Friday Fives

1.Preaching Series - This Sunday, January 12th, we will observe Baptism of the Lord Sunday. Baptism is such a holy time and because of that we have established it as one of our Sacraments of the Church. As such, we will spend our time together focusing on the power and importance baptism has in our lives. I encourage you to come and be a part of this special time as we remember our baptism and give thanks.





2. Advent Conspiracy Update - WE DID IT! Thanks to the generosity of this congregation, we did it. We met our goal and will be able to partner with Belleview UMC to buy an Ark of Hope from Heifer International and we will be able to pack meals for children in Africa through Stop Hunger Now. I will begin to make the arrangements for our food packing date with Stop Hunger Now and will let you know when it will take place. Once again, thank you so much for partnering together to truly make an impact in the life of another person.





3. 2013 Apportionments - If you have been affiliated with the United Methodist Church for any amount of time, you may have heard this word. Basically apportionments are the share each annual conference and local church pay to support international, national, and regional missions. Our giving when combined with other churches, allow the United Methodist Church to accomplish something bigger than ourselves. We have 14 funds that we support with our apportionments and we have paid 100% of our obligations since 2003. I am happy to announce that we will continue that streak as we have met our obligation for 2013 as well! Thank you so much for your financial faithfulness to this church and the missions of our denomination.

If you would like to know more about apportionments, like the missions that are supported, please click here. It will take you to a document entitled, "A Guide to Apportionments". Here you can read more about this vital outreach ministry of our denomination.





4. Children's Home - On Saturday, March 15th, our District has been invited to the Annual Day Apart at the Florida United Methodist Children's Home. This is our opportunity to tour the campus, speak to the volunteers, and see how our financial and prayerful support is being utilized. The day will begin at 9am and will conclude with lunch on the campus at noon. I highly encourage anyone who is interested to attend. If you would like to carpool, please contact the church office and let us know so we can coordinate it. For more information, please click here.





5. Thank You! - I wanted to thank everyone for the wonderful Christmas Cards, baked goodies, gifts and words of love you shared with me and my family this Advent season. It is truly my honor to be able to be your pastor and walk with you as we live out our faith together. Thank you again for your love and generosity. It means a great deal to me.





Have a great week and I will see you Sunday!