Eastern Pennsylvania Conference of The United Methodist Church

Volume 9 Number 10 December 2009/January 2010 NEW Making Disciples of Jesus Christ Christmas Gifts

What is your Christmas gift to Christ? How will you choose to share your life? Sharing bread For life instead Choosing to live as Jesus said?

What is your gift for Mary’s babe To celebrate the love God gave? Forgiving grace, Mercy’s embrace, Sharing peace with the human race?

What will be your holy present For the God who now is present? Obedience, Your repentance, Your prayers as fragrant frankincense?

The gift that I bring at Christmas Will cost me more as time will pass. Down on my knees God only sees Giving Christ whatever He needs. (Words: Michael C. Johnson 2009; Meter: 88.44.8)

ichael and I hope that this How much joy will you see on Christ’s Is scholarship aid for a seminarian desires for our world. What is your gift Christmas will be a sacred time face when he opens that gift on Christ- on Christ’s Christmas list this year? for Christ? What is your gift for Mary’s Mfor you and your family. A time mas morning? How many babies will Christ is worried about the financial babe? What will be your present? May of spiritual renewal as you celebrate the you save from death so they might burden carried by those answering the Jesus just love the birthday gifts YOU gift that God has given you in his son grow up strong to serve the Lord? call to pastoral ministry. I remember give him this year. Jesus Christ. Nothing is more impor- Do you see missionary support on how blessed I was, when a saint of God, May God bless you and your families tant than God’s Christmas gift to you. the Lord’s list for Christmas? For only sent money my way to help me with my with grace and peace during this holy The second most important part of $500 dollars you could be in covenant education. Who are you going to help season. Christmas is deciding the gift you are relationship with a United Methodist for Jesus, so that scriptural holiness going to bestow upon Christ. Take time Missionary not only helping to bring will continue to be preached through- Merry Christmas! to think about your gift. What do you the good news of the Gospel into the out the land? believe that Christ has on his Christ- world, but also giving Christ a commit- Christmas is not a season to cel- mas list? What do you believe Jesus ment to be in prayer with one who is on ebrate greed. Christmas is not a time Bishop Peggy A. Johnson wants for his birthday? the front lines sacrificing their all for to satisfy our desires. Christmas is and Rev. Michael C. Johnson Do you see malaria nets on his list? God. to celebrate Christ and to satisfy his Southwest District rethinks “open” for Advent By Andrea Brown cakes atop a hill in Manheim at Ruhl’s Church on Saturday morning, and s the denomination rethinks swing down to the southern end of church and encourages us to use the county for a carol sing in Pleasant Aopen as a verb, the churches of Grove’s 1887 building Saturday after- the Southwest District teamed up to noon. Then, Sunday afternoon, adults offer Lancaster and Lebanon Coun- could wrap presents while watching ties an interactive experience of what football at Lampeter Church’s modern United Methodists do. facility. The district’s Spirit Network Team Movies, ornament making, cookie encouraged all district churches to sampling, historic tours, mission proj- plan special open house events during ects—even car detailing—were all part Spiritthe first weekend in December. of what someone could experience as In all, 34 churches out of 80 district churches swung wide their doors. churches participated, offering curi- Some events coincided with commu- ous neighbors a chance to sample the nity events—a tree lighting in Bain- wide variety of flavors represented by bridge, the annual Winterfest in Mount various congregations throughout the Joy, the First Friday art gallery open- area. ings in downtown Lancaster. A tour-goer could feast! on a hot Would someone interested in art A young visitor enjoys children’s activities turkey dinner in neo-Gothic Otterbein also find it appealing to check out at Hope United Methodist Church’s Advent Church in Lancaster city Friday eve- First Church’s architecture? Would Open House on December 5 in Ephrata, PA. ning, then go for chocolate chip pan- Continued on page 6 2 December 2009/January 2010 calendar of events www.epaumc.org NEW

until 4:00 pm. The guest keynote speaker for December this afternoon will be Bishop Felton Edwin May. Other participants include Rev. Yvette Davis and In Memoriam Sunday, December 20 Rev. Irving Cotto of the conference staff and Advent Festival Celebration “Welcome Em- the extended cabinet. All pastors serving in Spirit manuel Rejoice” (A Vespers Concertante): the urban ministries of EPA have been invited ! 7:00 p.m., free and open to all. The program to this mandatory event however all clergy are Rev. Thomas˜˜˜ E. Sligh features the (adult) Tabernacle Choir, Youth welcome to attend this time of worship and Choir, Carillon Ringers, Festival Orchestra and holy conferencing. Word has been received of the death of the Rev. Thomas E. Sligh, elder the Christy Memorial Organ. The “Nativity in full connection, who passed away on the evening of Wednesday, No- Suites” by Benjamin Harlan is a featured work. Sunday, January 10 vember 25, 2009. Grove United Methodist Church, 490 W. Boot Deadline to apply for Human Relations Rev. Sligh served three Philadelphia churches: Camphor Memorial, Mt. Road, West Chester, PA. For more information Day grant: Support ministries that respond Airy, and Devereux Memorial. visit www.grovechurch.org or call Craig Rider, to non-violent young offenders through A memorial service was held on Wednesday, December 2, 2009 at De- Director of Music, at (610) 692-6124. education, advocacy or leadership training vereux Memorial UMC, Philadelphia. and development. Grant applications are He is survived by his wife, Kathleen; his son, Thomas Sligh, Jr.; his Sunday, December 20 available at http://www.umc-gbcs.org/atf/cf/ daughter, Mrs. Kabrene Pittman; and his mother, who resides in South “What Can I Do - Sharing the Story”: A Christ- {689fea4c-8849-4c05-a89e-c9bc7ffff64c}/ Carolina. mas Cantata written by Mary Smith. December PEACE%20WITH%20JUSTICE%20GRANT%20 Expressions of sympathy may be sent to Mrs. Kathleen M. Sligh, 2435 W. 20, 2009 @ 7:00; Tabor UMC, 2209 Hendricks APPLICATION%202010.DOC, or by contacting Allegheny Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19132. <> In lieu of sending flowers, Station Road, Woxall, Pennsylvania 18979; Marvlyn Scott, in the office of Education and a monetary donation may be made to Devereux UMC Oil Fund, 2527 W Phone: (215)234-4852; www.tabor-umc.org Leadership Formation, (202) 488-5643. Allegheny Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19132, or flowers may be sent for the memorial service in South Carolina to FB Pratt & Sons Funeral Home, 601 Tuesday-Thursday, December 29-31 Sunday, January 10 South Street, Newberry, SC 29108; 803-276-1206. Jr./Sr. High Retreat at Pocono Plateau Camp Deadline to apply for Ethnic Local Church & Retreat Center: Grades 7-12; Cost is $95/ grant: The grants program is to strengthen person. Pocono Plateau Camp & Retreat Center, ethnic minority local churches through Mrs. Reta Barto Pocono Plateau Road, Cresco, PA 18326; 570- education, advocacy or leadership training and 676-3665; http://www.poconoplateau.org development as they engage in social justice. Mrs. Reta Barto died at the age of 93 on Saturday, October 31, 2009. Applications may be downloaded from http:// She is believed to have been the first woman ever to have been elected a Tuesday, December 29 www.umc-gbcs.org/atf/cf/%7b689fea4c-8849- Conference Lay Leader in the United Methodist Church, serving in that 4c05-a89e-c9bc7ffff64c%7d/2009-2012ELC. capacity in the Eastern Pennsylvania Conference, 1978-86. She organized DOC or may be obtained from Marvlyn Scott, the first “School of Religion” for theological training of laity in coopera- (202) 488-5643. tion with Albright College in Reading, PA, which is now as the Academy for Laity. Her service included the following: elected lay member to the Tuesday-Thursday, January 12-14 Eastern Pennsylvania Conference for 31 consecutive years; twenty-eight 2010 Midwinter Retreat for Clergy and Spous- years as a General and Jurisdictional Conference delegate; president of es: “Lord have mercy! Loving our enemies and the Philadelphia Conference Women’s Society of Christian Service (WSCS), practicing forgiveness, even in church.”; Clarion 1964-1968; president of WSCS-Wesleyan Service Guild in the Northeastern Fontainebleau Hotel, 10100 Coastal Highway, Jurisdiction, 1969-72; member of the Board of Directors of the Women’s Ocean City, MD 21842. www.epaumc.org Division, 1973-79. She taught at the UMW School of Christian Missions and provided dynamic leadership for her local unit of UMW at Holy Cross UMC. She served on the board of Cornwall Manor for nine years, 1979-84, Benefit Coffee House: Grove United Methodist February and 1991-97. As a member of the General Conference Central Conference Church, 490 W. Boot Road, West Chester. The Committee, 1984-88, Mrs. Barto travelled to Zimbabwe to tour land in event begins at 6:30. Sandwiches, snacks and Friday, February 12 Mutare, and at General Conference in 1988 voted for the establishment of soft beverages will be available for purchase— Deadline to Apply for Peace With Justice Africa University on the site. proceeds benefit the annual Appalachia Service Grant:Funding for this program is generated Services were held on November 6 and 21. Project summer trip for youth and adults. For through the Peace with Justice Special Sunday Mrs. Barto is survived by her sister and brother-in-law, Ruth and Leon- more information see www.grovechurch.org, offering of The United Methodist Church. Grant ard Hritzko, and many nieces and nephews. phone 484 639 4366, or email ichtoons@ applicants must be either a United Methodist Condolences may be sent to Mrs. Ruth Hritzko, 1566 Northway Rd., Wil- comcast.net. or other affiliated organization, or an ecumeni- liamsport, PA 17701-2891. cal group working with and through at least Memorial contributions be made to either Memorial Church of the Holy one United Methodist agency or organization Cross, 329 N. Fifth St., Reading, PA 19601 or Cornwall Manor, 1 Boyd St., January related to The United Methodist Church, then to P.O. Box 125, Cornwall, PA 17016. first-time requests and, finally, to those including Saturday-Sunday, January 2-3 an advocacy component in their program or Young Adult Retreat at Pocono Plateau Camp project. For more information or to request an & Retreat Center: Cost $80/person. Theme: application form also, contact Mark Harrison, Living with a Purpose- Exploring & discerning GBCS dir of Peace with Justice, (202) 488-5645. God’s call in our life. Pocono Plateau Camp & Brighten the life of a child Retreat Center; RR2 Box 2747, Pocono Plateau Saturday, February 27 Road, Cresco, PA 18326; 570-676-3665; http:// Tools for Ministry Training Event: Training will in your community www.poconoplateau.org be held on each district for clergy and laity, and will cover a variety of ministry topics. Central Wednesday, January 6 District - Norristown: Haws Avenue UMC; East Plan now to send children to Summer The Epiphany: Bishop Johnson’s Summit on District - Hatboro: Lehman UMC; Northeast Camp 2010 at one of our four Conference “Making Disciples and Responsible Stewardship District – Bethlehem: Wesley; Northwest District camps where they will get to know the love for Pastors of Urban Churches”. It will be held – Johnstown: Lickdale UMC; Southeast District at Eastwick United Methodist Church (6630 – West Grove UMC; Southwest District – Lititz of Jesus Christ. Contact Jim Wilkin for more Lindbergh Blvd, Philadelphia, PA) from 1:00 pm UMC. More information: www.epaumc.org. information at 610-666-9090, ext. 225 or [email protected].

Bishop Peggy Johnson - Philadelphia Area Bishop Periodicals postage paid at Norristown, PA 19403. Suzy Keenan - Director of Communications POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: NEWSpirit at NEW Sarah Young - Graphic Design and Layout EPA Conference, P.O. Box 820, Valley Forge, PA 19482. Published 10 times per year. Making Disciples (USPS 19-604) Annual Subscription $12. The Eastern Pennsylvania Conference of Please submit articles for publication by the 10th of the month of Jesus Christ for the The United Methodist Church to: EPAUMC, P.O. Box 820, Valley Forge, PA 19482 or via email to 980 Madison Avenue, Norristown, PA 19403 [email protected] Transformation of the World

Spirit! NE W www.epaumc.org December 2009/January 2010 3 Rethinking Christmas knotSpirit settled in my stomach. On the side of a small children, Teens, Young Adults, Singles, People from your bible. (Luke 2: 1-21) building! was a sign with the following words, who are mourning the death of a loved one, Seasoned Let’s Rethink Christmas this year! Let’s find ways A“Season’s Greetings.” Later the same day, I saw Saints. Everyone wants to belong to a community. Ev- to make Jesus the focus of our celebration and invite Christmas lights and decorations in various stores eryone wants to be loved. Why not invite people into others into our journey. The Gift of the Season has al- in the mall. Not three days after Halloween and way an environment that shares God’s love? One thing the ready been given, and cost us nothing. Let’s celebrate before Thanksgiving, the race to sell as many goods article stresses is “once people have come for the first God’s goodness! as possible by December 25, was on. Not to mention, activity,” have an invitation ready for the next gather- On the Christian journey with you, although the plan is to sell and market ing. Evangelism is an on-going effort. Rev. Monica for Christmas, the term Christmas is Guepet, St. Paul United Methodist has a wonderful often politically incorrect, so every- Wiggly Giggly Service Worship for Preschoolers and thing should more appropriately be other little people. For information, contact her at Pas- Happy Holidays. Certain carols are not [email protected]. to be sung in public. Oh, please. Another article recommends inviting unchurched Executive Director, Congregational Transformation/ The most troubling realization for persons to share in a Christmas outreach or mission Director, Connectional Ministries me is that many of the merchants with you and your congregation. That is a non- Eastern Pennsylvania Conference, The United Meth- Lillian Smith touting Christmas sales probably threatening way to include people not currently in odist Church don’t really know, love or serve Jesus. church, in the life of a congregation. It also facilitates [email protected] Instead, they want to profit from Jesus’ birth. And a comfort level with members of your congregation we are supporting them in the effort. Don’t get me even before they attend worship. http://www.gbod. wrong. Everyone needs to earn a honest dollar. But org/evangelism/programs/offeringchrist/doubt.html something has got to change. Through the outreach or mission, that person may This year is going to be a challenge in the Smith- experience a new understanding of the true gift of Cassidy home. Some rethinking is going on. Already Christmas - Jesus. the kids know not to speak to me about Santa Claus. Ideas for outreach are numerous. You don’t have If they want to talk to me about gifts, let’s talk about create everything or reinvent the wheel. Here are Saint Nicholas and why he gave gifts. Let’s also talk some options: about what gift we will give to Christ. Unlike some Read “Who’s Birthday Is It, Anyway?”, is a resource Christians who no longer observe Christmas because that is designed to help families, small groups and of the commercialism, I’m striving to do things dif- churches prepare for Advent and Christmas. This ferently. resource is available from Alternatives for Simple It just feels and seems that the whole reality that Living, for a small fee. Their article, “10 Tips for a Jesus came into the world to save humanity from sin, Simpler, More Meaningful Christmas,” also has some often seems to be lost from the equation. In our busy- suggestions to modify your Christmas traditions. ness to purchase gifts for our loved ones, co-workers http://www.simpleliving.org. and some folk we really don’t like, our schedules Host an Open House- Instead of having one in Sep- become crowded and challenged to schedule time for tember, why not join some of our Lancaster churches God. Christmas Eve Service? Maybe. Christmas Day and have it during Advent: www.rethinkchurch.org. Worship Celebration? No. No time. We have to open Get ideas from other congregations... the gifts and get dinner ready. We talk about Jesus The United Methodist Church of the Resurrection coming as a child in the manger, but forget to empha- will have a Family Advent Night and a “Christmas at size that he will come again to Judge the living and Resurrection,” Concert http://www.cor.org/calendar. the dead. How about worshipping on Christmas morning? If This year, please join me in having a Christ Cen- a worship service outside the home is out of the ques- tered Christmas. Why not intentionally think of tion, here is a resource for family devotions: http:// ways to invite unchurched or dechurched persons www.gbod.org. to attend various Advent or Christmas activities. In In his book, “The Purpose of Christmas,” Rick War- the article, “Your Christmas or Theirs,” Christians ren details a family tradition of having a “Birthday are encouraged to intentionally reach people beyond party for Jesus.” During that time all of the family the congregation. http://evangelismconnections.org/ members share what they are thankful for and what What better time to invite people of all walks of life they are going to do for Jesus this year. Easy and do- to share in the life of the congregation? Families with able without props. You can read the Christmas story A Place for All: Faith and Community for Persons with Disabilities in a nationally producer, Debra Gonsher Vinik, who ties as whole persons. But the goal, for televised docu- has won three Emmys for her faith- any religious group, is to help people mentary, A Place related documentaries. Ms. Vinik said, see with new eyes that people with for All: Faith and “I could have done the Bishop Peggy disabilities are truly valuable and have Community for show! She was so delightful. I was for- skills and abilities that enhance the Persons with Dis- tunate to have interviewed a number of faith community.” abilities. people who were quite articulate. What Ms. Vinik interviewed Bishop John- A Place for All, Bishop Johnson had to say was made son while she was directing a week- which will air on particularly meaningful considering long camp for Deaf Developmentally ABC-TV affili- her own story.” Disabled young adults at Innabah ates beginning Bishop Johnson, who was born with Camp and Retreat Center, one of four December 6, is one eye and has an artificial eye, was Eastern Pennsylvania Annual Confer- presented by the pastor of Christ UMC of the Deaf in ence camps. Bishop Johnson recently Interfaith Broad- Baltimore, MD prior to her election as organized a team in the Philadelphia casting Com- a bishop. Early in her ministry she felt Area to encourage churches in their mission (IBC) as a deep calling to minister with Deaf ministry with persons with disabilities. part of ABC’s persons and persons with disabilities. One of the team’s projects has been to 2009 Vision and Bishop Johnson advocates for the inclu- offer a recent workshop on ministry Bishop Peggy Johnson directed a week of camp for deaf and developmentally Values series. sion of persons with disabilities, “not with Deaf persons. disabled young adults at Camp Innabah, July 12-18. Photo by Kathy Boyer. The documen- just to receive, but to be co-ministers According to a release from the Inter- tary explores the with us in the priesthood of all believ- faith Broadcasting Commission, A Place ishop Peggy Johnson of the inclusivity of persons with disabilities ers.” for All “explores how faiths have moved Philadelphia Area of The United in faith communities. In her interview for A Place for All, toward inclusivity as they help ease BMethodist Church is one of Bishop Johnson was contacted to be Bishop Johnson said, “Our culture the social isolation that often plagues several faith leaders who will appear part of the documentary by the show’s tends to not value people with disabili- Continued on page 7 4 December 2009/January 2010 ACROSS THE NATION www.epaumc.org NEW Internet church engages in ‘21st century circuit riding “Andrew has a passion for blogging, Twitter. … It was something that he already loved. We felt weSpirit had IT staff who could do the technical part, but among ! our pastors he was really the one who was most ener- gized about it,” Hamilton says. Hamilton says the Internet services have been espe- cially popular of late due to H1N1 virus concerns. “School attendance has been down by 10 percent in our area because of the swine flu. Our Internet atten- dance has gone through the roof because people are home with sick kids. Instead of dismissing church, they’re worshipping with us.” Planting churches online? Streaming the services online has also revealed a possible new method for starting churches. Conard says an independent living facility in the area began regularly showing the services to a group of resi- dents. This sparked the idea of the “microchurch.” “People might be able to gather and worship to- gether in one place through an online service, be it people’s homes or college dorms – wherever people might gather can be a place for worship,” Conard says. “So we ask ourselves what ways we can equip the leaders of those groups and try to be the church in that way as well.” Hamilton cites the story of one member’s un- churched relative in another state who is now a regu- The Rev. Adam Hamilton lar visitor to Resurrection Live! “What would happen if he invited 12 of his friends to sit in his living room and to join us for worship By Joey Butler “The Internet is a place where people feel comfort- that way? Maybe this guy who just six months ago able coming to interact and find faith,” he says. “One was unchurched might start a congregation,” he says. don’t think we’re in Kansas any more.” of the questions is how do we worship, give, grow in Conard says he sees microchurches as a church- Dorothy from “The Wizard of Oz” may have faith and serve together online?” planting strategy. He envisions a network of micro- “Isaid that about herself, but she could also have churches with an elder appointed to a number of been talking about The United Methodist Church of Increased interaction them to oversee and work with the local leaders. the Resurrection. Two of Resurrection’s five Sunday services are Hamilton calls it “21st century circuit-riding.” While the church maintains its physical presence in streamed on http://live.cor.org. Visitors are able to “In the long term, that could be a way of planting three locations in Kansas, it has also gone worldwide register their attendance, and Conard contacts them new faith communities in a little bit different way,” with the launch of Resurrection Live!, an Internet- afterward and stays in touch. Conard says. based worship experience. The goal is increased methods of interaction. Con- Hamilton agrees. The Rev. Andrew Conard is the pastor of the online ard says he hopes the site will allow him to interact “We’re trying to figure out what does church look campus, which began streaming services in Novem- live with online worshippers. There are likely to be like in the next 20 or 30 years. And we feel like we’re ber 2008. more social media outlets on the site, allowing people on the verge of this sort of revolution when it comes “When we first launched, we didn’t figure there to take notes online and maybe share those notes. to how church looks for people in the future.” would be a lot who would worship with us, but we The church also may offer online classes. Ultimately, found that there was significant interest among our Conard hopes to find ways for people to serve. Butler is editor of content for 18- to 34-year-olds at United Meth- current congregation,” Conard said, adding that the Conard is the right man for the job, says the Rev. odist Communications, Nashville, Tenn. online services average about 1,000 visitors. Adam Hamilton, Resurrection’s senior pastor.

is encouraging people to think traditions. For some, this will shape. The setting was Bar- ferings received in local United The Nation in Brief “outside the gift box” to make be their first Thanksgiving ratt’s Chapel at Frederica, Del., Methodist churches on the Christmas more about sub- and first taste of a turkey din- the oldest Methodist Church Sunday nearest the birthday of stance and less about stuff as ner. Members of Athens First in the United States originally the Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr. UMs ‘going g˜˜˜reen’ it launches its Advent advertis- UMC started the International built as a church. Bishop Peggy The effort to secure big broth- UMs are “going green” at ing campaign airing on CNN Student Ministry because sta- A. Johnson of the Philadelphia ers in 11 annual conferences levels far beyond recycling Headline News Nov. 24-Dec. tistics have shown that 75 per- Area preached at the special will begin in 2010. church bulletins and eliminat- 27. The Rethink Church com- cent of international students service commemorating a ing Styrofoam cups at coffee mercial features a homeless never receive an invitation meeting between two early Young adults urged to hour. Throughout the country, woman with a shopping cart. to an American home and as leaders, Francis Asbury and embrace call to ministry congregations and communi- Christmas music is playing in many as 85 percent will never Thomas Coke, who together At a time when the number ties are setting new standards the background. The message be invited to an American laid the organizational founda- of young elders is not keeping of stewardship, said Tyler rolls across the screen: “This church. Through the ministry, tions for U.S. Methodism. pace with clergy entering re- Edgar, assistant director of Christmas, remember those more than 100 “friendship tirement age, United Methodist climate change and energy for who are shopping for hope, partners” make these visitors UMM start mentoring leaders urged more than 500 the Eco-Justice Program of the acceptance and love.” The feel welcome in the U.S. during program young adults at EXPLORATION National Council of Churches. commercial directs viewers to the holidays and year-round. At least 70 boys whose fa- 2009 to trust God in consider- “Churches are . . . engaging in www.10thousanddoors.org. UMTV’s “Thanksgiving for In- thers are in jail or prison will ing their own call to service in local energy and sustainability ternational Students” is avail- be mentored by big brothers the church. And 170 of the 535 initiatives that have the poten- UMTV: Thanksgiving for able to view at www.umtv.org. as the result of a $7,200 grant high school seniors and young tial to define their communi- International Students to UM Men from the UM Board adults in attendance said ties in the coming years.” ATHENS, GA (UMTV)--As Methodists mark defining of Church and Society. Nation- yes to that call to ordained most college kids head home moment in church history ally, 7.3 million children have ministry. They signed com- Advent ad campaign for the holidays, some volun- On a bright November at least one parent in jail or mitment cards indicating they What if you went shopping teers are opening their doors Sunday, 125 United Method- prison, and these children are are ready to serve the church for hope instead of giving in to young people far from ists gathered to thank and five times more likely than as ordained elders and dea- to hype this Christmas? How home. International students praise God at the spot where, their peers to commit crimes. cons. Another 96 said God was much difference could you are spending time with host 225 years earlier, the course Funds for the program come calling them to ministry other make in the world? The UMC families learning American of American Methodism took from Human Relations Day of- than ordination. NE W www.epaumc.org around the world December 2009/January 2010 5 Typhoons leave Filipinos ‘reeling,’ bishop says By United Methodist News Service Manila area, led by Bishop Lito C. Tangonan, orga- Spirit nized relief operations and issued a letter appealing ilipinos are! “reeling” from the impact of multiple for support and donations to church members at typhoons this fall, says United Methodist Bishop home and abroad. United Methodist institutions and FLeo Soriano of the Davao area of the Philippines. local churches distributed relief supplies and assisted Just one week after Tropical Storm Ketsana struck with shelter. Sept. 26, Typhoon Parma hovered over the country for Using church members and other local volunteers, five days. “You can just imagine (how) it added to the the United Methodist Committee on Relief is dis- floods,” he said while visiting United Methodist Com- tributing emergency supplies to more than 11,000 munications on Nov. 16. displaced families. Melissa Crutchfield, who coordi- In all, 25 provinces in the Manila area, Baguio area nates the agency’s international disaster response, and part of Davao area were flooded. said UMCOR has just received a $40,000 grant from Flash floods from the typhoons caused major prop- Muslim Aid for its relief work in the Philippines. erty damage, according to the bishop. Less substan- Long-term recovery will mean rebuilding liveli- tial homes were washed away and concrete structures hoods as well as homes, Soriano explained. Many were submerged in water for a long period. Part of flood victims “simply have only the shirt on their Manila, the capital city, is still under water. back ... so you have to help them rehabilitate and “Some of the animals, many of them died,” the many of them will be relocated because they could bishop said. “They were drowned-dogs, cats, pigs and not build again where they were before.” even pests like rats. ... The stench is terrible.” Soriano expects this Christmas to be “a very bleak Some people, he added, have become infected with one” in the Philippines, but hopes other United Meth- leptospirosis, a disease caused by bacteria from rat odists will pray for them and contribute financially to urine that has contaminated the floodwaters. the recovery. Soriano happened to be in the United States, attend- “The meaning of Christmas is Immanuel, God with ing a meeting in Nashville, when the first typhoon us,” the bishop said. “If we could be together in trag- struck. He returned home to find church members edy, in peace and joy, and in pain, then that could be organizing for the relief process. Immanuel and merry Christmas to all of us.” “The district superintendents, the deaconesses, Donations to support ongoing relief work in the some lay leaders, in cooperation with UMCOR-Phil- Philippines can be made to Philippines Emergency, ippines, they tried to do some rescue and (provide) UMCOR Advance #240235. relief goods,” Soriano said. “Even at this time, they This story is written by Linda Bloom and based on an interview are still doing it.” Bishop Leo Soriano conducted with Bishop Leo Soriano by Susan Passi-Klaus, a public rela- After the first typhoon struck, the denomination’s tions writer with United Methodist Communications.

sas, Iowa, Ohio and Texas are than a thousand dead and an islative Assembly in Berlin is the United Methodist-related The World in Brief holding special prayer services estimated 1.3 million people Dec. 31. The event is July 21-26, university, located in Mutare, in November and December to displaced. 2010, but it’s already crunch Zimbabwe. Giving information press Congress to pass im- time, said Elizabeth-Ann Rowl- is available online at www. members to ˜˜˜clamor for migration reform that keeps Methodists in Puerto Rico ison, coordinator of the event support-africauniversity.org. climate change families together. The per- elect new bishop for Young People’s Ministries, a As world leaders grapple sonal effort is part of a larger A clergyman who is also a division of the United Meth- Translators sought for with the issue of global warm- campaign that organizers hope trained musician will be the odist Board of Discipleship. Global Young People’s ing in December, churches will deliver 250,000 postcards next spiritual leader of the Guidelines for legislation and Convocation will be ringing their bells to to members of Congress by Methodist Church of Puerto general information about the NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UMNS) remind them of the need for Jan. 4. Rico. The Rev. Rafael Moreno convocation and how to sup- -- Organizers of the Global action. At 3 p.m. local time Rivas, pastor of the Univer- port it can be found at www. Young People’s Convocation on Dec. 13 -- about halfway UM bishops launch appeal sity Methodist Church in Rio globalyoungpeople.org. and Legislative Assembly are through the Dec. 7-18 United for Philippines Piedras since 2000, was elected seeking a team of translators Nations Climate Change The UM Council of Bishops bishop Nov. 14 at a special Africa Univ. donors match who can help during the time Conference in Copenhagen -- has issued a Churchwide Ap- session of the church’s General gifts for scholarships leading up to the event and churches and religious groups peal for Philippines Disasters Conference. He will take office NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UMNS) – during the event. As many as will sound bells, drums, gongs in response to the multiple on Jan. 1, when the term of Africa University’s Honorary 500 young people are expected or other instruments 350 typhoons that struck the Bishop Juan A. Vera expires. Alumni Association is try- to come from all over the times to symbolize the 350 country. The appeal, which Bishops in the Puerto Rican ing to raise $20,000 or more world for the event July 21-26 parts per million that mark was announced Nov. 19, will Methodist Church serve six- by Dec. 15 for its endowed in Berlin. Everything from the what many scientists say is provide humanitarian relief year terms. scholarship fund. Two mem- registration Web site to event the safe upper limit for carbon and support for the minis- bers of the association are packets must be translated dioxide in the atmosphere. tries of The United Methodist Dec. 31 deadline on legisla- participating in a dollar-for- into five languages. Anyone in- Church in the Philippines. In tion for young people’s dollar match, up to $10,000, terested can contact Rowlison campaign for immigration late September and October, event for all gifts by that date. The ([email protected], 303-947- reform launched four typhoons—Ketsana, The deadline for submitting scholarship fund makes it pos- 3825) for more information. WASHINGTON (UMNS) — Parma, Lupit and Mirinae—hit legislation to the Global Young sible for students who cannot Houses of worship in Arkan- the Philippines, leaving more People’s Convocation and Leg- pay tuition to be educated at 6 December 2009/January 2010 www.epaumc.org NEW

Southwest Two perspectives on Healing the Wounds of Racism Spirit! District renda Tildon is a Christ Rev. Hannah Adair Bonner, ation, but can’t do this work outside Servant Minister and mem- a 2008 graduate of Duke, who of authentic communal justice. For Continued on page 1 Bber of St. Daniel’s UMC. She worked at a Historically Black Unit- some people reconciliation becomes someone shivering in the cold of a town decided to attend the Healing the ed Methodist Church from 2007- another act of violence, because of celebration gladly open their mouth to a Wounds of Racism training since 2009, was recently appointed to an the demand to do it without changes steaming cup of hot chocolate inside St. she recommends it for the Certified interim position in the Peninsula- in action. It must be loved into exis- Mark’s open doors—and then open their Lay Minister program. (Individu- Delaware Conference. During her tence instead of demanded. hearts and minds, as well? als pursuing this program must attendance at Healing the Wounds What could local church and The choice of Advent as a time to make be recommended by a pastor and training she shared a positive out- conference leadership do to encour- the joint effort proved challenging for then come before the District Com- look regarding the training. age the willing and productive many congregations, which already have mittee on Ministry. The ministry What was the most important participation of congregants? The their own December traditions and many process takes 6 months to 3 years portion of the workshop? The first step is to be willing and pro- events on crowded calendars. to complete.) opportunity to connect with others, ductive participants themselves, if The timing was chosen, however, not for What was the share stories and this is going to be done correctly, it the convenience of hosts but for the ben- most important meals together while must be more than just lip service. efit of guests. Our buildings tend to look portion of the learning about a Speaking positively is important, and especially appealing when they are decked workshop? I believe difficult topic was engagement of appropriate persons out in their Christmas finest. Visitors the clarifications of important. with constructive criticism is a must. who might otherwise be wary of entering historical facts and Why do you think Making negative comments is non- a strange church might be drawn in for a getting reacquainted persons of color productive. glimpse. with the facts were are reluctant to at- Most Euro-American people don’t “I have already heard some success very important. tend the workshop? have to enter situations without hav- stories,” said District Superintendent Jim Brenda Tildon Also observing the Hannah Bonner Considering the pain ing the power and if they do, they Todd. “Salem United Methodist had forty- reactions and listen- and discomfort of are unsettled about not having the five children come to their activity, only ing to the responses of others in the revisiting race circumstances and power. I think that attending brings one of which was from the church. They class was enlightening situations, persons of color feel it is anxiety due to being on the hot had posted stars all over the community Why do you think persons of useless . When “white people” come seat. Racism and racist are trigger to attract people’s attention. If you fol- color are reluctant to attend the to the table it is to move to reconcil- terms that cause defenses to go up lowed the stars, it led you to the church workshop? They feel this training is ing, and persons of color are ap- and shutdowns productive dialogue. and its star-related activities. It was a for those who are considered capable prehensive of the constant starting The acceptance of that title causes creative and fun way to attract people’s of being racist. We all need to come over, without actual changes being alarm, it’s necessary to confess when attention, and it could possibly have long- to terms with being able to say, “This witnessed. living in a world that is structured to lasting effects for the church, if those is how I feel.” It’s easy to say what How will you be able to empha- give privileges to select persons. It’s people who attended the event continue to my strengths are, but to disclose size the importance of workshop difficult to avoid the temptation to be involved in the church.” weaknesses is very difficult. Then, attendance? I have shared with accept the privilege. As voiced in He added, “On the other side of the dis- afterwards, you must decide to do others that this has been the best the training, there is no way to be a trict, Christiana UMC had 52 people attend something about them. experience and preparation to work passive Anti-racist and it’s not easy their open house, including a couple who How will you be able to empha- on issues of justice. I believe I have to live as an active Anti-racist, yet it’s came back for worship on Sunday. Many size the importance of attendance? been called to a ministry of reconcili- necessary. of the churches had people attend the It is an opportunity to look at self open house who had never been in their and better understand how and church before.” what our brothers and sisters experi- December is a time of year when even ence and the differences of those people without a church home often feel from the Euro-American culture. 2010 Healing the Wounds of more comfortable entering a church build- You could say it was a class for only ing. Churches were encouraged to provide Euro-Americans but we need to work tour-goers with a printed invitation to oth- out differences together, must accept Racism Workshop dates er Advent and Christmas events, including that racism exist and it needs to be a Christmas Eve worship services. diverse group setting to work on our April 9-11 or 11-13, 2010 - Camp Innabah, Spring City, PA The district’s Spirit Network team had difficult concerns. decided in advance that the measure of What could local church and Tentative, Please call the office with your preferred date success of the event would not be a high conference leadership do to encour- March 13, 10am-3pm - Healers Session - St. Matthews UMC, Valley number of new members or even large age the willing and productive Forge, PA number of guests (though that would be participation of congregants? Pay Bring own lunch, we’ll supply drinks and dessert. wonderful!) but that the event would have more attention to follow-up. Ongo- value if it simply let neighbors of differ- ing work is required; people must be Aug. 9-11 - Daylesford Abbey, Paoli, PA Level II ent faiths, and no faith at all, feel more called to make a difference in their Aug. 13-15 - Daylesford Abbey, Paoli, PA Introductory session welcome and at home among us—and if it daily actions. Sept. 17-19 - Gretna Glen, Lebanon, PA Introductory session made us more open to them! I really appreciated the experience. Training sessions leading up to the event Even though it is mandatory for all Oct. 22-24 - Pocono Plateau, Cresco, PA Introductory session brought laity and clergy together for dis- pastors and for a portion of Eastern cussions of Dan Kimball’s book and video Pennsylvania Conference leadership, series They Like Jesus but Not the Church we need to be more conscious and OPPORTUNITY: There will be a one-day Healing the Wounds as well as insights from David Kinnaman intentional in sharing the need to of Racism session shared by two churches, Haws Avenue UMC and Gabe Lyons’ unChristian: What a New attend and inform other People of Generation Really Thinks about Christian- Color that the Healing the Wounds and Open Arms UMC, in Norristown on January 23, 2010 from ity and Why It Matters. of Racism training is very impor- 9am to 4pm. The joint effort allowed for joint public- tant. Rev. Chris Brady encouraged WANTED: Two persons interested in working on each district ity for the events in local newspapers and me to join the list of ‘Healers’ (a title as Healing the Wounds of Racism liason partners. This will be on radio and TV, as well as on web-based given after attending the training) an opportunity for committed persons to work on an active, events calendars. Publicity directed by highlighting the historical facts effective ministry of reconciliation, and to serve as a “Go-to people to the district’s website, www. given during the three-day informa- Team” for issues of concerns. southwestdistrict.us for full details about tive, relational building session. It is the many different events and locations. extremely important for all to par- ticipate in this much needed process For more information, contact: Rev. Hilda Campbell, Human Relations & Andrea Brown is associate pastor of Grandview to be effective in Kingdom Building Leadership, [email protected] or 610-666-9090, ext. 224. United Methodist Church. for God. NE W www.epaumc.org December 2009/January 2010 7

Lay missioners trained to start new Pastoral Letter from Spirit! faith communities the Bishops: God’s tional development.” (The 2008 Book of Disci- pline, para. 270) Held over two weekends at Blue Mountain Re- Renewed Creation treat in New Ringgold and at Black Rock Retreat he Council of Bishops recently adopted a new in Quarryville these participants went through pastoral letter entitled “God’s Renewed Creation: a total of 40 hours aimed at developing faith TCall to Hope and Action.” This statement explains communities and community ministries in their our United Methodist vision for being better stewards respective neighborhoods. Participants came of creation. from Allentown, Lancaster, Reading, Hatboro In it the bishops have pledged 9 action steps: and Lebanon. The team of trained facilitators 1. We as your bishops pledge to answer God’s call to included The Revs. Bruni Martinez, Lilian Cotto, deepen our spiritual consciousness as just stew- Lydia Munoz, Elena Ortiz and Irving Cotto. ards of creation. We commit ourselves to faithful During each weekend the training involved and effective leadership on these issues, in our de- worship, bible study, role playing and group nomination and in our communities and nations. discussion on contextual evangelization and ho- 2. We pledge to make God’s vision of renewal our listic mission. Participants were given a bilingual goal. With every evaluation and decision, we will manual which is the main training tool through ask; "Does this contribute to God’s renewal of the entire experience. This tool consists of creation?" Ever aware of the difference between teaching guides and worksheets that guide many what is and what must be, we pledge to practice of the group activities such as skits, musical Wesleyan “holy dissatisfaction.” presentations, poetry, reports or panels. 3. We pledge to practice dialogue with those whose What are faith communities? Faith communi- life experience differs dramatically from our own, ties are not limited to 12 people, which is the and we pledge to practice prayerful self-examina- usual size of a small group, and are intentionally tion. For example, in the Council of Bishops, the inclusive of all family members - it is about be- fifty active bishops in the United States are com- ing the church in a different way. Faith com- mitted to listening and learning with the nineteen munities involve worship, study, fellowship and active bishops in Africa, Asia and Europe. And the mission. Many of their constituents will see the bishops representing the United States conferences faith community as their primary worshipping will prayerfully examine the fact that their nation Laity from La Iglesia Metodista Unida El Buen Samaritano community and their primary caring commu- consumes more than its fair share of the world’s in West Chester prepare to become lay missioners. nity. resources, generates the most waste, and produces In the Spring these participants will attend the most weapons. By Irving Cotto Module II for Lay Missioners which is the second 4. We pledge ourselves to make common cause with basic training required to qualify for certifica- religious leaders and people of good will world- he Eastern Pennsylvania has thirty new lay tion as a Lay Missioner. It is anticipated that wide who share these concerns. We will to con- persons and pastors who have completed these new Lay Missioners and Pastor-Mentors nect and collaborate with Ecumeasia, Europenial TModule I for Lay Missioners according to the will be presented at Annual Conference and and interreligious partners and with community National Plan for Hispanic/Latino Ministries. receive their certificate directly from the hands and faith organizations to that we may strengthen An integral part of the Office of Congregational of Bishop Peggy Johnson. our common efforts. Development, the purpose for this training is to Our new Lay Missioners will be pioneers in 5. We pledge to advocate for justice and peace in the lead local churches in starting new faith commu- the development of new places for new people, halls of power in our respective nations and inter- nities in nearby areas primarily among persons some of which will become local churches. In national organizations. who have not become a part of the membership addition, as has been the case throughout the 6. We pledge to measure the “carbon footprint” of and who may have never had a relationship with nation, some of these Lay Missioners may hear our Episcopal and denominational offices, de- Jesus Christ. the call to become pastors in the United Method- termine how to reduce it, and implement those Who are Lay Missioners? They are “committed ist Church. Please pray for our trainees that changes. We will urge our congregations, schools laypersons, mostly volunteers, who are willing God will lead them into unexplored missional and settings of ministry to do the same. to be trained and work in a team with a pastor- territories. 7. We pledge, to the best of our ability, to provide mentor to develop faith communities, establish the resources needed by our conferences to community ministries, develop church school Irving Cotto is the Director of Congregational Development reduce dramatically our collective exploitation of extension programs, and engage in congrega- for the Eastern Pennsylvania Conference. the planet, peoples and communities, including technical assistance with buildings and programs, education and training, young people’s and online networking resources. 8. We pledge to practice hope as we engage and A Place for All continue supporting the many transforming min- Continued from page 3 of programming on faith and of the handful of deaf rabbis istries of our denomination. Every day we thank the one out of five Americans religion on the three major in the world; with members of God for fruit produced through the work of The with disabilities. This program broadcast TV stations: ABC, Evangelical Lutheran Church’s United Methodist church and through each of you. highlights the stories of people CBS, and NBC. Definitely Abled Youth; with 9. We pledge more effective use of church and com- with disabilities who have been Other faith leaders contribut- Max Rubin, a five year old boy munity webpages to inspire and share what we welcomed as valued members ing interviews include Rabbi with cerebral palsy; and with learn. We celebrate the communications efforts of their religious communi- Joseph Potasnik, Executive Rev. Beth Lockard, pastor of that tell the stories of struggle and transformation ties and celebrated baptisms, Vice President, New York Board Christ the King Deaf Church in within our denomination. Bar/Bat Mitzvahs, and annual of Rabbis; Rev. Dr. Michael West Chester, PA. events as well as the stories of Kinnamon, General Secretary, To check when A Place for There is a website that gives the full letter with a those who have found strength National Council of Churches; All: Faith and Community for foundation document as well as a pastoral letter in in their faith allowing them Dr. Ingrid Mattson, President, Persons with Disabilities is play- a liturgical setting for church use. It can be found and others to see past their dis- ISNA; Rev. Bill Gaventa, Direc- ing in your area: www.inter- at www.hopeandaction.org. This same website gives abilities.” tor, Community and Congre- faithbroadcasting.com. The further resources on how to make your church more The IBC is a coalition of gational Supports at The Boggs documentary will be closed- friendly to our created world. In addition there will be four major faith groups: the Center on Developmental Dis- captioned for the Deaf and hard a study guide posted on line by early January. National Council of Churches, abilities, Robert Wood Johnson of hearing. To watch a trailer An adult study proposed for use in Lent 2010 is also a consortium of Jewish Organi- Medical School. The documen- of the documentary, go to www. anticipated (6 sessions). I hope you will take advantage zations, the Islamic Society of tary explores inclusivity with divacommunications.com/ of this teaching moment in the life of the church and North America, and the United Rabbi Darby Jared Leigh, a aplace. Locally: WPVI TV06 do what you can to find ways to improve our world by States Conference of Catholic rabbi at Congregation Bnai Ke- ABC, Philadelphia, PA, Dec. 13, the environmental choices we make. Bishops. It is a major source shet in New Jersey, who is one 2009 at 4:30 a.m. 8 December 2009/January 2010 www.epaumc.org NEW

Grace UMC attends Changing Our World Conference ley Campus. Mt. McKinley UMC after services went out into the neighborhood andSpirit is located in an economically raked leaves wherever they saw a need. ! depressed area of Dayton, Ohio. The Changing Our World Conference was held on The church had served in that the Ginghamsburg UMC campus. Several dynamic community for over 100 years, keynote speakers shared with us including Mike but because of an aging member- Slaughter, lead pastor and Chief Dreamer, Dr. Ron ship and dwindling resources it Sider, Dr. Ruby Payne and Rev. Trevor Hudson. They merged with the Ginghamsburg all spoke in their unique styles to convey a message Congregation. of ministering to and with people living in poverty in With a new vitality and mission- ways to change the world. During the rest of the con- al focus that congregation went ference we attended workshops that featured various from 30 worshippers to over 200 ministries of the church. Everything focused on the in less than one year. The newest mission statement: members came from the sur- Celebration - Bring - bringing people into life con- rounding neighborhood. About 30 nection with Jesus former members of Mt. McKinley Cell - Grow – in relationship with God UMC and a group of urban mis- Call - Serve – the needs of others and the world sioners from the Ginghamsburg The Ginghamsburg church has a clear focus on mis- congregation make up the new sions. The church staff and operating budget is “bare- Pastors and lay persons from four Eastern Pennsylvania churches attended the Change worshipping community. This con- bones”. The annual budget for care of the massive the World Conference: Hatboro: Lehman Memorial, Lebanon: Covenant, Phila.: Grace, gregation provides a dynamic wor- building and maintenance needs is approx $700,000. Shamokin: St. John’s, Lincoln Park: Community. Connectional Ministry Funds, approved ship service which features music In 2008 the congregation gave over 1.1 million in by the Congregational Transformation Team, provided stipends for the High Potential to which the neighbor can relate. direct aid to Darfur, the church’s missional focus. Churches to attend either the School for Congregational Development or the Change the They provide a free breakfast ev- Disciples are called “unpaid servants.” Much of World Conference. The group was joined by Rev. Michael Slaghter, pastor of Ginghamsburg ery Sunday morning with made to the work done to sustain this ministry is by “unpaid UMC. Photo by Daniel Herner. order waffles and omelets. servants.” People want and need to share their gifts The Church features a compre- to change the world and the church is intentional By Grant Johnson hensive social work ministries department called New about helping people to “dream” - to find their unique Path, Inc. It features a food pantry in which people ministry call and to live into it. our lay persons and the pastor from Grace United select food items from the shelf as in a supermarket, I came out of this Conference with a fresh under- Methodist Church in Philadelphia attended the a dinner on Monday nights in a café style, furniture, standing of servant ministry. In order to change our F“Changing Our World Conference” at Ginghams- financial assistance, cars and other services. world we need to nurture our call to serve. burg UMC in Tipp City, Ohio held October 21-23, 2009. The Congregation’s focus is on Project Neighbor- We give thanks to the High Potential Church Initia- Attending from Grace were Joyce Gailliard, Lesma hood in which a defined area is designated as the tive sponsored by the Eastern Pennsylvania Annual Miller, Margaret Trice, Carol Scott, and Rev. Grant church’s mission area. In order to reach the commu- Conference for helping to fund this endeavor which Johnson. nity they have regular prayer walks. They are always will help to re-vitalize our ministry at Grace. October 21 there was an Urban Ministries intensive looking for ways to connect with the community. One for which we spent the day at the new Mt. McKin- Sunday each member brought a rake to church and Grant Johnson is pastor of Grace United Methodist Church.

Bishop’s Midwinter Retreat for clergy and spouses

Theme: "Lord have mercy! Loving our enemies and practicing forgiveness, even in church." January 12-14, 2010

Keynote Speakers from Duke Divinity School: Rev. Dr. L. Gregory Jones, Dean and Rev. Susan Pendleton Jones, Director of Field Education Clarion Fontainebleau Hotel 10100 Coastal Highway Ocean City, MD 21842

Register online: www.epaumc.org For more information contact: Mrs. Amy Botti 1-800-828-9093, ext. 233 or email at [email protected]