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HUNDREDS CELEBRATE GOD AND COUNTRY AT

WESLEY'S PATRIOTIC PAGEANT

Nearly 1,000 Wesley members and visitors came together last Sunday to celebrate the birthday of America and God’s blessings upon us. Once again our Patriotic Pageant attracted many visitors not only from Springfield, but many nearby towns as well.

"We always look forward to this every year", stated a friend of a Wesley member. "I wouldn't miss it for anything", stated another Wesley visitor. Young and old alike came and enjoyed a music and drama presentation that was covered by three local television stations on the Sunday evening news.

A special thanks to the choir and orchestra for their beautiful music. From the familiar patriotic tunes to newer selections, they did it all and did it incredibly well! The acting scenes took us to a hotel room in New York City where a family, Jon and Amy Anfinson and Evan and Elli Lurvey, were on vacation. It was then off to the home of Thomas and Martha Jefferson, along with John Adams. These roles were recreated by Richard and Sharon Ellis, and Kevin Howard. The Pilgrims, ready to leave for America, were played by Judith Hendrix and Larry Gunner. Jesse Owsley and Will Moore gave us some moving moments as they portrayed soldiers on the battlefield.

What a spectacle as hundreds candles were lifted in the sanctuary as we heard the words to "Candle In the Darkness". The Statue and the Cross brought us another memorable moment as the two were compared in a narration and song. And then there was the "Armed Forces Medley", as we honored all the many, many veterans who were with us. A special thanks to the Hospitality Team for their welcoming smiles, handshakes, and for becoming flag bearers in the finale number.

"We owe a great deal of gratitude to so many people for making this event so successful", says Ed Smith. "From the tech crew, to the kitchen crew, the ushers and greeters, set construction and decorating people, those who set up the picnic, the Wesley staff, and the list goes on and on. It simply takes a whole lot of willing people to make it happen every year. I can't thank God enough for blessing us. I could truly feel His spirit upon us as we presented "With Freedom’s Holy Light". It was a spiritual experience I won't soon forget".

The Pastor's Pen

Staff Parish Committee Approves Adjustments

Meeting on June 23, the Wesley Staff Parish Committee, chaired by Jeff Slemp, acted on four items regarding staff:

1. Michelle Jackson shared her intention to serve in her present capacity as Director of Congregational Ministries, with her current duties, and to return her compensation to the congregation. As she and her husband Shawn have discerned God’s leading to self-fund this position, the staff parish committee commended her, celebrated with her and expressed their appreciation. This arrangement will begin July 1.

2. The staff parish committee is planning to use the majority of the funding available from the above shift to begin funding a type of health care benefit for full-time staff beginning in 2010. This is in accordance with the Joel Team Strategic plan, and all options will be considered.

3. Recognizing the fruitful work of Meredith Harper in her role as “Ministry Assistant”, the committee received the recommendation from Pastor Bruce to promote Meredith to “Director of Adult Discipleship” and increase her hours to 35 per week, and also raise her compensation. Joining the executive staff she will work with the new member process, small groups, adult Sunday school, and other items that relate to adult discipleship.

4. Ted Madden shared his desire to serve Christ through Wesley in a more substantial commitment. The committee received the pastor’s recommendation that Ted serve as “Coordinator of Mission and Outreach” working approximately 2 days a week, with staff responsibilities. Ted and his wife Shirley have discerned that they will self-fund this position, thus he will work without compensation from Wesley.

Summary – God has been at work among the people of Wesley – leading, guiding, and

bearing fruit. It is a joy to serve on this dedicated staff team with such committed servant

leaders, both paid and unpaid. May our Lord continue to lead all of us to fully say “Yes

God!” in every way in which he leads.

In Christ,
Bruce

July Sermon Series
"Unwrapping Ephesians"

A four part expository series applying the Bible to daily life.