circuit rider- february 2013
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newsletterTRANSCRIPT
SOUPER SUNDAY!
February 3 Immediately following the 10:45 church service
Chili & Chicken Noodle Soup
and Dessert!
$5.00 donation (children under 10-‐ FREE!)
*Takeout and delivery available*
Circuit Rider February 2013
Newsletter of the Tekamah & Decatur United Methodist Churches 1408 L Street, Tekamah, NE 68061
Non-‐Profit Org. U.S. POSTAGE
PAID TEKAMAH, NE Permit No. 37
Address Service Requested
How to Contact Us:
Philip Sloat, Pastor Tekamah/Decatur UMC Julie Borkosky, Parish Secretary
The Parish Office is located at the Tekamah UMC, on the corner of Highway 32 and 14th Street.
Tekamah Church Phone: (402) 374-2888 Decatur Church Phone: (402) 349-5120
Church Email: [email protected]
Church Website: http://www.tekamahumc.org
Pastor’s Residence: (402) 374-2751 Pastor’s Cell Phone: (402) 307-0047 Pastor’s E-Mail: [email protected]
Secretary Hours: M-Th 8:30-12:30
Worship Schedule
Decatur UMC Worship Service: 8:45 AM
Fellowship Time (after Church 2nd Sundays)
Tekamah UMC Sunday School: 9:30 AM for Adults
Fellowship Time: 10:00 AM Worship & Children’s Sunday School: 10:45 AM
LOOK INSIDE FOR…
- LENT HAPPENINGS (Lent is right around the corner!)
- VALENTINE’S BANQUET
- BISHOP’S FREE THROW CHALLENGE
Lenten Brunch
The annual Lenten Brunch hosted by Tekamah United Methodist Women will be Saturday, March 23 at 9:30 AM in the fellowship hall. More information will be available at a later date.
Congratulations! It’s a …
(Let us know if we have missed other new arrivals or joyful occasions!)
Lenten Prayer Breakfasts
Each year the Tekamah/Herman/Decatur Church Community Council sponsors a series of Prayer Breakfasts during Lent. Each congregation takes a turn hosting the breakfast, with the men preparing the food and the pastor providing a brief devotion.
Breakfasts will be served at 6:30 AM in the fellowship hall of Emmanuel Lutheran Church every Wednesday morning in Lent, beginning on February 20.
The Tekamah/Decatur UMC and Riverside Baptist Church will join together to host the first breakfast on February 20.
Breakfasts are open to everyone!
Lenten Bible Studies
This year we will be studying Adam Hamilton’s book The Way, Walking in the Footsteps of Jesus. Through the study book and the accompanying video presentations, we will follow as Adam Hamilton takes us to important places in Jesus’ life. These include the River Jordan, the wilderness, and the city of Capernaum. Through this study we will deepen our understanding of Jesus’ life as well as our faith and love in him.
We will offer the study in Tekamah on Tuesday evenings at 7:00 PM and Wednesday mornings at 9:00 AM. We will also offer it in Decatur at the Maple Villa Community Room on Thursdays at 1:00 PM.
Other times and locations can be arranged. If you have any suggestions or would be interested in leading a study, please contact Pastor Phil.
Lenten Fish Fries
St. Patrick’s Catholic Church will again be hosting Fish Fries on Friday evenings during Lent:
Friday, February 15 thru Friday, March 15 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Outside groups will have the opportunity to raise funds by providing dessert. The Tekamah UMC Pie Ladies will serve pie on March 8.
Lenten Brunch The annual Lenten Brunch hosted by Tekamah United Methodist Women will be Saturday, March 23 at 9:30 a.m. in the fellowship hall. Our speaker will be Rev. Carol Jean Stapleton, pastor at St. Paul’s United Methodist Church, South Sioux City. She will show pictures and speak about her Volunteer In Mission trip to Israel. Everyone is invited to attend the brunch and program. There is no admission cost; however, donations to the Tekamah-‐Decatur-‐Herman Food Bank are welcome.
ASH WEDNESDAY Wednesday, February 13
Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of Lent, the forty days that prepare us for
Holy Week—when we remember how Christ died for us and rose again.
Mark the beginning of Lent with a special call to repentance and increased devotion. This brief 30-‐minute worship offers, to those who wish to receive,
the imposition of ashes. Join us at either of our Worship Services.
Tekamah Ash Wednesday Service—6:00 PM
Decatur Ash Wednesday Service—7:00 PM
Need a bookmark? Just cut on the dotted line!
FEBRUARY 3 Fourth Sunday after the Epiphany
Jeremiah 1:4-10 Psalm 71:1-6 (UMH 794)
1 Corinthians 13:1-13 Luke 4:21-30
FEBRUARY 10 Transfiguration Sunday
Exodus 34:29-35 Psalm 99 (UMH 819)
2 Corinthians 3:12–4:2 Luke 9:28-36 (37-43)
FEBRUARY 17 First Sunday in Lent
Deuteronomy 26:1-11 Psalm 91:1-2, 9-16 (UMH 810)
Romans 10:8b-13 Luke 4:1-13
FEBRUARY 24 Second Sunday in Lent
Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18 Psalm 27 (UMH 758) Philippians 3:17–4:1
Luke 13:31-35
February Lectionary
WORLD DAY OF PRAYER Friday, March 1
The World Day of Prayer takes place internationally on the first Friday of March every year. It is a day for Christians around the world to gather to pray. This year, World Day of Prayer is March 1. The host country, France, has developed the theme: "I was a stranger and you welcomed me." In Tekamah, First Baptist Church will hold a prayer service on Friday, March 1 at 2:00 PM. In Decatur, our service will be held at the Riverside Baptist on Friday, March 1 at 7:00 PM.
The symbol for World Day of Prayer was developed by the women of Ireland and adopted as
the international logo in 1982. Its design is made up of arrows converging from the four points of the compass, persons kneeling in prayer, the Celtic cross, and the circle, representing the world and our unity through all our diversity.
Horizons of Faith in Omaha presents a special weekend:
Why Did Jesus, Moses, the Buddha and Mohammed Cross the Road?
CHRISTIAN IDENTITY IN A MULTI-FAITH WORLD
Featuring Brian McLaren
March 8, 9, 10
At First United Methodist Church (69th and Cass, Omaha)
Registration is $45 if postmarked by Feb 22
$65 after that date Contact Pastor Phil or the church office for more information.
Brian McLaren is an author, speaker, activist, and public theologian. A former college English teacher and pastor, he is an ecumenical global networker among innovative Christian leaders. Learn more about him at brianmclaren.net.
When requesting prayers please describe the reason that prayer is needed as briefly and simply as possible. Please call the church/pastor at the numbers listed on the cover of this newsletter. If you are unable to reach either Pastor Phil or Julie, you may also contact Lela Thompson at (402) 456-7465.
If you would like to become part of the prayer chain, contact Lela Thompson
or the Parish Office.
DECATUR
Howard Storm Harold Jones, Jr. Helen Kahlandt
Keri Clark Jean McAllister
Don Worley Jody Mitchell
Helen Thomas Art and Janice Mussack
Jim Reno Marilyn Kinning
Al Little Owl Donny Brewer Barbara Bates Betty Farrens Skip Farrens
Janette Maryott Bob Culak (son-in-law of Gerry & Barb Bates)
PERSONS IN THE ARMED FORCES & THE LEADERS OF OUR COUNTRY
Ashlea Hittle Chris Pankonin Zach Townsend Michael Braniff Curtis Archer
Logan Anderson Daniel Menard
Charlie McGuire Dustin Stulke Joel Farrens Marty Raue
Tim Mussack Bruce Nicholls
Michael Jernigan Timothy Johnson
B.J. “Bill” Huntington Tessa & Nate Darling Jeremiah Szynskie Gary Ray Strong
Steven Cole Phelps
Thoughts on Prayer…
As Christians, it is our responsibility to pray for one and other not only in times of specific need, but always. Prayer is a stronger force than any of us can imagine, because we are praising and asking of a living, loving God for the things in our hearts. He is able to do all things and promises us that his love is enough to provide all our needs. But, he expects us to come to him in prayer, to worship him and to pour out our hearts to him. Our church organized a Prayer Chain with the purpose of praying for one another about our specific requests. Please use this opportunity to help lift the burden from your heart by letting others be your intercessor and take your cares to our Lord. Intercessory prayer is an effective way to petition God for others’ cares. When praying, the intercessor puts himself in the place of the other person and asks God for that person’s needs. It is a privilege to pray so fervently for others. We would like to expand the use of the Prayer Chain and its participants, because there is great need. Please do not hesitate to call with your requests, and please, if you would like to be a part of the ministry of praying for others, contact us.
-submitted by Lela Thompson
Our Sympathies…
To Pastor Phil and family upon the recent passing of his father, Orland Sloat To the family of Eric Feiling
TEKAMAH
Bertha Coleman Harold Jones, Jr.
Steve O’Mara Keith Palmer
Lois Weatherly Lloyd Dannen Pat Maxwell Joan Hoeper Edythe Porter Joan Snow
Pam Robison Doris Olson
Verna Weatherly Mike Maxwell
“Skeeter” and Bill Brass Haley Deemer
Marion & Eva McCluskey Letha & Phil Eriksen Roland & Kay Shafer Lyle and Gloria Marr
Dave Hepp (father of Sara Moser) Kenny Fisher (cousin of Mike Jones)
Lucas Richards (friend of Mayo Family) Helen Sommerer (sister of Donna Mock) Virginia Huppe (cousin of John Dallmann)
Ridge McCall (great-grandson of Joann Hoeper)
HATS OFF!!!
I know that I am not alone in giving accolades and special thanks to the women who have taken charge of reorganizing our Sunday School. What a joy to see all the little youngsters go forward for the children’s sermon and then file off to their Sunday School class. Often I stand so I can get a better view of their intense little faces and then the smiles as they sing or otherwise perform. Thank you, ladies, for your efforts. All of us are grateful for what you are doing to lead these beautiful little children to know and love Jesus. Special blessings for all of you.
Sincerely, Lela Thompson
We still have APPLE PIES for sale!
If you have any information to include in the March newsletter,
please submit it to the church office by Thursday, February 21.
LOST: One large red cooler Please contact the church office if you have seen it. Thank you!
February Birthdays
Decatur
2 – Peggy Smith 14 – Jennie Hardeman
Tekamah
3 – John Wilson 5 – Donna Mock 6 – Eric Bruce 7 – Brent Ahrens 8 – Beth Weatherly, Holly Loftis 10 – Roland Shafer 15 – Jean Cameron 16 – Blair Magill, Nik Beninato 17 – Martha Harmon 22 – Jack Palmer 23 – Bill Anderson 26 – Verna Weatherly 27 – Jennifer Haverkamp 28 – Tom Melcher
All are invited to
Roger and Phyllis Barber’s
50th Anniversary Party
Saturday, February 16 6:00-9:00 PM
at Petersen’s Bar 75 in Herman
Valentine’s Banquet “Celebrating Love!”
Tekamah Un. Methodist Church Sunday, February 17 Social Hour—5:00 PM Banquet—5:30 PM
Entertainment following will feature square dancing!
Tickets are $10 a person. Childcare will be provided.
Reservations must be made by Tuesday, Feb. 12. Call Parish Office (402) 374-‐2888 or email us at:
Meal catered by Sharon (Liz) Chase. Sponsored by the Tekamah Un. Methodist Men.
NOTE: A small-base quad walking cane has been donated to our church for anyone to use as needed.
Shoot for N MALARIA
Are You Open? Being Radical United Methodists
A conference to help us open up to God’s radical grace as we learn about our Wesleyan heritage, recognize the opportunities for mission and outreach all around us, and discover renewed vision and passion for being disciples of Jesus Christ in the 21st Century!
Our Bishop Scott Jones will lead this event.
February 8-9, 2013 at the Life Long Learning Center
Northeast Community College 801 E. Benjamin Ave., Norfolk, Nebraska
Pastor Phil and Kelly Sloat, Mark Siecke and Larry Mussack are part of a team of laity from the Decatur and Tekamah congregations taking part in this conference. We have one spot left, if you are interested in being a part of this exciting event…. Contact Pastor Phil ASAP!
We want to extend a special invitation to our district youth to attend "The Lighter Side of Church" with T. Marnie Vos as presenter. The entertainment will be held on Friday evening, February 8th at 7:00 p.m. The Elkhorn Valley District is offering a special rate to our youth-- only $10.00 each. Admission for event participants is included in the registration fee or adults $15.00 at the door. Of course we are still accepting and welcome registrations for the entire event with Bishop Scott Jones, Bishop of the Great Plains Area.
How many free throws can Bishop Scott Jones make? On February 23, he will attempt 1,000 free throws—and, as a fundraiser for Imagine No Malaria, you can donate $10 to guess how many baskets he will make. If you guess the correct number, Bishop Jones will buy you dinner! Thereʼs still time to make a guess… just go to www.ShootForNoMalaria.net, and click on “Bishopʼs Free Throw Challenge.” You can make your guess and donate via PayPal, or you can download a form, write in your guess and mail it, along with a $10 check* to: 3333 Landmark Circle, Lincoln NE 68504. *Make checks payable to Nebraska Conference Treasurer, and write “Bishopʼs Free Throw Challenge” on the memo line. There are blank forms available in the back of the sanctuary… pick one up and make your guess!
Vital Congregations: Next Steps—Update!
The Tekamah United Methodist Church joined in an exciting program called “Vital Congregations: Next Steps” on Saturday, January 12, 2013 at St. Paul United Methodist Church in Papillion. The team representing Tekamah consists of Pastor Phil, Bruce and Carolyn Riddell, Bob and Donna Gatzemeyer, Jan Bowden, Jan Orton, Patty Wilson and Lela Thompson. Since their first session, the group has gathered twice more to discuss plans and ideas they have to enhance the ministries of our church. Our next session will be held on Saturday, February 9. Please pray for the persons on our team as they learn and grow as disciples and leaders in our church!
Vital Congregations: Next Steps—Update!
The Tekamah United Methodist Church joined in an exciting program called “Vital Congregations: Next Steps” on Saturday, January 12, 2013 at St. Paul United Methodist Church in Papillion.
The team representing Tekamah consists of Pastor Phil, Bruce and Carolyn Riddell, Bob and Donna
Gatzemeyer, Jan Bowden, Jan Orton, Patty Wilson and Lela Thompson.
Since their first session, the group has gathered twice more to discuss plans and ideas they have to enhance the ministries of our church.
Our next session will be held on Saturday, February 9. Please pray for the persons on our team as they learn and grow as disciples and leaders in our church!
Thoughts from Pastor Phil
[Jesus said,] “Do not judge, and you will not be judged; do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive and you will be forgiven. . . Why do you see the speck in your neighbor’s eye, but do not notice the log in your own eye? Or how can you say to your neighbor, ‘Friend, let me take out the speck in your eye,’ when you yourself do not see the log in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the log out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to take the speck out of your neighbor’s eye.
—Luke 6:37, 41-‐42 NRSV
Clear Me From Hidden Faults-‐Ps. 19:12
Lent begins halfway through February. During the forty days of Lent we examine ourselves and confess our sins as we prepare for the observance of Holy Week and Easter. We know that we are sinners and that we need God’s grace to forgive us. However, sometimes we are inclined to compare ourselves to others, thinking that it makes us look better.
Currently we see an alarming trend in the younger generations in our country. Over a third of them have refused to affiliate themselves with any organized religious group. Rates of attendance at worship services of all Christian denominations have dropped precipitously. At the same time the average age of our members has increased.
So, compared to these young people who don’t go to church, we think that we’re not so bad. After all, we attend church services regularly. We give money to our local church regularly. As good Methodists we are generally sober and well behaved.
Jesus warns us to avoid judging others. For when we rationalize that our sins are less serious than the sins of others, we fall into sin—the sin of pride. An especially dangerous sin as it distorts our self-‐perception (we think we have the god-‐like ability to see into the hearts of others and know their circumstances and motivations) and undermines our willingness to depend on God’s grace. We delude ourselves and think that we are okay and don’t need to be forgiven.
We must be careful when we look at the people who have grown up outside the church or who have consciously chosen to separate themselves from the church. They are not all hostile to God. Many of them are deeply spiritual. Many of them see themselves as both religious and spiritual. We err badly if we demonize these persons or condemn the choices they have made, for it is we who have failed them. We have practiced our faith in a way that does not satisfy their spiritual needs. Christians, in general, are seen as judgmental, narrow-‐minded, hierarchical, homophobic, anti-‐woman and cruel. We have allowed our religion to become so organized and formal that the presence and power of the Holy Spirit are no longer apparent in it.
We might say that this situation was not of our making—we are merely following the pattern of those who came before us. And that may even be partly true. But it doesn’t address the dilemma in which we find ourselves.
Let us approach this season of Lent with humility—recognizing that me have many hidden faults to discover, confess and repent from. Let us look at the signs of hope and vitality around us. And let us be open to what we might learn from the young people around us, especially those who are not currently part of our congregation!