Mentor United Methodist Church

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Easter Giving: Re:Source Cleveland and UMCOR

This Easter, we will split our special plate Easter Giving to Re:Source Cleveland, which works with the Cleveland immigrant community, and to the UMCOR Global Migration Response. Starting on March 17, Easter Giving envelopes will be available. Check your chairs and pews! The envelopes in question will state Easter Giving on them. If you are out of town or unable to drop off on Easter morning, feel free to drop off your Giving before or online.

Learn More

Re:Source Cleveland “empowers resettled families to grow roots, supporting them in becoming engaged, self-sufficient and contributing members of their new communities.” On their website you can find out more about what they do, how to get involved, and how to get in touch (click here). We also recommend you check out their social media (linked on their website) and YouTube (click here)! There is also a great video on their Give page that you should check out! Watch here.


UMCOR Global Migration seeks to address “the global refugee and migration crisis”. Learn more about UMCOR: Global Migration by clicking here.

Royal Family Kids Camp

Royal Family Kids


It is that time of year when Royal Family Kids is gearing up for another year of camp. The number of kids that can have a potentially life-changing experience this summer depends on the number of teens (age 16 and older) and adults who choose to volunteer their time to create positive memories for children who have experienced neglect and abuse.


Camp this summer is scheduled to begin for staff on Friday evening June 7. Children ages 6 through 11 arrive on Saturday June 8 and stay through the afternoon of Wednesday June 12. At camp children receive positive attention and encouragement as they engage in many activities including sports, fishing, crafts, music, chapel time and a special birthday party, all designed for the children to experience success and build self-esteem. Volunteers are needed both full and part time to have fun and make moments matter in a child’s life.


Volunteers are interviewed and receive a background check for the safety of the children. Also, all volunteers receive training before the start of camp. The only cost of volunteering is your time and you may be richly rewarded knowing you made a positive difference in the life of a child. For further information speak with Johanna Martin johannamartin@sbcglobal.net and visit this website For The Children | Royal Family Kids #271 | Willoughby Hills (rfkwilloughbyhills.org)


View “Story of the One” here, a moving testimony to the work of RFK.

The BIG Event: YSP Fundraising

Join us on Sunday, April 14, 2024 for The BIG Event!
We’ll gather in Fellowship Hall from 5 PM to 8 PM for dinner, auctions, and entertainment. This annual fundraiser helps support the cost of the Youth Service Project Mission Trip in June. Youth and adults will travel to Reelfoot Rural Missions in Obion, TN June 21-29 (learn more here). You can purchase tickets SOON. Look for updates on this page and in the Weekly Update. Tickets are $15 for adults. Kids 17 and under are FREE.


YSP students are looking for items to fill the Silent and Live Auction tables for our fundraiser, Heroes for Humanity, on April 14th.  Ideas of sought after items in the past: restaurant gift cards, rounds of golf, tickets to an event, themed baskets such as Movie Night,  Coffee-Lovers, Game-Night, Gardening, etc. (no lottery tickets or alcohol please) Donation forms are located in the Information Hub/church office. For more information please contact Karen Martin at karen@martin4.net. You can drop your basket off to the church office during our regular office hours (Mon-Fri 8-4). Check out our socials for more info on what’s up for auction this year: https://linktr.ee/mentorumc



Dine & Discover

Dine & Discover is an event for ALL to attend! Together we’ll learn how to prepare a budget-friendly nutritious meal, learn about local food resources, and build community! Mentor United Methodist Church will be hosting on Saturday, March 16, 2024 at 1 PM. For other dates and locations, see below.


Saturday, March 2, 2024, 8:00am

  • Painesville United Methodist Church - Parsons Hall
  • 71 N Park Place, Painesville, OH 44077
  • RSVP: Call (440) 354-3642 or Email: mstrickland@pumconline.org or mwalker@pumconline.org


  • Saturday, March 16, 2024, 1:00pm

  • Mentor United Methodist Church
  • 8600 Mentor Avenue, Mentor, OH 44060
  • RSVP: Call (440) 255-3496 or Email info@mentorumc.org


  • Tuesday, April 9, 2024, 5:30pm

  • Hope Ridge United Methodist Church, Room: Cafe
  • 9870 Johnnycake Ridge Road, Concord, OH 44060
  • RSVP: Call (440) 352-2141 or Email hopeoffice@hoperidge.com


  • Saturday, April 20, 2024, 12:00pm

  • Willoughby United Methodist Church, Room: Fellowship Hall
  • 15 Public Square, Willoughby, OH 44094
  • RSVP: Call (440) 942-9068 or Email admin@willoughbyumc.org


  • Saturday, May 4, 2024, 12:00pm

  • Chapel United Methodist Church, Room: Fellowship Hall
  • 2019 Hubbard Rd., Madison, Ohio 44057
  • RSVP: Call (440) 428-3981 or Email chapelumc16@gmail.com


  • Tuesday, May 14, 2024, 5:30pm

  • Hope Ridge United Methodist Church, Room: Cafe
  • 9870 Johnnycake Ridge Road, Concord, OH 44060
  • RSVP: Call (440) 352-2141 or Email hopeoffice@hoperidge.com

  • Scholarships 2024

    Click here for more details


    Each Spring, Mentor United Methodist Church offers scholarships to Graduating seniors and college students. We are excited to once again offer them this year. Check out the link above for more information on these scholarships and how to fill out our digital form.


    Recognition for Scholarship winners will be on June 9, 2024 at 10 AM in the Gallery during a brunch.

    Historic Times Lunch with Cara Stultz Costello

    The United Methodist Church and the 2024 General Conference - Historic Times
    On March 17, after the 11:00 service, we will have a lunch that will feature Rev. Cara Stultz Costello who will talk about the United Methodist Church and General Conference.


    Pastor Cara has been an adjunct professor of United Methodist Polity at Methodist Theological School of Ohio (MTSO) since 2019. She has been a North Central Jurisdictional delegate since 2019. Rev. Stultz Costello attended the 2019 Special General Conference with her Polity students. She will be attending the 2020 General Conference as a member of the East Ohio delegation scheduled for April 23 - May 3, 2024. Currently, Cara is serving with Rev. Edgar Brady as one of the District Superintendents of the Central Valley District in the East Ohio Conference. This will be an opportunity for us to learn about the United Methodist Church in these historic times. If you have questions that you would like for Pastor Cara to consider, please use this link (https://forms.gle/5CPJWX66ZPR8mmadA) or put submit them on paper to the church office by March 14 th . Please include your name, phone number and email address. If you plan on attending the lunch, please register here.

    Letter from Pastor Steve

    Different Perspectives on Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity


    Since I came to Mentor UMC last July, I’ve had more than a handful of people independently talk with me about their concerns for the United Methodist Church and for Mentor United Methodist Church (MUMC) related to different perspectives about sexual orientation and gender identity. Some have shared with me that they are sad about deeply committed members of the church who in recent years have left because they fear the United Methodist Church as a denomination will soon no longer maintain a traditional view regarding sexuality, gender, and marriage. Others have shared that they are waiting to see what happens at the next General Conference of the UMC when the denomination will vote on proposed revisions to our Book of Discipline (the official publication that states the UMC’s position, policies and practices pertaining to a wide range of social issues, including LGBTQ). Some members have asked me about information they have picked up from the news or online, wanting to know if the information is accurate. Some have shared their hope that the UMC will become affirming of LGBTQ persons, telling me stories about loved ones who have suffered from feeling unwelcomed and judged by their church. In short, I’ve been hearing a general request for me as the Sr. Pastor to help the church navigate with better clarity these historic times in the United Methodist Church and to help us gain a better sense of who we are and who God is calling us to be at Mentor UMC.


    Although I have had some individual conversations, I have intentionally not organized any church-wide opportunities for information sharing or discussions to date. I felt it was more important and appropriate during my first six or seven months to focus on getting to know the congregation and listening. Now that I am in the second half of my first year, and with General Conference scheduled for April 23 - May 3 of this year, I feel it is important to facilitate broader opportunities for information sharing and conversations.


    To this end, I have made plans for two opportunities that I hope will be helpful for the whole church. The first is a lunch after worship on March 17 from 12:15-2:00 that will feature Rev. Cara Stultz Costello as a guest speaker. Cara will be setting the stage for further study and conversations by walking us through how the United Methodist Church functions - specifically, the process by which official statements of belief are reviewed and changed. Rev. Cara will also talk about some of the legislation that is on the agenda for this year’s General Conference. Please see the “Mark Your Calendars for March 17” article with Cara’s picture to read more about her credentials and to sign up. The second opportunity will be a worship and study series called “Being United Methodist”.


    The worship series will begin on Sunday, April 14 and will conclude on June 2. The study opportunity is tentatively being planned for Tuesday nights, 6:30-8:00, April 16 - May 28. It is my intention to be present as the primary facilitator every week with just a couple of exceptions. My hope and prayer for the worship series and the study is that we will grow in our understanding of and appreciation for the many unique and beautiful ways the United Methodist Church is the Body of Christ. As the Apostle Paul says in 1 Corinthians 12, we are one body made up of many diverse parts. Already, I have seen how MUMC exemplifies this image of unity with diversity, God’s people held together and serving together by Christ’s love.


    In preparation for the March 17 lunch and for further conversation opportunities, please consider the following: The most current edition of The Book of Discipline was published in 2016. It upholds the church’s historic statements pertaining to homosexuality. It states in paragraph 304.3 “The practice of homosexuality is incompatible with Christian teaching. Therefore, self-avowed practicing homosexuals are not to be certified as candidates, ordained as ministers, or appointed to serve in The United Methodist Church.” And, in paragraph 341.6 “Ceremonies that celebrate homosexual unions shall not be conducted by our ministers and shall not be conducted in our churches.”


    Also in the 2016 Book of Discipline, in the Social Principles under “Human Sexuality” is stated, “We affirm that sexuality is God's good gift to all persons. We call everyone to responsible stewardship of this sacred gift…. [also] we affirm that God’s grace is available to all. We will seek to live together in Christian community, welcoming, forgiving, and loving one another, as Christ has loved and accepted us.  We implore families and churches not to reject or condemn lesbian and gay members and friends. We commit ourselves to be in ministry for and with all persons.” To read the complete statement and other statements in our Social Principles, go to: https://www.umc.org/en/content/the-nurturing-
    community#human-sexuality


    Paragraph 304.3 and 341.6 are being reviewed and considered for revisions at the April 23 - May 3 General Conference. The best source of information about General Conference and the United Methodist Church in general is https://www.umnews.org/en/ I hope you will visit this website as well as the previous one about our social principles. Take some time to read the articles, follow the links and write down your questions. You can submit questions for Rev. Cara and me to consider as we prepare for the March 17 lunch event.


    It is truly a joy to get to serve as the Sr. Pastor of Mentor UMC. I appreciate your concern for the church, for its mission, for its people, and for the world. I deeply believe that God is calling us to be a witness to the community and the world that a church exists where people from all walks of life with many different biblical, theological, and political perspectives earnestly love one another as we worship and serve Christ together.


    Humbly Yours,


    Pastor Steve

    Update Your Records

    Records Update

    We are in the midst of updating our digital records for families & individuals and would like your help! Fill out this form (also below) to get your information up to date. ALL information shared is private and known only to the staff who work with the database. There is also no requirement that all fields be filled; only what you are comfortable sharing. For a physical form, check the Information Hub (forms are YELLOW).

    Lenten Season Offerings & Events

    Join us this Lenten season for service, missions, studies, and can’t-miss events.


    Sermon Series
    With the beginning of Lent comes the beginning of our new sermon series, “Wandering Heart”. Join us every Sunday of Lent to “figure out faith with Peter”.


    Let us welcome our guest preachers for the two Sundays Pastor Steve will be in Zimbabwe. On February 25, at the modern worship services, for the first time at Mentor United Methodist Church, Pastor Adefemi (Femi) Adepitan will be our guest preacher. Femi is a native of Nigeria, Africa. He graduated with a degree in accounting. After college, Femi went on to pursue his career in the field of banking and finance. Femi later passed the equivalent of the United State’s CPA exam and became a member of the Nigerian Institute of Chartered Accountants.

    God transitioned Femi out of his secular career as an Accountant into the five-fold ministry where he operates as a Pastor/Teacher. Femi has served as a Pastor of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), All Nations Deliverance Ministries, and Vital Faith Assemblies (VFA). He currently teaches the Word of God to various church congregations. Femi is happily married to Alexis and they are blessed with children.


    On March 3, at the traditional services, we will be blessed to have our previous district superintendent, Rev. Edgar Brady be our guest preacher. On January 1, 2024, Rev. Brady began his new appointment to serve with Rev. Cara Stultz Costello as one of the district superintendents of the Central Valley District in the East Ohio Conference. Rev Brady has been in pastoral ministry in the United Methodist Church since 1985 serving in Tennessee, Kentucky and East Ohio. Rev. Brady is known for his dynamic and uplifting preaching as well as for his warm and engaging personality. He love God, loves God’s people and has a special love for the people of Mentor United Methodist Church!


    You can also join us on Wednesday evenings for the following:


    February 14
    Ash Wednesday: “Tune my heart”

  • 7:30-8:00 AM worship in the Chapel
  • 12:00-12:45 PM worship in the Chapel
  • 7:00-8:00 PM worship in the Sanctuary


  • February 21 - March 20
    Family, Feast and Fellowship
    A time to Connect & Grow: this Dinner is at 5:45-6:30 in the Gallery and will include a 20-minute “camp style” worship. Let us know if you have particular dietary parameters, we will do our best to accommodate. No charge, though donations are accepted.  SIGN UP HERE.
    February 21: Turkey a la King

    February 28: Lasagna

    March 6: Chicken Tenders & Mac ‘n Cheese

    March 13: Ham & Bean Soup and Grilled Cheese

    March 20: Mama Robertos (Chick Parm)


    Wandering Heart
    Figuring out Faith with Peter Class, 6:30-7:45
    Go deeper in the texts about Jesus and Peter each week as we engage questions for reflection, conversation, and spiritual formation exercises.  SIGN UP HERE.


    Mentor UMC 101, 6:30-7:45
    A Class to learn more about the Christian faith, the United Methodist Church, and Mentor United Methodist Church.  SIGN UP HERE.


    Heart Reflections to Resurrection, 6:30-7:45
    Youth Ministry NexGen will gather in the MUMC Youth Room for reflections and activities as we prepare our hearts for the season of Lent. SIGN UP HERE


    Finding Our Faith
    For Children in Kindergarten through 5th grade (details to come).  SIGN UP HERE.
    Childcare provided for babies through preschool


    Devotionals
    Pick up a copy of our Wandering Heart devotionals in the Info Hub. Starting Ash Wednesday (February 14), this weekly devotional follows the scriptures of the Wandering Heart series through the Second Sunday of Easter (April 7). Each week has commentary, poetry, art, hymns, and more. If you wish to have a digital version, check your weekly Sunday morning email from us. To get on our email list, ask Kenna (ktanner@mentorumc.org) or visit the sign up on our website’s MAIN PAGE.


    Additional: Upper Room and Daily Bread devotionals are available for March/April in the church office, Narthex, and in Fellowship Hall. $1 donations are appreciated.

    Events

    Bunny Brunch
    The Easter Bunny will be making a special stop at MUMC on Saturday, March 23 at 9:30. ALL are invited to come! To help out, please click here.


    Community Egg Hunt
    This year’s Community Egg Hunt will take place on Saturday, March 30 at 10:00 AM at Garfield Park. To volunteer to help, click here.


    Egg My Yard
    Egg My Yard is March 30th with a Youth Easter Party afterwards at 6:00 - 8:00 PM. Egg My Yard is a great fundraiser! Choose the amount of eggs, content of eggs, and level of difficulty for their hiding place in your chosen yard. To have your (or someone else’s) yard “egged” for a donation, please fill out this form.

    Lenten Missions

    During this season of Lent we highlight our Food Ministry which seeks to provide meals and food to those in our community. We are always taking donations of various and specific items for our Pantry. A list can be found here as well as information on how to get involved in this month’s More Than a Meal (February 24 and March 30). Please reach out to the church office or check out the Information Hub for more.

    Lenten Cantata

    Join us in 9 & 11 AM Traditional Worship on Sunday, March 24 for our Lenten Cantata. You can watch 11 AM online here

    .

    Holy Week

    Palm Sunday
    Palm Sunday will be on March 24 at 9 & 11 AM Modern and Traditional. 9 AM Modern and 11 AM Traditional are livestreamed as well. Lenten Cantata (details above) will be during both Traditional services.


    Maundy Thursday
    Our Maundy Thursday service will be Thursday, March 28 at 7 PM in Fellowship Hall.


    Good Friday
    Join us on March 29 at 7 PM in the Sanctuary for our Good Friday service.


    Easter Sunday
    Easter Sunrise service will be at 7 AM at Overlook beach park with a breakfast to follow at MUMC. Our Easter services will be at 9 and 11 AM on March 31 for both Modern and Traditional Worship. Our 9 AM Modern & 11 AM Traditional services are livestreamed as well, and can be viewed on our Facebook or YouTube channel.
    *If you would like to order Easter Flowers please keep in an eye out in the coming weeks for a form.

    Blood Drives


    The next Red Cross Blood Drive is:
    Tuesday, March 19, 2024, from 9 AM to 3 PM
      Click here to make an appointment.

    Church History

    Mentor United Methodist Church celebrated its 200th year in 2018!
    Celebrating the past, living in the present, building for the future.

    Events
    Events


    Read the monthly Bicentennial Moments from service.

    January
    February
    March
    April
    May
    July
    August
    September
    October
    November

    Click here to read the monthly Through the Years column in our Steepletalk Newsletter

    Do you have any MUMC history you would like to share with the congregation?
    Please send it to:
    Don Humphrey
    7330 Holly Park Dr.
    Concord, Ohio 44060-6704 or e-mail to: dhumphrey@ameritech.net

    Milestones