January/February 2007
Getting Fit:
How To Live Life At Your Best
Although we faced financial challenges for 11 months of the year 2006, our December giving was the best ever – and we finished 2006 in great shape! Thank you for the strong showing, and let’s see if we can stay ahead for the whole year 2007! In addition to giving toward the budget, these are some of the special offerings and projects that were also supported:
Zimbabwe Medical Clinic $33,217
Pass It On Ministry $18,363
Youth Ministry Stock Sale $12,370
Alpha’s Glory $3,375
Habitat for Humanity $3,187
Seminary Scholarship Fund $2,972
One Great Hour of Sharing $2,958
Volunteers In Mission (VIM) $2,020
Homeless Shelter $2,000
Manna House $1,660
BAUMC Scholarship Fund $1,591
Board of Child Care $1,577
Lightner Library $1,208
Both attendance and giving were up last year, and many of you are taking the step towards tithing. Great things are happening in our youth ministry. Sunday School, small groups, and worship services are touching and changing lives. It looks like the medical clinic in Zimbabwe could be started this summer. We will make a difference together in 2007 as we pray, serve, study, and give together!
The sermon series, Getting Fit: How To Live Life At Your Best, has encouraged us to be Physically Fit (Need help keeping that New Year’s resolution?), to be Financially Fit (Take stock in your future), explained how to Schedule Fitness (Why is 24 hours never enough?), to find Emotional Fitness (When all the pieces don’t fit, find “peace”), and to improve our Relational Fitness (Every relationship can improve). The series will conclude with Relational Fitness (Facing fear) and Spiritual Fitness (Finding strength and power for daily life). If you’ve missed any of these sermons, transcripts are provided in the weekly e-Spire (if you’re not on the distribution list, call the Church Office) and both cassette tapes of the worship service and CD copies ($2 each) of the 8:00 AM sermon are available at the Welcome Center .
Additionally, our Parish Nurses have a display in the Narthex about numerous health topics and have started a Walking Group! The Walking Group meets on Sunday afternoons at 3:00 PM and on Wednesdays and Fridays at 4:45 PM . To join, just meet in front of McComas Hall ready to go! (Just a reminder, too, that the Parish Nurses provide Blood Pressure Screening one Sunday each month.)
During the Fitness series, we have also been offering some “healthier” food choices (fruit, low-fat muffins, cereal, etc.) during Morning Fellowship. Of course, this has been in addition to the 20 to 24 dozen donuts, the bagels and bananas, and the juice and coffee provided! (If you’re interested in helping to provide these additional food items on a continuing basis, please contact Alice Archer and let her know.)
Finally, send in your registration for our upcoming Equipping Conference!
EQUIPPING CONFERENCE
Getting Fit: How To Live Life At Your Best!
Saturday, March 10, 2007
Make plans now to attend the Equipping Ministries Conference at Bel Air United Methodist Church, “Getting Fit: How To Live Life At Your Best,” based on the recent sermon series, on Saturday, March 10, 2007. Participate and explore more deeply how you can grow in your faith by taking seriously the challenge of “Getting Fit” spiritually!
Choose two workshops to attend from the 12 excellent workshop choices for adults, also featuring two specifically designed for children (Kindergarten thru Grade 5) and two for youth, and be ready for a day of great fun, fellowship, and learning! The cost of this exciting conference, which includes childcare, children, youth, and adult workshops, PLUS lunch and breaks, is $15.00 per person or $25.00 per couple. Children and Youth are FREE!
Advance registration is required, and payment must accompany registration . Registration forms are available at the Welcome Center and from the Church Office. The registration deadline is 4:00 PM on Monday, March 5, 2007.
SCHEDULE
8:30 AM Registration 1:00-2:45 PM Workshop B
9:00 AM Workshop A 3:00 PM Gathering in Sanctuary
10:15-10:30 AM Break 3:30 PM Dismissal
10:30 AM Workshop A (contd)
12:00-1:00 PM Lunch
See the registration form for complete descriptions of each workshop .
WORKSHOPS: SESSION A
CHILDREN ONLY (Kindergarten thru Grade 5)
Feeling Fit
Presenter: Joni Behrendt, Director of Children & Family Ministries
YOUTH ONLY
Teenagers: Understanding Your Parent
Presenter: Tom Hodges, Director of Student Ministries
ADULT WORKSHOPS:
#1 Healing Is A Choice
Presenter: Victoria Elkins, LCPC of Safe Harbor Christian Counseling Services
#2 Raising Great Kids
Presenter: Amy Patrick of Safe Harbor Christian Counseling Services
#3 Developing Healthy Relationships
Presenter: Heidi Shrieber-Pan of Safe Harbor Christian Counseling Services
#4 Planned Giving
Presenters: James Haupt, Elder Law Attorney & Rev. Daryl Williams, Director of Investments & Planned Giving, Baltimore-Washington Conference
#5 No Time Left For God: When Spiritual Fitness Doesn’t Seem To Fit
Presenter: Cindy Caldwell, Director of Adult Discipleship
#6 The Spirituality of Fear
Presenter: Rev. Will Butler, Pastor of Churchville Charge & National Guard Chaplain
WORKSHOPS: SESSION B
CHILDREN ONLY (Kindergarten thru Grade 5)
Faith Fitness
Presenter: Joni Behrendt, Director of Children & Family Ministries
YOUTH ONLY
A Worship Experience
ADULT WORKSHOPS:
#1 Safe Haven Marriage
Presenter: Marie Satterwhite, LCPC of Safe Harbor Christian Counseling Services
#2 Diets: What Might Work For Me?
Presenters: Various
#3 Understanding Your Teen (And Why You Need To!)
Presenter: Tom Hodges, Director of Student Ministries
#4 Getting Financially Fit
Presenters: Debbie Englar, Stewardship & Finance Committee Member and Rev. Barry Hidey, Lead Minister
#5 No Time Left For God: When Spiritual Fitness Doesn’t Seem To Fit
Presenter: Cindy Caldwell, Director of Adult Discipleship
#6 The Spirituality of Fear
Presenter: Rev. Will Butler, Pastor of Churchville Charge & National Guard Chaplain
CHARGE CONFERENCE
The church’s annual Charge Conference was held on December 4, 2006 , called to order by Rev. Dr. C. Anthony Hunt, Superintendent of the Baltimore-Harford District. The meeting started with a time of hymn singing, communion, and prayer. Cindy Caldwell came forward to offer testimony about the ways in which God is working in the lives of people in our church. She introduced Patrice Dirican and Don Millner, who spoke about their experiences. Dr. Hunt addressed the group and thanked God for his association with Bel Air UMC and for our ministries both locally and across the world.
In addition to the Pastor’s Reports given by Rev. Barry Hidey and Rev. Peggy Groseclose, written reports were provided by Rev. Doug Hollida (Worship & Arts), Joni Behrendt (Christian Education, Children & Family Ministries), Tom Hodges (Student Ministries), and Cindy Caldwell (Adult Discipleship). A report was presented by Bill Benson, Chair of the Administrative Council, and there was also a written report from the Compass Task Force. (These reports are printed below.)
Reports were given by the Board of Trustees, the Finance Committee, and the Staff-Parish Relations Committee. The annual report on Ministry to Members was reviewed, and the nominations of church leaders for 2007 were approved. (See the listing of members of the 2007 Administrative Council and the church’s various boards and committees.)
Pastoral compensation for the clergy was approved for the coming year. Reports were presented and approval was given for our Certified Lay Speakers: Susan Buttimer, Cindy Caldwell, Elaine Crowe, Jim Palmiter, Bob Phillips, Devonna Rowe, Leonard Rowe, Bob Sherman, Beverly Talbot, and Don Renner. Cindy Caldwell was approved and affirmed for her continuation as a candidate for ordained ministry.
If you have any questions about the Charge Conference or Administrative Council, please contact Bill Benson, Chair of Administrative Council, or Rev. Barry Hidey.
Editor’s Note: As we take this look back on 2006, we hope you gain a better understanding of the work of the church and how we go about fulfilling our Mission Statement through worship, stewardship, Christian education, fellowship, congregational care, and through our many, many ministries and missions. There’s a place for you to participate, to serve, to give, to learn… The invitation is extended.
Report of the Pastor
Rev. Barry E. Hidey, Lead Minister
We, the congregation of Bel Air UMC, are called to make disciples of Jesus Christ, as we show all people the way to the Father, teach them to know the Son, Jesus Christ, and prepare them to grow in faith and ministry, empowered by the Holy Spirit.
I am thankful for a dedicated staff and a committed team of lay leaders who provide the leadership to enable all of this ministry to happen. You will find, in the following reports, a great review of the ministry and missions of Bel Air United Methodist Church . I want to acknowledge that none of this could have happened if we did not have all of the people who serve in this church and beyond that provide the time, labor, money, talent, and prayers.
“We always thank God for all of you and continually mention you in our prayers.” 1 Thessalonians 1:2 (NIV)
I am grateful that the congregation, through their giving, has enabled us to put together a wonderful team of staff. For the first time in about six years, we have had all the people we needed for the whole year, and it is having a positive impact on our church. The addition of Tom Hodges has brought excitement, spiritual life change, and lots of active youth into our church. The best is yet to come, and we are excited that Tom is part of our team.
We also hired a person to help us manage the database system and help coordinate our tracking and follow-up with our visitors and guests. Lisa Wolf does a great job managing the information about the thousands of people in our database, and always finds a way to get me the information I need to lead this church! Welcome, Lisa!
We have made some changes in worship, as we celebrated the end of trueFusion this summer and brought the gifts and excitement of the team and congregation into the 11:00 worship service. At the same time, we have committed ourselves to develop a way to reach the unchurched people that live in Harford County . The Off-Site Ministry Team has begun to work with a UM pastor who has expertise in church planting, and the Baltimore-Washington Conference has provided funding for hiring The Rev. Dr. Matt Poole as our consultant. I see this as one of the most important ministries for our church in the coming year. We need to engage the growing unchurched population in a life-changing way. Please pray for this team and for Jay Wohnlich as he leads it.
There have been many signs of new life in our congregation. Worship attendance is growing again this year. We continue to find many new families and younger people checking out our church. It is important that we do a better job of welcoming and connecting with our visitors and people who attend regularly, but have not engaged in the greater life of the church. We are developing a team of people who will make an honest assessment of our strengths and weaknesses and then develop and implement the most effective way to improve in this area.
This has been a tough year for our budget. We are thankful that we have been able to build a little cushion the last few years, and that has helped us weather the challenges of increased energy costs, a blizzard Sunday, and a less than expected growth in income. Our Finance Committee stayed on top of this all year -- we made significant reductions over the summer to make sure that we would live within our budget. The good news is that 2007 is looking like it might be a much better year. We have limited increases in the budget and also made some cuts in other areas, to make sure we have a budget that we can afford. $1,508,913 is our budget, and the response to Commitment 2007 has been very encouraging. To date, over 60% of our pledges are increases over last year. We hope that this will be a 7.5% increase for this year. In 2007, our Conference Apportionments will increase by $18,000 to $230,299. The apportionments allow us to provide ministry around the world and also in our region. We have always been committed to fully paying these costs each year, but concern is growing among our Finance Committee that the costs cannot continue to increase at this rate without affecting our ability to be an Acts 2 Congregation. We plan to have discussions with the Conference leadership about how to address this issue.
We have made a concerted effort to teach and train our congregation to fulfill the “SHOW” aspect of our mission statement. If we do not develop relationships with seekers in our neighborhoods, our offices, and through daily contacts, the church won’t be fulfilling its purpose to “SHOW all people the way to the Father.” We started the year with The Jesus Journey, which laid the foundation for how each follower of Jesus will take the next step in their journey to maturity. The Equipping Conference gave us many opportunities to develop skills in this area. The Da Vinci Code series explored how we might respond to many of the questions seekers have about faith in Jesus. The Franklin Graham Festival at Camden Yards gave many people a great opportunity to invite others to the event or plant the seeds of grace in their lives. The book, “No Perfect People Allowed,” was used as a text for Teleios and the inspiration for a sermon series that dealt with how the church might deal with the issues of “trust, tolerance, truth, brokenness, and aloneness.” We sought to cast a vision of a church where imperfect, hurting, normal, struggling, discouraged, seeking, and questioning people would be welcomed, loved, and find the hope and healing of Jesus Christ. Our commitment to develop an Off-Site Ministry to reach seekers in our area is one of the ways we can reach out. The 40 Days of Community was our final effort to connect our people with the needs of people in the community. Each small group did a service or outreach project in the area. These projects not only touched many people in the community, but gave us new confidence in developing a “SHOW” mindset.
We have just finished planning for the sermon series in January and February called “Getting Fit: How to Live Life at Your Best.” We believe that this series will address the challenges that we all face in our daily lives. We will cover how to be fit in mind, body, and spirit! We will be promoting this series in the Abingdon/Routes 24 and 924 corridor, as this has a large concentration of unchurched people. I will be asking the congregation to invite unchurched, seeker friends and neighbors to this series. Our 2007 Equipping Conference will have workshops that provide practical and spiritual help in developing the fitness in our lives that we desire.
Our leadership development course, Teleios, was an overwhelming success for the 25 participants on the leadership team. Through books, discussion, service projects, the Leadership Summit Conference, and hands-on leadership of the 40 Days of Community, these men and women grew in their leadership skills and in their walk with Christ. Most of the graduates are already using their skills in leadership in our church. This year, we have invited several churches in the area to join with our Teleios course. This will provide an added diversity and insight to our groups, while BAUMC tries to help other churches grow to their potential.
There have been several teams created this year: The Legacy Team is helping our church members understand ways that they can “Leave a Legacy” through financial and estate planning. Thanks to Jim Paradise for leading this team. Our Zimbabwe Medical Clinic Team has taken off this year under the leadership of Dave Talbot. The visit of Rev. Lloyd Nyarota raised the awareness of the need in Zimbabwe , as well as helping us to develop better planning for the building of this Medical Clinic. Tim Knabe has organized a team to join with the “Faith Works 2 Build” of Habitat for Humanity. Tim’s idea of the dunking booth was a smashing success. I am thankful that our people pray better than they throw!
I continue to serve on the Board of Ordained Ministry. This Board oversees the recruitment, selection, continuing education, and continued care for the clergy of the conference. It is a challenging and rewarding experience, as a majority of our work is with candidates for ministry. As evidenced in our 50 year celebration of the Ordination of Women Clergy, Bel Air Church continues to be a place where the call to ordained ministry is heard and answered. The church cannot continue to grow, unless there are called, trained, and committed clergy to lead us.
The Compass Task Force has spent the last year researching and compiling information that will help us to discern how we might be most effective in reaching the people outside the walls of this church. In the year to come, we will begin to process that information and begin to understand the needs of the community and what God is calling us to do to reach those who don’t know Christ, those who have given up on church or their faith, or those who are looking for something (or someone) that can give them their true meaning and purpose in life.
The Baltimore-Washington Conference, under the leadership of Bishop John Schol, has affirmed the need for every church to become an Acts 2 church as part of the Discipleship Adventure. (Please see the footnote about this at the bottom of this report.*) Our Mission Statement is a commitment to the goals of the Discipleship Adventure and “The Jesus Journey: Living Life with God’s Word” is our way to fulfill the goals of the Discipleship Adventure. The good news is that the Bishop is holding all the churches accountable to bear fruit in their church. There is a Congregational Evaluation that the church lay leaders have completed that is helping us to see our areas of needed growth and goals that we need to make to continue to be a growing and life-changing church.
We cannot become all that we are called to be without a foundation of prayer, commitment, courage and empowerment by the Holy Spirit. I call on each person in our congregation, young or old, member or attender, to take the next step on their Jesus Journey in order for us to be the church that we are called to be!
On the Journey,
Barry
*The Discipleship Adventure is a holistic inward faith journey -- celebration (worship that magnifies God’s presence); connection (fellowship that builds the body of Christ); and development (study and spiritual disciplines that grows disciples); and an outward faith movement -- service (justice and mercy ministries that serve the community); and sharing (evangelism that makes new disciples) based on Acts 2:41-47.
Acts 2 fruit is based on Acts 2:41 -47 and in today’s language includes:
Report of the Pastor
Rev. Marguerite B. (Peggy) Groseclose, Senior Associate Minister
Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will exalt you. James 4:10
This morning’s devotional talked about the need of a broken spirit in order to do God’s work in a powerful way. It gave examples of Moses, who felt compelled to intervene when he saw the suffering of his people; David, who heard the taunts of Goliath; Esther, who took a great risk to save her people; and Nehemiah, who heard a report about the condition of Jerusalem and moved forward to rebuild the temple and the land. The devotional goes on to say that a broken spirit forces us to see God as powerful and holy and also to see ourselves as an integral part of God’s plan. It is out of a broken heart, a broken spirit, that we are driven into deeper levels of prayer and we are stirred into action.
And that is what Congregational Care, and what the Social Justice Ministries of Bel Air UMC are all about. They grow out of a deep compassion and broken heart for those who are hurting, and a strong desire to bring the light of Christ into people’s lives.
We are blessed with many ministries in these areas, with literally hundreds of people reaching beyond themselves to offer a cold drink of water to those who are thirsty for God. From a simple caring phone call, to walking beside people going through grief of the loss of a loved one or divorce, to teams of workers traveling to Louisiana to rebuild homes lost to hurricanes, or to host and work in a homeless shelter here at BAUMC, our members live out Christ’s servanthood. There are about 70 people praying through our weekly Prayer Chain, and through the prayer requests we receive, it is obvious that there is much yet to do as God leads.
I have come to realize that Congregational Care is not a title that means to just care for the members of BAUMC, but to lift up our members so as they grow in faith and wholeness, they can reach out to care for others beyond the walls of our sanctuary. It is through this living out of Christ’s love that people will know that Jesus is alive today through the work of the church. His Spirit is also a powerful weapon against injustice as lived out through the church. This is the reason that Congregational Care and Social Justice walk hand in hand.
Instead of listing all our ministries, I will note the highlights of the year and our hopes and goals for the coming year.
In February, we celebrated the 10th anniversary of the Shepherd Ministry. In March, we equipped and commissioned seven new Shepherds.
Also in March, we held a day of equipping. Topics covered most of the ministries of the church. I taught two classes which were well attended. One was on Listening with Your Heart, and the other class was on responding to crises. In response to a county workshop on ministry in crises, I learned about a community initiative called Face-It. It is an ecumenical ministry which partners with the County Department of Drug and Alcohol Control for the education and prevention of addictions. This effort is funded by the Rush Center of the Johnson Institute. The goal is to make our sanctuaries safe havens for those whose family members are addicted, and for people seeking support and resources for healing. Our congregation sent a team of nine to a two-day training, and the new ministry we have is called The Recovery Connection. We held a worship service on addictions in the summer, and a number of people in our congregation responded. Two people gave powerful witness. We are now hosting a monthly open house with speakers on various aspects of addiction. These are open to the public without charge. The hope is that in the spring we will reach out to help educate our youth. We are in the process of making and distributing education packets with contacts that people can call for help. Our team membership is growing, and we have already been instrumental in helping families find help. With the addition of other churches to Face-It, we can make a strong statement to the community of the grace and healing that God offers.
This summer we preached through a book by John Burke called “No Perfect People Allowed.” It really helped me put into focus the importance of encouraging people in the margins to meet Christ outside of and within our walls.
This past June, Connie McNey and I attended a Stephen Ministries Leaders Training in Orlando , Florida . It was an intense week of workshops. We came back with resources and information that we need to launch a Stephen Ministry here at Bel Air UMC. Connie and I have been meeting weekly studying the material and preparing to launch this ministry. We will begin training each week starting in January. By May, we will be ready to commission three to five Stephen Ministers. Stephen Ministries is a ministry of “walking beside” people in crises. The training is intense, and thoroughly biblical.
As we celebrated the completion of 40 Days of Community, we had a special celebration for Mike and Nancy Savakinas, who are retiring from leading Rebuilding Singlehood for the past 15 years. They have led literally hundreds of people into wholeness after separation and divorce. The ministry will not stop, however. Four of their graduates are stepping up into leadership. I look forward to what they will do.
I have also become active in another ecumenical organization called “Marriage Works.” This group’s focus is to: (1) strengthen existing marriages through education and making workshop and counseling opportunities available, and (2) to better train pre-weds to face the commitment they make when they marry. We have held one informational workshop for pastors and businesses, launched a website, and are a planning an event during Valentine’s week. I have found this group to be a good resource.
I’m also working with another start-up group called the Harford Ecumenical Forum. We are trying to connect pastors throughout the county to share fellowship as well as information about what’s going on here in Harford County . It will be very helpful to have a strong connectional faith community if there is a crisis in the county, and we are also learning about how we can be more involved as new people move here during BRAC. I have heard estimates of 20 to 40 thousand new residents in our county along with their families.
I believe that it is important, due to the many outreach ministries that our church has, to connect with other groups in Harford County so we can work together instead of competing with one another. There are so many needs and we have just hit the tip of the iceberg. Yet to be addressed are: transportation, senior issues, housing for people of low income, the new homeless shelter is already at capacity, gang warfare. Christ must weep when he sees how his children suffer at home and abroad. Our hearts, too, are broken, and we pray for God’s leading here at BAUMC. Of course, we will never solve all the problems of society, but we can be a candle of hope in the dark.
Continuing Education: I have earned close to 6 units this year (8 needed for the Quadrennium). I attended the Stephen Ministries Training and the Willow Creek Leadership Summit. I also took two one-day courses at the Community College, one on Excel and another on Power Point. I also receive additional training as a volunteer chaplain at Upper Chesapeake , though I have taken a sabbatical for the year from active chaplaincy.
Spiritual Growth: Learning the challenges of being a heart patient and how the idea of my own mortality is lived out in my faith. I will have more hospitalization and surgery in the year to come. Meanwhile, I need to watch my diet, control my stress, lose weight, and get regular exercise. It will test me in re-ordering my priorities and still feel effective in ministry. I’ve learned to trust God more. It has been extremely gratifying to see how the congregation has reached out to Bill and me in our time of need -- just as I lead the congregation to reach out to others. I appreciate all the care, cards, meals, prayers, and expressions of love that I have received. I truly praise God for saving my life.
Joyfully submitted,
Peggy
Report of Worship & Arts
Rev. Douglas Hollida, Director
As you probably know, the Director of Worship & Arts is a newly created position for Bel Air UMC, where I began in April of 2005. It is a job well suited for me, and I am blessed to have a job that fits my gifts and interests, dedicated staff and volunteers with which to serve, and a warm and appreciative congregation.
As Director of Worship & Arts, I have oversight of anything and everything having to do with worship, music, drama, and other arts. This can mean many things. One day it may mean tinkering with the bulletin to find one extra line of space. Another day it may mean planning a series of services that will touch people’s lives. Some times it means to cajole, prod, crack the whip… Other times it means to sit back and be thankful for so many dedicated staff and volunteers who make me look good.
A significant part of my job is to enhance our worship services, working variously as a resource person, guide, visionary, and servant. A worship service should pick you up and carry you through an experience that will leave you with a sense that God was there—that as you go out, you are different from the way you were as you entered. In practical terms, this means keeping things flowing. For our traditional services, we have added an Introduction to the
Worship Service and an Introduction to the Anthem. These additions keep us flowing with the theme of the day, and we’ve done other minor tinkering to simply eliminate gaps of “dead time” within all our services. We’ve also changed the beginning order of the service so our choir can process in without “traffic problems” in the rear of the Sanctuary. We’ve also been able to bring our handbell choir back into service.
More significant changes have come to our 11:00 worship service as we prayerfully seek to make this service more seeker-friendly and draw us all closer to Jesus. We have added music, eliminated gaps, and a priority is to have more multi-sensory experiences at that service, in other words, more skits, video clips, clowning, etc. This is difficult to do on a week-to-week basis, but when we are able to plan far ahead, we have had some exciting things. And we have some new energy for that service as the recent Sunday evening “trueFusion” service has now merged in with our 11:00 service. As we welcomed those folks in the transition, we enjoyed refreshments in the Narthex after the 11:00 worship, which was greatly appreciated by those in attendance.
One thing I have instituted is involving our entire programming staff in planning worship series. I lead “brain-storming” sessions in which we talk about the needs of our congregation and how God would have us speak to those needs. The first series that we planned this way was The Jesus Journey, which happened January 8 through March 5, 2006 . We began with a great resource document that the staff had done before I arrived on the “Seven Traits of a Disciple.” The intense preparation we did gave us incredibly focused services in which music, word, and other elements fit together for great impact. One day that stands out was when our theme was “Play Your Music.” The point was that God has prepared a special job for each of us to do and we need everyone to do their part just as an orchestra needs all its players. We closed the service by playing “This Little Light of Mine” -- on kazoos. I remember joking with folks at the time that there are very few jobs in the world that call on one to order 900 kazoos. But these things, though seemingly simple, create a lasting impression on those who participate.
Another task I did through The Jesus Journey was to edit the weekly devotion booklets that appeared in each bulletin. Written by our staff, these booklets, along with an evolving display in the Narthex, helped contribute to the many, deeply heart-felt comments the staff received about the way The Jesus Journey was touching hearts and souls. The Journey ended with our Equipping Conference, which offered classes on each of the Seven Traits of a Disciple. I taught classes on prayer and worship.
Since that time, I have led planning for the “Christ Culture” series last summer as well as the “Getting Fit” series that will begin January 14, 2007 . I was also very involved with the series on the Da Vinci Code last spring, as well as the 40 Days of Community in the fall, the latter ending with “Celebration Sunday” at Bel Air High School , a service which I put together with much help from staff members and volunteers.
In the coming year, I hope we can do more series that we plan as a staff with all the creative ideas that come with that. I hope to compose more (I’ve written 14 organ compositions since arriving here). One dream I have for the church is a Youth Show Choir. I’m waiting for God to raise up a director for that.
I would also like to see our healing prayer ministry become a bigger part of the culture here, and I believe it will in time. Over 125 people have taken my seminar on Healing Prayer, with over 100 of them being members here. Even for a large church like ours, that’s a phenomenal number. My hope and prayer would be that more members would take advantage of opportunities to receive prayer, and that we can expand and deepen this ministry.
I appreciate your prayers for the ministry God has given me here.
In Christ’s Service,
Rev. Doug Hollida
Director of Worship & Arts and Organist
Report of Christian Education, Children & Family Ministries
Joni Behrendt, Director
Did you know?
Some little known facts about the Christian Education and Children & Family Ministries of Bel Air UMC…
The area of Christian Education at Bel Air UMC exists to provide an age appropriate presentation of the Gospel of Jesus Christ and challenge all to grow in their faith through regular study of God’s Word. This is done through the year-round Sunday School ministry for all ages as well as special opportunities throughout the year such as Disciple and Beginnings for the adult faith community. This past year has been one in which spiritual growth has been obvious in those who make education a priority in their Christian lives. Spiritual growth is measured by the way people live out their faith both inside and outside of the church walls, and as I step back and look at the lives of those who are actively involved in deepening their spiritual lives through education and study, I see a direct impact on our community by their faith commitments as they live out their faith in the “marketplace” daily. This is where the true measure of ministry takes place! My prayer is that the people of Bel Air UMC will continue to make a difference in the community in which we live because of our faith connection and growth.
The ministries of Tiny Tot School and Children’s Christian Center provide the youngest ones in our community the opportunity for excellent education and care through the participation of these growing ministries. Bel Air UMC is recognized in the community as a place where children are a priority and their education valued. Both ministries, considered “outreach ministries” of Bel Air UMC, do just that, provide an introduction to the Bel Air faith community, and provide for families an easy transition to full faith participation. Many in our church today have entered through the doors of the Tiny Tot School and Children’s Christian Center , of which we should be proud and celebrate!
The Children & Family Ministries of Bel Air UMC exist to provide fellowship for children and families as well as serve as an advocate for children and provide a means to demonstrate that we are all part of a larger family of faith through Christ. This is accomplished by providing fellowship opportunities outside Sunday morning that demonstrate the fact that Christians can have fun together and grow in love for one another, valuing the differences we all bring into the family. Activities such as Family Ice Skating, Vacation Bible School, Wild and Wonderful Wednesdays in August Family Nights, Easter Basket night, the traditional October Hayride, and the Thanksgiving Family Feast have provided excellent opportunities for fellowship and inviting friends and neighbors to a non-threatening time of fun and most of the time food!
As we look to the many already planned activities in the New Year: Ice Skating ringing in the New Year on January 1, an all-church Super Bowl Tailgate Party on February 4, Cinco de Mayo Celebration on May 5, the annual VBS during the week of June 25-29, Terrific Thursdays in August Family Nights, Family Fun Fair on August 25, and other events yet to be announced, all open the doorway to fellowship and fun for all who are looking for a way to connect with the Bel Air faith family.
On behalf of the Christian Education Ministry Team (CEMT), thank you to all who have participated in the various education and fellowship opportunities throughout the year, and a special word of thanks to those who have stepped up to the plate, some out of their comfort zones, to provide leadership for the many ministries and programs that Bel Air UMC provides. We look forward to the New Year with great joy and anticipation in continuing “Hand In Hand With Jesus On The Journey”through fellowship and educational ministries and welcome your ideas, suggestions and support.
Report of Student Ministries
Tom Hodges, Director
This has been an exciting year for the Student Ministry! We began the year with a new Youth Director, have renamed ourselves (EXIT412 Student Ministries), had a large Confirmation Class, studied the Bible and discussed current issues as seen through the lenses of the Scriptures, talked extensively about being examples to those around us, and so much more. Listed below is a rough month by month layout of what the Student Ministry has been doing (although the list is not exhaustive):
January
● 40 people attended youth rally in Ocean City (sponsored by Delaware-Peninsula Conference)
● Confirmation began with 50 students, of which 49 were confirmed in June
● Sr. High students wrapped gifts for volunteer luncheon
● Began making contacts in schools
February
● Super Bowl Party in McComas Hall
● Confirmation (ongoing)
● Confirmation Retreat
● Studied issues relating to love in TNT (Sr. High)
March
● District Youth Rally
● Confirmation (ongoing)
● Mid High Lock-In
April
● Confirmation (ongoing)
● Began Wednesday night Mid High Bible Study called FUEL! 11 youth attended the first week.
● Easter Sunrise Service
● Studied the Book of James (Mid and Sr. High)
May
● Confirmation Day Apart
June
● Confirmation Sunday
● Trip to Creation cancelled
July
● Franklin Graham Crusade
● Baltimore Mission Trip
● Mid High to Aberdeen Ironbirds game
August
● BIG WEEK – Activity a day – Introduction/Welcome to 8th Graders into Sr. High ministry
● Whitewater rafting / Camping
● Back to School Kick-Off – fun activities in parking lot followed by concert and speaker in McComas Hall
September
● Overtime @ the Floodgate Café – post high school football game gathering with live music, food, and fellowship
● See You At The Pole – Students gathered at flag poles in front of their school and prayed together
● Student Leadership Council began meeting
● Began Sunday morning youth worship service in Youth Center
● The Floodgate Café officially opened for after school ministry – every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 2:30-6:30 PM . Opened for middle school and high school students.
October
● Resumed Saturday School – maintaining and building relationships formed during Baltimore Mission Trip
● Overtime @ the Floodgate Café
November
● Baltimore Blast game, followed by concert by Christian recording artists, Kutless
● The Floodgate Cafe
● Family Thanksgiving Dinner
● Confirmation Orientation
December
● Alternative Christmas Eve Service in Floodgate Café called “A Café Christmas” – including live Christmas music, caroling in the Homestead housing area, a Christmas message, and Christmas Karaoke
● Baltimore Mission Dinner
The Student Ministry of Bel Air United Methodist Church is beginning to grow, both in number and, more importantly, in their knowledge and understanding of the Christian faith and principles, as well as Biblical knowledge and application. We have accomplished so much in one year, and the future looks so very bright!! This year, as we prepare to go to the Rock Retreat in Ocean City , we are taking 60 people! Last year was only 40! Our Sunday morning worship service started at around 80 and is now averaging around 120, with a peak of 133! TNT (Sr. High) is growing weekly as kids invite friends, and FUEL!, which started with 11, now averages close to 25 weekly! And it’s not just about the numbers… As these kids attend the worship or weekly Bible study, they are learning important lessons about the faith and about Jesus and how He wants to be part of their everyday lives! As I hang out with kids in the Floodgate Café, I am earning the “right to be heard” when they are dealing with the “stuff” of their lives. Youth are asking deeper questions regarding their faith and how to take the “ideals” of Scripture into the “real” world they live and go to school in.
Be encouraged, excited, entranced, overwhelmed… (whatever descriptive word you’d like to insert here)… about the present and future of EXIT412 Student Ministries – A Student Ministry of the Bel Air United Methodist Church … because we are and I believe God is, too!
Report of Adult Discipleship
Cindy Caldwell, Director
Membership
In 2006 we continued our three-step journey to membership. We received 35 new adult members, engaging them in the life of the church in the following ways.
New Staff Member
Lisa Wong Wolf joined our staff in April, as Membership and Data Coordinator. Working as my assistant in membership, Lisa maintains our membership database and supports me in the many administrative tasks of visitor follow-up and membership. Her work has greatly improved the accuracy of our people records, improving our ministry to our congregation.
The Jesus Journey
In January 2006, we began a sermon series called The Jesus Journey. This series challenged our congregation to take steps in their spiritual growth in seven basic discipleship traits. I helped to create our daily devotional for The Jesus Journey, and led a team of writers who created adult Sunday School lessons.
We followed up The Jesus Journey with the Discipleship Equipping Seminar, offering workshops in each of the seven discipleship traits. I helped to shape this event, and taught two of the workshops. The series was well received, and 115 people attended the workshops.
Home Group Ministry
In 2006, the Home Group Ministry increased from 29 to 40 groups. A growing part of the “culture” of BAUMC, Home Groups are the primary place where people connect with one another for spiritual growth through fellowship, study, worship, service, and mission. Through our fall discipleship campaign, the 40 Days of Community, we launched 11 new home groups, and group members stepped out together to serve in our community. On Celebration Sunday, we heard many stories of groups making a difference through ministry and outreach projects. Many of these groups have made ongoing commitments to serve in our community and beyond.
Sunday Morning Learning
This year we continue with our five adult Sunday morning classes, including:
John Neal Packard Memorial Men’s Bible Study at 7:30 AM
Aldersgate Class at 9:20 AM
Voice of the Shepherd (formerly Adult Bible Study) at 11:00 AM
Faith In Community classes at 9:20 and 11:00 AM
I am blessed to coordinate a talented writing team for our Faith In Community lessons, which provide Bible studies on the weekly sermon themes. Approximately 75 adults attend Sunday morning classes.
Disciple Bible Studies
55 adults are enrolled in Disciple I, II, and III classes this year.
For Men and Women
Women continue to grow through the Wednesday morning UMW Bible Study and the Monday night Women’s Bible Study. Men meet monthly for a Saturday breakfast fellowship and Bible study.
Leadership Development
In September, 23 participants and 5 team members completed their first year of Teleios, A Forum for Servant Leadership Development. It has been a blessing to coordinate this program, be a part of the leadership team, and act as mentor and coach for my small group. Teleios participants explored their spiritual gifts, passions, and unique, God-given design. Through reading, discussion, and practical experience, team and students alike were challenged to develop a vision for ministry and to grow in servant leadership. Our Teleios class attended the Willow Creek Leadership Summit at the Timonium location in August. Our 2006 Teleios graduates provided the leadership for our 40 Days of Community campaign.
Room for Growth
I continue to look for opportunities to launch new groups, and provide new ways for people to connect and grow at Bel Air UMC. My goal in Adult Discipleship, with God’s grace, is to teach and lead in a way that reflects Christ and fulfills his desire for our church. That means making disciples who make disciples, and making leaders who make leaders. In this way, Bel Air Church will always be living out its mission to Show, Know, and Grow. In 2007, we will offer Beginnings, Part 2: The Spiritual Life. I hope to increase the leadership team in adult discipleship to provide more support for our growing network of home group leaders.
Report of the Administrative Council
William Benson, Chairperson
We, the congregation of Bel Air United Methodist Church, are called to make disciples of Jesus Christ, as we SHOW all people the way to the Father, teach them to KNOW the Son, Jesus Christ, and prepare them to GROW in faith and ministry, empowered by the Holy Spirit.
So here's what I want you to do, God helping you: Take your everyday, ordinary life -- your sleeping, eating, going-to-work, and walking-around life --and place it before God as an offering. Embracing what God does for you is the best thing you can do for him. Don't become so well-adjusted to your culture that you fit into it without even thinking. Instead, fix your attention on God. You'll be changed from the inside out. Readily recognize what he wants from you, and quickly respond to it. Unlike the culture around you, always dragging you down to its level of immaturity, God brings the best out of you, develops well-formed maturity in you.* As members of the Administrative Council we as called to envision, plan, and implement the mission and ministry of the church. To meet this objective, we must always seek God’s will and not fall victim to complacency. This regularly requires us to step outside our comfort zone so that we can understand, respond to and implement ministries to meet God’s call for his church.
We began meeting as a council in January in an unfamiliar setting as we traveled to Eden Inn and Resort in Lancaster , PA. We spent a noisy, sleepless weekend becoming familiar with each other as we were updated on the initial findings of the Compass Task Force. The charge of this group is to review and compare the makeup and culture of both our local community and our church and formulate recommendations as to how we can make the greatest Kingdom impact on the culture of our local community. The goals set forth will be used to set the direction of our church for the next 5 to 10 years. We finished the weekend with a 10,000-foot view of what our community looks like and were given a general sense of the ministry opportunities. In February, the Administrative Council approved the Compass Task Force request to move forward with step three of its five-step plan. We look forward to hearing from them again in 2007.
I'm speaking to you out of deep gratitude for all that God has given me, and especially as I have responsibilities in relation to you. Living then, as every one of you does, in pure grace, it's important that you not misinterpret yourselves as people who are bringing this goodness to God. No, God brings it all to you. The only accurate way to understand ourselves is by what God is and by what he does for us, not by what we are and what we do for him. To this end, many opportunities for training were offered this year.
A portion of each Administrative Council meeting is set aside specifically for leadership training. This past year we spent several months reviewing the Conferences’ Congregational Evaluation report, so that we could focus on how leadership can work to promote the mission and ministry of the church to the congregation. Improving our connection with guests and new worshippers as well as with the residents of the surrounding community will be areas of focus for 2007. In March, 120 people attended a disciple equipping conference that was offered by the church. It was a culmination of “The Jesus Journey”, a series of sermon series on the seven discipleship traits in January and February. In April the church hosted a five week “Christian Life and Witness Course” in preparation for the Franklin Graham Festival this past July in Baltimore . Rev. Hidey led a sermon series this summer based on the book “No Perfect People,” which help create a mindset in reaching out to the lost and unchurched. Finally, the congregation was engaged this fall in the 40 Days of Community, where we experienced that we were “better together.” This led to the formation of almost 20 new small groups and a host of new community outreach projects. The 40 Days concluded with an off-site worship service for the entire congregation at Bel Air High School , where we celebrated together the accomplishment of the past 40 days.
In this way we are like the various parts of a human body. Each part gets its meaning from the body as a whole, not the other way around. The body we're talking about is Christ's body of chosen people. Each of us finds our meaning and function as a part of his body. But as a chopped-off finger or cut-off toe we wouldn't amount to much, would we? So since we find ourselves fashioned into all these excellently formed and marvelously functioning parts in Christ's body, let's just go ahead and be what we were made to be, without enviously or pridefully comparing ourselves with each other, or trying to be something we aren't. It was by recognizing that we are connected and we have different functions in the body of Christ that we are able to accomplish our finest works for the Glory of God.
This fall we graduated our first class from the Teleios leadership program. The past year was spent helping to encourage new leaders to recognize their own call to leadership while training them to be equipped to lead. The original class of two-dozen attended a satellite broadcast of Willow Creek’s Leadership Summit in August. Teleios students were able to apply their skills by assuming leadership positions during the 40 Days of Community campaign. It is expected that a new class will be formed in 2007.
The Staff Parish Relations Committee helped us celebrate 50 years of women in ministry this fall by recognizing those who have come to answer God’s call from our congregation - Revs. Peggy Groseclose, Terri Sayles, and Carol Pazdersky. We also celebrate Cindy Caldwell as we give our support to her as a candidate for ordained ministry.
June was a sad time for Bel Air United Methodist Church as we met at trueFusion for the last time. However, the ministry is not lost, as many of those who served there have become a part of our 11:00 AM service team. We have also created an off-site ministry team focused on the long-term goal of creating a ministry or worship service in the community to more directly reach the lost and unchurched.
As much prayerful consideration, the Children’s Christian Center was able to secure a permanent director this year. The CCC was able to secure a valuable temporary director, which allowed them to diligently complete the process.
Communications between committees at the Administrative Council level were key to solving budget and pastoral housing issues this past year. When it appeared that budget expenses might exhaust our funds by the end of the year, Finance was able to work with staff and programming to guide us through that period and institute spending freezes. Working with current pledge information for next year, the Administrative Council has already approved Finance’s budget request for 2007. An ad hoc committee of chairs from Ad Council, Finance, Trustees and Staff-Parish was able to work together to transition our lead pastor, at his request, from the current parsonage to a housing allowance late this year, completing a more than one-year process.
If you preach, just preach God's Message, nothing else; if you help, just help, don't take over; if you teach, stick to your teaching; if you give encouraging guidance, be careful that you don't get bossy; if you're put in charge, don't manipulate; if you're called to give aid to people in distress, keep your eyes open and be quick to respond; if you work with the disadvantaged, don't let yourself get irritated with them or depressed by them. Keep a smile on your face. We are thankful that we are free as individuals to use our talents to express our God-given passions. Our staff has been influential in creating a passion in many ministry areas of our congregation. The works of Tom Hodges, who has joined us to lead our youth ministry, has inspired our youth. Our Worship & Arts Director, Doug Hollida, has helped raised awareness for the importance of a prayer-filled life, by leading praying seminars and offering healing prayer at every worship service. Rev. Peggy Groseclose has been a key supporter in the training and start of the Stephen Ministry .
The congregation has been able to channel that same passion, using their talents to support ministries both locally and globally. We continue to be a passionate supporter of the local homeless shelter as it has finally found a permanent address in Harford County . We will again partner with Habitat for Humanity to participate in Faithworks II. The Recovery Connection ministry was started this year. Our VIM teams traveled to Louisiana to continue in the cleanup of the Katrina disaster. The congregation has been overwhelmingly supporting the project to build a medical clinic in Zimbabwe . Our passion has been further fueled by last month’s visit from Rev. Lloyd Nyarota. We also reconfirmed our support for God’s Field United Methodist Church in Moscow for another 3 years. We hope to send a visitation team in 2007.
We look forward in anticipation to 2007 as we expect to begin to incorporate some of the long-term visions of the Compass Task Force to our current goals. We will again leave our comfort zone next February and spend our Administrative Council retreat in Lancaster . We will miss those who have finished their term as Administrative Council members as of this Charge Conference. I want to particularly recognize some of our outgoing members: Roger Niles as Treasurer, Sandy Miller as Trustees President, John Jones as SPRC Chair, Colleen Dombroskie as UMW President, and George Newberry as Secretary. Your tireless work and participation have been paramount to the operation of the Administrative Council.
Yours In Christ,
Bill Benson
Administrative Council Chair
*Scripture references in bold are from Romans 12:1-8. The translation is taken from The Message.
Report of the Compass Task Force
Jim Schepers, Chairperson
During the spring of 2005 the Administrative Council approved an initiative to look at the future direction of our church and formed a group named the Compass Task Force to do this. The goal given to the Compass Task Force was to review and compare the makeup and culture of both our local community and our church and formulate a recommendation(s), within the boundaries of our Mission Statement and Vision, as to how we can make the greatest impact on the culture of our local community to help facilitate the growth of the Kingdom of God. The implementation of the recommendations and the goals set forth within them will be used to set the direction of our church for the next 5 to 10 years.
The first step was to establish a small core group (5-7 people) who would receive appropriate training for and be charged with developing a plan that identified the tasks, resources, budget, and schedule necessary for conducting the study. This group was appointed by the Chair of the Administrative Council (Bill Benson), Jim Schepers, and Rev. Barry Hidey and presented to the June 20, 2005 Administrative Council meeting. Ryan Burky, Debbie Englar, Pete Entner, Beth Lusky, Tony Pitrat, and Randy Wentsel all accepted the invitation to join the core group; Jim Schepers chairs the Task Force.
The initial effort to create a plan for conducting the study took approximately 7 months to accomplish. This process began with a summer reading program culminating in several days of training in September 2005. The planning effort then began, on a bi-weekly basis, into January 2006, culminating with a 1 and ½ day workshop presentation of the plan to the Administrative Council leaders at their January 2006 retreat. The study plan was then approved at the following Administrative Council meeting.
The Compass Task Force members began the organizing and education part of the plan in February 2006. During the late spring of 2006, the series of information gathering activities were initiated to take place over the summer, fall, and winter of 2006. Most of the information gathering activities have been completed and those remaining will be completed early in 2007.
Included in these studies were two professionally conducted studies that were performed in conjunction with the Percept Company to look at the ethographics (a combination of demographics, psychographics, praxiographics, and mediagraphics) of both our congregation and our surrounding local community. These two studies were conducted during the latter part of June using a 7.5 mile radius boundary for the local community part of the study. From the combined results of these two studies, we received both a detailed ministry area profile and a context report comparing our congregation to the people in our ministry area. Additional studies (some are still under way) include looking at best practices from other local churches, our facilities usage, finances, our ministries and missions, local outreach and support organizations within our community and current trends within both the secular and religious culture.
The Task Force is currently reviewing and analyzing the information from the studies and preparing materials for presentation at the February 2007 Administrative Council Retreat.
BOARD OF TRUSTEES REPORT
Prepared by Sandy Miller, Past President
The 2006 Board of Trustees had a busy year!
The largest item of business was the sale of the Vermont Parsonage to Rev. and Mrs. Barry Hidey on November 1, 2006 .
The following is a list of other items accomplished:
● Roof repaired over Prayer Chapel and Narthex by Bel Air Foam Insulation.
● McComas Hall exterior door replaced; door by loading dock repaired.
● Sound barriers erected in McComas Hall.
● New scaffolding purchased for use in Sanctuary and McComas Hall.
● All exterior windows at Linwood washed by commercial vendor.
● Blinds purchased for Youth Center and Assembly Room.
● Tile flooring replaced old carpeting in four rooms used by Tiny Tots and Children’s Christian Center .
● Closet constructed for Children’s Christian Center on lower level.
● Screens in Sanctuary proposed; approved November 2006.
● Energy costs reviewed; eventual move to new vendor for electricity.
● New heating maintenance contract awarded to Johnson Controls.
● Stones placed at Linwood Circle and at Mt. Carmel Chapel.
● Doors refinished at Mt. Carmel Chapel.
● Three Eagle Scout projects presented and overseen.
● Rev. Jack Carlson given permission to use The Homestead for counseling.
● Recycling container(s) approved for Zimbabwe Mission project.
● Policies reviewed and revised for use of church truck.
● Fireproof file cabinets secured for Church Office and Archiving Initiative.
● Constant communication with Constellation Energy re: boiler.
● Insurance reviewed and revised as needed.
● Several building/health department/elevator inspections made; all items corrected as necessary.
● Investment Advisory Committee met re: various investments.
Just a reminder… A number of people in our congregation have difficulty being around “scents” – so please be considerate of those who worship around you and don’t put on perfume or after-shave when you come to church. It may smell good to you and others, but it can cause congestion, headaches, and asthma attacks for others.
Inclement Weather Policy
The church will follow Harford County Public School closing procedures. If schools are closed for the day or close early, or if evening school activities are canceled, all meetings/activities at the church are canceled. The Church Office will be open, if possible. Please call the Church Office (410-838-5181, ext. 11) for updated information. Approved by Board of Trustees on November 12, 2001
Note: The Children’s Christian Center has its own Snow Policy. Call their answering machine at 410-420-8304 for instructions.
2007 ADMINISTRATIVE COUNCIL
usually meets on 4th Mondays
*indicates Staff
Chairperson – Bill Benson (2007)
Secretary – Jen Evans (2010)
Committee Chairs
President, Board of Trustees
Rick Schulte
Chair, Finance Committee
Barry Miller
Chair, Staff-Parish Relations Committee
George Newberry
Lay Leader
Janet Newberry
Administrative Representatives
Treasurer
Sandy Conway
Lay Members to Annual Conference
Art Benson
Gloria Benson
Cindy Caldwell
Elaine Crowe
Bob Phillips
President, United Methodist Women
Amy Adkins
Chair, Tiny Tots School Board
Becky Burky
Chair, Children’s Christian Center Board
Andrea Richie
Church & Society – Robert Vestal
Missions – John Krajewski
Members At Large
Class of 2009
Linda Vinciguerra
Darryl Shank
Class of 2008
Doug Pratt
Libby Maenner
Jay Wohnlich
Class of 2007
Pete Entner
Angie Wilson
Evan Vinciguerra
Non-Voting Positions
Chair, Altar Guild - Phyllis Bradley
Scouting Representative - Bob Young
Memorials Secretary - Irene Littleton
Membership Secretary - Audrey Tolston
Secretary, Lay Leadership Committee - Sue Shank
Ministry Leaders
Legacy Committee – Jim Paradise
Library Committee – Paul Lusky
Off-Site Ministry Team – Jay Wohnlich
Russian Outreach - Carol McCormack
Volunteers In Mission (VIM) - Tony Vinciguerra
Chabadza Zimbabwe Medical Team - Dave Talbot
Manna House – Lee Lederer
Divorce Care – Ted Whittock
GriefShare – Denise McGhee & Lee Lederer
GRACE Team/Grief Support – Susan Rate
Parish Nurses – Velma Sherwood & Lynn Betzold
The Recovery Connection – Patrice Dirican
Shepherd Ministry – Chip Newhart
Stephen Ministry – Connie McNey
Men’s Fellowship – Geoff Douglass & Gary Johnson
TINY TOTS SCHOOL BOARD
Chair – Becky Burky (2009)
Vice Chair – Les Goodwin (2007)
Treasurer – Al Roberty (2008)
Secretary –________________
Member At Large – Vicki Seitzinger (2008)
Director, Christian Education - Joni Behrendt*
Director, Tiny Tots School - Joan Elloff*
CHILDREN’S CHRISTIAN CENTER BOARD
Chair – Andrea Richie (2008)
Vice Chair – Normajean Boyd (2007)
Treasurer – Bill Groseclose (2009)
Secretary – Carol Benson (2008)
Member At Large – John Cavanaugh (2007)
Director, Christian Education - Joni Behrendt*
Director, CCC - Anjanette Jacobs*
BOARD OF TRUSTEES Class of 2007 Class of 2008 Class of 2009 Mt. Carmel Cemetery Manager |
FINANCE COMMITTEE Class of 2007 Lay Member to Annual Conference |
STAFF-PARISH RELATIONS COMMITTEE Class of 2007 |
LAY LEADERSHIP COMMITTEE Class of 2007 Class of 2008 Lay Leader Representative |
LIBRARY COMMITTEE
Chair – Paul Lusky
Class of 2008
Debbie Heath
Paul Lusky
Class of 2007
Lois Entner
Jean Hill
Class of 2009
Jeanne Ward
THE ASBURY GUILD
The Asbury Guild was formed in 1934 to provide many gifts of love which enrich the lives of the residents requiring assisted living and nursing care in the Asbury communities at Asbury Methodist Village in Gaithersburg and Asbury-Solomons Island. Guild members give of their time volunteering, working on special projects, managing the gift shops, and establishing on-going relationships with residents who may have no other family members with which to share their lives. The Guild hosts monthly birthday parties and holiday parties. Our Baltimore-Harford District supplies gifts for residents who have birthdays in September and October. We also supply many Christmas gifts each year.
The Asbury Guild asks you to give $3 or more per year as membership dues. It is through these dues that many benefits have been received by Asbury and the residents. Since 1961, the Guild has raised more than $2,750,000 to pay for the third floor of the Health Care Center, the Guild Chapel, automatic doors at two buildings, a 21-passenger bus, sponsored trips off campus, and gives $20,000 yearly to the Benevolent Fund.
Your representative for the Asbury Guild is Elaine Crowe, who is also President of the Baltimore-Harford District of the Guild. There are Asbury envelopes available in the pew racks and at the Welcome Center for you to use in giving your membership or other donations. Be sure to write your name and address on the envelope. Envelopes can be placed in the offering plate on Sunday mornings between now and March 11 or given directly to Elaine Crowe.
To find out more about Asbury, you can call the Marketing Office at 301-216-4100 or 1-800-327-2879 or visit their website at www.asbury.org.
TRC The Recovery Connection
The mission statement of The Recovery Connection is:
Bel Air United Methodist Church will provide support for the addiction sufferer and his or her family, education for the congregation and community, and a program of prevention in an open, caring atmosphere to help provide spiritual recovery from addiction.
TEAM MEMBER PROFILE: Patrice Dirican
Patrice is a 40 year old and the mother of Adam, 6, whom she stayed at home to raise, leaving her full-time job as a political and feature reporter for Patuxent Publishing Company, a Maryland-based chain of community newspapers that includes The Columbia Flyer, Towson Times, and The Jeffersonian. Now that Adam is in school all day, she has returned to work 3 days a week as a copy editor and headline writer for Patuxent.
Patrice says, in hindsight, that her years as a stay-at-home mom were among the most challenging times in her life. It was during this time that personal issues with addiction and the underlying problems she had – depression, anxiety, and a diagnosis of Attention Deficit Disorder from her own early childhood – came to the forefront of her life. With little extended family to offer support and a husband busy in his career, Patrice says she struggled to cope with the isolation and demands of being a stay-at-home mom.
But through this “bottom,” after which she eventually got effective treatment for her psychological problems and the ADD, Patrice says she came to the profound realization of her need for God. She began attending services at Bel Air UMC at the repeated suggestion of church member Donna Stuff and started on her way to building the relationship with God that had desperately been lacking in her life.
Once on this new spiritual path, Patrice says she came to understand that she needed a more direct way of dealing with the unhealthy attachments in her life, particularly using food as a way to dull the pain. As a result, she joined the 12-step program Overeaters Anonymous last year and has so far lost half of the weight she gained when she was at home raising her child.
Why did she join The Recovery Connection Ministry? “I believe addiction – that is unhealthy attachments to those things that dull our perceptions of reality and allow us to deny what is really going on in our lives – is an insidious epidemic that attacks a person physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. I hope I can contribute in some small way to lessen people’s fears in talking about their often secret battles with addiction and help those suffering and their families find the help they need.”
Addiction and Recovery Education Series
Meetings are held on the last Monday of the month at 7:00 PM in the Youth Center . Refreshments are served.
#5 February 26, 2007
What Are the Effects of Alcohol and Drugs on Your Body ?
Donna Allen, R.N., Father Martin’s Ashley
#6 March 26, 2007
A Closer Look at the Disease of Addiction
Micki Thomas, C.A.C., Counselor, Homecoming Project
#7 April 30, 2007
Round Table Discussion: How, When, and Why to Intervene on Addiction in the Family
The Recovery Connection Ministry Team
SPRING FORTH RENEWED
Women’s Tea and Entertainment
Saturday, March 24, 2007
2:00 – 4:00 PM
in McComas Hall
Silent Teapot Auction
Benefits BAUMC Scholarship Fund
Afternoon Tea Attire – Hats a Must!
Tickets: $15.00
For sale on Sundays at the Welcome Center
or call Leslie at 410-836-5664
(open to all gentle ladies age 12 & above)
We would like to borrow china for this event. If you have the following, please contact Cheryl Firth (call 410-838-5181, ext. 18, or e-mail firthc@baumc.com). Items will need to be delivered to Church Office between March 8 and March 19.
China : 8 cups and saucers, 8 dessert plates, 2 sauce dishes, sugar holder, creamer
Silverware: 8 dessert forks, 8 teaspoons, 8 knives, 1 butter knife
Tiered Servers: We need 25, so whatever you can lend.
COUPLE’S SEMINAR
Friday, March 2, 2007 ● 7:00-9:00 PM
Spiritual Foundation in Marriage
Kathy Gerstner, a Counselor with Safe Harbor Christian Counseling Services
Saturday, March 3, 2007 ● 9:00 AM-1:00 PM
What Is Marriage?
Jerry & Sylvia Taylor, Family & Couple Therapy Services
Cost: $30 per couple
RSVP by February 26, 2007
by calling 410-838-5181, ext. 18
SCHOLARSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
Baltimore-Washington Conference Scholarship
The 2007-2008 college scholarship application is available on the Conference website, www.bwcumc.org. Applications may be completed on-line or downloaded and mailed or delivered. They must be postmarked by March 12 or handcarried to the Conference Center by March 16. Late applications will not be accepted. Mail or carry to Baltimore-Washington Conference, 7178 Columbia Gateway Drive , Suite D, Columbia , MD 21046 .
Bel Air UMC Scholarship
Attention High School Seniors! Scholarship applications will be available on March 1. All information must be in the Church Office by 4:00 PM on April 18.
Christian Camp for Deaf/Blind Adults
For the 9th year, the Baltimore-Washington Conference is offering a Christian Camp for deaf/blind adults who are for the most part low income and largely unchurched. The camp includes worship, Bible class, crafts, swimming, boating, massage therapy, programs on technology, games, dancing, bowling, and a field trip. The cost of each camper is $225. Sponsors are greatly needed. If you are interested in providing a full or partial sponsorship, please make your check payable to Bel Air UMC and mark it for Deaf/Blind Camp. If you have questions, contact Rev. Peggy Johnson at RevPink@aol.com or call the Church Office.
Faith Communities and Civic Agencies United, Inc.
During the past year, we have been truly blessed to see God at work in the lives of our clients and the growth of our ministry programs. The Welcome One Emergency Shelter in Riverside and the Welcome One Fellowship Center in Edgewood have experienced change, growth, and the incredible love and blessings of God our Father. Our clients represent not only the homeless population but also those who are poor, jobless, lonely, and in need of fellowship. We provide them with shelter that is safe, food, fellowship, and – most importantly – an opportunity to learn about God’s love and His redemption through His Son, Jesus Christ. Quite simply, we could not do what we do without the help of warm-hearted, generous, and dedicated congregations such as yours.
In 1 Corinthians 13, Paul talks about the importance of love, and in verse 13 he tells us: “And now these three remain: faith, hope, and love. But the greatest of these is love.” (NIV) Love supersedes all other gifts. Agape, from the Greek, is a selfless concern for the welfare of others. It is like Christ’s love manifested on the cross. So, putting smiles on the faces of our clients, letting them know that they are loved, and giving them new hope for their lives – this is what we must be about; we are all part of the family of God. We ask for your continued support and prayers as we move toward the challenges and miracles in store for us.
Homelessness is a word that most people are not comfortable with, let alone acknowledge that the problem actually exists. Well, it does, and the way our society seems to deal with this problem is to ignore it. This is mainly due to fear itself. My own experience with homelessness was somewhat limited until recently. A friend had invited me to the worship service at Bel Air United Methodist Church , and I felt welcome because the people were friendly and warm. I attended a few more services at Bel Air after my first visit, and when I found out that the church was involved in the rotating shelter for the homeless, I couldn’t wait to get involved and help out in some way.
When I worked for the government, I used to travel all over the world. When I found out that the shelters need those little shampoos and soaps they use in hotel rooms, I started collecting them by the bag full. It didn’t take long to get a few bags filled, so I turned them over to a co-worker who in turn took them to a shelter in Baltimore City . I still felt like I wasn’t doing enough; I wanted to do more. I’d often thought about helping at the Baltimore shelter during the holidays. I never did, because one thing or another would get in the way. So, when I heard someone at the church talking about needing volunteers for the rotating shelter, I quickly got on board and signed up. I spoke with a few people at the church who had volunteered for the shelter in the past, and they all expressed that it was a life-changing experience for them and it seems to have had a profound impact on their lives. I still wasn’t sure what to expect or how to interact with a homeless person. Even though I spoke to many people who had experience in dealing with the homeless, I was still scared and way out of my comfort zone.
The only personal experience I had with the homeless was what I saw on the streets of Baltimore City . Some held signs for food, some sat on the sidewalk or leaned up against a building with nothing more than a duffle bag, and others just asked for money as you passed them on the street. Oh, I heard all the typical warnings about the homeless: they steal, they lie, the money you give them goes for drugs, they put themselves in that position, they chose this way of life, and they have more money than most working class people. I think some of those things are true to a certain extent. I know they have fallen on hard times and just bottomed out. It’s hard for some people to rise when they have been beaten down. I have seen the way our society treats homeless people in Baltimore City . They pass by a homeless person and pretend not to see them. It’s not that those people passing by are bad people; they are just scared and tired of being used by others. Our society has the “me, myself, and I” concept. We don’t like it, but that’s the way it is. I’m sure the homeless person has the same idea. For most of us, this mentality is just a matter of getting through our busy day. For the homeless, it’s a matter of survival.
I did become a volunteer for the rotating homeless shelter last year, and for me, it truly was a life-changing experience. I got over my fear and learned a lot. There are plenty of things I didn’t know or even expect. I went in with preconceived ideas and notions and came out with the truth. In fact, I enjoyed it so much I became the Shelter Coordinator for Bel Air United Methodist Church . I am glad I got involved, because I would hate to have gone through life and never stepped out of my comfort zone. The Lord put us here to help each other, especially those in need. The homeless may be down, but God hasn’t counted them out!
Our next volunteer week at the homeless shelter is February 27 through March 5. We need volunteers, and we need someone to coordinate meals. If you can help in any way, please contact Elizabeth (Libby) Horn at 443-417-3660.
PASS IT ON MINISTRY REPORT FOR 2006
Because of the generosity of our congregation, we were able to help 522 families with over $13,000 to prevent them from being evicted and having their gas and electricity turned off. We also furnished temporary housing for the homeless and helped with other special needs. In addition, we gave out 497 bags of groceries. We greatly appreciate the outpouring you have shown. God Bless all of you!
Anne Brown, Alice Humphrey, Bobbie Whitlock
How Can I Help?
► The Casserole Ministry sponsors a monthly party at Let’s Dish. The Let’s Dish team prepares all the ingredients for some really great recipes, and then you show up and put everything together for meals for your family. The meals can be frozen and then used on a hectic day or for a special occasion. Let’s Dish provides a $20 discount for Bel Air UMC participants and an additional dish for our Casserole Ministry. The next party will be on Wednesday, March 7 at 5:30 PM . Go to their website www.letsdish.com for more information and to register (follow the prompts for our church, using party as the password and methodist-07 as the promo code). For more information or questions, contact Vicki Seitzinger at 410-569-4821 or e-mail vicki.seitzinger@verizon.net. Of course, if you want to prepare a casserole “the old fashioned way,” we can provide empty casserole pans!
► Our Counting Teams need additional members. You would be on an 8-week rotation to count the weekly offerings. Training will be provided. If you can help, please call Bev Jenkins at 410-879-6850.
► Truck Drivers are needed for trips to Appalachia . The church truck is used about six times per year to deliver food, furniture, household items, toys, and other necessities for our Appalachian Ministry. Trips take about 18-20 hours round trip, with an overnight stay along I-81. Two members of the church will share driving. Qualified drivers must have a valid driver’s license and a clean driving record. Truck driving experience is preferred, and proper training will be provided. If you can help to support this ministry, please contact John Clayton at 410-638-8381.
► Singing Volunteers – Come join us at the BAUMC Sing-A-Long at Bel Air Health & Rehab Center on the first Thursday of each month from 5:45-7:30 PM . Help is needed to wheel residents to and from their rooms, turn pages, sing hymns and old-time songs. No singing talent required – just a willing spirit, the ability to smile and to share God’s love with others. Contact Wilson Gorrell at 410-838-7651 or Dave Candey at 410-420-3830.
► VIM Trip to Louisiana – The Volunteers In Mission are planning another mission trip to Louisiana , with the youth, during the week of June 17-23. If you are interested in going on this trip, contact Tony Vinciguerra at 410-893-9828 or e-mail tlvincig@clearviewcatv.net.
► Cat’s Meow Cutouts of both the Linwood building and Mt. Carmel Chapel are available to support Habitat’s FaithWorks 2 project. The cost is $18 each. Stop by the Church Office.
HELP WANTED
► Weekend Custodian – Saturday & Sunday afternoon/evening, approximately 16 hours per weekend. Moderate lifting required. Previous commercial cleaning experience preferred. Contact Jim Schepers at 410-838-5181, ext. 38. Applications are available at the Church Office.
► Group Leaders for Children’s Christian Center – Needed for before and after school program to work with children 5-12 years of age. Must have 45 hour school age certification or three college courses in education or psychology. Contact Anjanette Jacobs at 410-420-8304 for more information or to apply.
♥ January Results… Our Blood Drive on January 8, 2007 netted 46 units of blood. We extend our sincere thanks to everyone who came out to support the drive.
♥ Next Drive … The next Blood Drive at the church will be on Monday, March 12, from 9:30 AM to 8:00 PM . Time slots for appointments can be made in advance on the signup sheet across from the Church Office.
♥ “No Shows”… The signup sheet for appointments plays an important role not only for donors, but also for the Red Cross. The Red Cross uses the information to plan sufficient staffing throughout the drive. While walk-in donors are accepted, appointments are preferred to help ensure the staff will be large enough for the volume of donors. On the other hand, a large number of “no shows” results in excessive staffing that could perhaps have been allocated to other donor locations. The number of “no shows” sometimes adds up to a sizeable amount (for example, 15 at our most recent drive). We realize that illnesses, work demands, and other changes occur that can force an unavoidable change in plans. When changes become necessary, we request that the change be annotated on the signup sheet (if known in advance) or that a message be left at the Church Office for the Blood Drive Team.
TINY TOTS SCHOOL NEWS from Joan Elloff, Director
Our Tiny Tots counted down the days until Jesus’ birthday on their Advent calendars and then enthusiastically entertained family and friends during their Christmas programs in mid December. Hats and mittens were collected for the needy, and canned goods were collected for Manna House. The Tiny Tots School also sponsored another successful “Holiday Stop & Shop” event.
The 3 year old classes started the new year by learning about the color blue, the number 5, and rectangles. The community helper was the mailman, and the theme for the month is “He is always there to help in times of trouble.” The 4 year olds started their alphabet books with the letters A through G. They studied the country of Mexico and jazz in music appreciation. The religious theme for the month was “faith and trust,” using the story of Noah as our example. We are also working on the Pledge of Allegiance and learning our full name, address, and telephone number.
In February, the 3 year old nursery school is learning about the color purple, the number 6, and the shape of the month is a heart. The dentist will be visiting as our community helper. The theme for the month is “friends,” as we celebrate Valentine’s Day. Because February is the month of “love,” our 4 year old classes will learn that Jesus loves us and how we should love one another. We will visit Japan , and a mailman and a dentist will visit our classrooms. We’ll certainly have “Fun in February”!
Tiny Tots School still has a few openings in the Nursery and Pre-K classes for 2007-2008. If you are interested or need more information, please call 410-838-6399 (Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM-3:00 PM ).
Our Church Family,
A long overdue thanks to you all. Frank feels so much a part of the church. He reads all the material I get as the mail comes in. We do give thanks to God and our church for the needs you have kindly met. We are taking one day at a time, as the gift of God has been given. God is good! Again, thank you for the uplifting cards, food, calls, just everything. I love you all and miss being with you. As the Lord leads, so go I. Praise the Lord!
Elaine & Frank Smith
Dear Friends,
I want to thank everyone for their prayers, cards, and the beautiful poinsettia on the death of my husband and my sister. Your thoughtfulness is truly appreciated during a very sorrowful time for our family.
Sincerely,
Marion Anderson and Family
Dear Friends,
Thank you so much for your kindness during the loss of our son. It is wonderful to know how caring the members of the church have been to us. We would also like to express our appreciation for the beautiful poinsettia from the church. Both of us will always remember how much you were there for us during our sorrow.
Albert & Virginia Becker
Bel Air United Methodist Church
SUNDAY WORSHIP SERVICES
8:00 a.m. (Communion), 9:20 & 11:00 a.m. in Linwood Sanctuary
7:00 p.m. Evening Worship at Mt. Carmel Chapel
MORNING FELLOWSHIP in McComas Hall – 9:00-11:15 a.m.
CHURCH OFFICE Who You Should Call: Please Call the Church Office: For the Prayer Chain: |
BAUMC ON-LINE...
The SPIRE is posted on our webpage at www.baumc.com.
The e-Spire, a weekly update of information, devotions, upcoming events and activities, and a printout of the previous week’s sermon, is distributed via e-mail (usually on Fridays). If you would like to receive the e-Spire, please send your e-mail address to info@baumc.com. If you do not have e-mail and would like to read the e-Spire, copies are available at the Welcome Center .
Here are the e-mail addresses for the church staff. Please use these addresses for information, announcements, prayer concerns, etc. Use e-mail for any questions you have or to sign up for any church activities.
Archer, Alice archera@baumc.com
Behrendt, Joni behrendtj@baumc.com
Caldwell , Cindy caldwellc@baumc.com
Firth, Cheryl firthc@baumc.com
Groseclose, Bill grosecloseb@baumc.com
Groseclose, Rev. Peggy groseclosep@baumc.com
Hidey, Rev. Barry hideyb@baumc.com
Hodges, Tom hodgest@baumc.com
Hollida, Rev. Doug hollidad@baumc.com
Jones, Judy jonesj@baumc.com
Schepers, Jim schepersj@baumc.com
Wolf, Lisa Wong wolfl@baumc.com
Children’s Christian Center ccc@baumc.com
Tiny Tots School tinytots@baumc.com
Bishop – Rev. Dr. John R. Schol
District Superintendent - Rev. Dr. C. Anthony Hunt
Lead Minister - Rev. Barry Hidey
Associate Minister - Rev. Peggy Groseclose
Director of Worship & Arts – Rev. Doug Hollida
Director of Christian Education - Joni Behrendt
Director of Adult Discipleship - Cindy Caldwell
Director of Youth Ministries – Tom Hodges
Church Administrator - Jim Schepers
Bookkeeper – Bill Groseclose
Pastoral Administrative Assistant – Judy Jones
Office/Facility Coordinator - Alice Archer
Congregational Care Coordinator - Cheryl Firth
Membership/Data Base Coordinator – Lisa Wong Wolf
Building Superintendent/Custodial Supervisor – Don Sandefur
Custodians – Stephen Kenly, Thureen Drake, Keith Kennedy
Chair, Administrative Council – Bill Benson
Secretary, Administrative Council – Jen Evans
President, Board of Trustees – Rick Schulte
Chair, Finance Committee – Barry Miller
Chair, Staff-Parish Relations – George Newberry
Secretary, Lay Leadership Committee – Sue Shank
Lay Leader – Janet Newberry
SPIRE SCHEDULE:
Deadline
March 2007 Sunday, February 25
April 2007 Sunday, March 25
May 2007 Wednesday, April 25
June 2007 Sunday, May 27
SPIRE Editor - Alice Archer
SPIRE Mailing - Sandy and Palmer Paules
SPIRE Circulation - Bruce Allen, Margaret Browning, Shirley Cooney, Elaine Crowe, Sue and Bob Gillette, Nellie Graybeal, Betty Hartsock, Jean Henderson, Garner Jones, Elsie Kaste, LeRoy Knepper, Jane Knode, Auleen and Ed Leister, Irene Littleton, Shirley MacLean, Wayne and Jane Mason, Jean Moore, Dorothy Panowitz, Nancy Paris, Shirley and John Renshaw, Doris Scholl, Ruth Smithson, Bette Stancill, Audrey Tolston, Carole Vangrin, Linda Vinciguerra, Marguerite Ward
PANCAKE & SAUSAGE SUPPER
Sponsored by the Music Ministry
Tuesday, February 20, 2007
5:00-7:00 PM in McComas Hall
Tickets will be sold at the door. The cost is $7 for adults, $5 for children age 5-12, and free for children age 4 and under.
Services on Wednesday, February 21, 2007
12:00 Noon & 7:00 PM in the Sanctuary
YOUTH MINISTRY FUNDRAISING FAMINE
Friday, February 16 ● 7:00-10:00 PM
Fundraising Famine Kick-Off
Come and find out the why and the how about the upcoming 18-Hour Famine (that means not eating food for 18 hours!) and pickup your fundraising form. We’ll have some fun, games, and karaoke in McComas Hall, as well as great food and prize giveaways.
Friday, March 30 -- Saturday, March 31
18-Hour Famine Lock-In
The lock-in will be overnight – 7:00 PM to 7:00 AM . On Saturday morning, the youth will enjoy a free breakfast provided by Chick-Fil-A, then help setup tables for the Spring Bazaar & Craft Show. Contact Tom Hodges at 410-838-5181, ext. 16, for more information about the 18-Hour Famine Lock-In.
Saturday, March 31 ● 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Spring Bazaar & Craft Show
If you would like to participate as a vendor, the price is $25 per table. Please contact Donna Muszynski at 410-557-4348 or 443-866-5792 to reserve your space. Proceeds will benefit the Zimbabwe Medical Clinic and the Pass It On Ministry (which provides food and utility payment assistance).