The Power of Persistent Prayer: Lessons from Jacob

Posted By Pastor Kevin Ruteldge

In the ancient scriptures, we find the story of Jacob, a man whose audacity and tenacity in prayer have much to teach us. Jacob, in his determination and courage, approached God not with timidity but with boldness. He wrestled with God, refusing to let go until he received his blessing. From this approach, we can learn to shift our prayer lives from timid to tenacious.But how does Jacob's prayer life differ from our modern understanding of prayer? We often approach God with humility and gentleness, hesitating to ask for what we need. We may fear asking for specific outcomes, worrying about what it means if God doesn't answer in the way we hope. Yet, when we look at Jacob, we see a different picture. Jacob asked God directly for what he wanted, but he refused to let go until he received his blessing. This audacious prayer invites us to approach God boldly, asking for what we truly want and need. Next Step: Reflect on your prayer life. Do you approach God with timidity or boldness? Consider one thing you deeply desire but have hesitated to ask God for. In your following prayer, express this desire openly and directly to God, just like Jacob.Part 1: Wrestling in Prayer: Holding on to GodWrestling with God may seem foreign or even irreverent to some. Yet, this is precisely what Jacob did. He held on to God, refusing to let go until he received his blessing. In this, we find a powerful lesson for our own prayer lives. Like Jacob, we too can hold on to God in prayer, even when the going gets tough. We can ask for what we truly want and need and refuse to give up until we see the fulfillment of our petitions. This does not mean our prayers will always be answered however we want. Sometimes, the wrestling can leave us with a "limp" - a reminder of the struggle. But in these moments of wrestling and struggle, we often experience the most growth and transformation. Next Step: In your next prayer session, imagine yourself wrestling with God, holding on, and refusing to let go until you receive your blessing. Part 2: A Deeper Engagement with God: Jacob's LegacyThrough Jacob's example, we learn that prayer is more than a gentle conversation with God. It can be a rigorous wrestle, a place where we refuse to let go until we receive our blessing. In this audacious engagement with God, we don't just gain a blessing but also joy, redemption, and a transformative experience in our prayer lives.As we take the path of audacious prayer like Jacob, we might find our lives transformed. So, let's shake off the timidity and ask, seek, and knock with all our hearts. Let's engage with God deeper, wrestling in prayer and refusing to let go until we receive our blessing. Next Step:1. For the next week, approach your prayer times with the audacity and tenacity of Jacob.2. Be bold in your requests, wrestle with God, and hold on until you receive your blessing.3. Reflect on how this changes your relationship with God and your experience of prayer.ConclusionJacob's story offers us a profound lesson in the power of persistent and audacious prayer. His unwavering determination and boldness in approaching God are an inspiring example for us to follow. Rather than approaching our Creator with timidity and hesitation, let us embrace the audacity to ask for what we truly desire and need. Just as Jacob refused to let go until he received his blessing, may we, too, hold on to God in prayer, even when faced with adversity. While our prayers may not always be answered as we hope, it is in the wrestling and struggle that we often find growth and transformation. As we embark on this journey of audacious prayer, may we not only gain blessings but also experience joy, redemption, and a deeper connection with the Divine. So, let us cast off our timidity and engage with God on a profound level, wrestling in prayer and refusing to let go until we receive our blessing. In the coming week, as you approach your prayer times with the audacity and tenacity of Jacob, reflect on how this transformational approach changes your relationship with God and your experience of prayer.

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The Transformative Power of Waiting: Lessons from Sarah and Abraham's Journey

Posted By Pastor Kevin Rutledge

The concept of waiting is often associated with frustration and stagnation. But what if we told you that waiting could be a beautiful and transformative experience? The story of Sarah and Abraham, biblical figures from the Old Testament, sheds light on the transformative power of waiting and the unwavering faithfulness of God.The Art of Patient ExpectationSarah and Abraham waited for years for the fulfillment of a divine promise - a child. When God fulfilled this promise, they welcomed it with immense hospitality. Their story illuminates the beauty of God's promises and the transformative power of hope and waiting.In a world where instant gratification often takes precedence, Sarah and Abraham's story teaches us the art of patient expectation. Their unwavering faith in God's promise, despite the passing years and their doubts, inspires us to embrace the waiting season in our lives.Embracing Doubt as a Path to FaithTheir journey also explores the concept of doubt, a familiar feeling during periods of waiting. Sarah and Abraham themselves doubted whether what they were waiting for was something God intended to give them. Despite their doubts, God met them with grace and love, teaching us that doubt can prepare us for receiving God's blessings.Doubt can serve as a stepping stone rather than being a barrier to faith. It challenges us to question, seek understanding, and strengthens our faith. As Sarah and Abraham's doubt didn't deter God's plan, our doubts need not hinder our journey toward transformation.Becoming Catalysts for TransformationTheir story prompts reflection on our lives, questioning whether we could be catalysts for transformation within our communities. Could God make the impossible possible in your life? Could you serve as a messenger of hope to those in need? These thought-provoking questions encourage us to grapple with the reality of God's promises and inspire us to be agents of change in the world.Sarah and Abraham's story is not merely a historical account but a timeless reminder that we, too, can be agents of transformation. By embracing our waiting periods with faith and purpose, we can inspire change and bring hope to those around us.Waiting as a Journey, Not Just a DestinationThe story of Sarah and Abraham demonstrates that waiting, though often challenging, can lead to transformative blessings. Their tale serves as a reminder of God's unwavering faithfulness and His power to turn the impossible into possible.What You Can Do: Share Your JourneyDon't keep your transformative experiences and insights to yourself. Share your story with others. By sharing your journey and lessons, you can inspire and uplift those around you. Your experiences may encourage someone else to navigate their waiting season with faith and resilience.In conclusion, let us remember that waiting is not just about the destination; it's about the transformational journey. As you navigate your seasons of waiting, take heart in the lessons of Sarah and Abraham. Embrace the transformative power of waiting with unwavering faith, knowing God's promises are always fulfilled in His perfect time.

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Share Your Transformational Journey

Posted By Pastor Kevin Rutledge

I'm deeply moved by the belief that stories possess an enduring power to connect, inspire, and remind us of the constant presence of God's goodness in our lives. Today, I extend a heartfelt invitation to all of you who have consistently supported our church ministry through your unwavering prayers, active presence, generous gifts, talents, and powerful witness. I am thrilled to invite you to share your personal stories of transformation through the ministries that have touched your lives.Our journey together has been filled with remarkable moments of faith and growth. We believe that every story matters - whether it's about how our church helped you better understand God, forge meaningful relationships, or provided vital support during challenging times. Your experiences are a source of inspiration, not only to us but to those who may be seeking similar encounters in their own lives.By taking just a few minutes to share your stories, whether they're grand and extraordinary or simple yet profound, you have the incredible opportunity to show how this church, as it faithfully lives out God's calling, has been and continues to be a blessing for others. Your story might be the spark that ignites someone else's faith journey. Imagine the impact you can have on their life by sharing your story.Here's how you can make a difference: Click the link below to access a web form where you can share your story with us and with others.Share Your StoryTogether, let's explore how the stories of what God has done for people through the church's ministries can serve as a guiding light for those seeking answers today. Your willingness to participate and share your transformative journey is deeply appreciated.I want to take a moment to express my profound gratitude for each and every one of you. You are an integral part of our vibrant community, and your contributions have been instrumental in the work we do. Thank you for considering this opportunity to share your experiences and the profound ways in which our church has touched your lives.

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Embracing Change: A Call to Revitalize the Modern Church

Posted By Pastor Kevin Rutledge

At a time when trust in the Church is at an all-time low, the need for a significant transformation from within has never been more crucial. Our spiritual leaders challenge us to move away from the status quo and forge a fresh path forward, grounded on the unwavering foundation of Jesus Christ.The Resistance to ChangeChange is never easy, and the Church is no exception. Yet, the danger lies not in embracing Change but in resisting it, waiting for things to return to how they were. This resistance leads to stagnation, where the Church risks losing relevance in a rapidly evolving society. Ultimately, our security lies not in the ever-changing world but in Jesus, who remains steadfast amidst all changes.There are several reasons why we can be resistant to change. Here are a few:Fear of the Unknown: Change often involves stepping into the unknown, and this uncertainty can be daunting. We may wonder about the implications of Change on our roles, our longstanding relationships, and the future of the Church. Fear of the unknown can paralyze us and prevent us from embracing Change.Fear of Losing Our Identity: Most churches have been the same for years. How they are perceived by its members and the broader community, at least in our minds, is set. We don't want to risk too much Change because we wonder if we will be the same Church if we change. Also, those of us committed to the Church have it as a crucial part of understanding ourselves. If the church changes, will we still be able to identify ourselves within it?The Need for Stability: Let's face it: the world around us is changing rapidly. What once felt safe and normal is hard to find and identify. The very changes that cause the Church to need to change are the things that keep us wanting things to stay the same. In a world where nothing seems anchored and nothing feels safe from Change, the Church can provide some steadfastness, and we want to keep it that way.The Value of Spiritual Pursuits in a Changing WorldThe enduring value of spiritual pursuits and the Gospel's transformative power becomes more evident amid societal advancements. The call to share Jesus's good news with the world is more urgent than ever. As believers, we are part of God's grand narrative, tasked with carrying forward the legacy of the Great Commission.Embracing TransformationOur faith stories are potent narratives that showcase the remarkable journey of spiritual transformation. These stories remind us of the profound impact of encountering God on our lives. They serve as a testament to the thrill of spiritual growth, the joy of participating in God's work, and the resilience of human faith.These narratives inspire us to embrace Change, not as a mere reaction to external forces, but as a deliberate and purposeful journey towards spiritual renewal. Here's a deeper exploration of this idea:The Thrill of Spiritual Transformation: Our faith stories are filled with awakening, revelation, and personal growth moments. They remind us that the most profound changes often begin within ourselves. The thrill of spiritual transformation lies in discovering new dimensions of faith, deepening our relationship with God, and finding a more significant purpose in our lives.Embracing the Change in the World: The world and the Church have changed. As followers of Christ, we are called to be relevant and responsive to society's evolving needs and challenges. The words of Jesus remind us that even the grandest human accomplishments will eventually pass away. Therefore, our focus should be on what truly matters: spreading love, compassion, and salvation to all.Beyond Returning to Glory Days: It's important to clarify that the transformation we seek within the Church is not about returning to some perceived "glory days" of the past. Nostalgia can sometimes cloud our vision and impede progress. Instead, our faith stories call us to envision a future where the Church continues to fulfill its mission in a rapidly evolving world.Our faith stories are a testament to the thrill of spiritual transformation and the joy of participating in God's work. They inspire us to embrace Change, challenge the status quo, and navigate the trials that come our way.The Church's MissionThe importance of the Church's mission to share the good news of Jesus cannot be overstated. The Gospel can upend the world and bring hope to the suffering. And with the ongoing task of the Great Commission, we are encouraged to share our faith stories and rekindle the excitement of the transformation that the Spirit provides.Heeding the Call to Embrace ChangeSo, let us heed the call to embrace change and keep moving forward, relying on Jesus as our unshakeable foundation. Let us rekindle the excitement of sharing the Gospel, bearing witness to its transformative power. And let us navigate these challenges together, united in our mission and driven by our enduring faith.Indeed, the greatest challenge facing the modern Church isn't external but internal. The Church's future lies in our willingness to embrace transformation and continue sharing the unshakeable foundation of Jesus in an ever-changing world.

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Join Our Thoughtful Journey: Exploring "The Ballot and the Bible"

Posted By Pastor Kevin Rutledge

Are curious, intrigued or mortified by the intricate relationship between religion and politics? Do you enjoy engaging discussions over delicious appetizers and drinks? If so, we have an exciting invitation for you. We're starting a small, passionate group to dive into the thought-provoking book, "The Ballot and the Bible: How Scripture Has Been Used and Abused in American Politics and Where We Go from Here" by Kaitlyn Schiess. Our gatherings will be more than just book discussions; they'll be opportunities for intellectual growth and meaningful conversations. Join us at a local restaurant as we embark on this enlightening journey.About the Book:"The Ballot and the Bible" is a captivating exploration of the intersection of religion and politics in America. Kaitlyn Schiess delves into the ways in which scripture has been wielded throughout American history to shape political beliefs, policies, and even voting decisions. From early colonial times to the present day, this book unravels the complex relationship between faith and politics, shedding light on how the Bible has both united and divided our nation.Why Join Our Group:Our small group aims to create a welcoming and intellectually stimulating environment where we can collectively explore the rich content of "The Ballot and the Bible." Here's what you can expect from our gatherings:Methodical Exploration: We will read sections of the book before each meeting, allowing us to delve deep into the content and ideas presented by Kaitlyn Schiess.Thoughtful Discussions: Our conversations will revolve around the main themes, arguments, and ideas from the book. We encourage diverse perspectives and respectful dialogue, making every meeting an opportunity for intellectual growth.Biblical Insights: Since the book deals extensively with the use of scripture in American politics, we will also discuss and analyze the Bible passages mentioned, exploring their historical and contemporary relevance.Appetizers and Atmosphere: We meet at a local restaurant. The food will serve as the perfect backdrop for our gatherings. Enjoy delicious appetizers and drinks as we engage in meaningful conversations.How to Join:If you're excited about the prospect of exploring "The Ballot and the Bible" with like-minded individuals, we welcome you to join our group. Here's how:Contact Us: Reach out to Pastor Kevin at to express your interest and receive updates about our meetings or use the link below to express interest. We'll let you know when we will start gathering a few weeks before it startsGet the Book: Purchase a copy of "The Ballot and the Bible" by Kaitlyn Schiess or borrow it from your local library.RSVP: Prior to each meeting, we'll send out invitations. RSVP to let us know you'll be attending so that we can reserve the right size table.At the intersection of religion and politics lies a fascinating and often contentious terrain. "The Ballot and the Bible" promises to be an eye-opening guide through this complex landscape. Together, we'll explore the rich history of how scripture has been used and abused in American politics and contemplate where we go from here. Don't miss out on this opportunity to engage with a captivating book and a vibrant group of fellow readers. We look forward to welcoming you into our fold!

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Avoiding Versitis: Preventing a Lego-Like Misinterpretation

Posted By Pastor Kevin Rutledge

In the ever-evolving landscape of faith discussions, revisiting our approach to scripture is essential. The phrase "Love the sinner, hate the sin" has been central to many debates concerning human sexuality. As we reconsider this saying, we begin with the fundamental idea that context matters, drawing a surprising parallel between understanding scripture and building with Lego blocks.The Lego Lesson:My son has a Lego set with 253 pieces. This Lego set can be put together in one of three ways. It can form a parrot, a frog, or a fish. What's fascinating about this Lego set is that the same pieces can be used to create different things, depending on your perspective. The set can only form one of those things, but each is radically different. You have the power to decide which model to build.Legos vs. Bible Verses:How we previously learned to read the Bible can sometimes hinder our understanding of its profound message. We often read the Bible as a collection of verses, like Lego bricks, that can be pulled out and dealt with as if they can stand on their own. The Bible—a compilation of 66 books, 1,189 chapters, and 31,102 verses- is treated like a big box of Legos. We assemble the verses into a picture that we choose and think the worldview and theology built is biblical because all of the parts are from the Bible. Yet, when we focus on individual verses, picking and choosing from various parts of the Bible, we risk forming an image that mirrors our thoughts and beliefs rather than being challenged by the scripture that reflects the image of Jesus.A Collective Journey of Understanding:Our task is not merely to decide what to build with the Lego pieces of scripture. Instead, our responsibility is to work together in reading, interpreting, and applying scripture as a faith community. This collaborative effort ensures that we avoid the trap of picking and choosing Bible verses to fit the image we want to create. It challenges us to focus on the whole message of scripture.Join the Conversation:But understanding scripture is not a solitary endeavor. It's a journey best taken in the company of others who share a passion for exploring the depths of faith and scripture. We invite you to be a part of a faith community that wrestles with scripture, the questions we bring to it, and how we live it out.In our community, we value diversity in thought and interpretation. We understand faith isn't about conformity in how scripture is interpreted and applied but rather a shared exploration of its profound meaning. Join us in this journey of faith and understanding, where questions are welcomed and grace abounds.Conclusion:Breaking out of a Lego-building way of reading scripture and instead understanding the context empowers us to approach the Bible more deeply and accurately. In our faith journey, let us remember that, just as Lego pieces form a cohesive creation, scripture verses combine to convey a unified message. Stay tuned for upcoming blog posts that delve deeper into essential aspects of faith and understanding.

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Understanding Life’s Crossroads: Discovering the Significance of Closed Doors

Posted By Pastor Kevin Rutledge

Have you ever been faced with a closed door in life and wondered, 'Does God really open a window when He closes a door?' This age-old adage is frequently used to provide comfort during difficult times. But it's essential to understand the deeper implications of this saying and how it can shape our understanding of faith.Life is akin to an overwhelming menu at a diner, with a plethora of options to choose from. Decision-making can be a challenging task, and waiting for divine guidance might seem like the easiest route. However, sometimes, it's about trusting in God and taking that leap of faith. When a door closes, it might feel like a setback, causing seeds of doubt, confusion, and worry. But it's crucial to realize that an end is often a disguised beginning. The closed door might just be an indication that we were heading down the wrong path, and it might be a sign to reorient ourselves. As Christians, we need to trust God's grand design, even when it involves closing some doors behind us. Instead of waiting for God to show us the way, we need to move forward with faith. God guides us to the right door, but it's up to us to have the courage to knock and enter. So, what does this mean in our daily lives? Let’s look at an amusing incident involving a toddler, a locked door, and an open window. The child was encouraged to retrieve the keys from a locked house by climbing through an open window. This incident is a light-hearted analogy to explain the deeper spiritual truth. Sometimes, we are faced with a locked door, and instead of understanding that God has closed that door for a reason, we attempt to open it ourselves. Instead, we should focus on the open windows around us, trust in God's plan, and leap through them with faith.So next time you encounter a closed door in your life, don’t fret. Look around for the open windows. Move forward with faith, and trust in God's grand design. After all, when one door closes, another one opens. And who knows? That new door may lead to a path more beautiful and rewarding than the one we initially had in mind.

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The Role of Prayer and Doubt in Faith and Knowing God

Posted By Pastor Kevin Rutledge

It is common for individuals to grapple with doubts and questions surrounding their faith and understanding of the Bible. Many feel their prayers are too insignificant to matter to God, or they struggle with expressing their doubts about biblical teachings. However, it's crucial to understand that these doubts and questions are natural and integral to our spiritual journey.Artificial intelligence (AI) has recently been applied to biblical study.  A site was developed to enable you to "interact with biblical characters".  There are two problems with this approach to the bible. The first is that AI learning is only has diverse and comprehensive as the information fed into it.  If the source material is the commentary, sermons, and blog posts, of predominantly white conservative men, then the responses will be shaped by that interpretation of scripture.  The second problem is that biblical study and faith development cannot be reduced to information in answer out.  The growing in faith is never reducible to putting the bible information into a program and getting the one right answer. Therefore, a well-rounded approach to biblical learning should not rely solely on AI but involve individual study, group discussions, and spiritual encounters.At the core of biblical interpretation is wrestling with the scripture. This involves grappling with challenging concepts and navigating the complexities of AI learning about the Bible. Reducing the Bible to an information problem can limit our understanding. Delving into the Bible's heart is crucial, exploring translations, engaging in small group discussions, and encountering God's spirit. Our journey with faith is not about having the correct answers or beliefs but faith in Christ. Like the biblical heroes mentioned in the book of Hebrews, we may all have moments of doubt and questioning. Noah, Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob all questioned their faith at times, yet they achieved great things by faith.We should feel comfortable asking questions of faith in a safe environment, like the church. Engaging in dialogues about our faith can be a source of comfort and understanding. Through these collective discussions, we can foster growth and deepen our understanding of our faith. Our salvation does not hinge on our beliefs or how we answer questions but rather on our faith in Christ. Regardless of our doubts or questions, we can take comfort in being saved through Christ. Remember, faith involves asking questions, wrestling with the answers, and persistently seeking after God.In conclusion, whether you are grappling with questions about your faith or wrestling with the scripture, remember that you are not alone. Your journey of faith is personal, but it's also one you share with your church community. Don't shy away from asking questions or expressing doubts - they are a part of your faith journey. We can foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of our faith by embracing these questions and engaging in dialogue.

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Navigating Life's Choices: An Insight into God's Plan and Our Free Will

Posted By Pastor Kevin Rutledge

Life often confronts us with challenges that leave us questioning our choices and wondering about the divine plan. It's an intellectual quagmire that brings up existential queries about God's sovereignty and the notion of free will. This intricate discourse was brilliantly unpacked in a recent discussion exploring the intriguing interplay between God's plan and our personal decisions. It is common to hear that our trials are part of God's plan, which can lead to discomfort and confusion. The discourse introduced two ways of understanding God's plan - the blueprint plan and the plan of free will. The blueprint model suggests that everything happens as per God's preordained plan, which can lead to questioning whether our wrong choices have disrupted God's blueprint.On the other hand, the concept of free will can make us question God's absolute authority. An interesting alternative was proposed - viewing God's plan as a navigational compass, guiding us rather than dictating our every move. This perspective fosters a refreshing outlook where our wrong turns do not define us but guide us back to the path through God's grace. It emphasizes the teachings of Jesus and the importance of leaning on God during trials. A look back at the biblical era of the Babylonian exile shed light on God's constant companionship through life's trials.In contrast to the false prophets, Jeremiah's prophecies during this period highlighted that faith in God can bring comfort during difficult times. It was underscored that God is not orchestrating a divine plan but is walking with us, providing strength and guidance. Finally, the discussion delved into applying this understanding of God's plan in our ministry approach. Instead of following a rigid blueprint, we are encouraged to view God's plan as a navigational compass that guides our choices to honor and please God. In conclusion, understanding God's plan as a guiding compass rather than a rigid blueprint provides a liberating perspective on life. It encourages us to honor God through our choices, assuring us that even if we veer off course, God's grace guides us back. This exploration invites us on a journey of faith, grace, and guidance, assuring us that God walks with us, guiding us in our choices and decisions.

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Update from BSA Troop 181

Posted By Debbie Bellew

BSA Troop 181 met weekly in Schieck Hall to work on the American Business merit badge and rank advancement for our younger Scouts, and to prepare for their recent tent camping trip. Two more camping trips are planned for the school year before the big summer camp week over Fourth of July. In addition to learning new skills, the troop enjoys the chance to be of service -- as one example, the entire troop gathered in April to plant flowers on the BUMC grounds. Several older Scouts are currently preparing larger Eagle projects to give back to the community. If you know of boys ages 11-18 who are interested in joining the troop, please email joinpaoli181@gmail.com. Thank you, Berwyn United Methodist Church!

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Book Recommendation - What’s the Least I Can Believe and Still Be a Christian?: A Guide to What Matters Most

Posted By Marjorie Smink

What’s the Least I Can Believe and Still Be a Christian?: A Guide to What Matters Mostby Martin Thielen© 2011Martin Thielen, a senior pastor at Lebanon First United Methodist Church in Lebanon, Tennessee, is widely recognized as a national worship and preaching consultant, seminary teacher, and author. In his latest book, Thielen tackles the title question with his best effort to provide a comprehensive answer. The book is divided into two parts, each focusing on distinct aspects of Christian beliefs.Part I of the book presents a list of ten things that Thielen believes Christians don't need to believe. These include notions such as "Everything in the Bible Should Be Taken Literally" and "Good Christians Don't Doubt." By debunking these commonly held misconceptions, Thielen aims to challenge rigid interpretations of scripture and encourage a more nuanced understanding of faith.Part II of the book offers a contrasting list of ten things that Thielen asserts Christians do need to believe. These essential beliefs revolve around the life, teachings, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. By emphasizing the importance of these core tenets, Thielen underscores their capacity to provide meaningful and hopeful answers to life's profound questions.It is worth noting that Thielen's book specifically addresses moderate Christianity, presenting a perspective that is accessible and easily comprehensible. The author aims to distance his message from the judgmental, strident, and narrow-minded version of Christianity associated with the religious right. In doing so, Thielen seeks to promote a more inclusive and compassionate understanding of the faith, encouraging readers to explore the depths of their beliefs and engage with Christianity in a thoughtful and open-minded manner.

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CYEC Update

Posted By Janelle Larson & Kristine Adams

In last month’s The Lighted Cross, Janelle gave us an update on the Children and Youth Empowerment Centre. They were looking to start a Food Pantry to benefit those who need their services. Our Easter Sunday offering collection was earmarked for this food pantry. Well, we surpassed the goal of $750. $766 was collected!CYEC sends their thanks and gratitude for this wonderful gift. This will make a real difference in their community. Janelle will be traveling ot Kenya in May with students and she will provide an update and photos when she returns.

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Nursery School Update For May 2023

Posted By Jane Harris

It seems it was only yesterday that we welcomed our children into school, the year has flown by! It is a bittersweet time of year as we will be saying goodbye to some families who have been with us for many years. We look forward to celebrating our 5 Day children as they graduate preschool and prepare to leave us and continue their journey to kindergarten. We also welcome spring as a time of renewal as we encourage the children to observe the changes around them, including the caterpillars we have in our classrooms as they turn into butterflies.This year has again posed many challenges but we have worked through them with the support of our families and we are hopeful for the next school year. If you know anyone who is looking for a nurturing happy place to send their child, please pass on my email to them, director@bumns.org or check out our website, BUMNS.org, we would love to welcome them to our school. We would like to wish everyone a safe and good summer and look forward to returning in September.

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A Message to Berwyn From Music Director John Lewis

Posted By John Lewis

I want to thank you for all of the support you’ve given me over these past two years at Berwyn UMC. It has been my greatest joy to lead you in music for the greater glory of God. Hearing your voices, in both song and conversation, has enabled me to provide you with a beautiful landscape on which to make music and praise our Savior. I have always held dear your support of me and always knowing that God has great plans for me, and this next chapter, I pray, will be one of those great stepping stones. While the leaving brings sadness, the future is adorned with hope and excitement. What I have experienced with each and everyone of you has been more than just that of ministry, but also friendship. I cherish the conversations and laughter I’ve shared with all of you. The door remains open. Let us continue to share our joys and petitions with one another through phone calls, text messages, letters, and social media. I do not intend to become a stranger. =Once again, I write this statement of farewell with bittersweetness. Please pray for me as I take this next leap of faith in my professional career, just as I will continue to pray for the advancement and deepened spirituality of the Berwyn UMC community. In Christ,John Lewis

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Farwell to Music Director John Lewis

Posted By Pastor Kevin Rutledge

With gratitude and sadness, we announce that our talented music director, John Lewis, will be leaving our church to pursue a new opportunity at Newtown United Methodist. John has served our church for the past year and a half, and during this time, he has enriched our worship and strengthened our community in countless ways. Even during my short time here as your pastor, John’s gifts have blessed my own time of worship here at Berwyn, and I am sure he has done the same for you through skillfully directing our choir, playing the organ beautifully, and using his talented voice to sing modern worship music during our special music time. He has also brought in other musicians to share their gifts and bless our worship, making our services even more special and memorable. John’s passion for music and dedication to our church have been evident in all he does. In addition, he has been an excellent leader and mentor to our choir members, encouraging them to reach their full potential and inspiring them to share their love of music with our congregation. As we say goodbye, we want to use this time as an opportunity for reflection and renewed evaluation of our worship and music ministries. We want to evaluate our current practices and explore new possibilities for our worship. We are excited to see where this journey takes us and look forward to sharing our progress with you in the coming months. In the meantime, we are talking with organists that have played for us in the past to guide our worship music and ensure potential fits of their gifts and our future plans. During the summer months, many of us travel, and our schedules are more flexible, which gives us the perfect opportunity to explore new possibilities for our worship. We will experiment with different music styles, locations, and worship styles to see what resonates with our community. Some of the ideas we are exploring include holding dog-friendly worship services in our outdoor worship space, having a dinner church where we gather around a meal and share our faith, hosting a hands-on sensory worship experience called “messy church” and incorporating contemplative worship practices into our services. As we embark on this journey of experimentation and discovery, we ask for your prayers, attendance, support, and feedback. Of course, not everything we try will work, and not everything that works will work right away, but as we prayerfully step out in faith following the Holy Spirit, we know that we will experience God working in our midst in new ways. There are two direct actions that you can take as we embark on this summer of experimentation. First, as we offer new worship styles, invite your friends, family, and neighbors. This could help to grow the community and help new people experience the presence of God. Second, there will be various new opportunities to serve during worship, including setting up and tearing down, greeting people in new ways, and providing refreshments. Watch for emails and our website for upcoming worship and serving opportunities.

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Time For a Season of Reflection, Prayer & Fasting

Posted By Pastor Kevin Rutledge

As we enter the time of Lent, we enter a time of reflection and spiritual discipline practiced by Christians worldwide. It is the 40-day season leading up to Easter and is often marked with fasting, prayer, and self-reflection. It allows us to deepen our spiritual lives and grow our relationship with God.The season of lent originated in the early church as a time of preparation for Easter. Members were received and baptized on Easter, and those who were kicked out of the church because they refused to live by the church’s teaching were readmitted. During Lent, they fasted and prayed. They also studied and prepared for the commitment they were about to make.Now all Christians are invited to participate in the spiritual disciplines that mark the life seeking to grow more in love with Christ. These disciplines include fasting, prayer, and self-examination. John Wesley taught that these Means of Grace were available to all people and were a way through which God works to shape us to be more like Christ.The spiritual discipline most associated with Lent is fasting. Fasting, or giving up something we enjoy or value, is a way to remind ourselves that God should be our primary focus. Our ability or inability to give up that thing shows where in importance that thing is. It can also help us focus on God’s ability and desire to provide for our needs. If we cling to something so tightly that we can’t give it up, maybe we need to do just that to help us understand our dependence on God.Prayer is another Means of Grace focused on during Lent. In prayer, we deepen our communication with God and seek his Guidance and wisdom in our lives. Prayer is an essential part of the Christian life. We are encouraged to pray regularly and to make it a priority in our daily routines. When tied with fasting, when we feel the need or desire for what we have given up, we can instead enter a time of prayer, again emphasizing instead our need for God rather than our other desires.In all this, we have entered a time of self-reflection, looking at the things we value and how we spend our time. Are they in line with God’s desire for us and our desire to grow into the person God has created us to be? Are we using all the ways God has made available to us to experience His love and grow more like his Son, Jesus Christ?This year, we will be starting our Lenten practices with a joint service with Paoli United Methodist Church on Ash Wednesday, Wednesday, February 22nd, at 7:00 pm at Berwyn UMC. This service will feature an invitation to the Lenten disciplines, an imposition of ashes to remember our mortality, and communion to remind ourselves that we enter this season to focus first on Christ and we enter this season as a part of a community gathered around His banquet table. Pastor Alice and I hope to see you at this service.Lent is a critical time for those who follow Christ to deepen their spiritual lives, grow in their relationship with God, and be more like Christ in their living through practicing spiritual disciplines such as fasting, prayer, and self-reflection.How will you make this time Holy this year? 

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Chorus is Relaunching

Posted By John Lewis

Adult Choir is relaunching with a new rehearsal day and time. Many factors influenced this decision, and I hope it will make things easier for everyone and help attract new members. Choir will now be held on MONDAY evenings at 6 pm. Again, many factors influenced this decision, and I hope it will make things easier for all of us and help attract new members!If you are interested in joining us, please join us Monday evenings at 6 pm in the Sanctuary. All levels of singing experience are welcome.

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Scout Toop 181 Update

Posted By Debbie Bellew

Scouts BSA Troop 181 enjoyed a bowling night and a family ski trip in January, and the boys earned the Radio merit badge with guidance from a local ham radio enthusiast. The coming weeks bring a First Aid Meet competition and the next Court of Honor, at which the Scouts will be recognized for their achievements. Many thanks to Berwyn United Methodist for hosting our troop meetings. To the family of any interested boy aged 5th grade and up - please reach out to joinpaoli181@gmail.com and visit us the first Tuesday of each month at 7 pm in Schieck Hall. 

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Book Recommendation - Firstlight: The Early Inspirational Writings of Sue Monk Kidd

Posted By Marjorie Smink

Firstlight: The Early Inspirational Writingsby Sue Monk Kidd© 2006Sue Monk Kidd, a well-respected author of novels and spiritual memoirs, was asked by Guideposts to collect her early inspirational writings into one volume. The stories and essays in this book are the result of that request. They are gathered around thirteen spiritual motifs (Awareness, Compassion, Solitude…) and include reflections on the author’s many roles as mother, daughter, wife, nurse, author. These recollections include her childhood, her marriage, her year in Africa, and many other memories of ordinary moments which compile her spiritual journey. Firstlight became a bridge for the author to return to her early writings – a gift of reunion.

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BUMNS February Update

Posted By Jane Harris

Winter is marching along, and we at the nursery school hope the groundhog doesn’t see his shadow! We look forward to February, a month full of hearts and love. Our rooms and hallways will be filled with red and pink heart projects. We encourage the children to think about being good friends and to be kind to each other. Our 5-day children are encouraged to do kind deeds in February and beyond.  They read, ‘Kindness is Cooler, Mrs. Ruler’, and we ask their families and teachers to ‘catch’ them doing something kind and to give them a ‘kindness heart’ to add to and fill the notice board downstairs with their kind deeds. Stay safe and warm!   

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February 2023 Food Pantry Update

Posted By Krstine Adams

Berwyn UMC’s food pantry is open and running strong. The Pantry is open Tuesdays and Thursdays for members of our community to come and “shop” from our pantry room. All the items in the Pantry are donated by others in our area. Individuals can select their own food based on their individual needs. To preserve dignity and privacy, only two people can shop at a time, with a volunteer in the room to help if needed. We are encouraging people to use reusable bags each week. The Pantry is open Tuesdays from 9 am to noon and Thursdays from 2 pm to 6 pm. We ask that each person fill out a slip of paper to let us know how many people are in their household so we can get an idea of how many we are helping. Berwyn is also helping Chester County Food Bank on the third Monday of every month by distributing a food box to the residents of Trinity House. Currently, we help about 45-48 people a month at Trinity House and about 20 people a week at our Pantry. We are fortunate and appreciative that our Food Panty was the recipient of T/E Middle School’s Food Drive last Fall. Food items can be placed in the large bin in the narthex of the Church. Each month there is a list of items the pantry is looking for. Check out The Lighted Cross and our Facebook and Instagram each month for current needs. For February, the pantry is collecting: Personal Hygiene, Pasta, and Sauce.

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UMCOR Responds to Earthquakes in Southern Turkey and Northwest Syria

Posted By UMCOR

Donations to support this international disaster relief and any others that might occur can be made through Berwyn United Methodist Church to UMCOR Advance # 982450. 100% of all gifts gifts to an Advance are used for that project because the overhead costs of UMCOR are supported through regular gifts and the designated UMCOR Sunday offering. A 7.8 magnitude earthquake struck southern Turkey at 4:17 a.m. on Monday, Feb. 6, 2023, the most powerful earthquake recorded since 1939. In the hours that followed, at least 78 aftershocks were reported, followed by a second earthquake of 7.5 magnitude. More than 5,000 people were killed, with deaths expected to rise. The earthquake also heavily impacted northwest Syria, where 4.1 million people depend on humanitarian assistance. The majority are women and children. At this time, Syrian communities are simultaneously facing an ongoing cholera outbreak and extreme winter weather events, including heavy rain and snow. The humanitarian response is overstretched due to the devastation and cold weather. UMCOR has released an initial solidarity grant to a longstanding humanitarian partner, International Blue Crescent (IBC), which has offices in Turkey. The grant will provide tents, heaters, blankets, warm clothes, ready to eat meals and basic first aid kits.{[ vimeo id:'797167963' ]}

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What about the United Methodist Split?

Posted

Many of the people of Berwyn UMC have been asking questions about the state of the United Methodist Church, its stance on scripture, grace, human sexuality, and its commitment to Christ. This article has a youtube playlist of videos helping answer the question of Why be United Methodist, Do we take the scripture seriously, Do we take the scripture seriously, and is there a future with hope?There are many different positions and accusations made by those with undoubtedly sincerely held beliefs about those who disagree with them. It's impossible to summarize every topic completely, but the following youtube videos should help. They were recorded by Adam Hamilton, Pastor of the United Methodist Church of the Resurrection. They were in response to videos made by Rob Renfroe, a leader in the Global Methodist Church. There are some differences between the United Methodist Church and the Global Methodist Church, but the primary cause of division has been the church's stance on human sexuality. Why UMC? {[ youtube id:'62qtzyBVCv8' ]} Love of Scripture {[ youtube id:'us12L0Tsw_c' ]} Human Sexuality {[ youtube id:'YI0Keo9h5E8' ]} Committed to Christ {[ youtube id:'fK7-_cTdawU' ]} A Future of Hope {[ youtube id:'wbNchQ-V4GE' ]} Moving Forward with the UMC {[ youtube id:'hIfuxxowtXI' ]}

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Book Recommendation - I’m Still Here: Black Dignity in a World Made for Whiteness

Posted By Marjorie Smink

I’m Still Here: Black Dignity in a World Made for Whitenessby Austin Channing Brown© 2018Austin Channing Brown is a speaker, writer and media producer giving inspired leadership on racial justice in our country. Her book provides an intimate view of her life - growing up Black, Christian, and female in White America. She shows how White America’s claim to embrace “diversity” often falls short of its mission. It is an eye-opening look at how white middle-class Evangelicalism has taken part in an era of rising racial hostility, and it invites the reader to confront apathy and identify God’s ongoing work in the world. Austin Brown still has hope for racial equality in American, but it is a shadow of hope.

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A Message From the Lay Leader

Posted By Amy Dodds

Berwyn UMC became our church home soon after Larry and I were married and moved to Devon. We were both graduate students and although we didn't consider ourselves poor, attracted the care and welcome of Ann West and others in the congregation as they stopped by our apartment with not only a welcoming loaf of delicious banana bread, but a bag of groceries. The pastor at that time convinced us that we would be better served living in the Hurd House on the church property than in our apartment—and the rent was reasonable as long as we agreed to turn out the church lights and look after the property. BUMC quickly became our home away from the church homes we had known in Indiana, Virginia, New York and New Hampshire. We continue to find our church home in Berwyn despite moves to Havertown and then Bryn Mawr. First Hannah and then Wilson were baptized and confirmed in the church, attending Sunday School and singing in the choir when they were small. In addition to the wonderful people, ASP, The Peoples Emergency Shelter, Methodist Home, and other mission projects kept our minds and hearts busy and full. I am excited to support the much-needed church food pantry and hope that 2023 will see the church addressing food scarcity both in our immediate community and beyond. We hold tight to the friendships we have fostered through BUMC. The people of BUMC gift my family with love and care and have helped to raise our children in faith when grandparents and extended family are many miles away. We continue to be closely connected with those we love and whom we worship beside. I am excited to see how our church home will continue and expand to share our Christian message through mission and service to the community in 2023.

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Communion Committee Help Needed

Posted By Stephanie Borelly

The Communion Committee is in dire need of more volunteers. Currently, Stephanie Borelly and Judy Fisk are the only two volunteers. If either of them becomes unavailable, there would be no one else to set up Holy Communion. We offer Communion the first Sunday of the month so it is not a long term commitment. If you are interested, please contact the church office or Steph Borelly.

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Food Pantry Update

Posted By Claudia Genuardi

The Food Pantry has taken a big jump forward since we began. I want to offer my gratitude to all of the volunteers that are making it work so well. Many hours each week are going into this project which is serving our community.  Thank you to Carol Nelson, Veronica Mosely, Nancy Atchison, Patty Littlewood, Carol Williams, Jeff Barger, Marge Smink, Jeff Barger, Peggy Robinson, Susan and Vic Burriss and Pastor Kevin Rutledge. You have all lent a hand. On December 20th, T/E Middle School teachers arrived at BUMC to deliver some 1500 food items for our Food Pantry.  The food was collected during a school-wide food drive that benefited two local food pantries, including ours. Many thanks to the students, teachers, staff, parents and others who contributed their time and resources to provide this gift in support of our mission to serve our community.

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The Power to Resist Temptation

Posted By Pastor Kevin Rutledge

Dealing with temptation can be difficult, but it is essential for achieving our goals and living a fulfilling life. The power of temptation comes from its ability to get us to act in ways we would prefer not to act, and each person's temptations are unique.  Temptation can come in many forms, from unhealthy food to procrastination, and it can be easy to give in and fall back into bad habits. What might be benign for someone, say eating that extra piece of chocolate cake, can be life-altering for someone else. The goal is never to judge our own temptations and those of others but to identify them and seek to overcome them. However, we can learn to manage and overcome temptation by developing a few strategies and techniques. Watchfulness In Matthew 26:41, Jesus tells his disciples to "Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.” This passage reminds us that we have the power to resist temptation through prayer and being vigilant. Being present and paying attention to your thoughts and feelings can help you be more aware of when you are tempted and take steps to resist it. Identify the source of temptation. As you increase in watchfulness, you will grow in your ability to identify the people, places, and things that trigger your temptations. Understanding what triggers your temptations can help you to be more aware of them and take steps to avoid them. It could be something simple, like the location of a vending machine at work, or something more complex, like feeling stressed or anxious. Only as we become aware of what triggers our temptations can we build self-control to avoid them. Build Self Control Self-control is the ability to control one's actions, emotions, and desires rather than being controlled by them. This fruit of the spirit is a crucial aspect of Christian living as it allows us to resist temptations and make choices that align with God's will. We develop self-control through the work of the Holy Spirit in our lives, allowing us to resist temptations and make choices that align with God's will. Seek support Whom we surround ourselves with can have a tremendous impact on our behaviors. Our parents knew this when they tried to get us to hang out with well-behaved people and avoid people who were bad influences. Small groups, such as Bible study or accountability groups, can play an essential role in helping individuals avoid temptation. In addition, being part of a small group can provide a supportive environment for individuals to share their struggles with temptation and receive encouragement and guidance from others. Ultimately, dealing with temptation is a continuous process and will require a lot of patience and determination. The good news is that we have the example of Jesus Christ, tempted just as we are, and the power of the Holy Spirit available to us. We are not held captive by our desires and actions but are freed from them to live lives that are honor to God and reflect who we want to be in the world. The choice is yours as to whether you are ready to move forward or not. View a sermon from Pastor Kevin on Jesus' Temptation in the Wilderness. {[ mediaplayer media:'48EBE8A4-A8D8-496B-8194-8F76A5BEA761' autoresumeindays:'14' combineplaystatisticsindays:'14' width:'75%' ]}{[ endmediaplayer ]}

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Making Discpleship a Priority in the New Year

Posted By Pastor Kevin Rutledge

As we begin a new year, it’s a natural time for reflection and resolution-making. However, our faith is one area of life often overlooked when it comes to goal-setting. On January 1st, we had a Wesleyan Covenant Renewal Service, an opportunity to reaffirm our commitment to God and renew our promises to live following His will, as well as encouraging us to take steps in growing in faith and holiness. So, this year, let’s resolve to grow in our faith to deepen our understanding and relationship with God. John Wesley, the founder of Methodism, challenges us to continue growing in faith throughout our lives, to be “perfecting holiness in the fear of God” (2 Corinthians 7:1). One way to do this is by committing to regular Bible study and prayer. Setting aside time each day to read scripture and communicate with God can profoundly impact our spiritual growth. James 1:22 says, “But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves.” Consider finding a study group or accountability partner to keep you on track and share your journey. To help you kick start this resolution, we invite you to join our lunchtime small group on Wednesdays, starting February 1st. We will be reading and discussing the weekly narrative lectionary passages to study scripture in a deeper and more comprehensive way. Another way to grow in faith is by finding ways to put it into action. Look for opportunities to serve in your church, serve on a team, visit the elderly or homebound, or get involved in other church activities that align with your gifting and talents. One team that we are forming right now is a property maintenance team. This team will help us prioritize and budget for the year’s maintenance tasks, help coordinate service and repairs of both the church facility and parsonage and report to the leadership team any areas of concern you may have. As we serve others, we are fulfilling God’s commandment to love our neighbors; Matthew 25:40 says, “And the King will answer them, ‘Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me.’” We also experience the joy and fulfillment of living out our faith. Additionally, we can grow in faith by being intentional about our relationships with other believers and by being intentional about fellowship in the community of faith. Hebrews 10:25 says, “not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.” As we support and encourage one another, we will strengthen our faith. Keep an eye out for various worship opportunities on Sunday mornings and outside of the Sunday worship hour meant to help us experience the presence of God in new ways. We hope to see you at our small group on Wednesdays starting February 1st! Please reach out to Pastor Kevin for more information. And also for information about property maintenance volunteer needs. Let’s journey together in this new year, growing deeper in our understanding of God’s word and closer in our relationship with Him, constantly becoming more perfect in holiness and love of God. Your Servant in Christ, Pastor Kevin Rutledge

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BUMNS January Update

Posted By Jane Harris

The Nursery School wishes you all a very Happy and Healthy New Year! We will welcome the students back to school on January 3rd, including some new students to our 2-Day program. January is usually a calm month after all the festivities at the end of the year. This is a time of the year when the staff sees real growth in the students. Please take notice of our bulletin board in the hallway upstairs. The photographs represent activities happening in our school.

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BUMNS December 2022 Update

Posted By Jane Harris

December is upon us and 2022 is nearly over! The weather may be grey and cold but it is always bright and warm at nursery school. The hallways are filled with colorful holiday projects that the children have worked so hard on. The children are very excited for the holidays. We will be performing our holiday show on December 15th. Even the youngest children have a part to play and all have been practicing their songs. This is a cherished BUMNS tradition and we are happy there are no limits on participation this year.The Nursery School would like to wish you all a very merry Christmas and a peaceful, healthy New Year.

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Book Recommendation - Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff...and It’s All Small Stuff

Posted By Marjorie Smink

Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff...and It’s All Small Stuffby Richard Carlson© 1997Do little things in life drive you crazy? Author and consultant on stress and happiness, Richard Carlson, suggests ways to calm yourself in your hurried, stress-filled life. For instance, “Think of your problems as potential teachers.”; “Remember that when you die, your inbox will not be empty.”; “Try to live in the present moment.” With his gentle manner, Carlson shows ways to make your actions more peaceful and caring, thus helping make your life calmer and more stress-free.

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Tax-Advantaged Ways of Giving

Posted

Did you know that the Internal Revenue Code provides a way to support the ministry of Berwyn UMC that may lower the amount of tax you owe? It's true. By carefully structuring your gifts, you can reduce or eliminate substantial portions of your tax liability. Below are just a few ways. Gifts of appreciated assets such as stock, real estate, and collectibles: When donating an appreciated asset, the item’s current market value is deductible from your taxes. However, the gain on that asset is not taxed. For example, if you purchased stock for $1,000 that has risen to $2,000, it could be gifted to the church, and you receive a charitable deduction of $2,000. If you sold the stock and gave the church $2,000, you still receive the $2,000 deduction, but you will also have to pay a capital gains tax on the $1,000 profit. You avoid capital gains taxes if you give the asset to the church rather than selling it yourself. For those receiving income from retirement accounts such as IRAs or 401K, or 403B plans, donations from those accounts given directly to the church avoid paying taxes on the withdrawn amount. The amount given even counts toward your RMD— required minimum distribution—without increasing your taxable income. If your taxes are such that you are close to the threshold for itemized deductions, giving in one tax year may make sense while having the church allocate the donation to a different church year. For example, if your taxes are such that you anticipate being able to itemize this year but not next year, you can donate money in 2022 that you want to apply to the church’s budget. If you want more information about your donation options, please visit our church website, where you can learn about the various ways to give and initiate the process of making a stock gift. You may also speak to Steve Cherry, our Financial Secretary, or Pastor Kevin. They would be happy to answer any questions you may have.

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Stewardship For the Global Community

Posted By Steve Cherry

Paul Maina, an Oxford colleague of Janelle Larson, is in the states on break from his work as director of the Children & Youth Empowerment Center [CYEC] in Kenya. He spoke to the Every Topic Considered [ETC} Class on November 20th. You’ll recall that Berwyn UMC has partnered with him in support of this durable, successful project operating under extremely challenging conditions. Children and youth, many of whom were homeless and orphaned, are comprehensively supported giving them the best shot at whole and full life. Paul is articulate about the importance of helping young persons develop, in the Global Community in which we participate and are a part. We get to take part in God’s work while seeing the fruits of those labors bloom into success. [see emails: Giving Tuesday & Online Auction for Zawadi Fund International (ZFI), write to cyec.zfi@gmail.com or see website ] For Berwyn UMC to be a force in the global community your participation in the church community is essential. Over the next several weeks you’ll receive some special requests: One is to make a plan for giving to BUMC for 2023 and respond by US mail or email. This helps us prepare for the various ministries and missions to which we’re called.  You can return your commitment to the church office on or before worship on December 11th.  You can also complete the form online at https://berwynumc.org/pledgeThe other is to consider a ‘2nd mile,’ end-of-year gift as part of your 2022 tax year charitable planning. This will help us address a spending deficit for the year. You can give in person on Sunday Morning, mail your gift to the church, or give online.  Learn about all of thew says to support the mission and ministry of the church at https://berwynumc.org/givePaul Maina is one who inspires us to see ourselves as part of a world community, aware of those for whom Jesus cared beyond our local community. Thanks for your being a part of the Berwyn UMC witness and participating in the global community.

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Scout Troop 181 December 2022 Update

Posted By Debbie Bellew

This past month has been a busy one for Scouts BSA Troop 181, we camped at the Hawk Mountain Scout reservation on the Appalachian Trail, worked together on an Eagle Scout project (pictured) to rebuild steps at the Field of Dreams for the Berwyn Paoli Area Little League, and conducted a pre Thanksgiving food drive. We are looking forward to earning the Radio merit badge together next month. Interested boys age 11 or older are encouraged to join the troop for a fun bowling night at Devon Lanes on December 13 at 7:00pm, or join us for a sample meeting any first Tuesday of the month in Schieck Hall at 7:00pm. Please reach out with any questions to joinpaoli181@gmail.com or scoutmaster.1 81.paoli@gmail.com.

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Christmas Notes from Pastor Kevin

Posted By Pastor Kevin

Merry Christmas! Hearing those words can bring a smile to my face, especially from a loved one. Oh, but there is so much to do between now and Christmas, and each day of December seems to tick by at a lightning pace. In addition to our everyday business of working, keeping the house clean, getting children to their activities, and staying connected as a family, this time of year adds Christmas shopping, Christmas parties, Christmas decorating, and Christmas itself.Before you start calling me a Bah Humbug, I love Christmas. I love seeing my children's faces light up when the Christmas decorations turn on for the first time, just like they did when they were younger. I love that our children are old enough to help decorate the tree without worrying too much about broken ornaments. Where I struggle, and I say this as a pastor, is how to keep still long enough to focus on the time of advent and Christmas and to make sure my kids also keep the meaning of Christmas in their hearts.Let's be honest. The idea of adding anything new to an already busy schedule is terrifying, borderline sitting in the corner of my office rocking terrifying. However, suppose your season is just as busy, but you want to focus on the hopeful waiting of advent and the celebration of Christ's first coming in Christmas. In that case, I offer a few suggestions to transform what you are already doing into moments of faith formation.Tree Decorating: I don't know about your family's traditions, but our family decorates the tree together, at least after I wrestle with the lights for an hour or two. Rebecca hands the ornaments to each child, and they find places to hang them. Rebecca and I usually hang the last ornament – a ceramic door with our last name over it – and then we take our picture. Offering a blessing before you start can transform this fun, although sometimes frustrating, task into a moment of faith formation. Here is something you can use to bless your tree as you decorate it:God who created the birds in the air, the fish in the sea,      the stars in the sky, and the trees in the ground,      bless this tree as we decorate it and make it a joyful symbol in our home. May its branches remind us of the shade and shelter      you provide for us and for many creatures. May its trunk remind us of your strength. May its lights bring us peace. May we remember your gift to us this season, the gift of the baby Jesus. Amen.       Blessing Your Christmas Tree – Buildfaith.com Spending time with your Church Family: This year, on Sunday, December 18th, we will have our musical celebration of Lessons and Carols, followed by our church Christmas Dinner. I hope you will carve some time out of your busy season for this festive occasion. It is an excellent opportunity to invite friends and neighbors.Longest Night Service: Let's face it, the Christmas season can be challenging for many people. Whether they are grieving the loss of loved ones, are feeling lonely, or can't seem to get into the festive spirit they see in others this time of year. That is ok, and this year we are adding a service to our Christmas traditions called “The Longest Night Service.” This service, held on the First Day of Winter, December 21st, is a low-key contemplative service meant to give prayerful space to those who find the traditional Christmas celebrations challenging to manage.Christmas Eve: We sing our favorite carols and hear the Christmas story. Berwyn UMC will have our service at 7:00pm. This traditional service with candle lighting and communion is a perfect opportunity to sit and rest in the light and hope that Christ’s birth brings as we listen to and sing our favorite carols to the Christmas story.Christmas Day: We will have an informal celebration at our standard worship time of 10:00 am. There will be lessons, carols, and a brief message. Whether you come decked out in your favorite Christmas attire or show up in your favorite Christmas Jammies, you are welcome to this time of Joyful celebration.New Year's Day: We will gather at our standard worship time of 10:00 am for the Wesleyan Covenant Renewal Service. The heart of the service focused on the Covenant Prayer, requires persons to commit themselves to God. Wesley found the service rich and meaningful, as expressed in his Journal: "Many mourned before God, and many were comforted" (April 1756); "It was, as usual, a time of remarkable blessing" (October 1765). "It was an occasion for a variety of spiritual experiences ... I do not know that ever we had a greater blessing. Afterward, many desired to return thanks, either for a sense of pardon, for full salvation, or a fresh manifestation of His graces, healing all their backslidings" (January 1st, 1775). In London, these services were usually held on New Year's Day. My goal this Christmas is not to add more activities and duties but to transform the things that we already do into meaningful ways of sharing the story of Jesus. You can find more details in this newsletter and on our church website at https://www.berwynumc.org/Christmas. What are some of your favorite Christmas traditions?May your Christmas be Merry and Bright, Pastor Kevin 

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Transparency and Open Communication Are Key

Posted By Pastor Kevin Rutledge

This month we held the first of what I hope to be many Town Hall style meetings. At them, we shared a snapshot of the church’s finances, talked about the potential sale of some of our property, and how I approach church ministry. One of the meetings used ZOOM, and we have a recording to share. You can find it at https://berwynumc.org/townhalls. I heard two things from the meetings that I will make a priority to work on moving forward. The first piece of feedback I heard is that there is a lack of communication about what is going on at the church, the decisions made, and what it means for the broader ministry of the church, and a growing frustration among those who have volunteered to serve. The town halls are our first step toward greater transparency. My goal is to be as transparent as possible in all that we do and all decisions made so that you feel that you can trust what we are doing and our future. The second piece of feedback I am making a priority is that there are people who want to serve to serve but need to figure out how. They are either on teams that do not meet, teams that do not have leaders, or teams that do not meet regularly, or they are unable to make an ongoing team commitment but are available to be called on for various tasks that need completing. I take this feedback seriously because I have a core belief about the Church that God has gifted everyone so that God can work through them to further His kingdom-building work. To put it more succinctly, if you are still breathing, then God can still use you. However, if the way we are doing church is getting in the way of God unleashing the people to use their gifts, then we need to do church better. We discussed these two items at our last Leadership Team meeting, and I want to share the conversation results with you. Moving forward, we are making the following changes in how we work to address these concerns The leadership Team is asking Charge Conference to approve combining the work of SPRT, Finance, and Trustees into the work of the Leadership Team. This change brings us closer to the model of leadership suggested by the simplified leadership program partially implemented this year. Finance and Trustees were intentionally kept separate, but in a review of our work over the last year, we still have a significant overlap of people between these meetings that have caused a duplication of work and reporting. The goal is not to consolidate decision-making but to increase the efficiency of regular work, so there is time for creative work. We understand how important it is for the leadership team not to get disconnected from the congregation. However, I am concerned that there is no separate nominating team naming people for considering the leadership team and helping me identify and plan leadership development. I am looking for 4-6 people who not only know the people in the congregation but are good at identifying the skills, talents, gifts, and spiritual health of others. The Nominations team's primary task is to find leaders who are growing in their faith and who bring their gifts and talents to help shape the church's future direction. To address the second concern, I want to create three ministry teams whose primary purpose is to create, plan, evaluate, and guide ministries in nurture, outreach, and witness. I am looking for a small group of people who have a passion for one of these three areas who want to guide the ministry teams that exist in the work they do and provide a place for them to ask for help and to dream of new ways of growing our ministry in each of the three areas. Finally, I want to create a property management team. The purpose of this team is to evaluate the needs of the building and property, prioritize those needs, and manage a list of tasks and maintenance items that team leaders can submit so that people who are not on a team can find places to help as they have time. More recently, this work has fallen exclusively on the board of trustees and often on the chair of trustees, but historically, that has not been the role of the trustees.I do not believe the church can fix all of its problems through structural and policy changes. However, we can make incremental improvements in how we function so that we can enable creative ministry-transforming conversations to happen. When we equip and unleash everyone who has volunteered to serve in some way, we will see dramatic changes in our ministry's effectiveness.While I am still learning about everyone and their gifts, I do not yet have a list of people in mind who would be perfect in each of these areas. Therefore, in addition to reaching out to the members of existing teams, I am relying on you to either help me identify people or let me know if you want to serve in any of the areas above.Finally, please remember that our Leadership Team meetings, unless dealing with Staff issues, are open meetings, and anyone can attend. The usual schedule for those meetings is the 4th Thursday of the month. Any changes to that schedule are posted in the worship bulletin and on our website.

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Trunk or Treat Was a Hit Again This Year!

Posted By Kristine Adams

Once again, Berwyn UMC put on a fantastic family community event. We had a steady stream of families the whole two hours. Pastor Kevin set up a QR code for parents to fill out a form to win a door prize—how many pumpkin candies in the jar? We received about 80 responses—lots of adults and kiddos came to play with us.This cannot happen without the Trunks:David & Isabel AdamsAmy DoddsBrett & Cindy ShallcrossMark DeStefanoRebecca & Pastor Kevin RutledgeClaudia SharplessKrapf Transportation CompanyAliyah Bonsu & her Impact Project “Project Bee Blessed”I am once again thrilled with the turnout of the community and the unconditional support of this congregation. We are touching many lives with this event. We will continue to strive to be inclusive of all children regardless of age or ability. Save the date for next year: Saturday, October 22, 2023.

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Troop 181 November 2022 Update

Posted

Scouts BSA Troop 181 held its annual recruiting campout at BUMC on October 8-9. The weather was chilly but clear and Scouts and guests enjoyed archery, a barbecue, and tent camping on the grass. All had a great time and appreciated BUMC’s wonderful grounds and gracious church hosts. The Scouts were also glad to practice “A Scout is Helpful” earlier that week by assisting with setup for the church’s Fall Fest sale.At the weekly meetings this month the Scouts are checking over their camping supplies, practicing first aid, and preparing for a visit to Hawk Mountain Scout Reservation.If you have boys ages 11-17 who are interested in Scouts, please visit us in Schieck Hall the first Tuesday of each month at 7pm or email joinpaoli181@gmail.com.

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Nursery School Update for November 2022

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The Nursery School enjoyed their Halloween Parades and now it is time to look forward to November and Thanksgiving! Our classrooms will soon be decorated with turkeys and pumpkin pies and descriptions of what the children are thankful for. Even the youngest children can relate to things and people they are grateful for. We encourage the children to share their gratitude and their family Thanksgiving traditions with their classmates. They will join together for a Thanksgiving Feast where they will share food that the parent’s provide. We at BUMNS, have a lot to be thankful for, we are especially thankful for the support the church continually gives us. We wish everyone a good Thanksgiving. 

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Book Recommendation - Jesus and His World

Posted By Marjorie Smink

Jesus and His Worldby Craig A. Evansc2012Craig Evans is an internationally distinguished authority on the historical Jesus. With this book he brings to light archeological discoveries about Jesus’ world to the layman in an easy-to-read manner. He enables the reader to understand and consider the latest theories about who Jesus was and for what he lived and died. What was the village of Nazareth really like in the time of Jesus? What do we know through archeology about the ruling priests who condemned Jesus to die? This book is a useful starting point for evaluating often ignored sources and their impact on our comprehension of the historical Jesus.

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A Time of Recovery, Challenge and Opportunity

Posted By John Paylor

The whole world was thrown into turmoil in 2018 with the outbreak of the Covid virus. Fear and paralysis gripped entire populations as people cowered before this unknown threat. Governments and institutions imposed lockdowns in efforts to protect their citizens from infection, and life began a slowdown as individuals were unwilling to venture out to shop, work, or attend any public event where contact with others might lead to exposure to the virus.Our church was not immune to these events. Our Sunday worship services were suspended and we ceased to meet in person for events or fellowship. But our congregation exhibited a spirit of resilience. We instituted an on-line worship experience and utilized Zoom capabilities or parking lot gatherings for various meetings, Bible study and other events. But these services generated additional expenses, and our regular contributions declined.Only in recent months have we begun to see a recovery from these times. We are worshipping and meeting together again, although our worship attendance is lower. Our financial giving and other income remain below pre-pandemic levels. We may long to return to the former times, but we know deep inside that this is not possible. We face a world that has changed; a challenge of new and different times. Life, and our church, will not be the same going forward.Honestly recognizing this reality presents new opportunities. As we look and move into a new and different future we can grasp these opportunities to create a better Berwyn United Methodist Church well suited to grapple with, overcome and build on new and different challenges.All this requires that we see and respond to visions of life that can become realities. To do this we must remain committed to support our church with our prayers, our presence, our gifts, our service and our witness. Regular financial gifts are an important part of this commitment. Financial resources undergird and make possible our continued presence, witness and service.

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You are God's Masterpiece

Posted By Pastor Kevin Rutledge

“10 For we are what he has made us, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we may walk in them.” ~ Ephesians 2:10 Have you ever considered yourself a masterpiece? When you look in the mirror, have you ever told yourself that God made you for a purpose? Have you ever considered that when God made you, you would go through life circumstances that would develop skills and a mindset that God could use?These are bold statements, especially if you have experienced anything negative in your life. The last thing I want to do is suggest that God causes bad things to happen to us. As we pray for Florida and Cuba right now, the last thing that any Christian should do is say that the hurricane is God's retribution for _____________ (fill in the blank here with whatever sinful behavior that makes you angriest). However, Romans 8:28 says that "all things work together for good for those who love God." It is not that God only causes good things or that God is causing bad things to happen to build you up. Still, it does mean that through Christ, those things we would have rather not happened can be redeemed and transformed, and good can come from it. We see this clearly demonstrated through Jesus' death on the cross. One of the most excruciating means of putting someone to death, which I wish Jesus did not endure, was transformed into good, so the world could be brought to life. In this, I find hope, not because it means that my actions against another are not important since God will transform them for something good. But, when I look back at all the things that have happened to me over my life, things that I did and others have done, I can take heart and hope that they can be redeemed and used by God for his purposes. In some ways, I see those times as already redeemed because I have been able to speak words of kindness and hope to people going through their difficult times from a place not only of distant empathy but of personal experiences of survival. If you look at your own experiences, you too may find those places. Despite all the world tried to throw at you, God worked within them and you to bring about good. None of those experiences diminish the fact that you are God's masterpiece, knit together for your good and for the good of others. We act not because we earn God's love through our actions, but because of God's love, we can act. As we move forward in ministry together, we must find a way to recapture what it means to be God's masterpiece for the purpose of good works, just like Abram and his descendants being a blessing to bless others. The hope for the future of Berwyn United Methodist Church rests on God's calling upon us to love and serve our community and to share the good news of Jesus Christ. That calling then lands on every one of us to answer the call with all that we are and with all that God has gifted us to live into the future that God has planned for us. My prayer is that we will all answer that call. Pastor Kevin 

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Stewardship and You

Posted By Steve Cherry

Berwyn UM Church started using its new Audio-Visual System on Sunday, September 25th. While we will grow into using the system more fully, we have already seen improvements in sound quality. The feedback we heard was mostly positive, with some stating they were not so sure they would like it but were pleased with how it turned out. The improvement helps to bring the church into the new age of Christian engagement and experience and opens many new avenues for inclusive and interactive worship. The story of how this project was funded is a testament to God’s blessing. There are about seven sources from which funding made the project possible. Church donors involved stepped up significantly to manage the $36,000 price tag. We join together in thankfulness to everyone who made this possible and hope that you will join us on Sundays to experience, first-hand, the new look and sound of in-person worship at Berwyn Church.When we embark on fundraising for this type of project, we approach one type of giver. You may find yourself in one or more of the three types of givers who support the church's mission.First, there are those who support the church, usually through providing a yearly estimate of giving. Giving in this way helps the church budget, plan for staffing expenses, and plan ongoing ministries. Without people who submit and honor their yearly giving estimates, we are unable to adequately prepare a ministry action plan that is both daring and audacious but also financially sustainable. As we move closer to November, please consider if you will submit a yearly giving estimate or pledge and for what amount.Second, there are those who give to support specific ministries or projects they feel passionate about. These gifts are sometimes called second-mile gifts because they are above and beyond their yearly giving. These estimates help us to launch new ministries initiatives, projects, or capital expenses that arise throughout the year. This type of gift enabled the Audio-Visual upgrades without stressing this year’s budget.Third, there are those who support the church through legacy giving. We are grateful that people remember Berwyn United Methodist Church in their estate planning. This type of gift is either to the general endowment that restricts how much can be used each year or through other designated gifts. The primary purpose of this type of giving is to leave a legacy by supporting the church's work long after the giver has joined the church triumphant.One gift that may stand out in your memory was a gift to pay the mortgage principal from the building project. This gift has kept a significant expense from impacting ministries and the budget that funds them over the last few years. Unfortunately, this legacy gift ran out at the end of August, which transitions those expenses back to the yearly operating budget.The church's work, its yearly planning, and its ongoing future are only made possible because its members and participants support it through their gifts of time, talent, prayer, and treasure. Without any one of these things, we cannot move into the future that God has in store for us. We appreciate those who support the church through those means enabling the mission and ministry of the church to continue.This year, like years past, we operate at a financial deficit, trying to maintain the church's ministries with fewer and fewer resources. Unfortunately, this year’s deficit may reach as high as $70k. The deficit has been covered by reserve and special gifts, but that is not a sustainable way of running and growing a thriving church. We would ask you to think openly about your gifts, talents, and passions and invest yourself as fully as you can in our mission to share the good news of Jesus Christ with our community to make a lasting impact on the world for the glory of God.How would you like to be involved, answering that passion, in giving and/or in serving? What are your ideas!? What new things should we be doing? In all this, your stewardship can take shape. Please look for the announcement of three town hall-style meetings scheduled in the third week of October. This is where you will have a chance to ask questions about the current state of the church and where we will have an opportunity to share the plans for the future. There are two in-person meetings and one online for those who are unable to attend in person. 

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A Note From Your Lay Leader

Posted By Amy Dodds

Fall has long been my favorite season. Fall is a time of great change in nature the less structured days of summer have passed, and we look forward to a new season. I love the varied color of the fall leaves, blue skies, and the cooler autumn air. There is a sense of excitement for the change and perhaps the opportunity for new growth. Fall is also a time for new obligations: the beginning of school for the kids, a renewed commitment to church attendance and Sunday school, sports schedules, the coming Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays, and so much more. As much as we love doing all of it, these new commitments can leave us feeling stressed out and tired and maybe even overwhelmed. Perhaps we can find inspiration from Paul in his message to Galatians as he reminds us we are challenged to do good and not feel weary: "And let us not grow weary in doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart." ~ Galatians 6:9 At times it may feel as if no one sees or appreciates the good work we are doing, but GOD sees the effort, and he does not want us to give up! We are reminded that the seeds we sow to- day will determine what we reap in the future. GOD is on our side … just as GOD creates the beauty of the fall leaves; He also wants to create beauty in our lives. GOD knows we are only human, and when we become discouraged, He wants to encourage us to continue in our work, and not grow weary in doing good. When we do, He promises we will reap the reward of a life well-lived. During this time of great change in nature, I offer to you a reminder to take the time to rest but forge forward in our work together, to not grow weary, and to revel in the beauty GOD has put in your life today. 

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Book Recommendation - The Language of Science and Faith

Posted By Marjorie Smink

The Language of Science and Faith by Karl W. Giberson and Francis S. Collinsc2011As Christians, do we have to choose between affirming that everything exists because of God or accepting the explanation of nature by science which does not include God in the picture? Giberson and Collins claim that we do not have to choose one or the other, for science does not discount the Bible, and faith does not reject science. Their dialogue explains how God cares for and interacts with his creation, while science offers a reliable way to understand the world God made. The authors clear up the erroneous conclusions of Christians and atheists about science and evolution by sharing the results of research in physics, geology, astronomy, and genetics. This book will become a classic for those who read it with an open mind and are willing to wrestle with questions about the relationship of modern science with the Christian faith.

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Member Highlight - Debbie Nemetz

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Consummate banker, Debbie served as a lead counter for the Berwyn UMC Counters Team for many years. She ran the numbers for the last time late in September. So it is time to thank her for her leadership and diligent work. The Team consists of about five persons who, every other week, meet to process gifts received from Sunday offerings and other donations, preparing all for the corresponding bank deposit. Because Debbie worked for many years for PNC Bank, her expertise in banking operations allowed her to both lead and teach. The Counters Team currently also consists of Judy Edinger, Betsy Newman, Claudia Sharpless, and Carol Williams, all working under the watchful eye of Veronica Mosley, serving as Finance Secretary.

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Member Highlight - John Paylor Esq

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Since 2018, John has served as Treasurer for Berwyn UM Church. As he said, ‘I always had an interest in finance,’ so he asked to serve on the Finance Committee when there was a need for support of the financial work of the congregation. At that time, we began to use a company called Church Shield to manage bookkeeping and accounts payable. John was able and willing to become the main contact with the bookkeeping service to support Barbara Stockler, who has also been a skilled member of the Finance Team and was our main bank contact. (The church banks with Customers Bank, Phoenixville.) The rest is ‘treasurer history.’ One of John’s accomplishments was establishing a new, comprehensive, and unified chart of accounts, so that we have as clear as possible a picture of operating, restricted and pass-through accounts. This is second only to his massive effort to successfully manage our application for the CARES ACT loan, which was ultimately forgiven. This allowed the Church and Nursery School to realize about $90,000 in funding that helped us navigate the tough days ofthe pandemic. John’s tireless work with the bank and required paperwork allowed the process to unfold for us smoothly.  John will be stepping down as Treasurer and from the Leadership Team shortly, and in preparation, new arrangements are being made. But in the meantime, deep thanks are due to John for his faithful, detailed, meticulous, and prayerful service on behalf of the finance ministry of the congregation. 

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Nursery School Update for October 2022

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The nursery school is full of happy smiles and children’s laughter once again. We had a few tears from our youngest friends, to begin with, but they soon dried up. It always amazes us how quickly children adapt to their new environments.   The hallways will soon be full of Halloween decorations, and the children are already discussing their Halloween costumes! We will be having our annual Halloween parade at the end of October. Thank you to the church for the invitation to the BUMC Trunk and Treat on October 22nd. We are excited that our youngest friends have an artificial surface to play on now, it can be used in all weathers now. Please take a look at all the happy faces in the ‘First day at BUMNS’ photos on the notice board inside the entrance to the nursery school. 

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Troop 181 October 2022 Update

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Scouts BSA Troop 181 spent an enjoyable summer filled with camping, advancement activities, and plans for service over the course of the school year. Since reconvening in August, the Troop has already held a welcoming event at BUMC for prospective future Scouts (check out our display at the Easttown Library lobby!) and a weekend campout kayaking and canoeing in New Jersey. Meetings are weekly at BUMC with camping trips monthly, including a get-to-know-us event in the church backyard October 8-9. Boys older than 11 are encouraged to join us for a sample meeting any first Tuesday of the month at 7:00pm. Please reach out with any questions to joinpaoli181@gmail.com or scoutmaster.181.paoli@gmail.com. We appreciate BUMC’s partnership in hosting Troop 181 for many years. Pictured: Scouts and their families gathered at Schieck Hall on September 20 for a Court of Honor to celebrate the boys’ many accomplishments. Pictured: Display at Easttown Library

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