Youth Ministries

Design Team

Fri, 5 Sep 2008 17:50:45 -0700

We’re designing something new in our youth and family ministry, just like we did on our summer mission trip to AMOR in Tijuana. What we built there was still a home but it didn’t look anything like the ones we had built before. Starting in September 2008, a select group of parents, adult leaders and youth will do the same with our ministry right here at FUMCO. We’ll consider where we are, where we want to go and “design” a vision to help us get there. We’ll begin with our FUMCO mission statement, “a place to experience the transforming love of Christ” and ask ourselves if what we are doing is moving us that direction.

Our new interim senior pastor will be part of our team along with our conference coordinator, Patrick Scriven. Additionally, we’ll receive consultation from the Director of Youth Ministries for the General Board of Discipleship, Susan Hay and the Associate General Secretary of the Division on Ministries with Young People, Rev. Mike Ratliff.

The DESIGN TEAM has been selected and will report their findings to the Youth Council as they create our new VISION.

Watch for more details!

Cross Training Posse (Junior High Confirmation

Tue, 11 Dec 2007 23:33:59 -0800

Get to the Point Jesus
Most people think CONFIRMATION is all about learning information, one hour a Sunday and then graduating at the end of the year. You know, sort of like school. Perhaps there is more.

In Matthew 22: 34-46, we read about a lawyer, and a Pharisee to boot, who once tried to test Jesus so he asked him to sum it all up. Get to the point. Which commandment is the greatest? Jesus summed it all up for him and us: Love God, your neighbor and yourself. Now it is your turn.

Sum up in two words or less what it means to "love God, your neighbor and yourself." I'll help. Try this. "LOVING RELATIONSHIPS." That's what it is all about.

Information is a part of the picture, but the KEY is "LOVING RELATIONSHIPS." On Sunday mornings, we talk about how we hope to build those "loving relationships." Just as you learn the disciplines of music, athletics, the sciences or the arts, we want to help you learn the disciplines of the spirit and love. Those are pretty important, too, especially in this post 9.11 world. Learning to love one another has never been more important.

Parents! We Succeed and Fail Together
There is a lot of research out there that confirms one thing: you are the primary Christian educator for your sons and daughters. As the director of youth and family ministry, Tim’s job is to work together with you to help your youth embrace the lifestyle of Christ. We are in this together!

Check back here later for more breaking news!

BELONGING COMES BEFORE BELIEVING
Developing a lasting a faith comes only AFTER belonging to a community of friends in Christ. The games and fun things we do, make a HUGE difference in moving us from "belonging" to "believing."

MAKEUP-- Is It Possible?
While we try to follow up on previous work each time we gather, sometimes Tim will need to schedule a personal time for makeup. Still, remember that BELONGING COMES BEFORE BELIEVING. There really is no way to make up the community we build each time we gather, and it is that community that always comes before believing!

PARENTS: WHAT ARE YOUR GOALS?
Below you will find the main curriculum we are using. What topics would you like to help lead? Which themes are most important to you?

Claim the NAME Curriculum

Our Community of Faith
    1. Beginning the Journey
    2. What is confirmation?
    3. What is a Christian? What is the Church?
    4. Preparing for the Covenant Service

Our History and Heritage
    5.   Our Jewish Heritage
    6.   The Church's History
    7.   Our Common Heritage With All Christians
    8.   Our Protestant Heritage
    9.   Our United Methodist Heritage
    10.   Our Heritage As a Local Congregation

Our Life Together
    11.   United Methodist Talk Funny
    12   About Worship
    13.   Our Hymnal
    14.   Holy Communion
    15.   Baptism and Confirmation
    16. The Social Principles
    17.   Mission and Outreach: Called Into the World

Our Beliefs
    18   Faith: To Trust, To Believe, To Commit
    19.   How United Methodists Approach Belief
    20.   The Bible: The Book for Christians
    21.   The Bible: Our Guide to Belief and Life
    22.   The Bible: A Tool of Faith
    23.   Who Is The God We Worship?
    24.   Let Us Pray: Talking With God
    25.   Let Us Pray: Listening to God
    26.   In the Image of God
    27.   What Is Sin?
    28.   Who Is Jesus, and What Did He Do?
    29.   What Is Salvation?
    30.   Who Is the Holy Spirit?
    31.   The End of the World and Life After Death
    32.   Our Historical Beliefs: The Creeds

Our Response
    33.   I Choose Jesus Christ
    34.   I Choose to Live as a Christian
    35.   I Choose Life in the Spirit

Our Decision
    36.   The Call to Christian Discipleship
    37.   The Vows of Confirmation
    38.   Our Decision to Claim the Name
    39. New Life in Christ

Welcome & Tim’s Time

Thu, 8 Nov 2007 09:59:16 -0800

Welcome to our New Public FUMCO Site
It’s a work in progress but we’re excited about getting it up and running! Thanks, Dale! During the month of December we updated pictures and provided more details and current postings. All of the “stay tuned” comments will soon be gone!

TIM’S TIME
Check back here on a regular basis for my time to share what’s on my mind these days.

Reaching the Director of Ministry to Youth and Their Families
To reach our Director of Youth and Family Ministry, dial 943-2661 and his extension, 108. You can also email Tim McKinley at mckinleyt@comcast.net. If it is urgent, call 360-480-5690.

When You Need To Be Heard
To encourage direct communication regarding our ministry, the following information has been thoughtfully developed by the Youth Council. It is our hope that it will assist those who desire to ask questions, provide input, or express thoughts that they may have about the Youth Ministry Program.

Process
1. The first step when you have a question, need information, want to provide input, or have a thoughts about the Youth Program, is to talk directly to the person(s) involved.
2. If you need further input, talk directly with the Director of Ministry, Tim McKinley or with the Youth Council chair(s). If it would be helpful to have a "neutral buddy" accompany you as you talk with the Youth Minister or Youth Council chair, a member of the Youth Council would be happy to do so.
3. If you are not getting the information you need or are not feeling satisfied with the responses you've received, you are welcome to bring your need to the Youth Council. Please contact the chair to reserve a time on the agenda.

If the above three steps have been followed and your needs remain unmet, the final step in the process is to arrange a discussion with the Senior Pastor.

The Expression of Concerns
Within any community there are differences of opinion and a church is no different. Occasionally, these differences intensify and grow into conflicts. This is not an unhealthy sign as conflict resolution can lead to growth. The key is to facilitate the opportunity for all sides to voice their opinions and be heard. Honoring the view of the other and respecting the parties involved is central to the listening process and the resolution of conflict.

Sometimes the response you receive may be a legitimate response but one with which you disagree. In some cases there is no resolution to a concern, and parties need to agree to disagree while still honoring the opinion of the other and respecting the individuals involved.

Grant Funds

Thu, 8 Nov 2007 08:54:46 -0800

Grant Fund 2007

We raise money for basically three things:

Charity (Like the CROP Walk)
Our Summer Youth Mission Trips
Our Grant Fund

For every dollar raised, a portion goes to YOUR GRANT FUND account. You never really touch the money, as it is kept in a church account for your family. But whenever there are BIG YOUTH events, you can request to spend it by calling the church treasurer, Marilyn Gregson, 943-2661, ext. 105.

Youth Ministry Forms

Thu, 8 Nov 2007 08:53:27 -0800

12 Promises

During FUMCO youth activities, we will conduct ourselves in ways that are consistent with who we are as a Christian community. We will strive to be positive in all we say and do. The “12 Promises” apply to adult leaders and youth alike.

THOU SHALT HAVE A GOOD TIME. You are to have an exciting and fulfilling experience. Encourage others to do the same.

THOU SHALT BE ON TIME, READY AND PREPARED to join in Christian fellowship.

THOU SHALT STAY WITH THE FLOCK. Stay with the group. We enjoy your company.

THOU SHALT TREAT EVERYONE WITH RESPECT. Comments like ’please,’ ‘thank you,’ ‘good job,’ and ‘well done’ are encouraged. Honor the opinions of all in our group. The Golden Rule applies: treat others, as you would want to be treated and respected.

THOU SHALT HONOR ADULT LEADERS. Give them your gratitude and respect, just as they do you. Never forget their immense responsibility for your safety and well being.

THOU SHALT USE CLEAN LANGUAGE. Let your choice of words be guided by WWJS, What Would Jesus Say? If in doubt, don’t say it.

THOU SHALT CLEAN UP AFTER YOURSELF. Cleanliness is next to Godliness.

THOU SHALT HONOR CONFIDENTIALITY. Our group is a safe place to express our feelings, opinions and be heard. Things said in confidence remain in confidence.

THOU SHALT RESPECT THY NEIGHBOR’S “STUFF.” If it’s not yours “Hands Off.“

THOU SHALT NOT POSSESS OR CONSUME alcohol, tobacco, inhalants, illegal drugs, fireworks, firearms or weapons. Infractions of #10 entitle one to a trip home.

THOU SHALT LEAVE PERSONAL ELECTRONIC ENTERTAINMENT DEVICES at home. We don’t want you to miss all the incredible things that can happen!

THOU SHALT LOVE ONE ANOTHER AS CHRIST HAS LOVED YOU. Our mission is to become friends in Christ. Please keep your focus on our BODY of Christ and not just your closest friends. Just as you need to pay attention to all the parts of your BODY, please pay attention to all the parts of our BODY of Christ, too. Christ made sure no one was left out. Do the same and you’ll learn why we really do need each other.

We want all to love and be loved as Christ first loved us. In that same spirit, we affirm our God-given sexuality through compassionate touch. When our touching crosses the boundaries into passionate touch, it is critical that we observe the following guidelines while at youth group:

Passionate touching interferes with our goal to be there to support one another in Christ. Those choosing such private activity become separated from our group and are no longer available to support it. Please choose this private activity at a time when the youth group does not meet and with the permission and guidance of your guardian or parent.
It is the responsibility of passionate couples to manage their “acts of being together and their acts of separating” in ways that does no harm to our group goals to grow closer in Christ.
Adult leaders are empowered to determine what is and is not compassionate or passionate touching and collectively set appropriate consequences.

Failure to honor these guidelines could result in the suspension of even compassionate touching. Let’s not have that happen!

For All Overnight Events at Home and Away
Thou shalt also promise to agree to the following:

SLEEPING ARRANGEMENTS: Males and females will be in separate sleeping areas. Remember this from the Lord’s prayer, “Lord, lead us not into temptation…” Sleeping in the same quarters tempts even those most trustworthy in our midst!
TIME FOR “LIGHTS OUT“: Respect yourself and others by sleeping at the designated time.
TRAVEL HAPPENS ONLY ON A “BUDDY SYSTEM“: When traveling away from the church, the “Buddy” system will be used. Pick a buddy and tell an adult. We don’t want anyone left behind!
BEING IN OR AT YOUR ASSIGNED AREA: For your safety, No “Sneaking Out.”
RESPECT FOR THE PHYSICAL PROPERTY OF OTHERS: (i.e., churches, camps, homes, dorms, etc). Leave it better than you found it, especially if you want to be invited back.

In the event of a violation, the adult leaders, church staff persons and the youth Lead Team will make a decision regarding the appropriate action. This may include a phone call to parents or being sent home at the expense of the parent or guardian.

I will keep all our promises, as I realize that my actions will always influence the whole group.

____________________________________________________________________________
Parent or Guardian Signature Spell Name

____________________________________________________________________________
Youth Signature Spell Name

Date Today__________________________________________________________________

4/99 Designed by the Youth Lead Team and Adult Leaders. Revised 5/02.

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Your Friends at FUMCO Would Like To Get To Know You!

Name_______________________________________________________Graduation Year __________

Date Today _______/_______/________Grade__________Birthday________/__________/__________

Phone ( )___________________________ Cell ______________________________________

Address_____________________________________________________________________________

City, Zip_____________________________________________________________________________

Email_______________________________________________________________________________

School______________________________________________________________________________

Have you been confirmed in a church? Yes/No Baptized? Yes/No

Send to Tim McKinley, 1224 Legion Way SE, Olympia, WA. 98501, <mckinleyt@comcast.net>, 943-2661.

Please Fill This Out Now. And, if you have time, do the flip side.

Personal interests/sports/hobbies_________________________________________________

Do you sing? Play an instrument? ________________________________________________________

List siblings and ages_____________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________

Mom________________________________________________________ FUMCO member? Yes/No

Address _____________________________________________________________________________

CityZip_________________________________________Cell #:( )_____________________

Email___________________________________________ ____________________________________

HM# ( )_________________________WK#: ( )____________________________

Dad________________________________________________________ FUMCO member? Yes/No

Address _____________________________________________________________________________

CityZip_________________________________________Cell #:( )_____________________

Email___________________________________________ ____________________________________

HM# ( )_________________________WK#: ( )____________________________

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Adult Workers with Children, Youth and Vulnerable Adults
BACKGROUND CHECKS Please print neatly and use ink

* Legal First Name __________________________________ Middle Initial______ *Last Name___________________________________
* Address (City) *(State) *(Zip)_______________
* Phone Number (_______)____________________________*Date of Birth________ /________ / * Gender: Male  Female 
Drivers Lic. Number___________________________ / _______ * Social Security Number___________/____________/_____________
State
E-Mail Address __________________________________________________________________________________

* Local Church (no initials)_____________________________ Camp or Event ______________________________________

* = Required Fields

The Washington State Legislature has helped us assure security for children, youth and vulnerable adults by requiring background checks on all people who work with children, youth and vulnerable adults. The United Methodist Church supports this requirement. Because we care, we ask any adult who is providing supervision and/or leadership to complete a background check every two years. Your privacy will be protected and information only used for the purpose of completing a background check.

Please complete the following questions and attach an explanation for any “yes” answer.
Y N 1. Have you ever been convicted of any crime against children or other persons?
Y N 2. Have you ever been found in any dependency action to have sexually assaulted or exploited any minor or to have physically abused any minor?
Y N 3. Have you ever been found by a court, in a domestic relations proceeding, to have sexually abused or exploited any minor or to have physically abused any minor?
Y N 4. a. Have you been convicted of the possession, use, or sale of drugs within the last 7 years?
b. Have you been released from incarceration for a conviction of the possession, use, or sale of drugs within the last 7 years?
Y N 5. Within the past 30 days have you abused alcohol, legal or illegal drugs?
Y N 6. Has your driver’s license been suspended or revoked within the last 7 years?
Y N 7. Have you ever been convicted of crimes relating to financial exploitation where the victim was vulnerable adult?
Y N 8. Have you ever been found by a court in a protection proceeding to have abused or financially exploited a vulnerable adult?
Y N 9. a. Have you ever been licensed by a licensing board that licenses businesses/professions?
(If yes, please answer b. and c.)
Y N b. Have you ever been found by that licensing board, or any other disciplinary board, to
have sexually or physically abused or exploited any minor or developmentally disabled person?
Y N c. Have you ever been found by that licensing board, or any other disciplinary board, to have abused or financially exploited any vulnerable adult?
Y N 10. Other than the above matter, is there any fact or circumstance involving you and your background that would call into question your being entrusted with the supervision, guidance and care of young people, vulnerable adults or developmentally disabled persons?
Washington Residents:
I understand that a background inquiry may be made to the Washington State Patrol. The Washington State Patrol screening shows only conviction data for crimes against persons in the State of Washington (RCW 43.43.834).

If you are under 18 years of age, a Wa state resident for less than 3 years or the resident of another state, you must provide the following for three references: (use another page if necessary)

1. _______________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Name, street address, city, state, zip, day-time phone number, e-mail address (if available)

2. _______________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Name, street address, city, state, zip, day-time phone number, e-mail address (if available)

3. _______________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Name, street address, city, state, zip, day-time phone number, e-mail address (if available)

I certify that the information I have provided is true and correct. If it is found that the answers given are untrue, I understand it may be cause for dismissal.

Signature ___________________________________ ________________________ Date ______________________________

Please mail or bring completed form to: FUMCO

Jr. & Sr. High Mission Trip 2008 Youth Works in Yakima

Thu, 8 Nov 2007 08:27:25 -0800

Just the Facts
Date: July 18/19-26, 2008 Anticipated Cost: $150 youth; $75 adult leaders
Who: All grades from 2008-2013; hosted by the 2008 Cross Training Posse

We’re teaming with new friends from McCleary, Shelton and hopefully, old friends from Methow Valley, as we head to Yakima to meet with other youth groups from around the country.

John Westerhoff, a Professor in Christian Education at Duke Divinity School, once said, "Take your church on a retreat once a year and you'll probably learn more about following Christ than in a year of Sunday School." Research shows that mission trips transform the lives of our youth more then any other ministry.

Preparing as Teams
Going on a mission trip is not like going to summer camp, which requires no advance preparation. We must first grow as a team, prepared to love as Christ loved us. Mission trips are great experiences only when groups prepare as teams.

Requirements
All 2008 mission trip families are required to support our April 27, 2008 auction fundraiser. Further details on preparatory requirements are being developed by the Youth Council and our Sr. High Leadership Training Team!

Sr. High Mexico Mission Trip 2008

Thu, 8 Nov 2007 08:27:10 -0800

Please click the graphic above to apply for or renew your passport, today!
Want to join us for our 2008 venture to “Futuro Del Oro”? You’ll need a passport, so apply now. Delays are months long!

Just the Facts
Date: June 20/21-29, 2008 Anticipated Cost: $200 youth; $100 adult leaders
Who: Sr. High Classes, 2008-2011

While working with “Futuro del Oro,” a mission agency in Tijuana, Mexico, our youth will spend their days building homes for the needy and their evenings in worship, music, sharing and recreation.

John Westerhoff, a Professor in Christian Education at Duke Divinity School once said, "Take your church on a retreat once a year and you'll probably learn more about following Christ than in a year of Sunday School." Research shows that mission trips transform the lives of our youth more then any other ministry.

Preparing as Teams
Going on a mission trip is not like going to summer camp, which requires no advance preparation. We must first grow as a team, prepared to love as Christ loved us. Mission trips are great experiences only when groups prepare as teams.

Requirements
All Mexico 2008 mission trip families are required to support our April 27, 2008 auction fundraiser. Further details on preparatory requirements are being developed by the Youth Council and our Sr. High Leadership Training Team!

Recommended Shots for Mexico and Related Health Information
All participants in the Mexico trip should have the following vaccinations/immunizations:

1. Hepatitis A & B vaccination gives life long immunity, so any prior vaccination is fine.
These hepatitis vaccinations are a series generally given 6 weeks apart at least, so if people want protection, get going ASAP. The Public Health Dept. has a vaccination clinic (on Lilly Rd) but is often booked weeks in advance. While these shots are not mandatory, they are recommended.

2. Tetanus immunization should be current within the past 5 years. If someone is unsure about the when the last tetanus shot was, get another one.

These shots are generally available from any primary physician. Alternatively, they can be obtained at the Occupational Medicine Clinic at Capital Medical Center. Call 754-5858 and ask for the Occupational Medicine Clinic. (Cynthia Wolfe is the director of that clinic, so if there are any questions or glitches, give her a call).

Lessons Archive

Thu, 8 Nov 2007 08:20:20 -0800

God's Love Letter to You

You Say                                           Your Heavenly Father Says
Itʼs impossible.                              All things are possible (Luke 18:27)
Iʼm tired.                                    I will give you rest (Matthew 11:28-30)
Nobody really loves me.          I love you (John 3:16 & John 3:34 )
I canʼt go on.                                My grace is sufficient (II Corinthians 12:9 and Psalm 91:15)
I canʼt figure things out.             I will direct your steps (Proverbs 3:5-6)
I canʼt do it.                                  You can do all things (Philippians 4:13)
Iʼm not able.                                  I am able (II Corinthians 9:8)
Itʼs not worth it.                            I am able (II Corinthians 9:8)
I canʼt forgive myself.                ≈ I forgive you (I John 1:9 & Romans 8:1)
I canʼt manage.                         I will supply all your needs (Philippians 4:19)
Iʼm afraid..                                     I have not given you a spirit of fear (II Timothy 1:7)
Iʼm worried and frustrated        Cast all your cares on Me (I Peter 5:7)
Iʼm not smart enough.                 I give you wisdom (I Corinthians 1:30)
I feel all alone.                            I will never leave you or forsake you (Hebrews 13:5

Christian Pharisees

I recently had two conversations with college students wanting to talk about their college campus "Christian experience." The theme running through both conversations was the same. They were learning that their Christian beliefs did not "pass the test." I call it the new millennium "Christian Pharisee Exam" and it is being given daily all over the country.

How does one pass the test?

First, you must vote for only Republican political candidates. I disagree. I know devout Christians who are Republican, Democrat, moderate, liberal, conservative and everything in between. They are all my friends and I do not doubt their commitment to Christ.

Second, a Christian cannot hold liberal views, period. Again I disagree. Was Jesus liberal or conservative in his beliefs? My answer is that he was both. And if history has taught me anything, it is this. When arguments last for centuries, it is because there is truth on both sides.

Who is right? The conservatives or the liberals? My answer? There is truth on both sides and Christians have the right to belong in both camps.

I don't want to be a Pharisee. They were not uniters; they were dividers. And, I do not want us to forget that all Christians, regardless of their political perspective or beliefs, share one thing in common: our admiration and love for the one we call Christ. This is what holds us together and nothing can ever tear it apart, unless we become more like the Pharisees and less like Christ. I don't want to be a Christian Pharisee. I want to be a follower of Christ and spend more time focusing on the log in my own eye, than the speck in the eye of my Christian brother or sister.

More on that later!

Tim

"Teach Us How to Pray"

"Teach Us How to Pray." It was the request the disciples made of Jesus more then 2000 years ago, and disciples continue to ask that same question today. Here are some great tips:

1. Just do it. Don't worry about getting it right. It is sort of like talking to a stranger for the first time. You don't know what to say and it is awkward at first, but after you break the ice, it starts getting easier.

2. How do you talk to your best friend? Pray this way. Have you ever seen "Fiddler on the Roof"? I love the way Tevye talks to God with the ease of talking to a best friend.

3. Borrowing again from "Fiddler on the Roof," you might notice that after Tevye talks to God, it usually changes who he is. I have often heard it said of prayer that real prayer changes us. When we pray, we open ourselves to God and the encounter should never leave us unchanged.

4. Listen for answers. Prayer is a conversation. God gave us two ears and one mouth for a reason. How does God talk back? The scripture is one way, and listening for the "still small voice" inside you is another. Sometimes God speaks to us through people.

Just remember, always compare and contrast the answer you get with scripture and who you understand Christ to be in your life. That "still small voice" inside you, telling you to forgive your neighbor may very well be the voice of God. The "neighbor" advising you to get even is probably not God speaking to you. If it contradicts who Christ is and what the Bible teaches, it is not of God. As our founder John Wesley said, “First, do no harm.”

5. Be honest and real. Are you honest and real with your best friend? Be so with the one Jesus called "Abba."

6. Have no fear. Ask hard questions. "Abba" is used to it and it is in the act of asking these hard questions, that you may find the answers you seek. In fact, a pastor I know began his prayer life by telling God he did not believe in him! And look how that turned out.

7. Prayer is a spiritual act that is real. We live in a world where, too often, only science is seen as truth. Many will argue that because "the spiritual realm" cannot be proven scientifically, it is not real. Here's a test to dispel that myth. Prove that yesterday happened. It cannot be done. Videotape can be altered, pictures doctored, transcripts forged and recollections disputed. History quickly enters into a spiritual realm.

Here's one more. Stand in front of the mirror and look yourself in the eye for just 5 minutes. There is a good chance you will get the sense that who you are is far more then this flesh and bones. You are spirit.

8. "Abba" is bigger then Santa Claus. How would you feel if your best friend never asked for anything more then good grades, good weather and new Nikes? While no prayer is bad prayer, and bad prayer is better then no prayer, consider what gifts "Abba" wants to give us. Read Galatians 5:22-23. Look at the gifts God wants to give you. "Abba" knows what we really need!

Desire for Cheap Goods Prompts Animal Cruelty
Do shopping habits make a difference?  Recently the BBC news covered a story about the use of dog and cat fur used in manufacturing item and about the cruel treatment that is part of the industry in China. The video was graphic, deeply disturbing and unlikely to appear on U.S. news. The Chinese government response was, "We do not promote animal cruelty, but a market exists for these furs and that market is Europe and the U.S. If they'll buy it, we'll make it."  We've been reminded that China's absence of humane and ethical treatment of animals is matched by blatant disregard for the health of its citizens and the environment. Consider the benzene spill into the Songhua River, the toxic effluent in Shitou Twon (leather city) or the coal mine explosion that brings China to a record 6,000 killed in mine accidents THIS year alone.  These attitudes are not new to China. What is new is that our insatiable desire for cheap goods; leather, fur, textiles, electronics now fuel the worst business practices in a country loath to regulate its own industries.  Isn't it time that we as a country, as legislators, politicians, business leaders, and each of us as consumers, took the lead in forcing China to rise to a higher standard? It is a small step, but I won't be buying anything labeled Made in China. If the bottom line is one China takes note of (money), it's a good place to start.  Alahna Allen, Olympia

Be Spiritual and Live Longer

It should be no surprise that we live longer if we stay safe and healthy.

Stay Safe

According to the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, "Accidents are the leading cause of death among teenagers and young adults." To avoid the grim reaper at such a young age, the Post-Dispatch offers this common sense list. Make sure you always:

    * Wear a seat belt.
    * Drive safely.
    * Avoid harmful drugs and substances, legal or illegal.
    * Avoid family violence and violence with strangers.

Be Healthy

    * Exercise: Find something you enjoy and do it for 30 minutes a day most days of the week. The Post-Dispatch asserts that some doctors say exercise is so powerful it can even lessen the severity of illnesses passed through your family genes.

    * Eat right: Eat fish three to four times a week, load up on fruits and vegetables, get plenty of calcium and other vitamins, and don't smoke.

    * Maintain a healthy weight: The secret to a long life may be maintaining a healthy weight in your young adult years and staying physically active in later years--and this holds true even if you suffer from diabetes, heart disease, or cancer as a senior citizen. Reuters reports that researchers from the University of California, Irvine have determined that elderly people who reported weighing the least at age 21 and who participated regularly in physical exercise as senior citizens were the most likely to eventually celebrate their 90th birthday.

Be Spiritual

None other than the venerable Mayo Clinic has suggested that one of the best ways to improve your chances of living a century is to recognize the value of spirituality in your life.

Other research has shown that people who regularly attend worship services, live longer. It's not the act of going to the church, synagogue, or mosque that extends lives, but rather the involvement in the religious and spiritual activities.

One other theory: People who are involved in religious groups benefit from the social networks they form. If they get sick, others look out for them. Religious beliefs may also lead to less risky behavior. In addition, a well developed sense of spirituality may help people better cope with life's tough psychological demands.

LIFE LESSONS

You've probably received SCAM email that tells you you’ve been chosen to be the American who can help move vast amounts of cash from a foreign country to this country, and you’ll get a big portion of the money for your help. DO NOT BELIEVE THE STORY, AS IT IS A LIE DESIGNED TO STEAL MONEY FROM YOUR BANK ACCOUNTS! Now that we have this out of the way, here is your assignment.

As a Christian, how do you respond to emails like this? Do you respond? What would Christ say if he were to encounter the person or group claiming to be "Prince"? Email your response to mckinleyt@comcast.net. As a body of Christ, we should come up with some pretty awesome responses and in the process grow closer to one another and Christ.

Remember, DO NOT SEND ANY BANK ACCOUNT INFORMATION! Remember, it is a lie designed to steal your money.

Another Reason the World Hates the USA?

Recently, I received a note from a parent in our program about WAL-MART, and she was most concerned that her brothers and sisters in Christ should become more aware about the business practices of the Walton Family Corporation. Download a copy of this congressional report here and tell us what you think!

THE REALLY BIG QUESTIONS

Sometimes the most important questions arise when they are least expected and answers can't always wait until Sunday! Send in your questions here, and we'll all find the answers together. Just email mckinleyt@comcast.net right now!

We Need Your Gifts and Talents!

Thu, 8 Nov 2007 08:18:55 -0800

Youth Sound Technicians for Worship
Here’s your chance to run the sound board for the first worship service on Sundays. Tim Monahan, our sound technician, will train all who apply and training starts now. Call the office today at 943-2661 and leave a message for Tim Monahan.

Youth Acolytes
It’s an important job to bring the light of Christ into the worship services and new training, led by Dr. Gary Bloomfield, is happening right now. Call the office today at 943-2661 and leave a message with our new acolyte scheduler, Dolores Prouty.

Be a Game Master!
Email mckinleyt@comcast.net if you would like to learn how to LEAD games on Sunday nights! Lance Calisch and George Hollingbery want to train you!

Grade 6

Thu, 8 Nov 2007 08:16:47 -0800

Just for Grade 6

When does Grade 6 graduate to Grade 7? In our FUMCO program, this change will take place in the fall of 2008. However, in the summer, the Pacific Northwest Conference camping program graduates grade 6 to grade 7 at the beginning of the summer. This means graduates of 6th grade can attend camp as a new Jr. High student.

Senior High small Groups

Sat, 8 Sep 2007 08:06:34 -0700

Here’s all the information you need for Senior High Small Groups!

Just the Facts
Today's youth are part of the generation known as the "echo boomers,' the "Y generation" or the "millennials." No matter what you call them, they are 80 million strong and now comprise one third of the entire population of the United States. Here are some things to know about youth born between the years 1982 and 1995.

The good news is that next to their peers, parents are the most influential people in their lives. Youth are hungry for a positive adult presence in their lives. They need adult leaders and parents to be mentors.

The bad news for church youth ministries like ours is this: most researchers agree that the "millennials" are the most "over scheduled," "over programmed" and "over pressured" generation in history. As I talk with youth ministry professionals around the country, it is this issue that surfaces as our number one challenge. How do we raise our young friends in the faith, when they are already scheduled 24/7? Where do we find the time to gather when even Sundays become less available each year? One thing is certain. Doing what we used to do no longer works and has become a ministry of "triage." We can do better and that's why we, like so many others, are re-inventing our ministry for this fall.

So, exactly how does a SYNAGO SMALL GROUP function?
First, think of them like a SUPPORT GROUP designed to minister to one another. They meet twice-monthly at times of their own choosing. They could meet on a week night, Saturday or even Sunday morning or night. In 2 hours there is time for food, fellowship, fun, spiritual growth plus joys and concerns.Small groups can meet in homes or at church. Since the group is "student-led," youth will take turns leading the group. And, once started, they will choose a group name that best reflects Galatians 6:2 and who they are as a "family in Christ." It could be the name of their mentor(s), or wherever their creativity leads them!

The great thing about a group like this is that the group can count on each other to be present and available on a more consistent basis. That is something we experience at high levels on mission trips but not with our present Sunday morning/evening schedule. And, to demonstrate that presence, each member of a small group will have specific roles to play. Everyone gets a chance to develop greater leadership skills in all sorts of ways, and roles can be rotated as the group desires.

1. Chaplain- this person makes sure "prayer partners" are being supportive and leads the group in Joys and Concerns. They'll even do follow up on those joys and concerns!
2. Captain- this Lead Team member gives Tim group input, feedback and also represents their group on fundraising teams. The Captain can always be counted on to get the ball rolling!
3. Ticket Master- gets their small group registered for all large group activities. It's a HUGE large group task. but much smaller and manageable for small group TICKET MASTERS. This should make getting registered for things like the Auction and Chocolate Factory much less complicated.
4. Fan Club President- promotes the activities of group members to their group and all groups, if they so desire. Want someone to come to your game? Help celebrate your birthday? Clip your picture from the paper and post it on our group bulletin boards? Tell your Fan Club President.
5. Administer Minister- helps coordinate large group activities with school and church and personal schedules of their family group members. Again, it's a HUGE large group task, but much more manageable for ADMINISTER MINISTERS. This should help improve our support for retreats and sleep-overs.

While the group will eventually work with TIm on choosing their themes and topics, we'll start with the following lessons.

Opening Scripture Studies
1. Log Eye Puzzle- How Judgmental Are You? Do You Have a Log Eye?
2. Gossip Games- What Do You Do with Your Words?
3. Giraffes and Galatians 6:2- How do you bear the burdens of another? How do you meet their needs?

More Suggested Studies
1. Hot Topics-Abortion, The Iraq War, Gay Marriage
2. What is God's Will?
3. Should biblical creation stories be taught in school as science?
4. What Do You United Methodists Believe?

We Are Family
The relationships don't end when the family group gathering ends.

1. The FAN CLUB PRESIDENT encourages the group to be present at group member games, concerts and activities.
2. "PRAYER PARTNERS" pray for each other throughout the week and communicate those requests by email and phone.
3. The CHAPLAIN emails prayer requests that arise during the week.
4. ADULT MENTORS, chosen by the group as mentors and chaperones, are available to chat on the phone whenever a family member needs a listening ear. MENTORING provides an opportunity for adult leaders and parents to mentor all our youth and give them the personal attention our church staff cannot do alone. "Mentor Training" will be offered via the web site and in large and small groups.
5. Each month, a different SYNAGO Small Group will lead one Sunday morning Sr. High "BodyBuilding" from 10:00-11:00, in order to practice welcoming new members to our body of Christ.
6. And as often as they would like, Family Groups can plan and sponsor Evening UMY activities, sleepovers, retreats and encourage other Family Groups to join them! The web site will be growing with more ideas and resources by the month!

In exploring this new mode Youth Council chair, determined that it meets the 4 C's: commitment to a community with a covenant in Christ. Commitment is the key word. Let's pray it be so!

In the month of September, we'll begin forming Family Groups. We'll start forming the groups by having you pick a 90 minute time you could meet twice-monthly. With the excepption of 8:30 a.m.-10:00 a.m. on Sunday morning, any time is an option and picking more then one time makes it easier to include your friends in your group. Please pick a time you can meet with commitment. Since the groups will be no more then 10 members, your presence is always critical.

Love you guys

Tim

FAQ's (Frequently Asked Questions)

1. Will the Sr. High Family Small Groups REPLACE what happens on Sunday morning or Sunday night? Yes and No. What best meets your spiritual and personal needs? Your small group can determine the answer to that question. Remember we do want each small group to be responsible to lead one Sunday morning "body building" time a month and, of course, we want everyone in worship. Outside of that, you decide what best meets your spiritual and personal needs.

The important thing is that we now have one thing for every youth that involves a "commitment to a community with a covenant in Christ." Remember how close you feel to your friends in Christ while you are on mission trips together? You should experience some of that same bond within your new family groups.

2. Can we choose who is in our group? As long as friends can meet the same time as you, sure! Once we determine the best times for everyone, we'll ask you to pick 5 friends you would like in your group and 5 friends you would like to get to know better. It would be impossible to guarantee you'll get everyone you want, just like on mission trip teams, but we'll do our best!

3. Should siblings pick the same night and group? Transportation could be an issue but examine all possible solutions, like car pooling and catching rides, before deciding. If siblings WANT to be in the same group, request that!

4. How important is it to be committed to the group? Your group will not thrive without your commitment. Think of it the same way as you commit to your sports teams, a theatre group or a dance troupe. If the night you choose ends up later being a challenging time, then please join another group!

5. How does a small group meet the needs of our youth? School research shows that in order for youth to develop and mature, they need opportunities to be involved, grow in skills and see the reward for their efforts. This is why mission trips are typically the most powerful moments we experience. Together we get highly involved, develop new skills and see the reward for our efforts. Our new small groups will offer us the very same opportunities.

REGISTER Your Available Times
Tell us what nights are good for you so we can help you choose friends to be in your group, mentors and people you would like to get to know better! Email mckinleyt@comcast.net to get registered today. REGISTER Your Available Times Here.
Tell us what nights are good for you so we can help you choose friends to be in your group, mentors and people you would like to get to know better! Email mckinleyt@comcast.net to get registered today.

CRITICAL Directions
With the exception of 8:30 a.m.-10:00 a.m. on Sunday morning, any time is an option and picking more then one time makes it easier to include your friends in your group. Please pick a time you can meet with commitment. Since the groups will be no more then 10 members, your presence is always critical.

DO NOT PICK only the dates all your friends are picking. We want each group to consist of friends AND other youth you would like to get to know better. Please log on to http://www.fumcoly.org/umy/viewArticle.aspx?article=751513 to review all the details about our small groups and the most recent FAQ's.

Once we determine the best times for everyone, we'll ask you to pick 5 friends you would like in your group and 5 friends you would like to get to know better. It would be impossible to guarantee you'll get everyone you want, just like on mission trip teams, but we'll do our best!

"Belonging Comes Before Believing"
Quick question: Is what we do in our youth ministry built upon the scriptural reality that "Belonging Comes Before Believing"? Yes, if we're on a mission trip. Sometimes on Sunday night. Hardly ever on a Sunday morning. We now have a chance to do better and that's why we're ready to move to small groups for 2007. As you contemplate all that you read, remember this phrase, "Belonging Comes Before Believing." As it resonates within your soul, you'll most certainly catch the vision!

Why Small Groups? 5 Big "S" Reasons!
1. Support- Let's stay connected so we can "love one another as Christ has loved us." Don't face your life challenges alone!
2. Study- It's not like school; it's your chance to explore spiritual issues and the life questions most important to you.
3. Service- Choose how you want to serve and be the love of Christ here in Olympia, as well as abroad.
4. Sustenance- The small group that eats together stays together!
5. Social- Let's have some fun bonding because we are called to be a people of joy!

SUGGESTED SAMPLE OF STUDY TOPICS (led by youth and for youth):
Come Up With Your Own Topics to Help You Grow in Your Faith! You might even find something on the internet!

Is There a Heaven? Hell? Is the Devil Real?
Is God Really Out There? How Can You Know?
What Does the United Methodist Church Believe?
Positive Peer Pressure-Can I Succeed in Challenging My Friends to Do the Right Thing?
Decision Making-How To Make the Right Choices Using the Ram Theory
Is the Anti-Christ Alive Today?
Are the Ten Commandments Still Relevant For My Life Today?
How Do I Face the Storms and Challenges in My Life?
Love Connections- Getting Together the Best Way
Surviving School Stress
Is It Ever OK to Lie? The Art of White Lying
Substance Abuse
Eating Disorders
What is My Calling in Life?
The Maternal Side of God
Getting Along with My Family
Do Miracles Still Happen?
Abortion
Capital Punishment-What Does Our Faith Teach Us?
Should We GIve Money to Panhandlers?
Explore the Gospel Message in Feature Films (See below.)

SAMPLE BOOKS TO STUDY
The Will of God
There's a Hole in Your Soul That Only God Can Fill
The Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius
Where in the World Is God?
The Left Behind Series
50 Ways to Pray
The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People

PNW CONFERENCE RESOURCES
There are all sorts of great resources at the Conference Office available to loan for small group learning, including our suggested starting curriculum SYNAGO and DEVO-ZINE. There's even contemporary music you can play in your small groups like http://iworshipnow.com/iworship-home.html

Renovare Spiritual Formation New Revised Standard Version Study Bible
We have a great new Bible to use as a resource for each small group. Spearheaded by bestselling author Richard Foster (Celebration of Discipline), the "Renovare Study Bible" shows us a richer, fuller understanding of the Scripture for daily living. It's more then a devotional Bible and deeper than a study Bible and includes spiritual exercises from our spiritual disciplines to help us grow in our relationship with God and Christ.

Suggested Sample of Feature Films to Study (Finding the Gospel Message in Film)
Spiderman 1
The Princess Bride
Ice Age
The Mission
Gandhi
Napoleon Dynamite
Contact
The Chronicles of Narnia
Lord of the Rings
Kingdom of Heaven
Harry Potter
Star Wars
Whale Rider
SICKO- Great Lessons on Loving Your Enemies
BIG
The Fisher King
Patch Adams
The Matrix
Christmas Movies-The Best Christmas Pageant Ever, It's a Wonderful Life, Scrooge & Scrooged
Charlotte's Web

Suggested Sample of Network Programs to Study (Finding the Gospel Message in TV)
Heroes
Friday Night Lights
My Name is Earl
The Simpsons (Curriculum writers have actually created material based on the Simpsons)
Joan of Arcadia
Touched by an Angel
The X-Files
Seinfeld
Cosby
The Wonder Years
Andy Griffith

Suggested Sample of Local Mission and Service Opportunities
Community Youth Services (Ask Garrett Leonard how he has helped at Rosie's Place)
Habitat for Humanity (South Sound Chapter)
Veritas Cafe and Coffee House
Salvation Army Soup Kitchen
Thurston County Food Bank (Talk to Rodger Johnson)
Safeplace (safeplaceolympia.org)
Madison Elementary School
Volunteer at the Young Adult Homeless Shelter in the U-District (UW) and work directly with homeless youth
World Vision Planned Famine
Emergency Overflow Shelter Network
The Crisis Line, 586-2888, ext. 110

"The only things we keep permanently are those we give away." (Waite Phillips)

Do We Still Have a Sr. High Sunday Night Program?
Sure. What it looks like and how often can be decided by the small groups themselves! We hope each small group will sponsor some events that will include invitations to all the Sr. High small groups. This will give more leadership opportunities and a greater voice to our Sr. High youth.

Do We Still Have a Sunday Morning Gathering following worship?
Yep. We'll still gather to reflect on the worship sermon and "build up our body" in Christ with games and mixers. We always have lots of new faces on Sunday morning that need a small group home! It's one more great time for outreach! Each small group will be invited to host one Sunday morning "body building" gathering a month.

Can Our Small Groups Really Reflect the Mission Trip Spirit?
Absolutely. Make the same effort you do on your mission trips and you'll see similar results bringing us closer to Christ and one another.

Do I Have To Be in a Small Group?
While we want everyone to participate in a Sr. High small group, it is your choice to make. Please know that being in a small group is your best opportunity for leadership and ownership of our ministry together, and those two things really are the engine that drives our youth and family ministry. Want to be at the heart of things? Get in a small group!

What's Up with the Need for Adult Mentors?
Each group will have adult mentors for support, to complement the support coming from your peers. Some of our best ministry to youth has been mentoring relationships already in progress.

The Following is a WORK IN PROGRESS!

What Do Small Groups Give Us We Cannot Find in Sunday Morning and Evening Gatherings?
That's the million dollar question. Here's the million dollar answer. The schedules of our lives fracture our connections with one another. Getting our youth and parents in the same place at the same time continues to grow more and more challenging. In fact, it grows more and more challenging to have our mission teams together from the beginning of the trip until the end.

The beauty of small groups is that we maintain a connection throughout the year. It's a lot easier getting a smaller group together, and it takes us back to our roots as United Methodists. John Wesley started the small group movement, only he called them "accountability groups." And being held accountable to one another, within the framework of a small group ministry, is exactly what our ministry needs today.

Belonging Comes Before Believing
All youth groups must be built on one foundation: relationships. Significant ground breaking research (The National Study on Youth and Religion) and the experience of every good youth leader and parent has shown this to be true. And as we ponder how a Christian education model is built on relationships with Christ and each other, it is important to realize that the public school system model is not built on relationships.

Consider this: a home-schooled youth can succeed and graduate from high school without ever developing close relationships with peers. Youth groups and churches can never succeed this way. Youth must attend school because it is the law. At a youth group, they will come because of relationships.

Here's why we want to move to a small group model: We'll improve our chances of growing in the faith if we use a relational model as our foundation and not the school system model.

Head vs. Heart
The school system model focuses on educating the mind. The Christian education model focuses on educating the heart and you can only do that in a safe environment which allows for the exploration of such matters. Here's an example based on a true story.

The Significance of a Safe Environment
On a FUMCO Sunday morning in a Christian education class, a youth posed a heartfelt question. "Can I pray and will God speak to me? Can I have a vision of God like others had in the Bible?" As we began exploring scriptural answers, peers who did not know the one posing this question began to snicker. Perhaps they were uninterested or simply uncomfortable by the subject matter. Did they know their peer posing the question? No. The exploration of the question was over and the message communicated that day was "It isn't safe to lay your heart out in the open in this place at this time."

Challenges and Solutions
Consider our Christian Education time on a FUMCO Sunday morning. How do we make that environment safe to explore matters of the heart? Our spiritual journeys? First, let's examine the challenges we face on Sunday morning:

A. Turnover. Sunday morning group dynamics change every single Sunday morning and this turnover makes it very difficult to create the safe environment built on relationships that we need to succeed. The reasons for the turnover? The list is long. Other commitments to extracurricular activities, jobs, family activities and you can add to the list.
B. Time. Remember, the school system model does not need to educate on a relational foundation. A one hour format can succeed. In a Christian education class with high turnover there must be time to build relationships. To then offer a quality educational model not based on lecture but on an experiential model takes more time then one hour.
C. Different Individual Needs.
D. Reducing the duplication of lessons.

Offering an Outstanding Program is Important But Still Not Enough
Did you ever see the movie "Field of Dreams"? "Build it and they will come." Quality programming matters. Still, it does not change the fact that the foundation for youth ministry is built on relationships. Quality programming alone is not enough. World class speakers and entertainers like Dayton Edmunds or Bob Morley are not enough. Youth always want to know two things: What are we doing but more importantly, who is going? Belonging comes before believing.

Leadership and Ownership
Being in a small group is today your best opportunity for leadership and ownership of our ministry together. In the past, we were able to hold monthly gatherings to develop youth leadership and ownership from a variety of perspectives. Through it all, youth learned to negotiate, compromise, listen and collaborate together on creating our ministry. That element has been missing from our ministry for the past couple of seasons. Again, the ever increasing demands of family schedules and commitments have made our attempts to gather for leadership team meetings unsatisfactory. We should be able to improve leadership and ownership with our new small group format.

Sr. High-The New World
Research shows that every church faces the challenge of keeping their Sr. High actively involved. And what that research also shows is that they need three things: A strong sense of belonging, meaning and competence. The typical Sunday morning and Sunday evening program doesn't provide those things in face of the demanding schedules of the 21st century family. Small groups are designed to meet those needs!