Rev. Dr. T. Ray Wheeler
Exodus 27: 20-21 & Matthew 5:14-16
We are tired and overwhelmed. Sometimes we don’t know what to do or which way to turn. I believe it will help us if we look for what needs to be done and do it. Expressions of kindness, no matter how small, when done in the name of Christ, become eternal. We must keep the light of hope going. Let’s not give in to hate, but let’s keep rejoicing in hope. Live into our banner: “Love Boldly, Serve Joyfully, Lead Courageously.“
DATES AT A GLANCE
Fun Friday - Friday, September 25, 1:30-3:30PM
Pop-Up Prayer Sunday School Starts - Sunday, September 27, 10AM
Youth Carwash Fundraiser - Sunday, September 27, 4-5:30PM
Protect the Vote Event - Sunday, September 27, 4-5PM
Urgent Announcements
Please sign our new media consent form
Please take a few moments to read our new Media Consent Form at this link, choose your preference, and sign the form so that we can add it to our church files. We will need a form for each adult and for each child, so you may have to fill out multiple forms. Child forms should be completed by their parents or guardians, though there is an optional section for a child to express their wishes for media as well. It will not override their parent/guardian decision, but knowing their choice will help our staff understand their wishes for their image. We appreciate everyone's attention to this matter. If you have any questions, you can contact Pastor Michelle (
).
https://fumcbentonville.shelbynextchms.com/external/form/553d11a4-ee3c-4ecd-a15b-eeca7fdf6004
Community Events
Protect the Vote Event
Central’s SALT is presenting the “Protect the Vote” program on Sunday, September 27 beginning at 4:00pm in CAC (Building C).
”As the United States prepares for the 2026 midterm elections, people of faith have an important role to play in upholding the integrity of the democratic process. These elections reveal the moral, political and social priorities of the nation. Amid concerns about election interference and declining public trust in elections, people of faith are called to stand as protectors and observers of the vote.” (GBCS, UMC)
The keynote speaker will be Rep-elect Max Deitchler, attorney and member of Washington Co Election Commission from 2014-2025. There will be time for Q&A and table discussion. Please mark your calendars for this important program.
“The vote is a sacred expression of our commitment to building the beloved community.” (GBCS, UMC)
Fun Friday Schedule 2026-2027
Come join us for fellowship & fun beginning Friday, September 25, from 1:30-3:30PM in the Gathering Room. Future dates: October 23, January 8 & 22, February 12 & 26, March 12, April 9, and May 14.
Family Ministries
Littles Meet-up
Families with children ages 0-5 years old are welcome to join us at Gilmore Park on Saturday, September 19th, 9am. This is a great time to connect with other families going through the same life stages. Ms. Allison will have a snack and juice for the kids.
Youth Carwash Fundraiser
Join us on Sunday, September 27 from 4–5:30 PM for a car wash in the church parking lot! Donations are welcome, and every dollar will help fund our Youth Room Refresh.
Can’t make the car wash but still want to support our youth? You can donate to the Youth Fund anytime using this link. Just select “Youth Fund” from the dropdown!
Thank you for investing in our youth and helping us create a space where they can belong, grow, and connect!
OMP Deposit Due Sep. 30
OMP 2027 — Reserve Your Spot!
Current 6th–12th grade students are invited to join us for OMP 2027, June 20–25! This overnight mission experience is a great week of serving our neighbors, building community, and having fun together. OMP’s flagship project is constructing wheelchair ramps, giving students the opportunity to serve while learning new skills.
A $50 deposit reserves your student’s spot. Reserve by September 30!
Snacks for Youth
On Sundays from 4-5:30 our Youth gather for fun, fellowship and some good food provided by members of our church! We love to have parents, families, groups and Sunday School classes bring or sponsor a light meal for around 15-25 students. This is a great way for our church family to support our young people. Sign up HERE and contact Lexie (
) if you have any questions!
Halloween Candy Crawl
Mark your calendars for this year's Halloween Candy Crawl on October 25th from 4-6pm! If your family would like to host a table, sign up here
announcements
What is “Pop Up” Sunday School for adults?
Beginning September 27, 8 weekly stand-alone classes on the topic of Prayer will be offered at 10am. Stand-alone classes allow you to “Pop-in” to the classes as you are able, no registration is required. We hope you will attend all 8, but if your availability is limited, feel free to attend what works into your schedule. We will explore daily prayer, special prayers and learn some exercises to bring into prayer. Our goal is to help you pray with more confidence and joy. Our hope is to answer some of your questions about prayer. If you’d like to submit a question, email Johnna (
) and we will try to cover it during our 8 week class. We recommend that you read Lord, Teach Us To Pray, by Margie Burger, prior to class; but, it is only required for anyone who wants to receive LSM credit for the class. Let us know if you need to leave early for choir so that we may plan accordingly. Contact Johnna or Shanna Pargellis with questions
Saving Grace 6 Week Financial Planning Class
Whether you have never built a budget or just need to refresh with a change of life or a new financial situation, this course will help you build a faithful plan. The class will meet for 6 weeks on Wednesday nights beginning October 7. Class will be led by Matt Kendall who has great experience in helping people think through financial questions. To register, click HERE soon as class size is limited to give everyone personal attention.
Guatemala Mission Trip
Our church will be hosting a mission trip to Guatemala in June 2027. If you are interested in joining or would like to know how you can help, come to one of our informational meetings starting October 7th at 6pm.
Celebration of United Methodist Women
Please come to the United Women in Faith Annual Gathering so we can honor YOU! on Saturday, September 26 at St. Paul UMC in Fort Smith. This will be a day of discussion groups on varied interests, social justice issues and celebrating great things that are going on in UWF across our NW district. We encourage you to invite your daughters and granddaughters for some great intergenerational discussions. Chelsea Hodge, NW Vice President, will speak to the great heritage of women in the United Methodist Church. We really hope you can come and be part of the discussions and celebrations. Praising God for each and every one of you, and the difference you make! Cindy Miller, AR UWF Northwest District President
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