SOUTH CAROLINA UNITED METHODIST CONFERENCE June 2012 Hand-in-Hand in the Rock Hill District Message from the District Superintendent June 17 A theological reflection on change would be grand exercise for someone much more brilliant than I. Recently, an essay noted that truly we cannot create change for it is an ongoing matter of living organisms. What we can create are our responses to change. Wow, why does that seem vaguely heretical? On one level, we have been challenged for the past decade to rethink, reboot, and in one Rock Hill congregation, relive church. We are told to adapt or be obsolete. Motivators remind us of the need to constantly reinvent. Doesn t that mean that we must change? Pentecost Sunday last week, however, suggests that it is not so heretical to suggest that we live in the midst of the breath of God and that God is setting the parameters for our responses. We do not have to rethink but to follow On the Inside Page Immerse 2012 District-wide Comings & Goings & Congratulations Letter from District Lay Leader Church Happenings Aldersgate UMC Position Vacancy VBS Bethel UMC Salkehatchie Camp Clover First UMC Family Ministry Event Forever Young Day Trip Summer Children s Programs Osceola UMC Spring Fun Day Craft & Yard Sale Rock Hill Central Charge Picnic Worship Service Church Anniversary Service 2 3 4 5 5 6 6 6 7 7 8 9 9 the breath. We do not reboot but repent, and we have these lives that cannot be mulliganed, as attractive as that is, but can be connected and strengthened. I told you that I m not nearly smart enough for this very large area of life. But it is much on my mind. General Conference behind us, Annual and Jurisdictional Conferences before us; and we hear over and over again of the necessity of change. It seems to me that the listening crowd s response to Peter s word is a great example for us. Standing outside the Upper Room, they hear a witness of Jesus given in their own language. And they say, What should we do? Peter s call to repentance is simply to live in this moment of now. Repentance is not starting over but turning aside in a new direction. Surely, you have in your mind a litany of new directions that have suddenly appeared. I keep getting emails from Tim Rogers with new directions to clergy processes that were enacted by General Conference. It must be said that some of the new directions have felt a lot like pain. Many of the clergy feel a real sting in losing a cherished part of the covenant and a deep hurt that no discussion was a part of the vote (continued on next page)
Page 2 Hand in Hand in the Rock Hill District June 2012 regarding guaranteed appointments. Pension changes were made that directly impact the life of the local congregation and the pastors. Please forgive an editorial comment but I served on the legislative committee of Financial Administration. My sub-committee was Pensions and Insurance. I came away with two strong opinions: first, it is insurance costs that are financially draining the local congregation and second, the majority of United Methodists are quietly supportive of pensions and church contributions to pension, but there are a few loud voices that speak in the language of Wall Street. The redefined CRISP is a defined benefit and direct contribution just like we have now but with lower matching funds from congregations. However, pension questions will stay with us until we get a handle on insurance matters. With moving day in the next 27 days, many of you will have a turning in life. Really, every one of us will have that new reality for we are connected. It is startling to think of who and what tomorrow brings to us whether we are in the first or seventh year of our current appointment. We live within the breath of God. What shall we do? Blessings, Sara CONFERENCE EVENT Immerse 2012 Youth Leaders - Get your youth groups registered for Immerse - July 24-29, Lake Junaluska. Hope to see you there. Click here for more information: http://www.umcsc.org/youth/immerse.html Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God s will is his good, pleasing and perfect will. Romans 12:2 Newsletter information: We want to know all there is to know about your church s activities, news and upcoming events. So send your articles, announcements, pictures, etc. to Teresa Glass, tkg278@carolina.rr.com by the 25 th of each month.
Page 3 Hand in Hand in the Rock Hill District June 2012 District-wide Comings and Goings, June 2012 Moving within the District Rev. Harry Gindhart to Belair/Osceola Charge Rev. Karen Richmond to Fort Lawn/Van Wyck Charge Rev. Bryson Williams to Chester Circuit Moving from the District Rev. Jacqueline Connelly to St. Paul, New Ellenton Rev. Brenda Curtis to Emma Gray Rev. Joseph Curtis to Greer Memorial Rev. Angela Etheredge-Manly to Tabernacle/Dawsey Charge & FMU Wesley Foundation Rev. Mallory Forte to Union, Irmo Associate Rev. Lois Helms to Edisto Charge Rev. Kathy Hudson to John Wesley, Associate Rev. Kathy James to Director of Connectional Ministries Rev. Narcie Jeter to University of Florida Wesley Foundation Rev. Josh McClendon to Shandon, Associate Rev. Dr. Larry Parker to Trinity, Aiken Rev. Kyle Randle to First, Conway Rev. Glenn Ribelin to Kelton Charge Rev. Michael Ritter to Trinity, North Myrtle Beach Rev. Gayle Summey to Trinity, Honea Path Rev. Dr. Frederick Yebuah to District Superintendent, Orangeburg Moving into the District Rev. Beth Drennen to Catawba/El Bethel Charge Rev. Dr. Sheila Elliott to York/St. James Charge Rev. Ricky Howell to Winthrop Wesley Foundation Rev. Betty Kay Hudson to Lynnwood Rev. Brian Humphries to Grace, Lancaster Rev. Heather Humphries to Tabernacle Rev. Pat McCain to Trinity, Lancaster & Bethel, Lancaster Rev. Bill McCown to St. Luke/Salem Charge Rev. Joel McMakin to Pleasant Hill Rev. Charles Phillips to First, Lancaster Rev. Emily Sutton to Bethel/Philadelphia Charge Rev. Eddie Usher to Woodland Rev. David Ussery to Mt. Dearborn, Heath Chapel Rev. Allen Wolfe to Bethel/Armenia Charge Congratulations, thanks for a job well done, and best wishes in the next phase of your journey in Christ to: Rev. Kathy Priest Hudson, Grace, Lancaster, and Rev. Willis E. (Rett) Haselden IV, St. John s, Rock Hill, Associate, who will be ordained as Elders and received as Full Members of the Annual Conference on Wednesday, June 13. Rev. James E. Elder, Zion, Lancaster, who will be received as an Associate Member of the Annual Conference on Wednesday, June 13. Rev. Mallory Forte, First Lancaster, Associate, Rev. Andrew (Drew) C. Martin, First Clover, Associate, and Rev. C. Bryson Williams, El Bethel, who will be commissioned as Provisional Elders of the Annual Conference on Wednesday, June 13.
Page 4 Hand in Hand in the Rock Hill District June 2012 Saddened, Grateful & Full of Hope - Message from District Lay Leader As I think about these past eight years of serving as the Rock Hill District Lay Leader, I write this with mixed emotions because as I contemplate my heart senses a bit of sadness, realizing that my term ends at this year s Annual Conference. At the same time, this feeling of sadness immediately changes to joy and a renewed sense of hope. I am deeply grateful and humbled by the opportunity that I have had to serve the church in this capacity. It has been a wonderful privilege to serve the Rock Hill District under the leadership of two district superintendents, two years under Rev. Dave Nichols and six years under Rev. Sara White. Wherever I have gone, whether it was in this district or across the SC Conference, attending Lay Speakers Schools, United Methodist Men events, Youth Imagine event, Food Ministries, the numerous committee meetings or speaking in churches, I have been most impressed with how God calls, equips and uses servants with different gifts, backgrounds, ages and resources to fulfill his ministries. I have met and been encouraged by many wonderful brothers and sisters in Christ, both clergy and lay people, who demonstrate a heart for service because of their love for God and their fellowman. The experiences that I have had the privilege to enjoy have helped me grow in my own spiritual journey and for those experiences, I say thank you to all of you! In the role of Lay Leader, I have witnessed the ministries of so many dedicated and committed men and women and have formed lasting friendships because of a common bond with those who love serving the Lord in ministry. The experiences that I have had the privilege to enjoy have helped me grow in my own spiritual journey and for those experiences, I say thank you to all of you! As Annual Conference convenes, and new leadership is placed in various roles in our district and across our conference, let us joyfully embrace these changes as we are preparing to welcome new pastors, a new district lay leader and congregational specialist, and other new leaders on our district connectional ministry team. This is an opportune time for us to openly accept and appreciate what God has in mind for us as we look toward the future. I am reminded of the words in Jeremiah 29:11: For I know the plans I have for you, says the LORD. They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope. Those words still ring true for us today! Our new District Connectional Ministry structure is implemented and progress is being made in helping us become more effective in ministry, to become more supportive of each other s efforts as we understand that we are in this together with the same common goal of inviting others to Christ! To all of the members that I have served with, it has been my pleasure and privilege and a wonderful blessing for me to have served with you! May God continue to bless our district! Donald Love Rock Hill District Lay Leader
Page 5 Hand in Hand in the Rock Hill District June 2012 Position Vacancy CHURCH HAPPENINGS Aldersgate UMC 2115 Celanese Road Rock Hill, SC 29732 803-366-4637 aldersgate-umc.org Aldersgate United Methodist Church in Rock Hill, SC is looking for a part-time Youth Director (8-12 hours/week). Responsibilities will include the following: Plan and implement age appropriate activities for Middle and High School age youth that promote community through fellowship, fun, and faith development. These activities may include Sunday evening Youth activities, Bible study, retreats, fundraisers, and service projects. Applicants need to be active and passionate about building relationships with young people that strengthen their commitment to the church and grow in faith in Jesus Christ. Submit resumes to Aldersgate UMC, 2115 Celanese Rd., Rock Hill, SC 29732 or SPRC@aldersgateumc.org. Application deadline: June 15, 2012. VBS Operation Overboard: Dare to Go Deep with God! Aldersgate is bringing an underwater universe adventure to the kids at VBS. The children will become divers-in-training as they plunge into God s Word and discover Bible stories of deep faith. There will be Interactive Bible lessons, beginning with the Old Testament story of Noah, and concluding with the New Testament stories of Jesus choosing his disciples. There will be Sea Scriptures each evening. On the final night, June 14, the families of all the participating children are invited to dinner and the opportunity to view crafts made by the children and to listen to songs of faith that they have learned. Parents are encouraged to take time to register their child(ren) and also other family members and friends on-line at aumcblog.org. Registration forms may be obtained by contacting the church office. Each family will receive a music CD of the songs prior to June 10. Dates: June 10-14 Times: 5:30-8:00 p.m. Dinner at 5:30 each evening Location: Aldersgate United Methodist Church
Page 6 Hand in Hand in the Rock Hill District June 2012 Chester Salkehatchie Camp Bethel UMC 101 York Street Chester, SC 29706 803-385-3266 The Chester Salkhatchie Camp will take place June 16-23. Eighteen different denominations of churches will be supporting this effort either with meals, Gatorade/water, snacks, monetary gifts or supplies. Participants will be working on three homes. This is the fourth year of involving and receiving an overwhelming response from community churches. It is quite unique and rewarding. Bethel will also be supporting the Chester First Baptist Church this summer with their mission project of restoring a home in Chester. Family Ministries Event Clover First UMC 124 Bethel Street Clover, SC 29710 803-222-3496 cloverfumc.org Clover s Family Ministries will be hosting Subs, Sundaes & Bingo on Sunday, June 10, at 6:00 p.m. in the Missions & Fellowship Center. Members and friends are invited to come together for a sandwich supper followed by ice cream sundaes and Bingo. Prized will be awarded. Anyone interested in attending should contact Andrea Powell, apowell@cloverfumc.org. Forever Young Day Trip Clover s Forever Young seniors group will be taking a day trip to Old Salem, NC, on Thursday, June 21, leaving at 7:30 a.m. and returning in the evening. The trip will cost $20.00 per person, plus meals. Anyone interested in participating should contact Melva Jones, 803-831-8467, or Andrea Powell, 803-222-3496 or apowell@cloverfumc.org. (continued on next page)
Page 7 Hand in Hand in the Rock Hill District June 2012 Summer Children s Program Clover First UMC will host the following summer events for children: Sunday, June 3 Fun day for 2-year-olds 4:00 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, June 5 Fun day for 3-year-olds 10:00 a.m. 2:00 p.m. Thursday, June 7 Fun day for 1 st 5 th graders 10:00 a.m. 2:00 p.m. June 11 15 Camp Edge for 3-year-olds 10:00 a.m. 2:00 p.m. through Kindergarten (must register through Andrea Powell) Monday, June 18 Fun day for 3-year-olds 10:00 a.m. 2:00 p.m. Kindergarten Wednesday, June 20 Fun day for 1 st 5 th graders 10:00 a.m. 2:00 p.m. June 24 28 Vacation Bible School See summer program flyer at http://cloverfumc.org/clientimages/50079/ summer%20program%202012.pdf Spring Fun Day Osceola UMC 6575 Charlotte Highway Lancaster, SC 29720 Osceola United Methodist Church Evangelism committee hosted a Spring Fun Day for the church and community on Saturday, May 5. Despite the warm temperature outdoors, a wonderful crowd of all ages from infants to senior citizens participated. Events included a number of outdoor games including horseshoes, corn hole, volley ball, badminton and many others. At the end of the evening, hot dogs and hamburgers were served to a crowd of about 50 people. The planners were quite pleased at the turn out and are planning ahead for the next opportunity to evangelize to the community.
Page 8 Hand in Hand in the Rock Hill District June 2012 OSCEOLA UNITED METHODIST CHURCH COMMUNITY CRAFT & YARD SALE SATURDAY JUNE 23RD 7:00 AM UNTIL 2:00 PM - RAIN OR SHINE! BREAKFAST AND LUNCH ITEMS WILL BE AVAILABE FOR PURCHASE INDOOR SPACES ARE AVAILABLE TO RENT FOR $12 AND INCLUDES A TABLE; OUTDOOR SPACES ARE AVAILABLE FOR $7 WITHOUT A TABLE. PAYMENT MUST BE GIVEN TO RESERVE YOUR SPACE AND IS NON-REFUNDABLE. DEADLINE TO RESERVE IS JUNE 10TH AND SPACES ARE LIMITED. FOR INFO CALL ROBIN HUCKS AT 803-417-2258.
Page 9 Hand in Hand in the Rock Hill District May 2012 Picnic Worship Service 2012 Rock Hill Central Charge 765 Rockdale Street Rock Hill, SC 29730 803-327-0099 On a balmy, beautifully sunny Sunday morning on the fifth Sunday in April, members of the Rock Hill Central Charge, their friends and loved ones, gathered at New Hope UMC, 270 Aspendale Road, in the Newport Community of Rock Hill for their PICNIC WORSHIP SERVICE 2012 which, hopefully, will become an annual event. Central to the event was the welcoming of Councilwoman Susie Hinton who spoke to the group about our responsibility as Christians to have more than a cursory knowledge about the governing structure of our lives, so we can help shape what happens and what does not happen in our communities to maximize positive results. Sponsored by the New Hope United Methodist Men, it was a spirit-filled service with good music and wonderful food. The pastor, Rev. Jacqueline Carter-Harris, said, We expected a good turn-out, but the 120+ persons who came out to fellowship and praise God that morning were an immense surprise, and everyone said they are looking forward to next year. Church Anniversary Worship Service Mount Olive United Methodist Church of the Rock Hill Central Charge celebrated its 130 th anniversary on Sunday, May 20, 4:00 PM. The speaker for this notable occasion was a former pastor of the church and charge, the Reverend Jerry L. Gadsden, the current pastor of Wesley Chapel United Methodist Church, Lake City, SC. The theme for the service was How Firm a Foundation. The church history, purpose and needed direction were given through the worship of sermon and song. The church trustees were the designated planners of this grand event. Refreshments were served post the worship service in the Fellowship Hall.