The Vine - News Blog

Place to Belong: “Year of Biblical Womanhood” Study Feb. 26 - May 21

Place to Belong (Arborlawn’s study and fellowship group for women who worship alone) is studying Rachel Held Evans’ “Year of Biblical Womanhood” February 26 through May 21. The group meets Thursdays at 7:00 p.m. in Room 214. For more details on Place to Belong, contact Bette West.
 

Strong-willed and independent, Rachel Held Evans couldn’t sew a button on a blouse before she embarked on a radical life experiment – a year of biblical womanhood. Intrigued by the traditionalist resurgence that led many of her friends to abandon their careers to assume traditional gender roles in the home, Evans decides to try it for herself, vowing to take all of the Bible’s instructions for women as literally as possible for a year.
 
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Place to Belong Studying “A Disciple's Path”

 
The Place to Belong group (for women who worship alone) is studying the James Harnish book “A Disciple’s Path” – an engaging approach to discipleship from a distinctly Wesleyan perspective.
 

The study guides individuals to take the next step in discipleship and become dynamic, engaged followers of Jesus Christ. Place to Belong meets Thursdays at 7:00 p.m. in Room 214. Questions? Contact Bette West.
 
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Place to Belong Group Studying "Namesake" by Jessica LaGrone

 
The Place to Belong group is studying “Namesake” by Jessica LaGrone Thursday nights at 7:00 p.m. in Room 212. (Please note the change in room number from previous studies.) Place to Belong is a women’s Bible study and fellowship group for those experiencing the faith journey alone. For more details, contact Bette West.
 

The “Namesake” study explores the transformational power of God through the stories of biblical characters who met God and whose lives and names were changed forever. As you meet Abraham and Sarah, Jacob, Naomi, Daniel, Peter, and the unnamed woman, you will discover that God wants to be just as intimately involved in your story, offering an identity that shines with the purpose for which you were created.
 
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ArborlawnUMC.org

Place to Belong: “Namesake” Study Starts Thursday, October 23

 
The Place to Belong group begins a new study Thursday, October 23. Place to Belong is a women’s Bible study and fellowship group for those experiencing the faith journey alone. The study meets Thursday nights at 7:00 p.m. in Room 212. (Please note the change in room number from previous studies.) For more details, contact Bette West.
 
The study “Namesake” - based on the book by Jessica LaGrone - explores the transformational power of God through the stories of biblical characters who met God and whose lives and names were changed forever. As you meet Abraham and Sarah, Jacob, Naomi, Daniel, Peter, and the unnamed woman, you will discover that God wants to be just as intimately involved in your story, offering an identity that shines with the purpose for which you were created.
 
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ArborlawnUMC.org

Place to Belong Study: “When Women Walk Alone” Starts September 4

 
The Place to Belong begins a new study on September 4. Place to Belong is a women’s Bible study and fellowship group for those experiencing the faith journey alone. The group meets Thursdays from 7:00-9:00 p.m. in Room 231 (The Parlor).
 

The study September 4 through October 16 is “When Women Walk Alone” by Cindi McMenamin. Wouldn’t it be nice to never feel alone again? Turn your alone times into life-changing encounters with God. The book is approximately $10 through Cokesbury.com or at local bookstores. For more details contact Bette West.
 
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ArborlawnUMC.org

Place to Belong: “Making Sense” Study

 
The Place to Belong group is studying Adam Hamilton’s latest book, “Making Sense of the Bible,” on Thursdays at 7:00 p.m. in Room 220. Place to Belong is a women’s Bible study and fellowship group for those experiencing the faith journey alone.
 
This study helps to clarify some of the often confusing themes of the Bible. Hamilton, one of the nation’s leading pastors and Christian authors, speaks to the hot-button issues that are debated culturally and spiritually within the church.
 
We will be near the end of the study when Hamilton is a guest speaker at Arborlawn on Wednesday, May 21.
 
All women who are worshiping alone are invited to attend the study. Books may be purchased online or through area bookstores. Contact Bette West for further information.
 
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ArborlawnUMC.org

Place to Belong: “Making Sense” Study Starts April 24

 
The Place to Belong group begins studying Adam Hamilton’s latest book, “Making Sense of the Bible,” on Thursday, April 24, at 7:00 p.m. in Room 220. Place to Belong is a women’s Bible study and fellowship group for those experiencing the faith journey alone.
 
This 6-week study helps to clarify some of the often confusing themes of the Bible. Hamilton, one of the nation’s leading pastors and Christian authors, speaks to the hot-button issues that are debated culturally and spiritually within the church.
 
We will be near the end of the study when Hamilton is a guest speaker at Arborlawn on Wednesday, May 21.
 
All women who are worshiping alone are invited to attend the study. Books may be purchased online or through area bookstores. Contact Bette West for further information.
 
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ArborlawnUMC.org

Place to Belong Studying “The Way” by Adam Hamilton in March

 
Place to Belong is a women’s study and fellowship group for those experiencing worship alone. The group meets Thursday nights at the church at 7:00 p.m. The group is studying Adam Hamilton's book “The Way” during the month of March. The study covers the life of Jesus from his birth until his resurrection and gives participants an opportunity to “walk in the footsteps of Jesus.” The study includes a DVD filmed in the Holy Land and narrated by the author. For more details about Place to Belong in general or this study in particular, contact Bette West.
 
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ArborlawnUMC.org

Place to Belong: "Forgiveness" Study Thursdays in February

 
Place to Belong is a women’s study and fellowship group for those experiencing worship alone. The group meets Thursday nights at the church at 7:00 p.m. During the month of February, the group will be studying the book “Forgiveness: Finding Peace Through Letting Go” by Adam Hamilton. There is nothing more crippling than holding on to anger. Anger, more than any other emotion, has the power to consume all aspects of our lives, distort our sense of purpose, and destroy our relationship with God. In this study, learn about the invaluable spiritual asset called forgiveness. For more details, contact Bette West.
 
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ArborlawnUMC.org

Place to Belong: Winter and Spring 2014 Studies on Thursday Nights

 
Place to Belong has some exciting studies coming up this winter and spring. Place to Belong is a women's study and fellowship group for those experiencing worship alone. The group meets on Thursday nights at 7:00 p.m. in Room 220 with occasional meetings elsewhere. For more details about Place to Belong, contact Bette West.
 
For the remainder of January, the group is completing the study started late last year entitled "The Organic God" by Margaret Feinberg. The study offers personal stories that guide the reader to an authentic and naturally spiritual relationship with God.
 
Starting February 6 and continuing through February 27, Place to Belong will be studying Adam Hamilton's book "Forgiveness: Finding Peace Through Letting Go." Learn about the invaluable spiritual asset called forgiveness.
 
Another Adam Hamilton book is planned for March 6 through April 10. The group will study "The Way: Walking in the Footsteps of Jesus," which focuses on the life and teachings of Jesus.
 
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ArborlawnUMC.org

Place to Belong studying Embraced by God starting September 5

 
Place to Belong is a women’s study and fellowship group for those experiencing worship alone. The group meets on Thursday nights at 7:00 p.m. in Room 222. Beginning September 5, Place to Belong will be studying the Babbie Mason book Embraced by God. This 8-week study is designed  to help you discover God’s deep, sweet love for you. Following a format of personal experience, Biblical truth, and personal application, you are given the opportunity to understand that you are God’s favorite daughter and can live an abundant life through these seven promises. Questions? Contact Bette Smith.
 
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ArborlawnUMC.org

Place to Belong study: Israel and the Church: God’s Road Map

 
The Place to Belong women's Bible study group begins a new study on Thursday, Mar. 21 (7-9 p.m.) based on the book "Israel and the Church: God's Road Map." This anthology edited by Rebecca Brimmer covers topics such as the feasts, Aliyah (immigration to Israel), Israel in prophecy, anti-Semitism, Jerusalem, and replacement theology. The study meets in Room 231. For more details contact Bette Smith.
 
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ArborlawnUMC.org

"Bad Girls…" study starts Oct. 18 in Place to Belong

 
Place to Belong (the women's study and fellowship group for those experiencing worship alone) is starting a new study on Thursday, Oct. 18 at 7 p.m. in Room 231. The group will be looking into Liz Curtis Higgins' book "Bad Girls of the Bible." See how God used Biblical women who made bad choices in their daily lives. Experience important insights and lessons for today. The book may be purchased at Cokesbury or online. Purchase of the workbook will be determined at a later date. Questions? Contact Bette Smith.
 
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ArborlawnUMC.org

Place to Belong starting New Testament study

 
By Bette Smith
 
Ladies, are you single or attending church alone and need a Place to Belong? Please join our group on Thursday evenings beginning Sept. 6 at 7 p.m. in Room 222.
 
We will be reading from a short-term Disciple Bible study called "An Invitation to the New Testament" by David DaSilva and Emerson B. Powery. We will be studying how early Christian communities struggled with the implications of the story of Jesus for their lives and their faith. The book may be purchased at Cokesbury or online.
 
Your individual participant guide has brief home study questions, and our group time includes a supplemental DVD of Biblical and archeological scholars who help to enhance our understanding of the New Testament. This eight-week session promises to be an enriching experience as well as an opportunity to make new friends and attend activities together.
 
This summer we enjoyed an enlightening book talk, decorating for the Styles & Smiles Fashion Show, and a home dessert party featuring a special video. Our friendships have grown so much over the past two years that our lives are now filled with large and small group gatherings, movies, dinners, concerts, and travel. We are excited about making more new friends and learning more about how God has blessed us.
 
Child care is provided by contacting Nell Cantwell (817-731-0701). For more details about Place to Belong, please contact Bette Smith.
 
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ArborlawnUMC.org

Place to Belong starts new study on April 19: “Invitation to the Old Testament”

 
By Bette Smith
 
Place to Belong, a Bible study for single women or any woman worshiping alone, is beginning a new session on Thursday, Apr. 19 at 7 p.m. in Room 231 (Parlor). The book is “Invitation to the Old Testament” by Celia Brewer Sinclair and James D. Tabor.
 
While we have spent almost two months reading through the Old Testament in the church-wide Bible in 90 Days study, this will give us a much closer examination of the main historical events and voices that are spoken in the Old Testament and “highlight the relationships between Israel and other Ancient Near Eastern societies as found in extra-biblical literature and law codes, in art and artifacts, in archeological findings and excavations.” The discussion time will be supplemented by an excellent DVD series. Books may be purchased at Cokesbury for $11.50 or ordered online new or used.
 
Here’s what members of the group are saying about Place to Belong:
 
Pat: Place to Belong is so aptly named! I’ve not felt out of place coming to church by myself since I joined this great group of friends.
 
Bette: Our group has begun to join up with others in the Singles Ministry in sitting together during services or events and going out to lunch on Sundays. Last week we took an impromptu visit to the Kimbell Art Museum for lunch and a tour of the current Impressionists exhibit. On Thursday, Apr. 12, we will be meeting for dinner at Abuelo’s restaurant (at Hulen Mall) at 6:30 p.m. Those interested in the new session are welcome to attend and get to know other members. We also occasionally attend movies or cultural events in the city. I have never had to pass up an opportunity because I didn’t want to go alone. Someone in the group always wants to join in the fun.
 
Linda: Place to Belong has been a Godsend. It has been a wonderful opportunity for growth, support, and sharing with other women who love the Lord.
 
Bette: We generally study four or five texts throughout the year. Group members give input as to what they would like to learn. Topics are varied and include texts covering both the Old and New Testaments. Whenever possible, guest speakers are invited to join us. Our ministers joined us this past fall in a study on Methodism.
 
Ellen: What a wonderful group! We laugh, we cry, we share, and we learn about God and his purpose in our lives! I have been in PTB about two months. From the start, I was comfortable and had a new group of friends.
 
Bette: Support for one another spiritually, emotionally, and socially are extremely important among group members. I feel like I have so many close friends that I can call on for anything. I’ve only been in Fort Worth a few years but feel like I’ve lived here for years. ¬†
 
All ages are involved in Place to Belong. Childcare is available by calling the church office 24 hours in advance. Contact Bette Smith to enroll for the next session or ask questions about upcoming events.
 
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ArborlawnUMC.org

Place to Belong currently in DVD study; attending FWSO concert on Feb. 16

 
By Bette Smith
 
The single women's Place to Belong Bible Study will continue with DVD-based studies through April 12. Every presenter has been a captivating speaker discussing topics that are relevant to our lives. Come join us on Thursday evenings at 7 p.m. to learn more about ourselves and study the word of God through well known teachers such as Beth Moore, Priscilla Shirer, and Angela Thomas. 
 
We enjoy surprise goodies, coffee, and specialty teas each week as well as occasional movies, dinner out, and concerts. For example, on Feb. 16 the group will take a break from class to attend the FWSO's All-Bach concert at Arborlawn. With so many social offerings in our city and at Arborlawn, it's comforting to know a single woman has the opportunity to attend these events with friends from Place to Belong. If you are single or worshiping alone, don't miss out on these special times.
 
There is no book or homework for our current series. However, we have a $5-$8 fee when a new DVD is purchased. Should a session be missed, you may check the DVD out from the church video library when the study is completed. 
 
Contact Bette Smith for the off-site location or additional details.
 
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ArborlawnUMC.org

Place to Belong group meeting off-site for current DVD-based study

 
By Bette Smith
 
Place to Belong, a Bible study group that includes women who are single or may be worshiping alone, is currently meeting off-campus on Thursday evenings at 7 p.m. Our current DVD-based study includes relevant topics by well-known presenters such as Beth Moore, Anne Graham Lotz, Kay Arthur, and Priscilla Shirer. Social gatherings, such as concerts or dining out, are integrated into the 8-week study.
 
Come join us to study God's Word through these inspiring leaders and get to know other women who have common interests and needs. Contact Bette Smith for more details.
 
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ArborlawnUMC.org

Place to Belong begins Dunnam study Oct. 13

Place to Belong, a Bible study for single women or women worshipping alone, begins a new study on Thursday, Oct. 13 at 7 p.m. in Room 222. The group will be studying Going on to Salvation - A Study of Wesleyan Beliefs (Revised Edition) by Maxie Dunnam. This is a 10-week guide "for the Christian pilgrimage of 'faith working through love,' as envisioned by John Wesley and practiced by the people called Methodist."
 


This is an excellent opportunity to learn more about the biblical and Wesleyan doctrine of salvation. The study will be enriched by supplemental online sermons by John Wesley. In addition, Ben Disney, Beth Evers, Bryan Bellamy, and Judy Williamson will join us for some of the sessions to expound upon the United Methodist theology we'll be discussing.
 
Books may be purchased at Cokesbury or online for approximately $9. The study will culminate on Dec. 22 with a Christmas celebration. Contact Bette Smith for more details or to sign up. You may also register by visiting ArborlawnUMC.org/dunnam. Child care is available by contacting Nell Cantwell (or 817-731-0701).
 
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ArborlawnUMC.org