CENTRAL UMC

Sunday Greeters

Are you looking for a way to participate on Sundays? Sign-up to be a Sunday Greeter! A sign-up sheet is in the entryway. We would like to have 2 people for each Sunday. If you have any questions, please contact Carol Hinshaw.

Starr Neighborhood Cleanup

Alley Community Action Team invites you to join them on Saturday, April 22^nd from 10am – 12:30pm. They will start at The Reid Center, 1004 N. A St. Youth groups could will $100! Free cookout to all who attend at 12:15pm. If you have any questions, please contact Martin Holman at 765-220-0803 or email pastormartin@hbcrichmond.com

Lamplighter Assembly Team – Volunteers Needed!

For many years, Mary Ann Brooks, Louise McIntosh, Marilyn Gauthier, and Flo Arthur have helped me assemble the monthly newsletter. I have greatly appreciated their time and efforts in helping me, but they would like to retire. Lamplighter assembly happens on the last Wednesday on the month at 10am. It only requires about 2 hours of folding, sealing, and addressing the newsletter. Mary Ann, Louise, Marilyn, and Flo will be happy to train anyone interested. If you have any questions or would like to volunteer, please contact me at christin@richmondcumc.com or call the office at 765-962-8543. Thank you ladies for all of your hard work over the years! – Christin Hampton

Sunrise Service

Central will again be joining Centerville and First United Methodist Churches for the 7am Easter Sunrise Service and Breakfast at Cope Environmental Center. Please share with others in the community. Central has been asked to help with the drinks for the breakfast. If you would like to bring drinks or help in other ways, please contact Pastor Joseph.

Richmond Gideons Membership

The Richmond Camp is seeking new members. We are looking for men who can help us distribute God’s word. If you are interested, please contact the Membership Chairman, Jack Doyle, at 2310 Parkdale Dr., Richmond, IN 47374

Camp!

Happy Birthday!

Grief Share

No matter what the circumstances, grief recovery is a painful process. To aid in that journey, a community Grief Share support group jointly hosted by the First Presbyterian and the First English Lutheran Churches of Richmond is available and will start on Thursday, April 13th at the First English Lutheran Church, 2727 East Main Street in Richmond and will continue through July 6th. The group will meet each Thursday afternoon from 4:30pm – 6:00pm for the 13-week program. For more information or to pre-register, call 765-962-5773 or email parishadministrator@felconline.org

Easter Morning Scavenger Hunt!

THE JOYSINGERS CHOIR invites you to share Easter with their FIRST ANNUAL SCAVENGER HUNT! The kiddos will be “hiding” Inspirational stuff, Cute stuff, and Just Silly stuff throughout the church – but in plain sight! The search starts on Easter Sunday – arrive early or stay late – this hunt is for “kids” of ALL ages! Please share the joy of the season with the choir, as they thank you for your continued support!

Red Cross Blood Drive May 3rd

We are now scheduled for our spring blood drive to support the American Red Cross in their effort to address the critical blood shortage which exists. We have a number of slots to fill, so we are looking for past CUMC donors, as well as new donors, to get registered in order to make this a successful blood drive. Go to redcrossblood.org and enter code CUMCRICH in the box that says find a blood drive. Appointment times are available 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Wednesday, May 3, 2023. The drive will be held in the multipurpose room. Questions? Contact Dana Mollenkopf at papamole@comcast.net or at 765-277-0287.

Invitation to Silence

CH Spurgeon writes, “There are times when solitude is better than society, and silence is wider than speech. We should be better Christians if we were more alone, waiting upon God.” Christian Discipleship calls us to a road where we will inevitably encounter silence. With Jesus, we can embrace it rather than avoid it. On April 26, we will again have an invitation to the spiritual discipline of silence. We will gather at Hayes Arboretum from 9-3 to learn more about the spiritual discipline, to pray, and to be in silence. The cost is $10 and is open to the public. Lunch will be included. Please contact Pastor Joseph by April 23rd to register.

Refuge of Hope

Information Session THIS SUNDAY!

An information session will be held on Sunday, March 19th at 12:00 in the sanctuary. Russ Abel, our conference superintendent, will provide information for our congregation regarding disaffiliation from the UMC. There will be a light lunch provided in the Fellowship Hall between the end of Sunday worship and the beginning if the information session at 12:00. The Administrative Council will make a decision whether to proceed with a vote to disaffiliate at the March 23^rd meeting at 6:30 PM in Fellowship Hall. Please feel free to attend the meeting to address the Council with your preference regarding our congregation voting at this time. Please also feel free to reach out to any of the members of the Ad Council and communicate your preference if you would prefer to speak individually.

Sunrise Service

Garage Sale

We are having a GARAGE SALE April 29th! So bring items in and put them outside the office. We appreciate your support. If you have any question, please contact Shanron Rider or the church office.

Central Childcare

Thank you to everyone that has donated supplies and funds to Central Childcare! If you want to hear about all the wonderful things we are doing for our kids and their families, feel free to talk with Kathy George, our Childcare Director, by emailing cumcchildcare@richmondcumc.com or by calling 765-962-8543. We are still in need of a few items; Tissues, Plastic tote boxes (all sizes), Various craft/sensory supplies like; glue (white or clear), corn starch, empty water bottles, and Empty Coffee cans. We also offer a variety of snacks that include Graham crackers, cheez-its, goldfish crackers, Nutrigrain bars, animal crackers, honey nut cheerios, mandarin orange cups, canned peas, and canned corn.

Red Cross Blood Drive May 3rd

We are now scheduled for our spring blood drive to support the American Red Cross in their effort to address the critical blood shortage which exists. We have a number of slots to fill, so we are looking for past CUMC donors, as well as new donors, to get registered in order to make this a successful blood drive. Go to redcrossblood.org and enter code CUMCRICH in the box that says find a blood drive. Appointment times are available 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Wednesday, May 3, 2023. The drive will be held in the multipurpose room. Questions? Contact Dana Mollenkopf at papamole@comcast.net or at 765-277-0287.

Richmond Gideons Membership

The Richmond Camp is seeking new members. We are looking for men who can help us distribute God’s word. If you are interested, please contact the Membership Chairman, Jack Doyle, at 2310 Parkdale Dr., Richmond, IN 47374

Camp!

Sign-ups are open for Summer Camp at one of our seven Impact Camps across the State. Go to impact2818.org for more information or ask a pastor. All Central youth automatically receive a 1/2 scholarship due to the generosity of the congregation. Contact a pastor or the church office on how to sign up. Happy Camping!

Grief Share

No matter what the circumstances, grief recovery is a painful process. To aid in that journey, a community Grief Share support group jointly hosted by the First Presbyterian and the First English Lutheran Churches of Richmond is available and will start on Thursday, April 13th at the First English Lutheran Church, 2727 East Main Street in Richmond and will continue through July 6th. The group will meet each Thursday afternoon from 4:30pm – 6:00pm for the 13-week program. For more information or to pre-register, call 765-962-5773 or email parishadministrator@felconline.org

Save the Date!

Starr Neighborhood Cleanup – Saturday, April 22nd from 10am – 12:30pm. More info to come.

Sunrise Service

Central will again be joining Centerville and First United Methodist Churches for the 7am Easter Sunrise Service and Breakfast at Cope Environmental Center. Please share with others in the community. Central has been asked to help with the drinks for the breakfast. If you would like to bring drinks or help in other ways, please contact Pastor Joseph.

Community Food Pantry Sunday is Sunday!

Community Food Pantry Sunday is always the second Sunday of the month. The pantry needs our contributions of food and other necessities. We are currently in need of Non-perishable items, cereal, and instant mashed potatoes. Cash contributions may also be made using the envelopes in the pew racks. Simply mark them for “Food Pantry” and place in the offering plate.

Information Session

Garage Sale

We are having a GARAGE SALE April 29th! So bring items in and put them outside the office. We appreciate your support. If you have any question, please contact Shanron Rider or the church office.

Central Childcare Thanks You!

Thank you to everyone that has donated supplies and funds to Central Childcare. We are so excited about things to come in the near future starting with expanding into a 3 and 4 year old classroom! If you want to hear about all the wonderful things we are doing for our kids and their families, feel free to talk with Kathy George, our Childcare Director, by emailing cumcchildcare@richmondcumc.com or by calling 765-962-8543. We are still in need of a few items; Tissues, Plastic tote boxes (all sizes), Various craft/sensory supplies like; glue (white or clear), corn starch, empty water bottles, Empty Coffee cans, Empty Paper towel or toilet paper rolls, etc., Sponges, Mr Clean Magic Erasers, and Dish Soap. If you would like to give a monetary donation, it will be used to provide snacks for our classrooms. Again, thank you to everyone who as donated so far!

Community Emergency Relief Room

Referrals to the Relief Room have been coming in rather frequently. Our supply of men’s shoes is getting small. Dress shoes are not needed but casual shoes, tennis shoes and shoe boots would be helpful. Kitchen items and small pieces of furniture are always in need. THANKS!

Lamplighter Devotionals and Testimonies

We are asking for devotionals and testimonies from the congregation to be shared in a future Lamplighter. If you feel led to share, please submit yours to Christin at christin@richmondcumc.com 

Red Cross Blood Drive May 3rd

We are now scheduled for our spring blood drive to support the American Red Cross in their effort to address the critical blood shortage which exists. We have a number of slots to fill, so we are looking for past CUMC donors, as well as new donors, to get registered in order to make this a successful blood drive. Go to redcrossblood.org and enter code CUMCRICH in the box that says find a blood drive. Appointment times are available 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Wednesday, May 3, 2023. The drive will be held in the multipurpose room. Questions? Contact Dana Mollenkopf at papamole@comcast.net or at 765-277-0287. 

Information Session

An information session will be held on Sunday, March 19th at 12:00 in the sanctuary. Russ Abel, our conference superintendent, will provide information for our congregation regarding disaffiliation from the UMC. There will be a light lunch provided in the Fellowship Hall between the end of Sunday worship and the beginning if the information session at 12:00. The Administrative Council will make a decision whether to proceed with a vote to disaffiliate at the March 23^rd meeting at 6:30 PM in Fellowship Hall. Please feel free to attend the meeting to address the Council with your preference regarding our congregation voting at this time. Please also feel free to reach out to any of the members of the Ad Council and communicate your preference if you would prefer to speak individually.

UMCOR RESPONSE TO EARTHQUAKES IN TURKEY AND SYRIA

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. The earthquake and aftershocks also impacted northwest Syria, where 4.1 million people depend on humanitarian assistance. Syrian communities, many of them women and children, are simultaneously facing an ongoing cholera outbreak and extreme winter weather, including heavy rain and snow. to give to UMCOR, please make a check out to Central United Methodist Church and put “Earthquakes” in the memo line. Or donate online here

UWF Meeting

United Women in Faith will meet this Thursday. March 9th at 1:00pm in Fellowship Hall. A short business meeting will be followed by our speaker, Elizabeth Holmes, who will tell us about ABILITIES, a local nonprofit which serves disabled people in our community and about their exciting plans for the future. If you would like to join us for lunch at 12:00, please let Shanron Rider or Mary Ann Brooks know that you are coming. Come join us for food and fellowship. All are welcome!

Central Childcare Thanks You!

Thank you to everyone that has donated supplies and funds to Central Childcare. We are so excited about things to come in the near future starting with expanding into a 3 and 4 year old classroom! If you want to hear about all the wonderful things we are doing for our kids and their families, feel free to talk with Kathy George, our Childcare Director, by emailing cumcchildcare@richmondcumc.com or by calling 765-962-8543. We are still in need of a few items; Tissues, Plastic tote boxes (all sizes), Various craft/sensory supplies like; glue (white or clear), corn starch, empty water bottles, Empty Coffee cans, Empty Paper towel or toilet paper rolls, etc., Sponges, Mr Clean Magic Erasers, and Dish Soap. If you would like to give a monetary donation, it will be used to provide snacks for our classrooms. Again, thank you to everyone who as donated so far!

Community Emergency Relief Room

Referrals to the Relief Room have been coming in rather frequently. Our supply of men’s shoes is getting small. Dress shoes are not needed but casual shoes, tennis shoes and shoe boots would be helpful. Kitchen items and small pieces of furniture are always in need. THANKS!

Sunrise Service

Central will again be joining Centerville and First United Methodist Churches for the 7am Easter Sunrise Service and Breakfast at Cope Environmental Center. Please share with others in the community. Central has been asked to help with the drinks for the breakfast. If you would like to bring drinks or help in other ways, please contact Pastor Joseph.

Lamplighter Devotionals and Testimonies

We are asking for devotionals and testimonies from the congregation to be shared in a future Lamplighter. If you feel led to share, please submit yours to Christin at christin@richmondcumc.com 

Garage Sale

We are having a GARAGE SALE April 29th! So bring items in and put them outside the office. We appreciate your support. If you have any question, please contact Shanron Rider or the church office.

Red Cross Blood Drive May 3rd

Tribe Parent Meeting Sunday

Sunday we will have a parent meeting for members of Tribe from 5-5:30pm while the youth are at Tribe. We will discuss the upcoming mission trip, Fusion, camp, and other parts of Tribe’s future.

Central Childcare Thanks You!

Thank you to everyone that has donated supplies and funds to Central Childcare. We are so excited about things to come in the near future starting with expanding into a 3 and 4 year old classroom! If you want to hear about all the wonderful things we are doing for our kids and their families, feel free to talk with Kathy George, our Childcare Director, by emailing cumcchildcare@richmondcumc.com or by calling 765-962-8543. We are still in need of a few items; Tissues, Plastic tote boxes (all sizes), Various craft/sensory supplies like; glue (white or clear), corn starch, empty water bottles, Empty Coffee cans, Empty Paper towel or toilet paper rolls, etc., Sponges, Mr Clean Magic Erasers, and Dish Soap. If you would like to give a monetary donation, it will be used to provide snacks for our classrooms. Again, thank you to everyone who as donated so far!

Community Emergency Relief Room

Referrals to the Relief Room have been coming in rather frequently. Our supply of men’s shoes is getting small. Dress shoes are not needed but casual shoes, tennis shoes and shoe boots would be helpful. Kitchen items and small pieces of furniture are always in need. THANKS!

Overnight Warming Station

An awesome group of community members have been working together to establish a temporary overnight warming station to assist with overflow from existing shelters. The goal is to provide a warm, safe place for those in need in extreme weather conditions. As the final planning is happening and facility is being secured, volunteers are needed to be available to help at the shelter. Please consider signing up to help meet this important need as colder weather is approaching. There are several different ways you can help. Once signed up, someone will connect with you to see where/how you could be best utilized. Thank you!

Lamplighter Devotionals and Testimonies

We are asking for devotionals and testimonies from the congregation to be shared in a future Lamplighter. If you feel led to share, please submit yours to Christin at christin@richmondcumc.com

Garage Sale

We are having a GARAGE SALE April 29th! So bring items in and put them outside the office. We appreciate your support. If you have any question, please contact Shanron Rider or the church office.

Cuba Presentation

Join Pastor Joseph after worship today as he shares his experiences while in Cuba and how the Holy Spirit is working in wonderful ways. All are welcome!

Information Session

An information session will be held on Sunday, March 19th at 12:00 in the sanctuary. Russ Abel, our conference superintendent, will provide information for our congregation regarding disaffiliation from the UMC. There will be a light lunch provided in the Fellowship Hall between the end of Sunday worship and the beginning if the information session at 12:00. The Administrative Council will make a decision whether to proceed with a vote to disaffiliate at the March 23^rd meeting at 6:30 PM in Fellowship Hall. Please feel free to attend the meeting to address the Council with your preference regarding our congregation voting at this time. Please also feel free to reach out to any of the members of the Ad Council and communicate your preference if you would prefer to speak individually.

UMCOR RESPONSE TO EARTHQUAKES IN TURKEY AND SYRIA

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. The earthquake and aftershocks also impacted northwest Syria, where 4.1 million people depend on humanitarian assistance. Syrian communities, many of them women and children, are simultaneously facing an ongoing cholera outbreak and extreme winter weather, including heavy rain and snow. to give to UMCOR, please make a check out to Central United Methodist Church and put “Earthquakes” in the memo line. Or donate online here

Tribe 56

Mark your calendar:

Central Childcare Donations needed

Central Childcare is in need of some items. If you would like to donate, please leave your donations in the church office during our normal business hours. We are in need of; Tissues, Plastic tote boxes (all sizes), Baby wipes, Construction Paper, Various craft/sensory supplies (glue (white or clear), baking soda, corn starch, empty water bottles, Empty Formula or Coffee cans, Empty Paper towel or toilet paper rolls, etc…), Plastic spoons, Small Child size blankets, Books for young children (Infant-4 years), Sponges, Mr Clean Magic Erasers, and Dish Soap. If you would like to give a monetary donation, it will be used to provide snacks for our classrooms. If you have any questions, please contact our Childcare Director, Kathy George at 765-962-8543. Thank you!

Creative Hands

Creative Hands will meet February 23rd, 9am thru lunch. And yes, we will have a GARAGE SALE on April 29th – so bring items in and put them outside the office. We appreciate your support. No adult clothes please.

Shalom Sessions

Join us on the February 21st at 12:05pm in the Fellowship Hall for a brown bag lunch as we discuss “The multi-ethnic, multi-lingual, global and eternal body of Christ…the church beyond denominations.” Bring your lunch, your bibles, and a listening ear. May God break our hearts for what breaks his in this season.

Community Emergency Relief Room

Referrals to the Relief Room have been coming in rather frequently. Our supply of men’s shoes is getting small. Dress shoes are not needed but casual shoes, tennis shoes and shoe boots would be helpful. Kitchen items and small pieces of furniture are always in need. THANKS!

Ash Wednesday and Lent

Central is having an Ash Wednesday service at 6:00pm on February 22nd. Join us as we begin the Lenten Season with a time of remembering, repentance, and refocusing. If you are unable to attend, we will also be having a time of prayer and ashes in the sanctuary from Noon – 1:00pm.

Overnight Warming Station

An awesome group of community members have been working together to establish a temporary overnight warming station to assist with overflow from existing shelters. The goal is to provide a warm, safe place for those in need in extreme weather conditions. As the final planning is happening and facility is being secured, volunteers are needed to be available to help at the shelter. Please consider signing up to help meet this important need as colder weather is approaching. There are several different ways you can help. Once signed up, someone will connect with you to see where/how you could be best utilized. Thank you!

Mark your calendar:

The next United Women in Faith unit meeting will be held on Thursday, March 9 at 1:00 in Fellowship Hall. All are welcome!

Shalom Sessions

Join us on the February 21st at 12:05pm in the Fellowship Hall for a brown bag lunch as we discuss “The multi-ethnic, multi-lingual, global and eternal body of Christ…the church beyond denominations.” Bring your lunch, your bibles, and a listening ear. May God break our hearts for what breaks his in this season.

Endowment Committee

As we move forward enjoying all God has provided, we need to make sure we have our plans in place. Do we have a will that clearly states our desires? Do we have adequate insurance (automobile, homeowners, health and medical)? Are our investments in line with our current needs as well as future needs? With this being the time of year that IRA distributions are being made, you may want to consider a transfer to our church, which would save you taxable income. If you have any concerns, a member of the Endowment Committee would be willing to meet with you to discuss. We will look to have an after church meeting and discussion in April.

Community Emergency Relief Room

Referrals to the Relief Room have been coming in rather frequently. Our supply of men’s shoes is getting small. Dress shoes are not needed but casual shoes, tennis shoes and shoe boots would be helpful. Kitchen items and small pieces of furniture are always in need. THANKS!

Overnight Warming Station

An awesome group of community members have been working together to establish a temporary overnight warming station to assist with overflow from existing shelters. The goal is to provide a warm, safe place for those in need in extreme weather conditions. As the final planning is happening and facility is being secured, volunteers are needed to be available to help at the shelter. Please consider signing up to help meet this important need as colder weather is approaching. There are several different ways you can help. Once signed up, someone will connect with you to see where/how you could be best utilized. Thank you!

Lamplighter Devotionals and Testimonies

We are asking for devotionals and testimonies from the congregation to be shared in a future Lamplighter. If you feel led to share, please submit yours to Christin at christin@richmondcumc.com 

Community Food Pantry Sunday is this Sunday!

Central Childcare Donations needed

Central Childcare is in need of some items. If you would like to donate, please leave your donations in the church office during our normal business hours. We are in need of; Tissues, Plastic tote boxes (all sizes), Baby wipes, Construction Paper, Various craft/sensory supplies (glue (white or clear), baking soda, corn starch, empty water bottles, Empty Formula or Coffee cans, Empty Paper towel or toilet paper rolls, etc…), Plastic spoons, Small Child size blankets, Books for young children (Infant-4 years), Sponges, Mr Clean Magic Erasers, and Dish Soap. If you would like to give a monetary donation, it will be used to provide snacks for our classrooms. If you have any questions, please contact our Childcare Director, Kathy George at 765-962-8543. Thank you!

Read the Bible in 2023!

Here then I am, far from the busy ways of men. I sit down alone: only God is here. In His presence I open, I read His book; for this end, to find the way to heaven.” John Wesley knew and lived the Bible. The Methodist movement he started had Bible reading at its core. Let us build this up afresh in the New Year. Will you schedule now time to be with God and His Word every day in 2023? Central will be embarking on reading the Bible through with the ‘One Story that Leads to Jesus’ plan from the Bible Project. This plan can be picked up in the office, found online, or followed in the YouVersion Bible App. You can go over these readings in your small group or at our Fireside Conversations every Monday at 1:30. May the love of God’s word cause us to cry out with Mr. Wesley, “O give me that book! At any price, give me the book of God! I have it: here is knowledge enough for me. Let me be “homo unius libri.”

Creative Hands

Creative Hands will meet February 23rd, 9am thru lunch. And yes, we will have a GARAGE SALE on April 29th – so bring items in and put them outside the office. We appreciate your support. No adult clothes please.

Lamplighter Devotionals and Testimonies

We are asking for devotionals and testimonies from the congregation to be shared in a future Lamplighter. If you feel led to share, please submit yours to Christin at christin@richmondcumc.com 

UWF Meeting

Start your year off right by attending the first UWF unit meeting of 2023. United Women In Faith will gather on Thursday, Feb. 9, at 1:00 in the Fellowship Hall. Our speakers will be from three local nonprofits: Girls INC, Community In Schools, and the Boys and Girls Club. You do not have to be a member of UWF to attend this presentation. ALL women are welcome! Come find out how you can be a part of God’s work in our community.

Community Food Pantry Sunday is coming back!

Community Food Pantry Sunday is always the second Sunday of the month. The pantry needs our contributions of food and other necessities. We are currently in need of Non-perishable items, cereal, and instant mashed potatoes. Cash contributions may also be made using the envelopes in the pew racks. Simply mark them for “Food Pantry” and place in the offering plate.

Prayer Walks

Prayer connects us daily to a loving God moving in our midst. In his 3 rules for Methodists, John Wesley calls us to both private and public prayer. On the first Monday of every month at noon, we will have a prayer walk through our neighborhood. We will divide into small groups at the entrance of the church and proceed in different directions. Along the way, we will pause to pick up trash and renew our streets and sidewalks. Contact Pastor Joseph with questions.

Family Dinner Church

Calling all families of all kinds! Let’s get together… and eat, chat, laugh and worship our Mighty God. Join us on the 1st and 3rd Thursdays of the month at 6:00pm in the Fellowship Hall. Please bring your own food- but also- bring your family! We will have a short devotion and prayer and then the rest of the time to eat and chat. Your children will be listening and eating with you. For more information please contact Maryann Smith at 765-576-0375.

How to Read the Bible Sunday School

Ever find yourself wondering what you just read when you pick up the Bible? Are you beginning to suspect there might be more in the Bible than the Pastor shared? The Bible is the single greatest text ever written and the foundation of our faith. Join us on Sundays at 9am as we journey through a study on How to Read the Bible from January 15th – April 2nd. Whether this is your first or twentieth time reading the Bible, this Sunday School class has room for you. We will be meeting in the Fellowship Hall.

Central Childcare Donations needed

Read the Bible in 2023!

Here then I am, far from the busy ways of men. I sit down alone: only God is here. In His presence I open, I read His book; for this end, to find the way to heaven.” John Wesley knew and lived the Bible. The Methodist movement he started had Bible reading at its core. Let us build this up afresh in the New Year. Will you schedule now time to be with God and His Word every day in 2023? Central will be embarking on reading the Bible through with the ‘One Story that Leads to Jesus’ plan from the Bible Project. This plan can be picked up in the office, found online, or followed in the YouVersion Bible App. You can go over these readings in your small group or at our Fireside Conversations every Monday at 1:30. May the love of God’s word cause us to cry out with Mr. Wesley, “O give me that book! At any price, give me the book of God! I have it: here is knowledge enough for me. Let me be “homo unius libri.”

Creative Hands

Creative Hands will meet February 9th and 23rd, 9am thru lunch. And yes, we will have a GARAGE SALE this spring – so bring items in and put them outside the office. We appreciate your support. No adult clothes please.

Overnight Warming Station

An awesome group of community members have been working together to establish a temporary overnight warming station to assist with overflow from existing shelters. The goal is to provide a warm, safe place for those in need in extreme weather conditions. As the final planning is happening and facility is being secured, volunteers are needed to be available to help at the shelter. Please consider signing up to help meet this important need as colder weather is approaching. There are several different ways you can help. Once signed up, someone will connect with you to see where/how you could be best utilized. Thank you!

How to Read the Bible Sunday School

Ever find yourself wondering what you just read when you pick up the Bible? Are you beginning to suspect there might be more in the Bible than the Pastor shared? The Bible is the single greatest text ever written and the foundation of our faith. Join us on Sundays at 9am as we journey through a study on How to Read the Bible from January 15th – April 2nd. Whether this is your first or twentieth time reading the Bible, this Sunday School class has room for you. We will be meeting in the Fellowship Hall.

Read the Bible in 2023!

Here then I am, far from the busy ways of men. I sit down alone: only God is here. In His presence I open, I read His book; for this end, to find the way to heaven.” John Wesley knew and lived the Bible. The Methodist movement he started had Bible reading at its core. Let us build this up afresh in the New Year. Will you schedule now time to be with God and His Word every day in 2023? Central will be embarking on reading the Bible through with the ‘One Story that Leads to Jesus’ plan from the Bible Project. This plan can be picked up in the office, found online, or followed in the YouVersion Bible App. You can go over these readings in your small group or at our Fireside Conversations every Monday at 1:30. May the love of God’s word cause us to cry out with Mr. Wesley, “O give me that book! At any price, give me the book of God! I have it: here is knowledge enough for me. Let me be “homo unius libri.”

Creative Hands

Lamplighter Devotionals and Testimonies

We are asking for devotionals and testimonies from the congregation to be shared in a future Lamplighter. If you feel led to share, please submit yours to Christin at christin@richmondcumc.com 

UWF Meeting

Start your year off right by attending the first UWF unit meeting of 2023. United Women In Faith will gather on Thursday, Feb. 9, at 1:00 in the Fellowship Hall. Our speakers will be from three local nonprofits: Girls INC, Community In Schools, and the Boys and Girls Club. You do not have to be a member of UWF to attend this presentation. ALL women are welcome! Come find out how you can be a part of God’s work in our community.

Community Food Pantry Sunday is coming back!

Community Food Pantry Sunday is always the second Sunday of the month. The pantry needs our contributions of food and other necessities. We are currently in need of Non-perishable items, cereal, and instant mashed potatoes. Cash contributions may also be made using the envelopes in the pew racks. Simply mark them for “Food Pantry” and place in the offering plate.

Prayer Walks

Prayer connects us daily to a loving God moving in our midst. In his 3 rules for Methodists, John Wesley calls us to both private and public prayer. On the first Monday of every month at noon, we will have a prayer walk through our neighborhood. We will divide into small groups at the entrance of the church and proceed in different directions. Along the way, we will pause to pick up trash and renew our streets and sidewalks. Contact Pastor Joseph with questions.

Family Dinner Church

Calling all families of all kinds! Let’s get together… and eat, chat, laugh and worship our Mighty God. Join us on the 1st and 3rd Thursdays of the month at 6:00pm in the Fellowship Hall. Please bring your own food- but also- bring your family! We will have a short devotion and prayer and then the rest of the time to eat and chat. Your children will be listening and eating with you. For more information please contact Maryann Smith at 765-576-0375.

UWF Meeting

Start your year off right by attending the first UWF unit meeting of 2023. United Women In Faith will gather on Thursday, Feb. 9, at 1:00 in the Fellowship Hall. Our speakers will be from three local nonprofits: Girls INC, Community In Schools, and the Boys and Girls Club. You do not have to be a member of UWF to attend this presentation. ALL women are welcome! Come find out how you can be a part of God’s work in our community.

The Chosen Video Series

If you have been watching The Chosen video series, it is as inspirational and captivating as the first two seasons. It’s amazing how many people it is reaching and the lives that are being changed. For those who met with us on Sunday mornings, we will be showing Season 3 videos at our home during the week. Just videos and comfortable chairs! Day and time will be decided by those signing up. Please respond by calling Ned & BJ at 965-4658 or emailing us nedtoms@comcast.net by January 27th so we can get started by the end of this month or beginning of February. Others who didn’t attend before may join us if there is room. (Room for only 8.)

Financial Peace University

70% of Americans were living paycheck to paycheck – then the pandemic hit and inflation began to spiral. Financial Peace University offers timely wisdom, practical, and a fun way to learn about money. Each weekly session starts with teaching on video and is followed by a powerful small group discussion. You’ll see that you are DEFINITELY not alone if you’re struggling in this area. And even if you’re one of the few who isn’t struggling, you’ll still benefit from this powerful material. It teaches you how to apply biblical principles to the way you handle money and how to start truly managing all of the resources God has given you. This class breaks the process down into easy steps that will help no matter where you are. You’ve just got to take it! This class will be held on Sunday evenings from 5-6:30pm in the Fellowship Hall starting January 29th. The cost is $130 per household. Scholarships are available. If you want to get some more information for you or someone you love, just ask Ashley at ashley@richmondcumc.com. Can’t wait to see you all there!

Clarifying and Understanding
On January 22^nd the Ad Council invites you to gather again as we seek understanding together in the matters before the UMC. We will address the questions raised in and clarify comments shared from our information gathering session on November 13th.  We will lay out the possible paths ahead, reasons for choosing such paths, and the positions they represent.  Ample space will be given for questions and mutual understanding.  If you are a member of Central, please come and add your voice to the conversation while Central discerns the next right faithful steps.  This conversation will be in the Fellowship Hall following Worship Service.

How to Read the Bible Sunday School

Ever find yourself wondering what you just read when you pick up the Bible? Are you beginning to suspect there might be more in the Bible than the Pastor shared? The Bible is the single greatest text ever written and the foundation of our faith. Join us on Sundays at 9am as we journey through a study on How to Read the Bible from January 15th – April 2nd. Whether this is your first or twentieth time reading the Bible, this Sunday School class has room for you. We will be meeting in the Fellowship Hall.

Read the Bible in 2023!

Here then I am, far from the busy ways of men. I sit down alone: only God is here. In His presence I open, I read His book; for this end, to find the way to heaven.” John Wesley knew and lived the Bible. The Methodist movement he started had Bible reading at its core. Let us build this up afresh in the New Year. Will you schedule now time to be with God and His Word every day in 2023? Central will be embarking on reading the Bible through with the ‘One Story that Leads to Jesus’ plan from the Bible Project. This plan can be picked up in the office, found online, or followed in the YouVersion Bible App. You can go over these readings in your small group or at our Fireside Conversations every Monday at 1:30. May the love of God’s word cause us to cry out with Mr. Wesley, “O give me that book! At any price, give me the book of God! I have it: here is knowledge enough for me. Let me be “homo unius libri.”

Creative Hands

Creative Hands will meet February 9th and 23rd, 9am thru lunch. And yes, we will have a GARAGE SALE this spring – so bring items in and put them outside the office. We appreciate your support. No adult clothes please.

Central Hosting Point in Time Count

Lamplighter Devotionals and Testimonies

We are asking for devotionals and testimonies from the congregation to be shared in a future Lamplighter. If you feel led to share, please submit yours to Christin at christin@richmondcumc.com