Monthly Newsletter

Dear brothers and sisters in Christ,

As we prepared this month’s newsletter, I was reminded again of the many ways God’s grace shapes our gifts and talents into living expressions of Christ’s love. Each photo tells a story of transformation and testifies that when we follow God’s leading, amazing things happen.

On October 5, we will begin a new worship series and stewardship campaign called Transformed by Grace. Grace is more than a gift—it is God’s invitation into a relationship that changes lives and carries the power to transform the world. Inspired by John Wesley’s teachings, we will explore stories of transformation, connect them with our daily experiences, watch for God’s presence in unexpected places, and celebrate the surprising ways God shows up in our lives.

This four-week series will also anchor our annual stewardship campaign. Together, we will reflect on how our prayers, presence, gifts, service, and witness are vital to God’s mission through our congregation. As we offer our financial support, prayers, time, and talents, we strengthen CCUMC together as a beacon of grace and generosity—extending Love First within our church family and far beyond its walls.

Here are three ways you can join in this season of hope and celebration:

• Invite a friend to worship and be inspired by stories of God’s transforming grace.
• Take part in our “State of the Church” gathering after worship on October 19, as we praise God for all He has done this past year and discern how we will step even more boldly into our Love First vision as we carry God’s mission forward into 2026.
• Prayerfully consider your commitment to support CCUMC’s ministries through your financial gifts, unique talents, abilities, time, and prayer.  Watch your mailbox for more information.  

As we lean into God’s call to Love First, may we open ourselves fully to grace—the kind of grace that transforms people, communities, and the world. 

I am grateful to share this journey with you and eager to see how God will move among us.

With hope and courage,

Pastor Christi

On Sunday, September 28, we came together as a church family to honor and celebrate the remarkable legacy of Barb Siler, who is retiring after an incredible 61 years of service as our beloved organist.

Barb’s extraordinary musical talent and unwavering heart for worship have been a blessing to countless people over the years. Week after week, she has filled our sanctuary with music that has lifted our spirits, deepened our prayers, inspired our faith, and encouraged our hearts. Her ministry through music has been an integral part of our worship experience and a beautiful expression of God’s presence among us.

Barb’s willingness to share her God-given gift so faithfully and generously is a testimony to her deep love for God and for this community. Her quiet dedication, her comforting presence, and the beauty she brought to each service will be missed more than words can express.

We pray that this next chapter of her life will be filled with rest, joy, and new adventures—a well-earned season of renewal and blessing.

Congratulations, Barb—and thank you. Your music will echo in our hearts for years to come.

Cool breezes, changing leaves, and the joy of being together — Fall in our town always feels special. First Fridays are a wonderful chance to slow down, meet new faces, and share Jesus’ love in simple, meaningful ways.

In October, First Friday will celebrate “Fall in Love with Downtown.” Come by the CCUMC booth to say hello, connect with neighbors, and see Christ’s love at work in our community.

• All Saints Sunday, November 2 — opportunity to remember any loved ones who have passed away this year.
• New Member Class — November 2-23, after church each Sunday.
• Walking Track — Beginning November 3, the upstairs will be open for walkers Monday-Thursday, 9:00am - 12:00pm.

• Prime Time Players Book study “Soul Unfinished: Finding Happiness, Taking Risks, Trusting God as we Grow Older” beginning Sept 21 at 8:45 am, room 211.
• Inductive Bible Study Group will begin 2 Thessalonians on Sept 14 and 1 Timothy on October 5, at 9 am in the Hearth Room, off the main lobby upstairs.
• Flock Group Book study “When You’re a Christian, the Whole World is From Missouri: Living a Life of Faith in a ‘Show Me’ World.”  Begins Sept. 21 at 8:45 am, room 201.
• Monday Morning Women’s Bible Study Group, 10:00 in the library.
• Once a month on the second Tuesday at 1:30 in the library, Women’s Bible Study – N.T. Wright, Surprised by Hope

Birthdays

Connie Curry — 3

Carl Siler — 3

Mark Webber — 3

Erin Devito — 4 

Chris Buchanan — 5

John Snyder — 5

Barbara Bilger — 6

Reisa Snyder — 7

Barbara Siler — 7

Carol Elsworth — 9

Charles Roberts — 13

Brenda Shearer — 14

Natalie Harker — 17

Shron Richey — 19

Naomi Hovenen-Simmons — 26

Sandra Fisher — 27

Leah Myer — 30

Shron Richey — 19

Teresa Wright — 30

Anniversaries 

Mark and Joyce Beck — 2

Bret and Tammy Taylor — 3

Ron and Julia Berry — 10

Carrie and Jeremy Meyer — 14

Charles and Maxine Roberts — 14

Evan and Brianna Fudge — 19

Mark and Patricia Pequignot — 24

Donald and Sharon — 28

Mike and Debbie Minier — 30

Oak Pointe:  Francis Bundy, Dee Green, Harrison & Natalie Harker, Barbara Gillman

The Oaks:  Bette Reed, Elaine Beard, Sandra Fisher (rehab)

Byron Health Center:  April Snyder

Ossian Health & Rehabilitation: Jill Chapman

Autumn Trace: Evelyn Stemen, Karen Bucher

Homebound:  Ron Reed, Donna Toole, Florence Linn, Louise Walter, Barb Bilger (cards only), and Betty Mosher (cards only)

Pastor’s Report

Pastor Christi provided an update from the nominations committee for the church council membership and roles. Members retiring at the end of 2025 include Mike Copp, Greg Lawson, Danielle Oliver, and Robin Wright. The nominations committee recommended the following people to join the council in January 2026, John Kleiman (at-large member), Nathan Lundy (at-large member and endowment committee representative), Ron Richey (Treasurer), and Brendy Marty (Council Secretary).  Recommended changes in council members’ roles include Wendy Meyer as Finance Chair and Carl Siler to become the Trustee Chair. There will be a total of 10 members. 

The group reviewed proposed changes to the Safe Sanctuary Document to remove references to the ELC and to revise the screening procedures section so that all paid and volunteer staff shall be properly screened including a background check. 

Doug Anderson will serve as a consultant for the Columbia City UMC until the end of the year. The cost will be paid for by the United Methodist Church organization. 

Pastor Christi provided an update on her two conference roles. She is part of a team to lobby for legislation to increase voting writes on constitutional amendments for licensed local pastors. Pastor Christi also serves as a member of the district committee on ministry which helps to raise up and equip new pastors and lay leaders. 

Pastor Christi will be out of the office September 28 – October 5 for a week of spiritual renewal.

Other Discussion Items

October 19 – State of the Church meeting will be held after the Sunday Service; the District Charge Conference is at 2:00 pm in Fort Wayne.

October 26 – Celebration Sunday during service (pledges) and Coffee with the Council after the service.

The council discussed formation of a task force to create the Procedure/Policy document for the new Preschool Board. 

Finance Report

Church income for August was $33,080 and monthly expenses were $61,197 for a net operating revenue of -$28,182. Building costs were high for August (maintenance and utilities). There were three pay periods for salaries in August. The group discussed exploring options to improve church financials. 

Trustee Report

Some of the old playground equipment will be moved in preparation for installation of new playground equipment funded by the $20,000 grant. A banister will be installed for the stairs to the stage. A work day will be scheduled for October 18.

(260) 244-7671 • www.columbiacityumc.org
605 Forest Parkway Columbia City, IN 46725

Christi Murray, Pastor — christi.murray@columbiacityumc.org

Tammy Taylor, Director of Administration and Discipleship — tammy.taylor@columbiacityumc.org

Ashley Bailey, Communications Specialist — ashley.bailey@columbiacityumc.org

Gary Shanklin, Bookkeeper – Shanklin.gary@gmail.com