Pastor’s Reflections

The Second Act

       F. Scott Fitzgerald once wrote, “There are no second acts in American lives.” It sounds like the truth, and Fitzgerald is indeed one of our great writers and truth tellers, but it really doesn’t fit the facts. American history is full of second acts. Certainly among presidents we would have to include Abe Lincoln, Franklin Roosevelt, Teddy Roosevelt, Richard Nixon and Bill Clinton as persons who overcame devastating personal and political obstacles to revive their careers. There are notable athletes like Jack Nicklaus and Bill Bradley who have had great success once their playing days were over, and then there are those movie stars who fade and then brighten over and over again, like former child actor Mickey Rooney, who just recently passed away at the age of 93.

I imagine many of us are looking for our own second act – some way we can make a further contribution while still a resident of planet earth. This has never felt so clear to me as it has in my time here as a pastor at First United Methodist. The energy and adventurousness of our membership continues to impress me, and I am so very proud to be part of it.

The Christian church itself is a second act of sorts. After the resurrection Jesus appeared to his disciples and then, as we read in the first chapter of Acts, ascended bodily into heaven. We will celebrate Christ’s ascension on Sunday, June 1.  But that does not mean we are an historical religion, one that only looks back. Jesus did as he promised by sending his Holy Spirit to be with us, to bring forth the church, the so called “Body of Christ.” And over 2000 years later, we are still here. We are the “Second Act of Jesus Christ,” still going strong, and we will celebrate our collective birthday on Sunday, June 8.  I would ask we keep this in mind here in Middletown. Let’s use our past glories not for nostalgia and regret but as motivation to keep moving forward, finding new and creative ways to serve.

One further note, and it’s something I’m so pleased to announce, is that Rev. David Hilton is going to preach a sermon for us! David was admitted to Hospice care just a few months ago, but with his wife Mary Lois’s help he has become stronger, and strong enough to preach! The “Second Act of David Hilton” will take place on Sunday, June 15, the Sunday after Pentecost, also known as Trinity Sunday.

So, some important Sundays coming up:

•  Ascension Sunday, June 1: The color on the altar will be WHITE, which is indicative of heaven.
• Pentecost Sunday, June 8: Remember, this is the day for all of us to WEAR RED, to represent the flames that signified the birth of the church.
• Rev. David Hilton Preaching, June 15: David says he likes all colors, but his favorite color might be GREEN, which is coincidentally the color of new life.

Thanks so much for the last two years, and thanks for letting me play a role in your Second Act.

John Wagner

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Relay for Life: June 7 & 8

Please mark your calendars for RELAY FOR LIFE! This year the Monroe-Middletown RELAY will be held June 7^th and 8^th at the Middletown High School Track. The 18-hour event will begin with a survivor luncheon at 11am on Saturday (all survivors welcome), followed at 1pm by an incredible ceremony to celebrate cancer survivors. You’ll see plenty of tears and hear tons of cheers, as survivors walk the traditional first lap. Then it’s time for everyone to ‘get on the track.’ At dusk, a very moving Luminary Ceremony will honor and remember those who have fought this terrible disease. Continuous entertainment, games, theme laps, food, fellowship—and friends—will make RELAY a night full of fun, hope and remembrance.

This fun-filled 18-hour Walk/Run/Slumber Party promotes sportsmanship and good fellowship, while helping the American Cancer Society raise funds to help prevent cancer and save lives through research, education, advocacy, and patient services.

RELAY FOR LIFE would be a marvelous opportunity for the members of First United Methodist Church to join the Breast Cancer Support Group (The Broad Street Strollers) and spend some time together having fun, while helping fight the battle against cancer.

“Cancer never sleeps and neither will we until we find a cure.” RELAY teams will be walking all night long. Questions? Contact Dee Markle.

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All Ladies Invited!

Elizabeth Circle invites all  women of the church to a picnic on Monday, June 16 at 6:30pm @   Otterbein’s pavilion near the pond. Bring a vegetable, salad or dessert to share; chicken will be provided. If you’d like to carpool or need a ride, contact Belinda Hausman (513-423-0586 or 513-720-0586).

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Parking Lot Prompts…

Being downtown typically means that parking is sparse. We are accustomed to this as we come to church each Sunday and must find a place to park. In case you’re finding it harder to find a space lately, here’s a few reminders of the parking we have available to us.

First of all we have our own lot off of Second Ave. We want to remind you that we recently asked for those able to walk further to please leave our lot for those who need to park close and who need easy access to the ramp. Secondly there is plenty of public parking at the library, which doesn’t open until afternoon. Then there is the city lot adjacent to St. Paul’s United Church of Christ, on the north corner of our block; please be considerate about using St. Paul’s church lot as their attendees will be using it Sunday mornings, too. Lastly, Bethlehem Lutheran Church (just to our south) has always graciously allowed us to use the row of spaces along Second Ave. for our convenience, and their offer continues to be there for us. Let’s just please be conscientious of the rest of their lot being reserved for their Sunday morning parishioners.

Thank you for your cooperation and consideration.

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Mission Notes

The $5 on the 5^th offering for June will be designated for UMCOR. UMCOR (United Methodist Committee On Relief) is a ministry of the United Methodist Church, and their goal is to assist those whose lives have been affected by crisis. They provide humanitarian relief when war, conflict, or natural disaster disrupts life to such an extent that communities are unable to recover on their own.

UMCOR uses 100% of donations on the projects the donor specifies. For example, after an area has experienced a flood, UMCOR will provide cleaning buckets and health kits. Each kit is made with designated items. This is one of numerous ways they help when disaster strikes.

UMCOR cooperates with other aid organizations to extend our reach to those in need, and as we give we join UMCOR as the hands and feet of Christ. Give with a  heart full of gratitude for God’s blessing to us, each and everyday.

Submitted by Mary Jane Frazer on behalf of the Missions Committee

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June Sunday School

No doubt most of us remember the characters of Mayberry—Sherriff Andy Taylor, Barney Fife, Opie, Aunt Bee, Goober, and a host of other personalities on the Andy Griffith Show. Now, thanks to Netflicks, YouTube and other media, the younger folks are also familiar with the warmth and humor of Andy Griffith’s writing of this popular show. Since 2007, many churches have enjoyed learning and sharing together the modern parables found in the episodes of this show as a Bible Study Series. This summer we join those churches and are excited to offer “The Mayberry Bible Study.” Each Sunday School hour will have watch an episode of the show and have a discussion on topics such as service, peace, mercy, and commitment.

You won’t want to miss this interesting and enjoyable experience! It will be held in the Chapel beginning at 9:00! Get your coffee early and get a seat!

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Vacation Bible School

July 20 – 24

“God filled the world with a lot of crazy creatures…including you! When kids feel weird, different, or even lost in a crowd—nothing compares to the extraordinary love of Jesus.”

The VBS volunteers met for the first time in May to get general information on what this experience is going to be all about. You are invited to join us during the month of June while we make decorations to create desert, grassland, tundra and rainforest biomes. We need to make flowers, grass, weird plants, trees, animals, etc. Join us by making and donating anything that can be part of these environments. You can drop off your decorations at the church office or at Sunday worship. For more info on what to do, contact

Henry or Dani

Thanks and God bless you,

The VBS Team

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It’s Christmas?  In Nepal

Update from Dr. Les & Debbie Dornon, missionaries to Nepal working in the Tansen Hospital

 

Operation Christmas Child, the program through Samaritan’s Purse which sends shoeboxes filled with goodies to children around the world, came to Tansen recently! Some of you are probably aware that the Nepali calendar is different from the western one, so when we learned on April 8 of this year that many large cartons filled with shoe boxes had arrived in Tansen, we were thinking – “this is a bit late for Christmas!” But – then we realized that in the Nepali calendar, it was the 25^th day of the 12^th month of the year! How amazing is that?!

I was able to go to one of the schools for the distribution of the boxes – and it was so fun to watch the children open the boxes and see the toys, candy and other items which people from all over the U.S. had lovingly purchased and packed for children thousands of miles away. I know many of you have been part of this program in the past – thanks so much! It was a pleasure to be able to see it from the “other side.”

In Him,

लेस (Les) and देबी (Debbie)

P.S. To see more photos and stories, please check our blog: http://dornonnepalmission.wordpress.com/

Remember, every third Sunday of the month we collect donations to support Les and Debbie’s work in Nepal.

You may drop your donation in the collection jars or add it to your regular offering using your envelope; just write “Dornons” along with the designated amount.

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All-American Sing Along: Sunday, June 29^th at 4:00pm

Join us in the sanctuary for an afternoon of singing on June 29th at 4:00PM! Special guests will be Steve Stuhlbarg and Irina Bernadsky who performed the “Life of Irving Berlin” at May’s First Friday Concert.

Steve has created a special program with the history of many of our favorite American songs. There will be lots of audience participation, trivia, and some songs with organ and choir.

Join us afterward for an All-American Ice Cream Social! A free-will offering will be taken at this concert.

Questions? Contact Mary Ellen

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First Friday Concert Series 2014

JUNE 6 THE OXFORD ARTS TRIO

A little Vivaldi is perfect for the beginning of summer! Join this trio as they share a program of woodwind classics within the swirling acoustics of the sanctuary space.

JULY 11* US, TODAY (Concert scheduled July 11^th to observe July 4^th holiday.)

No, that’s not a typo! A band as unique as it’s name uses guitar, drums, and vibraphone in an avant-garde blend of jazz, rock, and minimalism. Described by CityBeat in Cincinnati as “redirecting the parameters of experimental jazz.”

This concert series wouldn’t be possible without the support of the Middletown Community Foundation, the Miriam G. Knoll Charitable Foundation, The Barnitz Fund and the congregation of First United Methodist Church, Middletown. Thank you! Thank you! Thank you for helping us make downtown Middletown a destination for the arts!

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Community Ministries Corner

Highview Happenings

The school year will have ended by the time you get this message. Our last events for Highview were providing popcorn for Family Movie Night, having a treat for the staff for Teacher Appreciation Week, and popping corn for Field Day  on the last day of school.

I am resigning as Chairperson of the Highview Ministry, but I will continue to be involved. Since we know of no one at this time who will be Chairperson, we have decided to use a different approach next year and ask different people to be in charge of the usual events we’ll be doing at Highview. This will be the fourth year of our Partnership with HSGC, so the events are easy to run, they just need a contact person.

Anyone interested in being involved is invited to our meeting on July 9, to prepare for the Open House Cook-out, which will be on August 11, 2014. I’m praying for members to come forward and volunteer to be a “Project Manager” for our Highview Ministry events.

Thank you, Lynda Goecke 

Emergency Food

The Emergency Food Program is always in need of donations, so please stop by one of the blue barrels in either the north or south hallways outside of the sanctuary and take a list of the items used. Please place all donations in the blue barrels.

Thank you!

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June Birthdays

2 Braden Dickson

3 Mavene Atkinson, Andrea Jutte

6 Carolyn Callis

11 Harold Byrd

13 Johnny Beagle, Charles Morgan

14 Catherine Brown

17 Shirley Fultz, Katey Shepperd

19 Leah Hogg

21 Glendon Markle

23 Dot Wieneke

24 Mary Alice Foy, Carole Jackson, Anne Sander

26 Dede Day, Aleta Truesdell

27 Justin Frazer, Norm Harsh

28 Katie McNeil

29 Tom Hazelbaker, Wilberta Schaefer

30 Susan Duff

 

 

Pastor’s Reflections

 

We Let Go

 

     Summer is practically on our doorstep, so here is a summer story.

     It was my first cross country trip with my daughter. OK, it wasn’t cross country – it was cross state, essentially a five hour trip, but it was just us. Just my daughter and I sharing sandwiches and conversation on the open road. I think she was three and a half.

 I was brand new to the dad business, and had often felt awkward. My wife brought two daughters with her when we married, and of course knew everything about diapers and bottles and bathing. I would make suggestions every now and then, but often I was quite incorrect. I like to think I took my corrections with good humor, but, you know.

The day finally came. We were on our own. We were going to Grandma’s, we had sandwiches, we had our juice boxes, we were relaxed, and we were doing our thing. We shared insights on the rural scene and talked about the merits of peanut butter vs. apples. It was great.

 Then, of course, those inevitable words in that unmistakable inflection: “Uh, Daddy …”

 I was certainly no stranger to this aspect of parenting. I had changed my share of diapers, and I was not nervous about that. But Anna didn’t wear diapers anymore. She was a big girl. She needed to use the restroom.

The fact this might pose a problem began to stir in my mind.

As I’ve said, it was summer – lots of travelers on the road, nearly all of them feeling the urge about the same time as my daughter. I remember it as if it were yesterday. Men were hustling in and out, the women’s line stretched out into the lobby, lots of noise, lots of perspiration, the place packed, everybody eager to move on, especially those women.

 And the two of us, taking it all in.

 Now some of you more freed-up types might not sympathize, but I simply couldn’t stand the thought of taking my precious little daughter into that den of hot sweaty men. Anna looked exactly like a girl, my little girl, and I couldn’t bear it. Not in there. Not with those guys.

 I began to search the faces of each woman who entered the roadside rest. I really didn’t have any criteria. I just looked into each face in the line, hoping I would know. Some of them looked back, and I can only   imagine how I appeared to them. Anna waited patiently, holding my hand, trusting me.

 I finally chose one. She was attractive, but not in the sense of calling attention to herself. She seemed calm, seemed nice. Maybe in her early to mid thirties.

 “Excuse me, I was wondering if you could help me …”

 I almost didn’t have to say another word. She understood immediately. Of course she would help take my daughter into the ladies room.

 “Her name is Anna,” I said.

 “Well hello, Anna,” she said, and she reached out a hand. “Will you come with me?”

 I’ll never forget Anna at that moment. She nodded her head gravely, squared her shoulders, bit her lip just the tiniest little bit, let go of my hand and put it into the hand of the stranger. My daughter was wearing a red and white dress. Her hair was short and very dark. She was the most beautiful thing I have ever seen, or ever would see, and someone I had just met was taking her away.

 And as it turned out, there was no back door to the restroom, no abduction. It did take immensely longer than I thought it should, but suddenly there she was, still holding the hand of the gracious stranger. I’m sure it all looked very normal and natural to any observer. I‘ll bet that nice young woman has forgotten all about it.

 But I’ll never forget.

 When the Spirit is close, and the need for God is clear, and the offer is unambiguous, this is how it feels. The best part of us, our heart, our life, will have to go into this mystery. We sense warmth and tenderness, but we also possess a fear, perhaps irrational, but we truly feel it. “What can I really know about this stranger?” we ask. “Can I actually afford to let go of that which is most precious to me, the deepest thing, the only truly beautiful thing I know?”

 “Do I have a choice?”

 We don’t have a choice — not really. It’s this or nothing. The stranger has a trustworthy face. Unless we can’t trust our instincts at all, there’s kindness and caring there. The hand is outstretched.

 And we let go.

John Wagner

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UMW’s Salad Luncheon, Baked Goods & Flower Sale – May 7

Tickets are available now for the United Methodist Women’s annual May Salad Luncheon, Flower & Bake Sale.  The UMW Salad Luncheon will be from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Wednesday, May 7, 2014, in Fellowship Hall. Tickets are $7 and can be purchased from the church office.

In preparation for the event, UMW is asking all church members to prepare one (or more) salads (12-16 servings) and their favorite baked goods. Proceeds benefit local organizations and UMW district special missions. For more information or to learn more about joining UMW call the church office, 513-423-4629.

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Annual Conference (June 8-11) Miracle Offering

The missional emphasis for the Annual Conference Session will again be Imagine No Malaria, a key component of The United Methodist Church’s Global Health Initiative. Last year the West Ohio Conference made a commitment to join together over the next few years in raising awareness and money for Imagine No Malaria, supporting its plan that is delivering hope to many devastated by malaria. The Imagine No Malaria offering will be received Tuesday morning of Annual Conference during worship.

If you’d like to designate a gift toward the Miracle Offering, just make your check payable to FUMC and write “Miracle Offering” on the other line of your envelope.

All gifts will be presented together at Annual Conference that are received by June 8.

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50 Days of Easter

Did you know the Easter Season isn’t over? While it’s okay to put away the bunnies and plastic Easter eggs, in the life of the Church, the Easter Season lasts for 50 days! This season, which is one of most joyous and celebrative seasons of the Christian year, begins on Easter Evening at sunset (known as the Easter Vigil) and ends on the Day of Pentecost. This 50 day season focuses on Jesus’ resurrection, ascension and on the gift of the Holy Spirit to the Apostles.

One of the great things about using the traditional Liturgical Calendar in worship planning, is that we account the life, events, and teachings of Christ each year, growing deeper and deeper into the understanding of what our response should be as followers of the Word.

Within this season is Ascension Sunday, celebrated the closest Sunday to 40 days after the resurrection (this year—June 1). On this day Jesus was taken up to heaven in His resurrected body in the presence of 11 of his disciples. This event is described fully in Acts 1:9-11 but can also be found in Mark and Luke. We profess the belief of this event in the Nicene and Apostles Creed (“He ascended into Heaven…”). The celebration of the Ascension has been a part of the church liturgical year since the 4^th century.

The next big celebration is Pentecost Sunday (this year—June 8), which occurs 50 days after Easter (“Pente” means 50 or fiftieth). We are more familiar with the symbolism of this Sunday here in our local congregation. On this Sunday, the Holy Spirit came to the disciples “in a rush of a mighty wind” and tongues of flames were over the disciples heads. Everyone who heard the Word of God was able to understand it in their own language. This event is also found in the Book of Acts. On this Sunday we like to wear red to represent the “flames” and we use imagery of wind and the Holy Spirit. Sometimes we like to read scripture in other languages. This is considered the “Birthday of the Church” because the disciples became filled with the Holy Spirit and began their ministry to the World.

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Vacation Bible School

July 20 – 24

6:00-8:00PM Nightly

Our first VBS meeting for those interested in volunteering in any way with VBS will be:

Thursday, May 8 at 6:30pm—

Please come find out the exciting plans for VBS this year! We need various volunteers to help with preparations before VBS, during the week, and after it’s over. There’s definitely something for YOU to do!

The Community Ministries Council plans to host a cookout for the community and families with children attending VBS. This will help kickoff the week on Sunday, July 20 at 4:00pm.

Please pray and consider how you might participate in these events. Contact Henry or Dani Folgoso or the church office with questions.

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Dangerous Heights Jesus In Nepal

Update from Dr. Les & Debbie Dornon, missionaries to Nepal working in the Tansen Hospital

Growing up in Ohio and Indiana, one expression I never heard was that “so and so fell out of his field!” Here in Nepal – it can happen and does often happen! When one field is 6 feet or so above the next one, accidents occur. Also, because in this dry season, there isn’t grass for animals to graze on, you will often see ladies or children climbing high into the tops of trees to cut out any remaining leaves or “fodder.” This is why Tansen Hospital has 3 full time fully trained orthopedic surgeons on our staff. Most of their work is related to trauma – people falling from trees or fields, or other accidents.

We are supposed to have three full time general surgeons also on staff here – but we will only have one for much of the next six months. Please pray for a general surgeon who would be willing to donate his or her time and efforts to the people in Nepal.

Thank you for your prayers for rain – we have had some nice rains which have helped the hospital to keep running! Please keep praying – we need about 40,000 liters of water per day for the hospital and compound area. The other day, the city water sent 169 liters. God sent us .5 inches – about 40,000 liters. It’s good we can place our trust in the one who owns all the resources we could ever need!

In Him,

लेस (Les) and देबी (Debbie)

P.S. To see more photos and stories, please check our blog: http://dornonnepalmission.wordpress.com/

Remember, every third Sunday of the month we collect donations to support Les and Debbie’s work in Nepal.

You may drop your donation in the collection jars or add it to your regular offering using your envelope; just write “Dornons” along with the designated amount.

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Music Notes by Mary Ellen Clinard

Combined Choir Takes Their Music On The Road

We have really been enjoying the high school students in our congregation this past year. They are always eager to participate in worship in a variety of ways and have been such a gift to all of us. In addition to singing in the Temple Choir, our young people all play at least one instrument—5 play the piano, 2 play the French horn, 2 also play percussion and one plays trumpet. We are truly blessed!!

This month, they will combine with the young people of First Presbyterian Church and sing a couple of anthems during the church service! On May 4^th the combined group will be singing the Anthem and the Offertory during our worship service and on May 18^th they will be singing at the Presbyterian Church.

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Children’s Moment

Six-year old Angie and her four-year old brother, Joel, were sitting together in church. Joe giggled, sang and talked out loud.

Finally, his big sister had had enough. “You’re not supposed to talk out loud in church.” “Why? Who’s going to stop me?” Joel asked.

Angie pointed to the back of the church and said, “See those two men standing by the door? They’re hushers.”

—Source Unknown

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First Friday Concert Series 2014

MAY 2 THE MUSICAL HISTORY OF IRVING BERLIN

Steven Stuhlbarg, of Cincinnati Klezmer Project, brings this brand-new program to First Fridays. Learn about American composer with Steven on guitar/vocals, and Irina Bernadsky on Ukrainian mandolin.

JUNE 6 THE OXFORD ARTS TRIO

A little Vivaldi is perfect for the beginning of summer! Join this trio as they share a program of woodwind classics within the swirling acoustics of the sanctuary space.

This concert series wouldn’t be possible without the support of the Middletown Community Foundation, the Miriam G. Knoll Charitable Foundation, The Barnitz Fund and the congregation of First United Methodist Church, Middletown. Thank you! Thank you! Thank you for helping us make downtown Middletown a destination for the arts!

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Community Ministries Corner

Whiz Kids Summer Camp

Thank you, First Church Congregation, for your generosity. Because of you at least eight children will be going to Camp this summer for a whole week! This is often a once in a lifetime opportunity for these kids. City Gospel Mission provides a $300 camp experience for just $25 each student for us. What a treat for our kids!

Highvew Partnership Ministry Update:

Highview Teachers & Staff Say “Thanks!”

We have received several notes and comments to thank First Church volunteers and congregation for the many blessings you have provided at Highview Sixth Grade Center this year. There’s not room for them all, but here’s a few to let you know the impact of your time & resources:

• We so appreciate all you do to support us and our students — Amy C.
• Thank you so much for your generosity — Stephanie N.
• Always appreciate the way you serve the Lord — Angie R.
• Thank you for all you do for our school.  First United is the best! — Barb F.
• We are blessed to have you in our lives! — Cathy H.
• You are wonderful!  Thank you so much for thinking of us — Candy P.
• You make me remember why I teach! — Kimm C.
• As always, your support really brightens my heart.

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May Birthdays

1  Lynn Benoy

4 Jacob Halsey, Pat Jenkins

6 Marcy Andrews, Shirley Fields

7 Pat Bolin, Judy Thorn

8 Adam Wilson

11 Luke Dornon

13 Bill Pratt

14 Peggy Kramer, Rebecah Symon

18 Daisy Byrum (turning 101!)

19 Brenda Byrd, Jim Gayhart, Mark Mills, Don Youtsler

20 Mary Nichols

21 Andrew Clinard

22 Vickie Frazer

25 Dee Young

26 Marlene Bradley, Tammy White

28 Mabel Borders, Becky Douthett

29 Marian McGuire

Pastor’s Reflections

Be Blessed!

 

“Hope Springs Eternal!”

I’ve employed that quote, consciously or unconsciously, most of my life. It works for me because it describes the way I feel when I once again anticipate the future after being down in the dumps. “Hope Springs Eternal!” I say.

Not long ago I happened upon these words in their original context. Turns out they come from Alexander Pope, a major English poet of the 18^th century. His poem, “An Essay on Man,” takes a darker turn than one might expect:

“Hope springs eternal in the human breast:

Man never is, but always to be blest:

The soul, uneasy and confined from home,

Rests and expatiates in a life to come.”

I hear him saying we never really feel blessed now, today, this moment. Our beleaguered souls are always waiting for something better, like a better job, or retirement, or heaven. The “life to come,” as he puts it, is always something more desirable than the present. I don’t think the poet recommends this way of life; he is simply describing what he sees in others and in himself. We are people forever waiting “to be” blest. A rather sad commentary.

Like many others I suppose I do tend to live for tomorrow, for better days ahead. I dream of that Sunday when the church is full, or the kids all finally settled and successful. It’s natural. Then again, every so often, something calls my attention to what’s happening in the present. I’m barely conscious of it, which is probably as it should be. I’m not analyzing, not judging, not wishing I was someplace else. I feel blessed in being right here, right now. One of our church members recently shared this quote: “I’m beginning to suspect that the moment we’ve been waiting for doesn’t require waiting.” Well put!  Easter is coming up soon, just a few weeks away now. I urge you to be with us here at First United Methodist, or with some other group of Christians, as we gather to commemorate the great victory of Jesus Christ over death. I ask also that we remember that Jesus wasn’t just about giving us hope for a future in heaven, but also about giving us a new hope of life in the present. “Eternal Life,” in other words, is not only living forever but living right now, feeling blessed right now. It’s about experiencing God working in this very moment of, say, a conversation with a friend, or noticing a bird in flight, or feeling a warm breeze on our cheek.

I know we can’t help talking about and living for what’s to come. It’s both necessary and very human. But we can, with God’s help, also live today. And that, I think, is the essence of our faith and our life in Christ.

Be Blessed!

John

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Holy Week Schedule

Holy Thursday, April 17, 7:00pm

Taize Service, Prayer & Music

Good Friday, April 18, 3:00pm

Focusing on the Crucifixion

Easter Sunday, April 20

8:15am Sunrise Service, Begins outside around the fountain on the south side of the church, then proceed to Sanctuary for Communion

9:15am Breakfast, Served in the Weatherwax Commons

10:30am Worship Service, In the Sanctuary with Brass & Timpani

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Fellowship Breakfasts: Last Saturday Each Month @ 8:00AM

For Men:

On February 22 we met at Dad’s for a fellowship breakfast and there were 22 of us! Email reminders seem to be helpful! I’m happy to email or call to remind you, just let me know what you prefer (Dave Balsmeyer 513-422-8928).

Our next meeting is March 29 at 8:00AM at Dad’s; please plan to come. Bring a friend. We can still use the coupons Dad’s puts in the paper to get 50% off your friend’s meal. So clip them out and bring some.

For Women:

Mug ‘n Muffin meets at Java Johnny’s. It’s a great time of fellowship and sharing our stories. All women are welcome. Call Barb Balsmeyer (422-8928) if you’d like to be placed on the e-mail reminder list.

We hope you’ll join us monthly! Next Meeting: Saturday, April 26

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25¢ Club

Last fall the Missions Committee started the “25¢ Club.” We are taking up and supporting The United Methodist Church in fighting malaria in Africa. Malaria is found in all parts of the world, from Sicily to the Horn of Africa and throughout the Pacific.

I have seen young men in perfect health one minute to uncontrolled shaking the next. Imagine No Malaria is an extraordinary effort of The United Methodist Church, putting our faith into action to end preventable deaths by malaria in Africa. We cannot take on the whole world, but we can begin by using our “25¢ Club” as a starting point.

Please join with the Committee and support this effort by dropping your quarters in the collection plate. We are not asking for anything but quarters.

Thank you,

Frank Richmond for the Missions Committee

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Easter Flower Order Forms are Available Through the Church Office. Deadline to Order is April 6. Please contact the office for assistance.

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UMW May Salad Luncheon, Baked Goods & Flower Sale—May 7

Spring is here so let’s take out our recipes and start plans for the United Methodist Women’s Annual May Salad Luncheon. The UMW Salad Luncheon will be on Wed, May 7 from 11am-1pm, in Fellowship Hall. All church members are asked to prepare one (or more) salads (12-16 servings), and their favorite baked goods. Church members who want to try a new recipe will find one in the UMW Cookbook, which went on sale last year. A few copies are still available for $10 each through the UMW.

Tickets for the luncheon are $7 and can be purchased from the church office. Proceeds benefit local organizations and UMW district special missions. For more information or to learn about    joining UWM call the church office, 513-423-4629.

You’ll find a UMW May Salad Luncheon Flower Sale Order Form enclosed and extra copies are available at church. To have your flowers available for pick up on May 6 or May 7 you must order by Noon on Wednesday, April 16. Order forms must be returned to:

Betty Moles (513-424-3922) or Rose Morgan (513-422-4631)

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Getting to Know Jesus In Nepal

Update from Dr. Les & Debbie Dornon, missionaries to Nepal working in the Tansen Hospital

Mithu (pronounced like “me too”) has been a nurse here at Tansen hospital for many years.  She is quite senior – serving as one of the supervisors.  She and her husband live near the hospital lower gate – almost directly under the large sign proclaiming, “We serve, Jesus heals.”  Her son did his residency here, and now is in China getting certified in surgery.  Her daughter is married and living in Australia.  Mithu had a good life.  Until – it was discovered that she had cervical cancer, and it was already advanced. (Pap smears are not widely available in Nepal and are not part of regular medical care.)  So, Mithu had to undergo chemotherapy and radiation treatments which are not available here in Tansen – traveling to another city in Nepal for this.  (At one point the radiation machine was broken, so she had to wait an extra week.) Many of us have been praying regularly for Mithu.  This morning, we were very pleased to have Mithu at our church service.  We don’t remember her ever coming before.  After the service, she came up to the front and was in tears as she thanked people for their prayers.  Even though she is not completely out of the woods, we were thankful that God has used this difficult time in her life to show her the love and healing of Jesus Christ.  Sometimes you can hear the truth and know about Jesus – but now we are praying that she will really KNOW Jesus.

 

 

In Him,

लेस (Les) and देबी (Debbie)

P.S. To see more photos and stories, please check our blog: http://dornonnepalmission.wordpress.com/

Remember, every third Sunday of the month we collect donations to support Les and Debbie’s work in Nepal.

You may drop your donation in the collection jars or add it to your regular offering using your envelope; just write “Dornons” along with the designated amount.

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Music Notes by Mary Ellen Clinard

Miserere Mei Deus

On Maundy Thursday (April 17 @ 7pm), a small ensemble from the Temple Choir will be singing an excerpt from “Miserere Mei Deus” (Have Mercy on Me, O God) by Gregorio Allegri as part of the candlelight worship service. This chant-like piece was written in 1638 for the Good Friday Service at the Sistine Chapel in the Vatican. It has been sung there every year since! Until 1770, it was not allowed to be written down and only the Vatican choir could sing it. As a matter of fact, if it was sung anywhere else, those people faced ex-communication from the Church!

In 1770, however, a young boy was in the audience and had the skill to write the notes and words down. He took it to his home church and they sang it the next year. It was quite a serious scandal! The Pope got wind of the infraction and sent for the young boy. But instead of ex-communicating him, he praised him for allowing this beautiful song to be shared with the masses! The name of the boy?

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart!

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Choralfest 2014

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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First Friday Concert Series 2014

APRIL 4 BACCHANAL STEEL DRUMS

A First Friday favorite, this Caribbean ensemble entertains and educates with calypso, soca, reggae, and pop, all played on instruments made from 55-gallon drums. Now that’s what we call recycling!

MAY 2 THE MUSICAL HISTORY OF IRVING BERLIN

Steven Stuhlbarg, of Cincinnati Klezmer Project, brings this brand-new program to First Fridays. Learn about American composer with Steven on guitar/vocals, and Irina Bernadsky on Ukrainian mandolin.

This concert series wouldn’t be possible without the support of the Middletown Community Foundation, the Miriam G. Knoll Charitable Foundation, The Barnitz Fund and the congregation of First United Methodist Church, Middletown. Thank you! Thank you! Thank you for helping us make downtown Middletown a destination for the arts!

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Community Ministries Corner

Helping Those In Need

One of the things the Community Ministry Council does is oversee expenditures from the Benevolent Fund. What is the Benevolent Fund? This is a fund that is used to assist individuals/families in our community who find themselves in need. The needs vary. In the past year we assisted with rent, utility bills, medicine, gasoline and even lunch for a hungry homeless man.

Rev. Wagner and Jaime Albaugh make the primary decisions on all payouts from the fund. They try to work closely with case workers and others familiar with the situations of those in need. Where does the money for this fund come from? The proceeds from the garage sale the church holds once every few years goes into this fund. The UMW donated to the fund and the rest comes from individual donors with a heart for those in need.

Is it making a difference? Here is just one thank you note sent to us from Joy Carothers who works at Rosa Parks Elementary for the Butler County Success Program:

 

 

 

 

 

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April Birthdays

1  Kathy Larison

2 Sharyn Edelen, Patricia Livzey

3 Lorena Trinkle

6 Dave Balsmeyer, Mary Ittel

12 J.C. Shew

13 Betty Risner

14 Eleanor Imhoff, Sarah Irwin

15 Anita Shew

16 Alex Wieneke

18 Michael McDaniel

20 Elois Duff

21 Pat Bowman

25 Debbie Taylor

26 Don Beasley

27 Gene Keister

29 Bob Duffey

30 Evelyn Hudson

Pastor’s Reflections

Something Deeper

Before she went back to work my wife would occasionally turn on an afternoon soap opera, just for some company. If I was home I’d sometimes find myself watching it too, but I didn’t watch for very long. I’d eventually get too irritated at the inertia of the characters, their “stuckness” in their personal problems. They’d talk on and on, over and over, about difficulties with spouses or friends or children or jobs, and all their various jealousies or resentments. There was never any real resolution, never any way out, never any going anywhere. Even the doctors, whom you’d think would have some professional responsibilities, never seemed to practice actual medicine but would talk and complain about this or that personal situation all day long. Their lives seemed a kind of hell, like being on some human hamster wheel expending all this energy and never getting anywhere.

Sometimes I would shout out loud, “Why don’t you people just go to church?” JoAnn can testify that I actually said this. I meant it then and still mean it.

Friends, I admit going to church is not the perfect solution to every problem. I admit it doesn’t strictly equate to a relationship with Christ, and I suppose for some people it can even be an escape, and for still others a kind of soap opera all its own – Lord knows some churches are just that. But for most us church is where we get out of our own heads, out of our own endless loops, and start thinking about others and about God, and that’s usually a very healthy thing. I strongly recommend it and suggest you recommend it, too.

The season of re-examination and renewal we call Lent is fast approaching. It starts with Ash Wednesday, this year on March 5, and lasts for forty days. Often it’s during this time of year that people once again consider going to church. They have come to suspect they really are on a kind of hamster wheel, possibly going nowhere, and are in fact longing for something more meaningful for themselves and their loved ones. They are, in other words, open to trying something new.

 If you encounter such persons, please consider saying something like this:

 “You know, this may not be the answer for you, but I find I get something out of going to church. The people are not perfect, the sermon isn’t always on target, and sometimes I do wish I’d slept in … but for the most part I get a lot out of being with other people who care, who are trying to make a difference. They are searching for something deeper and more significant, and it helps me to be around people like that. If you’d like to try it sometime, let me know, we can go together. No obligation.”

Like I said, church attendance in and of itself is not the be all end all. We all have to keep growing, and if you already attend church, think about adding something else that might bring God more fully into your life. I will be attempting to fast the first week of Lent. I have done this before, and have some health guidelines I follow, so I’m not too worried abut it … but I like company. If you’d like to try it, let me know, and I can explain how I’ve found it to be meaningful and safe. Same goes for any other discipline you may wish to try — regular devotions, a service opportunity, small group Bible study. Talk to me or someone you trust, and take the next step toward a deeper faith.

 I consider Lent a time for us to challenge ourselves, challenge others, come to grips with God’s love and purpose for our lives. It can also be fun and refreshing. Let’s consider a happy and holy Lent this year.

–John

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Adult Sunday School During Lent

We have asked persons on our church staff to help us with our Lenten Study.

Please join us in the Chapel each Sunday at 9:00am

• March 9, Henry Folgoso: “Lent as a Christian Tradition: Answering Your Questions”
• March 16, Debbie Taylor: “Our Ministry to the Poor: What Can or Should be Given?”
• March23, Mary Ellen Clinard : “The Story of Christ Expressed in Music”
• March30, Dani Ortega de Folgoso: “Sharing the Sacred Story with Children”
• April 6, Greg Cooper: “The Church Building as a Gift from God: How is it Being Used and Cared For?”
• April 13, John Wagner : “The Cross and its Meaning”

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Choralfest 2014

FUMC is one of nine children’s choirs participating in Choralfest on March 8^th at Christ’s Church (Western Row Rd) in Mason. The children are there all day practicing, meeting new friends, and even folk-dancing. The guest director, Mark Patterson, is a prolific writer of children’s anthems; in fact all the pieces sung that day have been composed or arranged by him.

This year’s participants are Savannah Albaugh, Erin Dyke, Isabella Folgoso-Ortega, and Mackenzie Rutledge. The worship service featuring the children singing is at 4:00PM. We thank First Church for sponsoring us!

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Historical Committee News

The Historical Committee is in the process of sorting through hundreds of photos and news articles saved in boxes dating back to the 1960’s. As you can imagine most of these articles have no identification for date, activity or persons involved. We plan on putting those articles that can be identified into scrap books.

All articles that cannot be identified will be made available to the Congregation. Every couple of weeks a new stack of articles will be made available in the Weatherwax Commons area for anyone who would like to have them. Feel free to sort through these articles and take what you want. You never know you may just find an old photo of yourself. These articles will also be available in Fellowship Hall during our Pot Luck Dinner on March 2^nd.

The Committee would also like to start saving photos and clippings of Special Church Events and make them into “Annual First Church Happenings” scrap books. We will need the help of our Church Leaders and Congregation to make this happen. You can submit photos and articles to any Historical Committee Member throughout the year.

We do ask that you follow what we call the “Four W” rules:

1) What was the event?

2) Where was the event?

3) When was the event?

4) Who? (Name of all persons in the photos).

All articles to be considered for the scrap books must contain this information.

All articles will be used at the discretion of the Committee and are not returnable.

The Historical Committee: Tom Atkinson, Don Burley, Donna Burley, Carol Byrd, Harold Byrd, Dee Markle & Linda Snyder.

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2014 Church Officers

Council Chair… John Hoffman

Council Secretary… Dave Balsmeyer

Lay Leader… Mary Maurer

Lay Delegates… David & Dee Young

Treasurer… Linda Snyder

Co-Treasurer… Gene Goecke

Committee… Chairperson:

Education… TBD

Worship… Mary Ellen Clinard

SPRC… Sally Jo Inwood

Trustees… Harold Byrd

Finance… Ron McGuire

Investments… Tom Hazelbaker

UMW… Tammy White

UMM… David Balsmeyer

CMC… Patty McGraw

Member Care… John Hoffman

Missions… TBD

Hispanic Ministries…Henry & Dani Folgoso

Historica…l Tom Atkinson

Memorial… TBD

Library… Anita Shew

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Always On A Mission

Cookie Walks…Salad Luncheons….Cookbooks… Circle Meetings……these are what much of our congregation can tell you about what First UMC’s United Methodist Women’s (UMW) group does with their time and talents. But did you know that our UMW is actually a part of the largest denominational faith organization in the WORLD? Over 800,000 members and growing!!

Thanks to mission-oriented activities that we all love—cookies at Christmas and delicious salads in the Spring—our UMW has donated thousands of dollars to local and world-wide missions. The worldwide UMW donates over $20 million dollars each year!

On Sunday, March 9^th we will celebrate these remarkable women with UMW Sunday. We enjoy the participation of women in our service on a weekly basis, but this Sunday, UMW ladies will participate in all areas of worship as ushers and greeters, offering prayers and scripture, and leading the service. Rev. Carrie Jena will be offering the message. The UMW this year is focusing on building projects that support the programs of women, children, and youth.

In 2014, the Prayer and Self-Denial offering will go towards “Sound Foundations, Sound Missions,” a program that helps with the renovating, expanding and greening of buildings that house the critical work of National Mission Institutions and historically related international institutions. These institutions, founded by United Methodist Women and their forbearers more than 100 years ago, include community centers, domestic violence and homeless shelters, and children’s homes, schools, colleges and universities.

Special giving envelopes will be available during worship on March 9^th.

One hundred percent of the offering goes directly to these missions.

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FUMC Hosting:

SHALOM Homeless Shelter March 16-23

To date, 72 individuals have been blessed by the participating churches. The turnover has been good this year, indicating that many of our guests have found accommodations! We pray for the remaining folks to find housing before the season ends March 23. Please plan to assist with this program during the week of the 16th if you are willing and able. John Tack (513:855-3534) will have the sign-up board in the lobby soon.

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Safety In Nepal

Update from Dr. Les & Debbie Dornon, missionaries to Nepal working in the Tansen Hospital

We have a “security officer” located at UMN headquarters in KTM. He keeps us informed of political doings, and other issues and problems around the country. Today, this was one of the notices in his email:

06 February: 14 people were killed and 7 others injured when a bus they were travelling in skidded 300 meters down off the road at Chidipani VDC this morning. Injured people are undergoing treatment at Palpa Mission Hospital and Lumbini Medical College.

This is an all too frequent occurrence in Nepal these days, but this one was very close to home. This bus went off the side of the mountain from one of the roads we use every time we go to Pokhara. Several of the injured were brought here to our hospital (referred to as Palpa Mission Hospital – Palpa is the district name).

Another notice read:
Chitwan: 06 February, a man from Gardi VDC was killed by an elephant while he was sleeping in his house on Wednesday night.

Wow – how can I guard against this??? Very sad – and fortunately not so common!

Finally:

 06 February: Nepal Electricity Authority has decided to increase the weekly power cuts by four more hours. There will be 84 hours power cut in a week effective from 09 February.

We are glad we don’t live in the big cities where there will soon be 12 hours daily of power cuts. We still have unexpected cuts here with rare long outages, but living with the cuts daily is so difficult for our friends in KTM and other cities.

Thanks for your love and prayers! We miss you all.

In Him,

लेस (Les) and देबी (Debbie)

P.S. To see more photos and stories, please check our blog: http://dornonnepalmission.wordpress.com/

Remember, every third Sunday of the month we collect donations to support Les and Debbie’s work in Nepal.

You may drop your donation in the collection jars or add it to your regular offering using your envelope; just write “Dornons” along with the designated amount.

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Music Notes by Mary Ellen Clinard

A Little About Lent

The holy season of Lent begins on Ash Wednesday, March 5^th and continues until Holy Week beginning on April 13^th. You will discover that some elements of our worship experience will change as we observe this time of reflection, self-denial, and renewed commitment to our faith. Instead of a time of somberness, I like how Rev. Wagner views Lent….. A vigorous and joyful time to strengthen the health of our faith—a “back to basics” approach to what we believe as Christians. We hope that you will make a commitment for the 6 Sundays of Lent to attend Sunday School and worship in anticipation of the glorious resurrection of Jesus Christ.

Ash Wednesday Service: Wednesday, March 5^th 7:00pm in the Sanctuary

Soup, Sandwiches & Singing: March 16^th

Immediately after church join us in Fellowship Hall to explore some of the little-known hymns in our United Methodist Hymnal. There’s lots of great music that we don’t sing yet and this is a special opportunity to learn more about the expanse of hymns available to us during worship. Come enjoy a good lunch and some singing! It would help greatly in our planning if you would call the office and let us know you are attending!

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First Friday Concert Series 2014

MARCH 7 CEOH MOHR CELTIC BAND

One of the most popular Celtic Bands in southwest Ohio joins us with music from the British Isles. Just in time for St. Patrick’s celebrations.

APRIL 4 BACCHANAL STEEL DRUMS

A First Friday favorite, this Caribbean ensemble entertains and educates with calypso, soca, reggae, and pop, all played on instruments made from 55-gallon drums. Now that’s what we call recycling!

This concert series wouldn’t be possible without the support of the Middletown Community Foundation, the Miriam G. Knoll Charitable Foundation, The Barnitz Fund and the congregation of First United Methodist Church, Middletown. Thank you! Thank you! Thank you for helping us make downtown Middletown a destination for the arts!

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Community Ministries Corner

Thank You!

The United Methodist Women (UMW) have been faithful supporters of the outreach ministries of FUMC for many years now.

The Community Ministries Council (CMC) would like to thank you for your 2014 monetary donations to the Pantry ($550), the Breakfast Club ($300), the Benevolent Fund ($550), Whiz Kids ($350) and Shalom ($1100). We give you a standing ovation for your generosity!

We also want to say thank you to everyone in the FUMC family who continue to contribute in any way, whether through donations of time, money, goods or all three, to the ministries represented by the CMC.

We know these gifts represent a sacrifice on everyone’s part and we pray that each of you will share in the joy of knowing you are serving the One who gave His all for you!

—Community Ministries Council

The Highview Annual Supply Drive ended Feb 14 with the delivery of 36 bags full of materials the staff can use for their students the rest of the year. Many thanks to all of you who were able to help with donations of supplies or money. The staff was thrilled and appreciative. We will be helping with quarterly awards again, and the Annual Field Day at the end of the year. Thanks you for all your support for this ministry.  

—Highview Ministry Team

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March Birthdays

2 Bob Bradley, Beth Miller, Becki Roof

4 Barbara Dillon

6 Michael Alderton, Laura (Alderton) Griffin

7 Max Grandey

8 Joyce Boyd, Dave McGraw, Neal Walke

10 Ellen Pratt

12 David Morgan

13 Mary Maurer

14 James Irwin, Patty McGraw

16 Scott Tucker

17 Breanne Dickson

18 Greg Cooper’s 60^th!!

19 Ron McGuire, Alma Taulbee

20 Dick Roof

23 Tom Atkinson, Jean Stamper

24 Shiela Bailey, Marcille Weatherwax

27 Barbara Orth

28 Shelley McDaniel

30 Pat Ickes

31 Lon Fairchild

Pastor’s Reflections

 

A Letter from Rev. David Hilton

Dear First Church Family,

I am writing this letter at the invitation of our pastor. I address you as ‘family’ because we are brothers and sisters. My sudden disappearance on November 6th has created some confusion. Rev. Wagner has been appropriately guarded in sharing information.

I am reminded of a quotation attributed to Mark Twain who said, “The report of my death has been grossly exaggerated.” But my life has changed dramatically. I can assure you that I am fully alive with some limitations. I did not retire. I resigned. Ministry is a lifelong calling from which none of us ever retire.

The Pastor’s Reflections in the January Ambassador sound like a eulogy. I really can’t improve upon it. If I didn’t have so much respect for the intelligence and integrity of our pastor, I would deny its authenticity. Thank you, John, for this and for your frequent phone calls and visits.

Nearly three months ago our pastor, who noted my increased breathing difficulty, insisted on taking me to the hospital. My shortness of breath and fatigue had been attributed to atrial fibrillation. Extensive testing at the hospital revealed interstitial lung disease.

Following five weeks in the hospital and transitional care, I am at home. Dependent upon oxygen full time, I have a 25-foot range of motion. Mary Lois and hospice offer compassionate care. I do not experience pain. My appetite has returned. I read, write and am completing several projects. Our children and grandchildren were here for Thanksgiving and Christmas.

Strangely and wonderfully, I am more fully alive than ever. I experience comfort and peace. I am still learning, growing and sharing. I am filled with joy and gratitude.

Thank you for so many expressions of concern, support and prayer. It is not possible to acknowledge each of these personally. I do miss you and think of you often. I have the telephone nearby and am open to visits. We are comforted by the love and support of First Church and our Otterbein community.

Life is a gift of love to be fully lived and generously shared. My prayer is that we will all continue to share in the ministry entrusted to us when we were named and claimed in our baptism.

Blessings of love, joy and peace be with you always.

David

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Getting To Know You…

For more than 50 years, Herman and Mary Emmert faithfully served churches in Indiana and Ohio.

Herman was born in Muncie, Indiana, in 1931, to Alfred and Elizabeth Emmert. His father was a former coal miner who received a call to ministry at 36. Herman’s childhood was spent in Marion, Indiana, where his father was the pastor of First United Brethren Church.

“My parents let us (he and sister Ruth) be regular kids, even if we were preacher’s kids,” said Herman. “The only time I ever felt imprisoned was when I had go to Sunday night services and prayer meetings.”

The family later moved to Brazil, Indiana, where Herman graduated from high school. He then went on to Indiana Central College in Indianapolis and then United Theological Seminary in Dayton.

It was while Herman was a senior at Indiana Central that he met Mary LaFollette.

Mary was born in New Salisbury, Indiana, on October 2, 1931, to Earl and Ary LaFollette. Her father worked on the railroad and her mother was a teacher . Mary’s three older brothers all became doctors, while Mary’s interests were in music.

She played the piano and sang all through high school and at church. After high school she went to Indiana University, where she majored in piano and minored in voice. She received a teaching degree and later taught music in the Indianapolis school system.

In 1952, Mary took a summer job directing the choir at a church in Georgetown, Indiana. The pastor, Alfred Emmert, was so impressed with Mary that he wrote his son, Herman, and told him he had better spend his vacation at home so he could meet a very special girl.

Herman and Mary did end up meeting that summer, and the special music the Sunday they met was a solo sung by Mary, “Hold Thou My Hand,” which was also the special music on their last Sunday before retirement from Middletown First UMC in 1996.

“We only saw each other every couple of weeks because we were both still in college,” said Herman. “It wasn’t enough, but we wrote lots of letters.”

A year later, on August 2, 1953, when they had both graduated from college, they were married.

In 1953 Herman began his seminary training, commuting to Dayton from Indianapolis while Mary kept her teaching job. Herman also served as a student pastor at Amity EUB, and during his ministry there, the church grew from 33 to 99 in attendance and the pastor’s position went from part-time to full-time. Their oldest child, Mark, was born there in 1956.

In 1957, following Herman’s ordination, they were appointed to Broadway EUB Church in Indianapolis where their second child, Michael, was born.

“Mary directed a city choir while we were there,” said Herman. “She had real musical talent.”

But Mary also had a stroke in 1959 while they were serving Broadway. Following the stroke she underwent serious surgery, months of unconsciousness, two and a half years of physical and occupational therapy and two years of speech therapy.

For two years Herman had his hands full dealing with Mary’s recovery, two small children, a church and Saturday night threatening phone calls from the John Birch Society, that was very strong in Indianapolis.

In 1961, he got a call from Cincinnati’s district superintendent offering him Mt. Healthy EUB Church, a strong congregation which became 400 attending.

“I took the church and was happy to leave Indianapolis,” said Herman.

The Emmerts stayed in Cincinnati until 1972, when they left for Glenwood UMC in Columbus. By that time, Mark and Michael were in 10^th and 8^th grade and didn’t want to go, but both did well in Columbus, said Herman. After seven years in Columbus, Herman accepted an appointment at Monroe Street UMC in Toledo.

“By then, we loved Glenwood and didn’t want to leave,” said Herman. “Every move has been a struggle.”

In 1985, Herman became District Superintendent of the Dayton North District and every Sunday attended one of the 69 churches he supervised, always unannounced.

“In the fall during charge conference time, Mary hardly saw me at all,” he said.

After six years as a DS, Herman was appointed to Middletown First, a prestigious appointment.

“I chose Middletown even though there were other choices,” said Herman. “We had been in big cities the whole time and wanted to be in a smaller situation.”

Both Herman and Mary loved Middletown, but during their time here, Mary began to have more health problems connected to the stroke.

Following Herman’s “retirement” in 1996, he worked in Admissions and taught some classes at United Theological Seminary, served as an interim pastor for 11 months at a Cincinnati church and took a position as a visiting pastor at Anderson Hills UMC for seven years.
“In 2006 we moved to Otterbein Lebanon and I really retired,” he said. “But I still preach when I’m asked.”

The Emmerts’ two children both live in Ohio. Michael is controller at a company in Mason and Mark is a deputy in Columbus. The Emmerts have two grandchildren, Ashley and Amy, and two great-grandchildren, Braden and Ethan.

“Mary was a beautiful wife and mother,” said Herman. “Her spirit is strong. She’s been through a lot and still has a great spirit.”

 by JoAnn Wagner

This article is one in a series of interviews with various long-time church members we are featuring. We hope you enjoy getting to know them a little bit better.

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College & Military Care Packages This Month!

Baking Reminder

*Cookies needed Feb 23*

Those who plan to make cookies for the “Care Packages for College Students & Military “ should mark your calendar to bake and bring cookies in on Feb 23 (boxes will be packed that day then shipped).

We are asking for you to bake cookies that are small to medium in size (2” or less) and the quantity should be (8) baggies of (6) cookies each; the size & quantity is important as boxes only allow so much space and we wish the cookies to make it in one piece. Please contact the church office to let us know that you will be baking so we can make sure there is enough for all the packages.

Please contact the office or Imogene Orts for questions or to help with this outreach.

Care Package Update

Please provide current college/military addresses to the church office this month to help us prepare for the mailing of care packages to your loved ones!

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A Good Mystery and A New Year’s Resolution

Join me to discover what lurks in our church library. As one of your new year’s resolutions, expand your horizons with a journey to Afghanistan and the story of the Dressmaker of Khair Khana, who with her sisters created a dressmaking business in their home during the Taliban rule (A UMW Education for Mission book). Spend a few hours perusing the other inspirational, historical and devotional materials in our library—help me sort, update and reorganize these books. Follow up on William Sloan Coffin, whom Rev. Wagner mentioned on a recent Sunday.

Or send suggestions of new books, websites, CD’s, etc. you have found that are part of your spiritual growth and devotional life.

Calling all interested library lovers!

Contact your new library coordinator, Anita Shew

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Food In Nepal

Update from Dr. Les & Debbie Dornon, missionaries to Nepal working in the Tansen Hospital

Now I want to find out who is reading these articles….does anyone remember what DalBhat is? I wrote briefly about it in a previous story. Anyone? That’s okay! I don’t remember most things these days. (Now what was I going to say??) HA! We just enjoyed a wonderful 3 weeks with Luke, Laura and Rachel here in Tansen. One thing we did together every day in Tansen was eat Dal Bhat!

Dal is a type of lentil sauce, and Bhat is cooked rice. Here is a picture of the wonderful meal that our house helper prepared for us each day. Let me try to describe it in words. It would be much better if you could taste and smell it, as well….

Starting at the 12 o’clock position on the plate, there is the “tarakari” or curried vegetables. (This day it was cauliflower, with a few green beans and tomatoes). At 1 o’clock are “pokora” (shredded veggies in gram flour and egg batter, deep fried). 3 o’clock is “moulah” (giant white radish with a sesame seed and spices flavoring), then “green achar” (spicy cilantro flavored sauce). At 6 o’clock is the Tansen specialty called “chukaune” – like a potato salad with yoghurt, spices and turmeric; then “red achar” – tomato, ginger and garlic spiced sauce, and finally, “saag” – a type of green leafy vegetable made delicious with tomatoes, onion, garlic and spices. In the middle is the rice covered with the dal sauce. YUM! (Or as my kids say, Nom nom…) Happy New Year and good eating!

In Him,

लेस (Les) and देबी (Debbie)

P.S. To see more photos and stories, please check our blog: http://dornonnepalmission.wordpress.com/

Remember, every third Sunday of the month we collect donations to support Les and Debbie’s work in Nepal. You may drop your donation in the collection jars or add it to your regular offering using your envelope; just write “Dornons” along with the designated amount.

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Music Notes by Mary Ellen Clinard

The Bells Are Back!

We are starting rehearsals for handbells beginning TODAY, January 19^th 4:00 pm in the Music Office.  We will play in worship on March 2^nd.   This is a great time to explore handbells and give glory to God through music.   You don’t have to be able to read music to play handbells but it helps a little.  We welcome anyone from junior high on up!  The “Choir Door” (as you are looking at the church from the back, the door on the far right hand side) will be unlocked. 

Soup, Sandwiches & Singing: March 16^th

Immediately after church on February 23^rd, join us in the Fellowship Hall to explore some of the little-known hymns in our United Methodist Hymnal.  There’s lots of great music that we don’t sing yet and this is a special opportunity to learn more about the expanse of hymns available to us during worship.  Come enjoy a good lunch and some singing!   It would help greatly in our planning if you would call the office and let us know you are attending!

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UMW—2013

Sometimes it seems like the UMW is always selling something: tickets, flowers, peelers, cookbooks, cookies. Why? Who gets the money? This year we were able to raise $7,000! Except for $1,000 which goes to the district UMW for special missions, all of it is used locally. This year’s recipients were: the Art Central Foundation (Middletown organization that provides free art lessons for low income children), Dove House (Butler County women’s shelter), Hope House, MANY (Middletown Area Neediest Youth), and the Pregnancy Center. We also contributed to several FUMC missions: Breakfast Club, Neighborhood Food Pantry/Benevolent Fund, SHALOM, and Whiz kids. The UMW thanks this congregation for your continued generosity!

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First Friday Concert Series 2014

FEBRUARY 7 MIKE HEMMELGARN

Part magician, part juggler, part ventriloquist, totally entertaining! Get in on the act as audience participation, laughter and amazing, daring feats are seen in our church sanctuary before your very eyes!

MARCH 7 CEOH MOHR CELTIC BAND

One of the most popular Celtic Bands in southwest Ohio joins us with music from the British Isles. Just in time for St. Patrick’s celebrations.

This concert series wouldn’t be possible without the support of the Middletown Community Foundation, the Miriam G. Knoll Charitable Foundation, The Barnitz Fund and the congregation of First United Methodist Church, Middletown. Thank you! Thank you! Thank you for helping us make downtown Middletown a destination for the arts!

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2014 Pledge Update

Your response to the 2014 stewardship campaign is extraordinary. Half of the pledges represented an increase in giving, which is what I asked you to consider when we began the campaign.

It is also worth noting that there were 14 new pledges. That says to me we are headed in the right direction.  This is only possible because of your generosity and the kindness of your heart. You have recognized our commitment to the needs of our neighbors, as well as the far reaching missions around the globe.

Thank you for your financial commitment ‘To Making Mission and Ministry Happen.’

In Christ’s Love,

Mike Snyder

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Community Ministries Corner

Lives Touched in 2013

Last year our various Community Ministries served over 5,000 needs…

177 people were fed through Emergency Food bags

3,390 Monday Breakfasts were served

302 children were cared for through our Hispanic Ministry

Over 100 received support through our  cancer support groups

240 nights out of the cold were overseen through SHALOM

1,225 sales were made in the Food Pantry, saving neighbors lots of dollars

About 12 families were served through Benevolent Funds for various emergency services

You can be proud of the dollars, food items and hours you have given to these ministries. The impact is seen and felt in this neighborhood and nearby community. Great job, everybody!

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February Birthdays

1 Matthew Dixon, Hannah Dornon

3 Sandy Mills

4 Bob Sears, Beth Watson

5 Mark Frazer

7 David Wittman

8 Anita McLaughlin

9 Mary Davis, Lynda Goecke

10 John McDaniel

11 Roy Ickes, Gene Saylor,

David Wieneke

13 Jack Diefenbach, Martha Gill

14 Mary Roehll

16 Mary Ellen Clinard

17 Phyllis Richmond

19 Bill Alderton, Dean Prushing, Helen Tucker

24 Joni Bachelor, Eric Young

28 Donna Burley

 

 

Pastor’s Reflections

 

The Truly Spiritual Person

           We’ve announced this in worship several times in the past month, but since many of his closest friends in the church are among our homebound folks I need to say that our “Pastor of Outreach & Visitation,” the Rev. David Hilton, has had to retire from our staff for health reasons. This is a setback for our congregation, no doubt about it, and I am among those feeling his absence. He’s a great guy, a great friend and a great pastor. I thought I had a pretty good grasp of what all his ministry meant to our Christian community, but I am hearing a lot of “David Hilton stories” these days, and finding out that I only saw the tip of the iceberg.

One thing I did know about David is that he is a big fan of Pope Francis. I guess he is not alone, as Francis has recently been named Time Magazine’s “Person of the Year.” David particularly likes him because of his advocacy for the poor and willingness to critique political systems that allow for excessive greed and indifference. Also, like David, the new pope is someone who actually spends time getting to know the poor and marginalized as real people. Much of David’s ministry involved simply spending time with patrons of Breakfast Club, the food pantry and SHALOM.

We also suspect David might be fond of the pope because they look enough alike to be twins!

But I digress.

While David applauds Francis’s  recent public statements some other do not, and are saying “religion and politics don’t mix” and that the pope should “stick to spiritual matters.” You should know that one of the things David has most appreciated about our church has been the very open discussions we’ve had in Sunday school about economic and political ramifications of our faith. We recently finished an excellent Biblical study of immigration, including national immigration policies. There were certainly disagreements within the class, but no objections to raising controversial issues. We seem to have grasped the fact that you can’t talk about religion without talking about morality, and you can’t talk about morality without talking about how it translates into public life.  I would say that among the many wonderful gifts David Hilton has given to this congregation is encouragement to wrestle with the difficult issues of our time. Yes, David is a truly spiritual person, with a profound prayer life, and as most of you now know, a widely recognized retreat leader. Yet for him spirituality is not only about our relationship with God but our relationships with one another. He stressed to us that in order to be truly spiritual we must be particularly attentive to the deeper problems of the weakest among us.

I happened to meet a man the other day, a combat veteran who carries deep wounds both physical and emotional. He said he’d heard somewhere word of this guy who both talked and listened to people, an ex-Marine like himself, who might be able to help him, give him some guidance. Could I introduce him? I had to tell this fellow that he was talking bout Rev. David Hilton, and that he had retired. I offered what insight I could. I also quietly resolved to work harder for a world where such persons are given a better chance.

Speaking for the staff, for our homebound, and for a great many people, I know that we will miss this pastor very much. I can also tell you he feels the same about all of us, and I do mean all. I believe the best way to honor his ministry is to make this new year one in which we further embrace his expansive understanding of spiritual living.  

God bless us all in 2014,

John Wagner

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Is UMW for You, Ladies?

I would like to encourage any women in the church who are not currently in a United Methodist Women’s Circle to think of adding that special group to your life.

UMW Circles provide a way for women to meet regularly in smaller groups to worship, study, and be in fellowship with each other.  Our circles meet once a month and have similar tasks and goals, but are each unique in the way they fellowship and in the way they fulfill the UMW purpose (fostering spiritual growth, developing leaders and advocating for justice). All of the circles come together a few times a year for special events, like the Cookie Walk we just had last month.

So, ladies, if you’re looking to enrich your church life and to enjoy the faith, fun, fellowship and purpose of the United Methodist Women, we encourage you to pick a time frame that suits your lifestyle and attend a Circle. Feel free to try them all and find the one that fits you. Perhaps you might ask a friend for advice. I know any of the circles would be pleased to add a few new members.

—Rose Morgan

Elizabeth Circle Member

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Miracle In Missions

By Virginia Jenkins for the

FUMC Missions Committee

The Salvation Army receives $25 gift certificates each year for 20 children to shop from Target. Members of the Salvation Army accompany each child to pick out what they’d like. As a member of the Middletown Salvation Army Board, I had Danny, age 6.

Danny said, “Ma’am, I would like a camouflage outfit, if you please.” So we found him a shirt and long pants. We were able to find him a camo outfit and jacket, too. Next were shoes; he requested shoes that light up when you walk in them. I said now we have all the things you need except underwear. “I don’t think I need underwear, ma’am. I have two pairs I wash out every night.” I told him I thought he could use a package. He replied, “I need a back pack more than underwear.” We purchased camouflage underwear. “I don’t need socks wither… I have two pairs.” Same story as the underwear.

He now has six pair of socks, a six-pack of underwear, plus a back pack with new supplies for school!

Talking with the nurses and social workers I found out this attitude is very common in children and adults. And they explained for better hygiene it’s important for them to wear underwear.

The point? Please keep in mind this slightly humorous account of a 6-year-old boy’s shopping trip when buying for the less fortunate. Even though it may not be on their list, if you can, add under garments to their gift baskets, for their good health and hygiene.

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2013’s Most Common New Year’s Resolutions

1) Eat healthy and exercise.

2) Drink less.

3) Learn something new.

4) Quit smoking.

5) Better work/life balance.

6) Volunteer.

7) Save Money.

8) Get organized.

9) Read more.

10) Finish those around the house “to-do” lists.

Was yours on the list in 2013…what about 2014?

We can help you with #6 – just contact the church office and we’ll get you plugged into a ministry that needs your help!

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Serving the Homeless of Middletown

While this was new for a few of our youth, most of our teens are veterans in serving the guests of SHALOM each winter. The FUMC Youth Group cooked and served dinner to guests on December 1st, which was opening night of the shelter, and were reminded that it’s better to give than to receive.

If you’d like to follow suit and provide a meal or fellowship with the SHALOM guests when FUMC hosts again this winter (week of March 16), see John Tack for information and to sign up. It’s a worthy investment of your time—just ask these teens about their recent experience…

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Your Trustees at Work in 2013

Can you remember back when it was hot outside; how refreshing it was to step into the sanctuary and worship in cool comfort? That’s all thanks to Greg Cooper and the building trustees. This past year they replaced the sanctuary air compressors and the  office area AC.

They also had the parking lot resealed and the floors of Fellowship  and Epworth Halls professionally stripped and waxed. But that’s not all! For our Heritage Sunday celebration Greg was able to fix two special things that hadn’t worked in years—the outdoor chimes and the garden fountain.

Special thanks to Bob Wieneke who is retiring his trustee position after 30 years of service! 

God bless,

Barbara Orth

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Can You Say “Building Code?” In Nepal

Update from Dr. Les & Debbie Dornon, missionaries to Nepal working in the Tansen Hospital

Yesterday morning when I left for work at the hospital, our path was quiet and the field above our house was full of wildflowers blowing in the light breeze. A couple of hours later when I returned home, on the last hill up to the house, I had to step off the road for 3 tractors pulling loads of dirt. As I crested the hill, I wondered, “Where is all that dirt coming from?”

Well – imagine my surprise when I saw a huge bulldozer in the path behind our house cutting a hole into the side of the hill. Someone apparently purchased a little piece of land and has decided to build a house! This is happening all over town – but it all seems to be done in such a backwards way, that it is quite frustrating.

People here dig the hole, put up the house, and then think about hooking up electricity and water…. If they are educated, they might put in a septic tank while building…. And there doesn’t seem to be any rules about how close to other houses or to the path things are built…. or any care about blocking a public road or path all during the building process!

Well – pray for us to be gracious during this time. And also say a prayer for our house helper – whose house now has no real path to it due to others building too close to her place….

May God Bless you in this New Year!

In Him,

लेस (Les) and देबी (Debbie)

 

P.S. To see more photos and stories, please check our blog: http://dornonnepalmission.wordpress.com/

Remember, every third Sunday of the month we collect donations to support Les and Debbie’s work in Nepal. You may drop your donation in the collection jars or add it to your regular offering using your envelope; just write “Dornons” along with the designated amount.

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Music Notes by Mary Ellen Clinard

Thank you to all the musicians who shared their talents with us this Christmas! From carolers to

instrumentalists and singers to those who enthusiastically jingled the “jingle bells!” We are truly blessed to have so many who are willing to bring us closer to God through music!

Dates for Musical Outreach: 

We sing at The Woodlands  every 3^rd Friday at 10:30 for about 25 minutes, then drive over to Spring Hill and sing some more.  ALL  are invited to share in this special ministry—you don’t have to be in the choir to sing!

Scripture Readers

We schedule Scripture Readers each quarter. If you would like to participate in worship by reading scripture please let Mary Ellen know and you will be added to our rotation.

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First Friday Concert Series 2014

JANUARY 3 JIMMY ROGERS We kick off the year with our traditional honky-tonk piano man, Jimmy Rogers. Always a favorite!!

FEBRUARY 7   Mike Hemmelgarn-Ventriloquist/Puppeteer/musical show

This concert series wouldn’t be possible without the support of the Middletown Community Foundation, the Miriam G. Knoll Charitable Foundation and the congregation of First United Methodist Church, Middletown. Thank you! Thank you! Thank you for helping us make downtown Middletown a destination for the arts!

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Community Ministries Corner

Thank You…

Another Christmas has come and gone and, hopefully, our hearts are still aglow with the special spirit of the holidays.

The Community Ministry Council wishes to thank you, each and everyone, for your contributions to the Community Christmas Dinner, the Giving and Winter Wear Trees, and your ongoing support of the Pantry, the Emergency Food Program, Whiz Kids, Shalom, Highview Ministry and our Hispanic Ministry.  We are a congregation that truly “gets” what Christmas is all about.  As Tiny Tim said, “God bless us, every one!” 

New Pantry Shoppers!

The Pantry wishes to welcome aboard our new shoppers: Tom & Chris Buchert, Gene & Pat Saylor, and Barb & Dave Balsmeyer. They have graciously volunteered to help keep the Pantry stocked by doing the weekly shopping. If you feel that this is something you might like to try doing, please join us. Just call the church office at 513-423-4629 and leave your name and number.

Highview Highlights

It’s time for our annual mid-year school supply drive to begin to help re-stock the teachers’ classrooms. Please look for a list at the Highview Happenings bulletin board and drop items in the bin at your convenience. If you want someone to shop for you please just write a note on your offering envelope that says “Highview School Supplies.” Thanks for your continued generosity!

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January Birthdays

2 Mindi Dickson

6 Sylvia Maynard

9 Glenna Combs

10 Chris Urso

12 Bob Beagle

13 Kathy Hieber

18 Jim Hogg

19 James Irwin

22 Pat Schaefer

23 Vikki Jones

25 Brett Dickson, Phyllis Lolli

26 Alex Mills

27 Walt Roehll

28 Andrew Youtsler

30 Carolyn Tucker

31 Dixie Davis

 

 

 

Reflections from the Pastor

The Veneration Due

 “I am sure I have always thought of Christmas time, when it has come round – apart from the veneration due to its sacred name and origin, if anything belonging to it can be apart from that – as a good time; a kind, forgiving, charitable, pleasant time; the only time I know of, in the long calendar of the year, when men and women seem by one consent to open their shut-up hearts freely, and to think of people below them as if they really were fellow-passengers to the grave, and not another race of creatures bound on other journeys. And therefore, though it has never put a scrap of gold or silver in my pocket, I believe that it has done me good, and will do me good; and I say, God bless it!” ― Charles Dickens, A Christmas Carol

This quote comes by way of Ebenezer Scrooge’s nephew Fred, who is as naturally jolly as his uncle is humbugged – and is even more so at Christmas. He’s also right about this holiday, both in his day and ours. Somehow, despite the crass commercialism, despite the rush and the pressure to overspend and overeat, it works. People really are nicer, they really do give their hearts more freely, they really do see their neighbors in a different way. This is apparent in all sorts of folks, including those for whom Christmas is an entirely secular season.

Now as a religious person, I also have to agree with Fred that the origin has to be reckoned with; veneration is indeed due to its sacred name. The name itself comes from the old English word Crīstesmæsse, which literally means Christ’s Mass, as in a celebration of Christ. And as Christians, among our other obligations, we are asked to lift him up at this time and celebrate his entry into this world.

Starting Sunday, December 1^st, I will be leading a series of four Advent classes in the Chapel. I’m calling it “Preparing our Hearts for Jesus.” We will look at concrete ways to make the season a spiritual time for ourselves and those around us. I love movies, and will be using film clips from Christmas movies as part of my teaching.

Please come. Please make this commitment. Even if you will be traveling during parts of December, please come when you can. As Christians I believe we have a great deal more influence than we often realize, and that it is within our capacity to make this hectic holiday more meaningful for everyone. Many of us will be around children in the coming weeks – they need to hear us share the sacred story. As much as they may already love Christmas, their experience can be deepened.

Which brings me to one more request: We are putting together a short Christmas musical for Sunday morning December 15^th. All children are welcome to come to the practices, which we are holding during Jr. Church (when children are dismissed from worship.) If you have children or grandchildren who might enjoy this, please consider bringing them.

Christmas is coming. A truly sacred time of year. Let us prepare our hearts, our minds and our spirits so that we may honestly say along with Scrooge’s nephew, “God bless it!”

Peace,

John Wagner

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Getting To Know You…

“I had so much joy as the wife of a minister,” said Mary Jane Frazer recently about her life as a pastor’s spouse. “The Lord has been so good.”

Mary Jane Kiefhaber was born on September 9, 1929, to Ray and Florence Kiefhaber in Columbus, OH. She was one of four children born within 5 ½ years and enjoyed wonderful, close relationships with her siblings while they were growing up. Mary Jane’s father was a manager of a wholesale grocery business and her mother stayed at home with the children.

“It was a Christian home,” she said. “Everyone went to church – it didn’t matter how late you had stayed out the night before. After church we had dinner and visited our grandparents. Always, there was love.”

In the early 1940’s Rev. Herbert Frazer was appointed as pastor of Hansberger Memorial Methodist Church, where the Kiefhabers attended. Mary Jane met the pastor’s son, Gene, and although they went to the same youth group, camps, and conferences, they weren’t really all that interested in each other until college.

Mary Jane went off to Asbury College to study teaching, and at a camp meeting, she accepted Christ and made the decision to serve Him in whatever she did.

In 1948, Gene Frazer came to Asbury from Ohio State, struggling with his call to ministry. It was there that Mary Jane and Gene began a relationship that blossomed into love and in 1951, they married.

As a student, Gene had served Good Hope Charge, four rural churches, near Washington Court House and after their marriage, they were appointed there. Gene graduated from Oberlin School of Theology and Mary Jane taught school in Columbus.

“We spent six years at Good Hope,” said Mary Jane, “and they were wonderful years.”

In 1955, they moved to Eastview Methodist in Columbus, which had recently split from another church and had no building. They had a small house for meetings and worshiped at a nearby school. During the four years the Frazers were there, the first unit of a church building went up and 500 members were received into membership.

“Eastview was special to us because Mark and Emily were born while we were there,” said Mary Jane. “I left teaching then to stay home to care for them.”

In 1959, they were called to Grove City, another church that had recently split and required a building project. They spent nine years there, and when they left, the education wing and a new parsonage were completed, and there was much growth in the membership of the church.

Middletown was the next stop, in 1968. They were both excited to come here because the church had a great reputation in the conference.

“We had a wonderful experience here in Middletown,” said Mary Jane. “I was very active in the church, the kids did well in school and the church was strong and active.”

While in Middletown, Mary Jane began teaching again, first as a substitute and then full time. When Gene was appointed District Superintendent of the Cincinnati District in 1974, she drove from Cincinnati daily to teach at Creekview School.

In 1980, the Frazers headed to Trinity UMC in Columbus and were there until Gene’s retirement in 1999. During that time, Mark graduated from medical school and married Vickie, an RN, and Emily became a pediatric nurse practitioner, and married Rev. Steve Cramer. Mary Jane was very involved with children’s ministries and the UMW at Trinity and became involved with older adult ministries and had the opportunity to lead 54 day trips and take 3 groups to the Holy Land and 2 to Alaska. She also returned to teaching again.

In 1990, she was named Outstanding Educator for the state of Ohio. In an extensive newspaper article, she said:

“What a wonderful life it has been to be a part of the teaching profession all these years. All that I have put into teaching has come back a hundred fold.”

When Gene retired in 1999, the Frazers returned to Middletown, a place they considered to be home.

“We enjoyed all six of our appointments over the 50 years we were in ministry,” said Mary Jane. “Each church had its unique qualities and challenges and we found wonderful people at each one, but Middletown was very special to us—Mark was here.”

The family suffered a great loss when Gene died in 2006.

“We still miss him so much,” said Mary Jane. “We had a good life and had such fun together in ministry.”

 Mary Jane developed Rheumatoid Arthritis several years ago, but the disease hasn’t interfered with her activities until recently.

As she looks over her scrapbook that is filled with pictures and wonderful memories of an active, multi-faceted life, she talks about what she is most proud of:

“I am proudest of my family. They have brought me continued joy throughout the years and strength and caring as the years have gone by. God blessed us with a son, Mark, who married Vickie, and a daughter, Emily, who married Rev. Steve Cramer. All four have grown to be responsible adults and made great choices in their lives. They have blessed us with four wonderful grandchildren and our first great grandchild is due in February! How proud I am of each one and appreciate how they continue to give loving concern and support to me at this point in my life.”

by JoAnn Wagner

This article is one in a series of interviews with various long-time church members we are featuring. We hope you enjoy getting to know them a little bit better.

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What is the 25Cent Club?

First, it is NOT a real club. It doesn’t hold meetings or have a membership list. The real members are you, the congregation.

A number of years ago a small group of Sunday school members wanted to help a student from India. He needed transportation to get around to the churches he was to serve. The cost of a car was out of the question; a motor bike would do fine. The class started saving quarters. Any quarter placed in the offering plate went to buy the motorbike.

What the Mission Committee is trying to do is help every member to realize that there is a constant need out there beyond our local community and country. The 25cent piece is a reminder, or symbol, of that need.

The funds from the 25Cent Club will be for projects the Mission Committee sees a need. The 25Cent Club is not meant to replace special giving asked for by the District or the Conference.

Please join with the members of the Mission Committee and drop your quarter in the offering plate each Sunday during Advent (December 1-22). Remember, no dollars, only quarters.

For the Mission Committee,

Frank Richmond

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2013 UMW Cookbook on Sale at the Cookie Walk

Looking for a recipe for the holidays? Pick up the new cookbook at the Cookie Walk on December 14.

The cookbook is a special project of the UMW and is being coordinated by members of Hope Circle.

The spiral-bound cookbook includes more than 200 recipes, all contributed by church members from their own family favorites. A special section is devoted to May Salad Luncheon recipes. Other sections include Appetizers, Meats and Main Dishes; Side Dishes; Breads, Rolls & Pastries; Cakes, Cookies & Desserts; Beverages, & Miscellaneous.

The cost of the cookbook is $10 per copy. Church members may pre-order copies by contacting the church office, 513-423-4629.

All proceeds benefit local area missions.

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Lessons from TV—In Nepal

Update from Dr. Les & Debbie Dornon, missionaries to Nepal working in the Tansen Hospital

Well – we don’t actually have an antenna or cable, so we don’t get Nepali TV! But – a friend of ours in Kathmandu sent out this little message, and so we asked if we could “borrow” from him to share with you! It seemed very appropriate with the Nepal elections which happened on Nov. 19.

“We are very much aware (via CNN and BBC) of the economic pounding the USA is currently going through, with headlines including:

Debt Ceiling Looming
A Manic Monday As Debt Ceiling Deadline Approaches
Debt-ceiling breach would push economy into free fall, without a government safety net. I am neither a global economist nor a recent Nobel laureate. Having lived most of my adult life in a country (Nepal) where dysfunctional government is a fact-of-life, however, it is interesting to observe how locals here take to “bad news.”

During the 1996-2006 Maoist insurgency, turn on Nepal TV and what do you primarily see? A “song and dance” movie. When the world economy took a nose dive in 2008, turn on Nepal TV and what do you primarily see? “Boy meets girl” singing. Currently, when the USA Debt Ceiling Deadline looms on the immediate horizon, turn on Nepal TV and what do you primarily see? People returning to their villages to celebrate the holidays.

I am not here to tout either world view. It’s my retirement savings that are, symbolically, on the line also. Somewhere between the two extremes I’ve noted above, however, might possibly be some healthy ground?”

Here’s to walking by faith! Thanks for your prayers. And Merry Christmas!

In Him,

लेस (Les) and देबी (Debbie)

 

P.S. To see more photos and stories, please check our blog: http://dornonnepalmission.wordpress.com/

Remember, every third Sunday of the month we collect donations to support Les and Debbie’s work in Nepal. You may drop your donation in the collection jars or add it to your regular offering using your envelope; just write “Dornons” along with the designated amount.

 

 

 

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Music Notes by Mary Ellen Clinard

OPPORTUNITIES THIS SEASON

Fri, Dec. 6 at 12 noon First Friday Community Christmas Sing-A-Long and Crazy Christmas Sweater Contest

Win a gift certificate to Kohl’s if your Christmas sweater is the ugliest of all! Plus lots of fun singing carols accompanied by Rod Nimtz on piano!

Sun, Dec 15 & Mon. Dec. 16 Christmas Caroling is one of the most rewarding events of the season!! Everyone is invited to come and sing to members of our congregation who may have difficulty getting to church. It’s fun and fellowship and music and mission! Meet in the Commons at 2pm either or both days.

Fri. Dec. 20 Singing at The Woodlands, then Spring Hills. Everyone is invited to join and sing. Meet in the lobby of The Woodlands (across from First Presbyterian on McGee) at 10:30am.

Tue. Dec. 24 Christmas Eve Candlelight Service Pre-service music begins at 7 and worship begins at 7:30 on this special night of nights!

If you would like to read scripture for Sunday morning worship, please contact Mary Ellen.  A new schedule will be in the making for the 1st quarter of 2014 this month.

GIVE A GIFT THAT WILL CHANGE A LIFE!

Make a contribution to our Music Scholarship fund in honor or in memory of a loved one. We will send a card notifying the recipient of your gift if you provide us with the address. These gifts will provide private music lessons to students in our congregation who are studying voice or an instrument. What a great way to support our youth and encourage them to offer their music as a gift to God. Giving forms are available in the pews. For more information, contact Mary Ellen.

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First Friday Concert Series 2013

DECEMBER 6 CHRISTMAS SING-A-LONG – WAS CANCELLED DUE TO INCLEMENT WEATHER

2014 IS ON! We will begin the year with an all new First Friday @ First Methodist Concert Series thanks to a generous grant from the Miriam Knoll Foundation and the Middletown Community Foundation. There will be favorites from years past as well as some new talent you will not want to miss.  We start in January with our traditional honky-tonk piano man Jimmy Rogers. Always a favorite!! New schedules will be out soon.

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Community Ministries Corner

Harvest of the Heart:

The count is in! The caring people of FUMC gave over $1500 worth of goods on Harvest of the Heart Sunday, and that estimate of value is based upon Aldi type prices. Way to go First Church! Thank you and may God continue to prosper you so that you may continue to be a blessing to others.

Highview Highlights

We will be conducting our Annual Supply Drive for Highview 6th Grade Center starting right after the holidays. There will be detailed information available then, but you can be on the lookout for sales on the usual supply needs; pencils, pens, tissues, Clorox wipes, folders, erasers, hand sanitizer, post-its, etc. Donations are also welcome for purchases. The continued support from our congregation helps lift this important ministry for our community. Many thanks to all, Lynda Goecke

Free Community Holiday Dinner December 10th at 5:30pm

Everyone in the community is invited for ham, tater tots and all the fixin’s. We are distributing invitations to families of Rosa Parks Elementary, Highview Sixth Grade Center, and the local high-rises.

Donations of homemade cookies and ready to serve rolls are needed. If you are interested in assisting you may come and help for part or all of the day on Dec 10, 9:30am—

7:30pm (soup lunch provided for all volunteers). Contact Vickie Frazer by leaving a message with the church office.

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December Birthdays

1  Pat Lyke

3 David Irwin

7 Sue Day, Fred Sander

8 Mary Lou Bennett,

Helen Hackney, Jared McDaniel

9 Bob Fultz

10 Henry Folgoso

11 Esther Johnson

13 Don Stamper

14 Terry Hines

16 Marcia Greenham

17 Rev. John Wagner

18 Carrie Ingram, Dorothy Youtsler

20 C.M. Jenkins, Kelli Wilson

22 Kathy Wright

23 Joyce Thompson

24 Tom Buchert

25 Jesus, Rick Lyke,

Miriam Melloh

26 David Young

27 John Nichols

28 Dee Markle

29 Nita Driscoll

30 Brianne Archer, Duane Gordon, Belinda Hausman,  Matthew  Youtsler

31 Robert Boyd

 

 

 

 

Pastor’s Reflections

My Pledge for Pledge Sunday

  November is the month we hold our annual Pledge Drive, and this year it will culminate on November 24^th, the Sunday prior to Thanksgiving – which seems appropriate. We give because we are thankful. You will be asked to make an estimate of your giving for the following year.

We are still in 2013 so it’s a bit hard to calculate, but as of now it looks as though we will be asking the congregation for a small increase in giving, probably around 5 per cent. I’m hoping this will cover anticipated increases in our utility payments, a small cost of living increase for our staff, and $5000 for “The Gathering.” (Most of you remember when this creative ministry to the neighborhood was located in our church. We are still connected through friendship and denominational ties, and now have a church member on their advisory committee.) I very much hope we can manage this increased giving while continuing to honor the commitments we made in 2012 – paying our fair share for the larger mission of the United Methodist Church around the world and maintaining our formal Covenant Relationship with Les and Debbie Dornon, our missionaries in Nepal.

As most of you know we have recently taken on Henry and Dani Folgoso as student pastors. They will be helping with children and youth, also worship, and then of course leading our outreach to the Hispanic community of Middletown. As far as supporting this ministry, we anticipate taking 12 thousand dollars a year for the next three years out of a restricted account called the Children’s Ministry Fund. The rest should be covered by a grant for new ministries from the United Methodist Church nationally. In other words, we will not be asking for help from your regular tithes and pledges with this particular new expense.

Which brings me to the heart of what I want to say. Our church has a fairly large amount of money in designated funds – that is, funds that are designated for a particular use, such as ministry to children, organ repair, the pastor’s housing allowance, the food pantry and so forth. These funds are all invested, and do earn some interest, but the interest is also not available for general use in our church budget. In other words, we can only spend it on those activities or ministries designated by the persons who set up the fund. Part of my obligation as a pastor is to honor those intentions. This is also the responsibility of our finance, trustees and investment committees.

My pledge to you is to be transparent about what we truly need from you in terms of annual financial support. It is very important to me personally that you trust me not only as your pastor but as one of those maintaining our fiscal integrity. I want you to believe we are using your gifts wisely and prudently, not extravagantly. I also would hope that if you have any questions at all you would come to me or to one of the other financial officers of the church. We would be glad to get into the details.

To make the point further, we want you to believe we sincerely need this money when we ask for it, and would not cry wolf when we don’t.

I am truly delighted to be in this church at this time in your history. I am inspired by what you’ve done in the past, and I’ve come to admire your church leaders. And good things are happening right now. Community ministries continue to be vital and compassionate. We have seen some growth in children and youth in worship, and an increase in attendance overall. Let’s continue forward in the confidence that God has brought us all together for a reason.

In Christ,

John Wagner

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Getting To Know You…

Louise Goforth started walking to our church from her nearby Middletown home when she was just 4 years old, most likely with an older brother. From then on she was a regular and officially became a member in 1943.

Louise’s mother died when she was very young so her father raised her and her siblings. “Church was my family,” she said. “Nobody had to push me to go to church.” “I loved the church.” After her marriage to classmate, Charles, shortly after high school, they both came to church. Louise was active in Women’s Society (now known as the UMW), helped out with many events and dinners and called on new members and others at pledge time. She recalls friends from those times very fondly.

For a while, Louise worked at Bowman’s Garden store, doing the flower arranging—a talent she shared freely at church for many events and as a member of a local garden club. Although her bridge-playing days are now past, Louise was quite the bridge player for many years.

A faithful member still, today at 91, Louise enjoys her residence at Mt. Pleasant Retirement Village, reads her Bible daily and enjoys visiting with old church friends like Kay Fraley and others. Her beloved husband, Charles, died in 1989, but her two boys, Kent and Tim, who live in Middletown and Urbana respectively, visit her regularly. When I visited and asked about favorite scriptures, she didn’t limit it to one in particular, but reiterated to me that she “loves to read her Bible and loves the Lord.”

by Anita Shew

Assisted by Kay Fraley

This article is one in a series of interviews with various long-time church members we are featuring. We hope you enjoy getting to know them a little bit better.

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A Miracle of Mission

By Mary Jane Frazer for the

FUMC Missions Committee

John Daniel Gore, mission intern with the General Board of Global Ministries, served initially in Wi’am Palestinian Conflict Revolution Center in Bethlehem shared these words with us through the 2013 UMW Prayer Calendar:

“So much energy is spent analyzing our differences and finding reasons to be apart when we could be so dedicated to loving people who are different than ourselves. Wanting justice and abundant life for them becomes the next step. I think often on the nature of walls. These boundaries can block the harsh, dry wind or they can loom high between communities, causing blindness, paralysis and resentment. Walls must keep the warmth in, not the people out.”

Your apportionment dollars are used to support missionaries such as John Daniel, who work in these difficult regions.

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The 25¢ Club

The Missions Committee met and agreed that in December, during Advent, we will be asking the congregation for quarters—regular silver alloy quarters—on all of those four Sundays. The money raised will go for a mission project at home or abroad to be determined at our January meeting. This only includes quarters—not dimes, pennies, nickels or other undesignated funds in the offering plate—just quarters.

This is a way to raise both money and consciousness about missions in our congregation.

—The Missions Committee

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UMW Christmas Luncheon

December 7

United Methodist Women will gather for their annual Christmas Luncheon on Saturday, Dec 7, 2013, at Brown’s Run Country Club.

Any woman in the church is welcome to join members at this holiday gathering. Middletown High School’s Purple Pizzazz will be the featured entertainment. Ladies should arrive by 11:30am.

Cost for the luncheon is $12. A valet service will be available. The deadline for reservations is November 29. Payment should be made at the time of reservations. If paying by check, it should be made out to Brown’s Run Country Club.

For more information call the church office, 513-423-4629.

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All Saints Sunday

All Saints Sunday is observed in our worship service on Sunday, November 3rd. For me, this is one of the highlights of the liturgical year. The names of those who have united with the Church Triumphant during the past year are read, a candle is lit and a bell is tolled in their memory. These are solemn and sacred moments that fill me with profound gratitude.

Who are the saints? The early church honored the martyrs as saints. We name our Christian brothers and sisters as among the saints and honor them on this special day.

A young child was asked, “Who is a saint?” Looking around the sanctuary at the figures portrayed in stained glass, the child replied, “They are the ones the light shines through.” The light of Christ shines through the lives of those who love God with all their heart … soul … strength … mind and love their neighbors as themselves. (Luke 10:27)

The Letter to the Hebrews names the heroes and heroines of faith and then follows with this instruction for us: “Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight … and let us run with perseverance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus the pioneer and perfecter of our faith …” (Hebrews 12:1-2)

We are called to let the light of Christ shine through us. We, too, have a legacy to leave for those who follow us. Look for more about this in the December issue of the Ambassador.

—David Hilton

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UMW Cookie Walk

December 14

United Methodist Women will host the annual Cookie Walk on Saturday, December 14, 2013. This UMW holiday tradition will offer a variety of cookies, candies, and other scrumptious treats for patrons to purchase for their loved ones. All church members are asked to bake 6 to 12 dozen cookies for the event, which will be from 10 a.m. to noon. Cookies will be sold for $6/pound.

Something new this year will be a gift-wrapping service. For a donation, UMW members will wrap gifts that are brought to the wrapping table. There will be a variety of Christmas wrapping paper and ribbons available, but no gift boxes.

All proceeds will benefit UMW Service Projects. For more info call the church office, 513-423-4629.

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Dasai… In Nepal

Update from Dr. Les & Debbie Dornon, missionaries to Nepal working in the Tansen Hospital

Yesterday was the new moon – and the first day of the Hindu holiday called Dasai. Traditionally, all govt offices and many other businesses are closed for up to 15 days during this celebration. The main day of Dasai is Oct 14 (the 10^th day of the festival. Dasai actually means 10^th day.) During this major Hindu festival everyone wants to be home with family and do their pujas (hindu rites). Many goats are slaughtered and eaten and even more alcohol is consumed. This also means that elsewhere in Nepal, physicians and nurses go home and hospitals are closed or semi closed.

According to our Nepali doctors, we are responsible for approximately 1 million persons during these days – especially around the 8^th to 12^th day of the festival. We close our outpatient dept for 3 days, but the inpatient wards and ER remain open 24/7. Sometimes the cases that come in are more difficult than usual as people have had to travel further or wait as transport is difficult during this time.

It is traditionally a happy time for most families, but for others it can be a time of real struggle. Please pray for Nepal and especially for the Christians during this time. Many Christians are isolated from families during this festival.

In Him,

लेस (Les) and देबी (Debbie)

P.S. To see more photos and stories, please check our blog: http://dornonnepalmission.wordpress.com/

Remember, every third Sunday of the month we collect donations to support Les and Debbie’s work in Nepal. You may drop your donation in the collection jars or add it to your regular offering using your envelope; just write “Dornons” along with the designated amount.

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Music Notes by Mary Ellen Clinard

Hanging of the Greens November 24^th!

Come join our other First Church members as we decorate our church for the upcoming Advent and Christmas Season! It’s a time of fun and fellowship as we bring out the decorations, get up on ladders, hang ornaments, and get a preview of our beautiful sanctuary during this sacred season.

Decorating starts at 4pm followed by a Sloppy Joe Dinner and a brief Hanging of the Greens service. For all ages and decorating skill levels!!  Many hands make light work!

Thank You!

A special “thank you” to all those who have shared their musical talents with us this Fall! We are so blessed as a congregation to have so many wonderful musicians! What a joy and we appreciate you!

Love One Another…

Some of our members need closer access to the church building on Sunday mornings. If you are able to walk reasonable distances, please consider parking in the library lot or in the City lot at the corner of Broad and 1^st Avenue. This will make the spaces in the parking lot behind the church available for those that have difficulty walking, whether or not they have a handicapped decal. Thank you so much for caring about our church family!

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First Friday Concert Series 2013

NOVEMBER 1 BUFFALO RIDGE JAZZ BAND

Buffalo Ridge Jazz Band, who wowed audiences with their great Big Band, Dixieland, and improvisational skills in our First Friday line-up in 2012, will be performing in place of The Faux Frenchmen. Their show was one of the best last year so you won’t want to miss it!

DECEMBER 6 CHRISTMAS SING-A-LONG

Charlie had so much fun he wanted to come back and do it again! More singing! More trivia! More jingle bells and silly hats! Bring your friends as our community ushers in the Holiday Season together.

This concert series wouldn’t be possible without the support of the Middletown Community Foundation, Barnitz Fund, the Miriam G. Knoll Charitable Foundation and the congregation of First United Methodist Church, Middletown. Thank you! Thank you! Thank you for helping us make downtown Middletown a destination for the arts!

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Community Ministries Corner

A True Harvest of the Hearts

There is something very moving about seeing all of the “Harvest of the Heart” bags lined up in the front of the sanctuary every year. It’s a visual reminder of what goes on in the church food pantry week after week because of the continuing generosity of our church family. Thank you one and all for your giving hearts! You are a blessing!

Highview Highlights

The first quarter at Highview ended Oct. 18. Wow! That went fast! Since our activities the first week of school, the Highview Team has served popcorn, delivered the Middle School Confidential books, and served up ice cream for the Honor Roll students.

Thank you to those who are donating supplies on a regular basis. We will begin our annual Mid-Year Supply Drive in January. Please continue to include the staff and students at Highview in your prayers.

Free Community Holiday Dinner December 10th at 5:30pm

Everyone in the community is invited for ham, tater tots and all the fixin’s. We are distributing invitations to families of Rosa Parks Elementary, Highview Sixth Grade Center, and the local high-rises.

Donations of homemade cookies and ready to serve rolls are needed. If you are interested in assisting you may come and help for part or all of the day on Dec 10, 9:30am—7:30pm (soup lunch provided for all volunteers). Call or email Vickie Frazer if you are coming (513.424.8582/ MEFVCF@aol.com).

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November Birthdays

2 Pat Duffey, Rose Morgan

4 Sandy Moore

10 Patt Gibson, Elaine Slama, Kathi Wilson

11 Herman Emmert,

Marilyn Grandey

12 Sally Jo Inwood

14 Patricia Inwood, Joni Regensburg

17 Cheryl Davis

18 Carol Byrd

21 Phyllis Cox

23 Janet Crawford, Nancy Haney

25 Leo Davis

28 Michael Hieber

29 John Houser, Bill Thorn

30 Les Dornon, Skylar Halsey

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Overcoming Obstacles with Anthony Muñoz

Sunday, October 13, 10:30am

 

Anthony Muñoz, NFL Hall of Fame member and former player for the Cincinnati Bengals, is known for his faith-based charitable works in the Cincinnati area and beyond. With his Anthony Muñoz Charitable Foundation, youth have been inspired by programs that emphasize a strong faith and Christian values in daily life since 2002. A California native, Muñoz has made his home in Deerfield Township since being a part of the Bengals and retiring in 1992.

We are pleased that Mr. Muñoz has agreed to share his story with us in a message about overcoming obstacles. Please make plans to hear this well-known and well-respected servant of God as he presents the message to us that Sunday.

We invite you to stay for lunch together. Lunch will be provided by FUMC; donation baskets will be out for those that would like to contribute. We will invite all guests at this service to stay, so please show our FUMC hospitality with warm smiles and friendly conversation, especially greeting new comers!

 

Invite Someone to Join You!

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Getting To Know You…

 

100 Years old in May and sharp as a tack, Daisy Byrum could probably still out-dance all of us. Daisy grew up in Middletown and was close enough to walk to First Methodist Church, entering into the activities for the young people. She came even though her mother went to a different church for a while. She and Jack married in 1935 and got even more involved in church activities. Especially important to Daisy was her teaching Sunday School, leading the children to God and watching them grow in their faith. She served as Circle leader numerous times and head of the Women’s Society (as it was called), helping with the many dinners and events held then. She talked about starting a young people’s group (probably similar to PrimeTimers) and holding a rededication of marriage ceremony for those members. Daisy remembers participating in the P.R.O.M.I.S.E.S. group. She and Jack went to Japan with the second group in 1972. And she even took time to work with the church Cub Scout troop.

In addition to all these activities, Daisy raised 4 children and volunteered in their schools. (Richard in Florida, Patty Ann in Arizona and Don and William close by in Poasttown and West Middletown.) She and husband Jack (a long-time usher and active church member) were married for 73 years, before his passing in 2009.

For Daisy, “Religion is the 10 Commandments, doing what is right and loving God.” Her favorite hymn is “In the Garden.” And she loves to tell the joke  about the kid in Sunday school who knows God’s first name from that old hymn—His name’s Andy… you know “And he walks with me, And He talks…”.

Now, back to dancing. Just ask Daisy if you can see those Journal newspaper clippings of her and Jack appearing in the Senior Citizens’ musical revues held in the 70’s and 80’s. That is, if you can catch her when she is not walking around the Otterbein Retirement Community grounds!

By Anita Shew

This article is the second in a series of interviews with various long-time church members we are featuring. We hope you enjoy getting to know them a little bit better.

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A Miracle of Mission

By Virginia Jenkins for the FUMC Missions Committee

The Rev. Paul L. Webster and Tishala Mwengo are missionaries with the General Board of Global Ministries, serving at Mujila Falls Agricultural Centre in Zambia. They remind us that all things are possible through the Lord…

Soon after birth, Raphael’s mother contracted an infection in her breasts and could not nurse him. In the past, children like Raphael often died as there was no substitute for mother’s milk. But when Mujila Falls Agricultural Centre heard about Raphael’s plight they were able to help. The Centre had been working with a women’s cooperative group in the village to start a goat-milking project so they offered to provide daily milk for the baby. Raphael is now six months old and growing normally.

Miracles like these are made possible because your apportionment dollars are used to support these missionaries and their work.

This story was found in the 2013 UMW Prayer Calendar.

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What Is Contemplative Living?

By David Hilton

This is a question and practice I have been exploring in recent years. Contemplative living is a way of responding to our everyday living experiences by consciously attending to our relationships. It deepens our awareness of our connectedness and communion with all of life.

Living contemplatively begins with ourselves but leads us in the end to embrace deeply not only our truest self, but God, neighbor, and all of creation. Contemplative living directs our minds and hearts to the important issues of human existence, making us less likely to be captivated by the superficial distractions that so easily occupy our time.

When relationships are “true,” free from illusions, especially the illusion of separateness, we experience how deeply connected we are to God, others and to nature. As Thomas Merton wrote, “We are already one. But we imagine we are not. And what we discover is our original unity. What we have to be is what we already are.” (The Asian Journal of Thomas Merton)

Fred Rogers, in Mr. Rogers’ Neighborhood, describes this for children of all ages. “The purpose of life is to listen to yourself, to your neighbor, to your world and to God and, when the time comes, to respond in as helpful a way as you can find … from within and without.”

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Bienvenidos! (Welcome!)

We are excited to announce that Henry & Dani Folgoso are joining our staff this month. They will be sharing a part-time position that will involve responsibilities in the areas of children, youth, worship and our local Hispanic ministry.

For those of you who have already served with them you know that we have reason to rejoice in this addition to our already talented staff. They will bring energy, creativity and a new perspective to our ministry team. More details to come.

 

 

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Pastor’s Reflections

The Silly, the Scary and the Sacred

I confess I’ve been a fan of Halloween for as long as I can remember.

I thought it was amazing that you could dress up, go door to door, and total strangers would admire your costume and give you treats. I’ve always been a show-off, and I’d work on my outfit for weeks ahead of time; it was never about the candy. And as an adult I still enjoy receiving children at my door. Back in Huber Heights I got to meet families from the housing project on the other side of the highway, and it seemed like the one time of year where we could have a relaxed and friendly encounter on equal terms. I also enjoy the decorations, the Halloween specials like “The Great Pumpkin,” haunted houses and hayrides … the whole bit.

What I don’t care for are modern horror movies with their emphasis on graphic violence and demonic possession. I actually haven’t seen any of them – just the previews — but they seem horrible. I also know the attraction to the occult can be very dangerous for some young people. I can sympathize with the many Christians who want to find a way to avoid Halloween altogether.

Having said that, I hope we can find a way to keep it going.

After the attacks on September 11, 2001 there were suggestions that the baseball and football seasons be cancelled – they suddenly seemed kind of pointless, and there were safety concerns around gathering in large crowds. We had similar thoughts about canceling Halloween, what with dressing up as ghosts and skeletons after all those deaths, and perhaps sending children out into a night more dangerous than it was before.

I’m glad we didn’t do either of those things. We decided not to let our fears take over, decided not to be so hasty in deciding what was frivolous or inappropriate.

We are planning a concert here at the church on Sunday, October 27 at 4:00pm and we are calling it: “The Silly, the Scary and the Sacred.” It will be kind of like our patriotic sing-a-longs in July. We will hear some secular and fun music traditionally associated with Halloween, perhaps sing a spooky pumpkin carol or two, but also try to re-connect some of the Christian associations with the holiday, of which there are, surprisingly, quite a few. Halloween is literally “All Hallows’ Eve,” the night before “All Hallows’ Day” on November 1, or as we now call it, “All Saints Day.” We honor the great Christians of the past, and call on their memory to help us conquer our fears. The way I like to interpret it, Halloween has become a time we set aside to mock and even tease the things that frighten us. Children dress up like ghosts and goblins so they can laugh at them, and take back the night.

Our final hymn that afternoon will be Martin Luther’s “A Mighty Fortress,” where he writes: “And though this world with devils filled should threaten to undo us, we will not fear, for God has willed, His truth to triumph through us.”

It’s not a command performance, but you are all welcome.

Peace,

Rev. John Wagner

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The Work of the Ministry In Nepal

Update from Dr. Les & Debbie Dornon, missionaries to Nepal working in the Tansen Hospital

We first met “T” in 1990 when we came to Tansen to have our “orientation week.” She did our laundry and made bread, etc., for us. She now works in the Guest House as a cook. Her husband, “N”, used to work in the hospital dental department. Unfortunately, he has had problems with alcoholism over the years. He was finally fired from the hospital because he had beaten “T” one too many times during a drunken spree. Debbie meets with “T” about once a month to pray. “N” went through rehab in KTM and has been working in the bazaar and staying sober for the past several months.

These two are both Believers, but they have had many tragedies in their lives – including the loss of a daughter to suicide. They are currently raising 2 of their grandchildren. One is the son of the daughter who died (the father is overseas), and the other is their son’s daughter – the son is working in KTM, and the daughter in law is finishing her Nursing degree. “T” works so hard, but is getting older.

The other day, her main prayer request was for a water line to their house. Right now she is dependent on others to leave her a few buckets of water – she doesn’t have the strength to carry it from the public tap. In order to apply for their own line, they need $200. For a family who maybe earns $200 a month, this is not doable. They would then also need to purchase the pipe, the drums, etc., as well. Please pray for “T” and “N” and their family – and for us as we deal with difficult issues like this every day.

In Him,

लेस (Les) and देबी (Debbie)

 

P.S. To see more photos and stories, please check our blog: http://dornonnepalmission.wordpress.com/

Remember, every third Sunday of the month we collect donations to support Les and Debbie’s work in Nepal. You may drop your donation in the collection jars or add it to your regular offering using your envelope; just write “Dornons” along with the designated amount.

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Music Notes by Mary Ellen Clinard

The Silly, the Scary and the Sacred Concert on October 27

Where else would you be able to hear our pipe organ at it’s biggest and loudest and scariest…(even bigger than on Sunday mornings…..) AND sing “The Monster Mash” with your friends, AND join in a rousing and uplifting offering of “A Mighty Fortress Is Our God”?? At the “Silly, The Scary, and the Sacred” Concert on Sunday October 27^th at 4pm in our sanctuary! 

This wide variety of styles will help us understand our culture’s interest in all things “Halloween-y” and why as Christians, we mock death during this season just before All Saint’s Sunday. 

Many of our musicians in our congregation will be participating. Appropriate for all ages!

New Choir Members!

Have you noticed some new faces in the choir?  We welcome Belinda Hausman and Beth Miller in our soprano section, Dominique Dumfee in the Alto section and J.J. Peil joins the Basses.

Be sure to stop and greet them on Sunday morning after church. We are always happy to have new members join us. We are gearing up for Christmas, so now is a perfect time to get started if you have interested in being a new addition, too!

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First Friday Concert Series 2013

OCTOBER 4 CINCINNATI KLEZMER PROJECT

The Klezmers are back! Hold on to your seats because it will be hard not to move to this infectious, hypnotic music of Eastern Europe and the Jewish culture. A First Friday favorite since 2007!

NOVEMBER 1 BUFFALO RIDGE JAZZ BAND

Buffalo Ridge Jazz Band, who wowed audiences with their great Big Band, Dixieland, and improvisational skills in our First Friday line-up in 2012, will be performing in place of The Faux Frenchmen.  Their show was one of the best last year so you won’t want to miss it!

This concert series wouldn’t be possible without the support of the Middletown Community Foundation, Barnitz Fund, the Miriam G. Knoll Charitable Foundation and the congregation of First United Methodist Church, Middletown. Thank you! Thank you! Thank you for helping us make downtown Middletown a destination for the arts!

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Community Ministries Corner

HELP NEEDED!

Special thanks to John and Mary Nichols, who are retiring after more than 18 months of shopping each week for the pantry ministry. We appreciate your faithful consistency that has helped sustain this ministry the last year and a half.

The Food Pantry is now in need of committed volunteers who would be willing to do the weekly shopping necessary to keep the Pantry shelves stocked. The Nichols are willing to explain their job to any person(s) willing to take over. Pat Beasley, our Pantry Coordinator, provides a weekly shopping list for the buyers, so there’s no guess work. It would be ideal if several people would volunteer so that no one person/couple had to do it every week. We are in need of immediate assistance; if you are interested or have questions, please contact Jaime in the office ASAP at 513-423-4629.

Harvest of the Heart

It’s that time of year when we invite you to participate in Harvest of the Heart.  This extra supply of food stocks the Food Pantry through the winter months when there is an increase in shoppers, as well as helping to stock the Emergency Food Pantry. 

Grocery bags with a list of needed foods will be available for pick up the first two Sundays of October. Food should be returned by Sunday, October 27th and will be dedicated at the Sunday worship service.  Blessings to you for your generous spirit of sharing. 

—Community Ministries Council

Special thanks to the congregation and supporters of these food ministries. Without your donations and volunteer hours these ministries wouldn’t exist.

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October Birthdays

1 Bob Hollenbaugh, Glenn Slama

2 Mary Emmert, Nevin Markle

4 Virginia Jenkins, Jen Tucker

5 Charles Beck

7 Bette Fletcher

11 Wanda Forster, Bob Wieneke

12 Jenny Kerr

15 Hilda Trent

17 Michael McNeil

18 Jeff Dickson

20 Kate Lee

23 Karen Walke

26 Daphne Eldridge, Becky Rutledge

27 Sue Diefenbach, Sue Irwin

Charlene Mackall

30 Kay Fraley, Vera West

31 Janet Green, Jonah Rogers

 

 

 

T

Pastor’s Reflections

Two Minds

As we enter the fall season, I find myself being of two minds. I think of fall as fun and beautiful and nostalgic, with the start of football, the leaves turning, and the sights and smells taking me back to my childhood in a way no other time of the year seems to match. And yet, in my line of work, the autumn season is also a time for preparing church budgets, new programs and nominating reports. Advent is fast approaching. It’s a busy, somewhat anxious time.

So I am of two minds – I look forward to this season, and I also kind of dread it.

It seems to me all of life can be thought of in this way. The future lies before us, as it always does, full of certain anticipated joys as well as the challenges we know must come our way. Depending on our mood, we are usually leaning more to one way of looking at it than the other, but it is never unmixed.

This year, 2013, has so far been decidedly mixed for me and my family. My parents have not been well, and I see a sad day on the horizon. I confess I’d somehow assumed that as a pastor I was more equipped than the average person to deal practically and healthily with personal loss. Turns out I’m as bewildered as anyone.

And yet I’m also discovering something else. I’m finding out I’m not alone, that so many of you know exactly what I’m going through. I’ve come to have more admiration for people in general, and how regularly God grants the courage to live well every day. This has been a great blessing, as I can now imagine this kind of faith working in me. It gives me confidence to view the coming days ahead with genuine anticipation.

This fall we have a famous speaker coming to our church. We are going on a spiritual life retreat together. We are creating new ways to become active in our community. So I say, let us not pretend everything is perfect this year …that would be a false witness. But let also see ourselves as blessed, because we are blessed.

Peace to you,

John Wagner

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Getting To Know You…

The following article is the first in a series of interviews with various long-time church members we will be featuring in the coming months. We hope you will enjoy getting to know them a little bit better.

Everett Sherron became a church member in March 1927, when his family moved here from Hopkinsville, Kentucky, after his father accepted a job as Boy Scout Executive.

Both of his parents had been members of the Methodist churches in Hopkinsville and earlier in Paducah, Kentucky, and so when the family moved here, it was natural for them to join the Middletown congregation, then under the name of the Broadway Methodist Episcopal Church.

Emmett, his father, had been a school principal in Paducah, and his mother, Amy, had been a teacher before having a family. His father became involved with the Boy Scouts of America in 1923 as Scout Executive in Hopkinsville, just 13 years after it was founded. The family moved here with Everett, then 10, the oldest, his two brothers, Marvin and Harold, and a sister, Marie.

“I was closer to my father, Emmett, than my mother. I just followed him. He was my father, and kids did more what their parents did then than they do nowadays.”

His favorite memory is of the Sunday school teacher Earl Grant and the Sunday school classes, which were conducted in a room upstairs behind the choir loft. That was before the church was remodeled and an addition built. Grant was vice president of the Crystal Tissue Co.

“We also had an active Men’s Group.” There were monthly meetings with prominent speakers: judges, Miami University professors, and business leaders. More than 100 men were involved.

Everett followed his father’s interest in Scouting and became a Boy Scout himself when he was 12, joining the church-sponsored Troop 4. Ezra Abraham was its scoutmaster for years.

After graduating from Middletown High School in 1934, he enrolled at Miami University in Oxford and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in business. During World War II he worked in a defense plant in Lockland, Ohio, making aircraft engines. Those were the only years he attended other Methodist churches.

After the war, he started working for Black Clawson, and he retired from there in 1981 in office sales after 35 years of service.

He and his wife, Louise Craig, were married in the church on Feb. 28, 1942, with the Rev. James Simmons officiating. They had two sons, John and Doug, and a daughter, Anne Lapham.

With a growing family, Everett continued his involvement with the Boy Scouts, in all serving 67 years so far as a Scout. He was referred to as “Mr. Scouting” when he received his 60-year Veterans Award pin in 2006. Other awards have included the Vigil Honor Order of the Arrow membership, the Silver Beaver Award, the District Award of Merit for two districts, and the Distinguished Scouter Award. He served twice as Jamboree Troop Leader, in 1973 and 1977.

A photo in his living room shows that Everett has been blessed with a large family. In addition to his three children, there are seven grandchildren, four step-grandchildren, numerous great-grandchildren, and two great-great-grandchildren.

His service to the church has included work with the Historical Committee, and for many years served as an usher. He is also involved in the Middletown Historical Society, and next year will be the 80^th year for his Middletown High School Class of 1934, and he is meeting with four or five other class members to plan the reunion.

 “In the Garden” is his favorite hymn. “It was my father’s favorite song,” he said. “It has a good message.”

By Phyllis Cox

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Overcoming Obstacles

Sunday, October 13, 10:30am

Anthony Munoz, NFL Hall of Fame member and former player for the Cincinnati Bengals, is known for his faith-based charitable works in the Cincinnati area and beyond. With his Anthony Munoz Charitable Foundation, youth have been inspired by programs that emphasize a strong faith and Christian values in daily life since 2002. A California native, Munoz has made his home in Deerfield Township since being a part of the Bengals and retiring in 1992.

We are pleased that Mr. Munoz has agreed to share his story with us in a message about overcoming obstacles. Please make plans to hear this well-known and well-respected servant of God as he presents the message to us that Sunday.

We invite you to stay for a multi-ethnic potluck following worship. Please bring a dish from your country of origin. We will invite all guests at this service to stay, so please bring a little extra so we can show our FUMC hospitality!

Invite Someone to Join You!

 

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“Paper or Plastic?” In Nepal

Update from Dr. Les & Debbie Dornon, missionaries to Nepal working in the Tansen Hospital

When we arrived in Tansen 18 months ago, one thing we noticed was that plastic bags were everywhere – especially thrown down the hillsides and in piles of trash. People would use them for everything from purchases in the bazaar – to using them for “barf bags” on bus trips – throwing them out the window after each use…..

A few weeks ago, the local government here in Tansen decided that plastic bags were to be banned! We didn’t expect this to last – as many other things here in Nepal are just rumors of possible changes or events…. But – this has really stuck! The only things you can now bring home in plastic are milk and yogurt. For everything (including staples like rice, flour, sugar) people now have to bring their own bags – or make do with small, homemade folded paper bags. These are made out of old newspaper or used notebooks and do quite well for not heavy items. (Just to be clear – our staples cannot be purchased in pre-packaged states – they are all sold in bulk.) Amazingly, this plastic bag ban has made a noticeable difference in the level of trash around the town.

This ban on plastic was passed in Kathmandu, as well, but the manufacturers of plastic bags took it to court, and the judge ruled it illegal. I think in the end, Tansen will be the winner here! We always carry our reusable bags now, and think about how good it is that people here are trying to keep their part of God’s creation just a little bit nicer than it was before!

In Him,

लेस (Les) and देबी (Debbie)

P.S. To see more photos and stories, please check our blog: http://dornonnepalmission.wordpress.com/

Remember, every third Sunday of the month we collect donations to support Les and Debbie’s work in Nepal. You may drop your donation in the collection jars or add it to your regular offering using your envelope; just write “Dornons” along with the designated amount.

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A Miracle of Mission

By Mary Jane Frazer for the FUMC Missions Committee

The story below was found in the 2013 UMW Prayer Calendar and reflects the perspective of a university student regarding the work of Becky Harrell, missionary, General Board of Global Ministries, Latin American Biblical University in San Jose, Costa Rica. Your apportionment dollars are used to support such missionaries and the work they do. See the impact they—and you—are making through giving:

“Our liturgical leader helped us to understand that the words of Jesus in Luke 6:17-26 were not meant solely for eternity but are expected of us now. Students studying here at the Universidad Biblica Latinoamericana have personally experienced much of what Jesus is speaking of—rejection, poverty, exclusion, weeping and hunger. They too understand that the richness in their lives is Jesus Christ and because of what they experienced each will return to their homelands to either become pastors or serve the church or social agencies in their barrios (neighborhood), carrying esperanza (hope) to others.”

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Miracles Are Happening Everyday

This evening I had the privilege of attending camp with the Whiz Kids and taking part in their closing celebration. There were four of our kids attending this session. Two of these kids who had attended camp years before stood up as a result of praying and accepting Jesus as savior. Thanks be to God.

Nine of our eleven children attended camp this year thanks to FUMC. Our church pays the fees that the families are responsible to pay. Thanks be to God.

At our last session of Whiz Kids one of our children who, was considered suicidal at the beginning of the school year, said to her tutor “I am so proud of myself.”  Thanks be to God.

One of our kids increased their reading ability by seven levels. Two others had increased 5 levels. And most of them have increased by two or three levels. Thanks be to God.

We had eleven awesome tutors and several substitute tutors that were dedicated and gave their time to these children. Without them none of these miracles could have happened. They are truly the hands and feet of Christ. Thanks be to God.

Debbie Ellis is able to continue as our program’s administrator. Thanks be to God.

We always need more to be involved our ongoing miracles. If you would like to be a part of these miracles please contact Debbie or Carol Byrd. Praise the Lord for all he has done.            

—Carol Byrd

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Care Package Update

Please provide current college/military addresses to the church office this month to help us prepare for the fall mailing of care packages to your loved ones!

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Calling All Cooks!

Everyone is invited to submit recipes for the upcoming UMW Cook Book

Email submissions appreciated (susan@csn1.com) or get an index card and drop your recipe in the box in the North Foyer to be included.

Please bring your Annual Salad Luncheon recipes for a special featured section!

Deadline: September 30^th / Will be available for sale in time for the holidays!

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First Friday Concert Series 2013

SEPTEMBER 6 CINNAMON PEPPO

Our harpist returns to set the mood for Fall with romantic melodies just perfect for the season of cool evenings, changing leaves, and enchantment.

OCTOBER 4 CINCINNATI KLEZMER PROJECT

The Klezmers are back! Hold on to your seats because it will be hard not to move to this infectious, hypnotic music of Eastern Europe and the Jewish culture. A First Friday favorite since 2007!

This concert series would not be possible without the support of the Middletown Community Foundation, the Barnitz Fund, the Miriam G. Knoll Charitable Foundation and the congregation of First United Methodist Church, Middletown. Thank you! Thank you! Thank you for helping us make downtown Middletown a destination for the arts!

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Community Ministries Corner

A Special Garage-Sized THANK YOU!

Thank you to all who donated, helped organize and run the garage sale this year! It took the resources of each person to make this fundraiser happen. We felt it was very successful as we raised over $1300 for the Benevolence Fund that will assist those in need through First UMC’s Community Ministries Council in the coming months.

 

Highview Highlights

The Highview Ministry has had a wonderful start for a new school year. Belinda Hausman organized a wonderful and energetic Day Camp for the 6th graders, with the UMW providing lunch. We had a great turnout of 35 students. John Hoffman organized a fantastic cook-out as part of the Open House on August 13. We had close to 20 volunteers come to help and we served over 600 students, family, and staff in 30 minutes! It was awesome! David Hilton and I had the pleasure to deliver 46 Welcome Back bags to the staff filled with supplies they can use for the students. We saw Day Camp kids, and experienced first-hand the grateful reactions from the staff. Your donations were generous and abundant to the classrooms. We will keep  a donation box out to collect items all year round.

Thank you to all who helped with service, donations, and monetary donations.

Blessings to all our FUMC family,

Lynda Goecke

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September Birthdays

4 Destiny Hurrigan

7 Nina Markle

8 Bob Boonstra

9 Mary Jane Frazer

10 Rachel Dornon, Ursula Glover

11 Lyla Liljestrand

12 Everett Sherron

14 Paul Brewer

15 Joyce Burnett, Gordon Hughes, Robert Livzey

17 John Hoffman

19 Medreth Bingham, Megan McLaughlin

20 Diane Wilson

21 Matthew McDaniel

22 Ruth Kelly

23 Jerry Slama

24 Juanita Harsh

25 Mary Jane Fairchild

26 Melanie Alderton, Jim White

27 Jonathan Goecke

28 Barbara Hoffman

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