Teacher in Tanzania

Free webinar How Adults Learn: The Emotional Aspect of Learning Aug. 28 at 6:30 p.m. Led by Carol Krau General Board of Discipleship http://goo.gl/20tbE. VoL. 13, No. 14 BAtoN RoUGE, LA AUGUSt 17, 2012 2013 Louisiana Skeeter Run slated March 2 statewide

Organizers have begun planning the Louisiana Annual Conference. that the 2013 run/walk will be even bigger! 2013 Louisiana Skeeter Run, setting the Over $60,000 was raised for Imagine “We’re planning after-event parties with date for next year’s event as Saturday, No Malaria, a global initiative of The music and food at each race site. The com- March 2, 2013! United Methodist Church focused on the mittee will definitely build on the success This year’s event exceeded expectations elimination of malaria. of the first run!,” said Merrifield. with more than 2,000 volunteers, runners Gary Merrifield, member of University More information on the event will be and walkers participating in the 5K/Fun United Methodist Church in Baton Rouge coming soon. Questions: Contact Betty Run held in eight cities throughout the and this year’s Skeeter Run chair, promises Backstrom at (225) 346-1646. Youth Ministry / 3 Teacher in Tanzania

Back to School / 5

Mission Workshop / 5

70802-5700 LA Rouge, Baton Blvd. North 527 Centenary alumna Christine Cumming ‘11 is shown with some of her music students at the Wesley Primary School in Morogoro, Tanzania. Cumming had recently served as a missionary in Morogoro, but felt a strong calling to return and finish the job she began. The Centenary graduate was accepted into graduate school and already enrolled in classes when she decided to forego admission for this fall and return to the work in Tanzania to which she felt a calling. Alumna postpones graduate school for mission work

BY DENA PRUETT, CENTENARY COLLEGE EXTERNAL in grades 5-7 at Wesley Primary School. National Exams at the end of seventh RELATIONS “Participating in this mission is one of grade. The exam determines whether stu- the most moving and eye opening experi- dents can attend a government secondary SHREVEPORT, LA — Centenary ences of my life,” said Cumming. school or will have to apply to private alumna Christine Cumming ‘11 was “Although foregoing admission to gradu- school. As private school is too expensive accepted into graduate school and already ate school is a tough decision, I know for many Morogoro students, those who enrolled in classes when she decided to that this is the right one for me and for do not achieve high scores typically do forego admission for the coming fall the students of Morogoro’s Wesley not attend secondary school. semester. Cumming had recently served Primary School. Now that I know what’s Christine has always had an interest in U.S. PoStAGEU.S. PERmit # 575 # PERmit

NoN-PRoFit as a missionary in Morogoro, Tanzania, RoUGE, LA RoUGE,

PAiD here and what I have to work with, it has helping others. While attending but felt a strong calling to return and fin- BAtoN been easier to develop some goals for Centenary, she created March of the Maji ish the job she began. myself.” to raise funds for the 410 Bridge Project Having since returned, she has contin- Part of Cumming’s work at the school and worked with Invisible Children, ued teaching English and helping out involves preparing students for the with the music program for 70 students See Centenary Grad, page 3 2 Louisiana Conference Now! AUGUSt 17, 2012

ON THE JOURNEY Four “E’s” and Bishop Cynthia Fierro Harvey

Bishop Cynthia Fierro Harvey, her advance the gospel of transforming for the onlooker who isn’t and, most of all, about faith in Jesus husband Dean, and daughter Elizabeth Jesus Christ. In addi- sure she/he wants to get fully immersed, Christ. And you never tire of what she were all here a couple of days this week tion to that, we have and yet can’t help herself/himself when has to offer to the conversation because for their introductory visit to the the GREATEST peo- that spark of excitement for what may be her remarks are salient and substantive. Louisiana Annual Conference. We had ple in all the world begins to catch hold. Vision is always She’s going to make all interchanges two full days of introductions to staff, right here in the that way. It calls us from our complacent about how to make Disciples of Jesus meeting with the Appointive Cabinet, vis- Pelican state! I totally surroundings into an intentional involve- Christ for the transformation of the world iting the Episcopal residence, eating some understand why she is ment of ourselves in the challenges ahead. exciting and probing indeed! great Louisiana food, seeing some of the EAGER to come. One thing I learned about Bishop Harvey Now, I just can’t wait for her to meet area around the residence and even a visit She is was that she can voice her vision in such a YOU! When she fully engages the people to Mike the Tiger! There is yet so much Bishop William “Enthusiastic” about way that it is exciting to hear and makes of the Louisiana Annual Conference she is more to see and experience, but that little W. Hutchinson what we are doing as you want to get on board. I’d sign up for going to find a wealth of Christian love, smattering of our special way of life whet- an Annual Conference. her band wagon! Just give me a pen and grace and charm as well as a gracious ted the Harveys’ appetites enough to make I introduced her once again to the District paper and I’d be all in! offering of hearts, souls, minds, and spirits them return to Houston with hearts on fire Superintendents and left them to visit for And she is “Engaging.” Your mind to the melting and molding love of God. for bayous and Bengals (and Green what was to be an hour. Two hours later doesn’t drift much when you are in a con- And when that meeting happens, I pray Waves, Bulldogs, Gents, Lady Gents, she emerged from the Cabinet Room with versation with Bishop Harvey. She can there will be sparks leading to the flame Wildcats, Ragin’ Cajuns, etc.). Don Cottrill and I heard her first com- engage you with her poignant and pointed of the Holy Spirit that will lift the I learned several things about Bishop ment, “That was GREAT!” Don’s questions that push just the right buttons. Louisiana Annual Conference to new Harvey in my personal visits with her, but response was, “Yes, it was great.” When She can engage you with her personal sto- heights in prayers, presence, gifts, service at least four “E’s” come immediately to they reached the door of my office her ries of her own life and how she became a and witness until the prayer of Jesus is the my mind. She is “Eager.” She said to face was beaming with enthusiasm. She person of faith and practice. She will prayer on your lips when you arise each me on her departure, “Well, I am eager to spoke of the meaningful dialogue they fully engage you when she shares about day – “Thy Kingdom come, thy will be get here and get started. This visit has had just enjoyed and of the many chal- UMCOR (of which she has been the done on Earth as it is in Heaven.” May it been great and makes we realize just how lenging and meaningful things that were Executive Director) and the work of The be so. And when it is, the Journey will be fortunate I am to be coming to being done by the Cabinet and by the United Methodist Church all around the ever sweeter until at last we all come to Louisiana!” I couldn’t agree more! This Conference. Her eyes virtually twinkled world, and the lives that are being the foot of that magnificent throne that is a GREAT Conference and one that as she smiled at me and said something to changed and that are changing others holds the King of Glory before whom we deserves a great leader! When I look the effect of, “This is going to be a won- through this marvelous ministry. She is cast our golden crowns beside the glassy around our Connection and when I visit derful assignment for me.” Yes, Bishop engaging in every conversation she has sea. What a day of rejoicing that will be! with other Bishops across the United Harvey, it will!! because she is a person of integrity, of In Christ’s love, States, it becomes more and more appar- She is “Exciting” to be around. Her insight, of foresight, and of seriousness. ent that we have a great strength of faith “Enthusiasm” isn’t just for herself. It is She can engage you in a conversation commitment, mission outreach, and will- translated into an invitation to others to about sports of most any kind, about ingness to do whatever is necessary to join in the forward movement and is world politics, about national concerns, Bill Hutchinson

L.E.A.D. 2012 In Memoriam Rev. oscar tippin, Jr. July 21, 2012 Nov. 2-3, 2012 Rev. Bill mcDonald July 22, 2012 Catherine Wallace July 26, 2012

Louisiana Conference Now!

William W. Hutchinson Resident Bishop

Don Cottrill Provost

Betty Backstrom Editor

Louisiana Conference NOW! is the newspaper of the Louisiana Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church and is published twice a month. Subscriptions are $20 for one year, $30 for two years. An exciting leadership development opportunity! (Please make checks payable to Louisiana Annual Conference.) Send subscriptions, news and information to: Sponsored by the Louisiana Conference Editor 527 North Boulevard Strengthening the Black Church Task Force Baton Rouge, LA 70802 E-mail: [email protected] The Wesley Center (888) 239-5286 ext. 227 (225) 346-1646, (225) 383-2652 fax Woodworth, Louisiana You can find the Louisiana Annual Conference on the Internet at Visit www.la-umc.org for additional information! http://www.la-umc.org AUGUSt 17, 2012 Louisiana Conference Now! 3

Youth ministry must be top priority for every United Methodist church

According to Rev. Ed Fashbaugh, events. They can serve as district youth conference youth ministry. CCYM mem- self esteem. “The kids have such a sense of author of Creating an Authentic Youth coordinators or associate coordinators. bers decide which applicants to award accomplishment. They can say, ‘Look what Ministry, “teen empowerment” is more Volunteers are needed to offer secretarial grant money from the Youth Service Fund. I did with and for God. I’ve seen introvert- than just putting young people on the assistance by making copies and nametags “Serving on CCYM is an amazing opportu- ed kids literally blossom,” said Harper. church council. Empowerment is guiding or by preparing packets for district or con- nity for personal and spiritual growth with District-wide and conference-wide teens in their own faith formation and ference events. There is a job for every car- a heavy dose of leadership development,” youth events provide an opportunity for allowing them to awaken to God’s presence ing adult that believes in providing strong, said Harper. “connectionalism” within and among our and call in their lives. meaningful youth ministry.” Louisiana’s youth do an outstanding job conference churches, she added. “The kids Rev. Fashbaugh also advocates the idea Folks hoping to volunteer as district of developing, planning and leading confer- who have been active in conference min- that healthy youth ministry understands the level coordinators or associate coordinators ence youth ministry, according to Harper. istries or CCYM always say that they con- difference between youth activity and should contact their district superintendent, But it takes adults working behind the stantly run into friends they have made youth ministry. Just keeping kids “busy” is according to Harper. Those interested in scenes to support them in their efforts! when they travel to other churches, or simply not enough. helping with secretarial jobs should also “More and more of the work of the when they ultimately go to college. They Jodie Harper, Louisiana Conference contact their district. Or, if wishing to help CCYM is going to be placed in the hands stay connected through social media.” director of Youth Ministry, concurs with with conference events, contact Harper at of the districts and local churches. So we In addition to expanded friendships, Fashbaugh’s philosophy. “Helping our (225) 346-1646 or [email protected] need everyone’s help,” said Harper. conference and district youth events pro- youth grow in their faith and assisting them District and conference event coordina- She added that adults working with vide churches with ready made opportuni- on their spiritual journey . . . this is the tors are also looking for local church praise youth should possess the following charac- ties for local church youth programs. most important job of the church today.” bands or Wesley Foundation bands to pro- teristics: patience, flexibility, a sense of “Churches don’t have to go to the expense It may sound trite to some, but youth lit- vide music, and are also looking for humor, and a loving manner. of creating events. All of the leading and erally are the future of the church. Local engaged speakers. “As adults working with youth, we teaching is done. Parents and counselors church youth groups, district-wide min- “Every church in the Louisiana Annual empower the teens to make decisions in just need to provide transportation and istries and conference sponsored events and Conference should have two youth and one planning and implementing every confer- chaperones,” said Harper. retreats are the main vehicles through adult attending District Council on Youth ence event. Adults do not lead. They are The Louisiana Conference CCYM has which teens access opportunities for spiri- Ministry (DCYM) meetings. Unfortunately, there to help by answering questions, recognized that event prices need to be tual growth so that they can become the most churches are not doing this. To assisting with evaluation, and to help if kept affordable and more opportunities church leaders of tomorrow. engage your church in DCYM meetings, there is an emergency. Workers with youth need to be presented to decrease the travel Having a healthy youth ministry in any contact your district youth coordinator must always remember-- This is not chil- time for some local churches. Youth minis- local church requires high involvement through your district office,” said Harper. dren’s ministry. We are leading our youth ters, counselors and parents are encouraged from committed and growing adults. Each DCYM is responsible for planning toward self reliance,” said Harper. to include planned conference events in “People often shy away from volunteer- district youth events. From the DCYM, the Rev. Tom Dolph, Harper’s predecessor their local church activities calendar. ing for their local church, district or confer- Conference Council on Youth Ministry in the Youth Ministry position, gave her This year’s theme is Faithbook using ence youth ministries because they don’t (CCYM) representatives are elected. this advise: “Don’t forget to sit back, enjoy Luke 10:27 as the scripture--focusing on feel qualified or able to work with teens. The CCYM plans and facilitates confer- and watch for God.” learning how to love God with all our Honestly, there is a task for every person ence events. Members of the CCYM “If I’ve done my job correctly and hearts, souls, minds and strength. Listed and every personality,” said Harper. receive leadership training and training on trained the youth properly, then they will below are the events that are available for “Parents can serve as counselors in their leading small groups. They focus on spiri- know what to do,” said Harper.. any youth in our conference throughout the local church. They can be chaperones or tual formation. They are the core group Through healthy youth ministry, partici- drivers for local, district or conference responsible for making decisions regarding pants receive the extra bonus of a bolstered See Youth Ministry, page 8

Centenary Grad, from page 1 Tanzania, Christine answered: “It is kind of a culmination of the which helps build refugee camps in whole experience. There are many days at Uganda. These experiences combined the school where I just know that I’m with others helped Cumming develop doing what I need to be doing. When I am invaluable leadership skills. walking around—even though I stand out “During my time at Centenary, I had like a sore thumb—I just get this feeling many leadership opportunities,” said inside that I belong here.” Christine. “I led Centenary Women Christine is maintaining a blog, United Bible Study for three years and Tanzania Adventure in Missions, detailing served as treasurer and president of her current work. She also continues to Sigma Alpha Iota. These opportunities raise funds to cover the costs of her mis- helped me build my confidence and sion work. grow into a well-organized, strong per- Editor’s Note: Christine is a member son, who is not afraid to take on chal- of St. Timothy on the Northshore UMC in lenges. Living and teaching in Tanzania Mandeville, La. The church is providing is quite the challenge but totally worth partial financial support for Christine’s it!” ministry in Tanzania. Asked what called her to return to 4 Louisiana Conference Now! AUGUSt 17, 2012 St. Paul UMC, Jeanerette and Asbury UMC, Franklin focus on mission

St. Paul United Methodist Church of Jeanerette and Asbury UMCof Franklin held a special joint misssion workshop Aug. 4 for youth from the age of 14 through college. The theme for the “Day of Service” was “I Can’t Live Without Him.” The event included preparing a meal to serve members of the community, worship, meeting new friends and fun activities. “We want our youth to understand the importance of serving others,” said Rev. Darrel Briggs, Sr., pastor. Squyres UMC - Ragley

Wesley UMC - DeRidder

Wesley United Methodist Church in ing the summer. The church fed an aver- DeRidder completed its second year of a age of 20 this summer, but the real story is neighborhood summer feeding program for not the numbers. The real story is the con- approximately 20 children. nections built and relationships grown. In Located in an economically struggling 2012, the program grew through arts and Squyres United Methodist Church host- saw the needs of hungry school children in neighborhood, Wesley was challenged by crafts, singing and a true love for Jesus ed the HUNGER BITES! Walk-A-Thon on the Ragley-Longville area. Inspired by Rev. Steven Spurlock, Lake Charles Christ. Member, Mary Wells, a talented July 14 benefitting the South Beauregard other area feeding programs, organizers District Superintendent, to find a mission and artistic woman, with a kind spirit and Elementary School Knight-Packs program. planned to send home a backpack filled that would make a difference in the com- true love for children, created activities for The event, which drew more than 130 par- with food each weekend during the school munity in 2011. Monica Bailey, church the children. Through food, Christian fel- ticipants, also served as Squyres’ Town and year. The original goal for the Knight Pack member and a teacher at Rosepine lowship and fun, Wesley United Methodist Country community service and outreach program was $6,000, which would feed 30 Elementary, brought her love of children Church was blessed by the neighborhood event. children. To date, Squyres has raised over and food to the table and created Wesley’s summer feeding program. The church The Knight-Packs program began when $10,000, with $2,000 of the funding com- summer feeding program for kids and fam- looks forward to next year. church members and area school teachers ing from walk-a-thon proceeds! ilies Monday, Wednesday and Friday dur- St. Charles UMC, Destrahan sponsors 9.11K fun run, walk and bike

St. Charles United Methodist Church ers are also encouraged to bring food Shirts need to be ordered by Aug. 18, so A registration and waiver form can in Destrahan, 1905 Ormond Blvd., is items for donation to St. Charles UMC’s be sure to register right away. be found on the conference website at sponsoring its third annual 9.11K Fun Matthew 25:35 Food Pantry. Registration is $12 per person, $6 for www.la-umc.org Run-Walk-Bike on Sept. 8 at 7:30 a.m. The church is still in need of volun- children aged 10 and under. Groups that If you have any questions, or want to Participants are asked to wear “red, teers to bring flyers to businesses, put sign up 10 or more people can register for volunteer, please contact the church at white and blue” in memory of the tragic signs in their yard, work water stations, $6 a person. You will receive a flag, t- (985) 764-8292 or email Mary Anne at events of 9/11. Runners, walkers and bik- help cook and assist with registration. shirt and refreshments after the walk. [email protected] AUGUSt 17, 2012 Louisiana Conference Now! 5

Hope Community United Methodist Church recently partnered with University UMC to host “Gett!ng Exc!ted about Learn!ng Expo,” an event focused on assisting an underserved population of Baton Rouge, La. Parents and children are shown, top left, registering for the May 29 event held at Hope Community UMC. Rev. Lewis Jones, pastor, is shown, right, praying with one of the participants during a worship service at the end of the event. Revs. Lee McKenzie and Van Stinson, University’s associate and senior pastors, look on. Hope Community and University UMCs sponsor learning exposition

Hope Community United Methodist dents before their school performance school supplies and haircuts. It was more pray that our participation in this event can Church recently partnered with University begins to drop,” said Rev. Jones, who about expanding relationships with adults, lead to future ministry endeavors and pos- UMC to host “Gett!ng Exc!ted about added that the church plans to hold report youth and children in this zip code. It was sible partnerships that will help to strength- Learn!ng Expo,” an event focused on card recognition events on Sundays. about some of the children finding Jesus. It en the Christian witness and missional assisting an underserved population of Parents and students also participated in was about helping parents commit to play- presence of The United Methodist Church Baton Rouge, La. an informative session which evolved into ing an active role in their child’s educa- in the neighborhood and in the communi- “The expo targeted the 70805 zip code a “full-blown” worship experience. tion,” said Rev. Jones. ty.” in Baton Rouge, which was recently named Amber Thomas, whose brother is a Rev. Van Stinson, senior pastor of During the event, participants heard the highest crime area in East Baton Rouge member of Hope Community’s youth pro- University UMC, commented, “Through information presented by Rev. Jones about Parish,” said Rev. Lewis Jones, Hope gram, spoke about the importance of par- our 30 year partnership with University a young adult ministry that is developing at Community’s pastor. ents, students, teachers and counselors Terrace Elementary School, we have been Hope Community. “It started out as a co-ed More than 300 parents and students working together to ensure a child’s aca- made acutely aware of the challenges so softball team for young people aged 16-25. attended the May 29 event held at Hope demic success. The importance of career many students and families in our commu- The group has been meeting every Sunday. Community UMC. The kids received free planning and development was also nity face every year as the start of school Because of a lack of softball teams to play book bags, school supplies and haircuts. stressed. looms on the horizon. When we learned of with, the ministry has turned into an oppor- Hope Community announced plans for a Hope Community’s children’s choir per- the bold endeavors that Pastor Jones and tunity for fellowship and fun. We have new “proactive” tutoring ministry spon- formed during the celebration as several Hope Community UMC were planning, popcorn and hot dogs, talk and share about sored by the church. “This tutoring min- students and parents came forward for and the potential impact that the Expo life. The ministry provides a social envi- istry will provide help to students starting prayer and information on Baptism. could have in the community, we wanted to ronment in a safe place, rather than on the in September. Our goal is to work with stu- “The expo was not just about free do what we could to help. We hope and street corners.”

Henning Memorial United Methodist Church partnered this summer with Hope House of Sulphur to provide food for children attending Hope’s summer day camp. Church members provided a pizza lunch for the kids every Wednesday the camp was in session. Targeting underserved children in the Sulphur area, Hope House provides tutoring, guitar lessons, art, language classes, Bible study and more during the school year. Henning Memorial UMC partners with the Hope House of Sulphur

Henning Memorial United Methodist the facility by the director, Mrs. Taylor. Hope’s “Summer In The Sun” summer During the school year, Monday Church partnered this summer with Hope Hope House is a ministry for underserved day camp offers academics, enrichment through Thursday, free tutoring is offered at House of Sulphur to provide food for chil- children and adults that grew out of the and life skill activities, cultural arts, recre- the “Old School.” Every Tuesday, Cub dren attending Hope’s summer day camp. vision of the Sulphur Christian Community ation, service projects, field trips and Bible Scouts and American Heritage Girls meet Every Wednesday, the church’s Coalition. The focus of the ministry is studies. Paula Taylor, camp director, at the facility. Other activities offered Outreach Committee delivered pizzas to helping people physically, emotionally and explained that most of the camp leaders include guitar lessons, weight training and the camp at lunchtime. At the end of the spiritually. who volunteer are teachers. Parents of the art. Hope House also offers adult and teen summer, Henning Memorial also provided Hope House has two locations—a site children are asked to volunteer one hour of Bible studies, language classes, game night a picnic lunch for the children with grilled once allegedly known for illegal activities their time each week at either the day camp and other activities designed to meet com- hamburgers and all the trimmings. and a former elementary school called or at Hope House. Other than that, the munity needs. Church members were given a tour of “The Old School Community Center.” camp is free for their children. 6 Louisiana Conference Now! AUGUSt 17, 2012

Church agencies look forward, not back: ‘Bureaucracy of The UMC is changing’

BY LINDA BLOOM grow, that there’s this huge bureaucracy, but the truth is that we’ve gone from 3,100 Despite the recent collapse of an overall agency staff to 1,300 over the last 40 strategy for restructuring, the bureaucracy years,” said Jim Winkler, Board of Church of The United Methodist Church is chang- and Society. ing. Although some agencies submitted their Shrinking boards of directors — in own legislation to reduce the size of their some cases, to tiny proportions — are boards of directors, Winkler believes a requiring adjustments in governance and “mob mentality” prevailed at General representation for the denomination’s agen- Conference over the idea that agency cies and commissions. boards had to be shrunk as a cost-cutting Budget constraints dictate a streamlining measure. of priorities and realignment of staffing The Board of Church and Society, needs. which retains a 63-member board, already Renewed commitments to bilateral and had slashed its meeting costs by 40 percent, multi-agency cooperation are focusing he said. “I think we’re going to find out attention on shared services and common we’ve lost a lot of connections to annual missional priorities. conferences and local churches by having Gil Hanke, who chairs the General fewer people represented on our boards.” Secretaries Table, a forum for the church’s Hanke, who leads the Commission on top staff executives, said its members are United Methodist Men, observed that the working “with renewed interest” on issues full impact of the board reductions did not perceived to be unresolved and new areas General agency executives confer during a recess of the 2012 United Methodist become real until jurisdictional conferences of interaction. “I’m kind of excited about General Conference in Tampa, Fla., following the Judicial Council’s decision that made appointments this July. Still, he is a proposed restructuring plan was unconstitutional in this May 2012 file photo. where we are right now,” he told United pleased with the caliber and diversity of his From left are: Karen Greenwaldt, Thomas Kemper, Larry Hollon, Gil Hanke, Bob Methodist News Service. slightly smaller board of directors. Williams, Erin Hawkins and M. Garlinda Burton. A UMNS file photo by Kathleen The Call to Action, an effort to reform Erin Hawkins, top executive of the Barry. the denomination, led to restructuring legis- Commission on Religion and Race, said lation presented this spring to the 2012 In the few months since General in the works, including: she was disappointed about how the discus- United Methodist General Conference in Conference concluded, members of the •Creating a scholarship web portal to sion over the need for realignment of the Tampa, Fla. General Conference is the General Secretaries Table have discussed allow “one-stop shopping” for United general church was redirected during the denomination’s top lawmaking body. sharing services and are evaluating pro- Methodist students. course of the legislative meeting. The church’s top executives sometimes grammatic overlaps to address accusations •Pooling resources for leading United “What it came down to at General found themselves on the defensive as the about the redundancy of agency programs. Methodist churches in Africa. Conference, it seemed, was ‘where can we legislation was debated and shaped into “We need to look at those perceptions, and •Starting 1,000 new churches between start to cut,’ which is really not a conversa- Plan UMC. if they’re the reality, we need to deal with 2013 and 2016. tion about the ministry of the church,” she “There’s this narrative that the general it,” Hanke said. •Spurring young adults to create a rele- said. agencies continue to grow and grow and A number of collaborations already are vant church through the Spark12 program. Asbury UMC in Lafayette seeks CAO Support Hagar’s House by attending Asbury United Methodist Church, Certification in N.A.C.B.A. highly Lafayette is seeking qualified applicants for desirable. Women Performing for Women 2012 the position of Chief Administrative For a copy of job description and/or to Officer (CAO). submit a resume, contact: Experience in church accounting sys- Rev. Richard Humphries @ richard- tems, facilities management, and in the [email protected] September 27, 2012 supervision of staff preferred. 101 Live Oak Blvd., Lafayette, LA 6-9:30 p.m. 70503 (337) 984-421 St. Matthew’s UMW hosts VBS First Grace United Methodist Church United Methodist Women from St. Toni Dickerson, church member. “These 3401 Canal Street Matthew’s United Methodist Church in young people were so anxious to share, so New Orleans, Louisiana Metairie recently hosted Vacation Bible receptive, giving lots of hugs and great par- School for youth served by the Methodist ticipation. A couple of the young men Home for Children in Mandeville. came up with a rap to ‘I’ll Fly Away’ and This event will again be a beautiful night of music, Participants wore t-shirts with the VBS shared it with us. We also had a ‘second theme, “SKY: Everything is possible with line’ with umbrellas around the hall.” food and celebration to benefit the women and children God.” The youth created decoupage The youth served by the Mandeville “happy tiles” from cut-out pictures of home are temporarily housed and served at of Hagar’s House. This year's entertainment includes “things that make me happy.” the Southeast Louisiana Hospital in This year’s VBS was the fifth such Mandeville. Topsy Chapman & Solid Harmony, Leslie Smith, event sponsored by St. Matthew’s , said Kimberley Longstreth, Meghan Swartz, Cassandra Faulconer and other talented women of New Orleans. Roberts UMC celebrates 118 years Robert’s UMC, 201 Julia Street in will be Rev. Hadley Edwards, the newly Denham Springs, invites all to its annual appointed District Superintendent of the For more information, contact First Grace UMC at Founder’s Day as its celebrates 118 years New Orleans District. Come join us as we of service to the Lord. This celebration praise and thank God for 118 years of serv- (504) 488-0856. will take place on August 19th at 11:00, ice to the upbuidling of His kingdom. our theme is “Living for the Praise of His Robert’s is pastored by Rev. Deborah Glory”. The speaker for the celebration Williams. AUGUSt 17, 2012 Louisiana Conference Now! 7

Pastor mourns friend killed in Aurora shooting

was friends with everybody and was authentic in naturally to her. She spent Friday with a young woman that friendliness. He was just an all-around lov- who was still somewhat new to the area and was waiting ing and compassionate guy.” for relatives to fly in. On Saturday, she made the rounds of For the Rev. Michael Dent, senior pastor of four different hospitals, talking with friends and other vic- Trinity United Methodist Church in downtown tims of the shootings and their families. Denver, the Aurora shootings were not quite as Most of those she knew among the 58 people wounded personal. But, his own life experiences have in the attack were sent home within a few days, but two taught him that “bad things sometimes happen remain hospitalized and “have a long journey of healing to randomly,” he told United Methodist News go.” Service. Addressing collective grief Dent’s brother was murdered, his sister suf- United Methodist churches in the area are beginning to fered a sexual assault and, a few years ago, his assist with the spiritual healing. In a July 20 letter, Denver son was violently attacked in Denver. He also Area Bishop Elaine Stanovsky urged leaders of the denom- led in 1999 a session on grief and coping for sur- ination’s Rocky Mountain Annual (regional) Conference to vivors after a day trader shot 22 people and address the community’s collective grief and “use your killed nine in two attacks at the offices of securi- biblical imagination to generate creative responses to this ties firms in Atlanta. crisis.” The church must respond to the anguish and At Trinity, Dent composed a letter to his congregation, despair that accompanies such loss, Dent said in asking them to pray, worship and express their faith and to his July 22 sermon. give blood; rewrote his Sunday sermon; chose new hymns “The call we share is the same one this com- and issued a notice about the special plans for worship. munity had after Columbine 13 years ago and I “People needed to be together,” he said. “That’s been a had following the mass shooting in Atlanta and major blessing for this.” our nation had after the 9/11 attack and every Attendance at the service was up to more than 700, similar devastating loss — it is the word of the compared to the weekly figure of 550 this summer. “We Lord to Isaiah the prophet. The command is this: had a number of first-time guests…so I know we had folks To bring good news to the oppressed, to bind up coming for solace and comfort, encouragement and hope.” the brokenhearted, to comfort all who mourn.” A full-page ad placed in the July 23 edition of the Fearing the worst Denver Post by United Methodist Communications helped The uncertainty in the immediate aftermath of spread the denominational message. the shootings made July 20 a difficult day for “A lot of us felt very proud to be United Methodist,” everyone touched by the tragedy. Dent said about the ad. “It was very simple, very eye- Jackson first learned of the shootings through catching and, I think, very appropriate.” United Methodist Communications took out a full-page ad in the a panicked phone call from a close friend and In a joint effort with hospice organizations, Trinity has Denver Post expressing support for the people of Aurora, Colo. began searching social media for information on been open from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.these past weeks for after the July 20 shooting that killed 12 people. friends from her previous employment at area walk-in grief support. The church also has made its profes- For the Rev. Elizabeth Jackson, the sadness of losing a restaurants. sional counselors and Stephen ministers available for con- friend in the Colorado movie theater shootings has become On foursquare, she determined that Sullivan had gone versation and scheduled a “Living with Loss” seminar on a portion of her life’s journey. to that particular showing of the Batman movie. “He was Aug. 11. Only three weeks into her appointment as the pastor of the first person I realized had been involved,” she said. A healing celebration to help children and teens process the Edgewater (Colo.) United Methodist Church, the Jackson had worked with Sullivan at Red Robin and the shootings and the Colorado wildfires is was held Aug. tragedy also has added a different dimension to the get- learned that a group of co-workers had joined him in the 12 at First United Methodist Church in Colorado Springs. acquainted period for her and her supportive congregation. birthday celebration. But, no one could find him after the The event is organized by the Rev. Leanne Hadley, a “There’s a beauty and a sorrow,” she reflected. “While shootings. The pleas for assistance from his father, Tom church staff member and director of First Steps Spirituality it (the loss) is not the identifying characteristic of what I Sullivan, who showed a photo of his son to the media, Center. am, it’s a piece of who I am.” received national news coverage. Jackson is optimistic that she, her friends and the com- Jackson, 31, who graduated from Denver’s Iliff School She remained in touch with Sullivan’s wife, Cassandra, munity will heal over time. “Many of the people I know of Theology in 2011 with a master of divinity degree, was who was with his parents. “We spent the majority of the from Red Robin are fighters and strong individuals,” she a close friend and former co-worker of Alex “Sully” day thinking he was missing,” she added. “With that, said. “I am amazed at the spirit and will to heal from the Sullivan, one of 12 killed July 20 when a gunman opened there’s a lot of hope, there’s a lot of denial and there’s a lot variety of wounds we have suffered.” fire during an early-morning showing of the new Batman of anxiousness. I think that’s probably the most painful movie in Aurora. part about Friday.” Sullivan died on his 27th birthday. “Alex was one of There were others to care for after the tragedy, and those guys you aspire to be like,” Jackson recalled. “He Jackson said that type of “face-to-face” interaction comes SuccessfulChurchMergers...andMore! World Class Are you a small church looking for alternatives? Church Leadership Don't be down ... look around! God has more possibilities than Workshops you may imagine! Learn about church mergers and pitfalls to avoid. Sunday, September 16, 6:00 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. Canal Mosaic EơectiveChurchStewardshipandFundRaising Are you struggling to sustain a church in tough times? 4302 Canal Street, New Orleans, Louisiana 70119 Learn the principles and best practices that keep churches going and growing! 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See Youth Ministry, page 3 Join us as we “continue the conversation” on coming year: church leadership begun by Rev. Adam *Youth Ignite!(will take place in three Hamilton, pastor of the Church of the locations) Resurrection, at the 2012 Louisiana Northern Kingdom @ Splash Kingdom Conference session. Founding and senior in Shreveport, Aug. 18 from 11a.m.-7 p.m. Southern Kingdom @ Camp Istrouma, pastor of the 8,000 member United Aug. 24 from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Methodist churchin Leaward, Kansas, Rev. Western Kingdom @ Camp Uskichitto, Hamilton’s insights have provided ideas to Aug. 25 from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. pastors and laity for transforming local There will be worship, water activities, churches of all sizes. The Church of the lunch, t-shirt and more. . .all for $25 and Resurrection has become a teaching church, one canned good for the Food Bank. providing ongoing opportunities for teams *Junior High Retreats from local churches. The Wesley Center, Woodworth, La. October 26-28 and November 9-11 Join us for “Leading Beyond the Walls,” This event will look very different this a seminar led by staff members from the year! This year’s emphasis will be on mission and we will be participating in actual Church of the Resurrection. mission projects. Small groups will be assigned a country, there will be passports, When: October 26-27 worship, great food, games – including 9- Where: Alexandria, Louisiana Square, fellowship, a nighttime trip to the cross and much more. Local churches are encouraged to bring teams of *Senior High Retreats leaders, including the pastor and up to four lay Location TBA leaders. Please bring persons who are prepared Scheduled for February 15-17 and to consider alternate ways of doing church in March 1-3, but if held in two locations, order to reach the unchurched in your community. will only be one weekend. This event will focus on leadership and For registration and information, visit what God’s word says about being lead- www.la-umc.org ers, wherever we may be. It will help participants mature in their Christian faith and learn how to be leaders at school, at home and in future workplaces. The retreats feature small groups, worship, games, great food, fellowship – all this and much more! *Confirmation Day with the Bishop The Wesley Center, Woodworth, La. Confirmation classes from all over the state come for this one-day event which includes worship and workshops about “Who We Be in the UMC.” Cost is $25, which includes a t-shirt, lunch and activities. *Awakening Retreat The Wesley Center, Woodworth, La. Jan. 4-6, 2013 Awakening is a process of identifying and walking with young people as they search and discover their calling in life. We believe something good happens to us when we explore, listen, share and serve. Cost is around $40. *Happening Retreat The Wesley Center, Woodworth, La. January 18-20 and July 12-14, 2013 The Happening Experience is a power- ful instrument of renewal in the Church. The weekend theme is developed through a series of talks which compare the changing nature of material and social reality as compared to the permanent nature of spiritual reality, a firm foundation on which teens can build a secure foundation on life. The Happening staff is made up of teenagers 10-12th grades. Adults are present to support the weekend, including Spiritual Directors. Happening provides a method through which one's spirituality may be developed, lived and shared. Additional information about all of these events can be found on the conference website at www.la-umc.org. Contact information for your district coordinator can also be found on the site. Contact Jodie Harper at (225) 346-1646 or [email protected].