e-Review archive
December 2009
 

Churches tackle unemployment with job support groups

By Jenna De Marco | Dec. 1, 2009 {1107} NOTE: This article is the third in a series on ways ministries in the Florida Conference are helping individuals and families cope with the current economic downturn. Links to the first two articles are included in the "related stories" section at the end of this article. Rising unemployment in 2009 has displaced many workers, bolstering their need for both emotional and spiritual support and career development services. Local United Methodist churches have begun responding to those needs by offering ministries targeted at people looking for work. full story

Church garden has ‘multiplier effect’

By Derek Maul | Dec. 7, 2009 {1108} GAINESVILLE — Ten years ago Trinity United Methodist Church moved to an expansive 66-acre site that includes playing fields, woods and wetlands. Two years ago, the church added an organic vegetable garden that’s enabling members to embrace a new kind of outreach to the community. full story

Marston to retire as foundation president

By Suzanne McGovern | Dec. 8, 2009 {1110} NOTE: A headshot of the Rev. Thomas W. Marston is available at http://www.flumc.info/photo_gallery2.shtml. LAKELAND — The Rev. Thomas W. Marston, president of the Florida United Methodist Foundation Inc. since 1992, announced that he will retire effective Dec. 31, 2010. Marston is the fourth president of the foundation, established in 1966. full story

Refurbished bicycle ministry gets rolling

By Larry Macke | Dec. 15, 2009 {1111} How far can $25 go to make a difference? Members of First United Methodist Church in Winter Park accepted the challenge to find out. One couple had wheels in mind. full story

Leaders delve into hunger, justice issues, ways churches can serve

By Erik J. Alsgaard | Dec. 16, 2009 {1113} WINTER PARK —  Meeting at First United Methodist Church in Winter Park for a first-of-a-kind gathering, key mission, outreach and justice ministries leaders consider ways to help Florida Conference churches get outside the walls of their sanctuaries and practice salty service. full story

Hunger reduction advocates see results in Central Florida

By Derek Maul | Dec. 16, 2009 {1112} Some positive results are giving Florida United Methodists reason to be optimistic about their efforts to reduce childhood hunger. They also show there’s still much more to do. full story

Opportunities

An e-Review News Item | Dec. 17, 2009 {1114} This series includes: Conference-related: • Conference emphasizes leading with passion • Workshop provides ‘real ideas’ for ministry • Student scholarship program seeks applicants • Church secretaries head to Florida for 28th annual conference • Workshops aim to increase salty service Global/national: • Deadline to submit legislation for Young People’s Convocation is Dec. 31 • Wesley Ministry Network courses go online • Hinton Rural Life Center presents spirituality and arts series • Workshop offers keys to unlock recovery ministry • Conference focuses on children’s ministry • Scholarship event planned for aspiring seminary students • Lilly Endowment announces 2010 National Clergy Renewal Program • Charity Navigator helps supporters make informed decisions • Mentor book available in Spanish, English full story