Mt. Bethel UMC

 

 April 6, 2014

 

Randy Mickler In the summer of 1934, a theologian named Reinhold Niebuhr was vacationing in his summer cottage near Heath, Massachusetts. One Sunday evening, Dr. Niebuhr conducted a worship service at a small church in that area. At the end of the service, Dr. Niebuhr gave a brief closing prayer.

 

The prayer really hit home with one of the members of the congregation and as he greeted Dr. Niebuhr, he asked if he could have a copy of it. Dr. Niebuhr reached into his Bible, pulled out a crumpled piece of paper and handed it to him.

The prayer read: "God give us the serenity to accept what cannot be changed, courage to change what should be changed, and the wisdom to distinguish one from the other."

From that moment on, the prayer seemed to spread everywhere. Someone from the USO picked it up and it was used by the servicemen during the Second World War. Then the founder of Alcoholics Anonymous discovered the prayer and it became the theme prayer of A.A.

 

Over the years I have seen the prayer hanging in many homes. The prayer is meaningful to so many people because it speaks to a great need in our lives. Knowing when to let go, to accept and to trust . . . somehow helps us put things into perspective.

 

The Mt. Bethel community was truly shaken Saturday, March 22, as we learned of the tragic automobile accident that claimed the life of Ed Strickland, and severely injured his wife, Lynn, and grandson, Ashton. They were simply enjoying the day and a ride in his newly purchased 1928 Ford Model A Coupe.

 

Why?!!

 

No one can know the answer, other than a senseless accident. The better question is "How?!" . . . How can we help the survivors and the family? You have answered that question magnificently, Mt. Bethel. You have buoyed the family with food, calls, cards, visits and prayers. Once again, you have shown why Mt. Bethel is so, so special.

 

It helps, when life knocks us backward, to remember that we are not alone: God, who loves us more than we can imagine, is with us and His powerful love surrounds us. Prayer with Him, puts steadiness into our steps and quietness into our souls. Prayer is the communicating link with the One who knows no defeat, and holds our loved ones in 

the palm of His mighty hand . . . both here and there.

 

May you feel His presence in your prayers and know that "peace which passes understanding."

Randy 

 

 

Please go to  CaringBridge for updates on Lynn Strickland and her grandson, Ashton. If you would like to help with meals for Lynn's daughters and their families, please sign up here.


Worship Services  

 

Worship Services - April 6

 

 

8:15am Chapel - "What Do You Have In Your Hand" - Fourth in Series: "Questions God Asks" - Exodus 3:7-10 and 4:1-5- Rev. Kim McGarr 

 

9:30am & 11:00am Sanctuary - "What Do You Have In Your Hand?" - Fourth in Series: "Questions God Asks" - Exodus 4:1-5 - Dr. Randy Mickler 

 

11:00am Contemporary Worship in the Fellowship Hall - "What Do You Have In Your Hand?" - Fourth in Series: "Questions God Asks" - Exodus 4:1-5 - Rev. Glenn Ray 

 

11:00am Kid Quest Children's Worship for K-2nd Graders in F015 - "Feet First" - John 13:1-17 

 
11:00am The P.O.D. Children's Worship for 3rd to 5th Graders in F011 - "Questions God Asks" - Part 4- What Do You Have In Your Hand?" - Exodus 3:7-9, 14, 17; 4:1-5

1:00am St. Philip UMC - "Called and Equipped" - Exodus 3:7-10 and 4:1-5 - Rev. Kim McGarr 
 

 

Our Joys & Concerns

The altar flowers are given to the Glory of God and in loving memory of Virginia Rizzo on our wedding anniversary by Charles Rizzo. The rosebud on the altar is in honor of the birth of Michael John Syrios, son of Michael & Chrissy Syrios and grandson of Deno & Karen Syrios, on March 27, 2014.

 

The Paschal Candle burns in honor of the life of Evelyn Rodgers and Jerry Seling, now living in the Father's House. The Paschal Candle also burns in honor of the baptisms of Alexander Jacob Eaton, son of Ches & Tracy Eaton; and Wyatt Campbell Larson, son of Jimmy & Cam Larson.

 

Recently hospitalized: Marthola Crox, Valerie Harris, Lynn Strickland.  

 

We extend Christian sympathy to: the family and friends of Evelyn Rodgers; to Barbara Seling in the loss of her husband, Jerry Seling; and to Thom, Jane, Ben and Shelley Watkins and Aaron, Sallie & Thomas Robinson in the loss of Jane's father, Bruce Dyer. May God hold you in the palm of His hand during this time of grief. 

 

Weekend Minister on call - 770-354-5433  

 

Our Faithfulness

 

Offerings Received last week $90,543 

Offerings this fiscal year $2,372,389 

Budget offerings needed to date $2,319,100 

Mt. Bethel membership 9,436 


 

From the Blog and Photo Gallery
Mission Teams Commissioning Sunday March 23.
We sent four teams out to the mission field last weekend: three Spring Break student mission trips, and a team to West Virginia. The consecration (above) was powerful. Here are some reports from the teams:

From our West Virginia Mission partner, Trinity Temple
 
We are enjoying your missions team this weekend in Welch WV! We passed out around 160 bologna and cheese bag lunches yesterday. [read more]
 
 

Pictures from Puerto Rico
 
Puerto Rico: 7th/8th grade students and parents
 
God is moving in mighty ways through our students and parents here in Puerto RicoEach day, designated groups have planned...[read more



Pictures from New York


New York: 9th/10th graders

Fantastic spirit filled first two days here in New York! Can't wait to see what God has in store for the rest of the week! [read more]




Pictures from Belize



Belize: 11th/12th graders

God is so good! This team is having such a good time! The Lord is having a field day with our hearts! [read updates on the MBSM Facebook page]



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  Upcoming Events

 

 

 

 

Don't forget to get your Passover Seder Meal tickets.

 

 

Palm Sunday & Jerusalem Market | Sunday, April 13

Seder Meal | Thursday, April 17

Good Friday Service | Friday, April 18

Tenebrae Service | Friday, April 18

Easter Egg Hunt | Saturday, April 19

 

Nursery for children ages five and under is available for all activities and services with the exception of Good Friday and the Egg Hunt. Nursery reservations are required. 

 

 

 Easter Sunday | Sunday, April 20

7:00am | Sunrise Service
7:30am | Breakfast
9:00am | Sanctuary and Fellowship Hall

11:00am | Sanctuary and Fellowship Hall

No Sunday School. Nursery is provided for all services, except for the Sunrise Service. There will be God's Garden in A35 for the 9:00 and 11am services. Children must be three by September 1, 2013 to attend-4K. 

Special Needs Sunday School will meet at 11am only.

  

Attention Men!

Good Friday Morning Men's Breakfast 

April 20 | 7:30am | Paper Mill Grill

Breakfast will be served from a buffet. There will be two omelet stations, grits, home fries, etc. Space is limited to 50, so don't wait. Register online. Questions? Contact Ben Hornsby at 678-333-1871. 



Rev. Steven Brumbeloe will begin a new six-week Pastor's Bible Study on Wednesday, April 9

Luke: The Journey - Join Rev. Steven Brumbeloe as he covers the journey Jesus takes to Jerusalem. Participate with Jesus and the conversations he had along the way. This study will focus on the parables from Luke's gospel and will begin Wednesday, April 9, 10-11:30am, A18.

 

 

Thompson-Sheffield Softball Classic 2014  May 10 @ 8:30 am - 5:30 pm | $300 per team

It's time to sign up for this Adult Co-Ed softball tournament supporting recreational ministries. A day filled with great food, fun, fellowship and softball of course! Each team playing is guaranteed at least three games in a round robin format. Semifinals and championship games follow the same afternoon. Deadline to register is April 25.

 



Coming This Fall!
 Rooted Women's Conference
October 24-25 | Mt. Bethel UMC Learn More
Our guest speaker will be Lysa TerKeurst, a New York Times bestselling author a
nd speaker who helps everyday women live an adventure of faith through following Jesus Christ. As president of Proverbs 31 Ministries, Lysa has led thousands to make their walk with God an invigorating journey.

 

 

Announcements  

  

Easter Lilies | $12/plant | Deadline is April 8

Easter Lilies will be used to decorate the Sanctuary and the Fellowship Hall for Easter Sunday, April 20. If you would like to honor or remember someone in this way, please register online.

Mt. Bethel Children's Consignment Sale Disbursement Deadline is Monday, April 7. Go here to download the disbursement request form.

 

Attention High School Seniors. It's time to sign up for Baccalaureate Sunday (May 18) and for your Senior Dinner (May 5). You can also apply for a college scholarship to be awarded on Baccalaureate SundayGo here to download the forms for Men's, Women's, and Deborah V. Pierce Music scholarships, or pick up a form in the front office.

 Fitness Boot Camp - We are offering a new 5-week Boot Camp every Monday - Thursday, April 8 - May 9 - 11:00-11:30am.  (No camp the 1st Monday, April 7.) No additional charge if currently enrolled in unlimited classes.  $60 to all others. Bring your own mat.  Complete schedule of fitness classes here.  New session began March 17

 

The Spirit of America Concert 2014 is May 18 at 5pm! Join us for a very special time together as we reflect back to the 1940's Big Band era and the days of the USO Show. We are actively recruiting "seasonal singers" to come join us immediately after Spring Break for a five-week commitment of Wednesday evening and/or Sunday afternoon rehearsals. Won't you consider being a part of this thrilling community event? Call or email Sandra Chapman to get on the roster.

 

The Lynn Smith Circle will meet on Wednesday, April 9, at 12:00noon in B118. Our Circle is a service oriented group of women mostly 50 and over. Light refreshments are provided.  After our short business meeting we work on various projects to benefit several missions and charities. If you would lilke more information, about our Circle, please contact Suzanne Hickman at 770-518-1458 or Clara Orlando at 770-643-1601.  We would love to have you join us.

 

 

Summer is almost here! Time to make your plans and reserve your places.

Recreation Camps 
Soccer, Baseball, Volleyball, Hoops, Cheerleading. See website for details and dates.

Performing Arts Camps

Children's Summer Activities

CHARGE! Retreat | May 3-4 | Camp Lee | 4th & 5th Graders & Parents

June VBS | June 9-12 | 12:30-3:30pm

Family VBS | July 13, 14 & 15 | 6-8:30pm


Preschool Camps
School-led camps in June and July, and a range of themed camps June 2-6. See website for details and dates.

Student Camps
Sixers Retreat | May 30-31 | Mt. Bethel

Middle School SIFAT Serve and Learn Experience | June 15 - 20 | Lineville, AL

High School Summer Beach Retreat | June 23 - 27 | Myrtle Beach, SC

fUSE 14 for 7th/8th graders | July 7 - 11 | $350 | Copperhill, TN

High School Camping and Mission Trip | July 24 - 25 | Auburn, AL

See website for more summer activities

 

Mt. Bethel Christian Academy Marietta 

Mt. Bethel Christian Academy is accepting applications for the next school year - and now enrolling 9th grade students for August 2014 at their Upper School campus at 2509 Post Oak Tritt Road. Join us any Wednesday at 10am for a school tour. Questions? Call 770-971-0245 or email Jackie Grasty.

 


Summer Internship Program
Mt. Bethel offers paid summer internships working with children's, student, and college ministries. If you are interested in applying, please submit an applicationFor more information, contact Gaylyn.

 

Rise Up! Parent Seminar | Friday, May 2 | 6:30-8:30pm | Chimney Springs Clubhouse | 6:30-8:30pm | $15/family, includes a copy of Barrett's book. 

Enjoy coffee and dessert as Barrett Johnson, author of The Talk(s) - A Parent's Guide to Critical Conversations about Sex, Dating and Other Unmentionables, equips parents with practical tips for talking to your children about these important issues. Advance online registration required. Questions?

 

The Mt. Bethel Nursery is looking for a nursery staff member with a heart for teaching children. If you feel called to teach children ages birth to two years old on Sunday mornings and assist with diapering, feeding, and care during Sunday morning services, please contact Debbie Ruth. This is a paid position.

  

Mt. Bethel Day Care Center is now hiring part-time employees to work in the afternoons. If you are 18 years old and have childcare experience please contact Dee Stolz: 678-560-8005.

 

Catechesis registration is now open for the school year 2014-2015. It is first come, first served.  Returning children and incoming siblings of existing families do take priority and must also be re-registered. We only have some spots for new children, so if your child is three by September and is potty trained, you may enroll him/her in Catechesis. Regular attendance is required. Contact Betsy Brown in case of questions.

 

Aloha to Aging

Alzheimer's/Caregiver Support Group | Monday, April 7 | 10:30am

Open to family members who are assisting an aging loved one both inside and outside of the home. Helpful tips and resources provide comfort and encouragement. Free respite care is provided for your loved one while we meet, but must call in advance for care to 678-439-1177 or email info@alohatoaging.org. Meeting held at Aloha To Aging, Inc. 4608 Lower Roswell Rd. Marietta, GA 30068.

Go online for all of our monthly activities.

 

Opportunities to Serve 

  

SonTreasure Island Vacation Bible School (June 9-12, 12:30-3:30pm) is all about spreading the good news of Jesus! We want to get children into the Word and get the Word into children. Children will discover God's love as we study how Jesus showed us love through New Testament Bible stories. We're in the planning stages and are looking for adult station leaders and adult/teen crew leaders, as well as teen volunteers to assist in these positions.  Please take time to sign up online and let us know you are going to be a part of an amazing adventure this summer. Questions?  Call Dianne Hylton 770-971-5074

 

MUST Volunteers Needed

MUST annually helps nearly 30,000 people, providing emergency food and baked goods, free clothing, and job assistance. Please contact Daniel if you are able to serve on any of the following dates or to be added to the list for future opportunities. Go here for more information. Located at Elizabeth Inn, 55 Elizabeth Church Road, Marietta. Key dates needed are:

Must Wear:  April 21 - 9:30am - 12:00pm 

MUST Laundry:  April 5, 11 & 29 - 6:30-10:30pm

 

Camp Hope 2014 | May 24-30

We need both teen and adult volunteers. Volunteer Counselor applications are available online. For more information on volunteering and upcoming information sessions, e-mail Christina Graff.

 

Donations needed for CHARGE! Retreat

We need empty baby food jars, bags of men's white t-shirts (size S and M), and boxes of Crayola crayons (name brand important). Please drop donations off with Sherri Juliani in the Children's Ministry Department. 


This Week's Schedule:  

  

Sunday, April 6

7:30-9:30am Fellowship Breakfast - Fellowship Hall

8:15am Worship Service - Chapel

9:30am Sunday School

9:30am God's Garden - A35

9:30am Worship Service - Sanctuary

11:00am Worship Service - Sanctuary

11:00am Contemporary Worship - Fellowship Hall

11:00am - Kid Quest (K-2nd Grade) - F015

11:00am - The POD (3-5th Grade) - F011

11:00am God's Garden - A35

11:00am Sunday School

12:15pm Healing Communion Service - Chapel

4:00pm 4th & 5th Grade Life Groups - F Buildi ng

5:00pm Middle School Life Groups

6:00pm High School Life Groups

8:30pm Men's Basketball - Gym

  

Monday, April 7

5:00-10:00pm Spring Recreation Leagues - "Fields of Dreams"

  

Tuesday, April 8

9:00am Membership Committee - B112

9:30am Mother's Morning Out

10:30am Knitting Angels - B109

11:00am-1:15pm Tuesday Lunch - Dining Room

5:00-10:00pm Spring Recreation Leagues - "Fields of Dreams"

6:30pm McDaniel Ringers - A23

  

Wednesday, April 9

9:15am Dorothy Summerour Circle - B111

10:00am Book Talk - B106

10:00am Pastor's Bible Study - A18

11:00am Special Projects Committee - B116

12:00pm Lynn Smith Circle - B118

1:00pm Bridge Group - Community Center

4:00pm iPraise Jr. - A18/23

4:30pm iPraise - A18

4:30-6:45pm Fellowship Dinner - Fellowship Hall

5:00-10:00pm Spring Recreation Leagues - "Fields of Dreams"

6:30pm Celebration Choir Rehearsal - A23

6:30pm Adult Bible Studies

6:30pm Grief Support Group - B106

6:30pm Divorce Support Group - H House

6:30pm Pre-Baptism Class for Parents - Chapel

6:30pm SPLAT U Children's Program - F001, F011, F015

7:00pm Orchestra Rehearsal - Sanctuary

7:15pm Chancel Choir Rehearsal - A18

7:30pm Inside Out - Upper Room

  

Thursday, April 10

9:30am Quilting for Christ - F001

9:30am Mothers of Elementary Students - B118

9:30am Mothers Morning Out - D5-7

10:00am Spring Art Class - Community Center

11:00am Memorial Service for Jerry Seling - Sanctuary

5:00-10:00pm Spring Recreation Leagues - "Fields of Dreams"

7:00pm Prayer Ministry - B106

  

Friday, April 11

9:30am Mother's Morning Out - F005-07

5:00pm Walker/Self Wedding Rehearsal - Sanctuary

5:00-10:00pm Spring Recreation Leagues - "Fields of Dreams"

  

Saturday, April 12

8:00am-8:00pm Spring Recreation Leagues - "Fields of Dreams"

10:00am FOCUS Extra Special Respite - Day Care Center

10:00am Alcoholics Anonymous - Community Center

6:00pm Walker/Self Wedding - Sanctuary

8:00am-8:00pm Spring Recreation Leagues - "Fields of Dreams"

  

10:00am FOCUS Extra Special Respite - Day Care Center

10:00am Alcoholics Anonymous - Community Center

6:00pm Walker/Self Wedding - Sanctuary

 

We also have many Bible Studies and Sunday School classes each week. To find the one that's right for you, visit our website.