"Celebrating God's Presence, Serving All People"
United Church News August 30th, 2019
Brother and Sisters in Christ,

Some months ago, I ate lunch with a parishioner who had recently retired. For a few years, he and his wife had been struggling with their purpose in retirement and remarked, "You know, retirement ain't for wimps!" 

Indeed, it can be very challenging to transition from the first half of life to the second, especially when it comes to discovering the sacred work God has in store for us as we age. On Sunday, I will continue my preaching series on the parables with a sermon entitled "Play The Second Half" from the parable of the workers in the vineyard in Matthew 20. The parable teaches that the work to which God has called us later in our lives may be just as important if not even more important than the work we've had earlier in our careers or at home with our children. Following worship, our Labor Day theme will continue with a delicious Labor of Love Lunch hosted by our Social Events Committee in Disseler Hall. The committee plans to honor the work of all who serve on committees at boards at United Church. 

In Christ,
Pastor Mark  
Hurricane Dorian Update
Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

As Hurricane Dorian approaches Florida, we all take cautionary measures to ensure our personal safety. At this time, we do plan to worship on Sunday, September 1st at 10AM. Also at this time, the Bargain Basket will be open this weekend during normally scheduled business hours.  Due to hurricane challenges associated with our caterer and out of an abundance of caution for our members involved, our Social Events Committee has cancelled Sunday's Labor of Love Lunch following worship.  We do plan to have fellowship hour on Sunday in the narthex with coffee and delicious treats. 

Should there be a change in schedule at either United Church or the Bargain Basket, a subsequent email will be sent to the congregation informing everyone with pertinent updated information. 

May the One who calms the storms be with us.

In Christ,
Pastor Mark 
This Sunday's Sermon Title and Scripture Reading
Worship Sunday at 10am
Sunday, September 1st
" Play the Second Half "

Scripture :
Matthew 20: 1-16

Reader : Russ Howald
Deacons : Joanie and Dave Fuller
Ushers : Susan Setter and Mary Jane Irvine
Greeters: Bob and Susan Furek
Please be advised that the Church office will be closed all day Monday, September 2nd in honor of Labor Day. We will resume normal business hours on Tuesday, September 3rd. Thank you!
September Book Discussion
Wednesday, September 11th at 10AM

The Life of Billy Kim: From Houseboy to World Evangelist
By Billy Kim

On Sunday March 15th, 2020, United Church will be welcome to it’s pulpit world famous preacher Billy Kim. Billy Kim was plucked out of poverty and obscurity during wartime in Korea by what could only have been chance—or a miracle. Picked seemingly at random by an American GI to be the houseboy for their barracks in Korea, sixteen-year-old Billy began the path that would bring him to school in America. Later he would go on to be the translator for Billy Graham’s 1973 crusade, a preacher to millions, and an influential global leader for the spread of the gospel. He has been aptly described as the Billy Graham of Asia. The Life of Billy Kim is the story of how God’s work has been revealed in this one man’s life. For anyone looking for guidance as they serve the Lord, Billy Kim’s life will be a powerful inspiration of providence in a surrendered life.
Children's Church
Children's Church will now be learning the lessons on Paul and the Apostles. In this Sunday's lesson, s tudents will learn that the Holy Spirit enables people to understand the truth about Jesus. 

Lesson: Riot at Ephesus
Teachers: Marcy Marinelli
Bargain Basket Update
Sizzlin' September Sales!

Join us every day in September - INCLUDING LABOR DAY - for a surprise sale each day. That's right, something will be on sale each day in September!

Don't miss out!
Ladies Who Lunch
Each month, the ladies of UCMI invite you to join them on the first Thursday of each month for a fellowship lunch.

This month's lunch will be this Thursday, September 5th, at 1pm at Sam Snead's Tavern at Lely Resort.
Online Giving
To all those who would like to use our Online Giving Program, while up North for the summer or for the convenience, please click on the link below to see how you can do so.
This Week at UCMI
Tuesday, September 3rd
  • 11 AM Music Director Search Committee (Sunset)

Thursday, September 5th
  • 1 PM Ladies Who Lunch (Sam Snead's)
Upcoming Birthdays
9/3- Dennis Eckels
9/3- Gail Tseckares
9/4- Becky Krisko

We hope your special day is filled with fun surrounded by the ones you love most!
We're sorry we missed your birthday! If you do not see your birthday listed in the e-news please check with the church office to see if we have all of your info!