UMconnect 03-10-10

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For more information about events going on around the conference, visit the events calendar.

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Click here for a printable version of this week's UMconnect.

Haiti update from UMCOR—layette and birthing kits needed

Please continue to be in prayer for the people of Haiti, particularly as the rainy season begins. Your continued partnership is essential to provide shelter and provisions for those who lost so much in the Jan. 12 earthquake.

As of March 4, $13.8 million has been received for UMCOR Haiti relief. Please remember that 100 percent of your gifts to the Haiti Emergency Advance will support the people of Haiti. This is made possible because overhead costs are covered through One Great Hour of Sharing (OGHS). This year's OGHS offering is Sunday, March 14; click on the link below for more information, or to donate now.

UMCOR has identified a need for both layette and birthing kits to address the basic needs of babies born in displaced persons camps in Haiti. Volunteers have been preparing kits to send to Haiti, they are still in need of more. The complete list of contents for each kit and shipping instructions are linked below. You also have the option to donate money towards items for the kits. To read more about what UMCOR is doing in Haiti, read their weekly e-letter, linked below.
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Nebraska United Methodists continue to open their hearts and pocketbooks to help those in Haiti

Donations to the Haiti Emergency Advance continue to pour in nearly two months after the devastating natural disaster occurred. From March 1 through 9, a total of $12,243.91 has been donated by Nebraska United Methodists to the United Methodist Committee on Relief's (UMCOR) Haiti relief fund. When added to the $8,922.50 that has been given for health kit materials and the $8,027.64 for shipping costs related to the kits, the grand total is $241,102.94.

Thank you for your gracious generosity.
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Reminder: Daylight Savings starts this weekend

Be sure to set your clocks ahead on Saturday night before going to bed; Daylight Savings officially starts on Sunday, March 14, at 2 a.m.
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Attendees of the November 2009 Rethink Church event discovered new tools and ideas to apply to their own local congregations. Rethink Church campaign materials are helping local churches see themselves as vital centers of ministry in their communities, not just a building.

Registration deadline for Rethink Church is March 16—don't miss out

Rethink Church, a conference on welcoming and evangelism, will be held on March 19 and 20 at Springfield First United Methodist Church, in Springfield, Neb. Workshop leaders Kathryn Witte and Lisa Maupin will bring fresh materials they acquired from recent trainings with United Methodist Communications in Nashville. Special guest Barbara Nissen will also join the training team. This event is the spring Laity Convocation for the Nebraska Conference, but don't let the name fool you—this conference is for pastors and laity working together to create spiritual excitement in their congregations.

Training-of-Trainers
Friday, March 19, from 9 a.m.-4 p.m., will be a training day for individuals who plan to commit to presenting the Rethink Church program to congregations in their district. Each participant will be certified as a Communications Ministry Trainer 1 and will be asked to teach Rethink Church at least twice in 2010. See the attached Training-of-Trainers document for details. Only those people who plan to teach the material should register for the Friday day workshop.

Congregation Workshop
On Friday evening at 5 p.m. registration will begin for Rethink Church for congregations. Dinner will be served at 6 p.m., followed by a panel discussion and entertainment.

Saturday will begin with worship at 9 a.m., and will include a full day of topics, such as Welcoming as a Lifestyle; Identity; Unique Characteristics of Seekers Ages 18-34; Discover/Design/Do; Children and Young People's Ministries, and more. The afternoon will include breakout sessions.

Registration is $40 for an individual, $125 for groups of four to seven attending from the same congregation and $200 for eight or more attending from the same congregation. Groups of 20 or more are asked to contact Kathryn Witte at kwitte@umcneb.org to receive special pricing and to ensure that enough materials are available. Payment is due on the day of the event; make checks payable to "Conference Treasurer."

Register online via the link below, use the registration form included in the Training-of-Trainers document, or fill out the attached registration form and mail it to the Nebraska UM Conference Center, attn: Rethink Church Registration, 3333 Landmark Cir., Lincoln, NE 68504. The registration deadline is Tuesday, March 16.

Also attached below is a list of lodging options in the Springfield area.
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Community meal and conversation on God's Renewed Creation on March 26 at Lincoln First UMC, Peacemaking Workshop to follow

All are invited to join Bishop Ann B. Sherer-Simpson for a meal and conversation about the Council of Bishops' document God's Renewed Creation, on Friday, March 26 at 5 p.m. in the West Vestry at Lincoln First UMC, 2723 N. 50th St. (Enter through the north parking lot door, straight down the hall and up the stairs, the room to the right.) If you would like to join the group, please RSVP to Joyce Rivera at 402-323-8849, no later than Monday, March 22. A free will offering for the meal will be taken.

The bishops begin their pastoral letter with these words, "God's creation is in crisis. We, the Bishops of The United Methodist Church, cannot remain silent while God's people and God's planet suffers. This beautiful natural world is a loving gift from God, the Creator of all things seen and unseen. God has entrusted its care to all of us, but we have turned our backs on God and on our responsibilities. Our neglect, selfishness, and pride have fostered: pandemic poverty and disease, environmental degradation, and the proliferation of weapons and violence. Despite these interconnected threats to life and hope, God's creative work continues. Despite the ways we all contribute to these problems, God still invites each one of us to participate in the work of renewal. We must begin the work of renewing creation by being renewed in our own hearts and minds. We cannot help the world until we change our way of being in it."

The document can be downloaded in its entirety at www.hopeandaction.org. The gathering is co-sponsored by the Conference Risk-taking Mission and Justice Ministries, the Blue River District, the Peacemaking Workshop committee and Lincoln First UMC.

All who attend the dinner are invited to stay for the Peacemaking Workshop at First UMC at 7 p.m. The workshop will feature acclaimed National Geographic photographer, and Lincoln resident, Joel Sartore. For more information about the event, visit the link below.
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Dr. Marcia McFee

Don't miss the Marcia McFee workshop at Lincoln Trinity UMC on April 16-17

Dr. Marcia McFee, author, professor, preacher, artist and worship designer and leader, will be presenting a workshop on creating dynamic worship for all churches at Lincoln Trinity United Methodist Church, 7130 Kentwell Lane, on April 16 and 17.

The evening of Friday, April 16, will feature worship and discussion with McFee from 7-9 p.m. Saturday's events will begin with registration at 8:30 a.m.; there will be four sessions throughout the day, two in the morning and two in the afternoon. Among the session topics are "Creating Worship with Deep Soul" and "The Rhythms of Liturgy and Life." The workshop will conclude at 3:30 p.m. The complete schedule is attached below.

. The cost for an individual to attend is $45; for teams of three or more the cost is $30. Lunch will be served. Register online or call Lincoln Trinity UMC at 402-435-2946. Registration is limited, so don't wait, register now!

McFee will also be leading worship at Lincoln Trinity UMC on Sunday, April 18, at 10:30 a.m.; the general public is invited to attend.

McFee is committed to teaching the nuts and bolts of worship in an interactive, fun and inspiring way that enables anyone to return home and create a spirit-filled encounter with God for their church service. She has provided worship design and leadership at numerous national and regional gatherings, and also specializes in designing and leading conference worship. Most recently, she designed and led 22 worship services over a 10-day period for the international quadrennial General Conference of The United Methodist Church. To learn more about her, visit her Web site, linked below.
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Dr. Amy-Jill Levine

New Testament scholar to speak at First-Plymouth in Lincoln on April 22

Dr. Amy-Jill Levine, professor of New Testament studies at Vanderbilt University Divinity, in Nashville, Tenn., will combine historical-critical rigor, literary-critical sensitivity, and a frequent dash of humor at her two lectures at First-Plymouth Congregational Church in Lincoln. On Thursday, April 22, at 7 p.m., she will talk about "Jesus, the Jewish Story Teller." On Friday, April 23 (time and cost TBA) she will present a workshop for educators and clergy on anti-Jewish preaching and teaching.

Levine has held office in the Society of Biblical Literature, the Catholic Biblical Association (she is presently the New Testament book review editor for the Catholic Biblical Quarterly), and the Association for Jewish Studies. She is a self-described "Yankee Jewish feminist who teaches in a predominantly Protestant divinity school in the buckle of the Bible belt."

She is the author of "The Misunderstood Jew: The Church and the Scandal of the Jewish Jesus," the edited collection; "The Historical Jesus in Context;" and the 14-volume series "Feminist Companions to the New Testament and Early Christian Writings."

Levine received her Ph.D. from Duke University, and honorary doctorates from the University of Richmond, the Episcopal Theological Seminary of the Southwest, and the University of South Carolina-Upstate. Her rich, humorous lectures will be filled with a great deal of knowledge. For more information, contact Tammy Alvis at 402-476-7565 or tammy@firstplymouth.org.
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Camp Fontanelle holding Free Easter Family Fun day on March 28

Camp Fontanelle, located near Nickerson, Neb., is hosting a fun-filled family day in celebration of Easter, on Sunday, March 28, from 2-6 p.m.

All activities are free and include:
- Egg dyeing: Bring your own boiled eggs or we can boil them for you. Also bring your favorite egg decorations; dye and crayons will be provided.
- Tree climbing for eggs: Climb 40 feet off of the ground to hunt for eggs, from 2-5 p.m. weather permitting. Climbs are limited, so sign up for climbing upon arrival. All minors will need to have a tree climbing waiver form signed prior to climbing. Forms can be downloaded at Camp Fontanelle's Web site, www.campfontanelle.com, and be signed by parents prior to arrival. Forms will also be available to sign the day of the event, but parents/guardians must be present.
- Laser tag: For older kids and adults, from 4-6 p.m., in groups of 15 to 30, weather/mud permitting.
- Egg hunts will be by age, with children 4 and under starting at 2:30 p.m.

For further information on the day's events, view the attached schedule; for driving directions to Camp Fontanelle, visit the camp's Web site, www.campfontanelle.com, or call 402-478-4296 or 402-459-0686.
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Camps in need of summer staff

Do you know of someone who is looking for a summer job that will provide purpose and meaning? Do you know of someone at least 19 years of age who loves to work with kids of all ages, or who might be an education major looking for opportunities to teach? Do you know of someone who likes variety in their days, filled with adventure? Do you know someone who wants to grow in leadership and faith in a community of faith?

A full-time, paid program assistant "job" might be the one for this someone that you know. Camps Comeca (near Cozad), Norwesca (in Chadron) and Fontanelle (near Nickerson) are all hiring. Check out their individual Web sites, linked below, for more information, for job descriptions and to apply.
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The Rev. Jason Kennedy (far left) and members of the Bellevue St. James West UMC worship team lift up their voices to the Lord during a Sunday morning worship service.

Bellevue St. James West UMC takes another leap of faith

St. James West United Methodist Church is the new church plant that could. Now in its third full year, the second worship site to St. James UMC in Bellevue, Neb., has already gone through some trying times. After being led to its official launch in September 2006 by then Associate Pastor Russ Tompkins, the worship site witnessed a major transition in leadership. Tompkins was reappointed as the new senior pastor at St. James, and the new worship site was already in need of its second pastor.

The Rev. Jason Kennedy, fresh out of seminary, was appointed to St. James. Primarily attending to the West worship site, this was his first taste of formal ministry. The hope was that Kennedy could continue the dream of the new plant and lead it further in its growth and spirituality. Although attendance had reached a plateau with averages in the mid-70s, there was much energy and passion still bubbling in the hearts of the West worshipers.

To read this story in its entirety, visit the Conference Web site, linked below.
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The communion set from East Avenue UMC in York, Neb. The church closed in 2007, but its communion set has found a new home in Sudan.

Communion set from York East Avenue UMC finds new home in Sudan

Though it's a somber occasion when a church closes its doors for good, there are always opportunities for something positive to grow—the church is more than just a building after all. And nothing could illustrate this more clearly than a communion set from the East Avenue UMC in York, Neb.

After East Avenue closed its doors in 2007, the set was sent to the Nebraska United Methodist Conference Center for safe storage. Its story could be stuck here, an indefinite pause amid boxes of copier paper and office supplies, but the Holy Spirit keeps moving...

To read this story in its entirety, visit the Conference Web site, linked below.
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Confirmation Day 2010 began with worship, including baptismal renewal, Holy Communion and a blessing from Bishop Ann B. Sherer-Simpson. Here, Sherer-Simpson calls the confirmands forth to receive their special blessing.

Confirmation Day 2010 an enriching experience for all

By Rev. Pauletta Lehn, Nebraska Wesleyan University campus minister

On Saturday, Feb. 20, 158 confirmands from across the state participated in Confirmation Day 2010, a connectional opportunity offered by the Nebraska Conference and Nebraska Wesleyan University (NWU). Among the factors that made the experience "really neat," as one participant put it, was the collaborative leadership, diverse music and a bunny.

Standing in front of the baptismal font during worship, the Rev. Jesse Foster, making his debut with youth as the new Conference director of Christian leadership development, talked about first feeling called to serve when he was a child.

Representing Nebraska United Methodist Camps, Derek Bergman of Camp Fontanelle spoke of finding God while in fellowship around a campfire, as he stood holding the now famous bunny, an inhabitant of Camp Fontanelle.

Director of Risk-taking Mission and Justice Ministries Carol Windrum and Erin Outson, a recent NWU graduate who is currently interning with the General Board of Church and Society in Washington, D.C., had the crowd jumping around while learning about charity and justice and putting faith into action.

"I've enjoyed learning more about our heritage and getting to know people from other Nebraska churches," noted an adult youth worker on the evaluation. Balloons and the Holy Spirit, paint and baptismal renewal, and a faith-inspired scavenger hunt at NWU were among the fun activities of the day. Each confirmand added their mark to a colorful baptismal bowl, symbolizing the layers of diverse gifts and calls in the church (view a photo of the bowl, attached below). There was also an opportunity for youth and adults to share confirmation experiences or local church traditions that have been transformative, effective or inspirational in their own lives.

Overall, the Confirmation Day tradition proves to be an enriching, collaborative experience that celebrates our connection to one another and blesses all of us on our faith journeys.
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Pastor Jeri Soens (right) of Hemingford UMC works with Epworth Village Learning Center teacher Kathy Highstreet. Soens travels around the Conference doing "Rethink Children's Ministries" workshops, featuring her many puppets.

Rethink Church workshop for Children and Young People's Ministries in Lincoln on March 13, in Mullen on April 10

The Rethink Church workshop for Children and Young People's Ministries is a day of discovering how to do children's ministries outside of the Sunday school room. These workshops are led by Pastor Jeri Soens of Hemingford UMC; she employs puppets to help her teach.

Aldersgate United Methodist Church in Lincoln is sponsoring a Rethink Children's Ministries workshop on Saturday, March 13, from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Registration is $20 per person or $30 for unlimited attendees from the same church. The deadline for registration is Wednesday, March 10. See the attached flyer for more information.

Mullen UMC, in Mullen, Neb., is sponsoring a Rethink Children's Ministries workshop on Saturday, April 10, from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. (MT).

Registration is $20 per person or $30 for unlimited attendees from the same church. The deadline for registration is Wednesday, April 5, but early registration is encouraged and happily accepted. See the attached flyer for more information.
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Registration is still open for Five Day Academy for Spiritual Formation, April 11-16

The Five Day Academy for Spiritual Formation is a retreat for lay and clergy persons of all denominations who hunger for spiritual growth. The retreat format enables participants to enjoy spiritual nurturing in the quiet and serene setting of the Saint Benedict Center near Schuyler, Neb. The academy will be April 11-16; this year's faculty features Rabbi David Horowitz and Marilyn McEntyre. Register at www.nebraskafiveday.com.
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North Platte First UMC offering "Created by God" education weekend for 5th-8th graders and their parents, April 9-10

North Platte First United Methodist Church will be offering a parent/youth human sexuality education weekend on April 9-10. The church is opening this event to area families who would be interested in attending.

The Created by God curriculum is a Friday evening and all day Saturday event for 5th-8th graders and their parents. It is a study of human sexuality with an ecumenical Christian foundation. The youth will be divided into small groups, according to age and grade. Created by God offers both parents and youth opportunities to learn, grow and celebrate that we are wonderfully created by God and that we are called to be responsible in our living. It emphasizes how sexuality fits into God's plan for human relationships. It focuses on creating an atmosphere where parents and youth can communicate with each other and work on decision making skills. In addition, it provides an arena where accurate information and proper terminology can be gained and practiced.

Registration is due by March 17 for planning purposes; groups are limited in size. Families can contact the church office, 308-532-1478, or visit the Web site, www.npfumc.org, for more information or to register. The schedule/registration form is attached below.
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Gateway District sponsoring Youth Outreach Lock-in at Camp Comeca on April 1

The Gateway District is sponsoring a Youth Outreach Lock-In at Camp Comeca, from 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, April 1, until 10 a.m. on Friday, April 2. This event is for youth in grades 7-12. Registration begins at 7:30 p.m. in the Wilson Center. There will be swimming, speakers and a variety of fun activities; the United Campus Ministry praise band will also perform.

The cost is $20 per youth. Breakfast and snacks will be served. The registration form is attached; please fill it out and send, along with $20 per youth who will be attending, to the Gateway District office, P.O. Box 995, Kearney, NE 68848. The deadline to register is Friday, March 26. Also attached below is a health waiver that will need to be filled out and turned in when you sign in on April 1; please do not forget to bring it, it is required in order to attend. Come join in the fun and fellowship!
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Elkhorn Valley District offering Basic and Advanced Lay Speaking Courses in April

The Elkhorn Valley District is offering a Basic Lay Speaking Course on the evening of Friday, April 16, and all day Saturday, April 17, at Plainview United Methodist Church, 103 W. Woodland Ave., Plainview, Neb.

This course is for all individuals who serve in The United Methodist Church with compassion, commitment and skill, and who are wishing to inmprove their leadership ability. The cost to participate is $20 per person, which covers course materials and lunch on Saturday. Please fill out and submit the attached registration form, along with a check made payable to Elkhorn Valley District, to Elkhorn Valley District office, P.O. Box 1283, Norfolk, NE 68702-1283. The registration deadline is April 2. The materials will be mailed to you, it is requested that you read them prior to the start of the course.

An Advanced Lay Speaking Course on stewardship will be held on the evening of Friday, April 30, and all day Saturday, May 1, at Osmond UMC, 601 N. State St., Osmond, Neb.

This course is for people who have completed a Basic Lay Speaking Course and wish to continue their education; it is designed to assist participants in developing a holistic understanding of stewardship. Course instructors will be the Rev. Carol Jean Stapleton and Judy Carlson, CLS. The cost to participate is $35 per person, which covers course materials and a light lunch on Saturday. Please fill out and submit the attached registration form, along with a check made payable to Elkhorn Valley District, to Elkhorn Valley District office, P.O. Box 1283, Norfolk, NE 68702-1283. The registration deadline is April 16. The materials will be mailed to you, it is requested that you read them prior to the start of the course.

Scholarship funds may be available; please check with your local church.
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Great West District offering Advanced Lay Speaking Course on April 23-24

The Great West District will offer an Advanced Lay Speaking Course titled "Lay speakers discover spiritual gifts," on Friday evening, April 23 and all day Saturday, April 24, at North Platte First UMC, 1600 West E St., North Platte, Neb.

This course will focus on acquiring a better understanding of the church and its ministry needs; learning what it means to be a minister; doing the work of Christ in the church and in the world; and being more fully equipped to lead others in exploring and using their spiritual gifts. The course leaders are the Rev. Bonnie McCord and Ardeen McCord, CLS. The cost to participate is $35, which covers course materials and lunch and snacks on Saturday. Please fill out and submit the attached registration form, along with a check made payable to Great West District, to Lay Speaker Training, c/o Great West District office, P.O. Box, 56, Ogallala, NE 69153. The registration deadline is April 16; the class is limited to the first 12 registrations.

Scholarship funds may be available; please check with your local church.
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United Methodists invited to "Change the World" the weekend of April 24-25

What if, on one weekend all around the world, United Methodists came together to work with their local communities? What if, as we serve people locally, we unite globally to eliminate a preventable, treatable disease that kills one child every 30 seconds?

On April 24-25, United Methodists around the world are invited to participate in "Change the World," a weekend event that coincides with World Malaria Day on Sunday, April 25. Congregations are invited to schedule a community-based workday, and use World Malaria Day sermon starters on Sunday (see link below). A special offering is encouraged to support the fight against malaria.

The Rev. Mike Slaughter, senior pastor at Ginghamsburg UMC in Tipp City, Ohio, has written a book called "Change the World: Recovering the Mission and Message of Jesus." He emphasizes, "As The United Methodist Church, we have worried too much about getting numbers into our churches instead of getting the people in our churches out into the world in relative ways. Even our smallest churches can have incredible impact when they leave their four walls to serve the needs of their neighbors, alongside of their neighbors."

To get involved, plan a work project in your community on April 24, or find a project near you by visiting www.rethinkchurch.org/changetheworld. If you already have an event planned, be sure to register your project on this site as well. There are also a plethora of resources available to help you promote your event.
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United Methodist Ministries in Omaha hosting "Change the World" events on April 24

Your congregation is invited to "Change the World" on April 24. United Methodist Ministries (UMM) is hosting a day of service for youth and adults in the metro-Omaha area.

The day will begin at Hanscom Park UMC, 4444 Frances St., with team check-in from 8:15 a.m. to 9:00 a.m., followed by a short gathering time. Teams will be assigned to specific local service agencies for hands-on mission work. The day will conclude by 3 p.m., following a closing worship time.

Two participation options are available. The first is "Global Youth Service Day" projects for youth grades 6-12; adult leaders are required for every five participating youth. The second option is "Impact Community" projects for adults 18 and over.

Transportation to service sites will be provided. Housing is available for teams from outside of the metro-Omaha area. Cost for participation is $15 per person, which includes a commemorative t-shirt and lunch.

Pre-registration is required. Each registration form is provided below and is due by April 1. For more information, contact Lisa Maupin at 402-898-9862 or lmaupin@bigmuddyumc.org.
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Save the Date—Omaha First United Methodist Church hosting "Box City" to raise awareness of the homeless, on April 30

Omaha First United Methodist Church will be hosting an event called "Box City: Why Does Anyone Have to Be Homeless?" This social action will bring awareness of the homeless through participants sleeping in cardboard boxes and writing letters to civic leaders.

This event will take place Friday, April 30, on the front lawn of Omaha First UMC, located at 7020 Cass St. Check-in time will be 6:30 p.m., followed by dinner at the "food kitchen" at First UMC. The cost to participate is $5 per person plus five canned good items. All proceeds will benefit the Pearl Food Pantry and Youth Emergency Services. There will be guest speakers and live music. Each person should bring their own box and are asked to decorate them before arrival, as there will be an award for best decorated box, as well as for most canned food collected.

It is asked that there be one adult per every seven youth. This event will go on regardless of the weather conditions. The registration deadline is April 21. For more information, or to register, contact Becky Jones, Omaha First UMC youth coordinator/membership development, at 402-556-6262, x1005 or becky.jones@fumcomaha.org. View the attached flyer for further details.
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Alvo UMC to host Country Music Show on March 20

Alvo United Methodist Church is hosting a Country Music Show on March 20, from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Alvo UMC is located at 2nd and Harrison, in Alvo, Neb. The show will feature local performers including the Rev. Murry Johnston. There is no admission fee, a free will offering will be taken and non-perishable items for the Eagle Alvo Food Bank will be collected. Lunch will be served, with all proceeds going to support church programs. Come out for a day full of music, fellowship and food. See the attached flyer for further details, or contact Karen Lamb at klamb45@hotmail.com.
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Lincoln Grace UMC to hold live dramatization of da Vinci's "The Last Supper" on April 1

Grace United Methodist Church in Lincoln will present a living dramatization of Leonardo da Vinci's "The Last Supper" on Thursday, April 1, at 7 p.m. Grace UMC is located at 27th and R Streets, in Lincoln. View the attached flyer for further details, or contact Ricki Barber at 309-531-7507.
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Nebraska United Methodist Men invited to road trip to Kansas for rally on April 10

To all members of United Methodist Men (UMM) in Nebraska, you are invited to go on a road trip to McPherson, Kan., on Saturday, April 10, to attend the 2010 Spiritual Rally. You'll make new friends and hear Kansas Area Bishop Scott Jones and the new General Secretary of UMM Gilbert Hanke speak. There will also be various workshops, musical entertainment and a communion service. The registration fee is $20; after April 2 it is $25. Connect with two of the men who are going: Dave Mendyk of West Point, at 402-372-2149 and Don Russell of Sutton, at 402-773-4596. See the attached flyer for more information. This will be a fun and meaningful trip!
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Omaha's Hanscom Park UMC holding craft show and garage sale on April 17

Mark your calendar, Hanscom Park United Methodist Church in Omaha is holding a spring craft show and garage sale on Saturday, April 17, from 9 a.m.-3p.m. Hanscom Park UMC is located at 4444 Frances St, just one block south of 45th and Center Streets.

Among the items for sale are used books and gift baskets; there will also be a bake sale and lunch options. All proceeds will benefit the various worldwide missions supported by The United Methodist Church. For more information, view the attached flyer, or visit www.hanscomparkchurch.org.
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Native American Ministries Sunday—April 18

Native American Ministries Sunday recognizes and supports the contributions of Native Americans to the church and to society. The observance, approved by the 1988 General Conference, is one of six special churchwide Sunday offerings.

For tips on observing Native American Ministries Sunday, visit the link below. Follow the second link to order offering materials or to donate now.
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The 2008 NUMB Ride participants.

NUMB 2010 registration and event information

The cold may make you feel numb, but we're feeling NUMB 2010, and we hope to see you this summer!

NUMB stands for Nebraska United Methodist Bike Ride for Hunger, and this year we will celebrate 15 years of feeding hungry populations all over the world. The organization has contributed more than $400,000 to alleviate hunger since the inaugural ride in 1996. NUMB also benefits the hungry in Nebraska and is sponsored by the Nebraska Conference Board of Mission Outreach's hunger committee.

This year's ride will be a 250-mile loop tour starting and ending in Hastings. The official start of NUMB 2010 is the Saturday evening Rider's Meeting, but for those arriving early to Hastings, there will be an optional pre-NUMB loop ride on Saturday morning of about 50 miles. NUMB riders leave Hastings on Sunday morning and head north to the Tom Osborne Freeway and then east to Central City. The trip from Central City brings NUMB to a new milestone; on this day we will go through Hamilton, York and Seward counties, completing the last three of Nebraska's 93 counties that NUMB has ridden through since its inception in 1996. We spend the night as guests in Seward; from Seward we will head to Geneva for an overnight stay. We leave Geneva for our tour conclusion, with a ride back to the starting point in Hastings.

Attached below are an informational flyer and the registration form. The forms are also available on NUMB's Web site, www.numbride.org.

Glen Morey of Bike Ride Events Services provided massages last year and will be offering additional services this year. See the attached flyer for more information. He can be contacted at glenma21499@peoplepc.com, or visit his Web site, www.eventsbikerideservices.com.

Pass this information on to your biking buddies! If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact us, at numbride@hotmail.com. Find us on Facebook too, just search for "NUMB."
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Save the Date—Youth Annual Conference 2010, June 8-12

The 2010 Youth Annual Conference (YAC) will be Tuesday, June 8, through Saturday, June 12, at Nebraska Wesleyan University (NWU) in Lincoln. YAC is open to any youth who have graduated from the eighth grade through graduating high school seniors. Each district is asked to send registrations for two (2) youth to represent their district as members of the Annual Conference.

This year's theme is "Our Way of Life," taken from the Apostle Paul's words to the community of faith in Corinth: "For we are what God has made us, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand to be our way of life."

During their time at YAC, participants will be discovering their God-given strengths and gifts. Each youth will take part in the "Strengths Finder" assessment created by the Gallup Organization, with the help of the Rev. Dr. Al Winseman, a United Methodist clergyman who is the Religious and Social Trends editor for Gallup. Winseman will help the youth understand what their strengths mean for their life and their ministry. There will also be small groups for spiritual growth, and an entire day set aside to do mission and outreach in the Lincoln community.

Check-in begins at 1:30 p.m. on Tuesday, June 8, at NWU. The residence halls where attendees will be staying are located off of 53rd and Madison, on the north side of campus. The conference will end the morning of Saturday, June 12.

The registration form, health waiver and youth covenant can all be found on the Youth Ministries page of the Conference Web site, linked below. Contact the Rev. Michael Patzloff at 402-553-3312 for more information.
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Lessons on stewardship from Lincoln St. Mark's UMC: Kids say the darndest things

In an ongoing series, Lincoln St. Mark's United Methodist Church is producing short videos on stewardship. Our thanks to St. Mark's UMC and producer Brad Penner for sharing these inspiring videos.

Kids say the darnedest things. Things that surprise, amaze, and provoke. In "Have you ever?" youth from St. Mark's ask and answer that question in some heartwarming and uplifting ways. Check it out on UM-TUBE, the link is below.

The facilities at St. Mark's provide opportunities to serve the community and congregation in many different ways. In "Facilities for faith" Director of Event Management Jim Tettenborn, who schedules events large and small at St. Mark's, explains the ultimate mission is to make disciples for Christ. Click on the link below to view this video on UM-TUBE.
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Inaugural Nebraska Conference HIV-AIDS Task Force grant awarded to Grand Island Trinity UMC

The Nebraska United Methodist Conference HIV-AIDS Task Force is the local body that determines where the Conference's portion of the Global AIDS Fund Advance is distributed. General Conference 2004 pledged $1 per United Methodist member in support of Global AIDS relief and education. General Conference 2004 also approved the motion that 25 percent be allocated to the local conference.

Titled "Working for an AIDS-free World Grant," the award of $866 was made in January to Trinity United Methodist Church in Grand Island, to assist with its 2010 Emergency HIV-AIDS Fund.

Twenty five percent of the Global AIDS Fund Advance offering in Nebraska goes to local AIDS projects through this new grant. The grant will help G.I. Trinity assist clients of the Nebraska AIDS Project (NAP) in Kearney with local medical emergencies. Trinity UMC has partnered with NAP to provide needed support and donations to help their clients.

The next Global AIDS Fund offering in Nebraska is scheduled for Sunday, Dec. 5, 2010 (following World AIDS Day on Dec. 1). Application deadline for the 2011 grant cycle is Nov. 1, 2010. Information on how to apply will be forthcoming.
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Seminary scholarship applications to be accepted beginning April 1

Beginning April 1, the Nebraska United Methodist Foundation will accept application materials for the nine seminary scholarships it administers for students planning to pursue careers in the ministry within Nebraska. These scholarships are:

- The Alva Clark Seminary Scholarship
- The Cowles United Methodist Church Memorial Scholarship
- The Alice Kruse Ministerial Scholarship
- The Alice Kruse Seminary Scholarship
- The Baldwin F. and Amy L. Kruse Scholarship
- The Verl and Sylvia Miller Memorial Scholarship
- The Albert R. Murdoch Ministerial Scholarship
- The Andrew and Nevabelle Howe Scholarship
- The Scahill Family Scholarship

The deadline for application submissions is June 30, with the exception of the Baldwin F. and Amy L. Kruse Scholarship, which is due by May 31.

For more information and printable application materials, please visit the Foundation's Web site, linked below.
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Reminder: InfoServ changes effective April 1

InfoServ, the official information service of The United Methodist Church, will become exclusively an e-mail and online information service effective April 1, 2010. At that time, telephone support services will be discontinued. Customers will be able to submit questions via e-mail at infoserv@umcom.org. Answers to the most frequently asked questions are also available online at www.infoserv.umc.org. During an initial transition period, callers will be able to leave a message and callback number. Other customer-friendly options such as live chat are also being explored.
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Lincoln Grace UMC seeking organist/pianist

Grace United Methodist Church in Lincoln is in need of someone to fill the full-time position of organist/pianist, effective April 5. This person would need to be available for the 10:00 Sunday morning worship service and also for 7:30 p.m. rehearsals every Wednesday. Salary to be discussed at time of interview. If interested, call the church office at 402-435-1606 (leave message) or e-mail graceumclincoln@yahoo.com to arrange an interview.
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Malcolm UMC seeking furniture for Sunday school area, short pews for sanctuary

Malcolm UMC, located in the Blue River District, is in need of some new tables and chairs for their Sunday school area. They are also in need of a few short pews to create more seating in their sanctuary; a pew that holds two or three people is ideal.

If you have any of these items and would be willing to donate them to the Malcolm UMC, contact Dave Duckett at 402-440-0285.
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Special Olympics USA National Games coming to Lincoln this summer, volunteers needed

Lincoln, Neb., will be the site of the 2010 Special Olympics USA National Games this summer; more than 3,000 athletes will participate in 13 sporting events over a six-day period, July 18-23. Approximately 8,000 volunteers are needed to make the games possible; volunteer positions include security, event logistics, welcome committee, delegations services, awards, receptions, ceremonies, information services, technology, cheering committee and more. The volunteer requirements are:

- Must be 16 years of age or older
- Each volunteer must have their own e-mail account
- Participate in volunteer training
- All volunteers are subject to volunteer screening
- Optimal: Two days or more volunteer commitment (approx. two eight-hour shifts July 17-24)
- Minimum: One day volunteer commitment (approx. one eight-hour shift July 17-24)

Go to www.2010specialolympics.org for more information or to sign up!
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Oklahoma Area hosting "Sisterhood of the Travelin' Shoes," a retreat for women in ministry, April 12-13

All women in ministry across the South Central Jurisdiction are invited to gather in Oklahoma City on April 12-13 to celebrate the "Sisterhood of the Travelin' Shoes." Bishop Judith Craig will be our guide as we kick off our shoes, relax, worship, eat and share together the joys of ministry. The event itself is basically 24 hours, from 1:00 p.m. on Monday, April 12, until 2:30 p.m. on Tuesday, April 13, but you are invited to come early or stay late for some personal Sabbath time after Holy Week.

St. Luke's UMC in downtown Oklahoma City will be the site of the conference activities. The Courtyard Marriot in Bricktown is the retreat hotel and is offering the special rate of $109 per night for up to four people in a room. The hotel's phone number is 405-232-2290. Reservations must be made by March 29 (code: Women in Ministry).

Registration for the retreat is just $50, which can be sent to the Rev. Jeannie Himes at 208 S. Douglas Blvd., Midwest City, OK 73130-4208. For more information, e-mail revjeankc@aol.com.

Deacons, elders, retirees, lay pastors, students, deaconesses, diaconals and lay missioners are all invited. Students may register for $25; other partial scholarships are available.

For more information, view the attached flyer/registration form.
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Worship resources from the General Board of Discipleship

The worship section of the General Board of Discipleship's Web site has a plethora of resources for worship planning—everything from Lenten and Easter hymns and responses, to hymns and responses to the earthquakes in Haiti and Chile and resources for Women's History Month.

Check out these and more at www.gbod.org/worship.
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