First United Methodist Church of North Hollywood

GOOD NEWSe-mail: nohofumc@pacbell.net

AUGUST 2014facebook.com/nohofumc1www.nohofumc.com

IN THIS ISSUE:

• Discovery Arts Kits

• Entertainers For Education Fundraiser

• Summer Events

• Kid City Volunteers

GOOD NEWS is published monthly by First United Methodist Church of North Hollywood, California 91601Phone (818) 763-8231

Minerva CarcañoBishop

Rev. Dr. Cedrick Bridgeforth District Superintendent

Dr. Joey K. McDonaldPastor

CongregationMinisters

Jeff ThomasDirector of Music

Roger EshlemanOrganist

Nylean RapinacAdministrator

Patty KelseyDirector, Program Ministries

Jessica RenslowDirector, Outreach Ministries

Your Friend and Pastor,Joey

A NOTE FROM PASTOR JOEY

There is a wonderful old joke where some friends are sharing dinner and the host says, “Would you care for some Southern California Wine?” and the guests say, “Why yes, thank you.”  The host then says, “Oh Daddy, I need a new BMW and a 52 inch flat screen television, and I will simply die if I don’t get this new phone.  Please, please, I must have them.”  It really is not much of a stretch to say in some manner this is what the Apostle Paul is dealing with in his letter to the people of Corinth.

He is writing to a group of effete elitists operating under the mistaken notion that they could follow Jesus and still practice their particular pagan, hedonistic ways.  Paul, however, knew that encountering Christ was a “game changer.”  After half a life of following the narrow way of judgment as the highest calling in life, Paul met Jesus on that dusty Damascus road and experienced what navigators call a course correction.  He knew he could not continue on the same path in the same manner because he was no longer the same person.  Before knowing Jesus and choosing to follow him, Paul had been the prince of judgment, afterward he became the emperor of grace.  Little wonder he would try to explain to the Corinthians who’s who and what’s what with regard to their understanding of what constitutes high and holy behavior.  Their usual response to Paul was complaining, questioning why they could not simply incorporate their old practices in their new life of faith, and failing all else they would challenge his spiritual authority.

We know this is not a new story.  The account in Exodus with Moses leading the chosen out of bondage in Egypt relates.  Remember God called Moses to lead, the people did not hire, or elect him.   As they journeyed, the people began to question Moses ability to lead, and even his relationship with God. So they ‘murmured’ against him the text records.   In modern parlance, we would say they were recreational gripers, perhaps even professional whiners.  We know people like this.  Heck, if we are not careful, we become such people.  How much better then would it be to focus on the love and grace we know in faith?  The choice we have each day is to drink from the bitter cup of whine, or partake of the grape of grace given by our model and mentor, Jesus.  I’ll raise my glass in a toast to the latter.

COME AND WORSHIPThe following Bible passages will be the basis for the 10:30 messages in August.

Please take time each week to read the selected passages.

August 3 On A Limp And A Blessing Genesis 32:22-31

August 10 On Being A Spoiled Brat Genesis 37:1-4, 12-28

August 17 A Holy Humble Brag Genesis 45:1-15

August 24 Spiritual Sci Fi Romans 12:1-8

August 30 Knowing Matters Matthew 16:21-28

HIGHLIGHTS OF WORSHIP

July 6 - Today, we welcomed back Pastor Joey for his 25th year! Scott Shepard presented Pastor Joey with a card and gift on behalf of the Staff Parish Relations Committee. The Methodist Men’s Chorus sang a Patriotic Medley in honor of Independence Sunday. Norman and Phillip led the monthly announcements with Hits Of The Summer! Pastor Joey’s sermon was titled, “A Spiritual Selfie,” based on Romans 7:15-25a.

July 13 - Jim Tyree sat in for Patty Kelsey in the Lectern this morning. Anne Hawthorne and Byron Hayes shared a mission moment about the Los Angeles Urban Foundation’s Kid City program. One of the children who benefited from the program also played saxophone for the congregation at both 8:15 & 10:30 worship services. Pastor Joey’s message, “The Spiritual Mindset,” was based on Romans 8:1-11.

July 20 - Pastor Joey shared a prayer for peace in memory of those lost on Malaysia flight 17 and those harmed in Gaza. Patty Kelsey led a moment with the Children this morning about the Parable of the Weeds and Wheat. Pastor Joey shared a message on Genesis 28:10-19a called “Jacob’s GPS.”

July 27 - This morning’s worship service was simple and lovely. Pastor Joey shared a message called “Family Matters,” that was based on Genesis 29:15-28.

HIGHLIGHTS OF FELLOWSHIP IN JULY

David Eshleman’s All Church Movie Night on July 8th was well attended for dinner and the movie, Monuments Men. On Wednesday, July 9th, everyone had fun at the UMW Bingo Night and also enjoy frozen treats! The Mission Team organized their monthly PB & J project, on Thursday, July 17th, where 150 sandwiches were made for the homeless that visit the North Hollywood Interfaith Food Pantry on Fridays. On Saturday, July 19th, a fun group gathered outside the lounge to enjoy pizza, popcornopolis and the Empire Strikes Back on the big screen, under the stars. Lisa Cheby’s Evening of Awe and Wonder was a tremendous success on Friday, July 25th. The gorgeous crepe myrtles on the patio were a colorful backdrop for many communities weaved together in poetry and music. Many new visitors had the opportunity to see our beautiful church and fell in love with the ambiance. Shaun Vieten, Francis Nyaforh, Libeck Kadu, Chad Sweeney, Norman Kelsey, and Jenny Factor, shared their gifts with the wonderful audience. The month’s events ended with the Methodist Men Pancake Breakfast in between worship services on Sunday, July 27th. Everyone enjoyed homemade pancakes and turkey sausage for a donation with money going to support the Methodist Men.

Join us for food, fellowship and fun!

Sunset SocialFriday, August 22nd

DINNER6:30 - 8:30 PM on the PatioHAWAIIAN THEME

Dress in your tropical duds!Hula lessons too!

Outdoor

Friday, August 8th

Gather outside the

Lounge

7:00 PM Dinner

8:00 PM Outdoor

Movie

Pizza, Punch & Popcorn!

Friday, August 29th

*Bring blankets, beach chairs or bean bags!(chairs provided for those who cannot sit on the ground).

What’s Happening in August? Mission Focus for the Month - Discovery Arts Bedside Adventure Kits!

Please bring art supplies to church the first 4 Sundays this month! Kits assembled on the 31st!

Monday, August 18th - Tabitha Fellowship meets in the Hand in Hand room at 10:30 AM.

Sunday, August 10th - Mission Sunday! Bring non-perishable foods for the Food Pantry. Peanut Butter and Tuna requested. Mission Team Meeting today after coffee hour. Meet in Hand in

Tuesday, August 12thLounge

6:45 - Dinner7:15 - Movie

Tuesday, August 26th7:30 PMLounge

All are welcome to join in a brief meeting, refreshments & movie.

Friday, August 29th - End Of Summer Outdoor Movie Night! Meet in the Lounge at 7pm for Pizza, Popcorn and a Movie at 8pm on a Summer Night! (See flyer for details)

Tuesday, August 26th - Methodist Men meet at 7:00 PM in the Lounge. Meeting & Movie.

Wednesday, August 27th - United Methodist Women Boutique Workshop meet at the home of Kathi Ellis. 9:30 AM.

Wednesday, August 13th10:00 AM

Meet in South Lot to carpool

The United Methodist Women will take a trip to the Toberman

Neighborhood Center in San Pedro.

RSVP by Monday, August 4th!

See Kathi Ellis to sign up

BASKETBALLTuesdays & Thursday 6PM

Saturdays 9AMMeet on the Sports Court

Wednesday, August 20th - Ruth Circle meets at 7:30pm. Location - contact Kathi Ellis.

Friday, August 22nd - Sunset Social - Hawaiian Night! Wear your tropical duds and join us on our Patio for a lovely night of Hawaiian music and food. 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM. RSVP.

Thursday, August 21st - PB & J Project! Meet at 7:00 PM in the Lounge. Making 150 sandwiches for the homeless.

Tuesday, August 12th - All-Church Movie Night hosted by David & Amy! 6:45 PM Dinner and 7:15 Movie in the Lounge. (See details below)Wednesday, August 13th - United Methodist Women Field Trip to Toberman Neighborhood Center.

Friday, August 8th - Outdoor Movie Night! Meet in the Lounge at 7pm for Pizza, popcorn and a 8pm Movie under the stars! (See flyer for details)

Sunday, August 31st - Bedside Adventure Kits Assembly Day! Make an art kit for hospitalized children. In front of the Lounge following worship.

Saturday, August 30th - Adventure Kit Prep Day and Box Decorating Party! Meet in the Lounge. 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM. To organize art supplies and decorate 50 boxes for assembly day.

Saturday, August 23rd - Entertainers for Education in the Social Hall. 2:00 - 3:30 PM. Fundraiser for Carolyn Miller School in Liberia.

BEDSIDE ADVENTURE KITSBy Patty Kelsey

Your Missions Team is supporting Discovery Arts for the fourth year by making

Bedside Adventure Kits!

Discovery Arts brings music, dance, art and drama to children with cancer, serious blood

disorders and life threatening illness while they are receiving treatment.

We will be making 50 boxes filled to the brim with art supplies!

SUPPLIES WISH LIST(* - means they are in need of this item)

*Safety Scissors *Crayons (8-16 ct.)

*Glue (bottles or sticks)Paint Brushes

Crayola Tub Paint SetsMarkers (8 ct.)Glitter Glue

Construction PaperPlay-doh

Dot Markers

Assorted Stick-on items:Wood, Foam, Fuzzy balls, googly eyes, sparkles, sequins, beads, string, buttons, feathers, yarn.

Bring art supplies on August 3, 10, 17 & 24 Drop them off on the table next to Boyer Chapel.

We will assemble kits on Sunday, August 31st! Thank you for your support!

Alyssa with a Bedside Adventure Kit!

HELP US PREP & DECORATE

Our Mission focus for August is Discovery Arts and their Bedside Adventure kits!

We are in need of helpers to organize and prepare for our Kit Assembly Day. All of our donated art

supplies need to be sorted and individually package and 50 boxes need to be assembled and decorated.

Please make time to join us on:

Saturday, August 30th10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

In the Lounge

DON’T THROW AWAY MONEY! - UPDATEBy Lynn Yoshizumi

We hope that you are now aware that every box of Kleenex tissue has a Box Tops for Education on it. Previously you had to hunt for it on the bottom of the box and wait until all the Kleenex were gone.  Kleenex has made it easier for us.  The box top is on the piece of cardboard you remove from the top of the box before you start using the tissues.  They are on many other products too.

All of the Box Tops for Education that are collected at FUMC/NH are sent to Red Bird Mission, a full-service mission of the United Methodist Church, the only one of its kind in the U.S.  It serves approximately 14,000 people each year. The Red Bird area of Kentucky is deep in the Appalachian Mountains, in Bell, Clay and Leslie counties. In these 3 counties, the poverty levels are so high that they are all ranked in the top 20 poorest counties in the entire U.S.  Clay County has the highest poverty level of all.

The main campus of the Mission includes Red Bird Christian School (K-12), as well as medical and dental clinics and a pharmacy.  There is also a church and senior center.  The Community Outreach Program helps area residents become food secure by educating and assisting them with farming and gardening.

“A TWIST OF FAITH”By Lynn Yoshizumi, Church Librarian

Prolific reader Jodi Smith brought to my attention that a book in the UMW Reading Program relates to our congregation’s desire to help students at Francis Nyaforh’s high school alma, the Carolyn E. Miller School in Liberia.  Veteran reporter John Donnelly has discovered that American Christians are an ever-increasing source of aid in Africa, with some experts estimating that U.S. churches supply more resources to Africa than USAID.

In his book “A Twist of Faith”, Donnelly writes about carpenter David Nixon from North Carolina who knew nothing about Malawi.  But after having a religious awakening and hearing about a preacher's efforts to aid its impoverished and beleaguered citizens, he raises money from his church and sets off to do what so many well-intentioned Americans of faith do in Africa: build an orphanage.  Nixon slowly comes to realize that helping others requires listening to and learning from them. And that means changing his preconceived ideas of what the Malawians need and how he can best serve them. He ended up building a school and feeding center that supports 350 children orphaned by AIDS.  Nixon's story is representative of a growing trend: the thousands of American Christians who are impassioned donors of time, money, and personal energy, devoted to helping African children. 

With slightly less than 200 pages, “A Twist of Faith” is a compelling story and a fast, easy read.  In an effort to make this book available to as many in our congregation as possible, we are asking that borrowers read and return the book in 2 weeks, rather than the usual 3.  The book may be found in the blue dot section of the Reading Program area to the left of the fireplace in the Lounge.

You can give the Box Tops to Judy Palmer or leave them in the church office or you can even put them in an envelope or little plastic baggie and drop it through the mail slot in the church office door if no one is in the office.

Keep your eyes open - Every dime helps!

Congratulations to Shaun Vieten and Libeck Kadu, who tied the knot this Summer! Shaun and Li officially were married on June 4th at the Van Nuys Court House Wedding Chapel in front of a judge and two witnesses. Then Pastor Joey officiated a beautiful ceremony with their family and friends on Saturday, July 26th.

Here is Gary Solt before a concert in Nagoya, Japan!

Gary reports that all is going well! The band is great and the crowds are large.

He also says that, “The sushi is OISHI!!!”

“See you soon!”

~ Gary

Have you noticed Scott Peat is all over the television this summer? Scott is popping up on the latest ads for Wall’s Ice Cream, Apple and Comcast Xfinity! You can also see and hear Ava and Ashley in the latest Subaru ad, along with Scott! We are so proud of you all! Congrats!

We are so grateful to Pastor Joey for all you have given us over these last 9 years. We will always treasure our Monday chapels with you, Mr. Ellis, Mr. Kelsey & Mr. Thomas. Your heart, generosity, compassion and spirit will always be with us.

With Love and Gratitude, The Wesley Class of 2014

*The card came with a donation for our church.

We have heard precious stories of our church kids spotting those in need and directing their parents to give away care kits. They love the care kit ministry! How wonderful to see youngsters show such love and concern for the homeless in our community.

Many many thanks for everyone's generous donations to the Los Angeles United Methodist Urban Foundation and the Kid City program! We had a wonderful time at your beautiful church, and look forward to coming again. Thanks also to Gary Solt for the donation of a guitar amp - very exciting for our band. Several of you expressed an interest in volunteering or mentoring.

Kid City's next volunteer orientations will be August 23 and September 13, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM, followed by a light lunch. We would love to welcome you as our partners in ministry.

P lease ema i l Anne Hawtho rne , U rban Foundat ion d i rec to r , a t annehawthorne@gmail.com (or call 213-749-0212, ext. 2#) for more information about volunteering. We have something for everyone!

Read more at www.urbanfoundation.org

August 3 Tim AlbrightAugust 5 Caitlin Thomas August 6 David ZungAugust 7 Troas StanbaughAugust 10 Bruce NeckelsAugust 12 Pauline LongAugust 14 Henry MottazAugust 15 Erin NeckelsAugust 17 Richard RocheAugust 19 Michael Acosta

August 23 Jason BooksAugust 23 Abigail EllisAugust 24 Kealan SucherAugust 25 Lynn YoshizumiAugust 26 Erin KentAugust 26 David KirushimaAugust 26 Jerome SawirisAugust 26 Marijane SettlemyerAugust 28 Betty DumbauldAugust 28 Karen Griggs

Wishing you many blessings on your birthday!Love, Your Church Family

Edward Zung underwent major surgery to remove cancer from his stomach. He is recuperating and needs prayers of healing.

Deanne Cox was diagnosed with an autoimmune condition and just finished plasmapherisis after 36 days straight of this treatment. She has dialysis three times per week. Please pray for the healing of her kidneys.

Please continue to lift up Nancy Gatchell who is in hospice at The Lighthouse.

The Cunningham family needs our prayers. Kathie, David, Shannon and Kelley. David and Kelley’s Dad, Stephen was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer about two weeks before he passed away on Friday, June 13th.

Our newest member, Elena, is still waiting for her appointment with immigration to file for religious asylum.

Rhonda Scott’s dear friend, RoseMarie Fontana’s husband, Chuck, has entered the final stages of pancreatic cancer.

Did you know we have an email prayer chain and a prayer phone tree? Would you like to be a prayer warrior that receives all

prayer requests that come to the office? Some people do not want their prayers printed in the newsletter or posted on our eblast, but still want the power of prayer. Let the church office know if you’d

like to be added to the email or phone prayer chains.

Reflections! Joey K. "Donald

Reflections are part of the weekly bulletin inserts for worship. This writing is originally from July 7, 1996 and Dr. McDonald’s sermon was titled “Soul Aerobics” based on Romans 7:15-25a

Today’s text is Romans 7:15-25a.  This letter from Paul presents a common problem found in the body of faith, then and now.  Namely, how do we resolve the inclination to sin, found in believing persons of faith?  Throughout this passage, Paul holds himself up as a fellow pilgrim struggling with issues of life and faith.  He bears his soul by sharing that often he does what he knows he should not, and fails to do what he knows he should.  Time and again he mentions the natural tension existing between law and grace, between flesh and spirit.

All too often, we as modern believers forget the struggles of our parents in the faith.  The Saints of the Church, be they historical; like Paul, Peter, James, or John, or local; as those who founded this local church, all were human.  Each filled with the same frailties of personal existence you and I possess.  Paul recognized that when people become focused on legalism, their vision becomes narrow.  When rules become more important than people, and since perfection is not possible, mistakes become the most valuable commodity.   Paul knew this because of his zealous past.  While his conversion did not free him from sin, it did free him to experience the grace of Christ.

Paul does not suggest we ignore sin, denial is unwise, and only leads to greater difficulties.  However, he doesn’t suggest we become burdened by our frailty either.  To do so would depress and paralyze even the most sturdy soul.  He instructs us to do what only one who has experienced the love and kindness of God could.  To leave our lives in the hands of God, trusting in the grace of Christ.  Legalism is easier than love.  However, the Apostle reminds us that God’s love is a perfect fit for the sinner, custom tailored for each of us.

OPPORTUNITIES FOR WORSHIP

August 3 Eighth Sunday after Pentecost. Friendship Sunday. Esther Day. Green. Gen. 32:22-31; Ps. 17:1-7, 15 or (UMH 749); Rom. 9:1-5; Matt. 14:13-21 August 10 Ninth Sunday after Pentecost. Green. Gen. 37:1-4; Ps. 105:1-6, 16-22, 45b or (UMH 828) Rom. 10:5-15; Matt. 14:22-33

August 17 Tenth Sunday after Pentecost. Green. Gen. 45:1-15; Ps. 133 or (UMH 850); Rom. 11:1-2a, 29-32; Matt. 15:(10-20), 21-28

August 24 Eleventh Sunday after Pentecost. Green. Exod. 1:8-2:10; Ps. 124 or (UMH 846); Rom. 12:1-8; Matt. 16:13-20

August 31 Twelfth Sunday after Pentecost. Green. Exod. 3:1-15; Ps. 105:1-6, 23-26, 45c or (UMH 828); Rom. 12:9-21; Matt. 16:21-28

Sunday Worship Services at 10:30 AM in the Main SanctuaryAdult Sunday School meets at 9:15 AM in the Hand in Hand Room

Children’s Sunday School meets at 10:30 AM in the Community Room/NurseryChildren’s Moment on 2nd Sunday during 10:30 Worship

Communion will be served on Sunday, August 3rd

8:15 AM Worship Services in Boyer Chapel August 3 - Pastor Joey August 10 - Norman Kelsey August 17 - Patty Kelsey August 24 - Sandra Smith August 31 - Sandra Smith

Please have your articles for the Good News to the church office by August 17th for the September 2014 publication or email them to pattyfumc@gmail.com

If you no longer wish to receive this publication, please contact the church office or return this address label noting that we are to discontinue sending it. Thank you.

POSTMASTER - Please send changes of address to:First United Methodist Church of North Hollywood4832 Tujunga Avenue, North Hollywood, CA 91601