What would happen to your denomination if you received $1.5 billion with strings attached? Would it help you accomplish your mission?
That's the intriguing drama being played out with the Salvation Army and the communities which have received KROC Centers. The original plan from the Joan Kroc estate envisioned 30 KROC Centers around the US as community centers affiliated with the Salvation Army. The receiving community would need to raise half the funds and then be matched by KROC. See the 2006 story from a philanthropy perspective. The NY Times offered this update in 2009 as the economy struggled and some metropolitan areas gave up on the projects for lack of community funding support.
The nearby Augusta GA KROC Center broke ground February 2010 and held their grand opening August 2011. They are situated in the old mill village of Harrisburg. It's a neighborhood in town often in the news for one problem or another. The KROC Center has an impressive building with an incredible array of programming. Here are the early numbers from 2009 regarding the projected impact and later explanations to the public . Despite the media coverage there still seems be be some confusion even today. Questions still remain whether KROC is intended for the local neighborhood, which also houses the Salvation Army, and will meet the needs of the poor of that community. I've noticed many recent Facebook posts for our Augusta branch reminding everyone that SA is a church. That seems to somehow have gotten lost in the excitement. Will folk be as excited as KROC rightfully presses the church aspect of their agenda?
But back to my initial question. How does a ministry/denomination that seems to specialize in serving the poor and those hit by disaster juggle a programming approach to ministry using a community center/recreation approach and keep their focus? The local effort will soon unveil their First Stop social service approach as they gather various partners to meet the needs of the poor. But how will the poor and those needing social services mix with the middle class and those served by the community programming of KROC? Most church ministry attempts at this take a stronger lead with the spiritual component to help integrate various socio-economic or ethnic groups. Of course, we all know that recreation is a great and easy place to gather a great mix of people. Perhaps the program approach taking the lead is a good solution.
Across the U.S., and even here in Augusta, many of us are watching to see how the millions and billions of dollars from the KROC Foundation will impact the mission of the Salvation Army. The next year will be interesting as these answers will soon be revealed for the Salvation Army, our local KROC Center, and Harrisburg.
Showing posts with label community. Show all posts
Showing posts with label community. Show all posts
Wednesday, October 12, 2011
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
More Requests for Help & Less Available
We're getting hit hard by more requests for financial assistance at the church. After the hottest summer on record in the southeast all the power bills are coming due. The utility companies have run out of patience. People are getting desperate. More people who have minimum wage jobs are now unable to pay their power bill and their rent. And more people are working those jobs after they have lost a better paying position.
Over the last three years the wave of requests has increased each year. I can remember thinking when it first hit that it was awful as folk lost jobs and homes. The middle class got squeezed hard. The poor got poorer. More people fighting over fewer jobs is a tough recipe.
Then two years ago it seemed like it intensified again. The requests hit a new level with even more people looking for help. More middle class and professional types found themselves in situations they'd never encountered before and had never worried about. Foreclosures and "walk aways" in middle class neighborhoods change the values of existing homes so that what starts as a reasonable investment 5 years ago is now "underwater."
How long can it go on? Now I'm beginning to wonder if this will take years to get through. Or is it perhaps the "new normal?"
In the last month it seems like we've hit yet another level of requests for financial help. I get more interruptions each day with the phone call or walk in. I always ask about family, church, anyone who can help. They've already gone to those sources and are now more desperate. There's more shame, more guilt, more despair, more tears and trembling.
Even though we've tried to use our money wisely and send most of it with local organizations that specialize in helping folk we find more people are falling "in the gaps." If you are a single adult with no children, or if you aren't yet in the elderly category, and if you don't have a disability... well you better not go through a divorce, or lose insurance, or lose a job for long, or have any sort of emergency with your vehicle or some big price tag item in your life.
Tough times seem to be getting tougher. While many church folk are extremely generous and give to such "compassion concerns" it seems like the numbers requesting assistance just continue to grow. In Augusta/Richmond County GA the estimates based on census data say 21% of the population makes less than $25,000 a year. That's 10,738 households.
While a good 24% of the population in Richmond County gives over $200 per year to a church, not all churches help with such requests. The local United Methodist Children's Home office assists families in need, and saw an 11% increase in requests for assistance the last fiscal year (ending September) while experiencing a decrease of available funds. I heard of another social service group that had what was, in the past, a funding amount for 3 years that was used in 18 months due to the increased need. Similar stories are shared from other partner groups as well. Add to this that state and federal government are sharing less funding for such social needs and it's a nasty community drama being played out.
Interfaith Hospitality Network of Augusta makes use of churches to house homeless families and provide the necessary support services to help a family stabilize and return to housing and independence. Currently there are 156 families already qualified to enter the program and on the waiting list! The current needs and request for assistance are staggering.
How does your church or nonprofit ministry meet the needs in the community with less available funding? Most organizations have gone from streamlining 3 years ago, to cutting positions and ministries, and are merely hoping to survive. How do you deal with more requests for assistance when there is less funding available? How can we best stabilize families and communities even as there is less funding available?
I'm recalling those New Testament miracle stories when the people would gather their meager resources, Jesus in their midst would offer a blessing, and the needs of the crowds would be met. Lord, let that happen again today as your Kingdom seeks to be expressed on earth in these tough days!
Over the last three years the wave of requests has increased each year. I can remember thinking when it first hit that it was awful as folk lost jobs and homes. The middle class got squeezed hard. The poor got poorer. More people fighting over fewer jobs is a tough recipe.
Then two years ago it seemed like it intensified again. The requests hit a new level with even more people looking for help. More middle class and professional types found themselves in situations they'd never encountered before and had never worried about. Foreclosures and "walk aways" in middle class neighborhoods change the values of existing homes so that what starts as a reasonable investment 5 years ago is now "underwater."
How long can it go on? Now I'm beginning to wonder if this will take years to get through. Or is it perhaps the "new normal?"
In the last month it seems like we've hit yet another level of requests for financial help. I get more interruptions each day with the phone call or walk in. I always ask about family, church, anyone who can help. They've already gone to those sources and are now more desperate. There's more shame, more guilt, more despair, more tears and trembling.
Even though we've tried to use our money wisely and send most of it with local organizations that specialize in helping folk we find more people are falling "in the gaps." If you are a single adult with no children, or if you aren't yet in the elderly category, and if you don't have a disability... well you better not go through a divorce, or lose insurance, or lose a job for long, or have any sort of emergency with your vehicle or some big price tag item in your life.
Tough times seem to be getting tougher. While many church folk are extremely generous and give to such "compassion concerns" it seems like the numbers requesting assistance just continue to grow. In Augusta/Richmond County GA the estimates based on census data say 21% of the population makes less than $25,000 a year. That's 10,738 households.
While a good 24% of the population in Richmond County gives over $200 per year to a church, not all churches help with such requests. The local United Methodist Children's Home office assists families in need, and saw an 11% increase in requests for assistance the last fiscal year (ending September) while experiencing a decrease of available funds. I heard of another social service group that had what was, in the past, a funding amount for 3 years that was used in 18 months due to the increased need. Similar stories are shared from other partner groups as well. Add to this that state and federal government are sharing less funding for such social needs and it's a nasty community drama being played out.
Interfaith Hospitality Network of Augusta makes use of churches to house homeless families and provide the necessary support services to help a family stabilize and return to housing and independence. Currently there are 156 families already qualified to enter the program and on the waiting list! The current needs and request for assistance are staggering.
How does your church or nonprofit ministry meet the needs in the community with less available funding? Most organizations have gone from streamlining 3 years ago, to cutting positions and ministries, and are merely hoping to survive. How do you deal with more requests for assistance when there is less funding available? How can we best stabilize families and communities even as there is less funding available?
I'm recalling those New Testament miracle stories when the people would gather their meager resources, Jesus in their midst would offer a blessing, and the needs of the crowds would be met. Lord, let that happen again today as your Kingdom seeks to be expressed on earth in these tough days!
Sunday, October 9, 2011
Thankful for Local Missionaries
We usually think of missionaries as folk who go to some distant location. I think that anyone who follows Christ is called to be a missionary- one who shares the love of God in word and deed. Aren't we all sent on mission as we follow the Son of God?
It is an honor to work with a number of local missionaries. That's not their official title, and they may not even call themselves that, but they are influential in the Kingdom, the Augusta community, and the Church as they meet needs and share the love of God. During the last couple of weeks I've been "making the rounds" introducing the local outreach leader from our church to some of our major local mission partners. We haven't made it to everyone just yet, but it's already proven to be a great exercise and wonderful way to catch up with some local missionaries and encourage them to continue in their good work despite the challenges.
So, today I'm thankful for the local missionaries! I've met with and relied on everyone in the list below during the last couple of weeks. Some folk in my prayers today are:
-Rick Herring, Augusta Urban Ministries
-FROGs- that's a group of retired guys from my church who do construction work in town for the church and for many nonprofit groups
-Mike Firmin, Golden Harvest Food Bank
-Amy Breitman, Goodwill
-Sarah McDonald, Interfaith Hospitality Network of Augusta
-Millicent West, New Bethlehem Community Center
-Marsha Jones, St. Luke UMC
-Thurman Norville, United Methodist Children's Home/Augusta
-YOU!
You couldn't ask for a better group of co-conspirators for the great work of the Kingdom! Of course, there is always room for one more in local mission.
How are you doing in local mission? Who's on your prayer list as you give thanks for the local missionaries?
It is an honor to work with a number of local missionaries. That's not their official title, and they may not even call themselves that, but they are influential in the Kingdom, the Augusta community, and the Church as they meet needs and share the love of God. During the last couple of weeks I've been "making the rounds" introducing the local outreach leader from our church to some of our major local mission partners. We haven't made it to everyone just yet, but it's already proven to be a great exercise and wonderful way to catch up with some local missionaries and encourage them to continue in their good work despite the challenges.
So, today I'm thankful for the local missionaries! I've met with and relied on everyone in the list below during the last couple of weeks. Some folk in my prayers today are:
-Rick Herring, Augusta Urban Ministries
-FROGs- that's a group of retired guys from my church who do construction work in town for the church and for many nonprofit groups
-Mike Firmin, Golden Harvest Food Bank
-Amy Breitman, Goodwill
-Sarah McDonald, Interfaith Hospitality Network of Augusta
-Millicent West, New Bethlehem Community Center
-Marsha Jones, St. Luke UMC
-Thurman Norville, United Methodist Children's Home/Augusta
-YOU!
You couldn't ask for a better group of co-conspirators for the great work of the Kingdom! Of course, there is always room for one more in local mission.
How are you doing in local mission? Who's on your prayer list as you give thanks for the local missionaries?
Wednesday, October 5, 2011
Christians as Promulgators and Fomenters?
A clergy friend recently posted a great quote on Facebook as his status yet deleted the one accused. Adam got attention with: "And for his own part, _________ flouted many regulations of the Church...concerning parish boundaries and who had authority to preach. This was seen as a social threat that disregarded institutions. Ministers attacked them in sermons and in print, and at times mobs attacked them. ________ and his followers continued to work among the neglected and needy. They were denounced as promulgators of strange doctrines, fomenters of religious disturbances; as blind fanatics, leading people astray, claiming miraculous gifts, attacking the clergy of the Church..."
This led to an interesting discussion by United Methodist clergy regarding these sentiments written about our beloved and often quoted founder- John Wesley- and a comparison with the church today! We especially loved the wording. Such strange words to our ears today. I'll take our quick e-conversation a few more steps.
Would the United Methodist Church, or any bishop or district superintendent, or any local congregation or ministry, put any of this in the job description today as a sought after characteristic for clergy or laity? No. *answering in John Wesley style as found in the early conference minutes of Methodism*
What/where is the place of "promulgators and fomentors" within United Methodism today? Hmmm, I can't answer this as a "yes" or "no" or with quick answer so I'll quickly abandon the John Wesley Minutes approach. I do recall that some pastors finish memorial services for deceased church members by moving their membership from the Church Militant to the Church Triumphant. Perhaps we all need to get a little more militant in our Christian walk in preparation for Heaven?
I believe at the heart of this are some very important ideas about the Kingdom of God, what it means to serve the Kingdom, and how following Jesus today may still get us in trouble, or better said, into action for God. We can easily find this a bridge to all sorts of people in a community. I also sense that we might better connect with the next generation of clergy if we embrace this "wild side," this untamed clergy viewpoint. It may even save some of the clergy who've served for some years if we can break out of the "cookie cutter" mentality and allow for following a Risen Christ in some radical ways beyond the expectations of a local congregation. Are there ways to allow for some fire in the laity & clergy, maybe even stoke the flame, while still building continuity? How do we experience that intersection of Kingdom of God and institutional Church?
I'm still thinking on that E. Stanley Jones quote mentioned yesterday: "He feared that the substitution of the church for the Kingdom of God might rob the missionary movement of the needed fires of imagination, enthusiasm, and self-criticism."
Jesus went through all the towns and villages, teaching in their synagogues, proclaiming the good news of the kingdom and healing every disease and sickness. . When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. Matthew 9:35-36
This led to an interesting discussion by United Methodist clergy regarding these sentiments written about our beloved and often quoted founder- John Wesley- and a comparison with the church today! We especially loved the wording. Such strange words to our ears today. I'll take our quick e-conversation a few more steps.
Would the United Methodist Church, or any bishop or district superintendent, or any local congregation or ministry, put any of this in the job description today as a sought after characteristic for clergy or laity? No. *answering in John Wesley style as found in the early conference minutes of Methodism*
What/where is the place of "promulgators and fomentors" within United Methodism today? Hmmm, I can't answer this as a "yes" or "no" or with quick answer so I'll quickly abandon the John Wesley Minutes approach. I do recall that some pastors finish memorial services for deceased church members by moving their membership from the Church Militant to the Church Triumphant. Perhaps we all need to get a little more militant in our Christian walk in preparation for Heaven?
I believe at the heart of this are some very important ideas about the Kingdom of God, what it means to serve the Kingdom, and how following Jesus today may still get us in trouble, or better said, into action for God. We can easily find this a bridge to all sorts of people in a community. I also sense that we might better connect with the next generation of clergy if we embrace this "wild side," this untamed clergy viewpoint. It may even save some of the clergy who've served for some years if we can break out of the "cookie cutter" mentality and allow for following a Risen Christ in some radical ways beyond the expectations of a local congregation. Are there ways to allow for some fire in the laity & clergy, maybe even stoke the flame, while still building continuity? How do we experience that intersection of Kingdom of God and institutional Church?
I'm still thinking on that E. Stanley Jones quote mentioned yesterday: "He feared that the substitution of the church for the Kingdom of God might rob the missionary movement of the needed fires of imagination, enthusiasm, and self-criticism."
Jesus went through all the towns and villages, teaching in their synagogues, proclaiming the good news of the kingdom and healing every disease and sickness. . When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. Matthew 9:35-36
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
Community Work Day
An important part of our annual mission celebration at my church includes a Saturday morning workday. You can imagine that it can be a little bit of a challenge to get folk to give up a morning, but it is a VERY rewarding experience as children, teenagers, and adults pitch in to make a difference in our local community. We try to offer a variety of projects so that a person of any skill or interest level can get a taste of community mission work. I need captains for different groups who can coordinate with me and your team, as well as a good number of participants who can work Saturday, February 5, from 9AM-12Noon. We'll gather at the church between 8-8:30 that morning for some hot coffee, a devotion & song, building teams, and then a send off. Of course, if you live closer to the worksite you can go straight to the location for the 9AM start for work. We can work easily 150-200 people that day with the current project list. See below basic information and then go to the link for more details and to sign up. Sign up online or on the work clipboard near the Worship Center on Sunday morning.
GoodWill Book Sorting- book sorting
Golden Harvest Food Bank- sorting food
ConKerr Cancer Pillowcase Project- sewing
Photographer/Videographer- capture stories and images
Welcome/Information Team- give directions and help with administration
Augusta Rescue Mission- sort clothing
Interfaith Hospitality Network- painting
Blythe UMC Cemetery Cleanup
Augusta Urban Ministries Bike Project- disassemble old donated bikes
Augusta Urban Ministries Bed Frame Building Project- help put 100 donated twin mattresses to work
Augusta Canal Cleanup- clean up a section of the canal, weather permitting
Lydia Project House Cleanup- volunteer maid service
Neighborhood Cleanup near TOTH-
Visitation Teams-- visit in a local nursing home
UMCOR Kit Assembly- put health kits together
Online Signup
GoodWill Book Sorting- book sorting
Golden Harvest Food Bank- sorting food
ConKerr Cancer Pillowcase Project- sewing
Photographer/Videographer- capture stories and images
Welcome/Information Team- give directions and help with administration
Augusta Rescue Mission- sort clothing
Interfaith Hospitality Network- painting
Blythe UMC Cemetery Cleanup
Augusta Urban Ministries Bike Project- disassemble old donated bikes
Augusta Urban Ministries Bed Frame Building Project- help put 100 donated twin mattresses to work
Augusta Canal Cleanup- clean up a section of the canal, weather permitting
Lydia Project House Cleanup- volunteer maid service
Neighborhood Cleanup near TOTH-
Visitation Teams-- visit in a local nursing home
UMCOR Kit Assembly- put health kits together
Online Signup
Thursday, July 23, 2009
Local Medical Clinic in Harrisburg
Numbers of members from Trinity on the Hill UMC have been active during the last year in helping a new ministry spring to life in the Harrisburg section of Augusta. A medical clinic based in the declining mill village area of town has had the strong involvement and encouragement of Gloria Norwood, TOTH member, & widow of the late U.S. Representative Charlie Norwood. The FROGS, Keith Howard, and others have been part of the construction of the clinic. Ben McElreath helped with legal issues in establishing the clinic and receiving funding from a similar non-profit which had gone dormant. Shirley Darracott has been a consistent leader in local mission and part of the dream and formation of the clinic from the earliest days. Scores of others have been part of these initial phases, and ongoing opportunities will exist for volunteers and donations as the ministry grows.
A key ally and sister who involved Gloria is our good friend Marsha Jones. I think of Marsha as our local missionary, & she continues her work through St. Luke UMC directing music and mission, & she has offered an outlet of ministry for Gloria and many of our TOTH members & serves as a bridge into the community. Of course, Gloria has brought her heart and soul to the community efforts and that has included her finances, her network of friends in the community and beyond, and a persistence which makes a difference. Michael Shaffer and the board of directors have come to this work through the efforts of Marsha and Gloria. Commissioner Jerry Brigham & the Augusta commission add another element to the clinic with assistance for start up funds for this worthy project in a challenging neighborhood.
It is dangerous to start naming names, especially at a late hour of day, but as I read the newspaper article it was easy to read MANY, MANY names and partnerships which have brought us to these exciting days! Forgive me if I've left someone out (add a response to help my list) & know Gloria, Marsha, and others will offer thanks to many volunteers in the days leading up to the grand opening.
See the full story at Harrisburg Family Healthcare Clinic
A key ally and sister who involved Gloria is our good friend Marsha Jones. I think of Marsha as our local missionary, & she continues her work through St. Luke UMC directing music and mission, & she has offered an outlet of ministry for Gloria and many of our TOTH members & serves as a bridge into the community. Of course, Gloria has brought her heart and soul to the community efforts and that has included her finances, her network of friends in the community and beyond, and a persistence which makes a difference. Michael Shaffer and the board of directors have come to this work through the efforts of Marsha and Gloria. Commissioner Jerry Brigham & the Augusta commission add another element to the clinic with assistance for start up funds for this worthy project in a challenging neighborhood.
It is dangerous to start naming names, especially at a late hour of day, but as I read the newspaper article it was easy to read MANY, MANY names and partnerships which have brought us to these exciting days! Forgive me if I've left someone out (add a response to help my list) & know Gloria, Marsha, and others will offer thanks to many volunteers in the days leading up to the grand opening.
See the full story at Harrisburg Family Healthcare Clinic
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
Saturday Night Rock Concert Fundraiser 4 Relay for Life
Find below a rock concert fundraiser honoring a Lakeside High School teacher who has cancer. The proceeds will benefit Relay for Life and help fight cancer. My oldest son, a junior at Lakeside High School in Evans, plays bass guitar in a jam band that's up first Saturday evening. FYI- they'll be playing at Augusta's First Friday this summer so they're pretty good. Only $5, an entertaining evening, and you'll help a great cause. Spread the word and bring a friend. And if you are local to the Augusta area share this post to your Facebook site http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=57820978001&ref=nf
BAND Together: BANISH Breast Cancer
A Benefit Concert in Honor of Karen Chase
Host: Grace Bellmer
Date: Saturday, April 18, 2009
Time: 6:00pm - 9:00pm
Location: Wesley United Methodist Church
Street: 825 North Belair Road
City/Town: Evans, GA
Phone: 7069517466
Email: gracebellmer@aol.com
Come enjoy a rockin' concert while supporting the fight against cancer!
The concert will feature local artists such as Quadraphonic, Ship of Fools, Patrick Reagan, David Owen, etc.
Tickets are five dollars and can be purchased at the door.
Concessions will be available and donations are accepted.
All proceeds go to Relay for Life.
PLEASE INVITE YOUR FRIENDS! :)
BAND Together: BANISH Breast Cancer
A Benefit Concert in Honor of Karen Chase
Host: Grace Bellmer
Date: Saturday, April 18, 2009
Time: 6:00pm - 9:00pm
Location: Wesley United Methodist Church
Street: 825 North Belair Road
City/Town: Evans, GA
Phone: 7069517466
Email: gracebellmer@aol.com
Come enjoy a rockin' concert while supporting the fight against cancer!
The concert will feature local artists such as Quadraphonic, Ship of Fools, Patrick Reagan, David Owen, etc.
Tickets are five dollars and can be purchased at the door.
Concessions will be available and donations are accepted.
All proceeds go to Relay for Life.
PLEASE INVITE YOUR FRIENDS! :)
Thursday, March 26, 2009
Chik-Fil-A & SafeHomes
Chick-Fil-A & Safe Homes
Are Teaming up to Sponsor a Spirit Night
When placing your order PLEASE say you’d like to
help SafeHomes and a portion of the proceeds will directly benefit
the women and children SafeHomes serves.
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
5:00 pm - 8:00 pm
At the following locations:
Augusta Exchange
202 Robert C Daniel Jr Pkwy
Augusta, GA 30909
(706) 738-9163
Mullins Crossing
3066 Washington Road
Augusta, GA 30907
(706) 860-7140
SafeHomes is the only Department of Human Resources certified domestic violence intervention center in the CSRA. SafeHomes provides services to the following counties: Richmond, Columbia, Burke, Jefferson, Wilkes, Tailiaferro, McDuffie, Warren, Glascock, and Lincoln. To find out more information about services provided by SafeHomes or to find out how you can help SafeHomes serve our community, please call 706-736-2499.
& remember to…Eat Mor Chikin
Are Teaming up to Sponsor a Spirit Night
When placing your order PLEASE say you’d like to
help SafeHomes and a portion of the proceeds will directly benefit
the women and children SafeHomes serves.
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
5:00 pm - 8:00 pm
At the following locations:
Augusta Exchange
202 Robert C Daniel Jr Pkwy
Augusta, GA 30909
(706) 738-9163
Mullins Crossing
3066 Washington Road
Augusta, GA 30907
(706) 860-7140
SafeHomes is the only Department of Human Resources certified domestic violence intervention center in the CSRA. SafeHomes provides services to the following counties: Richmond, Columbia, Burke, Jefferson, Wilkes, Tailiaferro, McDuffie, Warren, Glascock, and Lincoln. To find out more information about services provided by SafeHomes or to find out how you can help SafeHomes serve our community, please call 706-736-2499.
& remember to…Eat Mor Chikin
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
Recycle and Reuse
Another news item from Sunday night, and a man after my own heart. He salvages what others have thrown away.
Dumpster Diving
Dumpster Diving
Monday, March 9, 2009
Multigenerational Homes
Did you catch the NBC nightly News Sunday evening? Turns out that multigenerational homes are making a comeback in this economy. They save on the expenses of home owndership, plus lots of practical savings and mutual support with grandparents, extended family, parents, and children in one home. The news said their are 2.8 million multigenerational homes now which is the most in 3 decades.
Home
Home
Monday, March 2, 2009
Katie's Pool
This is a 2 part story which reflects the life and faith of one young women, and her profound impact on many people who were blessed to know her. The story is still being written but I thought you might like to know about it.
Our church in Augusta has had powerful youth ministries for a number of years. I'm continually amazed by the vitality and maturity of the teenagers who are such a vital part of Trinity on the Hill UMC.
Just a few years ago Katie York was one such teen. In 2005, at age 17 Katie was struck by viral encephalitis. Over night the personable teen and state record swimmer began a difficult chapter of her life which would change everything except for her sweet spirit and fighting spirit. Katie spent one month in a medically induced coma, and then 3 more months undergoing intensive therapy. With the constant support of family, the encouragement of many friends from school and church, Katie rallied to the point of finishing high school and eventually even taking university classes. She took special delight in working with special needs children in the water therapy program at the Local Y where she could help others. But the seizures returned, and Katie died last May 2008.
In the first week after her death many people who were blessed to know her began a campaign for an adapted therapy pool and facility which would serve children, adults, and even wounded military personnel who are in the Augusta area for long term rehabilitation.
Enter a current Trinity on the Hill teenager who is doing her senior project. I could share numbers of stories of those who do senior projects with focus on local, national, or international mission. Lara did a fundraiser for drilling a well in Kenya. Will did an emphasis on local mission to learn more about why some people give so much time in area ministries. Allie chose to do hers as a fundraiser for the Family Y for Katie's Pool.
To quote the local story which still brings tears to my eyes:
"Allie Howard, 17, wrote her senior paper on the effects of encephalitis, and her research reintroduced her to Miss York's inspirational story. Katie York was a friend of Allie's older brother, Ben, and a fellow member of Trinity on the Hill United Methodist Church.
Wanting to do more than just turn in a project for a grade, Allie decided to follow Miss York's example.
"'If someone with a disease can put on a smiling face and help others, then why can't I?' Allie said. 'I wanted to do something that would have a lasting impact.'"
"Allie organized a fundraising dinner at her church Jan. 29, inviting family, friends and fellow members to the $40-a-plate affair. The response went beyond those who attended, and she raised $5,700. She presented the donation check for Katie's Pool to the Family Y on Friday."
"'It's indescribable that this small project is going to help so many people,' Allie said. 'Looking at that building will remind me that even small people can play a part in something big.'"
"It is a fitting tribute to Miss York, who was determined to help make the pool a reality to serve the autistic children and other special-needs swimmers to whom she was devoted before her death at age 20."
http://chronicle.augusta.com/stories/2009/03/01/met_513138.shtml
Our church in Augusta has had powerful youth ministries for a number of years. I'm continually amazed by the vitality and maturity of the teenagers who are such a vital part of Trinity on the Hill UMC.
Just a few years ago Katie York was one such teen. In 2005, at age 17 Katie was struck by viral encephalitis. Over night the personable teen and state record swimmer began a difficult chapter of her life which would change everything except for her sweet spirit and fighting spirit. Katie spent one month in a medically induced coma, and then 3 more months undergoing intensive therapy. With the constant support of family, the encouragement of many friends from school and church, Katie rallied to the point of finishing high school and eventually even taking university classes. She took special delight in working with special needs children in the water therapy program at the Local Y where she could help others. But the seizures returned, and Katie died last May 2008.
In the first week after her death many people who were blessed to know her began a campaign for an adapted therapy pool and facility which would serve children, adults, and even wounded military personnel who are in the Augusta area for long term rehabilitation.
Enter a current Trinity on the Hill teenager who is doing her senior project. I could share numbers of stories of those who do senior projects with focus on local, national, or international mission. Lara did a fundraiser for drilling a well in Kenya. Will did an emphasis on local mission to learn more about why some people give so much time in area ministries. Allie chose to do hers as a fundraiser for the Family Y for Katie's Pool.
To quote the local story which still brings tears to my eyes:
"Allie Howard, 17, wrote her senior paper on the effects of encephalitis, and her research reintroduced her to Miss York's inspirational story. Katie York was a friend of Allie's older brother, Ben, and a fellow member of Trinity on the Hill United Methodist Church.
Wanting to do more than just turn in a project for a grade, Allie decided to follow Miss York's example.
"'If someone with a disease can put on a smiling face and help others, then why can't I?' Allie said. 'I wanted to do something that would have a lasting impact.'"
"Allie organized a fundraising dinner at her church Jan. 29, inviting family, friends and fellow members to the $40-a-plate affair. The response went beyond those who attended, and she raised $5,700. She presented the donation check for Katie's Pool to the Family Y on Friday."
"'It's indescribable that this small project is going to help so many people,' Allie said. 'Looking at that building will remind me that even small people can play a part in something big.'"
"It is a fitting tribute to Miss York, who was determined to help make the pool a reality to serve the autistic children and other special-needs swimmers to whom she was devoted before her death at age 20."
http://chronicle.augusta.com/stories/2009/03/01/met_513138.shtml
Monday, February 9, 2009
A Church in Mission
The challenge of being a church is to take care of our own folk, but not get so self absorbed that we forget about our role as part of a larger work of God in the larger community. It's that part of the Lord's Prayer I often stumble over in speech, yet more so in practice-- "Thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven."
Then the challenge of a church, even one really serious about trying to express it's faith and belief in sharing in the world, is to not get carried away with activity for the sake of activity. It's a tightrope walk, though typically we may not even try to climb the ladder much less walk the narrow way! I like the following experiment for the honesty and the attempt (after all isn't Christianity supposed to be a personal experiment in the real life setting of a community?). What do you think?
You'll find the following info on page 6 of the February-March 2009 "Visions" newsletter
http://www.cbfga.org/visions_files/Visions09FEBMAR11.pdf
GOD’S Mission, OUR Community, OUR Calling
Randy Shepley rshepley@fbctucker.org
FBC Tucker is like many other churches. We mean to love the way Jesus loves, to truly befriend and serve persons outside of our buildings, but we get distracted. I get distracted. We lose our focus, and somehow, we begin to think and act like the church is about us. We can think the church is about classes, programs, groups, and ministries that meet our needs. We even start to think the important things are adopting budgets, holding services, hiring staff, and maintaining programs. Churches would never say that caring for the business within the church is more important than loving people outside our walls, but oftentimes, we act like it.
Our church is rediscovering the foundational truth of being the church: we are not here for ourselves. We exist to do God’s mission in the world. We exist to love the people of our community toward Jesus.
Saturday, November 1, at FBC Tucker was a watershed day for us. The purpose of the day was simple: to invest as many members and attenders of our church in loving service to our community as possible. I admit, this idea of a day of service is not a new concept. I even "borrowed" the name of our day: Mission Possible. The hopes for our Mission Possible day were simple: (1) lovingly serve persons in our community with the love of Jesus, (2) have children, youth, adults, and older adults serve alongside one another, and (3) fall in love with our community.
So, what did we accomplish?
1. Two small groups of FBC Tucker volunteers gave out 205 gift cards for five dollars of free gasoline at two different gas stations. When people asked us why we were giving away free gas, we simply said, "We believe God wants us to care about the people in our community when times are tough, and this is a small way we can care."
2. A group of volunteers went to a group home for developmentally disabled adults and built a fire exit for the home, painted rooms, and completely cleaned up the yard.
3. Another group wrote seventy-five cards to persons in a local low-income nursing home. These cards were actually made by members of our adult special education Sunday School class.
4. A group set up in the church parking lot offering free car maintenance checks to passing drivers.
5. A local apartment complex allowed a group of our volunteers to throw an outdoor party for the entire complex. We were able to provide hot dogs, a bounce ride, and multiple games for the children and teens of this complex to enjoy. Furthermore, the children from our church came and played as well. New friendships began and the party was a huge success.
6. During the apartment complex party, which was held at an apartment complex where English is not the predominant language, our mission team leader led a group to each apartment and helped many of the residents change the batteries in their smoke alarms.
7. Persons representing fourteen different nationalities were served as a part of the Mission Possible day.
8. Finally, the varsity football team from Tucker High School (pardon me, the 2008 AAAA State Champion Tucker High School football team) came to our fellowship hall, and we had the privilege of preparing, serving, and cleaning up after their pre-game meal.
These are some of the acts of service that happened on our Mission Possible day. The best news from the day, however, is that the people of our church began to understand that our community is our calling. We exist to love our community with the full embrace and friendship of Jesus. My hope is that we will never again see what goes on inside our church walls as our primary focus.
Randy Shepley is blessed to pastor the people of FBC Tucker, which is three miles from the subdivision where he grew up. He has been married to his wife, Alice, for twelve years and is the father of James, Samuel, and Elizabeth.
Then the challenge of a church, even one really serious about trying to express it's faith and belief in sharing in the world, is to not get carried away with activity for the sake of activity. It's a tightrope walk, though typically we may not even try to climb the ladder much less walk the narrow way! I like the following experiment for the honesty and the attempt (after all isn't Christianity supposed to be a personal experiment in the real life setting of a community?). What do you think?
You'll find the following info on page 6 of the February-March 2009 "Visions" newsletter
http://www.cbfga.org/visions_files/Visions09FEBMAR11.pdf
GOD’S Mission, OUR Community, OUR Calling
Randy Shepley rshepley@fbctucker.org
FBC Tucker is like many other churches. We mean to love the way Jesus loves, to truly befriend and serve persons outside of our buildings, but we get distracted. I get distracted. We lose our focus, and somehow, we begin to think and act like the church is about us. We can think the church is about classes, programs, groups, and ministries that meet our needs. We even start to think the important things are adopting budgets, holding services, hiring staff, and maintaining programs. Churches would never say that caring for the business within the church is more important than loving people outside our walls, but oftentimes, we act like it.
Our church is rediscovering the foundational truth of being the church: we are not here for ourselves. We exist to do God’s mission in the world. We exist to love the people of our community toward Jesus.
Saturday, November 1, at FBC Tucker was a watershed day for us. The purpose of the day was simple: to invest as many members and attenders of our church in loving service to our community as possible. I admit, this idea of a day of service is not a new concept. I even "borrowed" the name of our day: Mission Possible. The hopes for our Mission Possible day were simple: (1) lovingly serve persons in our community with the love of Jesus, (2) have children, youth, adults, and older adults serve alongside one another, and (3) fall in love with our community.
So, what did we accomplish?
1. Two small groups of FBC Tucker volunteers gave out 205 gift cards for five dollars of free gasoline at two different gas stations. When people asked us why we were giving away free gas, we simply said, "We believe God wants us to care about the people in our community when times are tough, and this is a small way we can care."
2. A group of volunteers went to a group home for developmentally disabled adults and built a fire exit for the home, painted rooms, and completely cleaned up the yard.
3. Another group wrote seventy-five cards to persons in a local low-income nursing home. These cards were actually made by members of our adult special education Sunday School class.
4. A group set up in the church parking lot offering free car maintenance checks to passing drivers.
5. A local apartment complex allowed a group of our volunteers to throw an outdoor party for the entire complex. We were able to provide hot dogs, a bounce ride, and multiple games for the children and teens of this complex to enjoy. Furthermore, the children from our church came and played as well. New friendships began and the party was a huge success.
6. During the apartment complex party, which was held at an apartment complex where English is not the predominant language, our mission team leader led a group to each apartment and helped many of the residents change the batteries in their smoke alarms.
7. Persons representing fourteen different nationalities were served as a part of the Mission Possible day.
8. Finally, the varsity football team from Tucker High School (pardon me, the 2008 AAAA State Champion Tucker High School football team) came to our fellowship hall, and we had the privilege of preparing, serving, and cleaning up after their pre-game meal.
These are some of the acts of service that happened on our Mission Possible day. The best news from the day, however, is that the people of our church began to understand that our community is our calling. We exist to love our community with the full embrace and friendship of Jesus. My hope is that we will never again see what goes on inside our church walls as our primary focus.
Randy Shepley is blessed to pastor the people of FBC Tucker, which is three miles from the subdivision where he grew up. He has been married to his wife, Alice, for twelve years and is the father of James, Samuel, and Elizabeth.
Friday, January 23, 2009
$27 that Changed the World
Have you heard about microfinancing? Do you know about the "banker of the poor?"
"Sometimes, a small amount of seed money is all it takes to break the cycle of poverty. The growing microfinance movement is planting seeds of health and financial independence around the world, and both borrowers and investors are reaping the benefits. "
"In the early 1970s, a young economics professor returned to his native Bangladesh after earning a degree at Vanderbilt University on a Fulbright scholarship. The professor, whose name was Muhammad Yunus, soon found a teaching position in the port city he’d grown up in, at Chittagong University. But beyond the city limits, a famine was sweeping the countryside. The elegant theories of his textbooks, Yunus discovered, seemed increasingly irrelevant next to the widespread desperation of the poor. "
"In search of a better understanding of what was happening, Yunus ventured into a nearby village, where he met women surviving on the profits from bamboo stools, which they made and sold for pennies a day. Their profits could be greatly increased, they told him, if they were not indebted to the local lender, who loaned them the money to buy their supplies and also bought their finished stools at a set price. "
"To help the women pay off their debts and buy a supply of their own materials, Yunus loaned 42 villagers a total of $27. No longer in debt to the lender and able to sell their stools to the highest bidder, the women increased their daily profits from a few cents to more than a dollar."
Read more of this story and the larger project:
http://www.heifer.org/site/c.edJRKQNiFiG/b.4860827/
"Sometimes, a small amount of seed money is all it takes to break the cycle of poverty. The growing microfinance movement is planting seeds of health and financial independence around the world, and both borrowers and investors are reaping the benefits. "
"In the early 1970s, a young economics professor returned to his native Bangladesh after earning a degree at Vanderbilt University on a Fulbright scholarship. The professor, whose name was Muhammad Yunus, soon found a teaching position in the port city he’d grown up in, at Chittagong University. But beyond the city limits, a famine was sweeping the countryside. The elegant theories of his textbooks, Yunus discovered, seemed increasingly irrelevant next to the widespread desperation of the poor. "
"In search of a better understanding of what was happening, Yunus ventured into a nearby village, where he met women surviving on the profits from bamboo stools, which they made and sold for pennies a day. Their profits could be greatly increased, they told him, if they were not indebted to the local lender, who loaned them the money to buy their supplies and also bought their finished stools at a set price. "
"To help the women pay off their debts and buy a supply of their own materials, Yunus loaned 42 villagers a total of $27. No longer in debt to the lender and able to sell their stools to the highest bidder, the women increased their daily profits from a few cents to more than a dollar."
Read more of this story and the larger project:
http://www.heifer.org/site/c.edJRKQNiFiG/b.4860827/
Sunday, January 11, 2009
Life Changed By Asking "Should I Do the Jesus Thing?"
Here's a story I like about a carpenter in Hawaii who sees a homeless guy.
Utu Langi had led a tough life. He'd run the streets, stayed in trouble, sold drugs, and spent time in prison. Langi was trying to get his life back in order, and was working as a carpenter. He sees the homeless guy as he's driving home from work, and pulls an old blanket off his tools after he asks himself, "Should I do the Jesus thing?" The encounter changed Langi's life. For the full story see http://www.umportal.org/article.asp?id=4663
What needs do you see in your part of the world each week?
Has something gotten your attention and you asked "Should I do the Jesus thing?"
How can God meet the needs of your community through the skills, background, and abilities you have?
Utu Langi had led a tough life. He'd run the streets, stayed in trouble, sold drugs, and spent time in prison. Langi was trying to get his life back in order, and was working as a carpenter. He sees the homeless guy as he's driving home from work, and pulls an old blanket off his tools after he asks himself, "Should I do the Jesus thing?" The encounter changed Langi's life. For the full story see http://www.umportal.org/article.asp?id=4663
What needs do you see in your part of the world each week?
Has something gotten your attention and you asked "Should I do the Jesus thing?"
How can God meet the needs of your community through the skills, background, and abilities you have?
Friday, December 19, 2008
Child Slavery in Nepal
An American women in retirement years has found her life calling for this stage in her life and started the Nepalese Youth Opportunity Foundation to keep girls out of slavery and in school. Learn more about the community activism which is rescuing poor girls and giving them new opportunities in life.
http://www.pbs.org/now/enterprisingideas/nyof.html
http://www.pbs.org/now/enterprisingideas/nyof.html
Thursday, December 4, 2008
Community Event As a Christmas Gift
Back in the 1980's & 90's Crawfordville GA was known for offering a country Christmas extravaganza featuring lights, eat some food, and have a country Christmas celebration. Christmas in Dixie it was called. And it was equal measure of both! The event lasted a month and was a big deal in the area, a must attend event, and good family fun that many throughout the region enjoyed. Folk from Atlanta to Augusta, Athens to Macon would drive in for a tradition that could only be experienced as words just wouldn't adequately capture the sights and sounds!!
Check out a great country Christmas event at a church I served for a couple of years where we picked up elements of that tradition. This is a great time for parents or grandparents with Children, though Youth and College students will also find this a fun little road trip. See directions at the end of note for this church down I-20 just beyond Thomson GA. Share this note with other churches and families in the area as this fun deserves strong regional support. Proceeds help the church to continue this gift to the community.
Macedonia United Methodist Church is located ¼ mile off the Camak exit on I-20 on Highway 80 North. From Thomson travel Cedar Rock Road approximately 7 miles just beyond the intersection with Highway 80 near the Camak I-20 exit. For more info, call office at 465-9607.
Check out a great country Christmas event at a church I served for a couple of years where we picked up elements of that tradition. This is a great time for parents or grandparents with Children, though Youth and College students will also find this a fun little road trip. See directions at the end of note for this church down I-20 just beyond Thomson GA. Share this note with other churches and families in the area as this fun deserves strong regional support. Proceeds help the church to continue this gift to the community.
Macedonia United Methodist Church
Presents the 8th Annual“Christmas at Cedar Rock”
December 11, 12 & 13, 2008, 6:30 – 9:00 p.m.
- Enjoy a the sights and sounds of Christmas with a complimentary hayride through thousands of lights, displays, Bethlehem Village and a live Nativity Scene.
- Have that special talk with Santa (Pictures available at a reasonable cost).
- Visit the “Kids Only” shop - children 12 & under can purchase gifts for family and friends for $1 each – gift wrap included.
- Visit the animals in our petting zoo.
- Browse the “General Store” – handmade crafts, homemade baked goods, preserves and jams, jewelry, gift baskets and Christmas decorations.
- Don’t forget to get some boiled peanuts before you leave!
Macedonia United Methodist Church is located ¼ mile off the Camak exit on I-20 on Highway 80 North. From Thomson travel Cedar Rock Road approximately 7 miles just beyond the intersection with Highway 80 near the Camak I-20 exit. For more info, call office at 465-9607.
Thursday, November 20, 2008
Teenage & Young Adult Community Activism
I really enjoy a variety of news and information sources. That's one reason I like the internet. I often catch BBC news which always surprises me with "world news" that I don't hear anything about in most U.S. coverage. I also like some of the PBS shows like Independent Lens. Last night I saw a documentary by three teenagers from the Swinomish Tribe in Washington state. They had gotten into trouble with drugs and alcohol while living on the reservation, and part of their treatment was to make a documentary about their life on the rez, including the impact of a nearby oil refinery on their way of life. It really shows an exploration of the impact of an industry on a local ecology, yet also offers a clearer understanding develop as the teens seek to tell their story, and must confront the larger world in both Olympia and Washington D.C. as they seek answers and seek to be heard. The movie and process was aided by MARCH POINT, a group serving as a collaborative film making effort between media professionals and Native youth telling their own story and the story of their tribe.
Look this movie over at the link below, and then imagine a similar project coming out of Harrisburg, or Bethlehem, another part of Augusta, or perhaps a nearby rural community.
http://www.pbs.org/independentlens/marchpoint/
Look this movie over at the link below, and then imagine a similar project coming out of Harrisburg, or Bethlehem, another part of Augusta, or perhaps a nearby rural community.
http://www.pbs.org/independentlens/marchpoint/
Monday, October 13, 2008
URGENT Local Mission Needs in Augusta
There are a number of "hands on" local needs that I'm aware of today that you, your family, or your group might help out. I spent an hour this morning with an assistant principal at the Academy of Richmond County. The school website and officials would say something like:
"ARC, chartered in 1783, is the oldest educational institution in the State of Georgia and one of the oldest in the nation. It officially opened in 1785 as a private school then became a military school after the Civil War. ARC is now a public school with a student population of over 1500."
ARC is located near our church and in a midtown location of Augusta just off of Walton Way.
We're creating a partnership to help the school, the students, and the community and I need your help!
TUTORS- are needed for 9th grade students in basic, core classes. Many students are coming into 9th grade without the necessary skills to succeed so we are working together with more one-on-one attention to help them succeed. Tutors may work with a student anytime during school hours or after school Wednesday or Thursday. College students, retirees, and/or anyone who might be interested in working with a student each week would be welcomed and in a relationship which might be life changing!
For more information contact Rev. Scott Parrish at Trinity on the Hill UMC or Mrs. Renee Kelly at ARC.
"ARC, chartered in 1783, is the oldest educational institution in the State of Georgia and one of the oldest in the nation. It officially opened in 1785 as a private school then became a military school after the Civil War. ARC is now a public school with a student population of over 1500."
ARC is located near our church and in a midtown location of Augusta just off of Walton Way.
We're creating a partnership to help the school, the students, and the community and I need your help!
TUTORS- are needed for 9th grade students in basic, core classes. Many students are coming into 9th grade without the necessary skills to succeed so we are working together with more one-on-one attention to help them succeed. Tutors may work with a student anytime during school hours or after school Wednesday or Thursday. College students, retirees, and/or anyone who might be interested in working with a student each week would be welcomed and in a relationship which might be life changing!
For more information contact Rev. Scott Parrish at Trinity on the Hill UMC or Mrs. Renee Kelly at ARC.
Friday, August 1, 2008
Nonprofit Medical Clinic
Part of my work finds me involved with community development issues. That has drawn me into the world of nonprofits and the affiliated ministries and partnerships which may emerge when need and opportunity cross paths. So, a few of us are starting a medical clinic group and a community development group. Anyone interested in learning more, sharing your experiences, or helping with funding are welcomed to join the excitement.
Here's an upcoming event for anyone interested in health ministries within a church or for those interested in medical clinic work to meet the needs of the uninsured or underinsured.
http://www.gbophb.org/UserFiles/File/events/emp_min2008.pdf
Here's an upcoming event for anyone interested in health ministries within a church or for those interested in medical clinic work to meet the needs of the uninsured or underinsured.
http://www.gbophb.org/UserFiles/File/events/emp_min2008.pdf
Tuesday, July 22, 2008
Mission Outpost
Did you hear this NPR story yesterday? A lot of great concepts employed by a jazz nonprofit in New Mexico. I heard a variety of elements in this story which might transfer to other arenas. Check it out and consider for yourself.
http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=92670088
http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=92670088
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