The Church at Work

The Church at Work http://www.firstmethodistgrapevine.org/blog.aspx?site_id=10664&blog_id=271113 This blog contains stories of the church at work... thank you's from those who have been touched, report on mission projects, etc. EN-US Copyright © 2012 First Methodist Church Grapevine http://www.triplePixel.com Thu, 17 May 2012 14:00:00 GMT http://www.firstmethodistgrapevine.org/Content/10664/thumbnails/271113-rss-thumbnail.jpgThe Church at Workhttp://www.firstmethodistgrapevine.org/blog.aspx?site_id=10664&blog_id=271113 FUMC Grapevine This blog contains stories of the church at work... thank you's from those who have been touched, report on mission projects, etc. FUMC Grapevinemelissiam@fumcg.org no Thanks from St. Barnabas http://www.firstmethodistgrapevine.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10664&entry_id=300751http://www.firstmethodistgrapevine.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10664&entry_id=300751 Thu, 17 May 2012 19:00:00 GMT Back in April, a series of tornadoes devastated parts of the metroplex. One of the hard-hit areas was around St. Barnabas United Methodist Church in Arlington. Since the destruction, St. Barnabas has been worshiping off-site and working toward rebuilding their church. For May's Communion Offering, we collected funds to help in this effort. This note of thanks came in response to that gift:<br /> <br /> <blockquote style="margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; border: none; padding: 0px;">Dear John and the congregation of FUMC Grapevine,<br /> Thanks so much for your thoughts, prayers and your generous gift of $2,600 toward our reconstruction. We should be fully back in our restored building by early September. We meet at the Seventh Day Adventist Church for now, and the Early Education Center meets at a nearby Baptist Church. During this time "away from home base," we are learning what it truly is to be the church. Part of that learning is about the partnership we have with other churches, particularly about our partnership with people like you. thanks again and have a great Pentecost season in our Lord Jesus Christ!<br /> Sincerely,<br /> Rev. Will Cotton</blockquote> Back in April, a series of tornadoes devastated parts of the metroplex. One of the hard-hit areas was around St. Barnabas United Methodist Church in Arlington. Since the destruction, St. Barnabas has been worshiping off-site and working toward rebuilding their church. For May's Communion Offering, we collected funds to help in this effort. This note of thanks came in response to that gift: Dear John and the congregation of FUMC Grapevine, Thanks so much for your thoughts, prayers and your generous gift of $2,600 toward our reconstruction. We should be fully back in our restored building by early September. We meet at the Seventh Day Adventist Church for now, and the Early Education Center meets at a nearby Baptist Church. During this time "away from home base," we are learning what it truly is to be the church. Part of that learning is about the partnership we have with other churches, particularly about our partnership with people like you. thanks again and have a great Pentecost season in our Lord Jesus Christ! Sincerely, Rev. Will Cotton Anne & Rob Rhoades Honored http://www.firstmethodistgrapevine.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10664&entry_id=300412http://www.firstmethodistgrapevine.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10664&entry_id=300412 Wed, 16 May 2012 15:00:00 GMT <a href="http://www.gracegrapevine.org" target="_blank">GRACE</a> has honored FUMCG church members Anne and Rob Rhoades as Volunteers of the Year for their work with GRACE Transitional Housing. Congrats to them! Here's what GRACE had to say... <br /> <br /> <img alt="" src="http://www.firstmethodistgrapevine.org/Content/10664/Rob%20and%20Anne%20Rhoades.jpg" style="width: 200px; height: 173px; float: right; margin-left: 20px;" /><blockquote style="border: none; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 40px; border-image: initial; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;">“<strong style="border:0px; border-image: initial; font-style: italic; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; color: #333333; font-size: 14px; line-height: 23px; text-align: -webkit-auto; font-family: georgia, 'bitstream charter', serif;">Anne and Rob Rhoades</strong> dedicate many hours of their time to GRACE Transitional Housing. Much of what they do is behind the scenes, and they never demand praise or affirmation. All of the little things they do add up to a huge contribution. We truly could not do what we do without volunteers like them. They do the hard work of helping new residents move in and helping graduating residents transition to their new homes. GRACE is blessed to have Anne and Rob as part of our volunteer team.” <br /> –Olivia Wedel, Transitional Housing Manager </blockquote> GRACE has honored FUMCG church members Anne and Rob Rhoades as Volunteers of the Year for their work with GRACE Transitional Housing. Congrats to them! Here's what GRACE had to say... “ Anne and Rob Rhoades dedicate many hours of their time to GRACE Transitional Housing. Much of what they do is behind the scenes, and they never demand praise or affirmation. All of the little things they do add up to a huge contribution. We truly could not do what we do without volunteers like them. They do the hard work of helping new residents move in and helping graduating residents transition to their new homes. GRACE is blessed to have Anne and Rob as part of our volunteer team.” –Olivia Wedel, Transitional Housing Manager Blessings at the Well http://www.firstmethodistgrapevine.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10664&entry_id=300411http://www.firstmethodistgrapevine.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10664&entry_id=300411 Wed, 16 May 2012 15:00:00 GMT <img alt="" src="http://www.firstmethodistgrapevine.org/Content/10664/DSCF4513.JPG" style="width: 300px; height: 225px; float: right; margin-left: 20px;" />Fabulous tables, creative women, handsome men to serve, great food, and fun fellowship with girlfriends filled the Family Life Center for the May Well. What a refreshing blessing!<br /> <br /> Over 150 women were spiritually filled with FUMCG's own youth Lauren Henriksen as she blessed us with two beautiful worship songs! Debbie Stuart challenged us to Twenty Minutes a Day for the Rest of our Lives and reminded us that in John 2 it is apparent that if you want to experience God's miracles, you must "do as He says." Her humor and transparent authenticity called us all to trust Him more in the real stuff of life and hope will happen.<br /> <br /> Thanks to all who served so generously and made this evening wonderful for all who attended. Mark your calendars for next May, 2013 when we will transform the event into "Hats off to Girlfriends!" Fabulous tables, creative women, handsome men to serve, great food, and fun fellowship with girlfriends filled the Family Life Center for the May Well. What a refreshing blessing! Over 150 women were spiritually filled with FUMCG's own youth Lauren Henriksen as she blessed us with two beautiful worship songs! Debbie Stuart challenged us to Twenty Minutes a Day for the Rest of our Lives and reminded us that in John 2 it is apparent that if you want to experience God's miracles, you must "do as He says." Her humor and transparent authenticity called us all to trust Him more in the real stuff of life and hope will happen. Thanks to all who served so generously and made this evening wonderful for all who attended. Mark your calendars for next May, 2013 when we will transform the event into "Hats off to Girlfriends!" Garage Sale Benefits Family Mission Trip http://www.firstmethodistgrapevine.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10664&entry_id=299713http://www.firstmethodistgrapevine.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10664&entry_id=299713 Wed, 09 May 2012 17:00:00 GMT <p>Last Saturday's Garage Sale at the Heritage Campus raised almost $500 towards the Family Mission Trip! Paul Bielss reports his experience from the day...</p> <blockquote style="border: none;margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 40px; border-image: initial; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;"> <p>Sometimes I think that we could have made more money because we only got $5 for this or $2 for that or $25 for something big.  We also offered hope.  Hope that someone could use the items that we had for more years than the people that had them in the first place.  We had one recliner left when we were about to shut down.  A woman said that she really wanted it but didn’t even have any money to offer.  I told her to take it, if she would remember that God was providing for her.  I told her that she needed to pass on the good deed.  It is hard to make a $1,000 when you are trying to also help people.  I just hope that everybody sees it like I do. It helped us raise funds, but also helped the community.</p> </blockquote> <p > <div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="http://www.firstmethodistgrapevine.org/Content/10664/garagesale1.JPG" style="width: 500px; height: 282px;" /></div> </p> Last Saturday's Garage Sale at the Heritage Campus raised almost $500 towards the Family Mission Trip! Paul Bielss reports his experience from the day... Sometimes I think that we could have made more money because we only got $5 for this or $2 for that or $25 for something big. We also offered hope. Hope that someone could use the items that we had for more years than the people that had them in the first place. We had one recliner left when we were about to shut down. A woman said that she really wanted it but didn’t even have any money to offer. I told her to take it, if she would remember that God was providing for her. I told her that she needed to pass on the good deed. It is hard to make a $1,000 when you are trying to also help people. I just hope that everybody sees it like I do. It helped us raise funds, but also helped the community. Thank you! http://www.firstmethodistgrapevine.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10664&entry_id=299397http://www.firstmethodistgrapevine.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10664&entry_id=299397 Mon, 07 May 2012 22:00:00 GMT We've received the following note of thanks for your work at one of the Mustang Street trailer parks on Spring Into Missions day (April 21):<br /> <br /> <blockquote style="border: none;margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 40px; border-image: initial; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;">I am so grateful for your generosity and the many blessings your fellowship has given to me. Words cannot express my gratitude for the holes fixed in my floors and walls, the new porch and my yard is beautiful. All the volunteers and mission committee are truly appreciated. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.<br /> <br /> Yours and His in Christ,<br /> Rosalie</blockquote> We've received the following note of thanks for your work at one of the Mustang Street trailer parks on Spring Into Missions day (April 21): I am so grateful for your generosity and the many blessings your fellowship has given to me. Words cannot express my gratitude for the holes fixed in my floors and walls, the new porch and my yard is beautiful. All the volunteers and mission committee are truly appreciated. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. Yours and His in Christ, Rosalie First GIFT Event... Success! http://www.firstmethodistgrapevine.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10664&entry_id=299299http://www.firstmethodistgrapevine.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10664&entry_id=299299 Mon, 07 May 2012 17:00:00 GMT On Sunday, May 6, we had our first ever GIFT event... Growing In Faith Together. Twenty-eight ladies, from 6th grade through great grandmothers tied twenty blankets for the Blankets of Hope ministry (blankets for those dealing with addiction). The gathered ladies also enjoyed fellowship, snacks and prayer. Much thanks to those who donated all the beautiful fleece!<br /> <br /> <div style="text-align: center;"></div> On Sunday, May 6, we had our first ever GIFT event... Growing In Faith Together. Twenty-eight ladies, from 6th grade through great grandmothers tied twenty blankets for the Blankets of Hope ministry (blankets for those dealing with addiction). The gathered ladies also enjoyed fellowship, snacks and prayer. Much thanks to those who donated all the beautiful fleece! UMW Makes Birthing Kits http://www.firstmethodistgrapevine.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10664&entry_id=299290http://www.firstmethodistgrapevine.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10664&entry_id=299290 Mon, 07 May 2012 17:00:00 GMT Can you imagine giving birth on a dirt floor? For many mothers in third world countries, there has been no other choice. But now there is. The UMW Wesley Friendship Circle is helping with the UMCOR initiative to create birthing kits to provide the essential items to promote a safe, clean delivery and to encourage good aftercare. The kits include plastic sheeting, latex gloves, receiving blankets, soap and more. If you would like more information about Birthing Kits, visit <a href="http://new.gbgm-umc.org/umcor/getconnected/supplies/birthingkit/" target="_blank">UMCOR's website</a>.<br /> <br /> <div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="http://www.firstmethodistgrapevine.org/Content/10664/adults/100_2274.JPG" style="width: 500px; height: 334px;" /></div> <div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="http://www.firstmethodistgrapevine.org/Content/10664/adults/100_2278.JPG" style="width: 500px; height: 334px;" /></div> <div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="http://www.firstmethodistgrapevine.org/Content/10664/adults/100_2279.JPG" style="width: 500px; height: 334px;" /><br /> <br /> <a href="http://www.firstmethodistgrapevine.org/10664/content/content_id/252159/United-Methodist-Women">Click here for more information about UMW circles at FUMC Grapevine</a></div> Can you imagine giving birth on a dirt floor? For many mothers in third world countries, there has been no other choice. But now there is. The UMW Wesley Friendship Circle is helping with the UMCOR initiative to create birthing kits to provide the essential items to promote a safe, clean delivery and to encourage good aftercare. The kits include plastic sheeting, latex gloves, receiving blankets, soap and more. If you would like more information about Birthing Kits, visit UMCOR's website . Click here for more information about UMW circles at FUMC Grapevine Dolls for Kenya http://www.firstmethodistgrapevine.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10664&entry_id=298256http://www.firstmethodistgrapevine.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10664&entry_id=298256 Wed, 02 May 2012 17:00:00 GMT A group of ladies from South Colleyvine Ranch is industriously working to create 100 dolls to be delivered to little girls in Kenya! <br /> <br /> <div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="http://www.firstmethodistgrapevine.org/Content/10664/missions/Copy%20of%20100_2255.JPG" style="width: 448px; height: 299px;" /></div> <div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="http://www.firstmethodistgrapevine.org/Content/10664/missions/Copy%20of%20100_2259.JPG" style="width: 448px; height: 299px;" /></div> A group of ladies from South Colleyvine Ranch is industriously working to create 100 dolls to be delivered to little girls in Kenya! Iron Men Golf Tournament 2012 http://www.firstmethodistgrapevine.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10664&entry_id=298250http://www.firstmethodistgrapevine.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10664&entry_id=298250 Tue, 01 May 2012 17:00:00 GMT 120 Golfers and a good time was had by all! <br /> <br /> <strong>1st Place:</strong> Ken Goins, Tom Matilla, Wes Brown, Jason Johnson<br /> <br /> <strong>2nd Place: </strong>Brian Randolph, Parker Randolph, Dan Dooley, Adam Dooley<br /> <br /> <strong>3rd Place:</strong> Caleb Hailey, Matt Preston, Jaime Davis, Ryan Pevehouse<br /> <br /> <strong>1st Place Pastoral Category: </strong>Rev. John Mollet<br /> <br /> <strong>Longest Drive:</strong> Brian Sundell<br /> <br /> <strong>Closest to the Pin: </strong>Ed Lakey <br /> <br /> <table style="width: 100%;"> <tbody> <tr> <td style="width: 42%; text-align: left; vertical-align: top;"><strong>Special thanks to all our sponsors: </strong><br /> <table style="width: 100%;"> <tbody> <tr> <td>Jeff & Paula Nichols <br /> Al Davis <br /> Mark & Carol Howe <br /> Ted & Kathy Shaw <br /> Dave & Cindy Buhr <br /> Kim & Ed Crater  </td> <td>Don Pierce <br /> Hal & Joan O'Brien <br /> Kevin & Jennifer Mitchell <br /> Jason & Kara Bentley <br /> Phil & Laura Beth Chelf <br /> Kary & Tanya Lippe <br /> Open Door Class <br /> Don Davis  </td> <td>Larry Wetmore <br /> Joyce King <br /> Charlie Jackson <br /> Brian Randolph <br />   <br /> Impact Sign <br /> Clasic Chevy  </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <p style="text-align: center;"></p> 120 Golfers and a good time was had by all! 1st Place: Ken Goins, Tom Matilla, Wes Brown, Jason Johnson 2nd Place: Brian Randolph, Parker Randolph, Dan Dooley, Adam Dooley 3rd Place: Caleb Hailey, Matt Preston, Jaime Davis, Ryan Pevehouse 1st Place Pastoral Category: Rev. John Mollet Longest Drive: Brian Sundell Closest to the Pin: Ed Lakey Special thanks to all our sponsors: Jeff & Paula Nichols Al Davis Mark & Carol Howe Ted & Kathy Shaw Dave & Cindy Buhr Kim & Ed Crater Don Pierce Hal & Joan O'Brien Kevin & Jennifer Mitchell Jason & Kara Bentley Phil & Laura Beth Chelf Kary & Tanya Lippe Open Door Class Don Davis Larry Wetmore Joyce King Charlie Jackson Brian Randolph Impact Sign Clasic Chevy Relay for Life 2012 http://www.firstmethodistgrapevine.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10664&entry_id=298264http://www.firstmethodistgrapevine.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10664&entry_id=298264 Mon, 30 Apr 2012 19:00:00 GMT By Friday afternoon 6PM everything was in place...canopy up, “Walking Warriors” banner displayed, fund-raising items to sell on the tables, coolers filled with cold drinks, snacks in the baskets, team members excited and anxious to begin walking the track.  Throughout the 12-hour event some team members walked 10 miles...some 7...and all those miles in between.  At dark, the luminarias were lit in honor and in memory of loved ones whose lives have been affected by cancer.  As of this weekend nearly 500 participants and 43 teams collected approximately $100,000 for the 2012 Relay For Life of Grapevine Colleyville TX to help the American Cancer Society help save lives.  Our FUMC Walking Warriors team of 19 plus family and friends supporters contributed more than $4,000 to the effort!  <br /> <br /> <div style="text-align: center;"></div> By Friday afternoon 6PM everything was in place...canopy up, “Walking Warriors” banner displayed, fund-raising items to sell on the tables, coolers filled with cold drinks, snacks in the baskets, team members excited and anxious to begin walking the track. Throughout the 12-hour event some team members walked 10 miles...some 7...and all those miles in between. At dark, the luminarias were lit in honor and in memory of loved ones whose lives have been affected by cancer. As of this weekend nearly 500 participants and 43 teams collected approximately $100,000 for the 2012 Relay For Life of Grapevine Colleyville TX to help the American Cancer Society help save lives. Our FUMC Walking Warriors team of 19 plus family and friends supporters contributed more than $4,000 to the effort! Spring into Missions helps all around Grapevine http://www.firstmethodistgrapevine.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10664&entry_id=296617http://www.firstmethodistgrapevine.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10664&entry_id=296617 Wed, 25 Apr 2012 16:00:00 GMT Thanks to our 127 volunteers, Spring into Missions helped our friends on 17 projects last Saturday. What an amazing demonstration of God's love for those in need!  The volunteers beautified 10 flower beds for our neighbors in Grapevine Housing Authority, cleaned everything from bathrooms to gutters, mowed lawns and trimmed trees, replaced broken and leaky windows and laid beautiful new carpet. Nothing was too hard for the team who patched 3 big holes and fixed 40 feet of rotting wall in one trailer home. The homeowner was so happy she called people to come watch. We gave an air conditioner to a family with four young children so they won't be so hot this summer, and added a hot water heater for a family without one for several years. Twenty six of our Boy Scouts cleaned up big piles of debris at Heritage campus, and almost 30 Hispanic service volunteers worked on 6 projects. There was truly a spirit of giving in the many small "extras" that were done - and much appreciated!<br /> <br /> It was a blessing from God to see so many do so much in one morning. Thanks to each volunteer! And thanks to those who donated materials to help stretch our budget so that we could do additional projects. Not too tired? We still need a carpenter to help with a door installation; call Kathy Reece (214.938.0253) if you have experience and can help. <br /> <br /> <div style="text-align: center;"><br /> </div> <div style="text-align: center;"><br /> </div> Thanks to our 127 volunteers, Spring into Missions helped our friends on 17 projects last Saturday. What an amazing demonstration of God's love for those in need! The volunteers beautified 10 flower beds for our neighbors in Grapevine Housing Authority, cleaned everything from bathrooms to gutters, mowed lawns and trimmed trees, replaced broken and leaky windows and laid beautiful new carpet. Nothing was too hard for the team who patched 3 big holes and fixed 40 feet of rotting wall in one trailer home. The homeowner was so happy she called people to come watch. We gave an air conditioner to a family with four young children so they won't be so hot this summer, and added a hot water heater for a family without one for several years. Twenty six of our Boy Scouts cleaned up big piles of debris at Heritage campus, and almost 30 Hispanic service volunteers worked on 6 projects. There was truly a spirit of giving in the many small "extras" that were done - and much appreciated! It was a blessing from God to see so many do so much in one morning. Thanks to each volunteer! And thanks to those who donated materials to help stretch our budget so that we could do additional projects. Not too tired? We still need a carpenter to help with a door installation; call Kathy Reece (214.938.0253) if you have experience and can help. Confirmation 2012 http://www.firstmethodistgrapevine.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10664&entry_id=295660http://www.firstmethodistgrapevine.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10664&entry_id=295660 Tue, 17 Apr 2012 21:00:00 GMT After several weeks of Confirmation Classes, we welcomed 35 new members into the church! <br /> <br /> Please join us in welcoming the Confirmation Class of 2012 (Heritage Campus):<br /> <div style="text-align: center;">Mackenzie Edwards, Andrew Hackney, Cade Deborah<br /> <img alt="" src="http://www.firstmethodistgrapevine.org/Content/10664/heritageconf2012.JPG" style="width: 500px; height: 375px;" /></div> <br /> And join us in welcoming the Confirmation Class of 2012 (Downtown Campus):<br /> <br /> <div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="http://www.firstmethodistgrapevine.org/Content/10664/youth/confirmands2012.jpg" style="width: 500px; height: 292px;" /><br /> <table align="center" style="width: 100%;"> <tbody> <tr> <td style="text-align: center; vertical-align: top;">Elisabeth Adkins<br /> Jacob Bennett<br /> Max Bigler<br /> Maggie Black<br /> Bryce Crocker<br /> Melanie De La Cruz<br /> Taryn Emory<br /> Kolby Feldotto</td> <td style="text-align: center; vertical-align: top;">Jarrett Fenley<br /> Madison Flores<br /> Everett Goebel<br /> Lauren Henriksen<br /> Lauren Hodge<br /> Megan Hoffman<br /> Matthew Kenny<br /> Caline Kibugu<br /> </td> <td style="text-align: center; vertical-align: top;">Tanner Logan<br /> Carmen Magaña<br /> Ethan Matthews<br /> Mason McHorse<br /> Christopher Merte<br /> Sarah Merte<br /> Maeven New<br /> Carson Parrish<br /> </td> <td style="text-align: center; vertical-align: top;">Madeline Payne<br /> Nick Pierce<br /> Alek Sirotnak<br /> Grant Sisk<br /> Jared Spann<br /> Adrian Uribe<br /> Andy Wilding   </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <br /> <div style="text-align: left;">We'd also like to say a huge THANK YOU to our Confirmation Mentors: Neil Anderson, Jennifer Bigler, Suzanne DeVoss, Melissa Goebel, Kelly Matthews, Julie Payne and Charlie Wilson.</div> </div> After several weeks of Confirmation Classes, we welcomed 35 new members into the church! Please join us in welcoming the Confirmation Class of 2012 (Heritage Campus): Mackenzie Edwards, Andrew Hackney, Cade Deborah And join us in welcoming the Confirmation Class of 2012 (Downtown Campus): Elisabeth Adkins Jacob Bennett Max Bigler Maggie Black Bryce Crocker Melanie De La Cruz Taryn Emory Kolby Feldotto Jarrett Fenley Madison Flores Everett Goebel Lauren Henriksen Lauren Hodge Megan Hoffman Matthew Kenny Caline Kibugu Tanner Logan Carmen Magaña Ethan Matthews Mason McHorse Christopher Merte Sarah Merte Maeven New Carson Parrish Madeline Payne Nick Pierce Alek Sirotnak Grant Sisk Jared Spann Adrian Uribe Andy Wilding We'd also like to say a huge THANK YOU to our Confirmation Mentors: Neil Anderson, Jennifer Bigler, Suzanne DeVoss, Melissa Goebel, Kelly Matthews, Julie Payne and Charlie Wilson. Holy Week and Easter http://www.firstmethodistgrapevine.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10664&entry_id=294794http://www.firstmethodistgrapevine.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10664&entry_id=294794 Wed, 11 Apr 2012 17:00:00 GMT On Maundy Thursday, worshippers gathered at our Heritage Campus, in Founders Chapel and the Downtown Sanctuary to share in Holy Communion and to remember Jesus breaking bread with his Disciples.  At one service, a dramatic monologue by "Judas" reminded us that we all betray Jesus at some point.  On Good Friday, worshippers visited the Stations of the Cross led by guides who offered words in English and Spanish which reminded us of Jesus' sacrifice.  At sunrise, on Easter morning at both campuses, worshippers sang and heard scriptures as the sun came up on Easter day.  Throughout the morning, in English and Spanish, on both our campuses in multiple services we gathered to proclaim "He lives!"  It was a beautiful, colorful, music-filled morning. Thanks to everyone who helped make Holy Week such a special journey!<br /> <br /> <div style="text-align: center;"></div> <div style="text-align: center;"><br /> </div> <div style="text-align: center;"></div> On Maundy Thursday, worshippers gathered at our Heritage Campus, in Founders Chapel and the Downtown Sanctuary to share in Holy Communion and to remember Jesus breaking bread with his Disciples. At one service, a dramatic monologue by "Judas" reminded us that we all betray Jesus at some point. On Good Friday, worshippers visited the Stations of the Cross led by guides who offered words in English and Spanish which reminded us of Jesus' sacrifice. At sunrise, on Easter morning at both campuses, worshippers sang and heard scriptures as the sun came up on Easter day. Throughout the morning, in English and Spanish, on both our campuses in multiple services we gathered to proclaim "He lives!" It was a beautiful, colorful, music-filled morning. Thanks to everyone who helped make Holy Week such a special journey! Easter Picnic Recap http://www.firstmethodistgrapevine.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10664&entry_id=294688http://www.firstmethodistgrapevine.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10664&entry_id=294688 Wed, 11 Apr 2012 15:00:00 GMT We had a great time on Saturday at the Easter egg hunt, picnic and ice cream contest.   Kids ages 0-2nd grade enjoyed a egg hunt ending with overflowing baskets and those in 3rd and 4th grade went on a scavenger hunt.  We had several ice cream entrants; Wendy Merrill with vanilla, Pam De La Cruz with lemon with chocolate sauce, Emily Diehm with vanilla, Nicholas Leslie with double stuffed Oreo and Jerry Pitman with strawberry.  The winner was Nicholas with double stuffed Oreo.  A $50 donation was made to the Ministry Mile as Nicholas's choice of ministries. There were so many people it was difficult to count how many came out for the beautiful day. Thank you to all the adult classes that bought candy for and stuffed eggs, those that made ice cream and to all the families that came out and enjoyed the beautiful day of fun and fellowship.<br /> <br /> <div style="text-align: center;"></div> We had a great time on Saturday at the Easter egg hunt, picnic and ice cream contest. Kids ages 0-2nd grade enjoyed a egg hunt ending with overflowing baskets and those in 3rd and 4th grade went on a scavenger hunt. We had several ice cream entrants; Wendy Merrill with vanilla, Pam De La Cruz with lemon with chocolate sauce, Emily Diehm with vanilla, Nicholas Leslie with double stuffed Oreo and Jerry Pitman with strawberry. The winner was Nicholas with double stuffed Oreo. A $50 donation was made to the Ministry Mile as Nicholas's choice of ministries. There were so many people it was difficult to count how many came out for the beautiful day. Thank you to all the adult classes that bought candy for and stuffed eggs, those that made ice cream and to all the families that came out and enjoyed the beautiful day of fun and fellowship. News From Costa Rica http://www.firstmethodistgrapevine.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10664&entry_id=290672http://www.firstmethodistgrapevine.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10664&entry_id=290672 Wed, 14 Mar 2012 19:00:00 GMT Thank you so much for your prayers! The Costa Rica mission trip is going very well. We did VBS in the public elementary school for two days. One of my favorite things was hearing the principal tell us, "Tell all of the children about God's love." We had a blast teaching them about the armor of God and doing crafts and singing songs. Our team has really gelled together and working well with one another. Tomorrow we will travel to San Jose and work in the children's home. Thank you again for your prayers. <br /> <br /> <div style="text-align: center;"></div> Thank you so much for your prayers! The Costa Rica mission trip is going very well. We did VBS in the public elementary school for two days. One of my favorite things was hearing the principal tell us, "Tell all of the children about God's love." We had a blast teaching them about the armor of God and doing crafts and singing songs. Our team has really gelled together and working well with one another. Tomorrow we will travel to San Jose and work in the children's home. Thank you again for your prayers. Project Repair - Spring Break http://www.firstmethodistgrapevine.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10664&entry_id=290671http://www.firstmethodistgrapevine.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10664&entry_id=290671 Wed, 14 Mar 2012 18:00:00 GMT <div>We had a work team working on Project Repair trailers in the Grapevine Village this week. Work was done on four homes by members of the church with help from the Aggie Men's Club.</div> <ul> <li>Lot #19, we painted the outside, repaired an electrical issue and replaced the clothes dryer</li> <li>Lot #12, we repaired the structure of the floor foundation and replaced the kitchen flooring</li> <li>Lot #49 we repaired a leaky roof, and replaced the porch overhang</li> <li>Lot #10 we Repainted the entire inside and outside of the house, repaired numerous electrical issues, replaced all the flooring and laid carpet in the bedrooms.  We gutted and rebuilt the bathroom and kitchen including cabinets, countertops, flooring and plumbing,  We installed all new lighting in the house. We repaired a leaky roof, and fixed a very leaky front door.  </li> </ul> <div>Thanks so much to all who worked this week! <br /> <br /> We'd also like to thank all those who donated snacks and drinks. The work team was very well nurtured by our Church. They were never hungry or thirsty. The von Storchs opened their home for breakfasts and dinners and sleeping as well as hosting The Hamburger Man. Many, many church members provided lunch and snacks and homemade cookies and drinks everyday!  Money was donated to treat our volunteers to a pizza party Tuesday night! Many thanks to all at Church from the Aggie Mens Club.<br /> <br /> <div style="text-align: center;"></div> </div> We had a work team working on Project Repair trailers in the Grapevine Village this week. Work was done on four homes by members of the church with help from the Aggie Men's Club. Lot #19, we painted the outside, repaired an electrical issue and replaced the clothes dryer Lot #12, we repaired the structure of the floor foundation and replaced the kitchen flooring Lot #49 we repaired a leaky roof, and replaced the porch overhang Lot #10 we Repainted the entire inside and outside of the house, repaired numerous electrical issues, replaced all the flooring and laid carpet in the bedrooms. We gutted and rebuilt the bathroom and kitchen including cabinets, countertops, flooring and plumbing, We installed all new lighting in the house. We repaired a leaky roof, and fixed a very leaky front door. Thanks so much to all who worked this week! We'd also like to thank all those who donated snacks and drinks. The work team was very well nurtured by our Church. They were never hungry or thirsty. The von Storchs opened their home for breakfasts and dinners and sleeping as well as hosting The Hamburger Man. Many, many church members provided lunch and snacks and homemade cookies and drinks everyday! Money was donated to treat our volunteers to a pizza party Tuesday night! Many thanks to all at Church from the Aggie Mens Club. Kenya Recap http://www.firstmethodistgrapevine.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10664&entry_id=290637http://www.firstmethodistgrapevine.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10664&entry_id=290637 Wed, 14 Mar 2012 15:00:00 GMT As I start to look back on my first trip to Kenya, I am both amazed and humbled at what I saw, learned and experienced. I was amazed at what the people managed to accomplish with limited resources. The Guest House that we dedicated to the Rev. Dr. Ken Diehm that will soon be ready to start generating revenue, the church in Lanyiruu that is almost completed, the schools that are educating hundreds of children on dirt floors with very few supplies. I was humbled when the students were told to focus on what they have, not what they don’t have and they can go as far they want to in life. This was an emotionally satisfying and exhausting trip. We visited 8 churches and 11 schools, saw approximately 4,000 students, spent time with the AIDs orphans and evangelists that our church supports. This filled the 8 days we were in Meru, Kenya and helped me to understand why team members go back again and again. <br /> <br /> <div style="text-align: center;"></div> As I start to look back on my first trip to Kenya, I am both amazed and humbled at what I saw, learned and experienced. I was amazed at what the people managed to accomplish with limited resources. The Guest House that we dedicated to the Rev. Dr. Ken Diehm that will soon be ready to start generating revenue, the church in Lanyiruu that is almost completed, the schools that are educating hundreds of children on dirt floors with very few supplies. I was humbled when the students were told to focus on what they have, not what they don’t have and they can go as far they want to in life. This was an emotionally satisfying and exhausting trip. We visited 8 churches and 11 schools, saw approximately 4,000 students, spent time with the AIDs orphans and evangelists that our church supports. This filled the 8 days we were in Meru, Kenya and helped me to understand why team members go back again and again. Thank You! http://www.firstmethodistgrapevine.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10664&entry_id=290161http://www.firstmethodistgrapevine.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10664&entry_id=290161 Mon, 12 Mar 2012 17:00:00 GMT Dear FUMCG Family,<br /> Thank you so much for bringing me flowers yesterday! (<a href="http://www.firstmethodistgrapevine.org/10664/opportunity/opportunity_id/254944/Flower-Delivery">Altar Flower Ministry</a>) I had a smile on my face all day. Thanks also for all the prayers recently. Y'all are the best!<br /> Love,<br /> Andrea Hargreaves Dear FUMCG Family, Thank you so much for bringing me flowers yesterday! ( Altar Flower Ministry ) I had a smile on my face all day. Thanks also for all the prayers recently. Y'all are the best! Love, Andrea Hargreaves Homeless MAT-ters Update http://www.firstmethodistgrapevine.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10664&entry_id=290645http://www.firstmethodistgrapevine.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10664&entry_id=290645 Fri, 09 Mar 2012 18:00:00 GMT <img alt="" src="http://www.firstmethodistgrapevine.org/Content/10664/missions/homelessmat.JPG" style="width: 250px; height: 152px; float: right; margin-left: 20px;" />Thank you for bringing your plastic bags... please keep them coming. We helped the Wesley foundation make their goal of 100 mats last year and since then we have been donating mats to the Church on the SLAB. So far we have donated 35 mats and will be sending at least 13 this month. We have a wonderful group of ladies at the Senior Center that are working very hard on the mats and they donated 8 this month. WOW! We also have quite a few ladies in the church that are working very hard cutting, tying and crocheting. What a blessing this ministry is. If you have any questions please contact Kathy Langham, at 817-845-8281, or <a href="http://www.firstmethodistgrapevine.org/mailto:kathy.langham@gmx.com">kathy.langham@gmx.com</a>.  Thank you for bringing your plastic bags... please keep them coming. We helped the Wesley foundation make their goal of 100 mats last year and since then we have been donating mats to the Church on the SLAB. So far we have donated 35 mats and will be sending at least 13 this month. We have a wonderful group of ladies at the Senior Center that are working very hard on the mats and they donated 8 this month. WOW! We also have quite a few ladies in the church that are working very hard cutting, tying and crocheting. What a blessing this ministry is. If you have any questions please contact Kathy Langham, at 817-845-8281, or kathy.langham@gmx.com . Thrift Shop Change Over http://www.firstmethodistgrapevine.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10664&entry_id=289475http://www.firstmethodistgrapevine.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10664&entry_id=289475 Wed, 07 Mar 2012 17:00:00 GMT <div>It wasn't too long ago that we got to learn so much via a Ministry Moment about the little white frame house that sits in our Church Street parking lot on College Street housing our Thrift Shop.  Today when I went to make a donation from one of our neighbors, I was reminded by the sign on the door that they were closed this week for "Change Over" (meaning they put away winter and get out summer things).  When I went in, change certainly was occurring!  Staffed by volunteers that usually work just one morning a week, many volunteers were coming together to pitch in on this big effort and it was like a PARTY, like a homecoming, or like a Family Reunion where some people were getting to meet for the first time.  People who might just work sorting in the garage, meeting people who are the inside staff... men, women, new members, members who have worked there 20 years. What a picture of a living, growing ministry to us all!  We donate.  They sort, hang, price at just pennies to sell to the many, many people who come to shop sometimes every day!  And the list of places the Thrift Shop income goes to help others boggles my mind still!  Their Annual Report is posted in the Thrift Shop, so if you want to see where their big-hearted mission donations go, be sure to drop in during their open hours:  Tuesday -Friday 9-11:30, Sat. 9-11 but NOT THIS WEEK, they are Changing Over!  For more information you can be in touch with Angela Ozymy at <a title="mailto:aozymy@verizon.net" href="http://www.firstmethodistgrapevine.org/mailto:aozymy@verizon.net">aozymy@verizon.net</a>.<br /> <br /> <img alt="" src="http://www.firstmethodistgrapevine.org/Content/10664/missions/Copy%20of%20DSC00694.JPG" style="width: 336px; height: 448px;" /><img alt="" src="http://www.firstmethodistgrapevine.org/Content/10664/missions/Copy%20of%20DSC00695.JPG" /><img alt="" src="http://www.firstmethodistgrapevine.org/Content/10664/missions/Copy%20of%20DSC00698.JPG" /><img alt="" src="http://www.firstmethodistgrapevine.org/Content/10664/missions/Copy%20of%20DSC00699.JPG" /><img alt="" src="http://www.firstmethodistgrapevine.org/Content/10664/missions/Copy%20of%20DSC00701.JPG" /><br /> <br /> <br /> </div> It wasn't too long ago that we got to learn so much via a Ministry Moment about the little white frame house that sits in our Church Street parking lot on College Street housing our Thrift Shop. Today when I went to make a donation from one of our neighbors, I was reminded by the sign on the door that they were closed this week for "Change Over" (meaning they put away winter and get out summer things). When I went in, change certainly was occurring! Staffed by volunteers that usually work just one morning a week, many volunteers were coming together to pitch in on this big effort and it was like a PARTY, like a homecoming, or like a Family Reunion where some people were getting to meet for the first time. People who might just work sorting in the garage, meeting people who are the inside staff... men, women, new members, members who have worked there 20 years. What a picture of a living, growing ministry to us all! We donate. They sort, hang, price at just pennies to sell to the many, many people who come to shop sometimes every day! And the list of places the Thrift Shop income goes to help others boggles my mind still! Their Annual Report is posted in the Thrift Shop, so if you want to see where their big-hearted mission donations go, be sure to drop in during their open hours: Tuesday -Friday 9-11:30, Sat. 9-11 but NOT THIS WEEK, they are Changing Over! For more information you can be in touch with Angela Ozymy at aozymy@verizon.net . Thank You http://www.firstmethodistgrapevine.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10664&entry_id=288186http://www.firstmethodistgrapevine.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10664&entry_id=288186 Mon, 27 Feb 2012 17:00:00 GMT Dear everyone at FUMCG,<br /> I want ya'll to know how great it is to be a member of such a giving, loving, caring group. I feel very loved and special during this very scary part of my life. I love you all.<br /> Jan Parrett Dear everyone at FUMCG, I want ya'll to know how great it is to be a member of such a giving, loving, caring group. I feel very loved and special during this very scary part of my life. I love you all. Jan Parrett Your Sweater Giving... Doubled! http://www.firstmethodistgrapevine.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10664&entry_id=287457http://www.firstmethodistgrapevine.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10664&entry_id=287457 Wed, 22 Feb 2012 17:00:00 GMT <img alt="" src="http://www.firstmethodistgrapevine.org/Content/10664/kenya2011%20196.jpg" style="width: 200px; height: 272px; float: right; margin-left: 20px;" />Because we were able to raise enough funds to purchase sweaters for every child in our Kenya Village, Bishop William was able to negotiate a reduced price for the sweaters of only $6 each. Thanks to your great generosity, we will now be able to provide sweaters for all of the children in a neighboring village as well! What a blessing! Because we were able to raise enough funds to purchase sweaters for every child in our Kenya Village, Bishop William was able to negotiate a reduced price for the sweaters of only $6 each. Thanks to your great generosity, we will now be able to provide sweaters for all of the children in a neighboring village as well! What a blessing! Thanks for Supporting CLC! http://www.firstmethodistgrapevine.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10664&entry_id=287456http://www.firstmethodistgrapevine.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10664&entry_id=287456 Wed, 22 Feb 2012 17:00:00 GMT Thank you for supporting the Creative Learning Center by eating at Cane's chicken! CLC received a check for $189.50 last week!<br /> <br /> <div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="http://www.firstmethodistgrapevine.org/Content/10664/canes_clc.JPG" style="width: 400px; height: 259px;" /></div> Thank you for supporting the Creative Learning Center by eating at Cane's chicken! CLC received a check for $189.50 last week! Cookies Help the Needy http://www.firstmethodistgrapevine.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10664&entry_id=287455http://www.firstmethodistgrapevine.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10664&entry_id=287455 Wed, 22 Feb 2012 17:00:00 GMT Thank you for your incredible support when Pat Laster won the Star-Telegram cookie contest! Due to your support and that of others in the community, the sale of Pat's ginger burst cookies resulted in a donation of $4,000 for the Goodfellow Fund, a charity that helps the needy in our community. <a href="http://www.star-telegram.com/2012/02/14/3734068/cookie-sales-earn-4000-for-goodfellow.html#tvg" target="_blank">Click here to read the full article in the Star-Telegram.</a> Thank you for your incredible support when Pat Laster won the Star-Telegram cookie contest! Due to your support and that of others in the community, the sale of Pat's ginger burst cookies resulted in a donation of $4,000 for the Goodfellow Fund, a charity that helps the needy in our community. Click here to read the full article in the Star-Telegram. Villages Progress http://www.firstmethodistgrapevine.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10664&entry_id=288181http://www.firstmethodistgrapevine.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10664&entry_id=288181 Mon, 20 Feb 2012 16:00:00 GMT If you weren't here on Sunday, February 19, you may have missed seeing the before and after photos from some of our Village projects. Your gifts in memory of Ken Diehm have gone to projects in each of the three Villages. <br /> <br /> <div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="http://www.firstmethodistgrapevine.org/Content/10664/missions/villagesprogress.jpg" style="width: 550px; height: 720px;" /></div> If you weren't here on Sunday, February 19, you may have missed seeing the before and after photos from some of our Village projects. Your gifts in memory of Ken Diehm have gone to projects in each of the three Villages.