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Please be aware that both our organist and choir director have full time jobs outside of their church music ministry and are not available for funerals or weddings on weekdays.
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As all faithful United Methodist Christians of Epworth know, ordained clergy are appointed on an annual basis.
I have received our appointment information from our District Superintendent, the Reverend David Hockett that the Reverend Bill Roberts will be appointed pastor of Epworth in the Metro District, effective July 1, 2021.
I invite you to give thanks for what God has done during Pastor Sonny and Sharon’s tenure with us. I invite your prayers of support for the Staff-Parish Relations Committee and our congregation as we prepare for our transition of pastoral leadership.
Per UMC protocol, as SPRC chairperson, I will be point person in assisting our clergy leaders and members during the transition.
Peace,
Karen Kaser-Odor
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Saints of Epworth,
For a little shy of 250 years, Methodist clergy have been itinerant (moving from parish to parish) to respond to the changing needs of diverse parishes. Coming out of the pandemic, every church in the country will be “beginning anew,” and I truly believe that churches with newly-appointed ministers will be best situated to develop new ways to reach a very different, post-pandemic society.
Beginning July 1, Rev. Bill Roberts will be Epworth’s newly-appointed clergy leader. I could write for hours about Bill’s talents and gifts, but I will simply declare to you that you will be immensely blessed by Bill as a leader, a minister, and as a friend.
More specifics on the pastoral transition will be shared ahead (i.e., moving days, Bill’s first day in the office, his first Sunday in the pulpit, my next appointment, etc.). Until then, know that Sharon and I have been blessed by every single day we have been with you in your love and in witnessing God at work among us.
For the future, I want to remind you of what you should know: Epworth UMC is gifted in ways that few local UM churches are, with great leaders of immense devotion to God, and in difference-making service to the community and the world. Yet, you are poised for even greater works ahead, which Bill will continue to remind you!
There are still many weeks before the pastoral transition and Sharon and I savor our opportunities to share our mutual “best wishes” (as eternal friends never say, “Goodbye”)! Know that we remain fervent in our prayers for you across all the days of our lives.
Pastor Sonny & Sharon
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There's still time (by the skin of your teeth)! We're publishing a special Mother's Day Tribute to be sent out on this Sunday morning - May 9! Send your photos and kind words about your mom, wife, friends or special ladies who have helped shape the fine human being you are. Content should be sent to Jen Hedrick at duhsciples@gmail.com or 704.932.9328.
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S U N D A Y . M A Y 9 . 2 0 2 1
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Worship with us on Sunday! Join us at re duced capacity in the sanctuary or via livestream. Our traditional service is at 10am. If you plan to be with us in person please allow yourself extra time to be checked-in and screened.
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It's time to lift up your mom and dad, spouse, friend or somebody who's been like a parent to you -- let them know how much you appreciate them putting up with your nonsense. We're putting together special Mother's Day and Father's Day tributes so make sure you score some brownie points and send your photos, stories and kind words to Jen Hedrick at duhsciples@gmail.com
Mother's Day . May 9
Submissions needed ASAP!!
Father's Day . June 20
Submissions needed by Wednesday, June 16
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National Police Week is May 9 - 15; a time set aside to honor men and women of law enforcement and to remember the officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty.
Epworth has agreed to participate in an effort to honor our local law enforcement called "Adopt-an-Officer." A card or thank-you note along with a gift card of up to $40 is a great way to express your appreciation.
If you're interested in participating contact Teresa Gray at  epworthchildren@epworthnc.com or 704.239.3811. She'll connect you with the name of an officer and handle getting your thank yous and gift cards to the community organizers. Items need to be returned to Teresa by May 8.
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S U N D A Y . J U N E 6
We'll be lifting up our high school and college graduates on Sunday, June 6 during worship. If you're a member of the class of 2021 we'd love to recognize your accomplishments and cover you in prayer. Use the link below to tell us a little about yourself.
Lastly, if you'd like to be included in our Graduate Recognition video, please submit up to 40 digital photos to Jen Hedrick by May 30. Photos can be shared to a platform like Google Drive or submitted via thumb drive.
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Dr. Glenn Myers served as pastor at Epworth from 2007-2013. His wife, Susan, has extended an invitation to invite us to help celebrate his well-deserved retirement in a couple of ways.
- A video is being put together for Glenn with well-wishes from congregations and friends across his career. The following is a message from his son, Jason Myers:
We are creating a video montage (or "Tribute") for Glenn Myers, who is retiring from full-time ministry on Sunday, June 27th, 2021. It will only take you a minute to film and submit your video, and it's easy to create on your mobile device or computer. It should make for an unforgettable and encouraging gift, that shares our collective love and appreciation. Thanks so much for being a part of this!
Sincerely,
Susan, Jason, and Robert Myers
| Questions to Answer in Your Video: |
- How has your life been impacted by Glenn Myers?
- What do you appreciate most about Glenn Myers?
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| To learn more and submit your video, click on the button below. It only takes a minute and you can do it from any device. |
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This week was Teacher Appreciation Week!
We sure are lucky to have the teachers we have at the Flock Preschool and the Learning Center!
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MAY SMILE PROJECT
Packets for the May SMILE Project are ready! If you signed up to receive card-making kits they can be picked up Friday, May 7 during Flock preschool / Learning Center times OR Sunday, May 9 between 9:30am-11:30am. This has been an wonderful way to keep in touch with our Epworth friends and spread lots of smiles along the way!
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MAY MESSY CHURCH
After months of waiting, we're excited to offer an in-person Messy Church on Sunday, May 23 from 4pm-5:30pm. May's theme is "Stand Up for Jesus!" based on scripture from Daniel 3. Join us for praise and worship, an obstacle course, tug-of-war, S'mores and crafts. This is a fun and interactive way to creatively grow in Christ together.
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CAMP MT. SHEPHERD
We have scheduled a week for day camp at Mount Shepherd - June 14-18. This week is for students K-6th grade (we've added 6th graders for those who missed out last summer). Day campers will meet at Epworth daily at 7am, head to Mount Shepherd on the church bus and return by 4pm each afternoon.
Cost is $150 for the week and includes all meals. Donations to cover fuel costs are much-appreciated.
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CAMP EPWORTH
Plans for Camp Epworth 2021 are in the works! We will offer 9 weeks of day camp for pre-school aged children and 8 weeks of camp for elementary children. Download overview and registration forms below.
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CAMP EPWORTH is looking for staff for preschool and elementary-aged groups this summer. Camp will be operating Monday through Thursday from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm, and there are a total of nine weeks of camp in June, July, and August. All applicants must go through the application and interview process, as well as a background check. Anyone who is interested in being on the Camp Epworth Staff should email Mrs. Teresa Gray, Director of Family Ministries at epworthchildren@epworthnc.com for more information and an application.
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SHOE DISTRIBUTION
We're excited to announce the return of the Back-to-School Shoe Distribution. The date is Saturday, August 14. We are currently raising funds to purchase shoes and supplies. Cost of shoes and a new pair of socks is $20. As we get closer to the event, we'll begin collecting school supplies as well. If you are able to financially support the shoe distribution, place your donation in the offering plate and note "Shoe Distribution." Thank you for your commitment to this outreach that supports children and youth in our community.
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Y O U T H M I N I S T R Y & S T U D E N T M I S S I O N S
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Beautiful Sunday hike at Morrow Mountain with DUH!SCIPLES and Frankie, the hiking weenie dog!
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SERVING ON SATURDAY
SAT. MAY 8 | 10am
Been on our donkeys way too long! Time to do some good stuff! Meet in back parking lot at 10am to accept your mission. Lunch is being provided by our fabulous hosts so PLEASE let Jen know if you plan on coming!
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DONKEY DAY
SUN. MAY 16 | 4pm
Ridiculous games, stunts and shenanigans to celebrate the donkey in all of us!
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GRADUATION SUNDAY
SUN. JUNE 6 | 10am
We will honor and recognize our 2021 graduates during worship. If you are a high school or college graduate please let us know so we can include you in this celebration of your accomplishments! Contact Jen Hedrick at 704.932.9328.
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SUN JULY 19 - FRI JULY 23
REGISTRATION OPENS MAY 16
It's literally the most fun you can have camping in a tent behind the church. There's so many ways we can make a difference right here in our own back yards by helping our neighbors with home repairs, yard work, odd jobs and being present in our community! Camp is geared for rising 6th graders - 12th graders (and ridiculously cool adults)! Friends are always welcomed!
NEED MINIMUM OF 10 STUDENTS REGISTERED TO HAVE BACKYARD.
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Congratulations to two of our own for being named summer staff with Carolina Cross Connection. Charlie Walker will be working with CCC's Urban Ministry in Asheville. Max Hedrick will be working with the Home Repair Ministry in western North Carolina.
Charlie and Max continue a long-standing partnership of Epworth students who have served on the staff of Carolina Cross Connection.
As part of their commitment, CCC summer staff are required to raise half of their salary through donations. Charlie's letter is posted below.
If you have questions for Charlie he can be reached at 843.687.3367
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SUGGESTED ITEMS FOR SHOP AND SHARE
- Cereal (sweet stuff like Honey Nut Cheerios goes quick)
- Canned Fruit (esp mandarin oranges & fruit cocktail)
- Canned Pasta
- Soup (esp tomato & chicken noodle)
- Canned chili (with and without beans)
- Peanut butter
- Jelly (grape)
- Snacks of any kind
- Cookies
- Pop Tarts
- Pudding cups
- Fruit cups
- Chips
- Snack bars
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 COOPERATIVE CHRISTIAN MINISTRY
FOOD PANTRY UPDATE
Our current big needs are:
- Cereal
- Peanut Butter
- Soup
- Canned carrots, peas, potatoes and mixed veggies
- Canned fruit
- Any dried beans
- Pasta Sauce
- Toilet Paper
As always, we especially seek low sodium items, no-added-sugar items, and whole grain items.
Right now, we have plenty of the following:
- Canned chicken and tuna
- Canned green beans and corn
- Canned Pinto Beans
- Spaghetti noodles
- Macaroni & Cheese
Thank you for the continued support from our church partners. Our Crisis Center at 246 Country Club Drive NE in Concord serves as the warehouse for most of the food.
- We will gladly accept all donations at that site from 10am - 1pm Monday through Friday.
- Bethel Baptist Helping Hands Food Pantry, located at 1209 1/4 Opal Street in Kannapolis, will gladly accept donations from 9 am to 1 pm on Monday and Thursday.
- The food pantry located at Westford UMC on Highway 49 and the Kannapolis Food Pantry at West Point Baptist Church can accept donations on Saturday morning from 8:30 am to 11:30 am.
- The Feeding Our Souls Food Pantry at Bethel UMC in Midland, and North Kannapolis Baptist Church Food Pantry will accept donations by calling the church in advance.
- The pantry at New Life Baptist Church is temporarily closed.
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FOR OUR MILITARY MEMBERS:
Mary Elise Capron Brandon Carson
Will Capron Brandon Cook
Zachary Capron Caleb Odom
Ben Carruth Ryan Tennis
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FOR OUR MEMBERS WITH HEALTH CONCERNS:
Joyce Baucom Bob Moss
Mike Bodenheimer Debbie Myers
Judy Bonkowski Shirley Nichols
Bill Chapek Ed Nimmo
Gary Dukes Jewell Parker
Rose Emerson Elizabeth Schavillie
Linda Widenhouse Fink Charlie Sehorn
Nancy Fisher Joanne Shepherd
Noah Goertzen Rachel Thomas
Carol Goodrich Betty Towell
Becky Holshouser Betty Wagner
Hannah Hughes John Watson
Sarah Hughes Carolyn Williams
Bob Lentz
Jake McClamrock
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FOR OUR MEMBERS WHO ARE RECOVERING
Peggy Caton Dean Humphries
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FOR OUR FAMILY AND FRIENDS
Pam & Doug Adams
Daughter/son-in-law of Marylyn Smith
Rob & Mae Aldrons
Friends of Epworth Hot Dog Ministry
Grace Alexander
Friend of Jane Hinson
Morris Anderson
Friend of Betsy Graham
Janet Barbour
Friend of Carol Blackwelder
Brian Barbour
Friend of Carol Blackwelder
Cindy Barfield
Friend of John Mitchum
Nancy Bebber
Friend of Carolyn Williams
Lisa Blackburn
Teacher at Flock Preschool
Jim Bonds
Friend of Kathy Taylor
Michael Breamer
Friend of Kathy Taylor
Jo Anne Bullins
Mother of Patty Randolph
Ricky Clatterbuck
Friend of Tiffany Carter
TJ Daniels
Husband of Courtney Daniels (Flock teacher)
Lisa Potter Eudy
Friend of Marilyn & Richard Burrage
Flynn Family
Friends of Nancy Fisher
Friend
Kathy Taylor
Friend
Connie Williams (Betty Wagner’s daughter)
Dave Goff
Father of son-in-law - Gaye Seifel
Karen Hopson
Niece of Betty Wagner
Chris Hopson
Great nephew of Betty Wagner
Chad Hudson
Grandson of Sis Mills
Dee Hutcherson
Friend of Nancy Fisher
Bill Jackson
Uncle of Kathy Taylor
Vicky Jackson
Aunt of Kathy Taylor (caretaker of Bill Jackson)
Sue Kirk
Friends of Hot Dog Ministry
Arden Lewis
Friend of Jenny Bodenheimer
Jeff Luther
Friend of Sjodahls
Lynda Lynch
Friend of Carolyn Williams
Nancy Matthews
Husband Jake is employed by IKE'S
Emily McGuire
Cousin of Betsy Graham
Morrow
Infant grandson of one of our Shop & Share friends
Charlie Mullis
Brother of Carol Blackwelder
MaryAnn Neilson
Former Epworth secretary
Kurt Randolph
Brother of Scott Randolph
Tim Reynolds
Son of Nancy Olive
Karen Rowland
Friend of Betsy Graham
Edna Shefield
Friend of Jane Hinson
Debbie Sides
Friend of Betsy Graham
Stephen Smith
Grandson of Becky Holshouser
Becky Thompson
Niece of Jean Lamb
Robby Tucker
Brother of Rick Tucker
Sherry Turner
Mother of Bethany Bostic
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Our heartfelt prayers and condolences to the family and friends of Larry Long (friend of Jim Parker).
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