Alma United Methodist Church

September
2008

Labor Day Weekend
At Lakeview Campground

If you can’t spend the whole weekend,
come spend the day on Sunday, Aug. 31st!

Swim, go for a boat or paddleboat ride, or just plain relax in the sun. Potluck dinner @ 5:30 p.m. at our church campsite.
Directions: M-46 W to Hillman Rd. North on Hillman to Cutler Rd. Campground on the right side. Go to the stop sign inside the campground. Turn right at next corner and our campsites are across from the pavilion in Area 2. Contact Renee Hahn for more information. (989)620-4317.

53rd ANNUAL MEN & BOYS RETREAT
Are you stressed out? Need a relaxing spiritual weekend close to God and nature? Join us at our Annual Retreat on September 12–14, 2008 at Lake Louise for a Christian experience that will renew your spirit.
Featured speaker is Rock Campbell of Central Michigan Area Director of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. Music will be provided by
Living Truth II, featuring Elroy & Tammie Kosters.
If you know a young man age 8 or over, bring him with you…or invite a friend! Money is available to help cover the cost of any youth attending. For more information, contact Mark Hahn (620-4316).

SUNDAY SCHOOL KICK-OFF

September 7, 2008 ~ 9:00 am

Weekly Faith Lessons for children & youth

Why bring your children and teens to Sunday School?

Our kids face tough choices every day. Their world-view is shaped and re-shaped by music, television, celebrity images, peers, and an increasingly secular culture. Family time is compromised by the demands of busy lives. Yet young Christians are still drawn to the Truth. God’s Word is timeless, liberating, and empowering! Where and when will our children meet the heroes of our faith, hear the words of Jesus, and the relevant lessons of the Old and New Testament?

Sunday School is a wonderful place for kids to begin their life-long spiritual journey!

All classes begin at 9:00 a.m.
Ages 2 & 3 - Nursery
Grades 4, 5, 6 - third floor
Ages 4, 5, K - third floor                             Grades 7 & 8 - the ARK
Grades 1, 2, 3 - third floor                           High School - youth room (inside the ARK)

UMW NEWS
It’s that time again – all are welcome to enjoy a great lunch at noon on Thursday, September 11, in the parlor and then listen to Renee Hahn share about the Mission work camp experience in Birmingham, AL. Make your reservation by Monday, Sept. 8. Bring a friend!

Dates to get on your calendar right now:

Local UMW --
2nd Thurs. at noon in the parlor; programs are as follows:
Oct. -- Red Cross -- Gratiot County -- Disaster Preparedness
Nov. -- "I Believe in Jesus" -- from School of Christian Mission
Dec. -- Forever Young lunch -- at Saravilla Bed and Breakfast; Program: Gratiot County Readers Theatre

District UMW --
To our Christian Sisters at Alma UMC: these up-coming district events are going to be held right here in our own "neighborhood." If you have never attended, please make a special effort to attend either or both of these events this fall. Bring your neighbor, special friend or relative; bring a car load! Money back guarantee that you will have a great time!

Plan NOW !!
Annual District Celebration; St. Louis UMC, Sat., Sept. 20, 9a.m.-3pm Theme; "I Have Called You by Name -- You are Mine"
Keynote speaker -- Rev. John Boley (from Mt. Pleasant 1st UMC) "When Walls Destroy Lives -- an Up-date on Israel/Palestine"
DOVE Award recipients are recognized

Annual Women’s Night Out -- Tues., Oct. 7, 2008 at the Edmore UMC, 5:45 - 8:30 p.m. Program is: " A Little Bit of Sunshine"

September 14, 2008
Alma Youth for Christ

For 20 years Central Michigan Youth for Christ (YFC) has been reaching out to the youth of Gratiot County. During that time thousands have been reached through relationship evangelism. Each week over 200 teens participate in club nights, small groups and special activities throughout our community. YFC continues to minister with a deep commitment to reach all young people for Jesus Christ. The Youth Center and offices are located at 2550 W. Cheesman Road in Alma. You can learn more about this local mission by calling Wes Wickes, Executive Director, at 463-4274 or by visiting their web site at www.cmyfc.net.

The tentative menu for September is:

September 3: Mexican Night. Soft and hard shell tacos, enchiladas, nachos with cheese, salad bar, and brownies.
September10: Marinated chicken, redskin potatoes, glazed carrots, salad bar, cheese pizza, and cake.
September17: Roast pork, real mashed potatoes & gravy, green beans, hot dogs, salad bar, chocolate peanut butter bars and shortbread.
September 24: Lasagna, garlic bread, broccoli, salad bar, pudding and pumpkin bars.

DIVORCED ? SEPARATED?
FIND HELP AT DIVORCECARE.
DivorceCare is a special 13 week seminar and support group for people who are separated or divorced. DivorceCare is a special 13 week seminar and support group for people who are separated or divorced. This group will begin meeting on Wed., Sept. 17th. For more information call the office (463-4305).

DC4K - DivorceCare for Kids!
If you know a child hurting because of divorce, bring him or her to DivorceCare for Kids, a special place for kids ages 5-12 to find help and healing. At our weekly DC4K gr4oup, kids make friends with other kids who understand what it feels like when parents get divorced. We will begin meeting on Sept. 17th. For more information call the church office (463-4305).

CELEBRATE LABOR DAY
Labor Day, first celebrated in 1882, provides a day of rest for working Americans, showing their importance to the country’s well being.
Christians see work as a gift and command from God. Adam was put in the Garden to “tillit and keep it” (Genesis 2:15, NRSV). Even Jesus chose workers to help carry out his mission.
Rest is just as significant as work. God cmommanded us to rest one day each week (Exodus 20:10). The Sabbath is a time for worship, family activities, renewal and recuperation.
Labor Day is a reminder to be grateful for the creativity, ingenuity, minds and muscle power of countless workers - all gifts of God. That’s worth setting aside a day to appreciate!

REAL LIFE – REAL FAITH

40 Days of Getting It Together –
a Fall Study for Our Church

September 14 – October 26

This 40-day study is based on an exciting short movie series produced by Nooma Films. The theme of each week will be introduced in Sunday worship with small-group discussions held at various times throughout the week. This will be supported by short daily Bible readings.
Three main components of this study:
~Worship (6 Sundays)
~Small Group Discussion (6 meetings)
~Daily Bible Reading (40 days)
We will be wrestling with questions like:
~Does God love us even in our failure?
~Why do bad things happen to us?
~What does Jesus teach us about grief?
~Does it matter what others think about us?
~Does God answer prayer?
~Can "things" make us happy?
We hope that everyone finds this time of reflection and interaction vital to their spiritual journey.

BIBLE PRESENTATION
Each year our church family presents Bibles to our three year olds, second graders, and seventh graders. These students will receive their Bibles on Sunday, September 7 during the 10:15 worship service.

BIBLES AVAILABLE!
The Evangelism Committee has purchased several new and slightly used Bibles and Study Bibles. They are available for you or for anyone you know who would like to have a newer translation, or have a study Bible. There is no charge for these Bibles! We believe one of the most important tools for living as faithful Christians today is to have a Bible that we can easily read and understand. The New International Version (NIV) and the New Living Translation (NLT) are two translations that present God’s Word in a clear and concise manner.
The Bibles are located in the bookcase in the parlor. An envelope and brief message is provided with each Bible in case the recipient would like to make a donation to help offset the cost of providing more Bibles for others.

“PRAYERS & SQUARES” QUILT GROUP
If you would like to request a prayer quilt, please contact Julia Rice at 463-3814.

“Dear Sandy & the ladies from the Methodist Church,
I couldn’t begin to imagine what that big package was! Imagine my surprise - - the quilt is gorgeous and adds a much needed, but treasured spot of color to my otherwise beige apt. walls!!!
I am doing much better; have retired from teaching which I should have done last year,
but hindsight!!!
Every day brings progress. I am waiting for God to point out the next step.
                                                            Lovingly,
                                                           Stephanie”
                             (sister of Daryl(Sandy) Koch)

“To the Alma Methodist Church and all who tied a knot in the beautiful prayer quilt that was brought to me by Dorothy Grant and her daughter Pam Eisenberger several weeks ago. I truly love it and was touched that I was remembered by some in the church that I have always called my own. I was your organist when your church was brand new and loved every minute of it for 10 years.
Thank you again so very much for my prayer quilt.
Thelma (Rice) Stacey”

“Just a note to tell you that Thelma will be 103 years old on Sept. 5th * and she still lives alone in the Riverdale area on a farm that belonged to her husband’s parents for over 100 years. She asked me to write her thank you note because he eye sight is so bad. She has no family, but lots of wonderful friends who love and watch over her. She graduated from the Lansing Conservatory of Music and gave music lessons to many pupils in Alma. She is one special lady and has wonderful memories of the time she spent in the Alma Methodist Church.
Dorothy Grant”

Thelma Stacey
11190 W. Adams Rd.
Riverdale, MI 48877

Wilma Brown, Vesta Mapes, Gordon & Dorothy Grant, Barb Greer, Gordon Holbein, Doris Walsh, Betty Peters, Joan Kidd, Zoe Hedrick and family, John Lang, Stephanie Lion, Joyce Marcy, Tony Emery, Tori Rogers, Kali Pung, Charles Llewellyn and Bud Zerbe.

WOMEN’S EMMAUS WALK TO BE HELD @ AUMC!
Alma United Methodist Church will be hosting an Emmaus Walk for Women on October 9 (Thurs.) – October 12 (Sun.)! Some of the ladies from our own church have been participants and/or leaders in past walks and been blessed by the experience, so we are grateful for the opportunity to host this event. Please keep the leaders in your prayers as they are even now preparing for this, as well as the women who will be participating! May God’s blessing be experienced by each one.

“The fruit of silence is prayer. The fruit of prayer is faith. The fruit of faith is love. The fruit of love is service. The fruit of service is peace.”
~ Mother Teresa

SEE YOU AT THE POLE
In April 1990, a group of Christian teenagers in Burleson, Texas, decided to pray around the flagpoles at three schools. Thanks to word-of-mouth publicity and announcements at youth rallies, that September about 45,000 students prayed around flagpoles at 1,200 schools in four states.
See You at the Pole (SYATP) is now an annual, international event. Students of all ages organize prayer gatherings outside of regular school hours, usually at 7 a.m. local time. Many parents, teachers and youth pastors join in. This year’s event occurs on September 24.
Student-led prayer, even at public schools, is free speech protected by the U.S. Constitution. By gathering around their flagpoles, young people take a stand for Christ as they call on his name in prayer.

On December 18, 2001, Congress approved a joint resolution designating September 11 of each year as “Patriot Day.” It’s a day to remember the more than 3,000 innocent lives lost on that September morning in 2001.
The resolution requests that each year the President issue a proclamation calling on the American people and state and local governments to observe the day with appropriate programs and activities. Those activities include remembrance services, candlelight vigils, moments of silence, and flying the American flag at half-staff.
In his 2003 proclamation President Bush said, “On that day, and in its aftermath, we saw the greatness of America in the bravery of victims; in the heroism of first responders who laid down their lives to save others; in the compassion of people who stepped forward to help those they had never met; and in the generosity of millions of Americans who enriched our country with acts of service and kindness.”
Keep them all in your prayers this Patriot Day.

SING TO THE LORD ALL THE EARTH

The Chancel Choir sings regularly at our 10:15 a.m. Sunday worship service and for special services during the holidays. We welcome singers of all experience levels. We sing, we learn, and we grow together musically and spiritually. Participation in this choir is a unique opportunity for music ministry, fun & fellowship.
The Chancel Choir will rehearse this season beginning Sept.3rd, on Wednesday evenings from 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. in the church music room. Childcare will be available. For more information contact Renee Hahn. Email: renee@almaumc.com or cell phone 620-4317.

MUSIC MINISTRY
SINGERS OF ALL AGES… You are invited to be a part of our Choirs. If you like to sing (or even make a joyful noise…) then there is a place for you!

Cherub Choir (ages 4 – 2nd grade)
Meets each Sunday morning in the Children’s Worship room from 10:30 – 11:00 p.m.

Junior Choir (3rd – 8th grades)
Meets each Sunday in the choir room from 11:30 am – 12:00 p.m. Starting date TBA

Chancel Choir (High School - Adult)
Meets each Wednesday in the choir room from 7:00 – 8:30 p.m. Childcare is provided.

Methodist Musicians (Jr. High – Adult)
Play an instrument? Then you’re invited to play with us! Anyone with a couple years experience is welcome. We practice on Sunday’s at 11:45 a.m.
Methodist Musician’s schedule:
Rehearsal                                                        Play
Sept. 14th                                                    Sept. 21st
Oct. 19th                                                      Oct. 26th
Nov. 16th                                                    Nov. 23rd
Dec. 14th                                          Dec. 21st & 24th
Our Directors:
Cherub Choir & Methodist Musicians
Renee Hahn 681-4280 or 620-4317
Junior Choir
TBA
Chancel Choir
Renee Hahn 681-4280 or 620-4317
COMMUNION TABLE FLOWERS
If you would like to honor a loved one by providing flowers for the altar, please contact the church office at 463-4305.
Another way to remember or honor your loved one is to help sponsor students at the Congo Seminary in Mulunguishi, Africa. Our congregation has been supporting this vital mission ministry for a few years. Call the church office (463-4305) and tell us of your choice. The cost is $15.00 per Sunday. The name(s) of the ones being honored or memorialized will be printed in the bulletin for the Sunday of your choice.

REMINDER of CHURCH TIMELINES
Wed. noon: All items for the (weekly) Messenger and Bulletin.
the 15thof month: Deadline for all items for
the (monthly) Ambassador.
CHURCH OFFICE HOURS
The church office is open Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. until 3:00 p.m. If you have needs outside this schedule please feel free to call the parsonage at 463-1485 or contact Pastor Phil Friedrick directly at 763-0900.

LET US KNOW
If you or someone you know is ill, hospitalized, in crisis, or in need of pastoral care of any kind, please notify either the church office at 463-4305 or Pastor Phil at 463-1485.

USED INK CARTRIDGES
Did you know that if you bring your used ink cartridge to the church and put them in the specially marked box in the front narthex, Youth for Christ can turn them in for recycling and use the money towards their youth programs?!! This is certainly a way we can all help with Youth for Christ!

September
Sept. 1 Labor Day; Office Closed
Sept. 3 WNA resumes!
Sept. 7 National Grandparents Day
Sept. 11           Patriot Day (remembrance of Sept. 11)
Sept. 12-14      Men & Boy’s Retreat
Sept. 14           Special Offering: Youth for Christ
Sept. 20           Annual District UMW Celebration @ St. Louis UMC
Sept. 22           First Day of Autumn!

October
Oct. 5 CROP Walk
Oct. 7 Annual District UMW Women’s Night Out
Oct. 9-12         Women’s Emmaus Walk at AUMC
Oct. 26            AUMC Charge Conference
Oct. 29            UMW Calendar Dinner

SCRIPTURE READINGS

September
September 7   17th Sunday after Pentecost
Exodus 12:1-14; Psalm 149 or Psalm 148 (UMH 861); Romans 13:8-14;
Matthew 18:15-20
September 14   18th Sunday after Pentecost
Exodus 14:19-31; Exodus 15:1b-11, 20-21 (UMH 135); Romans 14:1-12;
Matthew 18:21-35
September 21   19th Sunday after Pentecost
Exodus 16:2-15; Psalm 105:1-6, 37-45 (UMH 828) or Psalm 78 (UMH 799); Philippians 1:21-30; Matthew 20:1-16
September 28   20th Sunday after Pentecost
Exodus 17:1-17; Psalm 78:1-4, 12-16
(UMH 799); Philippians 2:1-13;
Matthew 21:23-32

October
October 5   21st Sunday after Pentecost
Exodus 21:1-4, 7-9, 12-20; Psalm 19 (UMH 750); Philippians 3:4b-14; Matthew 21:33-46
October 12   22nd Sunday after Pentecost
Exodus 32:1-14; Psalm 106:1-6, 19-23(UMH 829); Philippians 4:1-9; Matthew 22:1-14
October 19   23rd Sunday after Pentecost
Exodus 33:12-23; Psalm 99 (UMH 819); I Thessalonians 1:1-10; Matthew 22:15-22
October 26   24th Sunday after Pentecost
Deuteronomy 34:1-12; Psalm 90:1-6, 13-17 (UMH 809); I Thessalonians 2:1-8;
Matthew 22:34-36

SCHOOL STARTS!

September 2, 2008
Please keep all of our students in your prayers as they begin another school year!

June - July
2008

The people of the Alma United Methodist Church have given generously towards the expenses of the upcoming work camp this summer. May God bless each of you for your gifts. If you didn’t have a chance to participate, you may do so at any time. Just write on your envelope or check “Youth Work Camp.
Following is a list of the students and the adults who are going on this mission trip to Birmingham, Alabama, June 29-July 5. We ask for your prayers (physical, spiritual, emotional and financial) as they prepare and look forward to this ministry opportunity.

Students
Mark Armstrong
Melissa Armstrong
Tom Finn
Matt Friedrick
Rachel Friedrick

Morgan Francis
Aaron Hahn
Jourdan Hagerman
Kallei Mapes
Kyle Mapes

Ethan Rice
Jared Shirely
Tara TenHave
Cyrus Zerbe

Adults
Tom Armstrong
Amy Everhart
Viki Everhart
Renee Hahn
Ed Massar

SIDEWALK PROPHETS

in concert at Alma United Methodist Church

Saturday, June 14th at 7:00 p.m.

$5 Admission at the door-kids under 12 free

The Sidewalk Prophets are an unlikely group of poets, musicians, and fun-lovers who have been brought together by the blood of Jesus Christ to share the hope, faith, tragedy, and love that is the reality of Christianity.

They are armed with a dynamic songwriting duo comprised of college dorm mates turned best friends David Frey and Ben McDonald. Frey is equipped with an unrivaled vocal range and a distinct soulful voice that is full of engaging passion. McDonald brings an undeniable drive and passion for writing songs that will engage both churched and un-churched listeners.

The Sidewalk Prophets main focus is to make young people feel comfortable being who God has created them to be. The band travels with the slogan “Image is nothing…love is everything.”

The Sidewalk Prophets have had appeal not only to young people but to their parents and grandparents as well. Their musical pallet includes an eclectic group of influences from past to present which allows the band to connect with almost anyone who listens.

We will honor these graduates during a special service on June 1st. Join us for a reception in the parlor immediately following worship at 11:30 a.m. as we congratulate them on their achievements.
OUR GRADUATES ARE:
High School:
Jacob Arnett – Alma High School
Heidi Beckmann – Alma High School
Rachel Friedrick – Alma High School
Ken Goward – Alma High School
Chelsea Holmes – Alma High School
Kent Kirby – Alma High School
Travis Mitchell – Alma High School
Miah Pavlik – Alma High School
Greg TenHave – Vestaburg High School

College:
Nanette Beckmann – Alma College
Adam Bawtinheimer-Central Michigan University
Amy Everhart- Albion College
Andrew Massar-Grand Valley State University
Monica Rentfrow-Alma College
Andrew Smith-University of Michigan

DIVORCECARE AND DC4K
We will not meet during the summer months, but will begin again in September. Thanks so much to all our dedicated volunteers! Watch the Messenger and the Ambassador for start-up dates.

“Thank you to the DC and DC4K workers. God is smiling on you all.
Gail”

UMW NEWS
Thank you to the Women’s Ministry for the May baskets.
All of whom received them from me were thrilled. Bless you!
Gail Horvat”

School of Christian Mission at Albion College.
Drive In Day is Sat., July26.
Week day school is Tues.-Fri., July22-25.
A great mission education experience. For women, men and children/youth.
Adult registration for 3 nights and all meals is only $175.00 and children/youth can attend for only $10. (with their parent)
The three studies are: "Giving our Hearts Away -- Native American Survival,"
"I Believe in Jesus" and "Israel/Palestine"

Registration information is available from Linda Darrow, 763-8750

Dates to get on your calendar right now:

District Annual, Sat., Sept. 20 at the St. Louis UMC; program on Israel/Palestine;
come and recognize our DOVE Award recipients.
Calendar Dinner -- Wed., Oct. 29 -- church fellowship hall

Baby Bottle Boomerang is Back!
Baby Bottle Boomerang is an annual campaign to help fund Pregnancy Services and its many life-affirming programs. Pregnancy Services is a Christ-centered ministry, positively impacting the lives of young women and their babies in Gratiot County. Each year, our congregation’s generous giving has provided significant funds toward the agency’s operating expenses. Thank you!
Baby bottles from Pregnancy Services of Gratiot County will be distributed on Mother’s Day, May 11. The bottles are to be taken home, filled with cash, coins, or check, and returned to the church on Father’s Day, June 15, 2008.
~Campaign liaison, Julie Armstrong

June 15, 2008
Summer Camp Scholarships
Summer Church Camp is one of the most spiritually transforming experiences our youth can have. This fund, along with a $50 per camper gift from the United Methodist Wome, provides up to one-half of the fee for the children and youth (3rd grade through High School) of our church to attend camp. We currently have a large number of kids eligible to attend church camps. Most of our camps cost about $350 per child. Make a difference in a child’s spiritual life this summer!

Prison Ministry ~ July 13, 2008
Our church has been actively engaged in ministries which reach those who are incarcerated (and their families) for many years. In the past this fund has allowed us to fund Christmas and Easter baskets, Christmas gifts to children of prisoners, and summer camp for prisoner’s kids, and Bibles.

A big THANK YOU to those who shared their faith in a most important way this year---by serving as Sunday school teachers for the youth of our church! We appreciate you!

Toddler & Twos Erin Binger (all year)

Age 3, 4, 5/K Traci Massar (all year)

Grades 1, 2, 3 Kelly & Jerry Masley
(fall, winter)

Jana Lynn Almeida
(spring)

Grades 4, 5, 6 Christine Zerbe (fall)

Emily Adams (winter)

Julie Armstrong
(spring)

Grades 7 & 8 Julia Rice (fall, winter)

Viki Everhart (spring)

Grades 9 - 12 Pat Wright
(fall, spring)

Dianne Borrello
(winter)
SANCTUARY SOUND SYSTEM FAILING
In the midst of all the wonderful, albeit costly, project happening in our church right now, it should come as no surprise (Murphy’s Law!) that a critically important item like our sound system would break down. While all the microphones are fine and will transfer into a new system, the speakers, controls, and amplifiers need replacing. This can be a costly system to replace, so we have been cobbling our system together for years with parts from Radio Shack. However, we are blessed to have a highly skilled local sound technician who has assisted us in the past with sound issues. Bill Gilbert works for Corporate Sound in Grand Rapids. Bill just completed installing the new sound system in the Heritage Center at Alma College. Because of his quality of work he comes highly recommended. Bill watches our church services on television and has a good understanding of our needs. Although we have solicited a bid from another sound system company, it is likely that we will end up working with Bill because of his expertise and reasonable cost.
This is still an expensive undertaking. It will cost almost $15,000 to have this work completed. Approximately $8,000 of this is already in place. That’s where we all come in. Please watch for the special “Tax Rebate” envelopes that will be available for everyone. If each family commits a tithe of this government rebate, this crisis will be miraculously averted and our economy will be stimulated! Thanks for helping with this important challenge.

GREAT LAKES LOONS ~ JOIN THE FLOCK

July 27, 2008 ~ $8.50/ticket; 25 tickets available!

Leave church parking lot@ 12:30 p.m. ~ tailgate party @ 1:30 p.m. Bring a dish to pass; hot dogs and hamburgers provided!

Gametime @ 3:00 p.m.~Reserve your ticket NOW!

“PRAYERS & SQUARES” QUILT GROUP
If you would like to request a prayer quilt, please contact Julia Rice at 463-3814.

The Song of the Quilt
With fingers most worn to the bone,
Eyes greedily seeking her bed,
A woman sits in her dressing gown
Plying her needle and thread.
Stitch – stitch – stitch
In her room so modernly built
And oft with a voice of uncertain pitch
Sings the song of the Quilt.

Patch – patch – patch
While the dew is still on the rose
Stitch – stitch – stitch
Till her eyes in weariness close.
Patch – patch – patch
Every where she goes
With never a moment to rest or to shirk
Never a moment to run away.
From this Aid Society work.

Three women made start on this beautiful quilt
And plied their needles and thread.
But One, kept on to the bitter end
This patching for somebody’s bed.

Oh, men with sweethearts dear,
Oh – men with mothers and wives
‘Twas not for fun that this work was begun
‘Twas just to save your lives.
For each block CUT OUT, more money CAME IN –
And how the funds did grow,
Ah – ‘twas cut, patch stitch –
Till something FINE, was for show.

So ‘twas cut, stitch – patch –
These blocks of salmon and green
While she cut – patched – stitched,

Till they danced each night in her dream.
Patch – patch – patch
Her fingers now worn to the bone.
But her voice has taken cheery lilt –
As she sits at home in her afternoon gown
And sings the song of the quilt.

QUILTS
There are quilts that make us happy
There are quilts that make us blue
There are quilts that have a truer meaning
Like the one that we are giving you.

There are quilts that only cost a dollar
There are quilts that didn’t cost a dime.
But the quilt that we are giving you dear,
Cost most of us some money, and a few a lot of time.

There are quilts our dear Grandma’s made us,
There are quilts we bought at a bazaar
There are quilts we pieced when we were youngsters
There are quilts that came from near and far.
There are quilts that rip out at the corners
There are quilts that pull out at the seams
But the quilt that we are giving you dear,
Is fit for dukes and duchesses, kings and queens.

There are quilts of red and yellow
There are quilts of pink and green
There are quilts of flowers and baskets
There are quilts of wedding rings
There are quilts of squares and oblongs
There are quilts of colors bold –
But the quilt that we are giving you dear,
Bears the names of young and old.

There are quilts that carry off the prizes
There are quilts that never draw a thing
There are quilts that keep us warm in winter
There are quilts that we only use in spring
There are quilts with tattered ragged edges
There are quilts we simply keep out of sight
But the quilt that we are giving you dear,
We hope you’ll think is just right.

There are blocks like Aunt Enis’ apron,
There are blocks from Bessie’s bag,
There are blocks from Grandma’s pinafore,
There are blocks cousin Ellen had –
There are blocks we know not where we got ‘em,
There are blocks like Uncle Herman’s shirts
There are blocks for which we had to search
But the blocks that we are giving you dear,
Bear names of many who love our church.

There are quilts that make us happy
There are quilts that make us blue
There are quilts that have a truer meaning
Like the one we’re giving you.
There are quilts that bear no sentiment
There are quilts that surely do –
And the quilt that we are giving you dear,
Bears this message, “We all love you.”

These poems were also given to Lena Brice with the quilt.
The quilt was given to Lena Brice, Dec. 1937 from the Woman’s Aid Society of the Alma Methodist church. She was president of the group. Passed on to Eloise Brice Morrison and then to Elizabeth Morrison Williams.

“We so appreciated the thoughts and prayers for my dad during his short illness. The quilt is now a memorial to my dad (Robert Tollas) and a testament to the kindness of our AUMC congregation and quilt ministry.
Randy & Sonia Lark”

“Dear Prayer Quilt Ministry Team,
You all are in my prayers and with great thankfulness for my Prayer quilt you all made for me months ago. Just wanted to update you all on my journey of chemo for cancer. I have 2 more treatments to go, then radiation will follow for 6 weeks. I’m doing well, good and bad days, side effects are not the most pleasant things. However my Prayer Quilt has gotten me through some pretty tough times. I wrap myself in it and finger each knot and peacefulness comes. Since December my journey has been scary at times and then somehow I find some humor. The love of family and friends and your Prayer Quilt have gotten through a lot of difficult times. I also have found peace just holding my quilt. I continue to pray for all of you.

We are All in God’s hands.
Lovingly,
Lila Shultz”

“To the loving members of the United Methodist Church~
The family of Sharon Riley wish to send our sincerest thanks for the beautiful prayer quilt you made. Although mom lost her battle on Tuesday and is now with God, the quilt brought her great joy and comfort. The quilt has a very special place in our hearts as do all of you. You are all remarkable!
                                                   Love,
                                                   Joe & Shelly Strubb
                                     Steve Riley and Mike Riley”

“Dearest Members of Alma Methodist Church Quilt Ministry,
I simply cannot find the words to express my gratitude to you for the absolutely beautiful prayer quilt. To know that people who didn’t even know me made me such a beautiful gift and prayed for my family and I as you tied it, fills my heart with praise for the God who created these loving people. It brings me such peace and strength each time I look at it. You exemplify true Christian love with a project such as this, reaching out to those who are broken, as Jesus would have done. My prayer is that you will continue this beautiful ministry and that God will bless each one of you abundantly for your kindness.
I have a long road to walk but people like you make it possible to take each painful step. God in His goodness is allowing me to see blessings along the way.
Thank you for this beautiful gift. I will treasure it forever.
Love,
Carol Landis”

Wilma Brown, Vesta Mapes, Gordon & Dorothy Grant, Barb Greer, Gordon Holbein, Doris Walsh, Betty Peters, Joan Kidd, Zoe Hedrick and family, John Lang, Joyce Marcy, Jeannine Haag, Tony Emery, Tori Rogers, Kali Pung, Charles Llewellyn and Bud Zerbe.

Vacation Bible School

is coming to AUMC!

August 10-15, 2008!
All kids, preschool age through 6th grade (completed), are invited to join the fun at Jerusalem Marketplace: Holy Land Adventure Vacation Bible School, where we experience Jerusalem as Jesus did! Marketplace will take place here at the church, 9 am to 12 noon.
We’re looking for volunteers to help in all areas. Please let us know if you can help. You will be a blessing to the kids and in turn you will receive a blessing for helping others!
Online registration will begin in July, as well as paper registration. Be watching the church website for that.
For more information please contact Kallei Mapes (763-3375) or Rachel Friedrick (463-1485)

Thank you! To the Adult Choir and Methodist Musicians for their faithful service this past season. It has again been a real joy for me to serve as director of these groups. The music ministry of our church continues to evolve, and I am blessed to be a part of this transformation.

There are only two pre-requisites for singing with the adult choir. 1) That you love the Lord, and 2) that you desire to honor the Lord with your voice. It may come as a surprise, but several choir members aren’t music readers…however, they have a good ear, learn by listening and are willing to make a ‘joyful noise’J Praise God!

I praise the Lord for the music ministry of our church, and look forward to how God can and will use the gifts and talents of the singers and musicians of our AUMC church family.

Grace & Peace,
Renee Hahn
COMMUNION TABLE FLOWERS
If you would like to honor a loved one by providing flowers for the altar, please contact the church office at 463-4305.
Another way to remember or honor your loved one is to help sponsor students at the Congo Seminary in Mulunguishi, Africa. Our congregation has been supporting this vital mission ministry for a few years. Call the church office (463-4305) and tell us of your choice. The cost is $15.00 per Sunday. The name(s) of the ones being honored or memorialized will be printed in the bulletin for the Sunday of your choice.

REMINDER of CHURCH TIMELINES
Wed. noon: All items for the (weekly) Messenger and Bulletin.
the 15thof month: Deadline for all items for
the (monthly) Ambassador.

CHURCH OFFICE HOURS
The church office is open Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. until 3:00 p.m. If you have needs outside this schedule please feel free to call the parsonage at 463-1485 or contact Pastor Phil Friedrick directly at 763-0900.

LET US KNOW
If you or someone you know is ill, hospitalized, in crisis, or in need of pastoral care of any kind, please notify either the church office at 463-4305 or Pastor Phil at 463-1485.

TV CHANNEL 3 SCHEDULE
AUMC has begun video-taping of the service on Sunday mornings. The following is a schedule of the days you can watch it the following week.
Tuesday’s @ 7:00 p.m.
Thursday’s @ 4 p.m.
Friday’s @ 7 p.m.
Sunday’s @ 1:00 p.m. & 9:30 p.m.
SPECIAL DATES
June
June 11            Youth to Michigan
                        Adventure!
June 14            Sidewalk Prophet’s
                        Concert; Flag Day
June 15            Special Offering:
Summer Camp Scholarships
Rachel Friedrick’s open house
June 20            Summer Arrives!!!
June 21            Ken Goward’s graduation open house
June 22-28       Confirmation Camp
June 29-July 5 Youth Work Camp

July
July 4               Independence
                        Day: Office Closed
July 13 Special Offering:
                        Prison Ministry

YOUTH GROUP TRIP TO MICHIGAN ADVENTURE!
The AUMC Youth Group will be taking a day trip to Michigan Adventure water park in Muskegon on Wednesday, June 11. Friends are welcome! Mark your calendar now and let Mark Hahn know if you are planning to go.

Happy Father’s Day, Dad’s!

June 15, 2008

SCRIPTURE READINGS
June
June 1   3rd Sunday after Pentecost
Genesis 6:11-22; 7:24; 8:14-19;
Psalm 46 (UMH 780); Romans 1:16-17;
3:22b-28 (29-31); Matthew 7:21-29
June 8   4th Sunday after Pentecost
Genesis 12:1-9; Psalm 33:1-12(UMH 767);
Romans 4:13-25; Matthew 9:9-13, 18-26
June 15   5th Sunday after Pentecost
Genesis 18:1-15; Psalm 116:1-2, 12-19
(UMH 837); Romans 5:1-8;
Matthew 9:35-10:8 (9-23)
June 22   6th Sunday after Pentecost
Genesis 21:8-21; Psalm 86:1-10. 16-17
or Psalm 17 (UMH 749);
Romans 6:1b-11; Matthew 10:24-39
June 29   7th Sunday after Pentecost
Genesis 22:1-14; Psalm 13 (UMH 746);
Romans 6:12-23; Matthew 10:40-42

July
July 6   8th Sunday after Pentecost
Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67;
Psalm 45:10-17 or Psalm 72 (UMH 795); Romans 1:16-17;
3:22b-28 (29-31); Matthew 7:21-29
July 13   9th Sunday after Pentecost
Genesis 25:19-34; Psalm 119:105-112 or Psalm 25(UMH 756);
Romans 8:1-11; Matthew 13:1-9, 18-23
July 20   10th Sunday after Pentecost
Genesis 28:10-19a; Psalm 139:1-12, 23-24
(UMH 854); Romans 8:12-25;
Matthew 13:24-30, 36-43
July 27   11th Sunday after Pentecost
Genesis 29:15-28; Psalm 105:1-11, 45b
(UMH 828); Romans 8:12-25; Matthew 13:24-30, 36-43

If you want others to be happy, practice compassion. If you want to be happy, practice compassion.
~Tenzin Gyatso, the 14th Dalai Lama

“Worship in the Park”
9:00 a.m.

Memorial Day Weekend (May 25)
through
Labor Day Weekend (August 31)

Because of the coolness of the early morning, we are moving this service from its school-year starting time (8:00 a.m.) to 9:00 a.m. This change will only be for the summer. When we move back to the sanctuary after Labor Day Weekend, this service will return to the regular time.

*In case of inclement weather, we will meet in the sanctuary

May
2008

UMW NEWS
May 8, Thursday – monthly catered luncheon at noon in the parlor. Join us for great food, good fellowship and interesting program. Program will be Patsy Coffman, from St. Johns UMC, speaking about and sharing a short video about the United Methodist Community House in Grand Rapids. This national project is owned by United Methodist Women of our West Michigan Conference. The wide variety of programs provided here serve people of all ages, from infants to senior citizens. The money which comes from the pop tabs we collect goes to support the programs at UMCH. Call your reservation in to the church office (463-4305) by Mon., May 5.

We are still looking for a donation of a bench for outside in the outdoor play area. We will memorialize it if someone would like to do that. If you are able to help with this need, please contact the church office.

BAPTISMS
On Sunday, April 13, 2008, Tyler LaLone and Izabelle LaLone, son and daughter of Bryan & Jenefer LaLone, received Christian baptism. May God’s special blessing be with Tyler, Izabelle and their parents.

May 11, 2008
Blanket Sunday
Blanket Sunday is another ministry of Church World Service (CWS), the same agency that sponsor’s the CROP Walk. Church World Services provides both light and heavy blankets for warm and cold climates. Blankets provide warmth and protection from the elements, and is sometimes the only emergency shelter a family may have. Every $10 contribution provides a winter blanket. For more information see: www.churchworldservice.org .

SANCTUARY SOUND SYSTEM FAILING
In the midst of all the wonderful, albeit costly, project happening in our church right now, it should come as no surprise (Murphy’s Law!) that a critically important item like our sound system would break down. While all the microphones are fine and will transfer into a new system, the speakers, controls, and amplifiers need replacing. This can be a costly system to replace, so we have been cobbling our system together for years with parts from Radio Shack. However, we are blessed to have a highly skilled local sound technician who has assisted us in the past with sound issues. Bill Gilbert works for Corporate Sound in Grand Rapids. Bill just completed installing the new sound system in the Heritage Center at Alma College. Because of his quality of work he comes highly recommended. Bill watches our church services on television and has a good understanding of our needs. Although we have solicited a bid from another sound system company, it is likely that we will end up working with Bill because of his expertise and reasonable cost.
This is still an expensive undertaking. It will cost almost $15,000 to have this work completed. Approximately $8,000 of this is already in place. That’s where we all come in. Please watch for the special “Tax Rebate” envelopes that will be available for everyone. If each family commits a tithe of this government rebate, this crisis will be miraculously averted and our economy will be stimulated! Thanks for helping with this important challenge.
Spring term Sunday school

Please note: the last day of Sunday School will be on Sunday, May 18!

The Evangelism Committee has purchased several new and slightly used Bibles and Study Bibles. They are available for you or for anyone you know who would like to have a newer translation, or have a study Bible. There is no charge for these Bibles! We believe one of the most important tools for living as faithful Christians today is to have a Bible that we can easily read and understand. The New International Version (NIV) and the New Living Translation (NLT) are two translations that present God’s Word in a clear and concise manner.
The Bibles are located in the bookcase in the parlor. An envelope and brief message is provided with each Bible in case the recipient would like to make a donation to help offset the cost of providing more Bibles for others.
PLEASE TAKE A BIBLE FOR YOURSELF OR A FRIEND AND DIG INTO GOD’S WORD!

Work Camp 2008
On June 27, thirteen youth and 5 adults from our church will leave for Alabama to participate in a week-long Group Foundations Work Camp. Work crews of 5 or 6 will scrape, paint and repair homes of deserving residents in Birmingham.
Reminder to work camp participants: please turn in your final payment of $150 (yellow envelope) by Wed., May 7. Your blue envelope ($150) was due on March 7. Thank you!

The menu for May is:

May 7: Mexican Night; includes soft & hard shell tacos, enchiladas, nachos with cheese, salad bar and brownies.

May 14: Oven fried chicken, au gratin potatoes, vegetable, salad bar and dessert.

May 21: Turkey casserole, salad bar and dessert*

*May 21 will be our last WNA until the fall! Thank you so much for your support! Enjoy your summer J

CHURCH SUMMER CAMPS
It’s not too early to begin thinking and planning for the summer. Brochures are available in the narthex and in the parlor. You can also go online and check out the camps at www.westmichiganconference.org (Quick link: Camping!)
FYI: Did you know there’s a hiking camp available for adults in the Adirondack Mountains of New York?! There are two choices of dates: July 27-Aug. 2 or Aug. 3 - Aug. 9. Space is limited, so get your registrations in early!

PRAYERS & SQUARES” QUILT GROUP
If you would like to request a prayer quilt, please contact Julia Rice at 463-3814.

“May God Bless You,
Some people enter our lives for just a moment, Others plant flowers in our hearts that bloom forever.
Thank you very much for the prayer quilt.
From Augusta Sinclair’s family.”

“With Appreciation, to thank you sincerely for your kindness.
I want to thank all of you for the quilt. It is beautiful. I am mailing this out on a Monday so will be thinking of you all.
Love,
Eleanor Skeith”

Wilma Brown, Vesta Mapes, Gordon & Dorothy Grant, Gordon Holbein, Gene Holbein, Doris Walsh, Betty Peters, Joan Kidd, Zoe Hedrick and family, John Lang, Joyce Marcy, Jeannine Haag, Bart Barton, Tony Emery, Tori Rogers, Kali Pung, Charles Llewellyn and Bud Zerbe.

May 1, 2008

Vacation Bible School

is coming

to AUMC!

August 10-15, 2008!
All kids, preschool age through 6th grade (completed), are invited to join the fun at Jerusalem Marketplace: Holy Land Adventure Vacation Bible School, where we experience Jerusalem as Jesus did! Marketplace will take place here at the church, 9 am to 12 noon.
We’re looking for volunteers to help in all areas. Please let us know if you can help. You will be a blessing to the kids and in turn you will receive a blessing for helping others! Try it!!!
Online registration will begin in July, as well as paper registration. Be watching the church website for that.
For more information please contact Kallei Mapes (763-3375) or Rachel Friedrick (463-1485)

Ascension Day
Forty days after each Easter, many Christians around the world celebrate the Ascension. It’s the day when the resurrected Jesus was raised up from the earth into heaven. The Ascension is the prelude to the Pentecost, when the Holy Spirit came upon a gathering of people, including the apostles, in Jerusalem.
The Ascension is more important than many Christians realize. In his human body, Christ could be in only one place at a time. The risen Christ, however, can be spiritually present in any place at any time.

A Mother’s Prayer
Dear Lord, thank you for the blessings of my children. Help me rely on you for guidance, patience and even-temperedness throughout my days.
I want my children to love you, worship you and serve you as best they can. Grant me the wisdom to know how to influence them to live godly lives. Prevent me from provoking my children to anger and from manipulation or nagging them.
Fill our household with abiding love and respect, and help us all be united in purpose to do your will. In the name of Christ our Lord. Amen.

May 11, 2008

Remember to Remember
One Memorial Day, some children were asked what the holiday means to them.
“That’s the day the swimming pool opens!” answered one eager boy. What he didn’t realize or appreciate was that he can freely go to the pool because more than one million people have put their lives on the line to preserve America’s democracy. Many of them have died so citizens of other countries might also enjoy the privileges of political, social and economic freedom.
Memorial Day is our opportunity to pause and remember the sacrifices of many of America’s best citizens. They made the supreme sacrifice on our behalf, so please remember to honor these heroes on May 26.

SING TO THE LORD ALL THE EARTH The Chancel Choir sings regularly at our 10:15 a.m. Sunday worship service and for special services during the holidays. We welcome singers of all experience levels. We sing, we learn, and we grow together musically and spiritually. Participation in this choir is a unique opportunity for music ministry, fun & fellowship.
The Chancel Choir has rehearsal on Wednesday evenings from 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. in the church music room. Childcare will be available. For more information contact Renee Hahn. Email: renee@almaumc.com or cell phone 620-4317.

MUSIC MINISTRY
SINGERS OF ALL AGES… You are invited to be a part of our Choirs. If you like to sing (or even make a joyful noise…) then there is a place for you!

Cherub Choir (ages 4 – 2nd grade)
Meets each Wednesday in the Children’s Worship room from 6:00 – 6:30 p.m.

Junior Choir (3rd – 8th grades)
Meets each Sunday in the choir room from 11:30 am – 12:00 p.m.

Chancel Choir (High School - Adult)
Meets each Wednesday in the choir room from 7:00 – 8:30 p.m. Childcare is provided.

Methodist Musicians (Jr. High – Adult)
Play an instrument? Then you’re invited to play with us! Anyone with a couple years experience is welcome.

Our Directors:
Cherub Choir & Methodist Musicians
Renee Hahn 681-4280 or 620-4317
Junior Choir
Brian Adams 466-6358
Chancel Choir
Renee Hahn 681-4280 or 620-4317

COMMUNION TABLE FLOWERS
If you would like to honor a loved one by providing flowers for the altar, please contact the church office at 463-4305.
Another way to remember or honor your loved one is to help sponsor students at the Congo Seminary in Mulunguishi, Africa. Our congregation has been supporting this vital mission ministry for a few years. Call the church office (463-4305) and tell us of your choice. The cost is $15.00 per Sunday. The name(s) of the ones being honored or memorialized will be printed in the bulletin for the Sunday of your choice.

REMINDER of CHURCH TIMELINES
Wed. noon: All items for the (weekly) Messenger and Bulletin.
the 15thof month: Deadline for all items for
the (monthly) Ambassador.

LET US KNOW
If you or someone you know is ill, hospitalized, in crisis, or in need of pastoral care of any kind, please notify either the church office at 463-4305 or Pastor Phil at 463-1485.

TV CHANNEL 3 SCHEDULE
AUMC has begun video-taping of the service on Sunday mornings. The following is a schedule of the days you can watch it the following week.
Tuesday’s @ 7:00 p.m.
Thursday’s @ 4 p.m.
Friday’s @ 7 p.m.
Sunday’s @ 1:00 p.m. & 9:30 p.m.
SPECIAL DATES
May
May 1 Ascension of the Lord;
National Day of Prayer;
May Basket delivery
May 5-11         Christian Family Week
May 11            Pentecost; Mother’s Day;
Elevator Dedication
            Special Offering: Blanket Sunday
May 18            Trinity Sunday
May 22-24       Youth Yard Sale
May 23-25       Highland Festival
May 26            Memorial Day Observance;
Office Closed
May 31            Habitat for Humanity
Bike-a-thon

June
June 15 Special Offering:
Summer Camp Scholarships
June 22-28 Confirmation Camp
June 29-July 5 Youth Work Camp

“Worship in the Park”
9:00 a.m.
Memorial Day Weekend
(May 25)- Labor Day Weekend (August 31)
Because of the coolness of the early morning, we are moving this service from its school-year starting time (8:00 a.m.) to 9:00 a.m. This change will only be for the summer. When we move back to the sanctuary after Labor Day Weekend, this service will return to the regular time.

*In case of inclement weather, we will meet in the sanctuary.

SCRIPTURE READINGS
May
May 4   7th Sunday of Easter
Acts 1:6-14; Psalm 68:1-10, 32-35 (UMH 792);
I Peter 4:12-14; 5:6-11; John 17:1-11
May 11   Day of Pentecost
Acts 2:1-21; Psalm 104:24-34,35b (UMH 826);
I Corinthians 12:3b-13; John 7:37-39
May 18   1st Sunday after Pentecost
Genesis 1:1-2:4a; Psalm 8 (UMH 743);
2 Corinthians 13:11-13; Matthew 28:16-20
May 25   2nd Sunday after Pentecost
Isaiah 49:8-16a; Psalm 131 or Psalm 62:5-12 (UMH 787); I Corinthians 4:1-5;
Matthew 6:24-34

June
June 1   3rd Sunday after Pentecost
Genesis 6:11-22; 7:24; 8:14-19;
Psalm 46 (UMH 780); Romans 1:16-17;
3:22b-28 (29-31); Matthew 7:21-29
June 8   4th Sunday after Pentecost
Genesis 12:1-9; Psalm 33:1-12(UMH 767);
Romans 4:13-25; Matthew 9:9-13, 18-26
June 15   5th Sunday after Pentecost
Genesis 18:1-15; Psalm 116:1-2, 12-19
(UMH 837); Romans 5:1-8;
Matthew 9:35-10:8 (9-23)
June 22   6th Sunday after Pentecost
Genesis 21:8-21; Psalm 86:1-10. 16-17
or Psalm 17 (UMH 749);
Romans 6:1b-11; Matthew 10:24-39
June 29   7th Sunday after Pentecost
Genesis 22:1-14; Psalm 13 (UMH 746);
Romans 6:12-23; Matthew 10:40-42

Pancake Breakfast & Rummage Sale
May 19, 2007 ~ Lumberjack Park (Riverdale)
Donation Breakfast
(Pancakes, sausage, ham, eggs, coffee, & juice)
8:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

The Lumberjack Park’s Rummage Sale will be held in the large pavilion.

To donate items, call 833-7871 or 833-2778

ALMA UNITED METHODIST CHURCH                                                 NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION
501 GRATIOT AVENUE     U.S. POSTAGE PAID
ALMA, MICHIGAN 48801 ALMA, MI. 48801
            PERMIT   NO. 104
ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED

PALM SUNDAY – March 16
Children in preschool through 8th grade will process waving palm branches this Sunday morning. We’ll gather downstairs in the fellowship hall to hand out the branches and line up at 10:05 a.m. Junior Choir and Chancel Choir sings.

WEDNESDAY NIGHT ALIVE –
March 19 at 5:00 P.M.
This week’s menu is Lasagna, garlic bread, broccoli, salad bar, pudding and pumpkin bars for dessert.

PASSOVER SEDER MEAL & TENEBRAE SERVICE FOR MAUNDY THURSDAY – March 20 at 6:00 P.M.
Come experience some of the elements of the tradi-
tional Jewish Seder meal as a part of our worship service. Please RSVP to the church office by March 16.

COMMUNITY GOOD FRIDAY SERVICE
March 21st, 12:15 p.m. at Masonic Pathways Chapel Join in this moving service of worship with our Christian brothers and sisters,

presented by the Alma Ministerial Association The Community Orchestra will again be playing.

7:00 A.M. Sunrise Service in the park
Held along the riverbank in Pine River Park. Watch for signs and people! Dress for the weather!

7:30 – 9:30 A.M. BREAKFAST served in the Fellowship Hall. Bring the whole family! Freewill donation. Volunteers needed to help prepare, serve and clean up! Contact Mark Hahn 681-4280.

9:00 A.M. SUNDAY SCHOOL
Classes will be held.

10:15 A.M. CELEBRATION WORSHIP
in the Sanctuary with all Choirs and Methodist Musicians participating!

The new elevator has arrived! Next week the Otis Elevator Company will send its team of installers to get everything up and running. Right now it is in crates and shipping boxes which have almost completely filled the parking lot level of the new building. In preparation for their work, additional drains are being installed in the bottom of the elevator pit to assure that we have a dry environment for our new equipment.

The electric, insulation, and heating are all mostly completed. Following the elevator installation the drywall will go up. That will leave floor covering, painting, and some exterior finishing which require warmer weather. Automatic door openers are almost finished as well.

There are several items that will require volunteer service. Some of these include seal coating the parking lot, interior painting, and other items. If you are able to volunteer some of your time, please contact Dick Grace, Co-Chair of the Project Task Force or the church office.

The finances are going well. Our loan payments are approximately $1,600 per month. Our church leaders would like to thank everyone for their solid support.

Right now we have identified May 11th (Mother’s Day) as the day of dedication! By that time all the permits should be secured and we will all be able to come and go through this wonderful new entryway.
Lent Offers Time for Growth
Many of us know our IQ (intelligence quotient), but what about your SQ (spiritual quotient)?
Lent is a good time to think about the quality of your spiritual life. Do you think about God often…or rarely? Do you pray often…or occasionally? How well do you know the Bible? The Commandments? The Beatitudes? The lives of biblical heroes and heroines?
During Lent, commit to spending more time in prayer. Also consider selecting a book of the Bible or a particular Bible character to study in-depth during this period.
Some people give up particular items or habits during Lent. If used wisely, this discipline can help you abandon things that have been interfering with your relationship with God.
Seek out devotions and books that can help strengthen your spiritual life. Examples include: Show Me the Way by Henri Nouwen, A Season for the Spirit by Martin Smith, Six Hours One Friday by Max Lucado, and Lent and Easter Wisdom From Thomas Merton edited by Jonathan Montaldo.

The Color Purple
We are still in the church season of Lent. Many churches have purple paraments on the altar, lectern and pulpit. Many pastors and choir members wear purple stoles. Why purple?
In ancient times, purple garments were expensive and hard to find. The dye came from rare sea mollusks that had to be crushed to garner their purple fluid. (One ounce of purple dye required 250,000 mollusks!) Then the right kind of fabric had to be placed in the dye, dried and made into clothing, which was time consuming.
Generally, only wealthy people and members of royalty could afford purple garments. For example, in the story of the rich man and Lazarus, the rich man “was dressed in purple and fine linen” (Luke 16:19, NRSV).
Purple is used in church sanctuaries during Advent and Lent because Christ is revered as the King of Kings.
UMW NEWS
March 12 - The area Lenten Breakfast is being hosted by the Breckenridge United Methodist Women on Wed., at 9:30 a.m. at the church. Reservations are due by Wed., Mar. 5 to Linda Darrow at 763-8750 or to the church office.

March 13, Thursday – monthly catered luncheon at noon in the parlor. Join us for great food, good fellowship and interesting program presented by Jenny Suptanarat, the Friedrick’s exchange student, from Thailand. Call your reservation in to the church office (463-4305) by Mon., March 10.

Plan ahead for this great District event:
“Celebrate Women”, Saturday, April 19, 2008, 8:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
“Girls” – 10-110 years young are invited and encouraged to join together and celebrate who WE are and who We can become!

Twenty three workshop sessions ranging from “Ask An Attorney”, “Make-N-Take Quilt Project”, Creative Careers in Direct Sales”, “Therapy Dogs”, “Improve Energy, Lose Weight and Stay Healthy using Herbs, Aromatherapy and More”. There is sure to be something for everyone!

Where: 1st United Methodist Church
400 S. Main St., Mt. Pleasant, MI
Cost: $12 if pre-registered by April 5th.

Contact Linda Darrow at 763-8750 or the Church office to RSVP.

For more information contact:
Emily Adams at 466-6358 or Nicole Bendele at 463-3877
Each year we decorate our Chancel area with Lilies, Tulips, Daffodils, and Hyacinths. If you would like to participate in this, call the church office at 463-4305. The deadline for orders will be Monday, March 10th. Please specify if your plant will be in honor of or in memory of someone.

March 5: Mexican Night. Soft and hard shell tacos, enchiladas, nachos with cheese, salad bar and brownies.

March 12: Irish boiled dinner including corn beef, cabbage, potatoes and carrots, salad bar and dessert.

March 26: Marinated chicken with red potatoes, glazed carrots, salad bar, cheese pizza, and cake.
We are having a “nursery shower.” We are hoping to rotate some broken, old, and toys with missing parts out of the nursery. We are registered for toys at Wal-mart. For those who would like to purchase new toys for the children just go into Wal-Mart and print off the registry list.
Please make sure that the cashier knows you are buying for a registry, so they can mark the item off the list. Thanks!
Drop off dates are March 16th and March 23rd. Please, leave your donations at the altar for all to see.
If you are unable to get out and shop, another way to participate in this ministry would be to make a cash donations to the Nursery Toy Fund.
Any questions contact Katey Thompson at kateythompson2002@yahoo.com or 463-5909.

This annual offering is collected on the fourth Sunday in Lent. All proceeds are used by the United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR) and the General Board of Global Ministries for world disaster relief. The total receipts for this ecumenical offering, from eight additional denominations often exceeds several million dollars. “Lent is the season of repentance, self-examination, and awareness of the hurts of the peoples of the world. One Great Hour of Sharing calls the Church to share the goodness of life with those who hurt.” (Discipline, Paragraph 263.2)

FREE MONEY!!!
Our church is enrolled with www.goodsearch.com. This website has pledged to donate one cent for each web search that is conducted through their site. Also, the site has arranged additional donations if you shop online. Type in www.goodsearch.com and list Alma United Methodist Church in the line where it asks “Who do you search for?” Each and every search you do will earn money for the church.
If you are shopping, just click on the “Who do you goodshop for?” icon which will open up a screen with icons for many stores. Each of those stores will rebate a percentage to our church. The ebay icon says 25-37%.

Think goodsearch when you need to do an internet search and help raise money for the church. You can make goodsearch your home page for the internet. Just follow the instructions on the website.

DIVORCED ? SEPARATED?
FIND HELP AT DIVORCECARE. DivorceCare is a special 13 week seminar and support group for people who are separated or divorced. Seminar Topics include “What’s Happening to Me?”, “The Road to Healing”, “Finding Help”, “Facing My Anger, Depression and Loneliness”, “New Relationships”, “Forgiveness/Reconciliation” “Moving On, Growing Closer to God” and other pertinent topics related to Divorce/Separation. Bobbi Price will be leading this support group and it meets on Wednesdays, Feb. 13 – May 7, at 6:00 p.m. For more information call the office with your name/phone number and Bobbi will call you back.

DC4K - DivorceCare for Kids!
If you know a child hurting because of divorce, bring him or her to DivorceCare for Kids, a special place for kids ages 5-12 to find help and healing. At our weekly DC4K group, kids make friends with other kids who understand what it feels like when parents get divorced. For more information call the church office (463-4305).

“PRAYERS & SQUARES” QUILT GROUP
If you would like to request a prayer quilt, please contact Julia Rice at 463-3814.

“Dear Prayers & Squares Quilters,
I really love my quilt! I thank you from my heart and knowing I have all those prayers for me helps a lot. Each day is another step in my life to keep my going!
Thanks again,
Linda Chapin”

“Dear Prayer Team Ministry,
Thank you so much for the beautiful Prayer
Quilt. I use it daily. With all the Prayers said for me in the making of this quilt, I know God will continue to heal me.
I would appreciate continued prayers for my eyes to get better. Again Thank you so much.
Much love to all of you,
Grace Humphrey”

“Thanks so much to the Alma United Methodist Church – The Prayer Quilt Ministry,
Please convey my sincere thanks to all of the wonderful people that worked on the beautiful quilt you sent me.
I will treasure it always.
Faye (Bohannon) Aldrich”

Wilma Brown, Vesta Mapes, Gordon & Dorothy Grant, Gordon Holbein, Gene Holbein, Doris Walsh, Betty Peters, Marilyn Gray, Joan Kidd, Zoe Hedrick and family, John Lang, Joyce Marcy, Natalie Elliot, Jeannine Haag, Bart Barton, Tony Emery, Tori Rogers, Kali Pung, and Bud Zerbe.

Confirmation Class 2008-09
All 6th, 7th, and 8th grade students are eligible to participate in the next confirmation class, which begins June 22 with confirmation camp. Pastor Phil held an informational meeting for parents and students in January. Interested students are reminded to register online or by mail as soon as possible to attend The Amazing Race confirmation camp at Wesley Woods. Please contact the church office when you have registered.

SING TO THE LORD ALL THE EARTH The Chancel Choir sings regularly at our 10:15 a.m. Sunday worship service and for special services during the holidays. We welcome singers of all experience levels. We sing, we learn, and we grow together musically and spiritually. Participation in this choir is a unique opportunity for music ministry, fun & fellowship.
The Chancel Choir will rehearse this season on Wednesday evenings from 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. in the church music room. Childcare will be available. For more information contact Renee Hahn. Email: renee@almaumc.com or cell phone 620-4317.

MUSIC MINISTRY
SINGERS OF ALL AGES… You are invited to be a part of our Choirs. If you like to sing (or even make a joyful noise…) then there is a place for you!

Cherub Choir (ages 4 – 2nd grade)
Meets each Wednesday in the Children’s Worship room from 6:00 – 6:30 p.m.

Junior Choir (3rd – 8th grades)
Meets each Sunday in the choir room from 11:30 am – 12:00 p.m.

Chancel Choir (High School - Adult)
Meets each Wednesday in the choir room from 7:00 – 8:30 p.m. Childcare is provided.

Methodist Musicians (Jr. High – Adult)
Play an instrument? Then you’re invited to play with us! Anyone with a couple years experience is welcome.
Our Directors:
Cherub Choir & Methodist Musicians
Renee Hahn 681-4280 or 620-4317
Junior Choir
Brian Adams 466-6358
Chancel Choir
Renee Hahn 681-4280 or 620-4317

REMINDER of CHURCH TIMELINES
Wed. noon: All items for the (weekly) Messenger and Bulletin.
the 15thof month: Deadline for all items for
the (monthly) Ambassador.

LET US KNOW
If you or someone you know is ill, hospitalized, in crisis, or in need of pastoral care of any kind, please notify either the church office at 463-4305 or Pastor Phil at 463-1485.

TV CHANNEL 3 SCHEDULE
AUMC has begun video-taping of the service on Sunday mornings. The following is a schedule of the days you can watch it the following week.
Thursday’s @ 4 p.m.
Friday’s @ 9 a.m.
Sunday’s @ 1:00 p.m. & 9:30 p.m.
SPECIAL DATES

March
Mar. 2              One Great Hour
                        of Sharing
Mar. 7              World Day of
                        Prayer
Mar. 9              Daylight Saving
                        Time begins
Mar. 12            Area Lenten Breakfast
Mar. 14            Youth Lock-In
Mar. 16            Palm Sunday
Mar. 20            Maundy Thursday;
                        First Day of Spring
Mar. 21            Good Friday;
office closed in afternoon
Mar. 23            Easter Sunday
Mar. 31-Apr.6 Spring Break

April
Apr. 7 Vision Team mtg.
Apr. 20            Special Offering:
            Habitat for Humanity/
Community Café
Apr. 25-27       Shepherd Maple Syrup Festival

Youth Group Auction
The Youth Group extends a hearty thank you to everyone who supported our Soup & Salad Luncheon and Silent Auction on February 10. Attendance was excellent, in spite of cold and snow. Nearly $2000 was raised to help us serve needy residents of Birmingham, Alabama at work camp this summer!
Special thanks to Pat Wright & Donna Rogers for cooking the delicious soups and Rose Peck and Sandy Dunn for their help in the kitchen. We also appreciate all those who generously donated items and services to the auction.

Work Camp Reminder
Students who are participating in work camp in Birmingham, AL (June 28 to July 5) are reminded to turn in their blue envelopes with $150 payment by March 7, 2008.
SCRIPTURE READINGS
March
March 2   4th Sunday in Lent
I Samuel 16:1-13; Psalm 23 (UMH 754 or 137) Ephesians 5:8-14; John 9:1-41
March 9    5th Sunday in Lent
Ezekiel 37:1-14; Psalm 130 (UMH 848);
Romans 8:6-11; John 11:1-45
March 16   Passion/Palm Sunday
Liturgy of the Palms
Matthew 2:1-11; Psalm 118:1-2, 19-29 (UMH 839)
Liturgy of the Passion
Isaiah 50:4-9a; Psalm 31:9-16 (UMH 764);
Philippians 2:5-11; Matthew 26:14-27:66 or
Matthew 27:11-54
March 17   Monday of Holy Week
Isaiah 42:1-9; Psalm 36:5-11 (UMH 771);
Hebrews 9:11-15; John 12:1-11
March 18   Tuesday of Holy Week
Isaiah 49:1-7; Psalm 71:1-14 (UMH 794);
I Corinthians 1:8-31; John 12:20-36
March 19   Wednesday of Holy Week
Isaiah 50:4-9a; Psalm 70 (UMH 793);
Hebrews 12:1-3; John 13:21-32
March 20   Holy Thursday
Exodus 12:1-4 (5-10) 11-14; Psalm 116:1-4,
12-19 (UMH 837); I Corinthians 11:23-26;
John 13:1-17, 31b-35
March 21   Good Friday
Isaiah 52:13-53:12; Psalm 22 (UMH 752);
Hebrews 10:16-25; John 18:19-42
March 23   Easter Day
Acts 10:34-43; Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24 (UMH 839);
Colossians 3:1- 4; John 20:1-18 or Matthew 28:1-10
March 30 2nd Sunday of Easter
Acts 2:14a, 22-32; Psalm 16 (UMH 748)
I Peter 1:3-9; John 20:19-31

April
April 6   3rd Sunday of Easter
Acts 2:14a, 36-41; Psalm 116:1-4, 12-19(UMH 837);
2 Peter 1:17-23; Luke 24:13-35
April 13   4th Sunday of Easter
Acts 2:42-47; Psalm 23(UMH 754 or 137);
I Peter 2: 19-25; John 10:1-10
April 20   5th Sunday of Easter
Acts 7:55-60; Psalm 31:1-5, 15-16 (UMH 764);
I Peter 2:2-10; John 14:1-14
April 27   6th Sunday of Easter
Acts 17:22-31; Psalm 66:8-20 (UMH 790);
I Peter 3:13-22; John 14:15-21

WHY ASH WEDNESDAY?
Traditionally, the Christian church has observed the seven weeks before Easter as a time of penitence and spiritual self-examination.
Ash Wednesday, which marks the beginning of Lent, derives its name from the ancient practice of marking the foreheads of worshipers with ashes from the unused palm branches of the previous year. Ashes historically have had a dual significance.
First, they are Old Testament symbols of sadness and humility. Job, in the midst of all his troubles, cried out to God from the ash heap.
The second symbolic meaning of ashes is as a reminder of our mortality. Each of us faces the inevitability of physical death. Our bodies and material possessions eventually will turn to dust and ashes. This is a reminder that we dare not trust in things that crumble. But Lent does not leave us on the ash heap. It begins with Ash Wednesday, but ends with Easter. And Easter proclaims that, through Christ, God resurrects us from our dust and ashes, makes us new creatures and brings life out of death!

There will be an Ash Wednesday service held here at the church on Wednesday, February 6th, at 6:30 p.m. Plan now to attend this meaningful service.

Sponsored by the AUMC Youth Group. Homemade Soups (chicken noodle, beef vegetable and bean & ham), salad bar, and assorted home-baked desserts! A wide variety of items and services (all price ranges) will be on display for silent auction.

Advance tickets are available through any youth group member OR by calling the church office (463-4305). All proceeds fund the 2008 work camp in Birmingham, AL.

If you are willing to donate an auction item or a service to auction, please contact Aaron or Mark Hahn (681-4280) or the church office, as soon as possible.

ELEVATOR & ENTRYWAY PROJECT MUSINGS
by Tim Lowe
Building Project Financial Advisor

Take the envelope to a local paint store and see how long it would take to match the purple color.

Store can tabs, box tops, Spartan labels, and anything else you are saving for the church.

Stare at the diagonal lines inside the envelope until you are sure they are just diagonal lines.

Announcement!
The United Methodist Church in the State of Michigan is currently divided into 2 conferences... the West Michigan Conference and the Detroit Conference. Our church is part of the West Michigan Conference, and we will be voting (along with all other UM churches in Michigan) whether or not to combine with the Detroit Conference and create one conference for our state on April 5th. If this passes, starting in 2009, there will be one conference ... the Great Lakes Area Conference. This means new alignments for all district boundaries (Central District could have a total of 99!) as well as many other changes at the conference level. If you have an opinion one way or the other, please contact Pastor Phil or Mark Hahn before April 1st. All details can be found online by visiting www.westmichiganconference.org then clicking on News and Events and the Michigan Area Transition Team News.

All United Methodist Churches have an elected lay leader from its annual charge conference. This person is the primary lay representative of the laity (the people of the congregation) and has the following duties: Foster awareness of the role of laity within their congregation, home, workplace, community and world; Meet regularly with the pastor to discuss the state of the local church and the needs for ministry; Act as an interpreter of the actions and programs of the Annual Conference and General Church; Continuing involvement in study and training opportunities that help to develop understanding for the churches existence and types of ministry that will most effectively fulfill the church's mission. For our church, Mark Hahn is our Lay Leader.

UMW NEWS
Help Needed: Our local women are hosting the District Annual Valentine Tea on Sat., Feb. 9. We need to provide light refreshments. If you are willing to provide a cookie tray, finger sandwiches, or cheese/cracker tray and/or can help serve, please call Linda Darrow, 763-8750.

February 9 - Alma UMC will be the location for the annual District UMW VALENTINE TEA, Sat., Feb. 9. from 1:30-3:30 p.m. No reservations necessary; $2.00 at the door. "Hats Down through the Ages" is the program. Dig out that special hat you haven't worn in years, put it on, and come hear about and see many vintage hats. For GIRLS (and women) of all ages!! Fun!! We are hoping that we have a super turn out from OUR congregation since we are hosting.

February 14 – monthly catered luncheon at noon in the parlor. Great food, good fellowship and interesting presentation by Carolyn from Carolyn’s Cakes! Call your reservation in to the church office (463-4305) by Mon., Feb. 11.

AMC MOM AND TOT TOGETHER TIME
For more information contact:
Emily Adams at 466-6358 or Nicole Bendele at 463-3877

The men of our church will meet together for breakfast, fellowship, support and to share in prayer. We meet in the side room of the Main Cafe at 7:30 a.m. For more information please contact John Knowlton (463-5282).

WEDNESDAY NIGHT ALIVE
Why not leave the cooking to someone else once a week, socialize with friends during supper, and know that the children are properly supervised in the ARK…and it happens every Wednesday night Dinner is served from 5:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. The Cherub choir rehearses at 6:00 p.m. and the Chancel Choir rehearses at 7:00 p.m. Childcare is available all evening.
The menu for February is:
February 6: Mexican Night. Soft and hard shell tacos, enchiladas, nachos with cheese, salad bar and brownies.
February 13: Oven fried chicken, real mashed potatoes, dressing, mixed vegetables, hot dogs, salad bar and cake.
February 20: Spaghetti with meat sauce, garlic toast, salad bar and cookies.
February 27: Ham, au gratin potatoes, broccoli, salad bar and fruit crisp.