
January 22nd Updates
Posted on Jan 22, 2021 in Newsletter, Uncategorized | 138
Virtual Coffee Hour
Let’s connect! Sundays at 11:30am (except communion/first Sundays)
Feel free to bring your coffee or lunch and invite your friends to join us on zoom for a short time for fellowship and a chance to get to know one another a bit better.
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86075240433?pwd=T2YvUk0vQlp4SCt3dk0rQlVFdmpDUT09
Meeting ID: 860 7524 0433
Passcode: 813984
One tap mobile +13126266799
Confirmation
Fireside Conversations
2021 brings not just a new year, but also a renewed opportunity to gather. Starting every Monday at 1:30 we will be gathering by the fireplace and on Zoom to share and discuss whatever may be on your heart or mind. Feel free to drop in here and there or attend weekly or invite someone new. There is no topic off limits as we conspire about what Jesus is about. For 2021, any remaining time in the hour will be focused on Practicing the Way of Jesus. We will go through every command ofJesus and wrestle with how we can obey them here and now. For more questions, contact Pastor Joseph (joseph@richmondcumc.com). Zoom meeting link – https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81236087134 meeting ID – 812 3608 7134
Real Discipleship Survey
The Real Discipleship Survey is an instrument designed to support the development of maturing disciples at both the personal and congregational levels. It measures the level of maturity in each of six dimensions of discipleship: Worship, Hospitality, Open to Jesus, Obeying Jesus, Service, and Generosity. The Indiana Conference has purchased a conference-wide license which makes the survey free for all INUMC churches and congregants! You can find the links to the Real Discipleship Survey and the Instructions on our website at richmondcumc.com/exploring/
Financial Peace University
Garage Sale Update
Many of you have asked if we will be having a garage sale this year. Plans are still in the works. While we appreciate your contributions, please hold on to your items until further notice.
Creative Hands
Creative hands will meet again starting February 11th at 9am. See you there!
Prayer Partners
It is time to revive our Prayer Partner program. This has been a longstanding tradition at Central and many have been able to experience the connection between generations. Now, more than ever, is a great time to get this program active again. This is a wonderful way to get to know our church body. We may not be able to connect face to face right now, but we can always meet face to face with Christ and pray for one another. If you are interested in being a prayer partner, please email sheri@richmondcumc.com with your name, phone, and address. She will connect you with a child or teen that will be your partner for the year. We ask that you pray for each other, send a written note from time to time, and recognize special days with a card.
Coronavirus Vaccine Conversation
On Monday January 25th medical professionals from Central will share their latest insight and answer questions on the coronavirus, the vaccine, and what the latest models are for the days ahead. This meeting will be on Zoom from 6:30 – 7:30 pm.
Join Zoom Meeting: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83713945531
Meeting ID: 837 1394 5531
One tap mobile: +1 312 626 6799
UMW Meeting
Women of the church, UMW will have our monthly unit meeting on Thursday, Feb. 11, in a socially distanced Fellowship Hall. Creative Hands (all are welcome to join us) will meet form 9:00- 12:00. Lunch will be served at noon. Reservations needed. Please contact Ann Cashner or Shanron Rider. Our UMW meeting will follow at 1:00, with a short business meeting and a guest speaker. LOVE will be our theme. February Mission Offering: If you are able, please bring a package of new children’s underwear or socks, or a small monetary donation. Please join us!
Wisdom Study – Study of Job
2020 has been a year unlike any other. Job offers wisdom unlike any other. Join us Wednesday mornings from 9-10 starting January 13th as we resume our study of Wisdom in the Bible. Pastor Joseph will guide the conversation as we walk through the book of Job with readings, reflections, and applications during our hour together so that you are free to apply the wisdom gleaned throughout the week. We will be meeting in the Fellowship Hall and on Zoom – https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88545160130 Meeting ID: 885 4516 0130 or call: +1 312 626 6799
Musical Reminders/Announcements:
• Tuesdays at 10:00am: Experience a time of weekly worship and virtual fellowship from Madeleine’s home in Brookville, Ohio! We pray, read Scripture, sing hymns, and hear meditative piano music. Streams live from Central’s Facebook page.
• Wednesdays at 12:15pm: Weekly Musical Meditations from Central’s beautiful sanctuary. Reflective music played on pipe organ or piano. Streams live from Central’s Facebook page!
Read more...
January 15th Update
Posted on Jan 14, 2021 in Newsletter, Uncategorized | 139
Alpha
Alpha is a time where you can explore life’s biggest questions in an intimate, relational atmosphere. It features a series of sessions exploring the Christian faith, run over eleven weeks. Each session features a talk exploring different questions around faith, and a time for small group discussion.
During the conversation, you’ll have the chance to share thoughts and ideas on the topic and hear from others. There’s no obligation to say anything. And there’s nothing you can’t say. It’s an opportunity to hear from others and contribute your own perspective in an honest, friendly and open environment.
Alpha has been run all around the globe and is designed to be a place where everyone is welcome. You don’t have to come with all the questions because it is really about exploring. The adventurer and TV personality, Bear Grylls said, “Alpha was the best thing I ever did. It helped answer some huge questions and to find a simple empowering faith in my life.”
- Dates: January 12 – March 30 (11 weeks)
- Meeting Time – Tuesday nights @ 7:30pm-9:00pm
- Meeting Location – Zoom
- Cost – $0
- Leader: Joseph Seger
Fireside Conversations
2021 brings not just a new year, but also a renewed opportunity to gather. Starting every Monday at 1:30 we will be gathering by the fireplace and on Zoom to share and discuss whatever may be on your heart or mind. Feel free to drop in here and there or attend weekly or invite someone new. There is no topic off limits as we conspire about what Jesus is about. For 2021, any remaining time in the hour will be focused on Practicing the Way of Jesus. We will go through every command of Jesus and wrestle with how we can obey them here and now. For more questions, contact Pastor Joseph
(joseph@richmondcumc.com). Zoom meeting link –
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81236087134
meeting ID – 812 3608 7134
Wisdom Study – Study of Job
2020 has been a year unlike any other. Job offers wisdom unlike any other. Join us Wednesday mornings from 9-10 starting January 13th as we resume our study of Wisdom in the Bible. Pastor Joseph will guide the conversation as we walk through the book of Job with readings, reflections, and applications during our hour together so that you are free to apply the wisdom gleaned throughout the week. We will be meeting in the Fellowship Hall and on Zoom –
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88545160130
Meeting ID: 885 4516 0130
+1 312 626 6799
Musical Reminders/Announcements:
- Tuesdays at 10:00am: Experience a time of weekly worship and virtual fellowship from Madeleine’s home in Brookville, Ohio! We pray, read Scripture, sing hymns, and hear meditative piano music. Streams live from Central’s Facebook page.
- Wednesdays at 12:15pm: Weekly Musical Meditations from Central’s beautiful sanctuary. Reflective music played on pipe organ or piano. Streams live from Central’s Facebook page!
Martin Luther King Jr Day Service
Sunday, January 17th, we will be offering a community service to celebrate the life, legacy, and faith of Martin Luther King Jr. This service will be streamed through Facebook at 4 pm.
Prayer Partners
It is time to revive our Prayer Partner program. This has been a longstanding tradition at Central and many have been able to experience the connection between generations. Now, more than ever, is a great time to get this program active again. This is a wonderful way to get to know our church body. We may not be able to connect face to face right now, but we can always meet face to face with Christ and pray for one another. If you are interested in being a prayer partner, please email sheri@richmondcumc.com with your name, phone, and address. She will connect you with a child or teen that will be your partner for the year. We ask that you pray for each other, send a written note from time to time, and recognize special days with a card.
Central Childcare is Hiring!
Ministry to Homeless
On January 27th we will be hosting a meal for the homeless from 12-3 to aid in the Continuum of Care count for our region. If you are interested in serving, please contact the office. If you are interested in counting, please contact joseph@richmondcumc.com. And all of us, please pray. If you would like to give towards the amenities to be handed out to the homeless, please donate money or drop off the following in the office by January 19th – (soap, shampoo, lotion, toothbrushes, toothpaste, combs, and disposable razors), soft cereal bars, bottled water, rain ponchos, beanies, gloves, batteries, socks, white tshirts, can opener, blankets, etc.
Let’s connect! Sundays at 11:30am (except communion/first Sundays)
Feel free to bring your coffee or lunch and invite your friends to join us on zoom for a short time for fellowship and a chance to get to know one another a bit better.
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86075240433?pwd=T2YvUk0vQlp4SCt3dk0rQlVFdmpDUT09
Meeting ID: 860 7524 0433
Passcode: 813984
One tap mobile +13126266799
Financial Peace University
We will again be offering Dave Ramsey’s Financial Peace University class here at the church starting in February. It’s the most practical stuff out there and the most fun you’ll ever have learning about money. You are invited and feel free to invite a couple to join you in the journey. Stay tuned for more information.
Confirmation
We are excited to be offering confirmation here in 2021. Confirmation is a journey in which 7-12 graders have an opportunity to work through the tenets, history, and practicality of the Christian faith and Methodist way. Space is offered for far ranging questions and conversation. If you are a 7-12 grader, or a parent of a 7-12 grader, and are interested in joining this journey, please come to our informational meeting January 24th at 11:30 in Fellowship Hall. Contact Sheri Koyles for more information
Coronavirus Vaccine Conversation
On Monday January 25th medical professionals from Central will share their latest insight and answer questions on the coronavirus, the vaccine, and what the latest models are for the days ahead. This meeting will be on Zoom from 6:30 – 7:30 pm. The link will be posted next week.
Read more...
January 8th Updates
Posted on Jan 8, 2021 in Newsletter, Uncategorized | 137
Fireside Conversations
2021 brings not just a new year, but also a renewed opportunity to gather. Every Monday at 1:30pm we will be gathering by the fireplace and on Zoom to share and discuss whatever may be on your heart or mind. Feel free to drop in here and there or attend weekly or invite someone new. There is no topic off limits as we conspire about what Jesus is about. For 2021, any remaining time in the hour will be focused on Practicing the Way of Jesus. We will go through every command of Jesus and wrestle with how we can obey them here and now. For more questions, contact Pastor Joseph (joseph@richmondcumc.com). Zoom meeting link – https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81236087134, meeting ID – 812 3608 7134
Central Childcare is Hiring!
If you or someone you know is interested in working in our childcare, please contact Pastor Jen at jennifer@richmondcumc.com or call the office at 765-962-8543.
Study of Job
2020 has been a year unlike any other. Job offers wisdom unlike any other. Join us Wednesday mornings from 9-10 starting January 13th as we resume our study of Wisdom in the Bible. Pastor Joseph will guide the conversation as we walk through the book of Job with readings, reflections, and applications during our hour together so that you are free to apply the wisdom gleaned throughout the week. We will be meeting in the Fellowship Hall and on Zoom –
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88545160130
Meeting ID: 885 4516 0130
+1 312 626 6799
Alpha
Alpha is a time where you can explore life’s biggest questions in an intimate, relational atmosphere. It features a series of sessions exploring the Christian faith, run over eleven weeks. Each session features a talk exploring different questions around faith, and a time for small group discussion.
During the conversation, you’ll have the chance to share thoughts and ideas on the topic and hear from others. There’s no obligation to say anything. And there’s nothing you can’t say. It’s an opportunity to hear from others and contribute your own perspective in an honest, friendly and open environment.
Alpha has been run all around the globe and is designed to be a place where everyone is welcome. You don’t have to come with all the questions because it is really about exploring. The adventurer and TV personality, Bear Grylls said, “Alpha was the best thing I ever did. It helped answer some huge questions and to find a simple empowering faith in my life.”
January 12th – March 30th (11 weeks)
Tuesday Nights @ 7:30pm-9:00pm
Meeting on Zoom
Cost – $0
Leader: Joseph Seger
Martin Luther King Jr Day
On January 17th, we will be offering a community service to celebrate the life, legacy, and faith of Martin Luther King Jr. This service will be streamed through Facebook at 4 pm.
Funeral Service for Mae Monroe
Funeral Service for Mae Monroe will be held privately this Saturday at 1:30. You are welcome to view the service online through our Facebook page. You may view her obituary here.
Read more...
Decebmer 30th Updates
Posted on Dec 30, 2020 in Newsletter, Uncategorized | 137
Fireside Conversations
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. Please contact Pastor Joseph with any questions.
Natural Disaster Relief
You may have just seen pictures from Hurricanes Eta and Iota. Did you see those from Typhoons Gone and Vamco? Across the world, natural disasters are devastating communities. The United Methodist Committee on Relief or UMCOR is one of the best long term recovery agencies in the world. If your heart breaks over these natural disasters or other worldwide areas of concern, please keep them in your prayers and if you are able, give through these avenues.

• Tuesdays at 10:00AM: Experience a time of weekly worship and virtual fellowship from Madeleine’s home in Brookville, Ohio! We pray, read Scripture, sing hymns, and hear meditative piano music. Streams live from Central’s Facebook page.
• Wednesdays at 12:15pm: Weekly Musical Meditations from Central’s beautiful sanctuary. Reflective music played on pipe organ or piano. Streams live from Central’s Facebook page!
Tech Help in Fellowship Hall
Thank you to all who came during our last session for some tech help! The next sessions are planned for Jan 6th at 3:00pm. If you would like to come to a session, send an email with a description of your problem/question so I can look it over: TechHelpCUMC@gmail.com
Central Childcare is Hiring!
If you or someone you know is interested in working in our childcare, please contact Pastor Jen at jennifer@richmondcumc.com or call the office at 765-962-8543.
Study of Job
2020 has been a year unlike any other. Job offers wisdom unlike any other. Join us Wednesday mornings from 9-10 starting January 13th as we resume our study of Wisdom in the Bible. Pastor Joseph will guide the conversation as we walk through the book of Job with readings, reflections, and applications during our hour together so that you are free to apply the wisdom gleaned throughout the week. We will be meeting in the Fellowship Hall and on Zoom –
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88545160130
Meeting ID: 885 4516 0130
+1 312 626 6799
Alpha
Alpha is a time where you can explore life’s biggest questions in an intimate, relational atmosphere. It features a series of sessions exploring the Christian faith, run over eleven weeks. Each session features a talk exploring different questions around faith, and a time for small group discussion.
During the conversation, you’ll have the chance to share thoughts and ideas on the topic and hear from others. There’s no obligation to say anything. And there’s nothing you can’t say. It’s an opportunity to hear from others and contribute your own perspective in an honest, friendly and open environment.
January 12th – March 30th (11 weeks)
Tuesday Nights @ 7:30pm-9:00pm
Meeting on Zoom
Cost – $0
Leader: Joseph Seger
Read more...
December 24th Updates
Posted on Dec 24, 2020 in Newsletter, Uncategorized | 124
Zoom Gathering after Sunday Service
As more and more of us are joining worship from our homes, we wanted to offer a space for us to see one another and hear from one another. For every Sunday in Advent, we will be meeting on Zoom immediately following the service. This will include time to just say hi and chat, a few questions for conversation, and some breakout rooms for deeper conversation with a smaller group. I look forward to seeing you after services on Sunday:
Topic: After church zoom Time: Dec 27, 2020 11:30 AM
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82217647405
Meeting ID: 822 1764 7405

Holiday Office Hours
Central’s Office will be closed on the following dates to allow staff to spend time with their families
Friday December 25th
Monday December 28th
Thursday December 31st
Fireside Conversations
2021 brings not just a new year, but also a renewed opportunity to gather. Starting every Monday at 1:30 we will be gathering by the fireplace and on Zoom to share and discuss whatever may be on your heart or mind. Feel free to drop in here and there or attend weekly or invite someone new. There is no topic off limits as we conspire about what Jesus is about. For 2021, any remaining time in the hour will be focused on Practicing the Way of Jesus. We will go through every command of Jesus and wrestle with how we can obey them here and now. For more questions, contact Pastor Joseph (joseph@richmondcumc.com). Zoom meeting link – https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81236087134, meeting ID – 812 3608 7134
Natural Disaster Relief
You may have just seen pictures from Hurricanes Eta and Iota. Did you see those from Typhoons Gone and Vamco? Across the world, natural disasters are devastating communities. The United Methodist Committee on Relief or UMCOR is one of the best long term recovery agencies in the world. If your heart breaks over these natural disasters or other worldwide areas of concern, please keep them in your prayers and if you are able, give through these avenues.
Tech Help in Fellowship Hall
Thank you to all who came during our last session for some tech help! The next sessions are planned for Jan 6th at 3:00pm. If you would like to come to a session, send an email with a description of your problem/question so I can look it over: TechHelpCUMC@gmail.com
Central Childcare is Hiring!
Community Food Pantry
Meijer has selected our pantry to participate in their Holiday SIMPLY GIVE campaign from now until January 2, 2021. While shopping at Meijer you can pick up a $10 Simply Give card and all that money will come to our pantry. The little tag says $10 but you can pay any amount. Thank you for your prayers and support for our pantry.
Study of Job
2020 has been a year unlike any other. Job offers wisdom unlike any other. Join us Wednesday mornings from 9-10 starting January 13th as we resume our study of Wisdom in the Bible. Pastor Joseph will guide the conversation as we walk through the book of Job with readings, reflections, and applications during our hour together so that you are free to apply the wisdom gleaned throughout the week. We will be meeting in the Fellowship Hall and on Zoom –
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88545160130
Meeting ID: 885 4516 0130
+1 312 626 6799
2021 Pledge Cards

Read more...
December 18th Updates
Posted on Dec 17, 2020 in Newsletter, Uncategorized | 171
Longest Night Service
We will have two opportunities to gather for the Longest Night. During the 5-6pm hour on Dec. 21st you are welcome to come to the church sanctuary at any time to spend time in prayer. Pastors will also be available to pray with you. At 7pm, we will gather on zoom (info below) for the service. You can access the service via phone call or internet. The service will not be on Facebook. Please let Pastor Jen know if you have any questions. You may also request a recording of the service if you are unable to attend at that time.
For many, Christmas can feel more like a season of great darkness and shadows. We may be experiencing loneliness, grief, loss, separation, pain, and/or sickness, especially this year. One of the ways in which we can survive the holiday season is to claim and acknowledge our feelings, both the good and the bad. It has been a practice the past few years to create a space where people can be themselves and bring their sadness to the Lord. The Longest Night Service (sometimes referenced as Blue Christmas) will offer us a way to claim those feelings and still feel surrounded by the compassionate love of God. If you are searching for a place to just be, for a place to experience God’s love, and for a place to feel a glimmer of hope and peace, join us.
Topic: Central UMC Longest Night Service
Time: Dec 21, 2020 07:00 PM America/Indiana/Indianapolis
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89939217988?pwd=NUJ3ZG5Od2xNM0pwOWlVNndzbUNPdz09

On December 24th, we will be having our Christmas Eve Family Service virtually @ 4:30 pm on our Facebook Page. Our Candlelight service will be offered both virtually on Facebook and in –person (REGISTER HERE) @ 8:00 pm. You are welcome to tune into both. We still encourage those who can comfortably watch online to please do so. For those who do not have candles at home, we will have candles available for pick up starting this Sunday. If you would like a candle delivered, please contact the church office. Though there will not be room for us all in the sanctuary, may our lights shine brightly throughout Richmond and beyond this Christmas Eve!

As more and more of us are joining worship from our homes, we wanted to offer a space for us to see one another and hear from one another. For every Sunday in Advent, we will be meeting on Zoom immediately following the service. This will include time to just say hi and chat, a few questions for conversation, and some breakout rooms for deeper conversation with a smaller group. I look forward to seeing you after services on Sunday:
Topic: After church zoom Time: Dec 20, 2020 11:30 AM
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89617975743?pwd=TFZ5MFFNQkpEVUdZQ2JMUU8yTnRlZz09
Meeting ID: 896 1797 5743
Passcode: 239119
Dial by your location
1 312 626 6799 US
Natural Disaster Relief
You may have just seen pictures from Hurricanes Eta and Iota. Did you see those from Typhoons Gone and Vamco? Across the world, natural disasters are devastating communities. The United Methodist Committee on Relief or UMCOR is one of the best long term recovery agencies in the world. If your heart breaks over these natural disasters or other worldwide areas of concern, please keep them in your prayers and if you are able, give through these avenues.
Tech Help in Fellowship Hall
Thank you to all who came during our last session for some tech help! The next sessions are planned for Dec. 23rd, and Jan 6th at 3:00pm. If you would like to come to a session, send an email with a description of your problem/question so I can look it over: TechHelpCUMC@gmail.com
Central Childcare is Hiring!
If you or someone you know is interested in working in our childcare, please contact Pastor Jen at jennifer@richmondcumc.com or call the office at 765-962-8543. This is a great opportunity for college students on Christmas break!
Community Food Pantry
Meijer has selected our pantry to participate in their Holiday SIMPLY GIVE campaign from now until January 2, 2021. While shopping at Meijer you can pick up a $10 Simply Give card and all that money will come to our pantry. The little tag says $10 but you can pay any amount. Thank you for your prayers and support for our pantry.
Boys & Girls Club Christmas Shop 2020
The Boys & Girls Club Christmas Shop of 2020 was re-styled in Covid 19 fashion. We were able to set up, guide the children through the shop and send them home with boxed and wrapped gifts while maintaining social distancing. In fact, the process went so smoothly we are planning to streamline the operation in a similar manner in the future. We appreciate all the donations that are given to us throughout the year by church families. Thank you to the members of Central who voluntarily gave their time to set up and oranize the gifts: Pat Heiny, Dana Mollenkopf, Alisa Clapp-Itnyre and Sara Wright. A special thank you to the committee of 7 women who worked the entire 9 days. They included Ann Herrman and 6 members of Central United Methodist: Cindy Hayworth, Sharon Enright, Aileen Githens, Nettie Cates, Susie Auman, and Carla Stidham. Well doine ladies!
Vaile Gift Cards
Thank you for contributing towards giving gift cards to Vaile Elementary. We were able to give them $175 worth! You generosity is much appreciated.
Holiday Office Hours
Central’s Office will be closed on the following dates to allow staff to spend time with their families
Friday December 25th
Monday December 28th
Thursday December 31st

Read more...
December 11th Updates
Posted on Dec 11, 2020 in Newsletter, Uncategorized | 168

With so much dividing us in our world today, the church can and should offer a third way of uniting us in following the way of Jesus…publicly. Join us on the 3rd Tuesdays of the month at 12:05 in the Fellowship Hall for a brown bag lunch as we discuss and listen to the matters and efforts breaking and making the Shalom of our community. This Tuesday the 15th, we will be discussing poverty, homelessness, and our church’s benevolent response to this complex reality.

On December 24th, we will be having our Christmas Eve Family Service virtually @ 4:30 pm on our Facebook Page. Our Candlelight service will be offered both virtually on Facebook and in –person (REGISTER HERE) @ 8:00 pm. You are welcome to tune into both. We still encourage those who can comfortably watch online to please do so. For those who do not have candles at home, we will have candles available for pick up starting this Sunday. If you would like a candle delivered, please contact the church office. Though there will not be room for us all in the sanctuary, may our lights shine brightly throughout Richmond and beyond this Christmas Eve!
Longest Night Service
We will have two opportunities to gather for the Longest Night. During the 5-6pm hour on Dec. 21st you are welcome to come to the church sanctuary at any time to spend time in prayer. Pastors will also be available to pray with you. At 7pm, we will gather on zoom (info below) for the service. You can access the service via phone call or internet. The service will not be on Facebook. Please let Pastor Jen know if you have any questions. You may also request a recording of the service if you are unable to attend at that time.
Topic: Central UMC Longest Night Service
Time: Dec 21, 2020 07:00 PM America/Indiana/Indianapolis
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89939217988?pwd=NUJ3ZG5Od2xNM0pwOWlVNndzbUNPdz09
Zoom Gathering after Sunday Service
As more and more of us are joining worship from our homes, we wanted to offer a space for us to see one another and hear from one another. For every Sunday in Advent, we will be meeting on Zoom immediately following the service. This will include time to just say hi and chat, a few questions for conversation, and some breakout rooms for deeper conversation with a smaller group. I look forward to seeing you after services on Sunday:
Topic: After church zoom Time: Dec 20, 2020 11:30 AM
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89617975743?pwd=TFZ5MFFNQkpEVUdZQ2JMUU8yTnRlZz09
Meeting ID: 896 1797 5743
Passcode: 239119
Dial by your location
1 312 626 6799 US
Let Us Go Now to Bethlehem:
Tuesdays, through Dec. 22nd You are invited to join Pastor Jen as she participates in this offering from Conference leadership and author Rev. Todd Outcalt for a Tuesday afternoon focus on joy and the miracle of Christ’s birth through Let Us Go Now to Bethlehem: Daily Devotions for Advent and Christmas. With leadership provided by Bishop Trimble alongside pastors Oscar Ramos-Gallardo, Marcy Patrick, and Pete Ward, we’ll gather for a devotional focus designed to bring you rest and encouragement in the midst of this season. Meetings will be held Tuesdays, December 1-22 at 1:00 p.m. (ET). For the Zoom link and to register, contact Luska.Natali@inumc.org. If you have any questions, contact Pastor Jen for more information and let her know if you’ll be on the call with her!
Natural Disaster Relief
You may have just seen pictures from Hurricanes Eta and Iota. Did you see those from Typhoons Gone and Vamco? Across the world, natural disasters are devastating communities. The United Methodist Committee on Relief or UMCOR is one of the best long term recovery agencies in the world. If your heart breaks over these natural disasters or other worldwide areas of concern, please keep them in your prayers and if you are able, give through these avenues.

A big thank you to all the people who donated bottles of spices for the Indiana Women’s Prison Christmas bags. A HUGE thank you to Jeff Logue, who donated $500 toward this project, and to Losantville UMC and Hagerstown UMC, who also donated spices. I am excited to be able to deliver 725 bottles of spices to the prison this coming week. The women will be THRILLED! May God bless you for giving, Ann Cashner, VICTORY Prison Ministry Genesis Board Member!
The Genesis Board would like to thank everyone who donated to this year’s Wayne County Foundation Matching Fund for Genesis. Genesis raised $35,000 through donations during the match week, then received the $5,000 match from the Foundation. Thank you to the members of Central for supporting Genesis over the years and for always being so very generous.
Advent Virtual Hymn Study
Tuesdays in December at 2:30, thru 12/22
Thank you to all who came during our last session for some tech help! The next sessions are planned for Dec. 23rd, and Jan 6th at 3:00pm. If you would like to come to a session, send an email with a description of your problem/question so I can look it over: TechHelpCUMC@gmail.com
December School Support
Vaile Elementary: We are collecting Meijer gift cards so that the school may purchase supplies for their upcoming parties, which include sugar cookies, icing, and sprinkles for 17 classrooms. Please turn in the gift cards by Monday, Dec. 14th. Contact Pastor Jen if you have questions.
Central Childcare is Hiring!
If you or someone you know is interested in working in our childcare, please contact Pastor Jen at jennifer@richmondcumc.com or call the office at 765-962-8543. This is a great opportunity for college students on Christmas break!
Community Food Pantry

Read more...
December 4th Updates
Posted on Dec 3, 2020 in Newsletter, Uncategorized | 171

Sierra Leone Christmas Children’s Feeding Program
Our custodian, Pastor Paul Samura provides us with an opportunity to support our brothers and sisters in Sierra Leone through an annual feeding event for local churches within the Wesleyan Church of Sierra Leone. All Wesleyan Churches in Sierra Leone have functional auxiliaries – Men, Women, Young adults, Youths, Junior Youth Challenge, and Good News Club. Each year, Pastor Paul and other US based pastors and students select 2-3 Good News Clubs each to support the feeding program which involves providing food, a Christmas party and gifts for children. UMW and Missions will provide monetary support and wanted to invite the congregation to come alongside them. Please mark your gifts for the Sierra Leone Pastor’s Fund so that we may distribute this gift to support 3 Good News Clubs and the children that are a part of them. You may contribute until Sunday, December 6th. Between all of us, we hope to collect $600. Thank you for your support!
Longest Night Service
We are in the middle of a season of great joy and light. When we look at one another, many of us expect to see a smile on another person’s face and a twinkle in their eye. However, for many, Christmas can feel more like a season of great darkness and shadows. We may be experiencing loneliness, grief, loss, separation, pain, and/or sickness, especially this year. With so much joy surrounding us and long, lonely nights, we can feel lost in the hustle and bustle. One of the ways in which we can survive the holiday season is to claim and acknowledge our feelings, both the good and the bad. The longest and for many most difficult night of the year is December 21st. It has been a practice the past few years to create a space where people can be themselves and bring their sadness to the Lord. The Longest Night Service (sometimes referenced as Blue Christmas) will offer us a way to claim those feelings and still feel surrounded by the compassionate love of God. If you are searching for a place to just be, for a place to experience God’s love, and for a place to feel a glimmer of hope and peace, join us on Thursday, December 21st at 6pm for this contemplative service. We will keep you posted on if the service will be offered in person or not, but our hope is to be able to gather. We will also livestream the service on Facebook.
Zoom Gathering after Sunday Service
As more and more of us are joining worship from our homes, we wanted to offer a space for us to see one another and hear from one another. For every Sunday in Advent, we will be meeting on Zoom immediately following the service. This will include time to just say hi and chat, a few questions for conversation, and some breakout rooms for deeper conversation with a smaller group. I look forward to seeing you after services on Sunday:
Topic: Advent After-Party – Central Sunday Gathering
Sunday mornings after service
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82217647405
Meeting ID: 822 1764 7405
Dial by your location – 1 312 626 6799
Let Us Go Now to Bethlehem:
Tuesdays, through Dec. 22nd You are invited to join Pastor Jen as she participates in this offering from Conference leadership and author Rev. Todd Outcalt for a Tuesday afternoon focus on joy and the miracle of Christ’s birth through Let Us Go Now to Bethlehem: Daily Devotions for Advent and Christmas. With leadership provided by Bishop Trimble alongside pastors Oscar Ramos-Gallardo, Marcy Patrick, and Pete Ward, we’ll gather for a devotional focus designed to bring you rest and encouragement in the midst of this season. Meetings will be held Tuesdays, December 1-22 at 1:00 p.m. (ET). For the Zoom link and to register, contact Luska.Natali@inumc.org. If you have any questions, contact Pastor Jen for more information and let her know if you’ll be on the call with her!
Creative Hands
Creative Hands would like to thank everyone for their continued support of our projects benefiting local charities. We will not meet in the month of December so that we can mask up, stay safe, and enjoy the holiday season.
The Tuesday Group
The small group, “THE TUESDAY GROUP” invites you to join us, starting on Tuesday, December 1, for a 4-week Advent study. We meet at 6:30pm via Google “Hangouts”. Please email Jim Puckett if you’d like to join us. jpuckie@yahoo.com
~The Christmas story, or Advent, is more than a sentimental myth or a quiet manger scene we use to decorate our living rooms. The Christmas story is the good news of God entering into our darkness. Join J.D. Greear in this four-session series as he takes a deeper look at Jesus as Emmanuel, our Wonderful Counselor, the Everlasting Father, and the great I Am. When you know Jesus, you will realize Christmas is more than a nice story—the arrival of Jesus changes everything.
Natural Disaster Relief
You may have just seen pictures from Hurricanes Eta and Iota. Did you see those from Typhoons Gone and Vamco? Across the world, natural disasters are devastating communities. The United Methodist Committee on Relief or UMCOR is one of the best long term recovery agencies in the world. If your heart breaks over these natural disasters or other worldwide areas of concern, please keep them in your prayers and if you are able, give through these avenues.
2021 Altar Flowers
If you would like to place an order for Sunday altar flowers in 2021, please call the office at 765-962-8543 or email Christin at christin@richmondcumc.com. Each order costs $25 and is billed through Jack Daggy Flowers. There are plenty of open dates in 2021!
Sounds of the Season

It’s time again to donate spices for the Indiana Women’s Prison Christmas bags. It’s been a hard year, so they will be delighted to receive a bottle of spice to use for cooking in their dorms. NO GLASS bottles, please. SUGGESTED SPICES: garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, Italian seasoning, cinnamon, oregano, cayenne, pumpkin pie spice, Taco seasoning. Give your spice donations to Ann Cashner or bring to the church office. NO parsley, NO paprika, NO bay leaves. NO GLASS!
The new 2021 UMW Program Book will be coming out in January. You may pick up your copy at church following the service or we will mail it to you. There will be no UMW
meeting in January. The 2021 UMW “asking” is $15.00.
Advent Virtual Hymn Study
Tuesdays in December at 2:30, thru 12/22
Thank you to all who came during our last session for some tech help! The next sessions are planned for Dec. 9th, Dec. 23rd, and Jan 6th at 3:00pm. If you would like to come to a session, send an email with a description of your problem/question so I can look it over: TechHelpCUMC@gmail.com
December School Support
Vaile Elementary: We will be partnering with Principal Stevenson this December. She shared with us that the Fall Family Festival Kits were a huge hit. She also wrote, “They loved them. Thank you so much again!” Due to Covid, they likely won’t get to do their Breakfast with Santa again this year, so we are partnering together in different ways, especially through donations for their Good Behavior Party. More information will be forthcoming so stay tuned for our Friday announcements, Sunday bulletins, and Facebook posts!
Starr Elementary: Kathy Khamis is the Community in Schools Starr Site Coordinator. She believes that Christmas meals and family gift support will be important in December. If you would be interested to offer support for students and families in these ways, please contact Kathy directly or the church office so we can help you connect with her. She appreciates the many ways that this congregation offers support and loves the students, families, and community!
Central Childcare is Hiring!
If you or someone you know is interested in working in our childcare, please contact Pastor Jen at jennifer@richmondcumc.com or call the office at 765-962-8543. This is a great opportunity for college students on Christmas break!
The Laundry Project
Even with fewer people in and out of the church we still collected $150 in quarters. The Trustee’s Laundry Project was very grateful – they have used their allotment and have more people every time they hold a laundry day. Keep saving quarters, we’ll do it again after the first of the year. Thank you!! Thank you!! – The Intermediate Sunday school class
Community Food Pantry
Meijer has selected our pantry to participate in their Holiday SIMPLY GIVE campaign from now until January 2, 2021. While shopping at Meijer you can pick up a $10 Simply Give card and all that money will come to our pantry. Additionally Saturday December 12 will be a DOUBLE MATCH DAY — the Meijer Corporation will double match (your $10 gift will become $30). AND, you are not limited to $10! The little tag says $10 but you can pay any amount. Thank you for your prayers and support for our pantry.
It’s a Wonderful Life – Richmond Civic Theatre.

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November 25th Updates
Posted on Nov 25, 2020 in Newsletter, Uncategorized | 168
Central United Methodist Church will once again be hosting a Red Cross blood drive. It is scheduled for 11:00 am to 3:00 pm on December 17th. As always, the need for blood donations is high. A new aspect of the blood draw is that you will be provided with information on how to check back with the Red Cross to see if they have determined if Covid antibodies are in your system. During the draw, a number of precautions will be in placed in consideration of Covid-19 restrictions. To register for the blood drive, go to redcrossblood.org and enter the code CUMCRICH. There you will be able to select a time for either a blood draw or a PowerRed draw. Hoping to see the time slots fill up quickly. Thanks.
Sierra Leone Christmas Children’s Feeding Program
Our custodian, Pastor Paul Samura provides us with an opportunity to support our brothers and sisters in Sierra Leone through an annual feeding event for local churches within the Wesleyan Church of Sierra Leone. All Wesleyan Churches in Sierra Leone have functional auxiliaries – Men, Women, Young adults, Youths, Junior Youth Challenge, and Good News Club. Each year, Pastor Paul and other US based pastors and students select 2-3 Good News Clubs each to support the feeding program which involves providing food, a Christmas party and gifts for children.
UMW and Missions will provide monetary support and wanted to invite the congregation to come alongside them. Please mark your gifts for the Sierra Leone Pastor’s Fund so that we may distribute this gift to support 3 Good News Clubs and the children that are a part of them. You may contribute until Sunday, December 6th. Between all of us, we hope to collect $600. Thank you for your support!
Zoom Gathering after Sunday Service

Tuesdays, Dec. 1st – 22nd You are invited to join Pastor Jen as she participates in this offering from Conference leadership and author Rev. Todd Outcalt for a Tuesday afternoon focus on joy and the miracle of Christ’s birth through Let Us Go Now to Bethlehem: Daily Devotions for Advent and Christmas. With leadership provided by Bishop Trimble alongside pastors Oscar Ramos-Gallardo, Marcy Patrick, and Pete Ward, we’ll gather for a devotional focus designed to bring you rest and encouragement in the midst of this season. Meetings will be held Tuesdays, December 1-22 at 1:00 p.m. (ET). For the Zoom link and to register, contact Luska.Natali@inumc.org. If you have any questions, contact Pastor Jen for more information and let her know if you’ll be on the call with her!
Creative Hands
Creative Hands would like to thank everyone for their continued support of our projects benefiting local charities. We will not meet in the month of December so that we can mask up, stay safe, and enjoy the holiday season.
The Tuesday Group
The small group, “THE TUESDAY GROUP” invites you to join us, starting on Tuesday, December 1, for a 4-week Advent study. We meet at 6:30pm via Google “Hangouts”. Please email Jim Puckett if you’d like to join us. jpuckie@yahoo.com
~The Christmas story, or Advent, is more than a sentimental myth or a quiet manger scene we use to decorate our living rooms. The Christmas story is the good news of God entering into our darkness. Join J.D. Greear in this four-session series as he takes a deeper look at Jesus as Emmanuel, our Wonderful Counselor, the Everlasting Father, and the great I Am. When you know Jesus, you will realize Christmas is more than a nice story—the arrival of Jesus changes everything.
Natural Disaster Relief
You may have just seen pictures from Hurricanes Eta and Iota. Did you see those from Typhoons Gone and Vamco? Across the world, natural disasters are devastating communities. The United Methodist Committee on Relief or UMCOR is one of the best long term recovery agencies in the world. If your heart breaks over these natural disasters or other worldwide areas of concern, please keep them in your prayers and if you are able, give through these avenues.
It’s time to order your Christmas Poinsettias!
Christmas Poinsettias are $12.50 each and come in your choice of Red or White. The deadline for all Poinsettia orders is Monday, November 30th. If you would like to order your Poinsettia, you may fill out the order form that will be in your bulletin during Sunday Worship and drop it in the offering plate or you may contact Christin at 765-962-8543 or christin@richmondcumc.com with the following information. Please make all checks out to Central United Methodist Church with “Poinsettias” in the memo line.
From:
In Honor Of:
In Memory Of:
Number of Poinsettias:
Color you would like: Red or White.
If you would like to place an order for Sunday altar flowers in 2021, please call the office at 765-962-8543 or email Christin at christin@richmondcumc.com. Each order costs $25 and is billed through Jack Daggy Flowers. There are plenty of open dates in 2021!
Sounds of the Season
The 2nd annual Sounds of the Season holiday concert is going virtual this year! It will premiere on Central’s Facebook page Saturday, December 12th at 7pm. The program will feature a diverse collection of beloved Christmas classics, sacred and secular alike. Performers will include Minister of Music Madeleine Demetriades on piano and organ, Wesley Ringers Bell Choir, Chancel Choir and many others ready to get you into the Christmas spirit! You won’t want to miss this!
Spice Up Their Life!
It’s time again to donate spices for the Indiana Women’s Prison Christmas bags. It’s been a hard year, so they will be delighted to receive a bottle of spice to use for cooking in their dorms. NO GLASS bottles, please. SUGGESTED SPICES: garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, Italian seasoning, cinnamon, oregano, cayenne, pumpkin pie spice, Taco seasoning. Give your spice donations to Ann Cashner or bring to the church office. NO parsley, NO paprika, NO bay leaves. NO GLASS!
The new 2021 UMW Program Book will be coming out in January. You may pick up your copy at church following the service or we will mail it to you. There will be no UMW
meeting in January. The 2021 UMW “asking” is $15.00.
Commitment Cards
We are humbled by the initial wave of commitment Central has already undertaken for ministry in 2021. You all have again and again showed this community your willingness to pay the bill for the light to shine brightly from 1425 E Main and beyond. We are all truly blessed to be a blessing. If you have not yet offered your commitment card, please continue to pray over what God has set upon your heart. When you have discerned, you can either place it in the offering plate this Sunday or mail it to Central UMC, 1425 E Main St. Richmond, IN 47374. Alternatively, you can login to Realm (our private online directory) and share your pledge commitment through clicking on the Giving tab and then the pledge button. Together, we will offer Hope, Faith, and Love for years to come.
Tech Help in Fellowship Hall
Thank you to all who came during our last session for some tech help! The next sessions are planned for Dec. 9th, Dec. 23rd, and Jan 6th at 3:00pm. If you would like to come to a session, send an email with a description of your problem/question so I can look it over: TechHelpCUMC@gmail.com
Advent Virtual Hymn Study
Tuesdays in December at 2:30, thru 12/22
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November 20th Updates
Posted on Nov 19, 2020 in Newsletter, Uncategorized | 183
UPDATE: Hanging of the Greens
If you were planning to come Saturday for staging for decorating the church and moving heavy items, please contact Pastor Jen first via email or phone.
Sunday’s gathering following worship to hang the greens has been cancelled. If your family/tribe would like to be a part of decorating the church/hanging the greens, please contact Pastor Jen to set up an appointment to help us with physical distancing.
It’s time to order your Christmas Poinsettias!
Christmas Poinsettias are $12.50 each and come in your choice of Red or White. The deadline for all Poinsettia orders is Monday, November 30th. If you would like to order your Poinsettia, you may fill out the order form that will be in your bulletin during Sunday Worship and drop it in the offering plate or you may contact Christin at 765-962-8543 or christin@richmondcumc.com with the following information. Please make all checks out to Central United Methodist Church with “Poinsettias” in the memo line.
From:
In Honor Of:
In Memory Of:
Number of Poinsettias:
Color you would like: Red or White.
The Intermediate Sunday School class is once again collecting quarters for the Laundry Project. While the Trustee’s Office has had to reorganize they are still in need of quarters!!!! The Laundry Jug will be in the parlor today November 22nd.
Food Distribution
The WCFC and Gleaners are partnering up for a food distributions this month, and they need volunteers to help make it happen! The details are:
- 11/23 – 100 S. 10th St. Richmond 9:30-11A
If you can volunteer, please send Caleb Smith (caleb@waynefood.org) a note to let him know! They are in need of 8-10 volunteers. Ideally, you’ll arrive 45 minutes to an hour ahead of time to help with set up. These distributions are outdoors, so dress appropriately! Let Caleb know if you have any questions or need more information. They’ll be putting out some info on social media soon, so make sure to keep your eye out to help spread the word for these events!
Caleb Smith, Chair, Wayne County Food Council
Sounds of the Season
The 2nd annual Sounds of the Season holiday concert is going virtual this year! It will premiere on Central’s Facebook page Saturday, December 12th at 7pm. The program will feature a diverse collection of beloved Christmas classics, sacred and secular alike. Performers will include Minister of Music Madeleine Demetriades on piano and organ, Wesley Ringers Bell Choir, Chancel Choir and many others ready to get you into the Christmas spirit! You won’t want to miss this!
Many congregations celebrate Advent by using an Advent wreath to help worshipers focus on the coming of the Messiah. Each Sunday someone lights another candle on the wreath and leads the congregation in an appropriate reading and prayer. At Christmas, the Christ candle in the center of the circle is lit, signifying that the time of waiting is over. Lighting the Advent wreath is also a great time for us to nurture one another’s faith. This year, we are asking you to share stories showing how God is working in your lives during the lighting of the Advent candles. These can be shared in person as you light the Advent wreath, or on video. Please contact Pastor Jen to learn more and sign up!

If you would like to place an order for Sunday altar flowers in 2021, please call the office at 765-962-8543 or email Christin at christin@richmondcumc.com. Each order costs $25 and is billed through Jack Daggy Flowers. There are plenty of open dates in 2021!

It’s time again to donate spices for the Indiana Women’s Prison Christmas bags. It’s been a hard year, so they will be delighted to receive a bottle of spice to use for cooking in their dorms. NO GLASS bottles, please. SUGGESTED SPICES: garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, Italian seasoning, cinnamon, oregano, cayenne, pumpkin pie spice, Taco seasoning. Give your spice donations to Ann Cashner or bring to the church office. NO parsley, NO paprika, NO bay leaves. NO GLASS!
Thursday, December 10 at 9:00, women from Creative Hands will be baking and eating Christmas goodies in the church kitchen. Come join us for socially distanced fun, food and fellowship. Come anytime between 9:00 and Noon. ALL WOMEN of the church are invited.
The new 2021 UMW Program Book will be coming out in January. You may pick up your copy at church following the service or we will mail it to you. There will be no UMW
meeting in January. The 2021 UMW “asking” is $15.00.

We are humbled by the initial wave of commitment Central has already undertaken for ministry in 2021. You all have again and again showed this community your willingness to pay the bill for the light to shine brightly from 1425 E Main and beyond. We are all truly blessed to be a blessing. If you have not yet offered your commitment card, please continue to pray over what God has set upon your heart. When you have discerned, you can either place it in the offering plate this Sunday or mail it to Central UMC, 1425 E Main St. Richmond, IN 47374. Alternatively, you can login to Realm (our private online directory) and share your pledge commitment through clicking on the Giving tab and then the pledge button. Together, we will offer Hope, Faith, and Love for years to come.
Thank you to all who came during our last session for some tech help! The next sessions are planned for Dec. 9th, Dec. 23rd, and Jan 6th at 3:00pm. If you would like to come to a session, send an email with a description of your problem/question so I can look it over: TechHelpCUMC@gmail.com

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