Good News Christmas Party

Last night the Good News Sunday School Class had their 2nd annual Christmas party at the church.

We chatted over supper----some were even lucky enough to be served by Pastor Warren!!





After dessert the fun began as we crafted a photo album and filled it with pictures taken over the last year. We even took a few pictures of the entire group to add to it later.



Being together was a wonderful time to share the joy of the Christmas season and fellowship with other believers!

Children's Christmas Pageant

The Annual Christmas Pageant!  An exciting event - you never know exactly what you’ll get.  Just when you think you’ve seen everything, a new batch of shepherds arrives…and buckle your seatbelts!!! 

 

It was a special evening, and the children did a great job!  Even though it seems like such a simple concept, and maybe a hokey one to some folks, the Christmas Pageant can be a meaningful experience.  Because it’s our children who are involved, we stop our hurried routine to sit and hear the true Christmas story one more time.  Little children telling of the birth of a baby who would change everything!  What a blessing!

LIBRARY BLOG FOR DECEMBER

AT THE LIBRARY

**CHRISTMAS IS COVERED!**

                                              

                                                                                               C   CHILDREN’S STORIES

                                                                                               H   HOLIDAY CELEBRATIONS

                                                                                               R   RUDOLPH TO RITUALS

                                                                                                I    INSPRIRATIONAL STORIES

                                                                                               S   SANTAS AND SUGARPLUMS

                                                                                               T   TRADITIONS. HOW & WHY

                                                                                              M   MUSIC, VIDEOS, DVDS

                                                                                               A  ADVENT, ANGELS, ANTICIPATION

                                                                                               S  SILENT NIGHT, AND SO MUCH MORE

 

 

Community Calendars

The Glorious Sounds of Christmas

Noel Masterworks Concert Series presents “The Glorious Sounds of Christmas”, featuring The Chancel Choir and Chamber Orchestra.  December 14, 5:00 p.m., Noel United Methodist Church Sanctuary, followed by a Taste of Christmas in Fellowship Hall. 

Noel Methodist Church-520 Herndon, Corner of Highland and Herndon

www.noelumc.org        (318) 221-5207

 

 

Fresh Grounded Faith,  Friday, January 30, 2009, 7:00-9:00 p.m. and Saturday, January 31, 9:00 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Summer Grove Baptist Church.  Jennifer Rothschild is returning to Shreveport to once again teach women how to walk by faith and not by sight. Joining Jennifer are special guests, Comedienne, Chondra Pierce, the “Queen of Clean”, and Worship Leader, Alicia Williamson Garcia, who sang with the Christian group, Truth. Tickets are $30.00 General Seating through December 15; $40.00 General Seating after December 15; and $50.00 premier seating (limited, reserved).  Tickets are on sale at the host churches or by calling 1-800-859-7992 or visit www.FreshGroundedFaith.com.

Noel Methodist Church-520 Herndon, Corner of Highland and Herndon

www.noelumc.org        (318) 221-5207

 

M&M’s At Work, Sunday, June 14, 2009-Wednesday, June 17, 2009. This four-day event encourages women of all denominations and races to become more aware of the needs in our community.  Hosted by four of our areas churches, First Bossier Baptist, First Presbyterian, Asbury UMC and Noel UMC, this event combines days of hard work and sacrifice with evenings of fellowship and satisfaction.  The schedule is as follows:  Sunday, June 14, 3:00-5:00 p.m. for registration followed by dinner and worship. Work days will be Monday, June 15-Wednesday, June 17.  Registration is $250.00 which includes a three night stay at the Holiday Inn in Downtown Shreveport, or $130.00, if commuting daily.  Each day will consist of two ½ day shifts working at different agencies in the city concluding with dinner and worship at one of the hosting churches.  For more information, contact the church office at 221-5207.

Noel Methodist Church-520 Herndon, Corner of Highland and Herndon

www.noelumc.org        (318) 221-5207

 

 

 

 

 

If you judge people, you have no time to love them-Mother Teresa

 

Have a Wonderful Day!

 

June Rose Dowis

Noel UMC

221-5207

 

Women's ministry Ark It "2" market Christmas project

Ladies,

During the Greater Gift market Diane Smith and Sondra Alexander approached me about a Christmas mission project!  We are now on our way to raise $5000.00 by December 24 to purchase a ark from the Heifer Project.  Beginning on Sunday, November 23 we will have a table setup where you may get a gift for that hard to buy for lady in your life.  You may give some money to help fund the Gift ark, which is buying 15 pairs of animals to change the lives of people around the world.  We may purchase cows to bring milk and income to a family in Russia, or we might purchase two oxens to pull plows and carts in Uganda, two water buffalos to help families in Cambodia increase rice production through animal draft power.  Ladies, drop by the table or the church office pick up a card to present to your friend and give a gift that makes a difference and brings joy to a family somewhere around this big old world!

 

Also, we will be selling the Fresh Grounded Faith tickets.  Early bird tickets are $30.00 for general seating and $50.00 for premier and you don’t want to miss this wonderful weekend for women!  Questions, call me in the church office.

 

Lots going on and lots you don’t want to miss out on!  Be a part in changing this world we call “home”!

Blessings,

Debbie

 

Debbie Covington

Director of Program and Women's Ministry

Noel Memorial United Methodist Church

(318) 221-5207 church

(318) 423-9000 cell

 

Remember, Psalm 3:3

 

Good News

Sunday, November 9, the Good News Sunday School Class was invited to join several other churches around the city for a party at Broadmoor Baptist Church.





We loaded up the van and headed over to celebrate the life of one of their members and to fellowship with old and new friends.














The food was great and so was the company. After playing a game and making a craft project, we were entertained by the high school STOMP group, who made music with trashcans and basketballs!

Greater Gift Market a Success

This past Saturday, Noel held its first Greater Gift Market, with merchandise from Bead For Life, Ten Thousand Villages and Two Hands Worldshop.








The one-stop shopping experience featured artisans and farmers from around the world. All of the items featured were certified as Fair Trade merchandise, which means the artisans were paid a fair wage for their craftsmanship or farming and have had a safe and healthy working environment for producing their goods.










Fair Trade is a strategy for poverty alleviation and sustainable development around the globe.In addition, there were opportunities to purchase alternative gift items from VOA, Heifer International and our own Food Pantry.














A percentage of the profit from Ten Thousand Villages and Two Hands Worldshop is being returned to Noel's Neighborhood Ministries program for service to our immediate community.

Noel's Library-Check it Out!

 

Noel’s Library – Check It Out!

 

A couple of things that are buzzing at the library, two books in particular. 

 

One is Same kind of Different as Me by Ron Hall and Denver Moore.  This book follows the relationship between two men, one a homeless drifter and the other a world traveling art dealer.  This unlikely friendship was the dream of the art dealer’s wife and the story is amazing and true.  Not only that, it takes place right in Red River Parish and Texas.  Very thought-provoking and inspiring.  We have two copies in the library, but they go fast.

 

The other book is The Shack by William P. Young.  This book has gotten a lot of press around town, even a discussion at Centenary College last week.  This work of fiction centers around a man whose daughter is abducted during a family vacation.  It is suspected that she has been murdered when evidence is found in a shack deep in the Oregon wilderness.  The father is invited back to the shack four years after the incident.  What he finds there will change his world forever.  The Shack wrestles with the timeless question? “Where is God in a world so filled with unspeakable pain?” We have two book copies and one cd.  All are checked out at this printing.

 

These are just two of the thousands of items we have in the Annie T. Munday Library.  Stop by to see us when you get a chance, it is a beautiful place to visit.

 

June R. Dowis/Librarian

REVOLVE

"On Christ the solid rock I stand, all other ground is sinking sand, I will not be moved " --lyrics from Natalie Grant's "I Will Not Be Moved"

Thanks to a very generous, anonymous sponsor from Noel, twelve teenage girls and 6 adults drove over to Dallas September 19 for the REVOLVE Tour, which is sponsored by Women of Faith. The Friday night and all day Saturday event was lots of fun and proved to be an adventure for all of us. Natalie Grant and Hawk Nelson were headlining the music and the messages of both the songs and the speakers were great! The REVOLVE drama team was a favorite, as well as speaker, Chad Eastham. And who could miss the t-shirt/souvenir booth!

What an amazing thing to be in a room with 7,000 teenage girls who are laughing, singing and worshiping God!

Upward and other stuff!

Hey, everybody!  It’s almost time to sign up for Upward Basketball and Cheerleading!  Keep watching the website because pretty soon you will be able to sign up online.  I am working on getting that up and running right now.  If you prefer a paper form, those will be ready in about a month.  I’m excited and I hope you are, too!  I’ll let you know when online registrations can start.

 

 

Mary Green

Greater Gift Market

On Saturday October 25, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Noel will host the Greater Gift Market in the Fellowship Hall. It will be a great opportunity to get a head start on the holiday season and to buy gifts that support sustainable, fair-trade markets around the world.

Last year, Noel (along with several other Methodist churches) hosted a Bead for Life sale and the response was incredible ----we sold out right away of the wonderful handmade necklaces, bracelets and earrings! This year, Noel’s gym will be transformed into a one-stop gift shop featuring a variety of fair trade merchandise. Bead for Life items will be back, but they will be joined by other wonderful gift items from artisans and farmers from around the world. These artisans have been paid a fair price to produce their goods, and each purchase helps them to become more self-sufficient. We will feature a large selection of beautiful jewelry, purses, needlework, bath and body items, toys, holiday ornaments and other handcrafts, as well as coffees, teas and chocolates from Ten Thousand Villages and the Two Hands Worldshop. In addition, there will be alternative gift items available for purchase from our own Neighborhood Ministries and The Heifer Project.

Be sure to mark the date -- October 25 --on your calendar, and pass the word on to friends and co-workers. Flyers will be available in the church office if you would like to post them at your place of business. In addition, if you would like to help out on the day of the sale, please call the church office.


Linda Jamar

Women's Ministry Is Busy

Lots of activities are going on for women around Noel.  Join us Monday, September 15 at 5:30 for dinner and Bible study with Sister chicks.  We laugh a lot and share good fun during our Bible study together! 

 

Also, we have tickets for Going Beyond with Priscilla Shirer!  Call today and reserve your ticket for $35.00.  You will definitely be glad that you attended this event at First Baptist Bossier on September 26 and 27.  Well worth your time and effort!

 

Jennie Dimkoff and The Storybook of Love will be here before we know it on October 18!  Again, an event you don’t want to miss out on.  Jennie is a gifted storyteller and you will truly be blessed by being a part of this special day!  Call today 221-5207 or go online at www.noelumc.org and register today!

 

Questions or ideas for women call me and let’s visit!  We believe all women should join together and encourage each other all the time!

 

Encouraging,

 

Debbie Covington

Director of Program and Women's Ministry

Noel Memorial United Methodist Church

(318) 221-5207 church

(318) 423-9000 cell

 

Remember, Psalm 3:3

 

Helpers Needed for Homebound Ministry

Helpers Needed for Homebound Ministry


The Homebound Visitation Ministry at Noel United Methodist Church is a team of members who minister the homebound members who are unable to attend church or church functions. 

Volunteers for the homebound ministry are matched with a member to become their link to our congregation by providing scheduled visits, or making phone calls, writing notes, delivering altar flowers or helping out in a variety of other ways that reach out to that person in Christian love.

If you, or your Sunday School class, would like to volunteer to help or "adopt" a member, please contact Terri Wehlander at the church office 221-5207 or home 219-9009 or email twehlander@noelumc.org <blocked::mailto:twehlander@noelumc.org> . 

Also contact the church office if you know of a member who could benefit from the homebound visitation ministry.   Our homebound members are those who are confined with limitations to their residential home, assisted living facility or nursing homes. 



Terri Wehlander
Visitation Ministry


Matthew 25: 40 "I'm telling the solemn truth: Whenever you overlooked or ignored one of these, you did it to me.'



--
Posted By Noel UMC to Noel UMC Blog <http://noelumc.blogspot.com/2008/08/helpers-needed-for-homebound-ministry.html>  at 8/28/2008 12:30:00 PM

Cole Slaw Recipe from Fish Fry

Hey everybody,

 

I’ve been asked to share the Oriental Cole Slaw recipe from the Fish Fry the other night so here goes:

 

ORIENTAL COLE SLAW

 

1 large bag shredded mixed cabbage

½ cup sesame seeds

½ cup slivered almonds

1 pkg. ramen noodles (discard seasoning packet)

1 bunch of thinly sliced green onions

 

Dressing:

¼ cup sugar

½ cup vegetable oil

1 ½ tsp. salt

1 tsp. pepper

6 Tbsp. white vinegar

2 tsp. Accent

 

Mix dressing ingredients in a jar and refrigerate.  Toast sesame seeds and almonds separately.  Sesame seed burn quickly.  Mix together.  Crumble ramen noodles and combine all three.  Mix cabbage and onions.  When ready to serve, combine noodle mixture with cabbage and add dressing. 

About 8 servings.

 

P.S. I had some people share that they used sunflower seeds instead of sesame seeds and used cider vinegar instead of white vinegar for this recipe.

 

Hope you enjoy serving this to your family and friends.

 

In Christian Service,

 

Sue Kamm

Summer Youth Fun!!!

Roach motel (conference overbooked)...$39 a night
Synchronized swimming...priceless!

A MOM'S PERSPECTIVE ON LIFE AT NOEL

A MOMS PERSPECTIVE ON LIFE AT NOEL

 

One of the main reasons we joined Noel is so our sons, ages 9 and 11 at the time, would have a great group of kids to hang around and keep them grounded as they grew.  There are many times as parents that we second guess ourselves on the decisions we make, so when one of them turns out to be right, it is truly a blessing.  This past weekend at the end of summer youth retreat, Come to the Cross, I got a full day of witnessing how wonderful a church family can be.  This was a day full of swimming, skiing, tubing, and tons of food, but is was also a day memories are made of.  Our boys have had four years in this church and the relationships they have developed will stay with them for a lifetime.  From building with our Pastor in North Carolina and working in the kitchen with grandmothers to playing trench ball in the gym, my boys have had the privilege of witnessing God’s hand in so many age ranges, cultures and situations.  We are truly blessed to belong to this family of faith.  I take great comfort in knowing that there are strong friendships here that my children can rely on for guidance and support when they need it.  A mother couldn’t ask for anything more.

 

Remove price tags from people. Everyone has worth, the excitement lies in the discovery of thier value.- Leo Buscaglia

 

Have a Wonderful Day!

 

June Rose Dowis

Noel UMC

(318) 221-5207

 

Back to School and back to Church!

Hey Fiends!

Hope everybody is falling into the back to school mode and life is good. I just wanted to remind everyone that our small groups are kicking off again and we have several really good ones offered. Please check out the list on the home page and sign up for something. I'm sure others will invite you too, but you are certainly invited to "Christianity 101" that I will be teaching. This class is a refresher, beginner course in what we believe. If it's been a while since you went over that, just coming back to church in general or you never really got a hold on it, this class just might be for you.

We will cover basic Christianity and we will even give you a Bible for FREE! What a deal! Hope to see you there.

Shalom, Pastor Dave

NOEL'S LIBRARY-CHECK IT OUT!!

 

Hey Guys, Noel’s Librarian here.  That’s right, Noel UMC has a library, not only does Noel have a library, it is the oldest church library in Shreveport.  Just because we are old and steeped in tradition, it doesn’t mean we aren’t up-to-date.   We have a wide selection of books/videos/dvds/cds/ etc. to choose from.  We also have been known to have copies of summer reading material for those of us who wait until the last minute to get going.  And lately, we have a group of people making a dent in a 1000 piece jigsaw puzzle. Our regular hours are Sundays 9:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.  During the week, just call between 8:30-5:00, 3:00 on Fridays and we can more than likely accommodate your visit.   If you haven’t checked out our library in a while, or if you didn’t even know we existed, come check us out!  (318) 221-5207 or email at jdowis@noelumc.org

 

Experience is what you get when you didn't get what  you wanted-Randy Pausch, The Last Lecture

 

Have a wonderful Day!

 

June Rose Dowis

Noel UMC

221-5207

 

Women's Mission Opportunity 2009

Women of Shreveport/Bossier

Recently, I have truly felt God’s calling me to organize a non-denominational women’s work week around Shreveport/Bossier. Noel ladies made a wonderful trip to New York City and did mission work at World Vision, Yorkville Food Pantry and the Taft Houses please see the picture below. It was fabulous! During this trip God kept prodding me that we have things in your back door.

Upon my return to Shreveport, I’ve visited with several churches and next June we are going to come together to work in different organizations around Shreveport/Bossier to help our neighbors. The dates are June 14 – 17, 2009 and it will be a wonderful few days. Ladies, join us and pass the word along to other women to check this opportunity out. Watch for M & M at work!

Join the team of Asbury Methodist, First Baptist Bossier, First Presbyterian and Noel in June 2009! Call me at 221-5207 to ask questions and sign up!

Sweet Blessings,

Debbie Covington

Caregivers Support Group

On the second Monday each month, the Caregivers Support Group meets in Noel’s ARK to have lunch, to have fellowship and to hear a speaker on a different topic related to care giving.  This month Annette Fortuna will be sharing with us about her experiences as a caregiver.  She’ll be giving us some hints on how to keep our spirits lifted while we are caring for a loved one or friend.  Coming to a support group helps because you can be around people who understand what you may be dealing with on a daily basis.  It also gives you a short break from your routine.   Just give us a call at 221-5207 to let us know you want to come.  Our next meeting is Monday, August 11 at 12 noon.  Maybe this is just what you need!

 

Sue Kamm,

Adult Ministries

Weekend of the Cross - A success!

Well, the youth are back from Weekend of the Cross and all went well. God showed up and provided clear blue skies (even though some of us prayed hard for rain to cool it off!)  But sunny it was and so were the people. What a great way to give back to the Shreveport Community. Weekend of the Cross is just one way that we try to “make a difference for the sake of Christ, starting right here!” Great job everyone!! 

 

In Christ,

Jonathan

 

Jonathan Andrews

Youth Director/Contemporary Worship Leader

Noel UMC

520 Herndon St

Shreveport, LA  71101

318-221-5207 (work)

318-834-2946 (cell)

jandrews@noelumc.org

 

I had good things planned for my life but God had GREAT things in store. -  J. A.

Women's Ministry Mission Trip

New York here we come! Fourteen women are headed to the The Big City Saturday morning and we ask for your prayers! We are going to work at the World Vision Storehouse, Yorkville Food Pantry, Taft House in East Harlem and we are going to visit some of the New York tourist sites.

We need your prayers and your support! Watch for us on Thursday morning on CBS Early Show. We will have a few Noel signs. We will do our best to get a sign up front for Noel. Have a wonderful week and we will see you back in our regular pews on Sunday, June 15, 2008.

Conspire Children's Ministry Conference

I just got back a week or so ago from Chicago where I attended the Willow Creek Association Conspire Children's Ministry Conference. The conference got its name by combining the words 'connect' and 'inspire'. It lived up to its name. There was lots of time for visiting with folks from all over the country which was interesting. Even though they talk funny, they face many of the same issues we face. (For some reason they thought I talked funny! What's up with that?!?) I got to experience some great worship and hear a variety of speakers. Some of the speakers included a Disney animator and a Disney voice talent director as well as Phil Vischer, who created Veggie Tales. The editor of "Children's Ministry Magazine" gave an inspiration talk. It was a lot to absorb in just 2.5 days. I came back with a few new ideas and refreshed energy, but I also came back with the belief that we are doing lots of things right. I'd love to tell you more about my trip. When you have a minute (or twenty), ask me about it.

Notes from Children's Ministries!

What a spring! The year is flying by, but I can't complain. I am counting the days until school is out almost as much as my children are! Summer is going to be great! You don't want to miss Beach Party VBS and Upward Sports Basketball and Cheerleading camps! They are both in July this year. Check out Noel's calendar frequently. Stuff is happening all the time!

Summertime at Noel!

Hey guys! We promise we haven't forgotten about you! Things are really busy these days at Noel. We are gearing up for one great summer. Mary is busy working on plans for another excellent VBS and Upward Sports Camp. Jonathan and the youth are planning on this year's Weekend of the Cross. Debbie is getting ready for the Ladybug's Women's Retreat. And not to mention Brian and the musical delights our choirs will be bringing us in the coming weeks! There might still be a chill in the air but summer is just around the corner and we're ready for ya! So come join us!

Also don't forget! We will be dedicating the Trickett Memorial Garden during all 3 worship services this Sunday, May 4. You can see photos of it by clicking the link in my post below.

Trickett Memorial Garden Photos

I have added photos of the Trickett Memorial Garden at Noel to the photo gallery. The garden will be dedicated on May 4, 2008. Click here to go to the gallery.

YOUTH - - - Weekend of the Cross

Weekend of the Cross is coming soon! If you are interested in the best local mission outreach available here in Shreveport, sign up now! Youth and adults welcome.

• Registration fee before May 1st -- $130
• Registration fee after May 1st --$150

Information and registration forms available at http://www.noelumc.org/connected/youth.html.

Spring Showers

I have updated the photo gallery with photos from the Spring Showers women's ministry event held on March 31. Click here to go to our gallery to see these photos and ones from the Easter Meal Celebration.

Spring Break Lock-in!!

Another successful Youth lock-in! Man, I'm getting too old for this!!
Thanks to all the volunteers but especially Erin and Brian Middleton for their outstanding commitment - ten hours to be exact. Let's do it again.......(in six months or so!)

Blessings,

Jonathan

For more information about Noel Youth ministries contact:
Jonathan Andrews
Director of Youth Ministries
520 Herndon Street
Shreveport, LA 71104
318-221-5207
jandrews@noelumc.org

New Feature: Photo Gallery

A photo gallery has now been added to our website. You will find the link to it on our home page under quick links. I have posted photos from the Easter Meal Celebration this month. You can check them out by going here.

Mexico Mission Trip 2008

Our team of 28 from Noel and other churches went to Juarez, Mexico during the week of Feb. 17-22. We had a great group ready to serve God through the ministry of Proyecto Abrigo. We built 3 houses for 3 families that week, and also helped start the building of the new dorm for teams. We had perfect weather (except for 1 sandstorm!), awesome teamwork and a true spirit of serving and fellowship that week. Check out some of the pictures of our trip below!!

Palm Sunday is here!

Hey, folks! I can't believe Palm Sunday is this week! We will have our annual Palm Parade in both worship services. And the Children's Choir will sing in both services! Any child, infant through 5th grade, is welcome to participate in the parade. Of course, moms and dads who need to assist their infants or toddlers are more than welcome to join in! We'll meet in the Children's Building downstairs at 10:15 to line up for the Traditional service. After we process and sing in that service, we will go back to the Children's Building for a quick snack. Then it's off to process and sing again in the N.O.W. service! It's a fun and exciting day at Noel!

WHAT WE DO....

Folks seem to think, sometimes, that we staffers don't do much except on Sundays. Well... here's proof that they're just wrong. Turn on your sound, for your enjoyment.

Answers to Wesleyan Hymn Study Questions

Well, I had about four responses to the questions posted a couple of weeks ago. Only one of them, Ben Green, actually attempted to look up the answers! Thank you, Ben. Anyway, here are the answers. I hope you find it interesting!

Pictured above are those attending the class. Mrs. Haacker was absent when the picture was taken.

1. When did Charles Wesley Live?

1707-1788

2. How Many Hymns & Sacred Poems did he write?

Over 6,000. Some sources say there could have even been as many as 9,000.

3. Did Charles write the text, music, or both?

Only the text. In fact, there isn't really any evidence that he had any real musical training at all. He had some sort of organ in his home (probably a reed pump organ), so it is assumed that he must have played it, and he played the flute a little. If you look in our hymnal, you will see at the bottom of the page that most of the tunes we sing these texts to were written about 100 years after Wesley wrote them. Most of them are fairly easy to set to existing tunes since he used common poetic meters, including iambic pentameter.

4. Did brother John write any hymns?

This one is sort of a trick question. You may notice that there are several hymns attributed to John in our hymnal. However, he did not actually write any of the texts. John simply took existing texts and either translated or altered them to fit a tune.

SNOW!

Check out the snow at the church! It was beautiful for a while this morning. It has stopped now, but hopefully we're not done. Despite the snow, the World Day of Prayer Service, being held in our chapel by the Church Women United and our United Methodist Women, is going on right now, and is well-attended.

Hope you enjoyed this beautiful Spring blessing!

Hello from Debbie with Women's Ministry

Hello ladies! I wanted to thank everybody for your prayers! I feel God's strength daily walking through the rubble of my home. I was able to save my puppies and myself and the firefighters saved some pictures for me. Thank the next firefighter you see they do an amazing ministry!!!

Ladies, Spring Showers is a few weeks away and it is about Blessings! Sign up today or call with your questions. It is about celebrating our blessings and we all need a celebration! Call 221-5207 and sign up now or go to our website and sign up! www.noelumc.org

Again, keep Kenny and myself in your prayers! We need them right now more than ever!!!

Blessings,
Debbie

New Photos Uploaded

I have added some more photos that have been sent to me. There are several from previous mission trips on our missions page. Also there are really good ones from the Highland Parade last month posted here.

TheDEEP in Israel, March 9th & 16th

Don't miss the visit!

I got a chuckle with this sign showing the way to Lazarus Tomb. Sort of takes a little away from "the holiness" of the sight.

Just wanted to give you a teaser of some of the pictures we'll be showing, as mentioned in Sue's note below. We will be sharing our pictures and stories and reflections from our journey. On the 9th, we'll focus on the Sea of Galilee and surrounding areas, and on the 16th, we'll focus on Jerusalem and surrounding areas.

Look at these photos. The one on the left is a photo from the 30's, when a group from England purchased "The Garden Tomb". This is how the rock appeared then... the rock is supposedly the site known as Golgotha. You see the eyes and mouth in this shot. The picture below is one I took from atop the Jerusalem wall, overlooking the bus terminal that now covers the nose and mouth of Golgatha. See the eyes?

Eerie, huh?

There are tombs atop this rock, where Jesus may have been crucified.

Come see more this Sunday evening at 5:00 p.m. A nursery will be provided and we will finish promptly at 6:30.

Cya there!

-Rev. Beth

Holy Land trip

That was an amazing trip - to walk where Jesus walked, to see places He saw, to touch the water of the Sea of Galilee, to have our baptism vows renewed at the Jordan River, to walk the Via Dolorosa, to take communion near the Garden Tomb - those experiences were so powerful. There were so many other places we went that I have not mentioned. I encourage you to come the next two Sunday evenings to see the pictures and hear Marjorie, Todd, Rachel, Sondra, Rev. Beth, Rev. Sione and me share our experiences in the Holy Land.

In Christ,
Sue

Class Acts Pottery

Check out Paul Brown and Ben Green enjoying pottery during Class Acts. These creations of fish plates were just wonderful! Can't wait to see the final product. I'm thinking this should be an ongoing ministry here at Noel. Folks of all ages can enjoy using their hands to create masterpieces! This is just one of the classes you've missed if you've not been here on Tuesday nights. Anyone interested in making this a permanent ministry? Got other ideas for new ministries at Noel? Let us know! Now's the time!

Charles Wesley & Expressing Faith Through Song

We are having a great time and learning some interesting things in the Wesleyan Hymn Study. Here are a few questions to get you thinking:
1. When did Charles Wesley live?
2. How many hymns and sacred poems did he write?
3. Did Charles write the text, music, or both?
4. Did brother John write any hymns?

See if you can answer any of these questions. If you know them, email me or tell me at church......this will let me know how many people are reading this!

I'll post the answers in a couple of weeks.

Bryan

Wow, another Monday! Ladies, tonight is Sister Chicks at 6:00 p.m. in Fellowship hall. We would love for you to come and share in Bible study and laughter! Yes, we have a good time while we study. We have all generations involved with fun and food! Childcare is provided we have everything you need to enjoy an evening out with your friends. We look forward to you joining us this evening! Call 221-5207, with any questions!

Photos from Anita Renfroe event added!

Photos from the Anita Renfroe event at the Strand have been added to our website.

Click here to check our our women's page to see snapshots from the wonderful evening hosted by Noel.

Calling all photographers!!!

We need your help!!!

We are in desperate need of photos from any and all of Noel's events! I am currently trying to add new photos to the website, but the problem is that I don't have very many! If you happen to have photos from any recent church event please e-mail me at mrigby@noelumc.org. Don't forget your camera next time you come up to the church; we need photos of our bright smiling faces!!!

Noel NOW Newsletter

Wondering what's new at Noel? Read your Noel NOW newsletter right here on our website or if you would like to be added to our mailing list, contact the church office.

If you would like to publicize an event, e-mail me at rbogan@noelumc.org. I will need it at least two weeks in advance. I can't promise that I will be able to publish it, but I try to find room. There is just so much going on around here at Noel, that sometimes I am not able to include everything. That is why the earlier you can get something to me, the better possibilty I will get it published. Hope to hear from you! Rozi

Women's Ministry

Well, one week since the big comic relief! Thank you to all that joined us at the Strand for a night of laughter and fun. We are recovering around 520 Herndon and beginning the plans for Spring Showers! Spring Showers will be an evening about blessings and remembering the good things about this journey! Saying thank you to our Heavenly Father for blessings and each other! We would love for you to visit Noel and check out the Women's Events along with all the other happening things around Noel. Remember mark your calendar for March 31! Thanks again for the support shown by attending the event at The Strand. Happy Valentine's Day! Blessings, Debbie

CLASS ACTS and TheDEEP

It's not too late to join us for Class Acts! -- Tuesdays until March 18th. We have a great choice of classes available, for your varied tastes: Beginning Pottery, Beginning Photography (can't figure out all the buttons on your digital camera and reading the instruction manual is a joke? This one's for you!), Ballroom Dancing (bring a partner or take your chances!), Bible Study with Annette Fortuna ("Grace - Don't live life without it"), Enneagram Discussion Group, Charles Wesley Hymn Study with Bryan Bierbaum. Give me a call (221-5207), or send me an e-mail (revbeth@noelumc.org) for more information or to register. Remember also that we have dinner being served at 5:30 pm and the classes begin at 6:00.
And if you're looking for a small group to join, come on into TheDeep, meeting Sunday nights from 5:00-6:30 pm. We're studying a book right now called Growing Spiritual Redwoods and it is all about the practice of Christianity, and how we "do" church in a changing world. We have very engaging discussions and we don't shy away from any topic! Come on into TheDeep... the water's fine!
peace!
RevBeth

Away We Go Again!

Well, we off to Mexico again this Saturday evening and this time we plan to build 4 houses. I know this mission outreach is not for everyone but if you've ever thought about doing something like this, consider going next year. I go not because I'm the preacher or because I feel guilty - I go because it's a blast! We have a ton of fun.
Please say a prayer for us while we're away and for our families and jobs we leave back home. And while you're at it, please pray for Fane and William Peeples who leave tomorrow for India. This has been a life long dream for Fane finally coming to life. They will be working in a hospital there and with the existing mission efforts.
Noel is really a cool church when it comes to mission. We have so many opportunities, most right here but others as well. If you haven't plugged in yet... well, God is counting on you.
Hasta la vista, Dave

New from Children's Ministries

I just want to remind everyone about the Parental Consent form that I need completed for each child who participates in Noel's children's activities. I am sending out a letter and some forms to parents today! If you don't get one, let me know. Anyone wanting to go to the Mudbugs game on Sunday needs to turn one in ahead of time! Thanks. Mary

New Blog Feature

Hello everyone!

Welcome once again to our new blog! I am glad to you decided to check out what we have going on at Noel. I am pleased to announce that you can subscribe to your blog via e-mail. If you look at the left side of this page at the bottom, you will see a place to insert your e-mail address. Each day that there is a new post made, an email will be sent to you that will include the post in it. This is a great way to make sure that you don't miss a thing!

Also, don't forget that anyone can leave a comment on our posts. We will be happy to respond to any questions you may have! If you have any questions or comments regarding our website and/or blog, please feel free to contact me at mrigby@noelumc.org.

Hello from Children's Ministries

Well, I'm officially entering the blogosphere, I guess (with the help of my 12-year-old son). I hope to get blog savvy fairly quickly, so you can check back here for the most up-to-date info about what is happening in the Children's Building. Right now, here's a quick list of goings on:

• Upward Basketball and Cheerleading every Saturday morning through March 1st
• Upward Sports Awards Celebration - Sunday, March 2 at 5:00 in Fellowship Hall
• Sunday, February 17 - Mudbugs game - meet at 3:15, game at 4:00, return at 7:00ish
• Sunday, February 24 - Pajama Movie Night - 5:00 - 6:30 in the Children's Building for K - 5th grade
• Children's Choir every Sunday morning - 9:00 - 9:30 (Ya'll sounded great Sunday morning!)

That's all for now. I'll keep blogging if you'll keep coming back! Mary

CHECK THIS OUT!

Hey, Folks!
Welcome to our new blog space. Things are really busy around Noel these days and we hope this new avenue will help us keep in touch with you AND keep you up to date on all that is going on.

The big deal on the plate at the moment is Anita Renfroe at the STRAND! It's tomorrow night and there are still some tickets available if you can break loose. She is a riot and a blessing all at the same time. You will be glad you took the time if you do get to go.

This Sunday is a big day as well. We'll celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Upper Room Class and we have a special guest speaker for the 10:30 Traditional service. Dr. David Trickett will be with us. David is the president of Iliff School of Theology in Denver, Colorado, and his father was an associate at Noel years ago.

We also have a missionary team being consecrated Sunday morning. Our team of 27 will head to Mexico to build 3 (maybe 4 - if we can raise the money!) houses in the "cardboard neighborhoods" of Juarez. Each person in worship will receive a missionary's name for which to be praying. You will also have the opportunity to purchase "blocks" to help pay for the houses as team members will be seeking donations around the church.

It's a great time to be a part of Noel UMC. Hope to see you around, Dave

What about 1John 1:5-10?

Hello any and all comers. I just read the above mentioned Scripture and was considering verses seven and nine especially.

Verse seven says if we walk in the light we have fellowship with one another. So fellowship is the fruit of a person who walks in light? Blogging as fellowship, very interesting.

Verse nine says if we confess sin (and we all have sin it says) then the Faithful One forgives. Blogging as confession, very scary.

Does anyone out there think we miss out on the light offered to us by not fellowshipping in ways that allow us to confess when we miss the mark and fail to love as Jesus loved?

Thoughts for the day from a child who is still a little afraid of the dark.

Peace to you.

Todd

Anita Renfroe

Don't forget Anita Renfroe will be at the Strand this Thursday! Call the church office at 318-221-5207 for more information!