Summertime

Joined to the congregation on Memorial Sunday were CHRIS & JANELL B. and their children ALEX & ETHAN. We were blessed to participate in the baptism of Janell, Alex & Ethan. Chris is a Solutions Engineer with Knowledge Tranzfer. Janell is a Household Engineer – AKA stay-at-home mom
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This Sunday, June 3
Nancy Davis preaching:
"THE CHRISTIAN SURVIVAL KIT"
We will share the sacrament of Holy Communion in the sanctuary.
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June 10, Bruce: "UNDERWATER JESUS: The Pirates Sermon"
June 17, Bruce: "GRADUATION DAY: The Father’s Day Sermon"
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We had a great day of worship on Sunday. Nancy’s message clearly touched hearts and the music was terrific. We’re into summertime, now. I’ve never quite understood why attendance goes down in the summer. Yes, I know, there are vacations, but, on the other hand, you’d think with the kiddies out of school it would actually make it easier for families to get to church. Please be aware that St. Andrew’s UMC doesn’t take the summer off. In the next paragraph, you’ll see a note from Netta about Summer Sunday School. We have ramped up what is offered in the Children’s Sunday School this summer, as opposed to a year ago, though we’re only running classes in the 9:15 hour. Please know that Nancy and I will be bringing material into the pulpit that is important to us, and that we’re excited to share. This is encouraging: Diana Faust tells me we have excellent signups for our summer classes. And this is very important: You’ll have new people moving into your neighborhood and your workplace. Some of these will be new to Omaha. Please tell them about St. Andrew’s. If you’ll provide contact information, I’ll be happy to call or e-mail them myself. And as you see people you don’t recognize on Sunday morning, please be quick to extend a smile and handshake, as we communicate RADICAL HOSPITALITY. One more thing: Your very presence here in the summertime communicates a certain energy that will make the church more inviting to any and all who are looking for a new church home, and to others who maybe haven’t been around St. Andrew’s for a while, but have heard that good things are happening and are coming to give us another look.
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ATTENTION PARENTS! The following is from NETTA P.:
Reminder, Summer Sunday School begins this Sunday. Preschool – Kindergarten are in LL2 and 1st-4th grades are in LL4.
If you purchased food for VBS, please have them delivered to the church in the next two weeks. Thanks!
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SOFTBALL
The Men’s Teams resume play this Sunday, June 3, in games starting at 6:00.
The Co-Ed Team takes a one game winning streak into a 6:30 game on Monday, June 4. All games are played at the Kelly Fields. The Co-Ed Team is on Field 5; the Men’s Teams play on Fields #3 & 4.
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PASTOR CHARLOTTE asks: Prayers of joy for Katie W. and Walker Z., who were united in marriage recently. Prayers for Susan H., preparing for surgery on June 7th. Prayers for Nancy M., hospitalized due to an auto accident (sister of Susan H.). Prayers for Bob M., preparing for open heart surgery on May 31st (brother-in-law of Susan H.). Prayers of sympathy for the family and friends of Erin K., in her recent passing (friend of David W.). Prayers for Patti M., who is on hospice care; pray, also, for her husband, her 3 young daughters and other family members, that God may grant strength, understanding and comfort (sister-in-law of Lynn C.). Prayers for G.G. T., hospitalized (mother of Ginny H.).
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And I would add a word of personal loss at the passing of FLORENCE S. We were blessed to receive Florence and her husband J. Greg S. into the congregation last year. J. Greg and the family will be up here for a memorial service in the chapel today at 5:00. These are wonderful people.
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Psalm 119:57-60, "The Lord is my portion; I promise to keep your words. I implore your favor with all my heart; be gracious to me according to your promise. When I think of your ways, I turn my feet to your decrees; I hurry and do not delay to keep your commandments."
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BRD

LOST

MEMORIAL SUNDAY
May 27, 2007
Nancy Davis preaching: “HEROES”
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From Children’s Director NETTA P.: “Pirates of the Galilean” Vacation Bible School is filling up quickly in the morning. If you are still planning to register your child for the morning session, please do so within the week. For safety reasons, we may have to put a cap on our capacity; however there is always the evening sessions available.
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This years SCHOLARSHIP WINNERS were announced at the worship services of May 20. They are:
Amanda S.- Bea Shannon Memorial Scholarship
Heather R.-F.- Alan J. Bruner Memorial Scholarship
John E.- Alan J. Bruner Continuing Education Memorial Scholarship
Congrats to all recipients!
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Habitat for Humanity Breakfast & Volunteer Needs
Please join us for a Pancake Breakfast Sunday June 10th after worship.
St. Andrew's Habitat effort, is looking for assistance with: volunteer labor, financial contributions, and assistance with the upcoming pancake breakfast. Please contact Jim M. St. Andrew’s coordinator.
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I’ve received a lot of affirmation about “#42: The Faith Of Jackie Robinson.” The manuscript is posted on our web site: www.standrewsomaha.net Once you’re at the home page, click on Sermons. What you won’t get, alas, is the great story we heard from WILLIE PASCHALL of his family’s relationship with Jackie Robinson.
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Nancy keeps up with two television shows: “24” & “Lost.” “24” requires a certain suspension of disbelief, of course, but this season’s plot holes were so deep you could fly a black helicopter into them. And does anyone out there have any idea what the ending of “Lost” was about?
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PASTOR CHARLOTTE M. asks: Prayers for Don G., preparing for surgery on May 29th. Prayers of sympathy for all who have lost loved ones while serving in the military. Prayers for all who are serving in harm’s way; pray for sustaining strength, grace and their safety.
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II Samuel 1:23-25, words of David: “Saul and Jonathan, beloved and lovely! In life and in death they were not divided; they were swifter than eagles, they were stronger than lions. O daughters of Israel, weep over Saul, who clothed you with crimson in luxury, who put ornaments of gold on your apparel. How the might have fallen in the midst of battle!”
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BRD

Lots of Things

MEMORIAL SUNDAY
May 27, 2007
Nancy preaching: “HEROES”
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BOB D. writes: The PIE SOCIAL was a huge success! I want to thank the congregation for their support. I hope everyone enjoyed some pie and fellowship. The proceeds from this event will go to help fund this year’s senior high mission trip to Boonville, Arkansas. The youth did a wonderful job working hard slicing pies, scooping ice cream, and advertising. A special thanks to all who donated pies and to the parents who worked behind the scenes to make the pie social a success. Thank you and God Bless!
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We inadvertently left the name of SCOTT T. off our list of graduating seniors.
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We had a worship count on Sunday of 747 with another 113 kiddies in the church school, concurrent with the worship services.
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As most of our readers surely know by now, we have entered a covenant with the community of SAN ANDRES in rural Nicaragua, through the Rainbow Network, based in Springfield, Missouri. We have committed $20,000 a year for three years, which will underwrite health care, education, community development and nutrition programs in the village. We officially launched this ministry in March; to date, we have received $14,363. The first year is off to a great start! For more information, please go to our web site: www.standrewsomaha.net; at the home page, hit the San Andres link. The more you know about this ministry, the more you’re going to like it. There have been many inquiries as to when we’ll be taking another group down. I plan on going back sometime after the first of the year. February often works well. There may be other opportunities between now and then, but that’s when I’ll be going.
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Congratulations to the CO-ED SOFTBALL TEAM who on Monday night notched the first win of the St. Andrew’s Softball season. CAMI P. scored the winning run as our guys and gals came back from an eight run deficit. On the Men’s side, THE RAMMERS suffered their second straight week of last inning heartache. THE SCHUCKERS didn’t experience such suspense—which translates to We Lost Big. The teams are not scheduled on Memorial Weekend. The Men are back in action on June 3, both teams playing at 6:00. The Co-Ed team goes for two in a row on Monday night, June 4, in a 6:30 start.
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From NETTA P.:
Do you like to paint? Do you like to work with wood? VBS Decorating Team needs your help! Please e-mail Wendy L. Come help make a difference in a child’s life!

Attention Youth: Would you like to help out with some of the Sunday School Classes during the summer? We would love to have you come and mentor our children. Please contact Margie.

SUMMER SUNDAY SCHOOL begins June 3. We will be offering Sunday School during the 9:15 hour only. Preschool-Kind will meet in LL1 and 1st – 4th grades will be in LL4. We still need a few more teachers to help a couple of Sundays. Please sign up with Margie at mwufkuhle@standrewsomaha.net. Thanks to all who have stepped up to give our committed teachers a well-deserved break for the summer!
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RELAY FOR LIFE: You are invited to join the St. Andrew’s BLT (Boomers Laughing Together) group for the American Cancer Society Relay for Life to be held June 9th at Millard West High School. You don’t have to be a BLT to know someone that has been affected by cancer in some way – either a family member or friend. The Relay for Life is an opportunity to remember those lost to cancer and celebrate those who have survived cancer. It is also a chance to work together toward a cancer-free future. For more information and to sign up, please see the BLT board in the Rotunda where you will find packets and luminaries --- OR contact Larry & Debi L. or Joyce C.
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PEARL FOOD PANTRY: With gas prices at near record highs and rising it is taking a bite out of all of our wallets, especially those in the inner city. You can help by donating non perishable food items as well as laundry detergent, diapers and personal hygiene items to the Pearl Food Pantry. Just look for the grocery cart in the narthex. Thank you for your care and support. Any questions call Lynda A.
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From DIANA F.:

ADULT SUMMER CLASSES: Stop by the Welcome Table in the Rotunda and pick up the new Adult Summer Class brochure. You will find a how-to use the Bible study called Bible 101, a couple women’s studies – one offered in the morning and one in the evening, and a book study. If you are interested in starting a new group, please contact Diana and we can make it happen.

SINGLES AND FINANCES: Shawn M., a Financial Advisor from Waddell & Reed, will be presenting to the St. Andrew’s Singles on Tuesday May 29th at 7:00pm. Shawn will be sharing information concerning budgeting, debt management, retirement planning, and the psychology of spending.This group will be meeting in Lower Level 5.
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LEON A. tells us: THE YOUTH PRAISE BAND HAS ENDED THEIR PERFORMANCES FOR THIS YEAR AND WILL TAKE THE SUMMER OFF. THE YOUTH PRAISE BAND WILL RESUME ON THE FIRST SUNDAY OF SEPTEMBER WITH PRACTICES BEGINNING OF THE FIRST WEDNESDAY IN AUGUST. PRACTICE TIMES ARE 8:00 TO 8:45 IN THE FAMILY LIFE CENTER. IF ANYONE HAS CHILDREN FROM 6 TO 12TH GRADE AND HAS AN INTEREST IN YOUTH PRAISE BAND, NOTIFY LEON BY EMAIL. THE ONLY REQUIREMENT THAT IS NEEDED TO PARTICIPATE IS THAT YOU MUST HAVE COMPLETED A YEAR BEGINNING BAND CLASS AT THEIR SCHOOL, OR A YEAR OF PRIVATE LESSONS OF THEIR INSTRUMENT.
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JOYCE M. writes: A dash of Disney, a mix of John Williams, Blend with a few more selections, and you have: A Recipe for a Handbell Concert. Presented by: Ambassador Handbell Choir and Ambassador Youth Handbell Choir. Sunday June 3rd at 3:00 p.m. St. Andrew's United Methodist Church. Special Guest Performance by Marty Gelenter on Bari-Sax. Several members of both choirs are members of St. Andrew's so we would invite everyone to come and enjoy this concert. We will be ringing with six octaves of bells and chimes.
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PASTOR CHARLOTTE asks: Prayers for Melissa S., experiencing health issues (daughter of Kit and Steve S.). Prayers of sympathy for the family of Dick O., in his recent passing (father of Gail R.). Prayers for Susan B., recovering from surgery.
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Proverbs 2:20-22: Therefore walk in the way of the good, and keep to the paths of the just. For the upright will abide in the land, and the innocent will remain in it; but the wicked will be cut off from the land, and the treacherous will be rooted out of it.
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BRD

Jackie Robinson

THIS SUNDAY
May 20, 2007
8:00, 9:15 & 10:45
Bruce preaching: “#42: THE FAITH OF JACKIE ROBINSON”
Featuring a personal remembrance by WILLIE PASCHALL
And the world debut of the original song:
“The Devil Struck Me Out, But Jesus said, You’re Safe!”
It is also GRADUATE RECOGNITION SUNDAY.
The Youth will be sponsoring a PIE SOCIAL in the Family Life Center, with proceeds going to the Senior High Mission Trip.
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CONGRATULATIONS OF OUR 2007 HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATES:
Jacqueline A., Alexander B., Steven B., Kimberly B., Molly G., Emily H., Spencer H., Jillian H., Darrica H., Chris K., Tyler K.,Nick L., Sean M., Megan M., Elizabeth N., Shobana R., Eric R., Katherine R., Heather R.-F., Kayla S., Amanda S., Kristine S., Mitchell W., Jennifer W.
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It was good to see ADAM B. in church on Sunday. Adam’s mom, Carrie, tells us: He is stationed in Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii and awaiting redeployment to Iraq. They don't have a set date, yet. This troop buildup has put everything in flux. (He's a Corporal in the Marines.)
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Relocation Blues (continued): MICHELLE J. is moving to Minnesota. Michelle has one of my favorite vocal collaborators, featured on such songs as “Power In The Blood” and “Ball And Chain.”
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The Heartland Night of Celebration for the Luis Palau Festival is June 3rd from 6:30-8:00 PM at the Creighton Soccer Stadium! The Body of Christ will be worshipping and praying together! If you are interested in being a part of the Heartland wide choir please call 330-5724 #3392 or e-mail amadams@trinityomaha.com. We’d like all the counselors and volunteers for the Festival to attend. We’ll be praying for you during the evening! Let’s fill the Stadium for this first time ever, history making event and celebrate what God is going to do in the Heartland!
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SOFTBALL
Sunday, May 20, both the Rammers and the Shuckers play at 8:00, Kelly Fields 3 & 4
Monday, May 21, the Co-Ed team has a 9:30 start at Kelly #5
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NETTA P. writes: Reminder this is the last week to get your children registered for VBS under the early bird fees. You can download a form or stop by the office. Sunday, May 20 all forms and payment need to be in to catch the early fees. Thanks! Also, still need lots of volunteers. You can also download that form as well!

PASTOR CHARLOTTE asks: Prayers of sympathy for the family of Fred S., in his recent passing (father of Mike S.).
Prayers for Dee H., preparing for cataract surgery on May 21st.
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Matthew 5:38-41
“You have heard that it was said, ‘An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.’ But I say to you, Do not resist an evildoer. But if anyone strikes you on the right cheek, turn the other also; and if anyone wants to sue you and take your coat, give your cloak as well; and if anyone forces you to go one mile, go also the second mile.”
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BRD

The Devil Struck Me Out

THIS SUNDAY
May 20, 2007
8:00, 9:15 & 10:45
Bruce preaching: “#42: THE FAITH OF JACKIE ROBINSON”
Featuring a personal remembrance by WILLIE PASCHALL
And the world debut of the original song: “The Devil Struck Me Out, But Jesus said, You’re Safe!”
It is also GRADUATE RECOGNITION SUNDAY.
The Youth will be sponsoring a PIE SOCIAL in the Family Life Center, with proceeds going to the Senior High Mission Trip.
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We welcomed two new families on Sunday, baptizing two precious children.
They are: ROBERT & AMBER D. We baptized their daughter, Eva.
STEVE & EMILY M. We baptized their daughter Madelyn Grace.
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Can you help me with something? With a granddaughter due to be born in France this summer, I’m looking at another transatlantic trip. The airfares are ferocious. I’m wondering about trying this Priceline option, something I’ve never used before. How does that work? If I put in a bid for an airfare that’s accepted, but they give me a weird route and time frame, am I just stuck?
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We had 773 people in church on Sunday, with another 168 kiddies in the church school.
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BOB D. writes: Attention all pie makers! We need your pies for the pie social on May 20th. The pie social will take place after all three services in the Family Life Center. Please contact Bob if you would like to donate a pie and thank you to those who have already responded! All proceeds will go to the Senior High Mission Trip.
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PAM F. tells us: The Ladies Ensemble would like to invite all ladies of St. Andrew's to join us. We are moving our rehearsals to Wednesday evenings from 5:15-6 p.m., in the sanctuary. We will start learning new music this Wednesday, May 16th, so it would be a perfect time to join us.
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MARGIE W. says: We are in need of 1-2 adult nursery volunteers for the 10:45 hour. We have an immediate need for volunteers beginning Sunday, May 20th. For June 3rd, we need an additional adult volunteer for the 9:00 and 10:45 hour as our regular teachers will be out of
town. For June 3, 10 and 17, we need another youth volunteer as well since our regular youth volunteer will be unavailable. Please contact Margie W.
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We received the following from TERI Q.:
I have a friend who is hosting a table at the Women's Luncheon with Luis Palau on Tuesday, July 10th, 2007. She invited me, and asked me to invite any other women who might be interested in attending. It will be held at the Mid-America Center in the main ballroom, and it goes from 12:00-1:30 PM. It's an outreach luncheon/fundraiser for the Luis Palau ministry, and the donation is $25.00 per person. Carol Schrader is the Emcee, the Welcome will be given by the First Lady of Nebraska, Sally Ganam, wife of Governor Dave Heineman, Special Guest is Karen Kangas Dwyer, PhD, and the Keynote speaker will be Luis Palau. Would you please put something in your next A-Mail to invite any women who are interested in attending this luncheon? This is another fun and interesting way we at St. Andrews can support the Luis Palau ministry. Thanks so much!
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FROM PASTOR CHARLOTTE: CONGRATULATIONS to those who have completed CPR & AED training: Ryan B., Allie B., Jay B., Sheila C., Bob D., Heather D., Julie H., Deb N., Kevin N., Joeni P., Jane P., Mike P., Netta P., Clark S., and Margie W.. Thank you for giving of your time to help make St. Andrew’s a safer place. YOU ARE APPRECIATED!
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We extend our sympathy to MICHAEL & LAURIE S. at the death of Mike’s father, FRED S.. A memorial service will be held here on Thursday at 11:00.
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Psalm 138:1-3, I give you thanks, O Lord, with my whole heart; before the gods I sing your praise; I bow down toward your holy temple and give thanks to your name for your steadfast love and your faithfulness; for you have exalted your name and your word above everything. On the day I called, you answered me, you increased my strength of soul.
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BRD

Aardvarks

THIS SUNDAY IS MOTHER’S DAY
Nancy is preaching, “THE STORY OF HANNAH.”
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Our next PIZZA WITH THE PASTORS is a week from Sunday, the 20th of May, 5:00-6:30. PWP is one of my favorite experiences of the month, as it gives myself and others of the staff an opportunity to get to know some of the great people who have been visiting St. Andrew’s and may be considering membership in the congregation. If you fall into that category, please consider attending the May session of PIZZA WITH THE PASTORS. You can sign up in the Rotunda or respond via return e-mail.
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“LES MISERABLES: THE SERMON” is scheduled for Sunday, Sept. 9. We’ll need a cast of dozens to make this work. The first general practice is Wednesday evening, June 27, 7:00. We are currently auditioning for lead roles. If you are interested in one of these, please let the director (that’s me) know and we’ll schedule a time.
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Having lived in Omaha a year-and-half, Nancy and I finally visited the zoo, yesterday—and it was as delightful as everyone said it would be. I don’t think I’d ever seen an actual aardvark before.
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ALL OF THE CHILDREN’S CHOIRS ARE NOW ON SUMMER BREAK. THEY WILL RESUME PRACTICE IN THE FALL.
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After getting rained out last week, the St. Andrew’s softball teams are looking forward to getting back on the field. The Men’s Teams play Sunday evening, both games starting at 7:00, on Kelly Fields #3 & 4. The Co-Ed Team plays Monday evening, 7:30, Kelly #5.
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NETTA P. writes: Do you want to help with VBS but limited to work or have other duties? We have a job for you. The decorating team needs things to be cut up. This can be done on your schedule in your home! Please contact Netta at npollock@standrewsomaha.net. We need cutters! You can pick up the things to be cut after Monday, May 14.
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PASTOR CHARLOTTE asks: A prayer of sympathy for the family of Scott W., in his recent passing. He is a friend of Andy and Courtney B.. Prayers of sympathy for the family and friends of 23 year old Matthew O., Siloam Springs, AR, in his recent passing (nephew of Dr. Christine W.; cousin of Steven B.). Prayers for Denise J., preparing for surgery on May 23rd.
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Psalm 20:1-4, The Lord answer you in the day of trouble! The name of the God of Jacob protect you! May he send you help from the sanctuary, and give you support from Zion. May he remember all your offerings, and regard with favor your burnt sacrifices. May he grant your hearts desire, and fulfill all your plans.
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BRD

The Song of Hannah

THIS SUNDAY MOTHER’S DAY
Nancy preaching, “THE SONG OF HANNAH”
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Even as Nancy is getting ready for Mother’s Day, I’m excited about “#42: The Faith Of Jackie Robinson.” I’ll be incorporating material from a Robinson biography I read a couple of years ago; I’d forgotten how compelling the material is, particularly regarding the faith Robinson received from his mother through the Black Church experience and the guiding hand of a young pastor named Karl Downs.
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I know the St. Andrew’s web site (www.standrewsomaha.net) gets quite a bit of traffic. How come, then, when I plug OMAHA UNITED METHODIST CHURCHES into my search engine, we show up so far down the list? I thought “hits” had something to do with it. Any ideas?
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BOB DAVIS writes: 5th and 6th grade summer Sunday school teachers needed for June, July, and August. Please e-mail Bob to help. (His email is located on the main church site under staff.)
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From DIANA F.:
BIBLE 101: This study will provide you with a simple, practical guide to using the Bible by helping you learn how to locate references, find information on topics of interest, and help you begin a productive personal Bible study plan. Diana will facilitate this study beginning June 5th for four weeks at 7 p.m.
TWO BETH MOORE STUDIES THIS SUMMER: An evening Beth Moore Study will be offered on Wednesday evenings beginning June 6 at 7 p.m. Julie T. will facilitate the study Living Beyond Yourself: Fruit of the Spirit. A daytime class will be offered on Wednesday mornings at 9:30. Gloria B. will be facilitating the study Daniel: Lives of Integrity, Words of Prophecy. Contact Diana to register for either of these classes.
SINGLES AND FINANCE: Shawn Macken, a Financial Advisor from Waddell & Reed, will be presenting to the St. Andrew’s Singles on Tuesday May 29th at 7:00 pm. Shawn will be sharing information concerning budgeting, debt management, retirement planning, and the psychology of spending.
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PASTOR CHARLOTT asks: Prayers of sympathy for the family of Wade K., in his recent passing (Gary K.’s father). Prayers for Teagan H., preparing for eye surgery on May 15th (grandson of Diana and Harlan F.).
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Isaiah 42:1-4, "Here is my servant, whom I uphold, my chosen, in whom my soul delights; I have put my spirit upon him; he will bring forth justice to the nations. He will not cry or lift up his voice, or make it heard in the street; a bruised reed he will not break, and a dimly burning wick he will not quench; he will faithfully bring forth justice. He will not grow faint or be crushed until he has established justice in the earth; and the coastlands wait for his teaching."
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BRD

LURCH

THIS SUNDAY
Mother’s Day
NANCY PREACHING: “THE STORY OF HANNAH”
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Our newest members are:
CINDY R. Cindy is a bookkeeper at R & G Service Center. We were blessed to participate in Cindy’s baptism.
TOM & SERINA H. Tom is a physical scientist at the VA Med Center.
Both are Revenue Agents with the IRS
DON & DORIS C. Don and Doris are brother and sister. Both are retired.
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Also Baptized Sunday:
JOSEPHINE KATHRYN F., daughter of Jason and Andrea Fink.
BEAU GAVIN T., son of Steven & Gretchen Twohig.
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It was good to see AMY S., home on leave from the military. Amy is currently stationed at Andrews Air Force Base.
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“SABBATH NIGHT LIVE” was a blast. Major congratulations to the Reckless Abandon Players. You’ll surely see at least one of those skits reprised on a Sunday morning this summer.

One of the stars of SNL ’07 was Todd S.--MAJOR Todd S., actually. Todd played roles ranging from Lurch to Pharaoh. The Air Force is relocating Todd and Liza and their family to Rhode Island. As far as I’m concerned, we’ve got entirely too much relocating going on. Bob and Penny F. and their family are moving to Minnesota later this summer. Chris and Patti H. and their crew are moving to North Carolina. Steve and Sherry R. are moving to Houston. These are GREAT people who will be sorely missed.

I remember when Todd and Liza joined the church just over a year ago. Todd forewarned me they would certainly be moving at some point. I told him it comes with the territory, part and parcel of the very mobile times in which we live. As I encouraged them to join the church, so I say the same to you: we love to have people join the congregation and plug into our ministries, however long or not-so-long you may think you’ll be here.

I received an e-mail from one of our newest members a week or so ago, sharing some of his church history, inviting us to put him to work here. I love getting that kind of correspondence We’re going to need people to step up and help fill some of the holes about to be created here. I think, for instance, of our choir. Bob F. and Todd S. have both been regulars and we’re going to need some new guys to step up this fall. (New gals will be welcome too, of course.) Penny F. has been one of our mission leaders; Patti H. has been a leader in the United Methodist Women; and Steve R. has been one of the few people up here I can talk with about Cardinals baseball. While we’ll miss them all terribly, it’s kind of exciting to think that there are people reading this epistle who have the gifts and graces to step in and not only fill the gaps, but create new possibilities. And this is cool: I see lots of our newest families already stepping up and serving, from youth ministries to welcoming ministries. This is great.

Now, please pay attention, because this is particularly important: Even as some of our families are leaving Omaha, others will be moving to our city. As they are looking for new church homes from Texas to Rhode Island, people who we don’t know yet will be moving in to Omaha, looking for a new church home. A lot of church-shopping happens in the summer. When you see someone you don’t know, make it a point to practice “Radical Hospitality,” with a warm smile and a hand of welcome. You may just be welcoming future leaders of the congregation.

Finally, as you see new people moving into your neighborhood or work place, if you can get me the contact information, I’ll be happy to call them myself, inviting them to St. Andrew’s. Of course, I encourage you to offer such invitation. Remember, by one account, the famous Simon Peter was first introduced to Jesus by his brother Andrew—for whom this church is named. Andrew was an inviter; let’s follow his example.
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Pastor Charlotte asks: Prayers for Willis B., hospitalized with a broken hip, due to a fall (father of Susan B.). Prayers of sympathy for the family and friends of JaVee S., in her recent passing (friend of Judy & Dave S. and Wade & Christine B.). Prayers of sympathy for the family of Robert M., in his recent passing (father of Carol M.). Prayers of joy for Jason & Michelle S., in the recent birth of a son, Collin Michael (grandson of Karen and Don E.). Prayers of joy for Jessica M. and Casey H., in their recent marriage.
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BRD

SNL

This is going to be a memorable weekend. I’ve got a wedding rehearsal tonight, followed by opening night of Sabbath Night Live; a wedding tomorrow night, followed by closing night of Sabbath Night Live. SNL is going to be terrific; I just hope I can remember my lines. Then, of course, we have SABBATH MORNING LIVE. I’ve enjoyed working with “O Be Careful.” I like this sermon a lot. We’ll be debuting a new arrangement of the old song at the end of the 9:15 & 10:45 services. Please know your presence in our worship will be a blessing to all who are there.
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Speaking of “O Be Careful,” my St. Louis Cardinals have been rocked by the untimely death of one of their relief pitchers. While the toxicology reports are not yet back, the St. Louis media seems certain that alcohol was a contributing factor. Life is perilous enough when we’re sober, friends. Be careful.
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BOB DAVIS writes:
On May 20th the Senior High will be hosting a Pie Social fundraiser for the 2007 mission trip. Pies will be for sale (to go) by the slice or the whole pie in the Rotunda. We will also offer pie, coffee, and ice cream in the Family Life Center. We will need several HOMEMADE pies. If you are interested in donating one of your pies to the senior high fundraiser please e-mail Bob. Thank you!
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Looking at prices at the pump, I thought maybe I’d missed a hurricane or terrorist attack. So I Googled “Gasoline Prices,” and came upon an interesting article by Reuters News Service, “Who’s Driving Up Gasoline Prices?” posted yesterday in the Canada.com Financial Post. I thought it was interesting; you might, too.
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The Men’s Softball Teams are scheduled to play on Sunday evening, 8:00, Kelly Fields #3 & 4. The Co-Ed Team has an 8:30 start on Monday evening, Kelly Field #5. The Kelly Fields are at 122nd and Fort.
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Pastor Charlotte asks: Prayers for Sheila B., recovering from a broken heel. Prayers of sympathy for the family and friends of Pearl O., in her recent passing (friend of Pastor Charlotte). Prayers for Willis B., hospitalized with a broken hip, due to a fall (father of Susan B.).
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Psalm 119:97-105: I hold back my feet from every evil way, in order to keep your word. I do not turn away from your rules, for you have taught me. How sweet are your words to my taste, sweeter than honey to my mouth! Through your principals I get understanding; therefore I hate every false way. Your word is a lamp unto my feet and a light to my path.
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BRD

EINSTEIN

THIS SUNDAY
May 6, 2007
8:00, 9:15 & 10:45
Bruce Davis preaching a sermon ripped from today’s headlines:
“O BE CAREFUL”
We’ll be offering the sacrament of communion in all three services. The St. Andrew’s Singers will be joined by the Youth Choir at 9:15 & 10:45. Please consider inviting someone to attend with you, or maybe just forward this A-Mail their way!
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I see the new biography, “EINSTEIN” is at the top of the best-seller list. I’ve passed through quantum particles and General Relativity and am just now to “spooky action at a distance,” putting me about 75 pages from the end. The neat thing about “EINSTEIN” is that since hardly anyone understands theoretical physics to begin with, you can skim some of this material without guilt and still enjoy a wonderful written story of a fascinating, complex life. (Do spend some time, though, with Einstein’s “thought pictures,” which makes some of the ideas at least semi-accessible to the non-scientist.) The profound religious implications of Einstein’s work will surely show up in a sermon between now and the end of the year.
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NOTE FROM NANCY – JUST WANTED TO LET YOUTH PARENTS KNOW THAT I HAVE CHANGED MY MIND ABOUT MOVING CONFIRMATION TO SIXTH GRADE. I WOULD LIKE TO DO THIS BUT I WOULD HAVE TO PLAY “CATCH-UP” FOR THE NEXT TWO YEARS BY TEACHING CONFIRMATION TO TWO CLASSES AT THE SAME TIME. WE ARE SO BLESSED TO HAVE SO MANY YOUTH THAT A CLASS LIKE THAT WOULD SIMPLY BE TOO LARGE – AND ALSO BECAUSE WE REALLY DON’T HAVE A ROOM TO ACCOMMODATE ALL THOSE KIDS IN THE WAY I WOULD LIKE. SO WE’LL KEEP CONFIRMATION AT THE EIGHTH GRADE FOR NOW. THE CLASS THIS YEAR WAS JUST DELIGHTFUL AND I AM LOOKING FORWARD TO NEXT YEAR. THANKS TO THE MENTORS AND PARENTS AND TO BOB AND BRUCE FOR THEIR HELP!
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THE DATE OF THE 2007 DINNER/DANCE/AUCTION HAS BEEN SET FOR FRIDAY EVENING, NOVEMBER 16, CHAMPIONS COUNTRY CLUB.
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NETTA P. writes: We are looking for interested people to provide child care on Monday and Wed mornings and some Mon, Tues, or Wed. evenings for parents who wish to attend Bible Studies. These candidates need to be an adult and can bring their child with them to work! You would be on a team of providers and we would set schedules according to what works best for you. If interested, please contact Netta P. with an attached references and resume if have one. A background check will be required and the pay is $10.00 per hour.
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MARGIE W. reports for the COED SOFTBALL TEAM.
Monday night our team lost to a fantastic team who has been playing together for 7 years! We had a great turn out and lots of fun! Next game is Monday, May 7th @ 8:30. All our games will be at Kelley field #5.
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PASTOR CHARLOTTE asks: Prayers for Stacy W., experiencing a pinched nerve in her back. Prayers for Dwayne H., recovering from a stroke (grandfather of Christina Q.).
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James 3:5-10
How great a forest is set ablaze by a small fire! And the tongue is a fire. The tongue is placed among our members as a world of iniquity; it stains the whole body, sets on fire the cycle of nature, and is itself set on fire by hell. For every species of beast and bird, of reptile and sea creature, can be tamed and has been tamed by the human species, but no one can tame the tongue—a restless evil full of deadly poison. With it we bless the Lord and Father, and with it we curse those who are made from the likeness of God. From the same mouth come blessing and cursing. My brothers and sisters this ought not to be so.
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BRD