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In churches across southwestern Idaho and eastern Oregon, United Methodists are in the midst of a month-long March on Hunger! .
Dates, schedules, links - Look here for everthing about Annual Conference 2013.
As the nation reacts to tragady in Connecticut and Oregon, the church responds.
Coffee, soul and pastoristas. This coffee spot is Tigard is more than a cup of joe.
This year, as part of the church’s Living Lent Ministry Opportunities Program, the First United Methodist Church of Medford set a goal of folding 2,000 peace cranes in order to present a thousand cranes to two local elementary schools. The church’s Living Lent planning team thought it would be a good idea to do the peace cranes with their partner school, Jackson Elementary.
In the church’s ongoing relationship with Jackson Elementary they have contributed school supplies, provided 100 Christmas dinners to families from the school that are in need and, this past winter, made and donated 350 winter hats to the students. The initial goal of 1,000 cranes was raised to 2,000 and the church added another school where many of the church’s children attend.
Origami peace cranes come from an ancient Japanese legend that promises that anyone who folds 1,000 origami cranes will be granted a wish by a crane. The thousand origami cranes were popularized through the story of Sadako Sasaki, a Japanese girl who was two years old when she was exposed to radiation from the atomic bombing of Hiroshima during World War II. Sasaki soon developed leukemia and, at age 12, inspired by the senbazuru legend, began making origami cranes with the goal o
f making one thousand. In a popular version of the story as told in the book Sadako and the Thousand Paper Cranes, she folded only 644 before her death. The Sadako story was shared with the congregation at the beginning of Lent as a way of introducing the idea and praying for peace.
According to Pastor John Tucker, “The idea was to present our community partners with symbols of peace and support as our culture deals with the growing problem of violence.” When the congregation responded by folding 5,000 peace cranes on Sundays during Lent and in their homes throughout the week, three more schools were added to the original plan and after displaying the peace cranes on Easter Sunday, a team from the church presented the five schools with a thousand peace cranes each. The Origami Club at the Hoover Elementary School helped fold some of the cranes and when we presented the cranes back to the school the students were convinced that they could tell which cranes they had folded.
There was lots of laughing Easter Sunday at “The Four Churches” service. Life is good, and the Resurrection is real. 200 people, toddlers to elders, gathered at Tillamook UMC to worship together--Congregationists, Episcopalians, Lutherans, and United Methodists, singing their hearts out, celebrating the new thing God is creating among them.
It wasn’t so joyful a few years ago. All four congregations (St. John’s United Church of Christ, St Albans Episcopal Church, St Peter’s Lutheran Church, and Tillamook UMC) had suffered along with the community as the recession deepened and jobs disappeared. Each had seen their membership decline, and their energy for ministry dwindle. “I’ll be honest with you,” says the Rev. Jerry Jefferies, who pastors our UM congregation, as well as two others. “This began as a matter of survival.”
Beginning in 2010, under Jefferies’ leadership, The Four Churches began to share their ministry intentionally. They co-operate in youth ministries, with an all-church choir, and in worship together each fifth Sunday. They share a pictorial directory and publish one monthly newsletter, so everyone is included. But their greatest success is in their combined efforts to feed the people of Tillamook, body and spirit. Over 500 meals are served each month, and 6,000 lunches are packed for school children each summer. The Four Churches story was featured on the front page of the Oregonian on Easter Sunday, to the delight of the congregation.
What’s next for The Four Churches? “I don’t know,” said an Easter worshipper, “but it’s going to be good!”
Another article about the churches cooperation was featured in the Oregonian newspaper Easter sunday.
* Peg Lofsvold is the District Superintendent of the Cascadia District of the Oregon-Idaho Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church
BOISE, IDAHO – Members and friends of United Methodist churches across the region will spend the month of April raising awareness of hunger and collecting food to share with people in need.
During the second annual March on Hunger, United Methodist churches will serve as collection points for food and monetary donations for the Idaho Food Bank and local food pantries. The month-long movement will begin March 31 – Easter Sunday – as the churches focus on loving their neighbors by feeding the hungry as Jesus commanded his followers to do.
Participants will make a one-mile march from the Cathedral of the Rockies to a hunger awareness rally at the Statehouse in Boise on Saturday, April 6. They will make a prayer walk around the capitol, and donations will be accepted.
Workshops to discuss justice issues related to problem of hunger being planned to help raise awareness of the causes and solutions for hunger.
“We’re stepping out to make a difference in our community and challenging others to join us in our efforts,” said the Rev. David Thompson, project coordinator and pastor at the United Methodist churches in Emmett and Sweet. “We’re working to increase awareness of the problem of hunger in Idaho and to encourage people of all faiths to participate in solutions to the problem. With all of us working together, we can make a difference in the lives of those who are most in need.”
Thompson noted that nearly one in six Idaho residents – and one in four children – is food insecure, meaning he or she is uncertain about having adequate food. Statistics released last week show that half of Idaho’s schoolchildren are eligible for free or reduced-price lunches.
In addition to donating food or money, people interested in participating can learn of opportunities to be involved longer term in the fight against hunger. Further information on volunteer projects such as community gardens can be found at www.marchonhunger.org.
“United Methodists believe that church is not just a place you go but also an action you take,” said Thompson. “We believe that faith and good works belong together, that faith should inspire service, and that what we believe must be confirmed by what we do. This is one opportunity for us to step out to confirm our beliefs.”
For more information, contact:
The Rev. David Thompson
Cell phone: (208) 866-6821
E-mail: dthomp2420@cableone.net
A partnership of necessity has become a focus of ministry for the United Methodist and Evangelical Lutheran Church in America congregations in Hood River, Oregon. Responding to shrinking congregations and the expenses of leadership, the congregations of Asbury United Methodist and Our Redeemer Lutheran churches began meeting together in March of 2011, rotating between the two church buildings. Rev. Andrew Wendle, who has served the Our Redeemer congregation since 2004, was appointed to the Asbury congregation in June of 2011. They now consider themselves one worshiping body, and agreed to a Joint Ministry Partnership to be joint stewards of ministry resources, people resources, and financial resources.
When members of both the Methodist and Lutheran congregations participated in the Oregon-Idaho conference’s Congregational Leadership Development classes, it led leaders of the Methodist congregation to look at the stewardship of maintaining a 100-year-old building for part-time use and see that was not where they were called by God. That realization has led to the sale of the building to a local businessman, and a renewed focus on partnership in ministry and 
reaching out to the community of Hood River County. The church will keep the proceeds of the sale for future capital projects. “While at times tearful, the vote was peaceful, forward thinking and courageous;” said Wendle, “this moves us forward to where God is calling.”
Dating back to the 1880’s, Asbury has a history of courage, including supporting Japanese-Americans who were persecuted and interned during World War II. Today that courage turns to working in partnership to plan and create an over 6,500 sq. ft. food bank warehouse and distribution center. Located on the Lutheran property, the center will serve the needs of the county. According to Wendle, “We look forward to demonstrating our commitment to the community with this project.”
A Decommissioning service will be held for the building on Sunday, March 24 at 3 p.m. The building is located at 616 State Street in Hood River.
January 1st 2013 ushered in the return of the circuit rider to North East Oregon. On that day, the United Methodist congregations of Elgin, Cove, La Grande, North Powder and Union strengthened their connection by becoming the North East Oregon (NEO) Circuit. This circuit is similar to the circuits of old in that a single Elder will make the rounds of the congregations, providing preaching, sacraments and administration. But, instead of each congregation functioning as a lonely mission outpost, the five churches will provide worship, ministry and music in a partnership of laity, Lay Persons Assigned, Certified Lay Servants, a retired elder and an active elder in full connection. Steve Wolff (pictured right), who has served three-quarter time at La Grande United Methodist Church for the past 18 months, has added one-quarter time as the circuit supervising pastor. When asked about this new ministry Steve responded, “I have been serving local churches for 22 years, and this is one of the most exciting ministries I’ve been involved in. At our 2012 Annual Conference, our Bishop reminded us just how essential each of our local congregations is. This is not a last chance option for any of these churches. This is a next chance model for how to do church everywhere.”
While efficient utilization of resources is a part of the model, the real key is to equip the laity to provide worship and disciple making ministries across the Grande Ronde Valley. The coordinating pastor will be based in the La Grande congregation, rotating through the circuit one Sunday a month preaching, teaching and providing sacraments. While distances are large (nearly 100 miles from one edge to edge), modern transportation allows for plenty of non-Sunday contact between the elder and the congregations. Lay Servants and Lay Assigned pastors will attend to regular preaching duties, with liturgists in each congregation providing the local anchor for each community’s worship. The circuit will also have a music director, Josh Peters, who will help develop and coordinate traveling ensembles to provide regular music in each setting. Administrative coordination will come through a council of Lay Leaders. According to District Superintendent, Kim Fields, “Though the supervising pastor will be based in the La Grande church, this is not a first step in a plan to merge churches or in any way dilute their individual identities. Each of the congregations has strengths to offer and role to fill in its local community. The plan is to maintain local identity while strengthening the United Methodist connection.”
(Click picture for larger image)
Members of Newtown United Methodist Church in Sandy Hook, Conn., are “still holding our breath” to learn the full impact of the Dec. 14 shooting at nearby Sandy Hook Elementary School, said the Rev. Mel Kawakami, the church’s senior pastor.
“We’re trying to keep our lines open,” he said. “We have already tried to reach out. We have communications circles that are trying to canvass our congregation.”
At least 27 are dead, including 18 children, according to the most recent news reports, in what is already one of the deadliest school shootings in U.S. history. The shooting came less than a week after a gunman killed two holiday shoppers across the country at an Oregon mall.
The Sandy Hook, Conn., church — which has about 600 members — is within walking distance of the elementary school. Kawakami said the church already is serving as a respite center for Red Cross first responders, and its sanctuary is open for prayer. The church also plans a prayer vigil at 7 p.m. EST Dec. 14.
“We are in the midst of Advent, and the light is coming,” Kawakami said. “And we are praying for the light.”
President Obama struggled with emotion in addressing with the tragedy.
“We’ve endured too many of these tragedies in the past few years. Each time I hear the news, I react not as president, but as a parent. That’s especially the case today,” he said. “Many of the victims were between 5 and 10 years of age. They had their entire lives ahead of them. … Our hearts are broken today.”
Prayers and reactions began appearing on social media right after the shooting.
“Years ago, on a Holy Land tour, I visited Rachel's tomb. People of all ages surrounded her tomb weeping and praying for their children,” wrote Deen Thompson, lay leader of Edgehill United Methodist Church in Nashville, Tenn., on Facebook. “Today this experience and words from the Bible become today's reality. ‘A voice was heard in Ramah, weeping and loud lamentation, Rachel weeping for her children; she refused to be comforted because they are no more.’ God help us...”
The Rev. Beth A. Richardson, editor of “Alive Now” magazine, published by Upper Room, offered this prayer: “Loving God, comfort your people in the midst of the tragedy of the school shooting in Newtown, Conn. Comfort all who mourn, God of Healing. We pray to you, Amen.”
The United Methodist Church is offering a prayer wall on Facebook.
The denomination’s communications agency, United Methodist Communications, also is planning to place messages of support and hope in local newspapers.
The United Methodist Board of Discipleship is offering resources for parents, teachers, and caregivers.
In addition, the United Methodist Publishing House’s Ministry Matters site has a resource page, “When Tragedy Strikes Children.”
*Heather Hahn, Joey Butler and Barbara Dunlap-Berg with United Methodist News Service contributed to this report.
Portland area clergy colloquy at Portland First UMC in the Fireplace Room from 12 noon to 2 p.m. Light lunch provided.
Host: Lowell Greathouse
“From Your Heart to Theirs – Delivering an Effective Sermon” is an Advanced Lay Servant (Speaker) class being offered May 18, June 1 and a mutually determined third session. The first two sessions will be at Hillsboro United Methodist Church, in Hillsboro, OR. Presenter is Susan Jensen.
In a workshop setting, participants will examine preparation, delivery, types of messages and resources for preparing a message. This advanced Lay Servant class may be taken as required credit or to advance a Lay Servant from Local to Certified status. Others are also welcome.
The class costs $20.00, which covers text, materials and snacks. Hillsboro UMC is located at 168 NE Lincoln St., two blocks north of the MAX line, in downtown Hillsboro. To register, please contact Susan Jensen by May 15, at 503-648-3040, or by email susan2.jensen2@frontier.com
Required for all clergy who are beginning a new appointment this year. Contact your District Superintendent or the Bishop's office for more information.
Board of Ordained Ministry Mtg.
This meeting will be held in Idaho at a location to be determined.
Is Your Church Contagious?
My friend Mark is really smart. So when he handed me the book Contagious: Why Things Catch On by Jonah Berger, I knew it was a must read. I took the opportunity to bring it along on a recent coast-to-coast flight. After warming up my intellect with People magazine (hey, don’t judge), I came away from reading Contagious inspired. Churches who are committed to spreading the Good News ought to read it as well.
Berger outlines six principles (STEPPS) that make things contagious (adapted here for us churchy types):
1. Social Currency: How do you look to others when you talk about your church or missions you sponsor? Because they like who you are and what they see, will others be inspired to be in partnership with you? Is your congregation involved in activities that make you passionate?
2. Triggers: How do we remind people to talk about our church or externally-focused projects? If someone in your town sees a backpack – will they think of your church’s backpack program? If someone hears the words “stamp out hunger,” does your church come to mind?
3. Emotion: How can the church craft messages and ideas that make people feel something? Is your church known as “God’s frozen chosen?” To be clear, that would be the opposite of “emotion.” Help your congregation experience something that gets their heart pumping, makes them smile, or even shed a tear – as Berger says “when we care, we share.”
4. Public: Can people outside the church see when you are engaging in desired behavior? In God talk: Don’t hide your lamp under a bushel.
5. Practical Value: What useful significance to every day life does your church offer to your congregation and community? Many people in our communities would be inspired to attend classes being offered by our congregations (think Financial Peace University and parenting programs) – if only they knew about them.
6. Stories: Any regular reader of this blog already knows the importance of telling your story. As Berger says, “We need to do more than just tell a great story…We need to make our message so integral to the narrative that people can’t tell the story without it.” What story is associated with your congregation?
But don’t let this very abbreviated list be the end. Contagious is chock full of great examples of how every day people made their ideas and products catch on. Each congregation has something that should make them “contagious.” What are you waiting for? Spread God’s love.
Cesie Delve Scheuermann is a consultant in stewardship, development, and grant writing. Over the past decade, while working as a volunteer and part-time consultant, she helped raise nearly $2 million dollars for numerous non-profit organizations. She served as the Oregon-Idaho Annual Conference Lay Leader from 2008-2012. Her position with the Conference is funded through a generous grant from the Collins Foundation. You can reach her at inspiringgenerosity@gmail.com.
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Five Ways to Make Your Church’s Message “Pop”
This week, the United Methodist General Board of Global Ministries unveiled a new infographic on Advance special gifts. You may have already seen it since it quickly made the rounds on Facebook and found its way into many email boxes. This may be the most successful marketing piece that GBGM has put out. Why is it so effective?
• You get the picture, literally, where your money is going.
• Something that is hard to understand suddenly is clear. The dreaded and often unfairly maligned apportionments fund The Advance’s overhead - thus allowing 100% of donations to go specific projects. That’s good use of money.
• There is momentum for the future. My denomination has a goal of eradicating malaria in the next few years. Now that’s inspiring.
• It’s invitational. “Let’s get moving!” is not the battle cry of a stodgy old denomination. United Methodists’ are doing something…and we are joyfully invited to participate.
• It is teeming with gratitude. From the final “thank you” to the listing of projects you and I have helped fund over the years, this moves us to want be a part of the Advance movement.
Decide how you can use the success of the GBGM infographic and make it work for your church. Don’t be intimidated by the professionals. Someone in your congregation can take pictures and maybe someone else can combine them with words of gratitude, a call to action, and evidence that what you are doing in the world is making a difference. You can make an equally inspiring flier. Don’t overthink it – just do it.
Cesie Delve Scheuermann is a consultant in stewardship, development, and grant writing. Over the past decade, while working as a volunteer and part-time consultant, she helped raise nearly $2 million dollars for numerous non-profit organizations. She served as the Oregon-Idaho Annual Conference Lay Leader from 2008-2012. Her position with the Conference is funded through a generous grant from the Collins Foundation. You can reach her at inspiringgenerosity@gmail.com.
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Giving Out of Obligation
I was back in school last week. Well, sort of. I spent four days in Seattle steeped in “Creating Congregational Cultures of Generosity” sponsored by the Pacific Northwest Annual Conference and the Northwest UM Foundation. We were very fortunate to have with us and learn from Dr. Bill Enright, Director of the Lake Institute on Faith & Giving, part of the Indiana University School of Philanthropy. What a great experience!
I am still on information overload (thankfully, no papers to write or tests to take!) but there was one set of statistics I keep reflecting on:
In one study, 89% of Presbyterians (or mainliners) said they gave to their congregation “Out of responsibility or obligation as a member of this church” compared to 6% of Presbyterians who said they gave “Because everything I have is God’s.”
Wow. There’s a spiritual disconnect going on.
You may legitimately ask, what’s the problem with people giving out of obligation if the bills are getting paid? If that is your understanding of the spiritual life and if your church doors are still open, albeit barely, then I guess it’s working for you.
However, if our call as Christ followers is to live a life centered on Jesus, then our giving needs to be out of gratitude and devotion to the One to whom all things belong. John Wesley so eloquently stated: “Not, how much of my money will I give to God, but how much of God’s money will I keep for myself.” Even better is 2 Corinthians 9:7 “Each of you must give as you have made up your mind, not reluctantly or under compulsion [or obligation?], for God loves a cheerful giver.”
How can you move people from “obligation-centered” to “spiritually-centered” giving?
• Preach more about what Jesus said regarding money and possessions
• Provide concrete examples of people who inspire you to live generously
• Encourage your congregation to read the Bible on a daily basis so that they can see for themselves what the Good Book says about generosity
• Make giving a joyous and celebratory experience
What a great day it will be when the next survey comes out and the statistics are reversed: 6% give out of obligation to the church and 89% give because “everything I have is a gift from God.” That will be a "hallelujah" moment, indeed.
Cesie Delve Scheuermann is a consultant in stewardship, development, and grant writing. Over the past decade, while working as a volunteer and part-time consultant, she helped raise nearly $2 million dollars for numerous non-profit organizations. She served as the Oregon-Idaho Annual Conference Lay Leader from 2008-2012. Her position with the Conference is funded through a generous grant from the Collins Foundation. You can reach her at inspiringgenerosity@gmail.com.
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“The Church is Only Interested in Money”
Author and avid Facebooker Diana Butler Bass recently posted this on her wall:
“On today's flight, I was sitting next to a 30-something fellow, married w/little kids. A former Catholic, he now goes to a small Protestant church with his family. Despite that, he is not satisfied. Told me that most churches are 1) overly interested in money; 2) too programmatic; 3) inauthentic; and 4) preach too much about politics instead of serving the poor…”
Each one of these points deserves its own discussion, but the one that (of course) piqued my interest was his #1 pet peeve: “churches are overly interested in money.” At workshops I ask, “What do you fear most about the topic of stewardship?” Time and time again I hear that 30-something’s refrain, “people will think we talk too much about money.”
What does this mean? As our dear brother Rev. Bill Mullette-Bauer says, “Jesus talked a lot about money.” When someone says the church talks too much about money, I mind moves immediately to the annoying and slick TV evangelist (you know the one I’m talking about) who constantly asks for cash to keep the show on the air.
Perhaps Diana’s seatmate had a similar experience – the pitch was the same but in a different context. I am guessing that this fellow was attending a church that was dying and the preacher was begging for funds to “keep the lights on.” No one, and I mean no one, wants to give to a sinking ship. It’s distressing for people in the pews to keep hearing “how money is tight” or “apportionments must be paid.” All that might be true, but if that’s the sole message about money, no wonder people view it negatively.
Because we are faithful followers (or are at least striving to be) of Jesus, and because Jesus talked about money and possessions nearly as much as he talked about love, it is our responsibility to challenge people in the pew with the reality of the Gospel. Some potential questions might be: As Christians, how should we look at money? What does Jesus say about possessions and what’s the implication for first-world believers? Besides talking theologically about money, also and always tell people how their hard-earned dollars are changing lives – inside and outside the church. That’s a far different message than pleading with people to fund a budget.
Some day, I pray we will get past the fear that someone will reject us because “we are overly interested in money,” especially if we are talking about money because we are preaching Jesus.
Follow-up: In January I posted I Do Exist! Getting the Thank you Letter Right where I kvetched about not receiving a thank you letter for a special memorial gift I sent. I am happy to report that last week, four months after I sent the letter, I received a very sweet, hand written thank you letter. This goes to show you that it’s never too late to say “thank you.” People remember and they notice.
Change and Online Giving
I am not a big fan of change. I hate it when my favorite TV show is cancelled (please ABC, don’t cancel “Nashville”!). Sometimes sticking with what I know is a good thing because it makes me feel secure (Bruce Springsteen will never retire, right?), but more often, it keeps me stuck and missing out on something much better than I ever thought possible.
So, let me reiterate, change is hard. According to a new study by the Lake Institute on Faith and Giving and reported on in the Chronicle of Philanthropy, “Eighty-eight percent of churches with congregation members who were 35 or younger increased donations in 2011, while only 60 percent of those with members who were mostly 55 or older did so. One reason for the increases, especially among young people, is that two-thirds of the congregations say they offer online-giving options” (emphasis added).
“Online-giving” gives people the option, through their home computer, to tithe via credit card, PayPal, or automatic bank deductions. Not offering online giving means:
• You are not reaching out to those who are “younger” in your congregation (35 or under)
• You are stuck in one “acceptable” mode of giving (passing the plate)
• You appear to “outsiders” that you are unwilling to change to meet the needs of a younger generation (so why come to your church in the first place?)
Clearly, this does not necessarily indicate that if you offer online giving younger people will flock to your church. But it will signal to them that you know that this is how they (as well as many old-fogies) like to give on a regular basis. And, surprise, they may even do so in a worshipful manner. It is a legitimate way of giving.
If online giving is even remotely possible (i.e., you have a website), find someone in your congregation this week who will research the topic. Set a deadline for when you will make a decision as to whether or not you will offer this as an option. And, if you decide to take the plunge, do it.
Online giving or change for change’s sake is not a magic solution to a church’s problems but it can signal a desire to do things differently and a willingness to reach out to all of God’s people…no matter their age.
Follow-up:
In light of the tragedy at the Boston Marathon, here is a link to the article I wrote soon after the Newtown shootings: “Generosity Even in the Face of Grief”
A couple of weeks ago I wrote a tribute to Gordon Cosby. This past Sunday, there was a lovely piece about him on NPR.
Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
Our hearts and prayers go out to those harmed on Monday at the Boston Marathon, and to the families who have lost loved ones in such senseless violence. It is important for us to focus our prayers on healing and strength for the survivors, and not on blind retribution and anger. Violence begets violence, and it is important for us to show restraint and patience in finding out the perpetrators of such mindless action. Let us not jump to uninformed conclusions before we know more of the 
evidence in this case. I am sure that justice will prevail, but let us show restraint before we know who is ultimately responsible. In the meantime, let us focus on prayers of healing for the survivors, and comfort for the bereaved.
Our United Methodist Church is responding to the tragedy with signs of faith and messages of hope. You can find some of those listed below.
Be the hope,
Facebook page where United Methodists have been sharing their prayers
United Methodist New Service article about the church’s response
Salem First United Methodist Church is seeking a part-time Childcare Coordinator. The Coordinator is responsible for providing Christ-centered care for infants and children of the members and friends of the Salem First UMC; scheduling, supervising and training childcare staff members; maintaining a safe and secure environment; and creating a healthy and nurturing environment as a part of the overall ministry of the church.
Minimum qualifications are: high school education, basic knowledge of Christian faith, First Aid/CPR certification, Red Cross child care training (or equivalent), and Child Abuse Awareness certification (or equivalent). Training in Early Childhood Education is highly desirable. Candidates must enjoy children and have enthusiasm in helping them discover God’s world. Experience in Christian education helpful.
This is a part-time position of 20 hours per week, which includes staff meetings and required office hours. Work shifts include, but are not limited to, Sunday mornings from 8:15 a.m. to 1 p.m. and one Friday evening each month from 6-9 p.m. Additional hours may be required. This position reports to the Director of Christian Education and Youth Ministries. Compensation is $12 per hour.
Further information and a more detailed description is available at www.salemfirstumcyouth.org/job-openings. Please send cover letter and résumé (including references) to: jobs@salemfirstumcyouth.org or mail to Salem First United Methodist Church, 600 State Street, Salem, Oregon, 97301. All applications must be received no later than Friday, May 31, 2013.
Job Description
Position: Director of Youth Ministries
Cathedral of the Rockies (FUMC Boise)
7 17 N. 11th Street, Boise ID 83702
Please send cover letter and resume’ to Jwalker@boisefumc.org closing date May 30th
Church Mission: We are a church that seeks to Love God, Love People, and Follow Jesus.
Mission of Youth Ministry: Our Youth Ministry exists to Lead others into the love of Christ, Open our hearts to all, be Visible examples of Christ’s love, create opportunities for youth to Encounter God, and to Develop loving relationships.
The Director of Youth Ministries position assumes a leader committed to team-building. We expect you to give your all, but we do not expect you to do it all.
This is a half time position. He or she will report directly to the Senior Pastor and other immediate supervisor as assigned. The basic responsibilities of the Director of Youth Ministries are listed below. Please note that these are not all-inclusive; other tasks may be assigned.
Spiritual Formation and Self-Care: Exhibit a Christ-centered life. Show evidence of a commitment for spiritual growth (i.e. personal prayer, Bible study, etc.). Seek out and be open to receiving spiritual direction from others. Honor and model a healthy life style (spiritually, emotionally, and physically).
Worship Leadership: Be an effective worship leader/facilitator. Organize and plan youth worship services with skill and care. Participate regularly in Sunday morning worship. Cultivate youth presence and participation in church overall.
Administration: Attendance at weekly worship meetings and monthly management. Work well within committees and other small group teams. Complete required paperwork in a timely manner. Implement policies and procedures (including Safe Sanctuary). Ensure deadlines are met on time. Work as a productive and supportive leader of Youth Staff Volunteers, Parent volunteers, and youth leadership team.
Discipleship: Be an engaging teacher and Bible study leader. Encourage youth to
grow in their faith by teaching United Methodist theology, practices, and polity.
Demonstrate competence in basic theology and biblical studies. Demonstrate a
comprehensive spiritual knowledge needed to perform the primary tasks of youth
ministry. Work to expand the number of participants, volunteers, and youth in
leadership.
Mission Issues: Live out the mission, vision, and values of the United Methodist Church and Cathedral of the Rockies. Communicate the mission of the church in word and deed. Engage in mission by leading the youth to help those in need, participating in local and/or foreign missions and mission trips, and challenging the youth to take seriously the needs of others.
Evangelism: Create an inviting, hospitable, open, and safe environment that offers youth and their families the opportunity to engage in Christian fellowship. Model outreach and challenge youth to reach out to those not active in a congregation. Clearly present the good news message of Jesus to others. Train and equip youth in the church to share their faith with others.
Pastoral Care: Provide support to youth and their families through prayer, counsel, and encouragement. Develop a working knowledge of the resources within the church and surrounding community that can offer youth further support. Create an environment in which our youth minister to each other.
Leadership: Lead the youth ministry into God’s vision for it by identifying, equipping and developing emerging lay leadership. Provide a strong sense of direction for the youth ministry. Demonstrate strong organizational skills; delegate appropriately; understand the youth director’s role and function within the church. Honor confidentiality. Dress appropriately for both the task and the context of a church. Maintain appropriate relationships with church staff, volunteers, and youth. Understand and manage conflict in a positive manner. Respect and honor all persons. Be punctual and prepared for assignments. Be present and engaged in the community.
Team Building and Equipping: Effectively build teams to multiply ministry; be an effective recruiter; coach and equip laity to be in ministry; share credit for successes with the team; actively seek out new people to be in ministry; invest in emerging leaders. Demonstrate consistent and effective leadership; cast vision for positive change; be open to new ideas; seek to be surrounded by highly competent people; build consensus for new ideas and be able to implement them; believe the best days of the church are in the future.
Basic Qualities and Qualifications Desired
Experience in youth ministry leadership
4-year college education required
Formal youth ministry certification or education highly desired
Commitment to participate in continuing education
Wanted: Church Pianist for Living Hope ~ Kuna United Methodist Church. Provides music for worship services; rehearses with and accompanies the choir. Requires intermediate to advanced skill in playing. Must pass background check. Email request for job description to kunaumc@gmail.com. Submit resume including playing experience and references to: Church Pianist Position; Living Hope ~ KUMC; PO Box 17; Kuna, ID 83634 or by email to kunaumc@gmail.com . All applications must be received no later than Friday, April 5, 2013.
Meridian United Methodist Church,” the Church of the Warm Heart”, is seeking a full-time Young Adult and Youth Minister to shepherd youth and young adults.
First United Methodist Church, Portland (FUMC), a progressive congregation in Portland OR, is recruiting candidates to fill this position. The responsibilities include facilitating the coordination, development, and administration of the ministry of Christian education for children, youth and families of FUMC. The Director staffs various volunteer advisory groups, representing Christian education. The Director recruits and develops volunteers as necessary to implement an education effort for age level ministries. The position also supervises paid early childhood staff. Salary range is $36-38,000 annually with benefits (DOQ). Requirements include: Bachelor's Degree in a related field and experience in Christian education. Experience with children and family education highly preferred. Strong planning and organizational skills, experience recruiting and managing a large volunteer corps, ability to be self-directed, team player, sense of humor and good communication skills (written and verbal) are also required.
Letters of application including resumé must be received electronically by 5pm on October 10, 2012. Please send to: jobs@fumcpdx.org with the subject heading "JOB APPLICATION." This information can also be found on our website at http://fumcpdx.org/?p=4552.
Children’s Ministry Coordinator
All Saints Episcopal Church, Portland
4300 SW Woodstock Blvd.
Portland, Oregon 97202
503-777-3829; asecoffice@yahoo.com
QUALIFICATIONS
Death Notice
H. Lee Baker July 21, 1924 – May 8, 2013
Retired Associate Member H. Lee Baker, died May 8, 2013. He is survived by his wife, Frances; daughters, Kathleen Grumbein and Kristine Baker; son, Keith Baker; six grandchildren; five great – grandchildren.
Pastor and Mrs. Baker served Victorville in the California-Pacific Conference; Middleton and Lake View First in the Oregon-Idaho Conference, before retiring in 1993.
A memorial service will be held Saturday, May 25, 2013 at 2:00 pm at Pocatello United Methodist Church, 200 N. 15th Avenue, Pocatello, ID 83201. (208) 232-1353.
In lieu of flowers the family suggests gifts be directed to the camping program at Pocatello United Methodist Church.
Friends may contact Frances Baker at 57 Richland Ave., Pocatello, ID 83201
Grant Hagiya, Bishop
William Mullette-Bauer, Director of Stewardship and Finance
CCEF
Death Notice
Robert Benefiel May 1, 1920 – March 29, 2013
Retired Pastor Robert Benefiel, died March 29, 2013. He is survived by his sons, Robert Lewis Benefiel Jr. and Carl Benefiel; daughters, Jennifer Randall ,Diane Walker, Rebecca Nicoli and Martha Harrison; eleven grandchildren; five great – grandchildren. Robert was preceded in death by his wife Elma.
Pastor and Mrs. Benefiel served Southwick, Lowell Fellowship and Belchertown in the New England Conference; Sacramento Pacific, Albany, Los Gatos and Roseville in the California-Nevada Conference; Portland Trinity, Idaho Falls Trinity, Klamath Falls Indian Mission, Klamath Falls, Beaverton, and Silverton in the Oregon-Idaho Conference, before retiring in 1985.
A memorial service will be held Sunday, April 28, 2013 at 1:00 pm at Willamette View, 12705 SE River Rd., Portland, OR 97222. (503) 654-6581.
Friends may contact Jennifer Randall at 20259 SW 70th Ave., Tualatin, OR 97062
Grant Hagiya, Bishop
William Mullette-Bauer, Director of Stewardship and Finance
CCEF
Death Notice
Caren Jackman September 16, 1944 – March 22, 2013
Caren Jackman wife of retired Pastor Perry Jackman died March 22, 2013. She is survived by her husband Perry and two sons, Jeffrey and James Jackman; and one grandson.
Pastor and Mrs. Jackman served, Wasco, Arlington Fossil, Fossil, Madras, Pioneer, Gresham, Tualatin and Rockwood in the Oregon-Idaho Conference, before retiring in 2004.
A memorial will be held Saturday, April 20th, 2013 at 2:00 pm at Rockwood United Methodist Church, 17805 SE Stark Street, Portland, OR. (503) 665-8764.
Friends may contact Perry Jackman, 10726 SW 49th Ave., Portland, OR 97219-0067.
Grant Hagiya, Bishop
William Mullette-Bauer, Director of Stewardship and Finance
CCEF
Death Notice
Philip Hanni April 28, 1932 – March 21, 2013
Retired Pastor Philip Hanni, died March 21, 2013. He is survived by his wife Erin and son, Carl Hanni. Philip was preceded in death by his sons, David and Douglas Hanni.
Pastor and Mrs. Hanni served Portland-Delaware Water Gap in the Eastern Pennsylvania Conference; Campus Ministry at Bowling Green and Gambier Circuit in the West Ohio conference; Wesley Foundation at Valdosta State College in the South Georgia Conference; UCF at Oregon College of Education; UCCF at Central Washington State College; Chaplain at Willamette University; Buena Vista United Methodist, Milton-Freewater-Weston, Caldwell and Lebanon in the Oregon-Idaho Conference, before retiring in 1997.
The family suggests memorial gifts be directed to First United Methodist Church of Salem designated to Jason Lee Food Bank, or the Methodist church of your choice.
A celebration of life will be held Sunday, April 14, 2013 at 2:00 pm at First United Methodist Salem, 600 State St., Salem, OR 97301-3848. (503) 364-6709.
Friends may contact Erin Hanni at 1314 Fir Street South, Salem, OR 97302.
Grant Hagiya, Bishop
William Mullette-Bauer, Director of Stewardship and Finance
CCEF
Death Notice
Mildred Finch August 16, 1910 – March 18, 2013
Mildred Finch, widow of retired Pastor Roy Finch, died March 18, 2013. She is survived by her five children, daughter, Joan Doering; sons, Lester Edgett and John Edgett; daughter, Ruth Reinhart; and son, Richard Edgett; seventeen grandchildren and several great-grandchildren.
A memorial service was held on Saturday March 23, 2013
Friends may contact Joan Doering, 1699 N. Terry St. #72, Eugene, OR 97402.
Grant Hagiya, Bishop
William Mullette-Bauer, Director of Stewardship and Finance
CCEF
Frances Bray, widow of Pastor William Bray, died January 23, 2013. She is survived by her sons, Jim Bray and Tom Bray; daughter, Maggie Bray; six grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren.
Pastor and Mrs. Bray served Turell Gilmore in the North Arkansas Conference; Tigard in the Oregon-Idaho Conference; as a Chaplain in the United States Army; St. Helens First in the Oregon-Idaho Conference, and as a professor at the Kwansie Gakuin University in Japan, before retiring in 1981.
A memorial will be held Sunday, February 10, 2013 at 3:30 pm at the Pilgrim Place Campus, 625 Mayflower Rd., Claremont, CA 91711.
Friends may contact Jim Bray at 1014 Ruby Ct., Santa Rosa, CA 95407.
Grant Hagiya, Bishop
William Mullette-Bauer, Director of Stewardship and Finance
CCEF
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