I greet you in the precious name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. This is St. Paul's birth month. Homecoming and Anniversary Sunday will be observed and celebrated, October 14, 2001. The bishop is scheduled to be the speaker for the worship service.

Laity Sunday is a very important day in the life of this church. It is observed annually and will be done on October 21, 2001, at our regular worship service. The laity of the church will be responsible for the entire service. "Setting the Table," is the theme for Laity Sunday. This means preparing specifically for guests. Brother Carrington Smith and family will plan, develop and present a message in accordance with the designated theme for this year. You can expect a spirited program that will continue to show "holy boldness" in telling the story of Jesus. This is good time for all of us to be in partnership with our neighbor by inviting their participation in the worship experience. Come and be blessed as well as be a blessing to others.

Our School of Christian Growth for the Washington East District will begin classes on October 3, 2001, at Forest Memorial United Methodist Church. Pre-registration is required. No walk-in registration accepted.
The Lay Leader will continue to support our call to be ministers in partnership with particular emphasis on the following church ministries:

• Prayer (without ceasing) for the sick and underprivileged
  
• Sunday School
  
• Worship (obedient to Holy Spirit)
  
• Disciple Bible Study
  
• Church Council
  
• United Methodist Men
  
• Pastor Parish Relations
  
• Finance Committee
  
• Nominating Committee
  
• School of Christian Growth (District Level)