July 2018

A Message from Tim

Connected CommunionOne strength of the United Methodist Church lies in its connection. As members of Germantown UMC, we are part of the worldwide UMC. When we support our local church, we also support the mission and ministries of our Conference and of Methodism worldwide.

One connection the Memphis and Tennessee Annual Conferences have is in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The Conferences are partnering with the East Congo Episcopal Area of The United Methodist Church for Congo Women Arise – an initiative to address the needs of rape survivors in a location often called the “rape capital of the world.” During 20 years of bloody conflict, more than any place on earth, the women of the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo have suffered rape, abandonment by their families and communities, and HIV/AIDS. Survivors of rape need resources to recover physically, emotionally and spiritually. Providing counseling, learning income producing skills, and receiving access to health and mental care will mean these women can rewrite their stories from victim to survivor.

A women’s center is being provided where women can learn income-generating skills such as cooking, sewing, midwifery, and childcare to provide long-term sustainability. The Center is being called the Mama Lynn Center after Lynn McAlilly, the wife of our Bishop Bill McAlilly.

At Annual Conference, a communion cloth made by the women of East Congo was purchased for the church by one of our delegates, Barbara Schanson, in support of the project. It has two symbols, the cross and flame of the UMC, and a heart with angel’s wings. We will use this cloth for the bread at July’s communion and in communions to come. As we do so, we will remember that we are in communion not only with God’s saints in glory, but also with those saints who are suffering in our world today.

Visit www.congowomenarise.org for more details, resources and to donate. Communion Cloth

Bishop McAlilly has posted on his blog “Greater Things Are Yet to be Done” about the results of the vote to form a new Conference.

You can read more by visiting Bishop McAllily’s blog at bishopbillmcalilly.com.

I am pleased to announce that the Memphis and Tennessee Annual Conferences have voted, each by more than 87%, to endorse the intent to move forward with a plan to form a new conference!

With this positive vote, the conferences have agreed to rely on God to show us the “new thing” that God is doing! (Isaiah 43:19)

Resolution for Intent to Form a New Conference Passes

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MembershipReza Abdoli was welcomed into membership on Sunday, June 10th at the 9:40 worship service. He joined by transfer of his membership from St. John’s UMC, Edwardsville, Illinois. His Sponsor is Erin Keel.

When asked what about Germantown United Methodist Church made him wish to become a part of our church community he answered, “For me the main reason to join a church community is the people – how friendly and welcoming they are. And I’m glad to find GUMC a welcoming and friendly place to be a part of it.”

Brian Blackwell and Jessica Cashdollar joined GUMC on Sunday, June 10th at the 9:40 worship service. They joined by transfer of their membership from a sister denomination in the Memphis area. They have joined the Emmanuel Sunday School Class. Their Sponsor is Casey Condra.

When asked what about Germantown United Methodist Church made them wish to become a part of our church community, they answered “The People!! The Children’s Ministry is awesome! Lisa Pierce is amazing! The youth group is wonderful! Sue Hyland is just fabulous! We love our Sunday school class (Emmanuel)!”

The Staff Parish Relations Committee is happy to announce that our next Director of Music is Todd Wilson. Todd has served as a church musician for nearly thirty years, most recently as Director of Music at Bartlett United Methodist. As a singer, he has performed with the Dale Warland Singers, the Bach Society of Minnesota, St. Louis Symphony Chorus, St. Louis Chamber Chorus, Savannah Chamber Chorus and the Memphis Chamber Choir. He has worked with many leading conductors including Dale Warland, Roger Norrington, Sir David Willcocks, Leonard Slatkin, Martin Pearlman, Richard Hickox, Paul E. Oakley, Tom Peck, Amy Kaiser, Dennis Sparger, and Phillip Barnes. He was a Young Artist with the Bach Society of St. Louis and Interim Music Director for the Savannah Choral Society. Todd studied at Culver-Stockton College, Webster University and Eden Theological Seminary.

His wife Mary is a nationally recognized soprano. Her website is www.marywilsonsoprano.com if you wish to send her notes of welcome.

Their ten year old son Fletcher and two Vizslas, Max and Ruby, keep the Wilsons quite busy. When he begins at GUMC, Todd’s email will be twilson@germantownumc.org.

Todd views himself as a music educator attempting to grow and nurture the Church’s mission through music and deepen the congregation’s love for the Church’s great traditions of music. Todd also likes to fish and kayak, and used to play a lot of golf.

Todd will officially begin on Monday, August 6th. Todd’s first Sunday in Worship will be Sunday, August 19. On that day, receptions will be held at 9:30 following the first service, and at 12 noon following the late service.

We know Todd will be a wonderful addition to our staff. We welcome Todd, Mary and Fletcher to Germantown United Methodist Church!

Welcome Todd Wilson as New Director of Music

Todd Wilson and Family

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Stewardship 2018One of Jesus’ great teaching parables involves a sower who cast seed along the ground. The sower hoped the seeds would sprout, grow, and bear good fruit. Some seeds did just that, producing a great harvest. But others, Jesus said, fell among

thorns and, though they began to grow, these good plants were quickly choked out. Jesus said the thorns were “the cares of the world and the lure of wealth” (Matthew 13:22)

In a culture where having “enough” seems to have become a never-ending pursuit, Jesus’ parable remains incredibly relevant. Many of us are chasing a dream in ways that lead to stress, anxiety, and fear – thorns that can rob us of the ability to enjoy the abundant lives of purpose that God intended for us.

All of us have struggled with these issues at one time or another. They are important issues that we cannot ignore. This is why, over four weeks in August and September, we will offer a church-wide study and worship emphasis called Enough: Discovering Joy Through Simplicity and Generosity. During this time we will provide materials to explore what the Bible teaches us about financial management through worship and small group study. Every Sunday school class is welcomed and invited to use the materials provided. Starting in August, you are invited to visit the Germantown UMC website (germantownumc.org) for details about small group study opportunities. Each week we will provide you with some practical tools you can use to assess your financial situation and develop a financial plan with a biblical foundation.

At the conclusion of the series, we will have the opportunity to make personal commitments of our offerings to God through our church in the coming year. We will consecrate these commitments on Sunday, September 30, 2018 in all three of our worship services.

Make your plans to join us in the coming weeks as we look at how we can manage our financial resources and truly experience simplicity, generosity, and joy.

Sunday, August 26, First Stewardship Emphasis Sunday, September 2, Regularly Scheduled Sunday

Sunday, September 9-23, Stewardship Emphasis Sunday, September 30, Celebration and Consecration of Commitments

Kari Sutton was welcomed into membership with GUMC on Sunday, June 10th at the 11:00 worship service. She joined by transfer of her membership from Peachtree Road UMC, Atlanta, GA. Her Sponsors are Joan & James Brown.

When asked what about Germantown United Methodist Church made her wish to become a part of our church community, she answered “I grew up in this church, so when I moved back to Germantown a few months ago I started attending GUMC again with my two boys. I love the fact that there are so many neighbors and members that I still know.”

Cathy Reid was welcomed into membership on Sunday, June 10th at the 11:00 worship service. She joined by transfer of her membership from Myers Park UMC, Charlotte, NC. Cathy has joined the Pathfinders Sunday School Class. Her Sponsor is Lisa Marinos.

When asked what about Germantown United Methodist Church made her wish to become a part of our church community, she answered “The people. GUMC is a welcoming church!”

Amee and Andrew Merkle joined GUMC on Sunday, June 10th at the 11:00 worship service. They joined by Reaffirmation of Faith. Their Sponsor is Mary Groh.

When asked what about Germantown United Methodist Church made them wish to become a part of our church community, they answered “We felt peaceful and ‘at home’ at GUMC. We also have found many avenues to serve others while growing our own faith here. Our son was drawn to the youth group as well.”

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Our events are open to all adults age 55 and older, singles and couples, regardless of church membership. Mark your calendar and make your

reservations for these events today!

Older Adults Luci Cromer - luci2@comcast.net - 901-755-0803

Older Adult Programming to Resume in September...Don’t forget – the next Brown Bag Lunch program will be September 7. XYZ programming will start on August 31.

Watch the Tidings for information about these kick-off events. In the meantime, have a wonderful summer break.

XYZs See Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder in August!Come with us as we kick off our 17th

season with this rollicking, Tony award-

winning musical comedy. Gentleman’s

Guide tells the uproarious story of Monty

Navarro, an heir to a family fortune who

sets out to jump the line of succession by

– you guessed it – eliminating the eight

pesky relatives who stand in his way.

All the while, Monty has to juggle his

mistress (she’s after more than just love),

his fiancée (she’s his cousin but who’s

keeping track?), and the constant threat

of landing behind bars! Of course, it will

all be worth it if he can slay his way to his inheritance... and be done in time for tea. Make your reservation NOW

for the musical that will have you dying with laughter.

WHERE: Playhouse on the Square WHEN: Friday, August 31, 2018 COST: $20 per person includes transportation and reserved seat. DEPARTURE: 6:45 p.m. from OLEC parking lot. (Be there by 6:30 p.m.) RESERVATIONS: Call Luci Cromer, 755-0803, Gretchen Blair, 755-0797, or Garnet Brenneman, 754-3711. You must make your reservation before paying. DEADLINE FOR MONEY and RESERVATIONS: Tuesday, July 31.

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Older Adults, cont. Luci Cromer - luci2@comcast.net - 901-755-0803

Summer is Upon Us – Our Handy Helpers are Waiting for Your Call...The Handy Helpers Ministry Team, sponsored by the Older Adult Council, lends a “helping hand” to older adults in our church who need assistance with small repair and maintenance jobs around the house.

What Type of Jobs do Handy Helpers Do?

• Light maintenance and repairs including small carpentry jobs such as malfunctioning doors, locks, or windows.

• Minor electrical work such as replacing light switches and light bulbs.

• Replacing smoke alarm batteries.

• Minor plumbing work such as working on “running” toilets or leaky faucets.

• Other miscellaneous jobs are considered on an individual basis.

Handy Helpers do not work on large or small appliances, roofs, home decorating, or on jobs requiring tall ladders.

What Does the Service Cost?

The Handy Helpers service charges only for parts and materials used in the repair. There is NO charge for labor.

To Qualify for the Handy Helpers Service:

You must be a member of Germantown United Methodist Church, have homeowner’s liability insurance, and be over 60 years of age.

To request assistance, please contact Charles Waters, 286-4823

Handy Helpers

Adult EducationMEMBERSHIP CLASS: WELCOME TO GUMC! Sunday, July 15th, beginning at 9:40-10:40 and continuing from 12:00-1:00What’s distinctive about the United Methodist Church? Even if you’re in church every Sunday, it can be difficult to feel like you really know the UMC’s history, beliefs, mission, and culture. Join our ministers to learn about the roots of the United Methodist Church going back to John Wesley and his devotion to inviting people to experience God’s grace. Hear about the United Methodist Church structure, sacraments, and get an overview of the mission and ministries of Germantown UMC.

If you have been worshiping with us and you would like to learn more about our church or if you think you might be interested in becoming a member, we invite you to attend our upcoming class. Participation in the workshop does not commit you to church membership, but it is an opportunity for you to find out more about the life and ministry of our church and for us to become better acquainted with you.

This workshop is open to members, prospective members, or anyone wanting to know more about The United Methodist Church and GUMC. A boxed lunch will be provided. Childcare is available by reservation. Register at germantownumc.org

For further information on our membership class or on joining the church, please email Mary Groh mgroh@germantownumc.org or call her at 901-754-5093.

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Fall/Winter GUMW Children’s Consignment SaleShop Friday and Saturday, August 24-25!It’s that time of year! Clean out the closet clutter, rummage through the attic, and sort through the garage for children’s clothing, furniture, toys, baby equipment, and more. GUMW Children’s Consignment Sale registration is now open! Visit gumwclothingsale.com to review guidelines and details. All proceeds from this sale benefit GUMW missions. It’s a 29-year tradition of community outreach!

Can’t consign? We love donations! Coordinate with us in advance of the sale to donate your gently used items. We will price and tag each item, with 100% of the sale price going to local missions! You receive an early consignor shopping pass in return, along with a thank you letter as your receipt for tax purposes. Please be sure your donated items have an approximate value of more than $40. Email info@gumwclothingsale.com for more information.

We also need volunteer help and have many shifts available! Volunteers who work at least four hours get to shop early at the Thursday pre-sale event. Sign up online at gumwclothingsale.com.

Our consignment sale serves as a wonderful outreach to the community, attracting people from all over the Mid-South and bringing them into our church as consignors, shoppers, and volunteers. Join us and help make a difference. Thank you for your support!

Important Dates:Consignor registration deadline/inventory entry is Tuesday, August 21, at midnight. Refer to the website for complete information about accepted merchandise and consignor instructions.

Drop off: Wednesday, August 22, 5-8 p.m. and Thursday, August 23, 8 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Pre-sale: Thursday, August 23, 5:30-8 p.m. Volunteers who work 8 or more hours may shop at 5:30 p.m. Those who volunteer 4 or more hours may shop at 6 p.m. Consignors may shop at 6:30 p.m.

Public Sale: Friday, August 24, 8 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Public Half-price Sale: Friday, August 24, 5-8 p.m. and Saturday, August 25, 8 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Pick-up: Sunday, August 26, 10:30 a.m. - 2 p.m.

United Methodist Women Chesley Porteous - women@germantownumc.org

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Making Summer Memories at the Owings Life Enrichment CenterThe OLEC has “Jumped into Summer” with a Splash!! It all

started with two fabulous Youth under 5 T-ball teams. Coach Brian and Beth Ueleke (Red Team) and Coach Zach Ponder (Blue Team) went head to head with 4 other churches this Season. Score keeping is at a minimum for 4 year olds, but we’re thinking we may have scored more!!

We have a new instructor named Kristen McNew Hunsucker who came from Iron Tribe, Lifetime Fitness and the GAC. She has been teaching Cycle on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 9:45 a.m. Please help up in welcoming her. All levels are welcome to her class.

Our newest event is Mommy and Me Stroller Fitness. It will be a 4-week event held from July 17th - August 7th. INDOORS. Contact Kristen at kcmcnew@gmail.com, or call us at the OLEC at 753-3100 for more information and pricing.

We had a very successful “Girls Rule the Kitchen Fitness and Cooking Summer Camp” held the week of June 11th. It was, according to Judy Oros, “the most fun I’ve had in a very long time.” The girls, according to Judy, were 15 of the most amazing, talented, athletic, and best cooks she has ever come across.

Continue following us on @Olec2323 on Instagram or the new Owings Life Enrichment Center Facebook Page (the one with our OLEC gym logo). We strive to inspire, challenge and dedicate our expertise in health and fitness to GUMC and our OLEC members. Feel free to drop in for our “Quick Start” to learn all about our newest and up-to-date equipment.

We are truly blessed to serve you –

Todd Hinton, Director of the OLEC

Judy Oros, Assistant Director of the OLEC

Health and Recreation Todd Hinton - thinton@germantownumc.org

FALL SOCCERREGISTRATION

IS NOW OPEN!FALL SOCCERREGISTRATION

IS NOW OPEN!Co-Ed Teams for all 4 Year Olds!

Registration at theOwings Life Enrichment Center2323 West Street, Germantown

Contact joros@germantownumc.org for more information.

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Germantown United Methodist Church2331 South Germantown RoadGermantown, TN 38138www.germantownumc.org901-754-7216

Editor’s Note: The deadline for submitting articles for Tidings is the 10th of the month prior. Submissions received after this dead-line are not guaranteed to run.

Lauren Wright Hobbs Nursing Scholarship Awarded to Grace Delorme

The Emmaus Sunday School Class is proud to announce that we have chosen Grace Delorme to receive the 2018 nursing scholarship in Lauren’s name. The scholarship was established to honor Lauren who loved serving others in the nursing profession. She lost her battle with cancer at the age of 29 in October of 2013. She left a wealth of family and friends who will always remember her with love and happy memories.

Grace best exemplifies the model that Lauren lived by believing that God led her into this profession of service. She just graduated from Germantown High School and has been accepted into the Nursing Program at The University of South Alabama for the coming fall semester.

Grace is a very active member of our church who has participated in multiple youth activities including our Youth Choir, trips to Mountain TOP, and volunteering at Holy Community Church and Manna House. She has also served for several years as a helper in our church nursery.

This scholarship will be awarded annually to a member of GUMC who is pursuing a degree in nursing. Donations can be made at any time to this scholarship fund by writing your check to GUMC with ‘Lauren Wright Hobbs Scholarship’ in the memo line.

Thanks so very much to those who have already donated to this scholarship in Lauren’s name.

Lauren Wright Hobbs

Grace Delorme