A Weekly Newsletter of The First United Methodist Church
Thursday, May 18
Sunday Worship
Message: Rev. Dr. Mark A. Fowler
Text: Acts 17:22-31
Music: Chancel Choir, Blessed Brass
Prelude Begins at 8:50 a.m.
 
Worship: 9 a.m. & 11:15 a.m., Sanctuary
Coffee Fellowship: 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Fellowship Hall 
Education & Spiritual Formation 
Sunday, May 21, 10:15 a.m.

Sunday School for Children and Youth
Classrooms on Lower Level
 
Shaping a Generation - Room LL12
Rev. Dr. Mark A. Fowler, facilitator. 
 
FUMC 101: The Wesleyan Movement - Chapel
Rev. Dr. Phil Blackwell, facilitator. 
 
Theology for the 21st Century - Room LL05
Facilitated by class participants. 
Like Newborns

We pledge to nurture the children of our Christian family through the daily work of building a foundation to stand on. These promises we make are leading to the transformational ministry to and of the world where we all will be God's children together.
First Church Ministries Highlights

Keep an eye on the projection screens in the Sanctuary during the worship Offertory time. Each week we will express our appreciation for the wide variety of critical ministries to which our friends and members give their gifts of time and energy as an offering to God. There are many ways we can give to God and serve our neighbors. Maybe you will be inspired to become involved in one of these ministry areas too!
TRANSforming Faith Workshop
Saturday, June 3, 
9 a.m. - 4 p.m., FUMC

This day, organized by Joanne Lee in honor of Skylar Lee, will be dedicated to strengthening understanding between transgender youth, their parents and their faith leaders. The event will consist of panel discussions, caucus break out groups and workshops on a variety of pertinent topics. The event is open to the public and all are encouraged to attend.
All-Church Pentecost Celebration!
Sunday, June 4

June 4 is Pentecost Sunday, the day we celebrate the gift of the Holy Spirit's presence and the birth of the Church. Please plan to worship at either 9 or 11:15 a.m. and to be part of the festivities in Fellowship Hall at 10:15 a.m. Come to share all the best of a birthday party...cake, decorations and gifts! More important will be the sharing of good news about exciting and fruitful ministries the Spirit is empowering in and through our congregation. Adult classes are being suspended for the morning (except for Theology for the 21st Century) and children and youth will join the festivities for part of the hour, enabling us to celebrate together as a whole community. Please plan to join the Pentecost celebrations on June 4.
It's Time to DO SOMETHING!
Education/Formation, Direct Involvement, and Advocacy are three distinct, yet inter-connected avenues that have been identified for our congregation's continued engagement in the work of addressing racial equity. This summer we have opportunity for Direct Involvement. The STARS program (Summer Teaching to Advance Reading Success) prepares pre-kindergarten and kindergarten-ready students for success in school and is looking for morning volunteers June 19-July 28. Volunteer to help young children develop reading, math and social skills by assisting for one to four hours between the hours of 7:45 a.m. and noon for anywhere from one to six weeks. 
or call 608-338-0545
Faith, Fasting and Friendship:
An Interfaith Ramadan Break-the-Fast Potluck Iftar
Saturday, June 10, 7:30 - 10:30 p.m.
Madison Labor Temple, 1602 S Park St #106

Bring your friends and family, meet new friends, learn about food and fasting in different religious traditions, and bring a dish to share. First Church is a co-sponsor of this interfaith gathering.
Perfect Harmony Men's Chorus Concert
Friday, June 2, 7:30 p.m., Sanctuary
Joys & Concerns
We offer love and condolences to the family and friends of Duaine "Bill" Mossman, who died on May 10. A memorial service was held at First United Methodist Church in Baraboo on May 13.
Announcements
Special Church Conference
Sunday, May 28, Noon, Fellowship Hall
Our District Superintendent, Rev. Scott Carlson, will lead the meeting to ratify action of the First Church Governing Board on two projects that will enhance our capacity for ministry and embrace good financial stewardship. Look for a table in the Octagon this Sunday for more information or email [email protected] .
Aid for NW Wisconsin
The United Methodist Wisconsin Conference is accepting donations to assist residents of northwestern Wisconsin affected by this week's tornado and floods.  Letter from Bishop Jung >
In the Octagon This Sunday

Just Bakery Initiative
Fresh bakery products for sale from this program of Madison Urban Ministries (MUM). Learn More >

International Ministries Equal Exchange Coffee
What goes better with bakery than a good cup of coffee? Coffee, chocolate and other goodies now available only on the third Sunday of each month. Learn More >
Young Adults Discussion Group
Tuesdays, May 23 - June 6, 7 p.m., Barrique's (127 W. Wash)
Join us for a study led by Rev. Mark Fowler, who will be teaching from his book, Mentoring into Vocation.
or call 608-338-0158
UMW Envisioning Team
Wednesday, May 24, 1 p.m., Room 208
Come with your dreams, ideas and hopes as we continue to build bridges in our community. All are invited to attend.
Vacation Bible School 2017
Monday, June 26 - Friday, June 30
Save the date! 
Wesleyan Heritage in England
Travel and Learn Together
Rev. Dr. Mark Fowler will be the primary teacher on a pilgrimage to England next summer, July 9-16, 2018. Pick up an itinerary and registration form at the Information Desk in the Narthex, in the class being led by Rev. Dr. Phil Blackwell, or request one from Rev. Tina Lang at 608-467-5108 or [email protected]. There is a $50 price reduction for those who register prior to July 9, 2017 and the number of participants is limited so if you're interested, don't delay.
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203 Wisconsin Avenue
Madison, WI 53703
608-256-9061