The Vine - News Blog

Cantabile hosting Oct. 3 viewing party of summer concert at National Cathedral

 
Cantabile (Arborlawn's Youth Choir) invites everyone to a special viewing of its 2012 YouthCUE concert, taped when the group was in Washington, D.C. over the summer. The ensemble performed with various other student choirs from across the country in the National Cathedral.
 

Join them Wednesday, Oct. 3 at 6:30 p.m. in the Theater (Room 140 on the Sanctuary Level in the Children's area) for a viewing party. Please RSVP to Jennifer Portele.
 
These students represented Arborlawn well on the national stage; please come show them how much you appreciate them.
 
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ArborlawnUMC.org

Organ concerts on Sept. 30 and Oct. 1 part of dedication series

 
Concerts at Arborlawn is celebrating The Year of the Organ Dedication Series with some special upcoming events.
 
Jerry Westenkuehler joins with the Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra for “A Night of Celebration” this Sunday, Sept. 30 at 7 p.m. in the Guilmant Symphonie for Organ No. 1, Opus 42 and Poulenc’s Concerto for Organ in G minor. The next night, Monday, Oct. 1 at 7 p.m., return to hear “The Dedication Recital” with Cleveland Organist Todd Wilson. Wilson is head of the Organ Department at The Cleveland Institute of Music and Curator of the E.M. Skinner pipe organ at Severance Hall in Cleveland.
 

Both concerts are free but require tickets, which are available at MusicatArborlawn.com.
 
Listen to the radio spot:

Festival_of_Dedication

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ArborlawnUMC.org

A Word from the Pastor: Value and worth

 
By Bryan Bellamy
 
Her name is Whitney Kropp. She's a sophomore at a small town high school who was surprised to learn that she had been chosen by her classmates to be part of the homecoming court... as a joke. For weeks, she has walked down the halls of her school as students pointed and laughed. Kropp said, “I felt like I wasn’t worthy. Why even be a part of this community - this world - if I’m just going to be tossed around like basically a piece of trash?”
 

It is a story that resonates with many of our own experiences during our teenage years - the cruelty and harshness that all of us are capable of causing during adolescence and adulthood as well. Kropp's story  takes it to new levels.
 
If the story simply ended there it would be a powerful example of the pandemic of bullying that has existed in the educational system since the beginning of time but has moved to the forefront of the media.
 
But the story does not end there. Kropp has decided to go to homecoming, to stand in front of all those who tried to humiliate her, with the support of her local community and now the nation. I am impressed by her bravery - to stand in front of the same people who tried to humiliate her, to face the very people who tried to oppress her is an incredible testament to her strength and resilience.
 
But I am most moved by the community who has rallied around Kropp, buying her dress, paying for her dinner, doing her hair and make up - and the Facebook community who has embraced her as well, writing multiple uplifting messages of support - all to ensure she has not only a night she will remember but also will know that she has value and worth far beyond any of our understanding.
 
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ArborlawnUMC.org

Bring the mission field home with 10-Fold during October

 
The General Board of Global Ministry’s 10-Fold campaign is about to ramp up in October. 10-Fold is an interactive global gathering that features United Methodist projects around the world supported by Global Ministries and UMCOR.  Just as all of Global Ministries does, 10-Fold puts faith into action, living out the commitment of The United Methodist Church to congregational development, leadership development, global health, and ministry with the poor.
 

The 10-Fold concept began two years ago with the goal of bringing the mission field of The United Methodist Church home to churches. The projects highlighted this year include: Imagine No Malaria, Missionaries in the United States, Missionaries Around the World, Church Planting Worldwide, YAYA (Youth and Young Adults), Developing Community Leaders, With* Kamina, U. S. Disaster Response, With* the Philippines, and International Disaster Response.
 
When you visit the site and click on the Projects link, you can watch a short video about each designated ministry and click the "Be Counted" button. For each click, ministry sponsors will donate $1 to the week’s project.
 
Please consider getting behind 10-Fold this year as we join with The United Methodist Church in making disciples of Jesus Christ, both at home and around the world.
 
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ArborlawnUMC.org

LocalFest October 27; sign up today to exhibit in the Craft Fair

 
We hope you'll join us for a fun day on Saturday, Oct. 27 as we host the Family 1st event LocalFest from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. LocalFest is an event where the entire family can enjoy a craft fair, Pumpkin Patch games and fun for the kids, Food Trucks from Fort Worth's Food Truck Park around lunch time, and the music of some talented local bands.
 

Do you do crafts? Or do you know someone who is into crafts? We are looking for vendors to exhibit in the Craft Fair. Vendors can register here, and we encourage you or your friends to do so today. Booth space is available on a first-come, first-served basis.
 
Proceeds go toward Arborlawn Summer Student Mission Trips. We hope you'll be a part of this exciting Family 1st event at Arborlawn on Oct. 27.
 
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ArborlawnUMC.org

UMW general meeting October 2

 
The next United Methodist Women meeting is Tuesday, Oct. 2. The Executive Board meets at 9 a.m. in Room 220. The General Meeting follows at 10 a.m. in the Worship Center.
 

Jennifer Bellamy will speak about Family Pathfinders, a mentoring program. A barbecue lunch ($6)  follows in the Gathering Area, hosted by members of Jerri Savuto Circle. The mission focus in October is More Than a Bandage, which was suggested by our mission partner Muriel Henderson. A love offering will be taken for this mission.
 
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ArborlawnUMC.org

MOMS Group on October 2: planning and mission focus

 
Join MOMS Group (Mothers Offering Mutual Support) for our next gathering on Tuesday, Oct. 2 from 6-8 p.m. in Room 224 for a planning meeting. We will also be collecting items for the Warm Place. For information about this mission collection, please contact Melissa Hedger.
 

Feel free to bring friends from outside Arborlawn who are looking for support and friendship from fellow moms. You are invited to bring a snack to share if you'd like to. Child care is available by contacting Nell Cantwell (817-731-0701).
 
We look forward to seeing you!
 
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ArborlawnUMC.org

Beginning genealogy class Thursday evenings in Worship Center

 
Kay Brown is leading a Beginning Genealogy class on Thursday evenings from 6:30-8 p.m. in the Worship Center.
 
This class is a great way to get started researching your family history and begins by looking at parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins. The approach employees various resources, including census records; tax, deed, probate, and vital records; military records; and libraries, archives, and Internet sites. Participants receive handouts detailing search techniques.
 
Some helpful items, if you want to bring them, include: a laptop, a smart phone, and an electronic tablet (iPad, etc.). You might just get hooked on genealogy. For more details, contact Kay Brown.
 
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ArborlawnUMC.org

Connecting Class: "Sacraments" October 7

 
The Connecting Class “Sacraments of the United Methodist Church" is Sunday, Oct. 7 during the Sunday School hour. This class is scheduled for the Gathering Area outside of the Family Life Center (former Sanctuary). In this class, participants learn about the two sacraments of the United Methodist Church (baptism and communion) and the procedures for participating in them. World Communion Sunday is Oct. 7. This class encourages people to enter into the sacraments expecting something to happen in the experience and the process.
 
For more details, contact Judy Williamson (817-731-0701).
 
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ArborlawnUMC.org

Divorce Recovery group: Oct. 8 through Nov. 12; register online by Oct. 4

 
Arborlawn’s Divorce Recovery group is slated for Mondays, 7-8:30 p.m., Oct. 8 through Nov. 12. Register online.
 
Separation and divorce can be a painful and stressful experience. It’s a confusing time when you feel isolated and have lots of questions about issues you’ve never faced before.
 
Divorce Recovery is a support group for adults in the process of separation and/or divorce. Over the course of six weeks, we will meet and explore aspects of the divorce experience in a supportive and spiritual environment that will help guide you through the healing process. Questions? Contact Bryan Bellamy.
 
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ArborlawnUMC.org

Nativity Pageant 2012 rehearsals start this Sunday, Sept. 30

 
The annual Nativity Pageant will be here before we know it (Dec. 1 and 2), and practices begin this Sunday. You can see the entire rehearsal schedule at ArborlawnUMC.org/nativity.
 
Sunday, Sept. 30, SAM Building: 2 p.m., Kings Entourage; 3 p.m., Shepherds; 4 p.m., Angels
 
Sunday, Oct. 7, SAM Building: 2 p.m., Narrators and Innkeepers; 3 p.m., Angels.
 
Nativity Pageant questions? Contact Buzz Buswell or Julie Jacobs.
 
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ArborlawnUMC.org

Your generosity with school clothes blesses Poly Center kids

 
By Joanne Bittiker
 
The robust response we had in donations for uniforms and school supplies for Poly Center students was overwhelming. The Poly Center director, Frances Martinez, asked if we could provide school supplies, backpacks, and two uniform shirts each for 18 middle school students from Poly who attend William James Middle School. We were able to do this because of your generous donations! We had enough money to give one new shirt to each student of the families we serve through the Poly Center clothes closet. The parents and students were so grateful to begin school on equal footing with the other students at their schools. You have truly blessed these families.
 
Your gently worn clothing continues to come into the church from your abundant closets. Thank you so much. If you call us, we can meet you at the church on Sunday or come to your house to pick up donations. If you want to bring your bags of clothes to the church during the week, the bins are still waiting for your clothes in Room 230 (the room adjacent to the kitchen).
 
A new opportunity for service has just opened at the Poly Center. Frances Martinez needs a receptionist at the front desk to welcome new people and point them to the Food Pantry and Clothes Closet. The need is for Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays when Arborlawn volunteers work in the Clothes Closet. This is a wonderful opportunity for those of you who have had to drop out of serving in the Clothes Closet because of health reasons. If you can do this, please contact Joanne Bittiker or Madelyn Dean.
 
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ArborlawnUMC.org

Merrymakers: Dallas Arboretum Oct. 17; potluck Oct. 24

 
Merrymakers (Arborlawn's Seniors Group) is going to Dallas Arboretum on Wednesday, Oct. 17, leaving at 9 a.m. from the church parking lot. The cost is $25 for the bus and ticket to the gardens. The Dallas Arboretum has a tram service on a first-come, first-served basis. Trams seat four passengers each. Lunch is at Casa Linda Cafeteria afterward. For more information, contact Janet Roberson.
 
The next monthly potluck gathering is Wednesday, Oct. 24 at Noon in the SAM Building. Come join in the fun and stay afterward for games if you want to. For more details, contact Marilyn Anderson.
 
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ArborlawnUMC.org

Dementia 101 seminar Sept. 24

 
Our culture faces many dilemmas in and around dementia. If you are affected, you can learn a lot about the latest developments on Monday, Sept. 24 as we present "Dementia 101" at 7 p.m. in the Worship Center.
 

Bill Crawford, Jr. (Comfort Keepers) will discuss the basics of dementia and how to care for parents that may want to stay in their homes. Becky Kubiak (A Place for Mom) will talk about housing options should it be time to consider moving a loved one. Finally, Dr. Sid O’Bryant (Associate Professor, Division of Geriatrics, University of North Texas Health Science Center) will discuss research on what’s being done to find a cure for Dementia/Alzheimer’s Disease.
 
This event is free. For more details, contact Bryan Bellamy (817-731-0701).
 
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ArborlawnUMC.org

Faith Community Nurse Ministry: 2012 Survey

 
Look in your worship guides this Sunday, Sept. 23 for a special insert from Arborlawn's Faith Community Nurse (FCN) Ministry. The group is conducting its 2012 Survey. This survey is similar to the one FCN did a couple of years ago. Please complete and submit the questionnaire. Your feedback gives FCN perspective in serving the congregation with health and wellness initiatives.
 
Also, look for the FCN nurses to resume blood pressure screenings on Sunday, Oct. 14 in the entrance area of the Family Life Center.
 
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ArborlawnUMC.org

Six-week Pastors’ Bible Study begins Sept. 19: "Elusive Jesus"

 
Our annual autumn Pastors' Bible Study (this year "Elusive Jesus: Unbound by Expectations") starts on Wednesday evening, Sept. 19 or Thursday morning, Sept. 20 and runs for six weeks. Rev. DeAndrea Dare leads the Wednesday night session from 6-7 p.m. in the Worship Center. Another session is led by Rev. Ben Disney on Thursday mornings from 10-11 a.m., also in the Worship Center.
 

Throughout the Bible people placed great expections on Jesus. They needed him to be the healer, the teacher, the Savior that they had long expected. Jesus was and is all of these things but has never been bound by the desires of those who follow him. We, too, place expectations on Christ. Join us as we look deeply at the Scriptures and find the many ways people encountered Jesus in ways that caught them off guard and surprised them. We may find that we are as amazed as the Disciples were when we recognize how frequently we encounter the elusive Jesus of whom we follow.
 
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ArborlawnUMC.org

A Word from the Pastor: Why do people need the church?

 
By DeAndrea Dare
 
It is a question people on the outside looking into churches ask all of the time. Why should I be a part of a church? What is a church all about? What can a church offer to me that another group cannot? These questions are asked aloud and they are asked internally in those moments where we do not realize anyone else is paying attention to our words, our actions, or our apathy. 

To be honest, the church as a whole does not have the best reputation in our culture today. Words such as irrelevant, out of touch, hypocritical, and closed minded are tossed about in conversations daily. People no longer come to church because it is just what you do. Sunday is no longer looked upon as a sacred day set aside for worship and Sabbath. There are sporting events, work related activities, yards that need to be mowed, etc. Plus, with streaming video, podcasts, television broadcasts, and other uses of multimedia, people can hear a sermon or view a worship service without ever stepping foot into a church building. 
 
So the question still lingers, why do people need the church? Why do you get out of bed and come here on Sunday mornings? What is it you are seeking that you feel the church can help you discover? What does the church offer to the world that really matters? 
 
These are all questions we as individuals must answer. The answers may be similar. But in reality they are probably all quite different, because we are all different. We all have our own story that offers to us a lens from which we view the world and view the church. We are all searchers and seekers on the journey. And yet one thing we all have in common is the one we have chosen to follow. If we do not share our story, and we do not offer Christ to the world through our words, actions, and the way we live, then how will others come to know the story and be able to answer the question?
 
So, why do you need the church?
 
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ArborlawnUMC.org

Prayer Encounter DVDs, shirts available

 
Arborlawn's Prayer Ministry hosted a successful seminar last weekend with the day-long presentation by author and speaker Dr. Terry Tekyl. The Prayer Encounter Seminar was outstanding, with more than 150 attendees going away inspired, entertained, and, most importantly, equipped to grow in their daily prayer lives.
 
If you missed this or were unable to come, we have good news. You can order a DVD of the seminar. The DVD cost is $10, with proceeds defraying seminar expenses. All orders must be received and prepaid by Monday, Sept. 24. Look for the salmon-colored (light orange) order form at the east Welcome Kiosk on Sunday or in the church office. Please allow 4-5 weeks for delivery. Note: By agreement with Terry Teykl’s ministry, the DVD is for personal use only. Please do not use it for marketing purposes or public viewing.
 
Also, if you attended the Prayer Encounter Seminar last Saturday, you saw the Prayer Ministry team and Arborlawn staff wearing black "Got Prayer?" T-shirts. Many of you loved the shirts and asked about purchasing them, so the Prayer Ministry decided to make them available to the congregation.
 
The front of the shirt says “Got Prayer?” in white letters. The back, also in white letters, has the Arborlawn Prayer Ministry web page and quotes 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18: "Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus."
 
We're placing an order for those who want one of these shirts. The shirt costs $10 and must be prepaid by Monday, Sept. 24. To order a shirt and for more details, contact Bonny Jenista.
 
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ArborlawnUMC.org

Three upcoming concerts feature Arborlawn's organ

 
Concerts at Arborlawn is celebrating The Year of the Organ Dedication Series with three special upcoming events.
 
Children (and adults!) are welcome to enjoy "The King of Instruments: A Children's Concert" on Saturday, Sept. 22 at 10 a.m. in the Sanctuary. Jerry Westenkuehler will be playing favorite children's songs, a John Williams movie medley, and The Sounds of the Organ. This concert is free of charge.
 

Westenkuehler then joins the Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra for "A Night of Celebration" on Sunday, Sept. 30 at 7 p.m. in the Guilmant Symphonie for Organ No. 1, Opus 42 and Poulenc's Concerto for Organ in G minor.
 
The next night, Monday, Oct. 1 at 7 p.m., return to hear "The Dedication Recital" with Cleveland Organist Todd Wilson. Wilson is head of the Organ Department at The Cleveland Institute of Music and Curator of the E.M. Skinner pipe organ at Severance Hall in Cleveland. 
 
Both "A Night of Celebration" and "The Dedication Recital" are open to the public without admission fee. Tickets for both events will be distributed beginning Sunday, Sept. 9 on a first-come, first-served basis.
 
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ArborlawnUMC.org

Singles Group TNT event at La Playa Maya on Sept. 25

 
Tuesday Night Together (TNT): On the 4th Tuesday of each month at 6:30 p.m. we share great food and conversation, exploring our favorite restaurants. On Tuesday, Sept. 25 we're going to La Playa Maya (Village at Camp Bowie, 6209 Sunset Drive, Fort Worth, 76116, 817-738-3329).
 
Arborlawn's Singles Group events are for all ages and stages of singles. To get the latest details, email us. Let us know you will be coming, we'll save you a seat!
 
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ArborlawnUMC.org