As we wind closer to the end of the renovation project we’ll begin to reoccupy some of our spaces before we gain full access to the completed Worship Hall.  The library is moving upstairs into the opened up area outside the elevator, we’ll have some casual seating for small group gathering and open space for story times and plays by the kids.   We’re hoping this bright and welcoming space encourages people to curl up with a good book and be inspired for an afternoon.   Might also be a great place for some conversation with a cup of coffee for new and old friends.

Our offices are expecting windows this week which will check off one of the last items on our list before they are ready to occupy.  We hope those of you that had an opportunity to take a walk through the space found it welcoming and efficient to conduct the behind the scenes business of the church.   We’ll be placing furniture soon and begin the work to get our supplies located in all the new storage cubbies.  Flooring in the Lower Gathering space is being laid this week and should be ready for furniture, it’ll start to feel a lot like home again very soon!

We are planning a work day on Saturday, June 26 from 8am-noon, hoping to sort through the items we’ve had in storage in the gym for a year and get them cleaned and ready to place back in service.  Lots of dusty boxes to wipe off and open up again to rediscover our forgotten treasures!  If you have an hour or two to spare we’d love to see you there!

Join us Sunday, June 6th as we celebrate summer, COVID relaxation, and wish Pastor Steve good bye.

Bring your lawn chair or blanket.  We supply food and drinks.  You may bring your favorite dessert if you want.

Games and music for all!  Time to catch up with your church family.  We hope you can join us!

Stay tuned to our Facebook page for more information but here's what we know so far!

Walk through the construction area with Dave Garnett as your guide.  See how things are going and learn what these spaces will become.  You won't even get your shoes dusty watching this video!

Thanks to everyone that has supported the building project so far.  Things are really moving along fast now and it's great to see the results. 

Throughout the Covid-19 pandemic, all Nicaraguan government schools have remained open, despite the fears and anxieties that surround the virus.  Even with these added challenges, over 80% of primary school kids have been attending class as they did before the pandemic.  Those who are uncomfortable attending class in person are still being helped through special efforts by The Rainbow Network staff by distributing school supplies and other materials to assist with studying at home. 

Some of the most dedicated students are the high school scholarship students.  Nearly all of the scholars have been attending class in person, are maintaining excellent grades, and continue to tutor the younger primary students in the afternoon.  I’m so proud of our church in sponsoring a total 14 high school students. 

Dr. Will Moore has prepared a video of his visit to Nicaragua earlier this year in which he showcases many of the students we are sponsoring. Donations can be made through November 1 by either check made out to “Clinton UMC” with a notation of “Rainbow Network”.  You can also contribute online at www.clintonumc.net/give. 

Blessings to each of you,

Carolyn McAllister, Clinton UMC Outreach Committee Chairperson

Since 2018 Clinton UMC has partnered with the Rainbow Network to support the community of El Cobano in rural Nicaragua in the following ways:

            *Access to medical and dental clinics

            *Clothing and shoes for community members

            *Nutrition centers and food deliveries

            *Educational opportunities

            *School supplies, backpacks, and books for primary students          

            *Education about health, sanitation, nutrition, first aid, etc.

            *Empowerment and love through a strong relationship.

All of this is made possible by our congregation’s 3-year commitment of $20,000 a year to support the people of El Cobano. In this third year of that commitment, $10,000 has been funded so far. Through November 1, we’re asking for your help to raise the final $10,000. 

This video features Dr. Will Moore, a member of the Rainbow Network board and son-in-law of Mike and Lois Miller of our congregation. He shares about the Rainbow Network’s ministry and his commitment to it. I encourage you to listen to his powerful message! We’ll share updates on our El Cobano partnership in upcoming weeks. Learn more about the Rainbow Network at www.RainbowNetwork.org. 

Please prayerfully consider helping us reach our 2020 goal during this special offering opportunity that ends November 1. Make checks out to “Clinton UMC” with a notation of “Rainbow Network.” You can also contribute online at www.clintonumc.net/give.   

Blessings to you all,

Carolyn McAllister

Clinton UMC Outreach Committee Chairperson

Base for the new Worship Hall has been excavated and the rock fill is being installed and compacted.  Footings for the structural support walls and posts will be dug and concrete poured shortly.   Interior sheetrock will be installed to finish out the second floor hallway transition to the new south stairwell and all the fire doors hung over the next several days.  Immediately following that completion we’ll demolish the old stairwell and start with cutting the floor for new drain line locations… moving with steady pace now!