Greetings! 
Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others. Philippians 2:3-4 NIV
As I stood in line at the grocery store this week, I scanned the magazines on display and reflected on how far from Paul's instructions our culture has strayed. We celebrate and reward selfish ambition; we are obsessed with vain conceit. People consider themselves better than others if they have more money, or are more attractive, or have attained a higher level of education.
Luckily, many people reject that kind of thinking. They recognize the gifts God has given them and turn to look toward the interests of others. Those are the people, YOU are the people, who donate to UMCM. You are the people who volunteer with us. You are the people who cheer us on and pray for us. We couldn't do the work we do without you.
I hope you'll enjoy learning more about that work in this edition of the e-news. The new program year is off to a great start!
Grace and Peace,
Pamela Qualls
|
 New Feeding Ministry Opens
Lealman United Methodist Church hosted its first free dinner on October 1, 2009. Kay Tillinghast, coordinator, reports, "Since this is the only evening meal offered in the area...
|
 Mission Connection
First United Methodist Church of Clearwater and the Pinellas County Coalition for the
Homeless are sponsoring a Cold Night Shelter for homeless families at the
church. Anytime the overnight temperature is predicted to drop below 40
degrees, the shelter is open for families that are living on the
streets. A hot meal is served and warm beds are provided. Volunteers are needed. Call Lewis Hill (727) 446-5595.
Click here for more...
|
Children of the World Preschool
What could be more fun for a toddler than stomping around in the dirt? Picking out your own pumpkin! A big thank you goes to Allendale United Methodist Church, Christ UMC, and Clearview UMC for providing vans and drivers to get the little ones to the pumpkin patch.
Of course, that's not all that's going on!
|
 Ditty Bag Collection and United
Methodist Women District Annual Meeting
Click here for more on Ditty Bags... |
 Volunteer Spotlight
We're so excited to shine the spotlight for this month on Betsy Kenas, one of our most passionate Ambassadors. She has worked tirelessly to bring new volunteers into our programs and donations to help us grow our ministries. And she makes some pretty amazing cookies, too!
Click here for more... |
First Volunteer Luncheon
Treat yourself to lunch and gather with other volunteers who share your passion for UMCM programs. UMCM Staff will join us to honor the Volunteer of the Month.
When: October 30, 11:30 am
Click here for more...
|
 Families Learning Together
Couples at our Union Street Family Learning Center resumed fall classes with a popular curriculum that helps them build healthy relationships. |
