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Good News July 2019
1. First United Methodist Church of North Hollywood
GOOD NEWS
e-mail: nohofumc@pacbell.net
JULY 2019
facebook.com/nohofumc1 www.nohofumc.org
IN THIS ISSUE:
• Welcome Back Pastor
• Annual Conference
• Summer Events
• SUPERHERO VBS
GOOD NEWS is published monthly by
First United Methodist Church of North
Hollywood, California 91601
Phone (818) 763-8231
Rev. Dr Grant Hagiya
Bishop
Rev. James Powell
District Superintendent
Rev. Steve Peralta
Senior Pastor
Congregation
Ministers
Jeff Thomas
Director of Music
Roger Eshleman
Organist
Nylean Rapinac
Administrator
Patty Kelsey
Director, Program Ministries
Tonya Peat
Director, Outreach Ministries
Time flies when life is good. We are coming up on twelve months together and
I am having a difficult time understanding how it has been one year. I thank
you for your kindness and for the way you have accepted me as your pastor.
I’m looking forward to what the next year holds for us as we envision what
ministry in our neighborhood will be.
As I reflect upon Annual Conference, we undertake the visioning process with
several pieces of the future very uncertain. Many of you are wondering about
the future of our denomination and the nature of our connection to the
United Methodist Church. Unfortunately, a clear pathway into the future still
does not exist. Many groups are meeting across the United States to discuss
what the future will look like, and the general consensus says that nobody is
happy with the results of the 2019 Special General Conference: even the
conservative elements which “won” the vote is not happy. While we are
heading for a split or a dissolution of the United Methodist Church, nobody
has a road-map yet of what that will look like.
As we gathered at Annual Conference this year, our body was clear: we will not
operate under the restrictions of the new Discipline. We passed a resolution
which states: “…the California-Pacific Annual Conference condemns the
decision of the special called 2019 General Conference to pass the Traditional
Plan and humbly apologizes and laments for the immense harm caused to
LGBTQI+ persons, their families, their friends, and the body of Christ. We
affirm all persons are individuals of sacred worth, created in the image of God.
In the tension of our theological diversity, the California-Pacific Annual
Conference will engage in dynamic, life-giving, and transformational ministry
for all persons…
…the California-Pacific Annual Conference will empower the elected delegates
of the 2016 and 2020 General/Jurisdictional Conferences to proactively
coordinate and lead our Annual Conference’s envisioning of a new, inclusive
form of Methodism…” The full content of Resolution 19-06 can be found
here: calpacumc.org on the Conference Secretary’s page.
Something new is coming. In our Disciple Bible Study, we spent time with
Revelation 21:1-9, in particular the voice from the throne proclaiming,
“Behold, I am making all things new!” For all the uncertainty, I do believe that
God is at work, and what emerges from the other side of this point in history
will be a church that is one step closer to the Biblical hope that all people will
know and worship the creator.
(continued on pg. 2)
A Letter From Pastor Steve
2. SERMON SERIES: STOPPING TO LISTEN
June 30
“Listening Between The Lines”
Luke 9:51-62
July 7
“Following Advice”
Luke 10:1-11, 16-20
July 14
“Hearing Correction”
Luke 10:25-37
July 21
“A Woman’s Place”
Luke 10:38-42
July 28
“Patterns of Prayer”
Luke 11:1-13
HIGHLIGHTS OF WORSHIP
June 2 - Pastor Steve’s sermon, “What’s Your Purpose,” was based on John 17:20-26. We shared the
sacrament of communion. Our awesome announcement team of Phillip Mottaz and Norman Kelsey
shared June announcements. Following worship there was an All Church Meeting to vote on our
statement of inclusion which won unanimously 52-0.
June 9 - Pentecost Sunday! There was a group scripture reading with Sandy Flemming, Sherri Perry,
Norman Kelsey, & Patty Kelsey. Pastor Steve’s sermon, “What’s Your Purpose,” based on John 14:8-17
(25-27)In prayer, Jesus reveals the disciples’ purpose: why he chose them, taught them, and sent them;
which really is our purpose as followers of Christ and as the church. Special Music was shared by Jeff
Thomas, “In The Arms of God.”
June 16 - Happy Father’s Day and Trinity Sunday! All the gentlemen in attendance received a special
gift. Pastor Steve, Patty Kelsey, Andrew Esposo, Muffett Brinkman, and Daniella Lake, returned from
Annual Conference in time to celebrate Father figures of all kinds with the congregation. Pastor Steve
shared a moment with the children about answering their call from God, using his cell phone. Scripture
was read by new Dad, Joe Forgione. “Here I am! Send Me!,” was the title of the sermon that was based
on Isaiah 6:1-8, shared by guest preacher, Andrew Esposo, who shared his call from Jesus to fight for social
justice with the his unique gifts. Norman Kelsey shared special music, “Sunny,” following Andrew’s
moving message. Following worship, we were blessed with a delicious and bountiful luncheon from the
Ancheta Family, in celebration of Brandon’s birthday, Bryan’s High School Graduation and Father’s Day!
June 23 - This morning we celebrated Choir Recognition Sunday! The Chancel Choir blessed us with
beautiful music, from their anthems, to chorale responses. Jodi Smith read scripture as a representative of
the choir. Pastor Steve’s sermon, “A Major Disruption,” was based on Luke 8:26-39. Not everyone is ready
for the sick to be made well; how might the healing power of Christ disrupt the neighborhood? Special
Music was shared by Shaun Vieten on guitar, Libeck Kadu-Vieten & Jeff Thomas, vocals. Pastor Steve
gave thanks to all members of the choir, Jeff & Roger. Each member of the choir received a bag of
goodies and thank you note.
(cont. from cover page)
As we work for that goal, we will continue to do our work here, in our congregation. We will be a church
that embraces and celebrates all who come to worship and serve. We will be a place of healing and
reconciliation. We will be a place where God’s Word is taught. We will be a place where lives are
changed.
Here’s to a great 12 months…and many more beyond that.
In Christ,
Pastor Steve
3. Mark Your Calendars!
Sunset Socials
Wednesday, July 10th
Meet at 7:30 in the Lounge
Non-dairy options too!
We all scream for ice cream!
Hawaiian Night
Friday, August 23rd
6:30 - 9:00 PM on the Patio
Entree & Beverage Provided
You bring sides and dessert.
Dress in your tropical duds!
Polynesian entertainment!
Concerts in the Park
TICKET TO RIDE
A Tribute to the Beatles
Saturday, July 20th
7:00 PM
Meet at the Church North Lot
at 6:30 PM to walk to the park.
United Methodist
Dodger Night
Saturday, August 3rd
6:10 PM
Organized by The West District
Order your tickets online:
calpacumc.formstack.com
Cost & Deadlines: $30 through July 8
Contact: Polly Sblan (562) 429-1441
4. What’s Happening in July?
Wednesday, July 10th - Ice Cream Social! Meet
at 7:30 PM in the Lounge. (Non Dairy options too!)
Sunday, July 14th- Mission Sunday! Bring
non-perishable foods for the Food Pantry. Rice
Requested. Please bring a few extra dollars for your
offering!
Sunday, July 7th - Welcome Back BBQ for
Pastor Steve! Following worship! On the Patio
Courtyard! Wear red, white or blue! Entertainment,
good food, and fellowship!
PB&J PROJECT
Thursday, July 18th
7:00 PM
Lounge
Please join us in making 150
sandwiches for the homeless &
hungry in our community.
Can’t make it but want to help?
Host a PB&J Project!
TEA FELLOWSHIP
Friday, July 26th
12:00 PM
Sunday, July 7th
Welcome Back Pastor Steve!
Celebration to follow out on the Patio! Plan to stay for a BBQ!
Friday, July 26th - Tea Fellowship at Shirley
Kurushima’s Home. Please RSVP.
Tuesday, July 23rd - Ruth Circle meet at 7:30
PM in the Lounge.
Thursday, July 18th - PB & J Project meets in
the Lounge at 7:00 PM.
Sunday, July 21st - Methodist Men Fellowship!
5:00 PM. Home of the Eshlemans!
Sunday Morning Adult Bible Study
Meet in Boyer Chapel! 9:00 AM - 9:45 AM
Led by Sandra Smith on the 3rd, 4th, & 5th Sundays
Thursday, July 4th - Independence Day
Holiday. Office is closed today and July 5th.
At the Home of The Kelseys
Join us for a lovely time of
fellowship and time to get to know
one another. Tea time is not just
for the ladies! Guys welcome too!
Iced Tea will be on the menu!
RSVP
WELCOME BACK
Pastor Steve!
Sunday, July 7th
Following Worship
Patio Courtyard
Please be sure to stay after
worship for a yummy BBQ and
Celebrate Pastor Steve’s
reappointment!
Volunteers needed to decorate,
set up, grill & clean up!
Sunday, July 21st at 5:00 PM
Home of the Eshleman’s
Methodist Men are meeting monthly for
fellowship, Pastor led devotion, and brief business meeting.
Saturday, July 20th - NOHO SUMMER NIGHT!
The Beatles a Tribute! 6:30 meet at church.
5. Lesson 1
Empowered To Be A Community
Lesson Scripture Acts Chapter 2: verses 1 – 17
Background Scripture Acts Chapter 2
Lesson 2
Expansion Of The Community
Lesson Scripture Acts Chapter 6: verses 1 –5 and verses 8 - 15
Background Scripture Chapter 6: verses 1 –15 and Chapter 8: verses 1 – 18
Lesson 3
Transformed To Witness To The Community
Lesson Scripture Acts Chapter 9: verses 1 – 11 and 16 - 19
Background Scripture Acts Chapter 9: verses 1 – 31
Lesson 4
Commissioned By The Community
Lesson Scripture Acts Chapter 13: verses 1 –12
Background Scripture Acts Chapter 13
Join Us for Adult Bible Study
2nd, 4th & 5th Sundays
9:00 AM in Boyer Chapel
Led by Sandra Smith
This is a four-lesson series focusing on scriptures from Acts:
SATURDAY, August 10th
9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Lunch Break Included!
Bible Point:
“I can endure all these things through the
power of Christ who strengthens me!”
Phillippians 4:13
MARK YOUR CALENDARS FOR
VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL 2019
Kids will discover their strength in God!
$15 per child
$10 per additional siblings
INCLUDES: Epic music, crafty crafts, heroic recreation,
fantastic Bible stories!
T-shirt, keepsakes & Lunch!
We are taking kids on an awesome adventure
alongside some of their favorite Bible heroes and
discover the qualities that make us truly heroic in God!
Please invite your friends kids,
neighbors kids, as well as cousins and siblings! It’s
going to be SUPER FUN!
6. BEDSIDE ADVENTURE KITS
By Patty Kelsey
Our August Mission Project is:
Discovery Arts Bedside Adventure Kits!
Discovery Arts brings music, dance, art and drama to
children with cancer, serious blood disorders and life
threatening illness while they are receiving treatment.
For those children who are too ill to participate in the
group program, a Discovery Arts team member brings
the magic directly to their bedside for their very own Arts
Adventure.
Bedside Adventure Kits are custom packaged kits, filled
with a variety of age appropriate art materials and fun
creative projects. Each and every child receives a Bedside
Adventure Kit, additional kits are also provided to the
hospitals for children to enjoy when Discovery Arts is not
on site.
We will be making 100 boxes filled to the brim
with art supplies!
SUPPLIES WISH LIST
(* - means they are in need of this item)
*Safety Scissors
*Crayons
*Elmer’s Glue (bottles & sticks)
Paint Brushes
*Crayola Paint Palettes
Markers (8 ct.)
Coloring Books
Construction Paper
Small Play-doh Tubs
Card Games
Mini Art Projects
Assorted Stick-on items:
Pipe Cleaners, Wood, Foam, Fuzzy balls, googly eyes,
sparkles, sequins, beads, buttons, feathers.
Bring art supplies throughout July & August!
Drop them off on the table next to Boyer Chapel.
We will assemble kits on Sunday, September 1st with a
Prep Day on Saturday, August 31st.
Thank you for your support!
SHOP BACK TO SCHOOL SALES NOW!
STAPLES
.50 cent bottles of glue
2-pack of safety scissors for $1.27
OFFICE DEPOT
.50 cent Crayola Crayons (24 ct.)
MOST DIFFICULT ITEM
Crayola Paint Palettes
We request that if you see these 8 color - trays of
washable water colors for $2 or less, to please
purchase them.
Target has them online for $1.99 each.
or the UP&UP brand for $1.79 each.
Please do not buy the dollar store brand
as it does not make color.
7. 2019 CALIFORNIA PACIFIC ANNUAL CONFERENCE
Ken Ellis received the
Bishop’s Award!
Patty Kelsey, Pastor Steve & Muffett Brinkman
Worship & Plenary - Day 1
Daniella Lake shares scripture at the closing worship service!
Day Two worship led by
LGBTQ Task Force!
8. One of the resolutions passed was written in part by one of our young members Andrew Esposo. Andrew
and the Philippines Taskforce helped pass a resolution that members of Cal-Pac would now join the call
of our Philippines Central Conference siblings for a congressional hearing to investigate how over $180
million U.S. tax dollars are being used in the Philippines. He and his team also got 100+ selfies out of this
effort, including from current and former members of our North Hollywood family.
Another amazing feat accomplished this year was the election of our General Conference and
Jurisdictional delegates. A total of 30 delegates – two of which include our former interim pastor Rev.
Allison Mark, and our current member Andrew Esposo.
Two worship services also especially stood out, one of the services led by clergy and laity of the
LGBTQIA+ communities and another that was led by our young people. In the LGBTQIA+ service,
Andrew helped lead a guided meditation. While in the youth sending off service, our young member
Daniella Lake led our conference in prayer. Another young person in the service, Claire Williams,
expressed “We are often referred to as the future of the Church, but we’re here now and we’re passionate
now, and we long to lead and learn alongside all of you now.”
We are called into action by God when he holds us as witness to injustices that continue to separate God’s
love from God’s people. And as we move towards tomorrow, let us continue to listen and learn from one
another as there will be many more struggles along the path that we will have to face and figure out
together.
For all the official minutes, livestreams of worship services and plenary sessions, full list of elected
delegates for General and Jurisdictional Conference, go to: http://www.calpacumc.org/ac2019/
FAITH IN ACTION: UPDATES FROM
ANNUAL CONFERENCE 2019
By Andrew Esposo
(description of photo) Members of NoHo FUMC, old and current supporting the call for a
congressional human rights hearing on the Philippines.
Songs of praise and celebration ushered in the Spirit of God
and enlivened the hearts of some 1,200 United Methodists
gathered at the University of Redlands (Redlands, CA) for
the 35th Annual Session of the California-Pacific
Conference of The United Methodist Church on
Wednesday June 12 – Saturday June 15, 2019.
The theme #ISeeANewChurch was highlighted throughout
the conference whether by resolutions and recommendations
for action that passed in legislative sessions, conversations to
plan and understand where God is leading churches in Cal-
Pac after the special General Conference, the elections of
laity and clergy delegates for General and Jurisdictional
conferences happening in 2020, or through the amazing
worship services offered.
9. The Rev. Dr. Joey McDonald Education Grant Fund
The McDonald Family formed the McDonald Scholarship Fund in memory of Rev. Dr. Joey McDonald,
who passed away after 28 years of ministry at North Hollywood First United Methodist Church. This
fund provides Education Grants for people working towards a college degree. The grants will be issued
up to the amount of $1,000.00 per year, per student, until the fund is exhausted.
Students are encouraged to apply for this educational grant for the 2019-2020 school year. The Education
Grant is a non-competitive grant. It carries no academic requirement or financial need threshold.
To qualify the student must meet the following criteria:
1. The student must be a member or related to an active church member or active constituent of
North Hollywood First United Methodist Church.
2. The student must be seeking a college-level degree (associate, bachelor, master, or doctorate). This
must be their first degree at each level. Students seeking a second bachelor or master degree will
not be eligible.
3. The student must be actively enrolled at a regionally accredited college or university in the United
States.
4. A student may continue to apply through the progression of their education (associate to bachelor
to master to doctorate).
To apply for the grant students must submit a written request by July 1st of the grant year. Applications
may be downloaded from www.nohofumc.org. The application will include applicant’s personal contact
information, relationship to North Hollywood FUMC, educational goals, and verification of enrollment.
The grants will be awarded by September 15th each year. The grant checks will be sent to directly to the
school before the Fall term. Students are welcome to reapply for a grant in the subsequent grant year.
The family formed the educational grant fund to support students pursuing post-secondary education, a
cause about which Dr. McDonald was very passionate. The fund was established with donations from
friends and family who wished to memorialize him. If you want to donate to the fund, please contact the
church office for details of the J.K. McDonald Memorial Fund.
*On Thursday, June 13th, The Wesley 8th Grade presented NoHo FUMC with a $1000 gift towards the
Dr. Joey K. McDonald Grant. A matching gift of $1000 will be sent to the church in July. We are grateful
for the generosity of the Wesley 8th graders.
10. Wishing you many blessings on your birthday!
Love, Your Church Family
July 1 Alexander Parnell
July 2 September Sucher
July 4 Betty Hogarth
July 5 Joyce Cunningham
July 9 Heemanshu Bhagat
July 9 Byron Hayes
July 12 Steven Ellis
July 12 Chris Koenigsaecker
July 13 Sage Doelitzsch
July 18 Francis Nyaforh
July 23 DeAnne Hayes
July 26 Wendy Neckels
July 28 Kevin Ellis
July 28 Roger Eshleman
July 28 Gary Solt
July 31 David Cox
Bill Varney is still at Burbank Rehabilitation
Center after a number of health struggles. He
is looking forward to sit in his spot in the third
row pew soon.
Kathi Ellis has been at Burbank Rehabilitation,
receiving antibiotics intravenously. She will be
done with treatment soon.
Charles Minetree's cousin, Eric "Andy"
Anderson, has pancreatic cancer for the second
time.
Tracy Hagan and her medical team have
decided to try chemotherapy. The cancer has
spread throughout the left side of her head and
neck. She is faithful and living with gratitude.
Please lift up her three children, Alyssa, Allison,
& Tristen Ritter.
Prayers for our nation’s leaders and our world
leaders. Prayers for peace and for our UMC.
Silas, 9 years old, was hospitalized with
pyomyositis. A rare bacterial infection of the
skeletal muscles. Silas, had surgery scheduled
for June 24th to clean out infection. They did
find staph infection in his hip.
HOW TO MAKE A PRAYER REQUEST?
We have a number of ways to pray for you,
both public and private.
Here’s how to submit a prayer request
Email pattyfumc@gmail.com. Patty will submit your prayers to the prayer chain which is not public. A
small group of prayer warriors lifts up your concerns. If you would like your prayer to be added to the
weekly eblast or monthly newsletter, let Patty know in your email request. You can also drop a prayer
into the offering plate, or in the church office mail slot. As well as calling us at (818) 763-8231. Pastor
Steve can also pray for you in person after worship or you can make an appointment with him.
11. LECTIONARY READINGS FOR JULY
July 7 Third Sunday After Pentecost. Green.
2 Kings 2:1-2, 6-14; Ps. 77:1-2, 11-20 (UMH 798); Gal. 5:1, 13-25; Luke 9:51-62
July 14 Fourth Sunday After Pentecost. Green.
Amos 7:7-17; Ps. 82 (UMH 804); Col. 1:1-14; Luke 10:25-37
July 21 Fifth Sunday After Pentecost. Green.
Amos 8:1-12; Ps. 52 or 82 (UMH 804); Col. 1:15-28; Luke 10:38-42
July 28 Sixth Sunday After Pentecost. Green.
Hos. 1:2-10; Ps. 85 (UMH 806); Col. 2:6-15 (16-19); Luke 11:1-13
Sunday Worship Services at 10:30 AM in the Main Sanctuary
Adult Sunday School meets 3rd, 4th & 5th Sunday at 9:00 AM in Boyer Chapel
Children’s Sunday School meets at 10:30 AM in the Community Room/Nursery
Children’s Time will be on hiatus for Summer Break
Communion will be served on Sunday, July 7th
8:15 AM Worship Services in Boyer Chapel
July 7 - Pastor Steve *communion July 14 - Norman Kelsey
July 21 - Patty Kelsey July 28 - Sandra Smith
Please have your articles for the Good News to the church office by July 17th for the August 2019 publication
or email them to pattyfumc@gmail.com
If you no longer wish to receive this publication, please contact the church office
or return this address label noting that we are to discontinue sending it. Thank you.
POSTMASTER - Please send changes of address to:
First United Methodist Church of North Hollywood
4832 Tujunga Avenue, North Hollywood, CA 91601
“NoHoFUMC is a community that practices the all-inclusive and transforming love of God as modeled by the
life and ministry of Jesus Christ. We celebrate our diversity in race, ethnicity, marital status, sexual
orientation, gender identity, age, gender, ability, citizenship, and socioeconomic status. Moved by the Holy
Spirit, we welcome all people into the full participation of the life of the church.”