Site
Contents

Search

Contact Information

Imagine Indiana Transition Team Information

General Information about the Area Office

Bishop Coyner's Office

Communications

North Indiana Conference Office

South Indiana Conference Office

Appointments

Appointment Process

Death Notices

Prayer Guides
(Courtesy of the NIC Prayer Team)

Area United Methodist
Foundation

Conferences
& Districts

Annual 
Conference 2006

Links

Missions &
Ministries


For resources to assist your congregation in welcoming guests, click here

Seashore District Volunteer Center VIM project -- Completed

Jobs & Events

Local Pastor's School

Course of Study

Site Map

General 
Conference 2004

Hoosier United Methodist  News Archives

Previous Years Annual Conference Coverage

News Releases

Home Page

Hoosier United Methodists together

September 2005

Contest puts vision from familiar hymn in focus

By Barbara J. Sieminski
with photos courtesy of New Haven United Methodist Church

New Haven United Methodist Church members hope their first community "Photos of Faith" photography contest will quickly become an annual tradition.

"Three years ago, I attended the United Methodist Women's national meeting in Boston," explained Kim Linker, 39, a member of the church and the driving force behind the contest. "While there, I went to a workshop that discussed using art in our faith, and I realized that many people have the desire to creatively communicate their faith to others in that way.

"I chose photography as a medium, because of its availability to all people, and also because it would be easier for a larger age range to participate," said Linker, who leads a Bible study class and teaches Sunday school at the church. "God put this vision in my heart."

The theme of the competition was "How Great Thou Art," said Linker, and photographers used their inspiration when entering their photos. Full lyrics of the hymn are available by visiting www.newhavenumc.com and clicking on "Photos of Faith."

Linker also credited Trish Richhart, who did the artwork in the contest's publicity materials, and Eileen Ahlersmeyer, who helped with publicity, for making this vision a reality.

During New Haven Canal Days, photos entered in the contest were exhibited at the church from 4 to 8 p.m, June 10 and 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., June 11. A PowerPoint slide presentation with inspirational music also played in the sanctuary during the exhibit, Linker said.

Pastor Maurice Grindle delivered a sermon June 12 at all three worship services, inspired by the contest's theme, "How Great Thou Art."

A published volume of the compiled photographs was available for purchase at the exhibit.

There were 123 photos in three age categories. There was no best of show. Next year's contest has been scheduled for the first weekend of June to coincide with Canal Days. Linker said the theme will come from John 14:27: "Peace I leave with you; my peace, I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid" (NIV).

This article is courtesy of The News-Sentinel.

Last updated on 25 Apr 2008


Questions or comments: webmaster@inareaumc.org