Methodist Churches Confirm Five New Members

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Methodist churches confirm five new members Five new members were confirmed during services last Sunday, March 22, by Pastor Larry Barbary at the Albion and Loretto United Methodist Churches. The new confirmands are (l.-r.) Cassidy Boschen and Riley Buck (Albion), Brian Mock (Loretto), Rileigh Mapel land Emilie Kelley (Albion). Looking up at the Cross By TODD C. KARGES richest gain I count but loss, Broken Bow United Methodist and pour contempt on all my Jesus said, "And I, when pride. I am lifted up from the Forbid it Lord, that I. earth, will draw all people to should boast, save in the myself." John 12: 32 death of Christ, my God; all I want to invite you to the vain things that charm look up at Jesus on the me most, I sacrifice them to cross. That is how I became his blood. a Christian, a follower of See from his head, his Jesus. I looked up at the hands, his feet, sorrow and cross and saw Jesus hang- love flow mingled down. Did ing there for me. Jesus' e'er such love and sorrow purpose is to draw you into meet, or thorns compose so fellowship with Him, Your rich a crown? Heavenly Father, and the Were the whole realm Holy Spirit. I want you to of nature mine, that were look up to the cross of Jesus an offering far too small; and see him hanging there love so amazing, so divine, for you. What would Jesus demands my soul, my life, say to us from the cross? my all." When I looked up at the Lord Jesus, we give you cross at that church camp our souls, our lives, our near South Bend Ind., over all today. In your precious 40 years ago now, I saw name. Amen. Jesus looking right through me. He could see all the good and the bad of my heart, and He loved me. Jesus told me He wanted to make me the person God created me to be from the beginning of time. I asked Jesus to come into my life and transform all my pride and selfishness and fears into the loving courageous person He had designed me to be. Remember how Jesus prayed on the cross, "Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do." I believe he was praying for more than the guards and the cowardly men who had put him on that cross. Jesus was praying for you and me. We all need forgiving and we need to know what God wants us to do. Like the words of Isaac Watts we sing in our souls: "When I survey the won- drous cross on which the Prince of Glory died, my Chapman UMCtohost pageant The Chapman United Methodist Church is host- ing a Last Supper Pageant on Thursday, April 2nd at 7 p.m. in the Chapman School Auditorium. The presentation includes thirteen local men representing the disciples and Jesus Christ attired in suitable garments to draw your heart and mind into the happening many years ago. There is no charge for admission. Floods have drive for Challengers By AMANDA BRANDT anybody. is ready to take over,” LaRae Hub Staff Writer After being driven to church, joked, nudging her 11-year-old KEARNEY Mike and LaRae Flood the Challengers members daughter. believe everybody should be able to attend attend a 9:30 contemporary LaRae said that all are wel-come church. worship service with the to join the Challengers That’s why Mike drives a First United Floods. They sit throughout the Class, which has truly enriched Methodist Church— van around Kearney on sanctuary and love singing the their lives. Sunday mornings to pick up an average of up-tempo music and greeting group “The class members do more 12 adults in a Sunday school called friends. After the service, the for us and our family than the Challengers Class. class spends an hour in fellow-ship we do for them,” LaRae said. That same belief is why LaRae and her and learning before being “What they remind us of and daughters prepare snacks, Bible bingo and taken back to their homes.homes. teach us when we see them crafts to perform with the class. The Floods insist they don’t it’s more than what we can ever... The Challengers Class is a group of deserve praise for leading the givegive back."back.” adults with developmental or intellectual class. email to: disabilities. But it’s much more than that, “It’s just about being kind [email protected] the Floods say it ’s a safe and fun place and treating all people like for people to feel embraced and accepted people,” LaRae said. “That’s in a community outside of their daily lives. why we do it.” The Floods have been selected as this While the Floods have year’s Freedom —Awards winners in the special relationships with all Religion category. of the Challengers, Mike has The Rev. Gary Main, FUMC’s senior an especially close friendship pastor, described the Flood family’s efforts with one member of the class, as “beyond measure” in a Freedom Award James. Mike, who works in the nomination letter. CHI Health Good Samaritan “Their patience, commitment and lab, calls James an ‘inspiration, acceptance models the love of Christ,” he and said he is sure to share a wrote. “They enable First United Method- joy or concern with the congre- ministry group a ministry from, this marvelous group of the weekly service. adults that others tend to over-look.” The Floods have no plan to discontinue their service. The couple has attended First “Not until the next person United Methodist at 4500 Lin-den Drive since 1999. For the past 10 years, they have been involved in all aspects of the Challengers Class, from trans-porting members to and from the church to leading classes. The Floods have made it a priority to include their four daughters between the ages of 3 and 11 in the class. The children help inin all ways, from making copies to preparing birthday treats. “To some people who hav- morning, disability, they EVERYEVERY SUNDAY morning, Mike Flood drives First United a difference or Methodist Church's white and blue around Kearney to standoffish,” Methodist Church’s white and blue van around Kearney to can be kind of pickpick up the members of the Challengers Class. The class, day-care the members of the Class. The class, said LaRae, a home which is a Sunday school for adults with developmental or provider.“ which is a school for adults with or Mine don’t even intellectualintellectual disabilities,disabilities, hashas been led by the Flood family for see anythinganything different with 101 0 years. Leypoldt publishes memoir entitled: Lost in Wonder, Love and Praise Tammy Partsch cles Leypoldt’s time in 1982-1987 Special to the News-Press college at Nebraska Wes- During that time, from Pulling together his ex- leyan University, and his 1983 to 1985, Leypoldt periences as a pastor, life after college. was the Clerk Treasurer of businessman, husband, His connection to Otoe the Village of Douglas. and father, former Otoe County began in 1979 Leypoldt and his wife, County resident Chuck when Leypoldt was as- Christine, have two grown Leypoldt has published a signed as pastor of the children and three grand- book about his life. United Methodist children. He has been The memoir, “Lost in Churches of Douglas and retired from Church Mu- Wonder, Love, and Burr. Leypoldt also tual Insurance Company Praise,” is titled after a served as the business since 2012. line in the Charles Wesley manager and grain mer- “Lost in Wonder, Love, hymn “Love Divine, All chandiser of Douglas and Praise” is interspersed Loves Excelling.” Grain, Inc., from 1979- with Biblical Scripture Leypoldt has spent his 1981. which Leypoldt relates to entire life in Nebraska. Leypoldt expanded his his own life. The son of a preacher, career in 1981 when he It also contains many Leypoldt grew up in started working for Dou- photographs that Ley- Methodist church par- glas Real Estate and poldt has taken over the sonages across the state. Dunlap Insurance in years. His book details his Douglas, a job he held Copies of “Lost in Won- childhood when he was until 1987. der, Love, and Praise,” influenced by, as he says, Leypoldt also worked which was released in “Methodism, Corn- for Farmers Bank in Dou- January 2015, can be or- huskerism, and Republi- glas, serving as assistant dered from Leypoldt’s canism.” vice president in 1981 and website, The book also chroni- 1982 and executive vice www.pylodet.com. president and CEO from U2charist celebrates Maundy Thursday By Harold Reutter “U2 has some really profound music, grew up in a home with parents who had Sheffy said. addiction problems. Hope Harbor is bring- [email protected] Mariah, previ-ously ing stability life, applause Like she had never to the woman ’s as she Cheers and broke out as the ously attended a U2charist service on is nowlearning howto budgetwhile pay-ing final notes to the U2 and B.B. King song Thursday Holy providing away the of Week. But she said down debt and a more sta-ble “When Love Comes to Town” faded she was excited when she learned that life for her own children. in the Grand Theatre near the end of something Mayfield’s Gospel pas-sage Maundy Thursday wor-ship a U2charist service was that talk fit with the the U2charist First-Faith United Methodist, Trinity read by Brian Gallagher, who read service. United Methodist and First Christian Andwhynot? Likeanygood, up-tempo fromJohn 13: 1-17 and John 13: 31-35. The Church have annually gone together to first 17 verses of the chapter tell the story blues tune,“ When Love Comes to Town” put of howJesus washed his disciples’ feet. happy, on. made listeners feel not sad and First-FaithUnitedMethodistandTrin-ity lyrics story sin-ner, The final four verses tell about Jesus’ blue. The tell the of a disciples by United Methodist consider themselves command to his to“ Love one but one who has been saved the joined year-round through symbol you, grace sailor, the another. As I have loved so must of God:“ I was a I was lost of UM4GI. The 4GI ( For G. I.) was appli-cable you love one another. By this, everyone in sea. I was under the waves before love Thursday evening, because the of-fering will know that you are my disciples.” rescued me.” go any sponsor-ing Steffy expounded not-ing story redemption did not to of the on those verses, That of God’s was churches, but rather to Hope that everybody in today’s world talks part of every Maundy Thursday service power, power conducted at various churches Grand Harbor. about whether it be the of in LizMayfield, Hope develop-ment during stormy part Holy Harbor’s Mother Nature the sea-son Island as of Week services. director, noted that Hope Harbor of a Nebraska spring or the power But by using the secular music of U2, serves homeless and near-homeless wielded by politicians. She noted that U2charist came with a modern twist that women, politicians power appeal young children and families of Grand when don’t use their can to a diverse audience of people to, people begin people Island. It offers both a transitional shel-ter as want them to and old, as well as who attend and an overnight emergency grumble. She said Peter was surprised church every Sunday, people who attend power sporadically shelter. when Jesus chose to exercise his churchmore and even those The existing transitional shelter has by washing his feet. Jesus set an exam-ple who never attend church. beds, $ Expanding young people 66 but a 1.6 million of a servant-leader. One of the in the Grand Hope capital campaign up After washing his disciples’ feet, Je-sus Theatre was Lauren Jacobson, a ninth-grader will allow to 32 more beds in Hope Harbor bymoving affirmed his power by saying the dis-ciples at Central Catholic. Lauren was most existing offices from the shelter at ciples rightly called him“him "Master"Master” and at the service with her mom, Rhonda. Contryman "Teacher." said that because he Trinity 610 W. Division to the former “Teacher.” Jesus said that because he Both are members of United Associates building at 615 W First St. washed the disciples’disciples' feet,feet, the disciples Methodist Church in Grand Island. Associates at 615 W. First St. But Mayfield said Hope Harbor also are nowobligatednow obligated to wash one another’sanother's Lauren said she attended her first has programs to promote sustainable feet becausebecause“"nono servant is greater than U2charist service at the Grand Theatre self-sufficiency by an example year suggestion self-sufficiency by itsits clients. She told his master”master" and“and "II have set an last at the of her mom. about Hope Harbor breaking the cycle that you should do as I have done for thought really cool,” Lau-ren, about Harbor the that should do as I have done for “I it was said of poverty for one young woman who you."you.” who said she enjoyed the U2 music. one woman Both Lauren and Rhonda thought the U2 music and the modern U2charist ser-vice can help keep young people coming to church. Two other young people at the U2cha-rist service were friends Mariah Piont-kowski and Jamie Goodman, both fifth-graders at Gates Elementary. Jamie said she has been to two previous U2charist services at the Grand Theatre, while Mariah said this was her first experi-ence. ence. As a result, Mariah said she did not know what to expect. Jamie said she has thoroughly en-joyeden- joyed the previous services largely be-be-cause cause of the music. But Jamie does not justjust like thethe sound of the music. She said people cancan“"learnlearn things from the music.”music." That was also the opinion of the Rev. Karla Sheffy,Sheffy a pastor who is in her firstfirst year servingserving atat Trinity United Method-istMethod- ist Church. Independent/MattIndependent/ Matt Dixon

Garwood on guitar, Abby Necker on bass and Warren Pennell on drums during U2charist, a Christian worship service using the music of U2, Thursday evening at the Grand Theatre. Churches reach out to enlarge their flocks Though fewer people are tied to congregations, they still consider themselves religious

BY MICHAEL O’CONNOR WORLD-HERALD STAFF WRITER Laura Wilburn believes in God, prays every day and even quotes Bible verses to friends looking for inspiration. But you’ll rarely find the 27-year-old in church. “I don’t think it’s necessary to have to sit in a pew once a week,’ she said. “It’s (about) being able to worship in your own ways.” ’ As Easter dawns, churches are facing a challenge. Pews will be full today, but that’s not always the case the rest of the year and Wilburn’s mindset is a big reason. The number of Americans who do not identify with any—religion continues to grow rapidly. One-fifth of the U.S. public and a third of adults under 30 fall into that category, according to the most recent figures from the Pew— Research Center. That trend— is playing out as national surveys have revealed slow but steady declines in the percentage of people who say they belong to a congregation and a rise in the percentage of people who say they never attend services. Church leaders know they face hurdles but say they have reason to be hopeful. Surveys show that many people who aren’t tied to a religion believe in God, consider themselves spiritual and pray every day, plus they believe places of worship help the poor and See Easter: Page 2 Easter: Some people chafe at rules and doctrine, which churches call essential benefit communities in other ways. said. better serve the community and Knowing there’s potential to reach Rules and policies are common draw new members. It’s a church, a among shop, folks like Wilburn, local churches denominations, but some bookstore and a coffee all un- join, open public. have been taking steps to connect. members leave, and some never der one roof and to the One Omaha congregation launched because of them. Community service is part of the an informal service this year in Deacon Tim McNeil, spokesman Abbey’s ministry. Members have which the pastor doesn’t do all the for the Omaha Archdiocese, said that cleaned parks, picked up trash in the talking attendees have a conver- for the Catholic Church, doctrine is Old Market and volunteered at a food sation with him and each other. One essential because it helps unite mem- pantry. big west Omaha church is opening bers of a congregation and provides Other denominations, such as the an additional site in midtown this direction. Evangelical Lutheran Church in — unity order, America, recognize spring, partly to reach young people “When there is and the also the value at nearby university campuses. Holy Spirit is more able to flourish of community service and its appeal Churches know that community and lead people on the way to heav- among young people. volunteer work can be particularly en,’ he said. Omaha’s Kountze Memorial appealing to young people, and they He’ also said that by joining a Lutheran runs a food pantry and highlight those opportunities. congregation, people experience the launched a free medial clinic five Clergy emphasize that sharing the power of worshiping as a community. years ago that draws volunteers of Gospel message is the goal of attract- Praying in one voice, he said, is im- all ages, including teens and college ing people to the pews. But declining portant because “God created us to students. attendance and membership can be in relationship with each other.” “Young people see that as an squeeze congregations financially. Churches have long provided ways important aspect of what our faith Churches sometimes have to scale for members to connect with God tells us to do,’ said Gordon Boe, the back ministries when membership or and each other beyond the Sunday church’s urban outreach coordinator. attendance falls, because the decline service, such as youth groups and “It’s God’s love.”’ affects financial giving. Sometimes senior citizens events. King of Kings Church started a church closures or mergers result. But the effort is renewed as service this year aimed at people in Pella Lutheran in midtown Omaha, churches search for more ways to their 20s and 30s who are looking for example, closed last year mainly help people grow together in their for an informal worship experience. because of dwindling membership. faith. People sit around tables, and instead Most people who remained joined a Wilburn said she attended a Meth- of just listening to a preacher, they nearby Lutheran congregation, said odist church growing up but stopped interact with the minster and each Mitch McCartney, spokesman for the attending services regularly about other, asking questions, raising Nebraska Synod of the Evangelical four years ago. She now goes just a doubts and sharing their beliefs. Lutheran Church in America. couple of times a year with her fami- At St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church Membership and attendance in ly. She was not planning to attend an in west Omaha, a new effort to the synod both declined from 2005 to Easter service today. enhance and explain the faith is 2011, the most recent year available. Wilburn said even though she planned this fall. A 10-week series Other denominations have faced doesn’t attend church much, she can of talks will address such topics as declining numbers, as well. see that changing down the road. church teachings and the Bible, fol- Although church membership She said becoming part of a church lowed by small-group discussion and within the Archdiocese of Omaha has would have benefits, even though faith sharing. grown during the past 20 years, the she believes being a good Christian Lifegate Church in west Omaha number of people actually showing doesn’t hinge on sitting in a pew. is opening an additional site in a up for church has declined. She said she recognizes that con- former Presbyterian Church at 55th The Pew Center surveys show that gregations provide community. She and Leavenworth Streets this spring. most people who aren’t affiliated hopes in the future to join a church Church leaders hope the midtown with a religion think that religious that emphasizes what she believes site draws students from the nearby organizations are too concerned with that God is loving and forgiving University of Nebraska at Omaha money and power and too focused on and particularly one that demon- and University of Nebraska Medical rules and politics. strates God’s love through communi- Center. Wilburn said she is Christian and ty service. Mike Ballard, Lifegate’s executive grew up attending church with her — Omaha’s Urban Abbey is one effort senior pastor, said he hopes the new family. by — But she said the time to reach folks like Wilburn. Run by church will send a strong message: she was a teenager she had become First United Methodist Church, the “God loves you enough He will come turned off by the preaching. Abbey has a reputation as a welcom- to you.” pastors Too often, she said, focused ing and accepting place of worship. condemning people, gays Contact the writer: on such as It opened four years ago in the Old 402-444-1122, [email protected] and lesbians. Market as an effort by First United “They were too judgmental,’ she ’ to redefine the church experience, “I don’t think it’s necessary to have to sit in a pew once a week. It’s ( about) being able to worship in your own ways.” Laura Wilburn believes in God, prays every day and even quotes Bible verses to friends looking for inspiration

KENT SIEVERS/ THE WORLD-HERALD In an outreach to people who might want something different in worship, Countryside Community Church in Omaha offers an 11 a. m. jazz service. Read more about music trends at church in today’s Living section.

ABSTAINING FROM CHURCH

church on Omaha.com/living Columnist to address racism, povert y By ERIN ANDERSEN 50th St. The event runs from 1 to Lincoln Journal Star 5:30 p.m. Pitts’ keynote address will If you go Ferguson, Island, by Missouri. Staten be followed breakout sessions on ■ What: Peacemaking Work- ■ Barriers to reentry from ■ Racial profi ling in Nebraska New York. Madison and Milwaukee, how people can get involved locally shop XXIX, featuring keynote prison to civilian life Cathy Rebecca Gonzales, project Wisconsin. Each was the site of racial to combat racism and poverty. The speaker Leonard Pitts Jr., au- Gibson-Beltz, deputy director coordinator for racial justice discord following the event is free to the public; no reserva- thor and syndicated columnist for programs and community with Nebraska Appleseed deaths of black at required. services with the state Depart- men tions are ■ When: 1 to 5: 30 p. m. April Center for Law in the Public ment of Corrections; Katrina— — the hands of police. The annual Peacemaking Workshops 12 Interest; Bennie Shobe, presi- Thomas ( a reentrant); and There is no doubt sponsored by dent of the Lincoln branch of are the Interfaith Peace- ■ Where: First United Method- Jim Jones, executive director America has racism the NAACP; and Amy Miller, making Coalition, made up of people ist Church, 2723 N. 50th St. of OASIS ( Offender Account- problems. attorney with ACLU Nebraska. from many faith communities and civic ■ Tickets: Admission is free. ability Synergistic Interactive bigger prob- ■ workshops But the groups working together peace. Services). The will be for ■ poverty Six workshops will be pre- offered in two sessions, so lem is and “Eating (Jim) Crow” is based on ■ Youth organizing for social sented from 3 to 4 p. m. and participants may choose two. PITTS all the biases, stereo- King speech change Vernee Norman, Martin Luther Jr.’s at the 4: 15 to 5: 15 p. m. They are: However, workshop types and judgments a student at Union College; Shavers’ end of his march on Montgomery. ■ implicit only that come with it, according to Leon- Bias in law and law and Keiana Thomas, a stu- will be in the fi rst session — According to Pitts, most of Ameri- only ard Pitts Jr., a syndicated newspaper enforcement Anna Shav- dent from the University of and Starkweather’s in the ca’s social problems can be traced back ers, Cline Williams professor Nebraska-Lincoln.— second session. columnist, author and 2004 Pulitzer to poverty and the socially accepted of citizenship law at the Uni- ■ Prize winner for commentary. ■ Poverty and organizing To learn more: Go to job conquering poor. versity of Nebraska-Lincoln. org go Pitts will present his program “con” of the It — for inclusive community: fi rstumc. or to facebook. demarcation, ■ Unconscious bias; bias justice com and enter“ Interfaith “Eating (Jim) Crow: Divisions Cre- is this social clothed in economic Lincoln racial tension, that locks Americans we carry in our minds Ka- Sen. Patty Pansing Brooks and Peacemaking Coalition” in the ated by Race and Divisions Created thie Starkweather, farm and Beatty Brasch, executive direc- search window; or call First by Poverty” Peacemaking into classes, helping the rich get richer at the community program People keeping poor place. director, tor of the Center for in United Methodist Church at Workshop XXIX April 12 at First and the in their — Center for Rural Affairs. Need. 402-466-1906. United Methodist Church, 2723 Page — N. See WORKSHOP, D3 Workshop It’s what makes capital- “they’re talking about me,” to avoid the bounty hunters tated by lood waters. But ism work, Pitts said. the illusion falls apart. looking for him for many when the white residents “While"While II can’tcan't say race Pitts’Pitts' reputation for tell- Americans, the picture returned home to no run- doesn’tdoesn't have any efect,effect, ing it like it is andand pointing these descriptions create in ning water, no electricity, aa lot timestimes when we are outout the disparities caused their heads is of an African no public services the talking about we are by poverty and race, has American. However,— community about race, we are poverty race, in leaders’ irst really talking aboutabout pover- earnedearned him much praise. each of these instances, the action was to pass a law ty,"ty,” Pitts saidsaid in a telephone He’sHe's humbled by the person was white and prohibiting people —from interview. compliments,compliments, butbut baled.baffled. poor. purchasing land, unless But society doesn’tdoesn't “Isn’t"Isn't this obvious to The issues are not inher- they were related to some- everyone? depressing talk aboutabout poverty andand its It’s entent to African Americans, one who had lived there efectseffects on virtually every that it should be obvious, Hispanics or Natives.— They before. on aspect ofof people'speople’s lives.lives. and apparently it is not,” areare inherent in poverty, he “The community was “We"We choosechoose toto frameframe it Pitts said. said.said. afraid that black folks surgery. racially, because frankly it isis “It’s not brain “I’ve"I've spentspent aa lot of years would come in,” Pitts said. saying, more useful,”useful," Pitts said. The stuf I’m if trying to get people to “It was amazing to me. "We“We are used to us- anyone… has done any study community are to us- understand, that when Here was a in ing poverty asas aa marker about what is going on it they look at what’swhat's inin their such dire straits, and the or proxy forfor race.race. We say really is not that mysteri- wallets and bankbank accounts, irst oicial act is to make complicated. you 'black'black’ when we mean ous or If they really have aa lot more sure the community stays understand the whole ‘'poverty.'poverty.’ And say 'poverty'poverty’ in common than in con- white It speaks volumes when we mean 'black.'"black.’” history of social dynamics, tention,"tention,” Pitts said.“said. "It'sIt’s a to the …idea that social ‘ ‘ here, Today, poverty is seen as what we see and what matter of education. It is capital is cherished even aa character flaw.law.‘ we’ve seen before.” diicult to wean them from across hurricane-ravaged "They're“They’re lazy,’lazy,' oror 'theythey He illustrates the points the exclusive social cat- communities.”communities." by highlighting egory did this,'this,’ oror 'didn'tdidn’t do that.’that.' social of whiteness.” So howhow do we get people— something they ‘ issues facing an impover- It’sIt's something they diddid He recalled the aftermath to recognize the issues of wrong community wrong that ‘causedcaused them to ished in Ohio of Hurricane Katrina and poverty and a system that be in those circumstances,"circumstances,” a teenage high school two low-income com- keeps it solidly in place? Pitts said.“said. "ThatThat (concept)( concept) dropout pregnant with her munities directly across Education. only works if white poverty second child; a man seeking the canal from one another And grassroots action. is invisible.”invisible." unneeded medical care in one black and the other "I“I have always beenbeen oneone But if people realize an— emergency room, hoping But if realize white.— Both were devas- who didn’tdidn't believebelieve in char- people about all this stuf, there is all this earnest- ness,” he said. “They want to make change, but feel very powerless to make change.” But people do have the power. “People need to get up and get in the way,” Pitts said quoting civil rights leader John Lewis. “They need to get in good trouble.” Reach Erin Andersen at 402-473- 7217 or eandersen@journalstar. com. Wesleyan musicians to perform at Saint Paul UMC The First Friday Con- The art exhibit in Paine cert/Art Series at Saint Parlor will display the Paul United Methodist work of Julia Noyes and Church, 1144 M St., will will feature subtle crosses be held the second Friday and other abstracts. this month (due to Good Lunch ($5) will be avail- Friday April 3) and will on able in Paine Parlor start- feature 12:10 p.m. free a ing at 11:30 and concert by performers a.m. following the concert. from the Nebraska Wes- McKinley leyan University Music The Bells will Department. be heard from the church The concert will feature tower and broadcast into vocal solos and a duet, the piano, trumpet, clarinet, Sanctuary prior to the string quartet and flute concert and will be played ensemble. by Brent Shaw. SERVING THE COMMUNITY FOR MORE THAN 110 YEARS Saturday, April 4, 2015

the bells at First United Methodist Church in Hastings. The bells, which were donated in memory of William Lanning's mother, are 100 years old. Names that ring a bell KLEPPINGER, NICHOLSON, experience was playing the piano for a In the first year that the bells were few years as a child. in service, a tower bell specialist was HALLORAN, MICHALEK While it had been decades since brought in to train someone at the TAKE TURNS EACH SUNDAY she’d played a music instrument, church. Kleppinger said the bells are easier since Today, there they only played are SHAY BURK can be in one octave. four parishioners you pretty [email protected] “When look at it, it’s who are knowledgeable easy,” she said. “It’s and There or just a few members of First one octave playing are you play one note at a time.” in the so few To play the bells, the player pushes bells, including people in Kleppinger. The oth-ers “ down series of wooden handles. on a Karyn the world Those handles are connected to heavy- are get Nicholson, Connie who part ministry. Ffulfilling their of the the bells that then move and chime. Halloran and Tom the When the current First United The bells, which weigh 14,000 Michalek. chance to Methodist Church building was being pounds with rigging, were a gift to the Halloran, who esti-mates play for built at 614 N. Hastings Ave. in 1915, church by William H. Lanning the whole unique as a she has been a set of 10 bells were installed memorial to his mother, who had playing the bells for belfry town. in the main of the church. been a lifelong Methodist. about 15 years, said And for the last 100 years, church On each of the bells is cast the fol-lowing steep she does it for the members have climbed those inscription in relief,“ In memo-ry enjoyment. stairs to push or pull on wooden han-dles Mary Lanning, Tom of 1825-1888.” “I do it because I to play the tower bells. W. H. Lanning was a Hastings mayor Michalek “You"You hope you put peoplepeople inin the and founder of Mary Lanning enjoy it myself,” she ” right frame of mind for the day,”day," Carol Memorial Hospital, which waswas named said.“Or maybe Kleppinger saidsaid ofof playing the bells. in honor of his daughter.daughter. TheThe hospital there is somebody in the hospital Kleppinger has played thethe bells for opened thethe same year ground was bro-bro-ken who hears it and perks up.”- about seven years. Her previous music ken on the nearby church.church. Please see BELL/ page A3 Bell: Ringers takes turns

Continued from page A1 “Hopefully I make my mis-take don’t realize when music is Michalek, who has only been in the first round and then being played. playing for about four years, is a I can correct it the second time And the only recognition the music teacher for Hastings and try to be better,” she said. players get each week is from a Public Schools. He relishes the The music for the bells is all line in the bulletin that says bell chance to play this unique handwritten, adapted from tower and the player’s name. instrument. traditional patriotic and reli-gious “So people know there is “That’s what drew me to it,” songs. The challenge is something called the bell tower he said. “There are so few peo- the bells can only be played in and somebody is up there,” one octave, limiting the num-ber Nicholson said. chance to play for the whole of songs that can be She said sometimes the town.” played. Sunday school classes will go up According to towerbells. org, The players typically play and visit. Otherwise some of the there are currently only four sets before and after a service on older church members also of operational tower bells of this Sunday mornings. They alter-nate, know that the bells are played kind in the state of Nebraska. which means each one by individual people. Michalek said one unique plays about once a month. Michalek said it was through part about this instrument is With other churches in the conversation with another that there is a great sense of area also playing bells, that are church member and a visit up anonymity when it comes to typically computerized, the those steep stairs that intro- who is actually operating the UMC players will typically play instrument. at 10 before or 10 after the hour. “I walked in and I was like, ‘I “There’s some safety in that,” As for what they play, each can’t believe this is up here. I Michalek said.“ It’s not like players said it’s whatever mood didn’t know this was up there,’” you’re on the alter playing. they’re in. he said.“ And Marcia said, ‘Oh Nobody knows who is up “I have a couple listed specifi-cally play a song. Go ahead.’ So I said there.” to do before church and a OK and just jumped in.” That anonymity means their couple to do after church,” Michalek said playing the mistakes aren’t as painful, Nicholson said.“ I don’t know bells is something special for either. why, but after church I like him each month. Nicholson, who has played somethingsomething really perky and “It does kind of feel like our for about 25 years, said she will speedy.”speedy." own little piece of the ministry,” play each song twice in case TheThe bells can onlyonly be heard he said. there were any errors in her outsideoutside the church and not “It’s my mission work for the playing. inside, so people in the building day,”day," Halloran said.said. Short Stuff Live Last Supper April 2 The Neligh United Methodist Church is sponsoring a living "Last Supper" at the Neligh American Legion Thursday, April 2, at 7 p.m. The community is invited and encouraged to attend the worship service. Members of the church will reenact the biblical story of Jesus sharing his final meal with his disciples and washing of the disciples' feet. Bruce Phillips is the pastor. Olympian speaks at annual family banquet By Lisa Fischer it was Tomasevicz's turn to asked to join the team. ic career. When he needed take center stage andpres- "I was going against money to pay for bobsled- ARCADIA Curt Toma- -- ent his speech about facing black shirts everyday and I and supplies, the town sevicz, Olympic athlete and ding your fears. was getting my butt kicked about people came Shelby native, is no stranger of 690 "Fear holds you back every day," Tomasevicz add- together, and fundraised public speaking. to from being the best person ed. approximately $25,000. Over the course of his you could be," he said. Even though things "Nobody from Shelby illustrious decade-long ca- The presentation began were not easy for him on had seen a bobsled in real reer as a bobsledder Toma- with Tomasevicz speaking the field, he proudly stated life," Tomasevicz said. sevicz has spoken at schools of his humble beginnings how he stuck with it and "Shelby believed in me throughout his home state. while growing up in Shelby. eventually moved from a because believed in some- So when Arcadia's United I As a child his mother was position as a running back thing." Methodist Men asked him adamant about Tomasevicz to linebacker. After achiev- After speaking of his to be the featured speaker being -productive instead ing a spot on UNL's football 10 years on the bobsleigh at their 30th Annual Family of falling into an average team, graduating with a circuit every person pres- Banquet on March 21 he routine. Annual readily agreed. childhood bachelor's in electrical engi- ent at UMM's 30th "She always pushed me could see "He's living proof that neering and while attending Family Banquet be better," Tomasevicz much Shelby meant and just because you're from a • to graduate school Tomasevicz how small town it doesn't mean said. set his sights on another meaqs to Tomasevicz. up playing a never going you can't do big things," He grew challenge...bobsledding. "I'm to said Roland Sell, banquet variety of sports, including A fellow UNL athlete forget that I'm a Huskie," he my favorite coordinator. football. Tomasevicz's sta- had just been recruited to said. "Shelby is high school were my Sell said UMM invites tistics in join the U.S. Women's Bob- part of story." University who find a way to so good that of sleigh Team and thought he During his ten years of speakers started connect God, Family and Nebraska-Lincoln might have what it takes to working with teammates of interest traveling Athletics to their lives to sending letters join the men's team. So, he and coaches, down speak at the annual banquet. his junior year. The univer- took time off from graduate a 14-curve track, twice a was rescinded In prior years patrons were sity's interest school, flew to Calgary, Can- day, on a 450 pound sled that following year when speeds of more than regaled with speeches from the ada and became a bobsled- reached dropped due to a his Tom Osborne and Dr. Mary his stats der. 90 mph Tomasevicz had broken collar bone. Neal. The speakers, music During his first season share of fears to overcome. Instead of letting the "Everybody has and all around atmosphere his team made it to the fears," injury keep him from "I is why community members World Cup circuit on the Tomasevicz said. had to higher education, Tomase- a way that fear like JoAnn Scott come year USA II sled. His Olympic find to face vicz buckled down, kept his debut was in Tornio in 2006 and not worry about the after year. grades up and achieved a "They have really, really where his team came in unknown." UNL Regent's Scholarship Through various tactics good speakers here," Scott sixth. In the 2010 Olympics to study electrical engineer- that but not limit- said. "The entertainment's in Vancouver, Canada he, included, ing. Never losing his flair breathing techniques good and the food's always Steve Holcomb, Justin Olsen ed to for athletics or willingness listening stimulating been good." and Steve Mesler raced the and to to face, a fear, Tomasevicz he way to Prior to Tomasevicz's "Night Train" to the first music, found a approached a member of Olym- overcome his fears. speech patrons heard from American four-man UNL's footbail program "Every ounce of energy Pastor Jeff Hale, the master pic title in 62 years. In 2014 about joining the team I had went into something of ceremonies, and an the team he was on took and fulfilling his dream of positive," he added. Invocation from Mackenzie home a bronze medal mak- becoming a Husker Football one of After a decade of train- Maschka before enjoying a ing Tomasevicz only player. ing for and competing in hearty meal from Country six American bobsledders "I found out about an history various bobsleigh competi- Catering, a business based in to earn multiple open tryout," he said. "I tions decided to Litchfield. After plates Olympic medals. Tomasevicz in trained hard to be bigger, his bobsleigh gear were cleared audience mem- He said trying to make it to trade faster and stronger." for teaching materials. The bers had the pleasure of lis- as an athlete was not always Four endurance and now retired bobsledder is the widely talented easy on your pocketbook. In tening to agility based tests later leading a pilot program at vocals of Carol Money who fact, early on in his career against 119 other athletes the University of Nebras- was accompanied on piano Tomasevicz's hometown, Tomasevicz and two other where he will Ruth After Five Shelby, played an intricate ka-Lincoln in- by Moore. university students were uplifting musical selections, role in financing his athlet- struct engineering students Photos found on Google + in engineering and athletics' attachment UMM was able to host Tornasevicz, Money and 3/ Moore during the 30th An* II mial Family Banquet thanks in part to the generous 9< donations of more than 60 generous sponsors. il "It would be impossible to do this event without ouru sponsors," Pastor Jeff Hale, the master of ceremonies said. ! c

Mackenzie Maschka. Ruth Moore, Carol Money. Robert Rita, Cart Tomasevics and Pastor Jeff Hale played integral parts in making the SOth Annaal United Methodist Man's Family Baaqaet a saccess. At right, Tomacevics holds up one of two Olympic medals he earned, while representing the IMS. daring various Olympic competitions.

Photos by Lisa Fischer

Geiler to perform at Church WAVERLY Mike Geiler will be returning to the First United Methodist Church in Waverly for a performance on Sunday, April– 12 at both the 9 and 11 a.m. service. Now known as a multi-fac-eted and talented recording artist, Geiler understands and embraces the call of mu-sic, songwriting and leading worship. Over the last 15 years, he has written, recorded and in-dependently released a bar-rage of original music from pop/ rock, funk, gospel, and most recently, worship. GUEST: Former Waverly resident Mike Geiler will be performing at the Geiler is from the rural First United Methodist Church on Sunday, April 1 2. Geiler is a recording Waverly area and is a gradu-ate artist specializing in worship music. of Waverly High School. He currently leads worship Geiler’s latest release, Rain Down” stand out as at West Hills Church in Oma-haOma- “Undefeated”, which is high-energy worship songs ha where his original wor-wor-ship the on independent label that point the listener to ship songs have contributed Crossed Out Music, features Christ with expert songwrit-ing to thethe corporate worship ex-perienceex- five worship songs recorded and production value. perience there. and produced by Riley Fri-esen The First United Method-ist He and wife, Nicole are esen ((FamilyFamily Force 5).“5). "Un-Un-defeated” ist Church is located atat 14410 the parents of Wilson, 8, and defeated" andand“"HolyHoly Spirit Folkestone, Waverly. Chester, 4. HIV AIDS benefit concert set for Friday UM4GI will present its seventh annual HIV AIDS Benefit Concert at 7 p. m. Fri-day, April 10, at Grand Island Trinity United Methodist Church, 511 N. Elm. Enjoyaneveningwithper-forming artists fromcentral andeasternNebraskainclud-ing singer/ songwriter Scott Taylor, multi-instrumental-ist Paul Siebert, folk and gos-pel musician Paul Wold, and singer/ songwriterEmilyDun-bar. Refreshments and infor-mation tables will be avail-able at intermission. AfreewillA freewill offering will be accepted, withwithallproceedsgo-ingall proceeds going to the UM4GI HIV AIDS Emergency Fund to meet needsofneeds of clientsclientsservedthroughserved through the regional Nebraska AIDS Project in Kearney.Kearney For more information, call Trinity United Method-istMethod- ist Church at 382-1952. Food pantry helps find permanent way out of poverty Kayla Eggenberg better future. This is because Collaborative offering numerous Contributor they have the opportunity resources to help their clients to benefits the create better lives, but the food The coordinator for the Hunger reap the of numerous resources available they are offering has more Collaborative gave a speech at the to them through the Hunger nutritional value than what is University of Nebraska at Omaha Collaborative. usually seen in food pantries. on March 17 to call attention to The collaborative is changing the non-profit food pantry that To achieve their is changing the dynamic of food goal of helping the nature of the food pantry by become offering quality over quantity. pantries by helping people find a people self-sufficient, the Hunger Collaborative offers permanent way out of poverty. benefits such as free medical They encourage nutritional eating in such The coordinator, Craig Howell, and dental care, rapid housing many ways as community programs, veteran gardens, where volunteers help also serves as vice president of the assistance, clients plant and Board of the United Methodist financial literacy program, harvest their own Ministries and the president emergency financial assistance program and entrepreneurial fresh produce. The of the Burke High School Teen collaborative also Center. programs for single mothers. provides ways to Omaha is educate clients about Non-profit food pantries have Although among the top in country nutrition. always measured success by the in resources and how many people come through wealth, according to Howell, The pantries are the door each year. The Hunger thousands of people do not "choice pantries," Collaborative is changing the way have access to fresh food. The which means that food pantries measure success by United States has the highest clients have all the sharing resources with other food level of poverty in all developed normal choices pantries in the area. countries. they would have as if they were in a The Hunger Collaborative unites "We have the resources but not grocery store. The the Heart Ministry Center, the will," he said. "From 24th challenge, he said, is to Heartland Hope Mission and and Ames [streets] to 24th and Q educate people about Together in a collaborative which [streets] is a corridor of poverty," nutrition provide started with holding food drives Howell said. and nutritional choices. together in 2013. Collaborating together meant that volunteers Food insecurity studies have The collaborative could be better trained and more shown that 24th Street is a "food has high hopes resources could be available. desert." This is why the Hunger Collaborative has made this for the future. In "This is a collaborative that area addition to decreasing shares everything," the focus of their attention. Howell said. chronic use of food pantries, Howell Not only do they share the Moreover, according to Howell, Omaha has the three largest said, their goal volunteers, but also food drives, food pantries in the of is to end veteran food, funding, programs and state Nebraska which, he said, is not homelessness by staff. In doing so, they maximize — something to be proud of. 2016 and to end childhood the resources available. hunger by 2017. "Our goal as the Hunger "Food pantries can't be just Collaborative is to make certain "Hope is a meaningless word in about food," Howell said. "The that [in] the next generation, the absence of suffering," Howell Hunger Collaborative has to be nobody will say that the three said. "The strongest people I ever more than just an act of charity." largest food pantries are in meet are the clients of our food Omaha," he said. pantries." When clients walk in, not only do they receive food, but they Not only is the Hunger are also offered hope for a Photo courtesy of Hunger Collaborative The Hunger Collaborative helped put 336,000 meals on the table in 2013. Gretna pastor takes a trip to the Holy Land By Ashley Zajac Staff Writer Near the end of January this year, Pastor Janice Japp of the Gretna United Methodist Church joined a few of her fellow companions on a religious pilgrimage to the Holy Land. The trip included visits to Israel , the occupied Palestinian area and Egypt. The trip was comprised of individuals from the Great Plains Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church and, in all, 21 individuals attended the trip. The tour was led by Bishop Scott Jones. “It’s always a growing experience when you are out of the box,” said Japp.“It is enriching even when the culture is different because it is a broader experience. Any travel you do is helpful to anyone. This was my first time in Asia and Africa. I learned things related to faith and to me personally. There is some sense of surprise in the Biblical Story that God comes down to Earth to where we are. Seeing the area, you think ‘Jesus really Pastor JaniceJanice Japp of the Gretna United Methodist Church (second( second fromfrom the right)right) took aa trip overseas and visitedvisited walked here?’” the Sphinx in Giza, Egypt. A religious pilgrimage is a journey used to experience and learn the biblical story in people. For many years the context. While on the trip to the Holy Land has been a site of Holy Land, these individuals pilgrimage. The opportunity to were able to experience what experience the reality of the the land of the biblical story biblical story leaves many in looks like as well as the path of awe. Jesus. Members also gained a “This is an opportunity to greater appreciation for their enrich my preaching and everyday life in America. empower my leadership in the “When we traveled to Egypt, congregation,” said Japp. “I had I was struck by the difference a great sensation to further in the cultures,” said Japp. “I relate with God and feel a great have a great blessing to live in connection. A religious the United States.” pilgrimage is something that is The group returned in early designed to broaden and deepen February after experiencing the your faith and empower your many wonders of the Holy ministry. I encourage anyone Land. The name Holy Land with the opportunity to go on a stems from the religious religious pilgrimage or a significance that area represents mission trip, because you can for the faith of millions of grow spiritually as a person.” 2 Methodist women receive honors Two nited Methodist ladies were is used in ministries with women, minute for each recipient. s of honored April 1st at the Pawnee children, and youth throughout the 2012, $ 553,834.30 had been do-nated City nited Methodist Women’s world. The recipients are given a through this channel. meeting. etty an el and Shir-ley certificate. t istrict and onfer-ence The Pawnee City Women’s group Spitzer received the Dedicated UMW meetings, those who want to thank these ladies for their Light award for their 55 plus years have been honored that year with years of service.service. of service to the nited Methodist the Dedicated lightlight areare acknowl-acknowl-edged omen’s ssociation. edged and a candle burns for one Betty Ganzel has served on many committees during these years. She has been president, treasurer and chairman of the funeral dinners. She has given a program every year. She has donated food for many dinners, luncheons, etc. She was chairman of the ice cream stand and chairman for other events. Shirley Spitzer has been president, treasurer or secretary for 32 years. She has presented many programs. She has furnished food for events and dinner during these 55 years. She also was Secretary of Student Work and Campus Ministry for several years. The Dedicated Light was inau- nited Methodist omen. It is symbolic of the light of Jesus shin-ing in dark places, bringing joy and hope to those who walk in dark-ness. ifts that are received from individuals and local units continue to support the mission work of our women. The money raised goesgoes to the UMW M National Office and Betty Ganzel and Shirley Spitzer

U U

U Garden grows green thumbs By Bill Stanton cages and likes to plant out-of-the-ordinary Sun staff writer produce like dill or beets. “I like to try something new each The benefits of community gardens season. I am going to try broccoli this go beyond harvesting fresh produce. season,” she said. They are places to meet fellow gar-deners “I have been able to get a high yield and get gardening tips. every year. I think our garden plots do Plots are currently available at the produce a lot.” Schuyler Community Garden, located The Schuyler Community Garden at Christ United Methodist Church, Committee is holding an event May 19 1922 Colfax St., and applications will at the local church to kick off the gar-dening be accepted until Wednesday. season. Sheri Balak is in her third year as There will also be educational ses-sions a member of the Schuyler Commu-nity throughout the gardening season Garden Committee. She said the on different topics. relationships community gardeners The community garden is sponsored develop is just one of the perks of hav-ing by various businesses and organiza-tions a plot. including Christ United Method-ist “There is satisfaction of growing Church, First Presbyterian Church, produce and being able to share that the University of Nebraska-Lincoln with others who are unable to buy or Extension office, city of Schuyler, Proj-ect grow their own,” Balak said. S and Future Farmers of America The committee is made up of com-munity ( FFA). members who have a passion Tom Wheeldon, a vocational agri-culturalagri- for gardening, she said. During her cultural teacher atat Schuyler Central time with the garden, Balak said she High School, helped thethe FFAFFA chapterchapter has done some experimenting, being createcreate the communitycommunity garden. more creative with what andand how sheshe Applications forfor a garden plot areare plants. available atat Bomgaars, QC Supply andand She hashas used homemade tomato the Municipal Building. Logos holds Easter program by Sally Conner The Easter Logos program was held lastweek closing outtheyearfor Logos, until the comingfall. Logos means The Word, and is an after school program for grades kindergarten through 12th held on Wednesday nights. Logos in Valentine was started 15 years ago by a past Pastor Steve Fra-zier of the Presbyterian Church along with directors Anne Quigley, Julie Hoefs, and Martha Miller. It has been very successful and continues to grow nurturing children and adolescents to learn about God, plus crafts, music, and family style dinner. The current Board of Directors is Anne Quigley, Julie Hoefs, Lila O’Keefe and Mark Stoeger. Every participant’s parent or guardian is asked to be a part of the volunteers that work to put Logos together weekly from October-April. Many volunteers have been involved since the inception of Logos. All age levels have Bible study and a sit down family meal, something many families in this busy world have a hard time finding time for. The elementary aged students, kin-dergarten through fifth grade, has an enrollment of 72 children. They meet at the United Methodist Church right after school through meal time at 6: 00 p. m. to 7: 00 p. m. The junior high and high school meet at the Presbyterian Church and have an enrollment of about 70 as well. They meet at 6: 00 p. m. for a meal then go to worship and Bible study. There is program twice year; Photo by Sally Conner a a The kindergarten-fifth grade students share a song with the United Methodist Church. at Christmas and Easter, where the audience is entertained with Scrip-ture readings, high energy music , skits, puppets, and very meaningful choreographed dowel pantomime. All senior students are honored and receive aa Bible to send themthem into thethe world from LogosLogos atat thethe end ofof thethe Easter program. The daughter of Dr. Paul and Angie Madi-son, Anne Madison attended the University of Nebraska-Lincoln following high school, earning a Bachelor of Music. She then received a Master of Music from Baylor. Madison lived for three years in Vienna, Austria, attending the Vienna Conservatory and earning an Artist Diploma, a perform-ance-based degree. Madison currently teaches at the Omaha Conservatory of Music, giving lessons to stu-dents from as young as five years old to one in his 70s. “I enjoy teaching,” Madison said.“I like it when they are engaged with the music no matter what their level. It’s the relationships I have made that are meaningful.” The concert on Sunday is titled“Something Old, Something New” and, in addition to premiering Berkey’s Piano Concerto, will in-clude Dvorak’s Symphony No. 8. The 3 p. m. concert is at St. Paul’s United Methodist Church at 324 S. Jackson Street in Papillion. “Orchestra Omaha is filled with fine musi-cians,” Anne Madison at her parents'parents’ home inin Nebraska City. Madison said.“ They do a free concert series every year so lots of people can experi-ence the music.” pianist Madison said she has spent quite a bit of NC native will be featured time on the concerto in the past few months, noting she usually spends about two hours a Sunday day on the piece. Madison said this last for Omaha Orchestra on week was Spring Break, so she was able to Tammy Partsch Concerto” by Jackson Berkey. Berkey, who dedicate more time to her practice, spending Special to the News-Press was the main keyboard artist for Mannheim up to four hours a day on it. Steamroller for many years, is friends with “The"The longer II play the piece, the more I Nebraska City native Anne Madison will Madison and wrote the concerto for her. love it,"it,” Madison said.“said. "It'sIt’s a joyfuljoyful piece, be the featured pianist at a world premier “A concerto is when you have a solo in-strument full ofof light."light.” event on Sunday in Omaha. with a full orchestra behind it,” Madison will play on Berkey’sBerkey's own nine-footnine- Madison, who graduated from Nebraska Madison said.“ It is a huge gift that Jackson foot Steinway piano that will be moved to City High School in 1990, is appearing with wrote this for me and I want to do a good the church for the concert. The concert is Orchestra Omaha as they present “Piano job."job.” free to the public.public. St. Mark’s offers Disaster Response Training information, contact Gayle St. Mark’s United Method- Schroeder at gschroeder@ ist Church in partnership stmarks.org, Joanne Bell with the Great Plains Confer- at [email protected] or call ence will host Basic Disaster 402-489-8885. Response 101 training for those interested in estab- lishing a Disaster Response Team. Methodists across Kansas and Nebraska are working together to provide trained teams of caring people to respond when disasters occur. The Basic Disaster Response 101 training will be held from 6 to 9 p.m. Monday in Upper Fellowship Hall at St. Mark’s United Methodist Church, 8550 Pioneers Blvd. The training is open to the public, and there is no age limit for the initial training. Hollie Tapley, disaster response coordinator for the Great Plains Conference, will lead the training, addressing how teams can prepare for disasters, how to activate a disaster response plan, the legal issues to be consid- ered and the steps teams need to take. To register for the training or to express interest, sign up online at stmarks. org or visit the ministry desk at St. Mark’s on Sunday mornings. For more Four Nebraska church members continue a bell ringing tradition HASTINGS (AP) For stairs to push or pull on be played in one octave. just a few members of wooden handles to play “When you look at it, First United Methodist the tower bells, the Hast- it’s pretty easy,” she said. Church, climbing a —steep ings Tribune reports. “It’s one octave and you set of stairs every Sunday “You hope you put peo- play one note at a time.” up to a room with no heat- ple in the right frame of To play the bells, the ing or air conditioning is mind for the day,” Carol player pushes down on fulfilling their part of the Kleppinger said of play- a series of wooden han- ministry. ing the bells. dles. Those handles are When the current First Kleppinger has played connected to heavy-gauge United Methodist Church the bells for about seven wires that lead up the tow- building was being built years. Her previous music er to the bells that then at 614 N. Hastings Ave. experience was playing move and chime. in 1915, a unique set of 10 the piano as a child. The bells, which weigh bells were installed in the While it had been de- 14,000 pounds with rig- main belfry of the church. cades since she’d played a ging, were a gift to the And for the last 100 music instrument, Klep- church by William H. years, church members pinger said the bells are Lanning as a memorial to have climbed those steep easier since they can only his mother. Four Nebraska church members continue bell ringing tradition HASTINGS (AP) For just a few Kleppinger has played the bells for to his mother, who had been a lifelong members of First United Methodist about seven years. Her previous music Methodist. Church, climbing a steep set of stairs ev-ery experience was playing the piano for a On each of the bells is cast the follow-ing Sunday up to a room with no heating fewyears as a child. inscription in relief,“ In memory of or air conditioningis fulfilling— their part of While it had been decades since she’d Mary Lanning, 1825-1888.” the ministry. played a music instrument, Kleppinger W. H. Lanning was a Hastings mayor When the current First United Meth-odist said the bells are easier since they can and founder of Mary Lanning Memorial Church building was being built at only be played in one octave. Hospital, which was named in honor of 614 N. Hastings Ave. in 1915, a unique “When you look at it, it’s pretty easy,” his daughter. The hospital opened the set of 10 bells were installed in the main she said. “It’s one octave and you play one same year ground was broken on the belfry of the church. note at a time.” nearby church. And for the last 100 years, church To play the bells, the player pushes In the first year that the bells were members have climbed those steep stairs down on a series of wooden handles. in service, a tower bell specialist was to push or pull on wooden handles to play Those handles are connected to heavy-gauge brought in to trainsomeone at thechurch. the tower bells, the Hastings Tribune wires that lead up the tower to the Today, there are four parishioners who reports. bells that thenmove and chime. are knowledgeable in playing the bells, “You"You hope you put people inin the right The bells, which weigh 14,000 pounds including Kleppinger. The others are frame ofof mind forfor the day,"day,” Carol Klep-pingerKlep- with rigging, were a gift to the church Karyn Nicholson, Connie Halloran and pinger said of playing the bells. by William H. Lanning as a memorial TomMichalek.