Opportunities - Minnetonka UMC
| |
|Opportunities |
|Minnetonka United Methodist Church |
|17611 Lake Street Extension, Minnetonka, MN 55345 |
|952-474-4114 |
| |
|minnetonkaumc@ |
• For Fellowship
• For Personal Growth
• For Service
|In this document you will find some of Minnetonka United Methodist Church’s many opportunities for personal growth, fellowship and service. We|
|encourage you to review this booklet and consider how/where you might get involved. |
|One-time opportunities that become available from time to time are not included in this booklet. They are publicized in the Sunday bulletin |
|and the monthly newsletter (both are available online at ). |
|updated November 10, 2015 |
Table of Contents
Opportunities for Fellowship: pages 2-3
Opportunities for Personal Growth: pages 4-7
Opportunities for Service: pages 8-23
• Ministries, Committees and Teams: pages 8-12
• Projects and Volunteering: pages 13-23
How to Reach a Contact Person
To obtain phone numbers for the contact persons listed, see the Church Directory (copies are available in Fellowship Hall) or call the church office at 952-474-4114.
Location, Date and Time Information
Please check with the contact person or the church office to verify the date, time, and location of the activity, as these may change. Unless specified otherwise, all groups meet and all activities take place at the church. A daily list of activities with their times and locations is posted on the office and main entrance doors.
How to Get Help with Finding a Good Fit for Yourself
Contact Person: Judy Fallat
MUMC’s Gifts-Oriented Ministry (GOM) Program has developed a tool called the PERSONAL PROFILE to assist individuals with identifying their personal characteristics—talents, skills, experience, natural interests, things they care deeply about, preferences for work types, roles, and people interaction, and their current life situation. It is available on the church’s website at , on the first bulletin board on the right side of Fellowship Hall, and from the church office. If you like, a GOM member will meet with you at your request to review your profile and help you explore opportunities that would be a good fit for you.
Opportunities for Fellowship
CAREGIVERS SUPPORT GROUP Contact: Katie Childress
More and more we find ourselves in this role – helping with aging parents, serious illness, challenging children and grandchildren, and/or friends who just need a ready ear to listen. This group gathers to share experiences, questions, and suggestions concerning the challenges and blessings of being a caregiver. Contact Katie for specifics on dates and times.
CHRISTMAS ALL-CHURCH EVENT Contact: Judy Sunderland
Frequency: Annually Date & Time: Early December
The Christmas dinner is a wonderful time of fun and fellowship and a great way to get to know more members of our church family. It is generally a catered event with opportunities to volunteer on the planning committee, hosting a table, making an appetizer/dessert, or helping out by being part of the clean-up crew. Childcare, special activities and food for the children are provided.
Ladies Card Playing Group Contact: Karen Malmstrom
Frequency: Weekly Date & Time: Thursday at 9:30 am
The card playing ladies meet year-round to play variations of Hand and Foot. Don’t worry if you don’t know the game, you’ll be shown how to play and paired with a partner. It’s a fun way to get to know others in a wonderfully supportive environment. On the last Thursday of the month the group meets at 9:00 am to assemble the MUMC newsletter.
LENTEN SOUP SUPPERS Contact: Judy Sunderland
Frequency: Weekly during Lent Date & Time: Wednesday at 5:30 pm
Soup Suppers are offered in place of the regular Wednesday night dinner during Lent. People are asked to sign up to bring a soup, bread, or dessert to share. Each of these evenings has a short program regarding a mission project or other important happenings in the life of MUMC for which a free will offering is collected. There is no other cost for the meal. (See also Wednesday All-Church Dinners.)
LUNCH BUNCH Contact: Eileen Jensen
Frequency: Monthly Date & Time: 4th Wednesday
Women of the church gather to have lunch at local restaurants each month. The restaurant names, and other details, are published in the Sunday Bulletin two weeks prior to the outing. If you are planning to attend, call Eileen Jensen (or Carolyn Oakman some months) so that an accurate reservation can be made at the restaurant. Carpooling is available from the church as needed, and volunteer drivers are always appreciated. The mission of the group is to build lasting and caring friendships between long-time and new members of the church.
MEN’S BREAKFAST GROUP Contact: Harly Hagmann
Frequency: Monthly Date & Time: 2nd Friday at 8:00 am
Men of the church meet in the Lafayette Club dining room (enter the door nearest to the parking lot on the east end of the clubhouse). The group is an informal fellowship of men of faith (and occasionally women too) who share conversation about issues of the day in society, community, and church. They provide friendship, support, encouragement, affirmation, and understanding for each other. Breakfast is by individual order and the cost ranges from $7.50 - $15. No advance sign-up is necessary. Some people share rides.
Opportunities for Fellowship continued
MEN’S NIGHT OUT Contact: Bill Lurth
Frequency: Twice a year Date & Time: Varies
Events are scheduled for men twice a year, like bocce ball in January of 2016 and indoor golf in April of 2016. The activities happen at MUMC. Information is posted in the newsletter and in the Sunday bulletin. A sign-up sheet is posted in Fellowship Hall. Signing up is helpful, but not required.
SEASONAL FAMILY FESTIVALS Contact: Haley Mathison
Frequency: Four times a year Date & Time: Varies
The Children’s Ministry Team puts on four events each year:
• Easter Egg Hunt (between services on Easter Sunday)
• Vacation Bible School (see also Vacation Bible School under Opportunities for Personal Growth)
• Family Fall Festival (games, crafts, activities, and snack with a Halloween theme and a costume parade)
• Advent Festival (games, crafts, activities, and a snack with a Christmas/Advent Theme)
See the newsletter and the Sunday bulletin for more information.
UMW SPRING EVENT Contact: Michelle Rayle, Melinda Kohrt
Frequency: Annually Date & Time: Early May
Each spring the United Methodist Women (UMW) host an event that everyone is invited to attend. Past events have included a Cinco de Mayo luncheon and brunches with special speakers.
WEDNESDAY ALL-CHURCH DINNERS Contact: Judy Sunderland
Frequency: Weekly September - May Date & Time: Wednesday from 5:30 – 6:15 pm
Dinner is offered each week during the school year prior to the Wednesday night programming (Adventure Club for the children, confirmation, adult studies, and chancel choir). This is a great opportunity to share a meal and get to know others in the community of faith. The meal costs $6 for adults, $4 for children ages 4-12, and children age 3 and under are free (total family maximum $20 per evening). The meal is catered and advance sign-up is required. (See also Lenten Soup Suppers.)
YOUTH ACTIVITIES & PROJECTS Contact: Haley Mathison, Loretta Dunn
Frequency: Irregular Date & Time: Varies
A variety of activities are offered for youth in grades 6-12. Things like Bible studies, mission trips, fundraisers, service projects, games, youth fellowship activities and events. The youth provide service to others by volunteering for Feed My Starving Children, working with younger children in the Sunday school program, assisting with the UMW Rummage Sale, pitching in during the MUMC Fall Clean-up, collecting items for Avenues for Homeless Youth, and fundraising for the Mission trip. E-mail is the primary mode of communication for all youth events. Events are also listed in the newsletter, Sunday bulletin, twitter, text, and the website.
Opportunities for Personal Growth
ADULT EDUCATION OFFERINGS Contact: Pastor Tiffany McDonald
Date & Time: Periodically throughout the year; some year-round and some 6-8 week classes
MUMC offers a variety of small groups and classes, which are led by volunteers or staff. Occasionally there is an all-church study that is taught by many volunteers. Studies are announced in September and throughout the year.
ADULT EDUCATION ON WEDNESDAY EVE Contact: Pastor Tiffany McDonald
Frequency: Weekly September - May Date & Time: Wednesday at 6:30 pm
Pastor Tiffany and volunteers lead this group. A variety of short term studies (4-8 weeks) are used, often with no preparation required. Each class lasts 60-90 minutes.
ADVENTURE CLUB Contact: Haley Mathison
Frequency: Weekly September - May Date & Time: Wednesday from 6:30 – 7:30 pm
Adventure Club is an adventurous time for children in Kindergarten through 6th grade with an array of Bible stories, activities, and crafts. No registration is required, but each child needs to have a green ‘Sunday School Registration Form’ filled out for them, which can be done when they arrive.
BROWN BAG STUDY GROUP Contact: Judy Sunderland
Frequency: Weekly Date & Time: Monday from noon to 1:15 pm
This group meets year-round to do a variety of multi-week studies related to faith. Judy Sunderland leads the group, sometimes with video instruction. It’s a safe place to explore your beliefs and share in discussion where all are respectful of other’s views. There is usually a small amount of reading between classes. As the name implies, you are welcome to bring your lunch, or not, whichever you prefer. See the newsletter and the Sunday bulletin for current topics.
CONFIRMATION Contact: Pastor Jeanine Alexander, Haley Mathison, Loretta Dunn
Frequency: Weekly September - May Date & Time: Wednesday from 6:30 – 8:00 pm
Confirmation brings into focus one’s relationship with God and the church. It’s a time when young people recognize a new level of maturity in Christian faith and life as they acknowledge the call to continue to grow in faith and discover the meaning of discipleship as a lifelong journey. At MUMC Confirmation is a 2-year program for 7th and 8th graders (and older youth who haven’t been confirmed). It’s a time of education, worship, and fellowship combining class time, service opportunities, retreats, speakers, games, and fun. The 7th graders meet to study the basics of the Christian faith, our faith heritage, the United Methodist story, and the tools of the church. The class for 8th grade and older youth focuses on personal expressions of faith, church membership, and United Methodist History and Polity. Both classes then meet together from 7:30 to 8:00 pm for announcements, games, and group time. Confirmation students, and their families, are invited to eat at church on Wednesday nights. Dinner is served 5:30-6:15pm. This is a fun way for group bonding to happen.
MEN’S RETREAT Contact: Bill Lurth
Frequency: Annually Date & Time: October 30-31, 2015
A retreat for MUMC men is held annually at Koininia near Annandale, 45 miles west of the Twin Cities. Friends of congregation members are also welcome. There are several hours of serious discussion around some aspect of Spiritual life, such as the 2015 question "What does Evangelism mean to you?" The group also eats, plays, and generally has a good time. A signup sheet is posted in Fellowship Hall.
Opportunities for Personal Growth continued
MOM’S GROUP Contact: Pastor Tiffany McDonald, Lisa LaMothe
Frequency: Weekly September - May Date & Time: Thursday from 9:15 – 11:00 am
Mom’s group meets to offer conversation, support, and the occasional book study to women with young children. Free coffee and child care are provided. Infants are welcome to stay in the group or to attend child care. This group nurtures the faith of families with young children through sharing, study, and prayer.
SPIRITUAL JOURNEY DEVOTIONAL GROUP Contact: Cynthia Jung
Frequency: Weekly Date & Time: TBD by the participants
A group seeking further understanding of their beliefs and how to live them by using the daily readings from the Upper Room Disciplines and its associated scripture readings as a basis for study. The group is open to anyone, and all words and opinions are honored with respect. They meet for about one hour weekly at a place and time determined by the members. Leadership of sessions rotates among the attendees. It’s a great opportunity to form strong relationships while learning and growing in faith.
SUNDAY SCHOOL (K – 6th Grade) Contact: Haley Mathison
Frequency: Weekly Date & Time: Sunday at 9:00 am (K-5) and 10:45 am (K-6)
Sunday School is offered during both services year-round. During first service it is offered for grades K-5; during second service for grades K-6. Child and preschool care are also offered during both services. Parents/guardians need to fill out a green “Sunday School Registration Form,” which can be found on the Sunday School Check-In table located just outside of the nursery in the narthex area, or by asking Haley Mathison. The children begin in the sanctuary with their families and after the Children’s Message they go with their Shepherds to their designated classrooms. Preschool-aged children have fun learning about favorite Bible stories through a variety of activities and age-appropriate lessons. Grades K-6 discover the Bible through a variety of methods, including cooking, art, games, storytelling, media, mission and prayer. Parents pick their children up from the classroom after worship. Each month Sunday School has a different theme. Each church service has a different set of rotations. So, while the theme is the same, the instruction and the teachers are not the same. Kids are invited to come to Sunday School during either service, or even both! They do not have to be committed to one service or the other; whenever it works for their family is fine.
We also offer a special class for 5th and 6th graders during the 10:45 am service that focuses on deeper Bible learning, plus mission and service projects. The group stays in worship until the children are dismissed for Sunday School, then go with their teachers to the Youth Room downstairs.
UNIDOS EN CRISTO (UeC) SPIRITUAL RETREAT Contact: Judy Fallat
Frequency: Three times a year Date & Time: See kiosk in the narthex
UeC is a three day weekend designed to strengthen and renew the faith of people of all Christian denominations and bring them to a more active awareness of living in God’s grace. The retreat is held three times a year (Oct/Nov, Jan/Feb, Jun/Jul). See the kiosk in the narthex for dates and a brochure.
UMW GUEST SPEAKERS Contact: Melinda Kohrt, Michelle Rayle
Frequency: Irregular Date & Time: Varies
The United Methodist Women host guest speakers throughput the year. Examples of types of topics include domestic abuse, immigration, disability awareness, sex trafficking, and women’s health.
Opportunities for Personal Growth continued
UMW LYDIA CIRCLE Contact: Karen Malmstrom
Frequency: Monthly Date & Time: 4th Wednesday 9:30 – 11:00 am
Lydia Circle meets year-round. Volunteers from the group take turns facilitating programs on studies that are specifically designed for United Methodist Women using UMW-provided materials. Study topics can be focused on social issues, spirituality, or empowering women in certain geographic areas of the world. In 2015-16, using the book Latin America, People and Faith, the group will look at the culture, history, colonization and independent development of these countries.
UNITED METHODIST WOMEN MISSION U Contact: Melinda Kohrt, Joyce Nedbalek
Frequency: Annually Date & Time: July
Mission u is an annual educational event for those who want to open their minds to issues affecting women and children locally and around the world. It is also a time for spiritual growth. Held in July at St. John’s University in Collegeville, MN, Mission u offers a four-day event and also a Saturday event (for those with less time available). July 12-15, 2016 topics included The Bible and Human Sexuality, Climate Justice, and the People of Latin America.
VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL Contact: Haley Mathison
Frequency: Annually Date & Time: July 25-29, 2016
Vacation Bible School is held at MUMC from 9:00 am to noon for one week during the summer. It’s a special week filled with activities for children from 3 years of age to those entering 6th grade. Online registration and paper registrations are available in April.
WEDNESDAY NIGHT PROGRAMMING Contact: Church Office
Frequency: Weekly September – May Date & Time: Wednesdays
Family Dinner 5:30 – 6:15 pm (info on page 3)
Nursery & Preschool Childcare 6:30 – 7:30/8:00 pm (info on page 18)
Adventure Club (grades K-6) 6:30 – 7:30 pm (info on page 4)
Confirmation (grades 7-8) 6:30 – 8:00 pm (info on page 4)
Adult Study 6:30 – 7:30/8:00 pm (info on page 4)
Chancel Choir 6:45 – 8:00 pm (info on page 18)
WOMEN’S RETREAT (off-site location) Contact: Melinda Kohrt, Michelle Rayle
Frequency: Annually Date & Time: Spring
United Methodist Women’s retreats are opportunities for spiritual growth and fellowship for women. They are held in the spring and last either a single day or overnight. Members of MUMC and people from the community are invited to attend. Retreats are sometimes held in conjunction with nearby UMW groups. Watch for retreat details in the newsletter and in the Sunday bulletin.
YOGA FOR HEALTH Contact: Anne Kamiri
Frequency: Weekly Date & Time: Thursday from 4:00 – 5:00 pm
The yoga group meets year-round in the downstairs Multi-purpose Room, entering through the lower-level door at the south end of the building. It is vinyasa or flow yoga, where movement changes fluidly from one pose to the next as the leader offers verbal instructions and moves through the poses with the participants. It is suitable for all, from the beginner to the more advanced student. Each person can practice at their own level of ability and comfort, and the leader offers ways to modify poses for differing abilities. It does involve getting up from and down to the floor, so some participants choose to use a chair for support. Most of the participants are women, but men have come occasionally; the class is suitable for all. There is no fee and it is not necessary to attend every week.
YOUTH BIBLE STUDY Contact: Haley Mathison
Frequency: Weekly Date & Time: Sunday from 7:00 – 8:00 pm
Youth (ages 14-22) are invited to a Sunday night Bible study led by Haley Mathison. Each week the group reads through a chapter in the Gospels and talks about what that chapter tells us about our faith. This is a great place for youth to come and ask their questions and have a chance to dig into the Bible for themselves. No preparation is needed and all are welcome any week.
Opportunities to Serve
Ministries, Committees and Teams are listed first (pp. 8-12), followed by Projects and Volunteering (pp. 13-23).
Each item in this section includes a Work Type to help you determine which opportunities offer the type of work you enjoy.
Work Type Definitions
PROCESS typically involves strategizing, analyzing, planning, evaluating, and most often being on a committee or team. Process opportunities are listed under Ministries, Committees, and Teams.
PROJECT* means seeing something through from start to finish—planning, organizing, implementing and evaluating all aspects of a project
TASK* means hands-on work that does not include pre-planning and organizing either because it isn’t needed or because others have done it.
(HOME) appearing after a work type means that some or all of that work can be done at home, usually independently and on your own schedule. In some cases, it may be necessary to arrange for your work to be delivered to the church e.g., baked goods, shawls. Ask the contact person for details.
Some opportunities for working at home are named here for easy reference.
• Communications – Facebook Maintenance
• Communications – Newsletter Editor
• Communications – Website Maintenance and Writer
• Congregational Care – Note Writer and Phoning
• Hospitality – Making Desserts and Snacks
• Prayer Shawl Ministry
• Welcoming Committee – Visitor Follow-up
*Project and Task opportunities are listed under Projects and Volunteering starting on page 13 and some are mentioned also in the descriptions of some ministry teams.
Opportunities to Serve: Ministries, Committees, & Teams
BOARD OF TRUSTEES Contact: Ron Scheel
Work Type: Process Frequency: Monthly Date & Time: 1st Tuesday at 6:30 pm
The Board of Trustees oversees the care and maintenance of all real property owned by MUMC. They review the adequacy of insurance coverage on church-owned property, buildings, and equipment as well as personnel insurance. They conduct accessibility audits of the buildings, grounds, and facilities to identify any physical or communication barriers that might exist to limit full participation of people with disabilities and try to eliminate those barriers. Trustees should be people with knowledge and skills for property and asset management.
CARING FOR CREATION TEAM Contact: Phyllis Kerr, Dennis Yockers
Work Type: Process Frequency: Monthly Date & Time: 1st Tuesday at 7:00 pm
Through sustainable action this team seeks to promote care for creation in every part of the life and mission of the congregation. The team works with the Trustees on a comprehensive solid waste management plan, efficient energy usage, and native landscaping. The aim is to ensure that all activities within various teams of the church are sustainable. They educate the congregation through the newsletter and the Sunday bulletin. They also work with Minnesota Interfaith Power and Light, a group that provides opportunities for Minnesota congregations to join the growing climate justice movement. Volunteers can help with projects such as native landscaping and Earth Sunday in the spring.
CHILDREN’S MINISTRY PROGRAM TEAM Contact: Andi Bodeau, Tom Bodger
Work Type: Process Frequency: Monthly Date & Time: 1st Tuesday at 7:00 pm
The focus of this team is to nurture children in grades K-6 in an environment where we, as a congregation, help them learn about the love of God and the teachings of Jesus. The team is involved with Sunday School and Adventure Club staffing, the Fall Festival, the Advent program, Easter activities, and Vacation Bible School (VBS). Community outreach happens during VBS and through encouraging MUMC’s children to bring their friends to events likes the Fall Festival. Volunteers can help the committee on Sundays and during Wednesday evening Adventure Club by being teachers or shepherds. Volunteers can also assist with games, teach Bible stories, and help with cooking in the kitchen or with art/craft projects.
COMMITTEE ON NOMINATIONS & LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT (CNLD)
Contact: Pastor Jeanine Alexander, Jen Mein
Work Type: Process Frequency: Monthly Date & Time: Varies
This committee conducts and facilitates the nomination and invitation process for MUMC committees and ministry teams and resource groups. The committee encourages everyone to complete a Personal Profile so a good fit can be found for their interests and availability among the many opportunities to serve. The committee also provides leader orientation, supports the development and empowerment of church leaders, and conducts leader commissioning and appreciation activities. No previous experience or knowledge is necessary to serve on the CNLD, just an interest in helping others find opportunities to grow their spiritual leadership by matching people's gifts with opportunities. Active engagement at MUMC is helpful because through service, connections, and relationships one can witness the spiritual gifts of others.
Opportunities to Serve: Ministries, Committees & Teams continued
DOMESTIC ABUSE/VIOLENCE MINISTRY (DAVM) Contact: Joyce Nedbalek, Amy Schuler
Work Type: Process Frequency: Monthly Date & Time: 4th Tuesday at 7:30 pm
The DAVM is committed to supporting victims and to work for a society free from domestic abuse. Pastoral counseling is provided for victims and abusers by Pastor Jeanine Alexander. Confidential listening is available from members of the DAVM team as well as assistance to meet the victim's needs, such as shelter, counseling, advocacy services, and therapy programs. Reading material on the topic can be found at the Domestic Abuse Ministry bulletin board located on the far wall of the narthex seating area. Victims of domestic violence throughout Minnesota are recognized in the Sunday bulletin. The group also actively participates in the Clothesline Project and the "Live Free without Violence" flag campaign. They support Sojourner Project (the local shelter), and host special events to educate and work toward stopping domestic abuse and violence. In addition, there are members of a small extended team who are called upon for one-time projects and are encouraged to attend DAVM meetings whenever items of interest to them are on the agenda.
FINANCE COMMITTEE Contact: Kent Mein
Work Type: Process Frequency: Monthly Date & Time: 3rd Tuesday at 6:00 pm
The Finance Committee provides oversight of the church’s finances, does budget planning, and makes financial recommendations to the Church Council. To serve on this team it is helpful to know what a balance sheet looks like and to have some previous financial experience, although the only true requirement is a willingness to serve. This is a great opportunity for people who would like to contribute to the mission of the church but prefer to work behind the scenes. It's also a great place to learn more about how the church functions.
HOSPITALITY TEAM (see HOSPITALITY under Projects and Volunteering)
LEGACY FUND COMMITTEE Contact: Pat Andrican
Work Type: Process Frequency: Irregular Date & Time: Varies
The Legacy Fund Committee is a team with strong financial backgrounds that meets 3-4 times a year to review investments and to plan for the continued preservation of the Legacy Fund balance through careful investing. Grants to support the activities of the congregation are made from interest earned on the investments. Legacy Fund grants are used to expand programs in the areas of education, music, outreach, facilities, and leadership, and to make it possible to take advantage of out-of-the ordinary, special, or emerging opportunities. The team makes grant recommendations to the MUMC Church Council. They also work to increase congregational awareness of the benefits of legacy gifts.
MISSION TEAM Contact: Michelle Brown, Don Kerr
Work Type: Process Frequency: Monthly Date & Time: 2nd Tuesday at 7:00 pm
The Mission Team provides leadership and financial oversight of the mission events, collections, and donations related to these ministries: Simpson Homeless Shelter, ICA Food Shelf, Blood Drive, Prayer Shawl Ministry, Meals on Wheels, Quilt Group, Feed My Starving Children, Christmas Gifts, Resource West, Emma Norton Residence for Women, Sojourner Project, The Dignity Center, MICAH (Metropolitan Interfaith Council on Affordable Housing), Project AgGrad, Haiti Outreach, Rabondo Community Project USA, Men Against the Trafficking of Others (MATTOO), and Missionary support for Gordon and Ardell Graner in the Dominican Republic.
Opportunities to Serve: Ministries, Committees & Teams continued
RECONCILING MINISTRIES Contact: Kelly Dunn
Work Type: Process Frequency: Monthly Date & Time: 3rd Sunday after 1st service
MUMC is a Reconciling Congregation actively working with state and national reconciling networks to make the denomination fully inclusive of all people, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender orientation. We support activities that promote inclusion, such as displaying a rainbow flag in our sanctuary and outside. We provide adult study programs for members to discuss issues that impact the LGBTQ community. We encourage delegates to the Minnesota Annual Conference and the UMC General Conference to support legislation to remove or change language in the UMC Book of Discipline that does not reflect God's love for all people. We join other Minnesota Reconciling Congregations in the Twin Cities Pride event each June by volunteering at their booth and joining their unit in the parade. Members of the congregation can help by sharing their stories of support for full inclusion, participating in events sponsored by the team, and supporting fundraisers for Avenues for Youth mission projects.
STAFF PARISH RELATIONS COMMITTEE (SPRC) Contact: Ken Starkey
Work Type: Process Frequency: Monthly Date & Time: 2nd Tuesday at 7:00 pm
The SPRC acts as the personnel supervisory committee of the church. The lead pastor reports to this committee and SPRC members act in an advisory role to the lead pastor. As issues are brought to the attention of the committee, each member has an opportunity to share their thoughts. As the church hires new staff, the SPRC might also serve as a second interviewer. The SPRC also makes staff compensation recommendations to the Finance Committee on an annual basis.
STEWARDSHIP COMMITTEE Contact: Pastor Jeanine Alexander
Work Type: Process Frequency: Irregular Date & Time: Varies
The Stewardship Committee supports the lead pastor in the annual stewardship campaign. They meet with the lead pastor approximately five times per year to review the stewardship plan, to share their thoughts, and to make recommendations. The team’s mission is to help the lead pastor design a stewardship plan that reflects MUMC’s vision. Committee members are also asked to meet with other ministry teams for approximately ten minutes once a year to share that year's stewardship message. The most beneficial role stewardship committee members can perform is to share their faith story.
TECHNOLOGY TEAM Contact: Kelly Dunn
Work Type: Process Frequency: Monthly Date & Time: 4th Tuesday at 6:30 pm
As MUMC becomes more reliant on technology to carry out its mission, this team provides an internal resource for church staff and volunteers to receive guidance on technology matters. They work with the Trustees to monitor the existing technology and computer network, and review any technological changes or additions. Technology support volunteers work with staff to effectively use church hardware and software as part of a work network. This is a good place for someone with particular technology expertise to get involved.
UMW STEERING COMMITTEE Contact: Michelle Rayle, Melinda Kohrt
Work Type: Process Frequency: Irregular Date & Time: Varies
The United Methodist Women (UMW) Steering Committee consists of co-leaders, a treasurer, and members that set dates, plan and publicize UMW activities, and recruit helpers to make each activity happen. Activities include UMW Sunday, retreats, speakers, educational programs, rummage sale, bake sale, SERRV Greater Gift sale, and the ESL Thanksgiving dinner. The group also provides support to the Emma Norton Residence, Sojourner Project Women’s Shelter, Teen Clinic, and promotes district-wide UMW activities.
Opportunities to Serve: Ministries, Committees & Teams continued
WELCOMING TEAM (see WELCOMING opportunities under Projects and Volunteering)
WORSHIP MINISTRY TEAM Contact: Ann Brackett
Work Type: Process Frequency: Monthly Date & Time: 3rd Monday at 6:30 pm
The Worship Team is responsible for Communion preparation, Scripture reading, ushers, flowers, music, and parament and banner changes. The team assists the pastors and staff as they lead worship by helping to provide the desired atmosphere in the Sanctuary. At the monthly meetings visions and creative ideas about worship are discussed and then shared with the pastors to coordinate plans and worship goals. Often the group gathers on a Saturday to prepare the Sanctuary or to create an extra prayer space. At Advent many volunteers are needed to help decorate the church.
YOUTH MINISTRY PROGRAM TEAM Contact: Loretta Dunn
Work Type: Process Frequency: Monthly Date & Time: 3rd Tuesday at 7:00 pm
The focus of this team is to brainstorm and plan events and activities for youth in grades 6-12—things like mission trips, fundraisers, service projects, games, youth fellowship activities and events. The team members tend to be either parents or a person with a passion for working with youth of this age group.
Opportunities to Serve: Projects and Volunteering
ADULT EDUCATION TEACHER /FACILITATOR Contact: Judy Sunderland, Pastor Tiffany McDonald Work Type: Project Date & Time Some year-round, some 6-8 week classes
Adult education sessions occur throughout the year. Teaching/leading may be on a regular schedule e.g., weekly, bi-weekly, monthly, bi-monthly or specific dates. This is a great opportunity for people who enjoy teaching, leading, and facilitating. Topics and times vary. Short-term small group experiences are a vital part of our mission to be caring, inclusive, and Spirit-filled in all we do.
ADVENTURE CLUB TEACHER Contact: Haley Mathison
Work Type: Project Frequency: Weekly Date & Time: Wednesday 6:30 – 8:00 pm
Adventure Club is an adventurous array of Bible stories, activities, and crafts for children in Kindergarten through 6th grade. Because there is not a set curriculum for Adventure Club, we like to have two or more teachers every Wednesday night throughout the year (these two teachers might rotate or take turns, but they stay consistent). The roles are very similar to those of the teachers and shepherds on a Sunday morning. The main prep work is preparing the lesson. All people working with children need to take the Safe Church Training which includes a background check.
ALL CHURCH WORK DAY Contact: Ron Scheel
Work Type: Task Frequency: Spring, Fall Date & Time: Varies
Each spring and fall the Trustees organize a day for the congregation to join together to spruce up the church, inside and out. Many hands makes light work, so please join in, everybody is needed. The Trustees provide coffee, treats, and a list of things to be done. Bring rakes, clippers, trimmers, and leaf-blowers, if you have them, and don’t forget your work gloves.
BLOOD DONATION Contact: Eric Lunde
Work Type: Task Frequency: Spring, Fall Date & Time: Varies
MUMC hosts the Blood Mobile each spring and fall to help ensure that an adequate blood supply is available to those in need. Two dozen healthy donors who meet the requirements for donating and can spare approximately one hour are needed for each drive. (Please check with the Blood Center in advance if you are on medications.) The minimum age is 17, with parental consent. This is a great opportunity for people who are healthy and want to help others.
CARING FOR CREATION Contact: Phyllis Kerr, Dennis Yockers
Work Type: Project, Task Frequency: Irregular Date & Time: Varies
Those interested in caring for God’s creation through sustainability for future generations can help with projects such as native landscaping and Earth Sunday in the spring.
CHRISTMAS GIFT DONATIONS Contact: Church Office
Work Type: Task Frequency: Annually Date & Time: November-December
During the Christmas season the church collects gifts for various organizations, which are announced in the newsletter and the Sunday bulletin. Call the church office with questions or ideas.
CHURCH GROUNDS MAINTENANCE Contact: Ron Scheel
Work Type: Task Frequency: As needed Date & Time: Varies
This opportunity is for people who love gardening and being outdoors and want to help keep the exterior grounds of the church looking beautiful.
Opportunities to Serve: Projects and Volunteering continued
CHURCH OFFICE VOLUNTEER Contact: Michelle Schober
Work Type: Task Frequency: As agreed Date & Time: Various
There are many ways that volunteers can help the church office. On Wednesday afternoon volunteers cover the office during staff meetings. Help is needed each Thursday afternoon or Friday morning to put the Sunday bulletins together, and at the end of the month, to assemble the newsletter. Assistance with removing old items and adding new information to the pews is often needed. No long term commitment required. Any help, any time is appreciated. This is a great opportunity for people who want to help at church, but not commit to a specific ministry team.
COLLEGE STUDENTS’ CARE PACKAGES Contact: Barb Post
Work Type: Task Frequency: Annually Date & Time: January-February
The post-high school time period can be fraught with loneliness and confusion. Valentine's Day does not necessarily ease that pain. This is an opportunity to let young adults realize that although they are out of sight they are not out of the minds and hearts of their church family. In January and early February a Valentine tree is set up with heart ornaments showing suggested items for donation. MUMC members donate the contents. Cash contributions are used to fill in the gaps and/or contribute toward the cost of mailing. MUMC family and friends submit names and addresses of young adults. Any young adult (generally age 18-22+), not just college students, may be the recipient of a care package. Volunteers promote the project, gather the donated items and pack and mail the packages in early February. This is a great opportunity for people who have a limited amount of time to devote towards outreach but are interested in having an impact on young adults who have recently graduated from high school.
COMMUNICATIONS – CHANGE THE OUTDOOR SIGN Contact: Barbara Lunde
Work Type: Task Frequency: Weekly Date & Time: As arranged
Volunteers are needed to change the letters on the church’s outdoor sign located on Highway 101. Volunteers sign up for one month. There is a signup sheet in Fellowship Hall on the right-hand side on the bulletin board titled ‘Service & Mission.’ It is a great opportunity for families and individuals to volunteer to advertise our church to the community and takes about 45 minutes each week. Training and content are provided.
COMMUNICATIONS – FACEBOOK MAINTENANCE Contact: Kelly Dunn, Michelle Schober
Work Type: Task (Home) Frequency: Regularly Date & Time: As needed
MUMC needs one or two people to actively manage the church’s Facebook presence. This is a critical mission to let the community know who we are, what we believe, and what we do.
COMMUNICATIONS – NEWSLETTER EDITOR Contact: Karen Malmstrom
Work Type: Project (Home) Frequency: Monthly Date & Time: 3rd week and weekend
During the 3rd week of each month the newsletter editor receives articles from staff and committee members and spends approximately 6-9 hours on the weekend doing the editing and layout in an existing eight-page newsletter template. The working copy is then proofread and completed by the church administrators. It’s a good fit for a volunteer that enjoys working solo from home. It is necessary to have knowledge of Microsoft Word and be familiar with how to change fonts as well as to insert text boxes, photos, and clip art. Anyone participating in church activities is invited to write about their experiences and have them published in the newsletter, depending on space availability.
Opportunities to Serve: Projects and Volunteering continued
COMMUNICATIONS – WEBSITE MAINTENANCE Contact: Kelly Dunn, Michelle Schober
Work Type: Task (Home) Frequency: Regularly Date & Time: As needed
The church’s website is built on the WordPress content management system. Certain staff members have administrative rights to change specific content to keep the website current. Overall direction of the site is reviewed with the Church Council. If someone would like to help with website maintenance, and has advanced skills in CSS, HTML, video editing, or image creation, they should contact Kelly Dunn. Depending on the direction chosen by the Technology Team, others may be trained in the software platform to assist with keeping content current.
COMMUNION SERVING & SETUP (see WORSHIP SERVICE)
COMMUNITY MEAL Contact: Barbara Lunde
Work Type: Task Frequency: Monthly Date & Time: 1st Thursday from 5:30 – 6:30 pm
Each month MUMC opens its doors and serves a free meal to the community. This is done through a partnership with ICA, the local food shelf, and is aimed at serving the less fortunate in our local area. This mission opportunity is all about the vision of caring for those in need right in our community, being inclusive and sharing God's compassion to all who enter his home. Signup sheets are posted in Fellowship Hall on the right-hand side on the bulletin board titled ‘Service & Mission’ for food donations as well as to help prepare, serve and cleanup after the meal. Volunteers also make phone calls to remind guests, and work with the children (e.g., coloring with them) while their parents finish eating. Families are encouraged to volunteer. A person is also needed to assist Barbara Lunde with organizing the meal.
CONGREGATIONAL CARE (Caring Connections) Contact: Judy Sunderland
Work Type: Task, Task (Home) Frequency: Irregular Date & Time: As needed
Volunteers can assist other members of the congregation by offering to:
• Drive those in need of a ride who are unable to drive themselves.
• Send notes of encouragement when someone is ill or going through a difficult time.
• Provide meals for homebound people, people in home hospice, recovering from surgeries, etc.
• Help with yard work, handyman items, or home technology issues.
DRAMA MINISTRY (See WORSHIP SERVICE)
ELECTION CAFÉ Contact: Sally Colburn, Martha Warner
Work Type: Task Frequency: Presidential Election Day Date & Time: 7:30 am to 8:30 pm
MUMC provides food and beverages to voters on Election Day of presidential election years (2016, 2020). It’s a great community outreach project to demonstrate our hospitality and to offer a chance for neighbors to greet their neighbors.
FEED MY STARVING CHILDREN Contact: Michelle Brown, Don Kerr
Work Type: Task Frequency: Irregular Date & Time: Varies, 1.5 to 2 hours
MUMC organizes youth and adult teams to hand-pack meals specifically formulated for malnourished children, and ship them to countries affected by natural disaster and places enduring economic despair. This activity takes place at Feed My Starving Children located in Chanhassen. The minimum age for volunteers is five, as long as the child has a one-on-one adult with them. Required student to adult ratios for volunteers are Grade K-2: 1 student to 1 adult, Grade 3-6: 3 students to 1 adult, Grade 7-9: 4 students to 1 adult, Grade 10-12: 5 students to 1 adult.
Opportunities to Serve: Projects and Volunteering continued
GREETERS Contact: Church Office
Work Type: Task Frequency: Signup Date & Time: Sunday at 8:40 am or 10:25 am
Greeters stand inside near the front doors and shake hands and greet everyone who enters the church on Sunday mornings before service. Volunteers should arrive about 20 minutes before the church service starts. Greeters are usually members of the church.
HOMELESS SHELTER MEALS – MAKE DESSERTS Contact: Anne Bretts
Work Type: Task (Home) Frequency: Monthly Date & Time: Varies
Volunteers make desserts at home and deliver them to the church to be served at the Simpson Homeless Shelter dinners. Most people make brownies or cookies. The desserts should be put in disposable containers marked 'for Simpson' and brought to the church kitchen during the month before a meal is scheduled to be served. Early donations are frozen. The dates for the dinners can be found in the Sunday bulletin, in the newsletter, and on the ‘Service & Mission’ bulletin board in Fellowship Hall.
HOMELESS SHELTER MEALS – PREPARE FOOD Contact: Anne Bretts
Work Type: Task Frequency: Irregular Date & Time: Varies, usually Sat. morning
Three times a year volunteers meet at church on a Saturday morning at 9:00 am to make enough meatloaf for three months’ worth of homeless shelter meals which are then frozen until needed. This takes about 60-90 minutes. The dates are announced in the Sunday bulletin and in the newsletter.
HOMELESS SHELTER MEALS – SERVE AT SIMPSON SHELTER Contact: Anne Bretts
Work Type: Task Frequency: Monthly Date & Time: Posted on Service Bulletin Board Simpson Housing Services (SHS) provides emergency shelter and/or affordable housing for homeless men and women in Minneapolis. Nine times a year MUMC provides a dinner for about 120 residents of Simpson’s Emergency Shelter, located in the basement of Simpson UMC, 2740 1st Ave S, Minneapolis. About 15 adult and children volunteers from MUMC cook and serve a meatloaf dinner at the shelter. Team leaders shop and pack supplies before-hand. Dates are posted on the ‘Service & Mission’ bulletin board located in Fellowship Hall and can also be found in the Sunday bulletin, newsletter, and by email for those who have expressed an interest in participating. People either meet at church at 5 pm to carpool or meet the group at Simpson at 6 pm. The group finishes doing dishes at the shelter around 8:15 pm. This is a great opportunity to serve the poor, learn more about homelessness, and get to know other volunteers. Friends and co-workers are welcome to join in serving.
HOSPITALITY - COFFEE HOUR HOSTING or HELPING Contact: Teri Berglund
Work Type: Task Frequency: Weekly Date & Time: Sunday morning
Volunteers make coffee and set up the Sunday morning refreshments. This includes getting water pitchers ready, setting out the donut holes, and generally making sure there is enough to make it through the morning. Instruction is available prior to your volunteer date. The task begins about 8:00 am and ends by noon. Volunteers can rotate Sundays so you may only need to help out every 6-8 weeks.
HOSPITALITY – FOOD, SERVING FOOD, SETUP, AND CLEANUP Contact: Judy Sunderland
Work Type: Task Frequency: Irregular Date & Time: As needed
Volunteers arrange for snacks, desserts and other foods for special events such as celebrations and special Sundays. They also plan the annual Christmas event. This group arranges for setup before and cleanup after these events. It’s a fun and rewarding opportunity if you have limited time to volunteer. (Also see the entries for Homeless Shelter Meals and Community Meal.)
Opportunities to Serve: Projects and Volunteering continued
HOSPITALITY – FUNERALS Contact: Melinda Kohrt
Work Type: Task (Home for cook/bake) Frequency: Irregular Date & Time: As needed
On the day of the funeral volunteers arrange flowers for table centerpieces, set up and serve the food requested by the family, and clean up after the funeral reception ends. Volunteers can also bake bars for the funeral reception. When there is notification of an upcoming funeral, helpers are contacted from the committee’s list. To participate, notify the church office, or sign up on the sheet found in Fellowship Hall on the right-hand side on the bulletin board titled ‘Service & Mission.’
HOSTING SUNDAY COFFEE HOUR (see HOSPITALITY – COFFEE HOUR)
I.C.A. (INTERCONGREGATIONAL COMMUNITIES ASSOC.) FOOD SHELF Contact: Eric Lunde
Work Type: Task Frequency: As needed Date & Time: As needed
MUMC and 35 other local congregations support and operate an emergency food shelf and provide assistance with housing and other types of needs. It is done through food collections, monetary donations, and volunteer hours. Volunteers can work as many or as few hours as they are able. Call 952-938-0729 or visit to learn more about ways you can help those in need in our community. Volunteers sort food, assist clients getting food, answer phones, help with special events and do many other activities. There are needs during the day as well as in the evening and on weekends. This is a great opportunity both for people who want to help but perhaps cannot commit to a fixed schedule as well as those who can help regularly.
LITURGICAL DANCE (See WORSHIP SERVICE)
MEALS ON WHEELS DRIVER Contact: Mary Hendrickson
Work Type: Task Frequency: Monthly Date & Time: 4th week 11:00 am to 12:30 pm
Volunteering for Meals on Wheels is a great way to make a huge impact in a short amount of time. By delivering meals you bring nutritious food and a friendly visit to 4-7 seniors and people with disabilities in our local community. MUMC drives a route Monday through Friday on the 4th week of each month. Meals are picked up at 11:00 am at Mt. Calvary in Excelsior and the driver is given directions and a map. MUMC has about a dozen drivers, so volunteers can work out a schedule based on availability. There is a signup sheet in Fellowship Hall on the right-hand side on the bulletin board titled ‘Service & Mission.’
MISSION TRIP to PANAMA Contact: Judy Sunderland
Work Type: Project/Task Frequency: Annually Date & Time: January
Each year, for the past 20+ years, a group of MUMC volunteers has traveled to other countries to serve in mission for a week. The group originally went to Puerto Rico, then to Honduras, and now to Punta Delgadita in Santiago, Veraguas, Panama. Each year varies, but generally there is a group that does construction, another that hosts Vacation Bible School, and a third that offers a dental clinic. For 2016 the cost is $1,600 per person which includes air and bus transportation, meals, and hotel with assigned roommates. A passport less than 6 months from expiration is required. A very rewarding experience!
MISSION TRIP - REGIONAL (Youth and Adults) Contact: Loretta Dunn, Haley Mathison
Work Type: Project Frequency: Annually Date & Time: Summer
These mission trips are typically for youth in grades 7-12 with adult sponsors. In the past, the group has gone to Minot, ND; Iowa; Duluth, MN; Rosebud Indian Reservation in Mission, SD; and Hubbard, MN. Activities have included yard work, painting, nursing home visits, construction, and serving in a food shelter/soup kitchen.
Opportunities to Serve: Projects and Volunteering continued
MISSION WORK – LOCAL Contact: Michelle Brown, Don Kerr
Work Type: Project, Task Frequency: Irregular Date & Time: Varies
Opportunities to help for a day, a few hours, or with donations are available throughout the year. Details can be found in the Sunday Bulletin and in the newsletter.
MUSIC – CHANCEL CHOIR Contact: Michelle Gehrz
Work Type: Task Frequency: September – May
Date & Time: Rehearsal - Wednesday from 6:45 to 8:00 pm Worship Service - Sunday from 8:00 – 10:15 am
All singers are invited to join the Chancel Choir. The choir sings during the 9:00 am Traditional Worship Service September through May. On Sundays there is an 8:00 am warm up followed by the worship service. There is a very flexible attendance policy – "Come when you can; you'll be missed when you are not with us!" Choir is an excellent way to meet people, develop friendships, and experience God’s presence through united voices and a shared love of God.
MUSIC – CHILDREN’S CHOIR Contact: Linda Evans
Work Type: Task Frequency: Weekly, Sep-May Date & Time: Rehearsal: Sunday 10 – 10:40 am
The children’s choir is composed of children in grades 1-5 with 6th grade helpers/singers. They begin each year with preparation for the December Christmas Musical program. The children’s choir also sings during some worship services about once a month during the school year.
MUSIC – INSTRUMENTALIST Contact: Michelle Gehrz
Work Type: Task Frequency: Irregular Date & Time: At worship services
Drummers or guitarists to create a contemporary worship band would be great! Any other instruments are beautiful to add to hymns or as special music.
MUSIC – SPECIAL MUSIC Contact: Michelle Gehrz
Work Type: Task Frequency: Irregular Date & Time: 9:00 am worship service
MUMC can always utilize vocalists and instrumentalists. We love quality solo voices! The texts do need to be church appropriate. If possible, Michelle would like to see the text and/or hear a YouTube version.
NURSERY HELPER Contact: Jamie Anderson (Sundays)
Work Type: Task Frequency: Signup Pastor Tiffany (Wednesdays)
Date & Time: Sunday 8:45–10:15 am, or Sunday 10:30 am–noon, or Wednesday 6:15–8:00 pm
Nursery helpers assist the nursery attendant with the care of children. The children in the nursery range in age from newborns to 3-year-olds (up to kindergarten age on Wednesday nights). The minimum age to help is 14-years old. This is a great opportunity for service hours for confirmation students. All people working in the nursery need to take the Safe Church Training, which includes a background check.
PHOTOGRAPHY Contact: Judy Sunderland
Work Type: Task Frequency: Irregular Date & Time: As needed
Volunteers take pictures of special events during the church year to commemorate the event.
PRAYER CHAIN MINISTRY Contact: Jeanne Mahaffey
Work Type: Task (Home)
Prayer Chain volunteers are notified when a request comes in to pray for someone. Requests come via email for privacy and for approval to share the information with the prayer chain.
Opportunities to Serve: Projects and Volunteering continued
PRAYER SHAWL MINISTRY Contact: Judy Sunderland
Work Type: Task (Home)
The love of knitting and crocheting comes together in the prayer shawl ministry. Nearly 550 shawls have been given to those in need of comfort and support as well as to all who are baptized at MUMC. As more and more shawls are given out, the need to replenish the supply is increasing. We have patterns for both knitted and crocheted shawls available if you need them. Please contact Judy Sunderland to participate or to let her know if you or a loved one wish to be wrapped in prayer with a shawl.
QUILTING MINISTRY Contact: Sally Nelson
Work Type: Task Frequency: Weekly Date & Time: Monday at 9:30 am
This group makes quilts from used, unstained sheets and blankets, twin sized or larger. Colorful sheets are used for the top layer, the blankets go inside with batting, and the twin or plain sheets become the back. Participants don't need to bring anything and don't need to know how to sew. It's very simple quilting using knot tying. Come and learn just by watching. Often you can see the quilts hanging in the Fellowship Hall balcony before they are shipped off to their new homes. Quilts are donated to Sojourner Project Women’s Shelter, Family Place, Simpson Shelter, Bridging, God’s Closet, Dignity Center, VA Hospital, Avenues for Homeless Youth and orphanages in Romania.
RELAY FOR LIFE CANCER FUNDRAISING EVENT Contact: Mary Hendrickson
Work Type: Project, Task Frequency: Annually Date & Time: Summer
Each year there is a need for someone to organize a MUMC team to walk at an American Cancer Society Relay for Life event and to also coordinate the sale of luminaria bags. The bags are personalized in memory or in honor of a friend or loved one who has been affected by cancer. The bags are placed around the track at the event and illuminated after dark.
RUMMAGE SALE (see UMW RUMMAGE SALE)
SANCTUARY DECORATING (see WORSHIP SERVICE)
SEASONAL FAMILY FESTIVALS VOLUNTEERS Contact: Haley Mathison
Work Type: Project, Task Frequency: Annually Date & Time: Fall, Advent, Easter, Summer
The Children’s Ministry Team puts on four events each year: a Family Fall Festival (games, crafts, activities, and snack with a Halloween theme plus a costume parade), an Advent Festival (games, crafts, activities, and a snack with a Christmas/Advent Theme), an Easter Egg Hunt (between services on Easter Sunday), and Vacation Bible School. Co-leaders are needed to do the majority of the planning for each event. A group of volunteers is also needed to help set up, run each station, and to clean up.
SERRV GREATER GIFT SALE Contact: Emelie Johnson, Sharon Eastwood
Work Type: Project, Task Frequency: Annually Date & Time: April 2016
The SERRV Greater Gift Sale provides an outlet for fair trade SERRV items from cooperatives of disadvantaged artisans and farmers in Asia, Africa, Latin America, the Middle East, and the United States. The artisans and farmers receive fair wages, which help them support their families. Church volunteers are needed to unpack and set up on the day before the sale, restock on sale day, and help clean up and repack at the sale’s end.
Opportunities to Serve: Projects and Volunteering continued
SOJOURNER PROJECT WOMENS SHELTER MEALS Contact: Barbara Kern-Pieh
Work Type: Financial donation Frequency: Monthly
The Domestic Violence/Abuse Ministries team coordinates, prepares, and serves a meal each month to shelter residents. The team needs financial donations to help with the purchase of meal ingredients. Each meal event costs approximately $70 total.
SUNDAY SCHOOL SHEPHERD Contact: Haley Mathison
Work Type: Task Frequency: One Sunday Date & Time: Sunday at 9:00 am or 10:45 am
A shepherd is the second adult in the Sunday school room on Sunday mornings. The Shepherd’s role is to stay in church with the children until after the children’s message, then leave worship with the children and help them sign in and make a name tag. Then the shepherd takes their group to the classroom for the day and stays in the classroom during the lesson, helping both the teacher and the children as needed. A shepherd will typically volunteer for one Sunday at a time. All who volunteer with children must complete the Safe Church Policy training, which includes a background check.
SUNDAY SCHOOL TEACHER Contact: Haley Mathison
Work Type: Project Frequency: Weekly for 2 weeks Date & Time: Sunday at 9:00 or 10:45 am
The teacher is responsible for planning and leading an activity that follows the story theme for that month. Teachers typically commit to teaching two Sundays in a row, teaching the same lesson—for the K-2nd grade group one week, and the 3rd – 4th/5th grade group the other week. All who volunteer with children must complete the Safe Church Policy training which includes a background check.
UMW GUEST SPEAKERS Contact: Melinda Kohrt, Michelle Rayle
Work Type: Project Frequency: Irregular Date & Time: As needed
Volunteers are needed to make arrangements for guest speakers. Examples of types of topics of interest include domestic abuse, immigration, disability awareness, sex trafficking, and women’s health.
UMW HOLIDAY BAKE SALE Contact: Eileen Jensen
Work Type: Project, Task Frequency: Annually Date & Time: December
In December the UMW hosts a bake sale to raise funds for charitable missions. Volunteers are needed to donate cookies, bars, cakes, sweet breads, breads, rolls, pies, candies, fruitcakes, and jars of jellies, either decorated for Christmas or in Christmas-type packaging. Volunteers are also needed to set up tables and to prepare the display.
UMW RUMMAGE SALE Contact: Sidonia Johnson
Work Type: Project, Task Frequency: Annually Date & Time: October
The UMW rummage sale is a week-long fundraising event. From Sunday through Wednesday donations are dropped off at the church and volunteers sort and price the items. During the sale, some volunteers work at the checkout stations, collecting money or bagging items. Others walk around and help shoppers, and others straighten the items after shoppers have been through. A few volunteers work the kitchen. After the sale volunteers box up all the unsold merchandise and help load a truck. Many volunteers are needed, including men and children. People can sign up for a certain shift or just show up when they can. The funds raised are donated to national and local charities such as Sojourner Project Women’s Shelter, Family Place, Simpson Shelter, My Health for Teens and Young Adults, UMCOR, Emma Norton Services, and Minnesota Indian Women’s Resource Center.
Opportunities to Serve: Projects and Volunteering continued
UMW SPRING EVENT VOLUNTEERS Contact: Michelle Rayle, Melinda Kohrt
Work Type: Project, Task Frequency: Annually Date & Time: Varies
Each spring the UMW hosts an event that everyone is invited to attend. Past events have included a Cinco de Mayo luncheon and brunches with special speakers. Helpers are needed on the planning committee as well as to host, greet, provide food, serve, and clean up on the event day.
UMW SUNDAY Contact: Michelle Rayle
Work Type: Project, Task Frequency: Annually Date & Time: Varies
UMW Sunday is a day when women of MUMC plan and carry out the two church services. There is often a guest speaker on topics of importance to women and children or on UMW themes for the year. Volunteers are needed to greet, usher, read the scripture, perform music, and do the children’s sermon.
UMW THANKSGIVING PARTY FOR ESL STUDENTS (off-site location)
Contact: Melinda Kohrt, Michelle Rayle
Work Type: Project, Task Frequency: Annually Date & Time: November
In cooperation with the Hopkins School District staff, a pot luck dinner is provided for the English as a Second Language (ESL) students on the Monday before Thanksgiving at the Eisenhower Community Center. The students often also bring food. Church members and ESL students enjoy a meal and conversation together. Volunteers are needed to make food, transport supplies to Eisenhower, set up tables, and clean up afterward.
UMW WOMEN’S RETREAT (off-site location) Contact: Melinda Kohrt, Michelle Rayle
Work Type: Project, Task Frequency: Annually Date & Time: Spring
United Methodist Women’s retreats are opportunities for spiritual growth and fellowship for women. They are held in the spring and last either a single day or overnight. Retreats are sometimes held in conjunction with nearby UMW groups. Volunteers are needed to bring ideas, do the planning, and carry out the retreat.
USHER (see WORSHIP SERVICE)
VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL VOLUNTEERS Contact: Haley Mathison
Work Type: Project, Task Frequency: Annually Date & Time: July 25-29, 2016
Volunteers are needed to be the annual VBS leader, participate on the planning committee, help create decorations, be the leader of a station, lead/help with drama and music, shepherd, and to set up and clean up. There is training for youth helpers and adults before VBS begins. A wish list of items to be donated is published in June and July for the stations, for decorations, snacks, and for the mission collection we are doing that year.
WEBSITE MAINTENANCE (see COMMUNICATIONS - WEBSITE MAINTENANCE)
WELCOMING BABY MINISTRY Contact: Pastor Tiffany McDonald
Work Type: Task (Home) Frequency: Irregular Date & Time: As needed
MUMC provides a Welcome Baby bag to families when a new child is born. Volunteers purchase or make items to go in the bag, fill it, and deliver the bag to the family on behalf of the church. The contents vary to fit the individual family’s needs, but a prayer for the child and the family, as well as developmental faith ideas are included in each bag. This is a great opportunity for people who love nurturing young families and for young families to get to know one another.
Opportunities to Serve: Projects and Volunteering continued
WELCOMING TEAM – SPONSOR NEW MEMBERS Contact: Pastor Tiffany McDonald
Work Type: Task Frequency: Irregular Date & Time: As needed
Our goal is to be caring, inclusive, and Spirit-filled when dealing with prospective new members. A sponsor makes initial contact with the assigned new member, and gets to know him or her. They keep in contact with that person for not less than one year, introducing them to others at church, inviting them to church events, and encouraging participation. Sponsors may volunteer, or a Pastor may ask you to be a sponsor.
WELCOMING TEAM – VISITOR INFORMATION DESK Contact: Carey Meyer
Work Type: Task Frequency: Signup Date & Time: Before, between, and after Sunday worship services
Volunteers stand at the Visitor Information Desk before and after worship to greet visitors. Each visiting family is given a gift. Volunteers are encouraged to get to know the visitors. If a contact has been made, volunteers may wish to pass on the information to the staff coordinator, who follows up with visitors. This is a great opportunity for those who like to meet new people.
WORSHIP SERVICE – COMMUNION SERVER Contact: Ann Brackett
Work Type: Task Frequency: Signup Date & Time: 1st Sunday at 9:00 am or 10:45 am
Communion is served by volunteers and the clergy. Usually two volunteers are needed for each Sunday. There are signup sheets in Fellowship Hall on the second bulletin board on the right-hand side. If no one has signed up, the pastor will pick members from the congregation on that day. Instructions are given to the servers about what to say and how to serve.
WORSHIP SERVICE – COMMUNION SETUP Contact: Chandra Benjamin
Work Type: Task Frequency: Signup Date & Time: 1st Sunday at 9:00 or 10:45 am
Communion is offered on the first Sunday of each month with occasional exceptions or extra dates. Volunteers prepare communion prior to each service and then clean the patens (plates) and chalices after second service, also taking care of the communion cloth and the left over juice and bread. Training is provided.
WORSHIP SERVICE – DRAMA MINISTRY Contact: Larry Evans
Work Type: Task Frequency: Irregular Date & Time: Varies
The Drama Team does various readings, skits, and dramas throughout the year, including reenacting the Living Last Supper. They also help with the children’s Christmas drama. Not everything has to be memorized. All are welcome, but the group especially needs teenagers and young adults. There is a signup sheet in Fellowship Hall on the right-hand side on the bulletin board titled ‘Adult Ministries.’
WORSHIP SERVICE – FLOWERS Contact: Ann Brackett
Work Type: Task Frequency: Signup Date & Time: Sundays
Those interested in purchasing the flowers for the sanctuary can sign up in Fellowship Hall on the second bulletin board on the right-hand side. The church office orders the flowers. If you wish a certain arrangement you can contact the florist, otherwise the florist works with the church office on the appropriate selection. You may choose your own florist, but you must notify the office that you are doing so. The donor(s) and who or what the flowers are given in honor or memory of are printed in the Sunday bulletin. The donors pick up the flowers after the second service.
Opportunities to Serve: Projects and Volunteering continued
WORSHIP SERVICE – LITURGICAL DANCE GROUP Contact: Loretta Dunn
Work Type: Task Frequency: Irregular Date & Time: Varies
This small group meets periodically to learn and rehearse dances which are shared with the congregation a few times a year, usually during Sunday worship. This is an opportunity to share your faith in a different way rather than through the spoken word.
WORSHIP SERVICE – SANCTUARY DECORATING Contact: Ann Brackett
Work Type: Task Frequency: Saturdays Date & Time: Varies
The Worship Ministries Program Team often gathers on Saturday to prepare the Sanctuary or to create an extra prayer space. At Advent many volunteers are needed to help decorate the church.
WORSHIP SERVICE – SCRIPTURE READING Contact: Ann Brackett
Work Type: Task Frequency: Signup Date & Time: Sundays
Anyone interested in reading the scripture during one of the Sunday services can sign up in Fellowship Hall on the sheet found on the second bulletin board on the right-hand side. On the 4th Sunday of each month the reading is done by children or youth. The church office emails the scripture passage to the readers on Thursday.
WORSHIP SERVICE – USHER Contact: 9:00 service Dave & Gail Wiczek, 10:45 service Shelley Knoblauch Work Type: Task Frequency: Signup Date & Time: Sunday at 8:40 or 10:25 am
Ushers hand out bulletins, direct people to seats and to take communion, count attendance, and collect the offering. They need to be present 20 minutes before the service starts and for about 15 minutes after the service ends. Signup sheets can be found in Fellowship Hall on the second bulletin board on the right-hand side. Ushering is a great opportunity for anyone who wants to serve the church, allowing interaction with all who attend service. Training is provided.
YOUTH ACTIVITIES & PROJECTS (ADULT SUPPORT) Contact: Loretta Dunn
Work Type: Project, Task Frequency: Irregular Date & Time: Varies
The Youth Ministry Team needs volunteer help throughout the year with a variety of activities like a car wash, pancake breakfast, making sandwiches, sleep-overs, etc. Usually activities are scheduled one to two months in advance. All who volunteer with youth must complete the Safe Church Policy training, which includes a background check.
Vision Statement
The vision of Minnetonka United Methodist Church is to be caring, inclusive, and Spirit-filled in all that we do.
Reconciling Statement
Our commitment is to follow Christ’s example and, as a Reconciling congregation, to welcome persons of all sexual identities and orientations into this faith community.
Permission-Giving, Gifts-Oriented Ministry Culture
Christians are called and equipped by God for a life of service. Everyone at MUMC is encouraged to discern their God-given gifts, talents, and personal characteristics, and to use them in ways that glorify God, build up the church, Christ’s body on earth, and serve other people.
The opportunities in this booklet are a combination of the structures defined in the UMC organizational discipline, and the passions for ministry and mission held by the people at Minnetonka UMC.
Opportunities at MUMC are dynamic and growing thanks to our permission-giving culture for ministries and missions. Any person in this faith community is free to start a new program or activity. The only “requirement” is that it be consistent with the Reign of God as revealed by Jesus Christ and with MUMC’s Vision and Reconciling Statements. We do recommend consulting with staff to help you identify and leverage resources and energies within the church to support you in your endeavor.
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