Christmas Stockings for Deployed Soldiers
CPT John Monahan, one of the chaplains for a battalion at Hunter Army Airfield has asked our church to help him provide Christmas stockings for his soldiers. There are 800-900 soldiers in his battalion, and we have agreed to provide items for 100 stockings. The unit is preparing for a year long deployment this fall. The stockings will be prepared overseas-we have been asked to send items to put in the stockings as well as a note of encouragement (unsealed as they may be screened).  A complete list may be found on the table in the hallway outside the church office or visit the church website at www.iohumc.com. Please place items and letters in the marked boxes in the hallway by Sunday, September 27th. Thank you.
Grading Prison Papers
Every Wednesday evening from 5:15-6:00PM, we will grade prison papers in the Conference room. A grading key and personal instruction will be provided. These tests are from inmates enrolled in a Christ-centered ministry through the Coastal Jail and Prison Ministries in the Chatham County Detention Center. If you are free any Wednesday, come help provide encouragement to our new brothers in Christ.
New Covenant UMC
New Covenant UMC, formerly Epworth UMC on Bull and 38th Street is undergoing revitalization. Rev. Andrew Young, the pastor at New Covenant Church, has asked IOHUMC to "share" several members of the congregation to be "Urban Missionaries" at New Covenant. The Urban Missionaries "would commit to 3-6 months of regular attendance, service and planning to aid in the foundational development of ministry at New Covenant Church." The average age of the congregation at New Covenant is 77 years of age. Rev. Young has a great vision for the church, but to make it happen will require people of all ages, races and skills. Rev. Young is looking for assistance in all ministries within the church-from greeters, to leading Sunday school to serving on the Finance Committee. This is a great opportunity for our church family to "grow the Kingdom" outside the walls of Isle of Hope UMC. If you would like to know more about serving at NCC, please contact Julie. Please keep New Covenant in your prayers. 
The Friends n' Needles Prayer Shawl Group will meet again on Thursday, September 24 and Thursday, October 8 from 11am until 2pm in preparation for our Fashion Show on Monday, October 26. Lunch will be served. The group has decided to make contributions to The Christ Child's Nest, OFCB Ministries in Haiti, Wesley Community Centers and The Emmanuel Center from the proceeds of the sale of our handmade items. We'll not only have things for women, but children and babies as well this year.
 
                                                                                   Julie