May 2009Inside this Issue

We tend to Confuse Endings and Beginnings - Especially This Time of Year

The season of graduations is fast approaching. And students, some teachers, and not a few parents see this as the end of the educational process. Check that off the list! No more reading late into the night. No more papers about subjects that you know that you will never think about again.

But for persons who are fully alive there is no end to the educational process.

The same is true of confirmation, of joining the church. It is an act that can't be seen as an end and be true to its real meaning. Joining the church is a commitment to the action in the future. An attitude has sown itself in our culture… the culture in general and in local churches in particular… "Get them to join the church and then check that off the list!" That is a betrayal of the act itself. Joining the church is a commitment to a lifetime of adventure with Jesus… and nothing less.

Pray for our confirmands and for all members of this congregation, that the commitment we have made to Christ might move us forward to a life that grows ever closer to God.
- Alan

Inside this IssueArticle titles are given below each page title.

Parish Concerns: parish concerns page

We express love and sympathy; Congratulations

General News: general news page

Thank You; Caring Committee; Book Review: Lord, Save Us From Your Followers: Why is the Gospel of Love Dividing America? By Dan Merchant; Annual Church Picnic Planned; HScenes from "Emerge"; Mother's Day Flower Sale; Enjoy an Amazing Breakfast!; Just a Reminder; Calling All Green Thumbs!; Bridge Group Potluck in May; VBS Camp Edge!

Outreach Opportunities: general news page

Adult and Youth Mission Week; New Life Clothing Room Needs; Operation Sandwich; "Bag of Shared Blessings" Ministry

United Methodist Women: umw page

An Invitation From Deborah Circle; May Circle Meetings; Coffee Hour; Kroger Program Change

Family and Youth Informationfamily and youth page

Youth News 7th - 12th grade