Cultivating Christ’s Presence in Our Congregation

September 2013 Volume 11, Issue 9

CULTIVATOR

W hat is now being called The Flood of 2013, began sometime over the

weekend and was discovered by Congregational Care Pastor Jody Wallin, early Sunday, August 11. When the elevator door opened to the basement, Jody discovered about five-inches of water covering the entire basement. Building Administrator Jayson Hart says Rainbow Plumbing was immediately called. It took two days to remove the water and several more days to dry out the basement. Rainbow Plumbing isn’t certain what caused the water leak nor the exact source of the water. There is a sump pump in the basement and it was working properly at the time of the discovery. The water was ‘clean’ water and not contaminated with sewage. For those who are not familiar with the basement, this is a very large area housing many functions of the church. Primarily, it is where the sanctuary choir rehearses and stores all of their robes, music library

Flood Damage, continues on page 2

Grateful students from West Texas Music Academy surround Church Administrator Jayson Hart. Our church donated four unused pianos that had been stored in the basement. WTMA director, Steve Lollar, says the pianos are water-marked but not

damaged and are a great gift.

Flooded Basement “Could Have Been Worse”

Draw the Circle: 40 Day Prayer Challenge On September 22, Pastor Terry Tamplen is asking our congregation to “Draw the Circle.” What is Draw the Circle? A 40-day prayer challenge. Drawing prayer circles is a metaphor that simply means “praying until God answers.” Too often we quit circling almost as soon as we start. “This piece of chalk represents a turning point, a moment of surrender, a change of heart. It marks the difference between

those who would pray, "Lord, change them" and those with the humility to plead, "Lord, change me!" It is a piece of chalk with which we kneel and draw a circle around ourselves and then look to heaven expectantly and pray, "Lord God, send revival, and begin it right here in this circle!" - A quote from members of other churches who have taken the challenge. Do you pray often and boldly? Prayer is a spiritual discipline. This prayer challenge is one way to experience a deeper, more passionate, persistent, and intimate prayer life. The material is from the devotional book Draw the Circle-The 40 Day Prayer Challenge by Mark Batterson, author of The Circle Maker. It is filled with faith-building stories of God’s answers to prayers, daily scriptures, and prayer prompts. It is meant to encourage and give us a desire to become bolder in our prayers and experience growth in our faith. The prayers we are to pray are for God's glory not ours. They are to further His kingdom and to draw us and others closer to Him.

Draw the Circle, continues on page 4

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and other items. Boy Scout Troop 91 meets in the basement and stores most of its gear there. The Challengers Sunday School class also meets in the basement. Because the basement had not been easily accessible prior to the installation of the elevator, many of the unoccupied rooms have been used as storage for Children’s Ministry stage props, outdated-but-still-useful toys and equipment, worship items, floral arrangements, and furniture. All of the Advent and Christmas decorations are stored in the basement. Because most of the Christmas items were stored in cardboard boxes that were soaked in water, every box is being inspected for exposure to mold. At least one of the new sanctuary lighted-trees will need to be replaced. Yards and yards of garland were also soaked, as were many of the ornaments. Insurance adjusters toured the basement on August 21. As of print time for this

Cultivator, it is too early to know whether/or how much insurance will cover the damage. Building Administrator Jayson Hart says many blessings have come from the flooding. Our $30,000 hand bells had been borrowed by another group who were slow in returning

them. That tardiness saved the hand bells from being in the basement. Eight pianos that were once used by various Sunday School classes were slightly water-marked, but otherwise not damaged. Four of those pianos were donated to the West Texas Music Academy.

Being ever-faithful and optimistic, Jayson jokingly says that the best blessing of all is that the flood forced everyone to ‘finally clean out the basement and get it properly organized for many other uses.’ Jayson thanks the many volunteers, including

the Student Ministry and Boy Scout Troop 91, who helped clean up the soggy mess.

Staff members Jayson Hart, Mary Blain and Sylvia Watts sort through the soggy boxes damaged from the recent flood in the basement. The top picture shows some of the many items kept in the basement.

Flood Damage, continued from page 1

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Super Summer Salad Luncheon For UMW

Sunflowers and vibrant United Methodist Women brightened the dining room of the Fellowship Center, August 8. Women of all ages gathered for a Summer Salad Luncheon and to learn about UMW. Discipleship Pastor Karin Carlson’s inspiring presentation about “Making Life Happen” was the highlight of the meeting.

M aking It Happen! That is how the United Methodist Women at First Methodist launched

their 2013-2014 year at their August luncheon. This year’s theme is the same as the one adopted by the national organization. Discipleship Pastor Karin Carlson presented the members and their guests with the four primary focus areas for UMW: (1) to be a community of women; (2) to know God; (3) to develop a creative and supportive fellowship; and (4) to expand concepts of mission. She expanded on ways each of us can individually carry out these purposes in our lives. She spoke of how one person can make a difference and reminded us of Noah building the ark and how the rainbow reminds us of how we can make that difference. She reminded the group of John Wesley’s description of Christian perfection “a heart habitually filled with the love of God, love of neighbor, as having the mind of Christ, walking as He walked.” At the luncheon, ladies enjoyed a lovely fellowship

with friends and guests. They ate home prepared salads while visiting among decorations of fresh cut sunflowers and dried grasses. President Gene Johnson presented the schedule for the coming year and plans for the December 12 covered dish luncheon. The children from the Children’s Center will sing at the luncheon. The Faith Circle meets on the first Tuesday of each month at 7:00 p.m. in Room 104. Faith Circle kicks off its mission emphasis with a bake sale on November 24. Kathy McKelvain will serve as their chairperson for the coming year. New Beginnings Circle will determine their mission emphasis following their pledge service at their September meeting. New Beginnings Circle meets the second Thursday of each month at 9:30 a.m. in the Parlor. Jean Heggemeier is the chairperson of New Beginnings Circle. Each circle welcomes all women who would shares the goals of United Methodist Women.

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C ongratulations are in order for Mike Parker. Mike is one of

our former Stephen Ministers, who recently returned from Dallas, Texas after finishing his extensive training to become one of our Stephen

Leaders. As a Stephen Leader, Mike will be able to assist in the administrative and teaching needs of our Stephen Minister program. Our Stephen Ministry program began in April, 2008 when Pastor Jeanie Williams and Jody Wallin were trained as the first two Stephen Leaders. Jody started the

Stephen Ministry training in October of 2008. Since then, Anne Acreman and retired Pastor Wilma Tune have also been trained as Stephen Leaders, and 21 of our church members have been trained as Stephen Ministers! Stephen Ministers are trained Christian Caregivers who help those in need of one-on-one Christian caregiving help. Women with women, men with men, these dedicated Stephen Ministers help their care receivers go through the difficult times of their lives with a little more TLC than otherwise possible. In addition, the Stephen Ministers use their Christian

caregiving skills to bring God and Jesus into the lives of their care

receivers in a very real and personal way. I hope you will welcome Mike into this new area of ministry in his life. And, I hope that if you need a Stephen Minister, you will talk to Anne Acreman, Mike Parker or Jody Wallin and let them

know of your need. You may also contact one of our Stephen Ministers, the Church office, or Pastor Terry regarding your desire for a Stephen Minister and we will contact you for a follow up meeting. Your Servant in Christ, Jody Wallin, Congregational Care Pastor

Our Stephen Ministry Program Welcomes Another Stephen Leader

Mike Parker Stephen Leader

It was a perfect West Texas night, Saturday, August 17, as team members of Celebrate Recovery and of the Stephen Ministry gathered for a time of fellowship at the home of Marsha and Dee Melton. Sitting under magnificent trees, cooled by a gentle breeze, members were treated to great food and lively conversations.

Batterson sums up the subject of prayer well when he writes—Prayer is the difference between appointments and divine appointments. Prayer is the difference between good ideas and God-ideas. Prayer is the difference between the favor of God and the luck of the draw. Prayer is the difference between closed doors and open doors. Prayer is the difference between possible and impossible. Prayer is the difference between the best we can do and the best God can do. How can I participate? Small groups (6-12 people) open the door for reflection, accountability, support and fellowship. Join us at the Prayer Gathering September 18 at 6:30 p.m., as Pastor Terry launches the 40-Day prayer challenge. Pause on Wednesdays for Praying the Psalms at FUMC

Chapel. Pray together as a community and bring a friend. During the 40 days, pray in a very intentional way each day at 7:14 a.m. Very simply praying in the attitude and posture of 2 Chronicles 7:14, " If my people who are called by my name humble themselves, and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and heal their land." Even if you don't attend FUMC, this prayer’s emphasis may be a needed step in your journey with Christ. The goal of the 40-day prayer challenge isn’t to get what you want by day 40. In fact, the goal isn’t to get what you want at all. The goal is to figure out what God wants, what God wills. Then you start circling it in prayer and don’t stop until God answers. See Schedule of Events on Page 7.

Draw the Circle, continued from page 1

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This is the second of a series of stories written by members of the Haiti Mission Trip

The Haiti Mission team consisted of seven students: Megan Carlson, Ashlyn Davis, Keri Lynn Lucas, Travis Riley, Shelby Schlueter, Hannah Silvas, and Alex Wilson. Four adults also participated: Student Pastor Shane Branecky, Discipleship Pastor Karin Carlson, Kris Riley, and Kevin Wilson.

On August 25, our Student Ministry expanded to include grades 6-12. According to Student Pastor, Shane Branecky, one of the main reasons is ECISD is moving to a middle school model in the very near future and several others churches in town are already doing this.

Saturday, Sept. 28 8p.m.—10 p.m.

September 22 6:30 p.m.– 8:00 p.m. 

I was in awe of what God is accomplishing in Haiti through people who are obedient to answer the call to serve. Some are there long term and some short, but all are willing to sacrifice and be uncomfortable in order to do God's work in Haiti.

I wonder what God can accomplish in the mission field of Odessa if we are equally obedient and willing to sacrifice? Can't wait to find out! — Kris Riley

Kris Riley holds a child during a vacation bible school worship service at the Mission of Hope in the village of Bercy. The mission team also painted a house and planted trees in one of the largest deaf communities in the world.

echo-Student Ministry Welcomes 6th Graders

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Go to our website—www.fumcodessa.org

and click the LIKE button

Birthdays Are Listed on Web: fumcodessa.org Click on ‘About Us’

Then Click on ‘Monthly Birthdays’

WELCOME NEW MEMBERS

Tamara and Joshua Stumpner, Asher and Lily, joined our church, August 4, by transfer of membership/profession of faith. Josh is employed by Halliburton. Tamara is a homemaker. They are active in Mosaic Sunday School class.

Scan this QRC (Quick Response Code) with your smart phone to link to the online giving page on our website. Use it to make contributions, donations, or to pay for registrations.

Blessing The Backpacks The students of FUMC

brought their backpacks on Sunday, August

25th to either the Traditional or

Fellowship Service to be blessed. Tammy Stallcup and

Pastor Terry gave words of encourage to

the children.

Text Message

If you would like to receive up-coming event text alerts, text FUMC to

the number 62953.

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Memorials

The Food Pantry In Memory of

James Frances McCraw Given by

The Boosters Sunday School Class

Children’s Clothes Closet In Memory of

Patty Kunz Given by

Vicki Dublin Patrick In Memory of

Dorothy Kerby Hamilton Given by Dan & Robbie Brazelton

With Sympathy To:

Bill and Debbie Heard on the loss of Debbie’s mother

Barbara Gates

Amanda and Jayson Hart, Haley and Hagen

on the loss of Amanda’s grandmother Alene Drinkard

Shirley Rybolt, on the loss of her husband

E.L. “Leon” Rybolt

Sandy and Dan Hamilton, on the loss of Dan’s mother Dorothy Kerby Hamilton

PistolAnn Rose Gardenhire was baptized on August 11. PistolAnn is the daughter of Heather Gardenhire and the sister to Gunner Gardenhire and Jeremy Dean. She was born May 21, 2013.

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Thank You From Mended Women’s Ministry

UMC Family, Thank you so much for your generosity in letting Mended use your copy machine for our fundraising materials. What a huge blessing for us! Thank you for your consistent willingness to serve and bless others! Love, Allison & Holly

NON-PROFIT ORG U.S. POSTAGE

PAID PERMIT NO. 43

ODESSA, TEXAS 79761

RETURN SERVICE

REQUESTED

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415 N. Lee Odessa, TX 79761

First United Methodist Church, Odessa, Texas, founded in 1890, is a community of Christians who have pledged to support this church with their presence, their service, their gifts and their prayers. We dedicate ourselves to spreading God’s Word throughout our community and to providing meaningful worship experiences, fellowship, and opportunities to fulfill the teachings of Jesus Christ through a variety of ministries. As United Methodists, “our doors, our hearts and our minds are open to all those who seek God’s Grace.” The CULTIVATOR is a monthly publication whose exclusive purpose is to help FUMC-Odessa accomplish its Mission by communicating and “cultivating” the presence of Christ in the lives of this congregation.

Bring A Friend This Sunday

8:00 AM

Adult Bible Class

9:00 AM Traditional Worship —Sanctuary

10:00 AM

Sunday School, all ages

11:00 AM Fellowship Worship —Fellowship Center

10:16 AM The Bridge Worship, —at LBJ Elementary 6401 Amber Dr.

School Supplies Now Available Year-round

FUMC Outreach will be keeping a stockpile of school supplies to help Cavazos Elementary teachers who request supplies for students with needs after the school year begins. These supplies will also assist requests from the Clothes Closet, Food Pantry or FUMC Daycare. Many organizations donate supplies at the beginning of school but in the spring there is also a need. FUMC will reach out to the teachers who know which students are in need and can contact the church. Prayer and support of the teachers are each ways to show God’s unconditional love.

School Supplies In Stock at FUMC

Glue- 4 or 8 oz Large glue sticks #2 pencils- no mechanical pencils Eraser (pink) Markers - 8 count classic washable Crayons-16 or 24 count Map colors (12 count) Ruler (inches and cm) Pocket folder with brads Supplies bag with zipper 3-ring binder (1 inch or 3 inch) 1-subject notebook wide ruled Ream of Printer Paper for the teachers

*Items may be brought on Sundays to the Welcome Centers or during the week to the church office.

Please, Help Us Stock Up!