Volume 47
Issue 3
August 3, 2017
              
Food Truck Sunday Coming Your Way
Join us as we kick off the new school year, promote our kids, and enjoy an awesome food truck meal together! Promotion Sunday will be on August 13 - the time to move your kids to their new classrooms for the new school year. To celebrate, we have scheduled four food trucks who will set up shop in our parking lot:
  • Monzy's Deli
  • Old Town Pizza
  • Lazy Boy Bar-B-Q
  • Brewster's Ice Cream
The food trucks will serve from 10:30 am to 1:30 pm to accommodate everyone's schedule. Your family can eat in the Fellowship Hall or on the picnic tables in Dick Kelly Park (right outside the back of the Lighthouse). We hope you will join us for Worship at 8:30, 9:45, 11:00 Contemporary or Traditional and Sunday School and this great BIG Day as we celebrate our new school year together.
Back to School Bash
We invite families to join us Wednesday, August 23, at 6:00 pm, in Tyson Hall for captivating illusion and laugh-out-loud humor with a serious message of Jesus Christ from Terry Hedges. Terry has performed at churches across the country and Europe as well as the White House. He will be with us to share the Kingdom of God with a fresh perspective.

Dinner will be served before the show in the Fellowship Hall at 5:00 pm for $6 per adult and $4 per child (with a $20 maximum for families). The show is completely free and we hope to see you there!
Christmas Shoeboxes
It is that time of year for us to start making Christmas shoeboxes to send to our missionaries. This is a wonderful way to serve our missionaries and it is a great project for Sunday School classes, small groups, individuals, and families. Boxes include coloring books, flip flops, small toys, toiletries, school supplies, and clothing. We supply the boxes and coloring books. You have to supply all the other items.

If you, your family, or Sunday School class are interested in participating, please contact the Missions office or come by the church office to receive your boxes and a list of suggested items. Email Rachael Hayes ([email protected]) to coordinate the pickup of your boxes and items. The deadline to return completed boxed to the Missions office is Monday, September 17.
Christmas in July
We have the opportunity to give now and allow some of our missions partners to make the November/December holidays more meaningful to those in need. Please put the following items in the bins around the church labeled "Christmas in July" or bring them to the mission's office:
  • For the Car Ministry - jumper cables
  • For Hope Lodge - paper products from Costco; Solo spoons, knives, forks; Dixie everyday plates; and Hefty bowls
  • For Children's Harbor - wooden frames and boxes from Michael's that will be used for crafts
  • For Christmas shoeboxes - flip flops
Discovery Needs You
The church will be filled with over 300 students and over 100 volunteers for our annual Discovery weekend August 4-6. There are still many opportunities to help to make this event a success. Please see the links below or contact Juli Hansen ([email protected]) to see where you can help!
Sunday Evening Worship
Come as you are and share in a joyful service of worship with Kipp McClurg this Sunday at 5:00 pm in the Chapel! Kipp's sermon is "No More Sea" and is based on Revelation 21:1. We'll enjoy warm fellowship and sing the old gospel hymns.
One Member's Call To Ministry
Dalton Simpson can't remember a time when he was not a part of VHUMC. From kindergarten Sunday School, to 6th grade confirmation, to high school youth meetings and trips, our church was a vital influence in his life. He says, "VHUMC laid the foundation and helped me come to know Jesus Christ and learn to grow in my relationship with him." Dalton recently graduated from Auburn University in Building Science, has felt a call to ministry, and has joined the staff of Cru (Campus Crusade for Christ). He will return to Auburn and help continue the same campus ministry that had a big impact on his life. "Most college students are at a crossroad. They are faced with so many decisions for the first time in their lives. I want to point them to Christ and help them grow in their relationship with God." Contact Dalton if you would like to know more about the work of Cru at Auburn or help support his ministry (948-7018 / [email protected]).
Closing Out Fiscal Year 2017
As we begin what will be a very busy fiscal year in the life of VHUMC, the church is on stable financial ground. As of June 30, 2017, the Church was debt free (having paid off the loan on the church's pickup truck), our cash balance was over $143,000, and there was over $602,000 in current assets fully supporting the balance of our 30 Designated Funds.

As we return from busy summers and get back to our fall routines, please consider the many activities and programs that VHUMC provides. Giving in May and June was at its lowest levels in the past five years, and we need your support to make sure all of those great programs have the financial backing they need.

VHUMC is in a very sound financial position, and 2018 should be an exciting year! As always, if you any questions and/or concerns, feel free to reach out to Gary, Natalie, or me if you have questions about the Church's finances.

Jim Harper, Finance Committee Chairman
Promotion Sunday
Promotion Sunday is August 13! Be on the lookout for a postcard from our Preschool or Elementary Ministries to let you know your child's class for the 2017-2018 school year. We will all meet in our new rooms on August 13. We hope to see you there!
Rising 1st Graders
We are looking forward to the rising 1st graders joining our Elementary Ministries on promotion Sunday - August 13! This Sunday, August 6, we will bring them down from their kindergarten class during Sunday School to visit the elementary floor. Children should be dropped off and picked up in their current classrooms. We will walk the children down to the elementary floor, talk to them about elementary Sunday School, and have some fun! We look forward to watching all of these children grow in Christ!
3rd Grade Bible Presentation
It is the tradition at Vestavia Hills United Methodist to give a Bible to all of our third graders each year. If you are a member at VHUMC, or feel that VHUMC is your church home, we want to make sure that we have your child listed to receive a Bible. We would also like to personalize each Bible by engraving your child's name on the outside cover, but we can only do that if you provide us with the information by August 16. Please click on the link below to let us know what name you would like printed on your child's Bible. The Bibles will be presented to the children on Sunday, September 17, at the 11:00 traditional worship service in the Sanctuary. We hope you will make plans to attend. We are excited to celebrate this important occasion as a church family!
4th Grade Party
Most of our rising 4th graders will be combining together this year for the first time at Vestavia Hills Elementary Central.We would like to help them take this big step in their life by having them all together for a party. Our rising 4th graders are invited to come to the Lighthouse on Friday, August 11, from 3:30-5:00 pm for skating, ice cream, and games!Please register your child by clicking the link. We are praying for all of our children as they prepare to begin another school year!

Vestavia Dance Registration
Registration is now underway for Vestavia Dance. We have classes in ballet, pointe, lyrical, jazz, tap, clogging, and hip hop. Classes begin the week of August 28 and are held in the upstairs Lighthouse dance studios.

Magic City Nutcracker Auditions
Auditions for our Magic City Nutcracker will be Saturday, September 9, in the Lighthouse. Five-year-old's to adults are invited to be a part of our fantastic performance of the wonderful holiday tale. Come join us as we celebrate our 5th year!

Student Choir Kick-Off
Calling all students! The New Life Singers Student Choir will have its kick-off celebration for the 2017-2018 school year on Sunday, August 20, at 4:00 pm in the choir room. We hope all youth will consider being a part this year. Bring a friend and hang out with us. Look for more reasons to join in the weekly student newsletter. For any questions or more information contact Quint Harris ([email protected]).
Elementary Children 5-Minute Mission
When the last 5-Minute Missions supplies did not arrive in time because of shipping and storm delays, the event had to be postponed. But God had another plan. The elementary children were looking for a mission project over the summer. Because of the delay, the children were able to complete the 5-Minute Missions in record time during the SS hour and still had time for their lessons. The first-fourth graders got together on Sunday, July 23, and completed 200 bags for our mission partners: Oak Mountain Missions, Piper Place, and Hope Lodge.

The children had such a great time serving others and learning the importance of serving. You are never too young to learn to serve and help others. A special thank you to Susan Holt and Scottie Vickery for organizing this mission project for the children.
Join a Women's 2, 4, 6 Group
We know that women need and depend on each other to talk through their busy lives. We are creating "2, 4, 6" groups to meet that need! Groups will consist of 2 hours, 4 questions, and 6 women around a table. You can establish your own group of six women, or sign up to be placed in a group. For two hours, you will enjoy a meal together, discuss your faith, and share in fellowship. Groups will begin in September, and you can hold your group or join a group meeting at a day and time that works for you. If you would like to sign up to join a group, or if you would be interested in leading or starting a group, please contact Ruth Grissom ([email protected]). Don't miss out on this opportunity to share your discipleship journey with one another through a 2, 4, 6 small group!
Missionary from Tanzania
Thank you to everyone who came to hear Eric Soard, our missionary from Tanzania, speak in July. I know we all learned a lot about how they are sharing God and empowering communities. We will continue to learn about ways VHUMC can get involved and help support Eric and his family while they continue to do God's work in Africa.
New Boomer Bible Study
Join our new Boomer Bible Study on the first and third Thursdays, from August 3 through November 16, at 6:30 pm, in room 320. Jim Frazier will be leading an eight-session study on Boomer Spirituality. The class is free and books are provided. For more information, please contact Jim Frazier (769-0126 / [email protected]).
Is Your House Safe
VHUMC has a Home Safety Team who want to help make your house safer. They have been trained by the Vestavia Hills Fire Department and would be glad to set an appointment and come inspect your home. If you would like to have your house inspected there is no charge. For more information contact Jim Frazier ([email protected] / 769-0126).
Run with VHUMC Runners
Interested in running but not sure how to get started? Maybe you are a runner and are looking for a group to train with because you are tired of running alone? Perhaps you would like to run a race but aren't sure where to start? Whatever your motivation might be, let VHUMC help you achieve your goals.

VHUMC Runners is a running group of mixed pace runners that run daily. The group meets at 5:30 am Monday-Friday in the Lighthouse parking lot and Saturdays at 6:00 am at the Trak Shak or Lakeshore Trail. Whether you want to train for a race, or just want to get moving, we have a program ready for you. Runners from any pace and ability level are welcome to join. Lace up your running shoes and join us for running, racing, fellowship, and more! Contact Megan Drumm ([email protected] / 769-0139) with any questions. We look forward to seeing you on the running trail!
Upward Flag Football/Cheerleading
Football season is coming up! Sign up for Upward Flag Football and Cheerleading at VHUMC. Join the fun, learning, and faith with your community! The cost is $105 per participant, $115 for late sign up. The deadline for registration is August 22. Register by clicking the link below or pick up a form at the Lighthouse!

Men's Basketball League
Come join us for our Men's Basketball League! Ages 18 and older can create teams and compete in the league! Games are on Tuesday nights from August 29 - October 17. The cost is $400 per team. The deadline to register is Friday, August 18. For more information, contact Miles Erbe ([email protected] / 769-0134).
Hoover Adult Softball League
The Hoover Parks and Recreation is having a Church League as part of its Adult Softball Leagues. The cost of registering a team is $275 and the deadline is Friday, August 18. For those interested in putting a team together or if there are any questions, please contact Miles Erbe ([email protected]).
Birthday Parties in the Lighthouse
Come celebrate your birthday at The Lighthouse at Vestavia Hills United Methodist Church. We offer a wonderful facility with a variety of activities to make celebrating your day extra special! Birthday parties are offered during the following times:
  • Saturday 10:00 am -12:00 noon or 1:00-3:00 pm
  • Weeknights and Sundays (subject to gym and lobby availability)
To make reservations or for additional details and pricing, please contact Megan Drumm (769-0139) or Miles Erbe (769-0134). We look forward to celebrating with you!
Trailmixers Informational Meeting
 Interested in hiking and looking to join a group? Join the Trailmixers for an informational meeting on Tuesday, August 22, at 6:00 pm. The meeting will take place in room 245 in the Lighthouse. Women of all ages are welcome to attend! Please contact Megan Drumm ([email protected]) for additional details.
Conservatory of the Arts
Click the link or contact Ellen Bryant ([email protected] / 769-0123) to register or for more information about these items.



Attention All Band Students
Did you know that the Conservatory of the Arts has teachers for all band instruments? Vestavia band instructors recommend private lessons for their band students.

Fall Theatre Classes
Register now for Fall Theatre classes which begin the week of August 28. Classes are available on Mondays for students in Grades 3-6 and on Tuesday afternoons for students in Grades 7-12.

Fall Art Classes
Sign up now for Fall Art Classes which begin the week of August 14! Regular Art Classes are available after school (or earlier for homeschooled students) at 4:15 pm on Thursdays. For older students, advanced art classes are held on Tuesdays at 4:15 pm. The class fee is $150 for eight weeks and includes all supplies.

New Clay Class
Two classes will be offered on Monday afternoons/evenings beginning September 7. One for youth (ages 10+) and one for high school students and adults. All students will use their hands and/or a pottery wheel to create both functional and unique clay pieces. These classes will be taught by Larry Gibson, Art Instructor at Pizitz Middle School. The class fee is $150 for ten classes.
Gospel Jubilee Singers
This Sunday our Gospel Jubilee Singers will gather in the Chapel at 4:00 pm, before Sunday Evening Worship, to sing some of the great songs of our faith. We hope to see you there!
Memorials and Honorariums
Click on the link below or visit www.vhumc.org to see the memorials and honorariums given last month. Thanks to everyone who has given to help the church in recognition of a loved one.

Ongoing Outreach
Food Pantry
The Food Pantry families love receiving the fresh fruits and veggies from our Farmers' Market. Thanks to our church members who are providing these for them. Others who wish to help can always provide spaghetti sauce, pancake mix, syrup, and jelly. Your monetary donations help us purchase food from the Community Food Bank. We have purchased over 300,000 pounds from them thus far. Thank you for your continued support!

Oak Mountain Mission
Oak Mountain Mission's annual Harvest of Hope luncheon will be on Tuesday, September 12, at The Club. Please email Barbara Porter ([email protected]) if you would like to attend and join us at one of our five tables. The silent auction at 10:00 am with lunch at 11:30 am. Questions, call Barbara 444-9793. Thank you.
Worship & Music Focus

8:30 am         Traditional Service
Genesis 50:15-21
"Hindsight"
Bill Brunson

9:45 am         Service of Word and Table (Chapel)
Genesis 50:15-21
"The Rest of the 'Rejection' Story!"
Butch Williams

9:45 am         Discovery Service (Sanctuary)
Matthew 28:16-20
Courtney Westhoven

11:00 am         Traditional Service
Genesis 50:15-21
"Hindsight"
Bill Brunson

11:00 am         Contemporary Service
Genesis 50:15-21
"Living the Dream"
Kipp McClurg

5:00 pm         Sunday Evening Worship
Revelation 21:1
"No More Sea"
Kipp McClurg
Our Time and Resources
 

Donations this past week
Actual
$40,186
Targeted
-$19,637

(+) Better or (-) worse for the church than our target
* Includes COA, Summer Days, VDS, and Vestavia Dance
Worship service attendance last Sunday:    736
Care and Support
Congratulations, hospitalizations, and sympathies

Prayer Requests
Please be in prayer for the following persons: