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$2 October 2013 Scamming the Telephone fraud ring targets the UMC in S.C., nationwide By Jessica Connor soon as I finished reading it my phone rang,” said Benson, who pastors Fairfield , Piedmont. “The The Rev. Carleathea Benson knew something was shady when gentleman asked me if I was Rev. Lea Benson, and I said yes, she got the phone call last month. and he never identified himself, he just said, ‘Would you hold, “The (Anderson) district had sent out a notice the week before Bishop Bledsoe would like to speak to you,’ and then Bishop about a scam, and on Aug. 28 they sent another notice, and as See “Scam,” Page 21 Serving a need at Wallace Family Life Center – Page 18 Hand in hand with the homeless United Methodists work for humane homeless policies in Columbia

By Jessica Connor

COLUMBIA – United Methodists are among a large group standing in solidarity with homeless brothers and sisters after a monthlong firestorm of Helping South Carolina’s rumor and speculation about a crackdown on that children in poverty population in Columbia. – Pages 6-7 Many in Columbia were outraged last month after the Columbia City Council approved moving forward on discussion about new strict emergency Index homeless response efforts in the city. The language Bible School Lessons...... 35 Classifieds...... 34 was confusing to many, who thought the coun- Education & Youth...... 26-29 cil had actually approved Councilman Cameron Health & Fitness...... 17 Runyan’s plan to implement harsh rules guiding History...... 16 loitering, panhandling and the places homeless Local & District News...... 22-25 people can and cannot be in the city. The council Ministries & Missions...... 12-15 Obituaries...... 31 only approved further discussion on the plan. Seniors...... 32 “The original plan was things such as they Upcoming Events...... 34 couldn’t leave the shelter unless they had permis- sion, and the perceived intent was to have home- less people be given the option of getting arrested, going to the shelter or getting out of Columbia. And when you put it that way, obviously there was a lot of uproar,” said Brandon Lazarus, pastoral in- tern at Trenholm Road United Methodist Church, Columbia. “It brought a lot of awareness to the issue in Columbia, but also unfortunately pit- ted many downtown business owners against the @AdvocateSC | AdvocateSC.org homeless and homeless advocates.” Also concerning to many were aspects of the plan such as an out-of-town homeless facility, increased police patrols and a hotline for people to call when they see someone homeless. Photo by Matt Brodie Concerned about a possible city crackdown on homeless activity, many Midlands See “Homeless,” Page 20 United Methodists rallied in support for their homeless neighbors. Bishop leads S.C. group to tour AU, launch hunger project By Jessica Connor tion to Africa University and witness the Rev. John Culp, pastor of Virginia Wing- launch of a new sustainable agriculture ard Memorial United Methodist Church, “We will no longer just hear the story program by Africans for Africans. Columbia, who recently helped construct a of Africa University as it is told. We will Holston will lead the trip Jan. 13-20, UMC in nearby Malawi. witness it in person.” 2014, to Johannesburg and Africa Uni- The class of new clergy ordinands will With those words, S.C. Resident Bishop versity, in Zimbabwe. The trip is planned be going, and all United Methodists across Jonathan Holston is leading South Caro- and inspired with involvement from South the state (clergy and laity) are invited and lina United Methodists 8,000 miles across Carolina native James Salley, associate encouraged to attend. Registration is going the globe. They are heading on a mission vice chancellor for institutional advance- on now. to understand our conference’s connec- ment for Africa University, as well as the See “Africa,” Page 19 Page 2, October 2013 Advocate Advocate October 2013, Page 3 Christian Assistance Bridge a Bishop Willimon to keynote Eben Taylor lecture By Carrie God that we are about doing the work Taylor, a beloved pastor and inspira- memory,” James said. Townsend Jesus started, and Eben continued,” tional presence who led the church from The lecture series travels through ‘stop gap’ for the working poor James said. “We carry that torch.” 1957-1962. James said Cayce is proud South Carolina and once a year stops CAYCE – Bishop All are welcome to attend the lecture, to honor Taylor and open their doors to at a church where Taylor served. This By Jessica Connor Will Willimon which features a worship service in share the commemoration of his is the first year Cayce UMC will be will bring the commemoration of Taylor. Worshippers legacy. hosting. BLYTHEWOOD – Next month, United message for this can expect “rousing music and a great “Eben Taylor is beloved in this con- The church is located at 1600 Methodists north of Columbia will open year’s installment ,” James said. ference; many people want to honor his Twelfth St. in Cayce. Hours/Location doors on a newly repackaged ministry de- of the Eben Taylor Taylor Music will be provided by will be the Open Monday through Friday signed to help the working poor get back Memorial Lecture 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Cayce UMC Choir, University of South S.C. United Methodist Conference on their feet. Series, set for Oct. Carolina Gospel Choir and the Francis Center Christian Assistance Bridge is a new 20 at 7 p.m. in the Cayce United Meth- Burns Choir. 4908 Colonial Drive, Suite 207 service agency on the campus of Trinity Columbia, SC 29203 odist Church sanctuary. The lecture coincides with a special Deadlines: 10th of each month. United Methodist Church, Blythewood, The annual lecture series honors time for Cayce UMC; they are marking that is the metamorphosis of two longtime the life and work of the late Rev. Eben their 100th anniversary this year. Cen- Contacting Us programs operated through the church: a Taylor, who served as a United Method- Telephone: 888-678-6272 or 803-786- tennial celebrations will culminate Oct. 9486 satellite office of The Cooperative Min- ist pastor for many years across South 27 with a worship service led by Bishop Fax: 803-735-8168 istry, which provided emergency assis- Carolina. Taylor is most known for Jonathan Holston, with former pastors E-mail: [email protected] tance through vouchers for rent, utilities, his courage and love through times and members joining in the celebration medicine, gas and more, and the TAB Submissions of racial friction. He held a belief that of Cayce’s heritage and ongoing minis- The Advocate encourages readers to fund (Trinity Assistance Bridge), which everybody deserves justice and mercy try of changing lives and transforming submit for publication items of interest provided that assistance for transients or – a passion that drove him through his to South Carolina United Methodists. communities for Christ. The centennial Photo by Jessica Connor There is no charge for running items those who didn’t quality for Cooperative entire ministry. celebration will conclude Nov. 1, All The Rev. Cathy Jamieson-Ogg, pastor of Trinity UMC, Blythewood, says Christian Assistance involving activities or announcements. Ministry help. “Reverend Taylor was a unique pas- Saints Day, as the church remembers Items should be submitted as far as Christian Assistance Bridge organiz- Bridge is designed to be a ‘stop gap’ for people, who may be one step away from homelessness. possible in advance of the event’s date Their doors will be open Mondays and Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. tor with a prophetic voice and pastoral those who called Cayce home for the or the date of requested publication. ers felt consolidating both programs heart,” said the Rev. Joseph James, pas- past 10 decades; that service begins at Since there is no charge for these into one new nonprofit entity would be tance Bridge; they must have received an two children who sought help just before tor of Cayce UMC. 7 p.m. items, they appear in the newspaper on a streamlined and more effective way eviction or utility cut-off notice. They can Christmas last year, and the ministry had a space-available basis. Deadlines are Cayce is hosting the lecture not only The Taylor lecture series is a key part the 10th of each month for the following to use their energies to help people who get emergency funds from Christian As- just run out of funds. They had to turn her because Taylor served the church as of the celebration. month’s paper. need assistance the most. Nudged by the sistance Bridge just once a year. away, and their hearts were heavy with pastor, but also “to remember a man, The congregation is readily pre- Lord last summer after a wildly success- “We don’t want to create a depen- disappointment. A few minutes later, a Advertising and to remember our call as a people of paring for their opportunity to honor Display ads, classifieds and inserts can ful Blythewood Salkehatchie mission, a dency,” Jamieson-Ogg said, though they man came through the doors and offered be ordered by contacting us at 888- steering committee formed to discern and can get food every 60 days and often are a sizeable donation, and suddenly, they 678-6272 or 803-786-9486, ext. 338, or ultimately flesh out the new nonprofit, and referred to other agencies, such as the could help the woman after all. [email protected]. Deadlines are Killingsworth director the 10th of each month for the following in February, The Cooperative Ministry Department of Social Services, for further “It was God’s hand,” Vradenburg said, month’s paper. board voted to discontinue its partnership help. her voice husky with unshed tears. “We with Trinity and close its satellite office. Budgeting and financial counseling are called her right back and gave her $250, Subscriptions gets Candler alumni award The newly organized Christian Assis- some of the more significant ways volun- and then we had Christmas. That is some- The Advocate is delivered to mailboxes By Jessica Connor from crisis situations; Kill- Photo by Matt Brodie via U.S. mail every month prior to the tance Bridge will open in early November teers help clients. thing I will never forget. It really touches Bishop Will Willimon will keynote the annual Eben Taylor Memorial Lecture Series Oct. 20. first Sunday of the month. Subscrip- in the same building that had housed the “It’s not just, ‘Here’s my electric bill; your heart.” ingsworth is a ministry of the tions are $15/year for the print and ATLANTA – The executive United Methodist Women. online version, and $8/year for the satellite office: a cozy brick house adja- please pay for it.’ It’s, ‘Let’s see why Carol Ward, Trinity missions chair who online-only edition. Church plans are cent to the church that has seen a stream you’re short,’” Jamieson-Ogg said. also serves on the steering committee and director of Killingsworth Candler praised Moseley’s available for as low as $1/member of people all day long two days a week Volunteers also offer spiritual and board for Christian Assistance Bridge, home for women, Columbia, service on committees and (online version) or $10/member (print is among three clergy hon- in positions that keep her version with 10+ subscribers per for the last 10 years. Christian Assistance emotional counseling, often suggesting a said the need is abundant in Blythewood. church). To start your subscription, visit Bridge is an ecumenical organization. client go talk to Jamieson-Ogg or another “People think it’s a medium- to upper- ored with the annual Candler connected to the work and www.advocatesc. org, call with credit Trinity-led, most of the initial board pastor. As she said, many times, clients middle class area, but when you get out in Distinguished Alumni Award life of The United Methodist card to 888-678-6272 or 803-786-9486, in September. Church, including serving as ext. 335, or send a check to Advocate, comprises members of Trinity, but other need far more than a tank of gas; they the community and drive around a little Moseley 4908 Colonial Drive, Columbia, SC Christian churches are involved, as well. need a church home and a counseling bit, is very evident there are people in The Rev. Diane Mose- delegate to both jurisdictional 29203. “It is designed to be a ‘stop gap’ for center. need, especially in the rural areas,” Ward ley, one of the first females conference and the World to graduate with a master of divinity Methodist Conference, and serving Photographs people who may be one step away from And some of them even wind up in the said. Photographs can be submitted to the homelessness,” said the Rev. Cathy pew. Ward said she, like many of the oth- degree from Candler, received Can- as an active member of the District newspaper for publication. High- Jamieson-Ogg, Trinity pastor. “We’re not just there to offer groceries; ers who mission to the poor and working dler’s award Sept. 27 in a ceremony at Committee on Ordained Ministry since resolution digital images are preferred. Candler School of Theology, at Emory 1979. Photographs should be in focus and While the area is known as a high- we want to give the love of God,” Jamie- poor, feel a divine calling to be compas- should have proper exposure. Color or growth suburb of Columbia, Blythewood son-Ogg said. sionate for people in need, who often University in Atlanta. Moseley’s award According to Candler, a nominator of black and white photographs are ac- is for her service to community. Moseley’s said she “has made her mark cepted. People in photographs should has its share of people who desperately The day the Advocate visited, the require help to support their families and be identified with names and ages, and need help. So many people are living assistance building was closed, but a themselves. Giving a “hand up” to them Two others also received the Candler in the field of women’s lives and made a contact person with a phone number Distinguished Alumni Award: The Rev. a place for them to leave abusive situ- should be included in the information. paycheck to paycheck, and when a catas- woman saw the doors open and pulled up through Christian Assistance Bridge is trophe happens, there is often no Plan B in her car seeking help. Volunteers said obedience to God’s directive to love our Brian Combs, who serves Haywood ations by ensuring they are motivated Street Congregation in Asheville, N.C., Accuracy Policy – no savings account, no reserve fund, no that is not uncommon. As soon as the neighbors. and have the tools to move forward in The Advocate strives to produce error- safety net. doors open, there will be people lining up “Obviously that’s our calling as Chris- where his ministry focuses on society’s life in a positive direction. She has been free news reports. When mistakes marginalized, received the award for courageous, creative, determined and occur, it is our policy to correct them “There’s a new working poor out there outside. tians to help people who are less fortunate as soon as they are brought to our – people who used to have jobs and boats Hans Vradenburg, coordinator of Chris- than we are,” Ward said. “A verse in 1 service to community. Dr. Eddie Fox, compassionate in bringing the love of Be a stronger attention. To request a correction, call and houses, and they lost those jobs and tian Assistance Bridge, said God calls us Thessalonians 3:12 kind of spoke to me: who has served for the past 23 years Christ to the ‘least of these,’ especially Jessica Connor at 888-678-6272 or as world director of World Methodist these women in crisis.” 803-786-9486, ext. 338, or email jcon- those homes,” Jamieson-Ogg said. “Here to help the lesser people among us, and as ‘May the Lord make your love increase United Methodist. [email protected]. In the event of errors we are in a wealthy suburban area, and she is older and not working anymore, it and overflow for each other and for ev- Evangelism for The World Method- Given since 2007, previous re- in advertisements, the Advocate will be ist Council, and as executive director cipients of the Candler Distinguished responsible only for the space occu- people are homeless, living in cars, and is time for her to give back to the commu- eryone else, just as ours does for you.’ It Subscribe to of the World Methodist Evangelism Alumni Awards include Dr. Tim Mc- Scan this pied by the actual error. The publisher their kids go to Blythewood High with the nity by working with this ministry. just speaks to our mission as Christians to QR code assumes no financial responsibility for kids from the country club.” “A lot of good things happen in that care for each other and try to take care of Institute located at Emory, received the Clendon, the Rev. John Culp, Bishop L. with your omissions. the Advocate. smartphone! When Christian Assistance Bridge little brick house,” Vradenburg said, people’s needs.” award for service to church. Bevel Jones III, Bishop Robert C. Mor- “It is an honor to be highlighted as gan, Rev. Gilbert L. Schroerlucke, Dr. Back Issues opens in November, it will mimic the noting that getting the chance to counsel Trinity will receive some surplus funds Name: The Advocate maintains copies of back same schedule of the Cooperative Min- people and help them better themselves available to hunger ministries in districts one of Candler School of Theology’s Herchel H. Sheets, William S. Barnes, issues for sale for up to one year, as distinguished alumni, as so many of Bishop J. Lloyd Knox, Rev. Kenneth Mailing Address: long as the supply lasts. When request- istry satellite: Mondays and Thursdays is a blessing for her. “There’s so much after the conference’s successful Stop ing by mail, back copies are $2 each, our alumni are making an impact on the E. Marcus, Cecil McFarland, Carolyn from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Clients are welcome need out there, and it makes me feel like Hunger Now at Annual Conference in City State ZIP to cover postage and handling. To first-come, first-served, with no appoint- a million dollars when I close the doors June. Beyond that, they are seeking grants world in so many ways,” said Megan Morris, Kenneth L. Samuel, Susan T. research or review articles published Lineberry, Candler’s director of alumni Henry-Crowe, Ginger Rogers Kaney, E-mail address: more than one year ago, bound copies ment, and the ministry serves people in at the end of the day; they help me and I and donations to be self-sustainable. As Church Name: of the newspaper are available for Bythewood (zip codes 29016, 29229 and help them.” Vradenburg said, “It all depends on the relations. “To be recognized truly shows Eugene M. Zimmerman and Nelia T. Pastor: District: review at the Advocate office, Wofford the great impact these alumni have on 29130). About 20 trained volunteers from Vradenburg has volunteered for the money. If we don’t have the money, we Kimbrough. This is a: College in Spartanburg and the South their churches and their communities.” To nominate an alumna or alumnus Caroliniana Library in Columbia. Trinity and other churches screen clients, ministry in various ways since the begin- can’t do anything to help them.” New Subscription ($15) Please make checks payable to: The Advocate go over budgeting and expenses and do ning, and time and again she has seen For more about Christian Assistance Moseley, Candler class of 1973, has for next year’s Candler Distinguished One-Year Renewal ($13) and return to: 4908 Colonial Dr., Suite 207, Two-Year Subscription ($24) Columbia, SC 29203-6070 what they can to help people in need. the hand of God in dire situations: abuse, Bridge, or to volunteer or donate, call served for 40 years as executive direc- Alumni Awards, visit http://candler. Clients have to be in a state of crisis to illness, disability, unemployment and 803-786-1903, or visit www.christian tor of Killingsworth, a community emory.edu/alumni/stay-connected/ get financial help from Christian Assis- worse. She remembers one woman with assistancebridge.com. residence for women who are emerging distinguished-alumni-nomination.cfm. Subscribe online: www.advocatesc.org • $15/year print and online; $8/year online only Page 4, October 2013 Advocate Advocate VIEWPOINTS Page 5, October 2013 Viewpoints Editorial Bishop’s Corner by Jessica Connor by Bishop Jonathan Holston Fear factor Being neighborly ear is a powerful motivator. It can be used for good purposes by kick- “But he wanted to justify himself, so he asked Jesus, ‘And who is my neigh- ing in survival mechanisms (a healthy fear of lightning might keep you bor?’” Luke 10:29 (NRSV) safely inside during dangerous storms, while a fear of getting burned keeps your hand out of the flame). n anonymous writer penned these words titled “A Collection of At- FBut fear can also be used in negative, harmful ways, resulting in the oppres- titudes,” referencing the parable of the Good Samaritan, saying: “To sion, alienation and victimization of other human beings usually because they are the expert in the law, the wounded man was a subject to discuss; To Lake Junaluska Signature Series “different.” the robbers, the wounded man was someone to use and exploit; To Recently, outcry over possible new laws restricting the presence of homeless Athe religious men, the wounded man was a problem to be avoided; To the inn- to feature Rachel Held Evans people in Columbia prompted much dialogue about fear and our reaction to it. keeper, the wounded man was a customer to serve for a fee; To the Samaritan, the LAKE JUNALUSKA, N.C. – Clergy, youth leaders, young adults and all fans of Some admitted they feared interacting with the homeless because they seemed wounded man was a human being worth being cared for and loved; To Jesus, all Rachel Held Evans’ work are invited to a day apart at Lake Junaluska Feb. 22, scary and asked for money, imploring the city council to ban homeless people of them and all of us were worth dying for.” 2014. This event, “Knowing God through the Bible Requires Community,” is part from certain areas in the city. In essence: they’re afraid of the Other, so the Other Confronting the needs of others often brings out various attitudes in us. Jesus of the Lake Junaluska Signature Series. must go. used the parable of the Good Samaritan to make clear what attitude was accept- Evans will talk about how the Bible is meant to be a conversation starter, not Who are we to demand such things? able to him. We learn that our neighbor is anyone in need, and love means acting a conversation ender. By making reference to her latest book, “A Year of Biblical Fear of the Other causes otherwise rational and kind human beings to behave to meet a person’s need. Wherever you live, there are needy people close by. Womanhood: How a Liberated Woman Found Herself Sitting on Her Roof, Cover- in atrocious ways. Think Romans feeding Christians to the lions. Think the They are men and women, boys and girls, single and married, as well as those ing Her Head, and Calling Her Husband ‘Master,’” she will encourage discussion Holocaust, where 6 million Jewish men, women and children were slaughtered in who are single-again. They represent all ages, ethnicities and nationalities. They about how the Bible brings us together as a community of believers. death camps and gas chambers. are our family, friends and neighbors. The Wayne Kerr Band will lead in worship and music throughout the morning. In the U.S., Fear and its dirty twin brother, Hate, are responsible for lynching On Sunday, Oct. 13, we will celebrate the “Children’s Sabbath” across our For more information, visit www.lakejunaluska.com/signature-series. African Americans, raping women for having the “audacity” to use their voice, S.C. Conference. The Conference Task Force for the Campaign for Children in burning crosses and engaging in other strong-arm tactics to drive people from Poverty is giving leadership to this effort to “dream God-size dreams” and make neighborhoods and towns, painting swastikas on synagogues, bullying and beat- a difference in the lives of children. The Children’s Sabbath is a celebration of Letters to the Editor ing up gays and lesbians – the list goes on and on and on. hope that is committed to educating congregations about the state of today’s chil- Financial Fear also plays a role in certain political battles: not only laws governing the dren and families in our communities. Enforce realistic That would amount to an enormous ciples (Matthew 28:16-20) and to have homeless but also issues like immigration reform. Time and again, I hear people As chairperson of our conference task force, Martha Thompson is giving tre- initiative helps immigration laws additional expenditure by the federal more children in the church (Matthew say we need to crack down on border patrol because “what will we do if all mendous leadership to our effort. She has reminded us all that “it only takes one government. This is money we do not 19:14). ‘those people’ from over there come and take our jobs away?” They genuinely individual who is committed to a cause to unite with others and ministry begins.” In response to The United Methodist local church Church’s stance on immigration reform, have and will either have to borrow or However, this growth does not hap- fear for their own well-being, and they think they will be protected by passing It is a reminder that we all have the capacity to transform the world of children obtain through further increased taxa- pen unless the adults and leadership of harsher laws to keep others out of this nation. living in poverty. I offer another view. members My immigrant ancestor came to tion of the citizenry. the church are actively growing in their I say it’s time we stopped looking at our differences and started seeing our Please know that I need your participation to shape the lives of children and NASHVILLE, Tenn. – A new pro- the in 1740 from Ger- While we have compassion for those relationships with God. It is so easy and similarities. their future. When we address the issues of poverty, we are being good neighbors. gram, UMCmarket.org, will allow many. He did so legally, and we have wanting a better life, we also must be comfortable to settle into an existing, Consider it from God’s perspective. To Him, how am I worth any more or less Recently, I found an illustration that speaks powerfully to that capacity to members of The United Methodist the documents to prove that fact. The realistic. Legal immigration integrates stagnant or even a “once upon a time” than any other sinner on this planet? Aren’t I just skin and bones walking on this make a difference. Taken from the tomb of a bishop in Westminster Abbey, it Church the opportunity to shop rule of law is essential to the free and new citizens in an orderly manner, and faith. We often find ourselves looking earth, trying my best to get by and do God’s will and spread His word, just like simply says: online at some of their favorite prosperous society. When lawlessness is when those laws are enforced, immi- wistfully back to “what has been” when everybody else? At my core, how am I any different to Him from someone born When I was young and free and my imagination had no limits, I places while generating a donation allowed, the stability of a country suf- grants can be assimilated to the benefit we should be looking forward to the half a world away? What difference does it make that I just happened to be born dreamed of changing the world. to their local church. fers greatly. God gave His people laws of all who live in the United States. possibilities of the future. (Disclaimer: female with light skin? What difference does it make that I speak English? As I grew older and wiser and realized the world would not change, I UMCmarket, an online shop- to follow and instituted government Wanda M. Benton, member only you and God know if this applies See “Connor,” Page 5 shortened my sights somewhat and decided to change only my country; ping community designed espe- to protect the people from those who Vox Memorial UMC, Johnsonville to you.) but it too seemed immovable. cially for members of the UMC, would break the law. As United Methodists, we are called As I grew into my twilight years, I settled on changing only my family provides a portal to access popu- By allowing millions of law-breakers Is the church growing? to receive the forgiveness Jesus offers and those closest to me, but alas they would have none of it. lar retailers. Members can shop to be absorbed into our country, the Churches like to talk about church us. Then, we are called to move for- Now as I lay on my deathbed and I suddenly realize online whenever they want. With government would be sending a clear growth, new members and more chil- ward, to grow in grace and to be trans- That if I had only changed myself first, then by example I could per- each purchase, a percentage of the message that our laws concerning legal dren with excitement and grand hopes formed by the same power of the Holy haps have changed my family, and from their inspiration and encourage- sale can go to the church the shop- immigration are worthless. A person for the future. This is wonderful, but Spirit that raised Jesus from the dead. 4908 Colonial Drive, Suite 207, Columbia, SC 29203 ment to me, I would have been better able to help my country and from When our lives are saturated with per chooses. 888-678-6272 or 803-786-9486 could then presume other laws can be growth requires that people outside of there I would have been better able to change the world. Membership is free and it takes [email protected] | www.advocatesc.org ignored, as well. the church respond to what is already the love of Jesus and when we share Friends, the opportunity to make a difference is before us. Let us celebrate the less than a minute to join. Our country currently is on the verge going on IN the church. that love, people outside of the church Publisher Children’s Sabbath on Oct. 13 and change the world of children in poverty. For UMCmarket, GFCA has The S.C. United Methodist Advocate Trustees of collapse financially due to overbur- People are not attracted to beautiful will see the genuineness of what we The Rev. Angela Nelson, chairperson; the Rev. Audrey Boozer, vice chairperson; partnered with Zebraplace and dened social programs. Adding mil- buildings. And so often their excuse have and will join us in our walk of the the Rev. Carleathea Benson, secretary; Carmen Faulkner, treasurer; Christian faith. Foundation Automation LLC. Dyron V. Anderson; the Rev. David Caughman; Bill Click; Deena Flessas; the Rev. Dean Lollis; lions of people to this burden would be for not coming to church is that the Correction Zebraplace is a micro-donations the Rev. Jerry Gadsden; Skyler Nimmons; Dr. Ralph Ostrom; Dr. Phillip Stone; fiscal suicide for the nation. The current church is just a dried-up museum for People are attracted to the real thing, Diane Wilson; and the Rev. William Wrighten; Rev. Kathy James, ex officio site, and Foundation Automa- immigration bill allows those who are hypocrites who say one thing and live and that reality is Jesus living and In “Overtreated?” by the Rev. Gene Norris (September Advocate), the column working in our lives. tion LLC helps organizations use Editors emeritus currently illegal in the United States another. People are looking for some- contained two errors. In the eighth paragraph, the word “then” should have been micro-donations and develop new Maryneal Jones, Willie S. Teague, Allison Askins, Karl F. Davie Burgdorf, Emily L. Cooper to obtain legal status. Legal status is thing real that will change their lives, Rev. J. Wayne Smith Jr., pastor “than,” and in the ninth paragraph, it should have read that veteran hospitals income streams. not citizenship immediately, but the fill the emptiness they are feeling and Brookland UMC, Columbia, and Staff “have come a long way since I was in the ministry” (not military). Visit www.UMCMarket.org. Editor: Jessica Connor, [email protected] bill would allow those individuals to give them hope for the future. Rev. Judy C. Hames, pastor Assistant Editor: Allison K. Trussell, [email protected] We apologize for these errors and, as always, strive to set the record straight. It is a wonderful goal to make dis- St. Paul UMC, Saluda Editorial Intern: Carrie Townsend qualify for the earned income credit.

Our Mission To communicate the message of the United Methodist Church and to connect United Methodists by independently reporting news, engaging readers and providing a forum for dialogue. Letters Policy CONNOR: Let’s get rid of our fear of difference We welcome letters to the editor. We urge brevity, as succinct writing often pro- Subscriptions duces clarity. Letters should be no more than 300 words. All letters are subject From Page 4 homeless woman on the street corner, or the prosti- So as the City of Columbia takes a look at its The individual subscription rate is $15/year for the print and online version ($13 for renewals) and $8/year for the online-only edition. To subscribe or for information about discounted church plan to editing as needed to meet standards of grammar, space and interest. We will tute, or the addict, or the orphan, or the poor widow, homeless regulations and considers restrictions such rates, call 888-678-6272, e-mail [email protected] or visit www.advocatesc.org. not publish anonymous letters, letters praising or criticizing businesses by name, Does any of this even matter in the final analysis? or the just-off-the-bus immigrant who doesn’t know as where a person can or cannot “loiter,” I hope we as endorsements of or letters from political candidates, fundraising appeals, or letters The S.C. United Methodist Advocate (ISSN 1078-8166) continues the Southern Christian Advocate, authorized by the General We hold so tightly to our identity as Americans, a smidge of English – just as much as the person who Christians can stand in solidarity with our homeless Conference of 1836. Publication began Annual Conference-July 24, 1837. The paper is published monthly by the S.C. United containing inappropriate language or personal attacks. 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Deadlines are energy wrapped up in protecting that identity. Conse- much right to walk around on God’s earth in this state It’s time to get rid of fear of difference and start October 2013 • Volume 177 • No. 10 the 10th of each month. quently, we forget sometimes that our neighbor is the and in this nation as I do. embracing our similarities, in the name of God. Page 6, October 2013 Children in Poverty Advocate Advocate Children in Poverty Page 7, October 2013 Fighting poverty through friendship Children’s Sabbath Children in Poverty Greenville District launches new Methodist Family Partnering with Families initiative A How-To Guide by Bishop Kenneth L. Carder (retired) By Jessica Connor “What many of us don’t know is that many families in our community his month, faith communities across the nation – including United Meth- Matthew 25 as invitation and promise GREENVILLE – When it comes to struggle to keep the rent paid and food odist churches in South Carolina – will celebrate the annual Children’s helping “the least of these,” United on the table, to have decent clothes for Sabbath Celebration. Editor’s note: As Carder is the goats” were surprised by the judgment Methodists rally to help, collecting the kids or even a stable place to stay,” Children’s Sabbath is a way churches, synagogues, mosques and other primary author of the foundation docu- pronounced. Those invited to “Come, canned goods and coats, stuffing back- Hill said. “More and more of our fami- Tcommunities can celebrate children as sacred gifts of God and renew and live out ment of the Episcopal Initiative on Chil- inherit the kingdom prepared for you packs, adopting Christmas families, lies are struggling with poverty and all their moral responsibility to care, protect and advocate for all children. Sponsored dren and Poverty, the S.C. Task Force from the foundation of the world” were dropping pennies in buckets – the list its effects.” by the Children’s Defense Fund, the UMC and approximately 200 other denomina- on the Pan-Methodist Campaign for shocked at the generosity of the invita- goes on. “When I think about the impact that tions embrace Children’s Sabbath, and the S.C. Conference of the UMC is encour- Children in Poverty asked him to write tion. What had they done to deserve But while the help is generous, it’s this partnership can have, it gives me aging local churches across the state to hold their own Children’s Sabbath. a series of articles on the biblical and such an everlasting blessing? often abstract and disconnected; many goose bumps,” Matthews said. “We While Children’s Sabbath is typically celebrated the second Sunday in October theological foundation for engagement The invitation is to participate in of those who help neighbors in poverty want to shower these children and fami- (this year, Oct. 13), the Rev. Kathy James, conference director of Connectional in ministry with children and the poor. God’s redemption by feeding the hun- never actually lay eyes on the people lies not just with things, but with the Ministries, said any Sunday is acceptable. This is next in a series. gry, giving drink to the thirsty, cloth- they help. They put items in a bin or love of God through Christ in real and “In South Carolina, we want churches to focus on the needs of children in your ing the naked, welcoming the stranger buy presents for a collection box; often, tangible ways. This is something that own communities for Children’s Sabbath,” James said. “It’s not just a worship woman approached me after and visiting the sick and the prisoners. no other interaction occurs. churches of all sizes can do. If every service, but rather asking, ‘How do we engage our congregation to meet the needs a sermon in which I preached By sharing friendship and aid with “There’s this gap,” said the Rev. church in the Greenville district will of children in our own communities?’” from the text, “Truly I tell the poor, we join in communion with Jerry Hill, pastor of Dunean United partner with just one family in poverty, James said a Children’s Sabbath can look very different in each church. It might you, just as you did to one Christ. The invitation is to participate Methodist Church, Greenville, and min- Photo by Matt Brodie then that will make a real difference. involve interviewing a school principal, showing a video in church about local Aof the least of these who are members in the reign of God brought near in ister of social ministries and mission The Greenville District is starting a new initiative to fight poverty by partnering each church And isn’t that what it is all about?” of my family, you did to me” (Matthew Jesus Christ through acts of mercy and with a local family in need; 26 percent of S.C. children are said to live in poverty. needs, holding a panel discussion after church or organizing a community dia- outreach at Buncombe Street UMC. The Greenville District will kick logue. 25:40). compassion. Churches are often nestled in the sub- Pan-Methodist Campaign for Children diminish what is going on in that way, off the Methodist Family Partnering Even if a church doesn’t have any children in the congregation, it still should As she stared sternly into my eyes, The promise is to twofold. First, urbs, he said, and members can spend in Poverty, the District Connectional but we want to deepen that – not just With Families Initiative with an event hold a Children’s Sabbath, because “all the children in our community are our she said, “I’ve heard you speak several joining God’s redemptive action results their lives giving and giving without Ministries Outreach and Advocacy giving assistance but building a rela- Oct. 26 at Buncombe Street UMC. The children,” James said. times on ministry with the poor and I in sharing in “his glory,” the final vic- ever becoming friends with – let alone committees crafted the initiative, and tionship.” kickoff will do three things: celebrate always go away feeling terrible. Today tory when the reign of God is complete. meeting – a poor person. the rest of the Greenville District signed Matthews said the word “partner” the ministries already helping children is no exception. I feel overwhelmed Furthermore, we are assured of the The Greenville District wants to on to help. The Rev. Mary Teasley, is important because the families in poverty, educate congregations about and condemned for being able to do so presence and companionship of the change that. Greenville District superintendent, said are working, too. “It’s not just us as the realities of children living in pov- little.” Crucified and Risen Christ. Matthew The Greenville District is embracing district churches were inspired by their a church helping them, but working erty and advocate with action. Then she raised a question that kept concludes his Gospel with Christ’s a new mission effort to truly connect success with Stop Hunger Now meal- alongside them,” she said. “It’s going to be a process where The S.C. me awake the night after service. Walk- promise: “I will be with you even to the with neighbors in poverty. Called the we’re all going to learn,” Hill said. Conference is ing away with her shoulders stooped close of the age.” packing efforts the past year, as well as Like the homeless mother with four encouraging Methodist Family Partnering With Fam- similar outreach ministries, and wanted children Hill has recently befriended. Held from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., churches to as though carrying a heavy burden, she Ministry and friendship with the ilies Initiative, the project aims to focus to take things to the next level. “She’s smart – she used the word the kickoff will feature Bishop Ken hold a Chil- mused, “Where is grace?” poor and imprisoned can be demanding, local UMCs on the needs of families in “We felt it was time to move from ‘audacity’ in conversation with me Carder, who will challenge and inspire dren’s Sabbath. I couldn’t get her demeanor or part- frustrating, disappointing and exhaust- poverty, seeking to inspire, educate and attendees to get involved with families It is typically ing question out of my mind. It pushed ing. It sometimes feels like a burden. focusing on acts of mercy to addressing – and said, ‘I have goals, I want to start the second structure church ministry with, not to, issues of justice, especially the systemic a business, but I’ve just been surviv- in poverty. The first 80 registrants will Sunday of me deeper into Matthew 25 and what is However, we are not alone! We have these families to be more effective. A issue of poverty,” Teasley said. “To ing these last seven years,’” Hill said, participate in the Rev. Beth Temple- October (Oct. called “The Parable of the Judgment” or the of the presence of the One kickoff event will be Oct. 26. think of channeling those resources noting his talk with the mother was ton’s poverty simulation. Workshops on 13). Photo by Matt Brodie “The Sheep and the Goats.” Admittedly, in whose “glory” we shall ultimately The goal is for each of the 70 UMCs and that energy into our communities, enlightening. “We have to focus people Contextualizing Your Family, Connect- I had read and preached the parable as share. in the Greenville District to form a rela- transforming the world one family at on relationships and involvement rather ing with Your Family and How To Be Children’s Sabbath: Helping to end command and judgment. Care for the spoke of “covered com- tionship with a family in poverty. a time, is a little scary, but we feel it is than giving stuff. Sometimes stuff is An Ally will run concurrently. Mat- hopelessness, despair poor or face the verdict “depart from mands.” He contended that every com- For it is in those relationships that the next faithful step that God is calling definitely needed; I gave a food card thews said Greenville District UMCs Children’s Sabbath is a specific Sunday set apart to examine the issues and me” at the final judgment! mand in the Bible is covered by a prom- real good can be done, organizers of us to take.” and gas card to this mom. But we’re go- will celebrate these church and family challenges faced by all children, not just children in our specific congregations in Indeed, judgment is an unavoidable ise of grace, the presence and power the initiative said. On the surface, these The Rev. Christine Matthews, pastor ing to get back together with this mom partnerships April 26 for the Greenville a worship environment, asking for God’s help and direction in our responses to message of the parable. Neglect of the of God to fulfill the command. The families represent alarming statistics. of Salem UMC, is leading the initia- and figure out the next step.” District Great Day of Service, which those challenges. poor and those in prison has conse- “command” to minister with the poor is But up close and personal, they are real tive along with Hill and others with the That next step is particularly im- will reflect a spring carnival theme. This year, the focus is on children in poverty. Poverty is not just being finan- quences because God has chosen to so covered by the promise of the presence people who need more than money and Outreach and Advocacy committees. portant given the number of families “The need is great, the call from cially poor. Poverty is a lack of resources of all kinds, including material resources, closely identify with the vulnerable and of Christ through the Holy Spirit as we clothing, Hill said. They also need men- “Part of the partnership is assisting who live in poverty in South Carolina. Scripture to be in ministry with chil- but also including a lack of power, a lack of dignity, a lack of hope and a lack of a pushed aside that what is done to them anticipate sharing in his glory. sense of caring, Christ-like love in their community. toring, alliance, friendship and mutual them when assistance is needed. But it’s According to the Kids Count Data Cen- dren and with the poor is clear, and our is done to God. However, God’s judg- Matthew 25, therefore, is all about We as the church must respond to the call to assist those in poverty. Scripture goal-setting. They need the relationship response is ambitious; how can we not ment is always inseparable from God’s grace! not just that. It goes deeper than that,” ter, 26 percent of S.C. children live in calls us to it. Reason calls us to it. Tradition and experience call us to it, as well. that comes from a church in true part- Matthews said. “We do have a lot of poverty, 13 percent live in high poverty be involved?” Matthews asked. Children’s Sabbath is not meant to be a stopping place, but instead a starting love and compassion. nership with them. churches doing wonderful ministries areas, and 34 percent live in homes To register for the kickoff Oct. 26, place to open up discussions, awareness and action. What if we read Matthew 25 as Carder is a retired United Method- Stemming from the S.C. Confer- like food pantries and backpack pro- where the parents lack consistent full- visit greenville.umcsc.org or call the There are many good resources to use for worship on this Sunday. Children can invitation and promise rather than ist bishop now living in South Carolina ence’s participation in the global grams, and I don’t in any way want to time employment. district office at 864-233-3611. and should be included in the service. They can be ushers, greeters, read Scrip- command and judgment? The empha- and a member of the S.C. Task Force ture or a responsive reading, help with the offering or Communion, or however is sis of the parable lies in its unexpected on the Pan-Methodist Campaign for appropriate for your service style. The service is not necessarily about the children conclusion. Both “the sheep” and “the Children in Poverty. specific to your congregation. However, because all members of the household of S.C. pushes forward on Pan-Methodist Campaign for Children in Poverty God should be concerned about these issues, it is vital that we include the children upon whom we have the greatest influence. Start them on the path of remember- By Jessica Connor Osborne led discussion about the conference push for Is your church helping a school ing those in poverty, and perhaps one day they will be trailblazers along that path. a Children’s Sabbath celebration (see article, page 7). in the Corridor of Shame Hope? Before, between and after services are wonderful times to showcase both what South Carolina children-in-poverty advocates are Dr. Carolyn Prince, of the Children’s Defense Fund your church is doing to assist those children in poverty, but also a great time to The Advocate seeks information from local churches about whether moving ahead in a conference-wide push to help al- discussed how to regain people’s compassion for poor whet the appetite of your congregation with new possibilities. Set up tables, pro- they are actively in partnership to help any of the schools in the Corridor of leviate the global problem on a state level. children as a way to mobilize advocacy. vide information and direct ways to sign up to be involved. Shame, which is now being renamed the Corridor of Hope. If any UMCs are A task force for the S.C. initiative for the Pan- The Rev. John Culp, part of the task force, said May God richly bless our efforts to end the hopelessness and despair of chil- partnering with these schools to supply classroom needs, teacher supplies, Methodist Campaign for Children in Poverty met churches need to become more intimate with poverty dren in poverty. repairs, library books, etc., please let us know. Also tell us whether things Sept. 19 to discuss the upcoming Children’s Sabbath before we can expect real change. – By Anne Shelton, Child in Poverty Committee, have improved, worsened or stayed the same. Email [email protected]. (Oct. 13), advocacy, strategic long-range planning “You’ve got to see it, taste it, feel it,” Culp said. “If District Connectional Ministries, Greenville – and turning the state’s Corridor of Shame into what you don’t see it, taste it or feel it, you’re not going to Bishop Ken Carder has dubbed the Corridor of do nothing about it.” Want to learn more? Hope. Dr. Arlene Andrews agreed: “You’ve got to go A full Children’s Sabbath resource manual developed by the Children’s De- The Corridor of Shame is the stretch of Interstate where the dirty stuff is.” fense Fund is available online for people to use. Visit www.childrensdefense. 95 that is home to impoverished families and a school The members spent the rest of the day strategizing org/programs-campaigns/faith-based-action/childrens-sabbaths, then scroll system that struggles to provide the state-required about next steps in the campaign. down and click on “Download This Year’s Resource Manual.” Designed by Matt Brodie The manual, which is free, requires you provide your name, email and “minimally adequate” education to its children, as Future S.C. efforts of the Pan-Methodist Campaign This map shows what Bishop Ken Carder hopes will be- documented in the 2006 film “Corridor of Shame.” for Children in Poverty will be showcased in the Ad- come a Corridor of Hope in S.C. rather than the Corridor some other information. Once you provide the information, you have access Advocates did a community puzzle as their de- vocate, along with monthly columns and other news. of Shame: the stretch of Interstate 95 that is home to poor to a wealth of materials, including ideas for planning a Children’s Sabbath, a devotional guide, action ideas, Christian (as well as Jewish and other faith) votional, using words to express key concepts about For more information, visit www.panmethodistcam- families and a school system that struggles to provide the state-required “minimally adequate” education to children, resources, a promotion guide, frequently asked questions and more. ministry with children in poverty. The Rev. Jean paignforchildren.org. as documented in the 2006 film “Corridor of Shame.” Page 8, October 2013 Features Advocate Advocate Viewpoints Page 9, October 2013 Becoming More Vile Connectional Conversation

by the Rev. Jonathan Tompkins by the Rev. Kathy James Apocalyptic listening Knowing what to do differently e’re entering the scari- “The Revelator” by Angels and Air- recently saw a beautiful bride’s pressure only intensifies once the first est part of fall – yes, waves – The end is not necessarily the picture on Facebook, and I began grandchild appears on the scene! stewardship season is end: “As you pray for the end to come, thinking about all of the changes a Many committed Christians have a on us, but I’m actually all you’ll get is a marching line. As you newlywed couple must navigate in sense that we are doing the same thing Wreferring to Halloween. wait for the hounds of hell, you’ll be Itheir first year of marriage. the same way in the church hoping to So as we approach our Trunk or in for a big surprise. ‘Cause the end, it Particularly around holidays, there get different results than we currently Treats and Harvest Festivals, why will never come, but we’re in for a few is a sorting out of which old traditions have. We know that things aren’t work- The Rev. Lee Roper speaks to members of the Outreach area. not accompany this time of year with hard times. And we’ll get knocked up to keep (especially when some of those ing as we wish. The challenge is in some songs about a scary subject – the down and done, but the truth is were traditions between two families happen deciding what to do differently. Apocalypse! Yes, nothing says “family still alive.” at the same time) and what new tradi- In families and in churches, tradi- friendly entertainment” like bowls of “Beautiful Dawn” by The Wailin’ tions to begin. Families, like churches, tions shape identity. Resistance to wrath, beasts with 10 horns and Baby- Jennys – Eschatological hope for new are rooted in traditions and rituals that change often arises because the pro- lon’s whore. day dawning: “Take me to the break- give shape and meaning to life. posed change threatens the commu- But if we take the word “apoca- ing of a beautiful dawn, take me to the A popular definition of insanity is nity’s sense of identity. Taking time to lypse” away from some modern corrup- place where we come from, take me “doing the same thing the same way reflect on what is still true about who tions and bring it back to its original to the end so I can see the start, there’s and expecting different results.” I have we are in the midst of change can help. meaning in Greek, we see that it means only one way to mend a broken heart.” found this definition to be helpful when I do not believe that we as people a “revealing,” (hence, “Revelation” “After the Storm” by Mumford & it comes to thinking about my life when of faith (or in our families, for that – leave the “s” off, please), a peering Sons – Calls to mind the dreams of the I am stuck. What is it that I keep doing matter) need to hold onto any sense of behind the curtain of this world into the prophets and the final scene of Revela- the same way that is not working? As identity that is related to the definition heavenly realm. tion: “There will come a time, you’ll an individual I can choose to experi- of insanity. We do need to look around Apocalyptic literature in the Bible see, with no more tears, and love will ment with making changes in my life in and recognize when what we are doing doesn’t have to be so scary when we not break your heart but dismiss your order to yield the result I am seeking. is no longer working. understand the genre and the meaning fears, get over your hill and see what It gets a little bit harder when the Developing a clear understanding of Connectional Ministries Director the Rev. Kathy James welcomes people Photos by Jessica Connor behind it – God wins in the end; God you’ll find there, with grace in your changes I seek to make in my individ- congregational identity that is rooted in Advocacy Convener the Rev. Amiri Hooker speaks with members of his ministry area. to the Conference Connectional Ministries meeting. will come back to right the wrongs, heart and flowers in your hair.” ual life have an impact on my family. the gospel of Jesus can perhaps help a wipe the tears and defeat Death once “Reggabilly Hill” by Jimmy Buf- Knowing what to change and what to congregation separate the traditions and Connectional Ministries members gather to help and for all. fett – Seems even the old ex-altarboy- keep the same requires reflection and practices that are key in shaping that So here’s an Apocalypse Mix that of- turned-pirate has some apocalyptic discernment. Newlyweds often feel identity from those that may actually fers several different takes and perspec- visions as he looks (way) past 40: “The pressured to keep everything the same be keeping a congregation from fully Christ connect communities through church tives on “The End of the World as We ones who had it all and the ones who’d with their families of origin, while at being formed as God intended. By Jessica Connor ference 2013 from a motion by the Rev. John Culp, Know It:” made a name, were walkin’ side by side the same time trying to forge new tradi- James is director of Connectional the conference was to make an additional special gift “The Man Comes Around” by with the naked and the lame. Hungry tions for their new family unit. And that Ministries for the S.C. Conference. COLUMBIA – With a pledge to embrace the four from its Emerging Ministries Fund and give each of Johnny Cash – A pretty literal take on little children ate until they had their Cs – Christ Connecting Communities through Church the ASMs $5,000 in addition to the grant funds they Revelation, but we would expect noth- fill, then they tumbled through the clo- – members of Conference Connectional Ministries receive from the Conference Board of Global Minis- ing less from the Man in Black. ver down on Reggabilly Hill.” gathered Aug. 24 for their twice-yearly business meet- tries. However, the motion specified 13 ASMs would “Miserabile Visu (Ex Malo Bonum)” “Thin Blue Flame” by Josh Ritter ing and sharing time. get funding, but there are 14 ASMs; Culp accidentally by Anberlin – Another fairly literal take – An apocalyptic song of epic propor- Held at Virginia Wingard Memorial United Meth- omitted Coastal Samaritan Counseling Center. The on Revelation, but focusing more on tions, the first five minutes are devoted odist Church, Columbia, the group of representa- CCM executive committee decided all 14 should get the good God will work from the bad: to what’s wrong with the world, culmi- tives from all 12 districts and four ALDO ministry the $5,000 funding each. “What tragedy may bring, whatever nating in the cry “And this whole thing areas (Advocacy, Lay Leadership, Discipleship and Also in the business session, the conference Ethnic may fall, at the end of the world, you’ll is headed for a terrible wreck, and like Outreach) met in committee sessions. Within those Local Church Concerns Committee announced the still belong.” good tragedy that’s what we expect.” groups, they discussed issues, activities and concerns availability of grants and scholarship funds for racial- “The Blues” by Switchfoot – Ask- But then five more minutes of hope, across the state, and brainstormed how to improve ethnic small membership churches to assist ethnic ing “is there any honest song to sing where “heaven’s so big there ain’t their efforts to be connectional at the local level. local churches to “Make Disciples of Jesus Christ for besides these blues?,” hoping that “the no need to look up,” and “all wrongs The afternoon brought a business session, with the Transformation of the World,” beginning in their world caves in” and the “sky falls down forgotten and all vengeance made right, election of the Rev. Calvin Washington as new chair local church and local community. The grant applica- and the hungry and poor and deserted the suffering verbs put to sleep in the of the S.C. Board of Global Ministries following the tion deadline has been extended until Sept. 27. are found.” night.” resignation of the Rev. Michael Henderson. The group also discussed a need for churches to “John Saw that Number” by Neko (I could devote a whole article to the The CCM executive committee reported its approv- be involved with Children’s Sabbath celebrations and Case – A foot-stomping, tambourine- lyrical brilliance of this song—it’s as al to fund the conference’s 14 Advance Special Min- services. shaking rollick about John’s revela- if Ray Bradbury re-wrote Revelation istries $5,000 apiece from the Emerging Ministries The next meetings of the CCM are set for Feb. 8 “I’ve stopped saying ‘Christ is the head of my life.’ Christ is tory vision: “God told the angel ‘Go along with Bob Dylan). Fund. Thanks to a vote on the floor at Annual Con- and Aug. 23, 2014 (locations to be announced). my life,” Connectional Ministries Convener Cynthia Williams see about John.’ So he flew from the Happy Apocalyptic listening! told the crowd. pit, with the moon ‘round his waist, Tompkins pastors Travelers Rest gathered wind in his fists, and the stars UMC, Travelers Rest. View his blog at ‘round his wrists, cryin’ ‘Holy, holy to http://becomingmorevile.wordpress. 500 ‘mighty men’ the Lord.” com. Your help is needed as Big goals set for UMM retreat Feb. 28-March 2 a volunteer or member. Contact us today. By Jessica Connor Inspired, Lightsey and his team are for the coming year only. This time, trying, in planning this retreat, to think www.alstonwilkessociety.org reaching out to local churches and they’re planning things quite differently how they are going to keep men en- (803) 799-2490 Organizers of the S.C. United thinking big so they can accomplish – thinking with the end in mind. gaged over the next two years. The 3519 Medical Drive, Methodist Men are setting some huge that goal. “What will men’s ministry look like long-range vision should make for a Rebuilding Lives for a Safer Community Columbia, SC 29203 goals in tandem with Bishop Jonathan Set for Feb. 28-March 2 at Spring- at the end of the quadrennium?” Light- more meaningful and well-attended Holston: 500 men at the UMM spiritual maid Beach Resort, Myrtle Beach, the sey asked. “We go to retreats and all event, he said. retreat next February. UMM Spiritual Retreat is expected to these things and have that mountaintop Registration and more information “As a formerly homeless veteran, I came to the Alston Wilkes Herman Lightsey and other re- reflect a “mighty men of God” theme. experience, and then we come back and about the retreat and other UMM news Society for help. During that time I received intensive case treat organizers are taking seriously “We’re still playing around with it dissipates. We need to have a logical will be coming in future Advocate edi- management and was surrounded and supported by other veterans. Holston’s challenge to them at their last the exact name, but we like the idea of next step, something to keep people tions. Not only was I able to graduate from the program and become retreat to live into a God-sized vision. ‘mighty men,’” Lightsey said. engaged, but we don’t do that. We know For more information about the self sufficient, but I now serve as the Director of the same Alston Holston told the UMM he hoped he Lightsey said usually when they we should, but we don’t.” UMM in S.C., visit www.ummsc. Wilkes Society Veterans Services program that offered me a second would see 500 men at the next retreat. plan retreats, they think about the event Lightsey said he and his team are org. chance.” – Clinton Davis Page 10, October 2013 Viewpoints Advocate Advocate Viewpoints Page 11, October 2013 Guest Commentary Guest Commentary Bishop Holston Guest Commentary participates in Dr. C.D. “Grinand” Barrett by the Rev. Tony Rowell Dr. Frederick N. Treaster Furman’s Riley The importance and role Drifting Institute renewal in local UMC will never forget the late summer afternoon when my was no exception. The only person with more grace than Bishop Jonathan Holston is one of of humor in Scripture crazy Granny Tharpe proved she was ahead of her that displayed by my Grandpa with a fly rod was his young Author’s note: In May, I received sacraments only on those rare occa- 44 leaders from across the Lowcoun- time by having the top part of her left ear pierced. You prodigy, my brother Mike after he grew up, so instead of my Doctor of Ministry from Erskine sions when an ordained clergyman try and surrounding areas selected to Part one: Humor as an agent of revelation know, just like all of the young folks do today. Only fishing, I just settled back to watch and learn. Theological Seminary. The title passed through. Likewise, the local participate in the eighth Lowcountry IGranny did it way back in the mid-60s long before it was I received a good lesson in the art of fly-fishing that of my dissertation is “Covenant congregation could not readily class of the Riley Institute at Fur- Editor’s note: This column is part of a Guffaws don’t Gee-Haw with God” ob- cool. day. I learned of the gentle strength that is needed to place Renewal in the Local United Meth- celebrate other liturgical services man’s Diversity Leaders Initiative. three-part essay derived largely from the jection. In Archibald MacLeish’s “J.B.,” It was different back then. It was a simpler time, to be that fly before the fish with only a faint ripple accompany- odist Church.” For this project, I under these circumstances. “Our fellows represent a wide introductions to two books of Barrett’s the play’s God-figure Mr. Zuss expresses sure. Back then only women, pirates and a few unique ing it. I learned of the mystical way a true fly-fisherman combined the traditional Wesleyan A second factor that may have range of professional, community about biblical humor: one published in this objection’s main point when he says people got their ears pierced. A lot of women didn’t even just knows when the time is right to send that fly winging (as contributed to the lack of use of and personal interests,” said Don 2010, the other this year. of his biblical counterpart, “God never bother to go anywhere to get it done. You know, back then toward the prey. I watched as on the backstroke the line found in the Book of Worship) with the covenant renewal service is Gordon, executive director of the Ri- laughs! In the whole Bible!” they weren’t so flighty about everything like we are today. began to curl in upon itself and, just before the opposing the Congregational Reaffirma- that in certain areas , ley Institute. “They have very differ- erhaps it’s happened to you, too. Though it’s quite wrong on the facts, They were not quite so particular about being sure every- edges met, they were snapped forward, straightened out and tion of the Baptismal Covenant like other traditions, has identified ent experiences and perspectives and Engaged in some serious read- this statement summarizes a widely held thing was sanitary and the like, either. They simply used ever-so-gently placed upon the surface of the water. It is (as found in The United Methodist with frontier revivalism. Preaching they work and live in very different ing on a serious subject, you opinion about the Bible’s depiction of a piece of ice to numb the ear lobe and a sewing needle to truly a beautiful thing to watch. Hymnal). I write about this service is of prime importance, followed settings, but they are all established come across an odd expression God. The roots of the opinion lie almost do the deed. Tie some knots in the thread and pull a knot Well, while Grandpa was engrossed in his fishing and I in another article. In this article, I by an altar call. Liturgy is of little community leaders and all share a Por a curious way of putting things that surely in a respectful reverence, which through every day or so until it healed. It was as simple as was mesmerized in my watching, Granny and Mike were write about what I see as the need importance as other acts of worship desire to help move South Carolina makes you laugh. Suddenly, you’re no should itself be respected. that. drifting. So in one of those quirks of fate, Grandpa, with for such a service. become preliminaries or add-ons. forward.” longer just engaged in sober thought and Unfortunately, the content of the But not my Granny, she was far too radical for that. So the simple flick of his wrist, sent that number ten Marathon Another factor that may contrib- Poised to join 1,200 Riley Fellows a shared interest with an author, A.K.A. opinion, as opposed to the attitude it ex- in keeping with her favorite pastime, my Granny used a fly behind him, let it kinda rest in the air for a moment and he traditional Wesleyan ute to the decline of the celebration from across the state, class members an authority. You’ve moved instead into presses, betrays a deplorable ignorance of number 10 fishing hook to pierce her ear. with another flick sent it careening through the air toward a Covenant Renewal Ser- of the covenant renewal service is meet over the course of five months something like a conversation with a per- Scripture, refuted by the witty exchanges To be honest, if the truth were told, Granny didn’t actu- particularly enticing ripple in the water at about a hundred vice has been a part of that the typical congregation today, in a format driven by timely, relevant son, a living, breathing individual whose that go on in Genesis between The Lord, ally do the deed. It was Grandpa who got the job done. And miles an hour. the Methodist movement United Methodist or otherwise, is a case studies and other experiential manner of expression has grabbed you Adam and Eve and the same Worthy, talk about radical – he didn’t even have the courtesy to ask Somewhere in the middle of the stroke my Granny got below the brain level – at the level of the Abraham and Sarah. Tsince the 1740s. It became tradi- people of diverse backgrounds. In learning tools designed to maximize her before he did it. her ear pierced. tional to celebrate covenant re- such situations, traditions that are interactions and productive relation- belly laugh or at least of the giggle box. Reverence is one thing, meaning-ob- It all happened right before sunset out on Deerpoint Lake Now during World War II my Granny had worked in the newal at the New Year, perhaps as unique to any particular denomina- ships among program participants. Some readers of the Bible have had structing opinionation something else, and about a half mile from the Lynn Haven landing. We were shipyard as a welder and about the time that hook hit home a watch night service, or on the first tion or that derive from a bygone DLI is facilitated by Juan Johnson, similar experiences. I am one of them. it should give champions of humorless in a couple of rented johnboats and, as I recall, Granny and she proved that she was equal to the task of telling that fly Sunday of the New Year. era seem to have little importance. an independent consultant and former Though not predisposed to allow room for theologies pause to discover that Scrip- Mike, my brother, were in one boat and Grandpa and I were and her husband exactly what she thought of the whole af- My sense is that few United On the other hand, there ap- Coca-Cola vice president. impish spirits of wit and humor in Scrip- ture often debunks excessive solemnity. in the other. We had been fishing for bass and bream and fair. It wasn’t much, mind you. Methodists today have celebrated pears to be a growing interest in As part of the program, lead- ture, I have, over long years of reading Moreover, the textual evidence should anything else that would bite all afternoon with no luck at As you my recall, my brother was on the boat with covenant renewal or are even fa- the reaffirmation of baptism. Some ers work in cross-sector groups to it, been unable to exorcise or completely silence such folk completely when later all, so about the time the sun was ready to set, when the Granny, and it was about this time that he began to question miliar with it. If asked, the typical who have been baptized as infants respond to real issues and opportuni- control those imps. My two volumes titled books continue what Genesis starts, using wind died down and lake smoothed out, Grandpa decided Granny’s moral authority for washing his mouth out with response may be “I think I’ve heard express the desire to be re-baptized. ties in their communities through “Funny Things Can Happen on Your Way humor and wit to reiterate and reinforce to try another tack. He reached under the seat and pulled soap for saying “darn,” but he decided it would be prudent of it” or, “I think we did that once.” Part of the reason for this is a gen- capstone service projects. through the Bible” reveal the degree to its presentation of the universe’s Creator out his fly rod and reel. He figured, like any good fisherman to let it pass. On the other hand, there seems eral lack of understanding of the Participants reflecting South Caro- which they have come to possess me. As I as something of a practical joker, unpre- does, that if one thing doesn’t work, you try another until It was also about that time that both my brother and I be- to be a growing interest in the reaf- meaning and purpose of baptism lina’s demographics and representing researched and wrote these books, indeed, dictable and full of surprises. you find the right combination that brings home the bacon, gan to develop a love for fly-fishing. It looked like a whole firmation of baptism. Although in- caused, at least in part, by the dif- the corporate, nonprofit, education, I discovered that the number of such imps But though a steady habit of reading or bass, depending. lot of fun to a couple of young boys. terest is growing and the liturgy is fering views of baptism by various faith-based and government sectors is legion. I’ve discovered, too, that their Scripture provides ample evidence to Now my grandpa was born to fish. A rod and reel in his So what is the moral of this story? Simple: Be careful available, still many of our people traditions and denominations. are chosen by nomination and ap- effect if not their purpose, in the Bible as justify Voltaire’s judgment that “God is hand felt honored to be there, because in almost any situa- where you drift! have not experienced it. It is my opinion that another rea- plication. in other texts, is to move us beyond issues a comedian playing to an audience that’s tion, that rod and reel were going to look good, and today Rowell is pastor of Beulah UMC, Gilbert. of authority to acquaint us with the per- afraid to laugh,” that very judgment may The covenant that God makes son for this interest in baptism/re- sonalities – perhaps even, in Scripture’s seem to support our second irrelevance, or with his people is that the “Lord baptism is that, because few babies case, the Great Personality – behind the “Mirth vs. Meaning and Morality” objec- will be their God and they will be are being born into many church writing. tion. his people.” Although we United families today and because there is What If? The Congregational Development Question On occasions when the use of humor This is especially true if finding humor Methodists may not stress this a general lack of evangelism, local or wit in Scripture is obviously intentional in Scripture becomes an end in itself, covenant relationship as much congregations can go two, three – Jotham’s fable (Judges 9:7-21) lam- producing the feared effect of obscuring as some other traditions, we are or more years without celebrat- by the Rev. Sara White pooning his brother Abimelech’s ambi- the sacred themes and religious and moral indeed a covenant people. As stated ing a baptism. As the members of Choosing new life tion, for example, or Elijah’s mockery (I purposes of the text. in the Book of Discipline, the Three the congregation participate in the Kings 18:27-29) of the priests of Baal, or As noted above, however, humor gen- General Rules are the “constant baptism of one of their own, they shley Ridge new church chosen to be. A little more than 20 years congregation in bearing up under disap- not the point of the parable that begins the dry sarcasm of Jesus’ cutting com- erally reveals far more than it obscures. link between Christian doctrine and “remember their baptism and are start and Good Samaritan ago, the core group of the newly formed pointment, grief and conflict. with the question, “Who is my neigh- ments to Nicodemus (John 3:3-10) – the When Elijah mocks the Baal prophets, his Christian living.” They are a work- thankful.” Without this constant United Methodist Church’s faith community had asked the Lake Four years ago, it seemed the time bor?” The Good Samaritan congrega- narrative retains its power to inspire be- wit exposes the folly of their idolatry and ing out of the Great Command- reminder, their own baptism fades congregations are very dif- Wylie community to suggest names for had arrived to say “enough.” But the tion has chosen to be neighbor in its cause of its humor’s aptness to the dramas discloses that only the God beyond nature ment, as well as an appropriate into their distant memory. Celebrat- Aferent places with one very important the anticipated church. Good Samaritan church leadership persevered with a pastor’s words to “these newcomers it describes and the insight it brings to the can control nature. Wesleyan response to our covenant ing the reaffirmation of their bap- shared characteristic. In the months of was one of the suggestions and was vision of more and made very hard who have come to Lake Wylie to make issues dramatized. And when a beneficiary of the healing relationship with God. Both cov- tism may help to keep the meaning September and October, both of these taken up as the new name. The core decisions to ensure the life of the their homes and lives.” With a focus on Such examples alert us to the revela- ministry of Elisha, a proud Baal-wor- enant renewal and reaffirmation of and purpose of their baptism fresh faith communities move from one wor- group probably had little understanding church. And like most decisions that small groups and young families, Good tory or spiritual value in humor – its abil- shipper named Naaman, takes two mules’ baptism are specific examples of in their minds. ship service a Sunday to two. that they had chosen to live out one of choose life, it meant a handing away Samaritan has moved into its commu- ity to shine through facades or help us see loads of soil home to Syria so he can pray the Third General Rule, Practicing As a way of (re)introducing the The stories of their arrival at these the hardest of Christian spiritual gifts – of treasured memories to make room nity in a strong push to be the commu- around corners to bring the truth to light. to his Healer, we can hear ancient Isra- the Means of Grace. traditional Wesleyan covenant re- new faith ventures are very different. hospitality. for new experiences. It meant giving nity church of its area. And every week Despite the considerable evidence elites joining the Creator in uproarious We do not talk much about newal and introducing the congre- On the second Sunday of September, We expect hard work to bring suc- up preferred personal ways for ways it practices its chosen spiritual gift of supporting it, many readers of Scripture laughter at so primitive a theology. Simi- covenant or covenant renewal to- gational reaffirmation of baptismal Good Samaritan began a new worship cess, and for these 20 some years, that meant hospitality to the newcom- hospitality. are likely to resist the claim that humor is larly, in Jesus’ exchanges with Nicodemus day. There may be several reasons covenant to the local congregation, service. In the day of celebration, one the Good Samaritan community has ers in their community – taking up their Four years ago with crushing fi- an important element in the sacred texts. and with the Samaritan woman at Jacob’s for this. In the early days of this I have combined the two services to of the long-time members of the faith worked hard, but not always with chosen name Good Samaritan in a new nancial times and a very low worship Such a claim may seem both irreverent well, we may see the misconstruals and nation, much of the territory that form the congregational Wesleyan community said, “This is what we have what the world calls success and we in way. attendance, Good Samaritan almost said (an insult to the texts’ dignity) and irrel- moral deficiencies of Pharisaic and Sa- was fertile ground for Method- covenant renewal/reaffirmation of been working for.” It was recognition church call fruitfulness. Great success Their current pastor speaks admiring- “enough,” but instead chose a new life. evant (a sidetrack diverting readers from maritan theologies and lifestyles held up ism was frontier, wilderness and the baptismal covenant service. that the growth of a congregation is was sometimes followed by disappoint- ly of that leadership’s guidance of the The new goal is 200 by 12; a goal of an the texts’ sublime themes and purposes). to ridicule. rural. For the most part, these areas I am sure there are other ways not automatic even when it is deeply ment. A series of early crushing events congregation “in choosing to let go of average of 200 in worship by December Such objections represent important The mirth that stories like these gener- were serviced by non-ordained this can be done; perhaps there are desired. The growth comes from inten- created very hard times, and as with power and choose new opportunities.” 2013. concerns. Without attempting to exhaust ate is a means to or byproduct of their and, in many cases, poorly edu- better ways. It is my hope that this tional decisions and focus. every crushing event, the effects lasted So two hard choices: the first to choose Ashley Ridge has its first second their number or complexity, let me ad- meaning, not an obstacle obscuring it. cated, circuit-riding lay preachers. work will spark interest in others to As he prepared the gathered wor- much longer than the years shown on a letting go and the second to take up the service in October. I hope that you will dress briefly two specific objections based Coming next month in the Advocate: Singing a few familiar hymns and find ways of introducing covenant ship body for the returning of gifts to timeline. spiritual gift of hospitality. give me the chance to tell their story as on humor’s presumed irreverence and Humor as an agent of salvation and heal- hearing some preaching was the renewal to their congregations. God-otherwise known as the offering, In today’s culture for new church It’s intriguing that Luke never talks well. But in the meantime consider this: irrelevance. ing. most one could expect. The local Treaster pastors the Gray Court- pastor the Rev. Jason Everson reminded starts, the Good Samaritan congrega- about how much the good Samaritan What if “enough” is not the end? The first – the reverence issue – raises Barrett is professor emeritus of religion congregation could celebrate the Trinity Charge in Gray Court. them with Luke’s account of the parable tion would never have been chartered had to provide the innkeeper for the White is director of congregational what could be called the “Giggles and at Wofford College. of the Good Samaritan of who they had because of the difficulty of a smaller care given to the wounded man. It’s development for the S.C. Conference. Page 12, October 2013 Ministries & Missions Advocate Advocate Ministries & Missions Page 13, October 2013 Idea Exchange VA grant to AWS to help end veterans’ homelessness Drive-thru prayer at Little River Alston Wilkes Society is the recipi- tives that provide services to very low- If you happen to be driving down ent of a $1.45 million homeless preven- income veteran families living in or busy Hwy. 17 in Little River on a tion grant from the U.S. Department of transitioning to permanent housing. Wednesday around lunchtime, you are Veterans Affairs. Those community organizations going to do a double-take when you get The grant will serve approximately provide a range of services that promote to the corner of Hwy. 17 and Mineola 550 participant households throughout housing stability among eligible very Avenue (Mineola means Little River). Celebrating grace South Carolina and in Charlotte, N.C. low-income veteran families. You will see members of our church Campers who participated This award will serve veterans’ fami- Thanks to the SSVF grants, those inviting people to drive through for in Salkehatchie Summer lies associated with the Alston Wilkes organizations will play a key role in prayer. That’s right, drive-thru prayer. Service’s Union Camp (June Society, an Advance Special Ministry connecting veterans and their family 15-22) got a special treat: a Photo by Jessica Connor We live in a society of “fast pace,” so hot air balloon the Thursday of the S.C. Conference and one of 319 members to VA services such as mental we are stepping out of our comfort night of the camp. According Ready for Mission to Thailand community agencies in all 50 states, the health care and other benefits. Commu- zone and meeting them where they are to Salkehatchie founder the Todd Attaway (left) speaks with wife Pam and daughter Hannah Grace to members District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and nity-based groups can offer temporary through the drive-thru prayer ministry. Rev. John Culp, the religious of the Conference Connectional Ministries Aug. 24 about the family’s upcoming move the Virgin Islands. financial assistance on behalf of veter- theme for the week was John Wesley said, “By repeated ob- to Thailand. The Attaways, with their son Noah, 15, are members of Aldersgate UMC, Under the Supportive Services for ans for rent payments, utility payments, grace, and each night of the Greenville, and will become full-time missionaries in the rural community Roi Et, in servations, I find I can command thrice camp, a letter was discussed. northeast Thailand. They plan to leave in November. Funds and prayer support are Veteran Families program, the VA is security deposits and moving costs. the number in the open air, than I can “R” stood for “rise up and do needed. To help the family or follow their journey, visit loveshareserve.blogspot.com. awarding grants to private non-profit More information on AWS is avail- under a roof.” So Little River United good deeds,” Culp said, and organizations and consumer coopera- able at www.alstonwilkessociety.org. Methodist Church heeded John Wes- the balloon helped with the Photo by Don Brown celebration. ley’s encouragement, and that is what they do each week. Turning faith, hope, love into action What a joy it is to have people come UMWomen: into the church parking lot and be Epworth board of trustees prayed for by our lay people. LRUMC by Marlene Spencer is being the hands and feet of Jesus. Volunteers pray with drivers. Seeing a need for a people who need elects new officers to know, no need is too small or too those who came through our drive-thru Preparing for annual meeting big for our God. Many who do not stop prayer come back with answered prayer The S.C. Conference United Meth- at Annual Meeting. tion programs and nurture and develop The theme for the 41st Annual Meet- honk their horns, give thumbs up and requests and/or step out of their comfort odist Women are busy making plans for UMW is a group of women in each programs for UMW members. ing is “With God, Nothing is Impossi- wave. The word is out in Little River. zones and make our church their home. their 2013 Annual Meeting. congregation organized for mission. We Annual Meeting is a celebration ble.” Our keynote worship speaker will You can come and get a smile and We pray this movement will take up We will celebrate 41 years of the are women of diverse ethnic and socio- of UMW in South Carolina and the be the Rev. Tiffany Knowlin, senior encouraging words, and they are acting momentum and churches throughout organization of Methodist Women in economic backgrounds, employed, not total program of mission that we are pastor at College Place UMC, Colum- out the reputation we have as “The the country will engage in drive-thru South Carolina at Bethel United Meth- employed, housewives, businesswom- involved in as we seek to fulfill our bia, and we will be led in Bible study friendly church with the big heart!” prayer. They will be blessed, touched odist Church, Spartanburg, Oct. 25-26. en, single, married, divorced, young, purpose. by the Rev. Candice Sloan, chaplain at The fruit of our labor may never and changed for the glory of God. Rogers Hodge Stevens-Poirel We extend a warm invitation to each of middle-aged and older women. We are So why would you want to be a Spartanburg Methodist College. be totally seen, but it is obvious when – Submitted by Little River UMC you! women committed to mission. part of this celebration? Because our Registration to the event is open The Epworth Children’s Home five years. Tompkins is Chief Finan- Annual Meeting is the highlight As UMW, the strength of women celebration includes opportunities for now. Hotel accommodations will be Board of Trustees elected new officers cial Officer of Edens, a company that of the year. Each year on the fourth working together is a recognized force worship, praise, inspiration and singing; available for those planning to attend New Midlands Family Care Center at Epworth at its August Board meeting. The of- develops, owns and operates shopping weekend in October, S.C. UMW meet in The United Methodist Church. This dynamic and challenging speakers; the the entire meeting. Visit www.umcsc. ficers are Chairperson the Rev. Anthony centers in primary markets throughout at a designated location to worship, organization dates back more than 100 sharing of how we have been in mis- org/umw for a registration form and ho- Hodge, Vice Chairperson the Rev. the east coast; he has served as an Ep- fellowship and conduct the business of years and is a million women strong. sion in the past year and of how we can tel information (look in Mission Echo). Sandra Stevens-Poirel, Secretary the worth trustee for three years. the conference. The meetings are hosted It is both the oldest and the largest continue to be in mission in the future; Please mark your calendars, tell your Rev. Tim Rogers and Treasurer Jason During the August meeting, John by district on a rotation basis alphabeti- women’s organization in the world. workshops, skits, awards and a special friends and colleagues about this event Tompkins. Farley was re-elected as chairperson of cally. During the sessions, women hear Currently, UMW mission giving is at memorial service; fellowship and fun and invite them to join us. Hodge is the pastor of Cumberland the Finance Committee. The Rev. Sara reports of past and ongoing work and work in 103 mission institutions in the with other UMW, along with late-night Putting love into action is what United Methodist Church, Florence, White was re-elected as chairperson of adopt future goals, programs and bud- U.S. and in nearly 300 programs and entertainment, program resource mate- UMW are all about! We look forward to and has served on the Epworth Board the Governance Committee. gets. Every four years, nominees to the institutions in more than 58 countries rials, adoption of our conference pledge seeing you. for five years. Steven-Poirel is the pas- Vic Hannon, Rogers and Dr. Bill UMW Board of Directors and delegates around the world. It supports mission to mission and budget, and election of Spencer is the S.C. UMW vice presi- tor of Trinity UMC, Conway, and has Sullivan were elected to serve as to Jurisdictional Conference are elected service opportunities, mission educa- conference officers. dent. three years of service on the Epworth chairpersons of the Building and Board. Rogers is the senior pastor of Grounds Committee, The Futures Mount Hebron UMC, West Columbia, Committee and the Audit Committee Idea Exchange and has served on Epworth’s Board for respectively. Killingsworth Gala set for Nov. 14 Rehoboth: It is more blessed to give than receive At Rehoboth United Methodist Church, Columbia, Going back to school can be hard when you don’t is open Monday to Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 12 COLUMBIA – Mark your calendars for recognition during the event. Also for we are focused on helping our community in many have what you need to do well. As a church, we came p.m. each week. On average we are able to help 120 the 21st annual Killingsworth Gala, set $50 you can pay for a Killingsworth different ways. In Matthew 25:35 it says, “For I was together to make sure that the children in our commu- families per week. This is a volunteer ministry that is for Nov. 14 at 6 p.m. resident’s ticket to the gala. hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you nity did not have to face school unprepared. supported by our community. The event will again feature a Gala attendees will enjoy music by gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you In addition to our Back to School Bash, Rehoboth To stock our food pantry, our church collects silent auction, formal seated dinner The Dick Goodwin quartet as they dine welcomed me.” In this passage the Lord promises that also has ongoing ministries to help those in need macaroni and cheese by hosting a Macaroni and and program, fashion show and door and get their last bids in before the when you are in time of need He will take care of you. in our community. Each month we have a produce Cheese Sunday the first of each month. Pontiac Foods prizes. This year the theme is “Deck the silent auction ends. After the silent auc- Rehoboth UMC has made it our mission to be ser- giveaway. We prepare an average of 75 bags of of Elgin supports us by providing us with noodles, Halls.” Tickets are on sale now. tion, Dillard’s will provide fashions for vants of the Lord. produce to give to those in our community free of coffee and other nonperishables. Forest Lake Pres- The event will be held at Seawell’s, the show; door prizes will follow. According to City-Data.com, residents in our zip charge. This ministry is open to all and takes place byterian Church, Columbia, also helps us by hosting On Aug. 15, supporters gathered at a ribbon cutting ceremony for the new Midlands 1125 Rosewood Drive, Columbia Gala proceeds benefit the Killing- code have an annual income 50 percent less than the the second Saturday of every month. This has become a Peanut Butter and Jelly Sunday where they collect Family Care Center opening on the campus of Epworth Children’s Home. The FCC is (across from the fairgrounds). Tickets sworth home. For 46 years, Killing- poverty level. We are in a poverty-stricken area and a popular event in our community. We often have a peanut butter and jelly for our food pantry; they also a partnership among Epworth, the S.C. Department of Social Services, the Lexington start at $50 for an individual reserved sworth has offered help to women who we are doing what we can to help those of our com- line that stretches around our 100-foot building. We have a garden that provides produce for our produce Richland Alcohol and Drug Abuse Council and S.C. Health and Human Services. It seat and range up to $1,000 for cen- are going through major life transitions. munity. hope this ministry will help those in need to eat fruits giveaway. Walgreens at Sandhills, Columbia, donates will enable mothers who are struggling with addiction to have a safe and drug-free ter stage seating for eight and special For tickets: 803-771-6359. place to live with their children while they get clean and get their lives in order. Vol- On Aug. 10, we hosted a Back to School Bash for and vegetables even when they are struggling to feed candy to us as a way to show that everybody deserves unteers from First UMC, Isle of Palms, did all the decorating for the new FCC. Naomi the children of the community. The Richland County their family. We receive a portion of our produce from a treat every once in a while. Thanks to our volun- Torfin, executive director of Children Come First, was among speakers at the cer- Donations needed for next Sherriff’s Department came to fingerprint children for our children’s garden. This garden was planted in the teers and partners, we are able to serve approximately emony; the FCC model is her vision. Torfin shared her personal story with the guests their campaign to register all children in their miss- spring by the children of our church and has produced 1,400 people a month. – how she and her siblings grew up in a home where addiction created a frightening and painful environment. She and others hope the FCC will be a place she always Good Samaritans giveaway ing child system. If the child were to ever be reported squash, okra, cucumbers and cabbage for our produce God reminds us in Acts 20:35b “It is more blessed wanted as a child, a place where families can heal together. Guests and speakers in- New and gently used toys, plus 21, 8 a.m. to noon at Lee Central High as missing, this would ensure the police have neces- giveaway ministry. to give than to receive.” Serving those in need is a cluded the Rev. Frank Griffith, chair of the Epworth Board of Trustees; the Hon. Steve clothing, food and other items, are be- School Gymnasium, Bishopville. A sary information to find the child. We had a bounce Our mission-oriented church is also home to a food priority at Rehoboth. To get involved with helping Benjamin, mayor of the City of Columbia; Bob Toomey, director of the S.C. DAODAS; house and a dunking booth to entertain the children. pantry. As partners with Harvest Hope Food Bank, Rehoboth serve our community, call 803-788-2220 or Lillian Koller, director of the S.C. DSS; Debbie Francis, president/CEO of LRADAC; ing collected for the next Good Samari- second giveaway will be Dec. 23. and Lee Porter, chief program officer for Epworth. tans for All People Giveaway. To donate, call the Rev. Eddie Thom- We gave out more than 100 bags of school supplies to we work hard to serve those seeking assistance in six email [email protected]. The free giveaway is set for Dec. as at 803-459-4989 or 803-428-4448. children in the community. different zip codes in our community. Our food pantry – Submitted by Morgan Ward Page 14, October 2013 Ministries & Missions Advocate Advocate Ministries & Missions Page 15, October 2013

Ways receive World Methodist Peace Award Celebrating Local Church Missions Anita and the late Marion Way, husband-and-wife of God. In those 54 years of continuous work, the missionaries known for their work in Angola and couple’s work helped more than 15,000 children and Editor’s note: At Annual Conference 2013, the inaugural Celebrating Local Church Mission Luncheon recognized ministry and missions that local churches are Brazil, are the winners of the 2013 World Methodist 45,000 families, and more than 100,000 through the actively involved in. From the 24 churches responding, the conference’s Lay Leadership group learned of approximately 100 ways S.C. UMC brothers and sisters Peace Award. outreach that their organizations conduct. are spreading the Gospel and love of Christ through reaching out to address the needs of others. The next few issues of the Advocate share more information about The award was presented Sept. 12 at Wesley’s Marion Way died in May, but his work alongside these ministries. This month, we showcase John Wesley United Methodist Church, Charleston, and Whaley Street UMC, Columbia. Chapel in London, United Kingdom, during the World his wife, Anita, in Angola and Rio de Janeiro lives on Methodist Council’s 2013 meeting. as a testament to the power of mission. For their half- As missionaries in Angola and Brazil, Marion and century of work in mission and bringing dignity and John Wesley UMC, Charleston Whaley Street UMC, Columbia Anita Way used their faith to assist in the fight against economic empowerment to the poor throughout Ango- political oppression, racism and other obstacles la and Brazil, the awarded John Wesley has two vibrant and throughout their career. them the 2013 World Methodist Peace Award. active local ministries serving the In 1958, they served as missionaries in Angola dur- For more than three decades the World Method- community. ing a time when Methodist churches were routinely ist Council has presented the World Methodist Peace Through their United Methodist accused of instigating the Angolan people to work Award. Criteria for the award are courage, creativity Women, they sponsored a number of towards independence from Portugal. In 1961, Marion and consistency in work and witness to peace. projects throughout 2012 and 2013 Way was arrested, accused of conspiring and working The Peace Award concept was initiated in 1976 that collected money and items for openly in favor of the cause of the independence of by Dr. Stanley Leyland during the 13th WMC held people in need. They raised $1,000 to Angola. He was jailed for two weeks in a special pris- in Dublin – during the time of intense conflict in purchase Sunday school and vacation on for political prisoners, to be transferred to Portugal. Northern Ireland. It is reported that Leyland was so Bible school curriculum and supplies After three months in jail without formal charges, he inspired by a presentation by Rev. Eric Gallagher for Windwood Farms; collected items and donated to Florence-Crittenton was released and expelled from the country. For their half-century of work in mission and bringing dignity about the Northern Ireland conflict that he moved that In 1962, the Ways were sent by the General Board and economic empowerment to the poor throughout Angola the World Methodist Peace Award be established in an Home in Charleston; packed 100 of Missions of the Church as missionaries to the First and Brazil, the World Methodist Council awarded the 2013 effort to affirm peace. Prior recipients include former shoeboxes, then prayed over and de- Methodist Conference in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, and World Methodist Peace Award to the Ways. South African President Nelson Mandela, Archbishop livered them to Operation Christmas Child; and collected more than 900 John Wesley High School Youth Ministry there they served as deacons of the church to the Cen- their years of service, the Ways were always atten- Emeritus Desmond Tutu and President Jimmy Carter. traveled to Belize with ROWKids to work tral People’s Institute (ICP). Marion developed vari- tive to societal changes and constantly updated the The World Methodist Council finds its origins in pounds of food for the Lowcountry at a school in Billy White. ous programs, including helping the poor of that area needs that arose. In 1995, Anita was appointed to the a conference held in London, England, at Wesley’s Food Bank and the church-run Mul- Whaley Street UMC has set a goal of regular monthly donations of 100 pounds or to develop job skills, such as typing, sewing, English Regional Team Working with the Children’s Area. Chapel in 1881 where some 400 delegates from 30 herin Food Pantry. Crisis Ministry in Charleston; cooked more of food to Harvest Hope. classes and computer skills. Anita was responsible Since 1983, Marion participated at the Head Office of Methodist bodies around the world gathered in an Ec- Through their John Wesley Youth and served breakfast at Star Gospel for Christian education, support services to needy Projects of the First Methodist Conference. umenical Methodist Conference. In 1956, the World Ministry, they traveled to Belize with Mission in Charleston; and traveled to Since 2011 at Whaley Street UMC, families less fortunate by donating to children and teaching music. She also created several Despite obstacles, challenges and disappointments, Methodist Council established a permanent headquar- ROWKids to work at a school in Billy Washington, D.C., to look at home- every Sunday is Harvest Hope Sun- the Harvest Hope Food Basket. They junior and adult choirs in the community. Throughout the Ways never abandoned their ideals in service ters in the United States at Lake Junaluska, N.C. White. They painted the school, built lessness and explore what people day. have set a goal of regular monthly a deck for the headmaster’s house, should do as Christians to help them. During these ongoing difficult donations of 100 pounds or more built shelves to organize the library The John Wesley Children›s Ministry, times, the small congregation works of food for this cause. Since 2004, Nov. 2 Advance Special Ministries Sunday to help 14 S.C. ministries at the school, and led vacation Bible directed by Hope Murphy, also col- to do its part to help the many fami- Harvest Hope has been a cornerstone Across South Carolina exist 14 Set for Nov. 2 this year, ASM ter, Bethlehem Center (Spartanburg), While the ASMs are not solely reli- school. lected and distributed Easter baskets lies in the community who are strug- among Whaley Street’s missions, as unique ministries that are connected to Sunday enables churches to support Interfaith Community Services, United ant upon the conference, their income Also, in the past year they cooked to the kids at Mary Ford Elemen- gling just to buy food. Each week, hunger knows no season. Together, The United Methodist Church but who the conference’s 14 Advance Special Ministries of Greenville, Killingsworth, is supplemented by the conference and served dinner and breakfast to tary School in Charleston. they pitch in to help children and they are changing lives. operate as separate organizations: the Ministries, which provide assistance Coastal Samaritan Counseling Center, through an apportionment line item, Advance Special Ministries. and services to the “least of these.” Cooperative Ministries, PATH (People plus they receive much-needed funds Once a year, UMCs in South Caro- ASMs are as follows: The Alston Attempting to Help), Rural Mission, from ASM Sunday. For more on ASMs, lina have the opportunity to celebrate Wilkes Society, The Bennettsville- Tracy Jackson Program of GIFT, Vol- visit www.umcsc.org and look under Idea Exchange Asbury Hills these Advance Special Ministries Cheraw Area Cooperative Ministry, unteers in Mission and Wallace Family the Ministries tab, then select Outreach, through a special event: ASM Sunday. Columbia Bethlehem Community Cen- Life Center. then Advance Special Ministries. reports The Table: a community mission Native American Ministries We have a mission at Hibben United a month on the meal and toiletries were provided high camp Methodist Church to feed the poor and a Saturday, strictly from the Hibben membership. homeless. the Chris- We have recently partnered with the survey results How to bridge the gap Mission to a church usually means tian Life Lowcountry Food Bank to help supple- a trip to faraway places such as Haiti and Learn- ment our need for non-perishable food. More than 1,000 children attended with the act of repentance and Belize, or closer to home like ing Center Each Table event requires about 20 camp at Asbury Hills this year. Salkehatchie. Although Hibben UMC is open to volunteers. When Hibben had a bus, Arthur Spriggs, executive director At General Conference 2012, an Act • Listen to Native American leader- has participated in all three of these, it individuals we were able to go out and pick up our of S.C. Camps and Retreat Ministries, of Repentance Service was held with a ship to learn of our history and current became evident that a need was much with a need. neighbors, but now we have to rely on said parents have reported extraordinary charge to all United Methodists to enter issues. closer to 690 Coleman Blvd., Mount Each month our own volunteers to transport indi- results from the camp, stating their child into a process of repentance to change • Participate in the Native American Pleasant. we provide viduals and families to the church. We learned independence, to work with oth- the historical and continued relationship Elder Basket ministry (a Native Ameri- A homeless individual approached a meal, bag hope to have a bus in the future that ers, to slow down, to make new friends, between The United Methodist Church can Committee ministry) the church one day in 2009 and asked of groceries, Hibben helps feed others. will allow us to serve a wider need of to make choices, and more. and indigenous Native Americans. • Support and promote existing for help. She had no place to go, was toiletries, haircuts, health evaluation, individuals in the Mount Pleasant area. Spriggs said results from their 2013 The point was clearly made that this Native American ministries in South disabled and was essentially penniless. Bibles, prayers, activities for children The Rev. Kathryn Hunter, co-pastor, Summer Camper surveys are in, and On the road spreading the word of God is a process, not a program. Carolina The church took her in, and she took and much laughter and sometimes said, “My biggest joy has been in results have been “wonderful.” Drawing from Luke 14:23, Wesley UMC, Florence, held a service for its There are action steps that can be • Participate in a SEJANAM Confer- up residence in the Christian Life and many tears shared around the table. The watching and experiencing the grow- Spriggs said 98.8 percent stated that new bus ministry July 21. The ministry is an evangelistic tool that church members taken to implement the process and ence (Southeastern Jurisdictional Asso- are calling one of the greatest in the congregation’s history. For Wesley UMC, it is an Learning Center until more suitable atmosphere is one of caring for these ing friendships between the Hibben they now have a closer relationship with assistance is available. The S.C. Annual ciation for Native American Ministries) integral part of the church’s outreach program. While the bus ministry brings unique arrangements could be made. Beth Her- individuals who need a hand up. volunteers and our neighbors. Many God; 95.7 percent said that they felt Conference has a very active Native • Hold a study course “Giving Our challenges, church members believe with manpower, money, prayer and persistence, nandez is that person, and she brought Beth can relate to all this since she of our new friends live within a couple confident in themselves; 96.7 percent their mission will continue to reach souls so they can share the news that God is American Committee comprised of Hearts Away: Native American Surviv- with her a message that needed to be was a part of this less-than-fortunate of miles of the church, but never stated that they tried something new; good. Here, the Rev. Ernest Frierson stands with the bus during the consecration. Native American leadership from South al” (a school of mission course). heeded. group. She found God, joined Hibben thought they would be welcome here. and 95.7 percent said they can use what Carolina’s tribes and communities. The • Develop a statement that demon- There are lots of homeless people UMC and became the lightning rod for Through The Table, we now have the they learned at camp when they go committee trains local church represen- strates respect for Native Americans in in Mount Pleasant living in the Fran- The Table and acts as coordinator. opportunity to break down barriers and home. Asbury Hills to host fall festival tatives annually on the first Saturday in this Annual Conference with a willing- cis Marion Forest and in any avail- Beth said about the volunteers for share the love of Christ with all of our For more information about Asbury February. ness to work with Native Americans. able nook and cranny, such as under a The Table, “I’m so honored to be a part neighbors.” Hills, visit www.asburyhills.org. for conference, community During the training, Native Ameri- • Generate strategies and goals with bridge. Beth also was familiar with a of such a family at The Table. Each and Archery, hayrides, rock climbing and warm biscuits, free for everyone. The can history specific to South Carolina, action steps that indicate your confer- number of people and families living every one of you all are so loving, car- more are on the lineup for the Asbury camp store will be selling T-shirts, wa- current issues and worship with Native ence’s commitment to strengthening below the poverty level who needed es- ing towards our neighbors and friends, Hills Fall Festival later this month. ter bottles and other items for camp fun. American spirituality are presented. In the relationship with and among Native Leave A Legacy To Change Lives sentials. “We need to help these peo- and how much God works in all of us.” The free festival will be held Sat- Closed-toed shoes are required. addition to training your local church Americans and the UMC. ple,” was Beth’s message to the church, Hibben is an extremely generous urday, Oct. 26, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Large groups or buses should contact representative, the following list sug- • Hold an Act of Repentance Service. and The Table was created in January church with many willing volunteers. The South Carolina United Methodist Foundation There will be free activities for all ages. Asbury Hills prior to the event at 864- gests possible ways to facilitate the Act Do call on the Native American 2012 as a ministry of acceptance and For the first 18 months of this minis- P. O. Box 5087, Columbia, SC 29250-5087 A barbecue or hotdog sack lunch will 836-3711 or [email protected] to of Repentance challenge: Committee. We look forward to work- assistance to Hibben’s neighbors. try, all of the food for the grocery bags be available for purchase. Apple butter get copies of liability releases for any • Hold a Native American Ministries ing with you. [email protected] How does the table operate? Once (about 25-30) a month, and food for will be cooked over a fire and served on minor coming without their parents. Sunday annually. – By Cathy Nelson Page 16, October 2013 History Advocate Advocate Health & Fitness Page 17, October 2013 Signups begin this month for Conference Youth Basketball Tourney Methodism Revisited Organizers are gearing up for the Churches wishing to at a central location. • Gather our conference youth who From the Archives 2014 Conference Youth Basketball enter a team (senior girls, The greatest purpose enjoy playing basketball in a way that Rev. Bob Huggins Tournament, set for Jan. 24-26, 2014. senior boys, junior girls of this tournament is gives them two meaningful worship Dr. Phillip Stone, conference archivist Registration begins in late October. or junior boys) should to provide the United services, which expresses what we as The annual conference tournament visit www.scmethodist- Methodist youth of S.C. United Methodist do when we gather The flea (and Father of Methodist Missions) will be held in the Greenwood District basketball.org for more an opportunity to wor- for any reason; it is a chance to grow in What do we do with all the papers? with games scheduled in 10 gyms in information. New entry ship, meet and compete worship. e stood only one inch taller than man, a scholar, a bishop to us; and as a North Augusta. The championship forms will be on the together in fellowship • Bring together an intergenerational ccasionally the question comes up when I’m talking with five feet, often overweight, son minister of Christ, in zeal, in labours, in games on Sunday afternoon will be at tournament website and brought about by the group to support our youth as they play. someone about what I do in the archives: “So what do you of a successful apothecary born services, the greatest man in the last cen- Riverview Park Recreational Facility in the conference website love of Jesus Christ. • Bring church members together do with all of those papers, files, books and stuff? How do in Brecon, south Wales in 1747. tury.” Even though Asbury had encouraged North Augusta. Grace United Methodist (www.umcsc.org) in late Other goals of the from all over our conference, sharing you catalog them or index everything?” HAt the age of 19 he had read Jurispru- Coke to mount a horse and ride the country- Church, North Augusta, will be host- October. tournament: faculties and playing sites. OThat’s a good question. dence at Jesus College and graduated with sides of this vast land to get a better under- ing this year’s event, with support from Registration is done online through • Bring United Methodist youth • Offer one more of the many doors When we get a collection, whether it’s a closed church’s records, a Bachelor of Arts, followed by a Master standing of it. Coke did not stay long and Belvedere UMC. the conference office. Any church together who enjoy playing sports in a to our youth in the United Methodist the files of a conference agency or the personal papers of an individu- of Arts in 1770. He became mayor of his returned to England in June 1785. Coke was S.C. Resident Bishop Jonathan wishing to fill a team but does not have Christian environment. Teams, churches system. al, it can take a lot of work to transform it from an unorganized pile of hometown, Brecon, in 1772 and three years to make repeated visits to the United States Holston will be the Sunday morning enough youth may combine with other and coaches can learn how competing • Help local churches and ministers boxes and file folders into something a researcher can use. later obtained his Doctor of Civil Law during the next 25 years. He travelled ex- worship speaker. UMCs. in a sportsmanship way can grow Chris- grow in their youth program using a Generally, the first thing we have to do is survey the collection. degree. About the time he became mayor, tensively on preaching tours and, while he The Worship Team includes Holston, The Conference Youth Basketball tian behavior (often a competitive sport leisure ministry. That means that we look through the files and papers, see what topics he was ordained in the Church of England was never fully accepted because of what along with the Rev. Jim Dennis of Tournament was founded in 1977 to brings out our worst self). • Build group dynamics of a church they cover and what kind of materials are there. From that, we begin and had become interested in the Method- Americans viewed as his divided loyalties, Grace UMC, the Rev. Alice Deal of serve United Methodist youth in S.C. It • By having youth involved in the youth program. Help develop friend- to arrange the collection into groups – we archivists call them series ist movement of John and . he nevertheless played a significant part Belvedere UMC, Greenwood District also provides for youth who cannot play play of basketball, we can teach or ships by going away to other cities – of like materials. Is there correspondence? Do we find biographical This made trouble for him, as on Easter in shaping the American church. He made Superintendent the Rev. James Friday with their schools a chance to partici- display to each youth, coach, parent while being a group with other groups. materials, or financial records? Are there files that record the Sunday 1777, a new rector had arrived in eight further visits to America, his final visit and and Rev. Tyler Strange of Grace pate in basketball. In 2002, worship ser- and their church who we are as United For more about the tournament, call subject’s community service work or church work? the parish he was serving in Somerset and being in 1803. UMC. vices were added with all teams playing Methodist. Doris Seals at 803-786-9486, ext. 317. Generally, after looking through the boxes, an order begins to ap- disapproved of the cottage services and While in America he spoke out against pear. If we can find some method to the way the person kept their files, open services promoted by Wesley. slavery and wrote a letter on the subject to we try to keep that – we respect the original order whenever possible. On that Easter Sunday, this man named George Washington. Washington met Coke As we gather like materials into useful groupings, we often will was dismissed from his twice and even invited him to preach before To Your Health place the letters, photographs and other documents into new, acid-free position in the church. His parishioners the U.S. Congress. After spending some The Journey folders for better preservation. Once we have arranged the materials, celebrated the rector’s behest by ringing months travelling throughout England and we try to describe what’s in the groupings. Depending on how much the church bells and opening a hogshead of Ireland, Coke made his first mission to the by the Rev. Sandra King time an archivist has to devote to the collection, describing it can get cider. West Indies in 1786, making further visits by the Rev. David L. Anderson very detailed. Usually we make a list of all of the folders. We box In 1776, Coke had met John Wesley in 1788-89, 1790 and 1792-93. Wesley Shingles: get vaccinated everything up, label the boxes and put them on the shelf. We write a and, because of his extensive education at called Coke “the flea” because he seemed Avoiding the traps guide to the collection – we call it a finding aid – that helps a research- Oxford in law, became one of Wesley clos- always to be hopping around on his mis- n bygone days when we heard Additional possible complications of er know what subjects might be covered in the collection, what’s in est assistants. In 1780, Coke was appointed sions. people say they had shingles, we shingles include scarring, bacterial in- Editor’s note: S.C. Conference rassed that I have lost that much and each series, any especially interesting items that are there and then superintendent of the London District In addition to his work abroad in the assumed they were getting a new fections, pneumonia, vision and hearing Benefits Officer Anderson attended I am still obese. we add a list of all of the folder labels. That goes on our website, so and president of the Methodist Church of United States, he made four tours of the roof put on their home. Today, the impairments and, rarely, death. the Clergy Wellness Institute at Lake But that is not a sign of discour- researchers near and far can find it. Ireland in 1782. With the American Revolu- West Indies and promoted missionary ven- Iword “shingles” can cause even the Shingles sufferers often report excru- Junaluska and made a commitment agement, but of being reminded Some people wonder if we’re going to “just scan it all” or “digitize tionary War coming to an end, many of the tures in Canada, West Africa and Gibraltar. bravest among us to tremble. ciating pain from clothing and bed lin- to improve himself through healthy that life is a race to run. I think Paul everything.” That’d be wonderful, but it would cost a fortune. We are Anglican clergy that had left America and His pamphlet, “An Address to the Pious and If you have ever suffered from shin- ens touching the affected skin. Research eating, exercise and other lifestyle had something to say about that. I digitizing more and more content, and we have a new software pack- returned to England were ready to return Benevolent Proposing an Annual Sub- gles or know someone who has, then studies have shown that shingles pain changes. This is the next installment remember it is not a sprint, where we age that we’ve launched this month that will help us manage more to America, yet with the fact that many of scription for the Support of Missionaries” you know that to say that this disease is “on par with congestive heart failure, in his ongoing health journey. give all that we have in short spurts, electronic files. We should soon have all of our old Conference His- these ministers had not been ordained and (1786), was the first Methodist missionary causes suffering is no exaggeration. In diabetes and depression for disrupting s I began this journey of but life is a marathon, and you have torical Society addresses available for reading and downloading, and with the Bishop of London’s refusal, Wes- tract. He intended to establish missionaries fact, it has been termed “the scourge a person’s quality of life.” For those lifestyle change, I had to just keep going. The race is long, later, hopefully all of our ministerial directories, published histories ley took it upon himself. in Nova Scotia in 1786, but a gale forced of the elderly.” It is predicted that one who develop postherpetic neuralgia a hard time identifying but God gives you the strength to and conference journals. In September 1784, in Bristol, Wesley his landing in Antigua, West Indies, instead. out of every three people will develop with shingles, recovery time and costs my motivation. I know carry on to the finish line. I have lost We already have photos of clergy from 1901 to 1961 on our web- consecrated Coke as superintendent, along Thrilled with the opportunities there, mis- shingles in their lifetime, and the sever- are much higher. It is estimated that the Afear had a lot to do with it. When I a lot of weight but I still have a lot site. What takes time is keeping track of all the digital files – you have with Richard Whatcoat and Thomas Vasey, sion in the British West Indies and other ity of the disease increases as we age. overall cost of shingles and PHN may stepped on those scales at the Insti- more to lose, then will come the part to be able to find it once you scan it! whom Wesley had ordained as deacons then British colonies became his dominant pas- About 60 percent of shingles sufferers be as high as $1.7 million a year in the tute, it was truly an OMG moment. I to keep in the race by keeping the Agency and local church files are usually smaller collections than elders. Coke made the trip from England to sion for the remainder of his life. are women and 40 percent are men. U.S. never thought I weighed so much. lifestyle change going. some of our personal paper collections. We’re looking to keep the America with instructions from Wesley for At the last conference attended by John There are about 1 million new cases of If a person develops shingles, there But the fear was not the only I am truly blessed by a great sup- things that are permanently valuable. For a closed church, that’s the Coke to ordain as a joint Wesley at Bristol in 1790, Coke was named shingles in the U.S. each year. are antiviral medications that can lessen motivating factor; I had just been port system, and that is the wonder- membership records, the church council and min- superintendent of American Methodism. to head the first Methodist missionary But what is shingles, anyway? It is the duration and symptoms if started blessed with a new granddaughter. ful news of being in connection. We utes and historical information about the church. For a board or com- And on Christmas Day 1784, in Balti- committee (he later was made its president, an extremely painful, often debilitating within 72 hours of the appearance of I have two: Rachel and Lilly. They are to keep each other accountable. mission, we’ll look for the minutes, reports and materials that docu- more, Md., a group of about 60 Methodist upon the organization’s revision in 1804). “I rash that can cause oozing blisters and the rash. Pain medications and sooth- both look just like me. (Maybe they My church, colleagues in ministry, ment their programs and activities. Often there’s correspondence and ministers voted on Coke and Asbury (at beg from door to door,” he told his friends persistent pain. ing creams or soaks may also help will grow out of it.) Maria says her friends, family and co-workers (I other related information, too. The process of arranging and describing Asbury’s request) as joint superintendents without embarrassment, and he donated his Shingles is caused by the same virus relieve pain and itching associated with side of the gene pool did not stand know I am leaving someone out) all work the same. We’re always looking to add to the collection of board (in 1787 it would be changed to “bishop”), family’s wealth to the missionary effort. Be- that causes chickenpox, and if a person shingles. a chance. I want a good future for seem to be working so hard at being and commission records. even though Coke’s orders were to ordain ginning in 1792, he led in sending pioneer has ever had chickenpox, then the virus Everyone age 60 and older needs them, and a healthier Granddaddy supportive without overpowering. It We’ve had several large personal paper donations in recent years. Asbury himself. Along with this historical missionaries to most islands in the West is already present in the body and can to talk with their health care provid- could help at times. I wanted to do is truly an amazing experience. A few years back, the Medlock Family donated the personal papers vote was the fact that the church was con- Indies, as well as to new missions in Sierra break out as shingles. Long after chick- ers about receiving the shingles vac- all that I could to be here as long as I I have my moments. I do have of the Rev. Melvin K. Medlock, a longtime clergy member of this stituted as an independent body under the Leone, Nova Scotia, Ireland and France. He enpox has cleared up and been forgot- cine. While everyone who receives can for them. those times when I crave something. conference. More recently, the Holler family donated the papers of the name of the Methodist Episcopal Church, was also an author, writing on such subjects ten, the virus remains hidden along the the vaccine is not fully protected from But in addition to that, I wanted to But I have come to experience that Rev. Adlai C. Holler, a former conference secretary. The Rev. Luther and on Dec. 27, Coke ordained deacons as a multivolume commentary on the Bible nerve roots in a person’s spinal cord, developing the painful shingles rash, feel better – and I do. I have found overcoming those temptations are Rickenbaker, a retired member of the conference who volunteers in and presbyters and consecrated Asbury as and a history of the West Indies. unnoticed. As we age, our immunity to the vaccine has been shown to lessen that getting so much attention and much more satisfying than giving in the archives, and I spent the better part of a year working on those superintendent. He is known as the “Father of Method- the virus declines, and the shingles dis- the symptoms and reduce the chance congratulations on my progress thus to them. Really, it works! Don’t just files, because it seemed like the Rev. Holler kept everything. As John Wigger writes in his book, ist Missions.” He hoped to open Methodist ease can break out. The long-dormant of having PHN by 67 percent. There far seem to almost cause me to start take my word for it – try it for your- Even more recently, the Taylor family donated the papers of the “American Saint: Francis Asbury and the missions in the East Indies and at his own virus then travels along a nerve path to is presently no recommendation for a down a path of, well, I guess I would self. It is not a secret; just try it. Rev. Eben Taylor. That collection is quite large, and it’s going to take Methodists,” “Zealous and mercurial, expense he set sail for Ceylon (Sri Lanka) the skin, causing the painful rash we booster for the shingles vaccine. The call it . I told a gathering Just remember the promise of a while to work through, but it will be a great addition to the archives. eloquent and impetuous, Coke shared little on Dec. 30, 1813, but died at sea May 2, know as shingles. shingles vaccine is covered under after they applauded the fact that I Philippians 4:13, “I can do all things All of these personal paper collections contain a mixture of sermons, in common with Asbury other than their 1814. Most of the time, shingles appears Medicare Part D and many private had lost more than 70 pounds that through Christ who strengthens me.” correspondence and materials that document these ministers’ confer- Methodist faith.” Huggins pastors St. John UMC, in a small area on only one side of health insurance companies – check God has helped me make it so far, By the way, if you want to see ence service and ministry. Yet, Asbury described Coke as “a gentle- Sumter. the body, commonly the face or torso. with your provider to see if it is cov- and I am not proud that I lost that my grandchildren, just ask. I always So what do we do with all of those papers? We try, as efficiently as In addition to a rash, symptoms may ered. much. Rather, I am rather embar- have pictures. possible, to turn them into something that a researcher can use to help include chills, fever, upset stomach and Even if you must pay out-of-pocket tell the story of Methodism in our conference and state, so that people headache. The rash will form blisters for the vaccine, the cost of prevention is in our future will be able to look back and understand their past. which will ooze and finally form crusty less than the cost of treatment. Stone is the archivist for the S.C. Conference of The United Meth- ADVERTISE HERE scabs. The rash usually lasts between King serves as minister at Leesville Be in the know. odist Church, as well as archivist for Wofford College. Read his blog Contact the Advocate today at 803-786-9486, ext. 338, two and four weeks, but can last lon- UMC, Leesville. She is a registered Sign up for the Advocate’s church subscription plan. $10/person a year with 10+ at http://blogs.wofford.edu/from_the_ archives/ ger. For some shingles sufferers, pain nurse with a master’s degree in health or [email protected] participating. $1/member online subscription. [email protected] remains long after the rash has cleared. nursing. Page 18, October 2013 Features Advocate Advocate Page 1 Jump Page 19, October 2013 Wallace Family Life Center AFRICA: Bishop’s trip Jan. 13-20 will launch hunger initiative with AU From Page 1 Want to go on the Africa trip United Methodist ministry a pathway to transformation South Carolina has been intimately with Bishop Holston? involved with the 21-year-old Africa South Carolina will go to Africa Jan. By Jessica Connor University since the beginning. A 13-20, 2014. All-inclusive prices start at $3,498 from Columbia. The deadline South Carolina couple (the Kennedys without late fees is Sept. 30. WALLACE – In a community plagued of Bennettsville) gave the very first Clergy and laity are invited. by poverty, alcoholism, drug abuse and gift to open the university, which is a For more information, email eo@ illiteracy, one United Methodist minis- private, international higher education travelwithus.com, contact the try is doing all it can to transform lives episcopal office at 803-786-9486, or institution founded in March 1992 by download the brochure at www.umcsc. for a brighter tomorrow. the global UMC. South Carolina sup- org/blogposts/events/AF14_50255_ For the past 34 years, Wallace Fam- porters also helped construct the Bishop Layout%201.pdf. ily Life Center has existed to enrich J. Lawrence McCleskey Faculty of the lives of children and adults through Theology building and endowed four across the state should do whatever educational, cultural, recreational and full scholarships in perpetuity for AU they can to go to Africa with the bishop. religious programming. Best known for theology students. After all, Culp said, Africa is the grow- its children’s after-school and summer But despite South Carolina’s long ing church in global Christianity – and programs, Wallace also offers GED history and investment with AU, Salley AU is doing major things to improve testing for high school dropouts, senior and Culp said the conference has never the future of that continent. citizen outreach and more. given 100 percent of its apportionments “When I went to Malawi, I learned “This is a life-changing transforma- for the AU fund. For 2013, that amount the district superintendent of Malawi is tion for people,” said Wallace Executive is $38,445 for the whole conference – a graduate of Africa University, and I Director Corina Esaw. “We’re trying to just 29 cents a member annually. South Carolina has been intimately involved with the 21-year-old Africa University since the saw the crucial need,” Culp said. “Af- get them to see the importance of what Holston, Salley and Culp hope the beginning. rica University is educating the leaders education can do.” trip will open people’s eyes and hearts of the future of Africa in whatever field Situated in northwestern Marlboro Photos by Jessica Connor to the connection between South Caro- S.C. Hunger Project at Annual Confer- do something from an African perspec- is needed – nursing, education, every- County, Wallace is “real poor,” Esaw Angel, 7, enjoys being able to work on reading, science and math during her time at Wal- Xanyah, 9, said she loves the activities and lina and AU, plus foster a new partner- ence in June, AU faculty and admin- tive, a program that would have Afri- thing.” said. It is one of the hardest-hit areas lace Family Life Center. “It really helps with school,” she said. the chance to interact with people. ship for the better of the continent. istration decided to launch a major cans doing for Africa,” Salley said. Culp was aghast to realize that in of economic decline in South Caro- “The January Africa University trip hunger relief effort to kick off while The program is being defined now spite of its renown for making the first lina, and most of the major industries other kids. They are so excited when they can help make a difference. presents an extraordinary opportunity to Holston and the South Carolina team and is expected to involve AU students, donation to AU, for building the Fac- in Marlboro County are now closed. they come here.” “We want to continue our success experience the excitement of an inter- are in Africa. Part of what S.C. did faculty and staff along with the South ulty of Theology and for endowing four People often have to go out of state to Elijah, 8, said he loves the chance to stories another 34 years, another gen- national mission uniquely connected to at Annual Conference was a one-day Carolina team, he said. full scholarships, the S.C. Conference get work because there are few local master his times tables, while Angel, 7, eration,” Esaw said. “It’s about embrac- South Carolina Methodism,” Holston meal-packing event through Stop Hun- “When the mission team leaves, we as a whole has not been a major finan- jobs, and they are technologically left enjoys being able to work on reading, ing your whole community, looking told the Advocate. “Perspective will be ger Now, raising nearly $170,000 for want something that can be carried on cial supporter of the university. “When behind, too. Wallace Family Life Center science and math. beyond the surface.” enlarged and ministry strengthened for global and local hunger relief and send- the ground after them and can be trans- I found out our conference has never is still on dial-up Internet access in a “It really helps with school,” Angel For more about Wallace, visit wflc. years to come because of what one will ing 285,000 meals to people in need. ferred to other African countries,” Sal- paid 100 percent of our apportionments world where most everything is tran- said. tripod.com, email wallace@bellsouth. witness on this tour.” Led by AU Vice Chancellor Fanuel ley said. “In addition to that, we want to Africa University, I felt we needed to sitioning to online, including seeking Esaw said the extra help in a secure, net or call 843-479-7991. “We’re trying to get them to see the im- Tagwira, the Faculty of Agriculture people to be able to see the fruit of their encourage that,” Culp said. unemployment benefits. Many children loving environment makes a big dif- portance of what education can do,” says Stopping hunger ‘from an African and the Institute of Peace, Leadership labor. We take trips to the Holy Land, Wallace Executive Director Corina Esaw. Salley thinks South Carolina has not are being raised by grandparents or ference to kids, some of whom would perspective’ and Governance are developing a new we take trips to Alaska, we take trips all paid 100 percent to the AU fund be- aunts and uncles. spend the entire afternoon alone watch- Not only will people be able to see program that can deal with stopping over to look at programs and projects, cause people are not fully aware of the “We do help a lot of marginalized ing TV while their caregivers work a what their dollars and commitment hunger, but from an African perspec- and now we want people to take a trip connection between the conference and children here, the innocent victims who late shift or second job. have done at AU for all of Africa, but tive, Salley said. to Zimbabwe and actually be able to see the university, and they do not under- often get left on the side of the road,” “A child goes home alone, or comes they also will witness the beginning of “We thought about launching a Stop the work of the church and in particular stand all the tremendous good AU has Esaw said. “It’s a place where they can here to a safe place and goes home with a new sustainable agriculture program Hunger Now program, doing what South Carolina and help launch what done throughout Africa. get refuge, even if just for a couple their homework done and feeling he’s that has the potential to solve hunger people in the U.S. are now doing and we think will be a new initiative.” “Now that we’ve had 21 years of this hours.” accomplished something,” Esaw said. problems long-term on the continent. shipping meals to other countries, but ministry, we now see graduates who At Wallace, children are taught the Wallace does have its obstacles. Inspired by all the good the S.C. when we looked at it and talked to our ‘A crucial need’ are in Africa and all over the continent importance of working hard at their Like most nonprofit ministries, lack of Conference did through its successful faculty and staff, we decided we would Culp said he thinks clergy and laity making a difference in every walk of studies and mastering reading, com- funds and volunteer labor can be chal- life,” Salley said. “What we want is for prehension skills, math and science. lenging, and Wallace also struggles to people to actually be inspired to give It’s their ticket to a better life – an make do with an aging building that that 100 percent.” escape from the poverty and despair has had limited upkeep over the years. He said the trip to Africa is a huge surrounding them. They also are taught They need to replace their doors, which opportunity for this conference, calling to develop a sense of awareness about the fire marshal said are outdated, and it a “wonderful mission event that is the help they receive – not just grateful- they have a major to-do list including mission and ministry at its best.” ness, Esaw said, but an awareness that fencing, new carpeting and additional “Africa University in the DNA of empowers them about giving and one’s storage. Their gutters were done in South Carolina,” Salley said. “Hopeful- contribution to the whole. May, the roof in July and some plumb- ly when they get there and participate in “It’s an ownership of where they ing work in early August, but the work activities, there won’t be any question are,” she said. “The Bible tells us to continues. about why we should continue to do remember our history, to remember They also need supporters to help what we do.” where we come from so we can know with everything from prayer and where we’re going. … There’s more to volunteering to adopting a Christmas About the trip life than just ‘get a job’; they must be a Child. Every year at Christmas, Wal- The itinerary starts in Johannesburg success. Each generation must be better lace provides a person with the name, with visits to the Apartheid Museum, than the last.” size and favorite toy of one child; many Hector Pietersen Museum and Mandela Built from the ground up in 1979 times, the “adoptive parent” will decide House. Then it is on to Mutare, Zimba- by United Methodist Women in the to help the entire family, purchasing bwe, with a stop at the Halfway House area, Wallace initially focused on adult clothing and other gifts for parents, between Harare and Mutare. The group programming, but they quickly shifted grandparents and siblings, too. Esaw will visit Africa University next, then their focus to children. After all, as herself was a Christmas Child recipient round out the trip at Fairfield Children’s Esaw said, parents listen to their chil- many years ago, and she knows how it Home at the Old Mutare Mission. dren, and the children end up pulling in feels to be blessed with new clothing All-inclusive prices start at $3,498 the whole family for outreach. and toys when just getting a meal on the from Columbia. Registration is going Shanetta Strong has four kids who table can be a hardship. on now, and the deadline to register have come to Wallace the last four “It really does touch people’s lives,” without late fees is Sept. 30. years. Esaw said. “It makes Christ real.” Besides the bishop, Salley, Culp and “My kids love it here,” Strong said. Esaw and others from Wallace invite the new class of ordinands, many other “It’s enriching, it helps them with their United Methodists across South Caro- clergy and laity from S.C. are also go- studies and they get to spend time with lina to visit their center and learn how ing on the trip. All are welcome. Page 20, October 2013 Page 1 Jump Advocate Advocate Page 1 Jump Page 21, October 2013 HOMELESS: More than 1,600 estimated homeless in Columbia SCAM: ‘They are highly crafty. Someone’s going to a lot of effort’

From Page 1 From Page 1 Connection. She urged conferences to In her situation, Benson immediately How do you feel about share the scam information with their notified her district via email, then Dialogue turned volatile; social me- Bledsoe allegedly got on the line. criminalizing the homeless churches, and the S.C. Conference im- called Clemson University Police De- dia, news blogging and other conversa- or enacting tougher laws? Benson said the caller was very tion escalated. Many participated in a “ mediately complied. partment to report the crime. She said jovial and knew all sorts of personal in- Write a letter to the editor and You think you’re being Suspicious pastors who received if she had not read the warning emails peaceful “loiter-in” protest downtown formation about her – her name, which email it to advocate@ helpful, and they made it calls informed authorities, who imme- from the district, she might not have wearing the letter “H” in support for umcsc.org. Deadline is the 10th church she pastors, even her private diately began spreading the word both paid such close attention to the fact that homeless neighbors. of every month. office number where she works during sound so realistic. within affected conferences and among the call was a scam. Over the last month, the city council the week for Clemson University. the Council of Bishops. “They are highly crafty,” Benson clarified that the plan was not approved, But Benson knows Bledsoe person- – S.C. pastor (speaking on Police are investigating, and the S.C. said about the scam artists. “Someone’s that it was merely being discussed, and Christ said we are to be minister to,” ally, and she asked him a question about anonymity) who gave Conference is doing its best to spread going to a lot of effort to get all the on Sept. 3, the council went forward Cooper said. her daughter, and he couldn’t answer it. the word to local churches via email, information to make it sound so appeal- with what some call a more compas- Part of ministering to the homeless Then he asked her for money. money to the scam artist website and district offices. A police-led ing to us about what we are called to do sionate proposal in a motion by Mayor involves advocating for fair, just and “I knew it was a scam. I said, ‘Shame scam training event is being developed and that’s help others, and they’re using Steve Benjamin. Key in that proposal humane laws, she said. on you for impersonating Bishop Bled- now by the conference communications an African-American bishop. Very, very is a decision to open the city’s winter “For (the council) to come up with soe,’ and he got quiet,” Benson said. office to help educate pastors and laity crafty.” homeless shelter early – it now will run a plan that says you are to go only so Benson, who hung up before sending on scam awareness and protection. Anyone who receives a scam call seven months, from Sept. 24 to April far from the place we put you, one, it’s money, was one of the lucky ones. “The person calling“ sounds just like For now, the conference is urging is urged to notify the conference right 15, and be open not only at night but all unconstitutional, and two, it’s the same Others didn’t fare quite so well. the bishop; (the victims) were con- people to use caution – and don’t just away at [email protected] or 803- the time, 24 hours a day, seven days a Photo by Paul Palmer problem we have across America – According to the S.C. Conference of vinced they were talking to the bishop,” send money if directly asked. 786-9486, ext. 307. week. Brandon Lazarus, pastoral intern at Trenholm Road United Methodist Church, Columbia, greed, us versus them, we’re so much the UMC and the Council of Bishops, Brodie said. “Any request for money will come While the phone calls are usually In addition, the council plans to speaks in solidarity with homeless brothers and sisters at a Columbia City Council meeting. better than them – and I think that churches, pastors and laity across the In South Carolina, several churches, as a general request from the episco- coming from numbers 404-821-0437 request proposals from the community cannot criminalize or demonize being might come back to haunt us at the End country have been receiving fraudu- pastors and laity received calls, includ- pal office through the proper channels and 323-742-1110, they can originate for a more comprehensive long-term poor,” Knowlin said, noting Scripture Time.” lent calls from a scam artist using the ing Benson. At least one person report- – from the Cabinet to the districts to the from any number. If a phone number is solution for the plight of Columbia’s calls us to be advocates for those who Lazarus said going forward he hopes names of S.C. Resident Bishop Jona- edly gave money. churches, statewide; it’s not going to be visible on caller ID, write it down and homeless individuals and families – live on the very margins of life. “ Christians will let God guide their ac- than Holston, South Georgia Resident “They know their stuff, they knew all the bishop calling someone on their cell provide it to the conference as soon as anything from year-round shelters to And Columbia does have many on We are all God’s children, tions and hearts regarding the homeless, Bishop James. R. King Jr. or Northwest these details, like the bishop having sur- phone,” Brodie said. possible. a centralized location for nonprofits to those margins. Recent numbers from and we cannot criminalize who are every bit as loved by God as Texas-New Mexico Bishop W. Earl gery,” said one S.C. pastor who thought provide relief services. The request for the Midlands Area Consortium for the or demonize being poor. we are. Bledsoe in their schemes. the call was real and sent money. That proposals has not yet been called, but Homeless estimate more than 1,600 “The city government is not what “Usually what happens is the scam pastor wishes to remain nameless and they will be due to the city Jan. 2, and homeless men, women and children will make the difference, but the city artist calls up pretending to be the – Rev. Tiffany Knowlin spoke to the Advocate on condition of churches, nonprofits and individual in the Columbia area – and Lazarus – as in the people and the church – is bishop and explains his niece is moving anonymity. advocates are encouraged to put their thinks there are maybe 700-800 beds at College Place UMC where change is going to happen,” to the area and her car broke down,” The pastor said being scammed heads together and develop a good shelters. Columbia Lazarus said. “It is important that said Matt Brodie, S.C. Conference com- “made me feel violated and used.” plan for the city. United Methodists are Knowlin herself experienced a life- churches and Christians be willing to munications director. “You think you’re being helpful, and among those working toward a plan. changing encounter in conversation listen to what the Spirit wants them to Often using the name Rosa Allen they made it sound so realistic,” the The silver lining in the aftermath of with a homeless man named Larry who do regarding the homeless rather than for the niece and explaining she works pastor said. “I just hope that they are this has been the new awareness many was digging in a trashcan in Atlanta. At just what the city says.” for the federal government, the scam- caught and this thing comes to an end.” in the Midlands have about our home- the time, Knowlin was in a “lost space” To read the Homeless Response Mo- mer tells the victim the niece is at a “This scam seems more deliberate less brothers and sisters, Lazarus said. in life and didn’t know where God was and she has been involved“ in the recent tion approved by the city council Sept. Firestone or similar car repair shop and than most,” wrote Jo Ann McClain, When the uproar started after the first leading her, but Larry was the person homeless solidarity. 3, visit www.columbiasc.net/depts/pub- needs money sent by Western Union to Council of Bishops administrative as- council meeting, Trenholm Road UMC God used to open her eyes to His plan. “I know it’s hard – some people lic_relations/downloads/Homeless%20 pay for an auto part. sistant, in an email to UMCs across the started holding a worship service for That experience gave her “a whole dif- don’t smell nice or they have addiction Shelter%20Motion.pdf. For more about the homeless and others at Finlay Park, ferent lens,” she said. problems and … they’re not someone advocating for homeless neighbors in a popular place where many home- Knowlin said we need to look at the we want to come sit down at our dinner the Midlands, email Lazarus at bran- less go for rest. The Rev. Mike Smith true face of our homeless neighbor, table, but they are the least of these that [email protected]. preaches a short homily, reads Scripture and it is not just a man with a bottle and serves Communion for all gathered. urinating on the side of a building. It’s The first service was so moving the mothers and children, too – something church decided to hold the service regu- she sees every day when she comes to larly to be in solidarity with homeless work. College Place UMC houses the brothers and sisters, Lazarus said. childcare facility Children’s Garden, The Advocate “For those living on the streets, and Knowlin said two-thirds of the chil- their whole life is vulnerable – from dren served go to shelters every night. the elements, from the looks, from the Their mothers want the same thing for Legacy Society stereotypes – and out of that vulnerabil- their children that all mothers want, she Assuring Christian journalism for tomorrow ity comes this longing for community said. and this longing for God,” Lazarus said. “Poverty is rampant in this com- “That’s why it is important for me to munity, and it is not only men who find be one more voice for advocacy for the themselves in this condition,” Knowlin In June 1837, 176 years ago, least among us. ... If nothing else, all said. “It is an ‘us’ issue that we as a the Advocate began inspiring this stuff going on at city council has community need to figure out together and informing Christians brought light to the various needs in our – not just city council, but all of us throughout the South. community.” together.” The Rev. Tiffany Knowlin, homeless Emily Cooper, a member of Wash- Today, the award-winning, advocate and pastor of College Place ington Street UMC, Columbia, and highly respected newspaper UMC, Columbia, said that as conversa- the former editor of the Advocate, is continues its mission of tion continues to happen, it is crucial to a passionate homeless advocate. Her remember it is not “us versus them.” church has an active soup kitchen that connecting United Methodists “We are all God’s children, and we regularly feeds the homeless and poor, by independently reporting news, engaging readers and providing a forum for dialogue – both in print and online. ADVERTISE HERE Consider including the Advocate [email protected] or in your will or other estate planning. 803-786-9486, ext. 338 803-786-9486 | [email protected] | AdvocateSC.org Page 22, October 2013 District & Local News Advocate Advocate District & Local News Page 23, October 2013 Dellinger to Anderson District coming will also be that day. A covered Wesley UMC marks sesquicentennial Congratulations to the Rev. Paul dish lunch will follow. On Oct. 21-22 and Doty Cheezem on the birth of their at 7 p.m., the Rev. Michael Arant will YORK – One hundred and fifty years ago, in early 1863, the keynote granddaughter. Larke Cothran Yates be the speaker, with special musical Rev. Narlett and other community members organized Wes- was born Aug. 18. Rev. Cheezem is guests. All are welcome. ley Methodist Episcopal Church. women’s day the pastor of Dickson Memorial UMC, The church now known as Wesley United Methodist Townville. Marion District Church has stood as a beacon of light and hope to the mem- Congratulations to the Rev. Buddy bers and community for the past one-and-a-half centuries. at St. Paul and Gail Phillips on the birth of their Located in the heart of the city of York, and with a mission Columbia District grandchild. William Hudson Phillips statement that reads, “We are our brothers and sisters keep- The Young Adult Ministry of Mill was born Aug. 28 to Karen and Tyler ers, our mission is to minister and nurture the members of our Creek UMC, Columbia, will hold a Phillips and welcomed home by big congregation and the community at large, in order to make garage sale Oct. 12. Proceeds will go to sister Ansley. Rev. Phillips is the pastor disciples for Jesus Christ,” the Wesley congregation contin- a church member who was paralyzed in of First UMC, Myrtle Beach. ues to touch the lives of people through its various missions a car accident. and ministries. Chapin UMC, Chapin, will hold The anniversary committee has planned several events and its annual bazaar Oct. 18-19 featuring Wesley UMC shows appreciation for pastor, wife Rock Hill District activities to illuminate and celebrate the church founding, Wesley UMC, York, has stood as a beacon of light for 150 years. holiday crafts, baked and canned goods The congregation of Wesley UMC, Florence, showed appreciation for their pastor and Aldersgate UMC, Rock Hill, will history and ministry to the people. Members of the commit- invitation to area churches to come and participate in prais- and casseroles and soup. “first lady” July 21. They offered tokens of gratitude, a little bit of laughter and symbols hold its Vendor Paradise Oct. 12 from 9 Mount Hebron UMC, West Co- of love that they say cannot begin to show how the Wesley family feels about the tee have diligently worked to contact former members, pas- ing God for what He has done and is doing in the life of this Dellinger a.m. to 2 p.m. Indoor and outdoor ven- lumbia, has recently “Filled the Ark” Rev and Mrs. Ernest W. Frierson. The congregation said the Friersons are known for tors and friends to make them aware of this special milestone congregation. sharing their gifts, time and talents by being there when they are called upon. They dors will sell wares, and a silent auction in the life of this church. The celebrations will end with a Special Sesquicenten- for Heifer International. A special have led by example and taught the congregation how to live with life’s problems and and bake sale will also be held. ELLIOTT – Minister Darlene Del- Events to celebrate the anniversary began in July and will nial Church Worship Service Nov. 3 at 3 p.m. Area UMCs Lenten offering, Bible School emphasis circumstances. Here the Friersons share a smile during the service. linger will keynote the annual Wom- continue throughout the year until early November. are invited to this service to worship with the congregation. and special gifts from members of the en’s Day Program at St. Paul United Spartanburg District A Pew Packing Sunday, where family members of past Bishop Jonathan Holston has planned to attend, and members congregation resulted in raising $5,000 Florence, held a bell-ringing ceremony continued with special meal and an Methodist Church, Elliott, Oct. 6. Congratulations to the Rev. David and present members were invited to attend the Homecoming are looking forward to hearing his message of inspiration and for this organization whose mission is Aug. 28. afternoon of games and other activities Dellinger is from Mount Hermon and Mary Nichols on the birth of their Services, kicked off a three-day revival. The Saturday follow- hope for the future. to work with communities to end hun- for all ages. Missionary Baptist Church, Bishop- first grandchild. Louisa Catherine ing the revival, members and friends attended a church picnic The anniversary theme “Celebrating our History, Embrac- ger and poverty and care for the Earth. Beginning Sept. 11, Lee Road ville. Greenville District Hulme was born to Chris and Frances at Alexander Park for food, fun and fellowship. ing the Future” gives each member an opportunity to use UMC, Taylors, will resume its popular The program, held at 3 p.m., is Congratulations to the Rev. Matt and Hulme. Rev. Nichols is the pastor of Upcoming events include a fall festival Sept. 28 and a the momentum and joy of celebration as a way to reach out “Wonderful Wednesdays.” As usual, sponsored by the United Methodist Florence District Katie Yon on the birth of their daughter. Bethel UMC, Spartanburg. potluck dinner Oct. 30. On Nov. 1, the church will host a to others as this congregation continually strives to make meals will be served from 5:30-6:15 Women. For more information, call Congratulations to the Rev. John and Carolina Bailey Yon was born Aug. 17 Congratulations to the Rev. Fred Praise and Worship Night for the community, including an disciples of Jesus Christ. p.m. followed by unique programs. 803-428-3149. Carol Hipp on the birth of their grand- and welcomed home by her big brother, and Debby Parker on the birth of their son. Taves Foster Hipp was born Aug. Christopher. Rev. Yon serves Sharon sixth grandchild. Rev. Parker serves the 28 to Benjamin and Beth Hipp. Rev. UMC, Greer. Hartsville District Foothill Charge, Spartanburg. Rembert-St. John gives back through home repair mission Hipp is the superintendent of the Flor- Lee Road UMC, Taylors, held its The Rembert-St. John Charge, ence District. Community Sunday Sept. 29. This day Rembert will hold a revival at St. John Mission work often takes place family from St. John – John and To commemorate the 50th anniver- featured plenty of food, fun and fellow- UMC, Rembert. The event will begin across oceans and in worlds far away Carlene Boykin, their daughter Sherry sary of Martin Luther King Jr.’s I Have ship! Beginning with an outdoor service Oct. 20 at 10 a.m. with the Rev. Angela Did you know that you from home. The United Methodist Grainger and her son Tyler – were on a Dream speech, Cumberland UMC, led by Pastor Doug Gilliland, the day Marshall as preacher. St. John’s home- can make a gift and re- congregations of the Rembert-St. John hand to work hard,” she said. ceive guaranteed income Charge – McLeod Chapel in Sumter No one was disappointed with the County, Beulah in Kershaw County and end result – least of all Ms. Margaret, for life? St. John in Lee County – found that the homeowner. mission work can also be done at home. “A lot of love and hard work went That’s exactly what dozens The Rev. Pat Amick, in her second into making this home look like brand of people have done since 1982 year of ministry, said helping one’s new,” Amick said. “Ms. Margaret through Charitable Gift An- neighbor also changes “the people do- was tickled and enjoyed watching the nuities with the South Carolina ing the helping.” work as well as getting to know the United Methodist Foundation. “People are transformed when ‘love Above is the house “before,” as Rembert-St. The house after its paint job, thanks to hard people who had come to her home. Current One-Life Rates your neighbor’ becomes a reality and John Charge members paint it. work by members ages 9 to 90. New friendships were made that day, For Selected Ages* people give of their presence, their and there was a lot of fun and laughter talents and their gifts as they become tions to jump on board, and Amick and workers. Robert and his wife, Ginny, along the way.” Age 60 4.4% the hands and feet of Jesus on earth,” Robinson soon paid a visit to the widow as well as Gerald Walker from Beulah, In addition to painting the exterior, Age 65 4.7% Amick said. to discuss the project. spent a lot of time and effort the week the eaves in the front of the house and Age 70 5.1% Robert Robinson, a member of Before the painting and repairs began prior to Aug. 3, gathering supplies and the steps at the back door were re- Age 75 5.8% McLeod Chapel, knew of a widow with on Aug. 3, there was plenty of work to beginning the process of scraping off placed, according to Ginny Robinson. Age 80 6.8% health problems who was not able to be done. the many layers of paint in order to be “It was kind of like Extreme Make- Age 85 7.8% take care of her home, Amick said. “Each of the churches gave dona- ready for the group that would be com- over and what you see on HGTV,” she After sharing the information with tions to purchase supplies which would ing on Saturday to work.” said. “This project was important to all Two-Life Rates Available his pastor and others at his church, the be needed so everything could be Young and young-at-heart alike of us and especially Robert. He served Upon Request idea was born to talk to the other two bought,” Amick said. “Volunteers from showed up on Mission Day, Amick as the project manager, and he’s been a $1 Per Member * Rates are subject to change. churches about painting the house and all the churches signed up. The ladies said. Volunteers ranged in age from 9 Salkehatchie volunteer for six or seven doing some minor restoration. It was at Beulah, along with their husbands, to 90. years or now. He really enjoys this type an easy job convincing the congrega- made plans to bring food to the hungry “Three generations of the Boykin of mission work.” Gift Annuities with the Founda- That’s how little it costs tion provide guaranteed lifetime income at an attractive rate, Trio of churches mark Native American Ministries Sunday immediate tax benefits for your Native American Ministries Sunday that we all believe in the same God. and when the sixth year is reached, a your church to have a one-year charitable contribution, and a was observed May 5 at New Hope Unit- She stressed how important it is that book on the history of each tribe will be way to leave a legacy for the ed Methodist Church, Oak Grove UMC we teach our children our heritage so in presented. online subscription to the Advocate future. and Pleasant Hill UMC, in the Marion future generations, our heritage will not A special offering was received at ------District. These churches are pastored by be lost. all three churches to give the Native The South Carolina the Rev. Daniel M. “Sonny” Hall. At the end of the church service, American Committee to help support HOW IT WORKS: You send us $1 multiplied by the average weekly attendance as reported in the Con- United Methodist Foundation, Inc. Beckee Garris was the guest speaker Garris presented each church a friend- the Native American ministries, schol- ference Journal. If you have 150 members as your average weekly attendance, then its just $150. (Big P. O. Box 5087 at all three churches. Garris is a lay ship necklace that she made using clay arships, etc. The Nominations Com- churches, nto worry, $1,000 max.) Then every month, we email you the pdf of the Advocate and you Columbia, SC 29250-5087 member of the Native American Com- from the Catawba River. A Native mittee from each church appoints a email dit directly to your members. You retain control of your list – no sharing or privacy issues! mittee of the S.C. Conference of the American tradition is to present a gift to Native American Representative each Send me information about a UMC. The scripture was Matthew each church that welcomes a member year. This year’s representatives are Charitable Gift Annuity with the 6:14-15, and her message was on per- from the Native American Committee Pat Franklin from New Hope, Beverly Foundation. sonal spiritual growth through the act to speak on Native American Ministries Thompson from Oak Grove and David It’s that easy! Name ______of forgiveness. She presented a heart- Sunday. Since this was the first visit Smith from Pleasant Hill. Address ______warming message using her personal from the committee to these churches, The churches said they were pleased Sign up today: www.advocatesc.org/home/images/churchplan.pdf City ______experiences. She also spoke about a friendship necklace was presented. and appreciative to have Garris as guest State ______Zip ______her Catawba Indian heritage, Native Future visits will include beads from speaker and they enjoyed her inspira- Beckee Garris presents a friendship neck- or contact us at 888-678-6272, ext. 335, or [email protected]. American myths and, most importantly, the different tribes of South Carolina, tional message. lace to Jerry Wayne Shaw. Page 24, October 2013 District & Local News Advocate Advocate District & Local News Page 25, October 2013 UM pastor writes hymn, Wesley UMC holds family John Wesley celebrates urges hymn-writing movement reunion, honors supporters with ‘Pinwheels for Peace’ The staff at Main Street United Methodist Church, Greenwood, had A Hymn of Thanks for MONCKS CORNER – Wesley United children; Rosena Sweatman, sponsored On Sept. 21, John Wesley United 21, there were approximately 500,000 designated Sept. 25 as a Sunday to Christian Teachers Methodist Church celebrated its inau- by her children; Dr. Patricia Gibbs; Methodist Church, Charleston, took pinwheels spinning throughout the (Tune: Ellacombe 7.6.7.6 D) bless their teachers. gural Community Family reunion Aug. Patricia Gissentanner (deceased) part in an international art and literacy world. Last year, more than 4 million Through some simple research, they 1. All praise to God our Father, the 25. sponsored by husband, Alexander Gis- project, Pinwheels for Peace. They pinwheels were spinning in over 3,500 discovered more than 60 educators in source of every good! This event focused on family and sentanner; Arthur (Dale) Thompson; planted pinwheels with messages of locations, including the U.S., Europe, their church. For minds to search out secrets, and community uniting to celebrate the gift Sandra Johnson; Johnny Thompson, peace at on Savannah Hwy. in Charles- Asia, Australia, Canada, the Middle Not until they compiled them did learn the ways of truth. of fellowship. Families from across sponsored by children; Betty Sevens; ton. East, Africa and South America. they realize these teachers were the The disciplines and virtues for this Pinwheels for Peace is an art instal- Locally, John Wesley UMC Chil- great task we pray, the community came together to share Juanita Fishburn, sponsored by her church’s largest mission force, touch- And teachers who will guide our path common histories, unique stories and children, Jeanett Scott and Sarah Mid- lation project started in 2005 by two art dren’s Ministries coordinated the pin- ing the lives of more than 1,000 along the way to you. the great bond of fellowship that has dleton; Harriett Grier, sponsored by teachers, Ann Ayers and Ellen McMil- wheels project this year. children and young adults every week. been and is being given through the sister Sarah Middleton, Jeanett Scott lan, of Coconut Creek, Fla. They started The children created pinwheels of all These educators are the church in mis- 2. To our great rabbi Jesus Christ, we victory of Jesus Christ. (and children of Harriett Grier); Sarah the project as a way for students to ex- shapes and sizes, and on International lift our voice in praise! sion. For holy words and mighty deeds that The following individuals (some Williams, sponsored by her daughter, press their feelings about what’s going Day they planted their pinwheels at the But when Main Street’s pastor, Bethany UMC is gearing up for their annual Autumn Tea Room and Gift Shop. This year’s deceased) were honored and remem- Linda Williams; and Lieber Correctinal on in the world and in their lives. church as a public statement and an art showed your kingdom near. event is Sept. 30 to Oct. 11. the Rev. Phil Thrailkill, searched the O may we ever follow those who first bered: Thelma G. Richardson; Julia Institution, sponsored by the staff and In the first year, groups in more than exhibition. United Methodist Hymnal for a good followed him, Mae Rose Bines (deceased), sponsored Joesph L. Mcfadden, warden. 1,325 locations throughout the world For more information, visit www. And find in all our teachers a model of lyric for this blessing, the shelves were by her children, Dr. and Mrs. Lee The church said these individuals were spinning pinwheels. On Sept. pinwheelsforpeace.com. his ways. Bethany UMC gearing up for empty. A Google search turned up C. Bines; Henrietta Pollins Gordon gave honorable contributions in sup- little. 3. The Spirit is our holy guide into the (deceased), sponsored by her children, port of their love for the ministry of Grace UMC ready for October An idea then crossed his mind: Why ways of life! Autumn Tea Room, Gift Shop Dr. and Mrs. Lee C. Bines; Rebecca Jesus. Some of these individuals gave not write a hymn? We look for light upon the page and Washinton (deceased), sponsored by outstanding contributions in honor of ‘ Time’ fire within our hearts. “‘Well,’ I thought to myself, ‘I’ve Inspire our teachers, God we pray, Each year, residents of Summerville room, and Bethany invites the public to her children; Eddie Francis (deceased), loved ones who were humble and com- UNION – Grace United Methodist days in October will feature Gospel never done that before.’ Necessity with insights from above, and Bethany members eagerly await come with family, friends and co-work- sponsored by parents, Mr. and Mrs. mitted leaders to the ministry of Jesus Church is preparing for what mem- songs and a casual atmosphere. overcame resistance. I began by find- That by their love and joyful lives, we the annual Autumn Tea Room and Gift ers to enjoy lunch, shop the gift shop Herbert Jones; Nathalie Chisolm Christ. Other supporters were Alma bers call “ole-time preachin’, prayin’, Grace will conclude the services Oct. ing a good, strong tune. I then wrote may true students be. Shop. and bid on silent auction items. (deceased), sponsored by son, Teddy Reid and Alethia Houser. praisin’ and singin’” this month during 27 at 11 a.m. with an original cantata, down some images having to do with This year’s Tea Room will be held The homemade desserts are the star 4. For those you send and who pre- Chisolm; Gertude Smith (deceased), The program involved two compo- Camp Meeting Time. “The Homecomin,’” by Betsy Trakas, teaching. I poured the lyrics into a pare their minds and hearts aright, Sept. 30 to Oct. 11, with the excep- of the show for many guests, but there sponsored by nephew Teddy Chisolm; nents: a family Bible study, breakfast Each Sunday in October, the ser- Union playwright. Various church Trinitarian form with a fourth stanza To teach the children everywhere the tion of Sunday, from 11:30 a.m. to 2 is also a large selection of lunch items Margaret Washington, sponsored by and fellowship Aug. 25 at 7:45 a.m., vice will be “country casual.” Begin- groups will share in the music. The ser- focused on teachers. All in 30 min- things that bring delight, p.m. The motto is “Funding through to choose from including shrimp and her daughter, Rose A. Barnes; Richard and worship, roll call and special com- ning Oct. 6 at 11 a.m., there will be an vice will be followed with a barbecue utes,” Thrailkill said. “It may not have We honor them and you, O Lord, for Fellowship,” with all proceeds benefit- grits, chicken salad, an Autumn salad Tisdale (deceased) sponsored by wife, mendations at 9 a.m. outdoor service (weather permitting) in luncheon in the fellowship hall. Reser- this great gift you give, lasting lyrical value, but the church That in our learning we become your ting Bethany’s local and global out- and peanut butter and jelly for the little May Tisdale; Edna Thompson, spon- Jeanett Scott was announcer for the Mark’s Park located below the church vations will be requir-ed. sang it with gusto, and the teachers children once again. reach ministries, including its daughter ones. Organizers said it is fun for the sored by her children; Elijah Thomp- event, and Dollie Thompson was coor- parking lot. Service music will be led For more information, call Grace at were blessed. – The Rev. Phil Thrailkill church Ashley Ridge Church, Meals entire family, and the money you spend son (deceased), sponsored by his dinator. Dr. Lee C. Bines is pastor. by Grace’s Gospel Grass. Other Sun- 864-427-1266. “What if we started a hymn-writing on Wheels, Habitat for Humanity, the goes to help many worthy causes. movement in the S.C. Annual Confer- Send us your hymn! Lowcountry Food Bank and many Bethany is located at 118 W. Third Buckhead UMC holds ‘Back to School Blessing’ for local elementary ence? Might not the spirit of our holy The Advocate welcomes your attempt more. South Street in Summerville. For more troubador Charles Wesley still be in at hymn writing. Send with your name, The Bethany UMC Fellowship Hall information, visit www.bethany-umc. Celebrating the opening of the tional moment led by Thelma Hudson, they render for children within the com- members were able to fellowship at our midst?” church and city to [email protected]. is transformed into an autumn dining com or call 843-873-1230. school year, the Outreach Committee lay leader, for all attendees, plus a spa- munity. this event after the committee members of Buckhead United Methodist Church ghetti, salad and sandwich meal. The faculty, staff and committee shared their gratitude. sponsored a “Back to School Blessing” Church members bid the school staff at Bells Elementary, Ruffin, Aug. 15. a successful academic year and thanked Trinity dedicates new Youth and Young Adult Building The celebration included an inspira- every staff member for all the services BLYTHEWOOD – Trinity United Methodist Church dren’s Hand Bell Choir will provide special musical Home and Trinity’s Counseling Center. In June, the is dedicating its new Youth and Young Adult Build- arrangements. Blythewood Salkehatchie Camp utilized the build- Read it. ing Sept. 29. Trinity was originally founded in 1887 and has ing as home base, while they worked in the com- The dedication will follow the 11 a.m. worship been located on the same parcel of land since the munity renovating poverty housing. Beyond church service and will be held in the new building with original founding. New buildings are not an ev- functions, the Youth Building will provide facilities refreshments served. eryday occurrence, and this dedication marks the for community programs such as the Boy Scouts The new building marks the culmination of a expansion of 126 years Trinity has served the Bly- and Girl Scouts. Use it. multi-year effort by the congregation to expand ser- thewood community. The building was designed by architect John vices available for both church activities, as well as By opening new doors, Trinity hopes the building Powell, of LTC Architects, and built by Mashburn the Blythewood community. S.C. Resident Bishop will allow the church to reach more people in the Construction. Dan Creed, of Blythewood was the Jonathan Holston will be the guest speaker for this Blythewood community. engineer, and designed the spacious new parking Connect. important day. The building opened in May with the first pro- lot. The building is 8,020 square feet, and cost $1.4 Trinity Youth Band, Chancel Choir and Chil- gram, a Grief Seminar sponsored by Shives Funeral million dollars. Wesley UMC Charleston celebrates 140 years CHARLESTON – Wesley United Methodist Church pastor of New Fourth Baptist Church, will Nov. 17 at the church. Ann McGill, morning news is celebrating its 140th anniversary Nov. 13-15 and be preaching. Services begin at 7 both nights. anchor for WCSC-TV Channel 5, will be the guest 17 with special services and a banquet with S.C. State The public is invited to the anniversary banquet speaker. Sen. Bakari Sellers (D-90th) as guest speaker. Friday, Nov. 15, at 7 p.m. at Charleston Air Force Wesley UMC was founded in November 1873 out Services begin Nov. 13 with the Rev. J. Jeannette Base. Tickets are $30 and must be purchased by Oct. of group that worshipped in the basement of what was Cooper, pastor of Mount Zion UMC, Kingstree, as 27. Call Sharon Scott at 628-2894 for information. then St. James Methodist Episcopal on Spring Street. guest preacher. On Nov. 14, Dr. Francis Covington, A special worship service will be held at 11 a.m. The Rev. Anna Graham Miller is Wesley’s 30th pastor. 1. Participate in the “Five for $25 Subscrip- member to come speak at your church. Wesley Hollywood marks 122 years with milestone events tions” program. 6. Steer people to the Advocate’s website 2. Participate in “Free Advocate for New (www.advocatesc.org) or to the Advocate’s HOLLYWOOD – As the month of the church’s theme for this memorable Wesley as they mark this milestone in Picnic and Fun Day Members.” Facebook or Twitter page (@advocatesc) October approaches, the Wesley United occasion: Serving, Living and Giving: the life of the congregation with numer- Oct. 21-25, 7 p.m. nightly, Fall 3. Enroll your congregation in an online or 7. Advertise a job opening, church service, Methodist Church family anticipates a A More Excellent Way! ous activities planned for the entire Revival print “Advocate Church Plan” and receive business or event in our pages. great celebration of 122 years of mis- Church members are excited about month: Oct. 26, Wreath Laying Ceremony discounted pricing. 8. Send the Advocate your church’s news, 4. Encourage your members to buy an events or high-res photos. Deadline is the sion and ministry in the rural costal how God is using them in this com- Oct. 5, Carolina Youth Development, Oct. 27, 4 p.m., the Anniversary individual subscription to the Advocate. 10th of every month for the next month’s community of Hollywood. munity to provide vital and energetic A Day of Service for the Congregation Worship Service 5. Invite the Advocate editor or a board edition. Email [email protected]. The theme for 2013 Annual Confer- worship, Christ-centered ministries and Oct. 12, 6-9 p.m., Youth Night: The For questions or directions, call ence resonated in the heart of those life-changing outreach and missions. Ultimate Challenge 843-889-8415 or email the Rev. Keith www.advocatesc.org | [email protected] | 888-678-6272 who were in attendance and inspired All are welcome to celebrate with Oct. 19, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Church Hunter at [email protected]. Page 26, October 2013 Education & Youth Advocate Advocate Education & Youth Page 27, October 2013 Wofford’s Natasha Rudy aspires to be ‘that person’

Nastasha Rudy wants to be “that person” – the go- After interning this summer at the National Insti- to person. tute for Mathematical and Biological Syntheses, Rudy While it may sound as if the Wofford senior is also is considering expanding her role into research of planning on going into politics, or maybe becoming genetics. the CEO of a multinational company, her ambitions “I think by accomplishing this, I will help others by are much more basic, but no less important – as basic working to gain more information about unanswered as the core of life, genetics. questions,” Rudy said. Rudy, who recently was named the 2013-14 J. Lacy Wofford has provided her with a good foundation McLean Independent College Student of the Year by for her aspirations, she said, including the opportu- the South Carolina Independent Colleges and Univer- nity for the internship, which allowed her to bring “a sities Inc., plans to be a genetics counselor. unique perspective to the table as I pursue a career “What draws me toward the profession is knowing in genetics. I honestly believe that the opportuni- that such small changes at the genetic level can impact ties Wofford offers made me a strong competitor a family’s life in such a large way,” says Rudy, a na- for the position, and the skills that I have learned tive of Greenwood, where her interest in the field was Already a recipient of SCICU’s Sterling L. Smith Scholarship here allowed me to handle the work that my mentor Photos by Jessica Connor fueled by high school field trip to the Greenwood Ge- last year, Wofford’s Natasha Rudy received her latest honor expected. Having that experience this summer showed Welcome back, Columbia College students netic Center, an organization dedicated to “advancing after being selected from applicants from all 30 campuses in me that I will be capable of successfully handling the organization. Columbia College held its academic convocation at College Place UMC, Columbia, Sept. 18. Retired Bishop Ken Carder (center) spoke on “Stand Your Ground with Compassion,” the field of medical genetics and caring for families graduate-level workloads.” and the Columbia College Choir performed (right). Columbia College President Elizabeth Dinndorf (left) welcomed students, noting “there are endless opportunities for you.” impacted by genetic disease and birth defects.” them about testing options and connect them with She already has mastered the ability to immerse The Rev. Tiffany Knowlin, pastor of College Place UMC, told the crowd the church and students can be “a beacon of hope and a place of light in a world that is often dark.” “These changes are not necessarily caused by par- support groups. I will be able to be the person who herself helping others. She tutors fellow students in ents; they can happen by chance,” Rudy said. “I want can soothe someone who is struggling to understand genetics and calculus nightly, serves as a Wofford to be the person who is there to help educate families and cope with the implications of a genetic disease Ambassador and was selected as a member of the about certain conditions and to connect them to other or disorder or a birth defect by providing them with Leadership Team of Wofford’s Orientation Staff. Claflin University holds matriculation day convocation organizations that can provide support.” answers and a network of support.” She also serves her community as part of Wofford’s ORANGEBURG – Claflin President university surpassing the $68 million we run the risk of being blown away by technology, innovation, citizenship, Rudy, a double major in biology and mathematics Already a recipient of SCICU’s Sterling L. Smith Math Academy, a student-run outreach program that Dr. Henry N. Tisdale outlined a theme mark in a $96.4 million capital cam- the winds of change.” creativity, globalization and excellence. who has maintained a 4.0 GPA during her academic Scholarship last year, Rudy received her latest honor gives Wofford students the opportunity to mentor and of “vision, decision and progress” at the paign and successful accreditation At least one change unveiled at this To build on the achievements and career at Wofford, plans to seek a master’s degree in after being selected from applicants from all 30 strengthen the math skills of fourth- and fifth-graders. University’s Matriculation Day Convo- visits for two of its academic programs year’s convocation was Claflin’s re- contributions of the university, Tis- genetics counseling after graduation. campuses in the organization. She receives a $2,000 “To me, we aren’t just there to review multiplica- cation last month, an annual assembly – Tisdale warned against becoming freshed “visionary” branding campaign. dale said now is the time for Claflin “At this moment, I’m leaning toward being a clini- scholarship and will be recognized at a luncheon tion facts or to reiterate how to do conversions,” she that officially launches the new aca- complacent. Students and other convocation attend- to reflect on how higher education is cal genetics counselor,” she said. “This means I will Oct. 1 at Anderson University during the SCICU Fall said. “We are there to also show the students that we demic year. “This year, we will be having a year- ees were given drawstring bags featur- changing, what is driving that change be able to meet with patients and answer their ques- Board Meeting, which college presidents from around are one more person who believes that they can over- “Matriculation Day offers a great op- long conversation about the future of ing an updated logo centered on the and how the institution can differentiate tions about the origin of a genetic condition, inform the state will attend. come the challenges they face.” portunity each year for us to celebrate Claflin University,” he said. “Change is university’s tagline, “The World Needs itself from other institutions of higher our successes, to forge ahead and to in the air. Economic conditions contin- Visionaries.” learning. Among those decisions are chart our course for another academic ue to be challenging and unpredictable The refreshed branding campaign how to make education more affordable year in the history of this great univer- for everyone, especially higher educa- aims to offer a clearer focus and vision for parents and students, how to extend Fisher keynotes SMC’s 2013 convocation sity,” Tisdale said. tion. for the university, accentuating Claflin’s the university’s reach globally, and how Spartanburg Dr. David English Camak opened Tex- proceeded to give a quick overview of Jersey. She went on to earn a master’s While highlighting Claflin’s achieve- “We can no longer do business as “visionary” perspective in terms of to begin offering digital learning oppor- Methodist Col- tile Industrial Institute and welcomed her life, emphasizing the importance of degree and doctorate from Rutgers ments over the last year – including the usual. If we hold on to the status quo, leadership, service, research, success, tunities at Claflin. lege marked the the college’s first student, a 33-year-old students finding themselves. After her University and completed post-graduate official start of married man who lived around the cor- parents’ passing, her older sister took studies at University of California the 2013-2014 ner from the college’s first location. her in, and a high school teacher drove Los Angeles and the University of academic year “In spite of everyone telling Presi- her to school. She did well in high Utah. with its annual dent Camak to close down the college school, and was known as a “good kid” Over the years she served as a convocation cer- and quit, he persevered and 102 years and a “teacher’s pet” and graduated teacher, reading supervisor, principal, emony held Sept. Fisher later we are opening our doors to 525 from high school as the salutatorian of assistant superintendent, deputy super- 4. Dr.Phinnize new SMC freshman and 818 students her class. intendent of operations, chief of staff J. “Penny” Fisher, chair of the SMC overall,” Keith said. Fisher made sure she was on a path and most recently served for eight years Board of Trustees, served as keynote Fisher, a native of Virginia, opened for college. She received a bachelor’s as the superintendent of South Caro- speaker. her remarks by stating this was the most degree in post-secondary education and lina’s largest school district, the Green- Dr. Colleen Perry Keith, the seventh emotional speech she had ever deliv- graduated early from St. Paul’s College ville County School District, before president of SMC, commenced the ered and shared it was her very first in Virginia. retiring in May 2012 after a 43-year event and shared that on Sept. 4, 1911, time talking to college freshman. She In 1969 she became teacher in New career in education. Backpack Blessing From supply shopping to a new outfit for the first day of school, “back to school” can be quite overwhelming. Canaan UMC, Smyrna, has incorporated a new event this I Can! year to provide some comfort to parents and children during this hectic time. Canaan Fifth Grader Charlie Som- held its first-ever Backpack Blessing Aug. 25. Here, kids smile with their backpacks. payrac inspects his new “I Can” backpack tag at the 2013 Blessing of the Backpacks at Boone Hill LTSS Academy of Faith, Leadership UMC, Summerville. Par- ents, teachers and school to bring new opportunities administrators from the con- gregation joined Rev. Kelli COLUMBIA – Lutheran Theological ture study series. The resources will Taylor in offering prayers for Southern Seminary is launching a new include non-credit courses focused for students returning to classes in August. The theme of initiative for the school: the Academy the lay audience, as well as continu- the day, “I Can,” based on of Faith and Leadership. ing education programs for clergy and Philippians 4:13, proclaimed The academy will offer continuing church leaders. the good news that “I Can” education opportunities to equip both Plans are under way for a five-part do all things through Christ lay and clergy for their lifelong work as Bible study on Revelation. Dr. Charles who strengthens me. Photo by Karen Marie ministers of the Gospel. Sigel, emeritus professor at the semi- “The Academy of Faith and Leader- nary, is leading participants Tuesday ‘Reclaiming the Art of Preaching’ theme ship fills a need for the communities we evenings. Lay and clergy will study the serve, here in the Columbia, in the Eau book and discuss how the book related of upcoming Granville Hicks academy Claire neighborhood and in churches to the 1st-century audience and also Registration is going on now for The $100. around the region and beyond,” said Dr. what it means to us in the 21st-century Granville Hicks Leadership Academy Guest Speakers include Dr. Zan W. Clayton Schmit, seminary provost. world. Other events are in the planning for Laity and Clergy, set for Jan. 31 to Holmes Jr., Dr. William Bobby Mc- The academy seeks to provide stages. Feb. 1 at Claflin University. Clain, Dr. Henry N. Tisdale and Bishop resources that will equip women and The seminary is accepting feedback This year’s theme is “Reclaiming the Violet L. Fisher. men to be faithful leaders in the church. at www.ltss.lr.edu/afl. People may also Art of Preaching.” For more information: 803-535-5186 These resources will include various enroll for programming and sign up for Registration begins Sept. 17, and is or [email protected]. lectures, retreats, seminars and Scrip- email updates for future offerings. Page 28, October 2013 Education & Youth Advocate Advocate Education & Youth Page 29, October 2013 Foundations in Youth Ministry LTSS lecture John Wesley UMC hosts ‘Jesus’ family reunion’ VBS By Gerry Clinkscales about his God and family. The church Johnson, the children learned how participants used this verse as the foun- families working together can create by the Rev. Daniel Griswold by Branson GREENVILLE – John Wesley United dation for building the daily lessons, lasting and meaningful memories. The Methodist Church held its annual vaca- echoing what Joshua believed. The staff and children appreciated the time to explore tion Bible school June 17-20. “Jesus’ day one family time focus was on “we and care the women employed in help- Inspire, don’t hire Family Reunion, The Remix!” was the believe,” teaching that believing in God ing make this activity one that will be tarting a new ministry is hard. Part one of my thought here is to is trying to get out of. “Why can’t you ‘What is theme for this year’s event. collectively builds a family legacy. For remembered. So hard, in fact, that I’ve had ask yourself, “If I was a volunteer, get anyone? Is your ministry that bad?” Children, youth and adults partici- day two, the focus was “we encourage,” The culminating event for the VBS my head banging the wall a few what kind of person would I want to When speaking and communicat- Missional pated in a variety of classroom activi- teaching on encouraging each other and was the annual church picnic held June times, especially when it comes get involved with?” Do you have time ing (and this means writing a bit for ties, music sessions and crafts projects. giving each other hope. For day three, 23. This year’s theme for the picnic was Sto finding volunteers to become a youth to get to know people at the church? If the newsletter), tell people the “wins” During the four-day event, participants the focus was “we forgive,” teaching “A Juneteenth Celebration.” The event ministry team. the answer is, “No, I spend too much you’ve been having with whoever Leadership’ were able to celebrate being part of understanding and learning that for- was a gigantic family reunion celebra- God’s family, learning that this was giving each other is necessary, just as tion focusing on the roots of African I’ve been guilty of doing it the wrong time with the youth,” I think we have you’re working with. Show pictures of “What is Missional Leader- way (which I’m recognizing these something to work on. The best volun- smiling kids and adults, and tell people more than the normal family reunion. Christ has forgiven you. And finally on Americans and the emancipation of ship,” a public lecture and panel They explored roots as part of a biblical day four, the focus was on “we protect,” slaves in the United States. There was days). Basically, this way is done by teers you will ever find are the ones that about the letter you just received from discussion, will be offered for all rounding up a group of random church like you before they even volunteer. Johnny, who was bullied and found family, church family and immediate reaffirming the necessity of protecting plenty of food, games, fun and celebra- by Lutheran Theological Southern family. one another from bad influences is truly tion during this family fun-filled event. people who are free, giving them It would pay in the long run to have a unconditional support in your youth During the four-day event, participants were Seminary Friday, Oct. 18. “As for me and my house, we will love. And as for this church family, it be- tasks, watching them all come up with Corn Hole Tournament and watch “The ministry. Held in Stavros Hall, the lecture able to celebrate being part of God’s family, excuses to eventually stop doing what Game” (note: whatever one that is; I’m not saying that you need to go serve the Lord” (Joshua 24:15) was the The group art activity was a quilt, gan this event by serving the Lord first learning that this was more than a normal features Dr. Mark Lau Branson, weekly theme based on Joshua’s belief and thanks to Crystal Burch and Dee with morning service. family reunion. has been asked, and then in the storm depends on area) if you want to attract out and smile big if the ship is sinking. Homer L. Goddard Professor of of doing everything by oneself, hitting guys to your orbit. Or perhaps having I am saying that even when a ship is the Ministry of the Laity, of Fuller a deep dark place of exhaustion and in a family barbecue and inviting some sinking, sometimes it is good to stop Theological Seminary. St. Paul’s Waccamaw, Brown’s Chapel UMC team up for VBS that moment crying out in desperation church people you think would be cool and ask, “Is it really as bad as I think?” The lecture begins at 9 a.m. with to anyone who will hear, “I need help!” to hang out with. Lastly, a Girls Day God is always doing something a panel discussion following at St. Paul’s Waccamaw United Methodist Church, “always by loving.” I feel bad for everyone on church Out window shopping (while kind of good. Take a moment and think – what 10:15 a.m. Pawleys Island, teamed up with Brown Chapel UMC, Creative crafts and interactive Bible storytelling committees, all of whom likely want to stereotypical, seems to be popular) can is God doing through my community Attendees are encouraged to Murrells Inlet, for an Everywhere Fun Fair vacation took place in the church Youth Center. Special fea- help, but also have responsibilities at get the ladies chilling together. right now? read “Ecclesiology and Leader- Bible school this summer. tures included making volcanos and playing a human the church that keep them from swad- After that, second, ask yourself, “If Then tell everyone, and keep tell- ship in the Missional Church,” More than 100 children, youth and adult volunteers foosball game. dling you in their arms. I was a volunteer, what kind of activ- ing it. In time, you may find volunteers from “The Missional Church in came together for a neighborly good time as they The churches celebrated with an ice cream party at Have you been in that dark place? I ity would I choose to be involved in?” jumping in. Context,” ed., Craig Van Gelder focused on God’s welcoming love. the end of the week, and volunteers received Cracker have, and it is not fun at all. Personally, I want to be involved in the Griswold is youth director at St. (Eerdmans, 2007). VBS was held from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. the last week Jacks popcorn treats with a card that said, “Thanks for The good news is that there is a dif- most exciting, engaging, soul-deepen- Andrew By-The-Sea UMC, Hilton Head For more information, email Dr. of June. They began each night with a themed snack popping up to volunteer!” ferent strategy that has a better chance ing, inspiring event that God ever asked Island. Follow him on Twitter @Dan- Brent Driggers at brent.driggers@ supper that featured a different country, and attendees After VBS, children from both churches were of succeeding, but unfortunately, it still people to create. I don’t want to be in- nonhill or check out his blog, Daniel- lr.edu. enjoyed treats like fish ‘n chips, Scripture fortune invited to sing at St. Paul’s UMC, and the following starts with you, or in my case – myself. volved in a ministry that everyone else Griswold.Wordpress.com. cookies and mini-tacos. week, the youth of St. Paul’s worshipped with Brown Dinner flowed right into assembly with puppet Chapel UMC’s youth. Claflin breaks ground on new “Godwin” by the carnival tent, followed by lively Creative crafts and interactive Bible storytelling took place in Organizers said Everywhere Fun Fair was truly a Blessing the music including a favorite song “Njalo,” which means the church Youth Center. neighborly partnership and a fun time for all. book bags student housing complex On Aug. 18, Lee ORANGEBURG – Claflin University It will feature open gathering spaces, Road UMC, Taylors, St. John’s UMC welcomes has broken ground on a new student high ceilings, lots of natural light, a gathered to pray over a number of donated housing complex that features state-of- small multipurpose room for student school supplies new children, youth staffers the-art amenities geared toward groom- meetings and two fitness rooms. New earmarked for use in FORT MILL – Jennifer Mayes and N.C., who moved to Fort Mill to start a ing successful students and attracting plazas and courtyards will provide ad- area schools Brandon Galbraith are the newest staff family with husband, Corey. many more in the years to come. ditional outdoor gathering spaces for during the 2013-2014 school year. Led by members at St. John’s United Method- New youth director Galbraith made The new 64,000 square foot resi- students. Lee Road’s pas- ist Church. The church is gaining a new his way to Fort Mill after attending dence hall – which will establish a The building, designed with envi- tor, the Rev. Doug children’s ministry director and youth Winthrop University, Rock Hill. He is new gateway to the campus from Goff ronmental stability in mind by Lord, Gilliland, the church director. currently a teacher at Gold Hill Middle Avenue – will be comprised of two Aeck & Sargent Architecture, will make also prayed for all the teachers, adminis- Mayes will be leading the children’s School in Fort Mill, and looks forward three-story wings, one each for men use of natural daylight and energy- tration, staff and ministry. to serving at St. John’s. and women, with accommodations for efficient heating, ventilation and air students. “I look forward to working with the “I am very excited about becoming approximately 200 students in two- and conditioning systems, thereby reducing children and families of St. John’s and a part of St. John’s family, and I am four-bedroom suites. Each wing will the consumption of electricity and gas. making this ministry the best that it can looking forward to great things with the feature its own elevator, laundry room, High-efficiency plumbing fixtures will be,” said Mayes, a native of Asheville, youth group,” Galbraith said. computer lab and informal study areas. reduce water consumption, and the use The wings, which will have card ac- of regional and recycled materials in cess locks accessible only by residents the building’s construction will help of each wing, will be connected by a conserve natural resources. shared student commons area that will It is scheduled to be completed in include the main entry to the building. August 2014.

Landrum’s ‘sweet’ back to school On Aug. 19, faculty and staff at O.P. Earle Elementary School, Lan- drum, received a warm and “sweet” welcome back to school from the Landrum UMC Mission Team. The faculty and staff were treated to homemade cakes, cookies, coffee and juice as they returned to the school year. The members of Lan- SMC students show true service in action drum UMC also provided backpacks Having grown up in a politically correct universe, with multiculturalism as a given, this with supplies for those students in year’s freshman class at Spartanburg Methodist College was well suited to give back need. The faculty and staff were very to the Spartanburg community Aug. 17 with the college’s annual Freshman Day of appreciative of the morning brunch. Service. For the 12th consecutive year, entering freshman, divided into small groups The mission team just wanted to let led by a faculty/staff member and two sophomores, were sent to schools, churches, them know they have been praying soup kitchens, shelters assisting children and animals, and assisted living centers to and continue to pray for them and assist with cleaning, painting, cooking, socializing, landscaping and any other tasks the students and are there as a sup- the service organization might need. Here, SMC students create bowls from basic port team throughout the year. clay at the Chapman Cultural Center for Hub City Empty Bowls 2013. Page 30, October 2013 Vacation Bible School Advocate Advocate Obituaries Page 31, October 2013

Ruth Deloris Adams with burial in St. George Cemetery, St. Magnolia Robinson Williams KINGSTREE – Ruth Deloris Adams, George. Obituary Policy SUMTER – Magnolia Robinson Wil- ‘Everywhere Fun Fair’ wife of the Rev. Gary Bruce Adams, Memorials may be made to Bethel The Advocate prints death notices of liams, mother of the Rev. J. Elbert clergy and their immediate families died Aug. 31, 2013. Rev. Adams is UMC, P.O. Box 407, Walterboro, SC and laypersons who have served on Williams, died Aug. 24, 2013. Rev. Wil- a retired member of the S.C. Annual 29488. conference boards and agencies or liams pastors Marion Parish, Marion. Bible school Conference of The United Methodist Mrs. Kinsey is survived by her who work for the S.C. Conference of Funeral services were held Aug. 28 daughter and two sons. The United Methodist Church. By Barbara Horton Church. at Neal Jones Auditorium, Morris Col- Funeral services were held Sept. 3 at lege Campus, with burial in Hillside ANDERSON – Zion Kingstree UMC, with burial in King- Virginia Hardman Peterson Ave., Chesnee, SC 29323. Memorial Park. United Method- stree Memorial Gardens. GREENVILLE – Virginia Hardman Mrs. Thompson is survived by her Mrs. Williams is survived by her two ist Church held its Memorials may be sent to Trio Peterson, grandmother of the Rev. Har- two sons and daughter. daughters and two sons. vacation Bible school UMC, 39 Front St., Salters, SC 29590; old Gordon, died Aug. 18, 2013. Rev. July 24-26, with a to Alzheimer’s Association, 4124 Clem- Gordon is the pastor of the New Francis celebration July 28. son Blvd. Suite L, Anderson, SC 29621; Brown United Methodist Church, The theme for this or to Amedisys Hospice of South Charleston. Wofford named year was “Every- Carolina, 500 Pamplico Hwy. Suite D, Funeral services were held Aug. 24 where Fun Fair,” and Florence, SC 29505. at John Wesley UMC, with burial in the children learned Mrs. Adams is survived by her hus- Resthaven Memorial Gardens. ‘Up-and-Comer,’ best value how other cultures band, son and two daughters. Mrs. Peterson is survived by her and places loved and Zion children learn about God all around the world. daughter. by U.S. News Sparkle and pizzazz at Kinard worshiped God. William R. Burnett Kinard UMC, Ninety Six, got a special treat at their late summer Bible school when “The The countries ing Zacchaeus, and how God sent an ANDERSON – William R. Burnett, Nancy Popplewell Washington and Lee University, the Great Bobbydini” made an appearance. Little did the children and youth know that inside studied were Japan, Australia and angel to Cornelius to get a message father of Beth Treaster, died Aug. 21, College continues the costume was their very own pastor, the Rev. Bobby Gilbert. Gilbert and other adults led YORKSHIRE, England – Nancy Pop- University of Richmond, Middlebury Mexico. Godwin Merrifeather, tour to Peter and invite him to his house. 2013. Mrs. Treaster is the wife of the the “Everywhere Fun Fair” in daily skits and live performances of Bible stories, teaching plewell, mother of Sarah Smith, died to be ranked among College, Centre College, Sewanee- guide, stayed busy “flying” to take They learned that you can be friends Rev. Fred Treaster, pastor of the Gray more than 60 children, youth and adults to be good neighbors to people locally and around Sept. 1, 2013. Mrs. Smith is the wife of University of the South and the world. Throughout the week, under a big tent in the church social hall, the group learned part in the fun video or talking to the with people from other cultures. Court-Trinity Charge. the Rev. Randy Smith, pastor of Little top national liberal Davidson College. to be friendly, giving, bold, forgiving and welcoming. Money and canned goods were col- kids with Telly Ticket. The children The concluding activity for Friday Funeral services were held Aug. River United Methodist Church, Little lected throughout the week for the Soup Kitchen in Greenwood County. Kinard has plans for Wofford is the only South Carolina made crosses, door hangers, kites and night was eating “gutter ice cream.” 26 at M. J. “Dolly” Cooper Veterans arts institutions several other family and youth events throughout the coming year. River. institution on the “best value” and other fun items in crafts. They loved Church members said the celebra- Cemetery. SPARTANBURG, S.C. – Wofford “up-and-comers” lists. the music and dancing. Discovery tion was great, with the children Memorials may be made to Interim Roy William Smith College is a “best value” and one of “While there is so much more time included making an exploding coming in singing «Jesus Loves the Hospice, 155 Deacon Tiller Court, Dun- SPARTANBURG – Roy William Smith, the “2014 Up-and-Comers” among to any institution than college volcano, rain and waves. Little Children,» waving their flags can, SC 29334. father of the Rev. Traci Smith Bennett, national liberal arts colleges, rankings, there is an element of Storytellers brought the children from the countries. The children Mr. Burnett is survived by his wife, died Aug. 22, 2013. Rev. Bennett is the nominated by peer institutions for reaffirmation to these rankings,” back to biblical times to talk about seemed very interested in learning Edith West Burnett, and daughter. chaplain at Piedmont Hospice. U.S. News & World Report’s 2014 Wofford President Nayef H. Samhat Sarah and Abraham, Jesus forgiv- about God all around the world. Funeral services were held Aug. 25 edition of “America’s says. “To be a Lloyd Clifford Jones Sr. at Petty Funeral Home, followed by Best Colleges,” best value for OXFORD, Ga. – Lloyd Clifford Jones burial with full military honors in Ever- released Sept. 10. our students and Sr., brother of the Rev. Angelin Sim- green Memorial Gardens. Wofford also considered among mons, died Aug. 28, 2013. Rev. Sim- Memorials may be made to the Food ranks 65th among the most promising mons is a retired member of the S.C. Pantry, Cannon’s Campgound United the 248 national and innovative Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church, 3450 Cannons liberal arts colleges colleges in the Methodist Church. Campground Road, Spartanburg, SC on the “best nation is certainly Funeral services were held Sept. 7 29307. colleges” list. an honor, and at Wesley UMC, Ladson, with burial in Mr. Smith is survived by his daugh- Wofford is tied this recognizes Cherry Hill Cemetery, Ladson. ter and two sons. for sixth among the the outstanding Mr. Jones is survived by his son and Kingdom Rock at First, Clover 10 national liberal teaching and daughter. arts colleges listed transformative In July, First UMC, Clover, held vacation Bible school with a theme of Kingdom Rock. First Mildred Nash Thompson hosted approximately 70 children and approximately 30 volunteers each night. The church CHESNEE – Mildred Nash Thompson, as “up-and-comers” noted for their experiences students have here at said the event was a “huge success” with lots of learning, games and music. Octavia Weathers Kinsey mother of the Rev. Bill Thompson, died “promising and innovative changes Wofford.” WALTERBORO – Octavia Weathers Aug. 11, 2013. Rev. Thompson is the in the areas of academics, faculty, For full information on the U.S. Kinsey, great-grandmother of the Rev. pastor of Fairmont United Methodist student life, campus, or facilities.” News rankings, go to: Photo by of Austin Bond Justin Ritter, died Sept. 13, 2013. Rev. Church, Spartanburg. Colleges on the list are cited most http://colleges.usnews. GSP holds ‘praise party’ VBS rankingsandreviews.com/best- The Kingdom at Belin Ritter is the pastor of the Plum Branch Funeral services were held Aug. 15 often by college presidents, provosts CROSS – Greater St. Paul United and averaged about 65 people a day. Charge, McCormick. at Chesnee UMC. and admissions deans who were colleges Belin UMC, Murrells Inlet, hosted a Kingdom Rock-themed vacation Bible school July 21- Wofford continues to be included Methodist Church held its vacation It was a very successful week and all 24. Directed by Colleen Lewis, many adult and youth volunteers made it an incredible week Funeral services were held Sept. 16 Memorials may be made to Chesnee asked by the publication to identify Bible school July 15-19. The theme was participants left feeling like they have a for children as they had fun and learned more about God. Children ages 4 through fifth at Bethel United Methodist Church, UMC Building Fund, 302 N. Carolina up to 10 up-and-coming schools in in national commercial college “Praise Party: Let’s Have a Fish Fry.” better understanding of why the fish is grade attended, with 143 total children attending. More than two dozen youth helped, plus their U.S. News ranking category. For guide books. Earlier this year, the The week’s lessons were all based representative of Christ and Christian- many adults. Wofford, that category is national college was listed among the on Scriptures that dealt with Jesus’ ity. Members said it was truly a praise liberal arts colleges. The institutions country’s best institutions in The parables and miracles that involved fish party; each day was filled with fun, eBook now available! are ranked in descending Princeton Review’s 2014 edition of and the disciples becoming fishers of excitement, prizes and learning. Children and youth of Clinton UMC order based on the number of its annual college guide “The Best men. The lessons, meals, decorations The week was an opportunity for nominations they receive. Among 378 Colleges,” which also recognized and crafts all were related to fish. The congregants and members of the com- make VBS a time to focus on missions the other colleges on the list are it as 19th for “Best Science Lab teachers structured their lessons around munity to understand their relationship Vacation Bible school is always a a mission mindset that would stay with only $7.99 Berry College, Hendrix College, Facilities.” Wofford was among the five Scriptures from Matthew and John. with Christ and their responsibility to time for fun, food and fellowship, and them for years to come. Roanoke College and the University top 120 colleges and universities Each day had its own theme and color the community as Christians. the 2013 VBS at Clinton United Meth- It was determined that during the of Richmond. in the country – and the highest- odist Church, Salley, was no exception craft time, the children and youth would The college is 27th among the 40 ranked South Carolina institution to that rule. dedicate a few minutes each evening national liberal arts colleges on the – in Forbes’ “America’s Top Colleges” However, this year the focus was to filling “blessing bags” with non- Order hard copy “best value” list, “Great Schools at list. The 2014 Fiske Guide to Colleges Loads of fun! slightly different. As church pastor the perishable toiletries and snacks that the and eBook online Great Prices.” The list is determined released recently also includes Children at Trinity Rev. Butch Blackwell said, “Over 70 children themselves would deliver later by a formula that includes the Wofford, which also is included UMC, Aiken, sing and at AdvocateSC.org children and youth of our church and to their homeless brothers and sisters at college’s academic quality and in the guide’s “Small Colleges and dance as Kingdom or call Universities Strong in Business” Rock at Vacation community had a great week and took the Oliver Gospel Mission in Columbia. the net cost of attendance for a Bible School comes home not only some pretty cool craft The children responded by completing 888-678-6272x335 student who receives the average listing targeted for pre-professionals. to an end. More than projects, T-shirts and Bible verses they nearly 200 blessing bags. level of need-based financial aid. Wofford also is again included in The 70 children took part. submitted to memory, but they also On July 21, Young and the young Other institutions on the list include Insider’s Guide to the Colleges 2014 Activities ranged Amherst College, Barnard College, edition. from entertainment carried with them a joyful feeling of people headed to the Oliver Gospel by radio personalities knowing they are making a difference Mission, where they distributed the For more information, contact: to pizza parties and in the life of others.” blessing bags to the homeless. Young The Office of Admission, Wofford College, Spartanburg, S.C. playing on inflatables. During the planning stages of VBS said it was quite a meaningful day. Diane Thompson www.wofford.edu/admission | 864-597-4130 | [email protected] Kingery spearheaded 2013, event chair Glenda Young felt it VBS 2013 will long be remem- Fall Hospitality Day is October 26 the Bible school critical that the children build a memory bered, as will the hard work, efforts and Early Decision Application Deadline is November 1 team. of something lasting, as well as develop prayers that made this week possible. Page 32, October 2013 Seniors Advocate Advocate Page 33, October 2013

Wrinkles in Paradise SALT older adult fun day Resource Center Trigger brings fun, awareness to Grace Children attending vacation set for November Bible school at Grace UMC, by Wanda Lane by Betty Stalnaker North Augusta, got a special treat recently – a visit from Registration going on through Oct. 24 Trigger, a rescue dog from My father’s garden Journey 101 the National Brittany Rescue, WEST COLUMBIA – SALT! – Sea- ter by Oct. 24 because space is limited; and his human, Lynn Ealey. y father was always a characteristics that only with the same soned Adults Live Laugh and Love the fee is $12. he “Journey Participant’s Guides, Trigger and Ealey visited farmer. Despite the fact tender care did he cultivate the people Together – is the acronym for an annual The day includes a songfest, door 101: Know- the three Leader three separate classes and the church office staff, plus that he left his native around him. Following Jesus’ example, gathering for older adult United Meth- prizes, a mission moment and a hearty ing, Loving Guides, the Daily Ozarks to enlist in the with unconditional love and the gentlest odists in the Midlands. lunch to follow the program. Oliver came back that Sunday for and Serv- Readings, the Preview Fifth Sunday. They talked to MMarine Corps during WWII and to live of touch, did he evaluate and plant, till The event will feature a program Gospel Mission will be this year’s mis- ing God” three-part Book and the three- T children and parents about ever after in the mesh of suburbia, his and monitor, water and watch those he that is jam-packed with entertainment, sion focus, and a monetary offering will course is designed to DVD set. (Age: YAS.) therapy dogs and how they heart never lost the rhythm of plant- loved. with Matthew 5:13 as the theme for the be taken up for the mission. create environments can help. “I’m not sure who ing, tending and watching the (usually) Inevitably, time erased the vigor and morning: “You are the salt of the earth. Program guests include the Rev. where people experi- Journey 101: enjoyed it more – Trigger or satisfying result of his efforts. agility with which he gardened, but not But if the salt loses its flavor, how can Thom Jones, Michael Shull, Tom ence growth and sup- Knowing God the children! What a wonder- The daily cycle of rush hour traf- his enthusiasm. His garden shrank to it be made salty again? It is no longer Brunson, Kathy Rish and Amy White. port as they engage (DVD1329CL) ful experience,” Ealey said. fic and occasional gridlock could not containers confined to the entryway and good for anything except to be thrown For information or to register, con- in the pathway to 1. Receiving Christ Trigger is a rescue dog from dislodge the cycle of the farm residing porch, but these he tended with no less out and trampled by people.” tact Flo Johnson, at 803-796-8014 or discipleship. (21:29) 2. Compre- the National Brittany Res- cue. He became a registered intrinsically within him. diligence, care and watchfulness than Brookland United Methodist Church, [email protected], or Suzy Speas at Explore the good hending Christ›s Naturally, the size and scope of his his manse in Maryland. West Columbia, will host this event 803-798-5350, ext. 14, or education@ therapy dog in April, so is news of the Bible and Teachings (17:44) 3. still in the novice category, garden changed as his life evolved. As a After Mama’s death, Daddy’s garden Thursday, Nov. 7. Attendees must regis- ashlandumc.com. discover Bible study Learning the Scrip- but learning a little more with boy, his family farmed 40 acres. When was whittled down to a shelf in a sun- tools and resources to tures (21:10) 4. Study- each visit. In addition to visit- our family lived in a small tract house filled apartment. His focus became or- deepen your understanding of God and ing the Scriptures (23:31) 5. A Study of ing VBS, he has visited in- in the suburbs of St. Louis immediately chids and amaryllis which he cared for, the Scriptures. Learn spiritual practices Christian Ethics (25:17) 6. The Person patient rehabilitation hospitals after the war, Daddy grew vegetables fussed over, and marveled at. When I that will help you fall more in love with and Work of the Holy Spirit (22:08) and an assisted living facility. with an after-the-fact victory garden. In couldn’t be with him, he updated me on God as you grow in your relationship Virginia, he terraced a steep side yard their latest stunning display of growth with God and others. Understand the Journey 101: Loving God with an amazing display of flowers that or blossom. biblical context for service that will en- (DVD1330CL) bloomed from early spring to stunt- Now Daddy’s orchids and amaryllis- able you to share your time and spiri- 1. The Nature of God (23:58) 2. Ex- ing frost. In Maryland, Daddy grew es reside with me. Their beauty reminds tual gifts with others. periencing the Love of God (20:46) 3. expansive and, in addition to his flower me of God’s love, the rhythm of the The Transforming Love of God landscaping and his vegetable garden, farm and the rewards that come if I tend Journey 101 (25:50) 4. Choosing to Trust God›s he branched into fruit farming with a carefully, monitor lovingly and savor (DVD1329CL=) Love (22:32) 5. The Love of God in the mini-orchard of five trees. completely the people and plants I love. Author: Cartmill, Carol/Kirby, Jeff/ Sacraments (24:28) 6. The Love of God But beyond the mere cycle of farm- Kirby, Michelle. as the Mark of the Church (21:15) ing, Daddy was imbued with other Lane is a member of Church of the Journey 101: Knowing, Loving attributes of living close to the land. Palms UMC in Bluffton, where she and Serving God is a three-part basic Journey 101: Serving God Farming cultivated in him love for and serves as worship chair. She also writes faith course that helps to answer these (DVD1331CL) faith in the Unseen Hand, attention to a senior life style column, “Wrinkles questions as it guides participants on 1. How and Why We Serve God small details and joy in the miracle of in Paradise,” for The Island Packet in the journey of growing as a Christian. (21:17) 2. Serving with Time (22:05) 3. life. Respect for hard work and the im- Hilton Head and has published a book The goal? Becoming a deeply commit- Generosity (17:39) 4. Spiritual Gifts portance of patience naturally followed by the same title. She can be reached at ted follower of Jesus Christ. The three (13:39) 5. Evangelism (21:32) 6. Serv- culminating in the reward – the beauty [email protected], www.facebook. studies are grounded in 15 core traits of ing God through Social Service (14:21) of vegetable, fruit or flower. com/WrinklesinParadise or www.twit- a deeply committed Christian – traits The S.C. Conference Resource Cen- So innate in my father were these ter.com/wrinklesthebook. that paint a picture of what it looks like ter is your connection to VHS tapes, to follow Jesus Christ with increasing DVDs and seasonal musicals. We are passion and dedication. here to serve your church family. This Leader Kit offers everything To reserve resources, call 888-678- needed to lead this study, including one 6272 or visit www.umcsc.org/resource each of these components: the three center.

Join us for our special events

Support Our Harvest Hope Food Drive Oct. 1-31, Lobby Area , 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Alzheimer’s Caregiver Support Meeting 2100 Twin Church Road Oct. 9, 4-5 p.m. Blessing of the Animals Florence, SC Oct. 17, Lawn area in front of the 843-664-0700 Chapel, 10:15 a.m. Chico’s Fashion Show Oct. 28, 5-7 p.m. Patio Homes • Independent Living Genesis Rehab Seminar “ How Do I Apartments • Assisted Living Suites • Maintain Being Independent” Alzheimer’s Care Center ADVERTISE HERE Oct. 29, 11:00 a.m. Email [email protected] or call 803-786-9486, ext. 338, to discuss. www.methodist-manor.com Page 34, October 2013 Upcoming Events Advocate Advocate International Bible School Lessons Page 35, October 2013

September Oct. 14 – Columbus Day Hispanic Heritage Month Oct. 18-19 – Bazaar, Chapin UMC, (Sept. 15-Oct. 15) Chapin. Wisdom and guidance from Genesis

Sept. 28 – Family Fun Day, Rehoboth Oct. 18-20 – Lake Junaluska’s Choir UMC, Leesville, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Music Weekend. www.lakeju- by the Rev. Angela Ford Nelson naluska.com/choirmusic. I can still remember him saying: “Ford, As I ponder the family drama that the text for this week (again and again), Sept. 28 – Fall Festival, Wesley UMC, Oct. 6 York. Oct. 20 – Laity Sunday A Promise of Land you’ve got to learn to do a good job unfolds between Genesis 21:8-16 and I struggled to readily make a connec- Lesson Scripture: Genesis 12:1-7, 13; fast!” God’s faithfulness to Abraham in spite tion with this man who schemed with Sept. 30-Oct. 11 – Autumn Tea Room Oct. 20 – Homecoming, St. John UMC, 15:7-21; 17:8 His “words of wisdom” stayed with of it all, I find myself singing the words his mother, deceived his blinded father, Rembert, 10 a.m. Rev. Angela and Gift Shop/Fresh Market, Key Verse: Genesis 15:18 NRSV “On me through high school, college and as of truth made popular by singer Smokie tricked his twin brother Esau out of his Marshall, speaker. 803-537-9342. Bethany UMC, Summerville, lunch that day the Lord made a covenant I worked my way up the corporate lad- Norful, “God is able and He won’t birthright and then he skipped town! served daily 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. der. In business, I learned the value of fail!” Even though Abraham and Sarah And what amazed me the most is that Oct. 20-22 – Revival, St. John UMC, with Abram, saying, ‘To your quickly planning the work and working failed to wait on the timing and the pur- he slept soundly enough to fall asleep Rembert, 10 a.m. Sunday; 7 p.m. descendants I give this land, from the plan. While planning and working poses of God, and he bore a child with on a rock and dream. I could never do October Chalk labyrinth Monday and Tuesday. 803-537- the river of Egypt to the great Hispanic Heritage Month 9342. river, the river Euphrates.’” quickly made me an effective corporate his servant Hagar, God never failed such a thing, could I? (Sept. 15-Oct. 15) Participants of Liturgical Arts Week walk the labyrinth praying at First UMC, Conway. citizen, these same skills did not enable to bless them. Even though Sarah’s Like the millions of viewers who The weeklong camp for children explored many areas of art and music used to en- Several years ago, I was blessed to hance worship. The labyrinth was drawn by Tim Whitten, director of Christian educa- Oct. 25-27 – S.C. UMW Annual Meet- worship with the John Wesley United me to be a faithful kingdom citizen. jealousy led to Hagar and Ishmael’s have made reality television so popu- Oct. 5 – Semi-Annual Yard Sale, St. tion at First, using sidewalk chalk. The public is invited to stop by to walk and pray the ing, Bethel UMC, Spartanburg On the contrary, I soon realized that eviction, God turned their momentary lar, it is easier to sit back and recoil John UMC, Columbia, Proceeds Methodist Church family in Greenville, labyrinth located in the Family Life Center parking lot at 1101 Fifth Avenue, Conway. where the pastor was the Rev. James walking by faith required me to trust in setback into a historical set up. God is at Jacob’s unfaithful actions than to will go to outreach ministries Oct. 26 – Fall Festival, Asbury Hills, 10 Friday. The service was a warm em- God’s plan and to wait on His timing. able and He won’t fail! carefully examine my own. Jacob’s a.m.-5 p.m. Oct. 6 – World Communion Sunday UMC, Great Falls. The Rev. Jason Oct. 1. www.pfeiffer.edu/riskma brace after a busy workweek. All was Abram and Sarai’s story shows us With only enough food and water to story yanks the covers from our own Everson, leader. nagement. that though the vision of God may last for a few days, Hagar and Ishmael sins, and reveals to us God’s amazing (offering) Oct. 31 – Reformation Day well until Pastor Friday shared the ser- mon theme: “What is Hindering You?” tarry, we must wait on it to be fulfilled wandered into the wilderness without grace. Although Jacob was blinded by Oct. 12 – Vendor Paradise, Aldersgate Oct. 6 – Centennial Celebration, Mount Oct. 11-13 – Children’s Sabbath I shifted anxiously in my seat as I at the appointed time (Habakkuk 2:3). the benefit of a tour guide or a GPS. envy, desire and trickery, God would UMC, Rock Hill, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Dearborn UMC, Great Falls. The realized that God was speaking to me Abram was 75 years old when he faith- Nevertheless, when they found them- not allow him to stay that way. In- Oct. 11-13 – Family and Friends Week- November Rev. Evelyn Middleton, preacher. again about my call to ministry. fully answered God’s call. Yet fifteen selves at the end of their rope, without stead, while Jacob slept, God began to end, Columbia College. 803-786- Oct. 12 – Fun Day, Mount Pleasant Native American Heritage Month What is hindering you from saying years later, though he and his wife had food, water or hope, our ever-present transform him by revealing a stairway Oct. 6 – Annual Women’s Day Program, 3663 or columbiasc.edu/osa. UMC, Columbia. Chicken barbe- received promising new names from God heard Ishmael’s voice and sent an leading from the very ground he rested cue, bake sale and fun. 803-351- Nov. 1 – All Saints Day yes to God’s call? What or who are you St. Paul UMC, Elliott, 3 p.m. Rev. God – Abraham (which means ancestor angel to encourage Hagar to hold on – on – straight to heaven (28:12). Just in Darlene Dellinger, speaker. Oct. 12 – Garage sale and hotdog 0975. placing in front of God’s priorities in lunch, Mill Creek UMC, Columbia, Nov. 1 – Commemorative Concert for your life? These questions posed in the of a multitude) and Sarah (which means her change was coming. In an instant, case this image was not enough to open Oct. 6 – Camp Meeting (Sundays in 7 a.m. to noon. Oct. 12 – Semi-Annual Yard Sale, St. All Saints Day by the Chancel sermon helped me realize that I needed princess), they were still waiting on a God opened Hagar’s eyes to a well Jacob’s blinded eyes, the Lord stood October), Grace UMC, Union, 11 John UMC, Columbia, Proceeds choirs of First UMC and Trinity to shake off what was hindering me and son of their own. flowing with water in the middle of the beside him and personally blessed him a.m. Weather permitting, service Oct. 12 – Parent Care: A Conference will go to outreach ministries. UMC, Conway, 7 p.m. accept God’s call. Can we blame Sarah for her anxious desert (21:19). with the promise made to Abraham and will be at Mark’s Park. for Senior Adults and Those Who Unlike me, when Abram was called laughter and mumbled question of dis- Do we believe that all things are Isaac (28:13-15) years before. When Ja- Nov. 1 – Community Praise and Wor- Care About Them, Pfeiffer Uni- Oct. 13 – Children’s Sabbath by God to leave country, kindred and belief, when she overheard Abraham’s working for the good (Romans 8:28), cob awoke, he was no longer blinded by versity, Deadline for registration is ship Night, Wesley UMC, York. Oct. 7-9 – Revival, Mount Dearborn his father’s house, and go to a land that dinner guest repeat the long awaited even when we are faced with the un- his shortcomings, but instead he could God would show him (Genesis 12:1), promise of God? Though her comments comfortable consequences of our deci- see that his place of refuge had become he did not let anything or anyone hinder were likely inaudible to Abraham, they sions? Just as God was with Ishmael none other than the house of God, and him. Instead, we see in the text that were heard clearly by God. As the Lord and Hagar in their wilderness, He is the gateway of heaven (28:17). Abram “took” his wife Sarai, his neph- often does, He responded to her ques- with us in ours – and He won’t fail. Although our names may not be ew Lot, his many possessions and all of tion with a question: “Is anything too Jacob, in our weakness we too have Oct. 27 Classified Advertisements his people; and he faithfully answered hard for the Lord?” (18:14) sinned and fall short of the glory of God’s call. Because Abram believed Years later, as Sarah held baby Isaac The Blessing Passes to Jacob God (Romans 3:23). Nevertheless, we the word of God, and did not allow his in her arms, I wonder if she again Lesson Scripture: Genesis 28:1, 10-22 are encouraged by Jacob’s testimony laughed aloud again and said to herself, Key Verse: Genesis 28:15 CEB “I am to remember that God’s grace is made Church Furnishings To place your ad, contact Allison today extraordinary riches or the uncertainty “this truly is the Lord’s doing and it is with you now, I will protect you perfect in our weakness (2 Corinthians at 888-678-6272 or [email protected]. of his impending future to hinder him, Subscribe today! God reckoned it to him (credited it to marvelous in our eyes!” (Mark 12:11) everywhere you go, and I will 12:9); and His grace still abounds (9:8). his account) as righteousness (15:6). Are you waiting on God’s promises bring you back to this land. I will Let us pray: “Amazing Grace! How Pew Upholstering – Reversible Cushions Classifed ads start at $19 per inch tall. go online to As Abram and his family moved to be fulfilled in your life? Have you not leave you until I have done sweet the sound that saved a wretch like New Pews – Pew Refinishing Website ads are also available Audio/Video Systems www.advocatesc.com in stages toward the promised land, given up hope, and only laugh at the everything that I have promised me! I once was lost, but now am found; www.churchinteriors.com (www.advocatesc.org). there were indeed times of uncertainty; distant memory of your dreams? Wait you.” was blind, but now I see.” Amen. or call Allison at however, when these times came, God on the Lord and be of good courage, and I really wanted to find something in Nelson chairs the Advocate board Deadlines are the 10th of the month asked Abram to do something simple He will strengthen your heart (Psalm common with Jacob because he was a and pastors Mount Zion UMC, Bishop- for the following month’s paper. 888-678-6272 – to look (13:14, 15:5, 15:18). To look 27:14). Your Isaac is on the way! twin and so am I; however, as I read ville. High Point, North Carolina around at the land, to look up toward 1-800-289-7397 heaven and to believe that God’s ex- Oct. 20 traordinary promise to make of him a Free Estimates A Blessing for Ishmael, Isaac great nation would indeed come to pass. Lesson Scripture: Genesis 21:12b-14, If you are discerning God’s call and NEW Steeple cleaning service Part-Time Director of Music/Organist 17-21; 26:2-5, 12-13 Trinity United Methodist Church, Charleston feeling challenged or hindered, or if you Key Verses: Genesis 21:12b-13 CEB New Pews • Pew Upholstering • Pew Refinishing • Pulpit are travel weary as you walk by faith, I “Do everything Sarah tells you to Furniture • Carpet • Steeples/Baptistries • Chime Systems encourage you my sisters and brothers • Stained Glass • Classroom Furniture • Office Furniture • do because your descendants will Trinity United Methodist Church, a historic downtown Charleston, to do as Abram did: “Look and live!” Social Hall Furniture • Budget & Project Analysis • Project SC, congregation, seeks a trained musician to become Director of Music/ be traced through Isaac. But I will (Numbers 21:1-9 & John 3:14). Management Organist. This part-time position will open in mid-October 2013. make of your servant’s son a great Qualified candidates will have demonstrated excellence in playing the nation too, because he is also your Nu-Idea organ as well as building, nurturing, and leading adult, children’s, and Oct. 13 descendant.” handbell choirs. Church Furnishings A Promise to Sarah Recently, on the way to an appoint- Sumter, South Carolina Key responsibilities: Direct the adult choir during Sunday worship, Lesson Scripture: Genesis 17:15-17, ment, I hastened to the Wendy’s drive- 1-800-922-0424 weekly choir rehearsals, and special worship services. Grow and direct the 18:9-15, 21:1-7 through to get a quick bite to eat. As children’s music ministry and handbell choir. Play the Hartman-Beaty pipe www.nu-idea.com Key Verse: Genesis 21:2 CEB “She organ for the Sunday 11:15 a.m. traditional service and for special worship Joshua (the young man at the window) became pregnant and gave birth to “Serving South Carolina’s churches since 1921” services during Lent, Holy Week, Easter morning, Christmas Eve, and as handed me my food, he also offered me needed. Be available for funerals and weddings/rehearsals. Continue to a son for Abraham when he was a friendly smile and three words that nurture college student interest in our adult choir. Reach out to choirs, old.” repositioned my attitude and repriori- soloists, and instrumentalists around the Southeast to sing/play at Trinity My first job was as a clerk at Kin- tized my overbooked schedule. He said, Miscellaneous on occasion. Make disciples of Jesus Christ. ney’s Shoes in Sumter. I was so proud “Ma’am, I heard God say: He is able!” Salary is commensurate with experience. Honorariums are typical for of my job and excited about earning Our lesson this week reminds us that weddings and funerals. E-mail a resume, cover letter, and references to money to buy school clothes to begin God is indeed able to turn our messes Union UMC, Hartsville District, wants to purchase [email protected] or mail them to Trinity United my senior year of high school. One into our messages; and to give us a about 50 of the old Cokesbury Hymnals (used). If Methodist Church, Attn: S/PPRC, 273 Meeting Street, Charleston, SC day, as I worked in the stock room, my crown of beauty for our ashes, the oil of 29401. there is a congregation with some extras who may manager called me into his office. He joy instead of mourning, and a garment want to help Union out, contact Steven Todd, pas- thanked me for my hard work; how- of praise instead of a spirit of despair tor, at [email protected] or 843-335-6676. ever, he encouraged me to work faster. (Isaiah 61:3). Page 36, October 2013 Other News Advocate UM pastor publishes new book on Lenten spiritual practices for action

A South Carolina United Methodist pastor has authored a new book on helping people embrace Lent as a time for merciful and com- passionate acts. “A World Worth Saving: Lenten Spiri- tual Practices for Action” is written by the Rev. George Hovaness Donigian, pastor of Monaghan United Methodist Church, Green- Bob Bowling, president of the Junaluska Associates, presents the check to Jack Ewing. ville. The book is designed for those weary of the Lent-as-usual appeal to give up chocolate Junaluska Associates donation to help and is a six-week study to help people grow in prayer life centered not on self but on others make Lambuth Inn renovation possible around us. By Melanie Threlkeld McConnell The donation, Ewing said, is a testa- “My intention was to address the laity and ment to the Junaluska Associates’ long- to link more closely our inner spiritual prac- LAKE JUNALUSKA, N.C. – The standing relationship with and support tices with our external actions of ministry,” birthday celebration may be winding of the lake and its mission. Donigian said. “A World Worth Saving: Lenten down for Lake Junaluska, but its 100th “For 45 years the Junaluska As- “A World Worth Saving” is published by Spiritual Practices for Action” is anniversary will long be remembered sociates have been in partnership with The Upper Room and is available from The written by the Rev. George Hova- thanks to a hefty donation by the Ju- Lake Junaluska Assembly to maintain Upper Room, Cokesbury and other online ness Donigian, pastor of Monaghan naluska Associates. United Methodist Church, Greenville. beautiful grounds and facilities. Over booksellers. It is available from The Upper Room, The donation, a $114,000 check $3.4 million have been contributed by Donigian is the husband of the Rev. Mary Cokesbury and other online book- presented recently to Jack Ewing, the Associates over this period,” Ewing Teasley, Greenville District superintendent. sellers. executive director and CEO of Lake Ju- said. “We are so grateful for this latest naluska Conference and Retreat Center gift of $114,000. It is the largest gift so during the Associates annual meeting, far toward the renewal of Lambuth Inn. will be used to help refurbish and add a We are excited to see what the future new conference center to Lambuth Inn, of Lake Junaluska holds and know that a historic structure built in 1921, whose it will be even greater because of the center section is listed on the National partnership of the Associates and Lake Register of Historic Sites. The popular Junaluska.” site offers panoramic views of the lake For more on Junaluska Associates: and the Blue Ridge Mountains. www.lakejunaluska.com/associates.

Our Call to Education

2013 LARCUM Bishops’ Dialogue Featured Speaker: Richard W. Riley

November 18, 2013 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m.

Trinity Episcopal Cathedral Columbia, SC

Dick Riley, the first two-term Governor of South Caro- lina (1979-1987) and the longest-serving U.S. Secretary of Education (1993-2001), is considered “one of the great statesmen of education in this (20th) century.” Following his public service, Riley returned to his law firm and established EducationCounsel, a mission-based consulting team that combines knowl- edge and experience in policy, strategy, law and advocacy to drive significant improvements in the U.S. education system. Riley has remained a public ambas- sador for education improvement in South Carolina, at the national level, and abroad. He co-chairs the National Commission on Teaching and America’s Future (NCTAF) and serves on the boards of several other education enti- ties, including his alma mater, Furman University. Registration is $15. Deadline is Nov. 11, 2013. Email [email protected] for registration form.