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Christ United Methodist ChUrChchristumcmobile.com | 251.342.0462

noveMber/deCeMber 2014

worship serviCes

Can’t make it to church? watch services online at

christumcmobile.com/sermons

what Am i truly thankful for?..........frontA note from pastor Jeff .........................2Christmas events & services.................3 Adult opportunities................................4 Youth Ministry.........................................5 Children’s Ministry.................................6 recreation Ministry................................7 various Ministries..................................8sunday school spotlight........................92014 Lay Leadership Committee..........10 various Ministries................................11new Members......................................12pastoral Care........................................13weekly events/Library.........................14Calendar...........................................15Christmas Concert/party........back cover

in this issUeI thought it would be a good Thanksgiving discipline for me to take the time to sit down, reflect and write down all the things for which I am thankful. Food, clothing and my home quickly made the list. The air I breathe, the fact that I woke up on this side of the grass, and of course, my job were all on the list. I am thankful for my family, clean drinking water, cool coworkers and the freedom to worship.

Then I began to wonder: Am I truly thankful for those things? When I woke up this morning and took a deep breath, was I filled with awe and wonder, saying, “Thank you God, I am not dead!” Or did I drag

myself to the coffee pot, not giving a second thought to the dawning of a new day? Am I thankful for my job or do I just take it for granted? Am I thankful for the food I eat or is mealtime prayer simply a developed habit?

I am normally thankful for things I receive that are out of the ordinary- small gifts, completely undeserved or incredibly large. Everyday things simply fall into the categories of the expected, the ordinary and often unseen. I expect to eat three meals today. I expect the water I drink will be clean and healthy. And I expect to wake up alive. I have found that expectations quickly lead to a feeling of entitlement which destroys gratitude and leads to destruction.

Then I read a quote from Andy Stanley, “Unexpressed gratitude is seen as ingratitude.” I wondered what would happen if I started to take the time to authentically express my gratitude. If I paused just a moment before I ate to say thanks. When I wake in the morning, before crawling out of bed, what if I would just take a moment to drink in the new day and say thanks. How would my life be different if I authentically, verbally thanked those people who bless me every day?

1 Thessalonians 5:18, Paul encourages us to “Be thankful in all circumstances.” What am I thankful for - really? I encourage you to take time to write down those things for which you are truly thankful. Take time to be actively thankful for those things which we often take for granted. And then when appropriate, go to that person and say, “Thanks.”

As for me, I am thankful for the opportunity to write this devotion, so that I would realize how much I have to be thankful for in the ordinary things of life.

In Christ,

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Sunday, November 16th is our Celebration Sunday as we announce the results of our FORWARD INITIATIVE. Please make it a priority to be present in worship for this special day!

Why do we spend so much time and energy on a stewardship effort such as this? Many reasons!

† Out of gratitude for God’s grace and provision in each of our lives!

† Because love must be expressed in our actions, not merely in our words!

† Because the ministries of Christ UMC are positively impacting our community!

I’m grateful to be joined with each of you in our great mission for Christ and His Kingdom!

The last Sunday of November ushers in the Advent season! “Advent” means “coming” and we enter a season of expectation and anticipation for the coming of Christ into our world. Getting ready for Christmas is a whole lot different than getting ready for Jesus. Repentance, spiritual focus, loving God and loving neighbor—these are the things we do to make sure we’re ready for the coming of Christ. Getting ready for Christmas often leads us away from Jesus, not toward Him. Presents, parties, stretching the budget, traffic, etc.—these things bring us more stress than peace and joy. Let’s make sure we’re getting ready for Jesus more than we’re getting ready for Christmas!

P.S.— Be sure to pick up your copy of our new CUMC Advent Devotional available Sunday, November 23. It will be a great tool for your quiet time during this Holiday season.

In Christ, Jeff

For unto us a Child is born, Unto us a son is given; And the government will be upon his shoulder. And his name will be called wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, everlasting Father,

prince of peace. isaiah 9:6

Corner propertyAt the called Church Conference held on November 10, the body voted by a strong margin to proceed with the sale of the property to CVS.

When the sale comes to completion, we will reduce our present indebtedness by two million. The remainder of the proceeds from the sale (approximately $200,000) will be used for repairs and maintenance on existing buildings.

Thank you to all who attended and voted. There was a great sense of God’s Spirit and unity present.

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Were You There on That Christmas Night?Sunday, December 7 | During the 10:40 a.m. Sanctuary | Join us for our annual Christmas concert featuring Christ UMC Sanctuary Choir, Handbell Choir, Orchestra and narration.

The Light Before Christmas: A Celebration Of The Advent Wreath And It’s Meanings | Sunday, December 7 | 2:00 p.m.Sanctuary | Join us for the Christmas concert presented by Christ UMC’s Youth Singers and Children’s Choirs with narration.

Children’s Birthday Party for Jesus | Sunday, December 7 2:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. | Courtyard | Join the Children’s Ministry for the children’s choir concert in the Sanctuary from 2:00 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. followed by an afternoon of fun and merriment in the Courtyard as we celebrate Jesus’ birthday with cake, games and inflatables.

Youth Rock Star Christmas Party | Sunday, December 7 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. | Youth Area Dress up as your favorite rock star and celebrate with us. There will be major prizes for the best costumes, games, food, karaoke and much more. Register at christumcyouth.com/christmasparty. Cost: $5.

50+ Ministry Annual Christmas Celebration – A Southern Christmas | Wednesday, December 10 | 5:00 p.m. Hospitality Room | Enjoy dinner catered by Kraver’s Seafood and entertainment by Steve Ellisor. Register by contacting Kim Pratt at 251.706.3331 by December 3 at 12:00 p.m. Bring a small ornament in a gift bag (under $5) which will be given to a needy family to help brighten their Christmas. Only one ornament per couple. Cost: $12.

Were You There on That Christmas Night?Friday, December 12 | 7:00 p.m. | SanctuaryJoin us for our annual Christmas concert featuring Christ UMC Sanctuary Choir, Handbell Choir, Orchestra and Narration.

Beauty from Ashes: A Blue Christmas ServiceSunday, December 14 | 5:00 p.m. | Christ Center GymAre you missing your loved one or hurting this Christmas? We will remember those who have passed, pray for those far away and seek God’s healing. Christmas Candlelight CommunionSunday, December 21 | 5:00 p.m. | Christ Center GymJoin us for a traditional Christmas Communion service by candlelight.

Family Christmas Eve Communion ServiceWednesday, December 24 | 4:00 p.m. | SanctuaryA child-friendly Christmas Eve service with puppets and an interactive telling of the Christmas story.

Christmas Eve Communion ServicesWednesday, December 24 | 6:00 p.m. & 11:00 p.m.Sanctuary | Join us for music, scripture readings and Holy Communion as we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ.

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sunday Morning Advent studies

wednesday evening Class

n not a silent night by Adam hamilton | Imagine Jesus from Mary’s point of view – proud of her son, in awe of his gifts and mission, guided by love for him as a person and so much more. Then imagine Mary at the foot of the cross thinking back to the life, ministry and ultimately the death of her son. This is the story of Not a Silent Night. begins sunday, november 16 | 8:00 a.m. | Room A-207 – For couples with children of all agesbegins sunday, november 23 | 9:15 a.m. | Room A-201 – For all adults

n Under wraps by Jessica LaGrone, Andy nixon, rob renfroe & ed robb | Learn four basic Old Testament characteristics of God revealed in Jesus. begins november 16 | 9:15 a.m. | Room D-202 | For young married couplesbegins november 30 | 9:15 a.m. | Room A-204 | For 40+ adults

begins november 23n A different Kind of Christmas by Mike slaughter | 9:15 a.m. Room A-209 | Acquire a vision of living and giving like Jesus, beginning with the Christmas season and continuing through the year. For 50+ adults.

begins sunday, november 23 n Advent Conspiracy by rick McKinley, Chris seay & Greg holder 9:15 a.m. | room d-203 | For married couples with children | Take a stand with other Christians and join the groundswell of Christ-followers who are choosing to make Christmas what it should be—a joyous celebration of the birth of Christ and not a retail circus.

begins sunday, november 30 n investigating Christmas by Jeremy steele | 10:40 a.m. room A-209 | This is a different kind of Christmas Study. During Advent, Jeremy Steele will teach from his book Investigating Christmas and seek to answer some interesting questions: What does the Bible really say about angels? Can Jesus and Santa be on the same team? Is Christmas rooted in a pagan holiday? How and when did the whole manger situation go down? A class for all adults. Please order books no later than November 21 by contacting Sonya Carson at sonya@christumcmobile.com or 251.706.3365. Cost of book is $10 and an E-book is also available on Amazon for $6.99.

begins January 14n bALAnCed bY AndY stAnLeY | 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. | room A-204 | Led by Sandra Dunaway, a professional budget counselor | Are many of the arguments in your home about money? Can you be unbalanced financially and still be a devoted follower of Christ? What does it even mean to be financially balanced? In this 6-part study, you’ll be challenged to examine what you really believe about finances and faith:

n What does the Bible say about money?n Can you survive without debt?

n Are you content with what you have?n Are you giving God your leftovers?

This study is filled with insightful perspectives and practical exercises to build a biblical foundation for your finances. To register, contact Sonya Carson at sonya@christumcmobile.com or 251.706.3365. The workbook with DVD will be available at the first meeting, with prior registration, for a cost of $20.

begins sunday January 4 n bible study of deuteronomy9:15 a.m. | Room E-241n old testament bible study9:15 a.m. | Parlor

begins tuesday, January 6 n tuesday Morning Ladies bible studyThe Power of God’s Names by Tony EvansLed by Brenda Ragland | 9:30 a.m. | Rm A-206Contact Sonya Carson at 251.706.3365 to register or order your book.

begins wednesday, January 7n retUrninG: pAstor bobbY’s wednesday night bible study 6:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. | Room A-209

Coming in January

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There is something distinctive about the holiday season. As we make all of the family preparations for Thanksgiving and Christmas, sometimes the last seasonal event we think about is Advent. For Christians, Advent is meant to be one of the most important seasons of the calendar year and it gives us a unique expectancy for Christmas that most people in our culture don’t have the opportunity to feel. There is much more to say about the season of Advent, but I want to simply encourage you (just as we will encourage your students), to let the season take on new meaning in your life this year and involve yourself in all of the ways our church is celebrating together.

Our students and leaders are taking a breath after a successful Silent Auction event before our high-energy Winter Retreat planning begins. Now is a great time to encourage your students to deepen their involvement in our youth ministry. Great things are happening in our ministry because of God’s providence and your generous support. Thank you for giving us a chance to help students in their journey with Jesus.

n 5-6 | silence & solitude | For 6th – 12th grade | We will get away and spend time learning about ancient prayer and listening practices. We will experience Centering Prayer, Lectio Divina, Sacred Hours and Ignatian Examen. No lights, no worship band, no projectors. Just you, your friends, your Bible, nature and the Holy Spirit. Visit christumcyouth.com/silence for more information or to register.

n 7 | A rock star Christmas party! | 5:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. | Cost: $5Dress up as your favorite rock star (keep it modest and clean) and come party with us. There will be major prizes for the best costumes. Join us for games, food, karaoke and much more! Cafe dinner: $5. Register at christumcyouth.com/christmasparty.

n 13 | hands & Feet Youth Local Missions with salvation Army Angel tree | 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. | We will have the opportunity to assist the Salvation Army by sorting toys for the Angel Tree program. This is a great opportunity to serve in a huge community-wide ministry to people in need. Please wear closed-toe shoes! Bring money for lunch.

Coming in Januaryn 16-18 | the “with” winter retreat | Cost: $130 | This will be a great time to get away from your everyday routine while drawing closer to God and your friends. There will be awesome worship, a great speaker, small groups, zip-lining, lots of games and much more. Space is limited! Register at winterretreat2015.com. Cost $130.

Friday, January 16 - sunday, January 18 the “with” winter retreat

register today winterretreat2015.com

weekly Activitiesn sUndAY MorninGsBreakfast | 8:00 a.m.9:16 Worship | Youth Area 9:16 a.m. – 10:15 a.m.Bible Time | Youth Lounge 10:40 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

n sUndAY niGhtsMS | Worship | 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. HS | Worship | 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.Dinner: 5:30 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. | Cost $4

n wednesdAY hAnGoUt & bibLe stUdYRe:Fuel | Youth Area | Dinner $4Come eat and hang out | 5:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. Bible Study | 6:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.

visit christumcyouth.com for updates and details on all activities.

YoUth MinistrY stAFF• tyler vittetoe, high school Youth Minister | email - tyler@christumcmobile.com• bill McLarty, Middle school Youth Minister | email - mclarty.bill@gmail.com

stAY ConneCted with Us Check in with us at

Get text messages at christumcyouth.com/text next GenerAtion newsLetter

Visit christumcyouth.com for all our events

december events

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tween winter retreat

Celebrate! Jesus’ birth is something to be excited about with your children, so plan with a purpose. When you decorate the house this year, try to create the atmosphere where your kids are ready to celebrate. Growing up, our Christmas trees were always the boring “department store” type trees. Everything matched and you wouldn’t dare touch the tree. If you put a present under the tree, the wrapping paper better match the tree too. One year, I can recall having a tree in the dining room, living room and breakfast room! Each one matched the room and was beautiful to look at but not very fun for a child. We told Mom the house looked like a Christmas catalog and asked if we could start circling things in the house that we wanted for Christmas? I believe she mumbled something about having boys and walked off.

The celebration is important, but your child’s ability to connect with Jesus is essential. Build positive memories this Christmas about the hope and joy of having a relationship with Jesus. Focusing on a celebration for Jesus will give all kids hope and set all kids’ eyes on God’s message for Christmas.

december

n 3 | preschool Fun day | Fellowship hall | 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Come and kick off the Christmas season with a cookie decorating party. We will have all of the cookies and decorating supplies. Just bring your imagination! Preregister by Monday, December 1 by emailing Ashley Walker at ashley@christumcmobile.com.

n 7 | Children’s Choir Concert & birthday party for Jesus 2:00 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. | sanctuary & Courtyard | Join the Children’s Ministry for the children’s choir concert in the Sanctuary from 2:00 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. followed by an afternoon of fun and merriment in the Courtyard as we celebrate Jesus’ birthday with cake, games and inflatables.

n 24 | Family Christmas eve service | wednesday, december 244:00 p.m. | sanctuary | Celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ at our Family Christmas Eve Communion Service. This special service is designed for families with small children.

n tween winter retreat at Camp whispering pinesFriday, January 2 - sunday, January 4 | 3rd - 5th GradeCost: $125 | Registration is now open! Get ready for a weekend filled with awesome food, great worship and out-of-this world fellowship and fun as we learn about the gospel. Playing paint-ball it is an additional $25. Register at cumcchildren.com/winterretreat or pick up a registration form at the Next Generation booth in the Christ Center.

Congratulations toChris and Courtney Ward on the birth of their son Porter Ellis Ward

Frank and Brandi Hall on the birth of their daughter Sarah Ames

Will and Joni Parker on the birth of their daughter Caroline Reese

weekly programs - visit cumcchildren.com for more details.

ChiLdren’s MinistrY stAFF• Ashley walker, early Childhood Minister - ashley@christumcmobile.com• Jon seale, elementary Minister - jon@christumcmobile.com• Christie Ford, Kidz Crossing director - christie@christumcmobile.com

stAY ConneCted with UsCUMChildren CUMCKidz

next GenerAtion newsLetter Sign up for our e-news via cumcchildren.com

8:00 a.m. 3K – 4K | E-146 | Sunday School5K – 5th | E-248 | Sunday School

9:15 a.m.3K – 4K | Bldg E | Sunday School5K – 2nd | Bldg F | Elementary Worship3rd – 5th | Bldg E | Sunday School

10:40 a.m.3K – 4K | Bldg F | Preschool Worship5K – 2nd | Bldg E | Sunday School3rd – 5th | CCAA | Tween Worship

n sunday Mornings | All Sunday School classes are located in Building E. Visit the Next Generation booth for location of classes.

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visit Us here For Up-to-dAte inForMAtion /cumc.recreationministry

Christ Center hoUrs: Monday - Friday: 6:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m. • Saturday: 8:00 a.m.- 6:00 p.m.For additional recreation information, call 251.706.3326 or visit: christumcsports.com

to reGister: Visit christumcsports.com or come by, fill out a form and pay at the Recreation Desk.

n Dec. 23 - 27 | Recreation Ministry CLosed for the Christmas holidays

n Dec. 22 - Jan. 2 | No Basketball practices or games

n Dec. 31 | Recreation Ministry CLosed at 5:00 p.m.

n Jan. 1 | Recreation Ministry CLosed

n Jan. 5 | Basketball practices & games resume

n 678 volleyball For girls 6th, 7th & 8th graders. Practices and games are once a week. Register from November 24 - January 23, 2015. Fee is $70. Evaluations are January, 23. Practices and games begin in February. Season ends in March. Space is limited.

n tball, baseball & softball Co-ed Team: Ages K4-*6th grade (up to 6th grade for girls, 4th grade for boys). Must be age 4 by 3/1/15. Registration begins in mid-December. Evals are February. Practices begin in late February. Season ends in May. Fee is $75.

Upcoming registrations important dates

CoMMit to whAt is best And not whAt is JUst Good By Rick Warren

Many of us believe we can multi-task without limits. However our brain isn’t a computer; it can’t run different programs simultaneously. When we think we are multi-tasking, we are actually switching rapidly between tasks. Our attention is divided. That’s why people crash their cars when they try to text and drive.

And it’s why people crash in their journey to get healthy. Getting healthy the right way requires a relentless focus on God and his plan for healthy living. You must focus on what’s most important and not allow yourself to get distracted by the trivial. If Satan can’t get you to do wrong, he’ll simply wear you out with a lot of good things. He’ll get you over-committed to the good but not the best. The Bible says, “Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.” (Colossians 3:2 NIV) As you make the commitment to get healthy, lay aside what doesn’t matter so you can focus on Jesus and his plan for your body. Visit the website for more details about healthy living, diet and exercise at www.danielplan.com.

Set your minds on things above, not on

earthly things. Colossians 3:2 NIV

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February 28, 2015WOMEN’S CONFERENCE

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Registration begins December 7 // christumcmobile.com/wc2015

Kasey Van NormanSpeaker

Heather MessickWorship Leader

This is the sequel to the ever popular UMW Bake Sale. Stock your freezer with homemade soup for those chilly winter months or for unexpected guests over the holidays.

Enjoy gumbo, vegetable soup, chicken noodle, chicken stew and more. All proceeds support missions.

9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

do YoU enJoY bAKinG? If so, we need people interested in baking a dessert

once a month to be used as part of the meal on Thursday nights. If interested, please contact Donna

Alexander at 251.342.0462 ext. 225.

for Celebrate recovery

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Sunday school classes do more than meet for an hour on Sunday morning. Family Circus is a great example of what it means to be part of a small group and experience a true

community of faith. This class is comprised of married couples with children of all ages who enjoy socializing together on a regular basis but they also have a true heart for ministry and mission.

For this year’s Christmas project, they decided to purchase 75 pairs of warm, cozy pajamas for the ladies at McKemie Place. McKemie Place is a shelter for homeless women in Mobile supported by the United Methodist Church. On a recent Sunday, the class was joined by their children as they enjoyed breakfast and gift wrapped over 80 pairs of pajamas. Soon they will be taken to McKemie Place and each resident will be given a pair to enjoy over the cold winter months. Want to know more about Family Circus Sunday School class? Contact Marcia Jacobs at marciaj@christumcmobile.com.

tUesdAYs6:30 p.m.

Supper/meeting

LoCAtionHome of Jim & Amy Mitchell

6724 Candlelight Court Lamplighter Woods Subdivision

For More inForMAtion or direCtions ContACt JiM & AMY MitCheLL At speAKisAY@AoL.CoM or 251.767.1325

WHAT IS GAP? It’s a casual Bible study group for unmarried graduates and professional men and women, ages 23 - 35. The focus is on learning from the Bible, as well as how to grow in our relationship with God and His people.

ContACt KerrY Cohen At 251.342.0462 ext. 280 or e-MAiL KerrY@ChristUMCMobiLe.CoM

n Guides - Sundays a.m. in the Recreation area n Info Desk volunteers - Sundays a.m. in the Christ Center and Sanctuary area n Phone volunteers in the Christ Center Sundays a.m.

n Scribe volunteers - once per month on Tuesday mornings to write welcome letters to our first-time visitorsn Golf Cart Drivers - Sundays

Just 15-25 MinUtes of your time onCe per Month on A sUndAY can make sUCh A diFFerenCe to A visitor.

Family Circus

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Nominating Committee Finance Committee Board of TrusteesEarle King Sandra Dunaway, Chair Bruce McCrory, Chair

Carol Amick Phil Benson, Treasurer Craig JacobsNicolette Duke Bruce McCrory, Trustee Chair Rosemary Hoodless

Michelle Bentley Spencer Adams, Admin. Board Chair Philip HayesKelly Harrell Bob Rist, Admin. Board Vice Chair Chris Gewin

Lisa Beaverstock Randy Eckhoff, Lay Leader Michael SchultzBrenda Davis Kent Krause, Past Finance Chair Clay DoyleAmy Mitchell Marshall Tew, Lay Delegate/Finance Dana Helton

Ed Sells Dan Dewrell, Stewardship Chair Jerry WilsonScott Freeman Charles Scearce, Past Chair

Sue HarbinStaff Parish Relations Committee Polly Pate Other Officers

Sharron Eckhoff, Chair Gail Buurma Bill Woods, Lay DelegateMelissa Dravis Ron Davis Pat Woods, Lay DelegateScott Harper Barbara Roy Jim Hinton, Lay DelegateSusan McRae Dianne Irby, Lay DelegateAlan Colvin Marshall Tew, Lay Delegate/Finance

Greg Forman Lee Hall, Alternate Lay DelegateCraig Mathews Lori Roach, Alternate Lay Delegate

Jim Mitchell Susan McRae, Alternate Lay Delegate/SPRLisa Rogers Earle King, Alternate Lay Delegate

Brian Genard, Past Chair Jean King, Alternate Lay DelegateRick Drews, Church Historian

Angie Coxe, Recording Secretary, Admin. Bd.Joyce Genz, Pres., United Methodist Women

Spencer Adams (Chair) Bob Rist (Vice Chair)2015 2016 2017

Angie Coxe Greg Bolin Allen ChapmanBill Stillings Derick Boutwell Amy DoyleBill Woods Frank Brown Boyd BradleyEarle King Jennifer Denson David Forbes

Florencia Holt Jerry Lathan Dennis DixGuy Smith Russell Osborne Gerald Grovenstein

John Bruton Frank Taylor Jay DennisJohn Reid Heath Parker Jeff Zoghby

Logan Elliott Paul Shorrosh Karen GenardLynne Hardy Jimmy Scarborough Karl WhitingMacy Schultz Daphne Smith Leah LadnerMike Houston Mary Kegley Nell Powell

Pat Woods Lloyd Roebuck Ricky KnowlesRob Mattingly Jeff McCurley Steve Statkewicz

Marshall Tew Ed SellsPamela Kuhn Frankie Bodie

CHRIST UNITED METHODIST CHURCHAPPOINTED LEADERS FOR 2015

Administrative Board

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DivorceCare Find help and healing for the hurt of separation and divorce.

DivorceCare is a friendly, caring group of people who will walk alongside you through one of life’s most difficult experiences.

Don’t go through separation or divorce alone.

wednesdays, 6:30 p.m.Christ Center | rm. C221

Child care available for infants - 5th grade.For more information, contact Dawn Bratcher at dawn@christumcmobile.com or 251.706.3328.

Celebrating Candles and Carols

Sunday, December 7 | 2:00 p.m. | Sanctuary Presented by Christ UMC Youth Singers and Children Choir

Christ United Methodist Church

ChristmasThe Light Before

Prepare your marriage for a lifetime as you plan for your wedding day. Weekly sessions are

Jan. 13, 20, 27 and Feb. 3 | 6:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.

to register or for more information:Contact Brenda Davis at 251.422.6210 or

email brendadavis3@gmail.com.

pLAnninG to MArrY in 2015?

Get started in the right direction with Starting Point.Learn about the Christian faith, the mission of our church and church membership. You will also learn how to get connected

into the life of Christ UMC!

sUndAY, JAnUArY 25 4:00 p.M. - 6:00 p.M. | hospitALitY rooM

For More inForMAtion or to reGister: Contact Kerry Cohen at ext. 280 or register at

christumcmobile.com/startingpoint

Are YoU new to Christ UMC?

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Christine WillisJoined Sunday, September 21, 2014

Lee & Ashley McKeithan and Mary Joined Sunday, November 9, 2014

Alma and Dale CurtisJoined Sunday, November 9, 2014

Ron BoyerJoined Sunday, November 2, 2014

Robin and Alan CanfieldJoined Sunday, November 9, 2014

Denise and Scott McIrvinJoined Sunday, October 26, 2014

sail on the dreAM for a dreAM vACAtion

Set sail with Pastor Bobby and Nancy Williams on

May 17, 2015 from New Orleans to Honduras, Belize,

and Cozumel for a 7-day cruise. Payments can be made monthly.

For additional information or booking your cruise, come by the cruise table in the Sanctuary Gathering Area or

call Kathryn Twilley at 251.443.7501 or 251.404.4414 or Bobby Williams at 251.342.0464.

Lifegate would like to thank each of

you for your response for our

Thanksgiving bags and turkey

donations. As a congregation,

you helped us feed many families

a complete Thanksgiving meal. We

appreciate your continued support

and prayers as we reach out to the

hurting and needy.

Marie CanfieldJoined Sunday, November 9, 2014

Thomas HenleyJoined Sunday, November 9, 2014

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Kim Volk and family in the death of her father Evert Van Vellen

Moody Connell and family in the death of his mother Elizabeth Ramsey

Angie & Mike Henry and family in the death of their brother-in-law Robert Johnson

Michael Flowers & Courtney Dykes and families in the death of their mother Bettye Flowers

Brenda Chisholm and family in the death of her sister Bettye Flowers

Jason & Jeff Chisholm and families in the death of their aunt Bettye Flowers

Brenda Parker and family in the death of her son-in-law Steve Ross

Ellen Castleberry and family in the death of her brother Henry Graves

Terry Terranova and family in the death of his father John Terranova

Dana Seale and family in the death of her father Ersell Bell, Jr.

Jeff McGill and family in the death of his wife Jenny McGill

Karen & Micki McGill and family in the death of their daughter-in-law Jenny McGill

Chip Jordan and family in the death of his brother Ricky Weatherby

Melinda Williams and family in the death of her mother Dorothy Helmeczi

Mike Roy and family in the death of his brother Mark Roy

Mike DeAngelis and family in the death of his father Ron Clement

Robert Tompkins and family in the death of his daughter Renee Tompkins-Patterson

Jim Spires, Sr., and family in the death of his wife Bernice Spires

Jim Spires, Jr., and family in the death of his mother Bernice Spires

Doni Bobel and family in the death of her sister Sheryl Stowers

Roy Barnett and family in the death of his brother George Barnett

Carla Krause and family in the death of her sister Clarice Winfrey

The STephen miniSTry can helpDid you ever want to talk to someone but felt no one really wanted to listen? Stephen Ministers

are trained to listen well. They will listen to you and respond lovingly and non-judgmentally. They are not there to tell you what you should or should not do. If you need

someone who will really listen to you as you work through a problem, you may want to consider a Stephen Minister.

For more information contact Donna Alexander at donna@christumcmobile.com or 251.342.0462, ext. 225 for more information.

For more information, contact Donna Alexander at donna@christumcmobile.com or ext. 225 or visit christumcmobile.com/celebraterecovery.

A Christ-centered 12 step program for life’s hurts, hang-ups and habits. Recovery is a journey you don’t have to travel alone.

every thursday6:30 p.m. building F

wednesday, december 108:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.Across from Recreation Desk

provided by susie ollhoftChrist UMC health Care Ministry

Free bLood pressUre CheCKs

MondAY, deCeMber 76:30 p.M. - 7:30 p.M. | pArLor

Christ UMC Christian Cancer Support meets every 2nd Monday of the month.Please join us for cancer education, faithful testimony, information/referral and prayer.

Contact Teresa Atkins at tratkins1@mchsi.com or 251.653.0364 for more information. For child care, contact Kim Pratt at kim@christumcmobile.com or 251.706.3331

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sUndAYs8:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Coffee & Donuts8:00 a.m. Sanctuary Worship Service Sunday School - All Ages9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Library open9:15 a.m. Sanctuary Worship Service NewSong Worship Service Early Elementary Worship Preschool Sunday School 9:16 Youth Worship Adult Connection College Connection10:20 a.m. Youth Singers 10:40 a.m. Sanctuary Worship Service NewSong Worship Service Adult Sunday School Tween Worship Early Elementary Sunday School11:00 a.m. Youth Ringers 5:00 p.m. Evening Worship Service Youth Worship6:00 p.m. College Group MondAY8:00 a.m. Lifegate

tUesdAY9:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. Library open6:30 p.m. GAP (off campus)

wednesdAY8:00 a.m. Lifegate9:30 a.m. Mom’s Bible Study5:30 p.m. Youth Re:Fuel6:15 p.m. Stephen Ministry6:30 p.m. Singles Bible Study Youth Bible Study Sanctuary Choir Single Mom’s Class DivorceCare thUrsdAY9:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. Library open6:30 p.m. Celebrate Recovery

MondAY - FridAY8:45 a.m. - 12:45 p.m. Preschool9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Mom’s Day Out

JeFF’s perCeptions | 7:40 A.M.wKsJ 94.9 FM | wrKh 96.1 FM | wtKx 101.5 FM

or onLine At

christumcmobile.com/jeffsperceptions

LoCAtionThe Music Hallway, Building B.

A convenient drop box is located in the hallway just outside the Library.

hoUrs oF operAtionTuesday 9:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.Thursday 9:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.Sunday 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Listen to JeFF’s perCeptions

LIBRARY

New books for adults:n Quilted by Christmas by Jodie Bailey (Quilts of Love series)n A Christmas Prayer by Kimberla Lawson Roby (a novella)n 12 Stories of Christmas by Robert J. Morgan n Christmas Comes to Bethlehem, Maine by Lorraine Beatty, Elizabeth Ludwig, Sandra Robbins & Virginia Vaughann Where Treetops Glisten: Three Stories of Heartwarming Courage and Christmas Romance During WW ll by Tricia Goyer, Cara Putman, Sarah Sundin

Other media for adults:n Finding Noel by Richard Paul Evans (audio book)n Christmas Stories for the Heart compiled by Alice Grayn Chicken Soup for the Soul: It’s Christmas! n The Christmas Shoes by Donna VanLieren The Christmas Blessing by Donna VanLieren The Christmas Promise by Donna VanLiere

We also have 34 Christmas books for children!

Merry Christmas from the staff of the Lighthouse Library. Come by and check out these books about Christmas. During this busy season, find a little down time to enjoy a Christmas story.

Closed Christmas week

stAY ConneCted with Christ UMCChristUMCMobiLe.CoM

to receive the Christ UMC in the Loop email blast or

electronic version of the monthly newsletter, visit

ChristUMCMobiLe.CoM/MediA

LiKe Usfacebook.com/christumcmobile

FoLLow Ustwitter.com/christumcmobile

podCAstchristumcmobile.com/media

wAtCh Livechristumcmobile.com/media

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6:30 p.m. Christian Cancer support Group

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8:30 a.m. Free blood pressure Check

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6:30 p.m. Celebrate recovery

6:30 p.m. Celebrate recovery

For more information on Christ UMC, visit christumcmobile.com

sUndAY MondAY tUesdAY wednesdAY thUrsdAY FridAY sAtUrdAY

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11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. ransom Cafe

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“For unto us a Child is born, Unto us a son is given; and the government will be upon his shoulder. And his name will be called wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, everlasting Father, prince of peace.” isaiah 9:6 (nKJv)

Christmas eve services

4 p.m., 6 p.m., 11 p.m.

register for January classes by visiting

KindermusikAtchristunited.comCall Trish Dougherty at 251.706.3336 or trish@christumcmobile.com.

Visit Page 3 for a list of all our Christmas Services and celebrations.

HAPPY NEW YEARFROM CHRIST UMC

5:00 p.m. Candlelight Communion service

Merry ChristMas froM Christ UMCDecemberDecember

Last day to submit 2014 contributions

2:00 p.m. Concert & birthday party for baby Jesus5:00 p.m. Youth Christmas party

UMw soup sale10:40 a.m. Choir ChristmasConcert - sanctuary

5:00 p.m. 50+ Christmas dinner & Celebration

7:00 p.m. ChristmasConcert - sanctuary

11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. ransom Cafe

11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. ransom Cafe

5:00 p.m. beauty from Ashes service

6:30 p.m. Celebrate recovery Youth silence & solitude

8:00 a.m. hands & Feet Missions

11:00 a.m. preschool Fun day

Year-end ContributionsPlease remember that your year-end contributions must be

in the church office, in our bank account or postmarked by December 31, 2014 to receive credit on your 2014

taxes. Please note Christ UMC will be closed December 23 - 26 and January 1, 2015.

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Christ United Methodist ChUrCh6101 Grelot road • Mobile, AL 36609-3611251.342.0462 • christumcmobile.com

FridAY, deCeMber 127:00 p.m. | sanctuary

Join us for our annual Christmas concert featuring Christ UMC sanctuary Choir, handbell Choir, orchestra and narration.

50+ Ministry Annual Christmas Celebration – A southern Christmas

wednesday, december 105:00 p.m. | hospitality room | Cost: $12

enjoy dinner catered by Kraver’s seafood and entertainment by steve ellisor. register by contacting Kim pratt at

251.706.3331 by december 3 at 12:00 p.m.

bring a small ornament in a gift bag (under $5) which will be given to a needy family

to help brighten their Christmas. only one ornament per couple.

thanksgiving For the homesickthursday, november 27

11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.Volunteers and supplies needed for Thanksgiving for the Homesick

with Ransom Cafe at Christ UMC. Visit ransomcafe.com and click events to get a supply list or

volunteer. Volunteers are needed on Thanksgiving Day to serve and the day before (Wednesday, November 26) to prepare.

Christ UMC Annual Car showsaturday, February 21

registration: 8:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Judging: 12:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.Awards Ceremony: 3:00 p.m.

Visit christumcmobile.com/carshow to register. Spectator admission is FREE! Plenty of food and entertainment for everyone! Vendors are welcome. There will be an Honor Guard Flag Ceremony.

All proceeds will benefit the ministries of Christ UMC. Contact Ricky Bell at richard.bell65@gmail.com for more details.