April Newsletter 2018
Prospect United Methodist Church
The Miracle Man’s Greatest Miracle
This Lenten season, as is fitting, we have turned our attention to creation’s Miracle Man…Jesus of Nazareth!
For nearly 30 years the one who crafted the universe with his voice, crafted furniture with his hands. He was good at what he did -- no crooked table legs ever came out of the carpenter’s shop in Nazareth. But Jesus was more than a master carpenter, he was also God incognito. For three decades, he kept his miraculous powers secret. But that changed, the day Jesus turned into the miracle man.
There are 34 distinct miracles highlighted in the Gospels, but John's Gospel only spotlights seven. John actually calls these miracles, “signs.” Why? Because, while he knows of all the other miracles, John believes that these 7 point to something bigger than the specific need they meet. They demonstrate powerful signs as to who Jesus is, and what Jesus came to offer…to all of us.
Each of the miracles we have studied so far has revealed a unique dimension of God's power and glory.
In John 2, the cabinet-maker becomes the winemaker. Like every other atom in the universe will water submits to its creator’s ultimate authority.
In John 4, Jesus heals a nobleman's son from a long distance away, revealing his Lordship over latitude and longitude.
In John 5, Jesus reverses 38 years of a man’s pain and suffering with one command.
In John chapter 6, Jesus introduces us to a whole new level of common core math, when he feeds 5000 people from a lunch box of only five loaves of bread and two small fish. 5+2 does not equal seven. It equals 5000, with a remainder of 12.
His encore? Just a few hours later, Jesus walks across the water on the Sea of Galilee.
In John chapter 9, there is more to the miracle than meets the eye. (Wink, wink) Jesus heals a blind man’s eyes, and also helps him see God's kingdom in a whole new light.
And just when you think you've seen it all, Jesus turns a funeral into a party, bringing his good friend, Lazarus, back to life in John 11. It is truly a sign of things to come.
Because the Miracle Man saves His greatest feat for last…
Good Friday will bring us to the cross where we confront the comprehensive brokenness of a sin-sick world and the redeeming love of God. We see our helpless estate and the power of God to bridge the chasm that separates us from Him. Good Friday ends in a dark tomb where we come face-to-face with our story and our desperate need of a miracle.
And then comes Sunday…with the miracle of Jesus’ resurrection! That miracle is also a sign. It’s a sign that the debt of your sin has been paid in full. It’s the sign that the power of God, made known through Jesus, has brought death to death and life to life. It’s our sign that the light of God’s love can shatter the darkness of our fear.
On Easter, we rejoice in the great news that “Christ is risen! Christ is risen! Christ is risen indeed!” And we rejoice in the reality that the Miracle Man has opened the doors for us to experience the “incomparably great inheritance” of this same miraculous sign…Resurrection Life!
Come, and be a part of the miracle with us!
<><, Pastor Steve
APRIL 2018 CALENDAR
Treasurer's Report
It has been an interesting year so far. We had a really nice time in Orange Beach, Alabama for the month of February. I would like to thank Bob Johnson (Dunlap) for paying the bills and keeping the lights on while I was gone. Our trip home was uneventful until we reached Dunlap. I am sure most of you know about our auto-tractor accident, and we are thankful for all of your prayers, cards, gifs, and Steve’s visit to the ER.
The financial obligations have been paid, as well as most of the mission budget. The remaining amount will be paid after we have Parade of Palms. Thank you to all of you who have helped make this possible by your giving thus far. Passing the pig was successful as far as buying the hams for the food baskets and thanks to Cory for getting a really good price per pound. The chicken noodle lunch was really tasty and raised $908.00 for the general budget. Thanks to all who helped with this great meal.
Mary Martha Cookie Sale was a success and that money will be used for their mission projects. Thanks to all of you that bought or provided cookies. If you have any questions about the finances of the church do not hesitate to ask me or any member of the finance committee.
Have a great Easter and the start to Spring. Bonnie Mankle, Treasurer
Thankful Hearts
Sunrise Service
Easter Breakfast
Easter Egg Hunt
Pre-Service Music
Easter Worship
He is not here, for He has Risen!
TRUSTEE SPONSORED ALL-CHURCH WORKDAY
NEW MEMBER SUNDAY
MOTHER'S DAY CARNATIONS
In celebration of Mother’s Day, May 13, 2018, all friends and members of Prospect are encouraged to help build the glorious bouquet.
Each carnation purchased at a cost of $1.00 will create the bouquet.
If you wish to order carnations, please download an order form from the link below. Copies will also be available in the gathering area on Sundays.
Last chance to order carnations will be Sunday, May 6th.
PUMC ANNUAL RUMMAGE SALE
Mark your calendars for Friday, June 29th and Saturday, June 30th from 8:00am-3:00pm, for our next Church Rummage Sale!
Please note: we will NOT be accepting items/donations until the week of the sale! You can drop off starting Sunday, June 24th!
HIGHWAY CLEAN-UP
Highway Clean-up Needs your Help!!!
Spring is here and May will soon arrive, too. The good weather means that Highway Cleanup time is upon us. For all of you new members and friends, PUMC is responsible for cleaning Cedar Hills Dr. From Knoxville/Rt. 40 to Bland Rd. (See map below.)
We need 6-10 people meeting in the Banner School parking lot at 9:00 a.m. for approximately 1 hour on usually the last Saturday of the month. If there is a Sunday School class or family that would like to do it as a group but at a different time/day, that is great -- just get in touch with Lois Yoches (243-5062).
The county supplies the neon, reflective vests and trash bags; each person should bring working gloves and sturdy shoes. The cleanup works best if one person stays on the top portion of the ditch and one covers the lower part so no one has to walk up and down the steep ditch.
Watch for dates to be posted soon!
NATIVE AMERICAN MINISTRIES SUNDAY
NATIVE AMERICAN MINISTRIES SUNDAY: April 22, 2018
Your gifts on Native American Ministries Sunday fund ministries that pave the way for those who aspire to serve Christ’s Church by making disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world.
When you support Native American Ministries Sunday, you equip seminary students who will honor and celebrate Native American culture in their ministries. And you empower congregations that are finding fresh new ways to minister to their communities with the love of Christ. Our Giving Allows Native Americans to Encounter, Worship and Serve Jesus.
Click the link below to learn more about this ministry.
EASTER BASKET RE-CAP
FOOD PANTRY NEWS
We could still use the following items: BOXED JELL-O, OYSTER CRACKERS, JUICE, RE-FRIED BEANS, SYRUP, BAKED BEANS, PEARS, POPCORN, BEETS, CANNED SPAGHETTI & MEATBALLS, and, as usual, TOILET PAPER.
Thanks again, for coming to the Pantry's rescue, regularly! -Gloria & Nancy
RED CROSS PLATELET DRIVE
PUMC is partnering with the Red Cross to bring a Mobile Apheresis Program to the Fellowship Hall on a monthly basis. Platelet donations are in high demand as they only have a lifespan of 5 days. If you are a regular blood donor, you can continue to donate whole blood and, in between your 56 days, donate Platelet Apheresis.
Our next drive will be on April 23rd. To make an appointment you can contact our Red Cross coordinator, Sue, directly at 636-4407. If you would like more information on platelet donation, please feel free to contact the office for additional brochures. Please make your appointment soon! Every person makes a difference!
CHADDOCK MISSION TRIP
Worship News
MUSIC NEWS
Over the months of April and May, I will be scheduling the summer “special music”. This is when different individuals have the opportunity to share some of their musical or creative gifts. Sometimes people sing; sometimes people play an instrument; sometimes people read a poem; or sometimes an interpretive dance. The possibilities are varied. But this is an opportunity grow deeper in your service.
Contact me, Kirsten Jones, at 309-361-5200 to set up a time to perform (or to share ideas). I’m willing to accompany you or help you learn a new song! All ages are welcome to share their gifts! Even the kids!
Our kids aren’t (or shouldn’t be) the only ones still in school. As a church that wants to help you grow deep in Jesus so that we can reach wide for Jesus, we believe that Bible study and small groups are essential for our individual and corporate lives. You can join at any time, there is always room for you!
KYLE SMALL GROUP at PUMC, 6:00PM every other Monday, open invitation, CO-ED
*April 9th and April 23rd
CAMILLA SMALL GROUP, Wednesday evenings @ 7:00 PM - Camilla’s house, women's group
*April 4, 11, 18 and 25
ADULT GROUP 10:15(-ish) Sunday mornings - Conference room, open invitation
BIBLE STUDIES: Christ and Coffee
Tuesday mornings from 8:30-9:30
Wednesday evenings from 6:00-7:00 (more details below)
(Feel free to contact the church if you're interested in starting/hosting a group at another time and/or location.)
BIBLE STUDY WITH PASTOR STEVE
Join Pastor Steve on Tuesday mornings from 8:30-9:30 for Breakfast with Jesus!
A 2nd helping of Coffee with Christ is offered on Wednesday evenings from 6:00-7:00.
It's never too late to join!
METHODIST MEN
The United Methodist Men will gather again on Monday, April 9th at 6:00pm in the Fellowship Hall. A light meal will be served. Lynn and Penny Kunkle will be joining us to discuss the Salvation Army.
Thanks to all for bringing eggs for the Easter baskets.
At our March meeting, Blue Ridge Community Farm came and told us about what they are doing for those with special need in the area. They have a amazing place.
Thanks to Gary and Johnny for a great meal.
All are welcome-young and old!!! Enjoy the good food & company! If there are questions, let Perry Camp know @ 309-678-5767 or pcamp1960@yahoo.com.
MARY MARTHA
Next Meeting: Monday, April 30th.
We chose the name Mary-Martha after we remembered the story in Luke 10: 38-42. Some of us in the group feel we’re like Martha moving from task to task. But we aim to be like Mary too, able to be still and learn from Jesus.
We give to Crittenten, Lessie Bates Neighborhood House East St. Louis, Cunningham Children's home, Silent Auction, Chaddock Christmas Child, 100% of our funds are given to mission.
PROSPECT BOOK DISCUSSIONS
Everyone is welcome to join us as we talk about the PUMC book of the month. You don’t have to say anything if you’d rather not. You don’t even have to read the book!
Our next meeting will be Thursday, May 24, 2018, at 6:30 p.m. We will discuss the book, I’ll Push You: A journey of 500 Miles, Two Best Friends, and One Wheelchair,by Patrick Gray and Justin Skeesuck, 2017, 312 pp.
We will meet again on Thursday, July 19, 2018, at 6:30 p.m. to discuss, Hillbilly Ellegy: A Memoir of a Family and Culture in Crisis, by J.D.Vance, 2016, 272 pp.
Questions? Suggestions for books to discuss? Contact Nancy Varness at 274-8124 or
ANNUAL DHS GRADUATION BREAKFAST AT PUMC
We would like to extend an invitation to anyone who might be interested in helping with the DHS breakfast to join Congregational Care at our next meeting on Sunday, May 6th following worship.
Youth News
FUEL NEWS
Hey Prospect!
For the month of April, we’ll be finishing up our series called “Going Fishing”, all about sharing our faith with others and what it truly means to be a fisher of men (or women)!
During Sunday morning Bible study, we’re going to be going through the book of Judges (every Sunday morning with the exception of Easter Sunday).
Thanks and God Bless! Evan Penn
YOUTH SCHEDULE
April 8th - Confirmation Sunday, Crockpot Cook-Off
April 8th - 6pm-8:45pm COMBINED Fuel
April 15th - 6pm - WyldLife & 7:45pm - Senior High FUEL
April 28th - 8:30am, Youth laying mulch
April 29th - 6pm - WyldLife & 7:45pm - Senior High FUEL
CONFIRMATION
CROCK-POT COOK-OFF!!!
If you would like to donate a crock-pot of food, email Evan at evan.penn@me.com.
There is a sign-up link below!
Loaves and Fish
Looking for a way to serve others this weekend?!
Join us on Saturday, April 21st from 9:30-1:30 @ Peoria First UMC!
Loaves and Fish is a weekly feeding ministry providing a free hot meal, food pantry, worship service, educational assistance, clothing room and medical clinic to those in need each Saturday. Begun in 1994, Loaves & Fish serves from 250 - 375 guests weekly.
This is a great ministry to involve your entire family! We would also love to see our youth involved! Let Evan, Pastor Steve or Dani know if you would like to come along.
Saturday, Apr 21, 2018, 09:30 AM
First United Methodist Church, 116 Northeast Perry Avenue, Peoria, IL, USA
Youth Bible Study
Sunday Mornings
9:45-10:45am
Confirmation Classes
Confirmation Sunday
Children's Ministry NEWS
WALK THROUGH HOLY WEEK RE-CAP
What a great time we had on Palm Sunday. Our kids marched into the sanctuary during the Choir Cantata waving palm branches to symbolize Jesus’s entry into Jerusalem.
Then we participated in a “Walk Through The Holy Week”, where the kids donned costumes of Biblical persons and our smaller children dressed as butterflies and bunnies.
CHILDREN'S MINISTRY NEWS
Miss Pam and Miss Amy continue to work with our Children’s Choir. What a joy it is to hear them perform.
Shortly, we will begin plans for our big summer event, Vacation Bible School and will be reviewing new curriculum for Sunday School.
Please feel free to contact Pat Campbell if you have any question, suggestions, or concerns. - Pat Campbell at 309-253-3979 or by email at mpcr4@yahoo.com.
PURPLE PANDA PRE-SCHOOL & AFTER CARE
Our preschool students have had a very fun March leading up to our spring break. Our 3 year olds and our Pre-K students spent March studying Dr. Seuss books and doing crafts and activities that go along with some of his most famous books, including the Cat in the Hat and Green Eggs and Ham! So much fun was had by all! Please check our Purple Panda Preschool Facebook page for pictures of recent fun activities in preschool. Upon returning from Spring Break on Monday, April 9, there are six weeks of classes remaining in the 2017/2018 school year. It doesn’t seem possible that this school year is rapidly drawing to a close. Registration is underway for the upcoming school year, we have one opening for 3 year olds in our Monday-Wednesday 3 day class and a few openings left for 3 year olds in our 2 day (Th-Fri) programs. As of this writing the Pre-K class is full but I am starting a waiting list for a 4 day afternoon Pre-K class.
Prospect After School Care is beginning a count down toward the end of the school year. Upon returning from Spring break, there will be nearly 2 months remaining until summer vacation. The children continue to enjoy movies on Fridays, playing the WiiU, arts and crafts, board games, building toys and designated study time (with study time available). We are looking forward to the warmer weather so that the children will be able to enjoy the many outdoor spaces provided by the Church and surrounding areas. Formal registration for the upcoming school year will begin in early May.
Please contact me through Dani in the Church Office at 243-7300 or e-mail me at pollard724@comcast.net if you have any questions or you would like a tour or if you are interested in enrolling a child in preschool.
Nikki Pollard—Director, Purple Panda Preschool & Prospect After School Care
APRIL BIRTHDAYS
Right Now Ministry (online small group and devotional resources)
Prospect subscribes to the RightNowMinistry (“the Netflix of Christian Bible study”) resource, which provides all of our members with access to 1000’s of video led curriculums including offerings specifically geared towards books of the Bible, Parenting, Marriage, Single Living, Men, Women, Teens, Children, Leadership and Finances from a Christian perspective, and more.
Contact Pastor Steve if you do not have access to the rightnowmedia.org site (or have forgotten your log-in).
BIBLE ONE YEAR READING PLAN
Click the link below to download the 52-week Bible reading plan!
Prospect UMC
Email: dani.pumc@gmail.com
Website: www.pumcdunlap.org
Location: 300 E Ash St, Dunlap, IL, United States
Phone: 3092437300
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DunlapProspectUMC/