cvillefirstumc@gmail.com
Midweek Update
August 28, 2024
"Welcoming All..."
 
The third and fourth grade Sunday School classes took time this week to think about how Charlottesville First United Methodist Church can be more welcoming. In this week's midweek update, Pastor Alex Joyner shares some of the wonderful ideas they came up with.
 
Please be sure to look through the exciting events we have upcoming! And as always, if you have an upcoming event, or have photos from a recent one, please send a note to coms@cvillefirstumc.org.
Happening this Week

Last Thursday Lunch

Tomorrow, August 29th at 11:30am

 

All women in the church are invited for food and fellowship at the Dairy Market on August 29th for the Last Thursday Lunch.

 

Looking forward to seeing you there. Bring a friend!

First Sunday Kid's and Youth Lunch

Sunday, September 1st after Worship

 

Following our worship service we invite all kids and youth (birth-12th grade) and their families to join us in the Fellowship Hall for lunch and a craft activity. 

 

We also welcome anyone interested in serving in our Children's and Youth Ministry Programs to join us for this complimentary lunch.

 

You may bring a side dish or dessert to share and help with these meals, but it is not required to attend. Hope to see you there!

 

Questions? Contact: children@cvillefirstumc.org

Living As God's People

Sundays Starting September 1st

 

This fall we will be following a theme each week during our children's time and Sunday School. 

 

This Sunday our curriculum will change to  Living As God's People.  We will begin at the beginning, Genesis 1:1-23 and discuss God Creates the World. 

 

We welcome you to join us throughout the summer as we continue to Seek God Together. 

Monday Grad Chats

Mondays Starting September 2nd from 12-1pm

 

Are you looking for a space to connect with other graduate students who are a part of UVA's Progressive Christian Community?

 

Join us every Monday starting September 2nd from noon to 1pm for a free lunch at Wesley at UVA and a discussion on a topic of interest.

 

Looking forward to seeing you there.

September One Thing Ministry

 

The One Thing Ministry for the month of September is for the Ivy Creek School.

 

This month we will be collecting chips, Cheezits, popcorn, pretzels, etc. (Big bags are fine!) for the Ivy Creek School which is a therapeutic, separate day school that serves students in kindergarten through 12th grade whose emotional and behavioral needs require smaller classes, increased teacher to student ratio, and counseling services.

 

Questions? Contact Carolyn McGee carolynmcgee@cvillefirstumc.org

Coming Soon

Women at the Well

September

 

Women at the Well will begin our fall time together with a “Wine Cork Christmas Tree" making day on Sept. 5 at 9:30am.

 

On Sept. 12, we will begin our study of “Searching for Sunday” by Rachel Held Evans. This author describes faith as less of a club to belong to and more of a current to enter into. Her ideas are both comforting and slightly terrifying and really….isn’t that what faith really is?

 

Come join us, and fall in love with God all over again!

Cville Pride Fest - Sign Up to Volunteer!

Saturday, September 7th at Noon

 

Charlottesville First UMC, Restoration UMC, and Wesley Memorial UMC will be hosting a UMC table this year at C'ville Pride Fest 2024.

 

Come visit us at Ting Pavilion starting at 12pm on Saturday, Sept 7th. Stop by to say hello, take your picture with some fun props in our fabulous photo booth, sign up to be a table host, or do all three! 

 

Use this link to Sign up to volunteer!

 

CFUMC Inclusion Task Force contact: connect@cvillefirstumc.org

Talent, No Talent Show

Sunday, September 8th

 

Are you participating in the Talent, No Talent Show? We are just a few weeks away!

 

September 8th is the big day. Enjoy the talent show while share a potluck lunch. Bring your lunch - the church will provide the pasta salad. Additionally, we will hold a cake auction during the event. The money raised will go to our April, RISE Against Hunger event.

 

Let Patty Taylor (sadiemaebr@comcast.net ) know if you intend to donate a cake


If you haven’t already let Carolyn McGee (carlynmcgee@cvillefirstumc.org) know what talent (or no-talent) you would like to offer for the Talent Show that same day.

Our Next Hike!

Wednesday, September 11th at 10am

 

Our hiking committee has been busy planning our hikes this fall. 

 

The next hike will take place Downtown. Starting at the church, we will 'hike' the Downtown Mall for a total of 2.6 miles. Join us for lunch afterwards!

 

Keep an eye out for upcoming hikes this fall!

Announcements
Having Trouble Logging Into Realm?
 

Are you getting ‘invalid credentials’ on your device when you try to login to Realm?

 

You can use this document to help troubleshoot the issue. There are directions for both Android and iOS/Apple.

 

Sorry for any inconveniences you may be experiencing. You can always use www.onrealm.org from your phone’s browser or a computer browser.  If you are having other access issues, please send an email to financialsect@cvillefirstumc.org.

Volunteers Needed!
 

We are happy to be partnering with the Wesley Foundation at UVA, our United Methodist campus ministry, on the renovation of one of their major meeting rooms.

 

The Endowment Committee of CFUMC, with the approval of the Church Council, has designated $20,000 for this project.

 

The Rev. Devon Maust Earle, campus minister, says: “We look forward to having the large space for events, retreats, student meetups, and so much more. I know it will be well used by Wesley students as well as other groups on Grounds. The first phase of the Game Room should be done in the next couple of weeks…Thank you to Charlottesville First for this generous gift!”

Volunteers Needed!
 

We have a new exciting opportunity to volunteer with concessions at UVA sporting events! A portion of the proceeds will go towards Wesley at UVA.

 

For football games, volunteer groups will be between 2-10 people and for soccer games we need groups of 6 or 7 volunteers. 

 

Interested volunteers can use this link to fill out the volunteer form.

 

You can choose which event or events you would like to volunteer for by signing up here

Calling All College-Aged CVille First UMC-ers!
 

Please send us your name, mailing address, and B-day. Why? Our CFUMC Caring Letter Writers would love to send you some mail this year.

 

Please send us your info by Saturday, Aug 24 to Lara Upton at connect@cvillefirstumc.org

 

Thanks!

A Solar Project Update
 

The solar project construction has progressed over the summer. We are just a few weeks from the finish line. By September 1st we are hoping that all construction will be finalized and solar panels installed.

 

Thanks to Fred Schneider for the signs!

 

The on-site church representative is Keith Davis. Please direct questions or comments through Keith. If he is not available,contact Dave Wheatley, Bill Owens or Guy Moffat. Any directions or questions for the contractors should be directed to one of these CFUMC representatives.

Entrepreneur Workshop at The Point
 

Do you have a business idea? 


What if you could make it a reality?

 

Join The Academy - a transformative, gospel-centered
program that empowers you with the skills and
resources to become your own boss!

 

The Academy is presented by The Point. For more information visit their website.

HAUMC Clothes Closet
 

The clothes closet is currently still operating out at 750 Hinton Ave, lower level off parking lot, every Tuesday from 10am-1pm. Donations accepted during these hours of operation.


We are currently in need of clean/gently worn summer apparel:  ladies/women's shorts, jeans, underwear, socks; men's shorts, jeans, short sleeve shirts, t-shirts, underwear, socks; and infant/girl/boys clothing.  We need all of these items in a variety of sizes.   We also accept household items such as sheets, blankets, towels, kitchen items (dishes, pots/pans, utensils, small appliances).


If any questions on the above, please contact karenlapps@yahoo.com or seek me out after Sunday church services.

At Home Communion
 

If you or someone you know can no longer attend services but would like to receive Communion in your home please contact Carolyn McGee at carolynmcgee@cvillefumc.org. or
DeAnn Posey at 757-208-6998 or dsposey2426@gmail.com

Love INC Cville
 

After rent and utilities, the most requested need is for furniture.  Love INC Cville is desperately looking for volunteers with vehicles to pick up and deliver furniture that has been donated to Love INC for distribution to our neighbors in need. Without the ability to deliver the furniture, large amounts end up in the dump instead of going to those who desperately need it.

 

To inquire about how to help, message Raymond Klein, Executive Director of Love INC at raymond@loveinccville.org .

Have Something to Share?
 

Did you take photos at a recent church event?

 

Did you get together with friends and snap a selfie?

 

Do you have an upcoming event that you want to invite others to?

 

Please consider sharing your snaps and events with me (Erica Gregory) so I can post to our social media pages! We have so many amazing things going on, and this is a fun way to spread the word. 

 

Just email coms@cvillefirstumc.org with a little blurb about the photo or event.

 

And be sure to "Like" us on Facebook to follow along!

Volunteers Needed
 

Looking for a short term volunteer opportunity?  I would love some help cutting up & bagging watermelon directly after the Sunday service throughout the summer. 

 

We plan to hand out the watermelon as part of Bread and Blessings meal on Mondays. No experience needed!  All ages welcome, although children must be accompanied by an adult. 

 

Come once or every Sunday. Please contact Chris Roehl, catcar24@yahoo.com.

PACEM 2025
 

CFUMC will be hosting our unhoused neighbors in partnership with PACEM February 8 - 21, 2025.  

 

Please mark your calendars and contact Jon Scheumann for more information please contact jonscheumann@gmail.com or 434-422-1749.

Just the Book You Were Looking For!
 
Looking for a new study for your small group? Visit our curriculum library, just to the left of the stage, at the back of the Fellowship Hall.
 
The room will be open every Sunday and during the week by appointment with carolynmcgee@cvillefirstumc.org If you are interested in starting a small group and need some assistance or ideas, see Carolyn!
AV Training
 
Would you like the opportunity to be trained on our AV (Audio Visual) equipment? We would love to have some new folks who might be interested to go through this training and then sign up as a substitute for worship and other events!
 
Contact Chase Carson at matt.chase.carson@gmail.com for more info.
Thank You For Your Continued Support to Loaves and Fishes
 
One of the many ways that CFUMC fulfills its mission is by serving people who are hungry, in part through the financial support and volunteers we send to serve at the Loaves and Fishes Food Pantry. 
 
Here's a recap of what was accomplished in July:
  • 2,865 total households - That’s an average of 179 households on each of the 16 days we gave out food.
  • 11,042 individuals:  35% aged 0-18; 53% aged 19-59; 11% aged 60+  
  • Roughly 9% of households last month were first-time visitors, and approximately 31% of our clients visited us twice in the month. 
So, if you are ever wondering where your donations go, rest assured that more than just the utility bills at church are being funded! Thank you all for such generosity, and please consider making a donation via their website so that we can continue to support our community through Loaves and Fishes.
Learning & Fellowship

Adult Fellowship Group

Sundays following Worship

 

Beginning July 14th, please join us to explore what it takes to live the courageous life Jesus offers us, guided by a book and DVD by Tom Berlin, “Courage: Jesus and the Call to Brave Faith”.

 

For further details, contact Pat Graham  Annew41@outlook.com.

Young Parents Group

Every 2nd and 4th Sunday from 11:30am-12:30pm

 

Starting on Sunday, 4/14 at 11:30am, The Young Parents Class will be delving into Matt Rawle’s study, Jesus Revealed: The I Am Statements in the Gospel of John. 

 

Together, explore the "I Am" statements in John as works of art that resonate throughout the Gospel. Together, let’s experience the profound truth at the heart of the "I Am" statements: that Jesus is light and life, and He calls us to himself and offers us the hope of resurrection.

 

This class meets on the second and fourth Sundays. Childcare is provided. 

Young Adults Group

Every Second Sunday

 

Join this new small group for anyone in their 20’s and 30’s. Starting June 2nd, we will kick off by sitting together during the first of the month church luncheon, and then meet every 1st and 3rd Sunday after church for a Bible study and discussion. Can’t wait to connect with you!

 

Contact Madison McManners

Men’s Bible Study
Tuesdays at 8:00 am
 
Meeting at Wegmans at Fifth Street Station, we are continuing with fellowship and a concentrated study. All men of every age are invited.
 

Our Tuesday morning group is starting a study this week of this book:  “Why did Jesus, Moses, the Buddha, and Mohammed Cross the Road?”. It is by Brian McLaren and in this book he seeks to answer two questions:

 

  • Can you be a committed Christian without having to condemn or convert people of other faiths?
  • Is it possible to affirm other religious traditions without watering down your own?
For questions or more information, contact Jim Berlin.
Faith Seekers Class 
Sundays 8:45 am
 
The Faith Seekers Class - meeting in room 208 at 8:45am every Sunday is studying PSALMS: Prayers of the Heart. This is a collection of beautiful psalms, poems, and laments. All of them provide a unique way of relating to, praying to, and communicating with God.
 
All are welcome! info - kjberlin56@gmail.com

Faith Explorers

Sundays at 11:15 am


The Faith Explorers class will begin reading the book,  Transforming: The Bible & the Lives of Transgender Christians on May 12th.  Many people lack understanding of gender identity and the transgender experience.  
 
Transforming weaves ancient and modern stories that will change the way readers think about gender, the Bible, and the faith to which Jesus calls us.  Join us as we learn how to become a more inclusive community of faith.  
 
For more details, contact Bill Clarke.
Interested in Reading?
 
Pastor Alex's book,  A Space for Peace in the Holy Land: Listening to Modern Israel and Palestine, can be purchased as an e-book on Amazon for $4.99. 
 
If you are not a Kindle reader, simply purchase the book as if you were (so that the publisher will be paid) and we will print a physical copy for you here in the church office.
 
Contact Carolyn McGee for more information. 
UVA Learning Programs
 
UVA's Division for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion is offering a series of online learning programs on topics such as Microagression, Introduction to DEI, Introduction to Implicit Bias, Introduction to Difficult Dialogues, Introduction to Equity, and more!
 
These are great opportunities to engage with our community and educate ourselves on issues of inequality. Click here to learn more about their offerings and to register.
Continuing Opportunities
Caring Writers
 
The Caring Writers are a group who enjoy sending cards and letters to those who are homebound, feel isolated, or just need to know that someone cares. The commitment is to send a card or letter to two recipients per month. 
 
If you are interested in becoming a Caring Writer, please contact George Batten or Maurya Batten. You can also contact either of them if you know of someone who would enjoy being on the recipient list. 
Music Ministries
 
Our Music Ministry includes choirs, bands, instrumental ensembles, and soloists of both traditional and contemporary sounds. There is no shortage of ways to praise God through music, and everyone is invited to explore the gift of music, even if you are just singing along in the congregation! 
 
For more information, contact Kevin White or Carolyn McGee
Enjoying the food and fellowship at Portico Café after worship?
 
Thanks to those who recently gave monetary contributions for Portico Cafe - we have enough funds for coffee and creamer for the next couple of months, so you won't see the donation jar any time soon!
 
We will continue to host Portico Cafe outdoors as long as the temperature is above 50 degrees and not raining. Otherwise, it will be held in the Gathering Space. 
 
Email Lisa Hanrahan if you want to sign up to bring treats. A sign up sheet is also available by the coffee area. The success of Portico Café depends on the generosity of church members to help or contribute food!
Rainy Day Blues? 
 
“Love the City” umbrellas will be left at the Front and Welcome Center entrances for all to borrow and then return on rainy days!
 
If you would like to purchase an umbrella to support our Nurture Ministries and our CFUMC Vision of  “Love the City," they are $20. Put “umbrella” in the memo line of your check.
The Quiet Center
Sundays at 11:15 in the Chapel
 
The Quiet Center is an after-church gathering of, and for, anyone who wants to know more about grief’s journey. The sessions are “stand alone,” to join anytime and as often as you wish, to explore the many faces of grief and to share with each other our time, our experiences, our presence and our prayers.
 
If you have any questions, contact Rev. John at 703-887-7305 or at johnconway@vaumc.org.
Congregational Prayer Time
Now Tuesdays at 12:00 pm on Zoom
 
All are welcome to join the Zoom Meeting:
Meeting ID: 882 7977 8844
Passcode: 968327
 
If you are interested in praying for our church and community, be in touch with Carolyn McGee for the link.

Clothes Closet

Donations to Hinton Ave UMC clothes closet: 
Hours of operation: Tuesdays from 10:00 am - 1:00 pm
 
We are looking for children to adult sizes, spring/summer clothing. Please make sure the clothing is gently used, clean, stain-free, and in good repair. Also accept some household items (e.g., sheets, towels, small appliances, dishes, pans). 
 
Email the church office for more information.
Assistance for Ukraine

UMCOR International Disaster Response and Recovery, Advance #982450, is collecting funds for humanitarian assistance.
 
You can donate directly online or designate "Ukraine relief" on your checks made out to CFUMC.

Prayer Quilt Ministry

 

Contact Teri Guertler if you need a prayer quilt for someone going through a difficult time, or if you would like to help in the creation of the prayer quilts. No experience necessary.

cvillefirstumc@gmail.com
cvillefirstumc@gmail.com
cvillefirstumc@gmail.com
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