The Outlook

an edition of

The United Methodist Reporter

Two Sections

My Librarian is a Camel! | 8A

Section A

In Loving Memory | 8A

Bike-n-Ride Experience | 4A

909160 Vol. 159 No. 26 October 26, 2012

chalk talk
BY DR. KENNETH W. CHALKER

SUNDAY MORNING FORUM

October 28, 9:30amOur MENS groups quarterly Cleveland Speaks forum welcomes Cuyahoga County Executive Ed FitzGerald. Before becoming Cuyahoga Countys first County Executive, Mr. FitzGerald served as a Congressional staff member, FBI Special Agent, Assistant County Prosecutor, City Councilman and Mayor of Lakewood, Ohio. He will speak about his experience as the countys first Executive and his plans for the future.

COMING EVENTS
Mark your calendar now

All of us in her family, as well as Mom herself, had come to know that, because of her diagnosed cancer, she had about five more years to live among us. Because of the diagnosis, we all started thinking of what life would be like without Mom. Truth be told though, we did not dwell on such thoughts. All of the focus was on treatments, stages of care-giving, efforts to achieve a hoped-for remission and dealing with building in all the necessary supports as Moms physical abilities declined. Through it all, while the reality of the eventual outcome was always on our minds and lurking in our hearts, we did not dwell on such thoughts. In the midst of all this, there were conversations with Mom about eventual disposition of cherished things, the dismantling of the home place, plans for final arrangements and all those attendant matters. But, we did not dwell on such plans and on such thoughts. Death paid its visit to Mom this past week. Death came too early. But, Moms cancer had made her life very, very difficult and painful. So, in one very limited sense death was welcomed. In response, we put all the plans for caring for the many details into motion. It has been a very busy time. Amidst the busyness, the reality of life without Mom, while certainly now forcibly prominent on our minds and hearts, was able to be given limits. It was the evening after a high and wonderful day of celebrating Moms life, greeting cherished family and friends, singing at Moms graveside before her bodys internment, and having a time of reunion around a dinner tableit was after all these things that grief made its first cold and Continued on back page

~ Imagine, Inspire, Invest ~

During this falls stewardship campaign, each Sunday in October has included a testimonial from someone in our congregation who is the direct beneficiary of a program funded by our church or knows first-hand of persons who are benefiting from our programs. On October 7, we heard from Edna Duffy, Director of our UCUMC Liturgical Dance program and creative founder and leader of DuffyLit Dance Studios established in 1984 and now located in our church building. Edna shared the comments of several of her dancers who are members of our church family and are fulfilling a life-long ambition to dance and express their spirituality in ways they never before had an opportunity to do. Fourteen-year-old David Wheatley spoke eloquently and energetically on October 14 about the many programs offered through our Educational classes for children and youth and the impact these opportunities made on his life, including his recent confirmation experience. October 21, we heard from two high school seniors who have attended our Monday- and Thursday-night Neighborhood Basketball program, expressing their appreciation that our church provides this activity in a safe and welcoming environment. Bob Taylor, our interim Finance Chairperson, also presented to our Sunday congregation the fact that contributions are lagging behind last years gifts by about $40,000. He offered that this years anticipated budget is under-supported by about $90,000, due primarily to an initial over-optimistic projection and to some loss of pledged giving, as a result of relocations, deaths and economic hardship. At the moment, we have one place from which to draw funds to make up any financial shortfall: the churchs endowed or invested funds. It is projected that next year, if the income from our East 30th Street property is not replaced after June when the lease with Cleveland State University and the Cleveland Metropolitan Schools ends, the amount well withdraw from our endowment will be about $250,000. Obviously, the church cannot sustain these kinds of losses very long. Our staff and church officers are doing several things simultaneously to reverse this situation: 1. Developing strategies for growing church membership and attendance in an effort to expand our financial base. 2. Proactively trying to lease or sell the East 30th Street property as quickly as possible. 3. Exploring partnerships with University Circle agencies that might help us apply for and receive financial grants. 4. Controlling expenses to the best of our ability without cutting staff and programs unless and until other options are unavailable. 5. Increasing our communication with the congregation about our programs and needs. 6. Asking for your increased financial assistance. Giving from our congregation is now about 64% of our income. We need to make every effort to move that percentage higher. 7. Lastly, and most importantly, we are praying for Gods guidance and ask that you would do the same. As we near Pledge Sunday on November 4, we need to imagine the possibilities God can accomplish through UCUMC and inspire ourselves and others to further reach out to our church family, neighborhood and beyond. If each one of us can invest our time, talent and financial resources to the best of our abilities, we will keep this vision alive. Kay Hogg, Director of Administration

November 4Pledge Sunday. Potluck following worship. Well make holiday cards for veterans residing at the VA Medical Center in the Circle. November 11New Member Luncheon, following worship November 18A service of Thanksgiving December 9Christmas Potluck following worshipa time of festivity, food, fun and fellowship. December 16Nativity Art Tour of the Art Museum with Dr. Chalker, Kermit Greeneisen and Saundy Stemen December 23Sunday worship includes the cantata, Come Ye Faithful: A Service of Carols by Hal H. Hopson. This lesson in carols is based on the theme, Witnesses to the Nativity. It includes nine familiar carols, such as O Come, All Ye Faithful, Joy to the World and Silent Night, and our Chancel Choir will be joined in this performance by pipe organ, string quartet, handbells and percussion. December 24, Christmas EveCandlelight Services at 4pm (family friendly), 8pm (traditional service), and 11pm (meditative theme). Our churchs GayStraight Alliance, in cooperation with Clevelands Human Rights Campaign (HRC), present the acclaimed, awardwinning documentary, For the Bible Tells Me Soan analysis of what the Bible actually teaches about homosexuality and whether being gay is really incompatible with Christian teaching. Reserve Tuesday, November 13, from 7pm to 9pm to view and discuss this fantastic film at the church. Well have a large screen for viewing, and movie snacks will be provided. Mark your calendar today!

VOTE!
Tuesday, November 6

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THE UNITED METHODIST REPORTER

OCTOBER 26, 2012

In loving memory of
Vernita Chalker NailSeptember 26, 1924October 10, 2012 Our church family was saddened with the passing of Vernita Nail, mother of Dr. Chalker and beloved member of this church. She lost her lengthy battle with cancer but has left behind a lifetime of love and service that will be celebrated for generations. Born in Avon, Vernita graduated from Mount Union College with a degree in music education. She taught in several Ohio school districts and served as church organist and music director most of her life. In 1946 she married Rev. Wayne Chalker and mothered three children, including our pastor. Sadly, she lost her husband, Wayne, in 1959. Yet, she retained her positive, faith-filled attitude and pushed on as a single mother. In 1963 Vernita married Charles Nail, a widower with three children, and together they raised a blended family of eight. Then, Charles died in 1995, leaving Vernita to once again adopt her life must go on approach to life. In the years that followed, she was able to share her nurturing spirit with grandchildren and great-grandchildren who found it easy to mirror her love for them. That genuine love, along with her interaction with and support for the members of this church, will be forever cherished. Dean CoxDecember 24, 1937October 10, 2012 University Circle UMC lost one of its most caring and involved stalwarts on October 10 as Dean Cox passed into life eternal. His involvement with both Epworth-Euclid and First Church gave him unique perspective into the needs of both congregations as they merged in 2010. Born in Tuscarawas, Ohio, Dean graduated from the Western Reserve School of Architecture in 1962. He and Barbara married in 1966the same year they joined Epworth-Euclid UMC. For 30 years he worked with an architectural firm that, among other projects, oversaw numerous additions and changes to a hospital in Parkersburg, WV, who preferred Deans direction. Dean culminated his career with the Cleveland firm of Collins, Gordon, Bostwick, which he joined in 1979 and with which in 1989 he became a principal. He led the charge to rebuild our buildings front steps, establish the north parking lot, install the elevator and propose plans for a new entrance on the north sideplans which still stand as part of our expansion. During a period of transition in 2001, Dean shared his energy and expertise with the congregation at First UMC, serving on the Board of Trustees and becoming involved in the life of the church. It was only fitting that he would play a key role in the decision to merge both churches to become who we are today. And every time we see the Moravian Star which hangs above the sanctuary of University Circle UMC, we can be mindful that it was actually assembled by Dean himself as yet another example of Deans deep love for this church, where he will be memorialized on Saturday, November 10 at 3pm. Indeed, Dean will be missed, and his unselfish contributions to the life of University Circle United Methodist Church will never be forgotten.

Wednesday Wisdom Series

in review Dr. Chalkers October 3 pre-election class, Dont Be a Christian Voter Follow Jesus Instead, featured his views on how the Bible has been misused in political statements during this presidential election. The discussion debunked published Biblical interpretations that promote narrow religious agendas designed to instruct people how to vote as Christians. October 10, Dr. Kenneth Vaux, Presbyterian minister, author, teacher and founder/director of the Ethics Center at Garrett Evangelical Theological Seminary in Illinois, offered a thought-provoking look at how the faith practices of both presidential candidates inform their political theology, social ethics and political programs.

Clevelands former NASA director, Dr. Julian Earls, spoke to the congregation, October 14, about the positive roll that church has played in his life.

Willow School Needs Tutors

Volunteer Opportunities BIKE-N-RIDE PROVES PERFECT

It was a perfect fall day. Perfect skies, perfect temperatures, perfect colors, perfect settings all along the Cuyahoga Valley National Park trail, as a group of 11 of our adults and kids alike climbed on their bikes and ventured forth from Brecksville to Peninsula to experience a UCUMC RAP eventa Random Act of Programmingthis one sponsored by Jim Hogg. [Sponsor your own unique RAP! Ask at the church office.] Remnant reminders of the Ohio and Erie Canal, with its locks and channels and rich history, became points of interestand rest along the way, as did the Boston Mill Store canal boat museum, Pure gas station and nearby coffee shop. Biking into Peninsula, the group was welcomed by strumming and dulcimer musicians on store porches throughout the town. Lunch at the Winking Lizard became a time to learn more about each other; to share stories and interests, kid kidsgreat kids, confirm relationships and affirm the diversity and character of our church. Plus, the food was just what we needed. Walking around Peninsula offered not only a chance to experience falls sensual pleasures but the music of musicians who love what they do. Every shop entrance and porch featured a different expression of talentsome with loyal audiences. A walk inside each store revealed a myriad of offerings. And a choice purchase to remember this perfect event went home with many. While some biked back to Brecksville, many had their bikes lifted aboard the next northbound Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad train, then climbed on board to ride through the variegated valley north to where the day started. One highlight: arriving at ten in the morning at the Cuyahoga Valley train station adjoining our starting point, our bikers heard a distinctive whistle and chugging sound just up the tracks. And what came around the corner but the visiting and vibrant, even boisterous OC 1293 steam engine, countless cars in tow, whistles blaring and smoke billowing skyward, filling the valley with magical memories of times past. Cameras captured and everyone cheered. It was a perfect fall day.

Willow Elementary School has received assistance in many forms from our church community for more than a decade. And again this school year, they need our tutoring assistance. These young people urgently need attention and assistance in order to grow into productive lives. If you would like to learn more about how to reach out and help, please contact the church office or Dan Maly: dnmaly@yahoo.com or 440-235-2614.

Neighborhood Lunch Program Needs Help, Food

The last Sunday of each month, our Neighborhood Lunch Program serves a free meal in the Great Hall to those in our city in need of food. Whether you contribute menu items or your time, your help with this caring and rewarding effort will be greatly appreciated. Contact Jennifer Bier at 216-707-0329 or j_bier@hotmail.com for more information. The October 14 Sunday Morning Forum speaker, sponsored by UCUMCs Gay-Straight Alliance, was Marianne Buccini, a counselor/associate professor at Tri-C, who shared her familys personal story of her sons coming out and their subsequent journey. Marianne is an active advocate of Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG), whose volunteers have worked to foster an environment of understanding and acceptance within families in the Greater Cleveland community.

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THE UNITED METHODIST REPORTER

OCTOBER 26, 2012

Youth Education News

My Librarian is a Camel! Thanks to a generous contribution from the MENS Group, each child in our Sunday School class received a gift to celebrate World Communion Sunday on Oct 7. My Librarian Is a Camel and Biblioburro: A True Story from Columbia are two wonderful stories about how ful t i b books in unusual libraries in other countries are brought to children around the world. We read these stories to the children in Sunday School and have learned that books are delivered by boats, wheelbarrows, donkey carts, elephants and even camels! The stories helped us recognize that, although the lives of children in other countries may seem very different from our own, we share many of the same joys about and a love for reading. Each child received one of these two books to take home and share with their family. Huge thanks to the MENS Group for their gift to the children of UCUMC! Sunday School Kids Explore Life in Bible Times There were no iPods or PlayStations. No Giant Eagle, McDonalds or gas stations. No childrens books, rec centers or movies on DVD. No juice boxes, mac n cheese or pizza. What did people DO in Bible times? During the coming weeks, our Sunday School class (K5th grade) will explore what life was like for children and their families almost 4,000 years ago. Children will actively experience some of the daily activities that engaged the people of the Old Testament weaving, making pottery, cooking, playing games and caring for animals. As our study continues, we will be learning about some of the animals that provided transportation, food and clothing in Bible times. On November 4, a local farm family will be visiting us with some of their goats. We will learn about the care these animals require and children will have an opportunity to interact with them up close! Another aspect of daily life in Bible times that we will experience is storytelling. Children know that many of the stories collected in our Bible were shared by word of mouth for centuries before they were written down. In upcoming weeks, we will welcome UCUMC member Alice Palda to our class to share her gift of storytelling with us. Children enjoy learning, talking, eating and playing together at UCUMC . Please bring a child you love to Sunday School and join us as we learn about everyday life in Bible times! Dr. Amy Wheatley, Director of Education

GRACENOTES
B Y N AT H A N M O T TA
Director of Music & Arts

The fall season at University Circle United Methodist Church holds many moving and uplifting worship experiences. Starting with All Saints Day, through Thanksgiving Sunday, and everything in between, Music and Arts have a plate full of things to be presented as we move closer to Advent. Here is just a taste of whats to come: Sunday, October 28: You wont want to miss this Sunday, featuring the music of Aaron Copland and a moving arrangement of the timeless Be Thou My Vision. Sunday, November 4All Saints Day: A mixture of traditional All Saints Day music blended in the UCUMC way with jazz in the spirit of the New Orleans jazz mass tradition. The Liturgical Dancers help process us into a time of Communion. Sunday, November 11: Music will feature

both Ralph Vaughan Williams and Peter Gabriel (yes, were serious). Sunday, November 18Folk Music Sunday: Join us for a unique worship experience of acoustic guitars and uplifting song in the styles of both secular and sacred folk music. This is sure to be a deeply moving service. Dont miss it! Sunday, November 25Thanksgiving Sunday: Come, Ye Thankful People, Come to celebrate and give thanks with your UCUMC family and hear both our Chancel and Gospel Choirs sing! Come and participate in worship this month, and dont be afraid to even jump in and join in with one of our groups. All are welcome, all the time! The Chancel Choir is open to seasonal singers for the Advent Cantata, which this year will be a lessons and carols service on December 23, featuring string ensemble, woodwinds, bells and more! Join us!

Art of the Nativity Museum Tour

Sunday, December 16, 1:30pm Save this date for a very special Advent program! Spend an enlightening afternoon at the Cleveland Museum of Art, where we will view Art of the Nativity. Our personal tour will be led by Kermit Greeneisen and Saundra Stemen, members of our congregation and experienced museum docents. Among the Medieval and Renaissance art they will highlight are works by Veronese, Botticelli, Poussin, El Greco, Lippi, and Reni. Dr. Chalker will accompany us, providing Biblical commentary and insight. Please plan now to join us for this informative and inspiring program as we consider art of the Nativity and prepare our hearts and minds for Christmas.

chalk talk
Continued from front page

powerful visit. To be sure, there were tears of great sorrow during the days of Moms dying. But, for me at least, grief showed up in all its fullness that night on a long ride home. There can be times when death might be a welcomed visitor in our physical lives. But I dont think that grief can ever be a friend. Grief comes to us all and steals into our hearts sometimes all at onceand sometimes on occasions when we least expect it. But, grief, whenever it comes and no matter how long it stays to visit, is not a friend. All of us have met grief. All of us have lasting effects from the encounter. Whether the death of a friend or loved one is sudden or whether we have had the time to prepare (a strange concept, I think), grief shows up and continues to make unannounced visits in our lives. I put the visits of grief in a category similar

THE UNIVERSITY CIRCLE OUTLOOK

printed every four weeks as an edition of THE UNITED METHODIST REPORTER for University Circle United Methodist Church Dr. Kenneth W. Chalker, Senior Pastor 1919 E. 107th St., Cleveland, OH 44106 www.churchinthecircle.com; 216/421-1200 Outlook Editor: Jim Hogg outlook@churchinthecircle.com Photographers: Jeff Day, David Hughes, Brian Misch Editorial Staff: K. Shamp, E. Prince, C. Day, M. Abele

to a Jehovahs Witness Team knocking on the door on a Saturday afternoon, only worse. For, while a person could pretend not to be home, the same tactic wont work when its grief that comes knocking. So, in dealing with grief, I think it is important to be, as much as possible, spiritually ready for the possible visit and interruption. Here are some things to think about that I find helpful in being spiritually ready for grief s visits: 1. All of us, physically, are terminally ill. The end is just timing. Are we spending quality time being grateful for and enhancing life? 2. Each of us is far more than flesh and blood. Our essential selves, our spirits, are eternal. We are heirs to Gods great Kingdom that is here and now as well as there and then. Are we involved in a spiritual exercise program? 3. The message of hope, promise and purpose in living that Jesus gave and gives is real. All other stuff wears out, burns out or becomes just plain boring. 4. Make a mental list of times that circumstances or stories made you laugh really loud. Write those times down. Go through the list if grief stays too long. Its a good way to show grief the door. 5. Remember that the late hymn writer, Natalie Sleeth, is right: in our end is our beginning; in our time, infinity; in our doubt, there is believing; in our life, eternity. In our death(or in the death of those we love)a resurrection; at the last, a victory, unrevealed until its season, something God alone can see. Against these things grief does not have any staying power. And we can be glad.

Deadline for the next Outlook issue is Monday, November 12, 2012 outlook@churchinthecircle.com

A B FT: Liturgical Dancers

Cultural Revelations in Liturgical Dance

On October 7, World Communion Sunday, UCUMC experienced dance movement representing both eastern and western cultures. The opening Traditional Sacred Dance set to music from East Indian culture, presented by Sanjib Bhatttacharya, transported us for a moment into the heart of eastern culture. UCUMC dancers then offered the processional, choreographed to the beat of western drums, with a potpourri of costumes. And later, the offertory choreography was set to music indigenous to our country: the spiritual. Our church opens its doors to many cultures. And it is essential that we show evidence of cultural inclusion in all components of worship. Our Liturgical Dancers embody this inclusiveness as they next present choreography combining elements of sacred dance from eastern and western cultures, designed by Edna Duffy and Sanjib Bhattacharya, and collaborating on Sunday, November 4, to present in worship: Motivation for the Choreography. With whole-body energy, we offer our prayers and gifts to God as we are blessed by His holy communion. Sanjib, a visiting artist in the Cleveland Foundations International Fusion Project, will again be our guest dancer, participating in ensemble with the UCUMC Liturgical Dancers. Expand your experience in lifejoin us in worship. Edna Duffy, Director of Liturgical Dance