$2 April 2013 ‘More than just business’ Annual Conference 2013 to embrace better ways to serve, give, live

By Jessica Connor

FLORENCE – This June, when 2,000 South Carolina UMM walk in the light United Methodists gather in – Pages 18-19 Florence for Annual Confer- ence, they’ll be doing far more than the business of the church in this state. They’ll be engaging in a true mission opportunity: help- ing to put a dent in hunger. Set for June 9-12 at the Florence Civic Center, clergy and lay representatives from every church across South Carolina will pray, fellowship and ultimately vote on key church legislation for the com- ing year. This year’s theme, “A More Excellent Way: A Story of Serving, Giving and CROP Walk in Easley Living,” will feature preach- – Page 14 ing from new S.C. Resident Bishop Jonathan Holston, in Photo by Jessica Connor Index S.C. United Methodists will pack meals to help Stop Hunger Now at AC2013. See “AC2013,” Page 6 Classifieds...... 34 Local & District News...... 28-30 Education & Youth...... 20-23 Global News...... 27 Work begins on S.C. disaster response plan History...... 24 Ministries & Missions...... 12-15 By Jessica Connor United Methodist Church respond? with well-trained, well-prepared and Obituaries...... 31 Disaster response team members well-equipped volunteers who can be as Seniors...... 32-33 Upcoming Events...... 34 If a hurricane, tornado, nuclear ex- are fleshing out just that as they draft a helpful as possible no matter the situation plosion or terrorist attack were to strike comprehensive plan for the S.C. Confer- at hand. South Carolina tomorrow, how would The ence that will help the church respond See “Disaster Plan,” Page 9 Press association taps Advocate as ‘best paper’ in division Newspaper honored with three other awards The newspaper won first place in the press association’s an- @AdvocateSC | AdvocateSC.org nual news contest, Associate/Individual Member Division, as The Advocate has been named the best newspaper publication well as three other writing and photography awards. in its division by the S.C. Press Association. See “Advocate Awards,” Page 9 Going solar UMs, others champion new S.C. bill to allow third-party sales of solar energy By Jessica Connor legal to buy solar energy from non-utilities. A coalition of church, busi- Retired United Methodist ness, environmental and other pastor the Rev. Wiley Cooper groups across South Carolina and other United Methodists Photo courtesy of Columbia College – including a handful of United are among those advocating Methodists – are champion- Columbia College has used these solar panels (pictured) since 2011. the bill, which would enable Many are turning to alternative energy sources like solar, both to be ing state legislation to make it See “Solar Energy,” Page 8 more eco-friendly and to control costs. Page 2, April 2013 Advocate Advocate April 2013, Page 3 Dease to be new Hartsville DS WaterRock reaches out to Upstate through The Cabinet will awesome way,” Dease said. “I pray that In 2012, she became interim chair of welcome its newest through my ministry and service, the the Department of Philosophy and Reli- holistic wellness, coaching center member this sum- church’s mission will be the driving factor gion at Claflin University, Orangeburg. By Jessica Connor mer when Dr. Robin for all I do.” Dease has held a number of district Learn more Dease becomes the Dease felt the call to ministry while and conference positions: chair of the SPARTANBURG – United Methodists 864-764-0608 or www. S.C. Conference’s a student at Claflin University majoring Committee on District Superintendency- in the Upstate now have easier access WaterrockInstitute.org new Hartsville Dis- in elementary education. With a Master Charleston District, Conference Board to a place for Christian wellness and trict Superintendent. Dease of Divinity and a Doctor of Ministry in of Ordained Ministry, District Board of Hours/Location leadership development. WaterRock is actively seeking board Bishop Jonathan stewardship from Wesley Theological Ordained Ministry-Greenville District Open Monday through Friday WaterRock Institute, a nonprofit members from the S.C. Conference, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Holston appointed Dease to the position Seminary, Washington, D.C., Dease joined (2008-2012), Conference Connectional S.C. United Methodist Conference center for life enrichment in Western and is hoping to secure grants and other effective June 26. She replaces the Rev. the S.C. Conference in 1992 and was Table Task Force (2012-2012), chair of Center North Carolina with an appointed funds to establish a financial assistance 4908 Colonial Drive, Suite 207 Lillian Washington in Hartsville, who ordained an elder in 2001. She first served Continuing Education Covenant Groups United Methodist pastor at its helm, has fund so a wider variety of people in Columbia, SC 29203 completes her eighth year of service as as pastor of Wesley United Methodist (2008-2012) and District Study Task Force Deadlines: 10th of each month. opened a second office in Spartanburg. need can use their services. district superintendent in June. Church, Johns Island (1998-2008), fol- (2011-present). She represented S.C. at The office is housed in Central “This integration of leadership “I am humbled and most grateful lowed by John Wesley UMC, Greenville Southeastern Jurisdictional Conference Contacting Us United Methodist Church, which is development and wellness and bringing Telephone: 888-678-6272 or 803- for the opportunity to serve in such an (2008-2012). and General Conference 2012. 786-9486 providing the space free for Water- spirituality on board is really my life’s Fax: 803-735-8168 Rock’s ministry. Those involved say it passion, and it’s very exciting to be able E-mail: [email protected] gives the church a new, different way to to birth this organization,” Campbell- Submissions Let’s talk about sex … in church minister to people wherever they are in Robinson said. The Advocate encourages read- their lives: emotionally, spiritually and Dr. Paul Harmon, Spartanburg Dis- ers to submit for publication items Central UMC, Spartanburg, is providing free space for the newest office of of interest to South Carolina United Local congregation gets some ‘Courage for the Conversation’ physically. It is WaterRock’s first office WaterRock Institute, a nonprofit center for life enrichment run by United Methodist trict superintendent, said he thinks the Methodists. There is no charge for outside its headquarters in Asheville. WaterRock Spartanburg location will be By Jessica Connor and sexuality. pastor the Rev. Heidi Campbell-Robinson. running items involving activities WaterRock offers programs and a valuable resource. or announcements. Items should Sometimes those questions – and an- Conversation curious? Congregations considering holding services that address the whole person, “There is more recognition of the body connection, all through Jesus. “I hope we can use her skills and be submitted as far as possible in LUGOFF – Talking about sex can be swers – aren’t easy, Hiers said. advance of the event’s date or the similar Courage for the Conversation informed by the teaching and love ex- holistic nature of healing, and one of Beyond wellness, Campbell-Robin- experience to develop some training uncomfortable for many teens. So many “As is sometimes the case in the UMC, date of requested publication. Since discussions for their youth are encour- pressed in Jesus Christ. Those services the things I say in our mission is our son often works with clergy who want opportunities in the district in the focus there is no charge for these items, questions swirl: Should I wait? Is this as the Book of Discipline states, some- aged to check out the conference they appear in the newspaper on a include wellness, coaching, pastoral services address the whole person,” to further develop their time manage- areas offered by the WaterRock Insti- safe? What does the Bible say? Am I a bad times we have to in Christian love agree website. Go to www.umcsc.org, scroll space-available basis. Deadlines are down and click on the “Courage for the counseling and spiritual direction, as Campbell-Robinson said. “There has ment, hold more effective meetings or tute (creativity, leadership, wellness the 10th of each month for the follow- person for thinking this? to disagree,” Hiers said. “As long as we’re Conversation” box. well as leadership development for been a lot of growth and increased enhance some of their other skills. She and spirituality),” Harmon said. “More ing month’s paper. But getting those answers can come at all seeking God’s will and God’s grace To talk further, email Joens at cljo- clergy and others. understanding that there isn’t just one also does a lot of pastoral counseling immediately, though, it’s great to have a price. and making choices we hope are pleasing Advertising [email protected] or Hiers at youth@ “As somebody who offers spiritual segment to wellness.” dealing with the variety of issues, from a place to which I and our pastors can “It can be awkward for some teenagers to God, I think those respectful disagree- stjohnslugoff.org. Display ads, classifieds and inserts direction and spiritual counseling, I Dr. John Simmons, physician and life direction to marriage issues, depres- refer people who need help in those can be ordered by contacting us at to talk about it with their parents, and in ments are OK.” 888-678-6272 or 803-786-9486, ext. thought it would be a good opportunity member of Central UMC who is an sion and anxiety. Also, WaterRock areas; it has been a few years since we health class we only learn about (sexually Several of the teens say they really One happy revelation was that youth 338, or [email protected]. Dead- for us to provide a place for someone avid devotee of the mind-body-spir- staff can come to local churches and have had a UM pastoral counselor in lines are the 10th of each month for transmitted diseases) or abstinence – they appreciate getting answers from a trusted truly want boundaries more than anything. who offers these services … to use our ituality link, will teach some of the locations across S.C. to offer coaching, Spartanburg.” the following month’s paper. don’t go deep,” said 11th grader Danielle adult they feel comfortable talking to, as “They want someone who they know facility in a way that would reach out to classes. customized programs or retreats. To reach WaterRock, call 864-764- Moore. “You don’t learn what’s right or well as answers steeped in Scripture. and respect, who cares for them, to tell Subscriptions and benefit the community as a whole,” “I’m delighted that it’s going to be Services are available to anyone – 0608, or email Heidi@WaterRockInsti what’s wrong, what the Bible says.” “I know we’re getting it from a reliable them what the Bible says is appropriate The Advocate is delivered to mail- said the Rev. Alex Stevenson, Central there, and I’m proud my home church is clergy or laity, United Methodist or not. tute.org. boxes via U.S. mail every month prior Thanks to a new discussion series at source and can talk from a religious per- and what the UMC says is appropriate, to the first Sunday of the month. Sub- UMC’s pastor. reaching out in terms of ministry that’s St. John’s United Methodist Church in spective about how it’s sacred, instead of and that’s refreshing to me,” Hiers said. “I scriptions are $15/year for the print The Rev. Heidi Campbell-Robinson, a little bit different; it says a lot about and online version, and $8/year for Lugoff, Moore and her peers are getting your friends who just say ‘it’s cool,’” said kind of forget young people want to know who was appointed by the WNC the church,” Simmons said. the online-only edition. Church plans something far better. Gunnar Catoe, a ninth grader. “Plus I feel what people they respect feel is appropri- are available for as low as $1/mem- Conference to establish WaterRock Simmons said churches have a great “At church you get understanding,” comfortable talking about (sex) around ate and inappropriate. Sometimes we are ber (online version) or $10/member and help it flourish for the benefit of opportunity to serve, minister and be (print version with 10+ subscribers Moore said. kids I already know in my youth group, afraid to provide those boundaries for fear the Kingdom, said she has been “truly with people where they are in their lives per church). To start your subscrip- Moore and dozens of other high school with everybody opening up and having an of not being cool. But it’s our responsibil- tion, visit www.advocatesc. org, call embraced” by the Spartanburg District, seven days a week, not just Sunday. and middle schoolers are participating in open mind.” ity.” with credit card to 888-678-6272 or by Central and by other United Meth- “Sometimes the ‘places people are’ 803-786-9486, ext. 335, or send a a four-week Courage for the Conversa- Emily Block, a 12th grader, said she Congregational specialist the Rev. check to Advocate, 4908 Colonial odists who are quickly learning about are places of darkness, pain or suffer- tion discussion on human sexuality that didn’t get much out of sex ed class at Cathy Joens, who coordinates the confer- Drive, Columbia, SC 29203. the center. ing,” Simmons said. “Because of the is being offered by St. John’s, and the school, and talking with parents can be un- ence initiative, said St. John’s is doing “Not only does it underscore the services WaterRock provides, they’re Photographs S.C. Conference of the UMC is encourag- comfortable for some. But at church, she exactly what the Courage team hopes for. United Methodist connection, but also the kinds of things that say the church Photographs can be submitted to the ing every congregation in the state to do gets more truthful answers than she can “Our children need to know that their newspaper for publication. High-res- Christians reaching out and embracing cares all the time and the church cares something similar. get from her friends or elsewhere. bodies are created by God and their olution digital images are preferred. other Christians,” Campbell-Robinson where you are.” Photographs should be in focus and In 2010, the conference adopted legisla- While abstinence education is good, sexuality is part of the creation, and they should have proper exposure. Color said. Simmons teaches Mind, Body, Spirit tion urging all UMCs to pursue discus- Block said, “Most people say, ‘Don’t do need to have that conversation in a healthy or black and white photographs are She hopes more and more people Skills Development workshops, among accepted. People in photographs sion on human sexuality from a Christian it,’ but they don’t go into detail about why way,” Joens said. “If we don’t create a will understand the importance of other holistic wellness classes. These should be identified with names and perspective with their youth groups. it’s sacred, why we should wait.” healthy place in the church for our chil- ages, and a contact person with a ministering to the many needs of the workshops celebrate the gift of being “We decided at St. John’s to answer the But in Courage for the Conversation, dren to have this conversation, we’ll never phone number should be included in full person, especially from a Christian human and are designed to foster under- the information. challenge,” said Annah Hiers, St. John’s she and her friends get the information be able to put it in a context for them that perspective. standing and awareness of the mind- director of youth ministries. they want and need. is good and healthy and helpful as they Accuracy Policy The Advocate strives to produce Hiers and Robert Price, a father of one Price, a volunteer parent who co-leads grow. They’re experimenting without error-free news reports. When mis- of her students, attended a conference- the discussions with Hiers, said the kids any biblical conversation because they’re Discussing gun violence Be a stronger takes occur, it is our policy to correct sponsored training session in September are very curious. While they want to talk afraid the church is going to say sex is Bishop Jonathan Holston opens the them as soon as they are brought to to learn how to talk with youth about sex a great deal about homosexuality and bad, sexuality is bad, we don’t use ‘that Mayor’s Interfaith Conversation on Gun United Methodist. our attention. To request a correction, Violence in Columbia with prayer. Mayor call Jessica Connor at 888-678-6272 from a Christian perspective. Then, in abstinence, they also have questions that word.’” Steve Benjamin (left) convened the public or 803-786-9486, ext. 338, or email March, the duo began the sessions. Using surprised him. After all, with the numerous mixed meeting, which drew Jewish and Chris- Subscribe to [email protected]. In the event of Scan this errors in advertisements, the Advo- the curriculum Good Sex 2.0, first they “You’ve got to try to really listen and messages youth receive from society, they tian worshippers to talk about the faith QR code cate will be responsible only for the community’s role in curbing gun violence. with your meet with middle schoolers, then there is think your answers out,” Price said. “I often get confused about what is right the Advocate. smartphone! space occupied by the actual error. a break where all youth eat and play, then Participants reminded each other of what The publisher assumes no financial think it’s really brave for the UMC to do and wrong. While they understand mor- their faiths teach about violence. They also responsibility for omissions. they meet with the high schoolers. these classes. I think they’re very good for als portrayed on certain reality TV shows largely said the faith community needs to Name: “It’s going really, really well,” Hiers the youth and necessary.” are “wrong,” they then see respectable, get out of its comfort zone, noting these Mailing Address: Back Issues said. “The curriculum is designed to Hiers, too, had some surprises. The “good” couples on mainstream, primetime suggestions: Any pastor who does not The Advocate maintains copies of condemn gun violence and its causes back issues for sale for up to one facilitate informed discussion rather than controversial “hot topics” for youth today sitcoms living together before marriage from the pulpit should find another line of City State ZIP year, as long as the supply lasts. lecture, and that’s more effective. It does a are not the same hot topics for her genera- and doing other things the Bible does not When requesting by mail, back cop- work. Change the mindset of the church E-mail address: ies are $2 each, to cover postage very good job of creating a safe space for tion, which she said has been “eye open- condone. from membership recruitment to going out Church Name: and handling. To research or review discussion and honesty within the bounds ing.” Having a safe place like their church and “discipling,” kingdom-building. Edu- Pastor: District: articles published more than one year cate the congregation to counter industry of respectfulness and appropriateness.” The biggest issue, for them, is obedi- address those mixed messages is a very This is a: ago, bound copies of the newspa- propaganda and challenge people to speak Please make checks payable to: The Advocate per are available for review at the Not only does the curriculum answer ence, she said: “For them, whether it’s good thing, Hiers said. New Subscription ($15) up regarding domestic violence. Organize and return to: 4908 Colonial Dr., Suite 207, Advocate office, Wofford College in from a biblical perspective the tough ques- homosexuality or premarital sex, it’s, ‘Am “And at the heart of all of it is love and One-Year Renewal ($13) prayer groups within the congregation on Columbia, SC 29203-6070 Spartanburg and the South Carolin- tions that kids may have, but the sessions I a bad person if I displease God?’ or won- grace and mercy,” Hiers said of the cur- the problems of guns. Two-Year Subscription ($24) iana Library in Columbia. also involve leaders explaining the posi- dering the appropriate context for sexual riculum. “Whatever choices you may or Photo by Emily Cooper tion of the UMC on varying aspects of sex expression.” may not have made, God loves you.” Subscribe online: www.advocatesc.org • $15/year print and online; $8/year online only Page 4, April 2013 Advocate Advocate VIEWPOINTS Page 5, April 2013 Corrections

Viewpoints In March obituaries, we incorrectly reported the Rev. Edward Crosland McLeod was survived by his three sons and daughter. McLeod is sur- Editorial Bishop’s Corner vived by three daughters and one son. Also, in “New Parking Lot Helps by Jessica Connor by Bishop Jonathan Holston Members, Visitors to Wesley UMC” (March Advocate), Wesley should have been listed as being in Florence. Do something One shining moment We apologize for these errors and strive to set the record straight. In our faith, I’ve heard it over and over again: once we are saved in Christ, it “Do not conform any longer to the meaning? shouldn’t be enough to merely rest in the knowledge we are now guaranteed a pattern of this world, but be trans- It is my hope that this Easter will be spot in the Kingdom. While nothing we physically do can get us into heaven, once formed by the renewing of your mind.” for all of us a time to discover the faith we are safely in the arms of Jesus, we’re not supposed to just sit around on our (Romans 12:2) which “calls people to surrender to a LETTERS: On freedom of religion, pensions, fire safety, more laurels, eat bonbons and rest comfortably in our state of grace. The question of what teams are in Christ who wants to invade them, and Amendment while no one is asking how I suggest that the UMC and the S.C. Instead, inspired by the huge sacrifice our Risen Savior made for us on the or out, who will be the bracket buster through them, change the world that is, From Page 4 ‘I Don’t Understand’ we came to be so morally bankrupt that Conference close the pension plan and cross, we’re supposed to heed his command in the Great Commission to “go into or who is in the field of 68 all describe into the world that ought to be.” I don’t understand … What God is calling for the right to keep and bears arms is con- put the money aside for current employ- all the world and preach the gospel to all creation” (Mark 16:15). the NCAA basketball post-season At the end of three weeks, college Why people can’t get along I have read the Advocate from cover sidered by too many to be a draconian ees. Start a 401K or similar program And not just that. We’re supposed to feed his sheep. Love our neighbors as called “March Madness.” The culmina- basketball fans from around the world Why some people don’t go to church to cover this week, and in all honesty, right that needs to pass, rather than a such as most businesses are doing. ourselves. Care for the stranger, widow and orphan. tion of this event is the crowning of a will sing these familiar lyrics, namely: Why people are allergic to things there was so much to read and so much godly right of awesome responsibility. Also, turn the program over to a private Clearly, Jesus wants us to take this precious gift of eternal life and use it for champion and its anticipated anthem In One Shining Moment, to ponder and pray over. To protect the Second Amendment contractor. This should cut cost and be good. Save others. Be His hands and feet in the world. After all, in the Great Com- of college basketball: “One Shining It’s all on the line; But most of all … Should part-time pastors receive we need to insist that the court returns a much more efficient program. This mission, we’re not just called to preach the Gospel but to “go” into the world and Moment.” One Shining Moment Why terrorists attack us pension coverage? Personally, I won- to us the First. In 1962, the Supreme will not be popular among the UMC do just that. Do something. Act. Advocate. All in His name. This annual video captures three Frozen in time. Why people don’t take care of their der how well we would function as Court violated both freedom of religion employees, I’m sure, but it will help to As editor of the Advocate, it’s gratifying month after month to hear stories from weeks of action and anxiety, surprise pets a conference without them. Those I clauses. In the guise of keeping the keep the UMC from going out of busi- churches and people across the state about people who are living Christ’s call. In and sadness, as well as the thrill of Yet in the days and weeks ahead, Why some people don’t go to school have mentored and have the pleasure establishment clause, the court broke ness. this edition alone, we see a handful of Unite Methodists who are so concerned victory and the agony of defeat. Yet the Christian faithful in South Carolina Why people in other countries don’t of knowing are as dedicated to their the free exercise clause by saying com- This is a suggestion that I’m sure has about being good stewards of the earth that they are fighting for passage of a new another question is appropriate for our and around the world will gather for have water churches as any elder such as myself. munity churches could no longer influ- already been put forth by the confer- bill to allow people to more easily use the more eco-friendly solar energy. We see consideration. After the champion is worship singing a song of celebration I read with dismay the continuing is- ence community schools to perpetuate ence, but it has to be done, or we will churches who are making cleaning buckets for disaster victims, raising money for crowned, will your life be any differ- and life that speaks to the “true” shin- What I understand most is … sue of starvation in the world when we community values, which at that time keep losing churches due to financial hunger relief, helping homeless children, reaching out to immigrants, spending ent by what you see and experience? ing moment: Why you need other people’s help live in this land of plenty; we continue were Christian. Tell me where all these failure of paying for pensions. The their vacation painting and hammering to help people without adequate housing. Will you discover a need to fill the void Christ the Lord is risen today, Al- Why you need a friend to hear of issues about human traffick- secular values on Main Street USA UMC cannot continue to raise the rev- Last month, at the United Methodist Women’s annual Legislative Advocacy with a search for the next event? leluia! Why you have parents ing, and children soldiers. The world came from. They used to not be here. enue by asking churches to contribute Day, Linda DuRant perhaps said it best: “We have always taken the biblical Likewise, this Easter, when the eggs Earth and heaven in chorus say, Why every child needs a home. is exploding around us as political and They were effectively established by more and more. That has failed in most imperative of ‘who is my neighbor’ and ‘caring for the least of these’ very, very are found, the baskets unwrapped and Alleluia! religious factions continue the violence. court decrees in 1962 and ensuing years city and state governments and will fail seriously. If we don’t do it, it might not get done. … If we don’t do it, who will?” the bonnets put away, will you feel Raise your joys and triumphs high, Wilson Pope, member I know we make good-faith efforts in direct violation of the establishment with the UMC. We all have busy lives. But at the end of the day, if we’re not doing much more satisfied or still searching? When you Alleluia! Lyttleton Street UMC, Camden to attempt to eliminate some of the clause. This is not a moral decision but a than taking care of our own – kids, pocketbooks, neighborhood – then we’re not look at your faith journey, will you find Sing, ye heavens and earth reply, suffering, and are successful to some The shootings of late are the result of business one, and I feel that it should truly fulfilling what our Savior is calling us to do. a purposeful, abundant life that comes Alleluia! Fire extinguisher training degree, but until we stop depending on 50 years of government-imposed secu- treated as such. Do something. Reach out. Hear what God is calling you to do, and then act on from knowing God and his son, Jesus, That’s my “true” shining moment. Greetings brethren, I’m “on fire for ourselves and our own perceived limita- lar values that have no ability to restrain Larry McKellar that. We have precious time on this earth. Let’s make the most of it. or a life still searching for joy and He is risen! He is risen, indeed. safety” and on fire for God. Churches tions, we will not stop hunger, violence, the sinful human heart. Unwilling to Mount Lebanon UMC, Greenwood are constantly searching for ways to human trafficking or anything else. return our First Amendment freedoms, bring the congregation together. What Letters Policy Where is the heart of the conference, the government can only offer more op- We welcome letters to the editor. We urge brevity, as succinct writing often produces clarity. Letters should be no Letters to the Editor better way to bring the congregation more than 300 words. All letters are subject to editing as needed to meet standards of grammar, space and interest. what is God calling individual congre- pressive restrictions. This does nothing A poem: ‘God is busy’ together, fellowship and learn to stay We will not publish anonymous letters, letters praising or criticizing businesses by name, endorsements of or letters from political candidates, fundraising appeals, or letters containing inappropriate language or personal attacks. All gations to do? Until we are willing to to correct the problem. It perpetuates it! What does God do, I often wonder? safe than fire extinguisher training? letters will be verified, so you must include a name, daytime phone number, church membership and hometown. Special powers? Pickens County. I have also had the dream God’s dreams and place all our We need freedom of religion as it He rides lightning and rolls the Everyone in church should know how Letters should be sent to The Advocate, 4908 Colonial Drive, Columbia, SC 29203, faxed to 803-735-8168 or e- mailed to [email protected]. Deadlines are the 10th of each month. In Hebrew Scripture, we learn the privilege of working on the New Petro trust in the Lord, we will continue to was constitutionally practiced from the thunder to operate a fire extinguisher. Israelites continually became “double Glyph Art Building, as well as perform- struggle. ramification of the Constitution until And puts the blue on robin’s eggs If your church doesn’t have fire ex- minded.” They turned from worshiping ing old-time and bluegrass music at this When we get to conference this year, 1962 when the courts violated our free- And gives flamingos spindly legs tinguishers, a fire safety company (see the one true God and began incorporat- historic site, which has allowed me to most of the conversation will be about dom of religion. Now, our freedom to yellow pages of the phone book under ing pagan practices into their culture. come to know and befriend Hagood’s money and not enough about ministry. keep and bear arms is threatened. How I know that God’s been everywhere “fire extinguishers”) is to be contacted. When I read the article “Feathers in curator, Ed Bolt, as well as the many When the ministry of God and God’s many more freedoms will be restricted When I see flowers in Spring’s hair The fire safety company representa- Native Cultures” in your March issue, volunteers who donate of their time for dreams as revealed in the Scriptures as the government continues to establish He dabs Dawn’s cheeks with puffs of tive or your local fire department will 4908 Colonial Drive, Suite 207, Columbia, SC 29203 maintenance and construction projects. become our primary focus, God will secular value and its moral bankruptcy? 888-678-6272 or 803-786-9486 I questioned whether we are doing the cloud train you how to use the fire extinguish- [email protected] | www.advocatesc.org same thing. Yes, many cultures have So I was a bit dismayed at the omis- provide what we need to get it done and Rev. Ben Herlong, pastor And makes the bluebells ring aloud. er. PASS is the acronym for using the ascribed special powers to objects sion by the Advocate that the fine folks all the other resources we need to oper- Gramling UMC, Gramling fire extinguisher. PASS means: Publisher The S.C. United Methodist Advocate Trustees from nature and called them sacred. As at Hagood Mill could use help in the ate. I congratulate those who are trying And those lovely leaves of Fall? P: Pull the pin. Hold the fire extin- The Rev. Steven King, chairperson; the Rev. Angela Nelson, vice chairperson; Christians, we are told that we are not funding of this new project. I honestly so hard and struggle to find even the It’s a business decision The Master Artist paints them all guisher with the nozzle pointing away the Rev. Carleathea Benson, secretary; Carmen Faulkner, treasurer; believe there are many folk from our human resources to help even when you Dyron V. Anderson; the Rev. Audrey Boozer; the Rev. Jerry Gadsden; to participate in such practices. We are I read the article in the Advocate He also sends us ice and snow from you, and release the locking Rhonda Jones; Gladys Lemon; the Rev. Evelyn Middleton; Skyler Nimmons; told that God created the natural world, S.C. United Methodist Conference who have everything else in hand. Bishop with interest, as this has been one of the And teaches mighty winds to blow. mechanism. Dr. Ralph Ostrom; Dr. Phillip Stone; Diane Wilson; and the Rev. William Wrighten but we are not to worship it. would be willing to give of their time, Holston came closest when he wrote, peeves of the local churches since pen- A: Aim low. Point the extinguisher at their wallets and maybe hold in old “Giving God room to work.” It is not Editors emeritus Wanda M. Benton sion plans were started by The United He draws that circle ‘round the moon the base (bottom) of the fire. M. Eugene Mullikin, Maryneal Jones, Willie S. Teague, Johnsonville family records or memorabilia, articles about what we can do; it is about what Methodist Church. Business-minded And writes the songs for birds to S: Squeeze the lever slowly and Allison Askins, Karl F. Davie Burgdorf, Emily L. Cooper or artifacts that would bring this inn God can and does do. people back then knew that it will break croon evenly. Staff Burdine home could use help project to fruition. I love God, my family, the church I the UMC. Then pins the diamonds on Night’s S: Sweep the nozzle from side-to- Editor: Jessica Connor, [email protected] I am writing as regards the article If you and your readers wish to con- serve, the S.C. Conference and all of The article stated that the pension gown side. Assistant Editor: Allison K. Trussell, [email protected] tribute money, time, Methodist artifacts my colleagues in ministry – clergy and Editorial Intern: Brady Hammond covering the historic Samuel Burdine plan could not be stopped. That I don’t And helps the world to settle down. Let the professionals tell you what’s home where Bishop Asbury would stay or questions in regards to helping with lay – and pray every day we are grow- understand. The pension plan can be the best extinguisher for your church. Our Mission when in the Upstate of South Caro- this wonderful historic project, please ing closer to what God calls us to be. stopped, and if pastors and employees God does not get a chance to play We’re safe in the arms of God, but we To communicate the message of the United Methodist Church and to connect United Methodists by contact those fine folks at either Ha- Rev. Kevin Gorry, senior pastor independently reporting news, engaging readers and providing a forum for dialogue. lina (January Advocate). The inn is an of the church do not pay anything into He keeps so busy night and day must make it a priority to keep our important part of our United Method- good Mill Historic Site and Folklife Trinity UMC, Sumter the pension plan, then they can get Summer, winter, fall and spring churches safe. Subscriptions Center, Mr. Ed Bolt, curator, 138 Our awesome God does everything! Much love. The individual subscription rate is $15/year for the print and online version ($13 for renewals) and $8/ ist church history, and I, as a lifelong nothing out of it. They can get only year for the online-only edition. To subscribe or for information about discounted church plan rates, Methodist and resident of Pickens Hagood Mill Road, Pickens, SC 29671; On freedom of religion what they contributed to the pension Charlotte Partin, member Selena Smith, deaconess call 888-678-6272, e-mail [email protected] or visit www.advocatesc.org. County, look forward to this pre-Rev- or Mr. Alan Coleman, director, Pickens Washington is attaching the Second plan. St. John UMC, Sumter Mayesville UMC, Mayesville

The S.C. United Methodist Advocate (ISSN 1078-8166) continues the Southern Christian Advocate, authorized by the General Confer- olution home’s reconstruction at the County Museum of Art and History, ence of 1836. Publication began Annual Conference-July 24, 1837. The paper is published monthly by the S.C. United Methodist 307 Johnson St., Pickens, SC 29671. Advocate Trustees. We cannot be responsible for unsolicited manuscripts.Please direct all inquiries regarding commentary submissions Historic Hagood Mill Site. to the editor, 4908 Colonial Drive, Suite 207, Columbia, SC 29203-6070. 803-786-9486/ FAX 803-735-8168. Periodicals postage paid Charles C. Blowers at Columbia, S.C. I have visited this historic mill and Postmaster: Send address changes to: S.C. United Methodist Advocate, 4908 Colonial Drive, Suite 207, Columbia, SC 29203. accompanying buildings many times Sunset ADVERTISE IN THIS SPACE! [email protected] | 888-678-6172 ext. 335 April 2013 • Volume 177 • No. 4 over the 30 years I have resided in See “Letters,” Page 5 Page 6, April 2013 Annual Conference 2013 Advocate Advocate Annual Conference 2013 Page 7, April 2013 AC2013: Hunger relief focus, new civic center setup among changes Adopting an arrearage policy at AC 2013 “It’s all trying to tell the story of why From Page 1 By the Rev. Jeremy L. Howell give specific instructions and time lines do we do this? Why do we care?” said Golf tourney to combine in carrying out the mandate of Para. the first Annual Conference he has con- Conference Secretary the Rev. Karen Arrearage Policy for the S.C. Conference 1. In the event that the local church treasurer becomes aware that the As a result of new language in the 624.1: “If it becomes apparent that a Radcliffe. “It’s more than just the busi- ducted for this body. pre-AC2013 fun with charity church will be unable to provide to the pastor full payment of a regularly 2012 Book of Discipline, this year I church or charge will be unable to so “I am excited to share with you in ness of the church but a true mission scheduled payroll, accountable reimbursements or housing allowance install- have the responsibility as thecChair- provide the compensation approved by By Jessica Connor wants to go to camp at Asbury Hills this exciting time,” Holston said. “Our opportunity.” ment, the church treasurer shall immediately notify both verbally (within 24 person of the Commission on Equitable the charge conference, the church or but just can’t quite afford all the theme, ‘A More Excellent Way – A hours) and in writing (within 3 days) the pastor, the lay leader, the lay mem- Compensation to present to the Annual charge Staff Parish Relations Commit- FLORENCE – In what many are fees. And although golf tournaments Story of Serving, Giving and Living,’ This year’s event ber of annual conference and the chairs of S/PPRC, finance, trustees and Conference an Arrearage Policy: tee chairperson, finance chair or trea- hoping will become an annual tradi- are not a new idea, we see it as a is our way forward together. Come and Some highlights of this year’s event: the administrative/church council of the impending arrearage. Upon receipt “625. Equitable Compensation – 2. surer shall immediately notify, both in tion, golf-loving United Methodists means to bring folks from all around of such notice, the chair of S/PPRC and/or the pastor shall immediately (with- join us for a special time of Christian • No teaching person this year; It is the purpose of the commission on writing and verbally, the pastor, district will have a new chance for fellow- the state together for just plain fun in three days) notify the district superintendent of the impending arrearage. conferencing!” • Sunday to Wednesday format equitable compensation to support full- superintendent and congregation.” ship and fun when they head to An- and fellowship before a long week It is the pastor’s responsibility to keep copies of all such written notifications, Besides the four-day slate of business remains; time clergy serving as pastors in the The intent of the arrearage policy is nual Conference this June. at the conference,” Spriggs said. and to provide additional written confirmation to the district superintendent on the conference agenda, this year’s • Different, “more intimate” civic charges of the annual conference by ... multifold: S.C. Conference Camps and Re- “Since some people already come when an arrearage has taken place. Failure to document salary or benefit gathering will also include a massive center setup with most seating on the (d) submitting an arrearage policy to be 1) To ensure pastors are paid on time. treat Ministries is offering its first- a day early to the conference, we arrearages may result in a loss of compensation and/or forfeiture of pen- day of hunger relief ministry, the S.C. floor; sion and benefits. If the church is unable to remit to the conference treasurer adopted by the annual conference.” 2) To ensure direct billing is paid on ever golf tournament for clergy and thought, what a perfect time to host Hunger Project, on Tuesday, June 11. • Ordination will be held on Monday full payment for regular direct billed benefit payments such as pension and This immediately provokes several time. laity the day before Annual Confer- a golf tournament.” June 11 will be a one-day meal pack- night; health benefits, the procedures in item 6 below shall be followed. questions: Just what is an arrearage? 3) To prompt the local church to act ence begins: June 8. Spriggs said many people have ing/food drive event with three ways • Meal packing/food drive event 2. Upon receipt of notice of a pending arrearage, the chair of S/PPRC Why do we need a policy? What will immediately should it become Set for The Traces Golf Club in fond memories of their camping ex- people can participate: Tuesday will occur during business; shall immediately (within 72 hours) schedule and hold a meeting of the pas- the policy say? Where did our pro- apparent that either 1) or 2) is not Florence, the tournament begins perience at Asbury Hills from their tor, lay leader and chairs of finance, trustees and the administrative/church 1) Pack meals for Stop Hunger Now • Holston will preach all services posed policy come from? going to occur. at 1 p.m. with a shotgun start. All youth, so this tournament will also council to discuss the financial situation and seek remedies to prevent an that day at the civic center. A thousand except the Monday afternoon memorial In the simplest terms, an arrear- 4) To provide an initial plan of action proceeds will benefit the ministry, give those who feel like they no lon- arrearage from occurring. Such remedies might include: non-delegate volunteers are needed for service; age occurs when a church or charge to deal with the situation, taking providing support for children to ex- ger have a connection to camp the a. Drawing from invested funds; three packing shifts. Adults will pack • Offerings will go to hunger minis- is unable to pay in full the approved note of what can and cannot be perience summer camp at the confer- opportunity to reconnect with fellow b. An emergency appeal for special giving from the congregation; the first or second shifts, and youth will tries; compensation or support to or for its done per the Discipline. ence’s Asbury Hills in the Upstate. campers and camp supporters. c. Emergency grants or loans from the District or Conference. pack during the third shift. (See sidebar, • Childcare will again be offered this According to the Book of Discipline Para. 624, such remedies cannot in- pastor. This would include those items 5) To find ways to help the local church Arthur Spriggs, executive direc- The tournament features fun, this page.) year at Central UMC. Signup forms will clude a reduction in the pastor’s compensation until the beginning of the next adopted by the charge conference, such meet its financial obligations and tor of Camps and Retreat Ministries, food, prizes and a silent auction. The 2) Bring canned goods and other be available in pre-conference materi- conference year. as base compensation, housing allow- to limit the liability of the annual said the tournament makes sense for fee is $400 for team entry and $100 non-perishables to the civic center that als; and 3. If, after consultation among the lay leader and chairs of S/PPRC, ance, accountable reimbursements conference. them to hold from a charitable, fel- for individuals. day for an Annual Conference Food • The awards ceremony will be dif- finance, trustees and the administrative/church council, it becomes appar- and direct billing payments. (From the lowship and fitness perspective. To sign up, use the entry form on ent that the church may be facing a long-term financial crisis, the chair of S/ Drive; items will be distributed to food ferent this year, with a breakfast photo 2012 Discipline, Para. 624: “Payment As a way of expounding on 5), let “We are always looking for an- page 36 of this edition. For more PPRC shall notify in writing the pastor and district superintendent that: pantries throughout S.C., not just in opportunity, then award winners fea- obligation – 1. Each church or charge me offer a brief explanation of how the Florence. tured in a video played on the confer- other way to say ‘yes’ to a kid that information, call 864-458-2071. a. An Equitable Compensation Subsidy Grant may be necessary to maintain compensation for the remainder of the conference year; or has an obligation to pay the full com- language about arrearages was intro- 3) For those who cannot participate ence floor. b. A change in pastoral compensation or appointment may be necessary at pensation, as approved by the charge duced to last year’s General Confer- in the Florence events, hold a local the beginning of the following conference year. conference, to its pastor(s).”) ence. The proposal came from the hunger ministry event that day – any- Resolutions and key issues ing what they believe the conference 2012, the body decided annual confer- 4. If the local church becomes delinquent in the pastor’s compensation Why do we need such a policy? In executive committee of the National thing from a food drive to a free meal While some surprises might come to should do, through its districts, to make ences should have the right to decide (i.e., more than 30 days delinquent), then the district superintendent shall an ideal world, we wouldn’t; every Association of Commissions on Equi- and more. the floor, the body is certain to vote on disciples for Christ. whether they wish to cover part-time notify the Commission on Equitable Compensation, which on its own initiative church or charge would always be table Compensation. A member of that From the preaching to the business to several key topics: • The Conference Council on Fi- pastors at the same level they do full- may do any or all of the following, but not limited to: able to find the means to pay its pastor. committee is from the Cal-Pac Annual the hunger missioning, Annual Confer- • The District Study Task Force, a nance & Administration is doing its time pastors, or even at all. Implementa- a. Sending a representative from CEC to meet with the local church and pas- However, this is not always the case. Conference. Cal-Pac, because of a tor to seek resolution of the issue; ence organizers say the gathering will conference-wide task force of clergy final finesse of the 2014 budget as of tion is Jan. 1, 2014, so the S.C. Confer- While rare, there are those occasions lack of an arrearage policy and through be a true Kingdom moment. and laity, will present a report detail- the Advocate’s press time, and they will ence must decide in June whether it b. Developing with the local church a payment plan so that the pastor re- ceives full payment of compensation by the end of the conference year. when sudden financial misfortunes some bad decisions, is currently em- present their proposed budget for adop- wishes to continue providing pension leave a church unable to meet its an- broiled in a lawsuit involving several tion at Annual Conference. The draft at the same level for part-time pastors, The district superintendent shall be a participant in this process. 5. If the local church is already receiving a subsidy grant from the CEC, ticipated obligations. hundreds of thousands of dollars over will be in the pre-conference materials scale back a notch or offer no benefit. the CEC may also: Several years ago in our annual an arrearage going back more than 20 A dent in hunger and is expected to represent a smaller • Dialogue and/or a resolution is ex- a. Determine if all subsidy grant funds allocated to the church were used to conference, the financial “depression” years. budget than the $16.9 million passed for pected on what to do about the unpaid pay the pastor’s salary; caused several business owners in one The policy we will be voting on S.C. Hunger Project meal packing/ 2013. pension and insurance bills (known as b. Examine the original subsidy grant application to determine if the amount church to lose their businesses, and the this year began largely with a sample • The conference Board of Pension “direct billing”) due to the conference requested to meet minimum compensation was reduced; result was that the church was unable arrearage policy developed by the and Health Benefits will present for from some local churches. c. Require an outside audit of all church funds in compliance with GCFA to pay its pastor in full. executive committee of the NACEC. food drive event set for June 11 guidelines (www.gcfa.org); vote its recommendation on whether the • Constitutional amendments from At the quadrennial training for con- It was edited for use in our annual con- S.C. Annual Conference should provide General Conference 2012 will be ad- d. Notify the district superintendent of its findings and recommendations in By Jessica Connor or second shifts. Youth will pack writing. ference administrators sponsored by ference and offered to various confer- pension for part-time pastors – and if dressed. The United Methodist Church’s Gen- ence officials for review and comment, during the third shift (2-4:30 p.m.), so, at what level. Currently, S.C. UMCs For more about Annual Conference, 6. If a local church becomes delinquent in the payment of the pastor’s direct-billed pension and health benefits (i.e., more than 90 days delinquent), eral Council on Finance and Adminis- including Bishop Jonathan Holston, One more month remains for then have a pizza party, followed pay pension for full- and part-time pas- including any resolutions or peti- South Carolina United Methodists to by a youth-oriented worship service then the conference treasurer shall notify the conference benefits officer, tration, held Feb. 1-3 in Jacksonville, Conference Benefits Officer the Rev. tors, without the pastor having to put in tions not yet received as of the Advo- the district superintendent and the CEC. On behalf of the conference, the Fla., a district superintendent from a David Anderson, Conference Trea- raise $36,000 for hunger relief. that night with a special band and any money toward his or her pension cate’s press time, visit www.umcsc. That number is half of the goal for speaker. benefits officer and/or district superintendent shall develop a written payment Midwestern annual conference who surer Tony Prestipino and others. The account. But at General Conference org/2012AC.html. plan with the local church so that the conference receives full payment of the S.C. Conference-sponsored Stop 2) Bring non-perishable items was attending the Equitable Compen- Commission on Equitable Compensa- pension and health benefits by the end of the conference year. Hunger Now meal-packing event, set to the civic center that day for an sation workshop was asked, “How tion has approved it. The Cabinet and 7. Paragraph 2542.1 of the Discipline makes clear that no real property many churches in your district are two conference CF&A have reviewed it and for June 11 in the middle of Annual Annual Conference Food Drive. on which a church building or parsonage is located shall be mortgaged to funerals away from being unable to offered their comments and support. Conference. The conference needs to The items will be distributed to food eBook now available! pay for the current or budgeted expenses of a local church (including arrear- raise $72,000 for the event, with half pantries throughout S.C., not just in ages), nor shall the principal proceeds of a sale of any such property be so pay their pastor?” After a moment’s To avoid lengthy and protracted raised by May 1. Florence. used. This provision shall apply alike to unincorporated and incorporated thought he replied, “Three or four out debate on the conference floor, the The meal packaging is part of 3) Those who cannot participate local churches. of 85.” policy is printed in the box on this page the South Carolina Hunger Project, in the Florence meal-packing or food only $7.99 8. In extreme and unresolved circumstances, the local church and/or pas- While the numbers may not be as for review. a one-day hunger event that also drive are asked to hold their own tor may petition a session of the annual conference, following proper proce- high in our own annual conference, it I invite your questions, comments includes a food drive and statewide local hunger ministry event that day dures, for assistance in payment of the arrearage not to exceed the minimum does give one pause. and friendly amendments. I may be conference compensation standards. However, it is the responsibility of the hunger ministry events, all combined – anything from a food drive to a free Should it become necessary to reached at [email protected] or 843- local church to provide a minimum compensation for its appointed clergy implement, our arrearage policy would 303-8836. to put a dent in the hunger problem, meal and more. These churches are (Para. 624). as well as encourage people to con- strongly urged to email photos that 9. It is the responsibility of the pastor to provide evidence of an arrearage tinue compassionate giving toward very day to [email protected], as by providing documentation, such as treasurer’s reports, charge conference the hungry. the photos will be shared at Annual Order hard copy and reports of adopted salary and compensation, check stubs, W-2 forms, etc. There are three ways people can Conference later that day. 10. The statute of limitations for filing a claim for funds from the annual participate June 11: Funds raised beyond the $72,000 eBook online conference (i.e., notification to the district superintendent of the arrearage) 1) Participate in the Stop Hunger goal will go to local hunger minis- at AdvocateSC.org for any salary arrearage is one year from the date of the initial arrearage. Now meal-packing that day at the tries throughout the state. or call Once an appointment ends, the pastor no longer has claim on the local Florence Civic Center. A thousand To sign up for the S.C. Hunger church for compensation funds (Para. 342.4). 11. The district superintendent shall provide a report of the matter and ac- non-delegate volunteers are needed Project, or for more information, 888-678-6272x335 tions taken to be placed in the permanent files of the church and the pastor. to pack meals during three shifts. visit www.umcsc.org, or contact – Approved by Commission on Equitable Compensation Jan. 12, Adults are asked to come the first Matt Brodie, conference communica- Supported by The Cabinet Feb. 13, Supported by CF&A Feb. 26 Page 8, April 2013 Page 1 Jump Advocate Advocate Page 1 Jump Page 9, April 2013 SOLAR ENERGY: Bill now in Senate Judiciary Committee ADVOCATE AWARDS: Wins also go to Connor, Brodie of the excellent paper we publish each From Page 1 for student dormitories and the college’s a host of electric cooperatives – have Black said the bill presents no threat From Page 1 athletic center since 2011 thanks to a exclusive rights to serve customers to electric companies’ ability to operate month and are especially pleased that churches, schools, nonprofits, military $193,000 federal energy grant. Rebecca within their assigned territories. They profitably, because alternative energy Advocate Editor Jessica Connor won organizations like the SCPA recognize bases, businesses and private individu- B. Munnerlyn of Columbia College said are monopolies sanctioned by the state. accounts for less than 1/10 of a percent second place for Best Published Fea- as outstanding what we on the board als to lease solar from private finance the panels serve as a great example of While that was a good plan at the of energy use in South Carolina. Even ture Story for her article, “The Bridge,” have come to expect as ‘that’s just the companies like Charleston’s InterTech the technology applied to existing build- time, four decades later circumstances if solar were to suddenly become wildly which appeared in the Advocate’s April way we do things,’” said the Rev. Steve Group or DSC. ings in an urban setting. have changed dramatically, Black said. popular, the bill caps the maximum so- 2012 edition. King, Advocate board chair. S.C. House Bill 3425, The Energy “Incorporating solar technology into Along with the shift in landline phone lar energy sales at 2 percent, “So there’s Matt Brodie won second and third Competition in the Advocate’s System Freedom of Ownership Act, both residential settings and our athlet- service to cellular, “The same shift is no newsworthy financial impact or place for Best Published Photograph division included The Voice, the S.C. was introduced earlier this year, but it ics center introduced sustainable ‘green’ happening with regard to utilities,” he managerial impact for utilities,” Black for his photos “Playing Superman” and Policy Council, USC Magazine Group, has stalled in the House after Rep. Bill energy into the everyday lives of our said. “There’s a technological revolu- said. “In fact, our utilities would actu- “Mobbed,” respectively, both from the SCBIZ, the Murrells Inlet Messenger Sandifer, R-Oconee, asked the Public tion going on in electricity markets right ally benefit significantly from learning September 2012 edition. and S.C. Farm Bureau, among many Utilities Review Committee to analyze now, transforming the traditional model how to incorporate this small amount The awards were given out March others. the bill and report back. of centralized electricity generation and of solar onto the grid in advance of the 23 at the press association’s annual These recent wins bring the tally However, the Senate companion bill, distribution into one which allows for coming market transformation. To face meeting and awards gala in Greenville. to nearly 40 awards the Advocate has This photo by Matt Brodie, “Playing Superman,” garnered the Advocate a second S 536, was introduced March 19 with individuals to take greater ownership the emerging paradigm shift ill-prepared “The board of the Advocate is proud achieved in the last three years. place win from the SCPA. It is among four total awards the Advocate won. 14 bipartisan senators supporting it as “ in their energy future and to protect would be a miscalculation of monumen- of the Advocate’s press time. Sen. Greg Human beings are themselves from the rising costs of tal proportions, but that is the course Gregory, R-Lancaster, is lead sponsor. created in God’s image, electricity.” we’re locked into at the moment.” DISASTER PLAN: Draft to be presented at AC2013 The bill has been referred to the Senate which means our job is More and more people are adopt- Judiciary Committee, of which Gregory to help complete creation ing environmentally friendly practices, What’s next From Page 1 is a member. from recycling and electric cars to green As of the Advocate’s press time, the S.C. Conference Disaster Response Coordinator the “We are hopeful in moving this bill and preserve creation. It’s construction and solar energy. While Senate is on a break and will resume its Rev. George Olive and other members of the confer- through Judiciary to the Senate floor for not to be God’s demolition third-party solar energy financing is session April 9, giving it not much time ence disaster response committee met for a three-day debate, and hopefully back to the House not permitted in this state, several other to get the bill through committee, to the squad. intensive training Feb. 28-March 2. They met to before May 1, the date when a bill origi- states – including California and Colo- floor, passed and then to the House. fully understand basic disaster ministry and then set nating in one body must be received – Rev. Wiley Cooper rado – do allow it with success. “This is not an impossible feat, but the foundation to write a new and updated disaster in the other body for the bill to receive we have our work cut out for us, and we response plan. Olive and a small writing team began normal consideration for that year’s How do the utilities feel? need to see representative democracy their first efforts at writing the plan March 19, and legislative session,” said Ryan Black S.C. utilities are calling for study in its truest form in order to be success- they hope to have a final draft for acceptance at An- of the Coastal Conservation League, an and caution. Mollie Gore of Santee ful,” Black said. nual Conference 2013, set for June 9-12 in Florence. environmental group strongly advocat- Cooper said the utility company sup- However, this is year one of a two- “ “My goal is to have every local church in the an- ing the bill. students,” Munnerlyn said. “The ther- ports the ongoing study of the issue by year session of the state legislature, so nual conference trained, prepared and equipped to The state’s utilities are calling for mal water-heating systems supported by the Energy Advisory Council, “which if the bill does not pass the Senate by respond to a disaster, whether a simple house fire in heavy study before lawmakers consider the solar panels provide a long-term en- is meeting regularly and making good June, then the political process pauses their neighborhood or a major disaster that affects a passing any energy-related bill. ergy savings for the college and reduce progress through some of the opportuni- until January 2014, when the session large portion of the conference,” Olive said. Cooper and other United Methodists our carbon footprint.” ties and challenges associated with the resumes. To do that, first we need to have a total conference are crossing their fingers the bill passes, Private individuals and businesses bills. We encourage the Legislature to Black and Cooper said they are opti- construct in place, which should make South Carolina viewing solar energy as a way Chris- who are committed to solar and have give time for that study to be conducted mistic about the bill’s passage, and they capable and effective in case of a disaster. tians can be better stewards of God’s the funds to buy solar panels can do before acting on these bills.” are doing everything they can to raise “Every other conference in the Southeastern Juris- earth. so, and then recoup their upfront costs Robert Yanity, of SCE&G, said they awareness. diction has had at least one disaster (recently) except “In Genesis 1 and 2, Jesus’ state- via reduced energy bills and by taking want to make sure lawmakers thor- “What drives me is the faith end, South Carolina,” Olive said. “We’ve been fortunate, ments, the Gospels and everything in advantage of available tax breaks. But oughly understand the implications of biblically and theologically,” Cooper but the downside is we haven’t put the focus on being between, including Paul, human be- schools, churches, the military and other third-party leasing before they consider said. “The church is given the responsi- ready and prepared.” ings are created in God’s image, which nonprofits don’t pay taxes, so they have the legislation. bility of stewardship and trusteeship of During the three-day intensive, disaster response means our job is to help complete cre- no ability to use tax credits. They have “We certainly support solar energy the resources God has entrusted to us. Disaster response members get their version of S.C. Conference Disaster Response Coordinator committee members got their version of what Olive ation and to preserve creation. It’s not to pay in full for the solar panels, which and do have programs to let custom- … and if the church can refocus God’s “Basic Disaster Ministry 101” from Larry Howell, the Rev. George Olive (top) and Bishop Jonathan dubbed “Basic Disaster Ministry 101” from Larry to be God’s demolition squad,” Cooper is out of the question for most of these ers net meter with us and put on solar resources on mission (instead of pay- UMCOR facilitator. (Photos by Billy Robinson) Holston speak at the meeting. Howell, facilitator with the United Methodist Com- said. “God owns the earth, we don’t, groups, who often are cash-strapped, generators and wind generators,” Yanity ing so much for electricity), then that’s mittee of Relief. UMCOR is the UMC’s official how the S.C. Conference can work with them means and God has given us responsibility for operate year to year and don’t have the said. “We certainly work with them … good for all South Carolinians – Meth- especially one as unique in its charge as the UMC. national and international relief arm, and Olive is the our volunteers can be organized and helpful and not preserving and caring for it.” capital to invest in long-term energy. we just want to ensure it’s in the correct odists, Christians or otherwise.” UMCOR representative for S.C. just rush in and be disruptive, albeit with good inten- If there is an opportunity for us to Washington Street UMC and several way and there are no implications on Anyone interested in signing Coo- On the horizon: district and local church plans After the committee got up to speed, they were tions. enhance that creation, or stop some of other churches stumbled upon what they the reliability of our system.” per’s online petition to allow solar Olive said he intends the disaster response plan to ready to explore first steps toward the development of S.C. Bishop Jonathan Holston, formerly the disaster the earth’s demolition by using the more thought was a perfect solution, Cooper Ryan Mosier of Duke Energy said leasing should visit www.change. be a fluid and evolving document, one that is reviewed a new, significantly updated conference plan. relief coordinator when he served in the North Geor- eco-friendly solar, then we must do so, said: they planned to lease energy from much the same. With the Energy Advi- org/petitions/lower-our-electric-bills- regularly and modified with the times. “The last plan we had in South Carolina was writ- gia Annual Conference, also attended the meeting. Cooper said, urging people to contact a private company, DCS Energy, which sory Council still deliberating on the is- by-allowing-solar-leasing. To con- He also said it is merely the first step in conference- ten in the aftermath of Hurricane Hugo, which oc- “I am grateful to Rev. George Olive and those who their legislators and ask them to support was going to provide free solar panels sue, “From Duke Energy’s perspective, tact your state senator about the bill, wide preparedness. Next on the horizon is encourag- curred in 1989,” Olive said. are giving leadership in our disaster response minis- the bill. to the church, and then sell the church we are going to wait until we see the visit www.scstatehouse.gov/member. ing districts to draft their own plans, and then having the electricity. outcome of their deliberation, look at php?chamber=S. To contact your state While that plan was fine for its time, much has try,” Holston said. “This ministry of Christian action districts identify a few people who can become train- changed since then, and we need a new plan to reflect and presence is vital to responding to those in need at Solar and the church – why? These private companies see this their feedback and move forward from representative, visit www.scstatehouse. ers to help local churches develop plans of their own. all of that, Olive said. the most devastating times of their lives.” Solar energy involves using energy as a win-win, Black said: They have there,” Mosier said. gov/member.php?chamber=H. The Rev. Paul Wood, who also was part of the The Rev. Kathy James, director of Connectional from the sun, harnessed through vari- a tax burden, so they get a modest meeting, said the conference must develop and ap- Recipe for a good plan Ministries, said that while the conference has dedi- ous technologies such as solar panels. return and a valuable tax benefit, and prove a plan as quickly as possible, as we never know A strong plan should include a means for ad- cated and well-trained Emergency Response Teams Solar advocates say it is now as cheap the church gets the electricity it needs Registration going on now for when a colossal disaster could hit South Carolina. dressing all kinds of disasters, not just hurricanes or and United Methodist Volunteers in Mission recov- as regular electricity and an eco-friendly for a reduced, fixed price. In about a Hispanic/Latino Church Planters’ Boot Camp “But our plan also needs to be comprehensive and tornadoes, but also chemical spills, terrorist attacks ery teams who serve throughout the connection, a renewable resource that decreases decade, after the lease runs its course, to be interpreted widely throughout the districts for it and earthquakes. Olive said earthen concrete dams comprehensive conference plan will help everyone dependency on imported uranium for the church gets to keep the solar panels Hispanic church planters will of planting. This is a bilingual event to be effective. So there is some tension in my mind have the potential to break down and cause massive understand the lines of response and communication nuclear power and fossil fuels like coal. and have that renewable energy source gather next month for the Hispanic/ led by Jim Griffith, a nationally between haste and ‘doing it right,’” said Wood, who flooding, and a nuclear disaster is also a possibility (he that will be in place if we are faced with a disaster in Typically, churches and others who for the remaining life of the panels – at Latino Church Planters’ Boot Camp, known author and church-planting pastors First UMC, Cheraw, and is the Hartsville Dis- noted South Carolina leads the country in deriving 50 South Carolina. wish to use solar energy rely on solar least another 15 years under manufac- organized by the Northern Illinois consultant. trict Disaster Response Coordinator. percent of its electrical power from nuclear reactors). “The training UMCOR provided helps us to iden- panels, which require a large upfront turers’ guarantees. Conference of the United Methodist Prices are $275 for the planter, $50 Wood said he thinks it is wise to form district com- The plan also needs to include how to provide spiri- tify what we already have in place and where there are investment. While prices have recently But then they discovered it was il- Church. for the planter’s spouse and $120 for mittees and hold training events, which will enable tual and other support for victims, as well as detail gaps in our preparedness that we can address before dropped significantly, it still costs about legal in South Carolina, effectively halt- Anyone who supports, leads or each accompanying person. Registra- our connectional system to respond quickly on a local how to interface with the rest of the disaster response we are in the midst of a disaster,” James said. $20,000-$30,000 for panels for a typical ing all plans – and prompting legislation is thinking of launching a Hispanic tion includes lunch and materials but level. He also thinks every congregation needs a well- network. Not only are there the Federal Emergency Conference Treasurer Tony Prestipino said a house. For a church such as Washing- to change the law. ministry is encouraged to attend the does not include hotel reservations. thought-out disaster response plan and coordinator. Management Agency and a S.C. Emergency Manage- comprehensive plan would also enable the conference ton Street United Methodist Church, event, which will be held April 19-21 To register or receive information “A grease fire in the church kitchen is a disaster; ment Director at the state level and in every county, itself to remain up and running in a disaster, account- Columbia, which Cooper attends, that A ‘revolution’ in the energy market in the Chicago area. about discounted hotel rates, visit a tornado which levels an entire town is a disaster,” but also there are state, regional and national branches ing things like data storage, for instance. cost is far more. According to state law, only util- The boot camp is designed to www.umcnic.org, email jsiaba@ Wood said. “We are called by God to respond effec- of VOAD (Volunteers Organizations Active in Di- “If we’re not able to operate, then how are we able Columbia College, one of four Unit- ity companies can sell energy. Since teach attendees what they need to umcnic.org or call 312-346-9766, ext. tively to all sizes of disaster – to be good stewards of saster), which are populated by faith-based and other to respond to help others?” Prestipino said, noting any ed Methodists higher education institu- the early 1970s, these utilities – Duke survive and succeed in the first year 724. the property we own and good caregivers to those who groups like the UMC. Understanding their roles and organization needs to have a disaster response plan, tions in the state, have used solar panels Energy, SCE&G, Santee Cooper and are victims.” Page 10, April 2013 Advocate Advocate Other News Page 11, April 2013 Clergy sexual ethics trainings Clergy Orders Gathering Stories by the Lakeshore with to explore issues in the church By Allison Trussell tice from Pfeiffer University introduced Donald Davis set for Lake Junaluska a Clergy Health Initiative that South By Jessica Connor • May 23 (Charleston, Orangeburg, LAKE JUNALUSKA, N.C. – Re- School, a retired United Method- From a new perspective of ministry Carolina clergy are being invited to Walterboro districts), St. George UMC, nowned storyteller Donald Davis ist pastor and a former chair of the to wellness to future financial stabil- join as the pilot group. When it comes to sexual ethics in the St. George will perform in Stuart Auditorium Board of Directors for the National ity, the clergy of South Carolina were “You’ve got to take care of yourself church, what’s OK and what’s not OK? A makeup date is planned for June 1 during the 2013 Lake Junaluska Storytellers Association. “Finding the Way Forward” during the in order to take care of your flock,” Jus- Clergy from across the S.C. Confer- for those who cannot attend the above Centennial Celebration opening He has been a featured teller at bi-annual Clergy Orders Gathering, tice told the group, recalling a clergy ence of The United Methodist Church trainings. presentation. the Smithsonian Institution and the held March 14 at Lexington United friend of his who would and did do will gather to discuss that in tri-district While the training is a requirement, Set for April 18 at 7:30 p.m., this World’s Fair, and at festivals and Methodist Church, Lexington. everything for everyone but nothing quadrennial sexual ethics trainings with something much greater is at stake, said performance is free to the public. It concerts throughout the nation and The Rev. Mike Selleck, executive for himself. He died last fall far too Darryl Stephens, of the United Method- the Rev. Ken Nelson, chair of the con- will also be available for viewing world. director of the North Georgia Annual young, Justice said. The program will ist Commission on the Status and Role ference Board of Ordained Ministry. via live streaming that evening at He is also a prolific author and Conference Connectional Ministry and educate participants on nutrition, stress of Women. “As clergy, we want to be worthy www.lakejunaluska.com/streaming. producer of books and tapes of his a friend of Bishop Jonathan Holston, management and urge surfing as well The training, which is mandatory of the sacred trust that we are often Born in Southern Appalachia, works. proposed that while our congregations as exercise. The 10-day program, to be for clergy, will cover four modules: 1) granted,” Nelson said. “All that we Davis has told stories all his life. “The kick off presentation will be may not be large – a majority have held this summer at Lake Junaluska, Boundaries, power and vulnerability; do as clergy is based upon people’s “I didn’t learn stories, I just ab- a great evening of storytelling that fewer than 100 people in worship – will focus on the total wellness of its 2) Pulpit, transference, hugging/touch- perceptions and beliefs that we are sorbed them,” he said as he recount- will highlight who and what Lake they are vital. The younger generation participants, not just the health. Holston ing and intimacy; 3) Dating, friendship, trustworthy. Clergy are people of sacred ed tales and more tales learned from Junaluska is about,” said Bishop won’t commit, but they’ll cherry-pick has endorsed the program and hopes to dual relationships and gifts; and 4) trust, and we want to honor that sacred a family of traditional storytellers Lawrence McCleskey, Centennial from multiple churches, he said. Wor- be one of the May participants. Personal needs and self-care. trust by learning and exercising healthy who have lived on the same Western Celebration program chair. “During ship needs to be excellent because it is The Rev. David Anderson and Paula Trainings run 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. boundaries in every situation or cir- North Carolina land since 1781. the week of June 30 through July 7, the place people come into the church, Whitbeck spoke to the group about Bishop Jonathan Holston introduces the Rev. Scott Middleton, CEO of Agape Senior, to and will take place as follows: cumstance. Pastoral credibility must be “My family has lived in Haywood we will have an exciting lineup of but also from where people are going pensions and their financial futures. speak about the Clergy Health Initiative. • May 20 (Anderson, Greenville, earned and not assumed. Our laity de- County since way before it was preachers, music, tours of the origi- out. Now is the time to make these deci- Spartanburg districts), Mauldin UMC, serve nothing less than clergy in whom Haywood County,” Davis said. “My nal Junaluska homes, reunions and The Rev. Scott Middleton and Lisa sions, they noted. Mauldin they can believe.” dad and his brothers and sisters were performances by the Lake Junaluska Livingston from Agape Senior and the Holston closed the meeting with a Photos • May 21 (Columbia, Greenwood, In addition to a presentation from all at the opening ceremony at Lake Singers and Balsam Range.” Rev. Dana McKim and Dr. Blake Jus- communion service. by Allison Rock Hill districts), Gordon Memorial Stephens, the trainings will include Junaluska in 1913, so I have a lot of For more information about the Trussell UMC, Winnsboro videos, breakout sessions and question- history with Lake Junaluska.” 2013 Centennial Celebration, visit • May 22 (Florence, Hartsville, Mar- answer time. To sign up: 803-243-8162 Davis is a graduate of Duke Divinity www.lakejunaluska.com/100. ion districts), Central UMC, Florence or [email protected].

Rev. Scott Middle- ton, CEO of Agape Senior, introduces the Clergy Health Initia- tive, a new program developed by Pfeiffer University and Agape.

The Rev. Dewitt Livingston (left) speaks to the Rev. Bobby Gordon during a break in the Clergy Orders meeting. The Rev. Brandon Fulmer is on the right. Photos by Matt Brodie

Alpha Phi Alpha welcomes Bishop Holston The South Carolina chapters of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity hosted a welcome reception March 15 at Columbia College for new S.C. UMC Bishop Jonathan Holston. In addition to Holston and Columbia College President Elizabeth Dinndorf, the reception included a host of dignitaries, including college board members and fraternity leaders, such as Lee Bines, James Blassingame, Adrian West, Scott Gibbs and Joseph Heyward. At left, Dinndorf brings greetings to those gathered. At center, Holston delivers remarks. At right, Holston mingles with supporters who turned out to welcome him to the conference. Nominees for conference 2013 awards due April 1 April 1 is the last date to nominate members, 4) emphasis on youth minis- may not have the best statistical record person who has performed outstanding outstanding clergy and laity in the tries that demonstrate growth and 5) all and may be from any size church. service in working for racial justice. conference for awards to be presented apportionments paid in full for 2012, or Nominees’ lifestyles bring honor to Laity or clergy of the S.C. conference The Rev. Mike Selleck, executive director of the at the 2013 Annual Conference. a 25 percent increase in apportionment Christ, the church and works in ways are eligible if she or he has shown a North Georgia Annual Conference Connectional Awards to be given are the Bishop’s payments compared to 2011. Data for that are in keeping with the United strong commitment to Christian social Ministries, speaks to the Clergy Orders March 14. Selleck told the group that while the UM is a large Five Star Award, the Denman Evange- the awards are based on 2012 statistics. Methodist history and traditions. justice for at least five years (unless denomination, it is mostly made up of small mem- lism Award, the Barbara Boltinghouse Recognition will be given to the pastor The Barbara Boltinghouse Bridge the individual is a youth). Specific Lisa Livingston talks to the Rev. bership churches. Bridge Builder Award, the Michael C. and one layperson at a breakfast during Builder Award, named after a UMC efforts toward elimination of racism Kristen Richardson-Frick before Watson Volunteer in Mission Award Annual Conference. deaconess, is given to a person or and/or building inclusiveness and/or speaking on the new Clergy and the Joseph Benjamin Bethea Dis- The Denman Evangelism Award, organization in the S.C. Conference empowerment of persons considered Health Initiative. tinguished Service Award. established in 1980 by The Foundation who has built bridges of understanding a minority (racially or ethnically) is a The purpose of the Bishop’s Five for Evangelism, honors pastors and lay- by promoting equity and inclusive- criterion, as is Christian character and Star Award is to provide an incentive persons for responsible evangelism in ness without regard to race, gender, servanthood. for churches to embrace new ministries the local church. In 1981, the national age, handicap or economic condition. All forms for nominations are found each year geared toward growth and award was introduced to annual confer- It is sponsored by the Commission on on the conference website www.umcsc. outreach. The award enables small and ences to choose a clergyperson and a Religion and Race. org (go to “Resources,” then “Awards large churches to receive recognition. layperson each year. The Michael C. Watson Volunteer in and Scholarships). The Rev. Todd Criteria include 1) an increase in Sun- The Denman Evangelism Award Mission Award recognizes clergy and Nominations for any of the above Davis and the Rev. Julie Songer day school attendance and/or enhance- honors people who are effective in laypersons who exemplify extraordi- awards should be sent to Connectional Belman take a ment of Christian Education ministry, making disciples of Jesus Christ. This nary volunteer mission service within Ministries, 4908 Colonial Drive, Co- moment to catch 2) a “new work” that impacts growth, can involve speaking, personal witness- the S.C. Conference. lumbia, SC 29203. up during the 3) members received by profession of ing, inspiring the church to be involved The Joseph Benjamin Bethea Distin- Deadline for all submissions is April March 14 meet- ing. faith or rededication, one for every 100 in evangelism, etc. This person may or guished Service Award is presented to a 1. Page 12, April 2013 Ministries & Missions Advocate Advocate Ministries & Missions Page 13, April 2013 Greenville District again to help ‘Stop Hunger Now’ The Idea Exchange For the second year in a row of district-wide com- host church. food pantries mitment to hunger relief, the Greenville District of As of the Advocate’s press time, $30,000 of the All ages, starting at age 4, can help. Take it and run with it! the S.C. Conference will hold a Stop Hunger Now goal has been raised. A golf tournament will also help benefit the hunger meal packaging event. Help is needed: relief event, set for March 30 at 11:30 a.m. at the Set for April 13 from 7:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m., the •Pray for the event and for the hungry Hejaz Golf Curse in Mauldin. For more information Love has no language barrier daylong event will require 1,200 volunteers pack- •Give funds to help the event meet its dollar goal about the tournament, visit www.advent-umc.org/ ing 285,000 meals, all for a cost of $78,000. Advent •Serve in one or more of the meal-packing shifts transform/moreways/stop_hunger_now/stop_ On July 1, I began my appointment as the pastor from the Angel Tree project, which has been part United Methodist Church, Simpsonville, will serve as •Donate non-perishable food items to help local hunger_now_golf_tournament/. of the West Metro Hispanic Mission. It was a time of their program for the last three years. More than of transition from being an independent mission to 80 children received clothes, toys and books. It was being part of the Mount Hebron United Methodist a morning of joy and creativity as the Rev. Mandy Church family. Young gathered together volunteers who provided Native American Ministries We felt so blessed to have the hospitality of the the children with opportunities to decorate cookies, church that opened their doors and their hearts to make Christmas cards and take pictures with Santa. their Hispanic brothers and sisters, offering a space The churches of the West Metro Cluster (Mount Native American Ministries Sunday: Schedule your date in advance to study Scripture and worship God in our native Hebron, Brookland, Platt Spring, Cayce, Trinity and In accordance with the United Meth- month since it is Native American Heri- mile with a maximum of two cars per the money is being used by the com- language. Shiloh UMCs) came together for the first day of Las odist Book of Discipline, Para. 816(6), tage Month for the United States. drum through 2013. In 2014, mileage mittee and within the conference. All In one of our meetings with the church’s Hispan- Posadas for the third year in a row. The procession “Native American Ministries Sunday After the first presentation at a will increase to .50 per mile. If the offering money is sent directly to the ic Guidance Committee, the Rev. Tim Rogers asked ended at Trinity UMC, where we celebrated the shall be observed with an offering, pref- church, subsequent years include tra- distance is great enough that the drums conference office, attention Gail Corn. the group about their feelings regarding the transi- birth of Jesus Christ and enjoyed a typical dinner erably on the Third Sunday of Easter.” ditional storytelling, the potter’s clay have an overnight stay, the church All speakers arranged by the com- tion to Mount Hebron UMC. Their answers were, prepared for the West Metro Hispanic Mission. As a result, Native American Minis- story, the challenge of being Indian and would have to make arrangements or mittee are approved by the conference. “We feel part of the church,” “We feel included,” I feel blessed to be part of the Mount Hebron tries Sunday is traditionally the second Christian, histories of Catawba, Pee cover the overnight cost. Again, this However, a church may elect to get “Our children are participating in the Sunday family as we continue responding to the biblical Sunday after Easter. The Native Ameri- Dee and other South Carolina tribes, can only be requested after a church their own American Indian speaker. school,” and other manifestations of gratitude for mandate: “Always be eager to practice hospitality” Photo by Jaime Montero The churches of the West Metro Cluster (Mount Hebron, can Committee provides speakers for and flute and hand drum music. They has its first official Sunday presented If he or she is not a United Methodist the opportunity. (Romans 12:13). Brookland, Platt Spring, Cayce, Trinity and Shiloh Native American Ministries Sunday, can work with your needs. by our committee. We recommend this pastor or certified lay speaker by this At Christmas, the church offered a breakfast for – Submitted by the UMCs) came together for the first day of Las Posadas making this date the most requested They also offer the option of having special request for the third or fourth conference, you must obtain permission the community where the children received gifts Rev. Sonia Ely Brum for the third year in a row. date. With a limited number of speak- a Native drum come to your church Native American Ministries Sunday for from your district superintendent for ers, this date books sometimes a year and provide praise drumming as the a church. Priority is given to churches this person to speak. in advance. As a result, NAC conducts message for the service. Two different where this is their third or fourth year Native American Ministries Sun- Native American Ministries Sunday native drum groups can be scheduled due to limited availability of the drums. day is important to the conference and throughout the entire year. to drum. However, since each drum has The NAC also provides Native domination. Let’s live by open hearts, The Idea Exchange Pastors or Native American repre- a minimum of three to four drummers American Ministries Sunday offering open minds and open doors. sentatives simply have to call and set and most are not committee members, envelopes. These can be obtained at no To arrange a Native American Min- Take it and run with it! up a date that matches both the church’s there is a cost to the church with this cost by contacting Robin Landers at istries Sunday, call 803-905-5672 or schedule and the speaker’s. The NAC one specific request only. The cost is the conference center: 803-786-9486. [email protected]. is asking that you place this special $150 for the drum plus .24 cents per These offering envelopes explain how – Z. Tracy Pender Family night helps those in need Sunday on your church calendar and observe this event. For family night this January, Fos- It was a great way to get the church The purpose of Native American ter’s Chapel United Methodist Church involved in doing something for those Ministries Sunday is to provide educa- in Jonesville made flood buckets for in need. tion about American Indian tradition, disaster relief. – Submitted by Tiffany Smith culture, spirituality and inclusion in The church wanted to do some- our conference. Even today, American thing to give back to those in need Indians are often questioned whether with the money left over after reach- they worship the same God or if they ing their annual budget needs. They are going to do something “strange” if made it a fun project for families to do they come and speak at your church. together. There were 24 buckets put At Native American Ministries Sunday, together for disaster relief consisting they address these myths and stereo- of sponges, rope, cleaning supplies, Family night got a fun twist at Foster’s Chapel UMC with the types. They explore American Indians’ gloves, trash bags, clothes pins, insect assembly of 24 flood buckets for history. They address Native spiritual- repellant, and more. disaster relief. ity. They identify the obstacles facing American Indians today. They advise on what the NAC does within the A few spaces remain for UMW mission trip to Henderson Settlement conference and the outreach it provides to the tribes of South Carolina and The trip is for any woman who is helping out in the greenhouses to stuff- vide their own linens. Meals will be beyond. $1 Trip is April 15-19 “mission minded” and does not neces- ing envelopes to processing donations. provided in the dining hall. It promises One of John Wesley’s major mis- Per Member sarily have to be a member of UMW. The evening programs include a pre- to be a fun and fellowship-oriented few sions was outreach to American Indi- South Carolina’s United Methodist The cost is $350 per person. sentation on the mission and on Appala- days. Space is limited and filling up ans. He went where others would not Women will head to Henderson Settle- The daily schedule will be as fol- chian culture, including music. fast, so please get in contact as soon as go. Native American Ministries Sunday ment in Frakes, Ky., April 15-19, and lows: morning meditations, breakfast, There will be plenty of space with possible if you’re interested. offers nurturing outreach to Native That’s how little it costs there are still a few spaces available as work, lunch, work, dinner, and evening bunk beds for each member and two To sign up, contact Jane Scott at 803- Americans and provides scholarships of the Advocate’s press time. program. The work will range from large bathrooms. Members must pro- 425-9121 or [email protected]. for United Methodist Native American seminarians. It provides support for your church to have a one-year Surfside UMC reaches out to local hungry through Give-A-Meal-A-Month urban outreach ministries and provides connection across the conference. online subscription to the Advocate SURFSIDE – For the past year and a meal plans are communicated to the designated collection area in the church. especially for families with children, Half of the money raised stays in this state. It provides a means to maintain half, Surfside United Methodist Church, church in a variety of ways: shopping Volunteers transfer the bags to the local were missing from these donations. HOW IT WORKS: You send us $1 multiplied by the average weekly attendance as reported in the Con- in coordination with South Strand lists stuffed in a bright yellow GAMAM food pantry the following morning. In partnership with the local pan- and re-establish cultural traditions, ference Journal. If you have 150 members as your average weekly attendance, then it’s just $150. (Big Helping Hand, has been using the bag, weekly bulletin, monthly newslet- Since beginning GAMAM, Surfside has try, Clayton developed the GAMAM regalia, and other needs for the tribes. Give-A-Meal-A-Month program, a food ter and on a display case somewhere in collected more than four tons of food. program, a congregation-based monthly It provides for worship outreach. It pro- churches, don’t worry: $1,000 max.) Then every month, we email you the pdf of the Advocate, and you donation/collection initiative designed the church. The GAMAM program was the food donation program that incorpo- vides for medical needs and services. email it directly to your members. You retain control of your list – no sharing or privacy issues! to provide local pantries with healthy, Church members take one of the vision of Joyce Clayton, a member of rates components of complete meals. Thus, the money is greatly needed. meal-focused donations. GAMAM bags home along with the Webster Groves Presbyterian Church The program has since been taken to There is no cost to obtain a NAC A GAMAM partnership is formed monthly menu and fill the bags. Al- in Missouri. After countless volunteer many churches and was brought to speaker, but assistance with mileage It’s that easy! between a local food pantry and a though food donations are accepted at hours at a local food pantry, Clayton ob- Surfside last year by its missions coor- costs or honorariums are always ap- church. Meal plans are put together by any time, Surfside’s designated collec- served that many people donated large dinator, who discovered the program preciated. They will come regardless. Sign up today: www.advocatesc.org/home/images/churchplan.pdf the food pantry based on their specific tion day is Food Sunday, the first Sun- quantities of canned goods (such as while visiting a church in Virginia. They are willing to work with a church needs. Menus are designed to provide day of the month. Participants bring the green beans) to local food pantries, but To learn more about the GAMAM to schedule this Sunday any time dur- or contact us at 888-678-6272, ext. 335, or [email protected]. healthy and well-balanced meals. These yellow bags back and stack them in a that many aspects of complete meals, program, call Surfside at 843-238-2734. ing the year. November is also a good Page 14, April 2013 Ministries & Missions Advocate Advocate Ministries & Missions Page 15, April 2013 UMW Spiritual Growth Retreat set for May

LAKE JUNALUSKA, N.C. – South women and those of other denomina- gomery Memorial UMC, Pacolet Mills. Carolina’s United Methodist Women tions. The musician will be the Rev. Ann Camp will hold a Spiritual Growth Retreat at The speaker will be Dr. Arnetta Hoyt, Burnsville, and the sign language consisted Lake Junaluska Conference and Retreat Elizabeth Beverly, senior pastor at St. interpreter will be Joann Fulton, King- of boxes, Center May 3-4 and May 4-5. Matthews United Methodist Church, stree. one The theme is “A Woman’s Place …,” Greensboro, N.C. The song leader will Registration and lodging forms are Dr. Arnetta blanket Elizabeth per person and all are welcome to attend: men, be the Rev. Kelly Gallamore, Mont- available at www.umcsc.org/umw. Beverly and a fire that didn’t do a lot to Registration going on now keep the cold away. for 21st annual Killingsworth Photo by Matt Brodie Souper Bowl Sunday, Night in a Box Golf Tournament College students help Rural Mission Students from North Carolina’s Davidson College headed to Rural Mission, Johns help raise awareness about hungry Island, in early March for an alternative spring break experience. Dozens of students COLUMBIA – Women in crisis will box lunch will be provided. Through- pitched in to help with repairs at the United Methodist Advance Special Ministry, ELGIN – The youth group of Smyrna As part of the Night in a Box experi- get some needed help thanks to the an- out the day there will be ample oppor- painting, patching and doing light carpentry to get the mission ready for volunteers United Methodist Church held an un- ence, they also fasted from breakfast nual Killingsworth Golf Tournament, tunity for winning prizes and engaging and home rehabilitation work later in the spring. For more on Rural Mission’s efforts usual event to raise money for hunger Saturday morning until Communion on set for Monday, April 29, at Indian in fun fellowship, all while supporting to help low-income people in need of adequate housing in the Lowcountry, visit www. relief with a Souper Bowl “Night in a Souper Bowl Sunday. ruralmission.org. River Golf Club. Killingsworth. Box.” Thanks to sponsorships they solicit- Proceeds from the 21st annual Registration deadline is April 24; the The youth spent the Saturday before ed, nine youth and five adults raised not tournament will help Killingsworth, a nonrefundable registration fee is $60. Souper Bowl Sunday outside, in the only awareness in the community about United Methodist mission that sup- Priority is given to those who register Come Together Be Together elements. They had breakfast Saturday hunger, but also $1,058 – and money is ports, empowers and advocates for as teams, but you can register individu- morning, participated in a Service Blitz still coming in. CROP Walk project, then headed back to the church WLTX news filmed the camp and About 70 people participated in a CROP Walk recently at First UMC, Easley. CROP women recovering from various life ally, or in partial teams, and be put into Annual UMW conference gathering set for May stands for Communities Responding to Overcome Poverty. The church’s newly reor- crises within a safe, nurturing and whole teams on the day of the tourna- to set up camp. helped spread the word to the larger ganized United Methodist Men group came out in full force for the event, and to date, Christian environment. ment. ORANGEBURG – United Method- District superintendent. Camp consisted of boxes, one blan- Columbia community. The experience more than $3,800 has been raised. First had the most walkers participating in their Tee time is at 10 a.m., and partici- For more information, call 803-771- ist Women from across the state will In addition to a word from Leonard- ket per person and a fire that didn’t do a left the youth vowing to do what they local event and raised the most money. pants should arrive an hour prior. A 6359. gather Saturday, May 18, for the Ray, the event will feature workshops, lot to keep the cold away. could to help those in need. group’s annual “Come Together Be activities and lunch to make for a fun Together” event. and festive day. Women are encour- Cook Out for Kids barbecue to benefit Epworth kids “Come Together, Be Together” will aged to invite and register their friends, COLUMBIA – Barbecue, live music Home Alumni Association, the fund- Main Street Connection band will pro- last. take place at Edisto Fork United Meth- as well. and antique cars will pepper the lawn raiser will take place from 11 a.m. to 4 vide music. Barbecue chicken or pork There will also be a bake sale of- odist Church. Registration is $12 if postmarked by at Epworth Children Home April 27 as p.m. at Epworth in Columbia. plates with fixings can be purchased fering desserts, plus “Palmetto A’s” With the theme “Living the Heart April 24 and $15 if postmarked after. supporters gather for the fifth annual Award-winning cooks will offer for $10, or whole Boston Butts for $30. Vintage Model A Fords. of God,” participants are encouraged The last day to register is May 8. Cook Out for Kids. what organizers call “some of the best You can preorder to guarantee your For more information: epworth to dress in red and wear heart-shaped For the registration form and more Offered by the Epworth Children’s barbecue in South Carolina,” and the meal or order on site, while supplies [email protected]. accessories. Keynote speaker will be information, visit www.umcsc.org/ the Rev. Susan Leonard-Ray, Anderson umw.

Epworth News Feeding the needy one meal at a time The Rev. Pattie E. Gordon and the Asbury United Methodist Positive trends in church giving Men have put a recent confer- ence Hungrief Ministry grant United Methodist increased sup- families unless a fee for service is to good use. The church used the $500 grant to feed the port for God’s work through the assured. Epworth continues to accept needy one meal at a time. The Photo by Ken Perrine ministry of Epworth Children’s Home children and provide top quality care church’s UMM fed the Shiloh St. John’s Missions Impact by $109,541.59 in 2012. This is an irregardless of family circumstances. Community at Asbury UMC The sixth annual Missions Impact Celebration was successfully completed at St. increase of 8.14 percent compared to As this article is being written there in Lynchburg Feb. 2 (fed 57 John’s UMC, Aiken, with 25 missionaries representing 19 missions from near and far. 2011 totals. are 82 children living on Epworth’s people) and March 2 (fed 63 Pictured at the Thursday Night Kick Off “Welcome Home” Celebration are Orangeburg people). The UMM coupled with The church support goal of a mini- campus. Many of these children are District Superintendent the Rev. Frederick Yebuah (front row, left); Dr. Kennon L. Cal- women from the church, said lahan (second row, left); Dr. Ray Litts, nurture pastor, St. John’s UMC (back row, left); mum of $6 per member was reached placed at Epworth by the Department they enjoyed the opportunity to Dr. George K. Howle, head pastor, St. John’s UMC (center); Felicia Holston, bishop’s for the first time. The average per mem- of Social Services, and with each child feed their neighbors a healthy, wife (second row, right); Dr. Alan Weatherly, Asbury UMC, Huntsville, Ala. (back row, ber contribution was $6.18. This is an comes board payment that covers ap- filling meal. right); and S.C. UMC Bishop Jonathan Holston (far right). increase of 47 cents per member. proximately one-third of the cost of There were 235,501 United Method- their care. ists in South Carolina and 1,014 United Many other children are not in the Methodist congregations. During 2012, custody of any public agency and ar- $1,455,052.89 was received from rive at Epworth as private placements. The Idea Exchange and/or credited to United Methodist It is rare that anyone associated with Churches in our conference. The dona- a child who arrives as a private place- Take it and run with it! tions from congregations ranged from ment is able to provide any financial $15 to $45,439.01. support for the child, yet no child is Another positive trend is the number ever denied admission because of an ‘Appointed Scriptures and Prayers’ help deepen Holy Week of congregations that did not participate inability to pay for care and services. During 2011 and 2012, I prepared a tribute to Holy Week 2013. from the Bible passages. Holy Week and to offer people a path in supporting the children of Epworth Because of the support from thou- booklet of reflections from the Scrip- The project for 2013 is different in “Praying the Scriptures,” as I un- to connecting through meditations decreased from 246 to 239. In the past sands of United Methodists in South tures listed in “The Revised Common format from the previous two years derstand it, means to meditate on and during a holy period of reflection and eight years, 93 additional congregations Carolina, our conference’s outreach to Lectionary” for Holy Week. Each day and is called “Appointed Scriptures pray a verse or passage of Scripture. worship. New insights into the Scrip- have been added to the “supporting children remains strong. of Holy Week included a copy of one and Prayers.” The publication in- The prayers in “Appointed Scriptures tures and stimulation to pray each day congregations” list. The goal is to enlist Volunteer support from church of the appointed readings and a reflec- cludes a listing of all four scriptures and Prayers” are not literally “praying to live in God’s will are my wishes for every congregation as a contributing or groups continues to grow. tion based on the reading. from the lectionary (from the Old Tes- the Scriptures,” but emanate from my brothers and sisters also on the road to “supporting congregation.” Volunteers build, repair, clean, en- My need was to contribute to spiri- tament, Psalms, New Testament and studying and praying about the four alignment with God’s plan. Strong denominational support gage in activities with children, mentor, tual growth in the life of my church, Gospels) for each day of Holy Week. Scriptures appointed in the lectionary To participate in the readings and enables Epworth to accept children tutor and provide a variety of other ser- Little River United Methodist Church, Each Scripture listed is followed by for each day of Holy Week 2013. prayers for 2013, follow the link at without regard to their financial cir- vices that help the children at Epworth in Little River. Feedback from mem- my brief summary of the content of My primary reasons for successive www.lrumc.net, or email dwm329@ cumstances. Fewer and fewer child have positive and joyful experiences bers was positive, so I prayed and the passage. The Scripture summaries Holy Week projects are to encour- rocketmail.com to request a copy. serving organizations are able to admit that would not otherwise be thought about how and what to con- for each day lead to a prayer drawn age a deeper focus on the “holy” in – Submitted by Dan Moore or provide service for children and possible. Page 16, April 2013 Viewpoints Advocate Advocate Viewpoints Page 17, April 2013

Connectional Conversation Clergy Tax What If? The Congregational Development Question Lay servants head to by the Rev. Kathy James by Doug Neal, CPA by the Rev. Sara White Nashville for Holy Spirit work Pulling it all together Creation of community convocation There was nowhere else to turn and world to what God intended wherever n this month’s column, I would sation, she has already saved $4,402 hen the February meet- moved gracefully – and I use the work untouchable objects is not disclosed and Individuals from 40 different nowhere else to go. we can. like to take a moment to illustrate in taxes ($2,596 + $1,445 + $361) thus ing of the Conference intentionally – to create a place where the family history unpublished. The par- conferences across America came My body knew all the pain a body can As United Methodists we share how some of the strategies we far. Since Sally would have spent this Committee on Congre- worship offerings can be adjusted to ticulars belong to this congregation, but together to celebrate servanthood, know, the mission of making disciples of have discussed in previous issues money in taxes if she had not reallo- gational Development meet the needs of newcomers; where the story is a shared one among many learn from each other and dream When I quietly turned to you. I quietly Jesus Christ for the transformation of Ican work together as a cohesive plan cated her compensation package, we Wcompleted the awarding of grants to objects formerly considered “untouch- South Carolina United Methodists. dreams through intensive study, turned to you. the world. In our local churches, our for improving your overall financial suggest that she contribute the $4,402 local congregations, it was obvious that able” can not only be touched but Henri Nouwen in “Clowning in worship, discussions and cama- Help of the helpless, I turned to you. clusters and our districts, we are called position, while limiting your overall to her salary reduction (PIP) retirement in the work of congregational develop- moved to make way for new furnish- Rome” reflects on the creation of raderie at the 2013 Association to ask the question, “What in our com- tax liability. plan. This, again, saves around $1,589 ment, stereotypes do not apply. ings that serve the needs of guests unfa- community. It’s become usual to hear of Conference Directors for Lay When no one else would help and no munities is in need of God’s transform- During January, February and in ordinary and SECA taxes. Represented among the 12 applica- miliar with the “family history”; where people referring to church communi- Servant Ministries Convocation. one else could hear ing work?” Wherever we encounter March, we discussed tax planning and Sally then decides to open a ROTH tions considered were two formerly long-time members serve not as church ties rather than congregations; I know The theme was “Equipping Lay My cries full of anguish, my cries full systems and situations that keep people how watching out for W-2 errors can IRA with the savings of $1,589 and rural parishes that are now a part of sub- experts but as church leaders. because I have used the term often in Servant Ministries for All Facets of fear, from experiencing fullness of life, potentially cost you a lot of money in puts this money to work for her tax- urban life, two congregations trying to The funding request from your ap- the past. I’ve intentionally not used the of Ministry.” Of the 93 registered I quietly turned to you. I quietly turned we find opportunities for transforma- taxes. We also discussed how properly free. Let’s see how the old and the new navigate the new reality of small town portionment giving was intended by this term for this occasion, partially because directors, 46 were first-time par- to you. tion. We can pray for God’s guidance, utilizing the housing exclusion, de- scenarios compare: South Carolina; two congregations congregation to further the creation of of Nouwen’s work, which moves from ticipants. Hope of the hopeless, I turned to you. learn about the issue before us in all its pendent care reimbursement account, looking to move into new visions of this graceful place where newcomers, a consideration of our solitude to a Attending from South Carolina complexity and make a commitment to medical reimbursement account and Old: life with new people, five rural parishes who come in joy or who come in pain, definition of true community. He says, were Jackie G. Jenkins, confer- As I quietly turned to you, you turned participate in needed changes. your retirement/pension plan can help Cash Compensation: $50,335 seeking assistance in maximizing their can find a visual energy not only in the “We come to know our fellow human ence director; Anna Feagin, Rock to me. Sometimes that might mean joining reduce your tax liability, thereby allow- Housing/Utilities Allowance: $10,000 presence and support of their communi- living out of worship but also in the beings not as partners who can satisfy Hill District co-director; and Kris As you quietly turned to me … Friend the PTA, writing letters to legislators, ing you to accumulate more wealth for Total Allowed: $60,335 ties and one congregation moving into actions of the congregation who pro- our deepest needs, but as brothers and Bergmann and Constance Wilborn, of the Friendless, even running for office. Or it might retirement. Wealth Gained through PIP ministry life with the new residents of vide welcome in word and action. The sisters with whom we are called to give co-directors from the Charleston You turned to me. mean covenanting with one another to Let’s put real numbers with these and ROTH Contributions: $-- their community who knew nothing of requests of this particular congregation visibility to God’s all embracing love,” District. not listen to or tell jokes that solidify strategies to help illustrate these points its textile background. were all about communication. How- and, “Community is not a common Part of the event involved the Your love let me live again. stereotypes. It might mean confronting further and see why they can be so New: In one congregation, moving into the ever, like most thriving congregations, ideology, but a response to a common discussion of the change in the Your love set me free. a bully or changing the way decisions beneficial to clergy. Cash Compensation: $29,133 community has meant stepping outside the request was to add to an already call.” United Methodist Book of Disci- Help of the helpless, friend of the are made in the church council. Housing/Utility Allowance: $21,800 not just the building but the comfort- existing and already strong foundation What if our congregations can be the pline of Lay “Servant” Ministries friendless, The key is that our action be rooted Sally Sample Client Dependent Care: $4,000 able assumptions about who belongs of this congregation. place where community is lived within and understanding the require- I quietly turned to you … and you in our understanding of who Jesus is Sally comes in and asks how she Medical Reimbursement: $1,000 here and what do we do to live life with This particular request set me to and without our walls? What would ments of the subtitle Lay “Speak- turned to me. and what God’s desire is for wholeness should structure her compensation Retirement: $4,402 these neighbors. How do we live out thinking about what we are teaching we be teaching our neighbors about ing” Ministries. Emphasis was in the world. package. Her package as provided by Total Allowed: $60,335 the church’s life when we are living people outside our walls about the church? given to these changes to enable hese partial lyrics are from One definition of an advocate is “a the church looks like the following: Wealth Gained through PIP with people who have no idea of how a church and its members. For privacy White is the director of congrega- conference and district directors the song “I Quietly Turned to person who pleads for or in behalf of Cash Compensation: $50,335 and ROTH Contributions: $503,759* church is supposed to behave? purposes, I leave the particulars of tional development for the S.C. Confer- to return home and clearly explain You” from the musical “Cel- another; intercessor.” In the Gospel Housing/Utilities Allowance: This particular congregation has individual identity, the identity of the ence. and share the impact of these ebrate Life!” that I partici- of John, Jesus tells the disciples that $10,000 *Uses contributions of $499/month, changes with laity teams, confer- Tpated in as a teenager in my church’s when he leaves, the Holy Spirit, the Total Allowed: $60,335 which is $4,402 plus $1,589 divided ence representatives, clergy and youth choir. This song gives voice to advocate, will come to be with them. by 12 months, over 30 years earning district superintendents. Mary Magdalene telling Jesus what her In Paul’s letter to the Romans, he says, Drawing on the strategies mentioned an illustrated, and non-guaranteed rate UMWomen: Turning faith, hope, love into action This transition from Lay Speak- life was like before joining with Jesus “Likewise the Spirit helps us in our above, we first look at her housing. of return, of 6 percent per annum. This ing Ministries to Lay Servant and the disciples. weakness; for we do not know how to Does it cover all of her expenses? After projection is not intended to represent Ministries will provide unifying, As these words and the haunting pray as we ought, but that very Spirit totaling her anticipated clergy housing any guaranteed results and actual re- by Linda J. DuRant positive opportunities that will al- melody that accompanies them move intercedes with sighs too deep for expenditures for the year, it is evident sults will vary. low laity to become aware of pos- through my memory, I am reminded of words” (Romans 8:26). that her true housing expenses are sibilities for working side by side the church’s calling to be the hands and A popular United Methodist hymn, about $21,000. To cover the difference And the best part about this is that A truly spiritual event with clergy in promoting the good feet of Jesus in the world. As Jesus was “Here I Am Lord,” says: between the $10,000 she designated for Sally was able to decrease her overall news of Christ. friend of the friendless and hope of the I the Lord of snow and rain, housing and what she typically spends, tax liability while increasing her retire- s the largest denomina- A spiritual journey is a quest. We You can be replenished with a new Another segment of the confer- hopeless, so are we called to be. As the I have born my people’s pain. we reduce her cash compensation and ment savings and growing more wealth tional faith organization for search for something to complete us, infusion from the Holy Spirit. You can ence provided an overview of three body of Christ, we are also called to be I have wept for love of them. They turn increase her housing/utilities allowance for retirement – all without spending women, United Methodist to engage us and to make us grow. As find new revelation about the next step new courses coming this year. a voice for those without a voice in our away. to $21,800 to cover these needs. This any additional money out of pocket. Women has approximately we begin our Christian journey, we God wants you to take in faith. You can Attendees were availed the oppor- communities and society. I will break their hearts of stone. results in tax savings of $2,596. Utilizing these simple strategies can A800,000 members across the country have an immediate high. We’re excited take a break from service and practice tunity to review these new courses Give them hearts for love alone. Sally also has dependent care ex- save a great deal in taxes while increas- whose mission is fostering spiritual about new birth and a connection with humility by being served by others. and were given insights on the new Advocacy work in the church is the I will speak My word to them, penses for which she spends $4,000 per ing your retirement investments. Be growth, developing leaders and advo- Christ. You can be reminded of the joy of your courses from the courses’ authors. ministry of giving voice to the voice- Whom shall I send? year. We reduce Sally’s cash compen- sure that as you fill out your next min- cating for justice. Becoming a member of United salvation, who God is and what God They also were allotted time to less in our society. We do this work Jesus calls his followers to enter sation by $4,000 and put this money isterial support form, you keep these As does any good organization, Methodist Women for many of us is a has done for you. visit General Board of Discipleship because we believe that God cares for into our complex, messy world and into a pretax dependent care reimburse- strategies in mind and see how you can United Methodist Women has a “mis- springboard to a deeper more spiritual The most important benefit to a re- and the Upper Room Bookstore. those who are hurting, vulnerable and make a difference in the lives of hun- ment account. This alone saves Sally wrap them all together to ensure you sion statement,” only we call it “The relationship with God. treat, however – and the one we should They heard, saw and reviewed a invisible — today’s Mary Magdalenes. gry and hurting people. How will you $1,445 in both ordinary and SECA have the best possible package working Purpose.” United Methodist Women is Spiritual growth and theological seek with intention – is meeting with wealth of resources available for We recognize that the world is not as answer his call? taxes. for you. a community of women whose purpose development are at the heart of United God. In Psalm 46:10, God tells us to the improvement and expansion of God intended it to be, and we accept Sally’s family has about $1,000 per is to know God and to experience free- Methodist Women. One of the most “Be still, and know that I am God!” their ministries. that part of the work of those who fol- James is director of Connectional year out of pocket medical expenses, Neal is president of The Neal Firm, dom as whole persons through Jesus beloved events in the South Carolina While the annual Spiritual Growth Lastly, they were involved in a low Jesus is the work of restoring the Ministries for the S.C. Conference. so she puts this amount into a medical CPA, PA, in Columbia and is a member Christ, to develop a creative supportive Conference is the annual Spiritual Retreat at Lake Junaluska is special well-planned activity in a table- reimbursement account, saving $361 in of Shandon UMC. He holds a Master fellowship, and to expand concepts of Growth Retreat at Lake Junaluska. to SCCUMW, it is open to all who group setting that engaged each ordinary and SECA taxes. of Taxation degree from the University mission through participation in the This year our retreat is May 3-4 or would seek a deeper more meaningful participant and allowed for the Just by reallocating Sally’s compen- of South Carolina. global ministries of the church. May 4-5. Our theme is “A Woman’s relationship with God and with one sharing of faith stories. The sharing Board members needed Our elected officers are called the Place...” and our speaker will be the another. of these stories combined past ex- mission team, and their role is to be Rev. Arnetta Beverly, senior pastor You will find information on reg- Lay leaders want your mission project photos periences with future aspirations. sure that “The Purpose” is carried out of St. Matthew UMC in Greensboro, istering for the retreat at www.umcsc. This exercise culminated in the for Rural Mission During Annual Conference 2013, the Leadership Development and that all of our members have op- N.C. The retreat will bring women org. Click on the Ministries tab, and go entire body hearing the stories and Do you have a heart for mission and and must live in South Carolina and Task Force of Lay Leadership (formerly Board of Laity) wants to portunities to grow in their relation to from across S.C. to sing together, pray to UMW. best practices that are taking place helping provide quality, decent housing have a passion for the 44-year-old min- highlight all the mission projects and ministries that are taking place God and to one another. No one officer together, eat together, reflect together You may also check it out in Mis- throughout many conferences. and crisis assistance for the Sea Islands’ istry’s mission and vision. People with across South Carolina. works alone; all of our areas are inter- and worship together. sion Echo, or find the registration form “This exchange gave each of rural less fortunate? expertise in finance, law, construction/ To participate, email a photo and very brief description of your connected. Retreats have multiple benefits: You under Forms. us the opportunity to obtain new Rural Mission, a United Methodist building or marketing/public relations church’s mission project, including your church name and location. Spiritual growth is one of the four can be refreshed through fellowship. We would love to have you come knowledge and skills to take home Advance Special Ministry located on are especially needed, but anyone with Photos should be sent no later than April 15 to Donald Love at areas, and it is of utmost importance. You get a break from a difficult situa- and be a part of a truly spiritual event. and help our teams do the same to Johns Island, is seeking several new a call to help is welcome. [email protected] or Lisa Livingston at llivingston@agapesenior. In order to know God, we must be in- tion. You can receive further education further enhance our ministries,” board members. To learn more or offer your help, call com. volved in both corporate and individual in The Word. You can experience the DuRant is president of S.C. Confer- Jenkins said. Board members meet once a month Rural Mission at 843-768-1720. spiritual journeys. wonder and beauty of God’s creation. ence UMW. Page 18, April 2013 Advocate Advocate Page 19, April 2013 ‘Walking in the light’ UMMen gather at beach for light-filled spiritual retreat

By Jessica Connor

MYRTLE BEACH – From Lite-Brite pegs to light-themed sermons to the giveaway flashlights tucked inside every participant’s retreat bucket, this Bishop Jonathan Holston teaches on “dreaming big” for Christ year’s United Methodist Men’s spiri- tual retreat made sure every attendee understood: it’s all about walking in the light of the Lord. At right, About 150 men headed to Spring- George Brisbon and other men listen to Turner’s Pat Long maid Beach Resort in Myrtle Beach workshop. works Feb. 22-24 for the annual event, which At right, Michael Shull with men performs old-time during the featured workshops, worship and L.W. Smith pores over his Bible for a hymns on the dulcimer Scouting Scripture passage during a workshop. Photos by plenty of fellowship all centered on and banjo Saturday as Ministry Rev. Michael Turner preaches opening worship Friday night, bring- Rev. Will Malambri teaches Rev. James Friday speaks on light – how to approach it, shine it and Jessica Connor the crowd claps on. workshop. ing a message on shining the light of God in the world. on “Approaching the Light.” leading your family in God’s light. share it with others. “Our hope is as we go through the weekend … you will truly be bathed and walking in the light of God,” said Herman Lightsey, conference UMM president, welcoming the crowd to the annual spiritual retreat. “Once you come off this mountain experience, you’ll go back to the valley, take this John Gaither, right, serves communion to bucket we gave you and little light Alan Sparks. and pass it onto someone else and fan that flame for Pentecost so we have a renewed spirit not only in United Methodist Men but in this state.” Herman The retreat featured four keynote Lightsey, speakers; Bishop Jonathan Holston, the confer- ence UMM Rev. Michael Turner, the Rev. James president, Friday and the Rev. Will Malambri, welcomes Men sing “Leaning on the Everlasting each preaching and teaching on various the crowd. Arms” during the retreat’s opening. aspects of walking in God’s light. More than anything, Lightsey said, men should take what they learn at the retreat and follow in Christ’s footsteps, spreading the word about the light in every way they can. “We do not take our light and tuck it into our pocket … but go back and wit- ness to others and fan this flame so we can have Pentecost,” Lightsey said.

See rest of the article at www. advocatesc.org. Page 20, April 2013 Education & Youth Advocate Advocate Education & Youth Page 21, April 2013 Growing Up Gold: Education Day Church-college relations Wofford event gives elementary school children a first college experience Cooking with College Place UMC and Columbia College By Jo Ann Mitchell Brasington want to be a paleontologist, but I also By Monica Henain tor and administrative assistant for College Place. A want to play basketball in college.” 30-minute communion service follows all the cooking SPARTANBURG – Wide-eyed and Wofford provided each student with COLUMBIA – What is the best way to engage stu- classes for those interested. excited, 275 fourth- and fifth-grade a goodie bag filled with prizes, includ- dents? The cooking lessons were seen as a good method students from Woodruff Elementary ing gold and black pom-poms that the To the Rev. Tiffany Knowlin of College Place to bring students together and have them work with School filed into the Benjamin Johnson students immediately pulled out and United Methodist Church, Columbia, there is nothing their hands to create a meal as a group. Knowlin said Arena at Wofford College. started waving, a program with brain like food – in particular, cooking lessons – to bring that in the Bible there are lots of stories of people They already had marveled at the teasers, a Wofford pencil, a women’s students together to learn something new and build gathering for feasts and meals, all sharing in fellow- Village apartments, wondered what it basketball poster, a coupon book and lasting relationships. ship. would be like to take classes in Main spring athletics schedules. The idea of cooking lessons came from a plan- As a student who attended one of the cooking Building and watched students walking “The bags were a nice surprise and a ning session that was held at the church. One of the lessons, I saw how the students enjoyed themselves in groups toting coffees and backpacks. nice tie in to the purpose of the event,” staff members who attended the planning session was immensely, and relationships are being strengthened For most of these 10 or 11 year olds, Brewton said. “Sure, we enjoyed Daniel Gainey, who came up with the idea of cooking between the church and the college. A 30-minute communion service follows all the cooking it was the first time they had ever been watching a quality women’s game, but lessons. Gainey is the creative arts and music direc- Henain is a senior at Columbia College. classes for those interested. on a college campus – and that was the it was about the importance of educa- point. tion, and that fact was not lost on our Growing Up Gold: Education Day Photo by Mark Olencki children.” Wesley UMC hosts Young Brothers to Men Summit brought groups of children from Wood- Members of the Girls Basketball Club at Woodruff Elementary School in Spartanburg County cheered for the Wofford women’s basketball team during the Growing Up Gold: Wofford’s Daniella Motley made a By the Rev. Lee C. Bines p.m., the summit continued, focusing The closing day of the Summit ruff, as well as Mary H. Wright, Abner Education Day game. free throw with 4.1 seconds to play to Creek Academy, Spartanburg Charter give the Terriers a 56-55 win over the Stars of Tomorrow on praying and Bible study with young began with a 7:47 a.m. teaching ses- School and homeschoolers, to Wofford exposed to our student-athletes,” In addition to the News Crew, Wood- College of Charleston. MONCKS CORNER – Young men Winners men, fathers and families. sion, carrying the theme “Teaching for a women’s basketball game and a said Lenny Mathis, assistant athletics ruff Elementary brought the entire fifth “I believe Education Day helped seeking guidance and wisdom as they 1st Place: Shaniz Ruiz Thursday was spent in prayer, study and Learning About God in High-Tech sneak peak at the future. director for marketing and promotions. grade, the special education class and propel our team to a victory,” said head grow into competent, caring men 2nd Place: Shanae Joyner and interaction with officials at the Culture.” The major resource for this 3rd Place: Akira Reed “I automatically thought, ‘what an “We’re trying to advance the number of the Girls Basketball Club. women’s coach Edgar Farmer. “Those headed to Wesley United Methodist Lieber Correctional Center, Ridgeville. session was a book by Jerome W. Ber- 4th Place: Taliyaha Kendolyn opportunity,’” said Argyl Brewton, kids in our community who are going Alayna Persails, another student new kids had such great energy, and we fed Church Feb. 27 to March 3 for the sixth This institution is ranked as one of the ryman, “Godly Play,” which details annual tri-county Young Brothers to Smalls most violent in the state. how to foster religious growth. The principal of Woodruff Elementary. to college. It’s important for them to to college campuses, wants to be an art off it as we came back in the second 5th Place: Shania Reid Men Summit. “We try to impress upon our children see something bigger than what they teacher or veterinarian when she grows half. The best part was the young man 6th Place: Diashiana Templeman On Friday, the focus was on the issue book seeks to associate the language that they should have dreams beyond see every day.” up. (Woodruff Elementary fifth grader Mi- The theme for the summit was 7th Place: Kalani Symes of communication within and among of religion with the creative process, their imagination. Experiences like this Mathis and Russ Bradley, director “I want to go to Wofford because I chael Jacobi) who did the starting line- “Restoring Young People to their Bet- 8th Place: Brittany Levine junior and senior high school culture. thus enabling youth and adults to see start an important conversation about of video services, traveled to Woodruff can check out as many books from the up introductions. He was awesome.” ter Selves.” Workshops, discussions, 9th Place: Aleyah Hamilton Nine junior and senior high school and experience God’s presence in our finishing high school and going on to Elementary before the game and met library as I want,” Persails said. Brewton hopes Wofford continues interactions and dialogue centered on students, administrators and teach- everyday lives. college.” with the school’s News Crew. Mathis Sydney Arellano was more inter- to offer Growing Up Gold: Education how to encourage, empower and direct ers assembled at Wesley UMC. Five In closing worship, great empha- According to Spartanburg’s College and Bradley talked with students about ested in the game and the women’s Day. She admits she’ll be first in line to young people and families to be their urging parents, schools, church mem- schools were noted for outstanding sis was placed on families. The main Hub initiative, 80 percent of adults careers in the news media and invited basketball players. Her youth league sign up next year. best selves. bers and community leaders to become communication efforts, and four others attraction of this event was the ac- in the community do not have a bac- them to sit on press row during part of basketball team hadn’t won a game all “We want to find ways to reach out The sociologist Conneal West sensitive and helpful to the journey and acknowledged for having good commu- knowledging of the Stars of Tomor- calaureate degree and as a result often the game. Deja Whitmire was one of season when she sat down to watch the to local schools and get kids on a col- reminds us that in past years, young the plight of young people nication messages. row Winners. The Stars of Tomorrow live in financially unstable situations. those students. Wofford team play. lege campus, primarily our campus,” people had buffers within the commu- The conference began with a Heal- Saturday featured a Heroes Brunch: program is a children’s project that Community economic development “I’ve never been on a college cam- “I was looking for tricks so I could Mathis said. “We hope this is some- nity to ward off the meaningless exis- ing, Dialogue and Recovery Breakfast. a time for remembering the many Wesley holds each year to demonstrate also suffers. Wofford is a College Hub pus or to a game,” Whitmire said. “The help my team win,” Arellano said. “I thing that will continue to grow.” tence of alienation and separation that Educators, parents, district school of- heroes God has placed in our lives. This to children their value in worship and collaborator dedicated to improving hardest part was not being able to cheer young people face today. Today, there ficials, police and sheriff’s departments, was also a time for networking work- service in the church. (See box.) educational attainment. in the press box. I had to be profes- is a lack of support within the young court officials and others participated in ing, sharing resources within the com- The goal of the summit was to help “Anything we can do to get kids sional.” culture that helps them to see that “the discussions regarding being empowered munity, learning how to make and save restore young people to their better storm is passing over.” But through the to bring healing in the lives of young money, staying in shape, taking care selves, and the comments and evalua- Read it. summit, attendees sought to revisit and people, especially young black males. our health and building strong relation- tions suggest the summit is making a Greenville to host large-scale GBOD focus on discussions and dialogues, The next day, Wednesday, at 6:07 ships. strong impact in this effort. Conference on Ministry with Children S.C. teens sought for hunger mission events this summer GREENVILLE – Children’s ministers joined by Dr. Edward Phillips of Can- Use it. from across the denomination will dler School of Theology, South African Looking for a youth mission event this summer? waste for various marketing reasons. ing, gleaning nutritious fruits or vegetables that will gather in the Upstate this July for a author the Rev. Trevor Hudson and Harvest of Hope has mission event openings this The summer mission events provide participants be taken directly to agencies for sharing with those multi-day Conference on Ministry with North Georgia author Delia Halverson. summer for middle and high school youth groups. the opportunity to learn about hunger, and to expe- who are in need. Children. Set for July 22-26 at Bun- Innovative workshops for new and Harvest of Hope is the ecumenical study, wor- rience first-hand a common-sense solution to the The Harvest of Hope program has worked for 28 combe Street United Methodist Church seasoned children’s ministers will Connect. ship and action mission program of the Society of St. problem: gleaning. years with more than 13,500 participants. and the Hyatt Regency Greenville, the include distance and ongoing learning, Andrew, a national nonprofit hunger-relief ministry Individuals will learn that hunger is everywhere, For more information, visit www.endhunger.org/ conference is offered by the UMC’s inspirational worship, children’s min- that rescues 25-35 million pounds of fresh, nutritious, even close to home. Participants will get their hands Harvest, call 800-333-4597 or email sosahoh@end General Board of Discipleship. istry certification course, safe sanctuar- excess produce each year that would otherwise go to dirty, literally. They will be in the fields in the morn- hunger. Preachers include South Carolina’s ies training, service and mission, and own Dr. Robin Dease, Claflin Universi- weekday preschool training. Care and share: collaboration between schools and the community ty, along with Dr. Leanne Ciampa Had- A pre-conference retreat for chil- ley of First Steps Spirituality Center, dren’s ministers will be held July 22, “It takes a village to raise a child.” the school district and the churches to deavor) respectively – were determined, called and emailed parents to keep them Colorado Springs, Colo., and the Rev. and the overall event will include learn- How many times have we nodded work together to serve the members and the planning began. informed. Michael Williams of West End UMC, ing, mission and fun activities for the our heads upon hearing and repeating of the communities surrounding the At the initial planning meeting, the Currently, both sites have met their Nashville, Tenn. entire family. this African proverb? How often do church. district and the charge determined the maximum number of students, 25, and S.C. Bishop Jonathan Holston is To sign up or learn more, email we actually have an opportunity to act Their plan was to continue with needs for a successful program. The have waiting lists. Each church has a among featured leadership of the event, [email protected]. upon it? What can we do to help raise and expand on an idea that was intro- district provided computers, educa- site coordinator and an assistant site children in this constantly changing and duced several years ago. The school tional software, snacks, transportation coordinator who ensure there are vol- challenging society? district and church charge planned to to the sites from schools and furniture unteers, including themselves, in place UM families encouraged to sign up for 1. Participate in the “Five for $25 Subscrip- member to come speak at your church. At the Ridgeville Charge (Canaan implement an after-school tutoring and as needed. The church provided In- to assist with students and program tions” program. 6. Steer people to the Advocate’s website and Sand Hill United Methodist church- enrichment program for students in the ternet access, volunteers to help the logistics. 2. Participate in “Free Advocate for New (www.advocatesc.org) or to the Advocate’s es), the call was to start after-school communities surrounding the churches. students, space, books and equipment Though the programs are in their Bring-A-Kid Race Day at Darlington Members.” Facebook or Twitter page (@advocatesc) programs for students in conjunction Several church volunteers and key for free time during rotations. The infancy, students and parents have United Methodist families across drink. Signup deadline is April 10. 3. Enroll your congregation in an online or 7. Advertise a job opening, church service, with the local school district, Dorches- staff from the school district, such as focus group was students from pre-K to been grateful for this opportunity for South Carolina are being invited to The rally begins at 4 p.m., with the print “Advocate Church Plan” and receive business or event in our pages. ter School District Two. The Rev. Mack Frank Johnson, technology coordinator, eighth grade. Principals at the schools help with homework and educational participate in a discounted opportunity: race at 6:45. discounted pricing. 8. Send the Advocate your church’s news, C. McClam, pastor of Canaan and Sand formed a task force to plan and execute who served the two communities were enrichment twice a week, on Tuesdays Bring-A-Kid Race Day at Darlington To sign up, or for more information, 4. Encourage your members to buy an events or high-res photos. Deadline is the individual subscription to the Advocate. 10th of every month for the next month’s Hill, and Dr. A. Sean Alford, Assis- the programs. The names of the pro- contacted, and information was shared and Thursdays. The hope is that if the Raceway. visit www.umcsc.org and click on the 5. Invite the Advocate editor or a board edition. Email [email protected]. tant superintendent of curriculum and grams at Canaan and Sand Hill – CARE appropriately with parents. Parents program goes well, the program will be Tickets are $25 and include admis- “Bring-A-Kid Race Day” feature near instruction for Dorchester District Two (Canaan Academic Rural Endeavor) and then registered students with members extended to Monday through Thursday sion to the Bring a Kid event, set for the top of the page. Links will be avail- www.advocatesc.org | [email protected] | 888-678-6272 Schools, met and determined a way for SHARE (Sand Hill Academic Rural En- of the task force, who sent letters to, for the 2013-2014 school year. Saturday, May 11, plus a hot dog and able to the registration form. Page 22, April 2013 Education & Youth Advocate Advocate Education & Youth Page 23, April 2013 Miss SMC 2013 crowned Youth ministry at Clemson UMC: more than fun and games Freshman is member of Bethesda UMC By Ken Garfield he’ll remain there for at least three of the most intense of those intensive years after he graduates this summer, on-campus sessions happens at the Duke Spartanburg Meth- Women’s Soccer team and the SMC Editor’s note: This was first published until 2016. This is how a self-confessed Youth Academy each summer. odist College fresh- Track Team. She volunteers with sev- in Faith & Leadership, www.faithand “crazy-haired” youth pastor has come to During two weeks in June, 45 rising man Bonnie Walls eral different organizations including leadership.com. “ devote himself to Clemson UMC youth high school juniors and seniors from was crowned Miss the GAIHN (Greenville Area Interfaith The youth ministries room at Clem- It’s about giving students in grades 6-12. With his blue jeans and across the nation unite at Duke to wor- SMC 2013 at the Hospitality Network) and the Upstate son United Methodist Church in Clem- credit for being able to be sandals and a mop of curly hair, Taylor ship, pray, serve, and share meals and Miss SMC Pageant Homeless Coalition. son, S.C., still has an old sofa, the type theologians. looks the part. Conklin-Miller talked conversation. The students participate in Feb. 9. An avid runner, she also competes that teenagers typically occupy on about Taylor’s outgoing personality service projects, hear faculty speakers Walls will receive in and volunteers with road races Sunday evenings far and wide across the and how he ends his emails with “much from Duke Divinity School and meet a $1,000 scholarship around the Upstate area. faith landscape. – Jad Taylor love.” daily in small reflection groups. It is all with her title, as well Walls In addition to the top honor, Walls But that’s one of the few vestiges Clemson UMC’s director The kids at Clemson UMC clearly meant to inspire teens to take a fresh of the past in a youth ministry work- embrace him. Charles Withington, 16, look at God, the church and themselves. as the opportunity to won the Overall Evening Gown trophy. of youth ministries represent the college in the Miss S.C. Other pageant award winners were ing to educate young Christians in a mentioned the fall retreat when the The experience must be compelling, Scholarship Pageant this summer. Lindsey Hoffman, first runner up and deeper way. Believing that the role of entire youth group came together to since youth flock to the DYA, even with A member of Bethesda United overall talent trophy; Takerra Mills, the church is to mold young people into explore God’s story in some out-of-the- the 7:30 a.m. wake-up call each day. Methodist Church in Easley, Walls is second runner up; Alyssa Sherrill, Photo by Mary Abbott serious students and devoted disciples, box ways. To express the joy of Palm The MACP students also attend the the daughter of Leroy and Judy Walls community support award; and Jordan the 1,000-member congregation, located Sunday, they danced. To ponder Jesus’ youth academy, but not as “campers,” and is from Piedmont. Her platform Garner, most photogenic award. Caring for our troops a mile from Clemson University, has arrest and crucifixion, they spent time counselors or other staff. embodies the philosophy“ at the heart of is Getting Involved: Helping Those in To schedule an appearance: Youth at Lyttleton Street UMC, city, recently assembled care packages for troops shifted the focus of its work with youth. quietly in a garden. At night, they gazed “We are intentional about that,” serving our country. Here, the youth work the “assembly line.” the MACP program. The academy’s vi- Need. Walls is a member of the SMC [email protected] or 864-587-4006. Leading that effort is a Duke Divinity at the stars. Whether at a retreat or the Conklin-Miller said. “They are ‘partic- School student who is convinced that sion statement puts it this way: Sunday night gathering, or whenever ipant-observers’ and members of the his charges are capable of more than fun “Authentic Christian communities he needs someone to talk to, Charles worshipping-learning-serving commu- Kingstree United Methodists fill ‘clang buckets’ for Epworth children and games. do not isolate or ghettoize youth in a always knows where to turn. nity of DYA.” hodgepodge of lock-ins and pool par- KINGSTREE – On the first Sunday of director. buckets hoping for lots of clang – the needed. “It’s about giving students credit for “I can tell Jad anything,” he said. Last summer, Taylor and two youth ties. Instead they welcome youth into every month, Kingstree United Method- Blackwelder will have a short mes- sound made when worshipers drop in Worshipers anticipate this collection, being able to be theologians,” said Jad Another Clemson youth, 18-year-old from Clemson UMC were part of the their very center as they seek to embody ist Church children have a very special sage for them and then will hand out their coins. and many come with their loose change Taylor, Clemson UMC’s director of Hunter Smith, offered similar praise. youth academy. Raven Howard, 18, a faithful life and worship before God. children’s sermon. They know that the the “clang buckets,” large, decorated, As the pastor says, “We want your already collected in a Ziploc plastic bag youth ministries. “It’s helping students “Jad is really accepting of any person senior at Daniel High School in Central, “The same graceful means that have Rev. Joe Blackwelder will be speaking empty gallon paint buckets. The chil- coins – ones, fives, tens, hundreds or to dump into the buckets and make a understand their part in this wonderful he comes into contact with,” he said. S.C., remembers focusing on the story sustained God’s people historically – with them instead of their usual leader, dren scurry around the congregation checks,” all of which will be sent to loud clang. Over time, it comes to a siz- story.” “To me, his faith is overwhelming.” of God as seen through the five C’s – worship, sacrament, serious study of Josette Jarrett, the children and youth and through the choir loft to pass the Epworth Children’s Home to be used as able sum, totaling $2,567 for 2012. Taylor, 26, is part of the first class in His ever-present smile notwithstand- Creation, Covenant, Christ, Church and the Master of Arts in Christian Practice Scripture and theology, prayer, service ing, youth ministry is serious business Coming Reign. program, a two-year degree track at with the poor, hospitality, self-denial, for Taylor. On a rainy evening, the final “You learn a lot about how the story Did you know that you Duke Divinity School with an emphasis spiritual direction and accountability – Sunday before Lent, his upbeat pur- of God relates to our story,” he said. “I Foundations in Youth Ministry can make a gift and on educating youth pastors and other are what youth hunger for today.” posefulness came across in a gathering think it is our story.” In this spirit, Conklin-Miller said, the receive guaranteed in- lay professional ministers serving local devoted to Jesus’ 40 days in the desert Howard loved how they were encour- congregations. youth of the church belong in the sanctu- and what that means to teens navigating aged to view the youth academy’s daily come for life? ary pews on Sunday mornings, and not by the Rev. Daniel Griswold Jeff Conklin-Miller, assistant profes- life in the complicated 21st century. communion as a thanksgiving dinner sor of the practice of Christian formation on those old sofas in the youth room. Following a dinner of red beans and filled with conversation and laughter. That’s exactly what dozens and director of the MACP program, said At Clemson UMC, the young people rice, church member and New Orleans Less laugh-producing was the worship of people have done since 1982 the idea is to share this model of pas- in the youth ministry sit up front in the native Jill Evans talked about Mardi service his group was asked to plan. Loving the politics of YM through Charitable Gift An- toring with youth ministers who aren’t sanctuary on Sunday mornings, just be- Gras traditions as the youth devoured “It was interesting but kind of stress- nuities with the South Carolina theologically trained so that they, in turn, low the pulpit, said the Rev. Keith Ray, a king cake, the colorful pastry identi- ful,” he said. olitics (from Greek: politikos) ministry was heading. I’ve heard of youth are essential to our growth as United Methodist Foundation. can help youth understand their role in the church’s senior pastor. fied with pre-Lenten revelry. Several Through it all, Howard said, Taylor by definition is the art of influ- skate park ministries closed down by leaders. Make time regularly to listen the broader Christian story. “It means they are integrated into the teenagers then read aloud the story from was there, just as he is each Sunday encing people when there are trustees, and youth disenfranchised and to how to be better. Not all criticism Current One-Life Rates The old youth ministry model? Order whole of the congregation,” he said. “It’s Matthew 4:1-11, how Jesus rejected the evening, stirring conversation, listening two or more of us interacting hurting in all the after-burn. is constructive, so make sure you take For Selected Ages* pepperoni pizzas, update the kids on the one of the things we value at Clemson. temptations of the devil and fasted for and, most of all, accepting. Pwith each other. When I say the words “church poli- to heart only that which is meant for We feel the youth learn a lot by being ski trip, bring up a sensitive topic like 40 days and 40 nights. “Jad doesn’t force what he thinks on In the field of youth ministry, there tics” many people cringe, and I don’t your betterment. Try not to lose sleep Age 60 4.4% dating, toss out a few applicable Bible with the older folks, and the older folks Jesus’ wilderness experience, Taylor people,” Howard said. are a lot of politics in the good sense. believe this has to be so. When the over things meant to break you down, Age 65 4.7% verses, then repeat, with a different learn a lot from them.” told the youth as they fiddled with their When making the goal to “make life- leaders of a ministry embrace the love and hold the encouragements close Age 70 5.1% topic, the following Sunday evening. Taylor, a native of Columbia, gradu- Mardi Gras beads, reminds us that we ‘What ministry will it be?’ long disciples of Christ,” you start to of the art of politics (which is really for those times when you’re unsure of Age 75 5.8% The new (actually, quite ancient) ated from Clemson in 2008 with a Bach- are not alone, no matter the temptations What’s next? Taylor is committed to think through a plan including teaching just the love of the people) and also yourself. Do not let pride sneak in and Age 80 6.8% model that MACP is teaching Taylor and elor of Science degree in biosystems en- and pitfalls we face. He shared what he Clemson UMC through 2016. Knowing series, worship, gathering times/places, embrace a plan to lead, this endeavor destroy your heart for others. “Pride Age 85 7.8% the 25 other students in the program? gineering. The son of an optometrist and called his own desert experience, the that part of his vocation is working with events and, of course, lots of fun stuff. becomes life-giving and community- first, then the crash, but humility is pre- “What is the Christian church about?” a nurse, he was planning on becoming death of his grandmother and having to teenagers, he’s thinking through whether The politics start when the plan needs growing. How can this be? cursor to honor” (Proverbs 18:12). Two-Life Rates Available Conklin-Miller said. “What is dis- an eye doctor like his father – until the see his mother suffer. or not to seek ordination. The MACP implementation, and the messiness The first step is to loving politics is One last piece of advice: Always Upon Request cipleship? What is baptism? This is an first summer he spent as a counselor at a “The deserts we’re going through, would qualify him to seek ordination comes when answering the “people” to be confident. Not confident in one’s keep the head pastor in the informa- * Rates are subject to change. invitation for youth to see themselves as Christian camp in Colorado changed ev- Jesus has been there,” he said. “It’s OK as a deacon in the UMC, but he would questions: self, but confident in the vision of a tion loop. Good or bad, celebrate part of the narrative of God’s redemptive erything. There in the Rocky Mountains, for us to enter into deserts together.” have to go back to school and get an Who will do what? Why? Who will thriving youth ministry and on God’s and problem-solve together. Wisdom Gift Annuities with the Founda- work in creation. he fell in love with the idea of shaping Later, in small groups, the high M.Div. to pursue ordination as an elder. go? What audiences are we reaching? purpose for each young person in your comes from years of leadership, and tion provide guaranteed lifetime “Suddenly, they have a different way youth and being shaped by youth. school boys talked about what they “The entire question of ordination is How will they react to the message? church. By sketching out a thoughtful it is most likely that no one knows the income at an attractive rate, of thinking about what it means to be “I felt like my gifts and talents and could give up for Lent. Some suggested new and still unfolding for me,” he said. What powers need to know what we plan for discipleship and giving a deep congregation like the head shepherd. immediate tax benefits for your youth in the church. What’s most im- passions were all being used,” he said. video games and speeding. “Five years ago, I did not suspect that are doing? What communications need and passionate telling of the possible Build a relationship of trust and move charitable contribution, and a portant in youth ministry isn’t someone “That’s a hard feeling to shake.” Taylor again gently turned the con- I would be working in a local church, to be written and published? Will we be future, others will be able to hear you forward together. Tension at this level way to leave a legacy for the who’s, quote unquote, good with kids The spring of his senior year, a few versation inward. Our earthly pursuits, much less considering a call to lifelong, on the Internet? Who will relate to the out. Don’t be upset when others give will ultimately destroy any hopes of a future. but someone who is deeply committed weeks before graduation, the Rev. Lane he suggested aloud, turn us into some- full-time parish ministry.” kids? What does the pastor(s) need to other routes. Consider the possibili- long-term ministry that will impact and ------to the church’s ministry of formation.” Glaze, director of the Clemson Wesley thing we’re not. They hide what’s really For now, Taylor is content to walk know? How are parents brought in? ties, integrate suggestions when you persevere for the discipleship of your The South Carolina Foundation and campus minister for in our souls. By giving up something, beside youth as he works toward his The easiest way to get burned and learn something and be willing to be a church’s youth. United Methodist Foundation, Insights from the Youth Academy Clemson UMC, told him that the church during Lent and beyond, perhaps we MACP degree online and on campus. watch the youth ministry go down in decision-maker. A conversation with Politics can be incredibly rewarding. Inc. The MACP program and the vision was looking for a youth pastor. reveal our vulnerabilities in a way that He frames his future around a question royal flames is to ignore the art of lov- different viewpoints is healthy when Every church has a particular style, and P. O. Box 5087 of youth ministry that it seeks to foster strengthens us. “Weakness is not un- that Fred Edie, the youth academy’s ing and working with the people. This people are listened to. The admonition when navigated properly, the people Columbia, SC 29250-5087 draws heavily on insights gleaned by the ‘Where I need to be’ cool,” he told the boys before the group founding director and now an associate is probably the biggest complaint I hear to Joshua always encourages me, “Be grow closer in mutual care. Strive and Divinity School over 12 years of operat- That very moment Taylor told him- of 35 came back together to sing a final professor of the practice of Christian in youth work. I’ve heard about civil bold and courageous for the Lord your work hard to make this a priority, and Send me information about a ing the Duke Youth Academy. There, self, “That’s where I need to be.” song. “Being vulnerable is good.” education, likes to share at the academy, wars fuming and smoldering among God is with you wherever you go” you will find great rewards each day. Charitable Gift Annuity with each summer, high school students and After another summer at the camp in where he still serves as a faculty adviser. groups, and their politik is poisonous. (Joshua 1:9). the Foundation. counselors gather on the Duke cam- Colorado, he went to work at the church, Intense at the DYA “The question is not, ‘Will it be min- Many youth ministers have left min- The second step is to be humble in Griswold is youth director at St. Name ______pus for two weeks of worship, classes in August 2008, and started in the The MACP program combines istry?’” says Edie, “but, ‘What ministry istry altogether because congregations all you do and communicate. None of Andrew By-The-Sea UMC, Hilton Head Address ______and dialogue aimed at helping youth MACP program three years later, intent intensive, on-campus seminars and will it be?’” didn’t understand the philosophy of us are ever above reproach. Account- Island. Follow him on Twitter City ______appreciate their role in the Christian on infusing his passion with scholar- Web-based distance learning that allows “His words stay at the front of my ministry, or because a pastor wasn’t ability from leadership in the church, @Dannonhill or check out his blog, State ______Zip ______story. Launched with a grant from Lilly ship. Clemson UMC is paying his way the students to remain in full-time youth heart, mind and soul each and every on board with a direction the youth the parents of our families or even our DanielGriswold.Wordpress.com. Endowment Inc., the youth academy in return for Taylor’s commitment that ministry in their home churches. One day,” Taylor said. Page 24, April 2013 History Advocate Advocate Page 25, April 2013 From the Archives Methodism Revisited Marrow Christianity

by Dr. Phillip Stone, conference archivist by the Rev. Bob Huggins by the Rev. Chris Barrett Bishop William Wallace Duncan John King: ‘screamer’ for Methodism UM pastor details battle with lymphoma ne of South ences across the South as nother interesting character evangelists. A church was built in 1773 Editor’s note: Barrett, pastor of St. irritating phenomenon of a permanently praying, promising on my behalf. After look like trees, walking.” Then Jesus Carolina’s con- bishop, and even had to in early Middle-America on his estate, the third Methodist cha- James United Methodist Church in runny nose...It’s no fun to appreciate the nurse came to draw my blood at laid his hands on his eyes again; and tributions to the travel to the far west as he Methodism was a humble pel in Maryland. His descendants have Spartanburg, has recently been diag- to the full of the truth of the materialist 3:30 this morning, it broke me from he looked intently and his sight was Methodist epis- presided over the Oregon English Methodist named ever since been among the representa- nosed with lymphoma. In this serial proposition that I don’t have a body, I the spell of the Ativan and I lay awake restored, and he saw everything clearly Ocopacy, William Wallace Annual Conference six AJohn King. tive Methodists of the Middle States. column, pulled directly from his blog, am a body. in the darkness, suddenly wide awake (Mark 8:22-26). The past few weeks Duncan, spent much of his times. When opening King, who arrived a few months One of his sons, James Baker, Barrett details his health journey. Read And while it would make Hitch- and aware of the day’s significance. I’ve felt like the blind man after Jesus’ life serving the Methodist one annual conference, after Williams, came from London to deputy surveyor of Baltimore, was the more: marrowchristianity.blogspot.com. ens roll in his grave to hear it used to To keep from chasing my imagination first laying-on-of-hands. I’ve seen what Church. Duncan reportedly said, “I America in the latter part of 1769. His first-fruit of King’s ministry in that make a theological point, what this down too many rabbit trails, I picked up the blind man saw: a blurry, confusing, When his father, David am glad to meet and greet enthusiastic sympathy with the pioneer city, for “it was the indomitable and Jan. 24 to-the-core atheist claims for his own my smart phone and was immediately facsimile of life. For the blind man, that I am now settled into my hospital experience is what Christians claim for overwhelmed. There, in the most mun- meant seeing people who, in his words Duncan, joined the original Duncan you. I expect to be glad all Methodists led him to throw himself enterprising King who first threw the Wofford College faculty in the time I am with you, and immediately into their ranks, persisting banners of Methodism to the people of room in the Ashley River Tower of the our Savior: Jesus did not have a body, dane instrument of my life, used to text “looked like trees.” 1854, the 15-year-old future possibly I may be glad when even against severe discouragements. Baltimore.” Medical University of South Carolina. he was a body. He experienced in and and call and occasionally catch up on For me, the first stage of holy healing bishop transferred from Randolph-Ma- I leave you.” As Abel Stevens writes in “The His- King’s first pulpit in Baltimore was This morning I had what’s called a through the core of his entire self the Bible or newspaper reading, I was sud- has been equally blurry. In the nearly con College. Graduating from Wofford Conferences did not provide epis- tory of the Methodist Episcopal Church a blacksmith’s block at the intersection central line placed into my jugular vein. joys and agonies of life. And because denly staring at a cloud of witnesses not three weeks since my bone marrow in 1858, Duncan returned to Virginia copal residences for the bishops, and in the United States of America,” King of Front and French streets. His next Tomorrow begins the five-day chemo- he did, the wide-ranging experiences named in Hebrews. These witnesses run transplant, I, like the blind man be- and entered the Methodist ministry. so Bishop Duncan made his office first appears in Philadelphia, inspired sermon was from a table at the junction therapy regimen that will prepare me to of our embodied existence are wrapped their races in settings from corporate fore me, have been led away from the He served churches in Virginia for and residence in Spartanburg. Around with what he deemed an inward call to of Baltimore and Calvert streets. His receive my bone marrow transplant. up into his saving acts. From basking in consulting to church leadership, from crowds, including the friends and fam- 16 years, and was also a Confederate 1885, he started building a large home preach the Gospel, and burdened with courage was tested on this occasion, I have been thinking the last few the sun’s welcome warmth to enduring stay-at-home-parenting to sustainable ily who have hoped most fervently for chaplain. Duncan returned to Wofford midway between the Wofford campus the apostolic sense of the “woe” that for it was the militia’s training-day, days about the odd combination of the bleakest, bitterest cold of winter, the farming. And here, through the seldom- my healing. Like the blind man, I have in January 1876 as professor of mental and downtown Spartanburg. When he would be to him if he did not preach and the drunken crowd charged upon feelings I’m experiencing as day zero experiences we have as body-beings are used Facebook app on my phone, their strained and squinted and stared, try- and moral philosophy, and he took on became a bishop, he altered some of it. He offered himself to the church for him so effectually as to upset the table (the day of my bone marrow transplant) known to God. smiling faces and words of encourage- ing to see the world as the Son of God the additional duty of being the col- the plans to accommodate many of the license, but it hesitated. and lay him prostrate on the earth. He approaches. On the one hand, over three The way Gregory of Nazaianzus ment, their moving prayers and even intends for me to see it. lege’s financial agent, or chief fund- large meetings he might expect to host. “However,” says the historian, “this knew, however, that the noblest preach- months after my cancer relapsed, I am put it: “that which is not assumed is their sacred songs – all of these crashed In this blurry time, I’ve blinked raiser. The house was the first in the city to young man determined to preach,” and ers of Methodism had suffered like eager to get this show on the road. On not healed.” In other words, unless and crescendoed into my darkened hos- through tears to see masked people Over the next 10 years, Duncan have inside bathrooms with running made an appointment “in the Potter’s trials in England, and he maintained his the other hand, I am filled with unmiti- Jesus has known the privations and pital room, and I knew without a doubt wearing plastic blue aprons, taking traveled throughout South Carolina water. Field.” ground courageously. gated dread as I prepare to face a proce- temptations of the flesh, he hasn”t truly that the Cloud of Witnesses described in their turns at helping me along the hard speaking to Methodist churches in an Wofford’s literary magazine reported King accordingly proclaimed hum- The commander of the troops, an dure that has a 1 in 5 chance of killing redeemed human beings in our full and Hebrews is still alive and present and as road of healing. I have fuzzy memo- attempt to raise the college’s endow- in February 1889 that “Bishop Dun- bly but courageously his first message Englishman, recognized him as a fel- me. It’s kind of like what I imagine Evel complicated (and bodily) existence. eager as ever to help us run this leg of ries of doctors prodding my chest and ment. Duncan was active in Methodist can’s handsome residence on North in that humblest of sanctuaries, over low countryman, and defending him, Knievel must have felt as he hit the And so as I deal with my own our race. belly, listening to my lungs and my circles, representing South Carolina in Church Street, second lot from the the graves of the poor, and thus began a restored order, and allowed him to throttle to approach a ramp that would “dreadiness” at facing the ordeal before And so, miraculously, mysteriously, bowel sounds, flooding me with ques- three successive General Conferences. [Central] Methodist Church, is com- career of eminent usefulness. Some of proceed. Victorious over the mob, he (hopefully) launch him over a yawning me, I take solace from knowing that my humble hospital room took on the tions about how I’m feeling and what In 1881, he represented the Methodist pleted. It is of English architecture with his Methodist brethren heard him, and made such a favorable impression that ravine. there is One who has faced the dark- grand dimensions of Duke Chapel, my bowel movements are like and Episcopal Church, South, at the first coat of arms on front. The Bishop has urged his authorization by the Society he was invited to preach in the English In my conversations with friends and ness without blinking, who has met where this passage had originally taken what number (1-10) I would assign to Methodist Ecumenical Conference been spending some time at home.” as a preacher. He was permitted to Church of St. Paul’s, but his mighty loved ones, I’ve begun describing these every growling menace with conquering on deeper meaning in my life. This the pain. I have foggy recollections of in London. His work on Wofford’s At one point, North Church Street in deliver a “trial sermon” before them, voice and vigorous action “made the dueling impulses as “dreadiness.” I am love, who has borne in his own scars time, however, the cloud of witnesses nurses giving way to new nurses, shift behalf brought him increased attention Spartanburg must have been one of the was licensed and next appears in Wilm- dust fly from the old velvet cushion,” both ready for the ordeal, and dreading the wounds of an entire universe. Set became visible and audible in the least after shift, hooking up more IV bags throughout the region, and as a result, most Methodist areas in the country, for ington, Del., “among a few people who and he was not asked a second time. its jagged edges. beside his Garden agony, my pain may likely medium – the icons and comment than I can count. the 1886 General Conference elected Central Methodist Church, the Central were there earnestly seeking the Lord.” A.B. Hyde states in his book, “The Dreadiness acknowledges that an be puny, but it is Jesus” acceptance of boxes of Facebook. And I was suddenly I remember with blessed indistinct- him a bishop. parsonage, the Spartanburg District Later the same year, he arrived in Story of Methodism,” Wesley had event that could bring new life takes suffering’s cup in that forsaken place reminded that the Savior who became ness the moments the pneumonia had Though his elevation to the epis- parsonage, the bishop’s residence and Baltimore County, being greeted by tried in vain to mend King’s elocution: place in the shadows of untimely death. that steels my soul to bear the pain of the pioneer and perfecter of our faith me groaning and writhing in the bed, copacy meant he had to resign from Wofford sat all in a row. You have to Robert Strawbridge and with Robert “Scream no more at the peril of your If dreadiness is an apt description for these days not with my own courage, is the same one who first showed up in begging for someone to take away the the Wofford faculty, it did not end his feel a little sorry for Central’s ministers Williams. They zealously worked soul. I often speak loud but I do not my feelings with my own life on the grace and love, but with his. Dready or a lowly grotto, surrounded by the first pain. The pain was a 9+ for a few hours, relationship with the college. He be- of the day, with their bishop and presid- together, sharing their toils and suf- scream.” But he says, “You are stub- line, I have wondered in the last few not, here comes God – to me, to you, to witnesses that ranged from cattle to finally giving way to the pain meds that came a member of the Wofford board of ing elder both living on the same block. fering. King was a man of invincible born and headstrong. You surely might days what degree of dreadiness Jesus any in this world who inhabit darkness sheep-herders. the doctors kept having to bump up. In trustees, and for the last 19 years of his From his home, Bishop Duncan could zeal, with his manners imbued with his take advice from your affectionate must have felt in the Garden with the and yearn for undying Light. And so it should not surprise me fact, just this morning our wonderful life, the bishop was the chairman of the keep an eye on events at Wofford while piety, and preached it. brother.” King went on “screaming.” life of the entire world on the line. in the least that my phone is now a nurse practitioner laughingly recalled board. When he and his fellow trustees he handled his responsibilities to the Stevens goes on to write that, when King died in Raleigh, N.C., very For centuries theologians have staked Jan. 30 brimming repository of witnesses that me praying a prayer of thanksgiving for elected Henry Nelson Snyder to be far-flung conferences he was serving. in 1770 King preached at the Forks old, as he was the last of the ante- the Gospel’s truth on the conviction that I have always considered Hebrews inspire me to lay aside every weight and narcotics! (A prayer, incidentally, I have the college’s fourth president, Duncan The home remained in the bishop’s of Gunpowder in Baltimore County, Revolutionary preachers, apparently Jesus was fully human. That is, Jesus 12:1-2 to be comforting – the assurance the sin that clings so closely and to run only the vaguest memory of praying!) presented Snyder as president of “our” family after his death in 1908 and James J. Baker, a historic name in the not having “shortened his own life” by fully entered into the weakness, contin- of heavenly company during our earthly with perseverance the race that is set When there hasn’t been high drama, college – with emphasis, Snyder later remained on the same site until 1999, church of that region, was “awakened his screaming, as Wesley had feared. gency and disorder of life as a fleshly trials, the promise that faithful people before me. there has been an incessant sameness remembered, on the word “our.” Snyder when it was moved to make way for under his powerful word,” and three As Stevens goes on to write, such were being. Hangnails and cowlicks, charlie who have run their races and now rest Even as I am finishing the last lines to the days. Vitals, rounds, blood tests, later wrote of Duncan, “He looked more Spartanburg’s downtown Marriott. The days afterward was converted. He the first lay evangelists, the founders horses and sinus infections, birthmarks from their labors are presently being at- of this entry, a decisive leg of this race reruns on TV. All of the routine has only like a bishop than any other man I have house now sits on a site between the immediately became a Methodist, and of Methodism in America: Embury, and baby’s burps – Jesus saw and knew tentive and sympathetic to us as we run has begun, with the first of 612 cc’s of increased the blur factor. But all the ever known.” city’s Magnolia Cemetery and the Caro- his influence soon led to the organiza- Webb, Strawbridge, Owen, Williams the everyday realities of living as bodily ours. I have thought there was no better marrow cells beginning their journey while, I am convinced that like the blind In those days, the denomination had linas campus of the Edward Via Col- tion of a class in his own dwelling, of and King. beings. I was recently reading Chris- place to read this passage than a place into the darkened places of my body. man before me, a faithful Companion more annual conferences than bishops, lege of Osteopathic Medicine, which is which he was leader. His house became Huggins pastors St. John UMC, topher Hitchens” wickedly funny and like Duke Chapel, where the images of My prayer-enlivened imagination now has not only waited with me for clarity and the bishops presided over multiple restoring the house. a home and preaching place for the Sumter. poignant book “Mortality,” and I was many of the witnesses are visible – in considers these millions of cells to be to come, but worked actively to help annual conferences each year. They did Stone is the archivist for the S.C. struck by his profound recognition of stone carvings, in colored glass, in rich part of my internal cloud of witnesses, bring it about. not necessarily preside over the same Conference of The United Methodist what it means to live in the flesh, par- tapestries. The silent witnesses stared testifying to the extra-mile generosity of And like the blind man before me, annual conference in consecutive years, Church, as well as the archivist for Wof- ticularly with cancer: down at me and my open Bible, the an unknown donor, the miraculous ca- I feel the hands of a Healer, hands either. As such, Bishop Duncan served ford College. Read his blog at http:// LIKE US. Nobody wants to be told about the Scripture writer asking me to believe pabilities of medical science and a grace which have refused to release me in the a number of different annual confer- blogs.wofford.edu/from_the_ archives/ countless minor horrors and humilia- that we undergo no trial alone. that asks for nothing but the balance of semi-darkness of confusion. Instead, tions that become facts of “life” when The moments of deep contemplation my life in return. the Healer has held me until clarity has FOLLOW US. your body turns from being a friend in a space as holy and grand as Duke come. And as I depart this place, like 17th Annual Blessing of the Inlet to being a foe: the boring switch from Chapel have been for me a touchstone Feb. 18 the blind man before me, I know that chronic constipation to its sudden dra- in my later ministry. I’ve always as- They came to Bethsaida. Some the healing I have received may only be May 4, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. VISIT US. matic opposite; the equally nasty double sumed I’d never experience anything people brought a blind man to Jesus for a time – but what a glorious time! The “Blessing” ceremony is at 11:30 a.m. cross of feeling acute hunger while fear- remotely comparable to those sublime and begged him to touch him. He took I now see the road before me as I’ve • Over 75 art and craft vendors • A full day of outstanding entertainment will fill the Connect with the Advocate and Conference online. ing even the scent of food; the absolute moments in the magnificent Gothic sur- the blind man by the hand and led him never seen it, as a place where even • Local restaurants include Drunken Jacks, Lee’s steps of the church. misery of gut-wringing nausea on an roundings of that place of worship. out of the village; and when he had put deeply needy bodies and souls like mine Inlet Kitchen and many more • There is NO admission fee; will be held rain or Facebook.com/advocatesc | Facebook.com/SCUMC utterly empty stomach; or the pathetic Until now. As I’ve enjoyed a deep saliva on his eyes and laid his hands receive another ways to walk, and the • The Belin Creative Learning Center will be hosting shine discovery that hair loss extends to the Ativan-induced slumber on the eve of on him, he asked him, “Can you see light necessary to walk it. children fun and games galore Twitter @advocatesc | @UMCSC AdvocateSC.org | UMCSC.org disappearance of the follicles in your my bone marrow transplant, a vibrant anything?” And the man looked up Check the May Advocate for the next See You Saturday! | www.BlessingoftheInlet.com nostrils, and thus to the childish and cloud of witnesses has been pleading, and said, “I can see people, but they installments in Barrett’s blog. Page 26, April 2013 Viewpoints Advocate Advocate Global News Page 27, April 2013 Guest Commentary Becoming More Vile From the United Methodist News Service: United Methodists welcome new pope ROME – United Methodists offered prayers and warm wishes to Pope Francis I, by Margret VanOrden Maloney by the Rev. Jonathan Tompkins the first pope from the Americas, who now will set the tone for ecumenical rela- tions between the Roman Catholic Church and other Christian traditions. A mystical moment A ‘Vile’ Easter Editor’s Note: “Becoming More Damion Suomi & the Minor Prophets— End to exclusion of women in combat welcomed or more than 150 years the unteered to play the organ, and as she Vile” showcases God’s truth in the a cry for peace, following the One who NASHVILLE, Tenn. – United Methodist chaplains and other denominational tiny church had served the walked toward the instrument near the world-at large. “carried no sword when they nailed you leaders welcomed news that the U.S. military is ending its policy of officially small community not only for conclusion of the service, she opened ou can’t have a “Vile Lent” to the board,” rife with Biblical imagery excluding women from combat. Combat is already a reality for women, said Sunday services, but for wed- her hymnal and announced, “We will playlist without following and commands: “Love your God with Chaplain Maj. Terri L. Jones, a United Methodist pastor who has been in the Fdings, funerals, baptisms and memorial sing ‘Let The Lower Lights Be Burn- up with a “Vile Easter” one. your heart, love your neighbor as your military for 15 years in the Army Reserve. services, as well as the annual Christ- ing,’ page 125.” Christ is risen, He is risen own, and the rest is just a guess good as mas pageant presented by the school- At that precise moment the worship- Yindeed! Rock on! mine.” Study: Common themes in church vitality and change children. It hosted travelogues, con- ers heard a slight sound at the church’s “Roll Away Your Stone” by Mum- “Ain’t No Grave” by Johnny Cash: NASHVILLE, Tenn. – A new study about how a group of United Methodist con- certs, Audubon lectures and provided a door. Someone was entering. One by ford & Sons: Start your Easter sunrise Sung in failing voice and released post- gregations successfully dealt with change says three key elements were almost quiet place for private meditation. one, everyone turned to look. It was service with some rollicking freak-folk humously, it’s hard a find a more mean- always present: a pastor not afraid to lead, laity who would partner as a team with I have attended many of the above Charlotte. Hushed gasps filled the goodness from our favorite mates across ingful witness to resurrection: “There the pastor and a God-led purpose or vision. Clergy and laity in leadership posi- and have come to accept the fact that sanctuary. She had quietly returned the pond: “Roll away your stone and ain’t no grave can hold my body down.” tions at 158 congregations, representing almost all of the denomination’s U.S. the church easily adapts itself to a home the previous day, and although I’ll roll away mine; together we can see (For an alternate, Hip-Hop take on it, try conferences, were interviewed for the Toward Vitality Research Project. variety of events. A cross here or a she was late to the service, she was what we will find.” Playdough’s “Cash Rules Everything.”) microphone there, a Christmas tree or there. “Death in His Grave” by John Mark “We Are Alive” by Bruce Spring- United Methodist Men give nearly $180,000 to fight hunger McMillan: John Mark is technically a steen: A tribute to people slain in acts a collection of large Easter baskets, a Silence filled the room. The minister NASHVILLE, Tenn. – In 2012, United Methodist Men gave $179,800 to Meals “Christian singer,” but his symbolically of violent injustice, beginning with the violin propped against a chair or a map slowly walked away from the organ for Millions, a program of the Society of St. Andrew to feed the hungry. Wade poetic lyrics and lack of inhibition in “cross up yonder on Calvary Hill,” but of some far off place tells all who enter and met her at the head of the aisle. Mays, national director of Meals for Millions, honored Indiana Annual Con- getting to the nitty gritty of life put him ending with the resurrection refrain, what to expect. No surprises. “Would you like to play our closing ference United Methodist Men for giving the highest amount of money to the more in the “vile” category: “On Friday “We are alive, and though our bodies I say “no surprises,” although a hymn?” she asked in a soft voice with society in 2012. faithful dog entered one Sunday during a gentle smile on her face. a thief, on Sunday a King. Laid down lie alone here in the dark, our souls and the service looking for his master. An A slight nod was Charlotte’s only in grief, but awoke with keys of Hell spirits rise to carry the fire and light the inebriated worshiper once thought it response, but she walked slowly for- on that day, the first born of the slain. spark.” United Methodist Insurance elects new president Nashville, Tenn. – The United Methodist Insurance Company board of direc- necessary to shout “Amen” at the end ward and took her place on the organ The Man Jesus Christ laid death in his “Dance in the Graveyards” by Delta tors elected Charles D. Hamilton as president of the organization. Hamilton will of each of the minister’s sentences. stool. For a moment I, and I am sure grave.” Rae: A song of resurrection hope, not assume his position immediately. United Methodist Insurance Company is a cap- And often a small child will call out others, wondered if she would be able “Until the End of the World” by U2: only for the ones we have lost to death, tive insurance company wholly owned by the General Council on Finance and the answer to the pastor’s rhetorical to play. But within a few seconds her Someone told me recently this song is but for us to become fully alive: “When Administration, the denomination’s finance agency. question. fingers touched the old, ivory keys, and sung from Judas’ perspective after the I die, I don’t want to rest in peace, I I went expecting the traditional form her clear voice led us in singing our Resurrection; if so, a fascinating take on want to dance in joy, I want to dance in of worship, but what happened will hallmark hymn. grace and forgiveness: “Waves of regret, the graveyards. And while I’m alive, I Pennsylvania bishops urge Medicaid expansion remain forever in my mind – a mysti- Can awed silence share space with waves of joy, I reached out for the One don’t want to be alone, mourning the HARRISBURG, Pa. – Pennsylvania’s three United Methodist bishops on March cal moment. joyous singing? I am here to tell you it I tried to destroy. You, you said you’d ones who came before, I want to dance 11 urged Gov. Tom Corbett and members of the state legislature to say yes to Because of its location on the can. wait ‘til the end of the world.” with them some more, let’s dance in the expanding Medicaid service to vulnerable individuals and families under the Atlantic shore, the hymn “Let The Charlotte had returned to the church “Mary” by Patty Griffin: A pathos- graveyards.” federal government’s new health-care law. The bishops – Thomas Bickerton of Lower Lights Be Burning” had become at the precise minute that the much- soaked song from the Mother of God’s “Beautiful Dawn” by The Wailin’ the Western Pennsylvania Conference, Peggy Johnson of the Eastern Pennsylva- symbolic, and whenever this song was loved hymn was announced. No perspective: “Jesus said, ‘Mother I Jennys: A plea for God’s Easter King- nia Conference and Jeremiah Park of the Susquehanna Conference – met with the announced, enthusiasm filled the sanc- rendition of that song has ever been couldn’t stay another day longer.’ He dom to come: “Take me to the breaking governor and legislators. tuary. No Alma Mater chorus could sung with deeper sentiment than it was flies right by and leaves a kiss upon her of a beautiful dawn, take me to the place surpass the intensity that arose when that morning. Tears dripped from our face. While the angels are singing his where we come from, take me to the Methodists join interfaith service following vandalism the organist played the introduction. eyes, smiles were sent from friend to praises in a blaze of glory, Mary stays end so I can see the start, there’s only JACKSON, Tenn. – Jackson area United Methodists turned out in support of a The hymn became the people and the friend, voices quivered and the sanctu- behind and starts cleaning up the place.” one way to mend a broken heart.” community interfaith service at Congregation B’nai Israel, on Feb. 9. The service people became the hymn. ary wrapped itself around all who were “Let Me See Your Hands” by Josh “Afterlife” by Switchfoot: The resur- occurred in reaction to vandalism of religious and sacred objects belonging to As integral a part of the church- gathered. White: If “doubting” Thomas fronted a rection life doesn’t have to begin when Margolin Hebrew Academy while students from the Memphis school were stay- goer’s persona that this hymn had It was a “mystical moment.” band of disciples who rocked the Upper we die: “And I wonder why would I ing at a hotel in Jackson. Lane Gardner Camp of the Memphis Annual Confer- become, it was equaled by the presence For a few precious minutes, all Room with mean dueling banjos, har- wait ‘til I die to come alive? I’m ready ence shares the story. of the long-time organist, Charlotte. was well with the world. It was a time monica and kick-drum: “Jesus, let me now, I’m not waiting for the afterlife.” Her confident singing led the congre- that is etched in my mind. Charlotte, see your hands. I want to see the holes Tompkins is pastor of First UMC, where you felt your Father’s plans.” Myrtle Beach. Check out his new blog Religion and race agency works on new ministry model gation, and she was as much a part of a loved member of the community, BALTIMORE – The board of the United Methodist Commission on Religion and “The Lion, the Ram & the Fish” by at http://becomingmorevile.wordpress. the service as was the sermon. had recovered enough to return to the Race gathered to lead the agency in carrying out a new ministry model for the She had recently been hospitalized church just as the cherished hymn was next four years. The ministry model, officially adopted by the board last fall, en- with a brain injury sustained in an ac- about to be sung. compasses three strategic areas of focus: vital congregations, institutional equity cident, and it was not expected that she There had been no human choreog- and intercultural competency. could return to her home in the fore- rapher for this scene. seeable future. Sadness for her and a Such are the things upon which I sense of loss for the congregation was base my faith. Reconciling Ministries Network hires executive director felt by all, and they had come to accept CHICAGO – Reconciling Ministries Network, an unofficial United Methodist that the hymns would be sung without Maloney is a member of Bluffton caucus that advocates for greater inclusion of gay, lesbian, bisexual and trans- benefit of accompaniment. UMC, Bluffton, though she spends her gender individuals, has named its new executive director. Matt Berryman, a However, this particular morning summers on a tiny island in Maine, former United Methodist clergyperson, has served as the pastor of congregations there was a guest minister who vol- which is the subject of this column. in the Jacksonville, Fla., area and the United Kingdom. He also has led numer- ous groups through training seminars and workshops for The United Methodist Church and United Methodist-related institutions. He starts his new role April 2. Snickers and smiles Caucus joins Prop. 8 action at U.S. Supreme Court St. Paul UMC, Saluda, WASHINGTON –The Methodist Federation for Social Action, an unofficial cau- hosted the Greenwood Dis- cus of The United Methodist Church, has joined in friends-of-the-court actions trict Clergy Meeting Feb 21. involving California’s Proposition 8 ban on gay marriages and the U.S. Defense The Rev. Judy Hames gave of Marriage Act cases. The U.S. Supreme Court will hear the cases March 26 and a devotion titled “What are 27. The caucus said in a news release that while The United Methodist Church the Snickers in your Life?” does not support same-sex ceremonies, Social Principles of the denomination District Superintendent the “see a clear issue of simple justice in protecting … rightful claims … that involve Rev. James Friday served … equal protection under the law.” The U.S. Justice Department has urged the Communion. Here, both pause for a smile. Supreme Court to strike down the California ban on same-sex marriages and has stopped defending the 1996 law that bans the federal government from defending Photo from Ann Forrest Watkins same-sex marriages. Page 28, April 2013 District & Local News Advocate Advocate District & Local News Page 29, April 2013

Charleston District The Rev. Amee Paparella, director of Union UMC completes Phase One, prepares for Phase Two Grace UMC, Charleston, of- women’s advocacy for the General Board of Church and Society, led the BARNWELL – Union United Method- Phase 2 of the project is slated to fered a Lenten sermon series each discussion. ist Church is moving to the completion begin in the near future, which will Sunday. Topics included Running on College Place UMC, Columbia, of Phase 1 of its renovation and im- change the entire entrance to the edi- Empty, loving relationships, success, held a workday March 16 to work on provement project. fice. The work will increase the sanctu- raising families, finding peace, One the church building and grounds. The work included the merging of ary space, add two handicap accessible Thing Matters and joy. The Rev. Dick two buildings: free-standing fellowship restrooms, enlarge the narthex, add a Broomall is the pastor. hall and sanctuary with one small room new porch with stately columns and Hartsville District and cramped pastor’s study. The combi- railing, and add an exterior handicap Columbia District The youth of Trinity UMC, Sum- nation yielded two classrooms, enlarged ramp. A series of classes, “Religions in ter, will spend spring break in Orlando, pastor’s study and choir loft, secretary’s “The completed work will enhance 21st Century South Carolina: Every- Fla., working at Give Kids the World. office, enlarged kitchen, two handicap our capacity to minister to members and thing You Ever Wanted to Know About The youth will serve meals, play accessible restrooms and interior and guests alike and will do wonders for the Your Neighbor’s (or Your) Religion but games, wash dishes, cut grass and any- exterior handicap ramps. The fellow- membership’s morale,” Abram said. Were Afraid to Ask,” were held on suc- thing else they are asked to do. ship hall and adjacent hall (not part of Landrum, active attendant in service cessive Sundays at Columbia College the contract) were refurbished by the and wheelchair-bound, will be one of from 4-6:30 p.m. Module 1 (Judaism Marion District Rev. Joseph Abram Jr., a specialty con- the ones who will greatly benefit from and Christianity) was held in March. The Bennettsville-Cheraw Area tractor, to blend with other work. the improvements. Module 2 (Islam and the Baha’I Faith) Cooperative Ministry held a Youth- Upon the pastor’s recommenda- The work included the merging of two buildings: free-standing fellowship hall and sanctu- “And to see the ones who have been will be held on the Sundays in April. in-Christ celebration Feb. 22. Youth ary with one small room and cramped pastor’s study. Photo by Tom Brown tion and membership’s approval, the in the trenches, spiritually, still hav- Modules 3 and 4 will be offered in the were encouraged to recite poems, sing, classrooms will be named to honor a retired educator and widow of the late classroom will be named in honor of ing the means to come and encourage fall. perform skits and share worship mo- Mount Horeb UMC, Lexington, ‘Living in Grace’ member and a couple who have been United Methodist minister the Rev. Willie and Joyce Jennings Landrum, the troops and honor the Commander ments during an “Open Mic” prior to Dr. Kennon L. Callahan spoke on church effectiveness March 5-7 at St. John’s UMC, instrumental in the work of the church Lucious Cave, will be honored with the both retired educators from the public (Christ) makes all the work a joy for has 101 confirmands this year – the the worship service. Dana Salley was Aiken. Devotees gathered to hear his advice and forward-thinking ideas about the school over the year. Eliza M. Cave, a naming of one classroom. The second school system. me,” Abram said. most they’ve ever had. the speaker. On Feb. 23, the BCACM keys to effective churches in a talk titled “Living in Grace,” also the title of his latest Wesley Memorial UMC, Colum- sponsored two mini-workshops: De- book. He shared with attendees 12 decisive events of grace from his own experiences bia, held a Mad Hatter’s Tea Feb. 24 to to provide a helpful learning opportunity about the grace of God. Here, Callahan gath- veloping Creative Methodologies for ers for a smile with attendees, including senior pastor the Rev. George Howle. Relic goes to S.C. church thanks to international pulpit exchange raise awareness of domestic violence. Christian Education and Stewardship. FLORENCE – A very special relic was presented to chalice was presented to Morehead. Wesley, founder St. Paul United Methodist Church Feb. 24 as a gift of the Methodist Church, preached and held Society Cheraw history tour offered by First UMC, conference historical society from the Methodist Church of England. meetings in the Blackburn area around the year 1783. CHERAW – History buffs from across founded in 1822. well as neighboring Old St. David’s. and conclude with an introduction to The Rev. William M. Grady Jr., an active minister The glass goblet was retrieved from the Yorkshire South Carolina are invited to a pro- Members of First UMC have de- The iconic Old St. David’s was the last Cheraw’s award-winning cell phone in the Methodist Church of England, spent his child- Museum and given to the retired Methodist ministers gram and tour, “Church History Made veloped methods, both traditional and Anglican parish to be created by the tour of its historic district. hood and youth at St. Paul UMC in Florence. His of the Blackburn District. It was a group of the retired Vissible,” offered by the S.C. United using 21st-century techniques, to inter- Colonial Legislature. There, Francis The S.C. UMC Historical Society parents, Nancy “Nan” and Michael Grady, are still ministers who presented the goblet to Morehead. Methodist Conference Historical Soci- pret, preserve and display their vibrant Asbury led his first worship service in will meet for refreshments, followed active members of the church. They had decided that they would like for the goblet ety and First UMC, Cheraw. congregational and community history. South Carolina on Feb. 17, 1785. by a business meeting at 9:30 a.m. in The Rev. G. Dane Morehead serves the St. Paul to come to the U.S. Grady would return to England, Set for Saturday, April 20, at 10:45 Church historian and Cheraw-area art- The tour will also stop at the river First’s Fellowship Hall. Anyone inter- UMC as pastor today. In 2010, he and Grady did of course, and Morehead was asked to be a steward in a.m., the program and tour will reveal ist Cheryl Postlewait and First UMC crossing where Asbury first entered ested in joining the society is invited. a pulpit exchange for the entire month of October. the goblet’s journey to the States. the heritage of Methodism in Cheraw pastor Dr. Paul Wood will lead visitors South Carolina; Wesley UMC, home For more information, call 843-537- Grady served the pulpit at St. Paul UMC in Florence, Since St. Paul UMC is the “common thread” and historic First UMC, which was on a tour of First UMC’s facilities, as church of jazz great Dizzy Gillespie; 7002. while Morehead served the pulpits at Wilpshire and through all of this, it was decided that the church Mellor Methodist churches in the Blackburn Circuit should be the recipient of the goblet. Grady and John Wesley, father of Methodism, used this glass goblet as a Communion chalice. It was given to St. Paul UMC, of Lancashire, England. Morehead presented the goblet to St. Paul UMC in Florence, from the Methodist Church of England after a On the last Sunday morning of the pulpit exchange, a special service Feb. 24. St. Paul UMC is the only pulpit exchange. a glass goblet used by John Wesley as a Communion UMC in the U.S. to have such a relic. Wesley Women’s Conference helps women embrace new ways to care for their health, mind, spirit

AIKEN – For many women, finding a for good credit and how to save for way to take care of your health, mind the future. Part of having better health, and spirit can be a daunting task in the mind and spirit has a lot to do with the midst of family commitments, work status of our finances, she noted. and church life. Motivational speakers rounded The women of Wesley United out the conference. Audrey Hanna, Methodist Church, Aiken, understand president of Wesley United Methodist that completely. So they sponsored a Women, gave a keynote address titled, Women’s Conference March 9 to ad- “God Fix My Life.” dress those issues. The guest speaker was the Rev. An- The theme of the conference was gela McGhee, pastor of Ebenezer AME “My Heart Belongs to God, Women Church, Aiken. Focused on Better Health, Mind and “I really enjoyed this conference,” Newest deaconess reaches out Spirit.” A diverse group of women said Tina Gooden, a conference partici- The S.C. Conference’s newest deaconess, Selena Smith, spoke recently at two from as far as Charlotte gathered at pant. “It was different from any other churches. At top, she was the speaker for the Black History Program Feb. 24 at Clark Wesley to be a part of this one-day conference I’ve ever attended. It was UMC, Sumter. And at bottom, she spoke on spiritual growth at Bethany UMC, Sum- conference. fun and informative. My heart yearned merville, for the UMW’s general meeting Feb. 19. The conference events included rep- to serve the Lord more.” resentatives from local businesses such The UMW of Wesley believe that as Wells Fargo, Aiken Regional Medi- the conference symbolized the purpose cal Center and Mary Kay Cosmetics. for which they stand: to know God and Erica Baynham, branch manager of experience freedom as whole persons Wells Fargo-Aiken, spoke about the through Jesus Christ and to develop importance of women and their fi- creative and supportive fellowship nances. She also spoke about the need with each other. ADVERTISE HERE [email protected] Page 30, April 2013 District & Local News Advocate Advocate Obituaries Page 31, April 2013

Evelyn Denise Alford Chapel, North Charleston. UMC Trustee Fund, 245 S. Church St., DILLON – Evelyn Denise Alford, Memorials may be made to Epworth Obituary Policy Spartanburg, SC 29306; or to Spartan- sister of the Rev. Anthony Alford, died Children’s Home, 2900 Millwood Ave., The Advocate prints death notices of burg Regional Hospice Home, 686 Jeff Columbia, SC 29205. clergy and their immediate families Davis Drive, Spartanburg, SC 29303. Feb. 27. Rev. Alford serves the Mullins and laypersons who have served on Charge. Mrs. Cook is survived by her two conference boards and agencies or Mrs. Strother is survived by her Funeral services were held March 4 sons. who work for the S.C. Conference of husband and daughter. at Manning Baptist Church. The United Methodist Church. Ms. Alford is survived by her daugh- Lavan Michael “Van” Gray Glenn Thompson ter and son. BERRYVILLE, Va. – Lavan Michael with entombment in the Bell Tower CONWAY – Glenn Thompson, father “Van” Gray, brother of the Rev. Nellie Mausoleum, Robinson Memorial Gar- of the Rev. Kathy Heustess, died Feb. Mason Alexander displays Black History presentation of Albert Moss presents Diana Currence with a plaque for Doris Moss, president of Green Pond Seniors, recognizes Rachel Vernon Bame Cloninger, died March 18, 2013. Rev. dens, Easley. 20, 2013. Rev. Heustess is the execu- local and church community leaders. outstanding leadership within the church and community. members for exemplary service. WILMINGTON, N.C. – Rachel Vernon Cloninger is the pastor of the Bethel- Memorials may be made to St. tive director of the Coastal Samaritan Bame, grandmother of the Rev. Mol- Ebenezer Charge, Simpsonville. Mark UMC, 550 Hwy. 72 Bypass Counseling Center. Black History Month celebrated by Clover churches lie Bame Reddic, died March 8, 2013. A memorial service was held March NW, Greenwood, SC 29646; to Wes- Funeral services were held Feb. Rev. Reddic is the associate pastor 22 at the Enders & Shirley Funeral ley Commons, 1110 Marshall Road, 25 at Kirkpatrick Funeral Home in CLOVER – Clover Chapel and Green Pond United signs with a message saying “Segregation Must Die” ever you can.” Next year, the seniors hope to expand of Trenholm Road United Methodist Home Chapel, with a private burial. Greenwood, SC 29646; Easley First Washington C.H., Ohio, with burial in Methodist Churches recently held a series of events and marched respectfully and somberly down the to recognize city, county, and state representatives. Church, Columbia. Memorials may be made to the UMC, P.O. Box 582, Easley, SC 29641; Milledgeville-Plymouth Cemetery. A celebrating Black History Month. streets. Alexander said that this was a very moving Black History Month festivities concluded with a A memorial service was held March American Cancer Society, 2654 Valley or to HospiceCare of the Piedmont, 408 memorial service was held March 16 at Robert Wright and Mason Alexander spoke re- and poignant time in the history of their lives. Black History Celebration of all the African-Amer- 11 at St. Paul’s UMC, Carolina Beach, Ave., Suite B, Winchester, VA 22601; W. Alexander Ave., Greenwood, SC Trinity United Methodist garding the 1960 sit-in at S.H. Kress & Company in Green Pond Seniors celebrated with a “From Slav- ican churches in the Rock Hill District. The speaker with a private burial in Greenlawn to Col. James Wood II Chapter, Sons of 29646. Church. Orangeburg. Alexander, a member of Clover Chapel, ery to Freedom” breakfast on Feb. 16. The speaker for the event was Dr. Sheila Elliott, who gave an up- Memorial Park. the American Revolution, c/o Wayne Mr. Herbert is survived by his son Memorials may be made to Coastal shared that he remembered S.H. Kress & Company for the program was their pastor, the Rev. Sharon lifting message encouraging members to change their Memorials may be made to St. Berringer, P.O. Box 243, Middletown, and two daughters. Samaritan Counseling Center, 901 N. faithfully, as did many students who were patrons Spann Gamble, who spoke on the topic of “We Shall way of thinking about how they “used to” do things. Paul’s UMC, 300 N. 3rd St., Carolina VA 22645-0243; or to Marvin Chapel Kings Hwy., Myrtle Beach, SC 29577; at the local store located only a few blocks from the Overcome.” Albert Moss presented members of The Bible itself encourages us to change. Change is Beach, NC 28429. United Methodist Church, 1955 Shep- Hilda Clinkscales Purdy or to Trinity UMC, 198 Long Ave., school. Nevertheless, African-American students Green Pond with awards for outstanding services in indeed very necessary, not only for the needs of the Mrs. Bame is survived by her daugh- herds Mill Road, Berryville, VA 22611. LOWNDESVILLE – Hilda Clinkscales Conway, SC 29526. were not permitted to dine in the presence of white the church and within the community. Doris Moss, church but for salvation, as well, recognizing that ter and two sons. Mr. Gray is survived by his wife, Purdy, grandmother of Amber Wilson, Mr. Thompson is survived by his patrons. He told about being one of the students president of the seniors group, said Green Pond an- God’s way is indeed the best way. Deborah, and two daughters. died Feb. 27, 2013. Mrs. Wilson is the wife, Barbara Sells Thompson, and pulled away from his seat and ejected from the store. nually recognizes members in the church and com- We all are encouraged to embrace change, she G. Fitzhugh Beazley wife of the Rev. Jason Wilson, pastor daughter. This was indeed a historic moment in time as they munity for exemplary services, believing this is an said, as Scripture states, “And be not conformed to WEST COLUMBIA – Dr. G. Fitzhugh John Franklin Grigsby of Grace United Methodist Church, sought to seek God’s message for social justice for instance of John Wesley’s famous quote, “Do all the this world: but be ye transformed (changed) by the Beazley, a longtime member of the S.C. BENNETTSVILLE – John Franklin Abbeville. Robell White all. good you can. By all the means you can. In all the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is Annual Conference Board of Pension Grigsby, son of the Rev. Jim Grigsby, Funeral services were held March LYNCHBURG – Robell White, mother On March 15, 1960, students were hosed down, ways you can. In all the places you can. At all the that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God” and Health Benefits, died Feb. 16, died Feb. 14, 2013. Rev. Grigsby is 1 at Providence Presbyterian Church, of the Rev. Ellis White, died Feb. 21, jailed and put behind fences. The students had carried times you can. To all the people you can. As long as (Romans 12:2 KJV). 2013. a retired member of the S.C. Annual with burial in the church cemetery. 2013. A memorial service was held March Conference of The United Methodist Memorials may be made to Provi- Rev. White is the pastor of Camden 2 at Cayce United Methodist Church. Church. dence Presbyterian Church Cemetery First United Methodist Church, Cam- Greenwood, Orangeburg laity to gather for rally Memorials may be made to Cayce Funeral services were held Feb. 21 Fund, P.O. Box 226, Lowndesville, SC den. UMC, 1600 12th St., Cayce, SC 29033; at Ebenezer UMC. A graveside ser- 29659. Funeral services were held March 1 Registration is going on now for mine Smothers will serve as speakers from Forth Shade Avenue of Simp- Kelly, Alice McKeil and Ann Shel- or Still Hopes Retirement Community, vice was held Feb. 23 at Emory UMC, Mrs. Purdy is survived by her three at St. John UMC. a huge two-district rally to mobilize for the three-in-one event, which offers sonville. With the theme “Fruits of the ton. Children will hear the Pentecost 1 Still Hopes Drive, West Columbia, Saluda. sons. United Methodist laity. something for all age groups – includ- Spirit,” the day will begin with games story through a biblical storyteller, then SC 29169. Memorials may be made to Bread of Called “Igniting the Fire, Stirring the ing plenty of music. The Lay Rally is and music, followed by experiential choose from a variety of activities: Mildred Opal Whited Dr. Beazley is survived by his wife, Life Food Pantry, P.O. Box 1482, Ben- Soul,” the Greenwood and Orangeburg designed for adults, the Children’s Rally worship, lunch, music, more games, drama, arts and crafts, music, cooking, Betty Roper Strother WHITWELL, Tenn. – Mildred Opal Anne T. Beazley, two daughters and nettsville, SC 29512. District Lay Rally is set for April 20 is for infants through fifth graders, and more worship and the speaker. The games and science. Lunch and snacks SPARTANBURG – Betty Roper Bryant Whited, mother of the Rev. Tim son. Mr. Grigsby is survived by his son. from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Batesburg- the Youth Rally is for teens. event ends at 2 p.m. will round out the day. Strother, wife of the Rev. Robert Gar- Whited, died March 17, 2013. Rev. Leesville High School, in Batesburg- The Youth Rally will feature Smoth- The Children’s Rally brings the Cost for the rally is $15/person, field Strother, died March 13, 2013. Whited is the pastor of Salem United Leesville. ers as keynote and Matthew Greer and theme “Pentecost: Catch the Spar,” including lunch. For more: gwdist@ Katherine Wilson Cook Thad Herbert Rev. Strother is a retired member of the Methodist Church, Salem. The Revs. Bill Bouknight and Jas- Shelly Holder as leaders, with music and features leaders Ruth Arant, Kathy umcsc.org or [email protected]. SUMMERVILLE – Katherine Wilson GREENWOOD – Thad Herbert, S.C. Annual Conference of The United Funeral services were held March 19 Cook, mother of the Rev. David Phil- former treasurer of the S.C. Annual Methodist Church. at Whitwell Memorial Funeral Home lips, died Feb. 25, 2013. Rev. Phillips is Conference of the United Methodist Funeral services were held March 17 Chapel, with burial in Whitwell Memo- the pastor of the Jamestown Charge. Church, died March 1, 2013. at Bethel UMC, with burial in Green- rial Cemetery. Funeral services were held March A memorial service was held March lawn Memorial Gardens. Mrs. Whited is survived by her three 1 at Carolina Memorial Funeral Home 5 at Asbury Hall, Wesley Commons, Memorials may be made to Bethel sons and daughter. Resource Center

New adult studies in the Resource Christians and the church rightfully and revolution- musicals. They are here to serve your Center: place an emphasis on identifying and ize their lives church family. To reserve resources, eradicating sin...but what if we’re actu- by learning to call 888-678-6272 or visit www.umcsc. FIVE THINGS GOD USES TO ally missing the point? What if all sin form meaning- org/resourcecenter. GROW YOUR FAITH (DVD1235CL=) has a common root, a core issue that ful relationships, Six ses- we typically fail to address? In his latest starting with God Photos by Ron Towery sions,15-20 min work, Kyle Idleman challenges us with and branch- Subscribe to the Serving others in Spartanburg each/participant’s the thought that perhaps all sin springs ing out from The Spartanburg District of the S.C. Conference held their Great Day of Service Feb. 24, ministering with the community through the assembling of cleaning buckets for storm vic- guide/2009. from the same source: idolatry. While there. Age: YAS. Advocate tims. More than 10 churches and 75 people gathered, filling 40 buckets in 15 minutes.The traveling choir from Spartanburg Methodist College, the Troubadours, sang for the crowd, What would it we may not see many “graven images” The S.C. and representatives from Asbury Hills, the Bethlehem Center in Spartanburg and other local ministries set up displays to inform folks about what they do to help. be like to have in our world today, Kyle argues that Conference $15 print, $8 online perfect faith? there are still countless gods passion- Resource Center is your connection See Page 3 Find out in Andy ately at war for the throne of our heart. to VHS tapes, DVDs and seasonal AC2012 Stanley’s dynamic If we put the wrong god on the throne, group study! The our lives will be thrown into chaos, six sessions will and all our efforts at sin management Prayer and self denial journal now spark discussion about approaching will be futile. Only by recognizing our The fellowship hall of Asbury UMC, Lynchburg, was the setting for an ecumenical United Methodist Women Call to each day with unshakable confidence; misplaced worship and by enthroning Prayer and Self Denial Breakfast, held March 2. The intent online belief in God’s control; and trust in his Jesus can we experience freedom and was to equip attendees to live the heart of God in the world purposes. Discover how God uses life. Age: YAS. so they learn how to can help build up the body of Christ. Lay The 2012 Annual Conference practical teaching, providential rela- THE MANCODE (DVD1236MN=) Speaker Margie Vaughn, Asbury UMW spiritual growth coor- Journal is now available online as free tionships, private disciplines, personal Six sessions, 30 min. each/leader’s dinator, welcomed attendees to enjoy a breakfast prepared by some of Asbury’s top cooks. Tables were set with cen- downloadable pdf documents. ministry and pivotal circumstances to guide/field manual/2012. terpieces of lilac. Shonta’ Mitchell, Asbury UMW president, To access this, go to www.umcsc. grow your faith. Age: YAS. This series, “The Man Code: Unlock- extended a special thanks to several who helped make the org/home/?page_id=2196, or go to the GODS AT WAR (DVD1239CL=) ing the Potential of Life’s Most Impor- event possible. Mary Lou Dickey, known as “Granny” in the Journal tab in the top navigation bar Six sessions, 20 min. each/leader’s tant Relationships,” is a powerful tool Asbury church family, provided music. and click on 2012 Journal. guide/participant’s guide/2012. to help men reorganize their thoughts Page 32, April 2013 Seniors Advocate Advocate Seniors Page 33, April 2013 Wrinkles in Paradise Alan Johnson fundraiser to help Broad Street’s WARM ministry by Wanda Lane CLINTON – A hot rod star will help free door prizes, an autograph session, raise money for the WARM winteriza- free racetrack entry with ticket and two tion project at one local church. drag race ride-a-long tickets. There An Easter story The Men’s Club of Broad Street will also be a grand prize drawing United Methodist Church, Clinton, for two pit pass tickets for the NHRA ddly, this Easter story starts for a Sunday morning, and long before presents Alan Johnson, 2012 National national event in Commerce, Ga. on Halloween, known on needed for Easter. Hot Rod Association Pro Stock World Adult entry fee is $10, and children the church calendar as All That is, all but one. One bulb Champion, on Monday, April 22, from under 12 are free. Fee includes a hot Saints Day. produced only a leaf six inches long. 6-8 p.m. Held at the church’s Cun- dog supper with Johnson as speaker. OChildren celebrate with ghosts, It grew no longer and developed no ningham Center, the event features For information: 864-833-0177. goblins and trick-or-treating. Adults further. As each bulb bloomed and then seek a deeper experience by remem- faded, I set it in the garage untended. bering departed family and friends and, The one that failed to thrive joined the in faith, feeling reassurance that their others. The pots sat forlorn and forgot- Seniors in red loved ones have risen in spirit as Christ ten in the garage. The months passed, Mount Harmony UMC, Clover, celebrated its Red Hat Society Program March 10. Standing together did. and Easter arrived. Sponsored by Magdalene Robbins, the society originated more than 10 years ago The United Methodist Men at St. John UMC, Lynchburg, held their first prayer The pastor and I, as worship chair, On Easter Sunday, the altar was promoting fellowship and Christianity within the church and community. The speaker breakfast March 2, gathering together in fellowship to encourage one another sought to symbolize this concept for decorated with lilies. In their splendor, for the event was church pastor the Rev. Sharon Spann Gamble. Other churches in in Christlikeness, challenge one another to be faithful in their responsibilities the community also participated in the event. People older than 50 years of age wore as men and intercede for their families and church. Arkus Frierson (left), the congregation. We decided to use the trumpet flowers of each heralded red hats, while those under 50 wore different colored hats. minister from New Zion Baptist Church #1, was guest speaker, and the flower bulbs displayed in simplicity the triumphant risen Christ. It was Shiloh Charge Male Chorus (right) brought powerful, uplifting music for those on small white saucers to represent de- beautiful. gathered. The UMM at St. John focus on standing together, reaching out to ceased members of our church. I chose After church on Easter, as I re- men of every race, age and denomination. amaryllis bulbs, trusting that the big trieved an item from the garage, I hap- bulbs would symbolize the resurgence pened to glance at the neglected pots. of new life about to begin. There among the 11 faded amaryllis While shopping for the amaryllis, stood one stem, the failed pot from the it occurred to me that the bulbs could fall, proud and strong with two white serve symbolically in two ways. For blossoms – the only pure white blooms All Saints’ Day, they could represent produced by the bulbs I had bought. It the deceased souls, and if handled had received no nurturing attention for properly, could be blooming for Easter months, and yet it stood in full glory representing the resurrected souls. among the discarded pots, blooming Pleased with my plan, I selected the with passion and strength on Easter. bulbs choosing colors of light and I felt an unusual sense of peace and dark red and variegated red and spiritual presence as I took it inside. white. Was this surely not a sign of the vic- The service in October was mean- tory of Easter? ingful with the bulbs displayed, and Arranged with palm fronds behind as I removed them from the altar, I it, the All-Saint’s-Day-turned-Easter- recommitted to the plan to time their amaryllis became to me another living blooming for Easter. symbol of God’s Easter miracle. Alas. That’s where my novice status Lane is a member of Church of the as gardener, in tandem with Mother Palms United Methodist Church in Nature, foiled my intentions. Bluffton, where she serves as worship The plants grew tall with incredible chair. She also writes a senior life speed and sprouted big buds at the top style column, “Wrinkles in Paradise,” of each stem. They bloomed – mag- for The Island Packet in Hilton Head nificent, beautiful trumpet-like flowers. and has published a book by the same They burst into wondrous beauty, but title. She can be reached at thelanes@ never at the same time, never beautiful hargray.com.

Leave A Legacy To Change Lives

The South Carolina United Methodist Foundation P. O. Box 5087, Columbia, SC 29250-5087 [email protected] Page 34, April 2013 Upcoming Events Advocate Advocate International Bible School Lessons Page 35, April 2013

March April 9 – Understanding Dementia with Donald Davis, Lake Junalus- April 26-28 – S.C. United Methodist filled with the Holy Spirit and be- salvation through our Lord Jesus encourage your hearts and give Women’s History Month training, Keeping the Communica- ka, N.C. www.lakejunaluska.com/ Youth Choir Festival, Springmaid By the Rev. Mitch Houston gan to speak in other languages as Christ.” you strength in every good thing tion Going: Dementia Information stories-by-the-lakeshore Beach Resort, Myrtle Beach. the Spirit enabled them to speak.” Paul’s letter to the Thessalonians is you do or say.” Houston pastors Salem March 28 – Maundy Thursday Stream, Methodist Manor, 2-4 www.scfellowship.com UMC, Irmo. Bishop William Willimon tells us considered the oldest piece of Christian In the children’s story “Chicken p.m. Adelle Stanley, leader. 843- April 19-21 – Confirmation Retreat there is no Pentecost without Easter. literature. It was written some 20 years Little,” Chicken Little is hit in the head 664-0700. Weekend, Lake Junaluska, N.C. April 27 – 5th Annual Cook-Out for Kids March 29 – Good Friday So therefore let us realize that Acts 2 is after the resurrection and some 20 with a falling acorn. She thinks the sky www.lakejunaluska.com/confirma- fundraiser, Epworth Children’s April 12-14 – Global Health and Hu- tion Home, Columbia, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. simply a continuation of Luke 24. years before the Gospel of Mark. Thes- is falling. Chicken Little goes to tell the March 30 – Stop Hunger Now Charity The community of believers had salonica was the Roman capital of the King. Along the way, Chicken Little Classic Golf Tournament, Hejaz manitarian Summit, Emory Uni- Frank Sharp, 864-230-8929; or April 7 retreated to the Upper Room to pray Province of Macedonia. tells everyone she meets that the sky is Golf Course, Mauldin, 11:30 a.m. versity. ghhs2013.org April 20 – Joint District Lay Rally for Mitzie Schafer, 803-256-7394. The Lord appears the Greenwood and Orangeburg Lesson Scripture: Luke 24:36-53 and wait for God to speak. God spoke The early church held the belief that falling. She receives various remarks March 31 – Easter Sunday April 13 – Dinner Theatre “Are You the districts, Batesburg-Leesville High April 29 – 21st Annual Killingsworth Background Scripture: Luke 24:36-53 through the sending of the Holy Spirit Christ would return during their life- and suggestions. As Chicken Little con- King of the Jews?”, Mount Holly School, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., $15 per Golf Tournament, Indian River Key Verse: Luke 24:44, “These are my in a powerful and perplexing way. The time (parousia). So now the question tinues on her way to see the King, her UMC, Rock Hill, 6 p.m. Tickets: person. Jim Arant, jarant@umcsc. Golf Club, West Columbia. 10 words that I spoke to you while story of Pentecost is miraculous beyond was, “What happens to those who have companions join her. When the group $6. Proceeds to support Salke- org a.m. tee time. 803-771-6359. our understanding. Many truths can be died prior to Christ’s return?” For the meets Foxy Loxy, they hear what could April hatchie Summer Service Ministry. I was still with you – that every- April 4-7 – Caring for God’s Creation, drawn from Luke’s writing in Acts 2. young believers who expected Christ at first be considered assistance. Foxy April 20 – Youth Yard Sale, Trinity thing written about me in the Law Lake Junaluska, N.C. www.lakeju- May Drawing from the key verse, we find to return again in their lifetime, it was Loxy offers not only to take them to see April 13 – Stop Hunger Now Packaging UMC, Easley, 7 a.m.-1 p.m. 864- Christian Home Month; of Moses, the Prophets, and the naluska.com/caring-for-creation that the resurrected Jesus called them difficult to accept that loved ones might the King, he will show them a shortcut. Event, Advent UMC, Simpsonville, 859-4584. Asian Pacific American Heritage Month Psalms must be fulfilled.” 7:30 a.m.-7:30 p.m. The disciples and others had gath- to be witnesses to all people. In the have already died before he returns. Of course, he was really planning to April 5-7 – Confirmation Retreat Week- April 21 – Festival of God’s Creation May 2 – National Day of Prayer ered in the Upper Room. Reports were community, all who were divided now To minister to them in their grief (vs. take them to his lair and do evil. end, Lake Junaluska, N.C. www. April 14 – Native American Awareness became one and had all things in com- 13-15) Paul quotes a creed common Much of the same chaos, confusion lakejunaluska.com/confirmation coming from Peter, the women who Sunday April 22-25 – Older Adults Mission May 3 – May Friendship Day had been at the tomb and Cleopas that mon. The message that often gets lost to them: Jesus died; Jesus arose. He and evil was taking place in 2 Thes- Event, Orangeburg. Doris Seals: in the story of Pentecost is that now affirms what God has done in Jesus he salonians 2:1-3. In Paul’s first Letter to April 6 – Inauguration Ceremony of “the Lord has risen.” They listened April 14 – Dinner Theatre “Are You the 803-786-9486 or www.umcsc.org/ May 3-5 – UMW Spiritual Growth Re- they are an inclusive community. The will do for each believer. the Thessalonians, he raises the topic Elizabeth A. Dinndorf, Columbia in hope-filled amazement. Suddenly, King of the Jews?”, Mount Holly PDF/upcomingevents/2013OARM treat, Lake Junaluska, N.C. College president, College Place Jesus appeared in their midst and said, struggle of the early church and of the In the key verse, Paul encourages the of the parousia (Christ’s second com- UMC, Rock Hill, 6 p.m. Tickets: issionBrochure.pdf church of today is to be inclusive. believers in Thessalonica to leave the ing; they believed He would return in UMC, 2 p.m. $6. Proceeds to support Salke- “Peace be with you,” but they were May 4 – Blessing of the Inlet, Belin Fred Craddock tells the story of a “future resurrection” to God and live their lifetime). The first crisis was the hatchie Summer Service Ministry. April 23-24 – UMVIM/UMCOR Cel- Memorial UMC, Murrells Inlet, 9 afraid. They thought they were seeing a April 7 – Easter Cantata “Upon This church in a once small town. The town as People of the Light. Paul encour- grief over the loved ones who had died ebration, Scarritt Bennett Center, a.m.-4 p.m. ghost or a spirit. Rock,” Church of the Palms UMC April 14 – Columbia District Youth Nashville, Tenn. umvimwj@ Jesus invited them to touch, feel boomed overnight. Workers and their ages them to live lives of faith, hope before Christ returned. But now a new Chancel Choir, 8:30 a.m., 10:30 Event, The Circle, Epworth Chil- hotmail.com or ujones@umc May 5 – The Ministry of Ushering and and see the scars of the crucifixion. To families were living in trailer parks and love, encouraging and helping one crisis arises. There were those who had a.m. Greeting Orangeburg District dren’s Home, Columbia mission.org. further remove doubt, Jesus took from made up of recreational vehicles, another. convinced the young believers Christ training, Barnwell UMC, Barnwell, trucks, tents and wagons. The church John Wesley would challenge those had returned and they had missed him. April 9 – UMW Mission Day of Service April 18 – Stories by the Lakeshore April 25 – World Malaria Day 3:30-5 p.m. them fish and ate. Ignatius, a second century bishop, paraphrased Jesus as was a beautiful, 112-year-old white that Paul called People of the Light Thus there was chaos and confusion. saying, “See that I am not a bodiless frame building with an old pump organ to live lives of personal holiness. For Paul was clear that however the ghost.” The evidence of a bodily resur- that was played by Ms. Lois. The chim- Wesley, there was both an inward and message was delivered, it was false. He rection was important to Luke. The neys were beautifully decorated and outward dimension to personal holi- called the unknown deliverer “a man of early church was facing many skeptics. kerosene lamps hung from the walls. ness. Inward holiness is the renewing sin” whose purpose was to do evil and The Greek philosophers would ad- Every pew was hand-hewed from a gi- of our hearts and minds through Christ: confuse the young believers. Classified Advertisements vise that only the soul could be immor- ant poplar tree. “When we recognize God’s forgiving The Church then and now suffers tal. But the bodily resurrection affirms To the leaders of the church, Fred love in Jesus Christ, we are filled with under those who want to predict the that Jesus was human, lived, suffered a said, “We need to launch a campaign love for God and share in outward Ho- coming of Jesus rather than be involved painful death and now appeared among in those trailer parks to invite those liness. The Holy Spirit cultivates in us in ministries that are consistent with the Church Furnishings To place your ad, contact Allison today Positions Open people to church.” The leaders replied, the desires and habits pleasing to God qualities and hopes of the Gospel. We at 888-678-6272 or [email protected]. them. The Gospel teaches that Jesus died and God raised him from the dead. “I don’t think they’d fit in here. They’re including love and encouragement for are called to live lives of discipleship Pew Upholstering – Reversible Cushions Part-Time Positions: just temporary, construction people, one another.” that embodies the grace and love of New Pews – Pew Refinishing Music Director and This is the fundamental truth for all Classifed ads start at $19 per inch tall. believers. From that central affirmation, you know. They’ll be gone before you So we therefore now live as People God. We prepare for his return by mak- Audio/Video Systems Contemporary Worship Leader know it.” After some discussion it was of the Light, not worrying about when ing disciples for Jesus Christ. What are www.churchinteriors.com Website ads are also available Luke wants the believer to know God (www.advocatesc.org). Broad Street United Methodist Church in Clin- has acted in a powerful, unique way. decided that it would be voted on the Christ shall come again, but having the ministries of your church that make ton, SC, is seeking a part-time Director of Mu- The key verse tells us that Jesus next Sunday. The next Sunday at the the hope of the resurrected Lord in our disciples? sic and a Contemporary Worship Leader. Broad Deadlines are the 10th of the month is actually teaching them to read the meeting after church, one leader said, hearts as we live each day with one Paul ends this discourse with a pow- Street has a traditional worship service and a “I move that in order to be a member of another. erful benediction of God’s goodness High Point, North Carolina for the following month’s paper. Scriptures. The Scriptures are the contemporary service on Sunday mornings. The this church you have to own property Do we in our communities of faith and hope in their midst. Paul says, “re- 1-800-289-7397 Director is expected to rehearse and direct the oracles of God. Jesus tells them he is in the county.” The vote carried with all live lives of personal holiness so that main steadfast in your faith.” For those chancel choir and the adult bell choir, and coor- the fulfillment of the Scriptures. Jesus Free Estimates dinate with the pastor on worship music. The did not abolish the Law of Moses, the voting in agreement except Fred. others can find the hope of Christ in our who are steadfast, God will 1) show Positions Open Contemporary Worship Leader will provide lead- prophets and the Psalms but fulfilled Years later, Fred and his wife took a witness? his love to them; 2) through grace give NEW Steeple cleaning service ership for the contemporary service, praise bands them in their midst. Jesus is talking trip back to visit the church. After much everlasting comfort and good hope; and Full-Time Preschool Assistant Director April 28 and worship team, and coordinate with the pas- about the Resurrection: “The bodily searching, they found the pretty little 3) comfort their hearts and strengthen New Pews • Pew Upholstering • Pew Refinishing • Pulpit Seeking candidate with Bachelor’s degree in tor on worship music. Staff musicians shall work white frame building. What a surprise! Hope from God’s grace them in every good work and word. Furniture • Carpet • Steeples/Baptistries • Chime Systems manifestation of God’s word never ECE or related field, three years experience to sustain and to grow our musical programs and • Stained Glass • Classroom Furniture • Office Furniture • passes. God’s word never dies.” There The parking lot was full. There was a Lesson Scripture: 2 Thessalonians What a powerful way to end. Love, in teaching and/or program administration. to enrich the congregation’s worship experiences. new sign out front that read, “Barbe- 2:1-3, 9-17 grace and hope do not come at some Social Hall Furniture • Budget & Project Analysis • Project Experience should include staff supervision, is now continuity between the historical Management cue – all you can eat.” The church was Background Scripture: 2 Thessalo- distant future – Christ has not come program and curriculum planning. Candidate Jesus and the Old Testament Scriptures. The salary for the separate, or combined, positions now a restaurant. Inside, the pews were nians 2 again. But through the Holy Spirit, gifts should meet DSS licensing requirements, will be negotiated commensurate with the level of We should understand the Scriptures Nu-Idea pushed against the wall and Ms. Lois’ Key Verses: 2 Thessalonians 2:16-17, of love, grace and hope have come and possess knowledge of NAEYC accreditation education and experience of the applicant. The po- always hold a future promise. We can’t organ was tucked in a back corner. “Our Lord Jesus Christ himself will remain with them and us: “Those Church Furnishings criteria, and have a strong commitment sitions will be available beginning in June, 2013. totally explain the resurrection, but Sumter, South Carolina to the childcare profession with excellent Send resumes and contact information to BSUMC, when we experience it through God’s There were plastic tables filled with all and God our Father loved us and gifts strengthen the community and communication and computer skills. Detailed 1-800-922-0424 PO Box 204, Clinton, SC 29325, or BSUMC e-mail word, we find the forgiveness, grace kinds of people eating and talking. Fred through grace gave us eternal form the basis for hopeful expectation job description available at www.shandon- www.nu-idea.com address: [email protected]. Visit our web- and presence of Jesus is in our midst. said to his wife, “All kinds of people, comfort and a good hope. May he and faithful living.” umc.org/preschool.asp. Qualified applicants site at: www.broadstreet-umc.org. Phone number Parthians and Medes and Edomites and “Serving South Carolina’s churches since 1921” Jesus sends them forth and pro- should email resume: sumpk@shandon-umc. 864-833-0177. claims, “You shall be my witnesses to dwellers of Mesopotamia.” Fred turned org or mail to Shandon United Methodist to his wife and said quietly, “It’s a good Preschool and Kindergarten, 3407 Devine the resurrection beginning in Jerusalem Broad Street is a mid-sized church located in thing this is not still a church. Other- Street, Columbia, South Carolina, 29206. and to all nations.” This is a statement Positions Open downtown Clinton, a city of about 9,000 people. It wise, these people couldn’t be in here.” is in the Piedmont region of South Carolina and of inclusiveness. Jesus died and was How does the power of the Holy First United Methodist Church, Cheraw, SC, is Part-Time Director of Music is home to Presbyterian College. The sanctuary is resurrected for all people. The story for Grace United Methodist Church equipped with sound system, a three manual Zim- ends as they witnessed the ascension. Spirit speak to your church community seeking a fulltime Director of Youth and Chil- through this story? dren’s Ministries. In cooperation with active mer pipe organ, and a Yamaha grand piano. The They were in the Temple in Jerusalem Coordinates the music ministries of a dynamic adults, this staff member will plan and manage church has an extensive choral library and dedi- praising God. It is no accident that April 21 the congregation’s ministries with youth and and growing church, directs the Chancel Choir, cated rehearsal space. Luke’s Gospel ends where it begins – supervises the accompanist, and performs other children. Send your resume to sprc@fumccher- in the midst of believers, in the church! Living with hope Rebuilding Lives for a Safer Community aw.net or to First UMC, Attn: Mrs. Lib Norton, 117 activities related to music within the church. This Lesson Scripture: 1 Thessalonians An Advance Special Ministry of the United Methodist Church that provides of- Third St., Cheraw, SC 29520. position reports to the pastor with administrative 4:13-5:11 fenders, former offenders, the homeless, at-risk youth, veterans and their families oversight by the staff-parish relations commit- April 14 Background Scripture: 1 Thessalo- the tools they need to become productive citizens. tee. Full position description is available. Send Moving? The Holy Spirit comes nians 4:13-5:11 resume and letter to SPRC Chair, Grace United Don’t forget to send us Lesson Scripture: Acts 2:1-13 Your help is needed as a volunteer or member. Contact us today. Subscribe today! Methodist Church, 410 Harbison Blvd., Columbia, Key Verse: 1 Thessalonians 5:9, “God go online to www.advocatesc.com your new address! www.alstonwilkessociety.org • 803.799.2490 SC 29212. No calls please. Background Scripture: Acts 2:1-36 didn’t intend for us to suffer or call Allison at 888-678-6272 Key Verse: Acts 2:4, “They were all his wrath but rather to possess Page 36, April 2013 Advocate Better. Free church leadership event is Chapin UMC’s gift to conference

By Jessica Connor styles of worship. How can the church do everything “We are very excited about the op- better – and attract new souls in the portunity Better presents for both laity process? and clergy to come together and learn That’s the aim of a free daylong from each other,” Flowers said. “We church leadership conference, Better, truly believe Better will be used by offered Sept. 26 to the S.C. Conference God in some amazing ways to bring of The United Methodist Church by renewed hope and renewed vision to Chapin UMC, Chapin. the precious hearts and churches of Headlining the Better conference S.C. and beyond.” are S.C. UMC Resident Bishop Jona- Already, two out-of-state churches than Holston, national church author/ are planning on attending, in addition speaker Dr. John Ed Mathison, former to the many already registered from Gamecock quarterback-turned-coach within the conference. Steve Taneyhill and Chapin senior pas- Space is limited and filling up fast. tor the Rev. Jody Flowers. Register at www.better2013.com. In addition to the speaker lineup and For questions, email better2013@ breakout sessions, focusing on help- chapinumc.com or call 803-345-2801. ing participants become better church leaders in order to take their church to the next level, Better will also include lunch, snacks, giveaways and more, all absolutely free. Giveaways include a flat screen TV, iPad mini, Kindle Fire, $50 gas cards to the first 50 churches to register at least four people, 1.5 continuing education units for pastors, and more. A conference of this magnitude happening entirely without charge to attendees is quite unique, Flowers said. “In all of our years of attending conferences, we have never experi- enced something like this,” Flowers said, encouraging church leaders across the conference to attend. “It’s all free because of the generosity of Chapin UMC and because of their love for the UMC. About three years ago, one of our senior members came to me and said, ‘When are we going to do something to help other churches?’ The Better conference is an attempt to do just that.” Flowers said Chapin UMC is invest- ing more than $20,000 in this confer- ence because they have a strong desire to see what God is doing in Chapin be done across the state – and across the denomination. Chapin UMC was recognized in 2011 as one of about 30 U.S. churches named by the Foundation for Evange- lism as a “vibrant church.” It had about 260 members when Flowers arrived in 2001. Twelve years and a lot of hard work later, the church now draws nearly 1,500 in worship each week – nearly 1,300 more souls. Critical to Chapin UMC’s rapid growth was their decision to become a dual-track church, placing exactly equal emphasis on both traditional and contemporary

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