Malaria Conference Gets Behind Malaria Eradication Effort Vol

October 2014

$2$2 Imagine No Malaria Conference gets behind malaria eradication effort Vol. 182• October 2014 • No. 10

Connecting with the Virginia Advocate The official magazine of the Virginia Conference of The United Methodist Church

FROM THE EDITOR P.O. Box 5606, Glen Allen, VA 23058 Phone: 1-800-768-6040 or About 15 years ago Lynne and I went on a mission trip 804-521-1100 Fax: 804-521-1174 to Trinidad (I know… suffering for Jesus). I had to come back early E-mail: [email protected] and took a flight that went from Port of Spain, the capital of Trinidad, Website: www.vaumc.org to Guyana on the South American mainland, then on to Miami. In Detailed guidelines for the following Georgetown, Guyana, the empty seat beside me was filled by a man available upon request. from the Seattle area who worked as a mining consultant and a lot Subscriptions Print subscriptions are $15/one year; $25/ of stuff – what seemed like all his worldly possessions. I remember two years; $36/three years. Special bulk he was sweating profusely and didn’t look very well. He went on to rate for five or more copies going to a single address is $12 each for one year. Subscrip- Neill Caldwell tell me he was heading home early because he had come down with tions are $20/year for both printed copy and Editor a serious case of malaria. online access. For online only, cost is $10/ year. Subscribe online at www.vaumc.org, I guess my expression must have given me away, because he im- under “Resources>Publications.” mediately added “oh, but don’t worry, it’s hard to catch. You have to Deadlines be bitten by a certain kind of mosquito ...” The Advocate is published once a month. Like the one hiding there in all your gear, I thought, but didn’t say The deadline to submit news and ad copy for the December 2014 issue is November 1. For that aloud. more information on future deadlines, con- It was an unsettling experience. At home I seem to attract mos- tact the Advocate office or visit the website. quitos, I guess because I am so sweet. I’ve been in several third world Advertising/Tributes Rates for advertising and tributes are avail- countries where the threat of catching malaria from those infernal able upon request. insects is very real, but normally when we Americans travel any- Local Church News Nothing But where we get shots or take medicine that protects us from illnesses Items should be typed (preferably sent via like malaria. e-mail) or printed legibly, no more than 100 Nets words, and of conference-wide interest. Com- on steroids People who live in third world countries are not so lucky. They plete names of individuals, churches and districts need protective bed nets to keep them safe from mosquito bites and should be included. Because of space limitations, the Local Church section prohibits news items all the problems that they cause. Hundreds of millions of people are related to church members’ birthdays (of less than 100 years), wedding anniversaries, still infected each year and many of them die, especially children. receptions for moving and/or retiring pastors, The first weekend in September, at a book festival in North Caro- photos of traditional Chrismon trees or Easter trees/crosses, and any item over two months lina, I ran into Rick Reilly, author and sportswriter, who came up with old. Color photos are encouraged. Photos the original idea of Nothing But Nets. As he was walking by me I liter- returned only if submitted with a stamped, self-addressed envelope. Photos included on ally grabbed his arm so that I could thank him and tell him that I was a space available basis. The editor reserves part of The United Methodist Church. In 2007, The United Methodist the right to edit all copy or refuse publication. Church became a founding partner of Nothing But Nets along with Letters the United Nations Foundation, Sports Illustrated and the NBA. I got Letters to the Editor are printed on a space- available basis. Letters should be limited to to have a wonderful and fairly lengthy conversation with Rick about 150 words for space reasons. The Advocate will not print letters addressing a topic beyond the nets effort and his trips to Africa. two months of the publication of that issue. From its involvement in Nothing But Nets, The United Methodist The Advocate editor reserves the right to Church created Imagine No Malaria. Think of Imagine No Malaria as edit all letters. Nothing But Nets on steroids, because it takes things a step further. ©2014 Virginia Advocate USPS 660-740 ISSN 0891-5598 Not only are we providing nets, we are also providing doctors, nurses, Published monthly by Virginia United Meth- educators and researchers in the effort to eradicate malaria from odist Communications, Inc., an agency of the Virginia Annual Conference of The United our planet. That’s not just a bold goal, but an actual possibility. With Methodist Church. Periodical postage paid at better education and prevention, and better public health facilities in Glen Allen, Va., and at additional mailing offices. The Virginia United Methodist Advocate the areas where malaria is still a killer, we can get rid of it. is owned by Virginia United Methodist Com- The fight to eliminate malaria around the world is an area where munications, Inc. our denomination has a very positive record, and it can only get bet- POSTMASTER: Send changes of address to Virginia United Methodist Advocate, P.O. Box ter with your participation. 5606, Glen Allen, VA 23058. Editorial and business offices are located at 10330 Staples Mill Rd., Glen Allen, Va. Office hours are 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.

2 VIRGINIA ADVOCATE | OCTOBER 2014 TABLE OF CONTENTS

SECTIONS FEATURE

4-5 Commentary 16 Virginia Conference gets behind the denomination’s Imagine No Malaria effort 6-12 Virginia 13 Events NEWS 6 Fredericksburg District dream becomes a reality 14-15 Local Church News 8 Communications professor to lead 5 Talent event

23-27 Nation & World 9 Conference welcomes new inclusivity, lay leadership director 28-29 Equipping for Ministry 10 Shalom Farms helps close the food gap New plan offered for Africa University commitment 30-31 Living the Word 11 12 Blackstone’s bio-mass system is up and running 32 Clergy & Diaconal 24 Average age of UM clergy climbs to 56 34 From the Bishop 25 UMCOR making urgent response to Ebola crisis 35 One Last Word

(Cover) Photo by Mike DuBose for United Methodist Communications (Above) District Superintendents join Bishop Cho to introduce the “Every Life Save a Life” (Imagine No Malaria) campaign at Virginia Annual Conference in June.

The Virginia Advocate Staff Linda S. Rhodes | Virginia Conference Director of Communications Neill M. Caldwell | Editor Cathryn Huff | Graphic Designer Pam Culler | Administrative Secretary Board of Directors of Virginia United Methodist Communications, Inc.: Keri Marston, chair. The Virginia United Scan this code to go Methodist Advocate uses the services of United Methodist Communications and United Methodist News Ser- to the vice. The reporting of news regarding any person or event, or the placement of any advertisement within these conference website: pages, does not constitute endorsement by the Virginia Advocate or any entity of The United Methodist Church. www.vaumc.org Opinions of writers are solely those of the authors and not necessarily those of this publication.

VIRGINIA ADVOCATE | OCTOBER 2014 3 COMMENTARY declined 9.5 percent Blue Ridge Community A tale of four churches (Part 1) while the U.S. popula- Church in Lynchburg tion increased by 11 By Larry Davies percent. Pastor Woody Torrence has more than 2,000 people at- t’s no secret that most v Church attendance is tending four services each churches in America shrinking. While 40 week. Most of those at- are declining. Thom and percent of Americans tending are middle-aged or I say they attend church Joani Schultz, authors of young who either stopped “Why Nobody Wants to Go every week, the actual attending church years ago to Church Anymore” pro- number is closer to 20 or never attended. Their vi- vide alarming statistics: percent. sion is to help people move closer to God. They were v Every year, more than Yet some churches are a small church that made 4,000 churches close, thriving despite the gloomy a big decision in 1991: and approximately numbers. What are they They changed their name 1,000 churches start. doing that I could learn to reflect a new location, Of 350,000 churches from? Recently, I visited and they radically modified across America, only four churches that defy the their format to be more some small and large statistics and are thriving in attractive to unchurched are showing signs of the midst of decline. I have people. Now they are one growth. several successful churches among those I supervise, of the larger churches in v The percentage of but I chose four that are the area. congregations charac- not connected with me in terized by high spiritual Tree of Life Ministries order to see them as any in Lynchburg vitality dropped from other visitor coming for the 43 percent in 2005 to first time. Pastor Mike Dodson also 28 percent in 2010. In Two of the churches has over 2,000 people at- 2000 about a third of are located where I live tending three weekly ser- congregations exhib- in Lynchburg. I know and vices. When you enter the ited excellent financial respect each of the senior building, the first thing you health, but by 2010 that pastors. Two churches notice is hundreds of flags number plummeted to are near Atlanta. All four reflecting virtually every 14 percent. churches influenced me country around the world. (Bottom left): Worship band at Blue The flags represent their v In a recent study, the over the years with their Ridge Community Church in Lynch- desire to reach everyone combined membership creative ministry and lead- burg; (bottom right): worship at Tree with the gospel. They hope of Life Ministries in Lynchburg. of protestant churches ership ideas.

4 VIRGINIA ADVOCATE | OCTOBER 2014 COMMENTARY to accomplish that mission North Point v Stimulating worship a daughter living in our by being creative, innova- Community Church in services with engaging area. Then unprompted, tive and demonstrative in Alpharetta, Ga. music and challenging they shared how much the their method of delivering messages; church meant. There was the gospel message and Pastor Andy Stanley has the woman at the ‘Wel- v Numerous opportunities helping everyone mature over 30,000 people attend- come’ area who took extra to be involved in help- in their relationship with ing multiple services in time to provide information ing others within the Jesus Christ. many different locations. but then shared how her community or world- On the main campus I at- life changed. The “some- Roswell United wide. tended, there were several thing” wasn’t noticeable Methodist Church in thousand people crowded But there was “some- Roswell, Ga. at first but became more into two large amphithe- thing” more... evident with each church Pastor Mike Long has just aters. Their mission is Each of the churches visited. under 2,000 people attend- about creating a church possessed “something” This “something” is ing two weekly services. that unchurched people that had nothing to do what I learned and hope to During the 1990s, I learned love to attend and to lead with size but everything to share with other churches. about Roswell UMC be- people into a growing rela- do with attitude. Thinking Next month, I will try to cause of their innovative tionship with Jesus Christ. back, I regularly witness share this special “some- ministry with Divorce Care “We have created environ- this “something” in many thing” with you. ments and experiences Groups and Single Adults. churches I already work -The Rev. Larry Davies is superin- In their welcome state- to help you grow as an with. I suspect that if I tendent of the Lynchburg District. ment: “Every person is on individual and as families. visited four other healthy some kind of journey in We believe sustained life churches, I would find this this life. Whether new to change happens best in “something” there as well. the community or new to the context of community.” This “something” has no God, join us as we journey denominational ties and is together.” Their vision is At all four churches I seldom taught as a class in making disciples for Jesus experienced... seminary. Christ who invite, grow and v Generous hospitality, I saw “something” in the serve together. “As disciples from parking lot greet- parking lot attendant who our goal is to walk in His ers to welcome stations stepped away from his steps offering our prayers, to coffee bars; area to make sure my car presence, gifts and ser- lights would turn off, then (Bottom left): Youth worship at v A casual, relaxed atmo- vice.” walked with me to provide Roswell United Methodist Church sphere that encouraged in Roswell, Ga; (bottom right): directions. There was the informality in dress and After-church gameday celebration couple who sat beside attitude; at North Point Community Church in us in worship. They had Alpharetta, Ga.

VIRGINIA ADVOCATE | OCTOBER 2014 5

The United Methodist connection in VIRGINIA extensive camping experi- Fredericksburg District Heartwood Center ence, Powell designed the ropes courses, coordinated ministries no longer just a vision daily local mission excur- sions and designed and led By Dan Deitze, Gayle nutritious snacks, fresh daily Bible studies, among “If you want Porias and Teresa Smith fruit and vegetables, easily many other tasks. prepared entrees, juice, Vacation Bible School to make a “Daddy, Daddy, we’ll have cereal, peanut butter, jelly was offered in August for difference in food this week!” and bread. More than 50 children ages 5 through hen the volun- students participated and fifth grade. this community, teer who was more are expected as the Wcarrying the food word gets out. Volunteers How did all this begin? you need to box out to the car heard from Fredericksburg District Many years ago, the for- the child’s exclamation, it churches have donated mer Ashland District pur- round up the was confirmation that the food and money, sorted chased a 24-acre parcel of Fredericksburg District’s and packed boxes, wel- land in the Hartwood com- teenagers and vision and plans were on comed guests and carried munity, nine miles west of target. boxes to vehicles, as well Fredericksburg on Route offer them The children were as listened to and prayed 17. The goal of the Ash- receiving food as a result with individuals. Linda land District was to plant a some daytime of one of the new Heart- Hyson from Mount Horeb new faith community, but wood Summer Ministry UMC and Frances Vaughn the effort didn’t succeed. activities to programs. The Heartwood from Eastland UMC are the With the creation of the Summer Ministry began in food ministry coordinators. Fredericksburg District in keep them out June with a food distribu- Although the main purpose 2011, many began to ask tion ministry for families is to provide needed food what would become of the of trouble.” who participate in the for children, Hyson always property. In the spring of Federal free and reduced reminds us “it’s also about 2012, the Rev. Ted Smith, the relationships” that we A Hartwood Volunteer lunch programs at school, the Fredericksburg District are forming in the com- first responder Vacation Bible School and superintendent, proposed two mission camps for munity. a 40-day season of prayer, teenagers. Mission camps for teen- inviting district United Members at Rehoboth UMC prepared The weekly food distri- agers were led by Powell Methodists to ask God how a meal for the Teen Day Camp. bution program provides Smith from New Hope UMC. the property could be used Powell and his adult volun- to transform lives, respond teers are focusing on char- to community and world acter-building activities, needs, and bring glory to group-building activities, God. The 74 congregations local mission work such as of the district were pro- volunteering at a home- vided with demographic less shelter, recreation and data, daily scripture read- spiritual formation. One of ings and encouragement the volunteers at the camp to journal responses to the was impressed with how prayer. After that period the ropes course encour- of prayer, the responses aged the campers to work were submitted to district together to find solutions leaders and published in and provided opportuni- the district newsletter. The ties for budding leaders overwhelming response to emerge and practice was the vision of a com- leadership skills. Using his munity center and mission

6 VIRGINIA ADVOCATE | OCTOBER 2014

The United Methodist connection in VIRGINIA training center. than a Fredericksburg teenagers and offer them With the clear vision es- District summer program some daytime activities to tablished for the property, and construction project. keep them out of trouble.” the district Mission Board It has become a com- So, district leaders took the discussed and approved munity effort between suggestion and incorporat- a recommendation to district congregations, local ed it into the ministry plan. construct the community groups, Hartwood Presby- This fall the district will center and mission training terian Church, Hartwood host a town hall-style gath- center. The recommenda- Elementary School PTA, ering to share the results of tion was sent to the district the England Run Stafford the summer ministry, seek Connectional Ministries THE County library, and Stafford feedback regarding possi- Team, which approved it Junction, (a faith-based ble 2015 summer ministry unanimously. The Connec- HEARTWOOD nonprofit agency empow- needs and share informa- tional Ministries approval CENTER ering children, youths and tion about building con- led to the creation of a their families in Stafford struction plans. The Heart- Construction Team and a County). wood construction team Summer Ministry Coordina- the total cost identified “The Heartwood minis also in the process of tion team. Since the date was $8,000. In a very short istry has experienced an soliciting bids from building of construction approval, time, responses to appeals outpouring of sharing the contractors and preparing a number of steps have for summer ministry fund- love of Christ with children, the necessary paperwork taken place to make the ing exceeded $13,000. This youths, and their families,” to address zoning issues vision a reality including may not be a sign or guar- said the Rev. Gayle Porias and secure a building per- vision casting meeting, de- antee that $6 million can of Mount Horeb UMC. The mit. The district leadership velopment of local ministry be raised, but it has been community support began team anticipates beginning partnerships, fund-raising a source of inspiration and with two Boy Scout troops major fundraising efforts in for the summer ministries, confirmation that God is that blazed a hiking trail the late fall or early winter. creation of promotional leading hearts and minds and placed mulch at the Contrary to the anxieties documents with the help into acts of generosity. Heartwood site. A local re- of some Fredericksburg of the Virginia Conference Following the $13,000 tirement community held District congregations and Communications office, came an additional gift of two food drives for the members, fundraising will guidance from the confer- $35,000 from Salem UMC, summer food program. The not be sought through ence staff, and guidance which will be directed to suggestion of a mission district apportionments. from Stafford County gov- the construction phase of camp for teenagers and The district will gladly ac- ernment officials. the vision. The generous additional support came cept “second mile” gifts When asked where financial donations have from the Hartwood Volun- from within (or beyond) the the Fredericksburg District been equally matched with teer Fire Department. district, but will seek out will get the estimated $6 extravagant gifts of time District Superintendent major gifts to cover both million to complete such a and other resources. In Smith went throughout the construction costs and bold venture, district lead- fact, the Heartwood min- community to talk with ongoing operating costs. ers have responded with istry teams ceased to be local folks about the vision This is the blessing that “we don’t have six million amazed when the England for a ministry and building has become the Freder- dollars but God has much Run library staff began construction. The Freder- icksburg District Heartwood more than what we need; bringing persons to food icksburg District refers to Center vision. It has proven in fact, we know that if we distribution and for prayer these meetings as vision to be a blessing through- stay faithful and focused and counseling. We also casting conversations. In out the district, the region on the vision, God will pro- continue to receive inqui- the vision casting con- and beyond. Thanks be to vide the dollars.” Thus far ries from local non-profit versation with Hartwood God! this belief has been tried agencies asking how they Volunteer first responders, -Rev. Gayle Porias serves and tested in the response can join in the ministry one of the participants said Mount Horeb. Rev. Teresa Smith to the summer ministries. partnership. “if you want to make a dif- serves New Pathways Ministry In developing the budget ference in this community, and New Hope. Dan Dietz is the Heartwood Summer district lay leader. for the summer ministries, Ministries became more you need to round up the

VIRGINIA ADVOCATE | OCTOBER 2014 7 The United Methodist connection in VIRGINIA weekly worship services. October events to focus on effective “I wanted to understand how we talk Monday communications and prayer through Saturday,” she said. “Not just how the 5 Talent Academy next 5 Talent Academy congregation talks, but r. Maria Dixon Hall teaching session, doesn’t the staff meetings and the is not one to mince sugar-coat. With a back- denominational meetings Dwords. ground in both the church and the worship meetings “People are not coming and in business, Dixon and the letters that pastors to our churches or fill- Hall tries to show how the send. I wanted to under- ing our pews because we church can learn from the stand those and then see are BORING,” she recently business world about how how they translate to how told the United Methodist to communicate more ef- the church is perceived Reporter. “Rather than giv- fectively. broadly.” ing them the fount of living “Evangelism, Communi- She gives The United water in a way relevant cation and Church Growth” Methodist Church low and contextualized to their will be offered on Saturday, marks. Dr. Maria Dixon Hall will lead the own reality, we give people Oct. 4, from 9 a.m. to 3 “We have a culture of next 5 Talent Academy stagnant homilies or self- p.m., at Floris UMC in Hern- niceness. We avoid conflict, help sermons devoid of any don, and broadcast to nine so we are not able to hash realistic attachment to the additional locations across things out. Our leaders awesome and life-changing the conference. are not able to hash out revelation of Jesus Christ. Dixon Hall, associate these very complex issues, Frankly, our services and professor of Organizational and so in turn, they’re our preaching is not com- Communication at South- unable to help the body pelling enough for most ern Methodist University, of Christ and the people people to miss ‘Meet the will explore evangelism who are called Methodists Press,’ ‘SportsCenter,’ or a through the lens of solid hash them out. When an ‘Law & Order’ marathon. and fruitful communication organization doesn’t have a We simply have forgotten practices. way of engaging in conflict, that the gospel of Jesus As a professor, Dixon then they have to find a Christ requires us to TELL Hall focuses on organiza- place to do it, and unfortu- THE STORY of Jesus Christ in tional strategy and plan- nately, that’s what General Dr. Wendy Miller will be the featured the language of the people. ning. She has a B.S. in mar- Conference has become. speaker at the “Lord, Teach Me to keting from the University “We don’t tell our own Pray” event in October. Don’t forget that George Whitefield didn’t have a of Alabama; an M.Div. and stories well. … Human be- PA system or a Power- a Th.M. in homiletics from ings are storytelling crea- Point, yet he could compel Candler School of Theology; tures. From the time that thousands of working class and a Ph.D. in organization- we are born, we are moved people to give their lives al communication from the and motivated by stories. to Christ by preaching the University of Missouri. She United Methodists have beautiful simplicity of the also spent time working for become poor storytellers. gospel.” Dow Chemical Co. We no longer can tell our No, the leader for the Dixon Hall told Duke congregation where they Divinity School’s Faith & fit in the story of Christ. Leadership that she came We no longer can commu- to it because she wanted nicate the difference that to understand the church Christ has made in our lives not from its sermons but and in the world, and we from the communication are unable to tell people that happens between why they should be a star-

8 VIRGINIA ADVOCATE | OCTOBER 2014 The United Methodist connection in VIRGINIA ring member in this story.” UMC, Francis Asbury UMC in ology in Dallas. ing as a chaplain at Virginia “Our district superin- Virginia Beach, Macedonia “Jesus models a rhythm Mennonite Retirement tendents and our bishops UMC in White Post and St. of prayerful retreat and Community and as associ- are so overtaxed they don’t Luke’s UMC in Yorktown. outward engagement in his ate pastor of Bethlehem get a chance to know the own life,” said Miller. “It can (Pa.) Mennonite Church. people they’re serving be very helpful for people She’s the author of three with,” Dixon Hall added. ‘Lord, Teach Me to Pray’ to slow down and move books – Learning to Listen: “We’ve created an adver- Another major confer- away from an overloaded A Guide for Spiritual Friends, sarial relationship between ence-sponsored event this schedule and life and open Invitation to Presence and the clergy and the leader- fall will be “Lord, Teach Me up to God, the world of the Jesus, Our Spiritual Direc- ship, which turns into an to Pray – Practical Appli- spirit, their own soul.” tor: A Pilgrimage Through adversarial relationship cations for Prayer,” which Miller earned her B.A. the Gospels, – all published between the pew and the will be offered Saturday, from Iowa Wesleyan Col- by Upper Room. She also pulpit.” Oct. 25, at St. Thomas UMC, lege, an M.A. in church writes an online column For more informa- Manassas. The speaker will leadership from EMS, and on the Eastern Menno- tion, visit www.vaumc. be Dr. Wendy Miller, profes- studied at the Shalem In- nite website called “Soul org/5Talent. Live-stream sor emeritus of Spiritual stitute for Spiritual Forma- Space.” sites will be: Blacksburg Formation at Eastern Men- tion and did further work To register, visit the con- UMC, Franktown UMC, nonite Seminary (EMS) and at General Theological ference website at www. Timberlake UMC in Lynch- adjunct faculty at Garrett- Seminary. She has taught vaumc.org under “Events” burg, Fairview UMC in Evangelical Theological at Eastern Mennonite since and the date. Danville, Woodlake UMC in Seminary in Evanston, Ill., 1991, and her previous Chesterfield, Bridgewater and Perkins School of The- experience includes serv-

Conference welcomes new director of Inclusivity and Lay Leadership Excellence

heryl Edley-Worford is the new Virginia tant and director of Multicultural Education Conference director of Inclusivity and for Randolph-Macon Woman’s College (now CLay Leadership Excellence, effective Randolph College), chaplain for United Col- Sept. 2. lege Ministries, and counselor for Winston- The announcement from the Person- Salem State University in North Carolina. nel Committee for the Common Table for In addition, she served as a U.S.-2 mission Church Vitality said that “Cheryl brings a worker in establishing a new United Method- unique blend of education, experience, and ist campus ministry at Winston-Salem State. gifts that fit the ministry requirements of Her educational background includes a the director of Inclusivity and Lay Leader- Bachelor of Arts from Duke University, an ship Excellence.” Educational Specialist degree from James She will relate to the conference Board Madison University and a Master of Theologi- of Laity and Board of Discipleship, Commis- cal Studies from Wesley Theological Semi- sion on Disabilities, Commission on Status nary. and Role of Women, Commission on Eth- Edley-Worford is a member of Jackson Cheryl Edley-Worford is the new Vir- nic Minority Concerns and Advocacy, Lay Street UMC in Lynchburg, where she’s been a ginia Conference director of Inclusiv- ity and Lay Leadership Excellence. Servant Ministries, Older Adult Council, Camp lay speaker, youth group leader and Sunday Rainbow Connection and will be the point school teacher. person for Discipleship Circles. She and her husband, Peter Worford, Edley-Worford is an adjunct psychology have a son, Joel, who is a freshman at Long- instructor for Central Virginia Community wood University. College. She has been a counselor/consul-

VIRGINIA ADVOCATE | OCTOBER 2014 9 The United Methodist connection in VIRGINIA

By Claire Mills the healthy food gap,” the feet that are making Shalom Dominic Barrett, director of a difference. Their work s I approached Sha- Shalom Farms, said. on the farm helps bring Farms helps lom Farms on a Shalom Farms is closing affordable fresh produce Acloudy summer the food gap with cre- to low-income communi- close the morning, I immediately ative initiatives that build ties through food pantries, caught sight of volunteers relationships with people after-school programs, ‘food gap’ harvesting crops. Others who lack access to fresh pop-up markets and edu- carried buckets of just healthy food. They part- cational activities. picked peppers, tomatoes ner to manage Youth Run “At the heart of what and squash down the rows Farm Stands that bring kids we are doing is engag- at the community farm “good experiences with ing churches in mission,” project of United Methodist good food” in underserved Barrett said. “It’s beautiful Urban Ministries. The yield neighborhoods. With Bon to see different churches, from the lush green fields Secours, they offer the Pre- different denominations, in Goochland County has scription Produce Plan that different faith groups been feeding the hungry fills prescriptions with fresh working side by side in a in Richmond’s inner city food, healthy recipes and shared theology of growing since 2008. But these days, cooking classes. Now in its and sharing good food. We Shalom Farms is harvesting second year, the Prescrip- are blessed that so many more than fresh food for tion Produce is reaching 60 churches want to support low-income residents. households and nearly 300 us. It’s really the only way “We are increasing people. In July, residents we can survive.” access to healthy food in from Creighton Court came On the day that I urban Richmond. Of the to Shalom Farms to learn visited the farm, volun- 85,000 pounds of produce more about fresh food and teers from two churches we will raise this year, ways to prepare it. in South Richmond were more than 35,000 pounds Shalom Farms is pitching in to pick veg- of it will go to FeedMore strengthening these etables and pack them in for its Central Virginia Food programs to help fulfill crates. Among the group Bank, Meals on Wheels its mission. “Thousands from Woodlake UMC were and Kids Cafes. The rest of in Richmond lack access a mother and daughter Rand and Lillian Mauck, mother and it will go to our partners to healthy food,” says the team, Rand and Lillian daughter from Woodlake UMC, pick tomatoes at Shalom Farms. in the city where Shalom Shalom Farms mission Mauck. Working in the Photos by Claire Mills. Farms is helping to close statement. “Many also lack garden is something they the tools and resources enjoy together at home. to prepare and share it. “Picking vegetables is Shalom Farms seeks to col- something we can also laboratively transform the do together at Shalom Richmond food system so Farms, and my daughter that all people have access learns how we can help to good food – food that is the community,” Rand good for our bodies, good said. “It’s a tangible way to for the environment, and help others. We touch the good for our communities.” vegetables that will be on Before the farm fresh someone’s dinner table.” bounty reaches its destina- Laurie Cigal, another tion in Richmond, most of member of the team the planting and harvesting from Woodlake UMC, at Shalom Farms is done really enjoys supporting by community volunteers. the work to feed people They are the hands and who don’t have access to

10 VIRGINIA ADVOCATE | OCTOBER 2014 The United Methodist connection in VIRGINIA New plan offered to help reach Africa University endowment goal

he 2013 Virginia to relate this plan to their Annual Conference Charge Conferences.” Tvoted to establish Located in Zimbabwe, a $1 million endowment Africa University celebrated for Africa University. The its 20th anniversary last endowment was to be year. Nearly 5,000 men and created over a three-year women have graduated period, which will end in from the university. Africa 2015. The Rev. Steve Hund- University is the first fully ley presented the proposal accredited, United Meth- at conference and then odist-related institution moved to the Western Juris- on the African continent diction to become director established by the action of Connectional Ministries of General Conference and healthy food. “I keep think- seeds that they helped to for the California-Pacific the first private university ing about how thankful plant. Then they carefully Conference. in Zimbabwe. The majority families will be to get this pack the vegetables in “The original plan was of faculty and administra- food,” she said. crates that are loaded onto to collect one dollar per tive staff are Africans, who Volunteers from The a truck headed to Rich- member from the local serve alongside visiting Brandermill Church were mond. churches in the conference. educators from the United busy picking squash and It’s not exactly a miracle To date less than $10,000 States, Europe and around zucchini. Even though a with baskets of loaves and has been sent from the the world. The cost of heavy rain the night before fishes. But as I watched the churches and there is a educating a student at the had left the fields muddy, crates of red juicy toma- question as to whether all University for one year is they didn’t seem to mind. toes and sunny squash pile churches have been fully $5,600, which covers tu- “This is our intergen- up at Shalom Farms, I mar- apprised of the plan,” said ition fees, room and board, erational mission,” said veled at the glory of the Judge Willard Douglas Jr., medical care and Student Tammy Tipton-Nay, direc- garden. I could imagine this who with the Rev. Clarence Union fees. tor of Children and Family food restoring health and Brown have developed a Checks can be made Ministries at The Brander- wholeness to families one new plan to reach the goal payable to the Virginia mill Church, which sends meal at a time. I thought by 2015 Annual Confer- Annual Conference with a a group once a month to about the mom who wants ence. note on the reference line volunteer at Shalom Farms. to feed her children fresh “The new plan is for that it is being designated “We start in February and vegetables but doesn’t 1,000 members to contrib- for the “Africa University witness a beautiful picture have a grocery store in ute $1,000 by Annual Con- Endowment.” They can of the whole cycle from her neighborhood. Or the ference next summer, or be sent to the conference seed to harvest,” she said. diabetic who lives in public 500 couples giving $2,000 Treasurer at Virginia Confer- Last Christmas, the con- housing and struggles with each,” says Douglas. “We ence, P.O. Box 5605, Glen gregation at The Brander- poor health but doesn’t are calling on persons to go Allen, VA 23058. mill Church raised funds for know about healthy eating the second mile because For more information, a gift of $19,000 to support practices. For them, the we don’t want their contri- go to www.support-afri- the spring planting at Sha- bounty of Shalom Farms is bution to their respective cauniversity.org. lom Farms. This summer, a godsend. churches to be minimized. here they are harvesting -Claire Mills is founder andeditor of We are also asking the produce grown from the the website, faithinrichmond.com. district superintendents

VIRGINIA ADVOCATE | OCTOBER 2014 11 The United Methodist connection in VIRGINIA the 110,000 square foot directed to a specific wing Blackstone’s bio-mass center. The Board approved and floor of the building. In moving forward with the the past, heating the center furnace is up and running bio-mass heating system meant heating the entire even though it was the first four-story building. The of its kind and size to be excess heating capacity has installed in the region. been directed to the indoor As part of the swimming pool (through a installation package, the heat exchanger), allowing old boilers were removed the pool water to be and the boiler house was maintained at a constant 88 renovated to accommodate degrees Fahrenheit. the new furnace and The initial cost of operating equipment. the system was much The old smoke stack was greater than purchasing replaced and the boiler a replacement oil-fired building was reconfigured boiler, but as an incentive to provide a maintenance to undertake the additional shop upstairs. Additionally, capital expenditure, the U.S. space was added to Department of Agriculture accommodate wood provided financing. chip fuel and provide an Additionally, the financing fter nearly two different fuels in an effort automatic feed system, package allowed the center years of planning, to find the most efficient adding wood or grass into to include existing debt Athe Blackstone and economical fuel. the boiler as needed. so that the cash flow was Conference and Retreat Air intake and fuel mix To enhance efficiency, greatly improved for the Center (Virginia United are adjustable to allow valves were installed center’s operations. Methodist Assembly optimization of combustion allowing heat to be -Glen Huff Center) has installed a new and heat generation. The bio-mass heating system furnace has a built-in triple that generates heat for smoke recovery system Blackstone launches appeal the center while saving to maximize thermal thousands of dollars in efficiency. for ‘Partners’ expenses. Unlike the prior boilers, Two dilapidated oil- the new system is no he Virginia United Methodist Assembly Center at fired boilers were replaced longer dependent on Blackstone is seeking “Partners” to help upgrade with a system capable of expensive heating oil. Fuels Tfacilities and expand services. producing two million BTUs for the bio-mass system are “We’ve been providing services and facilities for retreats of heat per hour while available locally and are all and conferences for Virginia United Methodists for more resulting in a savings of renewable energy sources. than 60 years,” says the Rev. Tommy Herndon, chairman of approximately $8,500 per In 2012 Blackstone’s the Blackstone board, “and we want to continue that minis- month and the elimination Board of Directors first try for children, youth and adults, clergy and laity.” of almost all carbon considered the bio-mass Blackstone is asking local churches and church groups, emissions. solution to address a as well as individual United Methodists, to become “Part- This system is designed host of problems arising ners” in supporting the center’s ministry. About 80 percent to burn a variety of from its old boilers. One of the annual budget is met by user fees from groups which different fuels: wood boiler was not operational use the facilities, but the remainder must come from gifts chips, wood pellets, wood and the other required and contributions. The center is also dependent on gifts and biscuits, sawdust, even frequent maintenance. contributions for renovations. grass. During the past Spiraling costs of heating oil For more information, call the center at (434) 292-5308 several months Blackstone accentuated the need for or Jim Bergdoll, the “Partners” coordinator, at (757) 477- has experimented with a new approach to heating 7657 or email [email protected].

12 VIRGINIA ADVOCATE | OCTOBER 2014 EVENTS

OCTOBER your average weekly worship attendance for 2013, as re- corded by the Cabinet, is more than 350. The Rev. Dr. Lovett Weems, director of the Lewis Center for Church Leader- 5 Talent Academy ship at Wesley Theological Seminary, will lead the event. Oct. 4, Floris UMC, Herndon (and live streamed through- The cost is $25, which includes lunch. Questions may be out the conference) directed to Pat Hickman at [email protected]. Registration is now open for the 5 Talent Academy “Evan- gelism, Communication and Church Growth” event on Virginia Chapter PAUMCS event Saturday, Oct. 4, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., at Floris UMC in Oct. 29, Virginia United Methodist Center, Glen Allen Herndon, and broadcast to nine additional locations across Experience your conference connection as speakers from the conference. Maria Dixon Hall, associate professor of the conference Board of Communications address the need Organizational Communication at Southern Methodist to communicate in a technology-infused world, including University, will explore evangelism through the lens of solid social media, website design, web hosting and blogging. For and fruitful communication practices. Registration is open more information, contact Bev Myers, the Professional As- to all Virginia Conference churches regardless of affiliation sociation of United Methodist Church Secretaries (PAUMCS) with the 5 Talent Academy. Visit www.vaumc.org/5Talent Virginia Chapter president, at [email protected] or to register; registration deadline is Sept. 19. Registration call 1-800-768-6040, ext. 134 or (804) 521-1134. You can is $25 per person and includes lunch. Live stream sites are: register on the conference website at www.vaumc.org Blacksburg UMC, Franktown UMC, Timberlake UMC in under “Events” and the date. Lynchburg, Fairview UMC in Danville, Woodlake UMC in Chesterfield, Bridgewater UMC, Francis Asbury UMC NOVEMBER in Virginia Beach, Macedonia UMC in White Post and St. Luke’s UMC in Yorktown. Middle School Retreat Nov. 14-16, Eagle Eyrie, Lynchburg Mid-Size Church Lead Pastor event For more information, contact Becky Tate in the Office of Oct. 16, Good Shepherd UMC, Richmond Ministries with Young People, at [email protected], or This event, with the theme “Leading Your Congregation to call 1-800-768-6040, ext. 139 or (804) 521-1139. New Life,” will be a time for the mid-size church lead pastors (average worship attendance between 150-349) in the New Church Leadership Institute Virginia Conference to gather for networking and learning. Nov. 17-19, United Methodist Center, Glen Allen The Rev. Jim Harnish, a United Methodist minister from The New Church Leadership Institute is for pastors both Florida and author of “You Only Have to Die,” will be the discerning a call to be a church planter and/or seeking ways speaker. The cost is $25, which includes lunch. For more to offer revitalization for existing congregations. It can help information contact Pat Hickman at PatHickman@vaumc. the participant discern their ministry style by offering clarity org. in ministry competencies, core behaviors and spiritual gifts. For more information contact the Rev. Mark Ogren at ‘Lord, Teach Me to Pray’ [email protected] or call 1-800-768-6040, ext. 156. Oct. 25, St. Thomas UMC, Manassas “Lord, Teach Me to Pray – Practical Applications for Prayer” DECEMBER will be offered again in October. The main speaker will be Dr. Wendy Miller, professor emeritus of Spiritual Forma- High School Retreat tion at Eastern Mennonite Seminary and adjunct faculty at Dec. 5-7, Eagle Eyrie, Lynchburg Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary in Evanston, Ill., For more information, contact Becky Tate in the Office of and Perkins School of Theology in Dallas. Visit the confer- Ministries with Young People, at [email protected], or ence website at www.vaumc.org under “Events” and the call 1-800-768-6040, ext. 139 or (804) 521-1139. date.

Large Church Lead Pastor gathering Oct. 28, Roslyn Retreat Center, Richmond This annual event offers clergy a time of networking and learning for the large church lead pastors in the conference. Registration for this event will be open to pastors only if

VIRGINIA ADVOCATE | OCTOBER 2014 13 DISCIPLES HELPING TO TRANSFORM THE WORLD recognizing the service each gives to the church and, most importantly, to God. Each honoree received gifts and a certificate. The Man of the Year was James Jordan, the treasurer for the charge and church, a member of the choir and always willing to serve in whatever capacity is needed. Brenda Goad was recognized as Woman of the Year (pictured); she is Missionary ▲ Over the past four years, the Treasurer, choir member, a mainstay Keezletown and McGaheysville in the kitchen, cleans the church and UMCs have teamed up to package sets up Holy Communion. The Rev. cost for items in the snack pack is 80,000 meals for Stop Hunger Now. Kelvin Edwards Sr. is the church pas- $6,000 per school year. Items are Tanya Eppard, a member at Keezle- tor. then packed in a 1-gallon Ziploc bag town, has coordinated the project. and delivered to school, where they are discreetly placed in the student’s backpack by their teacher. Pictured, Robins and Ruby Ingram. ▲

▲

▲ Members and guests formed a The “snack pack” program at prayer circle around Thrasher UMC Salem UMC in Diggs was recently in Roanoke on Sept. 7. They started blessed during worship service by the praying while facing the church, then Rev. Brian Johnson. Mary Jo Robins

turned outward and prayed for their is the oldest member of Salem UMC community and the world. at 95, but you would never know it ▲ by how much she contributes to the church and the United Methodist Women. In 2010, Robins brought up the idea to begin a program for under- privileged children in Mathews County ▲ Mount Pleasant UMC in Roanoke Public Schools. The program began marked the end of a summer-long by providing 20-22 children over the children’s Bible school with a Celebra- weekend with nutritious snack packs. tion Sunday. Wonderful Wednesdays Currently the program provides 40-50 began in 2013 with three children. elementary students with snack packs This summer, 72 children participated! ▲ Halesford UMC recently held its every Friday during the school year. Boys competed against the girls to Men’s and Women’s Sunday celebra- This program is supported by dona- raise money for missions in Africa. tion. Halesford UMC selects a Man of tions from the congregation, the local Pastor Robert Stutes completed three the Year and a Woman of the Year, community and grants. The average challenges after worship on Aug. 24 –

14 VIRGINIA ADVOCATE | OCTOBER 2014 fundraiser. Together with the Easter Lenten offering collection of $355, a check for $2,280 was sent to Seeds of Hope, the first shelter of this kind in Costa Rica. More information about Seeds of Hope can be found on the website www.seedsofhopehome. com. Pictured, from left: Parks, LeM- ond, Haynie and Lewis.

▲ On Friday, Oct. 24, Sudley United Methodist Women will hold their An- nual Turkey/Oyster Dinner and Bazaar. This year will be the 91st consecutive year that the event has been held. The bazaar will be open from 11 a.m. to 7 getting a “Mohawk” haircut, getting year, the group raised money for the p.m. Sudley UMC is located at 5308 dunked in ice water, and then being Imagine No Malaria campaign dur- Sudley Road, Manassas. slimed! The director of children and ing an eight-week study of Romans. youth ministries is Heather St. Clair. Attendees came from Calvary UMC, The 62nd Annual Harvest Day, Beverly Hills UMC, Galloway UMC, with the theme “Touch a Child’s Life, ▲ Main Street Church, South Sudley UMC, Graham Road UMC, Change a Future,” will be held Nov. Boston, Farmville District, recently Friendship UMC (the host church), St. 11 at Trinity UMC in Richmond. hosted Eagle Scouts Cycling Across John’s UMC and Bruen Chapel UMC. For more information, contact Dee America. Thirteen Eagle Scouts from On the last night, attendees dressed Clements at (804) 270-4404 or dee. Troop 165 in Fredericksburg were up as insects and celebrated raising [email protected]. Trinity UMC is

on day 59 of a 4,000-mile journey $400 for Imagine No Malaria! located at 903 Forest Ave., Richmond. across America to raise awareness ▲ of the value of exercise and healthy After visiting Costa Rica in 2013 The food pantry at Heritage living. They started in California and and learning about Seeds of Hope, a UMC, Elizabeth River District, is ended their journey in Virginia Beach. Christian shelter for girls ages 8-17 working to serve the needs of the Pictured, the riders pose with Pastor who have been sexually exploited, community. With a dedicated team Ed Rigg (center). Sandra Haynie, a member of Cheri- of more than 50 volunteers, families ton UMC, started a mission project are served each second Saturday of to raise funds for the facility. She, the month, plus a countless number along with church members Stepha- of others who come during the week. nie LeMond, Bonnie Lewis and Nancy With the support of church members, Parks (calling themselves “The Chalky family, friends, other local churches Chicks”) repainted more than 30 and the Elizabeth River District, the pieces of furniture and raised more church has fed the hungry of Virginia than $1,900 at the annual Spring Fling Beach for more than eight years.

▲ Every summer for the last 12 years, youths from several churches gathered each Wednesday night for “Jesus and Java,” with refreshments, Bible study, worship and service. This

VIRGINIA ADVOCATE | OCTOBER 2014 15 Beating Malaria, one household at a time

Photos by Mike DuBose for United Methodist Communications

16 VIRGINIA ADVOCATE | OCTOBER 2014 Beating Malaria, one household at a time

By Carrie Madren

or Bilyatu Luther, a widow who cares for her four children and two Fextended family members, malaria has been a constant menace. Luther, who lives in Nigeria and works as a cleaner earning less than the national minimum wage, has felt the financial burden as well as the emotional strain of malaria — sometimes taking each child and dependent to the clinic as many as three or four times in the rainy season. Last year, Luther and her family received three insecticide-treated bed nets from the Rural Health Center in Zing, and now make noticeably fewer visits to the health clinic for malaria treatments. “I want to extend my sincere gratitude to the donors for providing these humani- tarian services at virtually no cost,” says Luther, whose family is among the many who have received mosquito nets and training through Imagine No Malaria. Since 2008, the Imagine No Malaria program, implemented by the United Meth- odist Committee on Relief (UMCOR), has worked to fight malaria and prevent malarial deaths. Their efforts have organized and trained some 11,600 local people in villages and communities. These people reach and teach neighbors about this fatal — and fully preventable — disease through educating, distributing nets, providing health care and other means. (Continued on next page)

VIRGINIA ADVOCATE | OCTOBER 2014 17 (Continued from previous page)

The stakes are high: Hun- dreds of thousands of adults and children die from malaria each year. Ninety percent of malaria-related deaths occur on the African continent. Children younger than age 5 and pregnant women are the most susceptible. However, through teaching families about the causes of malaria and supplying them with free bed nets, United Methodists are turning the tide and saving lives. Because malaria continues to kill at a high rate in Africa, programs have been at work in Dispelling myths Sierra Leone, Angola, Zimbabwe and Democratic Repub- While those living near urban areas often already lic of Congo … and beyond. understand how malaria starts and spreads, those in rural Neighbor to neighbor areas tend to know less about the disease and its connec- When Imagine No Malaria’s staff begins work with a tion to mosquitoes. “They have some basic knowledge and community, local leaders help identify potential trained can tell you when the trends are, but they don’t know that supervisors, who, in turn, recruit community volunteers it’s the female Anopheles mosquito looking for blood to to go door to door. It is neighbors talking to neighbors, feed her eggs,” Dunbar says. Malaria has been around for explains Nyamah Dunbar, UMCOR senior program manager so long, she continues, that many people simply view it as for Imagine No Malaria. part of the rainy season. “The local volunteers are invested in the program. … “There are a lot of myths out there [about malaria],” These are people who will see [the families] more fre- says Jennifer Schumacher-Kocik, malaria grants officer for quently and be able to reinforce that message long after UMCOR. Some people believe eating certain fruit causes the [UMCOR] programmers have left,” she continues. Com- malaria or evil spirits bring on sickness. munity health volunteers receive training in how to do Volunteers learn how to build on people’s knowledge, household registration, conduct surveys, teach the causes separating fact from fiction. Then they teach families how of malaria, prevent mosquito breeding by eliminating to prevent malaria and use the bed nets properly. Imagine standing water, correctly use and maintain the insecticide- No Malaria and UMCOR have distributed some 1.2 million treated mosquito nets and prevent infection in other ways. insecticide-treated nets across Africa. The World Health After bed-net distributions, volunteers and community Organization calculates a total 136 million nets distributed leaders follow up with families. overall in 2013. At the same time, UMCOR works with the hundreds of Communities also reinforce malaria prevention and churches, schools, hospitals and clinics operated by The treatment knowledge through skits, plays and music — United Methodist Church in Africa to make sure they have “anything that we can do to get them engaged in how needed malaria diagnostic tests and affordable medicines. they can retain the messaging around malaria,” says All of these components are part of Imagine No Malaria Dunbar. and UMCOR’s comprehensive integrated approach to ma- Today, efforts by Imagine No Malaria and others have laria prevention, which includes net distribution, volunteer halved malaria’s impact from just a few years ago. The training and investment in infrastructure. Key is the train- efforts of UMCOR staff and health volunteers — with the ing of annual conference health boards, which spearhead support of individuals and churches around the world — all anti-malaria activities in the conference. Currently, 13 continue to reach people like Luther across Africa. UMCOR-trained annual conference health boards span 16 -Carrie Madren is a freelance writer based in Great Falls. This article first African countries. This comprehensive, integrated approach appeared in Interpreter magazine’s March/April 2014 edition. makes it possible to achieve and sustain gains in the fight against malaria.

18 VIRGINIA ADVOCATE | OCTOBER 2014 Answering a call to battle malaria By Maria Maxwell faithful husband to see me through that doubt. Sometimes we lack faith to see how God could do am humbled by the op- the impossible through each one of us. We understand portunity to serve as the our limitations all too well. But God is so faithful even I Imagine No Malaria field when we are wavering! He supplies all our needs and coordinator for the Virginia reminds us that our faith isn’t in what we have to offer, it Conference. As I share my is in Christ and what God can offer. He showed me it is not story with you, it is my what I can do, but what Christ can do through me. hope that your heart will And that friends is why we can have hope! be stirred to consider how you can be in service to Imagine No Malaria is an organization of HOPE. It is an Christ through Imagine No effort that I am so thankful to be a part of and invite you Malaria. to share in that HOPE with me. We have an opportunity to When I first heard put our faith into action and join others of our faith in an about the opportunity to extraordinary effort to end preventable deaths caused by serve with the initiative, malaria in Africa. For some children, help arrived too late, I had butterflies in my stomach. I was so excited. It was like Christmas morning, and I was 8 years old again! I had We can help children see their a strong urge to truly consider what this might look like in the scheme of my family and my current job as a preschool next birthday and prove to teacher. After much prayer and discussion with my husband and kids, we decided that I should apply for the job. the world that “where you live When I shared with my kids that the Rev. Glenn Rowley had called and offered the position to me, they both said it should not dictate whether you was the happiest they had ever seen me! The bottom line is that I love kids and would do any- live or die.” (Bono) thing for them to succeed. I am passionate about children learning about Jesus and his love for them. I want them to have opportunities beyond what some of their circumstanc- but that does not have to be the reality for other children. es may dictate. We are invited to be a part of ending a disease that claims In June, it began to be a reality for me that the posi- the life of a child every 60 seconds and offering hope to tion to serve as a field coordinator for Imagine No Malaria literally thousands of children and their parents. would be my opportunity to effect change for children not This year the Virginia Conference is set to save 100,000+ just here in my immediate influence but also for children lives. Our challenge is to live into the “+”. (How fitting that an ocean away. God had stirred my heart for a cause much Bishop Cho was our “+”!) Let’s do our part in the Imagine No greater than I could have ever imagined. Malaria Initiative and help the church reach its goal. We are Following a call requires some measure of faith. He- 85 percent there! We can make a difference in our global brews 11:1, says faith is being sure of what we hope for. future. We can help children see their next birthday and It is being certain of what we do not see. Sometimes we prove to the world that where you live should not dictate have those moments where we question our ability, or how whether you live or die we felt God leading us, or if somehow we misinterpreted I can’t wait to see what God does through our confer- the call. I began to have those feelings of self-doubt and ence. I have been inspired by what churches are doing anxiety while training in Nashville with the INM team. I was already. From a pastor sitting on the top of her church, to challenged by the sheer volume of money that would need children’s lemonade stands, to youth sleep outs, to com- to be raised to accomplish this task of saving so many lives. munity festivals…. churches and individuals are stepping I was burdened by the fact that unless I was successful in out in faith to answer a call to save lives. A call that will helping spread the word, thousands of children would never bring hope to thousands! see their next birthday. My faith was deeply lacking. I had -Maria Maxwell is the conference’s Imagine No Malaria field coordinator. to dig deep into my faith and rely on praying friends and a Her husband, Mike, is the pastor of New Life UMC in Midlothian.

VIRGINIA ADVOCATE | OCTOBER 2014 19 during the rainy season, and their greatest fear was that Imagining and their children would contract the disease. Because of their small bodies, malaria could become life-threatening within connecting hours if undiagnosed or if they did not have the treatment readily available. It is harder to imagine NO malaria because it is such a By Glenn Rowley pernicious and adaptive disease. There have been many treatments developed over the years and, as those medi- It’s not hard for me to imagine cations were utilized more and more, the mosquitos have malaria because I’ve had it! adapted and become resistant to the treatment. But, the global health community continues to fight to find new n two occasions I have endured the debilitating fe- ways of not just developing anti-malarial drugs but also ver and head and body aches brought on by contact addressing the root cause of the spread of malaria which is Owith a mosquito carrying malaria. It is not pleasant poverty. and it took me at least three weeks to resume my daily When you do not understand the cause of the disease activity without fatigue and headaches. But, because I had (the bite of an anopheles mosquito), your community access to treatment within hours of diagnosis, my life was does not have resources to reduce the breeding grounds never in danger. of the mosquitos (standing water); you don’t have money For many of our friends during our years of mission to purchase screens for your house or bed nets as barriers service in Africa, malaria was a routine part of their lives to the mosquitos; or you have not received health education to recognize the early symptoms of malaria, especially in children before it is too late for traditional treatment. Any or all of these reasons and others exist in malaria regions where people want to protect their children and themselves from this disease, but their poverty prevents them from knowing or having what will keep malaria from taking life. Imagine No Malaria is more than a compassionate initiative of our annual conference this year. It is a way for us to connect with our sisters and brothers in sub-Saharan Af- rica in a tangible way that saves lives – more than 100,000 to be exact. Already, children, youths, young adults, campus ministries, Sunday school classes, and a myriad other faith communities are planning, mobilizing and living into the challenge of Every Life Save A Life! But don’t imagine no malaria if you feel it is one more plea for money. Don’t imagine no malaria if it is only because the Bishop or your district superintendent or your pastor want you to do it. Accept the challenge of Imagine No Malaria because five children died while you were reading this article. Paul shares in 2nd Corinthians 4:16: “So we’re not giving up. How could we! Even though on the outside it often looks like things are falling apart on us, on the inside, where God is making new life, not a day goes by without his unfolding grace” [The Message]. Let’s imagine no malaria, saving lives, and personally as an expression of our discipleship participate in God’s unfolding grace! -The Rev. Glenn Rowley is the conference director of Justice and Missional Excellence.

20 VIRGINIA ADVOCATE | OCTOBER 2014 Faith on the Roof: Virginia pastor finds unique way to raise funds for Imagine No Malaria

By Neill Caldwell munion ‘curbside.’” “Faith was a trooper, though, until the end,” said Maria Maxwell, Virginia Conference field coordinator for Imagine No Malaria. “She offered her Sunday message from the rooftop and I believe inspired a community in the process. Faith is a blessing beyond measure! God’s calling on her to support Imagine No Malaria not only encouraged her faith, but the faith of those she serves and ministers to on a daily basis. Thank you seems so small for the effort and excitement they all poured into this awesome cause for the sake of many in Sub-Saharan Africa.” “Brosville UMC and Faith’s husband’s churches, Wesley Cha- pel and Rock Springs, could not have been more welcoming to the conference staff and families that attended the dinner held Saturday night in honor of the event,” Maxwell added. BROSVILLE, Va. - Through storms The truck and traffic sounds from nearby Highway 58 kept and wet and dark of night, the Rev. Faith Weedling kept her Weedling awake during the nights, but she continued to post promise to spend one hour on the church roof for every $100 on Facebook: “Sounds from the Brosville UMC roof: 2:30 a.m. - her church raised for Imagine No Malaria. She expected to be hoot owl; 3:30 a.m. - dogs barking; 4:30 a.m. - rooster crowing.” there “a few” hours. … “What do you do at 3:15 when you’re on a roof and wide Only “a few” became 38, thanks to the generosity of her awake? - pray, of course! … Prayed for many drivers who went church folks at Brosville UMC and those at the two-point up and down 58 during the night. Tonight I may rethink the charge that her husband, the Rev. Steve Weedling, pastors. ear plug suggestion.” The churches raised $3,825 for Imagine No Malaria, The United The whole thing was a big event for this small Pittsylvania Methodist Church’s effort to eliminate the disease that kills a County community located between Martinsville and Danville, person every minute around the world. just above the Virginia-North Carolina state line. And the “roof” became a sturdy railed platform reached “These three churches have really rallied around her,” said by a long staircase/ladder, with a backyard recliner, tent and Pastor Steve Weedling. “It’s lit a fire under them.” all the supplies she needed. Still, when the lightning started “There’s also crackling on Saturday evening, Weedling considered the bet- been a lot of ter part of valor and came inside for a time, joining the big publicity around church-wide supper that had also moved inside to the church the commu- fellowship hall because of the weather. nity,” added Weedling had to start her stunt at 8:30 p.m. on Friday in Faith Weedling. order to be able to finish at noon on Sunday, or the close of “We’ve had the weekly worship service, which she conducted from her people who rooftop perch. only occasion- By the time Sunday morning worship was held it was ally visited our bright and sunny, and a crowd filled the chairs set out across church who the lawn and parking lot. Weedling preached her weekly ser- have been mon from her rooftop perch, and Danville District Superinten- really involved dent the Rev. Janine Howard led the Great Thanksgiving over in this. In fact Holy Communion. they’ve said ‘I “One man was able to attend for the first time in quite don’t do church, but would be glad a while because (worship) was outdoors,” said Howard. “His to be involved in stuff like this.’” wife brought him and they parked the car close enough to the “The focus has changed from ‘we can’t do that’ to ‘let’s do action to allow participation in everything. We took him com- (Continued on page 33: “Faith”)

VIRGINIA ADVOCATE | OCTOBER 2014 21 We are making a difference. Today a child dies every 60 seconds from malaria; just a short time ago, it was every 30 seconds. The clock is slowing down. The number of deaths per year has dropped from 1 million to less than 600,000.

Malaria is a disease of poverty. It severely affects those who cannot afford treatment or have limited access to health care, leading to a detrimental effect on attendance at workplaces and schools. Malaria is a parasite that is transmitted to humans through the bite of the female anopheles mosquito, which feeds at night. The parasite enters the bloodstream, multiplies in the liver and returns to the bloodstream, attacking red blood cells. Early symptoms of malaria are fever, chills, headache and nausea. Left untreated, malaria causes convulsion, coma, organ failure and death.

Social holiness has always been a hallmark of who we are as United Imagine No Malaria is an effort of the people of The Methodists. John Wesley encouraged United Methodist Church to raise $75 million to eliminate death and suffering from malaria in Africa by 2015. This his followers to live like Jesus — to is a comprehensive approach to beating malaria through reach out to those on the fringes prevention, education, communication and treatment. of society, heal them and send them We will engage the passion of 11.5 million United back into their community for a Methodists worldwide to empower an entire continent to achieve a sustainable victory over malaria. greater good.

22 VIRGINIA ADVOCATE | OCTOBER 2014 The Virginia Conference wants to save 100,000+ lives in the next year. Everyone can help. Every Life Can Save a Life. Global health is a major focus for The United Methodist Church, which has more than 11.5 million members internationally and is in mission in more than 125 countries. For more than 160 years the denomination has been a key player in the fight against While malaria has largely been Insecticide-treated mosquito nets malaria, operating hospitals, clinics eradicated in the U.S., between 350 are a simple, cost-effective way to and mission centers across Africa. million and 500 million people are still prevent malaria, but nets are only part Social holiness has always been infected each year, mostly in Africa. of the solution. To overcome malaria, a hallmark of who we are as United we must continue to support the most Methodists. John Wesley encouraged effective prevention methods, while his followers to live like Jesus – to also improving education about the reach out to those on the fringes of disease, establishing community- society, heal them and send them based malaria-control programs, back into their community for a conducting communications outreach greater good. through radio, and revitalizing hospitals and clinics to improve treatment across the African continent. Our Make checks payable to: efforts are more effective and sustain- “Virginia Conference” able when we work collaboratively and put “Imagine No Malaria” in the with the international community. memo line. Imagine No Malaria is working closely Because of a generous grant that covers all Malaria is both preventable and with our partners to leverage and administrative costs, 100% of all donations go to treatable. There is currently a plan to maximize available resources toward the work of Imagine No Malaria. eliminate malaria in our lifetime. a sustainable solution. Send to: VAUMC P.O. Box 5605 Glen Allen, VA 23058

Reference our website and Facebook page: www.vaumc.org/imaginenomalaria www.facebook.com/EveryLifeSaveALife

Contact: Maria Maxwell Virginia Conference Field Coordinator 804-521-1160 [email protected]

VIRGINIA ADVOCATE | OCTOBER 2014 23 Religious news from around the NATION & WORLD By Sam Hodges scape,” Weems said. conference efforts. Average age The Lewis Center has “The United Methodist he graying of The long tracked United Meth- Church is more aware and of United United Methodist odist clergy age trends, us- is addressing (the young TChurch’s clergy ranks ing United Methodist Board clergy shortage) in ways Methodist continues, with the median of Pension and Health that I don’t see happening age of active elders reach- Benefits statistics, and in other mainline churches, pastors ing an all-time high of 56, including both ordained although every mainline the Lewis Center for Church elders and deacons and church has the same pat- climbs to 56 Leadership found in its those on the elder or terns,” Weems said. annual study of clergy age deacon track. The new study notes trends. A 2006 Lewis Center that the number of young The just-released re- reported noted that from United Methodist elders port also shows that active 1985 to 2005 the percent- reached a historic low in elders between ages 55 age of elders under age 35 2005 and has climbed by and 72 constitute a record dropped from about 15 to nearly 100, or about 12 high 55 percent of the under 5 percent. percent, since then. The active elders pool, while Weems said the factors overall numbers dipped the share of active middle- for such a dramatic drop slightly this year, but aged elders (ages 35 to 54) were several, including the the percentage actually continues to drop. length and cost of semi- increased, due to an overall The percentage of nary education, the length smaller pool of elders. young clergy is up, albeit of the ordination process, The pool of deacons is modestly. Certain confer- and the decline of church- much smaller still, but the ences and jurisdictions going overall, which has percentage of under-35 The Rev. Lovett Weems Jr., Lewis Center director. have seen good gains in caused fewer young people deacons remained at 9 that area, said the Rev. to grow up considering a percent. Lovett Weems Jr., Lewis Christian vocation. Women make up 39 Center director. But he said the denomi- percent of young clergy, The 2014 study con- nation understands that its and over three-quarters of firms that The United future is tied to its ability young deacons are female, Methodist Church is to cultivate young leaders the study found. increasingly dependent on and has been on the case, -Sam Hodges is a reporter for licensed local pastors. as evidenced by the Young United Methodist News Service. “It’s a changing land- Clergy Initiative and various

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24 VIRGINIA ADVOCATE | OCTOBER 2014 Religious news from around the NATION & WORLD UMCOR responds with thoughtful urgency to Ebola outbreak died, and the health he United Method- When medical supplies more than just Ebola.” The professionals who are ist General Board of are not readily available, Advance projects there and caring for people who TGlobal Ministries is UMCOR is working with in Liberia need continued have Ebola. continuing to be present trusted suppliers to provide support so that when the v and respond to the needs an inventory list to the crisis passes, the schools, Give to UMCOR In- in West Africa as health health boards. The health ministries and other health ternational Disaster officials try to contain the boards indicate what programs will have the Response, Advance Ebola outbreak that has they need and how much funding to resume. #982450, so that UMCOR infected more than 3,065 they need. Because it can The Ebola crisis is espe- can continue to partner people. take months to ship by cially heart-wrenching for with United Methodist The Rev. Denise Honey- sea, UMCOR is shipping by United Methodists be- health boards and other cutt, who leads the United air, though Paganini says cause of the long-standing organizations working Methodist Committee on the space is increasingly presence of The United to respond to this and Relief (UMCOR), has been in limited and expensive as Methodist Church in Liberia other disasters. regular contact with Bishop the Ebola outbreak con- and Sierra Leone. Churches v Raise awareness about John Yambasu of Sierra Le- tinues. “We want to make in the United States have Ebola and about the one and Bishop John Innis every shipment count strong partnerships with importance, generally, of Liberia. and are very intentional churches in West Africa. of good healthcare “We want them to about sending high-quality, The missionaries are systems and hygiene know that UMCOR is with needed supplies in the cor- deeply thankful to their practices. them and responding with rect quantities,” he said. partners throughout the -United Methodist urgency to whatever the Bishops Innis and United Methodist connec- Committee on Relief needs are, to get them Yambasu are also trying tion who continue to offer through this crisis,” she to streamline the process prayers and support to said. of requesting supplies UMCOR’s response to the UMCOR has sent through UMCOR. In a letter Ebola crisis. United Meth- $383,000 in grants to Sierra signed by them and Hon- odist churches that want to Leone and Liberia. Funds eycutt, they asked donors respond to the Ebola crisis are supporting tents and to please donate through in West Africa are encour- construction of isolation the International Disaster aged to: units, personal protective Response Advance instead v Pray for the people who Ebola-Liberian nurse is being sprayed equipment, training for of shipping supplies with disinfectant after preparing live under the fear of several bodies of victims of Ebola for health staff, public mes- directly. They wrote, “This this disease, the fami- saging about Ebola, and approach helps ensure the burial on August 1, 2014. lies of those who have (Ahmed Jallanzo EPA safe handling of deceased appropriateness, timeliness bodies. and quality of materials Grants also are provid- and avoids inclusion ing much-needed health- in shipments of used, care supplies. Whenever damaged, out-of-date or possible, funds are being otherwise inappropriate sent to United Methodist items.” This is consistent health boards to purchase with UMCOR’s standards supplies locally. UMCOR ex- and helps relieve pressure ecutive, Francesco Paganini, in seaports and airports. says this is the most effi- Kip and Nancy cient way to get the United Robinson, Virginia mission- Methodist health boards aries who serve in Sierra exactly what is needed as Leone, want people to soon as possible. know that, “Sierra Leone is

VIRGINIA ADVOCATE | OCTOBER 2014 25 Religious news from around the NATION & WORLD “In a very practical way, children from Central Groups ask bishops to speak out the bishops are the most America crossing into visible manifestation of The the United States, which By Heather Hahn United Methodist Church the letter says “has in the years between our started to open our eyes wo United Methodist quadrennial General Confer- to the violence, poverty groups — coming from ences,” said the Rev. Frank and injustice that lead Tdifferent theological Wulf, the convener of the to the creation of un- perspectives — are urging progressive Western Meth- healthy and unsustain- the Council of Bishops to odist Justice Movement and able patterns of global take the lead and speak its coordinating team. migration” out on issues facing the “This is one reason why v The violence in Gaza church and wider world. major social movements and the deaths of Those issues include the find it so important for thousands of Palestinian police shooting in Fergu- bishops to be present civilians son, the root causes of when they are making immigration, violence in statements of concern to The Council of Bishops Gaza and church divisions the nation or the world,” will next meet Nov. 1-7 on human sexuality. Wulf said. in Oklahoma City, but the The Western Method- The Rev. Rob Renfroe, Western Methodist Justice ist Justice Movement and president of the conser- Movement is asking the Good News each released vative Good News group, body to speak out before a statement in Septem- echoed that statement. then. ber encouraging bishops’ “Regardless of one’s “The people for whom action. Both are advocacy theological perspective, you have been elected to groups that are not official most United Methodists provide temporal and spiri- United Methodist bodies. want our bishops to lead tual oversight need to hear What the different state- through their actions and from you,” the letter said. ments show, say leaders of their teaching,” he said. “They need to know that A Border Patrol agent stands on a both groups, is the value “Their voice should in- their bishops are engaged ranch fence line with children taken United Methodists place in struct and inspire us to be with the critical issues into custody in South Texas brush of justice and injustice, country north of Laredo, Texas. the guidance bishops can God’s faithful instruments www.voanews.com provide. of grace and truth in the violence and peace, wealth world.” and poverty that are roiling In an open letter to the U.S. and the world.” the Council of Bishops Good News describes it- released on Sept. 5, the self as a conservative-evan- Western Methodist Justice gelical movement that has Movement asks the council been working for renewal to address three crises. and reform in The United Methodist Church for nearly v The shooting of Michael 50 years. Brown by police in In an e-mail titled “UMC Ferguson, Mo., and what Bishops Must Hear from the letter called the Laity and Pastors,” Good movement to say “‘No News on Sept. 3 urged more!’ to the criminal- people on its mailing list to ization of U.S. minority advocate for the Method- communities and to ist Crossroads statement. the militarization of U.S. So far, at least 3,300 United police forces Methodists have endorsed v The recent surge of the statement, which says

26 VIRGINIA ADVOCATE | OCTOBER 2014 Religious news from around the NATION & WORLD bishops must enforce and publicly support church law Judicial Council plans restrictions against same- sex marriage if the denomi- hearing for Schaefer appeal nation is to hold together. “Regarding the issue of By Linda Bloom Several changes have human sexuality, I would occurred recently in Judicial love to see our bishops he United Methodist Council membership. Coun- explain, defend and pro- Church’s top court cil vice president Angela mote our United Methodist will hear an appeal Brown, who was elected position that sex is to be T thismonth of a decision and served as a layperson reserved for heterosexual to reinstate a pastor who but was commissioned as marriage,” Renfroe said. had lost his ministerial clergy at the 2014 Califor- The Book of Discipline credentials after perform- nia-Nevada Annual Confer- tasks bishops to be leaders, ing a same-sex marriage ence, has resigned. She is teachers, exemplars and ceremony for his son. succeeded by Sandy Lutz prophetic voices, among The appeal involving of Canton, Ohio, the first lay other roles. The United the Rev. Frank Schaefer, alternate. Methodist Church’s consti- which provoked national Kurt Glassco, another tution, part of the Disci- media attention, is one of lay alternate, has been pline, requires that the 21 docket items under con- appointed as a local pastor Council of Bishops plans sideration when the United in the Oklahoma Annual “for the general oversight Methodist Judicial Council Conference, thus changing and promotion of the tem- meets Oct. 22-25 at the his category to clergy and poral and spiritual interests Marriott Courtyard Down- removing him from Council. of the entire Church.” town in Memphis, Tenn. Randall Miller of Oakland, Bishop Warner Brown Jr., After a hearing in June, California, is the new first of the California-Nevada the denomination’s North- lay alternate. Conference, is the current eastern Jurisdictional Com- Two clergy alter- president of the Council of mittee on Appeals restored nate positions also have Bishops. He responded by Schaefer’s credentials changed. The Rev. Susan saying that the council has and ordered the Eastern Henry-Crowe resigned after never functioned in a man- Pennsylvania Conference to becoming the top execu- ner that allows members compensate Schaefer for tive of the United Method- The Rev. Frank Schaefer (right) to respond weekly to the all lost salary and benefits ist Board of Church and discusses his beliefs about the need for inclusiveness in the United Meth- many situations that arise dating from Dec. 19, 2013. Society and the Rev. Jane around the globe. odist Church at his home in Lebanon, The Rev. Christo- Tews is now deceased. Pa. He is flanked by his wife Brigitte “The council serves as a pher Fisher, who served as -Linda Bloom is a United (left) and their daughter Debbie. A worldwide church repre- counsel for the church, has Methodist News Service reporter. UMNS photo by Mike DuBose. senting 12 million United appealed that decision to Methodists on four conti- the Judicial Council. The nents,” Brown said. “We are appeal contends the deci- committed to our role of sion was at odds with the being prophetic voices for 2012 Book of Discipline and justice in a suffering and previous Judicial Council conflicted world, proclaim- rulings. ing the gospel, and alleviat- At Fisher’s request, the ing human suffering.” Judicial Council has granted -Heather Hahn is a reporter for an oral hearing on the United Methodist News Service. matter on Wednesday, Oct. 22.

VIRGINIA ADVOCATE | OCTOBER 2014 27 EQUIPPING FOR MINISTRY and optimistic about the part of the institutional Reaching the Millennial future.” They are the most life of many churches are diverse and optimistic major turnoffs for this Generation By Asa J. Lee generation of any currently age group. Millennials are alive in the United States, overwhelmingly resistant to hurches must become but also the most distrust- institutional maintenance more innovative and ful of institutional struc- and seek active, relevant Cdiverse on a variety of tures in our society. ministry in the world for fronts, but less doctrinaire Politically and Jesus Christ. They are look- and institutionally rigid, if religiously disaffiliated ing for churches that offer they want to reach Millen- dynamic ministries that are nials. This is one conclu- Millennials have the transparent in their sense sion of recently released highest levels of political of purpose. and religious disaffiliation research from the Pew Re- Digitally connected search Center that surveyed of any generation Pew the Millennial Generation has studied. Half describe Millennials are “digital in adulthood. Pew’s new themselves as political in- natives” at the leading report, “Millennials in dependents, although they edge of the digital revolu- Adulthood: Detached from tend to have liberal views, tion. The internet, mobile Institutions, Networked and about three-in-ten technology and social with Friends,” reveals some say they are not affiliated media define their social significant changes in with any religion. Not only affinity groups and shape generational assumptions are they less likely to be their self-identities. Argu- about culture, politics and religiously affiliated; they ably these digital connects religion among adults born are also less likely to say have supplanted the insti- after 1980. The study is one they believe in God. A solid tutional connections that of the first to identify how majority still do — 86 per- defined earlier generations. this generational cohort cent. But only 58 percent This generation expects will impact our society and say they are “absolutely the church not only to have our economy as they enter certain” that God exists, a a robust digital presence, adulthood. lower share than among but also to embrace the Millennials are, ac- older adults relational potential of elec- cording to the research, Diverse tronic communication. “unattached to organized Millennials are now at Millennials are the most the forefront of the chang- politics and religion, linked racially diverse generation by social media, burdened es driving our society. To be in American history. Un- relevant to this age group, by debt, distrustful of like previous generations, people, in no rush to marry, churches must envision they are not congregat- a new way of operating ing in racially or politically and engaging — drastically segregated groups. They reordering some priorities have moved away from the and focusing intentionally traditional ways of catego- on issues of diversity, insti- rizing people, ideas and tutionalism and innovation. beliefs — categories such as Congregational leaders and race, ethnicity, political par- practitioners should be ties and religious affiliation. ready to adapt to “serve Skeptical about this present age.” institutions -Asa J. Lee is assistant director for programs for the Lewis Center This research suggests for Church Leadership at Wesley that traditional systems Theological Seminary. of power that are often

28 VIRGINIA ADVOCATE | OCTOBER 2014 Celebrating 80 years of service

for retired United Methodist pastors and their spouses in the years to come. our church can make to prepare a potluck to read scripture, a big difference in dish, but they want to usher, or serve as a The Retired Clergy Housing Ythe life of a college participate in church communion steward. Corporation of the Virginia student. Here are some fun activities. Create “care packages” Conference maintains a program and easy ways to welcome Make a personal phone for students before to provide retirement homes college students who visit call to a student who finals week. Cookies, for eligible United Methodist pastors who need them. your congregation. They’ll attends your church on small toys, pens, sticky This program has been made appreciate your efforts Sunday morning, and notes, stuffed animals, and your church will be possible by the gift of homes and answer any questions and even a Slinky funds willed to the Corporation enriched by their participa- they may have about would be great gifts tion. for this purpose. Other your congregation. for stressed out stu- contributions come through the Make a point to meet dents. Enclose a note Covenant of Gratitude whose and speak to college Take a student for coffee during the week wishing them well on members contribute $1.00 a students when they year for each person ordained following their visit at their exams. come to church. a commissioned probationer at

Feeling welcomed is church. Adopt a student for a the Virginia Annual Conference. the No. 1 concern of Offer to drive students year, inviting them to If you would like to consider students who attend a to worship. meals and calling to be willing your home to the Retired sure they are all right. Clergy Housing Corporation of new church. Send birthday cards, the Virginia Conference or if you Invite students to sit Include students in a bookmark, or words would like to share through the with you during wor- of encouragement your family’s holiday activities. Thanksgiv- Covenant of Gratitude, please ship so they don’t sit throughout the year. mail in the coupon below with ing, Christmas and alone. Students love mail. your name and address. Easter are hard times

Treat a student to Include college stu- to be far away from lunch after worship. dents on your Church home. c/o Thomas L. Coffman, Whether it be at home Newsletter mailing list. President or a local restaurant, Design a flier describ- 4837 Village Lake Dr., Offer Sunday school Richmond, VA 23234 students will appreci- ing your local church classes on topics of in- ate an invitation to and post it in the Stu- terest to young adults. talk and eat a meal dent Union on campus. Phone: (804) 271-7219; Fax: (804) 271-4558 E-mail: [email protected] that was not prepared Organize a fellowship Be sure to include wor- Please send me information on: at the dining hall. activity for college ship times and a map ■ students. to your church. The Covenant of Gratitude. Bring extra food for ■ Including the Retired Clergy after-church potlucks Present a plant to ev- -Laurie Day, Willamette University, Housing Corporation in my will. and invite the stu- ery new student who and Janet Cromwell, Wesley Foun- Name______attends worship. dation Director at the University dents to stay for lunch. of Oregon Address______Most students do not Include students in . City______have kitchen facilities worship, inviting them State ______Zip______

VIRGINIA ADVOCATE | OCTOBER 2014 29 Devotions from International Lesson Series LIVING THE WORD Oct. 5, 2014 Oct. 12, 2014 Rejoice always God answers when we call Habakkuk 2:1-5; 3: 17-19 Job 19; Psalm 57 any of us have experienced times in our ob was humiliated and tormented 10 times, lives where we found it extremely dif- and he was insulted and disgraced. One of Mficult to rejoice in the Lord. We are to be Jour sons committed a wrong to society a thankful people regardless of what is happening couple of years ago when he became hooked to us or what news we have just received. How on drugs from the painkillers he was taking was I to be a thankful person that horrible day while serving in the Coast Guard. After he got Dan Dietze serves as of 9-11? As I watched with horror as the events out of the service it led to many bad things for the Fredericksburg unfolded, my co-workers and I tried to find him. He became terribly addicted and he did District Lay leader, a way home, since we were in California. We something which caused front page news in conference prayer ad- lost five co-workers on those flights. How can I our local newspaper. One of my dearest friends vocate for the United Methodist Men, has rejoice in the Lord? I remember saying as a boy decided not to call to check on me because he been newly appointed and heard this said by many people back home thought I would be too embarrassed. as one of the Board in Nebraska, “If it weren’t for bad luck, I wouldn’t Job was abandoned by everyone. When of Laity Chaplains, have any at all!” What a pessimistic view! These this happened, I hurt very much and I felt and will serve as are people that are starting to lose hope for the abandoned. Some people began to treat us the Southeastern Jurisdictional Prayer future or have lost hope. Those who are strong differently. I can tell you from working in the Advocate for the in the Lord endure! court system many people treat you differently United Methodist Men Habakkuk wrestles with this question of why because of what one of your family has done. beginning in 2015. does the Lord permit the righteous to suffer My wife and I did not hide it from our friends, He is a clergy spouse, while the wicked continue to prosper? Our good or our church family; we told others and grew married to Rev. Gail Dietze, a licensed works don’t usually have immediate results. closer as a group and closer to God from doing local pastor currently Even though we continue to face difficulties that. These were the people who showed up in serving at Andrew for our beliefs, better times will come – even support of our son and for us as we attended all Chapel in Stafford though many times this will not be in our the court hearings, trials and sentencing. When County, where Dan lifetimes. I have learned that the results occur things go terribly wrong you need those angels, attends. They have five children and 10 in God’s time and we are only the planters of close spiritual friends to be angels for you to grandchildren. Dietz seeds. We continue to plant even though the keep you going through those tough times. was born Catholic, harsh sun continues to kill out the crop. You also need to be strong spiritually and raised Lutheran and I think of the many “Hang in There” post- have a prayerful life. We had to keep some married Methodist! He ers of the 1970s. The two I remember most are of our own family from turning against their received his Bachelor’s Degree at the Univer- the cat hanging on to a bar with its two paws, brother. So it is with us and God. We prayed for sity of Nebraska and is or another one which read “If life has you up the miracle and it didn’t happen on this occa- a veteran who served a tree, how about a hug?” It had a picture of a sion. During these difficult times in life, we often as a Navy officer for dog laying its head on a cat. We will experience blame God or we take it out on God, especially 22 years. He retired in God’s joy when we patiently await Gods prom- when the outcomes don’t happen the way we 1995 and began and continues to work as ises/hugs! expect or want. a support contractor I also remember the words of the song writ- When we call upon God through prayer, God for Sabre Systems ten by Rueben Morgan, the chorus keeps going will always listen and God will answer. You may for the U.S. Navy in through my head “My redeemer lives, my re- not think God answers but that, in itself, may Washington, D.C. He deemer lives, my redeemer lives, my redeemer be the answer. But in all things, especially these received a Master’s Degree in Business lives!” Let’s get through the tough times and join bad times, keep your relationship and prayer life Administration from our redeemer and live forever. Amen! strong with the Lord! the Naval Postgradu- ate School in Business Administration and a Master’s Degree in Finance from Aquinas College in Michigan.

30 VIRGINIA ADVOCATE | OCTOBER 2014 hands and feet of Christ? We do all things and that no purpose of Oct.19, 2014 can’t sit around and sulk and yours can be thwarted.” This story is Hope overcomes the darkness feel sorry for ourselves. We a story of assurance to me that God Job 24:1, 9-12, 19-25 have to get involved beyond our will act in my best interest when I don’t know about your house, but prayer life and be the catalyst to serve and have a prayerful relation- things are far from perfect in my make things happen. ship with God. We need to help Ihouse. Job lost everything and his Yes, our redeemer lives! others find hope in God! We need to friends blamed it on him. Job looks get out and tell our story to grow and at all of these innocent victims who make disciples! have been wounded, tortured or Oct. 26, 2014 Hope in God satisfies Psalm 55:16, says “I call upon God killed during his period of suffering Job 42:1-10 and the Lord will save me.” Let’s call and states in Chapter 24, verse 12: on God all the time, pray for others “yet God pays no attention to their ow is your prayer life? What and get out and tell our story to oth- prayer.” Job actually complains to God kind of relationship do you ers. Let’s add to our prayer life and in his prayer life! He accuses God of Hhave with God? Job said in spend more time in prayer, so we can protecting the wicked. The important verse 5: ”Now my eyes see you.” How have that strong loving relationship point to me is Job keeps his relation- do you see Christ? Do you see God with our Father. Our redeemer lives! ship (prayer life) with God going. He through your spouse, friends, pets, Amen! kept talking to God. We know God pastor, birds of the air and fish of the wants a relationship with us, even sea, or through acts of nature? though our prayers are sometimes Jobs friends proved to be no not answered quite like we want. friends at all. I remember the quote We can get discouraged and from my younger days, “with friends depressed from all the evil around like these, who needs enemies?” Job us. When you are depressed during prayed for his friends and renewed difficult times even reading the Bible them in God’s eyes. Our friends may ProjectProject LoansLoans is not the same. I know on a few support us, or our friends may hurt us For Churches difficult occasions for me in my life unknowingly or deliberately. There is the Bible no longer jumped out in no reason for us not to pray for them. color but was dark and gloomy. You Through Job’s prayers and his rela- generally need the help of friends, tionship with God, Job grew closer to family, Bible study and prayer to get God and his friends were also growing you through dark times. Call out to in God’s grace. God through prayer and God will Job endured suffering but through rescue you. My prayer life and church prayer and grace, his life had a posi- life has grown stronger during these tive turnaround and became much dark times. How is your prayer life better for him and his friends that he (no matter what is happening in your had prayed for. Now Job sees God and Unsecured & Up to $50,000 life)? Share your story like Job with all the beauty around him. Do you God and God’s angels around you. see beauty and pray for the friends Rates As Low As

It will strengthen you and give you around you? The whispers of the wind hope. upon one’s face can be God speaking 4.00% APR* When we call upon God through to us. We need to listen to the wind prayer, God will save us but maybe and the stillness of the air. Be quiet not in our planned way. But in all and listen. A relationship isn’t about things, especially these bad times, always talking. It’s about giving the keep your relationship and prayer life other person a chance to talk to you strong with the Lord. while you listen. It satisfies the soul when we have a growing relationship Now do we just sit back and www.vumcu.org watch people be oppressed? Why not with God. We can never grow too 866-657-0004 change the world! Let’s get out there close. *Credit restrictions apply and rates are and help the oppressed and be the Job 42:2 says: “I know that you can subject to change. Federally insured by NCUA

VIRGINIA ADVOCATE | OCTOBER 2014 31 CLERGY & DIACONAL DEATHS Raleigh Court UMC, Roanoke District. ADOPTIONS His funeral was held at Jamieson Me- John S. morial UMC in Clarksville. The Rev. Dr. Justin Allen, Dean of Davenport, Spiritual Life at Shenandoah Univer- retired provisional Robert Frank sity, and his wife, Alethea, recently clergy mem- Newcomb, 76, adopted Carter Jack Allen from China. ber, died Aug. a retired lo- Carter turned 2 on July 29. 22, 2014. He is cal pastor, died survived by his July 17, 2014, A PILGRIMAGE TO ITALY wife, Martha; they in Manassas. A were active at native of Okla- October 13-24, 2015 Aldersgate UMC. Davenport began his homa, Newcomb Cost: $4149 from Philadelphia ministerial career in 1988 at Floyd Par- worked for the This is a 10-day trip to one of Europe’s ish. He went on to serve Havens Cha- Boy Scouts of America for more than most beautiful countries. Includes pel, Kenbridge and East Nottoway. He 30 years until retirement, then turned Rome, the Vatican, St. Peter’s, the retired in 1995. During his retirement, to his other love, The United Method- Catacombs, Pompeii, Sorrento, Capri, Assisi, San Gimignano, Florence, he served Boykins and Community in ist Church, where he worked as a local Verona, and Venice. the former Portsmouth District. pastor. Newcomb is survived by his wife, Sandra. For more information and a Guy B. brochure, contact Hamilton Sr., Clyde Cecil Lyle Jr., 85, of Roanoke, Rev. Cynthia Corley, retired local pas- died Sept. 2, 2014. His son, Rev. 804 526-6234 or [email protected]. tor, died Aug. 27, Michael Lyle, is pastor of Washington 2014. He was a Street UMC, Alexandria District. former Marine who felt God’s Ruth Frances Searle Luther, 86, died call to ministry. Sept. 6, 2014, in Richmond. Ruth was He served as preceded in death by her husband, the pastor of Asbury UMC in Nokesville Rev. Jay E. Luther. (Prince William County) from 1992 to 2007. He retired and moved with his Betty Anne Leach Warrick, 56, of wife Cheryl to Tennessee. Following a Danville, died Sept. 3, 2014. She was funeral at Asbury UMC, he was buried the wife of the Rev. Donald M. War- at Arlington National Cemetery. rick Jr.

The Rev. Luther BIRTHS M. Marks, 88, died Sept. 6, The Rev. Tim Beck and his wife, Jen- 2014. Marks be- nifer, welcomed a new daughter, Ava gan his ministerial Lynn, born Aug. 12, 2014. Beck serves career in the West Kenbridge UMC, Farmville District. Virginia Confer- ence in 1954. He The Rev. Ryan and Lou Oswald transferred to the welcomed a new daughter, Daylie Virginia Conference in 1963 and served Ruth Oswald, who joins siblings Aiden Garrison-Ebenezer, Beech Grove-Oak and Avery. Oswald is an associate at Grove, Stokesland, Mount Olivet in Fishersville UMC. Danville, Whaleyville-Somerton, Beu- lah-St. Paul, Courtland and Clarksville. The Rev. Dave Rochford and his wife, He retired in 1991. He is survived by Lisa, welcome a new son, Alden Isaac, his wife, Jean, and was also the father born Aug. 22, 2014. Rochford is the of the Rev. Milton Marks, pastor of Staunton District Superintendent.

32 VIRGINIA ADVOCATE | OCTOBER 2014

(“Faith on the Roof” continued from page 21) that!’” Steve added. “For example, my two churches have done a Stop Hunger Now meal packing event for two years 11561 Edmonston Rd, Beltsville, MD 20705 in a row by inviting other churches to Are you partner with us. So now it’s become3 col (5 1/2) x 6 interested a thing we do. People ask me aboutSonny Merryman, Inc. when are we going to invite those other in missions? churches.” Lovern Advertising, Inc. Are you interested in missions, but It really was a ‘happening.” Some can’t leave home? Prayerfully consider church and community members came434-384-8431 serving as a ICM Chaplain. with tents to also camp out on the Contact Joe Leake parking lot. 57 S. Main St, Suite, 612 Brosville UMC member Jackie Minter Harrisonburg, Va 22801 540-432-1919 set Weedling’s adventure to music, sung www.icmamerica.org to the tune of “The Camptown Races”: Pastor Faith is on the roof, Praise God, praise God! VIRGINIA’S BUS COMPANY Need some nets, mosquito proof, Praise the Lord all day. Pastor’s on the roof, Safe and pastor’s on the roof. We give our money to buy some nets, Sound! God will do the rest! The cardboard cutout of Bishop For safety’s sake, Young Jin Cho first unveiled at Annual Conference was also on hand. your church needs a bus, not a van “We’ve had fun moving ‘Bishop Cho’ around the district,” said Steve Let us show you how easy it can be for your church to own Weedling. “It’s so lifelike, people forget a safe new bus. Tell us the size bus you’re thinking he’s there and they get surprised. One day (our DS) Janine (Howard) asked me about. (We offer over a dozen different models where the ‘Bishop’ was and I said we and sizes.) We can bring the right bus to were storing him in our den, and we had to keep the door closed because you for key church members to test we were afraid our little dog would drive. We'll quickly give you a price and go in and pee on him. ... And that got excellent terms. We'll even take your some strange looks from the church members who overheard us.” old bus or van as a trade. Did Weedling learn any lessons from this experience? “As tired as I am now, I’d say the lesson is not to come up with these kinds of ideas,” said Weedling. “But it’s been good. We’ve raised a lot of money and hopefully this will lead other pastors on the district to do crazy things to get (800) 533-1006 involved.” -Neill Caldwell is editor of the Advocate. Central Virginia • Hampton Roads • NOVA

VIRGINIA ADVOCATE | OCTOBER 2014 33 FROM THE BISHOP malaria. Her congregation and the church will be energized, and this ini- two congregations served by her hus- tiative will have a great and positive band, responded to this challenge by impact on the life of the church. raising enough money to save more These reasons have made me very than 380 lives. One small congrega- happy to introduce Imagine No Ma- tion in the far western part of our laria. These reasons moved me to do conference raised an amount that will a “happy dance.” Once again, I invite save more than 400 lives. So far, we every church and every church mem- have raised about $120,000 which will ber to join this initiative of saving lives touch 12,000 lives. from malaria. What a great beginning it is! The Virginia Conference has a When I proposed this initiative, I had very proud tradition of strong mis- some wishes and hopes. I wanted sion support. I hope this tradition will this initiative to be a part of our continue during this conference year. I spiritual disciplines. In our tradition, will be deeply grateful if you will visit spiritual discipline has two dimen- the conference website (www.vaumc. sions: acts of piety and acts of mercy. org) and share your stories with other For the past two years, I emphasized brothers and sisters in Christ. acts of piety. Through this initia- Later this month, I will take anoth- tive, I wanted us to have a balanced er group of clergy to Korea. This will spiritual discipline. Imagine No Malaria be the third time for me to lead this is more than a fundraising campaign. pilgrimage. Participants are excited It is a part of our spiritual disciplines. about this trip. During our stay in Ko- Imagine no I strongly encourage you to take part rea (Oct. 15- 23), we will visit various in this initiative in prayer. churches and universities and learn malaria! Another of my hopes was that the importance of mission. We will Imagine No Marilia would be a joyful participate in early-morning prayer May the grace and peace of our movement rather than a burdensome services that will begin at 5 a.m. risen Lord be with you. plan. I am praying that participants every day, and we will experience the will experience the joy of giving and importance of prayer in our mission am back! After 40 days of renewal learn what our Lord meant when he and ministries. We will also have a leave, I came back to my office on said, “It is more blessed to give than chance to learn about the history and ISept. 2. I am deeply grateful for this to receive.” What a great joy it is for culture of Korea. This will be a heavy time of rest and reflection. During my us to take part in saving human lives, schedule and a very long flight. Your leave, Kiok and I took three trips for especially children and expectant prayer for safe travels will be deeply my continuing education or for rest. I mothers! What a great privilege it appreciated. also reviewed the first half of my minis that our prayers and participation It is already October, and our istry and reflected upon the second can make differences in the lives of churches are preparing for their half. I reaffirmed that I could not do people on the other side of the earth! charge conferences. I pray that these my ministry without God’s help and I pray that all participants in this ini- annual gatherings will be a blessing that I would more humbly seek and tiative will experience a joy surpass- to all of you and to the churches. rely upon God’s wisdom and guid- ing human understanding. May the Lord continue to guide us ance. I thank my office staff for cover- When we launched this intiative, I and give us peace. ing everything during my absence. invited every church and every church Since I returned to my office, I member to participate. I also encour- In our Lord, have been hearing many wonderful aged our children, youths and young stories about Imagine No Malaria. One adults to lead these efforts. I believe pastor challenged her congregation that this initiative will provide a great by saying that she would stay on the opportunity for our next generation roof of the church one hour for every to learn and experience the impor- Young Jin Cho $100 raised. One hundred dollars tance of mission. And if our younger translates into 10 lives saved from generations get excited, then the

34 VIRGINIA ADVOCATE | OCTOBER 2014 ONE LAST WORD United Methodist church worker named hometown hero By Christina Dimeo Guseman Upward Sports. It’s tiring but reward- ing, and it’s given me a platform to bring all these great programs into the community.” The other hat Jones wears is her Tweets heard ‘round role as facilities and compliance director for the school. Back in 2010, Jones the conference was one of the folks helping to open the preschool and kindergarten. As Sonja Flye Oliver @SoFlye59 extended care director she oversaw #IfTheShoeFits don’t just wear it, give the afterschool and summer camp thanks for it! #Gratefulness programs. And now, as facilities and #ItsEnough compliance director, she makes sure that the school falls in line with state Patti Money @pattimoney requirements and handles the facili- Charging iPad mini. And kids’ iPad. ties. And my portable battery charger. But Jones brings a little something Rachel Jones and her therapy dog, Molly, visit Zion UMC. #ihavetoomanydevices special to the school – a therapy dog named Molly. Jones and her family slkcalv @slkcalv ouisa County has its very own rescued Molly, a black lab mix, from Nothing like making the nurse say hero. the humane society in Washington, “Wow, would you look at that,” and Zion Crossroads resident D.C. After going through obedience L then having the student intern come Rachel Jones was just named one of training with Erika Proctor’s Green running Allen & Allen’s hometown heroes. Dogs Unleashed in Fluvanna, Jones The law firm accepted nominations followed Proctor’s advice and took Andrew Book @AndrewHBook from across the state for its Home- the necessary steps to certify Molly as I made my moral stand about [Ray] town Heroes Award, which according a therapy dog. Now Molly and Jones Rice by refusing to bid on him in our to the firm’s website seeks to honor work together as a therapy team. fantasy auction...not that anyone “Virginians who are responsible [for] “I take Molly to different nurs- would have noticed :) generating positive change in the ing homes, 4-H groups and to the community or in the lives of others.” school,” said Jones. “She and I teach a Megan Harrison @MeganHarrison23 Jones, who was nominated by her little program to children about safety I wish there was a day of recovery coworker, Donna Bowman, was one around dogs. Things like not pulling between Sunday and Monday of 50 chosen for the honor. their ears, not putting your face in Keeping busy in the community is front of their face, asking permission Ebenezer UMC @EbenezerUMC just part of life for Jones, who works before you pet – all those safe han- Calling all bakers!!! We need your for Zion United Methodist Church dlings – in order to help children not help to make 3000 dozen cookies (do (ZUMC) and Zion Christian Children’s to be bitten by strange dogs.” the math - that’s 36,000 cookies!!) for Center, a 90-student preschool and Jones lives near ZUMC with her Sussex State Prison kindergarten at the church in Zion children – 9-year-old Brayden and Crossroads. 7-year-old Emily – and her husband, Pastor Jason Elmore @PastorJasonE “I kind of wear two hats at Donny, who works with the Virginia I hope Johnny Football can play de- ZUMC,” Jones said. “As the commu- state police in Albemarle, Nelson and fense because the Browns need help! nity programs director I bring in lots of Greene counties. programs to the church – things like -This article first appeared in the Louisa Life Patti Money @pattimoney Cub Scouts, Girl Scouts, 4-H, karate, newspaper. The photo is by Kelly Allison. Hi from Duke Chapel! Feeling like a art classes, women’s self-defense and legit UMC pastor now!

VIRGINIA ADVOCATE | OCTOBER 2014 35 “If you think you are too small to make a difference, try spending the night with a mosquito.”

-African Proverb