Note Concerning Final Payments of 2010 Apportionments
In order to receive credit for 2010, apportionment and advance specials payments must be received in the Conference Treasurer’s Office by 8:30 a.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 19. To ensure time for delivery, mail payments to the Charlotte lockbox no later than Tuesday, Jan. 11. After this date, mail payments directly to NCCUMC Treasurer’s Office, Attn: Diana Hunter, PO Box 1970, Garner, NC 27529. Payments may also be hand delivered or over-nighted to the Methodist Building at 700 Waterfield Ridge Place, Garner, NC 27529.
For more information about remitting payments, please click here Church Remittances. To check your church’s balance, visit the District Remittances to view reports, which will be updated daily through the cut-off date. If there is a discrepancy from your records, please contact the Treasurer’s Office as soon as possible so that it can be corrected in a timely manner.
January is Project AGAPE Month
Please prayerfully consider supporting Project AGAPE, a joint ministry with the Western NC Conference, proclaiming the name of Jesus in Armenia, an area that suffered the devastation of a generation of communist rule and state-sponsored atheism, a war with Azerbaijan, and a place where thousands of refugees continue in a struggle to survive. These gifts may make the difference between life and death, spiritually and physically. To download the AGAPE bulletin insert, please click: AGAPE LOVE. For more information about Project AGAPE, read https://nccumc.org/outreach/.
Unity Dialogue to meet January 13
All persons are welcome to join the conversation about homosexuality and the Church on Jan. 13, at the Methodist Building. The topic has divided many congregations and denominations. This dialogue is in its 18th year for some, and others have joined more recently, and there is hope that in listening for understanding, God opens hearts and minds and doors. While not all agree, all come with a readiness to learn and to be transformed by the Holy Spirit who unites us in faith and baptism. Bishop Gwinn will preside over the dialogue, and time is dedicated to worship, as well. The Unity Dialogue is from 6 – 8 p.m., at the Methodist Building, 700 Waterfield Ridge Place, Garner.
Healthy New Year’s resolutions
Clergy wellness initiatives are plentiful, including the recently announced availability of pedometers for clergy on the Conference Insurance plan. What about opportunities for a congregation that wants to honor God our Creator with healthier choices? Aly Breisch is a grant-funded parish nurse who offers highly creative and interactive programs of health education and spiritual well being. Health “literacy” programs and suggestions for streamlining church suppers and improving the health quotient as a congregation, are available for congregations in the North Carolina Conference. For a comprehensive community caring ministry, Aly is a great resource, as well. Please call the Office of Connectional Ministries or email Aly Breisch at alyson.breisch@gmail.com.
Summer Food Service Program
The N.C. Simplified Summer Food Service Program (SFSP) makes it easier for schools, local government agencies, and private non-profit organizations to feed children during the summer. The program is offered in community locations (parks, schools, playgrounds, housing authorities, day camps, churches and community centers) from May to September. Churches or organizations interested in sponsoring SFSP may apply for advance funds to cover start-up costs. Meals may be prepared on-site or sponsors may contract with a vendor to purchase prepared meals. For more information about the program and how to apply, visit www.nutritionnc.com/.
NC Conference United Methodist Handbell Festival
The annual NCC United Methodist Handbell Festival will be Mar. 4-5 at the Riddle Center on the campus of Methodist University. The guest conductor will be Michael Mazzatenta, DMA (Mesa, AZ). The registration deadline is Feb. 16. A brochure and registration form can be found at Handbell Festival. For further information, contact Mark Gourley, Festival Committee Chair, MarkGourley@FirstPrez.com or choralconductor1982@gmail.com.