SUMC Sidelines

Southside UMC Calendar - Weekly & Monthly Views

Mon, 26 Jan 2009 15:05:33 -0500

View the church calendar by the week below or CLICK HERE FOR THE MONTHLY VIEW. Email your church meetings and events to Sarah Troup at s.troup@southsidemethodist.org.

The Weekly View

Attention JOY Group Members...It's Christmas in July!

Wed, 28 Jul 2010 09:29:56 -0400

It is time to shop for our Christmas Project—Samaritan's Shoe Box Drive. The member who brings the most wins three prizes! Bring your items to the first JOY Group Meeting on September 13th. The following items are needed:

pens
pencils
crayons
markers
writing pads
coloring books
socks
caps (hats)
balls
dolls
yo-yo's
jump ropes
slinkys
sunglasses
combs
matchbox cars
tooth brushes
tooth paste
soap
wash clothe
hair clip
toy jewelry
flash lights

700 Little Ones Expected in SUMC's VBS Guatemala

Tue, 27 Jul 2010 20:22:52 -0400

Wow! God works in amazing ways! I just learned that next week during our Mission trip to Guaremala, the VBS Team will have the opportunity to host VBS for not just 300 children but also for 400 more children in another village - that's 700 children we will share the love of Christ with in a very real way!

Thanks to your generosity, we have plenty of crafts, small toys and game supplies but there is a real need for personal hygiene items for the care packages. We would like to give each child a bar of soap, washcloth, comb or brush, hair clips & ponytail holders for girls, nail clippers, small shampoo or lotions, toothrush and toothpaste.

If you have any of these items on hand or would like to pick up one or two on your next dollar store, Wal Mart, Target or Grocery trip that would be great! Better yet, would you search those drawers for travel size items brought back home from hotel stays or summer vacations?

Any donations are greatly appreciated and can be dropped off at any team members home or the SUMC front office (open today-Thu; 9-3pm.) If you are attending Summer Salads tomorrow night, you may drop your donations in the boxes located near the Welcome Tables in the FLC. We will be packing up all donations on Friday morning.

Thank you for helping spread the good news and hope of Christ by being a part of this SUMC Mission. And thank you for your prayers as we prepare now and during the next week!

~ Angie Cosper

Southside Men - The Blog

Thu, 22 Apr 2010 08:42:55 -0400

Greetings in the Name of Christ,

In an effort to expand our ministry to men, as well as widening the ways in which we inform, encourage, equip, educate, edify, and enrich our men, we have a new blog for the men of Southside. It’s simply called, Southside Men. I’m very excited about it!

First of all, it will be another way to remind the men involved in our weekly discipleship small group ministry, The Baxter Boys, what lesson is coming up for that week. It will also serve as another means in which we can notify our men concerning upcoming events, service opportunities, etc.

However, what I’m most excited about is using the blog to introduce our brothers to one another by having a “Southside Brother Highlight.” This will provide an opportunity for one of our brothers to share a little about himself with the rest of our men at Southside. Sometimes, with a church our size, it can be difficult getting to know the folks you don’t often or routinely see. My hope is that getting to know some of our brothers by way of the Southside Men blog can help us with that.

The blog will also be a source of inspiration, motivation, ideas, encouragement, etc., for our men so that they might continue becoming the Christian men that God has called them to be – as individuals, husbands, fathers, men at work, men in church, men in the community, men in every sphere of life.

Please click the following link which will take you to the new Southside Men blog. Once you are there, you can click on the email subscription button at the top of the righthand column. Once you sign up, you will be notified every time the blog is updated. (PS – you will not be overwhelmed with updates) Here’s the link: Southside Men

As always, please contact me if you have any thoughts, needs, or questions. You can reach me at d.tedder@southsidemethodist.org or 396-2676.

To learn more about Southside Men, please check out the three labels at the top of the blog: About Our History, Men’s Discipleship, and Other Ways to Connect.

The Lord bless you,
Dale

How Your Open Box of Bandaids Can Make a Difference

Wed, 14 Jul 2010 12:19:30 -0400

Did you know that 30 SUMC members are traveling to Guatemala to be the hands and feet of Christ? The team consists of 16 Youth and 14 adults. The team will join with the Mission2Guatemala program that has established relationships with the Mayans and helps coordinate incoming mission teams to prepare and serve the needs of the people of Guatemala. Daily activities include: hosting Vacation Bible School, roofing, painting, and providing a medical clinic.

The team begins packing supplies next Sunday, so if each of our church family and friends grabs one item from their homes or grocery store, we should be able to fill our 30 suitcases with supplies to leave with the Mayan individuals and medical clinics.

The Medical Team is collecting the following new and (opened, but unused) items in your home:

Band aids/bandages, dressings, etc.,

Antibiotics or anti-inflammatory meds or creams,

Thermometers,

BP cuffs,

Splints, and

New Medication: Chewable or liquid children's vitamins, and Ibuprofen, such as Motrin and Tylenol. (Oral medications must be sealed and new.)

Contact Stevie Schoof with questions at stevieschoof@comcast.net or 396-9935.

Contact

One hour that could change your family life...10 AM this Sunday, July 18th, FLC

Wed, 14 Jul 2010 12:12:00 -0400

This Sunday we will be learning about (and doing) Family Worship (or Family Devotions) during our Intergenerational Sunday school class in the Family Life Center.

The passing down of our faith is a very important theme that runs through the whole Bible. Parents (and grandparents) are encouraged to disciple their children and their children's children.

Yet, I have found that quite often folks don't practice Family Worship because they've never done it before. Or, they think that they are required to do it in a particular way. I believe that one of the key ways we learn to do something and get comfortable with it is simply by doing it.

Therefore, this Sunday morning I'll share a little about Family Worship, it's importance, my family's experience with it, etc. And then... we as individual families are going to "do" Family Worship. I'll provide an outline of possible components that families can do together so that they can experience this wonderful blessing from God.

As important as passing the baton of faith to our children is, equally as important is imparting the lasting memory of worshiping God together as a family. That will be a memory that remains in their hearts and minds all the days of their lives. It will also serve as a formative experience that will help them continue growing in the grace and knowledge of the Lord Jesus Christ.

See you Sunday,

Pastor Dale

Message from Angie...July & August Children's Sunday School

Wed, 02 Jun 2010 16:42:00 -0400

Summer Sunday School in July

Do you need to pick-up your children after 9am Worship? Parents can pick up completed Kindergarteners - completed 5th Graders in the FLC and completed PreK-3 and PreK- 4 in their regular Sunday School rooms on the 1st floor of the Children's Building.

Want to stay for Sunday School?

For Kindergarteners through 5th Graders: If you haven't had the opportunity to join us for one of the Intergenerational Sunday School Classes this summer, don't worry it's not too late. Each week is a different lesson so you won't be behind. Children, bring your parents (and grandparents too) to the FLC at 10am for a lesson and family activity. For PreK-3 and PreK-4 children: Sunday School continues in July in your regular rooms.
For parents attending other Sunday School Classes: Your children are welcome to attend with another family or childcare is available for K-5th in Room A105.

Summer Sunday School in August

To give our hard working teachers and volunteers a break and to prepare our hearts and minds for a energy filled, enthusiastic return to Sunday School in the Fall: In August, Children's Sunday School classes will be taking a break as well as several of the Adult classes - please check with your teacher to be sure. For children of parents attending a class that is meeting in August, childcare is available for all ages in Room A105 on the 1st floor of the Children's Building.

Nursery is available each Sunday from 8:30am-12noon for birth through rising PreK-3 children.

Questions? Please contact Angie Cosper 396-2676 x123

Message from Pastor Bruce regarding worship...

Wed, 09 Jun 2010 12:42:18 -0400

This Sunday, June 13th, we are going to open our Bibles together and "Jump into the Story!" I am going to show some ways in which the stories of the Bible can become more vibrant and vivid for each one of us. I think this is a crucial task for modern Christians; too often I hear the lament that studying the Bible is dull and/or boring. Perhaps it is. But the fault lies not with the scriptures, but with the way we approach them.

One of the reasons we find the Bible difficult to study is that we are far too easily distracted. We are pulled and tugged in a dozen different directions. Email, facebook, texting, mobile phones, twitter . . . you name it. There is a buzz that surrounds our lives these days. And it's not always helpful to our peace of mind. It is getting harder and harder to be present before God.

One of the symptoms of this is when we hurdle through life, always slightly behind the curve. We are often ill prepared for our time together as a family and as a church. We cut corners and very often trivialize the truly sacred moments of our lives with our inattentiveness.

This Sunday I have a simple request that help us all be more attentive to God: Show up to church ten minutes early. Give yourself time to put the little ones in the nursery and quietly walk to the sanctuary without having to rush. Take a moment to seat yourself, before the worship service begins, and ask God to quiet your heart and prepare yourself for worship. It will make your worship go deeper into the presence of God. You will lose your distractions and gain something far more important.

Memorial Garden at Southside UMC. Did you know...

Wed, 26 May 2010 14:56:03 -0400

The walled garden on the San Jose side of the Sanctuary is one of Southside's loveliest treasures. Enclosed on three sides by the Langley Chapel's chancel window and by gated brick walls, it is open to full view along the inside covered breeze way. The garden was constructed in1955 to be an outdoor sanctuary, a place of prayer, meditation, and remembrance. In 1999, it was officially named The Memorial Garden to designate that it was set aside in memory of deceased members whose plaques may be displayed on the breeze way wall and whose cremains may be interred on the church grounds. Several years ago, the garden took on new life as one of our youth adopted an area as his Eagle Scout project. The Butterfly Garden he created was not only beautiful for a season, it also inspired our gardeners to redesign, replant, and refurnish the entire landscape. The Memorial Garden, the Peace Pole Garden, and many walk way areas around the campus have been made into Memorial Gardens which are lovingly attended by faithful volunteers.

The next time you walk along the covered west wall take notice of the memorial plaques. There are currently fifty plaques in place and many others reserved for loved ones. Any church member may enter into a contract with the church for a memorial plaque for herself, himself, or for family members who may or may not be interred on the grounds. The legal paper work is in the main office with complete explanation of costs and regulations.

If you have questions, please contact Perry Davis at 733-1998, who is currently the Memorial Garden Administrator.

Youth Super Summer Sign-ups!

Wed, 02 Jun 2010 16:38:59 -0400

Sunday, June 6th, 6-8 pm, Family Life Center.

This is a must come event for all the youth to see what is going on this summer... Whether your summer consists of lazy pool days, working summer yard jobs or camp hopping frenzy, we in the Youth Department have ONE Goal - To Help you Grow in Your Relationship with the Lord by:

Praise God
Outreach to our Friends
Involved with other Believers
Need Christ!
Triumph in our Ministry!

So, what's going on that is so great? Come check it out! Here is some of the line-up:
Camp Leesburg, Youth Week and the Smaller World Cup including paintball, cosmic bowling, the famous Ichetucknee, VBS and afternoon bonanzas, Savannah Mission Trip, Guatemala Mission Trip, Dare 2BA Daniel Sunday School Challenge, Solace Closing Party, SNL – Sunday Night Live, Nathan Smith & Summer End Ski Party, T-shirt orders, Friday Beach Days, Chick-Fil-A Fellowship Nights, & More!

So, Youth and Youth Lovers, come Sunday and bring a side dish, family calendar, checkbook and insurance cards! All Youth must fill out a NEW medical release form and liability waiver.

Are you excited about what God has planned for the summer? Why don't you join us! The youth department has lots of painless ways you can help and we NEED your help! Drivers, Cooks, Chaperones, Prayer Partners, house lenders, camping gear owners, mission supporter & more. You don't have to have a Youth to show God's love. Call us and we will find the perfect fit for your gifts!

Love In Christ,

Amy Franks

FL United Methodist Children's Home 5th Sunday!

Wed, 26 May 2010 14:57:05 -0400

The Florida United Methodist Children's Home's mission is to empower children and families to experience God's love and care as revealed in the ministry of Jesus Christ. This ministry receives its major support through Fifth Sunday and Christmas offerings. Many persons faithfully give in order that this ministry may endure.

It is vital that the Home continue to receive steadfast support from local church congregations and individuals so that it may continue to thrive and serve some of Florida's neediest children. This year's remaining Fifth Sundays are:

May 30, 2010
August 29, 2010
October 31, 2010
Christmas Offering

Please join us in continuing our support of this great ministry to help the Florida United Methodist Children's Home continue its mission.

To learn more, visit the Florida United Methodist Children's Home Website.

Cleaning Out Your Closets & Drawers? Family Promise is collecting gently used clothes...

Wed, 28 Apr 2010 10:05:24 -0400

Family Promise of Jacksonville

Family Promise of Jacksonville is in need of specific sizes and genders listed below only. They ask that you please do not donate other sizes, as they do not have storage room. And please: gently-used or new clothing only: something you wouldn't mind receiving!
Family #1:

Mom: Misses 14 tops

Misses 14 capris, shorts

size 8 1/2 medium in shoes

11 year old girl: Girls 14 tops

Girls 14 capris, shorts

size 6 1/2 womens' closed-in flats, sandals

Family #2:

Mom:

XL Women's shirts, dressy (for work) and casual

Size 16 pants, shorts/capris

size 8 1/2 shoes

Baby:

3-6 months shorts

Family #3

Dad:

Men's XL shirts

Men's 36/38 pants, shorts

size 11 shoes, dressy and/or casual

Mom:

Women's med shirts

Size 9 pants/shorts

size 9 1/2-10 shoes

7 y.o. girl:

Girls size 4 or 5 clothing

Specifically school uniform stuff: red or white shirts

khaki skirts/shorts/pants

2 year old boy:

size 11-12 shoes

Boys 3T/4T clothing

size 8 shoes

Curious About the Mission2Guatemala? Click here to read more!

Thu, 22 Apr 2010 08:32:18 -0400

August 1st- 9th 2010

Southside United Methodist has the awesome privilege of partnering with Mission2Guatemala this summer.

This eight-day mission project will be a life changing experience for everyone involved! Our hosts, Manny and Cindy Batres began their mission organization due to the desire the had to help meet the needs of the Mayan people of Guatemala.

The SUMC mission group has several projects planned including roof work on the local schools in the Chisec, Guatemala area, medical clinics for the general area and VBS for the children. The group will share the gospel with hundreds of children and adults each day!

Your Financial and Prayer Support is Crucial to the Success of our Mission.

We need $6000 to purchase the building/roofing supplies in Guatemala. Each member of our team is working to raise $1000 each to cover food, housing and plane tickets to get to Guatemala. In addition, we have VBS supplies and medical materials we are collecting. Most of all, we are praying that the Lord will bless our team and feel the Lord's presence as we serve.

Please pray for our safety in travel, no holdup with passports, for direction with our medical team.

Anyone who wants to support our trip can scroll down to donate online or send a check to:
Southside United Methodist and mark in the memo line – Guatemala Mission
You can drop this check on the offering plate or mail to SUMC at 3120 Hendricks Ave, Jacksonville, FL 32207

Donate VBS Supplies!

Donations for our Vacation Bible School can be delivered to the church office any time before July 1st.
This donations will be carried as baggage with our team and include:
1.   Donate a suitcase (65" diameter that can be left there with our supplies)
2.   Fuji INSTAX Mini Twin Pack Instant Film – we want to provide a picture to every child who comes to VBS and we are expecting over 300 children to walk up that day!
3.   Hard candy and balloons
4.   Deflated new soccer balls and pumps
5.   Sponsor a suitcase for $25! It costs each team member $25 per bag to just fly it there!

The Mission Team

Our team is made up of 30 highschool and adult volunteers. For the majority of our team members, this is their first time to serve on an overseas mission trip and the impact it will have on both our Chisec friends as well as our own team members from Southside is nothing short of a miracle. We are so blessed to be given this opportunity.

Additional Information

If you wish for any more information on how you can help our team, please contact the mission trip coordinator Amy Franks at 635-4721 or email at a.franks@southsidemethodist.org.

Baxter Boys this week

Sun, 25 Apr 2010 08:01:50 -0400

Click here to learn what's happening in the Baxter Boys this week and beyond.

Blessings,
Dale

Submit a Prayer Request

Thu, 15 Apr 2010 07:51:30 -0400

Dear Brother and Sister in Christ,

I'm writing to ask you how I can pray for you. One of the great privileges of the Christian life is interceding in prayer for others. I believe it's a vital way to serve our brothers and sisters in Christ.

Several times each week I will be in Southside's Langley Chapel for the purpose of praying for the needs of our church family – spiritual, physical, relational, etc. If you have a prayer request, I would be honored to pray for you regarding it.

Here's how this works: All you have to do is email me at d.tedder@southsidemethodist.org and share your prayer request. Now, while I don't need every last detail of your life, the more specific you are with me, the more specifically I can pray for you.

Also, with an occasional exception, I would like to limit these prayer requests to the folks of our church family (or who are part of one of our ministries) – the people to whom and with whom I minister. In other words, if we could keep "my next-door neighbor's doctor's sister's co-worker's best friend's aunt Bessie or uncle Harry" sorts of requests to a minimum, that would give me more opportunity to pray for the ministries and members of Southside.

Lastly, please know that I will keep each and every request completely confidential.

I look forward to praying with and for you. May God richly bless us as we seek his grace.

Blessings,
Pastor Dale

Join the Study Sisters for a Special Program, - Wednesday, April 21st, 6 PM

Fri, 16 Apr 2010 13:56:11 -0400

Victoria one of our special friends from "Suds of Love" will give her testimony, "Recovering from Drug Addiction" next Wednesday night, April 21 at the Study Sisters Bible Study. We will meet after dinner in the Discovery classroom upstairs at 6 PM.

Please plan to invite everyone to hear Victoria's testimony of hope and healing!

Play Southside UMC's Minute to Win It - Wednesday, April 21st, 5:45 PM, FLC!

Fri, 16 Apr 2010 13:44:41 -0400

Join us for fellowship at this zany evening of fellowship, hosted by our "Guy" Pat Murphy. Contestants will participate in games that must be completed in one minute. For a chance to participate, place your name in the Southside Minute to Win It box in the Family Life Center on Wednesday night.

To practice the games that will be played, follow this link and click on the these games:

Breakfast Scramble

Candy Elevator

Hanky Panky

Johnny Applestack

Magic Carpet Ride

Movin' On Up

Mega Bubble

Nimble Thimble

Stick the Landing

Wheel of a Deal

Men's Discipleship at Southside

Fri, 16 Apr 2010 11:08:24 -0400

Pat Morley, founder of the ministry to men called, Man in the Mirror, has said something along these lines: “However many men are in your church, that’s how many men are in your men’s ministry.”

It has taken me awhile to fully understand and even embrace that idea. However, I have come to slowly wrap my mind around that idea and now completely agree with it. For many churches, the men’s ministry consists of those dear brothers who attend a monthly Saturday morning breakfast and quick devotion followed by spending the rest of the day doing “chores” around the church (for which, that church is greatly blessed). I know that I had a similar view of what or who constitutes a men’s ministry; I simply substituted men’s weekly discipleship small groups in the place of the weekly breakfast.

Ministry to men, however, ought to be thought of more comprehensively than that. There are certainly components which, in my opinion, should be present and operative in a men’s ministry, yet a one-dimensional definition of men’s ministry is counter-productive and, ultimately, will not yield very much good and lasting fruit for the kingdom.

Southside’s ministry to men, as we shall see in this post, (as well as the next one), runs the gamut of activities and programs all designed to help build up our men in their faith and to equip them to be a blessing to others, in every sphere of their lives.

Click here to read the whole post.

Announcing a new ministry at Southside: SpiritSound!

Thu, 15 Apr 2010 07:50:34 -0400

Have you been searching for a way to serve our church while developing a new skill? We are looking for a team of volunteers to provide technical support during our worship services on Sunday morning.

Responsibilites will include: mixing the instruments and vocalists during the worship music time (9:00 and 11:00 services), controlling the audio level of any videos that are presented, and controlling the audio of anyone that is speaking with a microphone during the worship services.

Training will be provided: by Florida Sound on May 15.

If you feel called to this ministry and would like to learn more about this team, please contact Gigi Johns at 349-4029 ~ or email at jjandgg@hotmail.com.

History of Southside Men

Wed, 14 Apr 2010 18:12:14 -0400

Our local church, Southside United Methodist Church, was born on Easter Sunday, 1950. It was on that day that the men and women, boys and girls of Southside assembled together as an official congregation of the Methodist Church to lift their hearts, minds, and voices in worship to God for his grace and goodness in bringing them together. It was also an opportunity for them to commit themselves to the service of Christ and his kingdom.

The men’s ministry, interestingly, was actually born the day before.

It was on that preceding day, Holy Saturday, that the men of Southside decided to meet together to get everything ready for the next day’s events. These faithful, servant-hearted brothers also thought that it would be a good idea to meet a few hours early for the purpose of cooking breakfast and then enjoying it and fellowship together. Southside men have been meeting every Holy Saturday since then for our annual “Men’s Easter Breakfast.”

I share this bit of history to communicate that this precious tradition of Southside men represents how long Southside’s commitment to men has existed. It also shows how far back our men’s commitment to Christ and his local church, Southside UMC, actually goes.

Much of today’s literature that’s devoted to men’s ministry is saturated with tales of woe regarding the absence of men in the church at large. Men, they tell us, have been alienated from feeling welcome or comfortable in church settings for a variety of reasons. Perhaps there’s some truth to that in some churches. I have served in some settings where the evidence did appear to point in that direction.

Yet Southside has been blessed by the men (and, of course, the women) who have stepped up in countless ways over the years to be used by God in the building up of his body. From administrative leadership to teaching Sunday school classes to serving the community, Southside men have a rich history of following Christ, which has left an enduring legacy to the Southside men of today.

I give thanks for those men of God who have gone before us. May the men of Southside in each and every generation faithfully pursue our United Methodist Church’s mission to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world.

Soli Deo Gloria,
Dale Tedder
(April 14, 2010)

Welcome to Renovate Your Life

Wed, 06 Jan 2010 10:19:45 -0500

Renovate – to restore to good condition; to make new or as if new again; to repair. to reinvigorate; refresh; to revive. (from www.Dictionary.com)

The name of my new and improved blog is, Renovate Your Life, because I think it's catchy. Seriously, and much more importantly, I believe that it's the best description of what my calling is: to help people become more like Christ in every sphere of their lives... personally, in their marriages, as parents, as church members, as employees or employers, as neighbors, etc., etc. . This blog is about the best that I can do to represent my "real life" ministry in an online format.

I believe that God has called me to help the people entrusted to my care to renovate (restore, renew, repair, refresh, revive, and reinvigorate) their lives so that they might become more and more conformed to the likeness of Jesus Christ (for the purpose of glorifying God and bearing much, good, and lasting fruit in every sphere of their lives for the sake of Christ and his Kingdom). (Yikes, that was a long sentence!)

The primary ways I seek to fulfill this calling at Southside are in and through...

Teaching (Bible studies, small groups, etc.)
Discipling (one-to-one or in small groups with the men of my church)
Counseling (individuals, premarital, marriage, etc.)
Coaching (one-to-one with the men of my church)
Mentoring (one-to-one with the men of my church)
Spiritually Directing (men and women in a variety of settings)
Leading (and developing folks to lead small groups, Bible studies, as well as various committees of our church family)
Writing (devotionals, sermons, articles, blog posts, Twitter, Facebook, newsletters, etc.)

All of this continues to be a work in progress, but this is presently how I understand God's call in my life. Those are the ways of ministry by which I seek to serve. My primary emphases in those ministry settings are:

Bible Study
Men's Issues
Marriage Issues
Family Issues
Parenting Issues
Christian Living (Sanctification)
Spiritual Formation
Counseling Issues
Coaching Issues
And lots of "etc" that I'm still working out. If you have any questions or suggestions, please don't hesitate to contact me at DaleTedder@yahoo.com. (I need all the help I can get.)

About My Blog

The short answer to, "What is the purpose of this blog?" would be to say: "Everything I just wrote above about my calling is what I'm trying to put in blog-form." I greatly desire to educate, equip, encourage, enrich, edify, and empower any and everyone who reads the posts on my blog. I truly pray that many things on the blog will be found helpful, whether it's learning how to trust God in daily life, overcoming anger, gaining an insight about how to disciple a new believer in Christ, learning a new parenting idea, how to exercise a particular spiritual discipline, or how to be a faithful Christian at work (just to name a few). Christ wants every sphere of our lives. He wants all of us. Therefore, we need a total renovation.

First Things First: How to Become a Christian

The first step to renovating your life is God's work. That is, through the person and finished work of his Son Jesus Christ, and by the power of his Holy Spirit, God redeems and recreates us. This is essential. Any personal development, counseling, coaching, etc., that does not include this as the top priority is simply external window dressing. It's temporal and fleeting change at best, and thus, will lead to a life of frustation, and an eternity of utter ruin and misery. Your part in that first step of renovating your life is to take the trust you have in yourself and place it in Christ alone for what he has already done for you. But that's just the beginning. The rest of your life is one of humility, gratitude, and joyful obedience fueled by the power and guidance of God's Spirit which, with your participation, will enable you to have the life that you desire and that God desires for you – one that glorifies God and one that leads you to look more like the Lord Jesus Christ. This is our ultimate renovation.

Well, that's about it. If you would like to check out my blog, Renovate Your LIfe, you may click here. (The new and improved blog will be launched on Monday, January 4, 2010.)

PS - If you would like to learn more about why pastors ought to blog, I offer this this excellent article by Pastor Mark Roberts, regarding the value of "blogging pastors." See also: Six Reasons Pastors Should Blog by Abraham Piper

Blessings,
Pastor Dale

Last Chance to Order Easter Lilies!

Fri, 05 Mar 2010 13:47:29 -0500

Festival of Favorite Anthems ~ March Madness

Mon, 01 Mar 2010 14:16:34 -0500

Festival of Favorite Anthems

Sunday, March 21, 2010

11 AM Service

Sissy Moore, Narrator

The Chancel Choir

Jon O. Carlson, conductor

Charlotte Miller, organ

In May of 2008, the Chancel Choir members were given a list of their sixty-four favorite anthems. The anthems were seeded, bracketed and represented four areas, north, south, east and west, like the National Basketball Association Tournament held in March and called March Madness.

The Chancel Choir members went through several rounds of voting to establish the eight most favored anthems. On Sunday, March 29, 2009, the Chancel Choir presented the eight top anthems. On Sunday, March 21, 2010, you will hear in the 11 AM Service, the next eight anthems (favorites 9-15) Round 2, as voted on by the Chancel Choir. We will start with number fifteen and work down to the ninth most favorite anthem. You won’t want to miss this musical presentation by the Chancel Choir.

Weekly Devotional ~ One Thing: Resentment

Tue, 23 Feb 2010 12:30:56 -0500

The past few weeks we have been looking what kind of thing God is calling us to release. Those things have been – for the most part – the kind of stuff we would gladly be rid of. Barriers . . . shackles . . . impediments that restrict our freedom. Who wouldn't want them out of the way?

And who doesn't want to be healed? I think just about everyone longs to be integrated, whole, and healthy. Granted, sometimes we are unaware of what's broken in our lives; identifying the need can take some courage. But when the need is clear . . . what a relief it is to be made whole.

This Sunday, we are going to look at something that is not quite so easily released. The theme is Resentment.

Most everyone knows that resentment is toxic. After all, who aspires to go through life, eaten up with anger and bitterness? There is no peace of mind. It is mired in the past and anxious about the future. It is the lifestyle of despair.

And it is hard to give up. Very hard indeed.

Our resentments are some of our most prized possessions. They are very close to us and to our self-understanding. Through our resentments, we prop up our lagging self-esteem. We account for all the injustices and personal violations that have been visited upon us. Our resentments make our failures and disappointments tolerable. After all, "They did it to me. This isn't my fault."

While resentment is a crutch, it is also a tool. Politicians and rabble-rousers down through the ages have found that it is an excellent way to incite a mob, mobilize a social class, and turn out the vote. The technique is quite simple: create a scapegoat and fan the flames of resentment. In the short run, the politics of anger are always more effective than the politics of hope. It's easier to be against something than for something.

Resentment is at the heart of racism. Coupled with fear, it twists and distorts our understanding of each other. "Those People" are no longer merely strangers, they are enemies.

In these cases, resentment is artificial and clearly false. The need for repentance is obvious. However, whether resentment is artificial or legitimate, the effects upon us are the same. And the longer we live under its spell, the more we are addicted to its allure.

The scripture verse for this Sunday is Luke 15:25-32. This is the second act of the parable of the Prodigal Son. It's a story brimming with bitterness and anger. It's also a story that remains unfinished. Before you come to church this Sunday ask yourself some questions:

How have I been wronged in my life? Who did it?
What have been the consequences for me?
What am I still angry about?

Jesus taught that it is critical for us to clear our lives of resentment before we can properly worship God. (Matthew 5:21-26) He also taught that when we our resentments consume us, we are in danger of begrudging God's generosity (Matthew 20:1-16). What does it mean – in the real world that we work and live in – when the first are made last and the last first? Is God fair?

God bless you on your Lenten journey!

- Bruce

Weekly Lenten Devotion ~ Healing 2/24/10

Dear Friends,

Lent is upon us! I hope you have accepted our "One Thing" challenge and entered into a season of spiritual reflection and discernment . What is the next step for you to take in your journey with God? What is the one thing that you need to release? What do you need to take up? Are you being led to adopt a spiritual discipline that will make these changes last?

I have no expectation that you have suddenly resolved all of these questions at once. Perhaps for some of us, this will unfold quite naturally. You may have already been wrestling with these questions; Lent will be a time of confirmation for you. However, for many of us, it will take some time before we discover that "next step." For some of us, answers come slowly.

One of the reasons for this is that there are so many different directions God can take us. During our Lenten gatherings, we are going to explore some of these possible outcomes.

This Sunday we are going to have a Service of Healing at our 9:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. services. In recent years, we have had an occasional healing service in the Langley Chapel on Sunday evenings. Those moments have truly been a blessing to everyone in attendance. And so we want to extend this blessing to the entire congregation.

But there is another reason for having a Service of Healing on Sunday morning. I believe that the "next step" for some of us will be just that: Divine Healing. God wants us to become whole. That is – for some of us – a matter of first priority.

The ministry of healing is frequently misunderstood by the church today. Because of that, it has been pushed aside from the week to week worship of the local church. Today, the most likely venue for a Service of Healing is through the ministry of a TV evangelist or a stadium revival. And there is nothing wrong with those settings. But we short change ourselves when the local church abandons the biblical charge:

Is anyone among you suffering? Let him pray. Is anyone cheerful? Let him sing praise. Is anyone among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer of faith will save the one who is sick, and the Lord will raise him up. And if he has committed sins, he will be forgiven. (James 5:13-14)

Healing is not just a momentary experience. It is also a journey and a process. When we seek healing from God, we are not just asking for the symptoms of an illness to be abated. That is only part of a much larger work of God.

As well, Divine Healing is not just about physical infirmities. Some of us need to experience emotional and spiritual healing. We may have been through a bitter divorce and never fully recovered from the shock of it. Or we might need to be healed from a lingering grief that hobbles our spiritual growth. Perhaps we have been wounded by betrayal or abuse. Whatever, the cause, we need to be healed.

In all of these cases, it is important to understand that when we are anointed with oil in a service of healing, it inaugurates the healing process. Healing is ongoing; it is life work.

So . . . the question comes back to each one of us. Is this where God is taking me? Do I need God's wholeness above all else? Is healing the "next step" for you? Is it a priority issue?

This Sunday, the sermon will be from Mark 10:46:52. It is the story of the healing of Bartimaeus. It might be helpful to ask yourself these questions:

1. What has led me to "cry out" to Jesus?

2. What do I want Jesus to do for me?

3. How will this enable me to be a whole person?

God bless!!!

- Bruce

Pastor Bruce's "8 Days of Prayer" Journal

Thu, 18 Feb 2010 13:49:29 -0500

Dear Friends,

As we enter into our Lenten discipline, I have encouraged you to look for that "One Thing" that you need to address in your relationship with God. This is not just something that I have dreamed up to keep you busy with God. It is important to have a good idea of what's next in our journey of faith.

While I was away on retreat, I tussled with this very same issue. And believe me, this wasn't an easy assignment. It took me quite a bit of time in prayer and meditation to get a sense of what God is calling me to do. As difficult as this was, it has also been very rewarding. It is perhaps one of the very best things I have ever done.

To give you encouragement, I offer you my journal that I kept on the retreat. It is not the journal of some sort of "Holy Man." You'll figure that out after a page or two. But it is the journal of a man to whom God has been very gracious. I hope it helps you on your own path. Click here to download or read my journal.

Faithfully,

Bruce

Lent & Holy Week Programming

Thu, 18 Feb 2010 13:46:12 -0500

Is there one thing that causes you to stumble...one desire, one habit, one fear?

What is the one thing that hinders...your full commitment to Jesus?

Is there one thing you need to grab hold of?

Lenten Meditation and Lunch Series

Meditation in Chapel and Lunch in Family Life Center

Each Wednesday, all are welcome to a 30 minute service of hymns and a message in the Chapel followed by a 30 minute light lunch in the Family Life Center. Come, pick up one spiritual practice that grows your faith:

Feb 24: Prayer and Quiet Time, JoAnn Linville

Mar 3: Bible Study, Sara Foshee

Mar 10: Evangelism, Tina Joel

Mar 17: Worship, Dale Tedder

Mar 24 Accountability and Mission, Jean Dart

Wednesday Nights: "Pressing On"

Wednesdays, March 3-March 24, 6 PM, Family Life Center

Join us at 5:15 PM for dinner and then stay to hear the stories of people who have laid down one thing and are pressing on toward the goal. Our speakers come from many walks of life and have encouraging messages to share. If you can't make dinner, just come for this special Lenten program that begins at 6 PM.

Mar 3: Joe Zelenka, player, Atlanta Falcons (former Jaguar)

Mar 10: Art Dalo, SUMC member

Mar 17: Tyler Williams, SUMC member

Mar 24: Staci Roundtree, Family Promise graduate

Holy Week Schedule

Mar 28- Apr 4: Stations of the Cross ~ Prophesies of the Passion of Christ

Mar 28: Palm Sunday Church-wide Picnic & Egg Hunt, 4 PM Point

Apr 1: Maundy Thursday Dinner & Tenebrae (Communion) Service, 6 PM

Apr 2: Good Friday Children's Experience, Garden & Chapel, 10:30 AM

Apr 3: 60th Annual Men's Easter Breakfast, 8 AM, Family Life Center

Easter Sunday Worship Schedule

7 AM Sunrise Service on the Point - CASUAL

9 AM Contemporary Worship Service

11 AM Traditional Worship Service

10 AM Sunday School (check with individual class schedules, as many classes are canceled for Easter Sunday)

Want to Host a Child from Afghanistan?

Fri, 05 Feb 2010 14:02:39 -0500

Southside United Methodist Church will be participating in the Solace for the Children Summer Hosting Program. You can host a child for 6 weeks. Click here for details and an application.

You are invited to "All About Love" ~ A Choral Concert 2/12

Tue, 02 Feb 2010 20:00:37 -0500

"It's All About Love" A Choral Concert to support the Mt. Moriah Adult Daycare Center will be held here at Southside UMC on Friday, February 12, 2010 in the Sanctuary at 7:00pm. We have several choirs joining us from some of our African American sister churches as well as our own Chancel Choir and the Southside Praise Band, F.A.I.T.H. Mt. Moriah Adult Daycare Center began 6 years ago at the Mt. Moriah United Methodist Church on St. Augustine Road as a result of the vision of their congregation of 50 and the help of many churches in the area (including Southside). Mt. Moriah UMC has long been a sister church in Missions with us here at Southside UMC. Let us all enjoy this wonderful concert about spiritual and romantic love while we support this worthy endeavor at the Daycare Center to help those in need of daily care. Ticket donations are $10.00 and can be obtained at the church office, at Wednesday night dinner, at the door on performance night, or by contacting Anne Davis at 614-4823. Make a special Valentines night of it!

Join our "Souper" Bowl Effort

Wed, 20 Jan 2010 11:24:46 -0500

On February 7th, Southside UMC Youth will participate in the Souper Bowl of Caring by collecting cans and money to donate to UCOM. Please join the effort!

More than 20 years ago, the Souper Bowl of Caring began with a simple prayer from a single youth group. "Lord as we enjoy the Super Bowl football ,game, help us to be mindful of those without even a bowl of soup to eat."

Since that day, more than $60 million has been raised for local charities across the country through the Souper Bowl of Caring. It has become a powerful movement that is transforming Super Bowl weekend into the nation's largest youth-led weekend of giving and serving.

Through this mission, youth people learn what its like to make a positive difference in the world—as they collect food, raise money and volunteer to work in charities that provide shelter to the homeless, food to the hungry and compassion to those in need.

Be a part of this movement by giving on Super Bowl Sunday. We are collecting cans and/or contributions for our area food bank, UCOM.

A Call to Compassionate Aid to the People of Haiti in Jesus' Name

Wed, 20 Jan 2010 11:22:01 -0500

Dear Colleagues in the ministry of Jesus Christ,

Ongoing news reports of the disastrous earthquake that ravished Haiti are readily available. People in the United States and around the world are gearing up to bring aid to the people of Haiti. I trust you will stay informed and will respond with the compassion of Jesus Christ.

I want to begin a North East district-wide sharing on specific ways we can respond in the name of Christ.

Let's start with:

Pray for our brothers and sisters of First Haitian Mission of Jacksonville. The Rev. Charles Hubbard, Director of New Church Development, and I have spoken with Pastor Raymond Clotaire, but communication into Haiti is difficult and he knows little about his family or the fate of the families connected to the mission congregation.
Pray for our Haitian sisters and brothers, colleagues in ministry and in congregations throughout the Florida Annual Conference, and for members of their families throughout Haiti. In our Florida connection we have 19 Haitian churches and missions, 25 Haitian clergy, and more than 3,100 Haitian members.
Respond through United Methodist channels of disaster response and relief; go to www.flumc.org and www.umcor.org for direction, updates, and quick links to UMCOR's online donation webpage for Haiti disaster relief. "Haiti Emergency" UMCOR Advance number is #418325.
Social network links You can create a link to the umc website through your social networking media to encourage people in your web of relationships to stay informed, to pray and to give. I just did this on my Facebook page.
Give! Other trusted avenues of immediate relief are good, such as the American Red Cross: www.redcross.org .
Money is the best thing we can contribute at this immediate time. [In the aftermath of Hurricane Andrew I remember an afternoon of shoveling, with a pitchfork, donated clothes out of a semi tractor trailer, piling them into a corner of a warehouse so that we could make room for pallets of water – what was needed in that moment]. We will stay in contact with Disaster Response folks in the Florida Conference office, and through UMCOR, to learn what is most needed in the moment.
Long Term ResponseAfter the immediate crisis is sufficiently addressed the people of Haiti will require a long-term faithful response, which may include money, labor and donations. If you or your church would like to be a part of a coordinated district wide dialogue in conjunction with UMCOR, FLUMC and our Haitian brothers and sisters in Christ, please let me know and we will keep you updated through emails about upcoming opportunities. We encourage you to be a part of this relational, coordinated effort so that aid to Haiti will be maximized.

Let our intercessions rise to the One on the throne!

Tim Smiley

The Reverend Timothy S. Smiley

North East District Superintendent

Florida Annual Conference

1415 LaSalle Street

Jacksonville, Florida 32207

904.396.3026

Help a Family Promise family move out by bringing in cleaning supplies...

Wed, 20 Jan 2010 08:49:11 -0500

Would you like to help a family gather household items as they transition out of Family Promise into their home?

SUMC is collecting the following cleaning supplies, so please help by picking up an extra item while at the grocery store and bringing it to the church office.

Cleaning Supplies:
Mop
Mop bucket
Broom
Dustpan
Clothes hamper
Cleaning rags
Dusting spray
Sponges
All purpose cleaner
Bathroom cleaner
Dish detergent
Dye/Scent free laundry detergent
Glass cleaner
Vacuum

Financial Address to Church

Tue, 19 Jan 2010 12:32:57 -0500

I am very pleased to report to you today on the financial results of our church for 2009.

Though it was a difficult economic year for our country and particularly for our state, we held our expenses in check and reported a $69,000 surplus in income over expenses for the year. We received $1,283,679 in income and spent $1,214,197.

We have paid all of our debts and obligations, paid our apportionments to the conference 100% and have this large cash cushion to take us into 2010.

God has been gracious to this church. For the first time , in 2009, our actual pledge income exceeded our pledged dollars. Typically , we collect about 94-95% of pledged income. In 2009, we collected 102.5% of pledged income. The Holy Spirit was working in the hearts of our church family to share their wealth where they could

We owe a great deal of thanks to our staff for watching their expenses so closely and yet putting together programs which have strengthened and enriched our church and church family.

I owe a great debt of gratitude to the Finance Committee for their steadfastness and faith in very uncertain economic times. Though we were in a $66,000 deficit at the end of October , the committee was confident that we would see improvement and they were proved correct.

We have converted to a new, and more comprehensive accounting and member database system this year which will provide us with new reporting capabilities and more accurate accounting than we have ever had before. Jennifer Dickson, our new part-time Financial Secretary , is doing a superb job in streamlining our reports and inputting accurate data and we believe she is the best and most competent Financial Secretary we have ever had. Many thanks are due to Bill Langley for his countless volunteer hours to help make this happen.

However, all is not good news. Our 2010 pledges have gone down in total dollars and number of pledging units for the first time in memory. Last year, we had pledges of $1.008Million. This year, our pledges amounted to $879K. This also represented a drop of 264 pledging units in 2009 to 201 in 2010. What does this mean for our church?

We believe that this means that many of our church family are still hurting from the recession. Either through lost jobs or reduced income, many families just don't know how they can meet all of their obligations. Please pray for those families, that God's grace will be upon them and carry them through these hard times. We know that when they are able, they will contribute again to the church's needs through Faith Income.

This does not mean, however, that we have to cut back. In fact, because we have saved our cash for the last 2 years, we have over $100k which we will be applying to the 2010 budget to make up for this shortfall. We will not need to use any of our Cash Reserve Fund, however, which was built up over the last 3 years to $110,000. Although the 2010 budget is not yet set in stone, it appears that we can comfortably project a budget which will represent a 3.8% increase over our expenses of 2009.

We will present this budget to the Church Conference in February. Pray for our church and our church family that 2010 will remove much of the strain of worrying about finances to doing what God intended for us to do in this world.

Finally, let me add some information which does not show up on our income statement. All during this year, Pastor Bruce and I have been privileged to be aware of countless donations to specific causes that our church family members have made. When the children or youth programs needed something, people came forth anonymously to provide the funding. When church members were hurting financially , many people brought cashiers checks to us with instructions to help those families with no recognition made to the donor. These acts of random kindness probably added up to close to $100,000. The Holy Spirit just moved these people to share their blessings. And for that, and their quietness in giving, we are moved and grateful.

As this year proceeds, Jo Ann Stephens will be taking over as Finance Chair. She has been a valuable and consistent contributor to the Finance Committee. We may face some tough times down the 2010 road but Jo Ann is a great leader to help us weather any storm or celebrate any sunshine.

If you have any questions, please contact me or Jo Ann and we will be happy to try and answer them. Let's have a great 2010 !!!

David Harrill

Co-Chair, Finance Committee

Take it to the Limit

Wed, 06 Jan 2010 10:24:37 -0500

Do you feel snowed under and maxed out? In our Take It to the Limit culture, many people spend, acquire, and try to squeeze as much out of life as they can---and end up feeling empty in the process. In this 6-session companion study guide to the Take It to the Limit DVD, Andy Stanley pulls you back from the edge and helps you strike a balance by showing you how to do less, not more.

Lesson 1 Introduction

Lesson 2 Less Is More

Lesson 3 Downtime

Lesson 4 Quality vs. Quantity

Lesson 5 Reordering Your Finances

Lesson 6 A Time to Run

Lesson 7 Finding Professional Margin

Time: Wednesday, 6:00 PM

Where: Family Life Center

Contact: Dale Tedder, 396-2676, Ext. 116 or d.tedder@southsidemethodist.org.

New Baxter Boys Study: Being God's Man... in the Search for Success

Wed, 06 Jan 2010 10:23:26 -0500

"I've worked hard to get where I am. I've overcome obstacles. I've earned it." No one had a greater right to such statements then King David. He rose from the fields of Palestine to the palace of power and privilege. He'd made it. But now that he was on top, would he continue to grow spiritually in the midst of his success?

Self-Sufficiency is a temptation every man faces. But we can't be both self-sufficient and on the move spiritually at the same time. Just as in David's life, God often allows us to experience the consequences of self-sufficiency so that we can rediscover our need for His leadership and power in our lives. In the end, the crushing blows we face serve to humble us... and forge the basis for the next wave of spiritual momentum in our lives.

Being God's Man...in the Search for Success will help you come to grips with the attitudes and actions you must own as you move forward to achieve God's goals for you.

January 11 & 13 – Lesson 1, Where Success Starts

January 18 & 20 – Lesson 2, The Success Test: Defeating Pride

January 25 & 27 – Lesson 3, Being Flexible When God Says No

February 1 & 3 – Lesson 4, A Heart for People in the Midst of Our Success

February 8 & 10 – Lesson 5, Too Proud to See It Coming

February 15 & 17 – Lesson 6, Confronting Personal Sin

February 22 & 24 – Lesson 7, Recovering from the Fallout of Sin

March 1 & 3 – Lesson 8, Finishing Well

March 8 & 10 – Fellowship Day

Come and join us...

Tue, 05 Jan 2010 09:33:37 -0500

...in the New Community Sunday school class as we begin a brand new study for a brand new year.

We'll be studying "The Sermon on the Mount," which is perhaps, as one person put it: "the most loved, best known, and least understood part of the Bible."

We'll begin this week by passing out study guides and introducing what the Sermon on the Mount is about as well as our study plan.

We meet in the Inwood House, behind the Family Life Center parking lot on the San Jose side of the church campus.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me at D.Tedder@southsidemethodist.org or call me at 396-2676.

Blessings
Dale

Sermon on the Mount

Thu, 17 Dec 2009 10:14:19 -0500

The New Community Sunday School class will begin a new study on "The Sermon on the Mount," beginning Sunday, January 10. Anyone who would like to join us at 10:10am, on Sunday mornings (at the Inwood House) is cordially invited. We'd love to have you!

If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to call me at 396-2676 or via email at D.Tedder@southsidemethodist.org.

Blessings,

Pastor Dale

Children's Ministries 2009-2010 Winter Schedule

Mon, 07 Dec 2009 12:00:20 -0500

Wednesday, December 9^th

3:00pm Girls' Worship Dance Rehearsal

4:00pm Cherub & Wesley Choirs Rehearse for Christmas Eve Service

5:00pm Family Dinner

5:30pm Littlest Angels dismissed

5:45pm Cherub and Wesley Choirs dismissed

6:00pm Children's Choirs Sing

6:15pm Santa Party & Christmas Craft Fun

Saturday, December 12^th

7am-11am Humble Harvest Drop Off

Clean those closets and toy boxes and have your

parent bring you to help "plant the field!"

Sunday, December 13^th

All Music Sunday in 9am & 11am Services!

11:00am Girls' Worship Dance Rehearsal

Wednesday, December 16^th

3:30pm Girls' Worship Dance Rehearsal

5:00pm Cherub & Wesley Choirs Rehearse for Christmas Eve Service

5:45pm Littlest Angels Choir Rehearsal

6:30pm Pick-up for All Children's Choirs

Sunday, December 20^th

10:00am Happy Birthday Jesus Party in the FLC featuring the 3^rd Grade Nativity Pageant.

All Children's Sunday School Classes attend. SUMC Church Family invited for fun & cake!

11:00am Worship Dance Rehearsal

Monday, December 21^st

9:00am – 1:00pm Children's Pajama Party (1^st-5^th Grade) & PlayDay for Nursery

Kindergartners. Proceeds to support the 2010 Solace for the Children Summer Program

Sign-up online for this fun day of games, crafts, movie & more!

Wednesday, December 23rd

3:30pm-5:00pm Worship Dance Rehearsal

5:00pm-6:00pm Littlest Angels Choir Practice

5:00pm-6:30pm Cherub & Wesley Choir Rehearsal

Thursday, December 24^th

4:00pm All Children Participating in the Service Arrive

4:30pm Christmas Eve Family Service

5:30pm Live Nativity

6:30pm Christmas Eve Candlelight Service

Sunday, December 27^th

10:30am Unity Service

Monday, December 28^th

Time TBA Children's Field Trip (K – 5^th Graders) & Preschoolers Playday

Wednesday, January 6^th

Family Night Dinner , Choir & Kid's Academy begins Winter Session

Friday, January 15 – Sunday, January 17^th

FAMILY RETREAT at Advent Christian Village

Space is limited. Online Sign-up begins on Mon., Dec. 7^th.

Friday, February 5-6

Women's Mini Faith Lift: Sign-up online now!

Wednesday, February 17^th

6:00pm Family Ash Wednesday Service in the FLC

Advent Devotional 2009 ~ Introduction

Sat, 28 Nov 2009 16:46:15 -0500

Memory is a way of holding onto the things you love,

the things you are, the things you never want to lose.

~From the television show The Wonder Years

Dear Church Family,

The Advent Season is upon us and we will all gather together in a few short weeks to celebrate the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ. The church is a very busy place during Advent as we prepare to greet Him. I particularly enjoy the Christmas Eve Services when families are all together listening to the story of Christ's birth. The young, old and all in between reunite to sing familiar hymns and hear His word. This is a tradition that has taken place at Southside Untied Methodist Church for many years.

This year the Advent Worship Team asked our patriarchs and matriarchs to search their memory banks for reflections of our church and their lives in days gone by. As I read their reflections, I realized that while much has changed, much more is the same. We are still a church that cares deeply about our faith, our church and our families. We make sure that our children are involved in activities and as members we take our commitment to our church very seriously.

Please enjoy their memories and make sure that this Christmas Season you are making some memories of your own here at Southside United Methodist Church.

Tracy Langley

Advent Reflection Chair

November 29 Chauncey Lever

November 30 Bob Dart

December 1 Kayo Foshee

December 2 Helen Godwin

December 3 Jodie Jarrell

December 4 Barry Henry

December 5 Libby Lee

December 6 Jean & Bob Dart

December 7 Sara Lever

December 8 Leila Doney

December 9 Mary Alice Massey

December 10 Sallye Bayer

December 11 Jon Carlson

December 12 Suzanne Tedder

December 13 Chris & Dave Harrill

December 14 Anne & Tom Davis

December 15 Marion Lyon

December 16 Barbara Wilcox

December 17 B.J. Langley

December 18 Violet Skinner

December 19 Sissy Moore

December 20 Lana Rinaman

December 21 Kathy Bozard Barker

December 22 Hayes Tate

December 23 O.S. Garces

December 24 Naomi Fawbush

December 25 Monroe Hatch (posthumously)

When did it all happen?

A Timeline of Church Facilities

Kim Rinaman

Church Facility development at Southside has consistently followed congregational members' need for sharing worship, faith, witness, program, and a community of love and commitment.

1940 - Purchase of land for New Church

1950 - Occupied our First Unit Multi-Purpose Facility

1952 - Additional land purchased at the point

1955 - Development of the Main Sanctuary and Langley Chapel

1960 - Development of the Classroom and Administrative Building with Basement

1974 - Dedication of Total Church Property with final payment of Mortgage

commitments for prior developments

1990 - Trustee commitment to purchase additional land as it came available

1994 - Closing of Felch Avenue and development of the

Davis Family Life Center

2001 - Master Plan for current property

2004 - Design Development for a future Classroom/Administrative building and

Sanctuary improvements

2004 - Existing facility renovations and improvements in all buildings

2005 - Update of Master Plan for church property

2006 - Improvements to Sanctuary

2009 - Renovation of storm damaged Youth Basement

One Memory - The process of closing Felch Avenue, and the design and construction of the Davis Family Life Center is remarkable.

The comprehensive involvement of the Congregation, Trustees, Church Staff, Pastors, Neighbors, and Local Community as well as The City Council, Building and Zoning Department and City Engineers brought success.

The Church accomplished this complicated development in a beautifully patient, faithful and considerate manner. The joyful way the facility has been used for many activities and program needs over the past 15 years, witnesses to the true meaning of a church family.

Click here to sign up for the daily e-devotional.

Booklets are available in the church office.

A downloadable version will be available online on Monday, Nov. 30th.

Looks like a great movie for the Christmas season...

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 12:30:18 -0500

Here's a movie that shows the Christian faith with hands and feet - what John Wesley called, "Social Holiness." Here's the link to a great review of it... http://www.worldmag.com/articles/16071

Enjoy,

Pastor Dale

Humble Harvest Saturday - Share Your Abundance!

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 14:48:17 -0500

Saturday, December 12, Noon, the Point

The Scripture Sisters invite you to bring the following items to the Humble Harvest. Please bring items to the Point between 7 AM-11:00 AM on Dec. 12th. If you have questions about items or cannot deliver them at the drop-off time, please contact the appropriate Gatekeeper.

Gate 1: BIBLES. Contact: Lori Ibach baabaababies@aol.com.

Gate 2: BABY NEEDS: bottles, diapers, formula, wipes. Contacts: Lori Sneller & Barbara Rogers lsneller@live.com, barbararogers@yahoo.com.

Gate 3: FOOD: Non-perishables, cans and boxes. Caroline Stake & Ana O'Dell, carolinestake@yahoo.com, aodell@pensersc.com

Gate 4: MENS' CLOTHING: jackets, sweaters, turtlenecks, sweatshirts, gloves, socks, blankets, scarves. Contacts: Susan Harbin & Candace & Jon Singleton susan.harbin@irs.gov and family@singleton-group.com.

Gate 5: WOMENS' CLOTHING: jackets, sweaters, scarves, turtlenecks, gloves, new socks and stockings only, winter dresses, sweatshirts and blankets. Contacts: Amy Barnett and Lana Rinaman, amy@umbrellasyoushare.org and WKRinaman@comcast.net.

Gate 6: CHILDRENS' CLOTHING: jackets, sweaters, scarves, turtlenecks, gloves, new socks, blankets. Contacts: Sarah Parent and Heather Johnson, brianandsarah@comcast.net and bhjohnson@yahoo.com.

Gate 7: HOUSEHOLD/BATH & BODY: soap, shampoo, powder, body products Linda Abercrombie and Deborah Dodd, ljea3uf@bellsouth.net and deborahdodd@comcast.net.

Gate 8: HOUSEHOLD/KITCHEN: paper towels, napkins, cleaning products. Contcts: Cecile & Robert Rider /Becky & Bill Woodward cecile@fmdc.cc and billwoodward@bellsouth.net.

Gate 9: HOUSEHOLD/BATHROOM: toothpaste & toothbrushes, new combs & brushes, toilet paper. Amy Franks and SUMC Youth fran3325@bellsouth.net.

Gate 10: BOOKS AND GAMES: new and gently used. Contacts: BJ Ibach bibach@rtlaw.com

Gate 11: TOYS & STUFFED ANIMALS: new & gently. Contacts: Amelia Day and Tricia Murphy, ameliad@comcast.net and murppc@hotmail.com.

Gate 12: HOME DECOR, APPLIANCES, FURNITURE. Contact: Tina Joel rjoeltjoel@aol.com

Join the Youth, Preschool, Asbury Class in collecting items for FL UM Children's Home

Tue, 03 Nov 2009 12:03:16 -0500

Who stays at FUMCH?

Children come because of sexual abuse, other physical abuse, abandonment or because of family breakdown due to divorce, drug abuse, illness or death of a parent. There may be neglect, or conflicts that have made impossible a normal family life.

You Can Help by Donating These Items:

Shampoo & Conditioner • Lotion

Toothbrush & Toothpaste (Crest or Colgate)

Towels • Deodorant • Twin Comforters

(Adult) Low-Cut Sport Socks

Scrapbooking Supplies

Bicycles (single speed preferred)

Disposable Cameras • Pajamas (size: 18 months)

Funds for Daily Journals for Foster Parents

Deliver items to Southside United Methodist Church or Preschool by Fri, Dec 4th.

As we thank God for His blessings of our family and abundance this Thanksgiving and Christmas season, let's remember the children at FUMCH.

Coming Soon...Top Chef at Southside!!!

Tue, 27 Oct 2009 11:20:55 -0400

Wanted:

8 chefs to compete in our 1st Top Chef Dessert Competition. If more than 8 people apply, we will pull the names out of a chef’s hat for the 8 competitors.

Requirements:

Enjoyment of cooking…..for a crowd!

Being present at all competition nights: Jan. 6, Jan. 13, Feb. 24 and The Finals: March 24 (2010).

Desserts must be in the kitchen by 3 PM on the day of the competition.

Disclaimer: This is all in FUN!!!! (No professional skills or experience needed.)

Competition Rules:

Final rules for each competition will be given to you on January 6 for the January 13 competition.

Our own “Padma” will host the panel of judges and conduct the competition.

Our church family will sample the entries and lobby for their favorites.

Competition Schedule (during Wednesday Night Dinners):

Wednesday, January 6th - Introduction of competitors

Wednesday, January 13th - First round of competition

Wednesday, February 24th - 2nd Round of competition

Wednesday, March 24th - Finals ~ Southside Top Chef selected

Entry:

If you are interested in being a Southside Top Chef, call Chris Harrill at 396-2676, ext. 120 or email her at : c.harrill@southsidemethodist.org by December 16. Join us for the Fun!

Mail or Bring your Stewardship Pledge Key to the Church Office

Wed, 28 Oct 2009 09:53:11 -0400

(If you did not receive a pledge key in the mail, please call or stop by the church office.)

As your Stewardship Committee formed and began to meet through 2009, we prayed for God’s direction in leading our congregation in Stewardship. Our 2009 Pledging results showed a faithful response even in a difficult economic climate. We have been blessed by your faithful commitment to Southside. What does God have in store for us this coming year?

Recently, we introduced the book “The Treasure Principle: Unlocking the Secret of Joyful Giving.” By these disciplined efforts and God’s gentle urging, we have presented to our Church Family “The Treasure Principle”, as the theme of our Stewardship Campaign.

We invite you to join your Church Family by placing the Pledge Key that you received in the mail into the Treasure Chest at the Altar at the Sunday Worship Service on November 8th. (Or, if you are unable to be present that Sunday, please bring or mail your Pledge Key to the church office.) Together, we believe that God will bless and direct our ministry by your joyful tithing.

God bless you!

Sign up by Dec 1st for the Mission Trip to Guatemala. Read more...

Wed, 28 Oct 2009 09:50:07 -0400

Mission Trip to Guatemala

The plans are being solidified now for this incredible opportunity we have to serve in Guatemala!
If you are interested in this trip but were unable to attend the informational meeting held last week, then please contact Amy a.franks@southsidemethodist.org right away as there is limited space! Trip information packets and applications are available at the church front office.
All applications and a $100 deposit are due on Tuesday, December 1st at the front office. Sorry, no exceptions...
This trip is open to any student connected to SUMC currently in high-school and any adult connected to SUMC who has a heart for missions!

When: July 31st-August 8th
Cost: $650 + airfare
Where will we serve: Chisec, Guatemala
What else? Mandatory monthly meetings on the 3rd Sunday of the month
You can read more by picking up a trip packet or scheduling a meeting with Amy before December 1st!

Don't miss out on this life-changing trip that you have an opportunity to be a part of with your church family!

All Saints Day - Nov 1st

Tue, 27 Oct 2009 11:55:46 -0400

All Saints Day All Saints, all Souls, all Hallows, all Holies…are the alternative observances for ancient holidays...redeemed by people of faith...from darkness into light...old festivals of fear transformed into celebrations of joy. This is the beautiful part...the scriptures tell us that those who live and believe in God are designated as his “saints”. Their lives are precious to God while they are on earth and precious to him when they pass into his eternal presence.

O you who love the Lord...He preserves the lives of his saints (Psalm 97:10a)

Precious in the eyes of the Lord is the death of his saints. (Psalm 116:15)

In the United Methodist Church, All Saint's Day is observed on the first Sunday of November. It is a formal remembrance of all those who have passed away from the local church congregation in the past year. A candle is lit as each person's name is called, a memorial chime is sounded, and a liturgical prayer is offered for our heavenly reunion when Christ returns. We want to remember with joy the bond of love we share with:

Mrs. Eileen Mattox	12/30/2008
Mr. George T. Miller	4/9/2009
Mrs. Inez Echerd	4/16/2009
Mrs. Bette-Lea Shafer	6/15/2009
Mr. Paul Caudill	7/5/2009
Mrs. Jacqueline Daze	7/15/2009
Mrs. Kathleen Johnson	7/27/2009
Mr. Richard Monk	7/27/2009

Prayer Meeting -- Sunday, November 1, 5 PM, Langley Chapel.

Thu, 08 Oct 2009 13:33:22 -0400

The focus of the prayer meeting is quite specific: we are asking God to lead us into outreach and mission ministries. We want to bring our congregation into a deeper relationship with the community. But before we have a planning meeting, or a brain storming session, or a strategy session . . . we thought it would be best to pray about it. If you are unable to come, please pray with us and for us. If you have any input, please contact Pastor Bruce at b.jones@southsidemethodist.org or Tina Joel.

Sermon Manuscript from 10/11: Knowing God: The Key to Worship

Tue, 13 Oct 2009 08:19:44 -0400

John 17:3

Preached on October 11, 2009 by Dale Tedder

Last week Pastor Bruce began a new sermon series on WORSHIP. He touched on the question: Why Worship? He'll be developing that over the weeks to come, so I don't want to steal his thunder. Instead, this week, what I want to address is what I'm calling our "the key to worship."

Besides being told by God that it's our DUTY to worship him, I want to focus on what I hope will create deeply within us, an overwhelming DESIRE to worship God.

I'm borrowing this idea from John Piper who used a similar illustration to make his point...

Suppose that on Suzanne's and my anniversary, Suzanne gets a knock on our front door. When she opens the door, she finds me standing there with flowers. She then hears me say the following: "It's our anniversary. Our cultural custom dictates that I'm supposed to do something nice for you like giving you flowers. So here you go." That wouldn't exactly sweep her off of her feet, would it?

But suppose she gets a knock on the door and she opens it and finds me grinning from ear to ear. And before she's even able to ask me why I'm knocking on the door, she hears me say this: Suzanne, I've been waiting for this day all year. I'm so blessed that you're my wife and I've been spending all day just thanking God for bringing you into my life. And I know that these flowers pale in comparison to your beauty, but I wanted to express my ever growing love for you by giving them to you on this very special day.

Now, I ask you: Which of the two versions of getting flowers do you think she would want most to receive from me? In both instances, she gets me and gets the flowers. But there's a fundamental difference between those two versions, isn't there?

Hopefully the point is clear: God doesn't want us to worship him only because we have to, or because we live in the South and we're supposed to worship God on Sundays. Or because our parents and grandparents did. Or because we're trying to make social contacts.

He wants hearts that deeply desire to express that worship... and not merely doing it out of duty or obligation.

So here's the key to worship that I was telling you about. Ready?

Þ The better we know God...

Þ The more we will love him.

Þ And the more we love him, the more we will want to express that love in worship.

You've probably heard the expression, "to know him is to love him." Well, that's especially true with God. The better we know God, the more we will love him and want to know him. And I believe that knowing God and loving him will bear the fruit of worship that pleases God.

Well, let's look at our text, John 17:3 –

"Now this is eternal life: that they may know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent."

These words are spoken by our Lord Jesus Christ at the very beginning of what's called his "High Priestly Prayer." In this prayer Jesus prays for himself, his twelve disciples who were with him then and there, and for all believers who would follow. What this means is that in this prayer, he's actually praying for you and me. I encourage you to read all of John 17 and meditate on its deep truths.

In verse 3, Jesus tells us what's perhaps the most important information we can ever hear. He tells us what salvation is and how we can have it. But he doesn't use the biblical jargon that we usually hear when we think about salvation – like being saved, born again, justified, or redeemed.

He first tells us what eternal life is: He says that eternal life is: KNOWING GOD. Look at verse 3 again...

"Now this is eternal life: that they may know you"

So what does it mean to KNOW GOD? Well, let me first tell you what it means by telling you what it doesn't mean.

It doesn't mean simply intellectually acknowledging that God exists. Every now and then I've had someone tell me that they believe in God. And to this date I have never ever responded the way I'm sometimes tempted to. (And I thank the Holy Spirit for that because I would not win any friends by saying it.)

But what I'm sometimes tempted to say when someone says they believe in God is this: "Well, that's fantastic. According to Scripture, that qualifies you to be a... DEMON." Now you know why I've never said that to someone. But listen to what James 2:19 says...

"You believe that there is one God. Good! Even the demons believe that--and shudder."

But you know, even though that verse is true, it just doesn't seem very pastoral or loving to call someone a demon. Or maybe that's just me.

My point, of course, is that KNOWING GOD involves more than mere intellectual affirmation. But let me add very quickly and strongly that believing that God exists is huge. It's very important. You obviously can't KNOW GOD if you don't believe he exists.

Hebrews 11:6 says...

"And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists... "

But let me say again, if all I knew about someone is a few biographical tidbits, I wouldn't KNOW them the way Jesus is talking about here.

When I was in seminary I fell prey to an occupational hazard that can sometimes occur in the life of a seminary student... or even a pastor... if they're not careful. Because I was spending so much time studying "about" God, I began to think of God in terms of an object to be studied as opposed to a Person to be loved and worshiped. Now, that doesn't have to happen to anyone. The very thing I was doing – learning about God – could have been the very thing that drew me closer to him and caused me to be more and more in awe of him. And yet, for me, and many who have attended seminary, I began to drift away a bit, my prayer life was lack luster, devotional reading of Scripture suffered.

Thankfully, Ken Boa gave me a copy of A.W. Tozer's, "Knowledge of the Holy," which God used to draw me closer to himself. Tozer's chapters are deep and rich and at the same time devotional and encouraging (much like the writing of the Puritans). God used the book to convict and encourage me and draw me back into deeper and more meaningful fellowship than I had ever had before. I highly recommend the book. I've given away many copies of it ever since then.

Well, if KNOWING GOD doesn't mean mere awareness of his existence or only believing a few things about him, WHAT DOES IT MEAN?

What KNOWING GOD does mean is this: (By the way, this is the Dale Tedder definition of what knowing God means based on my study of Scripture as well as wiser theological guides than I.)

To know God means to...

Have a deep, experiential, intimate, and personal relationship with God that is marked by a passionate and continual desire to know him better, love him more, follow him more closely, and become more and more like him.

You see, God has existed eternally in perfect relationship with himself – within the three Persons of the Trinity. Therefore, we were created to be in relationships – primarily with God, but also with others. And so, to KNOW GOD, as Jesus is talking about in our text this morning... is to know about him, but also to have this ever growing, deep, experiential, intimate, and personal relationship with him.

The Bible, especially the Psalms, describes this in different ways. Now, I don't usually do this, but I want to read quite a few of these verses for you. I think it's really important for you to hear and see that is not some peripheral idea, but at the very heart of our faith. Just listen to the language that's used. All these different words and phrases describe what Jesus is talking about in our text. You can even meditate upon these verses as I read them...

Psalm 42:1-2

As the deer pants for streams of water,

so my soul pants for you, O God.

[2] My soul thirsts for God, for the living God.

When can I go and meet with God?

Psalm 37:4

Delight yourself in the Lord

and he will give you the desires of your heart.

Psalm 73:25

Whom have I in heaven but you?

And earth has nothing I desire besides you.

Psalm 9:10

Those who know your name will trust in you,

for you, Lord, have never forsaken those who seek you.

Psalm 27:4

One thing I ask of the Lord,

this is what I seek:

that I may dwell in the house of the Lord

all the days of my life,

to gaze upon the beauty of the Lord

and to seek him in his temple.

Psalm 27:8

My heart says of you, "Seek his face!"

Your face, Lord, I will seek.

Psalm 63:1

O God, you are my God,

earnestly I seek you;

my soul thirsts for you,

my body longs for you,

in a dry and weary land

where there is no water.

Psalm 143:6

I spread out my hands to you;

my soul thirsts for you like a parched land.

Matthew 5:6

Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness,

for they will be filled.

And I haven't even listed the verses that mention PRAISING God, or ADORING God, or WORSHIPING God. But did you hear the words I did read. To KNOW GOD is to...

Þ Long for God

Þ Desire God

Þ Seek God

Þ Hunger for God

Þ Thirst for God

And so my question for you is this: Do you long for God? Do you desire him? Do you seek him? Do you hunger and thirst for him? You know, what's so glorious about this grand pursuit is that Jesus tells us on the one hand... that when we KNOW GOD, we'll never thirst or hunger again. And yet, on the other hand, really KNOWING GOD... and growing in love with him causes us to want to KNOW HIM EVEN MORE. Therefore, KNOWING GOD will be an eternal pursuit that brings with it more and more joy. That's why Jesus can say that KNOWING GOD is eternal life. And by eternal life, he also means REAL life, ABUNDANT life, and ideas like that. It's finding our ultimate purpose in life and living it.

And as I said, what's so wonderful about all of this is that God wants us to KNOW him.

Jeremiah 9:23-24

This is what the Lord says:

"Let not the wise man boast of his wisdom

or the strong man boast of his strength

or the rich man boast of his riches,

[24] but let him who boasts boast about this:

that he understands and knows me...

And not only does God want us to KNOW him, but he has, as I said, promised to satisfy our desire once we come to KNOW HIM.

Psalm 107:9

for he satisfies the thirsty

and fills the hungry with good things.

Matthew 5:6

Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness,

for they will be filled.

Beloved THAT is good news.

And, of course, KNOWING GOD means that we know him as he's revealed himself in and through his Word, and most especially in the Person and Work of Jesus Christ.

Look at John 17:3 again,

"Now this is eternal life: that they may know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent."

The Apostle Paul talks about his passion for knowing God through the Lord Jesus Christ in Philippians 3. Listen to these words...

Philippians 3:8 - What is more, I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them rubbish, that I may gain Christ

Philippians 3:10 - I want to know Christ and the power of his resurrection and the fellowship of sharing in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death,

Beloved, do you know – really KNOW – God the Father and his Son Jesus Christ? Is your life marked by a desire to KNOW him better? And as John Wesley might say, are you increasing in your love for him? That's a picture of the heart that pleases God. And that's the kind of person whose worship is a pleasing aroma to God.

I want to close this morning with this prayer from A.W. Tozer's book, Knowledge of the Holy. I really do pray that it would be the prayer for every single one of us at Southside. As God answers this prayer in our life, may we respond by loving him even more and expressing that love in a life of devoted worship of our great God and King.

Let's pray... and let's really tune in to the words I'll be reading. Make them your own...

"O God, I have tasted Thy goodness, and it has both satisfied me and made me thirst for more. I am painfully conscious of my need for further grace. I am ashamed of my lack of desire. O God, the Triune God, I want to want Thee; I long to be filled with longing; I thirst to be made thirsty still." Amen and Amen.

Fall Festival 10/25-- please join us!

Wed, 07 Oct 2009 15:02:46 -0400

Sunday, October 25th from 4pm-7pm
Family fun, carnival games, rides, prizes, ponies, barrell train, giant slide and more!

How can you help SUMC host this event?

Invite your neighbors and friends. This is a great opportunity to introduce them to our church family.

Interested in sponsoring a game, ride or concession? Please contact Jennifer Sheffield at 396-3111.

Want to volunteer for a 30min or 1-hour shift? Contact Michelle Wright at 399-2005.

Questions? Contact Angie Cosper at a.cosper@southsidemethodist.org or 396-2676 x123.

Pumpkin Patch: News & Events! Patch hours, gift cards, volunteer opps, delivery day, and more...

Tue, 15 Sep 2009 12:51:43 -0400

Patch Hours

Monday-Friday: Noon - 8 PM

Saturday: 10 AM - 8 PM

Sunday: Closed

Pumpkin Delivery: Saturday, Oct. 3, 9 AM.

Come help unload pumpkins. Volunteers of all sizes and ages welcome, from 2 to 82!

Volunteer in the Patch

Sign-ups for pumpkin patch shifts ON-LINE! Contact Cecile Rider for sign-up link at cecile@fmdc.cc. Please be sure to sign up for a maximum of 4 slots so we can offer everyone an opportunity that wants one. Questions after on-line registration opens can be directed to:

Cecile Rider (patch shifts) Cecile@fmdc.cc or 398-7869.

Joy Gannam (preschool storytime) 367-4229 - Sign ups for story time are separate and you must contact Joy to sign up.

Pumpkin Patch Special Offers!

The patch offers 2 ways to support the youth in addition to our pumpkin sales this year:

Gift Cards: You can purchase on-line the new-gift card for $10 good towards any patch purchase. Gift cards can be delivered directly to you or the receiver.

Harvest of Recipes Cookbook: In addition you can purchase a cookbook chock full of pumpkin recipes. Both make great fall gifts for your friends and neighbors. Cookbooks can also be purchased in the patch or on Wednesday nights in the FLC.

Beginners Pilates Class at SUMC

Tue, 15 Sep 2009 09:39:44 -0400

6:30 PM Thursdays, Basement

Schedule: Sept 24th Welcome and Q&A. 10 week Pilates Class begins Oct 1st.

Join this 10-week beginners Pilates course that will incorporate spiritual and physical disciplines of strength and balance. For details and sign-up, contact Jeanette Yates at jeanetteyates@aol.com or 635-7553.

Join us at Music of Hope Concert benefitting Family Promise of Jacksonville

Tue, 08 Sep 2009 21:27:46 -0400

On September 25 at 8:00 P.M. Southside United Methodist Church will be hosting a concert in the sanctuary. The "I'll Take Romance," will be hosted by Ken Amaro and benefit Family Promise of Jacksonville.

Family Promise of Jacksonville is a non-profit, interfaith hospitality network of volunteers providing temporary shelter, meals, hospitality, and case management for Jacksonville families experiencing homelessness. In 2008, over 18,000 people were homeless in Jacksonville; of that 1 in 5 was a child or an adult in a family. FPJ directly addresses that need with a skilled volunteer network and professional case management that provides housing, counseling, financial guidance, heath services, transportation, mentoring, and meals.

Please join us for an evening of music, love, and support for those in need in our community.

Tickets are $20.00 per person or $50.00 per family. Sponsorship opportunities are also available and appreciated. For ticket purchases or general information, please contact Jennifer Harbin at either jennifer@beem.com or (904) 316-7233.

Jesus Among Other Gods: Don't All Religions Lead to God?

Sun, 09 Aug 2009 08:17:55 -0400

New Men’s Ministry Study for Fall-Winter 2009/2010

Over the last eight years of our men’s ministry at Southside we have studied deeply from God’s Word. We have tackled books such as Romans, Nehemiah, and the Gospel of John, just to name a few. Great doctrines such as God’s holiness, God’s covenantal faithfulness, and those truths we find in the Apostles’ Creed have also been carefully considered. Additionally, we have reflected on what it means to be godly men who face temptation daily and who wrestle with issues of contentment. We have also learned what it means to be faithful followers of Jesus Christ in our roles as husbands, fathers, leaders, and employees or employers. As you can see, we have covered a great deal of ground.

I believe that much of what we have studied during the last eight years has prepared us for this year’s new study. Martin Luther has a wonderful quote that accurately introduces this year’s focus. Luther wrote…

“If I profess with the loudest voice and clearest exposition every portion of the truth of God except precisely that little point which the world and the devil are at that moment attacking, I am not confessing Christ, however boldly I may be professing Christ. Where the battle rages, there the loyalty of the soldier is proved and to be steady on all the battlefield besides is mere flight and disgrace if he flinches at that one point.”

This year we will add to our understanding of what it means to be a follower of Christ by looking at what it means to be a DEFENDER of our faith.

Luther said that a soldier proves his loyalty where the battle rages. In our day and in our culture the battle lines have been drawn around the unique Person and Work of Jesus Christ. The early Christians learned the hard way what the cost was of saying that God had uniquely revealed himself in and through the Person of Jesus Christ. They suffered greatly for declaring the truth of the Christian faith to the world.

Our day is no different than theirs. If you don’t believe me, just try telling people at your next party or family reunion that you believe Jesus is God’s only begotten Son, that he is the only way of salvation, etc. No doubt you will be indelibly marked with descriptions, such as, “closed-minded,” “intolerant,” or “fundamentalist.”

And yet we still have a wonderful message of truth and good news to declare to a world in desperate need of hearing and receiving it. Sadly, however, regardless of how winsomely it is delivered, our message is not always welcomed. Sometimes, it is even ridiculed, rejected, or denied. And when that’s the case, what do you do?

Do you know how to give an answer to someone who rejects or denies your good news about Jesus? Do you know how to respond to a person who tells you that Jesus is just one of many ways to God and that it doesn’t matter what you believe so long as you’re sincere? Would you be able to make a case to someone regarding why you believe Jesus was and is God Incarnate, why he died on the Cross, and that he rose from the dead on the third day?

Our new study will deal with these and other issues. Each week we will be educated, equipped, and encouraged to make a case for our faith in Christ.

I have discovered two awesome study guides that will direct our study through God’s Word and will help guide our conversations in ways that will aid us as we think through the major issues and implications of each week’s topic. I have also assembled some of today’s best and brightest Christian thinkers and communicators to teach us how to think, speak, and act Christianly about the issues we’ll be focusing upon. (see the schedule below)

If you have any questions about this new study, please do not hesitate to contact me at D.Tedder@southsidemethodist.org or 396-2676. You are cordially invited to come and be a part of our fellowship as well as this great new study.

Stand Firm,
Dale

Wednesday Night Spiritual Academy & Small Group Sign-Ups

Tue, 01 Sep 2009 21:16:27 -0400

Please click here for sign-ups and a listing of Spiritual Academy Class and Wednesday Night Women's Small Groups.

New Women's Bible Studies - Read the Details

Tue, 01 Sep 2009 21:14:01 -0400

We presently have three women's Bible studies. If you would like to join other women for fellowship and to dig into God's Word together, you are welcome and encouraged to join in.

Monday Study

Study Description: Adventeurous Prayer (click the title for study details and schedule)

Time & Location: Mondays at 9:30 a.m in GRACE Place, Rm 200, 2nd Floor Education Building. Nursery is provided but on a limited basis by reservations only.

Contact: Erin Watson at fsuwatson@comcast.net.

Study Sisters

Study Description: Can We Talk? Soul-Stirring Conversations with God

Time & Location: Wednesday, 6:00 p.m. (after dinner), Discovery Classroom

Contact: Karen Feltman at kcfeltman@bellsouth.net.

Wednesday Evening Study

Study Description: Idols of the Heart: Learning to Long for God Alone

Time & Location: Wednesday, 7:30 p.m., Langley Chapel Parlor

Contact: Suzanne Tedder at sft31@comcast.net.

Scripture Sisters

Study Description: online weekly scripture readings and prayer groups

Time & Location:

Contact: Lori Ibach at baabaababies@aol.com to sign up.

Welcome Back to Our Church Family Wednesday Night Dinners - 8/26!

Mon, 20 Jul 2009 08:24:26 -0400

Join us for fellowship, food, and programs on Wednesday night! First time visitors eat free.

From the Kitchen

Recipes from our church family members will be featured throughout the Fall. Some of these recipes appear in the youth cookbook "A Harvest of Recipes." We thank all Sunday School Classes in advance for helping us serve.

A few reminders to help in serving you:

Self serve peanut butter and jelly sandwich station is in the Family Life Center. Children are welcome to the side items on the regular children's menu.
If you would like a "dinner plate" size salad as your main meal - ask our servers.
A few servings of plain chicken are prepared every week to accommodate those with dietary needs---again, ask our servers if you prefer this.
If your child has not received the "special dessert", please speak to Chris or Joe and we will try to present them with one this year.
The cost remains the same this year: $6.00 for adults, $4.00 for children, and $16 maximum per family.

Evening Schedule

5:15 PM Dinner Service Begins

5:45 PM Children's Activities

6:00 PM Adult Spiritual Academy & Youth Small Groups

Calendar

August 26th - Welcome Back & Bingo!

September 2nd - Church Council Meeting / Kids Activities

September 9th - Spiritual Academy, Kids Academy & Children's Choirs, Youth Small Groups Begin

Spiritual Academy Classes

"World Religions" Leader: Pastor Bruce

Forgiveness" Leader: Pastor Dale

"Passages Grief Group" Leader: Kimberly Weir - tentative, based on sign-ups.RSVP Here

"WITS (Workshop for In-Transition Series)" Leader: Robin Bullock. Please Sign Up Here.

New Sunday Evening Bible Study Starting Soon

Tue, 28 Jul 2009 11:24:57 -0400

Beginning Sunday, September 13 at 6pm in the SALT classroom (Room 202)

Putting on the Armor: Equipped and Deployed for Spiritual Warfare

From the cover...

Do I have to put on the armor daily? How do I put it on? What if I am mising one or more of the pieces?

Putting on the Armor: Equipped and Deployed for Spiritual Warfare gives solid answers from this well-known passage in Ephesians 6:10-20. Author Chuck Lawless explores not only this passage but also the entire book of Ephesians as Paul builds toward this topic in the last chapter.

Learn the interconnection between each part and why each is essential. Develop the desire for the godly character traits that allow believers to wear complete armor - not to sit on the bench or pew but to be deployed in your family, neighborhood, business, and church. Gaining insight into the Enemy's attacks will give you victory in defeating him or faithful endurance until God's purposes are served.

I am very, very excited about this new study. If you have any questions about it or would like to sign up for it, please don't hesitate to contact me at D.Tedder@southsidemethodist.org or 396-2676.

Stand Firm,
Dale

New Wednesday Morning Bible Study

Tue, 28 Jul 2009 11:10:13 -0400

Beginning Wednesday, September 2 at 11am in the FLC

Acts: Seeing the Spirit at Work

The Spirit moved in dramatic ways in the early church. The gospel was preached, thousands were added to their number, many were healed, and the good news about Jesus was spread across continents. Covering the exciting action of the Spirit in the years just following Jesus' life on earth, this study will open your eyes to the Spirit's power in the past and present and help you apply the riches of Scripture to your own life. (taken from the cover of the study guide)

If you have any questions about this new study or would like to sign up to be a part of it, please contact me at D.Tedder@southsidemethodist.org or call me at 396-2676. (Below is the table of contents of the study.)

Blessings,
Dale

Lesson 1 – Acts 1: Waiting for the Spirit
Lesson 2 – Acts 2: Receiving the Spirit
Lesson 3 – Acts 3:1 - 4:31: The Outbreak of Persecution
Lesson 4 – Acts 4:32 - 6:7: Satanic Counterattack
Lesson 5 – Acts 6:8 - 7:60: Stephen the Martyr
Lesson 6 – Acts 8:1-40: Philip the Evangelist
Lesson 7 – Acts 9:1-31: The Conversion of Saul
Lesson 8 – Acts 9:32 - 11:18: The Conversion of Cornelius
Lesson 9 - Acts 11:19 - 12:24: Growing Pains
Lesson 10 - Acts 12:25 - 14:28: Spreading the Word
Lesson 11 - Acts 15:1 - 16:5: Resolving Conflict
Lesson 12 - Acts 16:6 - 17:15: Following the Spirit
Lesson 13 - Acts 17:16-34: City of Idols
Lesson 14 - Acts 18 - 19: Good News Strategy
Lesson 15 - Acts 20:1 - 21:17: Saying Goodbye
Lesson 16 - Acts 21:18 - 23:35: Politics and Religion
Lesson 17 - Acts 24-26: The Gospel on Trial
Lesson 18 - Acts 27 - 28: Following God's Lead

Memorial Service for Kathleen Johnson - 8/4, Thurs, 10 AM

Mon, 03 Aug 2009 12:48:26 -0400

Langley Chapel

Obituary

Kathleen Keeler Johnson, 89, passed away on July 27, 2009. She was born in Bellefonte, PA. the daughter of the late, Harry V. and Vernetta B. Keeler and lived for many years in Jacksonville. She was predeceased by her husband, Hugh A. Johnson and son, Christopher Johnson, sisters, Betty K. Swartz and Mary E. Flack, a brother, Jay R. Keeler, Sr. Survivors include her brothers, Harry S. Keeler, Robert J. Keeler and Kenneth F. Keeler, sister Helen K. Shawley, nephew, Larry Swartz (Dottie) and numerous other family and friends. Services will be held at 10AM on Tuesday, August 4, 2009 in the Chapel of Southside United Methodist Church, with Rev. Bruce T. Jones, officiating. Interment will be in Oak Hill Cemetery, Quitman, GA. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to Southside United Methodist Church, 3120 Hendricks Avenue, Jacksonville,FL. 32207. NAUGLE FUNERAL HOME. Please Sign the Guestbook @ Jacksonville.com

Wanted: Adult Volunteer for Youth Praise Band!

Wed, 22 Jul 2009 15:05:03 -0400

The Youth are seeking an adult volunteer to help with the Youth Praise Band, as Matt's last day will be in August. Be a part of this exciting program with some super talented POINT Youth musicians! Please contact Amy Franks with questions at a.franks@southsidemethodist.org or 396-2676, Ext 114. Thank you!

Service for Richard Monk - Friday, July 31st, 10 AM

Thu, 30 Jul 2009 12:20:22 -0400

Visitation & Service Details

The family will receive friends from 6 - 8 pm Thursday, July 30 at Hardage-Giddens Funeral Home, 4115 Hendricks Ave., Jacksonville. A service celebrating Rick's life will be held Friday, July 31 at 10am at Southside United Methodist Church, 3120 Hendricks Ave. Interment will follow at Evergreen Cemetery, Gate 5. Arrangements by Hardage-Giddens Funeral Home, 4115 Hendricks Ave., Jacksonvile, FL.

Obituary

Richard Eugene Monk Richard Eugene Monk passed away on July 27, 2009. Rick was born in Ft. Worth Tx. and moved to Jacksonville in 1956. He has been a life long resident of Jacksonville since that time. He graduated from Sandelwood High School in 1972 and acquired an Associate of Arts degree from Florida Community College Jacksonville. Rick managed and eventually owned Monk's Hardware Co. on North Main St. He was very proud to be part of his family's business. During this time he was an active member of the Northside Business Men's Association. Rick was also a member and worshiped at Southside United Methodist Church. He had the privilege of serving on the Board of Trustees, teaching Sunday School and was often involved in his children's youth activities. Rick enjoyed many things in life including playing golf, and riding his beloved Harley. However, above all, spending time with his family was where he got his greatest joy. Rick is survived by his wife Karen of 20 years; his son, Richard Hardiman, his daughters Emily Barton and Amanda Clark, his parents, Marcus (Gene) and Rose Monk, his sisters Pamela Monk Taylor (Roger, deceased) and Cindy Monk Candamio (Frank); his parent in'laws Kenneth and Carolyn Boatright and his brother and sister-in-law Kenneth Mark Boatright, Sr. (Cindi) all of Lake City, FL. He is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, cousins , aunts and uncles as well a host of other friends and relatives.

Women: Join us for the Summer Salad Series

Wed, 01 Jul 2009 12:22:42 -0400

RESERVATIONS - Sorry, reservations are closed, but please come at 7:30 PM and enjoy our speaker and a cup of coffee.

Allowing the Holy Spirit to Change You From the Inside Out

Wednesdays, July 8, 15, 22, 29, 6:30 PM, Family Life Center

Ladies, please join us for our 6th annual Summer Salad Series at SUMC!!! We hope our theme, Allowing the Holy Spirit to Change You from the Inside Out, will both challenge and encourage you to grow as a woman in Christ. Each speaker will share from her heart, how the Holy Spirt has done a mighty work in her heart and how their lives have changed as a result of yielding to His leading. Please invite your women friends and neighbors for a night of great fellowship, food, music and biblical encouragement. Our speakers will be:

July 8th    Cindy Jarrell
July 15th  Stephanie Little
July 22nd Jennifer Drawdy
July 29th   Laura Lapp

Dinner: $5/dinner. ($.50/dinner will be added for online donations)

Contact: Amy Parks at 443-7395 or summersalads@southsidemethodist.org.

Childcare & Cancellations

Childcare Only: You may make your childcare reservations at the same time and with the same above online registration as dinner. If you have already made a dinner reservation and just need to add childcare, click here.

Cancellations (dinner and/or childcare): To cancel a dinner or childcare reservation, please click here.

Membership Sunday, August 23rd

Wed, 22 Apr 2009 12:53:07 -0400

Welcome to Southside! Series - begins August 1st

If you are interested in learning more or joining Southside, join Pastor Bruce during the Sunday School hour to learn more! This four session class is offered every Sunday in June, 10 AM, 2nd Floor of the Sanctuary. Just follow the arrows! The next class will begin in August.

Next Membership Sunday - August 23rd

If you have not yet joined SUMC or have a friend who hasn't joined, Pastor Bruce will be welcoming new members into the church family on the fourth Sunday of each month at both services. Please contact Bruce Jones at 396-2676 Ext. 112 or email b.jones@southsidemethodist.org or call Sarah Troup (Ext. 118) or email s.troup@southsidemethodist.org to let us know if you will be joining. It is simple!

Memorial Service for Jacqueline Daze - July 16th, 11 AM

Thu, 02 Jul 2009 08:39:48 -0400

Location: Langley Chapel

Reception immediately following in Family Life Center.

Request Access to the Online Church Directory

Thu, 04 Jun 2009 12:20:51 -0400

If you are a member of SUMC and have not received the access link to the church directory, please email Sarah Troup at s.troup@southsidemethodist.org with:

Your Name (First & Last)
Your Email Address

We will verify your information and send you the link. Due to privacy, we are only providing the directory to church members. Please allow 72 hours to process your request.

Thank you!

Sunday Summer Nights at Southside

Tue, 26 May 2009 08:53:15 -0400

Something for every member of the family!

Sundays, June 14th - August 30th

For Adults

Passing the Baton

6 PM - 7:30 PM, Family Life Center

Study Leader: Pastor Dale Tedder (d.tedder@southsidemethodist.org)

Passing the Baton is for parents of children & youth (and any other parents who would like to attend).

The emphasis will be on how we as parents (and as a church) can help our children make a way in this world as faithful disciples of Jesus Christ. Here's a description of the course... "Every church knows that it lives or dies by how its members invest in the next generation. Yet many adults are busy, unequipped or afraid. The Passing the Baton Training Course is a mobilizing tool that shows Christian adults how to mentor, coach and disciple the next generation in a fun, natural and stress-free way."

For Children

Children's Summer Nights

6 PM - 7:30 PM, Family Life Center

Leader: Angie Cosper (a.cosper@southsidemethodist.org)

Children whose parents are participating in the Passing the Baton study are welcome to join us for games, crafts & other activities that bring to life the week's bible verse through fun themes - Sports Spectacular, Painting Pottery, Pirates & Princesses & More! Nursery will also be available for younger children.

For Youth

Swim & Study

6 PM - 8 PM, Amy Franks' home

Leader: Amy Franks (a.franks@southsidemethodist.org)

Youth, stop by for a cook-out and swim follwed by a poolside Bible study on Sunday nights.

Please RSVP here if you or your children will be joining a study.

Registered for VBS? Please join us Saturday...

Mon, 15 Jun 2009 09:38:49 -0400

Saturday, June 20th 5pm-7pm for the

VBS Packet Pick-up Pizza Party and Scavenger Hunt!

Bring your family and kick off VBS by starting your adventure in the Wildwood Forest. Join the fun and take part in a wild Scavenger Hunt and feast your appetite with a Pizza Party! Pick up your group assignment, find out who your vbs leader is going to be, get your t-shirt and CD.

Pizza Dinner provided. Please RSVP by Wednesday, June 17th so we have your packet (and your pizza) ready. We will have out a "donation bucket" so feel free to drop a few dollars to help us cover expenses for this party. We look forward to seeing you and starting this adventure!

If you cannot make it to the party, packets will be available starting at 8:30am Monday. Please plan to come early and anticipate a line and wait.

POINT Youth Calendar Highlights

Tue, 14 Apr 2009 16:11:30 -0400

4/19 Ecumenical Gathering – All Area Club in FLC at 6pm

4/26 Pure Excitement Concert – Bus leaves SUMC at 5pM

5/3 Senior Banquet Celebration – FLC at 6pm. Tickets: $10

5/10 Mother’s Day – NO POINT Club

5/17 POINT CLUB back on in the FLC

5/24 Last POINT CLUB in the FLC

5/31 End of Year Party for Youth – bring your own dish

6/7-6/13 YOUTH WEEK AWESOMENESS

8/3-8/9 Youth mission trip to Charleston, SC. Limited space. Sign up fast!

Sunday Nights in the Summer: Swim/Dinner/Bible Study at Amy Franks’ Home, 6-8pm

Contact Amy Franks, Youth Director, with questions at a.franks@southsidemethodist.org.

Sunday School Open House & Teacher Recognition

Wed, 06 May 2009 11:12:33 -0400

Sunday, May 17, 10 AM - 11 AM, Breezeway

Sunday School is a small group setting where we can study the Word that God has graciously given to us. Next Sunday, each Sunday School Class will host an Open House along the breezeway. Find out what they study and who they are. Tables will be set-up with goodies and will be hosted by class members who can answer your questions. We hope you will take time to mingle after or before church to learn about adult, youth and children's Sunday School.

Please join us for a PICNIC-IN-THE-PARK on 5/17!

Wed, 06 May 2009 11:06:30 -0400

Hosted by the Discovery Sunday School Class

Sunday, May 17th 4pm-6pm

Granada Park

We will serve Pulled Pork Bar-B-Que Sandwiches by our own George Richardson and "Pass the Hat" for the Warren W. Willis Camp Scholarship Fund.

Bring a side or dessert to share & a blanket or chairs. Drinks provided. Come enjoy fun, fellowship, football throwing, playground and more. Reservations are not required but encouraged for bar-b-que sandwiches.

Interfaith Council Issue Forum: Family Values in Jax - May 19th, 7:30 PM, Family Life Center

Tue, 12 May 2009 14:55:34 -0400

Family Values in Jacksonville: Faith Groups Speak Out

Tuesday, May 19th, 7:30-9:30 p.m. at Southside Methodist Church, south end of their facilities, at 3120 Hendricks Ave. Sponsored by the Jacksonville Interfaith Council

Our scriptures and beliefs all support the family as the foundation of our faiths. Our faiths and families nurture the values with which we live our lives. In the 21^st century, the family in Jacksonville looks different than Biblical or even frontier American families did. Fifty per cent of American marriages do not last a lifetime. Most women work outside of the home, by financial necessity and/or by choice. Many families with children have only a single parent resident in the home. Extended families may live thousands of miles away. Most families have complicated, busy schedules and often do not spend much of their time together. Given the realities of the 21^st century Jacksonville family, what do our congregations and faiths teach us about appropriate family values?

A panel of Jacksonville faith leaders will address the following questions during an evening of discussion among people of faith in Jacksonville.

1. What has your faith taught you about appropriate family values?

2. What does your faith teach about parents' appropriate responsibilities and boundaries?

3. How does your faith deal with conflicts between spouses?

4. How does your faith respond to the different kinds of families in your congregation and in Jacksonville today?

5. How do your members find balance between home and work, family, friends, and civic responsibilities?

The panelists are: Helen Godwin, President of the Jacksonville Interfaith Council and an active Methodist, David O'Byrne, a marriage and family counselor at Catholic Charities, Rev. Deborah Jackson, St. John's Episcopal Church, Rabbi Joshua Lief, The Temple, and Rev. Dr. Nicholas Louh, St. John the Divine Greek Orthodox Church. The moderator will be Dr. John Young, Unitarian Universalist Minister and Adjunct Professor of Religion at UNF. The moderator will make an opening statement and introduce the panel. The panelists will each address the initial question for about 3 minutes. Then, the panel will discuss the other four questions with each other for about 25 minutes. All those who attend will be sitting in tables of eight that mix congregations so that each table has diverse participants. They will spend the next 10 minutes deciding upon two questions that they would like the panel to address later, and then the small groups will spend their remaining 30 minutes in their small group discussing the topic. In the remaining 40 minutes, the panel will address some of the questions raised by the small groups. A member of the Amity Turkish Center is providing free cheese or vegetarian pizza for the participants. Please join us! Help us to build bridges of love and justice!

Ride the SUMC Bus to "Just Give Me Jesus"

Wed, 08 Apr 2009 15:31:55 -0400

Event Dates: Friday, April 24, 2009 and Saturday, April 25, 2009

Make reservations to ride on the church bus to see Anne Graham Lotz at the Veterans Memorial Arena. The SUMC bus will leave the church at 6:00 pm on Friday evening, April 24; and again at 7:30 am on Saturday morning, April 25.

Joe can take 24 on the bus! Please make your reservations early by calling the church office at 396-2676.

Just Give Me Jesus is a two-day event. Please plan to attend both days!

Friday, April 24, 2009, 7:00 - 9:00PM (Doors open at 5:30PM)

Saturday, April 25, 2009, 8:30AM - 5:00PM (Doors open at 7:00 AM)

Registration - Admission is free. Neither tickets nor registration are required.

Local Bible Bee - Sign up by 4/30!

Sat, 04 Apr 2009 20:01:31 -0400

Learn It! Speak It! Live It!

A refreshing and stimulating Bible memory competition for students ages 7-18.

The Local Contest

Saturday, September 12, 2009

First Baptist Church in Downtown Jacksonville

Sign Up Now! Enrollment ends April 30, 2009.

Contact: BibleBeeJax@comcast.net to sign up, or for more info visit www.biblebee.org.

Top 300 Winners Advance to the National Bible Bee in Washington, D.C.

November 5-6, 2009.

$260,000 in Prize Money!

Easter Sunday Worship Services

Thu, 26 Mar 2009 13:43:11 -0400

Easter Sunday, April 12th

7 AM Sunrise Service (casual dress), Sanctuary Front Steps followed by donuts in the Garden. Worship Leader: Amy Franks, Youth Director. Music by Youth Choir.
9 AM Contemporary Worship Service, Sanctuary. Worship Leaders: Pastor Bruce T. Jones and Dale Tedder, Minister of Discipleship. Music by SUMC Praise Band.
11 AM Traditional Worship Service, Sanctuary, Worship Leaders: Pastor Bruce T. Jones and Dale Tedder, Minister of Discipleship. Music by Chancel Choir, Jon Carlson, director, Charlotte Miller, organist

Visitor Information

Visit our visitor information section for details about the services, what to wear, driving directions, children's church, and more. You can also view an online video about Southside United Methodist Church.

Easter Holy Week Schedule

Mon, 23 Feb 2009 10:26:00 -0500

Easter Holy Week Schedule

Palm Sunday, April 5, 9 am & 11 am, Sanctuary, Contemporary & Traditional Worship Services.
Daily Devotion & Prayer, Monday-Friday, 6:30 am, Langley Chapel, Join Pastor Bruce and Pastor Dale in prayer each morning.
Lenten Meditation & Lunch Series, Wednesday, April 8, 11:30 am, Langley Chapel. Prayer, hymns, and a meditation by Barry Henry. Join us for a light lunch in the Family Life Center following the service. Suggested lunch donation: $3 plus a canned food item for UCOM.
Maundy Thursday Dinner & Drama, April 9, 5:15 pm, Family Life Center, Jews for Jesus will present Christ in the Passover. Don't miss this special presentation. Dinner is $6/adult, $4/child under 12, and $16 max/family.
Good Friday Hands-On Experience & Picnic for Children, April 10, 10:30am, Garden. Parents, bring your children for this special opportunity to touch and feel the experiences that relate to the true story of Christ's sacrifice and the wonder of the resurrection. Bring a blanket and picnic lunch and join us after for lunch in the garden. A wonderful chance to have a truly meaningful Easter experience with your children.
Men's Easter Breakfast, Saturday, April 11, 8 a.m., Family Life Center. Jon Singleton, speaking. Great breakfast and fellowship! Invite sons, fathers, neighbors, friends.
Church-wide Easter Covered-Dish Picnic & Egg Hunt, Saturday, 4 pm, the Point. Bring a covered dish to share. We will provide fried chicken, lemonade, and paper products. RSVP by calling the church office or clicking here. Rain plans: Picnic and eggs in Family Life Center

Easter Sunday Services, April 12th

7 am Sunrise Service (casual dress), Sanctuary Front Steps followed by donuts in the Garden. Worship Leader: Amy Franks, Youth Director. Music by Youth Choir.
9 am Contemporary Worship Service, Sanctuary. Worship Leaders: Pastor Bruce T. Jones and Dale Tedder, Minister of Discipleship. Music by SUMC Praise Band.
10 am Sunday School - Most Sunday School Classes will not be meeting, but check with Sunday School leaders about your class schedule.
11 am Traditional Worship Service, Sanctuary, Worship Leaders: Pastor Bruce T. Jones and Dale Tedder, Minister of Discipleship. Music by Chancel Choir, Jon Carlson, director, Charlotte Miller, organist

Visitor Information

Children & Youth Choir Details for Palm Sunday

Sat, 04 Apr 2009 19:37:00 -0400

Choir children will be escorted from Sunday School by Choir and Children's Ministry leaders to appropriate meeting places for rehearsal and robing. If your child does not attend Sunday School, please bring them to the following locations:

Littlest Angels - 10:30 AM, Littlest Angels Choir Room (PreK 4 Sunday School Room).

Cherub Choir - 10:30 AM, Family Life Center

Wesley Choir - 10:30 AM, Choir room

Youth Choir - 10:15 AM, Choir Room. Dress: khaki and solid polo.

Church-wide Picnic-on-the-Point - RSVP

Thu, 12 Mar 2009 15:50:26 -0400

Sat., April 11th at 4pm, The Point

Please join us for a SUMC covered dish picnic on the grounds! Enjoy food & fellowship as little ones search for eggs galore on The Point during The Hunt. A great event for all generations. Fried chicken, lemonade & water and paper products will be provided so please CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP! Bring your favorite side dish or dessert to share and a blanket. (Limited tables and chairs will be available. Please reserve at sign-up.) Donations of Plastic Eggs (large and small) as well as individually wrapped (non-chocolate) candy donations are needed. Look for the brightly colored bins in the Front Office, FLC and Children's Bldg. Contact Suzanne Pannell, Beth Neale or Angie Cosper (396-2676 x123) if you have any questions.

Message from JoAnn Linville

Tue, 24 Mar 2009 09:40:02 -0400

JoAnn would like to thank everyone for their prayers for George as he recovers from surgery. At the moment, he is in the ICU and cannot have visitors. She would also like everyone to know that she is sorry that she will be unable to return phone calls for the next couple of weeks, as she tends closely to George. Thank you for continuing to lift him in your prayers.

Down by the Creekbank Children's Musical on March 25th

Tue, 17 Feb 2009 13:56:53 -0500

Click here for the rehearsal schedule and your child's part.

Dear Parents,

I am very excited to announce that we will be producing a Spring Musical for your children to perform at 6pm on Wednesday, March 25^th following Family Night Dinner. This musical "Down by the Creekbank" is a classic favorite that many of you may remember from your own church choir days! It is a touching celebration of the wonder and majesty of God's creation seen through the eyes of children as they spend an afternoon "Down By The Creekbank." This undertaking is a wonderful way for the children to participate in their own childlike praise and worship. We feel certain it will be a blessing to parents and others in the audience as well so invite your friends and family!

After reviewing the musical with the children and talking with them about their interests, we have assigned speaking parts, solos and motion leaders so that each Cherub and Wesley choir member has a time to "shine in the spotlight." Our Littlest Angels will participate as well with 2 fun and amusing songs that many of you may have already heard them singing, "Germs" and "Being Me". There will also be opportunities for children to help with making set components and items needed for costumes.

With more than 80 children in our 3 children's choirs, pulling off this Musical will be quite a feat! Our Children's Choir Directors, Christine Sasser, Heather Johnson and Katie Zahn along with their assistants and accompanists as well as our Drama Coach, Jeanette Yates are already hard at work teaching the children the songs and their parts. We have scheduled rehearsals during the regular Wednesday Night Choir and Kid's Academy times from 5:45 – 7:15pm. A few other rehearsals are necessary to be sure each child gets help with their featured part and so the entire group is able to practice together on stage in the Family Life Center.

Please take a minute to review the enclosed rehearsal schedule and note it on your calendar so your children are available. We do hope that every child is able to make these rehearsals and participate in the musical. If you have any questions or scheduling conflicts, please call or email me at a.cosper@southsidemethodist.org as soon as possible. If necessary, we can schedule a make up practice for your child or reassign a part if your child cannot participate.

Our Wednesday Night Kid's Academy and Children's Choirs are such a joyful part of Southside United Methodist Church. I have enjoyed working with the many adult volunteers who make this special time possible and who are donating their time and talents to serve our Lord in this way. Please join me in supporting this in this endeavor with your prayers and support. Should you be interested in assisting in any additional way, helping hands are always welcome and needed.

Thank you for sharing your children with us!

Angie Cosper

Southside's Pre-Race Pasta Party!

Thu, 26 Feb 2009 20:15:47 -0500

Friday, March 13th, 5:30 pm, Family Life Center

Southside's first annual Pre-River Run Pasta Party! Join us for Pasta and Pre-Run Activities to get psyched up as a runner or fan. We will have all you can eat pasta, poster making, orange cutting for the racers the next day, banner for the orange pass out table, movies and more! Take out plates available. A great family event. Friends and Neighbors invited but you have to pre-buy your tickets!

Tickets on sale on our website for $5. Dinner will be served 5:30-6:30, Movie at 6:30, poster making, games and activities begin at 5pm. Be sure to send us the names of the runners in your family so we can cheer them on! On Saturday, we will have posters, banners and orange slices given out to the runners on San Mateo so family members join us! See you there!

This is not an official Gate River Run sponsored event, so make sure you pick up your race packets at the Expo!

RSVP HERE!

Watch the Race at Cindy's House

Saturday, March 14th, arrive by 8 am or the streets will close! San Mateo Rd.

Bring a folding chair. If you bring children, pack some snacks! Cindy will have breakfast casserole, 40 cup coffee pot and coffee bar. If possible, bring a garbage bag to help clean up or anything to share if you like.

Directions for parking: At the end of San Mateo Avenue at the Atlantic intersection, there is a law office with lots of parking and it is empty on Saturday. They may park in that parking lot or on the street. Street is closed off about 5 houses before mine. They close off the streets at 8.

Communion & Home Visitation

Thu, 26 Feb 2009 16:23:35 -0500

Over the next few weeks, I will be visiting the homebound with Jean Dart. We will be bringing the Holy Communion to each home. Currently, we have a list of folks who have requested a visit or who have been recommended.

However, we do not wish to overlook the needs of any member of our congregation. If you know of someone who would like to have a pastoral visit - and the sacrament brought to them - please contact the church office at 396-2676 and let us know of the need.

~ Bruce

Fresh Bread for Today - Manna for Men

Thu, 05 Feb 2009 14:17:09 -0500

When I was in seminary, I had a spiritual mentor who offered wonderful direction for my life. Furthermore, his life matched what he taught. One of the things that stood out about him was his love for God's Word. I believe his love for Scripture was one of the key influences on my life.

He used to talk about a dear friend of his who, every time they would see each other would ask, "Got any fresh bread for me?" The goal of the question was to find out if these two brothers in Christ had been spending time in God's Word. And not just within the last week or two...but that day. Was the bread FRESH?

Our Lord called himself the bread of life. One of the chief ways we encounter him is when we meditate upon his Word day and night. His Spirit fills us and ministers to us when we do.

Interestingly, Jesus teaches us to ask God, in prayer, to give us each day our daily bread. The implication is that we need to depend on God DAILY for his gracious provision. To make such a request each day reminds us that we are in constant need of him and what he supplies – whether it's spiritual, physical, or emotional nourishment.

The children of Israel were taught the same lesson. After they had escaped from Egypt they wandered around, not quite sure where they were heading. And they were hungry...which didn't help their attitudes much.

Therefore, God is his great mercy, promised them food – manna from heaven. But there was a stipulation about this divine sustenance: One could only gather enough manna for each day (except on the day before the Sabbath...when one could gather enough for two days). No storing was allowed. In fact, if they tried to store the manna it would begin to rot immediately. Why? I suspect for two reasons, at least. The first reason is the same as why Jesus told us to pray daily for our bread; it shows our continual dependence upon God.

The second reason, I imagine, has a great deal to do with our fallen human nature. If God had set no limits on when the manna could be gathered (and that it wouldn't spoil if it was stored for more than a day), I believe the children of Israel would have started to believe that they, and not God, were responsible for meeting their needs. They would have robbed God of his glory. They may have begun to actually believe that they were smart enough, righteous enough, industrious enough to diligently collect, store, and even sell the bread.

God's message was clear: "You must depend on me each and every day. My grace will have to be sufficient for you. Trust me...I'm all you need."

So it is in our spiritual lives. We must turn to God each and every day. We can't store up enough grace on Sunday morning and coast on it the rest of the week. We need fresh bread to sustain us. This is how we abide in Christ and how he abides in us.

One of the new ministries that started last year was begun with the goal of helping you feed daily on God's Word. "Manna for Men" is a weekly email that provides you with Scripture reading for each day of the week. If you are interested in learning more about this ministry or would like to sign up to have this manna delivered to your in-box each Sunday evening, then please contact Lori Ibach at baabaababies@aol.com and she will add you to the list.

Let us join with the psalmist who knew the joy and delight of feeding on God's fresh bread...

Psalm 119:9-16

How can a young man keep his way pure?
By living according to your word.
[10] I seek you with all my heart;
do not let me stray from your commands.
[11] I have hidden your word in my heart
that I might not sin against you.
[12] Praise be to you, O Lord;
teach me your decrees.
[13] With my lips I recount
all the laws that come from your mouth.
[14] I rejoice in following your statutes
as one rejoices in great riches.
[15] I meditate on your precepts
and consider your ways.
[16] I delight in your decrees;
I will not neglect your word.

Thanks be to God,
Dale

New Men's Study Starts Next Week

Wed, 07 Jan 2009 09:52:39 -0500

Being God's Man...By Finding Contentment

Beginning next week, (January 12th and 14th)

How satisfied are you with your life?

"Men like you are finding it tougher than ever to be content with what they have. They compare themselves with others and continually come up short. The soul-gnawing result is discouragement and disappointment.

"Lasting contentment comes only from a transformation of your mind, emotions, and will. It also takes a personal encounter with the God who can make you content.

"In Being God's Man by Finding Contentment, you will track this struggle for a new identity through various biblical passages. Like Jacob, you will not be fully settled and content until you lay to rest your past and take up a new identity in Christ. Jacob became a new creature, a man on a mission for the Lord. His struggle was over. He knew why he was here and what he had to do. His life took on purpose and meaning that transcended the striving. Yours can too." (taken from the cover of the study guide)

This new study will begin on Monday, January 12 and Wednesday, January 14.

Lesson 1 – Accept It! Wanting Nothing More, Nothing Less
Lesson 2 – Can Money Buy Contentment? Looking for Contentment in All the Wrong Places
Lesson 3 – Worry Won't Get You Anywhere: Eliminating the Anxious Heart
Lesson 4 – Heaven Bound, Hassle Free: Being Content – Because of Heaven
Lesson 5 – Worst-Case Scenario: Realizing You're Not in Charge
Lesson 6 – Come Clean with Weakness: Living Content with Who You Really Are
Lesson 7 – Mission Possible: Finding a Mission That Brings Contentment
Lesson 8 – Watch Out for Out of Bounds! Getting Rid of That Fleshy Discontent

Want more information? Contact Dale Tedder at 396-2676 or d.tedder@southsidemethodist.org.

Romans Study

Tue, 06 Jan 2009 13:45:30 -0500

Every Sunday evening (from 6pm to 7:30pm) one of our faithful groups of saints gathers together to tackle one of the toughest books of the Bible - the book of Romans! It is true that it's one of the toughest books, but let me quickly add that it's also one of the most profitable.

You are invited to join us this coming Sunday evening as we take a look at Romans 9:30 - 10:21, which will focus on the topic of "unbelief." We would love to have you study with us.

We eat and enjoy fellowship from 6:00pm to 6:30pm. The actual lesson begins at 6:30. We are presently meeting in the SALT classroom (Room 201) which is upstairs in the education building.

If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to give me a call at 396-2676 or send me an email - d.tedder@southsidemethodist.org.

PS - Beginning in September we will be starting a brand new study on Spiritual Warfare.

Blessings,
Pastor Dale

Click here to check out my blog.

SUMC Sidelines

Southside UMC Calendar - Weekly & Monthly Views

The Weekly View

Attention JOY Group Members...It's Christmas in July!

700 Little Ones Expected in SUMC's VBS Guatemala

Southside Men - The Blog

How Your Open Box of Bandaids Can Make a Difference

Contact Stevie Schoof with questions at stevieschoof@comcast.net or 396-9935.

One hour that could change your family life...10 AM this Sunday, July 18th, FLC

Message from Angie...July & August Children's Sunday School

Summer Sunday School in July

Summer Sunday School in August

Message from Pastor Bruce regarding worship...

Memorial Garden at Southside UMC. Did you know...

Youth Super Summer Sign-ups!

Sunday, June 6th, 6-8 pm, Family Life Center.

FL United Methodist Children's Home 5th Sunday!

Cleaning Out Your Closets & Drawers? Family Promise is collecting gently used clothes...

Family Promise of Jacksonville

Curious About the Mission2Guatemala? Click here to read more!

August 1st- 9th 2010

Your Financial and Prayer Support is Crucial to the Success of our Mission.

Donate VBS Supplies!

The Mission Team

Additional Information

Baxter Boys this week

Submit a Prayer Request

Join the Study Sisters for a Special Program, - Wednesday, April 21st, 6 PM

Play Southside UMC's Minute to Win It - Wednesday, April 21st, 5:45 PM, FLC!

Men's Discipleship at Southside

Announcing a new ministry at Southside: SpiritSound!

History of Southside Men

Welcome to Renovate Your Life

Renovate – to restore to good condition; to make new or as if new again; to repair. to reinvigorate; refresh; to revive. (from www.Dictionary.com)

Last Chance to Order Easter Lilies!

Festival of Favorite Anthems ~ March Madness

Festival of Favorite Anthems

Weekly Devotional ~ One Thing: Resentment

Weekly Lenten Devotion ~ Healing 2/24/10

Pastor Bruce's "8 Days of Prayer" Journal

Lent & Holy Week Programming

Is there one thing that causes you to stumble...one desire, one habit, one fear?

What is the one thing that hinders...your full commitment to Jesus?

Is there one thing you need to grab hold of?

Lenten Meditation and Lunch Series

Wednesday Nights: "Pressing On"

Holy Week Schedule

Easter Sunday Worship Schedule

Want to Host a Child from Afghanistan?

You are invited to "All About Love" ~ A Choral Concert 2/12

Join our "Souper" Bowl Effort

A Call to Compassionate Aid to the People of Haiti in Jesus' Name

Help a Family Promise family move out by bringing in cleaning supplies...

Financial Address to Church

Take it to the Limit

New Baxter Boys Study: Being God's Man... in the Search for Success

Come and join us...

Sermon on the Mount

Children's Ministries 2009-2010 Winter Schedule

Advent Devotional 2009 ~ Introduction

Table of Contents

When did it all happen?

Click here to sign up for the daily e-devotional.

Booklets are available in the church office.

A downloadable version will be available online on Monday, Nov. 30th.

Looks like a great movie for the Christmas season...

Humble Harvest Saturday - Share Your Abundance!

Saturday, December 12, Noon, the Point

Join the Youth, Preschool, Asbury Class in collecting items for FL UM Children's Home

Coming Soon...Top Chef at Southside!!!

Wanted:

Requirements:

Competition Rules:

Competition Schedule (during Wednesday Night Dinners):

Entry:

Mail or Bring your Stewardship Pledge Key to the Church Office

Sign up by Dec 1st for the Mission Trip to Guatemala. Read more...

Mission Trip to Guatemala

All Saints Day - Nov 1st

Prayer Meeting -- Sunday, November 1, 5 PM, Langley Chapel.

Sunday, October 25th from 4pm-7pm
Family fun, carnival games, rides, prizes, ponies, barrell train, giant slide and more!