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News & Events in Our Conference

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National Recovery Month – September 2009

The General Board of Church and Society of The United Methodist Church hopes that Annual Conferences will promote this special observance. The theme for Recovery Month 2009 is: “Join the Voices for Recovery: Together We Learn, Together We Heal.”
 
Recovery Month will
·         Celebrate people in recovery, those close to them, and the treatment providers that help them;
·         Emphasize the need to use all resources available on the Internet and in communities to better help those affected by addition and educate people about the disease; and
·         Educate public and community leaders about the realities of addiction, the benefits of treatment, and the possibility of recovery through community and web-based media.
 
Celebrate Recovery Month by hosting an event in your community, church or online. Visit www.recoverymonth.gov or call 800-662-HELP to receive more information and order or download a planning toolkit. Visit www.umc-gbcs.org to obtain worship helps and join the Addictions Network to be informed about other events and actions pertaining to addiction and recovery issues through The UMC.


Aug. 10 deadline to apply for Ethnic Local Church Grant

Program to strengthen congregations as they engage in social justice.
Aug. 10 is the deadline to apply for an Ethnic Local Church Grant from the United Methodist General Board of Church & Society (GBCS). The grants program is to strengthen ethnic local churches through education, advocacy or leadership training and development as they engage in social justice.
 
To qualify for grant consideration, applicants must be either:
  • a United Methodist local church, district, annual conference, racial/ethnic caucus, or other affiliated ethnic group/organization; or
  • an ecumenical group/organization working with and through at least one United Methodist agency or organization whose program impacts at least one United Methodist ethnic local church.
 Two funding periods are available for consideration: Aug. 10 is the deadline for the October cycle and Jan. 10 for the March.
 
Chronic social problems
Grant recipients must be programs initiated by or developed in partnership with one or more United Methodist ethnic minority local churches. Racial/ethnic persons shall be the majority of those served by the program. The project must focus on needs identified by ethnic local churches as they address one or more chronic social problems or concerns, such as housing, employment, health care, human rights, education, the environment and racism. All applicants must have a supervisory board composed of a majority of ethnic minority persons that shall make all policy decisions.
 
Each funding request will be considered on its own merits with no required minimum or maximum amount. All funding from GBCS must be used for programmatic components and not for salaries, purchase of equipment, purely administrative costs, and direct delivery of services or building construction.
 
Start-up money
The intent of the grants program is to provide start-up money. Therefore, priority goes to first-time applicants. Priority consideration shall be given to programs that are part of a Comprehensive Plan of an Annual Conference.
 
For more information, contact the Rev. Neal Christie, GBCS assistant general secretary, Education and Leadership Formation, at (202) 488-5611 or nchristie@umc-gbcs.org. Applications and required steps are also available by visiting www.umc-gbcs.org: click on the Leadership Development tab, and then GBCS Grants.


Wesley Foundation of Kalamazoo CDs

If you received a CD from the Wesley Foundation of Kalamazoo at the Annual Conference Ministry Fair and it does not work in your CD player FEAR NOT! Some of the CDs were not formatted correctly. Although they will play in a computer, they will not play in a CD player. If you would like a correctly formatted CD please contact the Wesley Foundation at andrew.wesleyofkalamazoo@gmail.com.


teachUM 2009

Highlights of teachUM 2009 at the Native American Ministries UMC in Milwaukee, WI, Aug 9-14, 2009:
 
·         Sunday evening meal with keynote speaker, Rev. Deborah Thompson, Coordinator of Missions, Ministries and Outreach for the Wisconsin Annual Conference
·         27 hour Children’s Disaster Services (CDS) workshop on Monday and Tuesday, Aug 10-11
·         Mission speakers on Operation Classroom, mission work in Africa, Individual Volunteer program
·         VBS activities with Karen children (Burmese immigrants)
·         ESL with Karen adults
·         Construction/repair projects at the Native American Ministry Church (plumber requested!)
·         Native American speakers, Stephanie Escher, Divine Savior UMC, Madison and Dawn Helton and Kim Rees, Native American Ministry UMC  on culture, and future hopes and dreams.
 
Information packet and registration form: www.umvimncj.org. Click here for flier.


UPCOMING EVENTS

Lands of the Bible Cruise
7/5/2009
Jody Pratt, Grand Rapids Lay Speaking Coordinator and Pastor Scott Manning are organizing a 12 day cruise with Educational Opportunities Tours departing November 10, 2010. The group will travel to Greece, Turkey, Israel and Egypt aboard the ship, Cristal. Travel includes time Mars Hill in Greece, the market place in Corinth, and the pyramids of Egypt. Bethlehem, Jerusalem, Galilee, and a final stop at Ephesus. Jody Pratt will also offer an opportunity to complete the Basis and Advanced Lay Speaking classes, weaving the highlights of the trip into the required course work.
  
Jody and Scott will be at annual conference after the June 5, 6:30 breakfast to answer questions. Brochures will also be available with more details on the conference information table. Direct questions or requests for additional information to: Jody Pratt at prattgji@hughes.net. 


Communications Ministry Institute
7/12/2009
The Christian Communications Ministry Institute (CCMI) resumes this summer with participants on the campus of Martin Methodist College in Pulaski, Tenn., from July 12-17.
 
The Institute, which attracts communicators working in local churches, annual conferences and in general agencies, provides excellent continuing education for veterans as well as those new to religion communications. Students completing both years of the on-campus classes and pre- and post-campus work on-line also meet the academic requirements for Certification in Christian Communications.
CCMI coursework is divided into Year A and Year B offerings, but students may begin with either year.
 
Tuition and fees for the courses offering continuing education credit will be $850 for students enrolling in three courses or $375 each for day courses (writing and law and ethics) and $150 each for the evening courses. Students may take both day courses, but only one evening course. Travel, housing and meals are not included.
 
The Christian Communications Ministry Institute is a collaboration of the Cal Turner Jr. Center for Church Leadership at martin Methodist and the Committee on Certification in Christian Communication in The United Methodist Church.
 
To register or learn more about the Institute, visit http://www.martinmethodist.edu/ccl/education/ccmi or contact Kathy Noble, knoble@umcom.org or (615) 742-5441. Click here for a listing of course offerings and instructors.


Christian Athletic Camp
7/19/2009
Christian Athletic Camp, July 19-26, 2009.  To be held at Duncan Lake Middle School, Caledonia, MI. There is still time to register.  CAC has a spot for you. Pass it on! Unlike most sport camps, we avoid specializing in one sport and encourage campers to try a variety of sports in a loving and supportive environment.  While many camps are for developing skill in a particular sport, CAC has a broader purpose.  We use sports as a tool to promote growth as Christian disciples.  We are still accepting registrations.  So if you thought it was too late for registering, it is not.  Pass it on. Contact  CAC Registrar, Wendy Clark at 616/363-8500 or email: gracewac@comcast.net for information or registration form. 


FOCUS 2009
7/20/2009
For Christian Education Directors • Pastors • anyone in Children’s Ministries
Come to worship, learn, and discover innovative ways to faithfully form our children!
July 21 - 24, 2009; Pre-Conference: July 20, 2009
Indianapolis, Indiana
 
Focus 2009 is about educating and ministering to children. The event provides attendees with innovative workshops, unique worship experiences, inspiring preachers, dynamic speakers, relevant resources, and networking opportunities that support creating, renewing and revitalizing ministries locally and globally. Visit www.gbod.org/focus2009 for information and registration.
 


MEGA Kids Camp at Cornerstone Church
7/20/2009
Where kids have fun learning about Jesus through their love of sorts or the arts. Kid swill learn basic skills for the activity they sign up for, plus experience upbeat rallies,  interactive storytelling, ultra cool object lessons and small group time with adult leaders.
 
It’s all July 20-23, from 6PM -8:30PM, at Cornerstone Church.  2045 68th Street SE, Caledonia. MEGA Kids Camp is FREE for 3 year olds – those who will attend 5th grade in the fall. 3-year olds – Kindergarteners will enjoy “Crocodile Dock” where they become a part of the Bible story. 1st -5th graders will choose an activity of Basketball, Soccer, Cheerleading, Karate, Painting/Drawing, Wood Working, Photography or Cooking*.  Sign up at www.cornerchurch.org.


School of Mission invites you to Albion College
7/21/2009
"Together at the Table" is the theme of the 2009 School of Christian Mission hosted by Albion College. The four-day school for men, women, children and youth, will be held July 21-24; Drive-In Day is Saturday, July 25. Classes for adults include:
  1. Food and Faith, the spiritual growth study for everyone led by Rev. Dan Hofmann
  2. The Beauty and Courage of Sudan, the country study led by Joanne and Joe Perez, and Diane Allarding.
  3. Giving our Hearts Away: Native American Survival, the social justice topic led by Jerry DeVine and Theresa Little Eagle Sayles.
"For generations the table has been an important symbol of the gathered community...Yet when we gather at the table there are contradictions. At the table there is feast and there is famine. At the table, treaties are made and treaties are broken. At the table, hospitality is offered and hospitality is denied...All are together at the table of God's love." For school flyer and full details about classes for men and women, click here. The focus of the Kids Mission School will be the Sudan Project. Youth will experience, "Food, Faith and Me." Click here for more details. This Registration Form provides sign-up for all ages. Scholarship help is available; download form here.

Saugatuck-Douglas Jazz Festival
8/1/2009
The Saugatuck UMC will be hosting part of the 1st Saugatuck-Douglass Jazz Festival on August 1, 2009. Our own Chef Jay Monson will be serving his award winning chili from our Cinema Café!
10am-5pm         Idlewild documentary and jazz movies
7 pm                 Shahida Nurullah w/ Kris Johnson Group and Marion Hayden
8 pm                 A Night at the Idlewild Club House
A dramatization of a fictional dinner meeting with W.E.B. DuBois, Madam C.J. Walker and Dr. Daniel Hale Williams; all with Idlewild, Michigan roots.
9 pm                 Cruz Brothers
 
For tickets and the complete line-up for the festival visit: www.s-djazz.com or call 313-965-0505


Worship! 2009
8/2/2009
Rethinking church…Rejoicing in God
August 2-5, 2009 Holland, MI
 
Grand Rapids District Superintendent Laurie Haller will be the conference preacher and preaching workshop leader:
o        ·         Bringing together folks interested in worship and liturgical arts in an intimate setting for developing a strong sense of community
o        ·         Offering practical classes in all areas of worship arts, making this a great opportunity for all participants to hone their worship skills
o        ·         Building on the success of Worship! 2008 and preparing for the worship ministries of the future
Follow this link for more information or to register for Worship! 2009.
 
Held at First United Methodist Church of Holland & Haworth Inn & Conference Center, Hope College.
Sponsored by The Fellowship of United Methodists in Music and Worship Arts.


Arts Alive Camp – Parables in the City
8/10/2009
Please join First United Methodist Church of Grand Rapids for their 2009 Arts Alive Camp to be held August 10 – 13, 2009 from 9:00 am – 3:00 pm. This year’s camp theme will be Parables in the City with a new focus: expressing faith through vocal music, dance, and visual arts. 
 
Camp staff includes dance instructor Katie Martin-Browne and vocal teacher Kimberly Walton.  Katie Martin-Browne isa senior Political Science major at Barnard College of Columbia University, where she also minors in Dance. She began dance classes at the age of three and has since trained and performed with Ann Arbor Ballet Theatre, Joffrey Ballet School, the Barnard Dance department, and Walt Disney World Entertainment. She loves all kinds of dance and has taught everything from hip-hop to bhangra to classical ballet through a program called Artists Reaching Out, which allows her to work with New York City public school students once a week. She is excited to return to Arts Alive, where she helped out with the dance classes during the summers of 2006 and 2007, and is looking forward to having a great time with your children!   Kimberly Walton, a soprano, who has performed throughout the United States and Europe was most recently seen as Josephine Popelka in “Comedy on the Bridge,” and will be singing Marcellina in “Le Nozze di Figaro” in Brugge, Belgium.  She currently lives in New York City teaching voice, piano, and chorus at the Wadleigh School for the Performing Arts.  Originally from Holland, Michigan, Ms. Walton has been very active in the Methodist Church and is excited to return to Michigan to teach music for Arts Alive camp.
  
The camp is for children entering 1st – 6th grade in the fall of 2009.  Cost for the camp is $95 and includes lunch, a water bottle and a t-shirt.  Scholarships are available based on need. Arts Alive Camp is located at: First United Methodist Church (227 E. Fulton St. - Grand Rapids, MI  49503).  For More Information Contact: Laure Mieskowski at (616)451.2879 (laurem@grandrapidsfumc.org) or download the brochure/registration form here . Registration Deadline – August 1. Enrollment is limited; campers are registered on a first come, first serve basis.


Spiritual Leaders Conference
8/17/2009
Save the date: August 17-20, 2009
 
“Mystery in a Nutshell: Sharing in God’s Glory”
Colossians 1:26-27
 
Leaders: Bishop Reuben Job, Dr. Amy Oden, Bishop Hee Soo Jung and Bishop Bruce Ough
More information coming soon!


Michigan Area School for Pastoral Ministry
8/18/2009
August 18-20, 2009 – Lexingon Lansing Hotel, Lansing, MI (formerly known as the Sheraton).
Our The 2009 theme for the Michigan Area School for Pastoral Ministry is “Taking it to the next level”: Preaching, Teaching and Growing Disciples. Our preacher will be Dr. John Ed Mathison. He is the former Senior Minister of the Frazer Memorial United Methodist Church in Montgomery, one of the fastest growing United Methodist Churches in America. Frazer also has the largest Sunday School attendance for United Methodist Churches in America.Frazer is committed to involving lay people in ministry. Eighty-three percent of the resident members are involved in a specific area of ministry. In retirement our resident teacher has founded the John Ed Mathison Leadership Ministries. One of the major objectives of this ministry is to provide training opportunities for young pastors. Dr. Mathison will share with us he best practices that he has developed over the last forty-five years.
Our teacher for 2009 is Rev. Dr. Lillian Daniels. She is the Senior Minister of First Congregational Church in Glen Ellyn, Illinois. She is also the co-host of Chicago’s “30 Good Minutes” television program, which features the leading voices in religion today. Dr. Daniel is a noted author, former preaching professor at Yale University, frequent contributor to the Christian Century, wife and mother. She has much to offer us, and will do so with much enthusiasm and wisdom.
School Registrar is Rev. Julie Greyerbiehl. Contact her for registration material.

Burning Bush
8/27/2009
Burning Bush, offered through GBOD’s Discipleship University, is a two-year experience for congregations to focus on developing an intentional process for making disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world.
 
In response to the current economic realities facing the country and our congregations, GBOD has redesigned the format of Burning Bush. Comprised of five multi-day experiences, the first and fifth experiences will be held in Nashville at the General Board of Discipleship. The middle three sessions will be conducted at each of the participating congregations and facilitated by GBOD congregational guides assigned to congregational teams. For a team of three, this new format provides a savings of at least $5,000 over the course of two years.
 
Participation in Burning Bush is open to congregations of any size. Congregational teams must begin their participation with the first experience in Nashville. New learning groups begin approximately every six months. The next learning group (Burning Bush 2) begins on August 27-30, 2009 in Nashville. Registration is $125.00 per person per session, plus travel, lodging, and some meal expenses.
 
Congregations that are ready to be intentional about Christian discipleship can find additional information and apply for participation in Burning Bush at www.gbod.org/burningbush or by calling (877) 899-2780, ext. 1760.


North Central Jurisdiction Division on Ministries with Young People (NCJ DMYP) 2009 Convocation and Legislative Assembly
8/28/2009
The North Central Jurisdiction Division on Ministries with Young People (NCJ DMYP) is once again hosting its annual Convocation and Legislative Assembly, August 28-30, 2009. Young people are crucial to the life of the United Methodist Church. The annual Convocation and Legislative Assembly allow both young people and adults who work with young people to gather for heartfelt worship, fun fellowship, and social networking with others from the North Central Jurisdiction.
 
This year’s theme is “The Bread of Life: Become part of the multigrain breadbasket that feeds the world.”  We’ll be exploring the role of the North Central Jurisdiction as America’s Breadbasket.  We want to become multigrain bread by building diversity, feed the world through ministry with the poor, and eat the Bread of Life by growing spiritually. Read more.
 
Each conference is asked to send three youth, three young adults, and two adults who work with youth and/or young adults as voting delegates. ALL youth, young adults, and adult workers are invited and encouraged to attend the event. Click here for registration form. Registration can also be completed online (www.ncjdmyp.org). This year’s Convo will be held at the Chula Vista Resort in Wisconsin Dells, WI ( www.chulavistaresort.com).  A registration fee of $125 covers lodging, meals (breakfast Saturday-lunch Sunday), and programming.
 
The highlight of 2009 Convo is the election of Jurisdictional representatives to the Global Young People’s Convocation and Legislative Assembly in Berlin, Germany. Interested? Click here and visit www.globalyoungpeople.org for more information.
 
If you would like to get involved in the NCJ DMYP leadership, apply here to be a Steering Committee Chair: A youth or young adult from the NCJ serves as chair of the DMYP. The Chair presides over all meetings and legislative sessions of the DMYP and Steering Committee. This person should have basic knowledge about the UMC Discipline and DMYP actions. This is a one-year commitment. Please note that repeated failures of communication during your term may result in replacement.


Praise music class offered by Methodist Theological School in Ohio
9/18/2009
Depending on which church leader you talk to, the explosion in contemporary worship music—often called praise music—is either a blessing or a curse, an energizing boon to worship or an inconvenient complication. But most worship leaders would agree on one thing: Contemporary music has established a lasting foothold in the life of many congregations.
 
To serve musicians, pastors and worship planners seeking to use praise music most effectively, Methodist Theological School in Ohio is offering a convenient course, “Congregational Song: Praise and Worship,” taught by Dr. Robin Knowles Wallace, professor in the Taylor Endowed Chair of Worship and Music. Designed for busy church leaders, this one-credit-hour graduate-level course will be held on three sessions over two weekends: 6-9 p.m. Friday, Sept. 18; 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 19; and 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 17.
 
The class will consider texts, tunes, subgenres, guidelines for appropriate use, and creative alternatives. Tuition for the course, including one hour of credit, is $510. It may be audited for $160. To register, contact Registrar Susan Lamphere at slamphere@mtso.edu or 740-362-3344. To learn more about the class, contact Robin Knowles Wallace at rwallace@mtso.edu or 740-362-3431.
 
Located in Greater Columbus on U.S. Route 23, the Methodist Theological School in Ohio is an ecumenical school, preparing transformational leaders for service to the church and the world. MTSO offers master’s degrees in divinity, counseling ministries, theological studies and Christian education, as well as a Doctor of Ministry degree. For more information, visit www.mtso.edu.


United Methodist Foundation Upcoming Training Opportunities
9/26/2009
 
Below are some training opportunities scheduled for the coming months. Please contact us if you'd like more information about an even, or if you'd like to coordinate a training event for your church or institution.
 
Encouraging the Joy of Generous Giving
This wonderful opportunity to learn more about encouraging joyful giving at your church will be hosted at two more times in 2009 in various locations throughout Michigan. Scheduled speakers include Dr. Wayne C. Barrett and David S. Bell of the United Methodist Foundation of Michigan; financial advisor, Joel Barrett; and Craig Sharp, a Vice President with Merril Lynch. The investment is only $10 (payable at the door), so make plans to attend now.
 
September 26, 2009
9:30 - 12:30p
Rockford UMC, Rockford, MI
 
September 27, 2009
9:30 - 12:30p
Grand Blanc, MI
 
If you are interested in attending one of these seminars, please contact us so we can get you registered. Space may be limited. Visit http://www.umfmichigan.org/churcheducation.html for more information.
 


Open Door Ministry of Downtown Lansing ‘Celebrate’
9/26/2009
Lansing Central UMC, 215 N Capitol Ave
Saturday, September 26, 2009
5:00 - 8:00 PM
 
Five Year Anniversary Celebration featuring:
 
  • Eclectic Ethnic Feast/Banquet
  • Live Music
  • Silent Auction
Come join the fun! Details to follow. Contact Cris Bobier for more information  517-485-9477 ext. 29


Super Sunday 2009
9/27/2009
Super Sunday 2009 which will be held this year on Sunday, September 27 from 2:30 – 5:00 P.M. at Holt United Methodist Church. This free leadership training experience is being sponsored this year by the Lansing District of the United Methodist Church. You will note that early arrivals will be treated starting at 1:30 P.M. to incredible music. This year in addition to the Holt UMC praise team, Megan Bowker, a wonderful Fiddler from MSU will share her talent. Our keynote speaker is Dr. Philip Amerson, President of Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary. His address will be followed by an all-star line-up and participants will get to choose from one of 14 great 90 minute workshops.
 
In addition to workshops that will equip persons for better serving the church, there are also workshops being offered that will be a blessing to affected persons in our churches on grief, challenging children and youth, unemployment, cooking, and alzheimers…. Click here for the flyer.


CLASSIFIEDS

FOR SALE
Organ available
CONTACT:
---Standard Church Organ ---Rodgers Organ ---Scarborough 110 ---2 Upper Keyboards and Full Pedal Keyboard ---Pre-sets ---Transposition ---Light Oak Cabinet $500 donation or negotiable. For more information, please contact Mary Burton, Church Secretary Farwell United Methodist Church, farwellumc@triton.net.

FOR SALE
Choir robes for sale
CONTACT:
Trinity United Methodist Church of Lansing has choir robes for sale. The 60 robes are cream colored with a dark blue yoke with dark blue panels hanging from the yoke and the Methodist cross and flame on one of the panels. The sleeves are trimmed in blue too. The length ranges from 46" to 61". The robes are priced at $40 a robe. Please call (517) 367-0476 or email Smithc2303@aol.com.

FREE ITEMS
FREE Organ
CONTACT:
Lowrey Rhapsody organ free to a good church home. Offered by a Portage resident. Call Portage First UMC (269) 327-6761 if interested.

FREE ITEMS
Need a pew?
CONTACT:
Christ United Methodist Church of Battle Creek Michigan has 4 pews we would like to give away to a church or facility that could use them. If interested, email Kay Uselton, Office manager, at BCChristumc@comcast.net.

FREE ITEMS
Adult Choir Robes - Free
CONTACT:
27 Murphy choir robes, green with white trim, including matching two sided stoles and two director robes. Robes are washable, some minor mending needed on a few robes, but most in good condition. Please contact First UMC Lansing at (517) 321-5187. Robes can be picked up at the church.

HELP WANTED
Administrative Assistant
CONTACT:
Battle Creek 1st UMC is seeking candidates for a new position on the Ministry Team titled Administrative Assistant. Candidates would have qualifications and experience in current secretarial and bookkeeping skills. The position is the lead public contact person on a daily basis in an urban ministry setting. 38 hours weekly. Send all resumes and all inquiries to brumcj@att.net.

HELP WANTED
Director of Retreats and Camping
CONTACT:
Director of Retreats and Camping sought for large multi-site camping ministry within the Minnesota Annual Conference (regional body) of the United Methodist Church. Director will manage property, facilities, personnel, program, marketing, finance, administration, hospitality, and supervise all site managers. Director reports to Executive Director of Connectional Ministries and is the primary staff person for the Retreats and Camping Ministry Team. Qualifications include Bachelors degree or appropriate professional certification, at least two years of administrative or supervisory experience in an organized camp, knowledge of accepted camp management practices. The position description is available at www.campminnesota.org. Click on “Camps and Retreats”, then on camping forms and documents. Email resume (HTML) to jim.perry@minnesotaumc.org or mail to Rev. James Perry, 122 W. Franklin Ave #400, Minneapolis, MN 55404. To be considered, the resume must be received no later than July 31, 2009.

HELP WANTED
Nursery Supervisor
CONTACT:
Faith UMC (2600 7th St NW, Grand Rapids) is looking for a new NURSERY SUPERVISOR, for approximately 3 hours each Sunday. Requirements include experience with children, a current negative TB test, certification in child/infant CPR and First Aid, references and a background check. If you have questions or wish to apply, contact Linda Pearson at the church office, 453-0693, or by email at grfaithumc@att.net.

HELP WANTED
Junior High School Youth Director Position
CONTACT:
First United Methodist Church of Grand Rapids (227 Fulton St E) is searching for an energetic, creative person who enjoys working with junior high youth. The Junior High Director will oversee weekly programs for our 7th – 8th grade Sunday night fellowship program & will assist the pastor in teaching Sunday morning confirmation classes. The coordinator will report to, and work closely with, the Director of Youth & Young Adults. Preferably, candidates will have volunteer or paid experience working with youth in a church or similar setting. This is a part-time paid position, from late August through the first week of June. For additional information, contact Laure Mieskowski at 616-451-2879 or laurem@grandrapidsfumc.org.

HELP WANTED
Facilities Manager Job Announcement
CONTACT:
Needed part-time Facilities Administrator, 32 hours per week, to work at East Lansing church. Facilities Administrator is responsible for guiding the stewardship of the facilities and properties of the church and of a faith-based student ministry with additional administrative responsibilities related to the personnel resources of both facilities. Candidate should have excellent administrative and supervisory skills and knowledge of building and facilities maintenance and management. Candidate should also be in good physical condition and able to work well with people. Experience with facilities management for a church or faith-based organization is a plus. Compensation negotiable. References required. Send a letter of interest and a resume to University United Methodist Church, 1120 S. Harrison Rd., East Lansing, MI 48823 (Attn. Facilities Administrator Search Committee) or email materials to uumc@tds.net with Facilities Administrator Search Committee in the subject line. We are an equal opportunity employer.

HELP WANTED
Christian Educator Job Description
CONTACT:
Conscientious, competent educator who will be responsible for multigenerational Christian education within the Hillsdale First United Methodist Church Expectations: Assess Christian educational needs of congregation and community Work with education committee to design program(s) Implement adopted program(s) Monitor and adjust accordingly Up to 30 hour/week Compensation: $20-25/hour for self-contracted employee, Timeline: Application on line and due to Hillsdale First United Methodist Church by July 15, 2009. For complete description including qualification, contact Hillsdale UMC at hillsdaleumc@sbcglobal.net. Position to begin August 24, 2009

HELP WANTED
Praise Team Leader
CONTACT:
A Praise Team Leader is needed for our Contemporary Service at St. Paul's United Methodist Church in Kentwood. This is a part-time position, and we are looking for a person experienced in a Contemporary Worship setting, who is comfortable leading and directing musicians and vocalists, and working cooperatively with others in creating this service. This requires a 10 to 15 hour commitment per week, 52 weeks per year, with time off available as needed. A job description will be available upon request. Please send your resume by June 15 to Rev. Cathi Gowin (revgowin@aol.com ) and Dan Walsh at (dholwalsh@yahoo.com), or mail them to St. Paul's UMC, attn: Dan Walsh, 3334 Breton Rd. SE, Grand Rapids, MI. 49512-2798.

HELP WANTED
Holt UMC Openings: Chancel Choir Accompanist & Bell Choir Director
CONTACT:
Chancel Choir Accompanist Piano Accompanist to Chancel Choir at weekly Thursday night rehearsals, and Sunday 11:00 a.m. traditional worship service (September – May). Upon request, accompany special music and, in consultation with Organist, select and perform appropriate music for congregation worship and special events. Accompany larger choral work (seasonally based, additional rehearsals possible). The Tokai piano, purchased in 2002, is a Baby Grand with the same soundboard used in Steinway pianos. 4 hours per week. Compensation $3,000-4,000 annually. Prior church experience desired. Bell Choir Director Direct Bell Choir at weekly Thursday night rehearsal and monthly performances at traditional worship service (September – May). In collaboration with Pastor and Chancel Choir Director arrange for special music for both 8:30 a.m. Chapel and 11:00 a.m. traditional service. Compensation $3,000 annually. Prior church experience desired. Please send or fax a current resume to Holt United Methodist Church: Holt United Methodist Church 2321 North Aurelius Road Post Office Box 168 Holt, Michigan 48842-0168 Congregation Size: Contact: Rev. Dr. Glenn Wagner (Pastor) pastorglenn@acd.net Mrs. Eileen Hamilton (Staff/Pastor Parish Relations Committee) hamiltonef@hotmail.com Day Phone: 517/694-8168 Fax: 517/694-2319 Church E-mail: holtumc@acd.net Web Site: www.holtumc.org

HELP WANTED
Portage Chapel Hill Office Assistant
CONTACT:
Chapel Hill Staff Position Available: OFFICE ASSISTANT - The successful candidate will work in a cooperative front office staff environment. The Office Assistant has reception and hospitality responsibility, as well as production of the weekly bulletin and other basic clerical and project assistance responsibilities. 15 hours per week with potential for expansion. Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Publisher and Excel is expected, and experience with Adobe InDesign a plus. Applicants may submit their resume electronically to: office@pchum.org , or mail to: Portage Chapel Hill United Methodist Church, Attn: Sue, 7028 Oakland Dr., Portage, MI 49024. Application deadline is June 29, 2009.

HELP WANTED
Kalamazoo District Administrative Assistant
CONTACT:
The Kalamazoo District of the West Michigan Conference of the United Methodist Church is hiring a new District Administrative Assistant to begin September 8, 2009. This position will be full time, at 32 hours per week, with full benefits. Candidates must be self-motivated, with strong computer skills, web design and the ability to work well with people. The Application Form and Job Description can be downloaded from the Conference website at www.westmichiganconference.org (go to Resources, to Forms, and enter Kalamazoo District Administrative Assistant on the search bar) or click here. To apply, please send a cover letter, resume, and completed Application Form to ndavis@kazoodistumc.org no later than 4 pm. Monday, July 6, 2009.

HELP WANTED
“Church in the Park” pianist needed
CONTACT:
Grandville United Methodist Church is seeking a pianist to play the keyboard for “Church in the Park” services this coming summer. Church in the Park worship is held Sunday mornings @ 8:30 AM, from Sunday, June 14 – Labor Day Sunday, September 6. For information, please contact Robin Ballou at 616-538-3070.

ITEMS WANTED
White Pastor Robes for Africa
CONTACT:
Zambia requests white pastor robes. The conference rules in Zambia say the pastors must wear white robes in any official capacity except for funerals. Consequently, there have been several requests for white pastor robes. If you could forward any used white robes to the United Methodist Church of Ludington addressed to Dave Hamman, Mission's Chairman, 5810 Bryant Road, Ludington, MI 49431, we will see that it gets to the proper destination in Zambia.

ITEMS WANTED
South Georgia Conference local church in need of items
CONTACT:
The Kite Charge (4 rural churches) in the South Georgia Conference is in need of paraments, altar Crosses and candlesticks and communion linens. If any church in your conference can help, please contact Rev Dr Dwight D Irons at DRDDI@aol.com.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED
Clark Retirement Community Volunteers Needed
CONTACT:
Clark is in need of Ice Cream Shop Attendants: Tuesday afternoons -Friday mornings - Saturday afternoons or sub's. Hours of operation - Mornings 9am - 11am - Afternoons - 1:30 - 4PM Training is provided - Great family opportunity or great way to spend quality time with your teen. We also are in need of a Wii Instructors for Saturday afternoons, bi/weekly. Contact Geraldine Pringle,Coordinator Volunteer Services, 616-452-1568 or GeraldineP@clarkretirement.org.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED
Harbor Harvest Urban Ministries seeking Volunteers
CONTACT:
Harbor Harvest Urban Ministries is seeking adult and high school youth volunteers for one, two, or three days of service in our Summer Exploration Program. There are a few weeks that aren’t covered by volunteers and we need your help. A minimum of 10 volunteers is needed each day and your congregation is encouraged to respond. For additional information, contact Rev. Sandra Douglas at 269-926-4214 or hhum@juno.com.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED
Worship Musician
CONTACT:
Lawrence UMC needs a musician to lead worship in many different styles of music. We are a small congregation that is growing and needs help in the music realm. We have a Yamaha Clavinova. For info and/or description. Call 269-674-8386 or email: lawumc@hotmail.com.

DEATH NOTICES (within the last month)

Phillip E. Beal
DIED: 6/30/2009
We have received word of the death of Phillip E. Beal, a retired missionary who served in Korea and Singapore. He died on Tuesday, June 30. Phil is survived by his wife, Kathleen K. Beal (619 Appletree Drive, Holland, MI 49423) and their adult children.    The visitation and memorial service will be held at First United Methodist Church of Holland, Michigan (616.396.5205). The visitation will be on July 10, 4:00-8:00 p.m.  The memorial service will be on July 11 at 11:00 a.m.    Memorial gifts can be sent to:   UMCOR PO Box 9068, New York, NY 10087   Sojourners 3333 14th Street NW, Suite 200 Washington, DC 20010    U of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Center 1500 East Medical Center Drive Ann Arbor, MI 48109  

Arlo Don Vandlen
DIED: 6/7/2009 BORN: 8/25/1920
Rev. Arlo Don Vandlen, 88, died of a stroke on Sunday, June 7, 2009. He was born August 25, 1920, in Hastings, MI, son of Harford and Carrie Bell (Roberts) Vandlen. Arlo was a graduate of Taylor University in Indiana and Garrett Theological Methodist Jurisdictional School.    For over 60 years he served churches of the United Methodist Church in Redkey, Indiana, and the Jackson, Vermontville (1943), Leslie (1947), Dimondale (1948), Weidman (1954-1962), and Ionia United Methodist Churches (2000) in West Michigan; as well as the United Church of Christ at Congregational churches in Lakeview, Dowagiac, Comstock Park, MI and the First Congregational Church of Port St. Lucie, Florida, where he was their founding minister.   He was also a Michigan teacher for 20 years, serving Delta Center; Sheridan Road School of Lansing; Weidman; and Lakeview.   He was preceded in death in 1978, after 35 years of marriage, by his first wife Doris June (Mattoon) Vandlen; three brothers, Verden, Wayne Carroll, and Merwin Vandlen, and one sister, Audrey (Vandlen) Brace.   Surviving are his present wife of 30 years, Gerry, and his three children: Doug (Anne) Vandlen; Larry (Jayne) Vandlen, and Carolyn (Ted) Peterson; seven grandchildren, and nine great-grandchildren; as well as 3 step-daughters, Sue (Jeff) Main, Linda (John) Drobish; and Karen Sipp; 6 step-grandchildren and 5 step-great-grandchildren; as well as one sister, Alice (Howard) Fryover; sisters-in-law Wanda and Francis Vandlen, and many nieces and nephews.   A Memorial Service will be held on Wednesday, June 10, at the Comstock Park Congregational United Church of Christ, 62 Lamoreaux Blvd. Comstock Park, MI with Rev. Dr. Dick Woodward officiating. A luncheon will be served following the service. A second Memorial Service will be held on Thursday, June 11, at 2 p.m. at the Clark Retirement Community, 1551 Franklin St. SE, Grand Rapids, MI, with Rev. Leon Andrews officiating.   Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider the Memorial Fund of Comstock Park Congregational United Church of Christ, PO Box 343, Comstock Park, MI 49321; or Clark Retirement Community Foundation Benevolent Care 1551 Franklin, SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49506. Phone: 800-770-1117.   Inurnment will be at Memorial Garden at Lake Louise Methodist Church Camp, Boyne Falls, MI at a later date.   Arrangements are being handled by Hurst Funeral Home of Greenville, MI. 
 
West Michigan Conference, United Methodist Church
11 Fuller SE, PO Box 6247, Grand Rapids, MI 49516-6247
Phone: 616-459-4503 | Email: webteam@wmcumc.org