We are an open community of Christians who love God and serve our neighbors.  Luke 10:27
Maple Leaf Logo
July Issue
2016
2016 Vision
Mission
2016 Vision
We are an open community of Christians
INVITE To cultivate a culture of invitation to Christian community
who love God GROW
To commit to an ever-deepening relationship with God
and serve our neighbors.
Luke 10:27
TRANSFORM
To form life-changing relationships while serving others                           
It's here: CHRISTMAS IN JULY! 

The goal again this year is $15,000. Your "Christmas in July" offerings support three mission priorities:

For Our Church:

* Over 200 Thanksgiving meals served. On Thanksgiving Day Maple Grove opens our doors to welcome all to share a traditional holiday meal.

For Our Community:

* 140 food boxes packed and shared with hungry families at Christmas through Bethlehem on Broad.
* Maple Grove ministry teams prepare and serve monthly lunches at NNEMAP food pantry and monthly dinners at CRC.

For Our World:

* Imagine No Malaria--Maple Grove has helped reduce malaria deaths in Africa by half by distributing more than 2. 3 million bed nets. A generous offering this year will complete our three-year pledge of $30,000 to INM. You are amazing, Maple Grove!

During Christmas in July there will be Christmas cookies and carols, a talking turkey, a visit from Santa, and malaria updates from Africa. And when the goal is met, ANGELS WILL APPEAR!!!

You should have already received a letter in the mail with an offering envelope. Here are three convenient ways to give:

* Cash or checks (to "Maple Grove," memo: "Christmas in July")
* Text donations to 614-980-0790--in the message type: $, the amount you want to give, space, cij (for example: $100 CIJ)
* On our website Donations page-- choose Christmas in July.

Thank you and merry Christmas in July!
Vacation Bible School
The Brightest Week  of the Summer!
Sunday - Thursday July 10-14 6-8:15 PM
For kids toddler-6th grade
 New friends - Amazing experiments
Spelunker Sports - Lip-smacking snacks
Surprising adventures-Incredible music

At Cave Quest, kids explore what it means to follow Jesus through dark times. Kids participate in memorable Bible-learning activities, sing catchy songs, play teamwork-building games, make and dig into yummy treats, experience one-of-a-kind Bible adventures, collect Bible Memory Buddies to remind them of Jesus' love, and test out Sciency-Fun Gizmos they'll take home and play with all summer long. Plus, kids will learn to look for evidence of God all around them through something called God Sightings.
Register here

Adults and rising 7th and 8th graders, volunteer here.

EVERYONE--be sure to join us for Rock the Block on Thursday, July 14.  More info here ...
 July Worship
Christmas in July

July 3
2 Kings 5:1-14
Love Your Neighbor: Healing Is the Answer
Christmas Cookies and Holiday Sing-a-Long

July 10 - Casual Café Jazz Worship
Luke 10:25-37
The Good Samaritan
A Life-Sized Turkey


July 17
VBS Sunday
A Visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus

July 24
Luke 11:1-13
Teach Us to Pray
Malaria Update from Africa

July 31
Hosea 11:1-11
David Kushner Preaching
News from NNEMAP & CRC
Casual Worship Café
It's summer time, and the worship is easy ...
Both services (8:30 & 10:00) will be downstairs in Fellowship Hall. The music will be laid back. You're encouraged to wear casual clothing. Special refreshments will be available throughout the morning. We'll just ease our way into God's presence.   Casual Worship Café will occur on the  second Sunday of each summer month. July 10 will be a cool jazz service with the Good Samaritan. And August 14 will be like sitting around a campfire with stories and guitars.  
Casual Worship Cafés are perfect times to invite your family and friends to Maple Grove!
Continuing our  Love Our Neighbor Lecture and Luncheon Series
This series explores the challenges of living in a diverse world and the opportunities to love our neighbor. Lunch is provided and will be a cultural experience! Childcare is available upon request. Sign up in the lobby each Sunday. 

Because we believe we can love alike, even though we may not think alike.

Sunday, July 24  from  11:15 AM to 2:00 PM = Conflict Resolution
How do we work out our differences in a healthy, loving manner? Presented by  Tyler Olson MA, the Program Director for Conflict Resolution and Peace Studies at Cuyahoga Community College.

Click here to register online for the July session!

Sunday, August 21 from 11:15 to 2:00 PM = Reconciling Ministries
An inter-generational panel discussion. Welcoming all people!
Children & Youth Ministries {grow}
Youth Mission Trip
July 9 - 15
Memphis, TN

Thirteen youth and adults from Maple Grove will leave on July 9 for a mission trip to Memphis.  The team will serve in a culturally diverse neighborhood and work at a community kitchen, a boy's home, a senior center, and will also do some painting at the community center.  Mission trips take youth and adults out of their comfort zone and challenge them to let go of their daily routines in order to meet, connect with and care for others. A mission trip is not just a chance to serve but also a chance to grow in Spirit! Please keep us in your prayers. 
Spiritual Formation & Wellbeing {grow}
Pub Theology 
July 21, 7 PM
4109 N High St, Columbus, Ohio 43214

On the third Thursday of the month, join us at Rusty Bucket for Beer (optional!), God, and discussion. An informal, low-key way to think and engage others about life and faith.
Growing Valuable Relationship Skills through Stephen Ministry Training

Maple Grove will offer Stephen Ministry beginning in September and finishing next February. This 50-hour training will meet twice a month and teach principles and skills that equip Stephen Ministers to provide high-quality, Christ-centered emotional and spiritual care to others.

Whether you intend to become a Stephen Minister or not...you are invited to participate in this training to:
* Grow in the art of listening
* gain insight into the thoughts, feelings, and actions of people
* develop relational and caring skills you can apply to all aspects of your life
* learn assertiveness and how to firmly maintain healthy boundaries

Please contact Stephen Ministry Leaders Nancy Gay at 614.267.6418, Jane Rantz at 614.436.1812 or Cathy Davis at 614.262.1163 if you wish to participate in the training or if you would like to receive the care of a Stephen Minister.
God-Centered Wellbeing @ the Heart of Maple Grove

We all need someone to help us find peace and hope! Get connected with one of our  Human Connection Groups.

The groups currently in formation are: 

New groups currently in formation are:

 Anxiety and Depression, facilitator Sue Fletcher 
 Pregnancy and Infant Loss, facilitator Janet Thode 
 Coloring , facilitator Sandy Boger
 Walking and Talking facilitators Sandy Freer  or Mary Jo Weaver

Existing groups welcoming participants are:

 Diabetes, facilitator Bethany Glick 
 Fibromyalgia, facilitator Krista Keipper
 Veterans/Military, facilitator Bill Tenney
 Caregivers, facilitator Jacque Thorne-Harlan
 Family & Friends of Addicts, facilitator Jane Rantz 

You are invited to join any of these groups. Don't see what you are looking for? Suggest a new Human Connection Group! If you would like more information on a group contact the group facilitator or Marialice Bennett.

Buckeye Wellness Tips
FREE Saturday Morning Yoga 
Each Saturday in July
9 AM

Elaine Torrie, a Registered Yoga Teacher and Yoga Therapist, will lead FIVE FREE Saturday yoga sessions.  No prior yoga experience necessary, Elaine will teach to those who are new to yoga, as well as seasoned yoga enthusiasts, through an hour-long practice of yoga poses, breathing, and relaxation. Blocks and straps will be provided at no charge; however, please bring your own yoga mat. Join us for yoga on the Maple Grove Church Community Park lawn on July 2, 9, 16, 23 & 30 from 9 to 10 AM
Peace of Mind Seminar
July 7, 7 PM
Parlor

Peace of Mind Seminar Teaches the Value of Preparation Losing a loved one is a difficult experience for anyone to go through, but the weight of the loss can be lightened knowing we provided them with their final wishes exactly as desired. Please join us for a special presentation on the importance of arranging your final wishes so your loved ones feel confident that you are given what you wanted. Thursday,  July 7 at 7 PM , in the Parlor. We will outline the steps in the planning process and answer any questions you may have. This presentation is brought to you by Schoedinger Funeral and Cremation Service and hosted by the Maple Grove Caregiver Connection Group. We hope to see you there! 
Accessibility Task Force
Sunday, July 10, after both services
Parlor

As we continue to grow in the Spirit of being a welcoming church to all individuals, the God Centered Wellbeing (GCWB) team recognizes the importance of being accessible to those who are differently-abled. For people who are differently-abled, inclusion means providing opportunities to fully participate in meaningful ways in our church.

The GCWB team has organized an Accessibility Task Force to complete an accessibility audit so that we are able to address the needs of our church community. The task force members are: Stephanie Brickner, Dorothy Croy, Krista Keipper, Dawn Nauman, Jane Rantz, Sherri Scholl, and Jeanne Skinner. We will be considering things such as, but not limited to: seating for folks for whom pews are difficult to get in and out of, no access to the education wing without stairs, and ways to support those with visual, auditory, and sensory needs.

Sunday, July 10, we will meet after both services in the Parlor to listen to your suggestions/concerns that would help you or someone you know participate in all church functions in a more meaningful way. Please consider joining us for a few minutes after church. If you are unable to attend, please email Stephanie or Jane  to provide your thoughts.   We look forward to hearing from all!
Walking Connection Groups
Come Walk & Talk!
Wednesdays, 6:30 PM; Saturdays, 8:30 AM

Walking Human Connection Group we will be walking at Antrim Park on Wednesdays at 6:30 PM and on Saturdays at 8:30 PM.  We will meet at the deck by the lake.  Wear your Maple Grove t-shirt if you have one.  You can let us know if you are coming or just show up!  You may reach Sandy Freer at 614-530-7971 or Mary Jo Weaver at 614-582-0278.  Tell others and we hope to see you there.
Pregnancy and Infant Loss Human Connection Group 
Monday, July 18 @ 7 PM
Parlor 

An organizational meeting will be held on Monday July 18 in the Parlor at 7 PM. Anyone who has been touched by the loss of a pregnancy or an infant is invited to come and see and share in the power of God's healing love. The group is being organized by Janet Thode.  If you have questions or if you are interested in joining the group but unable to attend on July 18, contact Janet .
Coloring Connection Group
3rd Monday
Parlor

Come for fun, fellowship and relaxation and to find out for yourself why coloring has become a popular pastime. Sandy Boger is the organizer and the coloring Human Connection Group will meet the 3rd Monday of the month from 7-8:30 PM in the Parlor. You may contact her at 614.784.0024 with questions. All are welcome.
Families and Friends of Addicts Connection Group
3rd Saturday, 11 AM
Room 8

This group meets every  3rd Saturday of the month at  11 AM in Room 8 of the church. We are studying together the book " Breathing Under Water" by Richard Rohr. We honor the confidentiality of our members and loved ones. If interested contact Jane Rantz @ 614-203-9869. All are welcome!
Depression & Anxiety Connection Group
Beginning August 16, 1st & 3rd Tuesdays, 7 - 8:30 PM
Room 3

Are you feeling burdened by anxiety or in the midst of depression? Come and See!
A new connection group has formed at Maple Grove for those seeking hope while living with anxiety and/or depression. We will journey together to strengthen our connection to God and to one other while offering support, understanding and hope! We will be meeting the 1st and 3rd Tuesdays of each month b eginning August 16 from 7:00-8:30 PM in Room 3. We will have time for sharing experiences and for learning more about anxiety and depression. We will also learn new practices such as mindfulness meditation, tapping, breathing exercises that can be used at home. For more information, please call Sue Fletcher at 614-309-9620.
Diabetes Connection Group
RECIPE!

Here's a great cookie recipe for your summer cook-outs!
Cancer Care Ministry

Pelotonia 
August 6 & 7
The Cancer Care Ministry at Maple Grove supports Pelotonia. Pelotonia is a three-day experience that includes cycling, entertainment, and volunteerism. There will be a Cancer Care table in the lobby on Sunday, July 31 , to support this event. If you are a rider or virtual rider, please let Beth Wiley know so that Maple Grove can promote your ride. If you are interested in donating to a specific rider, please contact Beth Wiley at 614.256.8461. The ride will take place on Friday August 6 and Saturday August 7 ; donations are accepted through October. To learn more, register to ride, volunteer, or donate, please click here .

Movie Night in the Shoe!
August 12 @ 7:30 PM
OSU, The 'Shoe
As a continuation of June's Cancer Survivors Month, JamesCare for Life invites cancer survivors to Movie Night in The Shoe, Friday, August 12 at 7:30 PM (doors open at 6 PM). In honor of Cancer Survivors Month, JamesCare for Life will cover the entry donation for cancer survivors and up to three guests to attend this event. All donations benefit Pelotonia. Non-survivors need not register-simply bring $5 to Gate 7 or 8 on movie night. Movie title (family PG) to be announced. Details here
Gathering at the Barn SAVE THE DATE
Sunday, August 14, 12:30 - 4 PM
Morgan Barn (Gambier)

Join us for a good old time Methodist Potluck! The Morgan family will be hosting a Maple Grove picnic at the Morgan Farm in Gambier on Sunday, August 14 from 12:30-4 PM. Meat, table service, and drinks will be provided. Come bring a side dish to share, your own lawn chairs, and if you like, a yard game to play. You are welcome to hear about the Mt. Vernon Barn Company, hike the farm, have a moment to reflect in this outdoor sanctuary, time to visit with friends, and discover some last days of summer wellbeing. More details to follow.

Visit the God-Centered Wellbeing Bulletin Board. Watch for opportunities at Maples Grove and in our community to integrate wellbeing into all aspects of your life!
American Heart Association Heart Walk
August 27

A message from Maple Grove Member, Lana Runkle:  
Hello Church Family! As many of you know, my husband was diagnosed with a rare heart condition called ARVC. We have felt the love over, and over again from all you continuing to pray, and having us in your thoughts. On August 27, another Columbus resident with ARVC and I will be hosting a Team for the American Heart Association Walk. Josh and I had the opportunity to meet a couple Columbus residents with ARVC at a seminar at Johns Hopkins, and it helped us not feel so alien! I ask that you consider either participating in the walk (there is a 1 mile option or a 3 mile option), or that you donate monetarily to the American Heart Association. The AHA does not JUST study ARVC, that means if you know ANYONE with: cardiomyopathy, congenital defects, valve issues, cardiovascular disease, heart attacks, you are supporting a very worthy cause! Josh was just accepted as one of 12 pre-med students to work with a large grant (partially funded by the American Heart Association) to teach CPR to the public in conjunction with OSU's Wexner Medical Center, the hospital that saved his life. Right before the race, Josh will be teaching CPR for free to the public, so if you want to learn, or just brush up on your skills, you could join us for that activity as well. If you are able, I ask that you support our Team: ARVC with Sole, either in spirit, prayer, monetarily, or with your (awesome) physical presence. To participate, you do not have to donate any money at all. You have the ability to donate, or sign up for the walk on our team website.
Serving Our Neighbors {transform}
CRC First Thursday Dinner
July 7 @ 5:30 PM
Clintonville-Beechwold Community Resources Center

Beginning Thursday, July 7, Maple Grove has a great opportunity to provide dinners to the community on the first Thursday night of every month at CRC (Clintonville Resource Center). The group responsible for providing these dinners in the past is ready to turn things over to Maple Grove. As part of the "Feed My Sheep" mission, we will be able to help folks experiencing hardships have a nourishing meal. Typically there are 40-50 people (adults and children) who attend.. Please note, the first meal will be on Thursday, July 7 at  5:30 PM . Team leader for this ministry is Melessa Norcross . Feel free to contact her if you have questions or specific ways you'd like to help,   614.725.7501.  Here is a link where you can signup to provide specific items as well as serving opportunities, for Thursday, July 7. ( Coordinator Last Name: Norcross / Password: MG CRC)
Children's Summer Lunch Program
August 8-12, Noon - 1:30 PM
Park at the end of Broadmeadows

Maple Grove Mission Team will be serving lunch at the Broadmeadows site Monday, August 8  through Friday August 12 from Noon until 1:30 PM. Sign-up times will be available in the lobby after each service on July 3.  If you are interested in serving on this mission team one or two days, stop by the sign-up table and talk with Craig Preston.  New volunteers are always welcome!
March for Freedom Update and Photos

On June 4, Maple Grove Members joined Senator Rob Portman for the Columbus March for Freedom.  Columbus March for Freedom's Pledge is "We the people of the United States of America stand here today representing a united front against human trafficking, modern day slavery, the exploitation of women and children, and the violation of basic human rights.  We stand for the rights of freedom, liberty and the pursuit of happiness."  Thanks to all who participated to help bring awareness and find ways to end human trafficking in central Ohio. To view pictures from this event, visit the Maple Grove UMC photo share site .  For more information on Columbus March for Freedom, visit this link.
Adult Mission Trip to South Carolina 

To view photos from the Adult Mission Trip, please visit the Maple Grove UMC photo share site.

Church Events {invite}
RockVBS Rock the Block to Benefit JDRF!
Thursday, July 14 from 6:30 - 8:30 PM
Maple Grove Community Garden

Join Maple Grove and your community at our first-ever  Rock the Block party in our lot and community park! Ice cream, Ice Cream Sodas and more will be available for purchase from the Sock Hop Soda Shop ! We will have a geologist from OSU and an exciting rock wall experience!  Thursday night's festivities should be enjoyed as an entire family. We will not provide supervision for children that evening except in the nursery during the opening. This will be a family fun night you won't want to miss!  Be sure to invite your friends and neighbors because donations collected benefit the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.  Come & See ... and ROCK THE BLOCK!
Maple Grove Ca$h Mob!

cash mob
noun
1.
a group of people coordinated to meet and spend money at a local, independent business at a particular time.

The  July  Ca$h Mob will be Jeni's ice cream 4247 N. High Street ,  in Clintonville, Friday, Saturday &  Sunday,  July 15, 16 & 17 . Ca$h Mob Cards will be available in the lobby beginning July 3.   Jeni's is open daily from 11 AM to 11 PM.
Church Calendars
Church Calendar Links


Church Business
sparkly-4-july.jpg
Office Closed
July 4

In observance of the holiday, the office and building will be closed.  Have a fun and safe 4th of July!
Texting your donation?  Is that possible?!  

Yes--You can now make a contribution to The Maple Grove United Methodist Church with a quick text message!   Simply send a text to 614-980-0790 with the amount you would like to contribute. Make sure to include the dollar sign before the amount. Example: $25. Within a few minutes, you'll be sent a text with a link to register. Click on the link and enter your cardholder name and credit or debit card information. Once your registration is complete, you will receive a text verification and a receipt via email. For future giving, simply send a text with the amount you wish to give, and it will process automatically! 
Congregational News
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Deaths

We express our deepest sympathy to the family & friends of ...

Helen Turner, Maple Grove Member,  who died May 28.

Sara Barbary, Maple Grove Member,  who died June 1.

Susan Marie Davis, Cliff Wiltshire's mom, who died June 8.

Wayne Walls, Linda Cramer's stepfather, who died June 22.

Patricia Caston, Maple Grove Member, who died June 23.

Jack Frost, father of Sue Frost, who died June 27.  
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Births

 Congratulations to ...

Gregg & Kyla Dembowski, whose son, Leo, was born on June 16.

Rob & Nicole Bauchmire, whose daughter, Grace Ann, was born on 
June 23.
Recently Hospitalized

Rosie Blake, Linda Jerome, Keith Nash, Pauline Reed, Thom Stevenson, Millie Trent.
 
Notes & Thank You's

Click here to read notes and thanks ...