St. Mark's United Methodist Church of Bloomington, Indiana
is an inclusive community bringing Christ-like love, healing and hope to all.

We embrace the United Methodist ideal of Open Hearts, Open Minds and Open Doors
by welcoming those of all races, cultures, faith traditions, sexual orientations, and gender identities.
THIS SUNDAY AT ST. MARK'S
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 24th
SIXTEENTH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST
SPECIAL MUSIC
CHILDREN & YOUTH IN WORSHIP LEADERSHIP
STEWARDSHIP KICK-OFF SUNDAY
_____________________________    
BREAKFAST 
9:00am (Garton Hall) 
Thank you to those who will be  
preparing breakfast along with  
Breakfast Coordinator
Christine Conrad.
   
ADULT SUNDAY SCHOOL 
9:15am    Pilgrims (Room 13) 
9:15
am    Nomads (Room 10)
9:30am   Bible Banter (Room 11)
 
FAITH & LIFE SERIES
9:15 am   (Room 8) 

INFANT & TODDLER NURSERY CARE 
Infants through Three-year-olds  
9:30am-11:30am 
(Rooms 24 & 25)
 
 
Children, Friends & Family
9:30am (
Garton Hall)
 

CHILDREN & YOUTH SUNDAY SCHOOL
CLASSROOM ASSIGNMENTS
10:30am-11:30am  
Preschool (Room 27)
Kindergarten-1st grade (Room 28) 
2nd-3rd grade (Room 9)
4th-5th grade (Room 4) 
Youth: 6th-8th Grade (Room 3)
Youth: 9th-12th grade (Room 1) 
 
SANCTUARY WORSHIP SERVICE 
10:30am
Reverend Mary Beth Morgan, preaching 
Mark 4:26-29
Sermon Title:
Where Our Heart Is: Our Evolving Story 
 
 
Sunday, September 24th
September Stewardship Kickoff:  
"Where the Heart Is"
Make your plans to join us for worship and lunch this SUnday. In worship, we will celebrate the diverse gifts of our congregation, including great music led by individuals and groups of many ages and musical talents. Following worship, plan to stay for the Stewardship Lunch in Garton Hall. Our Stewardship Team will lead us through a celebration of the ministry and mission for St. Mark's and conversation about needs and possibilities for the year ahead. To help us plan for the day, i f you are able, please RSVP here or contact the church office.  ([email protected], 812-332-5788). All are welcome!  
Sunday, September 24th, 10:30am Sanctuary Worship 
Children and Youth in Worship Leadership 
Children and Youth are welcome to be part of worship leadership any Sunday.  They are especially invited, this month, on Sunday, September 24th.  They are invited to serve by greeting/handing out bulletins, lighting candles (acolyte), drawing a picture for the bulletin cover, reading scripture, leading a prayer, sharing a musical or artistic talent, helping the ushers, etc.  Please contact Mary Beth Morgan if your child(ren)/youth would like to participate in worship leadership on September 24th, and which role(s) are of interest.  Thank you!   
Sunday, September 24th, 9:15-10:15am, Room 8 
"Faith & Life" Series,  
Convened by Phil and Elaine Amerson
In our daily life, how do we live in faithful relationship with God's creation and all of humanity?  The United Methodist Church has crafted "Our Social Creed" and the "Social Principles" to help guide us in creating a world of justice and peace.  Conversation leaders will ground our exploration of some current issues and the invitations to engage and respond. Contact Mary Beth Morgan for more information.  All are welcome!  You do not need to attend a previous session in order to participate.  
 
September 24 - The Social Community  
Local & United Methodist Church Leaders, Beverly Calender-Anderson & Donald Griffin, members of the City of Bloomington Safety, Civility and Justice Task Force Leaders, Reconciling Task Force members
 
Breakfast Volunteers
Our breakfast event has become a great way to start the morning, and to provide a deep welcome to all who come our way. It is also a great way for those groups who help provide breakfast to raise contributions for their own mission effort or a cause they value. Sign up today in Garton Hall to provide breakfast on a future Sunday. Contact the church office or breakfast coordinator Christine Conrad at 812-961-2959 or [email protected] 

  ___________________________  

Get to know one another;  
wear a name tag, please. 
 
SUNDAY SCHOOL
_____________________
ADULT SUNDAY SCHOOL  
PILGRIMS
9:15am-10:15am in Room 13
NOMADS
9:15am-10:15am in Room 10
BIBLE BANTER
9:30am-10:15am in Room 11
_____________________
CHILDREN AND YOUTH

NURSERY CARE
9:30am-11:30am
Infant through Three-year-olds  
(Rooms 24 & 25)

     
CHILDREN, FRIENDS & FAMILY of ALL AGES
9:30am-10:15am
Garton Hall 

CHILDREN & YOUTH SUNDAY SCHOOL 
CLASSROOM ASSIGNMENTS
10:30am-11:30am 
Preschool (Room 27)
Kindergarten-1st grade (Room 28) 
2nd-3rd grade (Room 9)
4th-5th grade (Room 4) 
Youth: 6th-8th Grade (Room 3)
Youth: 9th-12th grade (Room 1)
_____________________
QUESTIONS ABOUT
CHILDREN'S OR YOUTH MINISTRIES?
_____________________ 
 
Sunday School Registration Renewal 
Complete registration forms here.
If you have not yet registered your child for Sunday School this year, please do so today. If needed, forms are available at the Sunday School table in Garton Hall. This form is an annual requirement for each child (multiple children can be entered on one form).
_____________________
Join a Sunday School Teaching Team - We Are Still in Need!  
Because of the wonders of having enough children to add one more class this fall, we still have a few openings in our teaching teams. This fall, our classes will include cooking, science, drama, spiritual practices, and so much more. Come play and experience your inner child!
 
Kindergarten-1st Grade: need one teacher 
2nd-3rd Grade: need two teachers 
4th - 5th Grade: need two teachers
Youth: need two teachers

Each Sunday
Sign In & Name Tags for Sunday School & Childcare 
Children attending childcare or Sunday School must be signed in and have a name tag from the table in Garton Hall. Please sign in before worship. 
 
Each Sunday
Children, Friends & Family of all Ages 
CELEBRATION! is back and better than ever.  Over the summer, we realized we love the multi-generational community that happens during our Sunday morning breakfasts, and we adore having everyone be able to enjoy our church's musical talent. Now, we can have the best of both worlds! CELEBRATION! will continue on Sunday mornings and will now take place in Garton Hall, near the piano.  All will be invited to reflect on the theme for the day, as conversation questions will be distributed on the breakfast tables, and church goers of all ages are invited to take part in the hands-on experiences available at the tables near the piano.  Also, on Sundays when he's available, Aaron will close out our community in song as we end in a communal "Great Amen" before heading to the Sanctuary for worship.
_____________________
Adult Sunday School, 9:30am
Bible Banter

The Bible Banter class meets in Room 11 each Sunday from 9:30-10:15am. The Scripture text for the morning's sermon is used as a discussion-starter.

We look at the passage in its larger context, and we sometimes explore a bit of Bible-writing history. We offer some thoughts on what the morning's sermon might look like, based on the Scripture the pastor has selected. We leave time to discuss implications of the Scripture for our own lives, and we often even delve into topics far afield of the morning's original topic. You are invited to bring some breakfast from Garton Hall into Room 11 and join the conversation.

Adult Sunday School, 9:15am
Nomads
The Nomads class will attend the FAITH & LIFE SERIES in Room 8 on Sunday, September 24.

Adult Sunday School, 9:15am 
Pilgrims
The Holy Land Revealed
A video lecture series with Prof. Jodi Magness, Univ. North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
All are welcome at any point in the lecture series. Come join us for the video and the resulting discussions.

Lecture 36-Sunday, September 24th :  
"What and How Archaeology Reveals" 
In this lecture series, Prof. Magness has shared her passion for archaeology and its long process of finding pieces of the puzzle and putting them together in order to better understand the past.
 
Archaeology is a scientific discipline which evolves over the course of time. Some of the most exciting directions in the future of archaeology are going to be the increasing use of technology for such things as three-dimensional virtual reconstruction of sites and DNA analysis of organic remains.
 
 
HURR ICANES HARVEY, IRMA & MARIA
FLOOD RELIEF & CLEAN-UP EFFORTS
The impact of hurricanes Harvey and Irma has been devastating. The United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR) responded immediately to both locations.  Pray for those who have been affected by these storms as well as for the early response teams, including countless volunteers.
 
It will take a long and sustained effort to help the areas fully recover. Presently, and from our vantage point, the most immediate way we can help is through financial assistance. If you can donate, checks can be made out to St. Mark's and put in the offering plate or sent to the church office. Please put in the memo UMCOR Flood Relief. 100% of all money donated will go directly to the children, women and men most in need.
 
To donate online and get continuing updates of the work of UMCOR with those affected by the hurricanes, follow this link:

AT ST. MARK'S UMC
 
Each Wednesday, 1:00pm-3:00pm
St. Mark's Quilters & Crafters
Bring your quilting or crafts to Room 10 and spend time with others who enjoy these activities. All skill levels are welcome and encouraged to attend.
 
Each Thursday, 6:15pm & 7:30pm
Chancel Ringers and Chancel Choir Rehearsals
Join one or both of these choirs and share your love of music. Playing handbells really only requires an ability to keep the rhythm of the music. All other bell ringing skills will be taught. Chancel Ringers rehearses at 6:15pm in the Sanctuary. Chancel Choir rehearsal follows at 7:30pm in the Choir Room. If you can sing a tune, you are encouraged to blend your voice with others in choir. 
Each Friday, 12:30pm, at Bell Trace
Conversations on Life Men's Group
During September the Conversations on Life men's group will be reading & discussing the last sections of Richard J. Foster's book Streams of Living Water.  In particular we will cover the sections "The Incarnation Tradition" with a focus on Susanna,  the mother of John & Charles Wesley, "Bezalel", the constructor of the Tabernacle and "Dag Hammarskjold", the secretary-general of the UN. The men will also discuss two of Foster's essays include in the book: "Critical Turning Points in Church History" and  "Notable Figures & Significant Movements in Church History". The group meets every Friday at 12:30pm in the private dining room, at the basement level on the west side of the main building of Bell Trace.Visitors are always welcomed.
Saturday, September 23rd, 5:00pm-8:00pm  
Parents' Night Out/Kid Pajama Party
St. Mark's Nursery School and Kindergarten will host this fundraising event at St. Mark's. Kids will enjoy playing on the playground, watching a movie, dancing to songs, and listening to stories all while in their favorite PJ's. Light snack will be provided. Money raised will go to the Outdoor Classroom Development Fund. $30 for first child/$10 for each additional sibling. Ages 1 year and older. Reserve your spot today! RSVP by September 20th to [email protected].    
 
 
Tuesday, September 26th, 6:30pm
Prayer Shawl Ministry  
Join this group in the Parlor of Garton Hall to enjoy knitting and crocheting as they make of prayer shawls and other yarn products. The prayer shawls are given to those who may be dealing with illness or loss and to those who might be celebrating a joyous event such as a birth in the family.  
 
Tuesday, September 26th, 7:00pm
Jail Bingo at Monroe County Jail Informational Meeting
Jail BINGO will begin again this fall. Jail BINGO was started by Wain Martin several years ago. Many from St. Mark's have participated in this ministry for those in Monroe County jail. David Meyer and Carle Crawford are working to restart this ministry and to extend the opportunity to additional faith communities. You can support this important ministry with your time as a BINGO caller, awarding prizes at the jail, and by donating items appreciated and enjoyed, such as candy bars, bars of soap, and deodorant. These items will be used as BINGO prizes. There will be an informational meeting at St. Mark's on Tuesday, September 26th at 7:00pm in Room 15.  All former Bingo volunteers and those interested are invited.  Please read David Meyer's letter "Jail BINGO:A Call to Faith Communities for Action"  to learn more.    
OCTOBER EVENTS COMING SOON 
Sundays in October
Operation Friendship Christmas Greenery Fundraiser
Support Operation Friendship and celebrate the holidays with beautiful greenery! One-stop shopping right here at St. Mark's where you can find a gift for family, friends, or business associates, be they in or out-of-town. The "Traditional Program" allows you to pick up your choices during the week of November 20th. The "Holiday Gift Program" pricing includes shipping costs and offers you an effortless way to have the symbols and fragrance of the season shipped to the recipient's doorstep. You may place your orders at the Operation Friendship table in Garton Hall every Sunday during the month of October. Phone or email orders may be placed up to November 1st. Call or email Jane Dunatchik (812-322-0554 or [email protected]) or call the church office.
To view product photos, go to www.ChristmasWreathProducts.org.
 
October 1st & 8th, 9:30am, Room 15
New Member Classes in OCTOBER
Are you interested in becoming a member of St. Mark's United Methodist Church? Perhaps you are undecided, and would just like to explore what membership would mean. If so, plan to attend our next set of membership classes at 9:30am on October 1 & 8 in Room 15. You will be able to meet some of the church's leaders, learn more about St. Mark's understanding of faith and mission, and explore where you could connect and invest yourself in our congregation. Email Jimmy Moore at [email protected] , or contact the church office, for more information or to indicate your intention to attend. Childcare will be provided, so please RSVP your childcare needs.
Saturday, October 7th, 8:30am-3:00 pm, at North United Methodist Church 
Creation Care Conference
The Creation Care Alliance of INUMC is hosting an interactive conference, at North United Methodist Church, 3808 N. Meridian St., Indianapolis, IN 46208. United Methodists and friends are invited to think and pray together about our call to be good stewards of God's creation.
 
Guest speakers include Rev. Katie Dawson of Immanuel United Methodist Church, (Iowa Conference), Professor Tim Eberhart of Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary, and Professor Tim Van Meter of Methodist Theological School in Ohio. Please register by October 5th. There is no cost to attend the event, A free will offering will be collected for lunch.
Register today:  http://bit.ly/creationcareconf 
 
Wednesday, October 4th, 6:00pm, St. Mark's South Lawn 
Pet Blessing
Our Buddies of St. Francis small group is sponsoring a pet blessing service at St. Mark's on Wednesday, August 4 (the birthday of St. Francis). All are invited to bring your furry and non-furry friends in carriers, cages or on leashes- and a bag for any pet messes. Your pets need to be up-to-date on their vaccinations, and not have an aggressive history with other pets or people. The service will not be long, but will be an opportunity to celebrate the pets that enrich our lives. You are welcome to invite friends and neighbors, and their pets, as well. If it rains, we will not hold the service that evening. For more information, contact Jimmy Moore at the church office (332-5788 or at [email protected].
 
Wednesday, October 4th, 7:00pm 
Appalachia Service Project (ASP) Meeting
A meeting for anyone interested in participating in or learning more about ASP will be held on Wednesday, October 4th, from 7:00pm to 7:45pm, at St Mark's UMC in Room 8. We will be answering questions anyone may have, discussing plans for next year's trip (Summer 2018) and providing required information for participants. If you have questions, please contact James Thomas at 812-361-8193. 
READ SEPTEMBER EDITION OF UPCOMING @ ST. MARK'S HERE
is published once each month as an information resource and guide to the activities and events within and around the St. Mark's church community. Copies are distributed the first Sunday of each month along with the Sunday worship bulletin, and thereafter are available at the Welcome Center Desk, at the main entrances to the building, or by contacting the church office.
SUBMITTING ARTICLES FOR FUTURE PUBLICATIONS
All ministry areas, church committees, and interest groups are encouraged to submit articles for the next edition of UPCOMING @ ST. MARK'S. Articles for October 2017 are due Monday, September 18th. For more information, and to submit articles for publication, please contact the church office.
ST. MARK'S UNITED METHODIST CHURCH STAFF E-MAIL
Rev. Jimmy Moore, Pastor
[email protected]
Rev. Mary Beth Morgan, Pastor
[email protected]
Gerry Sousa, Director of Music Ministries
[email protected]

Rev. Sarah Gettie McNeill, Director of Children's Ministries
[email protected]
Please contact Sarah Gettie McNeill for Youth Ministries.
Natalie LeBeau, Finance Director
[email protected]
Aaron Comforty, Children and Youth Music Leader  [email protected]
Sierra Roussos,
Director of St. Mark's Nursery School & Kindergarten [email protected]

Amy Jones,
Coordinator of Childcare and Sunday Morning Nursery
[email protected]
Claire Schaffer, Administrative Assistant
[email protected]

Dennis Morgan, Head Custodian
[email protected]

100 N. State Road 46 Bypass, Bloomington, IN 47408
Phone: 812-332-5788     Fax: 812-333-5544
Click for a map to our location: Directions to St. Mark's UMC
Click for St. Mark's Nursery School & Kindergarten website:
100 N. State Road 46 Bypass, Bloomington, IN 47408
School Office Phone: 812-333-4007
St. Mark's UMC Newsletter Sign Up
ST. MARK'S UMC ON FACEBOOK
St. Mark's United Methodist Church on Facebook
Like our Facebook page, St. Mark's United Methodist Church.
St. Mark's Parenting Facebook Group
Looking for ways to connect with other St. Mark's families in the church?  Join the St. Mark's Parenting Facebook page.  Direct questions to Sarah Gettie McNeill. 
Pets of St. Mark's UMC Community on Facebook  
Buddies of St. Francis, a small group at St. Mark's, celebrates our pets and supports the love and care of animals.