eNEWS Masthead Final           
Wednesday, September 18, 2013
 
Like us on Facebook   Follow us on Twitter    
N E W S  L I N K S
Craig Brown - 2013
Pastor Craig Brown
Alone Together     
Each year my family takes a week-long road trip to visit friends in Northern California and Oregon. We stay in homes and hotels. We drive almost 2,000 miles. Each year is a new adventure with new things to see and do.

For as long as I can remember, when we return home after this long trip, all four of us do the same thing. We isolate. It is true. There can be too much of a good thing. After we unpack and settle down, we go in four different directions to just be alone. Solitude is hard fought during those seven days, so home offers each of some quiet time alone... each in our own room.

There are moments in life when alone is attractive and quite helpful. However, that choice to be alone is just that: a choice. Many people are alone by virtue of circumstance or situation. Others are alone by a choice that is not their own.

Alienation and estrangement can happen even in crowds of people. This experience is likely the most hurtful of all. No one likes to be left out. Zaccheus had that very same problem. He was marginalized and excluded due to his profession. He lacked the power of community. Jesus' visit to his home that day long ago in Jericho would change his life forever.

Who do you know that, not by choice, is alone? What can you do to extend the hand of community to those who need it most?

Craig+

Worship WORSHIP

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 18, 2013
VESPER COMMUNION | 5:30 PM | Sanctuary | Rev. Jason Constantine
Music for Meditation begins at 5:15 | Free childcare by RSVP - Reserve here
Wednesday Night Dinner & Study
6 PM dinner, sign-up info | 6:45-8:15 PM | Linder Hall | Classes ...
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 22, 2013

Luke 19:1-10  |  Life. Fulfilled. Lonliness -> Community  |  Daily Devotional
TRADITIONAL  8 ~ 9:30 ~ 11 | Sanctuary | BAPTISM | Rev. Craig Brown.
NON-TRADITIONAL
Water's Edge | 9:30 | The Cove, United Methodist Center | Rev. Elbert Kim | Band
CHILDREN'S SUNDAY SCHOOL | 9:20 | Meet in Trotter Chapel
The children meet in the Chapel at 9:20 and are escorted to their Sunday School classrooms.
Pick-up is in the amphitheater at 10:30. Read Pastor Jessica's weekly message
CHAPEL COMMUNION | 10:40 | Trotter Chapel
This Sunday, September 22. BAPTISM for infants and young children in all sactuary services.Baptism
If you are interested in having a child baptized call Demmie in the church office at 619-297-4366, ext. 108, or email her at [email protected].
 wednesdayWEDNESDAY!
Vespers
M O R N I N G
10:30 AM - Pastor's Bible Study | Linder Lounge 
E V E N I N G
5:15 PM - Vespers Sanctuary | Music for meditation | Communion 
6 PM - Dinner ($6)  Linder Hall  |  RSVP to the office 619-297-4366 by Mon.
6:30 PM - Shaping Your Family's Future | Linder Hall 2
6:45 PM - Pastor's Bible Study | Linder Hall 
healthHEALTH
Male Caregiver Conference
For Male Family Caregivers:
Batter Up! Getting into the Game of Caregiving
Friday, September 20 |  9 AM - 1 PM  |  Linder Hall  |  Free
One-third of family caregivers are male and this number is rapidly rising! If you are a male, providing care to or are concerned about an adult family member or friend, then attend this free event sponsored by the Caregiver Coalition of San Diego. Register at 800-827-1008. More details here... 
classCLASSES
Sunday, September 22 | 11 AM - 12 PM | Linder Lounge | Free
Parents and students (grades 10-12 will learn about college financial aid and types of financial assistance available. Find out how you can pay for college.
Presented by First Church member Frank Jonasson, Ed.M., who will share his knowledge and be available to answer your questions. RSVP online...
Alpha - Go ahead, ask the big questions. 

If you ask the big questions of life, then come and bring a friend to Alpha. Register now! The Launch Party/Dinner is next Wednesday, September 25, and the course begins Wednesday, October 2, (and goes through November 13) with dinner at 6 PM; video and table discussions ending at 8 PM. On November 2 there will be a "Stay" Retreat. You don't want to miss it.

Learn more about Alpha and register online... 

College Application Seminar for Students and Parents
Sunday, September 29 | 11 AM - 12 PM | Linder Lounge

Applying to colleges? Become familiar with the process and what is required by colleges. Students: what do you need to know about the SATs and ACTs? What do colleges look for in applications? Parents: how can you be supportive of your child applying? Grace Kim (pastor Elbert's wife) will explain how students and parents can successfully navigate the college application process. Currently teaching AP Chemistry at Coronado High School, Grace has tutored and guided students applying to colleges for the past 15 years. Come and learn what it takes to successfully apply. For more information, Elbert Kim.

null
Sowing for the Future Harvest
Sunday, October 6 | 11 AM - 12 PM | Linder Lounge

Don't miss this opportunity to consider the Scripture's call to stewardship and the planned giving tools available to help you achieve this goal. Planned giving tools that provide the donor with lifetime income will be included.

 

The Endowment Development Committee invites you to join the Rev. Greg Batson, President/CEO of the California-Pacific United Methodist Foundation, as he introduces: Wills/Bequests, IRA Charitable Rollovers, Charitable Gift Annuities, and Charitable Remainder Trusts.

 

Refreshments will be served and there will be time to visit with the speaker informally following the presentation should you have additional questions. RSVP here ... 
SAandJSA&J 
Social Action & Justice Sunday, September 29  Social Action & Justice
Visit our Faith in Action Fair on this Sunday, 9 AM - 12:30 PM, to learn about new volunteer opportunities: mentoring, tutoring, and other outreach projects. We will have information about volunteer opportunities: Everyone A Reader, Shoes that Fit, Caring for our Neighbors, Interfaith Shelter, AIDS Ministry, Neighborhood Meal, Teen Moms Life Skills Conference, and more. We'll have some of our Community Partner Agencies here to talk about our partnerships with these organizations and volunteer opportunities: International Rescue Committee, METRO, Big Brothers Big Sisters, Monarch School, CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate), and Girls on the Run.
MissionMISSION
Sandy Damage
First Church Volunteers Join NY-Sandy Relief Mission Team
District Big Band Jazz Fundraiser: Monday, Sept. 30, 7-8 PM | Linder Hall
Tickets ($10/adult, $5/child) at the door or on sale Sunday, Sept. 29
The South District UMC New York - Sandy Relief Mission Team departs October 5 for a week-long work trip helping communities affected by hurricane Sandy. First Church Team members include: Marjory Clyne, Brooke Collins, Kurt Dahlvig and Jeremy Silva. Please keep these and the 16 other volunteers in your prayers. Each team member has paid a portion of the trip cost. To help defray costs, all are invited to hear Rey Vinole's Big Band and sample hors d'oeurves and desserts, $10/adult, $5/child, more info here ...  For trip details, read here ...
MusicMUSIC
Wednesday, September 25 | 6:45 PM | Sutherland Music Center | Led by Stan Wicks
How did the Lutherans, at the beginning on the Protestant Reformation sing "A Mighty Fortress"? Join us to find out! We will explore the great line of Lutheran hymnody from the beginning of the Reformation until the present. Experience how this shaped the Protestant movement, made an impact on the Wesley brothers at the beginning of Methodism, and continues into the 21st century. Many of the hymns (or chorales as they were originally named) will be familiar to you!
Ron Banks Vocalist Ron Banks Headlines September 29 Pops Concert
Sunday, September 29 | 7 PM | Linder Hall
The Cultural Events Committee's fall concert season will get underway with Ron Banks performing "Bass-Baritone Boffo Broadway Bonanza." This annual pops concert will feature a singer who is familiar to many at First Church, having served as the Chancel Choir bass soloist and section leader at the beginning of an avocation that has blossomed into a full-blown musical theater career. Pianist Diane Snodgrass will serve as accompanist. The Musical Merit Foundation of Greater San Diego is co-sponsoring this event for their former scholarship award winner, and a "welcome back" reception will be held for Ron following the performance. A donation will be collected at the door and child care is available by contacting the church office in advance. Read in-depth here...  
SDSCSSDSCS
Visualizing Social Justice
Visualizing Social Justice: A Juried Photography Exhibition
Saturday, September 28 | Trotter Chapel & Linder Hall 

Exhibition Opening and Reception, 4-5 PM  

You are invited to the opening and reception of this exhibition that bears witness to social justice and realities of hope -- juried by professionals at the Museum of Photographic Art in San Diego's Balboa Park. Images will be on display in Trotter Chapel and an artists' reception will take place in Linder Hall. Then, stay for the program and lecture from 5-7 PM focusing on the practice of social justice, see below. 

null
Rev. Dr. Art Cribbs
Exec. Director of CLUE-California (Clergy and Laity United for Economic Justice)
Faith Out Front: Putting into Practice Social Justice Ministry
Saturday, September 28 | 5-7 PM | Linder Hall
Tuition: $10 -- Register here
Free for students and those who submitted photographs 
There is a reason the religious leaders called into question Jesus' authority. Jesus had no known record of having attended an accredited university or seminary. He did not belong to an official, recognized religious order with standing of ordination. Jesus lived his faith publicly. Today, followers of Jesus continue to put our Faith Out Front. Rev. Cribbs will present a perspective on practical Christianity that integrates the Gospel and our daily lives as a means of giving purpose to who we are, what we believe, and the way we publicly practice our faith. 
fundraiserFUNdRAISER
null
"The Bunnell Strings
are a must-see," says
Spring Fling Chair,
Carol LeBeau.
Join us for an evening with the Bunnell Strings!
The featured entertainment at this year's FUNdraiser!
Saturday, October 5 | 5 - 7 PM | Linder Hall.

This energetic string quintet of siblings returns to First Church, following their well-received performance at the Spring Fling earlier this year.
You will be thrilled by their music and touched by their story of faith, family and music.The Bunnell family quintet transforms classical, pop, and rock genres with their crossover blend of styles.

Tickets are $30 each and are available online here... or purchase them Sundays on the patio or in the church office week days.
This is an event you and your friends don't want to miss!
F5F5
F5  -> FAITH
FUN | FELLOWSHIP | FOLLOW | FRIENDS
<- Are you looking to connect in worship of God?
Come and see on Sunday, October 13, at 5 PM.
Like us on Facebook 
ChildrenCHILDREN
null
Fall Festival Seeking Fun Booth Sponsors!

The Children's Ministry is asking all FUMC-affiliated groups to sponsor a booth. Families can lead crafts or games, too! All are welcome to join in the fun. Sponsors provide the raw materials and supervision for the booth. Prizes will be provided by the Children's Ministry and distributed among the various booths. Last year, we had over 400 people participate!

 

If you want to help, but are short on inspiration, contact Pastor Jessica for ideas. Individuals can help in the kitchen or with decorating. Please contact us by October 6.      

WomenWOMEN
Women's Fall Retreat
Saturday, October 26 | 9 AM - 3:30 PM | Linder Hall
Come be refreshed for your journey as we hear from Jane Rubietta, our guest speaker! Registration is $45 per person.
Bring your BFF!
 Register here...
pilgrimagePILGRIMAGE
null
Pastor Craig Brown to Lead Pilgrimage to
Christian England and Scotland in October of 2014
Make your advance plans now to join Pastor Craig and others from First Church on a life-changing Pilgrimage to England and Scotland. Pastor Craig is planning now to lead a group from our church for an exploration of our Celtic and Wesleyan roots. In the months of October, November and December of this year, Pastor Craig will host several informational gatherings about the pilgrimage and how to sign up for this powerful experience. These informational gatherings will be all held in The Cove from 12:15-1:15 each Sunday. Make plans to join in one of these gatherings on October 27, November 10, and December 15.
 gatheringsGATHERINGS
LAST CHANCE! NEIGHBORHOOD GATHERINGS FOR CRAIG & FAMILY  

Come and meet Pastor Craig Brown and family at the last Neighborhood Gatherings! Each gathering is from 3 - 5 PM:

  1. Saturday, September 21: home of Lynette Williamson, 6703 Parkside Ave. Bonita, National City, Paradise Hills 92139
  2. Sunday, September 22: home of Doug & Vera Stanfield, 15373 Avenida Rorras, Rancho Bernardo 92128

If you would like to attend a gathering please RSVP with the date of the gathering to Demmie Divine, 619-297-4366 x108.    

NoticesNOTICES
Friday Night Singles (50+ or -) meets every Friday at 6 PM for a meal followed by various activities. Email Karen Maczka or call 619-263-3743.

Real Men ChristCare group meets this Thursday, September 19, in Linder Hall 4 from 6:30-8 PM.
The lesson is on attitude adjustment. The Scriptures are 1 John 1:1 - 2:1, Hebrews 12:1-13, and James 1:1-18.

New-Acolyte Training will be conducted on Saturday, September 28, from 9-11 AM. A guided tour of the sanctuary symbols will be included. Candidates who missed the sign-up can participate by calling Ron De Fields, Acolyte Coordinator, 619-461-5457.

Ralph's Rewards Card for Missions - By registering your Ralph's Rewards Card, Ralph's will contribute to our Missions ministries at First Church. You can register at www.ralphs.com, begin by selecting the "Create an Account" button and follow the prompts. Be sure to designate The First United Methodist Church of San Diego #82033 to receive the funds from your shopping. If you already participate, you must renew each year by registering at the same website. Sign-in and follow the prompts.

Our "Just a Little Gift" Shop" is open every Sunday before and after services from 9 AM-12:30 PM. It is located below the sanctuary, through the sanctuary meeting room (behind the Christ window).

Free Neighborhood Family Meal: Next meal is on Monday, September 30, 5:30-7 PM. Help provide and serve food and enjoy fellowship with families, teens, seniors and people in need of a nutritious, hot meal at Normal Heights UMC, 4650 Mansfield St. Volunteers prepare and bring a main dish, salad or dessert. Email Brenda Blake or call 619-297-4366 x125, to sign up.

Prayers & Squares Prayer Quilt Ministry meets twice a month. For our next meeting, see our 2013 schedule.

The 2013 Altar Flower Calendar has openings for Sundays in September and October. Please help us fill those dates. Call Eleene in the church office at 619-297-4366 to make your reservation. Each bouquet is $50.

Fall Prevention Awareness Week, Sept 22-28: The County of San Diego's Fall Prevention Task Force has planned six events in locations around the County to educate older adults and caregivers on how to prevent falls. Locations include downtown San Diego, Chula Vista, La Mesa, Carlsbad, Poway, and Vista. Each event will feature dynamic speakers, balance screenings, and exhibitors with local resources. All events are free - register by calling the Southern Caregiver Resource Center at 1-800-827-1008.

You are invited to celebrate the appointment of Rev. John Farley as District Superintendent of the South District on Sunday, October 6, at San Dieguito UMC, 170 Calle Magdalena, in Encinitas.

3 PM service in sanctuary, catered reception follows at 4. 

 

Save the Date:
  • Financial Peace University returns with a fall session beginning October 16. Preview the course on Sunday, October 6, 10:45 AM-12 PM, Linder Hall 2 (childcare available).
  • DivorceCare� Support Group Sundays, October 27-January 19, 11-12 PM, Linder Hall 5.
  • Flights of Fancy Recital, Sunday, October 27, 7 PM. Organist Bob Plimpton teams up with cellist Aaron Bullard for this Cultural Events Music Series presentation. 
eNEWS, the official newsletter of First United Methodist Church of San Diego, is published every Wednesday.
To submit an article for consideration, send to [email protected]
by the Wednesday of the week prior to publication



2111 CAMINO DEL RIO S. IN MISSION VALLEY | 619-297-4366 | WWW.FUMCSD.ORG