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A Monthly Publication of
Lowman United Methodist Church
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From the desk of Rev. Ever V. Mudambanuki: | |
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THEME: HONORING FATHERS
Key Verse: "As a father has compassion for his children, so the Lord has compassion on those who fear him." (Psalm 103:13)
This year is moving so fast as we wait to celebrate Father’s Day. Wow! We are already six months into the year. We highly esteem and celebrate our fathers by honoring them. Indeed, it is a day of mixed emotions for those who may not have fathers in their lives.
According to family structures and relationship statistics, two out of three (66%) adolescents aged 12-17 live with both parents, 24% with their mother only, 5% with their father only, and 5% with neither parent. Hence, other children have a tough time connecting with their fathers because of broken relationships. Others do not even know their fathers, or their fathers abandoned them. For others, their fathers have been promoted to glory. Yet, this is the time of celebrating whatever our father’s story is. Father’s Day is a precious time to cherish and appreciate our fathers.
The good news is that we all have our Heavenly Father. He is a Father to the fatherless. A Father to the disappointed and forsaken. A Father filled with compassion for those who fear him. A Father to all earthly fathers. Therefore, we give honor and praise to the Lord God, Our Father.
Why do we celebrate Father’s Day? It is a mandate with a divine promise. In giving Moses the Ten Commandments, God ordained fathers in their earthly assignment. I always say God stepped into the family system putting order, honor, and blessings upon children. The fifth commandment reads as follows: “Honor your father and your mother, so that your days may be long in the land that the Lord your God is giving you.” (Exodus 20:12)
Honor denotes deep value, respect, and importance. Fathers deserve their due for the things they do in raising their children. Psychologically, when children honor their parents, there is bonding, love, and responsibility that goes along. Fathers deserve such recognition because they are the providers, teachers, and role models to their children. In most cases, fatherhood allows them to impart blessings upon their kids. Interestingly, fatherhood is passed down from generation to generation. The good thing is that in passing on this assignment, it expands God’s Kingdom. We are reminded of Father Abraham in Genesis. He was blessed with one son, Isaac, who fathered the twins. It was through the twins that the twelve tribes of Israel were birthed. How awesome it was that God fulfilled His promises and expanded Abraham’s descendants. “Look toward heaven and count the stars, if you are able to count them.” (Genesis 15:5)
Our fathers too have been blessed by God in so many ways. Therefore, they deserve to be respected in their earthly roles and capacities. May God increase his anointing upon fathers as they fulfill their God given assignment on earth. Happy Father’s Day!.
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Reflections On Confirmation- Lowman UMC Class of 2024
It has been a historic moment to witness and welcome nine confirmed members of Lowman United Methodist Church. It started with a small group discussion grasping the meaning of confirmation in the Wesley North room. The parents, mentors, and grandparents greeted with enthusiasm the unknown journey ahead. Through God’s grace, unity, understanding, and love in one another we pulled through.
The confirmation class shared some powerful reflections to cherish. Rodrigo Schultes’ mentor, Kevin Garner, applauded him for his insightfulness, intelligence, wisdom, and genuine passion of loving Jesus Christ. Rodrigo thought confirmation class was a Bible study class. “I feel my relationship with Jesus has grown.”
Cameron Brogren’s soft-speaking voice meant a lot to the confirmation group. She thought the crucifixion station was very moving and cool to see at the Cloisters of the Platte at Gretna, NE. Her mentor, Nancy Garner, believed that her journey in confirmation was enlightening as she affirmed her faith in Jesus Christ. Brylee Garner’s faith in Jesus Christ was strengthened and profound. The trip to Gretna, Nebraska touched her life through the various stations of the cross. She said, “Through this trip I found it moving and emotional.” Her mentor, Kevin Garner, attested to the spiritual growth that Brylee portrayed during the confirmation journey.
Kingsley Mudambanuki had little time to join the confirmation class because of school. He enjoyed the Gretna trip and said he appreciated Jesus’ sacrifice for humanity. “I was so amazed by the trauma and agony that Jesus went through.” Andrew Brown cheered the confirmation group through his confidence in sharing and participation. His mentor, Kevin Garner, testified to the spiritual growth of Andrew. “As Drew continues to grow and evolve in his faith, he is on his way to becoming a remarkable witness for Christ.” Traci Brown loves the Lord and went through baptism as she journeyed into confirmation. She always desired to get closer to God. She attested to being nervous in the genesis of confirmation and later got stronger in the journey. “Now that it is almost over, I feel I have learned more about the church and how we grow as a church family.”
Emma Brown’s piece was wrapped in deep thinking and meditation. She responded to the questions with thoughtfulness and love of Christ. She said, “I am closer to God and happy.” Her mentor, Bess Brewer, highlighted her curiosity and caring. “She loves God and her family.” Keilana Woodard was confident in her faith journey. She craved to be strengthened more in the Lord and appreciated the Gretna trip. Her mentors, Jennifer Hosie and Dr. Jennifer Gordon, applauded her reflective thoughts during the journey. “She is growing more in knowing God and curious about her faith.” They enjoyed her questions and believed that she would go far in serving God.
Lauren Tenbrink was quiet and observant. She enjoyed and appreciated the Gretna trip. She reflected insightfully saying, “The statues had a lot of detail on them, and I liked listening to the stories at each station. Confirmation helped me to learn about my church and faith.” Her mentor, Wendy Smith, believed that Lauren would grow more in Christ. “I am so proud of how you have grown during the confirmation journey. You have such a kind and loving heart. This is just the beginning of your lifelong relationship with God.”
“Congratulations!” We wish you success – both in your faith in God and in your pursuits of life. Keep moving in faith knowing that you are not alone. The Holy Spirit lives within and will enable you to conquer the trials and challenges of life. Amen.
Submitted By:
Rev. Ever V. Mudambanuki
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LOWMAN’S GOT TALENT XI !!
Are you a singer or a dancer? Do you play a musical instrument? Can you tell some jokes, act in a skit, or do magic tricks? Perhaps you just enjoy sitting in the audience, eating popcorn, and enjoying a soft drink while you cheer on the children, youth, and adults who share their talents. Whether you perform or watch, be sure to mark your calendars for Saturday, August 17 at 7:00 p.m. in the sanctuary. A free will donation goes into our Choir Scholarship Fund that pays college students to ring and sing with our music groups. Those who wish to participate in the talent show need to be aware of the following requirements:
By July 7 -- You must sign up with Jeannie Gish.
By August 4 -- You must give Jeannie the title of your act or the song you are singing or playing or dancing to. You must also give a recording of your dance music to Adam.
On August 17 -- You must attend a staging and sound rehearsal from 10:00am until noon. You must be present for the 7:00pm show no later than 6:40pm.
This is always a fun event in our church year! Mark your calendars and come enjoy!
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Children’s Ministry Team - April Report
We continue to seek enthusiastic and energetic Sunday school teachers!
VBS is set for July 15-18th from 6-8pm, with the conclusion on Sunday, July 21 as a part of worship service. We are doing Camp Firelight from Christianbook.com. Betsy Brogren has agreed to organize and run VBS, but as always the director will need much help and support from Lowman’s leaders and congregation.
Volunteers will be essential for the success of VBS. Various roles are available such as snack preparation, arts and crafts, story tellers, readers, theater support, indoor/outdoor activites, sign-in/discharge attendants, runners, coordinator assistants, teacher assistants, and many more! Showcase your talents and be part of VBS 2024. More exciting news to follow about Camp Firelight as the event approaches. There is a QR code being developed to signup for Camp Firelight.
Confirmation class concluded on May 19 during our worshp service. (See additional information above.) There is a possibility of additional confirmation classes. This will be at Pastor Ever’s discretion.
Anyone interested in volunteering for VBS or any Children's Ministry activities, contact Nancy Garner via email at kngarner@sbcglobal.net or via text at 785-640-9501.
Growing with the children fills the heart.
Blessings from Nancy Garner
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- Janet Schalansky -- health concerns
- Pat Clark--JOY to be going home!
- Sympathy to the family of Charles Balocca, Judy Balocca's son, in his passing
- Donna Nusser -- health concerns
- Joseph Sapata, Karen Boldra's son-in-law--health concerns
- Miriam, friend of Rosie Cooper--health concerns
- Birth of Charlie Snow Medley on May 19, daughter of Jake & Macy Medley, granddaughter of Jennifer Hosie and great-granddaughter of Jackie Howard
- Marlis Anderson Key, friend of Phyllis Hemberger--health concerns
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BREAKING NEWS TO ALL LOWMAN SCHOLARS!!
SCHOLARSHIP FUNDS AVAILABLE
There are two different scholarship funds available for Lowman UMC members with one simple application. Since we are late in getting this information to you, we will accept applications until June 30, 2024.
The application, which includes the terms and conditions, is available through the church office.
If you are interested or have questions, please contact the church office via phone 785-272-8921 or email lowman@lowmanumc.org.
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SUMMER SPECIAL MUSIC
During the summer months when the Bell Choir and Joyful Noise are taking a break, the opportunity exists for other musicians to praise God with their special gifts. In place of the choir anthem, each Sunday we have special music. That is where you come in! Beginning May 26 and every Sunday through September 1 Jeannie Gish schedules people to share their musical talents. It is important to remember that since we stream our service on Facebook Live, all the music performed must be covered by one of our two license sources. Jeannie can help you by suggesting some licensed music or checking to see if your favorite song is licensed. If the Spirit moves you, contact Jeannie to schedule a Sunday to provide our special music.
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The Babcock family would like to thank everyone who helped in any way with John’s service and the reception afterward. Every effort and contribution is greatly appreciated. It was, for us, an uplifting and fitting remembrance of John’s life and legacy. To Liz and Randy Gragg, we can never adequately express our gratitude for all that you did.
Thanks to those who sent him a card or made a phone call during his time at Lexington. He kept every card and note.
A huge thank you to those who visited John, many of you more than once. He was blessed with many visitors from many sources and the impact of those visits for both of us cannot be overstated. If you are able, please visit folks in a similar situation. Visits are incredibly important and impactful.
Special thanks to Pastor Ever for the literally countless visits and for getting out of bed in the middle of the night to be with us after John passed. As he said so many times, John loved you and your visits. You are a treasure!
Blessings,
Carol and family
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VANCO UPDATE
As of the end of June, you will no longer be able to use Vanco to make donations to Lowman United Methodist Church. The Lowman Leadership team made this decision due to the high cost of using Vanco.
You will still be able to make donations through the Square (on Sunday mornings) and Venmo (anytime.) If you need assistance using either, please contact the Lowman finance office.
Also available is the ability to make donations from your bank account on a weekly or monthly basis through ACH. Please contact the Lowman finance office if you would like more information on this service.
Lowman United Methodist Church would like to take this opportunity to thank all givers – you make Lowman a thriving church. THANK YOU!
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From the desk of Karen Willard:
I will be leaving as the director of the Shepherd's Center on June 1, and we would appreciate it if you would spread the word about our job search. If you know someone interested in this part-time contract position, please have them email a resume to Kathy Harr at drkathyharr@aol.com. For more information, the job ad and job description can be found on our website at www.shepherdscentertopeka.org.
Working for the Shepherd's Center has been a blessing, and I know God placed me here over the past 4 ½ years to help rebuild after COVID-19 and to further the mission to provide opportunities for older adults to engage and thrive. I will continue to be involved with the Shepherd's Center as a member. I'm not retiring and have nothing lined up; I'm just waiting for God to lead me to my next adventure. 😊
I appreciate your support of the Shepherd's Center. Whether you give financial support, provide in-kind services, or give presentations at Adventures in Learning, you help us help the aging community thrive through our programs. We are so very grateful because we could not offer our programs without your support.
Feel free to call (785-249-3258) or email (shepherdstopeka@yahoo.com) me if you have any questions
With sincere gratitude,
Karen Willard
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DOORSTEP COORDINATOR
Lowman has a strong relationship with Doorstep, an organization that through faith-based organizations provides emergency aid to those in need to promote long-term self-sufficiency.
Susan Venis has been the Lowman Doorstep Coordinator for 13 years and is ready to pass the privilege on. We are seeking an individual who is ready to lead and serve Lowman and the community in this capacity. Duties include:
· Communicating Doorstep needs to Lowman congregation. This includes attending Doorstep monthly meetings and N.O.W committee meetings. Creating and sending highlights into the office for publishing in the bulletin and newsletter as needed. Their Christmas in July and Christmas are the two big donation events.
· Coordinating volunteers during winter months to volunteer in the Doorstep Store handing out gifts to the community.
· Managing donations brought in by the congregation. Checking the Doorstep bin weekly and delivering (or coordinating volunteers) items to Doorstep.
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REMINDER OF AN EASY WAY TO GIVE!
Scan the QR Code to give to Lowman UMC through Venmo
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HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE MAY LEADERSHIP TEAM MEETING | |
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FINANCE - Diane Schafer
Jacob Mackey is working in the Financial Manager position, learning the job and doing well in his training. As Jacob is doing the day-to-day work, Diane is working to complete organization of the office.
Team reviewed the chart of account and CD balances, bills to be paid, and April Profit & Loss Statement.
NOW TEAM - Amanda Garner & Patrick Schultes
The job description for the Doorstep Coordinator has been updated and ready for posting.
Movie on the Lawn - June 1 at 8:30pm which may include an ice cream social.
Sharefest - Lowman had approximately 15 people volunteer. We served Pineridge Prep and all projects were completed by noon.
Basket for the Doorstep auction - Amber has donated a coffee/espresso machine and we will ask the congregation to donate coffee and other items for the basket.
Craft Fair and Operation Christmas Child Boxes - Tina reported that she has received donations for the upcoming events.
TRUSTEES - Jim Jones
The annual boiler inspection alerted us to a boiler pump that needs to be replaced; Jim suggested having the old pump motor rebuilt as a backup.
FUNDRAISING - Adam Schafer - Reviewed upcoming events
09/15/2024 - Macho Man Bake Sale, coordinated by Adam and Kevin
10/05/2024 - Fall Festival, coordinated by Jennifer Hosie and Alison Davenport
Spring Tea 2025 - Proposed date 03/23/2025, need a coordinator assigned to organize.
Baked potato bar and basket auction netted $1,515.00
Door project - fully funded by a recent $6,000 donation, which will also fund the humidity control device for the sanctuary piano.
COMMUNICATIONS - Adam Schafer
Our Facebook goal is to post 2 times/weeek - reporting on the past Sunday and then on upcoming events, with possibly a story.
We need a disclaimer telling people their image is being used on Facebook. We will add this to the license slide at the end of the livestream.
WORSHIP & MUSIC - Susan Conrade
No meeting in May.
STAFF PARISH - Janet Schalansky and Jan Maxwell
Jan and Janet completed the church vitality and pastoral assessment.
Lowman has hired Brooke Medley as the second person in the nursery.
CHILDREN & FAMILY MINISTRY - Nancy Garner & Amanda Conrade
VBS, July 15-18 from 6-8 pm with the conclusion on Sunday, July 21 as a part of the worship service. Camp Firelight will be organized and directed by Betsy Brogren. Volunteers are essential for the success of VBS. A QR Code is being developed for Camp Firelight signup.
Still searching for enthusiastic and energetic Sunday school teachers and volunteers for VBS.
YOUTH - Amanda Conrade
We will be carpooling on the trip to Sight & Sound to see Queen Ester as the expense of hiring a motorcoach is prohibitive.
FELLOWSHIP - Margaret Jantzen
Possibility of all-church picnic was introduced. Margaret will speak with the NOW Team about scheduling the event.
STEPHEN MINISTRY - Margaret Jantzen
Meets 2nd Tuesday evening of the month, but may change to Sunday. We would like to involve more people and possibly schedule a new training.
ENDOWMENT & SCHOLARSHIP - Robert Maxwell, chair
A revised Scholarship application was presented to the Leadership Team, which was accepted.
PASTOR'S REPORT - Rev. Ever Mudambanuki
- Overview of the UMC General Conference
- Lowman is seeking a new Doorstep Coordinator to replace Susan Venis, who is retiring.
- JUMP – Nehemiah action assembly was well attended.
- Pastor Ever and Royce Dent as the lay delegate will represent LUMC at the Great Plains Annual Conference in June.
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Volunteering in June
Opening the church: Kelly & Missy Adams
Greeters: Choir members
Fellowship Snacks: Missy Adams
Liturgists
June 2 -- Amanda Garner
June 9 -- Robert Maxwell
June 16 -- Patty Bottorff
June 23 -- Jan Maxwell
June 30 -- Royce Dent
Children’s Message
June 2 -- Pastor Ever
June 9 -- Betsy Brogren
June 16 -- Royce Dent
June 23 -- Jeannie Gish
June 30 -- Jackie Howard
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Volunteering in July
Opening the church: Need Volunteer
Greeters: Judy Steves & Bess Brewer
Fellowship Snacks: Betsy Brogren
Liturgists
July 7 -- Margaret Jantzen
July 14 -- Phyllis Hemberger
July 21 -- Amanda Garner
July 28 -- Robert Maxwell
Children’s Message
July 7 -- Pastor Ever
July 14 -- Betsy Brogren
July 21 -- Jackie Howard
July 28 -- Royce Dent
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Leadership Team - Robert Maxwell, Chairperson
Lay Leadership Team - Rev. Ever Mudambanuki, Chairperson
Worship Team - Susan Conrade, Chairperson
Education Team - Nancy Garner & Amanda Conrade, Co-Chairpersons
Stewardship Team - Diane Schafer, Chairperson
Memorials Team - Dale Schafer, Chairperson
Endowment & Scholarships Team - Robert Maxwell, Chairperson
Nurture, Outreach, and Witness (NOW) Team - Amanda Garner & Patrick Schultes, Co-Chairpersons
Fellowship Team - Margaret Jantzen, Chairperson
Trustees Team - Jim Jones, Chairperson
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Lowman's calendar is posted on our website under events at www.lowmanumc.org | |
Have you ever used Lowman's online calendar? It features several months of scheduled events for Lowman. Recently added are two features to make it very helpful: If you click on an event, you may have an email reminder sent to you. You may also send an invitation to others to join the event. | |
BECOME PART OF OUR FAMILY | |
Would you like to become a member of Lowman United Methodist Church? We’d love to have you join our family! Call the church office at 785-272-8921 to visit with Pastor Ever. | | | | |
