MOUNTAIN ECHOES

March 2019 99TH

Edition

The coming of the crocus; the coming of spring; the coming of Easter. Hallelujah! (picture by ClipArt)

Keezletown United Methodist Church

Rev. T. Joel Robinette, Pastor 1456 Indian Trail Road Church phone: 540-269-8531 Keezletown VA 22832 Pastor’s Cell: 540-908-9482 Pastor’s email: joel_robinette @hotmail.com Pastor’s office hours: Monday & Wednesday 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Keezletown UMC website: www.keezletownumc.com <>< <>< <><

Hosea 6:3 “Let us acknowledge the LORD; let us press on to

acknowledge him. As surely as the sun rises, he will appear; he will

come to us like the winter rains, like the spring rains that water the

earth.”

APRIL BIRTHDAYS Apr 1 Kevin Summers Apr 15 Ryan Heishman Apr 3 Christine Cole Apr 16 Kristen Roach Apr 5 Jacob Stanley Apr 18 Matthew Holliday Apr 6 Gary Knupp Apr 19 Jan Shafer Apr 6 Marshall Liskey Apr 19 Cathy Atwell Apr 7 Sharon Martin Apr 20 Mary Jane Propst Apr 7 Karen Mooney Apr 22 Charles Harris Apr 7 Cory Guilliams Apr 23 Jamie Werner Apr 8 Justen Cox Apr 23 Sara Ann Cole Apr 8 Marcus Hall Apr 23 Lily Sacra Apr 9 Gracelynn Knight Apr 23 Juanita Sheffer Apr 10 Hunter Pellegrin Apr 24 Randy Sites Apr 10 Jaden Hall Apr 25 John Foley Apr 14 Benjamin Wamsley Apr 27 Bob Threewitts APRIL ANNIVERSARIES Apr 10, 2004 David & Kathryn Propst Miller 15years Apr 15, 1994 Scott & Jenny Dillard 25 years Apr 23, 1964 Kennis & Carolyn Armentrout 55 years Apr 23, 2016 John & Jennifer Young 3 years Apr 26, 1996 Randy & Jan Sites 23 years -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

CELEBRATING 40 YEARS OR MORE: CONGRATULATIONS to church family couples

that have been married 40 or more years in April:

Kennis & Carolyn Armentrout on April 23rd for 55 years

Best wishes from your KUMC family. May you have many more. -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

HAPPY BIRTHDAYS

Happy 14 Reese Happy 14 Joe Jr Happy 7 Austyn & Andrea Happy “?” Barbara Happy “?” Leslie ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ MARK YOUR APRIL CALENDARS FOR EASTER WEEK: 11-12 Relay Team makes candy eggs at 6:00 p.m.

18 Maundy Thursday services at St Jacob’s Lutheran Church at 7:00 p.m. 19 Good Friday services at Trinity Lutheran Church at 7:00 p.m. 21 SUNRISE SERVICE at 7:00 a.m. followed w/breakfast by KUMC Relay Team Sunday School 9:45 a.m. Worship 11:00 a.m.; EASTER SERVICE

================================================================== PLEASE NOTE: The Parsonage phone (269-8405) has been disconnected due to non-use. If you need to speak with Pastor Joel, please call his cell phone 540-908-9482 or the church phone 540-269-8531. Thank you. ==================================================================

DIAPER DRIVE: Mission Central is in need of diapers of

ALL sizes. Our collection basket is in the narthex. Every

diaper will be appreciated. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

__ ***FEBRUARY EVENTS THAT HAPPENED***_____________ Feb 17th: United Methodist Men met for their monthly breakfast/meeting, with 13 men present. Scott and Dale Dodrill prepared a wonderful breakfast, followed by a time of fellowship devotions given by Neil Sacra. The devotion topic was "God is there through the Ups and Downs of Life". Minutes were presented by Dale Dodrill; treasurer’s report was given by Scott Dodrill. Discussed during the meeting were a sign up for the Lenten Meal served by the UMM on Wednesday, Mar 13th; a sign up for the Pancake Supper that will be served on Saturday, Mar 16th; support of "Rise Against Hunger " with a $500 donation from proceeds from the Pancake Supper; signing up for weekly mowing at the church at our April meeting; and voted to have Catfish/Tenderloin Dinner in May with date TBD. The UMM will not be working at the RAM health clinic held at the fairground the first weekend in March, but will be working with their Ruritan Clubs at that function. We went over a survey given at last meeting on outreach/projects we did in past and what we wanted to continue or discontinue. Voted to discontinue serving at District Golf Tournament and Route 11 Yard Crawl. Pastor Joel asked for men willing to write to incarcerated men and that he had the information and material to do that. We voted to have the next Men's Breakfast/Meeting on the second Sunday of April, since the third Sunday is Easter Sunday. Men's Group is asking members of the congregation and community for potential projects or needs by church and community individuals and families that we may potentially assist. We discussed seeing if Mill Creek Cross Keys Ruritan Club would move their Nov meeting date from the first Thursday to the first Saturday. We are hoping to serve the meal but would like the date moved. Neil Sacra will check into that and report back. We voted to replace the projector screen in Social Hall that is not working and cannot be fixed. Neil Sacra will complete this project. There will be no March meeting, therefore, our next meeting will be April 14th. We ask that all continue to pray for individuals of need, Pastor Joel in his ministry, for our community, state, country, and world, and the issues they face. Neil S

Feb 18th: “The New Testament You Never Knew” study: In our second lesson, we were re-introduced to the New Testament, being asked “How did you first learn about the New Testament?” We then reviewed, through video, the Gospels and Acts, the Letters of Paul, the General Letters, and Revelation, and learned that the first generation disciples were dying and wanted to write down their recollections and witness for future believers.

Feb 19th Tuesday Morning study: After studying the parables of the Lost Coin, the Lost

Sheep, and the Lost Son, our second week’s study of “Short Stories by Jesus” by Amy-Jill

Levine in Luke 10, asked us to discuss who the Good Samaritan was, what he did, why he

did it, and do we have or how can we be good Samaritans in today’s world. Feb 21st: Worship Preparation Meeting: Pastor Joel met with Chris Cole, Tanya Eppard, and Jenny Dillard to prepare the worship services for March. All are welcome to participate. Feb 24th-26th: Evening Prayer for General Conference began at 6:30 p.m. with a Call to Prayer, and a hymn. Prayers for the Church followed, along with a Scripture reading, and time for silence and reflection. A Prayer of the People was followed by the Lord’s Prayer and a Blessing Benediction.

Feb 24th Worship: Mac Coffman assisted Pastor Joel today, and gave the welcome and announcements, as well as a Psalms 37 Call to Worship. Diana played “I’ll Go Where You Want Me To Go” as the prelude and the choir opened with “Cry of My Heart”. Faye Crowe came to offer the Peace Prayer. She conceded that she did not always remember to do it every night, but made up for it the

next morning, and that even though we may not see anything happening, we can all still pray. The church family then sang “Fairest Lord Jesus”, followed by the choir singing the encouraging, “More Like You”. Diana led the children’s time and told them about how God likes for us to laugh, using a “Georgie and the Pickle” story. Randy Clatterbuck read the Gospel lesson from Luke 6, after which Pastor Joel spoke on “Love Like Jesus”, lessons on loving your enemies, doing to others as you would have them do to you, being merciful as God is merciful, how to respond to those who hurt you, and to those who do you good, loving in the same way God loves us. The singing of “O Master, Let Me Walk with Thee” preceded the Time of Prayer Together. “I Need Jesus” was played during the collection of offerings and prayer partners, and followed by the closing hymn, “Blest Be the Tie That Binds”. Pastor Joel dismissed us to a windy, but sunny afternoon. Feb 25th: “The New Testament You Never Knew” study: Our third lesson, “The World of Jesus and

the Apostles” focused on the Jewish world, the Greek world, and the Roman world, their cultural,

religious, and political environments, and how it all prepared for the coming of the Messiah. Feb 26th: Tuesday Morning study: Our third session of “Short Stories by Jesus” gave us one of the shortest, but very intriguing and thought-provoking parables of the Search for a Pearl of Great Wealth from Matthew 13. It was very interesting to see the many viewpoints and differences of opinions as to who the merchant was, what the pearl was, why it was so valuable, and if there is a pearl we are searching for, and would give up all we had to have it.

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MARCH FUN PICTURES

After bath sweetness Jacob loves horses Celebrating at Wintergreen Our talented Becca ====================================================================================

CONFERENCE KITS DRIVE FOR MARCH, APRIL, AND MAY: The UMW would like to encourage the church family to think about giving to conference kits. The following items are needed; lists are also in the narthex. Any ?’s, please see Sherry Summers. MARCH: HEALTH KIT: (1) Hand towel, (1) washcloth, (1) bar of soap, (1) toothbrush, (1) comb, without handles, (1) fingernail or toenail clippers, (10) bandaids, (1) 1 gallon bag. Best deals are at Roses or Dollar Tree. APRIL: SCHOOL KIT: 125 pack loose leaf paper, (1) single subject spiral notebook, (1) ruler, (1) pair blunt nose scissors, (6) #2 pencils, (1) pencil sharpener, min1”, (1) eraser 2” length, 24 pack crayons, 2-2.5 gallon bag. Best deals are Roses, Dollar Tree, and Walmart. MAY: CLEANING BUCKETS: 5 gallon bucket & lid, (24) 33-45 gal trash bags, (36-50) clothespins, kitchen gloves, 50-100’ clothesline cord, scrub brush, 5 scrub pads, (18) reusable wipes, (3) solid air fresheners, 16-34 oz dish detergent, 16-40 oz household cleaner, 32-64 oz laundry detergent, 6-14 oz insect repellent, leather palm gloves, (5) N95 Masks. Best deals are at Roses, Dollar Tree, Family Dollar, Dollar General, Harbor Freight, and Home Depot. =================================================================================

SPRING JOKES: What's a baby chick's favorite plant? EGG-plants!

What do you call it when it rains chickens and ducks? FOUL weather!

What do you get when you plant kisses? Tu-lips!

What is a spring chick after it is five months old? Six months old.

========================================================== SERVING OTHERS __________________ ____ RELAY FOR LIFE: Joe Liskey is making Metal yard ornaments shaped like flowers, approximately 3 feet tall and the flower itself spins. You may have it painted any color you wish. He is asking $50.00 per flower, with $30.00 going to the KUMC Relay for Life Team. Please contact Joe at 1oliver99@msn.com if you wish to purchase one. BACKPACKS: we are packing backpacks for the children at Cub Run Elementary School and Montevideo Middle School. This program works because of your generosity, caring, and prayers, and allow children to not go hungry on weekends and at special holidays. God bless you for all you do. Please contact me at 269-6409 if you have questions. Thanks. Jenny Gathering Non-Perishable Food items: for the Massanutten Food Pantry in the box in the narthex. Thank you for your contributions.

Clothing for Mission Central: collected in basket in narthex.

Salvation Army Meal: The Adult Sunday school class serves patrons a meal on the 4th Sat of

each month. Please see the Fords if you wish to help.

KUMC Facebook Page: Check out, and “like” the Keezletown United Methodist Church Facebook page. Take pictures and tag the church in the posts; any items/events you think should be included, please let Beth Morris know. Please remember this is a "Public" page so the world can see everything posted. If you see an event, feel free to invite friends, or share.

Good Folks to Bless: There is a list of some good folks in Jackie’s room, some church members, some friends of the church, connected to our church that it would be good to bless with a visit, card, telephone call, or to help out. Please indicate if you have reached out to them so others can know who else might need a blessing. Love Your Neighbor Evangelism Trial: Take time each week to share the love of God with no strings

attached with your neighbors. Grab a form as you leave each week and write down who you plan to share

God’s love with and how it went. You may also share with someone else at KUMC how things went for

prayer and support. Whether you use a form or not, intentionally share God’s love with your neighbor this

week; and give support and prayer to other people trying to figure out how to love their neighbor.

Bookbags of Hope: The Ryman and Hall family are continuing to collect items for the homeless. If you

have used book bags we are willing to take them, along with toiletries, snacks and Bibles (list on narthex

table). Also please pray for our ministry. We will be trying to raise some money. God bless. See Becky

Ryman or any of the Hall boys if you have questions. US Disaster Response: The United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR) will be working with communities

affected by Hurricane Florence, Hurricane Michael, and the California Wildfires. 100% of your gift to UMCOR

goes toward the designated cause. If you would like to give please designate gifts to “UMCOR US Disaster

Response #901670” and checks can still be made out to KUMC.

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_ __ ***MARCH EVENTS THAT HAPPENED***_____________ Mar 2nd: UMW Spiritual Life Retreat was held at McGaheysville UMC from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Laura Douglass presented a program “Reflecting on Women & Spirit Spanning Time & Space: A Lens on Early Sisterhood of Grace”, which included her experiences in Scotland and Ireland with the Celtic church, illustrated with pictures and slides. A lunch of sandwiches, salad, cake, cookies, and drinks was provided by the McGaheysville UMW in the beautifully decorated church social hall. With approximately 100 in attendance, Chris, Ann, Kelly, Donna, and Carolyn represented our UMW. Mar 3rd: Worship: Transfiguration Sunday: Fifty two brave souls fought the rain, sleet, and

snow to attend church today. Ken Thomas assisted Pastor Joel and welcomed all who came.

Carol played “How Lovely Are Thy Dwellings” as the prelude. A “Transfiguration” prayer

opened the service and the church family sang “Through It All”. Ken read the Gospel lesson

from Luke 9, and Pastor Joel spoke on “God’s Call to Listen”, reviewing

the story of the transfiguration of Jesus when three disciples

saw Jesus’ appearance change and Moses and Elijah speaking with Jesus.

God told them to listen to Jesus, who always took the time to listen to

those in need. After the message, those in attendance were asked to

pair off with someone near them, listen to their needs, and pray with

them. We were reminded to listen to those in need. “O Wondrous Sight! O Vision Fair” was the

next hymn, followed by Ken giving the Prayer for Peace over the Peace Candle. The invitation

to Communion was followed by the collection of Tithes, offerings, and prayer requests, as Carol

played “I Will Extol Thee”. Ken assisted Pastor Joel in serving the Great Thanksgiving, and the

service closed with “Through It All” and Pastor Joel’s benediction. Mar 3rd: The United Methodist Women have set up a book table in the back of the sanctuary with UMW reading books and a few privately owned religious books for the church family to borrow, read, bring back, and exchange. A few went home on Sunday! Check them out each Sunday and find some time to sit, relax, and read.

Mar 4th: UMW Serves Ruritans: Ten ladies (Susan, Chris, Geraldine, Carolyn, Becky, Kelly, Donna, Ann, Kathy, and Diana) served 39 Ruritans and their guests for Teacher Appreciation Night. They enjoyed barbecue sandwiches, green beans, hash brown casserole, chocolate cake or brownies with ice cream, and drinks. Thank you to all who donated and helped. Mar 4th: “The New Testament You Never Knew” study: Session four focused on the “Life and Death of Jesus”, His ministry, His message, His baptism, the wilderness temptation, His cleansing the Temple, Passion Week, the Crucifixion, and how we face and can overcome temptation.

Mar 6th: ASH WEDNESDAY SERVICE: Lent began at 6:30 p.m., with Pastor Joel greeting the 60+ attendees and giving the blessing, before we enjoyed chili, cornbread, brownies, fruit, and drinks, prepared and served by the UMW. The service began with a second greeting, an Old Testament lesson from Joel 2, and Pastor Joel speaking about the fragility of man and turning to God for new life. An invitation to Observe Lent was read, and a thanksgiving given over last year’s palm branch ashes. All were invited forward to receive a cross of ashes on their foreheads, with these words, “Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return. Repent, and believe in the Gospel.” We then sang “Sunday’s Palms are Wednesdays Ashes” accompanied by Carol Sacra. A pardon was read, the peace was passed, we repeated the Lord’s Prayer, and Pastor Joel gave the benediction blessing.

Mar 7th: United Methodist Women: 15 ladies and Pastor Joel met at 6:30 p.m. for their annual Call to Prayer and Self Denial meeting and meal. Chris, Carolyn, Donna, Geraldine, and Kelly helped prepare the meal of mock-lasagna, green beans, mixed vegetables, fruit salad, cake, and drinks. Chris presented the program which told how United Methodist Women are helping children thrive around the world. Profits from the successful soup/bake sale will be given to KUMC Relay team; mission of the month was the Boys & Girls Club. Sherry reported that we will serve the Mt Crawford Ruritan club in May with BBQ, hash brown casserole, green beans, and brownies w/ice cream. Mission Central is in need of boys shorts; we will continue our diaper drive through March. The reading display has been set up and a few books have already been taken. The RAM clinic on Mar 2nd-3rd was a success and they were grateful for our snack donation. Five ladies attended the Spiritual Life Retreat on Mar 2nd and had an enjoyable day (see previous article). Mar 24th is UMW Sunday and Liz McCammon will speak. In March we will collect for health kits, in April for school kits, and in May for cleaning buckets. Upcoming events include the District Evening Together at Cedar Grove UMC on Apr 4th at 7:00 p.m., which will be considered our monthly meeting; carpools leave at 6:30 p.m. A UMW Spiritual Life Retreat will be at Eagle Eyrie in Lynchburg on May 3-5, with Rev Dawn-Marie Singleton as guest speaker; registration forms are available.

Cards were signed for Judy Coffman, Ellen Layman, Dorothy Deeds, and Jenn Robinette. Diana closed with prayer. Reminder: Next meeting Apr 4th at Cedar Grove UMC. Mar 9th: International Women’s Day was celebrated in Harrisonburg with a march and many speeches, including one on women and education by Robin Hawks, wife of former KUMC Pastor, Rev Don Hawks.

Mar 10th Worship: 1st Sunday in Lent: Beth Morris, assisting Pastor Joel today, gave

the welcome greeting and led us in the Call to Worship, followed by the prelude

“Whispering Hope” by Diana. Jeanine and Alli Underwood led the prayer for the Peace

Candle. “O Worship the King” was joyfully sung by the church family, followed by the

Choral anthem, and the Children’s Time, in which Pastor Joel talked about Lent and how

instead of giving of something, we all should find something to do to help others. Corey

Gulliams read the Old Testament Lesson from Deuteronomy 25 and Pastor Joel spoke on

“Moses said, ‘Remember Who You Are’”. Moses was reminding the people of Israel to

remember who they were, what God had done, and how they were to live when they came to

worship, remembering salvation, bringing offerings, and sharing their gifts with their own

people and strangers. We were asked to reflect on “I Was…”, “Then I cried out to Jesus…”,

and “So now I will”, and to give a short witness on God’s grace to us. “Holy, Holy, Holy,

Lord God Almighty” followed the message. Many folks then spoke touching words about

how God has and is still working in their lives in response to the message. The Morning

Prayer was followed by the gathering of two offerings, one regular, one for Rise Against

Hunger, as Diana played “Abba, Abba Father”. We closed with “For the Fruits of This

Creation” and Pastor Joel gave the benediction for us to depart to a beautiful sunshiny day. Mar 10th: Keezletown Light Commission Annual meeting was held at 7:00 p.m. in the church social hall with 9 members present. Scott Dillard presided; Darryl Eppard read last year’s minutes; and Diana Davis gave the Treasurer’s report. We are still making money on the

invested money to cover the cost of street lights and did not plan any fundraisers for the upcoming year. All officers and directors agreed to remain for 2019, and the next meeting date was set for March 8, 2020 at 7:00 p.m. All folks living in the Keezletown area are a part of this organization and are welcome to ask about what we are, what we do, and to attend the meeting.

Mar 11th: “The New Testament You Never Knew” Bible Study session five focused on “The Ministry of

the Apostle Paul”, his impact, his unique attributes, the religions and cultures of the world in which he traveled, how he redefined the identity of Israel’s God, the imperial cult and earthly authorities, and how justification unifies the church. Mar 12th Tuesday Morning study: Our fourth session of “Short Stories by Jesus” by Amy-Jill Levine centered on the parables of the mustard seed as found in Matthew, Mark, and Luke. This parable tells us of the smallest seed, that when sown, can grow into the largest of bushes that provides a nesting place for birds, and should not be confused with the parable of the mustard seed referring to the size of faith required to move a mountain. However, both tell us that we are the sowers of God’s love seed. Sow your seed and watch what God can do.

Mar 13th Lent Service and Supper: WOW! The second Lent service began at 6:30 p.m. and saw Pastor Joel welcoming almost 100 folks from St Jacob’s, Trinity, and Muhlenberg Lutheran churches, and KUMC, who had come to be nourished by food and the word. And neither disappointed. The United Methodist Men had prepared spaghetti with two different sauces, salad, garlic bread, drinks, and desserts (part of which little Nora Grace helped make), that were delicious. Pastor Joel, on his guitar, presented two songs by Rich Mullins, before Rev Bill Nabors, Pastor of St Jacobs and Trinity Lutheran churches, introduced our speaker, Bishop Bob Humphrey of the VA Synod ELCA. He began by saying how amazed he was that so many people turned out mid-week to listen to him, and asked if this was normal. He asked the gathering to think about

bridges and where the church needed to build bridges. As folks mentioned ways, he would elaborate, beginning with community service bridges, and on to denominational bridges, fellowship around the table bridges, common denominator bridges (hymns, prayers), family bridges, and cultural bridges through mission work. He stressed that prayer and forgiveness are keys to building bridges, and closed asking the question “Where is God leading us?” Rev Nabors gave the benediction. Mar 13th Administrative Council Meeting was held in the library after the Lent service with 13 members attending and Susan presiding. Pastor Joel opened with prayer; January minutes were dispensed with; and treasurer’s report showed all bills paid. Jan reported the directory is being printed and we should receive soon. We voted to add monies to collections for Rise Against Hunger in order to package 15,000 meals. We discussed the bequest made to the church as to how it should be distributed, or saved, with suggestions given anonymously on cards. We were reminded of the picnic in June. Ann detailed the many activities of the UMW for Jan and Feb; Joe told of the upcoming pancake dinner and Tenderloin/Fried Catfish dinner for the UMM. Randy, reporting for the trustees, stated that we need to move on work on the parsonage and small repairs at the church including eave replacement. Chris reported that John Nday, our missionary and his wife, will be joining us at the Maundy Thursday service at St Jacobs this year. Membership reported the transfer of Jim and Grace Brown to Main Street UMC in Waynesboro, and the death of Patricia Bowman Smith, owner of Sunset Bakery and member of KUMC. Pastor/Parish reported good evaluations for Lynn and Pastor Joel. For the Safety Committee, Steve reported that we are starting to make necessary changes, such as purchasing the AED (Council approved the purchase and added the necessary monies to do so), posting evacuation route maps, limiting access to the church through one door, a greeter at the door during the entire service, a roving security person in the hallway during the service, more exterior lighting, and other smaller details, all to protect the church family, the children, and to be ready for any emergencies, medical or otherwise. Pastor Joel gave a shortened report, asking for monies for Confirmation Camp Apr 2nd-3rd, which was approved; recommended disconnection of the parsonage phone as it is not used, which was approved; reminded all of his last session in Church leadership May 6th-8th; asked for prayers for Bishop Pete Weaver, as he fills in for Bishop Sharma Lewis; and spoke briefly on decisions made at the General Conference 2019. Next meeting will be May 15th at 7:30 p.m. in the library. Mar 16th UMM Pancake Dinner: Yummy homemade sausage gravy, pancakes, scrambled eggs,

sausage patties, syrup, and cinnamon baked apples, with tea and coffee, were served to those who

attended. A free will offering was given to the Rise Against Hunger initiative on Sunday the 17th.

Thank you to all who donated, helped, ate, fellowshipped, and prayed.

Mar 17th Second Sunday in Lent Worship: Pastor Joel welcomed all and opened the service with a responsive reading from Psalm 27. Chris played a lovely Irish melody for the prelude, and the choir opened with “This Is the Day”. Pastor Joel lit and gave a prayer over the Peace Candle, followed by congregational singing of “The God of Abraham Praise”, accompanied by Makenna. “Go Make a Difference”, a lovely hymn that says we can all make a difference in the world, was the choral anthem. Pastor Joel gave the Children’s message. Carol Sacra read the Old Testament lesson from Genesis 15, and Pastor Joel delivered the message, “Abram Believed”. Abram believed God’s promises in the midst of God speaking, signs (stars), and God’s covenant with him, even in the midst of questioning, doubt, and concern as to how it would happen. ”Be Thou My Vision” preceded the time of Morning Prayer. Makenna played “Shine Jesus Shine” as the offering and prayer partners were collected. We closed with “Faith of Our Fathers” and Pastor Joel gave the benediction, as some departed for home and some went to the social hall for lunch and the packaging of meals for Rise Against Hunger.

Mar 17th: RISE AGAINST HUNGER PACKAGING: after worship, 60+ folks gathered in the

social hall, had a bite of lunch, found a place to help, and put on our hair nets. Those with red

nets were reminding us of the children in need. Tables nearest the kitchen were where vitamins/nutrients, dried veggies, soy, and rice were placed in the plastic bags. We had a special leprechaun helper cheering us on.

Runners then took the bags to the weigh tables, where each was weighed and more rice put in or some taken out. The bags then went to the sealing table, were sealed and handed to the box packers. We also had a person ringing the gong every time 1000 meals were packaged.

Robin, seen behind the leprechaun, played the best rock and roll music while we packaged. Lots of folks were singing and bobbing their heads. Groups that helped in addition to KUMC, were Girl Scout Troop #1219, McGaheysville UMC, St. Jacob’s ELCA, and Trinity ELCA. Thank you to everyone who helped in our 8th event with Rise Against Hunger. This year a total of 15,120 meals were packaged and $5,140.80 was given by KUMC, St Jacob’s, Trinity, McGaheysille UMC, Girl Scout troops 919 and 1219, and Glass &

Metals. Over the eight events we have packaged a total of 141,318 meals! These packages will show much needed nourishment and caring. (Thank you to Jan for providing pictures.)

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MORE SPRING JOKES: Why did the farmer bury all his money? To make his soil rich!

Why did the boy start a gardening business? Because he wanted to rake in the cash!

Why did the farmer plant a seed in his pond? He was trying to grow a water-melon.

Can bees fly in the rain? Not without their little yellow jackets!

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___________ PRAYING FOR OTHERS_______________________

MONDAY MORNING PRAYER: at 6:30 a.m., here at the church, church family meet to pray for the

church, each other, the sick, the world, and any needs requested. Come as you are led or pray at home

during this time. For info, please see BJ Smith or contact him at 908-0061 or smithb818@comcast.net.

DO YOU NEED PRAYER?: Intercessory prayer is the greatest form of love we can give to one

another. Give some love (for you or others) on Sundays by placing a name or your name in the

prayer baskets; and pick one out as you leave. Your heart will rejoice.

Keezletown Courageous Warriors for Christ: KCW4X, a small prayer group meets twice a month for breakfast at Mr. J’s. See Pastor Joel if you are interested in joining this group.

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Matt 19:14 Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the

kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.”

Be quiet and listen for His voice, be amazed to hear it, and smile because He loves you. =====================================================================================

WORSHIPPING WITH OTHERS ___________________ “Encounter”: Encounter is a worship time for children 3-5 years old and grades 1-5, which follows the

children’s time on Sunday mornings (except the 1st Sunday of each month or special Sundays). It works with the children by dividing and working with younger and older children separately. Volunteers, up to 1 adult and 1 youth each week, is needed to continue this worship time of songs, prayer, reading the Bible, and other activities. Please talk with Jenn Robinette or Karen Mooney or signup in the narthex. CDs for Homebound: CDs of the weekly worship service for homebound folks who do not have internet

access, are available. If you would like to receive, or can assist in delivering CD’s, please contact Pastor

Joel. If you would like to deliver a CD to a homebound person, you could take one and a worship bulletin

to them. Please indicate on the “Good Folks to Visit” chart (in Jackie’s room) to whom you delivered a CD.

Word on the Website: If you miss a Sunday, want to review, or wish you could share a recent sermon with a friend, the last four Sunday scripture and sermons are now available online on the church website at www.keezletownumc.com for your listening enjoyment. =====================================================================================

_________________STUDYING THE WORD_______________________

YOU ARE INVITED to learn what “FROG” means just like these little

ones; come join a Sunday School Class, available for all ages, with

several classes for young people, and three classes for adults. Monday

evening (7:00 p.m.) and Tuesday morning (10:00 p.m.) Bible studies are

also available. Sunday school begins at 9:45 a.m. after a short devotion

time. We’ve love to have you join us!

Adult Study: “Disciples for Christ”, meeting in the social hall, studying “Who Is the Holy Spirit?”. NEW Tuesday Morning Study: “Simon Peter” begins Apr 23rd at 10:00 a.m.

2019 Bible Reading Challenge: Bishop Sharma Lewis has challenged us to read the Bible every day in 2019, using a “blended” reading program with an Old Testament/New Testament reading each day. Booklets are available in the narthex. =====================================================================================

MORE MARCH FUN PICTURES

At Valley Trampoline Park Dog hug on a bad day TOTS ice cream scooper Into the Woods talent =====================================================================================

_____ ***MARCH EVENTS STILL TO HAPPEN**______________ 18 EMP 6:30 a.m.

“The New Testament You Never Knew” Bible Study 7:00 p.m.

19 Last “Short Stories by Jesus” Tuesday morning Bible study 10:00 a.m.

20 Lent Service and meal at 6:30 p.m.

SPRING BEGINS!

21 Worship Prep meeting at 7:00 p.m. All are invited to participate.

23 Men’s Emmaus Teaming all day

Serve Salvation Army

Bishop Sharma Lewis will hold a Chat ‘n Chew session with clergy and laity for the Harrisonburg

District on Mar 23rd at St Paul’s UMC in Staunton. Time to be announced.

24 Sunday School 9:45 a.m.

Worship 11:00 a.m.; UMW Sunday; 150th Anniversary of UMW; Message by Liz McCammon

25 EMP 6:30 a.m.

“The New Testament You Never Knew” Bible Study 7:00 p.m.

27 Lent Service and meal at 6:30 p.m.

30 Choir Practice at 9:30 a.m.

Cemetery Clean-Up Day at 8: 00 .m., filling holes, gathering limbs, removing old flowers, and

general clean-up. Please come help.

District Lay Servant Training, Woodstock UMC, 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Courses offered are: Basic

(English and Spanish) Living Our Beliefs (UM Heritage) Baptism Cost: $20 (payable on March

30th). Contact Dale Dodrill at cell #770- 402-0752 or email: hdumc.layservants@hotmail.com.

Classes are open to anyone, not just Lay Servants.

UMM at Christ UMC in Shenandoah (211 Central Avenue) invites all men in the Harrisonburg

District to a district-wide FREE breakfast at 10:00 a.m.

31 Sunday School 9:45 a.m.

Worship 11:00 a.m.; Message: “Joshua and First Steps in Promised Land” (Voices of Lent) from

Joshua 5

Fifth Sunday Change collection for Conference Kits

Welcome Lunch at 12:15 p.m.

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MORE SPRING JOKES: What do you call a girl with a frog on her head? Lily!

What season is it when you are on a trampoline? Spring-time!

When do monkeys fall from the sky? During Ape-ril showers!

Why are frogs so happy? They eat whatever bugs them.

====================================================== __________ DISTRICT NEWS ______________________________ Mission Central’s Children’s Clothes Closet: The completion of our building stands as an example of sisters and brothers in Christ united in serving our Lord. Many members of our community have been blessed by their hard work and faithfulness. We are currently waiting for our water to be available, but like everything else it will happen.. We look forward to new volunteers in 2019 as we continue to serve our community and our Lord. Artie Frederick, Chairperson, 208-7669 Mission Central’s Medical Equipment for Caring Loaner Closet: We remain open at Mission Central, on

Mondays, 9 a.m. -12 noon and Thursdays 5-7 p.m. We still need donations of shower chairs or benches, or lift

recliner chairs. If you have received equipment from the loaner closet and no longer need it, please return it so

someone else can use it. We still need volunteers to help during the hours we are open to the public or delivery/set-

up persons. Contact Delores Reid, 540-383-6112.

CAMP OVERLOOK Summer Camp 2019 - The Holy Spirit, the resurrection appearances of Jesus and His

interactions with His followers prior to His ascension, the Book of Acts, witness the gift of the Holy Spirit on Pentecost, celebrate the birth of the church, explore the persecution of the early church, embrace God’s love for all His people, and we’ll recognize that God empowers each one of us to share the Good News in the world today! This summer’s program includes the long-awaited “Romans and Christians” camp-wide game. Thursday’s worship service will include a powerful, interactive communion service and time for a personal, life-changing encounter with the Holy Spirit. If interested, please see Jenny Dillard.

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CHURCH ITEMS YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT______________ LENT SUPPERS & SERVICES: Continue thru April 10th on Wednesdays from 6:30-7:30 p.m. The

theme this year is “Building Bridges” and folks from St Jacob’s and Trinity Lutheran Churches are

joining us. The special offering this year will be for People Helping People.

NEW Welcome Lunch: Visitors and new folks are invited to a welcome lunch on Sunday, Mar 31st after

worship. Come learn more about walking with Jesus Christ as a part of Keezletown UMC. There will be

food, fellowship, and time to learn more about the church. Please let Pastor Joel know if you have any

dietary restrictions.

Confirmation and Baptism for Youth Preparation class will begin April 7th during Sunday school and meet through June 2nd. Learn about being a disciple of Jesus Christ and decide if you would like to be baptized or confirm your baptism. See Pastor Joel for more information.

2019 Directories ON THE WAY: Our Directory committee was returned the final proof, received

and paid the final billing, and are awaiting the shipping which, according to our rep, will be the last week of March. Hopefully we can get them before Easter. Thanks again for all your efforts, patience & especially prayers!! Jan and the Committee

VA CONF UNITED METHODIST WOMEN will hold a Spiritual Life Retreat entitled “A Second Cup of Tea With Jesus” on May 3-5 at Eagle Eyrie Baptist Conference Center in Lynchburg VA. The retreat leader and speaker will be former KUMC minister, Rev Dawn-Marie Singleton, Pastor of Oakton United Methodist Church in Oakton. See Pastor Joel for registration forms if you are interested in attending. LEADERSHIP NEEDED: Please pray for a leader to step forward for “Jesus’ Kids” Coordinator for 2019. NURSERY VOLUNTEERS ARE NEEDED: 2 adults are needed for the nursery each Sunday.

Administrative Council will meet again May 15th at 7:30 p.m. in the library

Cookbooks for Sale: The UMW have cookbooks full of “scrumptious” new and old recipes of the church family for $15.00 per book. Please see one of the UMW ladies to pick up one (or two) in the church social hall before or after church any Sunday. They make great gifts! FLOWERS NEEDED: The 2019 flower calendar is available in the narthex for signing up for flowers for the altar table. Please consider this special time to remember or honor someone you love, or for a celebration in your family. Any questions, please see Cheryl Carr. ====================================================================================

__ ***APRIL EVENTS TO HAPPEN**_________________________

1 April Fool’s Day

EMP 6:30 a.m.

Last “The New Testament You Never Knew” Bible Study 7:00 p.m.

3 KCW4X at Mr J’s at 6:30 a.m.

Lent Service and meal at 6:30 p.m.

4 UMW attend District Evening Together at Cedar Grove UMC for meeting at 7:00 p.m.; carpool at

6:30 p.m.

6 Men’s last Emmaus meeting

7 Sunday School 9:45 a.m.; Confirmation and Baptism for Youth preparation class begins during

Sunday school

Worship 11:00 a.m. with Communion; Message: “Mary’s Actions Louder Than Words” (Voices

of Lent) from John 12

8 EMP 6:30 a.m.

10 Last Lent Service and meal at 6:30 p.m.

11-12 Relay Team makes candy eggs at 6:00 p.m.

12 Newsletter items due

12-13 Confirmation Camp

13 Choir practice 9:30 p.m.

14 United Methodist Men’s Breakfast and Meeting at 8:00 a.m.

Sunday School 9:45 a.m.

Worship 11:00 a.m.; PALM SUNDAY; Message: “Isaiah Sang of the Unconquered

Servant” (Voices of Lent) from Isaiah 50

15 EMP 6:30 a.m.

18 Maundy Thursday services at St Jacob’s Lutheran church at 7:00 p.m. This service recalls the

Last Supper before the passion of Jesus Christ.

19 Good Friday services at Trinity Lutheran Church at 7:00 p.m. This service, led by Rev Bill Nabers,

recalls Jesus’ passion and death on the cross.

21 SUNRISE SERVICE at 7:00 a.m. at the Keezletown Cemetery, followed w/breakfast at the church

by KUMC Relay Team

Sunday School 9:45 a.m.

Worship 11:00 a.m.; EASTER; Message: “Looking for Jesus in Wrong Place” from Luke 24

Blood Pressure Checks after Worship

22 EMP 6:30 a.m.

23 NEW Tuesday Morning Bible Study, “Simon Peter”, at 10:00 a.m.

24 KCW4X at Mr J’s at 6:30 a.m.

Worship Prep meeting 7:00 p.m.

25-28 Walk to Emmaus #105 at Camp Overlook

27 Choir practice 9:30 p.m.

Serve Salvation Army

28 Sunday School 9:45 a.m.

Worship 11:00 a.m.; SERVICE OF HOPE; Message

29 EMP 6:30 a.m.

========================================================= DALE’S CORNER by Dale Dodrill Time is one of four things that we cannot save. Lent is a good time to reflect on how we have and are using it today. Reflect on this song: IN THE TIME THAT YOU GAVE ME by Bradley Walker In the time that you gave me, did I give all I could give Did I love all I could love, did I live all I could live Was my faith in your grace strong enough to save me Did I do all I could do in the time that you gave me` Chorus: Oh and I'll never know 'til its over But I wanna fly on your shoulders Might have strayed from the path I might have gone a little crazy I like to think I did you proud in the time you gave me

In the time that you gave me did I face the devil down Did I make him turn away every time I stood my ground If today is the day you should decide to take me Did I do all I could do in the time that you gave me Chorus: (Three sentences are added to the chorus as the song ends) And as the hourglass empties, no it won't even phase me If I did all I could do in the time that you gave me If I did all I could do in the time that you gave me =====================================================================================

HEALTH Blood Pressure/Checks and Health Questions Parish Nurse, Carol Sacra, reminds everyone that on the 3rd Sunday of every month, she will be administering Blood Pressure Checks in the Sunday school room behind the organ after worship. If you have any concerns, blood pressure, or otherwise, with your health, please feel free to use this time (or anytime the need arises) to talk with her. Chronic Pain Self-Management Program: Sentara RMH, and Valley Program for Aging Services have partnered for a 6-week workshop on Chronic Pain Self-Management Program. Each session is about 2 and a half hours. The first is from Mar 21st to Apr 25th at the Atrium from 1:00 to 3:30 p.m., and the second is at Hess Orthopedics Apr 8th to May 13th, 5:30 to 8:00 p.m. The course is entirely free, and you can call 540-564-3160 to register. ============================================================================

THANK YOU Blessed are the givers…and grateful are the receivers. Thank You so much. Just wanna say Thank You from the bottom of my heart. The donations from so many of you are awesome. They will bless so many. Peace and Love, Becky Ryman for Book bags of Hope

THE CHURCH FAMILY IS PROUD

CONGRATS TO OUR EMPLOYED TEENAGERS: Emily is working at Valley Pike Farm Market in Weyers Cave; Alissa is working at Dairy Queen in Bridgewater; Caleb is working at Hardees in Harrisonburg; and Leigha is working at TOTS Ice Cream Parlor in Penn Laird. Congrats to Kendra and Leigha, who both got their Learner’s Permit. Congratulations to the Spotswood High School Girls Varsity Basketball team for winning the 2019 State Championship. Update on Charlotte Bahle: “Over a month ago I moved across the country to live with my husband in Hawaii! Our beautiful home is two stories with a fenced in backyard and 3 beds and 2 1/2 bath. As many of you know, we had to start from scratch and purchase EVERYTHING down here (except our clothes and etc...lol). The only things

we have left to get is a dining room set and an extra bedroom set for visitors (wink wink 😉). We want to thank everybody who has helped make all this possible. I also recently bought a new car and got a great job! God is so good

and we are so thankful for all the help, love, and support our friends and family have given us❤ “

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Late one night, a preacher was driving on a country road and had a wreck. A farmer stopped and

said, "Sir, are you okay?" The preacher said, "Yes, I had the Lord riding with me." The farmer said,

"Well, you better let him ride with me, because you're gonna kill him."

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OUR PASTOR CHATS February 23-26, 2019 the United Methodist Church had its General Conference 2019 in St.

Louis. I want to thank everyone at Keezletown UMC who has been praying for this conference

and its delegates since last year. One of the amazing things about this conference for me was the

prayer invested in the delegates and issues surrounding this conference. When I watched some of

the footage I was amazed at how all the names of the people were familiar. They weren’t just

people I had never heard of, they were those we have been praying for by name, more than 900

people. There were three main actions that came out of General Conference. A plan passed to

treat pastors who leave the UMC without retiring as terminated vested employees which protects

the accrued benefits of those clergy. A plan passed that increases enforcement of rules with

mandatory penalties related to current prohibitions against clergy officiating at same gender

weddings, UMC congregations hosting same gender weddings, and “self-avowed practicing

homosexuals” serving as clergy. A plan also passed for congregations to be able to exit the UMC

with their property. The latter two of these plans have some sections that may be ruled

unconstitutional. The passing of these latter two plans was also quite close at 53 percent of the

vote versus 46 percent of the vote which reveals the UMC’s leaders are quite divided over these

issues. United Methodist leaders are not only very divided over these issues but have also been

quite divisive in the face of close votes with too much denigration, self-righteousness, and

infighting. In light of General Conference 2019 I would like to remind us of some of our values

as people who follow Jesus Christ.

(1) Just as UMC leaders are divided over issues around human sexuality so are members

of Keezletown UMC who range from conservative to progressive. Our unity is in the grace, love,

and hope we share in Jesus Christ. 1 Corinthians 12 and Ephesians 4 remind us that in the

diversity of the members of the one body of Christ that we are called to build up one another in

the love of God. Let us use our different gifts and abilities not to tear people down but to build

one another up in the body of Christ.

(2) We are people who share in the prevenient grace of God. That is God’s grace that

goes before us, comes before we are ready for it, and prepares people for God’s saving work. In

John 3 we read of God’s love for the whole world and Jesus coming so that all who believe may

be saved. God’s grace is for everyone. So we welcome everyone to come to church, to grow in

faith, to study the scriptures, to pray, to worship, to do justice, to walk with Jesus. As a

congregation it is my prayer that we will welcome and help everyone in their next step of faith in

Jesus Christ.

(3) We are people who share in the sanctifying grace of God. That is God’s grace that is

not done with us at justification but works through our life with Jesus to grow us in faith,

discipleship, and mission so that through the gift of God we are conformed to the image and

ways of Jesus (Romans 8). Sometimes God’s sanctifying grace works slowly and sometimes

quickly. In our very public General Conference behaviors of divisiveness, legislative battling,

divided results, and leaders gearing up for more of the same at General Conference 2020 it seems

clear that growing in the love of Jesus Christ (sanctification) is a value we need to remember.

Grow in us Holy Spirit the fruit of the Spirit which is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness,

generosity, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5). I am most thankful Jesus is

not done with the people called United Methodists. Let us take time to listen to the Spirit and one

another, to grow in Christ’s love and share that with each other, to be patient in our differences

and confident in the hope of Jesus Christ that connects us. Peace be with you, Pastor Joel

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MY PERSONAL NOTE:

“Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles of any kind come your way, consider it an

opportunity for great joy” (James 1:2). “Although it might be difficult to endure problems

with a smile on our face and pure joy in our heart that can come only from faith, doing so

not only makes us stronger believers, but opens the door for true attitude transformation.

Our attitudes are an outward display of what is taking up residence in our hearts and

minds. If our hearts and thoughts are in the right place, our attitudes will be, too. The

only thing we have to lose by intentionally choosing to have a positive attitude is a negative

attitude.” (Words byTracie Miles) And from me, personally, to my Dear Friends, and

brothers and sisters in Christ, what a wonderful relationship that we have that we can

remind each other that there is joy beyond the pain, caring beyond the loneliness, and

hope beyond the doubt. Diana

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Editor’s Note

I am grateful to all who contribute, and encourage each of you to be a part of this,

YOUR newsletter, by submitting items of interest to the Church family. There is an

envelope labeled “Newsletter Items” in the room between the sanctuary and the

hallway. Please feel free to e-mail me, hand them to me, or leave them in the envelope.

The April deadline for submissions is April 12th. I welcome your criticisms, your

submissions, and your suggestions. My home number is 269-8511 or e-mail me at

AntDyna@comcast.net. I hope that you enjoy reading it as much as I enjoy preparing it

for you. God bless you all.

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An Old Irish Blessing: May love and laughter light your days, and warm your heart and home. May good and faithful friends be yours, wherever you may roam. May peace and plenty bless your world with joy that long endures. May all life’s passing seasons bring the best to you and yours!