In this edition of GPconnect:
ANNOUNCEMENTS
2016 Orders and Fellowship date and location changed
Retiring ministers plan reception, dinner during AC
Laity and clergy invited to “Meet and Greet” before AC
Register now for annual conference golf tournament
Support Native American Ministries Sunday
Commission names interim general secretary for UMCom
Krause elected General Secretary of UMCom
EQUIP DISCIPLES
Support campus ministries at Emporia State, Washburn universities
High school juniors invited to experience KWU on April 24
Visit Baker University this Friday
Learn how your congregation can help energize education
Registration ends soon for Hispanic/Latino ministry leaders workshop
Register now for the Aug. 29 ABIDE preview
Register now for Spring Training for youth ministry workers
Magnets provide instructions in times following disasters
Easter Bunny visits the University of Kansas
American Christian women get frank about faith
Carrying the cross
Great Plains churches in the news
CLERGY EXCELLENCE
Young Preachers Festival and Conference to be held at COR
Clergy health: Conflict and the Brain
New pastoral transitions page offers resources
MERCY AND JUSTICE
Disaster response training events across the Great Plains
ESL allows Pleasant Valley UMC to reach Hispanic community
Young Clergy Leadership Forum leaves lasting impact on clergy
Lives touched through UMGAF grant
United Methodists take action to end family detention
Gun violence prevention resources now available on website
OTHER NEWS
Kansas Wesleyan thanks conference
Newsletters
Classified
KAUMF announces April rates for Certificates of Participation
2016 Orders and Fellowship date and location changed
Due to scheduling conflicts, the dates and location of the 2016 Orders and Fellowship meeting have been changed to Feb. 17-18, 2016, at St. Mark’s UMC in Lincoln.
View the letter from the Rev. Nancy Lambert, director of Clergy Excellence and assistant to the bishop, announcing the change.
http://gp-email.brtapp.com/files/gpconnect/2015/04.08/orders+and+fellowship+date+and+location+changed.pdf
The focus of the time is on "Culture of Call" and how we develop this culture in our conference.
Bishop Janice Huie of the Texas Annual Conference will be the keynote speaker. Bishop Huie has written an article titled "A New Paradigm for Clergy Leadership: Cultivating an Ecosystem of Excellence" which will inform her time with us.
Retiring ministers plan reception, dinner during annual conference session
The Great Plains Conference Retired Ministers will organize at the dinner honoring retiree and their guests during the annual conference session Thursday, June 11, at the Redbud Room at the Hyatt Regency. A steering committee has been meeting to develop these plans.
A reception also is planned for 2 p.m. Tuesday, June 9, College Hill United Methodist Church, 2930 E. 1st St. North, in Wichita.
This event is sponsored by the Kansas West Retired Pastors and Spouses Association. More information will be coming, but organizers are asking retired clergy to note these events on their calendars.
Laity and clergy invited to “Meet and Greet” before 2015 Annual Conference Session
Attendees of the 2015 Great Plains Annual Conference Session are invited to the laity and clergy “Meet and Greet” happening Tuesday, June 9 from 7–9 p.m., the evening before conference begins. This casual gathering is set up for laity and clergy to have a chance to get acquainted with others in attendance and get to know people from other areas of the Great Plains Conference. All are welcome and refreshments will be provided.
Laity and clergy will meet separately. Laity are invited to gather at Wichita First UMC (330 N Broadway St.) and clergy will meet at Wichita East Heights UMC (4407 E. Douglas Ave.)
Register now for annual conference golf tournament
Registration is open for the 2015 Great Plains Annual Conference Benefit Golf Tournament. This event is scheduled for Tuesday, June 9, the day prior to the start of the conference session, with sign-in taking place at 7 a.m. that day prior to the 7:30 a.m. tournament start.
The registration fee for this “best ball scramble” format is $75 for golfers and $30 for people who don’t intend to play but who want to help with the fundraising effort while having fun. The fee includes the golf, cart, lunch, the opportunity for prizes, fun and laughter.
Money raised will go to the Great Plains Clergy Emergency Fund.
The event – sponsored by the Center for Pastoral Effectiveness and St. Mark’s United Methodist Church in Lincoln, Nebraska – will take place at the Arthur B. Sims Golf Course, 2020 Murdock St., in Wichita, Kansas.
Register by May 20. Download the registration form.
Support Native American Ministries Sunday
Great Plains churches and congregations are encouraged to support Native American Ministries Sunday. Although April 19 is the official Sunday, churches can support this Special Sunday offering and Native American ministry at any time.
“It’s a great opportunity to connect culturally and gain a broader understanding of the ministry the United Methodist Church is doing in Native American communities,” said Courtney Fowler, conference lay leader and member of the Muscogee-Creek Nation. “The funds raised through this special offering help support Native American students wishing to attend seminary in order to lead their churches and serve God in their community. It is so reflective of the diversity across our denomination.”
View more information about Native American Ministries Sunday.
Commission names interim general secretary for United Methodist Communications
The General Commission on Communication announced today the appointment of an interim chief executive officer for United Methodist Communications, effectively immediately.
The Rev. Larry Hollon, who has served as general secretary of United Methodist Communications for the past 15 years, announced this past August that he would retire this spring, having reached the mandatory retirement age for elective and appointive staff of United Methodist general agencies. Hollon’s last day at United Methodist Communications was Wednesday, April 1.
The Commission launched a search for Hollon’s successor this past September and expects to make an appointment very soon. Sherri Thiel, chief operating officer of United Methodist Communications, will serve as general secretary in the interim period.
“The leadership and the vision that Larry Hollon provided has enabled the denomination to grow in its capacity to communicate and empowered United Methodist Communications to fulfill its calling,” said Bishop Sally Dyck, president of the Commission. “I believe the agency is at its very best, and is poised to continue to move fast-forward into the future.”
The Rev. Greg Cox, chair of the personnel committee, said the selection of Thiel as the interim general secretary will allow the agency to continue to move forward uninterrupted until a new general secretary is named.
“Sherri has 37 years of experience at United Methodist Communications. She has a thorough knowledge of every aspect of the agency and a clear understanding of the vision cast by Larry Hollon and we have great confidence that her leadership will assure a smooth transition,” said Cox.
Krause elected General Secretary of United Methodist Communications
Nashville, Tenn.: The General Commission on Communication announced today that Daniel Krause of Denver, Colorado, has been named top executive of United Methodist Communications, effective June 8, following a vote of the Commission today.
Krause is currently a candidate for ordination as an elder in the Rocky Mountain Conference of the United Methodist Church. He has attended Iliff School of Theology since 2013, and has completed over two-thirds of the required credits for a Masters of Divinity degree. Krause has spent the past two years at Trinity United Methodist Church in Denver as a pastoral intern supporting evangelism and new member outreach.
Bishop Sally Dyck, president of the Commission, said Krause was chosen from a field of more than 500 candidates because of his strong management experience and wealth of knowledge related to communications strategy, branding, messaging and marketing, combined with his theological education and ties to The United Methodist Church.
“Dan has had an impressive career to-date and the members of the Commission felt that the leadership skills and communications expertise he brings will be a great benefit to continuing to move United Methodist Communications forward,” said Bishop Dyck. “We are excited to welcome him on board.”
Krause comes with more than 11 years of experience in management at Frontier Airlines. Krause was most recently Vice-President of Marketing and Customer Experience, responsible for managing all corporate branding, marketing, advertising, social media and corporate communications strategy. He also directed all consumer messaging and managed the day-to-day operation of Frontier’s Reservations Call Centers and the Customer Relations and Customer Experience teams.
"It is an honor to join United Methodist Communications and to help share the story of God's work through The United Methodist Church in the world,” said Krause. “I look forward to working with the distinguished team in place as we face opportunities to keep communication timely and relevant for a global church."
Krause is a graduate of Boston University and earned both a Masters of Business Administration and a Masters of Arts in Education Policy from Stanford University.
Support campus ministries at Emporia State, Washburn universities
Friday, April 10, is the sixth-annual Hornet-Ichabod Campus Ministry Challenge. The event begins at 6:30 p.m. at Emporia First United Methodist Church, 823 Merchant St., with a catered meal. This is a great opportunity to support and learn more about United Methodist campus ministry at Emporia State University and Washburn University.
RSVP for the challenge by calling 620-342-5854 or by sending an e-mail to umcmesu@gmail.com.
High school juniors invited to experience KWU on ‘Junior Visit Day’ – Friday, April 24
High school juniors who will graduate next year and are considering Kansas Wesleyan University for fall 2016 are invited to experience a bit of college life during KWU’s ‘Junior Visit Day,’ 8:30 a.m.–2 p.m. Friday, April 24, 2015. Parents are welcome to join their high school students for this special day.
Sessions will include admissions and financial aid, student development (campus life and spiritual growth), a student-led campus tour and choice of an academic session in your area of interest. Talk to current students about their KWU experiences, visit with professors about academic opportunities, enjoy a free lunch with the KWU students in Shriwise Dining Hall and receive a free T-Shirt.
This is a great opportunity to find out if KWU is a good fit. Learn about the exciting new Kansas Wesleyan academic programs and the new curriculum being rolled out and discover the many activities students can be involved in and still graduate in four years. Hear about KWU’s robust financial aid and scholarship package that puts the final college costs at KWU closely in line with many state universities.
Get the full schedule for KWU Junior Visit Day — and register online — at www.kwu.edu/juniorvisit, or call the KWU Admissions Office at -785-827-5541, ext. 1285.
Visit Baker University this Friday
April 10 is Baker University’s junior visit day. Experience the difference at Baker, the first university in Kansas. Learn about Baker’s academic excellence by attending a class and visit with a professor within your area of academic interest or explore your options. Baker University cherishes their United Methodist Heritage and looks forward to hosting United Methodist students from across Kansas and Nebraska.
Register at www.bakeru.edu/visitbaker. Once you register you’ll receive a confirmation with the itinerary and directions to campus. Download the flier for more details.
If you have any questions about this upcoming event or know a student that may be interested in attending Baker please contact the Rev. Kevin Hopkins, minister to the university, at 785-594-4562 orkevin.hopkins@bakeru.edu.
Learn how your congregation can help energize education
In this era of political battles over budget cuts for public education, now is the perfect opportunity for local congregations to reach out to their communities by providing support for our children to energize the movement toward academic success.
That’s the basis for the Energizing Education Partnerships program with the Great Plains Conference of the United Methodist Church. Free workshops have been planned to help move schools and congregations into partnerships that support public education for all people. These workshops are open to all, so bring a delegation from your congregation and partner schools to learn how to expand, refine or even plan new partnerships.
A grant from the Kansas Leadership Center makes these workshops possible. Though the sessions are being conducted in Kansas, Nebraska schools and partner churches are invited to attend to help address this regional and national issue.
Training sessions are planned for:
April 18 – 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Church of the Cross United Methodist, 1600 Rush St., in Salina, Kansas. Lunch will be provided.
April 19 – 2 to 7 p.m. at First United Methodist Church, 946 Vermont St., in Lawrence, Kansas. Dinner will be provided.
Enrollment is limited, so register now
Registration ends soon for Hispanic/Latino ministry leaders workshop
Leading Size Transitions in Hispanic Ministry will be held May 1-2 at First UMC in Wichita, Kansas. This workshop will equip leaders for Hispanic/Latino ministry with the knowledge, skills and confidence to break through growth barriers and lead congregations as they transition organizationally.
Bi-lingual (Spanish and English) training will be offered by the Great Plains Hispanic Ministry and facilitated by the Rev. Dr. Rubén Saenz Jr., from the Rio Texas Conference.
Registration is $20 and includes training materials, snacks and two meals. See two-page flier (also in Spanish) for event details. Register online. Deadline to register is April 17, 2015. Childcare is free.
Register now for the Aug. 29 ABIDE preview
Are you a small congregation looking to revitalize your ministry? Are you looking to strengthen leadership development among folks in the church? If yes, your congregation could be just right for ABIDE.
Abide is a process of learning and revitalization for small attendance congregations (about 50 and fewer in worship). Laity and pastor together form a covenant team of leaders who seek and follow God’s vision for their congregation and community.
A preview of this energizing and spirit-filled process for small church development will take place Aug. 29, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., in both Lincoln, Nebraska, and Wichita, Kansas. The event is free although donations to cover lunch are appreciated.
Register online now. If you need more information, contact Micki McCorkle at mmccorkle@greatplainsumc.org or 316-210-3996.
Register now for Spring Training for youth ministry workers
Thought you missed Spring Training? Nope! Our youth ministry training events are Friday, April 17 – Saturday, April 18, at Trinity UMC in Salina, Kansas, and Saturday, April 18 – Sunday, April 19, at First UMC in Kearney, Nebraska. Just choose the one that works for your schedule or location. Both events start at 6:30 p.m. on the first day and end at 3 p.m. on the second day.
Your church's entire youth ministry team is invited. Bring all adults who work with youth - youth leaders, Sunday School teachers, pastors, Confirmation mentors, etc.
We're offering everyone box seats right behind the dugout for nosebleed prices. You'll be treated like an MVP, you'll learn from a great coach, and you'll add lots of tricks to your playbook. Registration is open through Monday at https://gp-reg.brtapp.com/SpringTraining2015 but you should sign up ASAP before the bench is filled. Batter up!
Cost is $79 for a team of up to four people. Each additional team member is $20. Cost includes snacks on Friday evening and lunch on Saturday afternoon. Each team will receive a bundle of "major league" resources for use in your ministry.
Free childcare will be available for children up to 12 years old. Children must be pre-registered.
Download a flier: www.greatplainsyouth.org/files/2015/02/Spring-Training.pdf
Read more: www.greatplainsyouth.org/upcoming-events/spring-training/
Magnets provide instructions in times following disasters
Kansas and Nebraska both face their share of disasters each year. It’s not a matter of if the residents of the two Great Plains Conference states will face challenges because of disasters. It’s a matter of when.
Sometimes, it’s helpful to have a reminder of whom to call or how to proceed if a disaster strikes your church, your community, anywhere in our conference or even beyond our borders. The Great Plains Conference wants to help by providing a magnet with instructions and phone numbers of whom to call when disasters strike.
These magnets, perfect for the refrigerator or other magnetic surfaces, will be available for free at various events around the conference and at the annual conference session June 10-13 in Wichita, courtesy of Disaster Response Ministries.
Easter Bunny visits the University of Kansas
Students on campus at the University of Kansas (KU), in Lawrence, Kansas, were treated to a visitor last week — the Easter Bunny was sighted near Wescoe Beach (Hall). New Church Start pastor, the Rev. Jacob Cloud, was there, along with student leader, Mike Marcus, passing out candy stuffed eggs along with an invitation to attend church and participate in their first Easter service at New Church Lawrence.
Pastor Cloud was also at downtown Lawrence last week with his crew, passing out eggs and inviting folks to church on Sunday. The result was their second largest church service attendance, and that is with most of their students out of town for the Easter holiday.
Jacob, with the help of events planner, Monique Brigham, has many activities planned for the rest of April. If you have students attending KU, send Jacob an email so he can personally invite them to future events. You can contact Jacob at Jacob@newchurchlawrence.org, or call the Five Rivers District office, at 785-841-4804. The district office will make sure they are added to the communication going out weekly.
American Christian women get frank about faith
Talking Taboo, part of the I Speak for Myself series, will be held Tuesday, April 21, from 6:30-8 p.m. at Wesley Covenant Chapel – Church of the Resurrection, 13720 Roe Ave. (east building), Leawood, Kansas.
Featured speakers included Kristen Eichelberger, Dr. Christy Sim, the Rev. Lydia Istomina and the Rev. Lara Blackwood Pickrel.
Talking Taboo is sponsored by Women in Ministry at Saint Paul School of Theology and is supported by a grant from Mercy and Justice Ministries of the Great Plains Conference
View the flier for more information. No registration is necessary.
Carrying the cross
Thirty-five members of the Harlan Lake UMC Parish (Alma and Republican City, Nebraska) and friends experienced “Carrying the Cross” for the first time on Good Friday. Members met in Alma and took turns carrying the cross approximately three miles on the walking trail to Methodist Cove campground at the Harlan County Reservoir. Nine golf carts followed along for those who wanted to ride part or all of the way. Prior to the walk, bottles of water were placed by the trail with a sign that read, “Free to those who thirst for Him.”
When they arrived at the campsite, where Easter sunrise service was to be held, Pastor James Bendorf was carrying the cross. He knelt with the cross before it was stood up. Pastor Bendorf then read the story of the crucifixion from Matthew 27 and closed with prayer. Alma UMC member Jill Bauer’s comment after the walk was, “What an experience.”
Great Plains churches in the news
Penalosa and Cunningham UMCs, in Turon and Cunningham, Kansas, respectively, celebrated Easter morning service the same way they have for more than 50 years - together in a Kingman County pasture.
Read the full article, “A tradition still rises” at HutchNews.com.A tradition still rises
Amy Bickel/The Hutchinson News
Easter Sunrise Service
Bethany Nazarene Church’s sunrise services take place on Teter’s Peak near Hutchinson on Easter morning each year. This photo was taken from the 7 a.m. service in 2014 as the congregation gathered at the crosses.
By Kathy Hanks The Hutchinson Newskhanks@hutchnews.com
by Kathy Hanks
Long before sunrise, Cindy Baker prepared 100 biscuits and sausage for those attending the early morning outdoor service at her family’s pasture in Kingman County.
For more than 50 years, worshipers at both Penalosa and Cunningham United Methodist churches have gathered to watch the sunrise on Easter morning by Oak Pond.
A string of car lights traverses the dirt path. Those attending know the way through the field into the middle of the pasture.
“Easter is such a special time and has special meaning,” Baker said. “We’ve been doing this for years and years.”
That’s the way it has been at Teter’s Peak on Mayfield Road. Further west, this morning, a crowd will gather at Pawnee Rock State Historic Site for a sunrise pageant that has been a local tradition since 1936.
For some congregations, sunrise services are an occasional event they have some years. But consistently these three churches continue the outdoor service just as they sing the traditional Easter hymns, “He Lives” and “Jesus Christ Has Risen Today.”
“It’s something to be outside on resurrection Sunday looking east,” said Jay Bessmer, pastor of Bethany Nazarene Church on Fourth and Kent Road. It’s his congregation that will be meeting at Teter’s Peak, which is the highest point in the pasture that once belonged to Allen and Anna Teter. They placed a cross at the top and two other crosses have been added over the years.
Descendants still live in the area and continue to worship at Bethany. The special spot in the pasture continues to touch generation after generation. Family members keep the area mowed. But those attending don’t drive up the hill; instead, they are shuttled on trailers pulled by tractors driven by the great-grandsons of Allen and Anna Teter.
No matter if the wind is howling and cold, people show up.
Jerry Robinson said something special happens during the service.
“You feel it,” said Robinson. “You are closer to the Lord.”
Marian Snyder believes Teter’s Peak is a tribute to her father.
“It wouldn’t be there if wasn’t for him and his foresight and conviction,” Snyder said. “Our whole family feels our parents led the way, and we walk in their footsteps.”
At Pawnee Rock, the Easter Sunrise Pageant began in 1936. Vivian Bright was just 4 years old at the time. Now, 79 years later, the pageant continues. Through the years Bright has gone from watching in awe, playing a role, to helping with the event north of town.
At one time, it was held every Easter, but then they went to every odd-numbered year. This year, there are 18 characters in full costume. Bright hoped the cast would be there by 6:30 a.m. She would arrive earlier to create a garden out of artificial plants.
Bright’s son, Todd, arrived in town from Texas to attend the pageant. Growing up, he played a soldier back in the 1970s.
“Sometimes it could be a little chilly dressed in the Roman soldier gear,” Todd Bright said.
Following the hour-long service, everyone heads off to their own church. The event is sponsored by Pawnee Rock Ministerial Alliance.
“It’s a big weekend, but it’s fun,” said Vivian Bright.
Back in Kingman County, Cindy Baker said it was her father Melvin Oak’s idea to erect a cross on the highest point in his pasture. Together with his wife, Lorene Oak, they began hosting the sunrise service.
“They wanted to share this lovely location with others,” said Baker. As a child, she remembers her mother baking biscuits from scratch for everyone who attended. She continues the tradition – though she confesses her biscuits are a mix.
Through the decades, there have only been a few times they had to meet at the church because of bad weather. About 15 minutes before sunrise, they light a fire in a pit. People bring their lawn chairs and sit to watch what they hope will be a dramatic show in the east.
About 7 a.m., the sun begins to ascend.
“If the sun is just right, the three crosses are reflected in the pond,” Baker said.
Along with the singing, the pastor gives a devotional. Following the service, everyone enjoys the tailgate breakfast of biscuits and sausage, donuts, hot chocolate, coffee and orange juice.
“A lot of different people make it happen,” said Baker. Though there are cattle in the pasture, they generally stay away from the crowd.Congregations across the Great Plains Conference are making the news in their local newspapers. View our newspaper clipping reports to see if there are stories, ideas and ministry happenings you can learn from to use in your own congregation. Press clips can be found at greatplainsumc.org/inthenews.
Young Preachers Festival and Conference to be held at Church of the Resurrection
The United Methodist Church of the Resurrection is pleased to announce the inaugural National Young Preachers Festival and Conference being held at the Leawood, Kansas, campus July 16-17, 2015.
The Young Preachers Festival and Conference is part of a movement to raise up the next generation of young preachers for The United Methodist Church.
This event is designed specifically to help young adults discern their calling, learn from and network with preaching leaders from across our denomination and develop more fully as a preacher.
Who Should Attend?
High school juniors and seniors
College and seminary students
Youth pastors
Declared candidates for ministry
Young clergy
Any young adults who are seeking to discover more about this amazing call to ordained ministry
Each leader will experience:
Keynote preaching sessions led by the Rev. Jasmine Smothers, the Rev. Adam Weber, the Rev. Junius Dotson and the Rev. Adam Hamilton
Inspiring and practical workshops led by seminary faculty and denominational leaders
A powerful evening concert featuring Glory Revival
Intentional time of networking and connection
Optional opportunity to preach their own sermon and receive instant feedback
Time in a small group with Pastor Adam Hamilton to debrief his Saturday, July 17, 5 p.m., sermon
Registration is limited, so register early atwww.youngpreachersfestival.org.
Clergy health: Conflict and the Brain
Are difficult conversations and potential conflict situations a regular part of your ministry? Do you find yourself attempting to balance strongly held views in your work? If so, "Conflict and the Brain" is for you.
Drew Theological School, Center for Clergy and Congregational Health and Wholeness, in Madison, New Jersey, will host Dr. Wesley Wildman who will present his research on the difference between liberal and conservative thinking based on his research in neuroscience. By understanding the relationship of the workings of a given person’s brain to their strongly held views, he assists us to better understand each other and to become more open to listening and compassionate in our responses.
Time and distance need not prevent you from learning from Dr. Wildman. Watch the live streamed lecture on Thursday, April 9, at 8 a.m. CST. The archived lecture will be available at the same web address following the event.
New pastoral transitions page offers resources
Pastors and congregations who are and will be experiencing a pastoral transition now have a one-stop-shop when it comes to resources to help with saying both goodbye and hello.
Congregants and pastors can go to greatplainsumc.org/pastoraltransitions to find numerous resources. Helpful scriptures, timelined guides, social media practices and suggestions for churches are just a few of the free resources offered in addition to some available for purchase.
Videos will be available soon that include best practices for clergy in transition, a panel discussion by several clergy, and a presentation by Bob Potter, church administrator at Emporia (Kansas) First UMC.
Disaster response training events across the Great Plains
Early Response Training (ERT)
Lunch will be provided during the sessions and there will be a free will offering to help with cost.
Saturday, April 11 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., at Haysville UMC, 601 E Grand Ave, Haysville, KS 67060. For more information, contact, Keith Fink, Great Plains Disaster Response co-chair, at kfink@greatplainsumc.org. Cost is $25, register here.
Saturday, April 18 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., at Sterling UMC, 137 N. Broadway Ave. Sterling, KS 67579. Lunch will be provided and there will be a free will offering to help with cost. For more information, contact, Joshua Johnson, Hutchinson District coordinator, at joshua.johnson@greatplainsumc.org. Cost is $25, register here.
Saturday, May 2 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., at First United Methodist Church, 421 N Spruce St., Ogallala, Nebraska. For more information, contact Dave Baltzell atdocdave69153@gmail.com. Cost is $25, register here.
Saturday, June 6 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., at Humboldt UMC, 806 N 9th St, Humboldt, KS 66748. For more information, contact, Russell Anderson, Southeast Region coordinator atrev.russanderson@gmail.com. Cost is $25, register here.
Connecting Neighbors training
A Connecting Neighbors Training event is schedule to take placeSunday, April 26 from 1-5 p.m., at Belleville UMC, 2013 M St. Belleville, KS 66935. For more information, contact Steve Burnett, Great Plains Disaster Response chair, at srburn@madtel.net. There is no cost to attend, register here.
Basic disaster training
Monday, April 13 from 6-9 p.m., at St. Mark’s UMC, 8550 Pioneer Blvd. Lincoln, NE 68520. There is no cost to attend. Please contact the Rev. Hollie Tapley athtapley@greatplainsumc.org if you will be attending or for more information.
Saturday, May 2 from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m., at Caldwell UMC, 100 West Central Ave, Caldwell, KS 67022. There is no cost to attend. Please contact Jeanine Bevan at 620-845-2513 orbtractor2003@yahoo.com if you will be attending or for more information.
Saturday, May 2 from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m., at Trinity UMC, 224 S Main St, Lindsborg, KS, 67456. There is no cost to attend. Contact Great Plains Disaster Response Coordinator Rev. Hollie Tapley at 316-978-9761 or htapley@greatplainsumc.orgif you will be attending or for more information.
ESL allows Pleasant Valley UMC to reach Hispanic community
For their fourth year of offering ESL (English as a Second Language) at Pleasant Valley United Methodist Church in Wichita, Kansas, Jennifer and Tim Jepsen expected the weekly average of 92 students. However they saw 134 Hispanic people walk through the door on the first day of the semester.
Pleasant Valley UMC is dedicated to serving the Hispanic community by providing quality language instruction to Spanish speaking people. The ESL program is one of their primary outreach ministries, meeting every Thursday for eight weeks in the fall and nine weeks in the spring.
Read more at greatplainsumc.org/newsdetail/1006499ESL allows Pleasant Valley UMC to reach Hispanic community
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The focus of the time is on "Culture of Call" and how we develop this culture in our conference.
Bishop Janice Huie of the Texas Annual Conference will be the keynote speaker. Bishop Huie has written an article titled "A New Paradigm for Clergy Leadership: Cultivating an Ecosystem of Excellence" which will inform her time with us.
Retiring ministers plan reception, dinner during annual conference session
The Great Plains Conference Retired Ministers will organize at the dinner honoring retiree and their guests during the annual conference session Thursday, June 11, at the Redbud Room at the Hyatt Regency. A steering committee has been meeting to develop these plans.
A reception also is planned for 2 p.m. Tuesday, June 9, College Hill United Methodist Church, 2930 E. 1st St. North, in Wichita.
This event is sponsored by the Kansas West Retired Pastors and Spouses Association. More information will be coming, but organizers are asking retired clergy to note these events on their calendars.
Laity and clergy invited to “Meet and Greet” before 2015 Annual Conference Session
Attendees of the 2015 Great Plains Annual Conference Session are invited to the laity and clergy “Meet and Greet” happening Tuesday, June 9 from 7–9 p.m., the evening before conference begins. This casual gathering is set up for laity and clergy to have a chance to get acquainted with others in attendance and get to know people from other areas of the Great Plains Conference. All are welcome and refreshments will be provided.
Laity and clergy will meet separately. Laity are invited to gather at Wichita First UMC (330 N Broadway St.) and clergy will meet at Wichita East Heights UMC (4407 E. Douglas Ave.)
Register now for annual conference golf tournament
Registration is open for the 2015 Great Plains Annual Conference Benefit Golf Tournament. This event is scheduled for Tuesday, June 9, the day prior to the start of the conference session, with sign-in taking place at 7 a.m. that day prior to the 7:30 a.m. tournament start.
The registration fee for this “best ball scramble” format is $75 for golfers and $30 for people who don’t intend to play but who want to help with the fundraising effort while having fun. The fee includes the golf, cart, lunch, the opportunity for prizes, fun and laughter.
Money raised will go to the Great Plains Clergy Emergency Fund.
The event – sponsored by the Center for Pastoral Effectiveness and St. Mark’s United Methodist Church in Lincoln, Nebraska – will take place at the Arthur B. Sims Golf Course, 2020 Murdock St., in Wichita, Kansas.
Register by May 20. Download the registration form.
Support Native American Ministries Sunday
Great Plains churches and congregations are encouraged to support Native American Ministries Sunday. Although April 19 is the official Sunday, churches can support this Special Sunday offering and Native American ministry at any time.
“It’s a great opportunity to connect culturally and gain a broader understanding of the ministry the United Methodist Church is doing in Native American communities,” said Courtney Fowler, conference lay leader and member of the Muscogee-Creek Nation. “The funds raised through this special offering help support Native American students wishing to attend seminary in order to lead their churches and serve God in their community. It is so reflective of the diversity across our denomination.”
View more information about Native American Ministries Sunday.
Commission names interim general secretary for United Methodist Communications
The General Commission on Communication announced today the appointment of an interim chief executive officer for United Methodist Communications, effectively immediately.
The Rev. Larry Hollon, who has served as general secretary of United Methodist Communications for the past 15 years, announced this past August that he would retire this spring, having reached the mandatory retirement age for elective and appointive staff of United Methodist general agencies. Hollon’s last day at United Methodist Communications was Wednesday, April 1.
The Commission launched a search for Hollon’s successor this past September and expects to make an appointment very soon. Sherri Thiel, chief operating officer of United Methodist Communications, will serve as general secretary in the interim period.
“The leadership and the vision that Larry Hollon provided has enabled the denomination to grow in its capacity to communicate and empowered United Methodist Communications to fulfill its calling,” said Bishop Sally Dyck, president of the Commission. “I believe the agency is at its very best, and is poised to continue to move fast-forward into the future.”
The Rev. Greg Cox, chair of the personnel committee, said the selection of Thiel as the interim general secretary will allow the agency to continue to move forward uninterrupted until a new general secretary is named.
“Sherri has 37 years of experience at United Methodist Communications. She has a thorough knowledge of every aspect of the agency and a clear understanding of the vision cast by Larry Hollon and we have great confidence that her leadership will assure a smooth transition,” said Cox.
Krause elected General Secretary of United Methodist Communications
Nashville, Tenn.: The General Commission on Communication announced today that Daniel Krause of Denver, Colorado, has been named top executive of United Methodist Communications, effective June 8, following a vote of the Commission today.
Krause is currently a candidate for ordination as an elder in the Rocky Mountain Conference of the United Methodist Church. He has attended Iliff School of Theology since 2013, and has completed over two-thirds of the required credits for a Masters of Divinity degree. Krause has spent the past two years at Trinity United Methodist Church in Denver as a pastoral intern supporting evangelism and new member outreach.
Bishop Sally Dyck, president of the Commission, said Krause was chosen from a field of more than 500 candidates because of his strong management experience and wealth of knowledge related to communications strategy, branding, messaging and marketing, combined with his theological education and ties to The United Methodist Church.
“Dan has had an impressive career to-date and the members of the Commission felt that the leadership skills and communications expertise he brings will be a great benefit to continuing to move United Methodist Communications forward,” said Bishop Dyck. “We are excited to welcome him on board.”
Krause comes with more than 11 years of experience in management at Frontier Airlines. Krause was most recently Vice-President of Marketing and Customer Experience, responsible for managing all corporate branding, marketing, advertising, social media and corporate communications strategy. He also directed all consumer messaging and managed the day-to-day operation of Frontier’s Reservations Call Centers and the Customer Relations and Customer Experience teams.
"It is an honor to join United Methodist Communications and to help share the story of God's work through The United Methodist Church in the world,” said Krause. “I look forward to working with the distinguished team in place as we face opportunities to keep communication timely and relevant for a global church."
Krause is a graduate of Boston University and earned both a Masters of Business Administration and a Masters of Arts in Education Policy from Stanford University.
Support campus ministries at Emporia State, Washburn universities
Friday, April 10, is the sixth-annual Hornet-Ichabod Campus Ministry Challenge. The event begins at 6:30 p.m. at Emporia First United Methodist Church, 823 Merchant St., with a catered meal. This is a great opportunity to support and learn more about United Methodist campus ministry at Emporia State University and Washburn University.
RSVP for the challenge by calling 620-342-5854 or by sending an e-mail to umcmesu@gmail.com.
High school juniors invited to experience KWU on ‘Junior Visit Day’ – Friday, April 24
High school juniors who will graduate next year and are considering Kansas Wesleyan University for fall 2016 are invited to experience a bit of college life during KWU’s ‘Junior Visit Day,’ 8:30 a.m.–2 p.m. Friday, April 24, 2015. Parents are welcome to join their high school students for this special day.
Sessions will include admissions and financial aid, student development (campus life and spiritual growth), a student-led campus tour and choice of an academic session in your area of interest. Talk to current students about their KWU experiences, visit with professors about academic opportunities, enjoy a free lunch with the KWU students in Shriwise Dining Hall and receive a free T-Shirt.
This is a great opportunity to find out if KWU is a good fit. Learn about the exciting new Kansas Wesleyan academic programs and the new curriculum being rolled out and discover the many activities students can be involved in and still graduate in four years. Hear about KWU’s robust financial aid and scholarship package that puts the final college costs at KWU closely in line with many state universities.
Get the full schedule for KWU Junior Visit Day — and register online — at www.kwu.edu/juniorvisit, or call the KWU Admissions Office at -785-827-5541, ext. 1285.
Visit Baker University this Friday
April 10 is Baker University’s junior visit day. Experience the difference at Baker, the first university in Kansas. Learn about Baker’s academic excellence by attending a class and visit with a professor within your area of academic interest or explore your options. Baker University cherishes their United Methodist Heritage and looks forward to hosting United Methodist students from across Kansas and Nebraska.
Register at www.bakeru.edu/visitbaker. Once you register you’ll receive a confirmation with the itinerary and directions to campus. Download the flier for more details.
If you have any questions about this upcoming event or know a student that may be interested in attending Baker please contact the Rev. Kevin Hopkins, minister to the university, at 785-594-4562 orkevin.hopkins@bakeru.edu.
Learn how your congregation can help energize education
In this era of political battles over budget cuts for public education, now is the perfect opportunity for local congregations to reach out to their communities by providing support for our children to energize the movement toward academic success.
That’s the basis for the Energizing Education Partnerships program with the Great Plains Conference of the United Methodist Church. Free workshops have been planned to help move schools and congregations into partnerships that support public education for all people. These workshops are open to all, so bring a delegation from your congregation and partner schools to learn how to expand, refine or even plan new partnerships.
A grant from the Kansas Leadership Center makes these workshops possible. Though the sessions are being conducted in Kansas, Nebraska schools and partner churches are invited to attend to help address this regional and national issue.
Training sessions are planned for:
April 18 – 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Church of the Cross United Methodist, 1600 Rush St., in Salina, Kansas. Lunch will be provided.
April 19 – 2 to 7 p.m. at First United Methodist Church, 946 Vermont St., in Lawrence, Kansas. Dinner will be provided.
Enrollment is limited, so register now
Registration ends soon for Hispanic/Latino ministry leaders workshop
Leading Size Transitions in Hispanic Ministry will be held May 1-2 at First UMC in Wichita, Kansas. This workshop will equip leaders for Hispanic/Latino ministry with the knowledge, skills and confidence to break through growth barriers and lead congregations as they transition organizationally.
Bi-lingual (Spanish and English) training will be offered by the Great Plains Hispanic Ministry and facilitated by the Rev. Dr. Rubén Saenz Jr., from the Rio Texas Conference.
Registration is $20 and includes training materials, snacks and two meals. See two-page flier (also in Spanish) for event details. Register online. Deadline to register is April 17, 2015. Childcare is free.
Register now for the Aug. 29 ABIDE preview
Are you a small congregation looking to revitalize your ministry? Are you looking to strengthen leadership development among folks in the church? If yes, your congregation could be just right for ABIDE.
Abide is a process of learning and revitalization for small attendance congregations (about 50 and fewer in worship). Laity and pastor together form a covenant team of leaders who seek and follow God’s vision for their congregation and community.
A preview of this energizing and spirit-filled process for small church development will take place Aug. 29, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., in both Lincoln, Nebraska, and Wichita, Kansas. The event is free although donations to cover lunch are appreciated.
Register online now. If you need more information, contact Micki McCorkle at mmccorkle@greatplainsumc.org or 316-210-3996.
Register now for Spring Training for youth ministry workers
Thought you missed Spring Training? Nope! Our youth ministry training events are Friday, April 17 – Saturday, April 18, at Trinity UMC in Salina, Kansas, and Saturday, April 18 – Sunday, April 19, at First UMC in Kearney, Nebraska. Just choose the one that works for your schedule or location. Both events start at 6:30 p.m. on the first day and end at 3 p.m. on the second day.
Your church's entire youth ministry team is invited. Bring all adults who work with youth - youth leaders, Sunday School teachers, pastors, Confirmation mentors, etc.
We're offering everyone box seats right behind the dugout for nosebleed prices. You'll be treated like an MVP, you'll learn from a great coach, and you'll add lots of tricks to your playbook. Registration is open through Monday at https://gp-reg.brtapp.com/SpringTraining2015 but you should sign up ASAP before the bench is filled. Batter up!
Cost is $79 for a team of up to four people. Each additional team member is $20. Cost includes snacks on Friday evening and lunch on Saturday afternoon. Each team will receive a bundle of "major league" resources for use in your ministry.
Free childcare will be available for children up to 12 years old. Children must be pre-registered.
Download a flier: www.greatplainsyouth.org/files/2015/02/Spring-Training.pdf
Read more: www.greatplainsyouth.org/upcoming-events/spring-training/
Magnets provide instructions in times following disasters
Kansas and Nebraska both face their share of disasters each year. It’s not a matter of if the residents of the two Great Plains Conference states will face challenges because of disasters. It’s a matter of when.
Sometimes, it’s helpful to have a reminder of whom to call or how to proceed if a disaster strikes your church, your community, anywhere in our conference or even beyond our borders. The Great Plains Conference wants to help by providing a magnet with instructions and phone numbers of whom to call when disasters strike.
These magnets, perfect for the refrigerator or other magnetic surfaces, will be available for free at various events around the conference and at the annual conference session June 10-13 in Wichita, courtesy of Disaster Response Ministries.
Easter Bunny visits the University of Kansas
Students on campus at the University of Kansas (KU), in Lawrence, Kansas, were treated to a visitor last week — the Easter Bunny was sighted near Wescoe Beach (Hall). New Church Start pastor, the Rev. Jacob Cloud, was there, along with student leader, Mike Marcus, passing out candy stuffed eggs along with an invitation to attend church and participate in their first Easter service at New Church Lawrence.
Pastor Cloud was also at downtown Lawrence last week with his crew, passing out eggs and inviting folks to church on Sunday. The result was their second largest church service attendance, and that is with most of their students out of town for the Easter holiday.
Jacob, with the help of events planner, Monique Brigham, has many activities planned for the rest of April. If you have students attending KU, send Jacob an email so he can personally invite them to future events. You can contact Jacob at Jacob@newchurchlawrence.org, or call the Five Rivers District office, at 785-841-4804. The district office will make sure they are added to the communication going out weekly.
American Christian women get frank about faith
Talking Taboo, part of the I Speak for Myself series, will be held Tuesday, April 21, from 6:30-8 p.m. at Wesley Covenant Chapel – Church of the Resurrection, 13720 Roe Ave. (east building), Leawood, Kansas.
Featured speakers included Kristen Eichelberger, Dr. Christy Sim, the Rev. Lydia Istomina and the Rev. Lara Blackwood Pickrel.
Talking Taboo is sponsored by Women in Ministry at Saint Paul School of Theology and is supported by a grant from Mercy and Justice Ministries of the Great Plains Conference
View the flier for more information. No registration is necessary.
Carrying the cross
Thirty-five members of the Harlan Lake UMC Parish (Alma and Republican City, Nebraska) and friends experienced “Carrying the Cross” for the first time on Good Friday. Members met in Alma and took turns carrying the cross approximately three miles on the walking trail to Methodist Cove campground at the Harlan County Reservoir. Nine golf carts followed along for those who wanted to ride part or all of the way. Prior to the walk, bottles of water were placed by the trail with a sign that read, “Free to those who thirst for Him.”
When they arrived at the campsite, where Easter sunrise service was to be held, Pastor James Bendorf was carrying the cross. He knelt with the cross before it was stood up. Pastor Bendorf then read the story of the crucifixion from Matthew 27 and closed with prayer. Alma UMC member Jill Bauer’s comment after the walk was, “What an experience.”
Great Plains churches in the news
Penalosa and Cunningham UMCs, in Turon and Cunningham, Kansas, respectively, celebrated Easter morning service the same way they have for more than 50 years - together in a Kingman County pasture.
Read the full article, “A tradition still rises” at HutchNews.com.A tradition still rises
Amy Bickel/The Hutchinson News
Easter Sunrise Service
Bethany Nazarene Church’s sunrise services take place on Teter’s Peak near Hutchinson on Easter morning each year. This photo was taken from the 7 a.m. service in 2014 as the congregation gathered at the crosses.
By Kathy Hanks The Hutchinson Newskhanks@hutchnews.com
by Kathy Hanks
Long before sunrise, Cindy Baker prepared 100 biscuits and sausage for those attending the early morning outdoor service at her family’s pasture in Kingman County.
For more than 50 years, worshipers at both Penalosa and Cunningham United Methodist churches have gathered to watch the sunrise on Easter morning by Oak Pond.
A string of car lights traverses the dirt path. Those attending know the way through the field into the middle of the pasture.
“Easter is such a special time and has special meaning,” Baker said. “We’ve been doing this for years and years.”
That’s the way it has been at Teter’s Peak on Mayfield Road. Further west, this morning, a crowd will gather at Pawnee Rock State Historic Site for a sunrise pageant that has been a local tradition since 1936.
For some congregations, sunrise services are an occasional event they have some years. But consistently these three churches continue the outdoor service just as they sing the traditional Easter hymns, “He Lives” and “Jesus Christ Has Risen Today.”
“It’s something to be outside on resurrection Sunday looking east,” said Jay Bessmer, pastor of Bethany Nazarene Church on Fourth and Kent Road. It’s his congregation that will be meeting at Teter’s Peak, which is the highest point in the pasture that once belonged to Allen and Anna Teter. They placed a cross at the top and two other crosses have been added over the years.
Descendants still live in the area and continue to worship at Bethany. The special spot in the pasture continues to touch generation after generation. Family members keep the area mowed. But those attending don’t drive up the hill; instead, they are shuttled on trailers pulled by tractors driven by the great-grandsons of Allen and Anna Teter.
No matter if the wind is howling and cold, people show up.
Jerry Robinson said something special happens during the service.
“You feel it,” said Robinson. “You are closer to the Lord.”
Marian Snyder believes Teter’s Peak is a tribute to her father.
“It wouldn’t be there if wasn’t for him and his foresight and conviction,” Snyder said. “Our whole family feels our parents led the way, and we walk in their footsteps.”
At Pawnee Rock, the Easter Sunrise Pageant began in 1936. Vivian Bright was just 4 years old at the time. Now, 79 years later, the pageant continues. Through the years Bright has gone from watching in awe, playing a role, to helping with the event north of town.
At one time, it was held every Easter, but then they went to every odd-numbered year. This year, there are 18 characters in full costume. Bright hoped the cast would be there by 6:30 a.m. She would arrive earlier to create a garden out of artificial plants.
Bright’s son, Todd, arrived in town from Texas to attend the pageant. Growing up, he played a soldier back in the 1970s.
“Sometimes it could be a little chilly dressed in the Roman soldier gear,” Todd Bright said.
Following the hour-long service, everyone heads off to their own church. The event is sponsored by Pawnee Rock Ministerial Alliance.
“It’s a big weekend, but it’s fun,” said Vivian Bright.
Back in Kingman County, Cindy Baker said it was her father Melvin Oak’s idea to erect a cross on the highest point in his pasture. Together with his wife, Lorene Oak, they began hosting the sunrise service.
“They wanted to share this lovely location with others,” said Baker. As a child, she remembers her mother baking biscuits from scratch for everyone who attended. She continues the tradition – though she confesses her biscuits are a mix.
Through the decades, there have only been a few times they had to meet at the church because of bad weather. About 15 minutes before sunrise, they light a fire in a pit. People bring their lawn chairs and sit to watch what they hope will be a dramatic show in the east.
About 7 a.m., the sun begins to ascend.
“If the sun is just right, the three crosses are reflected in the pond,” Baker said.
Along with the singing, the pastor gives a devotional. Following the service, everyone enjoys the tailgate breakfast of biscuits and sausage, donuts, hot chocolate, coffee and orange juice.
“A lot of different people make it happen,” said Baker. Though there are cattle in the pasture, they generally stay away from the crowd.Congregations across the Great Plains Conference are making the news in their local newspapers. View our newspaper clipping reports to see if there are stories, ideas and ministry happenings you can learn from to use in your own congregation. Press clips can be found at greatplainsumc.org/inthenews.
Young Preachers Festival and Conference to be held at Church of the Resurrection
The United Methodist Church of the Resurrection is pleased to announce the inaugural National Young Preachers Festival and Conference being held at the Leawood, Kansas, campus July 16-17, 2015.
The Young Preachers Festival and Conference is part of a movement to raise up the next generation of young preachers for The United Methodist Church.
This event is designed specifically to help young adults discern their calling, learn from and network with preaching leaders from across our denomination and develop more fully as a preacher.
Who Should Attend?
High school juniors and seniors
College and seminary students
Youth pastors
Declared candidates for ministry
Young clergy
Any young adults who are seeking to discover more about this amazing call to ordained ministry
Each leader will experience:
Keynote preaching sessions led by the Rev. Jasmine Smothers, the Rev. Adam Weber, the Rev. Junius Dotson and the Rev. Adam Hamilton
Inspiring and practical workshops led by seminary faculty and denominational leaders
A powerful evening concert featuring Glory Revival
Intentional time of networking and connection
Optional opportunity to preach their own sermon and receive instant feedback
Time in a small group with Pastor Adam Hamilton to debrief his Saturday, July 17, 5 p.m., sermon
Registration is limited, so register early atwww.youngpreachersfestival.org.
Clergy health: Conflict and the Brain
Are difficult conversations and potential conflict situations a regular part of your ministry? Do you find yourself attempting to balance strongly held views in your work? If so, "Conflict and the Brain" is for you.
Drew Theological School, Center for Clergy and Congregational Health and Wholeness, in Madison, New Jersey, will host Dr. Wesley Wildman who will present his research on the difference between liberal and conservative thinking based on his research in neuroscience. By understanding the relationship of the workings of a given person’s brain to their strongly held views, he assists us to better understand each other and to become more open to listening and compassionate in our responses.
Time and distance need not prevent you from learning from Dr. Wildman. Watch the live streamed lecture on Thursday, April 9, at 8 a.m. CST. The archived lecture will be available at the same web address following the event.
New pastoral transitions page offers resources
Pastors and congregations who are and will be experiencing a pastoral transition now have a one-stop-shop when it comes to resources to help with saying both goodbye and hello.
Congregants and pastors can go to greatplainsumc.org/pastoraltransitions to find numerous resources. Helpful scriptures, timelined guides, social media practices and suggestions for churches are just a few of the free resources offered in addition to some available for purchase.
Videos will be available soon that include best practices for clergy in transition, a panel discussion by several clergy, and a presentation by Bob Potter, church administrator at Emporia (Kansas) First UMC.
Disaster response training events across the Great Plains
Early Response Training (ERT)
Lunch will be provided during the sessions and there will be a free will offering to help with cost.
Saturday, April 11 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., at Haysville UMC, 601 E Grand Ave, Haysville, KS 67060. For more information, contact, Keith Fink, Great Plains Disaster Response co-chair, at kfink@greatplainsumc.org. Cost is $25, register here.
Saturday, April 18 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., at Sterling UMC, 137 N. Broadway Ave. Sterling, KS 67579. Lunch will be provided and there will be a free will offering to help with cost. For more information, contact, Joshua Johnson, Hutchinson District coordinator, at joshua.johnson@greatplainsumc.org. Cost is $25, register here.
Saturday, May 2 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., at First United Methodist Church, 421 N Spruce St., Ogallala, Nebraska. For more information, contact Dave Baltzell atdocdave69153@gmail.com. Cost is $25, register here.
Saturday, June 6 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., at Humboldt UMC, 806 N 9th St, Humboldt, KS 66748. For more information, contact, Russell Anderson, Southeast Region coordinator atrev.russanderson@gmail.com. Cost is $25, register here.
Connecting Neighbors training
A Connecting Neighbors Training event is schedule to take placeSunday, April 26 from 1-5 p.m., at Belleville UMC, 2013 M St. Belleville, KS 66935. For more information, contact Steve Burnett, Great Plains Disaster Response chair, at srburn@madtel.net. There is no cost to attend, register here.
Basic disaster training
Monday, April 13 from 6-9 p.m., at St. Mark’s UMC, 8550 Pioneer Blvd. Lincoln, NE 68520. There is no cost to attend. Please contact the Rev. Hollie Tapley athtapley@greatplainsumc.org if you will be attending or for more information.
Saturday, May 2 from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m., at Caldwell UMC, 100 West Central Ave, Caldwell, KS 67022. There is no cost to attend. Please contact Jeanine Bevan at 620-845-2513 orbtractor2003@yahoo.com if you will be attending or for more information.
Saturday, May 2 from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m., at Trinity UMC, 224 S Main St, Lindsborg, KS, 67456. There is no cost to attend. Contact Great Plains Disaster Response Coordinator Rev. Hollie Tapley at 316-978-9761 or htapley@greatplainsumc.orgif you will be attending or for more information.
ESL allows Pleasant Valley UMC to reach Hispanic community
For their fourth year of offering ESL (English as a Second Language) at Pleasant Valley United Methodist Church in Wichita, Kansas, Jennifer and Tim Jepsen expected the weekly average of 92 students. However they saw 134 Hispanic people walk through the door on the first day of the semester.
Pleasant Valley UMC is dedicated to serving the Hispanic community by providing quality language instruction to Spanish speaking people. The ESL program is one of their primary outreach ministries, meeting every Thursday for eight weeks in the fall and nine weeks in the spring.
Read more at greatplainsumc.org/newsdetail/1006499ESL allows Pleasant Valley UMC to reach Hispanic community
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The ESL (English as a Second Language) program at Pleasant Valley United Methodist Church in Wichita, Kansas, is dedicated to serving the Hispanic community by providing quality language instruction to Spanish speaking people. The ESL program is one of the primary outreach ministries of Pleasant Valley UMC. Each spring and fall semester, Jennifer Jepsen along with her husband, Tim, hosts the ESL program every Thursday. The program lasts for eight weeks in the fall and nine weeks in the spring.
Thursday, Feb. 26, was the start of the program’s spring semester of their fourth year serving at Pleasant Valley UMC. The weekly average of students in the ESL program is 92, however, the program saw 134 Hispanic people walk through the door on the first day of the semester. The program started with a meal provided by Olive Garden. Afterwards, the adults were pre-tested and placed into one of six different levels to study English in small groups with a skilled teacher. Meanwhile, the children were taught music, science and crafts lessons. Towards the end of the event, students and teachers joined together in a large circle to sing worship songs in English and Spanish. The event concluded with devotional time led by Pastor Tim Jepsen.
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Thursday, Feb. 26, was the start of the program’s spring semester of their fourth year serving at Pleasant Valley UMC. The weekly average of students in the ESL program is 92, however, the program saw 134 Hispanic people walk through the door on the first day of the semester. The program started with a meal provided by Olive Garden. Afterwards, the adults were pre-tested and placed into one of six different levels to study English in small groups with a skilled teacher. Meanwhile, the children were taught music, science and crafts lessons. Towards the end of the event, students and teachers joined together in a large circle to sing worship songs in English and Spanish. The event concluded with devotional time led by Pastor Tim Jepsen.
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“This program has helped me a lot,” said ESL student Beatrice Martinez. “The first time I came here I didn’t speak any English at all, but now because of the program I understand a lot more now.
The Jepsens started ESL as missionaries in Mexico before bringing it to the United States. They brought the program to Pleasant Valley UMC with the intention of reaching the Hispanic community with the Gospel.
“Our goal was to plant an Hispanic church within an already established Anglo-congregation,” Jennifer said. “We wanted to work with a church that was looking to reach out to their changing neighborhood.”
The Jepsens’ goal was fulfilled in July of 2012 when they started the Hispanic church called El Pueblo de Dios. Approximately 30-40 people attend and services are held every Sunday at Pleasant Valley UMC from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.
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The Jepsens started ESL as missionaries in Mexico before bringing it to the United States. They brought the program to Pleasant Valley UMC with the intention of reaching the Hispanic community with the Gospel.
“Our goal was to plant an Hispanic church within an already established Anglo-congregation,” Jennifer said. “We wanted to work with a church that was looking to reach out to their changing neighborhood.”
The Jepsens’ goal was fulfilled in July of 2012 when they started the Hispanic church called El Pueblo de Dios. Approximately 30-40 people attend and services are held every Sunday at Pleasant Valley UMC from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.
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Over the past four years, the ESL program has reached more than 1,500 Hispanics. The program currently serves Latino students from countries such as Guatemala, Mexico, El Salvador, Cuba, Columbia, Honduras and Puerto Rico. Besides providing students with language instruction, ESL also offers students citizenship tutoring as well as GED class provided by Butler Community College.
“One of our goals is to get them to be citizens so they can be rooted in the community,” Jennifer said. “We are trying to break down some of the walls that have been built where people take but don’t give back.”
Sydney Seeby, an ESL teacher said that she enjoys how ESL brings diversity to the Pleasant Valley congregation.
“This church is surrounded by a diverse neighborhood,” Seeby said. “ This is a great program and I’m happy that they brought ESL to this church.”
Sandy Binn, another ESL teacher, said that she enjoys getting to build relationships with her ESL students. She started teaching with the program four years ago and says that it has been a blessing to be able to watch her students grow and gain confidence with English.
“I see that the students feel welcome here,” Binn said. “That’s because this is really like a home, a home away from home.”Young Clergy Leadership Forum leaves lasting impact on Great Plains clergy
The Great Plains Mercy and Justice Team sponsored the Rev. Kirstie Garnes to attend the 12th annual Young Clergy Leadership Forum in Washington D.C. at the General Board of Church and Society (GBCS). Held Jan. 26-29 on Capitol Hill, the event was limited to 75 participants, age 35 or younger, provisional or ordained clergy serving in full-time appointments to local congregations.
The theme this year focused on one question: “How can we come together to build a world where all people are able to flourish - spiritually and physically - and enjoy the abundant life God desires for all?” Garnes submitted the following photos and summary of her experience.
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My time in Washington D.C. at GBCS was a life transforming event that I will never forget. The first life changing experience that has positively impacted me and the way I view ministry is having the opportunity to stay at Galludet University. Being a part of the deaf and hearing impaired community really opened up my eyes to a new way of living. The experience challenged my communication and interpersonal skills and as a result helped me to become a more inclusive, open pastor.
The second life changing experience that I encountered was being able to hear the stories of various leaders in the UMC and hear their platforms on various social justice issues such as women and children advocacy, poverty, LBGTQ concerns and four life-changing presentations from staff members working on the continent of Africa. One of the questions that I will always remember from Susan Burton who spoke on women and children's rights was, "What would the church look like if women and girls were seen as children of God with sacred worth?" Quotes like these and more encouraged me to never get tired of pursuing social justice and equality inside and outside of the church.
Lastly, one of the most impactful experiences I had was being able to meet Chaplain Barry Black of the U.S. senate and being able to hear his faith story; his time during the Civil Rights era and his ministry to the senators. I remember one of my colleagues asked him, "Can you tell me about Selma?" Chaplain Barry's reply was, "I am Selma!" That was a priceless moment for me.
Leaving this conference, I felt more empowered that I can make a difference in this world. I felt like my voice mattered. Furthermore, I felt privileged to be a part of the United Methodist Church because it became apparent to me that not only does my voice matter, but the Church wants to give people like me a chance to use my voice for the transformation of all people in Christ Jesus. Hallelujah![Rev. Kirstie Garnes]
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Lives touched through UMGAF grant
Reaching out in Christ’s love, UM4GI, the parish of Grand Island (Nebraska) Trinity UMC and First-Faith UMC, has established an Emergency HIV AIDS Fund to help meet needs of Nebraska AIDS Project clients in the region. To help augment the fund, a spring benefit concert is held with regional musicians. Then during Advent, the churches have a Baskets of Love silent auction with individuals and groups donating theme baskets.
In 2014, as in previous years, UM4GI was blessed to receive a grant through the Nebraska, and now Great Plains, United Methodist Global AIDS Fund (UMGAF). This has kept the emergency fund strong and allowed the Global AIDS Fund to touch the lives of many living with HIV AIDS. Following is the story of one individual assisted this past year.
Joe, a client of the regional Nebraska AIDS Project (NAP), had recently lost his job. As he searched for a new job, he quickly depleted his own resources. Joe had no family to rely on for help and he didn’t want to burden friends. He put his clothes and personal items in his vehicle and made the difficult transition into life as a homeless man.
NAP worked with Joe, who spoke limited English, and helped him get temporary housing at a community shelter. They connected him with agencies to help with basic needs and assist in his job search.
NAP caseworkers were able to use the UM4GI Emergency HIV AIDS Fund to make sure Joe had cell phone service at all times to communicate with the professional supports working with him, and to assure potential employers could reach him. The fund also helped provide transportation to job interviews and food assistance so he could maintain proper nutrition.
Joe is now working full time at a job he likes, and has moved into stable housing. Joe has stated that he has much to be thankful for, and he is grateful for the support he was given through the UM4GI Emergency HIV AIDS Fund.
To view more about the Great Plains Global AIDS Fund, and to donate, go to greatplainsumc.org/globalaidsfund.
United Methodists take action to end family detention
All are invited to the event May 2
“My sister has been incarcerated for 9 months. What did she do to deserve this? She was escaping a terrible violence and now she is living another nightmare at Karnes with her son.” Ana Jovel, sister of a detained mother, detained with her 10 year old son.
Representatives from the Great Plains Conference were part of a conference call with Carol Barton, United Methodist Women; Melissa Bowe, National Justice For Our Neighbors; Bill Mefford, General Board of Church and Society; and members of other faith and immigrant groups who are organizing actions for May 2 and beyond.
United Methodist Deaconess Cindy Johnson participated last October in a rally at the Karnes County family detention center in Texas and wrote afterwards:
“No child should ever be detained. That is why I was part of the rally at Karnes County family detention center on Saturday, October 11, 2014. I was asked to say a few words at closing prayer of the rally. I told the more than 120 who attended the rally that United Methodist Women was working to do away with child detention. I also told them I was thankful that United Methodist Women has such a strong stance for the rights of immigrants.”
“While working to close that detention center we also advocated for the U.S. ratification of the U. N. Convention on the Rights of the Child. While that was not accomplished, with all the new for-profit detention centers being built, we must speak out on why the U.N. Convention on the Rights of the Child has not been signed by the U.S. Had it been signed, children would not be allowed to be in detention, and for-profit centers would not be making record profits. At this time, another large for-profit family detention center in Dilley, Texas, is set to open. United Methodist Women and all people who put the interest of children first must oppose these for-profit centers and support the U.N. Convention on the Rights of the Child.”
In the meantime the detention center at Dilley, Texas, has opened. United Methodists together with other immigrant and faith communities are planning a march and protest in Dilley on May 2. The many will not be able to be there in person are invited to be in solidarity by organizing prayer vigils in churches and communities, sending prayers which could be read at the march, and participating in letter-writing activities. More information will be coming soon. If you would like to be involved, please contact Sandy Sypherd at ssypherd@windstream.net or Andrea Paret atamparet08@yahoo.com.
Photo: Dilley Detention Center under construction
Gun violence prevention resources now available on website
At the 2014 Great Plains Annual Conference Session, the resolution “Christians Respond to Gun Violence” was passed. Now, in addition to the resolution, you can find a variety of study material and other resources at greatplainsumc.org/gunviolenceprevention.
Kansas Wesleyan thanks conference
Editor’s note: The following letter was sent to GPconnect from Matthew Thompson, Kansas Wesleyan president and CEO.
Kansas Wesleyan University is proud of its storied 128-year history and the important role it has played as an institution affiliated with the United Methodist Church. While my short tenure as president seems like a brief chapter in the university’s history book, it is full of immense appreciation for and gratitude toward the Great Plains Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church. The conference’s support allows us to provide robust programming to enhance the spiritual development of our students, faculty and staff. We are proud to have the largest weekly attendance of any GPC campus ministry program, to host an annual community-wide prayer breakfast and to be one of six sites in the nation selected by Upper Room Ministries for developing new young adult programs. We are appreciative of the Bishop, clergy and lay leaders for their commitment to KWU. We look forward to the continued ways God will call us to serve the GPC.
Sincerely,
Matthew R. Thompson, Ph.D.
President and CEO
Kansas Wesleyan University
Newsletters
General Board of Church and Society: Faith in Action
Lewis Center for Church Development: Update – a report from the director
Ministry Matters: April 7, 2015
South Central Jurisdiction: Woven Together
United Methodist Church Development Center: Spiritual Giving
Classified
Children's ministry team leader needed at Living Water UMC
Faith UMC in Hutchinson in need of youth ministry coordinator
Kearney First UMC seeks senior high minister
Lenexa UMC looking for director of children's ministries
Resurrection West looking for director of children's ministries
Towanda UMC seeks nursery worker
View these and other classifieds at greatplainsumc.org/classifieds.
Kansas Area United Methodist Foundation announces April rates for Certificates of Participation
he Kansas Area United Methodist Foundation's Certificate of Participation provides an investment alternative for those who are seeking the security of a fixed income type vehicle at competitive rates. It is an excellent option for investors who like to invest in certificate of deposits or money market funds. These certificates have been registered only with the State of Kansas Securities Commissioner and are not offered in any other state or jurisdiction. For April the rate for 12 month term is 0.80% and the rate for 24 month term is 1.10%. Interest rates for the Certificate of Participation are reviewed and adjusted (if necessary) on a monthly basis.
The Certificate of Participation Fund is the funding source of our Church Development Loan Fund Program providing loans to United Methodist Churches and United Methodist institutions throughout the state of Kansas for the purchase of real estate, building new church starts, renovating existing buildings, large maintenance projects, operating needs and re-financing existing indebtedness. Participation in a Foundation’s Certificate of Participation is available only to residents of Kansas as well as Kansas United Methodist churches and institutions.
Investment particulars
$1,000 minimum investment - 12 month term or 24 month term
No penalty for early withdrawal for special circumstances
Simple Application Process - must obtain an Offering Circular
Variable rate of interest adjusted monthly based on Wall Street Journal Prime
No fixed rate is possible and there is no minimum rate of interest
If you would like to receive a copy of the Foundation’s Certificate of Participation Offering Circular, including an application for participation, please contact the Foundation office directly at 888.453.8405 orfoundation@kaumf.org or www.kaumf.org.
This article does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy a security.
Editorial Policy: The content, news, events and announcement information distributed in GPconnect is not sponsored or endorsed by the Great Plains Methodist Conference unless specifically stated.
To submit a letter to the editor, send it to info@greatplainsumc.org.
____________________________
“One of our goals is to get them to be citizens so they can be rooted in the community,” Jennifer said. “We are trying to break down some of the walls that have been built where people take but don’t give back.”
Sydney Seeby, an ESL teacher said that she enjoys how ESL brings diversity to the Pleasant Valley congregation.
“This church is surrounded by a diverse neighborhood,” Seeby said. “ This is a great program and I’m happy that they brought ESL to this church.”
Sandy Binn, another ESL teacher, said that she enjoys getting to build relationships with her ESL students. She started teaching with the program four years ago and says that it has been a blessing to be able to watch her students grow and gain confidence with English.
“I see that the students feel welcome here,” Binn said. “That’s because this is really like a home, a home away from home.”Young Clergy Leadership Forum leaves lasting impact on Great Plains clergy
The Great Plains Mercy and Justice Team sponsored the Rev. Kirstie Garnes to attend the 12th annual Young Clergy Leadership Forum in Washington D.C. at the General Board of Church and Society (GBCS). Held Jan. 26-29 on Capitol Hill, the event was limited to 75 participants, age 35 or younger, provisional or ordained clergy serving in full-time appointments to local congregations.
The theme this year focused on one question: “How can we come together to build a world where all people are able to flourish - spiritually and physically - and enjoy the abundant life God desires for all?” Garnes submitted the following photos and summary of her experience.
My time in Washington D.C. at GBCS was a life transforming event that I will never forget. The first life changing experience that has positively impacted me and the way I view ministry is having the opportunity to stay at Galludet University. Being a part of the deaf and hearing impaired community really opened up my eyes to a new way of living. The experience challenged my communication and interpersonal skills and as a result helped me to become a more inclusive, open pastor.
The second life changing experience that I encountered was being able to hear the stories of various leaders in the UMC and hear their platforms on various social justice issues such as women and children advocacy, poverty, LBGTQ concerns and four life-changing presentations from staff members working on the continent of Africa. One of the questions that I will always remember from Susan Burton who spoke on women and children's rights was, "What would the church look like if women and girls were seen as children of God with sacred worth?" Quotes like these and more encouraged me to never get tired of pursuing social justice and equality inside and outside of the church.
Lastly, one of the most impactful experiences I had was being able to meet Chaplain Barry Black of the U.S. senate and being able to hear his faith story; his time during the Civil Rights era and his ministry to the senators. I remember one of my colleagues asked him, "Can you tell me about Selma?" Chaplain Barry's reply was, "I am Selma!" That was a priceless moment for me.
Leaving this conference, I felt more empowered that I can make a difference in this world. I felt like my voice mattered. Furthermore, I felt privileged to be a part of the United Methodist Church because it became apparent to me that not only does my voice matter, but the Church wants to give people like me a chance to use my voice for the transformation of all people in Christ Jesus. Hallelujah![Rev. Kirstie Garnes]
Lives touched through UMGAF grant
Reaching out in Christ’s love, UM4GI, the parish of Grand Island (Nebraska) Trinity UMC and First-Faith UMC, has established an Emergency HIV AIDS Fund to help meet needs of Nebraska AIDS Project clients in the region. To help augment the fund, a spring benefit concert is held with regional musicians. Then during Advent, the churches have a Baskets of Love silent auction with individuals and groups donating theme baskets.
In 2014, as in previous years, UM4GI was blessed to receive a grant through the Nebraska, and now Great Plains, United Methodist Global AIDS Fund (UMGAF). This has kept the emergency fund strong and allowed the Global AIDS Fund to touch the lives of many living with HIV AIDS. Following is the story of one individual assisted this past year.
Joe, a client of the regional Nebraska AIDS Project (NAP), had recently lost his job. As he searched for a new job, he quickly depleted his own resources. Joe had no family to rely on for help and he didn’t want to burden friends. He put his clothes and personal items in his vehicle and made the difficult transition into life as a homeless man.
NAP worked with Joe, who spoke limited English, and helped him get temporary housing at a community shelter. They connected him with agencies to help with basic needs and assist in his job search.
NAP caseworkers were able to use the UM4GI Emergency HIV AIDS Fund to make sure Joe had cell phone service at all times to communicate with the professional supports working with him, and to assure potential employers could reach him. The fund also helped provide transportation to job interviews and food assistance so he could maintain proper nutrition.
Joe is now working full time at a job he likes, and has moved into stable housing. Joe has stated that he has much to be thankful for, and he is grateful for the support he was given through the UM4GI Emergency HIV AIDS Fund.
To view more about the Great Plains Global AIDS Fund, and to donate, go to greatplainsumc.org/globalaidsfund.
United Methodists take action to end family detention
All are invited to the event May 2
“My sister has been incarcerated for 9 months. What did she do to deserve this? She was escaping a terrible violence and now she is living another nightmare at Karnes with her son.” Ana Jovel, sister of a detained mother, detained with her 10 year old son.
Representatives from the Great Plains Conference were part of a conference call with Carol Barton, United Methodist Women; Melissa Bowe, National Justice For Our Neighbors; Bill Mefford, General Board of Church and Society; and members of other faith and immigrant groups who are organizing actions for May 2 and beyond.
United Methodist Deaconess Cindy Johnson participated last October in a rally at the Karnes County family detention center in Texas and wrote afterwards:
“No child should ever be detained. That is why I was part of the rally at Karnes County family detention center on Saturday, October 11, 2014. I was asked to say a few words at closing prayer of the rally. I told the more than 120 who attended the rally that United Methodist Women was working to do away with child detention. I also told them I was thankful that United Methodist Women has such a strong stance for the rights of immigrants.”
“While working to close that detention center we also advocated for the U.S. ratification of the U. N. Convention on the Rights of the Child. While that was not accomplished, with all the new for-profit detention centers being built, we must speak out on why the U.N. Convention on the Rights of the Child has not been signed by the U.S. Had it been signed, children would not be allowed to be in detention, and for-profit centers would not be making record profits. At this time, another large for-profit family detention center in Dilley, Texas, is set to open. United Methodist Women and all people who put the interest of children first must oppose these for-profit centers and support the U.N. Convention on the Rights of the Child.”
In the meantime the detention center at Dilley, Texas, has opened. United Methodists together with other immigrant and faith communities are planning a march and protest in Dilley on May 2. The many will not be able to be there in person are invited to be in solidarity by organizing prayer vigils in churches and communities, sending prayers which could be read at the march, and participating in letter-writing activities. More information will be coming soon. If you would like to be involved, please contact Sandy Sypherd at ssypherd@windstream.net or Andrea Paret atamparet08@yahoo.com.
Photo: Dilley Detention Center under construction
Gun violence prevention resources now available on website
At the 2014 Great Plains Annual Conference Session, the resolution “Christians Respond to Gun Violence” was passed. Now, in addition to the resolution, you can find a variety of study material and other resources at greatplainsumc.org/gunviolenceprevention.
Kansas Wesleyan thanks conference
Editor’s note: The following letter was sent to GPconnect from Matthew Thompson, Kansas Wesleyan president and CEO.
Kansas Wesleyan University is proud of its storied 128-year history and the important role it has played as an institution affiliated with the United Methodist Church. While my short tenure as president seems like a brief chapter in the university’s history book, it is full of immense appreciation for and gratitude toward the Great Plains Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church. The conference’s support allows us to provide robust programming to enhance the spiritual development of our students, faculty and staff. We are proud to have the largest weekly attendance of any GPC campus ministry program, to host an annual community-wide prayer breakfast and to be one of six sites in the nation selected by Upper Room Ministries for developing new young adult programs. We are appreciative of the Bishop, clergy and lay leaders for their commitment to KWU. We look forward to the continued ways God will call us to serve the GPC.
Sincerely,
Matthew R. Thompson, Ph.D.
President and CEO
Kansas Wesleyan University
Newsletters
General Board of Church and Society: Faith in Action
Lewis Center for Church Development: Update – a report from the director
Ministry Matters: April 7, 2015
South Central Jurisdiction: Woven Together
United Methodist Church Development Center: Spiritual Giving
Classified
Children's ministry team leader needed at Living Water UMC
Faith UMC in Hutchinson in need of youth ministry coordinator
Kearney First UMC seeks senior high minister
Lenexa UMC looking for director of children's ministries
Resurrection West looking for director of children's ministries
Towanda UMC seeks nursery worker
View these and other classifieds at greatplainsumc.org/classifieds.
Kansas Area United Methodist Foundation announces April rates for Certificates of Participation
he Kansas Area United Methodist Foundation's Certificate of Participation provides an investment alternative for those who are seeking the security of a fixed income type vehicle at competitive rates. It is an excellent option for investors who like to invest in certificate of deposits or money market funds. These certificates have been registered only with the State of Kansas Securities Commissioner and are not offered in any other state or jurisdiction. For April the rate for 12 month term is 0.80% and the rate for 24 month term is 1.10%. Interest rates for the Certificate of Participation are reviewed and adjusted (if necessary) on a monthly basis.
The Certificate of Participation Fund is the funding source of our Church Development Loan Fund Program providing loans to United Methodist Churches and United Methodist institutions throughout the state of Kansas for the purchase of real estate, building new church starts, renovating existing buildings, large maintenance projects, operating needs and re-financing existing indebtedness. Participation in a Foundation’s Certificate of Participation is available only to residents of Kansas as well as Kansas United Methodist churches and institutions.
Investment particulars
$1,000 minimum investment - 12 month term or 24 month term
No penalty for early withdrawal for special circumstances
Simple Application Process - must obtain an Offering Circular
Variable rate of interest adjusted monthly based on Wall Street Journal Prime
No fixed rate is possible and there is no minimum rate of interest
If you would like to receive a copy of the Foundation’s Certificate of Participation Offering Circular, including an application for participation, please contact the Foundation office directly at 888.453.8405 orfoundation@kaumf.org or www.kaumf.org.
This article does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy a security.
Editorial Policy: The content, news, events and announcement information distributed in GPconnect is not sponsored or endorsed by the Great Plains Methodist Conference unless specifically stated.
To submit a letter to the editor, send it to info@greatplainsumc.org.
____________________________
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