Hello, Oak Chapel friends,
We had a wonderful time of fellowship at the VBS block party on Sunday afternoon. The weather was perfect! I trust that you have taken time to enjoy the great weather this week and soak in the beauty of God’s creation.
This Sunday each of our two worship services will have a different focus. At the Heritage service at 8:30am, Pastor Jim is preaching on the call of Abraham. His sermon titled “The Humble Walk” is based on Genesis 12: 1 – 5. The theme of our Celebration Service at 10:30am is “Christmas in July” and Pastor Jim will preach on John 1: 1 – 14. We will even sing a few Christmas carols! I am excited about both services and look forward to seeing you there.
I also encourage you to join us for the combined adult summer Sunday School class in our air-conditioned Sing Mar Room at 9:30am. We have been studying Philip Yancey’s What’s So Amazing About Grace? This Sunday’s lesson, “The Art of Forgiving,” will explore biblical examples of forgiveness as well as more modern-day testimonies. Prayerfully consider joining us as we discuss this challenging topic. The lesson outline is attached for your review and consideration.
One day VBS with Mountain Vision
Next Saturday, August 3, a group will travel to Jacobsburg, OH to do a one-day VBS with Mountain Vision. We will do activities with the children, feed them lunch and hand out school supplies. We’d love to have you join us! We will leave the church parking lot at 6:30am and stop for breakfast along the way. We will be back around 4:30pm. Please see Ann Kahrig for more information or sign up on the attendance slips this Sunday.
Buy Way Sale
Clean out your closets and bring your gently used items to the church. The youth will host the Oak Chapel tables at the Lincoln Buy Way Sale, with proceeds going to their fund. The proceeds from the food sales will go the church general fund. There’s always a good time of fellowship under the ‘ol oak tree so come out and join us August 8, 9, and 10. We need some helping hands on Wednesday, August 7 at 6:30pm for set up, as well as cooking and serving hot dogs and other yummy food on Thursday and Friday (from 8am – 5pm) and Saturday (8am – 2pm). Please see Elizabeth Feldman for more information or sign up on the attendance slips this Sunday.
What Does It Mean to Be United Methodist?
Pastor Robin and Pam Domer will lead a one-day class on United Methodism on Saturday, August 24 from 9am – 2pm. This session will include a brief history of the church, our core beliefs, and helpful information about our church structure. Those interested in joining Oak Chapel UMC are especially invited to attend. And even if you have been a member of Oak Chapel or a United Methodist your whole life, this class will challenge you to live out our Wesleyan heritage. You won’t want to miss it! A light lunch will be provided and the day will end with the celebration of Holy Communion.
Backpack Blessing
In preparation for the start of school on Monday, August 19, we will have a backpack blessing during both worship services on Sunday, August 18. Invite your friends, neighbors, children, grandchildren or anyone else you know for this special time of prayer and blessing for the new school year. Pastor Robin will also begin a four-week sermon series, “A Fresh Start,” that day.
Study Opportunities Survey
Our Administrative Council recently completed the “Catch” Study. As we seek to become a more outwardly focused congregation, we would like to offer more opportunities for individual growth and renewal among our members. Please take a moment to complete this brief online survey to indicate your interest in such classes. We appreciate your time.
Mission Team
From August 4 – 9, Pete and Natalie Bunt, Kim and Pam Domer, and Pastor Robin will join with members of other churches in our Compass Group on a mission trip to Ocean, NJ to do relief / rebuild work necessary after Superstorm Sandy last Fall. The cost for each person is $325. Contributions to offset the cost of the trip would be appreciated. If you would like to support their work, please place your gift in the offering plate, noting its purpose.
Opportunities for Ministry Next Week
Sunday, 7/28 – Heritage Worship Service at 8:30am
Sunday School at 9:30am
Celebration Worship Service at 10:30am
Tuesday, 7/30 – Membership Care Committee at 7:00pm
Saturday, 8/3 – One-day VBS with Mountain Vision leaving at 6:30am
Weight Loss Support Group at 9:15am
It is a privilege to be your pastor and to serve among such an amazing community. See you in church!!
Grace and peace,
Pastor Robin