Beginning today, we have valet parking available to those in need because of medical and health issues. Simply pull up to the main Sanctuary entrance and we will assist you inside, and take care of parking your car and bringing it back to you after the service. Anyone interested in helping to park cars should contact Liz Scott (684-5587) for the 8:30 a.m. service or Reid Skillman (721-3199) for the 10 a.m. service. Please consider serving to help our members get to church more easily during the difficult winter months.

EMERGENCY WEATHER ALERTS

Want to receive emails when our weekday schedule is affected by weather? Email news@hempfieldumc.com.

2011 HIGHLIGHTS

Now that 2011 is behind us, we’re taking a look back at the previous 12 months of ministry here at the church. Go to hempfieldumc.com/2011highlights to reflect back on last year and share your personal reflections in the comments.

WOMEN’S BIBLE STUDY

The Tuesday evening Women’s Bible Study will resume this week from 6:30-8:30 with a Priscilla Shirer study entitled SEED. For more info and to sign up go to hempfieldumc.com/seed or sign up at the Info Center in the lobby.

INDOOR WORK DAY

Trustees will be hosting an indoor work day at the church on Saturday, Feb. 18, from 8:30 a.m. to noon. There will be a variety of projects  for people of all skills. If you are interested in serving, you can sign up online at hempfieldumc.com/workday. There will be another work day on May 5.

MEN’S BREAKFAST

Retired and semi-retired men can join the Men’s Breakfast group on Tuesday, Feb. 7, at 8:30 at Moveable Feast.

HOLY WEEK CHOIR

A special Holy Week choir will sing at both Maundy Thursday (April 5) and Easter Sunday (April services. We will be singing a wide variety of exciting and spiritually moving music. Rehearsals will be every Wednesday from 6:30-7:30 p.m. starting on Feb. 8. To join us for this great musical opportunity, please sign up at the Info Center in the lobby or e-mail Rashard Allen at rallen@hempfieldumc.com.

DEVOTION SUBMISSIONS NEEDED

The Marriage and  Family Team is looking for devotions to strengthen our relationships – marital, familial, and spiritual – during Lent. Each devotion should include a scripture and may include a prayer. The deadline is today. Contact MatthewAndHeather@yahoo.com or 840-4090.

INDOOR  YARD SALE

Save the date and save your stuff! The Indoor Yard Sale will be held on Saturday, March 17. We will be collecting donations March 12 through March 15. Proceeds from the sale benefit SHOUT youth mission trips. Sign up to volunteer at the Info Center in the lobby. Questions? Please contact Darriel Davis, at 898-2939 or lancodjmc@aol.com, or Dawn Smith, at 898-6632 or Dawn2890@aol.com.

NO BUSINESS LIKE SEW-BUSINESS

In 2011, Rose Sweigart (560-0697) and her team of a dozen or more ladies crafted seven prayer shawls, 26 infant blankets of blessing, hats, scarves and mittens for 45 individuals, baby booties for 75 infants, and lap robes/afghans for 11 veterans.

To add to these numbers, a new Caring Stitchers ministry, Heavenly Hats, Scarves & Gloves, led by Fay Deibert (872-7132) is eager to recruit new team members. These knitters and crocheters make items that are given locally at our churches’ community meals held in the city six times yearly. In December the group distributed 87 scarves, 114 hats, and 98 pairs of gloves and mittens. If you are not a crafty person these care minsitries accept doantions. Please contact Joan Karr (285-5156 ext. 222).

CHILDREN’S MINISTRY // hempfieldumc.com/children

TEACHER NEEDED

Noah’s Ark Preschool & Rainbow Tots is taking applications for a teacher of 3-year-old preschoolers, three mornings a week, for the 2012-2013 school year. Candidates need to have experience with 3-year-old preschoolers in a preschool setting with positive references of this experience,  a college degree, preferably in early education. A teacher must pass all background checks, child-abuse clearances, attend Hempfield UMC’s Safe Sanctuary training and have AHA CPR/First Aid certification. Contact Tara Streets, at 285-7110 or tstreets@noahsarkhempfield.com.

KIDSTUF FAMILY PRODUCTION

The next Kidstuf Family Production is this Wednesday, Feb. 15, at 6:30 p.m. in the MPR.

YOUTH MINISTRY // shout.hempfieldumc.com  

MIDDLE SCHOOL MISSION TRIP IS FULL

We are building a waiting list. Contact Sue Nesbitt at snesbitt@hempfieldumc.com or 285-5156 to be put on the list.

HIGH SCHOOL MISSION TRIP IS ALMOST FULL

The registration deadline is March 11, but hurry, there are only a few open spots on this trip.

30 HOUR FAMINE THANKS! 

To all who helped make this year’s 30 Hour Famine a success, we offer our thanks!  To those who supported us prayerfully and financially, thank you.  We feel so lucky to be part of such a kind and generous congregation. To the many youth and adults who participated in the Famine, congratulations and thank you for caring enough to make a difference. To the parents and leaders who helped in so many different ways, thank you. It takes a huge team to pull off an event of this size, and we couldn’t have done it without you. God has surely blessed and will continue to bless many lives through this event. Remember, we will continue to collect donations through March 4.

SHOUT PARTY FOR THE BIG GAME

Who’s gonna win? The Giants or the Patriots?  Join us tonight from 6 p.m. to halftime to cheer on your team at our party.

SEE YOU AT ISAAC’S? 

On Feb. 9, 16, 22 and 26 from 5-9 p.m., Isaac’s on Centerville Road will donate 25 percent of your dinner bill to SHOUT’s 30 Hour Famine. Grab an orange form from the lobby, enjoy a great dinner, and Isaac’s will donate 25 percent of your bill to our Famine. Invite your friends and family too! The form is also online on our website.

EMERGENCY WEATHER ALERTS
Want to receive emails when our weekday schedule is affected by weather? Email news@hempfieldumc.com.

2011 HIGHLIGHTS
Now that 2011 is behind us, we’re taking a look back at the previous 12 months of ministry here at the church. Go to hempfieldumc.com/2011highlights to reflect back on last year and share your personal reflections in the comments.

WOMEN’S BIBLE STUDY
The Tuesday evening Women’s Bible Study will resume this week from 6:30-8:30 p.m. with a Priscilla Shirer study entitled SEED. For more info and to sign up, go to hempfieldumc.com/seed or sign up at the Info Center in the lobby.

INDOOR WORK DAY
Trustees will be hosting an indoor work day here at the church on Saturday, Feb. 18, from 8:30 a.m. to noon. There will be a variety of projects to complete for people of all skills. If you are interested in serving, you can sign up online at hempfieldumc.com/workday. There will be another work day on May 5.

COFFEE WITH PASTORS
Coffee with Pastors will be held today at 11:30 a.m. in room 124. This is a chance to meet with Pastor John and Pastor Keith and learn more about the community of faith here at Hempfield UMC.

MEN’S BREAKFAST
Retired and semi-retired men are invited to join the Men’s Breakfast group on Tuesday, Feb. 7, at 8:30 a.m. at Moveable Feast.

HOLY WEEK CHOIR
This Lenten season we will be doing a special Holy Week choir that will sing for both Maundy Thursday (April 5th) and Easter Sunday (April 8th) services. We will be singing a wide variety of exciting and spiritually moving music. Rehearsals will be every Wednesday from 6:30-7:30 p.m. starting on Feb. 8. To join us for this great musical opportunity, please sign up at the Info Center in the lobby or e-mail Rashard Allen at rallen@hempfieldumc.com.

DEVOTION SUBMISSIONS NEEDED
The Marriage & Family Team is looking for devotions to strengthen our relationships – marital, familial, and spiritual – during the holy season of Lent. Each devotion should include a scripture and may include a prayer. The deadline is Feb. 5. Contact MatthewAndHeather@yahoo.com or 840-4090 for more info.

INDOOR YARD SALE
Save the date and save your stuff! The Indoor Yard Sale will be held on Saturday, March 17. We will be collecting donations March 12 through March 15. Proceeds from the sale benefit SHOUT youth mission trips. Sign up to volunteer at the Info Center in the lobby. Questions? Please contact Darriel Davis, 898-2939 or lancodjmc@aol.com, or Dawn Smith 898-6632 or Dawn2890@aol.com.

VALET PARKING
Beginning Feb. 5, we will have valet parking available to those in need due to medical and health issues. Simply pull up to the main Sanctuary entrance and we will assist you inside and take care of parking your car and bringing it back to you after the service. Anyone interested in helping to park cars should contact Liz Scott (684-5587) for the 8:30 service or Reid Skillman (721-3199) for the 10:00 service. Please consider serving to help our members get to church more easily during the difficult winter months.

FAMINE FACT
The average American family wastes 14 percent of their food purchases, yet worldwide, a child dies from hunger-related causes every 10 seconds. The good news is that World Vision can feed a starving child for an entire month with your $30 donation. Please support the SHOUT students financially and prayerfully, as they strive to “Overcome Hunger” during their 30 Hour Famine.

PRAYER PAGE
Our weekly blue Prayer Page lists the praises and prayer requests submitted through the prayer cards and online at hempfieldumc.com/prayer each week. This is also the place where we celebrate births, pay tribute to those who have gone on to be with the Lord and celebrate milestone anniversaries. When you see a red rose in worship it signifies a birth and a white rose signifies a loss. You can pick up a copy of the Prayer Page as you come in in the lobby each week.

CHILDREN’S MINISTRY // hempfieldumc.com/children

TEACHER NEEDED
Noah’s Ark Preschool & Rainbow Tots is taking applications for a teacher of 3-year-old preschoolers, three mornings a week, for the 2012-2013 school year. Candidates need to have experience with 3-year-old preschoolers in a preschool setting with positive references of this experience, a college degree, preferably in early education, as well as pass all background checks, child abuse clearances, attend Hempfield UMC’s Safe Sanctuary training and have AHA CPR/First aid certification. Contact Tara Streets, 285-7110 or tstreets@noahsarkhempfield.com, for more information.

KIDSTUF FAMILY PRODUCTION
The next Kidstuf Family Production is this Wednesday, Feb. 1, at 6:30 p.m. in the MPR. For more information on Kidstuf, visit kidstuf.hempfieldumc.com.

YOUTH MINISTRY // shout.hempfieldumc.com

ONLY ONE MORE WEEK OF PENNY WARS
Be sure to bring your coins to SHOUT to support your team. All proceeds of the Penny Wars will go to the 30 Hour Famine.

MIDDLE SCHOOL MISSION TRIP IS FULL, but we are taking names for a waiting list. Contact Sue Nesbitt at snesbitt@hempfieldumc.com or 285-5156 to be put on the list.

HIGH SCHOOL MISSION TRIP IS ALMOST FULL: The registration deadline is March 11, but hurry, there are only a few open spots on this trip.

By Matthew Ralph

In September of 2009 my wife, Sara, and I moved to Lancaster and we were welcomed into the church family here at Hempfield United Methodist Church with open arms. Since that time, I have overseen communications and worked with Group Life here at the church. Each week I have been the one making sure the bulletins get printed, fliers hung around the church and the website and all communications materials up to date.

I have written, posted and edited countless blog posts, Facebook status updates and messages to Twitter and Google+, taken phone calls, set up meetings, ordered curriculum, designed brochures, bought advertising, sent a ton of emails, written news releases and a litany of other things that were or were not in my job description (“that’s not my job” are words you never use working in ministry).

This post will be my last as an employee of this church and it’s hard for me not to be saddened by the end it represents. I have grown leaps and bounds professionally, personally and spiritually in my time here. Lancaster has become not just a new ZIP code but a home where we have found good friends, an encouraging small group and a wonderful and loving community of faith. It’s hard for us to say goodbye to this but we know God has plans for us as we move to Delaware County, Pennsylvania, and I begin my new job.

Thank you for allowing me to serve with you the past couple years and for your love and support. Should you need to contact me, my email address will now no longer have hempfieldumc.com at the end – it’s matt@matthewralph.com.

RECEPTIONIST/NIGHT OWL NEEDED
The morning and evening welcoming team has openings available. If you have just a few hours a month, a warm friendly personality, and would like to meet new people-this is just the serving opportunity for you! Currently, we have the third and fifth Mondays of the month from 6-8 p.m. available and are in need of a Thursday morning receptionist. Training is provided. Please contact Darriel Davis at 898-2939 or lancodjmc@aol.com for more information.

EMERGENCY WEATHER ALERTS
Want to receive emails when our weekday schedule is affected by weather. Email news@hempfieldumc.com.

2011 HIGHLIGHTS
Now that 2011 is behind us, we’re taking a look back at the previous 12 months of ministry here at the church. Go to hempfieldumc.com/2011highlights to reflect back on last year and share your personal reflections in the comments.

REACH OUT YEAR-END REPORT
Take a look at how you, the congregation, have touched the lives of others through acts of love, compassion, service and giving outside our walls. You have offered yourselves, your money and your stuff to help reach out to the people in our community and beyond, expressing the love of God for them. Read the stories and see who was impacted this year by your love and generosity in reaching out to others in our community and our world. Copies of the report can be downloaded at hempfieldumc.com/reachout2011 or pick up a copy in the lobby at the information center.

WOMEN’S BIBLE STUDY
The Tuesday evening Women’s Bible Study will resume Jan. 31, with a Priscilla Shirer study entitled SEED. For more info and to sign up, go to hempfieldumc.com/seed or sign up at the Info Center in the lobby.

INDOOR WORK DAY
Trustees will be hosting an indoor work day here at the church on Saturday, Feb. 18, from 8:30 a.m. to noon. There will be a variety of projects to complete for people of all skills. If you are interested in serving, you can sign up online at hempfieldumc.com/workday. There will be another work day on May 5.

CARE MINISTRY YEAR-END REPORT
Care Ministry’s year-end report that details all of the many ways we as a congregation have provided care for people in the church and in the community is available. You can pick up a copy at the Info Center and praise God for the many ways He has moved through this congregation and used His people to bless and care for others in the past 12 months.

RING FOUND
A ring was found here at the church in November and turned into the lost and found. If you think the ring might be yours, contact Jeff Pijanowski at extension 224 or jpijanowski@hempfieldumc.com.

COFFEE WITH PASTORS
The next Coffee with Pastors will be held on Sunday, Jan. 29, at 11:30 a.m. in room 124. Sign up at hempfieldumc.com/coffeewithpastors or at one of the visitor tables in the lobby.

MEN’S BREAKFAST
Retired and semi-retired men are invited to join the Men’s Breakfast group on Tuesday, Feb. 7, at 8:30 a.m. at Moveable Feast. Pastor Keith will be leading a devotion.

DEVOTION SUBMISSIONS NEEDED
The Marriage & Family Team is looking for devotions to strengthen our relationships – marital, familial, and spiritual – during the holy season of Lent. Each devotion should include a scripture and may include a prayer. The deadline is Feb. 5. Contact MatthewAndHeather@yahoo.com or 840-4090 for more info.

CHILDREN’S MINISTRY // hempfieldumc.com/children

NOAH’S ARK PRESCHOOL OPEN HOUSE
Noah’s Ark Preschool & Rainbow Tots invites families with preschoolers to attend our Open House on Tuesday, Jan. 24, from 6:30-8 p.m. Meet the teachers and tour our school. Call 285-7110 for more information.

TEACHER NEEDED
Noah’s Ark Preschool & Rainbow Tots is now taking applications for a teacher of 3-year-old preschoolers, three mornings a week, for the 2012-2013 school. Candidates need to have experience with 3-year-old preschoolers in a preschool setting with positive references of this experience, a college degree, preferably in early education, as well as pass all background checks, child abuse clearances, and attend Hempfield UMC’s Safe Sanctuary training and have AHA CPR/First aid certification. Contact Tara Streets 285-7110 or tstreets@noahsarkhempfield.com for more information.

KIDSTUF FAMILY PRODUCTION
The next Kidstuf Family Production is this Wednesday, Feb. 1, at 6:30 p.m. in the MPR. For more information on Kidstuf, visit kidstuf.hempfieldumc.com.

YOUTH MINISTRY // shout.hempfieldumc.com

SAFE SANCTUARY TRAINING: There will be a Safe Sanctuary Training today at 11:30 a.m. in room 124. All adults who have not previously been trained that want to help with SHOUT should attend. This is especially important for those adults who would like to help with the Famine.

MIDDLE SCHOOL MISSION TRIP IS FULL
We are, however, taking names for a waiting list. Contact Sue Nesbitt at snesbitt@hempfieldumc.com or 285-5156 to be put on the list.

HIGH SCHOOL MISSION TRIP IS ALMOST FULL
The registration deadline is March 11, but hurry, there are only a few open spots on this trip.

Be still, my soul; the Lord is on thy side;
Bear patiently the cross of grief or pain;
Leave to thy God to order and provide;
In every change He faithful will remain.
Be still, my soul; thy best, thy heavenly, Friend
Through thorny ways leads to a joyful end.

In this video, Leigh Nash, the former singer for the band Sixpence None the Richer, does a rendition of a classic hymn we sang at both services this past Sunday, “Be Stil My Soul.”

The song was originally penned by Catharina von Schlegel in the 18th century. Leigh Nash’s version is on her recent album, Hymns and Sacred Songs.

This commercial produced by Focus on the Family aired during the Saturday (Jan. 14) NFL playoff game between the Denver Broncos and the New England Patriots.

Focus on the Family has a free resource associated with the commercial available for download HERE.

By Pastor Keith Braucher

If you click HERE, you will be able to the Care Ministries 2011 End of Year Report prepared by Joan Karr and her many many partners in ministry.

When I was a full time Pastoral Counselor people would ask how things were going. My father-in-law was even more specific – “How’s business?”

How do you answer that question? If you say “good” – that means that there is a high demand for services based upon a high level of human misery – how could that be good!?

And if you say “bad” – low demand, low level of human misery – how could that be bad?!

So what does it mean to say that we are very pleased and blessed to have the Care Ministries that God has given us?

Simple gratitude and humility. God has enabled us to love others in Jesus’ name.

To show unconditional love. To help others claim his or her freedom of choice. To find forgiveness. To embrace new life in the Spirit. To bring a little bit of heaven on earth.

RECEPTIONIST/NIGHT OWL NEEDED
The morning and evening welcoming team has openings available. If you have just a few hours a month, a warm friendly personality, and would like to meet new people-this is just the serving opportunity for you! Currently, we have the third and fifth Mondays of the month from 6-8 p.m. available and are in need of a Thursday morning receptionist. Training is provided. Please contact Darriel Davis at 898-2939 or lancodjmc@aol.com for more information.

EMERGENCY WEATHER ALERTS
Want to receive emails when our weekday schedule is affected by weather. Email news@hempfieldumc.com.

2011 HIGHLIGHTS
Now that 2011 is behind us, we’re taking a look back at the previous 12 months of ministry here at the church. Go to hempfieldumc.com/2011highlights to reflect back on last year and share your personal reflections in the comments.

REACH OUT YEAR-END REPORT
Take a look at how you, the congregation, have touched the lives of others through acts of love, compassion, service and giving outside our walls. You have offered yourselves, your money and your stuff to help reach out to the people in our community and beyond, expressing the love of God for them. Read the stories and see who was impacted this year by your love and generosity in reaching out to others in our community and our world. Copies of the report can be downloaded at hempfieldumc.com/reachout2011 or pick up a copy in the lobby at the information center.

YOUNG ADULT DINNER AND OPEN MIC
The 20 and 30-somethings of our church will be gathering in the Spirit Cafe on Friday, Jan. 20, from 6:30-8:30 p.m. for a potluck dinner and open mic night. Preregistered child care is available. To sign up, go to hempfieldumc.com/youngadult.

WOMEN’S BIBLE STUDY
The Tuesday evening Women’s Bible Study will resume Jan. 31, with a Priscilla Shirer study entitled SEED. For more info and to sign up, go to hempfieldumc.com/seed or sign up at the Info Center in the lobby.

INDOOR WORK DAY
Trustees will be hosting an indoor work day here at the church on Saturday, Feb. 18, from 8:30 a.m. to noon. There will be a variety of projects to complete for people of all skills. If you are interested in serving, you can sign up online at hempfieldumc.com/workday. There will be another work day on May 5.

CARE MINISTRY YEAR-END REPORT
Care Ministry’s year-end report that details all of the many ways we as a congregation have provided care for people in the church and in the community is available. You can pick up a copy at the Info Center and praise God for the many ways He has moved through this congregation and used His people to bless and care for others in the past 12 months.

RING FOUND
A ring was found here at the church in November and turned into the lost and found. If you think the ring might be yours, contact Jeff Pijanowski at extension 224 or jpijanowski@hempfieldumc.com.

COFFEE WITH PASTORS
The next Coffee with Pastors will be held on Sunday, Jan. 29, at 11:30 a.m. in room 124. Sign up at hempfieldumc.com/coffeewithpastors or at one of the visitor tables in the lobby.

CHERUB CHOIR
The cherub choir will be rehearsing today in room 120 immediately following 10 a.m. worship. There will also be rehearsal on Jan. 22 in preparation for Jan. 29. Email Carrie Kirchner at Kirchners25@yahoo.com or phone 653-0982 if you have questions.

CHILDREN’S MINISTRY // hempfieldumc.com/children

NOAH’S ARK PRESCHOOL OPEN HOUSE
Noah’s Ark Preschool & Rainbow Tots invites families with preschoolers to attend our Open House on Tuesday, Jan. 24, from 6:30-8 p.m. Meet the teachers and tour our school. Call 285-7110 for more information.

HEY SIXTH GRADERS
Did you know that you are eligible for the SHOUT Middle School Mission Trip next summer? Pick up a registration form in the information center in the lobby, but hurry, this trip is almost full.

KIDSTUF FAMILY PRODUCTION
The next Kidstuf Family Production is this Wednesday, Jan. 18, at 6:30 p.m. in the MPR. For more information on Kidstuf, visit kidstuf.hempfieldumc.com.

YOUTH MINISTRY // shout.hempfieldumc.com

PENNY WARS ARE RAGING: Who can raise the most money-the boys or the girls? To find out, bring your spare change to SHOUT to put in our collection jars NOW. Pennies add to your team’s total, but silver coins and dollars subtract from your team’s total. All proceeds of the Penny Wars will go to the 30 Hour Famine.

SHOUT MISSION TRIP REGISTRATION FORMS AVAILABLE: Stop by the SHOUT lobby table to pick up a registration form for the Middle School or High School Mission Trip. The registration deadline is March 11, but there are only a few open spots on each trip

SAFE SANCTUARY TRAINING: There will be a Safe Sanctuary Training on Sunday, Jan. 22, at 11:30 a.m. in room 124. All adults who have not previously been trained that want to help with SHOUT should attend. This is especially important for those adults who would like to help with the Famine.

As you may have heard about in the local media, a member of our church family, Kathy Rinehart, recently had a devastating fire that destroyed her home and took the life of several of her pets.

We as a church family can help Kathy and her family in this difficult time by eating at Bob Evans on Thursday, Jan. 19, from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. When you present this flier, Bob Evans will donate 15 percent of your meal to a relief fund that has been set up for Kathy and her family.

By Anthi Glass

The past two summers I have been able to combine two of my favorite things— Worship music and the city of Lancaster, thanks to our church’s Keys for the City Worship Caravan.

This informal ministry all began in the summer of 2010 when Rashard decided to use the beautifully decorated pianos that had been placed throughout Lancaster city as weekly gathering places to share some music and ministry over the noon hour. His plan was to invite anyone willing and able to gather around a designated piano on Thursdays at noon. During the hour or so we were there, Rashard would lead the small group of us in a variety of worship songs as he played. There was no set playlist- instead he welcomed suggestions from any who were there.

Such a simple idea grew into an event my family began to plan our week around. There were days that it was just 4-5 of us at the piano, but with Rashard taking the lead we always sounded strong. When Rashard would begin playing and we would join in song, many people would pause from their busy lunch hours to offer a smile or a compliment. Often they would even pause to listen for a song or two. Some would join in with us and treat us to their beautiful voices.
My children and I were always moved by the people we met and the time we spent at the piano. We could see that the music and the message was warmly received in this nonthreatening setting. Although seeing us at the piano may have been unexpected, it seemed to be welcomed by people of all ages, races and backgrounds.

I recall the sadness I felt when I thought that this weekly event may not be continued after that first summer, because there was no guarantee that the pianos would return in 2011, but once word got out that the pianos were back, Rashard reassured us that he would be there- almost every Thursday of the summer- through heat and humidity- sharing the gift of music and worship.

I am sure we still have a few good frosts ahead of us, but as the weather warms, and thoughts of Spring and Summer begin to fill your mind—-keep an eye out for the invitation to JOIN THE CARAVAN this coming summer. Don’t worry, you don’t have to be a soloist, just a willing soul! You will be glad you came!

Even more exciting is this year’s speaker Lancaster’s “beloved” minister-Elder, Dr. Irvin Scott! He will speak on the topic “Mordecai, Martin, and Me!” We are looking forward to a time of fellowship, enlightenment, and paying tribute to the life and legacy of Dr. King!

The event is free to the public! Please spread the word in your workplaces, organizations, homes, churches, temples, mosques, reading circles and so on! Also, if you are interested in helping to host, please contact me at this email address swatson.naacpdevelopment@yahoo.com or by phone at 717-610-1651.

Sisters In Christ Event
Lancaster Bible College
901 Eden Road, Lancaster PA
March 3
6-9 p.m.

Featuring inspirational messages from the Sisters In Christ team, Praise and Worship music, Silly Song and Light Refreshments

The event is free. All women are welcome.An offering will be taken with proceeds supporting Celebrate Recovery. For more information, visit www.pasistersinchrist.com.

We took the kids back to Jesus’ hometown with the theme Hometown Nazareth for the 2011 Vacation Bible School in July.

This year’s mission focus was on global poverty. Missionary Julie Campbell paid the group a visit during the week and Dan and Cindy Macha spent time sharing about our church’s efforts in Kenya that fall under the umbrella of Building Hope.

You can read more about the mission focus in a blog post written by Amy Jordan.

The Art of Marriage video workshop was held here at the church in May and will be held again Jan. 27-28. Click HERE for registration information.

By Don Forry

Dee and I had been really struggling with our relationship for a long time, back and forth, hot and cold, inconsistent, poor communications, blaming each other, selfishness, etc. It was getting to the point where both of us began to lose confidence in the relationship. And we didn’t have the energy to make it work.

The Art of Marriage came at an opportune time. God must have been pulling on us to do something because we both decided to attend not knowing what to expect. The time went fast and we were both impressed. The seminar was very effective and nonthreatening; and it put the ball in the couple’s court, to play ball or quit the game. The DVD, workbook including the questions and answers were well-crafted and helpful; especially in getting to the root issues and forgiveness.

Neither one of us really looked at marriage from a Christian perspective. In fact, my father was married three times and Dee’s father walked out on her family when she was a teenager. We never witnessed how a real marriage worked, which is a shame for us and probably is the norm for many relationships in today’s world. In essence, we never realized that God had a purpose and a plan for our marriage. One quote I remember from the seminar is that my role was to live to make my wife great. That concept never came to mind, because I was selfish; but now I am slowly beginning to “get it.”

We can both honestly say that our marriage is stronger now. We recognize we will have problems and challenges; however, we are committed to God, our marriage and our family. And, I think we are more aware of our behaviors and are developing the tools to deal with the past and move forward in the present and the future. One of the things I really notice is that we are both calm and peaceful when we are together, not overreacting, listening and expressing ourselves more effectively. We are planning more time together for movies, watching the Phillies, going out with friends, allowing each other space and even talking about our retirement plans. I also realize that I really enjoy spending time with her. Dee is working on her master’s degree in English literature at Millersville and she is excited about that challenge. Subsequently, we realized that adjustments had to be made in our daily schedules to meet the family needs.

In the past, the timing and the approach wasn’t appropriate when she wanted me to do something, but now she will leave me a to-do list (because she knows I can’t remember anything unless it is written down) of what she wants me to do and I’ll do it. And I’m trying to take responsibility for the things which I know need to be done. We also talk about things when we are both tuned into each other (not as soon as I walk in the door from work). Our marriage is definitely more of a priority and a commitment now.

A heartfelt thank you to Heather and Matthew Hammel for their leadership during the seminar and the Fireproofing. Well done. We appreciate the support from Hempfield UMC as well.

Our Man on the Streets video team stopped by a recent Kidstuf performance to ask the kids there one question: What Does God Want?

The video was shown on Sunday, the first week of the sermon series What God Really Wants.

Now Behold the Lamb was a worship concert we held at the church on Maundy Thursday that featured our choirs, worship teams, the dance team and video interludes.

Did you attend or participate in Now Behold the Lamb last April? What do you remember most about it?

My God is not dead
He’s surely alive
He’s living on the inside
Roaring like a lion

We learned this song written by Daniel Bashta but also performed by David Crowder Band in worship today. In the above video, Bashta and Crowder talk about the song a little and perform it acoustically.

Click HERE for the rest of the lyrics.

RECEPTIONIST/NIGHT OWL NEEDED
The morning and evening welcoming team has openings available. If you have just a few hours a month, a warm friendly personality, and would like to meet new people-this is just the serving opportunity for you! Currently, we have the third and fifth Mondays of the month from 6-8 p.m. available and are in need of a Thursday morning receptionist. Training is provided. Please contact Darriel Davis at 898-2939 or lancodjmc@aol.com for more information.

JOB OPENINGS
We are conducting a search for a part-time worship associate and a part-time outreach director. For a job description and more information, go to hempfieldumc.com/employment.
2011 HIGHLIGHTS
Now that 2011 is behind us, we’re taking a look back at the previous 12 months of ministry here at the church. Go to hempfieldumc.com/2011highlights to reflect back on last year and share your personal reflections in the comments.

REACH OUT YEAR-END REPORT
Take a look at how you, the congregation, have touched the lives of others through acts of love, compassion, service and giving outside our walls. You have offered yourselves, your money and your stuff to help reach out to the people in our community and beyond, expressing the love of God for them. Read the stories and see who was impacted this year by your love and generosity in reaching out to others in our community and our world. Copies of the report can be downloaded at hempfieldumc.com/reachout2011 or pick up a copy in the lobby at the information center.

YOUNG ADULT DINNER AND OPEN MIC
The 20 and 30-somethings of our church will be gathering in the Spirit Cafe on Friday, Jan. 20, from 6:30-8:30 p.m. for a potluck dinner and open mic night. Preregistered child care is available. To sign up, go to hempfieldumc.com/youngadult.

SMALL GROUPS
Are you looking to connect and grow with others in the congregation this year? Consider leading or helping to organize a new small group. For more information on our small group ministry, visit hempfieldumc.com/grouplife or email mralph@hempfieldumc.com.

WOMEN’S BIBLE STUDIES
The Thursday morning Women’s Bible Study will resume Jan. 12, with a video study entitled Jonah by Priscilla Shirer. For more info and to sign up, go to hempfieldumc.com/jonah or sign up at the Info Center in the lobby. The Tuesday evening Women’s Bible Study will resume Jan. 31, with a Priscilla Shirer’s study entitled SEED. For more info and to sign up, go to hempfieldumc.com/seed or sign up at the Info Center in the lobby.

BIPOLAR SUPPORT GROUP
The Bipolar Support Group will hold its regular monthly lunch meeting this Thursday, Jan. 12, at noon in the Spirit Cafe. If you plan to attend, contact Joan Karr at 285-5156, ext. 222, or email her at jkarr@hempfieldumc.com.

CHERUB CHOIR
Rehearsals for the cherub choir begin TODAY, Jan. 8, in room 120 immediately following 10 a.m. worship. There will also be rehearsals on Jan. 15 and 22 in preparation for Jan. 29. Email Carrie Kirchner at Kirchners25@yahoo.com or phone 653-0982 if you have questions.

EMERGENCY WEATHER ALERTS
Want to receive emails when our weekday schedule is affected by weather. Email news@hempfieldumc.com.

CHILDREN’S MINISTRY // hempfieldumc.com/children

NOAH’S ARK PRESCHOOL OPEN HOUSE
Noah’s Ark Preschool & Rainbow Tots invites families with preschoolers to attend our Open House on Tuesday, Jan. 24, from 6:30-8 p.m. Meet the teachers and tour our school. Call 285-7110 for more information.

HEY SIXTH GRADERS
Did you know that you are eligible for the SHOUT Middle School Mission Trip next summer? To learn more about and to sign up for this trip, bring your parents and come to the Mission Trip meeting TODAY at noon in the Sanctuary.

YOUTH MINISTRY // shout.hempfieldumc.com

FAMINE REGISTRATION DEADLINE TODAY
Due to the holidays, we’ve extended the Famine registration deadline one week. Registrations will not be accepted after today. Don’t forget; all youth participants are required to fundraise for the 30 Hour Famine. Did you know you can feed and care for a starving child for only $1 a day? Join the Famine, and help us “Overcome Hunger.”

SHOUT PARENTS’ MEETING: Today, Jan. 8, at 11:30 a.m. in the Sanctuary. Parents of 7th-12th graders, come and hear what’s happening at SHOUT in 2012.

MANDATORY MISSION TRIP MEETINGS TODAY
High school (Virginia) and middle school mission trip meetings are immediately following today’s Parents’ meeting (at about noon) in the Sanctuary. The Haiti trip meeting is at 5:15 p.m. All students and parents of students that are attending a mission trip must go to the appropriate meeting.

PENNY WARS ARE RAGING
Who can raise the most money-the boys or the girls? To find out, bring your spare change to SHOUT to put in our collection jars NOW. Pennies add to your team’s total, but silver coins and dollars subtract from your team’s total. All proceeds of the Penny Wars will go to the 30 Hour Famine.

SHOUT MISSION TRIP REGISTRATION FORMS AVAILABLE
Stop by the Info Center to pick up a registration form for the middle school or high school mission trip. The registration deadline is March 11, but these trips fill up early, so turn your form in soon. Forms are also available at shout.hempfieldumc.com.

SHOUT’s 30 Hour Famine raised enough money in 2011 to feed more than 100 hungry children.

Challenging economic times and all, the SHOUT youth shattered their fundraising goal of $34,000 by more than $2,800 with a total of $36,834.15 raised, a number multiplied by six through matching government grants.

“I am constantly amazed at the generosity that God inspires when our passions meet his pleasure,” Youth Director Sean Garner said after the tally was finalized. “SHOUT specifically targeted an amount of lives to impact through fundraising that was LESS than the last few years because our eyes were on the stock market NOT on God’s abundant supply.”

For 30 hours from Friday, March 4, to Saturday, March 5, Famine participants fasted but the fundraising lasted well before and after their time of “loving hungry.” Money was raised through sponsorships from individuals in the congregation and community, partnerships with Isaac’s Restaurant and Loxley’s Restaurant on Centerville Road and private donations.

This year’s Famine will be held Feb. 3-4. Fundraisers are being held at Isaac’s on Centerville Road Feb. 9, 16, 22 and 28.

Did you participate in last year’s Famine? What impact did it have on you?

Following an earthquake and tsunami that devastated Japan in March 2011, members of our congregation responded with an outpouring of support for the relief efforts being undertaken by the United Methodist Committee on Relief in the region most affected by the natural disaster.

As an individual congregation, we raised $13,279.55 from a special offering taken in worship and through online donations given on the UMCOR website by members of our congregation. We also teamed up with other area UM churches to raise $1,836.48 through a fundraiser night at area Isaac’s.

Click HERE for more information on the relief effort our generosity as a congregation helped to support.

What other fundraising efforts for Japan did you participate in last year?