Sunday Breakfast for New Launch Congregation

On Sunday, June 19, Brighton First will host a breakfast for the Launching Congregation of our upcoming band-led worship. The breakfast will begin at 10:30 am, directly after the 9:30 worship service. All those interested in hearing more about our new 11:00 worship service are welcome to attend.

The Vital Church Initiative Consultation Report (find a PDF of the consultation report in the "documents" link at the top of the right column of this blog page) directed Brighton First to act in specific ways to improve worship. By adopting the consultation report, we agreed to take these actions.

In the fall of 2015 we hired worship consultant, Rev. Cathy Townley. With her direction we have been working to improve all of our worship services. Brighton First also agreed to re-invent our third worship service. On May 22, the 11:00 worship service was closed. Over the summer we have begun to develop a new worship format with the help of newly hired worship leader Mike Tooman.

The breakfast on June 19 is an opportunity for those who will be attending the new worship service to get to know each other. In addition Mike Tooman, Director of Discipleship Bob Fuchs and myself will cast a vision for the new worshiping congregation of the band-led worship service.

The agenda for Sunday includes: "get-acquainted" conversations around the tables as we share a meal, singing led by Mike Tooman and presentations from church leaders. The breakfast meeting will end with a challenge to attendees to commit to different ministries that will support the new congregation.

This is an exciting time in the life of Brighton First and I look forward to what God has in store for this new venture in ministry. If you plan to attend the breakfast on Sunday, June 19 at 10:30 please RSVP HERE.

Sunday Breakfast for New Launch Congregation

On Sunday, June 19, Brighton First will host a breakfast for the Launching Congregation of our upcoming band-led worship. The breakfast will begin at 10:30 am, directly after the 9:30 worship service. All those interested in hearing more about our new 11:00 worship service are welcome to attend.

The Vital Church Initiative Consultation Report (find a PDF of the consultation report in the "documents" link at the top of the right column of this blog page) directed Brighton First to act in specific ways to improve worship. By adopting the consultation report, we agreed to take these actions.

In the fall of 2015 we hired worship consultant, Rev. Cathy Townley. With her direction we have been working to improve all of our worship services. Brighton First also agreed to re-invent our third worship service. On May 22, the 11:00 worship service was closed. Over the summer we have begun to develop a new worship format with the help of newly hired worship leader Mike Tooman.

The breakfast on June 19 is an opportunity for those who will be attending the new worship service to get to know each other. In addition Mike Tooman, Director of Discipleship Bob Fuchs and myself will cast a vision for the new worshiping congregation of the band-led worship service.

The agenda for Sunday includes: "get-acquainted" conversations around the tables as we share a meal, singing led by Mike Tooman and presentations from church leaders. The breakfast meeting will end with a challenge to attendees to commit to different ministries that will support the new congregation.

This is an exciting time in the life of Brighton First and I look forward to what God has in store for this new venture in ministry. If you plan to attend the breakfast on Sunday, June 19 at 10:30 please RSVP HERE.

11:00 a.m. Sunday Worship Service to End on May 22

After prayer and discussion, leaders of our church have determined that our current 11:00 worship service will close after Sunday worship on May 22. Summer will be a time of “reconfiguring” as we design a new band-led worship service that will begin at 11:00 am on Sunday, September 11.

Over the summer, the newly formed praise band and worship leaders will prepare for the new worship launch. There will be two preview worship services at 11:00 on Sunday, July 24 and August 21. Worshipers will experience the new style of worship and take part in evaluating the worship service for improvement.

Many have asked how they can assist in launching our new worship service:

·         Pray. Pray for the faithful members of 11:00 worship who will be joining the 9:30 am worship for the summer. Also, please hold the development of the new worship service in your prayers.

·         Be part of the Launching Congregation. Prayerfully discern whether or not you are called to be part of the Launch Congregation. Contact Pastor Sherry, Mike Tooman (Worship Leader) or Bob Fuchs (Director of Discipleship) for more information.

·         Be a Worship “Missionary”.In the fall, we are calling on 20 – 30 people to be “missionaries” to the new worship service, attending that worship for 4 – 6 months.

I am giving thanks to God for what God has done for those who have made the 11:00 worship service their church home. It has been a special worship for many who have grown close to Jesus Christ. I am thankful for the many musicians who have faithfully led in worship over the years and I am thankful, especially, for the congregation members of 11:00 who continue to witness through their hope-filled presence.

God is doing great things at Brighton First.

11:00 a.m. Sunday Worship Service to End on May 22

After prayer and discussion, leaders of our church have determined that our current 11:00 worship service will close after Sunday worship on May 22. Summer will be a time of “reconfiguring” as we design a new band-led worship service that will begin at 11:00 am on Sunday, September 11.

Over the summer, the newly formed praise band and worship leaders will prepare for the new worship launch. There will be two preview worship services at 11:00 on Sunday, July 24 and August 21. Worshipers will experience the new style of worship and take part in evaluating the worship service for improvement.

Many have asked how they can assist in launching our new worship service:

·         Pray. Pray for the faithful members of 11:00 worship who will be joining the 9:30 am worship for the summer. Also, please hold the development of the new worship service in your prayers.

·         Be part of the Launching Congregation. Prayerfully discern whether or not you are called to be part of the Launch Congregation. Contact Pastor Sherry, Mike Tooman (Worship Leader) or Bob Fuchs (Director of Discipleship) for more information.

·         Be a Worship “Missionary”. In the fall, we are calling on 20 – 30 people to be “missionaries” to the new worship service, attending that worship for 4 – 6 months.

I am giving thanks to God for what God has done for those who have made the 11:00 worship service their church home. It has been a special worship for many who have grown close to Jesus Christ. I am thankful for the many musicians who have faithfully led in worship over the years and I am thankful, especially, for the congregation members of 11:00 who continue to witness through their hope-filled presence.

God is doing great things at Brighton First.

Discipleship Team Building Strong Foundation

Brighton First has been in the practice of offering adult classes for decades. Many have grown deeper in faith and stronger in discipleship through intentional Bible study, as well as book studies and discussion groups. Those who have been part of classes have gained knowledge and community. I celebrate the hundreds of adults who have been changed by classes at Brighton First.

However, our Vital Church Initiative Consultation made us aware that we have opportunities for adult faith formation, we have neglected to be intentional in strengthening discipleship of those who attend Brighton First. Our classes have been helpful, but have been chosen, not with a specific goal in mind, but based on the interest of participants and the teachers.

The team working on Intentional Discipleship has been charged with creating a strategic disciple-strengthening plan for our church. Karen Wagg, chairperson for the team and Bob Fuchs, director of discipleship, are working with a committed group of people to ask basic questions and develop a program.

Karen Wagg and Bob Fuchs meet regularly
to review adult discipleship resources.

In most United Methodist Churches, the first question that is asked in this type of planning is "What classes will we offer in the fall?" That's the quick and easy way to plan out an adult faith formation curriculum. This Brighton First Discipleship Team has chosen a more challenging process. They are starting with the BIG questions. What is a disciple? How do people become disciples of Jesus Christ and grow in understanding of faithful living? What type of support do exploring and new believers need? What challenges do maturing Christians need? What will work best for a diverse group of people, spiritual mentors, bible study classes or small groups?

The group is studying and seeking agreement to these basic questions. Once they are clear about their purpose and goals, they will plan and train for intentional discipling that lives out the church's vision, opportunities for growing in the faith for all people.

If you are curious about adult faith formation or you have the spiritual gifts of teaching, wisdom or faith, contact Bob Fuchs or Karen Wagg.

Discipleship Team Building Strong Foundation

Brighton First has been in the practice of offering adult classes for decades. Many have grown deeper in faith and stronger in discipleship through intentional Bible study, as well as book studies and discussion groups. Those who have been part of classes have gained knowledge and community. I celebrate the hundreds of adults who have been changed by classes at Brighton First.

However, our Vital Church Initiative Consultation made us aware that we have opportunities for adult faith formation, we have neglected to be intentional in strengthening discipleship of those who attend Brighton First. Our classes have been helpful, but have been chosen, not with a specific goal in mind, but based on the interest of participants and the teachers.

The team working on Intentional Discipleship has been charged with creating a strategic disciple-strengthening plan for our church. Karen Wagg, chairperson for the team and Bob Fuchs, director of discipleship, are working with a committed group of people to ask basic questions and develop a program.

Karen Wagg and Bob Fuchs meet regularly
to review adult discipleship resources.

In most United Methodist Churches, the first question that is asked in this type of planning is "What classes will we offer in the fall?" That's the quick and easy way to plan out an adult faith formation curriculum. This Brighton First Discipleship Team has chosen a more challenging process. They are starting with the BIG questions. What is a disciple? How do people become disciples of Jesus Christ and grow in understanding of faithful living? What type of support do exploring and new believers need? What challenges do maturing Christians need? What will work best for a diverse group of people, spiritual mentors, bible study classes or small groups?

The group is studying and seeking agreement to these basic questions. Once they are clear about their purpose and goals, they will plan and train for intentional discipling that lives out the church's vision, opportunities for growing in the faith for all people.

If you are curious about adult faith formation or you have the spiritual gifts of teaching, wisdom or faith, contact Bob Fuchs or Karen Wagg.

Bob Fuchs Named as Director of Discipleship

Pastor Sherry interviews Bob Fuchs at his
introduction as Director of Discipleship

On behalf of the Staff-Parish Relations Committee, it is my pleasure to introduce Bob Fuchs, our new Director of Discipleship. Bob has been hired to this full-time position to lead our adult discipleship and hospitality ministries. He will team with Deacon Loretta and me in congregational care. Bob brings proven leadership skills, the ability to build teams and a passion for the church. Above all, Bob is a faithful man of God who has a heart for bringing others to faith in Jesus Christ.

Bob writes: I joined the Methodist Church the way many have, I married a lifelong Methodist, Sue LePatourel. We returned from the west side of the state and settled in Brighton in 1989. Brighton First has been our home since then. On any given Sunday, you can find us worshiping with four generations of LePatourels. Our two adult children, Brian and Katie grew up at Brighton First. Brian's children, Luke, Alli and Carson, are following in his footsteps.

One of Bob's spiritual
practices is praying during
his daily run.

You may recognize me from the front of the Sanctuary, serving as liturgist, worship host, or delivering the message. I have served on many committees, led mission teams through Appalachia Service Project, been involved in small group studies, brewed coffee, taught Sunday School, etc., etc.  After a successful 35 career in tax consulting, the Spirit has drawn me in a better direction.

I am blessed to be part of the staff at Brighton First and have been given the opportunity to share my spiritual gifts on a full-time basis. Although humor is not listed as a spiritual gift, it is one of my strengths; just ask me. I am rarely at a loss for words and love striking up a conversation with anyone who is nearby. For quiet, I find the solitude of running provides me with uninterrupted time to talk with Jesus.I look forward to continuing to learn and grow with Brighton First and the Brighton community.

Please keep Bob in prayer as he continues his ministry at Brighton First in this new role.

Bob Fuchs Named as Director of Discipleship

Pastor Sherry interviews Bob Fuchs at his
introduction as Director of Discipleship

On behalf of the Staff-Parish Relations Committee, it is my pleasure to introduce Bob Fuchs, our new Director of Discipleship. Bob has been hired to this full-time position to lead our adult discipleship and hospitality ministries. He will team with Deacon Loretta and me in congregational care. Bob brings proven leadership skills, the ability to build teams and a passion for the church. Above all, Bob is a faithful man of God who has a heart for bringing others to faith in Jesus Christ.

Bob writes: I joined the Methodist Church the way many have, I married a lifelong Methodist, Sue LePatourel. We returned from the west side of the state and settled in Brighton in 1989. Brighton First has been our home since then. On any given Sunday, you can find us worshiping with four generations of LePatourels. Our two adult children, Brian and Katie grew up at Brighton First. Brian's children, Luke, Alli and Carson, are following in his footsteps.

One of Bob's spiritual
practices is praying during
his daily run.

You may recognize me from the front of the Sanctuary, serving as liturgist, worship host, or delivering the message. I have served on many committees, led mission teams through Appalachia Service Project, been involved in small group studies, brewed coffee, taught Sunday School, etc., etc.  After a successful 35 career in tax consulting, the Spirit has drawn me in a better direction.

I am blessed to be part of the staff at Brighton First and have been given the opportunity to share my spiritual gifts on a full-time basis. Although humor is not listed as a spiritual gift, it is one of my strengths; just ask me. I am rarely at a loss for words and love striking up a conversation with anyone who is nearby. For quiet, I find the solitude of running provides me with uninterrupted time to talk with Jesus. I look forward to continuing to learn and grow with Brighton First and the Brighton community.

Please keep Bob in prayer as he continues his ministry at Brighton First in this new role.

Brighton First Preparing to Hire Three Staff Members

The Staff-Parish Relations Committee (the human resources committee) met on October 22 to discuss staffing needs at Brighton First. The committee has determined that three staff positions are needed and descriptions for those positions are now being developed.

First, Brighton First will be hiring a Director of Christian Education. The plan is for this position to be full-time. The person who takes this job will oversee our disciple development for both children and adults. This position has been created by the resignation of Children's Director Anne Walters and a voluntary reduction in hours by Rev. Loretta Job. It is the hope of the committee to have an employment notice posted by mid-November and a candidate hired for the position by January 1.

The congregation of Brighton First has directed the SPRC by their vote to accept the Vital Church Initiative Report to hire a worship leader for our third worship service. This person will develop a worship team of musicians and technicians and will lead worship at our 11:00 service. (Pastor Sherry will continue to preach at that service!). The position will be from 15 to 20 hours per week. The hope of the SPRC is to have this position posted in December and a candidate hired by mid-January. When a person is hired, he/she will work with the worship committee to determine a plan and timeline for developing a new model for the 11:00 worship service and launching it by December 2016.

The third position will combine a number of duties, including shared pastoral care responsibilities, teaching, worship design and preparation, as well as administrative work. While a title for this position has not been developed, the person in this role will function as an assistant to Pastor Sherry. The hope is to hire a candidate for this position in January.

Please keep this important work of the Staff-Parish Relations Committee in prayer.

Brighton First Preparing to Hire Three Staff Members

The Staff-Parish Relations Committee (the human resources committee) met on October 22 to discuss staffing needs at Brighton First. The committee has determined that three staff positions are needed and descriptions for those positions are now being developed.

First, Brighton First will be hiring a Director of Christian Education. The plan is for this position to be full-time. The person who takes this job will oversee our disciple development for both children and adults. This position has been created by the resignation of Children's Director Anne Walters and a voluntary reduction in hours by Rev. Loretta Job. It is the hope of the committee to have an employment notice posted by mid-November and a candidate hired for the position by January 1.

The congregation of Brighton First has directed the SPRC by their vote to accept the Vital Church Initiative Report to hire a worship leader for our third worship service. This person will develop a worship team of musicians and technicians and will lead worship at our 11:00 service. (Pastor Sherry will continue to preach at that service!). The position will be from 15 to 20 hours per week. The hope of the SPRC is to have this position posted in December and a candidate hired by mid-January. When a person is hired, he/she will work with the worship committee to determine a plan and timeline for developing a new model for the 11:00 worship service and launching it by December 2016.

The third position will combine a number of duties, including shared pastoral care responsibilities, teaching, worship design and preparation, as well as administrative work. While a title for this position has not been developed, the person in this role will function as an assistant to Pastor Sherry. The hope is to hire a candidate for this position in January.

Please keep this important work of the Staff-Parish Relations Committee in prayer.