|
Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ, “All around the world, something's going on about Jesus' love. It's amazing! He loves us all so much with a love so strong. No one else could love us more. It's amazing! We're all a little different in many different ways. No matter where we come from God loves us the same. None of us is perfect so he forgives our sin. Jesus is our Savior and his love will never end.” Those are the lyrics to a song titled “All Around the World,” the theme song for our 2014 Vacation Bible School program. VBS was held at the Oakland UMC July 20 – 24. This year the theme was “Weird Animals – Where Jesus' Love Is One -of -a -Kind.” Daily, the children learned a Bible point that corresponded to a Bible story and a key Bible verse. For example on Monday evening, the Bible point was Even when you're left out...Jesus loves you! The Bible story was Jesus heals ten lepers (Luke 17:11-19) and the key Bible verse was, “I am with you always, even to the end of the age” (Matthew 28:20). Throughout the week the children were encouraged to finish a Bible point by shouting “Jesus loves you!” Even when you're left out.....Jesus loves you! Even though you're different....Jesus loves you! Even though you do wrong.....Jesus loves you! Even when you're afraid.....Jesus loves you! As I thought about the Bible points and the lyrics to the songs the children learned during their time at VBS, I though those lyrics/Bible points are not only good lessons for our children, they are good lessons for adults, as well. Even as adults we sometimes feel left out, different, afraid, and yes, we still make mistakes and need God's forgiveness. May you always have the assurance in your heart, that no matter what......Jesus loves you! And All God's Children Said, “Amen.”
0 Comments
Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
The 2014 Annual session of the Iowa Conference formally opened on Saturday, June 7, at 9:30 am. “Imagine: A Faithful Church – A Healthy World” was the theme. I would like to share with you some of the highlights of this year's Conference. Excerpt from Bishop Trimble's Episcopal Address – We Are Family “Do you know why we are here,” asked Bishop Julius Calvin Trimble as he began his Episcopal Address. “We are here because Jesus is Lord! This is our annual Christian Conference, our big family meeting in Iowa. We are here because we are family; and when we gather as family, God is always with us, stirring our imagination, moving our hearts and freeing our lives from the bondage of our sins and fears.” “Our strength and source of power as a church is not our budget or our stated beliefs, but in what God has done and Jesus has promised to continue to do through us. The work of the Holy Spirit is everywhere and for everyone.” Quoting the Common English Bible, vs. 26, the Bishop said: From one person God created every human nation to live on the whole earth, having determined their appointed times and the boundaries of their lands. “We are one family. We are his offspring.” “We can imagine a faithful church at its best when people on the outside can't wait to come in and experience radical hospitality and meaningful, moving worship; and people on the inside can't wait to get out to share the love of Jesus in neighborhoods all over the world.” “As a bishop of the church, privileged to serve in Iowa, I am going to pray, preach and push, as hard as I can, to promote the unity of the church.” When we get to heaven, there won't be a section for different religious denominations and political ideologies.” “We are family,” he concluded “Let it be so.” Imagine No Malaria Excites the Conference Iowa Field Coordinator for Imagine No Malaria, Rev. Katie Dawson, began her address of the Conference by detailing the 2010 statistics of exposure to and death from malaria. At that time one million people were dying each year. “We decided that is unacceptable,” Rev. Dawson said. “And so we decided to do something about it.” Imagine No Malaria was established in the Iowa Annual Conference in 2012 with the goal of raising $2 million by 2015 to fight malaria deaths in Africa through communication, education, treatment and prevention. Rev. Dawson displayed a map of churches in the Iowa Annual Conference that have participated in Imagine No Malaria (the Oakland UMC was one of those churches -thank you for giving to this mission). The tally for Imagine No Malaria Iowa as of Rev. Dawson's report was $1,956,304. “That's 195,630 lives saved,” she said. *At 2:45 pm in the Monday afternoon session (after taking an offering at the Conference for Imagine No Malaria) Rev. Dawson announced the new total topped 2 million -$2,009,907. Sunday Ordering of Ministry Service The service for the Ordering of Ministry for the 2014 Annual Conference Session celebrated the recognition, commission and ordination of 26 individuals (Congratulations to Rev. Brody Tubaugh, Pastor of Carson and Mt. Hope United Methodist Churches. Rev. Tubaugh was ordained as an elder during this special service). Bishop Linda Lee, Bishop-in-residence at Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary, offered the sermon for the service . Excerpt from Bishop Linda Lee's Sermon “We honor that day when the comforter Jesus promised and the power he told the disciples to wait for, were poured out into the world.” “The world is in need today of undeniable verification that God is indeed in our midst and that God's power is still at work.” “We are living at a time when a new depth of witness to the power of God's presence in the work is deeply necessary. There is hope that the church will be a place where people work together even when they disagree or have different cultural backgrounds or different theological understandings. It's important to hold on to hope for what God is doing and about to do in and through us.” “We are called to pour out our gifts because in doing so the power of God is made known and people hear and understand in their own language. They understand what is possible for them, for their loved ones, for all people. This is what Jesus did. He poured out all he had.” “Pour out the gifts God has given you. Don't worry about trying to do it like anybody else. Pour out your praise and your love to God, and others will be inspired to stand up and to offer their little light to the world.” “Your are the light of the world. Pour it out! Let it shine! This little light of mine, I'm gonna let it shine.” Thank you to Dick Merkle, Lay Delegate to IAC, and Louise for attending IAC. If you would like to read more about the 2014 IAC and/or read the sermons in their entirety, please go to iaumc.org. Blessings, Pastor Karen Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
You have probably heard the saying, “There are only two things you can be sure of – death and taxes. Actually that isn't quite true. There are more things we can be sure of -like the changing of the seasons. And, yes, this winter has gone on far too long, but we know eventually spring will arrive. Soon the days will be warmer, the snow will stop flying, the birds will begin singing, the flowers will start budding, and the crops will get planted. It's just that when we have to wait for something ( like the arrival of spring) longer than we had planned, we can get discouraged and even say things like, “I don't think spring will ever come.” Well, sometimes, we also feel that way when we have to wait on God. When God calls us to wait for an answer to prayer, we can get discouraged. We might even say things like, “I don't think God is ever going to answer me.” God understands our tendency to become impatient and discouraged when we are called to wait, so God offers Words of hope and encouragement, beautiful Words like- “But they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength, they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.” (Isaiah 40:31) “The Lord is good to those who wait for him, to the soul who seeks him.” (Lamentations 3:25) This month we celebrate Easter. When Jesus died on the cross, the disciples thought it was all over. They had waited three years for their Lord to turn things around - to free the oppressed and save the lost. And now, all was lost, or so they thought. The disciples lost hope. It happens to all of us sometimes, and that is why we need to always remember the Good News of Easter morning – sorrow turned to joy, despair turned to hope, death turned to life everlasting. Always remember : 1) For which reason, because we have righteousness through faith, let us be at peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ; 2) Through whom, in the same way, we have been able by faith to come to this grace in which we now are; and let us have joy in hope of the glory of God. 3) And not only so, but let us have joy in our troubles: in the knowledge that trouble gives us the power of waiting; 4) And waiting gives experience; and experience, hope: 5) And hope does not put to shame; because our hearts are full of the love of God through the Holy Spirit which is given to us. (Romans 5:1-5) Have a Blessed Easter, Pastor Karen Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
A while back I came across a Chinese Proverb about happiness that I have not forgotten. The Proverb states, If you want happiness for an hour – take a nap. If you want happiness for a day – go fishing. If you want happiness for a month - get a haircut. If you want happiness for a year – inherit a fortune. If you want happiness for a lifetime- help someone else. While I am not convinced about the truth of all of the above statements, I definitely agree with the last one- If you want happiness for a lifetime – help someone else. Jesus shared that same message with us in his Sermon on the Mount as recorded in the Gospels of Matthew and Luke. Jesus' teachings on true happiness are called the Beatitudes. Jesus teaches, “Blessed or happy are those who are merciful, those who show mercy- those who help people in need by giving of their time, talents, and resources. And it seems that even the health community has discovered this truth. Studies have shown that there are definite emotional benefits that come from giving, such as: increased self-acceptance, stronger feelings of personal satisfaction, reduced inner stress and conflict, enhanced compassion, empathy sensitivity to others. And there are even physical benefits that come from giving, such as: enhanced functioning of the immune system, improved cardiovascular circulation, healthier sleep, decreased metabolic rate. But the greatest benefit that comes from giving is spiritual. Giving of our time, talents, and resources is a way to grow closer to God. As a Pastor, in the past I have debated as to where to put the offering in the order of the worship service. Some Pastors take an offering before the sermon, others, like myself, take the offering following the sermon. At one point in my ministry, I decided I would consult the experts so I went to the Book of Discipline of the UMC. I read that the offering, our giving, is in response to hearing the Good News, the Word of God. Hopefully through the scripture and the sermon and the music and the prayers and through God's Spirit moving amongst us we are reminded of God's unconditional love and forgiveness and we are reminded as we read in James1:17, “Every Good and Perfect Gift is from above, coming down from the Father.” All that we are and have are gifts from God. So we respond from a grateful heart, hopefully not out of obligation or guilt, but from a sincere thankful heart. On Sunday, October 6, during the worship service, we will pray for God's blessing upon our gifts, upon our lives, and upon our church. We will ask God to inspire our hearts to give, love and live abundantly in the name of Jesus. I pray you will join us! And All God's Children Said, “Amen.” Pastor Karen Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
As I was thinking about the coming of a new year, I recalled words I had read about how to go into a new year. The words can be found in a daily devotional book written by Mrs. Charles E. Cowman titled Streams in the Desert. The book was published in 1966. I purchased the book in 1971 as a Father’s Day gift for my grandfather. The book was returned to me after my grandfather’s death in 1975. I found much comfort and encouragement from the reading of this book as I have turned to it countless times for over 35 years. I would like to share with you the words written by Mrs. Charles E. Cowman about how to go into a new year: “Advance into this new year on your knees. Faith does not concern itself with the entire journey. One step is enough. That first step is all that is needed. Breathe a prayer of courage to fill your legs as well as your heart as you face the unknown, the unexpected. What matters that you know not your destination? Put your hand into the hand of God. He gives the calmness and serenity of heart and soul. As He endures, you too, can endure the climb over sharp rocks and crags. Climb with Him to the end of the year – yea, even to the end of life’s trail.” Begin the new year with prayer, and hold on to God’s hand as He leads you through the year. I can’t think of any better advice than that! Wishing you a Blessed New Year! Pastor Karen Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ, We are called to come together to be one – to praise God, to love and care for one another and to reach out to those in need. We are the “Body of Christ.” In 1 Corinthians 12:14, 27 we read, “For the body does not consist of one member, but many. Now you are the Body of Christ and individually members of it.” In this chapter, we are reminded that we are all important parts of the Body of Christ. We have all been given spiritual gifts to use for the building up of the Body of Christ, the Church. Your active participation in the life of the church does make a difference. In Psalm 100, we are called to come together to worship, to praise and to give thanks to our Lord and Savior: “Make a joyful noise to the Lord all the earth. Worship the Lord with gladness; Know that the Lord is God. It is He who made us, and we are His; We are His people, and the sheep of His pasture. Enter His gates with thanksgiving, And His courts with praise. Give thanks to Him, bless His name. For the Lord is good; His steadfast love endures forever, And his faithfulness to all generations.” We invite you to come and worship on Sunday mornings at 10am. Let us all join together in praise and thanksgiving! Your participation is always wanted and needed!
Have a Blessed Thanksgiving! And All God’s Children said, “Amen” Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
In September I opened an envelope addressed to the Oakland UMC. The enclosed letter was a thank you to the people of the Oakland UMC for their generous contributions to the PET project. In April of this year our third Sunday special offering was designated to go to the PET Project. If you were able to be at the worship service on April 22, you may remember seeing a PET during the service. PET is an acronym for Personal Energy Transportation vehicle. The PET Project began in 1995 in response to a need for three-wheeled, hand-cranked wheelchairs for victims of polio and landmines. Reverend Larry Mills, missionary in Zaire (now Congo), Africa, told Reverend Mel West of this great need. Mel contacted Earl Miner, product designer, and the process to create a sturdy, simple, and low-cost vehicle to serve the needs of those with limited mobility began. Millions in our world have been disabled by landmines, accidents, disease and animal attacks. Many of these people live in areas where the typical wheelchair cannot go. The PET is designed to go where normal wheelchairs cannot. PETs are made in both child and adult sizes. All PETs are built by volunteers. The Mission Statement of the PET Project is as follows: The Personal Energy Transportation (PET) Projects mission is to provide mobility for all of Gods children. We seek to provide first for those in greatest need and with the least resources in poor or underdeveloped countries. The PET Project is a part of the ministry of Jesus Christ, whose disciples said, In the name of Jesus Christ, arise and walk. Acts 3:6. As disciples of Jesus Christ, we give because we know it is what our Savior has asked us to do. We give trusting God to use and even multiply our gifts in order to do the good w are called to do. Often times we do not know how our gifts has blessed others. The letter on the following page to all of you from the PET Program is a story of how your gifts have been a blessing to others. Enjoy and thank you for giving! And All God’s Children Said, “Amen.” – Pastor Karen Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
Years ago, when I was employed as the Parish Assistant at the Atlantic First United Methodist Church, I had a conversation with an inquisitive unchurched young lady. She asked me several questions about the church, which I have long forgotten, except for one. The question I remember went something like this, "Where does the money come from to pay the church's bills?" My quick response, "from the people who are a part of the church," left her wide-eyed and doubting the sincerity of my answer. As I reflected on the conversation, I could see that people who are not familiar with how the church works might think operating funds for churches come, at least in part, from taxes, government agencies, nonprofit groups, etc. When you think about it, it does take a lot of faith to build a church building and to believe that there will be funds to keep it going for future years. Yet, as children of God, we are called to be people of faith. Second Corinthians 5:7 reminds us, “We walk by faith, not by sight." Often times we don't know what is around the corner. We have to walk by faith. And as we step out in faith, we learn that God is faithful and can be trusted. The Stewardship Committee and I would like to thank you for participating in the ministries of the Oakland UMC by your prayers, your presence, your service, your witness, and your gifts. We thank you for your generous contributions to the general budget of the church and to the mission work of the church. Your generosity has made it possible for us to reach out to countless people in the name of Jesus Christ. On Sunday, September 16, when you arrive at church, the Stewardship Committee will present you with an envelope containing a giving card, a stewardship form of service sheet, and an automatic funds withdrawal form (in case you would like to set up an automatic withdrawal). You can take the envelope and contents home and complete at your own convenience. We ask that you bring your completed giving card and service sheet to church on Sunday, October 7, to be brought forward during our service of Holy Communion. Following the giving of the bread and cup, we will consecrate the giving cards. In closing I would like to share with you the following scriptures from 2 Corinthians: “Each one should give then, as he has decided, not with regret or out of a sense of duty; for God loves the one who gives gladly. And God is able to give you more than you need, so that you will always have all you need for yourselves and more than enough for every good cause. As the Scripture says, ‘He gives generously to the needy; his kindness lasts forever.’ And God, who supplies seed for the sower and bread to eat, will also supply you with all the seed you need and will make it grow and produce a rich harvest from your generosity.” (2 Corinthians 9:7-10) And All God’s Children Said, “Amen” Pastor Karen Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
It’s that time of year again. Time to celebrate our birthdays together! The All Church Birthday Party will be held on Sunday, August 19. This year we will do things a little differently. We invite you to join us for a light meal at 6pm (food and drink will be provided). Larry and Jane Kies, missionaries serving Africa University in Zimbabwe, will be our special guests. Jane is a United Methodist missionary with the General Board of Global Ministries teaching intensive English to students from non-English-speaking countries at Africa University in Mutare, Zimbabwe, southern Africa. Jane was born in Ndola, Zambia and grew up in Africa and England. Jane’s husband, Larry, Is also a United Methodist missionary with the General Board of Global ministries serving as technical advisor to the Africa University Farm. Larry grew up near Jessup, Iowa, where his parents gave him his love of farming and sense of global mission. Larry and Jane have four children. The Kies will share about their missionary experiences following the 6 pm meal. Around 7pm we will gather around our respective birthday tables and enjoy celebrating our birthdays together. We hope you can join us for this special time in the life of the church! Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ, July 1 marks the one year anniversary of our time in ministry together. I thought for this month’s newsletter it might be fun to do an “Oakland UMC Year in Review.” Following are some of the highlights of the last 12 months:
Thank you for participating in the many ministries of our church by your prayers, your presence, your gifts, your service, and your witness. It has been a joy and a blessing to serve as your pastor this past year. It is hard to put into words how thankful I am for all of you. You have shared the love of Christ with me in so many ways. I thank God for all of you and for the good we have been able to do in Jesus’ name. May God continue to bless our time together as we seek to love God with all of our heart, our soul, our mind, and our strength and to love our neighbor as we love ourselves.
And All God’s Children Said, “Amen.” Pastor Karen |
AuthorPastor Kim Dewey Archives
May 2023
Categories
All
|
RSS Feed
|
OAKLAND IOWA UNITED METHODIST CHURCH
200 N Main St - PO #4, Oakland, IA 51560
Phone: (712) 482-5530 Church email: oaklandumc@oaklandiaumc.org Web site: www.oaklandiaumc.org Facebook: www.facebook.com/oakiamethchurch Church Office Hours: T - F 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Pastor: Kim Dewey Email: kim.dewey@iaumc.net Phone: 712-887-0263 Pastor Kim observes Sabbath each Monday. In the case of an emergency, please do not hesitate to contact her by call or text, and she will respond as soon as possible.
All non-emergency calls, texts, and emails will be responded to the next day. Thank you for your thoughtfulness in assisting Pastor Kim with self-care in this way. It is greatly appreciated! Organist: Marilyn Hackett
Lay Leader: Merlin Jones 712-482-3687 Secretary: Martha Isaacson 712-482-5530 Custodian: Trevor & Megan Jefferson |