Central United Methodist Church
Thursday, February 23, 2012
 
December 6, 2011

Church Family,

 

I am writing you to invite you to a new adventure in your walk with Jesus. Some of you may have a life-goal of reading through the entire Bible, but have never made it all the way through.  Beginning the week of January 15th we are offering you a practical, exciting way to read the whole Bible. The course described below is called "The Bible in 90 Days."

 

In 1999, Ted Cooper's life changed forever. Agnostic at the time, he read the Bible from cover to cover in three months. Halfway through this extraordinary experience, he committed his life to Christ.  In 2001, Ted created "Cover 2 Cover: The Bible in 90 Days" to help others share this experience. Surprised by the response and the success rate, he modified the course so that it could be easily led by other lay leaders. The results were such that Zondervan published the curriculum and resource materials, making them available nationally in the fall of 2005.

 

The Challenge:

The challenge is to read the Bible in 90 days.  Individually, you read 12 pages a day in a Bible specially selected for its ease of reading. Unique resource materials help you comprehend as you read.

 

Once a week you gather with other participants to:


* Pray for one another

* Review what you read during the previous week

* Preview the next week's reading

* Participate in small group discussion

 

When you have met the challenge you will:

 

* Know a group of people with whom you have shared the journey

* Know more about God and His relationship with each of us

* See interconnections that exist throughout the Bible

* Have a critical foundation for future Bible study

* Have fully received the gift God gave us.

 

For some it might not be possible to attend a small group session each week.  If you fall in that category you can still go through the course without attending a small group.  However, the small group sessions are great in that they foster more accountability, support, and learning. 

 

Here are some quotes from individuals who have read the Bible in 90 days:

 

“I loved the sense of continuity in reading it straight through.  It creates a sense of historical perspective that you cannot fully appreciate without reading the Bible from cover to cover.”  Bill Merriman

 

“I decided that if I could make commitments to schools, employers, and my family, I could make a 90 day commitment to God.”  Carol Smith

 

I will be leading two different discussion groups throughout this process.  We will meet on Wednesdays at 1:30 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. beginning Wednesday, January 18th.  If you are unable to make either one of these Wednesday groups, you may sign up for other groups that will be meeting throughout the church and in homes.  For more information about the Bible in 90 Days you may go to www.biblein90days.org.  I look forward to taking this journey with you!

 

 

In Christ,

 

 

 

Rev. Brad Brittain
 
 
November 9, 2011
 

Church Family,

 

In the next few weeks we will begin the process of going door-to-door in our community (neighborhoods/businesses) to get to know our neighbors and invite them to be a part of our church community.  I am developing a list of persons in our church who would be willing to go out into our community to invite.  If you would like to assist us in this effort, simply email me your name and telephone number (bradbrittain@hotmail.com) or give me a call at the church office 254-420-2862.  In December we will invite the residents in the Sendero Springs neighborhood (south of the church on Bagby).  Once I get a complete list of those willing to go invite, we will pick some days to go out.  Below is a list of those who have already responded:

Dwyane Warneke

David McElreath

Kathy McElreath

Pat and Pat Stroman

Mary Sewell

Sue Sowder

Bonnie Rinard

Wesley Perry

Billie Frayer

Ann Shaffer

Jane Keahey

Marilyn Custer

Ann Staas

 

Thanks!

In Christ,

Brad
 
 
October 3, 2011
 
Revival Continues Tonight

Last night we had a wonderful worship service.  We enjoyed some great music and were blessed by the preaching of Thomas Q. Robbins.  Our service begins tonight at 7:00 p.m  The Silver Lining Quartet will be singing tonight.  Child care will be available.

Children's Ministry Meeting

There will be a meeting of the newly established children's council and parents of children in our church on Tuesday night at 6:00 p.m. in the fellowship hall.  We will meet together to discuss future children's ministries here at Central.

Enough Stewardship Study

We are now forming our groups for the four-week Enough stewardship study.  This is a wonderful study about how we can best use the resources God has given us.  There are sign up sheets in the foyer just outside the sanctuary.  We have several different groups and meeting times from which you can choose. 

Golf This Sunday

If you are a golfer and would like to play this Sunday, you can email Brad Brittain at bradbrittain@hotmail.com to get on the list.  We will be playing at 1:30 p.m. on Sunday at Cottonwood Creek here in Waco. 

United Methodist Women

Our United Methodist Women's group has their monthly meeting tomorrow morning at 10:00 a.m.  The UMW would like to invite you to be a part of the group! 

Missions/Outreach Lunch and Meeting

On Sunday, October 16th we will have a lunch immediately following the 11:00 a.m. worship service.  At the lunch we will discuss possible mission trips in the coming year, along with sharing ideas for local outreach in our community.  We have some great ongoing missions here at Central and would love to expand in our outreach. 

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"The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want.  He makes me lie down in green pastures; he leads me beside still waters; he restores my soul.  He leads me in right paths for his name's sake."  Psalm 23:1-3
 
In Christ,

Rev. Brad Brittain
 
September 27, 2011
 
Central UMC Revival -- Dr. Thomas Q. Robbins

Our church will be having revival worship services from October 2nd-4th at 7:00 p.m. each evening.  Dr. Thomas Q. Robbins will be leading our revival.  Thomas Q. has served several churches in his ministry and currently serves at FUMC Temple where his son Tom Robbins is senior pastor.  Thomas Q. has a heart for sharing the good news of Jesus Christ and is excited about being with us next week.  In addition to Thomas Q., we will have special music during the revival from our B.A.S.I.C. group, as well as the Silver Lining Quartet.  This is a wonderful opportunity to gather as a church for special worship and invite others in our community to join us.  The first night of the revival we will have a church-wide potluck supper beginning at 5:00 p.m.  Please be in prayer for our revival.  Child care will be provided each night of the revival.

Children's Ministry at Central UMC

As we move forward in planning and implementing children's ministries here at Central, we would like to do a better job of communicating events that we have planned and coordinating with one another (parents, volunteers, etc.).  In an effort to do this we are establishing a children's council.  The function of this council will be to help plan and coordinate children's ministry and assure that we have a good line of communication for our future ministries.  We all want to see our children's ministries expand and I look forward to planning ministries as we move forward together.  The children's council will be made up of volunteers who work directly with our children, as well as parents of our children.  The following individuals will serve as our council --Cameo Melichar, Shirley Parks, Chuck Freeto, Dawn Connally, Kimberly Williams, Suzanne Bullard, Kelli Perry, Chesley and Dan Maeyert, Jane Keahey, and Bill and Angela Radde.  

On Tuesday, October 4th I would like to invite all parents of children in our children's program to meet in the fellowship hall with our children's council.  We will be discussing how the council will function, as well as what we would like to see in our children's ministry here at Central.  We will meet in the fellowship hall at 6:00 p.m. before the revival worship at 7:00 p.m. (Childcare will be provided during the meeting).  Thanks again for all those who have volunteered to work with our children.  Our church is in transition in a lot of areas, and it is my prayer that this meeting will help move us along in the process of growing the kingdom of God in our children's ministry. 
 
Mission/Outreach Gathering

On Sunday, October 16th
we will have a lunch in the fellowship hall immediately following our 11:00 a.m. worship service.  At the lunch we will be discussing possibilities for upcoming mission trips, as well as sharing ideas for local outreach ministries that our church can be engaged in year round.  If you have any ideas for outreach in our community please come and share them!
 
Game Night Tonight

Join us tonight for game night at Central.  We meet at 7:00 p.m. in the fellowship hall to play cards, 42, board games, etc.

Golf -- October 9th

On Sunday, October 9th we will be having a fellowship golf outing at Cottonwood Creek Golf Course.  We will begin play at 1:30 p.m.  If you are interested in playing, email Brad Brittain at bradbrittain@hotmail.com to get on the list.  This is a good opportunity to invite those who may not be a part of our church community.


"It's not what you believe that counts; it's what you believe enough to do."  Richard Stearns

In Christ,

Rev. Brad Brittain



September 20, 2011
 
Time Change -- Central Book Club

This Sunday we will be gathering to discuss the book "The Hole in our Gospel".  We had originally set a time of 7:00 p.m. to meet but will be meeting at 4:30 p.m. instead.  If you have read the book and would l like to join us to discuss it, we will meet in the fellowship hall. 

Special Sunday This Sunday!

This Sunday it is our privilege to have as our special guest Nancy Burks Worcester.  Nancy is a well-known ventriliquest and storyteller who will be joining us in our 9:45 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. worship services.  She will be sharing the gospel in a unique way with her special talent. 

Central UMC Revival

Dr. Thomas Q. Robbins will be leading us in a revival October 2nd-4th.  Each evening our worship will begin at 7:00 p.m.  On Sunday, October 2nd we will have a church-wide potluck supper beginning at 5:00 p.m. before the revival.  Join us for some great music and inspiring messages from Dr. Robbins.
 
In Christ,
Brad
 
September 12, 2011
 
Thank You Choir and Musicians!!!!

Yesterday's 9/11 concert was outstanding!  We had a great crowd and wonderful music to remember the events of 9/11.  Together with the members from Central Presbyterian we raised $1,658 to be split 50/50 between the Woodway and Waco Fire Departments.

Game Night -- This Tuesday at 7:00 p.m.  Come and join us for food, fun, and fellowship!   

Central Saints Luncheon -- Thursday

This Thursday we will have our Central Saints Pot-luck lunch at 12:00 p.m.  Rev. Don Scott, our new District Superintendent, will be joining us and speaking. 

Nancy Burks Worcester -- Sunday, September 25th

Nancy Burks Worcester is a highly acclaimed actress, ventriloquist and storyteller who has performed all across the nation. For the past 10 year she has traveled all over America and Mexico teaching and inspiring millions for Nana Puddin' Productions.  In addition to performing for schools and other groups, Nancy enjoys sharing the gospel through her unique talent with church groups as well.  Nancy will be joining us on Sunday, September 25th during our 9:45 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. worship services.  An accomplished ventriloquist, Nancy’s partners include a crocodile named Larry, weasels Waco and Lily, Charlotte Jane Goodall, a lively chimpanzee, Begonia the spotted leopard and many more.

New Bible Study Groups

If you are interested in joining a new Bible study group, we have three new classes that have just formed:

Mondays 6:00 p.m. -- Short-Term Disciple Class -- This is an eight-week course on the gospel of John.  The class is led by Jane Keahey and meets in the parlor. Tuesdays 1:00 p.m. -- Short-Term Disciple Class -- This is an eight-week course on the gospel of John.  The class is led by JoAnn Pulattie and meets in the library.
Wednesdays 6:00 p.m. -- Study of the gospel of Luke -- Led by Rev. Brittain in the Central Perk room. 

Mission Waco Walk for the Homeless

This coming Sunday Mission Waco is sponsoring the Walk for the Homeless from 8:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.  If you would like to participate or would like to donate items towards the event, you may contact either Paula Wilson or Beverly Hill.  Paula has reported that our Sunday school classes have donated seven pair of new shoes for the event.  Thank you to all those who have given so far! 
 
In Christ,
Brad
 
September 6, 2011
 
Wednesday Night Programs

This Wednesday our Wednesday night programs will begin in full.  Below is a list of programs and times:

Supper 5:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
Koi 6:00 p.m.
Pastor's Bible Study 6:00 p.m.
Short-Term Disciple Bible Study 6:00 p.m.
Children's Logos Program 6:00 p.m.
Youth Group 6:00 p.m.
Choir Rehearsal 7:00 p.m.

A Central Celebration in Remembrance of 9/11

This coming Sunday will mark the ten year anniversary of 9/11.  In remembrance of 9/11 our choir and the choir from Central Presbyterian will be offering a concert to benefit the Waco and Woodway Fire Departments.  The concert will begin at 4:00 p.m. here at Central UMC.  Special thanks to all those who have worked to put this great event together. 

Central UMC Book Club -- The Hole in our Gospel

This month we are reading the book The Hole in Our Gospel by Richard Stearns.  The Hole in Our Gospel is the true story of a corporate CEO who set aside worldly success for something far more significant, and discovered the full power of the gospel of Jesus Christ to change his own life.  He uses his journey to demonstrate how the gospel -- the whole gospel -- was always meant to be a world-changing social revolution, a revolution that begins with us.  We will be discussing the book on Sunday, September 25th at 7:00 p.m. at the church.  If you would like to participate simply purchase the book, read it, and join us on the 25th. 

Central Golf Scramble -- Sunday, October 9th

On Sunday, October 9th we will be having a golf scramble at Cottonwood Creek Golf Course.  We will begin play at 1:30 p.m.  The cost is $35 per person (includes cart).  If you are interested in playing email Brad Brittain at bradbrittain@hotmail.com or call the church office.  This is not intended to be an official PGA event!  If you enjoy playing golf, come and join us!  We would like to have an official count fairly soon so we can reserve the tee times. 

Men's Retreat to be Rescheduled

The men's retreat that we had scheduled for October will be rescheduled for the spring.  More information later. 

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"The Possessor of heaven and earth placed you here, not as a proprietor, but as a steward."  John Wesley

"The heavens are thine, the earth also is thine."  Psalm 89:11
 
In Christ,
Brad
 
 
August 30, 2011
 
Men's Retreat Rescheduled

The Men's Retreat that we had originally scheduled for the weekend of October 22nd in Glen Rose will be rescheduled for the spring of 2012.  We need as many of our members here as possible the weekend of the 22nd for our Pumpkin Patch.  We will be scheduling a men's golf outing one Saturday or Sunday in October at a local golf course.  More information later.

Mission Waco Walk for the Homeless

On Sunday, September 18th from 8:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Mission Waco will be sponsoring a Walk for the Homeless to raise awareness of the homeless in our community and receive items/donations to help those in need.  In the past members of our church have participated and will be participating again this year.  If you would like more information about this event or would like to donate hygiene items or funds to Mission Waco, please contact Paula Wilson and/or Beverly Hill.   
 
August 29, 2011
 
Pumpkin Patch Meeting

This Tuesday we will be having a Pumpkin Patch meeting to begin organizing for the Pumpkin Patch the last two weeks of October.  The meeting will begin at 6:00 p.m. in the fellowship hall.  Anyone interested in helping is welcome to attend. 

Central Conversation and Pot-Luck Supper

This Wednesday we will be having a church-wide pot-luck supper at 6:00 p.m., followed by the first of our quarterly Central Conversations.  The Central Conversations will be a time when we highlight upcoming ministries and pray for our church.  Everyone is welcome and encouraged to attend.

Disciple Bible Study

We are now registering for Disciple Bible study classes that will be offered beginning in September.  We have long-term and short-term (8 weeks) Disciple classes available.  You may sign up in the foyer just outside the sanctuary.

Pastor's Bible Study

Rev. Brittain will be leading a Bible study beginning Wednesday, September 7th at 6:00 p.m.  The first meeting will take place in the sanctuary and then once the group has assembled they will select a room in the church to meet on a regular basis.  If you are interested in attending, simply bring your Bible and join us.  The group will be studying the gospel of Luke. 

Central Texas Conference Fall Summit -- Becoming a Missional Church

On September 10th the Central Texas Conference of the United Methodist Church will be hosting a Fall Summit on becoming a missional church.  Best-selling author Reggie McNeal will be leading the discussion and training.  If you are interested in attending, you may email Rev. Brittain at bradbrittain@hotmail.com or contact the church office 254-420-2862.  Brad and others from our church will be attending.  The event will be at First United Methodist Church Mansfield.  The group will leave Saturday morning and return late Saturday afternoon.  The cost for the event is $25 per person.

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"Though I am always in haste, I am never in a hurry; because I never undertake any more work than I can go through with perfect calmness."  John Wesley 
In Christ,
Brad
 


August 22, 2011
 
Central Conversations

On Wednesday, August 31st
we will have the first of our quarterly "Central Conversations".  This will be a time to celebrate what we have going on at the church, as well as highlight upcoming ministries and programs.  We will gather together on the 31st at 6:00 p.m. in the fellowship hall for a pot-luck supper and then go to the sanctuary for our discussion.  We will not have our regular Wednesday meal at 5:00 p.m. on that Wednesday.  Everyone is welcome and encouraged to attend.

Pastor's Bible Study

Rev. Brittain will be beginning his Pastor's Bible Study on Wednesday, September 7th from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.  If you are interested in participating, simply bring your Bible and join us.  We will be studying the gospel of Luke.  All are welcome -- those new to Bible study and those who have studied the Bible for years.  On September 7th we will gather in the sanctuary and then from there we will decide on a more permanent location in the church for our class. (Choir members are welcome as well.  We will be finished with our study each Wednesday to give you time to attend choir rehearsal.)

Disciple Bible Study

In the foyer outside the sanctuary we have sign-up sheets for those interested in taking one of our Disciple Bible Study classes.  We will be offering the long-term Bible study (32 weeks), as well as short-term Disciple classes (8 weeks).  Once we have everyone registered we will divide up the classes. 

Pumpkin Patch

Our church will be hosting a pumpkin patch from October 17th -- October 31st.  Proceeds from the sale of the pumpkins will go towards  Glen Lake Camp (the United Methodist camp for our conference).  We have planned a mission trip to Glen Lake the week of March 12th 2012.  We will be working on various projects around the camp.  This will be a great trip for children, youth, and adults.  Over the next few weeks you will have opportunities to volunteer to help with the operation of the Pumpkin Patch.  This is truly a project in which the whole church can participate in one way or another. 

Game Night

Game Night is this Tuesday at 7:00 p.m.  Come join us as we share a meal together and play games at the church.  We have had a great crowd the last two times and would love to have you join us!  

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"Then Jesus said to Simon, 'Do not be afraid; from now on you will be catching people.'  When they had brought their boats to shore, they left everything and followed him."  Luke 5:10-11

Remember -- Someone is waiting for you to invite them to be a part of our community at Central!
 
In Christ,
Brad
 
 
August 15, 2011
 
Blessing of the Backpacks

We will be having our Blessing of the Backpacks this Sunday during our 9:45 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. worship services.  We ask that our children bring their backpacks to church so we can say a special blessing for the school year.  We would also like to pray for those who work in our schools.

Seniors Spelling Bee

This Saturday our Seniors group is sponsoring a Senior's Spelling Bee.  Registration starts at noon.  The spelling bee begins at 12:30 p.m. in the fellowship hall. 

Pastor's Book Club -- New Book for September

Last night we had a great discussion in our first in a series of discussions on various books.  We discussed the topic of forgiveness and the book "Unconditional: The Call of Jesus to Radical Forgiveness".  For the month of September we will be reading the book "The Hole in Our Gospel" by Richard Stearns.  We will meet at the church to discuss the book on Sunday, September 25th at 7:00 p.m.  We would love for you to join us.  To order the book you can order it online through Cokesbury, Amazon or any other major book retailer.

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"Love is patient; love is kind; love is not envious or boastful or arrogant or rude.  It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; it does not rejoice in wrongdoing, but rejoices in the truth.  It bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things."  I Corinthians 13:4-7
 
In Christ,
Brad
 
 
August 9, 2011
 
Disciple Bible Study Luncheon/Information Session

This Sunday, August 14th, we will have a lunch after the 11:00 a.m. worship service to discuss the upcoming Bible studies we will be offering this Fall at Central.  We will be offering long-term Disciple Bible Study courses, as well as short-term Disciple Bible Study courses.  In addition to the Disciple program, we will offer other Bible studies throughout the year.  If you are interested in learning more about the Disciple program and other studies we will be offering, join us this Sunday.  Once we have a list of those interested in participating, we will form the groups. 

Book Club Discussion -- This Sunday

For those who have purchased and read the book "Unconditional: The Call of Jesus to Radical Forgiveness", we will be having our discussion of the book this Sunday.  We will have two sessions -- 4:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.  You may come at either time, whichever is more convenient for your schedule.  Rev. Brittain will be facilitating the discussion at both sessions.  We will meet in the library. 

Blessing of the Backpacks

On Sunday, August 21st we will have a special time of prayer and blessing during our 9:45 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. worship services for our children returning to school.  We ask that the children bring their backpacks to church on the 21st as we pray for the upcoming school year.  We will ask the children to come forward during the worship service and place their backpacks on the communion rail as we pray for a great year at school.

Game Night Tonight

Game Night is tonight at 7:00 p.m.  We meet at the church in the fellowship hall for food, fun, and fellowship.  We play all sorts of games and would love for you to join us!

Surprise Birthday Card Shower for Betty Moore

You are invited to participate in a surprise birthday card shower for Betty Moore.  Her birthday is on August 24th.  Birthday cards can be mailed to Betty at the following address:

Betty Moore
Crestview Healthcare Residence
1400 Lakeshore Drive 201A
Waco, TX 76708

We would like for Betty's mailbox to be full!

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"Therefore, since we are justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have obtained access to this grace in which we stand; and we boast in our hope of sharing the glory of God."  Romans 5:1-2
 
 
August 1, 2011
 
New Worship Schedule Begins This Sunday
 
This coming Sunday, August 7th, we will begin our new worship schedule.  Worship will be as follows:
 
8:15 a.m.
9:45 a.m.
11:00 a.m.
 
We are in the process of organizing a second Sunday school hour for children and adults for those who will be attending the 9:45 a.m. worship service.  We will talk more about the opportunities during the 9:45 a.m. worship service this Sunday.
 
Welcome To Central Class
 
This Sunday Rev. Brittain will be starting the Welcome To Central Class.  This class will run for four weeks and will cover topics such as: United Methodist history and doctrine, beliefs about baptism and communion, an understanding of the Bible, and ways to get connected at Central.  The class will meet each Sunday in August at 9:15 a.m. in the commons area of the church offices.  This class is perfect for those who have just joined the church or who might be thinking of joining.  It is also open to long-time members who might be interested in attending. 
 
Disciple Bible Study Luncheon/Information Session
 
This year our church will be offering long-term and short-term Disciple Bible study classes.  If you are interested in learning more about the studies and possibly participating in one, we will be having a luncheon on Sunday, August 14th immediately after the 11:00 a.m. worship service.  Disciple is a wonderful program for those wanting to engage in Bible study and be a part of a small group within the church.  Once we see who will be participating, we will schedule the classes based on the times that will work best for those attending. 

Have a great rest of the week.

In Christ,
Brad
 
July 27, 2011
 
Central UMC E-News

 

Party for Beth Underwood

Jan Wohlschlag will be hosting a party for Beth this Saturday, July 30th, at 4:00 p.m.  It will be at the Wohlschlag's home at 8932 Whippoorwill.  If you are a youth or connected with the youth group in any way, you are invited to come and show your appreciation for all that Beth has done for the youth ministry here at Central.  It is a swim party so bring your swimsuits.

UMCOR Mission Trip

This Sunday we have a group of seven adults who will be going on a mission trip to Baldwin, LA to work in the UMCOR warehouse.  UMCOR stands for United Methodist Committee on Relief and this organization sends out relief supplies throughout the United States and around the world in areas of need.  Thank you to all who contributed items for us to bring with us next week.  The group will leave this Sunday at 7:00 a.m. and return Friday, August 5th. 

New Worship Schedule

Just a reminder that our new worship schedule begins Sunday, August 7th.  Service times are as follows:

8:15 a.m.
9:45 a.m.
11:00 a.m.

HELP

Barbara Hickerson needs folks to help with food preparation on Sat. 07/30 around 11:00 AM.  The food will be disseminated on Sun. at Church Under The Bridge.

CENTRAL FAITH

There will be an open house at Central Faith on Aug 18th from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM

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"In everything do to others as you would have them do to you; for this is the law and the prophets."  Matthew 7:12

Have a great rest of the week.

In Christ,
Brad

 
July 11, 2011
 
Church Under the Bridge
Volunteers from our church will be providing the meal for Church Under the Bridge on Sunday, July 31st.  If you would like to help you may contact Barbara Hickerson at 254-799-8310

New Worship Schedule
Our new worship schedule begins Sunday, August 7th.  The schedule is as follows:

8:15 a.m. Worship
9:45 a.m. Worship
11:00 a.m. Worship

Evangelism Team
We are in the process of forming an evangelism team.  This team will serve in the following ways:
Greet members/guests on Sunday mornings (in the parking lot/inside the building)
Deliver gift bags to first-time guests
Participate in door-to-door invitations in neighborhoods as well as businesses
Send cards to guests
Pray

If you would like to be a part of this team and serve in any of these areas, please email me at bradbrittain@hotmail.com.  Once we have a list of those who would like to participate in these areas, we will have an organizational meeting.  Meeting to be announced later. 

Drive-In Movie -- This Friday!
This Friday we will be hosting a drive-in movie in the gym.  We will have hot dogs, popcorn, live musical entertainment, and will watch the movie Up!  Bring your kids/grandchildren and a lawn chair.  The fun begins at 6:00 p.m.




"Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust consume and where thieves break in and steal; but store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust consumes and where thieves do not break in and steal.  For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also."  Matthew 6:19-21

Have a great week!

In Christ,
Brad
 

July 6, 2011
 
 

New Book Club

We are beginning a new book club this month.  Our first book will be "Unconditional: The Call of Jesus to Radical Forgiveness" by Brian Zahnd.  We will have our discussion of the book on Sunday, August 14th at 7:00 p.m. (place to be determined).  This is an excellent and powerful book on the topic of forgiveness.  You may purchase the book from any major book retailer.  If you are interested in being part of the group, simply purchase the book, read it before August 14th, and show up for our discussion.  I look forward to our first meeting and will be recommending books throughout the year.
 
New Worship Schedule

As of Sunday, August 7th our new worship schedule will be as follows:

8:15 a.m.
9:45 a.m.
11:00 a.m.

We are making plans to offer children, youth, and adult Sunday school during the 11:00 worship service time for those who might be attending the 9:45 a.m. service.

Central UMC Website

We will be posting all of our ministries/activities on our church website.  You may go to www.cumcwaco.com to check out all that is happening at Central.  Special thanks to Dwyane Warneke for managing our website!  

Men's Retreat -- October 21/22

We will be having a Men's Retreat Friday October 21st and Saturday October 22nd.  The retreat will be held at Stillwater Lodge in Glen Rose, TX.  Stillwater is owned and operated by our Central Texas Conference camp (Glen Lake Camp).  We will begin our retreat with dinner on Friday evening at Stillwater.  On Saturday we will have a variety of activities to choose from -- golf, fishing, nap!, etc.  The cost for the retreat is $75 per person and includes lodging, dinner on Friday night and a full breakfast Saturday morning.  We will return home late Saturday afternoon.  If you would like to attend the retreat, please email Jane Keahey at janekeahey@hot.rr.com and she will get you registered.  Checks may be made payable to Central UMC Memo: Men's Retreat.  The deadline to register is Thursday, October 13th.     

Drive In Movie At Central!

On Friday evening, July 15th, we will be having a drive-in movie.   The fun begins at 6:00 p.m. with a meal, musical entertainment, and the movie UP!, complete with a Looney Tunes short feature.  Bring your friends/family and lawn chairs.  The movie will be indoors in our gym. 

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"Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; and there are varieties of services, but the same Lord; and there are varieties of activities, but it is the same God who activates all of them in everyone."  I Corinthians 12:4-6

In Christ,
Brad
 
June 27, 2011
 
 

New Worship Schedule -- Beginning Sunday, August 7th

On Sunday, August 7th we will have a new worship schedule.  The schedule will be as follows each Sunday:

8:15 a.m.
9:45 a.m.
11:00 a.m.

Vacation Bible School Begins Tonight!

Our Vacation Bible School begins tonight from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.  Come and join us and invite others!

Game Night -- Tuesday

Join us on Tuesday night this week for our game night.  The fun begins at 7:00 p.m.  Game night is every other Tuesday at 7:00 p.m. 

New Book Club

We will be starting a new book club in which we will read a book and then get together to discuss what we have read.  Our first book will be "Unconditional?  The Call of Jesus to Radical Forgiveness" by Brian Zahnd.  You may purchase the book through any major book retailer -- Amazon.com, Barnes and Noble, etc.  We will meet to discuss the book on Sunday, August 14th at 7:00 p.m.  We will announce the location of our meeting on the 14th in the coming weeks.  This is one of the best books I've read on the topic of forgiveness. 

St. Jude's Trike-A-Thon

This Friday the children from Central Faith will be riding their bikes to raise funds for St. Jude's Children's Hospital.  We will be having ice cream as a part of the event.  If you would like to help you may do so by donating ice cream (homemade or other).  You may bring your ice cream to the church on Thursday.  The children will be riding in the morning and afternoon.

Parking Lot Greeters

If you would like to be a parking lot greeter to help welcome visitors and members on Sunday mornings, please email me at bradbrittain@hotmail.com or call me at 254-625-2435.  We would like to have a few people in the parking lot before each worship service to greet people as they come into our building. 

Thank You Youth/Supporters of Youth

I wanted to thank our youth group for a great meal and conversation last night.  We have a great group of kids and parents and will be planning some good things for our youth in the coming year!




"We know that all things work together for good for those who love God, who are called according to His purpose."  Romans 8:28

In Christ,
Brad
 
 
June 22, 2011
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Questions Jesus Asked

This Sunday we will continue our sermon series "Questions Jesus Asked".  We will discuss Jesus' question --
"Why do you see the speck in your neighbor's eye, but do not notice the log in your own eye?" 

Marie Linder's 90th Birthday Party

Just a reminder that Marie Linder's 90th birthday party will be this Saturday from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.
in the fellowship hall. Marie's family wanted to invite everyone in the church to come and celebrate with the family. 
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"In everything do to others as you would have them do to you; for this is the law and the prophets."  Matthew 7:12

In Christ,
Brad
 
 
 
June 21, 2011
 
Church Family,
Alisha, Ben, Andrew, and I wanted to thank everyone for the welcome on Sunday.  We really enjoyed the worship services and having the opportunity to meet you.  I will be sending emails to the congregation on a weekly basis.  These emails will highlight various upcoming activities/ministries.  For a complete list of activities and ministries you may go to our website www.cumcwaco.com
 
Vacation Bible School
 
Just a reminder that our Vacation Bible School will begin Monday, June 27th.  VBS will run from June 27th through July 1st from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.  If you would like to serve at VBS, please contact Brenda at the church office.  Thank you to all who will be helping! 
 
UMCOR Mission Trip Planning Meeting
 
This Wednesday we will have a planning meeting for those attending the mission trip to Baldwin, LA.  The trip is scheduled for July 31st through August 5th.  If you are interested in learning more about the trip and are considering attending, please join us.  We will meet at 6:00 p.m. in the library.
 
Marie Linder's 90th Birthday Celebration
 
The family of Marie Linder will be hosting a birthday celebration at the church this Saturday from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.  Marie wanted to make sure you were all invited. 
 
Youth Planning Meeting / Dinner
 
This Sunday evening we will be having a planning meeting with our youth, parents of youth, and anyone interested in serving with our youth ministry.  We will begin our meeting with dinner at 6:00 p.m. in the fellowship hall. 
 
 
New Sermon Series
 
We began a new sermon series last Sunday -- "Questions Jesus Asked".  Very often Jesus would ask those who followed him or desired to follow him questions, but they were not your run of the mill questions.  They were questions that demanded reflection and a response.  This Sunday Jesus' question is "Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother's eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye?" (Matthew 7:3)   


"Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.  For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened."  Matthew 7:7-8
 
Have a great week.
 
In Christ,
Brad