Great Plains Annual Conference Communications of The United Methodist Church "GPconnect" for Wednesday, 27 May 2015
In this edition of GPconnect:
ANNOUNCEMENTS
EQUIP DISCIPLES
MERCY AND JUSTICE
OTHER NEWS
Early Response Teams asked to help in Texas
The Rio Texas Conference and the South Central Jurisdiction? extend an invitation for ERT-trained responders to help our neighbors in Wimberley and San Marcos, Texas.
Register your team at http://riotexas.org/flood-updates. Notify Great Plains Conference Disaster Response Coordinator Rev. Hollie Tapley athtapley@greatplainsumc.org that your team will be registering so she will be aware of Great Plains United Methodists who respond to this disaster.
Recent news about the flooding in Texas:
Attention members of Annual Conference
The conference workbook contains only a summary budget and summaries of the various strategic plans. Lay and clergy members of conference who are interested in the detailed budget and/or detailed strategic plans are encouraged to view and/or download these additional documents prior to attending the Great Plains Annual Conference Session.
Social Action banquet planned for June 9 in Wichita
Tickets are on sale now for the Great Plains Methodist Federation for Social Action banquet, which is scheduled for Tuesday, June 9, at College Hill United Methodist Church, 2930 E. First St. North in Wichita, Kansas.
The supper will be served promptly at 5 p.m. and will conclude by 6:35 p.m. to allow guests who choose to take part in the conference-sponsored meet-and-greets to travel to the laity and clergy locations. The meal will be catered by the Wichita restaurant Truffles and will feature chicken alfredo and vegetarian marinara pasta with salad and vegetable side dish.
The program will include guest speaker Harry Knox speaking on the topic "United Methodism and Social Justice," a presentation of the Jimmy Creech Profile of Justice scholarship, the introduction of those present who are running for the Great Plains delegation to the General and Jurisdictional conferences, and approval of the Great Plains MFSA Chapter 2015-2016 officers and organizing principles.
To order tickets, mail $15 per ticket, postmarked by June 1, to South Gate UMC, 3500 Pioneers Blvd., Lincoln, NE 68506. Checks should be made out to Great Plains MFSA.
Fill the UMCOR truck at the Great Plains Annual Conference Session
A semi-trailer will be available June 9-11, to accept United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR) donations. UMCOR truck will arrive at the Century II Performing Arts and Convention Center, in Wichita, Kansas, on Tuesday, June 9 and will be there Wednesday, June 10 and Thursday, June 11.
Note: There will not be another drop-off location and the truck will notbe available June 12 or 13.
What to bring
Items needed include treadle sewing machines (Midwest Mission Distribution Center has a repair shop to work on them), cloth diapers, receiving blankets and any of the UMCOR kits listed online - bedding kits, sewing kits, school kits, birthing kits, cleaning buckets, health kits and more. The best way to know how to assemble kits would be to go tomidwestmissiondc.org and click on ‘Projects’ or ‘Kits.’ There you can see all the requirements for items. In addition to complete kits, individual and bulk materials will be accepted.
How to package and label kits
Please, no sacks! More than three-four kits or seven-eight bulk items should be in labeled boxes, not bags. Mark each box, or print a summary list and tape to the outside, telling of contents of each box. Partially filled boxes (not sealed) are welcome so single kits from other churches can be added.
How to handle the money
For each kit, UMCOR asks for a one dollar donation to assist in shipping to places of need, or approximately $15-$20 for boxes of bulk materials. Do not put cash in a kit or box, but convert to check, payable to MMDC (Midwest Mission Distribution Center).
Volunteers are needed at the truck
Short term volunteers (for two-four hours at a time) are needed to help record the donated supplies. To volunteer, please contact the Rev. Kalaba Chali at kchali@greatplainsumc.org or call 316-684-0266.
Mission Academy 2015 registration now open
Registration is now open for the South Central Jurisdiction Mission Academy, Sept. 25-27 at Camp Hoblizelle in Midlothian, Texas. With topics ranging from disaster to poverty to leadership, you can create an academy experience that is all your own. The first 30 people to register get a $20 discount. So register today and join us for this wonderful experience.
Bishop Gary E. Mueller sends greetings to Aldersgate Covenant attendees
Editor’s Note: the following message was sent on behalf of Bishop Mueller and Mary Brooke Casad.
It’s been a year since almost 200 United Methodists gathered for a 20-hour experience of worship, prayer and holy conversation. The Gathering of the Aldersgate Covenant, held at Church of the Resurrection in Leawood, Kansas, was an open invitation to pray for spiritual revival in the UMC.
As we prepared to return home, we joined together in a covenant of continued prayers for the revival of The United Methodist Church so that we will be empowered to faithfully carry out our mission of making disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world. Additionally, we committed to offer Spirit-led actions in our various places of ministry that will prepare us for, and be expressions of, spiritual revival.
Several participants recently shared how their discipleship journey was impacted following the Aldersgate Covenant Gathering:
“I have sought to be an ambassador of revival: reclaiming the word/concept, inviting others to pray for the Holy Spirit to come, lifting up signs of the Spirit at work among us, and challenging others to seek and trust in God's will and work among and through United Methodists.”
“I continue to pray for revival. I share prayer requests and stories of revival happening in our own communities.”
“I encourage folks to seek personal revival as the starting point we all must have. I have sought out persons who I know I have disagreements with on the major issues and have asked for forgiveness for my attitude towards them and expressed a desire to find a common ground.”
“Pray, pray, pray and be fearless in living out the ways that God calls us to love one another!”
“My hope for the future of the church was renewed at the conference. This hope has inspired me to try to move through each of my new activities believing God will lead the church. I believe I can make a difference when I stay connected with God through prayer, searching the Scriptures, worship and service in order to share God's love and joy within my church family, my family relationships and my community involvement.”
“Continued opportunities for joining together for prayer are essential. These gatherings without a motive or agenda other than listening to God are vital to our ability to discern how we should move forward.”
The beginnings of the Aldersgate Covenant twenty-one years ago focused on creating legislation that resulted in the 1996 General Conference’s adoption of a mission statement – later amended by the 2008 General Conference – that proclaims, “The mission of the Church is to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world. Local churches provide the most significant arena through which disciple-making occurs.” (¶ 120, The Book of Discipline, 2012)
The legislation also included a “Rationale for Our Mission,” and “The Process for Carrying Out Our Mission,” (¶ 121, 122). These paragraphs, often over-looked, give substance to the why and how of disciple-making. They remind us, like the statements above, that the fulfillment of Christ’s Great Commission comes through trusting in the Spirit to lead the way.
Polarizing rhetoric and actions may garner the most attention and consume our conversations, but the day-to-day disciplines of worship, prayer and service continue to bear witness to Christ’s presence amongst us. Could it be that spiritual revival is happening through individuals and congregations who are faithfully following the Spirit’s leading?
This May 24, as we celebrate the 277th anniversary of John Wesley’s “heart-warming” experience on Aldersgate Street in London, we’re reminded that the Methodist movement began because of the faithfulness of one man. This year, quite appropriately, AldersgateSunday and Pentecost Sunday fall on the same day. Would that the” tongues, as of fire,” represented in our United Methodist Cross and Flame logo, fall afresh on the Church! (Acts 2:3) We continue to offer prayers for disciples of Jesus Christ who are committed to seek spiritual and missional revival through the Holy Spirit. Come, Holy Spirit, come!
GPUMRA to host annual gathering in August
The Great Plains United Methodist Rural Advocates (GPUMRA) will have their annual gathering on Aug. 7 and 8 at First UMC in Hays, Kansas.
The title for the gathering will be Resurrection of Ministry in a Changing Culture. It is designed by and will be led by the Rev. Linda Battello, pastor of the United Methodist Churches at Elsie and Madrid, Nebraska. Also in leadership will be Dr. Carl Ellis, currently pastor of Fredonia (Kansas) UMC and the Rev. James Akins, Hays District superintendent.
The executive committee has felt that one of the areas that the small and rural congregations need for change and growth is spiritual depth. Linda has designed this year’s gathering to help guide the group in that direction.
Registration will begin at 1 p.m., (CDT) on Friday Aug. 7. Use the north (8th Street parking lot) entrance to enter. This will be the handicapped and elevator entrance. The GPUMRA Executive Committee will be meeting from 1 to 3 p.m., and the actual event will begin at 3 p.m. The executive committee is an open meeting. If you would like to sit in on it, you are invited to do so.
The cost of the gathering is $20. Which will include the cost of the event and the evening meal on Friday. While there will be no breakfast served there will be morning snacks. A listing of the motels in Hays will be available from Ron Williams, the executive director, by emailing him atrwilliams@greatplainsumc.org.
The purpose of the Great Plains United Methodist Rural Advocates is to:
promote effective ministry and service in rural Kansas, and Nebraska
serve as an advocate for rural ministry, especially in the Annual and General Conference Sessions
provide programming above and beyond the annual conference with emphasis on rural needs
work with Great Plains Annual Conference committees concerned with rural ministry on matters of mutual interest
assist congregations in interchurch communication and fellowship
promote cooperative/shared ministry
Toxic Charity seminar with author Bob Lupton to be Oct. 24
Together, we can serve our world in a way that affects life-altering change. Join the discussion on Saturday, Oct. 24, 10 a.m.-3 p.m., at Baker University in Baldwin City, Kansas as author Robert Lupton presents on Toxic Charity. His nationally acclaimed book explains how churches and charities hurt those they intend to help, and how we can reverse that system. (See book info on Amazon.com.)
"Public service is a way of life for Americans; giving is a part of our national character. But compassionate instincts and generous spirits aren't enough," says veteran urban activist Robert D. Lupton. In this groundbreaking book, Lupton shows how good-intentioned people are actually hurting the very people they are trying to help.
In his four decades of urban ministry, Lupton has experienced firsthand how our good intentions can have unintended, dire consequences. Join us as Lupton will challenge Great Plains United Methodists to look at their outreach with a new perspective and challenge the many assumptions about effective philanthropy. He will offer specific organizations as examples of what he believes is a healthier model of charity and give practical ideas for how to develop programs that produce deep, measurable and lasting change.
There is no charge for this event. Lunch will be provided. Register online now.
For more information visit GreatPlainsUMC.org/ToxicCharity or contact the Rev. Kalaba Chali at kchali@greatplainsumc.org.
"What Is a Methodist?" sermon series by Bishop Jones this June
Bishop Scott Jones will be preaching a sermon series June 7 through June 21 during the Downtown Alive services at First UMC in Wichita. The series will focus on three key aspects of our Church's faith and practice.
June 7: Life Well Lived
June 14: Give Your Life Away
June 21: Standing in God's Grace
“What Is a Methodist?” Series This June By Bishop Scott Jones
Following Jesus Christ is the best way to live! And I believe the Wesleyan Way of discipleship is the best way to follow Christ. After several decades of following Christ myself, and also studying our United Methodist beliefs and practices, I am excited to share my thoughts with a wide audience on the first three Sundays in June. I am looking forward to this for two reasons. First, I know there are some life-long United Methodists who need help in articulating why they believe the way that they do. This sermon series will be focusing on the basics of our faith and our identity. I expect several people will have the same experience I did in the spring semester of 1978. That year I heard Dr. Albert Outler lecture on Wesley and the Wesleyan tradition. It was like he was describing what I knew deep in my soul but had never been able to say in words. When I heard him describe what it means to be a Wesleyan Christian, I said “That is who I am”. I hope to be able to offer a similar experience to others in these sermons. The second reason is that there are people who are new to the United Methodist Church, or who are considering whether it is the right place for them. I want them to hear about United Methodism at its best, and to receive an invitation to join us on this journey of faith. I know there are many people seeking a biblically based, relevant approach to following Jesus today. Over and over I find people who have been turned off by the shortcomings of people who call themselves Christians and I want to offer authentic Methodism as a better alternative. As bishop, I also know that some of our United Methodist pastors and congregations have wandered far from authentic Wesleyan beliefs and practices. This sermon series will be a way of reminding all of us of who we are and what we are trying to accomplish for Christ. I have wandered in my personal life and as a leader in the church, and talking about United Methodism at its best is a way of re-focusing my energies in the right direction. I often say that “the main thing is to keep the main thing the main thing.” In these sermons I will be preaching to myself as well as to others. My sermon series will focus on three key aspects of our Church’s faith and practice. On June 7, I will preach, “Life Well Lived”, on our beliefs from Ephesians 2:8-10. I want to describe the Wesleyan vision of Christian discipleship. We are saved by grace through faith for good works. While that simple phrase can be easily memorized and repeated, living it requires a lifetime. June 14, I will talk about the character of a Methodist. I will preach on the Great Commandments in Matthew 22:34-40 and Ephesians 4:1-7 with the title “Give Your Life Away”. John Wesley’s essay “The Character of a Methodist” will inform what I say that day. June 21, I will talk about our practices as United Methodists using Romans 5:1-5. Those of us who follow Jesus are standing in God’s grace. That grace leads us through life, and our practices are all about providing channels for that grace to impact our lives and to transform the world. I think United Methodism at its best offers America and the world important answers to key questions facing us. I hope you will join us as we talk about these important questions together. Scott Jameson Jones currently serves as the resident bishop of the Great Plains Area of the United Methodist Church.After serving as pastor of four congregations in the North Texas Annual Conference, he served seven years on the faculty of Perkins School of Theology at Southern Methodist University. There he taught courses in Wesley Studies, United Methodist History and Evangelism. Scott is married to Mary Lou Reece, who is president of Reece Construction Company. They have three children Jameson, Arthur and Marynell.
The Character of a Methodist
by John Wesley
Not as though I had already attained.
TO THE READER
1. SINCE the name first came abroad into the world, many have been at a loss to know what a Methodist is; what are the principles and the practice of those who are commonly called by that name; and what the distinguishing marks of this sect, "which is everywhere spoken against."
2. And it being generally believed, that I was able to give the clearest account of these things, (as having been one of the first to whom that name was given, and the person by whom the rest were supposed to be directed,) I have been called upon, in all manner of ways, and with the utmost earnestness, so to do. I yield at last to the continued importunity both of friends and enemies; and do now give the clearest account I can, in the presence of the Lord and Judge of heaven and earth, of the principles and practice whereby those who are called Methodists are distinguished from other men.
3. I say those who are called Methodists; for, let it be well observed, that this is not a name which they take to themselves, but one fixed upon them by way of reproach, without their approbation or consent. It was first given to three or four young men at Oxford, by a student of Christ Church; either in allusion to the ancient sect of Physicians so called, from their teaching, that almost all diseases might be cured by a specific method of diet and exercise, or from their observing a more regular method of study and behaviour than was usual with those of their age and station.
4. I should rejoice (so little ambitious am I to be at the head of any sect or party) if the very name might never be mentioned more, but be buried in eternal oblivion. But if that cannot be, at least let those who will use it, know the meaning of the word they use. Let us not always be fighting in the dark. Come, and let us look one another in the face. And perhaps some of you who hate what I am called, may love what I am by the grace of God; or rather, what "I follow after, if that I may apprehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus."
The Character of a Methodist
1. THE distinguishing marks of a Methodist are not his opinions of any sort. His assenting to this or that scheme of religion, his embracing any particular set of notions, his espousing the judgment of one man or of another, are all quite wide of the point. Whosoever, therefore, imagines that a Methodist is a man of such or such an opinion, is grossly ignorant of the whole affair; he mistakes the truth totally. We believe, indeed, that "all Scripture is given by the inspiration of God;" and herein we are distinguished from Jews, Turks, and Infidels. We believe the written word of God to be the only and sufficient rule both of Christian faith and practice; and herein we are fundamentally distinguished from those of the Romish Church. We believe Christ to be the eternal, supreme God; and herein we are distinguished from the Socinians and Arians. But as to all opinions which do not strike at the root of Christianity, we think and let think. So that whatsoever they are, whether right or wrong, they are no distinguishing marks of a Methodist.
2. Neither are words or phrases of any sort. We do not place our religion, or any part of it, in being attached to any peculiar mode of speaking, any quaint or uncommon set of expressions. The most obvious, easy, common words, wherein our meaning can be conveyed, we prefer before others, both on ordinary occasions, and when we speak of the things of God. We never, therefore, willingly or designedly, deviate from the most usual way of speaking; unless when we express scripture truths in scripture words, which, we presume, no Christian will condemn. Neither do we affect to use any particular expressions of Scripture more frequently than others, unless they are such as are more frequently used by the inspired writers themselves. So that it is as gross an error, to place the marks of a Methodist in his words, as in opinions of any sort.
3. Nor do we desire to be distinguished by actions, customs, or usages, of an indifferent nature. Our religion does not lie in doing what God has not enjoined, or abstaining from what he hath not forbidden. It does not lie in the form of our apparel, in the posture of our body, or the covering of our heads; nor yet in abstaining from marriage, or from meats and drinks, which are all good if received with thanksgiving. Therefore, neither will any man, who knows whereof he affirms, fix the mark of a Methodist here, -- in any actions or customs purely indifferent, undetermined by the word of God.
4. Nor, lastly, is he distinguished by laying the whole stress of religion on any single part of it. If you say, "Yes, he is; for he thinks 'we are saved by faith alone:'" I answer, You do not understand the terms. By salvation he means holiness of heart and life. And this he affirms to spring from true faith alone. Can even a nominal Christian deny it? Is this placing a part of religion for the whole? "Do we then make void the law through faith? God forbid! Yea, we establish the law." We do not place the whole of religion (as too many do, God knoweth) either in doing no harm, or in doing good, or in using the ordinances of God. No, not in all of them together; wherein we know by experience a man may labour many years, and at the end have no religion at all, no more than he had at the beginning. Much less in any one of these; or, it may be, in a scrap of one of them: Like her who fancies herself a virtuous woman, only because she is not a prostitute; or him who dreams he is an honest man, merely because he does not rob or steal. May the Lord God of my fathers preserve me from such a poor, starved religion as this! Were this the mark of a Methodist, I would sooner choose to be a sincere Jew, Turk, or Pagan.
5. "What then is the mark? Who is a Methodist, according to your own account?" I answer: A Methodist is one who has "the love of God shed abroad in his heart by the Holy Ghost given unto him;" one who "loves the Lord his God with all his heart, and with all his soul, and with all his mind, and with all his strength. God is the joy of his heart, and the desire of his soul; which is constantly crying out, "Whom have I in heaven but thee? and there is none upon earth that I desire beside thee! My God and my all! Thou art the strength of my heart, and my portion for ever!"
6. He is therefore happy in God, yea, always happy, as having in him "a well of water springing up into everlasting life," and overflowing his soul with peace and joy. "Perfect love" having now "cast out fear," he "rejoices evermore." He "rejoices in the Lord always," even "in God his Saviour;" and in the Father, "through our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom he hath now received the atonement." "Having" found "redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of his sins," he cannot but rejoice, whenever he looks back on the horrible pit out of which he is delivered; when he sees "all his transgressions blotted out as a cloud, and his iniquities as a thick cloud." He cannot but rejoice, whenever he looks on the state wherein he now is; "being justified freely, and having peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ." For "he that believeth, hath the witness" of this "in himself;" being now the son of God by faith. "Because he is a son, God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into his heart, crying, Abba, Father!" And "the Spirit itself beareth witness with his spirit, that he is a child of God." He rejoiceth also, whenever he looks forward, "in hope of the glory that shall be revealed;" yea, this his joy is full, and all his bones cry out, "Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who, according to his abundant mercy, hath begotten me again to a living hope -- of an inheritance incorruptible, undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for me!"
7. And he who hath this hope, thus "full of immortality, in everything giveth thanks;" as knowing that this (whatsoever it is) "is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning him." From him, therefore, he cheerfully receives all, saying, "Good is the will of the Lord;" and whether the Lord giveth or taketh away, equally "blessing the name of the Lord." For he hath "learned, in whatsoever state he is, therewith to be content." He knoweth "both how to be abased and how to abound. Everywhere and in all things he is instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and suffer need." Whether in ease or pain, whether in sickness or health, whether in life or death, he giveth thanks from the ground of his heart to Him who orders it for good; knowing that as "every good gift cometh from above," so none but good can come from the Father of Lights, into whose hand he has wholly committed his body and soul, as into the hands of a faithful Creator. He is therefore "careful" (anxiously or uneasily) "for nothing;" as having "cast all his care on Him that careth for him," and "in all things" resting on him, after "making his request known to him with thanksgiving."
8. For indeed he "prays without ceasing." It is given him "always to pray, and not to faint." Not that he is always in the house of prayer; though he neglects no opportunity of being there. Neither is he always on his knees, although he often is, or on his face, before the Lord his God. Nor yet is he always crying aloud to God, or calling upon him in words: For many times "the Spirit maketh intercession for him with groans that cannot be uttered." But at all times the language of his heart is this: "Thou brightness of the eternal glory, unto thee is my heart, though without a voice, and my silence speaketh unto thee." And this is true prayer, and this alone. But his heart is ever lifted up to God, at all times and in all places. In this he is never hindered, much less interrupted, by any person or thing. In retirement or company, in leisure, business, or conversation, his heart is ever with the Lord. Whether he lie down or rise up, God is in all his thoughts; he walks with God continually, having the loving eye of his mind still fixed upon him, and everywhere "seeing Him that is invisible."
9. And while he thus always exercises his love to God, by praying without ceasing, rejoicing evermore, and in everything giving thanks, this commandment is written in his heart, "That he who loveth God, love his brother also." And he accordingly loves his neighbour as himself; he loves every man as his own soul. His heart is full of love to all mankind, to every child of "the Father of the spirits of all flesh." That a man is not personally known to him, is no bar to his love; no, nor that he is known to be such as he approves not, that he repays hatred for his good-will. For he "loves his enemies;" yea, and the enemies of God, "the evil and the unthankful." And if it be not in his power to "do good to them that hate him," yet he ceases not to pray for them, though they continue to spurn his love, and still "despitefully use him and persecute him."
10. For he is "pure in heart." The love of God has purified his heart from all revengeful passions, from envy, malice, and wrath, from every unkind temper or malign affection. It hath cleansed him from pride and haughtiness of spirit, whereof alone cometh contention. And he hath now "put on bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering:" So that he "forbears and forgives, if he had a quarrel against any; even as God in Christ hath forgiven him." And indeed all possible ground for contention, on his part, is utterly cut off. For none can take from him what he desires; seeing he "loves not the world, nor" any of "the things of the world;" being now "crucified to the world, and the world crucified to him;" being dead to all that is in the world, both to "the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eye, and the pride of life." For "all his desire is unto God, and to the remembrance of his name."
11. Agreeable to this his one desire, is the one design of his life, namely, "not to do his own will, but the will of Him that sent him." His one intention at all times and in all things is, not to please himself, but Him whom his soul loveth. He has a single eye. And because "his eye is single, his whole body is full of light." Indeed, where the loving eye of the soul is continually fixed upon God, there can be no darkness at all, "but the whole is light; as when the bright shining of a candle doth enlighten the house." God then reigns alone. All that is in the soul is holiness to the Lord. There is not a motion in his heart, but is according to his will. Every thought that arises points to Him, and is in obedience to the law of Christ.
12. And the tree is known by its fruits. For as he loves God, so he keeps his commandments; not only some, or most of them, but all, from the least to the greatest. He is not content to "keep the whole law, and offend in one point;" but has, in all points, "a conscience void of offence towards God and towards man." Whatever God has forbidden, he avoids; whatever God hath enjoined, he doeth; and that whether it be little or great, hard or easy, joyous or grievous to the flesh. He "runs the way of God's commandments," now he hath set his heart at liberty. It is his glory so to do; it is his daily crown of rejoicing, "to do the will of God on earth, as it is done in heaven;" knowing it is the highest privilege of "the angels of God, of those that excel in strength, to fulfil his commandments, and hearken to the voice of his word."
13. All the commandments of God he accordingly keeps, and that with all his might. For his obedience is in proportion to his love, the source from whence it flows. And therefore, loving God with all his heart, he serves him with all his strength. He continually presents his soul and body a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God; entirely and without reserve devoting himself, all he has, and all he is, to his glory. All the talents he has received, he constantly employs according to his Master's will; every power and faculty of his soul, every member of his body. Once he "yielded" them "unto sin" and the devil, "as instruments of unrighteousness;" but now, "being alive from the dead, he yields" them all "as instruments of righteousness unto God."
14. By consequence, whatsoever he doeth, it is all to the glory of God. In all his employments of every kind, he not only aims at this, (which is implied in having a single eye,) but actually attains it. His business and refreshments, as well as his prayers, all serve this great end. Whether he sit in his house or walk by the way, whether he lie down or rise up, he is promoting, in all he speaks or does, the one business of his life; whether he put on his apparel, or labour, or eat and drink, or divert himself from too wasting labour, it all tends to advance the glory of God, by peace and good-will among men. His one invariable rule is this, "Whatsoever ye do, in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him." >
15. Nor do the customs of the world at all hinder his "running the race that is set before him." He knows that vice does not lose its nature, though it becomes ever so fashionable; and remembers, that "every man is to give an account of himself to God." He cannot, therefore, "follow" even "a multitude to do evil." He cannot "fare sumptuously every day," or "make provision for the flesh to fulfil the lusts thereof." He cannot "lay up treasures upon earth," any more than he can take fire into his bosom. He cannot "adorn himself," on any pretence, "with gold or costly apparel." He cannot join in or countenance any diversion which has the least tendency to vice of any kind. He cannot "speak evil" of his neighbour, any more than he can lie either for God or man. He cannot utter an unkind word of any one; for love keeps the door of his lips. He cannot speak "idle words;" "no corrupt communication" ever "comes out of his mouth," as is all that "which is" not "good to the use of edifying," not "fit to minister grace to the hearers." But "whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are" justly "of good report," he thinks, and speaks, and acts, "adorning the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ in all things."
16. Lastly. As he has time, he "does good unto all men;" unto neighbours and strangers, friends and enemies: And that in every possible kind; not only to their bodies, by "feeding the hungry, clothing the naked, visiting those that are sick or in prison;" but much more does he labour to do good to their souls, as of the ability which God giveth; to awaken those that sleep in death; to bring those who are awakened to the atoning blood, that, "being justified by faith, they may have peace with God;" and to provoke those who have peace with God to abound more in love and in good works. And he is willing to "spend and be spent herein," even "to be offered up on the sacrifice and service of their faith," so they may "all come unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ."
17. These are the principles and practices of our sect; these are the marks of a true Methodist. By these alone do those who are in derision so called, desire to be distinguished from other men. If any man say, "Why, these are only the common fundamental principles of Christianity!" thou hast said; so I mean; this is the very truth; I know they are no other; and I would to God both thou and all men knew, that I, and all who follow my judgment, do vehemently refuse to be distinguished from other men, by any but the common principles of Christianity, -- the plain, old Christianity that I teach, renouncing and detesting all other marks of distinction. And whosoever is what I preach, (let him be called what he will, for names change not the nature of things,) he is a Christian, not in name only, but in heart and in life. He is inwardly and outwardly conformed to the will of God, as revealed in the written word. He thinks, speaks, and lives, according to the method laid down in the revelation of Jesus Christ. His soul is renewed after the image of God, in righteousness and in all true holiness. And having the mind that was in Christ, he so walks as Christ also walked.
18. By these marks, by these fruits of a living faith, do we labour to distinguish ourselves from the unbelieving world from all those whose minds or lives are not according to the Gospel of Christ. But from real Christians, of whatsoever denomination they be, we earnestly desire not to be distinguished at all, not from any who sincerely follow after what they know they have not yet attained. No: "Whosoever doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven, the same is my brother, and sister, and mother." And I beseech you, brethren, by the mercies of God, that we be in no wise divided among ourselves. Is thy heart right, as my heart is with thine? I ask no farther question. If it be, give me thy hand. For opinions, or terms, let us not destroy the work of God. Dost thou love and serve God? It is enough. I give thee the right hand of fellowship. If there be any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any bowels and mercies; let us strive together for the faith of the Gospel; walking worthy of the vocation wherewith we are called; with all lowliness and meekness, with long-suffering, forbearing one another in love, endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace; remembering, there is one body, and one Spirit, even as we are called with one hope of our calling; "one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all."
From the Thomas Jackson edition of The Works of John Wesley, 1872.
First UMC's Downtown Alive service is a vibrant and energetic service that honors the aesthetic that is present in the stained glass, the architecture, and symbolism of their sanctuary. Traditional and modern music, poetry, theatre, dance, and visual art are present during this service. Downtown Alive is also the service that reaches their television congregation. You can watch the live stream or check out their video archive afterward.
Disaster response training events across the Great Plains
Early Response Teams (ERT)
Trainings have been updated on this list of Early Response Team (ERT) events scheduled to take place in the coming months. Lunch will be provided during the sessions and there will be a free will offering to help with cost.
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.
Saturday, June 6 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., at Waverly UMC, 14410 Folkestone St, Waverly, NE 68462. For more information, contact Great Plains Disaster Response Coordinator Rev. Hollie Tapley at 316-978-9761 orhtapley@greatplainsumc.org. Cost is $25, register here.
Saturday, June 27 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., at Kismet UMC, 806 Main St, Kismet, Kansas. Contact the Kismet UMC office at(620) 563-7263 (Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.) orpkumc@att.net, or contact the Rev. Keith Fink atkfink@greatplainsumc.org if you need more information. Cost is $25, register here.
Saturday, June 27 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., at Grace UMC, 1832 W 9th St, Hastings, Nebraska. For more information, contact Rev. Hollie Tapley at htapley@greatplainsumc.org. Cost is $25, register here.
Monday, June 29 from 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. (part 1) andTuesday, June 30 from 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. (part 2), at St. Mark's UMC, 8550 Pioneers Blvd., Lincoln, Nebraska. Please note participants must attend both sessions in order to receive certification. A light supper will be provided both evenings. For more information, contact Rev. Hollie Tapley athtapley@greatplainsumc.org. Cost is $25, register here.
Saturday, July 11 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Trinity UMC, 1602 N. Main St., Hutchinson, Kansas. Contact the Rev. Josh Johnson at joshua.johnson@greatplainsumc.org if you need more information. Cost is $25, register here
Early Response Team (ERT) recertification class
Friday, June 26 from 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m., at Grace UMC, 1832 W 9th St, Hastings, Nebraska. A light supper will be provided. For more information, contact Rev. Hollie Tapley athtapley@greatplainsumc.org. Cost is $10, register here.
Basic disaster training
Saturday, May 30 from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m., at Kismet UMC, 806 Main St, Kismet, Kansas. There is no cost to attend. Please contact the Kismet UMC office at (620) 563-7263(Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.) or pkumc@att.net, or contact the Rev. Keith Fink at kfink@greatplainsumc.org if you will be attending or for more information.
Peace with Justice Sunday is next Sunday
Peace with Justice Sunday was created by the 1988 General Conference and is one of the six churchwide Special Sundays of the global United Methodist Church. Traditionally it is observed the first Sunday after Pentecost which falls on May 31 this year. However, congregations are welcome to celebrate Peace with Justice Sunday on any date that works for them.
Your offering allows The United Methodist Church to have a voice in advocating for peace and justice through many programs in the United States and around the world.
Read “Praying for Peace” on the General Board of Church and Society’s website.
Praying for peace
by the Rev. Dr. Susan Henry-Crowe
Earlier this year, I received a wonderful letter from Meagan Gaddis, a 27-year-old woman from Oklahoma City. She was writing to thank the General Board of Church & Society (GBCS) for supporting Exodus House through the Peace with Justice grant program.
This drawing is a “Prayer for Peace” from Finely Berry, age 5, Milton Keynes, England. This drawing and the others accompanying this article were submitted in response to the General Board of Church & Society’s initiative, “Violence Hurts, Peace Heals.”
Exodus House, a temporary residential project for people newly released from prison, is a ministry of Oklahoma Conference of The United Methodist Church. Through the financial and emotional stability offered by Exodus House, Meagan is planning on “moving out on my own two feet.” She works part-time and is a full-time college student at the University of Central Oklahoma in Edmond.
Peace includes offering a place of hospitality, of forgiveness and reconciliation in our community; welcoming Meagan and her family into a new way of being out of incarceration is one critical way that we are building peace in this world.
As Meagan writes, “My life is just beginning to grow and I know that it was the Exodus House that provided such a fertile foundation to nurture that growth.”
May we continue to offer seeds of hope and growth in the name of the Prince of Peace.
Prayer for Peace
This past December, I travelled with Bishop Earl Bledsoe of the North Texas Conference to El Paso. Richard Hearn, a dear member of the GBCS Board of Directors, took us to Lydia Patterson Institute, where high-school students from both sides of the U.S.-Mexico border come together to learn, build bridges and worship God together.
Drawing from Bonner Springs (Kan.) United Methodist Church Sunday School class (sent by Lauren Grant, Kids Ministry director)
At a morning chapel service, I asked the students to write on a piece of paper their prayer for peace. After collecting over a hundred of these precious papers in a small plastic bag, I carried them back with me to Washington, D.C. The following are an offering from the students at Lydia Patterson of some of those prayers:
- “I pray for Peace and Justice in my country and in the world.”
- “I hope Peace becomes a reality for all the people who are suffering of hunger and poverty.”
- “Find the cure for Ebola. Stop bullying. Love each other.”
- “God’s hand is hope for the world. God’s word is peace for our community.”
- “I pray for a better world. I pray that everyone opens their eyes and sees evil taking over, and to have the courage and desire to change themselves and then the world.”
- “Justice for me is to have a better government. And Peace for me is that everybody can be free, and live without war and poverty, and see that everybody has God in their heart, and can be happy.”
- “Pido con toda mi alma que no haya violencia; bullying, nada de eso, mejor es el amor y cariño. P.S. ¿es tan difícil?” [“I ask with all my heart (or soul) that there will be no violence and bullying. Love and affection is better. P.S. Is that difficult?”]
- “Peace in the mind of those who can’t forgive themselves and others.”
Give to Peace with Justice
May 31 is Peace with Justice Sunday in The United Methodist Church, one of the denomination’s Special Sundays. Because of the Peace with Justice Sunday offering, the people of The United Methodist Church are able to make a difference together by sowing seeds of peace.
Drawing from Bonner Springs (Kan.) United Methodist Church Sunday School class (sent by Lauren Grant, Kids Ministry director)
Annual conferences keep half of the Special Sunday offering to fund local peace with justice programs. The other half comes to GBCS to help fund U.S. and global work in social action, public-policy education and advocacy. Each year, GBCS awards grants to peace with justice ministries around the world, such as Exodus House that I mentioned earlier.
The Peace with Justice Special Sunday witnesses to God’s demand for a faithful, just, disarmed and secure world. I encourage you to observe this very special Sunday. Your gifts are making a world of difference in the lives of so many persons like Megan Gaddis. Editor's note: The Rev. Dr. Susan Henry-Crowe is the chief executive of the General Board of Church & Society. The pictures accompany this article are the first submitted as prayers for peace from children in response to GBCS’s initiative “Violence Hurts, Peace Heals.”
Learn more about Peace with Justice Sunday. Traditionally, congregations observe Peace with Justice Sunday on the first Sunday after Pentecost, but it may be celebrated on an alternate date if a programming conflict exists.
Posted In: Children's Concerns, Peace with JusticeJFON-NE helps Annika gain a new life without violence
Justice For Our Neighbors-Nebraska (JFON-NE) tirelessly works to help low-income immigrants gain legal status. Its attorneys and legal staff prioritize representation of immigrants with the greatest need: battered women, abandoned children and refugees fleeing persecution.
Last year JFON-NE met Annika, a young woman who immigrated to the U.S. in 2011 from Namibia as a conditional resident, a result of her arranged marriage to a U.S. citizen. Before arriving in the U.S., she had only met her husband on three separate occasions, one of which was their wedding. Almost immediately after arriving in the U.S., her husband began to subject Annika to severe physical and sexual abuse. Additionally, she was forced to work at a business owned by her husband’s family without compensation.
When she tried to report the abuse, she was physically assaulted by her husband's family. They threatened Annika and warned her against telling anyone what was happening to her — her authorization to work in the U.S. had expired and they told her that she would never be able to work anywhere else.
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Annika Gains a New Life Without Violence
Abuse Came With the Arranged Marriage
Last year JFON-NE met Annika, a young woman who immigrated to the U.S. in 2011 from Namibia as a conditional resident, a result of her arranged marriage to a U.S. citizen. Before arriving in the U.S., she had only met her husband on three separate occasions, one of which was their wedding. Almost immediately after arriving in the U.S., her husband began to subject Annika to severe physical and sexual abuse. Additionally, she was forced to work at a business owned by her husband’s family without compensation. Annika Thought Suicide Was the Only Way Out When she tried to report the abuse, she was physically assaulted by her husband's family. They threatened Annika and warned her against telling anyone what was happening to her -- her authorization to work in the U.S. had expired and they told her that she would never be able to work anywhere else. The rapes and physical abuse escalated (e.g., her husband would use a weapon during the rapes). Eventually, this young woman began to contemplate suicide because she felt “being dead” was her only escape from the abuse. She Found Help to Escape Then Annika learned about a domestic violence shelter in a nearby town and called them. With a Domestic Violence Advocate’s help, she made a safety plan and escaped. They helped her report the abuse to law enforcement and now her husband is currently facing felony charges. Immigration Legal Services is Changing Her Life Still in the shelter, Annika contacted JFON-NE to ask for help with her immigration case, as her conditional residency had expired and she did not have work authorization. As such, she could not support herself or leave the DV shelter. She came to JFON-NE without knowing the background of her immigration case or having any immigration documentation – her husband and his family had controlled every aspect of her immigration case. Because of the abuse, our attorney quickly applied to waive the requirement that her husband submit a petition to have the conditions of her residency removed. We helped Annika obtain temporary work authorization while the waiver application was pending. Within days of obtaining her work authorization, Annika had secured a job and is currently working toward self-sufficiency. It is her goal to be able to leave the DV shelter as soon as possible to provide the opportunity for someone else to escape an abusive and dangerous situation like she did. We will continue to work on her case and expect that she will obtain legal permanent residency within six-months. JFON-NE May 2015, www.jfon-ne.org |
JFON-NE is one of the Great Plains Conference Mission Agencies. To learn more about JFON-NE or give financial support, go to www.jfon-ne.org.
Photo: JFON-NE staff thank all who supported their work at a recent fundraiser.
Seeing “The Second Cooler” gives you a different perspective
UMW and the Mercy and Justice Team host a screening
Editor’s Note: submitted by Reba Mcquinn, member of UMW at Church of the Resurrection, (COR) Leawood, Kansas.
The topic of illegal immigration is a complicated, multi-faceted issue. United Methodist Women have an opportunity to study, learn and take action on this subject. We can step out and speak up about the struggle for migrant justice.
Ellin Jimmerson, Ph.D. is a minister to the community at Weatherly Heights Baptist Church in Huntsville, Alabama. She is a prominent advocate for illegal immigrants, guest workers and domestic laborers. Her passion for these immigrants has resulted in her production of a migrant justice documentary called “The Second Cooler.” Dr. Jimmerson presented a screening and discussion of her documentary to about 50 people at United Methodist Church of the Resurrection on May 9, 2015. Her appearance was sponsored by the Mercy and Justice Team of the Great Plains United Methodist Conference and United Methodist Women of the Church of the Resurrection as well as Justice For Our Neighbors-Nebraska, Kansas Appleseed and Nebraska Appleseed.
The focus of this film is to bring attention to some of the underlying issues that have dramatically impacted immigration from Latin America. Have you ever considered who really benefits from illegal immigration? The signing of the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) in 1992 and implemented in 1994 displaced thousands of families from their property in Mexico forcing them to look north to the United States for employment to provide for their families. Then the border was tightened, militarized and safe urban passageways were closed which forced the migrants to travel across the Sonora Desert. Shockingly 5,000 migrants have died trying to cross the desert, the Pacific Ocean and the Rio Grande River. That is more than the number of people killed on September 11 and through the Katrina hurricane combined.
The migrants that do make it to the United States and find a job are often paid far less than US workers and forced to return part of their pay or just never paid the promised amount. Many US employers prefer to hire illegal immigrants because they will work for less money and can be taken advantage of. The workers have no recourse because if they resist, they lose their job and are blacklisted from further employment.
The United Methodist 2008 Book of Discipline states, “We recognize, embrace, and affirm all persons, regardless of country of origin, as members of the family of God. We affirm the right of all persons to equal opportunities for employment, access to housing, health care, education, and freedom from social discrimination. We urge the Church and society to recognize the gifts, contributions, and struggles of those who are immigrants and to advocate for justice for all."
With 12 million migrants in the US illegally, thousands dying trying to enter the US, unjust and unfair treatment of migrants by employers, there has to be a better way. A humane and fair solution to immigration must be found. If you get the chance to see “The Second Cooler,” you will come away with a different perspective. The documentary will beavailable for sale in the near future.
Photo: Screening of “The Second Cooler” at COR
Newsletters
General Board of Church and Society: Faith in Action
Global Ministries: connectNmission
Lewis Center for Church Leadership: Leading Ideas
Ministry Matters: May 26, 2015
United Methodist Church Development Center: Spiritual Giving
Classifieds
View these and other classifieds at greatplainsumc.org/classifieds.
Press Clips
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. You can see education partnership ideas at greatplainsumc.org/education.
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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