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December !nSpire
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December 2009
HennepinChurch.org
MAKE YOUR 2010 PLEDGE TODAY
THE STARS OF HENNEPIN NEW YEAR’S RETREAT AT KOINONIA
What could be better than New Year’s Eve at Koinonia, stargazing with Michael Lynch, weatherman extraordinaire, and his giant telescopes? Join others from Hennepin Church relaxing, enjoying the outdoors, a bonfire, crafts, chatting, eating, or doing absolutely nothing. Friends and extended family are always welcome. Begins with supper on Dec. 31 through brunch on Jan 2. • Fees for the entire weekend are 2 nights lodging, five meals - Adults $100, kids $75,family $200; • for one night and 3 meals - Adults 60, kids 40, family $120.00. • Come just for dinner Thursday or Friday night for $15 a person. You may come for as little as an afternoon. We don’t want cost to be a deterrent, so scholarship money is available. Sign-up sheets are at the front desk or you can register online using the form below. We look forwarding to ringing in the new year with you!
As this December newsletter went to press, Hennepin Church members and friends had just experienced Pledge Commitment Sunday in all worship services. Each year, we ask everyone to make an estimate of their giving for the coming year. Yellow pledge cards were mailed to all households, are available in the sanctuary pew pockets, and and appear on the church website under the "giving" menu. We need your support to continue inspiring worship, faith filled classes, and hospitality and outreach to our neighbors near and far. If you have not yet returned your pledge card, please do so today! May your gratitude guide your giving for 2010. CHRIS JACKSON, Minister of Administration on behalf of the staff and Finance/Stewardship Leaders
YOUTH DINNER THEATER IN BETHLEHEM INN
Come see the youth of Hennepin in their interactive dinner theater production of In Bethlehem Inn. This takes place in the Social Hall and will include a play, dinner, and musical entertainment. Tickets on sale in Carlson Hall on Sundays and are also available for purchase online at HennepinChurch.org. They are $10 for adults, $5 for students, free for children under 5, with a family cap at $30. Performances will be Saturday, Dec. 5, at 6:00 PM, as well as Sunday, Dec. 6, at 11:00 AM, replacing that day’s brunch. Hope to see you there! Also, don’t forget our Annual Youth Bake Sale: Dec. 13 & 20.
HAPPY NEWS!
Lily Rosso, daughter of Leah, would like to announce that she’s going to have a sister or brother this coming May!
PREPARE FOR CHRISTMAS WITH MUSIC AND GIVING
will be a concert "Brass, Bronze and Wood," featuring the Cooper Street Brass, the Hennepin Chime and Andrew Hackett, at our wonderful Sipe organ. This is a perfect way to prepare for What are your traditions for Christmas Christmas! Donations from the concert will go to preparation? For me, it used to mean going to Dayton's Anniversary Sale in October to start my the Dignity Center. Our souls will be warmed in two ways — first by hearing the inspiring music Christmas shopping. Then I'd call a friend and and secondly by knowing that the donations will set a date for the two of us to do marathon cookie baking. Lately though, instead of thinking be wisely used to help those in need. (By the about the work of getting the work of Christmas way, the bell ringer at the red kettle may well have gotten his hat and gloves at the Dignity done, I've been thinking in terms of Advent. Center.) While it does connote getting ready for Christmas, the focus becomes quite different. KAREN ROWLEY, Dignity Center First of all, for me it means putting some money in the red Salvation Army kettle. Next Now, more than ever, the Dignity Center up will be helping with the Christmas party for needs your financial support. Because of Dignity Center clients. We'll have food and the downturn in our economy, the D.C. has music, and the clients will get a small gift. One an increased number of clients receiving or two will give me a precious gift by sharing services. By the end of September, 3214 their very real sense that despite all they suffer, clients had been served – 1180 more than a year ago. The demand for bus transportation they feel the presence of God in their lives. No preparation for Christmas would be complete without wonderful music. At Hennepin, we are so fortunate to have the music to come to us. On Sunday, December 20 at 11:00, there
has tripled during 2009! So, when you attend the concert, please make a generous donation to bless those who are struggling to get back on their feet.
THE HENNEPIN GIVING TREE
This year as we enter the Christmas season and prepare to celebrate the coming of Jesus, Hennepin would like to introduce the Giving Tree. This tree represents all of the ways that Hennepin Church offers you the opportunity to give a gift and in return know that you are supporting one of our many ministry programs that are dedicated to serving others in both our local and global communities. Here’s a summary of the opportunities you will find available at Hennepin beginning December 6th: HENNEPIN HEARTWARMERS
INTERNATIONAL CHRISTMAS CRAFT SALE Hennepin’s International Outreach partnerships will be selling crafts in Carlson Hall made by artisans living in Haiti, India, Africa, and Russia on December 6th, 13th, and 20th. Support these ministries and the communities in these countries by purchasing these one-of-a kind gifts. In light of the many changes occurring at Hennepin during this busy time of year and the many opportunities to give that are mentioned above, the Angel Tree Project will not be offered this year. We are looking for people interested in helping plan and organize the Angel Tree Project for the Christmas season of 2010. If interested, please contact Kristyn Ebert at 612-435-1305, or outreach@haumc.org.
In honor of a loved one, make a donation to your choice of various outreach projects around the world, submitted by various Hennepin ministry programs, and change a person’s life with a simple gift. This year the Heartwarmer’s brochures REBUILDING: will be hanging on the Giving Tree in the East A GROUP FOR PEOPLE WHO Entry of the church. Feel welcome to take one and turn it in with your choice of donation to the HAVE BEEN SEPARATED OR DIVORCED Heartwarmer’s table on December 6, 13, or 20. Starting January 14th, a rebuilding group for people who are separated or divorced is being TOYS FOR TOTS led by Rev. Mary Keen (a United Methodist The Children’s Council is collecting Toys! Toys for Tots, a program of the US Marine Corps pastor and therapist at Westminster Presbyterian Reserve, collects donations of new, unwrapped Counseling Center). It will be held on Thursday evenings from 6-8 pm, starting with a potluck toys for kids of all ages. Toys are distributed to meal. Cost is $40 and includes a book with children in need within the community, who registration. Aid is available for those not able might not otherwise have Christmas gifts under to cover the $40. The group will run for seven the tree. Collection boxes will be under the Giving Tree in the East Entry on Sundays begin- weeks. Register by calling the church at 612871-5303 or signing up at the reception desk. ning December 6. Please contact Pastor Leah with any questions at BOOTS FOR CHILDREN OF STONEBRIDGE SCHOOL Leah@haumc.org. 150 children attend this school in downtown Minneapolis. All of them are either homeless or THE CHURCH BUILDING WILL BE CLOSED on Friday, live in transient housing. We will be collecting December 25th and Friday, January 1st in new winter boots for these children in sizes 3-7. observance of the holidays. The Church will Please bring your boots to the Art Gallery on have limited hours on Saturday, December 26th Sunday mornings or make a donation by check and Saturday, January 2nd. Please schedule in to HAUMC with 'BOOTS' in the memo line. advance your plans or call the church that day if Please make your contribution by December 18. you plan to be in the building on these days
SO, HOW ARE THE CHILDREN?
Though it may sometimes be invisible, much has been going on in Children’s Ministries at Hennepin. With Maria Wiblin’s resignation, Staff Parish Relations Committee increased Dana Neuhauser’s (Assistant in Children’s Ministries) hours for an interim time as Director of Children’s Minsitries. Dana lives in South Minneapolis with her husband, three children (9, 7 and 3 years old) and 5 chickens. Prior to joining the staff at Hennepin, Dana was Director of Christian Education at the Church of the Good Shepherd UMC in St. Paul. Before joining the staff at Good Shepherd she was an admissions officer at Macalester College. Dana graduated from Macalester with a B.A. in Japan Studies and earned a M.A. in Higher Education Administration from The University of Michigan at Ann Arbor. She is an active member of Christian Educators Fellowship. Dana helped lead our Children’s Ministries through the shift from the Rotation Model of Sunday School which had been in place for several years to Seasons of the Spirit, a lectionary based curriculum that is being used with children, youth and adults. Dana says this about this very significant shift:
“The change to Seasons of the Spirit has been met with enthusiasm. One of the best things about the curriculum is that it follows the lectionary. Families have generally experienced the same scripture in worship and Sunday school and have an opportunity to continue talking about it together after church ends.
Having the same teachers for the whole year has provided consistency that both children and parents appreciate. All classes preschool – 5th grade gather in Carlson Hall for an opening worship time. We light a candle to remind us that Jesus is the Light of the World, sing a song or two, collect an offering, and say a prayer. Through these small gestures, they are learning some of the behaviors and expectations of corporate worship. It has been a great joy to see children as young as three sharing their quarters to help others and singing along to a variety of hymns and Sunday school songs.”
Dana reports that some of the interesting things happening in Children’s Ministries right now includes the 3rd grade class currently taking a break from Seasons of the Spirit to learn more about the Bible. “It is wonderful to see them with their Bibles in hand, getting more comfortable using them and feeling more ownership of this special book. I’ve even heard a few rumors of older siblings with a touch of envy over the new Children’s NRSVs that we gave this year.” Dana states that one of her goals for 2010 is to further develop a faith milestones ministry. Faith milestones are the significant markers that we experience in our journey of faith, for example, receiving our first Bible and Confirmation. There are other milestones she would like to celebrate and lift up in the children’s faith development. At each age and stage, children and their families will have the chance to celebrate and learn more about these special milestones of faith. If you have not met Dana yet, please introduce yourself. In addition to Sunday mornings, she is usually in the office Tuesday – Thursday 10:30 AM – 4:00 PM and is always available by e-mail at Dana@haumc.org. Don't worry about keeping things warm as we have access to the kitchen. Please join us for an evening of fun and friendship in the Longfellow Room at 6:30pm. Contact Leah@haumc.org.
40 BELOW CHRISTMAS PARTY!
Let's start the Christmas season early with a potluck on December 10th! If you are able please bring a toy or game for Toys For Tots.
BRASS QUINTET FINDS BLESSING IN MAKING, SHARING MUSIC
To get acquainted and increase its visibility, The CSBQ began offering its services for church worship. One Sunday the quintet played with Hennepin’s former organist Don Livingston, who put the group in touch with Bill Mathis, Hennepin’s minister of music and fine arts. The CSBQ became Hennepin’s artist-in-residence in September 2008. “It’s a mutually beneficial relationship,” says Bill. SHARING THEIR CRAFT In addition to performing what they call “classroom showcases,” a mix of performing and teaching for band classes and brass sections, the five musicians have recently developed their Academy Mentorship Program (AMP). The AMP partners with an inner city school to provide free music lessons to deserving students who may not otherwise be able to afford them. “In working with students, we also can help them build interpersonal, leadership and communication skills,” says Allison. Incorporated as a 501(c)3 nonprofit, the quintet is a full-time ensemble that rehearses four times a week and maintains an office in Hennepin Church. The CSBQ is currently looking to expand its board of directors and is also seeking funding for its community performances and AMP and commissions of new works for brass. On Dec. 12, the quintet will be part of a holiday program at the new Lakeville Performing Arts Center, and a two-week-long January 2010 tour will take the group all the way to Houston, Texas. No matter how far they travel, group members will continue to engage Twin Cities audiences with their music and creativity — especially those at Hennepin. “Everyone here is supportive of what we’re doing,” says Tim. “We’re lucky to have the opportunity to be here in this beautiful church.” BOBBIE KELLER
For The Copper Street Brass Quintet, Hennepin’s current artist-in-residence, connection with the church is a natural fit. “To us music-making is spiritual,” says Timothy Bradley, who plays horn. “Interacting with our audiences and each other inspires us, and we enjoy the creativity that being in a small group allows.” As artist-in-residence, the Copper Street Brass Quintet (The CSBQ) participates in worship and concerts at Hennepin, and rehearses at the church. The quintet also presents community concerts, offers educational outreach programs, and provides music for festivals, weddings and other events outside the church. Group members write and arrange much of their own music. “As a chamber group, we’re flexible,” says Corbin Dillon, who plays trumpet. “We play as well in intimate settings as in concert halls — brass music doesn’t have to be loud.” Besides Tim and Corbin, The CSBQ includes Allison Hall, also on trumpet, Alex Wolff on trombone and Stefan Kac on tuba. Tim is the group’s music arranger, and Stefan is its resident composer. NEW MEXICO BEGINNING The CSBQ formed in Albuquerque, N. M., in the summer of 2007 and named itself after a street near Tim’s home there because the name had “a good ring,” he says. The group moved to Minnesota a year later. “New Mexico is a wonderful place, but we wanted to take advantage of the great arts scene here in the Twin Cities,” says Tim.
The Copper Street Brass Quintet will be part of the Brass, Bronze and Wood concert on Sunday, Dec. 20 at 11:00 a.m. in the Sanctuary. The group will also provide music along with the Sanctuary Choir and Hennepin Chime for the 11 p.m. service Christmas Eve and the prelude concert at 10:30. A link to the CSBQ website can be found at HennepinChurch.org, just look under “Music and Arts.”
ONE POTATO, TWO POTATO…
The Gandhi Ashram is a cooperative of weavers in Jaipur, India who bear the stigma of leprosy. Because they were unable to secure jobs, they started a Weavers’ Cooperative, then a School and then a Dispensary for their own children and those in the neighborhood. The India Partnership has been helping support this Co-Op as they turn social custom upside down by becoming leaders in their community through the successful school and dispensary services. Weaving has been the mainstay of their income, but markets are disappearing. Personal income is scarce. A “Rebuild the School” Scholarship Fund has recently begun to help keep students at
the school. HAUMC has supported the weavers largely through donations from Hunger Offering, Project 52, Heartwarmers, and purchase of their hand loomed goods. And the India Partnership has been looking for other ways to sustain the Cooperative. The India Partnership linked with Compatible Technology International has applied for and received a grant from Vista Hermosa Foundation, a family enterprise in NW USA. It will fund a potato processing plant on the grounds of the Gandhi Ashram. This chance for new employment is really a Godsend. Potato processing technology is not new and uses simple equipment. Pray for its success as this Gandhi Ashram project begins this first, start-up POTATO year.
— Hank Garwick (HAUMC) and Joy DeHarpporte (Prospect Park UMC) for the India Partnership
Several people have asked about the Children’s Bulletins. Largely, the decision to stop buying the bulletins was based on the fact that children leave sanctuary worship following the children’s sermon, approximately 15 minutes into the service. These bulletins are intended as a way to engage children in the lectionary and are particularly useful during the sermon, when children are likely to disengage from the service. The first part of worship is interactive and engaging and it is appropriate that children participate. There is no doubt that bringing a child to church can be an exercise in aggravation. While we do not want our children to be disruptive or hamper the congregation’s worship, we must remember that baptized children are members of the church. Children learn by doing, so helping them to participate in the liturgy is helping them learn what it means to be part of this Christian community. On the Sundays when there is no Sunday school for children, age-appropriate bulletins that follow the order of worship will be available. these pews available to church members before A PEW FOR YOU! donating them to other organizations or persons. With the Board of Trustees’ planned remodeling There are 22 oak pews: 8’ 3” long. If interested, of the Border Memorial Chapel, the pews in the please contact Chris Jackson in the church office chapel will no longer be used. We want to make at Chris@haumc.org, or 612-435-1308.
WHERE HAVE ALL THE CHILDREN'S BULLETINS GONE?
FAITH IN ACTION IS NOVEMBER TOPIC FOR AD COUNCIL
Church visited Cuba in October as Volunteers in Mission, part of a United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR) project. The group helped to renovate a hallway in the Cuban Methodist The Ministries to the City (local outreach) Committee officially became the Faith in Action Seminary, Havana, and visited several Methodist Team following Administrative Council approval churches and a retirement home. Dunbar also reported on the status of Hennepin Nov. 5. “The needs of the church, as well as Church’s five outreach partnerships, with India, committee members’ time commitment and Haiti, Africa, Russia and UMCOR. The most interest, have changed,” said Kristyn Ebert Johnson, director of outreach and volunteerism, action is happening in India, where Hennepin Church is helping to support a growing school in explaining the change. that now has more than 250 students. The objecAccording to the name-change proposal, the tive is to help the school become self-sustaining. Faith in Action Team wants to engage more Dunbar said that 28 Hennepin Church people Hennepin Church participants in “working with would participate in the annual Volunteers in and serving others through projects in the surMission trip to Sager Brown in Louisiana in rounding community.” Its objectives include January 2010. educating Hennepin Church people on ways In addition, a church member is organizing a they can put their faith into action, and planning Hennepin emergency response team that could and implementing local outreach opportunities help with clean-up efforts from natural and other such as participation in Habitat for Humanity. disasters if needed. A training session for those While they feel it’s important to know what interested will take place this winter. others are doing, group members will spend less meeting time reporting on projects and Ad Council members also heard that: more on making them happen. Creating a • Following the departure of Maria Wiblin, budget, dispersing funds, and deciding what minister of youth and multigenerational ministries to support through hunger offerings ministries, Sonja Parr is coordinating youth and Project 52 will remain part of the team’s ministries. function. • Our annual Church Conference will take In other business, Larry Dunbar, international place Saturday, January 30th at 9:00 AM. outreach chair, Pastor Bruce Robbins and Kristyn Ebert Johnson discussed a recent mission trip to BOBBIE KELLER Cuba. They and eight others from Hennepin given a photo keepsake. For many clients, this party may be the only celebration they attend, and the only place they will receive a gift. There is still time for you to become part of the celebration. You can donate money to purchase a gift certificate for a client; sign up to bring cookies or a salad for the luncheon; help serve food for the event; or provide hospitality to our guests at the event. For questions, contact Ann Carlson Carlsonaj99@msn.com 612-435-1336.
DIGNITY CENTER PLANS A JOYOUS CHRISTMAS PARTY FOR CLIENTS
At noon on December 18 there will be gospel music, a delicious luncheon, holiday gifts and smiles on the faces of Dignity Center clients and volunteers. Each client will receive a $20 gift certificate from Target, thanks to the generosity of Hennepin Church members. Steeple People will provide Christmas mugs stuffed with candy. Photos will be taken and each client will be
SELECTED EVENTS…
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 11 Life Adventures Lunch 12:00 PM SUNDAY, DECEMBER 13 Regular Sunday worship at TUESDAY, DECEMBER 1 8:30, 9:00, 9:30, 11:00 AM Youth Council 6:00 PM Sunday School 9:45 AM India Partnership 6:30 PM Breakfast 10:30 AM Reconciling Committee 6:30 PM Blood Pressure Screening 10:30 AM FAQs LGBTA Fellowship 10:45 AM Faith and Life Group 8:00 PM Spirituality of Parenting 11:00 AM WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 2 Qi Gong 11:00 AM Kjerringsleppets 5:30 PM Sr. High Girls’ Book Club 7:00 PM Praying the Scriptures 11:00 AM Seasons of the Spirit 5:00 PM THURSDAY, DECEMBER 3 First Light Class 5:30 PM Bible Study 11:00 AM MONDAY, DECEMBER 14 Prayer Shawl Meeting 1:30 PM Multi Cultural Committee 7:00 PM Labyrinth Open 3:00 PM TUESDAY, DECEMBER 15 Administrative Council 6:00 PM Science&Faith Roundtable 7:00 PM Children’s Council 6:30 PM Inter/National Outreach 6:30 PM SATURDAY, DECEMBER 5 Faith and Fiction 7:00 PM UMW Christmas Event 9:00 AM Faith and Life Group 8:00 PM Dinner Theater 6:00 PM WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 16 SUNDAY, DECEMBER 6 Steeple People Board 5:30 PM Regular Sunday worship at Food Service Cmte 6:30 PM 8:30, 9:00, 9:30, 11:00 AM Koinonia Board 7:00 PM Quilt Sale 9:00 AM Trustees Meeting 7:00 PM Sunday School 9:45 AM Sr. High Girls’ Book Club 7:00 PM Breakfast 10:30 AM THURSDAY, DECEMBER 17 Spirituality of Parenting 11:00 AM Jan. !nSpire Deadline 10:00 AM Qi Gong 11:00 AM Labyrinth Open 3:00 PM Dinner Theater 11:00 AM Staff Parish Relations 6:00 PM Holiday Baking 4:00 PM Lydia Circle 7:00 PM Community Meals 4:45 PM FRIDAY, DECEMBER 18 Seasons of the Spirit 5:00 PM Dignity Center Client Party 12:00 First Light Class 5:30 PM SUNDAY, DECEMBER 20 MONDAY, DECEMBER 7 Regular Sunday worship at Job Transition Group 7:00 PM 8:30, 9:00, 9:30, 11:00 AM Beginner’s Bible Study 7:00 PM Youth Bake Sale 9:30 AM TUESDAY, DECEMBER 8 Sunday School 9:45 AM Russia Partnership 6:30 PM Breakfast 10:30 AM Finance Committee 7:00 PM Brass, Bronze & Wood 11:00 AM Faith and Life Group 8:00 PM Peace & Justice Forum 11:00 AM WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 9 Seasons of the Spirit 5:00 PM Little Kids, Big Fun 5:30 PM First Light Class 5:30 PM THURSDAY, DECEMBER 10 MONDAY, DECEMBER 21 Joy Circle 9:00 AM Job Transition Group 7:00 PM Senior Council 9:30 AM Beginner’s Bible Study 7:00 PM Bible Study 11:00 AM TUESDAY, DECEMBER 22 Labyrinth Open 3:00 PM Dignity Center Steering 6:30 PM 40 Below Potluck 6:00 PM Adult Nurture 6:30 PM Foundation Board 6:00 PM Faith and Life Group 8:00 PM
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24
Christmas Eve Worship Services
12:00 Noon — Carols & Communion in the Chapel 2:00 PM — Labyrinth, Carols and Poetry in Art Gallery 4:00 PM — Christmas Worship and Pageant in the Sanctuary 5:30 PM — A Service of Remembrance in the Chapel 7:00 PM — Carols & Communion in the Sanctuary 11:00 PM — Carols & Communion in the Sanctuary (with a 10:30 PM Prelude Concert) FRIDAY, DECEMBER 25
Building Closed Christmas Day
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 26
Building Closed
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 27 Regular Sunday worship at 8:30, 9:00, 9:30, 11:00 AM NO Sunday School Seeds of Celebration 10:00 AM MONDAY, DECEMBER 28 Fine Arts Committee 7:00 PM TUESDAY, DECEMBER 29 Faith and Life Group 8:00 PM THURSDAY, DECEMBER 31 Labyrinth 3:00 PM Koinonia Retreat 5:00 PM FRIDAY, JANUARY 1 Koinonia Retreat — All Day SATURDAY, JANUARY 2 Koinonia Retreat: ends in the AM
Send calendar corrections to: Schedule@haumc.org Save the Date: 9:00 AM Jan. 30, for a Church Conference. More information to come. See the Jan. !nSpire and Sunday Spires.
THE NETWORK CHRISTMAS PARTY
then carpool over to A Brave New Workshop for “Bret Favre’s Christmas Spectacular” at 8pm. Have some Christmas fun and meet other United Cost: only $10! RSVP by Dec.10 for the show Methodists in their 20’s and 30’s at The Network and for childcare. Email Leah (Leah@haumc.org) Christmas Party! Potluck at 6-ish at Hennepin, or call the church: 612-871-5303.
BE THERE. BE HOPE. CHRISTMAS OUTREACH OFFERING FOR SUDAN EMERGENCY
Independence from foreign rule came to Sudan in 1956 but for most of the years following it has been at war for complex reasons – economical, political, racial, religious/cultural differences, severe drought and desertification. Over 6 million Sudanese have been internally displaced and a half million fled to other countries.* Some have returned, but many continue to be displaced. UMCOR (United Methodist Committee on Relief), United Methodists’ humanitarian aid agency, has been in Sudan since 2005 to help people uprooted by conflict and struggling with a lack of resources. In its sites in the capitol city of Khartoum, extreme Southern Sudan, and Southern Darfur, UMCOR provides humanitarian aid and serves as model for peace and diplomacy as it works for the good of the whole population through both emergency and long term development projects. It work is described below. • UMCOR staff, teachers, children served participants in skill’s building classes, and community leaders working with UMCOR come from all different tribal and political groups and from all sides of the conflict. • Women, as well as men, serve in the decision making. • Needs of both the displacement camps and their host communities are considered and served. • Food insecurity is alleviated and livelihoods are promoted through sustainable agriculture programs providing seeds and tools, and agronomists to share new technologies.
Schools and supplies for children, training for teachers, and vocational training programs for young adults and women are provided. • Safe water is insured and water points established. • A camp registration process has been established and has become a model for others. • Emergency supplies are distributed to camp residents – plastic sheeting, jerry cans to carry water, blankets… Through Christmas, God offers a gift of hope for a better world. The Hennepin congregation will soon be asked to give their own gift of hope for the uprooted people of Sudan. The Christmas Outreach Offering, dedicated this year for UMCOR use in the Sudan Emergency will assist a struggling people to work toward a better future.
*Statistics from USAid Bureau for Democracy,Conflict, and Humanitarian Assistance (DCHA) May 2008. Internal Displacement Monitoring Centre, Nov. 2007.
•
In the city of Al Daein, blacksmiths forge farming implements that UMCOR is distributing to internally displaced families. Rather than import the tools from somewhere else, UMCOR is supporting the local economy of the region by providing employment to local craftspeople. Credit: Paul Jeffrey/UMCOR
HOLIDAY BAKING (AND EATING) FOR PEOPLE IN THEIR 20’S AND 30’S!
Come enjoy great company, learn how to make delicious desserts, and, of course, eat them! This is a cooking class for people who love to eat and don’t mind learning a few things along the way. (Recipes will be available to take home with you, and perhaps some leftovers too!) Sunday, December 6th at 4:00 PM at the parsonage. Cost is $5/person. Contact Leah for more information: Leah@haumc.org.
QI GONG
Qi Gong (pronounced: Chee Gung) is a form of exercise that works with the energy in the body to support all systems of health and wellness. James Schattauer will be share his journey with Qi Gong and some of the exercises that have been personally effective in building strength, mental acuity and better health. Each session will begin with an easy warm up, followed by a series of simple exercises that will be taught in a certain order so that the participant will be able to take what they learn and establish their own routine at home. Wear comfortable clothing. Dec. 6 & 13, Jan. 10 & 17 at 11:00 AM.
THE SPIRITUALITY OF CHILDREN AND PARENTING
Please join these teachers and parent educators to discuss and share resources on the spiritual nature of children and parenting, how to nurture our children’s spiritual lives, and how to answer their “big” questions, even as we have questions of our own. Take a break in the early days of December to celebrate the joy of the children that grace your lives. Led by Deb Roberts and Kathryn Johnson, Dec. 6 & 13 at 11:00 AM.
PRAYING THE SCRIPTURES OF ADVENT
The scriptures of Advent invite us into an encounter with the One who lives among us, Emmanuel. In the winter of our Minnesota days we are also surrounded by the darkness which holds Mystery and the promise of the everincreasing light. We will use the ancient prayer practice of lectio divina to listen to familiar scriptures in new ways, allowing them to become our prayer for this most holy season. December 13 at 11:00 AM, led by Sally Johnson.
ANNUAL YOUTH HOLIDAY BAKE SALE
On Sundays Dec. 13 and 20, please bring your favorite holiday treats for donation, to be sold at this event. Please package treats so they are ready to be sold, and bring them to the Bake Sale tables in Carlson Hall before 9:30 AM on the morning of the sale. Contact Ellen if you want to help: Ellen-HotLava@comcast.net
WELCOMING THE WILD ONE
Our 2009 Advent Devotionals are in! Thanks to all our contributors! You may pick one up at the church or you may read along each day online at HennepinChurch.org/Advent. Enjoy the “Wild” -ness and Amanda Hunter’s art in this cooperative project!
Hennepin Avenue United Methodist Church
A monthly newsletter of Hennepin Avenue United Methodist Church. Please submit all photos, stories and story ideas to Daniel Pederson at the church, 612-435-1320 or use the on-line form at HennepinChurch.org/share. All items are subject to editing for content and space availability. The January 2010 !nSpire deadline is 10:00 AM, Thursday, Dec. 17.
511 Groveland Avenue, Minneapolis, MN 55403 612-871-5303 HENNEPINCHURCH.ORG
Hennepin Avenue United Methodist Church 511 Groveland Avenue Minneapolis, MN 55403
Nonprofit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Permit No. 2906 Minneapolis, MN
Sunday Worship at Hennepin
DECEMBER 6 - 2nd Sunday in Advent
8:30 AM 9:00 AM 9:30 AM 11:00 AM 8:30 AM 9:00 AM 9:30 AM 11:00 AM 8:30 AM 9:00 AM 9:30 AM 11:00 AM 8:30 AM 9:00 AM 9:30 AM 11:00 AM Communion Sacred Journey Sanctuary-Bruce Robbins, preacher Many Voices-Bruce Robbins, leader Communion Sacred Journey Sanctuary-Leah Rosso, preacher Many Voices-Leah Rosso, leader Communion Sacred Journey Sanctuary-Bruce Robbins, preacher Many Voices-Sally Johnson, leader Communion Sacred Journey Sanctuary-Bruce Robbins, preacher Many Voices-Bruce Robbins, leader
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24 Christmas Eve Services
12:00 Noon Carols, Communion in the Chapel 2:00 PM Labyrinth, Carols, Poetry in the Art Gallery 4:00 PM Christmas Worship and Pageant in the Sanctuary 5:30 PM Service of Remembrance in the Chapel 7:00 PM Carols and Communion in the Sanctuary 11:00 PM Carols and Communion in the Sanctuary (10:30 Prelude Concert)
DECEMBER 13 - 3rd Sunday in Advent
DECEMBER 20 - 4th Sunday in Advent
DECEMBER 27 (NO SUNDAY SCHOOL)
Relevant
Inclusive
Beautiful
December 2009
HennepinChurch.org
MAKE YOUR 2010 PLEDGE TODAY
THE STARS OF HENNEPIN NEW YEAR’S RETREAT AT KOINONIA
What could be better than New Year’s Eve at Koinonia, stargazing with Michael Lynch, weatherman extraordinaire, and his giant telescopes? Join others from Hennepin Church relaxing, enjoying the outdoors, a bonfire, crafts, chatting, eating, or doing absolutely nothing. Friends and extended family are always welcome. Begins with supper on Dec. 31 through brunch on Jan 2. • Fees for the entire weekend are 2 nights lodging, five meals - Adults $100, kids $75,family $200; • for one night and 3 meals - Adults 60, kids 40, family $120.00. • Come just for dinner Thursday or Friday night for $15 a person. You may come for as little as an afternoon. We don’t want cost to be a deterrent, so scholarship money is available. Sign-up sheets are at the front desk or you can register online using the form below. We look forwarding to ringing in the new year with you!
As this December newsletter went to press, Hennepin Church members and friends had just experienced Pledge Commitment Sunday in all worship services. Each year, we ask everyone to make an estimate of their giving for the coming year. Yellow pledge cards were mailed to all households, are available in the sanctuary pew pockets, and and appear on the church website under the "giving" menu. We need your support to continue inspiring worship, faith filled classes, and hospitality and outreach to our neighbors near and far. If you have not yet returned your pledge card, please do so today! May your gratitude guide your giving for 2010. CHRIS JACKSON, Minister of Administration on behalf of the staff and Finance/Stewardship Leaders
YOUTH DINNER THEATER IN BETHLEHEM INN
Come see the youth of Hennepin in their interactive dinner theater production of In Bethlehem Inn. This takes place in the Social Hall and will include a play, dinner, and musical entertainment. Tickets on sale in Carlson Hall on Sundays and are also available for purchase online at HennepinChurch.org. They are $10 for adults, $5 for students, free for children under 5, with a family cap at $30. Performances will be Saturday, Dec. 5, at 6:00 PM, as well as Sunday, Dec. 6, at 11:00 AM, replacing that day’s brunch. Hope to see you there! Also, don’t forget our Annual Youth Bake Sale: Dec. 13 & 20.
HAPPY NEWS!
Lily Rosso, daughter of Leah, would like to announce that she’s going to have a sister or brother this coming May!
PREPARE FOR CHRISTMAS WITH MUSIC AND GIVING
will be a concert "Brass, Bronze and Wood," featuring the Cooper Street Brass, the Hennepin Chime and Andrew Hackett, at our wonderful Sipe organ. This is a perfect way to prepare for What are your traditions for Christmas Christmas! Donations from the concert will go to preparation? For me, it used to mean going to Dayton's Anniversary Sale in October to start my the Dignity Center. Our souls will be warmed in two ways — first by hearing the inspiring music Christmas shopping. Then I'd call a friend and and secondly by knowing that the donations will set a date for the two of us to do marathon cookie baking. Lately though, instead of thinking be wisely used to help those in need. (By the about the work of getting the work of Christmas way, the bell ringer at the red kettle may well have gotten his hat and gloves at the Dignity done, I've been thinking in terms of Advent. Center.) While it does connote getting ready for Christmas, the focus becomes quite different. KAREN ROWLEY, Dignity Center First of all, for me it means putting some money in the red Salvation Army kettle. Next Now, more than ever, the Dignity Center up will be helping with the Christmas party for needs your financial support. Because of Dignity Center clients. We'll have food and the downturn in our economy, the D.C. has music, and the clients will get a small gift. One an increased number of clients receiving or two will give me a precious gift by sharing services. By the end of September, 3214 their very real sense that despite all they suffer, clients had been served – 1180 more than a year ago. The demand for bus transportation they feel the presence of God in their lives. No preparation for Christmas would be complete without wonderful music. At Hennepin, we are so fortunate to have the music to come to us. On Sunday, December 20 at 11:00, there
has tripled during 2009! So, when you attend the concert, please make a generous donation to bless those who are struggling to get back on their feet.
THE HENNEPIN GIVING TREE
This year as we enter the Christmas season and prepare to celebrate the coming of Jesus, Hennepin would like to introduce the Giving Tree. This tree represents all of the ways that Hennepin Church offers you the opportunity to give a gift and in return know that you are supporting one of our many ministry programs that are dedicated to serving others in both our local and global communities. Here’s a summary of the opportunities you will find available at Hennepin beginning December 6th: HENNEPIN HEARTWARMERS
INTERNATIONAL CHRISTMAS CRAFT SALE Hennepin’s International Outreach partnerships will be selling crafts in Carlson Hall made by artisans living in Haiti, India, Africa, and Russia on December 6th, 13th, and 20th. Support these ministries and the communities in these countries by purchasing these one-of-a kind gifts. In light of the many changes occurring at Hennepin during this busy time of year and the many opportunities to give that are mentioned above, the Angel Tree Project will not be offered this year. We are looking for people interested in helping plan and organize the Angel Tree Project for the Christmas season of 2010. If interested, please contact Kristyn Ebert at 612-435-1305, or outreach@haumc.org.
In honor of a loved one, make a donation to your choice of various outreach projects around the world, submitted by various Hennepin ministry programs, and change a person’s life with a simple gift. This year the Heartwarmer’s brochures REBUILDING: will be hanging on the Giving Tree in the East A GROUP FOR PEOPLE WHO Entry of the church. Feel welcome to take one and turn it in with your choice of donation to the HAVE BEEN SEPARATED OR DIVORCED Heartwarmer’s table on December 6, 13, or 20. Starting January 14th, a rebuilding group for people who are separated or divorced is being TOYS FOR TOTS led by Rev. Mary Keen (a United Methodist The Children’s Council is collecting Toys! Toys for Tots, a program of the US Marine Corps pastor and therapist at Westminster Presbyterian Reserve, collects donations of new, unwrapped Counseling Center). It will be held on Thursday evenings from 6-8 pm, starting with a potluck toys for kids of all ages. Toys are distributed to meal. Cost is $40 and includes a book with children in need within the community, who registration. Aid is available for those not able might not otherwise have Christmas gifts under to cover the $40. The group will run for seven the tree. Collection boxes will be under the Giving Tree in the East Entry on Sundays begin- weeks. Register by calling the church at 612871-5303 or signing up at the reception desk. ning December 6. Please contact Pastor Leah with any questions at BOOTS FOR CHILDREN OF STONEBRIDGE SCHOOL Leah@haumc.org. 150 children attend this school in downtown Minneapolis. All of them are either homeless or THE CHURCH BUILDING WILL BE CLOSED on Friday, live in transient housing. We will be collecting December 25th and Friday, January 1st in new winter boots for these children in sizes 3-7. observance of the holidays. The Church will Please bring your boots to the Art Gallery on have limited hours on Saturday, December 26th Sunday mornings or make a donation by check and Saturday, January 2nd. Please schedule in to HAUMC with 'BOOTS' in the memo line. advance your plans or call the church that day if Please make your contribution by December 18. you plan to be in the building on these days
SO, HOW ARE THE CHILDREN?
Though it may sometimes be invisible, much has been going on in Children’s Ministries at Hennepin. With Maria Wiblin’s resignation, Staff Parish Relations Committee increased Dana Neuhauser’s (Assistant in Children’s Ministries) hours for an interim time as Director of Children’s Minsitries. Dana lives in South Minneapolis with her husband, three children (9, 7 and 3 years old) and 5 chickens. Prior to joining the staff at Hennepin, Dana was Director of Christian Education at the Church of the Good Shepherd UMC in St. Paul. Before joining the staff at Good Shepherd she was an admissions officer at Macalester College. Dana graduated from Macalester with a B.A. in Japan Studies and earned a M.A. in Higher Education Administration from The University of Michigan at Ann Arbor. She is an active member of Christian Educators Fellowship. Dana helped lead our Children’s Ministries through the shift from the Rotation Model of Sunday School which had been in place for several years to Seasons of the Spirit, a lectionary based curriculum that is being used with children, youth and adults. Dana says this about this very significant shift:
“The change to Seasons of the Spirit has been met with enthusiasm. One of the best things about the curriculum is that it follows the lectionary. Families have generally experienced the same scripture in worship and Sunday school and have an opportunity to continue talking about it together after church ends.
Having the same teachers for the whole year has provided consistency that both children and parents appreciate. All classes preschool – 5th grade gather in Carlson Hall for an opening worship time. We light a candle to remind us that Jesus is the Light of the World, sing a song or two, collect an offering, and say a prayer. Through these small gestures, they are learning some of the behaviors and expectations of corporate worship. It has been a great joy to see children as young as three sharing their quarters to help others and singing along to a variety of hymns and Sunday school songs.”
Dana reports that some of the interesting things happening in Children’s Ministries right now includes the 3rd grade class currently taking a break from Seasons of the Spirit to learn more about the Bible. “It is wonderful to see them with their Bibles in hand, getting more comfortable using them and feeling more ownership of this special book. I’ve even heard a few rumors of older siblings with a touch of envy over the new Children’s NRSVs that we gave this year.” Dana states that one of her goals for 2010 is to further develop a faith milestones ministry. Faith milestones are the significant markers that we experience in our journey of faith, for example, receiving our first Bible and Confirmation. There are other milestones she would like to celebrate and lift up in the children’s faith development. At each age and stage, children and their families will have the chance to celebrate and learn more about these special milestones of faith. If you have not met Dana yet, please introduce yourself. In addition to Sunday mornings, she is usually in the office Tuesday – Thursday 10:30 AM – 4:00 PM and is always available by e-mail at Dana@haumc.org. Don't worry about keeping things warm as we have access to the kitchen. Please join us for an evening of fun and friendship in the Longfellow Room at 6:30pm. Contact Leah@haumc.org.
40 BELOW CHRISTMAS PARTY!
Let's start the Christmas season early with a potluck on December 10th! If you are able please bring a toy or game for Toys For Tots.
BRASS QUINTET FINDS BLESSING IN MAKING, SHARING MUSIC
To get acquainted and increase its visibility, The CSBQ began offering its services for church worship. One Sunday the quintet played with Hennepin’s former organist Don Livingston, who put the group in touch with Bill Mathis, Hennepin’s minister of music and fine arts. The CSBQ became Hennepin’s artist-in-residence in September 2008. “It’s a mutually beneficial relationship,” says Bill. SHARING THEIR CRAFT In addition to performing what they call “classroom showcases,” a mix of performing and teaching for band classes and brass sections, the five musicians have recently developed their Academy Mentorship Program (AMP). The AMP partners with an inner city school to provide free music lessons to deserving students who may not otherwise be able to afford them. “In working with students, we also can help them build interpersonal, leadership and communication skills,” says Allison. Incorporated as a 501(c)3 nonprofit, the quintet is a full-time ensemble that rehearses four times a week and maintains an office in Hennepin Church. The CSBQ is currently looking to expand its board of directors and is also seeking funding for its community performances and AMP and commissions of new works for brass. On Dec. 12, the quintet will be part of a holiday program at the new Lakeville Performing Arts Center, and a two-week-long January 2010 tour will take the group all the way to Houston, Texas. No matter how far they travel, group members will continue to engage Twin Cities audiences with their music and creativity — especially those at Hennepin. “Everyone here is supportive of what we’re doing,” says Tim. “We’re lucky to have the opportunity to be here in this beautiful church.” BOBBIE KELLER
For The Copper Street Brass Quintet, Hennepin’s current artist-in-residence, connection with the church is a natural fit. “To us music-making is spiritual,” says Timothy Bradley, who plays horn. “Interacting with our audiences and each other inspires us, and we enjoy the creativity that being in a small group allows.” As artist-in-residence, the Copper Street Brass Quintet (The CSBQ) participates in worship and concerts at Hennepin, and rehearses at the church. The quintet also presents community concerts, offers educational outreach programs, and provides music for festivals, weddings and other events outside the church. Group members write and arrange much of their own music. “As a chamber group, we’re flexible,” says Corbin Dillon, who plays trumpet. “We play as well in intimate settings as in concert halls — brass music doesn’t have to be loud.” Besides Tim and Corbin, The CSBQ includes Allison Hall, also on trumpet, Alex Wolff on trombone and Stefan Kac on tuba. Tim is the group’s music arranger, and Stefan is its resident composer. NEW MEXICO BEGINNING The CSBQ formed in Albuquerque, N. M., in the summer of 2007 and named itself after a street near Tim’s home there because the name had “a good ring,” he says. The group moved to Minnesota a year later. “New Mexico is a wonderful place, but we wanted to take advantage of the great arts scene here in the Twin Cities,” says Tim.
The Copper Street Brass Quintet will be part of the Brass, Bronze and Wood concert on Sunday, Dec. 20 at 11:00 a.m. in the Sanctuary. The group will also provide music along with the Sanctuary Choir and Hennepin Chime for the 11 p.m. service Christmas Eve and the prelude concert at 10:30. A link to the CSBQ website can be found at HennepinChurch.org, just look under “Music and Arts.”
ONE POTATO, TWO POTATO…
The Gandhi Ashram is a cooperative of weavers in Jaipur, India who bear the stigma of leprosy. Because they were unable to secure jobs, they started a Weavers’ Cooperative, then a School and then a Dispensary for their own children and those in the neighborhood. The India Partnership has been helping support this Co-Op as they turn social custom upside down by becoming leaders in their community through the successful school and dispensary services. Weaving has been the mainstay of their income, but markets are disappearing. Personal income is scarce. A “Rebuild the School” Scholarship Fund has recently begun to help keep students at
the school. HAUMC has supported the weavers largely through donations from Hunger Offering, Project 52, Heartwarmers, and purchase of their hand loomed goods. And the India Partnership has been looking for other ways to sustain the Cooperative. The India Partnership linked with Compatible Technology International has applied for and received a grant from Vista Hermosa Foundation, a family enterprise in NW USA. It will fund a potato processing plant on the grounds of the Gandhi Ashram. This chance for new employment is really a Godsend. Potato processing technology is not new and uses simple equipment. Pray for its success as this Gandhi Ashram project begins this first, start-up POTATO year.
— Hank Garwick (HAUMC) and Joy DeHarpporte (Prospect Park UMC) for the India Partnership
Several people have asked about the Children’s Bulletins. Largely, the decision to stop buying the bulletins was based on the fact that children leave sanctuary worship following the children’s sermon, approximately 15 minutes into the service. These bulletins are intended as a way to engage children in the lectionary and are particularly useful during the sermon, when children are likely to disengage from the service. The first part of worship is interactive and engaging and it is appropriate that children participate. There is no doubt that bringing a child to church can be an exercise in aggravation. While we do not want our children to be disruptive or hamper the congregation’s worship, we must remember that baptized children are members of the church. Children learn by doing, so helping them to participate in the liturgy is helping them learn what it means to be part of this Christian community. On the Sundays when there is no Sunday school for children, age-appropriate bulletins that follow the order of worship will be available. these pews available to church members before A PEW FOR YOU! donating them to other organizations or persons. With the Board of Trustees’ planned remodeling There are 22 oak pews: 8’ 3” long. If interested, of the Border Memorial Chapel, the pews in the please contact Chris Jackson in the church office chapel will no longer be used. We want to make at Chris@haumc.org, or 612-435-1308.
WHERE HAVE ALL THE CHILDREN'S BULLETINS GONE?
FAITH IN ACTION IS NOVEMBER TOPIC FOR AD COUNCIL
Church visited Cuba in October as Volunteers in Mission, part of a United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR) project. The group helped to renovate a hallway in the Cuban Methodist The Ministries to the City (local outreach) Committee officially became the Faith in Action Seminary, Havana, and visited several Methodist Team following Administrative Council approval churches and a retirement home. Dunbar also reported on the status of Hennepin Nov. 5. “The needs of the church, as well as Church’s five outreach partnerships, with India, committee members’ time commitment and Haiti, Africa, Russia and UMCOR. The most interest, have changed,” said Kristyn Ebert Johnson, director of outreach and volunteerism, action is happening in India, where Hennepin Church is helping to support a growing school in explaining the change. that now has more than 250 students. The objecAccording to the name-change proposal, the tive is to help the school become self-sustaining. Faith in Action Team wants to engage more Dunbar said that 28 Hennepin Church people Hennepin Church participants in “working with would participate in the annual Volunteers in and serving others through projects in the surMission trip to Sager Brown in Louisiana in rounding community.” Its objectives include January 2010. educating Hennepin Church people on ways In addition, a church member is organizing a they can put their faith into action, and planning Hennepin emergency response team that could and implementing local outreach opportunities help with clean-up efforts from natural and other such as participation in Habitat for Humanity. disasters if needed. A training session for those While they feel it’s important to know what interested will take place this winter. others are doing, group members will spend less meeting time reporting on projects and Ad Council members also heard that: more on making them happen. Creating a • Following the departure of Maria Wiblin, budget, dispersing funds, and deciding what minister of youth and multigenerational ministries to support through hunger offerings ministries, Sonja Parr is coordinating youth and Project 52 will remain part of the team’s ministries. function. • Our annual Church Conference will take In other business, Larry Dunbar, international place Saturday, January 30th at 9:00 AM. outreach chair, Pastor Bruce Robbins and Kristyn Ebert Johnson discussed a recent mission trip to BOBBIE KELLER Cuba. They and eight others from Hennepin given a photo keepsake. For many clients, this party may be the only celebration they attend, and the only place they will receive a gift. There is still time for you to become part of the celebration. You can donate money to purchase a gift certificate for a client; sign up to bring cookies or a salad for the luncheon; help serve food for the event; or provide hospitality to our guests at the event. For questions, contact Ann Carlson Carlsonaj99@msn.com 612-435-1336.
DIGNITY CENTER PLANS A JOYOUS CHRISTMAS PARTY FOR CLIENTS
At noon on December 18 there will be gospel music, a delicious luncheon, holiday gifts and smiles on the faces of Dignity Center clients and volunteers. Each client will receive a $20 gift certificate from Target, thanks to the generosity of Hennepin Church members. Steeple People will provide Christmas mugs stuffed with candy. Photos will be taken and each client will be
SELECTED EVENTS…
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 11 Life Adventures Lunch 12:00 PM SUNDAY, DECEMBER 13 Regular Sunday worship at TUESDAY, DECEMBER 1 8:30, 9:00, 9:30, 11:00 AM Youth Council 6:00 PM Sunday School 9:45 AM India Partnership 6:30 PM Breakfast 10:30 AM Reconciling Committee 6:30 PM Blood Pressure Screening 10:30 AM FAQs LGBTA Fellowship 10:45 AM Faith and Life Group 8:00 PM Spirituality of Parenting 11:00 AM WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 2 Qi Gong 11:00 AM Kjerringsleppets 5:30 PM Sr. High Girls’ Book Club 7:00 PM Praying the Scriptures 11:00 AM Seasons of the Spirit 5:00 PM THURSDAY, DECEMBER 3 First Light Class 5:30 PM Bible Study 11:00 AM MONDAY, DECEMBER 14 Prayer Shawl Meeting 1:30 PM Multi Cultural Committee 7:00 PM Labyrinth Open 3:00 PM TUESDAY, DECEMBER 15 Administrative Council 6:00 PM Science&Faith Roundtable 7:00 PM Children’s Council 6:30 PM Inter/National Outreach 6:30 PM SATURDAY, DECEMBER 5 Faith and Fiction 7:00 PM UMW Christmas Event 9:00 AM Faith and Life Group 8:00 PM Dinner Theater 6:00 PM WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 16 SUNDAY, DECEMBER 6 Steeple People Board 5:30 PM Regular Sunday worship at Food Service Cmte 6:30 PM 8:30, 9:00, 9:30, 11:00 AM Koinonia Board 7:00 PM Quilt Sale 9:00 AM Trustees Meeting 7:00 PM Sunday School 9:45 AM Sr. High Girls’ Book Club 7:00 PM Breakfast 10:30 AM THURSDAY, DECEMBER 17 Spirituality of Parenting 11:00 AM Jan. !nSpire Deadline 10:00 AM Qi Gong 11:00 AM Labyrinth Open 3:00 PM Dinner Theater 11:00 AM Staff Parish Relations 6:00 PM Holiday Baking 4:00 PM Lydia Circle 7:00 PM Community Meals 4:45 PM FRIDAY, DECEMBER 18 Seasons of the Spirit 5:00 PM Dignity Center Client Party 12:00 First Light Class 5:30 PM SUNDAY, DECEMBER 20 MONDAY, DECEMBER 7 Regular Sunday worship at Job Transition Group 7:00 PM 8:30, 9:00, 9:30, 11:00 AM Beginner’s Bible Study 7:00 PM Youth Bake Sale 9:30 AM TUESDAY, DECEMBER 8 Sunday School 9:45 AM Russia Partnership 6:30 PM Breakfast 10:30 AM Finance Committee 7:00 PM Brass, Bronze & Wood 11:00 AM Faith and Life Group 8:00 PM Peace & Justice Forum 11:00 AM WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 9 Seasons of the Spirit 5:00 PM Little Kids, Big Fun 5:30 PM First Light Class 5:30 PM THURSDAY, DECEMBER 10 MONDAY, DECEMBER 21 Joy Circle 9:00 AM Job Transition Group 7:00 PM Senior Council 9:30 AM Beginner’s Bible Study 7:00 PM Bible Study 11:00 AM TUESDAY, DECEMBER 22 Labyrinth Open 3:00 PM Dignity Center Steering 6:30 PM 40 Below Potluck 6:00 PM Adult Nurture 6:30 PM Foundation Board 6:00 PM Faith and Life Group 8:00 PM
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24
Christmas Eve Worship Services
12:00 Noon — Carols & Communion in the Chapel 2:00 PM — Labyrinth, Carols and Poetry in Art Gallery 4:00 PM — Christmas Worship and Pageant in the Sanctuary 5:30 PM — A Service of Remembrance in the Chapel 7:00 PM — Carols & Communion in the Sanctuary 11:00 PM — Carols & Communion in the Sanctuary (with a 10:30 PM Prelude Concert) FRIDAY, DECEMBER 25
Building Closed Christmas Day
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 26
Building Closed
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 27 Regular Sunday worship at 8:30, 9:00, 9:30, 11:00 AM NO Sunday School Seeds of Celebration 10:00 AM MONDAY, DECEMBER 28 Fine Arts Committee 7:00 PM TUESDAY, DECEMBER 29 Faith and Life Group 8:00 PM THURSDAY, DECEMBER 31 Labyrinth 3:00 PM Koinonia Retreat 5:00 PM FRIDAY, JANUARY 1 Koinonia Retreat — All Day SATURDAY, JANUARY 2 Koinonia Retreat: ends in the AM
Send calendar corrections to: Schedule@haumc.org Save the Date: 9:00 AM Jan. 30, for a Church Conference. More information to come. See the Jan. !nSpire and Sunday Spires.
THE NETWORK CHRISTMAS PARTY
then carpool over to A Brave New Workshop for “Bret Favre’s Christmas Spectacular” at 8pm. Have some Christmas fun and meet other United Cost: only $10! RSVP by Dec.10 for the show Methodists in their 20’s and 30’s at The Network and for childcare. Email Leah (Leah@haumc.org) Christmas Party! Potluck at 6-ish at Hennepin, or call the church: 612-871-5303.
BE THERE. BE HOPE. CHRISTMAS OUTREACH OFFERING FOR SUDAN EMERGENCY
Independence from foreign rule came to Sudan in 1956 but for most of the years following it has been at war for complex reasons – economical, political, racial, religious/cultural differences, severe drought and desertification. Over 6 million Sudanese have been internally displaced and a half million fled to other countries.* Some have returned, but many continue to be displaced. UMCOR (United Methodist Committee on Relief), United Methodists’ humanitarian aid agency, has been in Sudan since 2005 to help people uprooted by conflict and struggling with a lack of resources. In its sites in the capitol city of Khartoum, extreme Southern Sudan, and Southern Darfur, UMCOR provides humanitarian aid and serves as model for peace and diplomacy as it works for the good of the whole population through both emergency and long term development projects. It work is described below. • UMCOR staff, teachers, children served participants in skill’s building classes, and community leaders working with UMCOR come from all different tribal and political groups and from all sides of the conflict. • Women, as well as men, serve in the decision making. • Needs of both the displacement camps and their host communities are considered and served. • Food insecurity is alleviated and livelihoods are promoted through sustainable agriculture programs providing seeds and tools, and agronomists to share new technologies.
Schools and supplies for children, training for teachers, and vocational training programs for young adults and women are provided. • Safe water is insured and water points established. • A camp registration process has been established and has become a model for others. • Emergency supplies are distributed to camp residents – plastic sheeting, jerry cans to carry water, blankets… Through Christmas, God offers a gift of hope for a better world. The Hennepin congregation will soon be asked to give their own gift of hope for the uprooted people of Sudan. The Christmas Outreach Offering, dedicated this year for UMCOR use in the Sudan Emergency will assist a struggling people to work toward a better future.
*Statistics from USAid Bureau for Democracy,Conflict, and Humanitarian Assistance (DCHA) May 2008. Internal Displacement Monitoring Centre, Nov. 2007.
•
In the city of Al Daein, blacksmiths forge farming implements that UMCOR is distributing to internally displaced families. Rather than import the tools from somewhere else, UMCOR is supporting the local economy of the region by providing employment to local craftspeople. Credit: Paul Jeffrey/UMCOR
HOLIDAY BAKING (AND EATING) FOR PEOPLE IN THEIR 20’S AND 30’S!
Come enjoy great company, learn how to make delicious desserts, and, of course, eat them! This is a cooking class for people who love to eat and don’t mind learning a few things along the way. (Recipes will be available to take home with you, and perhaps some leftovers too!) Sunday, December 6th at 4:00 PM at the parsonage. Cost is $5/person. Contact Leah for more information: Leah@haumc.org.
QI GONG
Qi Gong (pronounced: Chee Gung) is a form of exercise that works with the energy in the body to support all systems of health and wellness. James Schattauer will be share his journey with Qi Gong and some of the exercises that have been personally effective in building strength, mental acuity and better health. Each session will begin with an easy warm up, followed by a series of simple exercises that will be taught in a certain order so that the participant will be able to take what they learn and establish their own routine at home. Wear comfortable clothing. Dec. 6 & 13, Jan. 10 & 17 at 11:00 AM.
THE SPIRITUALITY OF CHILDREN AND PARENTING
Please join these teachers and parent educators to discuss and share resources on the spiritual nature of children and parenting, how to nurture our children’s spiritual lives, and how to answer their “big” questions, even as we have questions of our own. Take a break in the early days of December to celebrate the joy of the children that grace your lives. Led by Deb Roberts and Kathryn Johnson, Dec. 6 & 13 at 11:00 AM.
PRAYING THE SCRIPTURES OF ADVENT
The scriptures of Advent invite us into an encounter with the One who lives among us, Emmanuel. In the winter of our Minnesota days we are also surrounded by the darkness which holds Mystery and the promise of the everincreasing light. We will use the ancient prayer practice of lectio divina to listen to familiar scriptures in new ways, allowing them to become our prayer for this most holy season. December 13 at 11:00 AM, led by Sally Johnson.
ANNUAL YOUTH HOLIDAY BAKE SALE
On Sundays Dec. 13 and 20, please bring your favorite holiday treats for donation, to be sold at this event. Please package treats so they are ready to be sold, and bring them to the Bake Sale tables in Carlson Hall before 9:30 AM on the morning of the sale. Contact Ellen if you want to help: Ellen-HotLava@comcast.net
WELCOMING THE WILD ONE
Our 2009 Advent Devotionals are in! Thanks to all our contributors! You may pick one up at the church or you may read along each day online at HennepinChurch.org/Advent. Enjoy the “Wild” -ness and Amanda Hunter’s art in this cooperative project!
Hennepin Avenue United Methodist Church
A monthly newsletter of Hennepin Avenue United Methodist Church. Please submit all photos, stories and story ideas to Daniel Pederson at the church, 612-435-1320 or use the on-line form at HennepinChurch.org/share. All items are subject to editing for content and space availability. The January 2010 !nSpire deadline is 10:00 AM, Thursday, Dec. 17.
511 Groveland Avenue, Minneapolis, MN 55403 612-871-5303 HENNEPINCHURCH.ORG
Hennepin Avenue United Methodist Church 511 Groveland Avenue Minneapolis, MN 55403
Nonprofit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Permit No. 2906 Minneapolis, MN
Sunday Worship at Hennepin
DECEMBER 6 - 2nd Sunday in Advent
8:30 AM 9:00 AM 9:30 AM 11:00 AM 8:30 AM 9:00 AM 9:30 AM 11:00 AM 8:30 AM 9:00 AM 9:30 AM 11:00 AM 8:30 AM 9:00 AM 9:30 AM 11:00 AM Communion Sacred Journey Sanctuary-Bruce Robbins, preacher Many Voices-Bruce Robbins, leader Communion Sacred Journey Sanctuary-Leah Rosso, preacher Many Voices-Leah Rosso, leader Communion Sacred Journey Sanctuary-Bruce Robbins, preacher Many Voices-Sally Johnson, leader Communion Sacred Journey Sanctuary-Bruce Robbins, preacher Many Voices-Bruce Robbins, leader
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24 Christmas Eve Services
12:00 Noon Carols, Communion in the Chapel 2:00 PM Labyrinth, Carols, Poetry in the Art Gallery 4:00 PM Christmas Worship and Pageant in the Sanctuary 5:30 PM Service of Remembrance in the Chapel 7:00 PM Carols and Communion in the Sanctuary 11:00 PM Carols and Communion in the Sanctuary (10:30 Prelude Concert)
DECEMBER 13 - 3rd Sunday in Advent
DECEMBER 20 - 4th Sunday in Advent
DECEMBER 27 (NO SUNDAY SCHOOL)
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