The Vine - News Blog

Series for kids and parents to study Holy Week

Many people know plenty about Easter Sunday, but sometimes the observances leading up to Resurrection Day are less studied. This year, families with children age 3 through elementary school are invited to attend our series Families Preparing for Easter to learn more about Palm Sunday, Maundy Thursday, and Good Friday.
 


The three-week series begins Thursday, Mar. 31 from 6:30-7:30 p.m. and continues on Apr. 7 and Apr. 14. On each of those nights, we invite families to attend and embrace the observances of Lent. Families can choose to come to any or all of the evenings.
 
We'll be covering Palm Sunday on Mar. 31, Maundy Thursday on Apr. 7, and Good Friday on Apr. 14. The series, which is free of charge, includes plenty of interactive stories and activities for the whole family. 
 
Call Nell Cantwell in the church office if you're interested in the available nursery during this series. If you have any questions about Families Preparing for Easter, contact Beth Evers or Kim Cordell.
 
We look forward to your family joining us this Lenten season.
 
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ArborlawnUMC.org 

A Word from the Pastor: One of the better memories of our lives

By Rev. Ben Disney
 
It’s time to start packing our bags. Construction of our new facilities is nearing completion. In just a few short months, the people of Arborlawn will begin the transition into a new building; but, more importantly, into a new future together. It’s an exciting time in the life of our congregation and community.
 


The Biblical metaphor for stepping out in faith is the word journey; which is what we're on and where we’re going. So, before we embark on this next great move, it’s time to start packing our bags.
  
Travel.com offers helpful advice for travelers in preparing for an extended trip or vacations. The obvious parallels to our particular journey are hard to miss. Suggestions include:
 
1. Plan and follow an itinerary – Meaning it’s important for all of us to know in advance what we’re doing, where we plan to go, how we plan to get there, and, most importantly, where God is leading us.
  
2. Pack light – With every journey the key is to travel light and remain open and free to receive the gifts God has in store for all of us. Some things are essential to carry forward. Some things are better left behind. Undoubtedly, there are things we need to discard and things we need to keep. The wisdom comes in knowing the difference.
 
3. Be prepared for the unexpected – It’s almost a given that this particular journey will bring some unexpected surprises along the way. We’ll have to be quick on our feet, extremely adaptable, creatively resourceful, entirely flexible, and completely fearless in order to meet the challenges. As Henri Nouwen used to say, “The interruptions are the ministry.” Don’t get bogged down or flustered by unexpected inconveniences. They may turn out to be God given moments, rich with unexpected opportunities to experience grace and joy. 
 
4. Have a good map or GPS handy – A church that is lost has no business seeking the lost. The direction of everything we do - our mission, our purpose, our worship, our service - is guided by the One who calls us, claims us, and sends us forth into the world to serve others. 
 
5. Don’t forget to have fun – It’s an incredible ride, but you won’t see it if you’re busy worrying about the little details or getting caught up in the mechanics. Don’t miss the joy. This journey will transform lives, help create new friendships, give new life, foster a new spirit, and provide a deep sense of gratitude as we walk with God and follow Jesus Christ into the next chapter. What we’re doing now will one day be one of the better memories of our lives. 
 
It’s time; time to start packing our bags for the next grand adventure God has waiting for us. I can only imagine what it will be like on that first day. In that moment, we will know again the real truth of what the entire journey is all about. But just in case you might have missed the point, let me remind you once again: the journey was never about building the church; the journey was always about becoming the church. What a journey. What a God.
 
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ArborlawnUMC.org 

Around Arborlawn - 3/25/11

UMW TO FEED TWU STUDENTS
Arborlawn's United Methodist Women group is feeding students at Texas Wesleyan University on Tuesday, Apr. 12 at 11:45 a.m. after chapel. Members of the Ruth, Jerri Savuto and Deborah Circles will be providing the meal. This service project is part of UMW's Mission Education and Campus Ministry.
 
HEARTFELT THANKS
From Peggy and Floyd Grona: Our heartfelt thanks to all our friends for the many kind words, cards, phone calls and hugs we received upon hearing of the death of my brother. Special thanks to the Sojourners class, Ruth Circle, and Pastor Ben for their comforting words. I have no doubt that God led us to Arborlawn in preparation for the deaths of our three brothers in the last two years, a special place with special people.
 
UMM TO SELL SPRING PLANTS
Members of Arborlawn's United Methodist Men group will be taking orders for spring plants this Sunday, Mar. 27. Visit the table in the Gathering Area.
 
WMAA BOOK CLUB
The next meeting of the WMAA Book Club will be on Wednesday, Apr. 6 at 11:30 a.m. in Room 201 SAM Building. We will discussing “Let the Great World Spin” by Colum McCann. We will go to lunch after the meeting.
 
SAVE DATES FOR SUMMERTIME KIDS EVENTS
Mark your calendars for the following kids’ events at Arborlawn: Vacation Bible Camp - July 18-22; Mission Camp - June 20-23; and Choir Camp - June 13-17.

NEW GROUP FORMING TO PROVIDE NEEDLEWORK ITEMS
A new group in the works at Arborlawn will provide baby blankets, prayer shawls, and prayer squares. Those who express their creativity through needlework bring life to color, texture, and design elements. A desire exists through our church to integrate this unique art and skill with prayer for the benefit of others. For information about getting started with this rewarding ministry, please join us on Tuesday, Mar. 22 at 7 p.m. in Room 121.

CHURCH WOMEN UNITED
Church Women United will have its annual book review on Friday, Mar. 25 at 10:30 a.m. at Arlington Heights UMC (4200 Camp Bowie Blvd.). The speaker is Katie Sherrod of the Star-Telegram. Sherrod will discuss two books she edited, “Grace & Gumption: Stories of Fort Worth Women” and “Grace & Gumption: The Cookbook”. Tickets are $5 and are available at the door.
 
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ArborlawnUMC.org 

Lowry to speak at UMW general meeting on April 5

By Pat Feemster
 
The General Meeting of Arborlawn's United Methodist Women will be held on Tuesday, Apr. 5 at 10 a.m. in the Gathering Area. Our very special program will be presented by Jolynn Lowry, RN, FCN. Her subject will be "Faith Community Nurse Ministry." This ministry has recently been established at our church. Learn how each of us can participate in and benefit from this faith and health ministry.
 
We will enjoy a carry-in salad lunch. Our mission emphasis will be collecting funds for school uniforms pants for fall 2011.
 
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ArborlawnUMC.org

Compassion Sunday - April 10

We'll be celebrating Compassion Sunday at Arborlawn on Apr. 10. Learn more on that day about how you can make a significant difference in the life of someone else.
    
 
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ArborlawnUMC.org 

Faithfully Fit Forever about to start second round

Faithfully Fit Forever is starting its second eight-week sessions on Monday, Apr. 4. Sign ups have already begun in the Gathering Area. Attendees choose one of two sessions, morning or evening. The morning group meets at 8:45 a.m. Mondays and Thursdays in 214 SAM. The evening class is at 7 p.m. on Mondays and Thursdays in Room 20 (downstairs; Children's Gathering Area). 
 
The program is an exercise class that has a combined focus on body, mind, and spirit. It can help with weight loss, lowering blood pressure, lowering cholesterol. It can also improve endurance, strength, balance, and flexibility.
 
Participant Carol Haynes said, “I talked with my doctor about this exercise program. When I told him about the theratubing we use, he said he recommends using them, and that they are easier on your joints than using weights." Patty Howarth added, "A good exercise for body and mind."
 
The sessions last one hour, with about 30-40 minutes of aerobic exercise, 10 minutes of discussion on a selected health issue or topic, and 10 minutes of faith and devotion. 
 
Cost is $10 for supplies. For more details, contact Rev. Pam Perrine.
 
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ArborlawnUMC.org 

Connections class moves upstairs

By Todd Evers
 
The Connections class has moved to its new space in Room 109 (the old infant nursery). The room is slowly being transformed into our new space. We have great new carpeting, new paint, and our decorator is hard at work to make this space feel like ours. We have just started a new study titled “The Me I Want to Be.” Join us this Sunday as we take a look at who God has created us to be and how we can flourish as that person. Pastor John Ortberg is our guide through this study, which includes a DVD and a participant’s guide book. Interested or curious? Contact Todd Evers for details.
 
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ArborlawnUMC.org 

The Vision has been defined... Now it's time to live it!

By Karen Gossett
 
There are different kinds of gifts but the same Spirit. There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord. 1 Corinthians 12:4-5
 
Arborlawn recently explored our new Vision Statement in worship, Sunday School, and Bible study groups. As a result of those discussions, the question has been raised, “What do we do now?” The lay-lead event Living the Vision: Volunteering at Arborlawn offers a chance to explore opportunities of service available at Arborlawn.  
 


The event, planned for Sunday, Apr. 10, will be from 2-3:30 p.m. We’ll begin with a gathering in the Sanctuary led by Rev. Ben Disney. The remainder of the day will be spent in two sessions (2:25-2:55 p.m. and 3-3:30 p.m.), and each participant will choose which two to attend.
 
Arborlawn is looking for people who are passionate about serving God in fresh ways. Sessions will be offered on volunteering in the following areas: worship (ushers, communion servers, lay readers), adult education, hospitality and evangelism (greeters, gift bag delivery), music, facilities and grounds, food and events, food pantry, health and wellness, Stephen Ministry, mission opportunities for adults, student ministry, student ministry mission trips, children’s ministry, and office volunteers.
 
Prayerfully consider your participation in Arborlawn Volunteer Ministries. What are you good at? Look for a ministry that is “You-Shaped” (shaped like you!). Plan now to attend Living the Vision and commit to making a difference at Arborlawn.
 
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ArborlawnUMC.org 

Families Preparing for Easter planned for three Thursday evenings

Our Methodist tradition is alive during the Lenten season with meaningful observances, including Palm Sunday, Maundy Thursday, and Good Friday. Families with children age 3 through elementary school have a chance this spring to learn more about these special days.
 
A three-week series called Families Preparing for Easter begins Thursday, Mar. 31 from 6:30-7:30 p.m. and continues on Apr. 7 and Apr. 14. On each of those nights, we invite families to attend and embrace the observances of Lent. Families can choose to come to any or all of the evenings.
 


 
We'll be covering Palm Sunday on Mar. 31, Maundy Thursday on Apr. 7, and Good Friday on Apr. 14. The series, which is free of charge, includes plenty of interactive stories and activities for the whole family.
  
Call Nell Cantwell in the church office if you're interested in the available nursery during this series. If you have any questions about Families Preparing for Easter, contact Beth Evers or Kim Cordell.
 
We look forward to your family joining us this Lenten season.
 
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ArborlawnUMC.org 

Poly Girls visit TCU Engineering, conduct experiments

The Poly Girls – a club for girls ages 8 to 10 from the United Community Centers – participated in their first field trip on Monday, Mar. 7. Rev. Judy Williamson arranged for the girls to be the guest of TCU’s Engineering department. Dr. Becky Bittle and some students from TCU’s chapter of Society of Women Engineers hosted the Poly Girls on the special day. 
 


 
The girls were treated to a slide show about TCU’s engineering school, a campus tour, and two fun experiments. In the first, the girls produced a small wind turbine and learned about electrical engineering principles. Then the girls turned to chemical engineering and produced lip gloss, with each girl getting a sample to take home. 
 
This was the first time for the girls to see and tour the campus. It was an exciting day and opened up a whole new world for them! Holley Williams, Jolynn Lowry, and Frances Martinez (Director of the Poly Center) also participating in the event.
 
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ArborlawnUMC.org 

A Word from the Pastor: Where God is most likely to be at work

By Rev. Ben Disney
 
Having served in a church for so long, it’s hard to imagine what it’s like to walk into one for the first time. Simple questions arise like where to park, which door to enter, what time does everything start? Beyond the simple mechanics are deeper questions related to how someone is supposed to find their place; not just a seat in the sanctuary, but their place in the life and ministry of the church. 
 


Because as jaded as we can be at times, I’m still convinced people arrive on our doorstep every week with better intentions than we sometimes give them credit for. Occasionally a few will come with the expectation that the church was created for the sole purpose of catering to their needs. But the vast majority of people we welcome to this place rarely ask the question, “What can you do for me?” Instead, I hear far more people asking, “What can I do for other people?” Which says a lot about them and a great deal about you as a congregation.
 
So, if I were a first time guest to a place like this and I wanted to help other people and be a part of what God is doing, who would I talk to? Where would I go to find out about what the church is doing? Who could point me in the right direction in terms of where the needs are and where I can find a place to plug in and make a difference?
 
If you’re asking the same questions I have just the place for you. Living the Vision: Volunteering at Arborlawn is scheduled for Sunday, April 10, from 2-3:30 p.m. It’s an opportunity to catch a glimpse of many of the ministries and opportunities available for those searching for a place to plug in and make a difference. 
 
Here’s my covenant. Come and check it out. Take a closer look at all the various ministries and see if one doesn’t stir your heart or tweak your curiosity. No obligations, no manipulating, no salesman will call. But I’m betting on the fact that if you do come, there’s a good chance you’ll discover where you need to be – because it will feel right for all the right reasons.
 
Of course you can avoid it all together and be content to remain on the sidelines, determined to just sit and watch. That’s certainly allowed in churches, even encouraged in some. But that’s certainly not the case here. All I know is if you want to get close to God, it’s best to actually be in the places where God is most likely to be at work. Come to think of it, I can’t recall a single person I ever met who encountered God while they were just sitting on the sidelines watching all the action. Besides, why would you want to miss out on all the fun?
 
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ArborlawnUMC.org 

Around Arborlawn - 3/18/11

NEW BIB NEEDED
We celebrate the birth of Charles Korbin Gass, son of Danielle and Jimmy Gass and grandson of John and Jackie Barry. 
 
SAVE DATES FOR SUMMERTIME KIDS EVENTS
Mark your calendars for the following kids’ events at Arborlawn: Vacation Bible Camp - July 18-22; Mission Camp - June 20-23; and Choir Camp - June 13-17.
  
ROMINE TEACHING IN WARMED HEART
From Diane Johnson: In the Warmed Heart Sunday School class, Rick Romine is teaching a series on Paul’s Epistles, taking us on a journey through Paul’s life and all of his letters. We expect this twelve-week series to run through May 29 and look forward to your joining us in Room 122!
 
PRAYERS OF SYMPATHY
Please join us in prayer for: Rick and Loretta Disney in the death of Loretta’s mother, Eileen Turner; the family and friends of Juanita Reeder; and Nedra Sims in the passing of her sister, Billie Kathryn Lowe.
 
WESTAID
From Peggy Grona: WestAid is experiencing a big increase of clients in  need. They depend on donations, have appreciated Arborlawn’s generosity in the past, and are asking for your help again. WestAid is in need of tolietries (especially toothpaste, shampoo, and bath soap) and any non-perishable food items. WestAid boxes are located in the hall near the parlor and in the SAM Building. Thank you for helping WestAid serve God’s people.
 
NEW GROUP TO PROVIDE NEEDLEWORK
A new group in the works at Arborlawn will provide baby blankets, prayer shawls, and prayer squares. Those who express their creativity through needlework bring life to color, texture, and design elements. A desire exists through our church to integrate this unique art and skill with prayer for the benefit of others. For information about getting started with this rewarding ministry, please join us on Tuesday, Mar. 22 at 7 p.m. in Room 121.
 
UCC NEEDS SCHOOL-AGED KIDS’ CLOTHING
From Joanne Bittiker: The Poly UCC thanks you for coming through with men’s clothing. Keep them coming. We are in dire need of school-age children’s spring and summer clothing. Thank you volunteers. We can meet you in the parking lot on Sunday to save you the trouble of carrying the clothes into the church. Questions? Call Joanne Bittiker.
 
MOMS GROUP: MARCH 22
Arborlawn’s MOMS group will be gathering on Tuesday, March 22nd from 6-7:30 p.m. in Room 105 for fellowship and a focus on hot topics in motherhood. We’ll be sharing ideas about feeding and eating issues, discipline, sleep issues, health and when to call the doctor, and other concerns that many moms have. If you have any books, websites, or other resources that have been helpful to you, we invite you to bring them to share with the group. Also, feel free to bring a snack to share if you wish. Contact Jennifer Bellamy with any questions. If you need childcare, please make a reservation with Nell Cantwell at 817-731-0701.
 
MERRYMAKERS POTLUCK
Merrymakers (Arborlawn’s seniors group) will hold its next potluck luncheon on Wednesday, Mar. 23 at Noon in the SAM Building. They plan to play Chickenfoot after lunch.
 
CHURCH WOMEN UNITED
Church Women United will have its annual book review on Friday, Mar. 25 at 10:30 a.m. at Arlington Heights UMC (4200 Camp Bowie Blvd.). The speaker is Katie Sherrod of the Star-Telegram. Sherrod will discuss two books she edited, “Grace & Gumption: Stories of Fort Worth Women” and “Grace & Gumption: The Cookbook”. Tickets are $5 and are available at the door.
 
POPCORN AT MOVIE NIGHT
From Gary Harrell: The United Methodist Men would like to thank Ron and Karen Perkins, owners of King Korn Gourmet Popcorn, for the donation of popcorn for the Methodist Men’s meeting on Mar. 8 when we screened “To Kill a Mockingbird.” Everyone enjoyed the popcorn.
 
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ArborlawnUMC.org 

Lenten Concerts with Luncheons: March 30, April 6, April 13

Make plans to attend this year's beloved Lenten Concerts with Luncheons on Wednesdays at Noon on Mar. 30, Apr. 6, and Apr. 13. Hear Arborlawn's Sanctuary ring out with cherished music of the season. Then stay and enjoy a light lunch with friends in the Gathering Area. Our musical lineup this year includes Talents of Arborlawn (Mar. 30), Karen White-Dacy (Apr. 6), and Lisa Garrett (Apr. 13).
 
 
 
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ArborlawnUMC.org 

Patient Care study takes a look at state of church health

The Bible study called “Patient Care – Assessing the Vital Signs of Health in the Body of Christ” started this week and runs through mid-April. 
 
The study is taking place in two separate sessions. One study is led by Rev. Beth Evers on Wednesday nights, through Apr. 20, 6-7 p.m. in Rooms 101-102. The other study is Thursday mornings, through Apr. 21, 10-11 a.m. in the Gathering Area. The Thursday morning session is led by Rev. Ben Disney. You can still register here or fill out the form in the back of the Winter/Spring 2011 Adult Discipleship catalog.
 
The series explores the essential elements of what it means to be a healthy and vibrant congregation. Much like a doctor-prescribed MRI scan, we’re looking for potential warning signs of disease and brokenness as well as vital signs of health and wholeness in the body of Christ.
 
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ArborlawnUMC.org 

Study based on Hamilton book starts Sunday

A new study begins this coming Sunday (Mar. 20) that looks at Rev. Adam Hamilton’s book "Making Love Last a Lifetime." Jerry and Nancy Bristow will be leading the study from 5-6 p.m. on Sundays Mar. 20 through May 15. The group will take a one-week break for Easter Sunday, Apr. 24.
 
In this thoughtful and inspiring book, Hamilton offers some keys to helping develop a healthy, satisfying, and successful marriage. He draws on insights from conversations he’s had with more than two thousand single and married persons – from interviews, counseling sessions, and from his own experience in marriage. Hamilton also draws on lessons from the Bible to help people make love last a lifetime.
 
Explore topics rarely discussed in church, such as “What women (or men) wish men (or women) knew about women (or men)” and “After the honeymoon is over.” Married couples and singles are welcome.
 
Registration for this class is available here or by filling out the form in the back of the Winter/Spring 2011 Adult Discipleship catalog.
 
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ArborlawnUMC.org 

Lowry leading July trip to Britain

The Bishop of Central Texas Conference is leading a nine-day trip to Britain starting July 13. Join Bishop Mike Lowry and his wife Jolynn on the Wesley Heritage tour and see the sights made famous by the Wesley brothers and others. A four-page PDF of the trip itinerary is available here.
 
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ArborlawnUMC.org 

Introduction to Arborlawn class starts March 27

The three-session Introduction to Arborlawn class is offered on Sunday at 9:45 a.m. in Room 201 SAM Building on Mar. 27, Apr. 3, and Apr. 10. Rev. Ben Disney and Rev. Judy Williamson teach this class. 
 
The class helps church guests, new members, and experienced members learn more about the church. The overview informs about United Methodist history and beliefs and outlines a pathway of opportunities for future spiritual growth and service at Arborlawn.
 
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ArborlawnUMC.org 

Family Lenten series begins March 31 for three Thursdays

A three-week series to help families of young children prepare for Easter begins Thursday, Mar. 31. Families Preparing for Easter is for families with children from 3 years old through elementary school are invited to join us from 6:30-7:30 p.m. on Mar. 31, Apr. 7, and Apr. 14. (You can choose to come to just one or all three evenings.)
 


The topics are: Mar 31 - Palm Sunday; Apr. 7 - Maundy Thursday; and Apr. 14 - Good Friday. We will have interactive stories and activities for the whole family.
  
This series is free, and a nursery will be available. If you have any questions, please contact Beth Evers or Kim Cordell. 
 
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ArborlawnUMC.org 

Three new Stephen Ministers commissioned March 6

By Rev. Judy Williamson
 
Three new members of Arborlawn's Stephen Ministry team were commissioned on Sunday, Mar. 6 during the 11 a.m. worship service. Laura Gerstle, Dale Westerfeld, and Luann Westerfeld made commitments before the congregation regarding their involvement in this vital ministry.
 

 
In the middle of a sea of good changes at Arborlawn, a group of more than 50 Stephen Ministers quietly work behind the scenes giving confidential and distinctively Christian caring on a one-to-one basis to members of the congregation. They offer informed, positive support to individuals, and this work helps keep the ship afloat in overwhelmingly successful, good times and in stormy, difficult times.
  
Stephen Ministers are trained to help individuals focus on the important elements of a Christian life when normal, ordinary events become surprising or confusing. Each Stephen Minister has received 50 hours of training within the culture of Arborlawn. The Stephen Minister Leaders have spent a week at other locations in the U.S. to complete the Stephen Minister Leader Courses.  
 
During last Sunday's commissioning service, the three new Stephen Ministers were encouraged by other members of the Stephen Ministry by their presence and re-affirmation of vows.  
 
Dean Stacy, Pat Bradley, Bob Bradley, and Martha Darwin lead the Stephen Ministry at Arborlawn.
 
The need for this ministry in our congregation is apparent by the recent quote of a member who has requested a Stephen Minister: "I want a Stephen Minister. I know there are some things that are going to happen in the next few months of my life. I know this service is available at no charge to members. I want to get that faith building in place and working in my life before things get difficult. If I have another supportive Christian who is not among my family and friends who are going through the same things I am going to go through, I know I will manage better what I need and want to face. I want to live this life God gave to me very well."
 
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ArborlawnUMC.org 

Lenten Concerts with Luncheons start March 30

Arborlawn's cherished annual tradition of Lenten Concerts continues this year for three Wednesdays. Join us at Noon in the Sanctuary on Mar. 30, Apr. 6, and Apr. 13 for wonderful music of the season. Then stay to enjoy a light lunch with friends in the Gathering Area.
 

 
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ArborlawnUMC.org