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PRAYER REQUESTSClergy, clergy families, and churches in transition.
Russ Hines, who is at Wesbury after having a tumor (expected to be benign) removed from his spine on Sunday, August 26th at Hamot.
Jerome Alsdorf, who has health concerns.
Devon Lawton, daughter of Dennis and Doreen Lawton, who suffered severe burns while in Ireland, is now home and healing well with no further treatment necessary. She is back at Allegheny College for her third year and is not experiencing any ill effects. Thanks come from her parents for all those who offered support, prayer, and encouragement.
Sarah Roncolato and family, whose father passed away on Wednesday, August 29th.
The family of Rev. Paul Sparrer, who passed away on Tuesday, August 28th.
BIRTHDAYSThursday, September 27th – Anna Judd, Robert Klingler, Robert Lewis, & Joseph Parkinson
Saturday, September 29th – Denny Belknap, Sr.
Sunday, September 30th – Craig Gray
Tuesday, October 2nd – RaeLynn Belknap, Samuel Fehl, & Mark Shettler
IMPORTANT DATES(Check sections for more information.)
Wednesday, September 26th – Church Conference (District Notables), One-on-One Meetings (District Notables), Energy Star Workshop (Conference Events)
Thursday, September 27th – One-on-One Meetings (District Notables)
Thursday, September 27th to Sunday, September 30th – EarthKeepers Training (Conference Events)
Friday, September 28th – #SeeAllThePeople (Conference Website Links & Conference Events)
Friday, September 28th to Saturday, September 29th – Huge Indoor Yard Sale (District Events)
Friday, September 28th to Sunday, September 30th – Autism Family Retreat 2018 (Conference Events)
Saturday, September 29th – Chili Fest (District Events), 2nd Annual Mission Round-Up (Bulletin Board – All God’s Children Ministries), #SeeAllThePeople (Conference Website Links & Conference Events)
Sunday, September 30th – Erie-Meadville District Installation Service (District Notables & Bulletin Board), Baked Potato Luncheon (District Events)
Monday, October 1st – Church Conference (District Notables), One-on-One Meetings (District Notables)
Tuesday, October 2nd – Living Faithfully: Human Sexuality and The United Methodist Church (Conference Events)
Tuesday, October 2nd to Thursday, October 4th – Fixing Church Workshop (Conference Events)
ANNIVERSARIESTuesday, October 2nd – John & Pamela Donner
In the short time that I have been among you, I have been impressed. First, as I have visited churches, I have been blessed by vital worship and good Biblical preaching. I have left morning worship challenged and empowered. Secondly, I have observed creative and faithful mission and ministry being done by laity and clergy alike. I am encouraged. In a day when we are tempted to be distracted by division and disagreement, I see our pastors and people striving to focus on making disciples of Jesus. This is our core value, the “main thing.” It is the thing that binds us together as United Methodists.
To many persons, these seem like uncertain times. I beg to differ. I am certain about several things. I am certain that the Holy Spirit is alive and working among the people called United Methodists. I am certain that the love that God has given us for God and for each other is stronger than any disagreement among us. And I am most certain that God will fulfill God’s plans and purpose for us.
Instead of uncertainty, I pray for a spirit of anticipation and renewal as we focus on the main thing. Together we are the people of God and our unity is in our common commitment to transform lives by allowing the Holy Spirit to do good things in and through us.
I am certain that God is with us and that God is working among us.
Praying for renewal,
DennisA bluegrass band? Really?
It’s true! Seventh Day, a bluegrass worship band made up of United Methodists from Saegertown and Hamlin Chapel UMCs, will help lead worship and praise at the Erie-Meadville District Superintendent’s installation service. The music team and choir of Edinboro UMC will also share their gifts to help us celebrate God’s presence in our midst as we begin a new season in our life as a district. Clergy and laity from across our district will be participating in the service, which is on Sunday, September 30th at 3pm at Edinboro UMC. Bishop Cynthia Moore-Koikoi will lead the covenant service and other cabinet members will be present. There will be a time of food and fellowship following the service.
CLERGY MOVING EXPENSES AND PAPERWORKClergy who moved to new appointments in 2018 need to email their moving expenses to Kathleen Lasky, Conference Benefits Officer, at [email protected]. You may be surprised to learn that the recently passed Tax Cuts and Jobs Act will require treating your moving expenses as income (SEE STATEMENT). Additionally, please make sure to complete the appropriate paperwork when moving (available on the Conference website).
CHURCH CONFERENCESPlease find the updated schedule for Church Conferences attached to this email. If there are any scheduling conflicts, please contact another church/charge to switch dates and let the District Office know a change has been made to the schedule. Please note that the Church Conference Summary Form is due two weeks before the conference.
ONE-ON-ONE MEETINGSPlease find the updated schedule for One-on-Ones attached to this email. Again, if there are any scheduling conflicts, please contact another pastor to switch dates/times and let the District Office know a change has been made to the schedule. Interviews will be held at the District Office (341 Main Street, Suite 3, Saegertown, PA 16433). Please park in the gravel lot off Alden Alley, which intersects with Main Street. Enter the Haskins Building
through the green door on the south wall (the entrance is well marked with signage). Suite 3 is located at the end of the hall on the right.
Please be sure that your clergy profile is updated online and your Clergy Evaluations (due May 15 th) and Fund Balance Report (due March 1st) are submitted before your One-on-One takes place. Remember to bring a printed copy of your completed clergy profile and church profile for Cabinet. Please also bring a copy of the Self-Care Covenant. In preparation for its completion, please refer to the Health as Wholeness (HAW) Overview.
ERIE-MEADVILLE DISTRICT INSTALLATION SERVICEThe Erie-Meadville District’s installation service for Dennis will be held on Sunday, September 30th at 3pm at Edinboro UMC. A free-will offering will be received for All God’s Children Ministries. Childcare will be provided.
HUGE INDOOR YARD SALEFriday, September 28th and Saturday, September 29th, Union City First UMC (42 East High Street, Union City, PA 16438)A HUGE indoor yard sale will take place this weekend with a variety of items for sale, including furniture (some vintage pieces), puzzles/board games, toys/stuffed animals, electronics, home décor, and much more! Hours are from 9am to 4pm on Friday and from 9am to 3pm on Saturday. Proceeds will benefit Living Waters for the World and other outreach ministries of Union City First UMC.
CHILI FESTSaturday, September 29th, 4pm to 6pm, Harmonsburg UMC (14182 First Street, Harmonsburg, PA 16422)Patrons may choose from mild, medium, and WOW with all the fixings to top it off. Beverages and homemade pies will also be available. All this for a donation of $6 with children under 6 FREE. Musical entertainment will be provided by “Crazy” Larry and 7 th Day.
BAKED POTATO LUNCHEONSunday, September 30th, 12:30pm to 2:30pm, Union City First UMC (42 East High Street, Union City, PA 16438)Join LIFE Youth Group for its annual Baked Potato Luncheon! Enjoy baked (and smoked) potatoes with a variety of toppings. Cost of the luncheon is by donation and all proceeds will benefit the youth group’s 2019 summer programming. For more information, call 814-438-2113.
CHICKEN AND BISCUIT DINNERThursday, October 4th, 4pm to 6:30pm, Weis Library UMC (6020 Heidler Road, Fairview, PA 16415)Weis Library UMC youth will be hosting a chicken and biscuit dinner. Cost is $6 for adults and children over the age of 10. Children ages 3 through 10 are just $3 and children under age 3 are FREE. Proceeds benefit the youth group.
MISSION LUNCHEONWednesday, October 10th, 11am to 1pm, Harmonsburg UMC (14182 First Street, Harmonsburg, PA 16422)For a $6 donation, guests can select from a variety of fresh homemade soup, sandwiches, and an assortment of pie. Options may include chicken noodle, ham and bean, or stuffed pepper soup; pulled pork, sloppy joe, egg salad, or chicken salad sandwich; and a slice of homemade pie with beverage. Mark your calendar now and plan to join friends for a light lunch while enjoying the fantastic fall weather. Funds raised will support various mission projects sponsored by Harmonsburg UMC. For more information, call 814-382-8208.
MESSY CHURCHThursday, October 11th, 5:30pm to 7:30pm, Erie Summit UMC (1510 Townhall Road, Erie, PA 16509)Messy Church creates the opportunity for parents, grandparents, caregivers, and children to enjoy expressing their creativity, sit down together to eat a meal, experience worship, and have fun within a church context. Join this once-a-month worship experience. For more information, call 814-864-3271.
RESCHEDULED: LAKEWOOD BOOK SALEFriday, October 12th and Saturday, October 13th, Erie Lakewood UMC (3856 West 10th Street, Erie, PA 16505)Calling all book lovers! Erie Lakewood UMC is having its annual book sale during the first weekend of October. Come check out our wide variety of books. Times are Friday from noon to 8pm and Saturday from 8am to 2pm. All proceeds support mission and outreach projects. For more information, call the church office at 814-833-4131. www.lakewooderie.org
SHINE, JESUS, SHINEFriday, October 19th to Sunday, October 21st, Erie Trinity UMC (3952 Pine Avenue, Erie, PA 16504)Is the light of your love shining? Experience an opportunity to refresh and renew your spirit at Shine, Jesus, Shine. Led by evangelists John and Christine Zimmerman with music by Byron and Suzy Chertik. There will be four unique sessions – attend one or attend all! The event begins on Friday evening with John presenting “Becoming a Spiritual Adventurer.” He will return on Saturday with Christine to discuss “Sharing Your Faith and Being like Jesus.” On Saturday evening, Christine will share “Just an Ordinary Person.” The event concludes on Sunday morning with a message,
“Assembling the Puzzle,” by Pastor Chris Kindle. For more information, visit www.erietumc.org/events.
CREATIVE CRAFTERS DAYSaturday, October 20th, 9am to 8pm, Erie Summit UMC (1510 Townhall Road, Erie, PA 16509)Perfect day to scrapbook, quilt, sew, make cards, crochet, knit, read, or work on any kind of project. Make it your time! Cost is $35 and includes lunch and dinner. Proceeds benefit the Summit UMC Won by One to Jamaica mission trip. RSVP and payment are due by Monday, October 15th to Mandy Barney (814-460-6955 or [email protected]).
55 TH ANNUAL HARVEST HOME SUPPER Saturday, October 20th, 5pm to 7pm, Franklin Center UMC (7471 Old State Road, Edinboro, PA 16412)Menu includes Swiss steak, mashed potatoes and gravy, green beans, corn, squash, coleslaw, dinner rolls, pie, and beverage. Cost is $10 for adults, $5 for children ages 6 through 12, and FREE for children under 6. Tickets are available at the door. Takeout is available. Building is handicap accessible. For more information, call 814-734-4691.
RUMMAGE SALEThursday, October 25th to Saturday, October 27th, starting at 9am each day, Lawrence Park UMC (4015 Niagara Place, Erie, PA 16511)
FALL CRAFT AND VENDOR FAIRSaturday, October 27th, 9am to 2pm, Albion Grace UMC (49 Franklin Street, Albion, PA 16401)For more information, contact the church at 814-756-3464 or [email protected]. LEARN MORE
RESCHEDULED: SITUATION IN JERUSALEMDATE TBA, Meadville Grace UMC (828 North Main Street, Meadville, PA 16335)Tina Whitehead, a volunteer missionary to the Middle East from our own Western PA Conference, will share about the situation in Jerusalem. All are invited to hear her presentation. Light refreshments will follow. A love offering will also be received.
A WAY FORWARDThe final report of the Commission on a Way Forward was officially released in all four official languages of the General Conference: English, French, Portuguese, and Swahili. The report will be presented to the 2019 special General Conference. PRESS RELEASE ENGLISH REPORT LETTER
HOW TO SET PASTOR’S SALARYThe guidelines for 2019 were mailed. To see the information now, click HERE.
CLERGY HEALTH INSURANCE RATESThe Conference Board of Pensions approved the 2019 health insurance rate of $1,536 per month for full-time appointed clergy. This rate includes the UPMC Health Plan (including WorkPartners EAP), MetLife Dental, and EyeMed Vision benefits. The participant cost-sharing will remain the same as 2018. Churches are billed for the health insurance rate plus the participant cost-share tier selected by the member on their enrollment application. The participant cost-share is a pre-tax payroll deduction. See details at www.wpaumc.org/benefits.
PENSIONS AND GC2019Wespath has been caring for those who serve since 1908 – sixty years before this church was “United,” writes Barbara Boigegrain, general secretary of Wespath Benefits and Investments. “We intend to continue caring for those who serve for generations to come…” READ MORE
FOLLOW WESPATHThe denomination’s Wespath Benefits and Investments has a new Facebook page to provide greater access to information about its plans and programs. Check it out at www.facebook.com/Wespath.
RESOURCE UMCIf you don’t already, you may want to follow Resource UMC on Facebook (or #ResourceUMC on Twitter). Resource UMC connects churches and their leaders with inspirational and informational content, resources and products tailored to their needs. Visit www.facebook.com/ResourceUMC.
FREE MANUAL ORGANA Yamaha Electrotone two-manual organ is available for free at Spartansburg UMC. Please contact Rev. Cindy Gray (814-665-1855), Joe Wood (814-654-7273), or Cindy Hickernell (814-654-7381). Anyone who will pick it up can have it! Pictures are available.
COLLEGE MINISTRYIf you have students from your church attending college, you may be aware that it is the most likely time that people lose connection with the church. Grace UMC is located in the midst of IUP campus in Indiana, PA and we would like to help students remain connected to the church during their time at IUP. Please email the church at [email protected] with names and any contact information you have for your IUP students. We promise to reach out to them with love and support.
DISTRICT SUPERINTENDENT INSTALLATIONS Rev. Dr. Dennis Swineford (Erie-Meadville District): Sunday, September 30th, 3pm, Edinboro UMC (113 High Street, Edinboro, PA 16412) Rev. Sung Chung (Johnstown District): Sunday, October 7th, 3pm, Oakland UMC (1504 Bedford Street, Johnstown, PA 15092)
2018 ERIE-MEADVILLE DISTRICT UMW DATESDate Event LocationOctober 21st District Annual UMW’s Meeting Erie Asbury UMCOctober 27th Conference Annual UMW’s Meeting Butler District
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES
COCHRANTON UMC CHOIR DIRECTORCochranton UMC is seeking a choir director to lead an adult choir for the 11am traditional worship service. The choir director’s responsibilities include directing a mid-week evening rehearsal, working with the church organist to recruit musicians/singers for summer services when the choir does not sing, and directing the choir for special services such as Christmas Eve worship. To apply, send a letter detailing qualifications/experience to [email protected].
ERIE ASBURY UMC CHILDREN’S GROUP LEADERErie Asbury UMC is hiring a children’s group leader to work with children in grades pre-K to 5. The part-time position requires recruiting children, interacting with families, and planning/coordinating activities. If interested, please send resume and cover letter to [email protected].
JUMONVILLE SEEKS CEOOur camp and retreat facility in Fayette County seeks a president/CEO. The position is year-round, full-time and includes salary, on-site family housing, meals for the family while the dining hall is open, family hospitalization coverage, and pension after one full year of service. Get details at www.jumonville.org/president.
CLASSIFIEDS SECTION OF WPAUMC WEBSITEGO HERE
2018 REVISED COMMON LECTIONARYDiscipleship Ministries offers a two-page listing of Revised Common Lectionary (RCL) readings and liturgical colors for 2018 Sundays and special days. DOWNLOAD
NEW UMC HANDBOOKThe new United Methodist Church Handbook, which covers the next four years, is available, providing a detailed overview of the denomination’s beliefs, mission, structure, and history. The handbook is a free, go-to resource for anyone in search of information about the church and is helpful for leaders and new members. GET HANDBOOK
LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENTBoth lay and clergy will find information about events, ongoing programs, and continuing education opportunities, as well as scholarship applications, on our newly updated WEBPAGE. If you have an event that you’d like to see listed, contact Rev. Susan Moudry at [email protected].
GRANTS AND SCHOLARSHIPS
MISSION SUPPORT GRANTSApplications for 2019 Mission Support Grants are due Monday, October 15th. Find and download the form, along with the 2018 evaluation form, HERE.
POVERTY TEAM GRANTSThe Conference Poverty Team has a new form for local churches and agencies to apply for funding for projects and ministries with the poor. Get more information at www.wpaumc.org/povertyteam. APPLICATION FORM
SCHOLARSHIPSThere are a variety of scholarships at www.umc.org/resources/scholarships and at www.wpaumc.org/scholarshipforms.
SEMINARY FINANCIAL AIDApplications are available at www.wpaumc.org/BOOM.
KEYSTONE FEDERAL CREDIT UNIONChurches, be sure to check out your packet from Keystone Federal Credit Union and make sure you have updated your Corporate Resolution and Account Authorization Forms. Members, all United Methodist members can join and take advantage of these great services: fee-free checking, savings, picture deposit, mobile and online banking, REWARDS Visa credit card, back-to-school loans, and much more. Forms and information are available at www.keystoneumfcu.org. To raise awareness in your congregations, please use THIS. To become a member, please complete this FORM. If your church did not receive the packet, please contact Keystone Federal Credit Union at 724-252-3200 or [email protected].
www.euma-erie.org
FREE HEALTHCARE EVENT FOR WOMENWomen who are homeless or low-income can access numerous free services at S.H.E. Matters Women’s Health Event on Saturday, October 6th from 11am to 3pm at Saint Benedict Education Center (330 East 10th Street). The event, presented by EUMA’s Healthcare for the Homeless Partnership, Faith Community Nurses, Emmaus Ministries, and LECOM, will feature free health and dental screenings, immunizations, rapid HIV and STI testing, lunch, and prizes. Attached is a flyer on the event.
4 TH ANNUAL RUCK THE BAY Military personnel and civilians alike will join together on Sunday, October 14th to honor local fallen heroes and end veteran homelessness at the 4th annual Ruck the Bay. Participants complete the 10K course carrying a loaded ruck sack (filled with personal care donations for homeless veterans) and will observe memorials honoring local fallen heroes. Registration begins at 1pm and The Ruck starts at 2pm at Presque Isle State Park, Beach 11. Proceeds will benefit EUMA’s Liberty House transitional shelter for homeless veteran men. For more information or to register, visit www.ruckthebay.com. Churches, please share the attached bulletin insert and flyer to help us promote this event. Thank you!
http://allgodschildrenministries.org
2 ND ANNUAL MISSION ROUND-UP Saturday, September 29th, 6pm, Glenwood UMC (2931 Myrtle Street, Erie, PA 16508)All God’s Children Ministries is set to hold its 2nd annual Mission Round-Up. Come join us for an evening of fun, good food, and fellowship. Tickets are $15 each and are available from representatives of many of our local UM churches. The event will have a Western theme with barbeque pork, fried chicken, and all the trimmings. We are looking for additional table hosts, items for the silent and live auctions, and help with set up and clean up. Proceeds will support ongoing work in Guatemala as we form a team to travel there again in March of 2019. For more information, contact Rev. Debbie Hills at [email protected] or 440-812-4624.
FALL MISSION TRIPPlans are being made and a mission team is being formed to travel to Guatemala from Wednesday, November 21st to Monday, November 26th. Dates are set to allow youth and college students to participate over Thanksgiving break. If you are interested or want more information, please contact Rev. Debbie Hills at [email protected] or 440-812-4624.
SPRING MISSION TRIPA team is being formed to travel to Guatemala from March 8-15, 2019. We will be building a house; working in an orphanage; distributing wheelchairs, clothing, and food to some of the most desperately poor in our hemisphere. You will have an opportunity to visit and form relationships as we share the love of Christ in the beautiful mountains of Guatemala. For more information or to sign up, please email [email protected].
RAMPS OF HOPEhttp://allgodschildrenministries.org/programs/ramps-hope
CAN YOU HELP?Cooks are being sought to help us provide meals for construction teams around the district. We are building one to two ramps each week and are looking for those who are willing and able to take food out to our worksites to feed our teams and provide the opportunity for fellowship with those we serve by building residential ramps for our neighbors in need.
Respite Care http://allgodschildrenministries.org/programs/respitecare
Check out their websites for more information on upcoming events! Some camp/retreat center events can be found in the Conference Website Links and/or Conference Events sections.
http://www.olmstedmanor.org/
h ttp s :// j u m on v i l l e .or g /
https://www.campallegheny.org/
http://www.wesleywoods.com
CHER R Y RUN CAMP
http://cherryruncamp.org/youth/
UPCOMINGEVENTS
#SEEALLTHEPEOPLESeptember 28th & 29th Erie: Glenwood UMC (28th), Crossroads UMC (29th)
WORLD COMMUNION SUNDAYOctober 7th
LEGACY GIFTS WEBINAROctober 11th
UMFoundation.org
PRE-RETIREMENT SEMINAROctober 24th – 25th Pittsburgh Marriott North
View the Calendar
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SAVE THE DATE: 2019 ANNUAL CONFERENCE WILL BE THURSDAY, JUNE 6 TH TO SATURDAY, JUNE 8 TH !
BE A COACH!The East Ohio and WPA conferences are co-sponsoring a coaching cohort for clergy and lay people interested in earning International Coaching Federation (ICF) certification as a ministry coach. Certification requires attendance at three training modules (May, September, and November 2018) and practice of coaching skills under guidance of a certified coach. The trainings will be held at Boardman UMC near Youngstown, OH. For more information, visit www.empowercoaches.com or contact Amy Wagner at [email protected].
YOUTH 2019Discounted early-bird registration is underway for YOUTH 2019, the national gathering for United Methodist youth and their leaders next year in Kansas City that promises four days of discipleship, worship, Bible study, service opportunities, and life-changing fun. DETAILS AND REGISTER
LIVING FAITHFULLY: HUMAN SEXUALITY AND THE UNITED METHODIST CHURCHTuesdays (September 11th to October 2nd), 6:30pm to 8:30pm, Slippery Rock UMC (130 Franklin Street, Slippery Rock, PA 16057)In September and October, Slippery Rock UMC will be hosting a Bible study based on the book Living Faithfully: Human Sexuality and The United Methodist Church. Bishop Cynthia Moore-Koikoi and Pastor Keith Mcilwain will be co-teaching each session. Please prayerfully consider joining us for these unique learning opportunities. Everyone is invited to join! For more information, please contact the church at 724-794-4500 or [email protected].
HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTHHispanic Heritage Month is Saturday, September 15th to Monday, October 15th. New tools are available to help your church celebrate the contributions of Hispanic-Latino individuals in your community. LEARN MORE
DEAF AWARENESS WEEKDeaf Awareness Week is celebrated annually the last full week of September (Monday, September 24th to Sunday, September 30th). Resources include a guide to Deaf Awareness Sunday. Get more information and resources at www.umdeaf.org/index.html.
ENERGY STAR WORKSHOPSPA faith communities are hosting Energy Star workshops presented through a voluntary federal government program to help congregations save energy and water (and money). A session is scheduled for Tuesday, September 25th from 7pm to 9:30pm in the John Knox Room of Pittsburgh Theological Seminary and another for Wednesday, September 26th at 9am at Trinity Lutheran Church in Meadville. For the Meadville session, contact Cricket Hunter at [email protected].
EARTHKEEPERS TRAININGThe UMC Board of Global Ministries invites laity and clergy who want to develop or deepen environmental initiatives in their communities to apply for the EarthKeepers program. Two training sessions are offered: Thursday, September 27th to Sunday, September 30th in Detroit with a Thursday, September 6th application deadline and Thursday, November 1st to Sunday, November 4th in Salt Lake City with a Thursday, October 11th application deadline. There is no fee and Global Ministries will provide lodging and vegetarian meals. LEARN MORE
#SEEALLTHEPEOPLEMegachurch pastor and author Jorge Acevedo will be the keynote speaker for Where Compassion and Evangelism Meet, a day-long workshop offered by the Conference Evangelism Team in two locations in late September. GLENWOOD DETAILS CROSSROADS DETAILS BULLETIN INSERT
Friday, September 28th, Glenwood UMC (in Erie) Saturday, September 29th, Crossroads UMC (main campus in Oakdale)
AUTISM FAMILY RETREAT 2018Friday, September 28th to Sunday, September 30th, Jumonville (887 Jumonville Road, Hopwood, PA 15445)Led by the Rev. Ed Saxman. Registration deadline is Friday, September 21st. All ages are welcome. Get details and register at www.jumonville.org/event/autism.
OCTOBER IS DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AWARENESS MONTHThe General Board of Church and Society has created a study to help congregations reflect on what the Bible and The United Methodist Church have to say about domestic violence. LEARN MORE
FIXING CHURCH WORKSHOP
Tuesday, October 2nd to Thursday, October 4th, Olmsted Manor (17 East Main Street, Ludlow, PA 16333)Rev. Bill Kemp will lead this workshop focusing on using existing small groups and classes to promote positive change in the church. Pastors and church leaders will be equipped to make plans for their own church as well as lead a seven-week study for their congregation. DETAILS
RHYTHM OF A DREAMThursday, October 4th, 6:30pm, Sharon First UMC (237 West Silver Street, Sharon, PA 16146)This is a women’s event with Lisa Allen of Proverbs 31, a non-denominational Christian ministry that seeks to lead women into a personal relationship with Christ with Proverbs 31:10-31 as a guide. FLYER
WORLD COMMUNION SUNDAYWorld Communion Sunday will be celebrated on Sunday, October 7th. It is one of United Methodism’s six special Sundays with offerings. Offerings support national international students who rely on scholarships to pursue graduate-level education. LEARN MORE
MISSIONARY TO VISIT WPALourdes Ramirez, GBGM missionary from Nicaragua and Guatemala, will visit our conference from Sunday, October 7th to Monday, October 15th. She will share information about what the Methodist church is doing in Nicaragua and Guatemala, as well as discuss the refugee crisis in Costa Rica, where many Nicaraguans have fled to escape the violence at home. To meet with her or invite her to your church, contact either Richard Schall at [email protected] or Rich Mroczka at [email protected]. SEE MISSIONARY PROFILE
PLAN YOUR LEGACYThursday, October 11th, 10am to 11amRev. Ed Bailey of the United Methodist Foundation of Western PA will offer 10 Steps for Developing and Enhancing a Legacy Gift Plan in your church or agency during this webinar. Register on the foundation’s website at www.umfoundation.org.
BMCR GATHERINGThursday, October 11th to Friday, October 12th, St. Marks UMC (1436 Dorsey Road, Hanover, MD 21076)The Northeastern Jurisdiction Black Methodists of Church Renewal will hold their annual meeting this fall. The event will be hosted by the Baltimore-Washington Conference chapter of BMCR. LEARN MORE
2018 CLERGY COLLEGESunday, October 14th to Tuesday, October 16th, Jumonville (887 Jumonville Road, Hopwood, PA 15445)You are invited to the second annual clergy college at Jumonville, where you can earn a CEU and be taught by Rev. Jeff Greenway, the lead pastor at Reynoldsburg UMC in Ohio. The topic for our time together is still to be decided, but this event is sure to be a blessing to you and your ministry. The event will begin with registration at 4:30pm on Sunday and end with closing communion at 11am on Tuesday. The cost of this event is $175 for double occupancy and $250 for single occupancy staying either in Washington Lodge or The Inn. There is also a $100 student rate available and a $100 spouse rate available. The cost includes two nights and five meals beginning with Sunday dinner and ending with Tuesday breakfast. For more information or to register, please go to www.jumonville.org/event/clergy-college/.
BE A MISSION AMBASSADORApplications are being accepted until Monday, October 15th for the 2019-2020 Mission Ambassador program, which offers an opportunity to travel and learn about mission in a particular area of the world. Men and women, clergy or laity, are invited to apply. LEARN MORE APPLICATION
CHILD PROTECTION SEMINARMonday, October 15th, 6:30pm, Nixon UMC (334 Airport Road, Butler, PA 16002)Protecting children from child predators. There is no cost and childcare will be provided. FLYER
NEXT STEPS IN ERADICATING RACISMMonday, October 15th to Wednesday, October 17th, College Park Marriott Hotel and Conference CenterThe National Council of Churches will host its Christian Unity Gathering this fall. The gathering follows the April A.C.T. to End Racism Rally and will focus on identifying next steps to create a world without racism. LEARN MORE AND REGISTER
SHINE, JESUS, SHINEFriday, October 19th to Sunday, October 21st, Erie Trinity UMC (3952 Pine Avenue, Erie, PA 16504)Evangelists John and Christine Zimmerman will lead a renewal weekend this fall. Suzy and Byron Chertik will lead music and the Rev. Chris Kindle will speak at the closing session on Sunday morning. DETAILS
CLERGY PRE-RETIREMENT SEMINARWednesday, October 24th to Thursday, October 25th, Pittsburgh Marriott North (100 Cranberry Woods Drive, Cranberry Township, PA 16066)Registration is now open! The biennial clergy pre-retirement seminar will feature presentations from Wespath and EY advisors, as well as segments on Social Security, healthcare in retirement, financial planning, and more. Participants will be able to sign up for one-on-one personal pension projections with Wespath. A tentative schedule is on the Conference website. DETAILS AND REGISTER
FACING THE CLIMATE CRISISSaturday, October 27th, Mt. Lebanon in PittsburghPennsylvania Power and Light, an interfaith group responding to climate change, will host its 2018 conference in the fall. The conference, Facing the Climate Crisis: Called to Save our Sacred Home, takes place on the 70th anniversary of the day the Donora Smog began; it draws on wisdom rooted in southwestern PA and will highlight beautiful work being done now. DETAILS
THE VOYAGERS WORSHOP AND CONFERENCE
The Voyagers are a gathering of clergy and church leaders exploring of clergy and church leaders exploring Bowen Family Systems Theory and its application to congregations by Rabbi Edwin Friedman. A workshop and conference are scheduled for mid-November.
Wednesday, November 14th, 9am to 3pm, Westin Hotel (Buffalo, NY): Bowen Theory Introduction and Applicationo This one-day seminar will introduce participants to Bowen Family Systems Theory and its application to working with families,
congregations, and other institutions in the community. Family of origin work will be presented. Cost is $60 per person ($35 for students).
Thursday, November 15th, 9am to 4pm, Christ the King Seminary (East Aurora, NY): Bowen Theory’s Secrets: The Hidden Life of Familieso Dr. Michael Kerr, the director of the Bowen Theory Academy and the former director of the Bowen Center in Washington, D.C., will
present a one-day conference focusing on the insights of his new book. Dr. Kerr will describe family functioning from a Bowen theory perspective and distinguish it from the traditional psychological approach that focuses on problems within the individual person. Cost is $95 per person ($65 for students) or $125 per person for both days ($80 for students), which includes lunch.
For more information and early bird registration, contact Rev. Robert Spilman, CPE Supervisor, Retired, ACPE (363 Darwin Drive, Amherst, NY 14226 or [email protected] or 716-479-7933). DETAILS
JOIN MESSIAH SING-ALONG CHOIRYou don’t have to be a member of Calvary UMC in Pittsburgh to sing in the choir for the popular annual sing-along performance of Handel’s Messiah. There will be two performances this year – Saturday, December 1st at 4pm and Sunday, December 9th at 4pm. Rehearsals will be Tuesday evenings from 7:30pm to 9pm beginning Tuesday, October 2nd. If you’re interested, contact [email protected].
ORIENTATION TO MINISTRYThe next orientation has been scheduled for Saturday, January 5, 2019 at Charter Oak UMC. Registration will open online soon. Contact the Rev. Janet Lord at [email protected].
SPARK 2019Friday, January 11, 2019 to Sunday, January 13, 2019, Sheraton at Station Square (300 West Station Square Drive, Pittsburgh, PA 15219)Registration is now open for this retreat for youth in grades 6 through 12 and their leaders! Early-bird registration runs until Friday, November 2nd. Check it out at www.wpaumc.org/spark.
CONFIRMATION TOURS 2019Dates and locations have been set for Commit 2019 (aka the confirmation tours). Registration will open later this year.
Friday, March 8th, Wesley Woods Friday, March 15th, Jumonville Friday, March 22nd, Camp Allegheny Friday, March 29th and Saturday, March 30th, Conference Center
Don’t forget! You can now check a running list of WPA VIM trip opportunities online anytime at www.wpaumc.org/opportunities. Also, opportunities to give/help can be found at UMCOR.
DISASTER RESPONSEThe invitation to respond to either North or South Carolina has not been issued! Do not respond in any way without an invitation or a designated place to go by a local agency, church, or group. If you do, you are on your own and not acting in accordance with your ERT training or within the understanding of UMCOR or our Conference Disaster Response Ministries protocol. Please do not begin the collection of any type of food, water, clothing, supplies, etc. until a specific request has been made. Please allow the local community to manage their disaster response. When help of any kind is needed, we will let you know.
WPAUMC VOLUNTEERS IN MISSIONUnited Methodists voluntarily serving people outside the church – local, regionally, nationally, or internationally.
What teams can I join? www.wpaumc.org/opportunitiesHow do I learn about leading a team? www.wpaumc.org/VIMtrainingOnce we have a team planned, what do we do?
Register your team at www.wpaumc.org/registerVIMteamsGet VIM insurance at www.umvimnej.org
Once our team returns, what do I do? www.wpaumc.org/missionreportWhere can I find local church resources?
www.wpaumc.org/localchurchmissionsHow do I get involved in Disaster Response?
Take UMCOR training at www.wpaumc.org/disasterresponseMake sure your local church has a local disaster planVolunteer at Eastbrook Mission Barn or one of its satellites
What if there is a disaster in my church’s community?Local pastor reports damage to church and with their community to their District SuperintendentLocal pastor reports damage to church and with their community to Conference Disaster Response Coordinator, Rev. Calvin Cook at 814-442-5899
MISSIONSHIELD VIM INSURANCE OFFEREDAs health care laws change and deductibles grow, it is important to have coverage for volunteer teams serving in the U.S. as well as abroad. This Northeastern Jurisdiction UMVIM board has worked with Seven Corners to make policies available for all VIM teams. Get forms and details at www.umvimnej.org/mission-insurance.
2018 CONFERENCE VIM TEAMSCHECK OUT THESE WAYS TO SERVE IN WESTERN PA
UM A.R.M.Y – www.ne.umarmy.orgYour church can be a youth work camp as youth and chaperones partner with UM A.R.M.Y to love your neighbors.
EASTBROOK MISSION BARN – www.wpaumc.org/missionbarn
UPDATESSee what’s happening at the Eastbrook Mission Barn in their BLOG.
URGENT NEED FOR CLEANING BUCKETSIn Western PA last week, an estimated 1,500 cleaning (flood) buckets were distributed by Eastbrook Mission Barn in eight southwestern and central PA counties. Since then, Hurricane Florence made landfall and moved through the Carolinas, where many rivers were yet to crest today. Get an update on disaster response needs and how you can help HERE.
UMCOR KIT INGREDIENTS CHANGESome of the ingredients in UMCOR kits have changed. In hygiene kits, the number of band aids has increased to ten. In cleaning buckets, instead of including sponges, donors are asked to put in $1.50 for purchase of foam sponges. NEW RECIPES
DONATE TO UMCORDonations to the United Methodist Committee on Relief are often the best way to help those affected by flooding and other natural disasters. One hundred percent of your donations go to those in need. Contribute through your local church or at www.UMCOR.org.
