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MAY 2026 |
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THE CROWS NEST |
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SPRINGDALE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH MONTHLY NEWSLETTER |
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INSIDE THIS MONTH'S ISSUE |
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Rebecca's Reflections A Note from the Administrative Board Upcoming Events May Worship May Invites Us to Keep Going West Branch Food Pantry & Clothes Closet WND Family Faith Night VBS Faith & Family Night Conference & Circuit News Ad Board Minutes SUMC 2026 and Beyond Ministry Planning |
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BIRTHDAYS |
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3 - Ken Phillips 3- James Stout 8 - Leila Mayhew 9 - Molly Haub 10 - Tom Miller 11 - Annie Reynolds 13 - Sheryl Bergmann 13 - Jackie Callahan 13 - Joel Carver 15 - Tori Vikel 16 - Ray Hartz 17 - Teagyn Hartz 18 - Jenna Maxson 21 - Hanna Haub 21 - Shelby Hauub 22 - Brady Edge 22 - Dalton Vikel 24 - Evan Farmer 25 - Eric Fletcher 27 - Pattie Edge 31 - Rob Bergmann 31 - Renee Lindberg 31 - Sophia Martin |
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ANNIVERSARIES |
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7 - Josh & Katie Sabourin (21) 25 - Phil & Rebecca Carver (41) 28 - Troy & Jennifer Shanker (4) 31 - James & Deb Schoenfelder (29) |
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SUMC'S MISSION, VISION & VALUES |
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Mission We exist as a church to make disciples, bringing persons to Jesus Christ and to Christ's community.
Vision *The Church bulges with attendance; Babies cry in the back pew; and Cheerios can be found on the floor. *Many people get their hands dirty serving God's church and God's children. *Persons of all ages regularly meet together in every nook and cranny for spiritual support and nurturing. *Congregations gives joyfully.
Values *Everything we do is based on our worth as God's children and seeing that in others. *We use all we have and are to serve God and God's people. *We believe in joy, content to give thanks to the Lord in all things even through tough times of darkness.
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REBECCA'S REFLECTIONS |
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What a glorious Palm Sunday we had here at Springdale. With our guide, Eeyore the donkey, leading us, we walked the street in front of the church with our palm branches. Worship was a great joy with lots of special music and special guests. What a joy to see Rhoda and to hear the organ and piano played together! Thanks to everyone for a great morning, especially Tracey and family (and Eeyore). Easter Sunday, too, was a great day with a wonderful sunrise service and breakfast. It was a great way to start our Easter Season.
The Christian year is filled with seasons, beginning with Advent and continuing through Kingdomtide/Ordinary Time. While we think of seasons like Christmas and Easter as single days, both have seasons lasting for multiple weeks. Here then, is a short synopsis of the Christian year and the colors that are associated with each.
Advent begins our year. It is the four Sundays prior to Christmas Eve, often beginning the last Sunday of November or first Sunday in December. The color of Advent is either purple or blue. The advent candles are often three purple and one pink, signifying on the third Sunday, the joy of the season.
Christmas Eve and the Christmas season are the color white. The Christmas season is typically one or two Sundays, depending on when Epiphany is celebrated.
Epiphany, the arrival of the Magi, is celebrated on January 6th or the Sunday closest to that date. The color of Epiphany is white, the season that follows is green. The Epiphany season is the Sundays between Epiphany and Ash Wednesday, the beginning of Lent.
The Lenten season is a time of penitence and reflection. Its color is purple and the season is five weeks long or 40 days plus 5 Sundays. At the end of Lent is Palm Sunday and Holy Week. While the color for Maundy Thursday is purple, the color for Good Friday traditionally is black. It is our reminder of Christ’s sacrifice for us on the cross.
Easter arrives with the color white. The Easter season continues from Easter Sunday to Pentecost, a period of about 5 weeks. On Pentecost, the color shifts to red, as we celebrate the birthday of the church. This year, Pentecost is on May 24th and all are invited to wear red to celebrate.
The Pentecost season is short, only a few Sundays and churches can decide when to change colors. For the rest of the year until Advent, the color is green. I personally like to keep the color red into July just for some variety.
There are many other nuances throughout the year like Transfiguration and Christ the King. Each has a special significance in the life of the church and in the story of our savior, Jesus Christ. During each season, we learn of the life, ministry, death, resurrection, birth, and growth of the church as we read through the scriptures related to each.
May we continue to learn together as we experience each season of the year.
Rebecca |
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A NOTE FROM THE ADMINISTRATIVE BOARD |
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We want to begin by saying thank you—to those who read our newsletter, stay informed, and take the time to share their thoughts with us. It means a great deal to know that people are engaged in the life of the church and care deeply about its direction. Your voices matter, and we truly appreciate your input.
Recently, there has been some conversation about the possibility of locking the church building. We want to offer reassurance and clarity: there are no plans to lock the church. We understand how meaningful it is to have a place that feels open, peaceful, and welcoming, and we remain committed to preserving that spirit.
At the same time, we are working to be good stewards of the building we share. We have experienced ongoing concerns such as lights being left on and doors not being fully closed or secured, which impacts both safety and utility costs. In response, we are taking some practical steps, including the installation of cameras, to help us better care for the church while still keeping it accessible.
As part of this effort, security cameras will be installed at each entry point and in other locations as deemed necessary for safety and building stewardship. We want to be clear that this decision has not been made lightly. Like many churches and organizations, we have had to thoughtfully adjust our practices over time in response to ongoing concerns and the realities of caring for a shared space. The addition of cameras is not intended to be punitive or reactive, but rather a measured and responsible step toward maintaining a safe, welcoming, and well-cared-for environment for all who use the building. These cameras will not record audio, and there will not be someone monitoring them at all times. Instead, video will be securely stored and reviewed if an incident occurs that requires our attention. The purpose of this step is not to intrude, but to help ensure the building is used safely and responsibly for everyone.
Lastly, we want to encourage open and thoughtful communication. When questions or concerns arise, we genuinely want to engage in meaningful conversation—not just quick exchanges. Reaching out to a board member directly, scheduling time to talk, or contacting the church office allows us to listen carefully, gather any needed information, and respond in a way that is clear and respectful. We know that concerns often come from a place of care and investment in the church, and those conversations deserve time and attention. Brief interactions just before worship or during the service can make it difficult to fully hear one another or provide thoughtful responses, and we want to honor both the importance of worship and the importance of your voice by making space for both.
These conversations are not about changing who we are—they are about sustaining the ministry we’ve been entrusted with. We continue to strive to be a church with open hearts, open doors, and a place where all feel welcome.
We are grateful for a congregation and community that cares enough to ask questions, share concerns, and remain involved. If you ever have thoughts or would like to talk further, we encourage you to reach out.
Thank you for being part of this church family. |
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UPCOMING EVENTS |
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MAY WORSHIP |
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Theme for the Month: Children of God
May 3 5th Sunday of Easter, Communion, Steven preaching Scripture: Luke 24:13-35 Sermon: “Taken for Granted”
May 10 Scripture: Acts 17:22-31 Sermon: "Beloved Offspring"
May 17 Sermon: Humble
May 24 Scripture: Acts 2:1-21; John 7:37-39 Sermon: Believer's Heart
May 31 Trinity Sunday, 5th Sunday Hymn Sing Scripture: 2 Corinthians 13:11-13; Matthew 28:16-20 Sermon: Greetings |
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SONG OF THE MONTH |
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MAY INVITES US TO KEEP GOING |
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After the celebration of Easter and the intentional follow-up of April, May is where faith becomes steady, rooted, and visible in everyday life. The excitement of big moments begins to settle — and what remains is something just as important: consistency.
As United Methodists, we understand that discipleship is not built in a single season. It is formed over time through relationships, habits, and a shared commitment to walk alongside one another.
Easter may be the spark — but May is where the flame is tended.
From Connection to Community In April, we focused on reconnecting and building relationships. In May, we deepen them.
This is the month to move from knowing names to knowing stories.
We are invited to ask:
Community doesn’t happen by accident. It grows when people are intentionally seen, included, and invited into something deeper.
Creating Spaces to Belong As a congregation committed to Outreach, Mission, and Evangelism, May is a time to cultivate belonging:
Sometimes the most powerful form of evangelism is simply helping someone feel like they belong.
Faith That Grows Over Time Growth in faith often looks quiet and gradual.
It’s showing up to worship even on ordinary Sundays.
This is the work of “social holiness” — growing in Christ together, not alone.
When we commit to steady presence, we create a church where people don’t just visit… they stay.
Family Focus: Growing Faith in Everyday Moments May is a natural time for families to lean into rhythms that nurture faith as the school year winds down and summer approaches.
Try these simple practices:
Children learn that faith is not just about special days — it’s something that grows with them.
A Season to Stay Rooted May reminds us that meaningful ministry is not only about new beginnings — it’s about staying present.
When we continue to welcome, connect, and include, we reflect the steady love of Christ.
Our community is not just looking for a place to visit.
And through small, faithful steps, we are becoming that place.
As we move through May, may we remain rooted in Christ, committed to one another, and open to the ways God continues to grow something beautiful among us.
Paula Rogers COME Chair |
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WB FOOD PANTRY AND CLOTHES CLOSET DONATIONS |
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May Deodorant, Shampoo, Body Wash, etc.
June Swim Diapers, Sun Screen, Aloe New or Gently Used Swim Goggles and Swimsuits (infants to adult)
July Freeze Pops (the liquid ones) August School Home Lunch Items (Peanut Butter, Jelly, Chips, Juice, Etc.) New or Gently Used Shoes and Socks (infants to adult) |
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*SUMC hasdonated 77.8 pounds of food to the pantry through the end of March. |
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For I was hungry and you gave me food, Matthew 25:35 |
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WEDNESDAY NIGHT DISCIPLESHIP |
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Thank you to everyone who helped make Wednesday Night Discipleship possible this year. From teaching classes to serving meals, your contributions made a meaningful difference. WBUMC will be recognizing all of the WND teachers and volunteers during their worship on May 17th. |
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WE NEED YOU! During the month of May, we'll be taking donations for Vacation Bible School. Opportunities include monetary donations and a sign up to bring items for snacks. Please keep your eyes peeled for signs of the rain forest for more information on how to give and how to volunteer. |
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CONFERENCE, DISTRICT AND CIRCUIT NEWS |
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Iowa Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church will be held June 11-14 in West Des Moines. Steven Grace and Rev. Rebecca will be attending from our congregation. Our worship team is working to fill the pulpit on June 14th. |
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Rylee Grace has been selected to attend the 2026 Simpson Youth Leadership Academy, June 20-28. She is one of 25 students from congregations throughout the Midwest who will be attending this Academy. Please keep Rylee, her parents, Steven and Jessica, and all the instructors and attendees in your prayers. We will have a special sending off blessing during worship on June 7. Congratulations, Rylee, for being selected for this honor - we know you will represent Springdale UMC well and bring back lots of great skills to share with the congregation! |
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DVD DONATIONS. This summer, pastor Alyssa Nantt from the Washington United Methodist Church, will be traveling out West to visit her friend and former colleague, Pastor Gail Hoyt, of the the BUMP mission in north central Montana. Pastor Hoyt started three sober living groups at the mission and her groups gather to encourage one another and to make Native American craft items. While they craft, they enjoy watching DVDs of Christian programs and movies. Washington UMC is donating a DVD set of The Chosen and Women of the Bible to the mission but they are also looking to collect additional DVDs (no BluRay or 4k) to gift to them. If you have DVDs you would like to donate to this mission, please bring them to the church no later than June 7. |
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AD BOARD MINUTES |
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Springdale UMC Leadership Board meeting—April 27, 2026 Full Leadership Board: 6 p.m. Attendance: Rebecca, Steven, Julie, Jessica G., Steven, and Paula
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SUMC 2026 AND BEYOND MINISTRY GOALS AND PLANNING |
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Goal |
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Key Action Steps |
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Timeline |
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Resources Needed |
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Increase outreach |
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Identify at least 3 community events for presence or sponsorship; develop simple materials; set up volunteer sign-ups |
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Ongoing |
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Flyers; social media posts; volunteer schedule |
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Increase family attendance |
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Host family-friendly worship & outreach events quarterly (e.g. picnic, mini-VBS, outdoor service) |
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Ongoing |
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Family-friendly activities; food budget |
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Show appreciation for current attendees |
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Create quarterly recognition Sundays (e.g. "Birthday Sunday"); thank-you notes |
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Ongoing |
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Cards, refreshments |
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Organize and store church photos |
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Gather photos; assign a small group to organize photos and develop a storing system (digital and/or physical) |
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Q2 2026 |
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Photo boxes and/or scanner |
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ADA Building |
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Finalize accessibility plan; obtain bids; research grant opportunities |
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Q1 2026 |
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Contractor bids and grant research |
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Grow worship attendance by 5% each year |
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Track attendance; launch invite campaign; feature personal testimonials on social media |
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Ongoing |
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Data tracking sheet; social media posts |
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Separate praise/worship time |
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Pilot an alternative or contemporary service once per month |
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Q2 2026 |
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Committee |
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Outdoor worship/picnic |
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Schedule at park or church lawn; plan lunch & music |
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Summer/Fall 2026 |
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Committee |
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Bi-Annual Bible/Book Study |
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Identify a study |
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Q1 & Q3 2026 |
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Curriculum/book; identify a study leader |
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Lenten Devotional Book |
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Collect devotions from members; publish by Lent. |
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Q1 2026 |
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Printing or digital platform |
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Bless the Animals Sunday |
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Select date; promote |
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Fall 2026 |
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Marketing, supplies |
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Christmas Caroling |
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Organize routes and songbooks |
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December 2026 |
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Committee |
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Weekly blog devotions |
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Create schedule of authors; make weekly posts |
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Q1-Q4 2026 |
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Website access |
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Update Church Directory |
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Collect info/photos; publish printed & digital copy |
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Q4 2026 |
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Camera; printing; design |
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Worship at Little Bear |
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Contact campground; schedule annual summer service |
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Annually through 2027 |
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Volunteer; bulletins; sound system |
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Mission day to Matthew 25 (CR) |
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Coordinate service team |
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Annually through 2027 |
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Volunteers |
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Engage with local celebrations |
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Participate in at least 2 community festivals each year |
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Ongoing |
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Volunteers; identify celebrations |
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Better utilize west wing & closet |
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Inventory space; create multipurpose plan (storage ministry use) |
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Q2 2026 |
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Volunteer |
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Church-wide clean-up/purge |
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Annual spring cleaning day |
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Q2 each year |
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Create cleaning list and recruit volunteers |
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Grow connections within circuit |
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Host or join shared worship/mission events |
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Ongoing |
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Identify opportunities |
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Weekend Retreat (Youth and/or adult) |
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Plan small retreat at local camp |
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2026-2027 |
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Identify programming; location; date; promote |
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Rebuild youth programming |
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Recruit 2 volunteers; plan quarterly youth events and/or Sunday programming |
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Q2 2026 |
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Volunteers; curriculum |
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155th Anniversary Celebration |
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Form committee at least 1 year in advance; plan worship; meal; and community event |
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2029 |
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Committee formed by 2028 |
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Revised Yule Buffet |
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Refresh menu & decor; invite community |
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Annually beginning 2028-2030 |
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Committee |
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ADA Building (completion) |
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Finish all accessibility upgrades |
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2028-2030 |
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Committee |
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Increase pastoral support (1/2 to full-time) |
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Stewardship campaign; reassess budget & needs |
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2027-2029 |
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Assessments |
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Long-term stewardship study |
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Implement multi-week giving & vision series |
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2026-2028 |
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Committee |
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Upgrade/update Kitchen |
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Assess needs, fundraise, and complete renovation |
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2027-2029 |
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Committee |
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Seal Time Capsule |
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Identify items to include |
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Q1 2026 |
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Announcement as to date |
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Sew personal dignity kits for Midwest Mission |
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Recruit sewers or those willing to learn |
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Q2 2026 |
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Machines, sewing materials |