The Wesley Crier February 2015 Page 1

The Wesley Crier E-mail: church@wesleyumc-dover.com Webpage: www.wesleyumc-dover.com Facebook: Wesley UMC Dover Twitter : @doverwesleyumc

OUR VISION

Historic Wesley Church in

downtown Dover, Delaware

is an open and welcoming

congregation, which makes

disciples of Jesus Christ by

proclaiming God’s love

through

✞A variety of Worship Ser-

vices which speaks to both

heart and mind,

✞Bible study, fellowship,

and nurture which lead to

meaningful and disciplined

Christian living,

✞Christian outreach minis-

tries which serve those near

and far,

✞Combined activities which

involve other area churches

and faith communities.

Wesley Church welcomes

all individuals and seeks to

minister to the spiritual and

physical needs and con-

cerns, as God reveals them

to us.

Members and neighbors of

all ages and stages in life,

The homeless, hungry, and

hurting,

Employees of the various

levels of government, in-

cluding the military,

People in the nearby educa-

tion and business communi-

ties.

Wesley Church’s promi-

nent steeple is a sign of our commitment to our vi-

sion and is a beacon of

faith, hope, and love in this

state capital.

Lent

“Lent is a season of forty days, not counting

Sundays, which begins on Ash Wednesday

and ends on Holy Saturday. Lent comes from the Anglo-Saxon word lenc-

ten, which means “spring.” The season is a preparation for celebrating

Easter. Historically, Lent began as a period of fasting and preparation for

baptism by converts and then became a time for penance by all Christians.

Because Sundays are always little Easters, the penitential spirit of Lent

should be tempered with joyful expectation of the Resurrection.

The Great Three Days-sometimes called the Triduum or Pasch- from sunset

Holy Thursday through sunset Easter Day are the climax of Lent (and of

the whole Christian year) and a bridge into the Easter Season. These days

proclaim the paschal mystery of Jesus Christ’s passion, death, and resur-

rection. During these days, the community journeys with Jesus from the

upper room, to the cross, to the tomb, and to the garden. They should be

seen as a great unified service beginning with a service of Holy Commun-

ion on Holy Thursday and concluding with the services of Easter

Day.” (United Methodist Book of Worship)

This year, Lent begins on Ash Wednesday, Feb. 18. We will again have Ash

Wednesday worship at noon in the chapel and, at seven in the sanctuary.

We will be using Richard Schnase’s book “Five Practices of Fruitful Living”

which is a sequel to “Five Practices of Fruitful Congregations” to guide our

worship and noon time study on Wednesdays. See the article in this issue

on worship themes for more details.

On Wednesday evenings Feb. 11, 25, March 4, 11, 18, 25, and April 1, I

will be leading a Wednesday evening study on Creation Care. This will

begin each night at 6:30 with a vegetarian meal (I am looking forward to

cooking!) We will then continue until 8:00 with the study. We will look at

being good stewards of our own health, and good stewards of all creation,

listening to the Words of Scripture and the teachings of the church.

As you may know, Lent is a traditional time for fasting. Many Christians

choose to fast from meat for the Lenten season. I encourage you to

prayerfully consider doing so. The money you save on your grocery bills

could be used for relief of the poor.

Fasting, or abstinence, focuses attention on our need for God. Rev. Dr.

Steven Manskar writes “Wesley identifies five grounds or reasons for fast-

ing: sorrow for sin, bodily health, avoidance of excessive consumption, self

-punishment, and as an aid to prayer. The union of fasting to prayer was

especially important for Wesley, who saw it as a means of confirming and

increasing, not only virtue, not chastity only (as some have idly imagined

without any ground either from Scripture, reason, or experience), but also

Continued on page 3

The Wesley Crier February 2015 Page 2

INSIDE THIS ISSUE:

Pastor Amy’s Column 1/3

New Member Classes 2

United Methodist Men 2

BOXTOP$ 2

Questions for Reflection

During Lent

3

Christian Education 4/5

Worship Plans 5

Family Life 6

Dover Interfaith Ministry for Housing

7/8

Social Principles 9/10

Worship Leader 11

Kent Ecumenical Food & Crisis Fund

11

Finance Year End Update 12

Prayer Shawl Ministry 12

United Methodist Women 13

Discretionary Fund Annual Update

14

Children and Youth Music Ministries

14

Testimony 15

Pecometh 16

Birthday Calendar 17

Church Calendar 17

Recurring Meetings 18

Ash Wednesday Services 18

Staff E-mail Addresses 18

United Methodist Men By: Ralph Deats

The UMM have the responsibility for delivering the Food Pantry donations to the First Baptist

Church, distribution center. The last five months we delivered 1,584 lbs. (Sep-480, Oct-196, Nov-700, Dec-280, Jan-164).

Thanks for your donations for our brothers and sisters in need.

The UMM have our " Ladies Night-Out " social on Wednesday, February 11, 2015, at 5:00 p.m. at Where Pigs Fly. Following the meal, we plan to attend the Wesley College Bas-

ketball game. Those wishing to attend, please contact, Ralph Deats at (302) 734-7010.

NEW MEMBER CLASSES Interested in becoming a member

of Wesley Church? Trying to decide if you’d like to become a member?

Please join us for a series of four new member classes which will be starting in early March, where you’ll

have the opportunity to learn about Methodism in general and Wesley UMC in particular. If you’re

interested in attending, please contact the church office at 302-678-9626 or Pastor Gail at 919-627-3161 or gail@wesleyumc-dover.com. Dates and times of meetings will be determined

based on the schedules of those wishing to attend.

BOXTOP$

We all shop for groceries, some-times two or three times a week –-

or more. Now turn those shopping trips into easy cash for Wesley Pre-school, and encourage friends to do

the same! Just look for the Box Top$ logo on hundreds of products like Cheerios®, Hamburg-

er Helper® and Kleenex®, in almost every aisle of the store. All you need to do is clip and bring them to the church when you come on Sunday, or any time you are coming to

the church. Place your Box Top$ in the container in the hall-way. Each Box Top$ is worth 10¢ which helps Wesley Pre-

school buy supplies and equipment. To get a complete list of products that have Box Top$ on them, simply go to http://www.boxtops4education.com or

you can pick the list up on the table near the Christian Educa-tion office.

The Wesley Crier February 2015 Page 3

Lent Continued from page 1

seriousness of spirit, earnestness, sensibility and tenderness of conscience; deadness to the world, and

consequently the love of God and every holy and heavenly affection.

For Wesley, fasting is a means for removing barriers that we erect between ourselves and God. It is a

real emptying of self that makes room for the Holy Spirit to replace sinful habits and attitudes with holy

habits. Fasting is a means for maintaining a healthy orientation away from sin and toward the cross. It

teaches self-denial and discipline that facilitates prayer and searching the Scripture.

Fasting is also one of the means of grace that helps create a concrete connection between the life of fol-

lowing Christ and living in solidarity with the poor. It allows those who practice it to experience some of

the suffering and sorrow that are a normal part of the life of poverty; namely never having enough of

what is needed for life. Fasting leads to a life of simplicity. Wesley believed "fasting is the avoidance of

excessive consumption of food, along with a 'carelessness and levity of spirit' and an increase in 'foolish

and unholy desires, yea, unclean and vile affections' which accompany such consumption."14 Fasting

helps to lead us away from dependence upon and consumption of things, which leads to idolatry, and

leads us into a deeper relationship with Christ and the simplicity of his life. It helps to set us free from

our "stuff" so we can more faithfully, and without fear, draw closer to the poor.” (A Disciple’s Journal,

Year B , Steven Manskar)

Another way to fast is to fast from a meal or two per day every week. A “traditional Methodist fast” is to

fast from two meals, typically on a Friday. So you might eat dinner and then eat dinner again the next

evening. See the article in this issue for insights about fasting how to’s and reflections.

“In the Wesleyan tradition in which we live, there are spiritual practices called “The Means of Grace”

which propel us along the way of salvation; they are the entry point for salvation. They are spiritual dis-

ciplines described in Scripture. Our tradition has always held a balance of “works of mercy” and “works

of piety.” Works of mercy are doing no harm, avoiding evil, and doing good. Works of mercy can be de-

scribed as acts of compassion and justice. Works of piety include private and family prayer, searching

the Scriptures, the Lord’s Supper, the public worship of God, and fasting or abstinence. If you think of a

cross, the horizontal axis represents works of mercy, in which we reach out to others. The vertical axis

represents acts of piety, in which we are in relationship with God.” (Steven Manskar)

During Lent, I invite you to practice the Means of Grace as re reflect upon the five practices of fruitful

living together. -- Pastor Amy

Questions for Reflection During Lent (as outlined by Dr. Laurence Hull Stookey)

“The Lenten discipline is a self-examination that seeks greater conformity to the mind of Christ, and

more effective ministry on behalf of the world (which is what true devotion is all about). In this perspec-

tive, Lenten disciplines are not temporary deletions or additions but spiritual exercises that permanently

alter us.”

What progress am I making in gladly sharing what I have with others, especially the poor and the

stranger?

What attitudes do I convey to people who irritate me? How can awareness of my need for God’s

grace help me be more gracious?

How has my sense of interconnectedness with my community in worship grown? How can I in-

crease my appreciation of the contributions of others?

Am I as charitable and thoughtful to family members as I am to others? Or do I “take it out” on

my family when life is hectic?

Can I redistribute my long-range personal budget so that I have more money to give away?

When I hear someone being unjustly spoken about, do I speak out or am I a silent accomplice?

In what way can I be more effective and consistent in supporting legislation and social programs

that help the disadvantaged rather than hurt them? Continued on page 8

The Wesley Crier February 2015 Page 4

Christian Education By: Chris Countryman

The New Year is off and running, and I hope you are not trying to play catch-up, but that’s

how it often turns out, isn’t it? We have so much going on and with seemingly so little time to get it all done. What if we simplified our lives, would we even know where to begin, would we truly want that, or does a part of us love the chaos? This past year I have taken a simplified

approach to our student ministry; my number one priority is teaching students the pure Gospel of Jesus Christ. Here are our top three priorities: 1) reaching students with the Gospel, 2) dis-

cipling students, 3) strengthening our leaders.

I know the youth ministry down the street has 100 students, the one across town has a booming concert every week with tons of teens and the youth ministry next to them is reach-

ing kids in their community and serving the poor. Shouldn’t we be doing all of those things, shouldn’t we do as much as possible? No! We should do what God has called us to do. We do

not need to emulate any and every other ministry or youth group. Our ministry should be built on the very command that Jesus gave to his disciples after his resurrection, “Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of

the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe everything I have commanded you.” (Mathew 28:19-20) Jesus wants others to know about this good news he is offering, he wants others to live a

life of freedom that is only found in him and to no longer be enslaved to their sin. Our call is to be a holy people that lay down our lives, our pride, our way of doing things and to follow him. We are to trust Jesus even though the path he sets for us is a path that leads to our death. It

is in this death, where we find life; we arise from the grave new people, with God’s Spirit now living within us. The same spirit that raised Jesus from the grave now resides within you and

me and all who have surrendered to Jesus.

This is our Student Ministries number one goal, our top priority, and we do this through our Sunday night meetings and through amazing weekends like Youth Rally. This past Youth Rally

was incredible, 37 of us carpooled down to Ocean City, MD, to worship Jesus and I believe all of us left that weekend, encouraged, motivated, convicted, or as an entirely NEW person.

Thank you to everyone that prayed for our youth and thank you to all of our families that sup-ported and encouraged your kids to attend. I believe you will begin to see the difference in them.

Which leads me to our second and third priorities. It is incredible when students give their life to Jesus, but many of them don’t know what that looks like and all of them need to have people of faith in their life to help them spiritually mature. It’s not complicated, in fact it’s pret-

ty simple; it is by no means easy; it takes work, a lot of work and sacrifice; but the plan is pretty simple to follow. Love God, Love students, teach His word and trust He will save. When

He saves them, lead them, and strengthen our leaders so there are more laborers doing the work. Sure, there are other components to our ministry: outreach events, missions, small

groups, mentoring. But they only exist because they are part of reaching our goals, not just for the sake of doing them so we can say, “ We do this, this, this and oh yeah, this too.” I can care less about impressing people with a bunch of frantic religious activity. My concern is being

faithful to the ministry that God has called me to. I believe we get off track when we try to do everything, whether in our respective jobs, our churches or our families. What is God calling you to cut out, what does He want you to focus

more time and energy on? Have you lost sight of God. Is He your top priority anymore?

I know from experience, as much as I would love to say He always is my top priority, He has

not been and I am not the only one that suffers when that happens. My wife suffers, as I don’t love her the way God has called me to, my kids suffer as I fail to lead them in the way God has

Continued on page 5

The Wesley Crier February 2015 Page 5

Worship Plans By: Pastor Amy Yarnall

On January 18, we began a five week sermon series “Spiritual Leadership.” If you want to catch up on the series, you may listen to it by going to our website and

choosing the worship tab. Each week has an audio recording; some weeks also have video.

The first week, Jan. 18, we talked about the importance of Modeling the Way. Then on Jan. 25

we talked about the importance of vision. On Feb. 1 we will be reflecting upon how we chal-lenge the process when it’s time for a change. Feb. 8 is about enabling other people to act and

Feb. 15 is about encouragement. It is so very important to be an encouraging presence in the lives of others. The goal of the series is to help us recognize that we all exercise spiritual leadership in our

families, in our schools and workplaces, by virtue of being a disciple of Jesus Christ. Even if we are not the person or persons who are officially “in charge”, how we live matters, and has an

effect on those around us.

Ash Wednesday falls on Feb. 18 this year. We will again have worship at noon and at seven. During the season of Lent, we will be focusing upon a book by Robert Schnase “Five Practices

of Fruitful Living.” During Worship these will be our themes:

Lent 1- 2/22/15: To receive God’s love… Genesis 9: 8-17; Mark 1:9-15 Lent 2 -3/1/15: To love God in return… Genesis 17: 1-7; 15-16; Mark 8: 31-38

Lent 3 -3/8/15: To grow in Christ… 1 Cor. 1:18-25; John 2: 13-22 Lent 4- 3/15/15: To serve others… Numbers 21: 4-9; John 3: 14-21

Lent 5- 3/22/15: To give ourselves fully… Jeremiah 31:31-34; John 12: 20-33 Palm Passion Sunday: 3/29/15 …Mark 14:1-15:47 Easter: 4/5/15 …Mark 16:1-8

This series has a devotional guide that accompanies it, books are available in the

church office. Devotional - $8.50, Study Guide - $11.00, for your use. If you are able to give the purchase price, we are grateful for that. Please do not let finances keep you from using the guide. There is also a book, which will be used for the

small group study during Lent on Wednesdays at noon and seven. (This is a book series, not video)

Christian Education continued from page 4

called me to, and the students suf-

fer as I lean on my own ways to do ministry instead of surrendering to God’s will for this ministry. We don’t

have to do everything; we have to be obedient to what God has called us to.

This New Year, simplify your life and start by renewing your relationship with God. I promise you He is more than

worth it.

In Christ,

Chris Countryman Christian Ed/Youth/Young Adult Director

2015 Youth Rally, Ocean City , Maryland

The Wesley Crier February 2015 Page 6

Family Life Report By: Jim & Sandi Thistlewood and Mardi Spangler

The family life committee has just completed a very busy Advent Season. Hopefully some of our activi-

ties touched your heart and your life. We as a committee are very pleased to announce we have add-

ed two new members to our group. Welcome Perry Bratcher and Kim Utley. They join us with new

enthusiasm and lots of great ideas. We look forward to working with them in the coming months.

Living Nativity - We had record attendance at the Living Nativity this year. A large number of folks

were able to see the real meaning of this season of the year. God provided another warm winter night

so we were thankful for those who stayed out the entire two hours. Many of the City Officials were

glad to see us back after a year off due to dislocation of the event last year. Thanks be to God for our

prime location. A special thanks to Nancy Franks for making us new costume accessories.

Advent Dinner - We held our Advent Dinner on the second Sunday of Advent. We had approximate-

ly 150 people in attendance. We were privileged to have the Dover High School Jazz band to entertain

us during dinner with sounds of the Season. We enjoyed great food, fellowship and fun. This was a

wonderful opportunity for introducing friends and neighbors to the church family.

Breakfast with Santa - This event was well attended with approximately 35 children and 40 adults.

Everyone was treated to a big breakfast, followed by a visit with Santa where each child had time to

talk with him. Each child received a book from Santa. After Santa left the audience was treated to a

presentation by “Louder than Words”. This was a wonderful mime group of young people who por-

trayed some of the Bible miracles without the use of words. This was a very moving experience for all

ages. A special thanks to Nancy and Stuart Vaughan for their help in the kitchen again this year.

Family Life wishes to thank everyone who came out to the activities in 2014. We strive to provide

something for every age. Without your participation the activities would not be a blessing. We wel-

come ideas and invite you to watch the calendar for our upcoming 2015 events.

Living Nativity

Advent Dinner

Breakfast

with Santa Entertainment

The Wesley Crier February 2015 Page 7

Dover Interfaith Ministry for Housing

Greetings and Happy New Year! “I didn’t know that anyone cared about people like us.” This is one of the many things heard

by DIMH board member and Education and Training Coordinator Breeta Littlefield as she opened our long-awaited Resource Center this week. Breeta, her husband John, board mem-bers Jessie Green and Herb Konowitz, and DIMH friend Tony DePrima worked hard to get this

daytime center open in the double-wide trailer donated to DIMH some time ago. We are grateful to all of them and to our many friends in local Rotary Clubs whose efforts made this

possible. The DIMH Resource Center is open to all homeless adults who need a place in the daytime to rest or to have access to shower and laundry facilities. Guests may use it as their address

for mail (684 G Forest Street.) The Center is furnished with comfortable couches and chairs along with two meeting tables, two offices, and two small rooms in which one may sit and re-

lax or meet with a small group. One cold morning this week, Breeta found 35 people waiting to use the Center at 8:15 a.m.!

A total of 45 individuals visited that day. Breeta reports that all guests have been polite and helpful, participating in cleaning up and keeping the place as their local “living room.” The volunteers staffing the Center are prepared to refer guests to local services, assist with

job applications, or simply to talk, to listen, or to play games and assemble jigsaw puzzles. A telephone is available for local calls along with computers with internet access. Classes will be

held on job preparation and application, personal financial management, and on “life skills” to help those in need to find their way to a productive life in our community. Guests coming from Code Purple sanctuaries are able to use showers as early as 7:30 a.m.

at the Resource Center. Dover Downs recently donated towels, while Kent County Levy Court covered the purchase of a commercial washer and dryer. Many in the community have donat-

ed small toiletry items from their travels. These are appreciated and continue to be accepted along with laundry detergent. There is a wonderful atmosphere inside, with the washer and dryer quietly humming as peo-

ple talk, work on computers, and watch TV. Guests are encouraged to take advantage of lunch at the Salvation Army on days when that facility is open, at Mt. Zion AME church another

day each week, with DIMH organizing simple lunches on other days. Volunteers are needed, and training is provided. If you are interested in helping keep the Center open during daytime hours, please let us know by calling 736-3600 or by emailing us at

interfaithdover@verizon.net. Walt Bagley Hall to Open Soon! - While we have told you for months that our new congre-

gate housing facility will be opening on Walker Road, we can now say that only a final inspec-tion is needed prior to opening. Kitchen equipment is being installed, and we hope that furni-ture can be moved in this week to get ready for our initial residents.

“Gals That Give” is a local group of philanthropically-minded women who hosted a dinner to Benefit DIMH on Thursday, January 15th . This is was a event which provided an opportunity

for women to network and to learn about active programs in our community. Code Purple - The network of “Code Purple” cold-weather sanctuaries continues to expand and is becoming more widely utilized by local homeless men, women, and families. A great

committee manages this effort and is always looking for volunteers and donations. We have a good supply of food at the moment; however, this will be depleted to a considerable extent as

we face Code Purple conditions over the week ahead. Please consider cooking something to contribute during February. Our Needs - We are most appreciative of the generosity shown by so many in our communi-

ty for both Code Purple and the men’s shelter. Needs for the shelter, for Code Purple sanctu-aries, and for the Resource Center include the following items, which may be brought to DIMH:

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Men’s boxer shorts (sizes small to XL), hats, gloves, and scarves for men, women, and chil-

dren, breakfast foods (cereal, coffee, creamer, sugar, hot cups, plastic spoons, milk, etc.), snacks to go (granola bars and other small individually-wrapped items). Collaboration with Wesley Clothing Closet - We are most grateful to Wesley United Methodist

Church on State Street for their volunteers who continue to operate the Clothing Closet. We have a system of referrals both from the shelter and from Code Purple for those who need

clothing. Please take your clothing donations directly to Wesley’s Clothing Closet on North Street on Monday and Friday mornings before 11:00 a.m. If you take them to DIMH, we have to transport them to Wesley.

Our Thanks and Best Wishes - Thanks to all of you for your concern and support. It is amaz-ing and wonderful to see the level of compassion and generosity exhibited by the people of

Greater Dover. We look forward to continuing to engage you in our mission so that everyone has a warm place to stay and hope in their hearts for a better life during the coming year.

Happy New Year to all!

Blessings, Jeanine Klimo

Steps for Fasting (by Marjorie Thompson)

Prepare spiritually-- fasting must be centered on God. Therefore, ask for God’s help. Ask for an under-

standing of the spiritual dimension of fasting. When temptation arises, ask God for relief.

Do not fast if you are ill, traveling, or under stress. If you have any concerns about your health, contact

your physician first. Fasting depletes our energy levels, so plan to reduce normal activities while fast-

ing.

To begin practicing fasting, you may want to try a partial fast. This lasts no more than 24 hours and

may include drinking only fruit juices during this period.

It is most common to begin fasting after supper and fast until the following night’s supper; you may fast

from lunch to lunch or breakfast to breakfast if you prefer. In this way, you are missing two meals.

This may be repeated once per week for several weeks. After four to five weeks, you will be ready to

try a normal fast of only water during the twenty-four hours. Drink plenty of water.

A fast should be broken with a light, non-fatty meal, usually fruits and vegetables.

Further insight on Fasting:

1. If you are fasting for a particular prayer concern, you may say a prayer every time you feel hunger pangs. 2. Another aspect of fasting is to pledge to the Lord the money you would ordinarily spend on food. 3. Fasting for repentance is another path. This includes confession of sin and guilt as part of the fast.

4. Journaling while fasting can heighten spiritual understanding during fasting. You may ask questions

like: How do I respond to hunger pangs? What feelings come with the experience of physical empti-

ness -- panic, irritation, boredom, helplessness? How do I express these? Do I sense any inward

cleansing, release, or freedom? Do I feel a need to draw the attention of other people to my fast?

Am I experiencing fresh attentiveness to God? Do I feel connected to others in new ways? What is

God revealing to me through my responses to these questions?

Abstinence

1. You may feel called to abstain from other types of consumption to learn to enjoy God’s many gifts.

2. Examples include (but are not limited to) fasting from: television, radio, movies, shopping,

computers/internet, judging others, gossip, judging ourselves too harshly, over-crowded schedules.

The question to ask is: what do I do to excess that reveals the control these things have over me?

The Wesley Crier February 2015 Page 9

Social Principles

The Natural World

All creation is the Lord’s, and we are responsible for the ways in which we use and abuse it. Water, air,

soil, minerals, energy resources, plants, animal life, and space are to be valued and conserved because

they are God’s creation and not solely because they are useful to human beings. God has granted us

stewardship of creation. We should meet these stewardship duties through acts of loving care and re-

spect. Economic, political, social, and technological developments have increased our human numbers,

and lengthened and enriched our lives. However, these developments have led to regional defoliation,

dramatic extinction of species, massive human suffering, overpopulation, and misuse and overconsump-

tion of natural and nonrenewable resources, particularly by industrialized societies. This continued course

of action jeopardizes the natural heritage that God has entrusted to all generations. Therefore, let us

recognize the responsibility of the church and its members to place a high priority on changes in eco-

nomic, political, social, and technological lifestyles to support a more ecologically equitable and sustaina-

ble world leading to a higher quality of life for all of God’s creation.

Water, Air, Soil, Minerals, Plants

We support and encourage social policies that serve to reduce and control the creation of industrial by-

products and waste; facilitate the safe processing and disposal of toxic and nuclear waste and move to-

ward the elimination of both; encourage reduction of municipal waste; provide for appropriate recycling

and disposal of municipal waste; and assist the cleanup of polluted air, water, and soil. We call for the

preservation of old-growth forests and other irreplaceable natural treasures, as well as preservation of

endangered plant species. We support measures designed to maintain and restore natural ecosystems.

We support policies that develop alternatives to chemicals used for growing, processing, and preserving

food, and we strongly urge adequate research into their effects upon God’s creation prior to utilization.

We urge development of international agreements concerning equitable utilization of the world’s re-

sources for human benefit so long as the integrity of the earth is maintained. We are deeply concerned

about the privatization of water resources, the bottling of water to be sold as a commodity for profit, and

the resources that go into packaging bottled water. We urge all municipalities and other governmental

organizations to develop processes for determining sustainability of water resources and to determine

the environmental, economic, and social consequences of privatization of water resources prior to the

licensing and approval thereof.

Energy Resources Utilization

The whole earth is God’s good creation and as such has inherent value. We are aware that the current

utilization of energy resources threatens this creation at its very foundation. As members of The United

Methodist Church we are committed to approaching creation, energy production, and especially crea-

tion’s resources in a responsible, careful and economic way. We call upon all to take measures to save

energy. Everybody should adapt his or her lifestyle to the average consumption of energy that respects

the limits of the planet earth. We encourage persons to limit CO2 emissions toward the goal of one tonne

per person annually. We strongly advocate for the priority of the development of renewable energies.

The deposits of carbon, oil, and gas resources are limited and their continuous utilization accelerates

global warming. The use of nuclear power is no solution for avoiding CO2 emissions. Nuclear power

plants are vulnerable, unsafe, and potential health risks. A safe, permanent storage of nuclear waste

cannot be guaranteed. It is therefore not responsible to future generations to operate them. The produc-

tion of agricultural fuels and the use of biomass plants rank lower than the provision of safe food sup-

plies and the continued existence for small farming businesses.

Animal Life

We support regulations that protect and conserve the life and health of animals, including those ensuring

the humane treatment of pets, domesticated animals, animals used in research, wildlife, and the pain-

less slaughtering of meat animals, fish, and fowl. We recognize unmanaged and managed commercial,

multinational, and corporate exploitation of wildlife and the destruction of the ecosystems on which they

depend threatens the balance of natural systems, compromises biodiversity, reduces resilience, and

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threatens ecosystem services. We encourage commitment to effective implementation of national and

international governmental and business regulations and guidelines for the conservation of all animal

species with particular support to safeguard those threatened with extinction.

Global Climate Stewardship

We acknowledge the global impact of humanity’s disregard for God’s creation. Rampant industrialization

and the corresponding increase in the use of fossil fuels have led to a buildup of pollutants in the earth’s

atmosphere. These “greenhouse gas” emissions threaten to alter dramatically the earth’s climate for

generations to come with severe environmental, economic, and social implications. The adverse impacts

of global climate change disproportionately affect individuals and nations least responsible for the emis-

sions. We therefore support efforts of all governments to require mandatory reductions in greenhouse

gas emissions and call on individuals, congregations, businesses, industries, and communities to reduce

their emissions.

Space

The universe, known and unknown, is the creation of God and is due the respect we are called to give

the earth. We therefore reject any nation’s efforts to weaponize space and urge that all nations pursue

the peaceful and collaborative development of space technologies and of outer space itself.

Science and Technology

We recognize science as a legitimate interpretation of God’s natural world. We affirm the validity of the

claims of science in describing the natural world and in determining what is scientific. We preclude sci-

ence from making authoritative claims about theological issues and theology from making authoritative

claims about scientific issues. We find that science’s descriptions of cosmological, geological, and biolog-

ical evolution are not in conflict with theology. We recognize medical, technical, and scientific technolo-

gies as legitimate uses of God’s natural world when such use enhances human life and enables all of

God’s children to develop their God-given creative potential without violating our ethical convictions

about the relationship of humanity to the natural world. We reexamine our ethical convictions as our

understanding of the natural world increases. We find that as science expands human understanding of

the natural world, our understanding of the mysteries of God’s creation and word are enhanced. In ac-

knowledging the important roles of science and technology, however, we also believe that theological

understandings of human experience are crucial to a full understanding of the place of humanity in the

universe. Science and theology are complementary rather than mutually incompatible. We therefore en-

courage dialogue between the scientific and theological communities and seek the kind of participation

that will enable humanity to sustain life on earth and, by God’s grace, increase the quality of our com-

mon lives together.

Food Safety

We support policies that protect the food supply and that ensure the public’s right to know the content

of the foods they are eating. We call for rigorous inspections and controls on the biological safety of all

foodstuffs intended for human consumption. We urge independent testing for chemical residues in food,

and the removal from the market of foods contaminated with potentially hazardous levels of pesticides,

herbicides, or fungicides; drug residues from animal antibiotics, steroids, or hormones; contaminants

due to pollution that are carried by air, soil, or water from incinerator plants or other industrial opera-

tions. We call for clear labeling of all processed, genetically created, or genetically altered foods, with

premarket safety testing required. We oppose weakening the standards for organic foods. We call for

policies that encourage and support a gradual transition to sustainable and organic agriculture.

Food Justice

We support policies that increase access to quality food, particularly for those with the fewest resources.

We affirm local, sustainable, and small-scale agriculture opportunities that allow communities to feed

themselves. We decry policies that make food inaccessible to the communities where it is grown and the

farmworkers involved in its growth.

From The Book of Discipline of The United Methodist Church - 2012.

Copyright 2012 by The United Methodist Publishing House. Used by permission.

The Wesley Crier February 2015 Page 11

Wesley UMC Worship Band By: Tim Plimpton

Currently seeking: bass guitarist

To anyone interested in joining or participating with the band -- please contact me

(tim@wesleyumc-dover.com). The band currently rehearses in the choir room on

Thursday evenings at 8:30 p.m.

Band members should be in one of two categories:

1. Regular/Weekly members: these members commit to playing/singing every Sun-

day and being at every Thursday evening rehearsal. They agree to notify me in advance of expected

absences so that appropriate arrangements can be made.

2. Rotating members: these members are not committed to a specific number or services or a spe-

cific schedule, but sign up in advance to participate in worship on an individual Sunday (or set of

Sundays). These members may fill in for absent weekly members or augment the ensemble. The

requirement to participate in the band for any given Sunday is to inquire with me in advance of

Thursday and attend that evening's rehearsal.

If you are brand new to the worship band, I would ask that we set up a time for a short (and informal)

audition so that I can be sure to put your gifts to the best use. Also, I may need to ask that individuals

refrain from participating in parts of the service in an effort to keep the instrumentation balanced. Ver-

satility and flexibility is encouraged!

Thank you all for the warm welcome, and I look forward to serving with Wesley Church in 2015!

This is a note to thank you and everyone at Wesley UMC for your continued and faithful support of

Kent Ecumenical. It is clear that your support is critical to the program.

Our records reflect that during 2014, we received checks written on the Wesley account totaling

$2,107. We also received 50 checks in varying amounts from individual Wesley members. Thank you for

your generosity.

During 2014 Kent Ecumenical wrote a total of 158 checks to provide help to our brothers and sisters

in need. These checks were generally in the $100-125 range. In by far the most common instance, we

would respond to a request from the Williams State Service Center. The Social Service Specialist there

would request that we help someone with a utility bill or rent, and provide us with a brief explanation

why the help was appropriate. These are often folks who do not qualify for various other programs that

the Center has available.

We pray that this work can continue, with your support and the support of others in the faith commu-

nity that will be so. My email is listed below should you have any questions. Thanks again and may God

bless you.

Faithfully,

William M. Reed, Treasurer (willmreed@aol.com)

The Wesley Crier February 2015 Page 12

Finance Year End Update By Richard Satter

We have now closed the books for our 2014 calendar year.

Thank you for your generous support of ministry here at Wesley.

Your generosity made it possible for us to live out our mission to

proclaim God’s love by providing spiritual nurture to those who have

accepted Christ as their Lord and Savior, and witnessing his love to those who have not yet accepted

him; and by providing for the needs of the human community as God reveals them to us.

The General Fund had an annual 2014 budget of $603,114. At the end of the year, we received total

revenue of $622,111. This gave us a surplus of $18,997 over budget. Annual expenses came in at

$595, 902. This translates to a total of $26,209 in surplus revenue for 2014.

As has been the case for many years, the annual budget was supported by the General Endowment in

two ways. The standard formula of interest income provided $35,448.00. At the May 2014 Council Meet-

ing, we had also approved a special draw for 2014 of $30,000. In hindsight, we could have foregone

more of the special draw. However, hindsight is always perfect and predicting the future is much more

difficult.

We had estimate-of-giving pledges for 2014 totaling $362,731. Of this amount, $358,438 was re-

ceived. That is a return of 98.82%. Our Thanksgiving offering of $2,266 exceeded our budget of $2,000

and our Christmas offering of $7,063 fell short of our $9,000 budget.

Thank you for your tithes, gifts and support.

For expenses, some of the highlights are as follows: Local church expenses included $26,000 for

missions, $20,820 from clothing closet receipts given to mission, and $6,000 for youth ministries. Ap-

portionments were paid in the amount of $64,990, and staff expenses totaled $319,890.

As we move forward into 2015, we will be facing some new challenges this year. Our 2015 Steward-

ship Campaign has resulted in 198 pledges totaling $368,135 to the general Fund. This is $5,404 above

last year’s pledge totals. However, our proposed 2015 budget currently has a short fall that can be satis-

fied by using the surplus and other adjustments to budget income lines along with additional anticipated

pledges.

If you have not yet completed an estimate of giving card for 2015, we ask you to please do so. It is

only through the generous support of our members and friends that we will have sufficient funds to ad-

vance God’s kingdom through our church and our community.

Prayer Shawl Ministry By Jane Ragains

The Wesley Prayer Shawl Ministry is celebrating its two year anniversary.

The knitters and crocheters have produced 151 shawls and lap robes over that

period. We have blessed 93 people in our church and community.

Fifteen shawls were given to residents of five area nursing facilities at Thanksgiving.

We continue to meet the 3rd Thursday of each month in the Parlor and welcome new members at any-

time. If anyone is interested in learning to knit or crochet, please come join us at a meeting.

If you have extra yarn, our knitters and crocheters would be happy to receive it. Also, if you know of

someone who would benefit from having a prayer shawl, please contact Pastor Amy or Pastor Gail.

The Wesley Crier February 2015 Page 13

United Methodist Women By: Barbara Rafte

Wesley’s U.M.W. begins the new year with faith and hope!

Our new and returning officers are as follows: President – Alma Yerger Vice President – Mary Ann Evans

Treasurer – Marilyn Cleeton Secretary/Communications – Barbara Rafte

Social Action – Bonnie Henry Education & Interpretation – Frances Johnson Secretary of Program Services – Mary Ann Dashiell

Membership Nurture & Outreach – Helene Zeman Spiritual Growth – Pat Lieske

Nominations Chair – Vicki Stoops Historian – Nicky Satterfield (new position)

Won’t you join us in making 2015 one of best years ever? All of our events’ proceeds benefit women and children locally and worldwide. There are many ways to serve and four Circles to

choose from. On UMW Sunday in October, the Special Mission Recognition pin was presented to an active member. Requirements to be

nominated to receive the pin are: 1) to be an active participant in UMW, local church or the community, 2) lead a dedicated spir-

itual life, 3) have a lengthy active membership in UMW or Wesley UMW. Pat Lieske received the pin during the 9:45 church ser-vice. Pat has been an active member of Wesley Church for seven

years including small groups and various committees. She is a Lay Reader during the 9:45 service and a Circle Leader for Mary

Circle. She has been the UMW Spiritual Growth Chair for several years and she leads a Connect group at The Heritage. Holly Day 2014 brought in funds of over $4,000 and members

would like to thank each and every person that contributed with their presence, gifts, dona-tions, purchases and prayers.

Wesley UMW now has a Facebook page! The address is wesleyumwdoverde if you’d like to take a look, post photos or comment. Promote your Circle’s meetings, events and accomplish-ments. Don’t be shy!

Members of Wesley UMW would like to thank Outgoing President Mary Ann Evans for her four years of service in that position. Her creative and positive outlook took us through some

wonderful times. One of the most important goals that she reached was to begin the practice of holding a women's retreat every other year off site!

CIRCLE MEETINGS

Barbara Circle - Tuesday, February 10th, 7:00 p.m. Jane Reish’s home - 569 S. Wynn Wood Cr., Camden.

Mary Circle - Thursday, February 12th, 1:00 p.m. @ Heritage at Dover

Bistro - 1203 Walker Road, Dover.

Rosemary Circle - Wednesday, February 11th, 1:00 p.m. @ Luther Towers Building #1, Dover.

Sylvia Circle - Wednesday, February 18th, 7:30 p.m. @ Helene Zeman’ s

home - 31 American Avenue, Dover.

The Wesley Crier February 2015 Page 14

Tone Chimes 2nd & 3rd Grade Hand Bells 4th Grade & up

Practice Time Practice Time

1st Sunday 8:40-9:10 2nd Sunday 8:40-9:10

3rd Sunday 8:40-9:10 4th Sunday 8:40-9:10

Ring Dates at the 9:45 Service Ring Dates at the 9:45 Service

2/1 3/1 5/1 6/7 2/22 3/22 5/24 6/7

Discretionary Fund Annual Update By: Pastor Amy

Thank you for your generous giving to the discretionary fund. Your donations make it possible to help many people with a myriad of needs. Many of these people were referred to us through

the Service Center. Some of these folks were our own members and friends. Here is how the 2014 fund were used:

We helped ….

84 families with their electric bills: $6,803.50 13 families keep a roof over their heads: $1,784.48

5 families with fuel oil: $884.71 17 families with their gas bills: $1,465.93 6 families with emergency lodging: $709.40

4 families with their phone bill: $540.75 41 people with transportation, primarily bus passes: $924.92

4 families with appliances/furniture: $1,008 2 families with their auto insurance: $491.16 4 people with medical needs: $414

42 people with food and/or gasoline using gift cards: $863.51 1 family with child care expenses: $334.23

We provided food baskets at Thanksgiving to 9 of our own families: $509.55 (other mission committee funds were used for Christmas) We helped provide partial scholarship for the youth mission trip: $50

We served more than 80 people at each of the two community dinners: $1,160.51 We supported one seminary student with $500 per semester, totaling $1,000

We supported 2 people from our church with financial need to go on silent retreat: $229 Various other eclectic expenses: $827.96 Total: $20,569.92 in assistance

Balance at year end: $5,361.83 Thank you for blessing each of these people. Your generosity made a difference in the life of

each person. I can tell you that the Wesley Church folks who were helped by this fund were enormously grateful. I wish everyone got to experience their gratitude, joy, and overflowing thanks for the support they received.

Children and Youth Music Ministries

The children and youth choirs are growing in numbers and they love to make a joyful noise as

often as possible! They bring so much joy to our lives and for that we are thankful. We have a lot going on this spring and can't wait to share all of it with you. If your child/youth would like

to join any of the choirs, please see Amy Kellen or Mandy Stant. We are always looking for some new friends to join us!

Blessings,

Ms. Amy and Ms. Mandy

The Wesley Crier February 2015 Page 15

Testimony By: Jacki Svaby

A Member of Wesley UMC reflects upon her recent experiences and God’s grace carrying her:

I was taught as a little girl that Jesus loved me. I have had a life filled with the love of God

and spiritual experiences and growth. But this experience caused me to struggle like I had not known before. Even losing loved ones, as painful as that is, at least you understand what hap-pened.

I didn’t expect to be here. Why is this happening? What did I do? Make it stop. I just want my family together dear Lord. These are just some of the painful feelings and thoughts I

had going through the storm of divorce. It felt like someone died. And in reality something did cease to exist, my marriage and my family as I knew it for so long. The pain, the feeling

of being alone, of being lost…… I turned to my friends. I leaned on my Pastor and my counselor. And then I gave it to God. I asked him to protect my children and myself as this was all too big for me alone. I

prayed and I prayed. When I was feeling lost I turned to Isaiah. And when struggling with the questions of why, and seeking direction in my storm, I read Proverbs and prayed to God to di-

rect my steps. I was afraid. I had no money. The Ex took it all. I was flat broke with three kids and a part time job. All I could do was pray….and before long God started answering my desperate prayers and guiding my steps forward. I read Philippians 4:19 over and over. And

God started supplying my needs in unbelievable ways. My Pastor called me to let me know she had gathered funds for me to use for my needs. She helped me get food from the food

pantry. The Salvation Army helped me with toys for my children at Christmas as well as help-ing with food and other needs. I was overwhelmed by this but knew it was of God’s hand. My friends brought me food. My church brought me dinner once a week. Friends gave me gas

cards so I could get to work. Some of my church family sent me meal cards for local restau-rants. I even had a few friends help pay some of my bills. I received hand-me downs from

friends so my kids would have clothes for school. A relative gave me a loan to get a lawyer to be able to protect my children and myself through the court system. Somehow we had what we needed and I have never felt so grateful and so humble. I then prayed to God--- and this

time I was not praying for strength, but for my thankful heart for the blessings and the people that God sent to help me. I felt surrounded by the grace of God and those he sent to us.

Tears of pain turned to tears of overwhelming gratitude. What a truly beautiful part of humanity I have felt. Through my struggle God not only sup-plied my needs, he used this time, to teach me to see even more about life. I have always

had a giving spirit. It brings me joy to help others. But to help others through the hands of God is the most amazing experience! God is giving me new opportunities to serve, using my

experiences. Today I work hard, I pay my bills, I provide for my family and although it is not an easy street, it is my street. And God led me here and he is leading me to a future wherein he uses me for his greater good. And although my family does not look like I wanted it to, and

I am starting over at 45, I find comfort knowing God is carrying me.

Questions for Reflection During Lent Continued from page 3

In devotional acts of prayer and reading, is my attention span increasing? Am I discovering new ways of listening rather than talking? of giving thanks rather than complaining?

Am I examining myself for prejudice and finding ways to confront these?

In addition to praying for others, what habits can I cultivate that allow me to be more responsive

to the sick, distressed, and mourning, especially when their needs arise suddenly?

By consistent attendance in worship, am I a witness to others of the worthiness of God? Or am I

suggesting that God is worth serving sometimes but not others by attending sporadically?

The Wesley Crier February 2015 Page 16

PECOMETH

PECOMETH CAMPERS AND PARENTS. Please read. We hope you will consider

going to Camp this summer. I hope the information below will help. Please call

Sally Verma at 678-0508 or email sjv37@comcast.netif you have any questions.

During this chilly January, don't forget to plan ahead to sign your campers up for Summer Camp 2015 here at Pecometh. They'll "Power Up" with the Holy Spirit

and take advantage of the many great programs we offer, including some new surprises for this year.

If you're trying to figure out how to pay for it all, don't worry about it. We make it easy for you. With special tiered pricing, EZ Pay plans, camperships, and our Thrifty Fifty referral dis-count, it's easy for your campers to be a part of what's going on here. Plus, if you register and

pay in full by February 1, you'll receive a 10% discount. For more info, visit: http://hubs.ly/y0qwQY0

We believe that every child should be able to come to camp, which is why we have more options than ever for paying for camp! Tiered pricing allows each family to choose a cost level

that works for them. Plus, we still offer EZPay plans, camperships, our Early Payment Dis-count, and our Thrifty Fifty referral discount!

Payment Options

All registrations require a $50 deposit/camper/program payable via credit/debit card, check, automated debit or money order. If you do not choose any of the EZPay options, you will re-ceive a statement with the balance due. Register by the end of June and we'll extend EZ Pay

options through October! We will be happy to set up a custom EZPay plan for those who expect to receive campership

support from Pecometh and/or a third party. Contact Julie Lutz at (410) 556-6900 x 128. Tiered Pricing The three-tier camper fee system has become popular for camps and their camper families

throughout the US. It allows each family to choose a cost level that works for them. Camperships

Camperships are our version of Scholarships. They are available for campers who need finan-cial support to attend camp. We typically provide a $150 camperships for our week-long, over-night programs and $50 for mini-camp.

If you would like more information, please contact Julie Lutz or send in a Campership Applica-tion with your registration.

We also encourage you to check with your church or community organization. Most are very willing to help send a child to camp. Discounted Camper Fee

We understand money is tight, but if you’d like to save a bit, we can help! Everyone loves a discount! If we receive your camper fee payment in full by February 1, 2015, we will reduce

your camper fee by 10%. If we receive your camper fee payment in full by March 1, 2015, we will reduce your camper fee by 5%. Thrifty Fifty for Returning Campers

Help us to register your friends as first-time campers and we’ll help you AND your friend. Here’s how it works:

Have your friend who is a first-time camper register for camp. Make sure they select

“Thrifty Fifty” and they list your name. They’ll get a $50 discount.

We’ll apply a $50 credit toward the cost of camp for each first-time camper you bring.

You are eligible for Thrifty Fifty credits up to the total cost of your camper family balance.

This is a WIN-WIN-WIN: Your friend wins, you win, and Pecometh wins, too!

The Wesley Crier February 2015 Page 17

Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat

1

2

Preschool Training - P - 5:30 p.m. UMW Executive Mtg. - GFH - 7 p.m.

3

Nomination & Lead-ership Development - L - 7 p.m.

4

5 SPRC - P - 7 p.m.

6

7

.

8

9 10

DCS - P - 5:45 p.m. Preschool Board Mtg. - P - 7 p.m.

11

UMM - Where Pigs Fly - 5:30 p.m. Christian Ed Mtg. - L - 7 p.m.

12

13 K & P 5:30 p.m.

14 K & P - All Day

15 CRIER DEADLINE

16

17

Trustees - P - 7 p.m.

18 Evangelism Mtg. - L 12:30 p.m.

19

Prayer Shawl Mtg. - 4:30 p.m. - P Steering Committee - L - 6 p.m.

21

22

23

24

25

N.A. - GFH - 6 p.m.

26

Finance - L - 7 p.m.

27

28 Family Life BOWLING

Dover AFB Lanes 4 p.m.- 6 p.m.

Certified Lay Ministry

Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday

1 Perry Bratcher Diane Ennis Boe Evans Matthew Ferguson Todd Mahrenholz Suzanne Parrott Elaine Souder Helene Zeman

2 Tom Anderson Jamie Cummings Paige Hennessy Ryan Honeycutt Robinson

3 Tina Cahall Brantley Craig Sarah Fox Kim Utley Debbie Wicks

4 Linda Foskey Logan Sweeney

5 Robert Ferguson Eddie McDonald Lacy Nichols, Sr. Pam Weyandt

6 Crystal Carey Deklyn Divita Steven Rogers

7 William Fitzhugh Nancy Mckee Marilyn Taylor

8 Michael Svaby

9 Sylvia Dowell Rylie Faircloth Jean King Betty Miller Nancy Nolan Lee Shurtleff Alma Yerger

10 Tim O’Keefe James Orth Debbie Wilkins

11 Samantha Manwiller Millie Melvin

12 Lynn Pearson Bill Pickering Brandon Yoder

13 Jonathan Evans John Foltz

14 Jennifer Divita Colleen Evans Aubrey Krabill Stuart Vaughan

15 16 Steve Devine, Sr. Larry Josefowski Connie Strickland James Warren

17 Connie Bailey Frank Virdin

18 Heather Ennis June Honeycutt

19 Sarah Dempsey Lynn Zimmerman

20 Patrick Boyle Philip Kobb Mary McCowan

21 Danette Briggs Barbara Brockton Joshua Davis Nathaniel Davis Ryan Kobb Suzie Stehle Keller Daniel Zeman, Sr.

22 Jason Gorlich Robert Josefowski Ruth Vehslage

23 Earl Clow Zachary Davis Chad Reed, III Dan Semenick

23 Anthony Asti Billy Cooke Lindsey Downer Terry Feinour Beth Petit de Mange

25 Fred Ragains

26 Diane Beish Cole Cummings Stephen Loera

27 Stephanie Behrens Gabrielle Davis Levi Wood

28 Tammy Argueta Christopher Beish Lauren Casto William Lloyd

2015 CALENDARS

FEBRUARY 2015 EVENT CALENDAR

The Wesley Crier February 2015 Page 18

Staff E-Mail Addresses Pastor Amy Yarnall, Senior Pastor– pastor.amy@wesleyumc-dover.com Pastor Gail Chupein, Associate Pastor- gail@wesleyumc-dover.com Cindy Mayan, Administrative Specialist - cindy@wesleyumc-dover.com Marian Hudson, Treasurer- marian@wesleyumc-dover.com Chris Countryman, Christian Education & Youth Director - chris@wesleyumc-dover.com Dr. James Wilson, Director of Music - jwilson@wesleyumc-dover.com Dave Wilkins, Organist - dwilkins@wesleyumc-dover.com

Dan Briggs, Handbell Choir Director - dbriggs@wesleyumc-dover.com Amy Kellen, Children’s Choir Director - amyekellen@yahoo.com Mandy Stant, Children’s Handbell Director - mandystant@icloud.com Tim Plimpton, Worship Leader - tim@wesleyumc-dover.com Michele Dryda, Editor- mdryda@wesleyumc-dover.com

If you scan this QR

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will be taken to the

Church’s web page.

Recurring Meetings at Wesley UMC

Sunday 8 a.m. Worship Service 8:30 a.m. - 11:15 a.m. Fellowship Time — Grace Fellowship Hall

8:45 a.m. Adult Sunday School 9:45 a.m. Adult and Children's Sunday School

9:45 a.m. Worship Service 11:15 a.m. Worship Service 12:00 p.m. Serenity Church — Ed. Bldg., Lobby

6:00 p.m. Youth Group — Student Ministry Center

Tuesday 7 a.m. Men's Bible Study — Ed. Bldg., Search Classroom 9:30 a.m. Staff Meeting — Library

2 p.m. Women’s Covenant Discipleship — Parlor 7 p.m. Delaware Choral Society — Grace Fellowship Hall

Wednesday 9:30 a.m. Women’s Bible Study

11 a.m. Intercessory Prayer 6 p.m. N.A. Meeting — Ed. Bldg., Search Classroom 6:30 p.m. Handbell Rehearsal — Bell Room

Thursday

1:00 p.m. Book Study — Parlor 7 p.m. Choir Rehearsal — Choir Room

Friday 6 p.m. Serenity Church — Ed. Bldg., Lobby

Ash Wednesday Services February 18, 2015

12:00 p.m. Service of Ashes in the Chapel 7:00 p.m. Service of Ashes in the Sanctuary

Ash Wednesday is the seventh Wednesday before Easter and the first day of forty days of Lent, on which many Christians receive a mark of ashes on the forehead as a symbol of pen-ance and contrition, which is why believers are told "Remember, Man is dust, and unto dust

you shall return" when he/she receives the ashes. While throughout the day the ashes may turn into more of a smudge, they are actually applied to the forehead as the sign of the cross.