Announcements

What will happen to some 15 million analog TV sets rendered obsolete after the transition to digital transmission on February 17, 2009?

According to the Consumer Electronics Association, 25% of them will be recycled. That’s good news because just one TV can leak eight pounds of lead into the environment. Visit CEA’s website at www.mygreenelectronics.org or go to www.earth911.org to find a recycling center that offers a TV recycling program. Or contact the U.S. Environmental recycling hotline at 1.800.253.2687.

Article taken from AARP Bulletin May 08 vol. 49 No. 4

Each year during the National Volunteer week the contributions of time and talents made by volunteers is acknowledged.

The volunteer Department of Presbyterian Homes would like to thank Will Littell from the United Methodist Church. He gave his time and demonstrated his caring nature by visiting residents and participating with them in activities. Will, you made a difference in the lives of our residents. Thank You!

Sincerely,
Pat FiorioDirector,
Volunteer Services

Please come rain or shine.....
Summer Sunday School is every Sunday
Grow in body and wisdom all summer long with the parables from the Gospel of Matthew and more....

Matt, Julie and Nora Sipe’s last Sunday at First Church was Sunday, May 11. Matt has been appointed to be the pastor at Delano United Methodist Church in Delano, Minnesota. Blessings To You!

Peace with Justice Sunday was celebrated Sunday, May 18. A special offering was collected giving the United Methodist Church a voice in advocating peace and justice at home and around the world.

Mothers for Missions

All funds raised will be donated to Marcy Newberry’s Infant Childcare Program for needy families. Marcy Newberry is a National Mission Institute of the General Board of Global Ministries of the United Methodist Church.
Ann Sayre Christian gave in honor RuthAnn Sayre
Emerson and Marilynn Fisher gave in honor of Jeanette Fisher and Mrs.
Judy DeAcetis gave in honor of Jinny DeAcetis
Jean Unsen
Bonnie and John Morell gave in honor of their Mothers

Dorothy Silver gave in memory of Thelma Silver
Barbara Zeleny gave in menmory of Helen Zeleny
Caroline Uhlig gave in memory of Ruth Talmage and Dorothy Uhlig
Norm and Pat Gates gave in memory of their mothers
Irving and Grace Roberts gave in memory of their Mothers
Caroline Brinkerhoff gave in memory of Myra Pennewell
Esther Circle gave in memory of Mora Barrows and Dee Moore
Pat Lester gave in memory of Inez A. Taylor
Barbara Sides gave in memory of Harriet Hulse

Compassionate Service

The Children gather to practice a special sending forth blessing prayer for Pastor Matt and his family.





Preparing the Sanctuary “during construction” for a joyous May 11 Worship service celebrating Pentecost, Confirmation and Mother’s Day.






Prayer Shawl Ministry will be meeting Monday, June 2, 16 and 30 at 1:00 pm in the church parlor. Your help is needed to: share stories, needle, pray and deliver. Interested in attending or would like to learn to knit or crochet, call Marilynn (847.692.4656) for more information.

The Humboldt Park meals ministry project serves a meal to those in need at the Humboldt Park United Methodist Church on the third Sunday of each month, on Christmas Day and Easter Sunday. Meals are cooked in our kitchen and delivered to Humboldt Park. Individuals, couples, families, and church groups are encouraged to support this program by signing up to be a team leader and/or volunteer. Team Leaders and volunteers are needed for the following dates: June 15 and July 20. A sign-up sheet is at the Grant Place entrance, or you can contact Joyce Van der Kloot at 847.698.3273 to reserve a date for your group to cook a meal.

Meaningful Volunteer Experience at Bethany Terrace, 8425 N. Waukegan Rd., Morton Grove. The Terrace is a faith-based, non-sectarian health and rehabilitation center which uses volunteers to bring joy to residents. Lots of flexibility in our volunteer needs for individuals and groups. Call Mila Gallardo, Director of Activities and Volunteers, at (847) 965-8100.

June 16-19, 2008

Vacation Bible School - Opportunities for Everyone!

St. Mary’s Episcopal Church (SMEC), Park Ridge Community Church (PRCC), and the First United Methodist Church (FUMC) are once again thrilled to be working together to make Vacation Bible School a memorable experience for children and families. Two years ago, Aslan on the Move made its debut based on the Narnia tales by CS Lewis. Characters such as Tumnus, Mr. and Mrs. Beaver, Aslan, the Professor and the White Witch left lasting impressions on the children.

With the release of Prince Caspian, a sequel to Narnia, we are inspired to offer Return to Narnia-Prince Caspian as this year’s VBS theme. Beginning Monday, June 16th thru Thursday, June 19th children will once again travel to Narnia. Each day VBS is held from 6:30 to 8:00pm at the Park Ridge Community Church for children preK through entering 6th grades. The preschool program will use age appropriate curriculum and activities for 3-4 year olds. Registration must be returned to any of the 3 churches by Sunday, June 8th. Checks should be made payable to Park Ridge Community Church. Financial assistance is available upon request.

We are excited about offering 2 great options for adults this year. Adults are invited to:

1) Attend “Christian Stories for Adults” Monday-Wednesday evenings from 6:55 to 7:50pm at the First United Methodist Church, 418 Touhy. Rev. Bob Campbell, an ordained Methodist minister and currently on assignment at the Willows Wellness Center, will lead informal, lively discussions.

Or 2) Volunteer as a teacher, helper or actor for the children’s program. Just give us a call! As an added bonus, we have arranged with the Pickwick Theater for 2 special showtimes of Prince Caspian.

Plan to go to the movies to see Prince Caspian with VBS friends on Saturday, May 31st at 5pm or Sunday, June 1st at 2pm for a special price of $6 per person which includes admission, a drink and popcorn. Tickets are available in church offices or contact one of the people listed below. Tickets will be handed out during the Memorial Day Parade on Monday, May 26th by Narnia characters, too.

We look forward to seeing you at the movies and for Return to Narnia-Prince Caspian on June 16th! Tell your friends! Fire up for a VBS like never before! VBS changes lives!

Thank you.

Catherine Petersen
FUMC
418 Touhy Ave
847.825.3144

Kristen Wilson
SMEC
306 S. Prospect

Stephen Cady
PRCC
100 S. Courtland

Confirmand Faith Statement

I believe in God. I have been going to a United Methodist Church since I was 6 years old. This is where I learned to believe in God.

When I really saw God for the first time it was with the Youth Group on a mission trip to a poor neighborhood in Chicago and we helped at the Marcy-Newberry Center. This is a place supported by our church that helps the less fortunate children. It was there that I saw the face if God in the eyes of children.

I believe in God’s grace. It is a gift God gives to everyone. I believe in the Holy Spirit who us in my light even on the darkest days.

I believe God created the world with all the animals, trees, water and people. I think the song “Sanctuary” brings me closer to God, and makes me think of who He is. I think praying to God has helped me with the death of my aunt. Praying brought me comfort through that hard time in my life.

I believe in Jesus Christ. I believe He died on the cross to forgive our sins and rose on the third day then went into heaven. I believe Jesus is a gift from God. I believe He performed many miracles throughout his life and healed many people.

I believe in the Holy Spirit. Although I am not sure what or who the Holy Spirit is, I will continue my search for that answer as I grow in my faith. But, I do believe the Holy Spirit is with us at all times, helping us in times of need.

I believe in trinity; creator, redeemer, sustainer.

I believe that God created the heavens and thr earth and everything in them, Sometimes I question myself on that one. I guess I assume things just happened this way. Then I think how could they? How could things evolve so purposefully, so naturally? Then thay is when I know there had to be a catalyst. That catalyst is God.

I know that Jesus loves me. I believe that Jesus loves all of us. He loves believers and non-believers alike. I believe Jesus is God’s son and God put Jesus here to show us the way. I believe Jesus is our true leader and is the definition of life. I believe Jesus forgave us our sins and did so, possibly, so we could save ourselves.

I believe in the Holy Spirit. I believe it is in every strand of clothing; it permeates every barrier, and is in our very breath. I believe the Holy Spirit is just the presence of God. I believe it is in everything, everywhere, everyday.

I believe God formed me. I believe God is in me. I believe God is a part of me and always will be. I believe God put me on this planet for a reason. I think that reason is to lead others. I believe that reason is also to teach others. I believe God put everyone on this planet for a reason. I think everyone has their own reason but, we share a common reason; to share the love of God. I believe we are all here for the benefit of each other. I believe I am supposed to teach and be taught. I also believe the same goes for everyone else.

I believe it is hard to describe exactly what it is I believe.

Sharing Our Faith Stories

Big thanks to Laurie Bachmann and Dorothy Silver for their Faith Stories and compassionate service around the globe. Our children are in mission because of people like them.

Spiritual Growth

LIFE Groups are the heartbeat of First United Methodist Church. They are small groups that meet weekly in homes or at church to study the Bible, to spend time in prayer, and to connect with others in ministry. Being a part of a LIFE Group provides fellowship experiences that enrich and equip one’s walk with Jesus Christ. A growing number of people are developing lasting friendships as they follow God’s Spirit through a LIFE group. For more information about this vital ministry of First United Methodist Church, contact Pastor David Jungnickel at (847.825.3144) or by email at djungnickel@parkridgeumc.org

Pairs & Spares

Pairs & Spares Scheduling Changes! If you’ve not finished with your current group, that’s OK! Our change is going to allow us to create our groups in June and January. Your current group should finish up in early June and you’ll be getting your new “Pairing” letter in May and the following one in December. We think the new schedule will make it easier to complete your dining schedule with your group. Look for your new “Summer” letter later in May. Again, we assume members will remain and ask everyone to invite a new “pair” or “spare”. Call Rick or Suzanne Stanits with questions at 847.685.0685.

Time of Fellowship

Please join for a Time of Fellowship at 10 am in the church parlor! Small groups, UMW circles and ministry teams sign-up to serve Sunday morning.

Esther Circle May 25
Worship June 1
Lydia Circle June 8 and 15
Priscilla Circle June 22 and 29

Flowers, Tea & Treasure

United Methodist Women present
FLOWERS, TEA & TREASURES
Sunday, June 29, 2008

1 pm ~ Garden Walk
3 pm ~ Tea and Tidbit at the church
1-5 pm ~ Silent Auction
(do not need to be present to win)

$15 donation for all 3 events
Proceeds go to UMW missions work
Tickets available for purchase during Sunday morning Fellowship
or from the church office.

If you have items to donate for the silent auction, bring them to the office or call Connie Bruce for pickup at 847.823.5431. Please no clothing or books.

Welcome New Members

Matt and Sara Spears were welcomed into membership at the 9 am Service on May 18. They have two children, Ashley who is 8, and Ian who is 7. Matt & Sara were previously affiliated with the Glen Ellyn United Methodist Church.In fact, they were married at that church. The Spears family have been attending 1st UMC for some time. Both of their children have been baptized at 1st UMC.Matt is employed in the consulting industry and Sara works in the Insurance industry.

Congratulations Graduates!

David Jungnickel and Matt Sipe graduated from Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary in Evanston. Congratulations David and Matt!

Celebrations!

Abigail Mendoza and her family have returned from Disney World and had the time of their life thanks to Make A Wish. Princesses even ran through the airport with the family to get them on the plane at 6am! :)




Virginia Rainey is the proud Grandmother of new grandson Mark born on May 7 to her son Norman and his wife Linda.


Congratulations to our Confirmands! Confirmation Sunday was celebrated May 11. Pictured from left to right are: Pastor John Alan Boryk, Sarah Kerin, Joey Gagliardi, Briana Jungnickel, Kyle Richardson, Brett Warner, Shawn McLaughlin and Pastor David Jungnickel.

Parish Coordinator

Dear Friends,

Years ago, fresh out of college, my dream to join the Peace Corps and see the world was derailed. Seeking an alternative route to adventure, I became a flight attendant for Delta Airlines, moved from Atlanta to Chicago and spent the next 22 years travelling extensively. What a wonderful education that was!

Being ever hungry for more education, I turned to the study of law under the false impression that “Environmental Law” involved saving whales and wetlands. Boy did I ever get an education- be careful what you wish for….While flying and attending law school at the same time, I learned the difference between what I needed and what I wanted – clean clothes and hot meals are not necessary for survival. I learned that down time is necessary for my sanity. I learned who my true friends are and that family is an invaluable treasure. I also learned that God is an unlimited source of strength.

After passing the bar exam, I was still learning as I practiced general law and focused my pro bono work on battered women. Unfortunately, I never learned to adequately balance flying, practicing law and living simultaneously. In March 2006, I accepted Delta’s offer of a voluntary furlough.

I haven’t looked back since….. I have, however, looked for gainful and meaningful employment. On January 2, 2008 I found it. (This is the part where ya’ll come in.) Five short months later, I am pleased to report that I love my job here at UMC and I’m even happier to report that it’s the people I work with and for who are the source of my pleasure.

I look forward to meeting each every one of you.

Blessings,
Mary

Offering Prayers of Hope and Healing

WE LIFT IN PRAYER

The family of Florence Schmunk. A memorial service will be held May 24 at 1:00 pm in Jorgeson Hall with refreshments to follow in the parlor.

Those affected and responding to the China Earthquake and the Myanmar Disaster; Our Troops and their families; Abigail Mendoza; Wyrta Heagy; Red Byrne; Tim Fanning and family; Jean and Ralph Bachmann; Rev. Dorothy Fellhauer; Catherine Petersen’s father Bob; Andrea Thomas; Gail Kellberg’s friend Donna; Eddie Wendling’s grandparents; Paul Ekern recovering at Rush North Shore Medical Center; James Rhodes; Deb Hill’s Uncle Bob; Ralph and Ramona Bishop’s son-in-law Curt Towne who is ill; Alice Crawford’s brother Warren; the PADS Homeless Shelter at St. Mary’s Church.

2008 Vacation Bible School

RETURN TO NARNIA: PRINCE CASPIAN
VBS DATES: June 16-19, 6:30-8pm
Park Ridge Community Church
St. Mary’s Episcopal Church
First United Methodist Church

Special Screening at the Pickwick
CHRONICLES OF NARNIA: PRINCE CASPIAN
Saturday, May 31, 4 pm
* Sunday, June 1, 1 pm

$6.00 includes Admission, Popcorn, & Small Drink


* Special All Church FUMC Event
Following the movie on Sunday, June 1, all are invited to FUMC for ice cream in the parlor.