the Messenger

March 17, 2011, 5:17 am
Filed under: Uncategorized

Dear Friends,
As the news of the devastation in Japan continues to flood over us every day, many of us try to imagine how we can help. What can we do? As United Methodists, we can respond through the United Methodist Committee on Relief.
The Reverend Cynthia Fierro Harvey, UMCOR’S top executive urged prayers for those affected by the disaster. And then she called on us saying, “Once again, in the wake of disaster and in the face of widespread need, we rely on the ever-expansive generosity of United Methodists and all people of goodwill to help us respond to those whose lives have suddenly been turned upside down.”
Working with relief agencies already on the ground in Japan, UMCOR will direct 100% of the monies donated to this Pacific emergency. If you would like to make a donation you can do so through our church or by going directly to UMCOR.org and make your contribution electronically. Just indicate that your donation is for the Pacific Emergency.
In order for 100% of your donation to go to this and many other situations in need of emergency relief, the United Methodist Committee on Relief depends on the One Great Hour of Sharing offering, which will be taken on Sunday, April 3rd to underwrite the administrative costs that come with any relief organization. This One Great Hour of Sharing offering lays the foundation for UMCOR to bring healing and hope all around the world.
If you are like me, every week I am offered the opportunity by some organization to join them in bringing hope and healing to a different community in God’s world. I have to pick and choose which causes I can support and which I need to leave for others. I choose to support UMCOR. I hope you will too – both now, as they offer aid to the people in Japan whose lives have been devastated by an earthquake, a tsunami, and a nuclear accident AND on April 3rd through the One Great Hour of Sharing offering.
See you in worship.

Sunday, March 20, 2011

8:30 & 11:15 am Education Opportunities

10 to 10 Songs and Celebration

10:00 am Worship

2:00 pm UMW Unit Meeting

4:00 pm All-Brahms Concert by the FUMC Choirs

Sunday, March 27, 2011

8:30 & 11:15 am Education Opportunities

10 to 10 Songs and Celebration

10:00 am Worship: Bob Granger preaching

11:28 am Linguine Fundraiser Luncheon

Louisiana Summer Mission Trip
Linguine Fundraiser Luncheon hosted by FUMC YOUTH
Sunday, March 27, 11:28 am-12:30 pm

Blake English and the Youth are cooking up something tasty!!

Tickets on sale Sunday, March 13th & 20th.

$7.50 Individual and $25 Family

Proceeds support the Youth on their 2011 Mission Trip to Slidell, LA where they will help restore houses destroyed by Hurricane Katrina, so families can have their homes again! Feed yourself, and feed the fund!!

Annual Quilting Retreat in Yachats!!!

Tuesday, March 29 ~ Thursday March 31

We will enjoy the coast while we make simple quilts for children in our community. We will share our fabrics and split the cost of meals. It is a great way to make new friends and share our talents. If you are interested, please sign-up by contacting Debbie Pitney at 541-345-8764.

Who’s Your Farmer?

What: That’s My Farmer 12th Annual Celebration

When: April 6, 6:30 to 8:30 PM

Where: First United Methodist Church, 13th and Olive

Contact: Patty Hine 541-343-5091

Meet the heroes of the local food movement and kick off the new growing season! Learn about each farm and their products. Live music (sing-a-long), treats, and raffle prizes from the farms make this a delightful evening for the whole family. The suggested donation at the door ($5 per person or $10 per family) is dedicated exclusively to provide fresh produce for low-income families. The highlight of the program will be farmers asking each other thought provoking questions. Their insightful answers reflect the profound nature of the folks that tend the land and provide us with healthy food. This is a unique collaboration of faith communities and farmers!

About That’s My Farmer: That’s My Farmer (TMF), a unique partnership between 11 farmers and 12 faith communities, supports local farmers by encouraging members of the congregations and others in the community to purchase Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) shares. That’s My Farmer also supports CSA farms to provide shares to those who can afford them the least.

FROM SOLE TO SOUL:

ATTENTION ALL F.U.M.C. WOMEN

United Methodist Women would like to invite you all to our upcoming enrichment event on Saturday, April 9th from 10 AM to 2 PM right here in the Fellowship Hall. UMW will be sponsoring a workshop entitled “Finding Peace through Mindful Movement” led by Carolyn Scott Kortge, award winning journalist, gifted public speaker, and author of “The Spirited Walker: Fitness Walking for Clarity, Balance, and Spiritual Connection”.

The workshop will include a morning talk, a light lunch, and an afternoon session in which she shows us how we can move more mindfully. Two years after publishing “The Spirited Walker”, Carolyn was diagnosed with breast cancer. Her experience with a life-threatening disease has given her insights that have made her invaluable as a public speaker at health and wellness events as well as Life Beyond Cancer events sponsored by US Oncology.

In “Healing Walks for Hard Times”, Carolyn draws on personal experience, interviews, and the metaphors of movement to provide a compassionate path of healing that guides readers to get their feet on the ground, taking steps that move them forward on a path of healing and recovery. We are very excited to have Carolyn join us for our biennial enrichment event, and hope you will all save the date! Please RSVP to the church office if you would like to reserve a lunch space ($6.50)

Rohm and Barrett Memorial Scholarships

Students who are active members of this congregation and who will be undergraduates in college or vocational school next year are encouraged to apply for a scholarship from the Memorial Scholarship Fund established from the estates of Arnold and Alice Rohm and Jean Barrett. This Memorial Scholarship is designated to help students who need some extra funds as they work toward completing their degree. Applications are available on the church website, in the office, and from Jessi Rich, youth director. Applications must be submitted to the church by Friday, April 29, 2011.

Southern District BBQ and Roast

for Donna Pritchard

Saturday, May 14 at 4 PM, Roseburg UMC

Save the date and join in the fun as we celebrate the Rev. Donna Pritchard’s eight years of ministry with us. There will be grilled burgers and hot dogs (no charge) with a vegetarian option. Please bring a dessert to share. Please contact FUMC church office, 541-345-8764, before April 25th if you plan to attend.

OTHER ANNOUNCEMENTS

LIFE LINE SCREENING: Screenings will be held at FUMC on April 19, 2011. Call 1-888-653-6441 or go to: www.lifelinescreening.com, for more information and to pre-register.
Sunday, March 20 at 4 pm Concerts at First presents All-Brahms Concert with vocal and instrumental works.
FUMC CHURCH DAY CAMP ages K-5th grades from 8:30 am to 12:30 pm on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, March 22-23-24. $45 Registration Fee. Playing, Acting, Games, Projects, Walks, Discussions, Music, Snack, FIELD TRIP TO ENCHANTED FOREST! Call Dody at 541-345-8764 to reserve a spot for your child!
GUATEMALA FUND DRIVE: Our Guatemala Mission Team will be selling shares after worship at the JAMM table. You will be hearing more about this during worship. Please take part by purchasing shares after worship. If you are interested in Joining this team, please contact Sparky Rice at 541-687-1260. We also ask for your prayers as the team makes preparation to leave on the evening of Friday, May 6th.

New Visions at First

Barbara Rossing: Sunday, April 3, 2011

Registration Form

Name (s): _________________________________________

__________________________________________________

Address: __________________________________________

Phone: _____________ Email: _________________________

Amount Paid: ____________ ($20 advance; $25 day of; $5 student)

Make checks payable to: FUMC New Visions

Mail to: First United Methodist Church

1376 Olive Street

Eugene, OR 97401

Pre-registration deadline by mail: Monday March 28th; after March 28, deliver to the church office. Tickets will not be mailed. Lecture packets will be available at the door as you check in. Admission may be paid at the door for $25 on the day of the lecture. Keep the section below for your records.

- – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – -

New Visions at First

Barbara Rossing: Sunday, April 3, 2011

Lectures at 2 PM & 4 PM (doors open at 1:15 pm)

Lecture 1: 2:00 PM

“Exposing the Rapture” and Q & A

Refreshments: 3:30 PM

Lecture 2: 4:00 PM

“Hope for Our Future,” Q & A and Book Signing

A selection of books will be available for sale at the lecture. We can accept only cash or checks. CD’s will be available for $10 per lecture; $20 for series. Order forms will be in the registration packets.

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The Messenger February 28, 2011

March 1, 2011, 5:36 am
Filed under: Uncategorized

Lord Jesus Christ, you called your disciples
to go forward with you on the way to the cross.
Since you first walked that road countless millions
have followed you. In all that we do as your
disciples, save us from false familiarity with your
journey. May we never presume to step into your
shoes, but make us small enough to fit in our own,
and to walk in love and wonder behind you. Amen.

From Stages on the Way

Dear Friends,

This prayer sets the tone for the Season of Lent, the time when we join with Jesus on his journey to the cross. This year, Lent begins on March 9th, Ash Wednesday. Lent is a season of forty days, not counting Sundays, when Christians all around the world prepare for Easter. Theologian Frederick Buechner writes that “During Lent, Christians are supposed to ask one way or another what it means to be themselves.”

This year, our Lenten worship will center on the theme of letting go… on making ourselves, as the prayer says, “small enough to fit.” What do we need to let go of in our lives as we try to be the people that God created us to be? What do we need to let go of in our lives to stay in love with God? What do we need to let go of to be small enough to fit in our own shoes as we follow Jesus on his journey to the cross?

Each week, beginning on Ash Wednesday, we will have a time of individual prayer and reflection during worship, designed to help us explore the depths of our own hearts as we let go of the things that keep us separated from God. Each week, we will take a look inside ourselves as we ask ourselves what it means to be the best person we can be.

Please join us on our journey to the cross. The Ash Wednesday Service will be in the Chapel at 6:00 pm on Wednesday, March 9th. Regular Sunday morning worship begins at 10 minutes to 10 every week. Holy Week services will begin on Palm Sunday, April 17th and move through the week with Maundy Thursday worship at 6:00 on Thursday, April 21st and Good Friday worship at 7:00 on Friday, April 22nd. And of course, we will celebrate Easter on Sunday, April 24th. See you in worship! Debbie

Sunday, March 6, 2011

10 to 10 Songs and Celebration

10 am Worship with Communion

11:15 am First Sunday Symposium

“Building A World Beyond War: An Overview”
This overview presentation and the ones to follow March 13, 20, & 27 use videos, music, discussion and readings to stimulate thinking and discussion about building a more just and peaceful world.

Sunday, March 20, 2011 at 4 PM

All-Brahms Concert by the FUMC Choirs

Songs, anthems and instrumental music.

GUATEMALA FUND DRIVE

Our Guatemala Mission Team will be selling shares after services at the JAMM table for 2 Sundays. You will be hearing more about this during worship. Each team member is funding their own way plus adding $300 (enough for two stoves) for supplies. We need a total of $19,000 for supplies. Much of this has been raised or pledged already. This is a FUMC Mission. Please take part in it by purchasing shares after worship. If you are interested in Joining this team, please contact Sparky Rice at 541-687-1260. We also ask for your prayers as the team makes preparation to leave on the evening of Friday, May 6th.

INTERFAITH ADVOCACY DAY

Monday, March 14 in Salem: There is a great opportunity to make a difference by joining other faith communities in Oregon for scheduled meetings to jointly lobby our legislatures on issues of Health, Hunger, Housing, Poverty, Energy, Environment and senior services. This is a one day event. Cost is $18, lunch included.

Thursday, March 24 in Salem: Educational Forum and Legislative event sponsored by United Methodist Women. Discussions on Health Care, Human Trafficking and the OR Budget. Lunch included. Contact JoAnn English with your questions at 541-741-0575.

For both events meet at FUMC at 7 am to car pool. Back by 5:30 pm.
Legislatures are very receptive to personal face to face conversation.
It’s fun, informative and productive!

Let us know if you want to join in. Fill out the back of the friendship card in worship or call the Church office at 541-345-8764.

Adult Transformation Classes in March
Only One Class at 11:15 on Sundays

March 6. Symposium: Building a World Beyond War: An Overview
This overview presentation and the ones to follow use videos, music, discussion and readings to stimulate thinking and discussion about building a more just and peaceful world.

March 13: Is War Inevitable?
Beyond War members will facilitate a lively exploration of this question. We’ll examine the causes and effects of war in today’s world.

March 20: We are One: Interconnectedness and Communication: Is the world divided between “Us” and “Them?”
We’ll discuss our common humanity as world citizens. What skills are needed to improve communication and connection?

March 27: Means Become Ends: Strategies for a Peaceful World
How change happens: Effective personal practices and national strategies. Becoming an everyday peace builder: The promise and the gift.

Note: Living beyond War by Winslow Myers is optional reading. March 13: Chapters 1-3; March 20: Chapters 4,5,10; March 27: Chapters 6,7,11 and Introduction. Books are available for $16 at each session.

Daily Subjects
Tuesday – Truthfulness =
My heart holds the truth, my voice speaks the truth, my life shares the truth.

Wednesday – Willingness =
My heart and my hands are willing and ready to try.

Thursday – Inclusion =
The spirit within me is the One Spirit that lives in all.

Playing, Acting, Games, Projects, Walks, Discussions, Music, Snack, FIELD TRIP TO ENCHANTED FOREST!

Call 541-345-8764 or email Dody@eugenefumc.org
to reserve a spot for your child!

Eugene’s Parent Child Preschool proudly presents:

Our 54th Annual BIG PLAY DAY!

Second Hand Story: A tale starring The Big Bad Wolf, Papa Bear, Jack, Rapunzel and more!

Plus a shadow Puppet Play: “The Little Engine That Could”

Showtimes: Saturday March 5th & 12th at FUMC 10 am; 11:30 am; 1 pm; 2:30 pm

Advance Tickets: $4 per person or $12 for a family of four At the door: $5 per person or $15 for a family of four

Game, refreshments, preschool open house and prize drawings following each performance! Call 541-984-5531 for more information.

New Visions at First

Barbara Rossing: Sunday, April 3, 2011

Registration Form

Name(s): __________________________________________

__________________________________________________

Address: __________________________________________

Phone: _____________ Email: _________________________

Amount Paid: ____________ ($20 advance; $25 day of; $5 student)

Make checks payable to: FUMC New Visions

Mail to: First United Methodist Church

1376 Olive Street

Eugene, OR 97401

New Visions at First

Barbara Rossing: Sunday, April 3, 2011

Lectures at 2 PM & 4 PM (doors open at 1:15 pm)

Lecture 1: 2:00 PM

“Exposing the Rapture” and Q & A

Refreshments: 3:30 PM

Lecture 2: 4:00 PM

“Hope for Our Future”, Q & A and Book Signing

OTHER ANNOUNCEMENTS

March 3 & 4, Thursday and Friday, 9 am to 3:30 pm come help make curtains for cabins and lodges at Camp Magruder. Their curtains are worn out. Bring your sewing machines and a snack to share. We will work in the Youth Center. Contact Debbie Pitney or Sheila Sundahl if you can help sew either or both days or if you are interested in making a monetary contribution for fabrics.
If you are interested in helping with the HIV alliance, a new group of volunteers from our church will begin training on the first Sunday in March after the symposium (lunch provided). A wide variety of opportunities are available. Contact Jo Ann English if you are interested.
Memorial service for John Ziros on Sunday, March 13 at 2 PM in the Chapel.

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The Messenger February 15, 2011

February 17, 2011, 5:49 pm
Filed under: Uncategorized

O ingenious God,
I rejoice in your creation,
and pray that your spirit
will touch me so deeply
that I will find a sense of self
which makes me glad to be who I am
and yet restless at being
anything lest than I can become.

Make me simple enough
not to be confused by disappointments,
clear enough
not to mistake busyness for freedom,
honest enough
not to sing all my songs in private,
compassionate enough
to get in trouble,
humble enough
to admit trouble and seek help,
joyful enough to celebrate all of it,
myself, others, and you
through Jesus Christ our Lord,

Amen.

Dear Friends,

I am not a morning person. Try as I might, I am not a morning person. As far as I am concerned there should be only one 7:00 on the clock and that should come in the evening! I am not a morning person.

I do envy morning people though. I have imagined myself waking at 6:00am and starting the day with an hour of meditation. I have imagined myself jumping out of bed and heading off to the pool to swim laps or walk the track. At different times in my life I have even made it a resolution, of sorts, to become a morning person. But I am not a morning person. I am the reason that alarm clocks have a “snooze” setting!

So I enjoy a late morning or early evening walk and people in my life know to give me an hour or so in the morning before talking about anything too important and I have made this quick prayer my morning meditation as I sit down at my desk. I offer it to you in case you aren’t a morning person either!

See you in worship! Debbie

New Visions At First 2011 ~ Sunday, April 3, 2011

Apocalypse, Economy and Ecology:

Is this the end of the world?

Barbara Rossing, author of The Rapture Exposed, has spent her career helping Christians understand the Book of Revelation as announcing the end of empire rather than the end of the world. In the face of accelerating climate change, economic turmoil and social disintegration, she believes the Bible really is life-giving and earth-affirming. She is professor of New Testament at the Lutheran School of Theology at Chicago and a graduate of Yale Divinity School. She has just returned from the international climate talks in Cancun, Mexico and is working on a new book on “Christianity and Ecology

Save the Date . . .

If you are interested in sewing for a mission project, save March 3 & 4, Thursday and Friday, 9 am to 3:30 pm, to help make curtains for cabins and lodges at Camp Magruder. Their curtains are worn out. Bring your sewing machines and a snack to share. We will work in the Youth Center because of the excellent lighting, ample space, and security for our machines. Please contact Debbie Pitney or Sheila Sundahl if you can help sew either or both days or if you are interested in making a monetary contribution for fabrics.

Annual Quilting Retreat in Yachats!!!

Tuesday, March 29 ~ Thursday March 31

GUATEMALA FUND DRIVE

Our Guatemala Mission Team will be selling shares after services at the JAMM table for 5 Sundays starting February 13th. You will be hearing more about this during services. Each team member is funding their own way plus adding $300 (enough for two stoves) for supplies. We need a total of $19,000 for supplies. Much of this has been raised or pledged already. However $7,000 is still needed for the rest of the stoves, water filters, white wash and concrete. This is a FUMC Mission. Please take part in it by purchasing shares after services. We also ask for your prayers as the team makes preparation to leave on the evening of Friday, May 6th.

Chi Rho Series 2011 ~February 18-20

Dr. Gordon Lathrop

The Four Beasts on Sunday:

New Testament Gospels & Christian Worship

Rare Beasts: What are the Gospels? How do they shape Christian worship? Friday, Feb. 18, 7:30 pm at Central Lutheran Church

The Land of Unlikeness: How does the Gospel of Mark relate to the Christian assembly, both anciently and today? Saturday, Feb 19, 9:30—12:30 pm. Lecture & Discussion at Northwest Christian University, Library, Room 203, 1188 Kincaid St.

Unique Adventures: What do the Gospels say about leadership in Christian assemblies for worship today? Saturday, Feb. 19, 7:30 pm at Central Lutheran Church.

http://chi.rho.series.googlepages.com

Takin’ it to the Streets

Southern District Enrichment Event

February 26, 2011 ~ 9:30AM to 3:00PM

Roseburg, First United Methodist Church

God is Active in our Communities. Are We?

Talk about why we need to “Take it to the Streets”
Take the Church out of the buildings & into the world
Be inspired to try new things
Hear from leaders who do church in the community
Share ideas and collect resources

Cost: $15 per person, $5 students (includes lunch)

Contact the church office, 541-345-8764,

for more information and registration materials.

Life Line Screening

Do you have high cholesterol or high blood pressure? Have members of your family suffered from these ailments? Do you have a poor diet? If you answer “yes” to any of these questions, you may want to consider being screened for your risk of stroke through the services of Life Line Screening. Life Line Screening uses ultrasound technology to view the plaque build up in your carotid arteries, the main arteries that carry blood to the brain. Blockages in these arteries are a leading cause of stroke. We are please to host this Life Line Screening event on Tuesday, April 19, 2011 at First United Methodist Church. Register for the Stroke, Vascular Disease and Heart Rhythm Package for $139. All four ultrasound screenings take 60-90 minutes to complete. Your Health is in Your Hands, so call 1-888-653-6441 for more information or to pre-register.

ROCKIN’ SOLO DIDJERIDU ~ Todd Johnson

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 27 at 4:00 pm

Come and Experience an afternoon of exciting rhythmic and melodic solo DIDJERIDU music. Todd Johnson will showcase a wide variety of tones, grooves and melodies that can be created with this unique instrument. He will feature many of the pieces from his CD “Dronedance” and present some brand new material.

The Didjeridu is an ancient musical instrument that originated with the native Aboriginal tribes of the northern Australian Arnhem Land. Historians believe it to be the world’s oldest musical instrument, dating back over 40,000 years. The didjeridu is a hollow tube that is played by buzzing the lips into the end the same way a brass instrument is played. They are traditionally made from trunks of eucalyptus saplings naturally hollowed by termites. The instrument produces a low pitched drone; which the player uses to create various timbres, sounds and rhythms. The player can also add vocals, and short bursts of air to play higher pitches. The continuous drone is created using a technique known as “circular breathing”, where the player inhales through the nose, and blows through the mouth simultaneously. The complex musical culture of each tribe is created from singing, simple percussion instruments, and didjeridu. Tribal mythology is told in ceremonies of music, dance, and mime known as “corroborees”. Many of these sacred myths are stories from the “Dreamtime”, (stories from the beginning) which are Aboriginal creation myths. In recent decades, western culture has discovered the didjeridu; and a worldwide audience continues to develop. Didjeridus are now made and played by people of various cultures, using a wide variety of materials, and featured in many different styles of music. The use of the didjeridu in modern musical and spiritual settings continues to expand. The instrument has a wonderful meditative quality; some even believe it to be the voice of the earth.

Suggested Donation is $10.00.

Please bring canned food for Food for Lane County.

Todd’s CD “Dronedance” will be available for purchase.

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The Messenger, February 1, 2011

January 31, 2011, 8:22 pm
Filed under: Uncategorized

Dear Members and Friends,

As your Covenant Council Chair, I wanted to share with you the opportunity you have to witness and make input into the decision-making that goes on at our church. The Covenant Council is a committee comprised of our church staff and work area leadership. This body meets monthly, usually on the third Tuesday evening at 5:30 over dinner for 1 ½ hours to consider the business, programs and general life of our church.

The agenda for the meeting varies from month to month, but usually includes reports from the Finance chair, Adult Transformations (Christian Education), the Foundation, Trustees, Membership and Growth, Justice and Mission Matters, Staff Parish Relations, United Methodist Women, and other areas or initiatives, as necessary.

The most exciting business of the Covenant Council for me has been the way this body takes in information and/or feedback from the congregation and community and works together to create a coherent response or plan of action, as in the case of our swift organization of a vigil in response to the burning of the Quran in support of our Muslim brothers and sisters, our rallying people to staff an alternate site for the Egan Warming Center, and overseeing the complexities of a major capital campaign such as the one so successfully executed last year, to name a few. The talents we have in our congregation to make good things happen never cease to amaze me.

Many of you attended and participated in the Visioning meeting lead by Donna Pritchard, the Assistant to the Bishop, after church on Sunday, January 9th. We shared things that excite and challenge us here in our ministries at First United Methodist Church and had a rich discussion together. The Covenant Council is coming together in retreat at the end of April to further explore the details of our conversation and discuss and make plans for new directions.

Why don’t you consider attending a Covenant Council meeting yourself? We will meet Tuesday, February 15, March 15 and April 12th in the library at 5:30. We’d love to see you. Patty Hine, Covenant Council Chair

Sunday, February 6, 2011

10 to 10 Music with the Band

10:00 Worship (Communion will be served)

Symposium: Come and learn about Sudan.

Discussion on the History of Sudan and the recent election.

Presenters: Charlotte Sutton, Donna Haines,

Carolyn Abbott, Gaye Gough

Sunday, February 13, 2011

10 to 10 Music with the Band

10:00 Worship

NEW Adult Classes begin at 11:15 AM

Adult Transformation Classes

ALL SUNDAYS 8:30 AM

Feeding our Faith

Led by Donna Haines & Brian Vander Yost . DVD/discussion inspired by people of faith, including Joan
Chittister, Desmond Tutu, Chaim Potok. Ongoing.

Exploring Women, Spirit, and Nature

Led by Molly Myers for women. Meet in the Chapel. Ongoing class.

FEBRUARY 13, 20, 27 at 11:15 AM

Streams of Living Water

Celebrating the Great Traditions of Christian Faith. Led by Gregg Monroe & Dennis Mullins. Reclaiming spiritual practices. Runs 3 weeks.

The Men’s Room

Led by Dick Gann, Bill Powell, Saylor Smith, Bill McCleary, with John Pitney. From Richard Rohr’s book “From Wild Men to Wise Men” we will discuss: “Is there such a thing as male spirituality? What is Men’s Liberation? And How could John the Baptist be a role model for men? “

Mapping My Exit: Planning and Expressing my Final Wishes

Led by Shirley Kingsbury and Sparky Rice. We all know death is part of life. Mapping our exit gives the gift of
preplanning to ourselves, families and friends before the time comes. Experts in finance, health decisions, and memorial planning assist us to complete the workbook provided. Runs 3 weeks.

The Amazing John Wesley:

An Unusual Look at An Uncommon Life, Newton Malony’s book of the same title is hot off the Press. Newt is a UM minister and clinical psychologist recently retired from Fuller Theological Seminary. His book offers thought provoking insights into the founder of Methodism. Runs 3 weeks.

Is “Caring Visitor” On Your Bucket List?

Come February 13: 12:30-3pm

Why not add “Become A Caring Visitor” to your list of essentials? Your life will change, when you make time in your life for someone else. Caring Visitors at FUMC are matched with one elder of our church and make a commitment to visit face-to-face at least once a month. Some take Sunday drives together or visit an art gallery, go shopping or take walks but that one visit is the bottom line. Some visitors even serve communion. What ever visitors do they keep our loved ones connected to the Body of Christ and bring God’s unconditional love.

This is a great time to become a Visitor. Our Annual Gathering begins with lunch on February 13. We have asked Liz Von Wellsheim back for a second time to give us new information and inspiration. She’s a combination of geriatric nurse and stand-up comic and brings her experience of years of living with elders. Please consider joining us. We dearly need 5-6 new visitors this year for elders who don’t have one. Questions? Call John.

Calling all 2nd-5th graders
Who want to have some fun!
M&M’s!
(Meaningful Moments!)
Come join Dody once a month for Meaningful Moments with our M&M’s group!
Feb. 13th 1:30pm-5:00pm
M&M’s go to Pinocchio at the
Wildish Theater in Springfield!
We’ll meet at the Wildish Theater between 6th and 7th on Main St in Springfield at 1:30 pm to watch Rose Children’s Theater perform Pinocchio. We have some actors from our church in the play. Afterwards we will go to Sweetie’s across the street for frozen yogurt. The cost for this trip will be $10 for the play and yogurt. Scholarships are available. Friends are always welcome!
Please RSVP to Dody Hansen at 541-255-5662 or dody@eugenefumc.org to reserve a spot for your child!

Chi Rho Series 2011 ~February 18-20

Dr. Gordon Lathrop

The Four Beasts on Sunday:

New Testament Gospels & Christian Worship

Rare Beasts: What are the Gospels? How do they shape Christian worship? Friday, Feb. 18, 7:30 pm at Central Lutheran Church

Unique Adventures: What do the Gospels say about leadership in Christian assemblies for worship today? Saturday, Feb. 19, 7:30 pm at Central Lutheran Church.

http://chi.rho.series.googlepages.com

Takin’ it to the Streets

Southern District Enrichment Event

February 26, 2011 ~ 9:30AM to 3:00PM

Roseburg, First United Methodist Church

God is Active in our Communities. Are We?

Talk about why we need to “Take it to the Streets”
Take the Church out of the buildings & into the world
Be inspired to try new things
Hear from leaders who do church in the community
Share ideas and collect resources

Cost: $15 per person, $5 students (includes lunch)

Contact the church office, 541-345-8764,

for more information and registration materials.

ROCKIN’ SOLO DIDJERIDU ~ Todd Johnson
Come and Experience an afternoon of exciting rhythmic and melodic solo DIDJERIDU music. Todd Johnson will showcase a wide variety of tones, grooves and melodies that can be created with this unique instrument. He will feature many of the pieces from his CD “Dronedance” and present some brand new material. Many of these pieces are quite danceable, yet this music has a deep earthy spiritual quality to it as well. The listener will experience grooves based on jazz, funk, soul, and rock, as well as a variety of other worldly sounds. Todd’s DIDJERIDU music is unique and very accessible. You will not be disappointed.

Suggested Donation is $10.00, but no one will be turned away. We will also be taking donations of canned food for Food for Lane County. Todd’s CD “Dronedance” will be available for purchase at the concert.

Save the Date . . .

From Loved Paradise (her home) to the Greater Paradise

Dorothy S. Adams

(Mother of Sandy Boynton)

December 11, 1915—January 10, 2011

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Messenger January 18, 2011

January 19, 2011, 6:29 pm
Filed under: Uncategorized

Dear Friends,

Have you ever wondered how we choose the music for worship? I know many of you have because of the many comments we receive about the music that is selected. Believe me, we do no sit in a dark room and randomly open the hymnal and point to a page! Nor do we just pick from a list of staff favorites! Instead, we try our best to find music that connects with the theme and scripture of each service.

Let me explain. When I have decided on a seasonal series or on a sermon series or on the selected lectionary readings of the season, I share this with our talented music staff. Recognizing that different styles and types and moods of music speak to our diverse congregation, we then go to work finding music that connects to the scripture and theme of any given Sunday. Those responsible for leading Ten to Ten choose three or four songs to sing. Linda looks through our library of choral music and selects a choir anthem that will capture the mood of worship. Julia and John and I sit down with the many hymn and song resources we have and choose what we feel will best express the theme of worship. Centering music and postludes are chosen to add depth and meaning.

While we are making our selections of songs the congregation will sing together, we try to keep in mind a balance of styles as well as a balance of singing songs that are familiar to us and new songs that speak deeply to our faith. We draw on a rich heritage of hymnody and celebrate the reality that new texts and new melodies continue to be composed in response to God’s presence and love.

When we find new words that bring new meaning, we do our best to find a familiar melody to bring the song to life. When we find a new melody, we might choose to sing it several weeks in a row to help us make this song our own.

I am well aware that we will never please all of you all the time. We like to grumble and complain about music! Some of you want to sing out of the hymnal exclusively and others wish the hymnal would go away! Some of you love the band while others find the organ more to your liking. My prayer for us as a worshipping congregation is a sense of generosity of spirit for our neighbor in the pew when it comes to music. The hymn you dislike just might be another’s favorite. The instrument that isn’t your favorite might be bringing music to life for the person across the aisle.

I am also well aware that sometimes the music selections we make on Wednesday don’t really work on Sunday. So I ask for your patience and understanding. We are doing our very best to meet the needs of many people while recognizing the gifts and talents of those who make this church their home. Sometimes it all works and sometimes it falls short of perfection. We are after all, human!

I leave you with these words that I learned when I was in high school… “He came singing love. He lived singing love. He died singing love. But he rose in silence. If the song is to continue, we must do the singing.” Debbie

Sunday, January 23 in the Chapel after worship
“Being A Woman and Being Muslim”

Women’s panel possibly including Nargus Oskui, Susan Norris and others of Muslim faith community.

Sunday, January 30 in the Chapel after worship

“What’s It Like Being Muslim in America”?

With Ib Hamide and Friends

Calling all 2nd-5th graders
Who want to have some fun!
M&M’s!
(Meaningful Moments!)
Come join Dody once a month for
Meaningful Moments with our M&M’s group!

Jan. 23rd 3pm to 5pm
M&M’s World Religion Party!
We’ll meet at FUMC at 3pm and pick up will be at 5pm. Come for a party looking at some of the world’s religions and how they have celebrations of kindness and love throughout the world. Bring a snack to share that might be from a different culture. We will play games from around the world and have a great time!

Feb. 13th 1:30pm-5:00pm
M&M’s go to Pinocchio at the
Wildish Theater in Springfield!
We’ll meet at the Wildish Theater between 6th and 7th on Main St in Springfield at 1:30pm to watch Rose Children’s Theater perform Pinocchio. We have some actors from our church in the play and afterwards we will go to Sweetie’s across the Street for Frozen Yogurt. The cost for this trip will be $10 for the play and yogurt. Scholarships are available. Friends are always welcome!

Please RSVP to Dody Hansen at 541-255-5662 or dody@eugenefumc.org to reserve a spot for your child! Hope you can make it!

SPRING BREAK
“Meaningful Moments and Mayhem”
FUMC CHURCH DAY CAMP
Ages K-5th Grade from 8:30am to 12:30 pm
Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, March 22-23-24
$45 Registration Fee
($10 each day plus $15 for Enchanted Forrest on Wednesday from 10:30-5pm; Scholarships available! )
Daily Subjects
Tuesday – Truthfulness =
My heart holds the truth, my voice speaks the truth,
my life shares the truth.
Wednesday – Willingness =
My heart and my hands are willing and ready to try.
Thursday – Inclusion =
The spirit within me is the One Spirit that lives in all.
Playing, Acting, Games, Projects, Walks, Discussions, Music, Snack, FIELD TRIP TO ENCHANTED FORREST!
Call 541-345-8764 or email Dody@eugenefumc.org to reserve a spot for your child!

Adult Transformation beginning February 13, 2011

ALL SUNDAYS 8:30 AM

Feeding our Faith

Led by Donna Haines & Brian Vander Yost . DVD/ discussion inspired by people of faith, including Joan Chittister, Desmond Tutu, Chaim Potok.

Ongoing.

Exploring Women, Spirit, and Nature

Led by Molly Myers for women. Meet in the Chapel.

FEBRUARY 13, 20, 27 at 11:15 AM

Streams of Living Water:

Celebrating the Great Traditions of Christian Faith

Led by Gregg Monroe & Dennis Mullins.

Reclaiming spiritual practices. Runs 3 weeks.

The Men’s Room

Mapping My Exit: Planning and Expressing my Final Wishes

Led by Shirley Kingsbury and Sparky Rice. We all know death is part of life. Mapping our exit gives the gift of

pre-planning to ourselves, families and friends before the time comes. Experts in finance, health decisions, and

memorial planning assist us to complete the workbook provided. Runs 3 weeks.

The Amazing John Wesley: An Unusual Look at An Uncommon Life

Newton Malony’s book of the same title is hot off the Press. Newt is a UM minister and clinical psychologist recently retired from Fuller Theological Seminary. His book offers thought provoking insights into the founder of Methodism. Runs 3 weeks.

Happier, Healthier Couples

“The Vows We Take, The Vows We Make”

Saturday, January 22, 2011 from 9 am to 3 pm

We look forward to lots of interaction and conversation in our couples and lots of reflection time with all of us together. We will definitely spend some time on vows, promises and covenants we make when we start out in a relationship and how those can be re-written, re-promised and re-negotiated in response to what is happening in our relationships now. Spend a little time looking for the vows you made at your wedding or in the beginning of your time together, bring them with you. Call the church office at 541-345-8764 if you have not yet signed up.

The Latino community is asking for our help

February 10 at the First Congregational Church, 1050 E. 23rd St, Eugene, the Latino community will be telling their stories to local politicians and asking all of us for help in lobbying for legislative actions. We have committed to have at least 40 of us there. This will be an easy way to stand with our Latino brothers and sisters as they struggle to better their lives. And, it will be fun! Please show up at 6PM and enjoy music, followed by the meeting. Then … there will be tamales! Please contact Penny Palmer 541-687-1950 or Deb McGee 541-343-5091and let us know we can count you being there!

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The Messenger, January 4, 2011

January 5, 2011, 7:00 am
Filed under: Uncategorized

Dear Friends,

As we begin this new year together, I wanted to bring people up-to-date on where we are with the MISSION 2050 building repairs and improvements. As of today we have completed the following projects:

* The heating system with new boilers and new controls is up and running – sometimes! As with any system where we are putting something new into an existing structure, there have been problems. Some of the new pumps and thermostats have malfunctioned and are being replaced. Even the new computer that runs the whole system failed and was replaced! And there is still a glitch in the system somewhere! Technicians continue to try to work out the problems in the new system and we believe that they will be resolved. We apologize for those times when you have been too hot or too cold. We are trying to be patient!

* There are new double-pane windows throughout the building. These windows combined with the use of natural gas for heating have dramatically reduced our heating costs. This is great news!

* There are new doors in both the north and south lobbies. One set of doors in the north lobby automatically opens for easy accessibility. There are also new doors leading from the fellowship hall into the sanctuary courtyard.

* The photovoltaic solar electricity generating system complete with covered parking area is finished and producing electricity.

* A new accessible bathroom in the south lobby. This restroom is available for anyone to use. It has a locking door for your personal privacy.

* Asbestos in mechanical rooms has been encapsulated for our protection.

Looking ahead to 2011 we will be insulating and re-roofing the sanctuary and adding insulating glazing to the onyx windows in the sanctuary. And the stained glass windows in the back of the sanctuary and the chapel will be re-installed following their completed repair.

Thank you to one and all for your continuing support of these necessary improvements to our church facility. Thank you for your understanding when something isn’t working just right. Thank you for dodging construction vehicles in the parking lot. This has been an amazing project for our congregation and we are progressing in the right direction.

Finally, when you see Lee Sutton, say thank you to him. He continues to be the one person from our congregation who is working tirelessly to insure that the heat is on! Debbie

Starting with the Symposium on January 9th, a diverse group of Muslim people from our community will be our guests every Sunday of the month. We ask that every single person in our congregation prayerfully consider making a commitment to be present. This is important! Let’s fill the room and show the neighbors in our sister faith that we care and we stand with them!

January 9 Symposium: “Islam 101”

Guest: Imam Khalid Alfallatah of the Eugene Mosque

January 16: “The Importance of “Qur’an”

Guests: Ibrahim Hamide of Cafe Soriah, Rick Colby, University of Oregon

Concerts At First

Saturday, January 15, 2011 at 10:00 AM

Introduction to the King of Instruments

Brought to us by members of the Eugene Chapter of the American Guild of Organists. A fun introduction to the organ for all ages!

Sunday, January 16, 2011 at 4:00 PM

Musica Maestrale

Bryce Peltier, recorder & sackbut

Hideki Yamaya, lute

Joanna Blendulf, cello

Aaron Cain, baritone

Julia Brown, harpsichord & organ

Coming January 9th!!!!!

Experiencing the Heart of Christianity

12 Sessions-Sundays 3:00 to 5:00 PM

By Marcus Borg and Tim Scorer

Facilitated by John and Debbie Pitney

This is a 12 session series based on Marcus Borg’s book, “The Heart of Christianity”. It is a group experience where we can dig deeper and discover more together than we can alone.

Many of us were raised in an “early” Christianity grounded in a set of beliefs, a literal approach to the Bible and a call to personal morality. This tradition gets most attention in public discourse, making it hard for many of us to claim our faith. There is another way. It is an “emerging” Christianity grounded in our response to God in the present, an approach to the Bible which is beyond literal and a call to be transformed and bring God’s kingdom of justice and compassion to reality.

Whether or not you have already read the book, if you want to engage with others to discover this emerging faith and what it calls us to in this time, this course is for you. Contact the office to sign up.

Sunday, January 9th, is time to recycle block styrofoam and plastic that can’t be put at the curbside. NO meat trays please. We are unable to take soft foam. Only the CLEAN hard block type.

Attention Riparian Redeemers!!

We’re meeting with the students from the Wesley Center for a big work party in our adopted wetland site in the Bertelson Nature Preserve. We need a lot of planters as we’ll be putting native plants back in to the landscape! Save the date: Saturday, January 15th, 10:00 to noon. More details to follow. Contact Patty Hine with your questions, 541-343-5091.

Happier, Healthier Couples

“The Vows We Take, The Vows We Make”

Saturday, January 22, 2011 from 9 am to 3 pm

If you have not yet signed up for this event, please contact the church office at 541-345-8764.

THANK YOU

I want to thank you for your support for the F.I.S.H. program and its mission to help with the needs of our community. It is very much appreciated. Floyd Carpenter

On behalf of those we serve, we would like to thank you and the caring congregation of First United Methodist Church for the generous donation of 284 pounds of food. We depend on your support and partnership in our mission to eliminate hunger in our community. Your support allows us to collect and distribute 7 million pounds of food a year. We are providing food for more than 82,843 emergency food boxes while finding long term solutions to hunger. Oregon is the second hungriest state in the nation. Thanks to the support of members and congregations like yours, we have been serving the needs of hungry people in our community for 25 years. Your donations make a difference in the lives of our most vulnerable neighbors. Deb McGeorge, Food Resource Developer, Food for Lane County.

I want to thank your amazing congregation for welcoming our families into your church. Seldom have we felt so comfortable & welcomed!! Thank you for making this a wonderful time for our families. First Place Family Center

OFFICE REMINDERS:

2010 Statements will be mailed by January 14th. Please open them and verify the information. If you have any questions, please contact Jan Sears in the office at 541-345-8764.

Thank you to those who use the automatic deduction for your monthly pledge. The transactions will remain the same for 2011 unless you notify the office of any changes.

The building/office will be closed during the day on Monday, January 17th in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Evening activities will resume at 6 pm.

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The Messenger, December 21, 2010

December 21, 2010, 9:16 pm
Filed under: Uncategorized

Thursday, December 24th

Worship Services

4 PM Children & Families (with candlelight)

7 PM & 10 PM Candlelight Services

Epiphany Sunday, January 2, 2011!!

9 AM All-Comers Choir

10 to 10 AM Singing and Worship

11:15 AM Epiphany Party!!!!

Concerts At First

Saturday, January 15, 2011 at 10:00 AM

Introduction to the King of Instruments

Brought to us by members of the Eugene Chapter of the American Guild of Organists. A fun introduction to the organ for all ages!

Sunday, January 16, 2011 at 4:00 PM

Musica Maestrale

Bryce Peltier, recorder & sackbut

Hideki Yamaya, lute

Joanna Blendulf, cello

Aaron Cain, baritone

Julia Brown, harpsichord & organ

(suggested donation $10)

Coming January 9th!!!!!

Experiencing the Heart of Christianity

12 Sessions-Sundays 3:00 to 5:00 PM

By Marcus Borg and Tim Scorer

Facilitated by John and Debbie Pitney

This is a 12 session series based on Marcus Borg’s book, “The Heart of Christianity”. It is a group experience where we can dig deeper and discover more together than we can alone.

Understanding Islam

What is it like to be a Muslim in 2010 America?

Adult Transformations At FUMC

January 9, 16, 23 & 30

Mosque-bombings, threatened Qur’an burnings and growing suspicion of Islam and hatred of our Muslim neighbors cloud the Advent of peace, compassion and hope. In such a time, what could be more important than Christians taking time and creating safe spaces to better understand Islam? What could be more essential than learning the importance of the Qur’an and what it’s like for Muslims living in the United States, in Eugene today, especially after 9-11? Some of us don’t really do classes on Sunday mornings, but this is more than just a class. This discussion is for the future of the world God loves.

Starting with the Symposium on January 9, a diverse group of Muslim people from our community will be our guests every Sunday of the month. We ask that every single person in our congregation prayerfully consider making a commitment to be present. It is this important! Let’s fill the room and show the neighbors in our sister faith that we care and we stand with them!

January 9 Symposium: “Islam 101”

Guest: Imam Khalid Alfallatah of the Eugene Mosque

January 16: “The Importance of Qur’an”

Guests: Ibrahim Hamide of Cafe Soriah, Rick Colby, University of Oregon

January 23: “Being A Woman and Being Muslim”

Guests: Women’s panel possibly including Nargus Oskui, Susan Norris and others of Muslim faith community

January 30: “What It’s Like To Be A U.S. Muslim Since 9-11”

Guests: Ib Hamide and Friends

Attention Riparian Redeemers!!

RECYCLE

Sunday, January 9, is time to recycle block styrofoam and plastic that can’t be put at the curbside. NO meat trays please. We are unable to take soft foam. Only the CLEAN hard block type.

Energy tip….

If you are going away for the holidays or traveling to Glendale, AZ in January, make sure you shut off your electric hot water heater at the breaker. It will reduce your CO2 emissions and save you money. Just remember to turn it on as soon as you return home.

The symposium on Sunday, Dec. 5 was well attended as guest speaker, Bob Welch shared insights and responses to his column, “How Do You Want To Die?” Bob Granger also shared and left us with these questions to consider: What changes can I make in my life in order to become more of the person that deep down I long to see my self becoming? How are the influences of family, friends or culture making it easer for me to be that person, or more difficult? What fears might be getting in the way? What other things might be making it more difficult?

A heartfelt “thank you” to our congregation for its MANY contributions both large and small that made our 2010 Interfaith Shelter practically run itself. You made reminder calls, were evening hosts, drove vans, prepared delicious home-cooked meals, did dishes, played with kids, prepared craft activities and games, talked with families, made doctor visits, donated money, pitched in when others got sick, helped with composting, and willingly dispensed a welcome, caring, and truly giving spirit to our guest families, many of whom are going through hard times this Christmas season. I know they felt your spirit. What a warm and fuzzy feeling that gives us, and I hope all of you. Blessings to you all with our grateful thanks, Lisa Young and Karen Ziros-Smith.

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The Messenger, December 8, 2010

December 8, 2010, 7:27 pm
Filed under: Uncategorized

“We dance toward the star and the stable,

ever closer to the stillness and the light

that reshape and transform us”.

Marilyn Oden Brown

Dear Friends,

As you read this, we are once again welcoming homeless families from the First Place Family Shelter into our church building, offering them a place of warmth during a difficult time in their lives. Thank you for volunteering to make meals and play with children. Thank you for driving the van and spending the night. Thank you for leading activities and supporting the giving tree. Thank you for the many ways you are making this place a home for families in need. You are the best. You are living the Christmas story with your love.

It has become our tradition to share a holiday meal with these families on the first Sunday of their stay. This Sunday, December 12th at 6:00 pm we will gather for a wonderful dinner, sharing around tables with our guests. It is a potluck and I know you know about potlucks. If everyone brings a main dish to share and then a salad or dessert to go along with it, we will have plenty of food for everyone. What a wonderful way to bring the Christmas spirit to life. Please come and join in the fun.

On a totally different note, I want to invite you to be a part of the Blue Christmas Service on Sunday,
December 19th at 5:00 pm. This contemplative service is designed especially for those who might be experiencing pain or loss or loneliness this holiday season. Maybe you are longing for a quiet moment to reflect on God’s gracious gift. I want to invite you to think about someone in your life whose life has been touched with sadness and encourage them to join you in this time of quiet reflection. Offer them a ride or arrange to meet them here. Grab a cup of coffee together before the service or a bite to eat after. In the midst of the overwhelming busyness of the holidays, I guarantee you that this service will offer you a moment or two to breath and center your heart for the birth of Jesus.

Again, you are the best. You are living the Christmas story with your love. Debbie

Sunday, December 12, 2010

10 to 10 Songs and Celebration

10 AM Worship—Mary’s Sunday

Christmas Choral Sunday

11:15 AM Cookie Walk

6 PM All-Church Potluck Christmas Dinner

Sunday, December 19, 2010

10 to 10 Songs and Celebration

10 AM Worship—Joseph’s Sunday

11:30-2:30 PM Christmas Caroling by Horse-drawn Wagon

3 PM Concerts at First

5 PM A Blue Christmas Service

Please see the Nov. 23rd Messenger or website for more details.

Sunday morning 8:30 a.m. classes, will not meet on Dec. 12, 19, & 26.

Interfaith Shelter Dates: Dec. 6 to Dec. 20

Thursday, December 24th, Worship Services

4 PM Children & Families (with candle light)

7 PM & 10 PM Candlelight Services

M&M’s Christmas Party!

December 20th, 5 PM—8:30 PM

We’ll meet at FUMC to have a potluck, gift exchange game, make a gift for people we love and watch a movie. Parents can have a little time to do any emergency wrapping or shopping! Please bring a potluck item to share for dinner, a small gift to exchange with another child of the same gender. Something of theirs they’d like to give away or from the $1 store would be great! We will have extra gifts for those who may forget. Friends are always welcome!!

Everyone is invited!

December UMW Unit Meeting

Tuesday, December 14, 4 to 6 PM in FUMC Chapel

4 PM Christmas Tea and Song! Tea and Quiche ($5) followed by short business meeting & installation of 2011 Officers.

5:15 PM Songs of the Season by Oregon Children’s Boy Choir and Girl Choir.

RSVP for Tea & Quiche by Dec.10 to circle chair or the office

Cancer Support Group meets Tuesday, Dec. 21st at the Original Pancake House on Franklin Blvd. for a no-host brunch at 10:30 am. You are welcome if you or a loved one is living with or has been touched by cancer. Contact Ronnie Egger or JoAnn Zinniker if you have questions.

Stewardship Thanks

Our 2011 Stewardship Information Campaign was a success because over 50 people helped make it so. Special thanks go to our Finance volunteers and staff for getting budget numbers to us, to those who gave us Stewardship Moments during our worship services, to our Stewardship Committee, to the CGroup who helped set up and clean up Sunday following the brunch, and to the many, many bakers, food arrangers, and servers who also helped with Sunday’s brunch. My heartfelt thanks go to all who worked hard to make Stewardship a special, meaningful responsibility. For those who have not pledged yet, it’s always the right time to turn in your 2011 pledge card to the office. Sheila Sundahl, Stewardship Chair

Concerts at First-Sunday, December 19 at 3:00 PM

Marc-Antoine Charpentier’s Christmas Mass will be performed by the Unitarian Universalist Chamber Choir and orchestra of original instruments, directed by Toms Sears. This delightful Messe de Minuit pour Noël dates from around 1690 and is based on popular carols of the time. A cappella madrigals and instrumental Noëls also will be featured in the program. Tickets $5.00. Please bring canned goods for Food for Lane Co.

Habitat desperately needs donations for the Christmas gift wrap fundraiser starting December 16th through the 24th. We need boxes of all sizes, bows, ribbon and paper. We wrap gifts in the Gateway Mall for donations. You can drop the donations at our office (1210 Oakpatch Rd. Eugene) 9 to 4 daily or Saturday at the ReStore. If there are questions, please call Vikki at 741-1707.

The flower calendar for 2011 is up in the back of the Sanctuary. Please sign up if you are interested in providing flowers for Sunday morning. Remember to call the office if you have any special instructions to go in the worship folder.

Sock it to Missions

The Sock it to Missions Special Offering taken on Sunday, December 12th AND Sunday, December 19th will have three recipients. Unless you specify otherwise, your offering will be divided equally as follows:

The Cambodia Mission

No More Deaths

Guatemala Mission Team in May of 2011

Coming January 9th!!!!!

Experiencing the Heart of Christianity

12 Sessions-Sundays 3:00 to 5:00 PM

By Marcus Borg and Tim Scorer

Facilitated by John and Debbie Pitney

This is a 12 session series based on Marcus Borg’s book, “The Heart of Christianity”. It is a group experience where we can dig deeper and discover more together than we can alone.

Whether or not you have already read the book, if you want to engage with others to discover this emerging faith and what it calls us to in this time, this course is for you. Sign up now on the back of the friendship card or by contacting the office. We will order a book for you .

Understanding Islam

What is it like to be a Muslim in 2010 America?

Adult Transformations At FUMC

January 9, 16, 23 & 30

January 9 Symposium

“Islam 101” Guest: Imam Khalid Alfallatah of the Eugene Mosque

January 16

“The Importance of Qur’an” Guests: Ibrahim Hamide of Cafe Soriah,

Rick Colby, University of Oregon

January 23

“Being A Woman and Being Muslim” Guests: Women’s panel possibly including Nargus Oskui, Susan Norris and others of Muslim faith community

January 30

“What It’s Like To Be A U.S. Muslim Since 9-11” Guests: Ib Hamide and Friends

We give God thanks for the lives of:

Robert “Clark” McKay

September 3, 1920 ~ November 23, 2010

Loraine Parker

November 24, 2010

Celebration of Life Service: Sunday, Dec. 12 at 2:00 PM

Elsie Hall

November 29, 2010

A service will be held in the spring

“Night of the Father’s Love”

A Christmas Musical, presented by Ebbert Memorial Choir

Sunday, December 19, 3 PM at Ebbert (Free Admission)

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The Messenger, November 24, 2010

November 25, 2010, 7:55 am
Filed under: Uncategorized

“In the silence of a midwinter dusk there is far off in the deeps of it somewhere a sound so faint that for all you can tell it may be only the sound of the silence itself. You hold your breath to listen… The extraordinary thing that is about to happen is matched only by the extraordinary moment just before it happens. Advent is the name of that moment.”

Frederick Buechner, Whistling in the Dark

Dear Friends,

While the headlines speak of Black Friday and the promise of increasing holiday sales… while the streets are decorated with Christmas lights and Santa Claus begins his annual appearances… while our calendars begin to be cluttered with holiday happenings… we in the church begin the season of Advent.

Every year, I offer an explanation of the season of Advent. The word “Advent” comes from the Latin word “adventus” which means “the coming.” This is the season when we wait for the coming of Christ. If we are true to our Christian heritage, on the first Sunday of Advent we would greet one another with “Happy New Year” since the Christian year begins with Advent.

As seasons go, Advent is relatively new. In the early church there were only three important dates in the life of Jesus – Easter, Pentecost, and Epiphany. On Easter, believers celebrated the resurrection of Christ. On Pentecost, believers celebrated the establishment of the church. And on Epiphany, believers celebrated both the birth and the baptism of Jesus. While the celebration of Christmas began in the 4th century, the celebration of the season of Advent did not begin until the 6th century.

Like the forty days of Lent as a time of preparing for Easter, the season of Advent came into being as the forty day season of preparation for Epiphany. In the church, we mark the four Sundays of Advent with lighting candles on the Advent wreath and singing songs of preparation for Jesus’ birth. The scriptures challenge us to wait expectantly for the moment when the world will be made new again with the coming of Christ.

As seasons go, I have to tell you, Advent is my favorite. I love the music, the candles, the stars, the story. But more than anything, I love the feeling that something extraordinary is about to happen. Like watching the Northern Lights dance in the midnight sky, Advent is amazing.

Last year, we were invited to a holiday gathering with new friends. After a cup of hot wassail and sharing of simple conversation, we were invited to put on our coats and head out into the winter’s night for Christmas caroling. We followed our hosts out into the fog. We could see our breath as we sang and walked several hundred yards to an old granary. The door was opened and we stepped inside to a room hung with evergreen boughs and twinkling lights and warmed by a wood stove. A simple yet beautiful table was set ready for us to share food and fellowship. There was a sense of awe and mystery and profound thanksgiving as we anticipated the birth of Jesus. The extraordinary was happening.

The extraordinary is happening. I want to invite you to find some ways to celebrate the season of Advent this year here at First United Methodist Church. In addition to worship, plan to be a part of the Advent Festival on Sunday, November 28th. Volunteer to help as we welcome the families of First Place Family Shelter and don’t miss the Christmas Dinner we share with those families on Sunday, December 12th. Take a ride in a horse-drawn wagon as we sing carols throughout our neighborhood on Sunday, December 19th. And for those of us who find this season to be a struggle due to a sadness that you have experienced, come join us for a Blue Christmas Service.

The time of waiting as begun. Hold your breath and listen. The extraordinary is happening. See you in worship. Debbie

Sunday, November 28th

First Sunday of Advent

10 to 10 Songs and Celebration

10:00 a.m. Worship

“All Church Advent Festival”

11:15 a.m. in Fellowship Hall

Begin Advent with your church family by participating in activities preparing us for the coming of Christmas.

Children and Family Ministries

by Dody Hansen

FUMC Children’s ADVENT News

We have been learning about Courage, Divine Energy, Expressing Gratitude and more with our new curriculum in First Fun Sunday School! This curriculum is the first one for children from the Center for Progressive Christianity. It is filled with Bible stories, and inspirational stories from all walks of life, affirmations, games, projects and fun activities.

In Advent, the time of light, love and joy, our classes will be preparing for the coming of humble baby Jesus by learning music, bells and readings to share on December 24th at the 4 p.m. service and on December 26th at the 10 a.m. service. If you are not going to be here for these events, your child is still welcome to come and learn about Advent through music! If you have something special, i.e. music, poem, dance, your child would like to share at either of these services, please call Dody Hansen at 541-345-8764.

Sunday, December 5th at 10:00 a.m.

Special offering for Interfaith Shelter Families. Watch for the envelope with the “Green Christmas Tree”.

Tuesday, December 7th at 6:30 p.m.

Dody will be doing crafts and games with the shelter kids. If you would like to come too, you may! If you would like to sign up to lead an activity with the kids at the shelter, please contact the church office 541-345-8764.

Sunday, December 12th & 19th at 10:00 a.m.

SOCK IT TO MISSIONS

During the service this day all families will receive a Christmas stocking. This is to collect money for missions around the world. It is fun to hang this stocking up and talk about how this is your gift to baby Jesus.

(more details on the back of the Dec. calendar)

Monday, December 20th, 5:00 – 8:30 p.m.

M&M’s (Meaningful Moments for 2nd-5th grade)

We will be having a gift exchange and making gifts for our families and loved ones! We will also play games and watch a movie!

Friday, December 24th at 4 p.m.

Family Christmas Eve Service

Music and readings by and for children! There will be warm candle light and fun costumes for all. If your child has something special to contribute to this service, please let Dody know. Bring a friend!

Youth Ministries

by Jessi Rich

E.F.U.M.C.Y.

(Eugene First United Methodist Church Youth)

Advent means coming, a time for hope of good things beginning. For the last couple of weeks we have talked about ways to “Make it Better” and fight apathy; now with the holiday season upon us, we have an opportunity to put our words into action. During this Advent season the youth group will be making it better by delivering poinsettias to church members, decorating Station 7, and leading activities for children at the Interfaith Shelter.

I would also like to encourage all the youth at FUMC to make better connections at home, by doing some type of advent devotional with your family, or even on your own. And by attending one of the Christmas Eve services with your family on December 24th.

Please remember to sign up on the youth bulletin board or e-mail Jessi at youth_first@yahoo.com for these activities so we have enough transportation and adult sponsors. Also, if you have any questions about any of these activities, please call or e-mail.

Decorating Station 7

Saturday, December 4th, 12:00-2:00 p.m.

Station 7 is the homeless shelter for youth in Eugene. The youth group has been decorating Station 7 for over 10 years. We will meet at Station 7 and decorate the inside for the holiday season. Please bring at least 2 ornaments or Christmas decorations to Station 7. Pizza will be provided.

Poinsettia Delivery

Sunday, December 5th, 2:00-5:00 p.m.

We will deliver poinsettias to people in our faith community who need some extra love this holiday season.

Interfaith Shelter

Friday, December 17th, 6:00-8:00 p.m.

We will lead games and do activities with the children while their parents are shopping.

All – Church Caroling – Horse Drawn Wagon

Sunday, December 19th, 11:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.

Advent Schedule

Sunday, November 28th—First Sunday of Advent-Prophet’s Sunday

10 to 10 Songs and Celebration; 10:00 a.m. Worship

Scripture Reading: Isaiah 11: 1-10

Anthem “Keep Your Lamps”, Thomas

11:15 a.m. All Church Advent Festival

Begin Advent with your church family. This is a GREAT family event!

Singing, Cooking, Card Making, Advent Chain Calendar. If you made an Advent Wreath last year be sure to bring the base back so you can add the greens and candles. (donation $6)

Sunday, December 5th—Second Sunday of Advent-Shepherd’s Sunday

10 to 10 Songs and Celebration; 10:00 a.m. Worship

Scripture Reading: Luke 2: 8-11

Anthem “Quem Pastores Laudavere, arr. Rutter (Women of the Adult Choirs)

Communion-Handbell Choir

Special Offering for Interfaith Shelter Families

11:15 a.m. First Sunday Symposium: Guest Speaker Bob Welch

2:00-5:00 p.m. Youth poinsettia delivery

Sunday, December 12th—Third Sunday of Advent-Mary’s Sunday

10 to 10 Songs and Celebration; 10:00 a.m. Worship

Christmas Choral Sunday: FUMC Choirs & Oregon Brass Society

“Christmas Cantata”, Daniel Pinkham

“There is No Rose”, Caracciolo

“Coventry Carol”, Levy

“Mary, Did You Know?”, Lowry, Green, & Schrader

Special Offering: Sock It To Missions

(for more details look on the back side of the Dec. calendar)

11:15 a.m. Cookie Walk: Cookies will be available to purchase in the South Lobby

6:00 p.m. All Church Potluck Christmas Dinner with the Shelter Families

Sunday, December 19th—Fourth Sunday of Advent-Joseph’s Sunday

10 to 10 Songs and Celebration; 10:00 a.m. Worship

Scripture Reading: Matthew 1: 18-25

Anthems: “Joseph’s Song,” Strathdee (Men of the Adult Choirs)

“Joseph, Dearest Joseph Mild, ” Walther

Special Offering: Sock It To Missions

(for more details look on the back side of the Dec. calendar)

11:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. All-Church Christmas Caroling by Horse-Drawn Wagon

3:00 p.m. Concerts at First: Charpentier’s “Messe de Minuit pour Noël”

by the Unitarian Universalist Church of Eugene Chamber Choir and ByrdSong.

5:00 p.m. “A Blue Christmas”

A contemplative service for anyone who may be grieving, hurting, lonely or simply not connecting to the public joy of the Christmas season.

Friday, December 24th—Christmas Eve

“Christmas Eve Services: Receiving the Gift”

Scripture Readings: Isaiah 9:2-7 and Luke 2: 1-20

4:00 p.m. Music and readings by and for children! There will be warm candle light and fun costumes for all. 7:00 p.m. A candlelight service celebrating the birth of Jesus

Anthem: “On Christmas Night,” arr. Pelz

10:00 p.m. A candlelight service celebrating the birth of Jesus

Anthem: “Christmas Lullaby,” Rutter; Handbell Choir

Sunday, December 26th—First Sunday after Christmas

Children will share Christmas music during this service.

Sunday, January 2nd—Epiphany!

10 to 10 Songs and Celebration; 10:00 a.m. Worship—The Visit of the Magi

Scripture Reading: Matthew 2: 1-12

Anthem: “A New Year Carol,” Britten

11:15 a.m. All-Church Epiphany Party!

Another GREAT family event!

Music Department

Julia Brown, Music Director/Organist

Linda Duffendack Mays, Choral Director

Shira Fadeley, Handbell/Band Director

As we venture into the season of Advent and on to Christmas and Epiphany, we are surrounded by music; in fact, Christmas isn’t just Christmas without singing carols! The music of the season, both familiar and new, helps us explore the symbols and lessons of waiting and expecting during Advent, through the wonder of birth at Christmas. Here at FUMC you will be led by choirs, children, handbells, band members, the pipe organ, brass choir and more. We all will join together with you on Sunday mornings and other times of the week. Please take note of the opportunities highlighted below – a small sample of the full heritage that is given to us. As we hear and sing the art created by diverse groups of musicians and poets, may we be inspired to take the incarnation of Christ seriously and live our lives in the light of God’s love.

FRIDAY NOON ORGAN RECITALS

Continuing to celebrate our new organ console, we will offer noontime organ recitals on three Fridays in Advent: December 3rd, 10th and 17st, from 12:15 p.m. to 12:45 p.m. The concerts are free and open to all. This is an opportunity to get away from the busy-ness of the season for 30 minutes, whether you are a professional taking a lunch break, a student or a retired person. Come listen, meditate, and fill your soul with the sounds of our wonderful pipe organ.

CHRISTMAS CHORAL SUNDAY

The featured musical centerpiece on December 12th is Christmas Cantata, American composer Daniel Pinkham’s most famous choral work, written in 1957 and scored for choir, brass and organ. Christmas Cantata utilizes traditional Nativity texts (sung in Latin). It is inspired by the Baroque polychoral works of Gabrielli and Schütz, blended with irregular rhythms of Stravinsky. FUMC Choirs, directed by Linda Duffendack Mays, also will sing traditional carols and contemporary settings of Christmas music. The brass ensemble, prepared by Roger Rush, will play seasonal music as well.

CONCERTS AT FIRST

On Sunday, December 19th at 3 p.m. Marc-Antoine Charpentier’s Christmas Mass will be performed by the Unitarian Universalist Chamber Choir and orchestra of original instruments, directed by Tom Sears. This delightful Messe de Minuit pour Noël dates from around 1690 and is based on popular carols of the time (Noëls). A cappella madrigals and instrumental Noëls also will be featured in the program. Tickets are $5.00 (proceeds go to FUMC music program).

Dear Member of Eugene First United Methodist Church:

I want to express my appreciation to your church for your gracious hospitality in hosting the Choral Extravaganza! The festival was lively and inspiring and I was touched and impressed by the talent of vocalists, directors, and musicians who came with the goal of giving moral and financial support to the Wesley Center. We are blessed by these young people and by the leadership of the Rev. Warren Light. Thank you for supporting campus ministry in the Oregon-Idaho Annual Conference! In Christ’s Shalom, Bob Hoshibata

Announcements

First Sunday Symposium: Sunday, December 5th sponsored by the Health Ministry Team

“Working with God on my ‘Bucket List’”

Bob Welch, an award-winning columnist from the Register Guard, will be one of our guest speakers. He will share insights and responses to his column “How Do You Want To Die?” and how that reflects on living life to the fullest.

Bob Granger, a recently retired UMC pastor from New York and now a part of our church family, will help us prepare to receive the gifts of love, anticipation and renewal that Advent represents. Thus, we can live our life, whether for a short or long time, as a gift, not only to ourselves but to others and as a gift given back to our Creator God.

There will be time to interact and ask questions of our two Bob presenters, as well as take home our own bucket with the desire to fill it with God’s loving plan for our life.

INTERFAITH SHELTER UPDATE: We’d like to extend a great big “Thank YOU” to the many folks who volunteered to serve during Shelter Weeks. We still are looking for some overnighters, van drivers, family activities people, breakfast cooks, and a couple of dinner cooks. If you haven’t ever participated in shelter weeks before, this can be a very rewarding experience for all concerned, as FUMC opens its doors to provide a home for families who need a warm bed, food, and a bit of Christmas cheer. Give us or the church office (541-345-8764) a call if you can help with one of these jobs. We will be taking up a special offering on December 5, the proceeds of which will go toward Fred Meyer gift certificates for each family member. Thanks in advance for being generous with your time and other resources. See you around the Sanctuary! Lisa Young (541-344-2157) and Karen Ziros-Smith (541-912-1158)

OUR OFFERING OF LETTERS DO MAKE A DIFFERENCE: Bread for the World news release:
“In 2008 our letters supported House and Senate bills urging the administration to carry out a thorough review of developmental policies and institutions. In 2009 our Letters focused on reforming foreign assistance to strengthen it and make it more effective. One of the Offering’s major objectives was met when President Obama ordered a complete review of all U.S. development programs across several federal agencies and dozens of offices. On September 22nd, 2010, President Obama released the country’s first Global Development Policy – a coherent strategy that directs the government on how to handle development issues.” Thanks FUMC for your participation.

The results are in! We are excited to report that the October 3rd Eugene/Springfield CROP Hunger Walk raised $19,594 total for local and international hunger relief! This is such an impressive total this first year of reviving the walk and you all deserve huge thanks! We were so pleased with the participation and the number of walkers, and this fundraising success is just one more thing to be thankful for. 75% of the proceeds will go to Church World Service for their work overseas, and 25% will go to FOOD for Lane County. FUMC raised $1,815.00!

Throughout the Advent season, please donate food for our Food Bag Ministry. Each day we hand out 10 bags of food to hungry people in our community. Please donate: Box fruit drinks, fruit or pudding cups, vienna sausages, individually wrapped crackers, granola bars, plastic spoons, small boxes of raisins and gallon-sized ziploc bags. If you are unable to provide the food items, PLEASE consider a monetary donation to help re-establish the needy assistance fund. Please mark your donation with the words “Food Bag Ministry.” Thank you for your continued efforts to care for the people in our community.

Keep your car’s tires properly inflated and save up to 5 percent on gas. If you fill up at BIO-Sequential, mention FUMC. The church gets a rebate of 5 cents on every gallon!

Poinsettias will grace the chancel area of our church during the holiday season. If you would like to purchase one in memory or in honor of a loved one, please fill out this coupon and return it in the offering plate or to the church office by Sunday, December 5th. Please make checks payable to First United Methodist Church.

In honor of ________________________________________________________________________

In memory of ______________________________________________________________________

Given by __________________________________________________________________________

Suggested Donation: $10.00/plant

Sock it to Missions

1. The Cambodia Mission, with which Betsy Guinn has family ties, will continue. The primary thrust so far has been to support two teachers in two different villages where the salaries are only $500 per year. Learning English is a primary goal, providing greater opportunities for school graduates. A longer term goal is to build medical clinics. None exist in either village now although a foundation has been poured. Some of the teenagers are disabled but would not have been if medical treatment had been available when they were younger.

2. No More Deaths is a humanitarian aid organization that works to end the suffering and death of migrants on the US/Mexican border. Five FUMC members spent a week in the Tucson area this September, hiking the trails to help those in need, leaving water, and witnessing the dangers. More than 250 bodies were found last year. Individuals have died from lack of water, food , sickness, or from minor injuries that caused them to become lost as they tried to walk from the border to Tucson (about 5 nights of walking). Volunteers save lives, hear stories, witness the conditions and come to understand the many perspectives on the issue. Contributions provide water, food, and medial supplies, as well as transportation in the desert and support for volunteers in their work. No matter your stand on illegal immigration, I hope you will support the work of those trying to end the death and suffering of people trying to make a better life for their families.

3. The Guatemala Mission Team in May of 2011 will be putting in ONIL STOVES that are more than 80% efficient over the traditional three rock open fires which cause lots of respiratory and eye problems and are responsible for many severe burns to children. These stoves also help with the deforestation problem in Guatemala (Guatemala is a native word for Land of Many Forests), as well as freeing up to one hour a day for women who work all day long and well into the night for their families. Many of these subsistence farming families have to buy their firewood which takes up to 40% of their budget. They will also be installing WATER FILTERS in homes. This will help eliminate the diarrheal diseases that give Guatemala the highest infant mortality rate in Central and South America. This will also help eliminate other acute and chronic infectious diseases. Some of the homes will also get whitewashed inside and get concrete floors both to further decrease infestations and parasites.

Office: 541-345-8764 Fax: 541-485-5025

Office Hours: Monday – Friday 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

email: eugenefumc@eugenefumc.org

Home Page: www.eugenefumc.org

Visit us on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=128911920648

FUMC STAFF

Debbie Pitney, Senior Pastor

John Pitney, Associate Pastor

Jessi Rich, Youth Director

Dody Hansen, Children & Family Ministry

Julia Brown, Music Director/Organist

Linda Duffendack Mays, Choral Director

Shira Fadeley, Handbell and Band Director

Warren Light, Wesley Foundation Campus Minister

Greg Klabouch, Benedicto Penaloza, Colin Paddock, Custodians

Maria Betancourt, Tiffany Sanderson, Xana McCrea, Child Care

Andrea Allen Sis, Web Page

Jan Sears, Financial Secretary

Sue Sanderson, Office Manager/Messenger Editor

Our Mission at First United Methodist Church is to:

Receive, by welcoming all people into a community of love and acceptance;

Transform, by helping all people experience God’s love in Jesus Christ; and

Send, by empowering all people to be Christian servants in the world.

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The Messenger, November 11, 2010

November 12, 2010, 7:28 am
Filed under: Uncategorized

Dear Friends,

I read recently that good, average, regular worship attendance for a good, average, regular family is once a month. The experience of colleagues in ministry bears this out. Folks tend to come to church once a month.

Having acknowledged this, I hope that those of you who come more often won’t strive to be average and cut back on your attendance! But in case you happen to miss out on worship every once in a great while, I want to point you in the direction of our website. Did you know that you can go to www.eugenefumc.org and find copies of recent sermons? Or go to the website and find out what is happening around First United Methodist Church? Take a look and tell us how we are doing. It is just one way to keep connected to your church community. Beginning soon we will be making audio recordings of the Sunday morning message on the website as well so you can be a part of worship even when you aren’t here.

We would like your feedback. Would this be helpful to you on your journey of faith? Would you listen to a live-streaming of our worship service? What about our First Sunday symposiums or other classes? What about music ministry offerings?

The Membership and Growth Team is interested in finding new ways to reach out beyond the doors of our building to keep us connected and to help us on our faith journeys. Let us know what you think. Let us know if you have some expertise to share. Help us discover new ways to stay in community. The team members are Bruce Haines, Donna Haines, Doug Moore, Colette Moore, Carol Monroe, Nan Ledden, Shelly Krehbiel, Shirley Anglin, and Leone McGuire.

Sunday, November 14, 2010

10 to 10 Songs and Celebration

10 AM Worship

Sunday, November 21, 2010

10 to 10 Songs and Celebration

10 AM Worship & Consecration Sunday

11:00 AM Brunch

4:00 PM Dedication of New Organ Console

Sunday, November 28, 2010

First Sunday of Advent

Interfaith Shelter Dates: Dec. 6 to Dec. 20 - Sign-up in Fellowship Hall on Sundays

BUY A WREATH! SUPPORT FARM WORKER WOMEN!
Once again this year you may purchase Christmas wreaths made by Mujeres Luchadoras Progresistas(MLP), an organization of farmworker women in Woodburn. These beautiful large wreaths are made of noble fir, pine cones, holly, and a red bow and cost $30. If you wish to order a wreath, contact Jane Brolsma at janebro@comcast.net or 541-515-1884. Orders will also be taken Sunday morning following worship on November 21. All orders must be prepaid and wreaths will be delivered Sunday, December 5th. Thank you for supporting farm worker women as they work towards economic and leadership development!

Interfaith Shelter Update

Be a part of our traditional warm holiday welcome for families who find themselves without shelter, and consider volunteering for the Interfaith Shelter (Dec. 6-Dec 20). You won’t regret it. Sign up sheets will be
available in the Fellowship Hall for one more Sunday. Let’s fill up those blank spaces! Also, December 5th, we will take our usual free will offering for the “Giving Tree” so we can provide some flexible cash for the families and let them go shopping while our youth take care of their kids! It is a very special time.

FOOD DRIVE!

Our church is having our traditional Food For Lane County Food Drive from Oct. 31st through Nov. 21st! You can help by bringing in canned food such as soup, tuna, beans, peanut butter, vegetables, etc. During these challenging times, more people rely on everyone sharing what they can. The face of hunger in Lane County may surprise you. Who’s hungry? Your neighbors. Families with children. Adults with disabilities and military veterans. Some are retired. Some are homeless. Thousands are working but still not making enough to buy a sufficient amount of food . The large barrels will be at the back of the Sanctuary to receive your offering.

Working together, we CAN make a difference

Olive Street Boutiques dates: Nov. 12: 4-6:30 $5 admission with treats; Nov. 13: 9:30-3 FREE, Lunch $6; Nov. 14: after worship. Lunch tickets may be purchased in the office Monday – Friday. Blake English and Susan Jackson are cooking up some great Texas red chili (mild), a vegetarian option, cornbread/rolls, dessert. Beverage included. $6.00

The Cancer Support Group meets at noon for a potluck lunch in the church library on Tuesday, November 16th. If you or someone you know are coping with cancer, please join us! If you are able, bring a salad; the rest will be provided. Contact JoAnn Zinniker or Ronnie Egger if you have questions.

Blood Mobile at FUMC, Nov. 14

New Location: Check in at the Parlor

Let’s make this our best drive ever! Plan to come early or stay late. Walk-ins welcome. Giving blood takes about an hour. Have a high protein breakfast. One unit can save 3 lives. Bring your ID. Shop at the bazaar. Wonder if you are eligible? Call Lane Memorial Blood Bank at 541-484-9111 or Gloria Bailey at 541-342-5392.

What is Automated Giving?

Families and individuals can have their offering withdrawn monthly from a checking or savings account they specify.

Saves time and is convenient.
Ensures a steady income for the ministries of the church.
Associated administrative costs are reduced.
Easy to make changes if your circumstances change.

To sign up or if you have questions, please call the church Financial Secretary, Jan Sears, at 541-354-8764.

The Lane Interfaith Alliance cordially invites you and your spiritual community to our annual Songs of Thanksgiving, to be held this year on Tuesday, November 23, at the Church of Christ Scientist, 14th & Pearl, Eugene, starting at 7:00 pm. (Doors open at 6:30 pm). Songs of Thanksgiving is a musical and prayerful celebration of the spirit of thanksgiving as expressed through the songs and music of multiple faith traditions. Your presence will be a valuable contribution toward the sense of family that LIA seeks to promote among the various spiritual communities in our area. We hope you can stay and join in the pie potluck festivities following the service. As this an all-comers celebration of gratitude, we are asking individual attendees to please bring a pie to share.

Dear Friends in Mission:

Thank you for your generous gift to United Methodist Committee on Relief. 100 percent of your contribution will go to Disaster Response. Your gift is a quick response to meet emergency needs around the world. The gift will bring hope to those who need it most. Grace and Peace, Roland Fernandes, General Treasurer and Shawn Bakker, Associate General Secretary.

Energy Tip

You can save lots of energy by washing laundry in cold water AND avoiding the use of your dryer. Hang damp laundry and hand-washed clothes inside on laundry racks. Not only will it save you the electricity normally used by a clothes dryer, it will increase the humidity in your home.

DAY APART FOR HEALTHY HAPPY RELATIONSHIPS

Postponed until January 2011.

Which date is best for you?

January 15 OR January 22?

Call the church office at 541-345-8764.

CORRECTIONS and/or ADDITIONS

Wednesday, Nov. 10: 2:00 PM Alzheimer’s Group

Friday, Nov. 14: BAZAAR TIMES ~ 4:00-6:30 PM

Tuesday, Nov. 16: 2:00 PM Foundation

5:30 Adult Education

Sunday, Nov. 21: 4:00 PM Concerts at 1st dedication of FUMC’s new organ console with Julia Brown.

CARING VISTORS, please turn in your CARDS!

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