HOLY WEEK - Anona United Methodist Church
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MARCH /APRIL
2021
HOLY WEEK
MISSION COLLECTIONS
MAUNDY THURSDAY GOOD FRIDAY EASTER SUNDAY Habitat for Humanity
Join us for special A time of prayer online Celebrate the cleaning supplies help
music and message live.anona.com, 9a-12p resurrection of Christ welcome families!
on April 1 at 7pm in or visit our chapel online or in-person!
Traditional Sanctuary 11:30a-6p on April 2. anona.com/holyweek
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4 7
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A Hand, A Heart, A Prayer 03 Women’s Ministries 15
Stephen Ministry at Anona | Legacy Center Women are connecting & Growing their faith
March & April Sermons 04 Grow Faith 15
Your Weekly Messages Amplify
A Missional Heart 06 Small Groups, Activities, and Fellowship 16
Community Outreach Endless opportunities to connect with your Anona family
Nursery 08 Anona Counseling Center 17
Infant/Preschool Ministry Unearthed
Anona Kids 09 Academy of the Arts 17
Patience, Peace, and FUN! Sandy is BACK!
Calendar 10-11 Our Members 18
Anniversariers and In Memoriam
Youth 12
What is a Small Group Leader? Our Church 19
Worship times, highlighted dates, and office hours
Anona Child Development Center 13
2021-22 Registration Our Staff 19
Pastors and staff contact information
Men’s Ministries 14
Discovering Your CQ
A Hand, A Heart, A Prayer
Bear one another’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ (Galatians 6:2).
We’ve turned the calendar page to schooling, financial strain or any other Legacy Center
2021, leaving a painful 2020 behind, unexpected challenges, please don’t
expecting vaccines for everyone and face it alone. Our Stephen Ministers To God Be the Glory
a new administration to guide our are ready to listen, to care, encourage
country into peace and understanding, and provide emotional and spiritual Transformation!
but things are still fragile. support. We will meet with you Restoration!
privately - by phone, by video chat, or if Affirmation!
Stephen Ministers world wide have safely possible, in person - to offer care
defined themselves over the last and support. Such powerful words to describe
40 years by stepping up when men what the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit
and women struggle to find a way It’s completely confidential and free. offers us when we live in communion
forward; shedding tears together with our creator. God has a perfect
during grief; laughing together about For more information, please call the plan to heal our brokenness and
grandchildren; listening to broken church office and leave a private voice enlarge our capacity for love and life.
dreams in marriages, job loss and mail or contact me, Clara Rogers,
family disfunction. We’ve listened when through the Anona website or app. Peter tells us that when we humble
people struggle with aging and the ourselves, the mighty hand of God
physical and mental issues that come “Come to me, all you who are weary will lift us up, and because He cares
with it. We listen to people struggling and burdened, and I will give you rest.” for us, He invites us to cast all our
when fate dealt an ugly hand. Matthew 11:28. anxiety on Him.
The Stephen Ministers have also Clara Rogers We are one full year into the great
experienced their own loss of spouses, pandemic of our lifetime, we will
children, and best friends. We’ve had Join us for private prayer during our never go back to the way things were
cancer diagnosis, made poor choices LIVE Contemporary and Traditional before, yet when God Restores, He
and had our own faith shaken to its Services on Sunday mornings. makes us better than before. God
foundation. Many of us have had our who is the ultimate example of Grace
own Stephen Minister who listened to will Restore us after we have suffered
us and acted as a conduit for God to PRAYER CHAIN: The Anona Prayer Chain and make us strong and steadfast. To
work on us when we were too bruised is composed of church members who God be the power for ever and ever!!
to do it by ourselves. pray daily for those requesting prayers Amen
for themselves and others. Requests
If you are experiencing any of these are kept confidential unless otherwise Terry Collier & Peter the Apostle
things or are experiencing tension specified. To submit a prayer request, go Terry Collier, Terry@anona.com
from juggling your job, childcare and to anona.com/prayer.
4 | ANONA MAGAZINE
Our Mountain of Mess
Lenton Sermon Series
MAR 7: BLESS THIS MESS
“Oh the places you’ll go, today is your in the days ahead. I’ll hear about (Romans 3:23-24)
day! Your mountain is waiting, so… problems at work, challenges “Old habits die hard.” I’ve found
get on your way!” - Dr. Suess with adult kids, and we’ll share myself saying this when I struggle
memories of parents now lost. I’ll addressing my own messy moments.
“Life can be a mountain that is the realize I don’t hike a mountain of We are creatures of habit, and often
case! The challenge before us, comes mess alone. We hike very similar find ourselves simply surrendering to
when everyday seems like it starts at mountains. I’ll also learn how they messy moments, or hoping that God
the base.” - Richard Landon handle some of the messy climbs might magically fix the situation for
and discover victories they have us. Let us seek lasting change in our
Okay. I’m no Dr. Seuss. Sometimes, experienced and lessons they lives through our Journey of Grace
however, it does feel like everyday have learned from the moments and atransformed life in Jesus Christ.
is a new mountain to climb rather when they lost their footing and
than a continuation of a journey up fell backward a bit. MAR 14: NO MESSING AROUND
a single mountain. The difference is (1 Thessalonians 5:23-24)
significant. In climbing further along We each have our own mountain There is no messing around in the
on the same mountain, we can at of mess. As we continue our journey. Sanctification is the goal
least look back (and down) to see the Lenten Series, “Restored: Finding and to be made into holiness. God
progress we have made. That alone Redemption in Our Mess,” I will get us there if we “stay in the
can give us hope to move forward, hope you realize you have made car”, “stay on the path”, continue
even as we face the challenge of the progress, that pauses around to persevere. God will “do it” and
next portion of our climb. On my a campfire are necessary, and we can trust that. Our job is to
toughest days, I gain strength from others are on a journey like you cooperate with a power beyond
knowing that the progress through and with you. Not only that, I ourselves.
my mess is often less today BECAUSE I especially hope you know God
handled some of the mess yesterday. loves you, sent his Son to walk MAR 21: ADDRESS THIS MESS
with you, and gives you the gift (Matthew 22:37-40)
Not only that, sometimes you get of the Holy Spirit to urge you on There is a goal for our lives from
to pause on the mountain and rest. toward the summit and victory God’s perspective, and it has nothing
Pauses are powerful. In fact, I’m over your mountain of mess. to do with our careers, family,
taking a vacation! That’s right, I’m finances or even our specific calling.
taking a break and soooo ready for In the words of Paul, “If God is for Our journey of grace leads us toward
it. Linda, Shadow and I are loading us, who can be against us?” As what is known as sanctifying grace,
up the camper and heading north followers of Christ we don’t just a grace that restores the image of
for a break. It gives us a chance to climb mountains, we move them! God within us. It’s God’s way of
let go of the things pressing on us. Let’s do that together! addressing the mess in me and you.
It gives us the ability to share some
time together walking in the woods, MAR 28: THE MESSAGE IN THE
looking at the stars and getting warm With You in the Climb, MESS
by a campfire. (Matthew 21:6-9, Colossians 3:12-17)
It is Palm Sunday- the day we
More notably, the vacation is also a Richard (Dr. Suess) Landon remember Jesus’ ride into Jerusalem
mini family reunion. Linda and I will as the people waved palm branches
be gathering with three of my four and shouted, “Hosanna!” What
sisters and their husbands along with Join us each Sunday online at does this have to do with finding the
our daughter Brianna for some time 8:15, 9:30, and 11:10 am: message in our messes? Join us this
in the mountains of South Carolina! live.anona.com or on the app. Sunday as we dive in together.
I’ll hear their mountain of mess stories
5 | ANONA MAGAZINE
This is Our Story. This is Our Song. APRIL 4: HE IS THE ONE
(John 20:1-18)
He is risen! He is risen indeed! Two
April Sermon Series short sentences that encompass
the point of Easter. For the disciples,
however, it appears it was more of
a question and response: “He is
risen? He is risen indeed!” If we’re
honest, that might be a better way
of portraying our own experience of
Easter. Our doubt encounters God’s
truth…and we gather every year to
remember that truth.
APRIL 11: GROUNDED
(Romans 12:9-18)
When it comes to the Christian life,
John Wesley lifted up some specific
ways to live a life that becomes the
“I decided to know nothing among Easter on the first Sunday of the gospel. For the next four weeks
you except Jesus Christ, and him month and it launches us forward we look at some of the things he
crucified.” - 1 Corinthians 2:2 to new life. The week after Easter, taught and encouraged us to do as
we start to live into that new life Methodists seeking to live the gospel.
Like any life, Jesus’ began with a by seeking to go deeper into our Our faith is, or should be, grounded
birth and ended in a death. It wasn’t faith. We’ll be looking at some in these things.
a normal birth, as we know from the things that early Methodists did to
celebration of Christmas. It wasn’t move toward holiness of heart and APRIL 18: RELATIONSHIP WITH
a normal death either, as the verse life. Don’t let that word “holiness” GOD (Acts 17:23-28 )
above mentions. He died crucified scare you away. For us Methodists, Our relationship with God is one of
on a cross. What happened next was holiness is a journey grounded in an the central parts of our fath journey.
what everything in his life before that ever-increasing love for God. That Today we will explore Wesley’s
moment pointed to…resurrection! isn’t something to run from, it is understanding of God and faith as
Easter! New Life! This is our story. This something to run toward. we seek to learn and grow stronger
is our song. in our connection with Yahweh.
Join us for Easter (online or reserve
As we celebrate our second to attend in person). Then, like the APRIL 28: OUR RELATIONSHIP TO
consecutive Easter under the shadow disciples, go beyond Easter as a OURSELVES (1 John 3:1-3)
of COVID, the story and the song moment to a new way of life. This “Behold what manner of love God
inspire us to always see light in is our story! This is our song! Sing it has bestowed upon us that we
darkness, life in death. Not merely and live it all the day long! should be called “Children of God”.
light in darkness, but light that leads “…it does not yet appear what we
us out of darkness. Not only life in shall be”. Isn’t that interesting. It
death, but life that leads us out of Richard Landone goes on to say that we shall be like
death. As Christians we get to live that Jesus, and should therefore “hagnizo”
life now! The Good News is not merely Maundy Thursday Reservations will which means pure, sanctified, and
about our life after death, it is about open on Thursday, March 25 at 9AM “self-cleansing”. Are you? The only
our life today. This is our story. This is and again on Friday, March 26 at example I can think of is a self-
our song. He is risen! 1PM until we reach capacity. Easter cleaning oven. Like a crucible it
Reservations will open on Monday, reduces any stain to ash. Should be
Easter Sunday tells us that what March 29 at 9AM and again on an intriguing and thought provoking
happened on Good Friday is not Tuesday, March 30 at 1PM until we Sunday. I’m prepping now and “it
the end of the story. We celebrate reach capacity. ANONA.COM/RSVP does not yet appear what it shall be”.
6 | ANONA MAGAZINE
A Missional Heart
Jackie Evans | jackie@anona.com | anona.com/missions
“Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.”
Philippians 2:4
Habitat continues to build new homes Glass Cleaner in a spray bottle ADDITIONAL MISSION
for hardworking, deserving individuals Toilet Bowl Cleaner OPPORTUNITIES:
and families, who want to realize their Paper Towels (2-3 pack) in the Store
Dreams of Homeownership. Wrapper CHANGE 4 CHANGE
Liquid Hand Soap Love your neighbor by bringing in
With 9 New Homeowners receiving pocket change (or paper!) Purple tables
their keys in January & February, March Thanks for your help in continuing will be outside of Church all morning as
will also see 5 New Homeowners to support Habitat, by providing you leave services.
moving in, including 2 down the street, homeowners with these Welcome
off of Wilcox Road, across from Young Baskets. Change can also be dropped off to the
Life Center. front office Monday the 15th during
Your generosity provides a nice surprise office hours. Our 10th grade students
March will be the next collection of to Homeowners who unlock the front are still donating to the community
Cleaning Essentials, which are given door for the first time, to their new and hope to be back on campus soon!
to each new Habitat Homeowner in home that they have saved and put (Change for Change collects on the 2nd
Pinellas County, on the day they receive “Sweat Equity” into - to see a basket full Sunday of each month)
the keys to thier new home!! of supplies given by our Anona Family.
SOCK IT TO US SUCCESS!!
Throughout March, The Missions Team You can bring any of the listed supplies Thank you all so much for the donations
is asking for cleaning supply donations, to the collection bins at the front door during our January ‘Sock it to us’
because even though we can’t have of the Church, Monday - Friday before campaign. Our wonderful congregation
volunteers helping build, we can still 2 pm. Or, drive by and drop off on donated 1362 pairs of socks! That
be a part of this wonderful dedication Wednesday, March 31st 4 pm - 6 pm. number provides 133 kids with their
moment. For cash donations, please write Habitat socks for an entire year (each child
Baskets in the Memo Line of your check. receives 5 pairs at each of their twice a
Needed donations include: year ‘shopping’ trips) We also collected
Toilet Paper (package of 4-6) in the For more information on how to get lots of gently used clothing for K-12th
store wrapper involved in Habitat (or if you know of aged students. Once again Anona thank
Trach Bags - 13 gallon someone who may qualify for a new you, for making a difference in our
Laundry Detergent (max size: 50 oz) Habitat Home), email Dave Gerald: community!
Disinfectant Wipes dsgerald@hotmail.com
7 | ANONA MAGAZINE
ANONA THRIFT SHOPPE We were able to step in and support
Anona Thrift Shoppe which is owned
and operated by Hands Of Healing
school staff at a difficult and stressful
time. What a wonderful event it was to Anona Simply
Medical Missions continues to feed and
clothe the below poverty populations
spread some appreciation and joy at a
time it was most needed! Worship
of Guatemala and also locally. After two
back-to-back hurricanes devastated We will be planning something similar During these times of COVID-19
villages in Guatemala HOH was able this year to show our locals schools how we truly miss the intimate worship
to send over $30,000 earmarked to much we care about their staff and all experience that Simply Worship offers
feed people living in shelters. Locally they do for children in our community. in the historic Anona Chapel. In the
through the Anona Thrift Shoppe they We are in a better place a year later meantime, we are worshipping online
were able to provide Thanksgiving and and we are starting to imagine what a live by Zoom on Sunday mornings at
Christmas dinners, gifts and winter new normal will look like. Anona has 10:45. We connect virtually for quiet
clothes for several in our community. continued to honor our community worship, acoustic music, and prayer.
ATS motto is to Reuse-Reduce- heroes through a difficult year and will We are always eager to welcome
Recycle-Repurpose so everything that do so no matter the circumstances this newcomers. Questions? Contact Bert or
is donated finds a home locally. The year because to us that’s a natural part Judy Crossman at 727-282-8535 or bert.
thrift shoppe is looking for volunteers, of who we are as a Church! crossman@tampabay.rr.com so that we
contact Nancy Dowd at: tdowd127@aol. can send you a link to worship with us.
com for more info. The shoppe located In April we will collect $10 gift cards to
at 12025 Indian Rocks Road, is open restaurants, coffee shops, and anywhere
Mon. 10-3 closed Tues open Wed-Sat school supplies are sold. On average
10-3. classroom teachers can spend $500
or more out of their own pockets in a
year on classroom supplies and student
Make sure you continue to needs. They care deeply about our kids!
follow us online, on the app, or
on Facebook as we announce
ways to get involved.
We also miss our mission outreach at to
CHILDREN’S HOME Lealman’s Adopt-A-Block and the
Congratulations Anona! As a Church, Florida Dream Center on which would
we donated over $330,000 to the normally meet monthly. During this
children at the Florida United Methodist time when we cannot be physically
Children’s Home. In fact, Elisabeth Gadd, present, we encourage those of you
chief development officer from FUMCH, who want to help to visit:
presented us an award for first place https://floridadreamcenter.org/
as the highest giving church! Keep up So we love to give them a small token give/support-financially?mc_
the giving hearts, Anona. Next month, to treat themselves, that’s where you cid=22a9edf4dd&mc_eid=c9aa203bbd
on March 27, the Children’s Home will come in! We hope everyone can find a This is the only way we can help these
be having an on-campus virtual tour, way to pick up a $10 gift card this April, folks during these difficult times.
to allow us to see what amazing things as we start collecting for the June 10th
they are doing on campus. You can event. We will have a donation area Please be in prayer for all residents at
do this all from the comfort of your for Sunday Mornings or during normal Indian Oaks Assisted Living. We haven’t
own home. Details to come! Again, office hours in the week. Look for the been able to lead worship on our
congratulations Anona! School Staff collection signs. 2021 is still normal first Sundays due to COVID-19.
a challenge for schools as they continue If you are interested in joining us to lead
to grapple with quarantines, PPE needs, worship service when the restrictions of
TEACHER APPRECIATION and virtual options - Let us continue COVID-19 are lifted, please contact Bert
$10 GIFT CARDS!! to be a blessing to all those who are or Judy Crossman at 727-282-8535.
As you can see the 2020 Teacher helping to raise the next generation.
breakfast ‘drive-thru’ was well received. Anona Simply Worship
8 | ANONA MAGAZINE
Nursery
Shawn Seward | nursery@anona.com | anona.com/infantandpreschool
INFANT PRESCHOOL MARCH THEME: START YOUR ENGINES
When racecar drivers hear the call to “start your engines,” the mission is
clear, and they are ready to go, go, go! The same can be said for those of
us who follow Jesus. Jesus is calling each of us to start our engines and go
do what He has prepared us to do. His call is to “love each other the way
I have loved you.” Yes, the mission is clear, and it’s time for us to help our
preschoolers get ready to go, go, go and love, love, love—like Jesus! And,
how do we love like Jesus? We put others first and are a good friend. We
share with others, help others, and say kind words to each other. When
we do these things, our light shines bright and the love of Jesus shines
through us. Preschoolers want to show everyone that, “I can do it. I can put
on my shoes. I can make my bed. I can carry heavy things.” Let’s help them
“LOVE EACH OTHER AS I HAVE add, “I can love like Jesus,” to that list. Now, start your engines!
LOVED YOU” - JOHN 15:12
APRIL THEME: FLY A KITE
We get to start the month with the Good News of Easter-Jesus is alive
and wants to be our friend forever! We will continue through the month
with stories about breakfast on the beach, the early church, and the great
commission. In these stories, the children will be taught and reminded
that Jesus wants to be their friend forever. Our hope is the children will be
so excited about what they have learned they will want to share with their
friends their love for Jesus.
“HOW WIDE AND LONG AND HIGH Since we are not meeting in person monthly activity bags will be available
AND DEEP IS THE LOVE OF CHRIST? to follow along with the stories each week on our website. To get a FUN
– EPHESIANS 3:18 activity bag, stop by the church or email nursery@anona.com.
WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BE A SMALL GROUP LEADER? ACTIVITY BAG DROP OFF!
We want to be prepared for when it is safe for our children to return to campus. We are looking for adults who
love Jesus and love small children! It’s that easy!! We will provide you with all the materials you need. The Orange
Curriculum we use is very teacher-friendly. We will be there to support you as needed and provide a healthy
environment for our leaders and children. Please contact Shawn Seward at nursery@anona.com if you would like
more information about our programming. I would love the opportunity to meet with you in
person or via Zoom to give you more information.
In January we delivered 25 February Activity Bags to 15 families of children in Anona Little
Kids (Infant-PreK). We also delivered 3 birthday bags to those who had birthdays in January.
Please let us know if you would like to be included in the activity bags or if your child is not
registered with us.
Follow us on Instagram at Anonalittlekids for all our weekly videos, stories from our team,
and information for parents.
9 | ANONA MAGAZINE
Kids
Bonnie Barrow | bonnie@anona.com | anona.com/elementary
MARCH ANONA KIDS! APRIL
We feel so lucky to still be able to
connect with our kids even though
we can’t yet be together in-person!
We have been meeting Sunday
mornings at 9:30 AM over Zoom with
our students, where we play games,
listen to Bible stories, worship, and
connect with friends! And over
the past few months, our regular
March is all about Patience! student connection has doubled! April is all about Peace! Peace
Patience is waiting until later for is proving you care more about
what you want now! What are you We love seeing our kids in worship each other than winning an
waiting for? over zoom, and we can’t wait for the argument!
day that we can have our kids back
Remember This: “Wait for the on campus again soon! Remember This: “So let us do all
Lord. Be strong and don’t lose we can to live in peace. And let
hope. Wait for the Lord. Email me: Bonnie@anona.com to us work hard to build up one
Psalm 27:14. connect on ZOOM each Sunday! another.” - Romans 14:19.
HAPPY EASTER FROM ANONA KIDS!
LENT FAMILY GOODY BAGS
If you haven’t yet received your Lent Family Goody Bags,
please email bonnie@anona.com. These are a fun, experiential
opportunity for Elementary aged students to read through
the Bible stories leading up to Easter and reflect on Jesus’ story
through activities, crafts, and unique experiences.
FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA!
Stay connected with our
weekly Anona Kids updates,
or follow us on social media to
receive updates on our Easter
Family event.
10 | ANONA MAGAZINE
APRIL11 | ANONA MAGAZINE 2021
12 | ANONA MAGAZINE
Youth
anona.com/youth
Megan Trunzo megan@anona.com
What does it mean to be a Small Group Leader?
Here at Anona Youth, we want to see kids develop a BIG, authentic kind of faith. It’s a BIG challenge, but we believe it can
happen through something SMALL . . . namely, the the small group leader! But the only way you can help kids cultivate
authentic faith is through leading small.
When we lead small, we realize that what we do for a few will always have more potential than what we do for many.
When we lead small, we simply make a choice to invest strategically in the lives of a few over time so we can help them
build an authentic faith. That’s what being a small group leader is all about!
As a small group leader, you win when kids have meaningful interactions, both inside and outside of small group, that
influence their faith in Jesus and deepen their relationships with others.
What exactly IS a small group leader? A friend? A parent? A coach? A teacher? Here’s what we define as a small group
leader: A small group leader is anyone who chooses to invest in the lives of a few to encourage authentic faith.
Now, here’s the real question! Who can be a Middle School Small Group Leader? The Answer! YOU, you can be the
BIG faith that helps students through some difficult years. So thank you for thinking SMALL enough to take on a BIG
challenge.
To learn more, email the Student Ministry Director, Megan Trunzo (megan@anona.com)!
YOUTH EASTER BIBLE STUDY
Chocolate bunnies, baskets of candy, and lots of colors—that’s what Easter
is all about for most of the world right? But what if there was more to it
than that? What if the true story of Easter is bigger and better than all of the
baskets of candy we could imagine?
Join us for our annual Youth Easter Bible Study on Thursdays in March!
Thursday, March 4th 6:30-8:00pm
Thursday, March 11th 6:30-8:00pm
Thursday, March 25th 6:30-8:00pm
Go to www.anona.com/youthevents to reserve your spot today!
Staying Connected With Us!
Like us on Facebook: Anona Student Ministry or Instagram: AnonaYouth13 | ANONA MAGAZINE
Anona Child Development Center
Marion Denton, Director | Suzie Crosslin, Asst. Director 727-593-KIDS
REGISTER
for 2021-2022
It is open registration for ACDC
2021-22 School Year.
We offer a quality, Conscious
Discipline based program
developed to empower lifelong
So many things are happening Conscious Discipline is one tool in this learners. We offer preschool
in the Anona Child Development transformation. It reminds us: classes for ages 2 - VPK and
program! The weather has begun to provide transportation to and
transition and there are signs of spring • To find composure before engaging in from Anona, Bauder, Oakhurst
everywhere. With the transitions all the moment and Ridgecrest Elementary
around us, we cannot help but feel • To remember that we are safe, loved Schools for before and after care.
“hope” in the air. Seeing the wonder and we can handle this - we are not
through the eyes of our little ones it alone on this journey. We are also excited at the
brings excitement to the upcoming • To wish the other person well and see prospect of opening a 1-year old
season. The children are learning that the best in that person. (This skill is room in the nursery. It is a new
just like the caterpillar, transformation especially important as we are trying endeavor, and we are working on
is occurring in their lives. They are to navigate throughout all our current its completion!
older, able to manage things that were worldly situations.)
once impossible. They are growing • To validate the moment for what it Please give us a call for more
independent and able to take care is, because denying what IS denies all information - 727.593.5437.
of themselves in new ways. They are those present, including ourselves. We look forward to serving our
learning to breathe and use their big • To be empathetic as we engage with church family!
voice to express needs and manage others, seeing the moment from their
their upsets, and to express empathy perspective. www.anona.com/acdc
for others in need, offering well wishes 727.593.KIDS
and concrete tools for helping others to As we journey through the classrooms
manage their upsets. and watch this program in practice,
seeing young children manage their
As adults, we have these same tools upsets and care for the needs of others,
available to us. This is a new season for we are reminded that what we give to
a self-appraisal. It offers us the time and them we strengthen in ourselves.
grace to contemplate the relationships
we have, how our interactions are We have been steadily enrolling
helpful or hurtful and to measure children for the fall. We still have
the ways we will seek to transform openings available; our goal is to be at
ourselves and through this personal normal capacity by the fall. Our gold
transformation, and to strengthen and seal programs offer classes for 2-year-
enhance our connections with those we olds through VPK age. Also, we have
love. Transformation is often difficult. It a wonderful before and after school
comes filled with uncertainty, conflict, program for elementary aged children.
and disappointment. Learn more online: anona.com/acdc.14 | ANONA MAGAZINE Men’s Ministries Discovering our Cultural Quotient (CQ) On the day of Pentecost shortly after Jesus left His disciples and re-entered into heaven, there were Jews “from every nation under heaven” who were gathering in Jerusalem. “All of them [the followers of Jesus] were filled with the Holy Spirit and began speaking in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them”. The crowd who heard them were bewildered. There were Parthians, Medes, Elamites, residents from Mesopotamia, Judea, Cappadocia, Pontus, Asia, Phrygia, Pamphylia, Egypt, Libya, Rome, Crete, and Arabia hearing Jesus’s disciples speaking in their tongues. People of many cultural differences. From Acts 2. In my years of traveling for business and pleasure, I was blessed at having spent time and work in places like Chihuahua- Mexico, Ponce-Puerto Rico, Shannon-Ireland, and Paris-France. I was blessed in having traveled with the church choir and a Bible study group to places like England, Germany, Egypt, Israel, Turkey, Cyprus, Rhodes, Athens, and Rome where I intently observed how people of all ages worked and lived, especially teenagers with their cell phones in hand, their torn jeans, and their unashamed intermingling of cultures and faiths, Christians and Muslims, Catholics and Protestants, Israelis and Palestinians, Hispanics and Americans, French and the British and Irish. Sikhs, Mormons and Methodists. Asians, Caucasians, and people of color from a variety of ancestral cultures, native Americans, African blacks and whites. I met and interacted with people “on the ground” in Austria, Denmark, Norway, Iceland, Hungary, Spain, Portugal, Brazil and the Caribbean islands. On airplanes, ships, trains, buses, in hotels, B&Bs. I continue to meet and have interesting conversations with people here in the USA…people from Bulgaria, Romania, Albania, Bosnia, Serbia, Kenya, Nairobi, Mexico, Cuba, China, and host of other places. Most recently I learned, without realizing it, because of my international travels and relationships, I had a CQ, a cultural intelligence quotient, I never knew I had. Unlike my IQ, my intelligence quotient, or my emotional quotient, EQ, I was practicing CQ which is based on certain distinct components. First, a motivation to learn about other cultures. Particularly prior to my trips, I would read up on as much as I could about the history and culture and language of the people in the country I was scheduled to visit. Their geography. I would go to YouTube and find places to explore visually with others who recorded their own adventures in these places. What works well and what might not work well. The language. Matters of courtesy and respect. And signs of possible disrespect that “an Ugly American” could display without realizing it. Over so many travels in so many places, I learned to become very flexible, patient, and show humility at the times when such was needed. I employed humor where I thought it was practical and avoided humor when I perceived humor didn’t fit in. I watched my hand gestures, body language, and mannerisms more carefully. I tried paying attention to my voice tone and word choices. Jesus came into this world for all people who would hear His teaching, His voice, and change direction and follow Him. Imagine if He had turned away the Samaritans, the lepers, the Roman Centurion, the tax collector Levi (who became Matthew). Or the Sanhedrin. Imagine if Paul would have turned away either Jews or Gentiles. Greek or Romans. Macedonians or Turks. Christianity would be nowhere today. Instead, many Christians give up their old lives, their old selves, and followed and follow Jesus’ calling to go into the world and teach the Gospel, the good news of salvation and eternal life. Some we call missionaries. Others evangelists. Tele-evangelists. Neighbors. Care-givers. Disciples. Bible teachers. To engage successfully with people of varying cultures, we must repent of our pre-conceived notions about people of other cultures and attain a higher CQ level than where we were before. A higher degree of respect for people and their differing cultures. Being a Christian, in part, makes this easier, because Jesus showed us the Way. Chet Klinger To learn more about CQ and how to improve on understanding and working successfully with people of different cultures, whether internationally or here in our country, check out https://getpocket.com/explore/item/the-hidden-talent-that- determines-success?utm_source=pocket-newtab
15 | ANONA MAGAZINE
GrowFaith
Gary Thomas, Director of Pastoral Care | gary@anona.com | (727) 585-2581
The Wesley Challenge, 21 Days to a More Authentic Faith, by Chris Folmsbee.
Renew your passion and discover deeper commitment to God in just 21 days. The Wesley
Challenge not only offers an introduction to our denomination’s founder in a practical and
accessible way, but also engages small groups to work through twenty-one questions to
help renew passion and discover a deeper commitment to God and others—one that is
more authentic, vulnerable, and soul-shaping. Daily posts and messages are designed with
an emphasis on graphics and short content bits to engage your physical, emotional, and
spiritual lives throughout the study. This study will coincide with the sermon series in April
Class starts the week of April 11th with specific days and times to be announced.
Book for class: The Wesley Challenge Participant Book ($10 – $15) can be ordered from
Cokesbury, Amazon, or your favorite on-line book distributor.
Coming in May
Acts – Catching Up With The Spirit
There’s no better explanation for how to live out the Great Commission of Christ than in
the book of Acts. It is a unique and crucial book that chronicles the story of God’s grace
flooding out to the world through the lives of the apostles in the decades immediately
following Christ’s ascension into heaven. In Acts: Catching Up with the Spirit, author and
biblical scholar Matthew Skinner explores six key themes that illustrate the ways in which
reading Acts is capable of igniting our imagination about the character of the Christian
gospel, the work of God’s people (the church), and the challenges of living faithfully in a
complex and changing world.
This study will coincide with the sermon series starting May 23, 2021
Women’s Ministries
WOMEN’S BIBLE STUDY
The Women’s Bible Study classes warmly invite you to join us on Zoom until in-person classes can meet again safely-- whether
you are young or old or in-between, a member of Anona or another church or not of any church; whether you want to go
deeper into the Christian faith or simply have a lot of questions about God. In April -- through the teaching of Paul and other
apostles-- we will look at the transforming power of the Gospel and the Holy Spirit to grow and form a faithful Church of Jesus
Christ. Zoom in with us Tuesdays at 7 p.m. or Thursdays at 10 a.m. Call Ginny at 727-204-6554 to receive a Zoom invitation and/
or more information.
UNITED METHODIST WOMEN
The Anona UMW meets the third Thursday of the month at 1:00 p.m. in Room 110. All women are welcome to join and as we
gain spiritual enrichment and social issues awareness as well as provide support for mission programs.
MARY FELLOWSHIP
We are a community of spiritual and spirited women who care deeply for each other. We especially invite newcomers to share
our experiences with prayer, Christian devotions, and a program. Please contact Judy Crossman at 607-259-0106 or kjcgram@
yahoo.com to receive a ZOOM link to our next meeting.16 | ANONA MAGAZINE Small Groups, Activities, and Fellowship Groups are beginning to meet on-campus while others are continuing to meet online. Contact the group leader to find out how you can get involved. COMPASS, 1ST AND 3RD SUNDAYS OF EACH MONTH, 7:30 PM—Are you between the ages of 18 to 23 and newly transitioned from high school to college or career? If so, Anona has something just for you! Compass is a young adult ministry we invite you to explore. As you embark on your new journey in life, you don’t have to navigate the waters of life alone. Whether you live locally or are just visiting during school break, email youngadults@anona.com to find out how you can get involved. BOOK CLUB, MARCH 28, 6:30 PM - ZOOM: Love to read? Join our group on Sunday, March 28 at 6:30 PM for a fun ZOOM dscussion of Louise Erdrich’s The Round House, as she transports readers to the Ojibwe reservation in North Dakota, where a boy takes on the responsibility of a man by seeking to right a terrible injustice against his family. The author is a Pulitzer Prize Finalist, known for chronicaling Native American life; the journey, worth the taking. Get in touch with Deanna Comingore, deannacom@att.net, if you need to get the link to join the discussion on the 28th. BIBLE FELLOWSHIP, SUNDAYS, 9:30 AM: An adult group that seeks to understand God’s Word and apply it in practical ways to everyday experiences. Focus is on study of books of Scripture for sharing and discussion. Leaders to Contact: Phil Marshall T’AI CHI QI GONG, WEDNESDAYS 9:30 AM IN WORSHIP CENTER This mind-body practice has value in prevention or treating of various health problems. GET STARTED EVEN IF YOU ARE NOT IN SHAPE, LOW-IMPACT, SLOW MOTION EXERCISE. You can now join online via ZOOM. Contact: vadamae@everestkc.net. FAST CROWD, SUNDAYS 10:30 AM ON ZOOM: A large class that enjoys fellowship and Bible study using a wide variety of curriculum to bring faith to life in light of today’s world. Class largely includes individuals and couples in their forties up to retirees but all are welcome. You can visit our webpage for zoom details: www.anona.com/adultgroups. MEN’S BIBLE STUDY, MONDAYS 7-8 PM ON ZOOM All men are welcome to this group as we study the Bible, prophets, scripture, and more. HOPE CANCER SUPPORT GROUP, 6:30 PM, 1ST AND 3RD THURSDAYS: No matter where you are in your journey, we are here to help. Caregivers are also welcome. Contact Teresa Elder: eldergators@gmail.com; 727-458-6843 or Jackie Gerald, nanakca@ hotmail.com. We are continuing to find ways to connect, please don’t hesitate to contact the leaders of this group to learn more about Hope Cancer Support at Anona.
17 | ANONA MAGAZINE
Unearthed ACADEMY OF ARTS
Dina Meitner, LCSW | Anona Counseling Center Director Sandy Ross
SANDY RETURNING TO IN PERSON
TEACHING AT THE CHURCH. I am so
excited that I will be able to return to
teaching at the church on Monday,
April 12, 2021. I want to thank all
my students and parents for their
prayers, gifts and encouragement
during my hospitalization and
recovery. All COVID precautions
will continue. Your temperature will
be taken and hand sanitizer and
masks required. The teaching room
and instruments will be disinfected
between each student. It will
Have you ever gone on an internal That bright light, that windstorm, certainly be a beautiful day when
journey? It may have been a spiritual that wrecking ball are all God’s way we can return to our pre-COVID
discovery journey, or a personal growth of shaping you. Even if you face routines!
journey? the unearthing process with some
trepidation, know that God’s got you. OPEN ENROLLMENT: The Academy
If so, you know it may not have been offers individual music lessons to
pretty. It may have been messy. You “Create in me a clean heart, oh God, children, youth and adults of all ages
may have unearthed thoughts and and renew a steadfast spirit within me. “ on piano, guitar, ukulele, bass, violin,
emotions that shook your world. But ~~ Psalm 51:10. and music theory. Register online
you were transformed when you at anona.com/academy or contact
emerged. As our church explores the topic of “our Director Sandy Ross. Beginning to
mess,” thoughts could cause strong advanced students welcome. We
I heard a former non-believer once say emotions. It is normal, and new growth work with your schedule whenever
her life was a mess. Then, she accepted is coming next. Just know that if it is too possible.
Jesus. She thought, all will be better much of a challenge, your Counseling
now, but instead it was like a giant Center, Stephen Ministers and Pastors VIRTUAL LESSONS AVAILABLE: Virtual
wrecking ball was tossed through her are here to help you bless that mess lessons on Zoom are available If you
life. and help you unearth the message in would prefer virtual lessons instead
the mess meant just for you. of in person lessons at the church,
I liken it to a windstorm: God’s way of Zoom is easy to download and use.
shaking all the old stuff away from the Oh God, transform this mess, please! Please email or call Sandy if you wish
tree so it can sprout new growth. to participate in Zoom lessons and
Dina Meitner, LCSW we will work out a day/time that
The last two months we talked works with your schedule.
about Transforming Your Tomorrow.
We explored how giving yourself The Anona Family Life Counseling DONATIONS: Contact Sandy Ross if
permission to heal, grow and live is so Center is an Outreach Ministry of you have a donation to the academy.
vital to being able to thrive emotionally. Anona UMC and is pleased to offer Tax receipt given upon request.
If you’ve embarked on some of that confidential professional counseling
personal work, then you’re aware how services as well as educational and CONTACT INFORMATION:
growth can shine a very bright light on personal growth classes, groups and Director Sandy Ross
all the areas that need your attention – seminars on a variety of topics on a fee caseychev@aol.com
a.k.a, “the mess.” for service basis. Contact us at 727- 727-430-1316
422-9654. anona.com/academyOur Members
For a list of birthdays, please call the church office at 727-595-2581
Anniversaries 25th and Above
03/03 Tom & Molly Schaaf 37 yrs. Wayne & Kathy Sincich 36 yrs.
03/04 Ian & Chris Collinson 54 yrs. 04/07 John & Gina Stransky 43 yrs.
03/06 Tony & Mary Colletti 26 yrs. 04/08 Michael & Mary Cimarik 27 yrs.
03/07 Mike & Linda Zagorac 51 yrs. 04/09 John & Theresa Leinbach 38 yrs.
03/09 Doug & Cindy Hoover 41 yrs. 04/12 Mike & Evie Bowles 63 yrs.
Bill & Nancy Kelsey 36 yrs. Mike & Linda Wood 34 yrs.
03/15 David Shearer & Bonnie Sullivan 31 yrs. 04/14 Steve &Karen Horning 41 yrs.
03/17 David & Cynthia Tollon 48 yrs. 04/18 John & Rose Schultz 29 yrs.
03/18 Cary & Elizabeth Auderer 26 yrs. Garry & Mary Watson 51 yrs.
Michael & Carol Fagin 26 yrs. 04/19 Herb & Mary Leslie 73 yrs.
03/21 Phil & Jamie Merritt 29 yrs. Doug & Mary Manning 35 yrs.
03/23 Jim & Jacky Saeger 36 yrs. 04/20 Rowe & Helen Hudson 54 yrs.
03/24 Bob & Debbie Backus 29 yrs. 04/22 David & Mary Halliday 43 yrs.
03/25 Dan & Sandra Burke 27 yrs. Don & Pat Morrison 66 yrs.
Jim & Sheila Olliver 43 yrs. 04/23 Jon & Sheryl Harms 38 yrs.
03/28 Mike & Karen Silvernail 57 yrs. Chris & Susie Moritz 55 yrs.
Russell & Danielle Welsh 29 yrs. 04/24 Gary & Lori Beese 45 yrs.
03/29 George & Patricia Smith 53 yrs. Chuck & Jean Lutton 67 yrs.
03/30 Dan & Maridel French 49 yrs. Michael & Susan Nagy 40 yrs.
Sam & Pat Lester 46 yrs. Tom & Cindy Showalter 34 yrs.
Kevin & Kim Morgan 30 yrs. 04/25 John & Linda Murphy 29 yrs.
03/31 Jeff & Lisa Wittman 31 yrs. Thomas & Paige Rapson 51 yrs.
Brian & Katie Yeates 37 yrs. 04/26 Will & Ginny LaBrant 52 yrs.
04/01 Al & Kathy Bouchard 52 yrs. 04/27 Tom & Pat Blandford 64 yrs.
04/02 Bill & Lisa Stiffler 27 yrs. Rick & Lavern Flannigan 47 yrs.
04/04 Harry & Lynn Jones 34 yrs. Rick & Trish McFall 25 yrs.
Tim & Ruth McGee 34 yrs. Paul & Sue Patenaude 25 yrs.
04/05 Bill & Winnie McGill 51 yrs. 04/28 Kevan & Stacia Littlefield 31 yrs.
Jack & Jan Johnson 52 yrs. 04/29 Frank & Barbara Burkett 65 yrs.
04/06 Ron & Linda Cinnamon 53 yrs. Ralph & Nancy Pearsall 33 yrs.
Please be in prayer for:
Bill Kniesly Warren Meier Ed Keif
Janis Kelsey Ian Lennox
An In Memoriam page is on the Anona website (anona.com/inmemoriam) so that we can remember those of our
church family that has died in the last two months and support the families and friends left behind. Please keep these
families in your prayers during their journey of grief. The In Memoriam page will be updated weekly.19 | ANONA MAGAZINE
Our Church
ANONA SUNDAY WORSHIP SERVICE IMPORTANT DATES
8:15 AM: Traditional in Traditional Sanctuary RSVP TO WORSHIP IN-PERSON!
The RSVP form is active each week, from Monday to
9:30 AM: Contemporary in Worship Center Thursday, for the upcoming Sunday’s service.
www.anona.com/rsvp
9:30 AM: KidsMin ZOOM
FAMILY EASTER PICNIC, MARCH 27
11:10 AM: Traditional in Traditional Sanctuary RSVP online or on the app for a fun Saturday event!
Youth Small Group PALM SUNDAY, MARCH 28
6-7:30 PM Middle & High School MAUNDY THURSDAY, APRIL 1 @ 7PM
GOOD FRIDAY PRAYER, APRIL 2
EASTER SUNDAY, APRIL 4
JOIN US FOR ONLINE SUNDAY MORNING WORSHIP
8:15, 9:30, 11:10
LIVE.ANONA.COM OFFICE HOURS/PHONE
Monday-Thursday: 9 AM - 4 PM
Our Staff Friday: 9 AM - 2 PM
727-595-2581 anona.com
PASTORS
Jack Stephenson Co-Senior Minister jack@anona.com 224
Richard Landon Co-Senior Minister richard@anona.com 243
Jeremy Herrington Executive Minister jeremy@anona.com 236
Gary Thomas Pastor of Congregation Care gary@anona.com 225
Casey McKinney Student Minister casey@anona.com 298
STAFF
Jean Berry Office Admin Assistant jeanb@anona.com 288
Terry Collier Anona Christian Counselor terry@anona.com 284
Janice Dean Financial Secretary (Giving) giving@anona.com 223
Jonathan Dennison Director of Technological Arts jonathan@anona.com 226
Marion Denton Dir of Anona Child Dev Center dentonm@anona.com 249
Jackie Evans Director of Missions jackie@anona.com 409
Penny Kolba Admin Assistant-Worship Arts penny@anona.com 237
Scott Magness Director of Facilities, Health and Safety scott@anona.com 227
Megan Trunzo Director of Student Ministry megan@anona.com 300
Erin Padgett Director of Communications erin@anona.com 244
Alisa Rushing Church Administrator alisa@anona.com 229
Bonnie Barrow Director of Kids Ministry bonnie@anona.com 230
Colleen Rabe Associate Director of Traditional Worship colleen@anona.com 222
Shawn Seward Director of Infant & Preschool Ministry nursery@anona.com20 | ANONA MAGAZINE
Non-Profit Org
ANONA UNITED U.S. Postage
PAID
METHODIST CHURCH Permit #4000
St. Petersburg, FL
A MULTI-SITE Community
13233 Indian Rocks Rd.
Largo, FL 33774
VOLUME 2021
ISSUE 3
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