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May/June 2005 open hearts, open minds, open doors. Volume 35 The people of The United Methodist Church Number 5 A wing and a prayer As ambassadors of faith, airport chaplains comfort travelers By John Shaughnessy stranded; they’re going to a funeral or to visit INDIANAPOLIS – The Rev. Yung Sheng someone who’s sick. Chen has just finished comforting an air- And they get stressed line employee struggling with her father’s out. We try to give them death when he sees an American soldier at help emotionally to get a ticket counter. over the tragedy they’re Striding across the crowded concourse facing.” at Indianapolis International Airport, Chen Spiritual and emo- approaches Army Staff Sgt. Bryan Mason, tional support also are who has just checked in for a flight that needed by people who will lead him back to Iraq. work there, says Rabbi As the 75-year-old volunteer airport Lew Weiss. chaplain listens, Mason explains he has tak- “It’s high stress at the en emergency leave to be at home with his airport with airlines go- wife, Angela, for the birth of their son, Jared ing bankrupt, people Michael. losing jobs and the se- Chen’s smile grows as the Noblesville curity issues,” says resident says his boy measured 21 inches Weiss, who also works and weighed 7 pounds, 11 ounces at birth. as a full-time chaplain Then Chen prays for the soldier and his for Clarian Health. “It’s family, asking God to bring them safely important to minister to together again. them. We offer services Indianapolis Star photo by Adriane Jaekle HEADS BOWED: Joining airport chaplain Yung Sheng Chen (in vest) in prayer are members of the Christman “I didn’t know airports do that,” a and counseling.” family – (clockwise, from left) Bill, Brian, Kath and Brian Jacob Christman II. The four were headed to Denver pleased Mason says. “He seems to be a very The Rev. Glenn from Indianapolis at Indianapolis International Airport. nice guy.” O’Connor, a Catholic Moments later, Chen walks into a small priest, and the Rev. Landrum Shields, a ried two airport makeshift chapel – an area marked by sym- Methodist minister, also are chaplains. Yet workers on a shuttle bols of Islam, Christianity, Judaism, Bud- Chen provides the program’s most consis- bus,” says the retired “We offer services and counseling.” dhism and Hinduism that reflect the inter- tent presence, spending six days a week at United Methodist – Airport Chaplain Yung Sheng Chen faith quality of the airport’s chaplaincy pro- the airport in a whirlwind ministry that minister with a laugh. gram. touches passengers and personnel in every “That’s where they In its 15th year, the program is starting part of the facility. met – on a shuttle bus that took the work- the offices of US Airways on the second an effort to recruit volunteers to supplement As he strolls through the concourses, ers from the parking lot to the airport. That floor of the airport. The room is locked when a staff that consists of a rabbi, two Meth- Chen wears a gold cross around his neck was the first time in my 58 years of minis- the chaplains aren’t on duty. The chapel has odist ministers, a Catholic priest and an and a red vest embroidered with the words, try I married someone on a bus.” an altar for services. There also are a prayer imam, a Muslim spiritual leader. “Airport Chaplain.” A small New Testa- Talk about the war in Iraq changes rug and the Koran, the sacred book of Is- The chaplains are talking with airport ment is tucked into a vest pocket. Chen’s nearly constant smile to a look of lam, for Muslims who want to pray. officials about having a greater presence as concern. He has comforted families as they On the office wall a small picture of a part of the $1 billion development sched- A Chen story watched loved ones leave for war. He has grieving Christ has been placed atop a uled to be finished in 2008. A chapel is part Nearly everyone at the airport has a Chen prayed with soldiers leaving to face the large poster showing the twin towers of of the design plans for expansion of the air- story. unknown. the World Trade Center in New York City. port, where about 2,000 people work and “Someone had a death in the family, “Any soldier, I welcome them, thank The poster’s caption reads, “Forever in through which more than 8 million passen- and the woman was sobbing on the floor. them and tell them I’ll pray for them – so Our Hearts.” gers passed in 2004. He calmed her down,” says Brian Eck- they can all come home safely,” Chen says. stein, the manager of guest services for He knows the heartbreak of saying good- History of comfort One of 150 airports with BAA Indianapolis, the company that op- bye to someone you love. His wife of 31 The chaplains comforted travelers in chaplains erates the airport for the Indianapolis Air- years died 10 years ago of breast cancer. Indianapolis on Sept. 11, 2001. They also Indianapolis International Airport is port Authority. She was 55. At the time, Chen says, he told responded quickly on Halloween night in among about 50 in the United States – and “Sometimes, people get here and they’re God he was ready to die, too. 1994 when an American Eagle plane that 150 worldwide – that have chaplaincy pro- stuck here,” says Theresa Hedge, a mem- “It’s by God’s grace and power that I left the Indianapolis airport crashed in grams. The programs are part of the Inter- ber of the Airport Police Department. “He’ll keep going,” he says. “I believe, ‘Only one northern Indiana, killing all 68 people on national Association of Civil Aviation get them a cab, a place to stay. He’ll go to life soon will pass. Only what’s done for board. Chaplains, a network that shares informa- the airlines with them and help them rebook Christ will last.’ I keep doing it because of O’Connor, the Catholic chaplain, won’t tion and concerns about serving the spiri- their flights. He’s always uplifting, no mat- the love of Christ. He wants me to share forget the agonizing hours he and his col- tual needs of air travelers. ter what your religion. He puts a smile on his Gospel.” leagues spent with families who rushed to “We are there because there’s a need,” your face.” Chen leads Bible study every Thursday the airport that night. The chaplains prayed says Ashfaq Lodhi, a Muslim who serves Even Chen has a favorite Chen story. at noon in the chapel that also serves as an with them from 7 p.m. to past 1 a.m., when as a chaplain. “Sometimes passengers get “One year and three months ago, I mar- office for the chaplains. It is across from Continued on page 3 www. inareaumc.org Hoosier United 2 Methodists FROM THE BISHOP together May/June 2005 Ministry is a marathon It won’t be long now. Soon I will be priv- of ministry. Ministry is not just a sprint ileged to participate in my favorite part of to accomplish a few things; it is a mara- Ministry … is a marathon of pacing ourselves, being a bishop – commissioning and or- thon of pacing ourselves, thinking long- daining new clergy at the Annual Confer- term and watching the power of God un- thinking long-term and watching the power of God ences here in Indiana. Our preparations are fold in the lives of those entrusted to our unfold in the lives of those entrusted to our ministry. in high gear for those Annual Conferenc- ministry. es. Tomorrow I will be sharing in a retreat Saying that “ministry is a marathon” is with those ordination candidates certainly not an excuse for lazi- own ordination as an Elder) to see some ly through our ministry. where we will get acquainted, ness, or a justification for sitting of those results. Since moving back to In- So this is what I will say to those candi- worship and pray together, and back passively and denying our diana, I have encountered some of the peo- dates for ordination: Ministry is a marathon, talk about the meaning of their call to be leaders in the church. ple from my early days of ministry, and so keep the faith, take care of yourself, don’t ordination. This marathon image of minis- am amazed to hear how God worked give up during the times when ministry is One thing I will be sharing try is a reminder that much of through – or in spite of – my early efforts hard, keep trusting God to work through with those ordinands is that what we accomplish in ministry at ministry. It is such a privilege to have you, watch for the long-term unfolding of ministry is not a sprint; it is a is only apparent after many an adult come up to me and say: “You bap- God’s grace through your ministry and marathon. No matter how years. It is also a reminder of our tized me.” or “You were my youth minis- above all, keep on running the race (Phil- many years of ministry we need to think about the long-term ter when I was a kid.” or “You helped my ippians 3:14). have to serve, ministry is not effect of decisions made, of lives family through a time of grief.” Such mo- From Bishop Michael J. Coyner just a series of short-term events, sermons touched and of ministry lived within a com- ments are an overwhelming reminder that “Making a Difference ... in Indiana and preached, pastoral calls made or meetings munity of faith. God works slowly, patiently and gracious- around the world” attended. No, those many separate events I have been in ministry long enough are part of a lifelong witness and lifestyle (this year is the 30th anniversary of my Wow! United Methodists HOOSIER UNITED METHODISTS are generous people I am overwhelmed with the generosi- ♦ North Indiana Conference = $352,491 ty of the United Methodist people here in ♦ South Indiana Conference = $433,343 Indiana. Oh I know, we talk a lot about ♦ Total = $785,834 budget problems, about the need to cut Total for both the church rebuilding and May/June 2005 Vol. 35 No.5 back on expenses, and about how some the tsunami relief = $909,254 of our churches and communities are Wow! Almost a million dollars! That is MISSION STATEMENT: To reflect the teachings of Christ through struggling. But we are a generous peo- a great response to a great need. And I know stories and pictures, thereby sharing key moments and concerns in ple, and we are a people who have re- from correspondence from some of our the life of his Indiana church and its people. To share joy, to share sources, and when we work together we pastors and churches that there are more personal faith, to share challenges, and to refresh the spirit. produce amazing results. gifts in route to the conference offices. The latest proof of our generosity is the Wow! We can be proud of our response. Indiana Area Bishop/Publisher: Michael J. Coyner Indianapolis, IN. Printed in the U.S.A. report I have just received from our two How do you explain such generosity? I copyright 2005 Indiana Area of The United Editor: Daniel R. Gangler conference treasurers about the giving of find myself coming to these conclusions: Methodist Church. Indiana United Methodists to rebuild the 1. We have the money – we as United Editorial Assistant: Erma Metzler Postmaster: Send address changes to Hoosier Methodist Church in Banda Aceh, and also Methodist people are a people with re- the total giving for relief to those impacted Printed by: HNE Printers, Columbus with soy- United Methodists Together, 1100 W. 42nd sources, based inks on recycled/recyclable paper St., Suite 210, Indianapolis, Indiana 46208 by the Tsunami. 2. We are generous when given the oppor- Here are the results through the tunity to share with others in need, Editorial Offices: Subscription Information: Call 317-924-1321. month of April: 3. The more specific the need, the greater Hoosier United Methodists Together One-year subscription, $12, single copy $1.50 Indiana Area United Methodist Church Gifts to rebuild the church in Banda our response, and Change of Address: Send the mailing label 1100 W. 42nd St., Suite 210 Aceh: 4. We really do want to make a difference with your new address to: Indianapolis, Indiana 46208 ♦ in the world by working together as Erma Metzler, Together, Indiana Area UMC, North Indiana Conference = $50,235 Phone: 317-924-1321 ♦ United Methodists. 1100 W. 42nd. St., Suite 210, Indianapolis, South Indiana Conference = $73,185 Fax: 317-924-4859 ♦ Indiana 46208 or e-mail Total = $125,420 Wow! All I can say is: Thanks be to God! e-mail: [email protected] Additional giving for Tsunami relief: Bishop Michael J. Coyner [email protected] Hoosier United Methodists Together (ISSN- Commentaries and letters provided by 1544-080x) is a monthly (except June, Indiana Area United Methodist August and December) publication of Communications do not necessarily represent Indiana Area United Methodist Fast Communications, 1100 W. 42nd. St., the opinions or policies of Bishop Michael Indianapolis, IN 46208, for clergy, laity and Coyner, the Indiana Area or The United Easy seekers. Periodicals postage paid at Methodist Church. Members of the Indiana Area Communications Commission and Editorial Advisory Group: Steve Bahrt, chairman David Maish Free Char Harris Allen Bruce Palmer Bishop Michael J. Coyner Scott Pattison Keeping You Connected Ida Easley Cindy Reynolds With vital information about Hoosier United Methodists Mark Eutsler Robert Sharp Donald Griffith Paula Shrock Hoosier United Methodist News is electronic and available to you 24/7. Jack Howey Bert Talbott Connect at www.inareaumc.org Permission is hereby granted to United Methodist congregations to reprint stories, not previ- Add your e-mail address by sending a blank page to [email protected]. ously copyrighted, in church newsletters. This publication is financially supported through the conference apportionments of the North and South Indiana United Methodist Conferences. For information, news and commentary including: Bishop Coyner’s messages www.inareaumc.org Indiana Area news Disaster alerts Corrections Upcoming events Noblesville Union United Methodist Church in the Indianapolis East District of Mission updates and the South Indiana Conference gave 100 percent of its apportionments, but was United Methodists worldwide omitted from the Honor Roll listing in the April issue of Hoosier United Method- e-HUM is a ministry of Indiana Area Communications ists Together. Hoosier United WELCOME Methodists 3 www.inareaumc.org together

Giving God praise for the ministry of military chaplains I begin each work day by reading lived through World War II are the including 88 chaplains to serve their country. As from a small brown devotional same things on our hearts and What the Grand who served from Indi- we approach Memorial book titled Strength for Service to minds today as we live through an- ana’s Methodist and Day, let us remember God and Country. It was pub- other war. The language is mas- Generation did Evangelical United and give thanks for our lished in 1942 by Abingdon- culine and old English, and sounds during World War II Brethren churches. military chaplains that Cokesbury Press. The pocket- strange to our contemporary ears. As a tribute to hon- continue to mean so sized devotional book, a resource Prominent ecumenical ministers in saving civilization or those chaplains of much in the lives of so of strength, encouragement and in the United States wrote each can never be 60 years ago, Togeth- many during these past hope, was given by chaplains and daily entry. The entry for Sept. 1 er interviewed three of six decades. pastors to military personnel in- was written by Bishop Richard underestimated. the four chaplains who A revised version of volved in the Second World War. Raines before he was bishop of In- are still alive. They are Strength for Service to My 63-year-old copy was giv- diana, when he was senior pastor the Revs. Robert Blodgett, age God and Country was published en to me several of the Henne- and the insurgents in Iraq will end. 102; George Dinwiddie, age 93, in 2002. The book contains 365 years ago as a pin Avenue What wasn’t known during World and the youngest chaplain of devotions written by leading Prot- gift for officiat- Methodist War II was whether the Axis Pow- World War II, John Wolf, age 86. estant ministers in 1942 and more ing at a wed- Church in ers of Germany and Japan would Read their stories on page 12 and than 40 contemporary contribu- ding. The cou- Minneapolis. triumph over Western Civilization review the list of the 88 chaplains tions from women, Jewish and Is- ple thought I On this or whether the Allied Powers that who served from our North and lamic writers, Roman Catholic might like read- 60th anniver- included the United States would South Indiana conferences on clergy and African-American ing it, since it sary of Victory defeat them. What the Grand Gen- page 13. Remember them on Me- leaders. The book can be ordered was a piece of Methodist history. in Europe and the liberation of eration did during World War II morial Day Sunday. through Cokesbury by calling For many years, it’s been on my thousands of Jews from Nazi con- in saving civilization can never be Today, according to the En- 800-672-1789 or by logging on to book self untouched. At the begin- centration camps, I have found underestimated. dorsing Agency’s records, there www.cokesbury.com. This little ning of the Iraq War, I decided to this little devotional guide to be a Another book that helped me are a total of 1,278 United Meth- book would make a welcomed gift begin using it for my daily devo- bridge between the present I am bridge the past and present in re- odist chaplains world wide. Of to those who are serving in the tions to see if there was a parallel living and the past which was lation to World War II is about the these 586 are endorsed military armed forces today. It sells for between what was said and prayed lived shortly before my birth. Methodist chaplains of World War chaplains of whom 78 are present- around six dollars. during the war sixty years ago and Both past and present times II. I learned that more than 10,000 ly deployed to either Iraq or Af- My copy is priceless. the war today. experience a nation under distress. military chaplains served during ghanistan and in harms way. They I discovered what was on the We know that sooner or later, the that war. Of those, the book pic- have answered both the call to Welcome hearts and minds of those who conflict between the United States tures more than 1,700 chaplains Christian ministry as well as the call Daniel R. Gangler

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Technicality throughout the country. Lets get it receive pensions or health insur- told, “the people were nice, but the in every member’s home, but it is right. ance. How come and then where religion did not mean anything to difficult to find one in a church disappointing Tom Coahran does that money go? them.” How come? library. How come? It is disappointing that such a Indianapolis We have been losing members When our older members leave The Discipline states that the circumstance exists where a “tech- since the merger of the two and we ask them why they left and basis of our faith is John Wesley’s nicality” is utilized in a hearing to How come? churches. Are they from the EUB they usually say that “they realize Sermons and his Notes on the determine an individual’s (minis- (former Evangelical United Breth- there is something more.” How New Testament, but very few I read Bishop Coyner’s article have read them. How come? terial) credentials and viability to on financing in the April 2005 To- ren) Church and if so, how come? come? Is The United Methodist Church maintain an important position. An gether, and had the question that When we get new members to The United Methodist Book of inability to properly resolve this came to my mind – How come? attend they will stay two years and Discipline states that the Bishop to be the training ground for evan- (Stroud case) will speak volumes We are told that 70 percent of leave. When we contact them to has the responsibility to see that it gelical churches? How come? to United Methodists and others our ministers are laity and do not see what the problem was we are is followed, and a copy should be Michael Willison Terre Haute, Ind. Continued from page 1 A wing and a prayer Subscribe today! confirmation of the passenger list finally parking operations supervisor. “It’s like he Together will inform you of religious news near and came. remembers everybody,” she says. “That al- O’Connor now says Mass every Sun- ways amazes me. I work outside the termi- far, will inspire you with stories of faith and will connect day at 10:45 a.m. for travelers and airport nal, and he remembers me.” you with a larger family of Christians. workers. After talking to Robertson, Chen walks “At the airport, you’ll get people who past the airline counters again, talking to † $12 for one year † $20 for two years have been away from the church for a long as many people as he can. Then he holds †Here is my contribution to assist with Together’s expenses time,” says the pastor of St. Joseph Catho- open an elevator door for three passengers. lic Church and St. Ann Catholic Church. He asks where they’re going, tells them Name: ______“They don’t feel threatened to talk to how to get to their gate and says to them, someone they’ll never see again. It can help “God bless.” Address: ______people back to God.” Every conversation reflects the prayer Chen made during a recent Sunday ecumen- City: ______Community in itself ical service at the airport. So will more volunteers and the “We pray for those who are traveling State: ______Zip: ______planned new chapel, the chaplains say. today, for those who are working today,” “The airport is like another communi- Chen said. “May you be with them, God. Send to: ty,” says Shields, the chaplain who is pas- And until we meet again, may you hold us Hoosier United Methodists Together tor of Covenant Community Church. “I in the palm of your hand.” Indiana Area United Methodist Church walk the halls and talk to passengers. I stop John Shaughnessy serves as a religion 1100 W. 42nd St., Suite 210 and talk to the ticket sellers. They’re all glad reporter at the Indianapolis Star. This story Indianapolis, Indiana 46208 to see you. They want to talk. People espe- first appeared in the April 3, 2005 issue of cially look forward to seeing Chen because the Indianapolis Star. Copyright 2005 Indi- Thank you for your support. he’s out there so much.” anapolis Star. Used by permission. All right Just ask Jeni Robertson, the airport’s reserved. Hoosier United 4 Methodists INDIANA together May/June 2005 Bishop’s Special Christmas Offering funds distributed worldwide INDIANAPOLIS – More than the U.S. and Central conferences $66,000 in funds received from beyond the U.S. or interfaith or- One-third of the funds will go to the 2004 Bishop’s Special Christ- ganizations approved by The Unit- mas Offering were distributed ed Methodist Church. The Indiana projects, one-third will go to across Indiana, the United States projects are administered by the Advanced Specials in United States and around the world during an denomination’s General Board of April 19 meeting of the Indiana Global Ministries. and one-third will go to Advanced Area offering committee in India- The funds were primarily from Specials beyond the United States. napolis. the annual Bishop’s Special Christ- Of the projects approved by the mas Offering received during De- committee, one-third of the funds cember 2004 in United Methodist for a total of $91,596. Ministries $900; and will go to Indiana projects, one- congregations across Indiana. A The committee approved that Sisterhood’s Brightwood third will go to Advanced Specials total of $43,815 was received from $10,000 received from the offering Program $850. in United States and one-third will North Indiana Conference church- would be used at the discretion of Each of ten Advance go to Advanced Specials beyond es. Another $42,730 was received Indiana Area Bishop Mike Coyner. Special children’s min- the United States. All Advance from South Indiana Conference. In Indiana, each of the two con- istries in the United ministries are related to United More than $5,000 was received ferences independently decided States received $2,200. Methodist annual conferences in from grants and other contributions how to distribute their $11,000 They include: Hender- share for Indiana projects to chil- son Settlement, Frakes, dren’s ministries. The North Indi- Ky.; McCurdy Mission Church and Society ana Conference decided to con- School, Espanola, N. tribute to these ministries: NIC Mex.; Covenant Educa- Camp Programs $3,000, Kokomo tion Center, Shiprock, N. leader to visit Indiana Rescue Mission $960, NIC Chil- Mex.; Red Bird School, The Rev. Jim Win- www.nicumc.org. dren and Poverty $200, Royal Tuition Support, Bever- kler, general secretary On June 9, Winkler Family Kids’ Camp $3,000, ly, Ky.; A Child USA (UM chil- Street Children, Rio de Janeiro; of the General Board will attend the South In- Northwest Family Services Chil- dren’s ministries); Children’s Ishe Anesu Project (for abandoned of Church and Society diana Annual Confer- dren’s Programs $960, Charis Sidewalk Church School Program, and runaway children), Zimbabwe; will be in Indiana this ence session and will House (Fort Wayne Rescue Mis- San Antonio, Texas; Hillcrest- Babyfold at Old Mutare Hospital, spring. speak in the morning to sion) $960, West Central Neigh- Bruce United Methodist Minis- Zimbabwe; El Elohe, Home for The Rev. Rob Nel- the Laity Executive borhood Ministry $960, and tries, Ashland, Ky.; Wesley Child- Children, Galeana, Mexico; and son of the North Indi- Session and the Laity Anderson New Hope $960. Care Center, Cincinnati, Ohio; Grace Children’s Hospital, Haiti. ana Conference Board Luncheon. SIC Lay The South Indiana Conference Camp Ministries, Jayuya; Nome Overhead expenses for this of- of Church and Society Leader Ike Williams decided to contribute to these Community Center, Alaska. fering cost $15,000 and included has arranged for Win- Winkler has asked Winkler to ministries: SIC Division of Outdoor Each of ten Advance Special posters, envelopes and mailings. kler to join with Indi- tell members what the Ministries $5,000; Vida Nueva, c/o children’s ministries beyond the Materials are designed by Indiana ana Bishop Mike Coyner on May General Board of Church and So- Metro Ministries $850; Brightwood United States received $2,200. Area Communications at no ad- 23-24 to present a seminar on “In- ciety is and how it operates. The Community Center, c/o Metro They include: School Hot Lunch ditional cost. troducing the Social Principles to General Board of Church and So- Ministries $850; Fletcher Place Program (Haiti); AIDS Awareness The 2005 Bishop’s Special Your Congregation” at the Saint ciety is supported through confer- Community Center $850; and Care for AIDS Orphans (Ken- Christmas Offering will be re- Joseph Center in Tipton, Ind. For ence apportionments. Fourteenth and Chestnut ya); Community Outreach Pro- ceived in church’s across Indiana more information contact the For more information about the Community Center $850; South gram for Children, India; Front this coming December. Promotion- North Indiana Conference at 800- Board of Church and Society, log Indiana School of Christian Mission Porch Orphans; Ukrainian Street al materials are scheduled to be 783-5138 or online at on to www.umc-gbcs.org. $850; Camp Encounter/Outdoor Children Ministry; Ministry to mailed the beginning of November. United Methodist supported legislation proved successful in 2005 session of Indiana General Assembly By Daniel R. Gangler Family and Social Services) and renames are provided the state through the Tobacco nator the Rev. John Wolf, a retired minister the Division of Family and Children to Settlement which gives each state more than of Valparaiso. Early on the House of Rep- INDIANAPOLIS – Hoosier United Meth- the Division of Family Resources, $125 million each year part of which is ex- resentatives voted down HB1569 by a 7-4 odists worked with other churches and ♦ Establishes the Child Support Bureau pected to go for the prevention and cessa- margin. This bill would have allowed Indi- groups in supporting three primary issues with the duty ensuring the collection of tion of smoking. ana’s two horse racing tracks to install up during the most recent session of the Indi- child support arrearages, United Methodists Hester Schultz of to 2,500 slot machines each. As it came to ana General Assembly. ♦ Provides a review process if a county Meridian St. UMC in Indianapolis, Paul committee, this bill also would have per- Those issues included support for “Put- does not levy the amount necessary for Messplay of Lawrence UMC and Dan mitted a casino in Downtown Indianapolis ting Children First” legislation, support of children’s psychiatric residential treat- Evans, president and CEO of United Meth- to fund a new football stadium where the the Indiana Tobacco Prevention and Ces- ment services, and odist-related Clarian Health Partners played Indianapolis Colts would play. Later in the sation agency in curbing smoking and sup- ♦ Establishes maximum caseload ratios for key roles in the drive to support ITPC. Par- legislative session, Senate President Pro port in preventing the expansion of legal- child protection caseworkers (initial as- ish Nurse Patricia Thorlton of Greenwood Tempore Robert Garton, a member of First ized gambling in Indiana. sessments – 12 active cases per month; UMC and program coordinator for parish UMC in Columbus, prevented gambling ongoing cases – 17 active per case- nursing and health ministries at Clarian, legislation from coming to the floor of the Putting Children First worker. This last provision will require coordinated the Hoosier Faith and Health Senate. The Rev. Darren Cushman Wood, senior that 880 new caseworkers be hired by Coalition. She led the Valentine’s Day lun- The session ended with no provisions for pastor of Speedway UMC, worked with the the summer of 2008. cheon which drew more than 140 interfaith the expansion of legalized gambling in In- South Indiana Conference Bishop’s Initia- religion leaders to the Statehouse. There diana. tive for Children and Poverty, chaired by No smoking leaders personally asked Indiana Senators During the legislative session, Indiana the Rev. Gwen Roberts of Faith UMC, in In the church’s support for the preven- and Representatives and Governor Daniels Bishop Mike Coyner wrote to and visited supporting “Putting Children First” legis- tion of smoking in Indiana, more than 70 to maintain ITPC funding. The legislature with Indiana’s incoming Governor Mitch lation. Cushman Wood told Together he United Methodist congregations joined with approved to maintain the current funding Daniels and United Methodist legislators. was pleased that the Indiana General As- 324 other faith groups and health organiza- for ITPC at $10.8 million. During those visits, he again raised these sembly passed Senate Bill 529, which will tions across the state supported the Hoosier three issues and asked the governor and leg- establish reforms in the child welfare sys- Faith and Health Coalition Resolution ask- No expansion of gambling islators for their support. Coyner also host- tem, and that the state budget provides in- ing the General Assembly to maintain the One of the biggest surprises for United ed a legislative luncheon on March 23 with creased funding for hiring additional case- original funding of the Indiana Tobacco Pre- Methodists was that both houses of the leg- the assistance of Senator Patricia Miller, a workers. The new law: vention and Cessation agency at $32 mil- islature refused any expansion of legalized member of Old Bethel UMC in Indianapo- ♦ Establishes the new Department of Child lion dollars. Last year ITPC was cut by two- gambling. That pleased the Indiana Coali- lis. Ten of the 27 legislators, who are Unit- Services (removing these duties from thirds funding to $10.8 million. The funds tion Against Legalized Gambling coordi- ed Methodists, attended the noontime event. Hoosier United INDIANA Methodists 5 www.inareaumc.org together State court rejects DePauw University employee’s appeal GREENCASTLE, Ind. (UMNS) Earlier this year, the Indiana favor,” she said. “I have been sup- – In a unanimous ruling, the Indi- Court of Appeals ruled in favor of ported by many people in the ana State Supreme Court has re- DePauw University and over- Christian community.” jected a request by DePauw Uni- turned a jury’s verdict in favor of “From the very inception of the versity employee Janis Price to Price, a DePauw employee who case, DePauw believed Mrs. have her case heard. has worked in the education de- Price’s many claims were un- “Repeatedly, courts have ruled partment for more than 15 years. founded, and the courts have re- unequivocally in DePauw Univer- Price then filed an appeal. peatedly agreed,” said DePauw’s sity’s favor and that Mrs. Price’s In a trial in October 2003, a jury counsel, John Neighbours. lawsuit leveled charges that were awarded Price $10,401 in damag- “This seems a good time to say baseless,” said Ken Owen, direc- es. At that time, the jury ruled again – emphatically – that DeP- tor of media relations for the uni- DePauw did not properly follow auw, which was founded by the versity in Greencastle, Ind. “Indi- policies in its faculty handbook United Methodist Church, is and ana’s highest court has effective- when reducing her duties. has been open to and tolerant of ly put her meritless claims to rest In her lawsuit, Price claimed people of all backgrounds and for good, which we applaud.” DePauw had cut her teaching du- faiths,” Owen stated. “The rich Price told United Methodist ties because of her religious views. traditions of this institution can- News Service she is “disappoint- She said she was reassigned and not be changed by the mischarac- ed” that the court refused to “even incurred a $10,000 pay cut be- UMNS photo courtesy DePauw University terizations of one person. As the look at the case.” The latest rul- cause she had distributed anti-ho- The Arch on the east side of East College lawn at DePauw University was DePauw family, we’re proud of ing ends her legal battle, she said. mosexual magazines in her class- donated by the Class of 1890 in 1910. who we are and thrilled this mat- “My confidence in the legal room. ter is finally behind us.” system has been greatly dimin- DePauw argued that its deci- reviews of her performance. In discussing the latest round, DePauw University is one of ished but my faith in Jesus Christ sion to change Price’s duties was Price and her attorney, John Price said she was still gratified 124 institutions of higher educa- is still very strong,” she said. “It the result of both declining enroll- Price (no relation), asked the State that a jury trial in 2003 ruled in tion related to The United Meth- is clear to me that justice and le- ments in the teacher education Supreme Court to review the her favor. “I am pleased a jury of odist Church. For more informa- gality are two different things.” program and regular and special Court of Appeals’ ruling. my peers ruled unanimously in my tion, log on to www.depauw.edu. CTS to host preaching workshop with Dan Moseley INDIANAPOLIS (CTS) – Dan people understand. However, dur- ticipants should arrive the day of ers at Washington Cathedral, is ing, a book of sermons on stew- Moseley is scheduled to lead a ing this workshop we will explore the conference at 8:30 a.m. in active in the church both locally ardship. He holds a B.D. and preaching workshop entitled “The how we are healed and trans- room 122 for registration. and nationally and teaches preach- D.Min. from Vanderbilt Divinity Art of Facilitating Healing Rela- formed by relationships in which Moseley was pastor of Vine ing and ministerial leadership School in Nashville, Tenn. tionships” on Monday, May 23 we are known and loved more Street Christian Church (Disciples throughout the United States. Cost is $40 and includes lunch. from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Chris- than we are by ideas. We will ex- of Christ) for 15 years before com- Moseley helped develop Grief Registration deadline: May 16. tian Theological Seminary in In- plore how the preacher can help ing to CTS in 1997 to teach prac- Healing, Inc. and has written nu- CEU contact hours: 4.5. For more dianapolis. congregants make connections tical parish ministry. He teaches merous articles and sermons for information log on to www.cts.edu This workshop will explore with people in scripture and in regularly at the College of Preach- publication. He edited Joyful Giv- or call 317- 924-1331. how preaching that transforms is contemporary culture and how communication that enables those relationships can begin, strangers to be in healing relation- deepen and end in ways that help South Indiana School of Christian ships with each other. Preaching us become new. is often seen as the communica- The cost of the conference is Mission billed a ‘Cornerstone of Hope’ tion of ideas. It is sometimes mea- $40 (lunch included) and the reg- By Georganna Irish apostles and prophets, with Christ Children and youth classes are sured on the basis of how much istration deadline is May 16. Par- Jesus himself as the cornerstone held during the weekday session. Each year conference Schools (NRSV). Bessie Adams will be the Chil- New liberal arts deans of Christian Mission are held The South Indiana Conference dren’s Teacher. To register, con- across the United States involving studies are Children in the Bible tact Justine Handley, Regis- thousands of students. Mission and by Paula Mayberry as study lead- trar,317-861-9586, for registration selected at UINDY ministries have been enlarged and er, India/Pakistan with Sandy forms. enlivened by our learning and shar- Ruby and Cherian Thomas as Scholarships are available for Briere, Langdon will lead university’s ing. Study leaders promote spiri- study leaders, and Public Educa- children and first time pastors. College of Arts and Sciences tual growth and increase under- tion with Dora Largent and Rita Contact your district United Meth- The University of Indianapolis tive in Sep- standings of contemporary issues. Gaither-Gant as study leaders. odist Women president to apply for has announced a new dean and tember. He The theme for the 2005 school The South Indiana Conference a children’s scholarship. First time associate dean for its College of is a profes- is “Cornerstones of Hope,” using school will be held at the Univer- pastors should apply to Mary Jane Arts and Sciences. sor and the Scripture of Ephesians 2:19- sity of Indianapolis beginning Compton, 812-335-0993, United Daniel H. Briere, Ph.D., was chair of bi- 20: So then you are no longer with a weekend school of Friday, Methodist Women treasurer. named dean ology and a strangers and aliens, but you are July 15 through Saturday, July 16. Georganna Irish serves as of the col- professor of citizens with the saints and also The weekday school begins on South Indiana Conference United lege. An as- anthropolo- members of the household of God, Sunday, July 17 through Wednes- Methodist Women Communica- sociate pro- gy. Lang- built upon the foundation of the day, July 20, 2005. tion Coordinator. fessor of don will di- modern lan- rect the col- Langdon guages, Bri- lege’s graduate and international Connersville pastor writes book of ere has been components. serving as The university’s College of parables about her grandpa interim Arts and Sciences includes depart- The Rev. Diana McCracken of ble that taught how God is in ev- Mary Shepherd, Patricia Fripp, dean during ments of Anthropology, Art and Grace United Methodist Church erything in our lives.” Doris Lee McCoy, Joan Burge, the national Briere Design, Biology, Chemistry, Com- at Connersville in Rushville Dis- McCraken is also part another Kathy Slamp, Sharyn Yonkman, search process. Briere’s academ- munication, English, History and trict has recently published a book book tilted Remarkable Women. Dottie Wlters, Nancy Hutson, ic interests include the Spanish Political Science, Mathematics titled The Gospel According to This book is an in-depth testimo- Wendy Patton, Sasha Zebryk, Kay language, medieval Spanish liter- and Computer Science, Modern Grandpa. nial from some of America’s most McGarry, Robbie Houcek, Janet ature and the Hispanic communi- Languages, Music, Philosophy McCraken told Together, “This so-called “remarkable women.” Hatcher Rice, Jeannie DeSanto, ty in Indianapolis. and Religion, Physics and Earth- is a series of stories that her She said, “I am one of several Marci Shimoff, Jennifer O’Neal, John J. Langdon, Ph.D., was Space Sciences, Social Sciences Grandfather, Charles Wesley women who were interviewed by Jenny Nolen, Lisa Yankowitz, named associate dean of the Col- and Theatre, as well as the Insti- Kelly, shared with me as a child. Insight Publishing.” Megan Zucaro, Collene Wolfe. lege of Arts and Sciences, effec- tute for War and Diplomacy. Each story is a modern day para- Included in this book also is Devona Williams, Cynthia Cuevas. Hoosier United 6 Methodists INDIANA together May/June 2005 New Beginnings theme will set the pace at South Indiana Annual Conference in Bloomington Using New Beginnings as a theme, three United Methodist SOUTH INDIANA CONFERENCE bishops will preach or lead Bible Indiana University Auditorium in Bloomington studies at the upcoming South In- June 9 - 11, 2005 diana Conference Session June 9- 11 at the Indiana University Au- ditorium in Bloomington. The Theme: New Beginnings three include: Bishops David “... if anyone is in Christ, he or she is a new creation...” Lawson, 2 Corintians 5:17 Lindsey Davis and he served the Council of Bishops Davis, 57, has served as bish- Mike as liaison to the denomination’s 13 op of the North Georgia Area Coyner. seminaries. He also represented the since 1996. He was elected to the council in Liberia, Burundi and episcopacy in 1996 from the Lawson Kenya. He currently resides in Fran- Kentucky Conference where he Bishop klin, Ind., was superintendent of the Lex- Lawson is with his wife ington District. Born in Durham, scheduled Martha. N.C, Davis spent most of his life The South Indiana Annual Conference will be held in the Indiana Univer- in Kentucky and holds degrees sity Auditorium in Bloomington. to preach Lawson during the Davis from Union College, Universi- Memorial Service on Thursday, Bishop ty of Kentucky, Lexington Theo- Jennifer Mink of Pineville, Ky. include: 1 June 9 at the opening of the ses- Davis is logical Seminary, and Kentucky Their children are: Laura Ellen Corinthians sion. He retired in 1996 after serv- scheduled to Wesleyan College. He was or- Miller, an elementary school 12, Mat- ing the church 40 years as an or- preach on dained an Elder in 1981. teacher in Lexington, Ky.; and thew 25, dained minister. Lawson was pas- Thursday He has served on the General John Lindsey Davis, who works Acts 6:1-7, tor of several South Conference evening, Davis Council on Ministries (1996- and lives in Atlanta. 2:44-47 and churches and also served as a Wes- June 9 dur- 2000), as Director of the General 2 Corin- ley Foundation minister, a district ing the church growth and evange- Board of Global Ministries, and Coyner thians 9. superintendent and as Conference lism event following an all-confer- President of the United Method- Indiana Area Bishop Mike Using those Council director. ence dinner. He also will preach ist Committee on Relief (2000- Coyner, who preached last year as passages, He was elected to the episcopa- during the Friday morning worship 2004). He is currently Vice-Presi- Bishop of the Dakotas Area, will he will talk Coyner cy in 1984 and served as bishop service when deacon and elder can- dent of the General Council on Fi- lead six Bible studies during the about administration, missions, eight years in Wisconsin and four didates will be introduced and re- nance and Administration. three-day conference session. connectional ministries, institu- years in Illinois. After retirement, tirees will be recognized. Davis is married to the former Scripture he intends to touch on tions and discipleship. Annual conferences to consider changes to church constitution NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UMNS) – Delegates to The United Meth- would be contingent on the re- proposed changes to the United odist Church’s General Confer- quired ratification by the vari- Methodist Church’s constitution ence proposed the eight amend- ous annual conferences. Cur- are being considered this year by ments during their meeting last rently, enabling legislation can- annual conferences meeting May in Pittsburgh. If the annual not be introduced until at least throughout the world including conferences approve the changes, the General Conference fol- both North Indiana and South In- the amendments will go to the lowing the adoption and sub- diana Conferences. Council of Bishops for final rati- sequent ratification of a consti- The changes must be ratified fication. tutional amendment. by an aggregate two-thirds vote of ♦ One of the proposed amend- ♦ Another amendment states that the 63 U.S. annual conferences ments would make possible the a fair and open process must be meeting this spring and the 52 adoption of enabling legisla- used for the election of Gen- conferences meeting throughout tion at the same General Con- eral Conference delegates. the year in Europe, Africa and the ference where an amendment ♦ Two amendments relate to Philippines. is voted upon. Such adoption home missioners. If the changes are approved, General Conference would have the No word on Jeffrey Ake authority to define and fix the A UMNS photo by John C. Goodwin. powers and duties of home PITTSBURGH – Delegates to the United Methodist Church’s 2004 Gen- missioners, and home eral Conference consider legislation. The conference proposed eight as home put on market missioners would be appointed amendments to the church constitution, which, this year, will be consid- LaPORTE, Ind. — According to planned April 15 at Fox Park. by bishops as members of the ered at the conference level. Votes are scheduled at 63 annual confer- news sources across Indiana, the United Methodist Pastor David annual conference. ences in the United States and 52 conferences meeting in Europe, Africa wife of Jeffrey Ake and the cou- Tripp of Rolling Prairie was one ♦ Other amendments also ad- and the Philippines. ple’s four children are planning to of the organizers of that vigil. dress conference membership. the secretary is not a member of vision shall not apply to annual move from their lakefront home The office of U.S. Rep. Chris One defines clergy members of the annual conference. conferences of the former in LaPorte, marking another twist Chocola, R-Bristol, also has re- an annual conference. ♦ The 2000 General Conference Evangelical United Brethren since the LaPorte businessman ported he has not received notice ♦ Another amendment calls for the passed legislation listing the lay Church during the first three with ties to Rolling Prairie Unit- of any change in Ake’s status. people responsible for promot- members of the annual confer- quadrennia after union.” The ed Methodist Church was taken Throughout LaPorte, business- ing the work of The United ence. The 2005 annual confer- phrase is found in the 2000 hostage in Iraq last month. es continue to display signs that Methodist General Board of ence delegates will consider an Book of Discipline, Division A sign listing the house for sale offer prayers and support for the Global Ministries to be members amendment to add the confer- Two, Section IV, Paragraph is posted in the front yard of the Ake family. Ake, 47, owns Equip- of the annual conference. The ence director of lay speaking 25.4, Article V, and in the 2004 Closser Ave. residence. After will- ment Express, a factory near Roll- rationale for the amendment ministries to the list of lay Book of Discipline, Division ingly speaking about Ake and his ing Prairie that manufactures ma- states that about 30 percent of members in Paragraph 602.4 of Two, Section IV, Paragraph plight shortly after he was taken chines that fill water bottles and conference secretaries of global The United Methodist Book of 27.4, Article V. The phrase pro- hostage on April 11, the mayor’s other products. He was doing ministries are laity. Currently, Discipline. posed to be deleted applied to office in LaPorte has remained some work at a water treatment unless elected by his or her home ♦ The final amendment calls for annual conferences in exist- quiet since the abrupt cancellation plant near Baghdad when he was church or included under the the deletion of the phrase “and ence before 1981, making it of a candlelight vigil that was kidnapped. conference’s equalization rule, provided further that this pro- now obsolete. Hoosier United INDIANA Methodists 7 www.inareaumc.org together South Indiana Conference session promises to be more visual, more vital says planning committee chairman BLOOMINGTON, Ind. – The agenda. Not all reports will be pre- moved to be accepted. South Indiana Conference session, sented, except in written form. “Our hope is that each group “If some member of conference to be held June 9-11 at Indiana Uni- Keith said, “Our hope is that wants to amend a specific report, versity, promises to be more visual each group presentation will be presentation will be one that is interesting, then there must be 100 votes to than ever, according to the Rev. one that is interesting, imaginative imaginative and inspiring.” remove that report from the Con- William Keith Jr., Indianapolis East and inspiring.” He told those sent Calendar (as required by the – William Keith Jr. Direct superintendent and chair of asked to report, “We do not want Standing Rules) and then the the sessions planning committee. reports read.” amendment can be acted upon,” Different than previous years, He said, “The idea is to give accentuate the positive and produc- clude: administration, mission, said Keith. the Committee on Annual Confer- members of the conference excit- tive programs of the conference, connectional ministries, institu- The South Indiana Conference ence Session plans to ask the South ing information to take back to their rather than be inundated with orga- tions, discipleship and awards pre- plenary session will open on Indiana Conference to suspend the churches that will highlight the nizational detail, although some of sentations. Thursday, June 9 at 1:15 p.m. in rules so all reports will be present- ministry and mission of The Unit- that will be necessary.” Keith also says that if there are the Indiana University Auditori- ed directly to the plenary session. ed Methodist Church in Indiana. The three-day conference some specific actions that must um. It is scheduled to conclude Keith says, “we will not have leg- We want to communicate ministry, schedule has been broken into six come to the floor of the confer- with a plenary session on Satur- islative sessions on Thursday af- demonstrate activity and involve- group presentations, each of ence to be acted upon, they may day, June 11 before noon. ternoon as in the past.” Instead, ment, and motivate our members to which will be prefaced by a short be included in these reports. At For more information about the each reporting group will be allot- tell the story of the combined work Bible study led by Indiana Bish- the close of the presentation all South Indiana Conference ses- ted a certain amount of time in the of Christ’s Church. Our goal is to op Mike Coyner. Those areas in- reports in each group should be sion, log on to www.sicumc.org. Karen Greenwaldt joins Bishop Coyner in North Indiana Conference Bible studies during three-day event WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. – Busi- ness will not be as usual during NORTH INDIANA CONFERENCE the North Indiana Annual Confer- Purdue University in West Lafayette ence sessions June 2-4 at Purdue June 2 - 4, 2005 University in West Lafayette. Instead Theme: Molded by Grace ... of the tradi- tional Making a Difference preaching services, In- tary, administrator and team lead- and hospital chaplain. diana Bish- er of the Discipleship Ministries She is a member of United op Michael Unit at The General Board of Dis- Methodist Scholars in Christian J. Coyner cipleship in Nashville, Tenn. She Education, Christian Educators will join is a clergy member of the Central Fellowship, and Alternatives, Inc. with the Texas Conference. (an organization committed to re- Rev. Karen Greenwaldt She joined the General Board claiming celebrations of Christmas Greenwaldt of Discipleship staff in 1981 to and Easter and to simple and just in a series of five Bible studies of serve as director of church leader living). North Indiana Conference will be held in Elliott Hall at West Lafayette. Exodus, Matthew, Mark, Acts and development and then as director Greenwaldt is actively affiliat- elor of Science from McMurry Bishop Coyner and the North In- the Corinthians during three days of education and ministries with ed with East End United Method- College in Abilene. She is married diana Conference organizers wel- of the conference. young adults and single adults. ist Church in Nashville where she to Russell Harris. come Greenwaldt to North Indiana. Greenwaldt currently serves as Before joining the board staff serves in various leader positions. Greenwaldt is the author of Sin- Coyner serves as president of The General Secretary of The General in 1981, Greenwaldt served as as- She has a Masters in Theology gles Care One for Another, For General Board of Discipleship. Board of Discipleship. Prior to as- sociate council director for the degree from Perkins School of Everything There is a Season, and A listing of North Indiana An- suming this position in 2001, she Central Texas Conference. She Theology, Southern Methodist Organizing in the Small-Member- nual Conference events can be served as associate general secre- also served as an associate pastor University in Dallas, and a Bach- ship Church. found online at www.nicumc.org. North Indiana Fellowship of Local Pastors and Associate Members formulate ‘Basic Training’ for Certified Lay Ministers By Mike Smith al Conference the category of Sup- Ordained Ministry on March 9 and able, attendance at those sessions but will need to understand the ply Pastor was replaced with the by Coyner and the NIC Cabinet would be determined by partici- United Methodist doctrine con- Former Indiana Area Bishop new title of Certified Lay Minister on March 28. pants in consultation with their cerning the sacraments,) Church Woodie W. White had a vision for (The Book of Discipline of the Unit- This course of study is designed District Superintendent. Administration and Balancing each Supply Pastor to have min- ed Methodist Church 2004 ¶272) to help new lay ministers build a The Basic Training for Certi- Family and Spiritual Life. istry training enabling him or her which put our work into jeopardy. solid foundation for their ministry fied Lay Ministers is proposed to Leadership will be provided by to have a basic knowledge of how Now our current Indiana Area and leadership within the congre- begin in spring 2006 as well as in members of the Fellowship of Lo- to better serve their local church. Bishop Mike Coyner asked FOL- gation they serve, to provide some fall 2006. There will be advanced cal Pastors and Associate Members White asked the North Indiana PAAM to rewrite and adjust Sup- basic training in the practical as- classes offered next year as The who have completed their Course Conference Fellowship of Local ply Pastor training to adapt to the pects of ministry and to help avoid United Methodist Book of Disci- of Study requirements. In addition Pastors and Associate Members to new Certified Lay Minister cate- some common pitfalls. In addition pline requires continued education we will be drawing upon the ex- cultivate his request by designing gory as per the requirements of The this course would be an opportu- for Certified Lay Ministers. The pertise of other pastors, staff and an educational opportunity for Book of Discipline of the United nity for worship, personal sharing, Basic training will be broken into lay persons from within the North Supply Pastors. Methodist Church 2004 ¶272. encouragement, support and spir- two eight-hour sessions. Basic1 Indiana Conference as needed. The North Indiana Conference FOLPAAM’s Executive Com- itual renewal. will include: Worship Planning The Rev. Mike Smith serves as FOLPAAM Executive Committee mittee made the necessary chang- All Supply Pastors, unless oth- and Preparation, Pastoral Care and co-vice chair of the Fellowship of took Bishop White’s request to es and titled the Certified Lay erwise credentialed, would be re- Conflict Resolution. Basic 2 will Local Pastors and Associate heart and worked hard at framing Ministers training as “Basic Train- quired to participate in the Basic include: Sacraments and Confir- Members for the North Indiana the new Supply Pastor’s training. ing.” Basic Training was present- Training Course. As additional mation (Certified Lay Ministers Conference of The United Meth- Unfortunately, at the 2004 Gener- ed and approved by the Board of advanced courses are made avail- will have no sacramental rights, odist Church. Hoosier United 8 Methodists NATIONAL together May/June 2005 Eastern Pennsylvania Conference to appeal Stroud decision By Linda Bloom clergy credentials but remained on A UMNS Report staff of the church as a lay per- On April 29, the Northeast Jurisdiction son. An appeal of the recent deci- On April 29, the Northeast Ju- Committee on Appeals set aside the trial sion to reinstate the credentials of risdiction Committee on Appeals court’s verdict and penalty because of legal a former United Methodist pastor set aside the trial court’s verdict will be filed with the denomina- and penalty because of legal er- errors and reinstated Stroud to clergy tion’s top court. rors and reinstated Stroud to cler- standing. Bishop Marcus Matthews, who gy standing. presides over the church’s Eastern In a May 3 telephone interview, Pennsylvania Annual Conference, Stroud told United Methodist “While losing my credentials in ed to know about my journey and announced May 3 that he was au- News Service she had met with the trial was painful for me and learn from it.” thorizing legal counsel “to pro- Matthews that morning. She said for my family and for the whole The entire experience, she be- ceed immediately with filing an the bishop returned her ordination congregation, it has also been for lieves, “can teach and model a way appeal with the Judicial Council credentials and offered to reap- me a time of healing and recon- of talking about this issue that is of The United Methodist Church.” point her to her former position, ciliation,” she told United Meth- more honest, more open, more The appeal will be filed within but she declined the appointment odist News Service. Christian and more respectful.” the allotted 30-day period, by May until her case is concluded. Stroud characterized the East- Stroud said she has realized that 29. The Judicial Council’s next “I thought the right thing for me ern Pennsylvania Conference as a while some very strong liberal and regularly scheduled meeting is to do was to turn it down,” she “close little family” that she’s been conservative voices are heard on Oct. 26-29 in Houston. said, explaining that she did not involved with for years, and she homosexuality within the denom- Last December, a trial court of want to be a “political football” has appreciated the opportunity to ination, “there are an awful lot of the Eastern Pennsylvania Confer- for various parts of the denomi- be open and honest with people people in the middle who have UMNS photo by Erik Alsgaard ence found Irene Elizabeth (Beth) nation. “That could just trivialize about her committed relationship never had a serious conversation BALTIMORE – Beth Stroud listens Stroud guilty of violating the de- what ordination is and means.” with another woman, Chris Paige. about this issue at their church.” to a reporter’s question at a brief- nomination’s prohibition of “self- Stroud said she would be Although she has received Her case, she hopes, will “put ing April 28, following the public avowed practicing homosexuals” placed on voluntary leave of ab- some “very negative messages a human face on something that part of her hearing before the ap- in the ordained ministry. Stroud, sence as a clergy member but from people that I don’t know,” otherwise might be abstract.” peals committee. The committee who was associate pastor of First would continue her work as a lay Stroud said that all who do know Linda Bloom is a United Meth- “reversed and set aside” her con- United Methodist Church of Ger- minister at First United Method- her “have been very loving and odist News Service news writer viction restoring her to ordained mantown in Philadelphia, lost her ist Church. very respectful…and have want- based in New York. ministry. United Methodist Women kick off Green Team Program By Yvette Moore communities then separated into in her area tried to organize The Green Team’s advocacy goal is to jurisdictional groups to develop against the dumping, they found STAMFORD, Conn. (UMW) – A strategies for addressing area the state’s hands tied because of new program activating local realize environmental justice. problems. Water pollution and NAFTA agreements. United Methodist Women mem- conservation emerged as key con- What I thought was a Michi- bers to work on environmental is- cerns in local communities around gan issue, then a national issue, I sues in their communities was churches are ex-officio members fair treatment and involvement of the country and globally. found was really an international launched at the spring board meet- of United Methodist Women. all people, regardless of race, eth- In the 1990s Michigan became issue, Ms. Schramm said. What’s ing of the Women’s Division of the Toting green bags, coffee mugs nicity or economic status, in the the largest importer of Canadian this dumping going to do to the United Methodist General Board and scarfs, team members marked decision-making process on envi- trash, said Linda Schramm, Green water in this area – not just Lake of Global Ministries in Stamford, the program’s orientation and kick ronmental public policies. The Team member and Women’s Di- Michigan, but the rivers too in 20- Conn., April 7-11. The Women’s off at the Stamford Marriot Ho- Green Team is a diverse group in vision director from the Detroit 25 years? That’s my number one Division is the national adminis- tel, and adopted AA Voice for the areas of expertise, race, age and Conference of The United Meth- reason for wanting to work on trative body of the one-million Voiceless as the motto of their geography. Members hail from odist Church. About 200 trucks of environmental issues.” member United Methodist Wom- work. cities, suburbs and rural areas of trash a day come into Michigan; The Green Team adopted a na- en organization. The Green Team’s advocacy the five geographic jurisdictional 100 trucks through the Detroit tional campaign to continue work Twenty-four United Methodist goal is to realize environmental areas of The United Methodist area. Each day, Schramm passes on a chlorine free products cam- Women members, including one justice, explained Sung-Ok Lee, Church that cover the United mountains of trash landfills as she paign – because of the dioxins male pastor, were selected for the executive secretary for communi- States. drives along the interstate high- caused by chlorine – and to work Green Team program after a three- ty action for the Women’s Divi- During the orientation meeting, ways and the area’s waterways, on the U.N.’s global WASH cam- month month application process. sion and coordinator of the pro- team members shared environ- including the great Lake Michi- paign, which calls for water, sani- Pastors of United Methodist gram. Environmental justice is the mental concerns of their local gan. Schramm said when people tation and hygiene for all. Wilbur Awards recognize secular media for religion coverage NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UMNS) – and values. The Lawrence Hill, writer. The Dallas Morning News and awards are The Dallas Morning News won the ♦ Radio: “Beyond the God Gap” religion editor Bruce Tomaso won named for Mar- segment of “Speaking of the newspaper’s seventh consec- vin C. Wilbur, a newspaper’s seventh consecutive award Faith,” American Public Me- utive award for top religion sec- pioneer in the for top religion section. dia, St. Paul, Minn.; Marge tion from the Religion Communi- field of religion Ostrouskho, managing pro- cators Council. public relations. ducer; Krista Tippett, host. The Boston Globe was named RCC is an international inter- York. Slum Priest” from “Religion ♦ Film documentary: “America’s best major market newspaper for faith association of religion com- ♦ Photography: The Des Moines and Ethics NewsWeekly,” Thir- Heart & Soul,” Blacklight the third time. Honored this year municators working in print, elec- Register, David Peterson, pho- teen/WNET Television, New Films and Walt Disney Pic- was writer Michael Paulson’s se- tronic communication, marketing tographer, “Young men answer York; Phil Jones, correspon- tures; Louis Schwartzberg, pro- ries, “Closing parishes.” and public relations. Based in call to be priests.” dent; Bob Abernethy, host; ducer and director; Vincent Reporters, writers, producers New York, it has 600 members. ♦ Book: To the Mountain, by Arnold Labaton, executive pro- Ueber, associate producer. and photographers received 2005 Other 2005 award recipients Stewart Burns, HarperCollins, ducer; Phil O’Connor, pro- ♦ Film comedy: “Raising Helen,” Wilbur Awards from the Religion included: publisher. ducer. Beacon Pictures and Touchstone Communicators Council on April ♦ National magazine: Life Maga- ♦ TV drama: “Man of Faith” ♦ National TV documentary: Pictures; Gary Marshall, direc- 9 in ceremonies at the Country zine, Frank McCourt, writer; from the series “Jack and “Seeking Salvation,” Vision tor; Ashok Amritraj, producer. Music Hall of Fame in Nashville. Robert Sullivan editor, “Where Bobby,” Berlanti/Liddell and TV, Toronto, Ontario, Canada A complete list of the Wilbur The Wilbur Awards recognize We Pray.” Shoe Money Productions with Travesty Productions; Phillip Award winners is posted at outstanding secular media work ♦ Comic strip: “Frazz,” Jef Mal- Warner Brothers Television. Daniels, director and producer; www.religioncommunicators.org/ featuring religious issues, themes let, artist, United Media, New ♦ National TV news: “Father Joe: S. Wyeth Clarkson, producer; wilbur/2005winners.html. Hoosier United NATIONAL Methodists 9 www.inareaumc.org together UMW leader issues ‘open letter’ to RENEW network By Linda Bloom Global Ministries, last August. She also welcomed an invita- to Jesus Christ. “We do not call into Discipline and Book of Resolu- The division is the administrative tion to meet with leaders of the question or imply any doubt about tions,” she wrote. NEW YORK (UMNS) – The arm of United Methodist Women. RENEW network. the basic integrity of your faith Love stressed that the division leader of United Methodist Wom- RENEW, led by Faye Short, is In a response made available to commitment. We ask you to grant must remain focused on those man- en has sent an “open letter” to an a support network for evangelical, UMNS, Short acknowledged the us the same courtesy and respect.” dates. “Most importantly, our prior- organization that has been critical orthodox women within the Unit- invitation. “We are pleased and Short disputed that RENEW’s ity as women organized for mission of some of its work and theology. ed Methodist Church “providing a will be working with the Women’s criticisms distort the division’s must remain on witnessing in proc- In her voice for their concerns, supple- Division to determine guidelines work, adding that it is the group’s lamation and practice to the love, letter to the mental program resources for their for this meeting,” she wrote. opinion that the division “has grace and salvation of Jesus Christ,” RENEW program needs and a place for them Love’s letter noted that the de- failed to answer with integrity” the she said. She noted that UMW sup- Network, to share ministry with other wom- nomination has excellent resources concerns RENEW has raised over ports mission programs and person- Jan Love en.” It also considers itself a voice for dialogue over “deeply held” dif- the past 15 years. nel in nearly 120 countries. said she for “renewal and accountability” ferences. “The reason that I recom- Love’s letter questioned wheth- Both Love’s letter and Short’s would try to relating to the Women’s Division. mend these materials to you is that, er RENEW is merely in disagree- response included answers to six address the Love’s March 28 letter wel- from our point of view, your criti- ment with actions of the Women’s questions that RENEW had earli- unofficial comed “every opportunity to hear, cisms of the Women’s Division seem Division or with the official posi- er posed to Love on issues rang- caucus’s understand and respond to the to distort our work and portray us as tions and policies of the denomi- ing from ecumenism to homosex- concerns Love concerns and perspectives of Unit- less than the conscientious Chris- nation itself. “In all that we do, the uality. Love’s full open letter can and ques- ed Methodist Women,” along with tians we all strive to be,” she wrote. Women’s Division abides by the be found at http://gbgm-umc.org/ tions. Love became chief execu- being able to “interact with, re- Love pointed out that different decisions of General Conference umw/wdnews.cfm?articleid=3110, tive of the Women’s Division of spond to and learn from others in perspectives do not necessarily (the denomination’s top legislative and Short’s response can be found the United Methodist Board of our denomination.” imply a difference in commitment body) as recorded in the Book of at www.renewnetwork.org. CBS-TV specials continue with Religion and Culture series ‘Sacred Spaces: More than Just Steel and Stone’ to air June 19 NEW YORK – Part Two of the interior life of churches, temples broadcast this optional program in Loss” is scheduled to air on Sun- Fort Wayne, 219-424-1515: CBS’s Religion and Culture series and mosques, revealing how such your area. Check you local listing day, Sept. 25, and “Tsunami Re- WSBT, South Bend, 219-233- is scheduled to air Sunday, June religious sites are used for the sa- for date and time. lief: A Year Later” is scheduled for 3141; WISH-TV Ch. 8, Indianap- 19. Following last month’s pro- cred rituals of their faith, while CBS-TV plans to release two Dec. 11. olis, 317-921-8500; WLFI, West gram, “Abraham’s Children: Re- also serving many basic human more additions to the Religion and CBS-TV also has scheduled A Lafayette, 765-463-1800; WEVV, uniting an Old Family,” CBS-TV needs such as medical care, shel- Culture series before the end of the Christmas Eve Liturgical Special Evansville, 812-464-4444, WTHI, will air “Sacred Spaces: More than ter and basic education. year. They include: “Grief and for December 24. Terre Haute, 812-232-9481 and Just Steel and Stone” nationwide. Call your local CBS-TV affili- Faith Community Responses: At CBS affiliates and phone num- WAVE 3 TV, Louisville, Ky., 502- This program will explore the ate and request the station to Major Tragedies or Personal bers in Indiana include: WANE, 585-2201. General Conference commission sets 2008 dates, chooses theme SCHILLER PARK, Ill. (UMNS) policy and conduct other business. its ministries,” said Sandra Lack- odist Book of Discipline. The commissioners were told – The commission that plans the The 17-member Commission ore, the denomination’s treasurer. “I want to make sure that Chris- the Rev. Gary Graves, pastor of United Methodist Church’s top on General Conference also re- The commissioners were encour- tian conferencing remains before Beaver Dam (Ky.) United Meth- legislative assembly has chosen a duced the assembly’s budget, in aged to review the purposes of us during General Conference,” odist Church, has been reappoint- theme for the 2008 gathering and keeping with a mandate from the General Conference and deter- said Joel Huffman, a commission ed petitions secretary for General has set the dates, shortening Gen- 2004 General Conference to study mine what parts, processes and member representing the Western Conference 2008. eral Conference by two days from ways of increasing efficiency and characteristics of General Confer- Jurisdiction and treasurer of the The commission also autho- previous years. decreasing costs. Meeting April 4- ence they value. Desert Southwest Conference. rized a subcommittee to examine When the 2008 General Con- 6 in Chicago, the commission re- The Rev. Gail Murphy-Geiss, Reducing the length of General sites in the Southeastern Jurisdic- ference meets in Fort Worth, Tex- duced the General Conference’s commission chairwoman, also Conference was one way the com- tion for General Conference 2012. as, delegates will gather for nine $6.66 million operating budget by asked the group to determine how mission determined it could in- Information for the above arti- days instead of 11. With a theme $250,000. The budget for the 2004 General Conference could be- crease efficiency. Reducing the days cle was adapted from a release by of “A Future With Hope,” the assembly in Pittsburgh was $4.87 come a better ministry for the should make the conference more Marvin Cropsey, editor of The nearly 1,000 delegates from million. church rather than simply a pro- efficient and a better experience for Daily Christian Advocate and a around the world will meet from “How a denomination spends cess for rewriting the denomina- the delegates and the denomination, staff member at the United Meth- April 23 to May 2 to set church its money reflects how it values tion’s law book, The United Meth- commissioners decided. odist Publishing House. Mission board commissions deaconesses, church workers STAMFORD, Conn. (UMNS) – ing, the agency had 495 people in and Latin America. bile, Ala.; Beverly Welch, Bath, ya, Liberia, Malaysia and Tonga; Fourteen deaconesses and six mission service, including 115 The Rev. R. Randy Day, the N.Y.; Nazgul William, New York Minioneti Cobb, 31 years, Kenya, church and community workers, deaconesses and 45 church and board’s chief executive, told direc- City; Cherryetta Williams, New Liberia, Malaysia and Tonga; and including an Indiana woman, community workers. The largest tors that mission personnel numbers York City; and Diane Wood, Rich- Elizabeth and the Rev. Yugo Su- were commissioned during the category of service, with 245 peo- are down about 100 people since mond, Va. zuki, 28 years, Japan. April 11-14 meeting of the Unit- ple, is regular or “standard-sup- last year, as time-limited programs Church and community work- Other retiring missionaries are ed Methodist Board of Global port” missionaries, with 189 in have ended and financial constraints ers and their places of service in- Maureen Carr, 39 years, United Ministries. Also honored were 18 international service and 60 serv- have made it difficult to replace all clude Nancy Daleney, New York States; Barbara Crouse, 37 years, retiring missionaries, eight of ing in the United States. Other missionaries who are retiring or City; Robbie Lonewolf, Norfolk, United States; Randall Crouse, 43 whom were present. mission personnel serve as mis- ending their terms of service. Neb.; Mary Z. Longstreth, In- years, United States; the Rev. Hugh Deaconesses are members of a sionaries in Alaska, at the Red New deaconesses and their dianapolis; Debra Price, Keyser, Johnson and Shirliann Johnson, 44 lay order of service that dates back Bird Missionary Conference in places of service include Lynn W.V.; Charissa Shawcross, De- years, Algeria; Judith Newton, 28 to the 1880s in Methodism and Kentucky, through the National Barnes, Elkin, N.C.; Margarette troit; and Victoria A. West, Con- years, Japan; the Rev. Harold and much earlier in some Christian tra- Plan for Hispanic Ministries, and “Jeannie” Chaney, Abilene, Tex- nellsville, Pa. Roberta Smith, 10 years, Senegal; ditions. They serve in a variety of in other capacities, including as; Eun Mi Cho, Albany, N.Y.; Retiring missionaries who par- the Rev. William and Grace War- church, community and institu- young adult short-term service. Charmaine Cothran, Chicago; ticipated in the commissioning nock, 22 years, Cameroon, Lithua- tional settings in the United States. The Board of Global Ministries Ann W. Farris, Arlington, Va.; service in Stamford included nia, Liberia and the Democratic Church and community workers, has another 106 “non-commis- Carol Gullatt, Huntsville, Ala.; B. Charles and Pearl Arnett, who Republic of Congo. another century-old service cate- sioned” mission workers, and Lee Manns, Cherry Hill, N.J.; Pa- served 16 years in Nigeria; Larry Elliott Wright is the public in- gory, are assigned to U.S. urban helps support 266 people linked tricia Marks, Springfield, Va.; Asher, 35 years, Nepal; Phyllis formation officer for the United and rural ministries. to units of the denomination or Robin Minick, Jackson County, Asher, 37 years, Nepal; the Rev. Methodist General Board of Glo- Before the April commission- partner churches in Africa, Asia N.C.; Anne M.B. Robeson, Mo- Don David Cobb, 33 years, Ken- bal Ministries. Hoosier United 10 Methodists ECUMENICAL together May/June 2005 Methodists advocate for Christian unity with new pope

By Linda Bloom over the years, when I have kept A UMNS Report him up to date on our internation- “He is committed to the cause of al Methodist-Catholic dialogue,” Several Methodist leaders are Wainwright added. “He is commit- Christian unity in the truth of the Gospel.” hopeful that the new Roman Cath- ted to the cause of Christian unity – Geoffrey Wainwright olic pope, Benedict XVI, will sup- in the truth of the Gospel. port efforts toward Christian unity. “Doctrinally, he holds to the sues involving Catholics in Africa olic Church.” German-born Cardinal Joseph Christian faith in a classic form. and the United States, Pickens said. Cooperation between The Ratzinger was elected April 19 as Pastorally, he showed great grace “In some sectors of Latin United Methodist and Roman the 265th pope to lead the billion- and sensitivity during his conduct America, his selection is viewed Catholic churches should contin- member Roman Catholic Church. of the funeral Mass for Pope John with disappointment because there ue to develop through bilateral Since 1981, he had served as sec- Paul the Second and in his homi- is a sense that he will not be as dialogue, he said. ond-in-command to Pope John ly on that occasion.” committed to social justice as The Rev. Samuel Kobia, a Meth- Paul II, who died April 2. The Rev. Larry Pickens, chief Pope John Paul II,” Pickens told odist pastor from Kenya and chief The Rev. Geoffrey Wainwright, executive of the United Method- United Methodist News Service. executive of the World Council of who has been chairman of the di- ist Commission on Christian Uni- He said he hopes the new pope Churches, sent a letter to Pope alogue between the World Meth- ty and Interreligious Concerns, will continue John Paul II’s com- Benedict XVI, encouraging him “to odist Council and the Roman said he believes the selection of mitment to ecumenical dialogue initiate new ways of cooperation” UMNS photo courtesy of Catholic Church since 1986, Ratzinger is an indication of a and interfaith cooperation and fur- between Catholics and the World Religion News Service called the new pope “a first-rate church “in transition.” ther efforts for peace and liberation. Council of Churches. Pope Benedict XVI, new leader of the Roman Catholic Church, greets theologian, with a subtle and pen- As prefect of the Sacred Con- “I hope that he will help the Noting that the new pope’s the crowds in Vatican City. etrating mind” and said he was gregation for the Doctrine of Faith, church deal with the AIDS crisis election coincides with the 40th delighted by his election. Ratzinger “had enormous impact in Africa,” Pickens added. “Fur- anniversary of the Second Vatican “I have found it very easy to upon the theological life of the thermore it is my hope that the role Council, Kobia asked him to “con- the spirit of ecumenical openness enter into technical and friendly church” and helped shaped its re- and impact of the developing stitute a time for the Roman Cath- exemplified in the Second Vatican conversation with Cardinal Ratz- sponse to liberation theology in world continues to grow in its sig- olic Church to apply, in a renewed Council to the life of her faithful inger during my meetings with him Latin American and theological is- nificant witness within the Cath- commitment, the teachings and and of the whole church.” United Methodists, Roman Catholics finish sixth round of dialogue By Jerry Filteau nomina- he said, is “to ask theologians, tion’s co- pastors and bishops really to look WASHINGTON (Catholic News chairman, “We believe that the church universal is at what we already share with one Service) – Catholic and United recently re- something which includes all communions another.” Methodist scholars, meeting in tired Bishop of baptized Christians.” “A second aim is that we ask Washington April 29-May 1, Walter both our traditions for renewal” by called for greater sharing and col- Klaiber of – Walter Klaiber learning from one another, he said. laboration between their churches Frankfurt, Another goal of the dialogue is a as they concluded a dialogue on Germany, in is the U.S. Conference of Catho- than it is for Catholics. United call to their churches, in their com- the church and church structures. an inter- lic Bishops. Methodists simply regard episco- mon mission, to see how they can Their findings will be pub- view with Klaiber Bishop Frederick F. Campbell pacy as the best way in practice to work together and respond togeth- lished in a joint study titled Catholic of Columbus, Ohio, Catholic co- govern church regions, not as er “to the challenges all churches “Through Divine Love: The News Service. chairman, said the Catholic something required by divine face at this time.” Church in Each Place and All He said the conferences – at the Church “believes our hierarchical mandate, he said. The three-day meeting at the Places.” local, regional and general levels structure is constitutive of the United Methodists differ from Paulist College in Washington was The 20,000-word document is – are not just a way of organizing church,” with the local church Catholics in their understanding of the ninth session of the sixth round expected to be made public before and governing the church, but an formed of the communion of Cath- the universal church, according to of the U.S. Catholic-Methodist the end of May. It explores simi- expression of being together in the olics around their bishop and the Klaiber. While Catholics identify Dialogue, which dates back to larities and differences in the church of Jesus Christ. universal church formed by the their church as the universal church 1965. As part of the work of their structural ways Catholics and Having a German bishop as co- communion of all the local church- and see other Christian churches as final session, the participants in United Methodists express and chairman of the dialogue is indic- es with the church of Rome. living in imperfect communion with the sixth round drew up recom- strengthen their communion with ative of the structure of The Unit- Klaiber said the United Meth- the Catholic Church, “we believe mendations to present to their one another and with God. ed Methodist Church, which has odists also regard the episcopacy that the church universal includes churches on possible topics for the Various levels of conferences 50 episcopal areas in the United as constitutive of their church and all communions of baptized Chris- next round of dialogue. express the connectedness of States and 18 abroad. The dia- they cannot do away with it, “but tians,” he said. Reprinted with permission United Methodists, said that de- logue sponsor on the Catholic side the reason would be different” One of the aims of the dialogue, from Catholic News Service. Bishops approve interim pacts with Episcopalians, Lutherans WASHINGTON (UMNS) -- The volved in mission together. The ist Episcopal churches. Bishops will go on retreat togeth- that United Methodists, Episcopa- top clergy leaders of The United United Methodist Church is enter- The agreements are interim er Oct. 3-4 in Chicago. lians and Lutherans are all part of Methodist Church have approved ing into separate agreements with steps toward full communion, in The interim shared communion the body of Christ, he said. “Our interim agreements for sharing the each of the denominations. which The United Methodist agreements authorize and urge oneness is in Christ. So these Eucharist with two other mainline “We will be entering those Church and each of the other de- United Methodist congregations agreements are not just about shar- denominations -- the Episcopal agreements within a year,” said nominations recognize the authen- “to worship and to be in study and ing communion with each other; Church and the Evangelical Luth- Bishop William B. Oden, ecumen- ticity of each other’s ministries mission with our two sister de- they’re about our recognizing that eran Church in America. ical officer of the United Method- and agree that their ministries are nominations,” Oden said. we are a part of one body of Christ The approval came May 5, dur- ist council. Oden has been in- reconciled. “This is a historic time of be- and thus one mission for Christ in ing the United Methodist Council volved in dialogues between the “The plan is for us to enter into ing the body of Christ and con- this world.” of Bishops’ weeklong spring United Methodist Church and the full communion with the Luther- necting the gifts of various parts The agreements are “a major meeting in Arlington, Va. other denominations. ans at the General Conference of of the body so that the work and point in the pathway to full com- The agreements, if approved “This is highly significant,” he 2008 and with the Episcopalians witness of Christ can be more ef- munion, in which we recognize later this year by the Lutheran and said. This would be the first time at the General Conference of fective and powerful in our com- the authenticity and apostolicity of Episcopalian lawmaking assem- The United Methodist Church has 2012,” Oden said. munities,” said Bishop Peter each other’s ministry,” Oden said. blies, would result in those had such a shared communion with Studying and fellowship will Weaver, president of the council “This is not a movement to- churches and The United Method- any group outside the Methodist occur in the interim. Oden noted and leader of the denomination’s ward church union, but affirms ist Church sharing worship, par- tradition of the African Methodist that 15 members of the Council Boston Area. each denomination’s uniqueness ticularly communion, studying Episcopal, African Methodist Epis- of Bishops and 15 members of the The communion table is the while we worship and work to- with one another and being in- copal Zion and Christian Method- Episcopal Church’s House of fundamental place for expressing gether.” Hoosier United INTERFAITH Methodists 11 www.inareaumc.org together United Methodist and Islamic communities in North Indiana sponsor joint medical relief efforts A Together special report Hospitals delight in donating their To East Jerusalem from North- west Indiana is the routing of the surplus instead of disposing of them in a most recent container load of hos- landfill. pital supplies dispatched by the Children of Abraham, Inc. In its – Champ Merrick short history, this organization, sponsored by the United Method- plies are for the most part ab- Equipment received has includ- ist Calumet District, the First Unit- sorbed by volunteers. ed labor and delivery beds, infant ed Methodist Church of Ham- The medical supplies and warmers, bassinets, blood pres- mond, Ind. and the Northwest In- equipment are secured from the sure stands, examination tables, diana Islamic Center, has sent mil- surpluses of Chicago and North- infant scales, suction pumps, neo- lions of dollars of hospital equip- west Indiana area hospitals, clin- natal incubators, gurneys, over- ment and medical supplies to ics and physician offices. Volun- bed trays, Glucometer testing ma- countries around the world. teers pick up these items, sort and chines, autoclave units, EKG ma- The current shipment to the painstakingly inventory them for chines, enteric pumps, photother- Makassed Hospital in Mount of storage in the 2,200-square-foot apy units, lots of wheelchairs, Olives, East Jerusalem, was pre- warehouse. Hospitals and clinics crutches, walkers and more. ceded by shipments to Afghanistan, in needy countries around the Not only are supplies secured Iraq and to Methodist facilities in world are contacted and lists of from hospitals, but a significant Bolivia, Ghana, Iraq, Liberia, this inventory provided. Once they partner is the United Methodist- Photo courtesy of First UMC, Hammond, Ind. Mozambique, Sierra Leone and determine what is useable in their related Midwest Mission Distribu- United Methodist and Muslim voluteers work hand-in-hand to gather Zimbabwe. A container load is now situation, the packing and ship- tion Center in Chatham, Ill. near medical equipment and supplies to send to a hospital on the Mount of Olives in East Jurusalem, Israel. ready for dispatch to Nigeria. Most ping process begins. Springfield. Through the center, of these shipments are made in 40- Shipping costs are significant Children of Abraham also has be- Such a Christian-Islamic orga- purposes this shipment might also foot shipboard containers, with the and financed fully by donations come partners with the Catholic- nization drew the attention of help foster a greater trust among value of each ranging from from those who care and believe related Sister of St. Francis of former Indiana Bishop Woodie W. people of different religious back- $250,000 to $500,000. in reaching out to the afflicted, the Springfield. White for during his retirement grounds, promoting peace in Of these shipments, some are poor and war-ravaged people. The volunteer base, board com- sermon to the North Central Ju- Jerusalem, a city whose name sent in cooperation with and at the “Hospitals delight in donating position and the financial support risdictional Conference last year, means peace.” request of the United Methodist their surplus instead of disposing comes from both Christian and Is- he sited this cooperative endeav- Children of Abraham has a General Board of Global Minis- of them in a landfill,” said Champ lamic communities. “It is a perfect or as the one thing giving him “in- self-imposed mandate to seek out tries as they aid hospitals in the Merrick, president of Children of combination” says Imam Mougy spiration and hope for the future areas of need and respond to them revitalization stage of disasters. Abraham. ElQuesny, vice president of Chil- of the church.” That is a testimo- as it has the resources and capa- Others were sent with the support The type of supplies represent dren of Abraham, and of the North- ny shared by many. bility to fulfill the medical needs and cooperation of the Indiana many items used in a modern-day west Indiana Islamic Center. Speaking about the most recent of others. The area hospitals, clin- United Methodist based Operation hospital, including an abundance “The United States was more shipment, Calumet District Super- ics and other medical agencies Doctor/Operation Classroom. of syringes, dressings, bandages, accepting of a Christian church’s intendent David Schrader, also a have been extremely cooperative Children of Abraham, a volun- catheters, sutures, cardiac surgery effort to aid the area and Muslims board member and key participant in advising us of the availability teer organization with no paid supplies, gloves, swabs, surgical in Iraq were more accepting of in development of this organiza- of surplus supplies. staff, functions from warehouse masks, infant and adult resuscita- supplies and equipment given by tion, observed “That Children of “We always stand ready to re- space donated by a local Munster, tors, endoscopy supplies, surgical an Islamic group,” said ElQuesny. Abraham shipping a container of spond immediately when notified Ind. company. This year, howev- supplies and so on. Recently, one The Children of Abraham board medical supplies to Jerusalem is of the availability of equipment er, space is to be rented at nomi- local hospital donated eight large itself is comprised of not only of significant for that (place) is a spir- and supplies. The area from which nal cost and funded by individu- boxes of surgical instruments, list- United Methodists and Muslims, itual home for all of the prophet supplies are secured ranges from al, church and mosque donations. ing “surplus” for the reason of re- but also includes partners from the Abraham’s children. We simply Chicago to Springfield, Ill. and to The costs of picking up the sup- placement. Roman Catholic Church. pray that in addition to its relief Fort Wayne, Ind.,” said Merrick. United Methodist group to promote dialogue with Muslims By Linda Bloom dress to members. in Israel, – they’re all of the devil” – is the according to Fleming. Those As an example, he cited the talked with most tragic characteristic of funda- guidelines include cultivating re- NEW YORK (UMNS) – United debate in Europe regarding Tur- commis- mentalists, according to Fleming. spect, standing for balance and Methodists hope to initiate a dia- key’s application to the European sion mem- It is the characteristic that de- fair play, and empathizing toward logue with Muslims through the Union, with the backdrop of Eu- bers about fined the 19 men who undertook an attitude of reconciliation. denomination’s interfaith agency. rope’s secularization and the fostering the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks in New Interfaith goals also must be Members of the General Com- growing influence of Islam there. interfaith York and Washington, he noted. demonstrated, both through poli- mission on Christian Unity and In- “The situation in the United dialogue. “For the hyper-fundamentalists, cies and attitudes, he said. terreligious Concerns voted dur- States is not as stark as it is in Eu- Whether my enemies are God’s enemies.” Christianity itself is changing, ing the April 21-24 spring meet- rope, but our reality calls for dia- Christian, The commission’s task, Fleming Pickens pointed out in his address, ing to pursue such a dialogue, ei- logue and interaction with Muslim Muslim or Fleming said, is to help church members drop which means a reconfiguration of ther through the National Coun- communities,” Pickens said. Jewish, reli- judgmental attitudes toward people the ecumenical movement as a cil of Churches or on their own. The United Methodist General gious fundamentalists share four of other faiths and not compare “the whole. Given the current climate of Conference, the denomination’s top things in common, he said. They are good points of your religion to the “It is clear that in terms of terrorism and religious violence, legislative body, encourages such “hyper-fundamentalist,” being in- bad points of other religions.” church growth and vitality, the lo- “the way in which Christians and dialogues. A resolution on “Our tolerant of other religions and tak- The first principle of interfaith cus of Christianity is in Africa and Muslims re- Muslim Neighbors” urges all de- ing a literal view of scripture “with dialogue is being able to agree that Latin America,” he said. “This is lated is sig- nominational agencies “to initiate one interpretation only;” do not ac- what is important to one faith also creating a changing dynamic with- nificant,” conversations, programs and dia- cept a woman in a place of religious is acknowledged as important to in The United Methodist Church as the Rev. logues leading to the understand- authority over a man; accept the au- the other. As an example, he com- well as for our ecumenical partners. Larry Pick- ing of both Islam and Christianity, thoritarian, unquestioned male rule pared when and for how long With this dynamic comes the need ens, the and appreciation of their particular of a pastor or priest, iman or rabbi; Christians, Jews and Muslims for developing a strong partnership commis- gifts, while discovering common- and have no interest in interreli- each were the majority population between the West and Christians in sion’s chief alities and differences and seeking gious understanding. in the Holy Land. Latin America and Africa.” executive, areas of mutual cooperation.” This lack of interest in under- The majority faith, whichever Linda Bloom is a United Meth- pointed out Jim Fleming, director of the standing other religions-or the feel- it is, must follow several guide- odist News Service news writer in his ad- Pickens Biblical Resources Study Center ing that “any tradition not my own lines in dealing with the minority, based in New York. Hoosier United 12 Methodists FOCUS ON MILITARY CHAPLAINS together May/June 2005 Remembering the chaplains of the Second World War 60 years later Photos from Chaplains of Wood, Mo. His final year of chaplaincy was spent in day as casualties.” The Methodist Church in World War II Japan. They spent two Entering Germany after the war, he said he vividly re- weeks onboard be- By Daniel R. Gangler members the destruction he saw everywhere. He said, “Ger- fore getting to doc- many looked like a hurricane had gone through it.” He tors in Hawaii for Sixty years ago this month, the Second World War end- also was saddened by the poverty he experienced in Korea treatment. ed in Europe. A rich part of the war’s history includes the during his last tour of duty. He vividly recalls role of more than 10,000 ordained ministers who volun- Returning to Indiana in 1957, he was appointed to Ma- caring for Sgt. tarily became chaplains in the armed forces. Of those thou- ple Hill Church in Indianapolis. Charles Carter sands, 88 former Methodists and Evangelical United Breth- An important link between the then and now is his Anderson Jr., the ren pastors answered their call to country and to God and daughter, the Rev. Judi Purvis, senior pastor of Linden ship captain’s son, served around the world. United Methodist Church in the Indianapolis West Dis- who was mortally Today, three of those chaplains, now retired United trict and incoming Vincennes District Superintendent. wounded in the bat- Methodist ministers, live on. They include the Revs. tle of Iwo Jima. Af- Ralph Blodgett, George Dinwiddie and John Wolf. A George Dinwiddie, now age 93 and living in Spur- ter the battle, he re- fourth, the Rev. Charles Ball is assumed to be alive, but gin, Mich., entered the Army Air Corps as a chaplain in called burying him Together did not have adequate information to contact April 1941 at the age of 35. He served through 1946. He with others on Iwo him. To reflect upon their chaplaincy experience dur- spent the first year on an air base in Connecticut and Jima. (See side bar ing the 1940s and ’50s, Together interviewed each of served overseas in North Africa, Italy and Sicily with the story.) the three to see where they are today and what they did 64th Troop Carrier Group. He returned to the United Wolf said a diffi- as chaplains in World War II. States in 1944 and continued his cult part of the duty service until 1946 in eastern Illinois. was burying the In additon to burying the dead, chap- The oldest of the three, even Dinwiddie told Together by dead. He said he lains also officiated at weddings. when he enlisted, is Ralph phone form his home that he was didn’t like burials at sea and preferred land burials so their Blodgett, age 102, lives in Nobles- assigned to four squadrons of the bodies could be moved later to their home, or to a military ville, Ind. He left his Markle church Army Air Corps each having 13 cemetery such as Arlington National Cemetery in Virgin- at the age of 42. Even though he planes. As a chaplain he cared for ia. enlisted, before the end of the war the sick, held weekly services either “There were a lot of vacancies in Indiana parishes dur- to serve in the Army as a chaplain, in base chapels or out of doors, and ing the war,” said Wolf. He remembers that the Rev. Frank he didn’t leave Indiana until June buried the dead. Templeton, a pastor who didn’t go into the chaplaincy dur- 1945. He served 12 years in both As one of the most memorable ex- Dinwiddie ing the war, refused to accept any promotion during the Europe and the Pacific. periences of his tour of duty, he re- war.” Blodgett served his first year be- Blodgett members officiating with four other chaplains at a funeral Wolf further said that sometimes the conference kept in tween the United States and Europe service of 30 men killed in a plane crash. While walking contact with their chaplains overseas. “The Rev. W. T. as the lone chaplain on a Victory Ship based in Brooklyn, out of the cemetery, the chaplains were stopped by Gener- Jones, a South Indiana Conference superintendent never N.Y. He told Together in a phone interview that in his first al George Patton who admonished them for not marching failed to write those in the chaplaincy.” 12 months, he crossed the Atlantic Ocean 12 times from from a military funeral. After the war, Wolf continued in the chaplaincy and Brooklyn to the port of LaHavre, France on the English Dinwiddie returned home to Indiana in 1946 and mar- taught at the chaplain’s school at the College of William Channel. ried a high school girlfriend. He spent many years in the and Mary in Williamsburg, Va. The U.S. Maritime Commission built Victory Ships South Indiana Conference. Bishop Richard Raines later Wolf told Together that the chaplaincy played a vital (troop carriers) during the war. Each ship carried 2,000 appointed him to the North Indiana Conference. roll in World War II. Many of the soldiers were 17 and 18- troops and/or supplies. On board, Blodgett conducted year-old kids right out of high school. Within two weeks weekly worship services, counseled servicemen, as- John Wolf, youngest of the three of leaving home, they were in battle. “As chaplains we signed lay Catholics to conduct Catholic services and now 86 and living in Valparaiso, Ind, helped them face the reality of warfare and then took care buried the dead. entered the U.S. Navy right out of of their wounds. For our service, we received a medal for During his 12 years in the Army Chaplaincy, he crossed seminary. The Navy did not require taking care of the wounded,” he said. the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans a total of 51 times. three years of pastoral experience as All 88 chaplains went on to serve as Indiana pastors. From Brooklyn, Blodgett was transferred to the islands the Army did. There were 16 million Americans in the military during of the Pacific and was based out of Newport News, Va. Wolf told Together in a personal the Second World War. In 1949 he began three years of service in Germany interview, “What is significant is that accompanied by his family. He said he enjoyed these three no chaplain was drafted. In fact pas- years the most because it allowed him and his family to tors and seminarians were exempt tour Europe while he served. from military service. All World War Wolf Honor veterans Between 1953 and 1956 he was based at Fort Leonard II chaplains were volunteers.” After training, Wolf was as- by being patriots signed as chaplain in 1943 to the USS Frederick Funston, an attack for peace transport ship which carried troops By John Wolf in and out of battle. The ship spent the rest of 1943 transporting troops, Last October, I had a reunion with Dr. Peter engineers and rangers and was Brooks in Arlington Cemetery at the grave site based at Salerno, Italy and sailed off of Sgt. Charles Carter Anderson Jr. USMCR, Sec- the coasts of Italy and Sicily. In tion 12, Grave 5761. He was a friend and son of 1944, the ship was dispatched to the our navy “skipper,” Captian C.C. Anderson USN. Pacific. The Funston was involved Sixty years ago that Peter and I had stood side- in the invasion of Saipan, Guam, by-side ministering to the mangled body of a 19- Manus, Leyte and then embarked to year-old Carter. He died March 5, 1945, on his New Guinea. During the battle of father’s ship and I buried him on Iwo Jima the Iwo Jima, the Funston lay off the next day. The reunion was a tender moment of island throughout the assault and remembrance of a life that would have been an landed troops in February 1945. 81-year-old grandfather by now. Wolf remembers that the night On Memorial Day, we honor the Carters who before the invasion of Saipan, many have died for their country and we honor them soldiers were baptized and received best by being patriots for peace. Weekly worship services and Holy Communion were regualr duties of military chap- Holy Communion. “I recognized lains during the Second World War. some of these same guys the next Hoosier United FOCUS ON MILITARY CHAPLAINS Methodists 13 www.inareaumc.org together Indiana United Methodist A brief history of military chaplaincy in (Methodist & Evangelical United Brethren) The United Methodist Church Chaplains – World War II Division of Ordained Ministry General Board of Higher Education and Ministry 1941-1945 The United Methodist Church South Indiana Methodist Virgi1 Sexton Clergy in the Wesleyan Meth- the General Commission odist tradition have served as on Chaplains in the Conference 28 Fred Thornburg Herbert Van Vorce chaplains with the armed forces Armed Forces. This Lester Abel since the beginnings of our nation- agency, partially funded Harold Blakely Robert Wilburn Fred Wilde al history. Prior to World War I, by the Council of Bish- Amos Boren there was no formal structure be- ops, became the conduit Dahlgren Casey Northwest Indiana tween the faith community and the between the Protestant Van Ness Chappell government. In 1917, the Federal faith community and the Gilbert Curry Methodist Conference 11 Council of the Churches of Christ armed forces. The Com- Richard Denbo Charles Ball * in America, which included The mission on Chaplains George Dinwiddie * Paul Barker Methodist Church, established the moved its chaplains to Hugh Glenn Howard Davis General Commission on Army active duty through the Stanley Hendricks Mortimer Dean and Navy Chaplains. This agency General Commission on Chester Hughbanks Thomas Luke represented the participating de- Chaplains. Bryan Johnson Vernon Lallement nominations in selecting persons Francis Johnson Albert Northrop to serve as armed forces chaplains. 1968 Lemuel Johnson Russell Phillips A Methodist bishop was a part of In 1968, as a part of Grester Kemp Allen Rice the founding community. the uniting process of the Clarence Loveland John Sayre former Methodist and Carl McMillan Wilson Singer World War II Evangelical United Richard McRae In 1941 the Council of Bish- Brethren churches, the John Redmon Indiana Conference ops, realizing the critical condi- title and function of The Albert Schmitt A UMNS photo by Mike DuBose. EUB 4 tions facing the world, created the Commission on Chap- David Shepherd The slogan on the welcome mat at the U.S. Silas Decker Methodist Emergency Committee. lains was broadened to Merlin Schwein Army Chaplain Center and School in Ft. Jack- Victor Goodman Among its responsibilities was the become The Commis- Wilson Stickford son, S.C., reads “The fear of the Lord is the Robert McBride recruitment and endorsement of sion on Chaplains and Albert Swarens beginning of wisdom.” The Chaplain Officer Charles Noblitt military chaplains. By 1942 the Related Ministries. This Norbert Talbott Basic Course is a 12-week course that pre- need for large numbers of chap- expanded commission Boyd Tryon pares men and women to be Army chaplains. St. Joseph Conference lains led the Council of Bishops continued under the Carl Wirey From left are: Chaplain First Lieutenant EUB 8 to establish The Methodist Com- management of the John Wo1f * Michael T. Hollins, Chaplain Major Scott Ster- C.R. Hudson mission on Chaplains as one of its Council of Bishops. ling and First Lieutenant Cody J. Vest. E.E. Lefforge agencies, a location it held for the As a part of the major North Indiana Methodist A.H. Sholty next 30 years. The commission restructuring of church agencies di- into the life and work of the board. Conference 30 H.P. Abbott was charged with recruitment, rected by General Conference in Alfred Beall Otis Baker endorsement and pastoral support 1972, the Commission on Chap- Today James Bean R.H. Blackburn for Methodist chaplains. It’s first lains and Related Ministries was By action of The 1996 General Samuel Bell George Hinshaw chairman, Bishop Adna W. Le- separated from the Council of Conference, the Division of Chap- Paul Benedict Robert Hobson onard, was killed in 1943 in a Bishops and became the Division lains and Related Ministries has Ralph B1odgett * plane crash en route to Iceland to of Chaplains and Related Minis- became the Section of Chaplains Lewis Case White River Conference visit Methodist chaplains and their tries of the General Board of High- and Related Ministries of the Di- Clarence Collins EUB 7 troops. The tradition of using bish- er Education and Ministry. Fund- vision of Ordained Ministry, yet Norman Darling Milford Barrick ops to support chaplain ministry ing during the transition period was another step in the history of its Robert Fribley R.S. Miller still continues and without further severely limited. special role. Arthur Giles A.R. Jansen episcopal fatalities. The movement of the agency to For more information about Ralph Graham Harold Shoemaker About the same time, the Meth- Nashville in 1980 from Washing- chaplaincy, log on to the United P.E. Greenwalt J.R. Sinunermon odist Church helped lead the ma- ton where it has been since 1942 Methodist Endorsing Agency Web Carlton Harrod Forest Stickler jor twelve Protestant denomina- regularized the division in its rela- site at www.gbhem.org/chaplains Elmo Hawkins James Turnbull tions in the United States in the tionship with the General Board of or call 615-340-7411 or write P.O. F.R. Hill formation of the General Commit- Higher Education and Ministry and Box 340007, Nashville, TN A.C. Hoover tee on Chaplains, later to become allowed it complete integration 37203-0007. Edwin Jaycox Summary Charles Jennings South Indiana ...... 28 E.B. Martin North Indiana ...... 30 Elbert Morford Northwest ...... 11 Current United Methodist George Oborn Indiana EUB ...... 4 Charles Pegram White River EUB ...... 7 Travis Purdy St. Joseph EUB ...... 8 chaplaincy facts and figures Ralph Rogers Total ...... 88 Current number of UM chaplains endorsed 99 in 2004 and has 57 pending, which * Living Frederick Ruder 586 endorsed military chaplains means they are endorsed, but not yet employed. This list was compiled by John Wolf. 600 endorsed civilian chaplains 227 approvals for a total of 1,278. Current Indiana military chaplains Devotional book has served South Indiana Conference World War II and Iraq War United Methodist chaplains William J. Caple, Randolf-Macon Military deployed to Iraq or Afghanistan Academy, Va. Strength for Service To God and Country was a daily Michael Gore, student at the Naval War devotional “for Those in the Service” edited by Chap- This number fluctuates daily. To date there are 78 deployed; some have returned and some College, Middletown, R.I. lain Norman E. Nygaard and published by the Abing- Michael R. Warner, Sr. Protestant don-Cokesbury Press of New York and Nashville. have gone. The agency is sending phone cards Chaplain, Kadena AFB, Okinawa, Japan This1942 publication included devotions of prominent to 33 chaplains to help military personnel keep Protestant ministers for each day of the year. A re- contact with their families back home. North Indiana Conference vised version of Strength for Service to God and Country was published Robert A. Church, Command Captain, in 2002. The book contains 365 devotions written by leading Protes- Number of United Methodists in the United States Navy, El Centro, Calif. tant ministers in 1942 and more than 40 contemporary contributions process of becoming chaplains Sources: UMC Endorsing Agency and Indiana conference journals from women, Jewish and Islamic writers, Roman Catholic clergy, and The agency has endorsed 23 people in 2005, African-American leaders. The book can be ordered through Cokesbury by calling 800-672-1789 or by logging on to www.cokesbury.com. Hoosier United 14 Methodists GLOBAL MISSION together May/June 2005 Liberia’s Ganta Hospital celebrates one year of success By Mary Zigbuo medical needs and challenges. hospital construction project will Over the past year, the hospital The restoration of most of its services has take several years. GANTA, Liberia – Ganta United increased its service options from Those who desire to send funds Methodist Hospital celebrated its provision of emergency care to enabled the hospital to respond to a great to assist with our ongoing program first year of re-opening on April provision of elective surgeries, variety of medical needs and challenges. needs through the General Ad- 14, after the 2003 period of civil prenatal care, laboratory services, vance, may use the following Ad- unrest that brought about much out patient services, in-patient ser- vance Special numbers: Ganta destruction and pervasive looting vices (80 bed capacity),and eye United Methodist Hospital Emer- general surgeries and one is an oph- al sized washer and dryer units, and of all hospital facilities. The hos- clinic, including eye related sur- gency Fuel #09214A; Ganta Unit- thalmologist), 31 nurses, 29 nurse an autoclave. It is still sterilizing pital was closed for a period of geries. The Primary Health Care ed Methodist Hospital Emergen- aides, three mid-wives, one physi- its equipment outside on a porch fourteen long months. Project has partially re-opened. cy Support # 10010T; Ganta Unit- cian assistant, lab technicians, other in large pressure cookers over a Since the re-opening of the hos- The Dental Clinic also is open. ed Methodist Mission Station, technicians, and other various sup- very large charcoal burner. The pital, five work teams have come Capital # 14369T. port and administrative staff. The hospital also is in need of an anes- to assist with renovation and ser- The hospital is thankful for the Staff increased to 112 hospital is blessed with a commit- thesia machine, suction machine, vice revitalization. The hospital donation of an X-ray machine that When the hospital re-opened in ted and hard working staff. cauterizing machines, triple beam continues to receive many gener- is currently en-route on an ocean- April 2004, there were 45 employ- The hospital continues to gen- balance, blood chemistry machine ous donations of essential supplies freight container from the North ees. Due to the increased numbers erate enough funds to take care of (for testing liver and kidney func- and equipment through several Carolina Conference. of patients and service options, as monthly payroll equivalent to ap- tion), hematocrit centrifuge, hema- ocean freight containers. Also, an ocean freight contain- well as the need to resume a three- proximately $10,000, as well as trocrit tube sealer and blood bank. The restoration of most of its er of medical supplies is currently shift schedule, the staff has in- meet some other general hospital The hospital invites anyone services has enabled the hospital being prepared to be sent from the creased to 112 employees. This in- expense. The hospital is dependent who desires to come and assist as to respond to a great variety of United Methodist Church in Ger- cludes three doctors (all gifted in upon external funds to pay the doc- individual or group volunteers in many. tors, partially fund the purchase of mission. Lodging facilities to The hospital staff is thankful to fuel for electrical generator, and house a group of up to ten persons the United Methodist Committee partially fund the purchase of drugs. is available. on Relief for its quarterly support The hospital has ongoing ren- of $12,000 which enables us pur- ovation needs and renovates as Plan to break ground in chase drugs and fuel; as well as funds become available. Current- August other UMCOR grants that enabled ly, the adult ward is undergoing Bishop Innis and members of the renovation of some essential some basic renovation. the Liberia United Methodist Con- areas of the facility. UMCOR Christofell Blinden Mission ference are spear-heading a fund Emergency Response also provid- donated funds to build a new eye raising rally to enable us to break ed a 20 ft. ocean freight container hospital, which is currently under ground in August 2005 for the of school and health kits. construction. A library building construction of a new hospital. At The hospital is thankful to Op- has just been completed. The hos- the last session of the Liberia Con- eration Classroom based in Indi- pital still needs to renovate staff ference, it was recommended and ana and for its continuous support residences as well as the burned approved that a new hospital through donations of funds and drug room and out patient depart- building be constructed. supplies. ment. The hospital has outgrown The current building was built Mary Zigbuo serves as hospi- its temporary areas currently used during the 1950s and cannot ade- tal administrator at the Ganta A UMNS photo by David Sadoo to house the out patient department quately accommodate the large United Methodist Hospital in Victor Taryor works in the Ganta Hospital lab, which serves more than and drug storage room-pharmacy. numbers of patients attending the Liberia. She can be contacted by 450,000 Liberians. The hospital needs an industri- hospital on a daily basis. The new e-mail at [email protected]. UMCOR allocates $1 million to Sudan start-up work By Linda Bloom olent attacks. third of the start-up budget comes The World Food Programme from a $311,448 grant from Ging- STAMFORD, Conn. (UMNS) – recently announced it would be hamsburg United Methodist Responding to the humanitarian forced to cut the rations of more Church in Tipp City, Ohio. That crisis in the Sudan, the United than a million victims of fighting money, according to Maxi, will be Methodist Committee on Relief in Darfur, beginning in May, to used for agriculture work, includ- has approved a $1 million-plus help stretch food supplies through ing seeds, tools and agricultural start-up budget for work in this Af- the summer. extension activities. rican country. Planting began in late April, The budget will cover person- Target South Darfur with harvesting expected in Sep- nel, equipment and operations UMCOR’s work will target the tember. costs and program activities. UM- people of South Darfur, where COR directors approved the fund- fewer humanitarian services are Donation to Sudan ing request during the April 11-14 available, and focus on agricul- Bishop Bruce Ough of West spring meeting of the United ture, small-scale livelihoods and Ohio, an UMCOR director, ex- Methodist General Board of Glo- distribution of non-food items. plained how the church’s donation bal Ministries, the agency’s par- Marc Maxi, UMCOR’s regional for the Sudan work came about. ent organization. director for Africa and the Carib- “The pastor challenged the Sudan remains a priority for the bean, said the coordinating team congregation to take half of what A UMNS photo by Hege Opseth, NCA/ACT International. board, according to the Rev. R. in the Sudan is “fully assembled.” they normally would spend for Amma Luise lives in a camp for internally displaced persons near Wau, in Randy Day, its chief executive. In The agency’s head of mission Christmas presents and give it to the Darfur region of Sudan, in this 2004 file photograph. Her brother March, the United Nations esti- has established an office in Khar- this offering,” he said. and sister were killed during the fighting in the region. The United Meth- mated that at least 180,000 peo- toum, Sudan’s capital city, where A grant of $204,000 from odist Committee on Relief is starting an agriculture program and distrib- ple died in the Darfur region dur- the finance director and adminis- Neighbors in Need, a German uting non-food items in South Darfur. ing the previous 18 months be- trative, logistics and security man- donor group, will be used for non- cause of illness and malnutrition. ager also are based. The emergen- food items such as cooking pots $337,250 in funding from dona- Emergency,” Advance No. Up to 2 million have been dis- cy coordinator has set up a field and blankets, he said. tions to UMCOR’s Advance for 184385, can be dropped in church placed because of fighting be- office in Al Daein in South Darfur. “We consider what we’re do- the Sudan Emergency and offering plates or mailed to UM- tween Sudanese government forc- Initial work will focus on about ing now as an investment to le- $177,714 from the Helen Shep- COR, P.O. Box 9068, GPO, New es and rebel groups. Amnesty In- 250 families in the Ed Al Fursan verage more financing,” Maxi herd Fund, a board-related bequest York, NY 10087-9068. ternational estimates that perhaps community south of Nyala, the added. for food security. Credit-card gifts can be made 50,000 people have died from vi- capital of South Darfur. About a The project also has received Donations for the “Sudan toll-free by calling 800-554-8583. Hoosier United GLOBAL MISSION Methodists 15 www.inareaumc.org together United Methodists give $32.4 million for tsunami aid By Linda Bloom vance for tsunami relief has been cy relief supplies and medicine, ference has given $50,235 and the al Council on Finance and Admin- unprecedented both in terms of the the United Methodist Committee South Conference has given istration and treasurer of the Ad- STAMFORD, Conn. (UMNS) – amounts and the volume of gifts on Relief is organizing projects for $73,185 to this project.Indiana vance, said she would talk to her United Methodists have donated received,” Fernandes reported. long-term rehabilitation with a United Methodists have given board of directors about covering $32.4 million for South Asia tsu- The Advance is the denomina- variety of partners, including more than $909,250 to date for some of the additional processing nami relief. tion’s outlet for voluntary or “sec- Methodists in Indonesia and Sri South Asia Tsunami relief. expenses. The new total, which includes ond-mile” giving. Lanka and Church World Service. The response has been so great, The option of online giving was gifts received from late December United Methodists began to The North Indiana Conference according to Fernandes, that board promoted for the tsunami relief. through the end of March, was respond soon after the Dec. 26 has given to date $352,491. The staff has been under significant Of the total through March, $1.9 announced by Roland Fernandes, earthquake and tsunami devastat- South Indiana Conference has giv- pressure to process all the gifts. million was received through on- treasurer of the General Board of ed parts of several South Asia na- en to date $433,343. Indiana Bish- So far, he told directors, items line gifts, Fernandes reported. Global Ministries, at the start of tions, including Indonesia, Sri op Michael J. Coyner also has such as staff overtime and bank “GCFA has since approved a the board’s April 11-14 spring Lanka and India, leaving hundreds pledged that the Indiana Area will and online processing have cost churchwide policy for online giv- meeting. of thousands of people dead or give $150,000 to rebuild the an additional $156,000. ing,” he added. “We are working “The tremendous outpouring of missing. Methodist Church in Banda Aceh, Sandra Lackore, chief execu- on moving to online giving for the gifts received through the Ad- Besides dispatching emergen- Indonesia. To date the North Con- tive of the denomination’s Gener- entire Advance.” Africa University in Zimbabwe appoints four new deans By Andra Stevens tiveness and the sustainability of bwe, in collaboration with Michi- its operations.” gan State University. MUTARE, Zimbabwe (UMNS) – Thokozile Chitepo and the Rev. Ilunga, a Congolese-American, The board of directors of United Beauty Maenzanise have been ap- served as acting dean of faculty of Methodist-related Africa Univer- pointed deans of the faculty of hu- management and administration sity has made school history by manities and social sciences and for eight months before being appointing women as two of its the faculty of theology, respective- named to his post. An economist, four new academic deans. ly. Both women are Zimbabweans. he took over leadership of the busi- All four appointees came from Also named as deans were Fanuel ness faculty in July. He joined the within the university, and naming Tagwira, agriculture and natural university’s faculty in 1996 and female deans is a first for the 13- resources, and Jean-Gilbert Ilunga, has been a contributor to program year-old institution. The directors, management and administration. and outreach activities. He aims to meeting April 5-7, appointed deans Chitepo is interested in using position the business school bet- for the faculties of agriculture and research to drive solutions and ter to help African nations strug- natural resources; humanities and knowledge of social issues in Af- gling with issues of privatization, social sciences; management and rica. She joined the staff in 2004 productivity and efficiency. administration; and theology. as acting dean of the faculty of UMNS photo courtesy of Africa University. United Methodist-related Africa Rukudzo Murapa (third from left), vice chancellor of Africa University, Atha- University is in Mutare, Zimbabwe. “These appointments have come humanities and social sciences nasius Mphuru, deputy vice chancellor (far right), share a moment with at an important juncture in the life and was confirmed by the board four new deans. Pictured (from left) are Jean-Gilbert Ilunga, Thokozile Chite- The university opened in March of this institution,” said Rukudzo of directors, effective April 7. She po, Murapa, the Rev. Beauty Maenzanise, Fanuel Tagwira and Mphuru. 1992 and offers undergraduate and Murapa, the university’s vice chan- has more than 15 years of experi- postgraduate degrees and diplomas cellor. “Africa University is an ac- ence in the development sector, Madison, N.J. In 1998, she was and natural resources since 2004. in a range of disciplines, including knowledged leader in higher edu- working with local, regional and identified as a promising scholar/ A soil scientist, he joined Africa agriculture and natural resources, cation on the continent. We want international organizations. leader and supported by the Unit- University as a senior lecturer in education, health sciences, human- to stay in the forefront with rele- Maenzanise returned to Zimba- ed Methodist General Board of 1992. He holds a bachelor’s de- ities and social sciences, manage- vant programs and a cutting-edge bwe last July to join the faculty of Higher Education and Ministry gree in chemistry and biology ment and administration, peace, approach to service delivery. theology at Africa University. She with a United Methodist Women from the National University of leadership and governance and the- “The board has expressed its is the first African woman to hold of Color Scholarship. She holds Lesotho, a master’s degree in soil ology. It has more than 1,200 stu- confidence in these individuals as a doctorate in liturgical studies, advanced degrees from Drew Uni- chemistry from the University of dents from 20 African countries. key actors in ensuring the success earned at the Caspersen School of versity. Reading in England, and a doc- Andra Stevens is director of of strategic new initiatives to en- Graduate Studies at United Meth- Tagwira had served as acting torate in soil chemistry and fertil- information and public affairs at hance Africa University’s effec- odist-related Drew University in dean of the faculty of agriculture ity from the University of Zimba- Africa University. AU Institute of Peace names director European United Methodists elect new The Institute of Peace, Lead- the major problems of Africa. ership and Governance (IOLG) The new director will seek for- bishop for central, southern Europe at Africa University in Zimba- mal linkage with the African bwe has a new director, Dr. Guy Union, internationalizing the in- are the parents of four children. United Methodist News Service Martin, who will begin his du- stitute’s student base and increas- Ordained to the ministry in 1984, he has been the ties in May or June. Martin ing the unit’s capacity to serve as A new bishop has been elected to lead the United pastor of congregations in Lausanne, Neuchatel, and hopes to give Africa a chance to a research and training center in Methodist Church’s Central Conference of Central Biel, Switzerland. He has been in charge of the Meth- build the profile on the continent areas of concern in Africa such as and Southern Europe. odist Center for Theological Education in French, and beyond. human rights, elections and good The Rev. Patrick Streiff, 49, located in Lausanne, and is also a lecturer on mod- The IOLG links issues of governing. Dr. Martin has a Ph.D. was consecrated during an ern church history at the Theological Faculty of the peace and security with leader- from Indiana University at Bloom- April 17 service at Bern Cathe- University of Lausanne. ship and governing. It serves all ington. dral in Switzerland. He will Streiff has close ties to the United Methodist succeed Bishop Heinrich Bol- General Board of Higher Education and Ministry, leter, who will formally retire of which he is a director, and to the denomination’s NIC collects tsunami health kits in May. General Board of Global Ministries. He has worked During the North Indiana An- lected Health Kits and take them Streiff was elected to a four- on a curriculum for French-speaking pastors in nual Conference session, organiz- to the UMCOR Depot. year term on the second ballot, West Africa sponsored by the two agencies and is ers are asking local churches to For more information, visit the receiving 66 of a possible 73 part of a team exploring the possibility of a French- engage in a collection to benefit North Indiana Conference 2005 votes, during the central con- Streiff language United Methodist hymnal. He has assist- the victims of the South East Asia Tsunami Relief page at ference meeting. The Central ed the mission board on a Book of Discipline tidal waves. Thousands of Health www.nicumc.org/in/annconf/ Conference of Central and Southern Europe includes (church law) for Cambodia. Kits are still needed to minister to tsunami.php. Please follow direc- 14 countries in Europe and North Africa. Countries covered by The United Methodist Church the victims of the devastated ar- tions closely and pack exactly A native of Switzerland, Streiff received his theo- in Central and Southern Europe are Albania, Algeria, eas. A truck from Sager Brown’s what is requested. Each kit is in- logical education at the United Methodist Semi- Austria, Bulgaria, Croatia, the Czech Republic, France, United Methodist Committee on spected for conformity that is ex- nary in Reutlingen, Germany and has a doctorate Hungary, Macedonia, Poland, Serbia-Montenegro, Relief (UMCOR) Depot in Bald- tremely important in the distribu- from the University of Bern. He and his wife, Heidi, Slovak Republic, Switzerland and Tunisia. win, La., is scheduled to take col- tion of the kits to needy people. Hoosier United 16 Methodists VIEWPOINTS together May/June 2005 Counting zeros or making disciples for Jesus Christ? By Darren Cushman Wood percent of his or her annual in- matter how offensive one may be come, a far cry from the biblical When someone says “yes” to to our middle-class sensibilities. Every crisis is an opportunity concept of tithing or ten percent. But when someone says “yes” to to change and grow. The United Second, last year at a gathering membership vows it should reflect a deeper membership vows, it should re- Methodist South Indiana Annual of senior ministers, David V.W. change in their life and it should be a real flect a deeper change in ones life Conference is in a financial crisis Owen shared with us a list of the and it should be a real celebration which, if approached with faith- top twenty churches in terms of celebration of their new life in Christ. of ones new life in Christ. The ful discern- average attendance and member- process leading up to this profes- ment, is an ship in the annual conference. The sion of faith should help one dis- opportunity chart compared the current list of discipleship we will keep get- ability prevents us from truly em- cover specific ways to express for us to with a list of the top twenty ting more of the same results, re- bracing visitors and guests who ones commitment to Christ change and churches from twenty years ago. gardless of whether we solve our are broken and hurting. They are through the church. The assimila- grow in our Even though there were many dif- current financial problems. looking for meaning and healing tion process should take place be- understand- ferences between the two lists, the but too often what they find in our fore membership leaving no gap ing of disci- one thing that had not changed was Deeper question of churches are people who feel un- between membership and active pleship. the ratio of average attendance to discipleship comfortable with their messy participation, including ones pat- In the membership. Across the board, in Our financial crisis is an oppor- lives. They may join and we may terns of giving. April 2005 Cushman Wood all of the churches, except one tunity for us to explore the deeper tolerate their presence, but we will We need to see membership as issue of To- (Jasper Shiloh), the average atten- question of discipleship. The bish- not assimilate them into our fel- a covenant of support and ac- gether, Kent Millard (senior min- dance was approximately 50 per- op’s proposal for an alternative lowship or leadership. Eventually countability. When one joins a ister of St. Luke’s UMC in India- cent of the membership. Even church tithing system might help they drift away with only a cou- United Methodist congregation, napolis) rightly pointed out that though the quantity of members take us in that direction, but we ple of people in the congregation membership should be very clear “we are experiencing the results has increased, the quality of mem- will miss the opportunity for a full- remembering their names. what he or she is affirming and our system is designed to pro- bership has not improved. er discussion if we only look at the A perverse equation of toler- what he or she is agreeing to do. duce.” We want to encourage We are still producing church financial and membership figures. ance and intolerance exists in our This is what newcomers long for churches to grow numerically but members with the same low level The real issue is how to make churches. We are not accepting of — and what many current mem- when they do their apportionments of commitment because we have the process of becoming a church newcomers and too accepting of bers loath. For many of us, laity increase. At the same time, this failed to integrate the meaning of member a part of the life-long pro- our long-time inactive members. and clergy alike, we long for this crisis calls into question whether membership with the meaning of cess of being a disciple. It sounds We expect newcomers to be trans- covenant. we are using our apportionment discipleship. Thus, you can join a like a stupid question until you formed into our image, but we are I don’t have an answer about dollars in the most effective way United Methodist congregation in look at our current practices. The unwilling to challenge our inac- how to do this and most days I am possible to help our local church- South Indiana with very little ex- typical United Methodist congre- tive members to be transformed groping around for such an an- es make disciples and to help us pected from you. gation will accept nearly anyone into the image of Christ. swer. But I want to be a part of an collectively be a witness for Christ We could solve our financial into membership after they have annual conference that yearns for in the world. And so our system problem by doing a better job of attended for a couple of months Acceptance and this covenant. creates a vicious cycle of discour- producing more of the same kinds and tolerated a few weeks with the transformation During annual conference in agement and frustration. of church members. At an aver- pastor in a membership class. Af- The balance between accep- June, we have an opportunity to But look deeper. Our finances age rate of two percent giving, all ter that you are on your own. tance and transformation is very talk about something more than reveal problems in our under- you need to do is expand your base About 20 percent of our new different for a disciple of Christ. money. With the proposed new standing of discipleship. Over the of givers and the financial prob- members will integrate the mean- You can see it in Wesley’s theolo- format for the annual conference past several years “making disci- lem is solved. In short, increased ing of membership into a vital re- gy. One the one hand, there is the session we have an opportunity to ples” has been the buzz word in quantity is one way to get us out lationship with Jesus Christ and radical acceptance of prevenient do this — if we are willing to tran- the denomination. It is the all-con- of the red. the other eight percent will lapse and justifying grace. God is infi- scend our anxiety over money. Let suming goal and underlying anxi- But getting out of the red is not into varying degrees of inactivity nitely patient with us and God ac- us conference about the meaning ety of The United Methodist our mission. Do we want more of with about half of them treating cepts us, as the hymn says, “just of discipleship and membership as Church. Yet, rarely do we define the same — more church members membership as nothing more than as I am, without one plea.” On the we talk about money. Let us see what it means to be a disciple. At with the same low level of com- funeral insurance. This leaves the other hand, there is the radical the deeper issues of this crisis as best, we banter about vague plati- mitment to disguise the spiritual church leadership with the awk- transformation of the new birth an opportunity to journey togeth- tudes that offend no one and re- crisis that is underneath this tem- ward task of removing people and sanctification. er toward a new understanding of veal nothing about the transforma- porary financial crisis? Friedrich from the membership rolls with- Our understanding of member- discipleship. tive quality of being a follower of Nietzsche once wrote, “What? out any clear standards. Our mid- ship and attendance should reflect Darren Cushman Wood serves Christ in our society. You search? You would multiply dle-class politeness prevents us this balance of acceptance and as senior pastor of Speedway Here are two examples that il- yourself by ten, by a hundred? You from challenging our inactive transformation. We should em- United Methodist Church in India- lustrate that we do not understand seek followers? Seek zeros!” members with the radical demands brace anyone who walks through napolis. He may be contacted by discipleship. First, the average Without a clear understanding of of discipleship. our doors, no matter how far ones e-mail at dcushwood@speedway- United Methodist gives about two the radically transformative nature This same veneer of respect- lifestyle is from the Gospel and no umc.org. Providing support, solace to the troops By Robert Crawford specially trained chaplain assis- ceive the Eucharist, find space for I was commissioned an officer in the tombs of the Chaldean kings tants. Spc. Tavern Smith is the our Muslim soldiers to pray, and the Army Reserve three years ago, made famous in the book of AN NASIRIYAH, Iraq (UMNS) man assigned to watch out for my get kosher MREs (meals ready to at an age most soldiers are thinking Daniel, and just beyond, a holy site – I serve in the second-oldest unit’s ministry team. eat) for my Jewish soldiers dur- of retirement. After many years of for three major religions: ruined Ur branch of the Army – the chap- The role of the chaplain is ing the High Holy Days. work in the church, I was seeking a and the birthplace of Abraham. lains’ corps – whose tradition somewhat different than you The toughest task I have had was different place to do ministry among Tallil is noteworthy for its res- dates back might think. Because our call is performing a brief ceremony on the a different group of people. I hoped idents: a multinational force that to 1775. rooted in the First Amendment runway tarmac for three young sol- my presence might provide comfort includes elements of the U.S. Air While I protection of freedom of speech, diers killed in a nearby town. and calm to those in a stressful and Force and Army and of our coali- am an offic- our primary duty is to ensure that I spend much of my day walk- dangerous environment. tion partners. er, I am also each soldier can worship in the ing around and visiting soldiers in My Athens (Ga.) Reserve unit The combination of war and the closest way that soldier sees fit. their various duties. I listen and was mobilized in February, and I faith can produce extraordinary mo- thing the Sometimes my work is similar offer counsel to those who are found myself at Tallil Air Base, ments – so many soldiers from so Army has to to my civilian job as a United Meth- struggling with the long deploy- just outside An Nasiriyah in south- many countries of different faiths, a civilian. odist pastor. I lead worship servic- ment, or issues at home. Small ern Iraq. all in the birthplace of Abraham. Under the es, offer prayers and teach classes. problems can grow large when On the margin of the base 1st Lt. Robert Crawford is a Geneva Crawford At other times, my work takes families are separated by 8,000 stands a ziggurat, a 4,500-year-old United Methodist pastor and re- Conven- me beyond my civilian parame- miles and a year away from home. brick structure built by the artisans servist on active duty in Iraq with tion, chaplains do not carry weap- ters. I work with a nearby priest Sometimes you just need someone of Sumer and predating the pyra- the Athens-based 357th Corps ons, but we do have protectors – to ensure my Catholic soldiers re- to listen. That’s why I came. mids of Egypt. In its shadow lie Support Battalion. Hoosier United VIEWPOINTS Methodists 17 www.inareaumc.org together

tors, nurses and other volunteers Katie can’t believe what she sees. Movie Review to travel to third-world countries The pamphlets Mr. Matthews to provide reconstructive facial shows them from Doctor’s Gift, Smile surgery to children with severe show children with severe cleft By Gregg Tubbs facial deformities. When his own lips, cleft palates and other defor- daughter went on just such a mis- mities. (UMCom) – Based on the true sion of mercy, Kramer was in- Smile also introduces us to Lin experiences of writer/director Jef- spired to write and direct this com- (Yi Ding), a Chinese girl, the frey Kramer and his own daugh- ing of age drama about the power same age as Katie, but whose life ter, Smile, chronicles the charita- of the human heart and how help- story has been marked by trage- ble work of the ing others can dy. Abandoned at a construction group Operation transform site, as a baby, Lin has been raised Smile, through Production Company: lives—both by the compassionate worker the eyes of two Dark Forest those who re- named Daniel (Luoyong Wang) very different Director: ceive the help, who found her. Although we and those who don’t see her face during the teenaged girls. Jeffrey Kramer Katie is a privi- give it. scene where she’s rescued, the leged, self ab- Principals: reactions of the two workers who Daniel (Luoyong Wang, left) and a factory co-worker (Conan Lee) discov- sorbed high Sean Astin, Beau Bridges, Comfortable find her tell us all we need to er an abandoned baby girl who is facially deformed. school student Luoyong Wang, Mika cocoon know. This scene captures all the from America. Boorem, Linda Hamilton Katie challenges Lin will face as she surgery a year earlier, has to be Smile is worth seeing, not be- Lin lives the life Rating: (Mika grows up. persuaded to leave the privacy cause it is the best written, best of a near-recluse PG-13 (sexuality and Boorem) lives Luckily, Lin has the love of her of her home and brave the insen- directed, or best acted of films, with her work- some language) in the com- adoptive father Daniel to shelter sitive crowds of Shanghai where which it is not. But it is worth ing class father fortable co- her and nurture her. But his devo- Doctor’s Gift has set up their seeing because of the quality of in urban China. coon of beau- tion comes at the price of losing clinic. While the outward change its core messages: that we need Their two lives converge, and for- tiful Malibu, California. She is the his own wife and son. to Lin’s face will improve her to appreciate the blessings in our ever change as “Doctor’s Gift” (a picture of outward beauty and life, the biggest change comes to lives, and try to help those who fictionalized version of Operation privilege, from her stylish clothes Bring two girls together Katie, who learns that “there’s are not as blessed. Smile) attempts to give Lin some- to her handsome boy friend. But Eventually, Doctor’s Gift will more to life than hassles with Gregg Tubbs is a freelance thing she has literally never had – inside she is callow and self-cen- bring these two girls together. parents and boyfriends.” In a writer living in Columbia, Md. a smile of her own. tered. When her student govern- Katie is so moved by their work sense, this is the story of a girl This review was developed by Operation Smile is a real orga- ment club is encouraged by their that she joins them on a mission who had earthly riches and out- UMC.org, the official online nization that helps provide fund- teacher Mr. Matthews (Sean As- to China. Lin, having tragically ward beauty, but was “spiritual- ministry of The United Method- ing and support that enables doc- tin) to adopt a charity to support, missed her first chance at facial ly poor.” ist Church. Commentary: Amid sad context, Liberia’s story inspires ed Methodists, responded quick- A UMNS Commentary Practicing Jesus’ By Dean Snyder and Jane Malone It has been 14 years since Liberia has ly with applause-happy to turn the teachings other cheek, happy for the oppor- The danger of visiting Liberia, had centralized electricity, water or sewage It was inspiring to watch Unit- tunity to pray and care for those as we did in February during the systems. ed Methodists practicing the teach- who had persecuted others. 2005 Liberia Annual Conference, ings of Jesus in the most demon- During our visit to the U.S. is that a visitor might easily con- strable ways. One of the many Embassy, we were disappointed to fuse the context with the story. olence was so widespread that, visited the annual conference to Liberian United Methodist institu- learn about waning U.S. financial The context is a nation that has when the United Nations finally thank Bishop John Innis and The tions damaged by warfare was support, as well as technical assis- experienced more than two de- arrived, more than 100,000 young United Methodist Church for their Ganta Hospital. Established in tance, for the redevelopment of cades of violence and years of people turned over weapons as critical role in rebuilding Liberia. 1926, the hospital served a major Liberia. There is no public health political and economic devasta- part of a pacification initiative. We stayed at the home of Ellen section of Liberia, as well as neigh- strategy, and no plan to redirect tion. It has been 14 years since Except for a few affluent Johnson Sirleaf, a member of the boring Guinea and Cote D’Ivoire. into renewed central electrification Liberia, once the jewel of West Liberians and those with resourc- First United Methodist Church of Its complex included primary and the funds being paid to foreign in- Africa, has had centralized elec- es from outside the country, edu- Monrovia and a leading candidate secondary schools, vocational terests to fuel generators as a tem- tricity, water or sewage systems. cation and medical care have been in a free and open presidential training, one of Liberia’s best nurs- porary source of electrical power. Buildings have either been de- practically nonexistent. Almost an election set for October. She and ing schools, a demonstration farm Meanwhile, businesses such as a stroyed in fighting between gov- entire generation is now without others have organized the Unity and a leprosy and tuberculosis care well-known U.S.-based tire man- ernment troops and rebels or have formal schooling. It is a sobering Party, which is mobilizing a pow- facility. Everything but the quaran- ufacturer are trying to take advan- deteriorated without occupants, land to visit. erful community of Liberians de- tine facility was destroyed by gov- tage of Liberia’s vulnerability by repairs or maintenance. But this is only the sad context, termined to establish an honest, ernment and rebel troops. cutting long-term sweetheart deals Until 2003, when former Pres- not really the story. accountable government after With the support of the United with the transitional government. ident Charles Taylor left Liberia years of corruption and abuse. Methodist Committee on Relief We have done this before. In in exile, most Liberians lived des- The real story Johnson Sirleaf is helping reg- and the Board of Global Minis- the 1980s, the United States sup- perate lives, focusing daily on sur- The real story is the Liberian ister women and others previous- tries, United Methodists of Liberia ported antidemocratic govern- vival and protecting themselves people’s determination to restore ly excluded from the political pro- began working to reopen Ganta as ments in Liberia in exchange for against extortion and robbery. their nation to health and vitality. cess. She is determined to make soon as the worst of the violence placing military installations there. Many were eager for the United The real story is the commitment sure Liberia’s resources provide ended in 2003. Local United Some Liberians fear we will again Nations and United States to help and sacrifice of Liberia’s United services and education for ordi- Methodists of the Goompa Dis- choose military and economic ex- end decades of civil war and ran- Methodists to reopen hospitals, nary people rather than lining the trict devoted weeks to cleaning up pediency over supporting the de- dom violence. clinics and schools and to regain pockets of the powerful. the damage. Finally the hospital velopment of democratic institu- Historically, since its founding democratic control of their gov- It is an inspiration to observe reopened in March 2004 with one tions there. We pray that, this time, with U.S. subsidy to support the ernment. This is an inspiring sto- this movement of Liberians who doctor and a nurse. (See page 14.) we will choose to support our sis- emigration of freed slaves, Liberia ry and a humbling one for us who believe in democracy with all their During annual conference, the ters and brothers of Liberia in their has been closer to the United have so much, need so much less hearts, who believe government director of Ganta Hospital report- longing for democracy. States than any other African na- and yet share so little. can be accountable and who are ed on the gradual re-establishment Dean Snyder and Jane Malone tion. Thus, Liberians could not At present, a transitional gov- willing to give themselves and all of services over the past year and are a United Methodist couple in the understand why their overseas ernment, established during peace they have to rebuild their govern- said more than half of those seek- Washington, D.C. area. Snyder is friend would drag its feet in sup- talks following Taylor’s decision ment. If only a critical mass of ing medical help are former gov- pastor of Foundry United Method- porting a United Nations pres- to step down as president, holds U.S. citizens cared this much ernment and rebel troops respon- ist Church and former editor of ence. The war killed more than power in Liberia. We had the good about our political processes and sible for the hospital’s destruction. UMConnection, the newspaper of 200,000 Liberians and produced fortune to sit with transitional the welfare of all our citizens, es- The members of annual confer- the Baltimore-Washington Annual more than a million refugees. Vi- President Gyude Bryant when he pecially our most marginalized. ence, some 1,200 Liberian Unit- Conference. Malone is a laywoman. Hoosier United 18 Methodists YOUTH & YOUNG ADULTS together May/June 2005 Program provides prom dresses to cash-strapped students By John Gordon “It’s a special day, but at the same time, it’s one of those days that we cannot afford The Blessed Dressed WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. (UMNS) — to pay out a lot of money for,” said Win- Teenagers dream for years about going to ston-Salem resident Ronda Mays, a single ministry furnishes prom the high-school prom. So a North Carolina parent with two daughters. “Because we dresses to more than 50 church wants to make sure costs don’t get have to put the deposit down for the dorm in the way of that magical evening. room, we have to get things for the dormi- girls each year. The Blessed Dressed ministry at Union tory.” Ridge United Methodist Church in Win- The idea came from Shannon Davis. Her ston-Salem lets students choose from hun- mother, the Rev. Cathy Davis, is the pastor le, admits to being “very picky” — but also dreds of prom dresses at no charge — a at Union Ridge United Methodist Church. found a dress on one of the church’s two real blessing for parents facing college costs Shannon was a junior in high school when shopping days during prom season. and other expenses. she found many of her classmates were not “Without this program, I probably going to the prom because wouldn’t go to the prom,” she said. “Dress- formal dresses can cost hun- es are too expensive, you can’t find your dreds of dollars each. She be- size and you can’t usually find something gan seeking donations of that you like.” dresses from church mem- The church even has an on-site seam- bers, clothing stores and oth- stress, Ann Patterson, who makes sure the ers in the community. dresses fit just right. “A lot of parents are get- “People that get the most blessings here ting laid off,” she noted. “I are the workers,” Patterson said. “We’re don’t think that girls should having more fun than the kids, if that’s pos- UMNS photo by Charles Hadlock. miss out or anybody should sible.” Ronda Mays (left) and her daughter, LaRon- miss out because they can’t While shoppers look through racks of da Mays-Soles, appreciate the chance to save afford to go. That’s not fair.” colorful dresses, one thing they will not find money by choosing a free prom dress at Since the program start- is red tape. There are no restrictions on who Union Ridge United Methodist Church in Win- ed three years ago, members receives the dresses. ston-Salem, N.C. have renovated the third “We don’t say, ‘You have to make less floor of the church for Sh- than this,’ or whatever,” Davis said. “We Besides the dresses, students can choose annon’s Closet, with storage just say, ‘If you need something, come, one accessory such as jewelry, shoes or a and shopping areas as well we’ll provide it for you.’” shawl. Several businesses provide free dry- as fitting rooms. The Blessed Dressed ministry furnishes cleaning services for the dresses. Restau- “It’s like a dream come prom dresses to more than 50 girls each rants also donate prom-night meals, which true,” said Lisa Mickle, a year. More than 300 dresses are on the racks are given away in a drawing. 17-year-old high-school se- — some used, repaired and cleaned, others Church members encourage the girls to behave responsibly on prom night. The girls UMNS photo by Charles Hadlock. nior who found her prom new. Some are even handmade. Shannon Davis came up with the idea of offering free prom dress at the church. “It’s like “There are tears of joy,” Davis said. receive crosses made of ribbon to keep with dresses to students in the Winston-Salem, N.C., area. The a queen at night. You get “One mother told us last year she had a jun- them. ministry at Union Ridge UMC furnishes prom dresses to more treated like a princess.” ior and a senior, and she said, ‘Without this, Gordon is a freelance producer and writ- than 50 girls each year. Her sister, Leslie Mick- my girls would not be able to attend prom.’” er in Marshall, Texas. Putting Hearts in Motion for worship SELLERSBURG, Ind. – Sellersburg United Methodist Church has been blessed with li- turgical dance for more than a year. Looking back the group thought they would never learn the first song that included sign language, movement and dance. Now they learn the signs and movement in hours versus days. They chose the name, Hearts in Motion (It’s All About HIM). Things really changed after that. They sat together during services, eager- ly asked to do more week after week, rehearsed tirelessly. Then two of the girls attended Chrys- alis. They returned with a greater focus for their contribution to the church. Understanding their role in worship and the need to reach out to more youth, the group started to grow. Hearts UMNS photo courtesy of Shauna Fleming. in Motion Too was added letting younger girls Teen promotes National be more active. Sarah Goodwin, Danielle Moore, and Katie Military Appreciation Month Harper (HIM) are a big part of the process of Shauna Fleming, a 16-year-old United Methodist who lives in California, is putting movement and sign to each event se- This song was a highlight of the Easter season. The song sung by our own Angie Graf of the Living Water Trio, the the spokesperson for National Military Appreciation Month. Congress des- lection. They take pride in helping the young- ignated May as National Military Appreciation Month last year. Fleming hand- er girls work on projects. The roles they have sign/movement and fabric was a visual representation of the love of Jesus. ed out thank you letters to Army reservists at the Talladega Superspeedway accepted as leader is proof of their growth spir- in Alabama May 1. She also gave out a wristband inscribed with “Pray For itually and as a contributing part of their church Our Troops.” The wristbands are available from www.DefendingFreedom.net family. about evangelism. with proceeds going to help soldiers’ families. Later this month, Fleming They organized a community wide worship ser- In the life of the church, our young people bring will be speaking at Light of the Canyon United Methodist Church in Or- vice for area youth called, “We are the Body” and a fresh outlook, a renewing spirit, and an open heart. ange, Calif. and telling her church family “any one can make a differ- challenged youth groups to join them by hosting their Sellersburg United Methodist Church is teeming with ence.” Last year she started a campaign to collect and send a million own services on a rotating schedule. The third ser- new ideas, ways for young people to express their thank you notes to America’s military service men and women. She’s vice is scheduled in the next few months. The themes love of God and invites more of their friends to join been there, done that and has the picture of herself with President George and the content of each service change from group them. To know more about how to start your own W. Bush to prove it. Fleming is well on her way to her next goal of collect- to group. This project lets young people take respon- group, check the church’s Web site by logging on to ing 1.4 million letters — symbolically one for every person serving in the sibility for looking at worship in new ways that en- www.sellersburgumc.com for upcoming information Armed Forces. She has also written a book about her experience A Mil- courage their peers, create community and learn for a summer camp hosted by Hearts in Motion. lion Thanks, published by Doubleday Books. Hoosier United YOUTH & YOUNG ADULTS Methodists 19 www.inareaumc.org together What a SCUMY thing to do By Judy C. Sprengelmeyer ity and West Street United Meth- more homes handicap-accessible the community, odist churches met to brainstorm would certainly be of great bene- S.C.U.M.Y. will de- Shelby County Indiana United ideas, and the formation of fit to the community. pend upon support Methodist Youth are rather proud S.C.U.M.Y. was the result. “May The after-school program, from the communi- of their somewhat grimy acronym, all, through us, find God’s redeem- Crawford explained, will be ty in the form of do- S.C.U.M.Y. (pronounced “scum- ing love at work,” is their byword. called “Homework & Hangout” nated supplies and my”), but it really does fit much The primary purpose is to reach and will provide a place for funds. of the work they plan to do in the out into the community by meeting young and older teens (middle Tools, paint, lum- community. its needs through major and minor and high school age) to do home- ber or other supplies Recently, several dozen work projects, such as working at work, have fun, enjoy snacks and may be dropped off young volunteers and their The Salvation Army and starting an work on character and team- at The United Meth- youth leaders gathered at The after-school program for the next building. A number of Shel- odist Church on Salvation Army at 136 E. Wash- school year. They will be seeking byville teachers have already vol- Washington St in ington St.in Shelbyville, to re- projects to help those who can’t al- unteered to serve as tutors. Shelbyville. pair and paint rusty playground ways help themselves, for example, The program will be at First Businesses are equipment, wash the windows at the elderly, who need assistance United Methodist Church in urged to sponsor the Thrift Store next door and with necessary home repairs and Shelbyville where the facilities certain projects, and plant flowers in the front yard. yard work that they are no longer include half-court basketball and they will be given Youth Director Mike Shelton (on ladder) of Shel- Clarinda Crawford, pastor at able to do. game tables. signage in return. by County United Methodist Youth repairs a bas- Union Chapel United Methodist A side benefit is the opportu- The program will be four days Checks should be ketball goal at The Salvation Army in Shelbyville, Church in St. Paul and youth min- nity for the youth from several a week, Monday through Thurs- made payable to while John Thomas helps by handing him tools. ister at First United Methodist churches to work with each oth- day, and S.C.U.M.Y. will begin its S.C.U.M.Y. and Church in Shelbyville, explained er and interact with their adult pre-registration drive in May. mailed or delivered to any of the Paul, IN 47272 . that the group grew out of an initia- leaders. S.C.U.M.Y. plans to schedule following churches: First United For more information or sug- tive from the South Indiana Con- Mike Shelton, youth director at its work projects once a month, or Methodist Church, 34 W. Wash- gestions for projects may be di- ference, which urged Shelbyville’s West Street United Methodist as needed, and hopes to include ington St. and Trinity United rected to Crawford at 765-525- United Methodist Churches to Church, has a particular project in individuals, businesses or other Methodist Church, 714 Fair Ave. 7413 or 317-431-875, e-mail share their ministries, with an em- mind that could be of great help not-for-profit organizations in its both in Shelbyville, IN 46176; or [email protected]; or to Shel- phasis on the youth component. to a number of people: construct- “clientele.” Union Chapel United Methodist ton at 317-398-6395, e-mail The youth leaders of First, Trin- ing wheelchair ramps. Making In order to succeed in serving Church, 408 N. Webster St., Saint [email protected]. Youth workers get energized, affirmed at Connection 2005 By Kathy L. Gilbert

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UMNS) – Over- “One of the young people in your worked, underpaid and “pizza’ed out,” charge may be God’s architect for more than 200 youth workers gathered at changing the world.” West End United Methodist Church to be reminded that they are “beloved children – Vance Ross of God” “masterpieces of God’s creation” and “called by God” to teach and lead dent or accident; you are here by God’s said when he young people. providence. What is your call text? What was a boy, Speakers and workshop leaders spent is God’s dream for you and through you?” someone four days reminding youth workers of how Sam Kautz, director of youth ministries helped him dis- important their roles are in the lives of for Anoka (Minn.) United Methodist cover Jesus. “It young people and giving them tips and tools Church, said Connection 2005 was “re- is my mission for carrying out their ministry. Connection charging.” “A lot of the focus has been to to help some- 2005 was held March 30-April 3 and spon- sharpen how we are being shaped and the one else dis- sored by the denomination’s General Board challenges we face,” he said. cover Jesus,” of Discipleship. Youth leaders started their days with he said. “If I The Rev. Michael E. Williams, pastor of prayers, followed by a plenary in which they had not been Blakemore United Methodist Church in were challenged to tell their stories and con- helped by a UMNS photo by Kathy L. Gilbert Nashville, started the conference by telling nect with one another. Workshop topics youth worker, I The Rev. Vance Ross lays hands on youth leaders at Connection 2005. participants they were “beloved children of ranged from balancing family and ministry don’t know God.” to understanding how personality impacts what would have happened to me.” said. “They need to hear a message that says Williams asked the youth workers to ministry. The Rev. Reggie Blount, who preached life is hard, and it’s certainly not fair, but think about how easy it is to make some- “The core team and myself wanted to April 2, told participants to “live your life God never promised us an easy life. But one feel unloved. “Do you know how many plan an event that allowed the participants like the masterpiece God created you to be.” through Jesus Christ, God did promise nev- youth, children, adults have no idea how to be self-cared for while at the same time Youth pastors must be willing to guide, er to leave or forsake. beloved they are? The most important thing affirmed in their ministry,” said Susan Hay, shepherd, nurture and “be the catalyst that “Beloved, let’s engage the prophetic you can be for a young person is to be some- director of youth ministry at the Board of helps youth stir up the gifts God has already voices of our youth by offering them a pas- one beloved and an example of someone Discipleship. “We wanted to empower them placed inside.” Blount is an instructor of tor willing to love, willing to guide, will- who is abiding in God’s love.” and send them back a better people.” Christian education and youth ministry at ing to direct, willing to care.” Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary For more information on youth minis- You must be called! Different eyes and senior pastor at Trinity African Meth- tries, log on to www.gbod.org/youth/. The Rev. Vance Ross, executive with the Dayton Edmonds, a Native American odist Episcopal Church. General Board of Discipleship, energized storyteller, led a workshop on “seeing Youth sell themselves short and con- Kathy Gilbert is a United Methodist participants April 1 by challenging them to through different eyes.” Telling stories vince themselves they are inadequate, he News Service writer. remember that to do this work, “You must passed down to him by his grandparents, be called! You can’t do this just because Edmonds said, “What is good for one is you need a job.” not necessarily good for another, and what Vance told participants to remember is truth today may be a non-truth tomor- Middlebury church seeks youth director their “called text,” the biblical scripture that row.” Middlebury First United Methodist strumental or vocal) will be helpful. brought them to youth ministry. Solomon Odoom, pastor at Floyd Grace Church seeks a full-time youth minis- Youth ministry degree or equivalent ex- “One of the young people in your charge (Iowa) United Methodist Church, said the tries director. Primary responsibility is perience required. Contact the Rev. Lin- may be God’s architect for changing the workshops were “reaffirming and encour- in program development for Jr. and Sr. da Craig of Middlebury First United world,” he said. “You are not here by inci- aging.” Odoom, from Ghana, West Africa, High Ministries. Training in music (in- Methodist Church at 574-825-2585. Hoosier United 20 Methodists CHRONICLES together May/June 2005

ACTS OF THE APOSTLES Called to serve this 86 year old has done it all ELKHART, Ind. (The Truth) – He’s covered a lot of ground since The ministry seed was planted at age 14 wandering the fruithills of Bristol as a youth. Born in 1918, the Rev. when Leatherman’s pastor said he should J.A. Leatherman has spent a life- consider the ministry. time serving God and touching lives wherever he was called. A United Methodist pastor, the 86- team, setting a living example of The pastoral path has taken year-old has served congregations being Christ’s servants. Leatherman in many directions. He in five states – Indiana, Maryland, “I always wanted to be a minis- has served congregations ranging in Pennsylvania, Iowa and Michigan ter’s wife,” said Naomi, whose fa- membership from 50 people at – and the District of Columbia. ther was a Methodist pastor and Pleasant Ridge in Middlebury from “I’ve had tremendous opportu- brother is a retired minister. “I 1946 to 1948 to 3,300 people at nities,” Leatherman said modest- watched my mother as a minister’s Grace Church in Des Moines, Iowa, ly of his 61 years in the ministry. daughter. I always thought I should from 1963 to 1973. Preaching the He retired on April 30 – again. His set an example as a PK (preacher’s Gospel is what Leatherman proba- last official pastoral appointment kid),” Naomi continued. “I have bly enjoyed the most. “I looked for- finished in 1985, but his ministry loved it. We have lived in all parts ward to preaching,” he said. never stopped. Since 1990, Leath- of the country, and I’m sorry the Leatherman still remembers the erman has been minister of visita- The Rev. J.A. Leatherman and his wife Naomi at home in Elkhart, Ind. United Methodist Church has days at one of his appointments tion and older adult ministries at stopped doing that (assignments in where he recorded his message on Trinity United Methodist Church ative,” Leatherman said. didn’t know whether I’d choose other conferences) with ministers.” tape and the church secretary in Elkhart. He recently delivered At Bristol High School, Leath- the pastoral ministry,” Leatherman Naomi was never paid by any typed it. Naomi praised her hus- his final messages during Trinity’s erman earned varsity letters in bas- said. Eventually, he was one of church her husband served. Nev- band’s preaching abilities, saying Sunday worship services. Leath- ketball, baseball and track. But it five youths at Bristol United ertheless, she’s given much of her he applied his messages to issues erman and his wife of 61 years, may have been singing that brought Methodist Church over a four-year time and talents through the years, of the day. He challenged his con- Naomi, were honored at a special him out of his shell. Leatherman period who wound up in ministry including her ability to play the gregations to go out Monday and celebration in the church’s sanc- sang baritone so well that he was or missions. piano and organ. live it, she explained. tuary. No matter how near or how invited to give solos everywhere. What cemented Leatherman’s “She definitely has been in a “Underneath, people are still far, he accepted every appoint- By college, Leatherman became call was the woman he met in 1942 very supportive role,” Leatherman people,” Leatherman said. “I think ment with enthusiasm. so excited to enter the ministry that while attending annual conference explained. “She went to most people today are much more open “In each case, it was a call for he couldn’t wait to graduate from at Grace Church in Kokomo. A charge conferences with me, and and not as reserved. I think there me to serve,” Leatherman ex- seminary before accepting his first fellow pastor introduced Leather- she enjoyed it.” Naomi continues is vibrancy in the congregation at plained. assignment. As a University of man to Naomi Esther Antle, who to accompany Leatherman on some Trinity,” he added. “You can more Leatherman grew up helping his Evansville senior, he spent a year had just graduated from Ball State of his home, hospital and nursing understandably give expression to father grow apples, grapes, peach- as student pastor at Saint Paul’s University as a music teacher and center visits on the Trinity staff. your faith. People are hungry. Peo- es, plums and pears on a farm just United Methodist Church in Po- was attending the event as presi- They still share devotions together ple are searching.” southeast of Bristol. The ministry seyville. He actually made the de- dent of the youth conference. every morning after breakfast. Rick Meyer serves as a report- seed was planted at age 14 when cision to enter the ministry during “People appreciated that she er for The Truth and can be con- Leatherman’s pastor said he should his sophomore year at Goshen Col- Married in 1943 was a part of it,” Leatherman said. tacted at [email protected]. consider the ministry. It continued lege, where he recalls having to The two were married in 1943, “I hear that again and again. If she This story was first published in to cultivate over time when others study really hard after finding him- and Naomi has remained in tune goes with me on a visit and the The Truth of Elkhart, Ind. on April gave Leatherman affirmation. self in class with pre-med students. with Leatherman every step of the next time she doesn’t go, people 22, 2005. Used by permission. All “I was shy and not very talk- “I wanted to serve, although I way. They’ve always served as a ask, ‘Where is she?’“ rights reserved. Copyright 2005. Two universities participate in memory of ‘Mr. Indiana History’ Donald F. Carmony’s family, Edith Hagelskamp there, and re- Two sisters, now deceased, also friends and former colleagues at mained for 10 years before tak- Carmony, longtime editor of the Indiana were alumnae. the University of Indianapolis and ing a position with Indiana Uni- A scholarship has been estab- Indiana University recalled the versity’s Extension Division. In Magazine of History at IU, died Feb. 14. lished at University of Indianapo- man fondly dubbed “Mr. Indiana the early 1950s, he joined the IU lis in Carmony’s name. Contribu- History” during a special memo- history faculty in Bloomington, tions to the fund may be directed to rial service held April 30 at the where he remained until his re- Mary, a resident of Meadowood; Carmony often spoke with Institutional Advancement, with a Meadowood Retirement Center in tirement. He was editor of the two sons, Duane Carmony of West pride of his many other U of I con- memo on the check indicating it is Bloomington. Carmony, longtime Indiana Magazine of History Lafayette and Lowell Carmony of nections, too, including a niece, for the Donald F. Carmony Schol- editor of the Indiana Magazine of from 1955 to 1976. Lake Forest, Ill.; four granddaugh- Jane Mackenzie, who is on the arship. Memorial contributions also History at IU, died Feb. 14. Carmony was a trustee at Uni- ters, Diane Carmony, Debra Kadiy- Teacher Education faculty. A are being accepted at the IU Foun- University of Indianapolis versity of Indianapolis for 38 ala, Kathryn Finch, and Anne brother-in-law, Lloyd Hiatt, was a dation, P.O. Box 500, Bloomington, President Jerry Israel offered years, from 1943 to 1981. He re- Tropp; four great-grandsons; and a 1940 graduate who died Feb. 14 IN, 47402. Checks directed there opening remarks and Professor ceived an honorary degree from brother, Gerald Carmony of Shel- also. A sister-in-law, Treva Shoe- should indicate they are for the Emeritus Fred Hill, a close the university in 1966, and a Dis- by County, an U of I alumnus. maker Hiatt, was a 1942 graduate. IMH Second-Century Fund. friend, joined several of Carmo- tinguished Alumnus Award in ny’s IU colleagues in speaking at 1969. While on the IU faculty, he the service. Among the latter chaired the Indiana Sesquicenten- were Eric Sandweiss, current ed- nial Commission in 1967, pub- itor of the Indiana history maga- lished numerous books on Indiana zine and IU’s first Carmony Pro- history, and received two Saga- fessor of History. more of the Wabash awards from Carmony enrolled at what was Indiana governors. then Indiana Central College, A few years after his wife’s now U of I, at the age of 15 in death in 1991, Carmony married 1925 and graduated at 19 in 1929 former Indiana Central classmate with majors in history and math- Mary Hiatt. In 1999, the couple ematics. He was hired to teach received the Alumni Association’s history at his alma mater in the Gene and Joanne Sease Award. fall of 1929, met his future wife Carmony is survived by his wife, Hoosier United CHRONICLES Methodists 21 www.inareaumc.org together

GENESIS Faith abounds as church extends ample ministry opportunities By Thomas V. Bona

GOSHEN, Ind. – Six years into a At a time when people are always new building, Faith United Meth- finding something to do, Faith is making odist Church already needed more room. Growth has been fast; since sure they can do it with the “family.” four declining Elkhart congrega- tions were merged in 1993, aver- age attendance has doubled to tion. Other people serve soup at Mergers are tough, though, about 700. Susanna’s Kitchen, serve as hosts Kurtz said, and a four-church com- But the number the church is of home Bible studies, lead mo- bination was unprecedented in In- most excited about is 86 – the min- torcycle trips or take photos of diana. That most of the people istry opportunities members can church events. from the old churches stayed on, people and everything fell on the And when the church was built, sign up for. At a time when people are al- and many more have joined since, older people ... one of the bless- it was faced toward the new C.R. “There was something always ways finding something to do, says a lot that it’s working here. ings we had was having some 17, even though the road hadn’t going on at that church and I Faith is making sure they can do “The best way to advertise is young people come with little ba- been built yet. Now, more and didn’t hesitate to jump right in,” it with the “family.” word of mouth. It’s like when you bies and just the crying ... has been more traffic sees Faith’s sign ev- said Larry Crump, whose family “There really shouldn’t be a find a good restaurant or a good like music to our ears,” he said. ery day. joined six years ago. “I grew up separation between our Christian movie, you tell people about it,” he “Our churches were basically dy- “The Lord has blessed us,” At- in the Methodist Church and I life and our everyday life,” said said. “Well, people are finding Faith ing out, here was some youth ... kinson said “That’s the reason we understand the importance of the the Rev. Larry Kurtz, senior pas- church and telling people about it.” that we know is going to be the named our church Faith, because extended family. When there’s a tor. “Who we are on Sunday real- Bob Atkinson, the church’s lay future of our church.” we stepped out in faith and we lot of opportunities to plug in, ly should be who we are every day leader, was a member of Good Choosing the name Faith would follow where he led us.” there’s a lot of opportunities to get of the week.” Shepherd church when the merg- proved fitting. Thomas V. Bona serves as a re- to know people and that’s how we Because of their size, the old er happened. At 70, he’s very ex- After the church bought 10 porter for Elhart’s The Truth. This build the extended family.” churches weren’t able to offer the cited about the new blood. acres at C.R. 18 and C.R. 17, story, first published in The Truth Crump literally plugged in on programs to attract young people “I think the big thing was that Kurtz challenged it to buy 10 on April 29, 2005, is reprinted with the church’s technical crew, help- and families. From 1973 to 1993, we, having lived through a situa- more. Now, that land is filling up permission. © 2005 The Truth.All ing with sound and video projec- their membership halved. tion where we didn’t have young with parking and activity fields. rights reserved. Lapel church breaks ground for Trinity Life Center LAPEL. Ind. – Senior Pastor Evan mile running/walking track with desires to make disciples for Jesus Lash recently presided over a 12 meditation “stations” and a Christ, and to help them grow in groundbreaking ceremony at the beautiful gazebo. TLC’s pur- their relationship with God new Trinity Life Center on Mon- pose is to be inviting and open through worship, in study, in ser- day, April 25. The church is locat- to all peoples through diverse vice and in fellowship. ed on the corner of State Roads ministries that actively exempli- For more information, contact 38 and 13 in Madison County. fy God’s grace. Lash at 765-534-4222. The groundbreaking ceremony “We all can be very proud of marks the beginning of a new di- what God has helped us to create Groundbreaking at Trinity Life rection for Trinity with a childcare at the corner of State Roads 13 and Center: (L to R) Evan Lash, Senior ministry and gymnasium at Trini- 38,” said Lash. “This park has Pastor at Trinity UMC, Dawn Cuth- ty Life Center being the first become a reality due to the hard bert, Associate Pastor at Trinity phase. Childcare is expected to be work and efforts of those who UMC, Gene Sylvester, Chairman offered by the end of the year. TLC have given generously of their of the Building Committee at also is the future site of a new time and talents,” to said with Trinity UMC, Michael J. Coyner, Bishop of the Indiana Area of The church building. shovel in hand to those gathered United Methodist Church and An outreach of Trinity for the groundbreaking. Marion District Superintendent Church, Trinity Life Center, is a The mission of Trinity United Dan Motto help to continue the 24 acre site that includes soccer Methodist Church is to be a car- process of furthering God’s king- fields, a softball diamond, a one- ing community of Christians that dom in central Indiana. Noodle-makers aid church with pasta CTS names Spleth TERRE HAUTE, Ind. – The United Meth- odist Women of Maple Avenue United vice president Methodist Church in Terre Haute are serv- ing the church through a ministry of noo- INDIANAPOLIS – President Edward L. Wheeler recent- dles. In an effort to raise money for the Terre ly announced that the Rev. Ann Updegraff Spleth has ac- Haute District and contribute to church cepted the position of Vice President for Seminary Ad- funds, the women are making, packaging vancement at Christian Theological Seminary and joined and selling bags of noodles to the public. the executive staff of the Seminary on May 4. Twice a month they gather for the two- Spleth is a certified Fund Raising Executive, having day process. On the first morning, they earned the Certificate in Fund Raising Management from make the noodles and then let them dry the Center on Philanthropy at Indiana University, where all night. The following day, they meet she also serves as a faculty member at the Fund Raising again to bag the pasta. Each 8 oz. bag sells School. Spleth brings to CTS more than 20 years of expe- for $1.50. On average, the women make rience in not-for-profit leadership and fundraising, cover- about $1,000 a year on the project. ing all phases of institutional advancement, including ma- In the past, the women have also sold Photo courtesy of Don Smock jor gifts, planned giving, annual fund, grant-seeking and homemade mincemeat and peanut brittle. NOODLE MAKERS – From left, Anna Jones, Peggy Hiquet, Dorothy Ann Ash- capital campaigns. Other moneymaking projects include a bi- ton, Carol Brashaber and Helen Short of Terre Haute’s Maple Avenue UMC Ann and her husband Randy have two children, An- annual rummage sale and a turkey dinner bag church-made noodles to support the district and church. Betty Cos and drew, 15, and Claire, 10. Randy is the Senior Minister of in November. Royce Whitaker also are part of this ministry. Geist Christian Church in Indianapolis. Hoosier United 22 Methodists CHRONICLES together May/June 2005

BODY, MIND & SPIRIT APPOINTMENTS Bishop Michael J. Coyner has Goodspeed, Michael from Royal Muncie to Cornith, Muncie, 6/16 A few good things announced the following chang- Center, Kokomo to Greentown, Somers, Patrick from Fort Wayne es within the Indiana Area. All Kokomo, 6/16 Good Shepherd, Fort Wayne to them, supporting them, show- By Todd Outcalt dates effective 2005 unless other- Gosser, Jonathan P. from Fort South Bend Evangel Heights, ing them love? What about wise noted. These appointments Wayne Crescent Ave., Fort Michiana, 6/16 When I was in seminary at your friends? Are there people are based on Cabinet reports re- Wayne to Hobart First, Calumet, Spence, Mary Eileen from Duke University, one of the you need to call? What about ceived by Indiana Area Commu- 6/16 Burlington, Lafayette to Marion most interesting and challeng- that old friend you haven’t seen nication during the month of April Hershberger, Phil from Sweetser/ God’s Grace Ministries, Marion, ing courses I took in a decade? Are 2005. Richland Chapel, Marion to re- 6/16 was a class in Talmu- you appreciative of tirement, 6/15 Thews, Thomas from no appoint- dic studies. The class your job? Your North Indiana Conference Hewson, Gerald from District Su- ment to Elkhart Trinity, was taught by a rab- home? Your quiet perintendent, Huntington to re- Michiana, 6/16 Allen, Charlene from Elkhart St. bi who led us moments? Your tirement, 6/1 Washler, Zachary first appointment Paul’s, Michiana to Walkerton, through the sabbath rest? Your church? Hornick, Joseph from Buck Creek, to Whiting, Calumet, 6/16 Michiana, 6/16 tractate (there are Lafayette to Brookston, Lafay- Whitehead, Larry from Hobart First, Your faith? The list Barber, Douglas from Maple Grove/ dozens of these trac- could go on. ette, 6/16 Calumet to Mishawaka First, Norris Chapel, Fort Wayne to Hubbard, Mary from Portage, Calu- Michiana, 6/16 tates that compose But then ask Hebron, Calumet, 6/16 the giant corpus of yourself: Am I real- met to Lowell, Calumet, 6/16 Woodcox, Glenda from Corinth, Bontrager, James from Milford, Kaiser, Joann from Chesterton, Muncie to Lafayette Congress, the Talmud) and its Outcalt ly enjoying these Warsaw to Geneva High Street, majestic wisdom. As I recall, blessings? The key word here Calumet to New Carlisle, Lafayette, 6/16 Huntington, 6/16 Michiana, 6/16 our final exam consisted of is “enjoyment.” Butler, James from South Bend having to read a selection of the I must confess that this spir- Karges, Edwin from no appointment South Indiana Conference Evangel Heights, Michiana to to Union Chapel, Huntington, 6/ Talmud aloud in Hebrew, parse it of awareness is often lacking Bracken, Larry D. from Lanesville, retirement, 6/15 16 it, translate it and then make in my life. I have a good life, Clark, Edwin from Geneva High New Albany to no appointment, Kuhn, Joyce from New Carlisle, 3/31 commentary along the pattern so much more than I need, and Street, Huntington to retirement, Michiana to leave of absence, of the yeshiva student. Some- so much that has been given to 6/1 Campbell, Norman W. from Michiana, 6/16 Dearborn Hills, Columbus to Mt. how, I managed a grade of “B” me. Each day, I hope to enjoy Clemenz, Lorin from Mishawaka Lake, Philip from Monroeville, Fort Comfort, Indianapolis East, 7/1 – which is astounding to me First, Michiana to retirement, 6/ life to a greater degree. Wayne to Wabash Christ, Hun- Cartwright, Mary Wilder from Ex- now, given that I can scarcely So often in our faith – and 15 tington, 6/16 Clinger, Jeffrey from Whiting, Calu- tension Ministries to Greenwood, remember the Hebrew alphabet especially, perhaps, in our work Leffler, Matthew from New Indianapolis East, 1/1 (use it or lose it!). in the church – we can become met to Munster Ridge Associate, Burlington/Farmland, Muncie to Calumet, 6/16 Cartwright, Michael from Extension Not long ago, however, I enslaved to routine, burden or Muncie Industry/New Ministries: West Penn. AC, to happened to pick up one of my defeat. It is often difficult to Crowder, Greig D. from Greentown Burlington, Muncie, 6/16 First, Kokomo to Royal Center, Extension Ministries: University Talmud tractates, and to my as- feel a spring in the step. When Lewis, Gary W. from Bluffton First, of Indianapolis, Indianapolis tonishment, I actually found we are dealing with human Kokomo, 6/16 Huntington to Logansport Dare, Christopher from Logansport East, 1/1 something I could remember. It problems and needs, so often Cross~Wind, Kokomo, 6/16 First Associate, Kokomo to Cooper, Gary A. from Heidelberg, was a wonderful quote from Lyon, Martha from Lakeville, we come to the conclusion Elwood First, Marion, 6/16 New Albany to Main Street, New Rabbi Eliezer (whoever he was) (wrongly I might add) that the Michiana to Muncie: Albany, 7/1 Day, Mark from Wabash Christ, Gethsemane, Muncie, 6/16 that said: “In the world to come, whole world depends upon us, Huntington to Bourbon First, Cooper, Sandra K. from Primmer’s each of us will be called upon rather than upon God. And yet Maish, David C. from District Su- Chapel, New Albany to New Al- Warsaw, 6/16 perintendent, Muncie to retire- to give an account of all the we come back around to the Dimick, Janice from Brookston, bany: DePauw Memorial, New good things that God gave to us, abundant life that Jesus talked ment, 6/16 Albany, 7/1 Lafayette to Sumption Prairie, Marby, Ron from Elkhart First, but which we refused to enjoy.” about and the lightness of his Michiana, 6/16 Heaton, Thomas S. from Nashville, Wow! Have you ever con- burden upon us. Michiana to Attica, Lafayette, Bloomington to Old North, Dimick, Larry from Lafayette Con- 6/16 sidered life in this vein? Are Let’s take heart. Let’s light- Evansville, 7/1 gress Street, Lafayette to Mendenhall, N. Dale from Griffith, there blessings that God gives en up. Let’s enjoy what God has Lakeville, Michiana, 6/16 Jones, Laura A. from Noblesville Calumet to District Superinten- First, Indianapolis East to Exten- to us that simply go unappreci- given top us and see if we don’t Dubach, Eric from Asbury Chapel, dent, Muncie, 6/16 ated? I think we can identify experience life in new ways. Marion to no appointment, 5/5 sion Ministries, Indianapolis O’Brien, Kerry from Elkhart Trin- East, 1/1 soundly with this observation. Todd Outcalt serves as se- Dunfee, William from Gethsemane, ity, Michiana to Kokomo Main Lake, Lowell from College Corner, What about your family? Muncie to Griffith, Calumet, 6/ nior pastor of Calvary United St. Associate, Kokomo, 6/16 Rushville to no appointment 9/ Are you aware of the people Methodist Church in Browns- 16 Osgood, Lucinda from Elwood Elsten, Gary from Aroma, Marion 15/03 you love … really aware of burg, Ind. First, Marion to Bluffton First, Mingus, Jeffrey Kent first appoint- to Aroma/Frankton, Marion, 6/16 Huntington, 6/16 Faulkenberg, Bruce from Ingalls, ment to Ohio Chapel, Columbus, Patch, James from Union Chapel, 6/15 Marion to no appointment, 5/1 Huntington to retirement, 6/1 Fritchman, Steven L. from Ander- Montgomery, Pamela J. from Oak Raschka, Robert A. from Bourbon Grove, Chesapeake VA, to tran- PUBLISHERS WEEKLY son First, Marion to Winamac, First, Warsaw to Hammond Kokomo, 6/16 sition leave, 12/15/04 Woodmar, Calumet, 6/16 O’Neal, John K. from Coal City/ Gammon, Mark from South Reed, Donald from God’s Good Top Ten Milford, Fort Wayne to no ap- Beech Charge, Terre Haute to Grace, Marion to Elkhart First, Rosedale, Terre Haute, 5/1 pointment, 3/15 Michiana, 6/16 Gast, Charles from Logansport Stewart, Laurence L. from Plainfield Religion Books Rogers, Paul F. from Sunnycrest, Associate, Indianapolis West to Cross~Wind, Kokomo to District Marion to Kokomo Main St., 1. The Purpose-Driven Life. Rick Warren. Zondervan; Superintendent, Huntington, 6/16 Extension Ministries ¶344.1.d Kokomo, 6/16 Vista Care, Indianapolis West, 5/1 2. Your Best Life Now: 7 Steps to Living at Your Full Goings, Donna from Fort Wayne Saunders, Lawrence from Fort Potential. Joel Osteen. Warner Faith; Good Shepherd, Fort Wayne to Wibert, Gerald R. from Castleton Wayne Covenant Associate, Fort Associate, Indianapolis East to 3. The Rising. Tim LaHaye. Tyndale House; Anderson First Associate, Wayne to DeMotte, Calumet, 6/16 Lincoln Hills, New Albany, 7/1 4. Plan B: Further Thoughts on Faith. Anne Lamott. Marion, 6/16 Schwarz, David from Industry, Riverhead; 5. God’s Politics: Why the Right Gets It Wrong and the Left Doesn’t Get It. Jim Wallis. HarperCollins; PROVERBS 6. Wild at Heart. John Eldredge. Thomas Nelson; 7. He-Motions. T.D. Jakes. Putnam; 8. Whose Bible Is It?: A History of the Scripture “My real program of governance is not to do my own through the Ages. Jaroslav Pelikan; 9. Come Thirsty. Max Lucado. W Publishing Group; will, not to pursue my own ideas, but to listen, together 10. It’s Not About Me. Max Lucado. Integrity. with the whole church, to the word and the will of the – Source: PublishersWeekly.com Lord.” Pope Benedict XVI Hoosier United CHRONICLES Methodists 23 www.inareaumc.org together

ACTS OF THE APOSTLES Taking Sunday school to a community emergency shelter By Ed Fenstermacher Members of the church bring each day school class at the shelter. ries or using resources, such as Her advice: “Start by looking at youth a Christmas present, provide Both the shelter and the church Revolve or Refuel Bible maga- the needs of those nearby.” No A dozen or more years ago, the a meal, and play games. One year agreed to try it, and the church has zines, these adults share Christ’s doubt the hundreds of youth who Huntertown (Ind.) United Meth- an excited boy exclaimed that he been doing it ever since. love with each youth firsthand. A have been at the shelter over the odist Church and its youth group hadn’t decorated a Christmas cook- On a rotating basis, ten or so high point of their time together years have been thankful Hunter- threw a Christmas party for the ie in 15 years. When asked how old adults teach a lesson at the shelter is when the youth share their town UMC did just that. residents of a nearby county emer- he was, he replied, “Fifteen.” between 9:30 and 11am on Sun- prayer concerns. Also appreciat- Ed Fenstermacher serves as gency shelter. The shelter tempo- Not long after the church start- day mornings. They meet with ed are the baked treats that the associate director for Church De- rarily houses youth who have run- ed this special outreach, John Boy- those residents that choose to at- church’s United Methodist Wom- velopment and Revitalization in away from home, have been anowski (now pastor of Pleasant tend. The number attending fluc- en provide. the North Indiana Conference of abused or neglected, or have been Lake UMC), who was a member tuates from between a half-dozen Sherry Myers, the lay member The United Methodist Church. He abandoned by their parents. of the church and an employee at and a couple dozen youth, ages now in charge of this ministry, may be contacted by e-mail at Since then the church has never the shelter, got an idea. What if 14-17 years old. encourages other churches to con- [email protected] or by phone at missed a Christmas with them. the church started a weekly Sun- Sharing their personal faith sto- sider starting similar ministries. 800-783-5138. National Hunger Awareness Day set for Tuesday, June 7 BIG ISLAND, VA (SOSA) – Na- The Society of Andrew or they can be down- tional Hunger Awareness Day is St. Andrew (Ad- The Society of St. Andrew has loaded in PDF format from the the grassroots movement to raise vance #801600) Society’s web site. awareness about the solvable is a partner spon- prepared a packet of resource materials Also available from the Soci- problem of hunger in America. sor of Hunger for churches to use as they observe ety of St. Andrew is a new 12-unit Now in its fourth year, this day Awareness Day, Hunger Bible Study and its very serves as a platform for domestic which is ob- Hunger Awareness Day. popular and successful Vacation hunger-relief organizations to served on the first Bible School hunger mission pro- raise awareness about hunger in Tuesday of June each year. This gram. The VBS materials are free; America and the work they do. year it will be held on June 7. A duce and distribute it to thousands insert with responsive reading the Hunger Bible Study is avail- Hunger Awareness Day is also variety of activities are being of feeding agencies nationwide. and information about Hunger able in hard copy for a donation the day when the faith commu- planned by partner sponsors, oth- Society of St. Andrew is a nation- Awareness Day; a sample ser- of $10, on CD for a donation of nity is called to uplift the poor, er groups, and individuals to ob- al faith-based nonprofit organiza- mon titled “NIMBY”; sample $5, or it can be downloaded free the hurting and the hungry serve the day locally and nation- tion salvaging fresh produce that Children’s Time presentation; a from the web site. throughout this nation of incred- ally. Activities are listed at the Na- will go to waste and donating it to short skit that could be done by Churches are encouraged to ible abundance. The Society of tional Hunger Awareness Day food banks, church pantries, soup several youth; sample Call To help build awareness of hunger St. Andrew has prepared a pack- Web site at www.hungerday.org. kitchens and other agencies that Worship, Prayer of Confession, in the U.S. and what we, as et of resource materials for In conjunction with National feed the hungry. and list of Scriptures that direct Christians and the faith commu- churches to use as they observe Hunger Awareness Day, the Soci- To guide and assist churches us to care for the poor; and a nity, can do about it. Contact the Hunger Awareness Day and en- ety of St. Andrew will host doz- in their observance of Hunger bulletin insert presenting a Hun- Society of St. Andrew: call toll gage their congregations in help- ens of gleaning events and engage Awareness Day, the Society of ger Awareness Day Fast. These free 1-800-333-4597; e-mail ing the poor and hungry in their thousands of local volunteers to St. Andrew’s free church re- materials are available at no [email protected]; or log own communities. glean excess but nutritious pro- source packet includes: Bulletin charge from the Society of St. on to www.endhunger.org. Children’s Home hosts auxiliary’s DEATHS annual meeting THELMA ASKREN, wife of vice for the DeLongs was held Sat- retired pastor Charles William urday, April 30, 2005 at North Unit- LEBANON, Ind. – The annual meeting of the Indi- Askren (SIC), died May 1, 2005. A ed Methodist Church, 3808 N Me- ana United Methodist Children’s Home Auxilary was memorial service was held May 4 ridian St, Indianapolis, IN 46208. held at Gress Memorial Chapel on the Home’s Leb- at Bethany UMC in New Middle- Memorial contributions can be anon campus in April. The gathering brought togeth- town, Ind., with burial in the Betha- made to North UMC. er more than 70 auxiliary members and guests from ny UMC Cemetery. Surviving are SYLVAN L. NUSSBAUM, retired 26 United Methodist congregations across Indiana. husband, Charels William (Bill) pastor (NIC), died May 1, 2005. A Auxiliary officers for the upcoming year (pictured Askren, 332 E Walnut, Corydon, IN memorial service was held Thurs., from left to right) include: Kay Chittenden, secre- 47112. Memorials to Hospice or May 5, at First United Methodist tary, of Christ UMC, Indianapolis; Millie Reed, pres- Alzheimer’s Association. Church in Decatur, Ind. Survivors in- ident, of Christ UMC, Indianapolis; and Pat Grubb, RUBY V. BUSHEE, widow of clude: a son, Shelby R. Nussbaum of treasurer, of Covington UMC. Not pictured is Agnes the Rev. William Bushee (NIC), died Glastonbury, Conn.; four daughters, Elrod, membership chairperson, of Remington May 5, 2005. A memorial service Marietta J. Martin of DeSoto, Mo.; UMC. The Home serves as a residential treatment was held the evening of May 7 at Sherrill Teel of Tulsa, Okla.; Rita Ann facility for 165 emotionally disturbed boys and girls the D.O. McComb and Sons Pine James of Eads, Tenn; Dena Walton of and their families. Valley Chapel, 1320 E. DuPont Rd., Washington, Mo; 13 grandchildren; Ft. Wayne, Ind. Graveside services and 17 great grandchildren. Condo- were held the afternoon of May 8 at lences can be sent to Dena Walton, 300 Cane Creek Cemetery in French Cedar St., Washington, MO 63090. HAPPENINGS Lick, Ind. Survivors include: five Memorials can be made to Swiss Vil- Social Principles Event children, John of Ft. Wayne; Sara lage, Berne, IN 46711 and First UMC, will host the Battle of the Christian Bands 2005 on Jane Dubbs of Warsaw; Dan (Cheri) 502 W. Monroe, Decatur, IN 46733. May 23-24 at St. Joseph Conference Center in Friday, Aug. 12 from 6 to 9 p.m. in the church’s park- of Spencerville; Kathy Rucklos of MARY STALIONS, wife of the Tipton, Ind.The North Indiana Conference Board of ing lot. The church is located at 101 W. Colfax Ave., Van Wert, Ohio; Jo Ellen Witt of Rev. John W. Stalions (NIC), died Church and Society has invited the Rev. Jim Win- South Bend, IN 46616. Vincennes; and a large extended Mon., April 25, 2005. Private ser- kler, general secretary of General Board of Church There is no charge to attend but do bring a dona- family of grandchildren and great- vices were held on Wed., April 27. and Society, to provide a training event introducing tion for the food bank. Nine bands/praise teams will grandchildren. Condolences can be Survivors include: her husband, the Social Principles to your congregation. Bishop be selected to compete. To be considered, submit a sent to Jo Ellen Witt, 1306 Busse- John; daughter, Carol Short, Carmel, Coyner will make a presentation on Wesleyan heri- brief letter describing your band/praise team minis- ron St., Vincennes, IN 47591. Me- Ind.; and son, Philip Stalions, Bowl- tage and the importance of the Social Principles. For try along with a demo, publicity information and a morials can be given to Good Shep- ing Green, Ky.; four grandsons; and more information, log on to www.inareaumc.org. $50 deposit (to be refunded) by Friday, July 8 to the herd Children’s Worship, 4700 several great-grandchildren. Condo- church. First Prize $500. Second Place $300. Third Vance Ave., Ft. Wayne, IN 46815 lences may be sent to Rev. John W. Battle of the Christian Bands Place $200. For more information, call the church at ROBERT AND MOZELLE Stalions, 334 S. Cherry St., Apt. 239, Saint Paul Memorial UMC in South Bend, Ind., 574-234-6940. DELONG (SIC). A memorial ser- Westfield, IN 46074-8503. Hoosier United 24 Methodists together May/June 2005