1st United Methodist Church Weekly Update - July 23, 2021 |
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FOLLOW US & JOIN US THIS SUNDAY FOR WORSHIP LIVE AT 9:15 & 11 AM
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In 2021, 1st Church has received $56,000 less than needed for the first 6 months of the year. Giving to our operating budget (1st Church Support) is down by $35,000 compared to last year, while returning to many of our ministries post-Covid has created expenses that are $21,000 greater than 2020.
Yes, $56,000 less for worship, Bible studies, utilities, and salaries. That is $56,000 less for the foundational ministries of your church.
Your generosity, plus the government’s PPP loan (which became a grant), helped us survive 2020. Yet, while we have reduced expenses, cut the number of staff, and reduced the hours of other staff, it is not enough for this year. This must change before it affects the foundational ministries of our church!
Would you pray—then reach a little deeper—to increase your giving to 1st Church Support? Might God lead you to give a 2nd mile gift this summer in addition to your regular giving to the operating budget? In addition, would it be impossible for you to consider increasing your giving for the second half of 2021?
We know that there are many demands on your pocketbook these days. Please place the work of your church high on the list of your priorities.
We thank you for the generosity you have already displayed, and all you do for Christ and His work through us! Pray with us that God will continue to use us and make us faithful.
Your 1st Church Finance Team
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Renewal Leave for Pastor Mike |
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Following 2 weeks of vacation, Pastor Mike will be taking a 4-week Renewal Leave. Pastors in the United Methodist Church are encouraged to take renewal leave for the purpose of refreshing and renewing themselves, physically, spiritually, and emotionally. This has been approved by the Steering Team, and the Staff-Parish Relations Team of 1st Church, along with the approval of the SouthWest District Superintendent.
In addition to leading us in worship, Pastor Bob will be available for pastoral needs. Administrative issues can be addressed by Kathy Butgereit.
Mike will be unavailable by phone or email until he returns to the office on September 7th. Thank you for honoring this time for Mike to rest and renew.
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Our Website has a NEW Look |
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The NEW 1st Church website has been launched! We are still in the progress of updating current information, so patience while it is under construction is very much appreciated.
Be sure to check it out!
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Just a reminder that Today Matters Mental Health Ministry is not meeting in July. Please join us back on August 21 for our special guest, Tina Levene. She will be signing books at 3 pm and the program will begin at 4 pm.
Tina Levene is a speaker, radio and TV host, and author. Her personal story is nothing short of miraculous healing from abuse and addictions. She brings humor, energy, and laughter with relevant content that can be used to transform lives.
Tina’s Best Selling books include: Let Your Lessons Become Blessings, Let Your Forgiveness Become Freedom, Little Book, Big Truths!, Preventing Burn-Out, and Heartbeat of a Leader.
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Dear Church FAMILY,
Words cannot express the outpouring of support we, the United Christian Women, have received from out Church FAMILY for our June Bakeless Bake Sale. The over $1,650 in donations brought joy to our hearts. This level of generosity contributed to support of many of the charitable organizations we have helped in the past, which include Crossroads, Jesus Loves You, Young Life, Meals on Wheels, Homeless Coalition, Center for Abuse (C.A.R.E.), just to name a few.
Just think of the number of calories, burnt fingers and time we have saved you so that you may help others!
Y’all are Awesome! May you be Blessed, as you have Blessed others.
2 Corinthians 9:11, NIV: “You will be enriched in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God.”…And when we take your gifts to those who need them, they will thank God.”
With Heartfelt Appreciation,
United Christian Women
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Food Pantry Coming to 1st Church |
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Bountiful Blessings of the Charlotte County Food Pantry will be partnering with 1st Church each Friday beginning July 16th from 11:00 am - 1:00 pm to distribute food in our parking lot. They currently feed about 100 families each week and they are excited to be able to use our church parking lot to reach more families. All of the food is provided by the Harry Chapin Food Bank. Please help us spread the word to those that may have a need. |
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Bargain Boutique, July Vacation |
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The Bargain Boutique will be closed for the month of July. Summer activities abound for our volunteers at the Bargain Boutique. We are ready to go on long awaited family reunions, catching up with old friends back home, that trip we had to cancel is just around the corner. Tickets are purchased, bags are packed and the Bargain Boutique is going on vacation! We will re-open August 2 and begin accepting donations July 26. |
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It was an amazing 24/10 prayer time at 1st Church. The blessings from the time with God moved so many people who were fortunate to get a slot for praying. We will now continue our prayer room with "Pray until..." We are extending the opportunity for this prayer room experience, to watch God do amazing things.
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Greetings 1st Church friends,
As everyone knows, to say we've had a rainy July is an understatement! As a result of actual rain and/or wet, muddy grassy areas, we haven't been able to celebrate Praise in the Park for the past couple of weeks. So remember, an option is to join us in the sanctuary for that day's service. Of course, the 9:15 or 11:00 services are open also as an alternative.
It is with sadness that I inform you of the passing of Marjorie Rhodes. Marge was a longtime member of 1st Church and Barb Bryant circle.
I want to share an experience I've had recently. I don't know about anyone else but when I don't feel my best, I seem to let fear, anxiety, and worry creep into my day. My initial reaction is to doubt myself -- as in "who am I and how can I ever encourage anyone else". However, with my prayer life increasing, and God's love filling me with hope, I've learned to open my heart and my ears and listen to His loving voice. Psalm 94:19 "When anxiety was great within me, Your consolation brought joy to my soul ". So, 2 weeks ago, after one of these down and troubling times, and lots of prayer, I decided I needed to share the blessings of my faith. Don had just had his first cataract surgery, and when it was time for his postop appointment, I felt I should see how the Holy Spirit might work through me. I took 3 gift bags of cookies from our Thank-you ministry along with an invite to 1st Church. The physician and nurse were very excited and thankful for the treats. The 3rd gift bag went to the young man who schedules appointments in the ophthalmology department at the VA. He was appreciative of the treats but kept talking about church and what a great gift this was. I told him I would be praying for him. Today we returned for another visit- this is the scripture I read today, " I pray that you may be active in sharing your faith, so that you will have a full understanding of every good thing we have in Christ." Philemon 6. We had a lovely conversation about faith and God and how he was touched by us (not us, but Him). Before we left he asked if we could pray together. My heart is full. Thank you God for all these blessings!
I'm praying for you!
Rosie Young
Worship Coordinator
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The Eighth Note – Music Ministry in a Minute! |
Greetings Everyone,
I’m excited to announce that we have a digital Rehearsal Calendar available on the church’s new website located under the Music Ministries webpage. So if there is ever a question when we are meeting for rehearsal you can check this Rehearsal Calendar anytime and anywhere!
Mark your calendars (…I ALREADY HAVE)….!!! The Chancel Choir will resume rehearsals this fall starting on Thursday, September 9, 2021 at 6:30 PM. Our first Sunday back singing at the 11:00 AM service will be on September 12 in our new robes.
Some of you might be wondering what has changed to allow the return of the Chancel Choir. The CDC has recently updated its guidance saying that it is safe for fully vaccinated people to sing in an indoor chorus. As we chart our course back to the normal rhythms of life don’t forget to be kind, patient, and respectful with those who might be feeling anxious about plunging back into activities. When we return to choir things might be different, but I am confident and hopeful for the future music ministry of First United Methodist Church and you should be too. Grace and peace to you all.
Important Dates
- September 8, 2021 – 6:30 PM Chancel Ringers rehearsals resume in Life Center
- September 9, 2021 – 6:30 PM Chancel Choir rehearsals resume in Sanctuary
- September 12, 2021 – 11:00 AM First Sunday Chancel Choir is back singing
Soli Deo Gloria!
David Bellows
Director of Music Ministries
This Sunday’s Music: July 25, 2021 - 11:00AM Service
Prelude: Aria – C. Tambling
Opening Hymn: 133 Leaning On The Everlasting Arms
Offertory: Standing On The Promises Of God – S. Eithun; Chancel Ringers and David Bellows, Director
Closing Hymn: 377 It Is Well With My Soul
Postlude: Trumpet Tune in D Major - D. Johnson
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Discipleship Opportunities |
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Seekers Sunday School Class |
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The Seekers Sunday School class will begin a new 8-week Bible study on Sunday, July 25. This study will explore “A FIRM FOUNDATION,” a resourceful text focusing on Methodism and what the future holds for the United Methodist Church. You are all welcome to join us at our new time, 9:30 -10:30 am in Room 9. Books can be purchased for $10 at the church office or in the Life Center on Sunday. |
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We welcome all who would like to participate in the study “Is Genesis History”, starting Monday, September 13, at 9:45-11:00 am at First United Methodist Church, Room 13. At the end of the study, it is hopeful that you will better understand what the first few chapters of the Bible have to do with God’s plan for salvation. The study book can be purchased thru Amazon for $10. You will only need the book, no DVD. Contact Cathy Smith at cmsmith8@msn.com for any questions.
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2021 Bible Reading Schedules |
We want to encourage you to join us as we once again read through the Bible. Reading calendars are available for download and printing on our website, whatis1st.com/bible2021, and hard copies are available in the Life Center. Start your new year off right by committing to read God's Word!
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Worship Service Information |
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This Sunday: July 25, 2021 |
Message: "The Healing Power of God's Forgiveness"
Pastor Bob Carlson
8:00 am Praise in the Park | 9:15 am Contemporary | 11:00 am Traditional
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If you are planning on attending our services please remember the following:
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Masks are now optional for those that are fully vaccinated.
- Social distancing is still encouraged. Families may sit together, but please leave three seats between you and others not in your family.
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If you are feverish or not feeling well, we ask that you stay home and join us online on our Facebook and YouTube channels.
At this time, you may only enter the Life Center through the main entrance facing the Fellowship Hall courtyard. All other exterior doors will be locked. We'll see you Sunday!
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Join us this Sunday at 8 am for Praise in the Park! Open to everyone, this is your opportunity to join us for "in-person" worship as we enjoy God's scenery from the lawn of the beautiful Gilchrist Park Pavilion, weather permitting of course. The rainy season is here! If it is or has been raining, Praise in the Park will relocate to our historic Sanctuary. Time may not always be sufficient to get the word out, so in case of inclement weather, please proceed to the Sanctuary.
Please plan to bring your lawn chairs and/or blankets, and, yes, we will be asking you to practice social distancing. Don't forget to join our "Praise in the Park" group on our Church App! As a reminder, our outside services are always subject to change due to the weather. Please make sure you are connected with us through the app, our email list, or social media to receive our updates concerning schedule changes. See you Sunday for Praise in the Park!
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Online Worship Hosts Needed |
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Do you have a smart phone or computer?
We are in need of volunteers to serve as hosts during our online Sunday Worship Services. Hosts are responsible to greet our viewers, answer questions and provide information about our church app, online giving and prayer team in the chat area -- both on our Facebook broadcast and YouTube channel. Training will be provided. If you are interested, please call Gail at 941-639-3842.
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FOLLOW US & JOIN US THIS SUNDAY FOR WORSHIP LIVE AT 9:15 & 11 AM
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Office Hours: Monday - Thursday, 9am - 4pm
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