MESSAGE FROM RICKY
Dear Friends,
Much of the work of the church staff goes on "behind the scenes." There's a great group of people who make it possible for the pastors and worship leaders to stand up on Sunday morning and proclaim the good news. Without them, we wouldn't be able to do our work!
One of those often unseen roles is that of Carolyn White, our church bookkeeper. For the past several years she has been a steady hand on the financial workings of our congregation. Everything from managing deposits, paying all the church bills, calculating payroll, and providing timely statements to our Finance Committee. And she does it all with courtesy and professionalism.
And after serving us so well, and providing a steady hand during the most challenging days of the pandemic, Carolyn is stepping down from the church staff, to focus more time on caregiving for her mother and aunt. It's no surprise to us who know Carolyn that she would make the sacrifice necessary to care for her family. That's just the kind of person she is.
While she is irreplaceable as our dear friend, we will begin working immediately to find her successor. Below is a link to the job posting, that our Staff-Parish Committee would love for you to share widely in your networks to all who may be interested in applying.
Please join me in wishing Carolyn all the best as she moves into this new season of life for her family.
Grace and Peace,
Ricky
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MESSAGE FROM KATIE
Hi there,
We're in the middle of a sermon series about grief on Sunday mornings and I find that it's very appropriate for some changes that I'm experiencing in my life and in the lives of those around me. I found out some of my dearest friends are moving out of the state this year, and my first instinct was to be sad. But I found myself telling them that I was happy for them. And it got me thinking; I really was happy to hear about the adventure they are getting to embark on. But I was also very sad, selfishly, because it means I won't get to see them as often as I do now.
And that's the thing about grief, isn't it? We can be happy and sad. No single one emotion has to win out and be our only emotion that we experience. I can be happy for them and the opportunity they have while also being extremely disappointed about how things will change. In fact, I think Ricky even mentioned this past Sunday that this is normal in the grieving process.
This week I am giving myself the freedom and grace to feel ALL of my emotions; gone are the days where I have to pick and choose what to feel. And that freedom is available for you as well. You may be experiencing something in your life right now that grieves you deeply, while also looking at your growing grandchildren who bring you so much joy. And that's okay. We're allowed to feel the full gambit of our emotional range. I hope you give yourself the grace to feel your feelings this week.
See you Sunday,
Katie
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God Moment
Submitted by Tommy Steadman,
Music Ministry Director
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Sometimes life is all about being flexible and being able to change courses at a moment's notice. We experienced just a little of that this past Sunday morning. The choir was scheduled to sing a fairly demanding anthem which required most of us being there. For a variety of very good reasons, that just didn't happen, so we pulled out an easy anthem, called "Carry Me Home" and sang it instead. But it really turned out to be a God moment, as the anthem that we sang was so much more appropriate for our choir and congregation members who had just learned of the passing of a beloved church member.
While our hearts here are filled with sadness, there is also much rejoicing in heaven today. So, when things go awry, look for the hand of God...He's there even when we aren't able to see Him. And please remember to pray for the Mardis family and for anyone in your circle of friends who has experienced loss.
Have a blessed week and I'll see you all in worship on Sunday!
In His Service,
Tommy
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MUSIC MINISTRY
WEDNESDAY NIGHT OPTIONS
Children’s Handbells 4:15 PM Sanctuary
Adult Handbell Choir 6 PM Sanctuary
Adult (Sanctuary) Choir 7 PM Sanctuary
Orchestra 7 PM Sanctuary
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WEDNESDAY NIGHT FELLOWSHIP DINNER |
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FEBRUARY 23 MENU
Chicken Tenders, Mac & Cheese, Lima Beans, Dinner Roll
MARCH 2 MENU
Hamburgers, French Fries, Baked Beans, Fixings
MARCH 9 MENU
Red Beans and Rice, Sausage, Garlic Toast, Side Salad
WEEKLY OPTIONS:
Salad Bar, Potato Bar, or Pizza
NOTE: ALL MEAL OPTIONS ARE SERVED WITH DESSERT
Adult Meal - $6.00
Child's Meal - $3.00
Adult Salad Bar - $6.00
Child's Salad Bar - $3.00
Potato Bar - $3.00
Pizza - $1.50 Per Slice
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The Weekday 3's and 4's had their Trike-a-Thon last week.
They had so much fun learning about safety!
A special thanks to our church staff and officer Kelly for helping out!
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VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL / Save the Date June 6-10
We think it’s possible for kids and volunteers to create a ripple effect that can impact the world around them in ways they will never forget. God dropped you onto this planet to do the same thing — to make waves.
You’re designed to make positive change in the world. And the kids who will show up for our Vacation Bible School this summer need to believe that about themselves, too. Do you want to make waves with us? Become a VBS volunteer today! Call or Email Nikki and Lauren if you are interested in helping this summer.
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OPPORTUNITY FOR SERVICE IN KIDS MINISTRY
Safe Sanctuaries is an overt expression in making congregations safe places where children, youth, and elders may experience the abiding love of God and fellowship within the community of faith. Safe Sanctuary is the United Methodist Church’s policy designed to protect kids and adults from unsafe situations.
We have an opportunity for anyone seeking to assist in Kids Ministry to become a Safe Sanctuary Volunteer. This opportunity involves providing support for the Sunday School Class leader, help with any activities and work with the kids. Ideally, this person would not be related to the Sunday School Leader.
Time Involved: 45 minutes-1 hour during Sunday School
Please contact Lauren Beckmann if you would be interested in assisting with Kids Ministry as a Safe Sanctuary Volunteer. Click on button to contact Lauren.
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WEDNESDAY NIGHT HANGZ & SUNDAY GATHERING SCHEDULE
Wednesday Hangz - hang with Katie in the gym after Wednesday Fellowship Dinner, 6-7p
Sunday School - in youth room 10-10:55 AM
Sunday Open Gym - 4:30-5:30
United Night Supper + Worship + Groups - 5:30-7:30
NOTE: No Sunday School on 3/6 -- we will have a youth table at the ministry fair and will have students working the table. We will also be encouraging our students to walk around the ministry fair and look at the many ways THEY can serve in the church. God can use everyone in the church!
PRAYER BREAKFAST MARCH 22 SAVE THE DATE
Pop up prayer breakfast is back on March 22nd from 7-7:50 AM.
We are catering Chick-Fil-A at the church and asking for a $5.00 donation to help cover the cost of the chicken minis and hashbrowns! Save the date!
FRIENDOLOGY
This month at United Night we are digging into Friendology - how we are called to have authentic Godly friendships in a world full of superficial relationships.
BIG STUF REGISTRATION
Big Stuf registration is continuing - don't wait, or the spots will be filled! We are going to the great sandy beach of Panama City Beach on June 20-24th. Go ahead and mark your calendars now! Here's the link to register: https://firstmethodistclinton.org/bigstuf22/
STAY CONNECTED
If you would like to be added to the monthly newsletter, please email Katie and let her know.
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COLLEGE & CAREER MINISTRY |
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This Spring, our college and college-aged students will be digging in to the Gospels on Wednesday nights looking at Jesus’ encounters with others like us at a table. We will also be setting up some time for fun (hello murder mystery party).
We have plans to join with the University of Southern Mississippi Wesley Foundation for a spring retreat on
April 1-2. For more information contact Erin.
SAVE THE DATE FOR SPRING RETREAT APRIL 1-2
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40 DAY LENTEN JOURNEY
On Wednesday, March 2nd, we as the Church will enter into the season of Lent. One way that we can grow together in discipleship this Lenten season is by doing a study with one another. The church office is offering up a daily devotional; in Everything Can Change in Forty Days, Jean Watson encourages us to stop trying to create change and simply live a lifestyle of worship, allowing God to work in us and through us. If you feel discouraged or stuck, perhaps now is the time to set aside forty days to renew your faith and believe that, with Christ, everything can change! A copy of the devotional can be picked up in the church office starting on February 16th; we are asking for a $5.00 donation to cover half of the cost of the devotional, but if pricing is an issue, do not let that stop you from grabbing a copy! The devotionals will also be available on Wednesdays in the FLB during fellowship dinner. Simply find Katie and get your copy!
DISCIPLESHIP OPTIONS
Check out the Wednesday Night guide with all of the small group offerings going on this semester - including studies that happen on days other than Wednesday! This booklet also lists Sunday school options. Click on the link below to download the guide.
Mens Fellowship Coffee First Monday of each month at 9:00am in the College Hut. this group is led by Charles Pope.
Join Rev. Dave Steveline every Friday at 9:00am in the Education Building
Fellowship Parlor.
Get moving each Friday at 10:00am with Cynthia Street in the Worship Center in the Fitness & Fun Class!
Cultivate Ministry for young adults from ages 22 to late 30's are invited to dig into the Word of God within an intentional community on Sundays at 10:00am in Room 204 in the Family Life Building. This class is led by John and Marti May.
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After talking with some of the other women, we’ve decided to pivot this semester with our Bible study group. Instead of doing a weekly study together, we are going to have a women’s lunch bunch every month! We’ve already had some other women show interest in doing this. We are super excited!
Our first ladies’ lunch bunch will be on March 7th at Picantes at 11:30 AM. Please help us spread the word as we bring all of the women together to fellowship!
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The Methodist Men's Education Grant is awarded to persons affiliated with First United Methodist Church of Clinton and attending a college or university. Recipients are selected based on both financial need and a demonstrated academic ability to succeed in the chosen field of study.
Please contact Dianne Alford at 601-924-6671 for more information. You can download the application for the Education Grant by simply clicking on the button below or stop by the church office to pick one up. Your completed application may be submitted to Dianne Alford. EMAIL: Dianne@firstmethodistclinton.org.
The scholarship submission deadline is May 31, 2022. The scholarship will be awarded during worship service in August.
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UPCOMING SPECIAL EVENT
• SPIRITUAL GROWTH RETREAT
MARCH 18-19
LOCATION: Camp Wesley Pines Gallman, MS
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MARION LYONS CIRCLE
February 28
The Marion Lyons Circle meets the last Monday of the month at 5:45pm in the
Sanctuary Parlor.
The circle's focus will be on Prayer & Self-Denial. Beth Woods and Kathy Nye will be the hostesses.
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LENTEN LUNCHES
HOSTESS SCHEDULE
TUESDAYS AT NOON WORSHIP CENTER
The lunches will be brown bag with the UMW Circles providing drinks and dessert.
March 8 Grace Circle
March 15 Naomi Circle
March 22 Grace Circle
March 29 Naomi Circle
April 5 Grace Circle
April 12 Naomi Circle
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GARAGE SALE ANNOUNCEMENT
Submitted by Mike Norcom, Mission Chair
Some of you have been inquiring if Missions will have a garage sale this year. The answer is "It's up to you!" It takes many people to conduct a garage sale. Are you willing to help make it happen? Many people are needed during the actual sale; however, a small number are needed to help price and pack donated items into the shipping containers. This is a critical and important first step.
If you are interested in helping, please contact Patty Fyke (601 720 5426) or Mike Norcom (601 924 4666) or the church office (601 924 6671). We need your help.
Thank you,
Mike Norcom, Mission Chair
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SCOUTING SUNDAY
On Sunday, March 6 during the 9 AM Traditions Worship Service, we will observe Scouting Ministries Sunday. We will hear from the leaders of our Boy Scout and Cub Scout units we sponsor, and celebrate the impact scouting makes in the lives of young people.
We encourage all members of Scouts BSA, Girl Scouts, or Trail Life USA to wear their uniforms to church that day, regardless of which unit they belong to. We will also recognize all who have earned their Eagle Scout Rank, Gold Award, or Freedom Award.
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LENTEN SERVICES & ACTIVITIES |
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Ash Wednesday March 2
Come and Go
7:00 AM to 8:00 AM
12:00 NOON to 1:00 PM
Service of Worship
6:00 PM Sanctuary
Lenten Lunches
Tuesdays at Noon in Worship Center
Guest speakers will reflect on the Last Words of Christ.
Brown Bag with UMW Circles providing drinks and desserts.
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March 8
Rev. Mike Williams
Methodist Children’s Home
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March 15
Rev. Chris Cumbest
Wells United Methodist
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March 22
Rev. Pamela Cameron
Spring Ridge United Methodist
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March 29
Rev. Dr. Joey Shelton
Millsaps College
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April 5
Rev. John Branning Mississippi Methodist Foundation
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April 12
Rev. Dr. Bob Rambo
Christ United Methodist
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SHARE YOUR REQUEST
If you have a prayer request or if you, or someone you know, has a need complete a short request form (click on button). These requests will be reviewed by our Pastoral team.
Please review the prayer list download. If you would like to add to the prayer list please continue to use our digital form for submission which can be accessed by clicking on the link in this email or on our website.
Prayer Request Update: If you have requested a loved one or friend to be placed on the church wide prayer list, and they no longer are needing prayers, please call the church office or email info@firstmethodistclinton.org for removal. The people who are on the Church Prayer Request are added by the request of church members.
Pastoral Care Line 601-460-0570
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February 2022
Weekly Giving Need: $22,608
February 6 Giving: $45,058
February 13 Giving: $13,035
February 20 Giving: $9,768
Other Income: $8,290
Total Income: $76,151
2022 Year to Date through January
YTD Giving: $95,802
YTD Other Income: $8,139
YTD Total Income: $103,941
YTD Expenses: $98,932
YTD Surplus: $5,008
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Attendance Report
February 20
Traditions: 140
Connections: 71
Online: 202
TOTAL WORSHIP: 413
Sunday School: 148
Youth United Night: 28
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FEBRUARY SERMON SERIES
Good Grief
Experiencing loss is one of the hardest things people face. Whether it’s the loss of a loved one, the loss of a job, the loss of a dream you once had; the result can be a time of extended grief. Sometimes as Christians we may be tempted to think that we shouldn’t grieve. Or at least, it should be brief. But over the next four weeks we’ll look together at God’s teaching in scripture that helps us to understand that grieving can be good for our soul. Good Grief brings healing. Guided by scripture and the work the work of Kenneth C. Haugk, the founder of Stephen Ministries, we will face our grief and embrace the healing that comes from Jesus.
Feb. 6- “A Time to Grieve”- Psalm 6:2-3
All loss is personal and unique. Therefore, there is no “one way” to grieve. What does unite all of us is the need to allow ourselves the time to grieve. We sometimes ask, “how long?” How long will we feel this way? How long until the pain leaves? The psalmist joins in our cry, asking God, “how long, O Lord?”
Feb. 13- “Journeying Through Grief”- Psalm 23
Grief is a journey. As we walk through the days, months, and years after a loss we realize all the little things that are now different. Birthdays, Christmas, even going to church without them, all feels different. We so often pray for a return to normal, but experiencing the difference is part of the journey.
Feb. 20- “Finding Hope and Healing” – Isaiah 54:10
The grief never goes away, but the intensity of the pain will change. There is hope and healing on the other side of loss. And the good news is that there are practices we can do to point our souls to the source of the healing. Other have walked this journey before and have left signposts to guide our way.
Feb. 27- “Rebuilding and Remembering”- Jeremiah 31:13
Memories can often bring back a flood of emotions. We may want to forget, so as to shield ourselves from the pain. But in God’s own time, the memories can begin to bring peace rather than pain. The wound of a loss can heal, even through it leaves a scar. And one day we can look on the scar and remember with gratitude the healing that God brought.
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Missed last week? You can catch up online! |
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The Voice is our weekly update for the latest announcements, ministry
activities and event information at First United Methodist Church.
Want to know more about us? Head on over to our website or Facebook page.
If you missed last week's sermon, you can catch up
by visiting our sermon archives. See You on Sunday!
We are so glad that you are interested in the ministry of First Methodist Clinton!
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PASTORAL CARE INFORMATION
If you have an emergency need or need to speak
with a pastor please feel free to call.
Pastoral Care Number: 601-460-0570
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Submitting information for The Voice:
All content submitted is subject to approval and editing. Thank you for your cooperation!
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