Stephen Ministry
Could you or someone you know benefit from a Caring Christian Stephen Minister?  Is support needed  for health issues, divorce, marriage difficulties, child rearing, teenage conflicts, job loss, depression, empty nest syndrome, or other life challenges?  If so, please contact Pastor George Weitzel or Pastor Mark Smiley to request a trained and compassionate Stephen Minister.

THE SPIRE Newsletter Goes Electronic!
You can now sign up to receive the Spire via email, as a .pdf document.  If you wish to do this, please call or email the Church Office.  If you already receive the weekly church Yahoo! email, you will automatically receive the e-Spire.  If you wish to ONLY receive the electronic version, let the office know, and save the church some money. Church email  is office@hisschurch.org  or call 410-668-5665.

Prayer team to be formed in Fall 2011
Pastor Weitzel will be heading up a Prayer Team to pray for the Prayer Concerns and Requests that are raised each week.  If you are interested in being part of this, please talk to Pastor Weitzel, Pastor Smiley, or call the Church Office.

Electronic Contributions to the church
Electronic transfer of payments from your checking or savings account can be made directly to the church.  Throughout the year, even while you are away, you can be content knowing your pledge has been received and is contributing to the work of the Church. One easy to use form can begin or change your electronic contribution amount.  Please contact the church office or Finance Committee for a 2011 form, or download from the website LINKS page.

TWO Paper Recycling Bins!
Hiss now has two ABITIBI recycling bins for paper.  One is in the upper Hiss parking lot, and the second is in the lower lot, near the cemetery.  Bring your papers to recycle and help the church as well as the environment.  No cardboard or plastic bags, please!

HISS Food Pantry
The Food Pantry operates all year and accepts donations continuously.  Donations may be put in the baskets in Room #105 (Son's Spot) or in the narthex/lobby. Canned meats, stews, fish, and beans; canned fruits, vegetables, juice packs, crackers, etc. are all acceptable. Why not make it a habit to throw a few extras in your weekly grocery order, and bring them with you on Sunday.  Thank you.

Prayer Warriors needed!
A  few good "prayer warriors" are needed for the Hiss PRAYER CHAIN.  If intercessory prayer is one of your gifts, or if you are homebound and looking for a way to be of service, and would like to be part of the Prayer Chain, please call the church office to be put on the list. (410-668-5665).

Haiti relief via UMCOR
The United Methodist Committee On Relief continues to respond to the tragic earthquake in Haiti. United Methodists have had a long-standing relationship with Haiti through the Methodist Church of Haiti. Support for relief efforts can be made by making your check out to Hiss UMC and on the memo line write, "Haiti Emergency, UMCOR Advance #418325." As always, 100% of gifts to UMCOR through the Advance support the designated project.  You can also go online to UMCOR.org and donate directly.

The LABYRINTH is open for use by appointment
Please call the Church Office for availability (410-668-5665). The Labyrinth is located in the Fellowship Hall. Upon arrival, please check-in at the Church Office (2nd floor).

Needed: Volunteers to give Children's Sermons
During 11:00 Worship. Schedule at your convenience.  Call Dianne Thompson at the church office 410-668-5665.

The HISS TREE OF LIFE
The Tree of Life is located on the wall in the narthex (lobby.) Add  a leaf to the tree by picking up a form from the holder next to the tree. The leaf can be imprinted to honor a loved one. Cost per leaf is $780.  The HISS TREE OF LIFE grows to support the Capital Improvement Fund.

Junior Church Volunteers Needed
Children ages 3 years - 2nd Grade attend Youth Church following the Children's Sermon at 11:00 Worship. Helpers are needed!  For information, Please Call Denise Jones at 410-665-4527