“With Friends Like These”

Mark 14:53-72

Jesus is condemned and betrayed by those who should have known better.

Communion Sunday

In Person

Rev. Bud Reeves

Offertory “Let Us Break Bread Together”

Debby Underhill, solo

Organist: Benjamin Henderson  

11:00 am Connexion

In Person, 6pm Premier Monday on Facebook and YouTube

Rev. DeeDee Autry

“Your Grace Is Enough”

“You’ve Already Won”

“Build My Life”

“The Stand”

11:00 am Sanctuary

In Person,Facebook Live,

YouTube and FM 103.5

Rev. Bud Reeves

Anthem “I’m Not Ashamed”

Offertory “God So Loved the World”

Rylee Norton, soloist

Chancel Choir

Gaye Mings, Chancel Choir Director

Benjamin Henderson, Organist

IN CASE YOU MISSED THE NEWS….

I am beyond pleased about two things. One is that we already know who our next senior pastor is going to be. The United Methodist system of appointing pastors is certainly not perfect, but I sure think it beats having to form a search committee and trying for a long time to find a pastor to come to your church. As Winston Churchill said about democracy, “It’s the worst system of all, except for all the others.” Our Staff-Parish Relations Committee was consulted and created a profile of preferences. Then the bishop and cabinet (District Superintendents) went to work to match a leader to our church and mission field. It is such a comfort to know that there will be no gap in the leadership of our church this summer. As soon as I dismount, the reins will be in the hands of the new senior pastor, who will continue the race.

That’s the other thing I am more than pleased about. Last week we announced that the Rev. Dr. Blake Bradford will be appointed as our new senior pastor in June. I have known Blake for 20 years. We started our doctoral work together at Perkins School of Theology (although he was a lot younger than I was). I have worked with Blake in several capacities over the years, most recently as our own District Superintendent. He brings so much skill, knowledge, and passion to the leadership of the church. Across the conference, he would have been my pick if I had had a vote. I believe he will be a great fit for FSFUMC.

Below is the announcement we made via email and Facebook in case you missed it. Now we can take a deep breath, enjoy our last few months in ministry together, and get ready to welcome Blake and Kerri to FSFUMC!

The Staff-Parish Relations Committee is excited to announce that Bishop Merrill will be appointing Rev. Dr. Blake Bradford as our next senior pastor in the upcoming session of the Arkansas Conference. Blake is passionate about encouraging Christian leaders in our shared mission of growing disciples and connecting the church to the community. He is currently serving in his sixth year as a district superintendent in the Arkansas Conference, having served with both the Central and Northwest Districts. In addition to his work as a pastor and district superintendent, Blake consults with churches and United Methodist Conferences across the country, leads workshops for national gatherings, and has authored and co-authored five books, including IMPACT! Reclaiming the Call of Lay Ministry and the Mission Possible series of books to assist congregations in their governance and leadership.

In sharing his joy about the appointment, Blake said, “It is an honor to be appointed to FUMC and to follow after Pastor Bud Reeves, who has been a friend and mentor to me. First United Methodist Church of Fort Smith has a legacy of outstanding fruitfulness in ministry, and the congregation has been a leader both in the River Valley and in the UMC for decades. I have spent the last several years resourcing congregations and leaders as they seek to be engaged in vital ministry in their neighborhoods. As the church faces new opportunities and challenges in this next season ahead, I am excited to journey alongside such faithful disciples as we, together, seek to make a God-sized impact in and with the people of the larger Fort Smith community. I am eager to connect with the entire Fort Smith First UMC congregation, and especially the younger generation of families, as we work together for a future filled with hope.”

Baptized into the UMC as a college student and receiving a call to ministry while in graduate school, Blake has pastored churches of different sizes and contexts in Denver and Arkansas, including serving as executive pastor of Saint James UMC, a 3500-member congregation in Little Rock. Before his appointment to the cabinet, Blake served the Arkansas Conference Center for Vitality as a congregational coach and conflict transformation mediator. Dr. Bradford, a graduate of Hendrix, Vanderbilt, Iliff School of Theology, and Perkins School of Theology at SMU, also holds a second-degree black belt, which he jokes about as his best training for ministry. He and his wife, Kerri, are natives of the Little Rock area, and they have two college-age children and a “geriatric house panther” (aka a black cat named Moses).

We look forward to having Blake begin his service with us in July, and the SPRC will keep you posted on specific details regarding our plans to welcome the Bradfords. In the meantime, we ask that you pray for Blake and Kerri as they prepare to join our First UMC family.

As you have heard,

from earlier communication this week, it is the intention of Bishop Laura Merrill to appoint me as the new District Superintendent of the South District in Arkadelphia, AR. This appointment would be effective July 1st.

Well over a year ago, I had a conversation with a trusted mentor, or we re-visited a conversation we had had very early in my ministry. I was dreaming and sharing with him all that I wanted to experience in my ministry life…ways I wanted to serve, things that I hoped I would get a chance to experience. His response to my bantering was simply, “you need to get a whole lot more experience.” I took that as marching orders. From that day on, I opened myself to every opportunity that came my way for me to grow and expand myself as a person, a pastor, as a leader. When I look back at all the resources that have been poured into me, it is mind-boggling. 

When John and I moved back to Fort Smith 5 years ago I was beat down and exhausted. I needed space to rest and heal and just be. Fortunately, I could take leave and hang out my coaching shingle and just go about life. There was no question that we would find our seat in the congregation of Fort Smith FUMC to worship, breathe deep peace, feel love and be welcomed. For a year that is what we did, and it was wonderful. A year later I found myself saying yes to serving among you in a part-time capacity and navigating a pandemic…something we could have never predicted. During those days of uncertainty, it was a powerful reminder of God’s call that got me through some of the hardest days. So, when the opportunity presented itself to move into the Executive Associate position, it just all seemed so natural. It was an opportunity to serve in a capacity that I had longed to experience…utilizing a skill set that I felt I had been crafting for a long time. These past 3 years have been an incredible experience developing myself with a broader skill set. And the opportunity to learn from Bud has been priceless. I will be forever grateful for the trust and confidence he has placed in me.

But back to that early conversation…I believe God has been preparing me for such a time as this. Now is the time to move into this new space of serving God and the church in the ways I felt early in my ministry. Today I have a toolbox full of what I need to successfully step into this new role. And the landscape is perfectly set for us to do so. 

FSFUMC is entering into a new season of ministry that is exciting and I believe will bring about some profound realities of God’s plans for you. And you have prepared me well for what lies ahead for my ministry…you have loved me as a child, you nurtured me as a youth, you encouraged me in my faith journey, you have celebrated me along my ministry path, and allowed me the privilege to lead you as we shared these last few years together. Serving as your pastor has been a hallmark in my story.

As I shared with the staff, leaving this appointment is much different than any other. This is home and always will be. What a comfort it has been to love so many of you that I’ve known for most of my life, and to embrace new friends and connections in my hometown. It is all so bittersweet. 

May the time we have left be filled with lots of love and laughter, great times of praise and worship, and the assurance that God is with us through it all.

March 24 PALM SUNDAY 

March 28 MAUNDY THURSDAY

6:30 pm FLC Great Hall

March 29 GOOD FRIDAY

6:30 pm Roebuck Chapel

March 31 EASTER SUNDAY

6:30 am Sunrise Service, Hunt’s Park

8:30 am & 11 am Sanctuary

11 am Connexion

Downtown Churches

Lenten Lunches

MAR 4 FUMC • Rev. Tasha Blackburn 

MAR 11 Immaculate Conception • Rev. Chase Green

MAR 18 St. John’s Episcopal • Deacon Greg Pair

Service 12:00 pm  

Lunch 12:30 pm

United Methodist Lenten 

Round Robin Services

MAR 3 Hackett UMC Rev. DeeDee Autry

MAR 10 Faith UMC Rev. Jana Green

MAR 17 Cavanaugh UMC Rev. Donna Ward

MAR 24 Goddard UMC Rev. Latoya Shepherd

Service 5:00 pm 

Fellowship Supper afterwards

FUMC KIDS

The Lenten season is a very busy time in the church. In Children’s Ministry, we have several ways we are continuing to learn and celebrate our Savior. Drama Club practice has been going SO well. We will continue with practices, culminating with a Living Last Supper performance on Maundy Thursday at 6:30pm in the Great Hall. You will surely be blessed by the wonderful job the kids are doing!

Our Wednesday Evening activities have been a hit. We have learned about Haiti, Bolivia, Poland, and China so far. The kids have gotten to taste a snack or treat from each of the countries. It’s been so eye-opening to see what the United Methodist Church is doing in each of these countries. We are wrapping up our series this month, but not before we learn about a few more countries!

On March 24th, the kids will be Waving the Palms in the Sanctuary service. We are going to meet in the Children’s area on the 2nd floor at 10:45 to receive our palms and further instructions. Waving of the Palms if for kids of ALL ages. The kids will need to walk, but parents are always welcome to carry them.

Easter Sunday will be a fun-filled day. We will have some exciting activities from K-5th grade on the 2nd floor in the Children’s area during the Sunday school hour. We will also have fun Easter activities for our Nursery kiddos (Birth-PreK) on the 1st floor in our Nursery during the Sunday School hour. You won’t want to miss out!

OUTREACH

The Guatemala Mission Trip Team made it back safely after a successful week of serving. We were able to provide medical and dental care to 419 patients. We had a great team of doctors, nurses, dentists, medical professionals, and volunteers. Salud Y Paz is the organization we partner with to provide medical care to Guatemala. Salud Y Paz has a clinic and a rotating schedule for other mission teams to provide continued care to the people we have seen. There is a clinic for further care, but many cannot commute to the clinic. Mission teams like ours are vital for continued medical care for many people.

Our team went to four villages in and near Chichicastenango. During one of our breaks, the team visited a family’s home to see how many Guatemala people live. It’s very different than our homes here in the United States. Many homes have dirt floors where you must walk outside to get to another part of the home. Imagine living in these conditions when it rains! Seeing some of the homes made our team thankful for the things we have. Many villages live without electricity, clean water, hot water, food, and sturdy homes. Even with their level of poverty, people are welcoming and loving. On one of our arrivals, we each received a hug from an older lady in the village. She made sure each person received a hug before beginning work. 

On our last day in Chichi, we visited Salud Y Paz the organization we work with. They have a clinic and a preschool for children who may not otherwise receive an education. The students were waiting for us with a Welcome sign and balloons. They were excited to see us, giving us high fives, hugs, and cards. Many children wanted to be held and were saying thank you to the team. The children showed our team love and appreciation. The donations and support given to Salud Y Paz help to provide their education and medical care. These kids will have a better chance of continuing their education once they graduate from preschool. This time at the clinic and preschool was a memorable experience for all. Visit saludypaz.org for more information on contributing to this ministry.

My biggest takeaway from the trip was seeing the slower pace the people of Guatemala live. The translators took extra time caring for patients. We live fast-paced lives here in the United States. After returning, my prayer is that I will remember to slow down and see the opportunities God has given me to serve others. The Guatemala people take the time to love well. Thank you to our team and all the people who helped us raise money, gather supplies, and provide prayer.

WELCOME NEW CHURCH MEMBERS!

Amanda Goldsborough is returning to FUMC, having just moved back to Fort Smith. She is a former member of the choir and a retired teacher. She is also the mother of James Brown of our congregation.

Brandon is our minister to youth and young adults, and transfers (Finally! :) ) from another United Methodist Church.

We will be placing Easter lilies in our worship spaces this year to remember and honor loved ones. After Easter they will be planted on the church campus.

PLEASE MAKE YOUR CONTRIBUTIONS BY NOON ON MARCH 18TH 

Forms are also in the church office. Call the church office with any questions 479.782.5068

A Note From Your Finance Team

Stock & IRA Gifts

We are so grateful for gifts given through IRA’s and Stocks. Often the institution through which you process those gifts is not allowed to share the name of the giver unless expressly directed. Informing the IRA or brokerage firm that you would like your name to be included with the gift would be very helpful. In addition, you might call the church and inform us that such a gift is coming so it can be applied to the rightful donor. Thank you for your help. 

God Bless! -Diane & Jeannine

SAVE the DATES

March 26 Methodist Men Gathering 

April 21 Confirmation Sunday

Wednesdays April 3-24 New Member Class

April 28 Joining Sunday

May 19 Pentecost Picnic and Hymn Sing

After the inclement January weather, Pacesetters’ regulars, as well as new faces, gathered in February for singing, devotional, laughs, fun, food, and fellowship. Pacesetters meet the first and third Friday mornings at 10 am in the Fireside Room of the Family Life Center. Everyone is welcome to attend and bring a friend, stay for lunch.

Kelly Desoto, former children’s director of FUMC, brought supplies and helped us make valentines on February 2. She explained the card ministry Gail Oakes and she lead at our church, sending cards several times each year to church members 80+ years young. Card Class is now meeting on Wednesday evenings at 6:30 in the Aldersgate Room.

February 16, Louise regaled the group with a pictorial travelogue of her recent trip to Portugal and Spain, complete with technological mishaps, group interaction, and humor. Observations determined that she could take the show on the road as a travelogue-stand-up comedy. 

March 1 Dr. Taylor Prewitt, retired Fort Smith doctor and member of FSFUMC, returns to discuss his recent book “Before It Got Complicated” the history of medicine in Fort Smith and the Arkansas River Valley from 1817 (when the fort was established) through 1975, when then President Gerald R. Ford dedicated the Mercy Center Complex.

March 15 Lynn Wasson, editor and owner of the former “eFortSmith,” returns to bring the fascinating history of her present Sixteenth Street residence, located one block north of FUMC Family Life Center and its influential former occupants. One previous owner was Clifton Breckinridge, Congressman as a Representative from Arkansas, a Minister to Russia, and a Commissioner of Indian affairs. Clifton’s father, John C. Breckenridge was Vice-president under James Buchanan. Clifton’s daughter, Mary Breckenridge, became the driving force behind rural health-care in America, as well as the development of nurse midwives. - Louise Finney

Thursday , March 14

@ 12:00 Noon 

Please RSVP by Monday, March 11

rvwidowsgroup@gmail.com

or

479.459.0479

Feel free to bring a Widow Friend!

Topic: How is your Balance?

We will hear from the Clinical Director and Physical Therapist Dr. Alexandra Scallions, of Fyzical.

Did you know that February was National Senior Independence Month? Well we are not too late to catch up. One crucial factor in promoting independence as we age is physical well-being, and that's where the incredible benefits of physical therapy come into play! Alexandra will share with us a range of programs and therapies to evaluate and treat balance disorders.

Menu:

Corned Beef, cabbage, carrots, new potatoes, cornbread and Bread pudding.

Hope to See You Thursday the 14th!

Save the Date

Tuesday, March 5

Wye Daffodil Festival 2024

When: March 5

Time: load church van @ 9:00am

We will meet in the church parking lot (16th & C) 

should be back between 3:00-4:00pm

Where: 22300 Hwy 113, Bigelow AR (Wye)

If inclement weather on March 5 we will try to go on Friday, March 8.

We have 2 spots left on the first van. We do have a second van and a driver if we have enough to sign up. Hurry and sign up!

For more information email Gail Oakes at 

rvwidowsgroup@gmail.com

Or call (479) 479-459-0479 

IN OUR PRAYERS

In St. Vincent’s Hospital:

• Robert Spicer

In Children’s LR Hospital:

• Graham Beauchamp

Loss of Loved One:

• Richard Nicklin - father of Mckenna Sudbrink (Sam).

MEMORIALS:

Jack Gedosh by

Sherri Karber/Norman Wilkinson

Sherron Shuffield

Taylor & Mary Prewitt

Rex & Nancy Cochran

John & Garnet Watts

Jim & Dixie Spears

David & Leanne McClanahan

Ted & Ginger Taylor

Linda Raymond

Gale, Brian, Kelly Hightower & Gina Martin

Richard & Ann Appleton

Ruth Bartlett

Tony & Lynnell Leraris

Ronnie & Lynda McDaniel

Rebekah Circle

Center for Hearing & Balance

Toka Beall by

Bill Beall

Jerry Pruitt by

Richard & Ann Appleton

David Hutcheson by

Karen Hutcheson for River Valley Widow’s Club

Ann Byars by

Ruth Bartlett

David & Leanne McClanahan

Jim Bolin

Richard & Jan Beauchamp

Joe & Carla Byars

John Mays Jewelers

Paul & Suzanne Henson

Clay & Lynn Gilliland

Fred & Camille Johnson

PASTOR ON CALL

M-F 8:30 AM-4:30 PM: (479) 782-5068

Weekends and Evenings: (479) 459-5060

When there is a hospitalization, a death in the family, or any other time you may need urgent pastoral care, we encourage you to use these numbers. The pastors rotate on-call responsibilities to assure that one of them is always accessible. 

FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

200 N. 15th St. Fort Smith, AR 72901

(479) 782-5068 | www.fsfumc.org

Email: fsfumc@fsfumc.org

Office Hours: Monday-Friday 

8:30AM-4:30PM

Closed for lunch 12:30PM-1:30PM