$2 September 2010

Season of Kingdomtide By what power? Yah-Yah Fun Day! Pages 12-13 S.C. asks Judicial Council to decide authority of GC secretary By Jessica Connor

Are there any limits on the authori - ty of the secretary of General New Salkehatchie- Conference to decide the number of inspired mission delegates? effort That’s what the United Methodist Page 24 Judicial Council is being asked to PRAY 40 – Elizabeth Easler (left), Cecelia Williams and Alysha Walters praise Christ in determine when it convenes Oct. 27- song during a 40-day churchwide movement to pray for the next generation of 30 in New Orleans. Christian leaders as they head to college and university campuses. This trio, above, The S.C. Conference is requesting a participated in a Columbia College Galilean Service Aug. 23 at College Place UMC. ruling on whether the secretary has the For more photos, see page 11. (Photo by Jessica Connor) See “Power,” Page 24 ‘All children of God’ Summit celebrates, Columbia’s new Hispanic ministry First ministry reaches out to local community strengthens the candidates to go through Wesley By Jessica Connor black church Foundation for COLUMBIA – So many times, she has sat across a kitchen By Jessica Connor tion and enthusiasm for certification passionate worship – I see Page 2 table and heard the all-too-familiar stories of hardship and desperation. If United Methodism is that as yeast in the batter The mother who hasn’t seen her children in 10 years a loaf of bread, then for of Methodism. It’s some - because she’s working like a slave to support them. The the Rev. Ken Nelson, the thing particular to the Epworth Children’s husband facing a deportation hearing, scared he’ll never see black church is the yeast. black church, distinctive.” Home Work Day, his wife again. The man living in a trailer with seven other Like yeast, the black And it’s that distinctive - Sept. 12 men, eating stale bread just to survive. The woman with church uplifts and inspires ness and energy that broken English who struggles daily to help her children rise the denomination – and Nelson is hoping to tap above and succeed. adds a healthy dose of Right here in America. unique flavor. See “Summit,” Page 15 For the Rev. Emily Scales Sutton, the pain and sadness “Everyone that countless Hispanics endure every day is heartbreaking. brings something “These people live in fear,” Sutton said. “Every day I to the table,” said meet someone with an immigration issue. I got a call this Nelson, congrega - morning from a lady whose son might have a deportation tional specialist, hearing, but he might not, because she can’t understand the African-American documents. Every day someone tells me ‘I don’t have a job ministries, for the because I don’t have the documents,’ or ‘I can’t go to the S.C. Conference. food bank because I don’t have the documents,’ or ‘I can’t “The black church’s celebra - Bishop Linda Dobbins Lee to keynote. See “Hispanic,” Page 17

4 Opinion 18 Calendar 19 Obituaries 22 District News Issue Index: 5 Commentary 18 Classifieds 21 Resource Center 23 IBS Lessons Page 2, September 2010 The South Carolina United Methodist Advocate A different path First ministry candidates to go through Wesley Foundation instead of local church By Jessica Connor best way for me.” Lazarus and Augustine are now History has been made. working their way through seminary – This year, the S.C. Conference certi - Lazarus at Perkins School of Theology, fied two candidates for ordained min - Southern Methodist University, Dallas, istry who pursued their path in a non - and Augustine at Duke Divinity traditional way: through their campus School. Both hope their stories help ministry instead of their local church. people understand how valuable cam - Megan Augustine and Brandon pus ministries are both for students Lazarus are the first two candidates to generally and those called to ministry. achieve certification this way. And “Unfortunately for some people, though the path was sometimes rocky they don’t really view the Wesley and they sometimes felt a little like Foundation as a church per se,” guinea pigs, they consider it a special Lazarus said. “It’s something people way to honor the place where they got do while at college, but they don’t their divine call. view it as a typical church. But that’s Before the 2008 Book of Discipline , not the case at all. I see more going on candidates for ordained ministry could in our Wesley Foundation than in any only pursue certification through a other church. We do 15 hours of com - local church. But the new Discipline Brandon Lazarus brushes a child’s teeth during a spring break trip to Brazil this munity service a week. We have six authorizes certification through cam - year with a group from the Methodist Student Network at the University of South Carolina. A week after he graduated from USC in May, he learned he was certified different small groups, and in our small pus ministries. as a candidate for ministry. group of 40-50 people, I’ve seen us do “It’s particularly interesting because more work and grow closer to God John Wesley himself was a campus and switched to certifica - the right thing,” he said. than in some churches. minister,” said Tim McClendon, tion through the Wesley “Someone had to be first “Every year since I’ve been there, Columbia District superintendent, who Foundation. and lay the groundwork there’s been at least one person who’s said the new path is very much in It wasn’t easy, he said. for what we needed to gotten the call through the Wesley keeping with Methodist history. After all, the Discipline do.” Foundation.” “Wesley was a fellow, a tutor, at didn’t spell out every - Augustine feels much Narcie Jeter, campus minister for Lincoln College at Oxford University. thing a candidate needed the same way about her Winthrop’s Wesley Foundation, said His involvement in the Holy Club and to do, and there were historic role. she is pleased the new path of certifica - much of his sense of calling came some key differences he “This opens the door tion is bringing greater recognition to from the campus ministry.” had to iron out with help for other students and the importance of campus ministry. Lazarus and Augustine both from McClendon and young adults to go “This is a ministry setting that is answered their call through their cam - Conference Secretary Tim Rogers. through their Wesley Foundation,” she rich in its multifaceted approach to pus ministry – Lazarus through the “For instance, the Wesley said. “(College) is a time when a lot of ministry and is key to the future of our Methodist Student Network at the Foundation doesn’t have a charge con - us are called to ministry, and being church,” Jeter said. “As we as a gener - University of South Carolina, ference per se, and when you meet able to go through that makes a lot of al church look at the future of our con - Columbia, and Augustine through the with the Staff Parish Relations sense.” nection, we have got to continue to Wesley Foundation at Winthrop Committee, that doesn’t really exist in Unlike Lazarus, Augustine didn’t build up these areas that call forth the University, Rock Hill. the Wesley Foundation – it’s either a have a local United Methodist church next generation of leaders.” When Lazarus answered his call in board or group approved by the that would have certified her as a can - Jeter said right now, three Winthrop 2007, the church still operated under District Board of Ordained Ministry,” didate for ministry. She grew up in a Wesley students are in seminary, three the 2004 Discipline , so achieving his Lazarus said. “So we all had to sit different denomination, but when she are in active youth ministry, one is certification through his USC Wesley down and decide ‘What does this began working as a house manager at serving in Costa Rica with United Foundation wasn’t an option. He start - mean?’ A lot of things I would do and Winthrop’s Wesley House and she got Methodist Volunteers in Mission and ed the process through his former then get it approved by the board. So involved with the Wesley Foundation another is heading to the Philippines church in Knoxville, Tenn. they would be able to say this worked, there, she soon felt her call. with the Peace Corps. “But for me, my church was my and this is what we’ll do in the future, Before the 2008 Discipline , she “This generation is on the move and Wesley Foundation,” he said. or we’ll do things a little different next would have had to find another church is seeking ways to be in ministry,” Jeter Then he met Augustine at time.” home to help her through the certifica - said. “We as the church need to be Exploration, an event for people feel - But he knew the extra work would tion process, but under the new ready to equip these young leaders.” ing the call to ministry in The United be worth it in the end – not only for Discipline , she was able go through the McClendon agreed: “It’s another evi - Methodist Church. And he learned that him, but for future candidates also. process where she felt most comfortable. dence that we’ll do whatever it takes, the 2008 Discipline now allowed can - “It might have gone smoother had I She said it was exciting to be able to meet people wherever they are.” didates a different path. not gone through the Wesley go through the campus ministry to “It’s a great progression for the future Lazarus decided to take the plunge Foundation, but me doing it now was achieve certification: “This was the of our conference,” Augustine said. Pastor, wife arrested on child pornography charges By Jessica Connor of third-degree sexual exploitation of Wire reports indicate the couple “I have been saddened by this news a minor, a felony offense punishable says they are innocent. and continue to keep the Ponds family BAMBERG – A Bamberg pastor of up to 10 years imprisonment, for Ponds did not return the Advocate’s and the Mount Carmel church in my and his wife have been charged with allegedly possessing digital images calls for comment. prayers,” said Bishop Mary Virginia having child pornography on their depicting children engaged in sex Rev. Ponds is appointed to Mount Taylor. “In compliance with The Book computer. acts. Carmel United Methodist Church in of Discipline , we are following the According to S.C. Attorney A computer belonging to the cou - the Orangeburg district, but he is on administrative procedures regarding General Henry McMaster, Grady ple was seized and taken to the ministerial suspension, meaning he is this matter.” Bernard Ponds, 41, and Rhonda Jean Attorney General’s Office for forensic still paid and lives in the parsonage Anyone arrested is presumed inno - Ponds, 40, were arrested July 27. examination. Trial has not yet been but does not perform any ministerial cent unless proven guilty in a court of They are each charged with one count set. duties. law. The South Carolina United Methodist Advocate September 2010, Page 3 Other News

Hank Leeke and Pamela Hoppock stand next to a bookshelf he built and brought with him to the Fairfield Salkehatchie Camp. 16 YEARS RUNNING! – Wings for the Lord Youth Choir from St. Mark United Methodist Church, Seneca, traveled to St. Louis, Mo., for its 16th annual sum - mer choir tour. Churches in Tennessee, Kentucky, Missouri and Georgia host - Bookshelf project makes debut ed the choir, whose concert featured songs illustrating the need for our Savior, By Lyn Mueller Blythewood Salkehatchie camp and as well as a drama presented by its senior class. In addition to concerts, the enthusiastic support of John and Wings for the Lord had the opportunity to help a neighborhood mission, All It was Pamela Hoppock’s vision – Tami Covert (Blythewood God’s Children, feed and care for children. Choir members also were able to sing, play and spend an afternoon with teenagers and adults with special an idea that came together while taking Salkehatchie directors) and with needs at the Stewart Home for Special People in Kentucky. Wings for the a graduate class last summer, but one Brown in the wings for Fairfield. Lord, for youth in grades 7 to 12, began as a small group of youth wanting to that was probably percolating for Books, magazines, Bibles and devo - celebrate God’s grace through singing. For more information about the choir, years. tionals began to come from every - e-mail [email protected]. Pamela, known by many as Pamela where, almost too fast. Where could Williams, daughter of the Rev. Tom we possibly store all of them? and Polly Williams, is one of Trinity With support from Blythewood (Blythewood) UMC’s first Rotary, storage was leased, and volun - Salkehatchie youth participants. teers began to sort books. Fairfield Salkehatchie Director Bill Pamela’s original idea was to pro - Brown says he originally became vide a bookcase for every family and a involved in Salkehatchie after listening shelf for each member of the house - to Pamela speak about her experiences. hold stocked with at least 20 per per - Fast-forward a few years. Pamela is son. Volunteers found bookcases, in the throes of pursuing a master’s hauled books to the storage unit, sorted degree in library and media sciences at books, met with families to get to the University of South Carolina. One know their particular interests, selected of her class assignments is to design a books for each family member, hauled proposal for funding that would some - more books, painted bookcases, boxed how enhance literacy. up books and finally delivered the Pamela thinks about her bookcases with books, magazines and Salkehatchie days and asks the all- Bibles for young and old. BIG WINNER – Pegilie Walter (pictured above) was the lucky winner of a important “what if” question. What Sony digital camera given away by Southern Mutual Church Insurance at the As with any heartfelt mission, the 2010 Annual Conference. Walter is a member of Shandon United Methodist stands in the way of many of our stories were remarkable. Before he left Church, Columbia. She is married to the Rev. Ted Walter, former Columbia Salkehatchie families becoming more the Wednesday night barbecue at District superintendent and retired minister. Also pictured, Jim Ellis, of empowered? What are possible hurdles Trinity UMC, one man, Mr. Green, Southern Mutual and also a member of Shandon UMC, said his company is a that children of Salkehatchie families asked me for a large-print Bible: “King friend of the S.C. Conference. Southern Mutual has partnered with the Laity face? What if, in addition to helping Convocation held at Lake Junaluska and the eChristianEd program since its James, please, ma’am.” That night, a inception. Southern Mutual also provided underwriting for the African them be warm, safe and dry, we could box of newly purchased assorted bibles Children’s Choir in 2009. give them something that would con - sent by the grandmother of a Lancaster tinue to support them long after the camper was delivered. What was on camps are over? top? A King James Bible in large print; After much research, she concluded with gold leafed pages, no less! that the single most important contri - In all, more than 650 literacy items bution that she could make would be were delivered during Blythewood 1836. Publication began July 24, 1837. Publisher to provide quality reading material in Salkehatchie and more than 1,000 The S.C. United Methodist Advocate Trustees Marilyn Murphy, chairperson; The paper is published monthly by the homes. items during Fairfield Salkehatchie. Angela Nelson, vice chairperson; the S.C. United Methodist Advocate Trustees Fast-forward a few months. She the Rev. Steven King, secretary; at 4908 Colonial Drive, Suite 207, No matter the numbers, Pamela and Carmen Faulkner, treasurer; Columbia, SC 29203. voiced her idea to Rev. Cathy I, along with all of the volunteers, feel Richard Baines; Robert Bentley; www.scadvocate-online.org the Rev. Robin Dease; the Rev. Jerry Gadsden; Jamieson-Ogg when they spoke during we have made a dent in turning those the Rev. Keith Hunter; Gladys Lemon; The individual subscription rate is $15 annually. the Rev. Dean Lollis; the Rev. Evelyn Middleton; Renewals are $13. To subscribe or for a hospital visit with her father. Cathy’s who can read into those who do read. the Rev. Rodney Powell; and Diane Wilson information about discounted church plan rates, please call 803-786-9486 or 888-678-6272, reply: “Let’s make it happen.” Every year, I look forward to listen - or e-mail [email protected]. Editors emeritus And so the project was born. In ret - ing to the Salkehatchie campers tell the J. Claude Evans, M. Eugene Mullikin, Maryneal Jones, Willie S. Teague, Allison Askins, We cannot be responsible for unsolicited rospect, it somehow seems fitting that congregation stories of what they Karl F. Davie Burgdorf, Emily L. Cooper manuscripts. Please d irect all inquiries regarding commentary submissions to: it happened in a hospital room. learned. This year, the scope of those the editor, 4908 Colonial Drive, Suite 207, Editor: Jessica Connor [email protected] Columbia, SC 29203-6070. After months of talking with every - stories has become just a little bit 803-786-9486/FAX 803-735-8168 Advertising/Circulation/Assistant Editor: one who would listen, bouncing ideas wider thanks to the Bookshelf Project. Allison K. Trussell Periodicals postage paid at Columbia, S.C. [email protected] Postmaster: Send address changes to: off of interested folks and asking The South Carolina United Methodist Advocate , 4908 Colonial Drive, Suite 207, Columbia, SC 29203 everyone to pitch in, the Bookshelf For more information e-mail phop The South Carolina United Methodist Advocate (ISSN 1078-8166) continues the Southern Christian Project officially began with the [email protected]. Advocate, authorized by the General Conference of September 2010 • Volume 174 • No. 9 Page 4, September 2010 The South Carolina United Methodist Advocate

VIEWPOINT Bishop’s Corner

Jessica Connor, Editor Bishop Mary Virginia Taylor

Love not in words, but in action Vital churches On page 9 of this month’s edition, I draw your attention to guest columns Does your church have life and that have only a traditional or only a written by two Salkehatchie alumni – one a teenager, one an adult. What touch - vitality? Is it an essential part of your contemporary worship service, the es me especially about these columns is the do-gooder Christ-inspired sincerity life? There are some ways you can highest percentage of vital churches these volunteers have about the annual summer service project. It’s a spirit I’ve help your church thrive. offers opportunities for both traditional heard echoed by a host of people since I started as Advocate editor in June. A recent study of the more than and contemporary worship. The effec - And while I’ve never been to Salkehatchie myself, I must admit I’m inspired 32,000 United Methodist churches in tiveness of pastors in specific areas by these tales – and intrigued. So intrigued, in fact, that I’m seriously consider - the United States found that strong, makes a big difference, as well. ing my own Salkehatchie experience next summer. energetic, vital churches come in Unsurprisingly, the highest impact on For those of you who don’t know, Salkehatchie Summer Service Project is an every shape and size. Whether your the vitality of the church is inspiring annual effort where people spend $200 and one full week of their lives in the church is nestled against the backdrop the congregation through preaching. blisteringly hot South Carolina sun to repair someone’s home. The brainchild of of a picturesque country scene or is Rated almost as high is the pastor’s the Rev. John Culp, Salkehatchie started in 1978 with 25 participants. This year, located in the heart of downtown with ability to influence others to accom - its 32nd, offered 51 different volunteer weeks (three of them international!) homeless folks nestled in the door - plish changes in the church. It is also spread out between mid-May and early August. ways, it can be thriving. significant that pastors who focus on More than 3,500 people participated in Salkehatchie 2010, including 343 14- Sometimes folks get discouraged developing and coaching lay leader - year-olds (the minimum age), 35 people older than age 70, and 311 from out-of- and think the grass appears to be ship are 70 percent more likely to state. The first year, Salkehatchie had a budget of $2,939. Today, its budget is greener around some - $800,000 and climbing. one else’s church, “It’s gotten so big, and every year, it’s a little more,” said Tammy Fulmer, rather than our own. S.C. Conference staffer who registers Salkehatchie participants. “To see it is This research proj - unbelievable.” ect discovered that There is si“mply no other Fulmer and Gail Corn, who assists her with registration, feel a bit like mother there are essential hens, watching something they care about flourish and thrive. things present in all alternative than for each “It’s a pay it forward,” said Corn, who went on her first Salkehatchie experi - thriving churches, ence this year. “There are other things you can do with your summer than be regardless of where person to see to it personally. crawling under people’s houses, but these volunteers do for those who can’t do they are located, who for themselves just to see the smiles on their faces.” the members are or Eighty-three-year-old Robert Rutland, of the Columbia District, who has how many people The Rev. Jim Wallis gone to Salkehatchie for 20 years now, said he feels God calls him back to come to Sunday wor - Fairfield Camp every year. Even though the work is harder on his eight decades ship. I already knew of bones than it was when he was in his 60s, he plans to go back next year. that God can use us “I see a need, and I see people who are really appreciative for what we do,” all, but it is nice when ” he told me. “Any time you see this work, you remember the Scriptures about the statistics prove me helping the least of these, helping your fellow man in need, and you want to right. have highly vital churches. reach out and help him.” I want to share with you just a few The Rev. Jim Wallis, editor of Fourteen-year-old Clayton Sosebee, a Salkehatchie first-timer from the of the highlights of their research. Sojourners magazine, tells of traveling Anderson District, said much the same thing. His church has been sending vol - Their results clearly suggest ways that in South Africa in the late 1980s. He unteers to Salkehatchie for many years, and he’d always vowed that when he we can strengthen our churches. reported: turned 14, he’d go, too. First, they found that small groups “Nelson Mandela was still in “When you’re working on those people’s houses, and they don’t have any - gathering for study, fellowship and prison, and the world thought for thing, and you’re done and you see the smiles on their faces, it’s just awesome,” service are life-giving to a congrega - good. School children were being he said. “It’s a huge step in your faith. So many times, you are surrounded by tion. More vital churches have more killed daily by government police, and non-Christians at school and other places, but Salkehatchie is different. It really small groups, more programs for chil - the struggle seemed to be at a stand - helps you get closer to God.” dren and more programs for youth. still. I met a 14-year-old boy who was, John writes, “How does God’s love abide in anyone who has the world’s This is true for every church, from the like many there, organizing in elemen - goods and sees a brother or sister in need and yet refuses help? Little children, very smallest to the largest. Simply tary and high schools. Let’s not forget let us love, not in word or speech, but in truth and action” (1 John 3:17-18, increasing the number of small groups the final turn of victory in South NRSV). can increase the energy and enthusi - Africa was facilitated by the bravery Registration for Salkehatchie 2011 begins in January. Indeed, let us love in asm within your church. Jesus and wisdom of children. Anyway, I action. reminds us, “Where two or three are asked him if he was optimistic for the gathered together in my name, there future, and he said, ‘Absolutely.’ Letters am I in the midst of them.” “When I asked him if he thought We welcome letters to the editor. In focus groups conducted on behalf of the Second, churches with effective lay there would be a new, free South Board of Trustees, Advocate readers said they wanted shorter, to-the-point let - leadership are 84 percent more likely Africa someday, he stated to me mat - ters and commentary. Succinct writing often produces clarity and better writing. to be vital and make that congregation ter-of-factly: ‘I shall see to it personal - Thus letters to the editor are to be . Commentary will no more than 300 words 54 percent more likely to be growing. ly.’” run from a maximum of 600 to 950 words, as judged by the editor according to the interest and points made. All letters and commentary are subject to editing Effective lay leadership is the result of Jim Wallis concluded by stating, as needed to meet standards of grammar, space and interest. Inappropriate men and women with an authentic “There is simply no other alternative language or personal attacks will be struck. Letters should be sent to: personal faith. than for each person to see to it per - The Advocate In other words, they have a strong sonally.” 4908 Colonial Drive, Suite 207 prayer life and regularly study the Now that you have waded through Columbia, SC 29203-6070 Bible. They attend weekly worship all of these research statistics, let me FAX (803) 735-8168 services, participate in mission oppor - ask you one question. Are you opti - You may also e-mail letters to: tunities, give a portion of their income mistic about the future of your [email protected] to God and unreservedly share their church? OCTOBER DEADLINE: SEPT. 10 faith. Deepening your relationship Like that young boy in South NOVEMBER DEADLINE: OCT. 11 with God strengthens you and your Africa, I hope you can answer, All letters will be verified, so you must include a name, church. “Absolutely, and I shall see to it per - daytime phone number, church membership and hometown. Third, while there are vital churches sonally.” The South Carolina United Methodist Advocate September 2010, Page 5 Letters to the Editor

Kudos to Reese, Leonard $50,359.) made from local agencies and Father God In 2011, each of the 12 churches. You must own your own This is my first letter to the editor Superintendents will receive a base home and have a great need. The I am now reading “The Great of the Advocate even though I have salary of $91,200. In addition, they main goal of the program is to pro - House of God” by Max Lucado. I been a Methodist pastor for over 62 receive health insurance (single) vide a safe, warm and dry home. thought the following paragraph years. $5,544, pension $19,320, travel This year, the group restored 11 was worth sharing with the readers In the most recent Advocate $11,500, for a total cost to the con - homes: three in Estill, two in of the Advocate. (August 2010), there were two ference of $127,564. Reducing the Furman, one in Varnville and five in “Of all his names, ‘Father’ is items in which I am in agreement. number of districts from 12 to eight Hampton. God’s favorite. We know he loves 1. Rev. Fred Reese’s “Guest would save the conference $510,256 Service workers pay a $200 fee to this name most because this is the Commentary.” 2. Rev. Ronald (not to mention administrative costs participate. The fees are used to one he used most. While on earth, Leonard’s “Post Conference incurred in four district offices of secure materials and supplies for the Jesus called God ‘Father’ over 200 Thoughts.” I will say, however, that $201,436). In these difficult times, homes being repaired. Local times. In his first recorded words, I feel the guaranteed appointment it would be wise to consider saving churches and individual sponsors Jesus explained, ‘Didn’t you know system has seen its day. $712,692. also provide funds for work to be that I must be in my Father’s How could the conference The Rev. John Wesley Culp completed. house?’ (Luke 2:49). In his tri - increase salaries and apportionments Virginia Wingard Memorial UMC Workers are cared for by local umphant prayer, he proclaimed, in these financially tough times? I Columbia churches who provide lunch and ‘Father, I give you my life’ (Luke receive a number of church bulletins dinner daily. The workers put in a 23:46). In the Gospel of John alone, through the mail each week. None Good job full day and look forward to fellow - Jesus repeats the name 156 times. are even in contributions to their ship both on the site and during God loves to be called Father. After budget needs. Many staffs have had I want to commend you for the meals. Their reward is knowing the all, didn’t Jesus teach us to begin no salary increase for two years. good job you are doing in your mission they have been called to has our prayer with the phrase ‘Our The local church must cut back. objectivity in reporting in the been successful. Many of Abba’?” Why not the General, Jurisdictional Advocate . The words of Fred and Salkehatchie workers have been I still don’t know of a more scrip - and Annual conferences? Ronald Leonard need to be heard. inspired by past projects and the tural way to pray than to say, “Our I pray for the Methodist Church Editorial ethics call for it, and good support of local residents to return heavenly Father.” The Mormons are every day. May God bless us all. stewardship demands it. for a second or third year of service. all careful to do this. Just a thought. The Rev. Thomas Brittain, retired In addition, there was a whole Without the support of local The Rev. Phil Jones, retired Myrtle Beach host of good articles and informa - churches, businesses and individu - Orangeburg tion in the Advocate lately. Good als, this mission could not be Save money work! accomplished. To support this min - An open invitation by cutting districts? Richard Harrington istry, please contact the business to former charge pastors Highland Park UMC, Florence offices of any local church. The pro - gram can use donations ranging A significant number of confer - The West Kershaw Charge is from building supplies to money to ences in the Southeastern On Salkehatchie honored to have two churches cele - water and Gatorade. Jurisdiction have voted to reduce brating their 200th year of ministry Thank you to all who have been a the number of districts (and superin - Over 30 years old, Salkehatchie for the Methodist church this year. part of helping us accomplish our tendents) in their conferences as fol - Summer Service is the granddaddy We are in the process of sending out goal of repairing 11 homes in lows: Alabama-West Florida: 10 of all organized youth home repair invitations to the previous pastors of Hampton County. The families that districts, reduced to eight. Virginia: missions. It was born here in Smyrna UMC in Elgin and allow us to work on their homes 18 districts, reduced to 16. Missis- Hampton by the Rev. John Culp, Ebenezer UMC in Lugoff. As good have been a blessing to us, too. sippi: 12 districts, reduced to 11. minister of Hampton UMC in 1978. as memories and records are, there Sally Hiers Florida: 14 districts, reduced to Renovations include roof replace - is always the fear that someone will Hampton UMC nine. North Alabama: 12 districts, ment, flooring, ramps and handicap Hampton reduced to five. showers and toilets. Referrals are See “Letters,” Page 6 The time has come for our con - ference to adopt a plan to reduce the number of districts. A proposal to reduce the number of districts was Correction & Clarification put forth some years ago by the late In the August edition, several morning further debate (and the Conference financials far exceeds Delos Corderman. sources have brought to the vote) on restructuring, but the con - $5,500, said Conference Treasurer We now have on staff six congre - Advocate’s attention some inaccura - ference body called for the end of Tony Prestipino; he said this gational specialists who support cies and needed clarifications in the debate and the vote. year’s audit would likely cost local churches in programming and Fred Reese guest column, “Loving • Action on the budget is not permit - about $45,000. Advocate auditor access to resources, reducing the Critics, Not Uncritical Lovers.” The ted until the final day of Annual Robert E. Milhous, CPA, PA & workload of superintendents and Advocate is not addressing the opin - Conference per Standing Rule 21 Associates, said the normal range providing a timely exploration of ions or validity of the commentary, (per the 2009 Journal, page 241). for a budget that size would be ways to reduce the number of dis - only some of the facts. To correct • District Superintendent salaries are substantially more than $5,500, tricts. and clarify: less than $100,000 – $88,200 for with many variables, such as Ours is an age of communication • Despite what was published, more 2010 (per 2009 Journal, page 145; whether books and records are in technology and resources that can laity were registered for 2010 CF&A Report No. 4A) and good shape, are comprehensive allow reduction of the number of Annual Conference than clergy. $91,200 for 2011 (per 2010 Pre- and accurate, and have good con - districts without impeding adminis - According to the Office of the Conference Materials, page 3; trols. Milhous said an audit is trative oversight of churches and Conference Secretary, there were CF&A Report No. 4A). predicated not only on the quality programs. 822 registered clergy and 902 reg - • While a new comptroller is author - of those variables, but also on the The economic crisis we are mov - istered laity. ized if needed, no additional con - amount of time the accounting ing through in our country impacts • The report of Connectional ference staff members have been professional has to spend. He said local churches, as well. Ministries was presented at the added. an audit of $40,000 to $60,000 Unemployment in S.C. is well over end of Saturday, but there was • The 2009 audit cost of $55,000 is seems reasonable. 10 percent. Consider some cost sav - ample time given for debate. The not 10 times the amount normally ings to the conference from reduc - Bishop and the Director of required for an audit of a budget The Advocate apologizes for any tion in the number of districts. Connectional Ministries were the size of the Conference’s, at inaccuracies printed and strives to set (Average cost of district expenses ready to postpone until Sunday $34 million. An audit of the record straight. Page 6, September 2010 The South Carolina United Methodist Advocate Ministries & Missions Haiti UMVIM volunteers already looking to 2012 By Linda Bloom, UMNS would arrive in Haiti on a Monday, stay at the guest house overnight, be So many United Methodist driven to a remote work location for Volunteer in Mission teams are sign - a few days, return for an overnight at ing up for work in Haiti that a the guest house and fly home the request already has been made for next day. 2012. Scheduling is complicated by Through its Haiti Response Plan, housing and transportation arrange - the church is now rotating teams into ments. the country to assist with earthquake “Usually, there is a pretty signifi - recovery. “I’ve got weeks that are cant delay between when people too full,” said Susan Meister, the request dates and when we can U.S.-based coordinator. “The respond to them,” Meister explained. response has just been tremendous.” “Our goal right now is to have five Space remains for additional projects open at a time in the field.” teams this year, she added. So far, Besides paying their own expens - 107 teams, including ecumenical es, teams contribute $3,500 each, to teams, have been scheduled for which matching funds are added. 2010. The total is sent to Haiti to pay for In April, directors of the United A volunteer team of United Methodists, led by Greg Forrester, Northeastern workers and supplies. “One of the Methodist Committee on Relief Jurisdiction coordinator (top left) and their Haitian interpreter worked May 10-17 in major goals of this grant was to approved a $565,000 grant to sup - Mellier, Haiti. More than 100 work teams have been scheduled through 2010. (A employ Haitians at a ratio of 2 to 1,” port the pilot phase of a volunteer UMNS photo by Jim Jones.) she said. “We take that very serious - team project sponsored with the Methodist Guest House in Port-au- “The teams that have come back ly.” United Methodist General Board of Prince. Doug Nagle is serving in say it’s physically exhausting and Some team placements are avail - Global Ministries. The next month, Haiti as the finance and hospitality emotionally grueling,” she noted. able for the rest of 2010. January and jurisdictional coordinators for United coordinator. February of 2011 are essentially Methodist Volunteers in Mission led Leaders of the volunteer teams Limited to 10 members closed, Meister said, with 31 teams three work teams to Haiti composed have United Methodist Volunteers in Most teams will spend seven to scheduled and several more pending. of people who would eventually lead Mission training, along with previous nine days in Haiti. The size of each Twenty-five teams are awaiting con - their own teams. experience in Haiti, Meister said. No team is limited to 10 people, who firmation on dates in March through Meister is coordinating with the children younger than 16 are allowed must all arrive and depart at the July 2011. Rev. Mike Willis, the volunteer man - on the teams and youth ages 16 or 17 same time. More is available at www.umvim agement coordinator based at the must be accompanied by a parent. On a typical schedule, a team haiti.org . An ‘appreciation kind of celebration’ at Epworth Sept. 26 Next year, Epworth Children’s ing support of the friends of crowd and encourage guests to bring continue to present themselves. Home will celebrate its 115th year Epworth, the home is announcing along a blanket or lawn chair. Epworth Children’s Home has of service to South Carolina’s chil - and inviting all volunteers and Following worship, the celebra - thousands of people to thank for sus - dren. As the staff members pause to donors to the First Annual tion will continue with cookies and, taining the ministry for the last 114 plan and consider the countless lives Appreciation Celebration on Sunday, of course, Epworth’s famous peanut- years. changed and children nurtured Sept. 26, from 3 to 4:30 p.m. butter ice cream. As it is told by “The good people of the throughout Epworth’s history, the The celebration will begin with those who called Epworth home dur - Methodist Church are the life blood loving and faithful support of the worship on the circle. For those who ing the Great Depression, food was of this ministry – a ministry that United Methodist Church has been have never visited Epworth, the “cir - hard to come by, even at Epworth – belongs to them,” said the Rev. John the constant in Epworth’s ability to cle” is a large grass area directly in but peanuts they had. They made Holler, president of Epworth. continue God’s mission to children front of Epworth Memorial UMC, everything out of peanuts, including “Epworth’s ability to care for chil - in crisis. where every child worships on ice cream. The alumni have fond dren is the direct result of their giv - In appreciation for the unwaver - Sunday. They are expecting a large memories of receiving the peanut- ing and time.” butter ice cream as a special treat. For more information about the Today, Epworth continues to event or to RSVP, contact Mitzie serve the frozen treat to guests and Schafer at 803-256-7394 or the children as special occasions [email protected]. LETTERS: Celebrate From Page 5 three churches for the charge have be missed. This being said, the agreed to forgo their customary charge would like to send an open service times so the charge can be invitation to those clergy who have in worship together on these dates. served the charge and any persons Should you need additional infor - who have been connected to the mation or simply want to RSVP for ALDERSGATE HELPS HONOR FLIGHT – The Aldersgate United Methodist charge to join us on these dates. the events, please feel free to con - Men, Aldersgate UMC, Greenville, have had a long history of members that Sept. 26 is the celebration date tact us at 803-438-1708 (Salem have served in U.S. armed forces. Recently, the men had a visit from mem - for Smyrna UMC. Our presiding UMC office). bers of the Greenville County Sheriff’s Office to discuss a ministry called bishop will be giving the sermon for Praising God for His unending Honor Flight. This organization provides transportation, meals and guardians grace. for U.S. veterans of World War II to Washington D.C. to visit the World War II this 11 a.m. service. The Oct. 10 Memorial. Pastor Mike Bruce and the UMM of Aldersgate agreed to collect a service for Ebenezer UMC will find special offering for this organization. They raised $2,320 and have submitted the district superintendent for the Rev. Joanne Lockard-Hawkins between 15-20 guardian applications. Above, Bruce gives a check to Captain Columbia district bringing the ser - West Kershaw Charge Bill Cunningham of the Greenville County Sheriff’s Office for Honor Flight. mon for the 11 a.m. worship. All Elgin The South Carolina United Methodist Advocate September 2010, Page 7 Ministries & Missions

GUEST COMMENTARY Mission work – the right prescription By Scott Bach-Hansen great breakfast). Our first trip to Allendale was sched - I recently had a conversation with uled for early October. Unfortunately, I someone I had met for the first time learned that my mother had passed when he asked about my shirt, which away, and we postponed the trip two said, “Got Allendale?” on the front of weeks. It would have been easy to walk the shirt. away from attending that trip, but I felt When I explained it was part of a I needed to go to honor my mother. I mission trip I had organized at was there to help this community by Aldersgate United Methodist Church painting some classrooms and updating The author stands with the mission team he organized at Aldersgate United (Greenville) that has traveled to the materials in their library, which was Methodist Church that has traveled to Allendale to help their elementary school with various projects. Advocate) Allendale to help their elementary desperately needed. (Photo special to the school with various projects, the gentle - But more important was that I was within me when we were finished. It due to budget cuts. And just as I had man asked me “Why? Why would you receiving the best medicine that mis - was a truly moving experience for me, suspected, the medicine I received was travel to an area and help other people? sions can provide, which is a true sense and I was so happy to attend. There are better than staying at home feeling Do the people of Allendale appreciate of doing God’s work for others. There no painkillers available that could sorry for myself. your help?” is a great peace I had within me when match the incredible medicine of a mis - I recently attended my first Annual The immediate thought is that I we were driving home. It was a peace - sion complete. Conference. I was moved by so many believe that they do. However, that is ful feeling that could not have been On our third trip that year, I was things that I was able to witness, and I not why we have been there four times accomplished staying home. really feeling down. I walked into the enjoyed writing letters to the soldiers in the past two years. The reason for The second trip was scheduled for office at work only to find out that my for my part in the Great Day of going on these mission trips is much the end of January. Unfortunately, position had been eliminated along Service. The theme of the Annual more meaningful, especially for me another setback happened when I rup - with 132 other managers across the Conference was “For the Least of personally. Let me explain. tured my Achilles tendon on Jan. 9 and country. Not knowing where to turn These,” and it got me thinking about I have had a very challenging couple had surgery on Jan. 16 to repair the and feeling very insufficient, I was not my experiences in Allendale. of years, and it would have been very injury. Our trip was only 11 days later, sure that going on a mission trip was While there are many that need help easy to sit at home and feel sorry for and I knew we had scheduled a lot to what I needed or what my family need - around the world and in our own back - myself. When we first heard about the do on this trip, including painting more ed from me. yards, it is the ability to provide help Corridor of Shame and how schools classrooms and replacing the original And then it dawned on me that my that is the real medicine. I am amazed along I-95 from the North Carolina to carpet (circa 1950) in the nurse’s office previous trips were also very challeng - that helping others was allowing me to Georgia state lines were in dire straits with tile floor to make it easier to keep ing, and the reward I received in pro - recover from both physical and emo - because of a lack of funding from the sanitary for the school. viding mission for others was important tional pain. state of South Carolina, I wanted to get I am not sure that my surgeon would to me. So to the gentleman who asked me involved. have allowed me to go on this mission So I went on the trip, where we “why,” the answer is quite simple. I As a father of three little girls, I trip (he later confirmed my suspicion), pulled weeds, planted azaleas and enjoy helping “the least” so I can make believe that having a level playing field so I didn’t ask him and went anyway. It added mulch to the front of the school. “the most” of myself. for our children is a must. was uncomfortable, and I was confined The members of Aldersgate UMC had Unfortunately, because of the way the to a wheelchair and crutches for most also raised enough money to send the Bach-Hansen is president of state spreads the money around is of the time. However, once again we fifth grade students on a class trip to Aldersgate United Methodist Men and based on a number of factors that took such a great group and accom - Carowinds Amusement Park. This was president-elect of the Greenville includes how much different areas con - plished so much that I had a calm sense done because their trip was cancelled District United Methodist Men. tribute in taxes based on the industries and population, there is a void in these schools. But that is a different article that has already been written. Upon a few conversations with lead - ers like Bud Ferillo, president and founder of Ferillo & Associates, which specializes in public affairs, and Dr. Thomas Truitt, a retired superintendent of Florence County Public Schools, we had some areas we could focus. In speaking with Dr. Truitt one day, I asked him if we were to send a group to one of the area’s most affected, where should we look? He answered, “There are many places you could go, but there is one area that might interest you because nobody wants to go there, and that’s Allendale.” That was all I needed to hear. Along the planning stages, we were able to partner with Swallow Savannah UMC and use their facility to sleep in the church the night before we got going (the members also provided us a Page 8, September 2010 The South Carolina United Methodist Advocate Ministries & Missions Churches challenged to learn, help during Hunger Awareness Month Hunger is a year-in-year-out prob - prayers; a prayer calendar; litany; dra - lem. But during September, hunger matic reading; bulletin insert; “feed advocates, agencies and alliances my sheep” art; U.S. and world hunger across the country are working togeth - fact sheets; and steps to fight hunger. er to focus attention on the issue of The prayer calendar is specially hunger in America. designed as a way to help congrega - According to the Society of St. tions get personally engaged, through Andrew, 49 million Americans now prayer and action, in the mission of live with food insecurity – the situa - helping the hungry and to work for an tion in which one never knows from end to hunger. CHRISTMAS IN JULY – St. Mark United Methodist Church, Columbia, held its day to day if they will have enough All of these resources are available annual Christmas in July for the 14th year. The number of people had food for their children and themselves. for free download at http://www.end - decreased a bit, but new people came who had never attended a Christmas September is National Hunger hunger.org/hunger_action-month.htm in July celebration. Eau Claire Baptist, Reformation Luther and St. Mark churches came together to enjoy good entertainment, excellent food and great Action Month, bringing the opportuni - or by contacting the Rev. Jennifer fellowship. More school supplies were collected than ever before, filling up ty for churches to become more aware Vestal Moore at the Society of St. five tables for those in need. of the need that exists right in local Andrew at 800-333-4597 or communities and rise to the challenge [email protected] of feeding the hungry. The Society of St. Andrew is a The Society of St. Andrew national nonprofit hunger relief min - (Advance #801600) is providing a istry founded in 1979. It saves fresh variety of free, ready-to-use resources vegetables and fruits from going to to motivate church congregations to waste in fields and packinghouses and step out on faith to follow Jesus’ com - donates this food to critical feeding mands concerning the poor and hun - agencies for their clients. So far this gry. These resources can be used in year nearly 15 million pounds of food September or anytime during the year have been donated to agencies to raise hunger awareness and to call throughout the nation. Last year 26.5 congregations to action. million pounds of produce, saved by The resources include scripture nearly 35,000 volunteers, provided readings related to hunger, poverty almost 80 million servings to hungry and justice; five sample sermons; Americans. Wightman UMC extends communion around the globe By Elyssa Parnell others are fed. er is sometimes employed, and the regularly attends church activities. At this, Turner average household income in this Maycol lives with his grandfather and Holy Communion is celebrated by invited the con - town is $33 per month. Noa enjoys his mother and is responsible for run - Christians everywhere. It is a meal gregation to place bicycling and playing group games. ning errands and cleaning. that is conducted for the remembrance money into bas - • The next two children are Yurani Wightman members will be going of Jesus, but what does it really mean kets after they Vanessa Marin Niquinas, age 8, and on a mission trip to Colombia later to partake of the bread and the wine, had received Maycol Andres Rengifo Santacruz, this year. They will have the opportu - the body and the blood? communion. The age 5. They are both from Cali, nity to meet these children while on Recently, the Rev. Michael Turner, purpose? To Colombia. Yurani lives with her moth - their trip. This shows how amazing pastor of Wightman United Methodist expand the family One of the children er and is responsible for taking care of God truly is and what a church family Church in Prosperity, preached a ser - style meal by Wightman UMC is their animals and cleaning. She loves can accomplish when they come helping, above. mon that offered one answer to that sponsoring chil - to jump rope and play house. She also together – family style. question. His sermon, titled “Family dren around the world who were hun - Style,” began by describing family gry. Every dime was to go toward the style restaurants where everyone eats $38 per month needed to sponsor a the same dishes instead of ordering child through Compassion their own meals from the menu. International. More specifically, Turner spoke of Between the two worship services his grandmother’s table growing up at Wightman, enough money was where, no matter how many people raised to sponsor four children for a showed up on a Sunday afternoon, year, truly extending the table. there was always enough food. By Here is who the money helped: sharing, he said that his family made • Jimmy Estanislao Gonzalez sure there was enough for everyone. Montalvan is from Nicaragua and is 7 “Communion is also a family-style years old. Jimmy lives with his mother meal,” Turner said. and father, and there are two children LEESVILLE HELPS EPWORTH – A new program at Leesville United Everyone receives the same food – in his family. He enjoys soccer, vol - Methodist Church, “Shop Til You Drop,” will greatly help the children of Jesus’ blood and body, shed for them. Epworth this school year. Leesville UMC recently raised more than $800 to leyball and attends various church help Epworth Children’s Home with school needs such as field trip money, More than that, however, Communion activities. The average income in school pictures, sports uniforms and more. Eleven members participated in is a family style meal in that it should Jimmy’s area is about $50 per month. the sale on July 31 from 7 a.m. until noon, selling their treasures and bake make all Christians cognizant of those • The second child is Noa Atsou. sale items to the community. It is a passion of the members of Leesville UMC who do not have enough to eat. If Noa, age 6, is from Togo, West Africa. to be involved in the lives of the children of Epworth through participation in Communion is truly family style, then Epworth’s worship services, fall festivals, skate nights and dances. The He lives with his mother, and there are church said members look forward to adding “Shop Til You Drop” as an annu - we share what we have to make sure three children in his family. His moth - al event to help minister to the needs of the children at Epworth, as well. The South Carolina United Methodist Advocate September 2010, Page 9 Salkehatchie GUEST COMMENTARY My Salkehatchie experience By Brooke Brabham someone else, the time didn’t seem to When I arrived in Winnsboro to matter at all. attend the Salkehatchie Summer When we arrived at the site that Service Camp, I had no idea what to morning, I got my first taste of what expect. All the stories I had heard life can be like for older adults who from fellow youth and my own family don’t have enough money to take care members, who had also attended these of their house, let alone themselves. SALKEHATCHIE DONE FIVE camps all over the state of South Mr. Turner’s bedroom floor was rot - WAYS – July in South Carolina Carolina, were different. ten, and half of his ceiling had fallen means vine-ripe tomatoes, heat, I remember someone saying every in. The insulation was everywhere. I humidity – and for United couldn’t believe my eyes. He had been Methodists, the Salkehatchie Salkehatchie experience is different Summer Service Camp. This year, and no one can put into words what it sleeping on his couch for over a year Leesville UMC supported this min - is going to be like for you because we because he didn’t have the money to istry in five ways. Doug and Della all see this experience in a different fix the ceiling. Copper, Stacey Terlizzi and Matthew way. And she was right. Everyone I The house was filthy. There was Barr helped repair several homes dirt everywhere. That first day, being with the Sumter Camp. John talked to after that week had a differ - Kneece led a group with the Santee ent story to tell, a different experience, the girly girl that I was, I was trying to Camp, as he has for quite a few a different kind of awakening to what stay clean. But by lunch, I didn’t care years. The Lexington Camp worked life is like for some people. what I looked like. on homes in the Leesville area, so My grandfather, Risher Brabham, The fact that the ceiling had fallen Leesville UMC provided a cool in and that Mr. Turner’s house was place for them to enjoy lunch each took many trips over the years with day. Leesville United Methodist Men different groups of people to covered in a couple layers of dirt was served the Lexington Camp supper Nicaragua, Central America, as only the beginning of his problems. on Friday, and Leesville United Winthrop University Wesley We ended up tearing up the shingles Methodist Women sponsored two Foundation director. I went with him on his roof and replacing that, as well youth to attend camp. Above, Doug as some of the boards underneath that Copper’s group begins weather- once and then went again the summer stripping. At left, first make a mess, after he died. Neither compared to my had grown rotten from the rain. We then clean it up. Stacey Terlizzi experience at Fairfield Salkehatchie. also ended up tearing up his porch and shows how. When working in Nicaragua, I completely redoing it. assisted the dentists in the clinic, and Everywhere you walked in his even though I saw my fair share of house, the floor sunk. We raised some UEST OMMENTARY rotten teeth, it didn’t seem real to me. of the floors to fix the problem. G C I realized some time later that this was I also got a taste of what it’s like to because I hadn’t seen what had caused be a plumber. Although I was really Forced to go and the decay. I hadn’t seen the living con - just the plumbers’ assistant, I learned ditions of these people. how to put a sink in and turn on the never left At Salkehatchie, when trying to water. My group members called me choose a site in which I would spend “the plumber” for the rest of the week. By Jeff Price adult leaders and 10 or so youth can do the rest of the week working on (and These were only a few of the prob - so much in four and a half days. not to mention the rest of my life lems that needed to be fixed. Let’s just say Mr. Turner had not been able to When I was 14 years old, I had just The most amazing thing of all is thinking about), I had no idea how to care for his house in years, and we moved to South Carolina and was how much of God you see in all the start choosing. To show the group probably could have just torn it down starting a new high school, and on top youth and homeowners. With so much what they would be doing at each site, and built him a brand new house! of that, my parents signed me up for a God surrounding you, it makes you they gave us a virtual tour of all of the This was such an awakening for thing called Salkehatchie. forget about all the insignificant “prob - sites and the people who lived there. me. As soon as I saw the shape Mr. I had no clue what it was, so I start - lems” in your life. It opens your eyes While watching this, I just kept Turner’s house was in, I had to take a ed asking around and found out it was up to the hard times that your neigh - thinking to myself, “They all need minute to thank God for the house I a summer camp where we pay to bors and friends are having. help. All of these families need some - have and the way my grandmother work, out in the heat, on someone’s And it makes you realize how doing one to help them.” and I keep it. I am now much more house who we had never met. a little can make such a big difference. Site number 11 kind of jumped out thankful than I was before for the roof Needless to say, as a 14-year-old I am no carpenter, plumber, electri - at me. It was the home of an older over my head and a bed to sleep in. teenager who thought I knew every - cian or anything close to well skilled, gentleman named Mr. Turner. It This week changed my views on a thing, I did not want to go. But my but with God working through us, we seemed like someone was pushing me lot of things, but most importantly, it parents had already paid for it, so I was are able to accomplish so much in so and telling me to pick site 11, and so I made me appreciate the simple things forced to go. little time. did. in life that make it easier to live. To my surprise, after the week was To see the happiness and joy in the After that, I was hooked. Thank you, Salkehatchie, for mak - over I didn’t want to leave. I fell in homeowners’ faces and seeing God My group was so great and wel - ing me a better person. And thank you love with Salkehatchie and have only return to their lives makes it all worth coming. We had to be with our group for helping me build friendships that missed one year since. it in the end. I personally have never for almost everything, as it was a way will last forever. I have grown to love This year made my 14th at experienced God in the same way that to keep track of everyone. I gradually my Salkehatchie family and am Salkehatchie – half my life. I experience him at Salkehatchie, and I got to know some of the kids in my already counting down the days until I My experiences at Salkehatchie know that is where I am supposed to group and felt really comfortable will see them again next year. have been amazing. I look forward to be. I plan on continuing to go until when we left for the site on Monday going every year. The week is a God sends me in a different direction morning at 7 a.m. (Yes, 7 a.m.) At first Brabham, age 15, is a member of refreshing spiritual lift that ultimately or I am physical unable to go. I thought that was so early, but as the Quest, the youth ministry of St John’s makes you realize how blessed you Jeff Price attends St. Johns UMC, week dragged on and you knew you UMC in Rock Hill. are. It is simply amazing how a few Fort Mill. were getting up to do something for Page 10, September 2010 The South Carolina United Methodist Advocate Education & Youth

Greater St. Paul S.C. students learn hands-on in Harlem

youth take trip, By the Rev. Narcie Jeter United Methodist Campus Minister, learn lessons Winthrop Wesley Foundation July 17-19 was the culmina - Students from South Carolina tion of a journey begun in United Methodist Campus Ministries November with the idea of an traveled to Harlem, N.Y., May 9-15. expense-free vacation for the This is the second year that the group children of Greater St. Paul of campus ministries spent its annual United Methodist Church, service week in Harlem working at Cross. Metropolitan Community United The children went to Busch Methodist Church and staying there Gardens in Williamsburg, Va., and at Salem UMC. and then they visited Students from Clemson Wesley, Washington, D.C. Orangeburg Wesley, Francis Marion They not only enjoyed them - Wesley, Lander Wesley, Methodist selves, they learned a lot about Student Network of Columbia Wesley the history of the U.S., as well and Winthrop Wesley participated in as life lessons such as goal set - A small group visits the National Jazz Museum during campus ministries’ annual this experience. service week. ting, hard work, diligence, trust - This year’s week focused again on worthiness – and that faith plus race and urban poverty, but even more country or place,” Lollis said. “Other For me, the strangeness of our sur - work does equal success. specifically on issues like gentrification cultures offer incredible insights, and roundings hit home during the bus tour Ministry organizers raised and how that relates to particular cul - we can sometimes limit ourselves that our group took on Thursday night. money for the trip by selling tural contexts. when we only see the world around us We were shown so many different sec - everything from candied apples Jon Hoin from Winthrop Wesley from one point of view.” tions of the city, and for much of the to hot dogs to T-shirts. Many of liked digging deeper into the issues. Not only did students learn a lot time, our tour guide implored us to the fundraisers were all profit “I loved Harlem this year,” Hoin from the seminars, but also from their marvel at the diversity around us. A and no cost. said. “The seminar program was fan - work in Harlem at Metropolitan few times he even voiced his own So much was raised that a tastic. We got to look at not only the Community UMC. amazement (and obvious pride) that so donation of two computers was societal problems with poverty and Clement Twumasi De AY-benzino many diverse groups could coexist made to the church. homelessness, but we also got a look at from the Orangeburg Wesley was within one area. different aspects of the culture that struck by something he experienced at While I agreed with him to an make up Harlem. That in turn brought the church. extent, I also couldn’t help but notice out a sense of harmony in our groups “One thing that challenged me most that the groups had been segregated (or SMC freshmen as we put the pieces together. It was was the number of people who showed had segregated themselves) into neigh - provide service just an awesome experience that I am up for the Wednesday worship at the borhoods such as China Town and glad to have taken part in.” Metropolitan United Methodist Little Italy. Even in such close proxim - to Spartanburg The educational seminar portion of Church,” he said. “The building was ity, it seems that the natural human ten - the week was led by the United completely full and everybody was dency toward fearing those different community Methodist Seminar Program at the excited to be part of the worship. In than oneself had taken over. SPARTANBURG – Nearly 500 Church Center Building across the spite of the busy city life, these people Perhaps the most striking commen - freshmen from Spartanburg street from the United Nations. Each leave everything else to come and wor - tary on New York came toward the Methodist College spread out school broke into small groups with ship every Wednesday. They encour - end of our tour, again from our guide. across Spartanburg County on other schools and were able to not only aged me to never let being busy keep As we were nearing our last stop, he Saturday, Aug. 21, as part of the have workshops on these topics but me from worshiping God.” turned and pointed out a homeless college’s 10th annual Freshmen also go on site visits to get a greater Whether through worship, site vis - shelter, next to which a new art gallery Day of Service. sense of the issues. its, service or seminar workshops, stu - had opened – seemingly in blind defi - The FDOS is a community Leanna Greenwood from Winthrop dents and campus ministers were able ance of the poverty right next door. outreach event held each fall dur - Wesley also was moved by some of to learn a great deal about the city and In that moment it occurred to me ing the first weekend freshmen the site visits. were also challenged to take this that New York City functions as a dis - are on campus, in which all “The highlight of the Harlem trip knowledge back with them so that they tilled snapshot of humanity, simultane - freshmen are required to partici - for me was meeting with the students may act on it. ously exposing the failings of the pate. The event is designed to at Friends of Island Academy,” she The Rev. Ricky Howell, campus church and presenting us as Christians give incoming students an oppor - said. “Instead of just talking about the minister at Francis Marion Wesley, with an essential challenge that must tunity to learn more about and incarceration of urban youth, we got to said the thing that struck him most be addressed if we hope to represent give back to the Spartanburg meet with and talk to some of the about encountering New York for the Christ faithfully in our broken world. community. youth directly affected. I learned that first time was the incredible diversity How often have we segregated our - Students set out early Saturday many of the young people ... on Rikers coupled with very tangible division, all selves from those around us who are to 21 project sites around Island are there for petty crimes, such compacted together. different, even in our supposedly tight- Spartanburg County, in groups of as spitting on the sidewalk or jumping “The first day we were in service knit communities? Have we not also approximately 20-25. Each group the metro turnstile. The criminal justice our group spent the majority of the day become so wrapped up in our own was led by a faculty or staff focus has been on punishment for outside scraping and painting the fence selves and our relative comforts that member and a number of Pioneer crime, but is slowly working its way at Metropolitan Community UMC,” we have become oblivious to those Peers, sophomores who work toward rehabilitation.” Howell said. “While we were working who are in desperate need around us? throughout the year with campus Not just the students but also the people walked past us on a regular Even within our Wesley groups, many activities and programming. campus ministers learned a great deal. basis, and I was a bit surprised to see of which celebrate ethnic and denomi - SMC president Dr. Colleen The Rev. Dean Lollis, campus min - the range of economic classes repre - national diversity, have we truly Keith assisted with projects. ister at Lander Wesley, said the trip sented. It boggled my mind to see a bridged the gaps that divide us? On Aug. 25, SMC began its showed him we need to have a greater person obviously dressed for work, a The answers to these questions 100th academic year of providing appreciation of others and our different mother pushing a stroller and a home - might not be pleasant, but we must quality education to students in a cultures. less person rooting through a trash can answer them if we ever hope to fully Christian environment. “In the Christian sense, we are part all within 10 feet of each other – and exist in Christian community as God of a much larger kingdom than a single all seemingly oblivious to each other.” intended. The South Carolina United Methodist Advocate September 2010, Page 11 Education & Youth Pray 40 kicks off On Aug. 23, South Carolina cial thanks to United Methodist United Methodists began a 40-day Communications. movement to pray for the next gener - The prayers have been written by ation of Christian leaders as they campus ministers, college students, head to college and university cam - bishops, authors, pastors and other puses. leaders. Collectively, they express a Called Pray 40, the effort is a part - heart for God to inspire, challenge nership between College Union, The and transform the lives of college Upper Room, UM General Board of campuses and individual students. Higher Education and Ministry, For more information about the Foundation for Evangelism, with spe - prayer event, visit www.Pray40.com.

HaLeigh Small and other Columbia College students pray that God inspires, challenges and transforms the lives of college students like herself.

Worship leader Janelle Kolk sings “Blessed Be Your Name” as dozens of Taylar Frierson claps along to “You Columbia College students join in. Never Let Go .” (Photos by Jessica Connor) At right, Columbia College Chaplain and Director of Church Relations Roy Mitchell gives a Martha Molina Sanchez meditation on (left) bows her head in following one’s prayer. bliss. What’s your talent, youth? Revolution 2011 organizers are look - submissions to Doris Seals at the above ing for T-shirt designs and for talented address. If your group cannot submit a youth groups to perform during the video, please contact event organizers weekend event. at itsarevolution2011 @gmail.com so Youth groups are invited to design a arrangements to see the group in person T-shirt to be sold before and during the can be made. The selected groups will February event. The winning group perform twice that weekend during A will be responsible for ordering, mar - and B sessions. keting and selling T-shirts. All proceeds All videos must be postmarked by will go to the winning youth group – Oct. 15. minus a 10 percent tithe to the S.C. Set for Feb. 11-13 at the Columbia Conference Youth Service Fund. Metropolitan Convention Center, Designs must be postmarked by Oct. Revolution 2011 is a weekend retreat 15 and can be mailed to Doris Seals, for youth groups from all over the state. FRIENDLY COMPETITION – Cannon’s Campground United Methodist Church celebrated vacation Bible school last month with a theme of “Galactic Blast.” 4908 Colonial Drive, Columbia, SC Olu Brown, Impact Church in Atlanta, The girls and boys had a competition every night to see who could raise the 29203 or e-mailed to itsarevolu will be the speaker. The Robbie Seay most money for Epworth Children’s Home. The boys started out ahead for [email protected]. Band will play. For more information, the first two nights, but the girls came around and defeated them. More than Also, youth groups willing to share go to www.umcsc.org/youth or e-mail $850 was raised for Epworth. (Photo special to the Advocate ) their talent are invited to send video [email protected] CC scholarship honors family legacy, provides opportunity COLUMBIA – Columbia College has the college, which include Corley’s arship with a gift that includes pro - Carolina, the first preference for established a new endowed scholar - parents, the late Rev. and Mrs. J. R. ceeds from her parents’ estate. awarding this scholarship will be ship giving preference to children of Dennis. Rev. Dennis was a Methodist In addition, their daughter, given to children of ministers wanting ministers. minister who traveled the state with Godowns, contributed to establish the to attend Columbia The Barbara Dennis Corley ’49 and the college’s longest serving president, scholarship endowment. Godowns College. Otherwise, any student who Denise Corley Godowns ’73 Endowed the Rev. R. Wright Spears, represent - teaches special education at Alief demonstrates financial need will be Scholarship is named for a mother and ing the work of the S.C. Conference Independent School in Houston. eligible to apply for this scholarship. daughter who both graduated from and Columbia College. Because Rev. Dennis and Rev. Columbia College is a private liber - Columbia College. The scholarship Corley and her husband, the Rev. Corley served in roles as pastors of al arts women’s college related to the represents deep family connections to G. Baylis Corley, endowed this schol - local churches throughout South United Methodist Church. Page 12, September 2010 The South Carolina United Methodist Advocate A bunch of

The Cap & The Collar, comprising Rabbi Yossi Liebowitz (left) and Spartanburg The Shepherd’s Center Line Dancers – with one member who is 90 years old and District Superintendent Paul Harmon, used whistles, guitars, a tambourine and still going strong – had the crowd dancing in its seats to several numbers. (Photos their harmonizing voices to keep the crowd laughing and clapping along. by Jessica Connor) Older adult fun day inspires similar events across S.C. By Jessica Connor Lynda Hurteau, a member of Morningside Baptist, Spartanburg, said SPARTANBURG – Nearly 400 older she was especially excited to meet adults swarmed the grounds of St. older people from many different James United Methodist Church Aug. churches and denominations, all hav - 11 for the seventh annual Spartanburg ing fun. District Yah-Yah Fun Day. “You get to see what you are capa - They came armed for a day of levity ble of as you age,” she said. and fellowship featuring entertainment That kind of enthusiasm about aging ranging from a 90-year-old line dancer, is exactly what other districts, particu - to three singers with a combined age larly the Columbia district, are hoping of 240, to a rabbi strumming chords to generate. A move is on to start other alongside a United Methodist district Yah-Yah-type events across the state. superintendent. Attendees from 93 The Columbia district will launch its churches and 11 denominations began first SALT event (Seasoned Adults lining up for the sold-out event as early Live/Laugh/Love Together) Nov. 4. as 7:45 a.m. in order to get the best The Hatcher Sisters (from left, Gloria White, Dorcas Holman and Annie Roper) The Rev. Mary Green Kearse, associ - seat. started singing while doing after-dinner dishes as children. ate pastor at Shandon UMC, “It’s unreal,” said Ira Snead, one of Liebowitz, used whis - Columbia, is one of the organizers of the event’s founders. “We’ve got to tles, guitars, a tam - SALT, and she and her team were find a bigger place!” bourine and their harmo - inspired by the success of Yah-Yah – The day started with a musical pre- nizing voices to keep the how much fun she’d heard it was, lude by Fran Tillotson and Etta crowd laughing and how many people attended, how it “ clapping along. The duo Jenkins, a trombone processional, a It all just shows you the old folks are reached older adults across denomina - welcome by the Rev. Will Malambri of not dead yet. We can still move. had the crowd rolling tions. She traveled to Spartanburg this St. James UMC, a devotional by with satirical and often year specifically to get ideas for the Earline Powell of United Methodist poignant songs about November inaugural SALT. Women History and Archives, and Welborn Hilton, everything from taking “There’s only one Yah-Yah,” Kearse introductions by Snead. Silver Hill Memorial UMC blame to the American said. “We don’t want to copy them, Then the real fun began. dream to hate crimes to have the same program, but we are Entertainment from the Sparkle City banning hugs. And even copying the idea.” Red Hatters and the Shepherd’s Center their between-songs Kearse said the Older Adult Council Line Dancers had the crowd dancing banter prompted hilarity. is urging other districts to do the same. in its seats. Next, The Hatcher Sisters, A few snippets: Watching the hordes line up for a a trio of siblings who started singing and the minister who bro”ught the most “There’s a Methodist to my mad - post-event barbecue lunch, Yah-Yah while doing after-dinner dishes as chil - members (Grace UMC, Union, with ness, and there he is.” – Liebowitz organizer Carolyn Turner’s eyes dren, performed campy tunes like 13). “Ah, just a bunch of yah-yahs.” – gleamed at the idea of similar “fun “Pistol Packin’ Mama,” “It’s a Sin to Jan Harmon, wife of Spartanburg Harmon days.” “Just imagine this going on all Tell a Lie” and “Stand By Your Man.” District Superintendent Paul Harmon, “The DS or the BS?” – Liebowitz over the state,” she said, grinning. With an average age among them of and their daughter, Leslie Hendon, Their performance capped a day Organizer Bernice Lewis agreed. 80, the sisters (Gloria White, Annie sang a collection of ballads for the that seemed to inspire and energize “I think it’s a great idea to get the Roper and Dorcas Holman) donned crowd: “What About Love,” “They attendees about their possibilities. older adults all over the district to boas, false teeth, cowboy hats, bandan - Can’t Take That Away From Me” and “The sing-along, the dancing, it all come together and share,” Lewis said. nas and big satin bows as they sang the more. Therlon Joyner and Miriam just shows you the old folks are not “We started this in 2004, and our atten - crowd toward sidesplitting laughter Turner followed, with a clap-worthy dead yet. We can still move,” said dance continues to grow. Everyone’s and a standing ovation. songfest of hymns leading right into Welborn Hilton, of Silver Hill excited, and that’s the part we’re so Bernice Lewis gave out awards for the major musical act of the day: The Memorial UMC, Spartanburg. “A lot thankful to God for, that our older feats such as who traveled the farthest Cap & The Collar. of people think older people just sit adults are getting to be a part of this.” distance (Columbia district), the oldest The Cap & The Collar, comprising around, but they don’t. They are very, For more on the Nov. 4 SALT event attendee (Ezell Jackson at age 100) Paul Harmon and Rabbi Yossi very active people.” in Columbia, call 803-356-8383. The South Carolina United Methodist Advocate September 2010, Page 13 Yah-Y ahs

Doug Pye (left) and Wick Doll get their jazz on, leading a processional of line dancers and red hatters into the St. James sanctuary to kick off Yah-Yah festivities.

Sylvia Staley shows her spirit during the processional.

The Bethlehem Center Line Dancers wow the crowd with their fancy footwork. From left are Beatrice Hughes, Mary Brewton and Bernice Lewis.

Flo Johnson (left), of Platt Springs UMC, West Columbia, and Happy Lou Canterbury and other Sparkle City Henry, of Washington Street UMC, Red Hatters get the audience ener - Columbia, enjoy the entertainment. gized.

Ezell Jackson, age 100, took home an award for being the oldest person attend - ing Yah-Yah Fun Day. “It’s been a treat,” said Jackson, who is a member of Mount Moriah Baptist in Spartanburg and has eight grandchildren and four great-grands.

Therlon Joyner leads a clap- worthy songfest of hymns. Page 14, September 2010 The South Carolina United Methodist Advocate Health & Fitness UMC basketball tourney set for Jan. 28-30 Dribblers and hoop-shooters, mark your calendars for the 2011 S.C. United Methodist Conference Youth Basketball Tournament. Set for Jan. 28-30, 2011, the host church will be Epworth Children’s Home, Columbia. Every team will become a “Netraiser Team,” as the tournament will again join hands with the General Church’s global initia - tive, Imagine: No Malaria. For more information on how to play, worship and enjoy sportsman - ship in Christian fellowship, visit www.scmethodistbasketball.org

Philadelphia UMC recently participated in the 24 Hours of Booty charity ride. In front from left are Tim Nissen, Amy Cooley, Lauren Hundley, Luann Hundley and Lee Hundley. In back from left are Todd Wilkes, Kevin Cooley, Lee Bowers, Walt Bullard, Seth Warner and Rick Warner. Not pictured but participating: Bryan Mikels and Dave Cain. Phila. UMC rides in ‘24 Hours of Booty’ Philadelphia United Methodist event boasted 1,200 riders and more Hundley, is a cancer survivor, hav - Church, Fort Mill, formed a bike than $1 million in donations. ing dealt with prostate cancer in the team to participate in the 24 Hours This was Philadelphia UMC’s past year. of Booty charity ride on July 30-31 second year to participate and the Participants donned a separate in Charlotte, N.C. first for most of its riders. The team jersey signed by church members in The event is a part of the Lance raised $4,300 in donations from honor and in memory of persons Armstrong Foundation, which rais - church and friends and logged 890 who have or have had the disease. es money for cancer research and miles over the two-day event. That jersey was worn on Friday lifestyle management. This year’s One of Philadelphia’s riders, Lee evening’s ride.

To Your Health

By the Rev. Sandra King contracts the abdominal muscles and works the DUODENUM: Couple in jeans I just finished watching a news segment where shoulders, leaving muscles more relaxed. ENEMA: Not a friend researchers have shown scientifically that laugh - Laughter even provides a good workout for the FALSE LABOR: Pretending to work ter really is the best medicine. heart. GENES: Blue denim There are groups popping up around the coun - Other health benefits of laughter include lower HERNIA: She is close by try that offer “laugh therapy” where people meet blood pressure, reduced production of stress hor - LABOR PAIN: Hurt at work for an hour and just laugh. There is a comedy mones like cortisol and epinephrine, increased LACTOSE: Person without digits on the foot club somewhere that offers free admission to any - muscle flexion and boosting your immune sys - LYMPH: Walk unsteadily one with a pink slip stating they have been laid tem. MICROBES: Small dressing gowns off or let go from their jobs. Those unemployed Enjoy, and don’t be afraid to laugh out loud. PROTEIN: In favor of teens patrons who come to the comedy club attest to Laughter is contagious! PUS: Small cat the fact that laughter makes them feel better, and Medical definitions: RED BLOOD COUNT – Dracula allows them to focus on something other than ANTIBODY: Against everyone SECRETION: Hiding anything their problems – if only for a little while. BENIGN: What you be after you be eight SERUM: Sailors’ drink So in celebration of this new trend toward BOWEL: Letters like A, E, I, O, U SUBCUTANEOUS: Not cute enough medicinal laughter, I offer the following medical CAT SCAN: Searching for lost kitty TABLET: Small table definitions that come from the Good, Clean Fun CHRONIC: Neck of a crow TUMOR: Extra pair and Laughs (GCFL) website. If you get a laugh COMA: Punctuation mark ULTRASOUND: Radical noise out of them, you will release more feel-good hor - CORTISONE: Area around local courthouse mones called endorphins, which really will make CYST: Short for sister King serves as minister at Leesville United you feel better. DIAGNOSIS: Person with a slanted nose Methodist Church in Leesville. She is a registered A good belly laugh exercises the diaphragm, DISLOCATION: In this place nurse with a master’s degree in health nursing. The South Carolina United Methodist Advocate September 2010, Page 15 Green Theology

Bethel UMC to hold green festival Sept. 25 Congregation Energy COLUMBIA – Six congregations in cans, plastic and small appliances Conservation the North Trenholm Road area are by Richland County. Education for Measures collaborating on a project that youth (in their outdoor chapel) encourages sustainable living and about recycling. Document shred - HVAC – Heating, Ventilating, building practices. ding. and Air Conditioning Bethel United Methodist Church, The next day, Sunday, Sept. 26, along with Beth Shalom Synagogue, there will be a farmers’ market at • Implement consistent use of Forest Lake Presbyterian, North Forest Lake Presbyterian sponsored matching programmable T- Trenholm Baptist, St. Michael and by Tree of Life from 12:30 to 4 p.m. stats. All Angels’ Episcopal and Tree of Work will continue on the Habitat • Discontinue the use of the Life Congregation are planning the house. automatic mode. Forest Acres Green Festival. This festival provides an opportu - • Have at least two members of The festival will be held nity for these six congregations to the congregation responsible Saturday, Sept. 25, from 10 a.m. to demonstrate to the community their for understanding and opti - 4 p.m. at three locations: will perform. Forest Acres restau - commitment to conserving mizing the use of the pro - 1. Forest Lake Presbyterian rants will be selling food. resources by building and remodel - grammable T-stats. Church – Habitat for Humanity will 2. North Trenholm Baptist ing in a responsible way and by • Strict adherence and adjust - construct an EarthCraft certified Church – Craft activities for chil - adopting sustainable living prac - ment to scheduled or unsched - house in the parking lot, using ener - dren using materials from nature tices. uled areas. gy-saving materials and appliances. and recycled materials. Fun on All are welcome to attend the fes - • By committee, determine a Vendors who sell environmentally inflatables such as bungee runs, tival with family and friends and suitable override timeout peri - friendly building supplies will bounce houses, etc. Kid friendly show support. od for each zone/room. exhibit. Environmental organiza - food will be available from Forest To find out how you can help, • Disable or increase offset tions will share their expertise about Acres restaurants. call Bethel UMC at 803-787-3058, parameter of emergency heat sustainable living. Jewelry and 3. St. Michael and All Angels’ e-mail bethelunitedmeth@bell - for each unit. crafts will be available for purchase. Episcopal Church – Recycling of south.net or visit www.bethelcolum – Courtesy of S.C. Energy Office Musical groups from local schools tires, electronic equipment, paper, bia.com. SUMMIT: Sept. 23-25 event to ‘rekindle the flame’ From Page 1 It was 1988 before South Carolina has been designed with the laity in Grooms, chair of the Committee on into later this month at the inaugural got its first African-American bishop, mind in the hopes that they can come Ethnic Local Church Concerns. Summit on the Black Church. Joseph Bethea. after work on Friday and then all day “This event will provide the tools Set for Sept. 23-25 at the Radisson “Methodism has had a checkered Saturday. and resources to strengthen the Hotel, Columbia, the summit fea - history in race relations,” Nelson It starts Thursday afternoon with a African-American churches in our tures three days of workshops and said. “It’s gotten better. But the very pastor-focused plenary led by the conference in critical areas to make worship designed to strengthen this question about whether we even Rev. Vance Ross, deputy general sec - vital, vibrant disciple-making con - ministry and “rekindle the flame” for need a plan to strengthen the black retary for the UM General Board of gregations.” making disciples. church or an African-American con - Discipleship. On Thursday night, Mitchell said churches will learn Nelson said there are embers that gregational specialist means there are Bishop Linda Lee, resident bishop of at the summit not to be like each exist in every congregation. people who don’t understand the his - the Wisconsin Annual Conference, other, but rather to learn from each “The winds of the Holy Spirit are tory, the significance, the role of the will lead worship. President of the other, with a little something for fanning the flames and igniting the black church in strengthening The UM General Commission on everybody. She hopes people will passion of every congregation so United Methodist Church.” Religion and Race, Lee has a reputa - look at their communities for ways they can be places of transforma - And the black church has a huge tion as a conferencewide bridge they can reach out and revitalize. tion,” he said. role in United Methodism, particular - builder and pioneer. “The church needs to be more out - But flames can dwindle. Yeast can ly in South Carolina. This state Friday daytime plenaries will be side of the four walls of the church,” settle. And congregations can lose boasts the largest numbers of black led by Ross; Dr. Fred Allen, national Mitchell said. “I tell people the their vitality, become a place where churches and members in the U.S.: director of Strengthening the Black church is like a restaurant. Some disciples are no longer made, where 27 percent of churches (276 black Church for the 21st Century; the people like seafood; some people transformations no longer occur. churches of the 1,026 total in S.C.) Rev. Rusty Taylor, S.C. Conference like Chinese. But the core is that it’s The Summit on the Black Church and 20 percent of members (48,626 director of congregational develop - all food, and I look at it like it’s spir - hopes to help churches regain that black members of the 239,747 total). ment; Dr. George Ashford Jr., pastor itual food.” vitality. “We just want to strengthen. It’s of new-church-start Journey UMC; As of press time, organizers said A resource of the S.C. Conference, not just about black and white. In and Dr. Carl Arrington, director for registration is going well with atten - the summit aims to help increase the bringing together and celebrating African-American Ministries, dees from this state and elsewhere in number of vital congregations in this particularity, we are strengthening Southeastern Jurisdiction at Lake the southeast. state, as well as reverse the member - our life together as a church.” Junaluska. “We hope it will be a place of ship decline the church is seeing of The Rev. Cathy Mitchell, senior On Friday night, Lee will keynote holy transformation, where people late. It is an opportunity to celebrate pastor at St. James UMC, Sumter, a celebratory banquet. come and then take seeds back to the presence, uniqueness and history agreed. On Saturday morning, attendees their church, not a pleasant event of the black church. “I think sometimes we keep doing will participate in workshops explor - where people go away saying, ‘Now, It’s also very necessary, Nelson the same thing because that’s what ing the eight characteristics found in wasn’t this nice?’” Nelson said. “It’s said. we’ve always done,” Mitchell said. vital congregations. And at noon, about transformation. Race relations in the church have “But for me, I look at my communi - S.C. Bishop Mary Virginia Taylor “If we can harness that energy, we come a long way since the black and ty. My church’s strength is different will lead a closing worship featuring can become congregations that white conferences united in 1972. from another church’s strength. Each a mass choir from the five African- explode with possibilities.” Significant progress has been made should use their spiritual gifts to American churches in the Columbia Registration will be open through in a short time, including many grow and make disciples.” district. the day of the event, and attendees cross-racial appointments, Nelson The summit’s three days are all “There has been a thirst among lay can sign up at the door or call in said. But the reality is that it’s been designed to tie into the theme and clergy for an event of this nature advance: 803-786-9486. Cost for the less than 40 years since that uniting. “Rekindling the Flame,” and timing for some time,” said Charlotte A. summit is $75. Page 16, September 2010 The South Carolina United Methodist Advocate Global News

Church AIDS work and settings have found ways to grow makes a difference and thrive. DALLAS (UMNS) – United Those are the findings of two stud - Methodist support helps care for ies by independent researchers AIDS patients and prevent the spread released this week by the denomina - of the disease in 33 countries. tion’s Call to Action Steering Team. However, donations to the denomina - The reports included an “Operational tion’s Global AIDS Fund have plum - Assessment of the Connectional meted in recent years. Church leaders Church” and a “Congregational hope to rejuvenate denominational Vitality” overview. interest in HIV/AIDS mission work The 16-member Call to Action with the church’s third international Steering Team, which includes clergy conference on the subject. “Lighten and laity, will present recommenda - the Burden III” is set for Oct. 14-16 tions based on the studies to the in Dallas. denomination’s Council of Bishops and Connectional Table in November. Church grapples Women clergy gathering with sexual ethics CHICAGO (UMNS) – Church mem - in Philippines bers dealing with sexual misconduct TARLAC CITY, Philippines (UMNS) often contact the United Methodist OUT-OF-STATE SURPISE – The Rev. Linda Dunn, Gilbert UMC, Gilbert, spent a – Plans are under way for the first Commission on the Status and Role mission week at Henderson Settlement, Frakes, Ky. (part of Red Bird Mission national clergywomen’s gathering in Conference) and noticed a mural in the dormitory. “I was so proud when I read that the Philippines. Organizers plan to of Women in search of help. So it was provided by Camp Creek UMC in Lancaster, S.C.!” Dunn said. church leaders can better prevent and use the event to gather information address the problem, the commission have died and 25,000 are stranded invite them out for a drink. Several about issues facing clergywomen and has scheduled a churchwide training without food or water. According to churches have adapted Theology on determine how many women clergy opportunity on sexual ethics next International Disaster Response exec - Tap, an idea started about 30 years are in the country. The gathering is year; it is titled “Do No Harm.” utive Melissa Crutchfield, “We are ago by the Catholic Archdiocese of planned for Oct. 5-11, 2011, at a site preparing an initial grant to assist in Chicago. Monthly meetings are held not yet chosen. The theme will be UM aid worker relief efforts and expect to respond in bars or restaurants. “Clergywomen: Lift up ... Level Out ... and Lead On!” killed in Afghanistan with more support as the damage is assessed and the needs are under - Bishop Dew, social justice NEW YORK (UMNS) – Daniel Terry Growth in Africa outpaces spent 40 years of his life working as a stood.” advocate, dies at 76 volunteer with those most in need in UMCOR’s top executive, Cynthia ELK GROVE, Calif. (UMNS) – decline in U.S. Afghanistan. The 64-year-old had a Harvey, said, “We are praying for the Retired United Methodist Bishop NEW YORK (UMNS) – The 2010 deep understanding of the Afghan cul - people who have lost loved ones, are William W. Dew Jr., a passionate wit - State of the Church Report tells ture. So it came as a shock when lead - left without homes and livelihoods, ness for social justice, died July 14 at United Methodists something they are ers of the United Methodist General and for those who are trapped and his home in Elk Grove, Calif. He was already painfully aware of – U.S. Board of Global Ministries, which has waiting for food and clean water. 76. The denomination’s Western membership is continuing its long supported Terry for 30 years, learned UMCOR is committed to addressing Jurisdiction elected Dew to the epis - decline even as the denomination that he was among the 10 aid workers their needs and especially reaching copacy in 1988. He served the expands internationally. In the decade killed Aug. 5 in a remote northeast out to those who are most vulnerable.” Portland Area, comprising the between 1998 and 2008, overall section of the country. The Taliban Support UMCOR’s response with a Oregon-Idaho Annual Conference and membership grew by 14 percent for claimed responsibility for the mur - gift to International Disaster Alaska Missionary Conference, until those who come into membership by ders. Response, UMCOR Advance 1996. He then served as bishop of the profession of faith and 27 percent for #982450, http://secure.gbgm- Phoenix Area until 2004 retirement. baptized members. At the end of Global event showcases umc.org/donations/umcor/donate.cfm 2008, the church had approximately ?code=982450&id=3019041. UM higher education 11 million professing members and an young leaders additional 2.5 million baptized mem - guidebook available BERLIN (UMNS) – The 2010 Global UMCOR assists bers in Africa, Europe, the United Young People’s Convocation and NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UMNS) – A States and the Philippines. But U.S. Legislative Assembly brought togeth - rehab efforts in Haiti new guidebook to the 121 United PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti (UMNS) – membership has declined every year er some 350 young leaders from Methodist-related schools, colleges, since The United Methodist Church around the world and created unity The United Methodist Committee on universities and theological institu - Relief, the church’s relief agency, is was formed in 1968 and dropped by through the sharing of cultures. The tions is available. The guide is aimed nearly 590,000 from 1998 to 2008. youth and young adult participants helping Grace Children’s Hospital at helping high school students and from more than two dozen countries build a rehabilitation infrastructure others easily compare tuition, degrees also approved legislation that will be that will provide both immediate care offered and possible financial aid. Pension initiative hits presented to the 2012 General and the foundation for a long-term “The Guidebook of United $20 million goal Conference, the denomination’s top program to meet the rehabilitation Methodist-Related Schools, Colleges, EVANSTON, Ill. (UMNS) – After 40 legislative body. needs of adults and children, includ - Universities and Theological years of ministry in Zimbabwe, the ing earthquake survivors, in Port-au- Schools,” which costs $5, can be Rev. Lovemore Nyanungo must rely Prince and surrounding areas. ordered at www.cokesbury.com . on help from his children to make United Methodists aid ends meet. The United Methodist Pakistan flood victims Theology Pubs Church’s Central Conference Pension NEW YORK (UMNS) – United mix faith, fellowship Call to Action offers signs Initiative has reached its initial Methodists are making plans to assist LIVERMORE, N.Y. (UMNS) – Take of crisis and hope fundraising goal of $20 million to those displaced by the worst floodwa - one part God, one part theological NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UMNS) – First, help provide for retired pastors like ters to hit Pakistan in 80 years. questions and one part food and drink. the bad news: The United Methodist Nyanungo and their surviving spous - The United Methodist Committee Stir gently; then pour a way to reach Church needs to change its operations es. The UM Board of Pensions and on Relief is coordinating with four young adults outside the church walls. denomination-wide to address finan - Health Benefits will invest the money. partners — Church World Service, United Methodist churches from cial challenges and be more relevant The earnings will pay pensions for Muslim Aid, Global Medic and the Georgia to Wisconsin are finding one in its ministry around the globe. Then, about 1,200 retired clergy and 1,300 Church of Pakistan — to support way to draw people into conversa - the good news: Despite these chal - surviving spouses in 62 annual con - relief efforts. More than 1,000 people tions about God and Scripture is to lenges, many churches of varied sizes ferences in Africa, Asia and Europe. The South Carolina United Methodist Advocate September 2010, Page 17 HISPANIC: New West Metro ministry launched July 1 From Page 1 They don’t offer a worship service go to a physician because I don’t have yet, but Sutton does frequent visita - health insurance because I don’t have tions in people’s homes. the documents.’” “You meet everyone in the family, Thanks to the West Metro Hispanic sit down, talk with them, talk about Ministry, some of these people have their needs. A lot of the times, those new hope. visits become worship,” Sutton said. On July 1, the West Metro Hispanic But right now, she knows her “con - Ministry launched, with Sutton as pas - gregation” is more concerned about tor. Culminating nearly two years of physical needs than spiritual needs. hard work, research and resource- With constant fear, little money, lack assessment, the ministry comprises six of language skills and inadequate pro - United Methodist churches in a five- visions, she said many of the mile radius in the Columbia District: Hispanics cannot think of anything Brookland, Cayce, Mount Hebron, beyond bread, water and shelter. Platt Springs, Shiloh and Trinity. “You have to give them food before The ministry hopes to help area you can get to the Bible,” she said. Hispanics in three ways – through Formation of the ministry comes as works of social justice (immigration debate over immigration reform con - reform, health fairs, advocacy), At an August health fair at Mount Hebron UMC, the Rev. Emily Scales Sutton (back tinues its slow boil. As of the empowerment (English classes, job right) works with Missy Kelley and M.C. Smith to greet Hispanic neighbors, collect Advocate’s press time, late August, prayer requests and share information about the new West Metro Hispanic Ministry. resources) and through spiritual needs Arizona Gov. Jan Brewer had just (Sunday school, worship). But the time and effort has been Researchers at the University of signed the nation’s toughest bill on Funding comes from the six West worth it. Many of the churches feel South Carolina’s Consortium for illegal immigration into law despite Metro churches, tithing from new they are thriving and truly reaching Latino Immigration Studies estimate heavy criticism from President Barack members of the ministry, conference their community in a relevant way. this state’s Hispanic population at Obama. In S.C., a coalition rallied at allocations and other donations. Brum recounts a story of a non- about 450,000. Census data indicates the State House in early August to “It’s about how we show mercy to Hispanic parishioner who previously the state’s Hispanics increased more advocate crackdown on illegal immi - them,” said Sutton, who is fluent in had not encountered many Hispanics. than 460 percent from 1990 to 2007. grants. Fear is rampant, Sutton said. Spanish and spent time in Central When asked to serve refreshments The West Metro Hispanic Ministry Still, no matter one’s political posi - America immersed in the culture. “We during an English language class at is one of two new church starts in the tion on immigration reform, she are all human beings. We are all chil - the church, she participated. state so far. The other, Esperanza knows when people remember Jesus’ dren of God. We are all the same.” “After, she said to me, ‘They are Mission Congregation in Greenville, commandment to love thy neighbor, Seeds for the ministry started a few people like us.’ I understood what she started in 2009. A Hispanic congrega - the right behavior prevails. Regardless years ago, when West Metro churches meant,” Brum said. “She was not tion in the Charleston area is being of why they are here, they are here, realized their neighborhoods were being racist. It’s just that all she under - explored for the future. and it is our Christian duty to love changing and they weren’t able to out - stood about Hispanics was what she’d Right now, Sutton said, West Metro them, she said. reach effectively. Between the lan - learned from the media. Now they is focusing on relationship-building – “In the Hispanic culture, we call it guage barrier and cultural differences, were real. It’s very powerful.” reaching out, offering services such as hermanos y hermanas en Christo – the “old ways” weren’t working. As the Hispanic population grows, English classes and an August health brothers and sisters in Christ,” she “I saw lots of trailer parks, poor this ministry is becoming more than fair at Mount Hebron UMC, hosting said. “We are all brothers and sisters, houses, 11 people in the same house, relevant. It’s essential, Sutton said. an immigration forum in October and all children of God. We have to love poor cars,” said S.C. Conference According to U.S. Census esti - presenting Las Posadas, a Christmas our neighbor enough to say, ‘We know Hispanic Coordinator Sonia Brum. mates, S.C. immigrant numbers grew carol-type event during the holidays. you made a wrong decision perhaps in Statistics from local schools con - faster than anywhere in the U.S. Outreach with Hispanic children is coming here (illegally), but we love firmed what she had suspected: low- between 2006 and 2007, with especially vital, partly because chil - you enough to help you through your income Hispanic families were set - strongest growth in Greenville/ dren are the future of the church, and hardship.’” tling in the area in droves. And they Spartanburg, Columbia, Charleston, partly because it’s a guaranteed way to For more on this ministry: 803-445- weren’t being adequately served by Myrtle Beach and Hilton Head Island. mesh with the family-oriented culture. 9103 or [email protected]. local churches. Brum got to work, getting approval from the district superintendent to establish focus groups and a task force, all in the spirit of reaching out to the Hispanic community, assessing their needs and determining the right way to meet them. And West Metro Hispanic Ministry was born. Much of the work was a mind-shift, Brum said. In the Hispanic culture, church is much like a big party, with lots of fellowship. “Working with Hispanics is about personal relationships,” Brum said. “They come because they want to meet friends, worship, do something. They come and hang out. If you offer that environment, then it works.” But you have to make an effort to get them there, Brum said: Go to them. Bring them. “It’s not just about inviting them,” she said. Sutton agreed: “You have to invest your time, give a piece of yourself.” Page 18, September 2010 The South Carolina United Methodist Advocate Upcoming Events September Heritage Month October Observance

Sept. 3-4 – Smoky Mountain Folk Sept. 18 – Stop No. 5 for the S.C. Oct. 3 – World Communion Sunday Oct. 17 – Laity Sunday Festival, Lake Junaluska, N.C. Conference Ministers’ Spouses’ www.lakejunaluska.com journey Oct. 3 – Anderson District Lay Oct. 22-24 – Apple Butter Weekend, Speaking School, New Hope Asbury Hills. 864-458-2071 or Sept. 5 – Sunday Worship and Sept. 19 – Youth Service Fund UMC, Anderson, 3 p.m. [email protected]. Commemoration Service for Sunday (offering) Battle of the Bulge veterans, Main Oct. 5 – Anderson District Clergy Oct. 22-24 – Choir Music Weekend, Street UMC, Columbia, 11 a.m. Sept. 19-21 – LJ Peace Conference: meeting, 9 a.m., St. Andrew Lake Junaluska, N.C. www.lake - www.mainstumc.com. Children at the Table of Peace, UMC, Easley junaluska.com/choirmusic. Lake Junaluska, N.C. www.lake - Sept. 7-9 – Bishop’s School of junaluska.com Oct. 5-7 – Alban @ Lake Junaluska: Oct. 24 – Anderson District Lay Ministry, Springmaid Beach Finishing Strong, Ending Well, Speaking School, New Hope Resort, Myrtle Beach Sept. 22-25 – Working in the Heart’s Lake Junaluska, N.C. www.lake - UMC, Anderson, 3 p.m. Kingdom, Lake Junaluska, N.C. junaluska.com Sept. 12 –Work Day (Epworth www.lakejunaluska.com Oct. 24-26 – Lake Junaluska Children’s Day Oct. 8-9 – Junaluska Singers Fall Diaconate Gathering, Lake Sept. 23 – Gathering of S.C. Clergy Concert, Lake Junaluska, N.C. Junaluska, N.C. www.lakejunalus - Sept. 12 – Spirit Singers perform - Orders www.lakejunaluska.com ka.com ance, Cumberland UMC, Florence, 10 a.m. Sept. 24-25 – Chautauqua: J. Claude Oct. 8-10 – Children’s Sabbath Oct. 25-27 – Bridging the Gap – Evans Lecture Series, Lake Work and Faith, Lake Junaluska, Sept. 12 – Concerts at Mount Horeb, Junaluska, N.C. www.lakejunalus - Oct. 10 – Anderson District Council N.C. www.lakejunaluska.com Lexington, will present Tenth ka.com on Ministries training, 3-5 p.m., Avenue North for The Light Meets Trinity UMC, Anderson Oct. 31 – Reformation Day Dark Tour, featuring special Sept. 24-26 – Gathering of Native guests Addison Road. 7 p.m. American Men, Lake Junaluska, Oct. 10 – Anderson District Lay November www.concertsatmthoreb.com or N.C. www.lakejunaluska.com Speaking School, New Hope 803-359-3495. UMC, Anderson, 3 p.m. Nov. 1 – All Saints Day Sept. 27 – Connectional Ministries Sept. 15-Oct. 15 – Hispanic Grant Fund deadline Oct. 11 – Columbus Day Nov. 13 – Spirit Singers perform

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The Advocate prints death notices of Jeffords Barham, mother of Jeff 24 at Brown-Dawson Funeral Home. clergy and their immediate families and Barham, died Aug. 1, 2010. Mr. Memorials may be made to laypersons who have served on confer - Matthew John Paulsen Memorial Fund, Grace UMC, 1200 ence boards and agencies or who work Barham is the chancellor of the S.C. for the United Methodist Conference of MOUNT PLEASANT – Matthew Annual Conference of the United Main St., Hamilton, Ohio 45013. South Carolina. John Paulsen, son of the Rev. Debra Methodist Church. Mr. Brashear is survived by his Malcom, died July 23, 2010. Rev. A memorial service was held Aug. wife, Ethel Brashear, two daughters retired member of the S.C. Annual Malcom is the pastor of Bethany 4 at Ashland UMC, Columbia. and a son. Conference of the United Methodist United Methodist Church, Memorials may be made to Church. Summerville. Ashland UMC, 2600 Ashland Road, Robert James Erikson Funeral services were held Aug. 9 A memorial service was held July Columbia, SC 29210; College Place INDIANAPOLIS – Robert James at Floyd’s Greenlawn Chapel, with 27 at Mount Pleasant Presbyterian UMC, 4801 Colonial Drive, Erikson, father of the Rev. Elise entombment in Greenlawn Church, with a private burial. Columbia, SC 29203; the Lexington Barrett, died July 18, 2010. Rev. Memorial Gardens Heritage Chapel Memorials may be made to Medical Center Volunteer Auxiliary Barrett is on family leave; her hus - Mausoleum. LifePoint Inc., ATTN: Barbara Nursing Scholarship Fund, 2720 band, the Rev. Chris Barrett, is pas - Mr. Griffin is survived by his Gause, 3950 Faber Place Drive, Sunset Blvd., West Columbia, SC tor of St. Andrews Parish United daughter and two sons. Suite 300, Charleston, SC 29405. 29169; the American Cancer Society Methodist Church, Charleston. Mr. Paulsen is survived by his S.C. Division, 128 Stonemark Lane, Funeral services were held July Carlee Thomas McClendon mother, father, brother and maternal Columbia, SC 29210; or the Helen 24 at Shirley Brothers Washington MOUNT PLEASANT – Carlee grandmother. Jeffords Barham Scholarship at Memorial Chapel. Thomas McClendon, brother of Dr. Columbia College, 1301 Columbia Memorials may be made to the Tim McClendon, died Aug. 15, Alma Lee Stewart Taylor College Drive, Columbia, SC 29203. Amyloid Research Group, I.U. 2010. PICKENS – Alma Lee Stewart Mrs. Barham is survived by her Medical Center, 635 Barnhill Drive, Dr. McClendon is the superin - Taylor, sister of Katherine husband, Robert Timothy “Bob” Indianapolis, IN, 46202. tendent of the Columbia District of Millwood, died Aug. 4, 2010. Mrs. Barham, daughter and son. Mr. Erikson is survived by his son the S.C. Annual Conference of the Millwood is the widow of the Rev. and daughter. United Methodist Church. Pete Millwood. Taylor W. Brashear Funeral services were held Aug. Funeral services were held Aug. 8 HAMILTON, Ohio – Taylor W. Thomas “Tom” M. Griffin 19 at Edgefield UMC, with burial in at Dillard Funeral Home Chapel, Brashear, father of Carolyn SPARTANBURG – Thomas “Tom” Eastview Cemetery. with burial in Hillcrest Memorial Brashear, died July 20, 2010. Ms. M. Griffin, father of Judy Ervin, Memorials may be made to Park and Gardens. Kevin’s reflection Brashear is a diaconal minister at died Aug. 7, 2010. Mrs. Ervin is the Edgefield UMC, P.O. Box 25, Mrs. Taylor is survived by her Editor’s note: The Columbia I came back to the States with a more days.” On the first day we met the intern Trinity United Methodist Church, wife of the Rev. David Ervin, a Edgefield, SC 29824. two sons and daughter. Korean United Methodist Church mind that believes maybe there really The night we arrived, no one had team at the Centro de Esperanza, oth - went to Sacalum, Yukatan, Mexico on is a God. Before the trip, I never want - actually talked to any of us. I felt like erwise known as Hope Center. It’s not a mission trip June 13-19. The Rev. ed to go to Mexico; I went on the mis - this trip was going to be a drag of just them – everyone you see just Luke MoonTaeg Rhyee led Andrew sion trip because of my mother’s deci - bored solitude because the intern loves to see you and meet you. The Junaluska Multicultural Conference embraces diversity LAKE JUNALUSKA, N.C. –All are Gonzales, associate director of life-transforming environment to One CEU credit is available. Call Yun, Kay Stone, Nam Allen, Yena sion. group there was not very social until people who live there have no real invited to Lake Junaluska’s second Connectional Ministries for the explore the common bond of God’s 828-454-6656 or visit www.lakeju - Song, Jane Hyun, Kevin Hyun and Before going to Mexico, Pastor the next day. motivation to get a bigger house or a Multicultural Conference, set for Pacific Northwest Conference; Dr. love for all.” naluska. com/multicultural to register Jeffrey Jeong in the trip. The following Lucas held meetings to get our minds On the first day, I was taken to a huge piece of land. I mean, there is Dec. 2-4. The theme for the confer - Anne Marshall, a community activist Early registration ends Oct. 16. or for more information. reflection was written by Kevin Hyun, in the right place. These meetings place called Cenotes. Cenotes are somewhat of a desire for a bigger or ence is “Embracing Christ’s Multi- who speaks on indigenous issues, who went on the trip as a non-believer were so painful to go to, but the mes - caves with an underwater river sys - better house, but most of them are Ethnic Body: Breaking Down racism and human rights violations but is now on the Christian path. sage was clear: this mission trip is not tem; being taken to a place like this content with their life. Barriers and Building Bridges.” around the world; Dr. Tim Tyson, for us. made me realize how great Mexico I was told by Pastor Kyle that the During this event, organizers say award-winning author of “Blood There is no God. You must be weak The Sunday of our departure was can be. I began to like Sacalum and all people who own businesses don’t go people will experience life-changing Done Sign My Name” and senior to believe in a God. Prayer is for the off to a bad start; security check the other villages because of the peo - crazy over making a profit. The peo - times of listening and learning as par - scholar at the Center for people who didn’t have someone to wasn’t great, either. There were dread - ple there. Cenotes are a part of the cul - ple there sometimes just close their ticipants share stories of challenges, Documentary Studies at Duke talk to. Statements all made by me. ful happenings on the first day. I ture they have, because nowhere else shops and tell people, “Sorry, we’re disappointments, hopes and triumphs University; Dr. Mary John Dye, who This was the mind of mine before my remember writing in my book, “Oh in the world do they have the same closing for the weekend,” and cus - along the pilgrimage to make our began her ministry as the first cross- mission trip to Sacalum. great, I have to stay miserable for six type of cenotes. tomers don’t get mad or anything churches the inclusive communities racial appointment in the Mississippi of love and respect God has called us Conference; and Bishop William to create. Morris, retired, who provides leader - Leaders with a passion for justice, ship for the Design Team of the mercy, inclusiveness and a commit - Multicultural Conference. ment to welcoming all to the table of “The Lake Junaluska Multicultural the Lord include the Rev. Eric Law Conference will be a place for of Kaleidoscope Institute (via Skype); embracing diversity,” said the Rev. Bishop Gregory Palmer of the Illinois Jimmy L. Carr, executive director of Area; Bishop Will Willimon of the Lake Junaluska. “Persons will come North Alabama Conference; Kristina together in a safe, life-affirming and Ware elected associate lay leader Barbara Ware has continue in the position she had held been named the new for the past six years. associate conference Ware was nominated by the nomi - lay leader of the nation committee of the Board of Board of Laity. Laity chaired by Dr. Carolyn Briscoe Ware, who was of Clemson. Ware will serve in the serving as Greenville position for the next two years, as District lay leader, well as continue her duties as the Ware replaces Kathryn Greenville District lay leader. Scarborough, who was commissioned “Congratulations to Ms. Ware on as a local pastor during the confer - her election,” said Joseph Heyward, ence and thus became ineligible to conference lay leader. Page 20, September 2010 The South Carolina United Methodist Advocate Seniors Walk to Emmaus – Tressie Kelley’s story Bulge veterans By Charlie and Marianne Schuler participants began to understand more invited to attend fully the love of Jesus and God’s Tressie Kelley is a longtime mem - amazing grace. Main Street ber of Little River United Methodist She shared a story of a young Church. woman from Sumter who had many special service She is also known as the “butterfly problems in her life. Over the course COLUMBIA – Veterans of the lady.” She has given away thousands of the weekend, Tressie was able to Battle of the Bulge are invited to of little plastic butterflies with this comfort her and, through that connec - worship at Main Street United message, “Hi, I want to give you this tion, feel blessed and comforted her - Methodist Church Sept. 5. butterfly as a reminder that I love you self. She said she now, for the first Chief Chaplain Douglas L. and God loves you even more.” She time, fully understands the concept of Carver, major general of the U.S. has touched many lives with her agape love. Army, will be the speaker for a spe - beautiful smile and upbeat positive On one of the nights, she was told cial 11 a.m. worship and commemo - attitude. they were going for a short walk to ration service. Veterans of the Battle If you want to know what is going the beach. She told them she had of the Bulge Reunion will have Tressie Kelley on in our neck of the woods, ask already seen the beach and didn’t reserved seating in the church and Tressie. We have almost 100 mem - interested. She desperately needed a want to go again. She was taken lunch will be provided for them. bers of our church who have been on hip replacement and didn’t feel she aback when one of the leaders said, Carver, a native of Rome, Ga., the Walk to Emmaus, so we wanted to was up to too much walking. She had “You are going even if I have to carry has held the position of Chief of ask Tressie about her Walk and find been advised that she was too old for you.” Chaplains for the U.S. Army since out if she would recommend others to the surgery, and she was resigned to She said that she didn’t like that, July 2007. participate. passing on the opportunity. However, but when it was over, she realized she As an ordained minister, he has Tressie is now 99 years young. after much persuasive talking by their would have hated missing one served churches in Kentucky, Recently, she had the opportunity to sponsor, the late Leonard Koontz, she moment of that event or the whole Colorado and Virginia. talk to a woman 102 years of age, and reluctantly agreed to go. weekend. For more information, go to Tressie asked her what was her secret Tressie described the walk as a Her husband, Harold, had given her www.mainstumc.com or call 803- of a long life. place filled with love, the Holy Spirit, a great gift by pushing her to go on 779-0610. But our goal was to find out about fun, singing, wonderful talks, inspira - the walk. He recently died after 65 her Walk to Emmaus. Tressie told us tional moments and touching of her years of marriage. His final words to she went on Walk 72 back in March heart, by both lay people and clergy. her were that he loved her. Did you know that you 2001 just weeks before her 90th birth - She said she loved the food, but that We asked Tressie what she would can make a gift and day. Her husband of 60-plus years was easy because she didn’t have to tell someone who was thinking about receive guaranteed really, really wanted to go on the cook it. And all the people serving taking the walk. Her reply was, “Go, income for life? walk. seemed to be so happy and smiling. go, go!” It was the most wonderful She, on the other hand, was not too She said as the weekend progressed, weekend in her 99 years of life. That’s exactly what dozens of people have done since 1982 through Charitable Gift Annuities with the South Pew View Carolina United Methodist Foundation. What was most fun about the Katie Jenkins, Buffalo UMC, Spartanburg District’s older adult Buffalo , said the event is just Current One-Life Rates Yah-Yah Fun Day? plain fun, from the entertainment For Selected Ages to the seniors who get together, enjoy life and share that enjoy - Age 60 5.2% Bill Kallio, First Baptist Age 65 5.5% , said he ment with everyone else. Church, Spartanburg Age 70 5.8% likes the fact that so many of his Age 75 6.4% friends come to Yah Yah Fun Kay Campbell, Lyman UMC, Age 80 7.2% Day. “It’s a lot of good music, a Lyman , said the entertainment Age 85 8.1% lot of good fellowship,” he said. “just makes you laugh.” Two-Life Rates Available Bill Monroe, Central UMC, Dwayne Broyles, Central UMC, Upon Request Spartanburg , said he likes the Spartanburg , said for him, it idea of getting so many groups was all about Liebowitz and Gift Annuities with the Foundation provide guaranteed of people together from all over Harmon (The Cap & The Collar). lifetime income at an attractive the district. “It gives you a good “We’ve been looking forward to rate, immediate tax benefits for feeling,” he said. it!” your charitable contribution, and a way to leave a legacy for the future.

Grief and Mourning Training ------The South Carolina United Methodist Foundation, Inc. Dr. Therese Rando, Ph.D. P. O. Box 5087 October 1-3, 2010 Columbia, SC 29250-5087 Lexington, South Carolina Send me information about a Charitable Gift Annuity with Professional CEUs: the Foundation. LLR, NBCC, SCPA (18hrs) Name ______Address ______Contact: Rev. Eric Skidmore 803-206-8961 City ______http://www.scleap.org/rando_training/ State ______Zip ______The South Carolina United Methodist Advocate September 2010, Page 21 Resource Center

By Betty Stalnaker with classic carols and hymns, along referred to as the Uses;” “Big Band of Shepherds;” “Wee Resource Center Coordinator with stirring new songs from Chris “three wise men” or Three Kings;” “Shine on Us;” Tomlin, Geron Davis, Sue C. Smith “three kings,” the “Constellation Celebration;” “Look Up”/ New Christmas musicals are avail - and Russell Mauldin. journey of the Magi “This Little Light of Mine (Reprise).” able from the Resource Center: Songs include Come Adore Him is an amazing story Children/30 min./Easy/Unison/2-part. Medley (“O Holy Night!”/ “O Come, All of obedience, faith (Brentwood-Benson) Listening CD Ye Faithful”); “Emmanuel (Hallowed and worship. Join available. Adult Musicals: Manger Ground);” “O Come, O Come, the fantastic story A THRILL OF HOPE (SBK249) Emmanuel;” “Be It Unto Me;” “Joseph; of these three com - Author: Raney, THE CHRISTMAS PUZZLE (SBK248) O Holy Night!;” “The One;” The panions as they set Author: Joel. Manger Worship Medley (“Silent Night! their sights on a Robertson, Carter This musical is a Holy Night!”/ “Holy bright star in the heavens that would and Barny. retelling of the Ground/Emmanuel”); “Come Adore ultimately lead them to the Christ The setting is Christmas story Him (Finale).” Adult/40 child, the King of all kings! Optional grandma’s living divided into four min./Easy/SATB. (Brentwood-Benson) simple narration and movements for room. Four cousins parts: Hope, Love, Listening CD available. all songs are also included in the are snowed in, and Peace and Joy. choral book. Songs include “Follow the power is out: no Each section has a the Star;” “We Three Kings;” “Out of video games, no TV, musical medley THE SAINTS’ AND ANGELS’ SONG the Bethlehem Sky;” “Adore Him;” no movies, no cell packed with an (SBK240) Author: Gambill, “Carol Medley” (“Joy to the World”/ phones and the list amazing array of familiar carols sure Luke. “Hark! the Herald Angels Sing”/ goes on! The cousins discover God’s to appeal to singers and audiences The joyous mira - “Angels We Have Heard on High”). picture-perfect plan as they struggle to alike. The major themes of Advent and cle surrounding the Children/23 min./Easy/Unison/2-part. complete a jigsaw puzzle with nothing Christmas are all addressed, culminat - birth of Christ con - (Brentwood-Benson) Listening CD but clues from the Bible to guide them. ing in an uplifting celebration of the joy tinues to be one of available. This musical is designed for easy of the season. Narration and Scripture the greatest stories production and presentation, and it readings appear between each move - ever told! Now, easily adapts to any size stage, plat - ment. from A Simple STAR OF WONDER! A KIDS form or other performance space. “A Thrill of Hope” features “Long Series Christmas, comes this com - CHRISTMAS MUSICAL OF HOPE The cast is made up of four children Ago, Prophets Knew;” “Sing We Now pelling new proclamation of that (SBK242) and one adult. Costuming is what chil - of Christmas;” “The First Noel;” Author: Clark, blessed event, as told through new dren would normally wear in “Come, Thou Long-Expected Jesus;” Dave. Thompson, songs, traditional carols and stirring December, and the setting is a simple “A Gift of Love: Love Came Down at Jayme. narration. Songs include “The Saints’ “grandma’s living room” decorated for Christmas;” “Angels, from the Realms In this Christmas and Angels’ Song;” “Gloria;” “Living in Christmas. of Glory;” “Love Divine, All Loves musical you’ll meet Me;” “Carol Worship Medley” (“Silent Songs include “Picture Perfect Excelling;” “Away in a Manger;” “The such bright lumi - Night! Holy Night!”/ “The First Noel”/ Plan;” “Come, Thou Long-Expected Gift of Love;” “A Prayer for Peace: naries as “O Come, All Ye Faithful”); Jesus;” “Angels We Have Heard on Silent Night, Holy Night;” “Let There Superstar, “Emmanuel;” “The Saints’ and Angels’ High;” “The Manger Throne;” “Here Be Peace on Earth;” “O Holy Night;” Shooting Star, Song (reprise).” Adult/20 We Are, Been Following a Star;” “The “A Song of Joy: Rejoice;” “Mary Had a Lucky Star, Falling Star, Rock Star, the min./Easy/Unison/2-part). (Brentwood- Whole Story Medley.” Baby;” “Angels, We Have.” North Star and a constellation full of Benson) Listening CD and ACD avail - Children/23 min./Easy/Unison/2- stars (the kids choir) as they anxiously able. part. (Lillenas) watch the biggest announcement in O HOLY NIGHT! (SBK241) Listening CD and Accompaniment Author: Mauldin, history unfold – the birth of Jesus! CD available. Russell. Children Musicals: God’s love shines through in this This musical cele - FOLLOW THE STAR (SBK243) easy-to-learn, easy-to-perform musi - The S.C. Conference Resource bration is filled with Authors: Williams, Susie. Gambill, cal. With its simple drama and fun-to- Center is your connection to VHS easy-to-sing, easy-to- Luke. Ebensberger, David. sing songs, you can let your kids choir tapes, DVDs and seasonal musicals. learn arrangements “Follow the Star” is a fun and joy - shine the light of Jesus like never We are here to serve your church fam - that still manage to be ous reminder of why the “wise men” of before. Songs include “Look Up”/ “This ily. To reserve resources, call 888-678- both glorious and the Christmas story sought Christ and Little Light of Mine;” “Hangin’ Around 6272 or visit www.umcsc.org/resource majestic and is filled why we still do today! More commonly the Heavens;” “God Chooses Who He center/index.html.

Teykl to speak at Mt. Horeb on stewardship, generosity Mount Horeb United Methodist the cost will be $15. Early registrants Church, Lexington, will host a half-day will also receive a copy of Teykl’s new seminar Oct. 30 on stewardship and “My Money Devotional: Finding God’s generosity. Heart.” The seminar will feature Terry Check-in begins at 9:30 a.m., and Teykl, one of the most sought-after the seminar runs from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. speakers in the country on the subject To register, call Freida Arehart at of prayer. Teykl will focus on biblical 803-359-3495 or e-mail freida@ principles regarding prayer and money. mthorebum.com . In addition, the pastoral staff at Mount Horeb will share an approach to stewardship that has led their congrega - Subscribe! tion to finish above budget for 15 con - $15/year. secutive years. Early registration, prior to Oct. 15, is Call 888-678-6272 or $10 and includes lunch. After Oct. 15, e-mail [email protected] today

NATIVE SON – Brookland United Methodist Church in West Columbia is happy to welcome a native son back as its new minister. The Rev. Wayne Smith has been a minister for 12 years and most recently has been serving the congregation of Church of the Palms UMC in Bluffton. Smith and his wife, Rhonda, both grew up in the area and are graduates of Brookland Cayce High School. They now live in Westover Acres with their two daugh - ters, Joye, 10, and Abigail, 7. Smith is a graduate of USC Aiken and got his Master of Divinity at Erskine Theological Seminary. Rhonda Smith is a 13- year veteran teacher and will be teaching at Pineridge Middle School this year. (Photo submitted to the Advocate ) Page 22, September 2010 The South Carolina United Methodist Advocate District News

Yon. Christopher was born July 30. Charleston District Rev. Yon is the pastor of Sharon UMC, Greer.

Congratulations to the Revs. Greenwood District Chris and Elise Barrett on the birth of their son. Robert Erikson Barrett was born Aug. 2. The Rev. Chris St. John’s UMC, Batesburg, Barrett is the pastor of St. Andrews held its Rally Day Aug. 15. During UMC, Charleston. The Rev. Elise the celebration, Sunday school Barrett is currently on family leave. teachers were recognized, children Greater St. Paul UMC, Cross, were promoted to the next class held its annual vacation Bible level and rising third graders school July 19-23 with a theme of received Bibles. “Praise Party – Worshiping God with Head, Heart, Hands, Feet and REACHING OUT – Beulah United Methodist Church, Gilbert, is getting cre - Soul!” The 75 attendees participated ative in its community outreach. It recently placed two billboards, pictured Marion District in worship prior to and after each above: “Shock Yo Mama” is on Highway 378, and “Come as You Are” is on Highway 1. Advocate class session. Significant highlights (Photos special to the ) of the week were the engaging Congratulations to the Rev. and music, hand clappers, Pastor Jones’ Mrs. Willie Lawson on the birth of daily participation in class discus - their granddaughter. Skye’ L. Lawson sions and group activities and deli - was born July 27 to Tim and cious African-American-inspired Shindana Lawson. Rev. Lawson is dishes. the pastor of the Asbury-Clio Charge, Clio. Joseph B. Bethea UMC, Columbia District Conway, will be holding its 12th annual golf tournament Nov. 6, and Salem UMC, Conway, will also be Grace UMC, Columbia, will hold its annual golf tournament on celebrate the 25th anniversary of its Nov. 13. Both tournaments will be first worship service Sept. 19. Dr. held at Whispering Pines Golf Course Tim McClendon, Columbia District at the old Air Force Base. The price superintendent, will preach at the 11 bring their backpacks for a special beginning of a new school year. for each Captain’s choice tournament a.m. service and a catered dinner dedication Aug. 22 marking the Children and youth were asked to is $60 per golfer or $240 per team. will follow. In the evening there will beginning of the school year. New bring their own book bad and an Lunch will be served. For registration be an informal “Heritage backpacks and supplies were col - extra one with a few school sup - information, call 843-685-9381. Celebration” Service at 6 p.m. fol - lected and given to needy students plies. The extra book bags were sent Cross Purposes, a group of musi - lowed by an Ice Cream Social in the through Family Shelter. to local elementary, middle and high cians, led a combined service July 18 new Fellowship Hall. Come and schools. at Little River UMC, Little River. join us as we celebrate 25 years of The group arrived Saturday afternoon Grace UMC fulfilling its mission, Florence District and enjoyed a barbecue with the host Greenville District “To Know Jesus and To Make Him families, friends and the church’s Known to Others.” Call 803-732- praise team band members. 1899 to make reservations for the Central UMC, Florence, held its On Sunday, the combined congre - catered dinner. annual Blessing of the Book Bags Congratulations to the Rev. Matt gations were led in a service of Shandon UMC, Columbia, during both Aug. 15 services for all and Katie Yon on the adoption of praise, worship and personal testi - invited families and students to children and youth to celebrate the their son, Christopher Alexander monies. St. Luke holds groundbreaking after fire destroys sanctuary Bulldozers are moving dirt as con - Sunday school program and nursery tractors prepare to start the new sanc - will continue to be held. tuary building of St. Luke United Insurance proceeds and funds raised Methodist Church, Walhalla. thus far are not enough to complete The historic building that housed the rebuilding project, so fundraising St. Luke’s sanctuary and Sunday efforts continue. The church held a school area was destroyed by fire in On July 7, St. Luke community barbeque with live music, July 2009. UMC held a ground - food and fellowship Aug. 14. Recently, on July 7, a groundbreak - breaking celebration “St. Luke would like to acknowl - ing celebration was held – exactly one for its new sanctuary edge and thank those congregations of year from the date of the fire. – exactly one year St. Mark (Seneca), Double Springs from the date of the Community leaders, fellow fire. (Mountain Rest), Lawrence Chapel Methodists from area churches and (Central), Friendship (Seneca), Salem almost the entire congregation attend - “We at St. Luke are hopeful and the South Carolina United Methodist and Green Pond (Gray Court) United ed the celebration. inspired as we embark on the awe - Conference. We hope that you as Methodist churches for their generous The Rev. Richard Reams gave the some journey of rebuilding,” Phil brothers and sisters in Christ, along contributions toward this project,” St. welcome, District Superintendent Phillips, building chair said. “We look with the S.C. Conference will feel a Luke representatives said. Susan Leonard-Ray spoke on behalf forward to building a sanctuary that sense of connection to our re-building St. Luke members hope all S.C. of the conference and former St. Luke will honor tradition and have the same project.” United Methodist churches will join pastor John Freeman gave remarks. spiritual feel of worship as the one we The congregation is attempting to them in celebrating the beginning of Bishop Mary Virginia Taylor was rec - lost. This building was lost not only to rebuild the sanctuary and connect the this building project and ask for ognized as a special guest. the congregation of Saint Luke but to Family Activity Building where the prayers and blessings as they continue. The South Carolina United Methodist Advocate September 2010, Page 23 International Bible School Lessons

Key Verse: Exodus 20:2-3 – “I am mind.” The Israelites have been freed Places You’ll Go,” is often given to the Lord your God, who brought from slavery, brought through the high school graduates who are antici - By the Rev. Cathy Joens you out of the land of Egypt, out wilderness and now are at the bottom pating a new beginning. They are of the house of slavery; you shall of Mount Sinai waiting. moving from safety of home to, real - Joens is a congregational have no other gods before me.” Through their journey, they have ly, the unknown. specialist for the Greenville and Anderson districts. experienced the presence of God and Things have been promised and let Take a look at the Ten learned what God’s intention for realized by the students at this point. Commandments for a minute: You them is: a relationship where they This book says that you will see September 5 shall have no other gods before me. worship God and Him only. It’s a some new things, but it won’t always God’s Revelation to Moses You shall not make for yourselves relationship where God is trusted to be easy. It says in so many words to Lesson Scripture: Exodus 3:1-6, 13- idols. You shall not take the Lord’s provide for their every need and cir - stay the course, to hang in there 15 name in vain. Remember the Sabbath cumstance. because you are in store for a won - Background Scripture: Exodus 3 and keep it Holy. Honor your Father Yet they are at the bottom of the derful ride. “Oh the places you’ll go.” Key Verse: Exodus 3:6 – “And fur - and Mother. You shall not murder. mountain waiting. In the waiting, Moses has worked with God to ther, ‘I am the God of your father, You shall not commit adultery. You they forget where they have come intercede for their sin. He has suc - the God of Abraham, the God of shall not steal. You shall not bear from; they look for a tangible source cessfully worked it out with God Isaac, and the God of Jacob’ and false witness (lie). You shall not of salvation. They want something where God will not kill them all, that Moses hid his face, for he was covet. they can touch and see. he will give them a second chance, afraid to look at God.” Now take these and turn each com - They no longer see Moses, so they and God will be the leader of His mand into a positive. look to Aaron (his brother and assis - people. After reading this passage, take Several years ago when I was tant). They no longer feel God’s pres - We find Moses back on the moun - just a minute to soak in the picture. teaching Disciple Bible Study, our ence, so they look for an idol. They tain with two new freshly carved Moses, on Mount Horeb (also called task was to turn the Ten beg Aaron, so Aaron gives in and has tablets for God to put the command - Sinai) is tending his flock when a Commandment wording into positive them throw their gold in the fire, and ments on. And we read that God is bush erupts into flames and Moses instead of all the “shall nots.” up comes a golden calf. merciful, gracious, slow to anger, knows, instinctively, that God is “You shall have no other gods The problem is not that they need faithful and steadfastly loving. God there. before me” became “worship and something to see; the problem is that will keep His promise to lead them to This is a vital call for Moses and adore God and Him only.” they have made an idol that resem - the promised land: The land of milk the plan of God. It is so vital that God “You shall not make for yourselves bles a worldly god, not the heavenly and honey. doesn’t send an angel; He comes idols” became “Focus on God and father. “Out of sight, out of mind” – it It has been a long, arduous journey himself through this burning bush. He trust His presence,” and “You shall doesn’t take long for one’s attention for the Israelites, Moses and God. speaks directly to Moses and reminds not take the Lord’s name in vain” to be diverted to things “not” of God. Even though the Israelites are a stiff- him to take off his shoes because he became “Let us honor and praise God The Israelites are not alone in their necked people, God still makes this is standing on Holy ground. with our lips.” attention deficit. We suffer also. God promise. He will perform marvels I think that Moses is afraid of To see these commands change sees this as a lack of faith: The faith that no one has seen before, and He many things at this moment: He is into action and honoring statements to wait and see that God’s promises will do it in front of every nation so fugitive who committed murder, he is was a transforming moment for this come true. everyone will know that God is Lord. standing before a burning bush that class. We had spent so much time When He says He will rescue us Amazing! will not be consumed, he is hearing looking at the Ten Commandments as from captivity, He will. When He God is still forgiving, still working the voice of God, he is feeling His a list of rules not to break that we says He will be our God, He will. out His plan through us. He is still presence and is afraid to look at God. failed to see that this was a promise When He says Abraham will be the doing amazing things so His glory Yet God is there calling this man and a means for the Israelites to truly father of all nations, He will. can be seen and He will be wor - with all his fears and doubts. This is be in relationship with God. Why don’t we trust him? Each of shipped. good news for us, for it reminds us The Ten Commandments were us has to answer that question and a When was the last time you that God has a great plan that has given as a grace gift. They came out couple of others: What makes it easi - repented and God gave you a fresh been set in motion way before time of love from God as a gift to His peo - er for us to trust what someone says start? The last time you took time to began, and we are a part of that plan. ple so that they might walk in a way than trust the Word of God? What thank God for His presence and mer - And He wants us to be a part of it that was safe, healthy and communi - makes us restless and impatient for cies in your life? The last time you no matter our circumstances. ty-driven. It was not given by a mean God’s outcome? What steps will you sat down to think about the places God often calls the least, the sinful, and oppressive God. take to trust more? you have been? The places you have the poor and unsuspecting. Moses God brought His people out of The good news is that on that day yet to go? made many excuses for why he Egypt and gave them a covenant to at the bottom of Mt. Sinai, Moses Where is God in the coming and couldn’t. We make many excuses for be fruitful and live life in abundance. intervened boldly with God (who going? why we can’t, and yet God still calls He is this same God today, one who wanted to destroy the Israelites) and Are you thankful or expecting and sticks with us until our answer is wants us to live life in abundance, in asked Him not to destroy His people, more? yes. Then we, like Moses, take one relationship with Him. but to give them another chance. God step at a time seeking to be obedient Do you experience God as one did, and you know the rest of the to God’s direction. It is tough busi - who wants the best for you? Take a story. “Out of sight, out of mind” Free Advocate ness, to say the least, for us humans. moment to reflect on His love and continued and continues. What did God reveal to Moses on presence. Give Him thanks. subscription that mountain? He revealed His plan, September 26 His love, His trust, His guidance, His September 19 God Promises AnAwesome for new church Intentionality (you fill in the rest). God Versus “gods” Thing members! Have you been called by God? Lesson Scripture: Exodus 32:1-10 Lesson Scripture: Exodus 34: 1, 4- What was your experience like? Can Background Scripture: Exodus 32 10 Churches, please e-mail you relate to Moses and his fears and Key Verse: Exodus 32:8 – “They Background Scripture: Exodus 34: doubts? How has God revealed him - the Advocate with names have been quick to turn aside from 1-10 and addresses of your new self to you? What did or does it take the way that I commanded them; Key Verse: Exodus 34:6 – “The for you to say yes? members, and we’ll be they have cast for themselves an Lord, the Lord, a God merciful and glad to send them a image of a calf, and have wor - gracious, slow to anger, and complimentary one-year September 12 shiped it and sacrificed to it.” abounding in steadfast love and subscription. God’s Covenant with Israel faithfulness.” Lesson Scripture: Exodus 20:1-11 This passage begs me to quote an [email protected] Background Scripture: Exodus 20 old saying, “Out of sight, out of The Dr. Seuss book, “Oh The Page 24, September 2010 The South Carolina United Methodist Advocate Our Neighbor’s House an offshoot of Salkehatchie By Vicki Wilkerson Sweatman and had fallen off; the bathroom sink had no plumbing, and they were using Knightsville United Methodist a plastic bowl. Many other repairs Church, Summerville, recently estab - were also needed. lished Our Neighbor’s House to repair “We began to reach out to the homes and provide basic necessities church, local business and individuals, for some of their most needy neigh - and the response was tremendous,” bors. The coordinators of the group said Judie Richardson, one of the coor - were inspired by the youth of the dinators of the project. church who had learned construction Jill Henry, another coordinator, said skills while participating in that more than 27 businesses donated Salkehatchie Summer Service and materials, money, food and other wanted to continue to use those skills necessities. to help the unfortunate in nearby A group of 54 volunteers from the neighborhoods throughout the year. church and the community ranging in Before the group officially organ - age from 12 to 85 met at Knightsville ized, the youth completed a project for UMC at 6 a.m. on Saturday, July 31, to Barney Smalls, a local mentally handi - eat a quick breakfast. Then they head - capped man whose home could have ed to the Smalls’ residence to work. been condemned in 2008, and many Volunteers replaced the floors and thought it would be their only project. cabinets in the kitchen, repaired the Volunteers replaced the floors and cabinets in the Smalls’ kitchen, repaired the bathroom, painted the home and reworked parts of the roof that were in disrepair. However, Smalls continued to ask for bathroom, painted the home and help for his elderly mother who did not reworked parts of the roof that were in you all.” UMC, which was only a couple of have the ability or means to help her - disrepair. One volunteer even made Carrie Smalls said she was so grate - miles from the job site, opened its fel - self. custom curtains for the home. At the ful to her son, Barney, for bringing her lowship hall for the volunteers to have When leaders finally visited his end of the 12-hour workday the group help, and Ida Smalls, an elderly sister, a cool, clean place to eat lunch, and mother, Ms. Carrie Smalls, who lives installed a much-needed air-condition - said it was a long, hot day. workers at Knightsville UMC prepared with three elderly siblings in their old er and filled the new cupboards with The project was a well-coordinated dinner for the entourage when the family home in Adams Run, they groceries. effort with many people working workday was over. knew they had to help. Floors and cab - Minus Smalls, the elderly brother, behind the scenes, as well as on-site. The Rev. Ed Reynolds said he was inets in the kitchen had rotted; many of said, “Thank you, thank you, thank Runners left the residence to procure proud of the way his church was the edges of the roof had deteriorated you. We needed this so bad. God bless additional building materials. Sand Hill reaching out to those in need.

POWER: GC secretary thought to be contemplating reduction From Page 1 General Conference is an administra - right to determine the number of dele - tive officer and is therefore limited to gates to General Conference. Per the authority given him by the conference. United Methodist Constitution, dele - “The secretary of the General gates to the quadrennial General Conference has the authority to reme - Conference must be no fewer than 600 dy a situation, but only in the case and no more than 1,000, half of which where the prescribed calculation results must be clergy and half laity (Para. in a number of delegates where it’s 13). below the minimum or above the max - Every annual conference is entitled imum,” Gramling said. “I think the to two delegates. Beyond that, confer - right to remedy is not the same as the ences get a proportional number of right to set or determine the number of delegates based on a formula estab - delegates to General Conference, and lished in the Book of Discipline (Para. in doing so, the secretary would be 502). But for years, the formula has exceeding his or her authority.” The Judicial Council will hear from the S.C. Conference, which is requesting a ruling on The Rev. Sara White, who was a produced delegates that are more than whether the secretary of General Conference can determine number of delegates the 1,000 maximum, said S.C. there. Council members (from left) are Ruben Reyes, Rev. Dennis Blackwell, Rev. delegate to the last conference, said she Conference Secretary the Rev. Tim Kathi Austin Mahle, Rev. Belton Joyner, Rev. Susan Henry-Crowe, Jon Gray, Angela agrees with South Carolina’s filing. Rogers, who filed the brief for this Brown, Beth Capen and Rev. Bill Lawrence. (UMNS photo by Neill Caldwell) She said there are several matters at conference. So the secretary of General Carolina sent 20 delegates last year; reduced to the bare minimum. At the hand, substantial matters about cost Conference, currently the Rev. L. this state could see its number halved. last conference, the Commission on and size that cannot be answered by Fitzgerald Reist, is given the authority “The issue is: Does the secretary of the General Conference proposed a just cutting the number of delegates. to adjust the number to bring it within General Conference have the authority reduction to a minimum of 500 and “What I read in the Discipline does constitutional limits. himself to reduce the size of General maximum of 600 delegates, but the not give the secretary this kind of But this year, Rogers said, the Conference more than is necessary to Legislative Committee on Conferences across-the-board powers,” White said. church is facing two notable issues bring it within constitutional limits?” voted it down 46-0, and then the full “It’s a matter for General Conference when it comes to delegates. First, the Rogers said. conference voted it down 842-24. to decide, not the secretary.” addition of the Ivory Coast Conference Certainly, South Carolina will lose “It was defeated as completely as Thirty other cases are also on the (the newest and largest conference in some delegates because of the new you can defeat something,” Rogers Judicial Council’s fall docket. The top the world) means other conferences Ivory Coast members. said. court will revisit a decision allowing a must lose delegates to accommodate it. “But to do this (reduce the size Regardless of whether the secretary Virginia pastor to bar a gay man from Second, there is some discussion in the more than necessary), you change the is contemplating this, the top court is joining his congregation. The court also church that General Conference is sim - nature of the General Conference being asked to determine if the secre - is being asked to reconsider a decision ply too big or cumbersome or costly, because you are changing the represen - tary has such authority. upholding the dismissal of a S.C. cler - and that the secretary of General tation,” Rogers said. “That’s a drastic The Rev. Roger Gramling, president gyman, Jimmy J. Montgomery, accused Conference might consider reducing reduction.” of the S.C. United Methodist of having an ongoing affair with a mar - the number of delegates to the bare He said the General Conference Foundation who is a former secretary ried woman. minimum of 600. That would be a actually has already voiced an opinion and former parliamentarian of the S.C. View the docket at http://archives. huge difference, given that South about whether the size should be Conference, said the secretary of umc.org/interior.asp?ptid=1&mid=9412