Thursday, March 31, 2011

APRIL NEWSLETTER

Easter’s meaning

In a 2010 Barna Group survey, 67% of Americans surveyed knew that Easter is a religious holiday. But only 42 percent connected its meaning to Jesus’ resurrection. And only two percent of adults said they would describe Easter as the most important holiday of their faith.

Not everyone who connects Easter to religion has the facts straight. Two percent of Americans said Easter is about Jesus’ birth. Another two percent said it’s about Jesus’ “rebirth.” And one percent said it’s a celebration of his second coming. Another three percent described Easter as a celebration of spring or a pagan holiday.


“’Christ did truly rise again from the dead, and took again his body, with all things appertaining to the perfection of man’s nature, wherewith he ascended into heaven …’ (Article II – Of the Resurrection of Christ p.60) …’He is eternal Savior and Mediator, who intercedes for us and by him all men will be judged.’ (Article II – Jesus Christ p.67)” The Book of Discipline of The United Methodist Church 2008: Our Doctrinal Standards.


In the same survey, 31 percent of active churchgoers said they’d definitely invite an unchurched friend to worship with them on Easter weekend.

This Easter, share the truth and joy of the holiday with someone who doesn’t know Jesus. News of the resurrection is too good to keep to ourselves!

WANTED: FLOWERS FOR EASTER

Help make our Church beautiful this Easter by donating flowers. Any type of spring flowers can be brought to the Church on Fri. April 22, 9-5 or Sat. April 23, 9-Noon. Your generosity is always appreciated.











HELP FOR HELPING HANDS
April is FUMC’s month to help with grocery assistance at Helping Hands Food Pantry. This totally volunteer service assists 300-350 families twice a month. This past year they have moved to a larger building by the Christian Church and are renovating the upstairs for temporary shelter for the needy. They also have a duplex that is providing temporary homes for two families in need. Any amount of time you can help is appreciated. On April 11 and April 25 volunteers are needed from 10:15-11:00 to unload the truck and 11:00-3:00 to sack and handout groceries. In addition, Maria Diminet, the foreign exchange student, is accepting pop cans, nonperishable food items and clothing at FUMC as fundraising for Helping Hands.

ANNUAL CHURCH SPRING CLEANING/PANCAKE BREAKFAST
Volunteers are needed for the annual all church spring cleaning day, Saturday, April 9nd at 8:00 a.m. Methodist men will be providing a Pancake Breakfast. Praise God for spring is around the corner!

CARE PACKAGE MISSION SUNDAY, APRIL 10TH
On April 10th during the Cinnamon Roll Sunday hour the Education Cluster will be leading a mission project to make care packages for our troops and college students. Please look at the following list: College: Snacks, stress relievers, gum, index cards, markers, and microwavable snacks. Service People: Packs of cards, phone card, gum, used books/magazines, travel size toiletries, and sunscreen.

Donate any of these items and place them in the box in the Narthex. Items will be collected through April 10th. During the Cinnamon Roll Sunday hour, those in attendance will be asked to help box the items and make cards for the recipients. If you know of anyone currently serving in the military, please drop their name and address off to the church office. We want to send as many care packages as possible.

MSPS SUNDAY
MSPS students will be singing in church on Sunday, April 10th at both the 8:30 and 10:45 services. Show your support for the students and families of MSPS as they join us for this special event.







GOOD FRIDAY DAYCAMP
Calling all preschool-5th grade kids! Join us on Friday, April 22, from 8:15-11:30 a.m. for the Good Friday Morning Camp. It will be a fun time to celebrate God’s love. Everyone is welcome, so bring a friend! Although not required, you can pick up a registration form in the Narthex. Turn in completed registration forms to the church office by Wednesday, April 13th. If you have any questions or are interested in volunteering, contact Jill Findley. A few good helpers are wanted to teach children the TRUE meaning of Easter. If you are interested in helping with crafts, snacks, games, or Bible stories contact Jill Findley. Good Friday Morning Camp is open to children in preschool through 5th grade. It is a great way to spend a morning out of school with friends learning about God.


TIME APART
On April 8-9, there is a District UMW Time Apart event at Camp Wesley Woods. Cost is $45 for lodging and meals.


WOMEN’S CONFERENCE
On April 29-May 1 at Honey Creek Resort, Cindy Farrington, Founder of New Hope Ministries, will be giving the program, “Victorious Healing for a Child of the King”. Registration is $55.



THE PASSION AND RESURRECTION OF CHRIST
On Sunday, April 17 at 7:00 p.m. at the Bussey United Methodist Church come walk through the story of Jesus’ death and resurrection. Everyone is invited and admission is free.

A WEEKEND OF INSPIRATION FOR ALL…
Join Hope Ministries of Des Moines for three amazing events featuring missionary hostage survivor, author, and speaker Gracia Burnham.

For Youth…Wake Up Call
Friday, May 6 at 6:30 p.m.
At this inspirational evening for church youth groups, Gracia will share a message of survival and hope and how we can cope with the trials of life.

For Men…Journey of Hope Breakfast

Saturday, May 7 at 8:00-10:00 a.m.
Held at Door of Faith facility, this is the first annual breakfast for Christian men from area churches who are sincere about exploring becoming a personal mentor to a man in the long-term recovery program.


For Women…2011 Hearts for Hope Women’s Tea Saturday, May 7 at 11:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
This event for women at the West Des Moines Sheraton Hotel benefits programs and services for the single women and mothers with children at the Hope Family Center.


For additional information and/or registration, go to www.hopeiowa.org, email info@hopeiowa.org, or call 515-265-7272.

HIGH SCHOOL SENIORS
If you are currently a high school senior who will be graduating in May and attend FUMC, please put your name on the list in the church office as the Education Cluster is updating files, and we want to make sure that we don't miss anyone as we prepare for Senior Sunday in May.






YOUTH GROUP KICKOFF
The Salt and Light Company kicked off on March 20. Eight students ranging from 7th-12th grades enjoyed a great time of fellowship, games, learning, and food. The group will be meeting once per month. The students will be working on some service projects and missions. Watch for news at church from the members on these special events. Encourage all youth in grades 6 through 12 to attend!






SNACKS WANTED
As the youth group takes off here at FUMC, we are asking for help in providing snacks. If you would be willing to donate cookies, bars, pop, or other snacks to one of our regular meetings, please contact Katie Bishop or Jill Findley.








YOUTH GROUP SCHEDULE
April 9th - Helping serve pancakes at the UMM breakfast, followed by helping clean the church
April 10th - Salt & Light Company 4-6
May 15th - Salt & Light Company 4-6
June 12th - Salt & Light Company 4-6
July 10th - Salt & Light Company 4-6
July 20th - Wesley Woods Concert Event (more details to come)






CONDOLENCES
Condolences to the family of Worth Stevenson who passed away on Thursday, February 24.

Condolences to the family of Gerald Orr on his passing.

Condolences to the family of Katie Rae Smith on her passing.


Condolences to Pat Marconi and family on the passing of her sister.

THANK YOU
Thank you for your prayers, cards and concerns during my resent illness. Cora Rathmel


The family of Worth Stevenson would like to thank our church friends and Pastors for their visits and communion. Your cards, memorials, and prayers were very much appreciated. God Bless. Peg and Girls


Thank you to all who supported MSPS by making donations or purchases during the Spring Fundraiser!




EASTER OFFERINGS
During the Easter season, it is encouraging to see both new and familiar faces at our worship services. Throughout the year, many of you already support the congregation with your time, talent and financial contributions but greater participation is always welcome. We encourage you to look into our electronic giving program. It’s convenient for you and provides much-needed donation consistency for the church. Please contact the church office for details.

OPTIONS FOR FUNDING THE FUTURE…
A story is told about the great composer Rossini. When on tour, he would go from town to town, incorporating the local talent into his concerts. In one town, there was only a singer, and the only note she could sing was B flat. People were sure that at last, Rossini’s great genius had met its match. The time for his concert came at last, and nearly everyone in town was there to see what he could do with this pitiful one-note woman. When the curtain rose, the woman sang her one note, pure and strong. The Rossini’s music floated in, intertwining and swelling, surrounding her note with beauty and perfection, enveloping it in a glorious symphony! This is what God does with us. We need only offer the gifts we have been given, no matter how small. God will do the rest turning it into the very music of the spheres. Lord, help us remember that giving does not empty or drain our resources, but provides a space for You to refill…by Dominquez and Robin - Brought to you in Faith and Love by the Finance Committee –


EASTER SUNDAY IS APRIL 24, 2011



HOLY WEEK OBSERVANCES…

April 21, Maundy Thursday Service, 7:00 p.m.


April 22, Good Friday Service, 7:00 p.m.


April 23-24, Easter Weekend, regular worship (Sat. 5:30, Sunday 8:30, and Sunday 10:45)


 
APRIL LECTIONARY SCRIPTURE
April 2-3
1 Sam. 16:1-13 Ps. 23 Eph. 5:8-14 John 9:1-41

April 9-10
Ezek. 37:1-14 Ps. 130 Rom. 8:6-11 John 11:1-45

April 16-17
Matt. 21:1-11 Ps. 118:1-2,18-19


April 23-24
Acts 10:34-43 Ps. 118:1-2, 14-24 Col. 3:1-4 John 20:1-18 or
Matt. 28:1-10


April 30-May 1
Acts 2:14a, 22-32 Ps. 16
1 Pet. 1:3-9 John 20:19-31


APRIL 2011

John Wesley’s Understanding of Sanctifying Grace and Christian Perfection
Henry H. Knight III


WHAT DOES IT MEAN for us to be created in the image of God? For John Wesley, the “image of God” has three interrelated dimensions. We reflect God’s free agency in the natural image, which gives us understanding, freedom, and affections (or a disposition of the will). We reflect God’s role in governing creation in the political image, our capacity for responsible stewardship. Most importantly, we reflect God’s essential character in the moral image, which is love. God is love. “Accordingly,” says Wesley humanity as originally created was “full of love” as “the sole governing principle of…(all)…tempers, thoughts, words, and actions” (“The New Birth,”I.1).


Due to humanity’s fall into sin, we no longer reflect that fullness of love. We have lost the moral image. Consequently, in our natural image we no longer have the freedom to love as God loves, but instead with have a disposition to put self and things we desire ahead of God and our neighbor. Likewise, in our political image we now misgovern creation, making selfish use of that for which God intended us to care.


The good news is this: God intends to restore us fully to the image in which we were created. It is for that purpose Christ came; it is for that purpose the Holy Spirit is at work. Restoring us to the fullness of love is, says Wesley, the essence of salvation, “a present deliverance from sin, a restoration of the soul to its primitive health, it’s original purity; a recovery of the divine nature" (Farther Appeal to Men of Reason and Religion, Part 1,1.3).


Christian perfection is the goal of salvation. Of course, the word "perfection" can be for us a stumbling block. When Wesley uses the word, he does not mean an absolute perfection from which there can be no improvement. Nor does he mean freedom from errors of judgment or bodily weakness—we remain finite creatures. He also does not mean freedom from temptation (after all, even Jesus underwent temptation). Christian perfection does not mean that everything we do is in keeping with the will of God (what Wesley calls "involuntary transgressions" remain). What he does mean is this:


Entire sanctification, or Christian perfection, is neither more nor less than pure love—love expelling sin and governing both the heart and life of a child of God (Letter to Walter Churchey, Feb. 21,1771).

Only God can enable us to be once again the persons we were created to be. Wesley urges his Methodists to seek earnestly to be filled with God's love and to remain open and receptive to all that God may do in their lives each and every day through sanctifying grace. We can, he says, meet God in those places where God has promised to be: in the words of scripture, in the bread and cup at the Lord's Table, in prayer, and in the neighbor in need. Wesley believes we can all receive greater love than we have yet known, a love that leaves no room for sin in our hearts, and a life that death itself cannot keep us from enjoying through all eternity.






A Time to Celebrate Easter and Grow in Grace

Bishop Coyner

THE MONTH OF APRIL often includes Easter Sunday and part of the Easter Season (which continues from Easter Sunday through the "Great Fifty Days" to Pentecost Sunday). A Wesleyan perspective on Easter includes a focus upon sanctifying grace and Christian perfection. This emphasis reminds us that Easter is not a one-day-a-year experience, but that new life in Christ is a growing, sustaining, expanding pres¬ence. April is a good time to emphasize that Easter is a complete liturgical season, and an Easter faith is a lifetime of growing in God's grace.


One way to teach about growing in grace is to ask long-time, faithful Christians in your congregation to testify in worship or in educational settings. Ask them to share their faith journeys, and their own lives will witness to God's ongoing and con¬tinuing work. Much of our U.S. culture tends toward instant gratification in every-thing, including religious experience. The Wesleyan model of discipleship offers a helpful corrective that faith is also a marathon experience of growing in God's grace over our whole lives.


It is helpful to note that the term "Christian perfection" does not mean being error-free, or perfectionism, but it does mean that God's grace perfects us in love. The whole Easter celebration reminds us that it is the living presence of Jesus Christ that guides us and helps us to grow into Christ's likeness.


The butterfly is a wonderful symbol of both Easter and the transforming, sanc¬tifying grace of God. Perhaps your church will want to use this symbol to teach chil¬dren about God's renewing love. The butterfly also can be a powerful visual for worship and a reminder that the Christian life is meant to be beautiful and not just rigid set of moralisms. Opening our lives to the Spirit of God enables us to be per¬fected in love, in beauty, and in holiness. Such an image helps to overcome the fear that Christian Perfection is about perfectionism.


In the United States, we are blessed that Easter and spring coincide, so it is pos¬sible to celebrate the growth of flowers, the greening of the earth, and the freshness of spring weather as symbols of God's sanctifying grace bringing new life to our lives. In fact, growing a garden is an oft-used image of spiritual formation, as we focus upon opening our lives to God's grace in order to grow in the love of God. Consider this story about Thomas Merton:


Merton told me once to quit trying so hard in prayer. He said: How does an apple ripen? It just sits in the sun. A small green apple cannot ripen in one night by tightening all its muscles, squinting its eyes and tightening its jaw in order to find itself the next morning miraculously large, red, ripe, and juicy beside its small green counterparts. Like the birth of a baby or the opening of a rose, the birth of the true self takes place in God's time. We must wait for God, we must be awake; we must trust in God's hidden action within us.

James Finney, from Merton's Palace of Nowhere


Hymn by Charles Wesley Love Divine, All Loves Excelling


Wednesday, March 30, 2011

APRIL WORSHIP TEAM


APRIL 2-3, 2010
Assisting with Services: 
8:30 - Liturgist:   Brent Hanna  
10:45 - Praise Band


USHERS:     
Saturday -  Brenton and Shirley Trabert and Mike and Dorothy Larson
8:30Jim Butler, Jacob DeGeest, Dave Johnson, Dan Russell, John Scott, and Jim Young.
10:45Kevin and Jennifer Wadle and Deb Harvey.

GREETERS:
Montgomery Street
8:30 – Adam and Amber Norris
10:45 – Betty McRoberts and Em Poffenbarger
Fourth Street
8:30 – Hugh and Marcia Glissman
10:45 – Don and Cindi Synhorst

COMMUNION:                    
8:30Larry and RoseAnn Rowley

HOSPITALITY:                   
8:30Jim and Sharon Young


APRIL 9-10, 2010
Assisting with Services: 
8:30 - Liturgist:  Pat Haney
10:45 - Praise Band

USHERS:     
Saturday -  Brenton and Shirley Trabert and Mike and Dorothy Larson
8:30Jim Butler, Jacob DeGeest, Dave Johnson, Dan Russell, John Scott, and Jim Young.
10:45Kevin and Jennifer Wadle and Deb Harvey.

GREETERS:
Montgomery Street
8:30 – Gordon and Janna Kassel
10:45 – Barb and Joel Johnson
Fourth Street
8:30 – Evelyn Bachman and Helen Stevenson
10:45 – Diane, Emily, and Katie Redden

COMMUNION:                    
8:30John and Pat Haney

HOSPITALITY:                   
8:30F.U.N.


APRIL 16-17, 2010
Assisting with Services: 
8:30 - Liturgist:  Larry Scott  
10:45 - Praise Band

USHERS:     
Saturday -  Brenton and Shirley Trabert and Mike and Dorothy Larson
8:30Jim Butler, Jacob DeGeest, Dave Johnson, Dan Russell, John Scott, and Jim Young.
10:45Kevin and Jennifer Wadle and Deb Harvey.

GREETERS:
Montgomery Street
8:30 – Derald and Emily Swisher
10:45 – Anthony ad Joseph Branson
Fourth Street
8:30 – Gib and Elizabeth Dean
10:45 - Folmer and Norma Petersen

COMMUNION:                    
8:30Jim and Sharon Young

HOSPITALITY:                   
8:30Sara Hopkins and Connie Davis


APRIL 23-24, 2010
Assisting with Services: 
8:30 - Liturgist:  Jim Butler
10:45 - Praise Band

USHERS:     
Saturday -  Brenton and Shirley Trabert and Mike and Dorothy Larson
8:30Jim Butler, Jacob DeGeest, Dave Johnson, Dan Russell, John Scott, and Jim Young.
10:45Kevin and Jennifer Wadle and Deb Harvey.

GREETERS:
Montgomery Street
8:30 – Jerry and Marolyn Jordan
10:45 – Larry Scott and Evelyn Crowell
Fourth Street
8:30 – Robin Butler
10:45 - Phil and Jackie Bauer

COMMUNION:                    
8:30Jack and Bonnie Crook

HOSPITALITY:                   
8:30Janna and Gordon Kassel

Monday, March 28, 2011

MARCH 26-27 ANNOUNCEMENTS

IN OUR THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS…
HOSPITALIZED: Armond Ravera and Lela Todd.
RECOVERING AT HOME: Palmer Krichau, Helen Roberts, Maxine Harrison, Gordon Agan, Ruby Shannon, and Lisa Bell.
ADDITIONAL PRAYERS: Tom Tucker, Josephine Wilson, Paul and Margaret Umble, Ruth Jones, Bob Sherwood, Thurman Floyd, Dorothy Porter, Mary Durham, Trevor Bremer, and our service people and their families.
CONTINUAL PRAYERS: Bishop Julius Trimble, District Superintendent Reverend Bill Poland, District Outreach Minister Paul Smith, 1st church pastors, and church family.

PRAYER CHAIN MINISTRY
Contact Dorothy Danner at 641-842-2557.

E-PRAYER CHAIN
If you would like to sign up for the e-prayer chain to receive an e-mail any time a request is made for a prayer, please contact Heather at fumchurch@iowatelecom.net or 641-842-3712 with your name and e-mail information.

CONDOLENCES
Condolences to the family of Jack Laverne James, MD who passed away on February 5, 2011. Jack was the son of Grace James.

THIS WEEKEND
HEIFER PROJECT collection is this weekend. Heifer’s mission is to work with communities to end hunger and poverty and care for the earth. By giving families a hand-up, not just a hand-out, we empower them to turn lives of hunger and poverty into self reliance and hope. A special collection is taken the fourth weekend of every month.

NEW THIS WEEK!

EXTRA VOLUNTEERS NEEDED
Extra volunteers are needed to call on our members in the local hospital one day a month. If you are interested in volunteering for this, please call Rita Hayes at 641-842-4111.

LECTIONARY:
April 2-31 Sam. 16:1-13 Ps. 23 Eph. 5:8-14 John 9:1-41

ATTENDANCE/GIVING
March 19-20
Worship attendance: 219
Giving: $9773.20

ONGOING NEWS…
ECUMENICAL LENTEN
All services will be held at FUMC Chapel on Wednesdays - March 16 through April 13 with the message being delivered from from12:00 to 12:30 in the chapel and meal following at 12:30 to 1:00 in WFH.

LAY SPEAKER LENTEN
Devotional services will be held on Wednesdays in WFH – March 16 through April 13 with the meal being provided from 5:45 to 6:30 with devotion following from 6:30 to 7:00.

FREE SEMINAR - "A Gutenberg Church in a Google World"
This seminar is presented by Dr. Leonard Sweet on Thurs., March 31, 2011 at 7:00 - 8:30 pm at the Vermeer Global Pavilion. This is a free event and is open to the public.

MSPS FUNDRAISER
The MSPS spring catalog fundraiser kicked off the week of March 7th. All orders are due by April 1st and will be received at the preschool by April 20th. If you are interested in looking at the catalog stop by the preschool or office.

HABITAT FOR HUMANITY CONCERT
Habitat for Humanity is presenting a charity concert called Music of Marion County at 7PM on April 1, 2011 at the Pella Opera House. Local performers will be volunteering their talent to help raise money to build affordable homes in Marion County. Tickets can be reserved with a donation to Habitat at the Opera House or by calling 641-628-8625. Visit the Habitat website for more information. www.HFHMCI.org. Also contact Park Woodle, HFH Board Vice President, 641.891.2335.

SPRING CLEANUP/PANCAKE BREAKFAST
The Methodist Men will be serving a pancake breakfast starting at 8:00 am on April 9th in WFH- that should be a sight to be seen! Following breakfast we will be having fun with our annual Spring Cleaning of the church and grounds. We will need to rake up and bag leaves, wash basement windows, and general church cleaning so dress accordingly and bring equipment.

THIS WEEK…
Sunday March 27, 2011
HEIFER PROJECT
8:30 & 10:45a Worship Services
9:30a Sunday School

Monday March 28, 2011
1:00-3:30p KAMA—Act Cntr
3:00-6:00p Almost Free Shop
6:00-7:30p Free Clinic – Act Cntr
6:00-8:30p Habitat Board Mtg - EFH

Tuesday March 29, 2011
7:00-8:00a Early Birds – Hardees
9:00a Staff Mtg – Conf Rm
9:00a-Noon Almost Free Shop
6:00-8:00p Cub Scouts – WFH
7:00-8:00p Jr. Optimists – EFH

Wednesday March 30, 2011
Noon-1:00p Noon Ecumenical Lenten Service/Lunch – Chapel/WFH
Noon Wings – Conf Rm
1:00-3:30p KAMA—Act Cntr
5:30p Bell Choir Practice – Bell Choir Room
5:45-7:00p Lay Speaker Lenten Devotionals/Supper – WFH
7:15-8:45p Book Study – EFH

Thursday March 31, 2011
8:00a Late Birds – Mr. C’s

Friday April 1, 2011
9:00a-4:00p Almost Free Shop

Saturday April 2, 2011
NEIGHBOR HELPING NEIGHBOR
ONE GREAT HOUR OF SHARING
COMMUNION
7:00a Methodist Men – Mr. C’s
9:00a UMW General Meeting – WFH
5:30p Chapel Service

Sunday April 3, 2011
NEIGHBOR HELPING NEIGHBOR
ONE GREAT HOUR OF SHARING
COMMUNION
8:30 & 10:45a Worship Services
9:30a Sunday School
1:00-5:00p Community Chorus

WELCOME VISITORS…
We welcome you and invite you to participate in all activities of the church. Listed are all of the events taking place in our church this week. We realize that newcomers may not be familiar with all the programs or people of the church so for explanations and more complete descriptions we encourage you to visit our website at, www.kifumc.org or email fumchurch@iowatelecom.net, or call 641-842-3712.  We are family friendly with a well equipped nursery, a full play room, and bathroom for your use. Please feel free to use our family oriented nursery. These areas are sound proof from the sanctuary, but you can turn on the speakers and hear the service if you would like. Large print bulletins are available for the 8:30 service.

ASSISTING WITH SERVICES:
8:30 - Liturgist: Katie Bishop
10:45 - Praise Band

USHERS:
Saturday - Brenton and Shirley Trabert and Mike and Dorothy Larson
8:30 – Ron Adams, Kevin Crawford, Dick Cushman, Marion Friday, Benny Mott, Timothy Shepherd, and Jonathan Wilson.
10:45 – Tom and Lori Bailey and Barb and Joel Johnson

GREETERS:
Montgomery Street
8:30 – Don and Donna Otto
10:45 – Abe and Sally Synhorst
Fourth Street
8:30 – John and Darlene Scott
10:45 – Loretta Kono

COMMUNION:
8:30 – Jack and Bonnie Crook

HOSPITALITY:
8:30 – Doris and George Werts

Monday, March 21, 2011

MARCH 19-20 ANNOUNCEMENTS

IN OUR THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS HOSPITALIZED: Armond Ravera and Lela Todd.
RECOVERING AT HOME: Palmer Krichau, Helen Roberts, Ruby Shannon, Gordon Agan, and Lisa Bell.
ADDITIONAL PRAYERS: Tom Tucker, Josephine Wilson, Paul and Margaret Umble, Ruth Jones, Bob Sherwood, Thurman Floyd, Maxine Harrison, Dorothy Porter, Mary Durham, Trevor Bremer, and our service people and their families.
CONTINUAL PRAYERS: Bishop Julius Trimble, District Superintendent Reverend Bill Poland, District Outreach Minister Paul Smith, 1st church pastors, and church family.
CONDOLENCES: Condolences to the family of Gerald Orr on his passing.
Condolences to the family of Katie Rae Smith on her passing.

PRAYER CHAIN MINISTRY
Contact Dorothy Danner at 641-842-2557.

E-PRAYER CHAIN
If you would like to sign up for the e-prayer chain to receive an e-mail any time a request is made for a prayer, please contact Heather at fumchurch@iowatelecom.net or 641-842-3712 with your name and e-mail information.

THIS WEEKEND
THIS SUNDAY is the Youth Group kick-off from 4-6. Youth in 6th to 12th grade are encouraged to attend. This will be a fun time for youth to get together and learn about God. We will be meeting once per month for a time of fellowship and learning.

NEW THIS WEEK!

FREE LIGHTS
The trustees have a lot of florescent light bulbs stored in the basement, which will not work with our current lighting system. They are FREE for the asking. The bulbs are 4 feet long and have two prongs. Some of the bulbs are large and some small. If not picked up by the middle of April we will be disposing of them. Contact Folmer for pickup of the FREE bulbs.

SPRING CLEANUP/PANCAKE BREAKFAST
The Methodist Men will be serving a pancake breakfast starting at 8:00 am on April 9th in WFH- that should be a sight to be seen! Following breakfast we will be having fun with our annual Spring Cleaning of the church and grounds. We will need to rake up and bag leaves, wash basement windows, and general church cleaning so dress accordingly and bring appropriate equipment.

HABITAT FOR HUMANITY CONCERT
Habitat for Humanity is presenting a charity concert called Music of Marion County at 7PM on April 1, 2011 at the Pella Opera House. Local performers will be volunteering their talent to help raise money to build affordable homes in Marion County. Tickets can be reserved with a donation to Habitat at the Opera House or by calling 641-628-8625. Visit the Habitat website for more information. www.HFHMCI.org. Also contact Park Woodle, HFH Board Vice President, 641.891.2335. Performers include: Elvis (Alan Robuck), Dutchesses, Celebrate Community Church, Central College Jazz Combo, Pella Community High Orchestra (small group), First Reformed Church Junior Choir, Hillary Vande Kieft, Colin McDonnell, and Lynae Toom.

MSPS REGISTRATION OPEN HOUSE
MSPS Registration Open House will be Wednesday, March 23rd from 5 -7pm in the preschool rooms. If you know of children ages 2-5 that would be interested in preschool, please pass along this date. Teachers will be on hand to meet parents and students and enrollment packets will be distributed. If you have questions call the preschool at 842-2193.

LECTIONARY: March 26-27 Exod. 17:1-7 Ps. 95 Rom. 5:1-11 John 4:5-42

ATTENDANCE/GIVING
March 12-13
Worship attendance: 203
Giving: $5946.25

ONGOING NEWS…

MSPS FUNDRAISER
The MSPS spring catalog fundraiser kicked off the week of March 7th. All orders are due by April 1st and will be received at the preschool by April 20th. If you are interested in looking at the catalog stop by the preschool or office.

FREE SEMINAR - "A Gutenberg Church in a Google World"
This seminar is presented by Dr. Leonard Sweet on Thurs., March 31, 2011 at 7:00 - 8:30 pm at the Vermeer Global Pavilion. This is a free event and is open to the public.

ECUMENICAL LENTEN
All services will be held at FUMC Chapel on Wednesdays - March 16 through April 13 with the message being delivered from from12:00 to 12:30 in the chapel and meal following at 12:30 to 1:00 in WFH.

LAY SPEAKER LENTEN
Devotional services will be held on Wednesdays in WFH – March 16 through April 13 with the meal being provided from 5:45 to 6:30 with devotion following from 6:30 to 7:00.

THIS WEEK…
Sunday March20, 2011
8:30 & 10:45a Worship Services
9:30a Sunday School
4:00-6:00p Youth Group Kickoff 6:30-8:30p
Confirmation Class – EFH

Monday March21, 2011
1:00-3:00p KAMA—Act Cntr
3:00-6:00p Almost Free Shop
6:30-7:30p Cluster Meetings
7:30-8:30p Ad Board – WFH
7:30-8:30p Marion County History Society – Act. Cntr

Tuesday March 22, 2011
7:00-8:00a Early Birds – Hardees
9:00a-Noon Almost Free Shop
6:00-8:00p Cub Scouts – WFH
7:00-8:00p Jr. Optimists – EFH

Wednesday March 23, 2011
Noon-1:00p Ecumenical Lenten Service/Lunch – Chapel/WFH
Noon Wings – Conf Rm
1:00-3:30p KAMA—Act Cntr
5:00-7:00p MSPS Registration Open House – Preschool Rooms
5:45-7:00p Lay Speaker Lenten Devotionals/Supper – WFH

Thursday March 24, 2011
8:00a Late Birds – Mr. C’s
1:30-2:30p Mary’s Circle – Park Assisted Living
1:30-2:30p Sarah’s Circle - WFH

Friday March25, 2011
9:00a-4:00p Almost Free Shop

Saturday March26, 2011
HEIFER PROJECT
5:30p Chapel Service

Sunday March27, 2011
HEIFER PROJECT
8:30 & 10:45a Worship Services
9:30a Sunday School

WELCOME VISITORS…

We welcome you and invite you to participate in all activities of the church. Listed are all of the events taking place in our church this week. We realize that newcomers may not be familiar with all the programs or people of the church so for explanations and more complete descriptions we encourage you to visit our website at, www.kifumc.org or email fumchurch@iowatelecom.net, or call 641-842-3712.

We are family friendly with a well equipped nursery, a full play room, and bathroom for your use. Please feel free to use our family oriented nursery. These areas are sound proof from the sanctuary, but you can turn on the speakers and hear the service if you would like. Large print bulletins are available for the 8:30 service.

ASSISTING WITH SERVICES:
8:30 - Liturgist: Pat Haning
10:45 - Praise Band

USHERS:
Saturday - Brenton and Shirley Trabert & Mike and Dorothy Larson
8:30 – Ron Adams, Kevin Crawford, Dick Cushman, Marion Friday, Benny Mott, Timothy Shepherd, and Jonathan Wilson.
10:45 – Tom and Lori Bailey and Barb and Joel Johnson

GREETERS:
Montgomery Street
8:30 – Dick and Diane Cushman
10:45 – Norman and Donna Norton
Fourth Street
8:30 – Marvin and Joyce Brooks
10:45 – Virginia Rayl

COMMUNION:
8:30 – Jim and Sharon Young

HOSPITALITY:
8:30 – Derald and Emily Swisher

Monday, March 14, 2011

MARCH 12-13 ANNOUNCEMENTS

IN OUR THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS…
HOSPITALIZED: Helen Roberts and Palmer Krichau.
RECOVERING AT HOME: Ruby Shannon, Armond Ravera, Gorden Agan, and Lisa Bell.
ADDITIONAL PRAYERS: Josephine Wilson, Paul and Margaret Umble, Ruth Jones, Bob Sherwood, Thurman Floyd, Maxine Harrison, Dorothy Porter, Mary Durham, Trevor Bremer, and our service people and their families.
CONTINUAL PRAYERS: Bishop Julius Trimble, District Superintendent Reverend Bill Poland, District Outreach Minister Paul Smith, 1st church pastors, and church family.

CONDOLENCES: Condolences to Pat Marconi and family on the loss of her sister.

PRAYER CHAIN MINISTRY
Contact Dorothy Danner at 641-842-2557.

THIS WEEKEND
This weekend is food donation weekend.

Sunday is cinnamon roll Sunday.

DAYLIGHT SAVINGS TIME BEGINS SUNDAY…Don’t forget to set your clocks forward.

Lenten Prayer Cards as well as Lenten Devotional Books are available in the church office as well as the ledge on the church office window.

FOUND
A child’s “I Love Dance” necklace was found in the women’s restroom downstairs at the church. Please stop by the office to claim if this is yours.

NEW THIS WEEK!

THANK YOU
The family of Worth Stevenson would like to thank our church friends and Pastors for their visits and communion. Your cards, memorials, and prayers were very much appreciated. God Bless. Peg and Girls

Thank you for your prayers, cards and concerns during my resent illness. Cora Rathmel

MSPS FUNDRAISER
The MSPS spring catalog fundraiser will be kicked off the week of March 7th. All orders are due by April 1st and will be received at the preschool by April 20th. If you are interested in looking at the catalog stop by the preschool or office.

WHERE TO NOW TRAVEL ALERT
Van is not yet full for trip to Des Moines IMAX theatre Tues. Mar. 15, 9: 45 a.m. to view 40 Min. film about life of artist, Van Gogh. (Lunch at Perkins). If interested Ph: 842-5452. Calling Comm. will soon be taking reservations for "Music of Marion Co."... April 1, 7:00 P.M. benefit concert at Pella Opera House. Leaving church at 5:45 for meal at Pizza Ranch. Admission: A donation for benefit of Habitat for Humanity.

HOMEBUILDERS MEETING
Homebuilders meeting on Thursday, March 17 at 11:30 a.m. at Godfather’s.

YOUTH GROUP
On Sunday, March 20 from 4-6 pm the Salt & Light Company will be having a kick-off party. Youth in 6th to 12th grade are encouraged to attend. This will be a fun time for youth to get together and learn about God. We will be meeting once per month for a time of fellowship and learning. If you have questions or are interested in helping contact Brian & Katie Bishop or Jill Findley.

FREE SEMINAR - "A Gutenberg Church in a Google World"
No one gets to pick your birth date. What does it mean, in the words of the Charles Wesley song, “to serve this present age, our calling to fulfill”? How can we be more faithful to the time and place and people to whom we have been divinely assigned. How can we start afresh with Googleys but not start from scratch, disregarding the texts, traditions, inherited memories of the saints? He will give us a crash course in learning the language and customs of a Google culture. This seminar is presented by presented by Dr. Leonard Sweet on Thurs., March 31, 2011 at 7:00 - 8:30 pm at the Vermeer Global Pavilion. This is a free event and open to the public.

ONGOING NEWS…

ECUMENICAL LENTEN
All services will be held at FUMC Chapel on Wednesdays - March 16 through April 13 with the message being delivered from from12:00 to 12:30 in the chapel and meal following at 12:30 to 1:00 in WFH.

LAY SPEAKER LENTEN
Devotional services will be held on Wednesdays in WFH – March 16 through April 13 with the meal being provided from 5:45 to 6:30 with devotion following from 6:30 to 7:00.

LECTIONARY: March 19-20
Gen. 12:1-4a Ps. 121 Rom. 4:1-5, 13-17John 3:1-17

ATTENDANCE/GIVING
March 5-6
Attendance: Not available
Giving: $8893.08

-------------------------------------------------
THIS WEEK…

Sunday March 13, 2011
FOOD DONATION
CINNAMON ROLL SUNDAY
8:30 & 10:45a Worship Services
9:30a Sunday School

Monday March14, 2011
MSPS SPRING BREAK
1:00-3:30p KAMA—Act Cntr
3:00-6:00p Almost Free Shop
6:30-7:30p Free Clinic – Act Cntr

Tuesday March15, 2011
MSPS SPRING BREAK
7:00a Early Birds— Hardee’s
9:00a-Noon Almost Free Shop
6:00-8:00p Cub Scouts – EFH
6:30-7:30p Johnson’s Discovery Group - Library
7:00-8:00p Rathmel’s Discovery Group – Conf Rm
7:00-8:00p Jr. Optimists – EFH

Wednesday March16, 2011
MSPS SPRING BREAK
Noon-1:00p Noon Ecumenical
Lenten Service/Lunch – Chapel/WFH
Noon Wings – Conf Rm
1:00-3:30p KAMA—Act. Center
4:30-5:30p Girl Scouts–Preschool Room
5:45-7:00p Lay Speaker Lenten Devotionals/Supper – WFH
6:30-7:30p Cheryl’s Discovery Group – Preschool Rm
7:00-8:30p Dianne Discovery Group – Balcony
7:10-8:40p Book Study – EFH

Thursday March17, 2011
MSPS SPRING BREAK
11:30a Homebuilders – Godfather’s
7:00p Rebecca Circle - EFH

Friday March18, 2011
MSPS SPRING BREAK
9:00a-4:00p Almost Free Shop

Saturday March19, 2011
8:00-9:00a SHARE Pickup – Act Cntr
5:30p Chapel Service

Sunday March20, 2011
8:30 & 10:45a Worship Services
9:30a Sunday School
4:00-6:00p Youth Group Kickoff
6:30-8:30p Confirmation Class – EFH

WELCOME VISITORS…

We welcome you and invite you to participate in all activities of the church. Listed are all of the events taking place in our church this week. We realize that newcomers may not be familiar with all the programs or people of the church so for explanations and more complete descriptions we encourage you to visit our website at, www.kifumc.org or email fumchurch@iowatelecom.net, or call 641-842-3712.

We are family friendly with a well equipped nursery, a full play room, and bathroom for your use. Please feel free to use our family oriented nursery. These areas are sound proof from the sanctuary, but you can turn on the speakers and hear the service if you would like. Large print bulletins are available for the 8:30 service.


ASSISTING WITH SERVICES:
8:30 - Liturgist: Larry Scott
10:45 - Praise Band

USHERS:
Saturday - Brenton and Shirley Trabert & Mike and Dorothy Larson
8:30 – Ron Adams, Kevin Crawford, Dick Cushman, Marion Friday, Benny Mott, Timothy Shepherd, and Jonathan Wilson.
10:45 – Tom and Lori Bailey ad Barb and Joel Johnson

GREETERS:
Montgomery Street
8:30 – Dwight and Joy Vickroy
10:45 – Virginia Rayl

Fourth Street
8:30 – Dick and Darlene Rose
10:45 -

COMMUNION:
8:30 – Joel and Barb Johnson

HOSPITALITY:
8:30 – F.U.N. Committee

Monday, March 7, 2011

MARCH 5-6 ANNOUNCEMENTS

IN OUR THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS…

CONDOLENCES:  Condolences to the family of Worth Stevenson who passed away on Thursday, February 24.
HOSPITALIZED: Ruby Shannon.
RECOVERING AT HOME: Palmer Krichau, Gordon Agan, and Lisa Bell.
ADDITIONAL PRAYERS: Josephine Wilson, Paul and Margaret Umble, Ruth Jones, Frances Caswell, Bob Sherwood, Thurman Floyd, Maxine Harrison, Dorothy Porter, Mary Durham, Trevor Bremer, and our service people and their families.
CONTINUAL PRAYERS: Bishop Julius Trimble, District Superintendent Reverend Bill Poland, District Outreach Minister Paul Smith, 1st church pastors, and church family.

PRAYER CHAIN MINISTRY
Contact Dorothy Danner at 641-842-2557.

E-PRAYER CHAIN
If you would like to sign up for the e-prayer chain to receive an e-mail any time a request is made for a prayer, please contact Heather at fumchurch@iowatelecom.net or 641-842-3712 with your name and e-mail information.

THIS WEEKEND

This weekend is Neighbor Helping Neighbor collection.

Today is communion. The United Methodist Church has an open communion. All are invited to join in the celebration of God’s love!

NEW THIS WEEK!


LENTEN DEVOTIONAL BOOKS
There are Lenten devotional books from the Society of St. Andrews available in the church office or outside the church office on the window ledge.

ASH WEDNESDAY SERVICE – Wednesday, March 9 at 7:00 p.m.

ECUMENICAL LENTEN SERVICES (FUMC CHAPEL/WFH) (Message 12:00-12:30)
(Meal 12:30-1:00)
• Wednesday, March 16 – Message by John Chadwick, Good Shephard.

• Wednesday, March 23 – Message by Doug Brady, Living Word.
• Wednesday, March 30 – Message by Suzanne Vogel, Celebrate Church.
• Wednesday, April 6 – Message by Steve Ebel, Catholic Church.
• Wednesday, April 13 – Message by Lane Riggle, First United Methodist Church.


LAY SPEAKER LENTEN DEVOTIONALS (WFH)
(Meal 5:45 to 6:30 p.m.) (Devotion 6:30 to 7:00 p.m.)
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
Wednesday, March 30, 2011
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
Wednesday, April 13, 2011

LECTIONARY: March 12-13  Gen. 2:15-17; 3:1-7 Ps. 32 Rom. 5:12-19 Matt. 4:1-11

ATTENDANCE/GIVING
February 26-27
Worship attendance: 174
Giving: $8709.20

ONGOING NEWS…

SUMMER YOUTH LEADERS NEEDED
We are in need of a couple of youth workers for summer. If you know of any young adults that would be great with kids and would like 15+ hours a week working in a faith filled environment, please submit their name to Pastor Lane, to one of the Education Cluster members, or to the church office by March 10th.


THIS WEEK…
Sunday March6, 2011
NEIGHBOR HELPING NEIGHBOR
COMMUNION
8:30 & 10:45a Worship Services
9:30a Sunday School
6:30-8:00p Confirmation Class - EFH

Monday March7, 2011
10:00-11:00a Bonnie’s Discovery Group – Library
1:00-3:00p KAMA—Act Cntr
3:00-6:00p Almost Free Shop
7:00p 4H Club – Act Cntr

Tuesday March8, 2011
7:00-8:00a Early Birds – Hardees
9:00a-Noon Almost Free Shop
3:00-4:00p Rowley’s Discovery Group – Conf Room
6:00-8:00p Cub Scouts – WFH
6:30-7:30p Johnson’s Discovery Group - Library
7:00-8:00p Rathmel’s Discovery Group – Conf Rm

Wednesday March9, 2011
ASH WEDNESDAY
Noon Wings – Conf Rm
1:00-3:30p KAMA—Act Cntr
6:00-7:00p Bauer’s Discovery Group – Library
6:30-7:30p Cheryl’s Discovery Group – Preschool Rm
7:00-8:00p Ash Wednesday Service
7:00-8:00p Dianne/Larry’s Discovery Group –
Balcony Room

Thursday March10, 2011
8:00a Late Birds – Mr. C’s
9:00a Rachel Circle – Sally’s
6:00-7:00p Park/Tim’s Discovery Group – Library
6:30-7:30p Education Cluster Meeting – Conf Rm

Friday March11, 2011
9:00a-4:00p Almost Free Shop

Saturday March12, 2011
FOOD DONATION
9:30-10:30a Christa/Pat’s Discovery Group – Library
5:30p Chapel Service

Sunday March 13, 2011
FOOD DONATION
CINNAMON ROLL SUNDAY
8:30 & 10:45a Worship Services
9:30a Sunday School

ASSISTING WITH SERVICES:
8:30 - Liturgist: Brent Hanna
10:45 - Praise Band

USHERS:
Saturday - Brenton and Shirley Trabert & Mike and Dorothy Larson
8:30 – Ron Adams, Kevin Crawford, Dick Cushman, Marion Friday, Benny Mott, Timothy Shepherd, and Jonathan Wilson.
10:45 – Tom and Lori Bailey ad Barb and Joel Johnson
GREETERS:
Montgomery Street
8:30 – Dave and Peggy Johnson
10:45 –
Fourth Street
8:30 – Kay Jensen
10:45 -
COMMUNION:
8:30 – Larry and Roseann Rowley
HOSPITALITY:
8:30 – Jeff and Darlene Kline