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Water For Life: Mobilize the Mission TOGETHER, WE CAN SPREAD THE GOOD NEWSJim Kinder, NewSong PastorThis year our emphasis is to Mobilize the Mission by placing one dollar per day for 40 days of Lent into the green trucks that were distributed in February. Our goal is $20,000 with which we will provide an appropriate vehicle for missionary/church planter, Jean Claude (thrid person on the left, in the front row of picture) and his wife, Frances Masuka.

In a recent letter we received from him, we have the following excerpts. As you read them, please keep in mind that Jean-Claude’s native tongue is French and English is his second language.

When asked what his primary work as a Missionary is, he replied: “To plant churches applying biblical principles and objectives. The first importance is evangelism which, we trust, produces new converts. These converts must be trained in the use of their spiritual gifts so that they become useful servants in the Body of Christ.”

What areas of Cote d’Ivoire do you serve? “My area of operation is in the rural areas. One of the things that

I have learned from working in a small community is that the likelihood of a church or ministry reaching a large percentage of the community is much greater in a small town. It’s often possible for a church or ministry to reach 10%, 20%, and in

some situations, 50% or 60% of their community. In fact, the smaller the community, the more likely an effective ministry can reach its population.”

What is done to meet the physical needs of rural residents? “In the effort of planting churches,

we are also supplying to communities with clean water, and assisting poor women and young girls in villages to fight poverty.”

Jean-Claude concludes his letter with, “Thank you for all support and prayers.”

Won’t you join us in supporting Mobilize the Mission with your daily prayers and financial support? Together, we can spread the Good News locally and globally.

Christ United Methodist Church | christumcmobile.com | 251.342.0462

March 2016

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Together, We Can Spread.......................coverNotes from Pastors Jeff & Jim...................... 2Easter Week.................................................3 A New Chapter: Prayer Services ...................4 Adult Opportunities.......................................5Youth Ministry...............................................6Children’s Ministry........................................7 Recreation Ministry.......................................8Various Ministries.....................................9-10 New Members.............................................11Various Ministries..................................12-14March Calendar..........................................15Family Easter Experience...........................16

MARCH 2016

For me, the Lenten Season leading up to Easter is an opportunity to focus on what’s really important in life. Here are a few of those things that are fundamentally important to me:

n My relationship with Jesus! Loving Him, Serving Him—Pleasing Him, Living for Him.

n Encouraging and loving my family! Helping them to stay spiritually focused. Praying together, worshiping together, doing fun things together.

n Being connected to my church family! Praying for each other. Making worship a priority every week. Supporting the ministries of C.U.M.C. financially.

n Sharing the love and joy of Christ with others in small and meaningful ways! Do something to encourage someone who really needs it.

As we move toward Easter, let’s all reaffirm these important priorities. In Christ,

“‘You must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, all your strength, and all your mind.’ And, ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’” Luke 10:27

Worship Services

Can’t make it to church? Watch services online at christumcmobile.com/media

Easter Sunday is a time when our campus is blessed to have many visitors.

We are in need of

Greeters for Easter Sunday

to help us welcome visitors and members alike!

If you are able to help Easter Sunday, March 27,

please email Genie Schneider at genie.christumc@gmail.com.

In the past few weeks, I have had a number of old friends reach out to me on Facebook. The conversation typically begins with “Where are you and what are you doing?” It quickly moves to

catching up on the family. And then to mutual friends. It typically concludes with, “We have to do a better job staying in touch.” Whether we will or not is yet to be seen. Being Facebook found reminds me…

Past friendships matter. The impact we made on each other’s lives was meaningful, so much so, that we sought each other out. If for nothing else, a simple reconnect.To tell my story, I realize that my story is really his story. As I recount the years, it is obvious how God has graciously lead me through both good and bad times. When I am sharing my story, really I am sharing His story.

To be grateful for the new relationships in my life. God is continually doing a new thing in our lives. The connections that I make today will impact my tomorrow.

Facebook FoundJim Kinder, NewSong Pastor

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AT CHRIST UNITED METHODIST CHURCHSunday, March 20 - Sunday, March 27

n SUNRISE WORSHIP | 7:00 a.m. | Sanctuary

n TRADITIONAL WORSHIP | Sanctuary 8:00 a.m., 9:15 a.m., & 10:40 a.m.*

n NEWSONG CONTEMPORARY WORSHIP Christ Center* | 9:15 a.m. & 10:40 a.m.

n YOUTH WORSHIP | For 6th - 12th Grade 9:16 a.m. | Christ Center

n PRESCHOOL - K5 WORSHIP | 9:15 a.m. & 10:40 a.m. | Fellowship Hall

n 1ST - 5TH GRADE WORSHIP | 9:15 a.m. & 10:40 a.m. | Christ Center Assembly Area

n EVENING WORSHIP | 5:00 p.m. | Christ Center *

Child care available *

For more information on Easter Week, visit christumcmobile.com/holyweek.Christ United Methodist Church | 6101 Grelot Road, Mobile, AL 36609 | 251.342.0462 | christumcmobile.com

EASTER SUNDAY, MARCH 27

n FAMILY EASTER EXPERIENCESATURDAY, MARCH 19 | 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. | All are invited to a wonderful day filled with fun as we celebrate and experience the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Entertainment and food for all: Inflatables, train rides, petting zoo, egg hunt for kids, Hunger Games-style egg hunt for youth, puppet drama team performances, cotton candy, snow cones, games, hot dogs and popcorn.

n PALM SUNDAY SERVICES SUNDAY, MARCH 20 | Join us at one of our regular worship times of 8:00 a.m., 9:15 a.m., 10:40 a.m. & 5:00 p.m.

n SEDER PASSOVER MEALTHURSDAY, MARCH 24 | 5:30 p.m. Christ Center Gym | Join us as we celebrate the Passover meal Jesus and His disciples celebrated before the crucifixion and resurrection. Preregister at christumcmobile.com/seder. Cost: $10 adults/$5 children (5 years and up). Child care available for children under five.

n MAUNDY THURSDAY COMMUNION SERVICE | THURSDAY, MARCH 24 7:00 p.m. | Sanctuary | Come experience communion at tables of twelve, representing Jesus and the disciples at the last supper.

GOOD FRIDAY CONCERT: GOD SO LOVED THE WORLDFRIDAY, MARCH 25 | 7:00 P.M. | SANCTUARY

Join us for a God So Loved the World concert that is a combination of music and dramatic monologues that will draw you into the experiences leading up to the crucifixion of Jesus.

Bring the whole family and celebrate Easter with Christ! There is always something for everyone at Christ UMC.

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For My house shall be called a house of prayer for all peoples.

Isaiah 56:7b (ESV)

CALL TO PRAYER – 2 CHRONICLES 7:14 Lord, as we humble ourselves and prepare for the future, help us to be focused on Your will. We are the church built on the Chief corner stone—Jesus. Matthew 16:16,18; 1 Peter 2:4,7

HEART AFTER GOD – ACTS 1:24-25AGracious Lord, we ask You to give the Bishop, Cabinet, and our church Your heart as the process of appointments begins. 1 Samuel 16:7

REJOICING – 1 THESSALONIANS 5:18Heavenly Father, we celebrate our past and anticipate this new chapter in our church.

CLEANSING – PSALM 24:3-4Almighty God, we desire to be right with You. Therefore, we confess our sins against You. We want clean hands and a pure heart.

HOLY SPIRIT – ACTS 1:8Holy Spirit, we need You to empower us for Kingdom living and for sharing our faith. Galatians 5:22-25 & Luke 24:48-49.

UNITY AND WISDOM – ACTS 1:14Holy Father, we surrender to Your wisdom which will produce unity in the Body of Christ.

This year will be a year of transition for the Christ United Methodist Church family. Just as Pastor Jeff and 13 missioner families studied and prayed for God’s will when they planted Christ UMC more than 35 years ago, we want to pray diligently for the changes and new opportunities Christ UMC will have.

Each month our prayers will have an emphasis. We encourage you to be involved in at least one of the following ways, in addition to your daily personal prayer time:

With your prayer partner, with your small group, and with the Corporate Prayer Gathering once per month.

Please make plans to join us on the following dates:

Church-wide Prayer Servicer

n Sunday, March 20 | 5:00 p.m. | Christ Center

n Sunday, April 24 | 5:00 p.m. | Christ Center

n Sunday, May 22 | 5:00 p.m. | Christ Center

Prayer is a powerful gift from God. Join us as we continue to move forward

for the kingdom.

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WEDNESDAY STUDIESn A STUDY FOR SINGLES: The Best Question Ever by Andy Stanley | Six week study begins Wednesday, March 9 | 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. | Christ Center Assembly Area | Led by Brian Johnson | There is power in a question. Jesus used them all the time to make a point or share a story. How can you make the most of the questions you are asked? How can they give you a window of opportunity to share your values and faith with those around you?

n The Intercessory Life; A Missional Model for Discipleship by Maxie Dunnam Wednesdays beginning March 23 | 6:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. | Hospitality Room | Led by John Sellers | This study teaches practical ways to bring the world into the prayer closet and to unleash the power of prayer in our everyday world. Book will be available to purchase during the Prayer Conference on March 13 and afterwards at the church for a discounted cost of $12. To register or for more information, contact Sonya Carson at sonya@christumcmobile.com or 251.706.3365. Child care available.

BIBLE STUDIES FOR LADIES n Embraced by God by Babbie Mason | Mondays, beginning March 7 | 6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Room A-206 | Join leaders Lin Wilson and Carol Jackson for this study, authored by our 2016 Women’s Conference speaker, Babbie Mason. Every woman longs to know that she is loved, accepted, and valued. Yet many women struggle to understand and accept just how much God really loves them. Drawing upon her own personal journey to understand how very much God loves her, not as a singer or teacher, but as His beloved daughter, contemporary gospel singer Babbie Mason equips women to accept God’s unfailing love. Cost of study guide is $10. Contact Sonya Carson at sonya@christumcmobile.com or 251.706.3365 to register for class and order your book.

n LADIES BIBLE STUDY: Horizontal Jesus by Tony Evans | Begins Tuesday, March 15 | 9:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. | Room A-204 | Led by Brenda Ragland and Sue Allison Loving God is vertical love. Loving others is horizontal love. Jesus showed His disciples how these two loves are intertwined in practical ways. While our relationship with God is based on faith alone, He warns and encourages us to see that the way we treat people affects our experience of Him. In this six-session study, you’ll learn how to apply biblical principles drawn from several one-another passages in Scripture. In doing so, you’ll reap blessings in your vertical relationship with God. To register and reserve your book or child care, contact Sonya Carson at sonya@christumcmobile.com or 251.706.3365.

BIBLE STUDIES FOR MENJoin a Men United study group: There are three options to fit your schedule:

n Saturdays | 7:30 a.m. | Room C-221

n Thursdays | 12:00 p.m. | Room C 221

n Monthly on Wednesdays | 6:00 p.m. | Room A 204 | Begins March 2

Adult Bible Study

Opportunities

SUNDAY MORNING STUDIES FOR ADULTSn 8:00 a.m. | Mens Bible Study: 1 Timothy Room A-201 | Join us for Bible study, bagels, coffee and fellowship. No registration necessary.

n 8:00 a.m. | Big Church by Andy StanleyRoom A-206 | Two thousand years ago, a gathering of people in a Middle-Eastern city began a movement. Encircling the globe and leaving its mark on individuals and cultures on every continent, this movement would eventually become known as the church. The church movement is still moving today. A study of Acts. A class for women only.

n 9:15 a.m. | The Intercessory Life by Maxie Dunnam | Room C-201 | This study teaches practical ways to bring the world into the prayer closet and to unleash the power of prayer in our everyday world. A class for single adults.

n 9:15 a.m. | The Gift of Faith: Methodist Quarterly Curriculum | Room A-209 Oswald Chambers described faith as “deliberate confidence in the character of God whose ways you may not understand at the time.” Corrie ten Boom described it as “the radar that sees through the fog – the reality of things at a distance that the human eye cannot see.” In this study you will learn about tests of faith, restorative faith and the fullness of faith. A class for 50+ adults.

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MARCH ACTIVITIES n 4 – 6 | HIGH SCHOOL NASHVILLE TRIP | For 9th – 12th Grade Nashville, TN | Get ready for an awesome weekend! We are going to take a trip to Music City. We will hang out downtown and grub out on some famous BBQ. This is a perfect trip for new students and friends of current students to attend! Early registration required at christumcyouth.com/nashville. Cost $115

n 4 – 5 | CONFIRMATION RETREAT | Gulf Shores UMC | Leave Christ UMC Friday at 4:30 p.m. and return Saturday by 12:00 p.m. | Students should eat an early dinner prior to arriving. Heavy snacks will be provided later in the evening.

n 6 | CONFIRMATION CELEBRATION | 4:00 p.m. | Rehearsal begins at 3:00 p.m. | Students should wear dress clothes for this service. Please remember that only students that have completed the attendance requirements will be confirmed.

n 11 | MIDDLE SCHOOL FUN NIGHT: BLACK LIGHT AND NEON COSTUME CONTEST | For 6th – 8th Grade | 7:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. | Christ Center Gym | How do you make sports more fun? Turn off the lights! We will play basketball, volleyball, frisbee, spikeball and 9 Square in the Air with black lights and neon outfits! Cost : $5. Register at christumcyouth.com/blacklight.

Christ UMC Youth Ministry

YOUTH MINISTRY STAFFTyler Vittetoe, High School Minister tyvittetoe@gmail.comMike Rollins, Middle School Minister mrollins83@gmail.comBeth Lodwick, Admin. Assistant beth@christumcmobile.com

STAY CONNECTED WITH USCheck in with us at Want to get text updates? Middle School text @CUMC to 475.282.2857High School text @HSGR to 475.282.2857Visit christumcyouth.com for all our events. Check out our new High School Blog at christumcyouth.com/hsblog

By MIke Rollins, Middle School Minister One of the really exciting things going on in our student ministry that not many people know about is our garden. This past Fall in one of our Wednesday night options, our student ministry started a garden on our church property. Led by Alissa Hadden and some of our other college students; this isn’t your ordinary flower garden. These students are growing food like kale, herbs and cranberry hibiscus. There are plans to plant a lemon tree, tomatoes, onions, zucchini, and sweet potatoes in the coming spring and summer. The students in the option have built the raised beds, put the soil and other nutrients in, pulled weeds, watered and harvested the garden when it is needed. They are also learning how to take the crops that are grown and make it into food. Just last month, they took kale, dried it out, ground it up into powder, and made pasta out of it, and we eat it one Wednesday night! When asked about the garden, Alissa says, “The physical world, in all of its beauty and mystery, is how God speaks to us and how He sustains us. I believe that it is so important for middle and high school students to experience this first-hand, which is why the garden is so important. The garden shows us the goodness that exists in caring for all of His creation and how deeply He cares for us.”

WEEKLY PROGRAM|christumcyouth.com n SUNDAY MORNINGS: 9:16 Worship | Youth Area | 9:16 a.m. – 10:15 a.m.An engaging worship service for Middle School and High School students.Bible Study | C-204 | 10:40 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

n SUNDAY NIGHTS: 5:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. Dinner: 5:00 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. Cost: $3Middle School Small Groups | Youth Area | Students will learn and share life with a caring adult and peers their own age and gender. High School Sunday Night Service | Christ Center Assembly Area | Worship service with a small group session.

n WEDNESDAYS: 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. | For details on the sessions below, visit christumcyouth.com/wednesdays.

MIDDLE SCHOOL GROUP OPTIONSMedia & Tech | Art | Devotion Group Food and Garden

HIGH SCHOOL GROUP OPTIONSMedia & Tech | Fine Arts | Food & Garden | Devotion Group | In-Depth Bible Study

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WEEKLY PROGRAMS Visit christumcchildren.com for more details.

n SUNDAY MORNINGS | All Sunday School classes are located in Building E. 8:00 a.m.: 3K – 4K | E – 146 K5 – 5th | E – 248 9:15 a.m.: WorshipK3 – K4 | Fellowship Hall K5 – 2nd | E – 250 3rd – 5th | CC Assembly Area10:40 a.m.: Sunday School K3 | E – 148 K4 | E – 146 K5 | E – 144 1st – 5th | Building E – Upstairs

n SUNDAY EVENINGS: PUPPET PRACTICE | 4:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. | Fellowship Hall | For information, contact Ashley Walker at ashley@christumcmobile.com.

n WEDNESDAYSDinner: 5:15 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. | Fellowship Hall Worship: 6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. Preschoolers Worship | Bldg. E, Rm – 149 K5 – 5th Grade Worship | Bldg. E.

By Ashley Walker, Director of Children’s MinistryEaster is a wonderful time to celebrate with your children. It is a time when we can be reminded of the hope that we have in the life and resurrection of Jesus. While egg hunts and chocolate bunnies are fun traditions, we as parents have an opportunity to focus on what is truly important—God’s love for us.

A perfect example of this love is seen in John 3:16: For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believes in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

God sent His son out of love for us, His people, to die on the cross for our sins so that we could have eternal life. Easter is the day that we get to celebrate the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus. From the empty tomb that was found on that special day, hope is rising.

Something fun to try this year is to add a little twist to your Easter egg hunts. Make several strips of paper, each telling a small part of the Easter story. Place one of the pieces of paper inside one of the eggs or wrap them around the outsides. Once the eggs are found, help your children unscramble the strips so that they can tell the resurrection story!

Ashley Walker Director of Children’s Ministry Email: ashley@christumcmobile.com

Christie Ford Kidz Crossing Director Email: christie@christumcmobile.com

MARCHn 16 | PRESCHOOL FUN DAY: EASTER EGG DECORATING 3 & 4 years old | 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. | Fellowship HallJoin us as we have fun decorating Easter eggs and learn about Jesus. Register by FRIDAY, MARCH 12. Register at christumcchildren.com/register.n 19 | ANNUAL FAMILY EASTER EXPERIENCE | 10:00 a.m.– 1:00 p.m. | He is Risen! Join us for a wonderful day filled with fun as we celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ. There will be inflatables, performances by the Christ UMC Puppet Ministry, an Easter Egg Hunt, train rides, petting zoo and family worship!

n 24 | Seder Meal | 5:30 p.m. | Christ Center Gym | Join us as we celebrate the Passover Meal Jesus and His disciples celebrated before the crucifixion and resurrection. This is an incredible way to help the next generation experience and claim the story of the Exodus as their own. Cost: Adults $10; Children 5 and up $5. Child care available for children under 5.

CUMChildren

CUMCKidz

christumcchildren.com

CHILDREN’S MINISTRY STAFF

Sam Gochey, Associate Children’s Minister Email: sam@christumcmobile.com

For God so loved the world...

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By Rick Warren - For more information, visit danielplan.com How can your plan for healthiness succeed? You need two things: prayer and diligence. Prayer and diligence are like two sides of the same coin. You pray as if it all depends on God, and you work as if it all depends on you. Putting your whole effort into something feels so different when you have prayed about it and God is empowering you in it. Committing to the Lord whatever you do means saying, “God, I’m committing to you another day, one day at a time. I want to be healthier at the end of the day than I was when I got up this morning. Please give me the strength to do my part in that.” That’s the pray part. Proverbs 13:4 says, “The desires of the diligent are fully satisfied.” In other words, you’ve got to work. It takes effort. You eat right; you exercise. You plan your meals and your day. You get enough sleep. That’s the diligence part. Food for Thought: Transformation is super-powered when you are diligent, devoted and dependent.

RECREATION INFORMATIONRecreation includes an indoor walking track, fitness room, and basketball courts, as well as regular fitness classes. All participants should complete a registration card in order to participate in any area of the Recreation Ministry. Children under 18 must have a parent/guardian signature on their registration card, and children under 14 must have a parent/guardian present.

FITNESS CLASSES: 1st class is FREE then $5 per class or purchase a six-class card for $25.

n Yoga Classes: Mondays and Thursdays at 6:00 p.m., Tuesdays and Thursdays at 9:00 a.m.

n Fitness Room: Requires a one-time fitness room orientation, held Monday - Friday at 6:30 p.m.

n Basketball Gym: Reserved for Christ UMC members and visitors who regularly attend services and up to three of their guests.

CSPORTS REGISTRATION

n REGISTER FOR SPRING YOUNG RUNNERS CLUB | For K5 – 9th grade | Parent Conference is March 21. K5 – 2nd grade will train to run one mile; 3rd – 9th grade will train to run a 5K. All runners will participate in two official road races in Mobile. Practices begin the week of March 28. K5 – 2nd grade practice once a week, 3rd – 5th grades & 6th – 9th grades practice twice a week. The season is 8 – 10 weeks. Registration fee is $40 until March 21.

n COED FLAG FOOTBALL | Registration begins MONDAY, MARCH 14 | For completed K5 – 6th grade for the 2015 – 2016 school year. Required evaluations are May 9 & 10. Practices begin in May, season ends in July. Weekday practices and weekday games. Fee is $80.

MARCH DATES n 5 – T-Ball/Baseball/Softball Pictures

n 18-19 – Volley 4 Christ Clinic

n 21 – Young Runners Club Parent Conference

n 24 – GYM Closed (Seder Meal/Maundy Thursday)

n 25-26 – Christ UMC Closed

n 27 – Easter Sunday

n 29 – Young Runners Club practices begin

CHRIST CENTER HOURS Monday - Friday: 6:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m. Saturday: 8:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. For additional information, call 251.706.3326 or visit: christumcsports.com.Visit /cumc.recreationministry to stay up-to-date with the Recreation Ministry.

AN INCREDIBLE PARTNERSHIP

“COMMIT to the LORD whatever YOU DO,

and HE will establish your PLANS.” Proverbs 16:3

SPECIAL EVENT: CUMC NIGHT AT THE JAGS TICKETS | SAT., APR. 96:30 p.m. | Join us for the Jags vs. Arkansas State baseball game. Tickets are $3 each and can be purchased at the Recreation Desk Monday - Saturday. Christ UMC’s Living Sound will sing the National Anthem and CSports teams will be introduced on the field.

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GOALS FOR FORWARD AND 7YPRob Blackwell, Church AdministratorPart of the concept of FORWARD is that it combines our operating and building giving in one income stream, so that our leadership can more effectively manage the finances of the church. There are several changes in the thermometer chart to reflect that concept. It now displays total FORWARD giving year-to-date, compared to our goal for the year. At the same time, it breaks out principal payments as part of the whole so you can continue to keep track of how we’re doing against the 7 Year Plan goals. Please note that the red portion denotes FORWARD giving while the cross-hatched portion shows how much of that has gone to pay principal on our loan. The goals for the year for both are also marked. Remember, our progress on principal payments is related to how well FORWARD income is doing, so the chart now illustrates the relationship between the two. Also, now that we’re in the 4th year of the 7 Year Plan, current progress can get lost in the big numbers, so the chart now focuses on current year data rather than multi-year 7YP-to-date. The cumulative data is always available upon request. Finally, the chart has now shifted to reporting the most recently completed month, rather than estimating the current month’s income before the month ends. Since newsletter articles are due well before the publication date, this means that, for example, March’s newsletter shows January’s numbers instead of February’s. However, you can still see the more current numbers in the weekly Sunday bulletin, and the newsletter totals will now match and provide an opportunity for commentary. As always, if you have any questions please contact Patricia Parker at patricia@christumcmobile.com or me at rob@christumcmobile.com at the church office.

$43,000Prinicipal

$1,000,000

$3,000,000

$4,000,000

2016

FO

RWA

RD P

ROG

RESS

$2,000,000

Sunday, March 13 8:00 a.m. | Sanctuary

Combined 9:15 a.m. Services | Sanctuary Combined 10:40 a.m. Services | Christ Center

5:00 p.m. | Christ Center

Our guest speaker is Maxie Dunnam, author of Living Prayer and his newest book, The Intercessory Life. This one-day conference will encourage us to begin, continue, and strengthen our Life of Prayer.

These I will bring to My holy mountain, and make them joyful in My house of prayer; their burnt offerings and their sacrifices will be

accepted on My altar; for My house shall be called a house of prayer for all peoples. Isaiah 56:7

$457,000thru January

$750,000Principal PmtGOAL

FORWARDGOAL

FORWARD Receipts

PrincipalPayments

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THE HALLELUJAH CHORUSWould you like to join the Sanctuary Choir in singing the Hallelujah Chorus on Easter Sunday? For more information, please contact Ralph Gudeman at 251.510.1099 or 251.342.0462 ext.221 or email Ralph@christumcmobile.com.

CHORAL SCHOLARS PROGRAM New opportunity for local college students to be eligible to receive scholarship funds by singing in our Sanctuary choir. Contact Ralph Gudeman at Ralph@christumcmobile.com. Donations also needed for the fund. Make donations to CUMC Choral Scholars.

Get started in the right direction with Starting Point. Learn about the Christian faith, the mission of our church and membership.

You will also learn how to get connected into the life of Christ UMC!

SUNDAY, MARCH 6 9:00 A.M. - 10:30 A.M.HOSPITALITY ROOM

REGISTER AT: christumcmobile.com/startingpoint

ARE YOU NEW TO CHRIST UMC?

UMW BAKE SALEWould you like to extend a helping hand to the mission agencies supported by Christ United Methodist Women? One easy, as well as delicious, way to help others is through the purchase of a scrumptious baked item at the annual UMW Bake Sale set for Sunday, March 20, in the Sanctuary Courtyard and the

Christ Center Recreation Area. There will be cakes, pies, sweet breads, brownies and cookies galore for you to choose from! Help extend the impact of God’s blessings to those who need it most! For more information contact Joyce Genz at jgenz@comcast.net or 251.259.1675.

THE CIRCLES OF UNITED METHODIST WOMEN AT CHRIST UMC:

UnitedMethodistWomenFAITH • HOPE • LOVE IN ACTION

CROSSROADS CIRCLE4th Tuesday | 5:30 p.m. | Parlor Joyce Sasser, Chair251.633.7380 | wom678@aol.com

ESTHER CIRCLE2nd Tuesday | 9:45 a.m. | Parlor Ella Dean Ellisor, Chair 251.342.1222 | edellisor@bellsouth.net

LYDIA CIRCLE2nd Friday | 10:00 a.m. | Parlor Sally Pehler, Co-Chair 251.300.8685 | s.pehler@comcast.net

MARY & MARTHA MAIL CIRCLE1st of month @ www.mailcircle.net Vera Moore, Coordinator 251.581.4750 | vmoore4474@gmail.com

Friday, March 187:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m. | Fellowship Hall

Enjoy music provided by a DJNo tickets needed - Donations appreciated.

Invite a friend and bring a dish and soda to share.

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Alison, Samantha & Catherine CashJoined Sunday, January 31, 2016

Pam and Ed CalamettiJoined Sunday, January 31, 2016

David IvyJoined Sunday, January 31, 2016

Jeff SurginerJoined Sunday, January 31, 2016

Beverley Ryan, Katie Eubanks, Joshua Eubanks (not shown)

Joined Sunday, January 31, 2016

Carole JordanJoined Sunday, January 31, 2016

Cynthia Turner Joined Sunday, February 14, 2016

Donna DeVoreJoined Sunday, February 7, 2016

Jennifer and Rod SellersJoined Sunday, February 7, 2016

Lynda BurtonJoined Sunday, February 7, 2016

Mitchell AdcockJoined Sunday, February 7, 2016

Andrea Nichols Joined Sunday, February 21, 2016

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TUESDAYS6:30 p.m. - Supper/meeting

LOCATIONHome of Jim & Amy Mitchell

6724 Candlelight Court speakisay@aol.com or

251.767.1325

GAP is a group of men and women between the ages of 23 and 35 who

have never been married. They meet every Tuesday at the home of Jim and Amy Mitchell. For more information and directions contact Jim & Amy at speakisay@aol.com

or 251.767.1325.

MONDAY, MARCH 146:30 P.M. - 7:30 P.M. | PARLOR

Christ UMC Christian Cancer Support meets every 2nd Monday of the month.Please join us for cancer education, faithful testimony, information/referral, and prayer.

Contact Teresa Atkins at tratkins1@mchsi.com or 251.653.0364 for more information. For child care, contact Kim Pratt at kim@christumcmobile.com or 251.706.3331.

Sundays Christ Center Assembly Area

6:30 p.m.- 8:30 p.m.

Volunteers provide us with an incredible home cooked meal each week.

This year, we are taking Water for Life to the streets. In this season of Lent, please support the work in Cote d’Ivoire through our prayers and our gifts. Our goal is to purchase a vehicle for the United Methodist Conference in Cote d’Ivoire for Jean

Claude and Francine to use as they travel throughout Cote d’Ivoire sharing the Gospel of Christ.

Here is how you can participate:

n Pick up a truck bank and the 40 Days of Prayer Calendar and take it home.

n Follow our 40 Days of Prayer Calendar. (Download at christumcmobile.com/waterforlife)

n Each day as you pray, put $1 in the truck bank.

Return the truck bank filled with your donation on EASTER SUNDAY, MARCH 27

For more information, visit christumcmobile.com/waterforlife

PARTICIPATE IN OUR WATER FOR LIFE: MOBILIZE THE MISSION 40 DAY CHALLENGE

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Melissa Cannedy and family in the death of her father, Henry FountainGerald Grovenstein and family in the death of his uncle, B.H. GrovensteinZach Robinson and family in the death of his aunt, Marilyn BroughmmerBonnie Bebee and family in the death of her mother, Adeline RamckeKevin Assmann and family in the death of his brother, Morgan AssmannPaul Taylor and family in the death of his father, William TaylorTrish Patton and family in the death of her husband, William Patton

Chris Patton and family in the death of his father, William PattonJim Hinton and family in the death of his brother, Bobby HintonThe family of Jobie WebbPatti Cumbest and family in the death of her mother, Mary Ann ByrdJohnny Peters & Rachel Barker and families in the death of their grandmother, Mary Ann Byrd

For more information, contact Donna Alexander at donna@christumcmobile.com or 251.342.0462, ext. 225

or visit christumcmobile.com/celebraterecovery.

A Christ-centered 12-step program for life’s hurts, hang-ups, and habits. Recovery is a journey you don’t have to travel alone.

Every Thursday | 6:30 p.m. | Building F

TUESDAY, MARCH 15 8:30 A.M. - 11:30 A.M.Across from Recreation Desk

Provided by Susie OllhoftChrist UMC Health Care Ministry

FREE BLOOD PRESSURE CHECKS

n Grieving the death of a loved onen Hospitalized or recovering from hospitalizationn Lonely or discouragedn Coping with a terminal illness n Caring for a family member with a terminal illnessn Unemployed or in a job crisisn Disabled or caring for an ill or disabled family membern Moving or relocating

n New to the congregation or the communityn Anticipating the birth or adoption of a childn Homebound or institutionalizedn Transitioning into retirementn Dealing with the crisis of agingn Facing a life transitionn Experiencing a spiritual crisisn Victims of a disaster or accident

STEPHEN MINISTERS CAREOur Stephen Ministers provide confidential, one-on-one Christian care to people who are:

And for people facing countless other crises or life challenges or who are going through a difficult time and could benefit from the care of a supportive Christian friend. Do these words resonate with you in a special way? Would you like to know more about Stephen Ministry at Christ UMC or about becoming a Stephen Minister at Christ UMC? If so, please contact Donna Alexander at 251.510.0905. Your call is confidential.

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STAY CONNECTED WITH CHRIST UMCCHRISTUMCMOBILE.COM

To receive the Christ UMC In The Loop email blast or electronic version of the monthly newsletter, visit

CHRISTUMCMOBILE.COM/MEDIA

SUNDAY8:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Coffee & Donuts

8:00 a.m. Sanctuary Worship Service Sunday School - All Ages

9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Library Open

9:15 a.m. Sanctuary Worship Service NewSong Worship Service Early Elementary Worship Preschool Sunday School 9:16 Youth Worship Adult Sunday School

10:20 a.m. Youth Singers

10:40 a.m. Sanctuary Worship Service NewSong Worship Service Adult Sunday School Tween Worship Early Elementary Sunday School

11:00 a.m. Youth Ringers

5:00 p.m. Evening Worship Service Youth Worship Preschool Choir Children’s Choir

6:30 p.m. College Group

MONDAY8:00 a.m. Lifegate

TUESDAY9:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. Library Open

6:00 p.m. Exaltation Ringers

6:30 p.m. GAP (off campus)

WEDNESDAY8:00 a.m. Lifegate5:30 p.m. Youth Re:Fuel6:00 p.m. Adult Studies Singles Bible Study Youth Bible Study Children’s Wednesday Night Single Mom’s Class DivorceCare6:15 p.m. Stephen Ministry

6:30 p.m. Sanctuary Choir

THURSDAY9:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. Library Open

11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Ransom Cafe

6:30 p.m. Celebrate Recovery

MONDAY - FRIDAY8:45 a.m. - 12:45 p.m. Preschool

9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Mom’s Day Out

LIBRARY

During March the Lighthouse Library is celebrating St. Patrick’s Day with novels by two of our favorite authors and fun children’s books about St. Patrick and leprechauns. Stop by the Library in March and pick a Bible verse doubloon from the pot of gold.We hope you enjoy the following books and movie:

Weekly Activities

ONLINE GIVING IS NOW AVAILABLEVisit christumcmobile.com/give OR install the Pushpay app from the Google Play Store or the App Store OR text “christumc” to 77977.

LIKE USfacebook.com/christumcmobile

FOLLOW UStwitter.com/christumcmobile

PODCASTchristumcmobile.com/media

WATCH LIVEchristumcmobile.com/sermons

JEFF’S PERCEPTIONS | 7:40 A.M.WKSJ 94.9 FM | WRKH 96.1 FM | WTKX 101.5 FM

OR ONLINE AT christumcmobile.com/jeffsperceptions

LISTEN TO JEFF’S PERCEPTIONS

LOCATIONThe Music Hallway, Building B.

A convenient drop box is located in the hallway just outside the Library.

HOURS OF OPERATIONTuesday 9:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.Thursday 9:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.Sunday 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

For children:n The Night Before St. Patrick’s Day – What happens when your daddy catches a leprechaun?

n There Was an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Clover – Find out why she swallowed a clover and what else she may have swallowed.

n The Story of St. Patrick’s Day – All about a 4th century little boy who grew up to become a priest.

n Ten Lucky Leprechauns – Learn how the luck of the Irish is shared by the leprechauns.

n That’s What Leprechauns Do!* – There could be some mischief involved in this story.

For children:n Tim O’Toole and the Wee Folk; An Irish Tale* – The lilt and rhythm of this book makes it a great “read aloud.” Learn whether receiving gifts from leprechauns is a good or bad thing.

n Jamie O’Rourke and the Big Potato* – An Irish Tale that tells us that taking the easy way out can be more trouble than it’s worth.Novels for adults:n Galway Bay and Of Irish Blood By Mary Pat Kelly

n Ireland: A Novel and Simple Courage:

n The Story of Peril on the Sea By Frank Delaney

*Denotes new books to the library.

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6:30 p.m. Christian Cancer Support Group

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8:30 a.m. Free Blood Pressure Check

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6:00 p.m. DivorceCare

6:00 p.m. DivorceCare

6:30 p.m. Celebrate Recovery

6:30 p.m. Celebrate Recovery

For more information on Christ UMC visit christumcmobile.com

6:30 p.m. Celebrate Recovery

11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Ransom Cafe

SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY

611:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Ransom Cafe

11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Ransom Cafe

REGISTER NOW FOR SUMMER CLASSES Register for classes by visiting

KindermusikAtchristunited.comCall Trish Dougherty at 251.706.3336 or trish@christumcmobile.com.

11:00 a.m. Preschool Fun Day

10:00 a.m. Lydia Circle

Mary & Martha Circle at mailcircle.net

5:30 p.m. Crossroads Circle

6:00 p.m. DivorceCare 6:30 p.m. Celebrate Recovery

Find help and healing for the hurt of separation and divorce. DivorceCare is a friendly, caring group of people who will walk alongside

you through one of life’s most difficult experiences. Wednesdays, 6:00 p.m.

Child care available for infants - 5th grade.For more information, contact Dawn Bratcher at dawn@christumcmobile.com or 251.706.3328.

PALMSUNDAY

PRAYER EMPHASIS SUNDAY

with Maxie Dunnam FAMILY EASTER EXPERIENCE

5:30 p.m. Seder Meal7:00 p.m. Maundy

Thursday Communion

7:00 P.M. GOOD FRIDAY

CONCERT

7:00 p.m. Single’s Spring Dance

6:00 p.m. DivorceCare

6:00 p.m. DivorceCare

6:00 p.m. Singles

6:00 p.m. Singles

6:00 p.m. Singles

6:00 p.m. Singles

6:00 p.m. Singles

6:30 p.m. Maxie Dunnam Study begins

9:30 a.m. Ladies Bible Study begins

6:30 p.m. Ladies Bible Study begins

7:30 a.m. Men United Bible study

7:30 a.m. Men United Bible study

7:30 a.m. Men United Bible study

12:00 p.m. Men United Bible study

12:00 p.m. Men United Bible study

12:00 p.m. Men United Bible study

12:00 p.m. Men United Bible study

6:00 p.m. Men United Bible study

High School Nashville Trip

Confirmation Retreat

4:00 p.m. Confirmation Celebration 7:00 p.m. Middle School

Fun Night

Young Runner Club Parent Conference

Young Runner Club Practices Begin

Flag Football Registration begins

CHRIST UMC OFFICES CLOSED5:00 p.m. Church-wide Prayer Service

9:00 a.m. Starting Point

9:45 a.m. Esther Circle

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CHRIST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH6101 Grelot Road • Mobile, AL 36609-3611251.342.0462 • christumcmobile.com

Join us for a wonderful day filled with fun as we celebrate the

resurrection of Jesus Christ.Christ United Methodist Church

6101 Grelot Road | Mobile, AL 36609christumcmobile.com

Activities10:00 a.m. –12:00 p.m.

Inflatables – Cotton Candy – Snow ConesGames – Hot Dogs – Popcorn – Train – Petting Zoo

Easter Experience12:00 p.m. –1:00 p.m.

Puppet Team Performance – Drama Team PerformanceEgg Hunt for Kids – Hunger Game Egg Hunt for Youth