Church Services - Clover Sites
September 5, 2017
Speaking of Faith “I’m spiritual but not religious.” I hear that now and then as I visit with persons inside and outside the church. Another popular cliché I hear is “Christianity is not a religion it is a relationship.” While I think I understand the sentiments and feelings behind these comments, and I can even relate to them on my own level, I have always had a bit of a negative reaction to the comments when I hear them. I am not one who is immune to critiquing organized religion, it has plenty of reasons to be criticized. However, to criticize religion as a blanket statement, I have never thought was fair or necessary. There is some truth to the notion that being spiritual without connection to some forms, doctrines, and practices of organized religion can be a good and freeing thing. There is some truth, though I think less so than the first, that Christianity is a relationship not a religion. While I understand the thought behind the latter, Christianity, good, bad, indifferent…is a religion. All this being said, as I read and listen to particular practices and beliefs from some Christians, I too have found myself disheartened and uninspired. I have said more than once that I have considered turning loose of the label of Christian and reclaiming the original label of those who embrace the life and ministry of Jesus as a Follower of the Way. So, yes, I confess, I too have my struggles. At the same time, there is a part of me that says, “No!” That is my word too! I too am a Christian and I shouldn’t let the behavior, beliefs, or practices of others determine how I identify myself. I am reminded of a favorite author, scholar, and theologian, the late Marcus Borg. He shares a common experience when it came to belief in God, that I believe can be used to speak to this topic today. He shared that often a student would come to his class and on the first day say something to the extent of, “Dr. Borg, I just want you to know I do not believe in God.” He would respond with, “Tell me about the God you do not believe in.” This exchange would lend itself to a conversation about God and Borg shared, “Often the student would discover I did not believe in the God the student did not believe in either.” I think if we use this same logic and exchange when we say, “I’m spiritual not religious,” or “Christianity is not a religion but a relationship,” one might respond, “Tell me about the religion, or the church, you do not believe in.” I have to believe, often, we would discover the religion or church others do not agree or believe in, would be the same religion or church neither of us believe or agree with. The next two Sunday’s we will be exploring these thoughts during our services. On September 10, 2017, we will talk about “Does Religion Matter?” On September 17, 2017 we will talk about “Speaking of Faith.” I will be utilizing information and comments from the book, Tired of Apologizing for a Church I Don’t Belong To by Lillian Daniel. These two weeks we will be looking at religion and spirituality; are they really different or mutually exclusive? We will also be looking at the faith and perhaps thinking and rethinking how we speak of the Christian faith progressively. I hope you will join us as we consider religion, spirituality, and faith through a progressive lens. It is one of the many ways we find the Way Forward in this journey of life and faith. Until next time, know you are loved, you are not alone, …ever. Peace and Light for Our Journey, Pastor Kent
Lunch with the Pastor
Sunday, September 10 At noon Sunday we hope you will plan to attend Lunch with the Pastor in the church Parlor. Box lunches will be provided. The topic for September will “Be The Change” ways to volunteer. Also if you are thinking of joining the church or have questions, come enjoy lunch too.
Pastor Kent’s Blog - http:littlerev.wordpress.com/ Email - [email protected] Phone # - (316) 683-4643 Webpage - www.collegehillumc.org College Hill United Methodist Church A Reconciling Congregation Wise in the Ways of the Spirit, Bold in the Ways of Justice, and Graceful in relationships with all Creation.
Church Services 9:00 am - Sanctuary Traditional Service 10:15 am - Fellowship Hall Contemporary Service 11:20 am - Ward Chapel w/ Communion The 40 Worship Service Fourteenth Sunday After Pentecost SERMON Does Religion Matter? Rev. Kent H. Little
September 3, 2017 Attendance
234
Giving
$9,657.00
Our Sympathy to … Ronnie & Tommie Robinson, in the death
of Tommie’s sister, Velma Jackson, in Shreveport, LA on Thursday, August 31st. Sympathy also to Bradley Robertson and Irne Phillips, in the death of Brad’s stepfather, Garth Kennedy.
September 3rd Thursday Crawl
Be sure to call or stop in the church office and get signed up for the crawl on Thursday, September 21, at Madrock Sports Bar & Grill. It is located in Derby on the southeast corner. These crawls are a great way to get to know others in the CHUM family as well an opportunity to visit a variety of eating establishments around our area that are not chains. The church van will be available to take you if you need a ride. Look forward to seeing you there!
LifeVentures
LifeVentures is a nonprofit, interfaith community of active senior adults. College Hill is a proud sponsor of LifeVentures. Numerous classes are scheduled for their Fall session. A delicious lunch with a delightful program is offered every Tuesday. Their Fall session is from September 12 - October 21. Cost is $60.00 for as many classes as you’d like to take. There are $30.00 scholarships available. LifeVentures is based out of East Heights UMC and most classes are held at East Heights UMC located at 4407 E. Douglas Ave. CHUM members have served on their board of directors and continue to do so. CHUM members also participate in leading classes. Stop by the information center by the Parlor kitchen and pick up a brochure and registration form.
CHUM’s Women’s Group
Our September speaker will be Jodi Rice, CHUM’s new Children’s Ministry Coordinator. Please join us Wednesday, September 27, at 6:30pm to learn about volunteer opportunities in our children’s ministries! Ladies of all ages are welcome and we hope you will join us!
Brookside Clothing Store Boxes were packed and taken each
month to Brookside. Sweaters and coats are what is most needed now so drop them off at CHUM in the box. TGIF September 8 @ 6:30pm Genova Italian Restaurant 1021 Washington Rd., Newton Everyone is welcome to join us for dinner and conversation! For more information contact Janice Rich, 265-4879 Also contact Janice for carpooling.
Hey CHUM’ites We are looking for a few good people to help us have a presence at the Open Streets ICT day on Sunday, September 24. We need people to help from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. We will have a booth somewhere along Douglas, I will let you know as soon as they tell us where. If you could volunteer an hour or two, please let Brian know by email: [email protected] or by phone t (316) 683 - 4643. You can check out the event here, www.openstreetsict.com
Children’s Ministry Needs YOU!
There is a need for a paid position on Sunday mornings and/or Wednesday evenings. They also need a volunteer to help with Wednesday evening activities and Sunday mornings to help teach Sunday school. It is super easy to teach! Please contact the church office or Jodi Rice to ask questions, volunteer or apply. You may also contact her via email: [email protected].
Blessing Box Your help is needed!
We are in desperate need for snack and food items that will be placed in our Blessing Box. We have plenty of bottled water at this time. Canned meats, veggies and fruits are great to have on hand. Fruit cups also work. Bagged or boxed pastas as well as canned ravioli or spaghetti are good. Hygiene items are always welcome this includes toothbrushes, toothpaste, lotions, deodorants, shampoos, conditioners, etc. A big THANK YOU to all who contribute and allow us to continue this ministry to help those in need.
Change for Change
As of July 1st, we have collected a total of $1,000.00 a nd we w ill continue to collect through the end of the year. The monies will be divided evenly between: Chum’s Food Pantry, CHUM’s TV ads, and Wichita GLSEN (gay, lesbian, straight educational network). Thank you CHUM for continuing to give your change to this collection and we hope you will continue to do so!
SUNDAY SCHOOL CLASS NOTES AGAPE, Rm. 201 - Class was held at Eureka Lake hosted by Scott and Marieke. On September 10th, Nancy W. has arranged for Janis Cox to come talk to the class on the ‘Circles Out of Poverty’ program in Wichita. Wiebes will treat that day as well.
BUILDERS, Rm. 305 - Sunday, we start back on our series “The Old Testament” Lecture 17 - From King Solomon to Preclassical Prophecy. Poss has treats. Keep Charlie M., Nori, Chico, Sharon (health issues), and the people affected by Hurricane Harvey in your prayers.
CHILDREN, Children’s Center - We are in our study on the “Courageous
September 10 State Fair in Hutchinson 11:30am - 5:00pm Cost is $10.00
UPCOMING CALENDAR
Queen”, the story of Esther. We will be doing an art project on Sunday to go along with our lesson. Mission Project for Sept./Oct. is to fill the CHUM Blessing Box.
September 17 Movie Time 11:30am - 1:00pm At the church
COMMUNICATORS, Rm. 301 - We have Game Night on Friday, Sept. 8,
at 6:00pm on 2nd floor in the Youth Center. Bring snacks, pizza will be provided and Brewer’s are hosting. Many thanks to Deuser’s for our swim and taco party. It was great! Belated Happy Birthday to Pam M. and Linda W. Prayer requests: Pat’s sister-in-law, Kim Purci; Brad’s sister and her family in the Texas flooding; Donna’s brother, David; and all those involved in the Texas disaster. Thanks John for leading our prayer. Devotions next by Patti. John led us in “Saving Jesus from the Church”, chapters 1 & 2 - Science vs Faith. There is nothing science can uncover that disproves God. The author tells us there are at least 20 gospels not in the Bible.
CONTEMPORARY STUDIES, Rm. B5/7 - Finished up our Summer Session with Coffee and Conversation at Panera's! Happy Birthday this week to Bob Eades and Sheri Lichtenberger! Keith Williamson will return Sunday beginning Fall selection, The Great Spiritual Migration: How the World's Largest Religion Is Seeking a Better Way To Be Christian, by Brian D. McLaren. Read the Preface - Swallow-Tailed Kite.
DOUBLE CIRCLE, Rm. B4 - Moe opened class since Bob and Nancy are traveling. Dr. Brake and Nancy are back! Dr. Brake taught from Genesis 8: 20 - 9:17. Setting up a covenant with a symbol of the rainbow for Noah and all creatures on earth. Thank you for sharing God’s love. Lilaha shared about the passing of Nadine Williams. Don gave devotions. We miss all who can’t be here! We had 15 present. Happy 50th Anniversary to Dr. Brake and Nancy!
TRAVELING COMPANIONS, Bride’s Room B14 @ 11:15 am - Join us for discussion on spiritual development and personal growth.
FAMILY PICNIC
On Sunday, September 17, at noon, all families are invited to join Jodi Rice and her family at Watson Park. Please contact Jodi for the details. You can email her at: [email protected] or call her at (316) 683-4643.
September 24 Youth Sunday Youth will lead both the 9:00am & 10:15 am Worship Services
CHUM Nursery
The CHUM Nursery is available for children under the age of 4 years each Sunday. It is located at the west end of building across from the elevator next to Fellowship Hall.
Children’s Ministries Welcomes All Children! Children’s Sunday School for 2 year olds - 5th Graders Sunday school will take place in the Children’s Center during the Sunday school time from 10:15 - 11:30am. Take children directly to their classroom and pick them up at 11:30am from their classroom. KID’s CONNECTION
Begins on Wednesday, September 6 Every Wednesday evening 6:00 - 7:00 pm Children’s Center (basement) Watch for more details. All children welcome!
Non-Profit Org. US Postage PAID Permit 583 Wichita, KS
The Quarter Pole Is Collecting Quarters for Spaght Elementary
Christmas in July
Missions packed many, many donated items to be taken down this Fall to the Cookson Hills’ gift shop to be sold at a discount for Christmas gifts. Our thanks to CHUM for all the many items of clothing as well as items for the bathroom, bedroom, kitchen and toys & books for children.
The money now being collected in the Quarter Pole will go towards the start of school needs that students attending Spaght Elementary will have. Usually we start off the school year with an underwear & sock drive as well as collecting belts for these students. There is always a need so thank you CHUM for continuing to donate your quarters for the needs of these students! You will find the Quarter Pole on the volunteer desk in the church office.
Alternative Gift Market November 11 from 10am - 4pm University Congregational Church
Missions has accepted the project for Mar Elia’s Educational Institutions in I’billin, Israel. It was founded by Arch Bishop Charcour who spoke at CHUM last year. It is free to enter and gifts start at $1.00. Act locally, impact globally: gifts inspiring change. This market is an alternative to the overcommercialization of the Holidays a different kind of shopping experience! It features charitable gifts starting at only $1.00, fair-trade crafts and foods, café lunch, and more.
Speaking of Faith “I’m spiritual but not religious.” I hear that now and then as I visit with persons inside and outside the church. Another popular cliché I hear is “Christianity is not a religion it is a relationship.” While I think I understand the sentiments and feelings behind these comments, and I can even relate to them on my own level, I have always had a bit of a negative reaction to the comments when I hear them. I am not one who is immune to critiquing organized religion, it has plenty of reasons to be criticized. However, to criticize religion as a blanket statement, I have never thought was fair or necessary. There is some truth to the notion that being spiritual without connection to some forms, doctrines, and practices of organized religion can be a good and freeing thing. There is some truth, though I think less so than the first, that Christianity is a relationship not a religion. While I understand the thought behind the latter, Christianity, good, bad, indifferent…is a religion. All this being said, as I read and listen to particular practices and beliefs from some Christians, I too have found myself disheartened and uninspired. I have said more than once that I have considered turning loose of the label of Christian and reclaiming the original label of those who embrace the life and ministry of Jesus as a Follower of the Way. So, yes, I confess, I too have my struggles. At the same time, there is a part of me that says, “No!” That is my word too! I too am a Christian and I shouldn’t let the behavior, beliefs, or practices of others determine how I identify myself. I am reminded of a favorite author, scholar, and theologian, the late Marcus Borg. He shares a common experience when it came to belief in God, that I believe can be used to speak to this topic today. He shared that often a student would come to his class and on the first day say something to the extent of, “Dr. Borg, I just want you to know I do not believe in God.” He would respond with, “Tell me about the God you do not believe in.” This exchange would lend itself to a conversation about God and Borg shared, “Often the student would discover I did not believe in the God the student did not believe in either.” I think if we use this same logic and exchange when we say, “I’m spiritual not religious,” or “Christianity is not a religion but a relationship,” one might respond, “Tell me about the religion, or the church, you do not believe in.” I have to believe, often, we would discover the religion or church others do not agree or believe in, would be the same religion or church neither of us believe or agree with. The next two Sunday’s we will be exploring these thoughts during our services. On September 10, 2017, we will talk about “Does Religion Matter?” On September 17, 2017 we will talk about “Speaking of Faith.” I will be utilizing information and comments from the book, Tired of Apologizing for a Church I Don’t Belong To by Lillian Daniel. These two weeks we will be looking at religion and spirituality; are they really different or mutually exclusive? We will also be looking at the faith and perhaps thinking and rethinking how we speak of the Christian faith progressively. I hope you will join us as we consider religion, spirituality, and faith through a progressive lens. It is one of the many ways we find the Way Forward in this journey of life and faith. Until next time, know you are loved, you are not alone, …ever. Peace and Light for Our Journey, Pastor Kent
Lunch with the Pastor
Sunday, September 10 At noon Sunday we hope you will plan to attend Lunch with the Pastor in the church Parlor. Box lunches will be provided. The topic for September will “Be The Change” ways to volunteer. Also if you are thinking of joining the church or have questions, come enjoy lunch too.
Pastor Kent’s Blog - http:littlerev.wordpress.com/ Email - [email protected] Phone # - (316) 683-4643 Webpage - www.collegehillumc.org College Hill United Methodist Church A Reconciling Congregation Wise in the Ways of the Spirit, Bold in the Ways of Justice, and Graceful in relationships with all Creation.
Church Services 9:00 am - Sanctuary Traditional Service 10:15 am - Fellowship Hall Contemporary Service 11:20 am - Ward Chapel w/ Communion The 40 Worship Service Fourteenth Sunday After Pentecost SERMON Does Religion Matter? Rev. Kent H. Little
September 3, 2017 Attendance
234
Giving
$9,657.00
Our Sympathy to … Ronnie & Tommie Robinson, in the death
of Tommie’s sister, Velma Jackson, in Shreveport, LA on Thursday, August 31st. Sympathy also to Bradley Robertson and Irne Phillips, in the death of Brad’s stepfather, Garth Kennedy.
September 3rd Thursday Crawl
Be sure to call or stop in the church office and get signed up for the crawl on Thursday, September 21, at Madrock Sports Bar & Grill. It is located in Derby on the southeast corner. These crawls are a great way to get to know others in the CHUM family as well an opportunity to visit a variety of eating establishments around our area that are not chains. The church van will be available to take you if you need a ride. Look forward to seeing you there!
LifeVentures
LifeVentures is a nonprofit, interfaith community of active senior adults. College Hill is a proud sponsor of LifeVentures. Numerous classes are scheduled for their Fall session. A delicious lunch with a delightful program is offered every Tuesday. Their Fall session is from September 12 - October 21. Cost is $60.00 for as many classes as you’d like to take. There are $30.00 scholarships available. LifeVentures is based out of East Heights UMC and most classes are held at East Heights UMC located at 4407 E. Douglas Ave. CHUM members have served on their board of directors and continue to do so. CHUM members also participate in leading classes. Stop by the information center by the Parlor kitchen and pick up a brochure and registration form.
CHUM’s Women’s Group
Our September speaker will be Jodi Rice, CHUM’s new Children’s Ministry Coordinator. Please join us Wednesday, September 27, at 6:30pm to learn about volunteer opportunities in our children’s ministries! Ladies of all ages are welcome and we hope you will join us!
Brookside Clothing Store Boxes were packed and taken each
month to Brookside. Sweaters and coats are what is most needed now so drop them off at CHUM in the box. TGIF September 8 @ 6:30pm Genova Italian Restaurant 1021 Washington Rd., Newton Everyone is welcome to join us for dinner and conversation! For more information contact Janice Rich, 265-4879 Also contact Janice for carpooling.
Hey CHUM’ites We are looking for a few good people to help us have a presence at the Open Streets ICT day on Sunday, September 24. We need people to help from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. We will have a booth somewhere along Douglas, I will let you know as soon as they tell us where. If you could volunteer an hour or two, please let Brian know by email: [email protected] or by phone t (316) 683 - 4643. You can check out the event here, www.openstreetsict.com
Children’s Ministry Needs YOU!
There is a need for a paid position on Sunday mornings and/or Wednesday evenings. They also need a volunteer to help with Wednesday evening activities and Sunday mornings to help teach Sunday school. It is super easy to teach! Please contact the church office or Jodi Rice to ask questions, volunteer or apply. You may also contact her via email: [email protected].
Blessing Box Your help is needed!
We are in desperate need for snack and food items that will be placed in our Blessing Box. We have plenty of bottled water at this time. Canned meats, veggies and fruits are great to have on hand. Fruit cups also work. Bagged or boxed pastas as well as canned ravioli or spaghetti are good. Hygiene items are always welcome this includes toothbrushes, toothpaste, lotions, deodorants, shampoos, conditioners, etc. A big THANK YOU to all who contribute and allow us to continue this ministry to help those in need.
Change for Change
As of July 1st, we have collected a total of $1,000.00 a nd we w ill continue to collect through the end of the year. The monies will be divided evenly between: Chum’s Food Pantry, CHUM’s TV ads, and Wichita GLSEN (gay, lesbian, straight educational network). Thank you CHUM for continuing to give your change to this collection and we hope you will continue to do so!
SUNDAY SCHOOL CLASS NOTES AGAPE, Rm. 201 - Class was held at Eureka Lake hosted by Scott and Marieke. On September 10th, Nancy W. has arranged for Janis Cox to come talk to the class on the ‘Circles Out of Poverty’ program in Wichita. Wiebes will treat that day as well.
BUILDERS, Rm. 305 - Sunday, we start back on our series “The Old Testament” Lecture 17 - From King Solomon to Preclassical Prophecy. Poss has treats. Keep Charlie M., Nori, Chico, Sharon (health issues), and the people affected by Hurricane Harvey in your prayers.
CHILDREN, Children’s Center - We are in our study on the “Courageous
September 10 State Fair in Hutchinson 11:30am - 5:00pm Cost is $10.00
UPCOMING CALENDAR
Queen”, the story of Esther. We will be doing an art project on Sunday to go along with our lesson. Mission Project for Sept./Oct. is to fill the CHUM Blessing Box.
September 17 Movie Time 11:30am - 1:00pm At the church
COMMUNICATORS, Rm. 301 - We have Game Night on Friday, Sept. 8,
at 6:00pm on 2nd floor in the Youth Center. Bring snacks, pizza will be provided and Brewer’s are hosting. Many thanks to Deuser’s for our swim and taco party. It was great! Belated Happy Birthday to Pam M. and Linda W. Prayer requests: Pat’s sister-in-law, Kim Purci; Brad’s sister and her family in the Texas flooding; Donna’s brother, David; and all those involved in the Texas disaster. Thanks John for leading our prayer. Devotions next by Patti. John led us in “Saving Jesus from the Church”, chapters 1 & 2 - Science vs Faith. There is nothing science can uncover that disproves God. The author tells us there are at least 20 gospels not in the Bible.
CONTEMPORARY STUDIES, Rm. B5/7 - Finished up our Summer Session with Coffee and Conversation at Panera's! Happy Birthday this week to Bob Eades and Sheri Lichtenberger! Keith Williamson will return Sunday beginning Fall selection, The Great Spiritual Migration: How the World's Largest Religion Is Seeking a Better Way To Be Christian, by Brian D. McLaren. Read the Preface - Swallow-Tailed Kite.
DOUBLE CIRCLE, Rm. B4 - Moe opened class since Bob and Nancy are traveling. Dr. Brake and Nancy are back! Dr. Brake taught from Genesis 8: 20 - 9:17. Setting up a covenant with a symbol of the rainbow for Noah and all creatures on earth. Thank you for sharing God’s love. Lilaha shared about the passing of Nadine Williams. Don gave devotions. We miss all who can’t be here! We had 15 present. Happy 50th Anniversary to Dr. Brake and Nancy!
TRAVELING COMPANIONS, Bride’s Room B14 @ 11:15 am - Join us for discussion on spiritual development and personal growth.
FAMILY PICNIC
On Sunday, September 17, at noon, all families are invited to join Jodi Rice and her family at Watson Park. Please contact Jodi for the details. You can email her at: [email protected] or call her at (316) 683-4643.
September 24 Youth Sunday Youth will lead both the 9:00am & 10:15 am Worship Services
CHUM Nursery
The CHUM Nursery is available for children under the age of 4 years each Sunday. It is located at the west end of building across from the elevator next to Fellowship Hall.
Children’s Ministries Welcomes All Children! Children’s Sunday School for 2 year olds - 5th Graders Sunday school will take place in the Children’s Center during the Sunday school time from 10:15 - 11:30am. Take children directly to their classroom and pick them up at 11:30am from their classroom. KID’s CONNECTION
Begins on Wednesday, September 6 Every Wednesday evening 6:00 - 7:00 pm Children’s Center (basement) Watch for more details. All children welcome!
Non-Profit Org. US Postage PAID Permit 583 Wichita, KS
The Quarter Pole Is Collecting Quarters for Spaght Elementary
Christmas in July
Missions packed many, many donated items to be taken down this Fall to the Cookson Hills’ gift shop to be sold at a discount for Christmas gifts. Our thanks to CHUM for all the many items of clothing as well as items for the bathroom, bedroom, kitchen and toys & books for children.
The money now being collected in the Quarter Pole will go towards the start of school needs that students attending Spaght Elementary will have. Usually we start off the school year with an underwear & sock drive as well as collecting belts for these students. There is always a need so thank you CHUM for continuing to donate your quarters for the needs of these students! You will find the Quarter Pole on the volunteer desk in the church office.
Alternative Gift Market November 11 from 10am - 4pm University Congregational Church
Missions has accepted the project for Mar Elia’s Educational Institutions in I’billin, Israel. It was founded by Arch Bishop Charcour who spoke at CHUM last year. It is free to enter and gifts start at $1.00. Act locally, impact globally: gifts inspiring change. This market is an alternative to the overcommercialization of the Holidays a different kind of shopping experience! It features charitable gifts starting at only $1.00, fair-trade crafts and foods, café lunch, and more.
