REFEREES

    From 1989 to 1997, I served as Senior Pastor of the First United Methodist Church in Atlanta, and I must admit that from time to time, I miss Peachtree Street. Sam's Picture There was any number of parades for any number of celebrations, celebrities passed by from time and time, and a variety of interesting characters made each day a serendipitous treat.
    I remember Superman, complete with a blue body suit, cape, and red boots, who was something of a regular fixture. I remember an Indian chief in full costume, complete with war paint, a headdress, and tomahawk, but saw him only a few times. Maybe, he and Superman were the same person. But in Marietta recently I saw something that I never saw in Atlanta. I saw a referee! He wore a white cap, white pants, and a black-and-white striped shirt as he made his way around the Square. He had on those high black socks and athletic shoes. I don't know if he had a whistle, but there was a flag in his back pocket that he could drop in a moment's notice in the event of a penalty.
    I don't know if the "ref" was getting ready for Halloween, or perhaps on his way to one of the high schools in the area, but I really like the idea of referees on our streets. Perhaps Mayor Tumlin or Commission Chair Lee can find funds to put a referee on every corner, in every office, and in every store.
   I've seen traffic mishaps that could use a good referee, and I've seen people argue about a parking space. I've heard complaints about City Hall, the church, Barack Obama, the Braves, Todd Gurley, and the weather, to name just a few.
    I know that young people are choosing a college, and adults who are making business decisions. Some folks are thinking about moving and others are thinking about retiring. Perhaps a referee could make a call and move things along.
   Of course, there are no easy answers, no simple fixes, and no one can make our tough calls for us. The will of God is not revealed to the casual observer or to those who are merely curious. Instead, we settle our differences and determine God's will through diligent study, fervent prayer, and good will. There are no other ways. The referees cannot help us, but the Spirit of God stands ready.
   And I'll see you this Sunday.

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News

A Service of Hope and Healing. In worship on Sunday, October 26, we will offer special prayers for individuals and families who have been touched by addiction of all kinds. Following our 11:15 a.m. service, we will have an open luncheon for anyone who has been impacted by these issues. There will also be a drug take-back box on campus all morning as an opportunity to safely dispose of unused prescription drugs. (Forrest Cate, ext. 7806)

A Caregivers Conference will take place on Saturday, October 25 from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. here at FUMC. Speakers will offer information and resources for people caring for or preparing to care for loved ones who are aging or facing illness. (Rev. Elaine Wilder, ext. 7826)

Join us for the 2014 Beth Berman Memorial Fund Dinner and Silent Auction on Thursday, October 30 in the Family Life Hall. The Silent Auction begins at 6 p.m. in Room 104 and dinner will be served at 7 p.m. Our guest speaker, Dr. Eric Mathis of Samford University will present "Let it Go: The Blessing and Bane of Missions in the North American Church." Tickets are available through the church office. (E-mail Ed Payne or Forrest Cate, ext. 7806)

Boy Scout Troop 277 annual chili cook off is Sunday, November 2 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Family Life Hall. Enjoy homemade chili made by the troop patrols and favorite family recipes, as well as corn bread, hot dogs, desserts, and drinks. In lieu of admission cost, donations to Troop 277 are appreciated! Bring the whole family for a delicious fall lunch, and cast your vote to help decide the coveted patrol and individual chili winner! E-mail Kelly Duncan or call her at ext. 7812.

Social Media and Internet Safety. Calling all parents of 3^rd-5^th graders! Join us on Wednesday, October 22 from 6:30-8 p.m. in the Reception Hall to hear a guest speaker discuss social media and Internet safety for children. (Georgia Rambo, ext. 7805)

Children's Ministry October Volunteer Needs. Please consider volunteering in 3K or 4K Sunday School or 11:15 a.m. Fuse Worship in October. Volunteer duties include walking the children to and from the Sanctuary for the Children's Sermon, assisting children with crafts planned and led by the worship leader, and teaching Bible stories that we all know and love! To volunteer, please send an e-mail to Kelly Duncan. (Kelly Duncan, ext. 7812)

Tailgate Treats is coming soon! Mark your calendars for Sunday, October 26 from 4-6 p.m. for our annual fall celebration. There will be hay rides, petting farm, cake walk, costume contests, and lots of candy! (Georgia Rambo, ext. 7805)

Join our Peru Mission Team. The group will work in Chimbote, Peru November 8-15. There is a need for medical personnel to work in the health clinic, and also workers with basic carpentry or electrical skills. Send an e-mail to Kathy Cadle for more information.

Restore to Glory!

Want more information about Restore To Glory! and its progress? Visit its Web site, which includes the latest news about projects with photos to show our progress. There, you will also find information about how to donate or make your pledge.

This Week

Attention all Youth! On Sunday, October 19, we are heading to Cagle's Corn Maze from 5:30-9 p.m. Cost is $15. Wear warm clothes and feel free to invite your friends. (Josh Sweeney, ext. 7808)

Men's Bible Study. All men of the church are invited to learn about the Old Testament prophets. This study will be six session beginning Tuesday, October 21 at 8 p.m. in Room 259. We will view a video by Walter Brueggemann with group discussion to follow. (E-mail Fred Finzer or call Forrest Cate, ext. 7806)

Connect Through Table Fellowship

Church Family Supper is served in the Family Life Hall at 5:15 p.m. on Wednesdays. $6 (adults) and $4 (children from 3 to 11). $20 family cap.

October 15:

Chicken Divan or Grilled Tilapia, rice, vegetables, salad bar, rolls and dessert. Kids- Hamburger or cheese burger, tater rounds, salad bar, and dessert.

Save the Date

Men's Bible Study Begins

Tuesday, October 21

Social Media & Internet Safety

Wednesday, October 22

Caregivers Conference

Saturday, October 25

Service of Hope and Healing

Sunday, October 26

Tailgate Treats

Sunday, October 26

Beth Berman Dinner