In This Issuep. 2Church Picnic

p. 4Upcoming Small Groups & Bible Studies

p. 9Church Survey

August 2016

Thoughts From the Senior Pastor“The word of the Lord came to me, saying, ‘Jeremiah, what do you see?’ And I said, ‘I see a branch of an almond tree.’ Then the Lord said to me, ‘You have seen well, for I am watching over my word to perform it.’” Jeremiah 1:11-12

I just stood there watching as Dad worked on the lawn mower. I had no idea what he was doing (I think I was around eight at the time). Then Dad turned to me and said, “Go get me a Crescent wrench.” I turned and ran toward the storage room where the toolbox was kept. The whole way, I kept asking myself, “What is a crescent wrench?” I looked through the toolbox, grabbed something (slip-jawed pliers) and returned to Dad. He looked at me funny, then asked, “David, do you know what a Crescent wrench is?” I stated the obvious, “No sir.” I’m not sure what I expected to happen at that moment, but I remember feeling like I was in trouble. Dad stood up and said, “If you don’t know what something is, ask. I’m not going to hold you accountable for what you don’t know.” Then, he took me and introduced me to a Crescent wrench.

That lesson has proven to be a very important one in my life. ‘If you don’t know something, ask!’ Knowledge and success are always linked. The more important the issue or task, the more critical knowledge will be.

The prophet Jeremiah was only a boy when God called him (see 1:6.) So, when Jeremiah received his first vision, I am sure it was a thrill. ‘Jeremiah, what do you see?’ ‘I see a branch of an almond tree.’ ‘You have seen well, for I am watching over my word to perform it.’ I am certain that this communication with God pleased Jeremiah. I am also certain that somewhere in the back of his mind, he was saying, ‘Uh, I don’t get it.’

The good news is Jeremiah didn’t have to ‘get it’. That is, he didn’t need to know the fullness of God’s vision, the ultimate outcome of his mission, or even the final disposition of his life. Jeremiah needed to trust God and believe that God would tell him what he needed to know when he needed to know it. As long as he said and did what God needed him to say and do, his life would be on track. He would not always know where that track was leading, but God knew, and that would be enough.

Wow! What a difficult lesson to learn - to trust God, we need only know what God wants from us today, and leave tomorrow to Him. Now, we just need to work on discerning what God wants from us today.

It’s just a thought!Bro. David Moseley

Rev. David Moseley | david.moseley@arumc.org | 501.623.6668 ext100

Bereavement Committee RecipesOur Bereavement Committee appreciates all those who help and cherish the faithfulness our church members have shown to our church and to the families of our congregation. They will be publishing recipes that members have prepared for the family meals and receptions each month.

Linda Muse’s Pineapple Cheese Ball2 (8 oz.) packages cream cheese1 (8oz.) can crushed pineapple, well drained1 cup chopped pecans¼ cup chopped green pepper2 Tb. green onion or dried onion flakes1 tsp. Lawry’s Seasoned Salt

Leave cream cheese out of the refrigerator for about 2 hours so that it will

be soft. Stir. Mix pineapple, ¾ cup pecans, green pepper, onion and seasonedsalt in a large mixing bowl. Form two small balls or one large ball and roll in remaining pecans.

Variation: can be used as a spread

Don’t Miss!August Events

Sunday, August 211st-3rd Grade Bible

PresentationAll Services

Sunday, August 14Backpack Blessing

All Services

Sunday, August 28 Church Picnic

4 - 6 pm Christian Life Center

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Grill out and chill out at the 2016 Church Picnic on Sunday, August 28 from 4 - 6 pm in the Christian Life Center! Bring your family for a time of fun, food, and fellowship! We ask that everyone bring chips and dip or a dessert while we provide the hamburgers, hot dogs and baked beans. Kids will have fun with exciting games and a water slide, so don’t forget your water shoes and towels! Everyone is welcome to this fun family event.

Men’s Breakfast The next breakfast meeting for Methodist Men will be Tuesday, August 16 at 7:30 am in the Christian Life Center. This will be the first opportunity for Rev. David Moseley to meet with the men’s group. We look forward to a good turnout for his first meeting with us.

Methodist Men Schedule Golf Tournament The annual Men’s Summit was so much fun that the men didn’t want to wait a year for another event. Join us for a Labor Day golf tournament at Hot Springs Country Club on Monday, September 5 at 8:00 am. The tournament will be a competition between the men of First United Methodist Church and the men of Lake Valley Community Church. A Championship Cup will be awarded to the winning team!

Cost to participate is $50 per player, which includes golf cart and lunch. Details for the registration process will be announced well in advance of the event,

This is an opportunity for fellowship among the men of FUMC as well as the chance to meet and have fun with the men of Lake Valley Church. All participants will meet for lunch together following the competition. The awarding of the Championship Cup will be during lunch. Stay tuned for more details. Contact Bart Bledsoe at (501) 762-2242 to sign up.

United Methodist Men Activities

Church Family Picnic

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Children’s MinistriesMichelle Wilkins |cminister@fumchs.com | 501.623.6668 ext 130

Vacation Bible School and CAMP 45 were TREMENDOUSLY successful! THANK YOU to our volunteers! We had over 160 children and over 70 volunteers participate this year. The children in Vacation Bible School learned all about the rock-solid foundation of God’s love, a love that takes us through life’s dark times. We are also very proud to announce that the children raised close to $1,000 for Methodist Family Health! I think they really wanted to see Pastor David get a pie in his face, and it worked! Our Camp 45 kids learned the kindess is the new cool! They worked throughout the week providing random acts of kindness to others in the community. You can watch the videos and see photos of our kids activities for the week on our children’s ministry Facebook page, just search for and LIKE: FUMC Hot Springs Kidz!

Backpack Blessing Calling all students, teachers, administrators, and anyone who works in the school system! We want to start the school year off right with a special blessing from our congregation. Students, bring your backpacks and teachers, bring your work bags for this special blessing on Sunday, August 14th in all three worship services! We will be saying a prayer for you so that you feel God’s love surrounding you as you begin this new school year.

Children’s Ministry Teacher Training & Kick-off Luncheon Please join us on Sunday, August 14th at 12:15 pm in the Shelton Room of the Christian Life Center for a very special training for all Sunday school leaders, WAK leaders, CLUB 45 teachers, Choir teachers, assistants, or anyone

interested in helping in Children’s Ministry. We will teach you how to build effective relationships with your students through several different teaching strategies. We will cover classroom management techniques, child development, an overview of the curriculum, and will even discuss “spiritual markers” (similar to the benchmarks they use in public schools) to help children have tangible goals to achieve over the course of their faith. Please take the opportunity to attend this important training, if you are at all interested in working with children. Lunch will provided to journey. celebrate the start of the new school year! Child care will be provided upon request.

3rd grade Bible Study Calling all 3rd graders! Join us on Sundays, Sept. 11 – Oct. 30 at 9:30am in Jesus Rocks Café to be part of our special 8-week study called Learning to Use My Bible to help you grow in God’s Word and strengthen you in your knowledge of the Bible basics. Please try to be in attendance for every class and remember to BRING YOUR NEW BIBLE!

Bible Boot Camp Parents bring your 3rd graders out for a fun overnight retreat! We need adult male and female chaperones for every 4 kids, so if you can help, please let Michelle Wilkins know by text or email! Bible Boot Camp will take place Friday, August 26th, 7:00 pm - Saturday, August 27th, 2:00 pm at Camp Tanako. The cost is $45 (scholarships are available). Deadlines to register is Sunday, August 21st.

Our objectives for this camp is to help 3rd graders become more familiar with the Bible, to learn how to access information and

understand the Bible’s purpose for their lives, as well as to make connections and friends outside our local church! We will join together with children from Pulaski Heights UMC, FUMC Little Rock, Asbury UMC, Highland UMC, St James UMC and FUMC North Little Rock! Register online at https://cminister.wufoo.com/forms/3rd-grade-bible-boot-camp/.

Promotion Sunday All grades will promote to their new Sunday school classrooms in the Christian Life Center on Sunday, August 14!Nursery (Birth – 24 months as of Aug. 1): Room 107Toddlers (24-36 months as of Aug. 1): Room 109Pre-K & Kindergarten: Room #1191st grade: Room #208 - Carpenter’s Corner2nd Grade: Room #216 - Shepherd’s Oasis3rd Grade: Room #217- Jesus Rocks Café4th & 5th grade: Room #215 –CLUB 45

Elementary Bible Presentation As part of the formation of our children’s faith, our congregation graciously provides our children with new Bibles to give them the tools they need to learn and grow in God’s Word. We are VERY proud to announce that from this year forward, we will offer children an elementary Bible when they start their 1st grade school year! This will allow young families the opportunity to spend more time reading God’s Word togetherbefore they begin their intensive study in 3rd grade. Presentation ceremonies will be in all three services on Sunday, August 21.

Kidz R.O.C.K. SURPRISE Mission Night! Pre-K - 5th grade kids can bring a friend every 2nd Sunday of the month starting Sunday, September 11th and join us for a special night of food, fun and MISSIONS! Kids will participate in mission projects from 5:00-6:00pm and a pizza snack supper will be from 6:00-6:30pm

UPCOMING EVENTSOctober 9th Children’s Sabbath Sunday in all worship services

October 9th Pre-K Bible Presentation in all worship services

October 9th Kidz R.O.C.K. Mission Project @ 5:00-6:30pm

October 30th Trunk or Treat, Chili Cook-Off, &NEW “Brave Cave” event @ 4:00-7:00pm

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Adult Discipleship Rev. Teresa Holt |tholt@fumchs.com | 501.623.6668 ext 116

To register for any of the below studies, or for more information go to www.fumchotpsrings.org/adults or contact Teresa at 501-623-6668, ext 116 or tholt@fumchs.com. Childcare and Children’s Discipleship programs are provided for small groups that meet on Sunday mornings, and Wednesday evenings.

Bible Study GroupsAnimate Bible Study Sundays, 9:30 – 10:30 a.m., CLC 104 (Shelton Room). Tracy Keaton/Carolyn Watts, facilitators. Begins September 11th. A six week study about the Bible for third grade parents. This is not a Bible study per say, but a study about how the Bible came to be, how it is organized, and how to read and study scripture.

DISCIPLE is a program of disciplined Bible study aimed at developing strong Christian leaders. The study gives the Old and New Testaments equal time, emphasizing the wholeness of the Bible as a revelation of God. DISCIPLE draws upon the work of scholars, the personal Bible reading and study of the participant, and dynamic group discussion to aid understanding of the Bible. Over 400 in our congregation have participated in Disciple Bible study.Disciple Bible Study I Wednesdays, 6:00 – 7:30 p.m., CLC 211. Rev. David Moseley, facilitator. Begins September 7th. This is a comprehensive 32 week study.Disciple Bible Study – Fast Track Sunday mornings, time TBA, CLC 214,. Beth Roberts, facilitator. A Bible Study for young adults (20’s – 40’s) that will meet for 1 ½ hours before the Connexion. This is a shorter but still comprehensive study of the Bible (24 weeks)Disciple Bible Study – Fast Track (2nd Year) Sundays, 5:00 – 6:00 p.m., CLC 209, Janet/Jim Tarkington. Begins August 21st and is a continuation of Fast Track from last year.

Spiritual Growth GroupsLiving the wesleyan Way Wednesdays, 6:00 – 7:00 p.m., CLC 207, Rev. Zach Roberts, Begins September 7th. A small group study for Adults to coincide with the 6th grade Confirmation class. Participants will have the opportunity to learn more about our Wesleyan heritage and beliefs: how we study scripture, how we worship, how we live our daily lives as a disciple of Jesus, and what makes us a unique people.

Spiritual Formation Wednesdays, 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.., CLC 204 (Ellis Conference Room) Rev. Teresa Holt, September 7 – November 2. Henri Nowen’s writings, compiled in Spiritual Formation, are utilized as the small group grows deeper in their relationship with God utilizing visual meditation, and ancient prayer practices. If you have wanted a deeper prayer life and are seeking a deeper peace, this small group is a great place to learn how to begin.

Gifts of the Dark Wood Mondays, 10:30 – 11:30 a.m., CLC 204 (Ellis Conference Room) Rev. Teresa Holt, September 12 – November 7. Though commonly understood as a place to be feared and avoided, the Dark Wood is the surest place to meet God. It is a place where you may feel uncertain, empty, lost, tempted, and alone. Yet these feelings - these gifts of the Dark Wood - can be your greatest assets on your journey. According to the ancients, you don’t need to be a saint or spiritual master to experience profound awakening. You don’t even have to be “above average.” All you really need to be is struggling. This is a study for anyone who feels awkward in their search for God, who seeks to find holiness amid their holy mess, who prefers practicality to piety when it comes to finding their place in this world.

Women’s Study GroupsWhen Women Walk Alone Wednesdays, 6:00 – 7:00 p.m., CLC 209, Joyce Whitfield and Sheri Fisher, September 7th – November 16. Every woman, single or married, young or old, has walked rough the desert of aloneness. Maybe you’re going through the desert of aloneness. Maybe you’re going through it right now. Perhaps you are feeling overwhelmed by certain difficulties. Or deep inside, you’re restless and you’re not sure why. Or you feel disconnected from others around

WAK, CLUB 45, & Children’s Music Our famous WAK, CLUB 45 and Children’s Music programming starts Wednesday, September 7. Be sure to note NEW programming times! WAK and CLUB 45 will be from 3:30 - 5:30 pm and Pre-K/K Choir will be from 5:00 - 5:30 pm. Family dinner will be served in Cupp Hall from 5:00-6:00pm. 1st-5th grade Choir & Handbells will be from 6:00-7:00pm in the CLC Children’s Wing. Adult Classes for Parents will be from 6:00-7:00pm in the CLC Adult Wing. Childcare is available for younger children whose parents are participating in Wednesday night programs. Online registration begins today! LAST DAY TO REGISTER, August 30th!

Children’s Ministries cont.

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Outreach MinistriesCandy Poirier |christianed@fumchs.com | 501.623.6668 ext 117

Dinner & A Movie Come join us for our next Dinner and a Movie on Thursday, August 18th at 4:30 pm. We will meet in the Christian Life Center’s Shelton Room for a light supper and then enjoy the movie and popcorn. The cost is $5 per person.

We will be seeing Woodlawn starring Sean Astin, Nic Bishop, Caleb Castille, Sherri Shepherd, and Jon Voight. In 1973, a spiritual awakening captured the heart of nearly every player on the Woodlawn

High School football team. Their dedication to love and unity, in a newly desegregated school filled with racism and hate, leads to the largest high school football game ever played in the torn city of Birmingham, Alabama, and the rise of superstar, Tony Nathan. Call for reservations before August 17. Everyone is welcome!

No Stress Sunday Thinking about joining our church family, but don’t want the stress of joining during the service? Then No Stress Sunday is for you! At the end of all three services on Sunday, August 18, join the pastors to profess your faith in First United Methodist of Hot Springs. Join the pastors at the Welcome Center at the back of the sanctuary after the Traditional services, or in the parlor of the Christian Life Center after the ConneXion. You are always welcome to join the church at any time but this is a way some may feel more comfortable without the stress of walking to the front at the end of worship. We are looking forward to welcoming you into the church!

Music MinistriesTimothy Tucker |ttucker@fumchs.com | 501.623.6668 ext

Calling all singers! If you like to sing and especially enjoy singing praises to God, then come join the Chancel Choir. There is no audition, all are welcome. We rehearse on Wednesday evenings, from 6:30 to 8:00pm, and meet on Sunday mornings in the choir room at 7:45am if you are singing for the 8:15 service, and at 10:15am to prepare for the 10:45 service. As well as singing for the Traditional Worship services on Sunday morning, the choir also presents special musical events during the year, such as Advent Lessons and Carols and the annual Grand/Central Christmas concert. For more information, contact Timothy Tucker, Director of Traditional Music, at ttucker@fumchs.com or by calling 501-623-6668, ext. 118.

Children’s Choir Director The church is in need of a new children’s choir director. This is a part-time, paid position that will be supervised by the Director of Traditional Music and will be responsible for rehearsing and directing two children’s choirs, Kidz Praize (1st through 5th graders) and The Quarter Notes (3 to 5 year olds). Applicants should be able to read, teach, and direct music, but need not have a music or education degree. Piano skills are helpful, but not required. What is required is a desire to teach children to praise God through music and to cultivate our youngest disciples. If you are interested, please contact Timothy Tucker, Director of Traditional Music, or Michelle Wilkins, Children’s Ministry Director.

Camp Jam-A-Lotta 2016 was a blast! If you don’t believe that statement, just look at some of the pictures. A special shout –out goes to our teachers, Hachya Franklin, Beth Roberts and Sheree O’Rorke as

well as all of our volunteers. The kids had a fun time learning recorders, ukuleles, chimes, and singing, as well as getting their dance and beats on through Drums Alive!

Drivers NEEDED! We are in desperate need of volunteer golf cart and van/bus drivers on Sunday morning. To drive the bus to pick up parishioners, you must have or be willing to get a CDL license. Please contact Candy if you are interested in either of these ministries!

you, or suffering from a serious personal loss. The alone times can be an invitation from God to deepen your relationship with Him. He can provide the healing and hope you need, and best of all, He has promised he will never leave you.

Entrusted: A Study of 2 Timothy Date and time TBA. Tentatively for October. A new study from Beth Moore. Look for more information in the Bulletin, Messenger and website.

Adult Discipleship cont.

What’s Your Name? Wear Your Name Tags! Don’t forget to wear your nametags! In the Sanctuary they are located downstairs and in the Christian Life Center they are in the drawers at the Welcome Center (alphabetized). Call Candy if you need of a new one.

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UMW ReportAll women of the church are invited to become an active and involved member of the United Methodist Women (UMW) of First United Methodist Church. Each of the five Circles listed here are part of the UMW Unit. Learn about who they are, when they meet, what they do, and who to contact if you are interested in becoming a member of their group.

Grace in Action CircleIn the fall of 2015 a group of young women of the church were asked to form a new United Methodist Women’s group. We were so happy to begin our new circle that we named ourselves “Grace in Action.” We meet on the third Thursday of each month for fellowship, lunch and serving our church for the less fortunate people in our community. We have been busy assembling goody bags for children in need of socks, toiletries, hygiene products and laundry detergent. We are very passionate about helping with the Open Arms Food Pantry.

If there are any suggestions of other missions our congregation thinks we can help with, please let us know. If you interested in becoming a part of our wonderful group of women, please contact Laura Whitley at (501) 627-4636.

New Legacy CirclePrior to the Grace in Action Circle, New Legacy was the first new UMW Circle to form in many years. This group was organized in December 2012 to accommodate women who work or those who prefer a night meeting. The circle chose its name to carry on the legacy of the mothers of some the members; mothers who served UMW so faithfully. In keeping with the vision of UMW worldwide, the New Legacy Circle nurtures relationships among members. We are organized for growth and offer many opportunities for fellowship and service.

Activities in which members of New Legacy volunteer include Open Arms Food Pantry on the first Tuesday of each month, collecting items for Open Arms, Safe Haven and other missions of UMW.

By meeting in the evening, we offer flexibility for everyone’s schedule. We gather informally on the third Tuesday of each month. Please email Tommie Kelly at tktommie@gmail.com if you would like to be included on our mailing list.

Helen Wilson CircleThe Helen Wilson Circle is named for our church’s former beloved missionary. We meet at 10:00 a.m. on the second Tuesday of the month, September through May, in the homes of various members. We enjoy a delicious brunch prepared by rotating members, followed by an educational, inspirational or uplifting program and end with a short business meeting.

Members of the Helen Wilson Circle volunteer in many local missions, including the Caring Place, Open Arms, Arkansas Methodist Family Health, Cookies on a Mission, Habitat for Humanity, and Open Door. If you are interested in finding out more about this active and involved Circle, contact Carol Smith, Helen Wilson Circle Chair, at 624-7035, or Jane Bennett, Co-Chair at 525-1717

Jane Murphy Circle On the second Tuesday of each month, September through May, we meet at noon in the Holy Grounds Café of the CLC. Each member brings her own lunch and the hostess for that month provides dessert. Lunch is followed by a short business meeting and a program presented by one of our members or a guest speaker. We continue to meet during the summer months for

lunch at a local restaurant.

Some of the service projects in which members are involved include serving lunch at the Jackson House and serving lunch to the Wesley Foundation at Henderson State University in Arkadelphia. Other local missions in which we are involved include Open Arms, Open Door, Habitat for Humanity lunch, the church’s quarterly blood drive, Arkansas Methodist Family Health, and Safe Haven. To learn more about the Jane Murphy Circle, contact Claire Wisman, Circle Chair, at 609-9616.

O’Brien-Thornton CircleNeva O’Brien and Joyce Thornton welcome you to a faith-based, caring group of dedicated Methodist women. We meet at 10:00 am on the second Tuesday of each month, September through May, in the Shelton Room of the CLC.

Our members are involved in all local UMW missions. In May and November, we provide cookies for the Caring Place. We also participate in Cookies on a Mission, and provide items for Safe Haven, Open Arms and Arkansas Methodist Family Health. To learn more about the O’Brien-Thornton Circle, contact Neva O’Brien at 520-0279 or Joyce Thornton at 624-0946.

UMW Unit Meetings In January, May, September and November of each year, members from all of the UMW Circles come together at 10:00 a.m. in the Shelton Room of the CLC for a time of fellowship, a business meeting, and a mission focused program. In January, UMW Board members prepare a soup lunch and in May and November its potluck with each person bringing her favorite dish. For the September meeting, refreshments are provided by one of the Circles.

Pray With Us

Please pray with us that God will bless the Listening Tours with good participation and much fruit from the communications. Also, pray for all our area schools, the administrator and staff, and the students as they return to school. Please pray for their safety, protection, and a successful school year. Most importantly, pray that “the children may grow in wisdom, and in stature, and favor with God and man.” Luke 2:52

In OurPrayers

Christian Sympathy goes to...Jean Lacefield in the death of her sister, Katherine Lacefield; Larry & Madison Dewitt and Jojo Reed in the death of Jojo’s husband, Larry’s father-in-law and Madison’s grandfather, Reuben Reed; Leonette, David, and Sara Bryant in the death of Leonette’s mother, Sara Joree Ridgway Tucker; and Paul & Sally Beckman in the death of Paul’s brother, Tom Beckman.

Please keep these families in your prayers at this time.7

HOORAY! Once again the CDC had been designated as a Better Beginnings Three Star Center, which is the highest rating attainable in the Arkansas’ Quality Rating Improvement System. This three-star designation came about because of the scores the CDC received on four separate rating scales; one for infant and toddler classrooms, one for preschool

classrooms, one for the school-age classroom, plus one for administration. The CDC is the only non-publically funded program in Garland Count to attain and maintain this rating.

The CDC is proud to have been voted the Number One Child Care Center in Garland County by readers of the Sentinel-Record. Thanks to the members of First United Methodist Church for supporting us in achieving these designations and fulfilling our mission of helping children “Explore, Discover, Learn and Grow in Faith.”

School-Age Children Attend Camp Jam-A-Lotta Miss Bobbie and all of the CDC school-age children attended Camp Jam-A-Lotta and had a blast. Here is what the children had to say when they were asked about their favorite part of the camp:

None of the children who participated in the music camp attend FUMC. However, all of them had the opportunity to join with FUMC children in this wonderful experience.

CDC Children Attend VBS Because of shared space, the CDC was closed during VBS. However, ten CDC children attended VBS; five who attend FUMC and five who do not. In fact, one of child who does not attend the church attended Camp Jam-A-Lotta and, along with her younger sister, also attended VBS. Here is what she had to say about her favorite VBS experience: “My favorite part was Deep Bible Quest. We learned a Bible story and got to go in a cave.”

Now Enrolling If you are looking for a faith-based, high quality child care center in which your child can “Explore, Discover, Learn, and Grow in Faith”, contact LesLee Jones, CDC Director, at 318-1377 to schedule a family tour. The CDC is enrolling children from six weeks to five years.

Child Development CenterLesLee Jones|ljones@fumchs.com | 501.318.1377

“Actually, what I liked about it was playing hand chimes. They went ‘ding’. Miss Beth was an awesome teacher.” Then all of the children joined in singing “Jesus, Jesus, Jesus loves me.”

“Drums Alive was the best part of the whole thing. We got to play a game, 1, 2, 3, on them. I particularly liked the teacher. Her name was A-choo, like when you sneeze.”

UMW Report

Pray With Us

Caring Ministries of the ChurchIf you, a loved one or friend are undergoing an illness, grief, divorce or other life changing situation, we are here to help. We have many caring ministries of this church that can provide opportunities for prayer and healing.

Stephen Ministry Our Stephen Ministers are provided extensive training to be a listening ear for someone who is suffering, lonely or in need of special attention. Stephen Ministers are not counselors but instead a Christian presence to be with someone during difficult times. Our Stephen Ministers also provide hospital visitation, volunteer to pray with our Open Arms Food Pantry guests, and are volunteer chaplains for community help organizations. If you would like a Stephen Minister for you or someone you know, contact the church office at (501) 623-6668

Knitwits This wonderful ministry meets once a month and many in our church provide these handmade items as a tangible representation of love to those undergoing difficult situations as well as young babies and their families. The Knitwits supply prayer shawls for those who are suffering illness or grief and are prayed over by those creating and those delivering the shawl; crocheted and knitted hats are provided to the Genesis Cancer Center and anyone who is undergoing chemotherapy; Baby Blankets are given to the family of babies or young children who are baptized in our church; and Layette sets are provided to community organizations who assist young mothers. To ask for a prayer shawl you may contact the church office or Joyce Thornton. Hats are also readily available by contacting Joyce Thornton. (501) 624-0946

Anointing Ministry Every Communion Sunday, Anointers are available at the front of the Sanctuary to anoint during communion. You may ask for healing for you, family member, or friend. All healing is of God. The Church’s healing ministry in no way detracts from the gifts God gives through medicine and psychotherapy. It is no substitute for either medicine or the proper care of one’s health. Rather, it adds to our total resources for wholeness. Healing is not magic, but underlying it is the great mystery of God’s love. Those who minister spiritual healing are channels of God’s love. Although no one can predict what will happen in a given instance, many marvelous healings have taken place. God does not promise that we shall be spared suffering but does promise to be with us in our suffering. Trusting that promise, we are enabled to recognize God’s sustaining presence in pain, sickness, injury, and estrangement. Likewise, God does not promise that we will be cured of all illnesses; and we all must face the inevitability of death. A Service of Healing is not necessarily a service of curing, but it provides an atmosphere in which healing can happen. The greatest healing of all is the reunion or reconciliation of a human being with God. When this happens, physical healing sometimes occurs, mental and emotional balance is often restored, spiritual health is enhanced, and relationships are healed. For the Christian the basic purpose of spiritual healing is to renew and strengthen one’s relationship with the living Christ.

Prayer Team Our prayer team meets each week on Wednesdays, 11:30 a.m., to pray over concerns expressed by our members and guests. They regularly touch base with those who have requested prayer and are dedicated in their daily prayer life to pray for you. If you have a prayer concern for you or someone else, you can submit it by a prayer card, located in the pews or registration books on Sunday (to be placed in the offering plate) or by email, prayer@fumchs.com.

For questions or to volunteer with any of these caring ministries, or if you know of someone who could benefit from our pastoral care, please contact Rev. Teresa Holt, (501) 623-6668, ext 116. We don’t want anyone to have to experience traumatic or difficult events alone.

Caring Ministries cont.

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VBS & Camp Jam-A-LottaTo see more pictures of Vacation Bible School, go to our Facebook page!

www.facebook.com/fumchotsprings

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Church SurveyWe need your input! Please take the time to fill out this very short survey concerning our church. Once you are finished, tear out this page and return to the church office. The deadline to turn in the survey is Monday, August 15. PLEASE NOTE: We ask that you complete only one survey. If you are completing a paper form, please do not complete a digital form. If you have already completed a digital form, please do not fill out this form. The church will gladly provide a form to those individuals who have not received one at the church office so that each person can participate in the survey. Thank you for being a part of this important listening process!

Please take time to read each question. Place an X beside the answer that most reflects you.

1. I regularly participate in the ministries of First United Methodist Church of Hot Springs.

____Yes ____No

2. I regularly attend Sunday morning worship at First United Methodist Church of Hot Springs.

____Yes ____No

3. My preferred Sunday morning worship time is (please choose only one):

____ 8:15 Traditional

____ 8:15 Contemporary

____ 9:30 Traditional

____ 9:30 Contemporary

____10:45 Traditional

____10:45 Contemporary

4. I regularly attend Sunday School at 9:30 a.m. at First United Methodist Church of Hot Springs.

____Yes ____No

5. I would be interested in an alternative Sunday School hour offered on Wednesdays at 6 p.m.

____Yes ____No

Special GiftsIn Memory of Ron Formby From Jon & Suzie Burton, Bill, Shannon, Alec & Adrian AhlbrandtIn Memory of Cecil Cupp, Jr. From Steve & Rene’ Burns, Jane Ann CopelandIn Memory of Shirley Meyer From Steve & Rene’ Burns, Don & Suzanne Patillo, Cecil & Mary Ann Cupp In Memory of Dr. James Atkinson (Father of Dr. Ross Atkinson) From Steve & Rene’ Burns, John & Karen PoeIn Memory of Bill Provin From Steve & Rene’ BurnsIn Memory of Larry Alderman From Donna Simpson, Mr. & Mrs. Larry FuhrmanIn Memory of Ron Bailey Sr. From Jean McClanahan, Nitalynn Sigman, Priscilla Harper, Margaret Van Schenck, Steve & Rene’ Burns, Don & Suzanne Patillo, John & Karen PoeIn Memory of Nita Ridgway From Jon & Suzie BurchIn Memory of Don Bridges From Don BridgesIn Memory of Jamie Calhoun From Bill Sorrels & Elizabeth Farris, Bobbie Horton, L.R. & Shirley Ramick, Ann SheltonIn Memory of Jeb Mills (Jeff & Cynthia Purnell’s Brother in Law) From Steve & Rene’ BurnsIn Memory of Jack English (Father of Dr. Tim English) From Steve & Rene’ BurnsIn Memory of Don Fulenwider From Steve & Rene’ Burns

In Memory of Martha Magnolia “Maggie” AdkinsHamby From James & Glenda Cross, Bruce & Janis Smith, KK & James Montgomery, Kelly & Vickie Robbins, J.W. Manufacturing Company, Tom & Marilyn Hamm, Harold, Dawn & Melody Duke, Jon & Suzie Burch, Harry Metcalf, Theda James, Sara E. Umphers, The Stough Family, Relyance Bank, Nitalynn Sigman, Smith’s Consumer Products, Inc., Mr. & Mrs. Jim Osborne, Carol Shoup, Ron & Robyn Blasingame, The Criterion Club, Erwin & Priscilla Harper-Cook, Ann Shelton, Bill, Shannon, Alec, & Adrian Ahlbrandt, Mike & Ruby BushIn Memory of Katherine Ann Lacefield (Sister of Jean Lacefield) From Ann Lowerre, Julie & Graham HoltIn Memory of Fabern James From Bill Shannon, Alec & Adrian Ahlbrandt, John & Karen PoeIn Memory of Mary Lynn Courey (Sister of Doke Douglas) From Lura HercherIn Memory of Gay Yancey From John & Karen PoeIn Memory of John “Penny” Scott From John & Karen PoeIn Memory of William Selby Kennedy From John & Karen PoeIn Memory of Sara Joree Ridgway Tucker From George & Karen DooleyIn Memory of Reuben Reed (Larry DeWitt’s Father in law -Madison’s Grandfather) From George & Karen DooleyIn Memory of Gwen & Cecil Cupp, Jr. From Carolyn Elias

A Big Thank You From Open Arms!

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Thank you Ralph Robinson for supplying the Open Arms Food Pantry with beautiful fresh tomatoes and cucumbers from your garden this summer. They have been such a blessing for those visiting the pantry.

If you would like to donate food and/or toiletry items to the Open Arms Food Pantry, please contact Candy Poirer at (501) 623-6668 ext 117. Any donations are greatly appreciated! Thank you!

Looking For History BookWe are looking for copies of our History Book written by Mrs. Emory A. McCleary. If you know of any not being used, please return them ot the church office. Thank you! - Joyce Thornton

August 2016 @ FUMCMonday, August 1Pilates 8:30 AMEmmaus Women’s Group 9:00 AMNew Legacy Circle 5:30 PM Youth Activity Week (Commando Game) 6:00 PM

Tuesday, August 2Open Arms Food Pantry 2:00 PMStephen Ministry Leadership Team Mtg. 5:30 PMStephen Ministry Supervision Mtg. 6:00 PMGenesis Class 6:00 PMYouth Activity Week (Carmike Theater) 7:00 PM

Wednesday, August 3Pilates 8:30 AMHo Hum Low Impact Exercise 9:00 AMRomeo 11:30 AMThe Listening Life Study 11:45 AMIntercessory Prayer Group 11:30 AMYouth Activity Week (Downtown Night Out) 6:00 PMChoir Rehearsal 6:30 PM

Thursday, August 4Women’s Leadership Council 11:45 AMImagination Library Meeting 3:00 PMYouth Activity Week (Altitude Trampoline Park) Friday, August 5Pilates 8:30 AMHo Hum Low Impact Exercise 9:00 AM

Sunday, August 7Early Service Choir Rehearsal 7:45 AMTraditional Worship 8:15 AMAdvanced Usher Training 9:30 AMConneXion Worship 9:30 AM Traditional Worship 10:45 AMYouth Council Meeting 3:00 PM

Monday, August 8Pilates 8:30 AMEmmaus Women’s Group 9:00 AM

Tuesday, August 9Jane-Murphy Circle (Blue Monkey) 12:00 PMOpen Arms Food Pantry 2:00 PM

Wednesday, August 10Pilates 8:30 AMHo Hum Low Impact Exercise 9:00 AMRomeo 11:30 AMThe Listening Life Study 11:45 AMKnitwits Meeting 1:00 PM Intercessory Prayer Group 3:00 PMPrayer for Revival 4:30 PMChoir Rehearsal 6:30 PM

Friday, August 12Pilates 8:30 AMHo Hum Low Impact Exercise 9:00 AM

Sunday, August 14Promotion Sunday (All Services)Backpack Blessing (All Services)Traditionsal Worship 8:15 AMConneXion Worship 9:30 AMTraditions Worship 10:45 AMLong Range Planning 4:00 PM

Monday, August 15Pilates 8:30 AMEmmaus Women’s Group 9:00 AMUMW Board Meeting 1:30 PM

Tuesday, August 16Methodist Men’s Breakfast 7:30 AMOpen Arms Food Pantry 2:00 PM

Wednesday, August 17Pilates 8:30 AMRomeo 11:30 AMIntercessory Prayer Group 11:30 AMThe Listening Life Study 11:45 AMChildren’s Council Meeting 5:45 PMChoir Rehearsal 6:30 PM

Thursday, August 18Grace In Action Circle 11:45 AMDinner & Movie Night 4:30 PM

Friday, August 19Pilates 8:30 AMHo Hum Low Impact Exercise 9:00 AM Sunday, August 21 1st - 3rd Grade Bible Presentation(All Services)Traditional Worship 8:15 AMConneXion Worship 9:30 AMCoffee with the Pastors 9:30 AMChapel Communion 9:30 AMTraditional Worship 10:45 AMFinance Committee Meeting 2:00 PMDisciple Bible Study 5::30 PM

Monday, August 22Pilates 8:30 AMEmmaus Women’s Group 9:00 AM

Tuesday, August 23Open Arms Food Pantry 2:00 PM

Wednesday, August 24Pilates 8:30 AMHo Hum Low Impact Exercise 9:00 AMRomeo 11:30 AMIntercessory Prayer Group 11:30 AMChoir Rehearsal 6:30 PM

Friday, August 26Pilates 8:30 AMHo Hum Low Impact Exercise 9:00 AMBible Boot Camp (Camp Tanako) 9:00 AM

Sunday, August 28NO Stress Sunday (All Services)Early Sunday Choir Rehearsal 7:45 AMTraditions Worship 8:15 AMConneXion Worship 9:30 AMTraditions Worship 10:45 AMChurch Picnic 4:00 PMDisciple Bible Study 5::30 PM

Monday, August 29Pilates 8:30 AMEmmaus Women’s Group 9:00 AM

Tuesday, August 30 Open Arms Food Pantry 2:00 PM

Wednesday, August 31Pilates 8:30 AMHo Hum Low Impact Exercise 9:00 AMIntercessory Prayer Group 11:30 AMRomeo 11:30 AMChoir Rehearsal 6:30 PM

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First United Methodist Church1100 Central AvenueHot Springs, AR 71901

CONNECT WITH US (501) 623-6668 (phone) | www.fumchs.org

Welcome Our New Members!

Rev. David & Carol Moseley Stacie Bratton & Susan Pierce(Daughters of Rev. David & Carol

Moseley)

Bruce & Cindy Smith