August 2014

Volume 16 Issue 7

Glimpses of Grace
at
Grace United Methodist Church


Grace UMC
Sunday Services

Contemporary
Worship
9:00 am

Sunday School
10:05 am

Traditional Worship
11:00 am




2113 Old Monrovia Road
Huntsville, AL 35806
(256) 430-0003
www.graceumchsv.org




Grace Staff

Senior Pastor
Bryan Sisson


Associate Pastor
Todd Noren-Hentz


Director of Youth
Ministries
Adam McNeil


Director of Childrens
Ministries
Darcy Bierer


Office Administrator
Vicki Sheehy


Music Director
Gianna Gimenez


Praise & Worship Leader
Doug Wright


Accompanist
Curtis Lindsay


Facilities Manager
Ben Allen


Nursery Coordinator
Kalyn Polatty
Sign Up Now for 6 New Adult Studies Beginning in August!

Wednesday nights:
Religion & Science: Ancient & Modern Wisdom Meet
Led by Dave Hickman and Todd Noren-Hentz
Wednesdays at 6:00 pm, August 13
th
thru October 1
st
in Fellowship Hall Room #1
This course is intended to give you some insights into the processes by which Gods creation may
have occurred. Well examine reasons for tensions between these two worlds, some of the great
contributors to each field, and gain deeper insights into both worlds. Being a whiz in science is not
needed. No text is required, and read-ahead handouts will be provided.

Dare to Dream: Creating a God Sized Mission Statement for Your Life
by Mike Slaughter
Led by Pastor Bryan Sisson
Wednesday Evenings from 6:00 7:00 pm, August 13
th
-September 17
th

Are your goals too small? Are you living the just get by plan? Or is there a greater God dream for
you that if lived to the fullest could permeate and inform every move you make? Participants will
learn how to develop a life mission statement that helps the fully commit to a God-directed lifestyle.
Books have been ordered and can be purchased from Pastor Bryan at the first session for $12.

Meditation
Led by Chris Weaver and Phil Graham
Wednesday Evenings from 6:307:15 pm, August 13
th
- September 17
th
**Note time good option for
those committed to helping with meal cleanup, making 6:00 pm start time difficult.**
The format for the Meditation Period will include periods of reflective silence and both Scripture
readings and meditation readings taken from the Celtic Daily Prayer. An action component as a living
response to contemplative practice will also be introduced in each period. Both Chris Weaver and Phil
Graham will provide resources for those who wish to commit and fully participate.

Class Offerings at Other Times:
Growing As Parents
A Free, 6-week course on Sundays from 4:00 to 5:30 pm in the Craft Room
Childcare & programing available for kids (great for parents with kids in GraceFull Singers!)
Join us for a series of weekly, topical discussions led by various experts from the community, including
Rocket City Mom, Jim & Holly Cecil, Rev. Jim Norris, Lysa Parker, and Pastor Todd.

Let Your Life Speak Listening for the Voice of God by Parker J. Palmer
Led by Christy Noren-Hentz
Tuesday Evenings at 6:00 pm from August 12
th
- September 30
th

Well discuss Gods call on your life and how God wants to use you in Kingdom work. Well also discuss
the problem of depression and searching for meaning in your life. With wisdom, compassion, and gentle
humor, Parker J. Palmer invites us to listen to the inner teacher and follow its leadings toward a sense of
meaning and purpose. Order your book through Amazon for $10.99 Childcare provided upon request.

Children of the Day: A Study of First and Second Thessalonians
A Womans Bible Study led by Mary Graham
Tuesday Mornings at 9:30 am, begins August 12
th

Join our Tuesday morning Womens group and Beth Moore to walk the shores of Thessalonica with this
verse-by-verse Bible study of 1 and 2 Thessalonians. See page 7 for more details on this study.

2



Pastors Ponderings

Continue to love each other with true Christian love. Dont forget to
show hospitality to strangers, for some who have done this have
entertained angels without realizing it.
Hebrews 13:1-2, New Living Translation

Recently I have been in a great deal of prayer and reflection
over the growth of Grace. In particular, Ive tried to be more
spiritually attentive to how it is that we, as church, can reach
out to and encourage those who are new (as well as those
who are regular visitors and members) to find their place
within the Body of Faith here at GUMC. My personal time
with God has led to conversations and discussions and
meetings that all come down to one thing a desire for the
church to connect with those who are not yet fully participating members.
No doubt spiritual growth happens in worship, but what
Ive been more focused upon within the last few months is
how is growth happening outside that one hour a week? How
is it that were being called to help lead and inspire and
encourage people to take next steps in journeys of faith and to
find opportunities to more meaningfully/spiritually
CONNECT with others?

A few weeks ago a friend passed along an article to me that I
found interesting. It touched on possible reasons why your
local church isnt growing, and it challenged the reader to
consider reasons why churches who want to grow end up
staying small. Honestly, the read was a painfully real look at
the possibilities of why the local church might not be
connecting with those wanting to join and grow through
spiritual connection. What the author suggests is that what it
comes down to is a willingness (on the current members part)
to connect, - to invite and share love with someone new. And
it doesnt have to happen AT CHURCH. Often
relationships formed outside the walls of the church building
lead to renewed spirits within. Sharing a personal experience
he writes, We used to have friends over on Friday night to play cards.
We would have dessert, tell jokes, and play games together. One day I
suggested to my wife that we invite a couple who had visited the church to
join us on Friday night. We did, and we had a good time in the process.
During the entire evening, he writes, we never said anything about
church or Sunday school or the Bible or anything remotely religious. But,
do you know what? They joined the church in a few weeks. Now, he is
teaching a class himself. And they would both tell you that they were not
living the disciples life before they played cards and ate dessert with us
that night. Interesting experience: that new couple joined
they became more involved and had opportunity to grow on a
deeper level through a simple act of invitation. And not
even to church at that! They were able to take a next step
in their faith journey as a couple as a result of the invitation to
connect.






And for me, one of the areas where we as a church - have
room to grow in our reaching out to others is through
INVITING. We forget what its like to be new, we forget
what its like to try to connect when others already seem so
connected. Quite frankly, its hard no matter how old we
are - to walk into a situation as a new person and try to begin
to make meaningful connections with the people around us.
It can prove daunting. And truth be told, walking into a
church for the first time can be just as difficult as being a
young kid and starting over in a new school or an adult
starting a new job. We wonder where were going to sit in
worship...we wonder if people will even say Hello...we
wonder if the whole experience will be a comfortable one and
whether or not we will feel at home. And quite frankly,
because of those questions and more, many people in our
society today choose to avoid the situation all together.
Church becomes one more area in life that they tend to
avoid because theyre fearful of whether or not they will fit in.

My hope and prayer for Grace UMC is that as people of faith
we will begin to change that, that we will do everything in our
power to encourage people into Gods house for worship and
fellowship AND CONNECTION. And that begins with
inviting people to attend worship with us, friends and
neighbors we know are new or looking for a church home
(How about claiming the challenge of inviting someone new
to come worship with you this month?!?!)...It begins with
SPEAKING and WELCOMING people at church, going out
of our way to make sure that all who are new and entering
Gods doors for the first time feel as if they have a place
(How about claiming the challenge of speaking to FIVE new
people in worship this month?!?!)...It begins with opening our
eyes and hearts to brothers and sisters around us and, as Paul
suggests, continuing to love each other with true Christian love.
This is the challenge before us - offering, sharing, living out
Gods call to love others as Christ first loved us. Will you
join me in responding to that call???

I look forward to seeing you SOON!

- Pastor Bryan



3


Happenings At Grace

Blessing of the Backpacks
Hey kids and teens!! Bring your school backpacks to church
Sunday, August 3. During both services, Pastor Bryan will
share in a special blessing over them during the Childrens
Message. So bring your packs, and lets prepare for the first
day of school TOGETHER!

Exploration Classes Begin Soon!
Pastor Bryan will be leading a five-week class on Sunday
afternoons at 3:00 pm for those new to the church and
wanting to join. It will begin Sunday, August 3, and each
week we will discuss topics pertaining to our faith and spiritual
journey here at Grace UMC. We will meet in Fellowship Hall
#3, and all are invited to come and learn more! Childcare will
be available for those who need it - just let us know! If you
would like more information or want to sign up, please contact
Pastor Bryan at (256) 430-0003.


Church Workday
On Saturday, August 9, Grace UMC's
Trustees are heading up a workday to focus on
cleaning up the church grounds. We will gather
from 8:00 am-12:00 pm to work on trimming
bushes, cleaning out shrubbery beds, and
general grounds clean-up. All are invited and
welcome to join in! Please bring tools (shovels, trimmers, etc.)
and gloves. If childcare is needed, please contact the Kalyn
Polatty at (256) 430-0003.


Wednesday Family Nights Begin Soon!
Join us for food, fellowship, and Bible Study for the entire
family. The fun begins on August 13 and continues through
September 17. We will have dinner from 5:00-5:45 pm.
Then at 6:00 pm we will offer Bible studies for children (Wee
BZ & BZ), youth, and adults. Mark your calendars and plan
on being a part of this special fellowship!


Wednesday Night Meal Hosts Needed!
Can you believe it? School starts soon and so do the
Wednesday Night Suppers! Food and Fellowship is looking
for groups within the church family to sign up to do a dinner
between August 13 and September 17. You will have help
from a member of Food and Fellowship. Please discuss this
with your committees, Sunday school classes, etc. and help us
make it a fun fall for Wednesday Night Suppers. Look for the
signup sheet outside of the Sanctuary, and choose a
Wednesday night. For more information, contact either
Nancy Jackson (256-830-0678 njackson@knology.net) or
Donna Evans (256-527-2414 donnakevans@ardmore.net).


Calling All Youth and Kids in Grades 1-8!
GraceFull Singers begins August 17 and we want YOU! We
will be preparing a Christmas musical to be presented Sunday,
December 7, followed by a church-wide potluck. Come and
join us for lots of fun, singing, drama, and more. Rehearsals
are on Sundays from 4:00 -5:30 pm. We will take a few
holidays off; full schedule will be distributed after we begin
rehearsals, but feel free to contact director Gianna Gimenez if
you have questions before then. Dress rehearsal is December
6. Sign up on Grace's website, or at the table in the hallway at
church. Cant wait to see you!


Soda Price Increase
Congregational Care uses the money raised from the soda
machine to fund the Steak-Out coupons sent out to individuals
in the congregation, cards, caring for homebound, fruit
baskets, and any need in the congregation. Due to the increase
in Steak-Out coupons, increase in soda prices, and the team
taking on additional responsibilities, the soda price was
recently raised to 75 cents. Thank you for understanding the
price increase and your continued support to these ministries.


Outdoor Church
Grace UMC is sponsoring Outdoor Church at the Manna House
in downtown Huntsville in Saturday, September 6
th
, from
8:00 am - Noon. If youd like to help as a volunteer cooking
food for the homeless on that Saturday, please contact Brian
Mitchell at brianmitchell@gmail.com or (256) 527-4583.


2014 Church Picnic - Save the Date
The 2014 Church-Wide Picnic will be on
Sunday, October 12, at Monte Sano State Park
from 2:00 - 5:00 pm. Plan to join in the fun!


Serving Communion in Worship
Would you like to assist in serving communion during the
Sunday morning services and at other special services? You
can sign up now on the bulletin board across from the kitchen
at church. Dates are available from now until the end of the
year.


New Banners for Hallway and Sanctuary
We are in the process of raising funds which will
enable us to purchase new banners to decorate
the hallways outside the Sanctuary, as well as
decorating the Sanctuary itself. If you would like
to be a part, please place a check into the offering
plate made out to the church with Banner Fund
noted in the memo line. Thank you!
4


Family Life Ministry News

Men of Grace
Each week at 11:30 am various men from Grace UMC and
their friends gather for lunch at a local restaurant to talk about
life, faith, and our church. We rotate to a different day of the
week each month. In August, we will meet on Tuesdays.
To receive information about upcoming lunch gatherings,
visit http://graceumchsv.org/mailman/listinfo/
mog_graceumchsv.org and sign up for our email list, or
contact Buddy McMullin at (256) 683-4164 or
buddymcmullin@gmail.com.


Join the Grace Supper Club!
Its time to sign up for the 2014-2015 Grace
Supper Club. Our monthly small group meals will
be held from September 2014 through May 2015 at
a local home or restaurant selected by the host.
GSC is a low-commitment, low-stress way to get to
know other people in our congregation a little bit
better. There are no prerequisites, and anyone can
participate either as an individual or as a family.
Everyone at Grace UMC is welcome to participate
in this great fellowship opportunity. and for 2014 were adding
a Substitute List for people who feel they cannot participate in
every scheduled GSC but who would still like to participate
occasionally.
See the sign-up table at Grace or contact Jim Marconnet at
(256) 772-3946 or jmarconnet@gmail.com for full
information. We need everyone to register by mid August
in order to get the small groups and hosts assigned so that
monthly meals can start in September.


Grace Disc Golf Association
The Family Life Ministries Team has started the Grace Disc
Golf Association. Its for all ages and skill levels. Disc Golf
is free to play and easy to learn. If you dont have your own
discs, weve got some to share. On the last Sunday of each
month through September, well gather for lunch somewhere
quick at noon and at a different Disc Golf course at 1:00 pm.
So join us for lunch, or just join us at the course. If it is
raining, we will not meet. Our next outing will be on
Sunday, August 31. Well eat at Schlotskys (University
Drive) and play disc golf at UAH (meet at first
hole across from WLRH studios). Check out the
church website for future dates and locations.
For more information, contact John Lawson at
(256) 503-2700 or Pastor Todd at
toddnorenhentz@graceumchsv.org.

Pick-up Basketball
We have Pick-up Basketball every Wednesday
evening at 7:30 pm in the gym. Interested in staying
informed about Pick-up Basketball? Ask Pastor Todd to
put you on the email list! We also have a Facebook
and Twitter for basketball if youd like to keep up that way
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GraceUMCBB
Twitter: @GraceUMCBB


Grace Family Fun Fly
Sunday, August 3, from 1:00 - 4:00 pm
We fun-loving pilots, spectators, family, and friends get
together in the Grace Ministry Center Gym once a month to
fly our small indoor electric radio-controlled airplanes,
helicopters, and multi-copters. New pilots, experienced pilots,
and spectators of all ages are always welcome to sport fly for
fun. We have several small electric R/C race cars available for
younger children to drive, without cost or obligation. Contact
Jim Marconnet at jmarconnet@gmail.com or (256) 772-3946
for more information.


Grace Golf Association
The Grace Golf Association (GGA) is an informal golf group
open to all members and friends of Grace United Methodist
Church. Our mission is simple: enjoy Christian fellowship and
friendly competition playing a game we enjoy. Men and
women, juniors, seniors, hackers, and scratch players are all
welcome.
GGA plays once per month between March and October.
Contact Scott Kowerduck (scott@pce-llc.com) for more
information or to get on the email list for information
pertaining to GGA events. The next GGA outing will be on
Saturday, August 23, to Joe Wheeler State Park in Northwest
Alabama.


Parents Night Out
PNO is for infants and children up to 5
th
Grade and is
conducted on select Friday evenings. PNO is a drop-in type
program and is open for participating parents and children
between 5:00 and 10:00 pm. PNO relies upon adult
volunteers, paid nursery staff, and youth helpers. We hope you
will invite your friends, neighbors, and co-workers to be a part
of this program.
The next scheduled PNO is Friday, September 26, from
5:00 to 10:00 pm and costs $10 per child, with a $20 family
maximum. Children 5 and under are asked to be picked
up by 9:00 pm. You can register online at
www.graceumchsv.org/pno.
Our final PNO date for 2014 is Friday, December 5.
5


Missions

Missions That We Regularly Support
with Donations:

Huntsville Assistance Program Food donations
Blount Hospitality House Personal-sized toiletry items
Redbird Community Soup barcodes from Campbells
Labels for Education
Ronald McDonald House Pop tabs from soda cans
New Futures Homeless Shelter Monetary donations


Volunteer Your Time with
These Important Ministries:

Salvation Army Soup Kitchen Make sandwiches at Grace at
8:30 am on Mondays, August 11 & 25
Contact: Imogene Johns, (256) 837-0324
Meals-on-Wheels Meet at the Huntsville Senior Center on
Drake at 10:15 am on Friday, August 15,
to serve meals to the homebound.
Contact: Donna Evans, (256) 420-6401
Wheelchair Ramp Installation Meet at the church at
8:30 am on Saturday, August 9.
Contact: Chuck Evans, (256) 527-2413
Please note: Chuck reports that the
ramp being installed this month is
fairly large, and that extra help is
needed.





Huntsville Assistance Program Needs
HAP is in need of donations to help those
without enough food in our area. In an attempt
to bring awareness and reminders to everyone, we
highlight the most needed items in the newsletter
each month. For August we are requesting
soap, shampoo, and Kleenex. Please bring your non-
expired, non-perishable food items to the Joel Curry Food
Pantry in Fellowship Hall #3. Mark out the barcodes before
putting them in the pantry.
Please note: The food pantry at HAP is always in need of
basic food items. We ask for additional non-food items
because individuals can not use Food Stamps to purchase any
paper products or soap products.









Meals to Grow - Backpack Food Program
Our community has a great number of children who
dont get enough to eat at home. During the school
year, the free lunch program helps provide for these
children during the week, but the weekend can seem
very long when you are hungry. Trinity United Methodist
Church in Huntsville started addressing this problem in 2008
with the Meals to Grow program (www.mealstogrow.org).
Every Friday, bags of food are placed inside the backpacks of
children at high risk of hunger during the weekend. In 2012,
we began collecting and packing food at Grace to contribute
to the great need at University Place Elementary School.

As the program has grown, we have been able to serve other
schools. In 2013, we began serving children next door at
Providence Elementary School, and students at Montview
Elementary School. Its humbling to see the gratitude of the
children, teachers, principals, and staff at each of the schools.
The childrens eyes grow wide with delight when they see us
bringing in food. The team of people working at the school,
who know the needs better than anyone, thank us endlessly. I
am grateful our congregation has been so generous
responding to the need.

If you are called to serve in this ministry, there are many ways
to help. We always need food, monetary donations, and
prayer. We need help packing bags, too. Contact Rachael
Benton at engineermom@gmail.com for more details on how
you can get involved.

We resume packing on the 3
rd
Monday of every month at 6:00
pm starting on August 18. We owe a special thank you to the
children at VBS this year! They collected over 800 items for
this mission to give us a great start on the new school year!
Thanks, Grace Kids!!!

The following items are needed for each bag:
1 Pop-top can of soup with meat (such as Progresso,
Chunky, etc.)
1 Pop-top canned meal (such as Chef Boyardee Ravioli,
etc.)
1 Fruit cup or pop-top can of fruit
2 Packages of peanut butter crackers or cheese crackers
2 Individual sized boxes of cereal or 2 cereal bars (or
breakfast product)
4 Healty snacks (such as granola bars, Cheez-Its, packages
of crackers, fruit snacks, Rice Krispie Treats, raisins, Sun
Chips, etc.
1 Shelf-stable milk in juice-box size (such as Yoohoo! Or
Hersheys, etc.)
6


Join the Fun at Grace

Literary Ladies
All women of the church are invited to join
the Literary Ladies in their monthly discussion
of a book. They meet the third Monday of each month at
10:00 am. Nursery care can be made available if needed. For
more information, contact Callie Vincent at (256) 539-9870 or
caldon@knology.net.
Our upcoming books are:
August 18: A Good Man: Rediscovering my Father, Sargent
Shriver by Mark Shriver
Please read and come discuss A Good Man with us, no
matter what your political persuasion. Written by his son, this
is a personal, inspiring, funny, and sad look at the life of
Sargent Shriver who was a good man of great faith, hope, and
love who did a lot for our country.
September 15: A Call to Action: Women, Religion, Violence
and Power by Jimmy Carter


GraceFull Players/GraceFull Players Dancers
Luncheon on Sunday, August 10
Our next GraceFull Players/Dancers luncheon will be on
Sunday, August 10, after the second service at 12:00 pm.
Please plan to join us and bring a covered-dish for lunch,
fellowship and planning. Discover the wonderful ways you
can give and receive through our ministry of sacred dance and
drama. We would love to see some new faces involved! For
more information, contact either Shannon Rosenthal at
serosenthal@knology.net or (256) 895-0253, or Susan Allen at
(256) 895-9191 or SRAtapping@bellsouth.net.


Scrapbook/Craft Night
The Scrapping/Crafters will meet at the church on Friday,
August 8 from 5:00 - 11:00 pm. We would love to see you
there. Its always a good time of food and fellowship. You can
come for the entire time or for only part of the time. Please
join us and bring a snack and beverage to share. Feel free to
bring a friend or two or three, and enjoy this time together.
For more information, contact Susan Brown at (256) 722-3898
or scrappingsusan@gmail.com.


Grace United Methodist Women
Friendship Circle News
The Grace United Methodist Women will have their August
meeting on Thursday, August 28, at noon. All are invited to
bring a sack lunch and join us! A dessert will be furnished.
For further information, contact Betty Lawson at
(256) 837-2824.

Fun Timers News
Overview of Our Last Meeting

The FunTimers met at the church July 14
.
We had a special
guest, lots of fellowship, and some tasty snacks. Our special
guest was our Associate Pastor, Todd Noren-Heniz. Todd
shared with the group his journey to becoming a United
Methodist minister. Todd was brought up in the Baptist faith,
and it wasnt easy to make the decision to change.
As most of you know Todd is married to Christy who is also a
minister, and she is the pastor of a church in Huntsville. They
have one son, Carter. Carter is very active in all of the
activities of the church. You will see him most often as an
acolyte in the morning service.
Todd brings to the church a lot a serious wisdom but also, he
is very funny and loves to make people laugh. We can all say,
THANKS!!

Upcoming Meeting
Join us on Monday, August 11, when our guest speaker will
be our County Commission Chairman, Dale Strong. This will
be a great opportunity to learn more about Dale, things that are
happening in our county, ask questions, and enjoy a time of
fellowship!


You dont have to be a member of the Fun Timers to go with
us on trips, but you do need to be fun-loving regardless of
your age! Come join us! For more information, contact Callie
Vincent at (256) 539-9870 or caldon@knology.net.








Christmas Card Class
There will be a Christmas card class at the church on
Saturday, August 9 at 9:00 am. Participants will get a stamp
set, a punch, adhesive, and make a dozen cards for $45. There
will also be a raffle with nice prizes in which all of the raffle
proceeds go to the New Futures home. Contact Marsha
Hosner at (256) 771-0025 if you would like to participate.





7


For Your Information


New Planters
Special thanks to the Green Team for paying for and having
installed the beautiful planters at the church front door and
around the sign at the street. We appreciate our gift of
beautifying the church grounds!



Upcoming Women's Bible Study
Begins Tuesday, August 12, at 9:30 am
Join our Tuesday morning Women's group and Beth Moore to
walk the shores of Thessalonica with this verse-by-verse Bible
study of 1 and 2 Thessalonians. During this nine week study,
you'll learn how to let go of past mistakes and discover your
circumstances are not coincidental - God's timing is impeccable!
Whether you're facing family crises, medical diagnoses,
relationship troubles, doubts, or fears, you'll come away
encouraged that even though it may not feel that way, you are
exactly where Christ wants you to be! All are welcome- this is a
great opportunity to invite your friends and neighbors to share in the
learning, joy and friendship of our group! Study guides are available at
the Lifeway Christian Bookstore. Childcare can be made
available- but Mary will need to know if you need it. Please call
her and let her know so she can coordinate with the nursery
staff. Please call or email Mary Graham at (256) 424-3835 or
marygraham6@bellsouth.net with any questions.



The Children of Grace Need You!
Have you lived in another country? Are you willing
to share your experiences? We are looking for
Grace members or friends to come and share
their life experiences with the children of
Grace. We ask that you talk to the kids for
20 minutes one Wednesday night. You can
share your experiences; games you play;
songs you sing; and favorite places to go.
What a wonderful gift it would be to them,
so please consider sharing in this special way!
Mission Madness is starting soon. Contact Holly Cecil at
hacecil@bellsouth.net if you would like to help.



















New Baby!
Congratulations to Nathan & Katie Rigoni on
the birth of Charlotte Elliana Rigoni on July
19, 2014. Charlotte weighed 8 lbs.13 oz. and was
19 inches long. Welcome, Charlotte!


Recent Baptism
We celebrate with Nancy Horvath on her recent baptism and
profession of faith on Sunday, July 27!
Congratulations to you, Nancy!


Memorial & Honorary Gifts to Grace

Banner Fund
In memory of Juanita Owens mother
- given by Maryann Golson

In memory of Mandy Mitchells Nana
- given by Maryann Golson


General Fund
In memory of Juanita Owens mother
- given by Dell Segler


Green Team
In honor of the Wheelchair Ramp Team
- given by Larry & Denise Pelham


Imagine No More Malaria
In memory of Fran Goodrich
- given by Anonymous




*To make a memorial or honorary gift, please make checks
payable to Grace UMC. On the memo line, list the name of
the person being honored or memorialized, and the fund in
which you wish the money to be deposited.
Prayer Concerns:
Helen Matthews, Joann Wiemers, Jim Martin,
Martha Rothermel, Herb Goodrich, and Stacey
McIntyre.
Welcome to Our Newest Members!
We are so happy to have you in our Grace Family!

Tim & Nancy Horvath
222 Turtle Creek Drive
Huntsville, AL 35806
timhorvath66@rocketmail.com
hallmarknancy@hotmail.com
8

The Grace Youth Times




Issue #47 August 2014
Due to budget cutbacks, weve eliminated all fact checking from the Grace Youth Times. Therefore, you
may not be able to believe anything you read on this page.

LIVING STONES TRIP LABOR DAY
WEEKEND HUNTSVILLE, AL The youth of
Grace UMC are headed to Camp Living Stones in
Engelwood, TN August 30 September 1. The trip
costs $165 per person, due by August 24. A $30 deposit
is due by August 3 to reserve a spot.

Students are excited to return to Living Stones. Its
tradition, you know. We always go and its a great time.
says one Sr. High student. This time last year, I was
warned that a mutiny was planned if we didnt go to
Living Stones, says Youth Director Adam McNeil.
This year, I got us signed up early and weve planned all
the fun stuff the students love.

The weekend includes high and low ropes courses, zip
lining, white water rafting, and a new element the
students havent experienced before.

Go to youth.graceumchsv.org for more info,
signupgenius.com/go/10C0D4CABAA29ABF85-living
to sign up.









YOUTH TO STUDY ZOMBIES,
PASTOR CONCERNED
HUNTSVILLE, AL Pastor Bryan Sisson
is concerned about the youth of his church.
Theyre just so interested in zombies, it has
me worried. I understand that they plan to
study zombies this fall on Wednesday nights. [Youth
Director] Adam assures me that the study is Biblically
relevant, but I just dont see it.

Starting August 6 at 6:00 pm, GUMY will begin reading
The Zombie Apocalypse Survival Guide for Teenagers in small
groups. The book is designed to get students talking
about what seems like small issues today, that become
bigger issues under the stress of the zombie apocalypse.
Some of the lessons are kind of fun and light. Many
get very deep. We talk about a time with no cell phones,
but we also talk about making bonds with others in
order to survive. The youth will have plenty to say on all
the topics. explained one Small Group Leader.

The study takes place each Wednesday at 6:00 pm from
August 6 September 24.


Dates to Remember
August 3 Living Stones Deposit Due ($30)
August 6 September 24, 6:00 pm Small Groups
August 8, 8:00 pm Lock Out
August 10 Promotion Sunday, New Sunday School
classes start
August 13 Family Night Meals begin
August 24 Living Stones Balance Due
($135 after deposit)
August 30 September 1 Living Stones Trip

9


Childrens Ministry Notes

Our Childrens Ministry exists to be a
place where kids:

Know the love and joy of Jesus Christ
Invite everyone to know Him
Develop a heart of service
Seek God and his Word
With each letter in our KIDS Logo having a meaning, we
hope that this assists each of us in sharing with others what
Grace KIDS ministry is all about.


Promotion Sunday
On Sunday, August 10, all children will move up to their
new Sunday School classes.
Grades Kindergarten - 5
th
will meet upstairs for Sunday
School at 10:05. They will meet with Mrs. Darcy for a
few minutes and then break down into 3 age groups:
K/1
st
, 2
nd
/3
rd
and 4
th
/5
th
. We hope this will bring more
age appropriate learning to all the children at Grace.
Age 4 meets in Room 104 with some great volunteer
teachers.
Ages 2/3-Wed like to once again be teaching these young
ones during Sunday School hour. If you are willing to
rotate into this classroom, please contact Darcy Bierer.
Childrens Worship and Wonder for 4 year olds-2
nd
Grades meets during each service. Children are dismissed
during the service to attend this class.


Children's Church Has a New Name!
Beginning Sunday, August 10, Childrens Church will
become Children's Worship and Wonder. We have some great
stories and activities planned, so don't forget to join us on
Sundays during the 9:00 and 11:00 services. Worship and
Wonder is for 4 year olds-2nd Grade. Parents: There will be an
Open House on Sunday, August 3 after the second service. Come
and see the materials and pick up some information.


WEE BZ and BZ
Wednesday night Wee BZ and BZ classes are just around the
corner! Come join us for some fun, interactive time with the
Bible. BZ, for Grades K-5
th
, will be all about Science and
how it relates to God. We'll have guest teachers who know
their stuff, games and other awesome activities! Wee BZ, for
ages 2 years-PreK, will be a fun, age appropriate time to learn
about God's love and His Son, Jesus. All the fun begins on
Wednesday, August 13, at 6:00 pm. See you there!


Acolyte Training
Acolyte Training will take place on Sunday, August 17, at
3:00 pm. Children who are in 1st Grade and up and are
interested in being Acolytes at the 11:00 Service should attend.
Questions? Contact Darcy Bierer.

Club 45
Starting Sunday, August 17, from 5:30 to 7:00 pm
Are your tweens feeling left out? One program is too young, and
the other program is too old. Come check out Club 45, a
program for the middle years which will be led by Jim and
Holly Cecil. The program is designed with your tween in
mind. It will help bridge the gap as the kids transition from
our elementary program to our youth program. We will be
using materials designed by Preteen Ministries.
The first meeting will be an informational meeting for parents.
While parents hash out the details, the kids will be playing
games and getting to know each other. Do you have questions,
concerns, or are you excited to help? Please contact the Cecils at
(256) 828-1387.

Mission Madness
Starting Wednesday, September 24, from 6:00 to 7:00 pm,
bring your kids to Grace to learn about the people who have
embraced the sentiments of the song, Here I Am, Lord.
Here I am, Lord. Is it I, Lord? I have heard you calling in the night.
I will go, Lord, if You lead me. I will hold your people in my heart.
The kids will learn about missionaries and the countries they
serve. Our first program will be about John Wesley, England,
and the English people. Come join us as we learn, sing songs,
play games, and eat!

Movie Mania for Grace Kids
Keep an eye out for upcoming Movie Nights for Graces
Kids. The first movie with be Diary of a Wimpy Kid. Club 45
kids will know why this movie was selected. If movies are not
your childs thing, bring a board game to share. Watch for
more details coming soon. This will be a great time of
fellowship and fun for the kids.
Nursery Ministries
Grace UMC is blessed to have the following
Individuals serve on the Nursery Ministries Team:
Nursery Coordinator: Kalyn Polatty
Brittany Allen Olivia Bell
Sarah Davis Caroline Dobbie
Van Ely Cassie Flowers
Deanna Gipson Samantha Ramsey
Jenny Shaw Ashley Sylvester
Brittany Walton Samantha Weir
10



Grace Family Events

Notes!

A big thanks to Grace United Methodist Church
for your continued support of Relay for Life of
Madison. You are making a meaningful difference.
We al know too many people whove been touched
by cancer. Thank you for joining us in this fight to find a cure.
We truly appreciate you,
Karen Borden, American Cancer Society

Dear Grace United Methodist Church,
Thank you so very much for allowing us to use your church
building for our Lions Gate Book Sale in May! You have
blessed us in so many way. Please accept this donation as a part
of our appreciation.
In Christs Love,
Lions Gate Members

Talent & Treats to Triumph
Join us with your friends and family on Saturday, September
6, from 6:00-8:00 pm in the Grace gym for a delicious potluck
dinner and a delightful talent show with participants of all ages
presenting a wide variety of talents. Admission to the talent
show and dinner is free! Also, a selection of scrumptious baked
goods and desserts will be available for sale to take home with
you following the show.

This event is a fundraiser for a very
special 28 year-old named Jenny
Rhoden who is currently in a
professional treatment center called
the Center for Change in Orem, UT
battling for her life and mental
health against anorexia. A love
offering will be taken during the event to help her cover the
high costs of medical and living expenses while she receives the
care she so desperately needs. All proceeds from the bake sale
will also be put towards these costs.

Jenny is my best friend and a blessing from the Lord to all who
know her. She desires with all her heart to triumph over
anorexia, but she cannot do so without Gods provision. One
of the ways that I know God will bless her is through the
contributions, no matter what size, of people like you. I look
forward to seeing you soon at this fundraiser! If you are unable
to attend, please consider giving a donation. I can give you
information on how to do so if this option is best for you. My
email address is sheehy.ashley@gmail.com. Thank you so
much, and God bless you! - Ashley Sheehy

Due to the large number of events at Grace, only a
few important church events are highlighted here.
Visit our online calendar at www.graceumchsv.org/
calendar for full details. A weekly calendar is also
posted on the church office door.

Important Grace Events in August

August 3 (Sunday) Both Services Blessing of the Backpacks
August 3 (Sunday) 1:00 pm Grace Family Fun Fly
August 3 (Sunday) 3:00 pm Explorations Class Begins
August 6 (Wednesday) 6:00 pm Youth Small Group Begins
August 8 (Friday) 5:00 pm Scrapbook/Crafters Night
August 8 (Friday) 8:00 pm Youth Lock Out
August 9 (Saturday) 8:00 am Church Outdoor Work Day
August 9 (Saturday) 8:30 am Wheelchair Ramp Install
August 10 (Sunday) Promotion Sunday
August 10 (Sunday) 4:00 pm SPRC Meeting
August 10 (Sunday) 12:00 pm GraceFull Players Luncheon
August 11 (Monday) 8:30 am Salvation Army Sandwiches
August 11 (Monday) 2:00 pm Fun Timers Meeting
August 12 (Tuesday) 9:30 am Womens Bible Study Begins
August 13 (Wednesday) 5:00 pm Wednesday Family Nights
Meal & Bible Studies Begin
August 15 (Friday) 10:30 am Meals on Wheels
August 17 (Sunday) 3:00 pm Acolyte Training
August 17 (Sunday) 4:00 pm GraceFull Singers Practice
Begins
August 17 (Sunday) 5:30 pm Club 45 Parent & Child
Information Meeting
August 18 (Monday) Newsletter Deadline
August 18 (Monday) 10:00 am Literary Ladies
August 18 (Monday) 6:00 pm Meals to Grow Packing
August 23 (Saturday) Grace Golf Association
August 24 (Sunday) 5:30 pm Club 45 Begins
August 25 (Monday) 8:30 am Salvation Army Sandwiches
August 28 (Thursday) 12:00 pm United Methodist Women
August 30 - September 1(Saturday - Monday) Youth Trip to
Camp Living Stones
August 31 (Sunday) 12:00 pm Disc Golf Association

11



Greeters
9:00 am
3 Bart Bierer/Don Love
10 Gail Linton/Andrew Riley
17 Liz Hayes/Mary Hayes
24 Mary Iffrig/Gina Barlow
30 Betty & Nick Van Valkenburgh

11:00 am
3 Sangita & Ashok Bhatnagar
10 Steve & Charli Goetz
17 Joanne Weis/Lynn Higginbotham
24 Martina MacIntyre/Tony Lee
31 Amit Patel/JoAnn Gore
Acolytes (11:00 am)

3 Carter Noren-Hentz/Harper Rasmussen
10 John Allison/John Murray Jr.
17 John Murray Jr./Ainsley Lenahan
24 Josie Sisson/Robbie Pierson
31 Carter Noren-Hentz
Guest Deliveries
3 Don Love
10 Jennie Rountree
17 Gina Barlow
24 Tonia Stulting
31 Carl Ivey
1 Ken Philippart
2 Jessica Pelletier
2 David Reynolds
3 Mary Beth Bowman
4 Patrick Shockley
5 Lia Brown
5 Andrew Miller
5 Jay Polatty
5 Connie Weis
7 Margie Milstead
7 TJ Parsons
7 Sammie Pelham
10 Jake Polatty
11 Donna Willis
12 Taylor Thornton
13 Wayne Weis
14 Roy McIntyre
14 Emily Stinson
14 Jerry Weimers
16 Ash Mahanna
16 Sandy Strickland
17 Noah Taylor
17 Connor Graham
18 Jim Myers
19 Nancy Jackson
19 Jim McWard
20 Shannon Rosenthal
22 David Hickman
22 Gene Matthews
23 Gianna Gimenez
23 Garrick Merrill
26 Barbara Andersen
26 Susan Brown
26 Lynn Krome
27 Jonathan Davis
27 Nathan Gunn
27 Cindy Thornton
28 Tricia McCoy
28 Debbie McMullin
28 Christy Noren-Hentz
29 Jake Morgan
31 Marilyn Melis
11:00 am Childrens Church

3 Audra Johns/Renee Davis
10 Darcy Bierer/Patti Runyan/Corey Tolbert
17 Lia Brown/Corey Tolbert
24 Betsy Allison/Shelley Lenahan
31 Darcy Bierer/Bart Bierer
9:00 am Childrens Church

3 Gail Linton/Darcy Bierer
10 Darcy Bierer/Mandy Mitchell
17 Mandy Mitchell/Gail Linton
24 Gail Linton/Gina Barlow/McKenna Barlow
31 Angela Ward/Emily Ward
12









2113 Old Monrovia Rd.
Huntsville, AL 35806



CHURCH OFFICE HOURS
The church office hours are Monday through Thursday from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm. Our pastors and staff are
available by appointment in the afternoons. If you need to contact Pastor Bryan on Friday or Saturday, call his
mobile phone at (256) 527-5042.
BULLETIN DEADLINE
The deadline for information for the church bulletin is Tuesday afternoon. Please contact Vicki Sheehy at
(256) 430-0003 about information that needs to be included.

ARE YOU RECEIVING E-MAIL ANNOUNCEMENTS?
If you have e-mail, we encourage you to join our announcements list. You can sign up online from the church
web page at www.graceumchsv.org.

NEWSLETTER INFORMATION
The newsletter is published monthly, on the 4
th
Monday of each month. Articles are due by the 3
rd
Monday of
the month. Articles are received by e-mail: vickisheehy@graceumchsv.org OR place articles in newsletter
mailbox in church office. Thank you for your contribution of articles.

GRACE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH
Pastors Mobile/Voice Mail # - (256) 527-5042 Pastors emailbryansisson@graceumchsv.org
RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED

Grace UMC is a Safe Sanctuary Church.
Summaries of our Child and Youth Protection Policy are always available.