First Connections Aug-Sep 2012

FIRSTConnectionsFirst United Methodist Church Richardson Volume 7, Issue 30 August/September 2012

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outh Ready to Soar

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ew Face in Music M

inistry

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ummer Mission

Opportunities 2012

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chool Group Started in 1979

FIRST Connections (USPS 022-024) is published six times a year, bi-monthly, by

First United Methodist Church Richardson, 503 N Central Expwy, Richardson, Texas

75080. Periodicals postage paid at Richardson, Texas and additional mailing

offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to FIRST Connections,

PO Box 830877, Richardson, TX 75083-0877.

503 N. Central ExpresswayP.O.Box 830877

Richardson, TX 75083-0877972.235.8385 fumcr.com

Senior PastorDr. Clayton Oliphint

Director of Communication & WorshipGloria Scott

Editor/Graphic DesignerElizabeth Gonzalez

Communication AssociateKevin Burns

Website ManagerFrancy CollinsContributorsJoy Anderson

Jill BlevinsPavielle ChrissAllyson GeorgeDiane Grandey

Intentional Faith DevelopmentJoyful Questors

Holly LeeMary LightfootWanda Mitchell

Jim MontgomeryJudy Nordseth

Jennifer Rawlinson

Service of Communion & PrayerChapel 8:15 am & 12 noon

Traditional 8:45, 9:45, 11:00 amDr. Clayton Oliphint, preaching

access 5:00 pmA Contemporary Worship Experience

Dr. Clayton Oliphint, preachingAsian Ministry Chapel 7 pmZimbabwe Worship Chapel 12:15 pm

972.235.8385 fumcr.com

Elizabeth Wilson, Director Inviting & Involving972.996.0134 [email protected]

Kristen Ceaser Inviting & Involving Associate

972.996.0154 [email protected]

We are delighted that you have chosen to worship with us and we hope you find First United Methodist Church Richardson to be both

a welcoming and inspiring community of faith. As summer winds down, you can hear the rumble

of little voices asking…

What will my new backpack look like?Will I have friends in my class?

Who is my teacher?The first day of school can bring a waterfall of emotions as the children

embark on this new chapter in their lives. The same can be true for many of us as we face a new season.

Questions, both easy and hard, can run through our minds. But we are reminded to rest in the comfort of knowing that God is right there with

us… walking hand-in-hand… ALWAYS!“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with

you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9We are excited to join you during this season of your life, as we journey together growing and exploring God’s love. We are available if you have

any questions or would like more information. We look forward to meeting you soon!

Elizabeth & Kristen

Dr. Clayton Oliphint,Senior Pastor

The implication in the Bible is that this gospel is to be shared from person to person and from place to place around the world. The challenge for the Christian church has always been, “what is the best way to share the good news about God’s love for all people?” On the local level our church has a tremendous mission to welcome for Christ, grow people in Christ, and serve people with Christ. How can we communicate this mission to our members and our community? This leads us to the role of our Communications Team. In this issue of First Connections you can learn about this talented team, under the leadership of Gloria Scott. They help keep the members of FUMCR informed about what’s going on in the church, and the community informed about how we as a church are living out our mission.

You’ll also learn in this issue about some exciting plans for growing in our faith this fall; discover some interesting things about some of your fellow church members; and, meet Caitlin Wells, our new associate director of music ministries. Our Communications Team does a great job of keeping First Connections informative, interesting, and fun!

Our worship services in August and September will be extra special. In August we have a series called The List, and in September a series called Linked. Both of these series will challenge us to prioritize what’s important in our lives and to make connections with others who share those values. I’ll see you in worship and around the campus. You are an important part of the communication team—tell someone the good news and invite them to be your guest at FUMCR!

In Christ,

Clayton Oliphint

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Compiled by pavielle Chriss photography FoCUs ministry

College scholarships were awarded to fourteen outstanding First United Methodist Church Richardson seniors at a Scholarship Awards Luncheon on Sunday, May 27th. These scholarships are

made available each year by very generous donors who are members of the congregation. The scholarship total this year is $22,993.89! The graduating youth are awarded scholarships based upon their service through mission work, commitment and dedication to the youth program by attending Sunday school, United Methodist Youth Fellowship, and Bible study, as well as their academic merit.

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SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTForrest Orr Memorial Scholarship Katy OliphintSpencer F. DePuy Memorial Scholarship Jonathan McClellanCraig Kelly Memorial Scholarship Kendall HowenDorothy L. Davis Memorial Scholarship Emily WatsonDavid M. Bailey Memorial Scholarship Carter BartolomeBud and Hazel Green Memorial Scholarship Catherine AndrewsHenry and Essie Pitcock Memorial Scholarship Ashley CaseyThe Rev. & Mrs. Robert Peters Memorial Scholarship Emily Cromwell UMM Award Andrew BryanRuth Thomasson Heart of a Servant Scholarship Alyson SommerfeltSeekers Class Travis ShortSeekers Class Irene NjaguKody Hughes Scholarship Conner ShortJohn Garrett Russell Memorial Scholarship (No photo) Katy Oliphint

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Writing by diane grandey photography by Kevin bUrns

Caitlin WellsSOME INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT CAITLINWhat were some of your most important influences and inspirations? My father, The Admiral. My father was a Rear Admiral in the Naval Reserves and served for four years in the Pentagon before retirement. He began as a sailor at age 18 to pay his way through college and worked his way up. He has worked harder than anyone I have ever met, and yet always found time to make it to my piano recitals, theater productions, choir concerts, and the like with a smile and a hug. He’s a marathoner and inspired me to be healthier. I always strive to make my family proud. I wouldn’t be who I am today without them.What is an interesting fact about you? I have perfect pitch. I was on the cover of People magazine in 2003 for a major weight loss (103 pounds).Describe your perfect day: Spending time with my sweet baby, Madeline (10 months), hanging out with good friends, good food, good music, lots of laughs. I also love to read and rollerblade—not at the same time.All-time favorite movie: The Harry Potter movies.Favorite foods: wedding cake, barbeque sandwiches and hummus.Favorite sport: dancing—is that considered a sport?Proudest moments: the birth of Madeline Rose, conducting members of the Dallas Symphony Orchestra and the HPUMC Chancel Choir for the Vaughn Williams’ Hodie, and the night the HPUMC Youth Choir sang with Mandell UMC in Chicago.Favorite quote: “I thank you God for this most amazing day.” e.e.cummings.What are your favorite music composers/artists? Beethoven, Missy Elliot, Brandi Carlisle, Charles Mingus, Miles Davis, John Coltrane, Mozart, Bach, Black-Eyed Peas, Bareilles, Ray Lamontagne, Lil Wayne, Johnny Cash, Harry Connick, Jr., Eve Cassidy, Damien Rice, Kanye West, Ludacris, Anonymous 4, Conspirare, Project Eve.What is one of the most important lessons you’ve learned in life? Love will win.What attracted you to this job at FUMCR? Everything! I already knew some of the members and the Lightfoots. I had heard so many wonderful things about this church and about Clayton’s leadership. I want to raise Madeline in a loving church environment with a strong sense of community. I cannot wait to get to know the youth and the congregants. I am very excited to call FUMCR our new church home. I am a full believer that God has led us here for a reason. I‘m looking forward to creating opportunities in music and theater where everyone can share their God-given talents.

The Music Ministry at FUMCR just got a tremendous boost! Caitlin Wells joined the music staff July 1, bringing with her a host of talents and an abundance of energy that will enhance our music program in many ways.

Caitlin comes to FUMCR from Highland Park United Methodist Church where she has been Associate Director of Music and Arts. There she directed their Youth Choir and served as Associate Conductor of the Chancel Choir.

Caitlin grew up in Denton, Texas where her father was Chairman of the Journalism Department at UNT while her mother taught theater in nearby Krum. She began her music career with piano lessons at age four and singing in church and school choirs. She has been a choral singer and soloist in the Dallas area since she was fifteen.

Caitlin graduated summa cum laude from University of North Texas with a Bachelor of Music with a concentration in vocal and piano performance, and a Master’s degree (also summa cum laude) in choral conducting. After teaching high school choir in Coppell for a few years, she set out across the world and ended up living for a time in Amsterdam, The Netherlands, with her sister. While living overseas, Caitlin conducted a semi-professional choir of twenty-four singers.

She currently sings with the Orpheus professional chamber choir, and has sung with the Texas Choral Artists and Dallas Bach Society, and Collegium Early Music singers. Caitlin also created Project Eve, a professional chamber choir that performs in the area.

Caitlin’s first love is directing youth choirs. She also enjoys planning musicals and dessert theaters. We have been told that her dessert theaters are incredible! Hopefully, we will have an opportunity before long to see for ourselves.

Caitlin’s responsibilities at FUMCR will include directing the Chapel Singers youth choir, attending youth activities such as Sunday School, UMYF and youth trips. She will also help with the youth band. In addition, she will lead sectional rehearsals and work with and direct ensembles for the Chancel Choir. She will assist and direct dessert theaters and musicals for all ages.

Welcome Caitlin!

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Since 2007 FUMCR has been pleased to host the Greater Dallas Handbell Association’s spring festival, held each year in April. Church, high school and college handbell choirs come from all over the area to ring together for one full day. It is an impressive sight to see up to fifteen bell choirs squeezed into the Bartula Family Life Center gym at one time. Choirs chose their festival music in the fall so that they have plenty of time to prepare for the festival. The choirs gather on the day of the festival and work with a guest handbell clinician for most of the day. A concert that is open to the public is held at the end of the day. After working hard on the music for two semesters, there is great joy in being able to participate in the massed ringing, and to fill the BFLC with joyous music. FUMCR’s own Carillon and Westminster Ringers participate in the festival each year.

This year, the children’s and youth handbell choirs held an end of year concert for the first time. It was a great success. Genesis and Festival Ringers consist of second through sixth graders, and Bells of Bronze (BOB) is made up of high school ringers. These groups play in church twice a semester, and Bells of Bronze often plays in the Shawver Welcome Center balcony between services on Sunday mornings. Directors Kathleen Parsons and Cathy Herring decided to add the spring concert this year, giving the ringers a chance to perform not only more selections, but music of all genres, from sacred to even a bit silly. The final concert piece was a massed ring by all of the groups.

Church member David Casteel recently donated a new set of choir chimes to the FUMCR handbell ministry. Handbells are bronze, but choir chimes are made of aluminum and are tube-shaped. They have a clapper mechanism on the outside instead of inside. The new chimes, because they are the lower-pitched notes, are now the largest in our set. They have a sustained, lush sound that we typically use

along with handbells for variation in sound. Thank you to David for providing this much needed fifth octave of choir chimes.

Handbell rehearsals resume in September. There are groups for 2nd graders through adults. Contact Mary Lightfoot, [email protected] for more information.

Writing by mary lightFoot

Dallas Handbell Association 2012 Spring Festival

Caitlin WellsS

Dallas is such a sports mecca...stay on top of the seasonal sport and you have opening conversation with just about anybody. It hasn’t been that many years ago that if you

weren’t watching the game on TV, you just waited to scan the scores in the morning newspaper. Wow, how things have changed...you can follow any team around the world almost instantaneously...on your ipad, on your phone, or on your computer. Even the television will allow you to see tournaments, games, etc. as they happen if you have purchased the correct viewing package.

What does this say about COMMUNICATION at First United Methodist Church Richardson? To this Communication Team is says “be in the game.” We can no longer depend on one or two options of communicating with the congregation. We are multi-faceted. However, we know that to really “get it” and for YOU to be in the game you need to see and hear about something at least five times. Then, we as a church can get on your action list. Here is what we do:Connections each Sunday morning in the bulletinFirst Links monthly, found in the pewsFirst Connections bimonthly magazineWeb site fumcr.com (Updated site September 2012)E-blasts weekly (Mondays and Wednesdays)Facebook & Twitter material added daily and weeklyAdvertising throughout the communityPosters updated weekly in frames on campusBanners indoor and outdoorScreen announcements in worship and on flat screens on campusUpdated ministry information available at information centers on campusSunday School packets highlight current ministry informationPhotography FOCUS Ministry

We tell the who, what, and where of all that is going on—BUT much more than that—we feel keenly the responsibility of telling the rest of the story. We love writing for you what happened as a result of the ministry or to tell you more about the people in the ever evolving story of FUMCR.

To quote another team manager, “that’s how the team go.” We are not here to entertain you, but we are here to present the FUMCR story in every way possible so that YOU can effectively also be a part of the team.

Writing by gloria sCott & CommUniCation team

photography by Kevin bUrns

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fumcr.com/pages/Communication (banner sizes, contacts, deadlines, and more!)

Favorite Sport: Football, collegiate & professionalRecruitment Date: Joined part-time in mid 90s to develop communication program Favorite Technology: Texting and Phones that have it all!Favorite OutsideCommunication: Television (ESPN & Good Morning America). (I actually watch the ads! Colors used, graphics, slogans. . . test myself on what I remember. . . it is a job hazard!)Favorite FUMCR The manager cannot play favorites.Communication: It is all about the TEAM.Family Stats: Married to Gilbert Scott. Team mgr. for six children, all married, and fifteen grandchildren.Favorite Off-Season Family, travel, and moviesActivity:

Inspiration: Friendships, family, this church, this job and the simple words and declaration “I am a child of God”

director of communicationand worship

COMMUNICATIONteam manager


Use fumcr.com/shout to make a communication request.

Contact all team members at: [email protected]

Favorite Sport(s): Tennis and soccer

Recruitment Date: Joined team in 2007

(FUMCR member since 1999)

Favorite Technology: ipad, iphone; All Adobe software

Favorite Outside ALL magazines! Favorites: Oprah,

Communication: Southern Living, Richardson Living

(and ipad magazine subscriptions)

Favorite FUMCR Website, FIRST Connections,

Communication: Staying Connected eblast

Family Stats: Husband of 22 years (Rodolfo);

Daughter (Alejandra,13); Dog (Tara)

Favorite Off-Season Tennis, beach vacations, reading

Activity: Inspiration: Talented graphic designers;

FUMCR staff; Cancer survivors

editor, first connections

graphic designer

COMMUNICATIONpitcher

Favorite Sport(s): Spectator sports: whatever my kids

are doing, especially soccer and

Ramblers dance team.

Recruitment Date: Joined November 2010

(FUMCR member since 2001)

Favorite Technology: Google Search: I can find anything

I want to know.

Favorite Outside National Geographic and

Communication: Dallas Morning News

Favorite FUMCR fumcr.smugmug.com

Communication:

Family Stats: Husband of 18 years (Greg);

Lucy (15), Trent (13)

Favorite off-season Vacations with my family (winter

activities: skiing; summer adventures to

national parks, Disney, or

other great destinations); then

electronically scrapbooking the

photos and memories.

Inspiration: My kids

website manager

COMMUNICATIONshortstop

Favorite Sport: Football and anything OlympicsRecruitment Date: Joined two years ago, 2010Favorite Technology: Graphic design apps and mobile technology; iPad, Windows phone.Favorite Outside Love the TV Shows “Mad Men,Communication: “Community” and “The Deadliest Catch”… instapaper.comFavorite FUMCR Our Twitter Feed @FUMCR and Communication: FIRST ConnectionsFamily Stats: Wife of 11 years (Cindy); Three dogs: Dachshund (Annabelle), Westie (LaRue), Lab (Maizy) and cat (Atticus)Favorite Off-Season Cooking - especially Texas BBQ & Activity: desserts; Travel; Favorite spots: London, Prague, and Slovakia! Inspiration: Blogs, new startup websites and traveling! Especially interested in fonts and photography! Graphic Designersocial media coordinator focus photograpy ministry COMMUNICATION

catcher, relief pitcher

86,000 bulletins

printed per year

1,051+ FUMCR

Facebook followers

5,322 eblasts per week

330 pounds of toner used per year

542 Tweets Sent from @FUMCR

678 web pages

200,000+ sheets of paper ordered

for programs, bulletins &

inserts per year.

Largest Age Group of FUMCR Facebook Users: 45-54

Average # of LIKES on Facebook Posts: 20

Favorite Sport(s): Walking and YogaRecruitment Date: 2006, Three months on Communication teamFavorite Technology: iphone; “Words with Friends,” “Scramble;” Texting with my kids &

friends (fond of “Emoticons!”)Favorite Outside Home décor and improving quality

Communication: of life like Real Simple; Watching shows like “Storage Wars” and “Pawn Stars” with the family Favorite FUMCR Clayton’s Wednesday e-blasts and

Communication: archived sermonsFamily Stats: Husband of 23 years (Chip), Sons:

Clay (19), Drew (17), Chip’s daughter Mika (28), and our other

“son” Danezion Mills (19)Favorite Off-Season Spending time with family at the Activity: farm, beach or mountains Inspiration: Seeing God at work in my life and

lives of those around me. God’s love as

demonstrated by the wonderful church

staff—they really are “that good!”admin to caring ministriescommunications, senior pastor

COMMUNICATIONfielder

June 2012 Web stats:6,846 visits (1,220 from mobile device)

by 4,187 visitors;22,041 pageviews; 3.22 pages/visit;

Avg visit duration: 2 min 47 sec;Visitors represent 20 countries

FOUNDATIONSThrough Foundations you can begin to equip yourself as you enter into a personal relationship with Christ. Gain knowledge and understanding of fundamental tools that will foster your growth and enrich your experience along the way. Identifying Your Spiritual GiftsDates: Sunday, September 16, OR Sunday, November 4Duration: 1 hour, choose 1 date to attendTime: 11:00 am – 12:00 pmLocation: Room 214Text: none Fee: noneFacilitated by: Rev. Marilyn Dickson You will have the opportunity to learn more about yourself, your relationship with God, your spiritual gifts and your faith journey. A spiritual gifts assessment, group discussion and sharing will help you gain insight into the path God may have for you in this place at this time. Get Acquainted with Your Bible Dates: Mondays, Oct. 1 – November 19Duration: 8 weeks Time: 7:00 – 8:00 pm Location: Harvey Assembly Room 217AText: Get Acquainted with Your Bible by Gary Ball-Kilborne Fee: $8.00 Facilitated by: Angela Jones How did this book we call “The Bible” come to be? What stories does it tell, and how do the stories relate to each other? What can I do to discover the relevance of this ancient text to my modern-day life?

In this 8-week series you will learn about the origins of the Bible, the content of its major story lines, and how to read scripture so that it leads to personal, spiritual growth. All of this will bring you to a greater understanding of the text, a closer relationship with God and a renewed experience of faith and hope in your life.

Methodism 101Dates: Sundays, October 7 - 28Duration: 4 weeksTime: 11:00 am – 12:00 pm Location: Room 212 Text: none Fee: noneFacilitated by: Rev. Fred Treviño Gain an understanding of Wesleyan Heritage by getting to know John Wesley, the founder of Methodism. Increase your knowledge and understanding of United Methodist theology, learn more about the sacraments of baptism and communion and how they make a difference in your life, appreciate how the United Methodist Church is set up to prepare and support Christian growth and action in the church today. Both newcomers and life-long United Methodists will strengthen personal relationships to God and the church in this 4-week session.

Understanding BaptismDates: Sundays, September 9, October 14, November 18, or December 16 Duration: 1 hour, choose 1 date to attend Time: 11:00 am – 12:00 pm Location: Room 210Text: none Fee: none Facilitated by: ClergyThe journey of faith begins with baptism. You will learn more about the meaning of the sacrament of baptism and how we, as a United Methodist church family, uphold and support newly baptized Christians of all ages.

EXPLORATIONSExperience God’s word through scripture and discover how God’s story is intertwined with your own personal journey. Begin connecting what you know and the experiences you have had with the journey that we share. Financial Peace Dates: Sundays, September 9 – November 4Orientation: Sunday, August 26, 6 pmCourse: Begins Sunday September 9 Duration: 9 weeks Time: 6:00-7:30 pmLocation: 203Text: Curriculum provided at orientation Fee: $95.00 Facilitator: Holly Lee and Jim Montgomery

This 9-week program is based on video presentations by nationally-syndicated radio personality and author Dave Ramsey. Ramsey teaches families to communicate about money and equips them to beat debt and build wealth God’s way.

The Names of God Dates: Starts September 26 Duration: Ongoing, 2nd and 4th WednesdaysTime: 12:00 – 2:00 pm Location: Bartula Family Life Center Room 2F Text: The Names of God by Ann Spangler Fee: $15.00Facilitator: Rev. Marilyn Dickson and Rev. Mary HowardThe Bible reveals many fascinating names and titles for God that can yield rich insights for one’s spiritual journey. Group discussion, presentations, and home study questions will be a part of this study.

Exploring Heaven: Fact or Fiction Dates: Thursdays, September 20 – October 25 Duration: 6 weeks Time: 7:00 – 8:30 pmLocation: Room 205Text: None Fee: NoneFacilitator: Dan Hrnack What is heaven? Maybe you have read “Love Wins” or “Mere Christianity.” Or have you seen movies or television shows that portray Heaven. In this study we will explore the popular, secular and Biblical views of Heaven and try to answer the question is Heaven fact or fiction?

No matter which Group Life opportuni-ties you choose, they are all designed to help you grow in Christ. So begin your Faith Training by choosing any of the following opportunities to enrich and move you forward in your own faith journey.


Becoming a Woman of Extraordinary Faith – Session 1(For Mothers with children 6 - 12th grades)Dates: Mondays, September 17 – November 26 (No class Oct. 22)Duration: 10 weeksTime: 6:45 – 8:45 pmLocation: Room 225Text: Becoming a Woman of Extraordinary Faith by Julie Clinton Fee: $25.00Facilitator: Allyson George and Beth SmithGod longs for you to experience God in new ways…and grow into a woman of extraordinary faith. Dig into God’s word, explore motivational stories of remarkable women of the Bible and today. Discover God’s personal promises to you.

Becoming a Woman of Extraordinary Faith – Session 2 (For all women)Dates: Thursdays, September 20 – December 6 (No class Oct. 18 or Nov. 22)Duration: 10 weeksTime: 9:30 – 11:00 amLocation: Room 209Text: Becoming a Woman of Extraordinary Faith by Julie Clinton Fee: $25.00Facilitator: Rev. Debra Hobbs Mason and Beth Smith

VOYAGES Voyages move you beyond the basic knowledge and understanding of the biblical text and allow you to journey deeper in your faith experience. Examine the word and tackle difficult questions. Look beyond your own experience and consider the religious practices of others. Challenge yourself with the text and discussion with others. Understanding Islam Dates: Mondays, October 8 – November 12 Time: 7:00 – 8:30 pm Duration: 6 weeksLocation: Mays HallText: Christianity & Islam Student Handbook, Qur’an Fee: $12.00 Facilitator: Earnest Deadwyler Islam has become the fastest growing religion in the world. Do you want to know more? Want to understand the similarities and differences in Christianity and Islam? Come learn about the Islamic views of the nature of God, the nature and role of Jesus and Muhammad, the Bible and Qur’an, creation, morality and holy living, rituals and traditions, end times and final judgment.

ConnectedDates: Mondays, October 1 – 22 Time: 9:00 – 11:00 amDuration: 4 weeks Location: Harvey Assembly Room 217Text: Bible, Curriculum Packet Fee: $16.00Facilitator: Dick MussettBased on the book The Surprising Power of Social Networks and How They Shape Our Society by Nicholas A Christakis & James Fowler. Power Point lecture and video on the three degrees of connectedness. Discussion of the material will be paramount to understanding of the data.

Bolstering Your Faith…CriticallyDates: Sundays, September 16 – October 28 Time: 9:45 – 10:45 amDuration: 7 weeks Location: Mays HallText: none Fee: noneFacilitator: Ed Frantz A closer look at God, the Bible and Jesus — including new understandings emergent in the past few decades. A taste of theology that is both respectful of classical traditions and open to the new voices and emphases. A course meant to more crisply identify one’s own understandings, while fostering insightful respect for those holding alternative views.

What Faith Isn’t and Is: A Closer Look at HebrewsDates: Sundays, October 7 – 28 Time: 11:00 am – 12:00 pm Duration: 4 weeks Location: Mays HallText: none Fee: noneFacilitator: Dr. Leroy Howe In the light of the 11th chapter of the Book of Hebrews, the New Testament’s fullest account of faith, this class focuses on three questions: (1) How can we have a vital, growing faith? (2) Are we allowed to question things we have been told in the name of faith?(3) What does it mean to be part of a community of faith?

3 Views Plus an AttitudeDates: Sundays, November 4 – 18 Time: 11:00 am – 12:00 pm Duration: 3 weeks Location: Mays HallText: none Fee: noneFacilitator: Ed Frantz My God is accessible and involved…a personal God who cares and is able. My God is hands-off…a God who lets us assume all responsibility for doing as we will. My god is the natural order…a god replaced by the universal laws and constants discoverable by science. All such talk is suspect…revelation,

speculation, conceptualization, metaphysics and models are but tools used to comfort or control. Theism, deism, naturalism, post-modernism…YOUR choice? Why?

Register online fumcr.com

SPEAKERS CORNER September

Listen Before You Leap: MAKING Caring

Relationships StrongerDr. Leroy and Nancy HoweSaturday, September 15

8:30 am – 3:00 pmOgden Fellowship Hall

October In Our Backyard:

Commercial Exploitation of Women and Girls

Panel includes graduates of New Friends, New

Life, a Dallas faith-based organization, as well as

Dallas police officer.Tuesday, October 27:00 pm – 8:30 pm

Mays HallSuffering and Soul Work

Dr. Fred SchmidtThursday, October 18

7:00 pm – 9:00 pmOgden Fellowship Hall

November Melanie C. Gordon

Wednesday, November 77:00 pm

Mays Hall


Details online at fumrc.com/ speakers

Blessing of the Backpacks August 26 8:45, 9:45, 11 am & access 5 pm.

Fall Sunday School Begins September 2.

New Sunday School Curriculum Based on 2 Thessalonians 1:3 “Your faithfulness is growing by leaps and bound. And the love that all of you have for each other is increasing.” “Grow, Proclaim, Serve!” Lessons taught will help your student grow their faith in leaps and bounds! Kids will learn how they can proclaim the good news of God’s love and serve God and neighbor. More at growproclaimserve.com/parents.

Teaching Opportunities More than 60 volunteers needed to teach each Sunday. Easy to use curriculum and supplies provided. Interested? Contact Connie at [email protected].

Teacher Orientation Tuesday, August 21, 7 pm, Sunday, August 26, 6 pm OR Tuesday, August 28, 7 pm.

All Teachers must attend an orientation meeting. Learn the basics, how to use curriculum, safety expectations, and more!

Confirmation/Sixth Grade Start-Up Parent Information Meeting August 19 OR September 2 12 noon, Mays Hall. $2.00 lunch. Reservations online.

Sixth Grade Lock-In September 14-15, 8 pm - 9 am. Cost $5. Late night pizza snack. Parent chaperones and meal servers needed. Contact Allyson George at [email protected].

Confirmation Sunday School Begins September 9, 9:45 am, Room 227.

First Moms For new mothers each Tuesday, 9 -10:30 am. No registration required.

MOPS Twice a month on Monday mornings. Registration required. NOTE: childcare is full at this time.

MOMS Next Wednesdays twice a month at lunch time. Registration required.

Third Grade Bible Presentation September 23, 8:45, 11:00 and access 5 pm. Register online. Include your student’s full name and which hour you will attend.

HEROES Walk-a-thon and Trunk or Treat Saturday, October 27, 4 -7 pm. Kids wear costumes and ‘trunk or treat’ for candy, prizes and more! All benefitting the HEROES Special Needs ministry. Registration required for Walk-a-thon and to host a trunk.

NEW ‘Kids Devo’ Email Program Holly Martin, FUMCR member and volunteer, will send short, periodic emails with messages of encouragement designed for elementary-age children to help them remember, “Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go,” Joshua 1:9. If your child has their own email address, you may add them to the distribution list, or you can receive it at your email address. Email [email protected] to subscribe. You may unsubscribe at any time.



Collin County Business Press recently named FUMCR member Erica Yaeger to their inaugural 40 Under 40 class. Undoubtedly a local force with much to offer, this lady exudes charisma, confidence and competency.

You may already know Erica in her capacity as mother, executive director, wife, publisher, neighbor or community advocate. But read on for a glimpse of the woman behind the many titles.

You’re not a native Texan. How did you end up in Richardson? I moved here after graduating from North Carolina State University to work at Nortel. Nortel is no longer here, but I am!

Describe yourself professionally. I strongly believe that a person is only as good as their network, which is why it’s a professional habit to always look for connections among acquaintances. I see myself as a collaborator as well.

What’s the most surprising item on your desk? A stuffed Beaker—clearly the most misunderstood of all of the Muppets, but I love his passion for science.

You are the executive director of Sci-Tech Discovery Center in Frisco. What makes the facility unique? It is a problem for our country when 85% of American middle school students say they’d rather eat their vegetables, take out the garbage or go to the dentist than do math or science. This is why we have a severe shortage of homegrown innovators and engineers at a time when more and more jobs require math, science or technology. Sci-Tech provides interactive experiences that inspire people to embrace discovery and innovation through the exploration of math, science and technology. Our hope is that visitors will see the fun side of these fields, or “Mind-Stretching Fun.” For example, what better way to learn about the properties of liquid nitrogen than making and sampling liquid nitrogen ice cream? Right now, summer visitors are learning about the physics behind roller coasters with an exhibit called Amusement Park Science and the science of sports via Team Up!

As an extreme multi-taster, what’s your secret to getting it all done? Realizing that I can’t do it all, accepting that my house will not always be spotless and meals may not be home cooked every night. I’m also fortunate to have a supportive husband [of 10 years, Dave Gantt,] who does his own laundry! (I learned recently that this is not normal.) And, I won’t pretend to be superwoman. It takes a small network to keep the house going. I do have a nanny, housekeeper and friends who help when needed.

When it’s time to unwind, what’s your favorite way to recharge? I can easily escape in a book. My daughter is becoming an avid reader as well, so we love to just lie in bed together with our books.

What’s on your nightstand? I use the Kindle app on my iPad, so have dozens of books downloaded. Currently reading

Imagine: How Creativity Works by Jonah Lehrer and The Slippery Year by Melanie Gideon.

How would you spend one uninterrupted day? Free of phones and laptops? I’m not sure what I would do with myself. I’d probably build a massive Lego city with Catherine [9] and Will [6]. We should plan on doing that this summer. Thanks for making me pause to think about it.

You’ve already had an eclectic career. What’s one profession you’d love adding to the list? Author.

When you’ve been named to a list like the 40 Under 40, you obviously have some noteworthy accomplishments. Does one stand out? It still makes me so proud to have Richardson Living magazine arrive in my mailbox every other month. The original vision was to connect communities across Richardson and inspire involvement. Now, eight years and 48 issues later, I’m pleased to say the magazine staff is still doing so.

Clearly you like to build from the ground up. What’s the next big idea or innovation? It’s in the works, so stay tuned. You can expect to see something creative designed specifically to interest young girls in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) initiatives.

Who or what inspires you? My mom, who led me to believe that I could do anything, and my own children, who have the world waiting for them. Our Sci-Tech vision is to inspire a new generation of innovators, engineers, scientists and educators. I count my own children among this generation and am driven to provide them with opportunities for success.

Why do you call FUMCR home? We tried a few local churches before settling on FUMCR. We found (and continue to find!) Pastor Clayton’s sermons engaging, relevant and thoughtful. It felt like a true church community with many young families we could grow with.

How have you been involved at the church? We take advantage of educational opportunities that help us become better parents. Whether participating in the Love and Logic courses, MOPS or Super Mom workshops, I leave feeling like I am better equipped to be an effective parent and lead my children in their spiritual growth. I’ve also enjoyed being a contributing writer to the FUMCR magazine and getting involved in the LCI conference this past year.

Next time you see Erica down the pew, be sure to say hello and perhaps become a part of her network!

as told to Jill blevins

with a Resident DynamoQuestions Conversation


The mission trip to South Africa was an amazing adventure—one filled with hard work, a new relationship formed between two Methodist churches on two continents, beautiful sights, and education about South Africa. The mission

work team felt a sense of being in the right place at the right time to do the work so badly needed on the Skuinkloof school. It was apparent the school needed serious maintenance and general upkeep just to make it livable for the students and teachers. The children were cute and helpful. The teachers and principal were appreciative of our efforts. Our accommodations on FUMCR member Jim Meyer’s ranch were wonderful (especially since most of us were used more spartan living conditions on work trips!).

Getting the right supplies for the many jobs we were doing was sometimes difficult because the school is located in such a rural area. It took at least two to three hours to get to the closest hardware store to purchase needed materials. By the end of the week we were pleased to have accomplished almost all what we set out to do.

Writing and photography by Joy anderson

Mission accomplished:v Completed bathroom including paint, shower tile, soap dishes, toilet paper

holders, French drains for the sinks, six missing panes of glas.v Installed lighting in bathroomsv Sanded and varnished forty-two student desks and classroom tablesv Painted all desk and table framesv Patched classroom walls and sandedv Gave three classrooms two coats of paintv Moved cooking apparatus from classroom to another structure on the

school groundsv Sealed and painted the roof; added corrugated metal to roof ridgev Tore down classroom ceiling that was in disrepairv Installed new sheetrock for classroom ceiling

Projects to be completed:q Paint exterior of the schoolq Build a covered lunch dining area for students and teachersq Build additional classroomq Build shelves in new classrooms

Out of Africa


Visit our Facebook page to read the recaps from our Comrades Marathon runners Daniel Burdette, Mike Lightfoot and Elizabeth Wilson!


The Strategic Vision Implementation Team and FUMCR staff continue to move forward. Importantly, we are finding that

through the tactical implementation of the various initiatives, there is an intentional, gradual shift toward a church home filled with congregants committed to deepening their discipleship journey. Through emphasizing regular worship attendance, small group participation and serving the church, fellow FUMCR members/visitors, community and world, congregants will grow in their faith and see the inter-connectedness of all aspects of the faith journey.

Following are milestones that we have achieved in the various specific vision initiatives.

WelcomeEnsuring that FUMCR is intentionally inclusive and more closely mirrors our evolving parish. Over the last several years, the number of young adults (23-40 years old) in Richardson has grown. A young adult task force has been researching and benchmarking our current ministries to other churches our size. The task force looks forward to sharing its findings this fall and is excited to move toward an implementation phase of its work. Several task force members will also work with the leadership development team. In addition to the young adult task force, we began using a new analytical tool acquired through the UM Conference. This tool enables us to better understand the demographics of our community and to evaluate our effectiveness in the quest to more closely mirror our parish.

GrowIntentional Faith Development model. The FUMCR staff continues to make significant progress toward the implementation of the Intentional Faith Development model. The team expects to roll out a portion of the tool to focus groups late summer or early fall. A key piece to the discipleship model is also the emphasis on small groups. The team has created a strategy and curriculum for newly-formed small groups, leader training materials, and is in the process of identifying potential

leaders of the small groups. Leader training will occur this fall. Small groups will begin in the first quarter of 2013.

Leadership Development. The team has been working on assessing and better defining FUMCR’s needs with respect to fostering and encouraging future leadership. The initial focus has been on researching existing programs at other churches and non-church organizations. From this research, we learned the North Texas Conference has created a Center for Leadership Development and is formulating a basic program for churches throughout the Conference. We continue to explore this initiative while we focus on our needs. We hope to be in a position to determine whether their platform (possibly with some adjustments for FUMCR or larger churches in general) will mesh with our needs. It is possible FUMCR could serve as a focus group as early as this fall. As we identify current and future leaders for FUMCR, an over-arching goal of the team is to equip them through relevant training, relationship-building and leadership experience, further enhancing their roles both inside and outside our walls as disciples of Christ.

ServeAlign FUMCR with community leaders to push United Methodist agenda. An exciting success this spring has been the creation of the Richardson Interfaith Alliance. Participants are invited by the mayor and gather to discuss issues impacting our faith community. There are sixty identifiable worship groups in Richardson. About twelve different faith groups were represented at the first Interfaith Alliance meeting. (Twenty-one groups were at the second meeting.) Debra Hobbs-Mason will lead this group that will meet monthly and hopes to continue to grow.

Active Focus on Volunteerism. As a part of the small group DNA, mission/volunteerism will be an integral component. All groups will be asked to actively participate in outreach. Parameters, guidelines, and suggestions for this are being defined.

Strategic Vision

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Writing by holly leeJuly, 2012



T he theme for this year’s North Texas Annual Conference was “I will pour out my Spirit on all flesh,” taken from Acts 2:17-21 where

it describes how the early church was to carry out their mission. It was soon made clear that the job of carrying this message to the world is the responsibility of all those who have received grace through Christ, not just the job of clergy alone. The point was that the mission of growing and inviting and involving must be organized and driven by the laity at the local level if it is to be successful. We heard repeatedly how it is responsibility of the laity, the body of the church, to do the work of growing our church. We are to energize ourselves to do those things necessary to engage people to action. The job of our clergy is to provide the vision and direction necessary for that work. I feel blessed to belong to FUMCR where we are already doing many of the things prescribed. We as a church should be very proud to serve as an example to other churches who are struggling.

A strong connection was made between the active engagement of the laity and the vibrancy and growth of the church. Many churches are struggling with declining congregations. Some are even faced with closing their doors. The more people we invite and get engaged in the activities of the church, the more vibrant we become. To provide a church home where everyone feels at home, where no-one feels guilt or blame, and where grace and peace are available to everyone, are all things that are critically important to making newcomers feel like church is their spiritual home. The church environment should make people feel comfortable enough to engage, first in a faith journey, and ultimately become engaged in activities that reach out to others.

Conference began June 3 with a laity only meeting and dinner with the lay persons from around the North Texas Conference. With no clergy present, the evening included a small groups workshop where we discussed things we are doing in our local churches to get more people engaged and active in the congregation. The point made was that the church needs this involvement to thrive, and if our laity are not actively involved in that work, the church will decline. I am extremely proud to say our lay team from FUMCR was able to provide a very long list of things we do to invite, engage and involve. This exercise was also very telling because in our small groups we learned that some other churches simply couldn’t list anything that they

are doing to invite, engage and involve. That’s sad, and it points to how much FUMCR can be a mentor to other churches. Our sister churches, those that are struggling, are watching us and they want to know how we do it. Just as we are providing witness to people, we are also providing witness to other churches. Our mission at FUMCR is even more critical. As we learned at LCI earlier this year, this conference highlighted yet again how our church is, and can be, a strong example to other churches. Our comments and ideas were collected and will be shared with those struggling churches to offer encouragement.

One of the most important legislative items passed during the conference was establishment of a set of policies to ensure the safety and protection of the many children, youth and other vulnerable persons who grace our campus. You will hear more about this new program, called the MinistrySafe Safety System. It is being rolled out to all the churches in our conference. Its intent is to ensure the absolute safety of those who are least able to defend themselves while they are on the church campus. This program raises the bar yet again making our church a secure and inviting place for children and youth. And as we all know, our children and youth missions are cornerstones of our church.

Finally, I am proud to report, we have the most competent and caring clergy in Methodism. I am extremely proud of them and their wisdom and leadership in every aspect of FUMCR’s life. When annual appointments were announced, I was pleased to learn that our clergy are staying put. We can all agree that is a very good thing for our church!

FUMCR is in a very strong position going forward. We have bright and capable clergy; a vibrant and energetic laity; we are financially sound; and we have a strong passion for mission, outreach and caring. Annual conference confirmed this position but it also highlighted 1) that we still have a lot of work to do and 2) that our church is on display for others to see. That’s a big responsibility for us. I trust you will accept that responsibility and I look forward to working alongside you as we continue to grow and serve. Time to get out of the pews and get to work!

Grace and Peace

Jim Montgomery

Writing by Jim montgomery



Joyful Questors was formed in 1979 when two smaller classes, Joyful Noise and Questors, merged together. For many years, the former church on Beltline Road didn’t

have a room for us to meet, so class was held in the house across the street that the church owned. When we moved to the new campus, we were thrilled to have a large classroom, but soon faced a good problem of being overcrowded. A wall was torn down between two rooms to make one large one. Now we have a spacious room that meets the needs of the forty to seventy Joyful Questors in attendance each week.

Joyful Questors are empty nesters, mostly in their 60s, with a few younger or older, and are predominantly couples. Many manage the affairs of elderly parents, while at the same time spend time spoiling grandchildren.

Group programs are chosen by several chairmen who lead the class discussion themselves or find outside speakers. Each week covers a different topic and widely varies from Bible study, community projects, health issues, music, missions, lessons by video to Bible games. Group members are not shy in expressing opinions on these many subjects.

Joyful Questors is a mission-oriented group, using member’s services, gifts and talents to support church projects. With monetary collections, we are fortunate to make generous donations to ten missions voted on each year. We literally make each penny count by also collecting small change that is used to support a worthy cause. In the past, we have bought socks for the homeless, shaving cream for Body and Soul, as well as filled forty tote bags with toiletries for the homeless. This year, we are buying toiletries and small household items with the change money for Network’s Senior’s Net. The items will be used to fill Thanksgiving and Christmas baskets for low-income seniors trying to remain independent and live in their own homes.

Many Joyful Questors volunteer several hours each year by serving on church council, doing mission work, working with Prison Ministry, Habitat, charitable fund raising, library and summer reading programs, garden ministry, UMW, Winterfest and serving dinner five times a year at Body and Soul. On a typical Sunday, you will see us ushering, working the welcome desk, taking new member photographs, directing traffic, singing with the choir or moving altar furniture.

For the past several years, Joyful Questors has provided a Thanksgiving feast for single parents and their families at the November Single Parent Action Network (SPAN) meeting. We also donate household staples, such as paper towels, tissues and dish soap, monthly to SPAN. We’ve had a busy but rewarding time this year serving on multiple committees leading up to the LCI Conference hosted by FUMCR. We wrapped up our commitment when we acted as wait staff and served a Mexican dinner to the 500 attendees.

Social activities are an important part of the Joyful Questors. Mini-socials happen quarterly so members can get to know each other in smaller settings. In addition to a Rough Riders outing, we have Bunco parties twice a year. The ladies meet monthly for game night and celebrate Christmas with lunch at a tearoom. We are Methodists—so food must play a part. We hold a new member brunch every quarter to officially welcome the newest Joyful Questors. The year ends with a festive, catered Christmas dinner held at various venues. New officers are announced, missions are voted on and we finish with a lively White Elephant gift exchange.

If you are looking for a Sunday School group, visit Joyful Questors in Room 203 at 9:45 am. For more information, contact Wanda Mitchell at [email protected].

Writing by Wanda mitChell photography by JUdy nordseth and JoyFUl QUestors

Joyful QuestorsSunday School Group Focus



from the In memory of Tim Wende from Richard and Kay Fleming; Gene and Suzy Hailstone; Steve Wende; Don and Margie Franks; Dorothy Foxworth; David and Donna Kelley; Donald and Lou Cook; Mary Lou and Brian Filibeck; Bernice Walston; Weldon and Mary Burklund; Ann Walker; Barbara Burklund; Sid and Bonnie Borrello; Virginia Babb; Earnest and Sylvia Deadwyler; Ben and Betty Sloan. In memory of Michael Moran from Stacey and Melinda Lawrence; Wednesday night yoga class; Chris and Jeanie Curto; In memory of Barry Davenport from Alice Porter; In memory of Robert Dooley from Jim and Kay Hibbetts; In honor of Clayton Oliphint from Gladys Wende; In honor of Jimmie Mobley from Gladys Wende;In memory of Pam Fitzgearld’s mother from Don and Margie Franks; In memory of Bob Holton from Sylvia Kerins; Apostles Sunday school class; Jim and Carlene Thompson; Betty Bartula; Bob and Geri Andrew; Richard and Kay Fleming; Bonnie Edwards; Jeanne Brewer; Don and Margie Franks; In memory of Gail Huddleston from Ann Sparkman Green; In memory of Walter Norris from Bill and Barbara Loessberg; Lena Pinckney; In memory of Cecil Wilder from Nona Wilder; In honor of Elizabeth Wilson, Daniel Burdette and Mike Lightfoot from Earnest and Sylvia Deadwyler; Donation to HEROES camp in memory of “Nonnie” by Helen Bell; In honor of HEROES camp by Don and Margie Franks; Jeanne Brewer; In memory of Ann Diveley from Richard and Kay Fleming; In memory of Renata Younts’ mother by Bonnie Edwards. Memorials/Honorariums – weeks 5/21 – 7/2

Rejoice

LAUGH

Business Office

All 7-12th graders invited(no auditions necessary!)

Youth ChoirKickoff Party

Youth ChoirKickoff Party

Join us for singing, burgers, ice cream, games, and prizes

Bartula Family Life Center Questions? Contact Caitlin

[email protected]

Pancake FlipSaturday, September 29

7 am - 1 pm

Bartula Family Life Center

Path�nder Class

$4 adults/$2 children in advance($5/3 at the door)

Tickets on sale Shawver Welcome Center Sundays in September

Summer is coming to an end and the school year is quickly approaching! It is a great time to announce the congregation has generously contributed over $9,500 toward Backpacks for Network and we are only $500 short of the goal to provide 1,000 backpacks to Richardson school children! (as of 7/18/12) Thank you to everyone who gave and to the United Methodist Women for all their hard work on this initiative!

June 2012 YTD:Actual YTD Income $2,624,647Budgeted YTD Income 2,450,806Overage 173,841

Currently, we are ahead in income for the year and are right on target in expenses. Thanks to all of you who have been thoughtful in keeping up your giving or even paying ahead during the summer months when we are typically short. We greatly appreciate it! As always, please contact me should you have any questions or concerns.

Blessings,

Dianne Weideman, Director of [email protected]

May 20

Adam and Lauren EverettSon: Pierson

June 3

Dan and Joyce Pemberton

Larry and Gay Thomasson

Chad and Rhea BellDaughter: Scarlett

June 17

Ann and Tom WilburnSon: Liam


Welcome to Our Newest Members!

Friday, September 8, 6 pmBartula Family Life Center


Rejoice

LAUGH

This informal and casual event will feature entertainment by several talented FUMCR musicians, children, and youth. Kimber Mowrey and Fred Trevino will produce and direct the show including a wide variety of Broadway musical numbers.Reservations in the church office during the week and in the Shawver Welcome Center on Sundays. Tables of ten available for classes and groups. Make your reservations early for best seating!

Create Your Own Ice Cream Sundae with all the toppings!Open to All Ages $10 per person

Sponsored by the Senior Adult Ministry.

503 N. Central Expressway P.O. Box 830877

Richardson, TX 75083-0877972.235.8385 fumcr.com

ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED

PERIODICALS

October 13Tim Hawkins A Night of Comedy

October 14Josh WIlson featured in Sunday Worship 8:45, 9:45 11 am & access 5 pm

October 28Celebration of Children during Worship

fumcr.com

Documents

First Connections Aug-Sep 2012