A weekly newsletter from United Methodist Church of Lenox
A NOTE FROM THE PASTOR
Bishop's letter for Feb
It is my hope and prayer that as people of God we take time to examine our own understanding of radical hospitality.
These youth challenge us to ask ourselves: When we are volunteering at our church’s soup kitchen, food cupboard, or fund-raising dinner, do we take time to talk and build relationships with those who come through our doors?
I understand time is important. Are we willing to give some of what is so valuable so we can really talk to a stranger and, more importantly, listen to their needs, pains, and concerns? What is missing in our churches?
To see the entire letters, please go to the below link:
Bishop's announcement for New District Structure
On behalf of the Cabinet I am pleased to share with you our new district structure. As of July 1, 2020, we will have seven districts rather than the current nine.
1-Katahdin District – Rev. Dr. Jacquelyn Brannen – Maine is divided into two districts; these are the churches in the northern/Downeast half. 2-Many WatersDistrict – Rev. Dr. Karen Munson – Maine is divided into two districts; these are the churches in the southern/western half. 3-Green MountainDistrict – Rev. Jill Colley Robinson – The churches in Vermont. 4-GraniteDistrict – Rev. Taesung Kang – The churches in New Hampshire. 5-CommonwealthDistrict–Rev. Megan Stowe – The churches in Massachusetts west of Interstate 495. 6-Freedom TrailDistrict – Rev. We Hyun Chang – The churches in Massachusetts east of Interstate 495. 7-SeacoastDistrict – Rev. Dr. David Calhoun – Churches in Connecticut, Rhode Island, and Southeastern Massachusetts, including Cape Cod and Islands.
This realignment has been the work of many months and has been done with much prayerful consideration. I believe this new structure right-sizes our districts and aligns them more cohesively in terms of geography. It will also represent a significant cost savings.
At the same time, I am happy to announce the continuance of the Rev. Dr. David Calhoun for one more year. This decision was made through prayerful discernment and after completing the proper consultations in accordance with TheBook of Discipline.
David has been a valued member of the Cabinet for the past six years. I appreciate his pastoral and spiritual leadership of the current Connecticut-Western Mass District as well as his faithfulness to the Cabinet, especially as the Cabinet Secretary.
This is an exciting moment in the life of our Conference. But times of change are also times of challenge for us as human beings.
As in all things, our faith guides us in times of transition: “‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.’” – Jeremiah 29:11
Youth Group Gathering for February 8th, Saturday
In order to bring young generation in the church and raise them in God, we're planned to start the youth group ( Teenagers ) gathering and activities, hopefully once a month. we will play some games and have pizza and drinks. We expect you to invite your children, grand children or neighbors. For February gathering, we will meet on Feb 8th (Saturday) at 3pm at the church.
For the questions, you may ask to Pastor or Lisa Turner.
The Meditation Group will be having a very short meeting after service (in the Youth Room, if its available) on February 16, 2020 to discuss the logistics of our future meetings (where, when, how often and how long). The group is open to all who are interested, whether you currently meditate or would like to start. Please contact Chrystal Shelley for more information or with questions at cashelley@verizon.net or 413-448-6217.
February Mission Activities
Feb. 11 (Tuesday) - Valentine bags to be delivered to Barton's Crossing at 5. Leave from the church around 4:40. Please join us in this ministry if you have the time and interest.
Feb. 13 (Thursday) - Greeting Card Ministry at 12:30. Change of date for this month.
Feb. 16 (Sunday) - Selling soup after church for Youth Mission Trip.
Feb. 23 (Sunday) - Making soup for Soldier-On and Chili for Food Pantry. Starting right after church for anyone that wants to join us with helping hands and fellowship.
Feb. 27 (Thursday) - Share Soup and friendship with Soldier-On. Leave from the church around 3:30. Please join us in this ministry if you have the time and interest.
Feb. 29 & March 7 (Saturday) - Chili to be handed out to People in Food Pantry
Inspirational Words
Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love,
for I have put my trust in you.
Show me the way I should go,
for to you I entrust my life. Psalm 143:8