VBS Weird is Wonderful Preview Party

Sunday, March 23 between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM

Kids, parents, and volunteers, you’re invited to a special VBS Weird is Wonderful Party, a preview of what will be happening at our Weird Animals Vacation Bible School this summer (June 15-19, evenings, and June 16-20, mornings)!

You can play games, make crafts, register early for Vacation Bible School, and have a light lunch. Drop in to the Family Life Center on Sunday, March 23 any time between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM.

You can sign up on the Opportunities Page or by contacting Nancy in the church office at nancy@epworth.com or 419.531.4236.

This summer’s VBS will teach kids about:

• Unconditional Love Meets Never-Ending Truth

• Weird Animals (including a visit from animals from the Toledo Zoo)

• Worship that Wows!

The

Epworth TowerEpworth United Methodist Church | 4855 W. Central Ave. | Toledo, OH 43615Church Phone: 419.531.4236 | Church Fax: 419.531.7487Website: www.epworth.com | E-mail: epworth@epworth.com

March 12, 2014

Jesus’ Love isOne-of-a-Kind!

Even though you’re different...

Jesus loves you!

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CondolencesThe Wilson family on the passing of Michele Wilson’s grandmother, Virginia May Roberts, on February 17.

Carol Williams-Young and family on the passing of her mother, Marilyn Williams, on February 28.

PERSONALS Epworth Electronic MailYou can now sign up to receive electronic mail from Epworth. An email newsletter is sent on a weekly basis that is user friendly. Just go to the subject you are interested in and click. This newsletter also gives you a link to the most current Tower. Get on this list today and keep current with all the Epworth activities!

To sign up, please e-mail caryn@epworth.com with “Epworth Electronic E-mail List” in the subject line.

To sign up for any obituary notifications, please e-mail with “Obituary Notifications E-mail List” in the subject line.

Copy of the Monthly CalendarIf you would like a hard copy of the monthly calendar, you can pick one up from the kiosk in the Narthex on Sundays or in the Church office during the week.

The calendar is always available on www. epworth.com.

WWW

Like us on Facebook!www.facebook.com/EpworthToledo

Follow us on Twitter!@EpworthToledo

Share your Epworth event photos with us!#EpworthToledo

Table of ContentsSunday Activities and Education.............................page 4-5 Project Feed 5000..........................................................page 7-8For Parents/Kids.................................................................page 9Treasurer’s Report..........................................................page 11Adult Singles......................................................................page 12Friends in Faith.................................................................page 12Health Ministries.............................................................page 14Easter Flowers Order Form.........................................page 15S.W.A.T. Activities......................................................back page

Church Office Hours

9:00 AM to 5:00 PM

PROJECT FEED 5000Volunteers Needed!

Community Outreach Committee is very excited to organize the 10th Anniversary of PROJECT FEED 5000!

However, the success of this project depends on the help of many volunteers. If you are interested in learning of the many ways in which you can help, please contact Susan Kanwal at: almatre@aol.com. You may also e-mail feed5000@epworth.com or call the the church office at 419.531.4236.

Please see the flyer on pages 7 & 8 (that can be torn out) for additional information and for a food list to take to the grocery. Let’s all work together to FEED 5000!

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THANKS! !Dear Epworth Friends,

We wish to thank our extended Epworth family for their love and support during my recent surgery and recovery. It’s amazing the differences phone calls and visits can make. We thank you sincerely.

With Christian Love,Jack and Carolyn Wells

Dear Epworth Friends,

I wish to express my sincere appreciation for all the prayers, cards, love, and support during my recent surgery. Each of you has been a blessing to me as I make progress in my recovery. I am truly blessed to be a part of this congregation.

Sincerely,Dave Mason

On behalf of the United Methodist Women, I would like to thank all of you who helped make our 10th Annual “Scrapbooking for Missions” a huge success! And what a success it was! We earned over $1200.00, and 100% of it goes to local missions! Because of all of your donations and help, we had no expenses. Whether you donated food for snacks or money to help buy the food needed for lunch and dinner, we couldn’t have done it without you. A special thanks to all of my volunteers who helped with set-up, clean-up, and in the kitchen. Especially Joe Jefferds and the Price family. They all went above and beyond the call of duty! I really enjoyed working with them all day! Thanks again, and I’m looking forward to next year!

Sincerely,Lisa Keaffaber

Furniture MinistryPickup Dates: March 15 and 22; Selection Saturday: March 15

Arrange a Donation Pickup: Call 567.694.3710

Volunteer as a Free Loader: Sign up on the Opportunities Page

Items Needed: COMFORTERS and BLANKETS (Twin/Full/Queen)!!Also, needed are beds, kitchen table and chair sets, and pots and pans.

Running Late?! Don’t forget to call!

REMINDER--For security reasons, the Central Avenue door is locked at 8:00 PM, Monday through Thursday, unless there is an all church event. If you will be coming to your meeting after 8:00 PM, please make prior arrangements for someone to let you in.

Auto Break-ins Occur EverywhereUnfortunately, no cars are immune from being the target of a car break-in, regardless of being parked at our home, the mall, movie theater, or restaurant, or even in the church parking lot. We like to consider our Epworth property to be “Holy Ground”, but thieves don’t honor our “Holy Ground” or consider our parking lots to be off-limits during the day or evenings.

So just a reminder for all of us, regardless of where we park our car, please place purses, packages, briefcases, laptops, cellphones, backpacks, and anything else of potential value in the trunk or in out-of-sight locations in your car so our chance of a car break-in is reduced.

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Volunteer on Sunday Mornings Love Our Lambs

The Preschool Wing needs loving arms and warm hearts to care for our 3, 4, and 5 year olds at 11:00. You can help with snack, read Bible stories, play games, and share your love of God. How can you GENEROUSLY impact a young child’s life? Easy-to-lead, hands-on materials are all ready and waiting for you. All we need is you! Call Mary in the Education office or sign up on the Opportunities Page.

Have you ever taught the children of Epworth in Sunday School?

No?? Have we got the opportunity for you! No experience needed

No age requirementNo supplies needed (they are all provided)

Substitute teachers (in case youcan’t be there each Sunday)

Immediate openings available!

• In the Kingdom (elementary) at 9:45, we need 2 teachers for April

• In the Preschool at 11:00, we need 1 teacher for April

• In W.O.W. (K-3rd grade) at 11:00, we need 3 teachers for April (one each Sunday)

Please sign up on the Opportunities Pageor call Dana in the education office at

419.531.4236 to fill these needs!

Baby Blessing MilestoneParents and babies up to one year old are invited Sunday, March 16 at 11:00 AM in Room 020 (the Volunteer Office).

Gather with other parents as we celebrate Epworth’s children, walk with you as you begin your child’s faith journey, and stand beside you as you write a blessing for your child.

A light brunch will be served. Siblings will be cared for during this time.

Please reply to Dana in the education office at 419.531.4236 or at dana@epworth.com.

Leaving No Youth BehindOne of our objectives in Epworth’s Student Ministries is to not leave any youth behind on any of our Youth Retreats and Mission Opportunities due to finances of a participant.

We’ve been able to offer financial scholarships to offset the registration costs for youth for a decade...a blessing that many churches have not been able to do.

Our Epworth Student Ministries have been the recipient of bequests and memorials over the years, but as one can imagine in our current economic climate, many families are missing a wage earner, and simply stated, many of our SWAT families have too much month left at the end of their money.

In 2013, Epworth SWAT Ministries were able to offer in excess of $7000.00 in scholarships to countless families with SWAT youth.

So, our “Leave No Youth Behind” Scholarship fund needs replenishment. Donations to assist in rebuilding our SWAT Scholarship Fund are greatly needed and appreciated. Checks can be mailed or placed in our Sunday Offerings or directed to Bob Knowles or Chuck Campos. We thank you for the awesome financial support of Epworth SWAT Student Ministries.

NEW Scripture by Heart Class!!Maybe in your exploration of spiritual gifts this month, you’ve learned your gifts include Creative Communication, Encouragement, Evangelism, Word of Knowledge, or Teaching. Or maybe you simply have a passion for the Word of God and are looking for a new way to learn it and convey it to others. Scripture by Heart is for you!

There are many different ways to learn scripture. We’ll work with all of them, and you just pick the methods that work best with your learning style. The most important part is prayerfully allowing the Holy Spirit to guide you.

Our next Scripture by Heart class takes place Saturday, April 12 from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM. If you have questions or would like to sign up for the class, contact Beth Irwin at beth@epworth.com or 419.531.4236.

If you have a short scripture that is close to your heart and would like to use it for practice during class, by all means, bring it with you.

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NURSERY & TODDLER• Childcare is available at 8:30, 9:45, and 11:00 in the nursery• Sing-n-Worship at 8:30, 9:45, and 11:00 in Room 110 - Our toddlers learn from lessons geared to

two year olds, which let them know how much we love them and how much God loves them.

PRE-SCHOOL• Play-N-Worship at 9:45 and 11:00 in Rooms 112 & 114 - Preschool children ages 3-5 (not yet in

kindergarten) are invited to join us Sunday morning in rooms 112 & 114 for Play-N-Worship. Each month the children will explore a new Bible Point through stories, songs, and play. The children will also memorize a Bible verse, learn an action prayer, and collect a Pennies for Jesus offering to buy children’s Bibles to send with our mission teams.

ELEMENTARY• Children, Grades K-5 at 9:45 - We begin in Room 205, “The Oasis” - Then we move to the Kingdom

room each week in small groups for more activities surrounding our basic truths and Bible stories. In MARCH we will be learning about FORGIVENESS: deciding that someone who has wronged you doesn’t have to pay. Our Learn to Serve Mission Project will be collecting money for children in Haiti so they can receive the therapy and support that they need.

• Sixth Grade S.L.A.M. at 9:45 in Room 206 (second floor in the Kingdom hallway)• Youth Donuts and the Bible at 9:45 - Junior High in Room 003 at the far end of the Family Life

Center; Senior High in Room 215. • Children, Grades K-3 at 11:00 WOW (Worship Our Way) in Room 205 - This class meets in Bible

Time Players (Room 205) directly following the Pastor’s Children’s Moment. Each week the children will learn about God’s love through age-appropriate lessons packed with hands-on learning through praise, worship, and prayer.

• Children, Grade 4 and up at 11:00 (“B’Tween Me & God”) - We invite kids grade 4 and up to join us in the sanctuary and worship. Sit together with a group of friends or join your family. Ask an usher for the special green “B’Tween Me & God” bulletin inserts created just for you each week. These sheets are filled with questions and insights to help engage you in worship. Remember, there are no right or wrong answers, and you don’t even need to turn these in to anyone at the end of the day because worship is B’Tween you and God!

ADULT• Adult Bible Study at 9:45 in Room 214 - We will be studying a seven part series entitled “The Three

Faiths of Jerusalem”. We are considering: “Do these religions, Jewish, Christian, and Muslim, have points of view in common? What are their differences? What can they show us about God?” Each session begins with a DVD presentation from the Day of Discovery series followed by discussion of the points made in the presentation. Grab a cup of coffee and join the lively discussions as together we develop a deeper understanding of the three faiths. Meet new friends on your journey. Know that you will be welcomed!

• Friends in Faith at 9:45 in Room 213 - We are studying Favorite Bible Passages by Brady Whitehead, Jr., and Howard Ham. This series covers 26 Favorite Bible Passages from the Old and New Testament. The series covers the words for Bible Times, Our Times, and Our Life so we will fully understand the scripture from multiple perspectives, especially how it applies to our life and current times.

• Coffee and Conversation Class at 9:45 in Room 020 - Please join us as we discuss Renting Lacy: A Story of America’s Prostituted Children by Linda Smith and Cindy Coloma.

• Not a Fan Bible Study at 9:45 in the Library (lower level by Central Avenue door) - All are welcome no matter where you are in your walk…God has something special for you in this study. If Jesus were to sit down with you right now and have a DTR (Define the Relationship) conversation, how would you respond? Are you truly his follower or just a fan---or perhaps someone who doesn’t even care about the difference? “Not a Fan” invites you to make Jesus not merely the object of your admiration, but the very center of your life. This is designed to be a 6 week study. We pray we will see you there!

• Sermon Notes at 11:00 in Room 214 - We are participating in the Lenten Study, The Way, by Adam Hamilton. Please feel free to join us!Ep

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Deeper into the Word Bible StudyLed by Scott LeppalaCome and join us starting Sunday April 6 from 6:00 to 7:30 PM as we will explore the book of Genesis and discuss some of its grand themes like Creation, Sin, and Redemption. We will be using the Bible as our text book, so there will be plenty of discussion as we span across its pages and ask the Holy Spirit to enlighten our eyes and warm our hearts to the glorious truths God has given to us throughout the Bible. (Handouts will also be provided).

We will also be looking at the unfolding of God’s story through the lives of many different people such as Adam & Eve, Noah, Abraham & Sarah, Hagar, Jacob, Joseph, and a host of others, and what their lives can teach us about God and ourselves. But, we will also be challenged by examining those issues that we, as Christians, face in the world today concerning our own faith and the world views that stand in contrast to the truth of God’s Word.

So come join us in the Library as we dig deeper into the Word and continue to learn and grow together as God gives us the opportunities. Sign up by e-mailing Ruth Ann at ruthann@epworth.com or call the church office at 419.531.4236.

Lenten 6-Week Study & DinnerThe Way: Walking in the Footsteps of Jesus by Adam Hamilton

Travel with Adam Hamilton as he retraces the life and ministry of Jesus. Using historical information, archaeological data, and stories of the faith, Hamilton follows in the footsteps of Jesus from his baptism to the temptations to the heart of his ministry, including the people he loved, the parables he taught, the enemies he made, and the healing he brought.

This 40-day focus will help you grow deeper in your faith, learn more about the life of Christ, and spend time daily reading and reflecting upon the Scriptures. Cost of the study guide is $12.00, or you may purchase it as an e-book.

Adult (led by Pastor Keith Luke) and Children Classes are Wednesdays beginning March 12 at 6:30 PM - Dinner will be served from 5:30 to 6:30 at a cost of $6.00 per person or a family rate of $20.00. For those who can’t make it before class starts at 6:30, you may request a carryout box. We will need reservations for dinner each week.

Dinner March 19 will be ham, scalloped potatoes, green beans, tossed salad, rolls, and fruit cups. The kids’ meal will be hot dogs, French fries, and Kraft mac-n-cheese. Please RSVP for dinner by Sunday, March 16.

Dinner March 26 will be Swiss steak, buttered noodles, broccoli, tossed salad, dinner rolls, and pineapple upsidedown cake. Please RSVP for dinner by Sunday, March 23.

Whether you are doing the Lenten study, another class, or you just want to come and enjoy the fellowship while eating, everyone is welcome! Or you can pick up a take out.

Sign up for the Lenten study and/or dinner on the Opportunities Page or by e-mailing Ruth Ann at ruthann@epworth.com.

Wednesday Evening Lenten Children’s LeadersWednesdays, March 12 through April 16

If you find you are already in worship or classes on Sunday mornings but would like to lead our children, we have just the spot for you! During Lent, we will offer a Lenten series for children, youth, and adults on Wednesday evenings following dinner.

We are offering special children’s classes that coordinate with what the adults will be studying (The Way: Walking in the Footsteps of Jesus by Adam Hamilton). Each week, we will have crafts, activities, and stories provided during the hour-long experience. If you are available to help on any/all of those nights, please call the education office or sign up on the Opportunities Page.

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Community Outreach Committee announces the

10th Anniversary of

PROJECT FEED 5000The kick-off of PROJECT FEED 5000 is beginning. The Community Outreach Committee is especially excited this year as 2014 marks the 10th Anniversary of this project at Epworth!

With PROJECT FEED 5000, Epworth and other participating churches in Northwest Ohio collect food to assist the many hungry people in our local Toledo neighborhoods. PROJECT FEED 5000 is inspired by Jesus’ feeding of 5000 people found in Matthew 14:13-21.

This project is especially needed this year with the exceptionally cold weather and snow we have experienced this winter.

We invite EVERYONE to participate in this project! It is very easy. Here’s how it works:

Boxes will be distributed to all those interested in donating food for this project. Along with the box, a detailed list of food items will be included. Please see detailed food item list on the back of this page! These food items have been carefully selected to provide a family of four nutritious food to feed them for two days!

The boxes and food lists will be distributed after each church service on the following Sundays: March 23, March 30, and April 6.

We will be collecting the filled boxes on the following Sundays: April 13, April 27, and May 4.

The filled boxes will be picked up by “Feed Your Neighbor” truck and delivered to Toledo Area Ministries. From there, the boxes will then be distributed between thirteen local “Feed Your Neighbor” food pantries.

If you are unable to shop, but you would still like to participate, the Community Outreach Committee has volunteers who will shop for you! Simply make out a check to Epworth UMC-Feed 5000, and turn it in to the church office or in the Sunday offering plate, or you may give online at www.epworth.com.

Please join in for this much needed cause! Invite your neighbors, work associates, bunco groups, etc. to fill a box! Let’s celebrate this 10th Anniversary with an accomplishment of feeding 5000!

For any questions, please contact Sherry Clark or Susan Kanwal feed5000@epworth.com or call the church office at 419.531.4236.

{ Please see the reverse side for a list of food items to pick up while you’re shopping! }

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EPWORTH UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

*** PROJECT FEED 5000 Food List ***

Please fill each box with the followingemergency food for a family of four for two days

No Glass Containers please!

2 cans “hearty” meats{ i.e., beef stew, chili, chicken & noodles, etc. }

2 cans meat (12–24 oz. each){ i.e., tuna, salmon, chicken, beef, Spam, etc. }

2 cans vegetables (14.5 oz. each){ i.e., beans, beets, carrots, corn, peas, etc. }

2 cans fruit (16 oz. each){ i.e., peaches, pears, pineapple, fruit cocktail }

2 cans soup (10 ¾ oz. each)

2 boxes macaroni and cheese or rice (7 ¼ oz. each)

1 lb. dried beans or 1 large can baked beans

1 box of crackers any kind and any size{ should be able to fit in the Feed 5000 box }

Breakfast bars{ i.e., Special-K, Fiber One, NO Pop-tarts }

1 jar peanut butter (18 oz.) { creamy style }

1 can spaghetti sauce (15–26 oz.) { NO glass }

1 lb. spaghetti

1 box instant oatmeal packets { any flavor }

1 box instant potatoes or stuffing

{ Please do not send cans with dents or expired dates }

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Suffering from...Cabin Fever?

We’ve got baby sitters...join us for some fun!

Toledo Walleye Game...We’re planning an April date! Not only will it be warmer in April, but we’re planning on an early afternoon/evening game, so we’ll be able to provide baby sitting for those that want to attend but need someone to watch the little ones! Please stay tuned to the weekly reminders and e-mails for the new date, time, and further details!

Parent Connections is a great way to make some new friends and to reconnect with those around you. Come out and join the fun. Contact Cindy Franklin at (personal information removed) for further information.

Epworth’s Children’s Day Out is a supervised playcare for two and three year old children. The program provides them with an opportunity to participate in activities, crafts, stories, art, and playtime while developing social skills in a safe and caring environment.

The program operates Monday through Friday, 9:00 to 11:30 AM, September through May. Tuition is $50.00 per month for one morning per week. The registration fee is $30.00 per child or $45.00 per family. To register for Fall 2014, a child must be age two by September 30, 2014. If your child turns two after that date, they may register and start later in the year when they do turn two years old. Registration for Fall 2014 began March 3 for families with a child currently enrolled in CDO. On March 9, Epworth families registered. Families currently in our preschool, ECEC, registered beginning March 10, and the community may register beginning March 17. Registration forms are available on the kiosk in the narthex, outside the CDO classroom, in the education office, or on our website at www.epworth.com. Please contact the education office if you have any questions.

Epworth Early Childhood Education Center has been in operation since 1982 and continues to have success preparing children for kindergarten. There are half-day sessions that meet for two (TTh) or three (MWF) mornings/week or four mornings or afternoons/week (MTWTh).

Registration for the 2014-15 school year is open now. Children need to be three-years-old by September 30, 2014 and potty trained by the start of the school year in September.

Guided tours are available for parents who want to visit the preschool. If interested, call the ECEC office at 419.531.7632 or e-mail Florine McCain at florine@epworth.com. We welcome you to be part of the Epworth Early Childhood Education Center.

Chrysalis Flight for Teens Registering Now!Emmaus Walks and Chrysalis Flights are spiritual retreats, opportunities for faith exploration and renewal, and for taking a closer look at the servanthood of Jesus. These Walks and Flights help individuals grow closer to Jesus and become disciples and servants within the church. Though you participate as a group, the experience is still personal and unique for everyone. Emmaus Walks are for adults and Chrysalis Flights are for teens 15 to 19.

There’s a Chrysalis Flight for Boys March 21-23 and registrations are still being accepted. The Flight for Girls takes place June 20-22. All Chrysalis Flights are at Maumee United Methodist Church at 405 Sackett Street in Maumee. Registration and sponsorship forms are available in the church office. Prayerfully consider sponsoring a teen in your life.

To learn more, contact Beth Irwin at beth@epworth.com or Pastor Marilynn Schroeder at marilynn@epworth.com, or at 419-531-4236. You can also visit the website of the Northwest Ohio Emmaus Community at www.nwoemmaus.com.

And for those who have already participated in a Walk or Flight, volunteers are always appreciated at future events. Sign-up forms are available online!

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Holy Week and Easter~Palm/Passion Sunday, April 13~

with festive palm procession

One Moment Please: RevealedLed by Pastor Thomas

~Maundy Thursday, April 17~7:30 PM - Holy Communion

featuring the Chancel Choir and the Drama Team

For Such A One As This

~Good Friday, April 18~7:30 PM - Service of Tenebrae (Darkness)

Led by Pastor Thomas

EASTER Sunday, April 20~7:00 AM Easter Sunrise Service~

As the sun rises, greet the good news of the Resurrection with Scripture and songoutdoors on the Valleyview portico with a continental breakfast to follow.

~8:30 and 9:45 AM - Traditional Worship~Wonderful Easter hymns and Handel’s “Hallelujah Chorus”

featuring the Chancel Choir and guest artists the ACADEMY BRASS

~11:00 AM - Contemporary Worship~featuring Hearts Afire and Special Children’s Moments

Nursery, Toddler, and Preschool Classes at 8:30, 9:45, and 11:00Elementary Classes at 9:45 and 11:00

Pastor Thomas will be preaching at all four services:

One Moment Please: REJOICE

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Treasurer’s Report - 2014 Budget OverviewMarch 2014: On February 10, Epworth’s Administrative Council approved the following General Operating & Benevolence Budget for 2014 that was developed and proposed by our Finance Committee. For comparison purposes, 2013 actual results are shown as well.

2013 2014 %Resources Actual Budget Change Pledges $1,152,731 $1,130,000 (2.0%) Unpledged Contributions $114,277 $120,000 5.0% Holiday and Loose Offerings $43,907 $54,000 23.0% All Other $93,006 $102,250 9.9%Total Resources $1,402,545 $1,406,250 0.2% % ofExpenses Expenses Programs $81,366 $95,100 17.0% 6.5% Facilities $257,308 $267,040 4.0% 18.2% Administration $39,534 $40,000 1.0% 2.7% Personnel $762,577 $796,150 4.0% 54.3% Apportionments $190,845 $194,816 2.0% 13.3% Outreach and Missions $60,100 $70,000 16.0% 4.8% All Other $6,212 $3,144 (49.0%) 0.2%Total Expenses $1,397,942 $1,466,250 4.9% 100.0%

Resources Over/(Under) Expenses $5,979 ($60,000) Transfer from Prior Years’ Surplus $ - $35,000 Total Year Surplus/(Deficit) $5,979 ($25,000)

As you can see from the table above, Total Resources are budgeted to increase only 0.2% primarily due to lower than expected results of our annual Stewardship Campaign which yielded pledged commitments that were 2.0% below 2013’s actual pledge receipts.

Total Expenses are budgeted to increase 4.9% due to general increases in the costs associated with programs, outreach & missions, personnel, facilities, operations, as well as Conference & District apportionments. As noted in the table, our 2014 budget increases our level of support to Programs and Outreach & Missions by 17% and 16% respectively.

Total Resources minus Total Expenses yields a deficit budget of $60,000 for the year. The Administrative Council approved the transfer of $35,000 from our General Fund surpluses to reduce the expected deficit to $25,000 as shown.

This $25,000 deficit budget represents a “faith budget”. It is once again hoped that our congregation will respond with the additional generosity and support they have shown in past years to eliminate this planned deficit.

As an historical point of reference, each year since 2009, Epworth has adopted a deficit annul budget only to finish the year with a surplus. It is hoped that this will be the case again this year as our faithful members respond to the need.

As always, I am available to answer your questions.

Peter MachinTreasurer

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Friends in FaithSunday School

Join us for Sunday School in Room 213. We meet every Sunday morning in Room 213 at 9:45. Check the Sunday Morning Education Section for information about our current study. New members or visitors are welcome at any time.

BUNCOOnce every month the Friends in Faith women gather at one of our homes for an evening of fellowship, food and Bunco. The hostess of the month provides the main course and everyone else is asked to bring a side dish, appetizer or dessert to share. We start at 6:30 PM. The next opportunities to join us are: • Tuesday, March 18 at Karen Knight’s house

(personal information removed). RSVP to Karen at (personal information removed).

• Tuesday, April 15 at Karen Wyckoff’s house (personal information removed). RSVP to Karen at (personal information removed).

• Monday, May 12 at Christina Nishiki’s house (personal information removed). RSVP to Christina at (personal information removed).

Please bring a donation of a hygiene product (lotion, soap, shampoo, conditioner, etc.) or socks, scarves, gloves, aspirin, etc. for S.T.A.R.S. These items will be used to help support young girls and families who have been affected by human trafficking.

Friends in Faith Book Club Everyone is welcome to join us for the Book Club. We serve up lively discussion and dessert with every meeting beginning at 7:00 PM! The next opportunities to join us are:• Tuesday, March 25 - We will

discuss The Book Thief by Markus Zusak in the Epworth lounge.

• Tuesday, April 29 - We will discuss The Signature of All Things by Elizabeth Gilbert and will meet at Linda Coon’s house (personal information removed). RSVP to Linda at (personal information removed).

• Tuesday, May 20 - We will discuss The Invention of Wings by Sue Monk Kidd and will meet at Linda Coon’s house (personal information removed). RSVP to Linda at (personal information removed).

Epworth[adult Singles ]

Adult singles ages 30+ are invited to participate. You do not have to be a member of Epworth to join in the Christian Fellowship, meet new friends, and enrich your Christian journey while helping those in need through our outreach projects.

For more information, contact Linda Coon (personal information removed) or Miss Kate (personal information removed). You may also sign up for any of our activities on the Opportunities Page inside your weekly Reminders Bulletin.

COFFEE & SUCHTuesday, March 25 at 5:30 PM

Barry Bagels (4024 N. Holland Sylvania Road)

LUNCH BUNCHTuesday, March 18 at Noon

J. Alexander’s (4315 Talmadge Road)

MARCH REGULAR MEETINGFriday, March 21 at 6:30 PM

Linda Coon’s house (3221 Woodley Road)We will be making cards for Veterans as our activity. Linda will provide the main dish. Those with last names starting with A-K should plan on making a salad to share. Those with last names starting with L-S should plan on making a dessert to share. Those with last names T-Z should plan on making an appetizer to share. Any questions or comments as to what to bring, please ask Miss Kate.

Please RSVP to Miss Katefor any or all events/meetings at

(personal information removed).

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On Wednesday, April 2, the Sticky Faith Cohort, led by Bob Knowles, Director of Student Ministries, will share some of the things they are learning from the Fuller Youth Institute.

Through short videos, personal testimonies and fact based teaching, you will get a firsthand view

of the importance of creating an intergenerational faith environment that will result in a faith in Christ that really sticks for children, youth and adults.

Chef Les will be preparing a special Easter ham menu for only $6.00. The program will follow lunch. (We are collecting travel size personal hygiene items for St. Paul’s.) Invite your friends and neighbors!

Contact Nancy in the Church office at 419.531.4236 or nancy@epworth.com to make your reservation by Monday, March 31.

Wonder ful WednesdayAPRIL LUNCHEON

One Moment Please…you’ve heard that when you get put on hold making a call, it’s the message you get when you try to load a new program on your computer, and that’s what your husband or wife says when you tell them it’s time to go.

For Lent this year, One Moment Please or, OMP, will be our theme as we use the 6 week period before Easter to stop, ponder, and reflect on our relationship with Jesus as we prepare to celebrate resurrection.

Each week the sermon will explore a familiar Gospel story and create some space as we take “One Moment Please” around these theme words: reflect, resist, rejoice, revealed, released, risk.

Friendly Faces Wantedfor Monthly Vespers Services

Lay servants from Epworth United Methodist Church have been leading Vespers worship services at Sunset House on Indian Road for several years, and we’ve recently expanded the ministry to Kingston Residence of Sylvania and Swan Creek Retirement Community off of Reynolds Road.

Vespers services include a short message, familiar hymns, readings and prayer. They are about 30 minutes long but provide a wonderful opportunity to meet new people and bring God’s message to the community. What can you do?

• Be a welcoming presence and spend time with the residents of Swan Creek, Kingston, and Sunset House

• Read Scripture• Provide Special Music or share another gift you have• Epworth youth and children are welcome – we’d

love to see you!

If you have been considering participating, you can jump in any time…or attend a few just for the experience.

Services take place on the first Thursday of every month at 4:00 PM at Sunset House; the third Thursday of every month at 2:00 PM at Kingston; and third Sundays of every other month at 2:30 PM at Swan Creek Retirement Village.

The next Vespers service at Swan Creek will be Easter Sunday, April 20. Swan Creek’s Chaplain Bill Barnard will preside, but members of Epworth will provide additional support.

If you would like to be a part of any of these Vespers services, contact Beth Irwin at beth@epworth.com or 419.531.4236.

SAVE THE DATE - Saturday, May 3

Great for the whole family! This is a FREE community event.

Children can come and explore hands on!

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March is Colon Cancer Awareness Month

Epworth Health MinistriesColon cancer is one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers in the United States. It is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the US for both men and women combined. In 2013, more than 143,000 new cases of colon cancer were diagnosed.

Screening Can Reduce Your Risk!

Early detection is vital -- over 90% of all cases of colon cancer can be prevented with recommended screening. Despite its high incidence, colon cancer is one of the most detectable and, if found early enough, most treatable forms of cancer.

If you’re 50 or older, getting a screening test for colon cancer could save your life. Here’s how:

Colon cancer usually starts from polyps in the colon or rectum. A polyp is a growth that shouldn’t be there.

• Over time, some polyps can turn into cancer.

• Screening tests can find polyps, so they can be removed before they turn into cancer.

• Screening tests can also find colon cancer early. When it is found early, the chance of being cured is good.

Professional guidelines emphasize the importance of a regular screening program that includes annual fecal occult blood tests (FOBT), periodic partial or full colon exams, or both. Leaders in the field have estimated that, with widespread adoption of these screening practices, as many as 30,000 lives could be saved each year.

According to the American Cancer Society, the best advice about diet and activity to possibly reduce your risk of colon cancer is to:

• Increase the intensity and amount of physical activity

• Limit intake of red and processed meats

• Get the recommended levels of calcium and vitamin D

• Eat more vegetables and fruits and maintain a healthy diet

• Avoid obesity and weight gain around the midsection

• Avoid excess alcohol

“Colon cancer isn’t just an old man’s disease!” Talk to your doctor or healthcare provider today about your risk for developing colon cancer.

Sources: Colon Cancer Alliance (www.ccalliance.org) and American Society of Colon & Rectal Surgeons (www.fascrs.org)

Low Vision/Macular DegenerationSupport Group

Spring MeetingsOur Low Vision/Macular Degeneration Support Group meets on the second Monday of the month at 2:00 PM. Meet others who also have low vision, and learn from each other, as well as hear from unique speakers.

Join us at our next meetings:

• Monday, April 14: Ken Serey returns to talk about new technology to help those with low vision.

• Monday, May 12: Our speaker is To Be Determined, but this last meeting of the season will include a luncheon. The group takes a hiatus June through August.

To RSVP for any of the meetings (or to arrange transportation), contact Beth Irwin at 419.531.4236 or beth@epworth.com. This support group is open to the public, so invite friends!

The nextBlood Drive for the American Red Cross

is Wednesday, May 21 from 3:00 to 8:00 PMIf you donate on or before March 26, you can donate in May and we’d love to have you and your little red blood cells join us!

Look for more information about registration coming soon!

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SPRING into

HEALTHSPRING into

HEALTHYou’re invited to “Spring into Health!” at the annual Epworth Health Fair on Sunday, May 4 from 8:30 AM to 12:30 PM.

Stop into the Family Life Center, and visit with more than 24 vendors from area businesses and organizations interested in helping you care for your health and wellness.

Many area assisted living and independent living communities will have representatives on hand to answer questions, as will in-home health aide agencies.

See demonstrations from Body Recall Plus, Holy Yoga Toledo, and ALMA Dance Experience West African Dance Fitness. Get a chair massage.

Learn more about our groups and ministries at Epworth dedicated to your health including the Alzheimer’s and Dementia Support Group, Grief Support for Women, Stephen Ministry, and our Special Needs Ministry.

It’s all free! Mark your calendars for Epworth’s Annual Health Fair on Sunday, May 4.

Healing and Wholeness ServiceThe April Service of Healing and Wholeness will be held on Tuesday, April 8 at 7:00 PM in the Webb Chapel.

Don Best will share his testimony entitled: Facing the Unexpected.

You may come to the service to pray for others, to have the community pray for

your special needs, or to pray for the hurt and brokenness in the community and the world.

Cecil Baughman will provide special music and accompany the service. Pastor Thomas will lead in the healing prayers and preside for the Sacrament of Holy Communion. Members of the Healing Ministry Team are Beth Irwin, Dolli Darah, Penny McCartney, B.J. Brengartner, and Vicki Smith.

Easter at EpworthDecorating the church with flowers for the Easter services is a project of the Worship Work Area. We are offering you two ways to participate in the Easter celebration:

• If you would like to honor or memorialize a loved one, you may contribute to the Easter Display and your commemoration will be listed.

• If you would like to contribute and be able to take home a plant, please check the appropriate line.

You may mail the form with your check to the church office or place in the offering plate on Sunday. Any over-subscription of flowers will be placed in a “floral fund” for use through the year.

If you sponsor a plant, please pick up the plant AFTER the 11:00 a.m. Easter Service. Thanks again for your support of this Epworth Ministry.

ORDER DEADLINE ISTUESDAY, APRIL 8

Indicate the number of flowers you want:

_____ 6” White Lilies ($15.00) _____ 7” Yellow Daffodils ($10.00) _____ 6” Yellow Tulips ($10.00) _____ Easter Display ($25.00)

Donor: ___________________________________________________________ (Please Print Clearly - as you wish to be listed)

Telephone #: __________________________________________________

In Memory of: __________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________

or

In Honor of: __________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________

(Will be listed in the bulletin on Easter Sunday)Make checks payable to

Epworth United Methodist Church (memo: Easter Flowers).

__

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ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED

DEADLINE FOR NEXT TOWER ARTICLES - MONDAY, March 31 AT NOON

Non ProfitU.S. Postage

PAIDToledo, OhioPermit No. 23

Epworth Student Ministries

Our Mission: To make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world!

www.EpworthSWAT.com

Questions about Epworth Student Ministries? Contact Bob Knowles atbobknowles@epworth.com or 419.509.2353 or Chuck Campos at chuck@epworth.com or 419.902.2263.

For nothing is impossible with God. Luke 1:37

4855 W. Central AvenueToledo, Ohio 43615-2337

Sunday, March 16 9:45 AM – Junior & Senior Sunday Morning Donuts & The Bible 6:00 PM – Junior SWAT; 7:30 PM – Senior SWAT

Sunday, March 23 9:45 AM – Junior & Senior Sunday Morning Donuts & The Bible 6:00 PM – Junior SWAT; 7:30 PM – Senior SWAT

Sunday, March 30 9:45 AM – Junior & Senior Sunday Morning Donuts & The Bible 9:45 AM – 2014 Confirmation Class 6:00 PM – Junior SWAT; 7:30 PM – Senior SWAT

Saturday, April 5 to Junior SWAT & Confirmation RetreatSunday, April 6

Sunday, April 13 9:45 AM – Junior & Senior Sunday Morning Donuts & The Bible 6:00 PM – Junior SWAT; 7:30 PM – Senior SWAT

Thursday, April 17 7:30 PM – Maundy Thursday Worship – Confirmation Element

Friday, April 18 7:30 PM – Good Friday Worship

Saturday, April 20 Easter Sunday – No Donuts & The Bible; No SWATs