The Vine - News Blog

A Word from the Pastor: Silent night. Radical change.

 
By Bryan Bellamy
 
It is a story that a child can understand but at some level it is beyond our comprehension; a child born on a silent night who radically changes the world; angels who light up the darkness as they announce his birth; a God who is not distant but fully present in our world, who is willing to sacrifice it all to be in relation with us.
 

It is a story of the birth of Christ, our messiah – any child can recite it – its profundity escapes my limited understanding and yet it fills me with hope. Christ has been born, our lives have been transformed, God lives among us.
 
It is the story of our faith. It is the Gospel truth. Share the story and give thanks to God.

Three different candlelight services offered this Saturday; one service for Christmas, New Year

 
You have three opportunities to worship on Christmas Eve, at either 5 p.m., 7 p.m., or 11 p.m. All services feature candlelight. The early service is great for families with children. The Chancel Choir sings during the 7 p.m. service, while the late service is led by Bishop Mike Lowry of the Central Texas Conference.
 

Child care is available for the two earlier services but not at 11 p.m. On Christmas morning we are holding only one Sunday service at 10 a.m. in the Sanctuary. We will do the same thing the next week on New Year's Day. Please note valet parking is not available on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day, but it is available on New Year's Day.
 
It's still not too late if you want to help us greet visitors during the Christmas Eve candlelight worship services, especially at the 11 p.m. Please contact Kelly Keller or Carol Proctor if you want to help.
 
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ArborlawnUMC.org

Finishing Strong in 2011

 
By Ben Disney
 
We come to the end of a remarkable year in the life of Arborlawn. God continues to work in and through us. New ministries have been created, lives have been touched, the congregation continues to grow, and opportunities to serve and witness to God’s love abound. In this historic and memorable year, we were privileged to celebrate the opening and consecration of our new worship and educational facilities. We’ve been deeply blessed by God and called to be a blessing to others.
 
On behalf of the church I simply want to express my deep and sincere appreciation for your faithfulness and generosity in supporting the ongoing mission and ministries of the church. In an uncertain and difficult economy, you continue to embody the best of what it means to be the body of Christ in this world. It is a privilege and an honor to serve with you.
 
As we near the wonderful celebration of our first Christmas together in the new sanctuary please remember:
 
* The original “A Legacy of Faith, A Future of Promise” capital funds campaign and formal pledges made toward the new facilities officially comes to an end in 2011. We’re deeply grateful to all who have faithfully and sacrificially fulfilled their pledges and commitments. With God’s help you made all this possible. Beginning in 2012, the congregation will be able to continue contributing to the building fund or the general operating fund of the church to fund expenses related to the construction of our new facilities. If you were unable to fulfill your pledge because of circumstances beyond your control, please know that if you’re able you can still contribute through either the building fund or the general operating fund of Arborlawn.
 
* As United Methodists we are deeply committed to our connectional partnership with other UM churches through our shared apportionment giving to ministries beyond the local church. The 2011 apportionments include the World Benevolence Fund, Africa University, Missional support, as well as offering support within our own conference for the ministries of Glen Lake Camp, United Community Centers, and the Lydia Patterson Institute in El Paso. To date we have $161,230.00 remaining to be paid for our 2011 apportionments. It’s a monumental challenge, but in this season I’m reminded of two fundamental truths: 1) “All things are possible with God” and 2) Arborlawn is living proof of that first truth.
 
Again, thank you for your generosity and faithfulness. I pray for you and your loved ones a most blessed and wonderful Christmas celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ!
 
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ArborlawnUMC.org

The Bible in 90 Days coming shortly after the holidays

 
We've been talking for quite a while about The Bible in 90 Days, the program where congregations can read every word of the Bible as a group - with the encouragement, accountability, and group purpose that brings.
 

We'll kick this project off the week starting Sunday, Jan. 8, with small groups meeting on Sundays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays through Lent and Easter. We hope you'll participate with us as we anticipate what God will have in store for us when we pay such close attention to the Word. Read more and register today - it's still not too late!
 
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ArborlawnUMC.org

Anne Van Beber speaks on healthy holiday food choices

 
By Pam Perrine, RN/FCN
 
Dr. Anne Van Beber’s presentation about Health Eating for the Holidays gave great insight about eating, not only for the holidays, but also healthy eating for all days. Van Beber said she doesn’t really talk about "eat this, not that." She focuses on moderate food consumption as the key. She emphasized the need to look at the ratio of fat, carbohydrates and protein. Also, it's important to balance our sugar intake with the other foods we eat. She suggested we look at the paintings of the Last Supper; of how for almost 1000 years the plates were smaller and in the paintings these last ten years the relative size of the plates as well as the portions on the plates have increased.
 

Van Beber started her presentation by giving participants a quiz about choosing the healthier foods, which generated a lot of energetic, fun discussions. Questions such as: which food is better to top off a turkey? half cup mushroom gravy or half cup cranberry sauce? The answer is the mushroom gravy. Both have zero saturated fat, but the mushroom gravy has 55 calories, while the cranberry sauce has 209 calories. The mushroom gravy has two grams protein, while the cranberry sauce has zero protein. The mushroom gravy does have 471 mg sodium if a person has concern about her sodium intake, while the cranberry sauce has only 40 milligrams of sodium.
 
Another question on the quiz was about three ounces of sliced ham versus a turkey drumstick. The ham portion is the healthier option here as it has 139 calories versus the turkey drumstick with 416 calories. The sliced ham has two grams fat, while the turkey drumstick has four grams fat. Another consideration is the sliced ham has too much sodium for a person with high blood pressure: the three ounces of sliced ham has 1,109 mg of sodium compared to the turkey drumstick having 197 mg.
 
These are only a few of the healthier options that were on the quiz. Other comparison foods included: Which is healthier, one cup of stuffing or one cup of mashed potatoes? A slice of apple pie with whipped topping or a slice of apple pie alamode? Four mini crab cakes or three bacon-wrapped scallops? Four mini quiches or four tablespoons of hummus on four whole-wheat crackers? A handful of mixed nuts or ten large green olives? Six ounces of champagne punch or six ounces of champagne? Two slices of cinnamon-raisin French toast or a cinnamon-raisin coffee roll? A chocolate frosted donut or a French cruller? A cup of hot cocoa or a cup of dessert tea(ginger, peppermint, etc.)? Four ginger snaps or four pecan shortbread cookies?
 
You might be surprised at the answers as were many of the participants. The full quiz and answers with explanations can be found here.
 
Anne Van Beber encourages people to eat off a 10-inch plate for the largest meal of the day for one month. This will help control weight. She stressed the importance of exercise, of eating at home instead of in a restaurant (and, if eating in a restaurant, to eat half of the portion served and to take the rest of it home), to eat regularly, and to visualize what you eat before eating the big meals. Van Beber and two of her students also  prepared and brought three foods (and the recipes) for all to enjoy.
 
This presentation was part of the Faith Community Nurse Ministry and its Health and Wellness team to help make our holidays and all of our lives better.
 
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ArborlawnUMC.org

WMAA study about James begins January 11

 
Women's Ministries at Arborlawn announces the newest Wednesday morning Bible study, a look at James: Mercy Triumphs by Beth Moore. Join us Jan. 11 through Feb. 29, 9:45-11:45 a.m. in Room 225, Main Building.
 
James, Jesus' own brother, started a skeptic. See in this study how one glimpse of the Savior turned an unbeliever into a disciple. Using Beth Moore's newest study and DVD-based lessons, we explore the spiritual journey of James.
 
Contact Shirley Watkins to reserve your workbook.
 
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ArborlawnUMC.org

Spiritual gifts class starts Sunday, January 15

 
By Judy Williamson
 
You have special gifts entrusted to you to help build the Kingdom of God. Learn what they are and ways to use your unique gifts in our connecting class "Your Spiritual Gifts" on Sundays January 15, 22, and 29 at 9:45 a.m. in Room 160.
 
This class is open to all… church guests, new members, and veteran Arborlawn members. Books and materials are provided. You will learn to discover your own spiritual gifts and recognize the spiritual gifts in others. This class is about possibilities. It is an encouraging beginning to your new year. This is one of the four classes that connect you to interesting people and authentic information about Arborlawn.
 
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ArborlawnUMC.org

Be here Christmas Eve as we celebrate the Christ Child

 
This Christmas Eve we are once again holding our beloved annual Candlelight Worship services. Join us at either 5 p.m., 7 p.m., or 11 p.m. as we celebrate and honor the Christ Child and remember the humble Nativity.
 
The 5 p.m. service is especially for families with kids. At 7 p.m. you can enjoy hearing Arborlawn's Chancel Choir. This year's new 11 p.m. service will be led by Bishop Mike Lowry of the Central Texas Conference.
 

Child care is available for the two earlier services but not for the 11 p.m. service.
 
On Christmas morning we are holding only one Sunday service at 10 a.m. in the Sanctuary. We will do the same thing the next week on New Year's Day.
 
Please note valet parking is not available on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day, but it is available on New Year's Day.
 
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ArborlawnUMC.org

Prayer Ministry introduces new boxes

 
By Ben Disney
 
Arborlawn’s Prayer Ministry added three Prayer Boxes to our common areas this week. We would like to thank Jim Helvey for the beautiful work he did getting them together for us. 
 

You will see the boxes in three areas: the Lower Commons outside of the Sanctuary, the Upper Commons outside of the Worship Center, and the Gathering Area.
 
The locked boxes provide a confidential way for you to submit prayer requests, and they will be checked weekly to ensure your requests are added to the prayer list and brought before God.
 
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ArborlawnUMC.org

Faithfully Fit Forever starting back up January 5

 
Arborlawn's Faith Community Nurse Ministry announces that the Faithfully Fit Forever sessions will begin again on Thursday, Jan. 5. You can either exercise at 9 a.m. on Mondays and Thursdays or join the evening group, which meets at 7 p.m. on Mondays and Thursdays. Both groups meet in Room S-10, SAM Building (the large assembly area). There is a minimal cost of $10 for equipment.
 

Faithfully Fit Forever is a program geared toward men and women (youth and adults) of all ages. The program is designed for people who regularly exercise as well as those who have not been participating in regular physical activity. This program can help with weight loss, lowering blood pressure, improving endurance, strength, balance and flexibility. Participants use both theratubing and free weights for exercise. The exercises are geared toward each participant’s goals. Each session includes physical activity, devotional time and health issue discussions.
 
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ArborlawnUMC.org

A Word from the Pastor: Longing for a better world

 
By Ben Disney
 
A recent news report detailed the sad case of two thieves in Dallas who are accused of stealing a Salvation Army kettle containing donated money collected during the annual Christmas drive to assist those who are in need. As if that wasn’t bad enough, the report also revealed that the two suspects took the familiar red kettle display and Salvation Army sign and set up shop outside the North Park Mall in Dallas posing as volunteer bell ringers for the charity.
 

For several weeks numerous shoppers and visitors to the mall generously placed money in the red kettle unaware that the display was stolen and the volunteers were bogus. The scam was uncovered when a Salvation Army employee became concerned that neither volunteer was wearing a red apron which is standard attire for volunteers. The thieves have been arrested. The total amount of money mistakenly donated by unsuspecting shoppers has yet to be determined.
 
It’s difficult to imagine how anyone could do something like that. Especially money designated to help people in need and donated by generous and compassionate individuals during the Christmas season. But if you’re like me, nothing really surprises us anymore.
 
But there’s another side to the story. Two thieves who steal a red kettle and pose as Salvation Army volunteers are a sure bet to make the 6 o'clock news. The two who stole the kettle will make headlines; all those kind and generous people who put money into it never will. Two incredibly dumb criminals were brazen enough to steal money from an organization that helps those who need it most, and I watched it featured on the news. Contrast that with the thousands of people stop by every day and drop their hard earned money into a kettle in the belief and hope it will make a difference in someone’s life.
 
That, to me, is the real story; that in a tough economy and a culture full of hardened cynics, the vast majority of people are still trying their best to do the right thing. They get up every day, work hard, go to school, raise their families, and believe the world can be a better place. They live with a sense of hope and faith. They’re generous and kind. Imperfect as they are, they still long for a better world and know deep down the most important changes needed always begin with them.
 
This Christmas, train your eyes on all that is good and right. Put the paper down, tuck the iPhone away, and turn the TV off. See again the beauty of God’s creation. Hear the laughter, recall the memories, and take a moment to watch the children playing. Remember how good people can be and how wonderful life is in the best moments of our lives. It’s Christmas; no darkness can overcome it, no evil can destroy it, and even the deepest pain and sadness will find comfort and peace in the gift of this new born Savior.
 
Yes there are thieves among us, but Christ is in us. And that, to me, is the real story. God bless and Merry Christmas to us all!
 
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ArborlawnUMC.org

Our needs and the needs of others: finishing strong

 
In the excitement of opening our new facilities so much of our efforts and resources have been dedicated and focused towards meeting our own congregational needs. As the project was nearing completion, there were inevitable last minute expenses related to the physical needs of the building. We also devoted a number of resources in September toward our opening as we introduced ourselves to the community with a series of concerts, Open House and other special events. It was important and necessary to focus our efforts on those opening events. We took care of our needs. Now it’s time to care for the needs of others. Because so much focus has been on opening the building we’ve fallen behind in our commitment to fund ministries beyond the local church through our UMC connectional system and apportionment giving. To date we’ve paid $80,792.00 of our 2011 apportionments which total $265,274.00. Together we can reach our goal.
 
The apportionments represent a wide variety of ministries we support in partnership with other UMC congregations both locally and throughout the world. The 2011 apportionments include the World Benevolence Fund, Africa University, Missional support, as well as offering support within our own conference for the ministries of Glen Lake Camp, United Community Centers and the Lydia Patterson Institute in El Paso. Through our apportionments, we support 903 missionaries around the world, serving 57 countries. In more than 50 countries around the world, our missionary outreach provides meals for 3 million people every year or over 8,200 people every day. For more information about apportionments and our partnership in the connectional system you may go to www.gbgm-umc.org
 
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ArborlawnUMC.org

WestAid filling a tremendous need in far west Fort Worth; asks for continued prayers and help

 
By Peggy Grona
 
WestAid if very grateful for the generous donations of holiday food and money for turkey (or ham) for  families who come to us in need. Because you care, families are able to have a holiday meal with their loved ones.
 
We have seen an increase of families; many new  coming in since our relocation to 7940 Camp Bowie W.; sometimes as many as 50 families in a five-hour period. Together with our supporters, we can continue to fill this need. 
 
Some are experiencing a temporary setback, while others need continued assistance because of illness, unemployment or other family issues. With the numbers increasing, the need for food donations is greater than ever. Especially needed are canned meats, pasta and sauce, and cereal.
 
Also, more volunteers are needed in several positions. Volunteers work from 9:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. or from 12 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. If you have time to volunteer once a week or even monthly, please call WestAid at 817-737-9338 and find out what positions are needed.  
 
WestAid appreciates your support and asks for your prayers for this much needed mission.
 
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ArborlawnUMC.org

Kids learn a lot about God in FaithWalk rotation; your child is welcome

 
By Susan Pike
 
Arborlawn children in 1st through 5th Grades have been busy learning scripture in Sunday School. During the series of lessons entitled God’s Word, the children made lanterns from tin cans to remind them that “God’s Word is a lamp unto our feet and a light unto our path” (Psalm 119:105). Classes mixed and baked brownies with peanut butter treasures inside, a delicious reminder that God’s Word is a treasure in our hearts (Psalm 119:11). 
 
The children rotate to different rooms each week and complete a lesson or project that enhances their faith development. The scripture for the lesson series entitled God’s Love was 1 Peter 4:10: “Be generous with the gifts God has given you. Manage them wisely to help others.” The concept of giving was emphasized as the children assembled “birthday bags,” complete with candles and cake mix. These bags will be given to the children in our community who receive Snack Sacks. 
 
During our current series, God’s Gift, the children are acting out the story of Christmas and putting together symbolic edible treats to take home and share with their families. They are learning that God’s Gift of Jesus is the best Gift of all; a Gift that will last forever. “Thanks be to God for His indescribable Gift!” (2 Cor. 9:15). 
 
These are just a few of the activities that keep Arborlawn children coming to Sunday school. We hope to see you Sunday!
 

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ArborlawnUMC.org

The Wyeth String Quartet performing here January 22

 
The Concerts at Arborlawn Community Series presents The Wyeth String Quartet in concert on Sunday, Jan. 22, at 7 p.m. Formerly known as the Fort Worth Symphony String Quartet, the group is comprised of the Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra's principal string players. Since its inception in 2004, the Quartet has thrilled audiences of all ages with its virtuosic and energetic performances of classical and contemporary chamber music.
 

Today the quartet continues to build on its reputation with a growing schedule of concert and education performances and an ever-expanding repertoire of interesting and exciting music. Moreover, The Wyeth String Quartet strives to nurture the next generation of young musicians through their commitment to music education through concerts and private teaching studios. Members are on the faculties of Texas Christian University and The University of North Texas.  
   
Discover why The Wyeth String Quartet performances have been called "stellar," "breathtaking," and "how chamber music should always be played."
 
The Community Series concerts are co-sponsored by the presenting organizations. Tickets will be on sale at the door prior to the concert. We welcome The Wyeth String Quartet to Arborlawn in 2012!
 
Other upcoming events to mark on your calendar include Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Miguel Harth-Bedoya, on Thursday, Feb. 16, at 7 p.m. Tickets for this concert are available by calling 817-665-6500 or at FWSymphony.com. Also, Brazos Brass Quintet performs on Sunday, Feb. 26, at 7 p.m. Featuring Oscar Garcia-Montoya and Jeremy Garnett, Trumpets; David Cooper, Horn; Kyle Mullins, Trombone; and Clay Garrett, Tuba.
 
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ArborlawnUMC.org

We still need Christmas Eve greeters

 
It's still not too late if you want to help us greet visitors during the Christmas Eve candlelight worship services. In fact, it's a great time to help us demonstrate how special Arborlawn is to out-of-town relatives of parishioners we expect and look forward to seeing each year.
 
We need greeters for the 5 p.m., 7 p.m., and especially 11 p.m. services. Please contact Kelly Keller or Carol Proctor if you want to help.
 
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ArborlawnUMC.org

Arborlawn's new Prayer Room opens next month

 
By Jan Crowell
 
Have you ever wished for a quiet place where you could go and pour your heart out to God? Have you ever longed to come before the Lord to talk to Him about the great needs on your heart for your country, your church, your friends, or your family?
 
In January, Arborlawn's Prayer Room - "The Vineyard of Prayer" - will become available to each and every member of the church. Several people are working on it now to make it ready.
 
Please pray over the holidays and ask God to lead you as to what your involvement will be. For example, you might say prayers of personal intercession. Or you might pray at one or more of the stations in the Prayer Room.
 
The stations and the person responsible for each are: Arborlawn Ministries, Bonny Jenista; Community, Charlene Johnston; Intercessors (praying for requests submitted by the congregation via prayer cards and the new prayer boxes), Kathy Wilcox; Pastors and Staff, Jan Crowell; State and Nation, Doris Lake; and World, Jan Crowell.
 
If you have questions or suggestions, please contact one of the Prayer room station leaders listed above or the Prayer Room Captain, Jan Crowell.
 
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ArborlawnUMC.org

Mission in a Moment on January 8

 
Make an entire mission project in one hour on one Sunday morning. Come to Room 160, Main Building (the Bride’s Room) between 9:45 and 10:45 a.m. on Jan. 8.
 

The Blessings in Stitches group will assist you in making small, fringed blankets to be used by people taking medical treatments. Bring sharp scissors if you have them. No sewing is involved. For information, contact Martha Darwin or Jenny Rogers.
 
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ArborlawnUMC.org

Affect coming January 22

 
Can you discern the emotion a person is experiencing by observing the person closely? Can you look at the person and tell the difference between whether a person is feeling shame or guilt? Learn the behaviors associated with shame.
 
The Stephen Ministers are sponsoring a Continuing Education seminar on this subject called “Affect” on Sunday, Jan. 22 from 4-5 p.m. in Room 225, Main Building. Bryan Bellamy is the facilitator of the one-session seminar. All are welcome to attend.
 
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ArborlawnUMC.org

Bishop Lowry leading 11 p.m. Christmas Eve service

 
We hope you will make plans to be with us for Christmas Eve Candlelight Worship, either at 5 p.m, 7 p.m., or 11 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 24. The 11 p.m. service will be led by Bishop Mike Lowry.
 

On Christmas Day, we’re holding a single Sunday morning worship service at 10 a.m. in the Sanctuary. We’re also having just one service at 10 a.m. the next Sunday on New Year’s Day, Jan. 1.
 
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ArborlawnUMC.org