Hoosier United Methodists 1 www.inareaumc.orgHOOSIER UNITED METHODISTS together

March 2005 open hearts, open minds, open doors. Volume 35 The people of The United Methodist Church Number 3 Hoosiers deliver thousands of health kits for tsunami survivors By Alison Bartels Appeal in January, more than CWS Regional Director the 11,500 health kits, valued at Rev. Judy Dunson described Hoo- Church World Service recent- $138,000, have been checked, siers’ overwhelming response as ly put out a call for extra volun- packed and loaded into a semi- a “delightful problem.” teers as thousands of tsunami re- trailer parked in the back parking Dunson told Together, “The lief health kits arrived at the Indi- lot of the center. Thousands more kits are coming in steadily from ana Interchurch Center in India- continue to be processed. These all over Indiana and Kentucky, as napolis, the same building con- kits will replenish health kits, at well as from some churches in taining the Indiana Area United the CWS Warehouse in New southern Ohio.” Methodist office. Windsor Md., that were shipped Inside the CWS office, Dunson Since the start of the special to Indonesia for survivors of the and her team of staff and volun- Indiana-Kentucky CWS Tsunami Dec. 26 South Asia Tsunami. teers have labored for days to pro- cess the incoming health kits, one at a time. “It can be very time consum- ing,” said Janie Bishop, a CWS staff member. The workers ran into problems when they found kits that were not assembled as instructed. Some kits arrived with used washcloths or missing items. Additionally, CWS put out a request for 400 in- dividually wrapped toothbrushes after as many kits arrived with un- sealed toothbrushes. Dunson said they took the time to fix all the kits found incomplete. “If we are going to see them, Together photo we feel obliged to make them Pastor Rob Nelson of Grace UMC in New Paris, Ind., delivers 75 health right,” Dunson said. kits from his North Indiana congregation to Judy Dunson, Indiana-Ken- Nevertheless, workers are en- tucky regional CWS director, at the Indiana Interchurch Center in India- Together photo Indiana-Kentucky Region staff (from left) Janie Bishop, Gretchen Landon joying themselves, as well as napolis. and Director Judy Dunson, all of Church World Service, check in Health knowing their time will pay off Kits before sending them to the Maryland warehouse. as the kits meet the simple hu- man needs of disaster survivors south to New Paris in the north. that have lost nearly everything. Wesley Chapel UMC in New Al- CWS staff member Gretchen bany donated 228 kits. Grace Landon said she had fun tightly UMC in New Paris contributed UMCOR receives $15 million for tsunami aid packing the boxes of health kits more than 75 kits. (See related sto- By Elliott Wright into the truck. “It’s like doing ry about Ramsey, Ind. school chil- “We are extremely pleased, but we are Legos,” she said. dren on page .) NEW YORK (UMNS) – A total Among those who have partic- Alison Bartels, a senior at But- of $15 million has been contrib- not surprised.” ipated in the donation effort are ler University, serves as a student uted to the United Methodist – Roland Fernandes several United Methodist congre- intern for the Indiana Area Com- Committee on Relief for post-tsu- gations from New Albany in the munications office. nami recovery work in the Indian Ocean region. The $15 million figure, as of Feb. of tsunami gifts has slowed by the “We are extremely pleased, but 23, includes donations from all necessity of keeping that money we are not surprised,” said Roland sources including: credit cards, separate from funds contributed to Health Kits received: Fernandes, treasurer of the United checks sent directly to the agency UMCOR’s many other projects. Methodist Board of Global Minis- and money channeled through annu- Contributions for tsunami relief Total kits processed: more than 11,500 (checked, counted, tries, which is UMCOR’s parent al conferences of the denomination. and rehabilitation can be made in a packed, stacked as of March 1.) organization. “United Methodists To date, the North Indiana Con- variety of ways. Gifts may be placed Value: $138,000 are known for their generosity in ference has received $289,000 for in the offering plate of any United For more information, contact: times of great human distress.” tsunami relief and another $13,000 Methodist church or sent to UM- The Rev. Judy Dunson, Regional Director On Dec. 26, massive tidal towards the rebuilding of the Meth- COR at 475 Riverside Drive, Room Church World Service for Indiana and Kentucky, 1100 W. 42nd waves, set off by an underwater odist church at Banda Aceh. To 330, New York, NY 10115. Desig- St., Stuite 140, Indianapolis IN 46208 earthquake, devastated large land date, the South Indiana Conference nate the contribution for “Advance 317-923-2938, toll-free in Ind. 888-297-2767 or e-mail areas around the Indian Ocean. has received $364,110 for tsunami #274305, South Asia Emergency.” [email protected] The nations of Sri Lanka and In- relief and another $17,001 towards For credit-card donations, call Join Imani in the village! www.buildavillage.org A place for donesia were hit hardest. Contri- the rebuilding of Methodist church 800-554-8583 or log on to learning, growing, and giving for children of all ages. butions began arriving at UMCOR at Banda Aceh, Indonesia. MethodistRelief.org, which uses a the next day and have not stopped. Fernandes said the tabulation secure server. www. inareaumc.org Hoosier United 2 Methodists FROM THE BISHOP together March 2005 It is a beautiful Easter morning “Happy Easter,” she said as I walked which made them want to care even more. As I walked out the door, Lib called to to celebrate our Easter faith. Such people from her hospital room. Those were the For me, as a young pastor-in-the-mak- me in a voice that was surprisingly strong, have not spent much time worrying about last words she ever spoke to me or to any- ing, Lib was someone who taught me how “Pastor Mike.” I turned back into the various Christian interpretations of the one, because soon afterwards she slipped to be in ministry. She was someone you room, and she said, “Happy Easter.” I re- Easter event, they did not debate the his- into a coma and died later that Easter enjoyed visiting and praying with – be- turned her greeting, left, drove back to the torical significance of the Resurrection, Sunday. cause you received as much ministry from church, made it in time for the worship and they never had much time for church Her name was Elizabeth, her as you gave to her. Over service and learned later that afternoon that politics about those issues. They just but everyone called her “Lib” those months of illness and pre- she had passed away peacefully. Indeed it knew that Easter is real, because they and she was the main leader in paring to die, Lib continued to had been, for Lib, a Happy Easter. lived an Easter faith. a small congregation where I be a beautiful person to know. A few days later as I watched our choir I pray this Easter will be for you and served as a student intern pas- The last time I saw her was bravely sing “O God Our Help in Ages for all to whom you love and minister, a tor in North Carolina while I on an Easter Sunday. I had Past” for her funeral service, it was still time of celebrating both our Easter faith was attending seminary at helped the youth lead the Easter Easter. Something of Lib’s spirit and joy and the Easter people who make Easter Duke Divinity School in sunrise service, and it came to- for life still carried that church along. Ev- believable for everyone else. Durham. She had been the gether well even after the usual eryone said the same thing. Somehow it Happy Easter. United Methodist Women disastrous rehearsal the week be- was appropriate for Lib to die on Easter. from Bishop Michael J. Coyner president, chair of the church fore. During a sunrise breakfast She was such an Easter person. Indiana Area of council, chair of just about every other offered by the men’s group and before the I have been blessed to know a lot of The United Methodist Church committee and certainly the mainstay of morning worship service started, I drove Easter people during my life and minis- “Making a Difference – in Indiana the congregation. to the hospital to visit Lib. She was very try. Those are the people who inspire me and Around the World” Lib had spent years being the “strong” weak, yet she wanted to talk about how the person, the “helping” person, the one who youth had done in the sunrise service, es- always hurried around providing meals pecially her own teenage son. She also for the sick. Now it was her turn to be the wanted to know how my wife Marsha was HOOSIER UNITED METHODISTS sick one as she was dying of cancer. When doing. Marsha had recently had surgery. she was first diagnosed, everyone won- That was typical of Lib – she focused upon dered if she would be able to accept help, everyone else first. Finally, I asked how rather than being the helper. The answer she was doing. She struggled to smile and was “yes” and Lib provided a beautiful to say, “It is a beautiful Easter morning.” I example and testimony of someone who could not stay long, and she was not strong allowed others to care, all the while en- enough for a long visit, so I prayed and March 2005 Vol. 35 No.3 couraging and supporting them in a way left. MISSION STATEMENT: To reflect the teachings of Christ through stories and pictures, thereby sharing key moments and concerns in Bishop to lead cruise tracing the life of his Indiana church and its people. To share joy, to share personal faith, to share challenges, and to refresh the spirit.

Paul’s fourth missionary journey Indiana Area Bishop/Publisher: Michael J. Coyner Indianapolis, IN. Printed in the U.S.A. copyright 2005 Indiana Area of The United Indiana Area Bishop Michael J. Coyner the church as we know it today,” Coyner Editor: Daniel R. Gangler will lead a 10-day cruise tracing Paul’s said. “As you follow the journeys of Paul, Methodist Church. Editorial Assistant: Erma Metzler fourth missionary journey beginning Nov. you will develop a deeper insight into the Postmaster: Send address changes to Hoosier 11, 2005. Prices for the trip start at $2,398 challenges Paul faced in his ministry. Printed by: HNE Printers, Columbus with soy- United Methodists Together, 1100 W. 42nd plus taxes, fees, etc. “I invite pastors, teachers and church based inks on recycled/recyclable paper St., Suite 210, Indianapolis, Indiana 46208 The Educational Opportunities Tours members to join me in this travel-study pro- cruise will visit Athens, Rome, Naples, gram that will enrich our understanding of Editorial Offices: Subscription Information: Call 317-924-1321. Pompeii, Malta, Sicily and Corinth. The the Christian faith.” Hoosier United Methodists Together One-year subscription, $12, single copy $1.50 Indiana Area United Methodist Church cruise includes a lecture series, “The Stud- For information, contact Educational Change of Address: Send the mailing label 1100 W. 42nd St., Suite 210 with your new address to: ies of Paul’s Life and Teachings,” which is Opportunities Tours at 863-648-0383, ex- Indianapolis, Indiana 46208 Erma Metzler, Together, Indiana Area UMC, worth two units of continuing education. tension 1-309, or visit their Web site: Phone: 317-924-1321 1100 W. 42nd. St., Suite 210, Indianapolis, “The impact of Paul’s ministry shaped www.eo.travelwithus.com. Fax: 317-924-4859 Indiana 46208 or e-mail e-mail: [email protected] [email protected] Hoosier United Methodists Together (ISSN- Commentaries and letters provided by 1544-080x) is a monthly (except June, Indiana Area United Methodist Subscribe today! August and December) publication of Communications do not necessarily represent Indiana Area United Methodist Together will inform you of religious news near and Communications, 1100 W. 42nd. St., the opinions or policies of Bishop Michael far, will inspire you with stories of faith and will connect Indianapolis, IN 46208, for clergy, laity and Coyner, the Indiana Area or The United you with a larger family of Christians. seekers. Periodicals postage paid at Methodist Church. † $12 for one year † $20 for two years Members of the Indiana Area Communications Commission †Here is my contribution to assist with Together’s expenses and Editorial Advisory Group: Steve Bahrt, chairman David Maish Name: ______Char Harris Allen Bruce Palmer Bishop Michael J. Coyner Scott Pattison Address: ______Ida Easley Cindy Reynolds Mark Eutsler Robert Sharp City: ______Donald Griffith Paula Shrock Jack Howey Bert Talbott State: ______Zip: ______Permission is hereby granted to United Methodist Congregations to reprint stories not previ- ously copyrighted in church newsletters. Send to: Hoosier United Methodists Together Indiana Area United Methodist Church www.inareaumc.org 1100 W. 42nd St., Suite 210 Correction: Indianapolis, Indiana 46208 In the “Church clinic heals medical woes for low income county” in the February Thank you for your support. issue of Together (Page 6), we misidentified Ivory Steinard as Dr. Joann Guttman. We regret the error. Hoosier United WELCOME Methodists 3 www.inareaumc.org together Easter speaks of Resurrection and Hope The Passion of The Christ, Mel United Methodists have given providing seeds and tools – signs Gibson’s 2004 blockbuster film, Look for the hope given to us in the more than $15 million toward tsu- of hope. returned to theaters across Amer- nami relief, offering Operation Class- ica this month as Easter approach- Resurrection of Jesus Christ and give God hope to the people of room, our Hoosier-style es. Whether or not thousands praise. South Asia who could mission to Liberia and again will flock to the theaters re- have been swallowed Sierra Leone, gives mains to be seen. However, the by deep despair. hope as districts join in telling of Christ’s passion story Hoosiers have given specific projects to does not lend itself to hope or to in death we can hope for new life. living hope through the resurrec- more than 11,500 hand- named schools in rees- the future. Passion bravely speaks Just as Christ died for our sins, He tion of Jesus Christ from the dead” made health kits for tsu- tablishing educational of death, sacrifice and atonement. was raised from the dead. (1 Peter 1:3). nami survivors, giving enterprises across the Christ died for our sins, but that For the Apostle Paul, the opera- Nothing attacks the human them hope with some- Atlantic Ocean. becomes only the beginning of His tive word surrounding resurrection spirit like despair. Despair can be- thing as essential as a Here at home, hope story. Without Christ’s resurrec- remains “hope.” He uses “hope” come fatal. The disciples of Christ toothbrush. Many of these packets has been restored in Indiana flood tion, the passion would have been over and over again from his teach- despaired. They were discouraged were assembled by children want- victims. Hope has been restored lost to history as one of the mil- ings to the church at Rome, to his that first holy week and had no ing to give hope to others. by the state legislature NOT ex- lions of crucifixions undertaken by personal letters to Timothy. hope. Their rabbi was about to Israelis and Palestinians are panding gambling when they had a cruel empire that ruled with Paul writes, “For in this hope, teach them a lesson they would again on the road to peace, push- an excuse to do so. Hope is writ- death and intimidation to keep or- we were saved” (Romans 8:24). He never forget. Death need not be ing back the despair of past years ten in new legislation to protect der and power. Unfortunately, Gib- calls resurrection hope, just as he the end, but only the beginning. looking to the hope of peace with Hoosier children from abuse and son’s passion only gives a cameo calls Jesus Christ our hope and In his life, death and resurrection, justice. neglect. glimpse of Resurrection. The Gos- speaks about the hope of eternal life Jesus taught us about hope. Sudanese church leaders have Come, read and celebrate the pels make it center stage – the rea- “Hope” had stature for the As you read through this issue not given up on their country fol- hope given to us in the Resurrec- son for the Good News. Why? Apostle Peter, too. In his first let- of Together, look for the hope giv- lowing a 21-year civil war, but tion of Jesus Christ. Resurrection speaks to the ter, he writes, “By his great mer- en to us in the resurrection of Jesus they have hope for their future. Welcome, HOPE of Christianity, that even cy we have been born anew to a Christ and give God praise. UMCOR extends that hope by Daniel R. Gangler LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Missionary letter from free tuition. Ramona has six of these stu- everything lost, stood in line in a refugee So not necessarily in order of importance dents in her classes. camp with a voucher to get the first meat (after Oden): Indonesia This week the Indonesian government they had eaten since the tsunami. The lives ♦ The Meaning of Jesus by Marcus Borg What an unbelievable six weeks these declared the emergency stage over and will of so many have been turned upside down. and N.T. Wright: Harper San Francisco; have been since the earthquake and tsuna- now give attention to cleaning up the God is using his people everywhere to ♦ The Real Jesus by Luke Timothy mi devastated such a large area surround- mounds of debris that still contain many bring love and comfort to the people of In- Johnson: Harper San Francisco; ing the Indian Ocean. Just as we have been bodies of those who were swept away to donesia. We believe that one of the results ♦ The Bible and the Historian by Paul heart broken by the enormous amount of their deaths. When conditions are such that will be a new understanding of the Gospel S. Minear: Abingdon (Chapter 15, death and destruction, we have also been the refugees are able to return to their that has transformed the lives of the gener- “The Hope” should be must reading moved and strengthened by the incredible homes, the church will continue to help ous donors and now gives new hope to those for all those interested in theological outpouring of care and contributions to help them. Rebuilding of the churches and the who still long for inner peace and security. education!); the suffering survivors in all of the coun- Banda Aceh Methodist School will also ♦ The New Creation – John Wesley’s The- tries affected. come later. With much love and prayer, ology Today by Theodore Runyan: We know that aid has come from caring Ramona and I have not yet traveled to Don and Ramona Turman Abingdon; people from several religions and many or- the areas of destruction. So far our roles General Board of Global Ministries ♦ A Future for Truth-Evangelical theology ganizations throughout the world, but the have been pastoral in our own congrega- Missionaries in Jakarta in a Postmodernist World by Henry H. impact of the compassion shown by Chris- tion and giving support to Bishop Bachtiar Knight III: Abingdon; tians will not be a lost witness in this coun- Kwee and the Conference Social Services Consider another ♦ How Now Shall We Live? By Charles try. Christian volunteers doing all kinds of Department. We have also been able to help Colson and Nancey Pearson: Tyndale; relief work to help the grieving and home- connect people and resources from outside booklist ♦ The Battle For God by Karen less people of Nias Island and Aceh and the country with contacts here. Wesley Remembering Jim Morin from the NIC Armstrong: Ballantine (A History of North Sumatra Provinces are courageous- Church Jakarta has responded with more Board of Trustees in the seventies, I too Fundamentalism); ♦ ly demonstrating the servant hearts of than $2,500 in donations through the Con- have a booklist. This would be from dyed- In God’s Time by Craig C. Hill: Christians. This genuine witness of giving ference and we are exploring possibilities in-the-wool United Methodist third (or Eerdmans; ♦ and serving is being used by God in count- of joining with Habitat for Humanity in fourth) camp. In light of my own version C.S. Lewis Companion & Guide by less, life-changing ways. The United Meth- building new homes. Habitat for Humani- of Ecclesiastes – “of the making of many Walter Hooper: Harper San Francisco; odist Committee on Relief (UMCOR) re- ty’s long range plan is to build 10,000 book lists, there is not end,” I might title it And then, if you want to branch out: cently reported that more that $6 million in homes in Aceh and 200 in Nias. “A Modernist Neo-Orthodox Wesleyan ♦ Evidence of Purpose by John Marks donations have been received so far. We We are so grateful for all of you and for United Methodist” booklist. Templeton: Continuum; and know that many of you have contributed to your concern and prayers for us and the peo- Over a period of 25 to 30 years I have ♦ The Elegant Universe and The Fabric UMCOR through your churches and that ple of Indonesia. The Jakarta Metro TV sta- had the kind of awakening which Thomas of the Cosmos by Brian Greene: Vintage- many of you have given in other ways. tion that used the caption, “Indonesia is cry- Oden speaks of in his The Rebirth of Or- Random House. Donations that have come to the Jakarta ing,” during the first two weeks now uses thodoxy: HarperCollins. Oden tells of his Paul Steele Area Annual Conference to help the survi- the slogan, “Badai pasti berlalu – the storm pilgrimage from liberalism to orthodoxy. Fort Wayne, Ind. vors from the Methodist churches in Aceh is sure to pass.” It seems like an unrealistic have totaled around $80,000. These funds thought but it does reflect the desire and hope have come from churches in Indonesia, that we all have that healing and restoration ♦ ♦ Taiwan, Korea and the USA, including a will come quickly and that much good will Fast Easy Free $10,000 direct contribution from UMCOR. come from this horrendous tragedy. Keeping You Connected These funds have been used to help more Most of the relatives of our Wesley Church than 500 Methodist refugees from Banda family who were living in Aceh have been With vital information about Hoosier Aceh (350) and Meulaboh (100) as well as found and are safe. But Yenty Thomas has a United Methodists 30 non-Christian refugee families that have different story – 18 members of her extend- started coming to the Methodist Church in ed family are known dead or missing. Hoosier United Methodist News is electronic and Medan since the disaster. This first step has Jan. 22 was Idul Adhal, the Islamic Day available to you 24/7. been to help them meet their basic day-to- of Sacrifice in which those who can afford Connect at www.inareaumc.org day needs while they are living in refugee to do so donate sheep, goats and cows to Add your e-mail address by sending a blank page to [email protected]. camps or with relatives in Medan and Jakar- be slaughtered and given to the poor. We ta. About 10 students from Aceh are attend- read of one family in Aceh who expected e-HUM is a ministry of Indiana Area Communications ing Imanuel School where they are given to donate a cow this year but instead, with Hoosier United 4 Methodists INDIANA together March 2005 Center for Aging and Community receives federal funds $320,000 will support efforts on residential, workplace issues INDIANAPOLIS – The Center based services that help older adults to 2 p.m. April 15 at the Indianap- the Human Resource Certification dianapolis’ faculty and resources for Aging and Community at the live independently, and Meaning- olis Marriott Downtown. Veteran Institute. For more information or in health care, education, business University of Indianapolis is re- ful Work for Older Adults, which network newsman Hugh Downs to register online, call 317-791- and other fields, the center devel- ceiving a $320,000 federal appro- addresses the many issues sur- will headline a program of nation- 5930 or visit http://cac.uindy.edu/ ops partnerships between higher priation to continue its advocacy, rounding the aging of the workforce ally recognized experts discussing workplaceconference.php. education and the broader com- education and research on issues and the intent of most Americans the keys to managing a maturing Founded in 2001, the Center munity. Overall goals include pro- surrounding America’s aging pop- to continue working past the stan- workforce and the challenges and for Aging and Community is one moting older adults as communi- ulation. dard retirement age. opportunities that businesses face of Indiana’s leading gerontology ty and family assets and improv- The funding in the 2005 Omni- On the work issue, the center as the baby boom generation pon- centers, with programming to help ing their quality of life in India- bus Appropriations bill will support has organized an upcoming con- ders retirement. The conference community organizations serve napolis and beyond. efforts in the center’s two key fo- ference for business leaders and has been approved for 2.5 recerti- older adults effectively. Using an For more information on the cus areas: Aging in Place, which service providers, “Managing the fication credit hours toward PHR interdisciplinary approach that Center for Aging & Community, details the need for community- 21st Century Workplace,” 8 a.m. and SPHR recertification through draws from the University of In- visit http://cac.uindy.edu. Parker-Sawyers named director of new Indiana State Office of Faith-Based and Community Initiatives INDIANAPOLIS – Indiana Gov- en success records,” he told re- previous activities of FaithWorks Center at Indiana University-Pur- neighborhood residents, helped ernor Mitch Daniels has named an porters. Indiana and the Commission on due University Indianapolis (IU- create a diversity cabinet involv- Indianapolis community service The former Indianapolis-Mar- Volunteerism and Community Ser- PUI) since September 2001. There, ing students, faculty and staff and leader of the Polis Center as his ion City-County Council member vice are being consolidated into this she directed the Spirit and Place trained more than 600 people in first director for the Office of is the first black woman named to new initiative. The office will serve Festival, an annual citywide collab- six cities in Indiana and Michigan Faith-Based and Community Ini- a top position in Daniels’ admin- as a link for Hoosiers to learn about oration of more than 150 commu- about the responsibilities of a non- tiatives. istration. According to press re- opportunities to participate in state nity organizations highlighting the profit board of directors. Paula Parker-Sawyers will ports, she is a Baptist. government and to share informa- humanities, arts and religious tra- “We have a strong history of lead the state’s effort to strength- “Hoosiers are helpers, and their tion with more people about suc- ditions in central Indiana. volunteerism in Indiana, and I’ll en volunteerism and community spirit of volunteerism and commu- cessful faith-based and communi- Prior to her work at the Polis work under the governor’s direc- service and to increase partner- nity service is second to none. We ty-based programs. Parker-Sawyers Center, she was the director of a na- tion to create more opportunity to ing opportunities with faith-based are a state full of people who pitch became director of this new office tional pilot known as the Friendly impact and improve volunteer- organizations. in to get things done, and Paula on Feb. 11. Access Program at the Health and ism,” said Parker-Sawyers. “Com- While Indiana has had Faith- will harness that activity to create She told news reporters that she Hospital Corporation of Marion munity activism and volunteerism Works, a state office intended to a statewide structure that encour- will “make sure we protect the County. She also held multiple po- is a way of life for many and we help religious groups compete for ages sharing of the best practices separation between church and sitions at IUPUI, including special can use their efforts to improve our social-services contracts, Daniels and cultivates more volunteer op- state, yet at the same time recog- assistant to the IUPUI chancellor, communities.” said the new office will be more portunities,” said the governor. nize Hoosiers have in their hearts director of the Office of Neighbor- Parker-Sawyers served on the effective. Daniels signed an executive or- the sense of wanting to help each hood Resources and the director of council from 1976 to 1983 and as “We do know that in areas like der in January to create the Office other, and it’s not limited to out- Leadership Works. deputy mayor for Mayor William drug and other addictions, reha- of Faith-Based and Community In- side the church.” Through these efforts she has Hudnut from 1989 to 1991. She is bilitation and prison settings, itiatives, which will have a direct Parker-Sawyers has served as worked to improve relationships a lifelong resident of Indianapolis faith-based programs have prov- relationship with his office. The the associate director of the Polis between the campus and nearby and is married with three children. University offers non-credit courses online INDIANAPOLIS – By popular Personal Enrichment, Personal Fi- adults to earn college degrees in demand, the School for Adult nance, Sales and Marketing, Busi- Subjects include fitness, arts, language, an accelerated format. Its Super- Learning at the University of Indi- ness Administration, Grant Writing visory Institute and Leadership/ anapolis is now offering affordable and Career Development. A com- careers, finance and more. Management Institute have served non-credit courses via the Internet. plete catalog of courses is available the training and developmental The online offerings cover a online at www.ed2go.com/uindy. needs of the greater Indianapolis broad range of subjects for individ- The instructor-facilitated ipation can take place anytime, courses require Internet and e-mail community for more than 50 years. uals seeking new, personal and courses are informative, fun, con- from the home or office. The access, using either the Netscape For more information on any of business skills. Current topics in- venient and highly interactive. courses are project-oriented and Navigator or Microsoft Internet the programs offered by the clude Computer/Internet, Digital Each course runs for six weeks include lessons, quizzes, hands-on Explorer browsers. School for Adult Learning, call Photography, Foreign Languages, with new lessons posted each assignments, discussion areas, The University of Indianapolis 317-788-3393 or visit http:// Art History, Fitness, Family and Wednesday and Friday, so partic- supplementary links and more. All School for Adult Learning allows sal.uindy.edu. Wayne Township pastor receives chief’s award INDIANAPOLIS – The Rev. for the spiritual and emotional uncommon to see Reverend David Powell of the Chapel Hill health of the firefighters. He is Powell sitting around the table Dyer needs shoes United Methodist Church re- called upon at all hours to support at a fire station having coffee, Dyer United Methodist Tiffany Taylor, director of ceived the Chief’s Award on Feb. firefighers or the families of fire- talking shop or riding along on Church is in the process of col- the Buckner SOS project, says 12 from the Wayne Township Fire fighters who may be in the hospi- an emergency response,” said lecting shoes for the Shoes For that the drive “meets a desper- Department on the west side of tal or who suffer a calamity and Batza. “The Chaplain’s white Orphan Souls drive. The mis- ate need for children living in Indianapolis. helps all to weather the storm. helmet is a welcome sight at an sions committee has undertak- orphanages overseas.” According to Battalion Chief “In one of the most sincere incident scene.” en this challenge and have col- She noted that, while the pro- Rick Batza, “This high honor is forms of flattery, he has been ac- Before coming to Wayne lected over 100 pairs of shoes gram has expanded in recent given only once a year by the Fire cepted by this group of public Township, Powell was active as but are far below their goal of years, “Unfortunately, the needs Chief to an individual who dem- servants who allow only a spe- chaplain of the police department 500 pairs. among orphanages only contin- onstrates leadership and service to cial few into their midst. It is not in Zionsville, Ind. Tim Delahunty, Dyer UMC ue to grow. That is why it’s more the department.” Missions Chair, hopes to reach important than ever for us to col- Batza says as head of its chap- Africa University choir coming to this goal before Easter. “There lect new shoes.” Local church lain’s program in this diverse com- are so many kids in need, this and school drives are crucial to munity, Powell responds to crisis Indiana this summer is really a worthwhile cause,” the success of this program. For situations day and night . In addi- The Africa University Choir will be performing Sat., July 16 at Christ said Delahunty. information call 219-865-8947. tion to attending fires, sudden United Methodist, S. 18th St. and County Rd. 350 S. in Lafayette. The deaths or disasters, he also cares performance will begin at 8 p.m. Hoosier United INDIANA Methodists 5 www.inareaumc.org together Real life hero Hotel Rwanda to speak at DePauw April 25 By Ken Owen age, perseverance and hope. the course of 100 days, almost one came a refuge for those fleeing the informed. Now today you are in- Paul Rusesabagina will deliver million people were killed in Rwan- violence. When the wave of vio- formed and again it is happening – GREENCASTLE, Ind. – The man The Timothy and Sharon Ubben da. Hotel Rwanda tells the inspir- lence was over, 1,268 people who are you not going to take action? whose hero- Lecture, “Hotel Rwanda: A Lesson ing story of real-life hero Paul Rus- were sheltered at the hotel were Today, Rusesabagina owns a ic story is Yet to Be Learned,” at 7:30 p.m. in esabagina, who is portrayed in the still alive because of Rusesabagi- transportation company and is in- the basis of Kresge Auditorium of DePauw’s movie by Don Cheadle. na’s compassion and cunning. volved in charitable organizations the Acade- Performing Arts Center. The event The motion picture that Peter “It was worse than what you saw aiding survivors of the Rwandan my Award- is co-sponsored by DePauw’s Of- Travers of Rolling Stone called “a on screen,” the 50-year-old Ruse- tragedy. He is in the process of nominated fice of Academic Affairs. Like all film of rare courage and imperish- sabagina says. “When you see all setting up a foundation for fur- film Hotel Ubben Lectures, the speech is free able heart,” was nominated for around the road, both sides, dead ther assistance. Rusesabagina Rwanda is and open to the public. three Academy Awards. (See re- bodies, and you hear noises of peo- served as special consultant to scheduled Ten years ago, as the country of view in February issue of Togeth- ple being killed, and there are peo- United Artists and Lion’s Gate to visit the Rwanda descended into madness, er, p. 17 or read online at www. ple passing with machetes and Films’ production of the hit film, DePauw Rusesabagina Rusesabagina made a promise to inareaumc.org.) machine guns...The message of our Hotel Rwanda. University protect the family he loved – and A middle-class Hutu married to movie is to say – look, this hap- For more information about campus on Monday, April 25 to ended up finding the courage to a Tutsi and the father of four chil- pened in Rwanda ten years ago. the lecture or DePauw, log on to share his story of humanity, cour- save more than 1,200 people. Over dren, Rusesabagina’s hotel be- The people of the world were not www.depauw.edu. North Conference names Albert as new VIM coordinator Leininger to serve as interim Bonnie Albert of Chesterton Appalachian Service Project. was named the new North Indi- She also has served as Dean director of anti-gambling coalition ana Conference Volunteers in and Assistant Dean of the Mid- The Rev. John Wolf, retiring Wolf to lead the new ecumeni- ed to Brownsburg. Mission Coordinator. west Regional School of Chris- director of The Indiana Coalition cal coalition at that time. The Indiana Coalition Against Interested in missions since tian Mission. She retired in June Against Legalized Gambling, re- Leininger, of Brownsburg, re- Legalized Gambling is an ecu- youth, Bonnie and her husband 2004 from 30 years of teaching cently announced tired from active min- menical group of mainline and of 45 years, Gene, have been on high school math. She may be that the Rev. Harold istry this past year. He independent Protestant denomi- five international VIM trips to contacted by calling 219-464- Leininger, a retired had served Calvary nations in Indiana which have Chile, Russia, Zimbabwe (twice) 1447 or by e-mail at pastor of the South United Methodist actively fought attempts by the and Ukraine, as well as with the [email protected]. Indiana Conference, Church at Brownsburg state to first introduce legalized will begin April 1 as since 1986. He was or- gambling and now to check the Needed – Bibles for inmates a one-year interim di- dained an Elder in the expansion of legalized gambling Many inmates in our jails and International Version (NIV). rector of ICALG. North Indiana Confer- in Indiana. prisons are looking for a way out The SIC Prison and Jail Min- Leininger was ence in 1960 and has As interim director, Leininger – not a way out of jail, but a way istry Committee will have a col- chosen by Bishop Leininger served churches in hopes to strengthen the coalition out of their lifestyles, a way to faith lection box at Annual Conference Michael Coyner to Forth Wayne, Ander- by expanding its activity, fund- in Jesus Christ. To do this, they at Bloomington in June. Please lead the coalition begun ten years son, Decatur, Waynedale, Koko- ing and influence in its resistance need God’s word, the Holy Bible. help by bringing paperback ago at the direction of Bishop mo and University Heights in In- to a strong gambling lobby with Because of that Bibles to donate. If you Woodie W. White, who chose dianapolis before being appoint- state government. need, the Prison would like to make a and Jail Ministry monetary donation Committee of the to this cause, send Cedar Lake church dedicates parking lot South Indiana a check payable The Rev. David Schrader, Calumet Distist Super- answered through a grant from the Calumet Mission- Conference Board to South Indiana intendent, the Rev. Tom Shanahan, and the Robert ary Society of the Calumet District UMC,” said Shra- of Church and Soci- Conference, Carnahan, administrative council chairperson, along der. Fred Hahn, owner of Hahn Trucking and a mem- ety is collecting paper-back 1520 S. Liberty with members of the Cedar Lake United Methodist ber of the Cedar Lake church, did the paving work. Bibles to distribute to jail and Dr., Bloomington, IN Church, in Cedar Lake, Ind. dedicated its recently The Cedar Lake UMC has many elderly members. prison inmates throughout Indi- 47403, attn: Prison/Jail Minis- paved parking lot during its fall 2004 charge confer- The paved lot makes it easier for them to walk. Also, ana. tries. For more information, send ence annual meeting. the church sponsors a food pantry where many of The Bibles must be paperback e-mail to [email protected] or call “This project had been a dream of the the clients are elderly and or handicapped, and hav- to be acceptable to correctional the conference office at 800-919- congregation for many years and their prayers were ing the paved lot is safer for them. facilities. Preferred is the New 8160. Clarian West Medical Center opens smoothly INDIANAPOLIS – United Methodist-related Clarian West traditions to emerge in Clarian West’s short history: When and the staff understood how to utilize them to provide Medical Center officially opened for business Dec. 14. By a baby is born, a few bars of “Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star” remarkable patient care from day one. We were able to the end of that day, the hospital had logged its first patient, play over the PA system announcing the good news. function confidently and efficiently, a testament to the enor- its first ED visit, its first surgery, and its first rehabilitation mous amount of work done both behind the scenes and in appointment. Always prepared training to prepare us to open our doors.” But it was day number two that really opened some eyes. Clarian West underwent its initial State Board of Health “The system in the ER is pretty cool, a lot more tech- “We had anticipated in many ways being able to ease survey on opening day, and its initial JCAHO survey four driven than what I used at other hospitals,” says Megan into our operation,” says Al Gatmaitan, Clarian West pres- weeks later. Crittendon, MD. “Clarian West is my professional home. ident and CEO. “However, on our second day, a nearby “Being prepared to be surveyed that soon was actually This is where I want to stay, so I decided to embrace the nursing home had to be evacuated when a water pipe burst, a good exercise for us,” says Lisa Sparks, quality/risk system and it has really made my life easier.” resulting in more than 20 patients being transported to our manager. “In addition to being yet another check and bal- Crittendon labels herself “tech-challenged,” but with emergency department and requiring care overnight. It was ance to make sure our processes and workflows are ap- the training she received before the hospital’s opening and truly a trial by fire – or water, as the case may be.” propriate to provide excellent care, we are cognizant that onsite support since its opening, she now considers her- announced surveys are a thing of the past, so we can focus self an advanced user. An eagerly anticipated “first” on constant preparedness out of the gate.” Clarian’s PACE (Partnering to Advance Clinical Ex- One of the most eagerly anticipated “firsts” at Clarian cellence) project provides the environment and tools West was the birth of a baby. The Maternity Center staff High-tech IS low maintenance through Cerner Solutions to simplify demands and allow had to wait a couple of days, but at 10:22 p.m. on Dec. 16, “From an IS perspective, the most significant story to health care professionals to deliver the best medical care. Abigail Wyndham entered the world at West. She was the come out of our opening is that there really is no story to hospital’s first child, and the Wyndams’ first, too. Abiga- tell,” says Gatmaitan. “A multitude of support personnel Learn more about Clarian West at west.clarian.org or il’s birth also launched what has become one of the first were in place to assist, yet the systems worked as designed link to West from the Clarian home page. Hoosier United 6 Methodists INDIANA together March 2005 School children provide health kits for tsunami relief By Laura McDonald them that such an event would not kits. A few of the chil- checks the bag and puts it in a box happen here, but it became clear dren asked their own to ship. After that, another will As a Deacon in full connection that they wanted to do something churches to help. count the kits in each box and of the South Indiana Conference, I concrete to help. I thought about The students have record the tally. Over 150 kits have serve both the church and the doing a collection of money. The been bringing items to been packed to ship, valued at $12 world. My secular ministry is serv- next day, however, I received my help Tsunami survi- each. ing as a music teacher at North Together and its plea from Church vors throughout the This has been a fun and hope- Harrison Elementary School in World Service for Health Kits. The last month. They are fully educational project for our Ramsey, Ind., west of New Albany faculty had a meeting the same assembled into Health students. It has kept them think- on state road 64. I think of it as day, approved the idea, and our Kits to ship through the ing about others in the world and having a congregation of 450 chil- project was launched. regional Church World helped them learn how to help. I dren, grades K-4. I have each child I set up a “sorting station” in Service center in Indi- am grateful that as a United Meth- in the school for a half hour or 45 one corner of my classroom, and anapolis. The kits con- odist Deacon I can initiate and Photo courtesy of Laura McDonald minutes twice weekly. Though I we sent home a letter with the chil- tain basic supplies for Ramsey, Ind. students assembled 150 health lead them in that process. Hope- cannot teach religion as such, I am dren. Response from children, personal hygiene: a kits for tsunami appeal. fully, this is one small way I can encouraged to and do teach values. parents, and staff was immediate. hand towel, washcloth, build a bridge between the world After Christmas, I was struck Most students brought supplies comb, nail clippers, soap, tooth- fore school for the first opportu- and the church – my special call- by how many children talked about and some brought completed kits. brush, toothpaste, and band-aids in nity to sort supplies and see the ing as a Deacon. the Tsunami disaster and the many One parent collected money at a plastic gallon zip bag. day’s donations. A few students Laura McDonald serves as an lives lost. Of course I reassured work and brought in 24 complete Getting to help sort and pack will sort donated items, then oth- ordained deacon and a music kits is a privilege the children ers assemble them in the plastic teacher at North Harrison El- work toward. Some come in be- bag. Another student then double- ementary School in Ramsey, Ind. Bishop Coyner and Governor Daniels share common Church was bright ray of hope in ground in first meeting Indiana flood disaster this winter INDIANAPOLIS – Bishop tains Presbyterian member- According to Pastor Paul Hunts- Michael J. Coyner paid a wel- ship. Coyner also assured man of Hazelton, “The United It was our connectional system that made managing come visit to Governor Mitch Daniels that he would be Methodist Church was the bright- Daniels Feb. 18 in his office at praying for him. est of many rays of hope. It was our the disaster and the ongoing cleanup possible. the state capitol. Coyner and The bishop’s visit was ar- connectional system that made Daniels spent half-an-hour get- ranged by State Senator Patri- managing the disaster and the on- ting acquainted with each oth- cia Miller, a member of Old Be- going cleanup possible.” Bethel UMC arrived with paper supplies and funds to meet out er and briefly discussed the thel UMC in Indianapolis. The Indiana Department of Natu- goods before breakfast was over and needs during the flood, Huntsman church’s position on issues such Coyner then toured the capitol ral Resources informed town officials even went to Evansville to purchase said. “Our needs were met at amaz- as gambling, smoking, and chil- with Miller who introduced on Sunday, Jan. 9 that they should more goods. Area churches supplied ing speed and with cheerful hearts. dren and poverty being consid- him to her staff and to Senator expect major flooding. National whatever was needed. I’m proud to be a United Method- ered by the General Assembly. Robert Garton, president pro Guard troops from Seymour came for Huntsman said, “When we need- ist! I know in my heart that no oth- Daniels told Coyner he tempore of the Senate and a sandbagging detail. By nightfall a ed water, Wheatland UMC brought er organization could have acted was baptized a Methodist in member of First UMC in Co- flood like the one of 1912, the larg- it. When we needed personal care with the speed of our church. his native Pennsylvania. His lumbus. Miller, a 22-year vet- est flood recorded on the White Riv- items for the National Guard and “No sooner did we have a need parents later joined a Presby- eran of the Senate, serves as er, was expected. The Guard stayed volunteers, Mt. Olive UMC turned than a United Methodist church terian church. Daniels main- assistant majority floor leader. with limited provisions. their Wednesday Bible Study into a was there to meet that need. Even By Monday, Jan. 10 women of the make-health-kits session.” our new Indiana Governor Mitch Hazelton UMC and town volunteers Terrell Thompson, a retired Daniels commented on how well had set up a dining hall in the Hazel- UMC pastor, drove 70 miles to we were organized and supplied,” Former Seelyville church ton Community Building. Huntsman meet a truck and pick up health kits Huntsman said. reported, “By evening we were serv- from the Midwest Mission Distri- The clean up in Hazelton con- gutted by fire ing meals to about 150 National bution Center in Chatham, Ill. tinues. So does the response of The Guard troops and many others from “When state officials deter- United Methodist Church. Accord- SEELYVILLE, Ind. – The town of While members of Seelyville various agencies now in town to help mined it was unsafe to have peo- ing to Huntsman, there is now a Seelyville awoke the morning of UMC were glad to hear it was not with directing traffic and the relief ple working on the levee without need to repair homes, replace lost Feb. 15 to the sounds of sirens and their current building that was de- efforts – a big job for a town of 200 life jackets, I called the Vincennes furniture and household items. He billows of smoke coming from the stroyed, there were bittersweet and a church of 100 members. District Office and the needed sup- said that the church continues to center of town. Word quickly memories tied to the news. Sever- “Monday night things took a turn plies arrived about two hours lat- meet the needs “with cheerfulness spread that the United Methodist al current members were married for the worse. The levee was in dan- er,” said Huntsman. and the love of God.” Church was on fire, and within 15 in the old church building, and ger of breaking. Half the town had The Brushwood UMC in Rens- Both South and North Indiana minutes of the first alarm, the phone many were baptized as children to be evacuated (including the com- selaer, Ind. called and sent $600 to Conferences received $10,000 in was ringing at the parsonage. there. Pictures of the congregation munity building) and the water sys- help with the food cost. emergency funds each from the Unit- A quick look out the parsonage in the 1940s and 1950s in front of tem was contaminated. We made ar- “I cannot possibly name each ed Methodist Committee on Relief windows assured Pastor Steven the old building adorn the library rangements for the affected fami- United Methodist Church that sent to assist in flood recovery efforts. Bahrt that what he was toldwas not walls in the new building. lies, shut off gas service to the completely correct. A farther look Margaret Manus, 75 and a life- homes and closed down the Com- to the west though spoke volumes long member of the congregation munity Building,” said Huntsman. New ministry focuses on growth – the former Methodist church since, says she was heartbroken by By daybreak on Tuesday, Jan. 11 building on Main Street was the fire, but admitted that the poor the Hazelton UMC had been trans- in town and rural churches ablaze and already a total loss. condition of the building reflect- formed. A wash stand stood beside A seminar on church growth in leaders and congregations by The blazing building had ed poorly on the congregation still the building’s front steps, two gen- town and rural churches will be helping them believe again and housed the Seelyville Methodist associated by many with the old erators were running outside to led by the Rev. Gary W. Exman sharing with them a roadmap for Church from 1904 until 1962, building. meet electrical needs, three porta- who has served The United Meth- growth. when the congregation moved into “Maybe now people will final- ble outside toilets sat in the back odist Church for 39 years. 25 of The Rushville District will host its larger building two blocks east ly look at who we are instead of parking lot, the kitchen bustled those years he was pastor of small- this experienced leader on Satur- on Second Street. Afterward, the at our old building,” said Manus. with cooks and hundreds of peo- town and rural churches. Exman day, March 19 at Grace UMC in building housed two other church While no one was injured in the ple were eating breakfast in the is the author of Beyond the Num- Connersville, Ind. congregations before being sold to blaze, the building and its contents basement fellowship hall. bers Game, a book about church For more information and reg- a private individual. The old are a total loss. According to press The Patoka UMC became the growth, that focuses on growth in istrations, please contact Sandy at church building housed a building reports, occupants of the old build- staging area for supplies. Pastor town and rural church settings. the Rushville District Office. Call remodeling contractor’s offices at ing may have been using it as a Greg Davis and others from the “Come and See Ministries” 800-919-8167. Registration dead- the time of the fire. place to make illegal drugs. church delivered needed provisions. collaborates with pastors, lay line is March 11. Hoosier United INDIANA Methodists 7 www.inareaumc.org together Smoking opponents voice views at capitol to support ITPC By Daniel R. Gangler er, related what the utes into the pro- death of her hus- cedure. This was INDIANAPOLIS – More than 125 partici- band, Gary, has an open-close pants, including United Methodists, of the meant to her person- case, full of can- statewide interfaith Hoosier Faith and ally. He died three cer, all related to Health Coalition heard hard facts and mov- years ago of cancer a smoking addic- ing testimonials about the effects of smok- at the age of 51 and tion that began in ing during a Valentine’s Day luncheon and had smoked since he adolescence,” then marched to the Indiana Statehouse to was 19. she told the quiet visit the governor and legislators in sup- “It’s not only the audience. port of the Indiana Tobacco Prevention and big things I miss and Sandifur Thorlton said Cessation Agency. my boys miss, but it’s the little things that she placed him in During the luncheon held at Christ Gary said he was going to miss. He said he hospice care. Church Cathedral, regretted that he wasn’t going to see his “He died quietly Dan Evans, CEO of sons get married or see his grandchildren. and peacefully at United Methodist-re- And of course those are the big things. home on Jan. 18, lated Clarian Health “There are so many little things, like hid- 2000. Age 52.” Partners, said, “One ing notes in his pants, or handing him a Phil- She continued, of the shortcomings lips screwdriver when he asked for a flat “He charged to Together phot by Erma Metzler of the anti-smoking one, or saying, ‘Hey Lorene, slow down, me to say ‘if you Dan Gangler reprenting the Hoosier Faith and Health Coalition presents movement is that we this isn’t a race.’ I miss growing old together are smoking, Ellen Whitt of Govenor Daniles’ staff a letter to Daniels signed by coali- tion members on Feb. 14. have spent a great with him. And I especially miss praying to- quit; if you deal of time talking gether, thanking the Lord for our blessings. aren’t, don’t with each other. We Evans “My husband, Gary, was so committed start. Try to help someone else.’ What we Prevention and Cessation Agency to the don’t need to convince each other. We need to talking to kids about not smoking in his shared together was a touching journey.” Centers for Disease Control recommended to convince others for a variety of reasons last months. He spoke from his heart and Other testimonials were given by the $32.5 million level. Last year ITPC re- – economics, personal addiction, politics, he spoke out of love. He took the time to Rev. Samuel Ruiz of the Lutheran Church ceived $10.8 million and had to cut their insufficient resources. Those are the peo- share his story with every kid he saw smok- Missouri Synod; Dr. Sayyid Syeed, secre- program drastically. Advocates also talked ple we have to talk to.” ing whether at a restaurant, a store, at a town tary general of the Islamic Society of North with and gave information to state senators In his 15-minute pep talk, Evans told the hall meeting,” Sandifur said. America; and Rabbi Lew Weiss, a chaplain and representatives about supporting ITPC anti-smoking advocates that they need to Parish Nurse Pa- at Methodist Hospital of the Indianapolis funding. be direct with politicians about smoking tricia Thorlton, of Hebrew Congregation. Later in the day, issues. “We are down to power now, not Greenwood United Aaron Doeppers, re- persuasion. Persuasion will not work… We Methodist Chruch Cost is enormous gional director of the have to take them to the action step, and and program coordi- During the luncheon, Dr. Richard Feld- Tobacco Free Kids the next step, and tell them that there will nator for parish nurs- man, director of the residency program at campaign and spon- be a political consequence for not doing the ing and health minis- St. Francis Hospital Family Practice Cen- sor of the luncheon right thing. You won’t vote for them. Your tries at Clarian, for ter, said that cirgarette smoking now claims meal, was able with neighbors won’t vote for them. That’s from the first time public- the greatest cause of preventable deaths in the assistance of whence their power comes. And that’s from ly told the story of her the United States. He said government re- Rep. Vaneta Becker whence they take their orders.” brother’s death due to Thorlton ports show that more than 10,200 Hoosiers of Evansville to Evans mentioned the steps that have life-long smoking. die of smoking related diseases each year. present on the floor Doeppers been taken at Clarian Health to provide a In October 1998 her brother became Tobacco use in Indiana cost Hoosiers $1.6 of the House of Rep- smoke-free hospital environment that will short of breath during a state cross country billion a year in health care expenditures. resentatives an award recognizing Rep. soon spread to the Clarian campus as well. meet at Indiana University. The next day Indiana spends a total of $380 million each William Crawford of Indianapolis, former He also reported that more than 2,000 of he was admitted to Union Hospital in Terre year along for Medicaid payments caused chairman of the House Ways an Means the 12,000 Clarian employees are now un- Haute and found he had cancer. by tobacco use. Committee, for his efforts last year in der managed personal health care. Many “The cardiologist stood in front of me maintaining ITPC. In presenting the of 2,000 are now in smoking cessation pro- and said boldly, ‘your brother has lung can- At the capitol award, Rep. Becker, mentioned the impor- grams. cer. He is full of it. What do you want to Following the luncheon, many of the ad- tant work of both TFK and the Hoosier do?’ My answer – ‘I’m going to take him vocated went to the capitol and presented Faith and Health Coalition. Personal testimonies to Indianapolis to IU.’ I took him by ambu- to Ellen Whitt, Governor Mitch Daniels’ Doeppers reported on Feb. 15 that the During the program, two women shared lance that evening. Surgery was scheduled deputy chief-of-staff, signed resolutions House Ways and Means committee report- their personal stories of watching loved for the next day. The surgery was supposed from 234 congregations and religious ed out the budget which included the con- ones die as a result of life-long smoking. to be three to four hours. The surgeon ap- groups across the state that asked him to tinuation of current $10 million funding Lorene Sandifur, a Kokomo school teach- proached me in the waiting room 40 min- restore full funding to the Indiana Tobacco levels for ITPC. House public policy committee votes down gambling bill INDIANAPOLIS – Good news haps in reference to HB1702 an- 13 to 0. The bill would require the from the Indiana State House of other gambling bill). department of gaming research to Other proposals to expand gambling in a Representatives Committee on The sense of the committee was study the impact of gaming in In- Public Policy and Veterans Af- that raising revenue for a new sta- diana on Indiana’s citizens and similar way could come in later as riders to fairs. The committee voted down dium and the expansion of the In- communities. The bill was strong- existing bills. HB1569 by a 7-4 margin. This bill dianapolis Convention Center ly supported by the Indiana Coali- would have permitted the expan- through gambling revenues in oth- tion Against Legalized Gambling. sion of gambling by allowing In- er counties was inappropriate. Meanwhile, the Indiana House RCA Dome. The bill called for in- portions of the measure could diana’s two horse racing tracks to Gambling opponents warned that Ways and Means Committee vot- creases in Marion County hotel threaten the 30-year lease agree- install up to 2,500 slot machines this bill defeated in committee ed a finance package to fund the and car rental taxes, a $10 ticket ment between the city and the each. As it came to the commit- does not mean this is absolutely building of a new stadium in Indi- tax and new fees on player sala- Colts. tee, HB1569 was written to pro- the last word on gambling in the anapolis without the expansion of ries and luxury suites. Indianapolis Mayor Bart Peter- vide funds from gambling to build General Assembly this session. gambling. Chairman Jeff Espich, HB1846 died in the House be- son will continue pushing for $23 a new stadium in Indianapolis, Other proposals to expand gam- R-Uniondale, unveiled the measure cause it was not considered before million in annual Convention replacing the RCA Dome where bling in a similar way could come Feb. 23, calling it a partnership midnight March 1. Senate President Center funding. The Indiana casi- the Indianapolis Colts play. in later as riders to existing bills. among the state, the city and those Pro Tempore Robert Garton told no industry raised concerns about According to the Indianapolis In other related legislative ac- who benefit most from the stadi- news sources that there is support increasing riverboat taxes, and the Star, Rep. Bob Alderman, R – Fort tion, HB1342 , a bill to provide um – the team, the players and fans. for a new stadium in the Senate. state horse-racing industry was Wayne, committee chairman, fur- research on the impact of gaming, This stadium plan would have The bill would have left India- upset that a drive to put slot ma- ther stated that he doesn’t want to passed the House Public Policy raised $44 million a year to fund napolis short by roughly $5 mil- chines at the state’s two horse see any more bills like this, (per- and Veteran’s Affairs Committee a 63,000-seat stadium south of the lion a year for the stadium, and tracks stalled. Hoosier United 8 Methodists NATIONAL together March 2005 Houston gathering helps local churches become ‘healthy’ By Matthew Oates

HOUSTON – More than 1,300 Healthy churches are about building, laity and clergy leaders of The strengthening and commissioning United Methodist Church de- disciples, as well as being involved in scended upon Houston’s Hilton of the Americas for a four-day work- society’s numerous facets. shop designed to make the denom- ination “healthy.” “Healthy Churches: Trans- to our Wesleyan heritage,” said nomination’s largest church with forming the World” included pow- Albert. more than 15,000 members, rent- erful guest preachers, numerous Al Bohnstedt, chair of the ed the adjacent Toyota Center for worship services, 84 workshop North Indiana Conference’s a service that announced a multi- and training sessions for annual Council on Ministries and mem- million dollar building project that conference and local congrega- ber of Fort Wayne Good Shepherd will bring its numerous facilities tional leaders of annual confer- UMC, shared one of the memora- and ministries onto one property. ence, banquets and mission oppor- ble moments of the conference Other members attended St. tunities during its run from Jan. came in Griffiths’ talk. “His focus John’s Downtown UMC, which 27-30. A UMNS photo by Billy Reeder. on Wesley’s ministry and especial- was featured throughout the con- During the opening worship United Methodists attend a worship service during a Houston confer- ly that of his ‘Foundry’ ministry ference as a healthy church. The service, the Rev. Leslie Griffiths, ence on building healthy congregations. Some 1,300 people attended called me to look at our roots and Revs. Rudy and Juanita Rasmus dean of Wesley’s Chapel in Lon- the training event, “Healthy Churches Transforming the World,” spon- see what needs can be met in to- were assigned there in August don, called on attendees to “Re- sored by the United Methodist Board of Discipleship. day’s world by ministering in a 1992 with the job of closing down member the Foundry,” reminding responsible for helping build cipleship. ‘Foundry’ sense.” the church of nine members. It the Methodists to return to John healthy local churches that are tru- Bonnie Albert, Volunteers in With times of sharing, network- now has more than 9,600 mem- Wesley’s roots of social justice, ly making disciples of Jesus Christ Mission conference coordinator ing and learning, Bohnstedt bers and numerous social minis- education, inclusive worship and for the transformation of the and a member of Valparaiso First learned about numerous vital and tries to the homeless and low-in- outreach to all. world,” said the Rev. Karen UMC, came away from the con- active churches across the United come area residents; almost 3,000 Throughout the conference, Greenwaldt, top executive at the ference feeling “renewed, in- States, as well as how other annu- of the members do not have an speakers continually called for United Methodist General Board formed, awakened and reminded al conferences are facing restruc- address. churches to remember why they of Discipleship, in an interview just how great it is to belong to a turing issues and activity. During Saturday lunch, sever- are in business – to make disci- with the United Methodist News connectional church.” “Following the conference I al conference members took a ples – and ask “How’s business?” Service. During the conference Albert have felt a great deal of confidence McDonald’s break and purchased and be involved in numerous so- “Sadly, however, some of our networked with others involved in in the manner in which we have more than 300 meals to distrib- cial issues facing not only the churches aren’t so healthy,” she VIM and the General Board of prepared and proceeded with our ute to about 300 homeless peo- church itself, but also society. said. “We want our churches to be Global Ministries and its numer- work. It should give our work ple in a nearby area. About 100 Healthy churches are more than growing, vital and relevant to the ous ministries, as well as new more vitality as we work with lo- homeless men and women and large numbers of members, high needs of the community they ways to use music and how to cal church expectations,” said children accepted invitations to attendance and good finances: serve. And we want conference tackle tough issues without break- Bohnstedt. be guests at the conference’s clos- they are about building, strength- leaders to have the best collection ing relationships. ing dinner, worship and com- ening and commissioning disci- of resources to build these healthy “I hope that we can use the en- Visited Houston churches munion ceremony. ples, as well as being involved in churches. ergy and spirit to reach my local In addition to attending work- Matthew Oates, a member of society’s numerous facets. Delegations from the North church and the churches that I shops, conference members visit- Trinity UMC in Lafayette, was a and South Indiana conferences work with the message that the ed numerous Houston area member of the North Indiana del- Some church aren’t were in attendance at the confer- connectional system really can churches to see a wide variety of egation to the conference. The healthy ence, sponsored by the denomi- make a difference in our world but worship styles and missions. United Methodist News Service pro- “As conference leaders, we are nation’s General Board of Dis- we (individuals) must be faithful Windsor Village UMC, the de- vided information for this report. Native American women cited as one of most neglected The United Methodist Wom- American women as one of the suicide and poverty rates are at en’s Division Office of Public most neglected populations in the disproportionately high numbers: Suicide and poverty rates are at Policy is urging its one-million United States. The report states “Suicide is second highest member organization to become that years of violence, disease and cause of death for American Indi- disproportionately high numbers. involved in advocacy with Native unjust government policies have ans and Alaska Natives age 15 to American women. created the problems. 24 and the third cause of death for The office released an action According to the Friends Com- Native American children age 10 ♦ Greater enforcement of equal ♦ Recruitment of Native Ameri- alert this week citing Native mittee on National Legislation, to 14. Native Americans have opportunity laws and recruit- can female candidates into po- among the highest rates of diabe- ment of Native American litical parties. tes and chronic kidney failure. The women into training and edu- The Women’s Division Office Appeal date set for former poverty rate on Native American cation programs for jobs not of Public Policy provides month- reservations is 31 percent, the traditionally held by women. ly action alerts on issues affecting clergywoman who lost credentials highest poverty rate in America. ♦ Living wage laws and raising women and children that are of Approximately 46 percent of Na- minimum wages, that would concern to the denomination. The An April 28 hearing date has avowed practicing homosexu- tive Americans are unemployed.” particularly help Native Ameri- Division represents United Meth- been set for the appeal of a als” in the ordained ministry. For Native American women, can women as they are more odist Women, a one-million mem- former United Methodist cler- Since losing her clergy creden- the problem worsens. According likely to be in low-wage work. ber organization whose purpose is gywoman who lost her creden- tials, she has remained on staff to the report, a large percent are ♦ Tribally designed economic to foster spiritual growth, devel- tials after a church trial. The at that church as a lay member. earning less than white women, development strategies and re- op leaders and advocate for jus- hearing for Beth Stroud will be The December trial was con- are less educated, are living in inforced tribal sovereignty. tice. Members raise approximate- 9 a.m. to noon at the Sheraton ducted by the Eastern Pennsyl- poverty and do not have access to ♦ Affirmative action to encour- ly $25 million a year for programs International Hotel on the vania Conference, which is a decent healthcare. age higher education for and projects related to women, grounds of Baltimore-Washing- part of the denomination’s The action alert highlights women and increased invest- children and youth in the United ton Airport. Stroud, who was Northeastern Jurisdiction. The ideas from “The Status of Wom- ment in tribal-colleges. States and in more than 100 coun- serving as associate pastor of jurisdiction’s committee on ap- en in the States,” a report written ♦ Policies that reduce barriers to tries around the world. First UMC of Germantown in peals will hear the appeal. The by the Institute for Women’s Pol- Native American women’s ac- The Division is urging mem- Philadelphia, was found guilty committee will meet in private icy Research. It recommends pub- cess to health resources, includ- bers to read the full article at http:/ Dec. 2 of violating the denom- on April 27 to consider ques- lic and private policies to improve ing health insurance, preventive /gbgm-umc.org/umw/ ination’s prohibition of “self- tions for the hearing. – UMNS the status of women, including: care and screenings for disease. wdnews.cfm?articleid=2962. Hoosier United NATIONAL Methodists 9 www.inareaumc.org together Pastor composes anthem to help with tsunami relief efforts Tsunami prayer Words and Music by By Suzy Keenan theology and practice of worship soprano, alto, tenor, and bass voic- at Eastern Seminary. es with male and female soloists Kenneth L. Morrison When Ken Morrison heard the “This is a story of human need,” and has accompaniment for piano (Written January 5, 2005 to encourage prayer and news of the devastation of the tsu- said Morrison. “Our missions agen- and strings. nami in South Asia, he could do cies will invite teams to raise funds “I have been writing songs for support for the victims of the tsunami on December 26, nothing but sit down. to help with relief efforts. I hope that worship my whole career;” Mor- 2004. First performed at Sanctuary United Methodist Morrison, a com- this anthem will be help- rison said. His education includes Church in North Wales, PA on January 16, 2005.) poser and United ful to congregations as a Bachelor of Science in Music Methodist pastor who they gather teams togeth- from Millsaps College, a Master resides in the Philadel- er to pray for the victims of Divinity from Asbury Theolog- Lamb of God, hear us in our sorrow; catch the tears from waves phia area, sat down at and support relief efforts ical Seminary in Wilmore, Ky., that washed away tomorrows. Once you crossed a raging sea; the piano, feeling a of The United Method- and a Doctor of Ministry from stand with those whose pain we see. Jesus, Jesus. melody stir in his heart. ist Committee on Relief Candler School of Theology at Lamb of God, give our bread to others; heal the sick, let them Out of a heart for the (UMCOR).” Emory University in Atlanta. drink pure water. Send the miracles they need; help us love in victims of the tsunami By Jan. 6, Morrison For the last year and a half he word and deed. and their suffering, he was rehearsing “Tsuna- had been composing choral music Bind the broken hearted with cords of human care; show a world wrote and set a prayer Morrison mi Prayer” with the choir and praise and worship music full- who doubts you the truth, you are there. Give ev’ry child lov- to the melody. His com- at Sanctuary UMC, and time. He received an award from ing arms, healing hands. Give ev’ry parent the strength to go position became “Tsunami Prayer,” the composition premiered on the Broadjam (a Web community) for on. Jesus, Jesus. a new choral anthem. Morrison has morning of Sunday, Jan. 16 during his composition, “That’s What He Lamb of God, open wide the heavens; save the weak, fill their made it available for free printing worship. The anthem was accompa- Did,” a theological reflection on souls with leaven; send them miracles they need, help us love and performance by church and nied by projected scenes of survivors losses of people in the military in word and deed. school choirs who want to encour- and relief efforts. based on a family story. age prayer and support for the vic- Jim Carver, Senior Pastor of “Tsunami Prayer” and other Lord, have mercy; Christ, have mercy. (REPEATED) tims of the Dec. 26 tsunami. Sanctuary UMC, said that he was anthems by Morrison are available Lamb of God, have mercy upon us we pray; take all our sins Morrison, a member of the captivated by the rhythms of the at www.sing4free.com. away. (REPEATED) Desert Southwest Annual Confer- anthem. “It is almost haunting as “Tsunami Prayer” is also avail- Lord, have mercy; Christ, have mercy, ence, formerly served as interim it is being sung, befitting the in- able on www.gbod.org/worship/. pastor of Sanctuary UMC in credible devastation of that region, For more information, contact Lamb of God, hear us as we pray. North Wales, Pa. He now volun- yet it is filled with hope. The song Ken Morrison at email teers there as part of the music captured the hope we have in God, [email protected]. TSUNAMI PRAYER ministry team, though he works as and it acknowledged the miracles Suzy Keenan serves as direc- Copyright 2005 by Kenneth L. Morrison a fulltime songwriter and teaches that are unfolding even in the tor of communications for The All Rights Reserved conflict resolution at Eastern midst of this great tragedy.” Eastern Pennsylvania Conference School of Christian Ministry and The composition is written for of The United Methodist Church. Training event aims at changing Peace is still important, says church lifestyles in America women’s organization With the commemorating of WORTHINGTON, Ohio – “Living bers from the church may attend Lent and violence in Iraq continu- Women and Our Promise,” an Igniting Ministry the other two tracks in order to ing, The United Methodist Wom- training event aimed at helping lo- cover each session and explore all en’s Division tries again to bring church members cal United Methodist congregations the information and resources. issues of violence to the attention learn about marketing themselves and honing their wel- The tracks are: also are urged to log coming skills, is scheduled for Saturday, April 16, at ♦ Starting Out, which includes an overview of the of world leaders. their prayers online Bethel United Methodist Church in Columbus, Ohio. basics of welcoming, inviting, and discipling. It Representing United Method- The training session offers three training tracks, also introduces the Planning Kit, a collection of ist Women, the division will con- at http://gbgm- using the resources and ideas of The United Meth- resources intended to guide a congregation in set- tinue its Prayer for Peace cam- umc.org/umw/ odist Church’s Igniting Ministry media campaign. ting up a local advertising and welcoming effort; paign, begun more than two years “These training options will help more of our ♦ Moving On, which offers existing Igniting Min- ago. This year they will take the churches connect with Igniting Ministry and equip a istry teams and leaders new ideas, plans and train- prayers and concerns to the me- She says this powerful message greater number of local congregations to effectively ing options, and introduces a small-group video dia to ensure the public doesn’t spans beyond the Iraq borders. share messages of hope, comfort and inspiration in their study series, Beyond 30 Seconds: Developing a forget that war rages on and peo- “As violence continues across communities,” said the Rev. Larry Hollon, top execu- Welcoming Congregation; ple are still dying. The hope is that the globe, we need to pray for tive of United Methodist Communications, which co- ♦ Living Up, which is aimed at helping churches if enough women say that peace an end to this current war and a ordinates the campaign and the training sessions. interested in reshaping their community iden- is still important, government curb on a possible next war – Leading the session at Columbus, Ohio will be tity to find ways, individually and corporately, leaders will listen. anywhere in the world – locally Kay Panovec, director of communications for the to live up to the “open hearts, open minds, open Women and church members or globally. When we pray for East Ohio Conference of The United Methodist doors” promise expressed in the denomination’s also are urged to log their and stand for peace, we pray and Church; the Rev. Joey Reed, pastor of South Pleas- commercials. prayers online at http://gbgm- stand against all conditions, ant Grove UMC in Hazel, Ky.; and Christopher Local churches are encouraged to send a mini- umc.org/umw/. mentalities and institutions that Hudson, communications consultant and United mum of three church leaders, including the pastor, When United Methodist Wom- breed and nurture war and injus- Methodist lay member of Oklahoma City. to the session. Registration fee is $40 for each par- en and church members hold tice,” Lee says. “We have a great opportunity to help our church- ticipating congregation, plus $10 per person for lunch prayer for peace vigils, the Wom- “On the beginning of this third es live up to Igniting Ministry’s advertising,” said and snacks. Deadline for registration is April 1. en’s Division will contact local year of prayers for peace, we call Tom Slack, West Ohio Conference Director of Com- Igniting Ministry is designed to support and en- media outlets with the stories on munication, the event’s host. “This event assists our courage local churches to become active partners in on the whole church to keep the behalf of the local women. Sung- leaders to be actively welcoming by beginning at reaching out to unchurched people and creating re- faith and continue actions of their own level of experience and knowledge. Ignit- newed enthusiasm among members. The May 2004 Ok Lee, executive for community prayers for peace,” Lee says. ing Ministry works! That’s why it’s so exciting to General Conference authorized United Methodist action says our hope is that local Lee says that the prayers are offer Living Our Promise in central Ohio.” Communications to continue coordinating Igniting news outlets will pick up the con- tangible representations of peo- The three tracks allow churches to participate in Ministry and creating the TV commercials being used. cern of its readers, listeners and ple’s faith. Sharing these prayers the event regardless of previous knowledge or ex- More information on the training event and addi- viewers, run the stories and cre- with the world is a witness to perience with this ministry. Each person attending tional components of the effort is available from the ate a groundswell of public mo- faith in God’s movement in the will choose one track that starts in the morning and Web site www.ignitingministry.org or from the Ig- mentum that urges leaders to act world and ability to make mira- concludes in the afternoon. Additional team mem- niting Ministry offices, toll free at 877-281-6535. for peace. cles happen. Hoosier United 10 Methodists ECUMENICAL together March 2005 World council seeks new vision for new century By Linda Bloom and for more effective manage- “Transformation must be rooted in the ment of such crises in the future,” Members of the World Coun- and it insists on a greater role for cil of Churches’ Central Commit- conversion to the source of our lives and the United Nations in helping Ira- tee want a new vision for a new the life of all creation, the Triune God whom qis gain control of their country. century. In other action, central commit- Efforts to shape a new ecumen- we confess together.” tee members: ical vision, as well as confront the – Samuel Kobia ♦ Called on churches to urge world’s continuing crises, topped implementation of the Interna- the agenda when the council’s de- tional Criminal Court by gov- cision-making body met Feb. 15- sion-making model in an effort to governments to remove discrimi- ernments that already have 22 in Geneva, Switzerland. It was strengthen participation and com- natory laws against indigenous ratified the Rome Statute on the committee’s last gathering be- mitment of member churches. languages; consider practical which the court is based, as fore the World Council of Church- The Rev. Bruce Robbins, a Unit- ways to respond to the issue of well as ratification of the stat- es’ 9th Assembly, set for Feb. 14- ed Methodist pastor and commit- language loss and continue sup- ute in countries, such as the 23, 2006, in Porto Alegre, Brazil. tee member from Minneapolis who port of other issues regarding in- United States, that have yet to Retooling the ecumenical vi- has been involved with the council digenous rights and languages. approve it. sion for the new century is not for years, considers the shift to a “This statement should serve Photo courtesy of the ♦ Expressed prayers, condo- only “a matter of structures” but consensus model “historic.” both to raise awareness and to be a World Council of Churches The Rev. Samuel Kobia addresses lences and concerns for the also “a process of transformation,” rallying point for those churches “I hope it will lead to new lev- the World Council of Churches’ Cen- Dec. 26 tsunami victims and the Rev. Samuel Kobia, a Meth- and agencies wanting to support in- els of listening and seeking to one tral Committee. survivors, and called upon odist pastor from Kenya, told the another in the council,” he told digenous peoples on this urgent churches to provide long-term 150-member central committee in United Methodist News Service. matter of keeping alive the richness tee discussed using economic spiritual accompaniment and his first report as the organiza- “All of us in the council knew that of our cultural heritage through our measures to pursue peace in the trauma counseling in those tion’s top executive. it was important to change the languages,” Grounds said. Israeli/Palestinian conflict. In an South Asian countries. Such transformation, he added, ways in which we inter-related and “The urgency of this task can- informational statement on the is- ♦ Appealed to the U.S. govern- “must be rooted in the conversion that we needed to seek to be in not be overemphasized. According sue, delegates reminded member ment to let the U.S. National to the source of our lives and the fellowship in new ways.” to the chair of the U.N. Permanent churches that “with investment Council of Churches “fulfill its life of all creation, the Triune God With a theme of “healing and Forum on Indigenous Issues, half funds, they have an opportunity to pastoral and humanitarian re- whom we confess together.” reconciliation” for the central of the world’s linguistic diversity use those funds responsibly in sup- sponsibilities” by visiting de- Shaping a new vision also committee meeting, delegates lis- will be lost in the next 20 years.” port of peaceful solutions.” tainees at Guantanamo Bay, means streamlining the council’s tened to concerns about conflicts Grounds noted the lack of di- The “process of phased, selec- Cuba. activities to better deal with new and injustices in regions such as versity of delegates to the coun- tive divestment from multina- ♦ Made 17 recommendations in patterns of church life and an ever- Africa and the Pacific. cil’s 2006 assembly, but hopes the tional corporations involved in a memorandum on “uprooted changing world context. The cen- “We have heard the voices of setback in representation is tem- the occupation” approved in people” and other new pat- tral committee did significant those who live in war-torn nations porary. “The reduction in numbers 2004 by the Presbyterian Church terns of migration resulting work on this “reconfiguration” in Africa, seeking a peaceful end of delegates over the financial (USA) was cited as an example. from globalization and other process, according to the Rev. to the conflict in settings such as stress of the WCC has had unfor- That divestment process also has additional factors. Larry Pickens, chief executive, Burundi and Sudan,” Pickens said. tunate consequences for the diver- raised considerable criticism, es- With new members joining the United Methodist Commission on “The World Council of Churches sity of representation that so many pecially from American Jewish fellowship, council membership Christian Unity and Interreligious has played a significant role in have worked toward over many groups. has increased from 342 to 347 Concerns. these trouble spots, addressing pov- years,” he said. “As compared to Responding to the crisis in Iraq, churches. The Methodist Church Part of the process is affirming erty in these and other countries.” the last assembly in Harare, we the central committee recom- of Indonesia was among those the role of the Roman Catholic Richard Grounds, a United have seen a significant decline in mended a debate in appropriate welcomed into membership, and Church and the Pentecostal move- Methodist and central committee the percentages of delegates rep- international forums about “a the Methodist Church of Puerto ment “at the forefront of the ecu- member from Tulsa, Okla., called resenting women, youth and in- timetable for the reduction and Rico was received as a new asso- menical movement in the 21st the committee’s adoption of a for- digenous peoples.” termination of the U.S.-led coali- ciate member. century,” he said. “We also learned mal statement on indigenous peo- The WCC’s last assembly was tion’s military presence in Iraq and In addition to Pickens, Robbins of significant work that is taking ples a “significant move forward.” held in Zimbabwe’s capital city for the removal of its military and Grounds, the United Method- place with respect to engaging The “Statement on Human in 1998. bases there.” ist Church was represented at the Pentecostals in dialogue.” Rights and Languages of Indige- The statement calls both gov- meeting by Lois Dauway of New nous Peoples” calls upon member International conflict ernments and intergovernmental York. Consensus approach churches to urge establishment of discussed bodies “to greater accountability Linda Bloom serves as a Committee members adopted a U.N. International Year of Indig- Considering issues of interna- under the rule of international law United Methodist News Service the consensus approach as a deci- enous Languages; appeal to their tional conflict, the central commit- both for the causes of peace in Iraq news writer based in New York. Are humans ‘good enough’? Human beings are “fearfully merely points along a spectrum of diverse committee brings togeth- The NCC has released a new study guide and wonderfully made” by God, scientific progress? Or should we er outstanding theologians, scien- according to the Bible (Psalm fear crossing a certain line at the tists, ethicists, youth, pastors, to the book Enough: Staying Human in an 139). cost of our humanity? How do we counselors and teachers. Further, Engineered Age Our wondrous makeup in- sort out which technologies en- seven nationally known experts in cludes the ability and drive to hance life and which render it science and in ethics, dubbed “the decode secrets of the created meaningless? Is life as it natural- Senior Sages,” have agreed to logical and pastoral challenges of ticipants will gain a working order through scientific inquiry ly develops good enough? consult with the group. emerging biotechnologies. “With knowledge of biotechnologies and and to apply discoveries in ways Answers to these questions The committee recently an- new advances and the break- the moral and ethical question they that have changed our environ- must not be left to science alone. nounced it will present a draft of throughs symbolized by the Hu- raise. Lindner commends the ment and the way we live. To- “We recognize afresh the respon- policy statement on biotechnolo- man Genome Project, the Council guide for use “in parishes, coun- day, biotechnologies are poised sibility of our churches to consid- gies to the NCC’s highest decision- and its member communions have cils of churches, seminaries and to give us the capacity to alter er these matters and offer a bal- making body, the General Assem- quickened their efforts to explore other settings in which people of the very genes with which our anced word of hope, caution and bly, in November 2005. A vote is these questions from a technolog- faith struggle to live faithfully in Creator has endowed us – even counsel,” says Clare Chapman, a planned at the 2006 NCC Assem- ical perspective,” Lindner notes. the world.” in ways that offspring can inher- vice president of the National bly, allowing a year for churches Alongside the policy develop- To download the free study it. Nanotechnology envisions a Council of Churches USA and to discuss the proposed policy. ment process, and in order to guide, including chapter synopses, time when we may assemble chair of its Human Biotechnolo- The Rev. Eileen W. Lindner, broaden discussion, the NCC has discussion questions and other re- new creations, atom by atom, gies Policy Development Com- NCC deputy secretary, who staffs released a new study guide to the sources, go to www.ncccusa.org/ that react to stimuli with life-like mittee, which was created to meet the committee, notes that, as early book Enough: Staying Human in pdfs/EnoughStudyGuide.pdf. responses. this responsibility. Drawing mem- as the 1970s, ecumenical efforts an Engineered Age by noted soci- Printed copies can be ordered for Are all these developments bers from eight communions, this began to respond to ethical, theo- ologist Bill McKibben. Study par- $3 each by calling 212-870-2031. Hoosier United ECUMENICAL Methodists 11 www.inareaumc.org together Millard Fuller fired from Habitat as dispute with board re-erupts By John Pierce of my life to this – morning, noon with his wife, Linda, as ambassa- openly critical of any and all steps charger” and “sometimes damag- and night – and then these people dors for the ministry, while daily taken toward appropriate compro- es relationships,” particularly with AMERICUS, Ga. say that they can’t operations would be conducted by mise,” said Ramsey. “The board the Habitat board. In a personal (ABP) – Millard and stand any criticism.” managing director Paul Leonard. must therefore fulfill its fiduciary statement released Feb. 1, Fuller Linda Fuller were im- The Fullers and the “I will remain very engaged in obligation to the organization and called their firings an “extreme mediately dismissed Habitat board of direc- the ministry as a spokesperson and our moral responsibility to all decision” but urged continued Jan. 31 from their jobs tors have been in con- strategist, and will help in every those who share in Habitat’s mis- support for Habitat. with Habitat for Hu- flict for several months other way I can to strengthen and sion. No issue, no person, no de- “Habitat is my life work,” said manity International, over a transition of expand the work of Habitat for bate can be permitted to compro- Fuller. “I do not want to harm the the worldwide Chris- leadership. Directors Humanity throughout the United mise the integrity and work of this ministry in any way. I applaud tian housing ministry wanted Millard Fuller States and around the world,” Full- extraordinary ministry.” President Carter for his pledge to they founded and led to retire as president er said at that time. According to the release, former continue his involvement. I urge for 29 years. Fuller this month when he However, board chairman Rey President Jimmy Carter expressed others to do the same.” The organization’s turned 70. Fuller want- Ramsey, a Baltimore attorney, said his continuing personal friendship The Fullers started Habitat in executive committee charged the ed to remain at the helm until the in the Jan. 31 release that the board with the Fullers, as well as his sup- 1976. The housing ministry that Fullers with being “divisive and 200,000th house was dedicated tried repeatedly to resolve differ- port of Habitat for Humanity In- partners with needy families who disruptive to the organization’s later this year. ences with the Fullers confiden- ternational. He will serve as an purchase their homes at no inter- work” through their public com- The issue seemed resolved in tially, but that the Fullers publicly honorary chair of the search com- est and no profit now has affiliates ments, according to a press release. October when it was announced criticized the board’s efforts. mittee to find Fuller’s successor. nationwide and in 100 countries. Fuller told the Atlanta Journal- that Fuller would become “In every instance, the Fullers Fuller admitted to the Atlanta John Pierce serves as a reporter Constitution: “I devoted 29 years “founder president” and serve ultimately have rejected or been newspaper that he is “a hard of the Associated Baptist Press Eight churches received into World Council of Churches GENEVA, Switzerland (WCC) – In addition, three churches Netherlands, and the Evangelical bly, which their representatives Brazil, in 2006. Eight churches – from Asia, Africa, were received as new associate Lutheran Church in the Kingdom will attend as observers. Additional information on the Latin America and the Caribbean members: of the Netherlands, all three of Churches applying for mem- churches received into the WCC region – have been received into ♦ Association of Evangelical Re- them WCC members. bership in the WCC must fulfill a fellowship is available at: the fellowship of the World Coun- formed Churches of Burkina The second was created from a number of criteria. These include www.oikoumene.org. cil of Churches, but the total num- Faso Presbyterian Church of merger of the European Continen- a minimum membership of 25,000 The World Council of Church- ber of the Council membership in- Colombia, tal Province of the Moravian members and the requirement that es is a fellowship of churches, now creased from 342 to 347, since an- ♦ Methodist Church of Puerto Church with the Moravian Church they be working ecumenically in 342, in more than 120 countries other five member churches have Rico, British Province, both individual the region in which they are situ- in all continents from virtually all merged into two joint memberships. Two joint membership applica- members of the Council. ated. Churches with fewer mem- Christian traditions, including The At the beginning of its 15-22 tions were also accepted by the There are two pending cases of bers, or which express a desire to United Methodist Church. The Feb. 15-22 meeting, the WCC central committee: churches which have expressed a be in associate membership, may Roman Catholic Church is not a central committee welcomed the ♦ Protestant Church in the Neth- desire to leave the fellowship of be accepted in this latter category member church but works coop- following five churches as new erlands the WCC: the Evangelical Meth- by the central committee. At least eratively with the WCC. The high- WCC members: ♦ Moravian Church British Prov- odist Church of Costa Rica (Cos- one visit by an ecumenical dele- est governing body is the assem- ♦ Evangelical Baptist Church of ince and European Continental ta Rica); and the International gation is made to the church be- bly, which meets approximately Angola, Province of the Moravian Evangelical Church (USA). fore the application is accepted. every seven years. The WCC was ♦ African Church (Nigeria), Church (EFBU). Six other churches have for- New membership rules are formally inaugurated in 1948 in ♦ Protestant Evangelical Church The first is the result of a merg- mally completed the membership expected to be adopted by the Amsterdam, Netherlands. Its staff of Guinea, er between what were formerly the process and are expected to be central committee for presenta- is headed by general secretary ♦ Methodist Church in Indonesia, Netherlands Reformed Church, received into the WCC fellowship tion to the WCC’s forthcoming Samuel Kobia from the Method- ♦ Baptist Convention of Haiti the Reformed Churches in the immediately after the ninth assem- 9th assembly in Porto Alegre, ist church in Kenya. Bach Production to air March 20 on Hallmark Channel CHICAGO (ELCA) – The Hall- production – originally produced Hallmark Channel, said Tim hausen and Leipzig, all in Bach’s claimed classical guitarist and dis- mark Channel will air a 60-minute in 2003 by Mosaic Television, the Frakes, Mosaic Television produc- native Germany, Frakes said. The tinguished faculty member, Pep- version of the award-winning pro- video magazine of the Evangeli- er, ELCA Department for Com- program includes interviews and perdine University, Malibu, Calif. gram, “Glory to God Alone: The cal Lutheran Church in America munication. Faith and Values Me- commentary from J.S. Bach schol- Carl Grapentine, morning show Life of J.S. Bach,” on Palm Sun- (ELCA) – includes additional vid- dia was “excited” about the oppor- ars Christoph Wolff, professor of co-host, WFMT-FM, Chicago, is day, March 20. The program is pre- eo such as performances of some tunity and agreed to invest in ex- music, Harvard University, Cam- the program’s narrator. sented by Faith and Values Media of Bach’s music and a new inter- panding the program to fit a 60- bridge, Mass., and author of the Another new component is per- as part of “The World of Faith and view with a Bach scholar. minute time slot, he said. biography “Johann Sebastian formance of some of Bach’s mu- Values” series on Hallmark. “Glory to God Alone” was rec- “Many Christians don’t know Bach: The Learned Musician;” sic, featuring a vocal ensemble The documentary will be broad- ognized by the Religion Commu- who Bach was,” Frakes said. “We Robin Leaver, former president of and orchestra, recorded at the cast at noon ET and at 11 a.m. CT. nicators Council based in New want to introduce or re-introduce the American Bach Society and Evangelical Lutheran Church of Bach, a well-known German York City, with its 2003 DeRose- J.S. Bach and his music to entire- professor of sacred music, West- St. Luke, Chicago. Because of composer regarded by many as Hinkhouse Memorial Award as ly new generations in America minster Choir College, Rider Uni- time constraints, the original pro- one of the finest classical compos- best in class for non-broadcast vid- who may not be aware that this versity, Princeton, N.J.; and Mary gram did not include significant ers ever, lived from 1685 to 1750. eo and audio productions. rich musical heritage exists.” J. Greer, New York, vice president performances of Bach’s music, He composed vocal, keyboard and In 2004 the ELCA approached The new broadcast features of the American Bach Society. Frakes said. “Faith and Values orchestral works. Faith and Values Media about air- original scenes from Eisenach, Also featured is Christopher Media and Hallmark gave us a The expanded documentary ing the Bach documentary on the Ohrdruf, Weimar, Kothen, Muhl- Parkening, an internationally ac- chance to do that,” he said. Catholic Church joins new Christian forum with NCC NEW YORK – National Council Even though the Southern Baptist act together, Edgar noted. CCT – an important step forward Service, Bishop Stephen Blaire of of Churches USA General Secre- Convention recently opted not to The NCC initiated exploration in broadening ecumenical fellow- Stockton, Calif., who chairs the tary Bob Edgar welcomed the join CCT, the new forum still will of such a forum in 2001 and has ship – while affirming their strong Catholic Bishops’ ecumenical com- U.S. Catholic Bishop’s decision be the most inclusive Christian continued as a key supporter of the support of the NCC and its ongo- mittee, said CCT is “not to create Nov. 17 to join Christian Church- organization in the nation. development of CCT. ing diverse program, which in- another kind of National Council of es Together in the U.S.A. (CCT), Set to begin work this year, CCT “The NCC and CCT are comple- cludes theological dialogue, Bible Churches” but rather a forum “so an effort to bring Catholics, Evan- will gather top church leaders to mentary,” Edgar said. “Many of the translations, communication, edu- we can pray together, grow in our gelical and mainline Protestants, discuss topics of common interest NCC’s 36 Protestant (including cation, interfaith relations and ad- understanding together, and witness and Orthodox Christians around and grow in their relationships – United Methodists) and Orthodox vocacy on peace and justice issues.” together our faith in whatever way a common table for the first time. more a place to be together than to member communions are joining According to Religion News is possible in our society.” Hoosier United 12 Methodists FOCUS ON PEACE HOUSE together March 2005 Conflict transformation at work on Indy’s near north-side By Erwin Boschmann, Peter leaded glass windowpanes must tant issues. solve conflicts Michael and Judy O’Bannon be preserved; homes should serve Peace House identified a home in a peaceful single families. The association with a huge, commercial kitchen, manner. An As- INDIANAPOLIS – From the of- fought attempts to start a bed-and- nine bedrooms, six bathrooms, sociate Director fice of the Indianapolis Peace breakfast enterprise; it closed parking for ten cars and a carriage will live on the House, one can see an abandoned shabby gas stations and cleaned house. The purchase agreement premises. Stu- car, a long-since-closed furnace up grocery stores. was arrived at quickly. However, dents will have repair shop, an old couch lying in to reach agreement with neigh- classes at anoth- the alley and a trash dumpster, Looking for a residence bors, the neighborhood association er site, and they routinely raided for aluminum This is the neighborhood that and the Indianapolis Historic Pres- want to become cans. Looking out that same win- Peace House came to looking for ervation Commission, which func- part of the com- dow and slightly to the right just a residence for its students. To the tions as the City County Zoning munity, partici- across the alley, there is a mansion shocked neighbors, it seemed like Board, seemed not to be attainable. pate in events, currently on the market for just a throwback to multi-family As word unfurled about Peace and provide help under two million dollars. dwellings with absentee landlords. House, rumors started to fly. In an- where possible. The Old Northside is a neigh- They certainly did not want a stu- ticipation of strong opposition, The students borhood in transition. Some years dent dormitory to threaten their Peace House undertook number- will be very busy back no realtor would show homes property values. less conversations. While there taking two in this area – the city gave the Plowshares, a collaborative be- was some openness to the Peace courses, work- properties away for a dollar. tween Earlham, Goshen and House idea, the response was of- ing a 20-hour- A Together photo Crowded living, drug dealings, Manchester Colleges, was creat- ten quite negative. Peace House week internship, Peace House office and classrooms are located at Cen- tral Avenue United Methodist Church in Indianapolis. shootings and prostitution were ed to enhance the colleges’ exist- almost considered withdrawing. attending a the norm. Once stately Victorian ing peace and justice programs, The United States invasion of Iraq speaker series, relating to the com- persuaded. Peace House promised homes were vacant. Slum land- and to bring this concept to a large added to the tensions. A neighbor- munity and engaging in discus- to appoint someone from the lords divided homes into apart- metropolitan area. Peace House is hood meeting was called to which sions once per week with commu- neighborhood to its board. It sys- ments and charged exorbitant its Indianapolis component, seek- Peace House was invited. Fear and nity not-for-profit leaders. tematically worked on each issue rates for deplorable conditions. ing to become the best undergrad- anxiety turned out one question af- with a neighborhood committee. White flight was at its peak. uate peace and justice program in ter another. Peace House listened The committee reported back Then some brave souls began the country. Negative opinions and ques- Unlike some developers who to the neighborhood board which, fixing things up, moved in, Peace House had considered tions hurled about during the made vehement demands, Peace without the presence of Peace brought their families, formed a using apartment buildings with meeting attended by an unusually House started by listening to the House, denied the Peace House very strong neighborhood associ- their private baths, private kitch- large number of neighbors. Peace concerns of neighbors, invited di- request. Under pressure to find a ation and established a historic ens and private living rooms. House, however, was given a alogue, searched for common place for students who would district that controls what can and However, it soon became clear chance to explain its program. ground, and was proactive and come in just a short while, the cannot be done. The district that the study of peace and justice While ours are indeed students, persisted. Peace House was able to arrange placed restrictions on the colors of needs to begin small by practic- they largely come from peace col- As a result of such listening, for a special meeting of the neigh- houses and on the demolition of ing conflict resolution at home leges. They tend to be mature and confidence building and calm borhood board where the decision historic homes; the district said solving such mundane but impor- are driven by an intense desire to speaking, some neighbors were was eventually reversed – pend- Hoosier United FOCUS ON PEACE HOUSE Methodists 13 www.inareaumc.org together ing clarification of details. House was welcomed into the he must have known that there is ered pawns in political maneuver- litical office and as a public of- The person on the neighbor- neighborhood as a non-single no peace without justice, no jus- ings. To be safe, his family fled to ficial, apply the tools of peace hood board who had been most family dwelling. tice without education and no ed- a neighboring country. Coming making as he serves his fellow persistent in his questioning had The neighborhood is indeed in ucation without hard work. Get- back after the war he saw his citizens. a change of mind and became transition, not just in the physical ting to peace is hard work, but friends and neighbors hungry, Peace House could not have involved in drafting language changes mentioned before, but Peace House staff and students devastated, some with cut off a higher calling. that would both protect the human changes as well. Shoot- don’t mind hard work. hands and in their empty eyes he Erwin Boschmann serves neighborhood and define and ings, drug dealing and prostitution saw longing and a search for as CEO of Peace House, Pe- limit Peace House activities. In have been much reduced and one Samuka meaning. ter Michael serves as a Peace the process he was instrumental sees baby strollers on sidewalks, Peace House is for students like He is at Peace House studying House Board Member, and in drafting sixteen covenants people jogging, walking their Samuka. Bright and mature, he conflict resolution, to be calm and Judy O’Bannon, former first and conditions that were not ide- dogs and neighbors talking. works hard as a Peace House stu- friendly under pressure, to listen lady of Indiana and a United al for either side but on which dent. He grew up in Sierra Leone and to be both proactive and per- Methodist, serves as Peace both sides could agree. Implementing what it during a horrific ten-year civil war sistent. He is determined to go House Director of External However, this was not the end teaches where people’s lives were consid- back to Sierra Leone, run for po- Affairs. of the negotiations. The city com- Peace House implemented mission had to agree to the pro- what it teaches: to listen to neigh- posal. A caring neighbor and bors who have taken great risks strong Peace House ally took it in moving there, to be sensitive Peace House part of peace colleges upon himself to obtain some 60 to the history of a community, to What is the Old Northside? Contact: Indianapolis Peace House, Inc. signatures of support from near- take part in its activities and to A historic district neighborhood of mostly 19th 1201 N. Central Ave. by neighbors. be willing to become vulnerable century stately homes bounded on the North, Indianapolis, IN 46202-2696 Taking a chance, Peace House and to compromise. Both the South, East and West by, respectively, 16th and 317-631-7322 (voice) appeared before the Indianapolis neighborhood and Peace House 12th Streets, College and Delaware Streets. 317-631-5969 (fax) Historic Preservation Commission listened to mutual concerns; the What is Plowshares? How do I enroll? which, after more than an hour, motivation of the neighborhood It is a Lilly Endowment-funded collaborative Contact Ruth Hill at: voted to accept Peace House. Still, and that of Peace House were laid among Earlham, Goshen and Manchester Colleg- [email protected] one neighbor threatened an ap- on the table, and eventually both es in Indiana to promote peace on and beyond the 317-631-7322 (voice) peal, thereby imposing upon compromised. colleges. 317-631-5969 (fax) Peace House a possible 90-day In the process, new contacts How can I contribute to Peace House? delay. On further discussions, it What is Peace House? were made, deep and rich friend- In many ways: You can encourage worthy col- became clear that the remonstra- An arm of Plowshares, Peace House is a mini ships were established, and those lege students to consider a semester at Peace House. tor wanted to sell his home as well. campus of the three colleges in Indianapolis where who initially were most forceful You can volunteer your time, as many others have This dilemma was solved when students come for one semester to study peace in opposing the Peace House ven- done. You may want to donate specific items use- the sellers of Peace House agreed and conflict resolution and engage with the com- ture, now have become allies who able at Peace House, or you may financially spon- to purchase the neighbor’s home. munity. volunteer their time on behalf of sor a needy, but deserving student. All donations Representatives from the Peace Where can I learn more? Peace House. are tax deductible. For more information contact: House listened and compromised. www.indypeacehouse.org or “Like a cathedral, peace must Erwin Boschmann at [email protected], or at 317-631- Through an unshakable faith and www.plowsharesproject.org. be constructed patiently and with 7322 or fax to 317-631-5969. persist dialogue, a solution was unshakable faith.” When Pope What if I want to visit? found to the problems. The Peace John Paul II uttered these words Hoosier United 14 Methodists GLOBAL MISSION together March 2005 Sudanese church leaders meet to consider their future By Fredrick Nzwili “The churches must unite to for- Sudan Council of Churches, was the Sudanese churches needed to es lagged behind that received tify the peace,” Dandala said. set up for the south of Sudan. articulate a clear vision of how from Europe and North America NAIROBI, Kenya (ENI) – A The 21-year-long civil war, in Still, leaders of the two groups they would work together in the in the wake of the Sudan peace meeting of Sudanese Christian which predominantly Christian cautioned against hasty action to future or risk marginalization. agreement signed Jan. 9. leaders in Nairobi has ended with and animist southern Sudanese unite their councils. “The major challenge is how to The conflict between the large- a warning that churches risk be- struggled for autonomy from the “It could confuse communities further strengthen our ecumenical ly black, Christian and animist ing marginalized if they cannot mainly Islamic north, also led to at this critical juncture,” said Har- working relationships at the local, south and the Muslim north dis- draw up a clear strategy after an the formation of two ecumenical uun Ruun, executive secretary of national and continental levels,” placed up to five million people. agreement by the Sudanese gov- church groups for the country. the New Sudan Council of he told Ecumenical News Interna- The peace agreement does not deal ernment and rebels to end a long- The Sudan Council of Church- Churches. “It therefore calls for a tional. with the unrelated strife in west- running civil war. es, based in the capital, Khartoum, gradual and smooth approach.” Isaak Kongur Kenyi, executive ern Sudan’s Darfur region, where “Sudan is at the most danger- formally represented all of the The chief executive of the secretary of the justice and peace tens of thousands of people have ous stage now,” said the Rev. country’s churches, but the civil Khartoum-based council, the Rev. commission of the Sudan Catho- died of malnutrition and disease in Mvume Dandala, a Methodist and war prevented it from operating Paul Chol Deng, said churches lic Bishops’ Conference, urged the past year and hundreds of thou- chief executive of the Nairobi- outside government-controlled were united even with two groups churches in other parts of Africa sands have been left homeless. based All Africa Conference of areas. to represent them. to provide support to Christians in Nzwili is a writer for Ecumeni- Churches, which hosted the two- A separate body with headquar- Melaku Kifle, an official of the Sudan. cal News International, which dis- day meeting that ended Feb. 8. ters based in Nairobi, the New World Council of Churches, said Solidarity from African church- tributed this story. UMCOR opens mission to restore farmland in Sudan By Linda Beher body, gave his agency a mandate plied to people in refugee camps. UMCOR has found need for a to provide assistance and work for Jim Cox, the agency’s interna- NEW YORK (UMNS) – The peace in Sudan. tional operations director, point- United Methodist Committee on humanitarian mission that will restore A major step toward peace in ed to the acute need for services Relief is now providing direct re- farmland and provide seeds, tools and southern Sudan occurred in late to children. He said that the 2004 lief and rehabilitation in the em- January with the signing of an ac- harvest provided even less than a battled Darfur region of Sudan. technical training in South Darfur. cord between the government in short harvest the year before. Opened in early February, the Khartoum and the Sudanese Peo- World Food Program figures in- mission’s priorities include pro- ple’s Liberation Movement. Unit- dicate that 22 percent of children viding emergency aid and devel- Raeford, N.C., who has exten- of Chad. ed Methodist mission leaders wel- under age 5 are malnourished. opment services in water, sanita- sive experience in humanitar- The Rev. R. Randy Day, chief comed the accord as a positive sign Donations to the mission in tion, and agriculture. The initial ian aid and security issues; and executive of the United Method- of eventual peace in all of Sudan. Sudan can be earmarked for UM- work will be concentrated in ♦ Frederick Opuni-Mensah, a ist Board of Global Ministries, of The southern area includes several COR Advance No. 84385, “Sudan South Darfur, on the western side liaison for UMCOR in Wash- which UMCOR is a part, said he United Methodist congregations. Emergency” and dropped in of Sudan in northeastern Africa. ington since 2004, and for- was pleased the agency can now Approved as a registered service church offering plates or mailed A staff of three will oversee the merly with the American Red offer direct services. “Working out provider inside Darfur in January, directly to UMCOR at 475 River- operation. They are: Cross and the Adventist Devel- the details of this new venture has UMCOR has found need for a hu- side Dr., Room 330, New York, ♦ Sashi Chanda, formerly with opment and Relief Agency. been slow and complex. The suc- manitarian mission that will restore NY 10115. To donate using a cred- Save the Children in Angola, UMCOR also will continue its cess of our efforts is testimony to farmland and provide seeds, tools it card, contributors may call toll- who has degrees in theology work of many months with a coa- the diligence of UMCOR in all that and technical training in South Dar- free, 800-554-8583. and rural development; lition of other humanitarian orga- it does in relief and rehabilitation.” fur, where few agencies are work- Beher serves as executive sec- ♦ Michael Tredway, a United nizations to provide assistance to Day noted that the 2004 Unit- ing. Emergency supplies, such as retary for communications at the Methodist layperson and re- Sudanese refugees fleeing from ed Methodist General Conference, soap, buckets, cooking utensils and United Methodist Committee on tired military officer from Darfur into the neighboring nation the denomination’s top legislative plastic sheeting, also will be sup- Relief. Africa University’s Yemba becomes Central Congo bishop MUTARE, Zimbabwe (UMNS) - placed in him. “You think of the third ballot in a field of 11 candi- The Rev. David Kekumba Yem- responsibilities the church is put- dates and consecrated Feb. 13. ba, professor and founding dean ting on your shoulders,” he told He is taking over the leadership of the faculty of theology at Afri- United Methodist News Service in of one of the denomination’s larg- ca University, has been elected a telephone interview. “It is a great est episcopal areas, comprising 10 bishop of the Central Congo Area. responsibility.” of the 11 provinces of the Demo- He will succeed Bishop Fama The Feb. 12 election, which cratic Republic of Congo. The Onema, who served the area for was part of the United Methodist church has 844,634 members in more than 30 years. Africa Central Conference, took the Congo. Yemba said he was gratified by place in Kamina in Katanga Prov- Yemba said he “has been with the confidence the church has ince. Yemba was elected on the Africa University since the plan- ning stages. In fact, my family was the first to move to Africa Univer- German United Methodists sity in 1991.” “We have prayed for this for a elect a woman bishop long time, and God has answered (UMNS) — United Methodists United Methodist Theological our prayers,” said the Rev. Laisha in Germany elected a new bishop Seminary in Reutlingen and has Bwalya, a Congolese student at UMNS photo by Peter Williams The Rev. David K. Yemba speaks at a July 2004 meeting of the World Council — the denomination’s first wom- held pastorates in Karlsruhe, Africa University and a United of Churches’ Faith and Order Commission in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. an named to that office in Europe Hockenheim and Darmstadt. Methodist pastor. “I’m very hap- — on Feb. 16. Wenner, who takes office April py that Professor Yemba is now a Commission of the World Coun- Before joining Africa Univer- The Rev. Rosemarie Wenner 1, succeeds Bishop Walter bishop.” cil of Churches. He has a bache- sity, he served as senior lecturer received the needed two-thirds Klaiber. He is retiring after almost Yemba is the second staff mem- lor of divinity degree from the and associate professor at Zaire majority vote of the 100 delegates 16 years in office. ber in less than a year to be elect- Protestant School of Theology of Protestant Seminary. In 1987-88, of the Germany Central Confer- The central conference meets ed bishop. The Rev. Eben K. Nhi- the Congo Free University at he was a visiting professor at An- ence on the fourth ballot. every four years and is the high- watiwa was elected bishop in Au- Kisangani and a doctorate in sys- dover Newton Theological A native of Eppingen in south- est decision-making body of the gust 2004 and assigned to the Zim- tematic theology from the Univer- School, teaching Christianity with ern Germany, the 49-year-old had United Methodist Church in Ger- babwe Area. sity of Strasbourg, France. an African Face and African The- served serving as superintendent many. It is divided into three an- An internationally respected He was ordained an Elder in the ology. of the church’s Frankfurt District nual conferences, representing scholar and theologian, Yemba is church’s Central Congo Annual Yemba and his wife, Henriette, since 1996. She studied at the about 65,000 people. moderator of the Faith and Order Conference in 1970. have five children. Hoosier United GLOBAL MISSION Methodists 15 www.inareaumc.org together Operation Classroom revitalizes school partnerships in Africa Each district of The United Methodist Church in Indiana is in OC chose only one basic project per partnership with a school in either Liberia or Sierra Leone. Operation school so we can focus on getting this Classroom hopes to revitalize and priority project completed. reestablish those partnerships by selecting specific projects for each district to focus upon in addition WATTS sends counseling be working to make the com- to the on-going needs of the teams to Liberia and Sierra Le- puter program functional and schools. one. Two teams are scheduled to plan to purchase a generator According to the Rev. Joe Wag- go this year. OC also will assist and air conditioners; ner, co-director, Operation Class- in the operation of the Pearl Cen- ♦ UM Girls School in Freetown room has developed a plan that ter and assist in starting a Clini- – Bloomington District plans to will help the local churches get cal Pastoral Education program work on renovation in conjunc- more involved in Operation Class- for pastors. OC seeks funds for tion with the work team; room than they may have been the CPE program. ♦ Jaiama – Indianapolis West before. OC’s goal is to have each Operation Doctor, in coopera- District hopes to refurbish one UMC congregation in Indiana par- tion with General Board of Glo- staff house; Fakunya new building built by UN peace keeping forces. ticipate in these priority needs. bal Ministries and the Wisconsin ♦ Baoma – Rushville and Muncie Each school project has a local United Methodist Conference, Districts hope to construct a church goal, if OC is to meet the will continue support of the Kissy staff house; needs of that project. OC chose United Methodist Church Mater- ♦ Fakunya – Columbus District only one basic project per school nity and Health Center in Free- plans for renovation and the so we can focus on getting this town, Sierra Leone. OC pays Dr. purchase of equipment for vo- priority project completed. These Marke’s salary there as well as cational classes in carpentry, projects are in addition to what we provides for medications, a nutri- agriculture and home econom- are presently doing. tion program, HIV/AIDS program ics; Operation Classroom has five and the continued construction of ♦ Fergusson – Terre Haute and basic program areas: Education, the hospital. Vincennes District hope to Vocational Education, West Afri- Finally, OC provides for hands- complete a staff house; ca Trauma Training Seminars on Volunteer-in-Missions work- ♦ Koidu – Marion District hopes (WATTS), Operation Doctor and teams to West Africa coordinating to refurbish one classroom Volunteers in Mission. the work of three teams this year. building and provide 100 In the education area, OC Here in Indiana, VIMs work with desks; works with 14 schools, provides districts, the OC warehouse and ♦ Mokanji – Huntington District student scholarships, sends teach- shipping of goods to Liberia and plans to renovate a classroom, es to college, upgrades buildings Sierra Leone. provide for 100 desks and Koidu classroom which needs to be renovated. and provides supplies plus desks chairs, and jump start a voca- and chairs. In Sierra Leone tional program; and ♦ Reconstructed the water system In vocational education, OC This year churches from these ♦ Bo Centenary – Kokomo Dis- at Ganta, works with 14 schools plus a vo- Indiana districts are invited to trict plans to complete renova- ♦ Provided funds for medications cational school in partnership with work with Operation Classroom in tion and furniture of the main and the nutrition program, some Virginia churches. In 2004, Sierra Leone at: building. ♦ In partnership with the OC sent more than $9,000 of vo- ♦ Albert Academy – Evansville Women’s Division, completed cational equipment and supplies. and New Albany Districts will In Liberia the surgical unit at Kissy, This year churches from these ♦ In partnership with the GBGM, Indiana districts are invited to got the foundation and floor work with Operation Classroom in poured on the surgical ward at Liberia at: Kissy,. ♦ Ganta – Michiana District at $260,742, ♦ Shipped materials needed for plans to renovate the gym, the ♦ Conducted two counseling building, and Hartzler building and the seminars (one in Liberia and ♦ Shipped more than $9,000 home-economics building. one in Sierra Leone), worth of tools and equipment ♦ Tubman Gray – Calumet and ♦ Sent two work teams to Sierra for the vocational school. Terre Haute Disricts hope to Leone, For more information about Op- renovate the library and class- ♦ Provided 1,400 scholarships to eration Classroom, call 765-436- rooms. students, 2805, log on to ♦ Brumskine – Indianapolis East ♦ Continued to assist in renova- www.operationclassroom.org, or District plans to renovate the tions of school buildings, write to Operation Classroom, P.O. junior high building, wire a ♦ Continued to provide furniture Box 246, Colfax IN 46035. Remem- new building and provide a for the schools, ber, your apportionment dollars sup- ♦ Jaiama staff house which needs to be renovated. generator. Provided scholarships for port this vital mission to our Chris- ♦ College of West Africa – Fort teachers to attend college, tian brothers and sisters in Africa. Wayne District plans to refur- bish the science laboratory and jump start a vocational pro- Operation Classroom VIM gram. ♦ St. Matthew – Warsaw district to Ganta this summer plans to complete the present Operation Classroom is offering two opportunities to go to high school building. Ganta, Liberia this summer on a Volunteers-In-Mission work- team. The first team leaves Aug. 1 and returns Aug. 15. The team Thanks for 2004 support leader is Kitty Decker. Operation Classroom Co-direc- The second team leaves Aug. 17 and returns Sept. 4. Mona tors the Rev. Joe and Carolyn Morgan is the team leader. Medical professionals as well as oth- Wagner, give thanks for Hoosiers’ er team members are invited to participate. Cost $2,750. support of OC in 2004. Through Write to Carolyn Wagner at [email protected] for an the support of United Methodists application or more information. You also can download the ap- in Indiana, OC: plication from our Web site www.operationclassroom.org. ♦ Shipped six cargo containers of Foundation for high school classrooms at St. Matthew. supplies and equipment, valued Hoosier United 16 Methodists VIEWPOINTS together March 2005 The Flood of 2005 taught us some important lessons about life By Kevin McKinney things we gather around us and drifting on a sea of despair. how fragile the satisfaction and The Flood of ’05 also taught us the value The faces go on, each one Thousands of us watched help- security they bring. In hardly more wearing the strain of fatigue, anx- lessly as the snow melted, the rains than a moment, what took a life- of community and caring as we found a iety, disappointment and loss. fell in sheets and the flood waters time to collect and arrange just so common bond in our need and the need of They need hope – islands of hope rose relent- is unceremoniously wiped away in their sea of despair. We are lessly, swal- right before our unbelieving eyes. our neighbors. called to wade the floodwaters lowing The Flood of ’05 taught us about with them and be for them islands grass, trees, equality. Rich or poor, Kentucki- of hope. In our own strength we roads, an, Illini or Hoosier, no matter the – some whose faces we knew and who has spent all his savings, have little to offer – a dry towel, a bridges, color of your skin or initials after some whom no one had seen be- mortgaged his house, frittered temporary rest from endless swim- cars and your name – when the river rose fore – who came to fill sand bags away his family to feed the addic- ming in rolling floodwaters. houses as it she treated us all equally. The Flood and shore up levees, ferry people tion that enslaves him; he knows went this of ’05 also taught us the value of to high ground, offer a word of the despair of the flood. Real Hope winter in In- community and caring as we found comfort or a shoulder to cry on or The businesswoman who “in- But in Christ we have real diana. It McKinney a common bond in our need and who offered food or money for vests” all her assets – time and Hope to offer. The book of He- came in a the need of our neighbors. much needed relief. energy, focus, self identity and brews tells us He is the anchor of hurry and kept on coming. In some Most important of all, the They stood out as islands of family – in her pursuit of success our hope for our souls, both sure places the rivers raised visibly Flood of ’05 taught the necessity hope in our sea of despair. To all who realizes too late the loneliness and steadfast, that we might stand minute by minute. It brought with of HOPE. TV, newspapers and the anonymous volunteers and of seeking a safe, quiet, dry place firm as the waters swirl around us. it ruin and loss, refuse and debris, sight seeing tours all revealed the donors, thank you for being is- to sit and rest – only to find there In His love and power for our lives pain and despair. It swept through pain and need, as rooftops lands of hope offering a place of is nowhere to sit and no one to He lifts us up and places us upon our homes and took with it fur- seemed almost to bob up and mooring and safe haven to water- share it with; she can feel the wa- a rock, a high place above the nishings, pictures, documents, down in the water – piles of pain logged spirits overwhelmed by the ter as it swirls around her knees floods that threaten. As we stand memories, the tangible records of adrift in a sea of despair. floodwaters. rising ever upward. firm, reach out your hand and our lives; our histories headed for The parents who watch a small grasp the hand of one floundering somewhere downstream. Bright spots of caring Victims of other floods casket lowered into a raw black in the flood of hopelessness. Of- The Indiana Flood of ’05 taught In the midst of it all there were As I look at the pictures of pain hole in the ground turn away to hear fer them the Rock, the High us some important lessons about bright spots of caring, heartwarm- I think of victims of other floods. the sound of rushing waters as their Ground of God’s saving love. life. We were rudely reminded just ing stories of unselfishness: Those who have lost all that which most basic assumptions about life Kevin McKinney, an ordained how small and powerless we are churches serving as emergency has value, choosing to quickly and love are swept away into the Elder in the South Indiana Con- in the face of the forces of nature. shelters and food kitchens for vic- grab items of little worth or use as grave leaving a gaping hole in their ference, serves as superintendent It taught us how fleeting are the tims and neighbors and neighbors the flood waters rise. The addict hearts; they know the weariness of of the Evansville District. South Indiana ministers’ retirement fund part of mission By Marie Lang generate the $1 million estimated current and future clergy from fall- to be needed to provide a secure One of the primary reasons newer ing entirely on our local churches. Current retired clergy families retirement for current clergy fam- By helping to relieve churches are well provided with pensions ilies when they retire. seminary graduates and pastors give for of the increasing costs of providing and health care through the gen- As the costs of health care con- leaving the ministry is concern for their for our retired clergy, more funds erosity of the church. Securing tinue to rise, many current clergy will be available for other ministries similar pro- fear that they will be unable to af- retirement. and missions. When our current and vision for ford adequate health insurance future clergy are relieved of their active and when they retire. One of the pri- concerns for their retirement, the future cler- mary reasons newer seminary by donations, bequests, etc.” Society, and remains the trustee of churches will benefit from new gen- gy, howev- graduates and pastors give for The Preachers’ Aid Societies the Ministers’ Retirement Fund. erations of clergy leadership, secure er, is putting leaving the ministry is concern for were created to administer and in their vocations and focused on the more and their retirement. This uncertainty encourage gifts and bequests for Permanent endowment mission of the Church. The Minis- more pres- makes it difficult to attract and their permanent funds. From these The 2000 Statement of Philos- ters’ Retirement Fund is truly serv- sure on the retain faithful clergy leaders. funds, the Societies paid pensions, ophy for the Fund states: “…that ing those who served so well, as churches’ made mortgage loans and gave the permanently restricted Minis- well as the churches and ministries ability to Lang Retirement fund history emergency relief to retired clergy ters’ Retirement Fund assets be they have loved. fund minis- In South Indiana and its prede- and their families. continued as a permanent endow- For more information, contact try and mission. cessor conferences, the Ministers’ In 1944, the Preachers’ Aid So- ment, maintaining the corpus in- Robin Andres or Marie Lang at The Ministers’ Retirement Retirement Fund has always ciety (Methodist) undertook raising tact and using the proceeds for fu- 317-788-7879. Fund, an endowed fund held in helped churches provide for their $500,000 to enroll clergy in the ture relief and aid of retired min- Marie Lang, an ordained Dea- trust by the South Indiana Foun- pastors as they retire. For genera- General Board of Pensions. “This isters, widows of deceased minis- con, serves as executive director dation, is a resource that helps the tions, the Ministers’ Retirement new Reserve Plan will in no way ters, and minor dependents of de- of the South Indiana Foundation church provide for clergy in retire- Fund has played an important role hurt us of the old plan but will dou- ceased ministers.” This statement of The United Methodist Church ment. The South Indiana Founda- in raising funds for pensions and ble the benefits of the new [minis- was drafted by members of the based in Indianapolis. tion, in cooperation with retired other support for clergy families, ters] and eventually lighten the fi- South Indiana Foundation, the SIC clergy leaders throughout the widows and orphans. nancial load now carried by out Council of Finance and Adminis- UMCGIVING.ORG South Indiana Annual Confer- The Fund began in 1832 with churches,” PAS Executive Secretary tration and the SIC Board of Pen- announces ence, is actively seeking gifts to a bequest from Colonel James W.T. Jones, wrote. Five years later sions. The statement was adopted increase the Retirement Fund. Paxton to the Methodist Episco- the necessary funds had been raised. by the South Indiana Foundation new mission The Foundation hopes to receive pal Church “to be employed in Since the merger that created Board of Directors in 2000. outright cash contributions as well extending the work of the Lord in The United Methodist Church in Although the unfunded liabili- moments as bequests and gift annuities the bounds of the State of Indiana, 1968, the Ministers’ Retirement ty is nearing completion, the Min- There is an excellent Web site which are contracts that provide a helping the most needy creatures Fund has contributed over $11 mil- isters’ Retirement Fund remains an that provides many resources for life-income as well as a gift to the belonging to that church whether lion to the South Conference to for endowed fund dedicated to the churches online at www.- Ministers’ Retirement Fund. effective or superannuated.” retired clergy needs. Currently the needs of retired clergy and their umcgiving.org. There also is a South Indiana Conference es- Similarly, in 1903, the Preach- Ministers’ Retirement Fund is do- families. For generations, the Min- new section on the site called timates that it will take an addi- ers’ Aid Society of The White Riv- nating $400,000 per year to help isters’ Retirement Fund has sup- “Mission Moments” that provides tional $1 million in apportionment er Conference of the United cover the unfunded liability in- ported ministry by helping to pro- mission information, liturgy, dollars to provide health insurance Brethren determined that the curred when the pension plan vide for our retired clergy and their songs, and other resources for to currently active clergy families Preacher’s Permanent Fund was to changed to a contribution plan in families. Retired clergy leaders and each Sunday of the year. In addi- when they retire. If $15 million “remain intact forever” and “it 1982. In 1985, the South Indiana the South Indiana Foundation are tion, there is a wonderful section can be added to the endowment, shall be the duty of preachers to Foundation was formed as the suc- formulating a plan to keep the costs of resources on the Special Sun- the Foundation projects that it can obtain contributions for this fund cessor of the original Preachers’ Aid of retirement health care for our days and other programs, too. Hoosier United VIEWPOINTS Methodists 17 www.inareaumc.org together Movie Review Million Dollar Baby By Gregg Tubbs damage done in the ring. Unfor- the way into the film, it whips tunately, Dunn is unable to undo around unexpectedly and delivers (UMCom) – “It’s not how hard the damage done in his own life. a devastating knockout punch. In you hit, it’s how He’s estranged the process, it lifts itself from mere well you hit,” Production Company: from his only entertainment to greatness. I won’t says Frankie Warner Bros./Lakeshore daughter, bick- reveal what happens, because that Dunn (Clint Entertainment ers with his would rob the story of its power. Eastwood) in Director: priest and loses But Million Dollar Baby steadily the stunning Clint Eastwood his best fighters takes you into some desperate and new drama, Principals: to more daring dark places, before arriving at an- Million Dollar Clint Eastwood, Hilary managers. His other place, too melancholy to be Baby. Baby hits Swank, Morgan Freeman only friend is called a happy ending, but not too so well that its Rating: Eddie “Scrap far from a kind of redemption. blows land di- PG-13 (for brutal fight Iron” Dupris Hilary Swank played Maggie Fitzgerald. rectly on the scenes and language) (Morgan Free- Eastwood gives his best heart and rever- man) a broken- As Dunn, Eastwood gives the berate in the soul. Director and down ex-fighter who lost an eye performance of his career, com- star Eastwood has followed last while Dunn was his cut man. bining his well-worn arsenal of year’s acclaimed Mystic River small, tightly coiled expressions with a film that runs even deeper Meet Maggie into a portrait of a man whose life and haunts even longer. And he Into this world arrives Maggie has left him so worn and wary that does it, improbably, in the world Fitzgerald (Hilary Swank), a hard- his golden rule is “always protect of women’s boxing. scrabble Missouri girl who, ac- yourself.” As a director, East- Million Dollar Baby introduc- cording to Scrap’s narration, wood’s art is deftly disguised in es us to the fringe-dwellers of the “grew up knowing only one thing, austere minimalism, stripping his boxing world in a dingy Los An- that she was trash.” She sees box- directorial style down to the bone, geles gym called The Hit Pit. Here, ing as a last chance to escape her until there’s nothing left to distract we meet the up-and-comers, the impoverished upbringing and low from the two pure essentials of has-beens and the never-will-bes expectations. She sees Dunn as the character and story. who cling to their dreams of glory man who can turn her into a cham- The result is a film that takes while straining for nuggets of wis- pion. Dunn is hesitant to take on it’s time in letting us get to know dom from gym-owner, former “cut a girl fighter, but after some cagey these characters, learn to love man” and manager Dunn. persuasion from Scrap, he agrees them, and finally, when they suf- Clint Eastwood directed and played Frankie Dunn. In boxing, a “cut man” works to be her coach. The three begin a fer, we suffer too, because they’ve ringside to tend cuts and repair the journey that will take them become like family. When this unpredictable – just like life itself. Most importantly, it’s about the to the top and towards a makeshift family’s love is tragical- I might get into trouble by call- limits of love; Million Dollar Baby bond that can only be de- ly tested, we are forced to confront ing Million Dollar Baby what it asks the questions, where do you scribed as “family.” some hard choices, for which really is – a love story. But, I’m draw the line between protecting If all of this sounds like there are no easy answers. not alone, because Eastwood him- yourself and protecting the ones the stuff of a cliché Rocky Christians, just like Dunn’s self considers it just that. It’s not you love, and what do you do when rip-off, guess again. This priest, may be at odds with some about romantic love, but the love life throws you such a curve that film bobs and weaves of the decisions that are made, but of family – whether it’s the one you must feel your way through adroitly, using familiar in- in the end, the uncommon human- you’re born with, or the one you on heart alone? For taking us there, gredients to lull you into a ity and emotional honesty of this make for yourself. It’s about what this baby is one in a million. false sense of security. story make it deeply rewarding. love is and what it isn’t, how love Gregg Tubbs is a freelance Morgan Freeman played Eddie Dupris. Then, about two-thirds of It’s messy, exhilarating, sad and acts and how it completes us. writer living in Columbia, Md. Tsunami raises ‘where,’ not ‘why,’ question about God By Judith Craig face and crash into land. – medicine, food, and shelter. Did God do this? Certainly God is in this event in the pres- Did God do this? Certainly not! To ask about God’s presence in not! The universe is orderly, ence of those who work to clear the face of the tsunami that struck even in its disorder, with the laws away rubble and gently care for the Asia and Africa is to ask a good of its nature being the guidelines bodies found and over which they question, recognizing that nothing we may offer the healing ener- question. It is not a “why” ques- for its behavior. weep. God is in this event in the in all creation – not even a tsuna- gy of our prayerful love for tion but a touch of healers and the listening mi – can separate the created or- those who struggle to rebuild “where” Naïve to blame God of counselors, and in the prayers der and all human creation from their lives in safety and with question. No, we would be naïve and ig- of religious people of all faiths. the love of its Creator. hope. Thank you for those who We are norant of natural forces to blame God is in this event in the labor with those who live, and long past God for this tragedy. prayers, generous outpouring of I pray for the human structures that the time But asking the “where” ques- financial giving and networking And so I pray: Loving, griev- make possible the binding to- when we tion puts us on an avenue to the of relief agencies through coun- ing, present God, wrap your eter- gether of those who give in one think natu- heart of God. For God is surely in cils of churches and private as- nal arms around your precious distant place and those who re- ral occur- the midst of all that has occurred, sociations that turn the money globe called earth and hold ten- ceive in another. rences are watching the devastation of those into the good necessary for life, derly all who tremble in the after- Judith Craig is a bishop in resi- the direct Craig made in God’s image and surely health and hope. God is in the math of the tsunami. Let your chil- dence and visiting professor of act of God – reaching out in the energy of God- midst of this event in more ways dren of all ages, races and beliefs church leadership at Methodist whether they are apparent inter- ly love that surpasses all other than we can imagine. know of your presence. Keep our Theological School in Ohio in ventions that spare us harm, for sources of hope. It is very important to ask the hearts tender and our souls gener- Delaware, Ohio. This commen- which we give thanks, or disas- God is in this event – in the right question. The “why” ques- ous as we remember that surely as tary is part of a special DVD/CD ters like the tsunami that cause tears of those who mourn, in the tion is imponderable, and it is as you note the fall of a sparrow, you resource developed by United inexpressible sorrow and loss. joy of those who survived, in the old as human kind. An answer that have noted the perishing of each Methodist Communications to We know such events are the re- numbness of those who wonder blames God rises out of a culture person made in your image and help individuals, groups and con- sult of the physics and forces of about the future and in the anguish and time that did not know all that have gently noted and cared for gregations address questions re- a natural world where shifts of of those who try to get through we know about how the natural their beings as only you can. lated to God’s presence amid trag- tectonic plates cause the earth to each day. God surely is in this world operates. It is now a scien- Remove from our thoughts edy. Details on the “God, Why?” tremble, and in this case, huge event in the hands and feet of tific question, not a faith question. all judgment or smugness or project are available at waves to cross the ocean’s sur- those who carry the stuff of relief The faith question is the “where” pride of religion or place, that www.umc.org. Hoosier United 18 Methodists YOUTH & YOUNG ADULTS together March 2005

Brookville Help children show children they ‘CARE’ understand By Alison Bartels natural Lauren and Mitchell Evans wanted to give more than their allow- disasters ance to the South Asia Tsunami relief effort. After learning about the By Mary Alice Cran devastation of the Dec. 26 disaster, 11-year-old Lauren and 8-year- old Mitchell approached their mother and told her of their concern. Natural disasters do not “They were very distressed at what happened,” said Lynn Edwards, happen every day, but they their mother, member and secretary at Brookville (Ind.) United Meth- do happen, and children can odist Church. “They said they were most be deeply affected by them. willing to send their allowances, but the Lauren and Mitchell Edwards press buttons printed with the Greyhounds ♦ Listen to a child’s con- wanted to be able to do more.” CARE design. cerns and questions. That night, Edwards sat down with Take each child seriously, her children to brainstorm about how helped sell the items. “A lot of the kids got really excited about what’s and know that different they could contribute to the relief. They going on and bought several t-shirts for their family members” Ed- children react differently. decided to sell T-shirts and buttons at wards said. Their worries may seem school and donate the profit to the re- Of the 150 shirts they started with, only 26 are left. trivial to you, but not to lief effort. Lauren and Mitchell plan to set up shop outside a local grocery them. Speak to their con- “The kids and I worked together on store and a high school basketball game to sell the remainder of the cerns directly in age-ap- the design,” Edwards said, “but I want- shirts and buttons. propriate language. ed them to own the project.” Mitchell, The children expect to gross over $1,200 to send to the relief effort. ♦ Be careful with state- a third-grader at Brookville Elementa- Edwards believes her children have a good grasp on the reality of ments such as, “This is ry School sat down with Principle Mike the Tsunami disaster. God’s will.” God set into Blitz, and fifth-grader Lauren spoke “We had been talking about it at church and Sunday school,” Ed- being all the cycles of with Principle Gary Frost at Brookville Middle School. The project wards said, “and for several weeks we lit a peace candle at church for creation, but God does was approved at both schools. the tsunami victims.” Additionally, they discussed the tragedy at home not want people to suffer. A local T-shirt supplier agreed to make and sell the shirts at a very and looked at pictures of the damage on the Internet. God’s ultimate will is for reasonable cost, Edwards said, so the children ordered 150 shirts. “We talked about how God is grieving with us,” Edwards said. us to be happy, healthy, Additionally, they designed and ordered 500 buttons for the project. Both Lauren and Mitchell are involved in other service efforts. Mitch- loved and in full relation- The response to the children’s effort was wonderful, Edwards said. ell is a Boy Scout and Lauren volunteers her time to help special needs ship with God. At the elementary school, the student government pitched in and students at school. ♦ Make a card or other gift to send to a child caught in crisis. Pay your child Students in a class are out of harm’s way in Sudan to do extra chores so they By Chris Herlinger gram manager. can donate the money to At the very least, students in help someone in need. ZALINGEI, Sudan (CWS) – Za- class are out of harm’s way and ♦ When a crisis gets news linei, Garsila and other cities in can rebuild a little semblance exposure, don’t watch it West Darfur, temporary locales for of normality – many have lost on TV unendingly. A few thousands of Darfur’s displaced, family members and friends in moments at a time is fine, are palpably tense places now. the last year of violence. but help the child to fo- Hope is in very short supply A day at school can be a very cus on other, everyday here though what little sense of en- small balm – both for a trau- activities. couragement that can be eked out matized child and a trauma- ♦ Most of all, pray for those is the continued commitment of tized society. caught in the crisis, pray Sudanese of all ages to education. “Our presence must have for your child, pray for Even children whose villages an impact,” said Akwoc of wisdom for yourself that were attacked in spasms of vio- the SCC. you can help your child lence in the last year carried their Church World Service staff- develop healthy ways of books and school bags as fami- er Chris Herlinger recently dealing with crisis. lies fled to nearby towns and dis- completed a three-week-long Mary Alice Cran serves placement camps. assignment in Darfur, Sudan, as director of children’s At the Hassa Hissa Camp on the on behalf of CWS, Lutheran ministries at the General edge of the city of Zalingei – a World Relief and other mem- Board of Discipleship in Photo by Chris Herlinger/CWS tough, blighted, almost irredeem- bers of the Action by Church- Nashville, Tenn. ably harsh place – it is possible to es Together (ACT) Interna- Students at a school run by the Sudan Council of Churches (SCC) at the Hassa Hissa Camp on the edge of the city of Zalingei. see a group of disarmingly enthu- tional network. siastic students learning English at a school run by the Sudan Council of Churches (SCC), a partner of Church World Service and Luthe- Student Forum meets in May at Millsaps ran World Relief and a member of This year’s national Student Forum will be May 26-29 at Mill- the Action by Churches Together saps College in Jackson, Miss. (ACT) network. With the theme “Thy Kingdom Come: Becoming the Body of “The children are very interest- Christ,” student participants will meet together for worship, lead- ed in going to school and they are ership training, networking, community service and a lot of fun much, much happier now,” said with their peers from across the church. Mohammed Ahmed Hajam, head- Student Forum is the annual leadership conference of the Unit- master of the school for 1,600 stu- ed Methodist Student Movement. College students from across the dents, ages 13-16. country are encouraged to serve as delegates from each annual The SCC’s commitment to ed- conference to Student Forum. ucation in the current humanitari- For additional information, go to www.umsm.org/studentforum or an crisis in Darfur is no accident, call 615-340-7415. said Joseph Akwoc, an SCC pro- Hoosier United YOUTH & YOUNG ADULTS Methodists 19 www.inareaumc.org together ‘Joan of Arcadia’ helps families, teens discuss touchy topics By Vicki Brown God appearing in the guise of a hot guy, a punk kid, a suburban The popular TV The idea of God talking to a mom or the cafeteria lady, both teenage girl might sound like a adults and teens cite realism as one show does a good conversation stopper, but parents of the show’s strengths. job getting young and teens who are fans of “Joan Many TV shows aimed at teens of Arcadia” say the television dra- feature the stereotypical popular, people to consider ma provides a weekly basis for pretty girl, the jock and the out- faith questions. discussions about faith, relation- sider rebel character, or else the ships and a host of other real-life shows are sex-obsessed, says Me- topics. lissa Caldwell, director of research Joan that her friendship kept the An episode early this year, in and publications for the Parents boy from going to school and which one of Joan’s best friends Television Council. The organiza- shooting classmates and teachers. dies in a drug-related stabbing, has tion gave its seal of approval to “She saved the lives of dozens 15-year-old Meghin Stevens of the CBS show with a caution that of classmates because he felt so New York talking to her parents it’s not suitable for younger chil- isolated. He would have come to about recklessness. dren because of themes such as school and shot several class- “We have been talking about death and dying and sexuality. mates. (Joan’s action is) certainly how teenagers seem to think “The main character, she’s not consistent with Christian teaching Cast of Joan of Arcadia portrays realistic perspective of teenage and they’re invincible and do insane, the most popular girl, not the pret- and doctrine of loving your ene- adult life issues. reckless things, like Judith, and tiest girl or the smartest, but she my,” Caldwell says. does a good job getting young peo- not doubt but certitude. how her death affected Joan and has a close circle of friends,” Cald- While the show takes a nonde- ple to consider faith questions. “In a prophetic tradition, she’s made her so angry at God for tak- well says. She adds that almost nominational approach with no The show presents a complex praying by talking to God; she ing her best friend away, even if it every episode includes subject mention of Jesus or specific doc- view of a God who is with Joan but wrestles with him and she gets was Judith’s time to go,” writes matter that could start a family trines, the Rev. Christopher Rob- does not step in and miraculously angry with him,” Robinson says. Stevens, who visits an online fan discussion. inson says it’s clearly coming from make her brother walk again or fix “God is complicated, and every- site. Although Stevens is not a “There was an episode about a Judeo-Christian, even prophetic, her problems. For instance, Rob- thing doesn’t end up OK, but she churchgoer, she believes in God bullying in which Joan tries to be tradition. Robinson, a Catholic inson says he was stunned to hear has a relationship with God.” and says the show has strength- friends with the bully,” Caldwell priest and professor of religious a line in one show that was straight Vicki Brown serves as a ened her faith. says. Although the bully still goes studies at DePaul University in from Thomas Aquinas, when God freelance writer for United Meth- Despite the outlandish idea of to jail, the character of God shows Chicago, says the popular TV show tells Joan the opposite of faith is odist Communications. Providing inner-city youth with new opportunities Launched in the summer of tion with a number of local so- In 2005, Outdoor Ministries 2002, South Indiana Conference’s “Camp Encounter has been challenging cial service agencies, is commit- needs to raise funds to cover the Camp Encounter provided 23 at ted to the long-term goal of pro- entire cost of Camp Encounter. risk inner-city youth with a unique and exciting. It’s been hard work, but work viding inner-city at risk youth How can you help? opportunity to experience the love has been worth the reward.” with a fulfilling summer camp ♦ Prayer: Pray for the director, of Christ in a rural outdoor setting; experience. Consequently, each counseling staff and youth that — Danny Walker, Director, Camp Encounter by 2004 the number of campers youth who attends Camp En- will attend Camp Encounter in attending Camp Encounter had counter is provided with a schol- the summer of 2005. nearly doubled. rience a fireside worship service Field trips designed to allow youth arship to cover the cost of their ♦ Financial Support: It cost $225 Based at Camp Rivervale near or the beauty of a star filled sky to experience rural country life in- camping experience. For the for each youth to attend camp. Mitchell, Ind. close to Spring Mill unaffected by light pollution. clude visiting a commercial farm past three years, Camp Encoun- For more information about State Park, Camp Encounter al- Campers are encouraged to devel- and an afternoon of horseback ter has been fully funded by a how you can make a tax-deduct- lows inner-city youth to experi- op a personal relationship with riding. generous grant form the Lilly ible donation please call Kevin ence the great outdoors. For many, Christ through Bible study, devo- South Indiana Conference Endowment. However, this Wringley toll-free at 800-919- it may be their first time to expe- tions, singing, dance and worship. Outdoor Ministries, in conjunc- funding ended in 2004. 8160. Credit of debit? Scholarships available Need or want? for undergraduates in Financial tips for young adults South Indiana According to Forbes magazine, 1.6 million per- account. And save sonal bankruptcies were filed in 2003, up to 7.4 per- receipts. They may The South Indiana United Miller at the South Indiana cent from 2002. It seems that many people haven’t be handy later this Methodist Conference Board of Conference Center by calling learned how to handle money wisely. spring as you calcu- Higher Education and Campus toll-free 800-919-8160 or by e- How well do you understand and plan your late your taxes. Ministry is anxious to get the mail to [email protected]. finances? Do you make rou- word out to high school seniors This past year the United Some young adults have trouble with cred- tine expenditures on and undergraduate college stu- Methodist Higher Education it cards. It’s easy to get a card to view the cred- luxuries? A weekly dents about its intention to Foundation offered an Annual it limit as an open invitation to spend. But cred- dinner club or frequent award small ($250 to $1,000) Conference Scholars Program it comes from the bank, and banks are in busi- lunches out with co-work- scholarships, to students who Award. That foundation has ness to make money. The bank makes money ers? Be aware of the math. will be matriculating at a Unit- discontinued this award. A by charging interest on the credit card balance At just $20 a week, you can ed Methodist-related college or Merit Scholarship application if the bill is not paid entirely by the monthly due spend $1,040 a year at restaurants. Is it worth it? university in the fall. will be sent to those that have date. Create a budget. Basic bookkeeping helps you These scholarships are made submitted an application for Another danger is accrued interest. Put sim- understand where your money goes. Manage your directly to the students and are this previous Scholars Award. ply, accrued interest it the extra money you get expenses against your income. designed to assist with the Please announce this schol- charged because you owe the bank money. In a short When extra expenses arise, go back to the bud- many unexpected expenses stu- arship information to the stu- time you could owe more than you originally “bor- get. Make adjustments form one category to anoth- dents encounter when starting dents in your congregations. rowed” to buy that wide-screen television or designer er, but stick to it. After all, fiscal responsibility is n a new academic year. Applications must be received jacket. act of stewardship. To receive a Merit Scholar- at the South Indiana Confer- To prevent mounting debts, use a debit rather Reprinted from Interpreter January 2005. Sub- ship application, contact Elsie ence Center by July 15. than a credit card. Using a debit card will keep scribe to Interpreter Magazine, a journal for United you from spending money not already in your bank Methodist leaders, at www.interpretermagazine.org. Hoosier United 20 Methodists CHRONICLES together March 2005

ACTS OF THE APOSTLES Senior women add to ministry ‘just for fellowship’ By M. Alice Crawford just for fellowship. Patty Peters and that day about three thousand per- Clara Lou Fredenburgh wanted to The one that stands out as a wee bit sons were added. They devoted I recently became the pastor of serve these women in thanks for all themselves to the apostles’ teach- Rising Sun (Ind.) United Method- that they had done for their church. different is the Agape Fellowship. ing and fellowship, to the break- ist Church, a small membership So they promoted a Tuesday morn- ing of bread and the prayers.” church in southeast Indiana. It was ing coffee hour for fellowship. These women, from my church not long before I discovered the Clara Lou and Patty prepare Even so, in the course of about es as well. This month the group and from other churches, gather many ways members of this church sumptuous snacks, coffee and tea an hour and a half, they share prayer will begin advertising in the local because they have heard the mes- seek to enact their faith. However, ready to serve at 10 a.m. The la- concerns, have me call someone weekly newspaper so that women sage, were baptized and have de- the one that stands out as a wee bit dies trickle in a little early or a lit- they haven’t heard from lately, share from other churches and those who voted themselves to teaching and different is the Agape Fellowship. tle late – just as their schedules cute stories they’ve gathered that do not attend church at all will communion and prayers as well as Agape Fellowship is a group of allow. Soon there is a group of week and sign cards that they want know about them and hopefully various forms of fellowship. This women, mostly 70+, who have eight to12 women happily chatting to send to friends and family who join them in “just fellowship.” is just one more form of that im- long been active in the church, or a and sharing the week’s activities are not well or having a tough time. As I have watched these wom- portant piece of the puzzle that church. Two women in their 60s as they share snacks. There is no But rest assured, they are there “just en during the last two months that makes up the happy life of a Chris- who were active in the Rising Sun planned program, no preconceived for fellowship.” I have been with this church, the tian – just for fellowship. United Methodist Women thought notion of what the group should This group began in early 2004 verses from Acts 2:41-42 comes M. Alice Crawford services as it would be nice to give these older do. They are adamant that they are and has successfully grown to in- to mind: “So those who welcomed pastor of Rising Sun United Meth- women an opportunity to gather there “just for fellowship.” clude women from other church- his message were baptized, and odist Church. APPOINTMENTS ACTS OF THE APOSTLES Bishop Michael J. Coyner has Myers, Raymond P. from Moores announced the following chang- Hill, Columbus to no appoint- Cowboy church whoops it up in Hartford City es within the Indiana Area. All ment, 2/28 By Ed Fenstermacher church circuit of Saturday- shippers are either a part of Trin- dates effective 2005 unless other- Nester, Jonetta from no appoint- evening Cowboy Church servic- ity Church or some other church wise noted. These appointments ment, Bloomington to Poplar The third Saturday of each es in the area, three of which are in the area. are based on Cabinet reports re- Grove (Mt. Olive Charge), month, one likely to see cow- sponsored by other churches. Since June 2004, this unique ceived by Indiana Area Commu- Bloomington, 01/01/ boy boots and hats on those at- Trinity’s Cowboy Church ser- service has averaged over 200 nication during the month of Feb- Payton, Dennis from Loogootee, tending Hartford City Trinity vice – which has no sermon and people each month and has been ruary 2005. Vincennes to Senior Pastor, UMC’s 7 p.m. worship service. features a country-western and a very positive influence on the Mooresville, Bloomington, 07/ Why? Because it’s Cowboy southern Gospel style of music – congregation. North Indiana Conference 01 Church! has developed a unique constitu- Ed Fenstermacher serves as Brown, Lark from Battleground, Roeder, Craig from Millgrove According to the Rev. Phil ency. Each month, about half of North Indiana Conference Asso- Lafayette to Involuntary leave Associate, Bloomington to no Abram, the church’s pastor, this those attending do not have a ciate Director for Church Devel- of absence, 2/1 appointment, 2/4 service is actually a part of a four- church home. The rest of the wor- opment and Revitalization. Crotinger, Francis Allen from no Torrance, Michael G. from no ap- appointment to Marion pointment to Bethel Associate, PROVERBS Christland, Marion, 2/1 Indianapolis West, 12/15/04 White, Brian from no appointment Wibert, Gerald R. from Sunrise at to Battleground, Lafayette, 2/1 Geist, Indianapolis East to Castleton Associate, India- “Even though we may not feel God’s presence, South Indiana Conference napolis East, 12/1/04 Beckman, Robert from Green- Wyatt, Joe Curtis, from New that doesn’t mean that God’s not there.” wood/Old Franklin, Rushville Castle First, Rushville to Lin- – Linda Ward, a native of Sri Lanka and pastor of Anderson Hill UMC to no appointment, 1/15 den, Indianapolis West, 7/1 in Cincinnati, Ohio, in response to the South Asia Tsunami. Ison, David from no appointment Young, Morris Gene from Sr. Pas- to Freetown/Surprise, tor, Mooresville, Bloomington Bloomington, 02/015 to retirement, 6/30 UTS purchases new campus in Trotwood DAYTON, Ohio –The Rev. G. renovated to accommodate the A committee is being formed Edwin Zeiders, president of Unit- seminary. Seminary officials are to celebrate the seminary’s histo- NUMBERS ed Theological Seminary in Day- planning for renovations to begin ry and transition, as well as a few ton, signed Feb. 18 the documents in April and for fall 2005 classes ad hoc groups/management teams that closed the purchase of a new to be held in the new location. for various aspects of the work Indiana children campus in Trotwood, Ohio. The Next steps for the seminary in- ahead, which includes the move Number of children who by abuse or neglect property, formerly owned by the clude finalizing concept and en- and the use of the recreation fa- 57 died in Indiana in a yearlong period that ended Jewish Federation of Dayton, con- gineering drawings, continuing to cilities at the new location. in June 2004. sists of an 80-acre campus at 4501 sharpen the time line for renova- For more information, contact Denlinger Rd. tions, contracting with sub-con- United Theological Seminary at Number of children who died of neglect (62 The new site includes a 78,000- tractors and planning the launch 937-278-5817 or log on to 35 percent). square-foot building which will be of a major capital campaign. www.united.edu. Number of children who died of abuse (39 22 percent). Number of perpetrators responsible for a child’s 82 death in the same time period. Number of recommendations being considered 32 to improve Child Protective Services by state legislators and the governor. The recommendations were made by the Indiana Commission on Neglected and Abused Children and Their Families. Source: State of Indiana Hoosier United CHRONICLES Methodists 21 www.inareaumc.org together

GENESIS North Indiana church adopts Hispanic congregation By Ed Fenstermacher searching for a new home. With fix solutions to turning around the an openness to new opportunities, North Indiana has a number of churches aging congregation. Little did they Christ United Methodist Christ Church’s council voted realize that God would bring a so- Church, like many other North unanimously not only to provide providing worship space for Spanish- lution in the form of adopting the Indiana churches, has an aging the Reyes’ congregation space, speaking congregations, but few, if any, Reyes’ congregation. membership and many of its mem- but also to adopt the congregation The church’s church council’s bers no longer live in the church’s into the Christ Church family. In have resulted in a joint adoption. initial reaction was surprise, yet neighborhood. return, the Reyes and their con- after some thought joining forc- Its Southside Fort Wayne gregation decided to adopt Christ can two congregations from two gregation arose, months of prayer es with Reyes’ congregation neighborhood has changed dra- Church into their congregation. different cultures take such a big had already prepared the church’s made perfect sense. The bottom matically since the church was So the two churches became step so quickly? The Rev. Jill heart for such an opportunity. line is that it brought the congre- founded in the early ’50s. Most one. They both have a common Wright, Christ Church’s pastor, is The congregation’s heart also gation renewed excitement and recently there has been an influx budget; Sergio has officially quick to point out that a key com- was prepared through continual re- passion for ministry. of Spanish-speaking families. joined Christ Church’s staff as the ponent was prayer and the work minders – through sermons and dis- On Jan. 30, 40 people from Those volunteering with the church’s director of Hispanic min- of the Holy Spirit. cussions by members at all levels – Reyes’ congregation held its first church’s thrift store and food pan- istry; and it’s anticipated that the For the past 18 months, Christ that the church’s purpose is to service at the church. Now, Christ try have become increasingly Spanish-speaking members will Church has had a weekly prayer make disciples, and its vision is to Church – which had been a mix- frustrated because they’re unable soon become official members of group made up of a few faithful reach and serve its neighborhood. ture of two ethnic groups (75 per- to communicate with more and Christ United Methodist Church. people. This group has been pray- Last year Wright, along with cent white and 25 percent black) more of those they’re serving. In North Indiana has a number of ing that the church would be open key lay leaders from the church, – is truly a multi-cultural church this setting, God has begun to do churches providing worship space to newcomers, be brought visitors have been meeting with other with three distinctive ethnic a new thing. for Spanish-speaking congrega- from God, praise and thank God neighboring central-city United groups. Praise God! Earlier this year, Christ Church tions, but few, if any, have result- for trusting such souls to the Methodist churches. Through Ed Fenstermacher serves as was approached by Sergio and ed in a joint adoption, as Christ church, and be open to the lead- these on-going meetings, Christ North Indiana Conference Asso- Janie Reyes, pastors of a growing Church has done. ing of God’s spirit. When the op- Church’s leadership began realiz- ciate Director for Church Devel- Hispanic congregation that was So how did this happen? How portunity to adopt the Reyes’ con- ing that there would be no quick- opment and Revitalization. 19th World Methodist Conference to meet in South Korean The Korean Methodist Church Both the North Indiana and United Methodist Church’s dele- has invited the World Methodist South Indiana Annual Conferenc- Bishop Coyner to name Hoosier gation to the 2006 World Meth- family to come to Korea in 2006 es are each entitled to nominate odist Council, and to designate 35 for the next meeting of the World two people who will serve on the representatives to Council and Conference people from each of the two an- Methodist Council and for the upcoming World Methodist Coun- nual conferences as official dele- 19th World Methodist Confer- cil. Those nominated to serve as a wishing to serve on the Council, ferencesare each entitled to send gates to the 19th World Method- ence. According to organizers, member of the World Methodist need to submit their names as one 35 delegates who will be invited ist Conference from the Indiana there is much excitement already Council serve at their own ex- of the nominees to their annual to represent The United Method- Area. The World Council of about the Conference and the host pense, often with assistance from conference. ist Church at the Conference. Churches will send official invi- church’s invitation to experience their annual conference or congre- The 19th World Methodist Indiana Bishop Michael J. tations to each of these designat- the Korean Church and culture. gation. Council membership re- Conference is scheduled to be Coyner has been invited by ed people and will provide infor- The World Methodist Council quires and is confirmed by atten- held July 20-24, 2006 at the Kum- George H. Freeman, general sec- mation about the Confernce, reg- is scheduled to meet July 18-19, dance at the Council meeting in nan Methodist Church in Seoul, retary of the World Methodist istration procedures, accomoda- 2006 at Chong Dong Methodist Seoul, South Korea in July 2006. South Korea. The theme of the Council, to name Hoosier United tions and other information. The Church in Seoul, Korea. The 500 Bishops and heads of member Conference is “God in Christ Rec- Methodists to represent the North Council asks that represetative members of the Council meet ev- churches are not automatically onciling.” Both the North Indiana Indiana and South Indiana Annu- delegations be inclusive of cler- ery five years. members of the Council. Those and South IndianaAnnual Con- al Conferences as part of The gy, laity, men, women and youth. DEATHS Evan Michael Anderson, the sister and brother; four step-chil- Feb. 21 at the Albright UMC in Publishers Weekly grandson of the Rev. Marvin dren; ten step-grandchildren; and Mishawaka, Ind. Survivors Anderson, retired (NIC), and son seven step-great-grandchildren. include: his mother, Myla J. of Karl and Rachel Anderson, was Memorials can be given to the (Landis) Snider of Mishawaka; Top Ten stillborn on Feb. 11, 2005. Con- Scott UMC, 7020 N. 675 W., and two sisters, Carol J. Hummer dolences can be sent to: the Rev. Shipshewana, IN 46565. Condo- and Mary R. Trimboli, both of Religion Books Marvin Anderson and Family; lences can be sent to the Rev. Granger. Condolences may be 1. Your Best Life Now: 7 Steps to Living at Your Full 55960 Kathryn Dr.; Elkhart, IN Mildred Kruse, 2455 St. Pauls Dr., sent to Myla Snider, The 46514 Titusville, FL 32780. Waterford, 1025 Park Pl., Apt. Potential. Joel Osteen, Warner Faith; Mozelle DeLong, widow of Ellen Plott, widow of the late 242, Mishawaka, IN 46545-3550. 2. The Purpose-Driven Life. Rick Warren, Zondervan; the Rev. Robert DeLong, retired Rev. Ranold Plott (NIC), died Feb. Paul Souder, son of David 3. Come Thirsty. Max Lucado, W Publishing Group; (NIC), died Feb. 23, 2005. Survi- 21, 2005. Survivors include her sis- Souder (NIC) (Administrator and 4. God’s Politics: Why the Right Gets It Wrong and the vors include son: Stephen De- ter: Mrs. Betty Black; daughters: CEO of the United Methodist Me- Left Doesn’t Get It. Jim Wallis, HarperCollins; Long, 60 Woodlake Rd #8, Alba- Nancy Stringham and Sondra Sax- morial Home, 801 Huntington Ave., 5. Wild at Heart. John Eldredge, Thomas Nelson; ny, NY 12203; niece: Babs Dou- ton Wyatt, Fla.; four grandchildren; Warren, IN 46792) was killed in a glas and nephew: Barry Douglas. and 13 great-grandchildren. Condo- airplane accident in Leesburg, Fla. 6. Epic. John Eldredge, Nelson; Amy Henry, wife of Dan Hen- lences can be sent to Nancy String- on Feb. 14, 2005. Memorials may 7. He-Motions. T. D. Jakes, Putnam; ry (Jurisdictional president of ham, 810 N. Concord St., Valparai- be made to the Pilot Missionary 8. It’s Not About Me. Max Lucado, Integrity; United Methodist Men), died Feb. so, IN 46383. Memorials may be Fund, in care of the United Meth- 9. Against All Odds: My Story. Chuck Norris, 16, 2005.Condolences can be sent given to the VNA Hospice Home odist Memorial Home. Broadman & Holman; to Dan Henry, 227 Charlotte Lane, Care, 501 Marquette St., Valparai- Anna Whitesell, mother-in- 10. Rise, Let Us Be on Our Way. Pope John Paul II, Bolingbrook, IL 60440-1371. so, IN 46383. law of the Rev. Thomas C. Rough, James V. Kruse, husband of Theodore W. Snider, Jr., son retired (NIC), died Feb. 17, 2005. Warner Faith. the Rev. Mildred Kruse, retired of the late Rev. Theodore W. Janet Rough’s address is: 7334 E – Source Publishers Weekly.com (NIC), died Jan. 30, 2005. Survi- Snider, Sr. (NIC), died Feb. 16, Eagle Feather Road, Scottsdale, vors include his wife, Mildred; a 2005. A memorial services was Arizona 85262. Hoosier United 22 Methodists CHRONICLES together March 2005

BODY, MIND AND SPIRIT CALENDAR OF EVENTS AND HAPPENINGS Peacemaker workshop scheduled for For more information about the April 16 Auxilia- Christian clichés ry Program, contact Susan Bennett at 765-482-5900 By Todd Outcalt Jesus Do?” Now, maybe I’m April 2 at Bloomington or send an e-mail inquiry to [email protected] No just an armchair theologian, but Bonnie McComber, director of Peacemaker Medi- reservations are required. Come and enjoy the day One of my pet peeves is wouldn’t the better question be: ation and coordinator of the Oregon-Idaho Conference with the youth in care. overhearing Christian clichés “What would Jesus have me Response Team, will lead a Laity Leadership Acade- Indiana United Methodist Children’s Home is an or, even more troubling, Chris- do?” The latter question seems my workshop April 2 from 9 to 4 at North UMC in outreach ministry of both the North and South Indi- tians using clichés. more Gospel-ori- Indianapolis on “Peacemakers in the Congregation Part ana Conferences of The United Methodist Church. Not long ago I was ented, more Two.” The Home is a residential treatment facility for emo- with a grieving fam- grounded in the The workshop will focus on conflict intervention tionally troubled youth and serves an average of 165 ily at the funeral realm of theology methods, polarities and a continued emphasis on recog- boys and girls and their families each year from home and happened and Christian prac- nizing the roles played individually in conflict situations. across the state. to catch part of a tice. Personally, I The workshop is sponsored by the South Indiana Con- conversation in the have no idea what ference Boards of Laity and Ordained Ministry. Church Vision Conference coming receiving line. An Jesus would do in The cost to SIC churches is $40 per church. The older woman – well most situations, cost to other churches is $60 per church. Individual to Goshen in April meaning, I’m sure – (that’s why he’s registrations are $40 per person. Goshen First United Methodist presents “Church greeted the grieving Outcalt Jesus and I’m not!) Registration deadline is March 11. Make checks Vision Conference, Transitions: dream, converge, widow with, “Remember – the Would Jesus drive a BMW or payable to South Indiana Conference and send to Lead- lead, explore, vision, breath, celebrate, strategize, body is just a shell; his spirit is a 1976 Pinto? Would Jesus play ership Academy, 1520 S. Liberty Dr., Bloomington, ignite. April 20-22. Much of the conference will be gone and now there’s another football and serve up a helmet- IN 47403. For more information, call toll-free 800- held at The Life Center. For more information, call flower in the garden of God.” I to-helmet tackle? Friends, I 919-8160. 574-533-9518 or log on to www.goshenfirstumc.org. wondered: had this woman ac- don’t know if Jesus would own tually stopped to consider the a car or pray in the end zone! Sonshiners in concert April 3 at Pastoral Ministry in Cross Cultural impact of her words or pon- Clichés are like junk food. dered the theology (or lack They don’t teach us much or Bloomington Settings offered in Bloomington thereof) behind her cliché? offer anything of depth to the Fairview United Methodist Church in Bloomington, The South Indiana Conference Center will host Over the years I’ve heard recipient. Clichés don’t offer Ind., presents in concert the well known gospel group, this Laity Leadership Academy event on Saturday, just about every cliché imagin- comfort or presence in other Sonshiners on Sunday, April 3 at the 10:30 a.m. wor- May 7 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The registration dead- able. Clichés seem to come and people’s pain. Call me old- ship. Friends of gospel music in the greater Blooming- line in April 22. go in the church – those cute fashioned, but I think there’s ton community are welcome at this special concert. The workshop will examine the concept of cul- catch phrases that flow in and more of the Gospel in “I’m sor- Fairview is located at 600 West Sixth Street. ture: faith and culture in Christian history, the no- out of style like neckties and ry” and “thank you” and “par- Ample parking is available. Enter from Seventh tion of doing theology and pastoral ministry in con- plaid sport jackets. Some years don me” than there is in most Street side. For additional information, call the text, desired qualities and attributes of the pastoral ago it seemed everyone was Christian slogans or highway church office at 812-339-9484. minister in cross cultural settings and guideline for saying, “Let go and let God” – billboards. Living as a witness, intercultural contact in ministry. whatever that meant! Then offering words of heart-felt United Methodist Disaster The leader will be Dr. Matovina, associate pro- there was “Go with God” and kindness and sincere expres- fessor of theology and director of the Cuswa Center “Got God?” When I was a kid sions (however insignificant Response Training offered for the Study of American Catholicism at the Uni- some of my friends had bumper they may seem), is what we are Saturday, April 9, South Indiana Conference Cen- versity of Notre Dame. stickers that read: “God is my called to offer others. Jesus ter, 1520 S. Liberty Dr, Bloomington, IN 47403-5167 Cost: $40 for SIC churches. For churches beyond Co-pilot,” and I saw another asked us to incarnate care, not Gordon Knuckey, an experienced representative SIC the cost is $60 per church. Individual registra- one recently resurrected on the serve it up as the latest maxim of United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR), tion is $40. Make checks payable to South Indiana back of a 2004 Lexus: “In case or hot catch-phrase. will be here to present Disaster Response Training, Conference and send to Leadership Academy, 1520 of rapture, this driver will dis- I’ll go out on a limb here and beginning at 9 a.m. The presentation is scheduled S. Liberty Dr., Bloomington, IN 47403. appear.” I guess that person had venture that Jesus himself for four to five hours. A box lunch will be provided been reading the Left Behind wouldn’t wear a wristband (or at the Center. Making a Good Move There is no cost for this training. Make RSVP to series and wanted to go in style probably own one). I don’t The South Indiana Conference Center will host (which is another prominent think he would offer any clichés Elsie at the SIC Center. Call toll-free 800-919-8160 or by e-mail to [email protected]. We need to know this day long seminar for all ministers who are mov- and popular theology filling the to others without first offering ing to a new appointment this year and for all pas- airwaves and the bookshelves himself. And I doubt he would how many lunches to provide. This training will be held at the same time as a tor/staff parish committees who are expecting a new right now). wear a cross as advertisement. pastor. Another of the more recent Although, I do think he Volunteer in Mission session with Lorna Jost presid- ing. Jost serves as the Administrator of the North The seminar is scheduled for Saturday, May 21 clichés has been “WWJD” – would carry a cross – and he’d from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the South Indiana Confer- and in case you’ve been hiding ask us to do the same. Central Jurisdiction Volunteer in Mission program- ming. ence Center in Bloomington, Ind. Registration dead- under a rock (or don’t have a Todd Outcalt serves as se- line is April 29. bracelet, wristband or necklace nior pastor of Calvary United For more information or questions, contact Bob Babcock at 317-459-2445 or 317-745-7513 or by e- Leaders for the event will be Dr. Doug Ander- bearing those letters) – that’s an Methodist Church in son, executive director of the Bishop Rueben Job acronym for “What Would Brownsburg, Ind. mail to [email protected]. Volunteer in Mission Coordinator: Carolyn Ellis call 812-882-2715 or by Center for Leadership Development at Dakota e-mail to [email protected]. Wesleyan University and Bishop Mike Coyner. Cost: $40 for SIC churches. For churches beyond SIC the cost is $60 per church. Individual registra- Do you have a heart Children’s Home Auxiliary tion is $40. Make checks payable to South Indiana Program Scheduled for April 16 Conference and send to Leadership Academy, 1520 for small churches? LEBANON, Ind. – The annual Indiana United Meth- S. Liberty Dr., Bloomington, IN 47403. The North Indiana Confer- believe after prayerful consid- odist Children’s Home Auxiliary Program will be ence Small Church Advocacy eration that you could and held on Saturday, April 16, beginning at 10 a.m. at North Indiana Conference to hold Team is seeking committed lay should commit a few Saturdays Gress Memorial Chapel on the Home’s campus in event on Social Princples people and local pastors who each year to helping small Lebanon at 515 W Camp St. One of the highlights of the gathering includes a The North Indiana Conference Board of Church have a heart for small churches, please contact one of and Society has invited the Rev. Jim Winkler, general churches. What is a small the following people: Kayc program featuring some of the youth in the Home’s care. Following the program, lunch will be served secretary of General Board of Church and Society, to church? A small church is one Mykrantz, kayc@crosswind- provide a training event introducing the Social Prin- with average worship atten- ministries.net, Keith Schreffler, on campus (for $1) with the boys and girls in care. ciples to your congregation. dance under 100. [email protected], Tours of the campus will be offered following lunch. This event will take place at Tipton, May 23-24; If you are a committed lay Tom Shanahan, pastortbs- Attending the Auxiliary Program can be an out- person or local pastor with a @yahoo.com, or Don Dexhe- reach ministry trip for any church group including Bishop Coyner will make a presentation on our Wes- heart for small churches and imer, [email protected]. mission outreach committees, Sunday school class- leyan heritage and the importance of the Social Prin- es or United Methodist Women and Men’s groups. ciples. Details to come. Hoosier United NEWS IN BRIEF Methodists 23 www.inareaumc.org together

Retirees in Indiana help Deciding how to respond to a tragedy of rebuild schools in Liberia, such proportions can be daunting. The Unit- DVD/CD about ‘why’ of one desk at a time ed Methodist Committee on Relief has raised more than $10 million as of Jan. 31 Tsunami available from UMCom FRANKFORT, Ind. (UMNS) – In a base- for tsunami relief, and since a large percent- ment woodworking shop, about a dozen age of the survivors are children, those “God, Why? Teach- residents of the United Methodist Church’s funds will provide immediate and long-term ings from the Tsuna- Wesley Manor Retirement Community help to many of them. Beyond that, the mis” is a two-session, have turned a hobby of woodworking into church offers other programs that more spe- small-group study an international outreach, building desks for cifically minister to children. As soon as DVD/CD and collection students in Liberia, where schools have they saw the heart-wrenching photographs, of resources to help been looted during civil wars. The work is people around the world began consider- Christians understand part of Operation Classroom, a United ing whether or not they might be able to God’s presence during Methodist program to help rebuild schools adopt one or more of the children. “The first and after natural disas- in Liberia and Sierra Leone – two coun- reality is that none of the children are ready ters. United Methodist tries that have been wracked by civil wars for adoption,” said Debbie Robinson, ex- Communications creat- in recent years. “A lot of the schools were ecutive director of Miriam’s Promise, an ed the resource, in co- destroyed,” says Don Pershing, a Wesley adoption agency in Nashville related to the operation with the Unit- Manor resident and one of the desk build- United Methodist Church. “The last thing ed Methodist Board of ers. “We saw some (desks) that had been they need is to be swept up by a wave of Global Ministries. Log built, and I said, ‘I think we can do this.’“ well-meaning people moving them from on to www.umc.org. The Wesley Manor woodworkers built 16 their country,” she said. A UMNS photo by Mike DuBose. desks, which have already been shipped to Liberia. They are currently working on sion partnership between the Board of Glo- founded in 1877 by the Evangelical Asso- more. Ganta United Methodist bal Ministries and the Korean community ciation – later the Evangelical United Breth- Hospital provides hope in in Almaty, Kazakhstan. The Rev. Sei Yoon ren Church. It has served since the 1968 Mega church announces Liberia Kim, professor of the Fuller Theological merger of the EUB and Methodist Church plans for mega development GEBEIBINI TOWN, Liberia (UMNS) – Seminary, delivered lectures on new direc- as the theological Seminary for the United Two years ago, Patience Yah Sendolo of tions and ways to share the Gospel in Is- Methodist Church in the German-speaking in Houston, Texas Gebeibini Town lost her sight because of lamic countries. Participants were encour- areas in Europe. It merged with the former HOUSTON (UMNS) – More than 10,000 cataracts. The 16-year-old dropped out of aged to understand trends of the world and Methodist Episcopal Theological Seminary members of the largest U.S. United Meth- school. Her parents were desperate to help find effective ways to spread the word of in Frankfurt/Main, which was founded in odist congregation wept and cheered Jan. her but could not afford to take her to Mon- Jesus Christ. 1869. The accreditation process has taken 30 as leaders unveiled a multifaceted plan rovia, the capital, for surgery. Hope for the more than 20 years. for growth at Windsor Village United Meth- family was restored when the outreach team Claflin students receives odist Church. During a combined “Cele- from the eye project at Ganta United Meth- Sundance Film Festival United Methodist giving is brate Life Together” service at the Toyota odist Hospital arrived in a Jeep to pick up Center, the Rev. Kirbyjon Caldwell intro- nomination up as membership declines Patience and a family member. The cata- United Methodists increased their giv- duced a 10-minute video for the Kingdom racts were removed at the hospital and her ORANGEBURG, S.C. (UMNS) – Daniel Builders Center, including architectural Howard, a freshman mass communications ing by nearly 4 percent to the denomina- sight restored. That is just one of the suc- tion’s churchwide ministry during 2004, renderings for a 6,500-seat sanctuary, a 24- cess stories at Ganta Hospital, according major at United Methodist-related Claflin hour prayer center and a family life com- University, gained a Sundance Film Festi- despite the loss of more than 69,000 mem- to Victor Doolaken Taryor, acting admin- bers. The increase of $4.4 million to the plex in southwest Houston. The primarily istrator. The hospital reopened last March val nomination for his short film entitled African-American congregation meets for “Bullets in the Hood: A Bed-Stuy Story.” United Methodist Church’s seven appor- after being damaged by government and tioned funds marks a reversal from slight its seven weekend services at three differ- rebel forces the previous year. Located in Howard’s story has appeared in The Lon- ent locations, having grown from 25 wor- don Times and aired on CNN and BET decreases in the two preceding years, not- northeastern Liberia, Ganta serves an area ed Sandra Lackore, treasurer and head of shippers in 1982 to its current membership with more than 450,000 inhabitants, along Nightly News. He and his friend, Terrence of more than 14,000. “The Kingdom Build- Fisher, were inspired to document the af- the denomination’s financial agency. Mem- with thousands of Liberians who are being bership declined by 69,141 to a total of less ers Center is going to improve our commu- repatriated after fleeing to Guinea. termath of a controversial shooting last year nity for years to come,” Caldwell said of by a police officer at a Bedford-Stuyvesant than 8.2 million U.S. members, including the planned 423,000-square-foot, self-con- apartment building. Their documentary clergy. This figure is based on congrega- tained facility. Financial details were not Korean United Methodist addresses gun violence and youth. tional statistics collected for 2003 and re- disclosed. council sets vision for 2005- The film, one of 82 selected from 3,887 ported through the annual conferences in 2008 entries worldwide, competed in the docu- spring 2004. These numbers reflect a de- mentary category of the film festival. The cline in U.S. membership that has been United Methodists continue HOUSTON (UMNS) – The Korean church ongoing for at least three decades. hurricane aid in Alabama- is a “gifted community with much to offer festival, founded by actor Robert Redford, the whole church,” said Bishop Hee-Soo ran Jan. 20-30 in Park City, Utah. Howard West Florida Jung, speaking to leaders at the organiza- has earned an Emma Bowen Foundation NOMADS support Wiley ATMORE, Ala. (UMNS) – United Meth- tional meeting of the United Methodist four-year scholarship and will have the NOMADS (Nomads On a Mission Ac- odist churches throughout the Alabama- Council on Korean American Ministries. chance to participate in an internship at an tive in Divine Service) from the six United West Florida Annual (regional) Conference Thirty-one Korean-American lay and cler- NBC affiliate for the rest of his academic Methodist annual conferences that provide are continuing to help their communities gy members attended the council’s meet- career at Claflin, a historically black school. advocacy and financial support to Wiley recover from Hurricane Ivan, four months ing, Jan. 27-29. The bishop said The Kore- College in Marshall, Texas, are on a 12- after the storm. In partnership with the an United Methodist Church could offer “an United Methodist seminary day visit to the historically black school. United Methodist Committee on Relief, the excellence of hospitality,” a class-meeting in Reutlingen to receive They are painting, landscaping, general re- conference expects to be involved in the model for discipleship and “passion for pairs, rebuilding handicap ramps where long-term recovery process for at least two prayer life and missional zeal.” accreditation needed, refinishing furniture, and restruc- to three years. The Rev. Tom Hazelwood, BERLIN (UMNS) – The German State turing the nature trail and the science labo- UMCOR’s U.S. disaster response coordi- Council of Sciences has announced the ratory greenhouses. nator, recently toured many of the areas in Korean conference focuses state accreditation of Reutlingen Theolog- Alabama –West Florida that were most on mission ical Seminary. The council emphasized the People in the News damaged Sept. 16 by Hurricane Ivan. Some LOS ANGELES (UMNS) – More than 190 high academic standard of the United Meth- Robert A. Clark, dean of the School of of his stops included Pensacola, Fla., and Korean United Methodists focused on odist school. After long negotiations, the Business Administration and professor of Gulf Shores, Mobile and Perdido Key, Ala. “Working Together for World Mission” dur- council gave the seminary approval to con- finance at the University of Evansville, Ind., ing a Jan. 24-26 conference at the Los Ange- fer bachelor of arts and master of arts de- became the first holder of the Schroeder Church offers opportunities les Korean United Methodist Church. They grees. Last October, Reutlingen started of- Family Endowed Deanship at the United to help children affected by shared mission stories and discussed build- fering a three-year course of study for the Methodist-related school on Jan. 20. ing a network for future projects, pursuing bachelor’s and a two-year program for the The Rev. Wendy J. Deichmann Ed- South Asia Tsunami new mission strategies and strengthening the master’s. Final approval of the accredita- wards, associate professor of history and NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UMNS) – Thousands partnership between The Korean United tion is expected from the Ministry of Sci- theology at United Theological Seminary of children were left homeless, orphaned Methodist Church and the Board of Global ences of the Federal State of Baden-Würt- in Dayton, Ohio, , was appointed academ- or traumatized after the Dec. 26 tsunami Ministries to help local churches grow. temberg in a few months. ic dean and vice president of academic af- hit 12 countries around the Indian Ocean. The participants also heard about a mis- Reutlingen Theological Seminary was fairs at the seminary, effective July 1.