Page 6 Burns Connection
Happy Birthday
FBUMC Mission Statement: The mission of Francis Burns United
Methodist Church is to glorify God, to spread the Good News of
Jesus Christ and to make Christian disciples through worship and
praise, nurture, outreach and witness.
FBUMC Vision Statement: The vision of Francis Burns United
Methodist Church is to be in covenant with God and to connect
with God's people through ministries that meet human needs.
01 Jaila Donnielle Evans
O2 Johnnie Johnson
03 Harold Murray, Jr.
03 Idi-Imiri Murray
04 Jaylin Williams
05 Reginald Mack
05 Brandi Guinyard
05 Roz Coleman
06 Kailey Young
07 Chantell Payne
08 Adrienne Lynn
08 Minnie Johnson
08 Emma J. Martin
11 Willie Howard
11 Eric Jeffries
12 Fred Brandyburg
13 Preston Cobb
14 Shania C. Sprouts
15 Shane Johnson
17 Michael Scott
19 Breonna Truesdale-
Richardson
20 Teresa Holland
20 Brandi Bell
20 Willie Lakin
21 Dominick Bailey
21 Julius Cave
21 Doris McNair
23 Sharon Wilson
23 Paul L. Jenkins
23 Ahisha Gunn
23 Shiitra Praylow
24 Bryan Brunson
24 D’Rell Coe
27 Xavier Howell
27 Tesh Johnson
27 Kimberly Mikell
28 Laura Gary
28 Bernetta Cooper
28 Alexandria White
28 Dinease Jones
5 February - Patrick and Zina Hudson
12 February – Earl and Ava Doby
17 February - Odell and Linda Kennedy
Happy Anniversary
To update your birthday or anniversary information,
contact Inez Benjamin at 736-1008 or
email [email protected]
Life is not about waiting for the storm to end.
Life is about learning to dance in the rain.
On The Light Side
“UMW” from page 3
The Global Dreamers Project, Founder Linda Luna
(Los Angeles, CA) - TGDP is a U.S. based global
organization that provides a diverse range of
opportunities designed to empower the lives and
propel the dreams of disadvantaged youth
throughout the world. With a fund-raising format,
the foundation creates programs and resources
that support this vision and mission. Programs and
resources will focus on mentorship, education,
careers, sports, life skills and leadership. Our
primary goal is to see the youth of our next global
generation live out their dreams and God-given
purpose.
Along with the United Methodist Women, Rhonda
and Sharee will coordinate fundraising activities in
the coming months that will directly impact the kids
lives. As the twins anticipated their return to the
'Motherland', they have tentatively outlined one
day with the kids that will consist of a tour to
Robben Island, Table Mountain, lunch at a
restaurant on the V&A Wharf, a 'brown bag' of
grocery, and a book bag full of school & art
supplies, and some basic clothing. Rhonda and
Sharee are also seeking to appeal to area youths
(including FB Youth Ministry) to become pen pals
with the kids from South Africa so that they can
teach the South African kids the gospel and in the
not too distant future, a travel exchange between
youths in the two countries.
Next meeting: A Call to Prayer and Self-Denial with
Grace UMC; hosted by Francis Burns UMC on Feb.
15 at 4PM in the fellowship hall.
Save the date: Women's Weekend- March 14 and
15. All women invited to attend and participate.
February 2015 Volume 2015 Issue 2
Burns Connection
Francis Burns UMC
5616 Farrow Rd.
Columbia, SC 29203
(803) 754-1760
Rev. Ernest C. Etheredge
Pastor
Francis Burns Members Attend Columbia District’s
Bishop’s Road Show
On January 24th the Columbia District of the South
Carolina Annual Conference of the United Methodist
Church hosted the 10th round of the Bishop’s Road Show.
Bishop Jonathan Holston and his team have planned
visits to all 12 Districts of the South Carolina Annual
Conference. The purpose of these gatherings is to afford
members of the laity an opportunity to meet and greet
the Bishop in a more relaxed environment. It also serves
as a means for Bishop Holston to emphasize the
importance of team work and the fact that each member
of the team is important.
10 members of the Francis Burns family braved the
chilly, damp morning to make their way to Shandon UMC
for the 9:00-2:00 session. Those persons were: Nettie
Green, Ollie Benners, Carol Singletary, Harold Murray,
Carrie Murray, Melagne Yed, Jean-Michee Yed, Delaine
Frierson, Beverly Frierson and Nancy Bradshaw.
Some of the points Bishop Holston emphasized during his
presentations included: 1) We must work on becoming
disciples God can use. 2) The key word is “together”: We
worship together; we are the church together; we are all
in the faith together. 3) What are we going to do
together? 4) The question is asked, “Can we trust each
other? God wants us to trust Him and learn to trust each
other more. 5) We are in conflict because we aren’t in
relationship. 6) We were not called to be members, we
were called to be disciples and to make disciples. 7) We
must all realize that the only right way is God’s way. 8)
What is it that God is calling you to do? What is it that
our church community needs us to do? 9) Remember, “I
(We) can do all things (together) through Christ who
strengthens me (us.)
Each church group present was then given 15 minutes to
come up with a plan that they would carry out in the next
3-6 months. Keep your eyes and ears open to see and
hear what our group came up with.
Tuesday
February 17
6:30 PM
Wednesday,
February 18
6 PM
Begins Wednesday,
February 25
12:00 noon to 1:15 PM
Contact Connie Glenn
803 206-6627)
for more information
Church Women United of Columbia Annual World Day of Prayer
Friday, March 6
10:30 A.M. Refreshments
11:00 A.M. Celebration
Emphasis: Women of the Bahamas
Scripture: Jesus asked His Disciples: “Do you
Understand What I have Done for You?”
John 13:1-17
Grace United Methodist Church
410 Harbison Blvd
Columbia, SC 29212
February 8th
Page 2 Burns Connection
Lectionary February 2015
Fourth Sunday after the Epiphany
February 1, Deuteronomy 18:15-20, Psalm 111, 1
Corinthians 8:1-13. Mark 1:21-28
Fifth Sunday after the Epiphany
February 8, Isaiah 40:21-31, Psalm 147:1-11, 20c, 1
Corinthians 9:16-23, Mark 1:29-39
Last Sunday after Epiphany, Transfiguration Sunday
February 15, 2 Kings 2:1-12, Psalm 50:1-6, 2
Corinthians 4:3-6, Mark 9:2-9
First Sunday in Lent
February 22, Genesis 9:8-17, Psalm 25:1-10, 1 Peter
2014 Budget Information
Administrative $295,992.18 Council on Ministries $123,763.00 Committee on Finance $ 250.00 Board of Trustees $157,400.00 Total 2014 Budget $577,405.18 Weekly Amount Needed $11,103.95 Monthly Amount Needed $48,117.10 Amount Received in December $47,999.99 Thank You
United Methodist Men Update
Meeting February 14 2015
8:30 AM
Fellowship Hall
Meet the Choir
Name: Stephen L. Jamison
Choir Section: Tenor
Affiliations: American Legion Riders member and Air Force veteran Hobbies/Interests: Enjoys singing,
motorcycle riding, and working in the yard
Perhaps! The key factor in the
growth and development of the
local church is centered on its
spirituality. The spiritual
foundation of the church is our
faith and the prayer life of the
congregation. The leadership and
members must be actively
involved in the prayer life of the
church.
James Banks wrote these words: “True Praise – praise
with an active faith that is greater than only emotion –
is a daring thing. It challenges us to leave old paths of
a human heart behind and reach for something beyond
ourselves, giving ourselves up to God. “(Taken from
Discovery Series: Let’s Pray: Talking to God with the
words of the Bible).
In James 5:16, we find these words: Therefore confess
your sins to one another and pray for one another, so
that you may be healed. The prayer of the righteous is
powerful and effective.
The words we submit to God are more important than
we realize. As the people of God, we must remember
to stay in relationship with God through the prayer life
we live.
Grace and Peace
Ernest C. Etheredge
Remember In Your Prayers
“Pray without ceasing.” 1 Thessalonians 5:17. “ The
prayer of faith will save the sick, and the Lord will
raise him up. ...The effective, fervent prayer of a
righteous man avails much.” James 5:15, 16.
Mr. Willie Howard ● Mrs. Martha Hayes (gradmother of Gwen
Etheredge)● Mr. Joey (son of Trudie Reed) ●Mr. Corey Spann
(son in law of Cephus and Pam Thomas) ● Ms. Ruby Hendrix
(sister of Bettye Marshall Augustus) ● Mr. Hosea Henry (step
-father of Shemega Tyson and brother in law of Virginia
Goodman) ● Mr. James Tony Kennedy, Sr. (brother of
Valerie Kennedy-Robinson) ● Mr. James Mixon (son of
Sammie and Girlene Mixon ● Mr. John Myers (father of Sam
Myers) ● Rev. Calvin Washington ● Mrs. Gertrude Kinney
(mother of Kenneth Kinney) Ms. Margaret Brown (aunt of
Kenneth Kinney) ●Ms. Patricia Squire (sister of Bernice
Kinney) ●Bishop Theodore and Mrs. Nan Myers ● Mrs. Ella
Mae Eaddy (mother of Karone Johnson)● Rev. Dr. Sheila
Elliott
Page 5 Burns Connection
way people learn about the importance of moral
character. On Martin Luther King Day, some of the
youth helped feed the homeless. We baked cakes and
served them to the homeless during lunch at
Washington Street UMC's Soup Cellar. This experience
showed me how much I am truly blessed. I sometimes
complain because I do not get everything that I want,
but my parents are able to provide the basic needs of
life and much more.
When we served the homeless it did not matter what
the color of their skin was or if they were a girl or a
boy. Our goal was to help people who were in need of
help. Proverbs 21:13 states "He who shuts his ears to
the cries of the poor will be ignored in his own time of
need." One day I may need help, and I do not want to
be denied assistance because I was bitter to someone
else's need. I always try to be nice and help people
even if they are mean to me, because I never know
when I am going to need their help. John 15:12
states, "This is my commandment, that you love one
another as I have loved you...." We should treat all
people, even the those we do not know, how God treats
us. God does not treat us mean and ugly. He loves and
cares about us and only wants the very best for us. For
some people it is going to be hard to treat people the
way God treats us. But we have to remember that we
knowingly and sometimes unknowingly dishonor God
and commit sin almost everyday. In spite of that, God
finds a way to forgive us. So if God can do it, then we
can too. We should all follow the example of Dr. King to
show God's love for our neighbor as God first loved us.
-Rachel Forrest
Dr. Martin Luther King,
Jr. proudly stood for his
values and principles and
never let anyone steer
him away from what he
believed. Dr. King
dreamed of a nation for
his children where "they
would be judged not by
the color of their skin but
by the content of their character." Dr. King wanted
equality for all Americans and for them to share equal
inalienable rights.
In 1961, Dr. King spoke at Lincoln University and stated
in his speech, "that each individual had certain basic
rights that are neither conferred by nor derived from the
state. The American dream reminds us that every man is
heir to the legacy of worthiness." I completely agree with
Dr. King and believe everybody has the right to be who
they want to be and not be judged because of it. It is
wrong to see people for just their color because there's
so much more to a person besides the color of their skin.
It's sad to see that more than 50 years later we still have
some of the same problems that Dr. King had during his
era.
Dr. King believed in the importance of faith and moral
character. He often spoke of self- improvement and self-
help. He spoke against crime and disorderly conduct and
believed that churches and other faith-based associations
were necessary for the revival of the American culture. I
think church is a good foundation for the building of
moral character, but it is not and should not be the only
Missions Ministry has been encouraged and inspired by your strong, unwavering support of Missions
Programs and activities over the years. The Missions Ministry solicits your continued prayers and support of our
homeless students in Richland School Districts One and Two. Please keep in mind that Missions Ministry has
adopted this outreach as a permanent, year-round effort. Below is a 2013- 2014 report from Richland District
Two of 523 Students identified as homeless during the 2013-14 school year
Items requested by Richland One include: Book bags - all levels, Scientific calculators, Mechanical pencils,
Notebook paper - college and wide ruled, 1 1/2 and 2 inch binders, Crayons - 24 pack, Black pens, Post -it
notes, Index Cards
Items requested by Richland Two include: gloves, hats, shampoo and conditioner, detergent, deodorant, body
wash, soap, and under garments.
School Level Child Development Centers
Elementary School
Middle School High School Unaccompanied Youth
2013-14 10 (1%) 215 (41%) 102 (19%) 196 (37%) 122 (23%)
2012-13 8 (1%) 257 (46%) 119 (21%) 170 (31%) 82 (14%)
Nighttime Residence
Doubled Up Hotel Shelter Unsheltered/Substandard
2013-14 382 (73%) 80 (15%) 38 (7%) 14 (2%)
2012-13 388 (70%) 73 (13%) 46 (8%) 23 (4%)
Page 4 Burns Connection
Health Notes February2015
The Health & Welfare Ministry’s/Healthy Eating And Living in the Spirit (H.E.A.L.S) vision for the
Francis Burns church family is to become A
Healthier Congregation
Heart Health- Spotlight on Heart Disease
It’s not just a man’s disease. 1 in 3 women die of heart
disease or stoke. But it can be prevented. Make a
change. Know your numbers, eat healthy,
exercise and make a play date for some fun and
relaxation.
Hungry for better health? Crack open a nut…I love
nuts. So here is the truth about the salty snack. Not
all salty snacks are created equal. Eating one and a
half ounces per day of almonds, pecans, or walnuts
might actually reduce your risk to heart disease, says
the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. That’s provided
they’re part of a low-fat, low-cholesterol diet. Nuts
boast heart-healthy fats, fiber, and key vitamins and
minerals. But they do contain a fair number of calories,
too. Keep portions in check with this guide to healthful
servings.
Almond: 23 nuts. Rich in vitamin E and
magnesium, almonds may help control cholesterol and
blood sugar for hours.
Pecans: 19 halves. The antioxidants their mellow
sweet flesh seem to reduce LDL or “bad” cholesterol.
Pistachios:49 nuts. These brightly colored nuts
are bursting with potassium and vitamin K. The fact
that pistachios are served in shells makes them more
difficult to overeat. Plus, they may lower your blood
pressure.
Walnuts:14 halves. A part of the heart-healthy
Mediterranean diet, walnuts stand as an excellent
source of alpha-linoleic acid. That’s the plant-based
version of the omega-3 fatty acids in fish. Go nuts and
happy eating.
Information obtained from National Go Red Foundation and STRIVE
newsletter for Healthy Living
National Wear Red Day is Friday, February 6,
2015. All women wanting to participate in Go Red
Sunday are asked to wear red Sunday, February
22nd during the morning worship services.
Monthly Meeting: Our next meeting is scheduled
for Monday, February 16th at 6 pm. Everyone desiring
to embrace a healthier lifestyle are invited to join this
on-going health ministry.
Free monthly blood pressure screenings w ill be
available the 4th Sunday immediately after worship
services in the Fellowship Hall.ealHHhh
Aim for Wholeness,
Health & Welfare Ministry/H.E.A.L.S.
Status And Role Of Women
By Teresa Holland
The beauty of a woman
isn't in the clothes she wears,
The figure that she carries,
or the way she combs her hair.
The beauty of a woman
must be seen from in her eyes;
Because that's the doorway to her heart,
the place where love resides.
The beauty of a woman
isn't in a facial mole;
But true beauty in a woman,
is reflected by her soul.
It's the caring that she cares to give,
the passion that she shows;
And the beauty of a woman
with passing years only grows
One March 22, 2015, the Status and Role we will host
a special service entitled You Are A Queen Sunday. We
will invite other women who have come out of Francis
Burns that have made a name for themselves,
successful in their professions, still in school, etc. to
come back home just to show our young ladies that
the church has released a lot of powerful, wonderful,
Godly women in the world as an example of what they
can be. Please provide the name and contact
information to Teresa Holland by February 20, 2015,
[email protected] so we can send a special
invitation to these women. Thanks for any help you
can provide.
Page 3 Burns Connection
Christian Education Corner
God and the Gaps - Melagne Yed
There is a gap in our knowledge of God; there is also a
gap in our understanding of the purposes of God; and,
thirdly, there is a Gap when his presence is suppressed by
our preoccupation.
Presence suppressed by Preoccupation
Acts 17:24-28. The God who made the world and
everything in it is the Lord of heaven and earth and does
not live in temples built by hands. And he is not served by
human hands, as if he needed anything, because he
himself gives all men life and breath and everything else.
From one man he made every nation of men, that they
should inhabit the whole earth; and he determined the
times set for them and the exact places where they
should live. God did this so that men would seek him and
perhaps reach out for him and find him, though he is not
far from each one of us. For in him we live and move and
have our being.
The Apostle Paul tells us here that in the natural
framework of existence, even our being and movement
occur because God pervades the very reality in which we
live. He made each of us to dwell in a certain land by
design. He raised you in America and you are not far from
him. He raised me in the Ivory Coast and I was not far
from him. From Africa, from the Americas, from Asia,
from Australia, from Europe we hear stories, again and
again, of men and women raising their countenance to cry
out and finding out that God has been nearer to them
than they have ever realized.
But his presence is suppressed by preoccupation. English
Baptist Preacher, F.W. Boreham says that there has been
two basic heresies right from the beginning of human
existence. First is the heresy of there-ness, and second is
the heresy of here-ness. The heresy of there-ness,
Boreham says, comes from Adam. God is out there but
not here; so Adam hid from him. The heresy of here-ness,
he continues, comes from Cain. God is here but not out
there; so Cain tries to go out from the presence of the
Lord. But David, as a friend of God, finds out that there is
no place where God’s presence is not: “Where can I go
from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence? …
even the darkness will not be dark to you; the night will
shine like the day, for darkness is as light to you.”
Nebuchadnezzar, as an enemy of God, comes to the same
conclusion when he realizes that there is an unexpected
fourth personage right in the midst of the flames.
God’s presence is nearer to you than you can ever
imagine. From the very womb where he lays you to the
ethnicity he gives you, he tells you: “I am not far from
you”. But our busy-ness and obstinacy to go in a certain
direction often provoke us either to doubt or ignore his
presence, and perhaps to formulate this prayer: “Your
ways mystify me, oh Lord. In some journeys I feel you all
the way without a doubt. But sometimes you seem to
vanish halfway along the journey. And other times you
appear to me at the very last moment. And you
know Lord, sometimes I actually fear that you’ll let
me go over the edge.” And perhaps God would say
in response: “You are very unique my child. And I
will help you learn of me with that uniqueness in
mind. You see, if I took everybody all the way,
where is the room for their faith? If I took everybody
more than half the way, where is the room for their
love? If I did not let you at times, feeling even
abandoned, where is the room for my cross? You are
not what you will someday be. I AM WHO I AM. And
I know how to get you from who you are to who I
am. If you do not understand this, where is your
hope?”
The day will come when, from strength to strength
and from glory to glory, we will, not only have the
knowledge, not only understand the purposes, but
also understand the methods of God.
To be continued…
United Methodist Women
Officer Induction and Presentation
The Francis Burns United Methodist Women
inducted its new slate of officers for 2015 on
Sunday, January 18. Debra Schooler was present
to lead the induction ceremony and gave out a
dozen miniature shepherd staffs as a reminder to
lead in their designated positions.
The 2015 officer slate are:President- Gladys Morgan
Bell, V. President- Janice E. Bogan , Secretary-
Carrie Murray, Treasurer- Maeward Belk, Historian-
Girlene Mixon*, Publicity/PR/Communication-
Rhonda & Sharee Washington, Spiritual Growth-
Betty Mack, Membership N&O- Ollie Benners,
Social Action- Nettie Green, Education - Rebecca W.
Eleazer, Committee on Nominations, Class of 2015-
Charlotte Johnson Class of 2015- Sheila
Humphrey Class of 2016- Annie Gathers , Class of
2017- Diane James Class of 2017- Pam Thomas.
*until replacement elected
At the conclusion of the evening, Rhonda and
Sharee Washington shared a brief presentation of
their October South Africa trip and their forthcoming
return in November 2015. During their initial trip
they were able to volunteer and film some local kids
from impoverished communities. These kids
participate in an outreach center that assists them
with their academics and provides surfing as
recreation. Rhonda and Sharee will be joining the
foundation board set up by one of the volunteers to
further help the kids in the Cape Town townships of
Capricorn and Sea Winds. Here is an excerpt of the
organization and it's mission:
“See “UMW” page 6
Page 4 Burns Connection
Health Notes February2015
The Health & Welfare Ministry’s/Healthy Eating And Living in the Spirit (H.E.A.L.S) vision for the
Francis Burns church family is to become A
Healthier Congregation
Heart Health- Spotlight on Heart Disease
It’s not just a man’s disease. 1 in 3 women die of heart
disease or stoke. But it can be prevented. Make a
change. Know your numbers, eat healthy,
exercise and make a play date for some fun and
relaxation.
Hungry for better health? Crack open a nut…I love
nuts. So here is the truth about the salty snack. Not
all salty snacks are created equal. Eating one and a
half ounces per day of almonds, pecans, or walnuts
might actually reduce your risk to heart disease, says
the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. That’s provided
they’re part of a low-fat, low-cholesterol diet. Nuts
boast heart-healthy fats, fiber, and key vitamins and
minerals. But they do contain a fair number of calories,
too. Keep portions in check with this guide to healthful
servings.
Almond: 23 nuts. Rich in vitamin E and
magnesium, almonds may help control cholesterol and
blood sugar for hours.
Pecans: 19 halves. The antioxidants their mellow
sweet flesh seem to reduce LDL or “bad” cholesterol.
Pistachios:49 nuts. These brightly colored nuts
are bursting with potassium and vitamin K. The fact
that pistachios are served in shells makes them more
difficult to overeat. Plus, they may lower your blood
pressure.
Walnuts:14 halves. A part of the heart-healthy
Mediterranean diet, walnuts stand as an excellent
source of alpha-linoleic acid. That’s the plant-based
version of the omega-3 fatty acids in fish. Go nuts and
happy eating.
Information obtained from National Go Red Foundation and STRIVE
newsletter for Healthy Living
National Wear Red Day is Friday, February 6,
2015. All women wanting to participate in Go Red
Sunday are asked to wear red Sunday, February
22nd during the morning worship services.
Monthly Meeting: Our next meeting is scheduled
for Monday, February 16th at 6 pm. Everyone desiring
to embrace a healthier lifestyle are invited to join this
on-going health ministry.
Free monthly blood pressure screenings w ill be
available the 4th Sunday immediately after worship
services in the Fellowship Hall.ealHHhh
Aim for Wholeness,
Health & Welfare Ministry/H.E.A.L.S.
Status And Role Of Women
By Teresa Holland
The beauty of a woman
isn't in the clothes she wears,
The figure that she carries,
or the way she combs her hair.
The beauty of a woman
must be seen from in her eyes;
Because that's the doorway to her heart,
the place where love resides.
The beauty of a woman
isn't in a facial mole;
But true beauty in a woman,
is reflected by her soul.
It's the caring that she cares to give,
the passion that she shows;
And the beauty of a woman
with passing years only grows
One March 22, 2015, the Status and Role we will host
a special service entitled You Are A Queen Sunday. We
will invite other women who have come out of Francis
Burns that have made a name for themselves,
successful in their professions, still in school, etc. to
come back home just to show our young ladies that
the church has released a lot of powerful, wonderful,
Godly women in the world as an example of what they
can be. Please provide the name and contact
information to Teresa Holland by February 20, 2015,
[email protected] so we can send a special
invitation to these women. Thanks for any help you
can provide.
Page 3 Burns Connection
Christian Education Corner
God and the Gaps - Melagne Yed
There is a gap in our knowledge of God; there is also a
gap in our understanding of the purposes of God; and,
thirdly, there is a Gap when his presence is suppressed by
our preoccupation.
Presence suppressed by Preoccupation
Acts 17:24-28. The God who made the world and
everything in it is the Lord of heaven and earth and does
not live in temples built by hands. And he is not served by
human hands, as if he needed anything, because he
himself gives all men life and breath and everything else.
From one man he made every nation of men, that they
should inhabit the whole earth; and he determined the
times set for them and the exact places where they
should live. God did this so that men would seek him and
perhaps reach out for him and find him, though he is not
far from each one of us. For in him we live and move and
have our being.
The Apostle Paul tells us here that in the natural
framework of existence, even our being and movement
occur because God pervades the very reality in which we
live. He made each of us to dwell in a certain land by
design. He raised you in America and you are not far from
him. He raised me in the Ivory Coast and I was not far
from him. From Africa, from the Americas, from Asia,
from Australia, from Europe we hear stories, again and
again, of men and women raising their countenance to cry
out and finding out that God has been nearer to them
than they have ever realized.
But his presence is suppressed by preoccupation. English
Baptist Preacher, F.W. Boreham says that there has been
two basic heresies right from the beginning of human
existence. First is the heresy of there-ness, and second is
the heresy of here-ness. The heresy of there-ness,
Boreham says, comes from Adam. God is out there but
not here; so Adam hid from him. The heresy of here-ness,
he continues, comes from Cain. God is here but not out
there; so Cain tries to go out from the presence of the
Lord. But David, as a friend of God, finds out that there is
no place where God’s presence is not: “Where can I go
from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence? …
even the darkness will not be dark to you; the night will
shine like the day, for darkness is as light to you.”
Nebuchadnezzar, as an enemy of God, comes to the same
conclusion when he realizes that there is an unexpected
fourth personage right in the midst of the flames.
God’s presence is nearer to you than you can ever
imagine. From the very womb where he lays you to the
ethnicity he gives you, he tells you: “I am not far from
you”. But our busy-ness and obstinacy to go in a certain
direction often provoke us either to doubt or ignore his
presence, and perhaps to formulate this prayer: “Your
ways mystify me, oh Lord. In some journeys I feel you all
the way without a doubt. But sometimes you seem to
vanish halfway along the journey. And other times you
appear to me at the very last moment. And you
know Lord, sometimes I actually fear that you’ll let
me go over the edge.” And perhaps God would say
in response: “You are very unique my child. And I
will help you learn of me with that uniqueness in
mind. You see, if I took everybody all the way,
where is the room for their faith? If I took everybody
more than half the way, where is the room for their
love? If I did not let you at times, feeling even
abandoned, where is the room for my cross? You are
not what you will someday be. I AM WHO I AM. And
I know how to get you from who you are to who I
am. If you do not understand this, where is your
hope?”
The day will come when, from strength to strength
and from glory to glory, we will, not only have the
knowledge, not only understand the purposes, but
also understand the methods of God.
To be continued…
United Methodist Women
Officer Induction and Presentation
The Francis Burns United Methodist Women
inducted its new slate of officers for 2015 on
Sunday, January 18. Debra Schooler was present
to lead the induction ceremony and gave out a
dozen miniature shepherd staffs as a reminder to
lead in their designated positions.
The 2015 officer slate are:President- Gladys Morgan
Bell, V. President- Janice E. Bogan , Secretary-
Carrie Murray, Treasurer- Maeward Belk, Historian-
Girlene Mixon*, Publicity/PR/Communication-
Rhonda & Sharee Washington, Spiritual Growth-
Betty Mack, Membership N&O- Ollie Benners,
Social Action- Nettie Green, Education - Rebecca W.
Eleazer, Committee on Nominations, Class of 2015-
Charlotte Johnson Class of 2015- Sheila
Humphrey Class of 2016- Annie Gathers , Class of
2017- Diane James Class of 2017- Pam Thomas.
*until replacement elected
At the conclusion of the evening, Rhonda and
Sharee Washington shared a brief presentation of
their October South Africa trip and their forthcoming
return in November 2015. During their initial trip
they were able to volunteer and film some local kids
from impoverished communities. These kids
participate in an outreach center that assists them
with their academics and provides surfing as
recreation. Rhonda and Sharee will be joining the
foundation board set up by one of the volunteers to
further help the kids in the Cape Town townships of
Capricorn and Sea Winds. Here is an excerpt of the
organization and it's mission:
“See “UMW” page 6
Page 2 Burns Connection
Lectionary February 2015
Fourth Sunday after the Epiphany
February 1, Deuteronomy 18:15-20, Psalm 111, 1
Corinthians 8:1-13. Mark 1:21-28
Fifth Sunday after the Epiphany
February 8, Isaiah 40:21-31, Psalm 147:1-11, 20c, 1
Corinthians 9:16-23, Mark 1:29-39
Last Sunday after Epiphany, Transfiguration Sunday
February 15, 2 Kings 2:1-12, Psalm 50:1-6, 2
Corinthians 4:3-6, Mark 9:2-9
First Sunday in Lent
February 22, Genesis 9:8-17, Psalm 25:1-10, 1 Peter
2014 Budget Information
Administrative $295,992.18 Council on Ministries $123,763.00 Committee on Finance $ 250.00 Board of Trustees $157,400.00 Total 2014 Budget $577,405.18 Weekly Amount Needed $11,103.95 Monthly Amount Needed $48,117.10 Amount Received in December $47,999.99 Thank You
United Methodist Men Update
Meeting February 14 2015
8:30 AM
Fellowship Hall
Meet the Choir
Name: Stephen L. Jamison
Choir Section: Tenor
Affiliations: American Legion Riders member and Air Force veteran Hobbies/Interests: Enjoys singing,
motorcycle riding, and working in the yard
Perhaps! The key factor in the
growth and development of the
local church is centered on its
spirituality. The spiritual
foundation of the church is our
faith and the prayer life of the
congregation. The leadership and
members must be actively
involved in the prayer life of the
church.
James Banks wrote these words: “True Praise – praise
with an active faith that is greater than only emotion –
is a daring thing. It challenges us to leave old paths of
a human heart behind and reach for something beyond
ourselves, giving ourselves up to God. “(Taken from
Discovery Series: Let’s Pray: Talking to God with the
words of the Bible).
In James 5:16, we find these words: Therefore confess
your sins to one another and pray for one another, so
that you may be healed. The prayer of the righteous is
powerful and effective.
The words we submit to God are more important than
we realize. As the people of God, we must remember
to stay in relationship with God through the prayer life
we live.
Grace and Peace
Ernest C. Etheredge
Remember In Your Prayers
“Pray without ceasing.” 1 Thessalonians 5:17. “ The
prayer of faith will save the sick, and the Lord will
raise him up. ...The effective, fervent prayer of a
righteous man avails much.” James 5:15, 16.
Mr. Willie Howard ● Mrs. Martha Hayes (gradmother of Gwen
Etheredge)● Mr. Joey (son of Trudie Reed) ●Mr. Corey Spann
(son in law of Cephus and Pam Thomas) ● Ms. Ruby Hendrix
(sister of Bettye Marshall Augustus) ● Mr. Hosea Henry (step
-father of Shemega Tyson and brother in law of Virginia
Goodman) ● Mr. James Tony Kennedy, Sr. (brother of
Valerie Kennedy-Robinson) ● Mr. James Mixon (son of
Sammie and Girlene Mixon ● Mr. John Myers (father of Sam
Myers) ● Rev. Calvin Washington ● Mrs. Gertrude Kinney
(mother of Kenneth Kinney) Ms. Margaret Brown (aunt of
Kenneth Kinney) ●Ms. Patricia Squire (sister of Bernice
Kinney) ●Bishop Theodore and Mrs. Nan Myers ● Mrs. Ella
Mae Eaddy (mother of Karone Johnson)● Rev. Dr. Sheila
Elliott
Page 5 Burns Connection
way people learn about the importance of moral
character. On Martin Luther King Day, some of the
youth helped feed the homeless. We baked cakes and
served them to the homeless during lunch at
Washington Street UMC's Soup Cellar. This experience
showed me how much I am truly blessed. I sometimes
complain because I do not get everything that I want,
but my parents are able to provide the basic needs of
life and much more.
When we served the homeless it did not matter what
the color of their skin was or if they were a girl or a
boy. Our goal was to help people who were in need of
help. Proverbs 21:13 states "He who shuts his ears to
the cries of the poor will be ignored in his own time of
need." One day I may need help, and I do not want to
be denied assistance because I was bitter to someone
else's need. I always try to be nice and help people
even if they are mean to me, because I never know
when I am going to need their help. John 15:12
states, "This is my commandment, that you love one
another as I have loved you...." We should treat all
people, even the those we do not know, how God treats
us. God does not treat us mean and ugly. He loves and
cares about us and only wants the very best for us. For
some people it is going to be hard to treat people the
way God treats us. But we have to remember that we
knowingly and sometimes unknowingly dishonor God
and commit sin almost everyday. In spite of that, God
finds a way to forgive us. So if God can do it, then we
can too. We should all follow the example of Dr. King to
show God's love for our neighbor as God first loved us.
-Rachel Forrest
Dr. Martin Luther King,
Jr. proudly stood for his
values and principles and
never let anyone steer
him away from what he
believed. Dr. King
dreamed of a nation for
his children where "they
would be judged not by
the color of their skin but
by the content of their character." Dr. King wanted
equality for all Americans and for them to share equal
inalienable rights.
In 1961, Dr. King spoke at Lincoln University and stated
in his speech, "that each individual had certain basic
rights that are neither conferred by nor derived from the
state. The American dream reminds us that every man is
heir to the legacy of worthiness." I completely agree with
Dr. King and believe everybody has the right to be who
they want to be and not be judged because of it. It is
wrong to see people for just their color because there's
so much more to a person besides the color of their skin.
It's sad to see that more than 50 years later we still have
some of the same problems that Dr. King had during his
era.
Dr. King believed in the importance of faith and moral
character. He often spoke of self- improvement and self-
help. He spoke against crime and disorderly conduct and
believed that churches and other faith-based associations
were necessary for the revival of the American culture. I
think church is a good foundation for the building of
moral character, but it is not and should not be the only
Missions Ministry has been encouraged and inspired by your strong, unwavering support of Missions
Programs and activities over the years. The Missions Ministry solicits your continued prayers and support of our
homeless students in Richland School Districts One and Two. Please keep in mind that Missions Ministry has
adopted this outreach as a permanent, year-round effort. Below is a 2013- 2014 report from Richland District
Two of 523 Students identified as homeless during the 2013-14 school year
Items requested by Richland One include: Book bags - all levels, Scientific calculators, Mechanical pencils,
Notebook paper - college and wide ruled, 1 1/2 and 2 inch binders, Crayons - 24 pack, Black pens, Post -it
notes, Index Cards
Items requested by Richland Two include: gloves, hats, shampoo and conditioner, detergent, deodorant, body
wash, soap, and under garments.
School Level Child Development Centers
Elementary School
Middle School High School Unaccompanied Youth
2013-14 10 (1%) 215 (41%) 102 (19%) 196 (37%) 122 (23%)
2012-13 8 (1%) 257 (46%) 119 (21%) 170 (31%) 82 (14%)
Nighttime Residence
Doubled Up Hotel Shelter Unsheltered/Substandard
2013-14 382 (73%) 80 (15%) 38 (7%) 14 (2%)
2012-13 388 (70%) 73 (13%) 46 (8%) 23 (4%)
Page 6 Burns Connection
Happy Birthday
FBUMC Mission Statement: The mission of Francis Burns United
Methodist Church is to glorify God, to spread the Good News of
Jesus Christ and to make Christian disciples through worship and
praise, nurture, outreach and witness.
FBUMC Vision Statement: The vision of Francis Burns United
Methodist Church is to be in covenant with God and to connect
with God's people through ministries that meet human needs.
01 Jaila Donnielle Evans
O2 Johnnie Johnson
03 Harold Murray, Jr.
03 Idi-Imiri Murray
04 Jaylin Williams
05 Reginald Mack
05 Brandi Guinyard
05 Roz Coleman
06 Kailey Young
07 Chantell Payne
08 Adrienne Lynn
08 Minnie Johnson
08 Emma J. Martin
11 Willie Howard
11 Eric Jeffries
12 Fred Brandyburg
13 Preston Cobb
14 Shania C. Sprouts
15 Shane Johnson
17 Michael Scott
19 Breonna Truesdale-
Richardson
20 Teresa Holland
20 Brandi Bell
20 Willie Lakin
21 Dominick Bailey
21 Julius Cave
21 Doris McNair
23 Sharon Wilson
23 Paul L. Jenkins
23 Ahisha Gunn
23 Shiitra Praylow
24 Bryan Brunson
24 D’Rell Coe
27 Xavier Howell
27 Tesh Johnson
27 Kimberly Mikell
28 Laura Gary
28 Bernetta Cooper
28 Alexandria White
28 Dinease Jones
5 February - Patrick and Zina Hudson
12 February – Earl and Ava Doby
17 February - Odell and Linda Kennedy
Happy Anniversary
To update your birthday or anniversary information,
contact Inez Benjamin at 736-1008 or
email [email protected]
Life is not about waiting for the storm to end.
Life is about learning to dance in the rain.
On The Light Side
“UMW” from page 3
The Global Dreamers Project, Founder Linda Luna
(Los Angeles, CA) - TGDP is a U.S. based global
organization that provides a diverse range of
opportunities designed to empower the lives and
propel the dreams of disadvantaged youth
throughout the world. With a fund-raising format,
the foundation creates programs and resources
that support this vision and mission. Programs and
resources will focus on mentorship, education,
careers, sports, life skills and leadership. Our
primary goal is to see the youth of our next global
generation live out their dreams and God-given
purpose.
Along with the United Methodist Women, Rhonda
and Sharee will coordinate fundraising activities in
the coming months that will directly impact the kids
lives. As the twins anticipated their return to the
'Motherland', they have tentatively outlined one
day with the kids that will consist of a tour to
Robben Island, Table Mountain, lunch at a
restaurant on the V&A Wharf, a 'brown bag' of
grocery, and a book bag full of school & art
supplies, and some basic clothing. Rhonda and
Sharee are also seeking to appeal to area youths
(including FB Youth Ministry) to become pen pals
with the kids from South Africa so that they can
teach the South African kids the gospel and in the
not too distant future, a travel exchange between
youths in the two countries.
Next meeting: A Call to Prayer and Self-Denial with
Grace UMC; hosted by Francis Burns UMC on Feb.
15 at 4PM in the fellowship hall.
Save the date: Women's Weekend- March 14 and
15. All women invited to attend and participate.
February 2015 Volume 2015 Issue 2
Burns Connection
Francis Burns UMC
5616 Farrow Rd.
Columbia, SC 29203
(803) 754-1760
Rev. Ernest C. Etheredge
Pastor
Francis Burns Members Attend Columbia District’s
Bishop’s Road Show
On January 24th the Columbia District of the South
Carolina Annual Conference of the United Methodist
Church hosted the 10th round of the Bishop’s Road Show.
Bishop Jonathan Holston and his team have planned
visits to all 12 Districts of the South Carolina Annual
Conference. The purpose of these gatherings is to afford
members of the laity an opportunity to meet and greet
the Bishop in a more relaxed environment. It also serves
as a means for Bishop Holston to emphasize the
importance of team work and the fact that each member
of the team is important.
10 members of the Francis Burns family braved the
chilly, damp morning to make their way to Shandon UMC
for the 9:00-2:00 session. Those persons were: Nettie
Green, Ollie Benners, Carol Singletary, Harold Murray,
Carrie Murray, Melagne Yed, Jean-Michee Yed, Delaine
Frierson, Beverly Frierson and Nancy Bradshaw.
Some of the points Bishop Holston emphasized during his
presentations included: 1) We must work on becoming
disciples God can use. 2) The key word is “together”: We
worship together; we are the church together; we are all
in the faith together. 3) What are we going to do
together? 4) The question is asked, “Can we trust each
other? God wants us to trust Him and learn to trust each
other more. 5) We are in conflict because we aren’t in
relationship. 6) We were not called to be members, we
were called to be disciples and to make disciples. 7) We
must all realize that the only right way is God’s way. 8)
What is it that God is calling you to do? What is it that
our church community needs us to do? 9) Remember, “I
(We) can do all things (together) through Christ who
strengthens me (us.)
Each church group present was then given 15 minutes to
come up with a plan that they would carry out in the next
3-6 months. Keep your eyes and ears open to see and
hear what our group came up with.
Tuesday
February 17
6:30 PM
Wednesday,
February 18
6 PM
Begins Wednesday,
February 25
12:00 noon to 1:15 PM
Contact Connie Glenn
803 206-6627)
for more information
Church Women United of Columbia Annual World Day of Prayer
Friday, March 6
10:30 A.M. Refreshments
11:00 A.M. Celebration
Emphasis: Women of the Bahamas
Scripture: Jesus asked His Disciples: “Do you
Understand What I have Done for You?”
John 13:1-17
Grace United Methodist Church
410 Harbison Blvd
Columbia, SC 29212
February 8th