Kane District “This Week”
All those affected by the events in Manchester
Tammy Hay, Connellsville District Administrative Assistant
Bishop Cynthia Moore-KoiKoi & Cabinet in this appointment season–
Those still in need of help in Connellsville
Larry Bridge
Paul Sliker
Bill BeattyPlease remember Bill Beatty in your prayers. He has been tentatively diagnosed with chronic myeloid leukemia.
JOYS
Upcoming Dates of Interest
May 26- 27: Yard/Bake Sale Greenwood UMC
May 30-June 2: Chris vacation
June 8 – 11: Annual Conference – Grove City
June 10: Duke Center annual Chicken BBQ 11:00a
July 2: Strawberry Festival Greenwood UMC 10 a.m.
July 22: Kane District Family Picnic Evergreen Park, Kane
July 27 – 30: Mission u 4 day Event California University of Pa: Youth and Children’s School
August 7: UMWDistrict Leadership Team Meeting – Olmsted Manor
August 12: Old Home Day Greenwood UMC
LAY MEMBERS AND EQUALIZATION
Members to Annual Conference 2017:Be sure to registerat Registration Nowon the Conference website. Find the link at wpaumc.org/AC.
FOR PASTORS:
Please login to the Church dashboard immediately to make sure the contact information is correct for both the clergy and laity going from the church to annual conference. Especially make sure the 2017 Lay Member to Annual Conference start dates are current in the church dashboard. While online, the readers might as well correct the data on the local church’s entire leadership. If someone is unaware of the login information for the church dashboard, then contact the District Office.
CLERGY IN TRANSITION:
Bill, Lori, Rachel, & Eliana Beatty from Corry: First to Warren: Grace
Benjamin & Susan Zimmerman from Greensburg: Otterbein to Allegany Headwaters
Nate & Holly Fugate & son, Israel from Lakeside UMC DuBois to Pittsfield: Otterbein
Erica Wellner from Warren: Grace & Covenant to Marion Center U.M.C.
Richard Pearson from Warren: Grace to Kantner U.M. C., Stoystown
Steve & Elizabeth Gruver from Pittsfield: Otterbein to Windover Hills U.M.C., Pittsburgh
Randy & Barb Headley from Allegany Headwaters to Retirement
Jon & Nettie Swart from Warren: First to Retirement
Lola Turnbull from Benezette Charge to East Brady/Sligo
Ralph & Mary Cupl from retirement to Warren: Covenant
ONLINE LAY SEVANT MINISTRIES ADVANCED COURSES
Offered by BeADisciple.com —Schedule of classesSee full list of upcoming webinars atgbod.org/webinars
Birthdays:MAY:28th Nadene Howard, 29th Lola Turnbull, 29th Jackson Bell
JUNE: 5th Marty Reynolds, 10th Sue Aul, 16th Jason Blystone, 23rd Valerie Pearson,
23rd Mark Hurst, 25th Craig Smith, 25th Nettie Swart,
Anniversaries:JUNE: 3rd Nadene & LaVerne Howard, 4th Sandy & Bob Howles,
10th Chris & Ron Groeger, 18th Janice & Bob George, 27th Kristen & Ernie Perry
MAY
CLERGY EVALUATIONCONTINUING EDUCATION REPORT & ANNUAL PARSONAGE INSPECTION
Due in the District Office by Monday,May 15th.
NEW – GREENWOOD YARD/BAKE SALE
Friday and Saturday May 26 & 27 beginning at 10a.m. both days. Fresh homemade baked goods will be available for purchase. Browse the yard sale, you may find a treasure or two. All proceeds benefit the upkeep of the Greenwood church
INFORMATIONAL UPDATES
NEW - MISSION OF PEACE
Each year a group of youth and young adults from the Northeastern Jurisdiction travel shortly after Christmas on a Mission of Peace to another area of the globe. Applications are available now for the 2018 MOP to Cuba. It’s scheduled from about December 28, 2017- January 12, 2018. Applications are due to Greg Cox by Feb. 1, 2017.Get application.
LEADERSHIP AND FUNDRAISING
Greetings from GBHEM in Nashville! Could you please assist in spreading the word throughout your conference? We are promoting and looking for folks to register for our upcoming program, Leadership and Fundraising, with Dr. G. Douglass Lewis. The course is easily available, which is found on UMC Cyber Campus or by clicking the first story in our UM Continuing Education News e-newsletter, at
Kind Regards,Joshua P. Hestand, MBA, Coordinator, Clergy Lifelong Learning & UMC Cyber Campus, Division of Ordained Ministry, General Board of Higher Education & Ministry Office: (615)
RELIGION AND RACE ANNOUNCES 2017 CORR ACTION FUND GRANT
The General Commission on Religion and Race (GCORR), The United Methodist Church's racial justice agency, announced that the CORR Action Fund (CAF) will be releasing the United States Program Grants for 2017-2020 with $750,000 in available funding. Applications will be accepted starting May of 2017 with a deadline of August 2017.
GCORR is seeking to fund innovative and bold initiatives that will support vital conversations about race, cultural diversity, xenophobia, and systemic equity.
UMC churches and other UMC entities in the United States are invited to apply for funding to disrupt racism and xenophobia by working with a community partner or alliance.Learn more about the CORR Action Fund grant here.
KANE DISTRICT HERE & THERE PROJECT;
Zaka East Sanctuary, Zimbabe and Ruth M. Smith Home
To support the projects donations are sent to:
The United Methodist Center 1204 Freedom Rd. PO Box 5002 Cranberry Twp., PA 16066-02204
Use #ZIMKA on your check for support to Zaka East Project & on Ruth M. Smith Center #00110
Kane District Ramps Ministry
We serve those with a short or long term need for a ramp to safely enter and exit their homes and have no other funding source.
We provide semi-permanent ramps that can be relocated if the recipient no longer needs the ramp
We are funded through offerings from participating churches, private donations, grants and fund raisers.
Rick Nelson 563-4351 or Chris Swanson 945-6975 or . Donations can be sent to the Kane District Office mark as ramp donation
Thanks to the Congregations of; Warren:First, Shinglehouse , Barnes Sugar Grove, Russell, Evans Memorial, Port Allegany Christian and Missionary Alliance Church
Thanks to;Tim & Kelley Roff, Dotty Louise Christy
SCHOLARSHIPS FOR CHRISTIAN UNITY WORKSHOP:
The Council of Bishops offers scholarships for young adult (age 18-25) first-time participants to attend the National Workshop on Christian Unity and United Methodist Ecumenical and Inter-religious Training.Learn more.
UMC SCHOLARSHIPS
There are a variety of scholarships at
2017 CONFERENCE VIM TEAM
Find out how to apply for a team and see new teams as they are announced at wpaumc.org/opportunities.Costs include travel, housing, most meals and VIM insurance.
VIM
NEW - VEHICLE NEEDED
The Eastbrook Mission Barn is in the market for a vehicle to pull its trailer when installing ramps; looking for a used vehicle with at least a one-ton towing capacity for a good price or donation. If you have one or know of one,contact Katie Peterson at or 724-856-8241.
2017 CONFERENCE VIM TEAMS
Are being scheduled. They will be shared via Conference communications and listed online at wpaumc.org/opportunities
Contact Rev. Stephanie Gottschalk at or 724-776-2300 ext 241
JUNE
NEW – NICARAGUAN UNITED METHODIST PRESIDENT
June 4th Warren: First will host Pastor Reuben Zeledon
Pastor Zeledon will be here for 2 weeks and is willing to participate in an event for your church or group. Contact Warren: First for more information.
ANNUAL CONFERENCE JUNE 8-11, 2017 INFORMATION
REMINDER
All pastors are expected to be present for all plenary sessions and worship services of our Annual Conference Session at Grove City College.You may be especially interested to know that I received an email from the Conference Sessions committee stating that the reading of the appointments for the Kane District is scheduled for Saturday, June 10th during the 9:-11:30AM Plenary Session.
NEW - ANNUAL CONFERENCE 2017:
Some things will be different, particularly for laity, at AC2017, scheduled for June 8-11 at Grove City College. On Thursday morning, a single interactive laity session led by District and Conference lay leaders and lay servants will be offered. Keep up with new information and registration info on our Annual Conference 2017 webpage wpaumc.org/AC.
NEW – PARAGRAGH 4, ARTICLE 4:
Annual Conference members will be asked to vote on ratification of a proposed amendment to the denomination’s Constitution that was approved by the 2016 General Conference. Learn more about it.
NEW - WPAUMC and P4:
Rev. Bob Zilhaver, a member of the General Commission on the Status and Role of Women, had a hand in crafting the amendment. Both he and Bishop Cynthia Moore-Koikoi talked about it at a celebration of clergy rights for women. Read more.
NEW - PRE – CONFERENCE JOURNAL:
The 2017 Pre-Conference Journal, containing legislation, reports and other official documents for the June 8-11 annual conference session is online. To see it, use the linksat wpaumc.org/AC .
ORIENTATION TO MINISTRY
Registration is open for the Wednesday, June 7 Orientation to Ministryat Grove City College. Open to anyone seeking information on the various types of set-apart ministry within the UMC, itis required for anyone pursuing licensed or ordained ministry. Get details
THE CLERGY SPOUSE ASSOCIATION BRUNCH
Annual Conference at Grove City College will be on Thursday, June 8th.
UNITED METHODIST WOMEN (UMW) DINNER AT ANNUAL CONFERENCE
Friday, June 9 - 5:00 pm. Cost is $5.00. Registration will be online or by contacting Linda Thayer (724-882-6174 ) or Diane Miller (814-498-2308
HELP FLOAT THE BOAT !
The 2017 Annual Conference session will offer an opportunity for churches and groups to help launch our new At the LakeMinistriesfor persons with disabilities. As donations come in, equivalent amounts of water will be added to a large tank with a replica vessel in the Conference display area. Download a Float the Boat brochure with details.
RETIRING OR HAD A CHANGE IN SIZE
Please consider donating your robes, clerical shirts/blouses, and stoles to the pastors in Zimbabwe. They greatly appreciate receiving these items. Also, check your library of books and ask your congregations for the following material: choir robes and paraments (in good shape), Commentaries, Biblical Studies, Church History, World Religions, Philosophy, Devotionals, Bibles
Please bring to the TNC (The Nyadire Connection) Zimbabwe tables at Annual Conference and give to Diane Welty or April Plants.Please do not send books that are really old and worn, yellowed, and no copyright dates before 1980’s (This still makes the books almost 40 years old—doesn’t take long for those years to fly by!)
Tatenda! Thank you!
CLERGY SPOUSE BRUNCH:
Essential Pieces in the Puzzle of LIfe is the theme for the Thursday, June 9 Clergy Spouse Brunch at annual conference. Get details.
AC2017 Leadership Day Teachers Named:
The Rev. Dr. Dawn Chesser and the Rev. Dr. L. Roger Owens will be the teachers for the 2017 Leadership Day on Wednesday, June 7 at Grove City College. The sessions are open to clergy and laity. Workshops will be offered on worship and spiritual formation; clergy and laity will be able to choose the one that will most strengthen their leadership development. Mark your calendar now and plan to attend! Watch for more details later! Teacher information.
THE WORSHIP WARDROBE:
As part of the pre-Annual Conference Leadership Day, the Rev. Dr. Dawn Chesser of Discipleship Ministries will offer training tied to the AC theme WPAUMC Chic. Those who choose her course will explore how forming a worship team and that model of worship planning adds flair and style to our worship of God. Pastors and their laity are encouraged to attend as a team. Get details.
SPIRITUAL; LEADERSHIP FOR EVERYONE:
Leadership isn’t just for the people standing at the front of the room or in positions of authority. In the Leadership Day workshop with Dr. Roger Owens, participants will explore ways that anyone can practice spiritual leadership wherever they are. Learn more.
BOTH SETS OF WORKSHOPS
1 - 9 p.m. on June 7 at Grove City College. Register using the Annual Conference 2017 online registration link at wpaumc.org/AC.
SHUTTLE DRIVERS NEEDED:
Volunteers are needed to drive shuttles from Wednesday, June 7 through Sunday, June 11 during Annual Conference at Grove City College. Volunteers must have a valid driver’s license. Depending on the number of volunteers, shifts may only be two or three hours each day. Contact Rev. Arnie McFarland at r 814-445-2577, or send your contact info to him at Calvary UMC, 239 W. Church Street, Somerset PA 15501.
LUGGAGE PORTERS NEEDED:
The AC Hospitality Team is looking for Boy Scout troops or other youth groups in the Grove City area who might volunteer to help people carry their luggage into the Grove City College dormitories. Help will be needed on Wednesday, June 7 from 9 am- 3 pm and Thursday, June 8 from 7 am – 12 noon. To volunteer, email Rev. Arnie McFarland at or call 814-445-2577.
BE A SECTION LEADER
Adults and Senior High youth are invited to serve as section leaders at the 2017 Annual Conference session from June 8-11 at Grove City College. Section leaders do not have to be elected conference members to serve in this ministry. Learn more.
NEED SPACE
To request space for a special meal or gathering during annual conference, download the appropriate form, complete it and email it to Barb . Download meal request form Downloadmeeting room request form
NOTICE TO PASTORS: COLLECTION FOR ZIM CLERGY:
If you are retiring or have had a change in size, please consider donating your robes, clerical shirts/blouses, and stoles to the pastors in Zimbabwe. They greatly appreciate receiving these items. Also, check your library and ask your congregations for the following materials: choir robes and paraments (in good shape), Commentaries, Biblical Studies, Church History, World Religions, Philosophy, Devotionals, Bibles. Please do not send books that are really old and worn, yellowed, and no copyright dates before 1980’s.Please bring to the TNC (The Nyadire Connection) Zimbabwe tables at Annual Conference and give to Diane Welty or April Plants.
DUKE CENTER ANNUAL CHICKEN BBQ
The annual BBQ which is held in conjunction with Duke Center’s garage sale day begins at 11:00a.m till sold out on June 10.
NEW - WESBURY’S 17th ANNUAL SENIOR & FRIENDS GOLF SCRAMBLE
Thursday, June 15th with a 10 am shotgun start. Continental breakfast, boxed lunch and picnic buffet dinner. The Wesbury Foundation: 814-332-9712.
UNSTOPPABLE 2017
Olmsted Manor, 17 East Main St, Ludlow, PA 16333. This is a change in location. The Olmsted Manor retreat center is filled with activities such as bowling and a landscape to intrigue the nature lovers. Registration begins at 1:00 on Friday June 16 and the weekend of spiritual growth, learning and community with others will last until Sunday, June18. The focus of this year’s event is “From the Bottom Up,” which will inspire young women with the topics: organization, successfulness and world issues. Find us at or follow us on Facebook and Twitter by searching @umwunstoppable.
NEW – JAM
A week-long camp at Jumonville that allows youth and adults with cognitive impairments to experience a Christian summer event. Activities include the adventure center, archery; ropes challenge course, white water rafting (Middle Youth, class 1-2 rapids, some 3’s), swimming, cookouts, and more. Volunteers are needed to assist with crafts, music, sports, and more. One day or stay the week: meals and room are included. This is a great opportunity for teachers, students and retirees to enjoy the ‘great outdoors’ and to give back! Training provided. All volunteers must have or be willing to obtain clearances. Dates are June 18-25. Call Bev Roscoe with any questions 724-466-2102 or .
JULY
NEW - GREENWOOD STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL
July 2nd is the annual Strawberry Festival at Greenwood UMC. It begins at 10:00 a.m. This event is a major fund raiser for the church. Monies raised helps with the upkeep of the church building.
Life-Changing Men’s Gathering
About 1,000 men are expected to come together for workshops, worship, service and fellowship at the National Gathering of United Methodist Men on July 7-8. Held at St. Luke’s United Methodist Church in Indianapolis, the event will inspire attendees to embrace new possibilities for ministry and discipleship. Learn more. Go to UMM event website
CHURCH OFFICE PROFESSIONALS' RETREAT
July 9-11, 2016: This retreat is designed for those brave souls who serve our churches and ministries in administrative roles. Our church administrators constantly pour into the lives of others; now it's their turn to be replenished. You are invited to spend time away from the office and in fellowship with people who understand why you need a break! MORE INFORMATION
RED BIRD FAMILY TEAM
July 9-15, 2017
UTH4MISSION
Summer 2017: Hands on service, worship and fellowship for Youth grades 6 -12 at Pitt at Johnstown. Estimated cost: $275. July 10-14th New this year is a commuter rate!Join us as we serve the Johnstown community through work and outreach projects.Contact Amanda Gilligan at the conference center with questions.
MISSIONU
July 2017: Service and learning for Kids, Teens & Adults at Cal U.
YOUTH 2019
The next national gathering of United Methodist youth will be July 10-14, 2019, in Kansas City, Missouri. Young People’s Ministries, a division of Discipleship Ministries, is announcing details of the event to give churches time to plan for their youth to attend. The national gathering for United Methodist youth takes place every four years. Read press release
OLDER ADULT RETREAT
Olmsted ManorJuly 17-21, 2017 (Mon. dinner – Friday lunch)
Theme: “Stained Glass Windows: Letting God’s Holy Spirit Shine!”
Deans: Mrs. Lois Hiles and Mrs. Glenda Merritt
Bible Teacher: Rev. Bruce K. Merritt
Music Director: Robin Swank
Cost: Tuition: $16.00 + Room and Board: $264 = $280 Price includes class, 4 nights stay, 12 meals, evening entertainmentCamperships available for first time attenders!
For more information:
Olmsted Manor
P.O. Box 8, Ludlow, Pa. 16333814-945-6512
,
Glenda and Bruce Merritt