JULY The First Methogram Making Disciples for Jesus Christ through Love and Service!

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1 JULY 2018 Dear Friends, Rest. It s a small word but such a big idea. It is also as elusive as it is restorative. Sabbath rest takes on even deeper spiritual connotation. For Jews and Christians, it is a command straight from Mt. Sinai. A little over three years ago, I preached a sermon series on Sabbath. The book that helped guide that series was 24/6: A Prescription for a Healthier, Happier Life by Matthew Sleeth, MD. By the end of the series, Denise and I took seriously the call to find a way to practice Sabbath more faithfully in our family s life. I also began to talk more with our congregation, lay leaders, and our Staff Parish Relations Committee. Together, we determined that our family would be observing a 24-hour day of rest on Friday of each week. For several years now, our family has been embracing a practice inspired by the Jewish Shabbat. We begin each Friday evening with a dinner where we invite our adult children back into our home to light candles, observe a Sabbath meal, share a short table liturgy, and enjoy each other s lives and conversation for the evening. The lighting of the candles has become a key component in this weekly ritual. It s a way of marking time, ushering in God s gift of rest, breathing out the week s worries, and embracing a new reality that will continue into Saturday evening. Our table meal is also at the heart of our new rhythm. It has caused us to remember that Sabbath practice was intended to be communal and shared, not private or individual. Our Friday evenings have expanded to include extended family, friends, church members, other clergy, and community acquaintances. Our dinners include intentional table conversation where we ask each person to share highs and lows from their week and respond to a fun question for the evening. We have shared sacred, vulnerable, and humorous moments around our table that I deeply cherish, and I m confident such moments would not have existed without our weekly Shabbat. Since that time three years ago, much has happened. My wife is now working for Sabbath Living, a ministry of Blessed Earth headed up by Matthew and Nancy Sleeth. Sabbath Living equips clergy and congregations to recapture the biblical rhythm of Sabbath. The goal is to promote spiritual vitality and emotional well-being through a healthy, holistic approach to work and rest. Because of these intentional efforts in our church to reclaim Sabbath rhythms, First United Methodist Church has now been identified as one of two Sabbath congregations in our conference. Some of you have already filled out surveys or had interviews around your own personal and family rhythms of work and rest. I also want to encourage all our teams and committees to consider taking a meeting break for the month of July if possible, as a way of adding a restful rhythm to the year. Sabbath is more than just a day off each week. It is a way to mark time, rest from labor, and allow God s Spirit re-create us anew. It is time that should be present in our daily, weekly, monthly, and even annual rhythms. I want to encourage all of us to reflect prayerfully on how we observe God s command to remember the Sabbath and keep it holy. It is one of important ways God reminds us to be human beings and not merely human-doings. Working, Resting, and experiencing Re-creation with you, Pastor Kevin FUMC-Graham 303 North Main Street Graham, NC / Pastor G. Kevin Baker The First Methogram Making Disciples for Jesus Christ through Love and Service! JULY 2018 Every member a Minister Page 1

2 Worship Evangelism Message: 15 No one lights a lamp and puts it under a bowl; instead it is put on the lampstand, where it gives light for everyone in the house. 16 In the same way your light must shine before people, so that they will see the good things you do and praise your Father in heaven. Matthew 5: UMW Candle Burning Service The United Methodist Women Candle Burning is one of the seven avenues of mission giving. Anyone (men and women) may give to Candle Burning, as it is not just limited to United Methodist Women. Donations may be given in memory or in honor of an individual or a group. All of the money contributed goes to missions dedicated to the needs of women, children, and youth. This is a great way both to support missions and to honor or memorialize family members and friends. The 2018 Candle Burning will be held on Sunday, July 15 at both The Well and the 11am worship services. Forms will be available in the bulletins on July 1 and July 8 and can also be downloaded from E-News. SUMMER SUNDAY SERMONS The first two Sundays in July, please join us in welcoming guest speakers while Pastor Kevin is on vacation. July 1 Brian Yoder will deliver our message. Retired United Methodist minister Rev. Jeanne Neal will preside over Holy Communion. July 8 Rev. Ray Wittman will deliver our message. Rev. Wittman is a retired United Methodist minister who most recently served Front Street United Methodist Church in Burlington. (He is also Paul Abbott s father-in-law!) Then, join us for a new sermon series beginning July 15 and continuing through August: ALIVE TOGETHER IN CHRIST: A SERIES ON THE BOOK OF EPHESIANS July 15 A Blessed and Called People July 22 Crucifying Alienation July 29 The Open Secret August 5 Equipping God s People August 12 Walk in the Light August 19 Prepare for Battle Children s Sunday: Rescued by Jesus The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in Him, and He helps me. Psalm 28: 7 The children of FUMC will be leading our worship service on Sunday, August 26 at 11am (combined service) in the sanctuary. During the service, we will be presenting Bibles to our four year olds and rising third graders, and the United Methodist Women will be presenting certificates to children and youth who completed their summer reading program. If your child is 4 years old or in the 3rd grade, and you have not been contacted by Mr. Brian, please him at brian@fumcgraham-nc.org. Page 2 Every member a Minister JULY 2018

3 Connect REFUGE Robeson County Mission Trip Join us in July 2018! The REFUGE Youth of First United Methodist Graham will be visiting Robeson County, NC for a week-long mission trip to serve the needs of the people there. We will be assisting individuals with physical disabilities to regain mobility through the construction of wheelchair ramps, as well as ministering to their families by demonstrating the love of Jesus Christ in a very tangible way. Please pray for our Youth, Adult Leaders, and cooperatives in Robeson County this year. The trip is scheduled for July Cost is $150 per person ($75 due ). Contact us at youth@fumcgraham-nc.org for more info, or call 336/ , ext Lindsey Nash 7.1 Elizabeth Rich 7.2 Grover Huffines 7.2 Pat Stuart 7.4 Millicent Linens 7.4 Susan Rayle 7.5 Tara Davis 7.6 Alex Bean 7.7 Kennedy Thornton 7.7 Chad Royal 7.9 Jeff Van Pelt 7.10 Brennan Wyatt 7.10 Gary Wyatt 7.10 Larry Hill 7.13 Lanie Snyder 7.13 Brenda Hudson 7.14 Alex Beaver 7.14 Linda R. Ezzell 7.14 Kaitlin Abbott 7.15 Wyatt Williamson 7.15 Laura Brink 7.16 Nate Small 7.18 Travis Woody July Birthdays 7.18 Matthew Dillon 7.18 Greg Hook 7.19 Dustin Woodmansee 7.20 Fred Beaudet 7.20 Sean Cook 7.20 David Bell 7.21 Matthew Fenton 7.21 Scott Brantley 7.21 Mickey McCoy 7.22 Juliette Walker 7.22 Ashley Lowe 7.22 Alexa Rhew 7.23 Jared Hurt 7.23 Riley Gulledge 7.23 Pam Spurrier 7.24 Orion Johnston 7.26 Lee Simon 7.27 Louise Collins 7.27 Mike Brumble 7.27 Victor Cloyd 7.28 Jim Folks 7.28 Ferris Matthew Way 7.28 Lucy Margaret Way 7.29 Tim Perry 7.29 Zeke Peyton 7.29 Geraldeen Warren 7.30 Leigh Hayes 7.31 Amanda Haveman Contact the church office (336/ ) with changes. The following young people were celebrated at our annual Graduate Sunday service on June 10: Left to right: Emily Fenton (EAHS), Eric Fenton (NCCU), Jacob Brown (UNCP), Deanna Polito (ASU), Ryan Allshouse (ECU), Rebecca Henry (GHS), Matthew Rollins (SAHS). Not pictured: Elijah Albright (BCA), Jackson Brink (WCU), Maddie Crissman (American U), Parker Nash (UNCW), Meagan Sisco (ASU), Mikayla Tate (ASU). Please call the church office ( ) with changes. JULY 2018 Every member a Minister Page 3

4 In Our Thoughts and Prayers Doug and Clara Bayliff Betty May Diane Turner Barnes Michael Melanson Gretchen Briggs Pam McDonald Myra Brown Worth McPherson Jane Bryan Nell Mooney Curtis Clapp Revonda Barnwell Mosher Nancy Clark Donna Peterson Jackie England Loby Phillips Toni Ennis Frances Price Alma Euliss Mary Evelyn Rich Michael Few Phil Richards Gwen Hall James Ryan John Hancock John Schweitzer Betty Hardt Mike Smith Candice Harrod Susan Stapleton Judy Hayes Janice Stutts Bob Hood Mary Ann Van Pelt Brenda Hudson Clyde and Marie Ward Elizabeth King Max Way Susan King Vivian Williamson Carolyn Lapham Sue Willson Barbara Lowe Dillard & JoAnn Witherow Robert Lynch Earl Wood Please call the church office (336/ ) or to request changes or additions. Church-Wide Intergenerational Fall Kick-Off at Camp Chestnut Ridge Sunday, September 9 2-7pm Spend an afternoon with the FUMC Graham church family! From 2:30-5pm, enjoy camp activities such as Canoeing/kayaking Archery Zip-line Inflatable lake toys Swimming pool Preschool fun area At 5pm, enjoy a hot dog supper followed by large group games. The fun event will conclude with s mores around the campfire. We hope to see you there! Coming Soon Vacation Bible School! Shipwrecked Rescued by Jesus July :30-8:40pm nightly (Preschoolers may be picked up at 8pm.) Contact Jennifer Easter or Candice Harrod for more information! G. I. JUSTICE WORK- SHOP: University United Methodist Church in Chapel Hill is sponsoring a FREE workshop led by Iraq veteran Logan Isaac. Clergy and laity are encouraged to attend to learn more about advocating alongside soldiers and veterans in our community. The workshop will be held in the Chapel of University UMC (150 E. Franklin St.) on Monday, July 2 from 5:30-7:30pm. Register online at Page 4 Every member a Minister JULY 2018

5 Serve N e w A c q u i s i t i o n s New Resources for Youth Added in 2018 Title: Because of Mr. Terupt and the sequel Mr. Terupt Falls Again Author: Rob Buyea Summary: Memorable teacher teaches more than academics to the students in his class at Snow Hill School Title: The War That Saved My Life and the sequel The War I Finally Won Author: Kimberly Brubaker Bradley Summary: This historical fiction places Ada, an abused and handicapped child, in the country outside London during WWII. Sounds, depressing, but so heartwarming! Title: The Crossover and a sequel The Playbook: 52 Rules to Aim, Shoot, and Score in This Game Called Life Author: Kwame Alexander Summary: The Bell twins are best friends and basketball stars until Jordan meets a girl! The author uses poetry and hip-hop in this verse novel. The Playbook is an inspirational self-help book for kids. Example: CHAMPIONS TRAIN, CHUMPS COMPLAIN Title: A Wrinkle in Time Author: Madeleine L Engle Summary: Read or reread this classic novel about family, space, time, and tesseracting before you see the movie! Coming next month: New Resources for Children Added in 2018 Title: Live Original: How the Duck Commander Teen Keeps It Real and Stays True to Her Values plus the sequel Live Fearless: A Call to Power, Passion, and Purpose (new release) Author: Sadie Robinson Summary: This TV star tells teens how to live to their potential without fear while becoming who God created them to be. JULY 2018 Every member a Minister Page 5

6 Summer Kids on a Mission Burlington Pet Adoption Center Saturday, July 21 9am-1pm Our children (completed kindergarten-5th grade) will bake dog treats and deliver them plus the money they collected during VBS to the Pet Adoption Center in Haw River. They will also be receiving a tour of the shelter. Children should wear comfortable clothing (tennis shoes are mandatory) and bring a bag lunch with a drink and an FUMCG permission form. After lunch, we will walk across the street for Smitty s Ice Cream (paid for by the church). Please Brian (brian@fumcgraham-nc.org) with any questions. Children are welcome to bring additional items such as leashes, collars, small toys, and treats to donate to the shelter. Give Memorials & Honoraria In Memory Of Given By Ed and Carolyn Barnes Jane Ferrell Janet Hardie Janet Woody David and Carol Steele Gene and Elaine Caudill Don and Dot Lee Charles and Camille Staton Julia Howard Frank and Carol Smith Tim and Pam Mullinax Pat Dixon Barbara Lowe Dr. and Mrs. Bill Garrison Jimmy and Millicent Linens Bill and Fran Bryant Janice Stewart Henry and Jenna Johnson Kathryn Lockamy Sarah Lockamy Nall Polly Clark William and Betty Davis Polly Clark Jane Ferrell Polly Clark UMW Circle #2 Margaret Oldham Gilbert Myrtle Oldham Pugh Joan Dunn Jeff Krummel Jeff Krummel Curtis Rich In Honor Of Rebecca and Caleb Jimmy and Millicent Linens Don and Dot Lee Helen Rhew Charles and Camille Staton Joe Fisher Jerry and Patsy Clapp Frank and Carol Smith Frank and Carol Smith Julia Howard Gordon Painter S. S. Class Scott Williams Julia Howard Given By Nancy Thomas Women s Center United Methodist Women Mission Focus for JULY Veterans NEEDED: NEEDED: 1. Diapers (sizes 5 & 6) 1. ChapStick 2. Cereal 2. Hand sanitizer 3. Toilet tissue Leave donations in the church office (Rm. 113), or give directly to Jeanne Owen. To Our Church Family, Richard and I are so very appreciative of the prayers, cards, food, and visits from our friends at FUMC during my recent illness. You have no idea how much your expressions of love and care have meant to us. Though I am definitely getting better every day, we will appreciate your continued prayers for both of us. Love, Toni Ennis The Board of Directors extends our thanks and appreciation to Julia Howard for generously volunteering to donate the funds to refinish the brick floors in the two breezeways, the vestibule, and the outer aisle of the sanctuary along the windows parallel to Albright Avenue. The work was completed on Friday, June 15. How nice of you to be so thoughtful! Thank you so much for the coffee! What a kind, thoughtful gesture! ARMC Radiology Department Page 6 Every member a Minister JULY 2018

7 Back to School Time! School Supplies Needed! While it may feel like summer outside, South Graham Elementary starts back to school on July 23. As you know, our church has partnered with South Graham as part of the Congregations for Children (C4C) ministry outreach initiative of the United Methodist Church. There is tremendous need at the school, and our dedicated efforts are making a huge difference in the lives of the students and their families, as well as the faculty and staff. To get the school year off to a good start, the teachers and students are in need of a variety of school supplies. Can you help meet this need for the kids of our community? Please begin dropping of any of the following items in the South Graham donation bins located in the sanctuary breezeway or coffeeshop. WIDE RULED Notebook paper WIDE RULED Composition notebooks WIDE RULED Spiral-bound subject notebooks Two-pocket folders Plastic pencil boxes with closure tab Children s size scissors Tissues Glue sticks Erasers Rulers Crayons Hand sanitizer SCHOLARSHIPS AWARDED Sunday, June 10 was Graduate Sunday at First United Methodist Church. In addition to recognizing all of our high school and college graduates, fourteen scholarships generously donated by individuals and groups from the church were awarded to the following young people to assist with costs of their higher education. FUMC Scholarship Recipients (Left to Right) Colleen Shields Scholarship Ryan Allshouse (Elon School of Law) Ada White Memorial Scholarship Emily Fenton (ECU) United Methodist Men Scholarship Nolan Wyatt (ECU) T. J. and Hilda Whitehead Scholarship Rebecca Henry (UNC-CH) Young In Heart Scholarship Gabe Parks (ACC) Myrtle Wilson Scholarship Kaitlyn Wood (UNC-CH) New Horizons Scholarship Lindsey Nash (ACC) Enos McDonald Memorial Scholarship by Gordon Painter Class Jamie Rollins (UNC-CH) Alice Jean Roddy Scholarship Reid Allshouse (ECU) T. J. Whitehead Class Memorial Scholarship Mary Michael McClure (The University of Alabama) Not pictured: Enos McDonald Memorial Scholarship by Gordon Painter Class Chris Lowe (Florida Gulf Coast University) New Horizons Scholarship Brianna Riley (Averett University) O. Hulon Briggs Scholarship Laura Brink (UNC-G) Ada White Memorial Scholarship Ashley Lowe (University of Oregon) JULY 2018 Every member a Minister Page 7

8 The First Methogram (USPS ) Periodicals Postage Paid at Published Monthly by Graham, North Carolina First United Methodist Church 303 N. Main Street Postmaster: Send Address Changes to: Graham, North Carolina The First Methogram 303 N. Main Street Graham, North Carolina WE THANK GOD FOR: SUNDAY SCHEDULE: The Well Service 9am, Sunday School: 10am, Traditional Worship Service: 11am Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat 1 7am Men s Breakfast 5pm First Place 5pm Youth 8 Meet and Greet 5pm First Place 5pm Youth Independence Day 9 7pm Friendship Circle 10 7pm Board of Directors 7pm Cub Scouts 11 7:30pm Choir 5 8:15am Thurs. Prayer Breakfast 7pm Girl Scouts 7pm Praise Team 12 8:15am Thurs. Prayer Breakfast 5:30pm Exchange Club 6:30pm Girl Scouts 7pm Praise Team 6:30-8:40pm Vacation Bible School UMW Candleburning 5pm Youth pm Cub Scouts 18 7:30pm Choir 19 8:15am Thurs. Prayer Breakfast 5:30pm Exchange Club project 7pm Girl Scouts 7pm Praise Team pm Cub Scouts 25 7:30pm Choir 26 8:15 Thurs.Prayer Breakfast 5:30pm Exchange Club 6:30pm Girl Scouts 7pm Praise Team pm Peak Worship REFUGE Youth Robeson County Mission Trip :30pm Missions Committee 31 7pm Cub Scouts Page 8 Every member a Minister JULY 2018