At The Crossroads
February 2016 Newsletter from Crossroads UMC
Sanctuary Renovation is Coming Soon!
Dear Crossroads UMC family, I am pleased to finally announce that after waiting and waiting for many months, we will begin renovating the church sanctuary on Monday February 8th. The finances are restored from 2015 and we’re ready to get back on track and get this job done. It has been a long strange trip to get here as you’ll remember. Worship services will go on as scheduled each week at the same times. You’ll get to see the work in progress as we prepare for a new look by Easter March 27th.
As reported last year before we had to delay, the scope of work will address 5 major areas of improvement:
1) FUNCTIONALITY: Reconstruction of the worship platform, increasing usable space for both the Contemporary & Traditional worship services, as well as special events / VBS / concerts, etc. The reconstruction will include removable choir risers and chancel rails, which will make transition easier for special events. The surface of the stage will be raised, making Pastor, Praise Band, Choir, Children’s Message, etc., more visible to the congregation.
2) APPEARANCE: Painting of the walls in the entire sanctuary, and door near platform to a warmer color. Lighting Improvements – new chandeliers, wall sconces, and can lights – will provide more adequate lighting where needed, and a more worshipful ambiance.
Stone work on columns will give a sense of strength and special purpose to the room. (stained glass windows are not changing)
3) VIDEO: Two HD projectors hung at the front of the room will project on large stationary screens, one on either side of the choir loft. This will allow us to move computer to back of room, and not have the intrusive computer cables running across the aisle near the front row.
4) SOUND: New speakers and the installation of sound-absorbing acoustic panels on walls inside the sanctuary will greatly improve the sound quality of both the spoken and musical elements of our worship services.
5) THEATRICAL LIGHTING: Throughout this process, our committee considered options that would support our biggest outreach ministries, special services, and fellowship activities, including our VBS Theatre Camp, Christmas Cantata, special concerts, etc. Installation of unobtrusive lighting trusses along the tops of the column on each side of the space; power and control wiring would be installed; lights and accessories could be added later as needed.
This has been a long process. With the positive end to 2015, we have momentum to continue into 2016 with this project. The funds are there. The plan is in place. The timing for an Easter debut proved feasible after meeting with our contractors and vendors. I hope you’ll love what we are able to do in this space.
I am thankful for the worship space renovation committee for being patient and faithful over the last several months. Feel free to speak with any of the committee members with any questions you may have: Marty Boyd, Steve Brinson, Brenda Edwards, Mary Lynn Luke, Rev. Zack Martin, Lindsey Preiss, Chuck Reagan, Doug Smith, and Brandon Rose.
For those of you who recently joined the church or if you need a reminder what’s been going on over the last year and a half, scroll to the bottom of the Newsletter for the history of the project.
God is Good!
Stewardship Sunday
SPECIAL GUEST PREACHER
Church Events Coming Soon
WINTER JAM 2016
Sat., Feb. 6, 2016
Georgia Dome
Show Starts at 5:45PM
Tickets are $10.00
Please remember concession stand money for snacks!!
For more information contact Rachel Blanchette at RACHEL.BLANCHETTE@CROSSROADSUMC.NET.
CARPOOLING WITH EBENEZER METHODIST YOUTH GROUP!
Marriage Enrichment Group
On February 7th from 5:00PM—7:00PM in the Sanctuary, we’re starting back with our Marriage Enrichment Group. From newlyweds to empty nesters and blended families, anyone who wants to strengthen their marriage is invited to become a part of our monthly couples group. A typical evening includes light food, introduction to an insightful and fun couple’s exercise, and then a short time of reflection and discussion. RSVP for Childcare. Contact Rev. Zack Martin for more info at 770-388-7438 or zack.martin@crossroadsumc.net.
YOUTH SUPERBOWL PARTY
Sunday,February 7th at 5:30PM till HALF TIME!!!!
HOSTED BY
THE HANSON FAMILY
1780 New Street
Conyers, GA 30012
Please Bring A Snack Food To Share!!
Contact Rachel Blanchette at
RACHEL.BLANCHETTE@CROSSROADSUMC.NET for more information.
ASH WEDNESDAY
On Wednesday, February 10th at 6:00PM, come join us for a special worship service to prepare yourself for the Lenten Season.
LENTEN SEASON WORSHIP EXPERIENCES
This Season of Lent we are introducing 2 simple practices to heighten your worship experience on Sunday's February 14th until March 20th.
Prayers of Preparation
Silent prayer and meditation will be observed in the sanctuary 15 minute before each worship service. Feel free to fellowship in the hallways.
Closing Prayers
As the last hymn begins, there will be an invitation to come to the chancel rail for personal prayer time and almsgiving. It’s an ancient worship practice to present yourself to the Lord in a direct way (Luke 18:10ff). The good Samaritan offering plates will be there if you want to give alms. If you wish for the pastor to pray with you, then you can signal him to do so.
Ansel Adams Exhibit
Booth Western Art Museum
501 Museum, Cartersville, GA 30120
Thursday, February 18th
Meeting for carpool at CUMC by 9:30AM
(1 1/2 Hour Drive Please Be On Time)
Leaving Museum by 3:00PM
Contact Mary Jane Lea at maryjanelea@gmail.com.
Comprehensive exhibition featuring 26 key works by iconic photographer Ansel Adams set amongst works by his predecessors, peers and contemporary photographers. Includes photographs by Edward Weston, Dorothea Lange, Pirkle Jones, Al Weber, Bob Kolbrener, Robert Weingarten and many others including Atlanta photographers Peter Essick and John Mariana. An affiliate to the Smithsonian Institution, Booth Western Art Museum features contemporary Western art, a Presidential Gallery, Civil War gallery and Sagebrush Ranch interactive children’s gallery.
Wednesday Night Supper
Welcome Scot Ward on February, 21st
Scot Ward is the founder and president of Scot Ward Funeral Services. Scot has two daughters Megan, born in 1994 and Lauren, born in 1997. He lives in McDonough, GA and attends Buckhead Church in Atlanta. His daughter Megan attends North Georgia University and Lauren attends Union Grove High School. Scot often states that he has had some of the best role models a boy could have ever had, referring to his father and grandfather. They taught him a love for the Lord, a love for others and a desire to give back to the Lord and to the community that gives to you.
Welcome Scot and his wife as he fills in for Rev. Zack on February 21st
Ladies Bible Study
Now until Feb 28
3:30 pm - 5:30 pm
The Girl's Still Got It! Take a Walk with Ruth and the God Who Rocked
Her World by Liz Curtis Higgs. Read through this book and come for weekly video segments and discussion. Books available at Amazon.com and LifeWay bookstore.
For questions, contact Mary Jane Lea at maryjanelea@gmail.com.
PASTOR'S CLASS
Feb. 24th - Mar. 23rd
Wednesday’s at 10:00AM and 6:00PM
Head Scratchers: When the Words of Jesus Don’t Make Sense
Sometimes Jesus says things that make you scratch your head. Much of what Jesus has to say is uplifting or inspiring. But let’s face it: Sometimes Jesus says things that are confusing, perplexing, or even offensive. Join us in this 5 week study at two convenient times. Books cost $7. Contact zack.martin@crossroadsumc.net for more information .
Church Monthly Events
CLEO - Christian Ladies Eating Out
HAPPY HEARTS
Crossroads Men's Club
Men's Club has changed from Saturday mornings to Sunday mornings at 7:00AM!!
Our next meeting will be this Sunday morning February 7th at 7:00AM!Kids Club
Every Wednesday Night at 6:00PM in the Kids Room for kids K-5th grade, Kids Club introduces "Bible Black Belt: Scripture with a Kick". Come out on to earn a belt while you learn scripture. There will be a light snack supper, lesson scripture and games. Join us for lots of fun and fellowship. Contact ginger.peek@crossroadsumc.net for more information.
Crossroads UMC High School Hangout
The Youth High School students meet each Wednesday at 7:00PM, at Awake Coffee Community located in Olde Town Conyers. If you are interested in attending please contact Rachel Blanchette for more information at 810-300-0770 or rachel.blanchette@crossroadsumc.net.
Promise Keepers Breakfast
UMW Meeting Tuesday, February16th at 6:00PM
Visit www.unitedmethodistwomen.org for more information.
The Piecemakers
Men's Breakfast
Rockdale County Emergency Relief Food Bank.
- Don't forget on the 1st Sunday of the month we collect donations for the Rockdale County Emergency Relief Food Bank. If you would like to donate, please leave items on the cart in the narthex this Sunday, February 7th.
February Church Meetings
STAFF MEETINGS: February 3rd and 17th at 11:30am
FINANCE MEETING: February 21st at 2:30pm
CHURCH COUNCIL: February 21st at 3:30pm
BROAD OF TRUSTEES: February 23rd at 6:00pm
Upcoming Worship Information
Worship Volunteers
FEBRUARY 7TH
9:00AM
Scripture: Rosie Bucknor
Communion: Rosie Bucknor,
Joel & Nancy Crissman
11:00AM
Scripture: Jim Miller
Acolytes: Evan Boyd & Grant Priess
Communion: Diane Reagan, Debbie & Katie Carney
FEBRUARY 14TH
9:00AM
Scripture: Bruce Carney
11:00AM
Scripture: Diane Reagan
Acolytes: Hannah Hanson and Mallory Hammonds
FEBRUARY 21st
9:00AM
Scripture: David Copple
11:00AM
Scripture: Sandra Rodrick
Acolytes: Dawson Hammonds and Emily Page
FEBRUARY 28th
9:00AM
Scripture: Joel Crissman
11:00AM
Scripture: Susan Smith
Acolytes: Evan Boyd and Grant Preiss
Crossroads Shut-In List
Many of you have asked about our church members and friends who can no longer make it to Sunday Services and other fellowship events. Below is a current list with contact information if you would like to reach out to them. We ask that you keep them all in your prayers and thoughts.
Donna Peek
4421 Ga Hwy 20
Conyers, Ga 30012
770-483-7612
Barbara Finlayson
1502 Renaissance Dr. {Rm 1}
Conyers, Ga 30012
678-562-4068
Beatrice Hester
1811 Spring Street
Conyers, Ga 30012
770-483-8063
Ruby Straley
1611 Pratt Rd
Covington, Ga 30014
770-786-2599
Jimmy and Anne Jones
560 Edwards Rd
Oxford, GA 30054
770-786-7256
Louise Shirreffs
1360 Enchanted Lake Drive NE
Conyers, GA 30012
770-313-8411 or 770-313-6142.
Effe Ashong
1500 Callaway Loop
Conyers, GA 30012
770-760-1075
Anne Guest ( Rockdale HealthCare Rehab.)
Room: # 204-B
1510 Reniassance Dr
Conyers, GA 30012
770-483-4480
Shirley Rice
601 Breedlove Dr. #307
Monroe, GA 30655
770-207-6045
Nora Pelowski
1358 Manchester Dr
Bristol Village - Room 230
Conyers, GA 30012
Happy Birthday! February 2016
Peggy White 02/05
Priscilla Howell 02/06
Danielle Carey 02/06
Robbie Mumford 02/08
Katherine Edwards 02/08
Mallory Hammonds 02/08
Cecil Wheeler 02/09
Gwen Carroll 02/09
Antonio Zanatta 02/11
Melanie Page 02/11
Nora Pelowski 02/12
Ravi Koil 02/14
Bill Edwards 02/19
Charlene Hutson 02/20
Thomas Martin 02/22
Benny Atkins 02/24
Larry Compton 02/25
Brett Edwards 02/26
Brenda Ellis 02/27
Mary Lynn Luke 02/28
Worship Space Renovation Committee History
In the Beginning…
On February 24th, 2013 (almost 3 years ago) the Church Council of Crossroads UMC considered a comprehensive plan called “The Vision Quest”. That report was enthusiastically received and dozens of ideas and strategies were adopted to help our church “make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world”. These ideas coalesced around five main points. One of the points, Facilities Improvement, clearly became a major vision emphasis. Among the Facility Improvement goals was the hope of “Commissioning a design for a more modern Worship Center” (page 27, vision report).
The First Look
Soon after the vision was adopted, the Board of Trustees and Building Committee of the church met and considered the Facilities Improvement goals. A few renderings of a worship center and gathering space were brought before the committee. There was great uncertainty about funding the construction of another worship center and transitioning the existing sanctuary into a Fellowship Hall. Preliminary cost estimates placed the ideas far outside a budget committee members and trustees believed was possible at this stage in our Church’s growth.
The Second Look
In January 2014 the annual church-wide retreat lifted up the idea of creating a smaller gathering/fellowship space. The building committee met once again in August of 2014 to review the retreat ideas and work on a more cost effective solution. The committee revisited building new structure sanctuary in upper field or in gravel parking lot and converting current sanctuary into fellowship hall. Cost concerns were extremely high.
A smaller proposal from the retreat was to expand the existing front entrance outward to the parking lot for a narthex gathering area with a coffee/food service. The building committee determined that this design wasn’t feasible without moving existing utilities, water, and sewer lines.
As far as creating a more modern worship space, the Building Committee decided that renovations of existing facilities is more of a Trustees issue and a proposal would best be handled in that committee. The pastor nominated a Worship Space Renovation Committee to make a recommendation to the Trustees for consideration February 24 2014.
Evaluating Options for a Proposal
There have always been opinions about what to do with the existing sanctuary. The current audio design has been frustrating to musicians, board operators, and congregation members. Video presentation has not been well integrated into the worship service and presents a safety hazard. The chancel area has not been flexible enough for our ministry growth in the area of music and worship style. A professional worship consultant gave us objective direction on how to proceed.
The Worship Space Renovation Committee met in September 2014 and evaluated 20 pages of proposals from the consultant. The action items that emerged out of the discussion were to get renovation bids on: 1) Chancel Reconstruction, 2) Sound System Changes, 3) Lighting Changes, 4) Furnishings and Trim, and 5) Projection and Software.
The committee met 7 times over 6 months. Members of the committee brought focused proposals to the group. To grossly understate our many discussions, this process taught us that worship space improvement is complicated, has many components that are interrelated, and costs a lot of money. The original bids that came in over $100,000 were stripped down to what we could get for the biggest change, to meet the needs, for the lowest cost.
A Wonderful Gift
As the Worship Space Renovation Committee began meeting, a wonderful gift was given to the church in the amount of $50,000. It was to be used “to the glory of God” somehow in the church. The renovation committee believed a worship space renovation proposal would be in keeping with glorifying God rather than letting the funds go toward bills or ongoing maintenance.
The final proposal was properly before the Trustees of the church on February 24th, 2015. The vote was unanimous to proceed with the plans as presented. The renovation was ready to go, but a serious setback occurred.
The Finance Committee found an accounting error in early 2015 and a large portion of these funds were supporting our regular budget. The pastor tried to salvage the momentum for the renovation project by holding a church conference to allow access a portion of the $118,000 designated building fund money, but the consensus from the committee was to wait.
As you know, the Finance Committee corrected the reporting errors and started the long process of replenishing the funds. Fortunately, as I said earlier, the $50,000 for this project has been fully restored. We also paid our apportionments and other obligations by the end of the year.
Back on Track
With the positive end to 2015, we have the momentum to continue into 2016 with our project. The funds are there. The plan is in place. The timing for an Easter debut proved feasible after meeting with our contractors and vendors. I hope you’ll love what we are able to do in this space.
The construction will make some fundamental improvements, enhancements, and additions to our sanctuary, with a goal of providing a more modern and meaningful worship experience for our members and visitors. It is our hope that this small project could foster a renewed and invigorated interest in larger improvement projects. If you feel led to help give more breathing room in the renovation budget to add some items we cut out, then please make a note in your memo line on a check.
Respectfully Submitted,
Rev. Zack Martin
January 2016 Newsletter Deadline
The deadline to get information into the February 2016 Newsletter is THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 25TH by 2PM. Please submit all articles, information, and pictures to secretary@crossroadsumc.net or call 770-388-7438.
If you wish to receive a mailed copy of the church's monthly newsletter, please contact the church office at secretary@crossroadsumc.net or 770-388-7438.
Crossroads United Methodist Church
Office Hours
Monday - Wednesday - Thursday
9:00AM - 2:00PM
Email: secretary@crossroadsumc.net
Website: www.crossroadsumc.net
Location: 2460 State Highway 138, Conyers, GA, United States
Phone: 770-388-7438
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Crossroads-UMC-Conyers/227593134052091