PRAYER REQUESTSBetty Hollabaugh and family. Her husband, Dale, passed away recently.

Myrna Sanford and family. Her husband, Dick, passed away recently.

Jerome Alsdorf, who has health concerns.

Joe Samalenge, who is having back issues.

Wanda Jewell’s husband, Dave, who will be receiving medical treatments.

Those affected by the tragic school shooting in Florida.

IMPORTANT DATES(Check sections for more information.)

Wednesday, March 21st – Systems Leadership Seminar Begins (Conference Events), Disciple Making Training Registration Deadline (Conference Events)

Thursday, March 22nd – The Future of Church Giving Webinar (Conference Events)

Friday, March 23rd – New People/New Places Grant Deadline (Bulletin Board)

Saturday, March 24th – Easter Egg Hunt (District Events), Disciple Making Training (Conference Events)

Sunday, March 25th – Palm Sunday Breakfast (District Events)

Tuesday, March 27th – 5th Annual Prayer Journey Begins (District Events)

BIRTHDAYSThursday, March 22nd – Donna Parkinson

Sunday, March 25th – Broderick McGarvey & Chelsea Tickle

Monday, March 26th – Doreen Lawton

Tuesday, March 27th – Gary Wade

ANNIVERSARIESThursday, March 22nd – Jerry & Cindy Gray

NOTE: 2018 DISTRICT CONFERENCE IS SUNDAY, MAY 20 TH AT 2:30PM AT CHRIST UMC

EASTER HOURSPlease note that the District Office will be closed on Good Friday (Friday, March 30th) and Monday, April 2nd.

FUND BALANCE REPORTSIf your church did not submit their Fund Balance Report to the District Office, please do so as soon as possible, along with any additional missing paperwork. To see a helpful list of all required annual forms and due dates, please view the Form page on the Conference website.

BISHOP’S DAY ON THE DISTRICTPastors, please invite your lay leaders to attend a dinner on Wednesday, April 25th from 5pm to 7pm at Edinboro UMC with Bishop Cynthia Moore-Koikoi followed by a meeting open to all clergy and laity from 7:30pm to 9:30pm at Saegertown UMC.

SAYING FAREWELL TO JOEPlease mark your calendars for a farewell event for Joe as he transitions into retirement. The event is scheduled for Saturday, April 28th starting at 2:30pm at Nick’s Place in Edinboro. Light refreshments will be provided during a farewell reception followed by a time of worship. Everyone is welcome, but please RSVP with Andrea at the District Office (the earlier, the better!).

EVALUATION LINKS EMAILEDEmails from the WPA Board of Ministry were sent to all clergy in early January. Senior pastors should have received three separate emails and associate pastors should have received only one email with links to the new:

2018 Annual Pastor Performance Evaluation (sent Friday, January 5th) 2018 Annual SPRC Self-Evaluation (senior pastor’s responsibility to have completed; sent Tuesday, January 9 th) 2018 Annual Congregational Ministry Evaluation (senior pastor’s responsibility to have completed; sent Tuesday, January 9 th)

Please keep your email(s) with the link(s) as this is the only way to access the evaluations. If you do not see the email, please check your spam or promotions folder. The email likely went to the promotions folder if you have a Gmail account. The evaluations are due Tuesday, May 15th. If you have questions, please contact Andrea at the District Office.

EASTER EGG HUNTSaturday, March 24th, 10am to 12pm, Summit UMC (1510 Townhall Road, Erie, PA 16509)Come and hunt for Easter eggs, play games, and get your picture taken with the Easter Bunny. Refreshments will be served. For more information, call 814-864-3271.

PALM SUNDAY BREAKFASTSunday, March 25th, 7:30am, Kingsley UMC (913 Cranberry Street, Erie, PA 16502)All men and boys are invited to join us for this annual event to enjoy worship, fellowship, and food. Our guest speaker will be Erie’s mayor, Joe Schember. Worship and Holy Communion are at 7:30am with breakfast at 8am, followed by our speaker. Reservations are due by Friday, March 23rd by calling the church office at 814-459-3205.

5 TH ANNUAL PRAYER JOURNEY

Tuesday, March 27th to Sunday, April 1st, 8am to 6pm, Hydetown UMC (12887 Main Street, Hydetown, PA 16328)Do you feel like a lost lamb in a world of hungry wolves? Have the cares and worries of this world left you feeling overwhelmed and afraid? Come spend some time in quiet rest with the Shepherd. Take a self-guided journey through a variety of devotional stations based on Psalm 23: the Lord as the Good Shepherd. For more information, call 814-758-5550 or 814-657-3132.

THE LAST SUPPERThursday, March 29th, 7pm, Corry First UMC (650 Worth Street, Corry, PA 16407)Corry First UMC will present a living dramatization of Leonardo DeVinci’s painting, The Last Supper. During the drams, each apostle in turn wonders aloud if he is the one who will betray Jesus. Communion will be celebrated at the conclusion of this moving presentation. There is no admission charge and all are welcome to attend this service. Nursery will be provided. For more information, call the church at 814-665-2445.

HOLY THURSDAY SERVICEThursday, March 29th, 7pm, Sugar Lake UMC (6680 Sugar Lake Road, Cochranton, PA 16317)Join Sugar Lake and Deckard’s for their annual Holy Thursday service.

THE SHADOW OF THE CROSSFriday, March 30th, 7pm, Stone UMC (956 South Main Street, Meadville, PA 16335)Join us for a musical “service of darkness” focusing on the final hours of Jesus’ life and crucifixion. Standing in the shadow of the cross, we find comfort and courage in knowing that we can live in a future that is ultimately God’s making. For more information, contact the church office at 814-724-6736.

EASTER EGG HUNTSaturday, March 31st, 1pm, Woodcock UMC (23048 Gravel Run Road, Saegertown, PA 16433)Enjoy visiting with the Easter Bunny, listening to music, participating in an egg hunt, making crafts, and refreshments. No cost. For more information, call 814-382-4128.

RUMMAGE/BAKE SALESaturday, April 7th, 9am to 2pm, Calvary UMC (136 East State Street, Albion, PA 16410)There will be a $2 bag sale from noon to 2pm.

 MISSION LUNCHEONWednesday, April 18th, 11am to 1pm, Harmonsburg UMC (14182 First Street, Harmonsburg, PA 16422)For a $6 donation, guests can select from a variety of fresh homemade soups and sandwiches, along with an assortment of pies. Options may include chicken noodle, ham and bean, or stuffed pepper soups; pulled pork, sloppy joe, egg salad, or chicken salad sandwiches; and a slice of homemade pie with a beverage. Funds raised will support various mission projects sponsored by Harmonsburg UMC. For more information, call 814-382-8208.

SPRING CLOTHING GIVE-AWAYFriday, April 27th to Saturday, April 28th, Franklin Center UMC (7471 Old State Road, Edinboro, PA 16412)FREE gently used men’s, women’s, and children’s clothing. While you shop, enjoy a FREE Smith’s hotdog, UTZ potato chips, and beverage. Come and bring a friend or two to take advantage of this outreach to our communities. Times are 3pm to 7pm on Friday and 9am to 1pm on Saturday.

JOYOUS SPIRIT CHAIR YOGAThis class is offered on Wednesdays at 1pm at Lakewood UMC (3856 West 10th Street, Erie, PA 16505). Cost is $5 for the one-hour class led by Valerie Baltzer of Empowerment Resource Center. Join us for this healthy opportunity to bring our body, mind, and spirit into a more relaxed state. Contact: www.lakewooderie.org or 814-833-4131.

SPECIAL MEETING ROOMS/MEALSGroups planning a special meeting or meal during Annual Conference should submit request forms as soon as possible. Get the forms at www.wpaumc.org/AC.

ITEMS AVAILABLE AT LOCAL CHURCHCranesville UMC has started house cleaning early and has found a large number of dinner plates, cups, saucers, and bowls that would like a new forever home. If your church is interested, please contact Terry Campbell at 814-566-1447.

ORGAN SPEAKER AVAILABLE AT LOCAL CHURCH

An organ speaker (Leslie Organ Speaker 130, Electro Music Model #H80185) is available at Woodcock UMC (23048 Gravel Run Road, Saegertown, PA 16433). It is free to anyone who can make use of it. If interested, please call 814-382-4128.

CHURCH SEEKING SERVSAFE CONTACTUnion City First UMC is seeking the contact of a local ServSafe instructor who would be able to certify members of the church and community. If your church has any information, please contact the church office at 814-438-2113.

ERT TRAININGThe Disaster Response Ministries Team provides training for Early Response Team members and keeps records by district of those who are current in their training, which must be updated every three years. To help in early stages of recovery work in areas such as Puerto Rico, a current ERT Badge is required. To host a regional training at your church, contact Pastor Calvin Cook, team chair, at RevCalvinCook@gmail.com.

HELP VISITORS FIND YOUR CHURCHCheck your church’s Find-A-Church profile to be sure all of the information is updated, welcoming, and helpful for virtual visitors seeking a place to celebrate Easter. UPDATE YOUR PROFILE

UPDATED – SPRING LAY SERVANT MINISTRY SCHOOLSThe Spring Lay Servant Ministry Schools are as follows:

Saturday, April 7th to Saturday, May 5th, 9am to 11:30am, McKeesport First UMC (Greensburg District) Sunday, April 8th to Sunday, May 20th, 2:30pm to 5:30pm, Clarion First UMC (Franklin District) Saturday, April 14th & Saturday, April 21st, multiple locations (Kane District)

MORE DETAILS

SPRING WOMEN’S RETREATSaturday, April 28th, 8am to 3pm, Grace UMC (501 Pennsylvania Avenue East, Warren, PA 16365)Join Grace UMC as it welcomes Christian singer, speaker, humorist, and author Sue Duffield (www.sueduffield.com). The event includes breakfast (suggest donation of $5) and lunch (suggested donation of $8); please note that the church will not have change for these meals. A free will offering will be received to defray the costs of having Sue as the presenter for this event. Reservations are required and begin Thursday, March 1st and continue until Thursday, March 29th or until 250 women are registered. Make your reservation by visiting “embracegrace” on Facebook or by calling the church office at 814-723-9440 (Monday through Friday, 9am to 12pm or 1pm to 3pm).

LAITY ACADEMY FOR STEWARDSHIPThe United Methodist Foundation of Western PA invites laity to participate in a Laity Academy for Stewardship and Leadership, a two-year program that kicks off with an event at Lakeside Chautauqua. LEARN MORE

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

PART-TIME CUSTODIANWeis Library UMC is looking for a part-time custodian for approximately 10 hours per week. For more information or to apply, please contact the church office at 814-833-3225 or weis.church@gmail.com.

PART-TIME RESPITE CARE COORDINATORAll God’s Children Ministries is seeking a part-time respite care coordinator. Please see the AGCM section below for more details.

CHAPLAINS IN THE PARKSThe PA Council of Churches’ Chaplains in the Parks program is seeking individuals to fill paid part-time and full-time chaplain slots for the summer of 2018. Chaplains need only be Christians with hearts for serving God and who want to bring worship services, provide a listening ear, and visit with people from different religious traditions. Students, retired, laity, and clergy are all welcome to apply. MORE INFORMATION

CLASSIFIEDS SECTION OF WPAUMC WEBSITEGO HERE

2017 RENTAL/HOUSING ALLOWANCE INFO2017 Rental/Housing Allowance information has been posted on the Benefits page of the Conference website. It is listed near the bottom of the page under “miscellaneous” and includes legislation and a worksheet. Go to www.wpaumc.org/benefits.

2018 REVISED COMMON LECTIONARYDiscipleship Ministries offers a two-page listing of Revised Common Lectionary (RCL) readings and liturgical colors for 2018 Sundays and special days. DOWNLOAD

NEW UMC HANDBOOKThe new United Methodist Church Handbook, which covers the next four years, is available, providing a detailed overview of the denomination’s beliefs, mission, structure, and history. The handbook is a free, go-to resource for anyone in search of information about the church and is helpful for leaders and new members. GET HANDBOOK

LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENTBoth lay and clergy will find information about events, ongoing programs, and continuing education opportunities, as well as scholarship applications, on our newly updated WEBPAGE. If you have an event that you’d like to see listed, contact Rev. Susan Moudry at Susan.Moudry@wpaumc.org.

GRANTS AND SCHOLARSHIPS

GBHEM LOANSSpring loan applications are open from Wednesday, December 13th to Wednesday, May 2nd. READ MORE

NEW PEOPLE/NEW PLACES GRANTSThe Conference’s Parish and Community Development Committee is implementing a new process for awarding its “New Places/New People.” Two grant application deadlines have been set for 2018 – Friday, March 23rd and Friday, September 28th. Decisions on grants will be made as soon as possible after each deadline. DETAILS AND APPLICATION

50 CAREER IN MINISTRY SCHOLARSHIPSCM CARES, the Church Mutual Insurance Company Foundation, has announced that it is now accepting applications for its second annual Religious Scholarship Program, offering up to $250,000 in scholarships to graduate and doctoral students who are committed to a career in ministry. Scholars who wish to apply must be enrolled full-time in an advanced degree program in theology, ministry, or other field of religious study at an accredited theological seminary, college, or university during the 2018-2019 academic year. Deadline to apply is Saturday, April 14th. DETAILS

SCHOLARSHIPSThere are a variety of scholarships at www.umc.org/resources/scholarships and at www.wpaumc.org/scholarshipforms.

SEMINARY FINANCIAL AIDApplications are available at www.wpaumc.org/BOOM.

www.euma-erie.org

COME WALK WITH EUMATake steps to end homelessness at this year’s Highmark Walk for a Healthy Community! This 5K fundraising walk (or optional one mile walk) is set for Saturday, June 2nd at Presque Isle State Park, Beach 11, beginning with registration at 7:45am and the walk at 9am. The walk is presented by Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield to benefit nonprofits – so 100% of donations raised by EUMA walkers will benefit our programs to end homelessness for families with children, veterans, youth, and others in need. It is free to participate/register at http://hcf.convio.net/euma, but you can earn a Highmark Walk t-shirt by raising/donating $30 and (new this year!) a Team EUMA t-shirt by raising/donating $50! AND one EUMA walker will win a Fitbit Alta! You will be entered to win the Fitbit for every $25 you raise. For more information and event materials, which are also attached to this email, visit our website at www.euma-erie.org.

6 TH ANNUAL SHOE DRIVE EUMA and All God’s Children Ministries are kicking off the 6th annual shoe drive – running now through Sunday, July 1st. We are excited to work on this collaborative fundraising project again to raise support for our ministries and we are asking for our churches to get involved! See All God’s Children Ministries update for more information or visit www.euma-erie.org.

MINISTRY NEEDSCurrent ministry needs at EUMA include:

The Refuge – bath and hand towels and 30-gallon, heavy-duty black garbage bags Healthcare for the Homeless Partnership – healthy snacks for the Wellness Clinic serving the homeless population and others in need (ex.

Pretzels, Cheez-Its, Smucker’s Uncrustables)If you can help with these specific needs, donations for The Refuge can be dropped off to the shelter (1027 East 26 th Street) and HC4HP donations can be dropped off to the EUMA administrative office (1033 East 26th Street). Thank you!

http://allgodschildrenministries.org

6 TH ANNUAL SHOE DRIVE The 6th annual shoe drive is underway. We will be actively collecting new and gently used shoes through July. The proceeds from this event will benefit the ministries of the Erie-United Methodist Alliance and All God’s Children Ministries. We are asking for help from our district churches to help make this event successful again this year. We have been offered a bonus if we can fill 1,400 bags of shoes this year. We filled just over 1,300 last year so that goal is within reach. Packaging supplies will be available at District Conference, from EUMA, or by contacting Debbie Hills. Information and materials to help you with your shoe collection can be found on the EUMA website. For more information, please call Debbie at 440-812-4624 or email her at deacon.dhills@gmail.com.

PART-TIME RESPITE CARE COORDINATORAll God’s Children Ministries is seeking a part-time respite care coordinator. Key qualities include: understanding the needs of families of children affected by disability; basic knowledge and experience in planning and implementing children’s Christian education; and a willingness to make needed adaptations in programming to address individual needs. Key competencies include: organizational skills; volunteer recruitment and management; and a love of children. Interested applicants should contact Rev. Debbie Hills at deacon.dhills@gmail.com or 440-812-4624.

RAMPS OF HOPEhttp://allgodschildrenministries.org/programs/ramps-hope

T-SHIRTS FOR SALEThere have been several requests for new Ramps of Hope t-shirts. Email Rev. Debbie Hills at deacon.dhills@gmail.com with how many you would like and the size(s) you need. T-shirts are $12 each. If you pay by check, please make it payable to AGCM (cash is fine, too!).

Respite Care http://allgodschildrenministries.org/programs/respitecare

SEEKING VOLUNTEERSRespite care volunteers are being sought for one or two Saturday afternoons a month. Options are to help as an ongoing or occasional volunteer. Please contact Sarah Deemer for more information at agcmrespite@gmail.com.

http://www.olmstedmanor.org/

h ttp s :// j u m on v i l l e .or g /

FATHER/SON RETREATFriday, April 6th to Sunday, April 8th

Jumonville invites you to come and join Craig Meeder and Rev. Jude Urso as they lead this fun-filled weekend retreat for fathers and sons. The weekend begins Friday with registration from 6pm to 7pm in the Welcome Center and concludes around 10am on Sunday. Pastor Jude will be teaching on Joseph and Jesus and the relationship they had with one another. Craig will be taking care of all the fun activities like learning to use a compass out in the woods, archery, tomahawk throwing, hikes, campfires, and a variety of challenges in the adventure center. The cost of the weekend is $125 for dad and $65 per son. This includes lodging (in either the Inn or Washington Lodge), food, and program supplies. If you have any questions, please call 724-439-4912 or email Pastor Jude at jude@jumonville.org. REGISTER

SUMMER CAMP OPEN HOUSESunday, May 20th, 3:30pm to 6pmThis event is specifically scheduled for families who are considering Jumonville’s summer camping program as well as for new campers who would like to come and see Jumonville before their week of camp. We are opening our facility and planning a special day where you can come and see for yourself what Jumonville and its many summer programs have to offer. Come and see the site and receive a personalized tour of the campus. You will also have a chance to enjoy a meal in the dining hall! Camping registrations will be accepted for summer camp events with space available. A minimum deposit of $50 is required to hold your reservation. Reservations for the open house must be made by Friday, May 4th to guarantee dinner reservations. You may still register after that, but we cannot guarantee that dinner will be available. You can register online, by mail using THIS FORM, or by calling the office at 724-439-4912. REGISTER ONLINE

2018 SUMMER CAMPThe new 2018 summer camp brochure is ready for you! You can either view it online (HERE) or get it in the mail. If you attended camp in the last couple of years, your family will get a brochure in the mail very soon. And if you need extra copies of the brochure for either your family or your friends, you can call the Jumonville office at 724-439-4912 and they will mail them to you or send them directly to your friends if you give them their

contact information. Brochures are also being sent to the churches. Feel free to check out the 2018 summer camp schedule on the Jumonville website. Remember, you can register online so you don’t have to wait until you get your brochure in the mail.

SUMMER CAMP GIFT CERTIFICATESComplete an online form HERE and you will receive the gift certificate in the mail so you can give it as a gift. That person’s summer camp account will be credited with the amount of the gift certificate. You can also download the form HERE. Simply print the file, complete it, and mail it to Jumonville with your check. They will follow up by mailing your gift certificate to the address that you provide.

https://www.campallegheny.org/

ANNUAL CELEBRATION OF MINISTRYSunday, April 15th, 5pmCamp Allegheny’s Annual Celebration of Ministry and Booster Dinner will be a wonderful opportunity for current and potential supporters of this wonderful ministry to hear about the amazing work that God has done in the past year and also to hear some of the improvement planned for 2018! Enjoy entertainment by Somerset’s own Apostle’s Creed. The night will conclude with recognition of our “Volunteer of the Year” and will be highlighted by our guest speaker, Bishop Cynthia Moore-Koikoi. For more information or to RSVP, contact the camp at 814-754-5122 or info@campallegheny.org.

SPRING SERVICE OPPORTUNITYSunday, April 22nd to Saturday, April 28th

Supporting Camp Allegheny can be more than donating dollars. Our Spring Work Week and Work Day are a great opportunity for youth groups, men’s and women’s groups, and service organizations to work with their hands and make a difference in the lives of hundreds of campers. Camp has projects for groups of varied skills and interests. Groups are welcome to come for the day or stay overnight all week long. Lunch is provided for day groups and meals are provided for the duration of an overnight group’s stay. For more information or to RSVP, contact the camp at 814-754-5122 or info@campallegheny.org.

ADULT WRANGLER WEEKENDFriday, May 18th to Sunday, May 20th

Adults can enjoy a weekend in God’s Creation on one of God’s most noble creatures! Trail rides, spiritual formation, other camp activities, and free time to enjoy rest, relaxation, and recreation are all a part of this wonderful weekend. Renewal, refreshment, and a whole lot of fun are what you can expect! Arrival starts at 4:30pm on Friday and departure is at 1pm on Sunday. Cost is $150 per person and includes two nights, four meals, and at least six hours of horse time. Guests are welcome to stay for our open house, which starts at 2pm on Sunday, May 20th. For more information or to register, contact the camp at 814-754-5122 or info@campallegheny.org.

OPEN HOUSE AND ALUMNI PICNICSunday, May 20th, 2pm to 6pmMusic, fun camp activities, reconnecting with friends, a picnic dinner, or information about our summer camp programs: whichever it is that brings you out to our open house, you will get to experience them all! This completely free event will also feature an alumni tent, including photos from across the decades in our Camp Allegheny “Memory Lane.” Camper and staff alumni can reconnect with old friends and remember how blessed they were by their time at Camp Allegheny! For more information or to RSVP, contact the camp at 814-754-5122 or info@campallegheny.org.

http://www.wesleywoods.com

WELCOME TO WESLEY WOODS!To make visitors feel more welcome and at home, Wesley Woods wants to replace all of its signs with some that are easier to read, accurate, and more exciting. You can help by making a financial donation or sharing your ideas, resources, or talents. To do so, contact Kira Argot, Wesley Woods’ program director, at program@wesleywoods.com.

EASTER SUNRISE SERVICESunday, April 1st, 6:30amVisit Wesley Woods for an Easter sunrise service, followed by a buffet breakfast at 8am.

MAN CAMPFriday, April 6th to Sunday, April 8th

Join guest speaker John Royer of Leatherwood Outdoors, local pastor Rick Hamrick, and Wesley Woods’s staff as they dig deeper into God’s calling of leadership on the lives of men. Stay at Wesley Woods for $86 per person, which includes lodging on Friday and Saturday, or commute for $65 per person. Both options include three meals on Saturday and breakfast on Sunday and activities and sessions with guest speakers. Arrival is at 7pm on Friday and departure is at 11am on Sunday. Register online at www.wesleywoods.com.

CHER R Y RUN CAMP

http://cherryruncamp.org/youth/

2018 CHERRY RUN CAMP MEETINGSaturday, July 28th to Sunday, August 5th

Cherry Run Camp is in need of volunteers to work at the camp in varying capacities. Volunteering at the camp would be a wonderful short-term mission work project for teams or individuals. Helpers are needed in the two weeks prior to camp and kitchen help is needed the week of camp. For more information or to schedule a day or two to work at the camp, please contact Mr. Dennis Mahle at 814-648-1676.

 

UPCOMINGEVENTS

CONFIRMATION EVENTSApril 6th, 7th, & 14th

Various Locations

SEE ALL THE PEOPLEApril 9th, 11th, 17th, 18th, & 19th

Various Locations

MINI MISSION UApril 15th – 17th Olmsted Manor

OLDER ADULT MINISTRY WORKSHOPApril 16th – 17th

Delmont: Faith UMC

YOUTH LEADER SKILL DAYApril 21st

Kittanning First UMC

MANY FACES OF POVERTYApril 28th

Dutilh UMC

PASTORS’ ACADEMYMay 21st – 23rd

Olmsted Manor

View the Calendar

NEWS

BLOGS

CLASSIFIEDS

ENEWS

INFOCUS PUBLICATION

JOYFUL NOISE PUBLICATION

OBITUARIES

PHOTO GALLERIES

REWIND

SUBSCRIBE TO PUBLICATIONS

HELPFUL LINKS

APPOINTMENTS

CALL TO MINISTRY

CAMPING

CLASSIFIEDS

CLERGY RESOURCES

LEADER DEVELOPMENT

OBITUARIES

ONLINE PAYMENTS

HISTORICAL RECORDS

MISSION NEWS

ENEWS ARCHIVE

NOTE: 2018 ANNUAL CONFERENCE IS WEDNESDAY, JUNE 6 TH TO SATURDAY, JUNE 9 TH

ANNUAL CONFERENCE DEADLINESSome deadlines are approaching as we prepare for Annual Conference at Grove City College. See what they are at www.wpaumc.org/AC.

THE FUTURE OF CHURCH GIVINGThursday, March 22nd, 6:30pmRecent changes in federal tax law allowing fewer taxpayers to itemize deductions, including charitable giving, is an area of great interest, impact, and anxiety for church leaders. Ken Sloane, director of stewardship at Discipleship Ministries, will lead a webinar to explore ways churches can be proactive with donors in this new reality. DETAILS

DISCIPLE MAKING TRAININGSaturday, March 24th, 9am to 12pm, Crossroads UMC (1120 Boyce Road, Upper St. Clair, PA 15241)Learn to help others bring a relationship with Jesus Christ through sharing the Gospel in a natural way. Led by Pastor Steve Cordle. All Conference clergy and laity, including youth, are welcome. No cost. Registration deadline is Wednesday, March 21st. REGISTER

YOUTH AT ANNUAL CONFERENCETo sign up to be a page or youth delegate, fill out the youth caucus application. It is due Sunday, April 1st. APPLICATION

YOUTH AWARDSApplications for the TIMOTHY AWARD (for youth who embody the characteristics of 1 Timothy 4:11-12) and the YOUTH WORKER OF THE YEAR AWARD (for outstanding youth leaders) are now available. Both are due Sunday, April 1st.  EVANGELISM AWARDSKnow someone who’s reaching people with the Good News of God’s love? Nominate them for a Denman Award for Evangelism! The Conference Evangelism Team is taking nominations until Tuesday, April 3rd. LEARN MORE

TRUTH AND RACIAL JUSTICE INITIATIVETuesday, April 3rd to Thursday, April 5th, Washington, D.C.As the nation marks the 50th anniversary of the assassination of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., United Methodists will join members of the National Council of Churches for the Truth and Racial Justice Initiative. The Board of Church and Society on Capitol Hill will host a briefing on Tuesday, April 3 rd before Bishop Bruce Ough, president of the Council of Bishops, leads a prayer rally. A Wednesday, April 4 th Rally to End Racism will be on the National Mall. DETAILS

PITTSBURGH MLK SERVICEWednesday, April 4th, 6:30pm, Trinity Cathedral (328 6th Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15222)Bishop Cynthia will participate in an ecumenical service to mark the 50th anniversary of the assassination of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

2018 CONFIRMATION PROGRAM REBOOTThe Conference is revamping its programming for Confirmation Class visits. To emphasize programming related to youth and allow for more significant time with our Bishop, leaders can choose one of five dates to bring their group to one of four locations around Western PA from 10am to 3pm (lunch included). Online registration is open at www.wpaumc.org/Confirmation2018. Choices include:

Saturday, April 7th, UM Conference Center (Cranberry Township) Saturday, April 14th, Wesley Woods

If you choose one of the camp locations for your Confirmation Class visit with the Bishop, you may want to think about staying overnight for a mini-retreat with your group and exploring some of the camp facilities. A charge would be involved and overnight reservations should be made directly through the camp. WESLEY WOODS

UPDATED – #SEEALLTHEPEOPLEThe Conference Evangelism Team will offer regional training events in five districts in April to help teams from local churches discover more about the people in their communities, hear how some congregations have connected with those outside their doors, and find resources to help them reach out and See All the People. Dates are:

Monday, April 9th, Nixon UMC Wednesday, April 11th, Seneca UMC

Tuesday, April 17th, Bethany UMC (Portage) Wednesday, April 18th, Cochran Memorial UMC Thursday, April 19th, Christ UMC (North Huntingdon)

DETAILS

CLERGY RETIREMENT SEMINARTuesday, April 10th, 9am to 4pm, Hickman Room (United Methodist Center, 1204 Freedom Road, Cranberry Township, PA 16066)A seminar for clergy retiring in 2018 is scheduled for April. Contact Alexis Soohy at Alexis.Soohy@wpaumc.org.

CORRECTED – NEJ UMVIM ACADEMYWednesday, April 11th to Saturday, April 14th, Pecometh Camp (136 Bookers Wharf Road, Centreville, Maryland 21617)The 2018 NEJ UMVIM Academy, which brings together mission leaders and instructors from UMCOR, Global Ministries, and more, will be held in the spring. Among the courses will be specific preparation to serve in Puerto Rico, how to welcome those displace by disasters of all kinds intro your community, UMCOR courses, and possible chainsaw certification. Many courses provide lessons you can use immediately and can be submitted for CEUs. Save the date and contact Calvin Cook, if interested. Registration will be open in January.

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT WORKSHOPThursday, April 12th, Pittsburgh Theological Seminary (616 North Highland Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15206)Rev. Dr. Doug Powe, director of the Lewis Center for Church Leadership and James Logan Professor of Evangelism at Wesley Theological Seminary, will lead a mourning workshop on missional engagement for church leaders. He will deliver the annual Albright-Deering Lecture in Methodist studies in the afternoon. Both are open to all, but registration is required for the workshop. DETAILS

SECTION LEADER TRAININGSaturday, April 14th, 9am to 2pm, Dutilh UMC (Cranberry Township, PA)Clergy and laity are invited to learn skills to facilitate Christ-centered discussion, debate, and decision-making during these training sessions. Teens are welcome. Those trained will have the opportunity to serve as a section leader during Annual Conference. For more information or to register, contact Ms. Guinevere Gregory at gp1954@comcast.net or Rev. Greg Spencer at glspncr@gmail.com or 724-224-2370.

UPDATED – OLDER ADULT MINISTRIES SEMINARSunday, April 15th to Monday, April 16th, Delmont: Faith UMC (305 Freeport Street, Delmont, PA 15626)This practical time, from 2:30pm to 9pm on Sunday and from 8:30am to 4pm on Monday, will be led by Rev. Dr. Will Randolph. Formerly of WPA, Rev. Randolph is the Director of Aging and Older Adult Ministries for the United Methodist Church. The workshop will be to learn more about ministries and resources to address the needs of baby boomers and older adults in congregations. Cost is $60 per person. RSVP deadline is Monday, April 2nd. DETAILS AND REGISTER

UPDATED – MINI MISSION USunday, April 15th to Tuesday, April 17th, Olmsted Manor (17 East Main Street, Ludlow, PA 16333)Led by Rev. Lisa Grant, the theme will be one of spiritual growth and living as a covenant community. Contact Diane Miller (diane.miller2747@gmail.com) or Dara Sterling (dara.sterling@gmail.com). Some scholarships are available. DETAILS

CHRISTIAN UNITY WORKSHOPMonday, April 16th to Thursday, April 19th, Silver Spring, MDThe annual National Workshop on Christian Unity is scheduled for April. The workshop was brought together people from various Christian communities for more than 50 years and is the only national gathering of its kind. Laity and clergy interested in ecumenical ministry are encouraged to attend. DETAILS

THE CONGREGATIONAL CARE MINISTRY SEMINARThursday, April 19th to Saturday, April 21st, Church of the Resurrection (13720 Roe Avenue, Leawood, KS 66224)This event is designed to train volunteers to become partners in ministry with pastors and staff to provide care for a congregation. Early-bird pricing of $159 for the seminar and $25 for the pre-conference is available through Thursday, March 8th. For more information, please visit the webpage www.cor.org/ccm-seminar. Contact Kathy Carter at kathy.carter@cor.org or 913-544-0272. REGISTER

ECUMENICAL ADVOCACY DAYSFriday, April 20th to Monday, April 23rd, Washington, D.C.This year’s Ecumenical Advocacy Days are coming soon in Washington, D.C. The UMC Board of Church and Society and other UM-related groups are sponsors. The theme is A World Uprooted: Responding to Migrants, Refugees, and Displaced People. DETAILS

UPDATED – POVERTY SUMMIT: THE MANY FACES OF POVERTYSaturday, April 21st, 9am to 3pm, Covenant Center (Kittanning First UMC, 301 North Jefferson Street, Kittanning, PA 16201)Registration is now open! To learn more about how to effectively be in ministry with the poor, bring a team from your church to this event. DETAILS AND REGISTER

COLLEGIATE MINISTRY TRAININGMonday, April 23rd to Thursday, April 26th, Nashville, TNThe General Board of Higher Education and Ministry (GBHEM) will host Trending Holy Currencies: Training for Annual Conference Leaders in Collegiate Ministry. The event is designed to provide resources and ongoing coaching for members of conference Boards of Higher Ed and Campus Ministry, collegiate ministers, and board members of local collegiate ministry programs. DETAILS

BISHOP’S DAY ON THE DISTRICT Wednesday, April 25th, Erie-Meadville District (Saegertown UMC, 7:30pm to 9:30pm) Thursday, April 26th, Pittsburgh District (Location TBD) Tuesday, May 15th, Kane District (Location TBD)

YOUTH LEADER SKILL DAYSaturday, April 28th, 9am to 3pm, Dutilh UMC (1270 Dutilh Road, Cranberry, Township, PA 16066)The Conference-wide event will include worship, keynotes, and breakout sessions on a variety of topics taught by our own WPAUMC youth leaders. Cost is $12 and includes lunch. Bring three or more leaders and cost is just $10 each. Continuing education credits are available for clergy. Registration ends Saturday, April 14th. DETAILS AND REGISTER

CREATING DISCIPLESHIP PATHWAYSSaturday, April 28th, Lewisburg, PAMike Schreiner and Ken Willard, authors of the book Stride, will be keynote speakers at Navigate: Creating Discipleship Pathways, a daylong conference. Groups from Western PA congregations are invited to attend. DETAILS

BE A COACH!The East Ohio and WPA conferences are co-sponsoring a coaching cohort for clergy and lay people interested in earning International Coaching Federation (ICF) certification as a ministry coach. Certification requires attendance at three training modules (May, September, and November 2018) and practice of coaching skills under guidance of a certified coach. The trainings will be held at Boardman UMC near Youngstown, OH. For more information, visit www.empowercoaches.com or contact Amy Wagner at Amy.Wagner@wpaumc.org.

PASTORAL TRANSITIONS SEMINARSaturday, May 5th, 9am to 3pmSave the date and mark your calendars for this seminar! Invitations will be sent to pastors in transition with details and location.

UMW GEARS UP FOR ASSEMBLYFriday, May 18th to Sunday, May 20th, Greater Columbus Convention Center (400 North High Street, Columbus, OH 43215)The Power of Bold is the theme for the 19th quadrennial Assembly of United Methodist Women. Registration is $330, which includes two healthy lunches. Registration closes Monday, April 9th. REGISTER

PASTORS’ ACADEMY 2018Monday, May 21st to Wednesday, May 23rd, Olmsted Manor (17 East Main Street, Ludlow, PA 16333)The annual Pastors’ Academy will feature Dr. Jennifer McBride and focus on Radical Discipleship, Public Witness, and Liturgical Politics: The Social and Political Implications of the Gospel. DETAILS AND REGISTER

UPDATED – ANNUAL CONFERENCE LEADERSHIP DAYWednesday, June 6th, 1pm to 5pm, Grove City College (100 Campus Drive, Grove City, PA 16127)Nancy Beach, who served 20 years as teaching pastor at Willow Creek Church and now is a leadership coach, will be the speaker for the Annual Conference Day of Preparation workshop. She will focus on building healthy teams. All Annual Conference members are encouraged to attend both leadership training and a Bible study planned for Wednesday evening. Save the date. Registration will be available within the Annual Conference registration. DETAILS

CONVERGENCE: WHERE FAITH AND SCIENCE MEETWednesday, June 23rd to Friday, July 1st, Randolph-Macon College (203 Caroline Street, Ashland, VA 23005)Convergence is a 9-day program that allows rising 10th, 11th, and 12th grade students to learn about the intersection of science and Christian faith. They will dive deeper into their religious beliefs, deeper into the study of science, and will meet other high school students and Randolph-Macon College student leaders with those same interests. There will be time in the classroom and outdoor experiences throughout the region. The cost to participate is only $100 for this 9-day program. Upon high school graduation, if a Convergence participant chooses to attend Randolph-Macon, they will receive a $1,000 annual scholarship for each year they participated in Convergence. If you would like to nominate a participant, fill out the nomination form HERE and the Convergence staff will contact your nominee with further information. The application form for participants is available HERE. For questions about the program, please email convergence@rmc.edu. LEARN MORE

YOUNG PREACHERS FESTIVALWednesday, June 27th to Thursday, June 28th, Church of the Resurrection (13720 Roe Avenue, Leawood, KS 66224)This event is designed to encourage and equip a new generation of preachers. DETAILS

UNSTOPPABLE WOMENFriday, July 6th to Sunday, July 8th, Olmsted Manor (17 East Main Street, Ludlow, PA 16333)The Unstoppable retreat for young women (high school to mid-20s) is coming this summer. The cost is just $25 because Unstoppable scholarships are available. Email Laramie (l.cowan@setonhill.edu) or Denise (dnstone24@gmail.com) for scholarship details. Also, visit the Unstoppable Facebook page at www.facebook.com/umwunstoppable/.

2018 WESLEY PILGRIMAGE IN ENGLANDMonday, July 9th to Thursday, July 19th, EnglandExplore places where the Wesley brothers lived and served on a 10-day immersion trip in Wesleyan missional leadership and a spiritual retreat. View an interactive map of the annual pilgrimage in England HERE, featuring videos of pilgrims visiting the places where John and Charles Wesley lived and served. REGISTER

YOUTH MISSION UTuesday, July 10th to Sunday, July 15th, California University of PA (250 University Avenue, California, PA 15419)Youth Mission u is for youth in grades 6 through 12. Registration will be open soon. DETAILS

UTH 4 MISSIONSMonday, July 16th to Friday, July 20th, Jumonville (887 Jumonville Road, Hopwood, PA 15445)A mission event for youth groups, Uth 4 Missions will provide both work sites and outreach sites. Cost is $220 per person. Registration will open this spring.

GLOBAL YOUNG PEOPLE’S CONVOCATION (GYPC) 2018Wednesday, July 18th to Sunday, July 22nd, Indaba Hotel and Conference Center (Johannesburg, South Africa) Join hundreds of United Methodist young people and adult workers from around the world. GYPC is a time for worship, celebration, and meaningful conversations about young people and their role in the global church. Voting and non-voting delegates may register until Saturday, March 31st. REGISTER

TAIZÉ PILGRIMAGEFriday, July 20th to Monday, July 30th, Taizé, FranceWPAUMC young adults (ages 17 to 30) are invited to join in a life-changing pilgrimage to Taizé, France. DETAILS

WILDERNESS CANOE TRIPSSunday, July 22nd to Tuesday, July 31st and Monday, July 30th to Wednesday, August 8th Our Conference Camping Ministry is sponsoring two week-long wilderness canoe trips this summer to Ontario’s Algonquin Provincial Park. Participants enjoy a week of peace and solitude in a rugged and beautiful setting of lakes, rivers, and forests. Lakeside campsites provide the setting for campfires and learning about God, His creation, and what it means to live out the life of discipleship together. Cost is $450 for adults and $420 for youth ages 15 to 17. This includes transportation as well as canoeing and camping equipment. Previous canoeing and camping experience is helpful, but not necessary. Adults 19 and older must have a passport. The first trip is led by Revs. Scott Hamley, Craig Lindahl, and Doug Burns. The second trip is led by Rev. Dave Coul, Rev. Drew Myers, and Lindsey Myers. Registration is through the Conference website at www.wpaumc.org/camping. For questions, please contact Scott Hamley at 724-859-6745 or enonvalleyinc@hotmail.com.

6 TH ANNUAL FAITH NIGHT Friday, July 27th, 7:05pm, PNC Park (115 Federal Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15212)Enjoy discounted tickets for the Pirates-Mets game and stay after the game to hear Manager Clint Hurdle and your favorite Pirate players and coaches share their personal experiences with how their faith has impacted their lives and their careers in baseball specifically. Since Faith Night is being held on a Friday for the first time, we expect the event to be more popular than ever! Therefore, it is highly recommended to secure seats with a deposit. Groups of 15 or more can secure a block of seats with a deposit and then will have until Monday, June 11th to give your final ticket count and pay the balance. Contact Chad Glover at chad.glover@pirates.com or 412-325-4756.

Don’t forget! You can now check a running list of WPA VIM trip opportunities online anytime at www.wpaumc.org/opportunities. Also, opportunities to give/help can be found at UMCOR.

WPAUMC VOLUNTEERS IN MISSIONUnited Methodists voluntarily serving people outside the church – local, regionally, nationally, or internationally.

What teams can I join? www.wpaumc.org/opportunitiesHow do I learn about leading a team? www.wpaumc.org/VIMtrainingOnce we have a team planned, what do we do?

Register your team at www.wpaumc.org/registerVIMteamsGet VIM insurance at www.umvimnej.org

Once our team returns, what do I do? www.wpaumc.org/missionreportWhere can I find local church resources?

www.wpaumc.org/localchurchmissionsHow do I get involved in Disaster Response?

Take UMCOR training at www.wpaumc.org/disasterresponseMake sure your local church has a local disaster planVolunteer at Eastbrook Mission Barn or one of its satellites

What if there is a disaster in my church’s community?Local pastor reports damage to church and with their community to their District SuperintendentLocal pastor reports damage to church and with their community to Conference Disaster Response Coordinator, Rev. Calvin Cook at 814-442-5899

MISSIONSHIELD VIM INSURANCE OFFEREDAs health care laws change and deductibles grow, it is important to have coverage for volunteer teams serving in the U.S. as well as abroad. This Northeastern Jurisdiction UMVIM board has worked with Seven Corners to make policies available for all VIM teams. Get forms and details at www.umvimnej.org/mission-insurance.

2017 CONFERENCE VIM TEAMSCHECK OUT THESE WAYS TO SERVE IN WESTERN PA

UM A.R.M.Y – www.ne.umarmy.orgYour church can be a youth work camp as youth and chaperones partner with UM A.R.M.Y to love your neighbors.

EASTBROOK MISSION BARN – www.wpaumc.org/missionbarn

UPDATESSee what’s happening at the Eastbrook Mission Barn in their BLOG.Check out the latest news from the Eastbrook Mission Barn in their WINTER NEWSLETTER.

CLEANING BUCKET UPDATEIf you, your congregation, or your church have been collecting silicone packets to be placed in UMCOR cleaning buckets, please note that UMCOR is no longer accepting donated packets. Katie Peterson of the Eastbrook Mission Barn reports that UMCOR will now purchase packets to ensure they are the needed size and type.

MISSION BARN VEHICLEThe Eastbrook Mission Barn had to buy a truck. The old one gave out several weeks ago during the busy period of receiving and moving out flood relief materials. Efforts to secure a donated vehicle failed. Monetary donations to help offset the cost would be welcome. Visit www.eastbrookmissionbarn.org/.