$2 May 2010

Season after Youth leaders Easter, and Pentecost want yyoouu to volunteer By Emily Cooper How would you like to be a youth minister, a job that, if you stand still and be quiet for more than three sec - UMC leads onds, you’ve lost your constituency’s in eccumenical attention; where all parties want you to healthcare clinic be perfect and each has a different Page 24 vision of what “perfect” is? Interested? No wonder churches have a hard time finding a youth director. But youth directors list other things as the hardest part of the job. “My personal struggle is communi - A new sancturary cation with parents,” as well as garner - for Cumberland ing parental support, Lauren Taylor, Page 17 director of Student Ministries at First If your church UMC, Isle of Palms. Trying to get them “not to just walk away once their struggles, read children move into youth programs. the story of faith They say today’s communication is and work: quicker and faster, but the right kind of Page 12-13 communications is not happening.” For Ed Stallworth, director of Youth Ministries at Simpsonville UMC, the HIGH ENERGY NEEDED – Lauren Taylor, still wearing her microphone after using up Help for hardest part of the job is “walking a lots of energy as an emcee at Revolution – the conference-wide youth event this winter facing – fought the call to youth work but has loved it once she yielded. (Photo by Emily Cooper ) line between parents and youth. You end-of-life want to be supportive of parents; par - decisions young boys as Barrs does. discover their abilities is great, he said. ents need to recognize ultimately throughout this issue Brandon Taylor, director of Youth “It’s really a fun job.” they’re the youth ministers. Sometimes Ministries at First UMC in Myrtle “Whenever I see the youth stepping parents struggle with their children.” Beach, echos the time issue. “For me, up to be leaders, saying, ‘Hey, I want Stallworth said, “Fortunately, the par - the hardest part is trying to find time to lead the Bible Study this Wednesday ents at Simpsonville UMC are wonder - for myself, my own spiritual growth night,’ it feels as if I’m doing some - ful.” and nourishment; remembering that I thing right and I’m getting a blessing” For Jason Barrs, director of Music have a life, too, that I have family and Barrs said. “For them even to show up, and Youth Ministries at Platt Spring friends. to want to be there, to see the fruits Wofford officially UMC, Columbia, “It’s the time thing” that are growing, that’s very rewarding opening that’s hardest. “You have to devote a “It takes a very special person to for me.” Another of his rewards was environment lot of time to the youth; not only being work with the youth. I find myself having a graduating youth hear a call studies building in the office, but going to their soccer devoting everything I have to this job – to ministry. Page 20 games, cheerleading matches and being therapist, parents, pastor… . You “When I have a moment with a recitals. It’s not just a job here at the have to be prepared and be someone youth, when they tell me God has been church.” It’s being where the youth are, who is flexible and will work a lot of working in their lives, or how God has - even if you have a family and two weird hours,” Brandon Taylor said. Lauren Taylor n’t but they’re trusting me enough to agrees, the work is rela - talk to me about it,” that is a rich time tional. “If you’re not in for Lauren Taylor. Being able to share the kids’ lives, in their in their youthful years is special, she sporting events, said. She spends half her time on youth recitals,” it’s not work - and half on children’s ministries. ing. “My type of min - “There are a number of ‘best parts,’” istry is being right there to the job, said Brandon Taylor. “My being with them.” favorite moment is getting to see the wheels start turning. Once you build What is the best part? those relationships and they are realiz - “The kids!” said ing what it means to be a young Stallworth. On a mis - WITH IT – Youth react to music at Revolution this winter. sion trip, seeing them See Page 2

4 Opinion 15-20 District News 20 Obituaries Issue Index: 5 Commentary 18 Classifieds 22 IBS Lessons Page 2, May 2010 The South Carolina United Methodist Advocate Leaders take strength from each other ... From Page 1 sustaining poverty in the world. With Christian, they finally get what we’re trying to each B-1 event, “they learn about the share with them, it’s a beautiful thing.” culture for which we’re fasting,” Taylor Another “best part” is his relationship with a said. predominately white church. “It took a little get - • Mission trips: First UMC youth ting used to,” the African-American said. The from Isle of Palms are raising money to result? “Phenomenal.” go to the Dominican Republic this sum - mer with UMVIM. Who led you to become a youth director? • “We do extensive mission work,” With a father, grandfathers and, now, uncles in Stallworth said. Salkehatchie, a middle- the ministry, “I fought being in ministries for school mission trip this year to some time after college,” Lauren Taylor said. She Washington, D.C. is set, and the high- studied Spanish and international business, and, school students will go to Chicago. Last after graduation, worked in Austin, Texas, until year, they went to Kentucky and Crowe she had a significant calling at about 24 or 25. Creek, S.D. The foundation was from my youth minister that This year, they’re working with the my father hired. His leading and the group’s par - homeless. It’s really important that kids ticipation in conference events set up the frame - are involved with social justice issues. work. “He made us each feel really important. “We talk about poverty extensively,” “You can only fight God so long, before you said Stallworth, who has a a masters of say, ‘OK, God you’ve won,” Taylor said. Once divinity from Baptist Theological the decision was made, she knew she wanted to Seminary in Richmond, Va., and became come back and be in ministry in South Carolina. a Christian as a teenager, having partly REACHING OUT TO ADULTS, TOO – Brandon Taylor (right) Taylor had envisioned working for the State grown up Buddhist. and sixth-grader Miller Long share their musical talents with the Department, but her schooling comes in handy congregation of First UMC, Myrtle Beach, during the 2010 Youth Last year they talked about plights of Sunday Program. (Photo special to the Advocate ) when they go on mission trips. One day she Native Americans and then met with would like to get a master’s degree in Christian people who are trying to help them. Once you find them, you have to have training education at Pfeiffer University. • “Serving the church,” is another thing that’s for them. Barrs, from a Baptist background with Aside from the classroom, youth directors find highly popular, Lauren Taylor said. The youth talent in trumpet and choirs, said Platt Springs strength in district or conference-wide gatherings put on a Halloween carnival for the kids at the SPRC “realized I didn’t have the training and of their peers. Taylor cited the National Youth church, for example. gave me a lot of resources. I went to the National Workers Convention this year in Nashville. Last • “ Super Saturdays” take place one Saturday a Youth Workers Convention in Atlanta last year. year, about 30 S.C. youth ministers or directors month at Platt Spring UMC. “We do service in That was the greatest thing! I’m so thankful they went to the Atlanta convention. An ecumenical the community,” Barrs said. “We went to Finlay saw that need.” He is also taking advantage of gathering, it has the approval of the UMC and Park and handed out bag lunches; we like going the pastor’s new-member classes to learn more attracts about 4,000 youth leaders. to laundromats and feeding machines with quar - about the United Methodist Church. Brandon Taylor grew up in Wesley UMC, ters for people or taking buggies inside at a gro - Stallworth said it’s a matter of having a pro - Columbia, and conference youth programs. He cery store; or cleaning the windshields in a park - gram that reaches all the kids, and, when the did youth ministry at Clover and was involved ing lot and leaving a card on them.” They did relationship is right, asking, “Have you ever with Wesley Foundation at Winthrop. “You work yard work during the conference youth program, thought about going youth ministry?” weird hours,” he said, and his first ministry Revolution. “We’re trying to get out into the Brandon Taylor hopes to inspire youth to enter burned him out in about 15 months, so he put his community and do random acts of kindness, youth ministry as a vocation by his example. broadcast journalism major to work in television going the extra mile for Christ.” When a youth told him she was thinking of for two years. “It takes a very special person to going into youth ministry, he referred her the work with youth. I find myself devoting every - How to cultivate more youth directors? Lake Junaluska summer program. “It’s a great thing I have to this job.” You have to be prepared The Episcopal Church offers a year’s intern - springboard. You get the full experience.” A lot and yet be someone who is flexible, Taylor said. ship for high school graduates to spend with of people are afraid of such a job, he said, but youth ministers and a stipend of about $13,000, adding to his comfort level is a good friend at a Things that work – Lauren Taylor said. Some wish the S.C. confer - nearby church with whom he shares youth events • “Breakfast with Brandon” is a prayer group ence had something for youth ministers, such as and more. “He’s an older man but able to relate. one morning a week at First UMC, Myrtle the Duke Divinity’s Field Education program or You have to be young at heart and willing to lis - Beach– drawing about 30 junior-high kids on the Board of Ordained Ministries internships. ten” to youth. Tuesdays and a similar number of high school Taylor is pleased to see Bishop Mary Virginia June Willson and CCYM led Taylor into his youth on Wednesdays. It has become another Taylor’s interest in youth min - work. He worked at Lake Junaluska, knowing he outreach ministry because the church’s buses, istry and Revolution. wanted to be in the ministry, but eventually ran labeled as such, are seen dropping off the kids at Youth ministers are not at from his calling. He hopes to go back to get a school two days a week. Annual Conference; neither Christian education degree at Pfeiffer University • “Taylor Time” is an evening or day when are many people younger than or Columbia College. Taylor goes into the youth’s homes to share a 50 for that matter. meal. He goes over the youth calendar with par - “They are not going to be Wishes ents and has an opportunity to talk with parents ED STALLWORTH y o u r l a i t y v o t e d to attend “More volunteers,” is the wish for First UMC. and youth in their own environment. At Simpsonville Annual Conference,” Taylor Lauren Taylor wishes the retired folks there “Foundations need to begin at the home,” said. “That voice is not heard. We need to “could see how much fun it is to work with the Brandon Taylor said. “You can tell a lot from become stronger as youth ministers.” youth.” Two women, 60 or older, she said, work being a guest in homes . Churches need to provide more stability in the faithfully with youth every week. She would like Taylor has a unique problem: “There’s so youth ministry, Stallworth suggested. One big more. much to do here,” it creates a lot of competition issue is that “youth ministers are underpaid and Finding resources that are right without a lot for Myrtle Beach youth’s time. tend to be more transient. This church under - of expense, would be her second wish. • A weeknight get-together for a church that’s stands that and has worked to avoid it.” Barrs agreed: “Volunteers” – adults who not a destination is a “whoever can come” meal Barrs believes the church needs to more inten - would come to youth gatherings and just help with the youth of First UMC. tional about developing volunteers for the youth with games or interact in activities. “Establishing • Much as they love to eat, Lauren Taylor’s program. “I think the people are here.” When a youth council has really helped with the plan - youth love fasting. Yes, fasting. people are brought into the church, the church ning and trying to instill ownership within the First UMC youth take part in the B-1, 24-hour needs to find a place for them to serve, he said. youth and adult leadership. He values the train - youth events that raise money to empower the Some volunteers will have a heart for youth ing opportunities such as the one held in April at poor and take away power from unjust systems work. See Page 3 The South Carolina United Methodist Advocate May 2010, Page 3 Teague: District councils proposed instead of boards By the Rev. Willie Teague, director been the primary means by which NEW PARADIGM: Conference Connectional Ministries this has been accomplished. They The Conference Council on have assisted nearly 75 percent of Connectional Ministries is opti - our congregations. Our specialists mistic about the progress that has have been trained in Natural Church trict a District Council OLD PARADIGM: been made as we work to realize the Development, coaching and conflict of Connectional vision, purpose and process set for mediation. Ministries organized us by the 2007 annual conference. Our next step in the process of into four ministry areas Our vision is to become a church of focusing on equipping and connect - of 6 to 10 members diverse congregations called, united ing congregations for ministry is to each: discipleship, and sent by Jesus. And, according to change the organizational structure advocacy, outreach, and The Book of Discipline, our purpose of Connectional Ministries in order lay leadership. The is “to make disciples for Jesus to more efficiently fulfill our vision members will be named Christ by equipping its local church - and purpose. As a result of focusing by the district superin - es for ministry and by providing a on this for the past year, we have tendent , district congregational spe - more than two quadrennia, after connection for ministry beyond the come to several conclusions: the cialist and the district lay leader. which they shall be ineligible to local church, all to the glory of shift in staff structure is working The congregational specialist in serve on a ministry area for a qua - God.” well, district level events are more consultation with the district super - drennium. And further, The 2007 Annual Conference effective than annual conference intendent will give oversight to the 3. That the implementation will approved the following process to events, the closer to the local church DCCM. Local church needs are to take two years. The DCCMs will be reach our vision and fulfill our pur - assistance is offered the better the be addressed at the district level and established to begin their ministry pose: response, and some conference those that cannot be addressed there during the 2010/11 Annual – Commit to focus exclusively events and programs are helpful, for are to be passed on to the Conference year. During the year a on realizing our vision and fulfilling example: youth events, Conference Council of Connectional transition team will be established the purpose of the conference; Salkehatchie, UMVIM, UMW, Ministries . Funding will be a por - by the current CCCM in order to – identify the needs of congrega - Epworth. Thus the new structure tion of the conference Connectional prepare for the establishment of the tions, districts and the conference in reflects our attempt to be as respon - Ministries budget. And further, newly structured CCCM at the 2011 realizing our vision and purpose; sive to the needs of local churches 2. That there will be a Annual Conference. They will work – mobilize all resources of the as possible. Conference Council of Connectional with the Committee on Standing conference to equip congregations We propose a structure that Ministries organized into four min - Rules to present all changes to the to make disciples; strengthens our equipping and con - istry areas of 24 to 30 members standing rules necessary to facilitate – develop a structure that is based necting ministry at the district level each: discipleship, advocacy, out - the establishment of the newly on the needs of congregations and and more narrowly focuses our min - reach, lay leadership. Membership organized Conference Council of the conference; the structure must istry at the annual conference level. shall consist of two persons from Connectional Ministries. be fluid enough to meet the chang - This is to be accomplished by district councils of Connectional ing needs of the congregations and establishing in each district a Ministries by the district council in the conference; and District Council of Connectional consultation with the district super - The new structure is an attempt – provide a conference staff that Ministries and changing the struc - intendent, congregational specialist, not only to more effectively respond will focus on equipping and con - ture of the Conference Council of and district lay leader . Each CCCM to local church needs, but also to necting congregations for ministry. Connectional Ministries. We there - ministry area may add to its mem - facilitate better communication Significant progress has been fore offer the following: bership up to six additional mem - among local churches, districts, the made in our efforts to shift the A Resolution to Restructure bers to ensure inclusiveness. The annual conference and the general emphasis from programming to Connectional Ministries at the Conference Council on church. Our hope is that as a result equipping and connecting local Conference and District Levels Connectional Ministries shall we will have a more effective churches for ministry. Resolved , receive from the district councils of church at every level and a stronger Congregational Specialists have 1. That there will be in each dis - Connectional Ministries those local connection. church concerns that cannot be met I am sure that some of you have at the district level . The CCCM questions about our proposal. If so, Ageism is rampant in the field ... shall address annual conference and I encourage you to e-mail From Page 2 He cited Frank Smith, in his 60s general conference concerns and (wsteague@umcsc). I will make Buncombe Street UMC, Greenville. and a youth minister at First Baptist shall be responsible to establish every effort to respond to your con - Barrs began at Midlands Tech in Greenville. “He does amazing strong connections among local cerns either by e-mail or during our following his dream of teaching work.” Another man in his 70s does churches, districts, the annual con - presentation at the pre-conference high-school history. School got put amazing work and has graduated the ference and the general church. training events and our presentation on the back-burner with marriage kids of some of his earlier youth. Persons may serve for one but no at Annual Conference. and a family, but he promised his What they bring to the table, wife he would go back – but now, Stallworth said, is experience; perhaps, with a course aimed they’re better at it and more pre - toward church work. pared. “More resources (money),” He found himself at one point (ISSN 1078-8166) continues the Southern Christian Stallworth said, quickly adding, leading “18-year-old girls older than Publisher The S.C. United Methodist Advocate Trustees Advocate, authorized by the General Conference of “but this church really supports my wife,” the 37-year-old noted, Marilyn Murphy, chairperson; 1836. Publication began July 24, 1837. which makes it “more of a peer Angela Nelson, vice chairperson; me.” Brandon Taylor wishes for the Rev. Steven King, secretary; The paper is published monthly by more parental involvement. “Parents relationship.” It’s not an age issue. Matt Holycross, treasurer; the S.C. United Methodist Advocate Trustees Richard Baines; Robert Bentley; at 4908 Colonial Drive, Suite 207, Columbia, SC are under the impression they can It’s just about ministry, helping kids the Rev. Robin Dease; Carmen Faulkner; 29203. the Rev. Jerry Gadsden; the Rev. Keith Hunter; www.scadvocate-online.org drop them off and pick them up and grow in their faith. Coaches say, Gladys Lemon; Rev. Dean Lollis; ‘you’re only as good as the players the Rev. Evelyn Middleton; the Rev. Rodney Powell; The individual subscription rate is $15 annually. that’s it. It’s hard to find good vol - and Diane Wilson Renewals are $13. know how much you care.’” For information about church plan rates, unteer leaders because everyone is please call (803) 786-9486 or (888) 678-6272. Editors emeritus so busy.” “One of my rules is I control the J. Claude Evans, M. Eugene Mullikin, radio; they listen to my music Maryneal Jones, We cannot be responsible for unsolicited manu - Stallworth also wishes churches Willie S. Teague, Allison Askins, scripts. Please direct all inquiries regarding commen - Karl F. Davie Burgdorf tary submissions to: would “recognize that youth min - (Bach), too,” the 37-year-old said. the editor, 4908 Colonial Drive, Suite 207, Columbia, SC 29203-6070. istry is an adult job, not for fresh- “I just need to create avenues for Editor: Emily L. Cooper [email protected] (803) 786-9486/FAX (803) 735-8168 Periodicals postage paid at Columbia, S.C. out-of-college kids. Age discrimi - empowering them to be ministers Advertising/Circulation/Assistant Editor: themselves. They make fun of me Allison K. Trussell Postmaster: Send address changes to: nation is rampant. “They want [email protected] The South Carolina United Methodist Advocate , young. I understand why, but I don’t with my antiquated tastes sometime, 4908 Colonial Drive, Suite 207, Columbia, SC 29203 The South Carolina United Methodist Advocate May 2010 • Volume 174 • No. 5 agree with it.” but they know I love them .” Page 4, May 2010 The South Carolina United Methodist Advocate

VIEWPOINT COMMENTARY

Emily L. Cooper, Editor Air alert sounded Write a check by United Methodist By Anne Sinclair So how can we avoid non-attain - for tenderness at Epworth (Editor’s Note: The following article first ment and improve the quality of the appeared in The State newspaper and was air we breathe? It’s the month of Mother’s Day. Many of us are blessed to remember written for a Midlands audience but has tender, open arms of loving protection when we celebrate this day. First, we need to think like a applications for all South Carolinians and, region; smog does not follow arbi - That’s not always so. particularly, for United Methodists who are There were two children and a single mother who came to College challenged as God’s people to be caretakers trary government boundaries. Local Place United Methodist Church with some regularity. When the mother of the Earth and of our brothers and sisters governments have been exploring the health as well as our own.) would get overwhelmed with her addiction or depression, Wiley and I possibility of developing a regional would bring the little girls, ages 4 and 11, home for a weekend or what - sustainability plan. We need to bring ever. The family we knew of was in New York. The girls had an older The Midlands is on the verge of the county and municipal govern - brother in prison there. There were some signs of the possibility of facing federal sanctions because of ments, special purpose districts, envi - abuse from the mother’s boyfriends or perhaps a family member along the quality of our air. Columbia and ronmental groups, businesses and the way. They were smart and receptive to our love. Richland and Lexington counties will other stakeholders together to develop As we saw the problems grow deeper, I prayed, “Lord, at this age, I have to work together to clean up the this regional plan. While there have really don’t want to get up early (I was retired then) and take two chil - smog or face restrictions that could been discussions about such a plan dren to school for the next 13 years – but whatever you ask, I’ll do.” affect expanding industries and for almost a year, only Columbia has The mother agreed to go into addiction treatment and the girls were motorists across the state. passed a resolution endorsing the to spend their mother’s time away at Epworth Children’s Home. The Cleaning our air won’t just keep us idea. girls spent the night before with us so the mother could pack. The old - out of trouble; it also will reduce Secondly, we need to drive less and est girl went into the house the next day to find the mother had taken health care costs, particularly for chil - drive smarter. About half of our air her own life with drugs. Epworth Children’s Home took them in for dren and seniors. Smog, which forms pollution is produced from our cars, almost a year until an aunt in another state brought them into her home. when ground-level ozone mixes with trucks and off-road vehicles. A friend from the Upstate called. Her grandchildren were suffering heat and sunlight, is a particular prob - Maintaining our cars, walking, riding because of their mother’s addiction and the grandmother wasn’t able to lem for us during our hot summer bicycles, reducing idling and combin - care for them permanently. Epworth Children’s Home took them in. days. In addition to making it difficult ing trips all help to reduce the amount “In 1958, I was an 8-year-old boy in need, the product of a broken to breathe, smog damages trees and of smog we each create. Other strate - home,” said Gordon Jones, an alumnus of Epworth Children’s Home. plants. gies include using public transporta - “God had prepared a ‘place’ for me. It became heaven on earth. From The threat of non-attainment tion, carpooling and utilizing hybrid the time I arrived on campus, until I graduated from high school, my should not be a surprise for our and alternative fuel vehicles. spiritual, emotional and physical needs were met. People still call that region; the Environmental Protection We also can plant more trees and ‘place’ Epworth Children’s Home. I am confident and thankful that Agency and the Department of Health preserve the ones we have. In addi - God prepared a place for me at Epworth and is preparing a place for and Environmental Control have been tion to providing beauty and much- me in heaven.” giving us this message for years. EPA needed shade, trees clean our air. As with Gordon Jones, Epworth Children’s Home will always have a routinely evaluates the allowable Mature trees absorb roughly 48 tender place in our hearts. level of ozone, and the restrictions pounds of carbon dioxide a year and Twenty-four-hour care, food, shelter, recreation, spiritual and emo - have become tighter over the years. return oxygen into the air. tional guidance is available because you give through Epworth’s bi- Under proposed new rules, the Governments and environmental annual appeal, one of which is May 9. The home, which serves children Columbia area will no longer comply groups working together can increase from every S.C. county, counsels families and makes every effort to with the EPA guidelines. our tree canopy. restore families to levels that makes it possible for children to return. The implications of non-attainment Reducing energy use at home and Epworth is trying to get to the place it can restore to its budget the for ground-level ozone are huge and at work saves money at the same time Epworth Early Intervention Center, which cares for special needs chil - will cost all of us. It will subject us to it improves air quality. Conduct an dren and readies them for school. All this gets down to an average of many new rules and regulations, energy audit of your home and your $6 per member of each church in the conference. I hope you will join which could remain in place long business, and implement the recom - me in writing a check May 9 in honor of and thanksgiving for the after we return to air quality compli - mendations. Purchasing energy-effi - parental tenderness so many of us have enjoyed as children. ance, impacting energy bills, the cre - cient appliances and light bulbs, insu - (And their alumni barbecue is delicious, too!) ation of new businesses and much- lating buildings and maintaining ther - needed transportation projects. mostats at 68 degrees in the winter Non-attainment would require us to and 78 degrees in the summer are cede local control of transportation simple approaches we can all use. Letters projects to state and federal oversight, The city of Columbia has established creating longer construction times green building incentives for both We welcome letters to the editor. In focus groups conducted on behalf of and higher construction costs. new construction and renovations to the Board of Trustees, Advocate readers said they wanted shorter, to- the-point letters and commentary. Succinct writing often produces clarity Economic development could be encourage sustainable practices. and better writing. Thus letters to the editor are to be no more than 225 slowed greatly, as our businesses are While all of these are simple steps, words . Commentary will run from a maximum of 600 to 950 words, as subject to much harsher oversight. implementing them will make a big judged by the editor according to the interest and points made. All letters Younger professionals – those in the difference in our air quality. We all and commentary are subject to editing as needed to meet standards of “creative class” we have sought for need to do our part to clean the air grammar, space and interest. Inappropriate language or personal attacks years to live in the Midlands – will that children and adults breathe. will be struck. Letters should be sent to: naturally think twice before moving The Advocate their family to an area with poor air (Ann Sinclair, a former member of the 4908 Colonial Drive, Suite 207 quality. Columbia City Council, chairs the Columbia Columbia, SC 29203-6070 For three years, the city of Climate Protection Action Campaign and is a FAX (803) 735-8168 Columbia and its Climate Protection member of Washington Street UMC and its You may also e-mail letters to: Action Campaign have been educat - Green Team. Photo courtesy of The Star ) [email protected] ing our residents through green busi - “Out Of This World” Vacation Bible School JUNE DEADLINE: MAY 12 ness conferences and a wide variety mission project is available free to all church - CONFERENCE/JULY: JUNE 1 of avenues. But now it’s the fourth es from the Society of St. Andrew, Advance All letters will be verified so you must include a name, daytime quarter, the clock is ticking, and we #801600 national hunger relief ministry. phone number,church membership and hometown. Order: www.endhunger.org/vbs.htm; or call have one last chance to score before 800-333-4597; or email church@endhunger. the game is over. org The South Carolina United Methodist Advocate May 2010, Page 5

A Modest Proposal

By Michael Henderson truth, humility, generosity, integrity, forgiveness, base your values on,” I said. “Perhaps basing “Sit down, boy, I’ve got respect.” them on God’s love shown in the life of Jesus is something to ask you,” John “Okay, those are all good, but what makes what makes them Christian. Others may have the Dee said as I walked into the them Christian?” same or similar values based on something else.” coffee shop. “What do you mean?” I asked. “So does that make Christian values better or John Dee, good to see “Why do you say those are Christian? Can any different from non-Christian values?” he you,” I said as I slipped into people who are not Christians have the same val - asked. It was apparent that John Dee had some the booth. “What’s on your ues?” other question behind all this. So I asked him, mind?” “Of course, they can,” I said. “What’s all this coming from?” “Values,” he said. “So what makes these values Christian? And “I went to a community meeting the other day. “I’m always looking for them. Can’t pass up a what happens if Christians don’t hold these val - We were talking about some housing that was good buy,” I said. ues? Seems to me, these days, a lot of Christians being proposed for low-income families. Some “Not that kind! I’m talking about morals, have the same values as the world around them.” very vocal people stood up to talk against it ideals, things we hold high,” he said. “What do you mean?” I asked again. because they said they wanted to preserve “We still try to buy those,” I said. “Usually as “A lot of the world seems to say that bigger is Christian values in our community. I just won - cheap as we can.” better and if your group is larger than another, dered what those values might be. When I asked, The waitress walked over and asked if we’d then that is proof that you are right, or at least, they said that the housing would lower the value like coffee. more right.” of other housing and that they were worried that “Do you have Alta Mogiana? It’s from Brazil,” “Give me an example,” I said. the quality of the schools would drop. I tried to John Dee said. “Okay. We think larger churches are better figure out what Christian values they were talk - “It’s the only kind we serve,” the waitress than smaller ones because they are more ‘suc - ing about, but couldn’t quite get it.” answered. cessful.’ We think larger youth groups are better We sat for a minute, sipping our Alta “Good. Bring us two cups,” he said. “Now, than smaller ones because they are attracting Mogiana. Finally he said, “Greed isn’t a where was I?” more kids. We think richer people are better than Christian value, is it?” “Values,” I said. “And ordering strange coffee. poorer ones because they obviously have been “Nope,” I said. “But some of us sure can be What kind of value is that?” blessed by God,” John Dee said. greedy.” “Trying something new is a value to me,” he “Well, I’m not sure about all that, especially “Guess I’ll give you the chance to practice said. “So my question is, is there such a thing as the last,” I said. But I do understand what you generosity. You pay for the coffee. I’ve got to Christian values?” are saying.” go.” “Yes, I think there is,” I said. “And there are lots of people who are not He walked out and I paid the bill. “So what are they, or what is it?” Christians who hold high generosity, truth, “Well – ” I paused to think a moment, “per - integrity, forgiveness, etc,” he said. (Michael B. Henderson got his head shaved in Cayce for haps things such as sacrifice for the greater good, “I think the difference comes from what you the benefit of Cayce UMC’s Relay for Life event .) Letters to the Editor

‘Social justice means socialism’ prey to the current low standards of what passes Partnerships.) for truth when commenting on other people or The Rev. Michael Henderson took Glenn Beck Retiree insurance options unfair out of context. If he watched his shows, he events. would have known that in today’s world, social My apology to Rev. Henderson if he did I read with deep disappointment the recent justice means socialism and Beck did make that indeed watch the program; if he did, maybe you Advocate article dealing with three options for point. Beck is a very religious person and he did - could ask him to make the case why he sees no the funding of retirees’ health benefits, labeled in n’t deserve to be mocked that way. difference between the economic theories of the article as “unfunded liability.” Neither of the Nelva Malcom Marx and Engels, and Jesus, Billy Graham, three options as presented would be fair to Member, St. John UMC, Sumter Jeremiah, Moses, etc., teachings on the ‘compas - sion’ we are to show for ‘widows and orphans.” retirees, present or future. Jim Wallis is another case. He has expressed There should be no doubt among Christians Challenge to language of the church his views on ‘social justice” if anyone cares to that charity toward others must first begin at home. As the church, only after we have ade - I was disappointed to read the comments, look them up.* quately provided for the needs of our family (fel - however tongue-in-cheek the style, from the pas - Frank Fussell low church members, pastors and staff and local tor, Michael Henderson. It was obvious, to any - Member, Trinity UMC congregations) can we then begin to provide for one who watched Glenn Beck, that the Rev. Mr. North Myrtle Beach other needs such as regional ministries, national Henderson did not watch the show he attempted and foreign missions and the like. If our charity to “critique.” In so doing, he may be “bearing * Jim Wallis writes in a column: “Glenn Beck at home is lacking, then we are not spiritually or false witness” against his neighbor by hear-say has picked a fight with me, but he recently start - morally equipped to engage in other ministries. and innuendo. ed a more troubling battle with the nation’s The comment by Mr. Redmond, that business - Mr. Beck spent the first half hour of his show churches with his criticism that ‘social justice’ is es in general don’t offer retirees health insurance, explaining how the ‘progressive” wings of both ‘code’ for ‘communism’ and ‘Nazism,’ and that may say more about what CF&A is doing wrong political parties had begun to “co-opt” the lan - Christians should leave their churches if they than anything else. Our Lord and Master’s busi - guage of the Church, in order to enact and sell preach, practice or even have the phrase on their ness is not about trying to copy what corpora - their political points of view; hence, the use of Web site . tions and businesses in general say or practice. the phrase, “Social Justice.” “… While the term has sometimes been used His business is about taking care of his sheep, his Mr. Beck’s purpose was simply to point out to support ideologies of the left and right, social little ones, even those who are aged and infirmed the obvious: that the political/economic, Marxian justice is in fact a personal commitment to serve after years of service in his field. definition of “Social Justice,” ie. the forced redis - the poor and to attack the conditions that lead to I would suggest our church look elsewhere to tribution of income, is not the moral equivalent poverty. These are some of the most passionate make budget reductions and cuts. A good place of Jesus’ command to “care for widows and beliefs of a younger generation of Christians and to start would be beyond the local church and orphans.” His admonition, “to run from the one of their most compelling attractions to Jesus conference. I feel certain there are quite a few church” whose pastor preaches the former, is a Christ. fully funded liabilities to be found out there. no-brainer. (Jim Wallis, a preacher and editor in chief of Sojourners magazine, served on the White House The Rev. Charles Jennings We Christians, of all people, should not fall Advisory Council on Faith-Based and Neighborhood Retired, Myrtle Beach Page 6, May 2010 The South Carolina United Methodist Advocate Herman Lightsey is first S.C. Men’s Ministry Specialist By Julia Rogers Hook “I’m more or less a conduit to men’s ministry When Herman Lightsey and his wife, Mary, in the church,” he said. “A specialist is a person accepted an invitation from their neighbors to who helps gets men’s groups started and recog - attend a Methodist church service one Sunday in nizes the men in the church at all levels of serv - 1972, he had no idea that it would lead him ice, from the minister to the usher.” down a path to becoming a major leader of disci - The mission statement for a specialist is that pleship within the church. they are “to serve United Methodist lay and cler - “Mary was a Lutheran and I was Baptist when gy leaders and their congregations in the ministry we married,” Lightsey said. “I knew our faith of Jesus Christ through men.” was a topic that had to be addressed, but before it Lightsey said the specialist program has end - even came up for discussion, God placed us next less potential for building up the church. door to this Methodist family. We were new to “I’m excited about what I hope it will do on the area so they asked us to go to their church the national level,” he said. “This is something with them. We did, and the rest is history.” The that Christ is in the middle of. It’s not a ‘club,’ Lightseys became Methodists and raised their and we want to get the local churches to take two daughters as Methodists as well. advantage of our educational resources.” But that’s not all the history. Betty Void, the Columbia District United On March 5, Lightsey became the first certi - GIVEN THE COMMISSION – Wearing his “Reaching Methodist Women president said Lightsey is an fied Men’s Ministry Specialist in South Carolina Every Man” shirt, Herman Lightsey (left) is congratu - excellent choice as the state’s first specialist. lated by Gil Hanke, newly installed general secretary and one of 16 in the national United Methodist of the General Commission on United Methodist “He has always been very involved in the Church. He was sworn in by the General Men. (Photo special to the Advocate) UMM events,” she said. “He has a genuine love Commission on United Methodist Men during a for mentoring the men and a humbling spirit that commissioning ceremony in Nashville. plete and several intensive papers had to be writ - you can feel when he walks into a room.” Lightsey said the ultimate goal is to attract 75 ten and reviewed by district, state and national Lightsey said that he believes getting the men men interested in becoming a specialist by 2012. officers. His wife and his pastor had to agree to back into the church will bring the women and “It’s a long process and it’s not for everyone,” support him in the endeavor. children back as well. Lightsey said. “But for those who feel a calling Because he is so active in his home church, he “If we can get the men interested, they will to the church, it’s a wonderful thing.” said his wife probably wouldn’t mind his new bring their families and the individual churches Lightsey’s pastor, the Rev. Joel Jones, role. “I think Mary just assumed it was one more will grow.” approached him about becoming a specialist in duty I was taking on for the church,” he laughed. He said that there are different ways to involve 2007. He was already active in his church, “But she is behind me all the way.” men and get them interested in becoming a Ashland UMC in Columbia, he said. Lightsey also conducts workshops for men, is church member. “I taught Sunday School and I was already a a certified lay speaker and represents the United “You can’t take a man who has never gone to certified lay speaker and had gone on many of Methodist Men on the District Council on a formal church and ask him to lead the choir or the retreats, taken a lot of the mentoring courses Ministries. Lightsey is employed in the work - be a lay speaker,” he said. “But you can invite and participated in various workshops. All of that man’s compensation industry, but said he is him to be on the church softball team and let him is part of the process of becoming a specialist,” ready to embrace this new endeavor. meet the other members that way. We want to Lightsey said. By definition, a specialist is the overall take them from whatever point they are at in As well as mandatory participation in his resource for men’s ministry within the Methodist their faith and bring them to a closer walk with church, there were online courses he had to com - church, Lightsey said. Jesus.” To Your Health

By the Rev. Sandra King their children, they need an accountant or an wrist or necklace emergency call system. Anyone According to Scott Middleton, CEO of Agape’ attorney who will be responsible for paying bills at any time can fall, but those over 65 will take Senior there are nine conversations that we will and assuring the resources for their care. Nursing longer to recover. Recovery is quicker if the per - inevitably have with our parents (or our children homes cost around $200 per day; home care son is found in a relatively short period of time. will have with us) that need to begin sooner costs more, Middleton said. It may depend on the Dietary issues: Talk to your parent about what rather than later when considering the effects of circumstances. they had for lunch or supper. Check the refrigera - aging. Health Insurance: You should be aware of tor whenever you get a chance. Clean out the He shares these with us and will elaborate at health insurance coverage including Medicare refrigerator once a week, casually making a list church meetings when asked to speak. You may Part A, B, C and D. Many seniors have not yet of things to replace and throwing our any food contact him at 803 454-0365. signed up for Part D for pharmacy and can save that would cause harm. Make sure the kitchen is Driving: There will come a time when driv - thousands each year by adding Part D to their clean and that there are supplies available, well ing is no longer safe. Begin now to discuss trans - coverage. Have they signed up for a Medicare marked, and that the senior is using good meal portation needs and how you will handle them, HMO, which can increase out-of-pocket expens - preparation techniques. including the fact that there will come a time es? Remember that Medicare does not pay for What happens when it happens in your when you will have to say, “No, you cannot long-term care. family? The night will come. You will get a call drive anymore.” Having that conversation Medication: Someone should be aware of all from your parent, sibling, or friend of the family. before it actually happens will make it easier medications that a senior takes. It is important to Your mother or father has fallen and is being (notice I didn’t say easy) when the time comes. have the conversation with your parents about transported to the hospital. What do you do? You Living arrangements: “Promise me you will over-the-counter and prescription drugs they are get out of bed and go to the hospital, or if you never put me in one of those homes” is common - taking. Have them add you to the list of people live too far away you call someone to go to the ly heard, but don’t make promises you can’t who can talk with the pharmacist about their hospital to be with your parent. Do not leave old keep. Parents do not think about the fact that medications, and have your loved one keep an people at the hospital alone. Even if their spouse they are asking you to give up your life to coor - updated list of medicines in their wallet/purse. is still living, that spouse will need the support. dinate their household. The time may come when Physicians: Most seniors have several “olo - Decisions will have to be made and someone you have to say, “It is time to move; I can no gists” - cardiologists, rheumatologists, oncolo - needs to have a clear head and be ready to make longer care for you at home.” You may feel gists, etc. Many do not have a primary care doc - decisions. You may have just become the parent guilty, but remember that you are doing what is tor. Make sure Mom or Dad is seeing a physician for your own parent! But that is part of the best for your loved one and for your family. who has experience working with the senior pop - responsibility – to step in and help make the Financial situation: Someone must know the ulation. tough decisions. financial situation of your parents. If they do not Personal Emergency Device : No one living King serves as associate minister at St. John’s United feel comfortable sharing the information with alone over the age of 65 should be without a Methodist Church in Rock Hill. She is a registered nurse with master’s degree in health nursing. The South Carolina United Methodist Advocate May 2010, Page 7 Two books on senior life A review by June Willson our bodies to stop aging at 21 even though we continue to age in Living with Purpose in a Worn-Out Body: Spiritual Encouragement for years. But He didn’t design us that Older Adults (Upper Room Books 2008) way. There must be a very good rea - Talking with God in Old Age: son,” Buchanan tells people. “It Meditations and Psalms (Upper Room helps them to remember that physi - Books 2010) cal aging has a divine purpose.” “Seniors living in nursing homes, Much insight is given to the aging assisted living centers or retirement process and to thoughts of the older centers see themselves in a spiritual - persons. We can gain knowledge ly barren land – disconnected from about the thoughts and actions of family, friends, the church and older persons and we will be able to (sometimes) even God. Because it’s respond in effective ways to the so hard to see the losses of aging, needs and issues confronting older we tend to neglect the aged, who persons. remain souls in need,” said an author Aging is a wonderful process, as who recently spoke in South Buchanan says, in “the winter of my Carolina. life.” As a recent caregiver, I find “We’re all failing in our ministry that all aspects of an older person’s with senior adults.” life are addressed from “Slow In her two books, “Living with Motion” to “Mail” to “Clutter” to Purpose in a Worn-Out Body” and “Just here” to ”Gift of Long Life” to “Talking with God in Old Age,” “Shadow of Death” to “Doubts. “ author Missy Buchanan has given us As we age, all of us experience much to think about after speaking frailty. Buchanan gives us a sense of to more than a 100 members and where the thinking of the older per - guests at Bethany UMC in son is at this time in their lives. She Summerville. shares her journey as a caregiver and These meditations with Scripture as a friend to older adults. give each of us an honest and inspir - At a Jackson, Tenn., church, stu - ing look at our own aging and the dents saw both young and older aging of others. The books are a folks struggle with many of the same clear message of faith, love and issues with acceptance and finding grace. Buchanan has given us truth, their place. “They have been a start - beauty and goodness. The truth has ing point for us to develop with been her experience in each part of great intentionality a process to blur an older person’s life, the beauty in the lines that too often get drawn the older adults she encountered, and between generations,” Student the goodness in the touch that older Ministries Director Glenn Miller said. adults have through her. As The Rev. Dr. Rick Gentzler The books are must-reads for says, “these are meditations of the caregivers, older persons, persons heart.” with parents who are aging, as well My heart was filled with joy and as for persons in Older Adult thanksgiving for Missy Buchanan, as Ministry, United Methodist Women, one who is busy getting her “hands United Methodist Men and in the dirty” with older adults. United Methodist Church. One of Lucimarian Roberts, mother of the books is on the 2010 UMW ABC’s Good Morning America co- reading list. host Robin Roberts, sent Buchanan a “As I speak to older adult groups note: “How did you know what I The BIG around the country, I always remind was feeling? It’s as though you have them that God could have designed been reading my mind.” Connection! Bethany UMC pastor’s book on Christian ed published The Rev. Marty C. Canaday’s in the areas of church book, Planning for Christian growth, leadership Education Formation: A Community development and spiri - of Faith Approach , has been pub - tual formation. At lished recently by Chalice Press. Bethany, he coordi - Canaday is minister of nates the religious edu - Discipleship at Bethany United cation ministry. CANADAY Methodist Church, Summerville. The book was co-written with Don’t miss a single issue – The book guides planning and Israel Galindo, dean and professor of organizing a Christian education Christian Education at the Baptist ministry, stressing the importance of Theological Seminary, Richmond, Va. Subscribe To the Advocate a community of faith in Christian “What Israel and Marty have done formation. is to make clear that there is a differ - $15 a YEAR! Canaday is a member of the ence. Christians are formed in faith Send your checks to: Cooperative Baptist Fellowship and by active participation in the life of a Advocate is a graduate of Southeastern Baptist community of faith. Practicing faith 4908 Colonial Dr. Theological Seminary, Wake Forest, makes people of faith. This book Columbia, SC 29203-6070 N.C. Over the years he has provided tells us why and how,” said Mark Give us the name of your church, please! workshop and conference leadership Price, formerly with Abingdon Press. Page 8, May 2010 The South Carolina United Methodist Advocate Belin’s healing services among the most sought-after By Emily Cooper tion of 1,200 had as they came to of healing,” he said. Healing? the altar with their little black “There may be people who Is that United Methodist? We pieces of paper. Some crushed them scoff at this, but they’re not don’t do that, do we?” and literally threw them at the altar; really ready for it.” Yes, it’s in the book, The United other laid them gently on the altar. Hill’s wife’s Aunt Dot, a Methodist Book of Worship. “It was a powerful, powerful tool.” Christian Scientist and a home - Belin Memorial Hill is a retired chaplain and for - coming queen with a winning UMC in Murrell’s mer director of the UM Endorsing personality, was stricken with Inlet has a healing Agency, a part of the General Board rheumatoid arthritis and con - service on fourth of Higher Education and Ministries. fined to a wheelchair. “She Sunday evenings, “I saw this being used in the would be the first to say that according to the Army,” Hill said, and one of his God did cure her.” She stayed Rev. Greg Hill. appointments sent him to a church in her wheelchair, but God Healing services in Lancaster, Penn., where the care healed her spiritually. “She was provide “engage - pastor did services of healing. “I a blessing in her joy for life. ment with God learned from watching him,” Hill Although her crippling disease through prayer, said. worsened, her spirit was Scripture and “As I look at the healing that vibrant.” preaching,” Hill said. took place and the promise that Belin Memorial has “There are two or three ways to Jesus gave us – that we could do announced the service only ask God to help with healing.” even greater things,” Hill finds no within its own church, but word HEALING IN A VARIETY OF WAYS – The Sometimes people come to the altar, reason to back away from the some - has spread and people through - Rev. Greg Hill leads healing at Murrells Inlet one by one and, as they kneel, Hill times controversial service. out the community come. Once once a month. said, “I ask them to tell me what “Healing can be spiritual healing each month at Belin’s 6 p.m. they would like to pray for. People of something we’re ashamed of,” he Sunday services, the service of heal - “Healing is not magic, but underly - I’ve never seen before pour their said, or it can be the healing with ing, wholeness and hope is offered. ing it is the great mystery of God’s hearts out.” After prayer, Hill people with whom we need to be “It’s always the best attended,” said love…”; and “God does not prom - anoints their head with oil. reconciled. Even the way we treat the Rev. Mike Alexander, Belin’s ise we shall be spared suffering but The focus on one person at a time the Earth – for some, it is a way senior pastor. The service “elicits does promise to be with us in our makes a longer service, but that they can begin their relationship people’s pain and anxiety.” suffering.” allows prayer time for those assem - with the Earth. bled. “Like Words from Book of Worship On other occasions, those in need Communion, In the United Methodist Book of are offered a laying on of hands and it’s a mys - Worship, the “Healing Services and an inclusive prayer. tery,” Hill Prayers” are prefaced with para - At a few services, Hill has passed said. It’s not graphs that begin with, “Scripture out black pieces of paper and pen - hard to accept, as strongly affirms ministries of spiri - cils (which don’t show up on black studies have tual healing …”: “All heal - paper). Those who wish may write a shown, that heal - ing is of God. …”; penitent message about something ing does come from finding for which or someone with whom the ability to deal with they need to be reconciled. things and thus heal. They YOUR PRIVATE CONFESSION – Hill has used black pieces In Pennsylvania, he was over - come to the point that they ask, of paper, – about 3” x 5”, no two are the same. “This is you whelmed to see the “spiritual “’Oh, God, what can you and I do?’ and God,” Hill said. With a pencil on black paper, no one can read it – but God. engagement with God” a congrega - The idea of servanthood comes out S.C. bill brings ‘teeth’ to Peace with Justice concerns Peace with Justice Sunday rolls Prison Fellowship is partnering with • Clarify and strengthen penalties narrow; around May 30 and Clayton the Pew Center on the States for repeat offenders of serious • Require swift and certain pun - Childers, a S.C. pastor with the Public Safety Performance Project crime; ishments for all offenders who vio - General Board of Church and to pass the Crime Reduction and • Base decisions for parole on late their probation or parole; and Society, is asking S.C. United Sentencing Reform Act this spring. offenders’ risk to the public, ensur - • Reduce South Carolina’s Methodists’ support of an effort by Childers said he knows people ing that the most dangerous offend - dependence on prisons by enforcing the Prison Fellowship. associate Church Colson with his ers remain behind bars; alternative punishments proven to If nothing changes, South years in Nixon’s office and might • Supervise all offenders for at hold offenders accountable and help Carolina’s prison population will not connect him with the UM least six months after they are them avoid criminal behavior; and increase by 3,400 people by 2014, General Board of Church and released into communities to ensure • Reserve prison space for offend - and spending will swell by almost Society, but GBCS staff has worked that they stay on the straight and ers who truly pose a threat to socie ty. $40 million per year, Childers said. recently to help Prison Fellowship Constructing new prisons to hold promote some important state initia - this influx of inmates will cost an tives. additional $300 million. The S.C. Crime Reduction and Epworth Mother’s Day Offering “The good news is that there are Sentencing Reform Act has passed ways to cut the cost of corrections the Senate and, a press time, is is Sunday, May 6th and improve our safety at the same expected to pass the House of time,” Childers said. Representatives. The bill will: Please give generously College Notes to the children of Epworth (803) 256-7394 A Spartanburg Methodist College administrator was recently honored with an award presented by the S.C. Women in Higher Education. Make an online donation and credit your church Dr. Ann Bowles, SMC vice president for academic affairs, has been www.epworthchildrenshome.org named the recipient of the 2010 Martha Kime Piper Award. The South Carolina United Methodist Advocate May 2010, Page 9 Drawing up a power of attorney is a scary step By Emily Cooper who would give the authority; upon meeting the person, she might Nobody runs from making a will. demand to have a written physi - It forces the acknowledgement, cian’s opinion before she assists “I’m going to die.” someone to obtain the power of People hate to think about draw - attorney. ing up a durable power of attorney, The principal’s assets cannot be however. It forces us to think, used for the agent’s personal use “Someone might have to wipe my unless the DOPA specifically says bottom.” so. Such a violation of fiduciary A social worker made this obser - duty can be brought to court by a vation at a workshop sponsored by friend as well as a family member. the Funeral Consumers Alliance of Naming only one person can be South Carolina and led by attorney dangerous because that person can Judith Whiting, who specializes in become incapacitated. It is should elder law. be “X” or “Y” or “Z” in order of “These are two documents every - choice, not two or three concurrent - one 18 years and older should ly. have,” Whiting said at the gathering Tell the people you’ve named, at the Unitarian Universalist Whiting insisted and discuss with Fellowship in Columbia in late them what your wishes are and March, but she admitted she can’t where the document(s) are. “Talk get her own children to complete with them when everyone is ration - the paperwork. al,” she urged; not when everyone is “People identify the last will and upset and worried. testament as a necessary document,” Whiting also suggested a child Whiting said, and it’s easier because might not be the best choice after it doesn’t take affect in the lifetime your spouse, as it’s hard for a child of the person who created the docu - BREAK TIME – Doak Wolfe (left) and Vicki Corley, a member of Trenholm Road not to be overcome with emotion – ment. United Methodist Church, talk about information shared by Judith Whiting, also a or guilt for living in another place – If you die without a will, the member of Trenholm Road and a family and elder law attorney in Columbia . and to be objective. (Photo by Emily Cooper) State of South Carolina will dis - See Page 10 perse your estate first to your spouse and children; or if there are none, it goes to your parent(s); or, third, to your siblings. It will even SOUTH CAROLINA UNITED METHODIST search for heirs if none of the for - mer can be found – but that’s 2010 expensive and can drain an estate. “So if you die without a will, it’s LAITY CONVOCATION not a big deal,” Whiting said. Living in poor health and without July 9-11, 2010 a durable power of attorney and/or Lake Junaluska, NC healthcare power of attorney, how - ever, can be a really big deal. “This is the most critical document,” the attorney said. “It identifies the per - son(s) to make decisions about my ‘IT ONLY TAKES A SPARK’ finances when I am unable.” If the
Strengthening the Clergy/Laity Partnership • Bishop person is within an age-bracket Mary Virginia Taylor, Bishop of South Carolina Confer- when failing health is common - ence, and Dr. Joesph Heyward, Conference Lay Leader
Risk Management • Jim Ellis, Southern Mutual Church place, she advises that the DPOA Insurance
Nine Conversations w/Aging Parents • Scott take effect right away. If you’re Middleton, Agape Senior
United Methodism 101 • Dis- healthy one day and not the next, trict Superintendent Tim McClendon
Effective Leader- the “agent” (person you have ship in a Small Congregation Church • Michael Cheatham, Conference Lay Speaking MInistries
Com- named) would have to go to court to municating in a Google World • Matt Brodie, Confernence become a conservator. A DPOA Director of Communications
Functional Structures • the Rev. Jim Arant, Congregational Specialist
Non-tradi- might cost $800 in legal costs while tional Approaches to Spiritual Practices • the Rev. Mi- getting a conservator named might young Paik
Stewardship is about Giving, But Not Just cost $8,000, Whiting said. Money • Donald Love, Conference Stewardship Task Another option is for the docu - Group
Gift-Oriented Ministry – the Rev. Cathy Joens, Congregational Specialist
Training for Local Prayer Co- ment to have a “springing power,” ordinators • Clayton Easter, Conference UMM Prayer when certain identifiable stages Advocate Coordinator
Connecting the Dots of Effective have been reached. “This is some - Communication • the Rev. Carleathea Benson, Marlence Spencer
New Mercies • District Superintendent James thing younger people (healthy peo - Friday
Inspiring Worship • the Rev. Jeff Kersey
Devel- ple in their 60s perhaps or even peo - oping Good Sunday School Teachers • Dr. Doris Layton ple in their 20s) find more pallia -
Fun Things to do with Youth • Dr. Robert Barrett
Mak- ing Your Marriage A Priority • the Rev. Ken Nelson, Con- tive.” gregational Specialist
Adventures for Children sessions “Yes!” Whiting said unequivocal - available; Surge Weekend 4 for youth, July 8-11 ly. You can revoke the power of Featuring: attorney decided upon earlier pro - Registration form: vided you have the same capacity to Bishop Woodie White, Worship Leader www.umcsc.org/ execute a contract. $30 before May 31; $35, June 1 or later Whiting refuses to do a power of Mail to registration form to: Laity Convocation attorney sought by a friend or rela - Registration, Connectional Ministries, 4908 tive until she has met the person Colonial Dr., Columbia, SC 29203 Page 10, May 2010 The South Carolina United Methodist Advocate Planning for the best care if you become incapable ... From Page 9 may want to have it filed there as year later, when she happened to these kinds of issues. You may call The person(s) selected should be well. For example, if a home in look at her deceased daughter’s dri - him to set up a program, “Five a responsible person with no history North Carolina needed to be sold, ver’s license and learned she had Things You Should Know about of bad decisions or additions. that document on file would provide wanted to donate her organs. When Funerals,” at your church at 803- A durable power of attorney also the necessary clear title, allowing the mother had received a call at the 787-9585. allows your spouse to sell a house if the spouse to sell it. time of her daughter’s death, she There are many things assumed need be to make life easier for him There is an agreement with 40 said a firm “no.” about funerals and thought to be in or her and use the money for the states, including those contiguous to “A donor designation on your S. C. the law that are not accurate. For principal’s benefit as well. South Carolina, to honor a copy - driver’s license and/or a signed and example, some knowledgeable per - The DPOA must be filed in the righted document set forth by witnessed donor card does grant son can assume the role of funeral state of the principal’s residence; if Lutheran Hospice, Five Wishes , two authorization for organ and/or tissue director if someone wanted to have there is a home out-of-state, you of which are considered legally recovery, but because of the sudden - a home funeral, Ganong said. binding: who can make healthcare ness and emotion surrounding the Do you have to be embalmed? Mepkin Abbey decisions for you and what kind of circumstances, both documents are Except in rare cases, absolutely not. medical treatment you want or don’t rarely available at the time a family Is there a public health reason? No, site for looking want. is approached regarding donation,” according to the U.S. Center for A DOPA does not kick in just the Web site for Donate Life SC Disease Control. However, the at creation care because you’re going to a hospital says. funeral home may say, “If you want or nursing home, but when death is to have a viewing, the deceased A number of S.C. faith communi - Where to put documents imminent. Whiting noted that the must be embalmed.” Refrigeration ties are working to uphold God’s Where do you store all these doc - anesthesia during a simple preventa - may be used in preserving a body if creation for future generations while uments, other than your driver’s tive test she underwent, however, there is a delay in cremation. meeting the needs of the present license? A refrigerator’s freezer is left her incapacitated and unable to Ganong can provide information generation – and you’re invited to suggested as that is where the EMS make decisions for herself for a about grave liners, coffin vaults and learn more in the tranquil setting of personnel will look. A good firebox short time. other costs that drive up the death Mepkin Abbey at Monck’s Corner. will withstand three hours of fire A living will, which deals with bill. Sister Paula Gonzalez, with reportedly. Give a copy to all the medical treatment, applies when The FCASC monitors legislation Sisters of Charity in Cincinnati, will people named, file appropriate doc - death is imminent, when the physi - that affects consumers. Those with give the keynote address May 20, uments with the court. “Spirituality for the 21st Century.” cian says, “this is the best day your $35 memberships have access to Planning your funeral? The gathering begins at 8:30 that loved one will ever have again.” spreadsheets to compare costs of Not something we relish, but we Thursday. Dr. Bruce Coull, dean A DPOA tends to be long and funeral homes in major S.C. metro can punish those we love by not emeritus of USC School of the EMS personnel don’t want to have areas. As volunteers come on board, making this final “end-of-life deci - Environment, will moderate a panel to read 28 pages to find out what cost information from smaller cities sion.” in response to Dr. Gonzalez’s talk. they are allowed to do, so shorter is and areas will be entered. The Funeral Consumers Alliance Panelists are the Rev. Bert Keller, better. Eco-funerals are becoming an of South Carolina is part of a associate professor of Family Any document you may want to increasingly popular consideration. “national federation protecting a Medicine (ethics) at MUSC and be effective in another state should The concept not only includes two consumer’s right to choose a mean - pastor of the Circular have a notary seal. Linda Davis, green burial spots in South ingful, dignified, affordable funeral.” Congregational Church in volunteer coordinator for Hospice Carolina, one in Westminster and “We advise people on their legal Charleston; Emily Cooper, editor of Care of Tri County (which now one in Swansea, but home funerals rights and options,” Tony Ganong, the S.C. United Methodist Advocate serves more than its original three as well as recycling your organs are treasurer of the state’s group that which has established a gathering counties), offered the free notary part of the changing scene. sponsored the workshop on elder called Green Theology as a place service to others, 803-400-1177 or As boomers age, bans on chemi - law in Columbia March 27. The for United Methodists and other 800-894-7541. cal embalming based on concerns group is non-sectarian. The idea of denominations to learn to conserve for groundwater, prohibiting coffins Make your donor wishes known such a purpose began with the energy; and Father Guerric Heckel, of metal or rare woods in favor of Tell your loved ones you are an Unitarians and the Quakers about 70 a Mepkin Abbey monk who serves more available woods assembled for organ donor. years ago, he said. director of the Native Plant rapid decomposition, burial in a A mother attending the Funeral Want to know if you have to buy Reclamation. shroud, and herbicide and pesticide- Consumers Alliance workshop said a casket from the funeral home? Lunch and a tour of Mepkin will free cemetery lawn care are expect - she was grief-stricken to learn a Ganong likes to talk to groups about be provided. ed to become more commonplace. Ann Shahid, will moderate a dis - cussion of practical examples for facilities, church educators and con - DustDust to to Dust Dust Green Green Burial Burial –– aa place place of of peace peace gregants. Shahid is the Climate and Energy Outreach coordinator for Audubon South Carolina at its Beidler Forest center at Harleyville. Participants include Trish Jerman, manager for Policy and Programs for the S.C. Energy Office; and Jean Osborne, director of Christian Education at First United Methodist Church in Myrtle Beach. The free program, concluding at ‘For you are dust, and to dust you shall return’ – Genesis 3:19 4 p.m., is provided by the Center for Humans and Nature, Audubon While planning for his final arrangements, owner Michael Bishop decided people should have South Carolina and Mepkin Abbey. the opportunity to have a simple, natural burial as was done for thousands of years. Registration is required, limited to Visit our website at hp://greencrossing.us. or visit us in Swansea. 50 and must be made by May 10. The event will be followed by We can save you thousands of dollars!!! Charleston District gatherings, Learn how you can be at ease in these decisions. Please call with your quesons “God’s Wonderful World,” at John and let us help you plan. Wesley UMC, Friday evening and DUST TO DUST GREEN BURIAL/ NATURE RESERVE CEMETERY Saturday. (See “District News,” Michael Bishop – 803-568-5552 Page 16) The South Carolina United Methodist Advocate May 2010, Page 11 Retired pastor When do you consider given moving into care?

Purple Heart There are a number of factors Does he or she make good choic - By Rick Spruill that signify it may be time to con - es regarding who should or should Anderson Independent sider an assisted living home for not be let in to the home? Would he Used by permission yourself or your elders, according to or she recognize family, friends ANDERSON – The Rev. Calvin the Rev. Scott Middleton, owner and/or emergency respondents and Quarles was 21 when he earned a and CEO of Agapé Senior. allow them to enter the home? Are Purple Heart during the Korean They include: Increasingly you uncomfortable leaving him or War. unsteady walking, with potential for her alone for an hour or more? On a recent afternoon in falls; inadequate grooming and per - When caregivers leave, does he Anderson, Quarles, now 79, was sonal hygiene; unpredictable/unreli - or she become clingy and call fre - called to the front of the Emmanuel able driving ability; decreasing quently? United Methodist Church. AT LONG LAST – An overdue honor is interest in favorite activities; hesi - He closed his eyes for a moment given the Rev. Calvin Quarles in tancy to socialize; loss of focus or Finding the right place while someone read an order issued Anderson. (Photo by Ken Ruinard) sound judgment; and loss of memo - With so many choices, conven - by the Secretary of the Army, and ry, forgetfulness and confusion. ience is a factor, but not the only then brushed back a tear when, after “So, they … put me on a ship,” Improper administration of med - one. 57 years, his Purple Heart was he said. ications can be a serious problem, When you are selecting an assist - pinned to his chest. The change in plans saved his Middleton said. Energy loss and ed living facility these are some It was a moment of validation for life. fatigue, irritability with sudden other considerations: the retired United Methodist minis - “When I got home, Cornelia mood changes and failing to open Are the grounds and the building ter, whose life changed forever on a showed me a newspaper saying that and process important mail are also well cared for? Are you comfortable Korean War battlefield Oct. 10, the plane I should’ve been on indicators a change is needed. with the staff? 1952, when he was wounded by crashed somewhere in Colorado,” Do you like the food and food shrapnel from an artillery burst. Quarles said. “Everyone on board Safety becomes the issue service? Does the facility smell “I was hit five times in the left was killed.” While the senior is at home clean? Do the residents appear to be leg, once in the upper chest just a Also on board the ill-fated troop alone, is he or she safe? content and friendly with each few inches from my heart, once plane were Quarles’ service records, If there was an emergency, does other? Are the residents treated with through the left hand, once through including the order authorizing his he or she know how to exit the dignity? the scalp along the top of my head receipt of the Purple Heart. home quickly and safely? Can he or Are there sprinklers, fire alarms and once in the lower right cheek,” “At least, that’s what where we she recognize signals for potential and fire drills? Is the security and Quarles said after the ceremony. think they were,” he said. “We real - dangers such as fire alarms? lighting of the community ade - Pfc. Quarles was in Company B, ly don’t know.” If there was an emergency, would quate? Are you welcomed by the 13th Engineer Combat Battalion, “Rev. Quarles’ discharge papers he or she know how to access emer - staff if you make an unannounced 7th Infantry Division, and had been show he was wounded in combat,” gency services? Does he or she visit? in the combat zone for seven said Anderson County Veterans know how to utilize 911? Is he or Do the families of other residents months when he was wounded. Affairs Officer Sammy Lewis. “So, she able to use the phone? appear to be comfortable with the He had come to know well the instead of applying for the medal Does he or she have medical con - facility and staff? men who were killed by the same that he never received, we figured ditions that might require immedi - Is the facility near medical blast that wounded him. out that we could just ask for a ate medical attention? offices, stores, entertainment and “They said it killed everyone in replacement.” When he or she is hungry, is he recreation? Are there a variety of my unit from the lieutenant on or she able to prepare nutritious organized activities conducted by down,” he said. “I think about those A heady moment food? After using the stove, does he trained staff? Does the community boys every day, and I’ve suffered Bowing his head to muffle a sob, or she remember to turn it off? offer on-site entertainment and reli - from that – the post combat stress. with both hands grasping either side Has he or she begun to wander gious actives? Is there adequate Sometimes I can’t sleep. Just the of the podium, Quarles said, “I lost away from the safety of the home transportation for the residents? other night I stayed up until three my squad … but God fixed it so I and yard? Would you stay there? o’clock, praying to go to sleep. But could come home to my wonderful Cornelia is always there with me, wife and 2-year-old baby girl. That praying for me like she’s always is why I serve Him. We don’t done – it’s like she’s my body - always understand His ways, but He guard.” remains faithful.” Cornelia is Quarles’ wife of 59 Sunday evening, after having years. time to reflect on the day, Quarles After the injury, Quarles spent said that receiving the Purple Heart two months flat on his back and does not heal the physical, emotion - another 12 months rehabilitating al and spiritual wounds he suffered from the jagged pieces of shrapnel in the war. But it does help. that remain in his body. He made it “There’s not a day that goes by home to South Carolina in late that I don’t hurt from all the shrap - December 1953. nel. Receiving that medal today “Even today, that shrapnel causes made me feel appreciated for what me pain,” he said. “They never took I’d done. It made me feel good to it out.” know that somebody cares. Why the Purple Heart never “I feel blessed by that.” arrived is its own story. Quarles retired as a full-time In 1953, as Quarles was waiting local pastor from Fairfield UMC in to board a troop transport plane the Anderson District. He also bound for the states, an officer served the Belton Charge, pulled him out of line, explaining to Williamston Charge, and New him that his wounds were too seri - Golden Grove/Moores Chapel, and ous to withstand the thin oxygen at he retired from Fairfield, all in the higher altitudes. Anderson District. Page 12, May 2010 The South Carolina United Methodist Advocate

THE INCENTIVE – From the little white church across the road that was deemed a risk (highlighted in the circle), Pastor Telley Gadson and the St. Mark’s congrega - tion could visualize the handsome brick church that’s set on a big spread of land, and they went to work to find the money and build it. The grounds was getting the last touches before the dedication April 11. Now they can see from whence they’ve come from the portico of their new church. (Photos by Emily Cooper) A vision across the road – God’s ‘new thing’ By Emily Cooper have that kind of money. become “sacred space.” SUMTER – When the third snake in eight Henderson offered it to them for $75,000. On April 9th, they met to talk about their jour - months showed up, a faithful helper was ready to “How long can you hold my check?” Gadson ney. On April 10, they walked the three and a go. But it wasn’t long before everyone had to go. joked with him. Soon he made a better offer, quarter miles to their new brick church on 1093 The congregation was kicked out of its church. owner-financing. “It was evident God had Oswego Highway, across the road from their for - “God was definitely doing a new thing. touched him,” Gadson said. The church gave him mer home. On April 11, their new church was “It was God’s way of showing us what con - $2,500 earnest money and it was financed for consecrated. temporary worship looks like,” reasoned the Rev. five years – a loan they paid off in two years. As Gadson led a whirlwind-tour of the down - Telley Gadson, pastor of St. Mark United Into this process, members were afraid Gadson town storefront as she reeled off a litany of Methodist Church. would be moved and then where would they be, acronyms, JPs: Judah Praise, 17- to 30-year-olds; The United Methodist Conference of South shackled with a financial commitment. Adding to VIPs: Voices of Inspiration, a dance ministry; Carolina shut the church down because it was their burden were the snakes and other problems AA: Aaron’s Army, youth and college boys who unsafe. causing the conference to close their old church perform mime; DD: Deborah’s Daughters, young Hold that image and go back a few years. down. “What!” members said. They “would have females who do a flag ministry; NuCreations, As the events surrounding the old building to raise money and pay to lease a building, too?” praise dancers age 10-15; WOP, Women of began to unfold, “All we had to lean on was God They met at a sister church, Bethel/Oswego, for and each other,” Gadson said. a short while, but that was temporary. See Page 13 Gadson greeted 35 active members when she They moved came to St. Mark in 1999. It was part of a two- into a little com - point charge that got seven new pastors, usually mercial building probationary elders, in 11 years. It was condi - in downtown tioned to instability. Sumter. Gadson’s mother, Linda Gadson of Rural By April 5, Ministries, had shocked her, made her uneasy 2010, St. Mark’s before her new congregation, when she spoke of pastor was the idea of having a church across the road in her showing the for - daughter’s first service there in June 1999. mer insurance In August 2000, a white man named W. A. office on South Henderson called. “I see cars parked along the Sumter Street road. You’ve got overflow parking and I believe they had called you all need a church. I own the land across the home for three road and I’d like to see you have it.” years to a com - And, probably out of curiosity, they’d already mittee from made a call when the for-sale sign went up another church across the road: $180,000 – and the congrega - who wanted to MARCHING – Members walked from downtown to the country, ecstatic that the day had tion, taking in $200 to $300 a Sunday, didn’t rent what had come when they could celebrate their journey. (Photo special to the Advocate) The South Carolina United Methodist Advocate May 2010, Page 13

‘I’m of the persuasion this church is built for struggle.’ – Telley Gadson

EMPTY BUT READY FOR USE – Before furnishing arrive, Daryl Williams (left) and Mario Pearson get acquainted with the space where they will be providing music for St. Mark UMC. ‘You have to have a clear vision’... From Page 12 resources and no vision, you get a social club for of Praise, ages 50 and up; Primary Praisers, girls the intellectually elite; with a clear vision, you’ve and boys to age 12; AH, Anointed Harmony, a got real church.” praise team; MOF, Men of Faith; WT, Women’s Her values and vision didn’t allow for any raf - Team. And the dizzying list goes on: UMYF, fles or rallies to raise money. (“They’ll think if YAMs, Middlers and GAs (Golden Age). Family they worked on a fundraiser, they don’t have to ministries are called “The Village.” pay their tithe.”) “We had this huge incentive You quickly get the picture that there are more across the street” while they were in the old than 35 active members now; the number has church. To pay off the mortgage on the land, in more than quadrupled, to a conservative 160 and addition to the $803 a month, they concocted, it is no longer part of a two-point charge. “People “$30,000 in 30 days” – and it took only 60 days; like to be connected to a winner,” so new mem - and “$15,000 in 11 days,” and it took about 20 bers came, and she credits members’ “tenacity to days. The bank financed the building, but not fur - stick and stay.” niture and fixtures, but much of that was donated. Other than the force of Telley Gadson’s person - She’s still passing out envelops for contributions. ality and faith, what happened to produce a 6,000- Gadson attributes some of the success to the square-foot brick church on a large spread? very thing that raised fear in her congregation – “You have to have a healthy relationship. that she was becoming known all across the coun - Ministry is a marriage between the pastor and the try as a rising African-American female pastor, congregation. The pastor has to have a clear and she would leave them. That national contact, vision and the congregation has to have a clear however, brought a larger group of contributors, a commitment,” Gadson said. She shared her $1,000 here and $2,000 there. vision, “This is what God is calling us to do,” and She also credits the coach training she had in then asked them, “Let me hear what you’re hear - Nashville. PROFESSIONAL FUNDRAISING – The Rev. Telley ing, and what is your commitment. “I’m of the persuasion this church is built for Gadson (above) and members raised unbelievable “I’d rather struggle with limited finances than struggle,” Gadson said, and that doesn’t seem to amounts of money in short periods of time without with limited vision,” she said. “With great scare her one bit. hiring a professional fundraiser. Page 14, May 2010 The South Carolina United Methodist Advocate St. Luke baskets Different ways to get in touch with God net $1,700 By Allison Trussell how others judge them. They firmly for free clinic Have you ever attended a worship believe that spirituality involves service or church event where you active participation in the transfor - Members of St. Luke United felt absolutely connected? mation of the world. Methodist Church, Walhalla, Have you ever been to one where What’s important to note, Rogers enjoyed their usual Fellowship you felt like a complete outsider? said, is that each of these spirituali - Circle this spring, and a huge Easter Feelings of inclusion and exclu - ties are valid. The model for this is Basket Auction that netted $1,700 sion speak to our spiritual identity, a circle; “It emphasizes the unity of for the Rosa Clark Clinic. our dominant way of experiencing these spiritualities,” she said. “There Many baskets brought $45 to $50, God, Dr. Alice Rogers told the is no hierarchy. Every part is essen - and one went for $110. recent clergy gathering, held March tial, is of importance and makes a Judy Allan, a St. Luke member 18 at Lexington United Methodist contribution.” who started as a volunteer at Rosa Church. Not surprisingly, the majority of Clark, but now enjoys a full-time Rogers discussed principles and a pastors present fell into the first and position, brought the needs of the typology based on works by Urban second categories. “What is the clinic to the attention of members T. Holmes and Corinne Ware that Methodist Church if not head and who decided to help. have been helpful in her ministry in DR. ALICE ROGER –In Lexington heart?” Rogers quipped. A fair Allan said clinic, established in the church and at Candler School of amount were in the third category 1985, became the first S.C. free ship without a rigid structure and Theology, where she is the director and a handful were in the fourth clinic. Rosa Clark was a Red Cross that is emotional and spontaneous. of the Teaching Parish Program. one. nurse, who delivered more than They tend to be comfortable with There are four spiritual types, In her experience, Rogers has 1,000 babies from WWII to 1964, witnessing and testimonies and pre - Rogers said, and while everyone has found that identifying which spiritu - traveling mountain roads. The mis - fer prayer led by the spirit. characteristics of each type, one is ality is the pastor’s dominant one sion serves the indigent and the The third type is mystical spiritu - usually dominant. and which is the congregation or underinsured of Oconee County. ality. People in this category spend Intellectual spirituality people group’s dominant area can help “Five years ago, we had 832 more time hearing from God rather like order, consistency and logic. avoid conflict. patients,” Allan said. “Today we than speaking to or doing for him. They enjoy a good Bible study, “This isn’t to pigeon-hole any - serve more than 3500, with more They are the contemplatives and well-crafted sermons and thoughtful one, just to recognize that we are coming in every day,” through pri - enjoy simplicity and quiet medita - written prayers. As a result, they dominant in one way,” she said. vate sector gifts and grants. Oconee tion. tend to support teaching, preaching With identification, people begin to has the highest unemployment rate Kingdom spirituality is the last and publishing in the church. realize that there are other ways to in the state at 14.6 percent. type, and they are the active vision - Others experience God through experience God and that there is no “I have had men and women aries. They are socially and politi - emotion and heart. They prefer wor - “right” way. coming in who have worked all cally active and care little about their lives and had health benefits,” Allan said. “Now, all of a sudden, they find themselves with no job, no Tips for safely aging in your own home insurance and, in some cases, no Most elders would prefer to stay who provide care to seniors. Most home care agency employ - place to live.” in their own homes, where they Preventing Falls ees have received training in how to “Just last week,” Allan said, “one know their neighbors and can asso - Rearrange the furniture to create assess a senior’s home to determine of our patients was able to get ciate memories with each object unobstructed passageways. Make what about it could pose a risk of Medicaid, which means he can’t be around them, rather than move to an sure no rugs or carpets bunch up or falling. The senior would then have a patient at Rosa Clark anymore. institution as they age. have frayed edges that could be to make her own arrangements to With tears in his eyes he tells me Things that can make “aging in tripped on and that all rugs and car - have her home adapted. how thankful he is for Rosa Clark place” – the current term for staying pets are securely anchored. and how we saved his life.” in one’s own home as one ages – Install grab bars in the bathroom New Technology Can Help Donations may be sent to St. problematic are tasks such as cook - and railings in all stairwells. Add Electronic devices are now avail - Luke UMC, P.O. Box 339, Walhalla, ing, cleaning, shopping and driving, lighting so that all stairs, exits and able to help monitor whether or not SC 29691. as well as falls, which, for frail eld - entrances are well lit and pose no a senior has taken his or her med - ers, could begin a downward spiral. hazard. Tape all cords to the wall. ication – or to determine whether a April Corrections/ Help could come from family Warn seniors to only carry very senior has opened the refrigerator. clarifications – members, friends, or neighbors, small loads in their arms. Larger Emergency buttons can be worn The Rev. Willie Teague said the who take care of a specific thing the ones could cause a loss of balance. around the neck and pressed if a new structure he and the conference elder has trouble with. Or, some Check footware to see that the health or other emergencies occur, Connectional Ministries have pro - elders turn to their religious com - soles of shoes worn in the home in which case a person will speak to posed is designed to provide min - munity, or other volunteers willing don’t stick to the carpet and are not the senior through the device, assess istry programming based upon the to enable a senior to age in place. likely to cause falls. the situation and call for appropriate needs defined by churches them - Another option is to call the local Reduce the number of medica - help. selves, as opposed to the current Agency on Aging (800-868-9095) tions the elder takes, as taking four Cameras can be installed to track structure which gives boards and to see if there are programs that or more can affect a person’s sense a senior’s movements, allowing agencies the responsibility of defin - help elders age in place. In some of balance. adult children to monitor the senior ing needs. areas, “villages” have been created, You can now hire a Certified and be assured that he or she is Dr. Suzy Schwab is a member of whereby local merchants have Aging-in-Place Specialist – some - functioning well. Mount Horeb United Methodist banded together to provide the serv - one who can assess a home to deter - New devices are constantly being Church. ices seniors need to stay there, and mine how to make it as safe as pos - invented, and they can make an Dr. Ernest Etheredge is superin - seniors who pay a fee can make just sible for a senior, and make the nec - enormous difference in a senior’s tendent of the Walterboro District, one phone call to arrange for help. essary repairs. ability to age in place. not Orangeburg. If you have never Home care agencies can be hired These specialists have been With all of these options avail - tasted his cakes, they are terrific, to provide the extra help needed for trained to add a wide range of safe - able, aging in place is an increasing - District Lay Leader John Allgood the senior to be able to age in place. ty features to enable an elderly per - ly viable choice. Seniors and their said. In some cases, expenses will be son to live independently. They can loved ones need to assess whether Omitted photo information: reimbursed by Medicare, but seniors be found on the internet at CAPS; this alternative is indeed best, the Mount Horeb member Beverly will need to check with the home- click on “Education” at the National risk being that the senior may Sease, on-site coordinator of volun - care agency to find out about this Association of Home Builders, then become too socially isolated despite teers, was watching over a little one possibility. There are Web sites that “Designations,” then “Certified being in familiar neighborhoods and in a photo with Dr. Suzy Schwab. list people throughout the nation Aging-In-Place Specialists.” homes. The South Carolina United Methodist Advocate May 2010, Page 15 The funeral – giving the loved one back to God By Emily Cooper The Rev. Daniel Burbage thinks of what one of his seminary profes - sors at Lutheran Southern Theological Seminary always asked when he thinks of funerals: “WIGIAT,” Dr. Daryl “Tony” Everett’s acronym for, “Where is God in all this?” But the Rev. James Ellis Griffeth said, “Convenience has become a factor.” People want one-stop shop - ping with a chapel on the cemetery grounds. “Funerals are less and less connected to the church and its tra - ditions.” Griffeth is seeing private burials held an hour or two before worship, with visitation after the worship service. C. 1949 – A home funeral for Fred DeArmond, the editor’s grandfather in Knoxville, Tenn. Pastors don’t like the trend. person who died. It’s about how leave-taking,’” Griffeth said. “It’s a to church as a result of the death of A funeral “is a celebration of God has worked through that person very important part of the grieving a loved one. what they did on this side,” said the and is with that person now. It’s process. A number of years ago, a Another part of it is after the Rev. Geneva Stafford of Jeremiah- about God it helps the people who man committed suicide after an ill - funeral. “We have a lot of widows,” Mount Seal Charge in Hemingway. are left.” There’s the ness. The wife decided there would he said, with whom both he and the “It’s a time to remember, and say a Commendation, “we give this per - be no service and had vague plans congregation keep in touch. “St. few things that family needs to son back to God and the words of about burial. Within his business, Mark really comes together well hear.” grace,” he said. several employees who worked with when a funeral occurs.” Unlike Euro-Americans’ move him were so devastated they “O God, all that you have given us A church or funeral home? toward the funeral-home chapel, requested I come lead a memorial If a person has a long illness, his is yours. service so that they would have a “African-Americans “pride them - As you first gave –––– to us, See Page 16 selves on using the church,” chance to say goodbye. My hunch is Now we give ––––– back to you.” Provide For Your Stafford said, even if the deceased that the widow became stuck in her didn’t always even go to church. “You celebrate the relationship grief.” Future And “It’s the root of what we do; we with Jesus Christ, and you remind It helps to be able, early on, to Leave A Legacy do church. It’s always important them of the Christian belief in resur - move forward in the process and to Through the that their final time of celebration is rection of the body,” said Mayfield, allow the community to honor and Foundation! at the church where they spent their pastor of St. Mark UMC, St. witness to the resurrection, Griffeth time,” Stafford said. Matthews. said. That’s exactly what dozens “It’s appropriate that this is asked Griffeth, who served as a hospital “Pastoral care with the family is a of people have done since 1982 through Charitable Gift just asked after Easter,” the Rev. chaplain for more than two decades, very important part of a funeral as said there may be many purposes well,” Burbage said. Because of the Annuities with the South Patricia Mayfield said, “when we Carolina United Methodist for a funeral, a major one being itinerant system, most pastors plan celebrate the resurrection.” Foundation. “The liturgy is so important; it bearing witness to the resurrection, funerals for people who moved guides you; it points to the cross,” hence the title, “A Service and away before the pastor had a chance Current One-Life Rates said Burbage, pastor of St. Mark Death and Resurrection.” to know them. “In such cases, you For Selected Ages United Methodist Church in A funeral gives family and listen to the family and to their Columbia. That’s a very important friends a time of saying goodbye. church family to learn about the Age 60 5.0% part of a funeral. People have a ten - “The people who write about this person who has died.” Burbage has Age 65 5.3% Age 70 5.7% dency to think it’s just about the kind of stuff call it ‘ceremonial had children of the deceased return Age 75 6.3% Age 80 7.1% RAMSEY CREEK Age 85 8.1% Two-Life Rates Available Preserve Upon Request 390 Cobb Bridge Road Gift Annuities with the PO Box 188 Foundation provide guaranteed lifetime income at an attractive Westminister, South Carolina 29693 rate, immediate tax benefits for your charitable contribution, and a way to leave a legacy for e Nation’s First Conservation Burial Ground the future. ------• Carry Your Love and Respect for Nature to the Grave The South Carolina • A Return to Simpler, Traditional Burial United Methodist Foundation, Inc. P. O. Box 5087 • Saves Land Columbia, SC 29250-5087

• Less Expensive Total Funeral Costs Send me information about a • Cremated Remains Also Accepted Charitable Gift Annuity with the Foundation. For More Info or to Schedule an Appointment Name ______Call 864.647.7798 Address ______or visit www.memorialecosystems.com City ______State ______Zip ______Page 16, May 2010 The South Carolina United Methodist Advocate District News fitting and green construction for Lenten Organ Meditations on Dialogue and Widor’s Toccata from Anderson District churches, energy stewardship, sus - Wednesdays at noon during Lent as Symphony V. This was the last con - tainable landscaping and religious a time to set ourselves apart to med - cert for the 2009-2010 season. Members of St. Luke UMC, education for the Earth. itate on God’s love for us. Congratulations to the Rev. Walhalla, chose from three site Sponsored by the Center for First UMC, Conway, also pre - Shawn and Mr. Derrick Weeks on plan for the use of the property Humans and Nature and Audubon sented the Greenville Brass Quintet the birth of their first child, April 11, at the regular service of South Carolina and hosted by in concert April 11 with Billy Madison D’Andria Weeks. Weeks is hour. The church and parsonage John Wesley UMC in Charleston, Fallaw, organist. Featured pieces the pastor of Bennettsville Circuit I have been located on that block the event, including lunch, has no were Gigout’s Grand Choeur Charge, Bennettsville. since 1859, but the sanctuary was charge. Call 843-766-5596 or visit destroyed by vandals and fire in www.jwumchurch.org to register by Church funeral offers special graces ... July 2009. May 11 for the event, which opens St. Luke UMC observed “Women From Page 15 at 6:30, Friday, May 21, and contin - or her wishes may be expressed to the pastor in the presence of a member in the Church” at St. Luke UMC, ues Saturday, 8:30 to 4. of the family, but both Burbage and Griffeth said the decision about Walhalla, in March with Cathy whether to use a funeral home chapel or the church is most often made Joens, Congregational Specialist for Columbia District before the pastor is involved. Anderson and Greenville districts, If the grief is of an unhealthy kind, a church funeral can make it harder bringing the message. Judy Allan, for the family to return to Sunday worship services. “This goes to the the wife of Joel Allan, was named Bethel UMC, Columbia, contin - fuzzy thinking we’ve gotten over the years. I think we’re a death-denying “Woman of the Year, 2010. ” ued its 175th anniversary celebra - culture,” Griffeth said, getting through the funeral the best way people can “Our Woman of the Year has spent tion with a Heritage Sunday Picnic and forgetting it as soon as it’s over. “It’s healthier to celebrate, and, in so her entire adult life working tireless - April 25. The picnic followed the doing, continue talking about the deceased and honor God in that he has ly to help other people—even today morning worship service, which provided the gift of that life. she works at the Rosa Clark Clinic in was led by the youth. “The church – when it really is church – is the only institution that cares Seneca. She is involved with the The Chancel Choir, soloists and about people before they’re born and after their death. I have the sense that community in several different orchestra of Shandon UMC, something is missing when it doesn’t take place in the church,” Griffeth capacities such as the Pilot Club, sits Columbia, performed Part Three of said. on the Board for SLUMC, works Messiah April 21. The subject of “If the person who died had a relationship with the church, a lot of peo - with Relay for Life and sits on the Part Three is “Thanksgiving for the ple in attendance are going to remember that person as a Sunday school board of the Oconee County Red Defeat of Death,” with text taken teacher, liturgist or member of choir, and it puts the person in the context Cross,” Bobbie Wilhite said. “Judy from I Corinthians 15, Romans 8 of being Christian,” Mayfield said. “People come to church to worship, has worked tirelessly for our church, and Revelation. and having it there puts the funeral service in context of worship. serving as president and vice-presi - George and Margaret Holladay Sometimes you have to do it because the church is too small or for some dent of the Fellowship Circle, and on were inducted into College Place other reason. “What better place to send someone off than a church?” she the Worship Committee as Chair for UMC’s Heritage Church record. On asked . years. A wonderful cook, she is our the same occasion, they celebrated Held at the church, “it’s special because the church family is so much a ‘go-to lady’ if anyone needs a meal.” 70 years of marriage. Until recently, part of the funeral, in the bulletins, in ushering, in making sure the church On Feb. 26, more than 100 youth, Holladay led the College Place is clean, and we always provide a meal wherever the funeral is,” Burbage chaperones and church leaders Strutters, which performed for area said. “It’s their home. We’ve had several funerals of late of men who were made their way to Asbury Hills for nursing homes, and he has always so important to the church. Their marks are around. I find it is a very good the 2nd annual Hands and Feet been active in the church’s upkeep. thing.” Youth Retreat. The groups spent Margaret Holladay, a UMW mem - Burbage said, “There’s no question where God is in a funeral. That’s my Saturday moving and clearing ber and former Sunday school call, to lift that up.” brush, organizing camp t-shirts, teacher, joined her husband in host - roofing and painting and other serv - ing fish fries at their home for ‘Dying, Christ destroyed our death. Rising, Christ ice projects. Chris Lynch, youth church groups. restored our life. Christ will come again in glory.’ director at Trinity UMC, Anderson, was the speaker for the weekend. ‘Don’t yearn for Heaven’ First UMC, Easley, held a Hartsville District Thomas G. Long says in his recent book, Accompany Them with spaghetti dinner and Methodist Idol Singing, The Christian Funeral , Heaven is no longer an influential compo - show April 18. Members of all ages Mission 56 of St. Luke UMC, nent because, in this affluent world, we don’t “yearn for another world.” participated, and proceeds will go to Hartsville, is collecting supplies for In a United Methodist Reporter interview, Long said, in today’s narcis - Salkehatchie Youth Missions. the Humane Society. The group has sistic culture, a funeral is less about the deceased and more about how the put two dog crates out to collect living deal with grief. The Conference Ministers’ The person who has died – when we look through the eyes of the Spouses are visiting the Anderson bleach, dry puppy and kitten chow, liquid laundry detergent, collars, Christian faith – they’re not just a dead person, they’re saints. The commu - district for their second stop as they nity who gathers around to sing and pray and carry the deceased to the journey toward the 2011 Ministers’ leashes, pet shampoo, treats and toys, old towels and carriers. place of farewell is not just a group of well-meaning friends, it’s the body Spouses retreat in Palm Key . of Christ, the community of saints. The journey from the place of death to Conference spouses must register Congratulations to the Rev. Brian and Kaylor Arant on the birth of the place of departure is not just a road or a lane or a path, it’s a metaphor for the Ministers’ Spouses luncheon for the Christian life. This is the last mile of that baptismal journey. The at Annual Conference by May 28 by their daughter and to the Revs. Jim and Ruth Arant on the birth of their place of the disposition is not simply a grave or a cremation furnace; it’s a sending $13.50 to Deborah Friday in place of farewell where we, with thanksgiving and tears, hand the one God Florence. See ad, Page 17. first granddaughter. Ivy Morgan Arant was born April 7 and wel - has given us back into the trust of God. comed home by her big brother, Charleston District Jacob. Brian is the associate pastor of Lyttleton Street UMC, Camden. Atlanta preacher to be at Francis Burns Jim is the congregational specialist “God’s Wonderful World,” is the Francis Burns United Methodist The revivalist will be Dr. Walter for the Greenwood and Orangeburg theme for an ecumenical theological Church, Columbia, is gearing up for Kimbrough, former senior pastor of districts, and Ruth is the director of discussion of the responsibility a spring revival May 5-7 at 7 p.m. Cascade United Methodist Church Christian Education for Lexington toward the natural world and practi - “Revival is the refreshing and in Atlanta, Ga. UMC, Lexington. cal actions for stewardship. Sister renewing of the relationship with Pastor Thomas Bowman and the Paula Gonzales of Ohio and USC Marion District God of those in the church to have leadership are encouraging the Naturalist in Residence Rudy a life-changing effect on us and church to be in prayer for the Mancke will speak. In addition, those around us,”said Lynn Harris, revival based on the theme, the First UMC, Conway, offered there will be workshops on retro - a Francis Burns UMC leader. Forgiving Cross. The South Carolina United Methodist Advocate May 2010, Page 17

DESIGNED TO HONOR THEIR SERVICE – Buckhead UMC’s lay leader, Susan Stephens (left), presents a plaque to Mona Hodges (second from left), as the Rev. Delbert Brown and UMW President Kimberly Mitchell participate in the pres - entation. (Photos special to the Advocate) Buckhead UMC honors women’s service clergy By Trimmier McClellan Although Buckhead United Methodist Church is a small church in a small town, its members know how to love and honor great service in a big way. Buckhead honored four of its “Designing Women” of service during its Women in the Pulpit Sunday in late March. The four honorees, Vivian Vivian McFadden Perice Jones McFadden, Idonia Cochran, Pernice Jones and Mona Hodges, were sur - a luncheon, provid - prised when the Rev. Delbert ed by the United Brown, pastor of Buckhead UMC, Methodist Women, BRAND NEW – The opening of in honor of the presented the women of service Cumberland United Methodist Church’s with awards and corsages for from Designing new sanctuary took place March 28 in 20 to almost 40 years of service. Women’s service Florence. The Rev. Jeanette Cooper, Ministers’ Spouses Thelma Hudson, a lay speaker for which proved, pastor, led the service March 28, and the church, delivered the message, “Great things and Dr. Joseph Heyward, conference lay 2010L uAnnualnch Conferenceeon “A Call to Service: Perfection Not great people can leader and chair of Cumberland’s Friday, June 11, 11:30 a.m. Restoration Committee was on hand to Highland Park UMC Required.” come from small Idonia Cochran welcome all who came. (Photo special to 1300 Second Loop Road, Florence After the service, Buckhead held areas.” the Advocate ) Transportation provided (reserve space now) Reservation Deadline: Pre-Conference District Training begining By May 28th to All Training will be from 2:30 – 4:30 Deborah Friday May 2 May 16 May 23 802 Whitehall Circle, Columbia: Trenholm Road UMC, Charleston: Cokesbury UMC, Anderson: Trinity UMC, 1809 Florence, SC 29501 3401 Trenholm Road 4990 Dorchester Road, Charleston North Main Street, Anderson Orangeburg: St. Andrews UMC, Greenville: Mauldin UMC, 100 Florence: Highland Park, 1300 (843-661-7358) 1980 Columbia Road N E, East Butler Ave, Mauldin, SC 29662 Second Loop Road, Florence $13.50 Pay: Florence District Ministers’ Spouses Orangeburg. Spartanburg: St. James UMC, 213 Greenwood: Johnston UMC, 474 Reservations NOT taken at Conference Rock Hill: Philadelphia UMC, 1691 N Lanford Road, Spartanburg Lee Street, Johnston Nursery w/o lunch available with Highway 160 West, Fort Mill. Marion: Macedonia UMC, 402 Hartsville: Aldersgate UMC, 211 Walterboro: Bethel UMC, 355 North Main Street, Mullins Alice Drive, Sumter pre-registration Hampton Street, Walterboro Francis Burns to burn mortgage Francis Burns United Methodist McDowell Jr., will preach. Church has reached a milestone, All former pastors, as well as paying off of its mortgage in 15 ministers nurtured at/by Francis years. Burns have been invited to partici - Led by the senior pastor, Dr. pate as well as charter members, Thomas Bowman, Dr. Sheila Elliott families of deceased charter mem - and the Rev. John Pearson, Francis bers and early members. The church Burns will celebrate its accomplish - will publish a souvenir booklet. ment Sunday, May 30, at 4 p.m., District Superintendent Tim with a mortgage-burning ceremony McClendon will preach at 10 a.m. and reception. The entire UM fami - The Archives committee would ly is invited. Former pastor, Edward like to have copies of old photos. Page 18, May 2010 The South Carolina United Methodist Advocate Global News GBC&S cited on healthcare support Rethink message gets legs in California “I challenged all the pastors to aim to have NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UMNS) – The United SAN DIEGO (UMNS)-Take five United half their average worship attendance volunteer Methodist Board of Church and Society was Methodist congregations; add a dash of inspira - today,” Fisher said. hailed by House Speaker Nancy Pelosi for being tion, a pinch of imagination and 750 eager vol - Five congregations, three of whom worship a key supporter of a landmark vote on health unteers in red with fewer than 70 each week, met that goal. care. In remarks March 21, before legislators shirts; and you New Hope United Methodist Church, averaging approved legislation to provide medical coverage have “Impact 50 in worship, had 62 volunteers. to uninsured Americans, Pelosi referred to The San Diego,” a “One of my pastors has been calling this ‘ser - United Methodist Church as one of many organi - successful vice evangelism,’” Fisher said. “It’s the most zations “sending a clear message to members of Rethink Church natural way to share who we are. We let people Congress: ‘Say yes to health care reform.’” event. People of know The United Methodist Church is here, it’s “Speaker Pelosi was partially right: GBCS all ages from the healthy and we care about the community. I hope does support health-care reform, but not neces - congregations and the community gathered our churches are ready for company because I sarily the bill that passed,” said Richard Hearne, April 11 to receive and complete assignments think it’s coming after today.” chair of the North Texas Conference Board of and make a difference. Volunteers assisted older Laity. “Many persons think the bill went too far; adults in their homes, worked in elementary UMCOR releases final funds for Katrina, Rita others believe it didn’t go far enough. That is schools, repaired homes, installed a fence at a NEW YORK (UMNS) – After nearly five years something the political system will have to work wildlife refuge and cleaned yards and parks. of relief and recovery work in Gulf Coast states out.” affected by Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, the Green and Rethink Church become outreach United Methodist Committee on Relief has Marchers call for immigration reform TOPEKA, KAN. – Nearly 1,000 United released its final disbursement of funds for the WASHINGTON (UMNS) – “The time for com - Methodists and community volunteers beautified recovery effort. prehensive immigration reform is now,” United their corner of the world by converging on nine “Our work in Louisiana and Mississippi, like Methodist Bishop Minerva Carcaño proclaimed local parks for Hands On Topeka. our work in Haiti (following the Jan. 12 earth - to tens of thousands of protest marchers gathered A project of the Topeka District of The United quake), is based on our methodology of being in the nation’s capital March 21. The colorful, Methodist Church, Hands On Topeka was one of there for the long haul,” said the Rev. Tom noisy throng of marchers – parading with ban - three Rethink Church events occurring across the Hazelwood, an UMCOR executive. ners and marching bands – filled nearly five United States on April 11. blocks on the national mall near the U.S. Capitol. Last November, Topeka District UMCOR officials set relief model in Chile She and other speakers called for fair, humane, Superintendent Evelyn Fisher started dreaming SANTIAGO, CHILE (UMCOR) –After a week viable policies and procedures that would allow of how it would look for the 20 United of touring disaster sites in Chile, executives of about 11 million immigrants now in the United Methodist churches in Topeka to go into the the United Methodist Committee on Relief and States illegally to attain legal status while contin - community and a community-wide park cleanup General Board of Global Ministries will work uing to work and live with their families. was born. See Page 19 Classified Advertising 888-678-6272 • 803-786-9486

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Chime Systems • Stained Glass • Classroom Harbison Boulevard Columbia, SC 29212. Furniture • Office Furniture • Social Hall Furniture • Budget & Project Analysis • Project Management Advertising Rates Nu-Idea Property for Rent $19 per column inch Church Furnishings Advertising Deadline Sumter, South Carolina (for placing and removing) For Rent: Nice, fully furnished apartment at 1-800-922-0424 The 10th of the month prior to publication. Lake Junaluska, NC – two bedrooms, cable tv, If you have any questions, please call www.nu-idea.com $45 a night, 3-night minimum, one night Allison Trussell at 888-678-6272 or “Serving South Carolina’s churches since 1921” deposit. Call 828-456-8046. e-mail her, [email protected] The South Carolina United Methodist Advocate May 2010, Page 19 global news, cont’d Chile relief, continued ... according to the Rev. Helen Oates, superintend - out a “model” recovery plan with the Methodist ent of West Virginia Annual Conference’s Church of Chile. Southern District. The Apr. 5 explosion left 29 A broad outline of the plan was discussed on a dead; 25 confirmed immediately Holy Saturday meeting in Santiago after the and four confirmed after days of arduous search executives, Rev. Tom Hazelwood for UMCOR and recovery work that was suspended and Dakin Cook for GBGM’s Mission when gases in the mine reached toxic levels and Relationships office, traveled with Chile Bishop heavy smoke hampered searchers. Mario Martinez Tapia to towns and villages most When they arrived at the mine, the Rectors saw severely affected by the Feb. 27 earthquake and families sitting in small groups, looking out for JUST A SMALL SAMPLE – Boxes of health and other kinds of kits still pour into the S.C. Conference Center. tsunamis. one another. Food was being provided, and the As America’s first lady appealed to the world not to forget “Our response here can serve as a model for governor was there. Steve Rector asked someone Haiti, the United Methodist Committee on Relief backed a responding to disasters in other areas,” said if he could offer a hug. “Before we knew it, three-year, $10.4 million earthquake relief and recovery pro - Hazelwood. While financial support from con - everyone was lined up and began to give each gram for the ravaged nation. So far, more than 3,000 individuals have registered to vol - cerned United Methodists is critical, under this other hugs,” Susan said. unteer for future work team assignments to Haiti. Lee plan, U.S. congregations “would not see them - McMillan was selected by UMCOR/UMVIM to go in May. selves as donors only but as engaged in min - The UM church has collected $17.8 million for Haiti relief. Although “there was no escaping Good Friday,” amid the istry.” ( UMCOR’s Chile Emergency, UMCOR destruction, West Ohio Bishop Bruce Ough said, he also Advance #3021178) Catholics leaving the church found “many signs of resurrection” on site. One sign was Following the sex abuse scandal revolving the spirit and energy of the Rev. Gesner Paul, president of the Methodist Church in Haiti. In a video greeting to direc - UM pastors on hand for mine disaster around the pope of Roman Catholic Church, tors, Paul thanked United Methodists “for all that you have WEST VIRGINIA – Susan Rector (Trinity UMC 5,300 members have left their churches in a done for us in Haiti” and defined his church’s mission: “to be in Bluefield) and Steve Rector (Bluewell UMC) German diocese, and 56 percent of Germans say with those who are hopeless, those who are voiceless.” Haitian Methodists are determined to make their country a were among seven UM pastors at the Upper Big they have lost confidence in the Catholic Church, better place to live. “We are not losing hope because God is Branch coal mine in southern West Virginia, Newsweek reported. with us,” Paul declared. Resource Center By Betty Stalnaker 1. Living Fully: Bishop Rueben Job. suit. You can speak possibility from any position, in COMMUNICATING WITH COMPASSION (DVD5) 40 2. Theology of Aging: Rev. John Collett. any group of people, anywhere in the world. min./guide/1997. Karen Fox enlightens the viewer on 3. Our Culture’s View of Aging: Dr. Rick Gentzler. Experience stories and discover practices that will a step-by-step method for communicating with people 4. Finding Purpose and Meaning in Life: Rueben Job. transform you into the new kind of leader. This new who are ill, injured, isolated, or in 5. Getting it All Together: Dr. David Jarvis. kind of leadership is dynamic, transforming and evo - distress. She demonstrates four 6. Dying Well: Rueben Job. lutionary. It is an art that brings out creativity and key communication skills that 7. What Happens When We Die? Rueben Job. expression. It increases the resources of an institu - empower, encourage, bring hope, 8. How Then Shall We Live? A Life in Service: Laura tion immeasurably in terms of energy, flexibility, and and lift the spirit. This inspiring McCray; Making changes: The Bayers; Son’s story: speed of response to a fast-paced world. Age: YAS. training course can be used for Dr. Fred Allen; Staying active: Paul Manchester; and your church staff, viewing by fami - Dying well: Harry Brunson. Age: YAS. PURPOSE DRIVEN YOUTH MINISTRY lies, as a workshop for care groups (VHS1310) 5 sessions, 10-22 min./leader’s and Stephen’s Ministry groups, a EVERYDAY CREATIVITY guide/wbk/2000. If you are starting a new youth min - Sunday school lesson or other pro - (VHS181) 20 min./leader’s istry or if you want to take your existing youth ministry gramming of your church. guide/wbk/pp/1999. Look at the to the next level, this video series Age: YAS. ordinary and seeing the extraordi - is for you. It is designed to help nary. We all are faced with chal - the youth worker’s leadership LIVING FULLY DYING WELL (DVD172) 8 sessions, lenges – at work and at home. How team and volunteer staff team 8-22 min./leader’s guide/participant’s guide/2006. we view these challenges and devise build a ministry strategy together This resource, featuring Bishop Rueben Job, is their solutions can mean the differ - and become a cohesive team. designed to assist in making care - ence between just getting by and being successful. • Tap into the Power of God ful, wise and prayerful preparation Hosted by internationally known photojournalist • Chart the Course of Your for meeting life’s most important Dewitt Jones, the video teaches that we all have the Ministry moments. The study inspires us to ability to be more creative. Using inspirational stories, • Identify Your Target Audience talk openly about faith and mortali - memorable locations and Jones’ vivid photography, • Develop Purpose-Driven Programs ty. Topics include biblical and the resource will empower you to • Build a Healthy Leadership Team social perspectives on age and apply his simple, yet powerful, cre - Age: YAS. growing older, which practical ativity techniques to all aspects of legal decisions are important for life. Age: YAS. everyone, what happens when we die and how we can live each day to the fullest, starting LEADERSHIP: AN ART OF POS - The S.C. Conference Resource Center is your today. These sessions, led by sociologists, attorneys, SIBILITY (VHS165) 27 connection to VHS tapes, DVDs and seasonal physicians and Bishop Job, contain video segments min./leader’s guide/2000. To musicals. We are here to serve your church fam - that are approximately 8 to 10 minutes in length, speak possibility you do not have ily. To reserve resources, call 1-888-678-6272. except for Session 8 which is about 22 minutes. to be the top guy in the elegant www.umcsc.org/resourcecenter/index.html

HIPPTY-HOP, REACH-OUT – The Outreach Committee of Gilbert UMC, Gilbert, CHRISTIAN BEATS – Calvin Rikard, Allyson Martin, Ann Watkins and Belinda hosted a free Community Easter Egg Hunt March 28. It included the Easter story Rikard chaperoned a group of 22 UMYF teens from both St. Paul and Emory told through Resurrection Eggs, time with the Easter bunny, face-painting, an inflat - churches in Saluda to “Winter Jam” in Columbia, featuring Christian rock, rap and ed slide and the hunt for candy and prize eggs. (Photo special to the Advocate) contemporary bands. (Photo special to the Advocate ) Page 20, May 2010 The South Carolina United Methodist Advocate Obituaries Marion Salisbury Clark Jennie Lou Dewar Halsey Russell Jackson Hewitt Catherine Hill NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Marion GAINESVILLE, Fla. – Jennie Lou CONWAY – The Rev. Russell HARTSVILLE – Catherine Hill, sis - Salisbury Clark, wife of Bishop Roy Dewar Halsey, mother of Kathy Jackson Hewitt, father of Jackie ter of James Lee Miller, died April Clark, died April 12, 2010. Bishop Bostrom, died April 8, 2010. Mrs. Fenner, died April 9, 2010. Mrs. 7, 2010. Mr. Miller is the husband Clark was the presiding bishop of Bostrom is the wife of the Rev. Phil Fenner is the wife of the Rev. Jack of the Rev. Blondell Miller, pastor the United Methodist Conference of Bostrom, pastor of the Plum Branch Fenner, a retired member of the of the Lynchburg Parish, Lynchburg. South Carolina from 1980 to 1988. Charge, Greenwood District. United Methodist Conference of Funeral services were held April 10 Funeral services were held April Funeral services were held April South Carolina. at Mount Tema Baptist Church. 16 at West End United Methodist 13 at First United Methodist Funeral services were held April Church. Church, with burial in Forest 11 at Goldfinch Funeral Home, Geneva Blount Rouse Memorials may be made to West Meadows East. Conway Chapel, with burial in ORANGEBURG – Geneva Blount End UMC Day School, 2200 West Memorials may be made to the Hillcrest Cemetery. Rouse, widow of the Rev. Hiram B. End Ave., Nashville, TN 37203- Florida United Methodist Children’s Memorials may be sent to Rouse, died March 19, 2010. 5290; or Interfaith Dental Clinic, Home, 51 Children’s Way, Springfield Baptist Church, 246 Funeral services were held March 1721 Patterson St., Nashville, TN Enterprise, FL 32725; or to First Springfield Church Road, Loris, SC 24 at Trinity United Methodist 37203-2925. United Methodist Church for min - 29569; or to Riverside Baptist Church. Mrs. Clark is survived by her istries with the elderly, 419 N.E. Church, 2105 Wilderness Lane, Mrs. Rouse is survived by her husband and four stepdaughters. First St., Gainesville, FL 32601. Conway, SC 29526. daughter. Mrs. Halsey is survived by her The Rev. Mr. Hewitt is survived Beatrice Byers “Bea” three daughters and son. by his three sons and two daughters. Allen Claude Washington Gallman JERSEY CITY, N.J. – Allen Claude GREENVILLE – Beatrice Byers Lawrence Franklyn Bettie Bowman Hicks Washington, brother of the Rev. “Bea” Gallman, mother of Martha Haywood Sr. SUMTER – Bettie Bowman Hicks, Jack Washington, died April 2, Alewine, died March 20, 2010. Mrs. ORANGEBURG – Lawrence sister of Dr. Thomas J. Bowman and 2010. The Rev. Mr. Washington is Alewine is the wife of the Rev. Franklyn Haywood Sr., brother of Dr. Timothy J. Bowman, died the pastor of Mount Zion United Barrett Alewine, pastor of St. Mark Cole B. Haywood and Earline March 29, 2010. Dr. Thomas Methodist Church, Kingstree. United Methodist Church, Haywood Ulmer, died April 1, Bowman is the pastor of Francis Funeral services were held April Greenwood. 2010. Mr. Cole Haywood is the hus - Burns United Methodist Church, 9 at St. Michael’s Methodist Funeral services were held March band of the Rev. Velma M. Columbia. Dr. Timothy Bowman is Church, with burial in Arlington 22 at St. Mark UMC, with burial in Haywood, pastor of the Easley the pastor of Old Bethel UMC, Cemetery, Kearny, N.J. Greenville Memorial Gardens Charge, Easley. Ms. Ulmer serves as Charleston. Mr. Washington is survived by Mausoleum. the chair of Connectional Ministries. Funeral services were held April his wife, Naomi Washington, five Memorials may be sent to First Funeral services were held April 8 6 at West End Community Church, daughters and four sons. Baptist Church Greenville, 847 at North Orangeburg United with burial in Hillside Memorial Obituary policy: Cleveland St., Greenville, SC Methodist Church, with burial in Gardens. The Advocate prints death 29601; or to St. Mark UMC, 550 Belleville Memorial Gardens. Memorials may be made to the notices of clergy and their imme - Hwy. 72 Bypass NW, Greenwood, Mr. Haywood is survived by his American Cancer Society, P.O. Box diate families and laypersons SC 29649. wife, Ida Tate Haywood, three sons 22718 , Oklahoma City, OK 73123- who have served on conference 1718. boards and agencies or who work Mrs. Gallman is survived by her and daughter. for the United Methodist daughter and son. Conference of South Carolina. Wofford to dedicate Goodall Environmental Center Wofford College dedicated its tions. first off-site campus, Goodall The center has two laboratories – Environmental Studies Center , April the Auto Bell Car Wash Laboratory 20, as a highlight to the college’s and the B.G. Stephens Laboratory – Earth Week activities. for research ranging from toxicolo - Other activities include an Earth gy studies in biology and chemistry Day Bike, Run and Thoreauvian courses to natural history surveys of Saunter to Glendale Shoals; an flora and fauna. Earth Week Forum; and a Lawson’s A large deck is planned for class - Fork Water Monitoring Day. es, seminars and other activities, Wofford graduate and trustee D. and a garden is under construction. Christian Goodall has made the lead It will contain a pollinator garden, a gift for the college’s environmental native grape vineyard, a bog, and studies center, which now bears his herb, berry and heirloom vegetable family’s name. Goodall is a 1979 beds. The garden will be open to the Wofford graduate. public and available for classroom The Goodall Environmental use. Studies Center , overlooking the FROM AN OLD MILL OFFICE – to classrooms, lab space and more at Lawson’s Sustainability features incorporat - Lawson’s Fork of the Pacolet River Fork Creek, Glendale. The rehabilitated building is part of a textile mill that ed into the building restoration and burned, and its tower is still standing. (Photo special to the Advocate ) and set in the historic textile mill renovation include state-of-the-art town of Glendale, is the hub for the-art facility is in many ways be working with students and facul - efficient heating and air-condition - Wofford’s environmental studies. unique in both its location and its ty on the river at Glendale for many ing systems, employment of creek “At Wofford College, the ‘envi - programs,” Dunlap said. generations to come.” water for dual-flush commodes, and ronment’ is not an abstract con - John Lane, director of the center The central great room is a gath - use of some of the building’s origi - cept,” said President Benjamin and associate professor of English ering place for students, faculty and nal furnishings. Dunlap. “It’s where we live; it’s at Wofford, notes that in environ - community members to learn about Goodall, also a graduate of the where we’re going to live; and, mental studies “we understand the such topics as environmental writ - Cumberland School of Law at thanks to the Goodall family, it’s importance of ‘long-range research ing, sustainable living and the histo - Samford University, has served on also where we’re going to study. and reflection.’ It takes time to ry, geography and culture of the Wofford’s Alumni Executive “We currently offer the state’s know a place and to understand it. Glendale community. A library and Council and now is on its board of only undergraduate major in envi - Thanks to the generosity of the office space house program materi - trustees and the President’s ronmental studies, and our state-of- Goodall gift to our program, we will als and serve as a base of opera - Advisory Board. The South Carolina United Methodist Advocate May 2010, Page 21 UMW takes on legislation, environment, trafficking By Emily Cooper world is active, not passive. The LEXINGTON – Breathe easier – UM has always taken the lead in unless you’re a legislator. The helping the church to get that. We United Methodist Women are at cannot be just observers. The Lord work in the state. has the expectation that we be fruit- At its 2010 Legislative Day, bearers. You have been reminding spearheaded by Social Action us that we must put hands and feet Chairperson Rebecca Rochester, of to work.” Antioch in Rock Hill, almost 300 Nelson, a congregational special - women were given information that ist and African-American coordina - could take them in many directions tor, said the UM church has not to bring about change, beginning in learned there is a partnership their own homes and churches and between the clergy and the UMW. ending at the Statehouse and the “You’re a baptized minister. Take U.S. Capitol. the authority that’s been given you.” “I’m incensed that we’re taking Environment dollars from our children and giving Lil Mood, a member of Chapin it for a golf tournament,” legislative UMC and a former DHEC staffer, action speaker Brenda Kneece said. encouraged the women to do a little Talking about dwindling resources, digging. “A 40’ tree can reduce the the S.C. Christian Action Council’s PASSION MIXES WITH ENTERTAINMENT – Brenda Kneece, executive minister carbon footprint by 13 tons of car - for the S.C. Christian Action Council, begins her talk to UMW leaders from across executive minister said, “We should bon dioxide. the state with a lively tongue-twister story as Social Action Chair Rebecca not be taking my tax dollars to pay Mood confessed she had been Rochester takes her seat at the Legislative Day. (Photo by Emily Cooper) for private schools.” pleased when she measured her own Noting the meeting at Mount carbon footprint and compared it to UM Women “forerunners,” who are products made by child slave labor Horeb UMC was in Rep. Joe the U.S. average of 27 tons of CO 2 called to get people to pay attention. in foreign countries, sometimes by Wilson’s district, she said hundreds per year – until she put it in the per - She cited her local church that American businesses. Estimates are, of thousands of people in the dis - spective the world average, 5.5 tons sends e-bulletins to more than a she said, that 27 to 200 million are trict will benefit from the healthcare per year. third of its congregation each week living in slavery today, more than law. “Why wouldn’t we want chil - Mood said. “We’re all intercon - and, including the bulletins passed were taken out of Africa during a dren to have health care?” nected.” out on Sundays, that saves about period of 400 years. As to the state’s low tobacco tax, “We’ve built our travel ways for $6,000 that can be used for better “Not every undocumented worker Kneece asked, “Why do we not cars,” Mood said, suggesting “walk - purposes and prevents another is here by choice,” Johnson said. make cancer expensive?” ing school buses and renewed focus seven to eight feet of paper from Look for employees who arrive at “The only place there is an apti - on bike paths. “One train car can being added to the 17-foot stack of work together in a van, who live tude and an attitude (for change) is take 200 cars off the road.” paper used every year. together, who are always looking in the arena of faith,” Kneece said. What one person does affects the The church, Washington Street in over their shoulders or restaurants Ninety-six percent of human DNA world. And Nancy Whittle, with Columbia, recycles its Sunday bul - who have a new foreign wait staff is the same, she said as she spoke of DHEC as liaison with the communi - letins, and altogether it is saving every six months. racism. “I don’t need to know more ty, gave an example of how one per - about 2/3rds of a ton of paper a “The sex trade industry is huge,” science or more history; I need to son – S.C. Rep. Harold Mitchell in year. Paper can be recycled five to Johnson said. “Not all prostitutes ask, ‘What would Jesus do?’” this case – can effect change. seven times, Cooper said. are willing participants. Fifty per - Advocacy Mitchell took note of the mortali - Paper plants are large sources of cent of the world’s child pornogra - People say, “the church ought not ty and sickness in his community noxious air pollutants. If you’re phy originates here.” be involved in politics,” the Rev. where a former fertilizer plant given worried about costs the proposed If you observe suspicious behav - Ken Nelson said. “I’ve got news for a “clean closure” record and a U.S. Climate Security Act (Cap and ior, contact your local police, you: Jesus was involved in politics.” chemical-laden landfill, and created Trade) are said to generate for con - Immigration and Customs Founder John Wesley held together Regenesis, an organization to stop sumers, Cooper asked the UMW to Enforcement (1-866-DHS-2-ICE) or social witness and holiness, he said. the environmental racism. consider that Americans are spend - S.C. Legal Aide, Johnson suggested. “Methodists have a strong history Emily Cooper, editor of the S.C. ing close to $15 billion annually on She told about a N.C. woman who, of advocacy. … God’s love for the United Methodist Advocate, said allergy medications. from the window over her sink, Human Trafficking observed men going in and out of a Sandra Johnson, president of trailer on her neighbor’s farm and Triad Ladder of Hope in High decided to call the law. The result Point, N.C., shocked her audience was the end of a sex trafficking ring with the raw fact of human traffick - that ran the length of the East Coast. ing: a 14-year-old sold as many as Mission 32 times a day or a mega-church Bill Andress, with the Sudan pastor and his wife returning from Advocacy Forum, showed slides of abroad with a young girl they “res - living conditions and talked of his cued,” who was really their slave group’s effort to forge a just and labor for years. lasting peace in Sudan. He preached The average cost of a slave is where 850 people were massacred $90, Johnston said. “In essence we last year. They are helping to train drive the slave trade” by consuming Sudanese teachers.

TOP HONOR – Scout Leader Jim Bradshaw, of Lyttleton Street UMC, and Ileana Arvelo, Community Development Manager of Kershaw County, Girl Scouts of South Carolina, present Girl Scout Leader Susan White (center) with the God and Service Award, a national recognition. White is the first Girl Scout Leader to earn this national award in Kershaw County. Girl Scout Troop 2238, Cub Pack 303 and Boy Scout Troop 303’s youth and adults participated in Lyttleton’s special services. The church has supported scouting since April 16, 1950. (Photo special to the Advocate ) Page 22, May 2010 The South Carolina United Methodist Advocate International Bible School Lessons empty deceit, according to human tradi - stop and go at his command. The play - steps, speaks of himself as a slave for By the Rev. Mack tion, according to the elemental spirits of ful and inattentive children would Christ and is calling on Philemon to McClam the universe, and not according to move at his signal. practice forgiveness and begin a new The Rev. Mr. McClam is Christ. Colossians 2:8 (NRSV) Paul makes an abrupt change in the relationship with his brother in Christ. pastor of Canaan and tenor of his letter to the Colossians My friends, I am sure that if the Sandhill UMCs in the Watch your steps while walking this congregation and here greets them in a church today would receive the deliver - Walterboro District Christian journey lest you stray into the most honored Old Testament fashion, ing powers available to us in the activi - foreign lands of philosophies and tradi - “As God’s chosen ones, holy and ties of the Holy Spirit, we ourselves, May 2, 2010 tions. beloved ...” Col. 3:12. There are no like Paul, would be set free to liberate A Faithful Community This is the warning I hear the apostle strong words of warning against any the Onesimus(es) we meet, and encour - Lesson Scripture: Colossians 1:1-14 Paul issuing to the Christians in the ungodly thoughts or humanist philoso - age the Philemon(s) we know. The Background Scripture: Colossians 1 Colossians church. I hasten to add that phy as a substitute for theology and church, as in Colosse, would grow. Key Verse: “For this reason, since the we who seek to walk in this way of life faith in Christ. What a change! After Are there persons with whom you day we heard it, we have not ceased must hear afresh Paul’s warning to us the much-honored greeting, Paul seems need to be reconciled? Have you for - praying for you and asking that you today. As I survey my pastoral ministry to commend the church for taking off given those who trespass against you? may be filled with the knowledge of across the years – and the years have so the clothes of the surrounding commu - Oh, by the way, you don’t have to God’s will in all spiritual wisdom and quickly become many – I am continu - nity and admonishes them to dress watch the reruns of The Odd Couple, a understanding.” Colossians 1:9 (NRSV) aly amazed at how easy it is for some themselves in the attire of the Gospel. I new series could be coming soon to a A little knowledge can be hazardous persons who are strong in the faith to hear Paul saying that if you’re going to community near you. to your faith! This could have been the lose their way and become caught up in join this Man’s army then you need to Talk about the “odd couple” – Jesus rallying cry of Paul as he wrote to the some new theology that is in reality put on the Jesus-issued outfit so that and me. human philosophy and tradition. Some you may be properly clothed as you little Colossians church. The members May 30, 2010 very intelligent people are easily mis - engage in spiritual warfare. The ever of this congregation were surrounded At Risk in the Community led into thinking that a healthy and existing battle between good and evil, by folks who believed that the Lesson Scripture: Jude 3:7, 19-25 prosperous life can be theirs through God’s will for us verses our will for Colossians were on track by having Background Scripture: Jude correct and positive thinking. ourselves, is raging high. The children faith in Christ, but that they also need - Key Verse: And have mercy on some To this country preacher this new and the elderly are being abused; our ed to “know” more in order to effect who are wavering; save others by positive thinking sounds a lot like old teens are awfully confused; the young their salvation. This community had snatching them out of the fire; and have Gnostic system. Let me try to speak adults and middle-aged are in such pur - embraced the Gnostic system that mercy on still others with fear, hating plainly. You can never attain through suit of the “good life” that’s spelled called for a special understanding and even the tunic defiled by their bodies. human thought, reasoning and effort “Success ,” that the abundant life passes “knowledge” to serve God. Paul knew Jude 1:22-23 (NRSV) truths about God that can only be them by. that this was a great threat to this strug - The warning to beware of false revealed by God Himself. God has Well, I have to go now; so, please gling congregation. Notice that the teachings needs to broadcast through given us all the revelation of Himself pardon me as I get dressed. Lord, will first thing that Paul does is to pray on every means possible by every Christ- that we can stand in the person of Jesus you give me a suit of compassion to the church’s behalf, “that you may be ian church. False teachers are very Christ. Do you want to know God? wear today? May I have a shirt of kind - filled with the knowledge of God’s will zealous for cause and the church cannot Then, you must meet Jesus. Do you ness and a matching tie of humility? A in all spiritual wisdom and understand - afford to become too casual in present - want to walk in the footsteps of Jesus? hat of meekness might keep my head in ing.” ing Christ to the world. Teachers who Then, you must wholly listen to and be check. And please, Lord, as I step out How you pray is very important. are strong in Christ have a responsibili - totally yielded to the voice and teach - into this hurry-up, right-now, me-first Eleven years ago I went to Oklahoma ty to other members who have started ings of the Holy Spirit. world, give me shoes of patience to City to visit my younger brother, the journey and have not yet reached How can a creature by acquiring walk this journey. David, his wife, Vernessa, and their the level of faith in Christ needed to greater knowledge of the creation dis - two young children, Reggie and Kim. May 23, 2010 continue. Jude’s message is clear. cover the ultimate truth concerning the Vernessa had been diagnosed with A t Home in the Community To tell you how many television Creator? This kind of pursuit for God colon cancer and the progression of the Lesson Scripture: Philemon 8-18,21 channels were available to us when my by man is futile. Mankind always has disease moved rapidly. When Vernessa Background Scripture: Philemon family’s first TV was lifted out the been on a quest to understand the mys - and I were alone in conversation and Key Verse : Confident of your obedi - Sears delivery truck would probably tery of God; however, he has always prayer as I sat by her bedside, I told her ence, I am writing to you, knowing that date me too much. Watching TV then started at the wrong point and is not of a vision of a healing ministry that you will do even more than I say. was a privilege extended only when the willing to change his course. was shared with me prior to accepting Philemon 1:21 (NRSV) day’s work was done. One popular Jesus says it so clearly, “No one my call to ministry. I expressed to her Talk about the “odd couple,” Paul, sport event was Friday night boxing. It comes to the Father but by me.” that I had been praying that if this min - an apostolic officer, and now a prison - is amazing the scenes that are clearest istry of healing were ever going to be er, and Onesimus, a possible runaway in my memory of those boxing matches May 16, 2010 realized, I ask God to heal her now. slave, and now a Christian. The text are the ones that showed the activity in A Chosen Community The roles quickly switched and I does not tell us how they met or how the each boxer’s corner between the Lesson Scripture: Colossians 3:12-17 was no longer the minister as Vernessa they became friends. We do know that rounds. The boxer’s opponent would Background Scripture: Colossian 3 ministered to me. She began with a Paul was not confined to a typical meet him in the center of the ring and Key Verse: As God’s chosen ones, phrase that was to change my life as a Roman jail cell; he was under house- the fight would begin. But when the holy and beloved, clothe yourselves Christian and a minister forever; arrest which made it possible to preach referee rang the bell and the fighter with compassion, kindness, humility, “Mack, it’s not God’s will to heal me and to teach as folks came and went. returned to his own corner someone meekness, and patience. Colossians that way this time.” She spoke with a Onesimus was most likely converted quickly put out his stool for him, 3:12 (NRSV) calmness, a peace and a certainty that I by Paul, and the foundation for a close another attended to his bruises, and will never have words to describe. “Clothes Makes the Man,” if memo - personal relationship was laid. It another would pour water on his head The best place in this world to be is ry serves me correctly, was the title of appears that Philemon, a leader in the and wipe it with a towel. My point is in the will of God. When and how have a short story in one of my grade church at Colosse, was Paul’s friend the boxer never had to fight in his cor - you prayed for your church? What is it school’s literature books. As I recall, it and Onesimus’ owner. Paul may have ner. you ask God to do for your church? was a story about a man in a communi - advised Onesimus to face his problem We Christians are engaged in spiritu - There is a spiritual song that I love to ty who was not held in the highest and return to his rightful owner accord - al warfare in the world daily, but when sing sometimes that makes this request: regards by people of his small home - ing to Roman’s law. we return to our corners we don’t Teach me Master, teach me. Teach town. No one gave him much respect at Apparently Onesimus took Paul’s expect to be hit, kicked and bruised. me how to pray. When I bow at the all, not even the children. This man had advice and returned to Colosse bearing We will have no energy to fight the altar, Lord teach me what to say. a part-time job he loved for more rea - a letter addressed to Philemon and the battle in the world if we are getting Thy kingdom come thy will be done. sons than one. It seemed that his great church at large. The apostle could not whipped in our corner. Amen. joy would come when it was time to go miss this opportunity to “ask,” not My friends, I hear another warning to work. He would dress in his uniform “insist”(love is never forced), Philemon and this one is for the teachers who are May 9, 2010 with his shoes all shined and the badge to receive Onesimus back as a strong in the faith: Don’t think for a An Established Community would sparkle on his chest. Now all of Christian brother. Can you see it? A moment you are able to maintain your - Lesson Scripture: Colossians 2:1-10 a sudden, this man – unnoticed by the rich slave-owner and a fugitive slave self or help anyone on your own. You Background Scripture: Colossian 2:1- traffic on the streets and laughed at by are now embracing before the rejoicing need the power, prescience and witness 19 the children – could blow his whistle congregation. Philemon and Onesimus of the Holy Spirit to answer the bell Key Verse: See to it that no one takes and raise his hand and drivers who look like another “odd couple.” and return to center ring and continue you captive through philosophy and hardly noticed him minutes ago would Paul, following in his master’s foot - the fight. The South Carolina United Methodist Advocate May 2010, Page 23 Epworth donations near goal; lots of non-givers Epworth Children’s Home moved tributed an average of $47.78. St. John, Bethel, Darlington; Twitty , Clover; Heath Chapel, Great Falls; close to meeting its goal of $6 per Kelly bell, Mount Beulah, New Hope, Mount Vernon, Hickory Grove; First, In the Florence District, churches S.C. United Methodist this year, Hartsville; Hopewell, Mount Elon, Kershaw; Camp Creek, Lynwood, giving an average of less than a $1 with overall average gifts of $5.76. Sandy Grove, Wesley Chapel, Grace, Lancaster; Bethel, Catawba; per member or zero in 2009 were: Jefferson; Ebenezer, John Wesley, Harmony, Edgemoor; and Hopewell The larger the church, the smaller Bethesda/Kingstree, Bethesda/Cades, the contribution it appears. Some Sandy Grove, Lamar-Ebenezer and Wesley, York. Cameron, Faith, Cades; Cumberland, Charge; Mount Joshua, Ridgeway; Rock Hill District’s churches hav - very small churches’ contributions Bowers Chapel, Mount Zion, Salem, were remarkable. Mount Prospect, Lugof; Clark, ing the best average gifts per member Wesley, Florence; Long Branch, Sumter; Mount Moriah, Mayesville; were Richburg UMC, $29.12; Shady While districts surrounding Wilson Chapel, Greeleyville; Brown’s St. Mark, Emmanuel and St. Mark, Grove UMC at Sharon, $27.78; and Epworth might appear to have more Chapel, Trinity, Vox Memorial, Sumter; and Bethel, Ebenezer, First UMC at Clover, $16.72. reason to support the children’s Johnsonville; Elijah, Friendship, Friendship and Mount Cr oghan, all in home, Epworth President John Jeremiah, Mount Seal, Kennedyville, Ruby. In the Spartanburg District, Holler said there are children being Beulah, Asbury, Bethel, Mount Zion, The largest averages per member in churches giving an average of less cared for from 11 of the 12 United St. Mary, St. Michael, St. Paul, the Hartsville District were Ashland than a $1 per member or zero in 2009 Methodist districts now and all dis - Kingstree; Ninevah, Lake Point, UMC, Bishopville, with 22 members, were: Campobello; Fingerville, tricts have had children there during Wesley Chapel, Lake City; and $104.55 average per member; Inman; Friends in Christ, Chesnee; the past year. Lynchburg, St. Luke, Trinity in Mount Olivet in Cheraw, $29.79; and Hebron, Pauline; Startex, Lynchburg, New Haven, St. Paul at Bethlehem, Hartsville, $16.57. Spartanburg; Limestone Street, In the Anderson District , churches Elliott, St. Paul at Bishopville; Gaffney; Beaumont, Ben Avon, giving an average of less than a $1 Warren Chapel, Lynchburg; St. Paul, In the Marion District, churches Cherokee Springs, Liberty, Church of per member or zero in 2009 were: Nesmith; Trinity of New Zion; St. giving an average of less than a $1 the Covenant, Silver Hill Memorial, Emmanuel, Mount Pleasant, Mount Paul, Coward; Andrews Chapel, per member or zero in 2009 were: Skylyn, Arcadia, Allen Chapel, Sinai, Marshall Memorial, Thompson Pinewood, Pinewood; St. John, Level Green, Old Galilee, Shiloh of Spartanburg; Florence Chapel, Centenniel, New Hope, Anderson; St. Scranton; St. John, Shiloh; and Mount Bennettsville, Ebenezer, Marlboro; Wellford; Pleasant View, Cowpens; James, Union Grove, Belton; Calhoun Zion and St. Luke at Timmonsville. Shiloh-Smyrna Charge, St. Michael, and Loree, Wellford. Falls, Bethesda, Easley Chapel, John The Florence District’s highest Trinity, Bennettsville; Asbury, Old Roebuck UMC was the top contrib - Wesley, St. Paul, Easley; Donalds, donor-averages were found at Clio, Berea, Clio; New El Bethel, utor for the Spartanburg District, Honea Path; Ruhamah, Iva; Sharon, Paxville UMC in Pinewood with Christ, Joseph B. Bethea, Salem, averaging $88.03 for each of its 65 Abbeville; Pelzer, Beulah, Pelzer; $40.88; Earle UMC in Andrews, Conway; Beulah, St. Luke, St. members; $22.55 at Cannon’s Bethel, Central, Pendleton; Robinson $39.06; and Elim UMC in Lamar, Stephen, Bowling Green, McCoy Campground UMC in Spartanburg, Chapel, Pickens; New Harmony, $34.22. Chapel, New Holly, Dillon; Oak and $17.25 at Duncan UMC. Seneca; Fairfield, Golden Grove and Grove, Sampit, Georgetown; Lake In the Greenville District, church - Moores Chapel, Williamston. View, Andrews Chapel, Latta; In the Walterboro District, In the Anderson District, the most es giving an average of less than a $1 Ebenezer, Wampee, Loris; Bethel, per member or zero in 2009 were: churches giving an average of less generous to Epworth were Walhalla’s Pleasant Grove, Springville, Marion; than a $1 per member or zero in 2009 Zion UMC with an average of $93.75 Lebanon, Honea Path; Allen View, Pine Grove, McColl; Center, Beulah, Reidville; Francis Asbury, Laurel were: New Hope, Simpson, Allendale; given by its eight members; Ebenezer Shiloh, Mullins; Brown Chapel, Union, Barnwell; Johns Chapel, UMC in Anderson, averaging $50.50 Creek, Greenville; Bethel and St. Heaven Gate, St. James, Murrells Paul, Greer Circuit; Woods Chapel, Yemassee; Broomfield, Beaufort; per member; and Double Springs Inlet; Floyds, Nichols; and Ebenezer, Fisher Chapel, Hardeeville; Jericho, UMC, Westminster, averaging $38.35. Greer; Augusta Road, Pelzer; Advent, Tatum. Hopewell, Simpsonville; St. Mark, Wesley Grove, Cottageville; Hartsville District churches with Macedonia, Ridgeville; Oak Grove, In the Charleston District, church - Mount Carmel and St. Luke at the highest per-member-average were Travelers Rest. Ridgeville; St. John, Dorchester; es giving an average of less than a $1 Macedonia UMC in Mullins at Ebenezer, Olar; Rizer’s Chapel, St. per member or zero in 2009 were: When donations were averaged in $51.69; Central UMC in Marion, the Greenville District, Fews Chapel James, Friendship, St. Luke, Ehrhardt; Centenary, Charleston Korean, Mount $35.00; and Mount Andrew UMC in Lodge; Zion, Branchville; Toby, Carmel,New Francis Brown, Old UMC, Greer, was on top with $79.86 Latta, $27.65. among its 63 members. Trinity UMC, Islandton; Jerusalem, St. Daniel, Bethel, Washington, Jerusalem, Zion, Harleyville; Morris Chapel, at Gray Court, averaged $69.83 with In the Orangeburg District, Greater St. Paul, New Hope, Steward Dorchester; Canaan, Sand Hill, New 29 members; and Bethel in churches giving an average of less Chapel, Zion, Huger; New Hope, Hope, Ridgeville; St. Paul, Ravenel; Greenville, $49.49 with 49 members. than a $1 per member or zero in 2009 Jamestown; New Webster, St. James, Red Root, Buckhead, Ruffin; Sykes were: Wesley, Aiken; Mount Zion at Wesley, Johns Island; Wesley, In the Greenwood District, Savannah, Lodge; Mount Pleasant, Bamberg; Claflin; Mount Carmel, Ladson; Centenary at Moncks Corner, churches giving an average of less Walterboro; Hickory Hill, Bamberg; Wightman, New Covenant, Ebenezer, Joshua, Moncks Corner; than a $1 per member or zero in 2009 Springtown, Smoaks; New Grace, St. Pineville, St. Stephen, Bowman; Wesley in Pinopolis; Jehovah, New were: Bethlehem, Harris, Lupo George Shady Grove, St. Mark, Canaan, Cope; Edisto Fork, Light, St. Stephens; Enoch Chapel, Memorial, Mathews, at Greenwood; Trinity, St. George; Bethel, Red Orangeburg; Franklin, Denmark; Grove Hall, Murray, Wesley, Branch Hill, Republican, McCormick; Bank, Walterboro; Bethel, Heaven Orange Grove, Bamberg; Wesley Summerville; and Wesley on Younges Martha’s Chapel, Chappells; Mays, Gate, Trinity, Green Pond; Ebenezer, Chapel, Jackson; Saint Mark, North; Island. Cambridge at Ninety Six; Epworth, Yemassee; Salem, New Life, Mount North Orangeburg, Orangeburg; The most generous of Charleston Joanna; Springdale, Clinton; Caper’s Carmel, Peniel, Cumberland and Bethlehem, St. Matthews; Mount churches were Edisto Island UMC Chapel, Little Mountain; Sandy Isaiah, Walterboro. Nebo, St. John, Woodford; Cedar with an average of $52.44 per mem - Springs, Calvary, Mount Carmel, Major Epworth donors for the Grove, St. Stephen, Orangeburg; ber; Ravenel UMC, averaging $37.94 Laurens; and St. Paul at Plum Branch. Walterboro District are Gillette UMC Forest Chapel, Rowesville; Bethel, among its 17 members; and Wrens Top honors in Greenwood District in Allendale, with 24 members and an Orangeburg; Central, Prospect, Chapel UMC, McClellanville, $26. were garnered by Warrenville UMC average per member of $221.83; Rowesville; Mayes Chapel, 67. with $40.14 average per member; Cypress UMC at Ridgeville, $181.33; Branchville; Beulah, Gaston; Mount Soule Chapel UMC at Cross Hill, and TrinityUMC at Ridgeville, In the Columbia District, churches Zion, Swansea; Oak Grove, Swansea; $35.76; and Nazareth UMC, $58.95. Just behind Trinity is Wesley giving an average of less than a $1 and Blackville. Batesburg, $31.64. Chapel UMC, Ehrhardt, with $51.53 per member or zero in 2009 were: Churches out-shining others in the per member. Bluff Road, Francis Burns, Wesley, In the Hartsville District, churches Orangeburg District were St. Paul Columbia; and Boiling Springs in giving an average of less than a $1 UMC in New Ellenton, contributing Lexington. per member or zero in 2009 were: an average of $128.31 per member; The district average contributions Generous givers were in the New Haven, Mount Zion,Bishopville; Cameron UMC, $50; and Clinton per member were: Columbia, $8.15; Fairfield Circuit with Cedar Creek Spring Hill, Rembert; Mechanicsville, UMC in Salley, $46.84. Orangeburg, $7.84; Greenwood, UMC’s seven members averaging Sumter; Emmanuel, St. Matthew, $7.20; Walterboro, $5.95; Marion, $57.14 and Bethel UMC, Winnsboro, Good Hope Wesley Chapel, St. Paul, In the Rock Hill District, churches $5.76; Spartanburg District, $5.56; with 135 members and an average Rock Spring, St. Peter, Camden; giving an average of less than a $1 Rock Hill, $5.39; Greenville, $4.76; $33.09, placing them at the Columbia Mount Zion, Cheraw; Wilkes Chapel, per member or zero in 2009 were: Anderson, $4.66; Florence, $4.36; District’s third highest. Zion UMC’s Patrick; Mount Tabor, Chesterfield; Wesley Memorial, Chester; Green Hartsville, $4.26; and Charleston, 18 members in Blythewood con - New Providence, Shiloh, St. James, Pond, Mount Harmony, Kershaw; $4.18. Page 24, May 2010 The South Carolina United Methodist Advocate Churches come together to offer free medical care The people of Berkeley County betes, they have also dealt with Members of Eccles, Berea, New If you’d like to assist or visit the have a volunteer health clinic to tumors, seizures and cancers. Light, Mount Nebo, St. Stephen, clinic, call 843-825-3550. visit when the need arises. Working with Trident Hospital in Smyrna, Jehovah, Rehobeth, and The Sumpter Free Health Clinic Moncks Corner, Roper Berkeley Pinopolis United Methodist church - opened its doors in December 2009 and MUSC, the clinic has been able es; St. Stephen First Baptist, St. “If you ever wondered what the Bible would sound like if it were in rural St. Stephen with one doctor, to go beyond diagnosing and has Stephen Episcopal; Pointe North written by Ogden Nash (and who one nurse and several volunteers been successful in getting further non-denominational; and Victory hasn’t?) here it is, Charlie Barrett’s who were excited to be providing care for its patients. Baptist serve on the clinic’s board religious rhymes.” William H. Willimon free health care to those with no Today the clinic is staffed by two or as volunteers. health insurance. doctors, two physician assistants, 20 Although the community was Funny Things Can Happen On While the health officials and nurses and more than 100 volun - mistrustful at first, volunteers have Your Way through the Bible volunteers expected to diagnose and teers and is open the first three noticed patients making return visits by C.D. Barrett is now available from the treat high blood pressure and dia - Tuesdays of every month. and trust that they are receiving the publisher, WipfandStock.com* same professional care they would or through Cokesbury, Amazon, at a doctor’s office. and other on-line booksellers. This ministry began 25 years ago (*Orders from publisher are dis- when a vision was placed on the counted: single copy 20%, five or more 40%) heart of one of the board members. As the appropriate time was “With wit and wisdom Charlie revealed to her – God stepped in to Barrett invites us to think deeply and laugh joyfully as he unveils not only lead the way, but take the humor of Scripture and the complete charge of this clinic. God who laughs. His impish “Our goals are huge – but they chrymes are mirrors that help us see ourselves as the clowns we are are truly God’s goals and there is no and experience the grace of the doubt they will be reached,” said Christ who smiles.” Judy Burke, a founder and board Bishop M.L. (Jack) Meadors member and wife of the Rev. Bill “I am immensely gratified to read Burke of the Berkeley Circuit. “We the delightful work of my aim for health, financial, parenting colleague Dr. Barrett … With detective cunning he has searched and spiritual education for the most the Scriptures and identified rural areas of this huge county. We humor all over the place. In this he aim for free meals as they wait their goes far beyond earlier treatments of the topic by such writers as turn to see the doctor. We aim for Elton Trueblood, Webb Garrison, drug and alcohol rehab. We aim for and Jacob Klausner.” JohnM. Bullard, Albert C. Outler Prof. DOING WELLNESS – Dr. John Swicord (right), a member of Moncks Corner free medication for all prescriptions. emeritus of Religion, Wofford UMC who donated equipment, instruments and supplies when he retired and was In five years, we aim for a full-time, College the only physician for a while, confers with Dr. Stuart Owens as volunteers work four-exam-room clinic, open five at the desk. (Photo special to the Advocate) days a week, eight hours a day.”