For the latest information regarding disaster response efforts, visit the La. Conference web site at www.la-umc.org or contact the UM Disaster Response Center at (225) 346-5193 VOL. 11, No. 21 BATON ROUGE, LA NOVEMBER 12, 2010 HOPE Ministries offers workshop on poverty

Along with those born into generational Very often, we categorize those in behavior or choices. We forget that anyone poverty, people can find themselves living poverty, said Janet Simmons, director of can find themselves in situational poverty in poverty for many different reasons. Operations and Social Enterprise for HOPE after a major life change such as the loss of Unexpectedly, anyone can lose a job, get a Ministries, a United Methodist non-profit a job.” divorce, or experience a disaster of some organization located in Baton Rouge. “We kind. attribute their living in poverty to poor See HOPE Ministries, page 8 Dillard University/ 3 Feeding the Poor

Children’s Home / 7

Bishop/Senator meet /8 70802-5700 LA Rouge, Baton Blvd. North 527

Church members from First in Pineville ready plates for serving during their annual community Thanksgiving lunch called “Share the Blessing.” To make this special meal possible, church members donate money, decorate tables, cook, serve, clean up and assemble “take-home” bags of groceries. First UMC - Pineville hosts 300 for Thanksgiving meal

First United Methodist Church in “The church membership has been “Take-home bags are provided for each Pineville is currently gearing up for 300 wonderful! They don’t even run from me family that comes to the lunch. A grocery guests for Thanksgiving lunch. any more when they see me coming with list is tacked to a sack, basically listing This annual event, called “Share the a tinfoil pan,” joked Lorrie McKay, the ingredients for a holiday meal. Blessing,” started over 12 years ago Missions Committee chair. “I am com- Congregation members pick up a bag and when church members Tony and Lelani pletely amazed each fall. The ranks just bring it back filled with the things on the U.S. POSTAGE U.S.

PERMIT # 575 # PERMIT Evans acted on their dream to provide a come together to provide a great time for list,” said Rev. Ricky Willis, . NON-PROFIT ROUGE, LA ROUGE, PAID holiday meal for the needy in the area. our guests.” The church has dressing and dessert BATON Contacts were made to various com- To make this special meal possible, recipes that have been carefully handed munity agencies to obtain names for the church members donate money, decorate down and used each year. A copy of one guest list. Invitations went out, and a tra- tables, cook, serve, clean up and assem- dition was started. ble “take-home” bags of groceries. See Sharing, page 5 NOVEMBER 12, 2010 2 Louisiana Conference Now!

Letter supports International Day of Prayer

Dear Fellow United Methodists, In Paul’s letter to the believers in Corinth he discusses the bonds that bind together followers of . He tells the Corinthians, “If one member suffers, all suffer together with it; if one member is honored, all rejoice together with it” (1 Corinthians 12:26). Earlier in the letter Paul addresses the issues the believers in Corinth faced and many, if not most, had to do with internal divisions. Corinthians seemed to be divided into two camps: some following Paul and some following Apollos. Yet, in spite of those divisions, Paul reminds the believers that though they might have serious disagreements with one another, there is something larger that binds them together: their relationship with Jesus. Therefore, when one of them suf- fers, the other members suffer as well. As two followers of Jesus, who have disagreements concerning some of the issues facing society as well as The United Methodist Church, we nevertheless agree heartily with Paul. We want to urge the Church to prayerfully and publicly stand with the members of the Body of Christ suffering right now. Brothers and sisters in Christ are suffering through persecution in places like Saudi Arabia, China, Pakistan, Vietnam, Burma and Iran. The U.S. Department of State labels countries where religious persecution occurs as “Countries of Particular Concern.” The list includes China, Burma, Saudi Arabia, Iran, Eritrea, North Korea, Sudan and Uzbekistan. In these countries, and many more, we have brothers and sisters in Christ who are being economically and politically marginalized, physically brutalized, and even killed simply because they follow Jesus. Whether you are liberal or conserva- tive, progressive or evangelical — if you are of Paul or of Apollos — it does not matter. Their suffering is ours and we must do all we can to end it. Groups urge prayer for religious freedom We encourage you and your congregation on Nov. 14 to participate with other Christians in the International Day of Prayer for the Persecuted Church (www.per- The United Methodist Board of Church approached Mefford with the idea for the secutedchurch.org/). We urge you and your congregation to pray specifically for: and Society and The Confessing joint statement, and Mefford agreed. God’s protection for those being persecuted and for the protection of their fami- Movement agree on one point: United Mefford said the board often works with lies and worshipping communities. Methodists need to pray for persecuted varied groups on shared policy goals. The An end to all forms of persecution and for religious freedom for all faiths to be Christians. agency has worked with the evangelical adopted by all nations. In a joint letter, the frequent adversaries Prison Fellowship on issues of criminal- The greater mobilization of Christians, especially United Methodists, to stand acknowledge their disagreements on some justice reform and has cooperated with the with those who are persecuted, and demand an end to religious persecution in all of issues facing society and The United Southern Baptist Convention to secure fed- its forms. Methodist Church. eral regulation of tobacco. We also urge you to let us know that you and your church are participating: But the groups share a desire for “the Religious freedom is something on Respond to Bill Mefford at [email protected] (mailto:bmefford@umc- Church to prayerfully and publicly stand which United Methodists across the theo- gbcs.org). with the members of the Body of Christ logical spectrum often agree. On this matter of vital concern, all United Methodists must unite. Their suffering who are suffering right now.” “(Persecution) should be a top priority must be ours. And our prayer for you is that Nov. 14 will not be the end of your The International Day of Prayer for the of the church,” Bouknight said. “And we concern, but the beginning. Persecuted Church is Nov. 14. don’t hear enough about it.” Let us work together to see that our brothers and sisters throughout the world The letter cites countries such as Saudi The Book of Discipline, the denomina- are protected and that the work of God’s Kingdom flourishes in every nation. Arabia, China, Vietnam, Pakistan and Iran tion’s law book, advocates for the rights of Your brothers in Christ, where Christians are being “economically all religious minorities, stating: “We urge and politically marginalized, physically policies and practices that ensure the right Dr. Bill Bouknight, Associate Director brutalized and even killed because they fol- of every religious group to exercise its faith Confessing Movement within The United Methodist Church low Jesus.” free from legal, political or economic Bill Mefford, Director, Civil and Human Rights Bill Mefford, the director of civil and restrictions.” General Board of Church and Society,The United Methodist Church human rights for the Board of Church and But for many believers, religious free- Society, and the Rev. Bill Bouknight, asso- dom is far from reality. In its annual assess- ciate director of The Confessing ment of international religious freedom, the Movement, signed the letter. U.S. State Department lists Burma, China, The Board of Church and Society, with Eritrea, Iran, Iraq, Nigeria, North Korea, Louisiana Conference Now! offices at the United Nations and on Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Sudan, Capitol Hill in Washington, is an agency of Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan and Vietnam as William W. Hutchinson Resident Bishop The United Methodist Church that pro- “countries of particular concern.” motes the denomination’s Social Principles. These are countries where Christians Don Cottrill Provost Its primary areas of ministry are advocacy, and/or other religious groups face “torture, education, leadership formation and inter- degrading treatment or punishment, pro- Betty Backstrom Editor national affairs. longed detention without charges, abduc- The Confessing Movement, based in tion or clandestine detention, or other fla- Louisiana Conference NOW! is the newspaper of the Louisiana Annual Conference Indianapolis, is an unofficial United grant denial of the right to life … .” of The United Methodist Church and is published twice a month. Methodist organization that focuses on Bouknight said he and Mefford are hop- Subscriptions are $20 for one year, $30 for two years. renewal in the church. ing that each month, United Methodists (Please make checks payable to Louisiana Annual Conference.) The Confessing Movement frequently around the world will focus on a country Send subscriptions, news and information to: has criticized the church agency as too lib- where persecution is particularly egregious. Editor eral. However, the two groups “don’t dis- Mefford said he is glad to work with 527 North Boulevard agree about the need for the church to The Confessing Movement on this issue Baton Rouge, LA 70802 focus more on the plight of persecuted and feels “quite sure that there are other E-mail: [email protected] Christians,” Bouknight said. He issues that all sides can work together on. (888) 239-5286 ext. 227 (225) 346-1646, (225) 383-2652 fax

You can find the Louisiana Annual Conference on the Internet at http://www.la-umc.org NOVEMBER 12, 2010 Louisiana Conference Now! 3

Five years after Katrina, Dillard University is home to a new $38 million Professional Schools and Sciences Building and a $15 million multi-purpose student union. What’s more, every building left standing on the campus after Katrina’s flood waters receded has been completely rebuilt inside and refurbished with state-of-the-art technology. Participants are shown, above, at the Black College Fund’s 2010 Living the Legacy Summit meeting held on Dillard’s campus in New Orleans Oct. 3-5. Dillard University works diligently to overcome the effects of Hurricane Katrina

BY DIANA CHANDLER recovery, said Dillard University President 2008 meeting that emphasized teamwork in senior director for communications and The best shot of Hurricane Katrina was Marvalene Hughes. institutional development and marketing. marketing, said an innovative advertising no match for Dillard University and the “Even in the hardest moments of Betty Backstrom, director of campaign anchored by a new university United Methodist connection. despair, if you believe in the vision pas- Communications for the Louisiana logo helped the school rebuild after Five years after Katrina, Dillard sionately enough, you will find a way to Conference, served as a panelist during the Katrina. University is home to a new $38 million make it happen,” Hughes said. “My first event. In addition to Dillard University, the Professional Schools and Sciences Building message to you is you need to be psycho- During the summit, Hughes praised The Black College Fund supports Bennett and a $15 million multi-purpose student logically prepared and the message is: No United Methodist Church for its support. College for Women, Greensboro, N.C.; union. What’s more, every building left matter what happens, you can’t afford to “The UMC has been supportive with its Bethune-Cookman University, Daytona standing on the campus after Katrina’s not be calm, you can’t afford to not be pur- financial resources and the best psychologi- Beach, Fla.; Claflin University, flood waters receded has been completely poseful, you can’t afford to not be in con- cal support I had,” said Hughes, noting that Orangeburg, S.C.; Clark Atlanta University, rebuilt inside and refurbished with state-of- trol.” churches across the nation gave funds to Atlanta; Huston-Tillotson University, the-art technology. Hughes spoke at the opening session of the rebuilding effort above their planned Austin, Texas; Meharry Medical College, Disaster planning, innovative marketing the Black College Fund’s 2010 Living the Black College Fund contributions. A Nashville, Tenn.; Paine College, Augusta, and strategic partnerships — especially Legacy Summit meeting in New Orleans Pontiac, Mich., congregation collected Ga.; Philander Smith College, Little Rock, with the United Methodist Black College on Oct. 3-5. $50,000 in a special appeal. Ark.; Rust College, Holly Springs, Miss., Fund — were keys to the remarkable The summit was designed to build on a Mona Duffel-Jones, Dillard University’s and Wiley College, Marshall, Texas. The Call to Action Steering Team recommends reform for church in the U.S.

The United Methodist Church needs to tent and uniform ways for the denomina- world.” Instead, dramatically different new behav- institute widespread reforms — from con- tion to measure attendance, growth and The team based its recommendations on iors, not incremental changes, are solidating general church agencies to hold- engagement. “We should passionately care two studies it commissioned from inde- required.” ing bishops and accountable for about results,” the group said. pendent researchers. One was an Local churches don’t have to wait for church growth — to revitalize the denomi- Reform the Council of Bishops, with the “Operational Assessment of the action from the Council of Bishops or nation, a churchwide advisory group says. active bishops assuming responsibility for Connectional Church” that found the General Conference to get started. The Call to Action Steering Team’s final promoting congregational vitality and for church was undergoing a “creeping crisis Neil Alexander, co-chair of the steering report, says the status quo of a shrinking establishing a new culture of accountability of relevance” and rated general agencies team and president of the United Methodist and aging U.S. church is “toxic” and throughout the church. below average in fulfilling the church’s Publishing House, said the proposed 10- unsustainable. The report will be presented Consolidate general church agencies mission. year emphasis to congregational vitality is and discussed Nov. 3-4 at the Council of and align their work and resources with the Another study, “The Vital in keeping with the already-established Bishops’ meeting in Panama City. priorities of the church and the decade-long Congregations Research Project,” analyzed goals of the denomination. His hope is that “We must reduce the perceived distance commitment to build vital congregations. data from 32,228 United Methodist church- the 10-year emphasis will lead the church between the general Church (including the Also, the agencies should be reconstituted es in North America and classified 4,961 in its strategic planning at all levels of general agencies), the annual conferences, with smaller, competency-based boards. congregations, or 15 percent, as “high- administration to make vitality “job one.” and local congregations,” the report said. Illinois Area Bishop Gregory V. Palmer, vital” local churches. The study found that A big part of that emphasis is holding “We must refashion and strengthen our steering team co-chair, said he hopes his four key drivers of congregational vitality church leaders accountable for church approaches in leadership development, fellow bishops will receive the report as in the United States are effective pastoral vitality. The report recommends the deployment, and supervision. … In short, “the faithful, thoughtful and diligent work leadership, multiple small groups, diverse denomination create “prompt and humane we must change our mindset so that our of other United Methodists who are yearn- worship styles and a high percentage of ways” for under-performing clergy to exit primary focus and commitment are on fos- ing with hope for the church.” spiritually engaged in leadership roles. or be declined entry into the professional tering and sustaining congregational vitali- Some of the recommendations also may What is not acceptable, Call to Action ministry in the first place. The report also ty.” require the approval of General members emphasized throughout their recommends sanctions for under-perform- Among the group’s recommendations: Conference, the church’s top legislative report, is the status quo. ing bishops. Starting in January 2011, make congre- body. “Leaders, beginning with the bishops “The need for accountability by the gational vitality the church’s “true first pri- In the wake of decades-long member- and including lay and clergy across the church’s leadership – especially the bishops ority” for at least a decade. ship declines, the Council of Bishops and Connection, must lead and immediately, – for results in the life of the church is Dramatically reform clergy leadership Connectional Table created the 16-member repeatedly, and energetically make it plain absolutely crucial for the challenges as we development, deployment, evaluation and Call to Action Steering Team, which that our current culture and practices are go forward,” Alexander said. accountability. This would include dismiss- includes clergy and laity, to reorder the life resulting in overall decline that is toxic and The Call to Action team is still unsure ing ineffective clergy and sanctioning of the church for greater effectiveness in constricts our missional effectiveness,” the which recommendations will require the under-performing bishops. the church’s mission to “make disciples of report said. passage of legislation at General Collect statistical information in consis- Jesus Christ for the transformation of the “Business as usual is unsustainable. See Call to Action, page 8 NOVEMBER 12, 2010 4 Louisiana Conference Now! News and happenings from around the La. UMC Annual Conference St. Mark UMC - Baton Rouge

St. Mark United Methodist Church in Baton Rouge celebrated the 37th anniversary of Haynesville UMC the Cherubim Choir Oct. 24. A reception was held honoring the children and former members of the choir. Marian Griffin organized the Cherubim Choir 37 years ago when Haynesville United Methodist Church in the Shreveport District hosted a Missions she joined St. Mark UMC. Rev. Derrick Hills is pastor of the church. Dinner after the worship service on Oct. 17. Team members of all ages shared their experiences on missions to the Dominican Republic, Haiti, Mexico and the Philippines. They provided many services including medical help, construction, working at an orphanage, human rights assistance and disaster relief. The dinner featured specialties from the different countries. After hearing from the team members who ministered in four different countries, the church family shared in the feast. Haitian items on the menu included bread, stew, porridge and bread pudding with mango. Filipino dishes were pork menudo and camote cue. Noel UMC - Shreveport

Retired clergy meet and retreat

The Wesley Center was the site for the Griffin served as song leader and pianist. annual Retired Clergy and Spouses Retreat Revs. Bill Youngblood and Wishy Oct. 17-19. Nolan were book reviewers, and Rev. Tom Bishop William W. Hutchinson served Bergeron served as the retreat’s “resident Forty-four adults and youth from Noel United Methodist Church in Shreveport made a as keynote speaker on Sunday night, and comedian.” trip to a local Corn Maze on Oct. 10. Dr. Frank and Mary Poole served as wor- Nancy Youngblood discussed “Five ship/song leader and pianist. Wishes—How to be Treated at End of Rev. Bertrand Griffon offered the Life.” Hartzell Mt. Zion UMC - Slidell Monday morning devotional and Marian Hartzell Mt. Zion United Methodist ship service will be Bishop William W. Church, 41040 Hwy. 190 in Slidell, invites Hutchinson, Episcopal leader for the Heflin UMC the public to be their guest at the church’s Louisiana Annual Conference. celebration of their 41st year in ministry on Rev. Ernest E. Scott, D. Min, is the pas- Nov. 24. tor for Hartzell Mt. Zion UMC. The church Keynote speaker for the 10 a.m. wor- is located in the New Orleans District. Christian educators host program workshop

In the heat of late August, about 80 simultaneous lectures from different min- Christian educators in the southern part of istry areas. the Louisiana Conference gathered to learn The workshop was coordinated by the about educational leadership in the church. members of Louisiana Christian Educators Held at Broadmoor United Methodist Fellowship from the southern districts in Church in Baton Rouge, leaders gathered the Conference. Lee McKenzie with from the Baton Rouge, Lake Charles and Broadmoor UMC emphasized that event Acadiana districts to learn more about edu- planners wanted to provide Louisiana’s cational programming in the areas of chil- church educational leaders with the same dren, youth and adult ministries. quality of seminar offerings that would be The learning (and fun!) included dis- found at a national conference without hav- plays from camping and retreat ministries, ing to travel out of state. Heflin United Methodist Church in the Shreveport District will present a walk-through drama of the life of Jesus Christ on Dec. 4 at 6 p.m. on the church grounds. “From Louisiana Volunteers in Mission, a The workshop was so successful that Bethlehem to Calvary” will bring “alive” 10 scenes from the life of Jesus. This communi- Cokesbury book store and information on another one is being planned for the Spring ty event is bringing together members from several area churches. Admission is free art ministries related to church activities. of 2011 at Trinity UMC in Ruston to serve and the public is invited. The half day event offered more than 10 the northern and central districts. NOVEMBER 12, 2010 Louisiana Conference Now! 5

St. John’s UMC hosts ‘Unity in the Community’ outreach event

Foundation and Squyres UMC host finance seminar St. John’s United Methodist Church in Baton Rouge held a special Saturday morning worship service Oct. 23, inviting residents from the nearby Gardere area as their spe- cial guests. The staff of Charlie Thomas Head Start Center joined St. John’s UMC in Dave Ramsey’s Financial Peace $333 each family receives will give them planning the service and inviting church neighbors to be a part of the University has been offered in many one-third of their emergency fund and program. Following the service, members of the UMW hosted a reception where guests United Methodist Churches in the last few energize them to save the remainder. enjoyed food and fellowship with church members. years, but one young pastor in the rural Of the 18 families that originally signed community of Ragley, Louisiana, has up at Squyres UMC, 14 completed the Deacons hold retreat at Wesley Center added an innovative twist. requirements and will receive the reward. FPU is a 13-week, life-changing debt “I can tell you that FPU has made a BY REV. SARAH WILLIAMS SHOUP Hutchinson. The day concluded with a reduction program with a long history of huge difference in my family’s life. For the Service of Holy Communion led by the helping families begin managing money first time since we were married, we have The Order of Deacons held its annual Bishop. God’s way. Rev. Juan Huertas of Squyres savings, a plan to pay down our debt (it Retreat and Day Apart with the Bishop Many times, the most interesting UMC planned to offer FPU to the Ragley will take us around 4 years), and a plan for Oct. 3-4 The Wesley Center in Woodworth, moments are the ones that are not planned, community, but wanted to sweeten the retirement that does not depend on my pen- La. and one of those moments happened on deal. sion. All of this while continuing our Participants enjoyed worship, prayer Sunday evening. When members of the By partnering with the United tithing to the congregation I serve,” stated and fellowship on Sunday evening, with Order of Deacons began to arrive at The Methodist Foundation of Louisiana, Rev. Rev. Huertas. Revs. Janet Davis and Mimi McDowell Wesley Center, we noticed a large wooden Huertas was able to offer a reward to those Rev. Huertas also believes that faith and facilitating the discussion. The group cross in front of the doors to the Chapel; who participated in FPU and fulfilled cer- money are beginning to come together for focused on the question, “What are you the cross made it impossible to get inside! tain course requirements. In this creative his congregation. “Through this ministry, a doing here?,” using the story of Elijah from Everyone began wondering why it was approach, Rev. Huertas awarded each of seed has been planted for stewardship and 1 Kings 19. there—why would anyone block the doors these families a check for $333 upon com- faith and money, which trickles down to Monday morning began with worship to the church? After some discussion, we pletion. everything we do,” he commented. led by Rev. Rita Chiasson. Everyone was decided that this strange occurrence was a Why $333? The goal of FPU is to teach The course at Squyres ended earlier this invited to place a piece of a puzzle on the good symbol for the ministry of the participants the skills to eliminate debt, summer. Rev. Huertas distributed altar, representing each individual’s impor- Deacon—the work of the church not only save for the future, and give like never Foundation checks to the participants that tance to the whole ministry of Christians. takes place inside the walls of its buildings, before. To obtain that goal the course out- successfully completed the program during The day continued with teaching sessions but out in the world, where the neediest lines seven baby steps, the first of which is a celebration at the church. on weddings and funerals led by Bishop and most marginalized people reside. to set aside a $1000 emergency fund. The

First United Methodist Church in Pineville is currently gearing up for 300 guests for Thanksgiving lunch. This annual event, called “Share the Blessing,” started over 12 years ago when church members acted on their dream to provide a holiday meal for the needy in the area. Above pictures show scenes from last year’s event.

Sharing, from page 1 ing of the luncheon, armed with aprons and as a volunteer. “The youth roll cutlery in include as many member of the congrega- smiles. “They work until the last guest is napkins and tie it with ribbons. Others take tion as possible as we serve others on this of the recipes is taped to the bottom of a seen out of the Family Life Center door. care of stapling the grocery lists to paper special day in May. If a local church does disposable tinfoil pan, and members are Volunteers get to the church early to get the bags. Some who can’t stand for long peri- not have a ministry that serves the poor, asked to take home pans and bring them meat on the pit, get the dessert ready to be ods of time help check in our guests. this is their chance to begin planning and back with the prepared dressing or dessert. served, prepare the vegetables and get vehi- Children circulate and pass rolls around to implementing something that is relevant “This way, we don’t have lots of different cles on the road to pick up guests who do the tables. It is truly a congregational and needed by the underserved of their recipes of things coming in and we don’t not have transportation. Guests are escorted effort,” said McKay. community,” said Bishop William W. have to worry about getting pans back to to decorated tables, the food is blessed, and The Conference Task Force on Poverty Hutchinson. their owners,” said McKay. then youth group and other congregation is spearheading “A Day of Caring: Feed Readers can find more about the “Day Monetary donations are used to provide members serve lunch,” McKay added. My Sheep” on May 14, 2011. On that day, of Caring” on the conference website at turkey, ham, sweet potatoes, green beans, “Share the Blessing” has become one of congregations are asked to implement a www.la-umc.org corn, rolls and paper products for serving First UMC’s biggest outreach efforts over service project focusing on the needs of the First UMC in Pineville provides a clear the meal. the years. Members even plan their holi- poor in their neighborhood or community. model for one of the many ways that local Members “swarm” the church the morn- days around this event. “We encourage churches to build on churches can be in ministry with the poor. There is something for everyone to do existing ministries they may have to NOVEMBER 12, 2010 6 Louisiana Conference Now!

The congregations of Philips Memorial and Hartzell United Methodist Churches in New Orleans wear “comfortable shoes” every fifth Sunday as a part of the church calendar. “Walking Sermon” Sundays bring church members out in the neighborhoods surrounding the two churches as an outreach that has dynamically impacted both congregations. Philips Memorial and Hartzell UMCs hold ‘Walking Sermon Sundays’

In mid-October of 2009, Rev. Dr. Ninth Ward, encountered the same problem said they were already a member of anoth- Sunday’s in January and August because of Elenora Cushenberry asked the congrega- as they visited a neighborhood still in the er church, we just affirmed that fact. We the possibility of extreme weather,” she tions of Philips Memorial and Hartzell process of recovering from Hurricane encouraged them to return to their church- said. United Methodist Churches in New Katrina. es, or to enjoy visiting with us in the case Philips Memorial and Hartzell UMCs Orleans to “wear comfortable shoes” for But during “Walking Sermon Sunday,” where someone’s church had been have seen positive results from the “walk- the second Sunday service in November. the two churches tried a new approach . . . destroyed during Hurricane Katrina.” ing ministry,” receiving thanks for the visits The members of both churches were to walk on Sunday morning during the While members were out visiting, those and requests for prayers. As a result of their about to be a part of “Walking Sermon worship service! So on Nov. 8, 2009, that could not participate stayed in the visit, a family of four has joined Philips Sunday.” church members “became the sermon.” sanctuary to sing and pray for those who Memorial. Members of the Team at Those members and guests who were phys- were walking. “This way, there is 100% But, perhaps more important, the Philips Memorial UMC came up with the ically able walked the neighborhoods of participation! No words can describe how churches were re-energized and invigorat- idea of walking through historic Gert Town their respective churches, introducing we felt that first day, walking back into the ed. “That’s evangelism…that’s witness- on Sunday mornings after trying different themselves to neighbors. “If someone church while members were praying or ing…trying to get people in the community times and different days to reach out to the inquired about the church, we talked fur- singing!,” added Rev. Cushenberry. to Christ! In essence, it’s taking the neighborhood surrounding the church. In ther and extended an invitation. On our Members were thrilled by the response. Church to the people!,” said Gail Brooks, a past attempts to canvass the area, volun- subsequent journeys, we handed out devo- “Walking Sermon Sundays” are now held member at Philips Memorial UMC. teers only encountered a small number of tional booklets and flyers which included every fifth Sunday as a regular part of the neighbors that were actually at home. our contact information,” said Rev. church calendar. “We are taking another Hartzell UMC, located in the Lower Cushenberry. “If we visited someone that look at how to approach the special Jan. 7 deadline for PWJ grants United Methodist Student Day is Nov. 28

Jan. 7 is the deadline to apply for a ing and responding to violence and mili- The Louisiana Annual Conference scholarships. Peace with Justice grant from the United tarism, and in moving and leading nations has more than 36 students that currently Call (888) 346-3862 today to order Methodist General Board of Church & and peoples to reconciliation, transforma- receive approximately $67,000 in fund- envelopes and other resources so your Society (GBCS). tion, and redemption; ing through scholarships and loans pro- congregation can participate in this Funding for this program is generated Involve and develop leaders among vided through the General Board of church-wide offering. They will be sent through the Peace with Justice Special United Methodists and enjoin the general Higher Education and Ministry. at no cost to your church! You can also Sunday public in efforts to end conflicts, human The United Methodist Student Day place an order for the 2011 Special (http://www.umcgiving.org/site/c.qwL6Kk rights violations and violent aggression offering slated for Nov. 28 is earmarked Sunday materials! Find more at umcgiv- NWLrH/b.3833883/k.F990/Special_Sunda around the world; to provide funds for these vital loans and ing.org/specialsundays. ys__Peace_with_Justice_Sunday__Overvie Promote just national and international w.htm) offering of The United Methodist policies and actions (governmental and Church. One of six Special Sundays in the non-governmental) seeking to address denomination, Peace with Justice “witness- poverty and restore communities; or In Memoriam es to God’s demands for a faithful, just, Support policies that promote systemat- disarmed and secure world.” Peace with ic economic justice and the self-develop- Justice Sunday is June 19 in 2011. ment of peoples, in particular to respond to Rev. Joe Brown, Jr. Peace with Justice grants are awarded the disproportionate effect of injustices on 10/28/10 annually. In 2010, $50,000 was granted to racial, indigenous and ethnic persons. Muriel J. Davis (Mrs. Abraham Davis) 15 Peace with Justice ministries. Applications will be evaluated by 10/14/10 Grant applicants must be either a United GBCS’s Board of Directors. Methodist or other affiliated organization, Applicants may seek assistance in fill- Rev. Frances L. Lampkin or an ecumenical group working with and ing out the form, which is available on the 10/26/10 through at least one United Methodist GBCS Web site at Peace with Justice Grant Rev. William G. Wilson agency or organization. Application. For assistance, contact 10/25/10 Applicants must work toward achieving Marvlyn Scott (mailto:mscott@umc- at least one of the following objectives: gbcs.org), (202) 488-5643. Rev. Thomas A. Wilson Assist United Methodists in understand- 10/28/10 NOVEMBER 12, 2010 Louisiana Conference Now! 7

Children’s Home dedicates new home, vocational training and career center

Dr. Steven Franks and Dr. Terrel DeVille stand with Bishop William W. Hutchinson, center, during the dedication service for the new Methodist Children’s Home of Southwest Louisiana, located near Sulpher, La. Pictured above right is the new John H. Allen Vocational Training and Career Center located at the Ruston home.

Over 250 supporters attended the Oct. January, 2011. The John H. Allen Vocational Training turn 18, they can go out into the world and 17 dedication service for the new Dr. Steven Franks, program director for and Career Center, located at the Louisiana be able to take care of themselves. Allen Methodist Children’s Home of Southwest the Southwest La. home led a responsive United Methodist Children’s Home in said “The ability to provide our youth with Louisiana, located near Sulpher, La. reading with attendees, and then the pres- Ruston, was dedicated Oct. 5. John Allen, the opportunity to train and to learn a skill Before and after the service, visitors entation of the buildings for dedication to vice president of Operations for Louisiana that will help them to obtain employment toured the home and enjoyed refreshments the Bishop commenced. The buildings United Methodist Children and Family once they leave our home is so important.” provided by area United Methodist church- were presented by Billy James, treasurer of Services, and Terrel J. DeVille, president The new training programs teach the youth es. the Board of Directors for LUMCFS. and CEO, were on hand to witness the cel- important life skills such as how to act with The program began with remarks from In his remarks, Bishop William ebration. others in the work force, the responsibility Louisiana United Methodist Children and Hutchinson emphasized that the home will Rev. Mickey Stringfield, Monroe that comes with having a job, and of course Family Services President and CEO, Terrel “provide God’s love to children and fami- District Superintendent Rev. Bob Burgess, the actual skills unique to the program they J. DeVille. He shared that the project was lies in great need.” A benediction was Rev. Jerry Hilbun, and Bishop William W. are enrolled in. The programs offered at the made possible by the offer of a very gener- offered by Rev. Douglas L. Cain. Hutchinson all participated in the service. training center are barbering, carpentry and ous gift from Bill Henning and his three New members for the Board of Rev. Stringfield serves as chaplain for the welding. The youth are also enrolled in the sons, Dub, John, and Tom. The Henning Directors of the home include William school and Rev. Hilbun is pastor of Trinity GED program facilitated by Howard gift enabled the home to meet its goals “Dub” Henning, Jr., Rev. Mike McLaurin, United Methodist Church in Ruston. School, which serves the residents of the sooner than once thought possible. Cindy Qualls, Sulphur; Lake Charles In an interview with KTVE in Monroe, home. The 32-bed facility will be staffed and District Superintendent Rev. Steve Allen explained that the center will ensure ready to begin serving children by late Spurlock, and Mark McMurry. that once the youth helped by the home Rethink Worship workshop moved to First UMC in Pineville

Rethink Worship, a December workshop The day-long event will include dynam- Rethink Worship workshop in December? gregation and community. It may include focusing on enhancing worship in ic corporate worship as well as break-out Isn’t it just about establishing a contempo- anthems and hymns. It may include gospel Louisiana’s local churches, will now be sessions on specific elements of rary worship service in our church?” music. It might incorporate praise and wor- held at First United Methodist Church in worship. The break-out times will include Actually, the purpose of the event is to ship.” Pineville. sessions on preaching, use of media, music broaden every local church’s resources The event planners believe that partici- The venue is changing to First UMC and liturgical arts and drama. The leaders around worship. Many churches are doing pants will take home a “greater apprecia- from the previous location which was the for these sessions are a mixture of our own a really great job when it comes to wor- tion for diverse worship experiences” and Alexandria Riverfront Center. Louisiana leadership and persons from the ship, but like any organization, we grow some “21st century” resources intended to This exciting resource opportunity fea- broader church leadership. and become stronger when we “stretch.” enhance the worship environment in our turing nationally renowned speakers will be Rethink Worship will provide tools for Event organizers for Rethink Worship local churches. held Saturday, Dec. 4, 2010. Participants those who offer traditional worship as well have designed the day-long workshop to Featured speakers include Jim Walker, gather at 9 a.m., participate in worship and as for those who provide other styles of provide participants with the necessary co-pastor of Hot Metal Bridge Faith workshops, and finish the day at 3:30 p.m. worship. It is a day to both be a part of training and introductory resources to begin Community in Pittsburgh (Preaching); Len Congregations are encouraged to send a worship and to learn about worship. a new era in their church’s worship. Wilson and Jason Moore of Midnight Oil team to the event so that they can attend all The audience for Rethink Worship is “But, is this event ABOUT contempo- Productions (Use of Media in Worship); four workshops, and then come home and local church , lay leadership, and rary worship? Mark Sorenson and Derek Joyce of First share what they’ve learned. worship and music leaders and commit- The answer is “yes” and “no.” “We United Methodist Church in Shreveport “Gather a task group at the church and tees/teams. All persons are welcome. It is know many churches will never do wor- (Music); and Rev. Beverly Connelly of St. envision who you are currently not reach- expected that local churches will bring ship differently from what they are current- Paul United Methodist Church in ing and how to best reach them through teams of persons to the event in order to ly doing; and I personally do not like the Shreveport (Liturgical Arts and Drama). worship,” said Rev. Connelly. have representation in all of the break-out dividing terms of ‘contemporary’ and ‘tra- To register, go to “Rethink Worship is an opportunity for sessions and to form a task force to consid- ditional’ when describing worship,” said www.rethinkworship.org. Lunch is includ- every church to experience the growing er ways to integrate the information into Rev. Joe Connelly, one of the event organ- ed in the registration fee of $20 per per- edge of worship. It is possible for everyone the life of the congregation. izers. “Perhaps a better term to use is son. to gain insights into worship, no matter the Some may ask, “Why does our church “responsive” worship. We must shape our style,” said Rev. Don Cottrill, provost. need to attend the conference-sponsored services to respond to the needs of our con- NOVEMBER 12, 2010 8 Louisiana Conference Now!

HOPE Ministries, from page 1 Families in poverty often learn patterns of behavior which help them get by on a day-to-day basis, but set them up for long- term failure, Simmons added. “They often use payday loan companies for immediate cash loans with interest rates and fees well beyond the standard rates. A lack of trans- portation continues to deter those who are capable of working from maintaining sta- ble employment. Accepting advice from friends and family members who may be struggling with the same issues also causes setbacks and failures.” Without ongoing checks and balances, said Simmons, these families find them- selves in a constant spiral downward, keeping them from being able to get and stay ahead. Those mired in generational poverty very often receive criticism rather than support, even from concerned Christians. “Unfortunately, those who were born into several generations of poverty have limited choices, too. Many have an educational level that doesn’t go beyond the sixth Bishop William Hutchinson meets with Senator Mary Landrieu grade,” said Simmons. Simmons recommends that those want- Bishop William W. Hutchinson recently met with Sen. Mary Landrieu in her offices located in New Orleans. Bishop Hutchinson spoke ing to learn more about the facts surround- with the senator about the efforts of the Louisiana Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church and UMCOR in helping to ing poverty should consider registering for rebuild New Orleans and other storm affected areas in the state. The conference, with the help of UMCOR, started its Disaster a course offered by HOPE Ministries. Recovery Ministry shortly after a series of major hurricanes, including Katrina and Rita which hit the Gulf Coast in 2005. Understanding the Dynamics of Poverty training helps provide tools that anyone who works with those in poverty needs in order to best serve this struggling commu- nity. This six-hour training course, next offered on Dec. 9, is designed to help par- ticipants grasp many of the obstacles and Follow Your Heart difficulties families in poverty face every day. The interactive workshop is com- prised of data from leading poverty experts including Dr. Ruby Payne of Aha! Process; AND Dr. Nicholas Zill of Child Trends; and Dr. Ellen Galinsky, Mind in the Making. Understanding the Dynamics of Be Tax-Smart! Poverty, led by Richard Stonich, will be held Dec. 9 from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. at the Louisiana Resource Center for Educators in Baton Rouge. The cost of the training is $125 and interested persons can register Year-end giving that online at www.hopebr.org For more infor- mation contact Simmons at (225) 355- produces extra income! 0702.

Call to Action, from page 3 Single Life* Wanting to make a gift to your church but still feeling a little uneasy Conference to implement, Alexander said. Gift Annuity about the fi nancial market? A charitable gift annuity, which can The team recommends that the Council Rates of Bishops establish an “Interim actually increase your income, may be just the solution for you. Operations Team” to determine what legis- lation is required. The team would also Age Rate work with the Council of Bishops, 65 5.5% Charitable Gift Annuities: Connectional Table and the general agen- • Increase your income now, benefi t your church later cies to plan the denominational funding 70 5.8% and budget that will be considered at the 75 6.4% • Avoid capital gains tax 2012 General Conference. • Receive a charitable income tax deduction Ultimately, the message and ministry of 80 7.2% The United Methodist Church is one worth saving, Alexander said. 85 8.1% Contact us for more information or go to “ and our Wesleyan view of 90+ 9.5% the way God’s grace goes before us and our website for a free downloadable brochure. beckons us to God is of such critical importance that it must not be ignored,” he said. “The integration of personal and social holiness is a way of being in the world that can redeem a broken and hurt- (225) 346-1535 (800) 256-9317 ing world. That is no less true today than when the circuit riders set out to spread www.umfgiving.org scriptural holiness across the land.”