THE SWEET, SWEET SPIRIT

       Our church met in its annual Charge Conference setting last Monday and heard stimulating reports from our various committees and ministries. Following are some highlights that we need to keep in mind:

    The number of people involved in ministries has grown, as have the available opportunities for each of us to be a part of something significant. As Forrest Cate often says, we try to create space for ministry and for us to participate. You are doing well in living and proclaiming the gospel in Marietta and around the world.

    A weapons policy was approved. It is in keeping with directives from our denomination and discourages the possession of weapons in and around the church. A copy of the policy will be available soon on the website.

    New bylaws for the Weekday Ministry were approved (also available soon on the website). Our program is an exceptional one and the new bylaws update and clarify some of our objectives and core values.

    The Restore to Glory program (the renovation and updating of our facility) is progressing well and we have not yet approached the line of credit (thank you for your generosity to this vital need!). Trustees Chair Tom Halliburton reported that we have discovered massive plumbing issues and the Council approved a $400,000 increase to that $2 million campaign.

    The Foundation has been pushed to the back burner due to the Restore to Glory campaign but the Council heard that soon we will receive an update on the Foundation with assistance in how we can designate testamentary gifts to the long-term mission of the church.

    Financially, you have been faithful in 2014. There has been an increase in our giving and we are a bit ahead of the pace of the previous year. Of course, we need to finish strong in these next few weeks of 2014.

    Most of all, we agree that there is, indeed, a "sweet, sweet spirit" in this place. We proclaim the gospel of grace and love and lift high the cross of Jesus Christ. This is a good place and a good time to be in ministry together. Thank you for what you do this day and every day.

    And I'll see you this Sunday.
 

News

Youth Night Out is scheduled for November 23 at 5:30 p.m.. We will be heading to Mountasia. Cost is $15! (Josh Sweeney, ext. 7808)

Would you like to follow John Wesley's footsteps in England with the Youth Choir next year? The all-inclusive tour (June 1-10) is open to church members, family and friends. Enrollment is open for a limited time.  (Bryan Black, ext.  7815)
 

Reception for Beverly McCrary. Beverly McCrary is retiring after 43 years of serving our church. Join us for a reception in her honor on Sunday, November 23 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Family Life Hall.

College Care Packages will be going out soon. Please send the name and mailing address of your college student to Erin Kimbrel. (Rev. Elaine Wilder, ext. 7826)

Operation Christmas Child. Fill a shoebox with toys and goodies for children around the world. Boxes are due at the Reception Desk by November 19th. Sponsored by The United Methodist Women; more information can be found on the Bridge. (Rev. Elaine Wilder, ext. 7826)

Help re-stock our food pantry during November. Please bring your non-perishable items to the workroom next to the receptionist's desk. (Forrest Cate, ext. 7806)

November 12: Swiss chicken with dressing or grilled tilapia with orzo, vegetables, salad bar, rolls and desserts.

Dementia Caregivers Support Group

Wednesday, November 12

Commitment Sunday

Sunday, November 16

Sunday, November 16

Thanksgiving Feast

Sunday, November 16

Dramatic Arts Team Open House

Sunday, November 16

Peru Mission Trip Returns

Monday, November 17

Senior High Youth Night Out

Sunday, November 23

Thanksgiving Day

Thursday, November 27

Church Office Closed

in Observance of Thanksgiving

November 27-28

First Sunday in Advent

Sunday, November 30

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