Volume LXI AUGUST 2017 No. 8 Equipping GNJ Laity for Leadership By Josh Kinney Rosa Williams, “When laity intention- [email protected] ally become equipped to model the life of Christ, the church will soar to new NEPTUNE – Designed specifi cally heights.” and exclusively for GNJ laity, the annual Churches are encouraged to send a Laity Leadership Academy which will be team of lay leaders who work together held on Sept. 9 at the Mission and Re- at the Academy in developing an action source Center in Neptune is a “not to be plan to take back to their church for actual missed event” according to Trey Wince, implementation and improvement. Certi- Director of New Disciples. fi ed Lay Servants who successfully com- Wince will be leading one of six inspir- plete the Laity Leadership Academy and ing tracks at the day-long event to pro- implement their action plan will receive vide the tools and skills required for lay re-certifi cation recognition for Certifi ed leaders, in concert with clergy leaders, Lay Servant. to empower their churches for the chal- We know that a pastor cannot do lenges of the 21st century. Specifi cally, ministry alone, reported GNJ Lay Leader the Academy will provide expert assis- Rosa Williams, “When laity intention- tance and guidance in aiding lay leaders ally become equipped to model the life in the critical areas of inspiring worship of Christ, the church will soar to new experiences, an evangelism church, so- heights.” cial media ministry, older adult ministry, Below, read about the tracks avail- Empowering church for the 21st century, The Laity Leadership Academy will website development and liturgical praise able at the Laity Leadership Academy take place on Sept. 9 at the Mission and Resource Center. Photo by Josh Kinney dance ministry. and register by August 15 at gnjumc. “We know that a pastor cannot do org. Registration is $50 per person and ministry alone,” reported GNJ Lay Leader space is limited. TRACK 4: Building an effective church social media strategy TRACK 1: Facilitator: Debbie Bruce & George Lagos I’m with the band: A day-long worship clinic This track provides an overview of the social media channels including Facebook, Facilitator: Eric Drew, Director of Worship Twitter, Instagram and seven “must haves” to ensure time spent on social media Worship musicians and leaders will go deeper in their understanding of worship, provides engagement with both existing and new church members leading worship and musicianship on the worship team. Feel free to bring your TRACK 5: instruments. Keyboards, amps and drums will be provided Vital ministries with older adults TRACK 2: Facilitator: Helen Hunter & Arthur Harrell The E Word: Connecting with your community in not-so-scary ways This track provides an overview of the aging process, including physical, mental, Facilitator: Trey Wince, Director of New Disciples and social changes. Learn strategies to engage in the support for elderly parishio- Just as bridges and cities go together, churches and communities are linked. Con- ners and families gregations are in a unique place to transform people’s lives as God’s people con- TRACK 6: nect to their communities Expressive liturgical and praise dance TRACK 3: Facilitator: Pamela D. Gordy Creating your website Liturgical/Praise dance has a purpose of deepening and focusing the worship expe- Facilitator: Eric Valosin rience. This track will discuss the history and importance of dance, symbols to look This track is designed to help your church self-promote programs and attract a for in choreography and how to prepare for a dance ministry. Come prepared to targeted web community which will build your overall online presence demonstrate your moves Leanor Ortega Till Mission and Resource Ready to IGNITE Youth Center Receives 2017 By Jason Worrell [email protected] “Good Neighbor Award” By Josh Kinney WILDWOOD - “I believe [email protected] life has seasons. In my fi rst season I was a planter of NEPTUNE – Cre- seeds, ministering to those ating jobs, serving who didn’t know Christ the community, and along with those who were architectural appeal new to the faith. Now I feel earned The United called to be a watering can Methodist Church for Christ, helping those of Greater New Jer- who are already walking sey’s Mission and with Him and showing Resource Center them the Scripture in a (MRC) in Neptune, new way.” It is that call from the 2017 “Good God that leads Leanor Neighbor Award” Ortega Till, more popu- from The New Jersey larly known by the fans of Business and Indus- Five Iron Frenzy as “Jeff Christian ska band Five Iron Frenzy’s own Leanor try Association and Pictured left to right, Jack Green of Jack Green Construction, the Girl,” to speak at the Ortega Till, better known as “Jeff The Girl” will be New Jersey Busi- Bishop John Schol, Stephen J. Carlidge of Shore Point IGNITE Youth Conference taking the stage at IGNITE 2017. Photo provided ness Magazine. Architecture, and Michele Siekerka, President & CEO of this fall in Wildwood. “It is more than NJBIA. Photo provided by NJBIA Since 1995 Till, the saxophonist for Till is also the lead vocalist for a side merely offi ce space,” reads the article in Schol, who along with church leaders, Five Iron Frenzy, along with the seven project called “The Fast Feeling” an 80s the July edition of New Jersey Business envision the facility to serve as more other band members, have gained na- style synth-pop band that just released Magazine. “It is a place of inspiration than just offi ce space “Our focus is to tional recognition as a Christian ska/ their fi rst album Pulses. The lyrics of the and learning for spiritual and community equip transformational leaders to make punk band. Their ability to combine silly band continue to inspire a life of intro- leaders throughout the state, region and vital congregations. Our capacity to and fun lyrics along with deeply spiritual spection and eternal perspective. world, and will enable the church to serve resource our leaders has never been songs, all set to fast-paced tunes has Till’s introduction to music started an even greater audience.” greater.” He continued, “The Mission and made them wildly popular among both young when she received a pawn shop “We intentionally named this facil- Resource Center is a place of inspiration Christian and secular audiences. They alto sax at nine-years-old. Coming from ity the Mission and Resource Center and learning for spiritual and community have recorded a total of six studio albums a musical family, she recalls jamming because this building is all about how leaders throughout the state, region and plus two live albums and a dozen other out to Motown with her father in a room we support the work of the church out the world.” EPs, singles, and collaborations. Continued on page 8 in the community,” said Bishop John Continued on page 4 2 UNITED METHODIST RELAY AUGUST 2017

innovation, but reaching new disciples, engaging disciples in community mis- A Message from the Bishop sion and growing disciples and the church. It helps people understand why God and the times are urging change. 3. Pursue the right thing. Healthy leaders pursue the right thing, not their interests Honor, Disrupt, Align - or what makes them or the congregation most comfortable, but the right thing The actions of a for the congregation and community. 4. Create clarity. Disruptive change creates confusion and sometimes chaos. transformational leader Creating more clarity about the mission, the values, beliefs and what the church is doing are essential for creating support for the change. Have you ever been to church and a young 5. Over communicate. Leaders cannot communicate enough how the past has child becomes disruptive? Maybe he or she is been important, why the church is changing and how the church will achieve crying, or playing under the pews, or running up God’s calling. and down the aisle. I served a congregation that 6. Work with a team. Leaders who identify, create and move the change by them- didn’t want disruption and printed on their bulletin selves are headed for failure. Working with a team ensures there are one or cover, “enter the sanctuary quietly, meditate and two people who are willing to ask the hard questions. prepare for worship in silence.” 7. Shrink the change and shape the path for change. Help people see the change The church overall has discouraged disruption. We have leaned heavily on tradi- is manageable and share the steps that will be taken to carry out the change. tion and the enemy of tradition is disruption. The irony is that all traditions owe their People are much more willing to try something if it is not overwhelming and start to disruption. No tradition has ever started without someone being disruptive by there is a clear path with steps for the change. doing something different and starting a new tradition – just like the child engaging in Every leader who helps the church live up to its full potential and pursue a God-sized a new way challenges the congregation to engage children differently. vision will create disruption. Healthy leaders lead the congregation in and through Today, change and disruption is no longer an option for the church; it is required to the change by creating disruption. They manage the change and disruption through make new generations of disciples and to be engaged in meaningful mission in the seven leadership principles. As the leaders of Calvary Korean Church teach us, even community. The change needed is not surface or cosmetic change, but deep change in the best of times, leaders need to be changing. that invariably creates disruption. I am grateful for every leader, lay and clergy, who are creating healthy disruption. This is the second of a three-part series about what effective transformational lead- You are the risk- takers, the innovators who are exploring what is next for the church’s ers do to lead toward health and vitality – they honor, disrupt and align. ministry in the world. Thank you. Previously I talked about honoring. Honoring is essential before, during and after change, otherwise people experience the change as being critical and even condemn- John Schol, Bishop ing what occurred in the past. Honoring people and past traditions is important to lead The United Methodist Church of Greater New Jersey change as you move forward. However, most leaders are afraid of disruption. Disruption creates confl ict and resis- tance. Church leadership believe their role is to create unity and harmony, which is true Strategic Plan 2019-2023 most of the time but there is a need to disrupt the status quo to get a different result. In a recent conversation with Rev. Sang Won Doh, who leads the Calvary Korean Listening Sessions UMC in East Brunswick, the fi fth fastest growing United Methodist Churches in the U.S., he told me his church leadership team challenged him to make changes so that The 2017 Annual Conference passed a resolution to start the process for a they reach new disciples. Imagine leading one of the fastest growing congregations new strategic plan that will take GNJ to 2022. The plan starts with listening. Six in the U.S., things are going well, and the leadership wants you to change and to listening sessions are being set up for clergy and laity to share their hopes for introduce change. The last thing you think church leadership would want is change. the future. All United Methodists are invited and encouraged to share their voice. Register today at gnjumc.org. But the leaders at Calvary Korean UMC want even more people to experience the transformative power of Jesus Christ and they are smart enough to know that it will Listening Session Dates and Locations take change; it will take some disruption. Change, deep change that is needed in the church to make new generations of Tuesday, August 8 at 7 p.m. disciples, calls for disruption. Leaders who lead healthy disruption that helps the con- Location: The Mission and Resource Center gregation get to God’s next destination use seven key leadership principles. 1. Honor past history including past and current leadership. Healthy change Thursday, August 10 at 7 p.m. leadership thanks others for their contributions, and highlights how the past Location: Pitman UMC has been important and impactful. 2. Lead with why. Healthy change leadership lets people know why we do things Sunday, August 13 at 2:30 p.m. as we do them and why changes are being made. This isn’t about the latest Location: St. Peter’s UMC in Ocean City

Tuesday, August 15 at 7 p.m. Location: Chatham UMC

Thursday, August 17 at 7 p.m. Location: Ewing UMC

Sunday, August 20 at 2:30 p.m. Location: Boonton UMC

CHECK OUT OUR FEATURED EPISODE: What is Instagram, and why does your church need to be on it? :ŽŚŶZ͘^ĐŚŽů͕ŝƐŚŽƉ dŚĞhŶŝƚĞĚDĞƚŚŽĚŝƐƚŚƵƌĐŚŽĨ'ƌĞĂƚĞƌEĞǁ:ĞƌƐĞLJ Editorial Manager of the The Relay, Josh Kinney and ϮϬϱ:ƵŵƉŝŶŐƌŽŽŬZŽĂĚ͕EĞƉƚƵŶĞ͕E:Ϭϳϳϱϯ Online & Digital Communications Manager of Greater ZĞǀ͘ŚƌŝƐƚŽƉŚĞƌ,ĞĐŬĞƌƚ͕ŚĂŝƌ͕ŽŵŵŝƐƐŝŽŶŽŶŽŵŵƵŶŝĐĂƟŽŶ New Jersey, Brittney Reilly come on to talk about ϴϱϲ͘ϰϮϵ͘ϬϰϬϯ͕Ğdžƚ͘ϮϬϵͮĐŚĞĐŬĞƌƚΛŚĂĚĚŽŶĮĞůĚƵŵĐ͘ŽƌŐ this visual social media platform. Z>z^d&& Josh Kinney͕ ĚŝƚŽƌŝĂůDĂŶĂŐĞƌ ϳϯϮ͘ϯϱϵ͘ϭϬϰϳͮũŬŝŶŶĞLJΛŐŶũƵŵĐ͘ŽƌŐ Carolyn Conover͕ ŝƌĞĐƚŽƌŽĨŽŵŵƵŶŝĐĂƟŽŶĂŶĚĞǀĞůŽƉŵĞŶƚ ϳϯϮ͘ϯϱϵ͘ϭϬϭϲͮĐĐŽŶŽǀĞƌΛŐŶũƵŵĐ͘ŽƌŐ ƌŝƩŶĞLJZĞŝůůLJ͕KŶůŝŶĞĂŶĚŝŐŝƚĂůŽŵŵƵŶŝĐĂƟŽŶDĂŶĂŐĞƌ ϳϯϮ͘ϯϱϵ͘ϭϬϰϬͮďƌĞŝůůLJΛŐŶũƵŵĐ͘ŽƌŐ ĞŶŝƐĞ,ĞƌƐĐŚĞů͕ŽŶƚƌŝďƵƚŝŶŐtƌŝƚĞƌ ŶũϲƉĂĐŬΛLJĂŚŽŽ͘ĐŽŵ ZĞǀ͘DĞůŝƐƐĂ,ŝŶŶĞŶ͕ŽŶƚƌŝďƵƚŝŶŐtƌŝƚĞƌ ŵĞůŝƐƐĂ͘ŚŝŶŶĞŶΛŶLJĂĐͲƵŵĐ͘ĐŽŵ

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CULTIVATE A LEADERSHIP POOL:ƵƌŶŽƵƚŝƐ ŽŵŵƵŶŝƟĞƐŽĨ,ŽƉĞ/ŶĨŽ^ĞƐƐŝŽŶ ƌĞĂů͘WĂƐƚŽƌƐĂŶĚĐŚƵƌĐŚůĞĂĚĞƌƐƐŚŽƵůĚŬŶŽǁƚŚĞ ƉƉůŝĐĂƟŽŶƐĚƵĞ͗ĞĐ͘ϭϰ 4 ĐŽŶŐƌĞŐĂƟŽŶ͕ďĞŝŶǀŝƚĂƟŽŶĂů͕ďƵŝůĚƌĞůĂƟŽŶƐŚŝƉƐ͕ ĂŶĚŵĞŶƚŽƌƵƉͲĂŶĚͲĐŽŵŝŶŐůĞĂĚĞƌƐ͘ &ŽƌŵŽƌĞŝŶĨŽƌŵĂƟŽŶŽŶƌĞƐŽƵƌĐŝŶŐŽƉƉŽƌƚƵŶŝƟĞƐŐŽƚŽ͗ ǁǁǁ͘ŐŶũƵŵĐ͘ŽƌŐĂŶĚƵƐĞƚŚĞƐĞĂƌĐŚďŽdžƚŽƚLJƉĞŝŶŬĞLJǁŽƌĚƐ͘

INSPIRING READS FOR LEADERS: “An effective Committee on Turn the Ship Around!: A True Nominations and Leadership Story of Turning Followers into Leaders ‡˜‡Ž‘’‡–‹†‡–‹ϔ‹‡•ǡ by L. David Marquet †‡˜‡Ž‘’•ǡ†‡’Ž‘›•ǡ‡˜ƒŽ—ƒ–‡•ǡ and monitors Christian •’‹”‹–—ƒŽŽ‡ƒ†‡”•Š‹’•‘–Šƒ––Š‡ Shift: Helping Congregations Back Into the Game of Effective ‘‰”‡‰ƒ–‹‘ ƒ””‹‡•‘—––Š‡ Ministry ministries for transformation by Philip Maynard ‘ˆ–Š‡ ‘—‹–›ǤŠ‡ ‘‹––‡‡‰—‹†‡• Š—” Š Synergy: A Leadership Guide for Church Staff and leaders on matters regarding Volunteers by Ann A. Michel Žƒ‹–›‹Ž‡ƒ†‡”•Š‹’‘ˆ–Š‡ ‘‰”‡‰ƒ–‹‘Ǥdz - umcdiscipleship.org 4 UNITED METHODIST RELAY AUGUST 2017 Clinton UMC to Launch Online Church in Sept. By Denise Herschel [email protected] STORYTELLERS

CLINTON - It has taken time, work and CHANGEMAKERS a lot of refi nement with a six-month roll out and launch plan, but it’s fi nally offi cial WE ARE ORGANIZERS SENT - on Sunday, September 10, Clinton UMC will offer another way for the community to worship with the debut of its “online THEOLOGIANS church.” “We can worship God anywhere; it November 11, 2017 doesn’t need to happen in a traditional church building,” according to Rev. Mi- chael P. Smith, Senior Pastor of Clinton UMC, who said that with “our online Aldersgate United Methodist Church | East Brunswick NJ campus anyone can use their phone or laptop to access a worship environment.” “That’s our digital equivalent of a Clinton UMC has ofϐicially launched church building,” he said. “Once they “online” church to connect the church are online they can connect with God with the community in a new way. and with community. This can happen Photo by Josh Kinney through devotionals, blogs, recorded vid- The Great Commission calls us to go, make disciples, baptize “We want to extend a warm welcome eos and other content. But they will also and teach. Learn from a storyteller, changemaker, organizer be invited to worship as part of a commu- to our online visitors via everything from nity during an interactive, online weekly the wording to the design scheme,” Smith and theologian on how to be SENT into this world. service and community group. Looking said. We are offering a space where SENT: a one day conference for us all. back on the past ten years, I smile when people can worship God at a time and I think about all the things we have tried place that is convenient for them. The in our congregations. We stretched our missional living and giving is encouraging comfort zones and somehow I am still people to be in relationships with others moving forward by God’s grace.” and to give generously of their gifts. The BREAKOUT SESSION LEADERS: Smith, who just fi nished serving his next steps are providing access to online third year at Clinton UMC, has had pre- and physical community groups where vious appointments in the Cape Atlantic people can stay connected outside the StorytellerS | CHANGEMAKER | ORGANIZER |THEOLOGIAN District, including St. Peter’s in Ocean worship experience.” City and Tabernacle UMC in Erma. He Smith believes that the “online church” DANIELLE FANFAIR MARK DEVRIES CHRISTIAN COON ERIC BARETTO ”„ƒ‹ŽŽƒ‰‡Š—” Š ”‹ ‡–‘Š‡‘Ž‘‰‹ ƒŽ believes the concept for launching the is innovative in the way that it looks to & MARLON HALL ‹‹•–”›  —„ƒ–‘”• ‘ŽŽ‘”‡ƤŽ• ‡‹ƒ”› “online church” came about because of new methods or advanced methods a problem in need of solving. of fulfi lling the mission. He added that “It was developed because of the need in reality, however, it is not completely that was presented to us,” he said. “We original. understood our context, people and com- “It is simply creating community where munity and we decided to take calculated people are and the church has always FIND OUT MORE AT: WWW.GNJUMC.ORG risks in digital ministry, such as launching tried to do that. We should be leading the our mobile app. These things have pro- way in the development of community. duced positive results that gave us even We want our online worship experience more confi dence to take a step forward.” to be more than just watching a physi- According to Smith, many talented cal church service. We are working on people have contributed to the launch of a highly interactive experience that will the “online church.” enable people to share their stories “Creating an online worship space and connect into a community. Such requires resources in technology, com- tools would be online chat and prayer munications and worship,” Smith said. requests, online community groups and “Our full-time digital ministry resource, online pastoral care,” he said. Corbin Payne, is leading the charge, Smith added that other churches don’t collaborating with our communications have to do it the same way as Clinton, but manager, Beth Crawford.” To get feed- his prayer and his hope is that churches back on whether the church is accom- will leverage everything that they have plishing goals, leaders have enlisted a for the sake of creating community for focus group made up of people within others. the church. “This is Clinton UMC’s vision: to be “In the church world, it’s never just a community sent for others. We will one person. We are a community and connect people into that which is most LAITY LEADERSHIP ACADEMY I am thankful for the people here,” said needed - community. It will just be done Smith. He added that the Clinton UMC online,” he said. SEPTEMBER 9, 2017 online worship experience should mirror Clinton UMC’s online church website The Mission and Resource Center a physical worship experience in many is www.sentforothers.org with a Sep- ways. The online campus will be built tember 10 launch date. Clinton UMC is 205 Jumping Brook Road | Neptune, NJ 07753 around four key elements: hospitality, located at 12 Halstead Street in Clinton, worship, missional living and giving and New Jersey. Visit them at www.clin- next steps. tonumcnj.com “Good Neighbor Award” Continued from page 1 tive headquarters for A Future with Hope The 19,200-square-foot center on and The United Methodist Stewardship Jumping Brook Road in Neptune was Foundation of Greater New Jersey. designed by Shore Point Architecture and Since opening in 2015, the Mission built by Jack Green Construction, both and Resource Center has been used of Ocean Grove. It includes 50 offi ces, by dozens of related and community 4,000 square feet of meeting rooms and organizations including local churches, a state-of-the-art video and sound studio. United Methodist Homes, Northeastern The 2017 Laity Leadership Academy provides tools and skills for lay The ground features an area for worship Jurisdictional functions, Drew University ůĞĂĚĞƌƐĨĂĐŝŶŐƚŚĞĐŚĂůůĞŶŐĞƐŽĨƚŚĞϮϭƐƚĐĞŶƚƵƌLJ͘^ƉĞĐŝĮĐĂůůLJ͕ƚŚĞ services and meetings and an audio and and others. video production studio, which is avail- Drew Theological School held its fi rst ĐĂĚĞŵLJƉƌŽǀŝĚĞƐĞdžƉĞƌƚĂƐƐŝƐƚĂŶĐĞĂŶĚŐƵŝĚĂŶĐĞŝŶĐƌĞĂƟŶŐ͗ able for use by churches, community classes in the facility this spring and plans Vital small group ministries, inspiring worship experiences, an evangelism groups and affi liated organizations. to expand course offerings in coming church, a social media ministry and liturgical/praise and dance ministry. “We salute the United Methodist semesters. Church for contributing to the economic The Good Neighbor Award recognizes Register today at: www.gnjumc.org value of this community,” said nomina- both the structure of the Mission and tor Vito D. Gadaleta, Coordinator for the Resource Center and the tremendous Deadline to register is: August 15, 2017 Township of Neptune Economic Devel- impact GNJ has had throughout the opment Corporation. “We’re honored to state. With 560 congregations caring host this exquisite world-changing facility for the spiritual health of their communi- in our neighborhood and we look forward ties, United Methodists in Greater New to their continued work locally, regionally, Jersey served 452,572 people in need and around the world.” throughout the state, region and world The center serves as the administra- in 2015 alone. AUGUST 2017 UNITED METHODIST RELAY 5

DON’T MISS THE SECOND PRICE BREAK FOR IGNITE 2017! NOW – AUGUST 31 1-9 registrants $65 | 10-29 registrants $60 30 or more $55

TEDASHII MEREDITH ANDREWS REGGIE DABBS LEANOR ORTEGA TILL PRESTON CENTUOLO 2017 CONFERENCE

FIND OUT MORE AND REGISTER TODAY: www.IGNITENJ.org 6 UNITED METHODIST RELAY AUGUST 2017 Safe Sanctuaries Certiϐication Quick, Easy, and Required By Josh Kinney ing young people safe. young people to learn and grow in God’s Sanctuaries policy in the local church. [email protected] “God calls us to make our churches love,” said Munoz. Workshop attendees will learn how to safe places, protecting children and Anyone interested in being a part create and implement a Safe Sanctuar- NEPTUNE – Feeling confi dent and other vulnerable persons from abuse,” of young people programming within ies policy for their local church ministries at ease concerning the safety and se- said training facilitator Rev. Erica Munoz. GNJ, whether through youth groups, and will receive certifi cates of completion. curity of youth in GNJ churches should Currently serving as the Senior Pastor of IGNITE, or VBS, is required to become Churches are encouraged to promote come naturally to parents and families. Aldersgate UMC in East Brunswick – a vi- Safe Sanctuary qualifi ed. Certifi cation themselves by publicly indicating that That’s why the United Methodist Church tal congregation doing profound ministry is simple, requiring only a miniscule fee their volunteers and or staff are Safe of Greater New Jersey is committed with children, youth and young families, and submitting oneself for a background Sanctuary certified; helping to build to helping every church enact a Safe Munoz has also served as the GNJ Safe check. continued trust within their communities. Sanctuaries policy and be compliant with Sanctuaries Coordinator since 2008. She “It’s easier than you think and impor- Churches that have a Safe Sanctuar- its regulations. has helped local congregations reduce tant to all,” said Munoz. ies policy that need to be certifi ed are On September 16 at the Mission and the risk of child abuse in the church and On September 16, training par- invited to bring their policy to the train- Resource Center in Neptune, a GNJ- is passionate about raising up young ticipants will learn requirements for Safe ing. Register for the workshop at www. wide training event will be held to ensure disciples.. Sanctuaries procedures in GNJ and gnjumc.org/events. For more detailed all local church volunteers are compliant “I believe every church should serve obtain a fi rm grasp of importance and information regarding Safe Sanctuaries, in current required best practices in keep- as a safe and encouraging place for the biblical mandate for having a Safe visit www.gnjumc.org/safe-sanctuaries Apostles in our Midst: Rev. Dr. Brandon Cho and Morristown UMC A 2017 Series on Apostolic Leadership in GNJ Mission: A group of dedicated and ministries and inspiring worship services. his pastoral ministry as Christ-centered, gifted lay leaders and members greeted The ministry began reaching new people Spirit-led and mission-driven. His vision Rev. Dr. Brandon Cho when he began his with baptisms, youth confirmations, and passion for ministry are inspired ministry at Morristown UMC in July, 2014. reception of new young adult members by his multi-cultural upbringing and his These eager visionaries were ready to and the blessing of a new young people’s “Rainbow Spirituality” which promotes take their church into a new future, re- soccer team. harmony, unity in diversity, bridge-build- imagining and developing new ministry In response to immigration fears, both ing of all peoples and unyielding hope strategies and action plans. The congre- pastors worked in partnership with other for tomorrow. gation embraced the Team Vital resource clergy and civic leaders to create a “fair He is a 1.5 generation Korean-Ameri- and for the following 18 months, Cho and welcoming community” in town. Now, can pastor who grew up in Honolulu and worked with the local Team Vital team Morristown UMC has begun Communi- was called to ministry at age 15. He at- and the congregation to improve and ties of Hope training along with Dover tended Hawaii Loa College (now Hawaii upgrade the quality of existing ministries First UMC, Dover Grace UMC, UMC Pacifi c University) and earned his Doctor and develop innovative new ministries. of the Rockaways and Wharton United of Ministry and Master of Divinity degrees The church leadership adopted a Community Church in the Morristown- from Claremont School of Theology near vision statement: “To become God’s Dover area. The team is seeking new, Los Angeles and a Master of Sacred beloved community, change lives and Brandon Cho caption: Rev. Dr. creative ways to build relationships Theology from Drew Theological School. transform communities” and they focused Brandon Cho of Morristown UMC. with neighbors, develop innovative and Cho served the Cal-Pac Annual Con- on the fi ve essential markers of vitality: Photo provided life-changing community mission and ference of the United Methodist Church worship, making new disciples, small nurture mission partnerships with local pastoring various local churches and as groups, mission, and giving. Nueva Esperanza (New Hope) to reach organizations. Santa Barbara District Superintendent “It was important for the congregation and refl ect the nearly 35% Hispanic and “Is it possible to develop a healthy and Dean of the Cabinet. He was the to move deeper, higher, and wider in the Latino population of Morristown. Pastor union between tradition and innovation fi rst Executive Director of the Korean- ministry,” said Cho. “I am grateful that this Charles Perez was appointed as a new for a historical church like Morristown American National Plan of the United congregation is developing such selfl ess Associate Pastor to lead the ministry and UMC?” asked Cho. “The answer is yes, Methodist Church and is married to Rev. disciples for the mission of the church.” he started with a creative sports ministry with God’s help.” Dr. Jennifer Cho, the new Senior Pastor They started a new bilingual ministry, for young people, small group home Apostle: Rev. Dr. Brandon Cho sees at Bridgewater UMC. Students Reϐlect on A Future With Hope Mission Trip By Josh Kinney much work there still is to be done even [email protected] though it has been almost fi ve years since the storm,” said Rev. Shannon BRIGANTINE / TOMS RIVER – Waite, Campus Minister. “On our fi rst Standing in the ocean with the waves day, we learned that there are still roughly gushing and swirling around her feet, 3,000 people without homes.” Grace Rice found it hard to believe Waite described meeting one of the the very same water could turn violent home owners as a moving part of the enough to wipe out the home she had experience. spent the day working on. “It was wonderful to see the excite- Last May, Rice was one of fi ve stu- ment that he had to have the students dents and two leaders on a mission there working on some of the fi nishing trip to help with A Future With Hope’s touches to his home,” she said. “After Superstorm Sandy recovery efforts in years of living on friends’ couches and Brigantine and Toms River. The group apart from his wife, who was disabled from Campus Christian Community at the and moved in with her mother an hour University of Mary Washington in Fred- away, he was fi nally going to be able to ericksburg, VA, spent a week painting, move back into his home with his wife just spackling, refl ecting, and praying; grap- a few days after we fi nished!” Students from the University of Mary Washington’s Campus Christian pling with the challenges of the ongoing The energy was contagious for the Community in Fredericksburg, VA, spent an inspiring, faith-growing week rebuilding process at the Jersey Shore. group, leaving New Jersey “grateful” and working with A Future With Hope in Brigantine and Toms River. Photo provided “It was surprising for us to see how “inspired.” In the midst of their work, the group members were given a list of ques- Katie Hartraft said the mission trip was tions designed to help them get to know the best conclusion she could have ever each other and go deeper in their faith. had to her freshmen year of college. “When you are off the worksite it’s “The trip brought with it lots of smiles, hard to remember that the community sore muscles, and laughter,” she said. SUNSET SURF is still rebuilding from the storm and it’s “Our tight-knit group worked very cohe- even harder to remember when you live sively together. No one was an outlier – several states away,” said Rice, who we all played off each other’s strengths had returned for a second year on the while poking fun and sharing laughs CELEBRATION mission. “Throughout the year I did not everywhere in-between.” give Superstorm Sandy recovery efforts For a while, Hartraft had debated on much thought at all. Going back helped going on the trip. the reality of the situation sink in.” “It was a much more fulfi lling experi- Join us at: Rice expressed frustration at the start ence than I had previously imagined,” SEA BRIGHT PUBLIC BEACH of the trip because she felt the group’s she said. work didn’t seem “big or important” but There is more work to do. Those TuesdayTuesday EEveningsvenings @ 7:007:00 p.m.p m later came to appreciate what they had interested in rebuilding homes and re- 7/11, 8/1, 8/22, 9/12 done after seeing the happiness in the newing hope for New Jersey families are families they had helped fi rsthand. encouraged to take part in one of these In partnership with: “Leaving New Jersey encouraged me fulfi lling experiences by visiting www. to work on putting others before myself afuturewithhope.org/volunteer Sea Bright UMC & Middletown UMC and to continue being a light,” she said. www.seabrightumc.org | www.middletownumcnj.org The September 2017 Issue Deadline is August 23, 2017 AUGUST 2017 UNITED METHODIST RELAY 7

GNJ 2017 SCHOLARSHIP AWARD RECIPIENTS ANNOUNCED The Conference Board of Higher Education and Ministry has announced the 2017 scholarship recipients.

CONFERENCE TRUST SCHOLARSHIP ETHEL SNYDER BOOK/INEZ R. IRONS SCHOLARSHIP

Allison Andres Rebecca Goold First United Methodist Church, Island Heights United Methodist Church, Millville, NJ Island Heights, NJ Eastern University Rowan University

Briana Bennett Joonha Kim Covenant United Methodist Church, Monmouth Grace United Methodist Church, 3ODLQÀHOG1- Eatontown, NJ Rutgers University St. John’s University

Brook Boetticher Noelle Oh United Methodist Church of Lake Hopatcong, Cornerstone Church, Lake Hopatcong, NJ Ridgewood, NJ Centenary University Emory University

Madelyn Pep David Tokpah, Jr. Pitman United Methodist Church, New Covenant United Methodist Church, Pitman, NJ Hamilton, NJ Stockton University American University

Aaliyah Phillips 7HQDÁ\8QLWHG0HWKRGLVW&KXUFK FRANCES NELSON SCHOLARSHIP 7HQDÁ\1- Rutgers University Meredythe Elliott Dobbins Memorial United Methodist Church, Delanco, NJ Southeastern University Nathan Winkelspecht Trinity United Methodist Church, Clayton, NJ Messiah College David Geller St. Andrew United Methodist Church, Toms River, NJ Ocean County College

EMILY S. GARRISON SCHOLARSHIP

Jennifer Bannon Holly Paul Wall United Methodist Church, United Methodist Church at New Brunswick, Spring Lake Heights, NJ New Brunswick, NJ Brookdale Community College Capella University

Hope Brown Pitman United Methodist Church, REV. RALPH A. KAPPLER SCHOLARSHIP Pitman, NJ Villanova University Kaitlyn DeGroot Frankford Plains United Methodist Church, Augusta, NJ Harvard University

ETHEL SNYDER BOOK/INEZ R. IRONS SCHOLARSHIP

Anuroop Alberts You can access, view, and share the 2017 Christ United Methodist Church, Jersey City, NJ scholarship recipient announcements at Lehigh University www.gnjumc.org/news. 8 UNITED METHODIST RELAY AUGUST 2017 DJ Vow to Ignite the Hearts of Youth for God By Kamelia Ani There was no shortage of music in the [email protected] Martinez household. The DJ’s father was a musician and as a little boy he would When thinking of Christian music, hip sneak into his father’s stash of music and hop and electronic dance music don’t im- play disco records. He grew up with a mediately come to mind. That is, unless surplus of musical infl uence; everything you’re Bryan “DJ Vow” Martinez, who has from hip hop, to rock, to traditional Latino built a career spreading the word of God through music. Martinez has been spinning for over “God can use anything ten years in hopes of bridging the gap and anyone for his glory, between church culture and millen- including something as nial culture. The DJ believes that “[his] speakers can effectively communicate taboo as electronic dance with someone who otherwise wouldn’t music or hip hop.” - DJ Vow have cared to engage. God can use any- thing and anyone for his glory, including something as taboo as electronic dance music. When he was 12, DJ Vow’s older music or hip hop.” He will be bringing his brother bought him a cheap turntable DJ talents to the stage at the IGNITE youth set, and he was instantly hooked. He did conference in Wildwood this fall. his fi rst show at 14, nervous as could be, Bryan “DJ Vow” Martinez has built a career spreading the gospel through music Martinez is no stranger to youth and remembers that he couldn’t ever and will be DJing at IGNITE 2017. Photo provided conferences, having spun at many as make eye contact with the crowd. The well as attended as a participant in his more shows he did, the more comfort- in their hearts through music. to attend a youth conference. own youth. Growing up in inner city Fort able he got and he continued to work Martinez is thrilled to be an invited He firmly believes that “no matter Worth, TX in the 90s was challenging hard at his music while still working his artist at this year’s IGNITE. This will be how hard we try, we cannot measure to say the least. Gangs were prevalent regular job. the conference’s fourth year, which is on life change, we cannot create a formula and many of his friends and family fell When he was 24, Martinez met a track to top last year’s attendance of over for salvation. However, we can choose into dangerous lifestyles. Luckily for hip hop artist named Tedashii, and thus 1,200 participants. The DJ will be joined to invest into our next generation, we Martinez, he was invited to church by began a series of events which led to by world renowned artists and speak- can cast our nets, we can pray, we can an acquaintance and immediately saw him quitting his day job to pursue music ers such as Meredith Andrews, Reggie be obedient, we encourage and support the light. At the tender age of 12, he de- full time. Now he spins shows with the Dabbs and Tedashii. For Martinez, these the work of God through ministries that cided to follow Jesus wholeheartedly. He ultimate hope of spreading the message conferences hold a special place in his make it their main goal to communicate began attending church regularly as well that “it’s ok to have a good time, we can heart as the memories he made as a Jesus to young people.” as youth conferences just like IGNITE. live a relevant lifestyle that also pursues youth at similar events have stayed with To fi nd out more about DJ Vow please It was here that he felt he was able to holiness.” He believes that what is lack- him to this day. For that reason, every visit www.djvow.com . Don’t miss the sec- block out all distractions and focus on ing with today’s youth is a passionate year Martinez and his wife make it a pri- ond IGNITE price break which ends Aug. communicating with God. love of God, and he hopes to ignite that ority to anonymously sponsor a student 31. Register today at www.ignitenj.org Leanor Ortega Till Ready to IGNITE Youth Continued from page 1 guest preaching at pretty much any in their house completely dedicated to church that will have me and have got- music. At 12-years-old, attending a Four- ten to visit some pretty amazing places square Church camp, she answered an including Seattle, Wisconsin, and Hawaii. alter call to accept Christ into her heart. I’ve talked at different church events like Although she had grown up having oc- discipleship conferences, but IGNITE is casionally attended church, she hadn’t the fi rst youth conference I’ve gotten the really grasped the personal relationship opportunity to speak at. I’m so excited that Christ wanted to have with her until to get a chance to share my heart at that point.. IGNITE.” Five Iron Frenzy was formed towards When asked how important she the end of her senior year in high school thought it was for parents, youth staff, in 1995, and Till’s cousin, Micah Ortega, and church members to support youth was instrumental in helping her join the conferences like IGNITE she was very band. passionate. “I think it is so important “I was so excited. I knew I was going to for parents and even church members be attending Colorado Christian Univer- without kids to donate time or sponsor a sity, but I also knew I was joining a band kid to attend or support events like this that encouraged me to share my faith in in any way they can. These junior high God,” she said. It wasn’t always easy to and senior high schoolers are making be a Christian in the music scene, even in such important decisions at this age, and a Christian band. “It’s always a struggle, especially those who attend public school but we had great relationships with our really don’t get to hear the messages that home churches, along with other believer Leanor Ortega Till, the saxophonist for Five Iron Frenzy, is thrilled to share her come out of events like this from many friends and family and of course, with heart at this year’s IGNITE youth conference in Wildwood. Photo provided other sources.” each other. We had people we could go IGNITE Youth Conference is sched- to with our struggles or problems, or even of the Earth Church in Denver where and seeks to reach the “left out and the uled for September 29 through October doubts. That is so important for young she preached, curated an art gallery and right brained.” 1 in Wildwood, NJ. The second price people to have in their lives; people to served as the Director of Women’s Min- “I felt like God was calling me to go break for IGNITE 2017 ends on August honestly talk with.” istry. Scum of the Earth Church started out and spread the word to a broader 31. Visit www.ignitenj.org for more info For 16 years, Till worked with Scum out as the Five Iron Frenzy Bible study, audience,” she said. “So far I’ve been and to register. Young Adults, Worship Invitation New to IGNITE By Josh Kinney “Young people are not the church of time,” said Bechtold. He continued, “I am “We’re opening this invitation up to all [email protected] tomorrow,” said District Superintendent particularly excited about helping local of GNJ to be a part of the IGNITE experi- and IGNITE advocate Steve Bechtold. congregations with a smaller number of ence and worship alongside our youth,” WILDWOOD – The IGNITE Young “They’re the church of today, and yet youth learn new ways for engagement said Director of Worship, Eric Drew. “This Adults Experience for ages 18-25 is a many young people are fi nding our con- that does not isolate young people, but inclusive opportunity allows clergy, laity, new component being introduced at the gregations irrelevant, making it hard for integrates them into the larger ministry and congregations throughout GNJ see 2017 IGNITE youth conference in Wild- them to fully engage in their growth as both locally and beyond so that more and and be a part of IGNITE fi rsthand.” wood, Sept. 29 – Oct. 1. Young adults disciples.” more youth will fi nd connection whether Churches who sent a group of stu- are invited to take part in a one day Bechtold, himself a product of United they are in a congregation with a large dents or are thinking about sending a workshop, concert, and fellowship event Methodist youth camping programs, sees youth group or just a few others their group are invited to join in worship, as on Saturday, Sept. 30 at The Wildwoods IGNITE as a modern “camp” experience. own age.” well as any GNJ church that would like Convention Center. He praised the IGNITE Young Adults Young adults are invited to register to encourage, support, and be a part of The day will provide an opportunity Experience as a way to engage. at www.gnjumc.org/ignite/youth-adult- the next generation of conference youth. for former IGNITE attendees and United The IGNITE Young Adults Experience experience. Worship and communion will begin on Methodists in this age group to grow in compliments the work GNJ is doing with In another first, IGNITE is inviting Sunday Oct. 1 at 10:00 a.m. Visit www. their faith, learn, fellowship and network Next Generation Ministry to focus pro- GNJ churches to join worship at IGNITE ignitenj.org/worship-at-ignite to print your with other Christians in their generation. gramming and faith formation with young on Sunday, Oct. 1 at The Wildwoods worship tickets and treat your church to The day will feature a young adult’s work- people to create a path to discipleship. Convention Center. Morning worship the authentic IGNITE experience. shop, dinner, and a concert performance “These are important years when the will feature nationally renowned worship by Christian hip-hop artist Tedashii and church has an opportunity to help build leader Meredith Andrews, speaker Pres- singer, song-writer Meredith Andrews. a foundation for living that will last a life- ton Centuolo, and Bishop John Schol. AUGUST 2017 UNITED METHODIST RELAY 9 Coffee Shop Ministry Connects Church with Community By Kamelia Ani through music. participants.” [email protected] The café runs every last Friday night Many are inspired to share their ex- of each month from 7 to 10 and is open periences of enlightenment with their RAHWAY - In the late 1980s, Roy to everyone. Held in the Fellowship Hall fellow worshipers. Vilallva believes that Vilallva noticed that his community in of Trinity UMC, the program starts with this is an essential part of service. Heal- the Philippines was becoming disen- Vilallva’s band playing popular praise ing through music and sharing stories chanted with the traditional church ser- songs for the crowd. The band is made has become increasingly popular. For vice structure. He decided it was time up of talented youth from the church and him, the most gratifying thing is when for a change. they will also often invite bands from an attendee accepts Jesus Christ into Vilallva, a musician and minister, other churches to visit and play. After their life. Coffee shop services have turned to his fellow musician friends for enjoying the music, participants play grown and there are typically 20-30 help. Many of them were Christians but The “Solid Rock Café” coffee house games, sing together, and perform at the participants, with people bringing new played at nightclubs to make a living. He ministry at Trinity UMC in Rahway open mic. There is a short meditation and friends along each time. Jamandre tries asked them to volunteer some of their is providing an alternative way to the night ends with more singing. Food to bring along friends, saying, “For those time to form a band. He then approached bridge the gap between the church and drinks are provided by the church who are apprehensive about attending a the owner of a local Chinese restaurant and the community through creative, and there is an overall feeling of homi- Sunday service, it is a more relaxed, less ness and comfort. The atmosphere is traditional experience. For those look- and asked that the band be allowed to inclusive outreach. Photo provided play during dinner. And with that, a cof- perfect for nurturing a love of Christ and ing for something in addition [to Sunday fee shop ministry was born. The band community. After working with music introducing fellowship. service] it provides another platform to performed Christian praise songs while ministries in several churches, Vilallva Christian Jamadre has been attend- be with fellow believers and share about the diners ate, bringing them closer to took over the music ministry at Trinity ing coffee shop services for fi ve years. their lives and experiences.” God and providing a form of worship for UMC in Rahway. On January 4, 2008, For him, the best part is catching up with The next Solid Rock Café coffee shop those who needed it. he opened the doors to Solid Rock Café, everyone. ministry is set to be held on Friday, Au- When Vilallva moved to the U.S. in a coffee shop ministry modeled after the “On Sundays we can get wrapped up gust 25, and all are welcome to attend 1993, he noticed the same lack of inter- one in the Philippines. The object was to with all the program planning and Sunday for worship, fellowship, networking, or to est in traditional worship -- especially offer an alternative to traditional worship activities,” he said. “Coffee shop is more seek out inspiration to explore modeling among the youth and teenagers in the services and bring people closer to Christ designed to encourage sharing between this type of outreach ministry. CUMAC’s Annual School Supply Drive PATERSON - Every summer CUMAC is partnering with local schools to reach (Center for United Methodist Aid to the more middle and high school students. Community) collects and distributes By donating supplies for different age backpacks and school supplies to lo- groups, supporters can ensure CUMAC’s cal children in need just in time for the ability to serve all who come their way, new school year. Thanks to incredible regardless of grade level. supporters, CUMAC is able to reach To learn more about the school sup- hundreds of students around the Pat- ply drive and how to get involved, call erson community, so they get supplies (973-742-5518) or e-mail events@cu- and tools to succeed in their education. macecho.org CUMAC is collecting school supplies CUMAC feeds people and changes during the month of August. All United lives. It works to alleviate hunger and its Methodist Churches are encouraged root causes for those in need in Pater- to make a donation or hold a collection son, Passaic County, and northern New for school supplies. Every donation can Jersey. give a child the tools they need to learn and grow! CUMAC’s backpack and school Every grade level should be consider supply drive is in full swing, assisting when collection school supply donations. hundreds of students around the Middle and high school students are of- Paterson community. Photo provided by ten an underserved population. CUMAC cumac.org

AVAILABLE NOW ON AMAZON 'RXJ5XIÀH¶V ROADMAP JOIN THE GNJAC UMVIM to HAITI WATER FILTRATION RENEWAL DISTRIBUTION TEAM is available in a newly revised edition that includes a study guide. Take a journey together with others from your local church - JANUARY 6-13, 2018 a road trip that will help you rediscover your true mission. This newly revised and updated edition of Roadmap to Renewal will serve as a vital resource enabling you to reconnect to your mission area. Use the step-by-step process in a small group to come up with a Ministry Action Plan for your community of faith. Know your community. Know your mission. Know your strengths and challenges. Know where you are going. Reach people with the good Application with a $200 deposit is required. news of Jesus Christ! Total trip cost is $1800, including the deposit.

ALSO Three team meetings will occur in: AVAILABLE NOW ON AMAZON, September, October and November. COKESBURY.COM, UPPERROOM.ORG For more details and an application, contact: 'RXJ5XIÀH¶V Brittany Rusk at [email protected] A MISSIONARY or call 609.790.0480. MINDSET Using the timeless principles of E. Stanley Jones, A Missionary Mindset transfers them for use today. Teaching us to approach the PLVVLRQ¿HOGDVLIZHZHUHIURPDGLIIHUHQW country and learning a new culture, a new way of communicating, and a new way to connect people to the good news of the gospel of Jesus Christ. 10 UNITED METHODIST RELAY AUGUST 2017 CONFERENCE HAPPENINGS Pinelands Labor Day Camping Come enjoy the Pinelands Center at Mt. Misery this Labor Day, September 1-4, for a weekend of camping. Trails, waterfront and canteen will be open to campers, and those who pre-register can also enjoy the low ropes course. Bring your tent, RV, or stay in one of the cabins. Call (609)893-3352 or email [email protected] for more information.

St. Paul’s UMC in Bay Head Celebrates Nora Howes 100th Birthday A resident of Brick and retired veteran of WWII, The Korean Confl ict, and the Vietnam War, Nora Howes, mem- ber of St. Paul’s UMC in Bay Head, celebrated her 100th birthday at the church on July 16. Her career in the US Army spanned 28 years, retiring at the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. Among her signifi cant assignments was being Phase I Complete of Sicklerville UMC’s Community Life Center assigned to the general staff of GEN Sicklerville UMC celebrates the completion of Phase I of their plans to build a Douglas MacArthur in Tokyo during the Community Life Center. Phase I included an expanded parking lot and repaving Korean Confl ict. One of her last assign- of existing lots, additional handicap parking spaces, new walkways, lighting and ments was that of the Commanding landscaping. On June 25 they celebrated this milestone with a good old fashion ice Offi cer of the Returnee/Reassignment cream social. Pastor Steve Shuster spoke of the new parking lot being a “welcome Station in Oakland, CA - processing mat” to their church. hundreds of returning American soldiers from combat duty in Vietnam. LTC (ret) Howes received a proclamation from the Mayor and Town Council of Bay Head, No Baby Wet Behind presented by Mayor William Curtis, honoring her on her 100th birthday, and also The UMC at Absecon collected over honoring her growth from that of a fi ve-year-old immigrant from England to the 2,700 diapers and over 4,500 baby U.S., graduating from Neptune High School, engaging a military career beginning in wipes during their “No Baby Wet Be- 1943, earning the rank of Second Lieutenant and fi nishing her career as a Lieuten- hind” campaign over the spring. UMW ant Colonel. Following her military career, she attained a BA in History in California spearhead the effort while church and a Master’s Degree in History shortly thereafter. Following this proclamation, members and the community come she also received an award from the Korean Consulate in the U.S., honoring her together to collect diapers and baby for her service during the Korean Confl ict, and recognizing her as an “Ambassador items for families in need. Pictured for Peace.” Pastor Kee Yang of St Paul’s UMC presented LTC (ret) Howes a medal right: Absecon UMW Linda Babcok, and an engraved plaque on behalf of the Korean Consulate. Additionally, LTC (ret) Lynn Caterson and Sue Reitmeyer. Howes received a congratulatory message from Bishop John Schol. Calling All Clergy Artists Clergy who are also artists or enjoy the arts and invited to collaborate on the 9.17.17 creation of a retreat focused on explor- ing creativity and spirituality. Those who paint, write, sing, compose, draw, sculpt, dance, act, play an instrument, do woodworking or carving or see their preaching and or worship as an art form are encouraged to take part. Those Travis Wetzel interested in helping to create such a community are advised to contact Rev. Ron IN CONCERT Crouch at [email protected] GNJ ANNOUNCEMENTS

Save The Date for Installation Services Rev. Glenn Conaway and Rev. Frank Davis will be installed as new District Super- intendents in September. Please save the date for Sept. 10 at 4:00 p.m. for Rev. Conaway’s installation as Delaware Bay District Superintendent, Trinity, UMC in Mullica Hill, NJ. Please save the date for Sept. 24 at 4:00 p.m. at St. Mark’s UMC in Hamilton Square, NJ for Rev. Davis’ installation as Capital District Superintendent.

All People Conference for Urban Ministry Bishop Schol is joining Rev. Olu Brown, Pastor of Impact Church, and Rev. Junius Dotson, General Secretary of Discipleship Ministries, at the All People Conference, Oct. 21-23 in Columbus, Ohio to explore innovative ministries in the urban environ- ment. Clergy and conference staff will be traveling together by bus to the confer- ence. If you are interested in attending and would like to travel on the GNJ bus that will be leaving on Oct. 20 from the Mission and Resource Center, please contact www.traviswetzel.com Soomin Lee at [email protected] for details.

Featuring music from his newly released album “Inspirations” Marcia’s Melodies September 17, 2017 | 3:00pm zŽƵǁŝůůĮŶĚŵŽƌĞŽĨDĂƌĐŝĂ͛ƐDĞůŽĚŝĞƐĂƚƚŚĞ,ƵďƚŚŝƐƐƵŵŵĞƌƚŚĂŶĞǀĞƌďĞĨŽƌĞ͊ ^ĞǀĞƌĂůŶĞǁĚĞǀŽƟŽŶĂůƐŽŶŐƐĂŶĚĐŚŽƌƵƐĞƐŚĂǀĞďĞĞŶĂĚĚĞĚƚŽƚŚĞĐŽůůĞĐƟŽŶ͘ůƐŽ͕ Everittstown United Methodist Church ƐĞƌǀŝĐĞŵƵƐŝĐĂŶĚϮϬƐŝŵƉůĞŚLJŵŶƐ͕ǁŚŝĐŚĐĂŶďĞƵƟůŝnjĞĚĂƐŶƚŚĞŵƐŽƌŶĞǁ ŵƵƐŝĐĨŽƌƐŵĂůůŐƌŽƵƉƐĂƌĞŝŶƐƚŽĐŬ͘For larger numbers of copies, please special order. 415 County Road 513, Pittstown, NJ 08867 dŚƌĞĞŶŽƚĞŬƐĮůůĞĚǁŝƚŚĂĐƚƵĂůŵƵƐŝĐŚĂǀĞďĞĞŶƉƌĞƉĂƌĞĚĂŶĚŝŶĐůƵĚĞĐŚŽƌĂůĂŶƚŚĞŵƐ͕ At the Crossroads of Rt. 519 & 513 ĐŚŽƌƵƐĞƐΘĚĞǀŽƟŽŶĂůƐŽŶŐƐ͘ƐǁĞůůĂƐ͕ƐŽůŽƐ͕ĚƵĞƚƐ͕ůĂĚŝĞƐƚƌŝŽƐ͕ĂŶĚŵĞŶ͛ƐƋƵĂƌƚĞƚƐ͘

&ƌĞĞĐĂƚĂůŽŐƐŐŝǀĞLJŽƵŶĞĞĚĞĚŝŶĨŽƌŵĂƟŽŶĂďŽƵƚĞĂĐŚƐŽŶŐ͘ To purchase tickets: ŚŽŽƐĞĐĂƚĂůŽŐƐǁŚŝĐŚŝŶƚĞƌĞƐƚLJŽƵ͘,ĂƉƉLJďƌŽǁƐŝŶŐ͊ Call: 908-507-9316 or 908-783-0337 The Hub is now open for the summer season.Be sure to stop in and Or visit: everittstownumc.org ĐŚĞĐŬŽƵƚ>LJŶĚĂ<ƵƐŝĐŬ͛ƐƵŶƵƐƵĂůĂŶĚĂƩƌĂĐƟǀĞŝŶǀĞŶƚŽƌLJ͘ To receive catalogs or to order music: $12 Adults | $5 children under 12 Ăůů͗ϳϯϮ͘ϵϴϴ͘ϯϭϵϭͮŵĂŝů͗ŵĂƌĐŝĂƐŵĞůŽĚŝĞƐϭϱΛŐŵĂŝů͘ĐŽŵ AUGUST 2017 UNITED METHODIST RELAY 11 Church Response to Domestic Violence Online Class Domestic violence occurs in all communities, regardless of a person’s age, ethnic- GNJ ANNOUNCEMENTS ity, or socio-economic status, and the physical, mental, and spiritual effects of such violence can be devastating. An online workshop looks at domestic violence from a New Pastors in the News Christian standpoint and will help churches, clergy, and individuals recognize signs Newly appointed pastors have been getting news coverage across the region. Rev. of domestic abuse and support victims in their community. Cost is $45 and class Kyle Cuperwich of Tabernacle UMC and Chatsworth UMC was featured in The Bur- starts Sept. 11. Learn more and enroll at www.beadisiciple.com lington County Times. GNJ prepared press releases for all newly appointed pastors to use to introduce themselves to their communities. If you did not receive a press release email Josh Kinney at [email protected] Transform The Way Your Church Does Ministry Join ministry leaders from across the nation for Leadership Institute 2017, Sept. Communicate Effectively 27 - 29 in Leawood, Kansas. Super Early pricing ends July 13. The institute invites those who are ready to be challenged, motivated for a renewed commitment to Be sure to provide your most accurate email in order to receive timely, informative, ministry, and seeking Christ-centered inspiration. For details, speakers, and regis- and vital communications from GNJ. Regularly check your junk or spam folders tration visit www.li.cor.org for communications that may have gotten lost. Create separate folders to archive communications such as newsletters, Digest, forms, or messages from the Bishop. Email is the most cost effective way to communicate, and we want to ensure excel- Help People Find Your Church lence in doing so. The Find A Church function on the umc.org website is one of the easiest ways for Sign up for The Digest at: www.gnjumc.org/the-gnj-digestnewsletter-signup/ people to fi nd you on the web. GNJ’s website also links to this page. Please make sure your church’s information is up-to-date on the United Methodist Church’s ‘Find Interpretation Equipment Available a Church’ web page. Visit www.umc.org/fi nd-a-church to search your church. GNJ has interpretation equipment available for agencies, committees and other groups so your next event or service can be interpreted in up to four languages. Visit www.gnjumc.org/translation-equipment-request-form to request use of this equipment. Scholarship Opportunities

Reserve Space at the Mission and Resource Center Scholarship and Grant Opportunities Let the Mission and Resource Center serve you. Request a meeting room or re- The Council of Bishops of The United Methodist Church announce two exciting serve space for your congregation, agency, or committee. Visit www.gnjumc.org for opportunities offered through their offi ce. Applications for a partial scholarship to at- more info. tend The Ecumenical Institute at Bossey during the Fall 2018 Graduate Session are now available as well as applications for one of three annual “Local Initiative Grants.” For more info visit www.gnjumc.org/news

Racial Justice Projects Led by Young People For Grants Racial justice projects initiated and led by young people seeking a church that is OBITUARIES open, loving and caring for all people will receive fi nancial support with funds allocated by the Connectional Table, Discipleship Ministries and two other United Methodist Myrtle Stillwell, widow of Rev. Benjamin M. Stillwell, died on July 1. A Celebration general agencies. Grants up to $2,500 will be available later this year under the new of Life was held on July 6 at Haddonfi eld UMC in Haddonfi eld, NJ. program to be administered by Young People’s Ministries (YPM), a unit of Discipleship Memorial donations (in lieu of fl owers) may be sent in memory of Myrtle Stillwell Ministries. Learn more at www.umcdiscipleship.org to The Neighborhood Center, 278 Kaighns Ave., Camden, NJ 08103. Expressions of sympathy may be sent to Jonathan Stillwell, 121 Oswego Ave., Audubon, NJ 08106 Heritage Center Offers New Grant The African American Methodist Heritage Center offers a new grant to local United Brenda Myra Scott, spouse of Rev. Joseph Scott, died on June 10. A Celebration Methodist African-American congregations using innovative ways to recover, preserve of Life was held on June 19 at John Wesley UMC in Port Norris, NJ. and/or present their histories; or to individuals doing historical research or projects on Expressions of sympathy may be sent to Rev. Joseph Scott, 21 Garwood Blvd., African-Americans in Methodism. The grant, totaling $5,000, will be available every Clayton, NJ 08312 other year. Proposals are due July 31. Find out more at www.aamhc-umc.org.

Alberto Valladares, former Pastor of Simpson UMC in Perth Amboy, died on July 8. A Celebration of Life took place on July 15 at Simpson UMC in Perth Amboy, NJ. Memorial donations (in lieu of fl owers) may be sent in memory of Rev. Alberto Val- ladares to Simpson UMC, 329 High Street, Perth Amboy, NJ 08861. Expressions of sympathy may be sent to Rebecca Valladares (spouse), 331 High Street, Perth Amboy, NJ 08861. HOSPICE AND PALLIATIVE CARE NOW IN THREE LOCATIONS

a general agency of The United Methodist Church Bridges’ apartments in our private assisted living neighborhoods enhance comfort while skilled, compassionate multi-disciplinary teams deliver care. Contact the location of your choice and see why families choose Bridges to support the dignity and dĂŬĞƚŚĞ,YEŽǁƚŽ^ĂǀĞ͊ comfort of their loved ones. ĞĂĚůŝŶĞʹ^ĞƉƚĞŵďĞƌϯϬ

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ϰϮϱϲͬϬϳϭϴϭϳ 12 UNITED METHODIST RELAY AUGUST 2017

THE MISSION FUND IS HEATING UP!

$4,125,149 MISSION FUND CAMPAIGN TOTAL $3,424,670 A FUTURE WITH HOPE

$700,479 IMAGINE NO MALARIA

The United Methodist Church of Greater New Jersey

FULFILL YOUR PLEDGE OR MAKE A NEW ONE AT: www.gnjumc.org/missionfund