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$2 September 2013 Guiding Modern-day campus circuit riders ministries Task force to explore

Blueberries plan for growth, funding for missions – Page 3 By Jessica Connor

A new task force has begun work this fall exploring the unique and criti- cal needs of campus ministries in South Carolina. Headed by the Rev. Josh McClen- don, associate pastor at Shandon United Methodist Church, Columbia, the task force will examine leadership, oversight, growth, sustainability and financial need, ultimately fleshing out a strategic plan for campus ministries that helps it shift strongly into the future. Post-retirement, Thomas “The idea is what does campus minis- still on fire for Christ – Page 2 try look like going forward?” McClendon said, calling the program “terribly impor- tant” for the UMC as a whole. Index Classifieds...... 34 See “Campus Ministries,” Page 16 Education & Youth...... 13-15 Health & Fitness...... 26-27 History...... 28 Three S.C. Local & District News...... 30-31 Ministries & Missions...... 20-24 Obituaries...... 29 Salkehatchie...... 25 clergy to lead Seniors...... 32-33 Upcoming Events...... 34 major UMC groups By Jessica Connor

Photo by Jessica Connor Three of South Carolina’s own – Dr. A group of bikers in the Columbia District hopes to reach the unchurched through Susan Henry-Crowe, Dr. Colleen Keith a new motorcycle ministry called the United Methodist Circuit Riders. and the Rev. Telley Gadson – will assume @AdvocateSC | AdvocateSC.org major leadership roles within the global United Methodist Church. District’s motorcycle ministry Henry-Crowe was elected chief ex- ecutive of the UMC’s General Board of reaches out in Christ Church and Society, effective in February. Keith was named president of the UMC’s By Jessica Connor interest. National Association of Schools and Col- “I relate to people who ride motor- leges. And Gadson was elected president GILBERT – How do we reach out cycles, so I can talk to people who ride of the National Black Clergy Women to the unchurched and bring them to motorcycles,” said John Barnett, an ac- of The United Methodist Church – the Christ? tive member of Beulah United Method- youngest ever to serve in that capacity. For a group of bikers in the Colum- ist Church, Gilbert, who founded the “It’s an honor for the S.C. Conference bia District, you start by revving up the district-wide ministry. “You don’t bring to be represented in so many wonderful engine and hitting the open road. unchurched believers in by staying in ways nationally through the leadership Through a brand new motorcycle the church. You’ve got to get outside positions of our talented clergy,” said ministry called the United Methodist the walls of the church, go out and talk Matt Brodie, conference director of com- Circuit Riders, these open-air riders to people at their level, and you can’t go munications. “The national recognition are hoping to turn biker neighbors say, ‘Hey, have you got a minute to talk they received shows we have some of the into Christian brothers and sisters by best in the country.” relating to them through their shared See “Circuit Riders,” Page 19 See “Three Leaders,” Page 17 Page 2, September 2013 Advocate Advocate September 2013, Page 3 No slowing down Post-retirement, Rev. Thomas still passionately active for Christ By Jessica Connor

BISHOPVILLE – He might be officially retired as a pastor, but the Rev. Eddie Thomas is just as active in his golden Hours/Location years as he was during full-time ministry. Open Monday through Friday 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Thomas not only serves as president S.C. United Methodist Conference of the Bishopville-based ministry Good Center Samaritans for All People, but he also 4908 Colonial Drive, Suite 207 Photos by Jessica Connor Columbia, SC 29203 preaches a weekly worship service for The work is time-consuming and arduous; the berries cannot be picked until they are per- For Susan Busby, serving God involves a white plastic bucket, her fingertips and up to six Deadlines: 10th of each month. seniors at the Lee County Council on fectly ripe, and they must be picked individually, never in clusters. hours a day harvesting the blueberry patches on her family farm. Aging, preaches a few times a month Contacting Us Telephone: 888-678-6272 or 803-786- elsewhere on invitation and is active in 9486 his local American Legion, Veterans of Fax: 803-735-8168 Foreign Wars and S.C. Combat Soldiers Blueberries for missions E-mail: [email protected] groups. Submissions Both as a nod to his nonprofit and to The Advocate encourages readers to his lifestyle, many people have dubbed Platt Springs member sells entire crop to benefit missions at church submit for publication items of interest to South Carolina United Methodists. him the “good Samaritan” of Bishopville. By Jessica Connor hatchie team. in clusters. It takes her about an hour to right, spending her mornings and eve- There is no charge for running items “He really does do what he can for “I thought, ‘Well, my goodness, if pick a quart of blueberries, which she nings picking blueberries for the Lord, involving activities or announcements. everybody,” said Pauline Mitchell, chair COLUMBIA – Some people ladle soup John can do that and I have blueber- sells for about $5. and enjoying God’s abundance in the Items should be submitted as far as possible in advance of the event’s date of the Council on Aging. for the homeless. Others organize mis- ries growing in the yard that the birds “They’re not like tomatoes where process. or the date of requested publication. With a Purple Heart from service in Photos by Jessica Connor sion trips. Still others donate thousands are eating, why can’t I do that?’” they continue to ripen,” Busby ex- “It’s something that’s really impor- Since there is no charge for these Rev. Eddie Thomas holds up a just-stuffed food bag, which was given out at one of the give- items, they appear in the newspaper on the Vietnam War, two Bronze Stars and aways Good Samaritans for All People holds throughout the year to help the poor in Bishopville. upon thousands of dollars. Busby said, laughing. “Sure enough, it plained. “When you pick them, that’s tant to my whole family,” Busby said. a space-available basis. Deadlines are numerous other military awards, Thomas But for Susan Busby, serving God worked!” it. They’re like cluster of grapes, and “I’ve heard my brother say that if God the 10th of each month for the following spent 39 years as a United Methodist pas- involves a white plastic bucket, her Busby retired about six years ago, out of the cluster you have to individu- gives you something, there’s a reason, month’s paper. tor in South Carolina. He served under fingertips and up to six hours a day and picking blueberries has become ally pick one blueberry to see if it’ll be and He expects you to give it away.” Advertising five bishops and eight district superin- harvesting the blueberry patches on her somewhat of a relaxing hobby – a time released, and if does not release, then She likens the family blueberries to Display ads, classifieds and inserts can tendents in five different districts. He has family farm. when she can enjoy the sunshine, com- it’s too early.” the parable of talents in Matthew 25. be ordered by contacting us at 888- 678-6272 or 803-786-9486, ext. 338, or made it his life’s work to help others, Busby, a member of Platt Springs mune with God and pray. Birds and deer like to eat the berries, “The blueberries are just our tal- [email protected]. Deadlines are whether through preaching the word of United Methodist Church, Columbia, “While I’m out there picking, I’m and this year, rain was an issue. There ents, and look how many people and the 10th of each month for the following God or through being God’s hands and sells the entire crop of blueberries on able to pray and listen to God, and was so much rain the berries were how many lives can be touched just month’s paper. feet. her property and gives all the money to listen to the birds and the creatures swelling and bursting, she said: “I prob- by figuring out God really gave you Subscriptions He is still passionately active for missions at her church. In years past, that He’s put around, and trust me, I’m ably threw away at least half the crop.” that,” Busby said. “And if He gives you The Advocate is delivered to mailboxes Christ in his so-called retirement – and the funds have supported a church constantly praying when I’m in there, But Busby doesn’t worry about that something, He really means for you to via U.S. mail every month prior to the first Sunday of the month. Subscrip- all of this is after having open-heart sur- mission team that made an annual trip especially this summer,” she said. too much. She just does what feels do something with it.” tions are $15/year for the print and gery back in 2000. to Colombia. This year, the funds are “Snakes live out there, mosquitoes, and online version, and $8/year for the “I love to be involved, and I’m heav- helping Native American ministries at He’s protected me from all creatures.” online-only edition. Church plans are available for as low as $1/member ily into the Bible from the standpoint of Platt Springs. This summer, she has picked mostly (online version) or $10/member (print reaching out to others,” Thomas said. “I’m the Native American represen- from her brother and sister-in-law’s version with 10+ subscribers per “If someone says something to me about tative for our church and we don’t have patches; she pruned her own patches a church). To start your subscription, visit www.advocatesc. org, call with credit a person in need, I don’t care who it is, a budget, so I am very excited to see the little too heavily last year. card to 888-678-6272 or 803-786-9486, what race or where they come from. I try plans and directions that God has wait- “The whole family is involved; it’s ext. 335, or send a check to Advocate, 4908 Colonial Drive, Columbia, SC to make an effort to help them.” ing for us to discover,” Busby said. truly a family endeavor,” she said. Vietnam photo courtesy of the Lee County Veterans Museum 29203. Out of that spirit of helpfulness was Twenty years ago, Busby’s mother Prime blueberry season runs from Thomas has a Purple Heart from service in the Vietnam War, two Bronze Stars and numerous born Good Samaritans for All People, a planted a few blueberry patches on other military awards. At right, Good Samaritans for All People is an all-volunteer min- the latter part of May, through June and Photographs ministry he started in 1995 with his wife her land and her brother’s land. They into July. During picking season, Busby Photographs can be submitted to the istry.Here, Thomas (front right) stands with other volunteers preparing for one of the newspaper for publication. High- and life partner, Corine. ministry’s giveaway events. watered and pruned them, but certainly is out there usually six hours a day or resolution digital images are preferred. Good Samaritans for All People didn’t think about selling them to ben- every other day – two or three hours in Photographs should be in focus and should have proper exposure. Color or provides help for people at Christmas- Samaritans volunteer, said Thomas is Thomas was busy. He worked two jobs efit the church. the morning when it’s cool, and again black and white photographs are ac- time, as well as about eight other times an inspiration; the huge amount of work and attended high school – first school, Then one day Busby learned a family at sunset. The work is time-consuming cepted. People in photographs should throughout the year, including a huge Thomas does for others is truly not for then at a body shop from 2-6 p.m., then as in the church was selling watermelons and arduous; the berries cannot be be identified with names and ages, and a contact person with a phone number school supplies giveaway. everybody. a hospital orderly from 7 p.m. to mid- on the side of the road, with all the picked until they are perfectly ripe, and should be included in the information. The ministry is all volunteer, and only “The Lord got him directed to do this, night. Then it was home to study and get proceeds benefitting the church Salke- they must be picked individually, never 2 percent of funds are used for admin- and it always comes out right because of up to do it all again the next day. Accuracy Policy The Advocate strives to produce error- istrative purposes, such as postage. The who he is and where God is in his life,” “Stay active,” Thomas urged his peers free news reports. When mistakes ministry has three warehouses, the largest Williams said. considering retirement. occur, it is our policy to correct them at the football field for the old Bishop- Thomas said how he lives for the Lord He said it doesn’t matter how old as soon as they are brought to our Be a stronger attention. To request a correction, call ville high school, where they store furni- in retirement is an extension of how someone is; he or she can always do good Jessica Connor at 888-678-6272 or ture, clothing, food and other items do- he lived his life. Even in high school, work for the Lord. 803-786-9486, ext. 338, or email jcon- nated by people and churches throughout United Methodist. [email protected]. In the event of errors in advertisements, the Advocate will be South Carolina. The day the Advocate responsible only for the space occu- Subscribe to visited, Thomas and other interdenomi- Scan this pied by the actual error. The publisher Donations needed for next QR code assumes no financial responsibility for national volunteers were gearing up for with your omissions. a summer giveaway, bagging food and Good Samaritans giveaway the Advocate. smartphone! sorting items before they enjoyed a huge New and gently used toys, plus clothing, food and other items, are being col- Name: Back Issues watermelon Thomas grew in his garden. lected for the next Good Samaritans for All People Giveaway. The Advocate maintains copies of back issues for sale for up to one year, as “He’s the passion of the group, reaches The giveaway is set for Saturday, Dec. 21, from 8 a.m. to noon at Lee Central Mailing Address: long as the supply lasts. When request- out to all the vendors, keeps us focused,” High School Gymnasium, Bishopville. A second giveaway for those who miss the ing by mail, back copies are $2 each, said the Rev. Raymond Cook Jr., who Saturday event will be Dec. 23. City State ZIP to cover postage and handling. To The items are given out free to people in need. research or review articles published serves as vice president of Good Samari- E-mail address: To donate items, call the Rev. Eddie Thomas at 803-459-4989 or 803-428- Church Name: more than one year ago, bound copies tans for All People as well as pastor of of the newspaper are available for 4448, or the Rev. Raymond Cook Jr. at 803-469-6294. Pastor: District: review at the Advocate office, Wofford Kelly Bell and Sandy Bluff UMCs. “He’s This is a: College in Spartanburg and the South retired from pastoring, but he’s really Please make checks payable to: The Advocate Caroliniana Library in Columbia. transitioned to working with and for the New Subscription ($15) One-Year Renewal ($13) and return to: 4908 Colonial Dr., Suite 207, people of this area. It’s his calling, and Want to help Good Samaritans? Two-Year Subscription ($24) Columbia, SC 29203-6070 he’s tireless.” Call Rev. Eddie Thomas at 803-459-4989 or 803-428-4448, or Rev. Raymond George Williams, another Good Cook Jr. at 803-469-6294, or write 18 Boone Lane, Bishopville, SC 29010. Subscribe online: www.advocatesc.org • $15/year print and online; $8/year online only Page 4, September 2013 Advocate Advocate VIEWPOINTS Page 5, September 2013 Viewpoints Editorial Bishop’s Corner by Jessica Connor by Bishop Jonathan Holston Bold works for Christ How do you spell relief ? am consistently heartened when I learn about – and get the opportunity to “The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell cern. Eugene Patterson in “The Mes- write about – people who are doing novel and extraordinary things for the you, whatever you did for the least of sage” says it this way: “Then the King Kingdom. these brothers and sisters of mine, you will say, ‘I’m telling the solemn truth: A lot of times, they don’t think they’re doing so much. “I’m just knit- did for me.’” – Matthew 25:40 (NIV) Whenever you did one of these things Iting,” a woman will tell me, her head tucked shyly; yet to the homeless veteran to someone overlooked or ignored, that who wears the soft gloves that her hands lovingly crafted, her skill means the very weekday morning, it was me –you did it to me.’” difference between a cruel night and comfort. was the local radio station In reality, Jesus offers us an op- Asbury Hills’ free fall Take a look at this month’s Advocate, and you’ll find a wealth of examples. blaring from my parent’s portunity to refocus our attention in a A man called to grow the Kingdom by starting a motorcycle ministry. A woman room. more excellent way. The question is festival set for Oct. 26 who spends hours in the hottest months of the year picking blueberries, then EThe disc jockey, H. Randolph simple; namely, how can we practice a donating every penny to ministry. Mission workers who risk their lives in a gang- Holder, would recite his signature clos- faith that speaks to the least and lost in Hayrides, rock climbing, canoeing, more ridden South American city to build some people a church. ing, “Smile until 10 o’clock, and the our community? How can we be agents These folks are doing great works for the Lord. They’re using the gifts He rest of the day will take care of itself.” of relief in times of need? S.C. Camps and Retreat Minis- biscuits. gave them, whether talent with a needle and thread or the sharp-eyed skill of a Then it was Barbara Streisand singing First, we can make a difference tries is gearing up for the Asbury Free family activities include hay- carpenter, to do things: make prayer shawls for cancer patients, sew pillowcase a line from one of her hits, “The Way in the lives of children caught in the Hills Fall Festival, set for Saturday, rides, a rock climbing wall, the Giant dresses for kids in Haiti, build wheelchair ramps for disabled elderly, write letters We Were,” “Can it be that it was all so dangerous web of poverty. On Sun- Oct. 26, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Swing, the Alpine Tower, archery, to legislators, feed the hungry, clothe the poor. simple then?” day, Oct. 13, we are asking the con- A barbecue lunch will be avail- canoeing and more. God has given us gifts, and sometimes, we cannot even recognize them. Truly, it was so simple. When you gregations across South Carolina to able for purchase, and homemade For more information, call Asbury I pray each of us will open our hearts and be inspired by some of the stories in think about it, we all hoped for a life celebrate the Children’s Sabbath. The apple butter will be served on hot Hills at 864-458-2071. this month’s edition. Then, so inspired, take a good look at some of our blessings much simpler. Conference Task Force for the Cam- and think about whether we can use them in a way that can not only provide for Do you remember the games of paign for Children in Poverty will give our families or create a fun diversion in our spare time, but to help strengthen and your youth? In my community, we direction to this effort. As we identify Letters to the Editor increase God’s Kingdom. played games such as hide and seek, and address the issues of poverty in our hopscotch, one-two-three red light, to communities, we are shaping the lives Guest commentators make to the back door or seeing the hanging Is a majestic mystery Taylor did not have enough money name a few. I’m sure you have some of children and their future. Please Advocate better grounds used mostly for blacks. In the That I’ll never understand! for program expenses or my salary, but interesting ones in your memory. contact Martha Thompson or Kathy Letters Policy Thanks for using guest commentators 1960s when I saw on TV the police Charlotte Partin, member Sundays in August, he asked churches When we reflect, the hope is for a James for more information. It is my We welcome letters to the editor. We urge brevity, as succinct writing to turn the Advocate into a fine source dogs attacking black children. In the St. John UMC, Sumter to come to Providence Church for eve- life that is simpler, not complex; a life hope that you will join this significant often produces clarity. Letters should be no more than 300 words. All of inspiration as well as information. 1970s after Martin Luther King Jr. was ning worship. The offerings were more filled with rolling hills, not twists and observance. History on Camp Providence letters are subject to editing as needed to meet standards of grammar, An outstanding case in point was assassinated. In the 1980s working than adequate for initial expenses. turns. In fact, we are all at our best Also, can you join me as we travel Thanks for the article on Camp space and interest. We will not publish anonymous letters, letters prais- provided in the side-by-side commen- on poverty houses and realizing some The following year Archie Morgan, when tasks are simply explained, goals to Zimbabwe to visit Africa Univer- Providence (August), a ministry that ing or criticizing businesses by name, endorsements of or letters from taries of Jim Hunter and Phil Thrailkill elderly black people in S.C. have no member of Latimer Memorial UMC, are simply identified and the right peo- sity? The trip is scheduled for Jan. has provided special opportunities for political candidates, fundraising appeals, or letters containing inappro- in your August edition. Jim’s com- running water or plumbing. When I Belton, came to Taylor’s office to say ple are simply chosen. There is a desire 13-20, 2014. This is an excellent way many of the most needful children and priate language or personal attacks. All letters will be verified, so you mentary offered us readers a valuable started my ministry in the 1970s having God was calling him to become more for that which is simple and profound; for our conference to strengthen its ties youth in Anderson. To add a note of must include a name, daytime phone number, church membership and inside look, from the perspectives of mentors as Dr. Eben Taylor and Dr. involved in youth ministry. Archie and a hunger for that which is relaxing but with this international ministry. We historical accuracy, Dr. Eben Taylor, hometown. Letters should be sent to The Advocate, 4908 Colonial Drive, the couple themselves, their parishio- McKay Brabham teaching justice and his wife, Betty, were youth counsel- determined, as well as a thirst for that will meet with faculty and students to then-Anderson District superintendent, Columbia, SC 29203, faxed to 803-735-8168 or e-mailed to advocate@ ners and those who make and supervise fighting racism. ors and also helped troubled youth in which is restful and significant. address the issues of children and pov- started Camp Providence. Taylor had umcsc.org. Deadlines are the 10th of each month. their appointments, into the possibili- Here we are in 2013 still having the area. On a “leap of faith,” Archie Dennis Kimbro, in the book “Daily erty in Zimbabwe, as well. For more a passion for using resources to be in ties and problems facing clergy couples white guilt. I believe in black guilt, quit his job and began with Betty what Motivations for Success,” shares some information, please contact my office ministry with children and youth. In in general and appointment-sharing too. I know blacks that hurt because of would become “Crisis Ministries,” simple thoughts: at 803-786-9486 and speak with Bet- 1970 or 1971, Taylor called me while couples in particular. Phil’s comments blacks killing blacks, fatherless chil- touching the lives of thousands of The six most important words are “I tye Rivers. Truly, this is discovering a I was a student at Wesley Theologi- artfully combine crucial biblical teach- dren, gangs and many young blacks in troubled youth. Since I could not return admit I made a mistake.” more excellent way. cal Seminary and shared his vision for ings regarding marriage with pertinent prison. to Camp Providence the next summer, The five most important words are As you receive this issue of the using Providence Church and sur- wisdom garnered from long experience Has God spoken to cause guilt? We Taylor asked Archie to be director, a po- “What is your opinion.” Advocate, I will be in the midst of re- rounding land as a camp for inner-city as a husband and pastor. have all sinned and fallen short of the sition he held until he “retired” in 2008. The three most important words are habbing from surgery. I am indebted to children. He knew I shared his passion 4908 Colonial Drive, Suite 207, Columbia, SC 29203 As your other guest commentaries glory of God. I retired as a local pastor in 2008, 888-678-6272 or 803-786-9486 “If you please.” the prayers and assistance of so many for missional ministry and offered me also illustrate, our Annual Conference The time has come to love our returned to Anderson and was asked [email protected] | www.advocatesc.org The two most important words are across the S.C. Annual Conference. the job as first director of what he called is a treasure trove of talented, wise and neighbor, be the peacemakers and cause to serve on Camp Providence’s board. “Thank you.” I extend to you a heartfelt thank “Camp Providence.” I hired my cousin, Publisher caring people, lay as well as clerical. the moral conscience of our society to I was overjoyed when we found out The S.C. United Methodist Advocate Trustees The most important word is “We.” you! struggle. Jesus said, “Follow me.” Tim Goodson, as lifeguard, and he and about another special human being, The Rev. Steven King, chairperson; the Rev. Angela Nelson, vice chairperson; Your decision to tap this great pool of Friends, every day we wake up in In the days and weeks ahead, my I spent a week building a dock, lining the Rev. Carleathea Benson, secretary; Carmen Faulkner, treasurer; talent promises to transform the Advo- I John 1:8, “If we claim to be without Sharon Irby, who became our director. Dyron V. Anderson; the Rev. Audrey Boozer; the Rev. Jerry Gadsden; the middle of something already going hope is to come back with a tremen- out the swimming area and recruiting cate from a scrapbook of momentary sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth Sharon has demonstrated repeatedly Rhonda Jones; Gladys Lemon; the Rev. Evelyn Middleton; Skyler Nimmons; on. We live in the tension between dous resolve to seek a more excellent is not in us.” volunteers. That summer we served 150 this unique ministry has very capable Dr. Ralph Ostrom; Dr. Phillip Stone; Diane Wilson; and the Rev. William Wrighten news stories into an X-ray of the in- what is and what will be. Jesus offers way – with a little less pain. children. St. John’s UMC let us use an nards, the action-inspiring soul, of the Rev. John W. Culp, pastor leadership and will, no doubt, continue Editors emeritus us comfort only by taking up his con- Now that will be a relief. old bus to transport children. Many dis- United Methodist branch of Christen- Virginia Wingard UMC, Columbia long into the future. Maryneal Jones, Willie S. Teague, Allison Askins, Karl F. Davie Burgdorf, Emily L. Cooper trict churches gave food for campers. dom in South Carolina. Dr. Michael Vandiver, retired, Anderson Staff A Poem: Wonders on Display Editor: Jessica Connor, [email protected] Corrections Charles D. Barrett Assistant Editor: Allison K. Trussell, [email protected] Professor emeritus of religion I cannot see a waterfall Editorial Interns: Caitlin Russell, Carrie Townsend In the article “Unity Hosts Successful ‘Celebration of Summer’ Party” (August Wofford College, Spartanburg With foamy white-blown spray Or hear a seagull’s lonesome call Our Mission Advocate), we mistakenly listed the city for Unity United Methodist Church. Unity To communicate the message of the United Methodist Church and to connect United Methodists by is in the Spartanburg District, but the city is actually Union. White guilt God’s wonders on display independently reporting news, engaging readers and providing a forum for dialogue. Also, in the changes to appointment (August Advocate), we inadvertently listed James 5:16, “Therefore confess your Pink velvet in a rabbit’s ear, sins to each other and pray for each The mountain’s face of stone Subscriptions the wrong district in two of the appointments. Karen Kluever should be in the The individual subscription rate is $15/year for the print and online version ($13 for renewals) and Rock Hill District and is serving as the minister of youth discipleship at Christ other so that you may be healed.” Speckles on a newborn deer $8/year for the online-only edition. To subscribe or for information about discounted church plan Someone accused me of having Will thrill me to the bone rates, call 888-678-6272, e-mail [email protected] or visit www.advocatesc.org. UMC, Louisville, Ky. Sean Kilpatrick, quarter-time at Chapel Hill UMC, Rome- Carrollton District, North Georgia Conference, should have been listed in the white guilt. Thank God I still have a The bonnets on the daffodils The S.C. United Methodist Advocate (ISSN 1078-8166) continues the Southern Christian Advocate, authorized by the General conscience. And pansies’ sunny smile Conference of 1836. Publication began Annual Conference-July 24, 1837. The paper is published monthly by the S.C. United Charleston District. Methodist Advocate Trustees. We cannot be responsible for unsolicited manuscripts.Please direct all inquiries regarding commentary When did this white guilt first ap- The ‘daisy dresses’ on the hills submissions to the editor, 4908 Colonial Drive, Suite 207, Columbia, SC 29203-6070. 803-786-9486/ FAX 803-735-8168. Periodicals We apologize for these errors and strive to set the record straight. postage paid at Columbia, S.C. pear? In the 1950s when I was a child Bewitch me and beguile Postmaster: Send address changes to: S.C. United Methodist Advocate, 4908 Colonial Drive, Suite 207, Columbia, SC 29203. Share your voice – write a letter to the editor! [email protected] seeing signs that said “White Only,” How God has sculpted all of these September 2013 • Volume 177 • No. 9 watching black people always come With His skillful holy hand Page 6, September 2013 Features Advocate Advocate Features Page 7, September 2013 The Echo Life Sacred ground UM pastor, others start health-spirituality blog to encourage wholeness Memorial Prayer Garden offers place of beauty, holiness at Trinity UMC By Jessica Connor one might ask, ‘How can a ministry based on a Chris- By Minnie Miller tian view of physical health and fitness do this?’ To Reprinted courtesy Orangeburg Times and Democrat How can we actually take care of these bodies this I would say that health and fitness are only our that we say are a gift from God, and gain a deeper platform, and what our generation needs to see is a BAMBURG – The seed was planted by a member of understanding of the holistic link between health and holistic faith that not only claims power, but lives out the congregation who asked if the church could pro- spirituality? of grace so as to demonstrate that power.” vide a burial site for those who chose cremation. That is the premise behind The Echo Life blog Miller said that, bottom line, The Echo Life is Trinity United Methodist Church in Bamberg dedi- started by a trio of Christian friends – one a South about sanctification, about being stewards of the good cated its Memorial Prayer Garden May 26. Surround- Carolina United Methodist pastor. things God has given us, including our bodies, for His ed by a gathering of young and old church members, The Rev. Richard Reams, who pastors St. Luke sake. All of this leads naturally to better witness. the Revs. Robert and Carol Cannon presented the gar- United Methodist Church, Walhalla, started The Echo “We hope that the end result would be a people den as a resting place for those who have passed on. Life with two friends who went to Asbury Theological living lives that interest others, and when the other “The Memorial Prayer Garden is sacred ground. Seminary with him: Shane DeHaven, who is finish- asks, ‘Why are you the way you are?’ the answer will It is designed to provide a place for the ‘cremains’ of ing his doctorate in chiropractic and is ordained in the be, ‘Because Christ has given me the grace to steward church members in a place of beauty and holiness,” Wesleyan denomination, and Tab Miller, who works The Rev. Richard Reams (left), who pastors St. Luke UMC, what He has given me,’” Miller said. “In other words, the Rev. Robert Cannon said. “It exists as a proc- for Tab Smith Ministries, a nonprofit geared toward Walhalla, started The Echo Life with two friends who went we hope The Echo Life, while having necessary posi- to Asbury Theological Seminary with him: Shane DeHaven lamation of our faith in God and Jesus Christ, and providing theological education to those who would (center) and Tab Miller. Here, the trio share a smile at their tive impacts for the self, is still all about ‘the other.’ a witness to our belief in the power and promise of otherwise go without. seminary graduation. We take the best care of what God has given us in resurrection.” The friends met at Asbury and quickly formed a order to be our best for others.” As the number of cremations rises, more and more As the number of cremations rises, more and more churches – like this one, at Trinity UMC, Bamburg – are considering the bond centered on health and spirituality. DeHaven and the new normal,” DeHaven said. “Tab, Richard and I Reams said that concept, of being better for others churches are considering the installation of columbar- installation of columbaria, or memorial gardens. Reams were running partners, and all were passionate believe that this way of unhealthy living is neither the when we are better physically, is a huge element of ia, or memorial gardens. According to the Cremation The list of plants used in the landscaping of the has been recognized as a Christian form of burial for about being good stewards of the many gifts God has correct way to live, nor is it God-honoring.” the blog. Association of North America, the estimated number memorial garden included Abelia x grandiflora many years. It is the process of reducing the human given his children – including our bodies. After all, DeHaven said, the church is great at talk- “It’s not about the vanity, being able to do this or of cremations in 2010 was nearly a million, up from “Kaleidoscope,” Wintergreen boxwoods, Little Gem body to its basic elements. After seminary, they decided to expand their dia- ing and teaching about purity and health of the heart, lift this, but my wife will tell you I’m a better person 606,307 in 1999. magnolia, Stella de Oro daylily, Dwarf Burfordi holly The Memorial Prayer Garden is open to all church logue to a broader platform so others could join the mind and soul, “But we never really talk about the and a better pastor when I am engaging my physical The Rev. Carol Cannon had studied the feasibility and Sasanqua camellia. On Sunday, the daylilies were members, former members and their families. Minis- conversation and find a place of support and account- vehicle that these elements travel in,” he said. “We health. She’ll say, ‘I can tell you haven’t run this week of a memorial garden while visiting her home church just beginning to bloom, and the Little Gem magnolia ters, former ministers and their families are also wel- ability for exercise, healthy eating, positive lifestyles tend to forget that as Christians we are more than just because you’re just mean. You’re off,’” Reams said in Columbia, Mo., which provides a cremation burial was in full flower, its perfuming fragrance wafting come. The pastor and church board may also consider and more. souls waiting to be set free from the prison of the hu- DeHaven often lifts up Luke 10:27 as an example option for church members. After consulting com- throughout the garden. special friends of the congregation. “The blog is the holistic understanding of health, man flesh. Each of us are whole-beings on a journey of encouraging healthy holistic living. In that Scrip- mittee members at Trinity UMC, the idea was readily As part of the garden, an attractive wrought-iron Landscaping and upkeep of the Memorial Prayer faith and spirituality,” Reams explained. “We’re not to redemption.” ture, Jesus commanded people to love the Lord with accepted, and plans took off. Church members Irene bench made by local artisan Mike Black provides a Garden is an ongoing responsibility of the trustees of saying you have to do CrossFit and eat this way and Miller said The Echo Life exists as a very basic all our heart, soul, strength and mind, and DeHaven Jowers and Ginger McCully were involved in the comfortable place to sit. Trinity UMC. Management of the Memorial Prayer run this many miles or have this certain BMI index. answer to a Christian problem, namely an American thinks those four areas are mentioned intentionally. landscaping aspect of the garden, which now fills a A plaque has been attached to the outside wall of Garden may be assigned to a Memorial Prayer Garden We’re just truly trying to echo what it means to be a church problem: Many Christians are not taking care “I don’t think Luke meant this command to say that nook between the church and the fellowship hall. the church building in the garden for placement of the Committee. temple of God in more ways than just our speech.” of themselves physically, and this puts their testimony we should subdivide our lives into these four catego- “Adam’s Nursery and Landscaping of Barnwell names of those whose ashes are buried there. A grid The careful thought in choosing plant material, im- As a chiropractor who also was on a church staff, at a deficit. Yet it all goes deeper than this, he said. ries,” DeHaven said. “When he wrote these words of helped us with the plan and choice of plants,” Jowers will be kept on file noting the location of each place- proving area drainage and installing a fully functional DeHaven used to notice many pastors out of breath “In a way, I see The Echo Life as a particular Jesus it was to communicate the Jewish idea of the said. “We went with his recommendations of low- ment of ashes, which will be contained in a linen bag irrigation system will assure the garden will be easier and sweating after climbing just two flights of stairs. answer to the angst of this generation, a postmodern whole-being – every area of the life. This concept growing plants that would easily stay in bounds and and buried in the ground. to maintain. It will be a place of beauty, as well as a Originally, he hoped the blog ministry would serve generation that has a general distrust in and dislike for is peppered through the biblical narrative – whole- be attractive.” According to a Trinity UMC brochure, cremation beautiful resting place. pastors who needed someone to talk with them about fakers,” Miller said. “Many of our peers are angry at ness. Again, we, as Christian leaders, are really good the need to care for the whole person, not just the soul a church that seems to offer no real difference to the at talking about the soul, the mind and the heart, but and mind. But the more he thought about it, the more way of the world around us. In a sense, we are offer- for some reason we gloss over the strength. he realized this was not a problem just for pastors but ing an alternative to the general disquiet and skepti- “These are the ideas that we try to flesh out in the an epidemic in American culture. cism of our peers, and yet, in another way, this is our blog.” Swansea reading camp helps prevent ‘summer slide’ “Unhealthy and overweight is quickly becoming way of saying, ‘Yes, we understand.’ At first glance, Visit The Echo Life at www.theecholife.com. By Caitlin Russell

Asbury Hills, Cornerstone partner to offer local camp SWANSEA – Summer camps abound By Caitlin Russell been nice to see the changes in the in churches across the state, but Swan- children and how they have bonded and sea United Methodist Church hopes to ROCK HILL – Summer camp is a rite want to do things together. The children combat reading loss with their summer of passage for many kids. Whether it’s make an effort to include everyone in reading camp. sleeping in a cabin or going for day activities.” Thd two-week camp, started this camp, the fun, friends and faith experi- Each day of the camp had a different summer, began when the Rev. Scott ences stand alone in childhood memo- Bible verse and theme, which were co- Smoak and the congregation prayed and ries of summer. ordinated with the day’s activities and discussed how their under-utilized fel- This June, Asbury Hills brought are incorporated into worship times. lowship building could be used for the summer camp to Cornerstone United “Watching these children grow in community. They, along with Lexington Methodist Church in Rock Hill. Jim their knowledge of our Redeemer has School District 4, partnered to use the Camp organizers said being exposed to Smith, a member at Cornerstone, con- been so rewarding,” counselor Teresea facility to hold a summer reading camp more books more often is one of the most tacted Asbury Hills about bringing the Carter said. “During their precious to meet the needs of children at risk for important ways that students can maintain summer reading loss. and even increase their reading levels over camp to Rock Hill. He had heard of a prayers, I’m constantly reminded of the summer. similar project in the past, and thought what Christ means when He asks us to “The community we are in as a it would be a great experience to have come to Him with faith like that of a church looks different than the commu- Students use iPads at the Swansea UMC Summer Reading Camp as an independent way invitation about the program. The again. Asbury Hills staff came and child.” nity of the church,” Smoak said. “We to learn reading skills. material within the letter was discussed looked at the Cornerstone facility and Children at the camp were not just are a small church with 50-70 attend- posure over the summer. The school and work on locating known words and with an attorney who is a member of decided not only was the camp pos- from Cornerstone, but the surrounding ees, but we had the facility, teachers and district has made efforts to promote chunks inside other words so that they Swansea UMC, and it was made clear sible, but it would be an exciting way to community, as well. They put up flyers educators, so why not use them to reach summer literacy, one of which is their can self-monitor while reading to help the camp was not being held as a school extend the camp ministry overall. in nearby neighborhoods, sent the infor- out to the community?” partnership in Swansea UMC’s camp. the story make sense,” Riley said. district activity. The letter was then sent The week of June 24-28 was sched- Photos by Maxine Smith mation out to other churches in the area In Lexington School District 4, stu- Five teachers participate in the sum- In addition to the expertise of the home with children selected by teachers uled to be a lighter week at Asbury From giant tents to s’mores over an open fire, counselors brought as much ofAsbury Hills and advertized in the newspaper. dents suffer an average loss of 8 percent mer reading program, one of whom teachers, Swansea UMC has been able and schools. Hills, so counselors were able to spend camp to Cornerstone UMC as possible. Asbury Hills Program Coordinator in their reading achievement over the specializes in reading loss recovery. At to use iPad minis as educational supple- This year, the camp had 11 students. a week at the offsite location. Four Sarah Moseley said after camp ended, summer: the equivalent of two read- the beginning of the program, students ments through grants and a school They hope to help even more students counselors and one staff member came camp. camp, as well as brought their ability to they received letters from the children ing levels. The increase in poverty to are screened to see what aspects of district partnership with PBS. next summer. to Rock Hill, where they were housed Although they didn’t have all of the lead worship with music and prayer. thanking them for the week. 85.95 percent within the school district reading they need to work on. Debbie In order to encourage students to Smoak, along with the rest of by the Winthrop University Wesley onsite resources of Asbury Hills, the One of the main goals of the camp “We’re able to touch lives in the has exacerbated what camp organizers Riley, one of the teachers, explained participate in the program, Swansea Swansea UMC, sees this program as a Fellowship. Church volunteers provided counselors and staff brought crafts, was to get kids involved and learning same way as Asbury, but offsite,” call the “summer slide,” with students that many kids don’t know how to write UMC worked with the school district fulfillment of the church’s responsibility their meals, and the counselors and staff teambuilding games, campout materials with each other, organizers said. Moseley said. “We’re able to spread in poverty missing out on hundreds of high-frequency sight words. superintendent and assistant district to take care of those in need and hopes provided a memorable week of local and even some water activities to the Counselor Ashley Adams said, “It’s God’s love.” thousands of words and reading ex- “We practice writing those words, superintendent to develop a letter of it will continue for years to come. Page 8, September 2013 Features Advocate Advocate Features Page 9, September 2013 S.C. UMMen attend 11th National Gathering By Herman B. Lightsey Jr. be the change, the difference we have been seeking. So it was good for us to About 30 S.C. UMMen attended be here at the 11th National Gather- the 11th National Gathering of United ing of United Methodist Men, but we Methodist Men, held July 12-14 at Bel- could not stay on the mountain, for we mont University, Nashville, Tenn. received what we needed. Now we are The theme was “Inside Out for the called to return to the valley to pray, Glory of God.” This event is held every fast and mobilize for ministry. It’s time four years in the year after The United to say yes in our homes, churches and Methodist Church’s General Confer- communities. I ask that you join me ence meets. with ‘yes’ to the will of God.” Like the church, UMMen are expe- Yebuah cited powerful preaching, riencing a decline in men willing to be- soul-inspiring music and workshops

Photos by Caitlin Russell come involved in the local church and that provided useful and helpful tools Margaret (left), a graduate of the EEIC, To start each day, children and teachers gather in a circle to sing with lively Children engage in activities with other connectional ministries of men, for Christian growth and maturity as has worked at the center for 15 years. gestures and to greet each other. special developmental goals. like the national gathering, spiritual integral to a successful and uplifting retreats and other ministries. gathering. But seeing those who attended the “In all it was a beautiful, fruitful and Epworth Early Intervention Center provides gathering gave me a renewed hope that meaningful weekend,” Yebuah said. UMMen in South Carolina can change “Above all, we were all honored, hum- this trend. If we can disciple men bled and inspired by the presence of developmentally enriching preschool for 30+ years back to the church to be the men God Bishop Holston as a registered delegate. By Caitlin Russell approach. children graduated from the EEIC in Former students have come back intended us to be, then the church and Attendees had many service opportunities, like this potato drop. But the sad note was that the numbers The goal is to look like any other July and will go to special-needs classes to do Eagle Scout projects and school its mission to make disciples for Jesus were disappointing. In my opinion, we COLUMBIA – The atmosphere of the preschool, with the only noticeable dif- in public schools. service projects at the center, and one Christ for the transformation of the underestimate our importance. We mis- Epworth Early Intervention Center is ference being the 1:3 ratio of teachers to “Schools say that they know the graduate is now an employee there, world will become a reality. takenly devalue the power of our pres- bright and cheery, with colorful deco- students. Regularly developing children (EEIC) kids because they adjust bet- demonstrating to parents every day how Bishop Jonathan Holston had chal- ence and our contribution. This mindset rations on the walls and the sound of are enrolled along with children with ter,” Richardson said. “It also makes successful their kids can be. lenged S.C. men to have “God-sized vi- has to change before things can become children singing as they begin their day. special needs, creating a non-categori- a big difference for the families. They When the center held its 20-year sions.” Having 100 men at the national better, and this change is not optional, With favorites like “Old McDonald cal classroom where all different levels feel safe and secure so the transition is reunion, a large number of graduates gathering was one of his challenges. because if and when we are not chang- had a Farm,” children participate in are in the same room. All children are easier.” and families returned, each appreciating He did not say “you go,” but “let’s go” ing, we are not growing, and if we are morning circle time with lively hand engaged in the same activities, but with The EEIC was originally begun the significant role the EEIC had played – and he went himself as a registered not growing, we are slowly dying. gestures and by calling out their favor- developmentally appropriate goals. through Epworth as a separate ministry, in their lives. participant! And participate he did. “I therefore challenge every man to ite animals. It’s a preschool that looks “Students can learn from each other but Epworth was unable to support it Even 20 years later, they remem- He shed his suit and tie, sat with the see his ultimate and supreme value, and like any other, but it has a very special and make friends,” said EEIC direc- financially during the recession. The bered their preschool, and their pre- group, clapped and sang to the music to help other men discern the impor- cause. tor Kay Richardson. “The opportunity EEIC survived on independent fund- school remembered them. The door and stood and offered an “amen” to the tance of their presence and contribu- The Epworth Early Intervention Cen- to make friends is very important to ing and has now been partially picked to Richardson’s office is covered with messages of the presenter when he felt tions.” ter was begun in 1980 when parents of parents and they want children to grow up by Epworth once again. Parents of pictures of her current and former moved. First-time attendee Steven Lathrop children with disabilities contacted Ep- up learning to accept others with differ- children pay tuition, but it is intended students. There are Christmas cards, There were only two bishops in at- said he had an exciting religious experi- worth Children’s Home with the need ences.” not to be prohibitive and so does not high school senior portraits and fam- tendance – Holston along with Bishop ence at the national gathering. for a preschool center that would allow Richardson cites examples of chil- begin to cover the total cost of running ily photos showing the successful lives James Swanson, of the Mississippi An- “The speakers were all outstanding; their children to have an experience dren currently enrolled in the preschool, the center. that the Early Intervention Center has nual Conference, who is the president S.C. UMM President Herman Lightsey S.C. Bishop Jonathan Holston was one of it seemed that each of the speakers ad- just as enriching as those offered at explaining how they wouldn’t describe “I think it’s important to know the helped them to lead. of the General Commission of UMMen. talks to the group. only two bishops at the gathering. dressed the specific needs of the United other preschools. At the time, the S.C. one another by saying that someone fact that we’ve been around for 33 The Epworth Early Intervention Cen- The laity and clergy of South Carolina Methodist Men in reaching the younger Department of Disabilities and Special was in a wheelchair. years says that we’re meeting a need in ter strives to give children with disabili- are thankful for our bishop’s support but in our method of doing it. Neither especially in the Saturday morning ses- generations,” Lathrop said. “Not only Needs operated some similar centers, The center allows them to look at the community,” Richardson said. “We ties a chance at going to a preschool and participation in discipling men for Jesus nor Paul ever changed the mes- sion with Don Davis, as he told us that did I get great ideas for our men’s but many parents felt the need for a each other in a different light, one that don’t serve the masses, but we provide tailored to their needs. Christ. sage or their values, but both adapted we have to minister to 80 million mil- ministry, but also it was exciting to see private program. The EEIC examined sees past disabilities. a needed service. Luckily, the powers “It makes your day when you see In addition to the bishop, we had their techniques to their audience. Since lennials! The opportunities for service the commitment to men’s ministry of the state programs and, seeking to learn Children ages 1-5 can attend the cen- that be don’t look just at statistics and these kids come in with big smiles,” several pastors attend: the Rev. James 1993, 49 percent of men younger than through the potato drop, meal packing the two bishops in attendance. I was from some of their mistakes, developed ter, depending on space available and things, but at the difference it makes in Richardson said. “It tells parents, ‘this Friday, Greenwood District superin- age 30 have left the church. At this rate, and PET projects were a great experi- most impressed with Bishop Holston’s a model based around a parent-team the age of the group at the time. Five the lives of the kids and families.” is where my child needs to be.’” tendent and Cabinet representative of there will be no more men by 2028. ence. All in all, it was a good three days commitment and his challenge to us in the S.C. UMMen; the Rev. Frederick The number of first-time attendees at well spent. I am grateful for our bishop South Carolina. It was all a very mov- Yebuah, Orangeburg District super- the national gathering was impressive. and the district superintendents from ing and exciting experience, one I will Small Wesley Memorial UMC has big heart for community intendent; the Rev. David Anderson, A first-time attendee, Friday said he S.C. that attended.” never forget, and you can be sure I will conference benefits officer and pastor came to the gathering with more curios- Alvin B. Glen, UMMen Walterboro be in attendance at the next national By Caitlin Russell month during the school year and once a week in the 14 area churches, provides housing for families that of Greene Street UMC; and the Rev. ity than critique, and he was particu- District president, was also a first-time gathering.” summer. For just $10 per child or $15 per family for might be broken up if they had to go to shelters. Each Stephen Love, pastor of the St. Thomas larly curious about the event’s theme, attendee, but he hopes it will not be his Forrest Horn, president of Rehoboth COLUMBIA – Wesley Memorial United Methodist four hours of childcare, parents can have a night out church hosts a family once per quarter, allowing these Charge. This was a real boost to the la- “Inside Out for the Glory of God,” and last. UMMen, said having the chance to at- Church sees it as their mission to seek out the commu- while the money goes to pay for pizza and activities families time to get back on their feet. ity of the S.C. UMMen. how it would be presented through the “There is much ministry to be done, tend the gathering was a true blessing. nity’s needs and fill those needs in any way possible. for the children. That notion, of getting people back on their feet, is My hope and prayer is that these gathering. and I am excited and encouraged to “What a fantastic group of men rep- From Early Dismissal Days to a Mad-Hatter’s Tea, Another ministry for children at Wesley Memorial a goal embraced by the entire Wesley Memorial com- men, both laity and clergy, will come “What I experienced through the know that other dedicated men are resenting South Carolina,” Horn said. Wesley Memorial members never hesitate when it is their vacation Bible school. This August, VBS was munity. When asked, members shared stories of losing off of this “mountain-top experience” worship services and the presentations striving to meet the call of ministering “It was especially inspiring to see how comes to community outreach. on the road at Edisto Park, a low-income area about family members and going through rough times when and go back into their local churches of the workshops was mostly a focus on to men through the word of God,” Glen important the gathering was to Bishop One of their ministries, Early Dismissal Days, was a mile from the church. At Edisto Park, children are they found the family of Wesley Memorial. One mem- and set men’s hearts on fire for Jesus the interior or on the heart of men and said. “The goal of every local church’s Holston, as he stayed the whole week- begun when members identified a need in the local often dropped off on the playground with no supervi- ber summed up her experience with the statement, and ministry to men; that they will turn their relationship with God as they are men’s ministry group should be God- end. I’m sure, as a new bishop, he has middle schools. Richland School District 1 has an sion. Wesley Memorial planned to take a back-to- “We are a church that helps you get it back together.” men “Inside Out for the Glory of God.” being formed and developed as fol- focused and ministry-driven, both for many important projects going on; but I early dismissal day each month, but many parents school VBS to these children and feed them lunch, Another new Wesley Memorial ministry helps fos- If we do, then the God-sized vision and lowers of Jesus Christ,” Friday said. “I spiritual and physical needs of men. I deeply appreciated his presence.” can’t pick up their students during the day. Since as well as have crafts and Bible stories. Children will ter fitness in the congregation. On Sunday mornings, challenge of the bishop to have 500 believe the gathering was on point with intend to echo the message of ‘UMMen This is the second quadrennial con- middle school students are too old for daycare, volun- also be given a backpack of school supplies for the members are invited to walk and run before worship- men attend the S.C. UMMen’s Spiritual this focus on the heart of men and our Inside Out for the Glory of God’ to the ference to be held in Nashville. Earlier teers from Wesley Memorial UMC walk students from new school year. ping outside. A neighbor recently saw them and joined Retreat in 2014 will be a piece of cake. quest to reach more men for Christ.” churches in the Walterboro District.” gatherings were held at Purdue Uni- Hand Middle School back to the church for snacks, In addition to school supplies, Wesley Memorial the service, bringing her dog, Smokey Joe, along with Fifty men per district is 600, after all. Don Love, associate conference lay Quoting Isaiah 6:8, “send me,” the versity in West Lafayette, Ind. In 2009, games and homework help until their parents can also collects supplies for Sister Care each February at her. “We’ll take anybody,” the Rev. Jeri-Katherine To receive and enjoy the support leader, was also a first-time attendee. Rev. Stephen Love, pastor of the St. the site was shifted to Belmont Univer- come and pick them up. This program has been so ap- their Mad-Hatter’s Tea. This event, sponsored by the Sipes said, “even your dog.” and respect as a live, viable organiza- “I had no special expectations, but Thomas Charge, said, “I believe that the sity, site of the 2008 U.S. presidential preciated that Wesley Memorial has been named Hand women of the church, focuses on providing a voice This church doesn’t only participate in the min- tion, UMMen must adapt to the times. went with the attitude of seeing and be- response to which I am called to give is debate. While this is the 11th national Middle School’s Volunteer Partner of the Year for the for those suffering from injustice. Attendees write istries listed here. Members refer to “everyday min- We must rid ourselves from the rut we ing a part of what God was going to do ‘yes, Lord!’ Yes to making room in my conference since the conclusion of past two years. letters advocating a different issue each year. Past is- istries,” where they respond to whatever need may have dug and meet the young men of in this group of men,” Love said. “I met life and the life of our local churches World War II, earlier meetings of Meth- The expense of childcare provided another oppor- sues have included maternal health and awareness of arise. our communities (not necessarily our men who are committed to Christ from for men’s ministry, yes to serving at odist Men were held in Indianapolis tunity for service at Wesley Memorial in their Parents’ domestic violence. For Wesley Memorial, church isn’t just about what church!) where they are. across the United States. A common a different level than we ever have after World War I. Night Out program. Since good relationships between Most recently, Wesley Memorial has become the they can do within their own congregation. It’s about This will require change: change concern was the lack of younger men before, yes, yes, yes! Then believing parents are vital for children’s development, Wesley first church to respond to the Family Promise Hos- what their congregation can do for the community not in what we do (helping men grow active in our UMM organizations. This that my yes and the yes of men across Lightsey is president of the S.C. Con- Memorial holds a Parents’ Night Out Program once a pitality Network. This network, which will require around them. in Christ so others may know Christ), was addressed during the event and our conference will empower us to ference UMMen. Page 10, September 2013 Viewpoints Advocate Advocate Viewpoints Page 11, September 2013

Connectional Conversation Becoming More Vile Guest Commentary Children in Poverty by the Rev. Kathy James by the Rev. Jonathan Tompkins by the Rev. Kim Strong by Bishop Kenneth L. Carder (retired) Ministry to, for and with children Best of the ‘vile’ Why ask why? The poor you always have with you “Go, therefore and make disciples of church, there are children in my com- o it turns out a Methodist min- within the confines of stained glass and ne of the joys of having a driveways? Why do they package hot all nations, baptizing them in the name munity. There are families in need of ister moving to a new appoint- steeples, keeps her street cred for vile- children’s sermon is fielding dog wieners in groups of eight and the Editor’s note: As Carder is the quick to feed the hungry, heal the of the Father and the Son and the Holy nurture and support. There are schools ment involves a lot! ness intact. the unexpected questions buns in groups of ten? The last question primary author of the foundation sick, welcome those pushed to the Spirit” (Matthew 28:19). who need partners from the community. I apologize for my column’s “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hal- that kids will ask you in a on the list asked, “If a cow laughed, document of the Episcopal Initiative margins by debilitating personal, “Let the children come to me and do Opportunities abound for churches to Sabsence last month, and I’ll go ahead lows” by JK Rowling – themes of Ochurch full of people. would milk come out her nose?” on Children and Poverty, the S.C. economic, political and religious not hinder them, for to such belongs the be in ministry to and for children in and apologize for its “semi-absence” forgiveness, reconciliation, repentance, When the late Art Linkletter said, As we become older our questions Task Force on the Pan-Methodist dynamics. The lavish actions on the kingdom of God” (Luke 18:16). ways that demonstrate the love of Jesus this month – my “vile” creative juices liberation from oppression, non-violent “Kids say the darndest things,” he become more difficult and the answers Campaign for Children in Poverty part of the woman seemed such a Christ for all children. have dried this summer with all the resistance, sacrifice, death and resur- was right! Most of the questions more fleeting. Why, God, did you allow asked him to write a series of articles waste in the face of pressing eco- heard recently of an elementary How can a church be in ministry transition, so I’ve compiled a “best of” rection all come to a head in the final that stumped me over the years were this to happen? Why do good people on the biblical and theological foun- nomic needs. school nurse who cried when pre- with children when there are none pres- list from my past few years, just in case Harry Potter book. Great for a Bible philosophical ones. I never stood up to suffer and evil ones prosper? Why are dation for engagement in ministry But Jesus countered, “She has sented with the stacks of children’s ent on Sunday morning? To begin: you who have missed a column or two. study. conduct a children’s sermon and was some prayers answered so quickly and with children and the poor. This is performed a good service for me. For underwear that a church collected 1. Seek God’s will for your church’s I’ll be back at it with something new “Unbroken” by Laura Hillenbrand not nervous beyond reason. others seem to not be answered at all? next in a series. you always have the poor with you, Ion “Undie Sunday.” ministry for children. Pray for eyes to next month – thanks for your patience, – true story of Louie Zamperini, talent- My wife recently came home with Those are the questions that mat- hy all this talk about but you will not always have me. By Apparently there is a great need see where there is a need for God’s love faithful reader! ed runner and WWII prisoner of war. a list of questions titled “Why Ask ter the most as we get older. You can’t the poor?” a protes- pouring this ointment on my body for such things as children in pre-K to be embodied in your community. For the time being, check out these God unexpectedly pops up through- Why?” They are slanted towards those Google those questions and get a quick tor asked defiantly. she has prepared me for burial.” and kindergarten adjust to a full-day 2. Meet with the principal of the songs, books and movies that help out the pages, especially at the end as of us who are adults but often think like answer. The questions we really want “There is no point in Rather than offering justification program. In previous years, the nurse school nearest your church. Ask the reveal God’s truth beyond stained-glass Louie seeks out the sadistic POW camp a child. answered we are afraid to ask, because Whelping the poor! As the Bible says, for neglecting the poor, Jesus is iden- purchased the underwear from her own principal about the biggest challenges and steeples, if you haven’t already: guard who tortured him. For instance, why are there flotation we are fearful of the answer we may ‘The poor you always have with tifying with the poor and defenseless pocket. facing children and families in your “Life After God” by Douglas Cou- devices under airplane seats instead of receive. you.’” and affirming service to them. In an In this same church, children are community. Music albums pland – an interrelated series of stories parachutes? It always made me con- The great philosopher Forrest Gump It wasn’t the first time I had heard act of spontaneous and lavish love, eager to save their pennies to help fill 3. Take one small step toward sup- Mumford & Sons “Sigh No More” about the spiritual lives of Generation cerned when the flight attendant would once said, “Life is like a box of choco- the Bible used to justify neglect of the woman ministered to Jesus as he the backpacks that go home with their porting children and families. One and “Babel” – handclapping, foot- X, “the first generation raised without announce that you could use your seat lates; you never know what you are those who live in poverty. Nor was faced the ultimate vulnerability of friends at school who would be hungry definition of ministry is “where the stomping, banjo-laden rollicks perme- religion.” Coupland deals with the for a flotation device and I was flying going to get.” We may not know the the protestor’s obvious frustration death. This was a once-in-a-lifetime over the weekend without the assis- gifts of the people intersect with the ated by God-language throughout. question of what happens when humans over Kansas. Was the pilot’s sense of secrets of this world or even the right with poverty’s intractability new. opportunity to serve Jesus directly. tance. When the community agency needs of the world.” What need touches Cold War Kids “Mine is Yours” who have innate religious impulses direction that bad? questions to ask. We just unwrap each Complex personal, social, economic Jesus reminded the disciples they withdrew funding for the backpack the hearts of your congregation, and – songs about human relationships and are raised without any way to express Another example is the local 7-11 day, like candies in a box, and take and political factors account for the would not always have him physi- ministry, the children’s council decided how can they be encouraged to respond divine connection, honest portrayals them. stores. If it is open 24 hours a day, 365 what each new day brings. existence of poverty; and efforts to cally present to serve and adore. But the children of the church could help in love to that need? of lives that have headed in the wrong days a year, why do they put locks on As we get towards the end of our address those factors often result in you will always have the poor! raise the funds to continue the program. Celebrating a Children’s Sabbath direction only to be “broken open” and Movies the door? The next time you are in one, lives, the question “why” is replaced by frustration and discouragement. Jesus tells his disciples that in his Children’s ministry takes many is one way to bring the prayers, new turned around. “The Way” – Martin Sheen loses ask the clerk behind the counter why he the question “when.” When are things Sensing the frustration behind the physical absence, the poor are to be forms. Churches minister to children, learning about the community and Bruce Springsteen “Wrecking Ball” his son in a freak accident and decides has locks on his door. I bet he doesn’t going to finally get better? When are protestor’s outburst, I decided to re- seen as those on whom you lavish for children and with children. Ideally, new possibilities for ministry into the – The Boss rocks us out again with a to walk El Camino de Santiago, The know. people going to wise up and live bet- spond by inviting him and the audi- your love for me. every congregation has the opportunity worship life of the congregation. Plan a wealth of God-language and Gospel Way of St. James, an ancient Christian Why do they put Braille dots on the ter lives? When are the citizens of the ence to pause and look at the context The point is made explicit in Mat- to invite children into relationship with Sunday to celebrate God’s love for chil- imagery woven in amongst the anthe- pilgrimage, along with several other drive-thru menu at McDonald’s, espe- world going to start loving our neigh- of the statement by Jesus, “The poor thew 25 when Jesus said, “Inasmuch God and to nurture them as they grow dren and our call as Christians to make mic rockers and folk-ballads. pilgrims. Along the way they encounter cially on the driver’s side? I can better bors as we do ourselves? When is our you always have with you.” Rather as you did to the least of these you in that relationship. that love real in the lives of children. If Needtobreathe “The Reckoning” beauty and pain, sin and redemption, understand why they have them on the time to die going to come? than it being a justification for resig- did to me.” Some churches, sadly, do not have your congregation does not have many – these South Carolina “stealth Chris- and new life in the midst of death. ATM machines, but on a drive-thru? If Unlike the inquisitive child, our nation and neglect of those who live “The poor you always have with much of an opportunity to do so. The children, encourage people to bring tians” keep on bringing good God “Blue Like Jazz: The Movie” – ad- you are so blind you have to use Braille questions become less and less, but in poverty, it is an invitation to meet you” is not a resignation to the in- question then arises, “How can my their grandchildren to church that day. music into the mainstream. aptation of Donald Miller’s spiritual to read, how did you find the drive-thru their answers become harder and and serve Christ in the poor. tractability of poverty or a calloused church be in ministry with children Churches that demonstrate care for memoir that gives an honest portrayal to start with? harder. According to Matthew’s account excuse to ignore the plight of the when we have no children present?” children in their community witness Books of a faith that struggles to break out of Other questions discussed were why Strong is pastor of Mount Holly (Matthew 26:6-13), Jesus is hav- poor. It is an invitation to meet, love The Great Commission gives us a faithfully to God’s love, even when “An Altar in the World” by Barbara childhood restraints and become genu- do we drive on parkways and park on UMC, Rock Hill. ing dinner in the home of Simon the and serve the Crucified and Risen word of encouragement when we find they have fewer children than they Brown Taylor – technically she’s a inely and authentically one’s own. leper. A woman came with an alabas- Christ in “the least of these.” ourselves in this situation: Go and would like on Sunday mornings. Christian “insider,” but this book about Tompkins pastors Travelers Rest ter jar of costly ointment and poured Mother Teresa knew the truth of make disciples. The key word is “Go.” James is director of Connectional finding God in the midst of everyday UMC, Travelers Rest. View his blog at it on Jesus’ head. The disciples were Jesus’ invitation when she affirmed, Even when there are no children in my Ministries for the S.C. Conference. activities out in the world, not just http://becomingmorevile.wordpress.com Guest Commentary angered by the apparent “waste” and “If you want the poor to see Christ in protested that “this ointment could us, we must see Christ in the face of have been sold for a large sum, and the poor.” The Congregational Development Question by Hattie Best Polk the money given to the poor.” Carder is a retired United Meth- What If? Their argument makes sense, at odist bishop living in S.C. and a A letter for my granddaughter least on the surface. The disciples member of the S.C. Task Force on by the Rev. Sara White knew Jesus’ friendship with and the Pan-Methodist Campaign for Growing ... smaller? on her wedding day compassion for the poor. He was Children in Poverty. hat if local congregations edge of us to such a degree that they we use in South Carolina told our S.C. The United Methodist Church in S.C. Author’s note: After being moved in eager to participate. We sat around a Now, my beloved friends, it is one ding day along with a tiny, beautifully develop stronger faith by walk with us and help us along the way. planters that the key to multiple small is light on small groups. We have many a positive way by last month’s View- table lighted with a candle and shared thing to fight for justice and acceptance painted box with a young girl standing growing smaller? Small groups are the place for these groups is that the pastor never starts a groups within the church, but most of point article by the Rev. Keith D. Ray our stories. I was deeply moved by the for all gays and others in the LBGT by a lake overlooking a magnificent I’m talking about relationships to form. small group with only themselves as them are actually fellowship groups II, I felt led to share a letter I had been emotional experiences of some when community in general, but it’s quite rainbow. Wsmall groups. Small faith-based disci- Want to be a new church planter? leader. (Path One is the United Method- with too many participants for real re- asked to write for my church in Waynes- telling that although they had worked in another thing to discover that “all” in- A note on the box said, “For Hannah pleship groups are the backbone of any Learn about small groups. The most ist structure that supports new church lationship creation. So we have a great ville, N.C., as a part of the movement to the church all of their lives and brought cludes even my beloved granddaughter. on her wedding day.” of our efforts to increase participation successful new church starts have been starts and revitalization.) The pastor many places in our local church settings become a reconciling congregation. up their children in the church, now, I remembered the spirit of love, ac- On Nov. 15, 2013, I will make a and grow deeper as disciples. mindful of the first thing that they are begins the group with the knowledge that are fellowship-based and not really his is not the only blow I have because of the sexual orientation of ceptance and compassion Jesus teaches pilgrimage to New York City to witness I have been reading and quoting taught: creating small discipleship that after two or three sessions their co- designed for life transformation. struck for freedom in my their children, the church had hurt them us to have for all of his children. Jesus two hearts bound in love, into one life. Ecclesiastes recently. My favorite sec- groups leads to strong relationships leader will assume the sole leadership The congregation that worships 20 lifetime. I have always been deeply, turning its back on them. They goes on to say, “I came to bring the My only sadness is that the wedding tion is a brief admonition that “happy between God and the participant, and and the pastor will move to start another persons on Sunday morning is too large a champion for those in our were no longer welcome. abundant life to all,” not just some. ceremony could not be performed by is the one who walks with another, for those who build strong congregations. group. How many small groups is one to be a small group; 12 to 14 is about Tsociety who are not treated equally. I At that time, I did not know of Then a year later, again my phone her grandfather in The United Method- when they fall they have someone to One of the first actions of any new of the accountability questions of new the max for the group. But we say, “We worked diligently, often at great per- any family members who fit into this rang, and I learned of the upcoming ist Church that had baptized, nurtured help them up, and unhappy is the one church planter is to move into a neigh- church planters. are a small group.” Not really; 20 is a sonal sacrifice, for racial justice and category, but I felt deep compassion for marriage of my beautiful, gifted grand- and shaped my granddaughter into the who walks alone, for they have no borhood and start a small faith-based Want to grow an existing church? fellowship group that is limited in inti- marched in Ireland’s international those who did. daughter. I was thrilled, for I firmly amazing and beautiful person she is help.” That’s a paraphrase, and I’ll not group. And then the next action is to Learn about small groups. Most of the macy and ability to develop trust. Women’s March for Peace, but I never Then, one day several years later, my believe that God had been preparing me today. cite verse and chapter because I hope move into another neighborhood and above statements apply. Move outside What if it really is possible to grow dreamed where this would ultimately telephone rang. It was my precious and for this happy day all along. May that day come soon for others someone will try to find it and actually start another small group. And then an- the church walls in small groups and into stronger discipleship by growing lead me. only granddaughter, asking to visit me. I hurried upstairs, picked up the like Hannah. read the Old Testament’s Ecclesiastes. other small group is the next step. See find the places where spiritual energy smaller (smaller groups, that is)? Several years ago, when my church Over lunch she turned to me and with small white Bible I had carried as a Polk, wife of the late Rev. Charles However, the sentiment is clear. We the pattern? lives and create energy to bring into the White is director of congregational began actively seeking to become part tears in her eyes, said, “Nana, what young bride in 1945 and had lovingly Polk, served UMCs in the S.C. Confer- need people with us who have knowl- Jim Griffith, a Path One coach that church body. development for the S.C. Conference. of a reconciling congregation. I was would you say if I told you I was gay?” prepared to give to her on her wed- ence for 40 years. Page 12, September 2013 Other Advocate Advocate Education & Youth Page 13, September 2013 Yah Yah Fun Day! Wesley GIFTS ministry hosts Summer BizCamp LADSON – The Girls Inspired for Total Success discover new career opportunities. ore than 250 seniors from across the Spartanburg District headed Ministry of Wesley United Methodist Church hosted a “This is awesome,” said the Rev. Julius McDowell, to St. James UMC, Spartanburg, Aug. 14 for the annual Yah Yah Summer BizCamp Experience, a comprehensive camp Wesley pastor. “What these young girls have learned Fun Day. Yah Yah is designed for older adults who are young at designed to teach young middle school girls about can definitely assist them in jumpstarting their own heart, like to play and enjoy Christian fellowship. In addition to personal discovery, leadership, entrepreneurship and businesses right now.” Mwisdom and laughs from humorist and inspirational speaker Glen Ward, the teamwork. The young girls will expand their experience this crowd enjoyed music from the Chord Street Boys, a local barbershop quartet, The BizCamp, held June 24-July 15, offered par- upcoming year into one in which they will develop a and a lunch catered by Mutt’s Barbecue. A songfest led by Therlon Joyner and ticipants a fun-yet-intensive mini-MBA-style course full business plan and compete in a series of business Dr. Miriam Turner, along with senior exercises by Tonya Ray, rounded out the in entrepreneurship where they learned the basics of plan competitions organized by Youth Entrepreneur- festivities. Here are scenes from the day: putting together a business plan while developing ship South Carolina this coming spring. valuable academic and life skills. The mission of the GIFTS ministry is to impact the Sarah Buncum, an experienced Youth Entrepre- positive development of the total girl by exercising neurship South Carolina BizCamp instructor who has gifts, talents, time and effort to serve the church and an extensive business background herself, directed community effectively through mentoring so young participants through the principles of business cre- The BizCamp, held June 24-July 15, offered participants a girls are afforded the necessary leadership and direc- fun-yet-intensive mini-MBA-style course in entrepreneur- ation and operation during this three-week period. At ship. tion that can become the difference between personal the end of the camp, participants presented their plans success and failure in certain areas of their life. to a panel of judges for a chance to win seed capital. professional observing, participating and asking Once inspired, these girls can realize their goals, Prior to BizCamp, the girls learned about a career questions. The experience provided the girls realistic make the best decisions for their future and reach their by spending at least part of a day with a business career information and empowered participants to potential as productive responsible women. Photos by Jessica Connor Glen Ward shares nuggets about being from the South, his so-called smartphone that likes to Attendees sing randomly dial the wrong person, Strom Thurmond, accents, and strange ailments like “very during the song- close” veins or “hyena” hernias. The crowd especially enjoyed his musical impressions, as he Rehoboth brings Jesus, children together ‘down by the creek bank’ fest. channeled his inner Aaron Neville, Johnny Mathis and Lawrence Welk. By the Rev. Doug Benton to offer its music camp to any child Jesus His children, not just the chil- they learned about Jesus. They learned who wanted to attend free of charge. dren of the church or denomination, how to pray, play and sing praises COLUMBIA – During the week of Organizers said this event serves or even the Christian faith. They to His name together as one body in July 15, Rehoboth United Methodist many Christian purposes, as well as brought Him children of the poor Christ. They came together, so apart Church held its second summer music following one of Christ’s greatest and disadvantaged, many of whom and so different in so many different program, “Down by the Creek Bank.” mandates when He said, “Bring the received their only meal of the day ways; but as they sang on that Friday The church’s Children, Youth and little children to me.” As organizers from Rehoboth. They brought Him night, they became one voice, more Family Ministries Director Morgan said, Jesus did not say “just bring me children from battered and abused confident in themselves, more willing Singing “Good- Ward has been hard at work for many the little children who attend church.” homes and children who had never to accept others and their differences, bye, My Coney months along with this year’s program He did not say “just bring me the little been to church or had been taught the one group of children who felt during Island Baby,” the barbershop director, Becky Wilburn. The entire children who are Jewish.” He did not things that a good Christian home life one span of time the love of Jesus. quartet Chord Rehoboth staff, Music Director Toni say “just bring me the children who can bring. They brought Him children Was it a difficult week? Yes. Did Street Boys Hollingsworth and Administrative are brownish in color.” He did not from many races and nationalities. organizers and volunteers experience get the crowd Assistant Elaine Comstock also gave say “just bring me children who are They brought Him the children of the difficulties with this task in many clapping and many hours to assist before, during healthy.” He did not say “just bring rich, the poor, the healthy and the sick. areas? The answer is “yes,” but along grinning. Event organizer Nancy Becker lifts up the Bernice Lewis gives out special recogni- and after the event. me the children who behave all the They brought Him children who had the way, the adult mentors learned 52 churches, seven denominations and 256 tions, from oldest person to person who In addition, scores of church volun- time or children who only come from been taught good manners and how to a few lessons too – lessons that can attendees at the annual Yah Yah Fun Day. drove the farthest distance to attend. teers stepped forward during the week a good family life.” He said “bring the behave, and other who needed gentle make us all better Christians. to assist, and others who were not little children to me.” instruction given in a way that Christ On that special night, Rehoboth available to work provided generous All of them. would have given it. brought Jesus and His children all amounts of money and supplies. The During the summer music program, Rehoboth placed these children together as one family “Down by the end result was that Rehoboth was able Rehoboth did just that. They brought ages 5-12 in a program together, and Creek Bank.” Wings for the Lord youth choir tours Midwest SENECA – Wings for the Lord Youth wonderful experience touring Chicago Choir from St. Mark United Methodist and visiting Temple UMC, the tallest Church, Seneca, hit the road for their church in the world. They also sang and 18th choir tour this summer. enjoyed fellowship with special needs The youth, grades seven to 12, en- adults and teens at the Stewart Home joyed the weeklong tour to Chicago and for Special People. elsewhere as they sang in churches, re- During the year, the choir also sings Attendees do senior exercises led by Tonya Ray. tirement communities and other venues. for worship services at St. Mark and The tour included stops in Lexing- other churches in the community. ton, Ky.; Franklin, Ind.; Crystal Lake, More information about our choir Dr. Miriam Turner accompanies Therlon Joyner during the songfest. eBook now available! Ill.; Mason, Ohio; and Frankfort, can be found at www.saintmarkumc Ky. seneca.org, or email Donna Poston at Organizers said the youth had a [email protected]. only $7.99 This was the choir’s 18th tour. Young mother hired as St. Luke UMC youth director WALHALLA – St. Luke Each summer, the youth of St. Luke join other Methodist chaplain,” she said. “He led the way for us United Methodist Church has youth groups around the state in a selected area to and helped us ‘find our path.’ I was raising my hand hired a mother of three young help rebuild, restore and refurbish homes that are in for everything, and participating in all the activi- children as its new youth direc- dire need of repair. There were seven sites chosen to ties, but the youth work finally became my goal. St. tor. work on this summer in the heat of July, and none of Mark helped me grow there, and when this youth job Order hard copy and Lydia Dever is the mother it was easy. became available, they helped me apply for it. I am eBook online of twins, Isabella (“Bella”) Dever’s husband has retired from the Army; they proud to be a part of St. Luke and the United Method- and Lydia (“Lydee”) who are have lived on posts all over the U.S. and in Germany. ist Youth Fellowship program here.” at AdvocateSC.org or 5 years old, and a 2-year old, Dever Right now he is working with the Greenville County St. Luke’s youth meet for Sunday school each call Maria (“Ria”), all girls. Sheriff’s Department. Sunday morning at 9:45 a.m. in the Youth Room, and 888-678-6272x335 Dever began her part-time work at St. Luke July 1, Dever talked about her total commitment to God each Sunday night at 5:30-7:30 p.m. if a special gath- just in time to participate in the Salkahatchie project and the role that her children had played in knowing ering has not been planned. Above, Therlon Joyner leads the crowd in Christian melody. At right, the Rev. Chris Barrett, St. James at Bamberg. that she was needed in God’s plan for the universe. Youth are encouraged to bring their friends. Dever pastor, welcomes the crowd while praising the congre- “I was there only three days, but it was an awesome “When we learned we were expecting twins, may be contacted at [email protected] or gation. experience,” Dever said. “I can’t wait to go back.” we found a chapel on Fort Jackson led by a United 864-638-3628. Page 14, September 2013 Education & Youth Advocate Advocate Education & Youth Page 15, September 2013

Foundations in Youth Ministry Youth to help First in Clover helps local kids with school supplies through ‘Big Day CLOVER – For the past three years, the This year, they purchased more than by the Rev. Daniel Griswold Men’s Prayer Breakfast group at First 1,000 items for donation. of Serving’ United Methodist Church, Clover, has For the last several years, First on Sept. 21 partnered with Sumner Grace to buy UMC’s United Methodist Women have Young people in worship needed items for the Clover School held a school supply fundraiser and do- COLUMBIA – Middle- and Men and hen I started my current functions came at the same time that I ample to the believers in word, in con- District. nated their items to the Clover School women’s high-school youth across the S.C. Together, they contribute the largest District, also. This year they donated groups position as youth direc- was building initial relationships with duct, in love, in spirit, in faith, and in Conference are invited to a special at First tor four years ago, I im- these same kids. purity” (I Timothy 4:12). Paul invested single donation to the district, buying more than $500 worth of supplies, in- youth service event in Columbia, the higher cost items that do not end cluding one-subject notebooks, pencils, UMC, mediately began looking I responded to all the requests with in Timothy, and Timothy spent time in Clover, “Big Day of Serving.” up in a lot of the drives, such as like 24-count crayons and more. They col- Wfor where young people were serving in “not at this time,” as I protected this the Scriptures, and at some point he was Set for Sept. 21 from 8 a.m. to do their the church. period of community-building among unleashed into ministry. backpacks, 8GB jump drives, 2- and lected more than 800 items. part to 4 p.m., youth in grades six to 12 help The most prominent position our the young; I certainly did not want to be At our church, after four years of re- 3-inch binders, etc. They usually donate Together, First is doing all it can to will engage in a one-day mission between $1,500 and $2,200 dollars. help local schoolchildren. local youth held in our worship services seen as the “guy who asks for things.” lational work and scriptural preparation, trip designed to transform and schools. was acolyte, and it was mostly young I wanted to be a giver – of my time, my we have had some breakthroughs. One revitalize a neighborhood in one children. By the time the young person advice, my prayers, God’s wisdom, my young lady has begun to read Scrip- day. was too big for the white and red robes, example in service and, of course, of ture during worship. A young man has They will tackle an area the Wofford students attend Bonner Scholars leadership institute which was usually around early middle fun together to bond. ushered for the first time, and another size of several city blocks. Or- “Let your life speak.” citizens and good workers as they move forward after school, the young person would drop In the long run, I didn’t want to put girl has begun learning the soundboard. ganizers said this event is about In addition to being a Quaker proverb, that phrase graduation. We’re talking about a partnership where out, and the acolyte trainers would look the proverbial cart before the horse. If Two have also joined our Missions youth and adults uniting to serve, is the title of a book by Parker J. Palmer, published the mentors must be here as expected, prepared and for new children. (I will note that some I had put our young men and women Committee. They’ve begun serving on and to bring hope and help to in 2000 by John Wiley & Sons. It was an appropriate passionate, reflecting their personal commitment to served in the nursery and at vacation out serving before they appreciated why their own, and I couldn’t be more proud people in need. theme for the 2013 Bonner Scholars Leadership In- helping others. All of us in the human services com- Bible school.) Christians serve, I’d be doing everyone of their growth in love for the assembly Adults of all ages are also invit- stitute at Earlham College in Indiana June 5-8, which munity in Spartanburg would like to see the Bonner Simultaneously, I noticed that there a disservice. If they do not understand of believers. ed to join in the event. It is hosted was attended by eight Wofford College students and experience made available to more students.” were murmurs from various folks that why we sacrifice, and why we devote I believe that youth will want to by Mount Hebron United Method- staff. Another side of Bonner story is reflected in com- young people did not serve the church our lives to giving in Christ’s name, serve. If we welcome them wholeheart- ist Church, Lexington UMC and Wofford launched its Bonner Scholars program in ments from the Wofford Bonners who participated in “much” or “at all.” There was a per- as vessels becoming symbols of God’s edly into a shared journey through Saxe Gotha Presbyterian Church 1991, becoming one of the first colleges in what is the 2013 leadership institute, such as Megan Tyler, a ception that teens were not contribut- grace in this world, I’d be harming prayer, understanding, applying Scrip- The cost is $29. now a mature, national network of 76 institutions. It senior from Gaffney, who said Bonner leaves par- ing, and I did notice there seemed to everyone. I’d have burnt-out youth with ture and role-modeling sacrificial giv- To sign up, visit groupmission- is the only college in South Carolina whose program ticipants with authentic professional experiences and be some concern that our church did bitter souls toward the church and com- ing, then one day, you’ll get the ques- trips.com/the-big-day-of-serving/ is funded through an endowment provided by the networks with community partners. not adequately reach out to these age munity. I’d have older folks who see tion: “Can I help here?” And you’ll say, locations/columbia-sc/, or contact Corella and Bertram F. Bonner Foundation of Princ- “At the St. Luke Free Medical Clinic, I work with groups. kids as ungrateful and lazy. “Absolutely! Let’s go.” organizers Eric Hendrickson at eton, N.J. Rhonda in data entry,” Tyler said. “In the evening, stu- Photo by Doyle Boggs I was soon amazed at how many re- No need to perpetuate the stereo- Griswold is youth director at St. [email protected] The Bonner Scholars program is a carefully consid- dents take vital signs and help soften the edges around quests I received for “youth labor” from types. Andrew By-The-Sea UMC, Hilton Head From left, Wofford Bonner Program Coordinator Ramon or 803-794-8273, or Hank Brooks ered approach to solving to the systemic problem in Galinanes, Sam Stricklin, Jacob Booth, Ryan Carter, Megan medical care. I am so grateful to be there, and I feel various folks. Each person meant well, When Paul took on Timothy, who Island. Follow him on Twitter @Dan- at [email protected] or 803- 21st century society: moving young men and women Tyler, Mary Katharine Williamson and Dr. Eliza Bartow that I have helped a lot of people. When they tell you but the requests for help with yard work was young, he instructed him, “Let no nonhill or check out his blog, Daniel- 359-6838. from cradle to college to career. Colleges – particu- pause for a smile. stories, you realize that the depth of the problems in and some of the heavy lifting at church one despise your youth, but be an ex- Griswold.Wordpress.com. larly church-related colleges – seek to resolve the ten- a residential liberal arts college and participate in our society related to lack of access to good medical sion between individualism and the collective good, service learning activities. care.” and go beyond well intentioned volunteerism into Bill Brasington, a Wofford graduate who is execu- Each class at Wofford has spaces reserved for about Immerse draws youth across S.C. for spiritual growth developing civic professionalism and the vocation of tive director of the Spartanburg Adult Learning Cen- 15 Bonner Scholars, and inquiries are now being wel- helping others. ter, explains it this way: “Our goal in the not-for-profit comed for the class of 2017. Contact the admission By Hank Brooks of deep conviction, of a savior who deeply desired Bonner Scholars also is designed to give deserv- community is not only to assist our client-students, office at 864-597-4000 or Ramon Galinanes, Bonner to have a relationship with someone broken. “Why ing students the financial support they need to attend but also to help their Wofford mentors become good Program coordinator, at 864-597-4402. LAKE JUNALUSKA, N.C. – This summer, youth would someone like you (God) desire to be intimately from across the S.C. Annual Conference descended connected with … me?” Farmer asked. on Lake Junaluska for S.C. Ministries with Young Immediately following Farmer, Rhodes went on to Theologians gather to examine Columbia College family, friends People’s spiritual life retreat, Immerse. talk about the “scary” conversations when God calls Youth were active participants in worship as they us. perspectives of market, its margins event set for Oct. 11-13 were challenged by the speaker, Matt Rhodes. Rhodes “God is calling some of you to be a nurse, or a COLUMBIA – Lutheran Theological church adjusts to cultural changes, it is Columbia College will host a Family held at the Student Union (lower level) is a South Carolina native who currently serves as a trashman, or a teacher. Whatever God is calling you to Southern Seminary and Lenoir-Rhyne critical that its theologians engage in & Friends Weekend next month. on campus. youth pastor in the Wesleyan Church in Marion, Ind. do, as long as it’s His plan and you do it to the best of University hosted the 2013 Convoca- dialogue and worship that draw them The event, “A Splash of Color: Neon For more information about the The Josh Ridings Band, Spartanburg, led the stu- your ability, you are responding obediently,” Rhodes tion of Teaching Theologians Aug. 5-7 together around the issues of the day. vs. Pastel,” is set for Oct. 11-13. It fea- event, call 803-786-3663 or visit www. dents in worship music ranging from songs like the preached. at its campus in Columbia. Southern Seminary, with its recently tures the 58th annual Ludy Bowl and is columbiasc.edu/osa. Grammy-award-winning “10,000 Reasons,” to tradi- Students were then invited to walk up to walls that The annual event brought together successful merger with Lenoir-Rhyne tional hymns blended with modern instruments. The Above, youth had been placed around the room and to respond with theologians from Evangelical Lutheran University, is now positioned to be on Josh Ridings Band has led worship the past two years do some team- how God was calling them by writing on them. “I Church in America and Evangelical the forefront of theological dialogue. at Immerse and will be one of the bands featured at building during will serve Christ by being a physical therapist,” and Lutheran Church in Canada seminaries, We are pleased to broaden this conver- Immerse. At left, Revolution Feb. 14-16, 2014. “I don’t know what you want, but I will follow you,” colleges, universities and non-Lutheran sation to include key theologians from Spoken-word artist Sarah Farmer, currently serv- Immerse featured were just two of the many comments youth wrote on speaker Matt schools with bishops and church leaders across the higher education institutions ing in Atlanta, set up Rhodes’ messages before each Rhodes, spoken- the walls. to examine and discuss a theological of the ELCA.” sermon. Spoken word is poetry that draws from other word artist Sarah God continues to move in students, through youth topic of significance to the church. The convocation brought together forms of art like theater, drama and dance. However, Farmer and The leaders and through the design team. Holy conversa- The focus of this year’s gathering 55 of the leading teaching theologians Farmer places heavy emphasis on storytelling, faith Josh Ridings tions are still taking place, and God is continuing to Band. was “Market and Margins: Lutheran from across North America and beyond. and Scripture while drawing from her own experi- work in the lives of those who attended Immerse. Perspectives.” Discussions focused on the impact ences. to the diversity of the S.C. Conference. At the end of Chris Lynch and the team are excited and working “LTSS is proud to host the Convoca- the current economic system centered Small “family groups” gathered after each worship each night, church groups gathered to discuss the day diligently to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the tion of Teaching Theologians,” said Dr. on the notion of “market” is having on session to talk about the services. Curriculum had and pray with each other. transformation of the world at Immerse 2014. Clay Schmit, seminary provost. “As the people in the global North and South. been developed solely for these groups in correlation On Friday evening, after the Josh Ridings Band Brooks is youth minister at Lexington United Meth- with each sermon, and students were placed in groups had finished leading students in the first set of songs, odist Church, Lexington, and served as the chair of with members of different churches exposing them Farmer took the stage. Her spoken word was one the Immerse Design Team. SMC names Yvonne Harper new director of public information Spirit Singers youth choir prepare for 2013-14 tour season SPARTANBURG – Yvonne Harper has experience in college and community The Spirit Singers, the S.C. Confer- Methodist Church, 1201 Mohawk Dr., ciples UMC, 185 Riley Smith Rd., 2014 in Columbia joined the staff of Spartanburg Method- relations, serving as community rela- ence Youth Choir, are gearing up for West Columbia Greenville March 15, 2014 – 7 p.m. at First Clo- ist College as director of public infor- tions coordinator for Second Harvest their weekend tour season. Sept. 8 – Morning worship at Vir- Jan. 11, 2014 – 7 p.m. at Beulah ver UMC, 124 Bethel St., Clover mation. Food Bank in Elizabethton, Tenn.; All are welcome to attend any of ginia Wingard Memorial UMC, 1500 UMC/Sandy Run, 1577 Old State Rd., March 16, 2014 – Morning worship Harper will continue to serve as director of college relations, Virginia these musical worship services. Broad River Rd., West Columbia Gaston at St. John’s UMC, 130 Tom Hall St., director of the college’s paralegal cer- Intermont College in Bristol, Va.; and The 2013-2014 Weekend Tour Nov. 9 – 7 p.m. at Broad Street Jan. 12, 2014 – Morning worship at a Fort Mill tificate program. She has directed the director of marketing and community Schedule is as follows: UMC, 310 North Broad St., Clinton Columbia-area church (to be confirmed) For more on the Spirit Singers, visit program for the past nine years. relations, Theatre Bristol, Appalachian Sept. 7 – 7 p.m. at Trinity United Nov. 10 – Morning worship at Dis- Feb. 14-16, 2014 – At Revolution scmyp.org/spirit-singers. Her background includes significant Children’s Theatre, in Bristol, Tenn. Page 16, September 2013 Page 1 Jump Advocate Advocate Page 1 Jump Page 17, September 2013 CAMPUS MINISTRIES: ‘Vitally important’ to UMC THREE LEADERS: Huge achievements for S.C. team From Page 1 the February CCM meeting. It com- and explore what seems best for South From Page 1 peers with this historic election as the S.C. Conference prises McClendon, James, the campus Carolina’s unique climate. For instance, youngest to ever serve in this capac- “For all the talk in the church, with Campus Ministries ministers, BHECM Chair Bill Huestess, some conferences make every campus Henry-Crowe a ‘bridge-builder’ ity, I am clear my leadership principles all the woe about our denomination’s Clemson Wesley Foundation the Rev. Ken Nelson and a handful of ministry an Advance Special Ministry. Henry-Crowe, dean of the Chapel will be called into practice through new survival, about how we need to reach Charleston Wesley Foundation others. Some conferences pump huge amounts and Religious Life at Emory University experiences and challenging opportuni- more young people and more diverse Winthrop Wesley Foundation “We’re going to put every idea and of money into campus ministry pro- in Atlanta, will succeed James E. Win- ties. We will work together to not get people – all of that happens particularly Methodist Student Network at model up on a board, let everybody see gramming and staff. Some have a pool kler as chief executive of the GBCS. weary, so the silent become liberated to in campus ministries,” McClendon University of South Carolina everything,” McClendon said. of money, and campus ministries write The GBCS is one of four international speak, the lame in spirit are empowered added. “Where else do you have a bet- Orangeburg Wesley Foundation “Everything” includes resources and grants for their share. general program boards of the UMC to walk in grace and the marginalized ter chance to reach young people? All Furman Wesley Foundation logistics (such as funding models and whose prime responsibility is to seek are granted reserved-seating at the Francis Marion Wesley Foundation the stuff we claim to need to focus on facilities); existing standards with tech- Essential work implementation of the United Methodist partnership-table. Social Principles and other policy state- is primed to happen in campus minis- nology, web presence and social media; It’s a lot of work ahead for the task Henry-Crowe Keith Gadson “As God continues to be the author tries.” and campus ministries on the horizon force, but it is essential, McClendon ments on Christian social concerns of and finisher of my faith, as righteous Conference Director of Connectional money of their own, and they leave (Lander University is actively trying to said. Campus ministry keeps young the General Conference, the denomina- prayers continue to avail much, as I Ministries the Rev. Kathy James said school within a few years. That, cou- start a campus ministry, and University Christians in the fold during college, tion’s highest policy-making body. on issues of human well-being, justice, ever, for two years in a row, with more continue to be embraced by the love campus ministries are vitally important pled with competition from fraternity of South Carolina Upstate is exploring and it prepares them to be stronger “The opportunity to support the com- peace and the integrity of creation” and than 5,000 hours of combined service and support of my family, my friends, to the faith. parties and other student diversions, starting one). disciples as they mature in their faith. munities and lives of real people around to “speak its convictions ... to both the provided annually from faculty, staff my colleagues and the people of the “Campus ministries represent our means campus ministries have to work “Here in the beginning we’re going McClendon said for the past several the world in their struggles for justice church and the world.” and students. congregations I serve (the St. Mark and United Methodist witness to the Chris- triple-hard to keep their flock engaged. to jump on research, across the Con- years, the majority of the ordination is the call of the Gospel of Jesus Christ “Susan Henry-Crowe has the experi- An active presenter and panel- St. Matthew UMCs, Taylors/Green- tian journey to young people who are Not to mention that in 2010, the nection, and work toward a rough draft and commissioning classes are directly and one in which I am privileged to ence, faith grounding and disposition ist, Keith is a member of the Council ville), I am confident this is going to be learning, seeking and making decisions conference froze funding for campus by February,” McClendon said. “We’re tied to campus ministry; many of these serve,” Henry-Crowe said. necessary to accomplish these tasks, for the Advancement and Support of an amazing journey of ministry pos- about what is important to them in the ministries programming (funds current- going to propose the best plan we can, ordinands say their Wesley Foundation In addition to her extension ministry and we are all looking forward to hav- Education, College and University sibilities and team-building for the BC- present and for the rest of their lives,” ly support only the salaries for campus but with the understanding that the was probably the most powerful force service to Emory, Henry-Crowe served ing her serve as our general secretary,” Personnel Association and the Associa- WUMC. Let the church say, ‘Amen!’” James said. ”United Methodist campus ministers). Board of Higher Education and Campus in their call. as a member of the United Methodist Childers said. tion of Governing Boards. She serves The national BCWUMC works to ministry can be a vital link between col- Many of the campus ministries are Ministries will make the final call on “In my experience, especially in a Judicial Council, the denomination’s on the advisory board of S.C. Women identify, develop, support and enhance lege students and local churches. Many now scrambling to live into sustainable whether to tweak it or adopt it or go in larger church, church members and top court, for 16 years, and was the first Keith a ‘great leader’ in Higher Education, is secretary of the opportunities for the inclusion and of our young clergy first responded to and practical ways to thrive. another direction.” young adults who are best equipped to woman elected president of that court Keith, who has been president of S.C. Higher Education Tuition Grants empowerment of black clergywomen God’s call to ordained ministry through be disciples are the ones who got that (2008-2012). A member of the S.C. Spartanburg Methodist College in Spar- Commission and is an executive com- at all levels of the UMC; recruit, train, experiences in a Wesley Foundation.” Much-needed Money and leadership start in campus ministry,” McClendon Conference, she is the former direc- tanburg since 2009, is leading a one- mittee member of the S.C. Independent educate, prepare and support black Across the S.C. Conference, seven McClendon said the task force is One critical thing the task force will said. tor and associate director of the S.C. year term at the helm of the National Colleges and Universities, in addition to clergywomen for service and ministry campus ministries have the exceptional needed because Conference Connec- examine is oversight and leadership for The Rev. Ricky Howell, campus Conference Council on Ministries, and Association of Schools and Colleges serving on their president’s Council and within the local and national church charge of reaching, supporting and tional Ministries has experienced much the BHECM. Some conferences have minister for the Winthrop University she also pastored several S.C. UMCs: of the UMC that began last month. Finance Committee. work areas, appointments beyond the nurturing the souls of college students structural change recently. Before, a paid staff person who oversees all Wesley Foundation, said there is much Seneca-Friendship, Arrington-Holroyd, NASCUMC is a voluntary association The Rev. Mitch Houston, who serves local church and other areas of minis- during what can be a joyful, tumultu- campus ministries operated with vi- campus ministries; other conferences unrealized potential both in current con- Arrington and Shady Grove. of schools, colleges and universities on the SMC board of trustees, said try; develop and promote a network of ous and highly formative time in their sionary leadership from a large, active lead through committee. The S.C. task ference ministries, as well as on cam- S.C. congregational specialist the committed to the historic and distinc- Keith is simply “great” and the board is resources, mentors and colleagues for young lives. Conference Board of Higher Education force will explore resources and logis- puses we are not yet serving; the newly Rev. Ken Nelson, one of three South tive values of United Methodist-related extremely proud of her achievement on black clergywomen in order to help From the Clemson Wesley Founda- and Campus Ministries, but now that tics, along with structure, accountability formed campus ministry task force Carolinians who serve on the GBCS education. It exists to advance the work a general church level. provide a positive experience and en- tion in the Upstate all the way to the board comprises a handful of members and connectionalism to ensure campus hopes to guide the conference toward board, called Henry-Crowe a “bridge of education and scholarship in member “When the search committee started hance black clergywomen’s progression Charleston Wesley Foundation in the from the Discipleship area of the CCM. ministries are primed for growth and better reaching that potential. builder” and “prophetic leader.” He institutions, working cooperatively with looking for a new president of Spar- in ministry; and much more. Lowcountry, campus ministries reach While they are a committed group, the sustainability. “Nearly every discussion about said the UMC will be blessed under her conferences, boards and agencies of the tanburg Methodist College, we wanted The Rev. Angela Ford Nelson said college students where they are and change means campus ministries is left The second priority is financial sup- church decline – United Method- leadership. UMC to address issues of mutual con- someone who would be relational with that for many years, “Pastor T” has help them live into new and real ways without as much support or oversight, port. When the conference decided in ist or otherwise – involves concern Anderson District Superintendent the cern to the church and the academy. our students and the greater Spartan- been a mentor, sister and friend to her to be productive disciples for Christ. McClendon said. Between that and 2010 it could no longer give campus over the loss of post-high school and Rev. Susan Leonard-Ray, also on the “I am looking forward to collaborat- burg community; Colleen has far ex- and others in the ministry: “Pastor Gad- Ask any campus minister and they’ll funding concerns, the campus minis- ministries any money for programming, young adult church-goers,” Howell GBCS board, said Henry-Crowe has a ing with educational institutions from ceeded our expectations,” Houston said. son will surely use this national plat- tell you the young souls they nurture tries program needs new visioning. only for staff, the news was a huge said. ”United Methodist campus/col- deep heart for God and a keen eye for around the country as NASCUMC pro- “It’s no surprise to me that others in the form to continue to share her passion are just as (if not more) on fire for “Our current way of structuring and shock for some of the campus minis- legiate ministries are essential because God’s people everywhere. vides opportunities for connection with global church recognize her leadership for the work of ministry and her pursuit Christ as their more seasoned coun- funding campus ministry is not sustain- ters. they exist specifically to engage the “Susan will no doubt help the UMC peers and enables discussions on im- skills, also.” of excellence in all things, with both terparts in traditional churches. They able over the long term and does not “That was a big deal and still is,” post-high school crowd with the inten- continue our Wesleyan heritage of wed- portant issues from the shared perspec- clergy and laity who seek to be about feed and clothe the homeless, spend allow for growth,” James summarized. McClendon said. “With campus min- tion of discipling them, while also ding personal faith and social holiness tive of each institution’s relationship to Gadson a ‘mentor, sister, friend’ our Father’s business.” their spring breaks doing international The task force had its kickoff meet- istries, their congregations are students helping them transition into spiritually through her new post as the general The United Methodist Church,” Keith Gadson, pastor of the St. Mark-St. Hartsville District Superintendent Dr. mission work, give of their time and ing Aug. 9 and is hoping to spend the who cannot give to support their own mature young adults who are actively secretary of GBCS,” Leonard-Ray said. said. “I treasure the partnerships and Matthew Charge in Taylors, was elect- Robin Dease said Gadson will bring a talents to volunteer with needy kids or next few months researching the current ministries and come and go every few involved in local churches.” The Rev. Clayton Childers, who personal relationships I have developed ed president of the national BCWUMC renewed energy to the National Black the elderly. reality of campus ministries in South years.” Watch the Advocate for updates on served congregations in Newberry, Sa- through NASCUMC.” at the group’s 25th anniversary meeting Clergywomen. But make no mistake: it’s no cake- Carolina, then propose a strategic plan The task force will look at fund- the task force’s progress in the strategic luda and Greenwood before being ap- Under Keith’s leadership, SMC in Dallas last month. “Her technological skills, visions walk. The students usually have little for the future of campus ministries at ing models used by other conferences plan. pointed to GBCS in 2001 as director of launched a $15 million capital cam- “The Bible reminds us, ‘To whom of excellence, passion for ministry conference relations, said Henry-Crowe paign; built an $11 million academic much is given, much is required.’ These and ability to multitask will invigorate will provide “outstanding leadership.” building; strengthened its marketing words are the essence of my senti- and inspire us all,” Dease said. “South Conference immigration team urges UMs to help with reform efforts Childers said it takes a unique individ- efforts and is about to engage in an ments on being elected president of the Carolina is proud and looks forward By the Revs. Emily Sutton and Richard Reams ual to lead the GBCS, which is required extensive planning process. The col- National Black Clergy Women of The to seeing the indelible mark she will Act now – Send this letter to legislators by the UMC’s Book of Discipline to lege also received national recognition United Methodist Church,” Gadson told make.” We stand in a long line of witnesses who have carried on the work of Name of Point Person provide “forthright witness and action for service initiatives for the first time the Advocate. ”To be affirmed by my Some material courtesy of UMNS. Return Address of Point Person the Kingdom that Christ began when he said, “The Spirit of the Lord is City, State, ZIP on me, because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of Dear Representative: sight for the blind, to set the oppressed free.” United Methodists have long advocated for just and humane immigration reform. As people Churches gearing up for Advance Special Ministries Sunday Nov. 2 That is our legacy; how are we living into it? of faith, we are committed to acting out our faith by being good neighbors to immigrant families. South Carolina’s United Methodist churches from (Spartanburg), Interfaith Community Services, United The United Methodist Church believes that all immigrants are made in the image of God and that The immigration debate in this country is far from over, and our God calls us to welcome the immigrant and to love our brothers and sisters, as we are one body the Upstate to the Lowcountry are getting ready for an What is your church doing Ministries of Greenville, Killingsworth, Coastal churches have a responsibility to engage in the discussion. That is why in Christ Jesus. annual Sunday that celebrates and supports 14 unique to celebrate Advance Special Samaritan Counseling Center, Cooperative Ministries, we in this conference have an active team that focuses on immigrant and We would like to share with you what it means to us to be a good neighbor, which means standalone ministries. PATH (People Attempting to Help), Rural Mission, refugee ministries. We are still calling on our elected officials to enact im- recognizing the presence and contributions that immigrants bring to our congregations and com- Advance Special Ministries Sunday, set for Nov. 2, Ministries Sunday? Tracy Jackson Program of GIFT, Volunteers in Mis- munities every day. is an opportunity for churches to support the confer- sion (UMVIM) and Wallace Family Life Center. migration reform that protects the rights of immigrant workers; seeks to (Insert here what your church or district is doing through any ministries that are in place to Send us your stories about what your ence’s 14 Advance Special Ministries, which provide While the ASMs are not solely reliant upon the reunify all families; and provides a clear, reasonable pathway to citizen- welcome immigrants, such as English as a Second Language classes, Justice for our Neighbors congregation is doing to help celebrate ship that is not arbitrarily tied to border security or a merit-based system. clinics, etc.) assistance and services to the “least of these” among conference, their income is supplemented by the con- and support the 14 ministries on We are asking United Methodists across the conference to tailor the In order to recognize our immigrant neighbors contributions, we support the following princi- us. South Carolina’s ASMs are certified every qua- ference through an apportionment line item, plus they letter (at right) to their specific churches, districts and ministries, deliver ples: A pathway to citizenship for all who wish to contribute to our country with minimal obstacles; drennium to ensure they are connected to the mission Advance Special Ministries Sunday, receive much-needed funds from Advance Special reunite all families who have been separated, since family unity has always been a foundation set for Nov. 2. Email it to their congressional representatives, and continue praying for our of our faith; protect the basic civil and human rights of all immigrants; and stop deportations until of the UMC, and some United Methodist representa- Ministries Sunday. leaders involved in this national debate. just and human immigration reform is passed. tion is required on each ASM’s board of directors. [email protected] by Sept. 10. For a full description and contact information for If you plan on signing this letter or want to be part of the team, please We hope you can support these important principles. They also receive grant funds from the S.C. Con- each of these ASMs, visit the conference website at let us know. If you would like an electronic copy of this letter, or have Our prayer is that the House of Representatives will support these values and will move quick- ference Board of Global Ministries each year after www.umcsc.org and look under the Ministries tab, ly to see that effective and human reform is passed. Thank you for your service to our district. completing a funding request. ville-Cheraw Area Cooperative Ministry, Columbia then select Outreach, then Advance Special Minis- questions, email [email protected] or richard.reams@gmail. Sincerely, (Your name, plus any members/pastors who feel called in each church) com. ASMs are the Alston Wilkes Society, The Bennetts- Bethlehem Community Center, Bethlehem Center tries. Page 18, September 2013 Advocate Advocate Page 1 Jump Page 19, September 2013 Conference on Ministry with Children CIRCUIT RIDERS: All are welcome to join outh Carolina had the opportunity to play host to a huge, From Page 1 national, multiday Conference on Ministry with Children about Jesus?’ You have to go with some Bikers – want offered by The United Methodist Church’s General Board of sort of commonality. to ride along? Discipleship. “What I know is motorcycles, and All bikers are welcome to ride with SSet for July 23-26 at Buncombe Street United Methodist Church the United Methodist Circuit Riders, that’s where I am.” regardless of age or gender, on all and the Hyatt Regency, Greenville, people from across the denomi- Pushing 60, Barnett, who has been nation gathered to hear preaching and teaching on effective and types of street-legal motorcycles. riding motorcycles since he was 9 years The next ride is Sept. 7 at 10 a.m. innovative children’s ministry ideas to use in their congregations. old, had been riding with other bikers Riders meet at Beulah United S.C. Resident Bishop Jonathan Holston was among featured lead- at Beulah for some time as a way to fel- Methodist Church, Gilbert. For information, contact John ership of the event, and key preachers and speakers included South lowship. But one day, he began to look Carolina’s own Dr. Robin Dease, new Hartsville District superinten- Barnett at [email protected] or around him in the pews. Beulah has 404-695-0314, or just show up at dent along with others from South Carolina leading workshops and had some growth over the years, but he Beulah. discussions. realized most of the new members were Holston and Dease were joined by Dr. Edward Phillips of Can- transfers from other churches. dler School of Theology, South African author the Rev. Trevor That’s a big problem for the church “I think it’s different and I think it’s Photos by Jessica Connor Hudson; North Georgia author Delia Halverson; Dr. Leanne Ciampa Through a new motorcycle ministry called the United Methodist Circuit Riders, these open- on a global level, Barnett said. fresh,” Krepps said. “You get people of air riders are hoping to turn biker neighbors into Christian brothers and sisters. Hadley of First Steps Spirituality Center, Colorado Springs, Colo.; “People move around from church to all ages, men, women, all together.” and the Rev. Michael Williams of West End UMC, Nashville, Tenn.; church, but we don’t really bring people S.J. Conway, also a Beulah mem- among many others. in from outside,” Barnett said. “So I ber, has been riding on and off since With a theme of “Make a Joyful Noise to the Lord,” workshops thought, OK, how do we actually go she was 18; currently she rides a pink included inspirational worship, safe sanctuaries training, distance Photos by Jessica Connor except where noted out and reach people who say ‘I believe and black special edition breast cancer and ongoing learning, children’s ministry certification course, ser- When everything is going so fast in society, “How do we let children be children?” asks Dr. Robin Dease, one in God but don’t have a relationship in awareness Harley Davidson. Conway of three panelists who discussed the “tween” in the 21st century during an open table talk Thursday. vice and mission, and weekday preschool training. Jesus Christ?’ How do we reach out and said there are at least 12 bikers in her Many S.C. Conference people were behind the scenes, helping to help them develop that relationship?” neighborhood alone, and none of them make the conference a success, including Gayle Quay, Cari Treece, So he decided to do what Jesus, John go to church. Chris Malaska, the Rev. Kitty Holtzclaw, Katie Cate, Faye Latta, the Wesley and countless other evangelists “The real goal is to involve the com- Rev. Smoke Kanipe and Rebecca Griffith. have done since Christianity began: Hit munity, make them think, ‘Maybe these Here are photos from the event: the road. church people aren’t so bad,’” Conway Right now, the United Methodist said. “There are certain places we go Circuit Riders ride every other Satur- that bikers like to go, and they might day, using the 50-50 rule: if there is a think, ‘That’s a pretty nice group; hey, 50 percent or greater chance of rain, or maybe I’ll go to the church fish fry.’” the high temperature is 50 degrees or Claudia Rowe, who has been rid- below, the ride automatically cancels. ing about eight years, said the ministry “The real goal is to involve the community, “I relate to people who ride motorcycles, so I can talk to people who ride motorcycles,” As Barnett said, people don’t like to could be effective not only with nonbe- make them think, ‘Maybe these church people aren’t so bad,’” said S.J. Conway. said John Barnett, who founded the group. ride when it’s cold or raining. lievers but with nascent believers, too. The Rev. Kitty Holtzclaw serves as They meet at Beulah and then fan “A lot of people know Him but worship leader during Thursday out, meeting others and bringing them don’t really know Him,” Rowe said, Young Kaylee Laflamme is anointed with oil during Thursday worship morning’s worship. in. As the ministry grows, they hope to noting bikers might feel more comfort- Gayle Quay begin the rides at other United Method- able heading to a church where they (left), of Bun- ist churches in the Midlands. know other bikers attend and would be combe Street The evangelism is light at first wanted and welcomed. UMC, Green- – they’re a group of likeminded Chris- Fellow rider John Painter agreed. “If ville, and Judy Mulkey, school tians who get together and ride, but we can put out anything that might pos- principal, when the opportunity presents itself to sibly lead people to Christ, that’s not a share in a witness, they do. bad thing,” he said. symposium “Hopefully we will spread both the The United Methodists Circuit Rid- about the suc- word and Christ’s love among the biker ers are planning a mass kickoff event, cessful way the church has community and anyone else we encoun- and have launched a website, www. The Rev. James Friday, Greenwood District superintendent, shares during Attendees were invited to share partnered to ter,” Barnett said. umcriders.com. a workshop led by Dena Kitchens on children’s ministries in small-member- inspirational messages about help children Dr. Tim McClendon, Columbia In addition to weekly and biweekly ship churches. children on this tree. at the school. District superintendent, said the new rides, they plan to do some fundraisers ministry is a wonderful project that and have a presence at activities that will promote relevant discipleship and draw motorcyclists, such as rallies or evangelism. swap meets. “This has the potential of being But for now they’re out there every one of the most unique and effective other Saturday having a good time ministries of the entire UMC in reach- together, popping into biker-friendly ing people for Christ,” McClendon restaurants and making new friends, all said. “It’s another ‘first’ in ministries to increase the Kingdom one soul at a started through S.C. United Methodists time. – lay-inspired and UM connectionalism “We’ll just see where the Lord takes connecting with people.” us,” Barnett said, grinning. He said it also fulfills the Columbia For more information about riding District’s motto: together we can do with the United Methodist Circuit Rid- more. ers, or if you are interested in being a Photo by Melanie Gordon Those involved with United Meth- road captain, contact Barnett at john@ S.C. Resident Bishop Jonathan Holston serves as odist Circuit Riders are excited about umcriders.com or 404-695-0314, or just celebrant during Tuesday evening’s worship. the fun new opportunity to evangelize show up at Beulah. and fellowship. They appreciate that The next ride is set for Saturday, the ministry isn’t simply a riding group Sept. 7, at 10 a.m. All are welcome re- but an authorized ministry of the UMC gardless of age, gender or type of bike, that recently received approval from as long as the bike is street legal. the General Church to use the official cross-and-flame symbol as part of its logo. Beulah member Ron Krepps has ADVERTISE HERE been riding motorcycles since he was [email protected] The S.C. Annual Conference will reimburse participant registration for the first 20 participants Children and adults worshipped to- Jaden Jones sings “The Lord is my God” during a kid and thinks the ministry is a great from the S.C. Annual Conference. Contact David Anderson, 888-678-6272, ext. 326. gether throughout the multiday event. worship. way to do outreach. Page 20, September 2013 Ministries & Missions Advocate Advocate Ministries & Missions Page 21, September 2013 UMW mission work: Rosa and Frances’ adventure The road to ‘Hallelujah’ By Frances Williams jams, jellies and other items brought in by local crafts- men. The following days were spent sorting baby and On April 15, my friend Rosa Chandler and I depart- toddler clothes in the children’s closet. A mission trip with the Rice and Beans Ministries in Alajuela, Costa Rica ed South Carolina on an adventure to the mountains of Rosa and I enjoyed the scenery and fresh air. The By David Essex and a celebration of communion on Kentucky – the Appalachian Mountains, that is. air was so fresh it felt like you were able to inhale Thursday night. During the week, we Our adventure began as a Christian mission trip to everything around you. I don’t remember seeing a One of the required fields when fill- all became accustomed to the Costa the Henderson Settlement in Fraker, Ky. Upon arrival bird flying up there. We had free time for ourselves. ing out customs and immigration forms Rican style of prayer, which is when we found our sleeping areas, made our bunks and Rosa usually found some of the other ladies piecing is the address of domicile in the country one prays, all pray – out loud! It was went exploring. The settlement itself sits atop a moun- together a gigantic farm puzzle (which they finally put that you are traveling to. disconcerting at first, but by the end of tain with spectacular views all around. together). I had instructed our team to list the the week, we were comfortable with While there we were separated into groups to help I think Rosa enjoyed her quiet time as much as I address for the Iglesia de Metodista de the practice, and I have to say I miss facilitate one of the mission ministries onsite or trans- did. Cell phones barely worked, and there were no Mesias in Alajuela, Costa Rica, which that harmony of prayers being lifted ported to the White Oak site about 20 miles away. TVs in our dorm area. We also learned how to take a is the base for the Rice and Beans together. Rosa was assigned to the mission sewing shop, where shower and not wake up 15 other people. Ministries, with whom we were sched- The Hebrew meaning of “hallelujah” quilts, curtains, tablecloths, table runners and more All in all, it was very interesting, educational and uled to work June 22-29. We were to is “praise (ye) (the) Lord.” After reflect- are produced and sold on the local economy or to mis- spiritually fulfilling. The next trip is scheduled for the be joined later by a team from Missis- ing upon all of our experiences this sion helpers like me and Rosa. year 2015. Rosa and I will wait to see how many more sippi who would be serving with us. past week in Alajuela, I think our friend I spent the first day of my journey in the craft store adventurous women we have among our group that The church sisters did mission work at the Henderson The Mississippi team relayed a story from Mississippi had it right when she Settlement in Kentucky. sorting, tagging and pricing items such as T-shirts, will attend. about their experience with Costa Rican Members of the team pray in Alajuela. told the customs official that they were customs in which none of their team going to Hallelujah. AWS to hold annual members knew where they were stay- salvation bead bracelets and fish and I was afraid that he was going to be run Our devotion guide for the week UMVIM trip to Haiti seeks team members ing. When pressed by the customs of- flowers from pipe cleaners, plus col- over. Passersby seemed to be ignoring urged each of us to carry our mission meeting, award lunch ficial, one of the ladies said, “I think we ored, painted sun catchers and drew on him. I walked to the man. He was semi- experience forward when we returned Missioners are sought for an upcoming United towels (but not washcloths), bed linen and Internet. A are going to Hallelujah.” After a long cards. conscious, and I tried to help him out of home. Curry reiterated that point many Methodist Volunteers in Mission trip to Haiti. mission shirt and insurance are part of the package. COLUMBIA – The Alston Wilkes Society will period of pauses, the team was allowed The food bags consisted of a four- the road. He was covered with the big times during the week. The trip is scheduled for Feb. 18-26, 2014, though The team will be working with an UMVIM-ap- hold its 51st annual meeting and awards lun- to leave the document check area. We pound bag of rice, two bags of dried red ants that I know have stinging bites. Why is it easier to go somewhere it may be shifted a day or two due to airline schedules. proved group called Ryan Epps Home. The project cheon on Thursday, Nov. 21, at noon. all got a chuckle from their story. black beans, a bag of corn flour and I offered my bottle of water, which he else to serve people in need than to The project is a home for a family displaced by the will be a home on the grounds of Ryan Epps Home AWS is a United Methodist Advance Special Our team of 30 youth and adults a package of powdered milk. Curry took, as well as a pack of crackers one serve people at home? I do know that 2010 earthquake in Port Au Prince, Haiti. for a family displaced by the earthquake. There will Ministry and statewide nonprofit that provides from Herbert Memorial United Method- purchased the food in bulk. The cost of the Mississippi crew had given me. Luke 12:48 applies to many of us in The cost is $1,500, which includes everything ex- be four homes built for families that critically need a offenders, former offenders, the homeless, at-risk ist Church, Georgetown, had planned was $12 per bag, and it will feed a fam- He had thick mucus in his eyes, nose America: “To whom much has been cept incidentals. (Additional project funds are always home. The team is limited to 25, and there is work on youth, veterans and their families the tools they this trip for almost nine months. Fred ily of four for one week. We took bags and mouth, and I tried to brush the given, much will be required.” welcome.) The team will be staying in Villa Mamika the grounds and with children. need to become productive citizens. Curry Jr., director of the Rice and Beans with us that members of our church had ants away. I put my hands together and God expects us to share our blessings with two persons to a room, with breakfast and dinner Contact team leaders Jim Smith at smithjames@ The luncheon will be at Seawell’s restaurant Ministries, had visited our church last decorated. We also took money for ap- asked if we could pray for him, and he with our brothers and sisters who are included. Team members should bring their lunches comporium.net or 803-325-1832, or Nick Elliott at in Columbia. September and explained to our team proximately 180 food bags. We brought shook his head no. Some in our group in need. Those who ignore this biblical from the United States. Villa Mamika offers a pool, [email protected] or 404-663-4281. More information is available by contacting the ministry’s goals and objectives. He New Testaments in Spanish, plus chil- gathered on the other side of the road, model of justice are not good Christian Erin Wagner at 803-799-2490. said our normal weekly schedule was dren’s vitamins and prenatal vitamins. and we prayed for him anyway. role models. construction work in the morning for Those were distributed as well. We Nightly worship varied with devo- Essex, who served as team leader, those able. Bible school was planned brought acetaminophen but left it for tions and reflection, intense prayer attends Herbert Memorial UMC. Idea Exchange for those who chose not to do construc- a medical team to dispense. And there tion. In the afternoons, we would all was candy for the children. participate in delivering food bags to On Monday through Thursday, our Trinity’s Back to School Bash families in need. team performed construction, conduct- At Trinity United Methodist Church, Conway, we This is an annual event that precedes a new begin- Women, United Methodist Men, youth parents and Construction activities involved ed Bible school at three schools and have had success in bringing focus to the start of a ning of UMYF, choir practices, fall Sunday evening other groups in the church. By providing a nursery work on the second and third floors one community center, and delivered new Sunday school and church calendar year by host- services, a new Sunday school year and new fall chil- and scheduling our confirmation class and UMYF of an addition to the church where we more than 300 food bags to families in ing a Back to School Bash celebrating new begin- dren’s programming. People of all ages look forward meetings to end at the same time, the entire family were staying. During the week, our various neighborhoods. We involved nings, family and fellowship. to gathering from 4-6 p.m. on a Sunday evening. can have a Sunday evening meal together and still get group extended the tin roof, hung and more than 500 children and many We invite all members of our faith family of all This year our Sunday evening services will try on home early enough to prepare for the week and get finished Sheetrock, painted steel beams adults in our Bible school efforts. The ages and stages, as well as the community, to join a new look to encourage attendance and offer some- kids to bed. and gates, chiseled concrete and ran food bag ministry allowed us to serve us for a day of fun, games, music, food and fellow- thing for everyone. We will begin with a 10-week Trinity is trying something else new this fall by of- electrical wiring, as well as repaired and pray with approximately 1,500 ship. Some of the men grill hamburgers and hotdogs. Bible awareness discussion and viewing of the televi- fering six weeks of beginning conversational Spanish outlets in the church. adults and children. We have inflatable “bouncy” houses and slides, face sion miniseries “The Bible.” We will gather (ages classes for those who are interested. We have several Bible school activities in the schools As we gave out the last few food painting, games and contests for all ages, usually a 13+) and view one hour of the 10-session DVD series, native Spanish speakers who are members of our consisted of singing, playing games bags on Thursday, I saw an elderly man kickball or softball game, live music from our choirs have about 20-30 minutes of discussion and then church, and they have been most happy to share their and doing crafts. The children made passed out on the side of the road. One or soloists or quartets and plenty of seats under the end the evening with a fellowship dinner provided culture, language and unique skills with others. bookmarks, cross necklaces with beads, of his legs was actually in the road, and shade trees for visiting and watching. by various Sunday school classes, United Methodist – Submitted by Trinity UMC, Conway S.C. UMMen retreat planned for spring Calling all men: the S.C. Conference 28-March 2, 2014, at Springmaid Idea Exchange United Methodist Men are now plan- Beach Resort. Watch the Advocate for ning their 2014 spiritual retreat. more details, or visit the UMM page at Feeding our children The retreat will be held Feb. www.ummsc.org. In June 2012, our Outreach Commit- the information obtained from our and holidays. God has blessed the all things were possible. tee at Montgomery Memorial United Blessings in a Backpack ministry, and program in so many ways. Five other To help with the financial support, 2014 South Carolina Conference Program Calendar Methodist Church, Pacolet, met to the information from the school, we churches in the area have joined the we held a golf tournament May 18. One Pre Orders are now being taken discuss a program called Blessings in a determined that we needed to budget an team. They have helped us financially, of our committee members celebrated a Backpack. extra $2,000. with the labor of preparing the bags and birthday and, in lieu of gifts, asked for This year you have two options: I shared with the group a story of a The church held a fundraiser and in transporting them to the schools. food donations. 1. Order online at www.umcsc.org. Click kindergarten child in our school. The with the support of our church mem- Another big supporter of the pro- This past year has been a real suc- on the link and then find the child told her teacher that she did not bers, we began to plan the program gram is S.C. Hunters and Landowners cess, and the program has blessed 2014 UM Calendar option. want to get out early for Christmas for the new school year. Before school for the Hungry. They have provided many. The families are grateful, and it 2. Print out and complete the holidays because she would miss the even started, I received a call from the extra food from their warehouse, and it is a joy to see the children just light up 2014 Calendar order form, then mail school lunch. This touched the heart of school that increased the number of is their generosity that has allowed us to when they see the boxes coming. We to the conference office with full payment all who were present, and I talked with children to 35. How could we say no to expand our program to providing food are proud of the hard work the commit- for your order. the school guidance counselor about children that needed food? We just put to the children in the summer months. tee has done. this child and asked if there were other our faith in God that the money would Working with the other five churches, All are happy with the success of the The cost is $10.00 per calendar, and a children with this same concern. be provided. and Hunters and Landowners for the program, and excited to begin the new calendar will be provided with all church Our group set out to put together a We started the program in August Hungry, we were able to provide food 2013-2014 school year. orders for the pastor. plan for weekend food bags for a total 2012, and since then have been able boxes every two weeks for each of the – Submitted by George Gentry, of 20 children in the elementary and to provide extra food boxes for the children in the program. We took on ex- chair of outreach at Montgomery Calendars will be mailed out in November. middle school in the Pacolet area. With children to cover the long school breaks tra this summer, but with God, we knew Memorial UMC, Pacolet Page 22, September 2013 Ministries & Missions Advocate Advocate Ministries & Missions Page 23, September 2013 Epworth News UMWomen: Turning faith, hope, love into action Addressing poverty from every direction by Janice Eaddy Dillon understands poverty all too well. He under- living below the poverty level prior to their arrival. see God’s work in his or her life. It is done by setting stands nights without food and feeling worried. “It is a cycle we see all too often,” Holler said. expectations of a better life and providing them with Showing agape love What Dillon doesn’t fully understand is that his life “The parents are high school dropouts or have a histo- the necessary tools to live into the new expectations. s I look back over my life time, I felt my membership was all I was given the opportunity to visit many owners show such gratitude for our in poverty stems from his parents’ lack of education. It ry of foster care themselves. The children haven’t had Many of the children enjoy the extra income from as a member of the United needed. However, God had much more local units and develop friendships work. Knowing their names was not is the result of his mother’s own life of abuse and liv- strong, positive role models in their lives in regards to their summer jobs so much they request to work two Methodist Women, there is in his plans for me. that I believe will last for my lifetime. important: just being able to see their ing in foster care. It stems from her mental instability job performance and stability.” part-time jobs. Dillon is one of those children. He only joy. I accepted the office of Supportive Our district visited all five of the South smiles at the end of the week. and a cycle that has been generational with his family Within the family system there is a lack of educa- worked part-time during the morning hours in the din- AI cannot imagine what life would be Community and suggested to my local Carolina mission projects to share fi- We recently visited the Henderson for years. tion, but also a level of dysfunction or counterproduc- ing hall, and then spent his afternoons with the main- like without the opportunity to give to unit that we start the “secret pal” pro- nancial and tangible gifts to women and Settlement in Frankes, Ky., which gave Dillon is a resident of Epworth Children’s Home. tive behavior that perpetuates the system. tenance department. He isn’t old enough yet to leave others through this wonderful organiza- gram. That was the start of my willing- children we will never be able to call by another opportunity to help others by He has spent this summer working in the afternoons For a large number of the children, having a safe Epworth’s campus for a job, but will be next year. tion. United Methodist Women allows ness to share with others a love that was name. Isn’t this agape love in action? working in the food pantry and green- around Epworth’s campus alongside the operations place to sleep and a warm meal is more than they had Dillon is one of three in his family living at Ep- me to connect with a community of deep inside without the expectation of Having used all of my tenure, I houses. Again, agape love was shown to department employees. Each summer, Epworth co- before they arrived at Epworth. If you ask them what worth. He has two younger sisters on the campus, women whose purpose is to know God anything in return. moved to serve on the S.C. Conference those that rely on the generosity of the ordinates with local businesses and organizations to they need when they first arrive, they will say things as well, neither of whom are old enough to work. and to experience freedom as whole As a child, I watched my mother UMW Mission Team as assistant dean volunteers that visited. match children 14 and older with part-time jobs. like “safety, comfort, a bed, food, clean clothes.” Though Dillon has lived at Epworth for some time, he persons through Jesus Christ. This give out our limited resources and of the School of Missions, treasurer and Now serving as treasurer of the “The benefits to the children are significant,” said As the days and months pass by, their list changes. remembers his old life. includes the development of a creative, did not realize exactly how much this chairperson of the Committee on Nomi- Southeastern Jurisdiction, I am given an the Rev. John Holler, president of Epworth Children’s They are surrounded by tutors, nurses, counselors, Each week when Dillon gets paid, he gives his two supportive fellowship and to expand the would become a part of shaping my nations. This provided an opportunity opportunity to show agape love outside Home. “They learn job skills, interview skills, em- pastors, volunteers and nurturing staff members who younger sisters an allowance. “I want them to have the concept of mission through the global adult life. Now I realize those lim- to participate in several mission trips to of my S.C. Conference as we plan for ployer expectations and the value of an honest day’s help lift them up from every direction. Epworth’s best,” he said. ministries of the church. ited resources were increased by God show agape love to others. the 2016 SEJ event. Our nine-member work.” purpose is to break the nonproductive cycles that lock Breaking the cycle is often a long and complicated The Bible teaches us to have “agape” because of my mother’s willingness to The trip that I shall always remember team is in the process of choosing a “When children arrive at Epworth, they usually children into poverty and dependency. This is accom- process, but with Dillon, and others like him, seeing love for everyone. God demonstrates show agape love to those around us! was made to Sager Brown in Baldwin, location that will allow women from come with nothing,” Holler said. plished not just by meeting a child’s basic need for the old cycle break and begin to fall away is amazing this love in John 3:16, “For God so As members of UMW, we have the La. While there, I joined a work team 15 conferences to join together in The majority of the children served by Epworth are food, shelter and safety, but by also helping each child to witness. loved the world, that he gave his only opportunity to show the same type that made repairs to a home that was fellowship, as well as be in mission begotten Son, that whosoever believeth love to our neighbors near and far. God damaged during Hurricane Katrina. for women and children in this global in him should not perish, but have ever- commands us in Mark 12:31 to love Now we were there in 2011, six years society. I would not give up my journey lasting life.” our neighbor as thyself. Membership after the storm, but the tarps were still for anything in the world, and I am very Celebrating Local Church Missions This journey for me began more than in my local unit led to serving on the on top of many of the homes. What a grateful to God for placing me in line to 20 years ago as a member of my local Florence District as secretary, treasurer humbling experience to see the condi- be in mission and share the agape love Lay leadership lifts up work of local churches unit. Being such a young woman at that and president. During those 12 years, I tions of the homes there and have the my mother taught me many years ago.

Editor’s note: At Annual Conference 2013, the inaugural Celebrating Local Church Mission Luncheon recognized ministry and missions that local churches are actively involved in. AWS to hold annual Low Country Blues Bash fundraiser From the 24 churches responding, the conference’s Lay Leadership group learned of approximately 100 ways S.C. UMC brothers and sisters are spreading the Gospel and love of Did you know that you The Alston Wilkes Society will silent auction. person or $50 per couple. Christ through reaching out to address the needs of others. The next few issues of the Advocate share more information about these ministries. This month, we showcase outreach at can make a gift and re- be hosting their annual Low Country AWS is a statewide, nonprofit orga- AWS is also seeking silent auction Grace UMC, Pickens, and a combined annual mission by Trinity UMC, Blythewood, and Ashland UMC, Columbia, to the Dominican Republic. Blues Bash Oct. 20 at Bowens Island nization that helps former offenders, donations and has sponsorship opportu- ceive guaranteed income Restaurant in Charleston from 3-6 p.m. veterans and others make a successful nities available. Grace strives to serve like Christ Trinity and Ashland’s annual for life? The Blues Bash will feature an transition back into society. For more information, call Erin Wag- oyster roast, other seafood, music and a Tickets for the event are $30 per ner at 803-799-2490. That’s exactly what dozens through abundance of mission work mission to Boma of people have done since 1982 through Charitable Gift An- PICKENS – 2012 was a banner year new appliances for the family after nuities with the South Carolina for the missions program at Grace funds ran short for completion. United Methodist Foundation. United Methodist Church. More than The church bus has been a valuable $54,000 went to 18 different min- part of missions, being driven 2,228 Current One-Life Rates istries in local, state, national and miles to make these projects possible. For Selected Ages* international areas. The bus was filled with food, clean- Grace supports two missionaries, ing supplies and personal hygiene kits Age 60 4.4% one in Japan (the missionary is a rela- for the Mudfork (Logan), W.Va., area Age 65 4.7% tive of a Grace member) and the other for residents who needed help after a Age 70 5.1% in Bulgaria (the missionary grew up at sudden flood in March. Youth helped Age 75 5.8% Grace). assemble the hygiene kits and collect Age 80 6.8% Grace’s largest contribution is food. Age 85 7.8% keeping the Gleaning House Pantry in Also, children who live in neigh- Pickens operational by providing food borhood apartment complexes are Photo courtesy of Hunter Price Two-Life Rates Available to 450 families each Tuesday. Glean- bussed in for children’s activities on Members of a short-term mission of Christ in another culture using va- Upon Request ing House is the largest food pantry Wednesday nights and for vacation team, which is sent annually to the cation Bible school children’s minis- * Rates are subject to change. in the Upstate. Twenty-two dedicated Bible school in July. Boma in the Dominican Republic, try, youth ministry events, home visits members collect, fill and pass out One ongoing mission group is the smile during their recent trip. The trip and various need-based work projects. Gift Annuities with the Founda- $1 boxes of food each week. Close to Bahamas Youth Mission Team, who is a collaboration of two churches: The churches work alongside the local tion provide guaranteed lifetime Per Member $18,000 was given to the pantry to make summer trips to Eleuthera to Trinity UMC, Blythewood, and Ash- church in Boma to minister to their income at an attractive rate, purchase food in bulk. repair existing homes and help build land UMC, Columbia. The purpose is community and the other neighboring immediate tax benefits for your A spin-off ministry of the pantry new ones. More than $18,000 was to connect with and expand the body villages. charitable contribution, and a That’s how little it costs was the creation of the Winter Warmth given in order to make this possible. way to leave a legacy for the Program. Churches in the Pickens Some recipients of their work have future. Ministerial Association came on board made their way to Pickens to thank ------your church to have a one-year and provide a free clothing giveaway everyone for their homes. The South Carolina the first Saturday in December to any- An estimated 92 people serve in United Methodist Foundation, Inc. one who can use a coat, gloves, shoes, community mission programs each P. O. Box 5087 online subscription to the Advocate pajamas, sweatshirts and pants. More week, including Meals on Wheels Columbia, SC 29250-5087 than 4,000 articles were collected drivers, Girl and Boy Scout leaders, HOW IT WORKS: You send us $1 multiplied by the average weekly attendance as reported in the Con- through the year and handed out on hospital auxiliaries, youth court, liter- An esti- Send me information about a ference Journal. If you have 150 members as your average weekly attendance, then its just $150. (Big Dec. 3. acy groups, Narcotics and Alcoholics mated 92 Charitable Gift Annuity with the churches, nto worry, $1,000 max.) Then every month, we email you the pdf of the Advocate and you Grace supplies free office space Anonymous, Honor Flight sponsors, people Foundation. email dit directly to your members. You retain control of your list – no sharing or privacy issues! to the Pickens County Habitat for Country Santa distributors and other serve in commu- Humanity. They joined four other agencies. Name ______nity mission Address ______Pickens churches in building a new Grace strives to serve in the manner programs house for a family of five in 2012. that Christ commissioned his dis- each week City ______It’s that easy! Sign up today! Two Sunday school classes purchased ciples. through State ______Zip ______Grace. AdvocateSC.org/home/images/churchplan.pdf, 888-678-6272x335, or [email protected] Page 24, September 2013 Ministries & Missions Advocate Advocate Salkehatchie Summer Service Page 25, September 2013 A leap of faith: Trenholm Road missioners Jasper Salkehatchie ‘a complete success’ By Bill Barnier will step up when the Lord calls, no near completion on church in San Salvador matter what church or profession,” Mal- RIDGELAND – St. Paul’s United phrus said. “I can’t begin to mention all By Dr. Ozzie Shuler patients under tents in the alley. Construction was Methodist Church has bid farewell those who worked behind the scene to productive, and more church members were involved and thanks to the 2013 Salkehatchie make this camp a success.” In 2009, Trenholm Road United Methodist Church, in the work. I think the team realized that year that summer campers who made the sec- Under the direction of St. Paul’s Columbia, started a relationship with the Evangelical despite de Dios Peña’s efforts to find other teams to ond summer camp in Jasper County a Ouida Dell and Cindy Swailes, volun- Methodist Church of El Salvador, specifically with help with the project, we were on our own, and if we remarkable success. teer help came from other area churches their director, Juan de Dios Peña. discontinued our involvement, Vida Nueva would be Twenty-five youth and adult camp- including St. Paul, St. Luke, Tillman, That summer, the church sent a team to the town of left with an unfinished project. We were committed to ers, mostly from the Columbia and Church of the Cross and Hardeeville Ahuachapan, located about 10 miles from the Gua- a long-term relationship. Simpsonville areas, labored for five full UMCs, as well as Trinity Baptist, Till- temalan border. It was a traditional mission trip. The In 2012, the relationship was taken to a new level. days under hot, humid conditions to Between rainstorms, Preston Rivers from Columbia and Jeff Miro from Simmonsville lay out man Baptist and Holy Trinity Episco- team built a blockhouse for a local family who was The trip was arranged to cover two Sunday worship extend a much-needed helping-hand to new floor covering for their camp project in Ridgeland. pal. All volunteered time and goods to living in a primitive clay hut with a dirt floor and no services at the church. We were welcomed by the four families in the Ridgeland area. er, and between those two, the campers The other two project homes also see that the campers started their days running water. church members with open arms. The bulletin for that “There is such a huge need in Jasper replaced a complete roof, entry steps, a received paint, cabinetry, plumbing well fed at Thomas Hayward Academy. As a church, we were struck by the abject poverty; Sunday had our team picture on the front, taken in County by less fortunate families who front door, plumbing, a ceiling, sub- repairs and general cleanup. A new Lowe’s and ESPY Lumber were gen- we were also very impressed with the local leader- the Atlanta airport and copied off our team Facebook simply need the basics of a roof, run- flooring and vinyl in kitchens, laundry, well and pump system for one project erous with materials, and Jaspers Porch, ship of Rev. Juan de Dios Peña. The team leaders, page, welcoming their brothers and sisters in Christ. ning water and electricity,” said St. hall and bath. Campers also removed a was provided unplanned by Horry Well Kentucky Fried Chicken, Subway, Tim Teaster and the Rev. Mollie Bame Reddic, began The church was embracing our involvement in our Paul’s UMC project director Bobby tub and installed a new shower unit, as Service. Delong Construction provided Pizza Bella and Dukes BBQ stepped up work on the trip for 2010, and invited de Dios Peña to shared mission, serving the poor. The locals assisted Dale Malphrus. “The Lord most cer- well as a new electric service panel in tear-out and prep work at no cost and with delicious meals. Evening activities consider where we could best be of service to him and in numerous ways throughout the week, cooking us tainly directed our attention to these one home. Both homes got new fascia helped out with shopping for materi- were filled with worship, a visit by the the people of El Salvador. De Dios Peña expressed a delicious meals, serving as interpreters, running the four families whose homes were nearly and paint inside and out. The Jasper als, saving time and travel during the Jasper County Sheriff K9 team and a dire need for support in the capitol city of San Salva- pharmacy and even just managing the crowds for us. uninhabitable.” Boys and Girls club helped out with workweek. visit to the wildlife center in Ridgeland. dor. No other church was interested in a trip to this Every morning at the worksite, we shared devotions Two of the four project homes were general cleanup and lent a hand with “I’ve lived in Ridgeland all my life, Plans are already under way for the large city of 1.6 million people with a reputation for in both Spanish and English and were always amazed located across the street from each oth- paint and siding. and I’ve always known that folks here Jasper 2014 Salkehatchie, June 14-21. gang violence and one of the highest murder rates A missioner works with children during the trip. at how love was so easily expressed, even when we in the world. Yet a Methodist church there needed a didn’t always understand the languages of one anoth- medical clinic to serve the poor in their community. er. We were blessed by their convictions, deep prayer Salkehatchie-inspired ministry keeps Bethel members busy After much research, discussion and prayer, Teaster lives and generous spirits. For the past five or six years, Bethel been since those two camps. and Reddic agreed to take a leap of faith and lead a A 33-member team from TRUMC just returned United Methodist Church, Ruffin, has “It seems the folks here can’t get team to San Salvador. After reading the book “When from San Salvador, twice as big as any team taken sent out a Salkehatchie team regularly. enough of this kind of work, and since Helping Hurts: How to Alleviate Poverty Without in the past. This year, the team included a medical, The team went to Loris Camp once the two camps, various members of the Hurting the Poor and Yourself,” we realized we want- dental and pharmacy team. For the first time, we ran again in June. Many of the same mem- Salkehatchie team, along with other ed to form a relationship with a specific community a Bible school with the members of the local church. bers of that team also signed up for the members of the churches, have gotten and invest long-term in a community of El Salvador. Construction was aided by active involvement of the Walterboro Camp in July, a camp which involved in helping others in the neigh- The team worked hard to surrender our own prefer- local church members, in part because the trip coin- was coordinated by one of Bethel’s borhood who also needed some home ences and be available to the Holy Spirit’s leading. cided with a national holiday Fiesta de El Salvador del own, Jason Bryan, along with his wife, repair work done,” Major said. This was the first step towards a relationship Mundo (Feast of Christ as Savior of the World), when The clinic ceiling should be finished by the end of August. Jessica. Major said he is proud to serve as between two churches in very different parts of the most families travel for vacation or relax together, not But the Rev. Wayne Major, pastor pastor of these churches where God’s world tied by a common desire to love and serve Jesus The involvement of the local church that year was bend rebar and mix cement. of Bethel and the other churches on the work is so cheerfully being carried out Christ. minimal at best. Most of our relationships were made Great progress was made on the construction Ruffin Circuit, said the real story has by so many. Bethel members do roofing and other important home repairs. I was fortunate enough to be on that trip, and I have with the local hired construction workers. It was a project this year and, with the resources left behind, not missed one since. We began work that summer on fantastic trip where I truly believe every team mem- the ceiling of the clinic should be finished by the end the clinic in Iglesia Vida Nueva (New Life Church). ber grew closer to God. No one really knew what to of August. Many patients were treated in the medical This trip, because of the location of the church in a expect after that trip. We were committed to returning and dental clinic and lots of kids experienced Bible Sharing faith through works: Salkehatchie community situated between the territories of two and were hopeful other churches would pick up where school. By Derik Vanderford, reprinted with seeing the teens come out of their shell Marchant said. “God has been good to materials come from stores including rival gangs, had some unique features. We could not we left off. But more importantly, the poor who live in the area permission of the Union Daily Times and enjoy sharing their faith, which her. She comes and has devotion with Paradise Home Center, Jordan’s Ace stay in the church after dark. Instead we were housed That did not happen. TRUMC returned with anoth- around Iglesia Vida Nueva were shown the love and seems easier for them when they are us every morning and also prayer in the Hardware and Ben’s Paint Store. in a hotel in another part of town that was safer er team the following year to find a hole in the floor compassion of a group of Christians from San Salva- UNION – Six homes in Union were away from home. afternoon.” “We put about $25,000-$30,000 into (though it still had an armed guard outside). The team of the church, exactly as we left it. No other team had dor and Columbia, and hopefully in turn felt the love repaired this summer by the annual “The kids let go – they let loose to This marks Marchant’s 14th year the local economy in one week every had to be bused every day to and from the church agreed to go to San Salvador, presumably because of and compassion of Christ. Salkehatchie Summer Service Project. share their faith,” she said. volunteering with the project. year,” Brown said. through the center of San Salvador. safety concerns and previous relationships they had I imagine that’s what de Dios Peña had in mind There were 92 campers who are For a home to be considered for the Brown also pointed out how the There are nearly 40 other Salke- Over the course of the trip, we excavated a site for with other communities in El Salvador. The church when he asked us to take a leap of faith four years staying at Union County High School project, the applicant must own the camp contributes to the local economy. hatchie Summer Service Project camps the clinic by hand with shovels and wheelbarrows, did not have enough money to pay their pastor, much ago. Maybe it changed the lives of some people in while repairing homes in Union through home; be unable to help themselves The youth who volunteer to participate that take place throughout South Caro- ran a small clinic on the pastor’s porch with on-hand less construct a clinic. El Salvador; it certainly changed the lives of some the service ministry. Campers included physically, financially, or both; and in the Salkehatchie Summer Service lina. supplies and medications and introduced a congrega- We were disheartened but excited to begin build- people in Columbia. adults and youth ages 14-18 from the home must need a week’s worth of project each pay to come to camp, and The project was created more than tion to what it meant to have a mission team at their ing the clinic instead of digging a giant hole. The Shuler is a member of TRUMC. For more about throughout South Carolina and North work. Brown explained that the work is the money goes toward the purchase of 30 years ago by a Union native, the church. clinic we ran that year was larger, seeing around 800 UMVIM trips to El Salvador: [email protected]. Carolina. just as beneficial to the campers as it is materials for the various repairs. Those Rev. John Culp. The camp in Union was led by the to the homeowners. Native American Ministries Rev. Don Brown and is based out of “Many, if not most times, the home- S.C. Conference Grace United Methodist Church, while owners are radically different from plans trip to Africa other United Methodist churches in the those coming to help,” Brown said. “It’s county also provide support. a good experience for the teens to real- Bishop Jonathan Holston is lead- Natives in the military Repairs included roofing, flooring, ize the quality of life they have, too.” ing a January trip to Johannesburg We walk and fight beside you in raised on a reservation, enlisted in the veterans. ceilings, painting and doors. “We stress to them that they’re not and Africa University, and registra- honor to defend our land and our Marine Corps and will live in infamy The highest U.S. military honor is “It’s pretty amazing that these are all only working on houses, but they’re tion continues to grow. people. We are warriors, we are Ameri- as one of the men raising the American The Medal of Honor. It is awarded by teenagers doing this work,” said pro- working on these people’s homes,” The S.C. Conference-sponsored can Indians and we are patriots. flag on Iwo Jima. “Code Talkers” trans- Congress to a member of the armed gram volunteer Jessica Morris. Morris added. trip is set for Jan. 13-20, 2014. Natives have volunteered to serve lated messages to their Native language forces for gallantry and bravery in com- Each home being repaired gets a Site leader Wayne Smith explained The Rev. John Culp organized in every war since the Revolution- to cloak messages that were sent to the bat. Twenty-eight Natives have been crew of Salkehatchie workers and an the home at which his group was work- the trip, and Dr. Jim Salley will also ary War. They have and are serving in battlefields of Europe. given the Medal of Honor. Many also adult site leader. The groups work ing belongs to an elderly couple with be going. Spaces are available for every branch of the armed forces. They They were credited with saving received Purple Hearts, Silver Stars, throughout the day and congregate grandchildren who stay at the house on others interested in attending. volunteer with a higher percentage than countless American and allies’ lives. the Good Conduct Medal and Combat for fun activities and devotions in the a regular basis. The itinerary includes visits to any other culture in our nation. In World The code was never broken by the Infantry Badges. evenings. “I think that was one reason we Sharing God’s love through Salkehatchie the Apartheid Museum, the Fairfield War I, Natives were not even consid- enemy. With all of this sacrifice and dedica- Brown described the project. picked this house,” Smith said. “We Two teams of 27 high school and college youth from St. Paul’s Waccamaw UMC, Children’s Home and the Nelson ered U.S. citizens, yet more than 12,000 During Korea, Vietnam, the Gulf tion to our country, Native Americans “It’s an out-living of the faith we want to make it as nice as we can for Pawleys Island, participated in the Salkehatchie Summer Mission in Camden and Mandela House, as well as Africa Spartanburg this summer. Salkehatchie works to rebuild homes and rebuild lives, as volunteered to go to battle. In 1924, War and Iraq, Native people walked and remain the only group that does not have,” he said, quoting Scripture from the kids.” University itself. youth witness in mission and service to families in need. In Camden and Spartanburg, partly due to their loyalty and patrio- fought to defend all people. Estimates have a national monument honoring the James 2. “Faith without works is dead.” Another site leader, Les Marchant, All-inclusive prices start at house repairs included roofing, painting, flooring, porch repairs, cleaning and much tism, Congress passed a law to granting from the U.S. Veterans Administration lives lost and devotion to our country. Site leader Beth Ramsey, who has discussed working on the home of Elsie more. After each workday, the youth enjoyed a praise and worship service, then met $4,098. For more information, email citizenship to all Native Americans. and the Census Bureau suggest in the – Revonda Hardesty, Native worked with the service project for the Weathers, who just turned 92. in small groups for faith reflections. Both teams recently met for a celebration barbe- [email protected]. cue dinner at the church. 2013 marks their seventh year serving at Salkehatchie. A full-blooded Pima Indian, who was 1990s, there were 160,000 living Native American Committee secretary past 20 years, said she always enjoys “This is her birthday present,” Page 26, September 2013 Health & Fitness Advocate Advocate Health & Fitness Page 27, September 2013 Salem UMC to host ‘Faith Guest Commentary The Journey by the Rev. Gene Norris and Hope for Women’ by the Rev. David L. Anderson Salem United Methodist Church, Then, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., various Overtreated? Conway, will host a free conference for speakers will present. Dr. Michael Ellis Where is the time? women, “Faith and Hope for Women,” will speak on breast health and cancer Our book club just discussed “Over- I am 81 years old and have been Saturday, Sept. 14. treatment, Dr. William Jackson will Editor’s note: Anderson recently You’re lucky if you can find a seat treated: Why Too Much Medicine a diabetic for 71 years. I understand The day will start with registration speak on women’s heart health, and lo- attended the Clergy Wellness Insti- You’re fortunate if you have time to is Making us Sicker and Poorer.” I some of the next statement. Patients and a health screening from 7:30 a.m. cal women will share their faith stories. tute at Lake Junaluska and made eat critique the book hoping my reader often use doctors not for diagnosis, but to 9 a.m. The CMC Health Reach Van Lunch is provided. a commitment to improve himself Back in the classroom, open your already appreciates his/her doctor. to get prescriptions for TV-advertised will be providing the free total choles- Women are welcome to stay for through healthy eating, exercise books Shannon Brownlee, author, believes medicines to cure their self-diagnosed terol, blood sugar and blood pressure everything, though men are welcome Photo by Rebecca Huguley and other lifestyle changes. This is Even the teacher don’t know how we get too much treatment from our ailments. This can make well persons screening (participants must have noth- to get the free screening from the CMC the next installment in his ongoing mean she looks. Getting healthy and fit medical doctors. This is detrimental sick and neglect their real sickness. The ing to eat or drink for eight hours prior Health Reach Van. health journey. When I hear the driving rhythm Participants in the clergy health institute share a smile during their recent retreat. Pfei- to our overall health and may lead to old saying is “fools, flattery and friend- to the screening). Immediate results To attend, RSVP to 843-347-6752 or ffer University, in partnership with Agapé Senior and Lake Junaluska Conference and his week was vacation of this song, or hear and see these premature deaths. ships sell drugs to a demanding but will be provided. email [email protected]. Retreat Center, launched the Clergy Health Institute, a yearlong program designed to In the U.S., we believe we have the unsuspecting but well public.” Bible school. My schedule words, I think, “This sounds like my address the health and wellness needs among UMC clergy. It begins with a 10-night best health money can buy. In 2007, our The U.S. demands more medical started at 4:50 a.m.: walk, schedule.” I realize that it is only if I retreat at Lake Junaluska Conference and Retreat Center for 12-15 clergy members eat breakfast, go to Bible let it be. to come together for spiritual enrichment, leadership development and renewal. Pic- life expectancy was only 67 years, one specialists and less primary care doc- tured in back from left are the Revs. Blake Justice, Janice Frederick-Watts, Jim Arant, study, and then to the conference We are charged to give ourselves place below Cuba. Most doctors now tors. Specialists often look for what T Joseph James and Wayne Major, and in front from left, the Revs. Scott Cloninger, practice “defensive medicine,” which they can treat and disregard chief office for a fulfilling day of dealing time to recharge. We are to schedule Kelli Taylor, Paul Harmon and Karen Radcliffe. Cohort 2 was held July 14-24. helps guard them from malpractice. Yet diseases. Specialists do not know their with the issues of the day. according to the priorities within medical costs in the U.S. are the highest patients and are more expensive then At 4:30 p.m., it is off to the our life. When we think the district in the world, which makes socialized primary care doctors. church, last-minute preparation for superintendent or the church is mak- Want to hear more on a pastor’s health journey? teaching the adults, until around 8 ing so many demands on our time, medicine an attractive offer. The author The author rates veteran hospitals as The Rev. Kelli Taylor, pastor of Boone Hill United Methodist Church, Summer- p.m. Off to home, sitting down and we have to ask ourselves, “When is asserts that one-third of our medical the best. They have come a long way ville, has started a new blog about her journey in the Clergy Health Initiative. devotion, and then to bed (except for my devotion time?” “When is my care in the U.S. is unnecessary. since I was in the military. Here are To follow her progress, visit www.areyoumindful.com. Why do doctors practice unnecessary some reasons: 1. Code bracelets avoid the night I had a hospital call and did Sabbath?” “When is my time for care? 1. Lack of knowledge of what is giving wrong medicines; 2. Electronic not get home until after 10:30). recreation?” really wrong with their patients; 2. Lack records prevent contradictory overtreat- Rush, rush, rush. That seems to be We can look to Scripture for ex- of time to care for too many patients; 3. ing; and 3. Using more cooperative care the way life is. When I was a little amples. Jesus found time for himself. (Real reason) doctors are paid for how and less specialized care. boy I listened to music that my older After feeding the 5,000, Jesus went much care they give rather than how Brownlee recommends better brothers would play on our record up to the mountain to pray. This is an effective is their care; and 4. Doctors patient-doctor relationships and listen- player. Keep in mind that this was example we too often ignore. Hello, fitness! the days before stereos and CDs, So during this time of charge con- don’t know how drugs interact with ing to each other. The Lake Junaluska Fitness Center hosted a ribbon cutting June 21. The fitness other drugs, which can have detrimental In conclusion, Fortune Magazine and everything was either vinyl or ference preparation, planning meet- center is co-sponsored by Agape Senior and Pfeiffer University and is open to anyone effects. has a long article, “Dirty Medicine” on American Bandstand. I know this ings and actual meetings, take time visiting the lake. Pictured are Mike Miller, president of Pfeiffer University, the Rev. Another factor in overtreatment is (May 15) by Katherine Eban, who was dates me, but the truth is the truth. for self-care. Make a list of activities Scott Middleton, CEO of Agape Senior and Jack Ewing, executive director of Lake Junaluska, among others. that often doctors use new untested interviewed on Ed. Radio (July 20). She (Also be aware that my older broth- that are important to you. Set priori- medicines and sometimes continue to analyzes the longtime criminal fraud of ers were a lot older than I was.) ties for your personal life. You will use them on other patients after the an Indian company, Ranboxy, who sells The song that comes to mind now have support. death of the prime patient. Misdiagno- Lipitor to millions of U.S. and world is a song by Chuck Berry named My church showed me support sis and other medical errors cause many people. The medicine is of dubious “School Days.” The words go like this week in the most loving way. unreported deaths. It is estimated from quality. In the U.S., 84 percent of drugs this: The kitchen director for VBS asked 44,000 to 98,000 patients die or are come from overseas. The FDA has little Up in the mornin’ and out to school me what I needed to eat to help me harmed each year from overmedication. control over Ranboxy. The teacher is teachin’ the Golden with my lifestyle change. We talked, As we know, our hospitals are full. Christ cured diseases and gave his Rule and she made sure that I had a meal Yet many patients are not being treated disciples that power. Unquestioned American history and practical math every day of VBS that I could eat for their primary sickness, but for a sec- power makes the well sick. The body You studyin’ hard and hopin’ to pass and stay on track. ondary illness. They often die not for and mind have curative powers to heal. Workin’ your fingers right down to The people you serve want a lack of care, but need for better care. This article has been affirmed by a the bone healthy leader, and they will sup- The charge is that hospitals are dangers medical doctor. And the guy behind you won’t leave port your efforts when they see those because they render too much unneces- Norris is a retired United Methodist you alone efforts. As my brother in Christ Ken sary care. pastor living in Conway. Ring, ring goes the bell Nelson says, peace for the journey. The cook in the lunchroom’s ready Anderson is the S.C. Conference to sell benefits officer. Leave A Legacy To Change Lives The Advocate The South Carolina United Methodist Foundation P. O. Box 5087, Columbia, SC 29250-5087 [email protected] Legacy Society Assuring Christian journalism for tomorrow In June 1837, 176 years ago, the Your help is needed as Advocate began inspiring and a volunteer or member. informing Christians throughout the Contact us today. South. Today, the award-winning, www.alstonwilkessociety.org respected newspaper continues (803) 799-2490 3519 Medical Drive, its mission of connecting United Rebuilding Lives for a Safer Community Columbia, SC 29203 Methodists by independently reporting news, engaging readers “As a formerly homeless veteran, I came to the Alston Wilkes and providing a forum for dialogue Society for help. During that time I received intensive case – in print and online. management and was surrounded and supported by other veterans. Not only was I able to graduate from the program and become Consider including the Advocate self sufficient, but I now serve as the Director of the same Alston in your will or other estate planning. Wilkes Society Veterans Services program that offered me a second chance.” – Clinton Davis 803-786-9486 | [email protected] | AdvocateSC.org Page 28, September 2013 History Advocate Advocate Other Page 29, September 2013 Obituaries Methodism Revisited From the Archives Resource Center Charles Richard Baird Rev. Bob Huggins GREENWOOD – Charles Richard Baird, father of Obituary Policy Dr. Phillip Stone, conference archivist by Betty Stalnaker The Advocate prints death notices of clergy and their Matthew Baird, died July 19, 2013. Mr. Baird is the immediate families and laypersons who have served O’Kelley’s passion for democracy husband of the Rev. Heather Baird, pastor of Mount on conference boards and agencies or who work for Methodism and textiles For men and for women Bethel-King’s Chapel Charge, Ware Shoals. the S.C. Conference of the UMC. In 1775, an 18-year-old Irishman named tagonisms and pressures had been building Funeral services were held July 24 at Blyth The Resource Center receives many requests for James O’Kelly was intrigued by a phase he up with increasing vehemence for several South Carolina’s beginnings tions established at these mills a Funeral Home Chapel, with burial in Oakbrook charges. Women’s Bible Studies, the most used of which are the had heard from the Rev. John Wesley: “We years. O’Kelly was a formidable opponent, were as a rural, agricultural reasonable amount, proportioned Memorial Park Mausoleum. Funeral services were held Aug. 1 at Saluda High Beth Moore studies. Listed here are a few new studies will be downright Christians.” self-assured and influential, a most forceful state, and the Methodist Church according to the amounts paid Memorials may be made to Mount Bethel United School Gym, with burial at Shiloh UMC. by Babbie Mason, Barbara Cameron and Lysa Ter- Within a couple of years, O’Kelly and and convincing speaker, widely reputed for in South Carolina in those days by the members of the sev- Methodist Church, c/o Patty Wood, 844 Mount Memorials may be made to Shiloh UMC Ceme- Keurst. his family had immigrated to America, and integrity and piety. Asbury was not one to reflected the state’s society. eral churches and the Boards of Bethel Road, Ware Shoals, SC 29694; or to DaVita tery Fund, c/o Mickey Crook, 1053 Chappells Hwy., Men, there are studies available for you, as well. by 1779, O’Kelly had become an itiner- be scared of any man; but he bent before But as time passed, the state Missions of the denominations Dialysis of Greenwood, 109 Overland Drive, Green- Saluda, SC 29138. Check out the resources listed below by Tony Evans, ant preacher assigned to New Hope, N.C., the fury of the fiery Virginian. The situation saw the growth of more cities and interested. wood, SC 29646. Rev. Griffith is survived by his wife, Priscilla Johnny Hunt and Dennis Swanberg. where Francis Asbury first became ac- was especially delicate, because Thomas towns, and particularly in the Up- Second, That a commission be Mr. Baird is survived by his wife, Judy Williams Griffith, three sons and daughter. Each of these studies will encourage a more mean- quainted with him and was quite impressed Coke had been lining up with O’Kelly in country, the rise of textiles. And appointed from this Conference Baird, two sons and a daughter. ingful relationship and understanding of God. with this young minister of the Gospel. favor of a General Conference. Coke wrote the church evolved along with the to confer with a similar com- Mabel Guyton Parrott Yet from the very beginning, O’Kelly to O’Kelly on May 4, 1791, in support say- society. mission from other evangelical Logan Barnhouse GREENWOOD – Mabel Guyton Parrott, widow of Women’s Ministry was associated with dissident movements. ing, “Oh, be firm, be very firm, and very Much has been written about bodies of the State to bring before TAYLORS – Logan Barnhouse, son of the Rev. the Rev. Glenn E. Parrott, died July 13, 2013. Embraced by God: Seven Promises for Every At the conference held in 1779, at Broken cautious, and very wise, and depend upon a the rise of the textile industry in the Manufacturers’ Association Marsha Bentley Roberts, died July 24, 2013. Rev. A graveside service was held July 22 at Forest Woman (DVD1314WM=). Author: Mason, Babbie. 8 Back Church, Fluvanna County, Va., he ap- faithful friend.” the South, and it was without a of South Carolina the above Roberts is a member of the S.C. Annual Conference Lawn Memorial Park. Memorials may be made to sessions, 15 min. each/leader’s guide/participant guide/ proved the raising of the issue of ordination The same day Coke prepared a circular doubt one of the most signifi- outlined proposition at its next of The United Methodist Church. Wesley Commons, 1110 Marshall Road, Green- preview bk/2012. by the American preachers (none of whom on issues to be faced at the General Con- cant changes in our state in the session. wood, SC 29646; or to Grace UMC, 42 E. Main St., In this study, Babbie Mason helps women of all at the time were ordained). ference. In it he listed five points: 1. The decades after the Civil War and Child Labor Williamston, SC 29697. ages and walks of life to discover the height, depth and Lucy Eleanor Waldrop Boozer “James O’Kelly – Methodist Maver- abolition of the arbitrary aristocracy. 2. The Reconstruction. Many textile WHEREAS, we have heard Mrs. Parrott is survived by her two grandsons. breadth of God’s great love and acceptance. Drawing PICKENS – Lucy Eleanor Waldrop Boozer, widow ick,” by Frederick Abbott Norwood, states: investing of the nomination of the presiding workers came to the mills from with pleasure the address on child upon her own journey, she equips women to embrace of the Rev. Matthew Evans, died July 26, 2013. What part he played is not known. When elders in the conferences of the districts. 3. the mountains and the country- labor by Dr. John Porter Hollis; God’s unfailing love as they understand and claim sev- A memorial service will be held Sept. 22 at Grace Rev. Richard Edward Seignious this threatened schism was healed, he was The limitation of the districts to be invested side, and the changes in their and en biblical promises, with a final session sending them United Methodist Church. SPARTANBURG – The Rev. not present at the conference, did not sign in the general conference. 4. An appeal al- lives were dramatic. The Meth- WHEREAS, the employment onward with the challenge to live loved. Age: YAS Mrs. Boozer is survived by her two daughters Richard Edward Seignious, the document assuring unity, and did not lowed each preacher on the reading of the odist Church felt it needed to be of children of tender age is a seri- Her Restless Heart: A Woman’s Longing for Love and son. a retired member of the S.C. receive an appointment. The next year, station. 5. A general conference of at least present to minister to the new ous menace to the future citizen- and Acceptance (DVD1319WM=) Author: Cameron, Annual Conference of The however, he was back on the list and gave two-thirds of the preachers as a check upon workers, and in many cases, the ship of South Carolina; and Barbara. 6 sessions, 10 min. each/leader’s guide/par- Stan Garrison United Methodist Church, Asbury a promise “to join heartily in our everything. conference’s Board of Missions WHEREAS, the premature toil ticipant’s guide/2013. CAPE CORAL, Fla. – Stan Garrison, father of died July 19, 2013. connexion.” Coke stood with O’Kelly in preference worked to support these mill of children disintegrates fami- Based on a novel by acclaimed Christian fiction Dawn Stroop, died Aug. 13, 2013. Mrs. Stroop is Prior to his retirement in At the Christmas Conference in 1784, for a General Conference over a Council. churches financially. lies and “depreciates the human author Barbara Cameron, “Her Restless Heart” is the the wife of the Rev. Kevin Stroop, pastor of the 1997, Rev. Seignious served James O’Kelly was voted an elder. In early This does not mean, however, that Coke The 1910 Annual Conference, stock”; story of an Amish woman caught between the tradi- Smoak Charge, Ruffin. the Folly Beach-St Andrews, 1790, Asbury writes in his journal of a letter would support O’Kelly in his attack on the meeting in Charleston, passed Resolved, That this Confer- Seignious tions of her faith and the pull of a different life. As she A memorial service was held Aug. 31 at Calvary Fort Lawn, Columbia- he had received from O’Kelly demanding bishops’ appointive power. So it was that, two resolutions relating to the ence go on record as heartily struggles with her restless heart and seeks to find her Wesleyan Church, Bethlehem, Pa. Epworth Memorial, Elloree, Spartanburg-St. Paul, that Asbury throttle down his authority for on the second day of the General Confer- growing number of S.C. Meth- favoring the program of the South place in the world, she finds herself faced with difficult Memorials may be made to Grace UMC, GED Gaffney-Buford Street, Sumter-Aldersgate, Dillon- a year or else meet opposition. “He makes ence, the man from Virginia made his odists who were working in the Carolina Child Labor Committee. choices in love and in life. Program, 13 SE 21st Place, Cape Coral, FL 33990; Main Street, Laurens-First and James Island-Betha- heavy complaints,” wrote Asbury in his historic motion. After the bishop appoints textile industry. One related to the Second, That we memorialize This eight-session Bible study draws upon the theme or to Hope Hospice, 2430 Diplomat Pkwy. E., Cape ny charges. Journal, “about my power, and bids me stop the preachers at conference to their several support of the work of the church the General Assembly of South of the heart’s restlessness and the longing for satisfac- Coral, FL 33909. Funeral services were held July 2 at John Wesley for one year, or he must use his influence circuits, if. anyone thinks himself injured itself, and the conference sought Carolina to carefully consider this tion and fulfillment to explore the Bible’s answer to the Mr. Garrison is survived by his four sons and two UMC, Charleston, with burial in Live Oak Memori- against me. Power! Power!” by the appointment, he shall have liberty help from mill owners and man- question, and that it give us such universal human need for love. The study will equip daughters. al Gardens. Memorials may be made to John Wesley Asbury desired a strong centralized to appeal to the conference and state his agers in supporting their work. laws as will decrease as far as and encourage women as they seek to know God’s UMC, 626 Savannah Hwy., Charleston, SC 29407; control over the preachers in America, but objections; and if the conference approve The other called for stronger laws possible the evils of child labor. plan for their lives and find satisfaction for the long- or to Hospice of the Carolina Foothills, 130 Forest O’Kelly believed in a congregational form his objections, the bishop shall appoint him to prevent child labor, which was Third, That the Secretary of Cora Lee Gainey Gatling ing of their restless hearts. Just as Jesus used stories Glen Road, Columbus, NC 28722. of church government. The same unbend- to another circuit. commonly practiced in the mills. this Conference be instructed to KINGSTREE – Cora Lee Gainey Gatling, sister of (parables) to teach important principles, inspirational Rev. Seignious is survived by his wife, Betty ing resistance was apparent at the meeting The cogent arguments of those who op- Cotton Mill Commission forward copies of these resolu- the Rev. Hayes T. Gainey, died July 29, 2013. Rev. fiction can open readers to greater understanding of Jean Seignious, and four daughters. of the Virginia conference in June, where posed the motion, on grounds that the pro- WHEREAS, after close and tions to the proper authorities of Gainey is the pastor of Edisto Fork United Method- themselves and spiritual themes. Age: YAS. O’Kelly led the fight and forced the rejec- posal would be unworkable, add confusion intimate contact with conditions the South Carolina Legislature. ist Church, Cope. tion of a Council. In his “Author’s Apol- to confusion, and worse confound injustice, in our mill districts, we con- At its 1911 session, the Annual Funeral services were held Aug. 2 at Faith UMC. Rev. Charles Ernest Summey Jr. Men’s Ministry ogy,” O’Kelly states, all except two out of were so well put that O’Kelly’s support- clude that we can not suppose Conference endorsed the work of Mrs. Gatling is survived by her husband, Wayne SIMPSONVILLE – The Rev. Kingdom Man (DVD1222MN=). Author: Evans, 21, he reports, voted against not only the ers, who resorted to personal attacks and the establishment of proper and the Rev. D. E. Camak in found- S. Gatling, two daughters, three stepdaughters, a son Charles Ernest Summey Jr., Tony. 2 DVDs/6 sessions, 30 min. each/member bk proposed revisions but against the whole emotional displays, could not carry the day. permanent machinery on a basis ing the Textile Industrial Institute and two stepsons. a member of the S.C. Annual with leader’s guide/bk/2012. plan of a Council. “Then answered Francis And so, after the last, exhausting evening, of the revenue derived from the to help educate the state’s textile Conference of The United This study is designed to empower men to exer- and said, ‘Ye have all spoken out of one when the vote went against him, O’Kelly members themselves, because workers. Supported by the Board Bertie Mae Lewis Golightly Methodist Church, died July cise the God-given dominion they were created for mouth. Henceforth, ye are all out of the went away, in spite of several attempts to of the frequent changes of these of Missions, with the encourage- INMAN – Bertie Mae Lewis Golightly, grandmoth- 27, 2013. by giving them a Kingdom understanding, vision and union.’” avoid a break. members from mill to mill; and ment of the Conference Board er of the Rev. Scott Gilmer, died Aug. 8, 2013. Rev. Rev. Summey served perspective on their identity and responsibilities along O’Kelly professed to be astonished that Soon the O’Kellyites were brought WHEREAS, the properly of Education, TII proved to be Gilmer is the pastor of Gravely Memorial United the Harmony, Ware Shoals; with how to become a man who rules his world well. “we were all expelled the union, by the together in congregations under the name manned church is a commercial a highly successful ministry. Its Methodist Church, Spartanburg. Summey Pelzer-Beulah; Covenant As- Our culture has redefined manhood by emasculat- arbitrary voice of one man.” He admits Republican Methodist Church; it was so- as well as moral asset of the story is wonderfully told in the Funeral services were held Aug. 11 at Inman sociate; and Trinity, Green- ing men through a repositioning of the role. Men are that Asbury agreed to appoint the men to called because of the current popularity mills; and book “Common Ties: A History Mills Baptist Church, with burial in Roselawn Me- ville, charges before being placed on incapacity portrayed as weak, self-serving and unfocused. The their stations, “but no regard was paid to of republican politics in Virginia, where WHEREAS, the lack of funds of Textile Industrial Institute, morial Gardens. leave in 2012. Bible clearly communicates that man was created to O’KELLY.” Nicholas Snethen set the record the movement was centered. The loss of has prevented in a large measure Spartanburg Junior College, and Memorials may be made to Inman Mills Baptist Memorials may be made to the National Brain exercise dominion over the various areas of his life, straight in his “Reply to the Apology,” con- membership to the Methodist Episcopal the securing of efficient ministers Spartanburg Methodist College,” Church Building Fund, 22 B St., Inman, SC 29349. Tumor Society, 55 Chapel St., Suite 200, Newton, taking responsibility for himself and others entrusted cluding that “not one single circumstance Church was thought to be as much as a fifth for the churches already estab- by Dr. Katherine Davis Cann, a Mrs. Golightly is survived by her daughter and MA 02458; or to Trinity UMC, 2703 Augusta St., to his care. When a man functions within the principles as therein related can be substantiated.” All of the membership (about 20,000). The new lished; and professor of history at SMC. son. Greenville, SC 29605. of biblical manhood, those around him benefit from his the men got their appointments, including church was to give laymen more rights and WHEREAS, the time is come As Methodists in S.C., we can Rev. Summey is survived by his wife, Julie J. leadership and care. Age: YAS O’Kelly. But Snethen admits that Asbury to put all preachers on an equal basis. when the necessity is upon us be proud that we as a church have Summey, daughter and son. The Man Code (DVD1236MN=) Author: Swanberg, Rev. John Patrick Griffith “probably said some things, which upon The modern-day denomination is the to place in these fields the best adapted to changes in our society Dennis. 2 DVDs/6 sessions, 23-34 min./leader’s guide/ SALUDA – The Rev. John Eunice Horne Williamson reflection he did not justify.” United Church of Christ. talent the church can secure, with and have taken stands to correct field manual/2012. Patrick Griffith, a retired GEORGETOWN – Eunice Horne Williamson, In Robert Paine’s “Life and Times of O’Kelley’s passion for democracy in a view to the permanent better- economic and social problems “The Man Code” is a powerful tool to help men re- member of the S.C. Annual widow of the Rev. Jennings F. Williamson, died William McKendree,” he writes: Late in the Methodist Church affairs is directly respon- ment of the operatives from a when we’ve seen them. organize their thoughts and revolutionize their lives by Conference of The United Aug. 3, 2013. fall O’Kelly called his preachers together in sible for the fact that modern Methodism is spiritual, moral, and intellectual Stone is the archivist for the learning to form meaningful relationships, starting with Methodist Church, died July Funeral services were held Aug. 4 at Goldfinch an irregular meeting at which they agreed governed by its General Conference, rather standpoint: S.C. Conference of The United God and branching out from there. Age: YAS. 29, 2013. Funeral Home, Beach Chapel, with graveside to ignore the second session of the Council than a council appointed by its bishops. The Resolved, That we appeal to Methodist Church, as well as ar- The S.C. Conference Resource Center is your con- Prior to his retirement in services held Aug. 5 at Sunset Memorial Park, and send delegates. In the following year effect of this first schism has reverberated the administration of the mills to chivist for Wofford College. Read nection to VHS tapes, DVDs and musicals. We are here 1994, Rev. Griffith served Bennettsville. Memorials may be made to Epworth at the Virginia Conference he secured the throughout Methodist history. appropriate to the salaries of the his blog at http://blogs.wofford. to serve your church family. To reserve resources, call Griffith the Union-St. John, Pomaria, Children’s Home, 2900 Millwood Ave., Columbia, suspension of the Council until the meeting Huggins pastors St. John UMC, pastors of the different denomina- edu/from_the_ archives/ 888-678-6272 or visit www.umcsc.org/resourcecenter. Upper Richland, Butler SC 29205. of the anticipated General Conference. An- Sumter. Circuit, Bethany-Zoar, Victor and Plum Branch She is survived by her two sons and daughter. Page 30, September 2013 District & Local News Advocate Advocate District & Local News Page 31, September 2013

Charleston District June 1 to Rebecca and Jim Edens and Idea Exchange Congratulations to the Rev. and Mrs. big brother Joe, members of Lyttleton Larry Rodeffer on the birth of their Street UMC, Camden. Rev. Huggins is grandson. Aiden Paul Sanders was born the pastor of St. John UMC, Sumter. Celebration of summer Aug. 6. Rev. Rodeffer is the pastor of Unity United Methodist Church, Union, is located them to be exact. Flyers were carried door to door, Smyrna UMC, Moncks Corner. Orangeburg District in the Excelsior community of Union County in the shopping done and preparations made. One hundred Bethany UMC, Summerville, will Trinity UMC, Bamberg, is doing to Spartanburg District. It began as a reading room, a hamburgers and 150 hot dogs were ready for the grill. kick-off its eighth annual Autumn Tea prepare for Back to School activities. place to socialize with neighbors and get to know Saturday morning came as cloudy and overcast. Room and Gift Shop/Fresh Market The Vital Congregations Team served them. Soon an idea was formed, a dream came true, Tents were put up, chairs and tables put in place, grills Sept. 30 and will run until Oct. 11, breakfast to the teachers and staff of the and the church was founded. set up, coolers loaded, chili warmed and the list goes except Oct. 6. Lunch will be served community schools The Sunday before The neighborhood has changed since then, and the on. Soon the sun was out, and so were the people! The daily from 11:30 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. school starts, the church held two spe- mill around which the neighborhood was formed has neighbors came from all directions. They ate, shared The event will feature crafts by mem- cial blessings: one for the children and closed and been torn down. The older people have stories, laughed and had second helpings. They were bers of Bethany as well as fresh baked their book bags and one for the teach- passed on, and the children have grown up and moved gracious, signing the guest book, and said how great breads and pastries daily. There will be ers, administrators and staff. away. It is a more transitory neighborhood now, with the food was. They took the “Upper Rooms” and homemade canned preserves and other Beulah UMC, Sandy Run, will hold some people moving in and out often – a diverse other literature placed outside for them. By the end of homemade goodies. For the past seven St. Paul’s Waccamaw UMC ‘Peach Festival’ its Labor Day Festival Sept. 2 from people, but yet still good people. the day, new friends were made. years, this mission program has donated St. Paul’s Waccamaw UMC, Pawleys Island, recently celebrated its annual Peach 10:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Barbecue plates The Rev. Bob Allen, pastor, introduced to the The congregation of Unity UMC is still striving to nearly $250,000.00 to local and global Festival, a peachy day of food, faith and fun. Hundreds sampled delicious home- will be available for eat-in or carry-out. missions. The Tea Room and Gift Shop/ made peach desserts including pies, cobblers, jams and peach cupcakes. They also congregation the idea of a community meal in order to Everyone in the church pitched in to help. carry on the principles and ideas first formed in the enjoyed a silent auction, along with lively games and activities for children and youth, A garage sale and bake sale will also be socialize and get to know the neighbors again. So the reading room more than 100 years ago. Fresh Market has served nearly 21,000 including the popular dunking booth. The Midway Fire Department near the church held. For tickets, contact the church at idea of a Celebration of Summer began. The church everyone in the church would need to work – and they They are doing this with joyful hearts and a loving meals in its 7 years of operation. also held an open house and supported the festival. All proceeds, an estimated 803-794-0783. would feed the neighborhood, which was quite an did. spirit. $10,000, supported local missions including Habitat, JOY School, the Outreach Farm, Tara Hall, Street Reach and Tidelands Community Hospice – 12 in all. undertaking for such a small membership. This meant Hamburger patties were made by hand, 100 of – Submitted by Carolyn Kirby Matthews Columbia District Rock Hill District Columbia District will have its Pleasant Hill UMC, Indian Land, is church leader training event earlier this their daughter. Darralyn J. McClam was grandchild. Addison Eilidh Keir was taking applications for vendors/crafters Rock Hill UMW help Wallace year. Leadership Development Train- born Aug. 12. Rev. McClam is the pas- born July 24. Rev. MacKeil is the pas- for their Fall Festival, set for Oct. 26. With the help from Mount Holly UMC, Rock ing will be held Nov. 17, from 3-5:30 tor of Mars Bluff Charge, Florence. tor of First UMC, Laurens. For more information or for an applica- Hill, offering use of their church bus, 13 United p.m. at Epworth Children’s Home. The Rehoboth UMC, Leesville, will hold tion, contact Betty Morin at 803-980- Methodist Women of the Rock Hill District took a Family Fun Day Sept. 28 from 9 a.m.- a one-day mission trip to Wallace Family Life 12 Columbia District Advance Special Greenwood District 6716 or [email protected]. Center, Bennettsville, July 11. Their mission Ministries and the ministry of Epworth Congratulations to the Rev. Judy 2 p.m. Food, fellowship, games, kid Applications will be taken until Oct. 18. was to take much-needed book bags filled with Children’s Home will be highlighted Hames on the birth of her second grand- activities, vendor sales and much more Space is limited. supplies that the children would need to start with a Prayer Walk at 3 p.m. and will be daughter. Ruby Grace DeRosa was born will be available. school. While there, Wallace Director Corina followed training sessions. Aug. 9 to Joe and Debby DeRosa. Rev. Esaw gave the women a tour of their facility, Spartanburg District with a chance to visit each class and talk to the Hames is the pastor of St. Paul UMC, Hartsville District Congratulations to the Rev. Jane Jen- teachers and children. Wallace is one of the Florence District Saluda. Congratulations to the Rev. Bob and kins on the birth of her first grandson. UMW’s five state missions that they support Congratulations to the Rev. Darren Congratulations to the Rev. Alice and Rachel Huggins on the birth of their Andrew Richard Lawson was born Aug. with pledges and other assistance every the and LaTisha McClam on the birth of John MacKeil on the birth of their first grandson. James Carter Edens was born year. At far left, Rock Hill District President 1 to Diana and Lee Lawson. Clara Horton works with a child. At near left, women unload the bus packed with supplies. Zoan hosts huge community giveaway, fun day LORIS – Five years ago, at Zoan 10. ful event in the four years that we had to our church,” said Dr. Gause Smith, Mount Dearborn UMC to celebrate centennial United Methodist Church in the Marion This year’s free event featured been doing it in terms of people coming member of Zoan. GREAT FALLS – Mount Dearborn United Methodist were some artifacts from its earlier days. Among them Then, a revival will be held Oct. 7-9 with the Rev. District, members were having a Bible three giant inflatables for the children; Church will celebrate its centennial in October, and all were a burned Bible, a burned copy of the Advocate Jason Everson, another former pastor, leading. study at the first of the summer. hamburgers, hot dogs, chips, sodas and are welcome to join in the festivities. and a copy of the Book of Discipline. Any former members or pastors who have any All of a sudden there was a desserts; and a massive giveaway event Mount Dearborn was organized in 1913. The build- The church plans to celebrate its centennial Oct. artifacts or other information may send them to the cool breeze that blew through the with clothes for infants to adults (some ing burned in a fire on Christmas morning, 1934, and 6 with the Rev. Evelyn Middleton, former pastor, church at P.O. Box 246, Great Falls, S.C. 29055. room. One of the women in the small brand-new) and school supplies. group said while this Bible study was Zoan has not had any trouble rais- Read it. rebuilt in 1936. preaching. A songfest and communion will be held Sallie Hudson chairs the centennial committee. The Recently, a cornerstone was removed, and inside that Sunday night. Rev. David Ussery is pastor. All are welcome. great, she thought the church needed ing money to buy the food, get school to do something for the surrounding supplies or finance these projects in community. That was the birth of the any way. The Gideons also play a role; Heritage Sunday at John Wesley UMC: history and a look ahead church’s annual giveaway, which is stationed at the exits to the Fellowship Use it. now in its fourth year. Hall, they place a Bible in every school By Fred Bostic Jr. 35:7) and the Israelites’ memorial at Episcopal Church. They stayed at that to the present structure. She envisioned This year, Zoan started a Community supply bag that the children take out Gilgal (Joshua 4). Second, it is used location for approximately four years. a facility that would provide for train- Fun Day, but it got rained out the first and give one to any adult who wants A speech given during Heritage Sun- for worship, prayer, weddings, funerals Unsatisfied with the conditions on Ann ing in wholesome activities. as well as time. So it scheduled the Community one. People are also in the sanctuary to day’s worship services at John Wesley and other functions that are important Street, the congregation took steps to adequate classroom space for the chil- Connect. Fun Day and the Fourth Annual Give- offer prayer with anyone who needs it. United Methodist Church, Greenville, to the membership. The members of erect a building more suitable for the dren, young adults and seniors at John away to happen on the same day, Aug. “This was perhaps our most success- opened with statements extolling this John Wesley have come to believe it is purpose of worship. They wanted a Wesley and the Greenville community year’s theme, “The Power of Place: a place where Christians can encounter church building more suitable for the in general. The Contemporary Mission of Heritage God in a special way. delivery of ministries that were needed The idea of erecting a building for Landmarks and Historic Sites,” John That being true, the membership has in a growing community. Eventually, a the expansion of ministries was studied Wesley’s standing among historic sites, decided to make this location a place site was found and a new church build- and found to be solid. Church lead- highlights from church history and a to remember, a place where birthdays, ing was erected at the corner of Choice ers at the time were encouraged and Zoan vision of a former church member. baptisms, family gatherings, fellowship and Cleveland streets. The congregation established an interest bearing educa- provided The theme for Heritage Sunday 2013 and festivals of various sorts are held. occupied this site until Oct. 21, 1900. tional building account for the purpose free hot dogs, reminds the church that 40 Heritage Are we going to make John Wesley a Greenville Academy, later renamed of raising enough money to build a ham- Landmarks have been designated by the place of testimony to the goodness of Sterling High School, was established facility. The account lay dormant for burgers, General Commission on Archives and God? Will we make John Wesley a wit- at the Choice Street site of Silver Hill several years; however, in light of the drinks History and 17 Historic Sites have been ness in the community where Christ is Methodist Episcopal Church. The reconstituted study committee’s report, and designated by the S.C. Annual Confer- shared? Will the congregation establish foundations of the present structure at now seems to be the time to take steps desserts to all. 1. Participate in the “Five for $25 Subscrip- member to come speak at your church. ence on Archives and History. door-to-door ministry, fishing clubs, East Court and Falls Street were laid in toward fulfilling a vision once heralded tions” program. 6. Steer people to the Advocate’s website One of those sites is John Wesley. boy and girl scouts, shopping sprees 1899, and the sanctuary was dedicated by church leaders. An appeal to the con- 2. Participate in “Free Advocate for New (www.advocatesc.org) or to the Advocate’s Does the location of John Wesley etc.? Will we continue to encourage in 1903. It was listed in the National gregation for funds to be placed in the Members.” Facebook or Twitter page (@advocatesc) UMC, in downtown Greenville, gener- and provide for personal testimony, Register on Jan. 20, 1978. account was made during the Heritage 3. Enroll your congregation in an online or 7. Advertise a job opening, church service, ate any power or give any advantage intensive Bible study, prayer vigils, John Wesley has since undergone Sunday services. print “Advocate Church Plan” and receive business or event in our pages. to its people, events and prominence pilgrimages and a food pantry for the major renovation, restoration and John Wesley is blessed to have discounted pricing. 8. Send the Advocate your church’s news, to the awareness of God’s will? The homeless? refurbishment. In addition, about 35 an opportunity to impact the lives of 4. Encourage your members to buy an events or high-res photos. Deadline is the answer is yes, it does. First, it provides Yes, we will. years ago, Ella Mae Logan, a faithful hundreds of people for years to come. individual subscription to the Advocate. 10th of every month for the next month’s a sacred place that has been dedicated In 1866, John Wesley’s congrega- church member and respected commu- Members thank God for what he has 5. Invite the Advocate editor or a board edition. Email [email protected]. for holy purposes similar to Jacob’s tion met in a log cabin on Ann Street nity leader, envisioned an educational done and pray He will continue to posi- The event also featured a massive clothes The free event featured three giant inflata- www.advocatesc.org | [email protected] | 888-678-6272 pillar at Bethel (Genesis 28:16-17; under the name of Silver Hill Methodist building being erected on a site adjacent tively use the church to do His will. giveaway for infants to adults. bles for children. Page 32, September 2013 Seniors Advocate Advocate Seniors Page 33, September 2013 Wrinkles in Paradise GSP shows love for ‘Mrs. Alice’ New Light UMC member marks her 100th birthday Sallie Edna Jamison Young cel- high school. She taught herself how to Zelmarie Tyler) along with their two with special ceremony ebrated her 100th birthday May 31 with sew and was well-known in and around children. by Wanda Lane a birthday dinner celebration May 26 the Great Branch community for her Her home was the neighborhood CROSS – On July 7, Greater St. Paul at New Light United Methodist Church work. She continued to make clothing home. All the children wanted to stay at The tiniest bracelet United Methodist Church celebrated Life Center on Neeses Highway, for her family and friends until she was her house. one of its members long-time service Neeses. 85 years old. Young is also known and loved think it’s too small,” my father with sheepish expression, said, “I think to the church and community. More than 140 family members and At the age of 18, she married Ben- for her baked goods. She also raised said. it’s too small.” How tiny this bracelet Greater St. Paul held a special friends gathered at the celebration, in- jamin Young. After the birth of their chickens, tended to her garden, grew He smiled sheepishly at me was. He had been right. No wrist was appreciation ceremony in honor of cluding those as far away as California. first child, Bernice Young Kennerly, flowers (and still insists on watering over the top of his hopelessly fin- small enough to wear it. Alice Pickney. She was praised for Born May 31, 1913, Young is the they moved to Brooklyn, N.Y. While them), took care of her grandchildren Igerprinted glasses holding up the small Suddenly saddened, I salvaged the her work in Orangeburg School Dis- fourth of nine children born to Evander living in New York, they had two more and drove a car until the age of 85 (and silver band. “It fits my thumb. She is bracelet from the unused silver and tricts, the National Association for Jamison and Sallie Wallace. She was daughters, Minnie (deceased in infancy) never got a ticket). little and my thumb is big, but all-in- tucked it safely into my own jewelry the Advancement of Colored People born in the Great Branch community and Barbara Ann Young Johnson. After Along with her two living biologi- all, I think her wrist is bigger than my case. I would save it for Ainsley, and and the church. and attended Great Branch School. residing in New York for several years, cal children and the four children she thumb.” when she was older, I would give her Members said Pickney’s contribu- Pickney, 78, is escorted by her nephew, At the age of 13, she was responsible Young they returned to South Carolina where raised, she has 11 grandchildren, 30 The bracelet was for Ainsley, his the bracelet and tell her this story about tions to the community are innumer- Myron, during the ceremony. for raising her five younger siblings they reared four of Benjamin’s cousin’s great-grandchildren, and 11 great- great-granddaughter, on her first birth- her “Papa.” able, and several people from the while her mother and father worked. She is the only child who did not finish children (Bessie, George, Jeanette and great-grandchildren. day. He slipped the tiny circle on his But fate intervened. My niece gave community and work were on hand now while she’s able to “appreciate thumb and held up his hand for me to birth prematurely, and little Jillian to celebrate her. the appreciation.” see. entered the world at two pounds, 14 Over the years, Pickney has been Members said it was a “lovely White House UMC “Nobody is that little,” he said, and ounces, 13 weeks early. Oh, so tiny and very active with Sunday school, ceremony” that everyone was proud we both burst out laughing. fragile, she clung to life. the United Methodist Women, lay to be a part of, and that made Mrs. to mark 225 years with Shaking his head good-naturedly And then I remembered the bracelet. service and Annual Conference, to Pickney realize just how much her and smiling at me, he said, “I think The tiniest bracelet. The bracelet that name a few. Greater St. Paul felt they contributions mean to her commu- I’ll try again.” The littlest of bracelets, was too small for anyone to wear. The should honor Pickney for her service nity. special service Oct. 6 sculpted and complete, was returned to little bracelet that was Daddy’s “mis- the resource pile of silver. take.” Orangeburg District superintendent Yebuah to preach Daddy did try again and this time he Now I pondered. Was Daddy’s tiniest created a bracelet the right size. It ar- bracelet over which we had chortled, ORANGEBURG – “Methodism has lesser circuit rider than Francis Asbury rived in time for Ainsley’s party. As the an error – or had he been led by the taken this part of the country, and it preached from the towering oak at others marveled at the gleaming band Unseen Hand in which he believed so flourishes luxuriantly, like some flower- White House. of silver, I remembered the makeshift profoundly? ing oak.” So wrote the young William That section of the trunk bearing the worktable where Daddy with lovely I think God was present; for now, the May Wightman, pastor of the White scar where the board was attached is on white hair and shaking hands had plied littlest bracelet graces the tiniest wrist House United Methodist Church and 25 display in the church. his craft, bonding generations with skill perpetuating a legacy of love. other preaching points in 1829. The 115-member congregation and love. Lane is a member of Church of the White House UMC was founded in worships in the third building, built Time passed, and Daddy succumbed Palms UMC in Bluffton, where she 1788 and, as Bishop Wightman wrote, in 1850. With the exception of a few to his multiple health problems. After serves as worship chair. She also writes “has braved the storms” of two centu- added features, including the choir loft his death, I sat at his card-table jewelry a senior life style column, “Wrinkles ries. and stained glass windows, the interior bench sifting through his supplies and in Paradise,” for The Island Packet in Wightman was not the only bishop of the sanctuary is the same as it was in unfinished pieces. The tiny bracelet was Hilton Head and has published a book to serve White House UMC. The first 1850. with the unused silver. I smiled remem- by the same title. She can be reached at native South Carolinian to be elected to White House UMC will celebrate bering the morning we spent together in [email protected], www.facebook. the episcopacy, William Capers, served its 225th anniversary Oct. 6 at 11 a.m. treasured father-daughter companion- com/WrinklesinParadise or www.twit- the church in 1812. Dr. Frederick N. Yebuah, Orangeburg ship and how we laughed when Daddy, ter.com/wrinklesthebook. Outside the old church stood an oak, District superintendent, will give the and when notable circuit riders were in sermon. the area the congregation adjourned to The Rev. Marie Ray and the con- the nearby tree. gregation extend an invitation to the A board was attached to the trunk service of worship and celebration and of the tree to serve as a pulpit. No lunch following the service.

Join us for our special events Dementia Series “Now What Do I Do” Sept. 10, Mary Alice Ingram Chapel, 2-4 p.m. Alzheimer’s Caregivers Support Meeting Sept. 11, Faulkner Hall, 4 p.m. 2100 Twin Church Road Men’s Lunch and Learn “Cyber Florence, SC Financial World” 843-664-0700 Sept. 18, Faulkner Hall, Noon Genesis Rehab Seminar Patio Homes • Independent Living “Medication Safety” Apartments • Assisted Living Suites • Sept. 24, 11 a.m. ADVERTISE IN THIS SPACE Alzheimer’s Care Center Monthly Wine & Cheese Sept. 30, Faulkner Hall, 5 p.m. [email protected] | 803-786-9486 ext. 338 www.methodist-manor.com Visit us online: AdvocateSC.org Page 34, September 2013 Upcoming Events Advocate Advocate International Bible School Lessons Page 35, September 2013

September Oct. 6 – World Communion Sunday Hispanic Heritage Month Oct. 6 – Centennial Celebration, Mount Covenants and creation Dearborn UMC, Great Falls. The Sept. 2 – Labor Day Rev. Evelyn Middleton, preacher. Sept. 2 – Labor Day Festival, Beulah by the Rev. Candice Y. Sloan Oct. 7-9 – Revival, Mount Dearborn UMC, Sandy Run. 8:30 a.m.-1:30 UMC, Great Falls. The Rev. Jason father-in-law by digging up the potatoes ing another voice, one that encouraged fact that the “human heart is evil from p.m. Barbecue, garage sale, bake Sept. 1 Everson, leader. in his garden before they should have them to ignore God’s warning, the youth” (Genesis 8:21, NRSV). sale. 803-794-0783 God Creates been harvested. I am saddened by the couple took that bite. From that moment Think about those times when it Lesson Scripture: Psalm 104:5-9, 24- Oct. 11-13 – Children’s Sabbath times students “help” each other by on they knew that what they had done seems your world has been destroyed. Sept. 3-5 – Bishop’s School of Ministry, 30 sharing answers on tests and/or papers. was not Good. Guilt, fear and shame Where have you seen God at work Springmaid Resort, Myrtle Beach. Background Scripture: Psalm 104 Oct. 11-13 – Family and Friends Week- Let’s face it – there is “helping” and sent the couple into hiding. bringing new life out of devastation? Bonnie Speas, 803-786-9486. Key Verse: Psalm 104:24, “O Lord, end, Columbia College. 803-786- there is helping. God, however, would not allow how manifold are your works! In Sept. 6-8 – Tri-District (Florence, Harts- 3663 or columbiasc.edu/osa. In today’s lesson God, who has care- them to stay hidden. God, in love, wisdom you have made them all; Sept. 29 ville, Marion) Spiritual Growth From Aiken to Honduras, with love fully shaped the man and blown life sought them out. There would be pain- Oct. 13 – Children’s Sabbath the earth is full of your creatures.” Retreat, Springmaid Beach. A team from Trinity UMC, Aiken, was one of six teams who took a mission trip to into him, realizes that something is not ful consequences for their actions, but God Scatters the Nations When I ask students in my Introduc- Honduras this summer. The trip was sponsored by the Honduras Agape Foundation, right – this man is alone and needs help. by God’s grace they were granted life Lesson Scripture: Genesis 11:1-9 based in Aiken. The group consisted of (from left) Bill Bengston, Daniel Reyes (local Oct. 14 – Columbus Day tion to Old Testament class to describe Sept. 7 – Spirit Singers performance, God then gets busy creating all kinds of outside the garden. God even provided Background Scripture: Genesis 11:1-9 Trinity UMC, West Columbia, 7 translator), Tommy Thompson, John Yeager, Bonnie Nowak, Megan Wood, Dane creation, most recall how God created animals, looking for one that can help them with clothes to protect and com- Key Verse: Genesis 11:8, “So the Lord p.m. Wood, Naomi Beers, Kathy Wood, Roxanne Turnipseed and Dan Wood. They were at Oct. 18-20 – Lake Junaluska’s Choir the earth in six days, resting on the Quimistan, Honduras, where they slept and ate. Music Weekend. www.lake the man. fort them. scattered them abroad from there seventh; or how God shaped Adam out junaluska.com/choirmusic. But like that sweet little 2-year-old, When was the last time you played over the face of all the earth, and Sept. 8 – Work Day Offering for of the dust of the earth and breathed life these animals were not much help. “Hide and Seek” with God? What were they left off building the city.” Epworth Children’s Home Sept. 15 – Youth Service Fund Sunday ence, Chapin UMC. better2013@ into him and then took Adam’s rib to Oct. 20 – Laity Sunday With each new animal to be named, you afraid God might find? Were you “So what’s wrong with building tall chapinumc.com create Eve; or some combination of the Sept. 8 – Spirit Singers performance, Sept. 20 – Alston Wilkes Society Home- the man’s workload grew heavier and able to detect God’s grace in the situa- buildings?” the displaced New Yorker two stories. Virginia Wingard Memorial UMC, less Veterans Program’s Third Sept. 28 – Family Fun Day, Rehoboth Oct. 20 – Eben Taylor Lecture Series, 7 the aloneness became more and more tion? asked one day in class. When we recognize that others have Columbia, morning worship. Annual Car and Bike Show, 10 UMC, Leesville, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. p.m., Cayce UMC, Cayce. Bishop obvious. Having grown up in New York City, different creation stories, it is easy to a.m.-4 p.m. 803-799-2490. Will Willimon speaker. 803-794- What the man needed was someone he missed the towering landscape 3200. become defensive and argue long and Sept. 22 Sept. 9 – Spirit Singers performance, Sept. 30-Oct. 11 – Autumn Tea Room to help shoulder his burdens, a partner and the hustle and bustle of an active Broad Street UMC, Clinton, 7 p.m. Sept. 21 – The Big Day of Serving, 8 hard about how God created this earth. and Gift Shop, Bethany UMC, he could talk with, work with, even play An Everlasting Covenant social life. For this young man, the tall a.m.-4 p.m. $29. http://groupmis- Summerville, 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Oct. 25-27 – S.C. UMW Annual Meet- Psalm 104 reminds us that the “who” of with. And what the man needed, God Lesson Scripture: Genesis 9:8-17 buildings and the active city life, when Sept. 14 – Faith and Hope for Women siontrips.com/the-one-big-day-of- ing, Bethel UMC, Spartanburg creation is far more fascinating than the created. Background Scripture: Genesis 6:9- compared to the skyline and nightlife Conference, Salem UMC, Con- serving/locations/columbia-sc/ “how” of creation. October Oct. 26 – Asbury Hills Fall Festival, 10 From the side of the man, God cre- 9:28 of Spartanburg, seemed like a slice of way. Free. RSVP to 843-347-6752 And like the psalmist, when we focus or [email protected] Sept. 26 – “Better” leadership confer- Hispanic Heritage Month a.m. to 5 p.m. ated the woman and brought to the man Key Verse: Genesis 9:11, “I establish heaven. on the Creator, we are filled with awe a helper and a companion so that the my covenant with you, that never I suspect he regretted asking the and praise. man would never be lonely again. again shall all flesh be cut off by question after we spent the remainder As I write these words, many in the Over the centuries, we have lost sight the waters of a flood, and never of class talking about two aspects of Upstate have jokingly been searching of what it means to help one another again shall there be a flood to this story: God’s expectations and the for plans for building an ark. Places that and to provide loving relationships that destroy the earth.” desires of the people of Shinar. have “never” flooded are under water. ease our feelings of aloneness. We have Shortly after Noah and his family With each successive storm, roads Classified Advertisements allowed sin to separate us in ways that Nothing wakes a kid up quicker in disembarked, God said to them, “Be are washed away and trees are fall- isolate us from one another and keep us the morning than a rousing rendition fruitful and multiply, and fill the earth” ing. Some, sadly, have experienced the from helping and being helped by those of “Rise and Shine and Give God the (Genesis 9:1, NRSV). It had been the chaos that water can bring. Church Furnishings To place your ad, contact Allison today Positions Open God has created for us. Glory.” By the time you get to “the ani- same word God had given to human- The psalmist, too, knows of the at 888-678-6272 or [email protected]. What are your criteria for determin- mals they came in by twosies, twosies, kind in Genesis 1:28. destructive power of waters, yet he ac- Free Estimates Northside United Methodist Church in Green- ing who are “helpers” and who are true twosies,” those sleepy heads are up and God’s desire was that humankind knowledges God has tamed the waters, Classifed ads start at $19 per inch tall. ville, SC, is receiving resumés for the position of helpers? begging for you to stop. form families and communities that setting boundaries to contain them and NEW Steeple cleaning service Website ads are also available Director of Programs for Children’s Ministry. This For so long, we have sung cute little would thrive and cover the face of the building a foundation that cannot be songs, colored pictures of arks and earth. And given the genealogy that fol- (www.advocatesc.org). is a part time position. Salary will be determined New Pews • Pew Upholstering • Pew Refinishing • Pulpit according to experience and education. To shaken by them. The psalmist praises Sept. 15 rainbows, made amazing crafts, etc., lows the Noah story, it would seem that Furniture • Carpet • Steeples/Baptistries • Chime Systems receive a job description and/or submit your God for the majesty of this creation. Knowledge of Good and in Sunday school, VBS and children’s at first Noah’s descendants were being • Stained Glass • Classroom Furniture • Office Furniture • Deadlines are the 10th of the month Social Hall Furniture • Budget & Project Analysis • Project resumé please contact Rev. Don Brown at From the smallest creature of the micro sermons that we have trivialized the very fruitful and were spreading out for the following month’s paper. [email protected] biome to the giant Leviathan, God has Evil Management Lesson Scripture: Genesis 3:8b-17, story to the point where now as adults across the land. shaped and given purpose to creation 22-23 we dismiss this story of Noah and the The people who settled in the land Nu-Idea and in so doing has brought stability out Background Scripture: Genesis 3 Flood as just a children’s story. of Shinar, however, had other plans. of chaos. Nothing could be further from the They were not interested in what God Church Furnishings Key Verse: Genesis 3:22-23, “Then When the chaos of life threatens to Sumter, South Carolina the Lord God said, ‘See, the man truth. wanted. They wanted to make a name Part-Time Director of Music/Organist overwhelm us, it is good to remember 1-800-922-0424 has become like one of us, know- To put it bluntly, God was fed up for themselves. Trinity United Methodist Church, Charleston that God who breathes life into us, who www.nu-idea.com ing good and evil; and now, he with the violence exhibited by all that They wanted to build something sustains us with gifts of food, water and might reach out his hand and take God had created. Everything that God they could be proud of; something that “Serving South Carolina’s churches since 1921” all that this world has to offer, is the Trinity United Methodist Church, a historic downtown Charleston, also from the tree of life, and eat, had created, and at one time had pro- would make everyone admire, respect SC, congregation, seeks a trained musician to become Director of Music/ ruler of heaven and earth. and live forever’ – therefore the nounced good, had become corrupt and and even fear them. This “tower with its Pew Upholstering – Reversible Cushions Organist. This part-time position will open in mid-October 2013. Perhaps then we might sing with Lord God sent him forth from the violent. It is frightening to think of God top in the heavens” (11:4) would prove New Pews – Pew Refinishing Qualified candidates will have demonstrated excellence in playing the greater conviction and joy: “Praise God being so mad that God was willing to to them and others that they were right Audio/Video Systems garden of Eden, to till the ground organ as well as building, nurturing, and leading adult, children’s, and from whom all blessings flow! Praise www.churchinteriors.com from which he was taken.” unleash the waters that had been tamed there next to God. They wanted to be handbell choirs. God all creatures here below! Praise This was the time of year when play- at creation. It is terrifying to imagine gods. Key responsibilities: Direct the adult choir during Sunday worship, God above ye heavenly hosts! Praise weekly choir rehearsals, and special worship services. Grow and direct the ing “Hide and Seek” was at its best. the loss of both human and animal We may no longer try to build towers Father, Son and Holy Ghost!” children’s music ministry and handbell choir. Play the Hartman-Beaty pipe The evenings had begun to cool down, life. The devastation would have far to heaven, but unfortunately we still High Point, North Carolina organ for the Sunday 11:15 a.m. traditional service and for special worship and we could spend hours hiding up exceeded any natural disaster we have avoid following God’s will and fre- 1-800-289-7397 services during Lent, Holy Week, Easter morning, Christmas Eve, and as Sept. 8 and down the street, running from one seen on TV, and we do not want to think quently look for ways to bring glory to needed. Be available for funerals and weddings/rehearsals. Continue to neighbor’s yard to another’s until we about it. ourselves. nurture college student interest in our adult choir. Reach out to choirs, God’s Image: Male and were safe on base. Every kid on the Thankfully, for those of us who live Consider the ways in which you and soloists, and instrumentalists around the Southeast to sing/play at Trinity For Sale Female street came out to play. Even as the in such a violent and corrupt world, your church have tried building towers on occasion. Make disciples of Jesus Christ. Lesson Scripture: Genesis 2:18-25 sun set, we knew we were safe because God’s grace is stronger than God’s in the past. 2004 Ford E450, 25 passenger Church Bus. 6,600 Salary is commensurate with experience. Honorariums are typical for Background Scripture: Genesis 1-2; anger. Fortunately, God finds Noah, (Incidentally, we still had to tackle weddings and funerals. E-mail a resume, cover letter, and references to behind every window was a parent miles, Triton V-10 gasoline engine with 37 gallon 5:1-2 the one person on earth who walked the language issues in this story in the [email protected] or mail them to Trinity United watching out for us. Back then, the big- fuel tank. Tilt steering wheel w/cruise control. Key Verse: 2:18, “Then the Lord God Methodist Church, Attn: S/PPRC, 273 Meeting Street, Charleston, SC gest fear we had was not making it to humbly with God, and instructs him next class.) DVD system with flip down monitors. Adjustable said, ‘It is not good that the man 29401. base before we were found and having on how to save himself, his family and high back driver’s seat. Passenger seats are high should be alone; I will make him a the animals. Miraculously, Noah lis- Sloan is chaplain and director of back w/recliner and pillow cushion tops. Four to be It. helper as his partner.’” tens. Mercifully, after the deluge, God church relations at Spartanburg Meth- push out emergency windows. Trans-Air Dual A/C Adam and Eve were afraid for a I had to smile as I turned the corner system. Electric power entrance door. AM/FM/CD very different reason. They were hiding gathers the waters back up and places odist College and a member of the at the grocery store and saw a 2-year- radio. Rear luggage compartment w/ rear doors. from God because they had done the them within their boundaries. Compas- Spartanburg District Board of Church old “helping” her grandmother push the Many other options. $35,000. Contact the PUMC one thing God had asked them not to sionately, God offers up a covenant, a Location and Building and the Spartan- grocery cart. I remembered fondly the church office (8 a.m.-1 p.m.), 864-646-3355 or ARE YOU MOVING?? Please let us know your new address!! do – eat the fruit from the Tree of the promise – “never again.” Graciously, burg District Connectional Ministries time my boys (now men) “helped” my [email protected]. Knowledge of Good and Evil. Trust- God once more offers life despite the Team, Outreach. Page 36, September 2013 Other News Advocate

Rebuilding happily South Carolina Conference Ethnic Local Church ever after Concerns (ELCC) Offers First UMC hosts Marriage Encounter weekend Grants and Scholarships

First United Methodist Church, oriented weekend; group activities to Small Membership Clover, is inviting couples from all de- are not incorporated at this event. It is Congregations nominations to participate in Marriage simply a quiet and private weekend that Encounter, a weekend that will provide will give you time to concentrate on the time and privacy couples need to your spouse, and out of it learn more reconnect with their spouse. about each other and incorporating God The event will be held Sept. 6-8 at more into your marriage. To attend the The Hyatt Place on Tyvola, Charlotte, event, submit an application found at N.C. www.encounter.org. There is a $50 non- Marriage Encounter is a couples- refundable application fee.

The South Carolina Conference Ethnic Local Church Concerns (ELCC) Committee is pleased to announce the availability of grants and scholarship funds for racial-ethnic small membership churches in the South Carolina Annual Conference. These funds are available to assist ethnic local churches to “Make Disciples of Jesus Christ for the Transformation of the World,” beginning in their local church and local community.

The South Carolina Annual Conference values the gifts, contributions, heritage and traditions of ethnic local churches, and desires to build the capacity of these congregations to fulfill “God- sized” visions for God’s people. “Serving God by Serving Racial- Ethnic Ministries” in the South Carolina Annual Conference is the mandate of the SC Conference Ethnic Local Church Concerns (ELCC) Committee. Providing grant dollars to these congregations to do ministry is one way that the ELCC is working to assist racial- ethnic local churches in the South Carolina Annual Conference.

Funding guidelines and applications are available on the South Carolina Conference Website: www.umcsc.org Click on Ministries, then Advocacy, then ELCC. The grant application deadline is September 13, 2013 and should be submitted to the Conference Offices, 4908 Colonial Drive, Columbia, SC 29203, c/o Ms. Doris Seals. For more information, contact Doris Seals at (803) 786-9486 x 311 or Rev. Bernie Mazyck, at (843) 818-8012.

For scholarships, go to the same website and complete the clergy or laity application form. No need to call. If you are aware of an upcoming event, workshop, convention, etc., just complete the online application and send it in to: Pastor Carleathea M. Benson, 1201 Royal Summit Drive, Seneca SC 29678. Applications must be received at least two weeks in advance of the publicized registration deadline. All laity applications must be signed by the pastor.

Please note that with the acceptance of a grant and/or a scholarship award comes the responsibility of accountability. Therefore, we will require timely typed reports be in within 2 weeks of the conclusion of the event, and in some cases, the expectation will be that information learned at a training event will be shared at a district- wide event within a 12 month timeframe. It is our pleasure to be able to live out the ELCC Mandate to “TEACH: (Train, Educate, Affirm, Communicate and Heal).” Together we can show the world that “There is a More Excellent Way!”