(Taken from Cross Keys--Photo courtesy of Ron Huffman)

MOUNTAIN ECHOES SEPT/OCT 2015

Keezletown United Methodist Church

Rev. T. Joel Robinette, Pastor 1456 Indian Trail Road Church phone: 269-8531 Keezletown VA 22832 Parsonage phone: 269-8405 Pastor’s email: joel robinette @hotmail.com Pastor’s Cell: 540-908-9482 Pastor’s office hours: Monday & Wednesday 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Keezletown UMC website: www.keezletownumc.com <+< <+< <+<

“I’m going to a special house: God’s. Care to join me? Church isn’t a museum for

good people; it should be an oasis, a haven, a hospital for the broken, guilty, needy,

sick, devastated, and hopeless. A home of love. You guys are more than welcome

to come.” Becky Ryman

SEPTEMBER EVENTS CALENDAR Sept 20 Sunday School 9:45 a.m. Worship 11:00 a.m.; Message: “Preserve” Blood Pressure checks after worship CAOS Youth Free Will Luncheon w/Christmas Card writing to follow Jesus’ Kids meet after lunch Sept 21 EMP 6:30 a.m. “Christian Believer” study 7:00 p.m. Sept 22 “Invitations of Jesus” Study at 10:00 a.m. UMM Fall Men’s Rally & Dinner at Mt. Tabor UMC at 6:30 p.m. Sept 23 Admin Council meeting 7:30 p.m. Sept 26 UMW Prayer Breakfast at Verona UMC at 9:00 a.m. Lay Servant Training at Manor Memorial Serve Salvation Army Ruritan Chicken BBQ and yard sale Sept 27 Sunday School 9:45 a.m.; “Attendance/Recognition Sunday” Snacks and greetings between Sunday school and Worship Worship 11:00 a.m.; “ Sunday School Teacher/Leader Recognition” during worship; Message: “Integrity” Nominations meeting after worship Church picnic at Camp Overlook sponsored by UMM at 4:30 p.m. Sept 28 EMP 6:30 a.m. “Christian Believer” study 7:00 p.m. Sept 29 “Invitations of Jesus” Study at 10:00 a.m.

OCTOBER EVENTS CALENDAR Oct 1-4 Men’s Emmaus walk at Camp Overlook Oct 1 UMW meet 7:30 p.m. Oct 3 Choir practice 9:30 a.m. Oct 4 Sunday School 9:45 a.m. Worship 11:00 a.m.; Message: “Faith” Jesus’ Kids meet after worship to prepare for October 11th District Delegate to Annual Conference applications due to Joel Thanksgiving Service Planning meeting at 3:00 p.m. Oct 5 EMP 6:30 a.m. “Christian Believer” study 7:00 p.m. Oct 6 “Invitations of Jesus Study” at 10:00 a.m. Oct 7 225 Meeting 7:00 p.m. Oct 8-11 Women’s Emmaus Walk at Camp Overlook Oct 9 Newsletter items due Oct 10 Choir Practice 9:30 a.m. Women’s Health Seminar: “You’ve Got Permission” at Sentara RMH Oct 11 Sunday School 9:45 a.m.

Worship 11:00 a.m.; Message: “Live”; Jesus’ Kids will participate in service 225 Witnesses and Testimonials due to Pastor Joel Oct 12 EMP 6:30 a.m. “Christian Believer” study 7:00 p.m. Oct 13 “Invitations of Jesus Study” at 10:00 a.m. w/ lunch following Oct 15 District UMW Annual Meeting at Dayton UMC at 7:00 p.m. Oct 17 Choir practice 9:30 a.m. Oct 18 Sunday School 9:45 a.m. Worship 11:00 a.m.; Laity Sunday; Message: Tag Team Preaching Leaders/Volunteers Appreciation Dinner after worship Faithful Men perform at Verona UMC for WRE at 6:00 p.m. Oct 19 EMP 6:30 a.m. “Christian Believer” study 7:00 p.m. Church Charge Conference 7:00 p.m. “Joint Replacment: When Is the Right Time?” at Sentara RMH Oct 20 Bible study at 10:00 a.m. Oct 23 Sign up for attendance at 5 Talent Academy Oct 24 Choir Practice 10:30 a.m. Oct 25 Sunday School 9:45 a.m. Worship 11:00 a.m.; Message: “For Us All” Harvest Party at Ruritan Park at 2:00 p.m. Oct 26 EMP 6:30 a.m. “Christian Believer” study 7:00 p.m. Oct 27 Bible Study at 10:00 a.m. Oct 31 HALLOWEEN -- RESET CLOCKS –FALL BACK =============================================================================

UPCOMING EVENTS: CHURCH Nov 1st Fire Safety Program Nov 10th 5 Talent Academy at Bridgewater UMC Nov 22nd Community Thanksgiving Service CAOS YOUTH Nov 15th Youth lead the worship service, and work on mission projects for Cub Run

Elementary School and Operation Christmas Child UNITED METHODIST MEN Nov 6-8th UMM Retreat in Blackstone with Clarence Brown, speaker Dec 6th UMM Christmas Dinner at Blessings Lodge FIFTH SUNDAY CHANGE COLLECTIONS Nov 29th Collect for Henry Fork ==============================================================================SEPTEMBER BIRTHDAYS

Sept 1 Scott Sprague Sept 16 Jeanne Taylor Sept 2 Brandon Bowman Sept 17 Mason Pusey Sept 2 Ginny Bowman Sept 17 Emily Carr

Sept 2 Travis Martin Sept 17 Mason Pusey Sept 2 Brooke Milligan Sept 17 Amanda Siler Sept 3 Leonard Williams Sept 17 Jan Sites Sept 7 Nora Grace Jarrels Sept 18 Leigha Dillard Sept 9 Mary Liskey Combs Sept 20 Michael Taylor Sept 9 Sean Zylick Sept 21 Frank Baker Sept 9 Julie Zylich Sept 23 Andrew Coffman Sept 11 Tammy Layman Sept 25 Jared Martin Sept 11 Jordan Shafer Shoemaker Sept 26 David Miller Sept 13 Harrison Bowman Sept 29 Lorrene Armentrout Sept 13 Cheryl Carr Sept 29 Joseph Botkin Jr SEPTEMBER ANNIVERSARIES Sept 9, 2006 Mark & Becky Ramsey 9 years Sept 13, 2003 Ryan & Kathryn Pusey 12 years Sept 25, 1945 Conrad & Dorothy Deeds 70 years Sept 30, 2006 Steve & Beth Morris 9 years ============================================================================== OCTOBER BIRTHDAYS Oct 1 Neil Sacra Oct 10 Joel Robinette Oct 1 Haiden Dillard Oct 10 Peggy Smith Oct 3 James Cole Oct 15 Phillip Carr Oct 4 Cheryl Foley Oct 18 Toni Underwood Oct 4 Sarah Crisman Oct 19 Hannah Bowman Oct 5 Randy Clatterbuck Oct 19 Al Liskey Oct 5 Mike Heishman Oct 22 Mike Summers Oct 8 Marie Siler Oct 26 Cheryl Dillard Oct 8 Ellen Layman Oct 30 Jenny Coffman Reed Oct 9 Diane Williams Oct 30 Sherry Summers Oct 9 Morgan Baker Oct 31 Ryan Pusey Oct 10 Patti Bowman

OCTOBER ANNIVERSARIES Oct 3, 1970 Leonard & Diane Williams 45 years Oct 3, 1992 Scott & Michelle Dodrill 23 years Oct 4, 2014 Justin & Kristin (Summers) Roach 1 year Oct 7, 1978 Darryl & Tanya Eppard 37 years Oct 12, 1968 Jim & Carol Dillard 47 years Oct 12, 2014 Kevin & Holly (Sacra) Mason 1 year Oct 15, 1977 Bob & Susan Threewitts 38 years Oct 15, 2011 Matthew & Amber Coffman 4 years Oct 23, 2004 Brandon & Ginny Bowman 11 years ==============================================================================

CELEBRATING 40 YEARS OR MORE: CONGRATULATIONS to church family

couples that have been married 40 years or more in September and October:

Leonard and Diane Williams on October 3rd, 45 years

Jim and Carol Dillard on October 12th, 47 years

Conrad and Dorothy Deeds on September 25th, 70 years

Best wishes from your KUMC family. May your love continue for years to come

NEW BABY: The church family is proud and elated to welcome Samuel Ford Ramsey,

born August 12th at 8:33 a.m. weighing 8 lbs. 13 oz. and 21 1/4 inches long. He is the son

of Becky and Mark, brother of Kate, and grandson of Wes and Ann Ford. Congratulations!

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October is Pastor Appreciation Month Pray for your Pastor, and remember to thank them. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Annual Picnic: Sept. 27th @ 4:30 p.m., Camp Overlook, bring food and an appetite

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“Remembering 9/11” (unknown) As the soot and dirt and ash rained down, We became one color. As we carried each other down the stairs of the burning building, We became one class. As we lit candles of waiting and hoping, We became one generation. As the firefighters and police officers fought their way into the inferno, We became one gender. As we fell to our knees in prayer for strength, We became one faith. As we whispered or shouted words of encouragement, We spoke one language. As we gave our blood in lines a mile long, We became one body. As we mourned together the great loss, We became one family. As we cried tears of grief

and loss, We became one soul. As we retell with pride the sacrifice of heroes, We become one people.

========================================================== SERVICE TO OTHERS “I truly believe you can do whatever you want to do, the right timing is everything. Our

universe, our creator has a plan for your destiny, but you will have to be patient to see.”

Jordan (Shafer) Shoemaker BACKPACKS Hello Friends: Hard as it is to believe, a new school year is now upon us and that means it is time to gear up once again for our food backpacks that are provided to Cub Run students in need. I have met with the guidance counselor at the school and it looks like we will once again be providing food bags to approximately 60 students. The only way for this program to continue and succeed is through the care and generosity of those willing to sponsor a backpack. I hope that you will once again consider sponsoring a backpack for one of these students. The cost to sponsor a backpack is $25.00 a month for 7 months or $175.00 total for the school year. This is a slight decrease from the cost

last year as we have been able to budget some remaining funds from last year into this year. So while many other cost are going up - gas and backpacks are going down :) Would you please consider sponsoring a backpack this year? If so - checks can be made payable to KUMC Backpack Project and can be mailed to Jenny Dillard, 3553 Keezletown Rd, Keezletown, VA 22832. If you would like more information about the program, please feel free to contact me at 269-6409. Thank you for your support of these wonderful children!! Jenny, KUMC Backpack Coordinator

Parsonage Work

We are doing work on the church parsonage, our pastoral family home. New flooring, insulation,

and drywall will be added to two bedrooms, as well as new flooring for the dining room. We

have discovered the roof needs replacing, too. Donations toward these improvements and repairs

would be welcome.

FLOWERS ARE NEEDED Flowers are a great way to say that you care. Why not show this by supplying flowers for the altar one Sunday in the upcoming months. It can be for a special occasion or just because…. the flower calendar is posted on the door in the narthex so please take time to check what dates are available. Thanks so much for your help. Any questions, please see Ann Ford. FIFTH SUNDAY CHANGE COLLECTION THANK YOU! THANK YOU! Your wonderful generosity resulted in the collection of $150.00 for the Harrisonburg District Mission Children’s Clothes Closet. Our thanks also to Kendra Dodrill, Leigha Dillard, and Emily Carr for sorting and wrapping the money. GREAT JOB, ALL! Gathering Breakfast items There is a box in the narthex for breakfast items that will be collected throughout the year for the Massanutten Food Pantry. Randy Clatterbuck has agreed to head this up and take the collections to MFP when the container is full. Please help feed the hungry. Thanks.

3rd Annual Golf Tournament at Packsaddle The 3rd Annual KUMC Paddlesaddle Ridge Par-3 18 hole Golf Challenge was held on Sunday, September 13th at 2:00 p.m., with 49 players participating, a few guests cheering them on, and a number of church family volunteers aiding with registration, and the dinner that followed. Many thanks to the 37 sponsors that sponsored the 18 holes. Although cloudy for part of the afternoon, everyone enjoyed the fresh air and sunshine, and laughter was heard throughout the course and at the meal. Joe Liskey had the grill going with steak and chicken, and the church family provided other picnic items for an enjoyable meal. The group was then treated to an informative question and answer period with Coach Sonny Randall, after which his former player, Butch Strawderman, gave a heart-felt inspirational speech that told of Coach’s integrity, perseverance, and tenacity with his players, his work, and his life. Butch then presented the group with a $500.00 donation and thanked them for their work with the Salvation Army. Jim Brown then announced the winners: 1st place, Ed Hottle; low score for women, Dottie Miller; closest to the pin on designated holes: Wade Armentrout, Will Armentrout, and Brandon Bowman; lowest number of putts: Ed Hottle and Carolyn Baker; longest putts: Jim Brown and Carolyn Baker. Although he did not look disappointed, Joel did not win highest score this year. Jim announced that, after expenses, the net appears to be between $3500 and $4000 for the Salvation Army. Thank you to Jim Brown, Jim Dillard, Neil Sacra, and Joe Liskey, the tournament committee, and to all who participated. Your day of fun will be many days of comfort for a Salvation Army resident. God bless you.

Ruritan Club

The Ruritan Club will hold a chicken BBQ and yard sale on September 26th at the Ruritan Hall. OPERATION CHRISTMAS CHILD

Time to start buying the supplies to fill shoe boxes for OCC. If you need help filling boxes,

please see Jackie Liskey or Lynn Siler. Collection date is in November. KUMC Facebook Page

Check out, and “like” the Keezletown United Methodist Church Facebook page. Take pictures and tag the church in the posts; any items/events you think should be included, please let me know. Please remember this is a "Public" page so the world can see everything posted. If you see an event, feel free to invite friends, or share. Thanks. ~ Beth Morris SALVATION ARMY MEAL Several members of the UMM, wives and church family, met Joe and “the grill” at the Salvation Army on Saturday, August 29th to provide a picnic supper for the folks there. Joe fixed pineapple chicken sandwiches and hamburgers, Carol made macaroni salad, Wes had corn on the cob, and Frank provided fresh tomatoes. Everyone had a great time, enjoyed the beautiful evening, the good food, and the fellowship. The residents even wanted Joe to leave the grill. If you have not experienced the joy you can receive from serving those less fortunate, you are invited to help. The Adult Sunday school class spear-heads serving the Salvation Army patrons a meal on the 4th Saturday of each month. Please see Carol Dillard or Joe Liskey if you wish to help. Good Folks to Bless There is a list of some good folks in Jackie’s room, some church members, some friends of the church, connected to our church that it would be good to bless with a visit, card, telephone call, or to help out. Please indicate if you have reached out to them so others can know who else might need a blessing.

IF YOU LIVE IN THE SOUTH YOU KNOW:

A possum is a flat animal that sleeps in the middle of the road.

There are 5,000 types of snakes and 4,998 of them live in the South.

There are 10,000 types of spiders. All of them must live in the South.

If it grows, it'll stick ya. If it crawls, it'll bite cha.

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MISSIONS Wes Ford’s Belize Trip Summary In July 2015, Wes returned to Belize along with 5 others, to a new camp leadership with many plans. While there they worked on the 3rd phase of the High School, did windows, visited orphanages and immigrant areas, passed out fool, and interacted with the people more. The students were very appreciative for all that was being done. What we think is important, changes, when you visit an impoverished people. Brian and Davis Kelley’s trip to Rakhiv, Ukraine summary Brian gave a slide show of their trip, which showed the impoverished people, and the harshness of the terrain in which they live. He introduced Steele and Alice Dunn, their missionary friends. This area is very poor, with high unemployment, drug use, gypsies, drunkenness, and terrible medical care (Doctors buy their certificates). While there, he was able to give training on drug abuse, and talk with many of the local youth. He and Davis adventured out on a 30 mile hiking trip, covering very adverse terrain, and even one night, getting a cow in their tent. Brian has determined that he still hates camping, but is very eager to help Steele and Alice as much as he can to continue to bring Jesus to those that need Him most.

Davis witnessed that God seems more alive in Rakhiv then in many ministries he has seen here in the US. Both were very grateful for the support and prayers of their church family.

CONFERENCE KITS

We are still collecting supplies for all conference kits. Items may be brought in throughout the year and

will be stored for the next year’s conference kits. Thank you so much for all of the generosity and

packages we have received thus far. See Sherry Summers or Chris Cole if you have items.

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PRAYER TIME

A powerful prayer from Girlfriends in God: Dear Lord, I realize that I often think my

prayer needs to tell You the answer and instruct You in how to accomplish it. I embrace

the release of knowing that when I bring You the need, You have the answer. I confess

that I am empty unless You fill me. I am weak unless You strengthen me. I am helpless

unless You come to my rescue. In Jesus’ name, Amen. MONDAY MORNING PRAYER Every Monday morning at 6:30 a.m., here at the church, church family meet to pray for the church, each other, the sick, the world, and any needs requested. Come as you are led or pray at home during this time with the Early Morning Prayer group or “EMP”. For info, please see BJ Smith or contact him at 908-0061 or smithb818@comcast.net. YOU CAN DO IT FOR A WEEK! What? Pray for someone. Please consider placing your name, or the name of someone you

know that needs prayer in the Prayer baskets passed on Sunday mornings. Then, just pick a name

out of the basket as you leave, and pray for that person all week. You will make a difference in

your prayer partner’s life for that week. If you miss picking up a name, please give me a call and

I will see that you get one. Diana

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Sign outside college cafeteria: "Shoes are required to eat in cafeteria."

Underneath sign someone wrote: "Socks may eat wherever they like."

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WORSHIP TIME SUNDAY SCHOOL SUNDAY

Let’s celebrate Sunday school! Join us on Sunday, September 27th, for attendance recognition

during Sunday School Opening, followed by snacks between Sunday school and Worship, and

teacher/leader recognitions during Worship. Classes are available for all ages, so please join us

on Sunday mornings at 9:45 a.m. as we worship the Lord. - Michele

Encounter A new worship time for children in grades 1-5 will follow the children’s time on Sunday mornings (except the 1st Sunday of each month). Children will ENCOUNTER God thru worship songs, prayer, the Bible, and other activities. Jenn Robinette is coordinating this new ministry. Meeting the Need Sermons God used Nehemiah to meet many needs that the returned exiles faced in Jerusalem. We continue to look at how God used Nehemiah and consider how God uses us to meet needs today in a six week sermon series that began September 6th.

Worship CDs for Homebound

CDs of the weekly worship service for homebound folks who do not have internet access, are available. If

you would like to receive, or can assist in delivering CD’s, please contact Pastor Joel. If you would like to

deliver a CD to a homebound person, you could take one and a worship bulletin to them. Please indicate

on the “Good Folks to Visit” chart (in Jackie’s room) to whom you delivered a CD.

Word on the Website If you miss a Sunday, want to review, or wish you could share a recent sermon with a friend, the last four Sunday scripture and sermons are now available online on the church website at www.keezletownumc.com for your listening enjoyment.

CHURCH SIGNS

You may party in hell, but you will be the Bar-B-Que.

God didn’t create anything without a purpose, but mosquitoes come close.

Friends Don’t let friends go to hell.

Walmart isn’t the only saving place. ============================================================================== STUDY OF THE WORD “Faith—Depending on God”-during Sunday school The "New Kids on the Block" class, a younger adult class that meets in the library, began a 9

session study on September 6th on "Faith- Depending on God". All are welcome.

“The Fruits of the Spirit”-during Sunday school

The Adult class, led by Mac Coffman, meeting in the social hall, began studying “The Fruits of

the Spirit” on August 31st. All are welcome to study with us. A “Disciple’s Path” Class-during Sunday school Pastor Joel is leading “A Disciple’s Path” class during Sunday school that began September 13th and will continue thru October 25th for folks new to KUMC, and folks that desire to deepen their relationship with Christ and the church, as well as folks who are considering joining the KUMC family. See Pastor Joel to join the class. “Invitations of Jesus” Study-Tuesday mornings

“Invitations of Jesus”, a 6 week, Tuesday morning study, began September 8th at 10:00 a.m.

Pastor Joel leads this study of our response to the invitations of Jesus, by considering the

invitations He offers in five dimensions of life, and where Christ is touching your life, calling

you to a deeper relationship with God, self, and neighbor. Please see Pastor Joel to participate.

“Christian Believer” Study-Monday nights “Christian Believer”, a 30 session study, began on September 14th, meeting on Monday evenings at 7:00 p.m. This is a study of Christian beliefs and how they came to be from scripture and history, including daily readings from the Bible, Christian writings and historical documents, videos, and a weekly group discussion. 5 Talent Academy: Faith Development

The 5 Talent Academy, being held Tuesday, November 10th from 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at

Bridgewater UMC, is one of our Virginia Conference’s best programs for making local church

ministry more vital. Rev. James Harnish will be speaker at this event on Faith Development,

emphasizing God’s grace, and how grace comes through small group ministries. Funds through

our church continuing education may help with registration. Sign up with Pastor Joel by October

23rd if you would like to go.

IF YOU LIVE IN THE SOUTH YOU KNOW:

People actually grow, eat, and like okra.

“Fixinto” is one word. It means I'm going to do that.

Iced tea is appropriate for all meals and you start drinking it when you're two, and we do

like tea with our sugar.

Backwards and forwards means I know everything about you.

The word “jeet” is actually a question meaning, 'Did you eat?'

You don't have to wear a watch, because it doesn't matter what time it is, you work until

you're done or it's too dark to see. ==============================================================================

DISTRICT Harrisonburg District Mission Center Clothes Closet

The HDMCCC at Cedar Grove is open every 2nd and 3rd Wednesday, 10:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. This

wonderful ministry, who has provided clothing for 44 less fortunate families (155 children) in

our community, is in need of volunteers, and donations of children’s clothes, especially girls’

sizes birth-24 months. Contact Artie Frederick by e-mail: dfaf5x7@comcast.net if you can help.

District Fall Men’s Rally & Dinner

On September 22nd at 6:30 p.m. at Mt. Tabor UMC, we will be blessed to have Pastor Alvin

West as guest speaker for the evening, with music from special guests.

CAMP OVERLOOK Kingsway Christmas Christmas may be six months away, but we have to plan ahead. Kingsway needs items for Inmate Christmas such as chapstick, 6 oz size toothpaste any kind in plastic tube, 5 x 8 mini notepads (must have wide binding at top and #2 yellow pencils unsharpened. Last year we provided 4,000 inmate Christmas bags that were greatly appreciated by inmates. If you or your church group can begin collecting now it will be greatly appreciated. Thank you for your support. Louise Jennings, Director

“There’ll be days I lose the battle; Grace says that it doesn’t matter ‘cuz the cross already

won the war.” Katlyn Williams (a former JMU student that attended KUMC) ============================================================================== CHURCH ITEMS Nurture and Education Committee—Fire Safety Program

Mark your calendars now to join the Nurture/Education Committee on Sunday, November 1st for a Fire Safety Program. Do you know how to operate a fire extinguisher? Do you know what to do if there is a fire emergency in your home? Do you have a fire escape route for your family? Steve Morris will be helping us with this program – more information will be coming soon. This program is not just for kids – it’s open to the entire church. From the Trustees The parsonage underwent renovations September 9th & 10th, with two of the bedrooms having the plaster removed, insulation put in and drywall installed. Those rooms got new laminate

flooring, along with the dining room. Two holes in the parsonage metal roof were discovered in August as chimney covers were installed. After the initial patch, we will have to wait and see how much of the roof will need to be replaced, following a mason repairing the chimney. 225 Committee

We met September 2nd and different individuals gave updates. There will be a bulletin insert,

with prices, for purchasing the light blue “KUMC est. 1791” shirts beginning in October and

running through November 8th. Ann Ford and Jan Shafer will be setting up a table in the

narthex to accept order forms and payment. Payment will be due when you order. Delivery will

take approximately two weeks. Printed, satin ribbons, with our four special Sundays in 2016,

have arrived and will be distributed in December. The congregation will be asked to contribute

any pictures (especially OLD ones) for a power point presentation. Each and every person is

asked to give a faith testimonial (short or long) to Pastor Joel by mid October which he will

compile into a devotional celebrating our 225 years of Methodism in Keezletown. Next meeting

will be October 7th at 7:00 p.m.

225th Testimonies and Witness

Keezletown UMC will be celebrating 225 years in 2016. Pastor Joel would like to begin

collecting brief or long testimonies and witness from our congregation. Where have you seen

God at KUMC? How did someone from KUMC live their faith that made a difference to you?

What made you feel welcome? Why are you still joining in Christian discipleship here? What did

your small group leader, friend, or pastor say that opened your eyes to new things? The 225

Committee will probably incorporate these into a history or devotional for 2016. Please submit

your testimonies and times you have witnessed grace through KUMC, our people, and ministries,

to Pastor Joel by October 11th. Please include a scripture from the Bible with them if there is one

that relates to your story. I believe the stories of what Jesus has been up to can transform lives in

2016. Please share your story or many stories soon!

Administrative Council Council met on August 12th with 8 members present. Chris reported profit on Lawn Party to be $3,418.10, of which $3000.00 would go to Camp Overlook to complete the obligation; the balance was approved to be placed in the Camp Scholarship funds for next years’ campers. Trustees reported repairs to be made to the childrens’ bedrooms in the parsonage and replacement of the dining room floor. There will also be nine short curb retainers placed in the spaces at the fence to help with parking. Samuel Ramsey’s birth was announced. Upcoming events were the UMM church picnic, the UMM tenderloin dinner, and the Harvest Party. Tanya reported on the 225 celebration and showed the shirt that is being sold. Joel reported three new classes beginning in September; that Wes, Davis, and Brian would all give reports on their mission trips on August 23rd; that Rev. Dave Nankivell will be preaching at St Paul UMC in Elkton the second Sunday of each month; that we are blessed to have five lay servants, and two more in training. The Thanksgiving service, to be held at KUMC, is scheduled for Sunday, November 22nd. Next Council meeting is September 9th at 7:30 p.m. Appreciation Luncheon There will be a “Thank You” Appreciation luncheon to recognize all leaders and volunteers in the church family on October 20th, after the worship service. Charge Conference Date Set The Charge Conference for Keezletown UMC will be Monday, October 19th at 7:00 p.m.

District Superintendent Rev. Tommy Herndon will be presiding at this meeting, where we

celebrate what Christ has been doing in our midst and plans for ministry, budgets, leadership,

and mission in 2016. We will hear about the new Harrisonburg District Mission Center which

houses the Children’s Clothing Closet at the conference.

District Delegates to Virginia Annual Conference

Every year our Harrisonburg District elects and helps pay the way for district delegates to the

Virginia Annual Conference, which will be June 17-19, 2016, in Roanoke. If you would like to

apply to be a delegate, please see Pastor Joel for an application form. Last year our church sent 5

delegates to conference and one of those was elected at district conference. Please turn in

completed forms to Pastor Joel by October 4th or get them to the district office. Delegates will be

selected at the Harrisonburg District Conference on November 15, 2015, at Bridgewater UMC.

Bulletin Art

Create a cover for the worship bulletin by signing up at the pastor’s office, and submit the

completed work one week prior to the Sunday it will appear in the bulletin.

KUMC Directory New members, please see Jan Shafer or call 269-2032, if you wish to receive a church directory. Keezletown UMC Christmas CD’s and Ornaments Christmas CD’s and Church building ornaments are still available.

IF YOU LIVE IN THE SOUTH YOU KNOW:

You don't PUSH buttons, you MASH ‘em.

Y’all is singular. All y’all is plural.

You only own five spices: salt, pepper, mustard, Tabasco and ketchup.

The local papers cover national and international news on one page, but require 6 pages for

local high school sports, the motor sports, and gossip. ============================================================================

DALE’S CORNER by Dale Dodrill The UM Men sponsored the 3rd Annual Golf Tournament on Sunday, September

13th. Revenue from this project will help provide two things we often take for

granted, a warm bed and meals for residents at Salvation Army in

Harrisonburg. Jim Brown, chaired this event, and invited Sonny Randall to

speak prior to the awards ceremony. His comments were brief and he answered

questions. Following his remarks, Butch Strawderman (Broadway High School

graduate and former college player for Mr. Randall) spoke of how Coach

Randall changed and influenced his life and the lives of other players.

Butch's tribute to Mr. Randall spoke volumes about him as a person. As I

reflect on Butch's remarks, I wonder, how often do we tell others how they

have helped us on life's journey while they are living? Or, do we just

take for granted that somehow they know?

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As a guitarist, I play many gigs. Recently I was asked by a funeral director to play at a

graveside service for a homeless man. He had no family or friends, so the service was to

be at a pauper’s cemetery in the back country. As I was not familiar with the backwoods, I

got lost. I finally arrived an hour late and saw the funeral guy had evidently gone and the

hearse was nowhere in sight. There were only the diggers and crew left and they were

eating lunch. I felt badly and apologized to the men for being late. I went to the side of

the grave and looked down and the vault lid was already in place. I didn’t know what else to

do, so I started to play. The workers put down their lunches and began to gather around. I

played out my heart and soul for this man with no family and friends. I played like I’ve

never played before for this homeless man. And as I played ‘Amazing Grace,’ the workers

began to weep. They wept, I wept, we all wept together. When I finished I packed up my

guitar and started for my car. Though my head hung low, my heart was full. As I opened

the door to my car, I heard one of the workers say, “I never seen nothin’ like that before

and I’ve been putting in septic tanks for twenty years.” Apparently, I’m still lost… ============================================================

HEALTH Blood Pressure/Checks and Health Questions

Parish Nurse, Carol Sacra, reminds everyone that on the 3rd Sunday of every month, she will be administering Blood Pressure Checks in the Sunday school room behind the organ after worship. If you have any concerns, blood pressure, or otherwise, with your health, please feel free to use this time (or anytime the need arises) to talk with her. SENTARA RMH UPCOMING HEALTH SESSIONS October 10th Women’s Health Seminar: “You’ve Got Permission” October 19th Joint Replacment: When Is the Right Time? WEAR GOLD FOR A CHILD September is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, a time to honor and remember children and families affected. Every day, approximately 43 kids are diagnosed with cancer, the same number that a school bus holds. Childhood cancer support has not reached the same national level as other cancer awareness campaigns. With gold as the national color for childhood cancer, a national campaign will raise much-needed awareness by encouraging people to take action, ultimately leading to new cancer therapies and bringing us closer to cures.

IN YOUR CORNER” by Carol Sacra, RN, PN The Healing Power of Laughter Scientific evidence has shown that laughter helps people breathe easier, massages the heart and other vital organs, releases disease-fighting cells in the immune system, quickens the pulse, stimulates the cardiovascular system, and produces an increased flow in infection-fighting proteins in saliva. A positive outlook also guards against illness and may increase longevity. Scientists now connect pessimism not only with depression, but consider it a risk factor for disease, with pessimists more likely to develop physical illnesses when stressed, and take longer to recover after surgery. Children are naturally cheerful. Psychologists speculate that their emotional buoyancy may be part of our species’ survival mechanism, protecting them from disease until they reach puberty. Optimism may have helped preserve the species in prehistoric times. Realism saved cave men and women from being gobbled by tigers, but without an optimistic sense of adventure, they would never have ventured away from the cave. “A cheerful heart is a good medicine, but a downcast spirit dries up the bones.” Prov 17:22 ====================================================================================

IF YOU LIVE IN THE SOUTH YOU KNOW:

Everyone you meet is a Honey, Sugar, Miss (first name) or Mr.(first name)

You think that the first day of deer season is a national holiday.

You know what a “hissy fit” is.

Fried catfish is the other white meat. (Just for you Phil Carr)

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CHILDREN, YOUTH, MEN, WOMEN AND FAMILY JESUS’ KIDS Jesus’ Kids will now be collecting gently worn winter children’s clothing, and baby and small children accessories to donate to the HD Children’s Center. See Jeanine if you have items. They plan to meet once a month, as well as planned activities during the year. For info, contact Brandon Bowman (820-4472) or Jeanine Underwood (246-1182) CAOS YOUTH

CAOS Youth met on August 23rd, planned activities for the next few months, made some great

looking lid art projects, and enjoyed CiCi’s pizza. September will be a full month for us: we will

meet on September 13th to go to MORE, we will host a freewill offering lunch on September

20th, prior to the Christmas card kick-off, and we will provide the drinks for the UMM picnic at

Camp Overlook on September 27th. We will help lead the Worship Service on November 15th,

and that afternoon we will work on mission projects for Cub Run Elementary School and

Operation Christmas Child. UNITED METHODIST WOMEN The UMW met on September 3rd with 13 members present. Faye Crowe presented a program on hospitality. After the financial report, the group was informed that we were pledging $100.00 to support a hole in the golf tournament by the UMM, and that $150.00 was raised on change collection Sunday for HDMCCC. We agreed to raise our yearly pledge by $5.00. Chris reported on going to HDMCCC to help and would like to see the group take a month to volunteer. The donation page was passed for the Ruritan meal on September 14th. A cookbook finalization date will be set and announced. There are a few white table clothes missing. We will spearhead the finger food and punch refreshments after the Thanksgiving service. The yearly UMW report was finished and the District Prayer Breakfast was announced. Next meeting date is October 1st at 7:30 p.m. UNITED METHODIST MEN The UMM met August 16th to finalize plans for the August 29th serving of the Salvation Army, and the September 13th 3rd Annual Golf Tournament at Packsaddle, as well as mowing and mulching, providing a second Salvation Army Meal, and the UMM sponsored Church picnic at Camp Overlook on September 27th. Due to many activities in September, the October meal has been cancelled, and the next scheduled meeting will be in October.

Do you ever feel like the voices in your head are fighting? Your imaginary friend is running with

scissors? And one of your personalities has wandered off? Welcome to life some days. =====================================================================================

THANK YOU NOTES: Thank you to the children for listening, sharing, and being so good; to Kahlyn and Ginny for helping; to Haiden for correcting me when I didn’t read the right word in the story book; to Leigha, Kendra, and Emily for counting the money; for Steve for wanting a snack and making me laugh; and for all of you who entrusted me with your children for Children’s Church on August 30th. I have been jokingly saying I’m going to get a T-shirt that says, “I Survived Children’s Church at KUMC”. I love them all, and they were very good. Diana

Dear KUMC UMW, Thank you so much for the gift certificate to Blessings! I appreciate the

support each of you have given me throughout my life (as I have known most of my church

family that long) Since I will be commuting to college, I look forward to seeing y’all (some of

the best role models) in the future. Love, Makenna

Dear Folks, again—another year has come and gone. I had a very good year. Like before, I want to say Thanks for being my church. Like I said before, I don’t know how I deserved all the nice things people do for me. I got about twenty-one cards (birthday cards), among other things. All the things people say about me! I don’t deserve it. I look forward to working with my church, doing what I can to make my church better. When you all pray for me, I know I will succeed. Thank you for everything. In Jesus—Don (Clatterbuck)

The Church Family Remembers: Judy A Hill: wife of Billy Hill, daughter of Calvin Armentrout, mother of three daughters Jim Campbell: It will soon be September 10th and a year will have unbelievably passed since Jim

died. All those firsts will soon be complete. My heart is filled with wonderful joy in beautiful memories,

but still aches as you can imagine. I want to thank each of you for your faithful presence in our lives

throughout this year as in times past. How would someone face this kind of change without the love and

prayers of special family and friends? I had two quilts made from Jim’s t-shirts (and a few of mine) to have,

to give to Keri and Kris and eventually go to Riley and Paige. That has been a good decision as they mean

a lot to us and otherwise would have just been thrown away. They made the quilter feel like she was on a

great trip with us. Traveling to Norway with the Hutchesons was a new and beautiful experience for me.

Being with good friends from Jacksonville in Canaan Valley in WVA and at Sherando Lake in VA was a

wonderful time of remembering and renewal. I loved being able to camp in the van at Cades Cove by

myself and to teach a young family how to do the backwards race. Coming home by way of Deep Creek

(all the tubers were in school!) and a visit in Brevard with the Whittles finished my summer. Kris hiked the

AT in Shenandoah National Park (over 100 miles) and Keri, Paul, Riley and Paige completed a four night

hut to hut hike on the AT in New Hampshire. We all are “keepin’ the faith” in our own ways, remembering

always, finding strength that God provides. I am often sent reminders of the JOY story and find it

comforting and reassuring that we can, in everything, give thanks. Have a wonderful fall. Love, Evalyn

Keepin the Faith for Jim . Don't postpone JOY!

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PASTOR’S CHAT May 13, 1969—not long after the joining of Keezletown Evangelical United Brethren and Keezletown Methodist Churches into Keezletown United Methodist Church—some folks came together to do refinishing work in the parsonage which they now shared. These folks, united in Christ, congregation, and community, recorded their names on a piece of wall that was covered over: Mensel Dean, Conrad Deeds, Owen Derrer, Jim Marston, Noland Suter, Elmer Michael, and Al Liskey. September 9, 2015 that record was uncovered while doing some demolition in two bedrooms at the parsonage so new insulation and dry wall can be installed. It was a great revelation. Those folks had been doing 46 years ago what our congregation is doing today. Caring for the parsonage to bless the church’s pastoral ministry, bless the parsonage family, and the future parsonage families and pastoral ministry of KUMC. Those have been my son’s and daughter’s rooms for more than 3 years now and they love their rooms. It was a blessing to reflect upon the people who helped make those great rooms in 1969 and the people making them great rooms for 2015 and beyond. That 5-13-1969 record was a reminder for me; our lives are held together and blessed by the grace of God and other people. Is there a reminder for you? Do you have a home, family,

job, school, church, or memento that reminds you how you are lifted up in the grace of Jesus Christ through people who share God’s love? I am in awe and appreciation for God’s provision. Thank you God and thank you people who share the love of Christ! Pastor Joel ==============================================================================

ON A PERSONAL NOTE Fall is coming, as inevitably as the sun rises every morning, whether you can see it or not. I have so enjoyed sitting on the porch in the coolness of the morning or the evening, enjoying the time with my husband or my cats, but mostly with the Lord. Feeling the fresh air of the Holy Spirit wash over me brings a certain relief, like my sins are being blown away. Listening to the birds chirp their thank you reminds me that I should too. I’m going to miss that time; it’s just not the same when you are inside the house. Until the time comes that I have to put the chairs and the swing away, I will sit and swing, and look at the puffy cloud faces, and see the tree tops move, and the breeze touch my face, and even sometimes, feel the rain softly on my face and arms, and I will rejoice. I will rejoice that my God, my Father, is alive, and in those few moments He is touching me. Hallelujah.

Diana

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EDITOR’S NOTE

I am grateful to all who contribute, and encourage each of you to be a part of this,

YOUR newsletter, by submitting items of interest to the Church family. There is an

envelope labeled “Newsletter Items” in the room between the sanctuary and the

hallway. Please feel free to e-mail me, hand them to me, or leave them in the envelope.

The October deadline for submissions is October 9th. I welcome your criticisms, your

submissions, and your suggestions. My home number is 269-8511 or e-mail me at

AntDyna@comcast.net. I hope that you enjoy reading it as much as I enjoy preparing it

for you. God bless you all.

Diana

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