The

Epworth Tower Epworth United Methodist Church Church Phone: 419-531-4236 Website: www.epworth.com Fax: 419-531-7487

March 6, 2013

Childcare and preschool classes will be available at 8:30, 9:45, and 11:00. We will have special Easter activities for elementary children at 9:45 and 11:00.

EASTER Sunday, March 31

Holy Week and EasterMaundy Thursday, March 28

7:30 p.m. - Holy CommunionFeaturing the Chancel Choir and special liturgical dance

Palm/Passion Sunday, March 24With festive palm processionDecisions at the Crossroads:

Do you shout Crucify or Hosanna?Pastor Thomas

Pastor Thomas Preaching Good Friday, March 297:30 p.m. - A Service of Tenebrae (Darkness)

7:00 a.m. Easter Sunrise ServiceAs the sun rises, greet the good news of the Resurrection with Scripture and sun outdoors on the Valleyview porticoled by Student Pastor Carol Williams-Young.Message: “Range of (e) Motion”

8:30 a.m. and 9:45 a.m.: Traditional WorshipWonderful Easter hymns and Handel’s “Hallelujah Chorus”Featuring the Chancel Choir and guest artists The ACADEMY BRASS

11:00 a.m. Contemporary WorshipFeaturing Hearts Afire and a Special Children’s MomentsPastor Thomas will be preaching at all three services:Surprise! What Will You Do Now?

Childcare available if requested.

Childcare available if requested.

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Personals Time to Lace up Those Skates!Friday, March 15

Come one, come all to Epworth’s annual skating party at Tam-O-Shanter, sponsored by the Recreation Committee.

This year’s festivities will be held on Friday, March 15, from 6:30 p.m.–9:00 p.m. with:

pizza and pop being served from 6:30–7:30

and skating from 7:30–9:00.

The cost is $5 per person with a maximum of $10 per family.

Come and bring your friends and family to this fun event!

With Heartfelt ThanksI want to express my sincere thanks and appreciation for all the prayers, visits, cards and thoughts during my hospital stay. I am now home for several weeks more of recuperation but happy to be home. I truly felt the healing touch through the many prayers offered on my behalf. I have prayed over each card I received and can’t tell you how much it brightened my day. It is such a blessing to be part of the loving Epworth family.

Sincerely, Linda Coon

Our Condolences to:Gerry and Gwen Ames on the recent passing of Gwen’s brother-in-law.

Sylvia Clark on the recent passing of her sister.

Service of Healing and Wholeness

Tuesday, April 9The April Service of Healing and Wholeness will be held on Tuesday, April 9, at 7:00 p.m. in the Webb Chapel. Beth Irwin will provide leadership for this special service with the theme "Grace in the Rear View Mirror"....the focus being sometimes we only realize God's grace in trials and the Healing Moments upon reflection. It's when we look back—maybe from a place of calm or quiet—that we become aware of turning points that led to healing. Cecil Baughman will provide special music and accompany the service. Pastor Thomas will lead in the healing prayers and preside for the Sacrament of Holy Communion.

You may come to the service to pray for others, to have the community pray for your special needs, or to pray for the hurt and brokenness in the community and the world.

Wonderful Wednesday LuncheonApril 3

Peter Machin along with the other 2012 travelers will present the program: A Holy Land Adventure for the April 3, Wonderful Wednesday Luncheon at 12:00 noon in the Family Life Center. There will be a brief slide show and sharing of personal stories about the 2012 trip to Jordan and Israel. Lunch will be served at noon and Chef Les will be preparing a delicious meal with a Middle Eastern flair for only $6. The program will follow lunch. (We are still collecting travel size personal hygiene items for St. Paul’s.)

For reservations call Nancy in the church office at 419-531-4236 or email nancy@epworth.com.

Mark your calendar—S4 is back!

April 20, Spring Super Saturday of Service.

April 21 Dinner and Celebration FOR ALL AGES. Watch for more to come.

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Wednesday Evening Soup Supper and Vespers for Lent 2013

You are invited to gather each week in Lent for a Wednesday evening Soup Supper followed by a Vesper Service in the Family Life Center. The Soup Suppers are served from 6:00 p.m.—6:45 p.m. The menu is soup, bread, fruit/cookies and beverage. A free will offering will be received.

Pastor Thomas and Pastor Schroeder are leading the Lenten Vesper Series, which begin at 6:45 p.m.(also in the Family Life Center) on March 13 and 20. The Vesper Series features a Reader’s Theater presentation each week from Max Lucado’s book No Wonder They Call Him the Savior.

The services includes simple songs, special music by various Epworth musicians, scripture readings, and the sacrament of the Lord’s Supper. Make the Lenten Vespers a part of your spiritual discipline for Lent 2013 in preparation for a glorious and spiritual celebration of the Lord’s resurrection on EASTER, March 31.

Families with children are welcome. We have childcare for babies through preschool.

Please sign up on the Opportunities Page if you plan to attend.

ATTENTION ALL SCRAPBOOKERSScrapbooking for Missions

Saturday, March 16Announcing UMW’s 9th annual all-day crop called “Scrapbooking for Missions.” On Saturday, March 16, we will be gathering in the Family Life Center for a full day of scrapbooking from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. for a fee of $30 per person. A continental breakfast, lunch and dinner will be served. Drinks and snacks will also be provided.

If you are a seasoned scrapbooker or if you’ve never scrapbooked before, this is your chance to get started or just catch up. There will be door prizes, giveaways, and we’ll even play scrapbook bingo for prizes.

This year we have a massage therapist on hand to help you release your muscle tension and get your creative juices flowing. Also joining us will be Jill Obliziak of Creative Memories, Amanda Wilt of Close to My Heart, Lisa Kernes from First Impressions and Sandy Mallet with her creative layouts. If you don’t want to scrapbook, but need the time to get your photos organized and in an album, now is your chance.

Reservations will need to be paid in advance and forms can be picked up in the church office. You may also pick up registrations in the cloister on Sunday morning. Call Lisa Keaffaber for more information. This will be open for anyone who wants to join us, so ask all of your scrapbooking buddies to come along. As always, 100% of the proceeds will go directly to local missions!

Susanna CircleTuesday, March 12

Susanna Circle will be meeting on Tuesday, March 12, at 3:00 p.m. We will be making Easter baskets for Friendly Center. We are inviting anyone wishing to help with this project. Please bring candy and/or small toys for the baskets.

Deborah CircleSaturday, March 9

Join us from 9:30-noon at the Hands-On Studio at Toledo Botanical Gardens. We will do a “clay” project. The cost is $18-25 dollars. RSVP is REQUIRED, so don’t wait. Contact Laura Switzer.

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Co-ed Golf League FormingThe Epworth golf league will start a new season of play beginning Thursday, May 2. The league will play each Thursday evening for 16 weeks at Spuyten Duyval Golf Club, with the first tee times beginning at 5:45. This year will bring fun events during the season and an end of year celebration. The cost is $16.50 per round with the total $264.00 due at sign-up.

Two-person teams compete using handicaps, and all skill levels are encouraged to participate. Sign up with a partner or make a new friend when you are partnered with someone. This year substitutes will be ask to contribute $5 when they play.

Contact Dick Lehto for more information. League fees (payable to Epworth) may be sent to League Chairman Ray Mullins. Space is limited so sign up soon!

Adult Singles MinistryThe Adult Singles Ministry is open to all Adult singles age 30+. You do not have to be an Epworth member to participate so bring your friends for Christian Fellowship.

Italian NightThe Epworth Adult Singles group will meet on Friday, March 15, at the home of Linda Coon, at 6:30 p.m. for a fun evening of Christian Fellowship, speaker TBA, and of course, FOOD. Veggie and regular lasagna, table service and beverage will be provided. Bring your favorite Italian salad, appetizer, side dish, or dessert to share.

Blessings DepartmentThanks to all for the great contributions to the Blessings Department at the January meeting. I am told, all that were donated were selected the next day during the client selection date on January 19. This is an on-going need. The next client selection dates are Saturday, March 16 and April 20.

The Singles Group will continue to collect Blessings Department items at our regular meetings, so next time you are at the Dollar Store and see some gadgets that would be useful, consider picking up some. Also, if you are a garage sale junkie, and see something at a good price that you would like to donate, snag it! I love Savers and can get a lot of bang for the buck on Monday—every shopper gets a discount and Tuesday, seniors get discounts. This is a two-for—every purchase also helps Easter Seals of NW Ohio. Be creative and let your heart lead the way to helping families get back on their feet.

Coffee and SuchCoffee and Such will continue as long as it is being supported! Meet on Tuesday, March 19, at 5:30 p.m. at Barry Bagels, 4024 N. Holland-Sylvania Rd (behind Handel’s). Contact Miss Kate to RSVP. We will also meet on Tuesday, April 16.

Lunch BunchLunch Bunch will meet at 12 noon on Tuesday, April 2 at Elephant Bar located at Franklin Park Mall. Get coupons in Sunday’s paper. Contact Miss Kate to RSVP.

Mom’s GroupMarch 17, 4:30-6:00 p.m.

Are you in a “mixed marriage”—married to someone who doesn’t share your faith in Christ (or maybe even in God)? This difference grows in significance when children arrive. Pastor Carol Williams-Young will describe how she and her husband of more than 33 years navigated these waters as they raised their daughter and now as she serves in Christian ministry. If you are in a similar situation with a spouse or companion, or if you regularly interact with non-believing friends and family, you are invited to hear her story.

As Christians prepare for the holy celebration of Easter, how do you emphasize spirituality in this season when others you love see Easter as only a secular holiday of colored eggs and baskets of goodies? Come share ideas and struggles with other moms of babies, toddlers, and preschoolers.

Wondering What To Do With Your Old Phone Book?

Josina Lott Industries has placed a collection bin in our lower level entry (across from the offices). The Lott Industries clients benefit by tearing the old phone books to get them ready for recycling. (Phone books only please.)

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It’s time for PROJECT: FEED 5000

They’re back! Starting Sunday, March 17, the Feed 5000 boxes will be available for the taking to fill with food and toiletries to assist the many hungry men, women and children in our local Toledo area. “Project: Feed 5000” is inspired by Jesus’ feeding of the 5000, found in Matthew 14:13-21. Last year, with the help of our partner churches, we collected almost enough boxes to fulfill one month’s worth of Feed Your Neighbor’s meals to their clientele. What a significant impact this project has made on our local community! Our goal, along with other area churches, is to fill 1,250 boxes, so that we can feed 5,000 local Toledoans for two days.

Sunday, March 17, and also Sundays March 24 and 31, boxes, tape for the box bottom, and a detailed food list will be distributed after each church service. They will also be available during the week through the church office at Epworth.

Listed are the food and hygiene items that will feed and care for a family of four for two days.

If you are unable to shop, or just can’t get to it, the Community Outreach Committee has several volunteers who will shop for you. Just make out a check to “Epworth UMC-Feed 5000” and turn it in to the church office. We welcome your contribution and will purchase the items for you.

Also, consider other opportunities for filling boxes, such as making it an office, bunco, or card club project, or simply having everyone in your family fill a box to feel a sense of involvement in helping others.

On Sundays, April 7,14 and 21, we will be collecting the filled boxes. The truck from Feed Your Neighbor will pick the boxes up and the boxes will be split between the thirteen Feed Your Neighbor pantries.

The Community Outreach Committee is very excited about once again providing this opportunity to Epworth members and the other participating churches involved to help our neighbors in need. Many volunteers are needed from our whole congregation to help this project succeed. If you would like to help, please contact Ellen Hurd or Feed5000@epworth.com. Let’s work together to fill all 1,250 boxes!

FEED 5000 Food ListEmergency food and hygiene items for a family of four for two days

2 cans meat (12 – 24 oz. each) e.g., tuna, beef stew, Spam, etc.2 cans vegetables (14.5 oz. each) e.g., beans, beets, carrots, corn, peas, etc.2 cans fruit (16oz. each) e.g., peaches, pears, pineapple, fruit cocktail, etc.2 cans soup (10 ¾ oz. each)2 boxes macaroni and cheese or rice (7 ¼ oz. each)1 lb. dried beans or 1 large can baked beans 1 box of crackers-any kind and any size (should be able to fit in the Feed 5000 box.)Breakfast bars (e.g., Special K, Fiber One. NO poptarts)1 jar peanut butter (18 oz.), creamy style1 can spaghetti sauce (15 – 26 oz.) (NO glass)1 lb. spaghetti1 or more toothbrushes 1 tube of toothpaste

(Please do not send dented cans.)

Mark your calendar—S4 is back! April 20, Spring Super Saturday of Service.

April 21, Dinner and Celebration FOR ALL AGES. Watch for more to come.

Free Computer Classes at Epworth!The Toledo Lucas County Library computer bus will be at Epworth from 1:30 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. on the following dates:

April 1 April 29

Plan to take advantage of these FREE classes and bring a friend! Contact Sherry Clark in Health Ministries at sherry@epworth.com for more information.

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Mark Your CalendarsThis year’s Vacation Bible School, “Kingdom Rock,” will be Sunday through Thursday evening, June 16-20, and Monday through Friday morning, June 17-21.

Kingdom OpportunitiesIf you haven’t had the privilege of teaching a class in our elementary Kingdom classes, now is your chance to serve. We are looking for teachers for April and May. The teachers have a different group of children each week, led by their shepherd. All of the lessons are planned for you, and all of the materials are ready for you. The children would love to get to know you! Please sign up by calling the Education office.

LOVE OUR LAMBSPreschool needs loving arms and warm hearts to care for our 3, 4, and 5 year olds at 9:45 and 11:00 in March, April, and May. Please consider helping in this area. The 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.

Holy Conversation(or, “How to Be as Comfortable Talking About Your Faith as about What You Read on the Internet”)Talking about faith-related topics is uncomfortable for most people. But Christians are called to do just that! Fortunately, there are ways to comfortably share what church and faith mean to you while learning about what is important to others. In this course, Pastor Carol will provide tools for engaging in “Holy Conversation”—respectful dialogue that includes talking and listening to others. And as you learn how to talk about faith with others, don’t be surprised to find your own faith deepening as well! The class will meet weekly for six weeks, Tuesdays from 7-8:30 p.m., beginning April 2, in room 214.

Friendly Center Easter Eggs Friendly Center will again have an Easter Party. There is a plastic container in the cloister (until March 10) to collect the regular-size plastic Easter eggs filled with candy. Please tape the plastic eggs to assure that the eggs don’t open up. Have your children help fill eggs and bring them in for this worthy cause. A great cause for UMW circles or small groups, too. The candy must be sealed in a plastic bag before being placed in the egg. This is done so that when the children open the egg, the candy does not fly out all over.

Kingdom Rock PartyKids and Parents, you are invited to a special VBS Rock Party, a preview of what will be happening at Kingdom Rock this summer. You can register early, get a free gift, and have some Kingdom Rock fun! Drop in to the Family Life Center Sunday, April 14, any time between 11:00-1:00.

Vacation Bible School Decorating Supplies

Education is busily preparing the decorations for this year’s Kingdom Rock Vacation Bible School. We are looking for donations of the following items: 2 or 3 lb. metal coffee cans, solid color material (purples, reds, blues, silver metallic), round sleds (will be painted but can be returned to owner). These supplies may be dropped off to the church office.

SIXTH GRADE MILESTONESunday, March 10

On March 10 at 11:00 students and their parents are invited to their Milestone, “Preteen Passage.” Family involvement is the foundational ingredient of this Milestone. We will be looking at ways to nurture your student’s faith as they grow and change through Faith Talks, God Sightings, and The Blessing. Sign up on the Opportunities Page or call the Education office. This experience will be in the sixth grade classroom, room 206.

BABY BLESSINGSSunday, April 21

On Sunday, April 21, at 11:00, parents of babies up to two years old will gather to celebrate their little ones. We will talk about raising children of faith, finding God Sightings each day, and writing a Blessing for your child. Call the Education office to sign up for this once a year event.

NEW CLASS

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FOUNDATION FACTS

Epworth Foundation Reaches 66th YearThe Epworth United Methodist Church Foundation was officially 66 years old on March!

Although the Foundation has been in existence longer than most of us have been members of the church, the Foundation Trustees have found that not only the existence, but also the purpose and good works of the Foundation have not been adequately lifted up to the congregation for some time.

The Foundation was created with the purpose of supporting Epworth United Methodist Church toward the fulfillment of its mission of “communicating the good news of God’s presence” to the community and beyond.

The Foundation is charged with the ministry of careful stewardship of the bequests and other gifts made to Epworth by members and others in the community. Over the years the Foundation has used its funds to support the maintenance and improvement of the Church property, has made distributions for mission support, has helped provide funds for youth work teams and other youth projects, and has supported the church’s music ministry, among other important church missions.

Currently the Foundation contributes approximately 4% of its unrestricted fund balance each year to the Board of Trustees of the church for capital purposes and approximately 2% for mission outreach, as well as 5% of the funds for mission work from the Foundation’s specific Mission Endowment Fund. Without these distributions from the Foundation, the church’s overall mission of communicating God’s presence to the world would be significantly hampered.

For this reason we would like to encourage all of you to remember the Church/Foundation when you prepare your personal estate plans and/or when you simply realize all of the blessings the Lord has bestowed upon you and would like to give something back to provide support for communicating his presence to the world.

If you have any questions about the Foundation or would like to make a bequest or other contribution, please contact Treasurer Peter Machin, Asst. Treasurer Willard Smith, or Tom Christensen, Chairman of the Foundation Trustees. All can be reached through the church office.

Tom Christensen, Chair Epworth Foundation Trustees

We have a Baby Boom in the Preschool WingFact: In 2010, the average class size for the 3-5 year olds during both 9:45 and 11:00 was around 6 students. This required only 1 teacher for each hour.

Fact: Since January 2013, we are averaging over 12 children at 9:45 and often swelling to over 15 children at 11:00! We are truly blessed!

Obstacle: We need more hands on deck to share their love of children and love of Christ with these little lambs.

Here’s the Opportunity: Grandparents, Aunts/Uncles, Teenagers who love children…this is your chance to come and share an hour of your time showing these 3-5 yr-olds that they are loved by God.

We have a staff member work each week to carefully craft lessons that are hands-on and engaging to these little ones. So, all you need to do is read through the materials at home and then walk in and share an hour of your time and love. If you are not comfortable teaching, but would love to come in and read, play with, or help pass out snacks, we can pair you with one of our veteran volunteers.

Please call Mary Roesti in the Education office for more information or to sign up to help! 419-531-4236.

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Health Ministries

Health Ministries Moment: THE HEALTH CONTRIBUTION OF MUSICThe following intends to summarize three considerations in connecting music to health. These are Listening, Playing and Serving.

LISTENING “Music has a special power to move us and stir our emotions. Anyone who has ever wiped tears away from their eyes listening to their favorite sad song will know how powerful simple notes and chords can be. Now, scientific studies have shown that music really can change our mood and even help us concentrate. Consider: mood boost, focus (anxious or stressed), pick up the pace, better mental health, de-stress, patient care.”'There's a very wide range of reactions in the body and mind to music, and brain imaging studies have shown that various parts of the brain may be activated by a piece of music,' says Dr. Victoria Williamson, lecturer in psychology at Goldsmith's College, London. 'Music can be incredibly useful for somebody who is in a situation where they have lost a lot of control from their external environment – say they are in hospital for a long period of time with a serious illness and less able to move around,' says Dr. Williamson.'It can give them a sense of control back, as well as creating a calm personal atmosphere and blocking out some of the disturbances around the patient.' Source: Health Benefits of Music by Adam Ramsey, health journalist at www.netdoctor.co.uk/healthy-living wellbeing/health-benefits-of-music.html

PLAYING AND SERVINGMusic Therapy is an established health profession in which music is used within a therapeutic relationship to address physical, emotional, cognitive, and social needs of individuals. After assessing the strengths and needs of each client, the qualified music therapist provides the indicated treatment including creating, singing, moving to, and/or listening to music. Through musical involvement in the therapeutic context, clients' abilities are strengthened and transferred to other areas of their lives. Music therapy also provides avenues for communication that can be helpful to those who find it difficult to express themselves in words. Research in music therapy supports its effectiveness in many areas such as: overall physical rehabilitation and facilitating movement, increasing people's motivation to become engaged in their treatment, providing emotional support for clients and their families, and providing an outlet for expression of feelings. Source: American Music Therapy Association at www.musictherapy.org/about/musictherapy/

You don't have to have a therapist to benefit. The Joe Laconey Band at the Sylvania Senior Center consists of about 20 musicians who get great personal benefit by participating, as well as playing for nursing facility residents or other Senior Centers every Wednesday. The band also plays for special events at the Sylvania Center.

Try it. Make a point to listen or play every day. You will be glad you did.

Epworth members Allyson France and her grandmother, Mary Wheeler

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Coming Soon:

Holy Health Fair* Sunday, April 21

* 9:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. in the Family Life Center

* Health and Wellness Screenings

* Massages

* “Hands-on Disability Simulations” for the whole family

* Popcorn and Snacks!

* Many community exhibitors. Representatives available to answer questions.

* Open to the public. Invite your friends!

“Caring for the Caregiver” Classes

“Caring for the Caregiver” is a 3-part series of workshops that will be hosted by Health Ministries and presented by Hospice of Northwest Ohio at Epworth. The workshop dates are on the following

Tuesday afternoons from 3:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. at Epworth: March 12, March 19, and March 26.

You may register for classes now by calling the church office at 419-531-4236. These classes are open to the community, and class size will be limited to a maximum of 12 caregivers.

Arrangements can be made for respite care for your loved one in order for you to attend the workshops if needed. Please let us know if you need this assistance at the time of registration.

If you are interested in this workshop, or would like some more information, please contact Sherry Clark in Health Ministries at sherry@epworth.com.

Health Ministries

New Support Group coming soon: Men’s Grief Group

We are so pleased to announce that the first meeting of a new Men’s Grief Support Group will be on the morning of Thursday, April 25. This first meeting will be an informal breakfast meeting at Scrambler Marie’s on Central Avenue at 8:00 a.m.

Rex Decker will be the facilitator of this group, and the focus of the group will be on men dealing with loss, and support for men on their grief journeys.

There will also be an emphasis on the faith aspect during the grieving process and how faith comes into play during the grieving process.

This group is open to both Epworth members and the community. For more information, please contact Sherry Clark in Health Ministries at sherry@epworth.com.

Heart Day a Success!

Health Ministries committee sponsored a Heart Day on Sunday, February 3, to

promote heart disease awareness and prevention. ProMedica was at Epworth and performed over 30 heart screenings. Also, Allyson France, representative of the American Heart Association was in the cloister with a large variety of heart-related information.

And the committee would also like to thank our congregation for writing over 150 Valentines

to our homebound members! These Valentine messages were so

appreciated!

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St. Paul’s Monthly Meals 2013Over 1,500 meals were prepared and served by Epworth members and families at St. Paul’s, with many thanks to all of the groups that served in 2012! We are in need of volunteers to make and serve a lunch at St. Paul’s Community Center on the first Saturday of each month May to November for 2013. This is a great ministry and the perfect project for families, Wesley groups, Sunday School classes, Share groups and committees.

Please contact the church office if you are able to contribute, prepare or serve a lunch for St. Paul’s, which provides an important service to the homeless in our community.

Epworth is part of a Fuller Seminary CohortEighteen months ago, Epworth received the consultation and recommendations by church consultant Doug Anderson. Anderson gave us many recommendations, and the Administrative Council narrowed down, and prioritized them. However, now that the recommendations have been prioritized, we are left with the hard work of implementation.

To that point, Epworth has embarked on a year-long intensive training through Fuller Seminary to help us develop a customized implementation plan. There are a total of 17 churches throughout the country that are involved along with Epworth in the 2013 Cohort. In the last three years, there have been a total of 57 churches involved in this process. These churches are located across the country and represent denominational churches such as United Methodist, Lutheran, Presbyterian as well as non-denominationals.

As a church, we are blessed to have Epworth's Cohort participation funded through our Epworth Student Ministries Endowment. However, the customized implementation plan will be far-reaching into many aspects of our church community. Just as the Anderson report covered a broad range of areas to grow and strengthen Epworth, this plan will focus

on aspects of our education ministries, mission work, worship experiences, and even potential changes to our physical building space.

Epworth's Cohort Core Team consists of Pastors Bob Thomas and Keith Luke, Administrative Council Chair Doug Gorsuch, Dana Jamgochian, Mary Roesti, Bob Knowles and Chuck Campos. Special thanks and prayers go out to this team as they not only diligently work to undertake this training from Fuller Seminary, but also as they travel, and bring back their leadership to our church family as we all work towards the vision cast by Anderson.

It is important to stress that the development of our Implementation Plan will involve our entire church, not just the six core team members. All of Administrative Council, Epworth's staff, as well as all of our Ministry Teams will be a part of the broader implementation plan.

As Epworth begins our one year journey with the Fuller Seminary Cohort , we ask that the congregation share the hope and optimism and trust in the Lord regarding the implementation strategies that will be developed for Epworth.

Body RecallFebruary was a special month in Body Recall. We celebrated 29 years of strong fitness classes. Even more, several students received their 10-year award and two students their 20-year award. Imagine yourself in 20 years, and ask yourself, "Will I be able to do this activity when I'm THAT old?" (Smile, whatever your age!)

I'd wondered the same thing myself, but seeing students who weren't able to get to the floor when they began coming, go to the floor and get up again in an educated way (even with knee and hip replacements) keeps the truth of "use it or lose it" a great motivator, even for me.

Next February, Epworth will celebrate 30 years of this outreach ministry, which celebrates the gift of life, and movement in every session. New classes begin with each season of the year. If you missed winter, sign up for spring classes beginning March 25, and meeting three times a week (M, T, Th) at 9, 10, and 4:00. No matter what your age or physical ability, whether you are free of handicaps or full of them, Body Recall is a challenge at every level. Begin where you are and USE IT! Phone Nancy in the office for a registration form, or with questions about classes.

Brenda Kunkel, Pam Christensen, Certified Leaders

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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

p.m. The next opportunities to join us are: March, 14 at Linda Coon’s house. RSVP to Linda. April 16, at Karen Wykoff’s house. RSVP to Karen.

Friends in Faith Book ClubOn Tuesday, April 23, in the Volunteer Office, we will be discussing The Quality of Mercy by Faye Kellerman at 7:00 p.m.

Serving at St. Paul’sFriends in Faith will be serving the St. Paul’s meal at noon on April 6. We need volunteers to shop, cook and serve. We also need financial contributions. Please contact Ronnie Gorsuch if you are willing to put your faith in action by helping with this outreach opportunity.

Friends in Faith Sunday SchoolStarting February 3, Friends in Faith began the 10-week Bible study of the life of Jonathan by author Erwin McManus called Chasing Daylight in room 101 at 9:45 a.m. New members or visitors are welcome at any time!

Scout Sunday, celebrated on February 10, 2013!

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Epworth Sunday Morning Education Program

Nursery, Toddler, and Pre-schoolNursery and Toddler childcare meet at 8:30, 9:45, and 11:00 in the pre-school wing.

Did you know that we now offer more than childcare to our toddlers? We have begun using the Play-N-Worship curriculum that our preschoolers love so much. These lessons are geared to two year olds, and helps them know how much we love them, and how much God loves them.

Pre-school Education 2012-2013 Preschool children ages 3-5 years-old not yet in kindergarten are invited to join us Sunday morning in rooms 112 and 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 Pennies for Jesus offering to buy Children’s Bibles to send with our mission teams. This exciting new approach to preschool education will have your child singing, praying, and worshiping all week long!

Elementary (Kindergarten through Fifth Grade) at 9:45Each week we all begin in room 205 at 9:45 to experience the Oasis, a place to refresh and renew your spirit through music, drama, and prayer. Then at 10:00, we move to other rooms with shepherds for games, cooking, art, and science activities.

Elementary (Kindergarten through Third Grade) at 11:00WOW (Worship Our Way)

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.

Sixth Grade SLAM class at 9:45 in room 206.

Donuts and the Bible Junior High, Room 003 off the FLC Senior High, Room 215

Adult Education at 9:45 a.m.Parents Unite, Room 213Parents Unite will begin the new year with the HomeBuilders series “Raising Children of Faith.” Join us for a great discussion about such topics as “Building Character in Your Children” and “Helping Your Children Walk with God.” We’ll also share some ideas for getting the kids involved at home, and they’ll never know they’re doing “Sunday School homework!” Drop off the kids, grab your caffeine of choice, and be there!

Adult Bible Study, Room 214We will continue, through the first two or three weeks of March, the Promises of God series we began in January. We will then begin a four-part DVD series in the study of “Paul.” We will study (1) How Jesus invited this young hothead to change his life, (2) How Paul responded to God’s call to share with others the message that had transformed him, (3) How Paul the theologian unfolds a history-changing concept, and finally (4) How Paul cared for people as the pastor and mentor. We will look at the question, what does Paul’s conversion and growth in Christianity suggest about our own experience? Join us anytime; we welcome your participation. No preparation is needed. Bring a friend!

Coffee and Conversation Class, Room 020 (Volunteer Office)Come and join in a lively discussion about money! From ancient times and into the future, money has driven and will drive both the secular and the sacred worlds. From birth, throughout life, to death, and even beyond death, money is a force in everyone’s life. We will be discussing the book, Money and the Meaning of Life, by Jacob Needleman. (The coffee’s pretty good too!)

Epworth Sunday Morning Education continued

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Epworth Sunday Morning Education continued

When you can’t get “here” from “there”….well, where there’s a will there’s a way! During two Sundays in January, Central Ave. was closed and some of us couldn’t figure out how to get to church. So here are some alternate routes. (Be sure to clip out this article and keep it in your car.)

If you come westbound on Central, turn left on Brookside Rd. (one block before Corey Rd.) Then turn right on Valleyview Dr. Another possibility is to take Talmadge south past Central; turn right on Indian Rd., which curves to Brookside, then turn right on Valleyview.

If you come eastbound on Central, and can go under the viaduct, turn right on Hasty Rd; left on Damascus Dr.; right on S. Derby Rd; left on Edgehill Rd; left onto Valleyview. (In other words, wind your way here.)

If the viaduct is flooded or closed, go south on Reynolds to Bancroft; then go east till you reach Talmadge and follow one of the above routes.

Don’t worry about being late! You will not be the only one.

Friends in Faith, Room 101Starting February 3, Friends in Faith began the 10-week Bible study of the life of Jonathan by author Erwin McManus called Chasing Daylight. In this inspiring book the author uses the biblical account of Israel’s war with the Philistines (1Samuel 13-14) and the characters of Jonathan and Samuel to demonstrate the difference between living a life of purpose and adventure, and living one of apathy and missed opportunity. Through this story, McManus artfully illustrates the eight characteristics of an adventurer’s heart, what he calls the “Jonathan factor.” He uses powerful examples from his own life, along with fresh biblical teaching to assert that God crafts divine moments specific to each of us—priceless opportunities for us to actively engage in God’s big picture plan.

Adult Education at 11:00 a.m.Sermon Notes Discussion, Room 214 The topic for discussion each week relates to the sermon of the day, guided by the weekly sermon notes. Feel free to drop in any time. The discussion is always interesting.

Mark your calendar—S4 is back! April 20, Spring Super Saturday of Service.

April 21 Dinner and Celebration FOR ALL AGES. Watch for more to come.

Furniture MinistryNext pickup dates are: March 9, 23.Client selection dates are March 16, April 20.Call 567-694-3710 to arrange for a donation pickup.

It’s Time To Make The Cookies! T.O.C.I. Kairos is coming up and once again Epworth has a four members who are serving on the Team who need your help. One of the ways that Kairos uses to show the residents “God’s Agape Love” is to provide “home-made” cookies for them. These cookies are seen as signs of love and a sense of caring from the community, but more important, these cookies are also distributed by residents who are on the Kairos weekend to inmates that are in their cell block, as a tool for them to share this agape love.

And this is where you, as members of Epworth, come in. We need 600 dozen cookies. Members from Kairos will be in the cloister Sunday, March 10, looking for volunteers to help us make these cookies and return them no later than Friday, March 15 by 5:00 p.m. Please stop by and sign our cookie sheet and help spread God’s agape love to some men who are in desperate need of it. Directions for baking can be picked up in the cloister. Questions? Contact Kurt Vetter.

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Treasurer’s Report February 2013 On February 11, 2013 Epworth’s Administrative Council approved the following General Operating & Benevolence Budget for 2013 that was developed and proposed by our Finance Committee. For comparison purposes, 2012 actual results are shown as well.

As you can see from the table above, Total Resources are budgeted to increase only 0.4% primarily due to lower than expected results of our annual Stewardship Campaign which yielded pledged commitments that were 0.7% below 2012’s actual pledge receipts. Total Expenses are budgeted to increase 4.6% due to general increases in the costs associated with programs, facilities, operations, personnel as well as Conference & District apportionments. Also per this budget, we are able to maintain our level of support to Outreach & Missions. Total Resources minus Total Expenses yields a deficit budget of $51,000 for the year. The Administrative Council approved the transfer of $26,000 from our General Fund surpluses to reduce the expected deficit to $25,000 as shown. This $25,000 deficit budget represents a “faith budget” and it is once again hoped that our congregation will respond with the additional generosity and support they have shown in past years. As an historical point of reference, each year since 2009, Epworth has adopted a deficit annul budget only to finish the year with a surplus. It is hoped that this will be the case again this year as our faithful members respond to the need. As always, I am available to answer your questions. Peter Machin Treasurer

2012 2013 %Resources Actual Budget Change Pledges 1,153,111$ 1,145,000$ -0.7% Unpledged Contributions 108,591$ 110,000$ Holiday & Loose Offerings 54,213$ 52,500$ All Other 48,280$ 61,500$ Total Resources 1,364,195$ 1,369,000$ 0.4%

Expenses Programs 78,342$ 89,750$ Facilities 261,391$ 265,000$ Administration 40,622$ 42,500$ Personnel 725,726$ 766,000$ Apportionments 180,672$ 190,845$ Outreach & Missions 61,363$ 60,000$ All Other 9,133$ 5,905$ Total Expenses 1,357,249$ 1,420,000$ 4.6%

Resources Over / (Under) Expenses 6,946$ (51,000)$ Transfer from Prior Years' Surplus -$ 26,000$ Total Year Surplus / (Deficit) 6,946$ (25,000)$

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Easter Sunday Flowers

Decorating the church for Easter Sunday services is a project of the Worship Work Area. We are offering you two ways to participate in the Easter celebration:

• If you would like to honor or memorialize a loved one you may contribute to the Easter Display and your commemoration will be listed.

• If you would like to contribute and be able to take home a plant of daffodils, tulips, lilies or hyacinthsplease check the appropriate line.

You may mail the form with your check to the church office or place in the offering plate on Sunday. Any over-subscription of flowers will be place in a “floral fund” for use through the year.

If you have chosen to support a plant, please pick up the plant AFTER the 11:00 a.m. Easter Service. Thanks again for your support of this Epworth Ministry.

ORDER DEADLINE IS MONDAY, March 18.

Indicate the number of each flower you prefer:

_____Yellow Tulips($10) _____Easter Display($25)

_____White Hyacinths($10) _____White Lilies($10)

_____Yellow Daffodils($10)

Donor:_________________________________________________________________________________(Please Print Clearly—as you wish it listed)

Telephone#________________________________________

In Memory of:___________________________________________________________________________or

In Honor of:_____________________________________________________________________________ (Will be listed in the bulletin on Easter Sunday)

Make checks payable to Epworth United Methodist Church

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Questions about Epworth Student Ministries? Call Bob Knowles or Chuck Campos

4855 W. Central AvenueToledo, Ohio 43615-2337

ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED

DEADLINE FOR NEXT TOWER ARTICLES - MONDAY, APRIL 1 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

3/08-10 Fri-Sun Confirmation Retreat D Friday 7:00 pm - Sunday 12:303/10 Sunday 9:45 am Junior & Senior Donuts & The Bible 6 & 7.5 SWAT’s3/17 Sunday 9:45 am Junior & Senior Donuts & The Bible 6 & 7.5 SWAT’s3/24 Palm Sunday 9:45 am Junior & Senior Donuts & The Bible 6 & 7.5 SWATs3/28 Thursday Maundy Thursday worship --- Confirmation Element3/31 Easter Sunday No Donuts & The Bible clases - Easter Worship NO SWATs4/07 Sunday 9:45 am Junior & Senior Donuts & The Bible 9:45 am Confirmation Class #5 6 & 7.5 SWATs4/14 Sunday 9:45 am Junior & Senior Donuts & The Bible 6 & 7.5 SWATs4/20-21 Sat/Sun Junior SWAT & Confirmation Spring Retreat4/21 Sun 5:30 pm Spring Celebration - NO SWATs

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