Athens First United Methodist Church e-Steeple

Making Disciples of Jesus Christ


 

Traditional Service in the Sanctuary  

8:30 a.m. 

9:45 a.m.

11:00 a.m.

 

Church-wide Fellowship

9:30 a.m. (Hancock Hall)  

 

Sunday School

9:45 a.m. 

 

Martha Aenchbacher Preaching   

January 15:

"The Next Day"

John 1:43-51 

 

Anthem:  

8:30 Service 

"I Have Decided to Follow Jesus"

S. Sundar Singh

9:45/11:00 Services

"Eternal Light, Shine in My Heart"
K. L. Scott

 

 

Online web streaming now available for our 11 a.m. Sunday service.  Visit our website for details. www.athensfirstumc.org 

  

Our 11 a.m. Sunday Service is broadcast on WRFC 960 AM each Sunday and online at www.960theref.com.   

 

January Ushers

(8:30) Jim Belger, Ann Brown, Paul Brown, Don Crews, Larry Deal, Hugh Larkey, Jim Lyons, Candler Meadors, Olan Moore, Bob Noble, Grace Rabek, Ken Reece, Keith Wilson 

(9:45) Chris Bostdorff, David and Jane Disney, Mark Ellison, Tom Milton, Sharon Milton, Marvin Reynolds, Al Rogers, Bill Trigleth, Dave Matthews

(11:00)  Lee Brinson, Ryan Brinson, Nathan King, John Bateman, Claude Felton, Steve Greer, Mack Furlow, Josh Brooks, Jim Lyons

 

Offering Stewards

Bob Booth & Charlie Grimes (co-chairs); Nat Belger, Charles Braucher, Nat Carmack, Henry Garrard, Nathan King, Al Hawley, Sean Rogers, Charlie Upchurch III

 

First Light Acolytes  

(8:30) SaraCatherine Pennell, Robert Keene, Jacob Hudson
(9:45) Alley Howell,
Mary Mason McWhorter, Caroline Block

(11:00) Will Cunningham,
Jack Chambers, Seth Taylor

   

 

 

OUR CLERGY

Chuck Hodges

Senior Minister

 

Martha Aenchbacher

Minister of Program

 

John Page

Minister of Discipleship

 

Eric Fessler

Minister of Families with Youth

 

Visit our website:

www.athensfirstumc.org  

 

   

January 15, 2012



What's in a Name?

Names can be quite powerful, colorful and encouraging. Jesus' name reveals much about who he is:
            
Alpha. Author of Life. Rock. Redeemer. Savior. Lord. Prince of Peace. Strength. Shield. Strong Tower. Counselor. Jehovah Rafa (Healer). Everlasting King. King of Kings. Deliverer. Comforter. Yahweh. Most High. El Shaddai. Elohim.

             
The Great I AM. Creator of the Universe. Great Physician. Mighty Breadmaker. Holy One of Israel. Lord of Lords. Merciful Judge. Forgetter of Sins. Judean Lion. Jehovah Jira (Provider). Mighty God. Lamb of God. Lord of Hosts. Peace Giver. The Defender. One in the line of Solomon. God of Abraham. God of Isaac. God of Jacob. God of David.

           
Stable Glow. Gesu Bambino. Emmanuel. Manger Baby. Reason for the Season. Reason for Living. Angel's Muse. Glory Incarnate. Bethlehem Night Light. Blessed. Son of Mary. Son of Joseph. John the Baptist's Cousin. Relative of Rahab. Dove's Resting Place. Anointed One. Burden Bearer. John the Baptist's Answer. Tax Collector's Companion. Zaccheus' Dinner Guest. God as Man. Living Water. Story Teller. Wise Man. Brother. Carpenter. Fisher of Men. Wine-maker. Ophthalmologist. Feeder of Thousands. Podiatrist. Lazarus' Wake-up Call. Dermatologist. Calmer of Storms. Speech Pathologist. Wave-walker. Exorcist. Shepherd.

             
Spotless Lamb. The Way. The Truth. The Life. Password to the Father. Son of God. Son of Man. The Word. True Friend. Teacher. Prophet. Leader. Preacher. Potter. Master. Mansion Maker. Preparer of our Place. Almighty. Vine. Servant. Bread of Life. The Transfigured. Foot Washer. Restorer of Life. Pilate's King of the Jews. Messiah. Beaten and Flogged One. Thief's Invitation to Paradise. Golgotha's Ornament. The Pierced One. Shedder of Blood. The Crucified. Obedient Son. Cleansing Agent. The Risen One. Paul's Driving Force.

             
Helper. Holy One. Precious. Triune God. Faithful Friend. God's Right Hand Man. Cares-of-the-World Catcher. Victor over Temptation. Fulfiller of the Law. Rest to the Weary. Giver of Rest. Sharer of the Yoke. Our All in All. The Soon-Coming King. The Winner of the Battle. Omega!

            
Who is Jesus to you?  Who do you need Jesus Christ to be for you right now?  He is all you will ever need. Christ is all we could ever want.


John

P.S.  Still looking for many more responses to the question at www.wheredoyouseegod.com.


MEMBER NEWS  

 

In Memoriam

Joe Memory

January 4, 2012  

  

Sympathy

Heartfelt Christian sympathy is extended to:     

Jean Memory and family in the loss of her husband, Joe Memory, on January 4 in Athens, Georgia.

Brian and Kevin Brodrick and family in the loss of their mother, Martha Brodrick, on January 5 in Athens, Georgia.

Heather Rutherford and family in the loss of her father, Michael Curl, in Snellville, Georgia.       

 

New Arrival 

Congratulations to:

Tim and Rebecca McCord on the birth of their son, Aidan Stuart, on December 31. Aidan is the grandson of Mike and Kay McCord.   

 

Altar Flowers

The flowers on the altar on January 15 are given to the glory of God and in loving memory of Jo and Clarence Berryman by Janice and Earl Smith and the grandchildren, Stephen and Jason, and their familes.  

 

FELLOWSHIP ANNOUNCEMENT


WYC Logo 22
012 Variety Show: Disney Magic!
Come enjoy the Wesleyan Youth Choir's 2012 Variety Show on Sunday, February 19 at 5:00 p.m. in Hancock Hall. It's free and fun for the whole family! A love offering will be taken to support the WYC Summer Choir Trips. Bring your friends and family - it's going to be Magical!! Contact Janis Maxwell, janis@athensfirstumc.org, to make a contribution or volunteer your time.  Thanks!

Senior Fun
Anyone 55 and older is invited to join the Senior Fun Group!  They will meet January 26 at 12:30 p.m. for a delicious lunch and entertaining program.  The cost is $6. R.S.V.P. to the church office by noon on Monday, January 23, 706-543-1442.

Fitness Classes
Ready to get those New Year's resolutions off to a great start? Join us for the Burn, Firm, and Learn fitness class Tuesday's from 9:00-10:00 a.m. And Pilates on Wednesday's from 5:15-6:00 p.m. Please contact Rusty, rusty@athensfirstumc.org, or Katy Brodrick for additional information.

Women's Ministry: Renee Swope, A Confident Heart, January 28
Don't miss Renee Swope of Proverbs 31 Ministries who will be the featured speaker for our upcoming in-town, day tetreat on January 28.  The day will be filled with Renee's teaching from her new book, A Confident Heart, as well as worship, topical breakout sessions, lunch, and fellowship.  The event will be held in Hancock Hall, 8:30 - 3:00, and the cost is $10 (includes lunch and materials).   Register today online, www.athensfirstumc.org, or by phone, 706-543-1442.  Contact Julie Caldwell,jpowell@negia.net with questions.  For more information, visit www.athensfirstumc.org/afumcwomensmain.html.

Men's Retreat
Join us in Toccoa for a great weekend, February 17-19. Our featured speaker will be Joe Gibbs (NFL, NASCAR) via video, as well as other high profile men. The cost is $150. Register online today at www.athensfirstumc.org. Deadline to sign up is January 27. Contact Mason McWhorter, masonmc@bellsouth.net, or Ryan Brinson, ryanbrinson@hotmail.com for more information.

Preschool Registration Has Started!  

We would love to have your child(ren) be part of our preschool family.  The deadlines for registration are January 20 (currently enrolled), January 23 (church enrollment), and January 24 (community enrollment). Registration forms can be downloaded at www.athensfirstumc.org/afumcpreschool.html.  If you have any questions or would like a tour, please contact Linsey Jarrett, Director, linsey@athensfirstumc.org or Kasay Rabon, Assistant Director, kasay@athensfirstumc.org, or 706-543-2427.

Winter Beth Moore Bible Study - The Patriarchs
This is a study of Genesis 12-50, looking at God's pursuit of a relationship with man.  This 10-week study begins on January 11, and there are two sessions available, 9:30 - 11:30 a.m. and 12:30 - 2:30 p.m.  Ladies, please still join this study if you are interested!  Contact Janet Strickland, jstrickland@bellsouth.net or 678-910-0039.

New Men's Study - Not a Fan
Based on the engaging approach of Kyle Idleman, this men's small-group study-Not a Fan-examines what it means to deny oneself and truly follow Jesus.  The 6-week study begins January 11, but men are still invited to join.  For more information contact Keith Wilson, 706-549-2199, kwilson99@charter.net.  Register online, cost is $8.

Date Correction for James Study
The Beth Moore Bible Study, James, will meet on Wednesdays, not Thursdays, from 1-3 p.m. beginning Wednesday, January 18.  Contact Lisa Huggins to sign up, huggins3036@bellsouth.net.

DISCIPLESHIP AND MISSIONS

 
January Agape 
From January 16 to 31, take your gently used coats and jackets to Masada Leather and Outdoor (238 E. Clayton St., Athens, www.masadaleather.com) and receive $10 off your next purchase of $50 or more (coupon is also valid during their annual winter sale).  All useful coats and jackets will be given to those in need in our local community.  Your donation will help keep folks warm this winter.  This is a joint effort of Athens FUMC Missions and Masada Leather and Outdoor. If you have questions, please contact John Page, johnp@athensfirstumc.org .

Save the Date!

Great Day of Service will focus locally on Saturday, April 21. Mark your calendar for this great opportunity! Contact Jon Mills, jon@mills.net.

Souper Suppers
Souper Suppers are hot meals served every Thursday in Hancock Hall to folks in our community.  Your family, class or group can cook and serve the meal, interact and talk with our guests, and clean up. Contact Glenda Greenhaw, ggreenha@yahoo.com, for more information or to volunteer.

     

BIBLE STUDY AND LEARNING OPTIONS 

 
Winter Beth Moore Bible Study - The Patriarchs
This is a study of Genesis 12-50, looking at God's pursuit of a relationship with man.  This 10-week study begins on January 11, and there are two sessions available, 9:30 - 11:30 a.m. and 12:30 - 2:30 p.m.  Ladies, please still join this study if you are interested!  Contact Janet Strickland, jstrickland@bellsouth.net or 678-910-0039.

New Men's Study - Not a Fan
Based on the engaging approach of Kyle Idleman, this men's small-group study-Not a Fan-examines what it means to deny oneself and truly follow Jesus.  The 6-week study begins January 11, but men are still invited to join.  For more information contact Keith Wilson, 706-549-2199, kwilson99@charter.net.  Register online, cost is $8.

Date Correction for James Study 
The Beth Moore Bible Study, James, will meet on Wednesdays, not Thursdays, from 1-3 p.m. beginning Wednesday, January 18. Cost is $20.  Contact Lisa Huggins to sign-up, huggins3036@bellsouth.net

A MESSAGE FOR YOU...TH! 


January 15   *NEW SUNDAY NIGHT SCHEDULE 

9:45 a.m.             First Word

4:30 p.m.             WYC Combined Choir 
                              Sunday Night Youth Staff Meeting 
5:45-6:15 p.m.   Snack Supper 
6:15-7:30 p.m.   Encounter - Youth Area

This Week...January 16 - January 22
Tuesday, January 17     

7:00 p.m.             Boy Scouts Troop 1 (Saye Scout Hut)

Wednesday, January 18  

7:30 a.m.              Breakfast @ Beechwood Chick-Fil-A

4:30 p.m.              Youth Area Open 
5:30 p.m.              Dinner Downtown 
6:30 p.m.              Mid/Sr. High Bible Study

Upcoming...
January 22- Full Youth Staff Meeting


 CONGRATULATIONS 2012 CONFIRMANDS!2012 Confirmation Class

 

 Delia Love Adamson  
 Hannah Hope Bard  
 William Michael Nelson Beeson  
 Mason Bivins
 Anna Marian Block  
 James Taylor Boswell, III  
 Colby Anne Buttrick  
 Drew Byus
 Stephanie Janelle Cannon  
 Isabelle Elise Channell  
 Mark Anthony Channell, Jr.  
 Toby Nicholas Chapeau  
 Glynn Francis Chesser
 James Gladstone Chesser
 Joseph Miller Colley  
 Dustin Atkins DeMersseman  
 Jeffrey Todd Donnan, Jr.  
 Emily Lynn Elder  
 Katherine Ann Elizabeth English  
 Parker Fox  
 Lucy Clayton Frierson  
 Morgan Elizabeth Griggs  
 Ansley Elizabeth Hardeman  
 Turner Patterson Hargrave  
 Emily Burnett Harris  
 Connor Reinhold Hatch  
 William Steven Haugabook, III  
 Joseph Higginbotham  
 Charles Redwine Hurst  
 Millican Dennis Jarrett  
 Margaret Ferrell Jordan  
 Caroline Isabelle Kuhnert  
 Chloe Elizabeth McCullough  
 Carolyn Elaine McElroy  
 Martha Katherine Mayfield  
 Crawford Stephen Miller  
 Annie Reed Miller  
 Mary Katherine Morris  
 Candler Stephen Murphey  
 Anna Elizabeth Newland  
 Kasana Grace Page  
 Mary-Collins Pearson  
 Caroline Carden Pearson  
 Parker James Pennell  
 Kathleen Phillips  
 Hayden Elizabeth Reid
 Mackenzie Elizabeth Satterfield  
 Emmaline Reynolds Smith  
 Marcus Edward Tarver-Smith  
 Margaret Allyn Timberlake  
 Mary Carroll Waller  
 Laura McNeal Wilfong  
 Hope Elizabeth Wilson  
 Maria Leslie Winstead  

 

NURSERY PARENT HELPERS                        


  January 15
   Crawlers/Walkers: HELP NEEDED
   Walkers/Toddlers: HELP NEEDED
   Early 2's: Tyler and Bethany Davis
   2-Year-Olds: Sarah and Russ Bennett
   3-Year-Olds: Jill and Tom Reichert
   4-Year-Olds: Nancy and Mark Dyleski


CALENDAR

 

Click here to view the online calendar! 

 

Lectionary Calendar

Sunday, January 15:   1 Samuel 3:1-10 (11-20)  

   

Monday, January 16:  Psalm 139:1-6, 13-18            

 

Tuesday, January 17:  1 Corinthians 6:12-20      

 

Wednesday, January 18:  John 1:43-51     

 

Thursday, January 19:  Isaiah 22:15-25          

 

Friday, January 20: 1 Kings 19:19-21       

 

Saturday, January 21:  Isaiah 49:1-7    

 

ATTENDANCE


January 8             

Sunday School: 551 

8:30 a.m.: 143
9:45 a.m.: 544
11:00 a.m.: 947
Total Worship Services: 1,634         

FINANCIAL REPORT 

 

Budget for 2011:  $2,339,129

Giving goal throughDecember 2011: $2,339,129   
Amount Received for 2011: $2,448,093
Amount received through December:  $405,010

Giving Goal for December:  $407,213

Debt reduction goal for 2011:  $100,000

Trustee debt reduction year-to-date:  $245,137

Current Bank Loan(s) Debt:  $1,628,644