Below you'll find upcoming events, helpful information, and mission highlights for the West Ohio Conference and Maumee River District. Please visit our website using the link below for additional resources and info. | | Maumee River District Grants | | |
Maumee River District
United Women in Faith
2025 Fall Annual Day
The Maumee River District United Women of Faith will be meeting on Saturday, November 8th for their Fall Annual Day. They would love for you to join them at Howard United Methodist Church, 220 Cherry St, Findlay, Ohio. They are collecting travel size personal hygiene items for the Howard Church Outreach. Registration ends November 3rd.
Registration Form
September Newsletter
| | Hope Letters Training & Information Session | | |
Elliston Zion UMC (18045 W William St. Graytown, Ohio) will be hosting its first HOPE LETTERS Training and Information Session on Tuesday, October 7th at 9:30 AM at the church. Jami Nathan, Training and Ministries Coordinator for All-In Community will be traveling to Elliston to provide this training. Our Purpose: To give hope through regular correspondence to people who are incarcerated. Our letters offer encouragement, non-judgmental companionship and a listening ear to a person imprisoned at state correctional institution. Our intention is to meet as a group at Elliston Zion on a monthly basis on the last Tuesday of the month at 9:30 AM. Please join us in this mission of compassion and hope!
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You are invited to Frankly Speaking with one of our formerly incarcerated speakers this Tuesday, October 7, at 7:00 p.m. This coming Saturday our speakers are participating together in a retreat and they will be planning what they think is necessary and good for you to hear and know.
They are our teachers and witnesses of how incarceration impacts their lives for years after they are released. They help us understand how we can assist others, including families, grow strong. So, this Tuesday we are calling our speaker, "Speaker Surprise". Not sure who it will be because they are deciding that this week. See you Tuesday, for Frankly Speaking, 7:00-8:00 p.m.
Zoom link: https://wocumc.zoom.us/j/86240001092
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Baked Steak Supper
The McClure United Methodist Baked Steak Supper season continues on Friday, October 10, serving from 5:00- 6:30. The menu is Baked Steak, Mashed Potatoes & Gravy, Harvard Beets, Green Beans, Corn, Dinner Rolls, Dessert & Drink, for a donation of $10 or more. Carry outs will be available. The church is located at 430 South East Street in McClure. The phone number is 419-748-8505. Follow this event at https://www.facebook.com/McClureumchurch.
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Trinity United Methodist Church is having a Craft Fair and needs some vendors!
When: Saturday, November 1, 2025 - 10:00 am to 4:00 pm
Optional: Sunday, November 2, 2025 – after church – no additional charge
Where: Trinity United Methodist Church, 200 N. Summit St., Bowling Green, OH 43402
Time: Set-up: Oct. 31, 2025: 7:00 - 8:00 pm and/or Nov. 1, 2025: 8:30 - 10:00 am
Space: You may bring your own tables or display cases but tables (approx. 8 ft.) will be provided. Table coverings are recommended to provide a hidden spot for containers and personal items.
Fee: $35.00 per space is payable to Trinity United Methodist Church. Free drinks and snacks will be available throughout the day for vendors. No additional fee for Sunday vendors.
Please contact the church office for Registration Form. Church office is open Monday – Friday, 9 am to 12 pm. Call or text Ruth Ann Kramer at 419-308-7799 with questions.
| | Epworth UMC Furniture Ministry | | The Furniture Ministry of Epworth could use some help from others in the district. They have a warehouse in Perrysburg where distribution takes place on the 3rd Saturday of each month. Those who receive have to be referred to the ministry from an agency. They would welcome any donations that your churches/the district churches would have. What they are really looking for though are some strong volunteers that can help to load the furniture. if you have any questions, please reach out to Holly at 567-694-3710. | | West Ohio Camp Receives Refreshed Look, New Branding | |
Over the past year, the Interim Camp Wesley Coordinating Council has been hard at work preparing our camp and retreat ministry in Bellefontaine, Ohio, to reopen for the 2026 summer camping season. The council includes lay and clergy members from across the West Ohio Conference, representing the Board of Trustees, Council on Finance and Administration, Transformative Discipleship, the United Methodist Foundation of West Ohio, the Connectional Table, Emerging Generations, and Camp and Retreats. Co-led by Rev. Joe Ziraldo and Rev. Paula Stewart, with staff support from Rev. Ann Marie Carley, the team has been focused on ensuring that proceeds from the camp sale are invested wisely. Their efforts are making possible a $3 million renovation to the property.
When it reopens in 2026, the site will feature a refreshed look, including a clean and safe lake, new restrooms in the dining hall, and a modern water filtration system providing drinking water throughout the property.
In addition, the council developed a marketing and messaging plan that includes rebranding the site as the Wesley Camp and Retreat Center. This new name reflects both its history and its future vision. The rebranding comes with a new logo, social media presence and a soon-to-be-launched website.
A new full-time position was created to oversee property maintenance with Tom Baker as the Maintenance and Facilities Coordinator. Tom, who previously served as Wesley’s part-time maintenance person, brings valuable experience and has been managing the remodeling project since March.
| | Rev. Abby Lightle to Lead Wesley Camp & Retreat Center | | |
The Interim Camp Wesley Coordinating Council is thrilled to welcome the Rev. Abby J. Lightle as its first director. She begins her role at the end of October, bringing a unique blend of classroom teaching, pastoral leadership and a deep love for connecting people with God and one another.
“I have experienced the power of camps and retreats, and I am excited to help rebuild and reimagine what camping and retreat ministry can look like in the West Ohio Conference,” Lightle said.
Since 2019, Lightle has served at Aley United Methodist Church as pastor of outreach and family life, guiding mission and outreach, youth, children and family ministries. Before entering ministry, she spent eight years as a high school science teacher and coach skills that continue to fuel her passion for faith formation and mentoring the next generation.
Ordained as a deacon in 2022, Lightle is also an avid sports fan (Reds, Padres, Bengals and Buckeyes) who enjoys reading, exploring new places and spending time with family and friends.
“I envision Wesley Camp and Retreat Center as a safe place for all people to experience connection with God, self, others and creation,” she said. “I believe that by honoring effective traditions and creating new opportunities, it will be a Spirit-filled place where deep, long-lasting, wide connections are built. I am looking forward to working with others throughout the conference to develop Wesley Camp and Retreat Center as a hub of meaningful connection that works in partnership with local congregations,” she added.
Lightle’s leadership marks a new chapter for Wesley Camp and Retreat Center as it prepares for a full camp relaunch in 2026. The camp schedule will be released in November, and hiring will begin soon for 30 summer staff members to help welcome 100 campers each week.
| | Announcing The New Framework For Leadership | | |
The Leadership Development Team of the West Ohio Conference of The United Methodist Church is excited to introduce the new Framework for Leadership, a spiritually grounded and mission-driven model designed to guide leaders in their journey of personal growth, relational leadership, and community impact.
Rooted in Wesleyan values and responsive to the evolving needs of our congregations and ministries, this framework offers a holistic approach to leadership—one that nurtures the heart, equips the mind, and strengthens the hands of those called to serve.
Click here to read more
| | Winter Summit Provides Space to Discern Your Call | | |
Exploring a call to ministry can be overwhelming for some. The Winter Candidacy Summit Retreat is a time to discern and explore God’s call on your life. During the Retreat, scheduled for January 9-10, 2026, candidates will worship, fellowship, meet with their mentoring group, learn in large and small group settings, and reflect with others exploring God's call on their lives.
Candidates may start by reviewing the ‘West Ohio Candidacy Summit Process Candidate Step-by-Step guide’ and discussing the process with District Superintendent, Rev. Amy Haines. Click here to learn more/register
| | Laity Sunday 2025: Be Strong in the Spirit | | |
Laity Sunday is a special observance in the United Methodist Church that celebrates the ministry of all Christians, emphasizing that everyone is called to participate in God's mission. It is traditionally observed on the third Sunday in October (this year, October 19th) and serves as a reminder of the vital role that laypersons play in the church and community.
Ministries of the laity include lay leaders, lay servants, Sunday school teachers, small group Bible study leaders, deaconesses, home missioners, and other significant forms of ministry.
For the 2025 to 2028 quadrennium, the theme is "Together By Grace," with a specific focus for 2025 on "Be Strong in the Spirit" (Ephesians 3:16). This theme encourages laypersons to embrace their spiritual strength and actively engage in ministry. Click here for resources provided by Discipleship Ministries.
| | Adult VBS held at Edon UMC | | Members of Edon and Melbern UMC - a newly formed 2 point charge - recently came together for an Adult Vacation Bible School. The group met over 5 consecutive evenings to sing songs, play games - ranging from a “search a word” on Spiritual Gifts to figuring out what historical character they were by asking yes or no questions. (Some characters, like Mary the mother of Jesus, were easy to figure out … John Wesley was a little tricky … and hymn writer Fanny Crosby needed plenty of clues!) Our main topic consisted of 5 lessons about the Holy Spirit using a study written as part of Rev. Dr. Doug Widdowson’s Doctoral work. Each evening ended with snacks — including “adult beverages” … decaf coffee and iced tea - generously prepared by several participants. Now we just need to decide on a topic for next years Adult VBS, since we have had several requests to do it again next year! | | Please send any Celebrations or special ministry stories that you would like to share with the District. | | A Very Special Presentation on Our Methodist Heritage | | |
We are privileged to have David Worthington, the UMC’s Global Ambassador of Methodist Heritage Sites, join us on Monday, October 13th, 2:00 – 4:00 pm, at the West Ohio Conference Center in Worthington, Ohio. David is visiting the United States from England, and he will be sharing 'Wisdom from the Past, Hope for the Future - A Methodist Heritage Story.'
David was appointed by the UMC General Commission of Archives and History as the Global Ambassador of Methodist Heritage Sites. He is committed to continuing the work begun by John and Charles Wesley in England nearly three hundred years ago as he believes their story, and that of the early Methodist movement, remains as relevant today as it did in the 18th century.
Please share this information with others who would enjoy learning more about John and Charles Wesley and our Methodist Heritage, and plan to join us for his presentation and a time of questions and answers at the West Ohio Conference Center, 32 Wesley Blvd., Worthington, Ohio.
Preregistration here is appreciated but not required.
| | Early Response Team training – Nov. 8 | | |
The eight hour basic class ERT training will teach you how to assist survivors of natural disasters in their time of need. You will learn how to provide a Christian presence while taking steps to prevent further damage to the family's personal property; this may include tarping, debris removal, cleaning out flooded homes, etc. FEMA recognizes this training to enter a disaster scene. The recertification class will end around 1:00pm and is only for those who have completed the basic course and are within one year of the date their badge expired. Cost is $40 for the basic class; $35 for recertification.
For more information or to register, CLICK HERE
| | Free 2026 Worship Calendar Bundle Digital Download | | |
2026 Worship Planning Calendar
The full planning calendar for each Sunday in 2025, as well as special days and times throughout the year. Helpful for pastors, worship leaders and planners, musicians, choirs, committees, Sunday School teachers, and more. 12-page, 8-1/2″ X 11″ printable PDF calendar in month-at-a-glance format.
2026 Revised Common Lectionary Sundays and Special Days Calendar
This two-page PDF lists the Revised Common Lectionary (RCL) readings and liturgical colors is one of Discipleship Ministries’ most popular worship planning resources. The resource includes Sundays and Special Days, along with space for your own notes.
Click here to download the free calendars
| | Pay Your Apportionments Online with E-Check | | |
The West Ohio Conference now offers apportionment payments online via e-check. And! they will cover the processing fees!
Before you decide if e-check is a good option for your church, please log into www.westohioumc.org > MyChurch > Apportionments. There you will find a link to the "e-check Good to Know." You will also find the tutorial and link to make your payment.
If you are a treasurer or someone authorized to make payments on behalf of your church, you will need to be registered at westohioumc.org, have permission to view MyChurch, and editing privileges. Please reach out to Michelle mrobinson@wocumc.org or 419-897-9770 for assistance.
| | Resources Available To Celebrate The Advent Season | | |
In two months, the liturgical calendar will begin with the Advent Season, a time of waiting in expectation for the birth of Jesus.
During this season, congregations observe the season through prayer, participating in Advent-focused bible studies and worship liturgy.
Click Here for Resources
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Toledo Epworth UMC: Director of Youth and Young Adult Ministries - The Director of Youth and Young Adult Ministries at Epworth United Methodist Church provides leadership and oversight for the ministries that serve youth (grades 6–12) and young adults. Oversees all aspects of ministry programming, including Bible studies, retreats, service projects, mission trips, and special events tailored to the needs and interests of youth and young adults. Rooted in Epworth’s mission of making disciples of Jesus and embodying Christ’s love and grace, this role fosters spiritual growth, authentic relationships, and meaningful engagement through worship, service, learning together, playing together, and sharing together in small groups. This position serves as a vital connector across generations—helping young people discover their sacred worth and live out their faith with purpose.
A significant portion of this role, approximately half of the Director’s responsibilities, is dedicated to outreach and partnership-building. The Director actively engages with schools, other local youth groups, community organizations, other ministries, and collaborative projects to extend the church’s impact beyond its walls. This outward-facing work is essential to cultivating inclusive spaces and fostering relationships.
Contact information - info@epworth.com
More information available HERE
Findlay St. Andrew's UMC: Braille Faith We Sing - Findlay St. Andrew's is looking for a copy of the Faith We Sing Braille edition. If you have a copy that they can borrow or purchase, please reach out to Pastor Cathy Davis atcdavis@saumcfindlay.org
Perrysburg First UMC: Youth Leader - Perrysburg First Church is looking for an individual who has a heart for Jesus and youth. If interested, please contact the church office at 419-874-1911.
Job Description
Toledo Epworth UMC: Children's Sunday School Coordinator - The Children's Sunday School Coordinator is responsible for leading and coordinating the Sunday School program for children K-5 grades at Epworth United Methodist Church. This role involves teaching, recruiting, training, and supervising a team of volunteers to ensure a safe, welcoming, and spiritually enriching environment for children. The coordinator will work closely with church staff and volunteers to plan and implement engaging and child-appropriate Sunday School lessons and activities.
Contact Information - info@epworth.com
More Information available HERE
| | The Maumee River District Office is open from 9:00am-4:30pm Monday-Thursday. The office may be closed on Fridays, but Michelle will still be working from home and available by phone and email. Office appointments can be scheduled on Fridays if needed. | | If you'd like to submit an article, event, or classified ad to be featured in the Maumee River District E-Newsletter, please use the submission form found by clicking here or go to the News & Events section of our website. Each submission will run for (up to) 3 weeks. If you require more than 3 weeks, your article will need to be re-submitted. Please make your submissions each week by no later than 12 noon on Wednesday. Thank you! | | Maumee River District | 419.897.9770 | www.westohioumc.org/maumeeriver | | | | |
