The February 2015 newsletter from the First United Methodist Church of North Hollywood outlines various church activities including a multi-cultural potluck, a Lenten Bible study, and community service initiatives. Pastor Joey reflects on the theme of conversion through the story of Jesus healing a leper, emphasizing the importance of belonging and faith. Additional highlights include ongoing missions to support the homeless, and a call for donations to assist with local missions in Louisiana.

1. First United Methodist Church of North Hollywood
GOOD NEWS
e-mail: nohofumc@pacbell.net
FEBRUARY 2015
facebook.com/nohofumc1 www.nohofumc.com
IN THIS ISSUE:
• Update from SPRC
• MM Waffle Breakfast
• Multi-Cultural Potluck
• Ash Wednesday Service
• Give Back During Lent
A NOTE FROM PASTOR JOEY
Any of us who have studied higher math (or at least attempted) know that
knowledge of conversion is essential. Without an understanding of
formulaic expression this field of study becomes laborious and quite
frustrating. Anyone who has traveled can recall at least one strange
experience where attempts to convert currency was neither easy nor
fruitful. We now live in this wonderful age where we are converting our
televisions from analog to digital signals. I haven’t a clue what this means
except that from what I have read it is supposed to be a good thing. The
word conversion has a variety of meanings. The first listing in my
Merriam Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary says, “The act of converting: the
process of being converted - compare gene conversion” The second listing
reads, “An experience associated with a definite and decisive adoption of
religion.”
In Mark 1:40-45 we find a type of conversion. We would be quick to say it
is purely a religious experience, however, it seems to be so much more. A
leper comes to Jesus and begs to be healed, saying “If you choose, you can
make me clean.” Jesus is moved to heal the man, but issues instructions to
obey the Law of Moses regarding healing which required going to the
chief priest before talking to anyone and receiving a blessing and ritual
cleansing. The leper ignores Jesus’ instructions, instead telling all about his
healing. Jesus knew there were a variety of professional prophets and
healers in the region, but he saw himself not as part of a traveling
medicine show, but as an agent of God linked to an historic faith, hence
the instructions to see the priest. We are not told whether the leper is a
person of faith. Clearly, Jesus linked faith with the process of being healed.
The conversion which takes place in this story is multilayered. From a
math standpoint the life of a leper did not add up to much. He would
have been an outcast, cut off from family, friends and society at large.
Healing meant being counted, belonging. Being converted, a leper now
had currency in community, as a member to be appreciated, rather than
one diseased and despised. As one healed, the leper became converted
scientifically from one person to a totally different person. The fact that
the leper did not remain silent is either a clear indication of his
faithlessness or absolute proof of his religious zeal. If one has to choose
between being rigidly religious or whole heartedly converted, the latter
seems the finer choice.
Your Friend and Pastor,
Joey
GOOD NEWS is published monthly by
First United Methodist Church of North
Hollywood, California 91601
Phone (818) 763-8231
Minerva Carcaño
Bishop
Rev. Dr. Cedrick Bridgeforth
District Superintendent
Dr. Joey K. McDonald
Pastor
Congregation
Ministers
Jeff Thomas
Director of Music
Roger Eshleman
Organist
Nylean Rapinac
Administrator
Patty Kelsey
Director, Program Ministries
Jessica Renslow/Tim Lahr
Director, Outreach Ministries

2. COME AND WORSHIP
The following Bible passages will be the basis for the 10:30 messages in February
Please take time each week to read the selected passages.
February 1 To Believe And Belong 1 Corinthians 8:1-13
February 8 To Speak Of Goodness Isaiah 40:21-31
February 15 The Long And Short Version 2 Corinthians 4:3-6
February 22 Read The Fine Print Genesis 9:8-17
HIGHLIGHTS OF WORSHIP
January 4 - Today was Epiphany Sunday and we all enjoyed the Christmas decor for a final Sunday
as the Advent season came to a close. Norman Kelsey & Phillip Mottaz shared January
announcements. Our Souper Bowl Sunday Soup Collection began this Sunday and continued
throughout the month. Pastor Joey’s sermon, “Why Prayer Matters” was based on Psalm 72:1-7, 10-14.
January 11 - This morning we recognized Lynn Hutton for all her time she shares with the children
and for the wonderful Children’s Christmas Pageant. Patty Kelsey shared a moment with the kids on
getting a chance to start fresh! Genesis 1:1-5, the creation story, was the reading that Pastor Joey
referred to in his message, “To Regain Form.”
January 18 - Pastor Joey’s sermon, “On Being Human,” was based on 1 Corinthians 6:12-20.
January 25 - Today was United Methodist Women Sunday. The UMW invited Patty Kelsey, Program
Ministries Director and Lay Speaker, to share a sermon titled, “Rest Stop,” which was based on Psalm
62:5-12. Many thanks to all of the ladies that took part in worship service; Jodi Smith, Myriel Tyree,
Lynn Yoshizumi, Kathi Ellis, Wendy Welch, Shirley Kurushima, Anita McChesney, Anne Roche, and
Margaret Doggett. Thank you to Tyree’s who helped to set up coffee hour provided by Program
Ministires.
Please contact Patty in the church office and let her know if you are interested in joining a
Lenten Bible Study led by Pastor Joey. The Series was created by Living The Questions,
and is called “Saving Jesus.”
The study would be on Sundays from February 22nd until March 29th, Palm Sunday.
Study will run 1 1/2 - 2 hours with start time TBD.
Please let Patty in the church office know if you’re interested.

3. The Wesley School &
North Hollywood FUMC
6th Annual Multi-Cultural Potluck
Friday, February 27th at 6:00 PM
Join us in the Social Hall for a night
of delicious food,cultural appreciation
and fellowship!
Please bring a dish to share that best
represents your heritage.
February 18th
6:00 PM
Boyer Chapel & Prayer Chapel
Silent Communion
Meditation & Prayer
Candle Lighting
7:00 PM - 7:30 PM
Worship Service
Boyer Chapel
Special Music & Readings
NoHo FUMC continues its mission to GIVE BACK
instead of Give Up for Lent!
#46 DAYS OF GIVING
On Ash Wednesday we ask that everyone join us at
worship in Boyer Chapel and grab a few “give back” cards
on our Lenten Board. The Missions Planning committee
will also have Give Back Calendars with various
organization and activities to support during Lent!
Join our movement!
IDEAS FOR LENT
Lent is so much more than just “giving
something up.” It’s about repentance,
preparation, reflection, discipline, and
reevaluation. Here are other ideas for you
to think about for the Lenten season.
Volunteer for mission events
Donate money to a good cause
Tithe a little extra
Recycle
Purge excess stuff
Donate excess stuff to rescue missions
Simplify your life
Use public transportation
Carpool
Save energy
Call someone and talk to them
Make time to see a friend in person
Reconnect by looking up from your phone
Be positive
Hug more
Smile more
Make eye contact
Listen
Say something kind
Be supportive
Pray more

4. What’s Happening in February?
Wednesday, February 11th - UMW General
Luncheon. 12:00 PM in the Lo-Fe-Lo Room.
Lunch and Program. $3 donation. (see details below.)
WAFFLE BREAKFAST
Sunday, February 22nd
9:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Social Hall
$5 Donation
Tuesday, February 10th
7:00 PM - MM Meeting
7:30 PM - Game Night
Sunday, February 1st - Souper Sunday! Final
day to bring cans of soup to church today and on
Mission Sunday for the Food Pantry.
Sunday, February 8th- Mission Sunday! Bring
non-perishable foods for the Food Pantry. Soup,
Peanut Butter and Tuna requested. Please bring a
few extra dollars for your offering!
Monday, February 9th - All-Church Movie
Night hosted by David! 6:45 PM Dinner and 7:15
Movie in the Lounge. (See details below)
Monday, February 9th
6:45 PM - Dinner
7:15 PM - Movie
Every Sunday in February - A Focus on Black History
10:30 AM worship. We will have a moment of special music,
poetry or readings that celebrate Black History. We hope you
will find these moments inspiring and educational.
Friday, February 27th - Sixth Annual Multi
Cultural Potluck! Potluck Dinner at 6:00 PM in the
Social Hall! Bring a dish that represents your heritage.
(See flyer for details)
Wednesday, February 18th - Ruth Circle meets
at 7:30 PM in the Community Room.
Sunday, February 22nd - Methodist Men Waffle
Breakfast! 9-10 in the Social Hall.
Tuesday, February 10th - Methodist Men
Meeting. 7:00 PM. Lounge. Game Night!
Monday, February 9th - Martha Circle meet in
Hand in Hand 11:00 AM.
Monday, February 16th - Tabitha Circle meets
at 10:30 AM in the Hand in Hand Room.
PB & J PROJECT
Thursday, February 19th
7:00 PM
Lounge
Join us in the lounge as we make 150
sandwiches that will go to the
homeless who visit the North
Hollywood Interfaith Food Pantry.
Thursday, February 19th - PB&J Project meets at
7:00 PM in the Lounge. Come make sandwiches for
the homeless that come to the food pantry.
Wednesday, February 18th - Ash Wednesday
Worship Service. 7:00 - 7:30 PM. Boyer Chapel.
Wednesday, February 18th - Silent Prayer &
Communion. 6:00 - 7:00 PM. Boyer Chapel.
Basketball on the Sports Court
Tuesdays & Thursday
6:00 PM
Saturdays
9:00 AM
CHOIR
PRACTICE
Wednesdays
7:30 PM
Main Sanctuary
Eggs
&
Bacon
too!

5. SAVE THE DATE!
Saturday, March 14th, 2015
LUCKY IN FASHION
FASHION SHOW & LUNCHEON
10:00 AM - 2:00 PM in the Social Hall!
Tickets are $20
Fashions by Drapers & Damons
Tickets will be available mid-February
purchase from Jodi Smith
UMW GENERAL LUNCHEON
Wednesday, February 11th, 2015
Noon
Lo-Fe-Lo Room
$3.00 donation includes lunch and program
All ladies are welcome!
HOW DO YOU TREAT THE HOMELESS?
By Patty Kelsey
The way we view the homeless is a complex thing.
Pity, sadness, empathy, fear, indifference can be felt
when you see someone who lives on the streets.
When they enter the doors of our church, it can also
cause us to feel uncomfortable or conflicted.
Maybe you are unsure how to treat them?
We need to contemplate the humanity of those less
fortunate than us and treat everyone with dignity,
using the Methodist tradition of
Open Hearts, Open Minds, Open Doors.
Something as simple as eye contact, and a “Hello,”
can make a significant difference to someone who
feels ignored and invisible.
Also, realize that there are members of our
congregation that previously experienced hardship
and were once homeless themselves. It is important
to be sensitive and not make assumptions.
Although we often experience that many of our
homeless population ask for monetary assistance,
there are also many previously homeless who
ask for nothing, other than to be part of a kind,
caring, and welcoming community.
We encourage you to hand out care kits that are
stocked in the lounge when you come across anyone
that needs a hand up.
Feel free to contact the church office if you need
assistance or have questions or concerns.
DOOR PRIZES NEEDED
Martha Circle is collecting items to be
used as door prizes for the fashion
show that’s coming up on March 8th.
They should be in nearly new condition
and unwrapped. See Margaret Doggett,
Judy Palmer or Marijane Settlemyer or any
member of Martha Circle.
Deadline to bring gifts: Before March 8th

6. He experiences a sudden streak of luck, winning poker games and even surviving deadly combat. Filled
with tender romance and terrific suspense, this is an unforgettable story about the surprising paths our lives
often take and the power of fate to guide us to true and everlasting love. “A Common Life: The Wedding
Story,” about the marriage of Father Tim Kavanagh and Cynthia Coopersmith, is the 6th novel in Jan
Karon’s Mitford Series, a celebration of faith and love.
There is also “Flags of our Fathers” by James Bradley, the true story behind the 6 men photographed
raising the U.S. flag at Iwo Jima.
Betty’s collection also includes “The Methodist Way of Life”, Bishop Gerald Kennedy’s moving, human
story of the beginnings of Methodism in 18th century England, through its turbulent years in the
American colonies, to its westward spread and eventual development through 1958. More than just the
history of Methodism, he writes of the feeling of being a Methodist, the special experience that is the
Methodist way of life. She also donated Frederick C. Grant’s “Basic Christian Beliefs”, a book designed to
lead Christians to re-examine, reaffirm and implement in daily living the doctrines which differentiate
Christianity from other religions.
If you need help remembering things about your past, to recall it more clearly and most of all, to
understand your memories as a blueprint for the extraordinary life you were meant to have, you need to
read Marilu Henner’s “Total Memory Makeover: Uncover Your Past, Take Charge of Your Future”.
During the month of February, these 7 books may be found on the piano in the Church Lounge/Library.
Check ‘em Out!
Generous people have donated quite a few books to the church library and I
have been remiss about doing the work necessary to get them ready to put them
on the library shelves. Until now!
Before she moved to Orange County, Betty Hogarth donated several interesting
books. There are 2 books in the fiction category. Nicholas Sparks’ “The Lucky
One” is about a U.S. Marine who finds a photograph of a smiling young
woman buried in the dirt during his tour of duty in Iraq.
I am happy to report that, thanks to a very observant person, the book “This Child Will Be Great,”
the memoir of Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, Africa’s first female president, found its way back to the Library.
It is shelved in the Reading Program section but is available for anyone to check out.
By Lynn Yoshizumi
SAFETY AND PRECAUTIONS
We recently were made aware that many of our female congregants (two of which were underage) were
harassed, photographed or experienced unwanted physical contact by a frequent visitor at our church.
Please know that Pastor Joey and the office staff always want to hear any of your concerns. Even if you
think they are just silly “gut feelings.” You are not being “judgmental,” or “critical.” We are here for you.
It is imperative that although we live by the Methodist Tradition of Open Hearts, Open Minds, Open
Doors, that we do not turn a blind eye to anyone that comes into our church to take advantage or to harm.
We have to protect our congregation, especially our elderly, our young women, teens and children. Please
continue to report any odd sightings or behavior to the church office. We have a plan in place to handle
the person in question.

7. Epworth Project exists so that the families affected by these disasters will not be forgotten. Epworth’s
goal is to provide basic needs for those living in unfit conditions, whether the conditions are hurricane
related or not. It also assists the low income and elderly with home repairs and builds handicapped ramps
for disabled citizens.
In order to finance this mission, each team member will pay $350.00 to cover the expenses of the trip, as
well as providing their own transportation to and from Slidell. I intend to pay that portion myself. In
addition funds must be raised for other expenses related to mission local transport, fuel, and other
miscellaneous expenses related to the work. Any money over and above that amount required will also go to
Epworth Project.
So, here’s where you come in. I am attempting to raise $1000 for the team fund and hope that you will
make a donation for this mission. The task of a mission is the actual work we will do in Slidell. While the
task is important, the purpose is the reason we serve - to share the love of Jesus Christ in a way that makes a
difference, to offer hope to the least, the last and the lost. We will connect the physical labor of serving
others to the unconditional love and grace of God, with the end goal being to cultivate change and allow
hope to grow. I hope that you will prayerfully consider making an investment in this mission. Through your
financial support, you will join us in serving our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and help us to be his hands
and feet in Slidell, Louisiana.
In Christ’s Love,
Ken Ellis
In April, I will travel with others of the North District
Mission Team to work in Slidell, Louisiana. We will be
working with the Epworth Project in Slidell, located at
Aldersgate United Methodist Church, serving the people of
the Southeast Louisiana. The Greater New Orleans area
has endured two major hurricanes (Katrina in 2005 and
Isaac in 2012) in the past 10 years leaving thousands
homeless and in great need.
Most people are well aware of the damages caused by
Hurricane Katrina, but MANY are not aware of the more
than 40,000 homes that were damaged by Hurricane Isaac
(which hit seven years to the day after Katrina).
Our Missions Team Annual Planning Meeting took place on
Saturday, January 24th. Keep an eye out for our Mission Calendar that
will come out on Ash Wednesday, detailing all sorts of ways you can
GIVE BACK locally, nationally and world wide during Lent!
2015 Missions: The Epworth Project, Hope of the Valley Rescue Mission,
UMCOR, Big Sunday, Imagine No Malaria, Discovery Arts, Shelter Animals, Our
Homeless Community, Operation Gratitude, International Justice Mission, Red Bird
Mission, Angels Haven Thai Orphanage, Heifer Project and the
North Hollywood Interfaith Food Pantry!
“No act of kindness, however small, is wasted.”
~Aesop
“The best way to find yourself is to lose
yourself in the service of others.” ~Ghandi
“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world;
indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.” ~Margaret Mead
#46DaysOfGiving

8. STAFF PARISH UPDATES
by Myriel Tyree
Jessie Renslow is stepping down as Director of Outreach
Ministries for our parish to move back to her hometown of
Gary, Indiana. Jessie accepted a job as the Community
Coordinator and will be driving cross country on February
13th. Although it is sad to see a Jessie move on, we are very
happy for her future endeavors.
Jessie has done a fabulous job enhancing NOHOFUMC’s online
presence. We thank her for her hard work and will miss her!
Safe travels, Jessie, and many blessings on your new adventure
back in your ol’ hometown of Gary!
Tim Lahr, will be taking over the position of Outreach
Ministries Director immediately. Tim, is a recent graduate of
The Arts Institute of California-Hollywood, with a Bachelor’s
of Science in Digital Film Making and Video Production.
Tim will use his considerable success through new technology
in making our presence known in the community, one notable
example being the Christmas Tree Lot. Tim is an active
member of our congregation and a familiar face on Sundays.
Please join us in welcoming Tim and in saying, “Thank You &
Farewell,” to Jessie.
It’s funny how fast five years can fly by. Having been raised in a United Methodist Church, I spent
a decade searching for a congregation that reminded me of the one I had been brought up in. I
had almost given up, and then on a whim, I decided to check out NoHo FUMC one day in 2010.
From my first visit it was like I’d found my bridge back home. Everyone was so friendly, from then
on I was engulfed in an instant community. My spirit was able to flourish in this environment. So,
now it is a bittersweet time for me. I’m moving home to new opportunities, ones that I’m very
excited about, but I won’t forget my time here.
The essence of NoHo FUMC will linger in my heart, as it has fondly shaped my final five years in
Los Angeles. I’ve truly been blessed having been a part of our congregation and will miss all of
you. I’m happy to be leaving your digital media needs in the capable hands of Tim Lahr. Thank
you for all for your love and support!

9. February 1 Lisa Zung
February 2 Mee Zung
February 4 Morenike Lake
February 4 Sandra Smith
February 5 Dr. Lancelot Lake
February 5 Justin Parnell
February 6 Don Farrand
February 6 Norman Kelsey
February 6 Tiernan Paull
February 10 Daisy Galvis
February 10 Grace Lawrence
February 12 Michael Cox
February 13 Jackie Sawiris
February 14 Wendy Ince
February 15 Jim Wilkinson
February 20 Ava Peat
February 20 Beyla Nyaforh
February 21 Dr. Phil Griggs
February 25 Scott Shepard
February 27 Steve Pitchford
February 28 David Eshleman
February 28 Uma Tokahuta
Jonathan Thomas
Please lift up Jeff Thomas and his entire family.
Rachel Kim
Please lift up Hannah Ye-Books and family.
Scott Peat’s Uncle Dave, suffered a massive stroke on Tuesday, December 30th.
Lisa Cheby’s friend, Dallas Taylor, had to fly to Ecuador to care for his brother who became ill.
Both are doing well now.
Elena was granted religious asylum and wanted to thank everyone for their support and prayers.
Joyce Cunningham took a series of bad falls and was moved to assisted living. She was having quite
a difficult time adjusting to the drastic life changes.
Sharon Natoli requests prayers for her Daughter, Noelle, who is going through a divorce and for her
Grandson, Anthony, who is autistic. Anthony also suffers from apraxia of speech.
Deanne Cox underwent surgery to place a catheter in her abdomen on Tuesday, January 27th. The
surgery was successful and Deanne will soon undergo training to receive at-home dialysis.
Charlie Cox has been dealing with high blood sugar levels.
Ralph Seybold’s sister, Barbara Stutes, is in a coma.
Doug Eboch requests prayers for his Aunt Judie, cousin Leslie, and Leslie's Son, Conner. Leslie's 16
year old son (Judie's grandson and Conner's brother) Nick Grant, was killed/murdered the week of
January 20th.
Heidi Randel, daughter of Hanna Sack, had back surgery on January 22nd.

10. Reflections
! Joey K. "Donald
Reflections are part of the weekly bulletin inserts for worship. This writing is originally from January 11, 2009
and Pastor Joey’s sermon was titled “From Hands Of Faith Come Heavenly Things” based on Acts 19:1-7.
Acts 19:1-7 is a text detailing what some refer to as Baptism in the Holy Spirit. Paul has
followed Apollos into Ephesus and encounters followers of John the Baptist. In conversation,
he discovers they have no understanding of the Holy Spirit. Paul and those with him lay hands
on them, and their world is changed radically because they can now speak in tongues, and
prophesy. Luke reports that there were about twelve, which is a way of linking this story back
to the ministry of Jesus and the original twelve disciples. The ultimate question here is, what
does it mean to follow Jesus? More importantly, how do believers respond to life in terms of
the gifts it brings?
Stephen Schwartz in the song “All Good Gifts,” written for the musical “Godspell,” gives a
wonderful indication. “We plow the fields and scatter the good seed on the land, but it is fed
and watered by God’s almighty hand. He sends the snow in winter, the warmth to swell the
grain, the breezes and the sunshine and soft refreshing rain.” (Then the refrain) “All good gifts
around us are sent from heaven above, So thank the Lord, oh thank the Lord for all his love.”
The difficulty, of course, is in keeping balance, lest we fall into a faulty theology where we
thank God and feel blessed when things go well and then feel cursed or perhaps even curse
God when bad things happen.
Here believers receive the Holy Spirit and have a transforming experience. However, we are
all too aware that an active and deep faith does not exempt any of us from sadness, pain or
suffering. The openness of these disciples is key to grasping the power of a lasting faith. For in
receiving the Baptism they are saying that they understand God’s presence is lasting. This
means the Love of Christ does not exempt us from harsh and hurtful times, rather it surrounds
and supports us always, but especially then. The late prophet of the Protestant Church,
William Sloane Coffin wrote, “When the worst in life happens in this world, we are called in
the name of the Spirit to show the best of God’s love.

11. OPPORTUNITIES FOR WORSHIP
February 1 Fourth Sunday after the Epiphany. Green.
Deut. 18:15-20; Ps. 111; 1 Cor. 8:1-13; Mark 1:21-28
February 8 Fifth Sunday after the Epiphany. Scouts Sunday. Green.
Isa. 40:21-31; Ps. 147:1-11, 20c; 1 Cor. 9:16-23; Mark 1:29-39
February 15 Last Sunday after the Epiphany. Transfiguration Sunday. White.
2 Kings 2:1-12; Ps. 50:1-6; 2 Cor. 4:3-6; Mark 9:2-9
February 22 First Sunday in Lent. Purple.
Gen. 9:8-17; Ps. 25:1-10; 1 Pet. 3:18-22; Mark 1:9-15
8:15 AM Worship Services in Boyer Chapel
February 1 - Pastor Joey February 8 - Sandra Smith
February 15 - Norman Kelsey February 22 - Sandra Smith
Please have your articles for the Good News to the church office by February 17th for the March 2015 publication
or email them to pattyfumc@gmail.com
POSTMASTER - Please send changes of address to:
First United Methodist Church of North Hollywood
4832 Tujunga Avenue, North Hollywood, CA 91601
Sunday Worship Services at 10:30 AM in the Main Sanctuary
Adult Sunday School meets at 9:15 AM in the Hand in Hand room
Children’s Sunday School meets at 10:30 AM in the Community Room/Nursery
Children’s Message third Sunday of the month during 10:30 worship service
Communion will be celebrated on February 1st at 8:15 AM and 10:30 AM worship services.