Thursday, April 16, 2009

Mark's Remarks 4/19/09

Continue to keep in your prayers and in your minds those who are recently removed from
employment. The list continues to grow…a little. The list of unemployed includes some of the most intelligent, industrious and fine-looking individuals that I know. Any time you hear of possible employment, please call the church office with specifics. We’ll send it on to Bill or Darin or whoever is most able to receive the information. This really does work! We are seeing individuals go back to work and feeling good about the whole process.

If you have been struggling for any reason during the economy and need to drop the amount of your pledge for the church, we truly understand and even encourage you to do just that! Please leave a message, concerning this, for Wendy at the church office, 781-4554 X106. We do use this information for planning purposes and you help us greatly with your communication. Conversely, if you have been greatly blessed and if you feel God has had a hand on you and you wish to raise your pledge, we would probably entertain that also!

National Day of Prayer 4/19/09

National Day of Prayer, Thursday ~ May 7, 2009

Prayer Vigil 6 am-8 pm in sanctuary

Sign up in narthex or foyer for a 30-minute time slot. Prayer prompts will be available.
Contact Lora Wiles for details.

Faithworks 4/19/09

April 3, LUMC Faithworks built a ramp for a woman, confined to a wheelchair, that just turned 100 years old. She resides with her sister and caretaker who is 98 years young. They were both very appreciative of the volunteers who helped , which included Bill Moorefield, Glenn Miller, Kevin Fisher and Jim Gleason.

April 6, the Faithworks team helped clean out a church member’s home. Those who helped were Bill Davidson, Dusty Rhodes, Glenn Miller, Bill Moorefield and Kevin Fisher.

April 7th and 9th, Faithworks built another ramp for a woman in North Kansas City. She has trouble getting up and down stairs due to knee problems. Volunteers were Jay Thomason, Bill Moorefield, Jim Gleason, Kevin Fisher, Bill Davidson and Glenn Miller.

Adult Ministries 4/19/09

Prayer Ministry Updates:

Firm Foundation Prayer Ministry now meets on Mondays at 6:15pm in the Study Center Garage Prayer Room. Come anytime to pray for concerns of the church or to join others in prayer for a specific personal request. Contact Lora Wiles for more information.
The church distributes prayer requests via both email and telephone prayer chains. If you’d like to receive prayer requests through the prayer chain, contact Rev. Scott Beard at Scott.Beard@lumcmo.org.

Cancer Support Prayer team is in need of additional team members. Contact Kathleen Bird, khbird@kc.rr.com for more information.

A Healing Service will occur in conjunction with the April meeting of the Cancer Prayer Team on April 28 at 7 pm in the Study Center Garage Prayer Room. Anyone is welcome to attend.

Prayers and Squares Quilt Ministry meets the 2nd and 3rd Monday of each month at 6:30 in the Study Center. Contact Mary Robinson, basket.mary@sbcglobal.net, for more information.

Looking Ahead…

May 2, 2009
Missions Auction ~ Each family is asked to provide an item for the auction. Each small group is asked to provide a theme basket for the basket auction. Leave your items on the tables outside the worship spaces or in the church office.

May 16, 2009
LUMC Golf Tournament ~ Hole sponsors are needed, and teams are now registering. Contact Jim Jenkinson for more information; 781-7309 or tjenkinson@kc.rr.com

Need a Small Group Connection
Now That Lent is Over?

Maintaining the discipline of small group involvement is important. The following studies are available for you to begin:

A study of Corinthians began Tuesday, April 14, at 6:45 in room 224. Adults of all ages will enjoy this study led by Bonnie Endicott. This is a great group for those interested in a structured, easy-to-follow Bible study.

Faith Lessons: Bible Stories for Adults meets Wednesdays at 6 pm in Study Center 3. DVD teachings bring Bible stories to life by adding historical insight and modern significance. No homework or advance registration required. Tony and Julie Bavuso facilitate.

Promise Keepers Men’s group begins a no-homework, Tommy Nelson DVD study of Romans Tuesday, May 5, at 6:00 am in the Study Center.

Journey Small Group for young couples will begin the popular study When God’s People Pray April 19 at 9:45 in Ark 2.

Would you be interested in new a small group for couples or parents? Names are now being gathered so that we can meet the need for these specific focus groups. Contact Lora Wiles.


Promise Keepers Men’s Group Breakfast and Open House

Tuesday, April 28 6 am in the Study Center.

Meet the men from Promise Keepers and preview their next Tommy Nelson study of Romans which begins Tuesday, May 5.

Questions: Contact Jim Jenkinson at 781-7309

LUMY 4/19/09

· Senior Sunday! Senior Sunday will be the weekend of graduation this year. That is
Sunday, May 24th. On this Sunday we will print a bulletin listing our seniors with photographs and additional information. Please be aware that we have sent out letters to all families of seniors whose information we have. If you have not received a letter, please assume that we do not have your information on file and you must contact us regarding your senior! Thanks!

Most of you are well aware, we are going back to BigStuf Camp in Panama City Beach, FL, this summer. This year we are leaving the evening of Tuesday, June 16th,, and arriving back sometime on Monday, June 22nd. We have a few spots that have opened up for the trip. If you want to go let us know ASAP. The cost is $500. Let us know if you are interested!
We are having a camp meeting! May 3rd. 5:15-5:45! This meeting is mandatory for anyone going on the trip; at least one member of your family must be present. If your family will be out of town, please contact Sarah and she will get you the information that you need. During this meeting you will be getting lots of information and filling out forms. Please bring your insurance information.

MAY 3rd. Summer Parent Meeting.
6:00-6:30, before LUMY

Children's Ministries 4/19/09

The Children’s Sunday School lesson for April 19, 2009, is called “Breakfast on the Beach.” It comes from John 21:1-14. After the resurrection, Jesus met the disciples on the beach and they ate breakfast together. The disciples were so happy to see him again.


The Children’s Stewardship Lessons today comes from John 21: 17b. Peter said, "Lord, you know all things; you know that I love you." Jesus said, "Feed my sheep.” The children will discuss how their offering money helps “Feed the sheep.”


Have you seen the tulips by the library door? Take a good look and enjoy the beauty! “HIS Kids” Team 23 planted the bulbs last fall. What a fun surprise watching them come up and bloom. God’s miracle through the gift of life is an awesome thing to witness!


Thank you to the Children’s Sunday School
Committee, our pastors, and Andrew & Sarah Beard for helping with the Children’s Good Friday Worship Service. We appreciate all you did to make it
meaningful for the children and families.




You can register your child for Vacation Bible School at www.lumcmo.org

Music Notes 4/19/09

Joseph Martin,
pianist & composer
Saturday, April 25 - 2009
TICKETS AVAILABLE NOW
Adults: $12 Seniors: $10 Student/Child: 6

Call the church for tickets: 816-781-4554 ext. 119

WORSHIP THROUGH THE ARTS CONCERT SERIES

Joseph Martin will also be with us in our 8:30 and 11:00 am worship services on Sunday, April 26, as the Chancel Choir will feature several of his choral anthems throughout the worship service. Joseph has published over 800 anthems, mainly for church choirs and many for schools. We will also be blessed as he plays the piano in worship. Come and enjoy one of the leading Christian composers and performers in our country today.

Hospitality Help Needed 4/19/09

Radical Hospitality

Our church is working to develop Radical Hospitality to greet and welcome new members into our church and congregation. In addition, we are restructuring our Heart Teams to support the needs of our growing congregation. To greet/welcome and support the needs of the congregation, we need PEOPLE. People who can greet from 8:00-9:30 or 9:30-11:00 on a Sunday morning. We also need people who can cook, visit, call, write a note, etc. If you feel you can give 1 to 2 hours of your time, please fill out the interest form available at the front desk of the church or in the notebooks in the pews. If you have any questions, please call Elizabeth Easley at 781-8668. As Rev. Mark Turnbough stated in a recent VIEW, "One of Jesus's major themes was love in ACTION, Love one another, as I have loved you. Let's put a whole new face on our kindness, our affections, our motivations and our actions."

LUMC Nursery 4/19/09

LUMC Nursery is seeking adult volunteers to come and PLAY!

During the week, the LUMC Nursery provides childcare for children under 12 while parents attend meetings, small groups, and other activities. The nursery is also open every Sunday morning for children under 5.

Our wonderful volunteer staff supports this ministry AND helps the church budget! Volunteer hours are available during the week, on weeknights, and all day on Sunday.

If you are interested in volunteering some time to come and play with us, please call the nursery at ext 112, and leave us a message!

Wednesday Night Supper Help Wanted 4/19/09

Wednesday Night Supper Cooking Teams Forming for 2009/2010
The WNS Team is looking for a few more good folks for cooking teams. We currently have enough for two complete teams and would like to form two more teams for 4 folks so that a team would only have to prepare one meal a month. If you are interested, please contact the church office for more information, 816.781.4554.

Counters Needed 4/19/09

Counters Needed!

Has God given you the gift of numerical accuracy? If so, LUMC could really use your talent! We need several great people to add to our list who can help count each week's offering. Qualified candidates will need to be available on Monday mornings/early afternoons and be accurate with computer data entry and numbers. If interested, please contact Wendy Coffey, Bookkeeper, at 781-4554 ext. 106 or e-mail wendy.coffey@lumcmo.org

Senior Branson Trip 4/19/09

Senior Branson Trip

Join the seniors of LUMC June 25-26, 2009,
in Branson, MO. Only 36 spots available.
Payment due at time of reservation.
Highlights include Osceola Cheese Factory, 110th Annual Nat’l. Packard Convention, Twelve Irish Tenors, IMAX Crossties Bluegrass & Gospel, Shoji Tobuchi Show.
Call the church office to reserve your spot now!

Garden of Eatin' 4/19/09

Garden of Eatin’
The Garden of Eatin’ is looking for a shopkeeper on Sunday mornings. Duties would include: getting the produce from the refrigerators and stocking the “shelves,” counting money and weeding out rotten produce. This is a no-hands-in-the dirt job! We need someone for both upstairs and downstairs.
Call or email Kelly Minette.
781.2936 or tkminette@kc.rr.com

United Methodist Men Golf Tounament 4-19-09

Liberty United Methodist Men’s Golf Tournament
May 16, 2009, 8 AM.
The tournament is open to women and men of all ages, and you do not need to be a member of the church to attend. Proceeds from the UMM Golf Tournament will provide financial support for various church ministries, the Emergency Pastor’s Fund, Freedom House, Soup Kitchen, assist students with seminary scholarships and help with various maintenance projects at the church. To raise money we are looking for hole sponsors and for items to be donated for goodie bags, or any items that can be raffled off. We are asking for $100.00 to sponsor a hole. The hole sponsor will have their business advertised on a sign at the hole they sponsor. The hole sponsor or anyone donating items will be able to put business cards in the goodie bags that will be given out and will be announced at the beginning of the tournament and lunch following the tournament.
Any questions, contact Jim Jenkinson 781-7309

Thursday, April 9, 2009

Mark's Remarks 4/12/09

The cover story for the current issue of Newsweek is entitled, The End of Christian America. In the new Newsweek Poll, fewer people now think of the United States as a "Christian nation" than did so when George W. Bush was president (62 percent in 2009 versus 69 percent in 2008). Two-thirds of the public (68 percent) now say religion is "losing influence" in American society, while just 19 percent say religion's influence is on the rise. The proportion of Americans who think religion "can answer all or most of today's problems" is now at a historic low of 48 percent. During the Bush 43 and Clinton years, that figure never dropped below 58 percent. These thoughts are not exclusive to Newsweek. President Obama, speaking in Turkey, declared that we are not a Christian, Muslim or Jewish nation, rather we are a nation of citizens. He’s right there, although for those of us who grew up thinking we are a Christian nation, this thought makes our oatmeal a little sour.
The article in Newsweek went further to say: “Let's be clear: while the percentage of Christians may be shrinking, rumors of the death of Christianity are greatly exaggerated. Being less Christian does not necessarily mean that America is post-Christian.”
As Methodist Christians, we must be clear. We’re not in the business of brutalizing other religions, we’re not in the business of making the government an arm of the church, or vice versa. For example, the columnist Cal Thomas came to see the Moral Majority or Christian American movement as flawed in theological terms. He put it so well, "No country can be truly 'Christian,’ only people can. God is above all nations, and, in fact, Isaiah says that 'All nations are to him a drop in the bucket and less than nothing.” We were going through organizing like-minded people to 'return' America to a time of greater morality. Of course, this was to be done through politicians who had a difficult time imposing morality on themselves!"
Here at LUMC we seem to be doing well. The number of first-time visitors is great and these folk are giving Christ a “hearing” every Sunday. When LUMC completes the construction of more space and lays out more parking at the new site, we’ll be able to reach and accommodate an increased number of the area for Christ. That is and always has been our goal, when we reach the country and the world for Jesus.

Mission Auction News 4/12/09

21

Days Until the Annual Missions Auction: 21

Entry Fee: NADA – NOTHING – ZERO PESOS

Dinner: $20 Family, $8 Adults, $6 Kids (tickets available at church office)

Number of Items to Bid on: BILLIONS

Amount of fun watching your friends outbidding each other: PRICELESS

You will kick yourself if you miss this one!

MAY 2, 2009 – Registration 4 pm – Dinner 4:30-6pm
Silent Auction starts at 4:00 – Live auction starts at 7:00

If you would like to donate a basket or item, call the church – AND – you will be eligible to
play a game at the auction. Hmmm – curious now, aren’t you?

Your hands will be in the air bidding so you will have to PUT THE BABY DOWN!
Call 781-4554 ext. 112 for a babysitting reservation

Children's Ministries 4/12/09

Today there is Sunday School only for Preschool and Nursery Children. They will learn about the resurrection from Luke 24:1-12. They’ll learn that Jesus is ALIVE and that God brings new life to us!

In today’s Children’s Stewardship Lesson the children will discuss why we worship Jesus! Today is a wonderful day of celebration and our response to him is worship and praise. Part of worship is giving our offerings and our time back to him.

The Nursery Committee and Cradle Roll will be hosting an Easter Egg Hunt, circle time, and appropriate Easter crafts in the nursery today for all children 2 and under while you attend worship.

The Mother/Son Dirt Date is this coming Friday, April 17th from 6:30 to 8:30. This event is for boys age 4 through 5th grade and their moms. (If mom can’t come, please come with grandmother, an aunt, or other
special lady.)
If members of the congregation would like to help with the event, we are looking for table/room hosts (women who don’t have young sons), and donations of:
Gummy worms
Whipped cream
Sandwich-sized Ziplock baggies
Oreo cookies
If you are interested, please e-mail Sondra Buell (address above) and let her know how you can help. Thank you!

Vacation Bible School is July 13-17. You can register you child on-line at www.lumcmo.org

Adult Ministries 4/12/09

Easter Morning ~
A Time for Celebration!

The mood of reflection and repentance of Lent has passed, and this morning we celebrate our risen Lord. Some have “given up” things for Lent. Consider carefully whether those are things you really want to add back to your lives. Some have “taken on” new spiritual disciplines, e.g., prayer or Bible study. Consider carefully whether those are things you can afford to stop now that Lent has passed.

“It is written, ‘Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that proceeds out of the mouth of God.’ “

Deuteronomy 8:3, Matthew 4:4

Looking Ahead…

May 2, 2009
Missions Auction ~ Each family is asked to provide an item for the auction. Each small group is asked to provide a theme basket for the basket auction. Leave your items on the tables outside the worship spaces or in the church office.

May 16, 2009
LUMC Golf Tournament ~ Hole sponsors are needed, and teams are now registering. Contact Jim Jenkinson for more information; 781-7309 or tjenkinson@kc.rr.com

Lenten Small Group Prayer Study Was a Success


Approximately 300 people signed up to participate in our Lenten small group study of When God’s People Pray. Our gratitude goes out to the people who made time in their schedules to fellowship and study together. This special Lenten study does not happen without the commitment of a number of people. Special thanks are due to the following individuals who served as hosts or facilitators for small groups:

Arlin Renfrow
Ruth Tucker
Fritz Mutti
Maggie Brewer
Edie Ryken
Judy Rychlewski
Brad & Justine Cornell
Andrew Beard
Ken & Donna Dunn
Straud Brewer
Brian & Melody Sommers
Everett & Elizabeth Easley
Wendi Jensen
Brian & Nancy McCleery
Lora Wiles
Heather Hall
Pat Deitrick
Celeste Fields
Bonnie Endicott
Mark & Barb Turnbough
David & Laura Evans
Ken & Sharron Bowen
Tony & Julie Bavuso
Steve & Mary Hunt
Mark Morris
Carolyn Cupp

LUMY 4/12/09

LOCK OUT!
$35.00 April 17-18
9:00 pm - 8:00 am
Don’t miss out on the fun!
Call or e-mail to sign up!

All LUMY gets SERIOUSLY RIDICULOUS on April 19th.
Be there! Meet in the FLC from 6:30-8:30!
6th-12th-graders!

Child Protection Training Class 4/12/09

Child Protection Training Class Planned

Tuesday, April 28, 2009 at 7pm
Contact Everett Easley at 781.4554 X 107

Counters Needed 4/12/09

Counters Needed!

Has God given you the gift of numerical accuracy? If so, LUMC could really use your talent! We need several great people to add to our list who can help count each week's offering. Qualified candidates will need to be available on Monday mornings/early afternoons and be accurate with computer data entry and numbers. If interested, please contact Wendy Coffey, Bookkeeper, at 781-4554 ext. 106 or e-mail wendy.coffey@lumcmo.org

Senior Trips 4/12/09

Senior Trips
Hoe Down, April 18th ~ Leave 2:30pm
Vaile Mansion tour, Lone Jack Civil War Museum, Kamey’s Place for dinner,
Big Creek Country Show
$28/person ~ Call Amy 781-4554

Join the seniors of LUMC June 25-26, 2009, in Branson, MO. Only 36 spots available.
Payment due at time of reservation.
Highlights include Osceola Cheese Factory, 110th Annual Nat’l. Packard Convention, Twelve Irish Tenors, IMAX Crossties Bluegrass & Gospel, Shoji Tobuchi Show.
Call the church office to reserve your spot now!

Garden of Eatin' 4/15/09

Garden of Eatin’
The Garden of Eatin’ is looking for a shopkeeper on Sunday mornings. Duties would include: getting the produce from the refrigerators and stocking the “shelves,” counting money and weeding out rotten produce. This is a no-hands-in-the dirt job! We need someone for both upstairs and downstairs.
Call or email Kelly Minette.
781.2936 or tkminette@kc.rr.com

MOPS Cookbook 4/12/09

Coming soon: The NEW LUMC Cookbook brought to you by MOPS! To reserve your copy, please contact Amy Steinbeck at amy.steinbeck@lumcmo.org or stop by the church office Tues.-Thurs. before noon. They are only $12 each: please make checks payable to MOPS.

UMW News 4/12/09

UMW Fellowship Meetings for April

Sunset ~ April 14 at 7pm ~ Study Center
Joyful ~ April 16 at 1pm ~ Joy Chapman’s home
Spice of Life ~ April 21 at 9:30am ~ Study Center

Wednesday Night Supper Help Needed 4/12/09

Wednesday Night Supper Cooking Teams Forming for 2009/2010
The WNS Team is looking for a few more good folks for cooking teams. We currently have enough for two complete teams and would like to form two more teams for 4 folks so that a team would only have to prepare one meal a month. If you are interested, please contact the church office for more information, 816.781.4554.

LUMC Nursery 4/12/09

LUMC Nursery is seeking adult
volunteers to come and PLAY!

During the week, the LUMC Nursery provides childcare for children under 12 while parents attend meetings, small groups, and other activities. The nursery is also open every Sunday morning for children under 5.

Our wonderful volunteer staff supports this ministry AND helps the church budget! Volunteer hours are available during the week, on weeknights, and all day on Sunday.

If you are interested in volunteering some time to come and play with us, please call the nursery at ext 112, and leave us a message!

UMM Golf Tournament 4/12/09

Liberty United Methodist Men’s Golf Tournament
May 16, 2009, 8 AM.
The tournament is open to women and men of all ages, and you do not need to be a member of the church to attend. Proceeds from the UMM Golf Tournament will provide financial support for various church ministries, the Emergency Pastor’s Fund, Freedom House, Soup Kitchen, assist students with seminary scholarships and help with various maintenance projects at the church. To raise money we are looking for hole sponsors and for items to be donated for goodie bags, or any items that can be raffled off. We are asking for $100.00 to sponsor a hole. The hole sponsor will have their business advertised on a sign at the hole they sponsor. The hole sponsor or anyone donating items will be able to put business cards in the goodie bags that will be given out and will be announced at the beginning of the tournament and lunch following the tournament.
Any questions, contact Jim Jenkinson 781-7309

Friday, March 27, 2009

Mark's Remarks 3/29/09

Our scripture this morning addresses one of Jesus’ major themes, love in action. We see it all the time around here, if you know where to look. Love in action is sometimes embodied by the simplest of compassionate responses.This true story of a Presbyterian miracle, found on an Ecunet Bulletin Board, tells of a pastor coming back to church one Sunday after the death of his wife.He came to the early service to change the pattern he and Nancy had established of attending at 11. He thought there'd be people there he knew, to sit with, but he misjudged and came 15 minutes early. He sat alone in the center of a pew, two empty pews behind him and three in front, a brave, sad, solitary man.But then "the miracle" happened. "Bob and Nita Garrett slid out of their pew, six rows behind, and quietly moved down the aisle to slip in beside him. Two Presbyterians had left their pew to move down closer to the front."A true "Presbyterian miracle" had taken place. We Methodists are no different. And to us all, Jesus after washing disciples’ feet, a very servantlike act, said, “I give you a new command, love one another.” He didn’t stop with that. We could interpret that a lot of different ways. But Jesus added the descriptor, “Love one another, as I have loved you.” That puts a whole new face on our kindness, our affections, our motivations and actions. We might even have to change where we sit!

* * * *

Children’s Mercy last week honored one of its finest, Terry Buford, 30 years of healing children’s illnesses and hearts.

Good Friday Choir Cantata 3/29/09

GOOD FRIDAY CHANCEL CHOIR CANTATA
The Weeping Tree
Friday, April 10, 2009 - 7:30 pm
Witness the passion and sorrow that Christ endured on the Cross through His crucifixion and gift of grace for us. “Outside the city wall stands the weeping tree. In silence she lifts her weary arms against the darkened sky. She is a gathering place for the sorrowful and a sanctuary for the grieving. She who was cut and fashioned by hatred and violence became a tree of life for the world. Her arms are outstretched still.”
Come and encounter our own weeping tree, taken from our church courtyard after our beautiful birch tree died from an Easter ice storm in 2007. Three crosses have been made from her and will be used in this very emotional and spiritual choral presentation.

WITHOUT HIS CROSS, THERE IS NO CROWN

Adult Ministries 3/29/09

Does Prayer Make a Difference in the Lives of People?

We believe it does because of the comments like these that we receive:

“I have been so uplifted by your continuing prayers.”

“I can never tell you how much your continuing support means to me. It always brings tears to my eyes and touches my heart when I think of the fabulous prayer team...You all are truly Angels here on Earth.”

“The power of prayer has blessed me with positive results.”


“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and petition with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace that transcends all understanding will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.”
Philippians 4:6-7

Looking Ahead…
April 3, Friday
~ Seasoned Citizens’ Luncheon and Fellowship; 11:45 in the Family Life Center
April 9, Maundy Thursday
~ Family Passover Supper; 6:30 pm in the Family Life Center
April 10, Good Friday
~ Children’s Worship, 3:00 in Family Life Center
~ Chancel Choir Cantata, The Weeping Tree, 7:30 in the sanctuary.
April 25, Saturday
~ Joseph Martin Worship Through the Arts Concert, 7 pm
April 28, Tuesday
~Healing Service, Cancer Prayer Team; 7 pm in Study Center Garage


LUMC Offers Multiple Prayer Ministries

Prayer Chain (email and telephone versions) are a way to get prompt notification of prayer needs that have been received by the church. Members of the prayer chain are urged to pause for a moment of prayer on behalf of the situation mentioned whenever a prayer chain announcement is delivered. In doing so, you’ll join more than 250 people who simultaneously receive word of a new request. To join the prayer chain, contact Rev. Scott Beard.

Prayers and Squares Quilt Ministry provides those in need with a tangible expression of our belief in the power of prayer to comfort, strengthen and heal. Quilts are made, and each knot tied by a member of the congregation carries with it a prayer on behalf of the quilt’s recipient. Stop to tie a knot and offer a prayer the next time you see a quilt hanging outside the worship space. Prayers and Squares meets to quilt on the second and third Monday of each month at 6:30 pm in the Study Center. Contact Mary Robinson or the church office for more information.

Cancer Prayer Team provides a vital source of prayer and support for those battling cancer. Prayer team members pray daily for specific individuals. They also gather monthly on the last Tuesday of the month to pray together with and for individuals with cancer. You can help this prayer team in a number of ways: by serving as a prayer partner, performing clerical duties, making follow-up phone calls, etc… A quarterly Healing Service is also conducted the last Tuesday of January, April, July, and October. Contact Kathleen Bird for more information.

Firm Foundations Prayer Ministry meets weekly to pray for requests received through the prayer chain and for the ministries and missions of LUMC. The prayer team is always open to additional members. Contact Lora Wiles for more information.

What other prayer ministries would you support? A group for parents praying for their children? A regular worship and prayer service? Contact Lora Wiles to share your ideas for new prayer ministries or to offer your
support to an existing group.

LUMY 3/29/09

College Connect—During finals week, we got together as a church and sent our college students $5.00 gift cards from different establishments to say good luck. Well, it is almost finals time again, and we would like to say good luck and show our support of all their hard work! If you, your family, your Sunday School class would like to purchase $5.00 gift cards, we would love to have your help! You can drop them off in the black box outside of the youth office or in the front office. Thanks for your help!

Summer Intern—LUMY is hiring college students for summer internships. If you have finished your freshman year of college and are under 24 years old and are interested, please contact Sarah Beard.

Don’t miss the wrap-up! 6th-7th grades will meet at 5:30 and 8-12th will meet at 6:30...then look out, next week we are celebrating!

Mission Trip- Each summer LUMY does mission work both locally and around the country. This summer we are planning on traveling back to New Orleans to continue cleanup. This trip is for students that have completed 8th grade-graduated seniors. The tentative dates are Sunday, May 31st-Saturday, June 6th. Please let us know ASAP if you are interested. We need to have a good idea if you want to go by Palm Sunday, April 5th. This does not lock you in, but if we don’t have some interest, we will not move forward with this trip. This will be our only youth mission “trip” this summer due to camp, Faithworks, VBS, the college mission trip...and the current economic status of our country. The current tentative cost for this mission trip is $250. This amount is pending on participation, any fundraisers, the mission auction, and gas prices. Let us know if you have any questions.

Most of you are well aware, we are going back to BigStuf Camp in Panama City Beach, FL, this summer. It is amazing. This year we are leaving sometime on Tuesday, June 16th, and arriving back sometime on Monday, June 22nd. We have a few spots that have opened up for the trip. If you want to go, let us know ASAP. The cost is $500. Let us know if you are interested!

Children's Ministries 3/29/09

The I Live Big Sunday School lesson for March 29 is about Peter. The lesson comes from Mark 14:26-31, 66-72. It can also be found in the gospel of John 21:15-17. Peter makes a big mistake. However, the children will learn that Jesus loved Peter, and loves us, even when we make a mistake by not being faithful. Ask your child about the rooster. Do you know anyone who has a rooster collection?

The children’s Stewardship lesson today comes from John 15:17: “This is my command: Love each other.” Jesus gave his life because he loved us! We are to share his love with those around us.

The Mother/Son Dirt Date is coming soon and excitement is rising: April 17th from 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm for boys age 4 through 5th grade. It will be held in the Family Life Center. Please preregister by calling Sondra Buell at the numbers above, or send her an e-mail.

This morning we are honoring and treating our children’s Sunday School teachers to a Teacher Appreciation Breakfast. Thank you, teachers, for giving of your time and efforts to teach the children. It’s a big and important job to help with the spiritual training of children. We sincerely thank you!
We also want to thank all the substitutes who are in the classrooms so the
teachers can attend the training and breakfast this morning.
A BIG thanks goes to the Children’s Sunday School Committee for all their hard work and for hosting this event for the teachers – Eric Thon, Maia Foust, Dalynn Hayakawa, Annie Herring, Stacy Holtzclaw, Jen Huyser, Michel Kaiser, Ingrid McDonald, Beth Rieger and Amy Steinbeck.

Congratulations to Tyler Cornell for memorizing the books of the Bible! Thanks to the 2nd-and 3rd-grade teachers for encouraging their students to meet this awesome goal!


Do our Methodist Church Camps operate under the Safe Sanctuaries Policy?
· Yes!
The Safe Sanctuaries Policy is approved by the Annual Conference and implemented by our Board of Trustees. The purpose is to make each camping experience a safe place for all of God’s children to come and enjoy the presence of God. The policy provides for training and background screening of all camping staff (paid or volunteer) and provides for a maximum camper to counselor ratio of 5 to 1.

Liberty UMM Easter Breakfast 3/29/09

UMM Easter Breakfast
April 12th ~ 7am—9am

Once again the UMM will be serving their delicious Easter Breakfast. Come and enjoy eggs, bacon, sausage, pancakes, orange juice and coffee. Breakfast will be served in the FLC foyer and rooms 108, 109 and 110.
See you there!!

Help Wanted 3/29/09

Counters Needed!

Has God given you the gift of numerical accuracy? If so, LUMC could really use your talent! We need several great people to add to our list who can help count each week's offering. Qualified candidates will need to be available on Monday mornings/early afternoons and be accurate with computer data entry and numbers. If interested, please contact Wendy Coffey, Bookkeeper, at 781-4554 ext. 106 or e-mail wendy.coffey@lumcmo.org

Wednesday Night Supper 3/29/09

Wednesday Night Supper Cooking Teams Forming for 2009/2010
The WNS Team is looking for a few more good folks for cooking teams. We currently have enough for two complete teams and would like to form two more teams for 4 folks so that a team would only have to prepare one meal a month. If you are interested, please contact the church office for more information, 816.781.4554.

LUMY Nursery 3/29/09

LUMC Nursery
Our Mission is to be a safe and loving place where small children will be cared for and can play and learn about Jesus from the childcare providers and through activities, songs, games and books.

Donation Needs:
Plastic fill-able Easter eggs
5 oz paper disposable cups
Size 4 and 5 diapers
Crib sheets and blankets
Batteries – size “C” and “D”
Digital Ear Thermometer

You can drop off your donations in the nursery at any time. As always, you’re donations are greatly appreciated!
If you are interested in donating some of your
valuable time to our nursery ministry, please contact Joli Finke and Allison Jensen at ext 1112. We love to have you join our team—no contribution is too small!

Garden of Eatin' 3/29/09

Garden of Eatin’
The Garden of Eatin’ is looking for a shopkeeper on Sunday mornings. Duties would include: getting the produce from the refrigerators and stocking the “shelves,” counting money and weeding out rotten produce. This is a no-hands-in-the dirt job! We need someone for both upstairs and downstairs.
Call or email Kelly Minette.
781.2936 or tkminette@kc.rr.com

Garden of Eatin' 3/29/09

Garden of Eatin’
The Garden of Eatin’ is looking for a shopkeeper on Sunday mornings. Duties would include: getting the produce from the refrigerators and stocking the “shelves,” counting money and weeding out rotten produce. This is a no-hands-in-the dirt job! We need someone for both upstairs and downstairs.
Call or email Kelly Minette.
781.2936 or tkminette@kc.rr.com

Senior Trips 3/29/09

Senior Trips

Hoe Down, April 18th ~ Leave 2:30pm
Vaile Mansion tour, Lone Jack Civil War Museum, Kamey’s Place for dinner,
Big Creek Country Show
$28/person ~ Call Amy 781-4554

Join the seniors of LUMC June 25-26, 2009, in Branson, MO. Only 36 spots available.
Payment due at time of reservation.
Highlights include Osceola Cheese Factory, 110th Annual Nat’l. Packard Convention, Twelve Irish Tenors, IMAX Crossties Bluegrass & Gospel, Shoji Tobuchi Show.
Call the church office to reserve your spot now!

Family Passover Meal 3/29/09

This year LUMC is doing something new for Maundy Thursday, April 9th. The Disciple classes will be preparing a Passover Meal for the entire church family. Dinner will be served at 6:30pm. They will also lead us in readings and prayers that help us understand the Jewish and Christian traditions surrounding the events of Passover. This event is for the whole family and will be held in the Family Life Center. A message from Pastor Mark and a time of Communion will follow the meal. Music will be provided by Voices in Praise. You will need to register for the meal by calling the church office at 781-4554 or by filling out a form that will be in the March View publications.
The deadline to sign up is TODAY ~ Sunday, March 29th.
If you have questions, please contact Melody Sommers
melody.sommers@lumcmo.org or 781-4554 ext. 121

LUMC Cancer Prayer Team 3/29/09

LUMC’s Cancer Prayer Team will meet to pray privately with people dealing with cancer on Tuesday, March 31th, at 7 p.m. in the church library. To enroll someone with cancer on our prayer list, fill out the prayer request form at www.libertyumcmo.org
For more information, contact Kathleen Bird at 415-0877.

Liberty UMM Golf Tournament 3/29/09

Liberty United Methodist Men’s Golf Tournament
May 16, 2009, 8 AM.
The tournament is open to women and men of all ages, and you do not need to be a member of the church to attend. Proceeds from the UMM Golf Tournament will provide financial support for various church ministries, the Emergency Pastor’s Fund, Freedom House, Soup Kitchen, assist students with seminary scholarships and help with various maintenance projects at the church. To raise money we are looking for hole sponsors and for items to be donated for goodie bags, or any items that can be raffled off. We are asking for $100.00 to sponsor a hole. The hole sponsor will have their business advertised on a sign at the hole they sponsor. The hole sponsor or anyone donating items will be able to put business cards in the goodie bags that will be given out and will be announced at the beginning of the tournament and lunch following the tournament.
Any questions, contact Jim Jenkinson 781-7309

LUMC Job Networking 3/29/09

LUMC Job Network
Event News

Join us Tuesdays at 7pm in the Sanctuary

Schedule of Upcoming Events:
3/31 ~ Cover letter writing and reviews
4/7 ~ Interviewing skills and coaching
4/14 ~ Success night (to share and stories of success)

If you, or someone you know, is experiencing job loss or uncertainty tell them about our group-all are welcome.
Job opportunities are already available and being advertised through the group!

Questions? Contact Darin Dixson at darin_dixson@yahoo.com

Love INC Help Needed 3/29/09

Help Needed for Love INC

Most of you are aware that at Love INC, we try to meet as many needs as possible for our clients. With this in mind, we have recently received many requests for everyday household items. We reviewed our furniture/household inventory and discovered that we are in need of several items.
I have listed the requested household/furniture items and would ask for your assistance in making these needs known to your members.
We are still running low on diapers for the sizes 3-6. If you could, please call the donation line at (816)-781-3200 and press 3 to let us know if you can assist us with these items or if you have any questions. Just as a reminder, all donations should be clean and in good repair. Thanks

5 Sofas/loveseats
1 China cabinet
4 Full-size bed frames/rails
7 kitchen tables
Rugs (throw)
1 Child’s desk
9 clothes dressers
13 twin-size bed frames
2 Queen Bed frames
1 King bed frame
2 electric dryers
1 set of bunk beds
1 full-size mattress set
4 Twin-size mattresses
3 end tables
4 coffee tables
1 full-size box spring
2 TVs
Small bookcase
Metal shelves for a basement
Small kitchen table
Gas stove
Microwaves
Pots/pans

Thursday, March 19, 2009

Mark's Remarks 3/22/09

"Seven-footer Sam Randolph prays -- but won't play -- on his Sabbath," wrote Jeff Pearlman in Sports Illustrated. "For a practicing Seventh-Day Adventist, this means no keg parties. No premarital sex. It also means no work from sundown Friday to sundown Saturday. Seriously, none."Randolph, despite his size and talent, avoided big-time college basketball and its Saturday games. He chose God, and joined the team at Columbia Union College, a 1,200-student Adventist school. If he does not get a shot at the NBA (average salary $2+ million per year), he hopes to study medicine. "I'm okay with not making a career of basketball," he says. "I mean, it would be great. But I have higher aspirations." **

Beware of religion that isn’t sometimes hard. Jesus didn’t call us to carry gold and finery, he didn’t call us to come to worship when it was convenient, he didn’t call us to give what was easy, he didn’t call us to speak only the words that make folks feel good, he didn’t say that if we follow Him our lives will be “no work all ease, all honey no bees.”

He called us to love one another. He called us to love Him wholeheartedly. And He called us to bear a cross, daily. That may be hard, it’s also a privilege. Our message today is about discipleship, and the lesson we learn from Jesus’ relationship with His disciples and their trust in Him.

**Jeff Pearlman, "Never on Saturday,"Sports Illustrated, March 9, 1998.



David Bryan is in Washington, DC, the week of the 25th to receive the “Above and Beyond Citizen Medal,” one of the highest medals offered to a citizen of our country. The place will be close to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. You’ll be able to catch this local “aw shucks” hero on the Today show at the time of the event.

Last Friday, Will Tinsley and Chris Shultz treated donated dental work for a couple hundred plus folk. The boys have done this every year since I’ve been here. I thought you’d like to know.

Family Passover Meal 3/22/09

Every year LUMC offers wonderful Holy Week services that lead up to powerful celebrations on Easter morning. The Disciple classes are working on making this a meaningful event for all who attend. The delicious, authentic Jewish meal will be a vehicle for explaining the Jewish and Christian traditions surrounding Passover. Voices in Praise will provide music for reflection as we finish the meal and enter a time of worship and communion with a message by Pastor Mark. Children are welcome, as the traditional Passover meal is meant to be a rich time for the whole family.
The menu includes:
Lemon Chicken, Tabbouleh Salad
Charoseth (made with apples), Pita Bread
Angel Food Cake

The date is Thursday, April 9, at 6:30 in the Family Life Center.
Please register by calling the church office at 781-4554, or fill out the form in the View.
The deadline is Sunday, March 29.

Music Notes 3/22/09

GOOD FRIDAY CHANCEL CHOIR CANTATA
The Weeping Tree
Friday, April 10, 2009 - 7:30 pm
Witness the passion and sorrow that Christ endured on the Cross through His crucifixion and gift of grace for us. “Outside the city wall stands the weeping tree. In silence she lifts her weary arms against the darkened sky. She is a gathering place for the sorrowful and a sanctuary for the grieving. She who was cut and fashioned by hatred and violence became a tree of life for the world. Her arms are outstretched still.”
Come and encounter our own weeping tree, taken from our church courtyard after our beautiful birch tree died from an Easter ice storm in 2007. Three crosses have been made from her and will be used in this very emotional and spiritual choral presentation.

WITHOUT HIS CROSS, THERE IS NO CROWN

Joseph Martin
pianist & composer
Saturday, April 25, 2009

Tickets Available Now:
Adults: $12 ~ Seniors: $10 ~ Students/Child: $6

Call the church for tickets:
816.781.4554 ext. 119

WORSHIP THROUGH THE ARTS CONCERT SERIES

Adult Ministries 3/22/09

Prayer is the Emphasis for Lent: :

“The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective.” James 5:16


Has Babysitting Money Been Cut From Your Budget?

Date Night Co-Op is the perfect way for parents to share childcare responsibilities in the safe environment of the church so that that couples can have a date night on the first Friday of each month. The Co-Op is looking for additional parents to participate in this great ministry which allows your children to play with friends at church while you enjoy an evening with your spouse. Contact Stephanie Staatz for more information; sstaatz@aol.com or 407-9040.

Stand-Up Parenting Offers Help and Encouragement To Parents
with children of all ages who are facing parenting challenges. This confidential support group meets the first and third Monday of each month at 7 pm in room 221. For more information or a referral to the group, contact Lora Wiles.

Sunday Morning Small Groups Are a Great Way to Stay Connected.

Here’s what we have to offer:

9:30
Bible Study Basics ~ room 224: a friendly and informal Bible study group for either traditional or contemporary worshippers of all ages

9:45

Sojourners ~Ark 1: a large and social group of senior adults who study a wide variety of topics
Journey ~ Ark 2: a community of couples with young children; timed for the traditional worshipper.
Adult Bible Study ~ room 220: an in-depth journey through the Bible that you’re welcome to begin at any time.
Seekers ~ room 221: adults of all ages participate in topical studies which illuminate Biblical truths
Keystone ~ room 223: a small group of senior adults who participate in study and discussion of individual books of the Bible.
Explorers ~ Study Center 1: adults 50 and older who share Christian perspectives on contemporary issues and theology in a group discussion format
Lighthouse ~ Study Center 2: adults 40 and older who study topics related to classic disciplines or spiritual practices of the Christian faith.
Genesis ~ Study Center 3: adults 40 and older who enjoy fellowship and study on a wide variety of topics

10:30
C3 ~ room 110: a couples’ group for those who prefer contemporary worship


To find a group that’s right for you or to suggest options for new groups, contact Lora Wiles; Lora.Wiles@lumcmo.org or 781-4554 x111.

LUMY 3/22/09

Calling all Parents of teens
The Youth Ministry of Liberty United Methodist Church could not survive without your help and support! There are so many things coming up that we just cannot do with out you!
We need help with our Spring Break Beach Party. We need someone to run a grill, someone to provide some hot dogs, someone to provide chips, someone to provide buns and condiments!
We also need help with the April 18th LockOUT!
Yes, this will require you to stay up all night and do really fun things, you in??

If you can help with any of these, please let us know!

Children's Ministries 3/22/09

The Children’s Sunday School lesson come from March 14: 32-42. Jesus wanted the disciples to pray with him in the Garden of Gathsemane, but they kept falling asleep. Jesus wanted them to know that prayer is very important.
At home, try this 5-finger prayer (author unknown):
Your thumb is the nearest to you. So begin your prayer by praying for those closest to you. They are the easiest to remember. To pray for our loved ones is, as C. S. Lewis once said, a "sweet duty."
The next finger is the pointing finger. Pray for those who teach, instruct, and heal. This includes teachers, doctors, and ministers. They need support and wisdom in pointing others in the right direction. Keep them in your prayers.
The next finger is the tallest finger. It reminds us of our leaders. Pray for the president, leaders in industry and business, and administrators. These people shape our nation and guide public opinion. They need God's guidance.
The fourth finger is our ring finger. Surprising to many is the fact that this is our weakest finger; as any piano teacher will testify. It should remind us to pray for those who are weak, in trouble, or in pain. They need your prayers day and night. You cannot pray too much for them.
And lastly comes our little finger; the smallest finger of all. Which is where we should place ourselves in relation to God and others. As the Bible says, "the least shall be the greatest among you." Your pinky should remind you to pray for yourself.

The Asbury College Student Ministry Team touched the lives of 41 fourth-and-fifth graders. It was a fantastic time. The students learned how “God Uses Imperfect People” and discovered that even though none of us is perfect, God can do amazing things for and through us. The students did skits, played some great games, studied five Bible stories, learned some really fun new songs, went to The Edge Gymnastics to play, and ate LOTS of good snacks. Many thanks go to those who supplied food, the parents who helped sponsor the event, the host homes, and the LUMC prayer team for praying for us!

The Mother/Son Dirt Date is scheduled for Friday, April 17th,from 6:30 to 8:30 for 4-year-olds through 5th- graders. The event will be held in the Family Life Center. Please pre-register by e-mailing Sondra Buell or calling her at the numbers listed above.

Did you know we have a memorization program in children’s Sunday School? We do! The 2nd-and 3rd-graders have been memorizing the Books of the Bible. The first three students to memorize all the books, Old and New Testaments, are Jackson Witt, Max Minette, and Andrew Steinbeck. Congratulations, boys! We are so proud of you!

Why should our kids go to church camp?
· A spiritual transformation happens when your child attends summer church camp.
· It is witnessed that many kids who attend camp come home to be leaders in their home churches.
· Being in God’s Big Backyard under the prayerful leadership of dedicated Christian directors and counselors brings kids closer in their relationship to God.
· Campers become equipped with the faith and skill needed for living in today’s big world.
Campers have a chance to claim the call God has on their life.

Garden of Eatin' 3/22/09

Garden of Eatin’
The Garden of Eatin’ is looking for a shopkeeper on Sunday mornings. Duties would include: getting the produce from the refrigerators and stocking the “shelves,” counting money and weeding out rotten produce. This is a no-hands-in-the dirt job! We need someone for both upstairs and downstairs.
Call or email Kelly Minette.
781.2936 or tkminette@kc.rr.com

LUMC Nursery 3/22/09

LUMC Nursery
Our Mission is to be a safe and loving place where small children will be cared for and can play and learn about Jesus from the childcare providers and through activities, songs, games and books.

Donation Needs:
Plastic fill-able Easter eggs
5-oz paper disposable cups
Size 4 and 5 diapers
Crib sheets and blankets
Batteries – size “C” and “D”
Digital Ear Thermometer

You can drop off your donations in the nursery at any time. As always, you’re donations are greatly appreciated!
If you are interested donating some of your
valuable time to our nursery ministry, please contact Joli Finke and Allison Jensen at ext. 112. We love to have you join our team—no contribution is too small!

UMM Easter Breakfast 3/22/09

UMM Easter Breakfast
April 12th ~ 7am—9am

Once again the UMM will be serving their delicious Easter Breakfast. Come and enjoy eggs, bacon, sausage, pancakes, orange juice and coffee. Breakfast will be served in the FLC foyer and rooms 108, 109 and 110.
See you there!!

Wednesday Night Supper Help Wanted 3/22/09

Wednesday Night Supper Cooking Teams Forming for 2009/2010
The WNS Team is looking for a few more good folks for cooking teams. We currently have enough for two complete teams and would like to form two more teams for 4 folks so that a team would only have to prepare one meal a month. If you are interested, please contact the church office for more information, 816.781.4554.

LUMC Cookbook 3/22/09

Coming soon: The NEW LUMC Cookbook brought to you by MOPS! To reserve your copy, please contact Amy Steinbeck at amy.steinbeck@lumcmo.org or stop by the church office Tues.-Thurs. before noon. They are only $12 each.

Senior Branson Trip 3/22/09

Senior Branson Trip
Join the seniors of LUMC June 25-26, 2009, in Branson, MO. Only 36 spots available.
Payment due at time of reservation.
Highlights include Osceola Cheese Factory, 110th Annual Nat’l. Packard Convention, Twelve Irish Tenors, IMAX Crossties Bluegrass & Gospel, Shoji Tobuchi Show.
Call the church office to reserve your spot now!

Help Wanted 3/22/09

Counters Needed!

Has God given you the gift of numerical accuracy? If so, LUMC could really use your talent! We need several great people to add to our list who can help count each week's offering. Qualified candidates will need to be available on Monday mornings/early afternoons and be accurate with computer data entry and numbers. If interested, please contact Wendy Coffey, Bookkeeper, at 781-4554 ext. 106 or e-mail wendy.coffey@lumcmo.org

Liberty UMM Golf Tournament 3/22/09

Liberty United Methodist Men’s Golf Tournament
May 16, 2009, 8 AM.
The tournament is open to women and men of all ages, and you do not need to be a member of the church to attend. Proceeds from the UMM Golf Tournament will provide financial support for various church ministries, the Emergency Pastor’s Fund, Freedom House, Soup Kitchen, assist students with seminary scholarships and help with various maintenance projects at the church. To raise money we are looking for hole sponsors and for items to be donated for goodie bags, or any items that can be raffled off. We are asking for $100.00 to sponsor a hole. The hole sponsor will have their business advertised on a sign at the hole they sponsor. The hole sponsor or anyone donating items will be able to put business cards in the goodie bags that will be given out and will be announced at the beginning of the tournament and lunch following the tournament.
Any questions, contact Jim Jenkinson 781-7309

LUMC Cancer Prayer Team 3/22/09

LUMC’s Cancer Prayer Team will meet to pray privately with people dealing with cancer on Tuesday, March 30th, at 7 p.m. in the church
library. To enroll someone with cancer on our prayer list, fill out the prayer request form at www.libertyumcmo.org. For more information, contact Kathleen Bird at 415-0877,

LUMC’s quarterly Healing Service will be held on Tuesday, April 28, at 7:0 p.m. in the prayer room in the Study Center. Everyone is welcome. The service follows Methodist liturgy and is led by pastoral staff. A time for private prayers will follow.

Thursday, March 5, 2009

Mark's Remarks 3/8/09

I heard this story at the beginning of my ministry thirty years ago, and I think it was old even then. But it is a terrific illustration of the topic of the teaching for today.

A man died and went to Heaven. When he showed up at the pearly gates, St. Peter was waiting. "I want to enter Heaven," said the man. "You may enter," replied Peter, "if you have accumulated 100 points on earth.""Well," said the man, "I was baptized in the church and scarcely missed a Sunday in my entire life.""That's good," said Peter. "That's one point!""What!? Only one more point!? Well, I tried to live a good life. I tried to be a good father and husband.
"One point? -- only one point?”
“Well, I did serve on the Administrative Board for 20 years, and I taught Sunday School for 25 years…Jr. Hi…boys!""That's good. Another point."“One point?! I guess the only way I will get into Heaven is by the Grace of God!""That's right!," said St. Peter with a smile on his face. "And that's worth 97 points. Come on in."
This idea of grace, unmerited favor of God toward us, is totally over and above any of our
expectations. It is so Christian! Rub your nose in it, roll in it, be enamored by it, share it, never forget it.

* * * * *

At Ash Wednesday service we announced that the offering would be used to purchase new wireless
microphones.
Since the FCC or whomever in the government has removed several frequencies from public usage, several of our microphones were rendered useless. The cost for these instruments plus receivers was $3,500. The Ash Wed offering was $943. While it didn’t amount to $3500, it was a great help!

LUMC Dirt Team 3/8/09

LUMC DIRT TEAM
in action again!

Just one of the many missions of LUMC that is supported by your participation in our
MISSIONS AUCTION
SATURDAY, MAY 2, 2009

KENNETT, MISSOURI, ICE STORM

From February 9 to February 20, members of the LUMC DIRT
TEAM were in Kennett, Mo., helping to clean up after an ice storm. This storm knocked out power from Oklahoma to
Kentucky. In the small town of Kennett over 450 power poles were knocked down and virtually every tree sustained damage.
Kennett is located in Dunklin County, which is one of the
poorest counties in Missouri. The storm brought a great
burden to many already suffering. Hundreds of roofs were damaged, many belonging to people that had no insurance. Recovery will be slow; many homes will never be restored. The LUMC Dirt Team was the only volunteer tree and debris
removal crew in Kennett at that time. We brought the first sign of hope to many people. We would like our church family to know that their support was greatly appreciated. We would like those who prepared food to know that we shared with a person who had no food. He and others thanked us with words and we saw it in their eyes.

Adult Ministries 3/8/09

Lenten Groups are meeting to study When God’s People Pray. It’s not too late to join

300 LUMC participants in
17 different groups for
6 powerful weeks with
1 Awesome God

C3 Small Group For Couples Recently had a Wii Bit of Fun

When members of C3 are not perfecting their Wii skills at a social activity, they’re studying together on Sunday mornings at 10:30 in room 110. If you’d like to be part of a group like C3, contact Lora Wiles, Coordinator of Adult Ministries.

LUMY 3/8/09

Last weekend LUMY participated in World Visions 30-Hour Famine! It was such a wonderful event. We learned a lot about the people who die every day from hunger-related causes, and we experienced a “day in the life” by working for donations and fasting for 30 hours. We joined together on Thursday, and God answered our prayers and held off the rain. We built our “cardboard city” (cardboard boxes that we slept in) and then opened with a devotion. We split up into two teams and worked till dark raking leaves and cleaning up yards for two very wonderful women in our church, Ruth Tucker and Lois Jennings. We went back to our host home for a time of reflection, devotion and prayer. We were off to bed by 10:00pm. We woke up to the bitter cold, broke down our sleeping quarters, and walked to Jane and Don Longfellow’s home where we were able to help them clean up their yard! We worked all morning and then walked back to our host home to clean it up and then share together again in worship and communion followed by a wonderful meal. We couldn’t have done this event without the work we did! So thank you to Lois, Ruth and Jane & Don. We appreciate you letting us work and for your donations to our cause. A huge thanks to Jim Gleason for giving up his own time to come out and help us on our worksites (and for talking about food so much). A huge thank you to Lori Crooks for gathering so many donations to provide us with our amazing break-fast meal. Thanks so much to Scott Beard for coming out and leading communion! Ryan Mose, thank you so much for participating and for hauling off our cardboard city to the recycling center. And another giant thank you to Lora Wiles. While you have your own ministry you are in charge of, you always make room in your life to help out with ours. LUMY just wouldn’t be the same without you. Also a thank you to the parent support on site: Sarah Fravel, Judy Petroll, Kevin Gordon, Lora Wiles, Vicki McGiffin and Lori Crooks. You are all such wonderful help! All I have left to tell you is how much money we raised! We raised $4,539.25. That means that we raised enough money to feed 12 kids for a year and another for 6 months! Thank you for your constant support of this ministry!

For new mission trip information, please check your e-mails or the LUMY Website. www.lumy.weebly.com

LUMY is selling these cards for $10.00! These cards can be used at each location once a day till October of this year! This card can help you save big. Especially if you eat out at sandwich shops a lot!!

$6.00 on each card go to LUMY scholarship budget to help students go to camp and mission trips. Pick one up today in the LUMY office or call/e-mail, and we will set one aside for you!

Children's Ministries 3/8/09

In today’s Sunday School lesson the children will study Matthew 16:13-18 and will discuss Jesus’ question to the disciples, “Who do you say that I am?” Ask your child about Peter and about the word Messiah. Ask your child why Jesus named Peter, the Rock.

In today’s stewardship lesson the children will learn about good deeds from James 1:22. As good stewards of what God has given us, the kids will learn that caring for the sick, comforting the lonely, and helping those who are sad pleases God and richly blesses our lives!

Today we welcome and thank the Asbury College SMT team: Christian, Lucas, Audrey, Lauren, Bri, and Erica for leading our 4th-and 5th-graders in an awesome weekend retreat!


Notice:
The Mother/Son Dirt Date has been rescheduled to Friday, April 17th, 6:30 to 8:30 pm in Wesley Hall for four-year-olds through fifth grade.

Mark your calendars: Vacation Bible School will be July 13-17, 2009

Question of the Week

Are there any camp discounts?
· There is a $25.00 early bird discount if you register before April 16th.
· If you bring a friend that has not gone to camp before, you’ll get $25.00 off your registration fee.
· For our members’ children, LUMC will pay ½ the camp fee, up to $125.00
· The 2nd camper from the same household pays 90% of the camp fee,
The 3rd camper from the same household pays 80% of the fee, and so on.

Music Notes 3/8/09

Easter Choir for Contemporary Services
The Christmas Choir was such a success that we’d like to celebrate Easter by joining voices with the Praise Team and Band again and making a “joyful noise” to our risen Lord! We’ll have a brief meeting between contemporary services at 10:15 on March 15th to pass out music and practice CDs. Then we’ll rehearse the next 4 Tuesdays from 6:30 to 7:30, childcare provided. We’ll be learning a song to
present during the offering along with songs to lead the congregation in worship. We’ll also take some time for fellowship and prayer. The choir will sing on Easter, April 12, at the 9:00 and 10:30 services. To sign up, contact Melody Sommers: melody.sommers@lumcmo.org; 781-4554 ext. 121.



WORSHIP THROUGH THE ARTS

Joseph Martin
Pianist & Composer
April 25, 2009
7pm



The Greatest Generation
A Historical & Musical Review of God’s Faithfulness
June 27, 2009
7pm

Celebrating the generation that gave this country so much to be proud of, the LUMC Music
Department will bring us a show of narration and music together that will touch your heart.
Focusing on our country’s history from 1900 to the 1940s, both sacred and secular music and events will be showcased. Top off the evening with ice cream and good friends.
Presented in cooperation with the Annie Moses Band’s Wolaver
family from their summer 2008 production.

UMW Braided Bread for Easter 3/8/09

Braided Bread for Easter
On Saturday, March 28, 2009, the United Methodist Women will be baking braided bread. The bread is a one-pound loaf that is brushed with an egg wash before it is baked so it has a beautiful shine to enhance your Easter table. It is $4 per loaf. Please pick up your bread that day between 10am and 2pm…..still fresh from the oven. It freezes well. If you would like to join the fun of baking the bread, please join us. We need persons to knead, braid, brush with the egg wash, take the bread from the pans and sack the cooled bread. To order or join the fun, call
Hazel Davidson, 781.2763, or the church office. The profit from this project will be used to help women and children locally as well as around the world.

Family Passover Supper/Maundy Thurday 3/8/09

This year LUMC is doing something new for Maundy Thursday, April 9th. The Disciple classes will be preparing a Passover Meal for the entire church family. Dinner will be served at 6:30pm. They will also lead us in readings and prayers that help us understand the Jewish and Christian traditions surrounding the events of Passover. This event is for the whole family and will be held in the Family Life Center. A message from Pastor Mark and a time of Communion will follow the meal. Music will be provided by Voices in Praise. You will need to register for the meal by calling the church office at 781-4554 or by filling out a form that will be in the March View publications. The deadline to sign up is Sunday, March 29th.
If you have questions, please contact
Melody Sommers: melody.sommers@lumcmo.org; 781-4554 ext. 121

Liberty UMM Golf Tournament 3/8/09

Liberty United Methodist Men’s Golf Tournament
May 16th, 2009, 8 AM.
The tournament is open to women and men of all ages, and you do not need to be a member of the church to attend. Proceeds from the UMM Golf tournament will provide financial support for various church ministries, the Emergency Pastor’s Fund, Freedom House, Soup Kitchen, assisted students with seminary scholarships and help with various maintenance projects at the church. To raise money we are looking for hole sponsors and for items to be donated for goodie bags, or any items that can be raffled off. We are asking for $100.00 to sponsor a hole. The hole sponsor will have their business advertised on a sign at the hole they sponsor. The hole sponsor or anyone donating items will be able to put business cards in the goodie bags that will be given out
Any questions contact Jim Jenkinson 781-7309

Liberty UMM Golf Tournament 3/8/09

Liberty United Methodist Men’s Golf Tournament
May 16th, 2009, 8 AM.
The tournament is open to women and men of all ages, and you do not need to be a member of the church to attend. Proceeds from the UMM Golf tournament will provide financial support for various church ministries, the Emergency Pastor’s Fund, Freedom House, Soup Kitchen, assisted students with seminary scholarships and help with various maintenance projects at the church. To raise money we are looking for hole sponsors and for items to be donated for goodie bags, or any items that can be raffled off. We are asking for $100.00 to sponsor a hole. The hole sponsor will have their business advertised on a sign at the hole they sponsor. The hole sponsor or anyone donating items will be able to put business cards in the goodie bags that will be given out
Any questions contact Jim Jenkinson 781-7309

Mission and Auction News 3/8/09

CROW CREEK MISSION
INFORMATIONAL MEETING

There will be an informational meeting March 22, 2009, at 2pm in the Ark for the Crow Creek (Lakota Sioux) mission trip to Ft. Thompson, SD, June 14-20, 2009. Attendees should come prepared to pay a $100.00 reservation fee that will be sent to the Tree of Life mission to hold their spot (the balance of $150.00 will be due by May 30, 2009). We anticipate taking approximately 50 people this year to do home repair, food and clothing distribution, gardening and Bible school. If you have questions prior to the meeting, please contact Kevin Fisher or Everett Easley at 816-781-4554.

8th ANNUAL MISSIONS BENEFIT AUCTION & DINNER

May 2, 2009
Registration 4:00 ~ Dinner 4:30 – 6:00 pm
Silent Auction starts at 4:00 ~ Live Auction starts at 7:00

We are here to be God’s hands and feet, and that is what exactly we are doing here at the Liberty United Methodist Church. Without the Auction, we would not be able to support the various ministries in the church and in the community. We cannot do it without you.

We are in need of several new items for the Live and Silent Auctions. Just remember, if it is something you would purchase for yourself, then it is probably something that would do well in the auction.

For more information, you can call Mary Robinson 781-1469, Charlotte or Amy at the church 781-4554

We hope you make plans to join us this year.
Don’t forget to invite your neighbors and friends
for an evening of fun on the hill.

Wednesday Night Supper 3/8/09

Wednesday Night Suppers is looking for extra help!!

If you would like to help out making desserts on Tuesdays, doing kitchen prep work on Wednesday morning/afternoon, help serving food, or help with cleanup, we would love to have you! This is a great way to make new friends and work with a really wonderful group of people.
Call the church office at 781-4554 if you would like to help.

Garden of Eatin' 3/8/09

Garden of Eatin
The Garden of Eatin’ is looking for a shopkeeper on
Sunday mornings. Duties would include: getting the produce from the refrigerators and stocking the “shelves,” counting money and weeding out rotten
produce. This is a no-hands-in-the dirt job! We need someone for both upstairs and downstairs.
Call or email Kelly Minette.
781.2936 or tkminette@kc.rr.com

Nursery Volunteers Needed 3/8/09

LUMC Nursery is seeking adult volunteers to come and PLAY!

During the week, the LUMC Nursery provides childcare for children under 12 while parents attend
meetings, small groups, and other activities. The nursery is also open every Sunday morning for
children under 5.

Our wonderful volunteer staff supports this ministry AND helps the church budget! Volunteer hours are available during the week, on weeknights, all day on Sunday, and even on some Saturdays. Our
biggest staffing need right now is 6:30pm-8:30pm on Sunday nights to support the new Dave Ramsey
study.

If you are interested in volunteering some time to come and play with us,
please call the nursery at ext. 112 and leave us a message!.

Sunday School Teacher Opening 3/8/09

Sunday School Teacher Opening
We are looking for a couple folks who have a desire in their heart to teach our 4th and 5th graders at the 8:55 Sunday School hour. Be brave. Step forward. Do it for the kids (and receive a great benefit for yourself!) Contact Sondra Buell at 781-4554, ext 115 or Sondra.Buell@lumcmo.org

United Methodist Women 3/8/09

United Methodist Women

Sunset Fellowship, Tuesday, Mar. 10, 7pm
Study Center, Hostess ~ ML Stephenson

Spice of Life, Tuesday, Mar. 17, 9:30am
Study Center, Hostess ~ Nancy Washburn

Joyful Fellowship, Thursday, Mar. 19, 1pm
Sarah Hutt, Hostess

Friday, February 27, 2009

Mark's Remarks 3/1/09

One of my favorite passages of prose is from Garrison Keillor, who writes: "To know and to serve God, of course, is why we're here, a clear truth that, like the nose on your face, is near at hand and easily discernible but can make you dizzy if you try to focus on it hard. But a little faith will see you through. ... When the country goes temporarily to the dogs, cats must learn to be circumspect, walk on fences, sleep in trees, and have faith that all this woofing is not the last word. What is the last word then? Gentleness is everywhere in daily life, a sign that faith rules through ordinary things: through cooking and small talk, through storytelling, making love, fishing, tending animals and sweet corn and flowers, through sports, music and books, raising kids-- all the places where the gravy soaks in and grace shines through.**

In the midst of all of the national and local news, the stock market, the school board issues, isn’t it good to know that all the “woofing is not the last word,” patience wins. The beginning of Lent is a reminder that spring is on the way, the flowers are going to bloom, and, yes, God is still in heaven.

Lent is a time for renewal. It’s a time to think about the Lord and what your faith means to you. It’s good. “Gentleness is everywhere in daily life, a sign that faith rules through ordinary things.”** Try a time for introspection at church. It’s called “Cross-Examination,” taking a look at your life from the perspective of Our Lord.


** Garrison Keillor, "On the Meaning of Life," in We Are Still Married (New York: Viking, 1989), as quoted in Tim Dearborn, Taste & See: Awakening Our Spiritual Senses (Downers Grove: Ill.: Intervarsity Press, 1996), 71.

Lenten Sermon Series 3/1/09

Cross Examined

March 1 In Light of the Cross of Jesus
John 1: 35-42

March 8 Are You a Teacher and Yet You
Do Not Understand?
John 3: 1-21

March 15 Do You Want to Be Made Well?
John 5: 1-15

March 22 Do You Wish to Go Away?
John 6: 60-71
March 29 Will You Lay Down Your Life for Me?
John 13: 31-38

April 5 Am I Not to Drink From the Cup?
John 18: 1-11

Easter Sunday
April 12 Why Are You Weeping—Whom do you
seek?
John 20: 1-19

Faimly Passover Dinner 3/1/09

This year LUMC is doing something new for Maundy Thursday, April 9th. The Disciple classes will be preparing a Passover Meal for the entire church family. They will also lead us in readings and prayers that help us understand the Jewish and Christian traditions surrounding the events of Passover. This event is for the whole family and will be held in the Family Life Center. A message from Pastor Mark and a time of Communion will follow the meal. Music will be provided by Voices in Praise. You will need to register for the meal by calling the church office at 781-4554 or by filling out a form that will be in the March View publications. The deadline to sign up is Sunday, March 29th. If you have questions, please contact Melody Sommers: melody.sommers@lumcmo.org; 781-4554 ext. 121.

UMW Braided Bread for Easter 3/1/09

Braided Bread for Easter
On Saturday, March 28, 2009 , the United Methodist Women will be baking braided bread. The bread is a one-pound loaf that is brushed with an egg wash before it is baked so it has a beautiful shine to enhance your Easter table. It is $4 per loaf. Please pick up your bread that day between 10am and 2pm…..still fresh from the oven. It freezes well. If you would like to join the fun of baking the bread please join us. We need persons to knead, braid, brush with the egg wash, take the bread from the pans and sack the cooled bread. To order or join the fun, call
Hazel Davidson, 781.2763 or the church office. The profit from this project will be used to help women and children locally as well as around the world.

Adventures in Learning 3/1/09

Adventures in Learning
Held at Liberty United Methodist Church
March 20, 2009
SILENT AUCTION

9:15am Blood Pressure Checks—Pat Cull, RN
9:30am Coffee, Fellowship, Announcements

There will be one program at 10am

“The Blessings, Challenges, Responsibilities of Strong Independent Women”
Presenter, Lauren Kennedy, Counselor

11am “New Voice for Religion in Liberty”
Rev, Jim Hoffman - North Star United Methodist Church

11am “Getting Your House Ready to Sell”
Jack Burns—Realty Executive Area Realtors

11am “Changes in Postal Services and How it Affects You”
Kelly McCartney, 28-year postal employee

Noon Lunch catered by 1st Ward LDS
Baked Ham, Potatoes Casserole. Tossed Salad, Rolls and Brownies

Class Registration—$1.50 ~ Lunch $3.50
Call 781-1825 or email mjyoung@thepayload.com for lunch reservations by Wed., Mar. 18
Sponsored by Shepherd’s Center of the Northland and Liberty Ministerial Alliance

Everyone is invited to bring items for the silent auction.

Music Note 3/1/09

The Luther College Nordic Choir, one of the top a cappella college choirs in the nation, will perform in the sanctuary of the Liberty United Methodist Church on Monday, March, 2, 2009 at 7:30pm.. The concert performance by the 75-member Nordic Choir is open to the public, and a free-will offering will be received.
The Liberty UMC concert is part of the Nordic Choir’s tour of the Midwest as they journey to the American Choral Director’s Association National Convention in Oklahoma City. The choir tours annually and has performed in major concert halls in the United States and Central and Eastern Europe.
Dr. Craig Arnold is Director of Choral Activities, Conductor of the Nordic Choir, and Professor of Music at Luther College in Decorah, IA, following the 57-year tenure of Weston Noble.
Don’t miss this great opportunity to hear the Nordic Choir, as they will surely bless our lives with their tremendous choral artistry.

Easter Choir for Contemporary Services

The Christmas Choir was such a success that we’d like to celebrate Easter by joining voices with the Praise Team and Band again and making a “joyful noise” to our risen Lord! We’ll have a brief meeting between contemporary services at 10:15 on March 15th to pass out music and practice CDs. Then we’ll rehearse the next 4 Tuesdays from 6:30 to 7:30, childcare provided. We’ll be learning a song to present during the offering along with songs to lead the congregation in worship. We’ll also take some time for fellowship and prayer. The choir will sing on Easter, April 12, at the 9:00 and 10:30 services. To sign up contact Melody Sommers: melody.sommers@lumcmo.org; 781-4554 ext. 121.

United Methodist Men Golf Tounament 3/1/09

Liberty United Methodist Men Golf Tournament
May 16th 2009 8 AM.
The tournament is open to Women and Men of all ages and you do not need to be a member of the church to attend. Proceeds from the UMM Golf tournament will provided financial support for various church ministries, the Emergency Pastor’s Fund, Freedom House, Soup Kitchen, assisted students with seminary scholarships and help with various maintenance projects at the church. To raise money we are looking for hole sponsors and for items to be donated for goodie bags, or any items that can be raffled off. We are asking for $100.00 to sponsor a hole. The hole sponsor will have their business advertised on a sign at the hole they sponsor. The hole sponsor or anyone donating items will be able to put business cards in the goodie bags that will be given out. And will be announced at the beginning of the tournament and lunch following the tournament.
Any questions contact Jim Jenkinson 781-7309

Job Networking Event 3/1/09

Job Networking Event
Attention all LUMC Members- if you or someone you know is experiencing unemployment or job uncertainty in these tough economic times, this is an opportunity to support each other through faith and networking within our LUMC family. This job networking event will be for LUMC members or friends of LUMC members who have been downsized, laid off or facing employment uncertainty. We are also seeking support from resume writers, HR professionals, executives, business owners or anyone else who could offer job search assistance through tips, counseling, advice or employment opportunities.
Please contact Darin Dixson at (816) 719-0635
or darin_dixson@yahoo.com if interested n attending.
Our kick off meeting will be Tuesday, March 3rd at 7:00 p.m. in the Sanctuary. Thank you.

8th Annual Missions Auction and Dinner 3/1/09

8th ANNUAL MISSIONS BENEFIT AUCTION & DINNER

May 2, 2009
Registration 4:00 ~ Dinner 4:30 – 6:00 pm
Silent Auction starts at 4:00 ~ Live Auction starts at 7:00

We are here to be God’s hands and feet and that is what exactly we are doing here at the Liberty United Methodist Church. Without the Auction, we would not be able to support the various ministries in the church and in the community. We can not do it without you.

We are in need of several new items for the Live and Silent Auctions, just remember if it is something you would purchase for yourself then it is probably something that would do well in the auction.

For more information, you can call Mary Robinson 781-1469, Charlotte, or Amy at the church 781-4554

We hope you make plans to join us this year.
Don’t forget to invite your neighbors and friends
for an evening of fun on the hill.

Spofford Needs 3/1/09

Spofford In-Gathering
Items need to b brought to the church office by March 8th.
Please mark the item SPOFFORD.
For more information please call Brenda Glasco, 781.3062


Plastic shoeboxes
Suave shampoo
Suave conditioner
Plastic caps for toothbrushes
Deodorant
Body Lotion
Washcloths
Dove bar soap
Construction paper
Colored pencils
Popsicle sticks
Glue
Coloring books
Markers

Adult Ministries 3/1/09

Last month, 30 LUMC seniors joined in the chorus of Little Old Lady from Pasadena when the Kitchen Band from Wexford Place Retirement Center performed at the monthly meeting of the Seasoned Citizens’ Luncheon and Fellowship. What will the Seasoned Citizens be up to this month? Come find out at the potluck luncheon on March 6 at 11:45 in the Family Life Center. Seasoned Citizens meet the first Friday of each month. All seniors are invited to attend this time of food and fellowship. Bring a place setting and a dish to share.

When God’s People Pray

As small groups this month are studying the topic of prayer, consider these additional resources:
Too Busy Not to Pray—Bill Hybels
Pray Big— Will Davis, Jr.
Remarkable Prayers of the Bible—Jim George
Prayer: Does it Make Any Difference? - Philip Yancy
Power of a Praying Wife/Husband—Stormie Omartian
The Presence Based Church—Terry Teykl
Travelling the Prayer Paths of Jesus—John Indermark
Fresh Wind, Fresh Fire—Jim Cymbala
Pivotal Praying—Tim Elmore and John Hull
Becoming the Answer to Our Prayers: Prayers for Ordinary Radicals -Shane Claiborne
Limited FREE Registrations are available to those who have lost jobs in the last 6 months.
A Weekend to Remember Straud Brewer is organizing registrations and group discounts for this great Family Life Today marriage weekend conference coming to Overland Park March 13-15 or March 20-22.Follow this link to register and read Straud’s testimony about A Weekend to Rememberhttp://www.familylife.com/groups/brewscrew

LUMY 3/1/09

New Website- In case you haven’t checked it out yet, we have a great new and improved LUMY website that is updated constantly, http://lumy.weebly.com/ or you can link from the churches main website. Lumcmo.org. Something that we have on there that makes it special is a Parent Page. This page consists of “Things we think you should know.” This will be updated weekly on things that your students are facing so that you can know and take some time to discuss them with your student. Check it out and let us know what you think, ask questions, or request information on a certain subject.

Bible Study- Wednesday Night Bible Study has been fun, engaging, challenging, and relevant. If you haven’t been yet, check it out this Wednesday. 8th-12th graders meet from 5-6pm in Study Center 4. We get dinner as part of Wednesday night supper before the study and bring it over. 6th and 7th graders meet from 6:15-7pm in Study Center 5 (The LUMY Room). In this Bible Study we are learning about discernment and how to use it concerning media and its influence. For more information check out: http://cpyu.org/Default.aspx .

MISSION TRIP ANNOUNCEMENT! It is finally settled. We will be traveling back to New Orleans with completed 8th graders-completed Seniors. We will be going the week of August 1st-8th. If you are interested let us know and we will be updating you on information as we find out more about cost. This will be our only youth mission “trip” this summer due to camp, faithworks, VBS, and the college mission trip...and the current economic status of our country. Don’t forget you have an opportunity to serve in the Food Kitchen every first Saturday!

March 27th LUMY will be partnering with Liberty Christian Fellowship, Desperation Church, and Shoal Creek to bring Masters Commission to Liberty. We are so excited about getting all of our youth together to worship in one accord as the Bible calls us to do! This event will be at Shoal Creek at 8:00pm. Check e-mails or e-mail us for more information.

Sunday Night LUMY Schedule mixes up again.
Normal LUMY times are as follows;
6th-7th graders meet in the FLC from 5:30-6:45
8th-12th graders meet in the FLC from 6:30-8:30
March 15th ALL LUMY meets at 6:30. All other March Sundays are normal.

Children's Ministries 3/1/09

The Children’s Sunday School Lessons for March:
B.i.G. Idea for March: We believe that the stories of Peter show us that God can use imperfect people.
B.i.G. Theme for March: Peter, the Story of a Disciple
B.i.G. Bible Memory Verse for March: “We have found the Messiah.” John 1:41

The Children’s Stewardship Lessons in March will focus on all aspects of Stewardship: Our Prayers, our Presence, our Gifts, and our Service. Each week, the children will light candles on a Lenten Cross and discuss these things in relation to Lent. If you would like a Lenten cross to use at home, contact Sondra Buell and she will give you the directions.

The children will want to be present in Sunday School in March because we will be participating in a butterfly unit,
comparing the caterpillar, cocoon and butterfly to the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. This is a favorite activity for our LUMC kids! Our butterfly release will happen on Easter Sunday.

Thank you Sunday School Teachers.
We will honor our children’s Sunday School teachers with an Appreciation Breakfast on March 29th. We will need substitutes to cover the classes – thanks to EVERYONE who helps us on these 5th Sunday teacher training days.

It’s Retreat Time for 4th and 5th Graders
Friday eve, March 6 ~ 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm; Saturday, March 7 ~ 10:00 am to 5:00 pm; Sunday morning, March 8 ~ 9:00 Sunday School
Come and have a crazy good time with a College Student Ministry Team from Asbury College!
Games, crazy good music, junk food (and good food!), awesome Bible lessons on How God Uses Imperfect People, off-campus trip, worship, fabulous fun . . . all at the Study Center with college students!
Pre-registration needed. Call or e-mail Sondra Buell (contact information above) and reserve your spot!

Sunday School Teacher Opening
We are looking for a couple who has a desire in their heart to teach our 4th and 5th graders at the 8:55 Sunday School hour. Be brave. Step forward. Do it for the kids (and receive a great benefit for yourself!) Contact Sondra Buell at 781-4554, ext 115 or Sondra.Buell@lumcmo.org

Thursday, February 19, 2009

Mark' Remarks 2/22/09

It’s been several years since I read Olive Ann Burns' novel “Cold Sassy Tree.” It’s filled with interesting thought. In that book at one point Will raises the question of why Jesus said that we could ask God for anything we want and get it. Grandpa Blakeslee responds, "Maybe Jesus was talkin' in His sleep, son, or folks heard Him wrong." But then he goes on to add: "All I know is thet folks pray for food and still go hungry, and Adam and Eve ain't in thet garden a-theirs no more, and yore granny ain't in hers, and I ain't got no son a-my own to carry on the name and hep me run the store when I'm old. Like you say, you don't git thangs jest by astin'. Well, I'm a-go'n study on this some more. Jesus must a meant something else, not what it sounds like."

We’re talking about that this morning and in the coming month. Not everything happens just like I pray for it. Another metaphor was raised by a monk who said that when we pray it was like having a date with God. Well, there are dates and there are dates. In your old days, some of your dates were a lot of fun, and some you never quite figured out. If prayer is like a date, then I’m like Grandpa Blakeslee. Sometimes I just don’t understand it. Maybe you’re the same way. Perhaps we all would like to “study on this some more.” No better time than now. Sign up.

Lenten Schedule for 2009

Lenten Schedule

Ash Wednesday
7 pm

Maundy Thursday
Family Passover Meal
TBD, Wesley Hall

Good Friday
3pm, Children’s worship, FLC
7:30pm, Main Sanctuary

Easter Sunday

Traditional
8:00am
9:30am
11:00 am

Contemporary
9:00am
10:30am

Mission News-SD Trip

The Missions Work Area is planning our second annual mission work trip (for persons 14 years or older) to Crow Creek Reservation in South Dakota June 14-20, 2009. We will be working with Lakota people of the Crow Creek Sioux Tribe. Crow Creek Reservation is located about 60 miles southeast from Pierre, South Dakota. Mission teams assist with repairs to homes, churches, shelters, youth center, daycare
facilities, etc. Other tasks available are sewing, working in the Thrift Shop or Food Pantry, cooking in the hot lunch program, providing VBS at the Boys/Girls Club, and much more. There are always varied work projects to keep team members busy.

The cost of this VIM mission trip is $200-$275, which covers food, transportation, lodging, and building materials. The reservation housing can accommodate up to 100 people. If you are interested in being a part of this mission experience, please contact Everett Easley at the church office, 781-4554, by March 17. A $125 application fee will be due from each participant wishing to go. This will help secure our team’s date on the calendar. Informational meetings will be forthcoming.

We will be there to appreciate, to understand, to learn, to make friends and to nurture the hope that the Lakota People have in themselves. We are looking forward to a great week where we will come together to do God's work.

Contemporary Easter Choir 2/22/09

Easter Choir for Contemporary Services
The Christmas Choir was such a success that we’d like to celebrate Easter by joining voices with the Praise Team and Band again and making a “joyful noise” to our risen Lord! We’ll have a brief meeting between contemporary services at 10:15 on March 15th to pass out music and practice CDs. Then we’ll rehearse the next 4 Tuesdays from 6:30 to 7:30, childcare provided. We’ll be learning a song to present during the offering along with songs to lead the congregation in worship. We’ll also take some time for fellowship and prayer. The choir will sing on Easter, April 12, at the 9:00 and 10:30 services. To sign up, contact Melody Sommers: melody.sommers@lumcmo.org; 781-4554 ext. 121.

Music Notes 2/22/209

The Luther College Nordic Choir, one of the top a cappella college choirs in the nation, will perform in the sanctuary of the Liberty United Methodist Church on Monday, March 2, 2009 at 7:30pm. The concert performance by the 75-member Nordic Choir is open to the public, and a free-will offering will be received.
The Liberty UMC concert is part of the Nordic Choir’s tour of the Midwest as they journey to the American Choral Director’s Association National Convention in Oklahoma City. The choir tours annually and has performed in major concert halls in the United States and Central and Eastern Europe.
Dr. Craig Arnold is Director of Choral Activities, Conductor of the Nordic Choir, and Professor of Music at Luther College in Decorah, IA, following the 57-year tenure of Weston Noble.
Don’t miss this great opportunity to hear the Nordic Choir, as they will surely bless our lives with their tremendous choral artistry.

Adult Ministries 2/22/09

When God’s People Pray

Churchwide small group study begins the first week of Lent.

Ways to Register:
Online at www.lumcmo.org
Stop by the sign-up table in the narthex or FLC foyer before or after worship.
Contact Lora Wiles at 781-4554 x111 or Lora.Wiles@lumcmo.org

The study includes DVD teaching and small group discussion. Large group presentations will occur on Monday and Wednesday evening in the Family Life Center. Smaller groups will meet in homes and at the church throughout the week.
Discussion leaders are needed; training will be provided

Small Group Invitations…

Faith Lessons: Bible Stories for Adults is a great group for HIS Kids parents and others who want a quick Bible lesson on Wednesday nights. Come to the Study Center at 6 pm on Wednesdays for a DVD and discussion. Each week is self-contained. No homework is required, but you’re guaranteed to leave hungry for more. You’ll be out in time to pick up your children from HIS Kids.
**********
Curious about the similarities and differences between various Christian denominations? Lighthouse small group invites you to join them on Sunday mornings at 9:45 in Study Center 2 for Christianity’s Family Tree. Cara Pilch facilitates.
**********
Need help identifying your Spiritual Gifts? Join Genesis in the Study Center at 9:45 for Serving From the Heart.
~~~~~~~~
Bible Basics will begin the Study of John this Sunday at 9:30am in Room 224. Cost of the study book is $5.50. Bring your favorite Bible and join Donna Dunn for a great small group experience.

Interested in finding out more about church membership?
Contact Pastor Scott Beard
The next 4-week Newcomer Coffee begins Wednesday, March 4

A Weekend to Remember Straud Brewer is organizing registrations and group discounts for this great Family Life Today marriage weekend conference coming to Overland Park March 13-15 or March 20-22.Follow this link to register and read Straud’s testimony about A Weekend to Rememberhttp://www.familylife.com/groups/brewscrew or
contact Straud at 468-8325 or sbrewer5@kc.rr.com
Limited number of free registrations to those who have lost a job in the last 6 months.
Mission Trip- Each summer LUMY does mission work both locally and around the country.
This summer we are so excited to announce that we are traveling back to New Orleans to continue cleanup. We want to continue to work in that area as long as we feel called and feel that we can help.
This trip is for students that have completed 8th grade-graduated Seniors. We will be going the week of August 1st-8th. If you are interested, let us know and we will be updating you on information as we find out more about cost. This will be our only youth mission “trip” this summer due to camp, Faithworks, VBS, the college mission trip...and the current economic status of our country. We look forward to getting you more information about this trip. Also, don’t forget you always have an opportunity to serve in the Food Kitchen every first Saturday of the month! Let us know if you have any questions.
New Website- LUMY has a sweet website, LUMY.weebly.com. It is updated constantly and you should check it out. You can also link from the main website, Lumcmo.org. We have created a very specific parent information page with “things we think you should know.” Each week we will be updating this page based on current youth culture trends and the news they are making. So check it out each week to stay up with everything LUMY related, from events to youth culture.
30-Hour Famine - It is crazy that this weekend we will be doing our Famine! We are so excited! We would still like to do some work around the Liberty area, and especially help out people who need it. If you know someone who needs some cleaning done, or a yard raked, or gutters emptied and you don’t have the time to help, you can purchase our help for a donation to the 30-hour famine, and we will send a team of capable students out to get the job done on either Thursday evening or Friday morning.

If you would like to make a donation to the cause, you can drop it off at the youth office with checks payable to World Vision. You may also follow the link listed above to donate online. All donations can be tax-deductible.
Thanks so much for supporting LUMY in all we do.

Please contact Sarah Beard at sarah.beard@lumcmo.org or 781-4554 ext 110.
Wednesday- February 25th, is the kickoff of the season of Lent. This is the season (roughly 40 days) leading up to Easter. Our church will have an Ash Wednesday Service that night, so there will be NO BIBLE STUDY on Wednesday, February 25th. I invite you all to come that night and take part in the service.

Here in the Youth office there are a few gentlemen that bring smiles to our faces and brighten our days even when we don’t see them. These 3 men are always encouraging and supporting the youth of this church, and that has not gone unnoticed. We cannot say thank you enough for all you say and do! There are many young men and women who have learned how to be godly and are willing to go and serve by watching you! So here’s to you, Jim Gleason, Kevin Fisher, and Bill Moorefield. When the youth of this church talk about you, they are all smiles and the word love is never absent! Thanks so much for being a constant source of energy to our trips and for giving us reason to want to grow up and be just like you!

Children's Ministries 2/22/09

The Children’s Sunday School lesson for today is a parable and can be found in Luke chapter 12, verses 13-21. A parable is a story Jesus told so people could know how to live. Today’s parable is about a farmer who was greedy; we call him the rich fool. The children will learn how important it is to share our blessings with others.


Here’s an activity you could do at home to demonstrate the parable:
Pop a LARGE bag of popcorn with your child. Put it all in one large zippered plastic bag to keep. Talk to your child about how long it would take him or her to eat that much popcorn. It might get stale before he or she could eat it all. Wouldn’t it be a good idea to share the popcorn? Divide the popcorn into smaller bags so that each family member gets some. Isn’t that what Jesus would like for us to do – share and not be so greedy like the rich farmer in the story?


The Children’s Stewardship Lessons for February have focused on “Our Presence.” When we are present, we receive the building blocks to live a better life! An added bonus . . . we get to see our friends!



Question of the Week
When I read the camp brochure (which is located in the foyer and narthex literature racks, or on-line at www.mocamps.org), how do I know which grade-level camp my child should attend?
All camps should be read as the grade your child will be entering this fall, 2009.

It’s Retreat Time for 4th-and 5th-Graders
Friday eve, March 6 ~ 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm; Saturday, March 7 ~ 10:00 am to 5:00 pm; Sunday morning, March 8 ~ 9:00 Sunday School
Come and have a crazy good time with a
College Student Ministry Team from
Asbury College!
Games, crazy good music, junk food (and good food!), awesome Bible lessons on How God Uses Imperfect People, off-campus trip, worship, fabulous fun . . . all at the Study Center with college students!
Preregistration needed. Call or e-mail Sondra Buell (contact information above) and reserve your spot!

Thanks to all the parents who brought their “HIS Kids” kids to the Concert of Choirs last Sunday. It was delightful! God bless you each and every one for sharing through this gift of music!

“HIS Kids” will release early at 6:45 p.m. on February 25th for the Ash Wednesday Service. We encourage families to attend this sensory and meaningful service. Nursery care for children birth to kindergarten will be available during the service.