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COMPASSIONATE FRIENDS:
Prescott United Methodist Church’s ministry to parents who have experienced the death of a child (of any age) is affiliated with the national organization of Compassionate Friends. The Compassionate Friends is a mutual assistance self-help organization offering friendship and understanding to bereaved parents. The primary purpose is to assist parents in the positive resolution of the grief experienced upon the death of a child (of any age) and to support their efforts to achieve physical and emotional health. Rev. Carol Mumford leads PUMC’s ministry in this area and welcomes all bereaved parents, grandparents and siblings. Prescott's Compassionate Friends meets on the second Tuesday of each month, at 1:30 p.m. in Mary's Parlor/206 at the church.
NURSING HOME PROGRAMS:
A large and important part of this church family lives in Care Centers or Assisted Living Centers of various types. This church also considers it a priority to serve the many in need throughout the extended community, as we are able. Because of all this, NURSING HOME PROGRAMS are provided in places of care. Eleanor Sigmon coordinates the programs that are arranged through each location's Activities Coordinator, and scheduled throughout the year. Some of the church's retired clergy and other talented and dedicated volunteers lead the brief worship services, assisted by talented church family musicians who share their gifts to bring the brightness of music to the varied services. It's a gift this Body of Christ can give, one that keeps on giving as Christ's love is shared with those in spiritual need.
CHAPEL COMMUNION:
HOLY COMMUNION is a time to come together as the Body of Christ, to partake of the “Bread of Heaven” and the “Cup of Salvation,” to celebrate this community of faith, to honor our discipleship as Christians, to be in fellowship as was the Last Supper of Jesus and his disciples, sharing the bread and fruit of the vine…and so much more! “Do this in remembrance of me,” Jesus said, as he prepared for his final days. Communion is a monthly experience at every first weekend’s worship services, and is offered in a brief service all other weekends at 10:10 a.m. Sundays in Rasch Chapel. Marion Gardner is the coordinator who enlists the church’s retired clergy to lead the CHAPEL COMMUNION services. You’re invited to the table in this deeply spiritual event!
CONNECTIONS:
CONNECTIONS is a name that includes a wide variety of ministries in this church. Major divisions under Connections include Hospitality, Fellowship, Recreation, Publicity and related areas. Through Connections, people are welcomed into the church, provided with information and relationships, oriented to the uniqueness of this church, and received into membership. At the same time, they are guided and nurtured into fellowship opportunities, service choices, recreation, and linked with other ministries of the church, such as spiritual growth opportunities, caregiving and outreach projects. Connections is the connecting link between the first encounter with this church and total involvement for each person, actively spreading the love of Christ in all that they do!
CAREGIVING MINISTRIES
Caregiving is an important and varied ministry area at Prescott UMC. Stephen Ministry is a very specific type of one-on-one, Christian caregiving that provides confidential support through any type of crisis. Referrals to Stephen Ministry are coordinated through Pastor Carol, while Donna is overall coordinator for the program. They work with a team of specially trained Stephen Leaders and over 50 Stephen Ministers. Caregiving is also accomplished through Outreach Ministries and includes a variety of types of direct assistance, such as Caring Friends Callers, Compassionate Friends and Circle of Friends' support groups, Sunshine ministry, business help, special needs assistance, and the spiritual caregiving areas of Home Communion and Nursing Home Programs. Other caregiving includes the Prayer Ministries of Discipleship Ministries, including the All Church Prayer Chain and the Thursday Prayer and Study Group. Prayer Quilts and health-related programs are ministries of the church's Health Council. Hospital visitations are accomplished daily and two Pastoral Assistants do homebound visitations, as part of the church staff. There's still more--too many to list in this brief mention. Contact Pastor Carol for additional information.
WEB MINISTRY
The church’s website, www.prescottumc.com is a primary source of information and communication for the whole church and the community that we serve. The website reflects the mission and vision of the church, as well as specific information about programs, classes, opportunities to serve and special events. If you have an item to share on the site, contact Scott at webmaster@prescottumc.com. Remember to check the site frequently, too, for new additions and changes.
WALK TO EMMAUS
Based on the biblical walk with Jesus on the road to Emmaus, the special event called WALK TO EMMAUS is a deeply spiritual weekend retreat created to strengthen and enhance one’s relationship with Christ. Special presentations, discussions and some surprises are a part, while men and women attend separate events. Enrollment is required for these weekends that will be held at this church in June. For more information, contact any of your three pastors.
DISCIPLESHIP MINISTRY
As one of the major ministry areas at this church, Discipleship Ministries covers a vast variety of Christian Education opportunities. Discipleship Ministry subdivisions are Children, Family, Youth, Young Adults, Adult, and other “Continuing Tasks.” Joan Fleming is the new chairperson for Discipleship that covers such programs as Christian Believer, Christianity & Islam, Disciple Bible Study, Sidewalk Sunday School, Godly Play; Koinonia, Faith and Spirit Builders Sunday School classes, Youth groups, children’s seasonal activities, the church library, seasonal devotional publications—and much more! Spiritual growth is the goal, with welcoming fellowship and caring woven throughout.
THE PREVIEW
A ministry all to itself, the PREVIEW, the church's monthly newsletter, is full of informative and helpful articles for everyone in the church, from new visitor to long-time member. Created to bring up-to-date information on what's happening, the PREVIEW tells of the latest classes, service projects, programs, special events, and more. The PREVIEW is a way for everyone to respond to God's call to faithful service and spiritual growth, a way to honor one's commitment to God and faith. The invitation is extended to choose from the many ways we can serve and live out the church's mission statement to fulfill the gospel and create disciples for Jesus Christ. Click here for copies of the recent previews.
CHILD CARE MINISTRIES
Families would want to know that supportive child care is available for many church events, at no charge. Ages 5 and under are provided a clean, well-organized, comfortable room of their own, a place filled with toys and other amenities that provide a great environment. The service is provided for all three worship services, on a regular basis, and many other events upon advance request. Rose Ann Chapman is the church's Child Care Supervisor, and all nursery staff have been formally screened according to the church's Child Leader Protection Policies.
HOME TOUCH
There are many very important people in our church family who are not able to attend weekly worship services, due to illness, mobility problems, chronic conditions, or other. For this reason, we attempt to pass on the message of “We love you and miss you” in a variety of ways. HOME TOUCH is just one special way we do this! HOME TOUCH is a weekly mailed publication that contains meaningful stories, scripture and other inspiration, often word or Bible puzzles, and more. HOME TOUCH is a way of saying “We care.” If you know of someone who should be receiving this mailing (at no charge), please contact the church office. Extra copies are always available at the Connection Center, for those who are interested and able to attend services.
PRAYER AND STUDY GROUP
Prayer is a central element in every ministry in this church. One small but dedicated weekly group gives it particular emphasis as they do intercessory prayer for those in need in the church and beyond. As part of a gathered group that prays over the worship prayer requests and other prayer submissions, the PRAYER AND STUDY GROUP also incorporates spiritual growth studies into the time together. Hymnody—the meaning of hymns—is the current topic, yet study topics change as material is covered. All interested are invited to join, from 10 ‘til 11:30 a.m. Thursdays, in Mary’s Parlor/206.
HEARING ASSISTANCE DEVICES
Many people in the congregation and community are hearing-impaired to some extent. Everyone should know there is help available. The ushers have individual adjustable hearing assistance devices available for loan, on request. Those who use them are enthusiastic about the difference they make for a wide range of hearing losses. Many have chosen to purchase their own personal unit and the ushers can provide necessary information. There are additional adjustable speakers that transfer sanctuary sound to Mary’s Parlor/206, Martha’s Kitchen/209, the infant “Cry” Room that adjoins Mary’s Parlor, and the narthex, so that anyone seated in these areas can easily be a part of a worship service. These are just a few of the many ways in which special needs are addressed in this church.
HISTORICAL COMMITTEE
Prescott United Methodist is a church with a lot of history. That history began in 1870 when a circuit-riding preacher, Alexander Groves, came to Prescott and started the beginnings of our church. The church’s Historical Committee, under the leadership of Becky Geiler and Sylvia Neeley, works hard to find, organize and maintain information related to the church’s heritage. Rev. Stan Brown wrote articles that you have read in the “Beacon of Hope” campaign and works actively with the committee—as do others. “The oldest Protestant church in the Arizona Territory” has much to preserve. Visit the plaque in the courtyard to see!
UNITED METHODIST WOMEN
An active group of women in this church are busy doing purposeful work, in the name of Christ, while enjoying great fellowship and fun in a caring, supportive group. The purpose of this community of women is to “know God and to experience freedom as whole persons through Jesus Christ; to develop a creative supportive fellowship; and to expand concepts of mission through participation in the global ministries of the church.” All this they do well, and contribute to local missions as well. In this church, most of the work is done through three women’s circles, Rebekah, Lydia and Esther. At Christmas time, they will all gather for the annual Red Candle Tea. All women in the church are invited to join with them at that time. New people are especially welcome!
CABORCA OUTREACH
While the City of Prescott has a Sister City to Caborca, Mexico, Prescott United Methodist Church has had a relationship with the Methodist Church in Caborca for over ten years. The friendship with Templo El Buen Pastor (Church of the Good Shepherd) has included annual mission trips to the city and they, in turn, have been guests in many of our church family homes. Related projects have been everything from building a playground, constructing a fellowship hall, painting the sanctuary and exterior, and other refurbishing. Additional assistance has included the Pastor's much-needed surgery, housing provisions; salary, insurance and telephone support; dental work for many, and a medical mission that included a variety of screening and treatment options, with many in the Prescott community contributing. Meals and lives have been shared, and the 2007 volunteer team celebrated a special anniversary with the Caborca church, in the project originally named "Los Amigos del Corazon." This church has sent over 70 people throughout the years, serving Christ to return never the same for the experience.
FINANCE
The church has a number of functional ministry areas that contribute to the ministry and discipleship goals of the church in the way they operate. The term Ministry is used to define the unique method of approach in the church. Finance Ministry is structured to provide support to all the ministry areas of the church, by establishing a budget and ensuring the necessary finances and protective safeguards are in place to maintain the church's overall ministry in the community. Finance is additionally responsible for ensuring the accountability and accuracy of money-handling and record-keeping for the overall church, as well as monitoring and adherence to budget areas. We are thankful for the committed and responsible work done by the Finance Committee.
OUTREACH MINISTRIES
Probably the greatest area of involvement in this church is the Outreach, or mission, area. People choose to serve in well over a hundred different ways that feed, care for, clothe, house, or help in other ways. The Caregiving arm of Outreach Ministries reaches out to church family members who are homebound or ill, while others are involved worldwide, through the AMOR project in Tijuana, Caborca mission, Ethiopian orphanage assistance, and more There is an area for each person in the church to become involved in. Simply pass the word on to the office or Connection Center, if you'd like to hear more! It's exciting to make a difference.
BLOOD PRESSURE CHECKS
The church's Health Council contributes to "body and soul" wholeness in various ways. One very important ministry is provided by retired medical persons, mostly nurses, in the church. Every second weekend of the month, anyone may get a free blood pressure check at one of two times immediately after the 5 p.m. Saturday evening service, or between the two Sunday morning worship services. The Sat. check is in a corner of the narthex, while Sunday morning's is in Mary's Parlor (rm 206). Blood Pressure Checks are one more way we can provide care to others. Plan to take care of yourself!
OFFICE MINISTRY
Many in the church may not realize what an important center of actual ministry the church office is. Quite often the “first-line” of entry to the church, the office receives phone calls, greets all who enter, assists with tasks, supports programs, enlists caregiving, provides information, and much more, to just generally “communicate the church,” within and beyond the church doors. “Open hearts, open minds, open doors,” is the overall church slogan, one that influences all that we do. Carol Thorne, as the church receptionist, is generally the first person one encounters in an office contact, while the office LOVs (Loyal Office Volunteers) provide needed additional support and information dissemination. The church office is one more way of spreading Christ’s love to the needy world.
SPIRITUAL GROWTH RESOURCES
This church has a multitude of spiritual growth resources, including many that are available in the narthex rack and church library. Paul’s Stacks, as the library is called, has a variety of publications, but four that are available regularly are: Alive Now! A contemporary compilation of poetry, prose and scripture on a theme, issued bimonthly; The Upper Room, a daily devotional, published bimonthly that includes scripture and a related prayer; DevoZine, published bimonthly for and by teens; and Pockets, a bimonthly publication for elementary age children, that includes submissions from children. In addition to these, there’s generally a publication created by this church family available, too! All are available for the taking, and donations to cover costs are always welcome. Plan to take advantage of these inspirational writings!
HEALTH MINISTRIES
A variety of Health Ministries are generally functioning, at various times, in this church. Previously, a Parish Nurse worked closely with the Health Council, the planning group for Health Ministries. While there is currently no Parish Nurse, the Council continues to function and sponsors a variety of related ministries. Each second weekend of the month, blood pressures are taken by retired nurses upstairs (room 307) in the former Parish Nurse office (Sunday between services) and in a corner of the narthex (after Sat. worship). A Loan Closet is available for anyone to borrow and use adaptive equipment, while special Hikes are held weekly to encourage exercise. Throughout the year, other classes and special programs are offered, contributing to an overall emphasis on holistic health. Expect to watch for still more Health Ministries, as the Health Council actively serves.
KNITTING AND CROCHETING GROUP:
Twice a month, on the 2nd and 4th Thursday mornings, at 10:30 a.m. in the Upper Room, a friendly group of women gather to knit and crochet winter caps, scarves and mittens for those who have none. While the women are engaged in constructive fellowship, they are helping to support Open Door and other organizations who serve people in need. They come prepared to teach their crafts to all who might join them and provide support for each other at the same time. Newcomers are especially welcome to join in service!
BIBLE STUDIES:
Sponsored by the church’s Discipleship Ministries, BIBLE STUDIES are offered throughout the year, in a variety of ways. Probably the most comprehensive of the many options is the DISCIPLE Bible Study series. DISCIPLE is an in-depth, 34 week study of the whole Bible, offered in a weekly 2 ½ hr. class format, with substantial home study and preparation required. Participants must join DISCIPLE Bible Study from the beginning. Other studies currently offered include the MEN’S BREAKFAST BIBLE STUDY every Tuesday at 7:30 a.m., which covers a variety of scriptures and can be joined at any time; various topics in the Koinonia Sunday School Class, and more. All Discipleship class offerings include scripture as a part to some extent, either as a significant part or to encourage the biblical perspective. Everyone is urged to involve him/her self in a serious Bible Study of his/her choice.
ADULT DISCIPLESHIP:
One of the ways we grow spiritually is by learning the historical basis for that which we believe. At various times throughout the year, the church offers opportunities to learn more about the foundations and development of our faith. The extensive CHRISTIAN BELIEVER class is one way we do that, as participants study the complete history of the Christian faith. Other short-term classes, offered periodically, provide still more educational choices, generally on Sunday mornings or Wednesday afternoons. There’s much more… and all interested are always welcome.
WONDER FULL WEDNESDAYS:
Every Wednesday evening, programs are provided that revolve around active family schedules and participation in church ministries. A variety of programs and classes are offered each week, including programs for children, music ministries, Bible study, and varied topical programs. A WONDER FULL WEDNESDAY Dinner is offered from 5:00 ‘til 6:15 p.m. weekly. A complete meal is offered for only $3.00 for adults and $1 for children age 10 and under, and no reservations are needed. The schedule is reduced in the summer, with fewer music practices and reduced children’s ministries, but the dinners and other programs continue throughout the summer. Plan to join the WW fun. Weekly events are listed in the church calendar and the web site, but come even if you don't know what's scheduled for this week. They're all good.
HOME COMMUNION MINISTRY:
Linked with the church’s Worship Ministry, while providing an important caregiving function, HOME COMMUNION is offered to those who are unable to attend church services and take communion when it is offered during worship. The Pastors train the lay servers and consecrate the communion elements for use. Any member of the congregation may refer a request for the service to the pastors, and interested members of the congregation are invited to serve in this way. HOME COMMUNION, led by Mildred Price, is deeply appreciated by the recipients and one way the church responds to the spiritual needs of the community.
CHURCH FAMILY PUBLICATIONS:
Important to our church family is the way in which information and communications get shared and distributed within the church family. While many of us might be involved in channeling information, the church office is key in creating and organizing publications. All church mailings, fliers, informational brochures and more are generally created by the talents of our talented Kay Price assisted by Carol Thorne. Their artistic and educational backgrounds are extremely helpful here, and many benefit from the clarity and attractiveness of their communications. We are fortunate—and thankful--to have such dedicated and talented people serving in the ministries of this church!
CARING FRIENDS CALLERS:
Because our church is a community of faith, we are called to care for each other as Christ would have us. For this reason, our church has an extensive caring ministry, designed to assist with most any type of crisis or special need. There is Pastoral care, Stephen Ministers for one-on-one supportive care, the Parish Nurse Ministry which offers guidance in health-related areas, and much more. A significant part of the church’s caregiving, however, is set-up under a division of Outreach by that name, and a major part of that Caregiving division is the Caring Friends Callers. Audrey Graves leads the Callers who are composed of caring church people who have agreed to make phone calls or visit those who are more limited and often homebound. She can always use more caring persons to assist with this important ministry, and she appreciates referrals from those who know of someone who should be receiving this care.
USHERS:
A few responsible people stand in the back of the church and perform many important functions each week. Our church USHERS are diligently present at every Saturday and Sunday worship service, to pass out the Order of Worship and Weekly Reminder, to assist people to their seats, collect the offering, distribute attendance folders, pass out visitor packets, answer questions, guide worshipers to communion, respond to any emergencies, and more. Our church USHERS are there to be helpful in any way they can. USHERS are an extremely important service ministry of this church and we are thankful for the many committed people that serve in this way.
SUNDAY SCHOOL:
While Discipleship is an ongoing activity throughout each week at PUMC, Sunday School is a special emphasis for both children and adults. Bea Anderson serves as Sunday School Superintendent for all children and youth classes, while many excellent teachers prepare and lead in the presentations. Godly Play, a way of presenting scripture through repetitive play and ritual, is an effective and entertaining way of teaching children. One Room Schoolhouse is another excellent offering that presents choices for all parents. Middle and High School classes have their own, individually selected curriculum (see the PUMC Youth Web site for more information), while a variety of classes, each with their unique approach, are offered for adults throughout Sunday morning. For more information on any of these, contact Bea or any of the Sunday School teachers and leaders; the church office or Connections Center can assist you further. Sunday School is an important emphasis! Consider joining a class.
ADULT SUNDAY SCHOOL:
Our church offers a variety of spiritual growth opportunities for adults throughout the week. There are a number of classes available on Sunday. Koinonia Class and Spirit Builders are two ongoing classes for adults that meet at 10:30 a.m. A third short-term option is generally also offered at the second worship service time. Faith cless is offerd for special needs learners. Childcare is always available for worship and classes, at no charge, in the church nursery. More information is available on all church programs through the pastors, staff and involved members.
CHURCH NURSERY:
Our church places a heavy emphasis on family ministries and support for parents with young children. One function of Child Care Coordinator is to enlist the help of child care assistants to provide the best care for the children with whom they are entrusted, while ensuring the nursery facility itself is kept at optimum standards. Child care is provided for all worship services and a number of church programs, and is always available for special situations upon advance request. Parents who are unsure should always inquire, through the church office. There is never any charge for this service. It is one more way the church cares as Christ would have us care. RoseAnn Chapman serves as Child care coordinator, assist byh Licia Davis.
PRAYER QUILTERS:
Under the sponsorship of our church’s Health Ministries, a committed group of ladies get together once a month for quilting and prayer. Sue Robinson leads a creative and talented group that prepares personal size quilts, in a variety of designs and colors, for persons who are generally extremely ill or injured, and in need of prayer and care. Their conditions are usually complex, often involving situations that are confidential in nature. The congregation is asked to tie a knot and pray for those who have quilts displayed in the Good Shepherd Center. If you know a situation that you feel warrants a prayer quilt, please contact one of the pastors. You’re also invited to join the Prayer Quilters, if you would like to serve in this ministry area!
GREETERS:
The friendly people who wear special name tags and shake all our hands every Sunday morning at both worship services are part of our church’s GREETERS, a division of The Connections Ministries. Because of the size of our church, the GREETERS may not know your name or whether you’re new to the church or not, but you can know you’ll get a smile and a cheerful greeting each time you attend. Some of our GREETERS are relatively new themselves, so be sure you get acquainted with them if they’re not familiar to you! The Connections Ministries helps people join and become an active part of the church, through its many fellowship and nurturing activities. We want to extend a warm welcome to all who enter our doors and GREETERS are just one way we do this.
PRAYER ROOM:
One of the church’s newest ministries is the PRAYER ROOM. The PRAYER ROOM is a place where anyone can go to pray during the hours the church office is open, typically 10 a.m. ‘til 4 p.m., Monday through Friday. Located immediately adjoining Agape Hall, by Mary’s Parlor, the PRAYER ROOM may be entered from the hallway next to the office. Candles are lit, devotional materials are available, and there are comfortable chairs. During the weekend services, the room becomes available for parents to take babies too upset to remain in the worship service. We thus know the PRAYER ROOM as a Cry Room during those services, so the room is definitely multi-use! The PRAYER ROOM is one more way everyone is encouraged to include more prayer as a meaningful faith practice.
THE PUMC LIBRARY:
Perhaps some have not thought of the PUMC Library as a ministry, but it surely is. Through the resources offered, our church library offers help through any type of personal crisis, including divorce, grief, job loss, health problems, loneliness, and more. Yet it also provides an available source of help for a spiritual crisis, particularly when additional help is needed in understanding the will or nature of God. Others who simply wish to grow spiritually will find treasures within that will enrich their lives. The library is available to anyone attending PUMC.
Some may not know where it is - situated in the room immediately to the left of the sanctuary as you enter from the narthex.
STEPHEN MINISTRY:
While this church has many, wonderful caregiving ministries, STEPHEN MINISTRY is the largest and most comprehensive of those. Stephen Ministers are specially trained, confidential, supportive and listening caregivers, who are matched one-on-one to provide Christ-centered care to those who are in crisis. An extensive, ongoing Continuing Education and supervision are provided for those who serve. Donna leads the Stephen Ministers, with a team of Stephen Leaders. Stephen Ministers are available to serve at this time; contact Pastor Carol Mumford, the Referrals Coordinator, for a confidential referral.
COMMUNITY CUPBOARD:
Did you know that the original community food bank for Prescott started at Prescott United Methodist Church? The project got so large, fortunately, that many other churches in the community chose to become involved and it was then moved to Catholic Social Services. PUMC still plays a very active part, with Bob and Elanor Maas leading a group of over 30 volunteers who are scheduled to work, usually 10 at a time for 1 ½ - 2 hours per week, boxing non-perishable food that will then be distributed to needy families that have been carefully interviewed and screened by CSS. Our whole congregation supports the effort by bringing in staple foods on the first Sunday of each month. The items needed each month are those non-perishables included in a sample food box: rice, beans, baked beans, canned vegetables and fruit, cereal, pasta, hamburger or hot dogs, tuna fish, soup, margarine, tomato sauce, peanut butter, dried milk, and bread/baked goods. Monetary donations are also accepted. Community Cupboard is one very important way our congregation helps feed hungry people in our area!
VAN MINISTRY:
Have you ever thought about how you would get to Sunday morning worship if you were not able to drive your car? Thanks to the cooperative efforts of PUMC’s Outreach Ministries and the Trustees, there is a Van Transportation Ministry that can help! Passengers reserve their space for the worship service of their choice by phoning the church office no later than Thursday. Volunteer drivers pick up passengers for the 9:00 am worship service, coordinated by Wayne and Sally Valerius. You do not have to be a member to request a ride and there is no charge for the service. Our Trustees provide the gas and maintenance while the drivers are all fully trained, friendly volunteers from the congregation.* If you should ever need this service, try it; you’ll like it!
*Note: More drivers are always needed, so let us know if you are able to use your talents in this way! This is one way your family might be able to be involved in ministry together.
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