$2 February 2011

Season of Epiphany Tempered success Apportionments come in at 83 percent, same as 2009 By Jessica Connor cent of apportionments have been paid. same percentage paid in 2009. Conference Treasurer Tony But many organizations were nerv - United Methodist agencies and Prestipino had been projecting the con - ous in spite of Prestipino’s estimation organizations are wiping their brows ference would come in at 83 percent – in mid-December, payments had only this week after news that about 83 per - (about $14.6 million), which is the See “Apportionments,” Page 24

It’s Salkehatchie time again! Page 12 Spirit Singers Traveling choir of teens sing for the Lord

By Jessica Connor

A hush descends upon the Road to the room as they begin, voices White House pitched in perfect harmony. Page 2 Sopranos, altos, tenors and basses rush together like pow - erful water, ebbing and flow - ing, lifting and turning, all to the glory of the Father. Their young faces reflect the words they sing – some tucked in reverence, some upturned, with shimmers of light from the stained glass church win - dows dancing across their It’s not just rote for the 28-member youth choir. The Spirit Singers have a reputation for really feeling the words they sing, then communicating that rapture to the audience. Here, smooth skin. Dawsey UMC from left, Sarah Edwards, Sara Walden Hanna, Briana Marchant and Murphy Belton lift up And as they sing, the Holy rises above tragedy their voices. (Photo by Jessica Connor) See “Spirit Singers,” Page 7 Page 9

Scouting Ministries Sunday, Feb. 13 Shelter from the storm Greenwood church provides winter refuge for homeless, hopes to help other churches do same By Jessica Connor desperate – the police don’t call it vagrancy anymore; they call it break - GREENWOOD – Before, when it ing and entering. was cold and he didn’t have anyplace His life was bleak, hopeless. to sleep, Scottie McKee would find But since The Men’s Shelter at St. shelter in a portable toilet or the Mark United Methodist Church library’s gazebo, maybe gulp a bottle opened in November, McKee is feel - of liquor just to feel the warmth rush ing something new: hope. The men who seek refuge at the shelter are considered to be “guests,” not clients. “We put through him. For the first time, he thinks he just a mint à la Marriott on top of their pillow every He’d shack up with friends or in an might rise out of the dark pit he’s night,” said volunteer Jim Conley. Here, BJ abandoned house when he was really See “Homeless,” Page 8 Smith sets a mint on one of the beds.

4 Opinion 16-17 District News 18 Classifieds 22 Obituaries Issue Index: 4-6 Commentary 18 Calendar 19 Resource Center 23 IBS Lessons Page 2, February 2011 The South Carolina United Methodist Advocate ‘Blessed and amazed’ UMC pastor attends White House holiday party By Jessica Connor “ decorations, not to mention the pristinely maintained building itself. SUMTER – The Rev. Telley “There were strawberries the size Lynnette Gadson is no stranger to of apples!” Gadson said. “The hospi - pomp and circumstance, having tality was overwhelming. … I truly grown up in politics and community felt like it was well, well, well service. But when she got the rare done.” opportunity to experience a holiday Gadson said the Obamas are party at the White House this deeply spiritual Christians, and she Christmas, she had one word for it: is grateful to have had the experi - Amazing. ence. “The experience was more than I “I count myself really blessed and could imagine,” said Gadson, senior amazed at the doors God keeps pastor of St. Mark United Methodist opening on my behalf,” Gadson said. Church, Sumter. “You knew you It’s an experience she appreciates were in the presence of royalty, but it on another level, as well – for her was such a feeling of being at mother Linda Gadson, a tireless mis - home.” sion worker for the rural poor, whose The experience The daughter of the first black was more than I familiar saying “from the outhouse mayor of Hollywood, in the could imagine,” to the White House” echoed in her Lowcountry, and the first black said the Rev. ears while she was in Washington. female to graduate from the College Telley Lynnette “It was almost like I was fulfilling of Charleston, now longtime director Gadson, senior her prophecy, or she was vicariously pastor of St. of Rural Mission, Gadson has Mark United having that experience,” Gadson accomplished much since her ordi - Methodist said. nation. Not yet 40 years old, she is Church, Sumter, In her 12th year at St. Mark, described as a trailblazer in the con - about her recent Gadson saw the church from a two- ference with a passion for Christ. experience at the point charge to a station church with White House. The Rev. Ken Nelson, S.C. a brand-new building. Conference congregational special - “It’s been a journey, but God is ist, African-American ministries, faithful, and we are very, very credits Gadson’s leadership in turn - blessed,” she said. ing around a declining local church Gadson will be profiled in an that is now empowered by a vibrant upcoming book on black preaching membership with new enthusiasm in the UMC, being written now by and vision for making disciples. Dr. Gennifer Brooks, homiletic pro - “I am certain that this invitation fessor at Garrett Evangelical has come as a result of those in Theological Seminary in Illinois. the corridors of power learning And she continues her work to cre - of the transforming power and wit - ate disciples and spread the word of ness of her ministry among the peo - Gadson said the Obamas are deeply Gadson gives First Lady Michelle God – from the outhouse to the ple of God,” Nelson said. spiritual Christians, and she is grateful Obama a “prayer hug” during a past to have had the experience. meeting with black women leaders. White House. Gadson’s invitation to the White House arose after several years in in prayer throughout the race. spiritual connection with President A year later, in February 2008, Barack Obama and his wife, Michelle Obama came to Columbia Michelle. for a meeting with black women The Advocate In February 2007, Gadson was leaders, and Gadson was again asked asked to share a “spiritual charge” at to speak as a prelude to the future a prayer breakfast in honor of then- First Lady’s message. presidential candidate Obama, just Gadson did part two of her ONLINE two weeks after he announced his “Audacity of Faith” reflection, talk - run. ing about Michelle Obama being in In her several-minute reflection, the biblical role of Deborah, who titled “The Audacity of Faith” (a guided Barak in the Book of Judges. spin-off of Obama’s book, “The Gadson was invited but unable to Visit us Audacity of Hope”), Gadson con - attend the National Prayer Service in nected the biblical Barak from the conjunction with Obama’s inaugura - at scadvocate-online.org Book of Judges with Barack Obama tion. And she always hoped she the presidential hopeful, underscor - would one day get the opportunity to ing the importance of overturning visit the White House. injustice and dealing with disparity. On Dec. 14, she finally got her Two days later, he called to thank chance. She flew to Washington, Like us her, asking if she would serve on his D.C., to attend one of the holiday at facebook.com/advocatesc national prayer team. parties the Obamas hosted at the “He actually highlighted a couple White House. things from what I’d said,” Gadson There, she experienced the sort of said. spectacular grandeur witnessed by Follow us Gadson then began a weekly con - most people only in the movies – @advocatesc ference call with other pastors across ballrooms, gardens, beautiful music, the nation who would lift up Obama massive Christmas trees, gorgeous The South Carolina United Methodist Advocate February 2011, Page 3 MAN

HartTsville chur ch w ork ing to la uncMh men’s discipAleship moNvement in S.C. By Jessica Connor course, which met third of the coun - accessible to people so they can every Tuesday try, Mathews become followers of Christ,” he said. HARTSVILLE – The new American from 6:30-7:30 noticed people “Our church talks a lot about making dream: work as hard as you can to a.m. for half a This is li“ke guys going lived in big com - disciples, but we get kind of thin on save as much as you can, so you can year. The 10 men plexes by choice, the operations side. Our Methodist buy as big a house as you can, just so held each other to the gym together and not necessity – the mandate is to make disciples for the you can build a fence around it and accountable for building group muscle. culture was far betterment of the world, and unless live the rest of your life in splendid weekly Scripture more community- you’re in small groups, you’re not isolation. memory and oriented than what making disciples.” But according to the Rev. Phil preparation, plus The Rev. Phil Thrailkill he had experi - Thrailkill, when it comes to disciple - set the standard enced in America. Man-focused ship, that’s not the way it’s supposed that this was not “The more I While he knows women are just as to work. just a learning thought about it, integral to disciple-making, Thrailkill Discipleship is about fellowship, course but a train - the more I real - said his church is focusing on male intimacy, breaking down the walls of ing course, and ized that man is groups because he feels men don’t isolation – all the things pastor and ” that they were not meant to live have as many opportunities to connect bestselling Christian author Dr. Greg expected to lead a If you go in this splendid intimately around Christ. He said Ogden advocates in his book, new group when isolation,” women usually find all sorts of ways “Transforming Discipleship: Making this one ended. Men’s Discipleship Seminar Mathews said. to connect, but many men are isolated Disciples a Few at a Time.” “Discipleship Essentials,” led by “At first they Dr. Greg Ogden Ogden’s book from their brothers. Inspired by Ogden’s book and their were hesitant, but March 19, 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. reinforced that “This is like guys going to the gym own experiences, Thrailkill’s church, as the trust built, Free; all welcome notion and com - together and building group muscle,” St. Luke United Methodist Church, so did the willing - At St. Luke UMC, Hartsville pletely changed Thrailkill said about the training. Hartsville, is hosting a free seminar ness to open their Information: 843-861-2919 his thought St. Luke cares so passionately about designed to help other men across the lives,” Thrailkill process about the this new movement that they will do state embrace true discipleship and said. “At the end of the 26 weeks, the way Christians disciple nonbelievers – all they can to help other men get start adding to the Kingdom. Holy Spirit had built us into a band of it’s not a one-hour-a-week Sunday started. For them, it’s not just a train - Ogden will come to St. Luke UMC brothers.” school class, but rather a one-on-one, ing, but a commitment to helping on Saturday, March 19, from 8:30 Every man involved in the first personal connection. other groups. a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Titled “Discipleship group (dubbed “Generation One,” or “Greg Ogden points out that disci - “We will coach them,” Thrailkill Essentials,” the ecumenical seminar “the core”) has now paired up and is pleship is kind of a dirty business – said. “It’s not just a workshop and we will teach men how to build spiritual leading a new group in twos. you’ve got to get in there and get your leave you to your own.” muscle into their hearts and lives. Generation Two, which started in hands dirty because you love them To learn more about the free Ogden There is no cost, and all churches September 2010, comprised five and want to disciple them,” Mathews training March 19, or to talk with across South Carolina are encouraged groups that met in various places: a said. Thrailkill more about St. Luke’s own to send groups of men who are ready YMCA, a restaurant, at St. Luke, etc. Thrailkill agrees. training experiences, call 843-861- to become better disciples. Generation Three was just starting as “It boils down to making Scripture 2919. All are welcome to attend. “Discipleship is a lifelong thing – of the Advocate’s press time, and we join hand to hand, lock arms with Generation Four will begin in the fall. one another through this journey, and “We really want it to go viral,” we’re supposed to be picking up oth - Thrailkill said. ers along the way,” said Adam That is why St. Luke is offering the 1836. Publication began July 24, 1837. Publisher Mathews, a stockbroker who attends free seminar March 19 – they want The S.C. United Methodist Advocate Trustees Marilyn Murphy, chairperson; The paper is published monthly by St. Luke UMC. “It’s a man-to-man, scores of men of all denominations Angela Nelson, vice chairperson; the S.C. United Methodist Advocate Trustees the Rev. Steven King, secretary; at 4908 Colonial Drive, Suite 207, person-to-person sort of deal.” and all races to “catch the bug” and Carmen Faulkner, treasurer; Columbia, SC 29203. Mathews and his pastor, Thrailkill, Richard Baines; Robert Bentley; www.scadvocate-online.org focus on better, people-driven disci - the Rev. Robin Dease; the Rev. Jerry Gadsden; already know firsthand that it works. ple-making. the Rev. Keith Hunter; Rhonda Jones; The individual subscription rate is $15 annually. Gladys Lemon; the Rev. Dean Lollis; Renewals are $13. To subscribe or for The two were inspired about a new “We’ve funded this ourselves, and the Rev. Evelyn Middleton; information about discounted church plan rates, the Rev. Rodney Powell; and Diane Wilson please call 803-786-9486 or 888-678-6272, way of disciple-making after they read we want to give it away as a gift,” or e-mail [email protected]. Ogden’s book. And after a life-chang - Thrailkill said. Editors emeritus J. Claude Evans, M. Eugene Mullikin, We cannot be responsible for unsolicited ing mission trip to Istanbul in 2009, “It’s our way of trying to say to Maryneal Jones, Willie S. Teague, Allison Askins, manuscripts. Please d irect all inquiries regarding Karl F. Davie Burgdorf, Emily L. Cooper commentary submissions to: they decided to launch at St. Luke an churches, ‘There is a way to build dis - the editor, 4908 Colonial Drive, Suite 207, Columbia, SC 29203-6070. intensive, 26-week “Discipleship Editor: Jessica Connor ciples.’” [email protected] 803-786-9486/FAX 803-735-8168 Periodicals postage paid at Columbia, S.C. Essentials” course based on Ogden’s Advertising/Circulation/Assistant Editor: Allison K. Trussell, [email protected] Postmaster: Send address changes to: book. ‘A dirty business’ The South Carolina United Methodist Advocate , 4908 Colonial Drive, Suite 207, Columbia, SC 29203 On their 11-day mission trip to The South Carolina United Methodist Advocate The cost was high, Thrailkill said – (ISSN 1078-8166) continues the Southern Christian they handpicked 10 men for that first Turkey, which involved traveling a Advocate, authorized by the General Conference of February 2011 • Volume 175 • No. 2 Page 4, February 2011 The South Carolina United Methodist Advocate

VIEWPOINT A Modest Proposal

Jessica Connor, Editor The Rev. Michael Henderson

“Sit down, boy. I’ve got something bipartisan commissions to find ways to ask you,” Mary Ella said as I to reduce the debt. All of their sug - Enough already walked into the coffee shop. gestions include increasing taxes and We don’t know what spurred Jared Loughner to go on an alleged shoot - “Mary Ella! Happy New Year,” I reducing spending. Almost all of ing spree Jan. 8, leaving six innocent people dead, including a 9-year-old said as I slipped into the booth. them say that a couple of our favorite girl. We don’t know whether it was, as some have suggested, a festering “What’s on your mind?” deductions have to go,” she said. response to the intense political vitriol that has slowly been building to a “Debt,” she said. “And they are….” crescendo in our nation, or some other reason entirely. “We’re debt free!!!” I said, trying “The home mortgage deduction, But we believe the political venom being spewed needs to end now. to sound like the folks on Dave and the charitable giving deduction.” We are humans first, before we are Democrats or Republicans, Ramsey’s radio show, but not quite “Oh,” I said. Americans or foreigners, men or women. We are brothers and sisters no yelling. No need to get kicked out of “So my question is this. This seems matter our race, color, creed or political affiliation. At the end of the day, it the shop for being too loud. to me to be a justice issue. These two doesn’t really matter whether we self-identify “liberal” or “conservative,” “That’s a good thing,” she said, deductions are aimed at the middle whether we listen to Rush Limbaugh or Arianna Huffington or Bart sounding like Martha Stewart. “But I and upper economic families. They Simpson. It matters how we treat our neighbor, how we respond to “the was thinking about our national are the ones who buy houses and who least of these.” debt.” give to help others, and who give As the Advocate goes to press on this edition, more than 50 prominent The waitress came over and asked most of the support to the church. national religious leaders of varying faiths and denominations (including if we’d like coffee. Poor people usually don’t own United Methodists) had just released an open letter to Congress calling for “Do you have pepper - homes. They rent, too a time of national soul-searching, reflection and public dialogue about mint mocha? It’s getting often from slumlords. “violent and vitriolic political rhetoric.” near Valentine’s Day and And they usually don’t “We are deeply troubled that rancor, threats and incivility have become we’d like something have the money to sup - commonplace in our public debates,” letter signers tell members of sweet,” Mary Ella said. port the church. I’ve Congress. “…We urge you to continue to serve as stewards of our democ - “It’s the only kind we heard leaders from racy by engaging ideological adversaries not as enemies, but as fellow serve,” the waitress churches speak out Americans.” answered. against the tax deduc - (Read the full text online at faithinpubliclife.org/content/feature/ “Good. Bring us two tions given to the rich, TucsonResponse.pdf.) cups. Now where was and how that hurts the The Advocate strongly supports this letter. I?” economy, and more We agree with the signers — we are all children of God. We need to “National debt,” I than that, hurts the poor. accept differing political opinions and understand that our nation is a beau - answered. But what about these two? Will the tiful mixture of many parts, all of which are necessary and relevant in their “Right. Do you know when the last church stand up and say ‘we’re will - own way. time the U.S. was debt free?” she ing to make a sacrifice in the interest We can learn from our differences. And usually, we can come to higher asked. of what’s best for all, even though it ground when we do so. “Uh, during the Eisenhower may hurt us?’” Jesus said, “You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and administration?” I gandered. “Good question,” I said, avoiding hate your enemy.’ But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who “Nope, a little before that. It was in answering it. persecute you, that you may be children of your Father in heaven. He caus - 1836, while Andrew Jackson, who we “That’s not an answer, boy,” she es his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous claim was born in South Carolina…” said. “And another question.” I and the unrighteous. (Matthew 5: 43-45) “Some North Carolinians claim it braced myself. “Would people still Stop the political hatred. We’re all in this together. was on their side of the line,” I inter - give to the ministries of the church if rupted. they did not get to deduct them from “Well, he was the last, and only their taxes?” What is your church doing…? president I know of, to have presided That one I could answer. March is Women’s History Month, as well as over a debt-free USA,” Mary Ella “I believe the answer is yes,” I World Day of Prayer on March 4. Is your church said. said. doing something to commemorate either (or both) of these “Then he was from South “Why?” events? Let us know! E-mail [email protected]. Carolina,” I said, proudly. “Because I don’t think most people “Of course, the next year began a give in order to get a tax break. I five-year national depression,” she think that’s just a bonus. I believe said. most people give because they want Letters Policy “Then he was from North to help others. And I believe that most We welcome letters to the editor. In focus groups conducted on behalf of the Carolina,” I said. people in the church give because Board of Trustees, Advocate readers said they wanted shorter, to-the-point let - “And he did bring about the Indian they have somehow felt God’s love in ters and commentary. Removal Act, causing the Trail of a way that makes them want to share Succinct writing often produces clarity and better writing. Thus letters to the Tears,” she said. with others. And it gets to be addic - editor are to be no more than 300 words . Commentary will run from 600 to “Then he was from Tennessee,” I tive, because the more people give, 950 words, as judged by the editor according to the interest and points made. said, thinking about his Tennessee the more spiritual blessings they feel. All letters and commentary are subject to editing as needed to meet stan - home, the Hermitage. At least, that’s been true of most of dards of grammar, space and interest. Inappropriate language or personal “But what I want to ask you about the givers in the churches I’ve attacks will be struck. Letters should be sent to: is debt, not your native history,” Mary served.” The Advocate Ella said, referring to my Cherokee “So will the United Methodist 4908 Colonial Drive, Suite 207 ancestry. Church support reducing the debt by Columbia, SC 29203-6070 “Go ahead,” I said. taking away those deductions?” she FAX (803) 735-8168 | [email protected] “The national debt has sky-rocket - asked, going back to the first ques - ed, especially since 1980, and now is tion. MARCH DEADLINE: FEB. 10 around 14 trillion dollars. About I looked at my watch. “I’ve got to $45,000 for every man, woman and go,” I said. “You pay the bill. And APRIL DEADLINE: MARCH 10 child in the country.” leave a nice tip for the waitress.” All letters will be verified, so you must include a name, “That’s incredible,” I said. I walked out the door as she paid daytime phone number, church membership and hometown. “Well, it seems that Congress and the bill. the White House have both appointed Henderson is pastor in Cayce. The South Carolina United Methodist Advocate February 2011, Page 5 Letters to the Editor

Real reason for decline during past decades. What was the number one reason That they were lost mainly for a decline in the United Methodist because our Church has stood rightly Church membership? on the critical issues of our times is We are fortunate that we have an entirely correct. Always one to stand answer. A committee of the UMC did SUPPORTING THE firmly and rightly on the issues of his CHILDREN – Robert day, our founder John Wesley would a survey. The answer was a surprise Bedell of Southern Church for some people. The demise of the Mutual Insurance certainly add his amen and thanks for church school (Sunday School) was Company made a gener - brother Doug’s recent article in the the number one reason. Other rea - ous contribution to Advocate. sons given for a number one mem - Epworth Children’s Rev. Charles T. Jennings (retired) Home’s Early Intervention Myrtle Beach bership decline proved wrong. Center, Columbia, in The number one way that people August. At left, Kay I. come into the United Methodist Richardson, director of Bowling commentary has no Church was through the church Early Intervention Services scriptural basis school. We have not corrected this presents a plaque to Bedell in appreciation of This is a reply to the Rev. Doug demise nor does it seem that we have SMCI’s support, which will Bowling’s commentary. He believes given it a lot of attention. help children in need. our denomination has lost 3 million Rev. Farrell Cox (retired) members because we’ve taken the Pamplico “right stand on the right issues.” He Europe. someone who is of African origin, I later claims the converse: a positive Truly brothers and sisters Dr. Roberts asserts that this was am now reminded that we all are membership statistic indicates likeli - Recently I came across a BBC the only successful migration out of African in origin and that my ances - hood we’ve sold out Christian princi - documentary called “The Incredible Africa and that DNA testing proves tors looked just like that man or ples and are unfaithful to Jesus. Human Journey,” by Dr. Alice that all non-African races developed woman just a few generations ago. This premise has no scriptural Roberts, that reinforced this great from those 200 people! The harsh Ice People from China, Japan, India or basis. Using this rationale, Peter’s biblical truth: all people are brothers Age climate of Europe and Asia was the Americas remind me that their sermon at Pentecost must have been and sisters because we all share a the catalyst that produced the lighter ancestors and mine journeyed togeth - pretty shallow, as 3,000 people were common mother and father. skin of Caucasians and the oriental er out of Africa to populate the rest added to the church that day and the Using modern DNA testing, Dr. features of modern Asians. Racial of the world. Lord continued adding to their num - Roberts reports that all of us distinctions have come about fairly What a pity it is that we have ber. Either efforts on teaching, shar - descended from the first homo sapi - recently, perhaps as recently as 1,000 spent so much time fighting one ing, breaking bread and praising God ens who lived in eastern Africa generations ago. another when the Bible and our were a cultural sell-out, or Bowling’s approximately 150 millennia ago. So now we have two testimonies – shared DNA tell us that we are all assertion is wrong. Then 70,000 years ago, a small band the Scripture and our DNA – telling members of the same human family! As a denomination that has lost 3 of humans – probably fewer than us that we are all members of one Rev. Arthur Holt million members, we can learn from 200 people – left Africa via the Red family here on earth. Memorial UMC, Greer Peter’s sermon. Peter begins with Sea. They wandered around the coast This new information has given Scripture pointing us to Jesus. He of India into Asia and also into me a new perspective. When I see Amen, Doug Bowling references Psalms convincing listen - A loud amen and many thanks to ers that Jesus is not just a man, but “Lord and Christ.” After presenting Valentine’s Day and Black History Month in S.C. the Rev. Doug Bowling for his inci - sive comments (January Advocate) deep theological truth, Peter calls for An overview of what S.C. UMCs The youth at Red Bank UMC , a response: “Repent and be bap- are doing to celebrate Valentine’s Day Lexington, will hold an open about why our United Methodist and Black History Month: Valentine’s Sweetheart Dinner on Church has lost so many members See “Letters,” Page 6 Feb. 19 at 6:30 p.m. with great food At Emmanuel UMC , Anderson, the and entertainment. Reservations can United Methodist Men will host a be made at 803-359-4031 or by visit - Valentine Social on Feb. 12 at 7 p.m. ing www.redbankumc.com. Sharing Success Stories Emmanuel will also have a tribute to Trinity UMC , Bennettsville, will black history during Sunday morning present its annual Black History worship services for the month of Celebration on Feb. 27 at 3 p.m. The Four-fold communication: E-mail, February. guest speaker is Rep Bakari Sellers. Bethel UMC , Kingstree, will host The host pastor is the Rev. Jeffrey website, newsletter and bulletin its annual Black History Program on Salley. All are invited to attend. Editor’s note: The following is a church website, e-mailed to church the fourth Sunday of February at 11 Wesley Grove UMC , Cottageville, a.m. The speaker will be one of will have a Black History Luncheon new feature in the Advocate show - members who are in the list, Bethel’s own, Jimmy McKnight. The on Feb. 20 following the 11 a.m. serv - casing successful ideas that works placed in our bulletin and listed in guest choir will be Francis Marion ice. All are invited to attend. The for United Methodist churches the monthly newsletter. University Gospel, Florence. The Church School is asking each mem - across South Carolina. Share your The news section from the theme for the program will be African ber and the pastor’s family to bring church’s success story by e-mail - Sunday bulletin is e-mailed by Americans and the Civil War. canned goods and other non-perish - Members from the congregation who able items to the church so they can ing advocate@ umcsc.org. Friday of each week. This is added have served in various branches make up food baskets to help people to the “What’s Happening” page and/or wars will also be recognized at in the community. We have a diverse and spread- of the website. If the church office this program. Wesley UMC , Moncks Corner, out church membership who wish is closed, I am notified of the situ - Mount Pleasant Walterboro observes two events in the month of to stay in the loop with news from ation and also have the member - Family , Summerville, will celebrate February. The first, Academic both holidays. On the fifth Sunday in Olympics, brings colleges, universities different locales: military in ship e-mail and send it out. I’m the January, they will have a Red and and technical school to the church Afghanistan/Korea, seasonal mem - backup communicator! Black program featuring one of their Feb. 13 to allow these institutions of bers in Florida and the Bahamas, So news is shared with the local lay ministers at 3 p.m. They will higher education to meet students, nursing homes/assisted living church office (preacher-secretary), continue with a month-long celebra - families and the community. The facilities, professionals on the road web manager and newsletter edi - tion throughout February. Members Claflin University Concert Choir will have chosen to wear African attire render a small concert during the 11 with their jobs and upper- tor. and colors along with moments in a.m. service. The second is the elevation mountain home resi - Occasionally, news of the black history to celebrate the life of Young Brothers To Men Conference, dents. church is sent to local newspapers. those who have paved the way for so Feb. 19 and 23-27, held to raise When news of a death, weather many successful African-Americans some serious questions regarding cancellation or change of – Shared by Mary Wolfe, Grace today. All are invited to celebrate with how to save, encourage and restore them. young men to their better selves. schedule occurs, it is posted on the United Methodist Church, Pickens Page 6, February 2011 The South Carolina United Methodist Advocate LETTERS: On declining membership, giving back From Page 5 party on Saturday evening with Is homosexuality a sin? I really appreciate the point, tized, every one of you, in the name many family and friends there to The argument about homosexuali - because on some levels it is valid of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of celebrate with him that special time ty seems endless and unfortunately and helpful. He’s right that if we your sins.” of turning 16. The gifts he received has been a most divisive issue in the stay true to the Gospel we will We propose most growing for his birthday totaled $325. Christian community. I would like sometimes offend people. It is very churches are not selling out to cul - On Sunday morning he told about to explore a particular perspective difficult to invite folks to hear the ture; rather, they are sold out to the his birthday and the gifts he that may be helpful. good news while simultaneously person of Jesus Christ. Issues are received and announced that he Medical science has proven to reminding folks that God has a cross not unimportant, but they are not of would like for the total amount to go many, but certainly not all, that sex - for them to carry. ultimate importance – Jesus is. toward the Reagan’s Well project. ual orientation is not a choice – it is Still, even though I see many of We further propose if United Way to go, Xavier. We are proud in our DNA. If so, how can homo - our leaders taking prophetic stands, Methodists spent more time deepen - of you and your generosity and sexuality be a sin? I just don’t see that same passion in ing our relationship with Jesus, compassion for others. For those who believe sexual ori - the church as a whole. In fact, too issues would take care of them - Rev. Noble Miller entation is a choice, I would ask this often we don’t have much passion selves. Whaley Street UMC, Columbia question: When did you decide to be about anything, whether it be social Unlike the Rev. Bowling, when heterosexual? In my own case, I justice issues, evangelism, missions, someone leaves our church because Bowling missed the mark decided to be heterosexual when I worship, administration, whatever. of disagreement, we don’t say, The Rev. Doug Bowling’s guest decided to be right-handed, have Perhaps what we have is too much “Glad he left. Whew! Lord have commentary was thought-provoking, brown hair and gray eyes. “comfortable.” mercy!” Rather we’re saddened the but he missed the mark. We aren’t In the not too distant future, I We hear lots of talk about wants gap of Christian understanding losing membership because we’re expect the medical science conclu - and not so much about God’s call could not be bridged and hope to embracing the Gospel but because sion to become widely accepted and that might shake things up or better articulate what it means to we’re discarding it. the debate quieted. However, a demand spiritual maturity or put a answer the call of Jesus. I agree we need to keep our doors minority will continue to use the cross on our shoulders. We hear lots If we are at a point where we’re open to all sinners. Our goal should Bible to condemn homosexuality. In of talk about God helping us glad 3 million people walk out our be to get them to repent their sin and a recent study (“When Corrections through hard times and God protect - doors, then we say, “Lord have accept responsibility for their Fail”) the researchers found that ing us. We praise God and celebrate mercy on us all!” actions. We’re all guilty of sin, when people were given facts that life. But we are very cautious about The Revs. Jeff Kersey and Brian including ministers, and we should - should change their opinions, many creating environments that allow Rainwater, pastors n’t try to say it isn’t sin because people actually held more firmly to people to listen for or answer God’s Mount Horeb UMC, Lexington society accepts it. their incorrect views. call, because God’s call we can’t Leviticus 18:22: “Thou shalt not To this day many Christians, control. Helping Reagan’s Well lie with mankind, as with wom - based on the Bible, will go to their Truly, many good United It began with the challenge of the ankind: it is abomination.” The soci - graves believing the age of our plan - Methodists are passionate about many Advent Conspiracy to consider redi - ety of Sodom and Gomorrah accept - et Earth is in the order of 6,000 to things, but too often that passion is recting what we spend on gifts at ed sin as commonplace, and the 6,500 years, although scientists checked before God finds a cross to Christmas and do more for those Lord destroyed it utterly. Jesus agree on an age around 4.5 billion give us. Why bother with going on to who are in need. Then along came never said we should destroy or years. Some things will never perfection, in faith or spirituality or the invitation from the Rev. John ignore the Old Testament. change. society, when we’re comfortable Culp to assist in digging a well for I wouldn’t know the sexual orien - Bill Nelson enough with what we have? Jangavya Village in Malawi. tation of members unless they St. Mark UMC, Salem Also, we have to be careful not to The cost of digging the well is informed me. That appears to be fla - misuse our call to social justice and $10,000 and will benefit more than grantly brandishing your unrepen - Too much ‘comfortable?’ then be lazy about all the other 1,000 community members. They tant sin. While acceptable in a How thrilled I was to read the things the Lord commanded us to have no clean water, and the risk of reform-minded member, we expect Rev. Doug Bowling’s guest com - do. We can find a way to take tough diseases and high infant mortality is a higher standard from our clergy. mentary in the January issue that stands, AND be compassionate, great. We are also being asked by our tried to link our membership losses AND be evangelistic, AND... “Wells are the water of life,” said leadership to accept unrepentant to our stances on social justice Rev. Ken Owens the Rev. Michael Christensen, the immigrants who have committed issues. Lexington UMC, Lexington founder of World Hope Corps in felonies by their entry without trying 2007. “If we can provide clean to get them to take responsibility for water to villages without water, we their actions. A woman’s choice to can save hundreds of lives because abort a baby seems on very shaky one out of five children die under Gospel ground. the age of 5 because of diseases like Peter drew his own sword to cholera, dysentery and malaria.” defend Jesus, but we are to believe The Whaley Street Church family Jesus permits swords but not guns? contributed $725 to the construction If the Good Samaritan arrived a lit - of Reagan’s Well. tle earlier, should he have ignored But the story continues. the victim’s need for rescue until As Xavier Rivera approached his after the robbers were done? Gun 16th birthday, he wanted to do control has tripled the UK’s violent something different. He talked to me crime rate (killing with tools other about having his party here at the than guns). Nazi Germany, Stalinist church, and I told him I thought it Soviet Union and modern Iran are was a wonderful idea. (Young peo - good examples of the success of gun ple in church is always a wonderful control. idea.) We must all learn to work togeth - He said that he wanted to do er, but that doesn’t mean we should something different with birthday abandon the Gospel for political cor - gifts. Rather than gifts for him, he rectness. wanted people to give money so he could contribute his birthday gifts to Pat Murray, chairman a needy cause. St. James UMC Council He had a wonderful birthday Goose Creek The South Carolina United Methodist Advocate February 2011, Page 7 SPIRIT SINGERS: ‘Not for wimps or prima donnas’ From Page 1 Spirit begins to fill the room, glowing Spirit Singer Auditions 2011 and growing as the melody eases along Summerville – Feb. 26 to a close. Marion – Feb. 26 Audience members wipe tears from York – March 5 their eyes, their breath catching: This is Columbia – March 12 the youth of our United Methodist Visit www.umcsc.org/youth for an application and more information. Church, voices lifted for the Lord in holy worship. These are the Spirit Singers. she says. “We’re not looking for a bunch of Conference’s best-kept secret prima donnas. We need people who Since 1987, the Spirit Singers have will work and blend together, become a traveled South Carolina in a Christian team for the good of the group,” Long ministry of song, fellowship, leadership said. “We may have a great soloist and worship that glorifies and praises come in, but some of my biggest mis - God as testimony to His love. takes have been allowing that person in; Then packaged under a different it can really hurt the group. I look for name – the S.C. Conference Youth Kathy Jo Long (foreground) is director, but the Spirit Singers are a full team com - attitude and heart, as well as talent.” Choir – they started under the leader - prising six other regular staffers (including a choir dean, accompanist and nurse), The young singers come from all ship of June Willson, with Stan Farr a host of committed parents and the youth themselves. (Photos by Jessica Connor) over the state, and their parents are from West Virginia as director. In its expected to help in any way possible, early days, the choir met solely as a from driving them to performance summer mission event. weekends to rearranging family sched - But about 10 years ago, when Kathy ules to make time for the group. Jo Long became director and their Some of the singers come from huge name changed, the Spirit Singers transi - churches with big music programs, but tioned to a year-round event with four a lot come from tiny churches with no weekend performances during the year, youth group or choir at all – they just plus a weeklong camp culminating in a love to sing. Participants include foot - cross-state choir travel. ball players, dancers, volleyball players, Today, they have a reputation as a cheerleaders and chess club members. solid, spirited group of young voices In fact, they don’t need to be musical who work tirelessly to bring a song- or have experience at all, as long as filled worship experience to UMCs all they sound good. over South Carolina. “It’s helpful, but I take them from “We may be one of the best kept “We become family and thoroughly enjoy our times together,” said Spirit Singers how they present themselves to me – Director Kathy Jo Long, here with several members of the choir. From left are A.J. secrets of the conference, since people Dendy, Long, Alexis Gathers, Emmy Baker and Murphy Belton. though that can be ticklish because who hear the group are constantly say - young people may fall apart in an audi - ing they never heard of us before,” were singing to the congregation,” said to draw peace from Jesus. tion,” Long said. Long said. a teary-eyed Lisa Dissington, member Scripture peppers the presentation, “It’s not for wimps, is it?” she added, Long and the rest of the team – six of St. John’s UMC in Rock Hill, where with individual singers speaking memo - laughing. other regular staffers (including a choir the Singers performed in early January. rized passages as a prelude to each Auditions are held in various loca - dean, accompanist and nurse), a host of Wesley Runyan, 17, of Main Street song. tions (see box, this page). committed parents and the youth them - UMC, Greenwood, said his experience All of this creates an atmosphere of Jackson Varner, 16, a leader for the selves – work tirelessly to master the with the Singers has been life-changing holy worship that often surprises those praise band at Bethany UMC, year’s lineup of songs. on many levels. He was “roped into” who witness it. Summerville, said he appreciates how Camp is a songster’s version of the the group by a youth leader at his “They act surprised that they’re so the group has improved his vocals. Army’s basic training: grueling prac - church, and at the time, he wasn’t sure good,” said accompanist Beth After three years in the Singers, he tices, musical drilling, rehearsal after what he believed. Lewallen, whose daughter Grace is a enjoys being able to fellowship with rehearsal, all culminating in a four- or Then, in the middle of a song, he Spirit Singer. “People will say, ‘I had no other teens and feel closer to God while even five-part harmony choir. found Christ. idea what to expect,’ and the Scriptures doing what he loves: singing. Songs range from traditional to the “I was saved – it just hit me like a really speak to them on a spiritual level. “You’re not just sitting there,” said kind of contemporary praise you hear brick wall,” said Runyan, who said he It’s a message, not a performance.” Varner, who is now training to be a on a Christian radio station. The singers now knows what he wants to do in life. Belton said it changes many people’s minister. “You really feel it.” don’t know the music until they arrive Emmy Baker, 17, a first-year Spirit perspective of teenagers. On that chilly January morning in at camp, held at Spartanburg Methodist Singer from Moncks Corner UMC, “A lot of people think we’re all the Rock Hill, Long stands before the hun - College, but by the time they leave, Bonneau, agrees. same, and after [we sing], they’ll come dreds gathered in the sanctuary to intro - they’re expected to know it fully. “I used to sing just because I like it,” up and say now they know the world duce her flock of young singers. After all, they’re not just singing. she said. “Now I actually feel the mes - will be alright,” said Belton, who now She talks about how music is a holy They’re singing for the Lord. sage.” hopes to create her own school of gift from God, how “sing” is the most- “It makes me better,” Julia Belton, The Singers present more than a con - music one day. used action verb in the Bible. She 18, of Shiloh UMC, Camden, said of cert or a performance, Long said. It’s a “This is the youth the United encourages the audience to use “ten-fin - her four years singing with the Spirit worship experience. Methodist Church is bringing up,” said gered amens” (clapping) as the Spirit Singers. “Every time I come, I’m At the 11 a.m. service Jan. 9 at St. Judy Suggs, choir dean. “People are so moves them. reminded I’m a child of God. It’s John’s UMC, Rock Hill, the Singers touched.” And as the Spirit Singers begin, their almost like a revival.” took the place of the pastor’s sermon. voices lifted heavenward, the room is After all, the words of their songs are No wimps or prima donnas filled with the sounds of their songs, the Really feeling it one big, melodic discourse on the Lord. The Spirit Singers are not open to warmth of the Spirit and the rush of And it’s not just rote. The Singers With hymns like “Knowing You,” just anyone – it’s an auditioned group of those ten-fingered amens. have a reputation for really feeling the “Come to the Cross,” “I’ve Got Peace teens aged 13 through high school. The Singers’ last performance of the words they sing, then communicating Like a River” and “Give Me Your Long, a Winthrop University music 2010-11 season will be at 10:30 a.m. that rapture to the audience. Eyes,” the songs praise the Lord and education graduate with a master’s from March 13 at Cayce UMC. For more on “It was fabulous, a treasure. You encourage scriptural calls to serve the Wesley in Cambridge, Mass., seeks a the choir, visit www.umcsc.org/youth could tell they truly believed what they least of these, to seek heavenly strength, full four-part choir, a “big group song,” and click the “Spirit Singers” tab. Page 8, February 2011 The South Carolina United Methodist Advocate HOMELESS: Pure love From Page 1 been living in, maybe find a job planting Mission Statement for flowers or cutting grass. The Men’s Shelter “I’m a recovering addict, and I want For I was hungry and you gave me to make it,” McKee said. “It’s a wonder - food, I was thirsty and you gave ful place to be.” me something to drink, I was a Pure, Christian love is what The stranger and you welcomed me. … Men’s Shelter is all about – and it is Truly I tell you, just as you did it to entirely laity operated. While St. Mark’s one of the least of these who are members of my family, pastors support their efforts, the lay lead - you did it to me. ers came up with the idea, did the research, raised the money, got the vol - – Matthew 25:35, 40, unteers and opened its doors. The Wesley Study Bible “It makes me very emotional,” said the Rev. Barrett Alewine, St. Mark’s shelter has a strict no drugs, weapons or Scottie McKee, left, enjoys a meal with the other guests and a volunteer. The senior pastor. “They have become the alcohol policy, and they wave a security men are served “really good food” at the shelter: a beef roast, pork chops, chick - hands and feet of Jesus, and I’m so wand over every man, even if he’s been en soup – once, steak, salad and a baked potato. (Photo by Jessica Connor) excited to be part of a congregation that there every night since it opened, like takes seriously the least of these.” McKee. Start a shelter at your church The shelter opens every night that The men put every item from their The Men’s Shelter at St. Mark UMC wants to help others start homeless temperatures are forecast to dip below pockets into a plastic bag, which is shelters just like they did. For advice and information, call Jim Conley at 864- freezing – including Christmas – and labeled, stapled and locked up until they 389-1230. serves any homeless man in leave the next morning. Greenwood. (Nearby Main Street UMC Then, they make their beds, fix a bev - Creswell is especially touched that the one – love God with all your heart and serves women and children.) Volunteers erage and take a seat at a table, where men always greet him by name even love your brother,” Martin said. “When I arrive at St. Mark’s Rivers Street servers soon bring their dinner. though he sometimes can’t remember see these gentlemen there, I look at them Worship Center around 6 p.m., and a But make no mistake – they are con - their names. as brothers. What can we do to help this two-man team heads to the Greenwood sidered to be “guests,” not customers or “It’s opened my eyes to people you brother who’s down on his luck? It does - Soup Kitchen to pick up that evening’s clients. wouldn’t normally come into contact n’t really matter what happened a year guests in the church bus. “We put a mint à la Marriott on top of with and allows you to grow as a per - ago or a month ago or a year ago. They Back at the shelter, the men enjoy a their pillow every night,” said Jim son, to see people in a way that opens have a need right now.” meal, fellowship, a hot shower and a Conley, who led the shelter’s founding your eyes to the blessings you have,” he One way he helped meet that need good night’s sleep, plus breakfast the but takes careful pains to be “just one of said. was through what he and Conley have next morning before they depart. the volunteers.” Carroll Burch, volunteer bus driver, dubbed “the ultimate foot washing.” On average, five to seven men come The volunteers do all they can to said it helps him appreciate his own, One of the shelter guests, confined to a to the shelter each night, though they’ve make the men feel special, cared for, more comfortable life: “It helps you not wheelchair, hadn’t had a shower in seen as many as 10 and can accommo - loved – just as Christ loves us. take for granted your hot thermostat and weeks. His only caregiver was his date far more. Kitchen coordinator Chris McCoy, warm bed.” grandmother, who had unexpectedly Shelter volunteer Cathy Trevino, who who nicknamed herself “the fudge lady,” On nights the shelter is not open, died, and the man was physically unable coordinates intake and administration, said the men are served really good food McCoy wonders about the men – where to wash himself. said she had been praying for a local at the shelter: a beef roast, pork chops, are they? Have they gotten enough to Martin helped the man, washing him mission she could help regularly. homemade chicken noodle soup, eat? Do they have a warm place to stay? from head to toe and helping to dress “Everyone’s always saying, sausage biscuits, grits, eggs, breakfast “I am always looking now,” she said. him in a brand new sweat suit. Then, ‘Somebody needs to do something, casseroles, once steak and salad and a “I see someone with a backpack, and I Martin arranged for a former barber to somebody has to open a shelter.’ God baked potato. She vividly remembers want to say, ‘Do you have a place to come to the shelter and give all of the told me, ‘You are that somebody,’” the night her spiritual formation group live? Can I help you?’ I don’t only guests a free haircut and shave for Trevino said. “Nobody else would, but provided fried chicken for the men. because I don’t want to embarrass them Christmas. somebody has to.” “I’ve never seen people eat so much in case they’re not homeless.” Martin said he was deeply touched by The eight-member group of core vol - food in my life – six pieces of chicken Alewine said that when Conley the gleam of newfound confidence in unteers running the shelter say they now apiece!” McCoy said. approached him about starting a shelter, the disabled man’s eyes. have a deeper mission – in addition to McCoy said she does all she can to his gut reaction was doubt about the “I saw this gentleman as my brother helping these men, they want to inspire make sure the men feel comfortable and group being able to pull it off. in the truest sense,” Martin said. “We’re and assist other churches in starting shel - appreciated: “They are deserving; they But organizers rose to the challenge, here for a purpose, to reach out. We need ters of their own. deserve this,” she said. “They are guests, raising funds and mobilizing volunteer to take care of those who can’t take care “There shouldn’t be homeless people and it can never be abstract.” support. Nine churches from several of themselves.” wandering the street when there’s a After dinner, the men shower, talk, denominations are partnering with St. United Methodist Church in every town play cards or read before settling down Mark, many sending people to help Helping other churches in South Carolina,” said volunteer Dodie to sleep. weekly. Volunteers said not a penny of Volunteers want to do all they can to Conley. “You can’t do everything, but And the next night, if it’s cold, it all church money has been spent on the help other churches start shelters, too. you can do something. We thought, begins again. shelter, and they plan to keep it that way. Many times, people have a miscon - ‘This is something we can do.’ And you “It takes a lot of planning and a lot of Karen Wright, a member of Church ception of homeless people, Conley said. don’t have to be a large-membership manpower,” said volunteer Jonathan of the Resurrection, the Episcopal “Some people see them on the streets church to do this. You just have to open Creswell. “You can’t do it every night or church in Greenwood, said she grew up and think they’re lazy,” he said. “After the door.” all the time, but if you have a lot of vol - poor, so she has an idea of what these meeting and getting to know individuals, unteers who can put in a little bit of time, men are going through. She is grateful to we find that many are not trying to beat Guests, not clients you can do it.” be able to help them: “It’s a blessing and the system, but they are living it.” It takes a lot of people to run a shelter an opportunity to be able do this – to pay His wife, Dodie, agrees. – eight to 10 volunteers a night working Giving and receiving it forward.” “One of my favorite stories is about in shifts, including cooks, drivers, intake Many of the volunteers said they the beach that is littered with starfish, and setup workers, servers, innkeepers have grown as Christians because of ‘The ultimate foot washing’ and a boy is walking the beach, collect - and a cleanup crew. their involvement with the shelter. Shelter volunteer George Martin said ing the sand dollars and throwing them When the bus pulls up at the Rivers “The last three or four months I’ve his experience has deepened his faith back out to sea,” she said. “A man came Street Worship Center, the men file in probably been more emotional than I and helped him truly understand the by and said, ‘What are you doing? You and wait in line, where they provide have in my life,” Conley said. “I get a concept of brotherly love. He said he is can’t possibly help them all.’ The boy their name, picture identification and lump in my throat just telling a story not as judgmental as he used to be. threw one more back in a said, ‘See? I Social Security number, if possible. The about something happening here.” “Our charge as Christians is a great made a difference for that one.’” The South Carolina United Methodist Advocate February 2011, Page 9 Ministries & Missions Dawsey recommits itself to service after devastating fire An outsider might classify Dawsey its community. United Methodist Church as a congre - Throughout the month of gation in need. While a devastating fire November, Dawsey’s members col - in the summer of 2008 completely lected non-perishable food items and Dawsey’s members col - destroyed their facilities, Dawsey monetary donations to be used to pur - lected non-perishable food UMC’s members have yet to rebuild. chase additional food items. At the end items and monetary dona - Such a tragedy, coupled with the of the month, members carried the tions for Florence’s numerous difficulties faced by the con - donations to Florence’s Harvest Hope Harvest Hope Food Bank, contributing 885 lbs. of gregation since, could have easily crip - Food Bank. The small, “needy” con - food to aid the food bank’s pled the congregation’s spirit. Yet gregation was proud to contribute 885 efforts. rather than concede to self-pity and lbs. of food to aid the food bank’s defeat, Dawsey has instead recommit - efforts. Harvest Hope the following week to tragic, but we feel that God is leading ted itself to making a difference within Dawsey’s members also returned to assist in packing and preparing boxes us to view this transition time as an of food for distribution. opportunity to start over and to recom - “Dawsey is a small church, but we mit ourselves to ministry. God is giv - are quickly growing a large heart for ing our church a new beginning. We UMM spiritual retreat is Feb. 11-13 those in need within our community,” would like to show the members of With the theme “A Man’s Heart,” Summerville Parish, where he said the Rev. Ricky Howell, Dawsey our community that they, too, can have the S.C. United Methodist Men served nine years, moved from pastor. “The loss of our facilities was new beginnings through Jesus Christ.” Spiritual Retreat will feature there to an appointment at St. John- keynote speakers Dr. Rodney K. Wesley Chapel, where he served 13 Powell and Dr. Frederick N. years before coming to the York St. Yebuah, along with eight heart- James Charge in June 2007. In this Epworth News themed workshops. charge he serves Wesley, St. James The retreat will be Feb. 11-13. and Hopewell UMCs. Powell has served Trinity United In addition to keynote addresses, Jill: Resilience beyond her years Methodist Church in Aiken for eight workshops will challenge and Jill could not wait to spend the letter from Spartanburg Methodist more than 12 years. He is a fellow stimulate attendees. Christmas holiday with her mother, College, where she will begin classes of the Aller’s Academy of Older Saturday workshops include seg - because she had exciting news to as a freshman in August. She Adult Ministry and serves on both ments on missions, adventure, well - share with her in person. couldn’t wait to tell her mother. the S.C. Conference Council on ness, prayer, the “outcast” and Epworth Children’s Home has But after a day at home this Older Adult Ministry and is the scouting. Sunday workshops are on been home to Jill since she was in Christmas holiday, she made the president of the Southeastern ministry through laity and ministry the fourth grade, because her mother decision to leave. Jill was heartbro - Jurisdiction Council of Older through the UMM. has been in and out of prison and ken, but she made the difficult deci - Adults. He is also on the Board of The event will be held at The struggles with a drug addiction. sion to call her Epworth cottage par - Trustees for the Advocate . Radisson Hotel and Conference When her mother is doing well, Jill ent to pick her up early from her Originally from Ghana, West Center in Columbia. Registration visits for short periods of time – time visit. Jill realized her mother was Africa, Yebuah came to the United information is available at Jill always looks forward to. using drugs again. As much as she States in 1974. In the S.C. www.ummsc.org or page 24 of this Jill will be graduating from Dreher loves her and wanted to spend time Conference, he has served in the edition. High School this May. She plays with her, she decided she should not basketball for Epworth, adores her be around her mother in that condi - big sister from Big Brothers Big tion. Interfaith Community Services Sisters and is a leader in the United “Visits home are precious to our Methodist Youth Fellowship. During children, yet Jill showed once again offers ‘Path to Faith’ seminar her years living at Epworth, she has her resilience and motivation for An interfaith forum on spiritual Interfaith Community Services looked forward to attending Asbury wanting something more for her life journeys is planned for Feb. 18 at supports food, safety and literacy Hills and UMYF conference events than her circumstances dictate,” the Incarnation Lutheran Church on programs for children in need who each year. The other girls in Brandes said. Divine Street. are served by family home childcare Anderson Cottage look to her as a Jill plans to study social work at The forum will feature author providers. The forum is a fundraiser leader. She even holds a little job on Spartanburg Methodist, and she was Cecile Holmes, six-time nominee of for the work of Interfaith and its campus for extra money while main - accepted on a full scholarship. Each the Pulitzer Prize and Professor of goal to expand services to preschool taining a better than 3.0 grade point Sunday in worship, Jill prays that her Journalism at University of South children. average. mother will find the same peace of Carolina. Refreshments and a sign - For registration information, call “Jill is the most motivated student Christ that she has found while at ing for Holmes’ book, “Four 803-252-8390, email MMcKee@ I’ve had in the higher education pro - Epworth. Women, Three Faiths,” are at 5 interfaithcommunityservices.org or gram,” said Laurie Brandes, minister Located in Columbia, Epworth p.m., and the program begins at 6 visit www.interfaithcommunity of higher education and youth for Children’s Home was founded as a p.m. services.org. Epworth Children’s Home. “She is mission agency of the United seizing her opportunity for a different Methodist Church to care for Civil life than her mother, and I am so War orphans. Today an independent Caregivers conference set for Feb. 17 proud of her for recognizing and agency, it continues to work in part - All family caregivers are invited Models of respite, ways to going after her dreams despite her nership with the community and the to Respite Solutions’ fourth annual include loved ones with disabilities, circumstances.” church to meet the needs of youth, Respite Conference, set for Feb. 17. how to counsel family caregivers to Jill just received her acceptance regardless of religious affiliation. Held from 8:30 a.m. to 3:15 p.m., accept and ask for help, success sto - the conference will be at St. ries, and new ideas will be present - Andrews Baptist Church in ed. Columbia. The Rev. Von Reynolds will Family caregivers and those who serve as keynote speaker. work with family caregivers are Early registration runs until Feb. Share The Love encouraged to attend, including 8. Buy a loved one a $15 Advocate subscription! Send their name and address, your name and a check payable to the Advocate , chaplains, lay pastors and Stephen For more information, visit 4908 Colonial Dr., Columbia, SC 29203. We’ll send a card notifying them of the gift. ministers. www.screspitecoalition.org. Page 10, February 2011 The South Carolina United Methodist Advocate Sitting down with the Robbie Seay Band The Advocate got to chat with Q. What do you hope your music Robbie Seay, front man and songwriter accomplishes? for contemporary Christian group the A. We always hope when people Robbie Seay Band, which headlines the pick up our CD they get a sense of real S.C. Conference’s youth event life. I’m not a rock star. I have three Revolution Feb. 11-13. Seay and his kids at home; I’m just like you are. I’ve bandmates hail from Houston, where had great tragedy in life, and I hope Seay’s brother, Chris, pastors Ecclesia people can connect to that. The Robbie Seay Church and where their band serves as Band headlines the United Methodist worship leader. With three major-label Q. What are some of the chal - youth event albums under their belt – their critically lenges you face in your music min - Revolution in acclaimed 2005 Sparrow Records istry? Columbia Feb. 11- debut, “Better Days”; their 2007 sopho - A. I love what we do, so you don’t 13. Bandmates, more effort, “Give Yourself Away”; and ever want to complain; it’s a gift. But from left, include Michael “Tank” their latest CD, “Miracle” – the band is we’re a little older now, some of us Lisenbe (drums), known for producing music people can have families, and it’s always a chal - Robbie Seay, Ryan relate to. lenge trying to find balance. It’s fighting Owens (bass) and, Here, Seay shares insight about the the temptations we face as musicians or not pictured, Matt band and its music ministry. anybody faces – not just the temptation “Frodo” Kidd (gui - tar). To attend the of always wanting to be greater, more youth event, visit Q. What role does your faith have well known, commended for what you www.umcsc.org. in your music? do, and just realizing God’s love is suf - A. Clearly it’s a huge part of what we ficient for us. We don’t play music for several friends passing away. A dear be different.” To me, the biggest com - do. We don’t go just to entertain; we go accolades or record sales, but that’s not friend was murdered in our church. It pliment is, “You guys kind of do your to lead and have people sing with us, easy. God doesn’t let me just live life was a pretty crazy season for us. We own thing. You’re different.” and not just sing, but respond and wor - for me or these things that come our found ourselves praying to God in ways ship together. We feel a call to be artists, way. Let me live my life for you – to we had never prayed before. For my Q. Is there a favorite song that you as well as leaders and worship leaders. get up and share songs and share my wife and I, as we began to seek God in perform? heart a bit. Scripture and prayer in our own com - A. When you get to play songs they Q. Do you have any United munity, we believed deeply that He is know and they get to sing to, that’s a Methodist ties we should know Q. Who are some of your musical the God of miracles. God can move, really unique thing. I love singing about? influences? intervene, but I can never ever express “Song of Hope.” There are also a cou - A. I’ve played in United Methodist A. So many, and that’s what’s fun in a song that understanding. I don’t ple on the new record, like “Oh, Love churches across the country. I was on about music. I love to collect old vinyls. know how or why He chooses to move, That Will Not Let Me Go.” It’s an old staff at Woodlands United Methodist I love Frank Sinatra on vinyl, and peo - but we’ve been through a season of hymn, but for some reason it always Church in Houston, and so was our gui - ple are like, “Really? I never would love and sorrow, and we believe God is moves me. tar player, Matt. We led worship at have pegged you as a Frank Sinatra the God of miracles, … and I am going Woodlands for many years. And at First guy!” I like Rich Mullins. I went to to seek and trust Him no matter what. Q. Do you intend for your songs to United Methodist in Houston we have a school with David Crowder. I love his Ultimately, you celebrate that God is cross denominational lines, and what lot of great friends. music, and we’re great fans of his. good, God is just. I cannot explain a does that mean to you when it does? Music is a gift from God. It really is its holy God to you, don’t have that kind of A. Definitely – we don’t just interact Q. Were you and your band own language. If you are not exploring mind, but I do know I trust in Him. with one denomination or one group of always Christians, or did you become that language, then open up your mind a believers. ... The body of Christ is big Christian at some point in your lives? little bit. I even like classical music. Q. Is there anything you try to do and diverse, and maybe we don’t A. I grew up in a home with Christ musically in an effort to be different always agree on some of the secondary being a huge part of who we were and Q. What does the title of your lat - from other Christian artists? issues of faith, but if there is one thing what we did. Coming to faith was est CD, “Miracle,” mean to you? A. I love to listen to a lot of different we can agree on, it’s that God loves and always really natural for me. But our A. For about a year in 2009 and in kinds of music, and one of the benefits forgives you, and grace is being extend - journeys are all going to be different. A the beginning of 2010, my family and I of that is not to get stuck in the mindset ed to you. lot of the guys (in the band) have differ - went through a season of several close of, “This is what I have to do in order to ent stories. friends becoming ill, battling cancer, make this happen; this is how I have to – By Advocate Editor Jessica Connor

Columbia College African-American HIV/AIDS Women’s Conference recognized for set for March 3-5 at Clarion Hotel in Columbia community Some quick facts: HIV/AIDS is Downtown. Partnerships for your Ministry; and engagement the leading cause of death for Featured speakers include the Rev. What Can We Say About HIV/AIDS: COLUMBIA – Columbia College has African-American women ages 25- Telley Gadson, Dr. Bambi Gaddist, Preaching Tools and Sermon been selected for the 2010 Carnegie 34. Dr. Cheryl Anderson and Dr. Angela Development on How to Address Classification for Community In South Carolina, more than 75 Moses, among other national and HIV/AIDS in Your Congregation. Engagement. percent of new HIV infections occur local workshop leaders. Feb. 10 is the hotel booking dead - Columbia College joins the distin - among African-American women. Workshops include Developing an line, and Feb. 11 is the registration guished company of only 311 institu - To help bring attention to this, the Effective HIV/AIDS Ministry; The deadline. Registration cost is $50. tions in the nation that have received African-American HIV/AIDS Basics of HIV Testing and For a registration form, visit this honor from The Carnegie Women’s Conference will be held Counseling; Addressing the Tough http://new.gbgm-umc.org/about/ Foundation for the Advancement of March 3-5 in Columbia. Issues: Women, Domestic Violence us/cim/programs/developers/registra Teaching. Sponsored by the United and its Contribution to HIV/AIDS; tionform/ or email litishiasmith@ The designation recognizes colleges Methodist Church Global AIDS Real Talk: HIV/AIDS Prevention gmail.com. and universities that have institutional - Fund Committee, the conference will Strategies for Women; Strategies for To book your room directly, call ized community engagement as a key be held at the Clarion Hotel Building Community-Based the Clarion at 803-771-8711. part of their identity and culture, curricu - lar programs, outreach and partnerships. Education Restoration beyond isolation South Carolina sent a strong repre - sentation to Nashville in January for the Convocation for Pastors of Black Churches. Held Jan. 4-11, the General Board of Discipleship spon - sored the convocation along with Vance Ross, who was one of plenary leaders and the coordinator for this national event. The theme was “Restoration Beyond Isolation for a Liberated Community” (1 Kings South Carolina pastors, along with the Rev. Vance Ross 19:11-18). and Dr. Herbert Marbury, gather for a smile.

Dr. Herbert Marbury, Vanderbilt Presenters included Dr. Cedric Bridgeforth, district superin - Divinity School, tendent of the Los Angeles District; Dr. Gennifer Brooks, speaks about Cynthia Wilson, convocation musi - Garrett-Evangelical Seminary; Rev. Geraldine McClellan, internalized cian and praise leader, leads inspir - senior pastor, Gainesville UMC, Gainesville, Fla.; and many oppression. ing and powerful praise and worship. more. (Photos and information by the Rev. Cathy Mitchell) eChristianEd launches new webinar programming next month Will offer paraprofessional examine various parables; Cathy courses are now in development, II: Foundations for Christian Miller, instructional technology and Compton is hoping the youth Education. After that, students can certification in youth, children’s coordinator at Columbia College, track will be ready by the fall take any of four advanced, age- ministries in the fall will lead a webinar on cyber safety; semester. level-specific courses on children’s, Dr. George Hunter, professor of Started in 2001, eChristianEd youth, adult or family ministries. The eChristianEd program at evangelism at Asbury Theological began as a ministry of the S.C. The program is entirely self-sus - Columbia College will present two Seminary, will lead a webinar on Conference of the United Methodist taining, and students who take five new offerings this year designed to evangelism; and there will be an Church to help people in the confer - of the six courses are able to get strengthen Christian education min - additional webinar dealing with ence serving in youth ministry (staff paraprofessional certification in istries in local congregations. worship leadership. or laity). At the time, it was only general Christian education, in addi - First, beginning in March, the Registration begins in early one course focusing on youth min - tion to the more specialized certifi - program will offer four webinars for February at www.echristianed.com. istry training, part online, part face- cation beginning in the fall. the public (two in March, two in “We’re excited – this is a new to-face. “We are meeting a real need and April). The webinars are three-hour avenue of ministry for us, for peo - But the program quickly pro - a niche,” Compton said. “More peo - sessions for people to log in, see a ple who can’t participate in the cur - gressed, and today, eChristianEd ple are going into church ministries, lecture and interact with a professor rent courses and to tackle new top - comprises six semester-long courses being hired from local congrega - about important issues facing ics we haven’t been able to do taught entirely online for students tions to serve them, but don’t have a Christian educators and those serv - before,” said Dr. Dawn Compton, all over the nation. (This semester degree or background in Christian ing in a variety of ministries in the director of eChristianEd. includes its first student from education. But they have a desire local church. Second, eChristianEd recently Alaska, Compton said.) and a passion to serve Jesus Christ, Dr. Rowan Crews, religion pro - was approved to offer paraprofes - Two basic courses are offered: and we can help them do that.” fessor at Columbia College, will sional certification in youth min - Basic I: Biblical and Theological For more on the program, visit lead a Bible study webinar that will istries and children’s ministries. The Foundations for Ministry; and Basic www.echristianed.com. Financial aid options for UM students With tuition costs increasing and tuition financial aid package simply by federal and state grant programs graduating from high school with a 3.0 decreasing or stagnating, the out-of- grade point average. pocket expense for families is some - United Methodist Church members times painful. So how can you better attending United Methodist affiliated prepare to finance the cost of a college institutions such as SMC have an addi - education? tional resource for college funding. The Families cannot always rely on fed - United Methodist Leadership Scholars eral and state financial aid awarded Program, www.umls.umc.org, and the after completing the FAFSA (Free Dollars for Scholars Program partner Application for Federal Student Aid) to local church funds with matching insti - meet the cost of attendance. Financial tutional funds for scholarships ranging aid experts encourage students to apply from $2,000-$4,000. Both programs, early and often for as many private along with the Foundation Merit scholarships as they can that are offered Scholars Program and others, are spon - by community organizations, places of sored by the United Methodist Higher employment, banks, insurance compa - Education Foundation, nies, or retail stores. Many high school www.umhef.org. guidance offices can often give stu - The General Board of Higher dents inside information regarding pri - Education Ministry, www.gbhem.org, vate scholarships. sponsors scholarships, fellowships and For example, Spartanburg Methodist loans for both undergraduate and grad - College offers any S.C. student a full- uate United Methodist students. Subscribe to the Advocate! 888-678-6272 or [email protected] Page 12, February 2011 The South Carolina United Methodist Advocate Here am I, send me! Youth, skilled adults sought for 2011 Salkehatchie A Salkehatchie love story… Love at first ‘site’ By Patrick and Betsy McInerney a little and quickly found the girl. She was now brace-free, he In the summer of 1998, a was still a little gangly, but gangly guy and a girl with they were thrilled to be back braces accidentally held in touch. hands in a bucket of plaster. Messages quickly turned With stars in their eyes, into phone calls and within the two spent the next week weeks, the girl was on a finding any excuse to be together. flight to New York. It had been more Salkehatchie Summer Service brings together youth and adult volunteers from all But when the week of Salkehatchie than four years since last seeing each over the state in a servant ministry to repair the homes of needy families. (Photo was over, they both returned home other, but no time had passed by Matt Brodie) with heavy hearts. Living too far between them. By Jessica Connor “We are entertaining kids to death,” from each other to visit, the two The reunion ended all too soon Culp said. “Salkehatchie provides a grew closer through high school by and again they parted with heavy First-timers are often shocked by what framework where they can understand writing, instant messaging and call - hearts. But the separation was short they see: sagging shacks with crumbling the call of God: what is His will? What is ing each other. lived. roofs, peeling paint and no indoor my vocation going to be? Where should But when the boy left for college, Within a couple of months the girl plumbing. Broken floors, rotting wood, I serve?” they soon lost touch. returned to the city, this time with cracked windows. No air conditioning. He finds youth like to do something A couple of years later, to both of moving boxes and a new job wait - Maybe no electricity. constructive and tangible, to say, “I put their surprise, the two were reunited ing. Together at last, the boy and the This is where people live. the roof on that house.” In fact, he has at a mutual friend’s wedding, where girl were again inseparable. This is someone’s everyday existence. been told by college admissions person - they quickly realized the spark was The following summer, while In an instant, Salkehatchie “newbies” nel that on many college applications, still there. The boy returned to school driving to the beach, the boy stopped realize deep in their core that there is Salkehatchie is mentioned as the most with a phone number and a smile, the car and asked the girl to get out another world out there – a world where powerful experience in a student’s life. but soon after arriving, lost both in with him. On the other side of the Wii and laptops and shopping malls “This is a Christian setting where they the snow. street stood a house they both knew aren’t relevant, a world where basic sur - can find God,” Culp said. Again out of touch, they finished well, though the bucket of plaster vival is top priority. Tammy Fulmer, S.C. Conference school, moved and got jobs, but still was long since gone. Trembling, the Salkehatchie Summer Service brings Connectional Ministries staffer, has remained curious about the other. boy lowered to his knee and asked together youth and adult volunteers from worked with Salkehatchie for many The boy, who was now in New the girl to hold his hand once again. all over the state in a servant ministry to years and said most of the young people York, got back to his desk one day to Nearly 13 years since their story repair the homes of needy families. More who attend have no clue people can live find a Facebook account set up for first began, the boy and the girl are than 50 service camps dot the state, day in and day out without plumbing or him by a coworker. He poked around now Mr. and Mrs. extending into North Carolina and adequate flooring. abroad. Their goal is to unite “the least of Fulmer said Salkehatchie is a total these” with volunteers willing to spend a life-changing experience for volunteers. week armed with hammers, paint and “It is work – a lot of times, they’d caulk to reach out to these families (and rather do the beach or ski trips, but once one another) in Christian friendship. they go, they’re hooked. And then they “It is truly giving of themselves,” said go and go and go.” Reunited at the Rev. John Culp, who founded Clayton Sosebee, who attended his last, Patrick Salkehatchie Summer Service for the first Salkehatchie last year after he turned and Betsy S.C. Conference of the United Methodist 14, said he wants to go back as many McInerney Church in 1978 after ministering to years as he can. were married Lowcountry people living in poverty. last year, 12 “When you’re working on those peo - after they fell Now in its 33rd year, Salkehatchie ple’s houses, and they don’t have any - in love at registration enters full swing, as past par - thing, and you’re done and you see the Salkehatchie. ticipants sign up for favorite camps and smiles on their faces, it’s just awesome,” new participants feel the call to volunteer. he said. In addition to 14-year-olds, dents: the Ocean Front Camp (Edisto there is space available, people can regis - 14-year-olds this year’s target Salkehatchie organizers are seeking Beach). ter up until the week before the camp This year, Salkehatchie organizers are adults with labor skills who can help Third, Salkehatchie has expanded to starts. doing all they can to recruit the very youth and others less skilled. North Carolina, with a camp in Registration forms can be down - youngest volunteers – 14-year-olds. Huntersville, and the international trip to loaded now from www.salkehatchie.org Culp said 14 is a critical age: a stage New this year Central America has changed from and mailed in with a $215 check. in life when youth are developing a spiri - Salkehatchie 2011 brings a few Nicaragua to El Salvador. For those who cannot attend, tual consciousness of the world and deal - changes: First, the registration fee has Salkehatchie is accepting donations, both ing with social issues, possibly for the increased slightly – the first increase Register now monetary and supplies. first time. since 2006 – because of increases in Organizers encourage people to regis - Scholarships may also be available. As youth become more and more building materials, gas and other items. ter now for Salkehatchie. Registration is For more information, visit electronically and technologically orient - Next, organizers have established a first-come, first-served, and though there www.salkehatchie.org or call (888) 678- ed, reaching their hearts now is key. second camp exclusively for college stu - is a registration deadline of March 31, if 6272. The South Carolina United Methodist Advocate February 2011, Page 13

2011

Summer Service by the Rev. John Culp How did we repair the roof, the floor, or this house? When we experience Salkehatchie we see the Christ, the living God. In Theologically, we learn we are powerful people by the Grace of God. Scripture there are several parables – the parable of the lost son, the parable of Salkehatchie is volunteerism. Volunteerism is gaining a person’ heart to give it the lost coin and the parable of the lost sheep – about what is missing. Who is the away. Volunteerism is simple acts of mercy. ‘one’ that has become lost? What is lost in our lives? Have we ever not missed One of Salkehatchie devoted volunteers, Art Dexter said most of us if asked what was missing? We have to miss it to realize it. to write our biblical justification for participation in Salkehatchie would proba - During the Salkehatchie Camp a news reporter for a local televi - bly mention Matthew 25:35-41 – “I was hungry and you gave me food. I was sion station came to do the story about the youth and the homes we thirsty and you gave me water.” Salkehatchie uses these verses. “My house was were working on. We went down the dirt road to the old, wooden in despair and you rebuilt it. My roof leaked and you repaired it. I was depressed sharecropper house built in the early 1900s or earlier. The house had and alone and you brought me hope.” no indoor plumbing or water and a tin roof. As Salkehatchie people we go out as healers to the poor. But every year we Culp Two elderly women in their 80s lived here. The young reporter become aware that the healers need healing too. We all bring some heavy bag - experienced a culture shock because she had never seen anything gage with us. Hearing the stories of many lives tell about their broken, emotion - like this. She had missed this situation and missed how people have to live. The al homes, being abused emotionally and sexually, the death of friends because of questions she asked revealed her ignorance. She asked the elderly lady, “Where automobile accidents and the pain of divorce and alcoholism in families. Youth do you go to the bathroom?” The sweet lady responded, “We have a portable toi - will say to us, “I wish my dad would come with me”; “My best friend is in deep let in the back room.” The second question asked was, “Where do you take a trouble”; “You remind me of my father who died”; “My mother has cancer”; and shower?” The 80-year-old lady did not respond. There are people today who do “My parents abandoned me when I was three years old.” not know what some lives go through to survive. Salkehatchie frees and absorbs the pains, the hurts, the sins of the lives of our As the Scripture says, “I was blind, now I see.” I didn’t understand, now I society. We understand the crucifixion. No need exists that God has not provid - understand. I was insensitive, now I care. I was lost, now I am found. ed the resources. Salkehatchie meets the need with unconditional love. We share Salkehatchie participants experience these teachable moments. They find the together. We share this great ministry with thousands of youth and adults. We missing that brings wholeness to their lives. Salkehatchie is saying “yes” to life. also share the spiritual growth that has taken place. Salkehatchie is asking people to have a heart again. Salkehatchie is ministry to We are better people because of this encounter with Christ and “the least of the needy, the elderly, the blind, the handicapped and the forsaken people of our these.” The human spirit becomes the Spirit of Christ. Turning weakness into society. The ones whom Christ called, “the least of these.” strength, facing chaos with creativity, overcoming sickness with healing. No Salkehatchie sees the dignity and the worth of life. Salkehatchie is a caring fancy, technical equipment – just a hammer and a paintbrush combined with church in mission. power and love. No books or computers; just hard work by sweat and faith. Salkehatchie is a communication of the heart. A parishioner once told his Theologically we learn we are powerful people by the Grace of God. With our preacher, “Look, preacher, I ain’t talking about a bunch of ideas or some fancy lives we are creating space for God to be in the world. notions you pick up in a book. I’m talking about a God that’s real enough to We hear people say, “I don’t have the ability.” God is not concerned with our touch you.” ability. God just wants us to be available. Salkehatchie gives us permission to Too many Christians reach out, but do not touch anything. Salkehatchie touch - love, to take on the pain, the agony and the fragile stories of real people. A part es lives. Salkehatchie is intimacy. Too often we hear don’t get too close God; of us dies yet it was Christ that died for all pain and sin and overcame them in don’t actually touch me. Salkehatchie is a faith ministry in action! The power of love. a handful of youth and adults who go and do it and then wonder how they did it. We are a faith ministry. 2011 Camps

May 14 Hugo (Young Adults-Mount Pleasant) June 18 Penn Center Steven Brown July 9 Upstate (Greenville) Lloyd E. White Brad & Megan Gray June 18 Shelby (Shelby, NC) Tammy Duncan July 16 Black Swamp (Hampton) Mimbee Baker May 21 Ocean Front (Edisto Beach) NEW Scott Efird June 18 Summerville Marty Gunter July 16 Clover Evelyn Cameron June 4 Laurens Emil Finley June 18 Sumter Fran Marshall July 16 Huntersville (North Carolina) Jerry Kita June 11 Baker Creek (McCormick) Kellie Owans June 18 Swamp Fox (Marion County) Henry Altman July 16 Moncks Corner Joe Roberts June 11 Blythewood John Covert June 18 Union Don Brown July 16 Newberry Steve & Joyce Barrow June 11 Chester Dan Bilderback June 18 Wateree (Camden) Richard Hagins July 16 Rock Hill Chuck & Tammy Hailey June 11 Durham/McMannen Katie Wagstaff June 18 West Metro (Cayce) Mike Henderson July 16 Santee (Clarendon County) Joe Long June 11 Edisto Fork Hayes Gainey June 25 Bishopville Tommy Wilkes July 23 Andrews Flynn Morris June 11 Horry (Loris) Sammy & Susan Johnson June 25 Gaskin Springs (Douglas Ga) Chris Calhoun July 23 Columbia Shaun Zarandi June 11 J.E.T (Johnston-Edgefield-Trenton) June 25 Greenwood Kathy Kelly July 23 Lake Murray NEW Bill Brown John Timmerman June 25 Lake City Kent Daniels July 23 Shaw (Dalzell) Wes Conner June 11 Lancaster David Hagins June 25 Piedmont Jo Hood June 10 Rio de Janeiro - Brazil Lee and Don McMillan June 11 Oconee (Seneca) Catherine Wylie July 2 Foothills (Pendleton) Wes Conner July 30 El Salvador Kathy and Ivey Hart June 11 Rivertown (Conway) Jeff Davis July 2 Pee Dee (Bennettsville) Neil Flowers June 11 Sand River (Aiken) Bobby L. Coker July 9 Bamberg Charlie Bellamy June 11 Spartanburg Chris Snelgrove July 9 Circuit Rider (Johnsonville) Richard Jayroe June 11 Winyah Bay (Georgetown) Russell Jeffcoat July 9 Fairfield Frank Gravely June 18 Catawba (Fort Mill) Tony Carnes July 9 Harvest (Dillon) Kathy Hart June 18 New Hope (Chesterfield) NEW Kathy Hart July 9 Lexington County Bob Kirby Register today! www.salkehatchie.org (888) 678-6272 Page 14, February 2011 The South Carolina United Methodist Advocate Other News Eligible clergy delegates posted online In preparation for the election of removed. ble%20for%20Election.pdf “Remember that this is not a list General Conference and An updated list has now been The Rev. Timothy J. Rogers, coor - of those eligible to vote,” Rogers Jurisdictional Conference delegates posted on the conference website. dinator of clergy services and Annual said. “This is a list of those eligible at South Carolina’s 2011 Annual This list has been edited, and the Conference secretary, asks that all to be elected and who have not asked Conference, a list of clergy eligible names of 201 eligible clergy have clergy review the list for accuracy. to have their names removed from to be elected has been posted on the been removed at their request. Clergy members are asked to make the list.” conference website, www.umcsc.org. A total of 623 names remain on certain their name remains on the list Those who wish to have their Earlier, a letter was sent out the list as of Jan. 6. (if they so desire) or that their name name removed should notify the explaining that every eligible clergy The list can be found at has been properly removed (if you office of the Conference Secretary in would be listed on the ballot unless www.umcsc.org/AnnualConferences/ do not want it included on the bal - writing (preferably using the notice they requested to have their name 2011/pdf/Full%20Members%20Eligi lot). card provided earlier).

Anderson School of Theology SEJ Clergy Women’s event April 4-7 for Laypersons marks 50 years Bishops Mary Virginia Taylor, Church and Society, and the Rev. Charlene Kammerer and Hope Angela Cross Hardy, a pastor in John Dominic Crossan and There is no charge, and all are Morgan Ward will serve as the Holston Conference. Marcus J. Borg will headline the welcome. preachers/plenary leaders for the Dr. Bridgette Young, General Anderson School of Theology for The Rev. Mike Vandiver, retired Southeastern Jurisdiction’s Clergy Board of Higher Education, will Laypersons 50th Anniversary United Methodist pastor, said the Women’s Consultation, set for lead an inclusiveness plenary. Lectures this month. event is not a “brick and mortar” April 4-7. Other leaders will be volunteer - Set for Friday, Feb. 18, at 7:30 school but rather a gathering of per - Held at the Emory Conference ing at various workshops. p.m., and Saturday, Feb. 19, at 8:30 sons who wish to explore the mean - Center in Atlanta, other preachers For more information, includ - and10:30 a.m., the “Parables By and ing of their faith. will include the Rev. Cynthia ing the full program, visit About Jesus” lectures will be held at To register, visit www.astlonline. Abrams of the General Board of www.umcsc.org. Boulevard Baptist Church, Anderson. org.

ALL BROTHERS AND SISTERS – Members of the West Metro Did you know that you Hispanic Ministry, plus other can make a gift and United Methodists in support of receive guaranteed immigration reform, marched for income for life? equal justice Monday, Jan. 17, at the King Day at the Dome in Columbia. “We marched in sup - That’s exactly what dozens port of equal justice for all, and it of people have done since 1982 was a wonderful time to worship, through Charitable Gift pray and march together for one Annuities with the South cause,” said the Rev. Emily Carolina United Methodist Sutton, West Metro pastor. Foundation. Pictured here, several immi - grants’ rights supporters pro - Current One-Life Rates claim their views. Many other For Selected Ages UMCs across South Carolina honored the legacy of Dr. Martin Age 60 5.2% Luther King Jr. through events Age 65 5.5% and services. (Submitted photo) Age 70 5.8% Age 75 6.4% Age 80 7.2% Rekindling the Flame event set for Lake Junaluska Age 85 8.1% LAKE JUNALUSKA, N.C. – tion, information and fellowship UMC in Memphis, Tenn.; and Two-Life Rates Available Experience Jesus Christ and grow through great preaching, Bible more. Upon Request in the Christian Faith at study, inspiring singing and a spe - Music will be provided by the “Rekindling the Flame of American cial volunteer project. Lake Junaluska Singers under the Gift Annuities with the Methodism” June 30 to July 3 at Leadership includes Bishop direction of Dr. Melodie Galloway. Foundation provide guaranteed Lake Junaluska Conference and James Swanson of the Holston Dr. Glenn Draper, the Lake lifetime income at an attractive Retreat Center. Conference of the United Methodist Junaluska Director of Music rate, immediate tax benefits for This family experience will focus Church; Dr. John Ed Mathison, Emeritus, will make a special your charitable contribution, and a way to leave a legacy for on the theme of “Christ’s Mission Pastor Emeritus of Frazier UMC in appearance during the conference the future. is Ours.” Montgomery, Ala.; Dr. James to lead congregational singing. Adults, college students, youth Buskirk, Pastor Emeritus of First For more information, visit ------and children are invited to join UMC in Tulsa, Okla.; Dr. Bill www.lakejunaluska.com/rekindling- The South Carolina together for a weekend of inspira - Bouknight, former Pastor of Grace the-flame or call 828-454-6656. United Methodist Foundation, Inc. P. O. Box 5087 Columbia, SC 29250-5087 Appointment Changes Send me information about a Charitable Gift Annuity with Bishop Mary Virginia Taylor has Effective Dec. 1, 2010: Charleston District: Johns Island the Foundation. announced the following changes in Walterboro District: St. George – Parish, Associate – Tony Richardson Name ______appointments: Donald O. Clendaniel II (RSY) (SY) Address ______Effective Nov. 21, 2010: Effective Dec. 19, 2010: Rock Hill Effective Feb. 1, 2011: Hartsville City ______Orangeburg District: Mount Carmel District: Bethesda, Great Falls – TBS District: Bethel, Oswego – Curtis State ______Zip ______– George Manigo (RSY) Effective Dec. 31, 2010: Wells (FE) The South Carolina United Methodist Advocate February 2011, Page 15 Other News Article on Bamberg County UM church wins award An article about cious dedication of five families town that no longer exists, and is category. a historic United struggling to keep a small rural served by an 80-year-old minister Rogers, a native of Lexington, Methodist church church open. Established in1832, and his wife who serve an old-fash - received her journalism degree from near Olar has been Mizpah survived Sherman’s burning ioned circuit of three small United the University of South Carolina in honored with a but nearly succumbed to termites a Methodist churches, I knew I had a 1983. She’s worked at WSAV-TV prestigious jour - century later. Mizpah’s handful of story for the ages.” and The Savannah News-Press in nalism award. regular members – all senior citi - The article includes comments Savannah, The Sun News in Myrtle “The Tie That zens – successfully raised $500,000 from members Bill Craven of Beach and The Columbia Record. Rogers Binds,” which to restore its deteriorating structure. Waynesboro, Ga., Clyde Kearse of Her articles have appeared in The chronicles the history and dedicated “I grew up in a small country Olar, the Rev. Ed Stiltz and his Chicago Tribune and various travel congregation of Mizpah Church at church much like Mizpah, so I rec - wife, Wynette, of Norway, and publications. With Tim Driggers she Buford’s Bridge, won second place ognized immediately what a univer - Bamberg County historian Betty is co-author of “Stop Where the in the Green Eyeshade Awards, sal story it presented, with its small, Jane Miller. Parking Lot’s Full,” a guidebook to given by the Society of Professional steadfast congregation,” Rogers The Green Eyeshade Award hon - South Carolina’s most popular Journalists. Veteran South Carolina said. “At the same time, I saw how ors the best in professional journal - restaurants. writer-editor Aïda Rogers wrote the unique the church was, because of ism in print, photography, televi - Rogers is visitor and information article for Sandlapper, The its unusual history and how the con - sion, radio and online categories in director for the Greater Lexington Magazine of South Carolina. It gregation was able to raise such an 11 southeastern states. The awards Chamber and Visitors Center. She appeared in the winter 2009-10 impressive amount of money to have been given for 60 years. “The grew up at Mount Horeb UMC in issue. restore it. When you include the Tie That Binds” was recognized for Lexington and is a member of The article describes the tena - reality that Mizpah survives in a feature writing in the print non-daily Washington Street UMC, Columbia.

To Your Health

By the Rev. Sandra King want to buy the ones that contain the word It is possible to buy white whole wheat bread OK, you made that New Year’s resolution to “whole” before the grains listed in the ingredient that is made with albino wheat flour rather than eat better and you have stuck with it (or not). list. the usual red wheat, so if your kids don’t like You know the importance of eating more grains The confusion comes when a product (like the look of brown whole wheat bread, then you to maintain your blood sugar and help you lose bread) says it is made with 100 percent wheat have a healthy option. weight, and that at least one half of the grains flour. Just because it is made with 100 percent In addition to whole wheat, there are other you eat every day should be whole grains. wheat doesn’t mean it is made with whole whole grains that are readily available to vary But you have some questions. Is whole wheat wheat. Many 100 percent wheat products are your diet and tempt your taste buds. Some of the the same thing as whole grain? What about made with refined wheat flour, which means that more common ones are oatmeal, whole corn - white whole wheat bread – is that even possible? the bran and endosperm have been removed and meal, popcorn, buckwheat, bulgar, wild rice and It can be confusing, but not impossible to with them, many of the health benefits. brown rice. understand. Whole grain is the seed of a grain or Those labeled multi-grain are generally not If one of these grains is the first ingredient in grass, like a kernel of corn or wheat. It is made whole wheat products, and not all brown breads your food choice, then you can be sure that you up of the nutrient-containing germ, the are made with whole wheat. Some have are getting a whole grain product. endosperm where the vitamins and minerals are molasses added, which provides the darker color Just remember the rule – “make half of your stored, and the outer covering (also known as without the benefit of whole wheat. grain intake whole.” Happy eating! the bran) which provides fiber. Whole grains are Look for a whole grain as the first ingredient naturally low in fat and a good source of com - in bread to insure that you are getting a true King serves as minister at Leesville United plex carbohydrates. whole grain product. If white bread claims to be Methodist Church in Leesville. She is a regis - The important thing to remember is that when a wheat product, check the ingredient list for the tered nurse with a master’s degree in health you are looking for whole grain products, you words “whole wheat.” nursing. Wesley Commons recognizes employees for service GREENWOOD – Twenty-eight of individuals who work well as a Wesley Commons employees were team while caring for others,” said honored for their years of service on David Buckshorn, president/CEO. Jan. 6 during a special dinner. This “Our employees impact many, many year’s group represents a total of lives in very special ways including 285 years of service to the local residents, fellow staff and families.” retirement community. During the service awards, each Wesley Commons is a master- employee being honored was recog - planned United Methodist retire - nized with a public expression of ment home. appreciation from their supervisor, Among those honored were and each also received a gift that Patricia Irvin and Judy Burton who they selected prior to the event. Twenty-eight Wesley Commons employees who were recognized for their years achieved 30 years of service to of service to the organization. Pictured in front from left are Melissa Brown (five Wesley Commons. Special recogni - years), Irene Turner (10), Kim Holmes (10), Barbara Lockhart (10), Joann Wright tion was given to two employees: Advertise in (retiree) and Carrie Mathis (five); and in back from left, Lew Morgan (five), Joann Wright, who retired last sum - Richard Jones (five), Danny Hardy (20), Mike Turner (five), Roger Waldrop (15), mer with 32 years of service in Jerry Morton (five), Will Young (15), Nelson Gilchrist (10), Robert Young (15) and the Advocate George Richardson (five). Those recognized but not pictured were: Emma housekeeping, and Marilyn Eaton, Cunningham (five), Grant Reagin (five), Tammy Grant (five), Sharon White (five), who is retiring this month after 20 Ardella Cruz (five), Janice Smith (five), Mary Ann Waldrup (five), Chip Davenport years of service in marketing. IT WORKS. (five), Tony Hackett (five), Melissa Johnson (10), Marilyn Eaton (20 and Retiree), “Wesley Commons is very fortu - Patricia Irvin (30) and Judy Burton (30). nate to have such a dedicated group [email protected] Page 16, February 2011 The South Carolina United Methodist Advocate District & Local News Bennettsville-Cheraw Area Cooperative Ministries to celebrate anniversary With a theme of “Building Kingdom,” facilitated by Marian Stronger Congregations through David, literacy coordinator, Shared Ministries,” the Marlboro County. Bennettsville-Cheraw Area 12 p.m. – Luncheon with keynote Cooperative Ministries will cele - speaker the Rev. Stephen Love, for - brate its 44th anniversary Feb. 18- mer BCACM director and pastor of 19. the St. Thomas Charge, Huger The BCACM is a specialized 1 p.m. – Dedication of the ministry of the S.C. Conference of BCACM Outreach Center by the United Methodist Church. Marion District Superintendent the Celebration events include: Rev. Richard Knight CHRISTMAS GIFT – The Chancel Choir of First UMC, Conway, presented Feb. 18 1:30 p.m. – Closing worship Camille Saint-Saens’ “Christmas Oratorio” on Dec. 12 as part of the church’s 6 p.m. – Open-mike Youth for service with Knight serving as the 2010-2011 concert series. The choir (pictured above) was accompanied by Christ Celebration, BCACM messenger of God’s word and the organ and members of the Long Bay Symphony with soloists Christina Outreach Center celebrant for the Lord’s Supper. Howell of Atlanta, soprano; Meghan Goldfinch of Columbia, soprano; Meghan Neff of Myrtle Beach, alto; Caleb Jernigan of Coastal Carolina University, 7 p.m. – Spirit-filled evening 6 p.m. – BCACM annual banquet tenor; and John Callison of Columbia, baritone. First UMC and Long Bay worship service led by the Rev. at the EOC Center in Cheraw Symphony presented free Advent concerts at noon on Wednesdays during Telley Gadson and Aaron’s Army of Advent at First’s historic Hut Chapel at the corner of Main and Fifth. Amy St. Mark United Methodist Church, Organizers said they hope the Tully, flute, and Jessica Miller, oboe, performed Dec. 8. The concerts were Sumter anniversary will serve as a catalyst offered by the church as a respite from the rush of the season and to help people focus on the coming of our Lord. for strengthening member churches Feb. 19 and enlightening the community as 9 a.m. – Opening plenary session to the holistic ministry approach of 10 a.m. to noon – Workshops the BCACM. Fundraising push to help with “Lay and Clergy Partnering for The BCACM is located at 256 Effective Ministry” facilitated by Tatum Hwy., Tatum. All are wel - Wesley UMC hunger relief effort S.C. Conference Congregationalist come. For nearly 10 years, Wesley UMC, $8,000 to do so. Specialist Ken Nelson and “Using For more information, call 843- Columbia, has spent the first The Rev. John Culp, pastor of Our Spiritual Gifts for the 523-6550. Saturday of every month feeding the Virginia Wingard UMC in Columbia, city’s homeless and hungry. said his church has committed to Called Manna Station, the hunger raise the $8,000 Wesley UMC needs. relief effort started thanks to the Culp is hoping to raise the money Canada family’s vision and hard through United Methodist Men, but work. And today, upwards 150 peo - he said his church will help Wesley ple flock to the church every month UMC regardless. for a warm meal, devotionals and Rhue said that anyone who wants prayer. to donate to Wesley’s stove fund can But for years, volunteers have send a check to Wesley UMC, 1725 cooked the food on a regular electric Gervais St., Columbia, SC 29201 stove. The church is now seeking a with “Manna Station” in the memo commercial stove with a hood, plus line. funds to run a gas line and be in full Rhue said volunteers to help with compliance with city code. Manna Station are always welcome. “We want to make it more effec - Simply show up at the church around tive and safe,” Cassius Rhue, of 10:30 a.m. the first Saturday of each Wesley UMC. month to help set up, or stop by at But estimated costs are about 12:30 p.m. to help clean up.

CHOICES, CHOICES – Seeking community, life change and a closer relation - ship with God, members of Mount Horeb UMC, Lexington, examine their spring spiritual growth options. Ranging from marriage and parenting, to bibli - cal financial principles, to traditional Scripture studies, participants choose between small groups and Sunday morning groups. Central to Mount Horeb’s vision is connecting people to people and connecting people to God. (Photo by Bethany Rainwater) Subscribe to the Advocate ! Just $15/year The South Carolina United Methodist Advocate February 2011, Page 17 District & Local News Anderson District More than 300 coats were donat - ed along with numerous sweaters and sweatshirts plus assorted hats, scarves, and mittens at First UMC, Easley , as part of its New Year’s Day celebration. The church served 41 needy people and gave away many coats, sweaters, scarves, and TAKING THE PLUNGE – A jars of soup! All remaining clothing few weather-hardy mem - was donated to United Christian bers of Waters Edge United Methodist Church, Ministries. Beaufort, took the “pelican Summer camp registration plunge” to kick off the new opened Jan. 15 for Asbury Hills, year Jan. 1. They partici - Cleveland . All camp information is pated in Hunting Island available at www.asburyhills.org. State Park’s third annual Pelican Plunge event, jumping into the frigid Hartsville District waters to help raise money The churches of the for the park. Pictured in Lamar rear, David Mandell; middle Circuit (Zion, Newman Swamp from left, Doug Thompson, and Elim) provided 231 plates to Linda Thompson and Jose persons on Christmas Day. Vergara; and front, Lily Members of the congregations Vergara. secured names of needy/lonely per - sons and 26 turkeys and all the tra - Laity invites the church families in the event on April 10, 2011. Each 40 While Keeping People Over 60,” ditional trimmings were delivered the Marion District and surrounding event will begin at 5 p.m. If you Feb. 26. For more information, con - until 4 p.m. that day. The leftover districts to a Pre-Easter Service of have questions call David Lovell- tact the Rev. Leonard Huggins Jr. at food was distributed to the Billie Scripture, song and media reliving District Lay Leader at 843-362- 803-829-1566. Hardee Boy’s Home in Darlington. the last days of Jesus’ life, followed 2389 or e-mail him at lwdlovell@ The churches also purchased two by communion and light refresh - gmail.com. Spartanburg District beds for a local homeless shelter. ments. The services will be held in Congratulations and best wishes The Men’s Club and each church clusters with St. Stephens UMC Orangeburg District to the Rev. Gary Peterson on his contributed funds to meet the need. (Dillon) hosting the event on March Covenant UMC, Bowman , will marriage Nov. 27 to Phyllis Ann 27, 2011; Macedonia UMC host a one-day practical solution Trotter. Marion District (Mullins) hosting the event on April seminar with Eddie Hammett, co- Peterson serves Bogansville The Marion District Board of 3, 2011: and Surfside UMC hosting author of “Reaching People Under UMC, Jonesville. Emmanuel UMC celebrates 140th anniversary CAMDEN – “Making Disciples of for all of her strength. She has inner Jesus Christ for 140 years” was the joy and peace that comes across. theme of the activities Emmanuel Esseline Cook, as Reader No. 4: Very “Making Disciples of United Methodist Church, Camden, up-to-date, probably has money, con - Jesus Christ for 140 planned the weekend of Nov. 6-7. cerned about what people think of her. years” was the theme of The weekend of celebration began Other persons who appeared in the the activities Emmanuel United Methodist with a dinner theater, held at 4 p.m. presentation of “The 23rd Psalm” Church, Camden, Nov. 6 in the fellowship hall of the were Ollie Thompson-Brisbane, as the planned during the church before a sell-out audience. The leader: This lady is very adept and weekend of Nov. 6-7. presentation was “The 23rd Psalm,” a knowledgeable. It is clear that she series of biblical readings, written by quite often does this sort of thing and Andrea Kent-Jones and directed by could do it with her eyes closed. The Clifton Harryton Anderson. Rev. Constance “Connie” Barnes, The story line of the presentation Emmanuel pastor, played the narrator: was about four readers who were business-like, straightforward. engaged in idle chatter, nervously The weekend concluded with a waiting for the guest leader to arrive. worship service at 11:15 a.m. Nov. 7 It was obvious that those people were in the church sanctuary. It was open to not sure of what was going to happen the public and well attended. to them or how they would respond to “140 Years Later – Are We this situation. Stronger, Wiser and Better?” was the The setting was a bare stage with title of the sermon, delivered by five chairs in a semi-circle. The read - Barnes. Holy Communion was ers were Ransom Smith, as Reader offered, served and led by Barnes. No. 1: Materialistic and knows it all. A special feature of this worship He considers himself a Christian, but service was the “Honoring Our thinks more of himself than of anyone Seniors,” recognizing members of the else. Eugene Bolden was Reader No. church aged 70 years and older who 2: No self-confidence. Afraid of peo - shared with the audience their favorite ple. Afraid of change. Bible verses and words of wisdom Bertha Marshall was Reader No. 3: along with changes in the church and A person with deep, real problems. community during their lives. She has, however, a very real, soundly Delores Eichelberger served as wor - based faith. Although she is now in a ship leader, and the Combined Choir deep struggle, she still looks to God sang two uplifting selections. Page 18, February 2011 The South Carolina United Methodist Advocate Upcoming Events

February Holmes, six-time Pulitzer Prize hold its annual Black History March 27 – Pre-Easter Service, St. nominee and USC Journalism pro - Celebration at 3 p.m. Rep. Bakari Stephens UMC, Dillon, 5 p.m. For (Black History Month) fessor, will be the speaker. For Sellers will be the speaker. more information: 843-362-2389 or Feb. 1-3 – Older Adult Spiritual Life information, visit www.interfaith - lwdlovell@ gmail.com. Retreat, Springmaid Beach Resort, communityservices.org. March Myrtle Beach. Call 803-786-9486, (Women’s History Month) April ext. 311, for details. Feb. 21 – Presidents Day March 4-5 – African-American Women April 3 – Pre-Easter Service, Macedonia Feb. 4-5 – Winter Workshop, sponsored Feb. 22 – Washington’s Birthday and AIDS Conference, Columbia. UMC, Mullins, 5 p.m., sponsored by the Fellowship of United by the Marion District Board of Methodists in Music and Worship Feb. 23 – UMW Legislative Day, March 4-6 – Minister/Spouse Retreat, Laity. For more information: 843- Arts, Shandon UMC. For informa - Epworth Children’s Home, 8:30 Palm Key. 362-2389 or [email protected]. tion: www.scfellowship.com. a.m. March 6 – Women in the Pulpit Sunday April 3 – One Great Hour of Sharing Feb. 25-27 – Annual Hands and Feet Feb. 5 – Greenville District Vacation (COSROW) (offering) Youth Service Weekend, Asbury Bible School Training, Mauldin Hills. To register, call 843-458- UMC. March 9 – Ash Wednesday April 4-6 – African-American Clergy 2071. Leadership Retreat, Lake Feb. 6 – Gold Cross Sunday (offering) March 11-12 – A Forum for Preaching, Junaluska, N.C. Feb. 26 – Leadership Day of Training, with Dr. William B. McClain, will be Feb. 11 – Lincoln’s Birthday sponsored by Rock Hill District held at Emmanuel UMC, Sumter. April 4-7 – 2011 Southeastern Youth, will be held at First UMC, Cost is $55 and includes meals Jurisdiction Clergy Women’s Feb. 11-13 – Revolution youth event, Clover, from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and registration. For information, Consultation, Emory Conference Columbia Metropolitan Convention Titled “Imagine,” the day will call Willie Lawson at 843-453-3691 Center, Atlanta. Bishop Mary Center. For information, visit empower youth to leadership in or 803-494-5700. Virginia Taylor will be one of the www.umcsc.org. their local churches. For informa - preacher/plenary leaders. For infor - tion, contact Angela Johnson at March 13 – Girl Scout Sunday (alternate mation: www.umcsc.org. Feb. 11-13 – UMM Spiritual Retreat, [email protected] or 864- Scouting Ministries Sunday) Radisson Hotel and Conference 386-0358. April 10 – Pre-Easter Service, Surfside Center, Columbia. To register, go to March 13 – Daylight Saving Time begins UMC, Surfside Beach, 5 p.m. For www.ummsc.org. Feb. 26 – “Reaching People Under 40 more information: 843-362-2389 or while Keeping People Over 60” March 18-20 – Fourth Annual Ebony [email protected]. Feb. 13 – Boy Scout Sunday (Scouting practical solution seminar, Youth Christian Vocation Ministries Sunday) Covenant UMC, Bowman, 8:30 Exploration Retreat, Lake April 16 – Gala/Reunion Celebration for a.m. For registration information: Junaluska, N.C. the Columbia Bethlehem Feb. 18 – Interfaith Forum on Spiritual 803-829-1 566. Community Center, 6-9 p.m. For Journeys, Incarnation Lutheran March 20 – United Methodist Camps more information, visit www.umcsc. Church, Columbia, 6 p.m. Cecile Feb. 27 – Trinity UMC, Bennettsville, will and Retreats Sunday org.

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A variety of Lent/Easter resources are available The second addition to the WorshipNow imprint, 5. The Torture and Humiliation of the King (9:06) from the Resource Center: this 20-minute musical is easy to learn, easy to sing 6. The Crucifixion (12:54) and allows your choir the flexibility to sing in unison or 7. Christ the Victor (11:10) Hallelujah, What A Savior! (SBK253) two parts. Songs include “The Lord Our God is Bonus: What If Judas Had Lived? (4:56) Author: Gambill, Risen/Christ is Risen”; “Once Again”; “When I Survey Luke/Black, Lee. the Wondrous Cross”; “Look to the Lamb”; and “Risen Ashes To Glory: An Easter Devotional (DVD563) Children’s choirs to Reign.” Author: Vision Video. 47 mini-documentaries, 3 to 4 everywhere will Adult/20 min./Easy/Unison/2-part. (Word Music) min. each. enjoy presenting this Listening CD available. This resource features a daily devotional for every high-energy, easy-to- day in Lent. From the remembrance of Ash learn, easy-to-sing, The King Is Coming (SBK252) Wednesday to the celebration of Resurrection Sunday, musical celebration Author: Mauldin, Russell. each day contains a brief reflection on a treasured of the Easter story, Arranged by Russell Mauldin in the ready-to-sing song, poem, tradition, Scripture, character of the created by Luke style, this 35-minute Easter musical is filled with clas - Passion story or work of art. Includes PDF scripts and Gambill and Lee sic songs and hymns. Songs include “Rejoice, the daily Bible readings. Black. Lord Is King Medley” (The King Is Coming/Christ With its dynamic Arose/Rejoice, the Lord Is King/Crown Him with Many The Easter Experience (DVD577=) praise and worship Crowns); “His Triumphant Entrance Medley” (The King Author: City on a setting, along with simple narration and fun-to-learn Is Coming/He Is Exalted/Praise Him! Praise Him!); Hill/Thomas Nelson. Six ses - songs, “Hallelujah, What a Savior!” provides a power - “The Darkest Night Underscore”; “The Day He Wore sions, 20 min. each/leader’s ful platform from which your kids choir can present the My Crown;” “Written in Red”; “The Living One”; “Jesus, guide/participant’s Gospel – the amazing story of salvation and forgive - We Crown You with Praise”; and “The King Is guide/2009. ness made available to each one of us through the Coming/Amazing Grace.” What if what happened love and sacrifice of our Savior King. Adult/35 min./Easy/SATB. (Brentwood-Benson) then changes everything The story and songs are enhanced with exceptional Listening CD available. now? “The Easter production notes and movements by Rhonda Frazier. Experience” is a spiritual Songs include “Hallelujah, What a Savior!”; “Mighty to 24 Hours That Changed The World (DVD545=) experience that has the Save”; “You Are My King/Amazing Love”; and “My Author: Hamilton, Adam. Seven sessions with power to change every Savior Lives.” bonus session, 5-13 minutes/leader guide/2009. member in a small group. Children/17 min./Easy/Unison. (Brentwood- This is a video journey through the last day of Each episode brings the pas - Benson). Listening CD and accompaniment CD avail - Christ’s life based on Adam Hamilton’s powerful book, sion and resurrection of Jesus to life through dramatic able. “24 Hours That Changed the World.” In this DVD, we storytelling and challenging teaching and explores a travel to the Holy Land with Hamilton to visit the sites universal theme that is relevant to our lives all year. Living Lord Risen King (SBK257) where those earth-shaking events took place. We walk 1. My Life Has a Purpose Author: Fettke, Tom/Sterling, Robert/Williamson, where Jesus walked and see what he may have seen, 2. My Life Can Change Dave/Kingsmore, Richard. along the road that led to the pain and triumph of the 3. My Pain Is Understood Through accessible arrangements by Richard cross. 4. My Life Has a Plan Kingsmore and thoughtful narration by Nan Allen, the The leader guide features two format options (60- 5. I Have the Promise of Eternal Life choir leads listeners to offer thanks to our sacrificial minute and 90-minute) and suggestions of ways to 6. I Have a Hope That Never Dies Lord, who bore the cross that we might be made right - make the study a meaningful experience for any eous. group. The S.C. Conference Resource Center is your con - From the rousing “The Lord Our God is Risen” to 1. The Last Supper (11:25) nection to VHS tapes, DVDs and seasonal musicals. the tenderly arranged “When I Survey the Wondrous 2. The Garden of Gethsemane (6:57) We are here to serve your church family. To reserve Cross,” this thoughtful musical will bless choir and con - 3. Condemned by the Righteous (9:15) resources, call 888-678-6272 or visit gregation. 4. Jesus, Barabbas and Pilate (9:10) www.umcsc.org/resourcecenter/index.html.

THE AMERICAN METHODISTS: Methodism Revisited ORGANIZATION, DIVISION, REUNION By By the Rev. J. Robert Huggins through the centuries. and when Charles was “all off the Roger M. Gramling Charles Wesley was much differ - hook,” as John once wrote, one Answer to last month’s trivia: As ent from his older brother John in might as well “blow against the Describes major developments in the history of American a young middle school lad, John that he was impetuous, short-tem - wind as try to reason with him.” Methodism pered and given to outbursts of feel - Charles also had a meekness and Wesley said, “I read the Scriptures, from the 1760’s through 1939 and said my prayers night and ing. To quote an unnamed editor of unfeigned humility about himself morning, I hoped to be saved the 1816 edition of his sermons, that was remarkable. Noted by his An excellent resource by...... ” What three things did young “Charles was full of sensibility and sermon editor, “His most striking for Sunday School Class Studies, John Wesley say? 1) Not being as fire; his patience and meekness excellence was humility; it extended Adult Membership Classes, or bad as other people; 2) Having still were neither the effect of tempera - to his talents as well as virtues; he as a handout for new members of a kindness for religion; and 3) ment or reason, but of divine princi - not only acknowledged and pointed The United Methodist Church Reading my Bible, going to church ples.” out but delighted in superiority of and saying my prayers. Charles was high-spirited and another, and if there ever was a Sixty Pages, Softbound emotional, and his hymns give human being who disliked power, $2.50 Each Includes Postage Charles Wesley, the 18th child of ample witness to the fact that he avoided pre-eminence, and shrunk Make Checks Payable To could hit the whole scale of human from praise, it was Charles Wesley.” Samuel and Susanna Wesley, was And Send Orders To The Author, born prematurely on Dec. 18, 1707. emotions. A friend from his Oxford The Reverend Roger M. Gramling “He appeared dead rather than days writes of Charles: “A man This month’s trivia: As young 155 Hunters Blind Drive alive when he was born. He did not made of friendship; who, by his students at Oxford, Charles along Columbia, SC 29212-1624 cry, nor open his eyes, and was kept cheerfulness and vivacity, would with the other “Holy Club” or wrapt up in soft wool until the time refresh his friend’s heart; with atten - “Oxford Methodist” members was when he should have been born tive consideration, would enter into encouraged to read devotional clas - according to usual course of nature, and settle all his concerns; so far as sics. What classic did Charles read and then he opened his eyes and he was able, would do anything for that taught him the importance of Subscribe cried” – this quote by his physician him, great or small; and by a habit inward religion, causing Charles to and first biographer, Dr. John of openness and freedom, leave no say, “The nature and extent of to the Whitehead. room for misunderstanding.” inward religion, the religion of the What an inauspicious beginning Yet according to his brother John, heart, now appeared to me in a Advocate! for one that would subsequently with Charles’s personal warmth stronger light than it ever had done $15/year. Call 888-678-6272 or e-mail [email protected] today give voice to so many people down there also came some strong heat, before?” Page 20, February 2011 The South Carolina United Methodist Advocate Global News in Brief News around the globe courtesy Church, will hold its 44th annual of the United Methodist News meeting on Feb. 23-26 at the New Service: Orleans Marriott. The gathering will Ministry of the Month: include preparations for the 2012 Haiti recovery: progress slow General Conference, the denomina - Coastal Samaritan Counseling Center but measurable tion’s lawmaking body and a tour of Editor’s note: The following is a new monthly series in the Advocate to NEW YORK – A year after a mas - the former site of Gulfside help people better understand the S.C. Conference’s Advance Special sive earthquake shattered Haiti’s Assembly and Retreat Center, which Ministries. Advance Special Ministries receive conference dollars, plus infrastructure and the lives of its cit - was destroyed by Hurricane they depend on additional donations from United Methodists and others to izens, the commitment to rebuilding Katrina. operate. The Advocate will feature one “Advance Special” each month. the Caribbean nation remains. However, November’s deadly Carcaño speaks at memorial What does the ministry do? Coastal Samaritan Counseling Center pro - cholera outbreak and brush with Mass for Tucson vides counseling, pastoral psychotherapy, education and consultation to Hurricane Tomas, December’s ten - shooting victims individuals, couples and families who are facing mental health crises. The sion-filled presidential election and TUCSON, Ariz. – United Methodist agency works hand-in-hand with local churches to reach out to people in the upcoming runoff election – now Bishop Minerva Carcaño was need. Fees for services are adjusted according to a client’s income, and the postponed until February or later – among the speakers at a Jan. 11 center is dependent upon generous donations and grants to supplement have helped slow earthquake recov - memorial Mass at St. Odilla these low-fee or indigent clients. ery efforts. Catholic Church for the victims of The center also offers clergy and congregation care services. Clergy the Jan. 8 shooting that left six dead consultation groups and leadership coaching are offered for pastors. Bishop Wills to retire Sept. 1 and 14 wounded, including U.S. Strategic planning, staff development, congregational visioning including NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Bishop Rep. Gabrielle Giffords. The bishop mission, vision and values, conflict mediation and team building are Richard J. Wills, whose area noted that 9-year-old Christina offered for churches, non-profits and corporations. includes the Memphis and Green “had already come forth as a Tennessee Annual Conferences, servant leader” during her short life. Where is it located? First United Methodist Church in Myrtle Beach plans to retire Sept. 1, 2011. He is with six satellite offices in Conway, Carolina Forest, Little River, North retiring under provisions of the May event looks at Myrtle Beach, Murrells Inlet and Pawleys Island. 2008 Book of Discipline , which said cross-racial appointments a bishop may seek “retirement for WASHINGTON, D.C. – How can churches get involved and help? Monetary donations (which health reasons.” Registration is now open for are tax deductible), in-kind donations such as copy paper and printer car - “Facing the Future: Cross- tridges, Office Depot gift cards, baked goods in the waiting room, coffee Board of Church and Society Racial/Cross-Cultural Appointments K-cups and prayers for the staff, clients and board. urges calmer discourse in a Global Church,” a May 16-18 WASHINGTON, D.C. – The United conference at the Westin Los More information: www.coastalsamaritan.org or 843-448-4820. Methodist Board of Church and Angeles Airport Hotel co-sponsored Society joined the nation in grieving by the United Methodist the shooting incident Jan. 8 in Commission on Religion and Race which six people, including a 9- and Board of Higher Education and year-old girl, were killed in Tucson, Ministry. The event will feature spe - Ariz. Top executive Jim Winkler cial learning tracks designed for said in a statement that the agency bishops and cabinets, boards of staff is praying for comfort for those ordained ministries, clergy and laity. families affected by the tragedy. The discount for early registration While many factors seem to have ends Feb. 28. contributed to the shooting, Winkler said, the agency joins with Bishop Ammons, Republicans and Democrats in call - trailblazing leader, dies ing for less vitriolic rhetoric in EVANSTON, Ill. – Retired United political debate. The agency also Methodist Bishop Edsel A. called for making gun ownership a Ammons, who helped lead the more responsible process. church during the transitional time of integration, died Dec. 24 in Church advertises Evanston, Ill., after a lengthy ill - Haiti recovery ness. He was 86. NASHVILLE, Tenn. – To commem - orate the one-year anniversary of Foundation for Evangelism the Jan. 12, 2010, earthquake in names interim director Haiti, The United Methodist Church LAKE JUNALUSKA, N.C. – The is reminding people that much work Foundation for Evangelism board of remains to be done there and sug - trustees has appointed Jane gesting ways they can help. An Boatwright Wood as interim execu - advertising campaign running now tive director, succeeding John through Jan. 23 includes television “Jack” Ewing, who is the new exec - ads on CNN and Fox News utive director for Lake Junaluska Channel, online advertising, text Assembly Inc. Wood has served as messaging and outdoor billboards in vice president at the foundation, an selected cities. The ads invite view - affiliate of the United Methodist ers to go to RethinkChurch.org to Board of Discipleship, for the past find out how to get involved. ix years. BMCR to meet in Feb. NEW ORLEANS – Black Subscribe! Methodists for Church Renewal, a $15/year. Call 888-678-6272 or caucus of The United Methodist e-mail [email protected] today The South Carolina United Methodist Advocate February 2011, Page 21 Seniors Tiller honored for 75 years of service to Union MCBEE – Union United Methodist Women, McBee, have honored Pearl Tiller for 75 years of service to the church. Union UMWs held their October meeting at Tiller’s home to give her Pearl Tiller and the Union UMW ladies, a framed certificate as a thank you along with Pastor Steven Todd, pause for her service. for a smile. The UMWs honored Tiller Tiller, who celebrated her 92nd for 75 years of service to the church. birthday Oct. 14, is the wife of the late Herbert Tiller and has three “Miss Pearl worked tirelessly children, nine grandchildren, 18 with Guild #1 and the Melita great-grandchildren and two great- Newsome Guild,” UMW represen - great-grandchildren. tatives said. “She was committed to Tiller has held many positions at serve the Lord through missions, Union teaching children, youth and spiritual growth and power. Many adult classes, but her first love was of our church members have been the women of the church. blessed through her positive role She was a charter member of the model. Women’s Society of Christian “Thank you and we love you, Service, organized in 1940. Miss Pearl!”

A GRAND TIME – The Bethesda Older Adult Ministry, Lake City, sponsored their annual festive trip Wednesday, Dec. 8. The activity was held at Dolly Parton’s Dixie Stampede in Myrtle Beach. Forty-seven members participated: 27 from Bethesda UMC, and 20 from churches in the surrounding area. Participants said the trip was most enjoyable and the fellowship was great. On the committee were Jean McKnight, Ruth McKnight, Selemore Monk and Gloria Farmer. Page 22, February 2011 The South Carolina United Methodist Advocate Obituaries

Rev. William Sterne Bolte Felkel, pastor of Rowesville Charge, Rev. James L. “J.L.” Stowe Obituary policy: COLUMBIA – Rowesville. SALISBURY, N.C. – The Rev. The Advocate prints death notices of The Rev. William Funeral services were held Jan. 9 clergy and their immediate families and James L. “J.L.” Stowe, father of Sterne Bolte, a at Cattle Creek United Methodist laypersons who have served on confer - Robert Jackson, died Dec. 26, 2010. Church, Rowesville, with burial in ence boards and agencies or who work retired member of for the S.C. Conference of the United Mr. Jackson is the husband of the the S.C. Annual Memorial Park Cemetery, Methodist Church. Rev. Cassandra Pasley-Jackson, pas - Conference of the Orangeburg. tor of the South Greenville Charge. Memorials may be made to CPM United Methodist S.C. Annual Conference of the Funeral services were held Jan. 2 Federal Credit Union, c/o Tommy or Church, died Dec. United Methodist Church. at Gethsemane Missionary Baptist Bolte Kristie Garrick, 480 Stonewall 25, 2010. Funeral services were held Jan. Church, with burial at the U.S. Jackson Blvd., Orangeburg, SC Prior to his retirement in 1997, 10 at the Bossuot-Lundy Funeral National Cemetery. 29115. Rev. Bolte served the McBee, Home, Copenhagen, with burial in Rev. Stowe is survived by his Sumter-Trinity and St. John charges. Sunnyside Cemetery, Naumburg. wife, Sarah C. Stowe, three daugh - A memorial service was held Eleanor White Hulbert Mr. McIntyre is survived by his ters and two sons. Dec. 30 at Asbury Memorial UMC SANFORD, N.C. – Eleanor White three sisters. with burial at Arlington National Hulbert, mother of Bill Hulbert, Rev. Charles Brett Waller Cemetery at a later date. died Dec. 27, 2010. Mr. Hulbert is CHARLESTON – Memorials may be made to the husband of Sylvia Hulbert, for - Marvin Eugene Nicholson The Rev. Charles Asbury Memorial UMC, 1005 mer Columbia District secretary and GAFFNEY – Marvin Eugene Brett Waller, an Asbury Drive, Columbia, SC 29209; currently administrative assistant to Nicholson, brother of the Rev. elder in the S.C. to Trinity UMC, 226 W. Liberty St., the conference secretary. Joseph Nicholson, died Dec. 13, Annual Sumter, SC 29150; to Dalzell UMC, A memorial service was held 2010. Rev. Nicholson is a retired Conference of the P.O. Box 85, Dalzell, SC 29040; or Dec. 31, 2011 at St. Luke United member of the S.C. Annual United Methodist to the Alzheimer’s Association, P.O. Methodist Church. Conference of the United Methodist Church, died Jan. Box 96011, Washington, DC 20090- Mrs. Hulbert is survived by her Church. 8, 2011. Waller 6011. son. Funeral services were held Dec. Rev. Waller had served the Rev. Bolte is survived by his 16 at the Gordon Mortuary Chapel Edisto Island, Cameron, wife, Frances Sherril Clark Bolte, Alice Goodwin McDuffie with burial in Oakland Cemetery. Greeleyville-Lane, Timmonsville- two sons and daughter. BENNETTSVILLE – Alice Memorials may be made to Salem and Butler-Shiloh charges. Goodwin McDuffie, mother of Buford Street UMC, 120 E. Buford A memorial service was held Jan. Stacie Carson Benton Angela Bruce, died Jan. 4, 2011. St., Gaffney, SC 29340; or to 13 at St. Andrews Parish UMC. HANAHAN – Stacie Carson Mrs. Bruce is the wife of the Rev. Hospice Care of South Carolina, Memorials may be made to the Benton, sister of Brenda Howell, Mike Bruce, pastor of Aldersgate 1612 N. Limestone St., Gaffney, SC St. Andrews Parish Music Fund, died Jan. 1, 2011. Mrs. Howell is United Methodist Church, 29340. 3225 Ashley River Road, the wife of the Rev. Jeremy Howell, Greenville. Mr. Nicholson is survived by his Charleston, SC 29414. pastor of First United Methodist Funeral services were held Jan. 7 wife, Evelyn Allsep Nicholson, and Rev. Waller is survived by his Church, Harleyville. at Thomas Memorial Baptist his daughter. father, brother and sister. Funeral services were held Jan. 4 Church, with burial in Sunset at Cherokee Place UMC, North Memorial Park. Annie-Reeves Fairey Spahr Mary Elizabeth Charleston, with burial at Carolina Memorials may be made to ORANGEBURG – Annie-Reeves Vaughn Wilkie Memorial Park. Thomas Memorial Baptist Church, Fairey Spahr, mother of Louisa WOODRUFF – Mary Elizabeth Memorials may be made to 308 W. Main St., Bennettsville, SC Williamson, died Jan. 4, 2011. Mrs. Vaughn Wilkie, grandmother of the Beacon Hospice, 786-C Johnnie 29512; or to Agape Senior Williamson is the wife of the Rev. Rev. Kevin Cooley, died Dec. 14, Dodds Blvd., Mount Pleasant, SC Harbison, 1053 Center St., West David Williamson, pastor of Clinton 2010. Rev. Cooley is the pastor of 29464; or to American Cancer Columbia, SC 29169. UMC, Salley. Philadelphia United Methodist Society, 4900 Core Road, Suite 504, Mrs. McDuffie is survived by her A memorial service was held Jan. Church, Fort Mill. North Charleston, SC 29406. husband, Ansel McDuffie, and two 9 at Orangeburg Lutheran Church. Funeral services were held Dec. Mrs. Benton is survived by her daughters. Memorials may be made to 16 at Bramlett UMC, Gray Court, mother and two daughters. Orangeburg Lutheran Church, 610 with burial in the church cemetery. Frank David McIntyre Ellis Ave., Orangeburg, SC 29115; Memorials may be made to Tommy W. Garrick Jr. LOWVILLE, N.Y. – Frank David or to The Oaks, P.O. Box 367, Bramlett UMC, 2160 Bramlett BOWMAN – Tommy W. Garrick McIntyre, brother of Marlene Orangeburg, SC 29116. Church Road, Gray Court, SC Jr., husband of Kristie Garrick, died Nelson, died Jan. 7, 2011. Mrs. Mrs. Spahr is survived by her son 29645. Mrs. Wilkie is survived by Jan. 5, 2011. Mrs. Garrick is the Nelson is the wife of the Rev. Jerry and daughter. her two sons and daughter. daughter of the Rev. and Mrs. Curtis Nelson, a retired member of the

Leave A Legacy To Change Lives The South Carolina United Methodist Foundation ADVERTISE HERE! P. O. Box 5087, Columbia, SC 29250-5087 [email protected]

To contact the Advocat e’s sale representative, Barbie Russ, call 888-442-7507 or 843-424-2635, Share The Love e-mail [email protected] or visit www.scadvocate-online.org. Buy a loved one a $15 Advocate subscription! Send their name and address, your name and a check payable to the Advocate , 4908 Colonial Dr., Columbia, SC 29203. We’ll send a card notifying them of the gift. The South Carolina United Methodist Advocate February 2011, Page 23 International Bible School Lessons

also be a witness and inform others cross is the path to the goal. The goal ways as James and John? By Rev. Jerry Gadsden about Christ. “Who do you say that I for each child of God to obtain is the What can we learn from Jesus’ am?” glory of God. response to James and John? Gadsden pastors Wesley Chapel UMC, Lake City; chairs What is it about the mission of God’s voice in the cloud clearly the Florence District Committee Christ that informs you of His identi - identified Jesus as God’s chosen one. on Ordained Ministry; and Feb. 27 serves on the board of trustees ty? Do you understand the mission Jesus is the one to whom they should Coming of the Son of Man of the Advocate . and identity of your spiritual leader? listen. Lesson Scripture: Mark 13:14-27 How can you know the truth about Can you name some criteria a per - Background Scripture: Mark 13 Feb. 6 one’s mission? son should possess to be a good Key Verse: Mark 13:26 – “Then Jesus Is the Messiah You may not always understand leader? Are you able to distinguish they will see ‘the Son of Man Lesson Scripture: Mark 8:27-9:1 everything there is to know about the between good and bad leaders of coming in clouds’ with great Background Scripture: Mark 8:27- Christ. His word comes to reassure today? power and glory.” 9:1 us that Jesus is the real and main Key Verse: Mark 8:29 – “He asked thing for us as believers. Feb. 20 In Chapter 13 of Mark’s Gospel, them, “But who do you say that Jesus Came to Serve Jesus addresses the disciples. Some I am?” Peter answered him, Feb. 13 Lesson Scripture: Mark 10:35-45 consider this to be His farewell dis - “You are the Messiah.” This Is My Beloved Background Scripture: Mark course to the disciples. It is no doubt Lesson Scripture: Mark 9:2-13 10:35-45 that the Temple serves as the focal In this chapter, Jesus begins to Background Scripture: Mark 9:2- Key Verse: Mark 10:45 – “For the point of the chapter. lead his disciples away from the 13 Son of Man came not to be Jesus predicts the physical destruc - crowds of Galilee and into the pre - Key Verse: Mark 9:7 – “Then a served but to serve, and to give tion of the Temple. As He describes dominately Gentile region of cloud overshadowed them, and his life a ransom for many.” this destruction, Jesus brings to mind Caesarea Philippi. The land had orig - from the cloud there came a a deeper level for the disciples to inally belonged to Israel, but in these voice, “This is my Son, the The disciples are portrayed in the ponder. He moves them to grasp that more recent days, identified more Beloved; listen to him!” Gospel of Mark as those who were they must shift themselves away with the Romans than with constantly unaware of the signifi - from the normal way of sacrificial Jerusalem. It is at this point that Many people believe that Jesus cance of Jesus’ ministry. Despite the system of offerings they were used to Jesus posed the question to His disci - took Peter, James and John on this fact that Jesus continually informed in the temple. Jesus now wants them ples, “Who do people say that I am?” journey because they were his them that He was to suffer and die, to claim a deeper relationship with Jesus did not ask this question favorites. As children, my grand - their thinking was of a new political almighty God through his life, death, because He didn’t know who He mother often took my siblings and kingdom once Jesus entered resurrection and promised return. was. Nor did He ask the question me with her so that she could keep Jerusalem. Seeing the need for them to because He needed to know the opin - an eye on us. She did not want us to So James and John asked to be respond in like manner, the disciples ion of others. Jesus asked the ques - get into any trouble. seated in places of honor, one on the began to ask for signs of the end tion because He wanted to follow up Whatever the reason, Jesus took right and the other on the left. For times. Jesus responded to them in with another question. these three. What started as a moun - some reason, James and John felt such ways that they could under - People who thought that Jesus was tain retreat quickly changed as the that they were the greatest among the stand, but also says that they must John the Baptist did not really know glory of the Lord shined forth and disciples. So they ask Jesus to con - remain calm. Change was definitely that much about Him. Jesus and John Jesus was transformed right before firm what they were thinking and on the way. False prophets would the Baptist ministered at the same the eyes of the disciples. “He was believing by appointing them to high arise and tempt them. There would time. John and the prophet Elijah transfigured before them” (Mark positions. be wars, and they all would be shak - were truly reformers of their day that 9:2). We are told in Matthew’s James and John had no clue what en by earthquakes. But as disciples, stood up to those who were leading Gospel that His face shone like the it would take to be great in the king - they were to remain strong and the people in corruption. Those who sun. For a short period of time, Jesus’ dom. This was not because Jesus had courageous and continue to witness called themselves leaders were not appearance took on that of divine not told them. They were still operat - without fear. who they said they were. Their true Glory. ing under carnal minds. Their desire Immediately before the return of identities and mission were highly I believe Mark did a decent job of for position and status clearly shows Jesus, before His coming in the questionable. describing the scene, even though it that they had yet to grasp the nature clouds with great power and glory, People had hoped that Jesus could was through the eyes of Peter, when of Jesus in respect to His leadership the world will be wracked by cosmic be seen as John the Baptist or Elijah. he said that his clothes became daz - and power. catastrophes. Paul says in Romans They hoped for a political messiah zling white. This was no ordinary In the Kingdom community that 8:22, “We know that the whole cre - who would someday overthrow the light. It was not a light that was shin - Christ came to build, status, money ation has been groaning as in the powers that corrupted Israel. Many ing on Jesus from the outside. The and popularity are not prerequisites pains of childbirth right up to the thought that Jesus was a herald of word transfigured describes a trans - for leadership. The church is not to present time.” Before the return of national repentance like John the formation on the outside that comes operate the way the world does. Christ, things will become worse. Baptist, while others saw in Him a from the inside. Humble service is the greatest and All of us have questions about the famous worker of miracles like Jesus mentioned to the disciples only prerequisite, as displayed by end times. We are all seekers of Elijah. that he would suffer and die. He had Jesus Himself. information about what it will look It was a good thing that the disci - to go the way of the cross. The disci - We must understand that real min - like as we search for hope about the ples knew what others thought about ples could not understand this. istry is done for the benefit of those present, as well as our future. As we Jesus. But Jesus had to ask them Remember Peter even rebuked Jesus ministered to, not for the benefit of see destruction in our present lives, what they believed about Him. It for making such a statement. Did the minister. Many people are in the many believe that we are living in seems as though Peter knew the Jesus really know what He was say - ministry for what they can receive, the end times. Many of us are still opinion of the crowd. “And they ing and about to do? either materially or emotionally, from seeking signs rather than truth. Truth answered him, ‘John the Baptist; and As they witnessed the scene, Jesus their people instead of for what they must be revealed rather than discov - others, Elijah; and still others, one of displays His glory as King over all can give. ered. the prophets’” (Mark 8:28). Jesus God’s Kingdom. The disciples now Jesus came to serve and not to be What do you think about the was much more than John the Baptist know that Jesus knows what He is served. Jesus is the one who stands images given in this passage? Do or Elijah. Jesus is the Christ. Jesus is doing. They understand that Jesus in the place of guilty sinners and these images affect your attitudes and the Messiah. indeed is still in control. offers Himself as a substitute. Jesus your beliefs? Yes, we are curious For each of us, this becomes a per - There has to be some experience became that substitute for us all. beings. We wonder if there is hope sonal question. Who is Jesus? Every in our own personal lives, as we are While we were yet sinners, Christ for this world. I believe that there is believer must have a personal rela - on this journey with Christ, that we died for us. hope in Jesus. Jesus will reveal to all tionship with Christ. As Mark become glory receivers and not just What are the marks of great lead - when He returns with true power to informs us in his Gospel, we must cross bearers. We must see that the ership? Do we today act in similar call all of us to Himself. Page 24, February 2011 The South Carolina United Methodist Advocate APPORTIONMENTS: Cont’d From Page 1 “We know that many, if not most, churches reached 66 percent conference-wide. are facing shortfalls, yet they believe in the Some heavy last-minute outreach to late- church’s education mission and have paid their paying churches helped the conference bring in apportionments so that this mission can be ful - what was needed, Prestipino said, and the con - filled,” Keith said. ference extended the deadline to Jan. 19 to Keith said the funding SMC receives sup - allow churches a little extra time to make their ports student scholarships and its religious life payments. program. Without that help, she said many stu - The extra effort paid off, and now the con - dents might not be able to continue their edu - ference is relieved it can close 2010 books at cation. just where it expected to be – and conference- The Rev. James McGee, president of United funded organizations can count on receiving Methodist retirement home The Oaks, in what they had anticipated. Orangeburg, said he is extremely proud of the The Columbia District had the strongest per - generous United Methodists in this state. centage, with about 99 percent of apportion - “The outpouring of caring about others dis - ments paid. The Florence District had the low - played in the giving to apportionments, in an est, with about 66 percent. extremely difficult economic time, is evidence “Our goal’s always going to be 100 percent, of the continued concern of Methodists for but at the same point, we saw a lot of large others,” McGee said. “The generosity of our and small churches really step up and make a churches enables The Oaks to continue to valiant effort,” Prestipino said. “Given the eco - assist those in our community who need our nomics (of the nation), it’s wonderful we got help in the waning years of life.” to this point.” Now, Prestipino said his office can focus on Apportionments not only support conference what can be accomplished in 2011; he projects and district administration and efforts of the the same percentage of apportionment giving General Church, but also ministries such as this year. United Methodist colleges and retirement He said the dialogue with local churches has homes, camps and retreats, advance special been extremely helpful and will aid in plan - ministries like Rural Mission or the Bethlehem ning the 2012 budget, which is in development Center, and new or struggling churches who now. need support. “It does take a lot of money to run the Dr. Colleen Perry Keith, president of Annual Conference,” Prestipino said. “But it is Spartanburg Methodist College, said the always evolving.” school can’t say enough to the conference for For more on the 2010 percentages, visit its faithful support. www.umcsc.org/treasurer.html.

Program Registration KEYNOTE SPEAKERS S.C. Conference United Methodist Men’s Spiritual Retreat (Please Print all information) Name ______Wife’s name ______Address ______City ______State______Zip______Phone ( )______E-Mail ______Church ______(No. of members ______) District ______

Retreat Registration Fee [ ] Single Registration Fee (no rooms or meals) ...... $70 Dr. Rodney Dr. Frederick N. After 2-4-11 ...... $85

Powell has served Yebuah, a native of [ ] Man & Wife Registration Fee (no rooms or meals) ...... $85 Trinity United Methodist Ghana, West Africa, has After 2-4-11 ...... $100 Church in Aiken, SC, been pastor of the [ ] My Donation of $______To Support Prayer Line Ministry

for more than 12 years. York St. James Charge [ ] Interested In Being A Volunteer On The Prayer Line since 2007. Total Amount Enclosed ...... $______

SATURDAY WORKSHOPS Make checks payable to S.C. Conference UMMen A Man’s Heart for Missions, led by Rev. and mail with this form to: UMMen Phone: (O) 803-345-4117 Tommy Wilkes, Salkehatchie camp leader and Mr. Daniel Canada (H) 803-798-9294 Marvin Horton, UMVIM 4609 Misty Vale Ln Email: [email protected] Columbia SC 29210 A Man’s Heart for Adventure, led by Rev. Josh McClendon A Man’s Heart for Wellness, led by Rev. Steve Use this registration form and Patterson and Debra Deschamps, RD, LDN, CDE receive a free book at the event! A Man’s Heart for Prayer, led by: Clayton Hotel Reservations & Meals Easter, conference prayer advocate (Individuals are responsible for making all housing and A Man’s Heart for the Outcast, led by Dr. meal arrangements.) Visit www.ummsc.org to download and print Frederick Yebuah a motel registration form with room options A Man’s Heart for Ministry through prior to calling for reservations. Additional Brochures and Retreat Registration forms Scouting, led by: Patton Long, conference are also available online.

scouting coordinator The Radisson Hotel and Convention Center 2100 Bush River Road Columbia, SC 29210 Telephone: (803) 731-0300 Fax: (803) 731-4892 SUNDAY WORKSHOPS In order to get the special convention price, reservations have A Man’s Heart for Ministry through Laity, to be made by February 4 and ask led by Donald Love, Rock Hill District Lay Leader for the SC United Methodist Men’s Meeting ($87/ night). You can have meals at the hotel or go out. A Man’s Heart for Ministry through the The Radisson will set up a cafeteria for attendees in Congaree A Ballroom. UMM: Equipping Every Man with Ideas Breakfast @ $8.00 per person - Lunch @ $10.00 per person and Resources, led by: Herman Lightsey and Dinner @ $12.00 per person ** New and Improved Meals and Desserts ** John Gaither