tune of, “I can’t get no satisfaction!” Why do we

desire God’s presents in our lives more than His presence? Isn’t that what we do when we

stomp our feet before His throne and whine about all of the things that need fixing

instead of praising Him for the strength He graciously gives us to get through?”

--Gwen Smith of Girlfriends in God Way of the Cross Sermons for Lent

The Lent sermon series will take a look at the life of Jesus in view of the cross and Jesus’s

invitation for us to take up and carry our cross. Jim Dillard will be distributing crosses during

this time. There will be an opportunity on March 20th to choose the ways of Jesus for yourself. “Encounter” A new worship time for children grades 1-5 follows the children’s time on Sunday mornings (except the 1st Sunday of each month). Children encounter God thru worship songs, prayer, the Bible, and other activities. Jenn Robinette is coordinating this new ministry.

5 Talent Academy—POWRful Worship

Please attend the 5 Talent Academy on Tuesday, Mar 8th from 9:00 a.m.- 3:00 p.m. at

Bridgewater UMC for POWRful Worship: Transforming Worship Planning and Leadership. We

will worship together as Rev Barbara Day Miller, Assoc Dean for Worship and Music at Candler

School of Theology, will guide us through reflection, using the POWR model, a conversational

model of worship planning and leadership. To attend, please talk to Pastor Joel. Registration is

$25, which includes lunch, and scholarships are available.

African Methodist Episcopal Church Founder Honored Black History month started strong when a commemorative stamp was unveiled and dedicated to the life and witness of Richard Allen (1760-1831), founder and first bishop of the African Methodist Episcopal Church (AME), at Mother Bethel AME Church, where he transformed a blacksmith shop into the first church of an independent black religious denomination in the US. The AME Church today has 2.5 million members in 40 countries, spanning five continents. 2016 is the bicentennial of the Church. Allen, a former slave, came to Christianity under the preaching of a Methodist circuit rider near Dover, Delaware. After purchasing his freedom, Allen became a traveling minister throughout the mid-Atlantic region. “This Wesleyan progeny took the Methodist idea of experiencing “amazing grace” and God’s life-changing, difference-making love in Jesus Christ, and facing indignity, intimidation and injustice head on, and turned it into empowerment and social change.”

Worship CDs for Homebound

CDs of the weekly worship service for homebound folks who do not have internet access, are available. If

you would like to receive, or can assist in delivering CD’s, please contact Pastor Joel. If you would like to

deliver a CD to a homebound person, you could take one and a worship bulletin to them. Please indicate

on the “Good Folks to Visit” chart (in Jackie’s room) to whom you delivered a CD.

Word on the Website

If you miss a Sunday, want to review, or wish you could share a recent sermon with a friend, the last four Sunday scripture and sermons are available online on the church website at www.keezletownumc.com for your listening enjoyment.

Sometimes no matter how hard we try, we just can’t find the “zippity” in our “do-

dah” day. My, oh my. (Are you humming it yet?)

EASTER

Lent Supper & Services Lent Supper and Services will be held every Wednesday through Mar 16th. Supper is at 6:30 p.m., a speaker at 7:00 p.m., and dismissal around 7:30 p.m. Speakers will be former pastors and folks connected to our church, including Rev Jim Harris on Feb 17th, Rev Don Hawks on Feb 24th, Rev Dawn-Marie Singleton on Mar 2nd, Rev Wilton Thomas on Mar 9th, and Missionary Bob May on May 16th. If you, your family, or small group at church would like to provide one of the suppers, please let Pastor Joel know. Lent Service Feb 10th Pastor Joel began the Lent Services on Ash Wednesday, Feb 10th, with an encouraging message about finding time to worship God every day as your “giving up for Lent”. All were then invited to be marked with a cross of ashes. Thank you to the UM Men who served a delicious spaghetti meal. Lent Offerings for Brazil Initiative of Hope Lent Services offerings will be for the Brazil Initiative of Hope. Our Virginia Conference has partnered with the Methodist Church of Brazil to provide medical care through the John Wesley Medical Boat along the Amazon River where remote villages have no access to medical care, and to support Shade & Fresh Water which provides safe places and resources for street children in urban areas. With the Zika Virus affecting the people of Brazil, this would be a good time to support these ministeries. Easter Candy Eggs The Relay Team will again be making candy Easter eggs on Mar 17th-18th. Order forms will be available soon. Maunday Thursday Love Feast March 24th will be a love feast with foot washing. Maunday Thursday is a time to remember when Jesus washed the disciples’ feet prior to his passion and invited us to love and serve one another. The love feast is a simple meal, usually just bread and water, where the love of God is shared in prayer, testimonies, scripture, and fellowship. The service will be at 7:00 p.m. and everyone is welcome.

Good Friday Experience Good Friday, March 25th, is the night we remember Jesus’ passion as he gave his life for everyone. Come sing hymns, hear the story, cast lots for clothing, taste the sour wine, behold the thorny crown, hold a hammer and nails, and consider the love that Jesus has given you and the world. The experience will begin at 7:00 p.m.

Easter Sunrise Breakfast The Relay team will sponsor the Easter Sunrise service breakfast on March 27th, following the Sunrise service. All are invited to attend.

==========================================================

STUDY OF THE WORD Confirmation and Baptism Prep

Two young people will be joining Pastor Joel as he leads an 8 session class on living your faith

in Jesus with the church, preparing them for confirmation and baptism, with a retreat at Camp

Overlook, Mar 18th-19th. Please contact Pastor Joel if interested.

“The Fruits of the Spirit”-during Sunday school

The Adult class, led by Mac Coffman, meeting in the social hall, continues to study “The Fruits of

the Spirit”. All are welcome to study with us.

“Disciple 4: Under the Tree of Life” Study-Monday nights

This study meets on Monday evenings at 7:00 p.m. thru May 2016. This is a study of Christian beliefs and how they came to be from scripture and history, including daily readings from the Bible, Christian writings and historical documents, videos, and a weekly group discussion. “Micah-Malachi”—A Seven Prophet Study- Tuesday mornings On Tuesday morning, Feb 2nd, at 10:00 a.m., began an eight week study of Micah, Nahum, Habakkuk, Zephaniah, Haggai, Zechariah, and Malachi, skipping Mar 8th, and Mar 29th and finishing on Apr 12th. The study is authored by Linda Hinton. You are welcome to attend.

I had 12 jugs of homemade grape wine in my cellar and was told by my wife to empty the contents

down the sink, or else!! So I said I would. I pulled the cork from the first jug and poured the

contents down the sink, with the exception of one glass, which I drank. I pulled the cork from the

second jug and poured, with the exception of one glass, which I drank. I then pulled the cork from

the third jug and poured the wine down the sink, with the exception of one glass, which I drank. I

pulled the cork from the fourth sink and poured the jug down the glass, which I drank. I pulled the

cork from the next jug and drank all but one sink of it, throwing the rest down the glass. I pulled

the sink from the next glass and poured the cork from the jug. Then I corked the sink with the

glass, jugged the drink and drank the pour. When I had everything emptied, I steadied the House

with one hand, counted the jugs, corks and glasses and sinks with the other, which were 29, and as

the house came by, I counted them again and finally had all houses in one jug, which I drank. I am

not under the alcofluence of incohol as some thinkle peep I am, nor are I half so think as they drunk

I am, but I fool so feelish I don’t know who is me, and the frunder I stand here the longer I get.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DISTRICT Harrisonburg District Mission Center Clothes Closet

The HDMCCC at Cedar Grove is accepting donations for a medical equipment loaner closet,

including wheelchairs, walkers, canes, bedside commodes, over bed tables, and shower chairs or

benches. Please contact Delores Reid at dreid515@!aol.com for donating. The center is open

every 2nd and 3rd Wednesday, 10:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. It provides clothing for less fortunate

families in our community, is in need of volunteers, and donations of children’s clothes. Contact

Artie Frederick by e-mail: dfaf5x7@comcast.net if you can help. A “Random Act of Kindness”

Dear Friends, We have had a blizzard and everyone is getting out again, but what have we learned from this 25”+ snow storm? I have seen neighbors helping neighbors, and friends checking on friends. I have seen snow plow operators working way past their normal waking hours. I have seen people with shovels helping others get their cars out of the snow. The snow has been both a blessing and a curse, but in many cases it has been a way to show kindness. After anonymously doing a good deed, often left behind is a small card, which states: “You’ve just received a random act of grace. Pass it on.” It’s a way to

encourage people to do a good deed intentionally in the name of God, to share their faith along with the good deed. I encourage all churches to try this. Let’s show the world a “Random Act of Kindness.” If you would like some of these cards, please let the district office know. We would love to pass along some of these stories in the district newsletter in months to come. You may submit them by e-mail to harrisonburgds@vaumc.org. We look forward to hearing from you! Tommy Herndon LEARN ABOUT TRUSTEES AND FINANCE COMMITTEES You are invited to join District Superintendent Tommy Herndon and District Program Coordinator Glen Langston in learning about the work of the Board of Trustees led by Tommy, and the Finance Committee led by Glen. A 90 minute workshop will be offered on these two subjects on: Sunday, Mar 6th, 3:00 - 4:30 p.m. at Manor Memorial UMC in New Market or Thursday, Mar 10th, 7:00 - 8:30 p.m. at Bethany UMC, Weyers Cave. Anyone can attend either of these workshops, but we are targeting and expecting chairs and members of these two committees.

IRISH BLESSINGS FOR ST PATRICK’S DAY MARCH 17TH

May your blessings outnumber the shamrocks that grow, and may trouble avoid you

wherever you go. May the Irish hills caress you. May her lakes and rivers bless you.

May the luck of the Irish enfold you. May the blessings of Saint Patrick behold you.

May your thoughts be as glad as the shamrocks. May your heart be as light as a song.

May each day bring you bright, happy hours, hat stay with you all the year long. =====================================================================================

CHURCH ITEMS

Cookbooks for Sale

The United Methodist Women have new KUMC cookbooks full

of “scrumptious” new and old recipes of the church family for

sale for $15.00 per book. Please contact Kelly Smith at 421-

8990 or Diana Davis at 269-8511 to order, or pick up one (or

two) in the church social hall before or after church any

Sunday. They make great gifts!

225 Committee The 225 Committee will meet April 6th @ 7:00 p.m.to discuss further details for our May 1st homecoming event. Tanya Dawn Eppard, Chair FLOWERS ARE NEEDED Flowers are a great way to say that you care. Why not show this by providing flowers for the altar one Sunday in the upcoming months. It can be for a special occasion or just because…. a flower calendar is posted on the door in the narthex so please take time to sign up on any dates that are available. Thanks so much for your help. Any questions, please see Ann Ford. Administrative Council-Jan and Feb meetings Administrative Council met Jan 13th at 7:30 p.m. with 13 members present. Reports were given: Jesus’ kids are having a Valentine’s Parents Night-Out on Feb 6th. CAOS youth will be meeting twice monthly on Saturday evenings from 6-8 p.m.; have discussed many planned events, and are awaiting an Ok from the trustees on their request to paint the youth room. Two committees still need leadership: Adult/Family and Education. A Valentine’s luncheon will be held Feb 14th.. UMW is having a soup and bake sale on Feb 13th. UMM have elected officers and are planning for the year. Memorials has placed the new cross on the altar table. Trustees reported plans to complete the parsonage makeover in 2016.

Missions requested that we renew our covenant with Dieudonne, which was approved. Pastor Parish and Joel have agreed and requested of the DS, that Joel remain at KUMC for another year. 225 Committee requested that KUMC pay Gary Zigler a $75.00 honorarium for each of his portrayals, which was approved. Wes will offer the congregation Valentine floral arrangements, with the profits split between Stop Hunger Now and parsonage repair costs. Spring meal is questionable. There will be no lawn party this year. Joel reminded us of upcoming events listed in the bulletins and on the calendar, and talked about his family’s trip. Next meeting is Feb 10th at 7:30 p.m., following the Lenten service. Administrative Council met on Feb 10th following the Lenten service, with 14 members present. Business included: there will be no spring meal; the UMM will have a pancake supper on Mar 12th; Missionary Bob May will be the last Lent speaker; Lent offerings will go to Brazil Initiative of Hope; the church will pay half of camp cost for two confirmands, and full cost of a female chaperone; Joel will be on vacation Mar 28-April 3. Next meeting date is Mar 9th, after the Lent service.

Trustees

Trustees met Feb 17th after the Lenten service. Report will follow in next newsletter.

Parsonage Roof Update

The new roof was a necessary and unexpected replacement, with a projected total of $14,000. However,

unforeseen problems appeared, namely the two unused chimneys, which were removed to below roof

level, and the remaining chimney, that had been for the furnace, needed repairing to basement level, so it

was removed. We purchased a gas furnace, needing no chimney, and vented out the basement. The

expense breakdown was: $12,930 for a red metal roof (guaranteed 35 years); $2,100 for removing

chimneys; $1,202 for attic insulation; $6,000 for new gas furnace; $1,136 for new gas tanks; $803 for

propane; totaling $23,989.00. We have raised $8,743.47 with donations, Election Day meal, and Lay

Servants meal. We continue to ask for and appreciate all donations toward this project.

Parsonage Work Yet to be Done Parsonage renovations completed in 2015 included new walls in two bedrooms, new flooring, a

new roof, new insulation in the attic, and a new heating system. Yet to be completed in 2016 are

the third bedroom, wrapping of the asbestos pipes in the basement, and insulating the basement.

Special donations towards these improvements and repairs would be welcomed and appreciated.

Bulletin Art

Create a cover for the worship bulletin by signing up at the pastor’s office, and submit the

completed work one week prior to the Sunday it will appear in the bulletin.

KUMC Directory New members, please see Jan Shafer or call 269-2032, if you wish to receive a church directory. Keezletown UMC Christmas CD’s and Ornaments Christmas CD’s and Church building ornaments are still available. ============================================================================

DALE’S CORNER by Dale Dodrill As I read this poem, I remembered watching Ben Pellegrin caring for his young son, at church, on Sunday, Jan 31st. It is by War Cry. He does not even watch the way. His father's hand, he knows Will guide his tiny feet along The pathway as he goes. A childlike faith! A perfect trust! God grant to us today, A faith that grasps Thy Father Hand And trusts Thee all the way. ===============================================================

GRACE is when somebody hurts you and you try to understand their situation

instead of trying to hurt them back.

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HEALTH Blood Pressure/Checks and Health Questions

Parish Nurse, Carol Sacra, reminds everyone that on the 3rd Sunday of every month, she administers Blood Pressure Checks in the Sunday school room behind the organ after worship. If you have any concerns, blood pressure, or otherwise, with your health, please feel free to use this time (or anytime the need arises) to speak with her. SENTARA RMH PRESENTS: Matters of the Heart, a free seminar about heart health and you, will be held Mar 21st at 6:30 p.m. at the JMU Festival Conference Center, 1301 Carrier Drive, with speakers, Dr Jerome McDonald and Dr Thomas d’Amato. There will be free blood pressure screenings, educational displays and exhibits, refreshments, and door prizes. Call 1-800-SENTARA to register.

I signed up for an exercise class and was told to wear loose fitting clothing. If I HAD any

loose fitting clothing, I wouldn't need the class!

Wouldn't you know it! Brain cells come and brain cells go, but FAT cells live forever.

“IN YOUR CORNER” by Carol Sacra, RN, PN

“ illion Hearts” is a national initiative to prevent one million heart attacks over the next five years. Launched in 2011 by the Department for Health & Human Services (HHS), the focus is to improve health across communities, to help Americans live longer, and more productively. Many federal agencies have partnered with HHS to make a long-standing impact against cardiovascular disease (CVD). Heart disease and stroke are the 1st and 4th leading causes of death and disability in the U.S. However, there are several steps each person can take to help control this significant health risk. The goals of “Million Hearts” is to #1, prevent CVD by understanding the risks; #2, get up and be active by exercising for at least 30 minutes several days each week; #3, maintain Blood Pressure control; and #4, eat heart healthy diets (increase fruits and veggies; decrease sodium-salt intake; decrease saturated and trans fats by reading the labels). Let’s take control of our own heart’s health by following doctor recommendations for meds and treatment. Together, we, our congregation at KUMC, can be a successful partner of a “Million Hearts”. I am, “In Your Corner”, for health and wellness. Carol, PN

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Ain’t it great—all snowmen come unassembled, with no instructions, so we can use

our imagination. We can make a Snoopy, or a cat, or a dinosaur, or a snowman!

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CHILDREN, YOUTH, MEN, WOMEN AND FAMILY JESUS’ KIDS Jesus’s Kids met on Saturday, Feb 6th at 4:30 p.m. for a fun-filled time of indoor miniature golf, then back to church for supper, songs, and games. Parents were given a Valentine’s night out. The children plan to meet once a month, with planned activities during the year. For info, contact Brandon Bowman (820-4472) or Jeanine Underwood (246-1182).

CAOS YOUTH

Nine CAOS youth met in Bridgewater on Sat Feb 6th with their advisors, BJ and Kelly Smith, and

Makenna Eppard, for an evening of ice skating, falls, bruises, lots of laughter, and scrumptious

snacks at the Dodrill’s afterwards. They have decided to meet twice a month, on Saturday

evenings from 6:00 p.m.-7:30 p.m. Next meeting is Feb 20th.

Just a thought: If you feel blue when you are sad, what color does a smurf feel

when they are sad? UNITED METHODIST WOMEN

The UMW met Feb 4th at 7:00 p.m. with 12 members and Joel present. Judy led the program on “Hungering and Thirsting for Righteousness”. Announced was the change collection for Jan 31st of $121.50 for Conference kits. Donation sign-up sheets for the Soup/Bake sale on Feb 13th and the Lenten Service meal on Feb 24th were passed. It was agreed that the 225 Speakers would each receive a UMW cookbook and an ornament for participating. There will be a UMW choir on UMW Sunday, Apr 17th. Upcoming events include the Evening Together on Feb 18th at Otterbein, and the District Spiritual Life Retreat on Mar 19th at Asbury. Next meeting is Mar 3rd at 6:30 p.m. for the Call to Prayer and Self Denial meal and meeting (note time change). UNITED METHODIST MEN The January meeting began with breakfast provided by Joe Liskey, followed by a planning session for the year. 17 men were present. We adopted by-laws and set up the calendar for the entire 2016 year. 2016 officers are Pres Jim Dillard, Vice Pres Neil Sacra, Recording Secretary Dale Dodrill, and Treasurer Maynard Michael. Upcoming events included serving the Feb 10th Lenten service; a Pancake dinner on Mar 12th for Stop Hunger Now and WRE; two Pork Tenderloin/Catfish dinners (one April 16th, one October 15th); serving two meals to the Salvation Army (one July 30th, one TBD); a Potato Bar on May 15th for missions; leading the worship service on June 19th; the golf tournament on Sept 11th; the Men’s Picnic on Sept 25th; and the annual Ladies Night Out on Dec 4th. Other activities discussed were mowing and mulching schedules; HDMCCC support; sponsoring a Back Pack; packing shoe boxes for OCC; selling Valentine arrangements for Wes to support parsonage repair expenses; and purchasing and planting four shrubs at Camp Overlook. The next meeting will be Feb 21st at 8:00 a.m. =============================================================

COMMUNITY Ruritans

The Keezletown Ruritans will be serving a Fried Chicken Dinner on Feb 27th from 4:00 p.m. til

UMM PANCAKE DINNER The UMM will hold a Pancake dinner on March 12th from 5:00p.m. til. Proceeds will benefit the Stop Hunger Now project and Weekday Religious Education. Come out and eat! Keezletown Light Commission The Keezletown Light Commission will hold their annual meeting on March 13th at 7:00 p.m. in the church social hall. Please mark your calendars to attend. WPMS School Musical Mar 17th-19th, Wilbur Pence Middle School presents “Into the Woods” at 7:00 p.m., and on Mar 20th, presents a matinee at 2:00 p.m. Our own Kendra Dodrill is one of the dancers in this presentation. Go Kendra. ============================================================ A Good Sign to see: “Come, Sit, and Rock on the Porch with Me…the Iced Tea is Cold and the

Friendship is Free.” We all need God’s rest and refreshment now and then. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

THE CHURCH FAMILY IS PROUD OF: TV Celebrity

Our very own, Mary Harris, was one of the 100+ aged celebrities at

the Bridgewater Retirement Home to be interviewed by WVPT for an

upcoming presentation. Airing date will be announced later.

Congratulations, Mary.

David Suter, grandson of Noland and Marion Suter, who graduated magna cum laude with a degree in nursing from James Madison University in Dec 2015. Congrats! From Jeanine Underwood: I have to do one little mom brag. Alli came home with her report card today. She's in 1st grade. At her recent pals testing, she tested at a 4th grade reading level. I'm super proud of my enthusiastic reader. Named to the fall Dean’s list at James Madison University are Whitney Johnson and Erin Werner, both majoring in Nursing and graduating in 2016.

THANK YOU NOTES: A message to say, “Thanks for just being you and for doing the wonderful things that you do!” Have a Happy New Year from Don Clatterbuck, who writes: Dear Church, thank you very much for the candy and the card, for your love, and for your help all year. I hope I can measure up to it. As you know, I am older than dirt: “The shoe lady” put that to my name, you might give her a talking to. Thank you! I hope we have a very nice year in front of us. I will try to do my part. Thank you! Brother Don

Dear friends at KUMC, Thank you for your ongoing support of those in need in our community. I thank the Lord Jesus Christ for the faith and love He has implanted in your hearts for Him and our neighbors. I value your partnership and friendship with the Salvation Army. You have again and again partnered with us to serve as God’s vehicle of grace. Thank you for all your love and for living out Christ’s love for others. May God bless and keep you. David J Sears, Salvation Army

The Church Family Remembers:

Don Bible, longtime church attendee, and friend ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I Worried by Mary Oliver

I worried a lot. Will the garden grow, will the rivers flow in the right direction, will the

earth turn as it was taught, and if not how shall I correct it? Was I right, was I wrong,

will I be forgiven, can I do better? Will I ever be able to sing, even the sparrows can do it

and I am, well, hopeless. Is my eyesight fading or am I just imagining it, am I going to get

rheumatism, lockjaw, dementia? Finally I saw that worrying had come to nothing, and gave

it up. And took my old body and went out into the morning, and sang. =====================================================================================

PASTOR’S CHAT Lent began on February 10th and is a period of 40 days (not including Sundays) of preparation

for Easter and with a focus on Jesus’ passion and our own need for repentance, salvation, and the

grace of God. Many Christians commit themselves to spiritual disciplines during Lent like

prayer, scripture reading, fasting, acts of service, regular worship, and more. 40 days is a long

time. You could get a lot done in 40 days. Noah waited 40 days before opening a window and

sending out a raven after the flood waters subsided. Moses spent 40 days with God on a

mountain on two separate occasions. Goliath chastised the Israelites for 40 days. Elijah traveled

40 days to Mt. Horeb strengthened by just a little food. Ezekiel laid on his right side for 40 days

prophesying to Judah. Jonah preached 40 days until destruction to the people of Nineveh during

which time they repented. Jesus was driven into the wilderness for 40 days by the Holy Spirit

where he faced temptation. Jesus appeared for 40 days after the resurrection to the disciples and

others teaching about the kingdom of God before his ascension. Many Christians have spent

these 40 days returning to Jesus Christ and life in the Church or deepening their relationship with

God. Some have learned to talk to God and listen in prayer. Some have learned how to read the

Bible every day. Some have learned how to care for others in acts of service. Some have found

through fasting how God can sustain them. What might you do with God during these 40 days?

What might God do in you? Pastor Joel

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ON A PERSONAL NOTE

I don’t like winter, but I do like seeing the moonlight on freshly fallen untouched snow. I

don’t like the cold, but my sinuses sure clean out quick when I’m outside. I don’t like to

shovel, but, most of the time, I feel better after the exercise. I don’t like having to stay

inside, but I sure do like the fresh clean air when I can get back out. I don’t like the ways

my knees hurt in winter, but I sure am glad I can get outta’ bed and walk on them. Winter

is cold, and icy, and hard; and clean, and fresh, and beautiful. God makes all things good in

His sight, including winter…and us. Even when we complain, He understands, and lets us

know that Easter and spring are just around the next corner.

Diana

Editor’s Note

Thank you to all who contribute items of interest to YOUR newsletter. There is an

envelope labeled “Newsletter Items” in the room between the sanctuary and the

hallway. Please feel free to e-mail me, hand them to me, or leave them in the envelope.

The March deadline for submissions is March 11th. My home number is 269-8511 or

e-mail me at AntDyna@comcast.net. God bless you all.

Diana

So you are “broken”…even “broken” crayons

color beautiful pictures in God’s hands.