Hey everyone! Welcome to the latest edition of the OSC Posibilism UMC Newsletter. We're super excited to share all the happenings, insights, and opportunities within our community. Get ready for an engaging read packed with everything you need to stay in the loop!

What is OSC Posibilism UMC?

Before we dive into the nitty-gritty, let's quickly recap what OSC Posibilism UMC is all about. OSC Posibilism UMC stands for something truly unique within the University Methodist Church (UMC) context. It’s a philosophy and approach centered around the idea that positive change and progress are always possible, regardless of the challenges we face. It emphasizes a proactive, optimistic, and collaborative spirit within the UMC community.

At its core, OSC Posibilism is about fostering an environment where innovative ideas are welcomed, and members are empowered to take initiative. It's about looking at problems not as roadblocks, but as opportunities for creative solutions and growth. Within the UMC, this translates into a vibrant and dynamic community that’s constantly evolving to meet the needs of its members and the wider world. This positive outlook encourages members to actively participate in church activities, community service, and personal development, driving a continuous cycle of improvement and engagement.

This concept isn't just a passive belief; it's an active mindset. It means approaching every challenge with a can-do attitude, seeking out innovative solutions, and fostering collaboration among members. It's about empowering individuals to take initiative and make a tangible difference, no matter how small. In practice, this looks like encouraging open discussions, supporting new projects and initiatives, and celebrating successes to reinforce a culture of optimism and possibility.

The impact of OSC Posibilism extends beyond the church walls. By instilling a sense of hope and empowerment, it encourages members to carry these values into their daily lives, influencing their interactions with family, friends, and the broader community. This ripple effect can lead to more compassionate, understanding, and proactive citizens who are committed to making a positive impact on the world around them. Ultimately, OSC Posibilism serves as a guiding principle that shapes the UMC into a forward-thinking, inclusive, and empowering community, ready to embrace the future with optimism and determination.

Recent Events and Highlights

Stay updated to recent happenings! Our community has been buzzing with activity lately. Here’s a quick rundown of some recent events and highlights that you might have missed:

Community Outreach Program

Our Community Outreach Program has been making significant strides in supporting local families in need. This month, we organized a food drive that collected over 500 pounds of non-perishable items. A big thank you to everyone who contributed! These donations have been distributed to local food banks, providing much-needed assistance to families struggling with food insecurity. Beyond food drives, the program has also initiated a mentorship initiative pairing UMC members with young individuals in the community, offering guidance and support to help them achieve their educational and career goals.

The success of the Community Outreach Program is a testament to the dedication and compassion of our volunteers. Their tireless efforts have not only provided essential resources but have also fostered a sense of connection and solidarity within our community. Looking ahead, the program plans to expand its reach by partnering with local schools and organizations to address other critical needs, such as providing access to healthcare and educational resources. These collaborative efforts will further strengthen the program's impact and create a more supportive and equitable environment for all.

The Community Outreach Program also hosts regular workshops and seminars on topics ranging from financial literacy to parenting skills, empowering community members with the knowledge and tools they need to thrive. These initiatives are designed to be inclusive and accessible, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to participate and benefit from the program's resources. By addressing the root causes of poverty and inequality, the Community Outreach Program is working to create lasting positive change in our community, one individual and one family at a time.

Youth Group Activities

The Youth Group has been on fire with exciting activities! From camping trips to volunteer projects, our young members have been actively engaged in meaningful experiences. Recently, they organized a car wash to raise funds for their upcoming summer mission trip. Their enthusiasm and dedication are truly inspiring as they actively raised awareness about environmental conservation and organized a local park cleanup. The youth are planning an interfaith dialogue with a neighboring synagogue's youth group, fostering understanding and respect between different religious communities.

The Youth Group's activities are carefully designed to promote personal growth, leadership development, and social responsibility. Through team-building exercises and collaborative projects, young members learn to work together, communicate effectively, and solve problems creatively. They are also encouraged to explore their faith and values, developing a strong sense of identity and purpose. By providing a safe and supportive environment, the Youth Group empowers young people to become confident, compassionate, and engaged citizens who are committed to making a positive impact on the world.

Furthermore, the Youth Group is actively involved in advocating for issues that matter to them, such as climate change and social justice. They participate in rallies, write letters to elected officials, and organize educational campaigns to raise awareness about these important topics. By giving young people a voice and a platform to express their concerns, the Youth Group empowers them to become agents of change and to shape the future they want to see. Through these diverse and engaging activities, the Youth Group is nurturing the next generation of leaders and equipping them with the skills and values they need to thrive in an ever-changing world.

Sunday Services

Our Sunday services have been particularly uplifting lately, with inspiring sermons and beautiful music. We’ve seen an increase in attendance, and many new faces have joined our congregation. The sense of community is stronger than ever. One recent service focused on themes of forgiveness and reconciliation, encouraging attendees to reflect on their relationships and seek opportunities for healing and restoration. The service featured personal testimonies from members of the congregation who shared their experiences of overcoming challenges and finding hope in their faith.

In addition to the inspiring sermons, our Sunday services also offer a variety of opportunities for fellowship and connection. Before and after the service, attendees can enjoy coffee and refreshments while chatting with friends and neighbors. We also offer a range of small group activities, such as Bible studies and prayer groups, where people can deepen their faith and build relationships with others who share their values. These opportunities for connection are essential for fostering a sense of belonging and community within our congregation.

Moreover, our Sunday services are intentionally designed to be inclusive and welcoming to people of all backgrounds and beliefs. We strive to create a space where everyone feels comfortable and accepted, regardless of their age, race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, or socioeconomic status. Our services feature a diverse range of musical styles and worship traditions, reflecting the richness and diversity of our congregation. By creating a welcoming and inclusive environment, we hope to make our Sunday services a source of inspiration, comfort, and connection for all who attend.

Upcoming Events

Looking ahead, we have some exciting events on the horizon. Mark your calendars!

Volunteer Day at the Local Shelter

Date: July 15th, 2024 Time: 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM Description: Join us as we spend the morning volunteering at the local animal shelter. We’ll be helping with cleaning, feeding, and caring for the animals. It's a great way to give back to our furry friends and support a worthy cause. Plus, you might just find your new best friend! Volunteers will assist with tasks such as cleaning kennels, walking dogs, and socializing with cats. The event aims to provide much-needed support to the shelter staff and create a more comfortable environment for the animals in their care.

Summer Picnic

Date: August 5th, 2024 Time: 12:00 PM - 3:00 PM Location: Central Park Description: Let's celebrate summer together with a fun-filled picnic in the park! Bring your favorite dish to share, and enjoy games, music, and good company. It's the perfect opportunity to relax, connect with friends, and soak up the sunshine. Don't forget your sunscreen! The picnic will feature a variety of activities for all ages, including lawn games, face painting, and a live music performance. Attendees are encouraged to bring blankets and chairs for seating, as well as any outdoor games they would like to share.

Back-to-School Supply Drive

Dates: August 10th - August 25th, 2024 Description: Help us support local students by donating school supplies. We're collecting backpacks, notebooks, pencils, and other essentials to ensure that every child has the tools they need to succeed in the upcoming school year. Drop off your donations at the church office during business hours. Your generosity can make a big difference! The supply drive aims to alleviate the financial burden on families who may struggle to afford school supplies for their children. Donations will be distributed to students in need through local schools and community organizations.

Member Spotlight

This month, we're shining a spotlight on one of our amazing members, Sarah Johnson. Sarah has been an active member of our community for over 10 years and has consistently demonstrated a passion for service and a commitment to making a difference. Her dedication is truly inspiring.

Sarah volunteers regularly at the local soup kitchen, where she helps prepare and serve meals to those in need. She also leads a weekly Bible study group for young adults, providing guidance and support to help them navigate the challenges of life. In addition to her volunteer work, Sarah is also a talented musician and sings in the church choir. Her beautiful voice adds a special touch to our Sunday services and inspires us all.

When asked about her involvement in the community, Sarah says that she finds joy and fulfillment in serving others. She believes that everyone has something to offer and that by working together, we can create a better world for all. Sarah's words are a testament to her compassionate heart and her unwavering commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of others. We are incredibly grateful to have Sarah as a member of our community and are inspired by her example of selfless service.

Get Involved

Want to get more involved with OSC Posibilism UMC? There are plenty of ways to contribute!

Join a Committee

We have various committees that focus on different aspects of our community, from outreach and education to finance and worship. Joining a committee is a great way to share your skills and talents and help shape the direction of our community. Each committee plays a vital role in ensuring the smooth operation and continued growth of our organization. Whether you have a passion for event planning, fundraising, or community engagement, there's a committee that's perfect for you.

Volunteer Your Time

Whether it's helping out at events, tutoring students, or visiting the elderly, your time and energy can make a significant impact. We offer a wide range of volunteer opportunities to suit your interests and availability. Volunteering is a rewarding way to give back to the community, meet new people, and make a difference in the lives of others. Your contribution, no matter how small, can have a profound effect on those in need.

Share Your Ideas

We're always looking for new and innovative ideas to improve our community and better serve our members. Don't hesitate to share your thoughts and suggestions with us. We value your input and believe that everyone has something valuable to contribute. Whether you have a suggestion for a new program, an idea for a fundraising event, or a way to improve our communication, we want to hear from you. Together, we can create a more vibrant and inclusive community for all.

Stay Connected

Make sure you're always in the know by staying connected with us!

Website

Visit our website at www.oscposibilismumc.org for the latest news, events, and resources.

Social Media

Follow us on social media for updates, photos, and behind-the-scenes glimpses of our community.

• Facebook: OSCPosibilismUMC
• Twitter: @OSC_UMC
• Instagram: @oscposibilismumc

Newsletter Subscription

Subscribe to our newsletter to receive regular updates directly in your inbox. Simply visit our website and sign up. Don't miss out! By subscribing, you'll be the first to know about upcoming events, volunteer opportunities, and important announcements.

Final Thoughts

Thanks for tuning in to this edition of the OSC Posibilism UMC Newsletter! We hope you found it informative and inspiring. Remember, together, we can make a positive difference in our community and the world. Stay positive, stay engaged, and stay connected! We look forward to seeing you at our next event! Keep the faith, and keep spreading positivity!