Pastoral Reflections SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 13TH


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September 2015

WESTLAKE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

Pastoral Reflections LISTENING FOR THE VOICE OF GOD The spiritual disciplines of silence and solitude can be extremely meaningful. For each of the past three summers I have spent several days at a retreat center practicing the spiritual disciplines of solitude and silence. These practices involve more than simply not speaking. One needs to be purposeful in listening for the voice of God during their time of solitude and silence. In my opinion, it is meaningful to remember that the words silent and listen contain the same letters. It is in silence that we listen to God. Thomas á Kempis lived from 1379 to 1471. He was a member of a religious community in Holland that cared for the poor known as the Brethren of the Common Life.1 In writing about the practice of silence he stated, “In quiet and silence the faithful soul makes progress, the hidden meanings of the Scriptures become clear…Even as one learns to grow still, he draws closer to the Creator and farther from the hurly-burly of the world.”2 This fall, many of our Christ Care small groups will be studying Sacred Rhythms: Practices that Nourish Your Soul and Transform Your Life by Ruth Haley Barton. During

these sessions, Barton not only provides information about a variety of spiritual disciplines, she also leads the group in practicing each discipline. If you are not currently in a Christ Care group, please contact Ellie Peiffer as this would be an excellent time to join in on these important faith development opportunities (see page 3). As a new school year begins, the pace of our lives often quickens. The roadways are a bit more congested. Our calendars become filled with events and activities, perhaps even to a greater degree than during the active summer months. During this busy time, I invite you to make the conscious decision to not let the things of this world squeeze out your time with God. As our children embrace their Rally Day theme of “Do Something,” consider if God is calling you to the practices of spiritual disciplines. I encourage you to engage daily in prayer, spend time in meditation/contemplation, read Scripture, and enter into a time of silence. May the peace of Jesus Christ be with you always.

Pastor Mollie 1Thomas

á Kempis, “Solitude and Silence,” in Spiritual Classics: Selected Readings On the Twelve Spiritual Disciplines, ed. Richard J. Foster and Emilie Griffin (New York: Harper One, 2000), 148.

2Kempis,

“Solitude and Silence,”150.

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 13TH K-12 meet in Fellowship Hall @ 9:50 a.m. so we can all go to Worship together! *More info about Rally Sunday, events for children and youth, and volunteer opportunities for Christian Ed on page 4. Plus examples of how others choose to “Do Something” and opportunities for you to join them!

PLAN TO HAVE FUN WITH OUR ANNUAL YOUTH-LED RALLY DAY GAMES☺ WESTLAKE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 27650 Center Ridge Road * Westlake, Ohio 44145 * (440) 871-3088 * westlakeumc.org Sunday Worship at 8:15, 10:00 and 11:28 a.m.

THE MESSENGER

Hospitality

COFFEE FELLOWSHIP SPONSORS

COFFEE HOUR SPONSORSHIP

September 6

Sponsorships are available for our weekly coffee hours following Worship on Sundays. If you would be interested in sponsoring coffee hour, please submit an envelope with the sponsorship amount included ($35 per Sunday) at the office prior to the week of the sponsorship or in the collection basket. Checks made payable to WUMC. You can find Sponsorship forms on the table near the coffee at Fellowship Hour and in the lobby—or on page 9 of this newsletter.

Wednesday Evening Women’s ChristCare Group

September 13 Roseann Fekete September 20 Ed & Joan Hammon’s 55th Wedding Anniversary! September 27 Audrey and Dan Walsh

Usher/Greeter Training!

New Member Classes

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 9TH, 7—8:30 P.M

If you are interested in joining with Westlake UMC, the new member process includes three classes that you can complete in any order:

It takes all of us to make our church a warm and friendly place to experience God. Ushers and Greeters are on the front lines of welcoming and with a few tips these roles are meaningful and easy ways to share your gifts and graces with the community. Please join us for this important training session led by Rev. Chris Martin! Questions? Contact Ellie Peiffer via email at [email protected]

 Coffee with the Pastor: Offered the evenings of

September 28th—October 1st. In this session, Pastor Mollie talks about her vision for the church, what it means to be United Methodist, and has a time for questions and answers. Times will be scheduled this week based on your availability!

 Spiritual Gifts Discovery: Sunday, October 11th

Women of Westlake UMC SAVE THE DATE — SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 14TH FOR OUR WOMEN'S ALL DAY RETREAT at The Lake House in Avon Lake Rev. Beth McKee will be our facilitator for a spirit filled day. Look for more information coming soon!

from 1 – 3pm

 Stewardship & Your Money Autobiography:

To be scheduled Please let the office know if you are interested in attending these classes. All are open to members and visitors alike. Please let us know if you need childcare for any of the sessions. For more information or to RSVP, call (440) 871-3088 or send an email to [email protected].

TRUNK or TREAT PLANNING TEAM IS STARTING! If you are interested in being involved in Trunk or Treat (Our hugely successful & very fun community outreach event at Halloween) please contact Ellie Peiffer at [email protected] 2

Want to read more? Go to westlakeumc.org

SEPTEMBER 2015

Bible Study with Pastor Mollie

THURSDAYS, BEGINNING OCTOBER 1ST, 9 - 10:30 A.M.

All are welcome to explore the Gospel according to Luke in this multi-week study based on the Efird Bible Study Series. It will run through December. Gather in Room 205. We’ll keep the coffee warm for you!

ChristCare Group All Church Study: SACRED RHYTHMS RUTH HALEY BARTON GROUPS BEGIN MEETING IN SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER BY

Pastor Mollie is calling the church to be in discernment for what God is calling us to be, both individually and as a church. Sacred Rhythms is a 6-week DVD study that will be done within the context of our ChristCare Groups. Many new groups are forming. This is the time to let us know you are thinking about checking out a small group for a six week trial. There are three ways to indicate your interest:  Via the WUMC website: click the link HERE  Signup on main bulletin board in the church lobby  Contact the office at (440) 871-3088.

Questions? Please contact ChristCare Coordinators, Ellie Peiffer at [email protected] or Don Lefelar at [email protected].

United Methodist Women General Meeting: Potluck!

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 10TH AT 10:30 A.M. Women of our church — you are ALL welcome to this friendly group. Start this new season by enjoying our monthly meetings and making new friends. The business meeting begins at 10:30 and lunch is at 12:00 noon. Usually we bring a sandwich, but this September gathering is a potluck. Please bring a dish to pass — a main dish, salad, or dessert. Instead of the usual guest speaker for a program we will have an informal 1:00 p.m. “Getting to Know Pastor Mollie” get-together. If you do not wish to attend the meeting or potluck, but would care to sit in on our 1:00 get-together, you are very welcome. Please join us!

Save the Date:

UMW Fall Luncheon THURSDAY, OCTOBER 22ND AT 12 NOON Ladies and gentlemen, please save this date: Thursday, October 22nd at 12:00 noon for the annual United Methodist Women's Fall Luncheon. This delicious luncheon is an important mission of WUMW. The program will be "Hats and Fashions through the Centuries". We encourage both men and women, and their friends, to attend. Again, this year, many new books and puzzles will be offered as your take-home gifts. Tickets will be $15.00 and will be sold by UMW members during coffee hours at church in October, or through Shirley Peritch at (440) 934-4542.

Weekday Moms Group

Our Weekday Moms group is in need of volunteers that have a heart for reaching out to mothers of young children... to support them on their parenting journey as they build the families God desires for them. If you could serve as a Mentor Mom, Childcare Volunteer, or on the Leadership Team, please contact Ellie Peiffer at [email protected]

Want to read more? Go to westlakeumc.org

THE MESSENGER

From the Desk of Christian Ed Carol Ryan, [email protected]

UNVEILING OUR 2015-16 THEME

DO SOMETHING! Do all the good you can, By all the means you can, In all the ways you can, In all the places you can, At all the times you can, To all the people you can, As long as ever you can. ~attributed to John Wesley Rachael Aldrich teaches math to teens. She volunteered as our middle school youth group coleader. She coaches cross country kids. She gave swim lessons. Oh yeah, she ran 176 miles across Iowa this summer to raise awareness and research money for MS. God strengthens her. She is not close to 30 years old yet. Emory Crowder delivers community meals to those who cannot attend in person. He works his hands into the garden beds at WUMC. He honors his wife, and remembers their anniversary. He shares HIS love by always serving with a joyful heart. A WWII military service record is a clue that his 30th birthday may have passed us by more than a few yesterdays. Molly McNamara co-led a lemonade stand that has raised over ten thousand dollars for Imagine No Malaria, volunteered along with youth group pals for a week on Chicago’s Southside, helped care for a baby whose mother needed medical attention, and played some softball with her team. This ONE summer provided positive experiences not only for herself but for countless people helped and shown HIS grace. She is too young to drive (and depending on who you ask, to date). Emily Bernosky sings in the choir. She donated her hair to use for wigs needed by pediatric cancer patients. She gives Spike, her Sunday school’s class pet, excellent care during the week. She holds the door open for others. She shares an infectious smile with worshipers every Sunday. She is not waiting to respond to HIS grace until she reaches double digits. Our theme for Christian Education is a reflection of who we are as Methodists. It is not about whom we can

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become but our calling to respond to His Love. It is not just a Sunday thing, a school thing, or even a Sunday School thing. It is THE thing. It is Love.

DO SOMETHING!

Look around WUMC for inspiration, for help, and support. We continue to be ALL IN, and TOGETHER for Christ. And, we are so excited to welcome back our young friends and youth to their untraditionally traditional Sunday programs on September 13th.

RALLY SUNDAY On Sunday, September 13th, we kick-off an exciting new season of fun, learning, and relationship building within our Sunday school program! K-5th will join us for Annual Youth Hosted Games during Sunday school. Grades 6-12 will be hosting games. Planners and preparation crew information is provided by Rachael Haning. See soon-to-arrive postcard, or contact Mrs. Carol Ryan about suggested cotton swag to wear this Sunday, and children should definitely wear closed toes shoes designed for running. We are excited for you to join us as we DO SOMETHING to show our love of Christ!

REGISTRATION Please complete the following registration for all Children and Youth. Registration supports us in making first day name tags, picture boards, mailings, and... ok got us... we are required to annually collect data of emergency information otherwise the sky may fall. Help us. Register now. Click here. Or contact Carol Ryan via the office or [email protected]. Confirmation registration: All young people in Grade 8 and older, who have not previously been confirmed, are invited to enroll in our 2015-16 class. Please use this link to enroll for confirmation. Click here. Or contact Carol Ryan via the office or [email protected].

BRAND NEW First Pew Program: Want to help with hospitality? Thought joining the Chancel Choir would use your talents? Decided nothing would be greater than helping in the preschool class on a Sunday? But WAIT! Did you forget you are a parent? Guessing one just cannot do it all… Let us help! Starting on September 20th, WUMC Nursery staff will provide “first pew” care. Children in kinder – 5th grade, with a volunteering adult, can be dropped off at the first pew (organ side of sanctuary)

Want to read more? Go to westlakeumc.org

SEPTEMBER 2015 at 9:50 a.m. Let our staff keep your child(ren) safe for the start of the worship service and ensure their transition to Sunday School following the Time with Children. For more information, contact Mrs. Carol Ryan via [email protected].

MINI-MISSIONS Over the past two years, Sunday school classes worked on mini-missions. We are expanding our program. Classes will continue to work on their mini-missions but many of these programs will be opened to full family or church participation. These events may be small and the missionaries short but the impact in both the community and their faith journey will be felt! We are kicking off with: Preschool: Our Bee-lievers first mini-mission supports Heifer International buy chickens! Our preschoolers can help you find a good use for loose change in your pocket! K/1: Looking for Goodness Campaign. More information, contact Carol Ryan. We are seeking donation of non-melting candy (no chocolate) and no nuts, and small denomination gift cards. 2nd/3rd Grades: Collaborating participation in the CROP WALK. Save the date, October 3rd at 9:30 a.m. More information, contact Leslie Kubancik. 4th/5th Grades: Seeking to set-up family event working at and for the Cleveland Food Bank. More information, contact Michelle Kollar. 6th/7th Grades: Will match lessons of caring for creation with a service project in the Metroparks. Susan Hunter graciously is organizing.

ALLERGY PROTECTION PLAN Parents of allergy kids know the day your Epi-Pen Jr. Twin-Pak expires, gets tossed out unused is the best money ever wasted! This year, we ask parents of children old enough to snack through preschool to use the allergy stickers provided at sign-in. Additionally, we want your safety selfie. Please email a picture of your child (ren) holding a copy size piece of paper with their allergy (ies). Yes, registration helps. A written listing given to our teachers and leaders does help, but a photo directory will help us beyond the classroom, and keep those Epi-pens headed into “retired expire-ment”.

LITTLE SINGERS & RINGERS Our early childhood music efforts are taking a full

note step forward! Miss Jillian Salis (camp counselor, musician, and fan of tiny humans everywhere) will lead our Bee-lievers class (during the start of Sunday school) in song and dance. Also, she will get the kinders and firsties singing, bell ringing, and joyful during visits near the end of their class period. Together, the Little Singers and Ringers will join in worship to share their music as a group, and as a group combining with our Children’s Choir.

NEW GROUPINGS, NEW HELPERS, AND NEW ROOM ASSIGNMENTS A year ago during a meeting open to Sunday school teachers and parents, we suggested a change in our class groupings was coming if we held or grew our numbers. We are very excited to better support our children and tweens with the following changes. Nursery–Toddlers will continue with their traditional grouping. Infants – 20/24 months will be greeted at the Nursery; and 20/24 month olds through 3 year olds will enjoy a story and a game in Room 203. Ms. Jessica Proctor is joining our silly, compassionate, and protective Nursery Staff! Ms. Jessica is a local preschool teacher, early education major, and a mom. Confirmed in the Berea UMC, we are giddy to tap into Ms. Jessica’s wealth of fun ideas. Watch for some fun changes within the room, and subtle changes to our approach to make this hour one of security and comfort for parents and kiddos. BEE-LIEVERS preschool class in Room 207 is for independent bathroom using friends ready for a preschool structured hour together. We are thrilled to announce Emma Steinman, after five months of shepherding in preschool and teaching summer preschool, will serve as the lead teacher this year. If you wish to shepherd/assist in the preschool room, please contact Mrs. Ryan! Kinders and Firsties join together! Let’s blend children who are starting school with many who’ve “halfday’ed” it. Our curriculum supports a lesser emphasis on writing skills at this level. Kinders benefit from the leadership and advanced silliness of Firsties, and Firsties needn’t start their Sunday by testing out their fine motor skills. Class will begin following worship service’s Time with Children in Room 102-103. Pick children up following conclusion of service. Join us in welcoming Miss Rachael Kaiser (former shepherd to 1st-2nd Grade) and Miss Kaela Ryan (former preschool shepherd) to the K/1 Team!

Want to read more? Go to westlakeumc.org

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THE MESSENGER SPIKE’s Class (also known as 2nd-3rd Grade) will continue as the same crew plus some new friends this year. By blending 2nd with 3rd, those second graders can model their new maturity and third graders can enjoy a more kinetic and playful curriculum. We welcome back Miss Sue Geringer, the Mayers, and of course Spike Lilly Taco Humphrey. Class continues to request parents wait and arrive for pick-up at 11:10 a.m. So grab a coffee, make a new friend, and find us in our new to us Room 105! 4th–5th Grade benefits from aging up a year as we look at mini-mission with many organizations that cutoff at 8 years and under. Class will move over a spot to Room 107 with pick-up at 11:10. Joining Mrs. Janet Hanacek and her jolly band of shepherds is Liam Hamm. Liam will be using his talents for igniting fun as games master for this crew delightfully sandwiched between being “little” and “big”. 6th–7th Grade is a unified land of tweeners. The whole class is now eligible to participate in Youth Group programs and events. Bobbi Kibbey will serve as our primary ring master for this circus of faith formation and fun. Class will be held in Room 100, and conclude at 11:10. Parents wishing to allow their child to be dismissed for the year without a parent signature should submit a waiver available in class or from Mrs. Carol Ryan. Confirmation class is transformed into a one year program supported by Youth Coordinator, Rachael Haning, masterful blending of three curriculums, a retreat, a project, and a few visits to other houses of worship. This is a unique program to learn more about God, Christianity, the Methodist Church, and one’s own personal faith. As the program wraps up in the spring, youth will have the opportunity to profess their faith and, if desired, become full members of the Westlake United Methodist Church. All young people in Grade 8 and older who have not previously been confirmed are invited to enroll in our 2015-16 class. Please click HERE to register. Registered tweenagers and their parent(s) should attend Confirmation Orientation on September 27th at 4:00 p.m. in Fellowship Hall. Confirmation class begins in the Youth Room (205), on October 4th from 10:00 – 11:00 a.m. Young Adult Sunday School, aka The Discussion ‘n Donuts Seminar Course, continues to meet in the

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Youth Room (205) each Sunday morning at 9:00 a.m. High School Freshmen through 20 year olds will continue to select different topics for discussion. Come for the fellowship. Grab a breakfast treat. Share and listen to find ways to connect the Bible to 2015 life.

VOLUNTEERS AND DONATIONS Looking for a rewarding service or volunteer opportunity, please contact Mrs. Carol Ryan. There are ways to serve in the classroom with children, or from home. Our kinder and first grade team’s first mini-mission needs individually wrapped non-melting candy (small candies to be bagged together or full sized) and SMALL denomination gift cards from September to October. Donations may be placed in Carol Ryan’s staff mailbox, dropped off at the office, or given to the class teacher on a Sunday morning (Room 102). Also if a landscaping project left you with golf ball to tennis ball sized rocks, we would gladly use them and such donation may be placed in the Christian Ed Supply Room (101).

CHILDREN’S CHOIR! For children in grades K-6 (Pre-K children upon request) Each Sunday from 11:28-12:00 beginning on Rally Day, September 13th in Room 104 Children in PreK through grade 6 are welcome! We hope you can join us this year making music for the Lord. Mark your calendars... We are going to sing on Sunday, October 4th at the 10:00 worship service! Questions? Contact Annie Kaschube at (216) 862-1232 or [email protected]

Want to read more? Go to westlakeumc.org

SEPTEMBER 2015

… Have you heard?

YOUTH GROUP SCHEDULE (Sundays 5—8 p.m.): September 6th No youth Happy Labor Day! September 13th Regular Youth 5-8

No Class 9/6: There is no Sunday School on September 6th due to Labor Day Weekend.

September 20th No youth (Cedar Point until late the night before)

WSCH 9/12: The Youth will be volunteering at the Westside Community House on September 12th. Multiple jobs and times are available between 12 and 4:30 p.m. You can help set up, clean up, or at the festival itself! Lunch will be provided. Make sure you have signed up with Rachael to join us!

September 27th Regular Youth 5-8

QUESTIONS? Contact Rachael Haning, WUMC Youth Coordinator at [email protected]

Point Fest 9/19: The youth are going to Point Fest at Cedar Point on September 19th. The day will involve roller coasters, and lots of concerts! If you would like to join us, please contact Rachael for pricing information and to hold your spot!

Youth Requests to ALL UP FOR GRABS: Would you like a working ping pong table? It even folds and has all the parts! Only catch is... You need to be able to haul it away. Please contact Rachael Haning if you are interested in bringing the fantastic ping pong table into your house today!

ANYONE HAVE AN EXTRA… Air hockey table is sought to round out our redone youth space. If you have an air hockey table that is not being used, we would love to help brush off the dust and use it with Youth Group! The youth are looking for a Wii system to put into the Youth Room. If you have a Wii that is sitting on shelf being neglected, we would be happy to put it to use! Just let Rachael know! Contact Rachael Haning, WUMC Youth Coordinator at [email protected]

Parish Nurse News Kathy Tafuri, our WUMC Volunteer Parish Nurse, offers free blood pressure screenings most Sundays after coffee hour. Kathy is also available most Wednesday afternoons from 1 to 3 p.m. to address your health concerns, plus offer free blood pressure screenings. You can reach her by calling the church office (440) 871-3088 x17, or reach her by email at: [email protected]. Westlake United Methodist Church is now the proud owner of a brand new AED (Automated Electronic Defibrillator). Our old one had become outdated and so had to be replaced. It is in the same place as before, behind the door of the Parish Nurse’s office, and it has a handy bag attached with other equipment that might be needed in case of emergency. If any one is interested in a CPR/AED class, please let Kathy know, and she will arrange one in the fall.

Do you receive the weekly Friday email reminder? Do you receive this newsletter, The Messenger, via email? If you are not currently on our email distribution lists, please email the church office. Sign up for one or both at [email protected]. We promise no extra junk mail. Also, update emails when you change them, please.

Want to read more? Go to westlakeumc.org

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THE MESSENGER WE ARE LOOKING FOR SPONSORS FOR COFFEE HOURS FOR OCTOBER THROUGH MAY. PLEASE FILL OUT THE FORM BELOW AND DROP AT THE OFFICE OR IN THE OFFERING PLATE ON SUNDAY WITH YOUR SPONSORSHIP DONATION.

Equal Exchange Mission Disbursement of Profits As a part of our Mission outreach, Westlake United Methodist Church sells fair trade coffee, chocolate products and tea, produced by international small farmer coops and marketed by Equal Exchange. During the last two years, profits generated from sales of these products amounted to approximately $1,500. Members of our church, who have purchased these fair trade products, voted to determine which local mission groups would receive these profits.

$35.00 WILL SPONSOR A SUNDAY COFFEE FELLOWSHIP TIME*! Encourage fellowship! Welcome the WUMC Church family by funding a Sunday Coffee Fellowship Time. You don’t have to do anything! All work will be done by the Hospitality Team. Enjoy fellowship with your church family! *Fellowship Time encompasses the entirety of Sunday morning, with coffee and pastries available for all Worship participants.

Unless you request a specific date, we will assign a Sunday that is open on the calendar. Your name will be displayed on table signage and listing in the weekly bulletin. Name: _____________________________________________ (sponsoring individual, family or group) Requested date? (opt.) _____________________________ In celebration or remembrance? _____Yes _____ No ____________________________________________________

**Please leave this form and payment in the collection basket or at the church office**

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The list of the recipients and amounts to be paid are as follows: City Mission ................................................. $ 99 Cleveland Foodbank .................................. $187 Flat Rock....................................................... $407 Nehemiah ..................................................... $198 Ohio Guidestone........................................ $121 Stop Hunger Now ...................................... $154 Westside Community House .................. $231 WESM ........................................................... $132 Thank you for your continued support!

Westlake Prays Every Thursday at 5:45 p.m. at rotating Westlake churches — watch the Sunday bulletin for location (WUMC hosts the 5th Thursday when it occurs). Day after day in the news media, we seem bombarded with an endless parade of events on the world stage that seem over-whelming and tragic. All seem beyond our ability to comprehend and control. Without faith this is a formula for despair and withdrawal. But as people of faith we are invited to join together… to lift our hearts together… for the many needs that confront our existence. While the churches within the city of Westlake are of Christian denomination, we wish to extend an open invitation to all persons of faith and prayer. We will host these times of prayer for as long as there is supportive interest in joining together, to pray together. All are welcome.

Want to read more? Go to westlakeumc.org

SEPTEMBER 2015

Life Events BAPTISM Avery Michelle Luhn, daughter of Amy and Jeff Luhn, was baptized by Rev. Dick Lehto at the 10:00 service on June 28th. . Gabriel Nathan Salem, son of Nader and Amanda Salem, and little brother of Elias, Miles, and Grant, was baptized by Rev. Mollie Brown at the 10:00 service on August 16th. His godparents are Rob Rogers and Kathy Lohn.

I would like to thank the Westlake United Methodist Scholarship Committee for awarding me a college scholarship. This scholarship will be very helpful in continuing my education at Ohio Wesleyan University. I would also like to thank all those who have supported me in navigating the college process. Whether it was writing recommendations, guiding me through the decision making process, or just being there to talk with. I appreciate all the help I have been given by so many people. Thank you again. ~Matthew Wolf

WITH SYMPATHY Alex Massey, husband of Judy Massey, passed away June 30th. Rev. Mollie Brown officiated his memorial service on July 6th at Westlake UMC. Jim Thaler, father of John Thaler, passed away July 1st. Richard Peronne, father of Susan Mitterholzer, passed away July 8th. Nancy Kubancik, mother of Jim Kubancik, passed away July 15th. Wilbur Knapp, friend and long-time supporter of Westlake UMC, passed away July 24th.

Thanks! Dear WUMC Family, It would be great if I was able to mentioned you all by name to thank you individually and to express my gratitude for the Army you created of love and generous support through Alex's battle with ALS and his funeral services. You were all so special to him and you helped us feel so connected with our church family even when we were unable to attend. Alex lived his life with faith, hope, honesty and laughter and you gave him the strength to make the best of each day. Thank you for making our life together so memorable. With love, ~Judy Massey

Got Medicare? ASK PATRICIA…. by Patricia Whited-Stineman, OSHIIP Medicare Counselor (440) 781-1383

Question: What are Medicare Savings Programs? Answer: Medicare Savings Programs (MSPs) are financial assistance programs for people covered by Medicare. MSPs help to pay certain Medicare costs for people with limited incomes. MSPs can help to pay your monthly Part B premium, and possibly deductibles, co-pays and coinsurance depending on your income. Qualified Medicare Beneficiary (QMB) program acts like a free Medicare supplement policy and pays the Medicare Part B premium, all deductibles and coinsurance that Medicare does not pay. This program is subject to income and resource limits Specified Low Income Medicare Beneficiary (SLMB) program has higher eligibility limits than QMB and pays for the Medicare Part B premium. Qualified Individual (QI) program has higher eligibility limits and pays for the Medicare Part B premium. QI benefits are limited and are granted on a first Come first serve basis. The regular Medicaid application will help determine if you are eligible to receive benefits from any of these programs.

Want to read more? Go to westlakeumc.org

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THE MESSENGER The "Did You Know?" communication piece will be a monthly feature in the messenger. It is in response to Focus Group requests for more information about the amazing things that happen at the church. If you are wondering about a ministry or initiative, chances are others are curious too! Please contact the church office and we will include your question and answer in a future "Did You Know" feature.

COMMUNION PREP & BEYOND Communion is offered weekly at the 8:15 a.m. service, and at all three services on the first Sunday of the month. We use cut pieces of bread and grape juice as the elements of communion. That first Sunday of the month, we will have 300+ pieces of communion prepared for those in worship. That take a lot of energy and prep time! For many years, Bob Peritch has baked the loaf of communion bread that is broken as a part of the liturgy in the 10:00 a.m. worship service. Dick and Kay Swartz cut the pieces of bread for all worship services and prepare

the grape juice. Judy McDonald coordinates volunteers who serve communion at the 10:00 worship service. If you would like to be a communion server, please contact Judy McDonald at [email protected]. Given that we invite all to communion who choose to worship, we have started to use gluten-free bread from the locally owned Gluten Free Bakeree at the 8:15 services, and at 11:28. At the 10:00 service, both regular wheat bread and gluten-free bread pieces are available. We are all one at the table of Christ… thanks to the work of many!

Income Statement— July 2015

YTD 2015

July 2015

2014

YTD 2014

YTD Budget

Annual Budget 2015

INCOME CONTRIBUTION INCOME

$31,160.67

$287,616.12

$33,112.28

$316,439.60

$335,247.06

$580,000.00

$31,160.67

$287,616.12

$33,112.28

$316,439.60

$335,247.06

$580,000.00

$24,831.48

$182,575.11

$26,370.42

$177,957.87

$193,222.08

$331,229.22

OFFICE EXP.

461.19

13,386.92

4,743.37

15,455.50

13,591.62

23,300.00

FINANCE TEAM EXP.

118.95

1,501.89

98.74

1,579.67

1,213.31

1,880.00

4,014.75

43,218.23

10,849.71

62,536.47

62,207.94

103,000.00

29,426.37

240,682.15

42,062.24

257,529.51

270,234.95

459,409.22

11.00

833.10

99.93

-705.75

2,391.62

4,100.00

WORSHIP EXP.

408.50

4,202.81

917.45

4,463.28

5,234.81

8,974.00

EDUCATION EXP.

376.04

8,534.52

2,571.25

8,102.57

9,624.93

15,500.00

OUTREACH EXP.

120.03

1,990.94

69.40

4,363.18

4,200.00

7,200.00

5,432.09

43,744.05

6,367.12

42,987.85

38,074.26

65,270.00

6,347.66

59,305.42

10,025.15

59,211.13

59,525.62

101,044.00

35,774.03

299,987.57

52,087.39

316,740.64

329,760.57

560,453.22

-$ 4,613.36

-$12,371.45

-$18,975.11

-$ 301.04

$ 5,486.49

$19,546.78

TOTAL INCOME EXPENSES ADMINISTRATIVE EXP. STAFF PARISH EXP.

FACILITIES EXP. Subtotal Expenses MINISTRY EXPENSE MUSIC EXP.

MISSION EXP. Subtotal Ministry Expense TOTAL EXPENSES EXCESS INCOME/EXPENSES

10

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Want to read more? Go to westlakeumc.org

No Youth Group

27

20 20

7

Youth Group 5—8 p.m.

5:30pm SPRC (107)

No Youth Group

Youth Group 5—8 p.m.

Coffee with the Pastor

30 30

Coffee with the Pastor

Purl Girls (100) Parish Nurse Available

Purl Girls (100) Parish Nurse Available PACE (103) Community Meal

Coffee with the Pastor

5:00 pm Oberlin Choristers (FH) 12pm 1 pm 7:30pm 11:28 Rehearsal

29 29

12pm 1 pm 1:30pm 5:30pm

5:00 pm Oberlin Choristers (FH) 7:30pm 11:28 Rehearsal

7 pm Finance Cmmte (107)

24 24

5:30pm Marijuana Anon (100) 5:45pm Westlake Prays for Peace (St. Lad’s) 7:30pm Choir Rehearsal

17 17

10:30am UMW Gen. Mtg Potluck! (F.H.) 5:30pm Marijuana Anon(100) 5:45pm Westlake Prays for Peace (Prince of Peace) 7:30pm Choir Rehearsal

10

10 am UMW Bd. Mtg (105) 5:30pm Marijuana Anon (100) 5:45pm Westlake Prays for Peace (Unity Sp. Center) 7:30pm Choir Rehearsal

3

Thu

10:30am UMW Outreach (FH) 5:30pm Marijuana Anon (100) 5:45pm Westlake Prays for Peace (Church of the Redeemer) 7:30pm Choir Rehearsal

Rev. Mollie out of the office

All Staff Mtg (107) Purl Girls (100) Parish Nurse Available PACE (103)

Purl Girls (100) Parish Nurse Available PACE (103) Usher/Greeter Train. (Sanct/106-7)

23 23

9:30am 12pm 1 pm 1:30pm

16

12pm 1 pm 1:30pm 7 pm

9

22

28 28

Wed

12pm Purl Girls (100) 1:30pm PACE (103)

2

21

Messenger Deadline

7:30pm 11:28 Rehearsal

15

7:30pm 11:28 Rehearsal

Church Office Closed

14

8

7:30pm 11:28 Rehearsal

1 1

Tue

7

Mon

12:30pm Games ’N Such (FH) 7 pm Stephen Ministry (107) 11:20am Children’s Choir Starts 7 pm Trustees (106)

13

6

Sun

25 25

18

11 11

4

Rehearsal

4 p.m.

Pandrangi Wedding

Fri

26 26

19

Youth to Cedar Point

12—4:30 p.m. Youth to Westside Community

9—10:30 a.m. ChristCare Facilitators Mtg.

12

Pandrangi Wedding 2 p.m.

5

Sat

SEPTEMBER 2015

WESTLAKE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH STAFF Rev. Mollie Brown Annie Kaschube Carol Ryan Ellie Peiffer Gretty Myers Jeanne Halaby Jessica Proctor Jill Farkas Kathy Tafuri Marshall Haning Morgan Lux Patti Barnes Rachael Haning Rich Gallo Sharon Parks Stephanie Fries

Senior Pastor: [email protected] Organist & Director of Children’s Choir Christian Education Associate Small Group & Welcoming Ministries Stephen Ministry Coordinator Childcare Assistant Childcare Assistant Sunday Custodian Volunteer Parish Nurse Director of Music & Adult Choir Childcare Assistant Nursery Coordinator Youth Coordinator 11:28 Service Music Leader Finance Manager Office Manager

WUMC Librarians: Nanci Danburg & Judy McDonald OTHER PASTORS CONNECTED TO THIS CONGREGATION: Rev. Nancy Hull Rev. Ron Dietrich Rev. Diana Guyette

Dr. Richard Parks Rev. Don Lefelar Dr. Richard Lehto

Rev. Bob Remington Rev. Tom Taylor

2015 Leadership: Leadership Council Chair: Tracy Heberle Lay Leader: Tony DiBiasio Recording Secretary: Laurie Marshall At-Large Members: Dina Leader, Harlen Rife Ken Crandall, Barbara Lachowicz, Carol Thaler UM Men Rep: Rod Erskine UM Women Rep: Peggy Lundberg

Finance Committee: Jim Kubancik (chair), Scott Kremer, Len Siwik, Russ Toye, Jamie Ryan, Matt McQuality, Jerry Peiffer

SPRC: Laurie Forbush (chair), John Thaler, Sharon Dixon, Moises Buzon, Amy Surovi, Stephanie McNamara, Alex Combs, Barbara Deeds, Dale Garrett

Trustees: Ron Rennard (chair), Chris Tilton (vicechair) Nic Kinch, Robin Carreon, Peg Lundberg, Gary Linch, Carole Miller, Donn Belzer, Ben Ligas

* M ESSENGER A RTICLES FOR O CTOBER : D UE T UESDAY , S EPTEMBER 15 *

Mailed August 26, 2015 DATED MATERIAL—DO NOT DELAY

Sunday Worship at 8:15 a.m. (Reflective) 10:00 a.m. (Classic) 11:28 a.m. (High Energy) 27650 Center Ridge Road Westlake, Ohio 44145 (440) 871-3088 www.westlakeumc.org [email protected]

WESTLAKE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED