Hennepin Happenings
News & Events @ Hennepin Avenue UMC
Friday, October 16, 2020
FEATURED THIS WEEK
Bishop Bruce R. Ough to Preach in Traditional Worship
Sunday, October 18 at 10am

Bishop Ough will preach a sermon called "Act with Courage" on this final Sunday of our Dismantling Racism: Pressing On To Freedom series.

Watch on Facebook, YouTube, our website and our mobile apps. For details, visit haumc.org/live.
Get Your "We Believe" Yard Signs!
Order online or Purchase in Person at Hennepin on
Saturday, October 24, Noon to 1pm

Show what we believe as members of Hennepin Ave UMC and put one of these signs in your yard!

Free will offering of $10 is appreciated but any amount will be accepted. Order your signs online here.

Within two days of your order being placed, you will receive an email with pick up date options. Contact Mary Martin, Director of Risk Taking Mission and Service and The Dignity Center, at mary@haumc.org.
New Discussion Group for Parents: Raising White Kids
Sundays, October 18 - November 22 | 8-9pm on Zoom

As we do the work of becoming anti-racist, parents and their children are having tough conversations. If you are a parent of white kids, you may wonder how to talk with them about racism and privilege in age-appropriate ways that emphasize allyship and compassion instead of guilt or shame about their whiteness.

What roles do we want to equip them to play in addressing racism when they encounter it? What strategies will help our children learn to function well in a diverse nation and affirm the beauty of God’s good gift of diversity?

All are invited to be a part of lively discussions around the book, Raising White Kids: Bring Up Children in a Racially Unjust America by Jennifer Harvey.

There is no fee to participate, so invite your friends and neighbors to join in! Contact Becky Boland, Hennepin's Certified Lay Minister, with questions: beckyboland@gmail.com.

Click here to join the Zoom Meeting by video.

Meeting ID: 880 8033 7787

Passcode: 460565

Join the meeting by phone by dialing 312-626-6799 and entering the Meeting ID: 880 8033 7787.
Winter Coat Drive
Monday, October 19 through Monday, November 9 | 8am to 2pm

Winter is coming!

Our neighbors who are experiencing homelessness, or have limited income to purchase adequate winter wear, are already looking warm clothing. Despite the frigid weather, they will have to walk an average 13 miles seeking to obtain services and they will have to wait at bus stops. Many will attempt to brave the elements rather than seek shelter.

We can make winter a bit more tolerable by donating coats and winterwear to the Dignity Center’s annual coat drive. From Oct 19 to Nov 9, purchase new donatable items, or sort through the coats in the closet. That one that you haven’t worn in years, that one that doesn’t fit as nicely anymore, that one that belonged to a loved one who is not around anymore – give them all to the Dignity Center. We will make sure that the poor and the marginalized receive your warm blessing – without charge!

Donations can be dropped off at the Dignity Center, or at Hennepin Avenue United Methodist Church. Please email Dignity@haumc,org to arrange a drop off day and time. All donations are welcome, but because of our population, lots of big male sizes are especially needed.

Thank you for your support!!
Safe Halloween Fun!
Trunk-or-Treat Halloween Celebration
Friday, Oct. 30 | 6-8pm
Hennepin Avenue UMC parking lot at 511 Groveland Ave. Minneapolis 55403 

Hennepin Avenue UMC is hosting a fun and safe Trunk-or-Treat event for kids and families in the community. On Friday, Oct. 30 from 6-8pm, all are welcome to come, in costume or not, to our outdoor Halloween party. Tour a spooky-good variety of themed trunks and vote for your favorites! 

All children will be given a pre-stuffed bag of allergen-free candy after casting their vote. No RSVP is required, but all must wear masks and maintain social distancing. It will be --boo!-- a surprisingly great time to be together!

If you're unable to attend, but would like to help, you can click one of the links below and donate candy that can be sent directly to the church:

Give to Build Beloved Community:
State of the Church Celebration
Sunday, Nov 1 at 11:30am on Zoom

Let's celebrate! Join us for the State of the Church Celebration, hosted by Hennepin's Generosity Team, to hear about the exciting ways God has blessed HAUMC and the world through our ministries. We will share ministry highlights, update you on our current financial position and give you a preview of the budget for 2021.

Join the Zoom meeting by video (click the linked text) or by phone by dialing 301-715-8592.

Meeting ID: 979 4733 5566
Passcode: 755523
Planning Forward: 
Charitable Giving and Tax Saving Strategies Workshop
Sunday, November 8, 12:00 Noon via Zoom

Planning for charitable giving can be a fulfilling part of our overall financial plans. And your plans often help to reduce taxes for you and your heirs while benefiting Hennepin Avenue UMC.

Join Cindy Aegerter and Jack Fistler for a virtual seminar to review options for making meaningful planned and outright gifts for Hennepin. Discover how the provisions in the recent CARES Act and SECURE Act may impact your giving plans. Explore how a Legacy Gift may be advantageous for you and Hennepin.

A Hennepin member, Cindy, is Senior Gift Planner with InFaith Community Foundation, and Jack is our director of Legacy Giving.

Mark your calendars, and watch for more details soon. For information, contact Jack 612-435-1321 or jack@haumc.org. 
MINISTRY NEWS
Update from the Koinonia Legacy Task Force

The Strategic Council and Koinonia Legacy Task Force would like to thank the congregation for responses provided to date regarding how to best utilize funds from a potential sale of Koinonia Retreat Center.

The Task Force has received 64 pieces of feedback through verbal, email, and other written submissions. Of the feedback received, approximately 55% of the responses suggest using the funds for Outreach, with nearly half of those responses specific to addressing homelessness, poverty or affordable housing.

Another 19% of responses recommend using the funds for facility and parking improvements.

Each of the following three categories received approximately 6% of the responses: supporting anti-racism efforts, addressing environmental concerns, and supporting music and fine arts. 

Given recent world events and their intersection with the strategic goals of the church, more information and input will be sought from the congregation in the coming months. If you would like to make a recommendation for the use of the Koinonia proceeds, please submit your suggestion to the following dedicated email address, koinoniaconversations@haumc.org, or reach out to any of the following task force members:

Rod Bacon
Dan Dahm
Lona Dallessandro
David Focht
Debra Hovland
David Kinyon
Faith Nutz
Chidi Omeoga
Brian Seim
Mark Squire
Judy Zabel
Passionate Worship
Dismantling Racism:
Pressing On To Freedom

Ibram X. Kendi teaches us that “the only way to undo racism is to consistently identify and describe it –and then dismantle it.”

In this sermon series we explore ways that our faith calls us out, compelling us to do the holy work of identifying implicit biases, describing the injustices of racial difference, repenting the sin of our indifference, and showing up to live love into action.

Worship this Week: Sunday, October 18

Act With Courage

This week's scripture:
Sacred Journey at 8:30am -- I John 5:13-21 (The Message)

Traditional Worship at 10am -- I John 5:13-15 (The Message) and Luke 19:1-10 (Common English Bible)
Bishop Bruce R. Ough will preach the sermon

All are welcome as we join together for conversation, prayer, and transformation.
Listen to Worship Over the Phone!

Would someone you know enjoy listening to our worship services via a phone call? Or would YOU? Whether you're away from wi-fi or just prefer a landline, we've got a new way for you to connect with Hennepin on Sunday mornings.

Hennepin's worship services are now available to listen to over the phone starting at 8:30am (Sacred Journey) and 10am (Traditional Worship) on Sundays. Call the toll-free phone number 877-790-4366 (or 877-790-HENN) and listen to the songs, prayers, and preaching you love. You can call anytime throughout the week--we'd love to have you 'listen in'!

Please feel free to share this number with everyone who might be blessed by this new way to connect.

For any questions, contact Peter Nielson (Office Manager) at the church.
Risk-Taking Mission and Service
Let's Chalk the Vote!
Now through November 3


Early voting for the November election has begun in Minnesota!

Let’s get the word out about voting in our communities, in a fun, socially-distanced way – through chalk! (Yes, you read that right.)

On or after September 18, we encourage you to host a chalk party in your neighborhood (i.e. sidewalks, bus stops, or parks). This is a great opportunity for families, small groups, or congregational teams to do something fun and meaningful together. Read this chalk party guide for ideas about hosting a chalk party, how to keep it Covid-19 safe, and sample voting messages to write.

Once you plan an event, register it here so we can see our impact across the state. You can even request that an MNIPL volunteer delivers chalk to you ahead of time! Then, share photos of the event with sam@mnipl.org and on social media so we can amplify our impact. We encourage you to use the hashtags #MNVotes, #FaithInAction, or #Vote2020.

Let’s get the word out about voting every chance we can – on social media, face to face, virtually, and even on the streets!
Free COVID-19 Testing at Hennepin
Saturday, November 7 | 12-4pm in the Hennepin Avenue UMC parking lot

In partnership with Hennepin Health and the Minneapolis Health Department, Hennepin is hosting a free walk-up and drive-up COVID-19 testing event.

Additional details are coming soon--watch this space for instructions about how to participate.

In the meantime, we are looking for volunteers who can help to direct guests and facilitate an efficient and successful testing event. Please contact Mary@haumc.org if you are able to help!
Are you in crisis? Financial Assistance is Available
AlignMPLS Uprising Relief Fund

Do you need help paying rent? Do you live in the areas in Minneapolis affected by the uprisings?

Has your workplace closed? Have your hours been reduced? Have you lost your job?

Align Minneapolis is distributing rental assistance funds for people living in the areas impacted by the uprisings in South and North Minneapolis.

To qualify, you must:
● be a Minneapolis resident
● not have a court-ordered eviction or payment plan
● have been denied or be ineligible for emergency assistance from Hennepin County
● need help paying rent where you currently live

For an initial screening and to start an application, call Align at 612-703-9978. For more information, visit alignmpls.org/era.

Align Minneapolis is an interfaith collaboration of 18 Minneapolis churches,
synagogues, and mosques and people with lived experiences working together
to address homelessness and poverty.
NEW!
Is the Spirit Calling You to Action?

Are you ready to organize and mobilize for social justice in our neighborhoods? Be part of HennepinHOPE, a new campaign of our Risk Taking Mission and Service ministries.

We're making it easier for you to get and share timely, action-focused news about local opportunities to take social justice action through protests, marches, donation drives, advocacy, petitions, and more.

*Follow @HennepinHOPE on Twitter
*Send email to our HennepinHOPE lay leaders at socialjustice@haumc.org
*Sign up to receive future HennepinHOPE email updates at haumc.org/email
Intentional Faith Development
It's not too late to sign up!
Disciple Bible Study with Bill Tipping
Weekly on Wednesdays for 24 weeks
beginning October 7
6:30-7:45pm on Zoom

As we execute and practice our commitment to being an anti-racist and justice-seeking Church, let's take inventory on what it is that we have to offer someone who asks us, individually, about the Bible, about Jesus, about Christianity, especially within the context of our expressions and actions around racism, social justice and inclusion.

Welcome to Disciple I, starting October 7! This 24-week study group meets weekly, and is led by Hennepin member Bill Tipping.

Discussions will take place on Wednesday nights, 6:30 - 7:45pm. via Zoom. No winter driving, slippers and comfortable chairs are welcome.


Once you have registered, use this link to join the Zoom meeting by video.
Hennepin Book Club:
The Sunday Philosophy Club by Alexander McCall
Thursday, October 15 at 7pm on Zoom

Join your Hennepin friends for our monthly book club, hosted by Jane Mylrea.

Please email her if you are interested or have questions: janecmylrea@yahoo.com.

Join the Zoom Meeting here. Meeting ID: 445 460 5643.
New!
HAUMC Library books now available via Curbside Pickup

Over 3,000 books in the HAUMC library are now available for curbside pickup! Curbside pickup service is offered from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Tuesdays – Fridays by appointment only.

Browse the library catalog, at www.LibraryThing.com/catalog/HAUMC. You’ll find books on anti-racism and climate change as well as biographies, current fiction, devotionals, and so much more.

You can also request a library team member to do a search and create a reading list for you--like a personal shopper for books!

And we haven’t forgotten the children – dozens of new books have been added in 2020!

Contact us at library@haumc.org for more information and to schedule a personal curbside pickup time!
LIBRARY BOOK RETURN
Tuesdays through Fridays, 8am to 2pm

If you've had a book checked out of the library since March, now is the time to return it. On Tuesdays - Fridays between 8am and 2pm, there will be a basket in the church entryway for this purpose.

If this time doesn't work for you, contact us at library@haumc.org to arrange for a pickup.
DAILY PRAYER CONNECTION
Join your pastors in a virtual get-together every Monday-Friday!
Twice daily, we invite you to start your day with "Coffee with Judy" at 8am for 30 minutes of coffee, connection and conversation; and end your day with "Closings with Frenchye" at 8pm for 30 minutes of reflection, connection and prayer.
8:00 – 8:30am Central Time
Weekdays M-F
 or
Join by phone using the dial-in information below:
‪Dial: 312-626-6799
Meeting ID: 842 8341 6140
8:00 – 8:30pm Central Time
Weekdays M-F
or
Join by phone using the dial-in information below:
‪Dial: 312-626-6799
Meeting ID: 892 5043 5902
Radical Hospitality
Coffee Hour:
Virtual Sunday Fellowship
Weekly on Sundays

Now starting at approximately 11am (immediately following Traditional Worship) via Zoom

It's good to see one another's faces and hear one another's voices!

Gather with other members of the Hennepin community for fellowship and connection.


Meeting ID: 897 1628 3933
Passcode: 701690
 
Join by phone: Dial 312-626-6799 and enter the following when prompted:
Meeting ID: 897 1628 3933

If you need technical assistance using Zoom, email us at support@haumc.org.
Online Support Group
Sundays at 6:30pm on Zoom

All of us are recovering or are struggling with something. In this time of pandemic, perhaps it’s isolation, loneliness, grief, or loss.

No matter your struggle, this group is a safe place for you to connect, learn, share, and listen as we support each other. No registration required. We look forward to seeing you.

Email dkfocht@gmail.com for more details, or just dial in!

Meeting weekly on Zoom. Join by video here.
Meeting ID: 944 6225 8131
Password: 427306

Join by phone by calling: 312-626-6799.
Online Forms for CONGREGATIONAL CARE
 
From your phone, tablet or laptop, you can share a prayer request or celebration, let us know about hospitalizations for you and your loved ones, or make confidential pastoral prayer requests.

To use the online request system, go to haumc.org/care from any of your devices. You can also call the office (612-871-5303), or email pastoralcare@haumc.org. The pastor on call will contact you as soon as possible.
Hennepin's Phased Reopening Plans
We're In the "Orange Phase"

As of August 14, Hennepin is in the Orange Phase of the Phased Re-Gathering Plan for Churches. We have reopened our church building for certain limited purposes.

Here is what to expect during the Orange Phase:
  • worship services continue to be held online only;
  • most groups and committees continue to meet virtually;
  • in-person on-site weddings and funerals are permitted for groups of no more than 50 people;
  • a receptionist will be on site Monday through Friday, 8am to 2pm, and the building will be fully closed on weekends;
  • throughout the church building hand-sanitizing stations are in place; 
  • appropriate signage has been posted to indicate spaces within the building that remain closed;
  • most staff continue to work remotely;
  • staff in the office wear masks, measure their temperature before working in the office, and are directed to disinfect their personal workspace before leaving;
  • members, vendors and other guests adhere to the same requirements as staff.

Thank you for your prayers and patience as we navigate the best way in which to reopen safely. If you have any questions regarding HAUMC’s reopening plan, please contact Joe Polach, Director of Facilities, by phone at 612.435.1335 or by email at joep@haumc.org.
Extravagant Generosity
New Hours, New Treasures at Old School by Steeple People

Old School by Steeple People will be open on Wednesdays starting October 7, 11am - 6pm. So our new store hours will be Wednesday - Sunday 11am - 6pm.

Donations accepted Wednesdays (12-4pm) and by appointment. Bring in your (maximum) 4 bags or boxes. No summer or Christmas items, please.

Winter Kickoff at Old School on October 7 as well! Jackets, coats, and sweaters will be fully stocked for your shopping pleasure.

Check out the gorgeous rattan Heywood Wakefield furniture set! It could be yours! Contact Joe or Molly at 612-871-8305 if interested.
United Methodist Church Dakotas-Minnesota Area
"Just Love" Special Appeal

When we’re fearful and fuming, depleted and damaged, may we respond by just loving God and neighbor. When we witness discrimination and division, callousness and cruelty, may we respond by loving justly. Just love allocates human and financial resources to assess and address crisis response, relief, recovery rebuilding, renewal, repentance and restitution, trauma therapy, and anti-racism. Just love addresses the food, Black home and business ownership, and health care deserts within our communities.

Your gifts will enable partnerships with our congregations on the frontlines to support ministries of mercy (crisis counseling, housing stability, food/medicine) and ministries of racial justice (education, advocacy, intervention). A Rapid Response Grant Team with representatives from urban core churches and Black congregational leaders will oversee special appeal allocations, and your donations will be directed to where there is the greatest need in rebuilding our neighborhoods. 

Give online here.

If you prefer, checks can be mailed to the Minnesota Conference at 122 W. Franklin Ave., Suite 200, Minneapolis, MN 55404-2472. Please note “JUST LOVE” on the memo line. 

Thank you for your generosity and stewardship of God’s mercy and justice.
New!
Make Your Offering by
Text Message

We're making it easier than ever to make your offering to Hennepin--starting now, you can give by text message from your mobile device.

Send a text to 73256 with the message: Hennepin $, followed by the dollar amount. For example: Hennepin $100 or Hennepin $25.

You will receive a text reply. Just tap the link in that message to go to a new page, where you can enter the details of your offering and provide payment information.

Once you click "submit," you will receive a digital receipt for your gift.

Try it this week as you join us for online worship!
SEND US YOUR ANNOUNCEMENTS
Do you have news to share in Hennepin Happenings?
Please fill out an announcement form at www.haumc.org/events.
The deadline for announcements is 12 Noon on Monday for announcements to be included in the following Friday's newsletter. 
Submissions are subject to editing for space and content.
Thanks for sharing your news!
511 Groveland Avenue, Minneapolis MN, 55403 | 612-871-5303