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Franklin District NewsNotes 2-8-2018

Many links are included in this publication. If you have trouble with the blue link….hold the Ctrl key down and click on the link.

New & Updated items in this issue of NewsNotes:

• New Superintendents – Pg 1

• Week of Prayer Conference Call – Pg 2

• Ash Wednesday Worship – Pg 2

• Keystone UMFCU Annual Meeting– Pg 5

• Scholarship Opportunity – Pg 5

• Chicken Breast n’ Stuffing Dinner – Pg 6

• Section Leader Training – Pg 6

• Blessed Prom Dress Ministry – Pg 7

• #SeeAllThePeople – Pg 8

• Pastoral Transitions Seminar – Pg 9

• For Churches with a Young Pastor – Pg 13

• Three Ways to Say “I Love You” – Pg 13

• UM Geography Quiz – Pg 14

• Keystone UM Federal Credit Union Services – Pg 14

• Worship Practices for Flu Season – Pg 14

• New Rhythm Talks at Bossa Nova – Pg 14

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February Birthdays this week:

12 Rev. Ralph Cotten

12 Patty Winger

13 Donna Lewis

February Anniversaries this week:

9 Rev. & Mrs. Earl Butterfield

12 Rev. & Mrs. Earl Dykes

12 Rev. & Mrs. Deryl Larsen

14 Rev. & Mrs. Adam Stump

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Prayer Concerns:

-Rev. Denise Mains and family at the passing of her son on 2-1-2018

-Rev. Dave Evans (retired) who is recovering from a fall that resulted in a broken rib and complications

-Rev. David Roddy (retired) recovering from surgery

-Rev. Bruce Merritt, continued recovery from fall that left him paralyzed

-Rev. Walt and Barb Hehman – Walt’s declining health

-Rev. Don Rudge – health concerns

-Rev. Paul Mitchell – chemo treatment

-Christine Fetter, wife of Rev. Dennis Fetter – health concerns

-Cathy Dykes, wife of Rev. Earl Dykes – health concerns

-Rev. Keith Diehl-health issues

-Nathan Storms, son of Rev. Tim & Eileen Storms (retired) has pancreatic cancer

-Bishop Cynthia and the Cabinet during the appointment season

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New- Four Superintendents Named: Bishop Cynthia Moore-Koikoi has selected four new district superintendents to begin serving July 1.  They are: Rev. Eric Park in the Butler District; the Rev. Dennis Swineford in the Erie-Meadville District; Rev. Sung Shik Chung in the Johnstown District, and Rev. Dawn M. Hand in the Pittsburgh District. Get details at appointments. Read about retiring superintendents.

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Clergy Ethics Training: All clergy are expected to attend the full session in order to meet their covenantal expectation. This includes elders, deacons, local pastors (full and part time), extension ministers or anyone serving as clergy. The training is valuable and required by the Book of Discipline. The small fee is to cover a book and lunch. Get details. Registration link: 

• Friday, February 9- 9:00-4:00, Asbury UMC, Erie $25

• Saturday, February 10- 9:00-4:00, Warren: First UMC $25

• Saturday, February 24- 9:00-4:00, Trinity UMC, Indiana $25

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2018 Love & Respect Marriage Enrichment Retreat at Jumonville February 9-11, 2018. The cost is $375 per couple. We will be using the study by Dr. Emerson and Sarah Eggerichs from their Love & Respect Marriage Conference. Jumonville office: 724-439-4912. Register

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Winter Carnival on Saturday, February 10 from 11 am – 3 pm at Keystone Elementary School in Knox. Benefits the Fertigs UM Charge Campership fund. Games, Prizes, Food and Chinese Auction. Everyone is welcome! For more information, call Deb Keister at 814-797-1121 (work) or 814-782-3754 (home).

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Braised Steak Dinner from 4 -6 pm on Saturday, February 10 at Grace UM Church of Rocky Grove, 350 Front Street, Franklin. Menu: Braised steak, mashed potatoes w/gravy, vegetable, applesauce, roll & butter, dessert & drink. Take outs. Price is by donation. Benefits the annual mission trip to Oak Hill, WV. Phone: 814-728-3343

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WPA Week of Prayer for Way Forward: United Methodists throughout Western Pennsylvania are urged to join in prayer and fasting from Sunday, February 11-Saturday, February 17. A devotional guide has been prepared for use by individuals and churches. Download guide at weekofprayer.

New- Week of Prayer Conference Call: The Conference Center will be hosting a conference call for people all around Western PA to pray with one another as we pray for a way forward for our denomination. We will be praying together Monday through Friday during the noon hour at 877.860.3058. The pass code for the prayer line is 5048371. The prayer will be streaming live on Facebook at wpaumc

Commission’s Prayer: After the recent Commission on a Way Forward meeting, members were asked to share three words that expressed their prayer for the church. “Mission” was the most frequently repeated word. Read press release. Read UMNS story

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Corrected Time: Clergy Taxes: The Rev. Don Joiner, a certified financial planner and clergy tax preparer, will lead a webinar sponsored by UMC Discipleship Ministries on February 12 at 11 a.m. (EST) to help clergy navigate the preparation of 2017 taxes and planning for tax changes that take effect in 2018. Register.

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Eliminating Poverty Workshop from 9:30 am – 3 pm on Tuesday, February 13, 2018 at Grove Avenue UMC, 501 Grove Avenue, Johnstown. Sharing of thoughts about how we might be able to identify and address poverty in our communities. Margaret Madison of the General Board of Global Ministries will share what she is doing as a Church and Community Worker as a Housing Specialist in Columbus, OH. Joy Baker will share what UM Human Services is doing through their Bridges to Success program, Project Shoes, and the Franklin Street Food Pantry. Goodwill Industries will share what services they provide as well as the members of the WPA Poverty Team led by Glenna Wilson. Cost: $10 per person (covers lunch and materials). Register

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New- Ash Wednesday – February 14th: Love and Repentance: What happens when Ash Wednesday, the fasting-and-repentance start of Lent, and St. Valentine’s Day, the celebration of romance and chocolates, show up on the same day,? Read more

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New- Ash Wednesday Worship: on Wednesday February 14 at 7 pm at Christ UM Church, 1135 Buffalo Street, Franklin. A joint worship event that will include, Grace UMC, First UMC and Christ UMC. This service will kick off our Lenten series, “REHAB”. Everyone is invited! [pic]

Annual Conference Agenda: Annual Conference is Thursday, June 7 - Saturday, June 9 at Grove City College. To request time on the agenda, email Faith Geer at faithgeer@ by February 15.  Indicate the type of presentation, its length, and how it benefits the AC members and the organization/program featured. Not all requests can be approved.

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Missed the Franklin District Bishop’s Event? Here are opportunities in other districts:

February 15 – Greensburg District. Location TBD

April 25 – Erie-Meadville District. Location TBD

April 26 – Pittsburgh District. Location TBD

May 15 – Kane District. Location TBD

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Small-Membership Church Camping Grants: Bishop Cynthia Moore-Koikoi has invited churches with an average worship attendance of 50 or less to apply for grants to fund a new, creative program related to camping and retreat ministries. The deadline to apply is February 15. Get details.

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Clergy Family, Retirees & Widows Mid-winter Break on Friday, February 16, 2018 at 6:00 pm at Grove City Hoss’s Steak House (near the Grove City Outlet Mall. Take I-79 to Exit 113, Go West on Route 208. Hoss’s is on the right.) Dress is casual. Come for food, fun and fellowship! (We will order from the menu). This Year Our Project is - The Clergy Spouse Association. Hoss’s will donate 20% of our total bills.

Please e-mail or telephone your reservation to Julie Lake franklin.office@ or 814-437-5857

by Thursday, February 8, 2018. If you need to cancel, PLEASE contact Julie as soon as possible. (Hoss’s provides extra wait staff based on the number of people in our party.)

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2018 WPA UMC Spring Commuter Licensing School Training & Certified Lay Ministry Training at Manorville UMC, 800 Water Street, Manorville, PA 16238. Registration and deposit must be received before Wednesday, February 14. Pre-requisites apply. Attendance is required at all classes. Application/Registration form with complete information is available by contacting the Franklin District Office at 814-437-5857 or franklin.office@. More information: Rev. Sara Wrona sara.wrona@ or 724-882-9627.

First Retreat: February 22 (1-9 pm), February 23 (9 am-9 pm), February 24+++ (9 am-5pm)

Saturdays: March 3, 10, 17, 24 and April 7, 14, 21 (9 am-5 pm)

Ending Retreat: April 26 (9 am-9 pm), April 27 (9 am-9pm), April 28 (9 am-5pm)

+++ Class will include the mandatory Clergy Ethics Training. Register and pay separately.

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Mission Trip to Guatemala: All God’s Children Ministries, which fits and distributes wheelchairs to those living with disabilities in developing areas, seeks team members for its international mission trip to Guatemala from Thursday, February 15 to Thursday, February 22, 2018. Contact Debbie Hills at deacon.dhills@. Learn more about All God’s Children’s International Missions

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Local Pastors and Associate Members Meeting on Saturday, February 17th from 10:00 am – 12:30 pm at First UM Church, 200 East North Street, Butler, PA 16001. Light refreshments will be provided. RSVP to tina.wilson@.

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Sauerkraut Supper at 6 pm on Saturday, February 17 at Strattanville UM Church, 401 Washington Street, Strattanville, PA. To make reservations, call the church office at 814-764-3332. No cost to attend.

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Shenango Valley Cluster Lenten Services

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Join us as the Shenango Valley Cluster of the United Methodist Churches gather to share our Lenten journey.

Each Sunday evening at 7 PM we will gather at a different UM Church across the Valley

for worship, music and to hear one of the area Pastors share “The Good News”. All are welcome.

Each evening will end with a time of fellowship and refreshments provided by the host church.

|Date |Location |Speaker |

|February 18 |Clark Trinity UMC |Rev. Jodi Smith, DS |

|February 25 |Sharpsville 1st UMC |Rev. Mark Goswick |

|March 4 |Hickory UMC |Rev. Earl Butterfield |

|March 11 |Sharon 1st UMC |Rev. Joe Yurko |

|March 18 |Wheatland/Farrell UMC |Rev. Frank Hodges |

|March 25 |West Middlesex UMC |Rev. Bill Locke |

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Run, Hide or Fight. . . When 1 Second Counts Active Shooter Training from 2 – 3 pm on Sunday, February 18 at Stoneboro United Methodist Church, 32 Lake Street, Stoneboro, PA 16153. If you were involved in an active shooter incident, how would you respond? When one second counts, what would you do? Presented by the Pennsylvania State Police. 724-376-2309

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Disability Awareness Sunday is February 18! The Conference Disability Concerns Committee has prepared a resource packet with bulletin insert. Download packet. The UM Disability blog offers a case study and some quick tips for a Deaf-friendly worship service from the United Methodist Committee on Deaf and Hard of Hearing Ministries with a goal of improving accessibility and inclusion. Learn more.

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BUTLER District Spring Lay Servant Ministry School on February 18, 25, March 4, 11 & 18. Classes: Basic Lay Servant, Preaching and Leading Worship, Discovering Spiritual Gifts, Evangelism and Pastoral Care. Lay Servant Ministries-Brochure Spring 2018.pdf

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2018 Washington District Lay Servant School on February 18, 25, March 4, 11, 18 from 2pm - 4:30pm at First UMC, 29 North College St, Washington, PA. Call the Washington District office at 724-225-6632 or email at washington.office@. Brochure available from the Franklin District Office upon request.

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WPA Prison Outreach Ministry Winter 2018 Newsletter: Volunteers needed to expand the ministry.

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2 Locations- Work as Worship: on Friday, February 23rd, at Seneca UMC, 196 E State Rd, Seneca, PA 16346 and Saegertown UMC, 620 Euclid Avenue, Saegertown, PA 16433. 8:30 am – 4 pm. A one-day retreat simulcast with Christian business owners, CEOs, and leaders who want their faith to impact their work. This is your chance to interact with other Christian men and women who lead businesses. Lunch is included in the $25 registration fee. REGISTER FOR SENECA REGISTER FOR SAEGERTOWN

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Our Way Home Gala on Friday, February 23rd at 6pm at the Crystal Ballroom in the Ambassador Banquet and Conference Center, 7792 Peach Street, Erie, PA 16509. Erie United Methodist Alliance (EUMA) will host this Gala featuring a delicious duet-plate dinner and dessert, live and silent auctions, and special presentation highlighting our work to end homelessness for families with children, Veterans and other neighbors in need.

Dress recommendation: "Sunday Best". Tickets: $50 per person/$400 per table of 8. A gluten-free, vegan dinner option is available for those with dietary restrictions. Please notify our office at 814-456-8073 by February 12 if you would like this non-meat alternative. Valet service will be available.  Reservations and payment are due by Monday, February 12, 2018. Registration: euma-.

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New- Keystone United Methodist Federal Credit Union annual meeting and open house on Monday, February 26th at the Conference Center, 1204 Freedom Rd, Cranberry Twp. Open house from 1 – 2:30 pm. Brief meeting with reports and elections at 1:30 pm. Enjoy refreshments and fellowship. New Year- New Look!

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New resources for Lent: Upper Room Books offers several choices, including a new six-week small group study, Easter Earthquake by James A. Harnish, and a personal meditation book, Pauses for Lent by Trevor Hudson. Catalog. Save 25 % off all orders by using promo code LENT2018 by Wednesday, February 28.

Lent 2018 Worship Planning Series Download Download

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New- Scholarship opportunity through the Beaver Valley Chapter of Credit Unions. Applications and essay must be received by Thursday, March 1, 2018. Applicant must be a member in good standing for at least 6 months at a credit union that is a member of the Beaver Valley Chapter of Credit Unions (Keystone UM Federal Credit Union). Five scholarships to be awarded. Application and requirements

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Commit 2018: The Conference is revamping its programming for Confirmation Class visits. To emphasize programming related to youth and allow for more significant time with our Bishop, leaders can choose one of five dates to bring their group to one of four locations around Western PA from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. (lunch included). All will worship together at the start of the day; Bishop Cynthia Moore-Koikoi will speak and meet with youth, and conference staff will lead breakout sessions on a number of topics. However, those groups choosing Jumonville, Camp Allegheny, or Wesley Woods have the unique opportunity to participate in various activities offered at these camps. Want more time? Turn the visit into a retreat by contacting the individual camp and making arrangements. Register: Confirmation2018. Choices include:

• March 3 - Jumonville

• March 9 - Camp Allegheny

• April 6 - UM Conference Center, Cranberry 

• April 7 - UM Conference Center, Cranberry

• April 14 - Wesley Woods

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Franklin District Clergy Retreat at Olmsted Manor March 4-6, 2018. Starts Sunday evening (no dinner-just snacks and coffee) and concludes Tuesday with lunch. Cost is $25 per person. This retreat is really for whatever you need it to be. We will have some evening and morning worship and two discussion times - that are completely optional. You can plan to read, rest, do sermon planning, take in God’s creation, etc. RSVP by February 15th to Julie at 814-437-5857 or franklin.office@ including dietary restrictions.

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Volunteers are needed for a WPAUMC Hurricane Recovery team March 4-10, to Baton Rouge, LA for recovery from both Hurricane Matthew in 2016 and adjacent damage from Harvey in 2017. Estimated cost is $600. Housing in local churches. Apply online.

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GBHEM Scholarship application: The Fall 2018 Application closes March 7, 2018. See information. For other scholarship opportunities within The United Methodist Church, visit the scholarship portal.

2018 Spring Loan Application available until May 2, 2018. Apply for a Loan

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New- Chicken Breast n’ Stuffing Dinner on Saturday March 10 from 4 – 6 pm at Grace UM Church of Rocky Grove, 350 Front Street, Franklin. Menu: Chicken breast, stuffing, mashed potatoes, gravy, vegetable, applesauce, roll with butter, dessert and drink. Take-outs available. Price is by donation. Benefits the annual mission trip to Oak Hill, WV. Phone: 814-758-3343

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|Register Now for "Protect, Sustain, Grow: Best Practices for Handling Your Church's Money" |

|Conference and Livestream on Saturday, March 10, from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Eastern Time. It provides practical advice, best practices, and resources for pastors, finance |

|committee members, church treasurers, financial secretaries, and bookkeepers. Early-bird registration through February 12. Learn more and register now. |

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UMCOR Sunday is March 11: In the wake of disasters, UMCOR is present among the devastation to provide relief and hope. Brand new resources are available to encourage generosity (videos, bulletin inserts, etc.)

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Establishing an Endowment? A UM Foundation webinar on Tuesday, March 13 at 10 a.m. will lead you through the 11 necessary steps for establishing an endowment for your church or agency. Details/Register

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UMC Day of Health, from 8 am – 5 pm on Saturday, March 17, at Dunwoody UM Church, in Atlanta, Georgia. You’ll find the tools and resources needed to implement health programs and ministries in your congregation and community. Organizations promoting health and well-being in their local communities will offer engaging breakout sessions. We will also be introducing Hulapalooza, a multi-faceted event with on a hula-hoop theme that includes activities for all-ages. Registration

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New- Section Leader Training: Clergy and laity are invited to learn skills to facilitate Christ-centered discussion, debate and decision-making during training sessions from 9 am - 2 pm, March 17 and April 14 at Dutilh UMC, Cranberry Twp. Teens are welcome. Those trained will have the opportunity to serve as a section leader during Annual Conference from June 7-9. For more information or to register, contact Ms. Guinevere Gregory at gp1954@ or Rev. Greg Spencer at glspncr@ or 724-224-2370

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A Way Forward: Scripture, Justice and Wesley on Saturday, March 17, 2018 from 8:30 am – 3:30 pm at St. Paul’s UM Church, 1965 Ferguson Rd, Allison Park, PA. This annual seminar will be a great opportunity to discuss with national leaders the various proposals. This seminar is open to all persons who want to learn how the issues related to human sexuality are affecting the future of our church. Keynote Speaker: Bishop Charlene Kammerer. Cost is $25 until March 1 and $30 after March 2. Includes salad smorgasbord lunch. (Gluten-free and vegetarian available) Brochure. Sponsored by the WPA Core Team. Register now.

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New People/New Places Grants: The Conference’s Parish & Community Development Committee is implementing a new process for awarding its “New Places/New People.” Grant application deadlines: March 23 and September 28. Decisions will be made as soon as possible after each deadline. Details and application.

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Disciple Making Training: from 9am-12pm on Saturday, March 24, 2018 at Crossroads UMC-Boyce Road Campus, 1120 Boyce Rd, Upper St. Clair, PA 15241. Learn to help others begin a relationship with Jesus Christ through sharing the Gospel in a natural way. Led by Pastor Steve Cordle. ALL Conference clergy and laity, including youth, are welcome! No Cost. Registration deadline is March 21, 2018. Register via the Washington District office at washington.office@ or .

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Palm Sunday – March 25th Good Friday – March 30th

Easter – April 1

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5th Annual Prayer Journey from 8am to 6pm on Tuesday, March 27th to Sunday, April 1st at Hydetown UMC, 12887 Main Street, Hydetown, PA 16328. Take a self-guided journey through a variety of devotional stations based on Psalm 23: The Lord as the Good Shepherd. Call 814-758-5550 or 814-657-3132 for information.

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New- Blessed Prom Dress Ministry: at Grace UM Church of Rocky Grove, 350 Front Street, Franklin would like to help you attend your prom. Before you shop anywhere else, come to our fittings and see if that “special” dress is here for you! From 7 – 9 pm on Thursday, April 5 and from 2 – 4 pm on Saturday, April 9. We have over 600 beautiful dresses in all colors, sizes and styles. Donated by dress shops, bridal shops and individuals, all are in pristine condition. Talented seamstresses on hand for alterations. No costs or obligations. Fittings are for ALL area schools! Phone: 814-432-8664.

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Greensburg District Saturday Lay Servant Ministries Classes April 7, 14, 21, 28, and May 5 from 9-11:30 am at McKeesport First UMC, 1406 Cornell St, McKeesport, PA 15132. Graduation will be May 5. Cost: $25/class. Classes: 15 is the maximum enrollment for each class. These classes are appropriate for self-improvement and progressing toward certification. Click here to register online.

-Basic Course

-You Can Preach

-Leading Bible Study

-Discovering Your Spiritual Gifts

-Leading in Prayer 

-Lay Servant Leader 

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FRANKLIN District Spring Lay Servant Ministry School from 2:30--5:30 pm on April 8, 15, 22 May 6 & 20, 2018 at First United Methodist Church, 600 Wood Street, Clarion, PA 16214. Advance registration is required. Late registrations will not be accepted. Cost: $25 before Saturday, March 17. For information, call or e-mail Paula Grucza, Franklin District Director of Lay Servant Ministries, (724) 974-9137 or paula.grucza@.

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Clergy Retirement Seminar for Clergy retiring in 2018 on Tuesday, April 10 from 9 am – 4 pm at the United Methodist Center - Hickman Room, 1204 Freedom Rd, Cranberry Twp., PA 16066. Contact Alexis Soohy

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Updated- #SeeAllthePeople: Most "church people" think people in their community are just like them. But often that's not the case. Bring a team of three or more from your church to one of five locations to explore ways to learn about the people in your community and how you might build relationships with them. Space is limited and on a first come-first served basis. Details.

The #SeeAllthePeople workshop is offered:

• April 9, Monday - Nixon UMC (334 Airport Rd, Butler 16002)

• April 11, Wednesday - Seneca UMC (196 East State Rd, Seneca 15346) Register

• April 17, Tuesday - Bethany UMC (700 Farren St, Portage 15946)

• April 18, Wednesday - Cochran Memorial UMC (206 Griscom St, Dawson 15428)

• April 19, Thursday – North Huntingdon: Christ UMC (2800 Coulterville Rd, McKeesport 15131) 

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NEJ UMVIM Academy on Wednesday, April 11th to Saturday, April 14th, at Pecometh Camp, 136 Bookers Wharf Road, Centreville, Maryland 21617. The Academy brings together mission leaders and instructors from UMCOR, Global Ministries and more. Among the courses will be specific preparation to serve in Puerto Rico, how to welcome those displace by disasters of all kinds intro your community, UMCOR courses, and possible chainsaw certification. Many courses provide lessons you can use immediately and can be submitted for CEUs. If interested, contact Rev. Calvin Cook, revcalvincook@.

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50 Career in Ministry Scholarships: CM CARES, the Church Mutual Insurance Company Foundation, has announced that it is now accepting applications for its second annual Religious Scholarship Program, offering up to $250,000 in scholarships to graduate and doctoral students who are committed to a career in ministry.

Scholars who wish to apply must be enrolled full-time in an advanced degree program in theology, ministry, or other field of religious study at an accredited theological seminary, college, or university during the 2018-19 academic year. Complete details Deadline: April 14, 2018

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Franklin District Potato Project: Thousands of needy families in the Franklin District area are set to receive 45,000 pounds of potatoes on Saturday, April 14, 2018. The potatoes will be given to area churches, food pantries, and organizations such as The Salvation Army to distribute. The potatoes are FREE, but we need your generous donation to the FRANKLIN DISTRICT POTATO PROJECT to care for packaging and trucking costs. Help us help the growing number of families in need again this year!

 

PLEASE REMIT ALL FUNDS TO THE WPA CONFERENCE TREASURER MARKED FOR THE “FRANKLIN DISTRICT POTATO PROJECT”. (WPA UMC Treasurer, PO Box 5002, Cranberry Twp., PA 16066-0002)

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Nuts and Bolts of Boomer and Older Adult Ministry 2018 → on Sunday, April 15 from 2:30 - 9 p.m. & Monday, April 16 from 8:30 a.m. - 4 p.m. at Delmont: Faith UMC, 305 Freeport St, Delmont, PA 15626 this practical time will be led by Rev. Dr. Will Randolph. Formerly of WPA, Rev. Will Randolph is the Director of Aging and Older Adult Ministries for the United Methodist Church. 

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mini Mission u from Sunday, April 15 to Tuesday, April 17, 2018 at Olmsted Manor, 17 E Main St, Ludlow, PA 16333. Spiritual Growth Theme – Living as a Covenant Community. Leader: Rev. Lisa Grant. Contact Diane Miller diane.miller2747@ or Dara Sterling dara.sterling@. Details to be announced.

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Ecumenical Training Scholarships Available: The Council of Bishops is offering scholarships of $300 for young adults (age 21-35) to attend the 2018 UM Ecumenical and Interreligious Training and the National Workshop on Christian Unity (NWCU) in Silver Spring, MD from April 16-19. Deadline February 28. [pic]

The Congregational Care Ministry Seminar on April 19 - 21 at The Church of the Resurrection, Leawood, KS campus. It is designed to train volunteers to become partners in ministry with pastors and staff to provide care for a congregation. Registration is limited.  Early bird pricing of $159 for the Seminar and $25 for the Pre-Conference is available through March 8. A Pre-Conference is offered Thursday, April 19 from 9:30-11:30 am as an opportunity to dig deeper into particular topics. Choose from 3 class options. For more information, please visit our webpage, ccm-seminar. Contact Kathy Carter at kathy.carter@ or 913-544-0272

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Poverty Summit: Several Conference teams are collaborating with the Poverty Team to plan the blockbuster anti-poverty event planned for Saturday, April 21, 2018.

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Save the Date: The Franklin District Conference will be on Sunday, April 29 at 3 pm at Knox UMC. Details TBA.

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Save the Date and Mark Your Calendar! Pastoral Transitions Seminar on Saturday, May 5, 2018 from 9:00 am -3:00 pm. Invitations will be sent to pastors in transition with details and location.

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UMW Gears Up for Assembly: The Power of Bold is the theme for the 19th quadrennial Assembly of United Methodist Women, set for May 18-20, 2018, in Columbus. Regular registration is $330. Includes two healthy lunches. Registration closes April 9, 2018.  Learn more  Watch video.

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Pastors Academy 2018: The annual Pastors Academy at Olmsted Manor will feature Dr. Jennifer McBride. It’s set for May 21-23. Get details. [pic]

Mental Health First Aid is an 8-hour course on Monday, June 4 that teaches you how to help someone who may be experiencing a mental health or substance use challenge. The training helps you identify, understand and respond to signs of addictions and mental illnesses. From 8:30 am – 5:30 pm at Clarion County MH/MR, 214 South 7th Ave, Clarion, PA 16214. Instructor: Jen Bankard at jbankard812@.

FAQ’s . Online registration

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Annual Conference Leadership Day: Nancy Beach, who served 20 years as teaching pastor at Willow Creek Church and now is a leadership coach, will be the speaker for the Annual Conference Day of Preparation workshop from 1-5 p.m. on Wednesday, June 6. She’ll focus on building healthy teams. All Annual Conference members are encouraged to attend both leadership training and a Bible Study planned for Wednesday evening. Save the date. Details will follow. Learn more about Nancy Beach.

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2018 Annual Conference: Wednesday, June 6 – Saturday, June 9, 2018. (Not on Sunday) [pic]

If your ministry efforts could use some extra helping hands,

explore these tips for turning volunteers into leaders.

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Convergence: Where Faith and Science Meet is a 9-day program (June 23-July 1, 2018) that allows rising 10th, 11th, and 12th grade students to come to Randolph-Macon’s campus in Ashland, Virginia and learn about the intersection of science and Christian faith.  They will dive deeper into their religious beliefs, deeper into the study of science, and will meet other high school students and Randolph-Macon College student leaders with those same interests.  There will be time in the classroom and outdoor experiences throughout the region.  The cost to participate is only $100 for this 9-day program.  Upon high school graduation, if a Convergence participant chooses to attend Randolph-Macon, they will receive a $1,000 annual scholarship for each year they participated in Convergence. Please visit the website to learn more.

If you would like to nominate a participant, click here to fill out the nomination form, and the Convergence staff will contact your nominee with further information.  The application form for participants is available here.  For questions about the program, please email convergence@rmc.edu.

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Unstoppable Women: The Unstoppable retreat for young women (high school - mid-20s) is scheduled for July 6-8 at Olmsted Manor retreat center. The cost is just $25 because Unstoppable Scholarships are available. Email Laramie (l.cowan@setonhill.edu) or Denise (dnstone24@) for scholarship details.

Visit the Unstoppable Facebook page:

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2018 Wesley Pilgrimage in England: Monday, July 9-Thursday, July 19. Explore places where the Wesley brothers lived and served on a 10-day immersion trip in Wesleyan missional leadership and a spiritual retreat. View an interactive map of the annual pilgrimage in England, featuring videos of pilgrims visiting the places where John and Charles Wesley lived and served. Registration information.

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Youth Mission u, for youth in grades 6-12 will be held at California University of PA, 250 University Ave, California, PA from Tuesday-Sunday, July 10-15. Registration opens soon. Brochure

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Mission u will be Thursday, July 12-Sunday, July 15 at California University of PA, 250 University Ave, California, PA 15149. Details to be announced. Contact Barbara Hess at Barbara.hess2936@.

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Taize Pilgrimage: WPAUMC young adults (ages 17-30) are invited to join in a life-changing pilgrimage to Taize, France from Friday, July 20-Monday, July 30. Get details.

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The 6th Annual Faith Night will be held on Friday, July 27, 2018 following the Pirates-Mets game at 7:05 p.m.  Enjoy discounted tickets for the Pirates-Mets game and stay after the game to hear Manager Clint Hurdle and your favorite Pirate players and coaches share their personal experiences with how their faith has impacted their lives and their careers in baseball specifically. It is highly recommended securing seats with a deposit.  Groups of 15 or more can secure a block of seats with a deposit, then will have until June 11 to give your final ticket count and pay the balance. Contact Chad Glover at chad.glover@ or 412-325-4756. [pic]

Save the dates- #SeeAllthePeople event on Friday, September 28 – Saturday, September 29 with Jorge Acevedo. Details to be announced.

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Mission of Peace is a yearly trip sponsored by the Northeast Jurisdiction of the UMC. It is on or about December 28, 2018-January 15, 2019 to the Philippines. Up to 4 youth can be accepted from each conference. On this trip, youth will get an immersion experience in another culture. Youth will meet other youth in churches and other civic organizations as well as worship with others in that country. Applications are due March 1 to Amanda Gilligan at Amanda.Gilligan@.

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The next national gathering of UM Youth will be July 10-14, 2019, in Kansas City, Missouri. Plan now for your youth to attend. The national gathering for UM Youth takes place every four years. YOUTH 2019 Media Kit!

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Job Posting: Grace United Methodist Church of Grove City, 210 S. Broad Street, Grove City, PA 16127 seeks a Praise Team Leader to provide excellent worship experiences on Sunday mornings focusing primarily on the Contemporary Worship Music at 10am and special services. Duties include one mid-week evening rehearsal of instrumentalists and vocalists, work on the worship planning team, attending monthly staff meetings and administrative tasks. If interested, call the church office at (724) 458-8660

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Job Posting: Lake Junaluska Seeks Executive Director: Lake Junaluska Conference and Retreat Center in Western NC seeks an executive director. Applications are being accepted through January. Get details.

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The new 2018 Jumonville summer camp brochure is ready! You can see it here online. Check out the 2018 summer camp schedule on the Jumonville website.

Jumonville Summer Camp Gift Certificates: Complete an online form here and you will receive the gift certificate in the mail so you can give it as a gift. That person's summer camp account will be credited with the amount of the gift certificate. You can also download this pdf file. Print the file, complete it and mail it to Jumonville with your check. We will follow up by mailing your Gift Certificate to the address that you provide.

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Truly Free Family Skate: Every Sunday night 4:30 – 6:30 pm at Skate Capital, 255 Old Salina Road, Seneca, PA.

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Eastbrook Mission Barn Truck. The Mission Barn purchased a truck since their Pathfinder was no longer dependable. Donations towards the cost of the truck will be welcomed. Donate online to the Mission Barn. Email Katie at missionbarn@ or call 724-856-9241.

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Commission on the Way Forward Resources: The Council of Bishops made available a booklet that contains resources the Commission on a Way Forward has used in its work, as well as information on three proposals for addressing the impasse around homosexuality. See booklet Read UMNS story on three proposed models

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Scholarship Fund for Deacons: A new scholarship for those pursuing deacon ordination has been set up with the General Board of Higher Education and Ministry added for those pursuing deacon ordination. It honors Rubie Butterworth, who dedicated her life to serving through the church. Lean more.

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2017 Rental/Housing Allowance Info has been posted on the Benefits page of the Conference website. It’s listed near the bottom of the page under miscellaneous and includes legislation and a worksheet. Go to benefits or simply download the PDF here.

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Small Church Leadership: “Can you just get them through until Christmas?” a district superintendent asked lay minister Margie Briggs after a shocking pastoral loss. Now, after 10 years as lay pastor at two rural churches in Missouri, she’s written a book she hopes will rekindle people’s faith in churches that have fewer than 100 members.” There is an urgent need for small churches both in declining rural areas and in impersonal metropolitan areas where many struggle with isolation and loneliness,” she says. Read more.

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Be More Methodist in 2018! From riding a horse to studying the Bible, here are 18 ways to connect. [pic]

Fish Fry Fridays: Submit the date of your church’s fish fry to be included on the Conference “Fish Fry Friday” list to Liz Lennox at liz.lennox@. Include the following information:

• Church

• Address

• Date of Dinner

• Time

• Cost

• What is Being Served

Any other additional info they might find important

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The WPA United Methodist Conference is offering paid summer internships for college and seminary students.  Specifics of the internships may be found here: 

collegeinternshipbrochure.pdf seminaryinternshipbrochure.pdf

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Washington District Clergy Peer Learning Group Study

February 20 – March 13, 2018

Text: “Living Faithfully: Human Sexuality and The United Methodist Church”

Overview: Organized around four questions: 1) Is the practice of homosexuality incompatible with Christian teaching; 2) Is same-gender marriage compatible with Christian teaching; 3) Is ordaining practicing homosexuals compatible with Christian teaching; and, 4) Where are we now? “Living Faithfully: Human Sexuality and The United Methodist Church” is a small group study designed to look at the background of the Bible, Christian theology, Church history, and The United Methodist Church’s structure and practice in an atmosphere of openness, humility, grace and love. Number of Sessions: 4

Participants: ALL active and retired clergy, including local pastors, deacons, elders, and clergy serving in extension ministry appointments

Facilitators: Steve Morse, Kelley Schanely, Dayton Mix Dale Roddy

Tuesday, February 20

Central Highlands Community UMC 10:00 – Noon Steve Morse, Facilitator

First UMC, Washington 2:00 – 4:00 Kelley Schanely, Facilitator

Crossroads UC, North Fayette Campus 2:00 – 4:00 Dale Roddy, Facilitator

First UMC Carmichaels 6:30 – 8:30 Dayton Mix, Facilitator

Tuesday, February 27

Central Highlands Community UMC 10:00 – Noon Steve Morse, Facilitator

First UMC, Washington 2:00 – 4:00 Kelley Schanely, Facilitator

Crossroads UC, North Fayette Campus 2:00 – 4:00 Dale Roddy, Facilitator

First UMC Carmichaels 7:00 – 9:00 Dayton Mix, Facilitator

Tuesday, March 6

Central Highlands Community UMC 10:00 – Noon Steve Morse, Facilitator

First UMC, Washington 2:00 – 4:00 Kelley Schanely, Facilitator

Crossroads UC, North Fayette Campus 2:00 – 4:00 Dale Roddy, Facilitator

First UMC Carmichaels 7:00 – 9:00 Dayton Mix, Facilitator

Tuesday, March 13

Central Highlands Community UMC 10:00 – Noon Steve Morse, Facilitator

First UMC, Washington 2:00 – 4:00 Kelley Schanely, Facilitator

Crossroads UC, North Fayette Campus 2:00 – 4:00 Dale Roddy, Facilitator

First UMC Carmichaels 7:00 – 9:00 Dayton Mix, Facilitator

Continuing Education Units Awarded for Attendance at All Sessions: Continuing Education Units: .5[pic]

Walking in Newness of Life:  The Society for St. Andrew (UMC Advance #801600), which partners with our denomination and the United Methodist Men to fight ease hunger, offers a 2018 Lenten Devotional for use by individuals or congregations. Order this week to receive in time for Lent. Get details.

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Cleaning Bucket Update: If you or your church has been collecting silicone packets to be placed in UMCOR cleaning buckets, please note that UMCOR is no longer accepting donated packets. Katie Peterson of the Mission Barn reports that UMCOR will now purchase packets to ensure they are the needed size and type.

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New- Suggestions for Churches with a Young Pastor: Churches that receive a young pastor need to remember how lucky they are. Many congregations say they want a younger pastor, but few have the opportunity. Learn how you can support a young pastor with "To the Point: Suggestions for Churches with a Young Pastor."

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Easter Outreach: Help your congregation invite new people with customizable denominational tools available in eight designs. Apply a $150 discount code toward your purchase, excluding shipping charges, while supplies last! See what’s available

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New- Three ways to say “I love you”: A United Methodist pastor and couples’ coach gives tips to be year-round Valentines. Bonus: Top 10 rules for a happy marriage. Get tips. [pic]

New- UM Geography Quiz: Where in the world are United Methodists? Test your knowledge of the countries in which United Methodists live, work, play and pray. Take quiz. [pic]

New- Did you know? You can save money with Keystone United Methodist Federal Credit Union:

• No fee Checking Account – no required minimum balance or number of transactions

• Online Banking – save time and gas

• Debit Cards – save money on checks

• Bill Pay – save time, stamps and checks on regular checking AND HAS checking accounts

• Money Desktop – save money by setting your budget and tracking your spending

• 55,000 plus ATM’s – surcharge free

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New- BEWARE of Scams and Fraud during tax season (and all seasons). If you receive a call for immediate payment for taxes:

• Do NOT panic

• Do NOT provide personal info

• Do NOT pay

• Do research – to determine any validity to the call

• Do report – to the proper authorities

• Do reach out – to the credit union if you have questions regarding your account

Check for information regarding tax scams and fraud. Info provided by the Keystone UM FCU. [pic]

New- Worship Practices for Flu Season: With flu season in full swing and the highest number of cases reported in the U.S. since the Centers for Disease Control began keeping records 13 years ago, churches here and across the nation are modifying worship practices to guard against spreading the disease. Read more. [pic]

New- Poverty in Rural PA: The Center for Rural Pennsylvania, in its February newsletter, has an enlightening graphic depicting the state’s Rural Working Poor. See it The Center also offers a fact sheet/poll results on residents’ attitudes on causes of the Opioid Crisis. See it[pic]

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