The Fourth Sunday of Easter
April 21, 2013 8:30, 9:45 & 11:00 a.m.
Athens First United Methodist Church
Welcome We are glad that you are here! Thank you for worshipping with us today. We hope your experience at this church brings you blessings. We’d love to get to know you, so please come to fellowship time in Hancock Hall. Join us there for coffee, donuts and conversation beginning at 9:30 every Sunday morning! Can’t find what you’re looking for? Our ushers and greeters are happy to help you find your way!
Worship
We ask that your cell phones be turned off or switched to silent and that you refrain from using flash photography during worship. Each Sunday, the 11:00 service is broadcast on WRFC 960 AM, and the 9:45 and 11:00 services are streamed live at athensfirstumc.org/webcast.
Nursery Availability
For infants through four-year-olds Sundays | 8:15 a.m. - 12:15 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Wednesdays | 4:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Children’s Church
For children in kindergarten through second grade Wonder of Worship (W.O.W.), or Children’s Church, follows the Children’s Message during 11:00 Worship all Sundays except for Communion Sundays. Worship activity bags (age appropriate for all preschool and elementary children) are available every Sunday in the narthex and by the south entrance of the sanctuary.
Website
Please visit our website, athensfirstumc.org, for information about our ministries, to register for events, to give online, to view our church wide calendar, and to listen to sermons from our sermon archive. We encourage you to sign up for our newsletter that is emailed weekly by contacting
[email protected].
Church Office Hours
Monday through Friday | 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. If you need assistance, please call 706-543-1442. We are happy to help you!
Our Ministers and Program Directors
Chuck Hodges, Senior Minister |
[email protected] | 706-206-5529 Martha Aenchbacher, Minister of Program |
[email protected] | 678-230-9708 John Page, Minister of Discipleship |
[email protected] Eric Fessler, Minister of Families with Youth |
[email protected] Robin Stewart, Director of Children's Ministry |
[email protected] Stephen Mitchell, Director of Music |
[email protected] Carol Reeves, Director of Children’s Music |
[email protected] Janis Maxwell, Director of Youth Music and Organist |
[email protected] Rusty Wood, Director of Recreation |
[email protected]
The Worship of God
on the
Fourth Sunday of Easter
Gathering The Prelude
Jones
Prelude on “Immortal, Invisible, God Only Wise”
The Welcome and Parish Notes
8:30 & 9:45 Led by John Page 11:00 Eric Fessler
The Choral Call to Worship 9:45 & 11:00 “The Strife is O’er, the Battle Done” Sung by the Sanctuary Choir
Praise & Thanksgiving *The Processional Hymn 463 “Lord, Speak to Me”
*The Affirmation of Faith
This is the good news which we have received, in which we stand, and by which we are saved: Christ died for our sins, was buried, was raised on the third day, and appeared first to the women, then to Peter and the Twelve, and then to many faithful witnesses. We believe Jesus is the
*The Gloria Patri
CANONBURY Christ, the Anointed One of God, the firstborn of all creation, the firstborn from the dead, in whom all things hold together, in whom the fullness of God was pleased to dwell by the power of the Spirit. Christ is the head of the body, the church, and by the blood of the cross reconciles all things to God. Amen.
Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Ghost; as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen. Amen.
*Please stand as you are able. The congregation speaks or sings the text in bold type.
*The Passing of the Peace The Sacrament of Baptism
Led by Chuck Hodges
9:45 Jack Gilmore Gottschalk Son of Ashley and Matt Gottschalk Gil, Gil, God claims you, God helps you, protects you, and loves you too. We this day do all agree a child of God you’ll always be. Gil, Gil, God claims you, God helps you, protects you, and loves you too.
11:00 Charlotte June Adair Daughter of Melissa and Joel Adair Charlotte, Charlotte, God claims you, God helps you, protects you, and loves you too. We this day do all agree a child of God you’ll always be. Charlotte, Charlotte, God claims you, God helps you, protects you, and loves you too.
The Welcoming of New Members
11:00
The Prayers of the People and the Lord’s Prayer 8:30 Led by Eric Fessler
9:45 & 11:00 Led by Martha Aenchbacher Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day, our daily bread, and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil, for thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory, forever. Amen.
The Anthem
9:45 & 11:00 “A Jubilant Rondo” Rung by the Alleluia Ringers
The Children’s Message 8:30 & 11:00
At the 11:00 service, children in kindergarten through second grade will go to W.O.W in the Caravans room on the third floor. Parents are to pick up children from Caravans at the end of the service.
Proclamation of the Word The Offering *Please stand as you are able. The congregation speaks or sings the text in bold type.
Dobrinski
The Offertory Anthem
8:30 “Nothing Can Separate Us”
Caldwell
What can we say so marvelous as this If God is for us, who can be against us? If he did not spare Jesus Christ but for us, he laid down his life What can we ask for that he wouldn’t give? Where could we go that he would not follow near? Nothing in all creation can separate us from the love of God Not angels, not demons, not life or death Not fears, not worries, not height or depth Nothing in all creation can separate us from the love of God Nothing, no nothing, no nothing can separate us from the love of God What can we do with a love so great as this But respond with utter selflessness? In a world that knows such hopelessness Who will be the light of faithfulness? Who will the truth of the gospel tidings bear to the ones of the bottom of despair? Nothing in all creation can separate us from the love of God
9:45 & 11:00 “Before the Throne of God”
Sung by the Sanctuary Choir with Rachael Fischer, violin; Josh Holritz, violin; Megan Peyton, viola; David Peyton, cello; Emory Daniel, bass This anthem has been placed in the choir library to the Glory of God and in honor of Johnnie, Charles, and Win Blair by Camille Blair Before the throne of God above, I have a strong and perfect plea, a great high Priest whose Name is Love, who ever lives and pleads for me. My name is graven on His hands, my name is written on His heart; know that while in Heaven He stands no tongue can bid me thence depart. When Satan tempts me to despair and tells me of the guilt within, upward I look and see Him there, Who made an end of all my sin. Because the sinless Savior died, my sinful soul is counted free; For God the Just, is satisfied to look on Him and pardon me. Behold Him there the risen Lamb, my perfect spotless righteousness, the great unchangeable I AM, the King of glory and of grace! One with Himself I cannot die. My soul is purchased by His blood; My life is hid with Christ on high, with Christ my Savior and my God!
Forrest
*The Doxology
Praise God, from whom all blessings flow; praise God, all creatures here below Alleluia! Alleluia! Praise God, the source of all our gifts! Praise Jesus Christ, whose power uplifts! Praise the Spirit, Holy Spirit! Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia!
*The Scripture Reading 1 Corinthians 3:18
There is no room for self-delusion. Any one of you who thinks he is wise by worldly standards must learn to be a fool in order to be really wise.
The Message
Chuck Hodges
“Learning to be a Fool”
The Sacrament of Holy Communion 8:30
Refer to page 9 of the Hymnal
The Receiving of the Bread and Wine 8:30
At First Methodist, all are invited to commune at Christ’s table. If you need to be served in your pew, please call this to the attention of an usher. Note that all communion elements are gluten free.
Sending Forth *The Hymn 438
“Forth in Thy Name, O Lord”
DUKE STREET
*The Blessing *The Response
“Depart in Peace”
Depart in peace, and may God’s grace sustain and bless you day by day. Depart in joy and may His truth support and guide you in His way.
*The Postlude
Recessional on “Hail Thee, Festival Day”
Burkhardt
The flowers on the altar are given to the glory of God and in loving memory of Ora and Harold Morris by their children.
Sermon Notes
April Ushers 8:30 a.m. Jim Belger, Ann Brown, Paul Brown, Larry Deal, Hugh Larkey, Mack Lowery, Jim Lyons, Candler Meadors, Olan Moore, Bob Noble, Grace Rabek, Ken Reece, Keith Wilson 9:45 a.m. Chris Bostdorff, Tom Cooper, David and Jane Disney, Mark Ellison, Mark Firth, Tom Hedges, Dan Lasseter, Jim Lyons, Dave Matthews, Sharon Milton, Tom Milton, Al Rogers, Bill Trigleth 11:00 a.m. Nat Belger, Henry Folsom, Henry Garrard, Charles Grimes, Al Hawley, Tom Henson, Jim Lyons, Bo Sorrells
Attendance Sunday School...................................... 468 Total Worship .................................1,483 8:30 a.m.....................................................184 9:45 a.m.....................................................537 11:00 a.m..................................................762 Online............................................................70
Greeters Brad Bowling, Susanne & Woody Chastain, Beth & Gib Johnston, Sharon Sellars, Abby Woodard & Ben Butler
First Light Acolytes 8:30 Annabelle Woodard & Anna Marian Block 9:45 Hayden Hudson, Raleigh Lumpkin & Jacob Hudson 11:00 Sara Catherine & Pennell Reagan Grace
Financial Report Budget for 2013 $2,431,217 Amount Given YTD $806,189 Goal for April $195,124 Amount after 1 Sunday $65,100 Current Debt Balance $1,065,997 Total Debt Reduction YTD $48,114
Offering Stewards Bob Booth and Charlie Grimes, co-chairman; Jim Lyons, Nat Carmack, Henry Garrard, Nathan King, Al Hawley, Sean Rogers, Charlie Upchurch III
Nursery Helpers 8-14 months: Jennifer & Michael Broun 14-20 months: Rachel & Kevin Florence 24-36 months: HELP NEEDED 2 Year Olds: Cameron & Patrick Garrard 3 Year Olds: Jill & Dax Weekley 4 Year Olds: Tonya & Jonathan Woody
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Benefitting
Seatings
OCONEE STREET UNITED METHODIST CHURCH AND OUR DAILY BREAD
10:45 a.m. & 12:00 p.m.
Location
ADULTS $10 &
HANCOCK HALL
Cost CHILDREN $5
Donate Saturday’s Projects: Donate items ahead for sack lunches Indoor Cleaning and hygiene kits.
Bigger Vision Homeless Shelter Sparrow’s Serve Nest Mission Church Discipleship Center Serve on Saturday morning through a variety of family-friendly projects. Children’s Ministries AFUMC
Celebrate Visit our tables this morning Celebrate on Sunday by attending or register online the Brunch & Basket Auction which
athensfirstumc.org/gdos supports local missions.
Visit our tables this morning or register online athensfirstumc.org/gdos
HONOR
BOS ON Blood Drive Sunday, April 21 from 8 a.m.–1 p.m. in the gym
Volunteers are needed to serve and give blood! Register online to donate. Walk-up appointments are welcome on Sunday, April 21. Contact: Geoffrey Hill |
[email protected]
STEP RIGHT UP TO
GREATEST SHOW ON EARTH
2013 Children’s Choirs Spring Musical
Today at 4:00 p.m. Hancock Hall
Announcements Baptism
Reed Elizabeth Taylor received the Sacrament of Baptism on April 14 in our sanctuary. She is the daughter of Elizabeth and Clay Taylor.
New Arrivals
Congratulations to Carlie and Matt Gassney on the birth of their son, Michael Lane, on April 11. Michael is the grandson of Mary Lynn Lane. Congratulations to Wendy and Ben Allen on the birth of their son, Benjamin Heyward Allen IV, on March 29. He is the grandson of Sandy Hanson and Lucy and Buddy Allen. Congratulations to Lucy and Jim Gillis on the birth of their son, James Lester Gillis V, on April 9. He is the grandson of Lucy and Buddy Allen.
New Members
2013 Confirmation Class: Hatton Abernathy, Charles Clarke, Andrew Caldwell, Tom Goggin, Anabel Griffith, Daniel Harper, Jr., Reagan Hatch, Madison Holland, Riley Holland, Gracie Irvin, Barrett Jones, John Knight, Jr., Georgia Ann Laster, Joseph Mahoney, Matthew Marvel, Jr., Hallie McCollum, Barrett McLanahan Greer Moseley, John Curtis Pruett, Grant Rogers, Anna Sennowitz, George Smith, Abigail Springer, A.J. Waller, Jr., Tommy Warner, III, Evan Williams, and Kate Williams
Prayers for Oconee Street United Methodist Church
On Monday night the main building of Oconee Street United Methodist Church caught fire and was severely damaged. Our thoughts and prayers are with the members of Oconee Street United Methodist Church. We will be receiving a special offering today at all three services to support them in this time of crisis.
Periodicals in the Church Library
You will find a number of periodicals in the church library. Some of the titles are Response (UMW), World Outlook (UM missions), Christianity Today, Christian Century, Alive Now!, Weavings, Reflections, and First Things. Periodicals can be borrowed without being checked out. Do take advantage of these excellent resources for Sunday School classes, small groups and your own enrichment. Contact: Cindy Kuhlman |
[email protected]
“On the Other Side of Poplar Pond”
Anjanette Walschauser, former member of our church’s youth group (A. J. Martin then), now living in Texas, has written a book for children about adoption. “On the Other Side of Poplar Pond” employs friendly animal families to teach life lessons with a Christian viewpoint. As a mother of three (two adopted) and wife of a minister, Anjanette connects with parents and teachers regarding adoption as a loving and enriching experience. The illustrations by Paul Miller are thoughtful and appealing. Our church library has two copies of this unique new book.
Barbecue Chicken Fundraiser | Today
Don’t forget to pick up your barbecue chicken boxed lunches today between 11:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. in the kitchen! There will be a limited number of boxes available for walk-ups if you forgot to order a ticket in advance. Many thanks from Boy Scout Troop 1 for your support and generosity! Contact: Joe Wyrick |
[email protected] | 706-206-2142
Parenting with Purpose Panel Discussion | April 28
Your entire family is invited to an evening out at our church on Sunday, April 28, from 5-7 p.m. Parents, you’re invited to a panel discussion featuring Chuck Hodges, Monica Stewart, Linsey and Johnny Jarrett, and Gaile and Pat Allen. For children birth to age 4 nursery care will be provided. Children K5 to 5 grade have special activities in the elementary wing before going as a group to the gym. Light snacks provided for adults, pizza for children. Hosted by the VBS Leadership Team. R.S.V.P. online by April 22. Attendees have the option to submit questions for the panel. Contact: Stacey Richardson |
[email protected] Robin Stewart |
[email protected]
Great Day of Service | May 4
Help us make this the greatest day of service yet! Donate items ahead for sack lunches and hygiene kits. Serve on Saturday morning through a variety of family-friendly projects. Celebrate on Sunday by attending the Brunch & Basket Auction which supports local missions. Stop by the library or the front of the Sanctuary this Sunday to learn how you can be a part of the Great Day of Service (GDOS). More information is available online, athensfirstumc.org/gdos. Contact: John Page |
[email protected] | 706-543-1442
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Great Day of Service Celebration Brunch & Basket Auction | May 5
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Join us in Hancock Hall on Sunday, May 5, for a church-wide brunch benefitting Oconee Street UMC and Our Daily Bread. There will be 10:45 a.m. and 12:00 p.m. seatings as well a silent basket auction. Your attendance is considered participation in Great Day Of Service! Purchase tickets online: athensfirstumc.org/ registration. To donate a basket or other auction items contact Tracie Hedges. Contact: Tracie Hedges |
[email protected]
Senior Sunday | May 12
Senior Sunday for the class of 2013 will be May 12. Please drop by Hancock Hall between 9:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. to support the members of our graduating class! Seniors will also be recognized during the 11:00 a.m. worship service. Parents, if you have a senior who would like to participate in Senior Sunday, please contact Erika Bates. Contact: Erika Bates |
[email protected] | 706-543-1442
Music, Art, Rhythm, and Strumming | June 4-6
Save the date for Music & Arts Week 2013 June 4, 5, & 6 (Tues., Wed., Thurs.) 9 a.m.–3 p.m. Children who have completed grades 1–5 are invited to participate! Registration is going on now. Contact: Carol Reeves |
[email protected] | 706-543-1442 x: 213
Mission: Epworth | July 14-18
Mission: Epworth is our annual mission trip for middle school students grades 6-8. This trip is designed to introduce middle schoolers to missions and provide opportunities for them to begin learning and developing important skills that will serve them as they grow and mature. See more online at athensfirstumc.org/epworth-2013. Contact: Erika Bates |
[email protected] | 706-543-1442
BigStuf | Register by May 5
BigStuf is an exciting five-day summer camp in Panama City, Florida, for students grades 6-12. The camp takes place July 24-28. Campers will enjoy morning and evening large-group worship and teaching sessions, featuring a variety of talented speakers and the dynamic BigStuf Band. If you are interested, please contact Erika Bates. See more online at athensfirstumc.org/bigstuf2013. Contact: Erika Bates |
[email protected] | 706-543-1442
This Week at Athens First For a detailed calendar see our website, athensfirstumc.org/calendar.
Sunday, April 21 Acts 9:36-43 8:00 a.m. 8:30 a.m. 9:45 a.m. 11:00 a.m.
Blood Drive Worship Service (Sanctuary) Preschool Nursery and Sunday School Worship Service (Sanctuary) Sunday School Classes Newcomer Orientation Session (Hancock Hall) Worship Service (Sanctuary) Children’s Church (Caravans) Troop 1 Chicken BBQ Fundraiser (Kitchen) 12:05 p.m. SALT Meeting (Room 120) 12:15 p.m. Bridges College Ministry (Hancock Hall) 3:00 p.m. Cub Scout Pack 1 (Saye Scout Hut) 3:45 p.m. WYC Leadership Meeting (Music Suite) 4:00 p.m. Alleluia Ringers (Room 165) Children’s Choir Spring Program “The Greatest Show on Earth“ (Hancock Hall) 5:00 p.m. Disciple One Bible Study (Room 252) Carillon Ringers (Room 165) 5:15 p.m. Wesleyan Youth Choir Rehearsal (Room 163) 5:45 p.m. Encounter | Student Ministries (Youth Area)
Monday, April 22 Ezekiel 37:15-28 1:15 p.m. 5:30 p.m. 6:00 p.m. 6:30 p.m.
Monday Bible Study Group (Room 221 & 253) Staff Parish Relations Committee Meeting (Hull Dining Room) Athens Ath-Elite Fitness (Gym) Volley Performance (Gym)
Tuesday, April 23 Ezekiel 45:1-9 5:30 a.m. 7:00 a.m. 11:00 a.m. 5:30 p.m. 7:00 p.m.
Fashion Fitness (Gym) Men’s Bible Study (Hull Dining Hall) CBS Leadership (Rooms 252 and 256) UMW Circle 4 Meeting (Hull Dining Room) Boy Scouts Troop 1 (Saye Scout Hut) Fashion Fitness (Youth Area)
Wednesday, April 24 Jeremiah 50:17-20 7:30 a.m. Student Ministries Chick-fil-A Breakfast (Beechwood Chick-fil-A) 9:30 a.m. Wednesday Morning Bible Study (Hull Dining Room) 3:00 p.m. Fun Gym (Gym) 4:30 p.m. Children’s Lyric Choir and Celebrate Chimes (Music Suite) Prayer Shawl Ministry (Room 221) 4:45 p.m. Early Book Group (Room 261) 5:15 p.m. Cherub, Sonshine, and Joy Choirs (Preschool Area) Celebrate Choir and Lyric Chimes (Music Suite) 5:30 p.m. Disciple One (Room 252) Connect Ministry Small Group 4 (Room 362) 6:00 p.m. Engage | Student Ministries (Downtown Dinner) Connect Ministry Small Group 2 (Room 119) Athens Ath-Elite Fitness (Gym) Men's Study: Twelve Ordinary Men (Room 258) 6:15 p.m. Sanctuary Choir Rehearsal (Room 163) Connect Ministry Small Group 3 (Room 257) 6:30 p.m. Acts Video Group (Room 253) Connect Ministry Small Group 3 (Room 257) Disciple Two (Room 254 & 256) Classic City Volleyball Clinics (Gym) 8:00 p.m. Chamber Ensemble Rehearsal (Room 163)
Thursday, April 25 Ezekiel 11:1-25 5:30 a.m. Fashion Fitness (Gym) 9:30 a.m. Community Bible Study 12:30 p.m. Senior Fun Luncheon (Hancock Hall) 5:00 p.m. Souper Supper (Hancock Hall) 6:00 p.m. Athens Ath-Elite Fitness (Gym) Spring League Volleyball (Gym) 7:00 p.m. Fashion Fitness (Youth Area) 8:30 p.m. Adult Softball Game (Bishop Park)
Friday, April 26 Ezekiel 20:39-44 5:00 p.m.
5 Grade Big Dog Retreat (Camp Glisson)
Saturday, April 27 Ezekiel 28:25-26 9:00 a.m. 11:30 a.m.
5 Grade BIG DOG Retreat (Camp Glisson) Mobile Food Pantry (Sanctuary) Youth Soccer (Clarke Central HS) UMW Circle 5 Meeting (Hull Dining Hall)
Worship Bulletin (614-280) Published weekly, August-May (except Christmas), and every other week, June-July by:
Athens First United Methodist Church 327 N. Lumpkin Street Athens, GA 30601-2743 Telephone | 706-543-1442 Fax | 706-546-4797 Website | athensfirstumc.org
Postmaster Send address changes to: Worship Bulletin (614-280) AFUMC P.O. Box 1109 Athens, GA 30603-1109
Periodicals Postage Paid at Athens, GA
Vol. LV No. 41
