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Published: 19 January 2021

All of our college-age students are invited to join Pastor Danny and Joy for a virtual game night this Sunday, January 24, at 7:00pm via zoom. You will need a computer or tablet for the zoom call and another smart device for the games. Please share the link with friends, hope to see you then! Contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for the link.  

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Published: 19 January 2021

You are invited to join the Mission Central Parish UMW Book Club meetings held on the 4th Thursday of each month.  The book, “My Husband’s Daughter,” by Emma Robinson has been chosen for the next meeting being held on February 18, via Zoom, led by Sharon Welsh of Cranberry UMC.  New members welcome.  Contact Sharon at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for meeting invitation. 

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Published: 18 January 2021

Ladies welcome!  The 4th Tuesday Book Club will be discussing Fannie Flagg's new book, "The Wonder Boy of Whistle Stop," on January 26 @ 7:00pm via Zoom.  We would love to have you join us!  Contact Jane Giuffrida @ This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for further information. 

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Published: 18 January 2021

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Published: 18 January 2021

PRAYER SUGGESTIONS FOR HUMAN TRAFFICKING PRAYER VIGIL 2021  

PRAY FOR: 

• the victims of human trafficking and their families. 
• those who are rescued, transitioning, and being restored to a new life. 
• protection for our young people that they might not become victims. 
• those who suffer in the throes of human trafficking who seek to be rescued. 
• stronger legal penalties for those who traffick in humans. 
• more facilities for those rescued to be established. 
• the families of those who are addicted to drugs and alcohol. 
• those who struggle every day to stay clean and free of drugs. 
• all who work with trafficked victims and addicts as they journey with them to healing with compassionate care. 
• trafficking industry to be interrupted during Super Bowl weekend and traffickers arrested and victims rescued. 
• those who do not yet know Jesus as their Lord and Savior. 
• all pastors who minister to families who suffer because of drug addiction and human trafficking. 
• God to change the hearts of those who traffick other humans and those who deal in drugs. 
• God to show us, as individuals, ways in which we can use our gifts and graces to minister to those who are hurting. 
• all leaders of our world and country that we might experience unity, stability, respect and compassion for all, acceptance for people who are different from us and for domestic and world peace. 

Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.   Philipians 4:6-7  

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Published: 18 January 2021

We wanted to let everyone know that unfortunately we are cancelling our 2021 Summer Youth Mission Trip.  Although the need remains great in the areas that ASP serves and ASP has put much time and energy into developing new protocols to help keep participants safe, FUMC's ASP Board has made the decision to cancel going this summer.  The uncertainty of both the status of the pandemic and the availability of the vaccines makes us unwilling to make a commitment that we are not sure we can keep.  ASP has indicated that they are developing a curriculum for an "at-home" study that groups could use this summer that includes a spiritual program, education/advocacy, a local project of your choice and fundraising (for the local project and for ASP).  We will certainly look into this as an option and would let everyone know should we decide to use this "at-home" model.   If anyone would like more information on planning a family work week or a smaller group of 7 perhaps, please check out the ASP website at http://www.asphome.org.

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Published: 18 January 2021

9:00 am - Sunday Morning LIVESTREAM (use the same link to watch anytime after 10:15 am)

Join us for worship as we celebrate the season of Epiphany! Please chat with us and let us know where you are worshipping from! 

Target Date for Inside Worship: February 20-21: The beginning of Lent 

The covid task force has met and in earnest prayer presumes that once the positivity rate for covid approaches 5 percent again, that we will be able to meet for inside worship.  While we will still maintain our protocols for the sake of all our members, our hope is to open with all three worship services! 

Saturday evenings will be in the gym with singers on the stage; Sunday morning worship will be at 9am and 10:15am with livestream here to stay at 9am!!  A modified Sunday School program will also take place in three locations throughout the building during the 10:15 service.  Small group meetings will begin again in the building in March.   We anticipate our spring fair to be held outside this Spring.  

Learn more about the vaccine, when it is available to you and how to sign up to receive it. https://harfordcountyhealth.com/harfordcovidvax/

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Published: 16 January 2021

We are collecting groceries for the Sharing Table and the local food pantries. Thank you for your generosity! 

• Peanut butter and jelly
• Spaghetti and sauce
• Tuna cans and Mayonnaise
• Canned Hams or other meats
• Cereal
• Spaghetti O’s
• Chicken Noodle ( or similar) soups kids might like
• Canned Green vegetables
• Fruit cups or canned fruits
• Baked Beans
• Snack sized chips, pretzels

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Published: 16 January 2021

This is a tumultuous time with the COVID virus invading every aspect of our lives and the unrest surrounding the change in government.  “It’s a time when we need to be kind and honest with each other keeping what is most important first:  becoming more like Christ, perfected in love.  It’s a new world out there requiring renewed Christian people to shine the gospel light to blaze the trail forward.  We are excited to be on the journey with you and ask that you join us praying daily for all that is before us as people, as families, as a faith community, and as a nation.” 

Karin and Danny invite you for a 30-minute time of prayer Friday mornings at 7am via phone.  Just dial in and join:  Call 978-990-5000, put in access code 984939#. 

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Published: 13 January 2021

Confirmation Class begins on January 31 via zoom.  7-8pm two Sundays each month.  Please email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to sign up.  7th graders and older sign up soon! 

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Published: 13 January 2021

We will be burning the mortgage!  Many thanks for all of your support through these 20 years as we paid off 1.9 million dollars!  Join us online for a video that shows the history of the mortgage and celebrate with us! 

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Published: 13 January 2021

LIGHT THE DARKNESS – January is the month where we especially focus on human trafficking and the victims of this horrific practice in our own communities. Here are the ways you can participate: 

1. Pray - Watch the Prayer Vigil Service from this past week. - Prayer Vigil Link
2. Keep a tree on outside your home and a candle in your window to share with the world about human trafficking. Make a sign that says, “stop human trafficking.”
3. Pick up an armband and keep spreading the message.  Become aware of the signs and what to look for.  Go to thesamaritanwomen.org and learn more.

Here’s a note from the Samaritan Women:  The Samaritan Women is bringing light the darkness for victims of domestic human trafficking and raise awareness about the lack of services available to survivors.  With an estimated 200,000 children exploited each year in America – there are only about 177 shelter homes or 1,400 beds throughout the country to serve this vulnerable population. In recognition of National Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention Month, The Samaritan Women is asking each person to light the darkness with a candle, cell phone, car lights, etc. and bring attention to the darkness surrounding this insidious crime.

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Published: 12 January 2021

We will provide 500 nurses with a beautiful thermos/water bottle as we honor their role during this pandemic.  They have gone the extra mile.  If you would like to help in this honoring, you can do so in 2 ways: 

1. Give by writing or check or going to our website.
2. Create a small card to be placed inside the water bottles, saying thank you.  Include a prayer if you like and the name of the church.   

Distribution: We will be inviting those who are nurses in our congregations to receive one of these special gifts and close relatives of our members who are nurses.  Then, we will distribute to a hospital with the assistance of the chaplain’s office.   

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Published: 12 January 2021

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Published: 12 January 2021

Our worship series coming up is all about the names of Jesus—Son of God, Prince of Peace, Good Shepherd, etc.  Beginning Tuesday, January 19, dive with us into scripture as we learn about who Jesus is in our lives and in our world.  Sign up by emailing This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..   We will use a variety of resources including a video component by Tony Evans.  Books are available at Fallston in the Welcome Center ($8) or we can mail you one.  Be ready to explore a variety of theological perspectives, some which might challenge your thinking.  It will be fun to deepen your own learning through seeing alternative points of view.

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Published: 11 January 2021

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Published: 11 January 2021

Adult Sunday School started a new study on January 10th, reading and discussing the book, The Anatomy of Peace over 6 weeks by Zoom.  All are welcome!  Some have read the book before, but with the turmoil that has touched so many of the past months and the uncertainties we face going forward, I think now is the time to revisit the topic.  Let me, Sharon Gardner, know if you would like to join the study at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. and I will forward you the Zoom Link.  Click here to purchase the book from Amazon.  It can be purchased elsewhere, just make sure that you purchase the third edition. 

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Published: 11 January 2021

Our prayer shawls and blankets (contact free) are available for those in need of prayer! If you would like prayers for someone and/or a blanket, please email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. and/or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. 

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Published: 11 January 2021

Stephen ministers are actively working to connect with their care receivers. If you would love to have someone to talk to during this tumultuous time, Stephen Ministers are practicing social distancing and are available to connect through phone, text, email, face time, Zoom or Skype. Stephen ministers will provide Christian encouragement through scriptures, prayers and a listening ear. What a great way to bring God and his Word into our everyday life during COVID 19. Please email Pastor Karin to receive support from a Stephen Minister. This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

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Published: 11 January 2021

Each Monday, Debb Mace and Marc DiPasquale serve at Manna House.  If you would like to help serve occasionally, they meet at church at 6:50am and return by 11am.  Collecting for Manna House this week:  Adult Size Hats, Gloves and Socks!  Any questions, please contact Debb Mace at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

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Published: 10 January 2021

Friends, Easter is April 4. We will be holding a Lamb of God cake decorating contest the week of Easter.  They often sell out of the molds so buy yours now on Amazon and be ready for some fun as we celebrate Easter.  Different categories too—funkiest lamb of God, traditional, hippy lamb…what’s your story line going to be?  Here is the link for the lamb of God cake mold!!  Cost is $15.00.  Or you can cut your own! 

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Published: 10 January 2021

Many thanks to those who have converted to EFT giving.  We are blessed to have such a caring church family.  If you are interested in setting up e-giving, you have 2 options: 1. You can click, download and complete the attached form and email it to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or mail it to the church and we will set it up for you.  2. You can set up online giving through our website (www.fallstonumc.org).  Go to “e-Giving” (bottom of the page) and click on “Give Now.”  From there you can setup a profile and indicate the fund, dollar amount of your giving, the frequency (one time, once a week, once a month, etc.) and start date of your e-giving.  If you have any questions, please call Carole Cover at 410-877-7255 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

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Published: 10 January 2021

ANGEL GIFTS:  We can be Angels all year long!  Consider picking an item below in memory of, in honor of, or simply as a gift for someone special.  Perhaps you are looking for a birthday gift for someone or a congratulations moment.  Your gift in honor of someone empowers them to change the world!  Here is how it works:

Select the gift you would like from the list below.  Send your check or go to our website and to the giving page, select angel gift.  Then, send us an email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. so that we may acknowledge your thoughtfulness on their behalf. Please identify: (a) the gift; (b) your name and address; (c) the person to whom you would like a card sent, and their address. 

ANGEL GIFT LIST: 

1. Night of Shelter--$75.  Assists homeless folks in the hard winter months.
2. Camp Awesome Activity—any amount of money.  This supports our now infamous summertime program during our 10:15 worship time.
3. Vacation Bible School—any amount of money.  This generally costs $2000.  We offer it free to kids and free dinner to kids and their families.
4. Grocery Store Gift Card--$25.   For our families in need.
5. Gift of education--$90 buys 3 months of education for a child in Haiti where they all must pay for school.
6. Manna House--$400 buys a day of breakfast for all the guests! We supply the volunteers.
7. Inspirational Signs that keep the community encouraged! - $50.  We get so many comments on our signs.  They make people smile!
8. Gift cards of any amount for our families in need.  The adults are so grateful.
9. Art for our newly renovated Providence halls and classrooms.  We want to use pictures of the congregation in action set on a canvas, 24 x 36.  Each one costs around $50.

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Published: 10 January 2021

If you would like to order flowers for the altar to honor, celebrate or in memory of someone, please send your request to Alison DeVack at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..  Your request should include the wording that you would like to appear in the bulletin and if you intend to pickup/take the flowers after Sunday service. Centerpieces are $30; Rosebud $7 (specify color).  Make your check payable to FUMC and note “altar flowers” on memo line.  What a great way to honor someone special! 

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Published: 10 January 2021

The services for the past two weeks are listed below. Click to watch again or to forward to a friend. If you missed a service not listed, feel free to email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for the direct link.

• January 17, 2021
• January 10, 2021
• January 3, 2021

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Published: 08 January 2021

Dear Friends,

As the New Year begins, we are aware of darkness that pervades our world and endangers our very way of life.  The covid virus right now is the biggest culprit.  We are tired if not sick of it and cannot wait for the day to be back in church, to hug a friend or grandchild, and to enjoy the places we go on a regular basis.

Then there is the darkness that is surrounding the change in government.  Whatever your politics, we all need to be praying for our nation right now--for a peaceful end to these acts of terrorism in the capital, for voices of reason to prevail, and for change created through conversation rather than violence. In addition, at some point, the nation must once again come together to combat the difficulties the corona virus has placed before us, and get our country rolling again so people have homes and food on their tables.   

That’s where we come in as Christians.  President Abraham Lincoln called upon the people “to find the better angels of our nature” and lay claim to a focus on being builders of peace, and therefore restoring hope and peace the way the Prince of Peace commands.

As Christians, we are called to help those in need and we continue to do so through assistance to our members, to the community, and to the homeless. We also, though, must stand up and reject the ways of the world that would simply offend our Lord and Savior.  Jesus promotes peace, love for one another, and adherence to the laws of the land.

We honor Him when we work for good in the world, when we are patient with one another, when we listen to each other in spite of differences of opinion, and when we can be on the same team in terms of loving one another. It’s about keeping things in perspective and encouraging one another.

It’s a time when we need to be kind and honest with each other keeping what is most important first: becoming more like Christ, perfected in love. It’s a new world out there requiring renewed Christian people to shine the gospel light to blaze the trail forward.  We are excited to be on the journey with you and ask that you join us praying daily for all that is before us as people, as families, as a faith community, and as a nation.

Grace and Peace,  Karin and Danny

PRAYER TIME:  Join us this Friday morning at 7am via phone for a 30 minute time of prayer.   Just dial in and join:   Call  978-990-5000, put in access code  984939#  We will continue every Friday at 7am.

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Published: 07 January 2021

A Guide to Year-End Charitable Giving (written by the Mid Atlantic Foundation of the United Methodist Church)

The MAF manages our endowment fund and provides articles and resources to us.

Most of us would like to be in a financial position to give more to our church. In this difficult economic year we know the financial support is needed and any generous gift will be used for a good purpose. Fortunately our government’s tax laws can offer incentives that encourage support of the works and dreams of The United Methodist Church and its Ministries. Through careful planning, a year-end gift can allow you to do more for your church family than you may have anticipated and still improve your own financial position, both today and tomorrow.

Three Big Questions… When should you give? What should you give? How much should you give?

For those who itemize deductions, a gift made before January 1 is deductible in the year in which it is made. If you have taken the standard deduction in the past, a gift in the appropriate amount may increase your deductions above the standard limit. This qualifies you for a greater tax benefit. Why does the tax deduction help? Tax deductions can make the cost of donating a charitable gift much less than the value received by the church.

Gifts of Cash

Nothing is easier and simple as giving cash. You can make a general donation, and the church will utilize your gift for the greatest current need. You may also designate a large gift for a specific purpose such as the endowment fund, our youth ministry, the building fund or special missions. A gift of cash may be deductible from your income taxes. However, you aren’t limited to giving cash. In fact, your tax benefits may be even greater if you give other property, such as assets that have appreciated in value.

Gifts of Securities

Stocks or other investments that have grown in value and you have held for more than one year can become a substantial gift, made at a low net cost to you. You still receive a charitable deduction for the donation of these assets, and it’s based on their fair market value on the date of the gift. But there’s a bonus—you avoid all federal capital gains tax that would otherwise be due on a sale of the assets.

If you have suffered a market loss you can take a capital loss yourself. If you own securities worth less now than when you purchased them, sell them and then contribute the proceeds to your church. You can take a capital loss on your tax return—a tax break that is not available should you give the securities directly to your church.

Gifts of Real Estate

Perhaps your first thought is that you don’t own property near the church to donate for use. The fact is, almost any real estate, developed or undeveloped, is potentially a charitable gift. If you’ve owned your home or other real estate for a long time, likely it has increased in value significantly. Your property opens the door to a unique giving opportunity: donate the property outright, place it in trust, or retain the use of it for life. All of these methods will enable you to enjoy personal financial benefits while supporting the church in a meaningful way.

Before you sell real estate that would result in a sizable capital gains tax, consider donating the property, you’ll avoid the tax and realize a charitable deduction for the full fair market value of the property. 

Gifts of Life Insurance

As you review your year-end financial status, remember that a no-longer-needed life insurance policy is a viable gift. Policies that are paid up may be deductible as gifts for their replacement value (unless that value is greater than the tax or cost basis). Policies that still require premiums to be paid can be given, and the future premiums are deducted from your annual income tax. The donor may additionally qualify for income tax deductions when the church receiving the policy is named as owner and beneficiary.

Gifts That Provide Lifetime Income

Many givers find themselves in a position of holding assets that would make beautiful gifts at some time in the future but currently are required to provide for present needs. By placing such property into a Charitable Remainder Trust, a unique gift arrangement can be made that would provide income for a donor and perhaps a donor’s beneficiary as well. At the end of a specified period (such as the donor’s or the beneficiary’s lifetime), the remainder of the trust assets would be given to your church. Charitable remainder trusts are built with assets you contribute, such as securities, appreciated property or cash.

Charitable Gift Annuities may also be a possibility. A Gift Annuity is a simple contractual agreement made between you and the Mid-Atlantic United Methodist Foundation who will be naming your church as the beneficiary. The Foundation will pay you a guaranteed income for life (or two lives) at a rate based upon your age when you establish the gift. You are eligible for a charitable tax deduction in the year of the gift, and part of the income you receive in the future is tax-free. At the end of your life, the charitable remainder will benefit the church or ministry you have named.

Effectively Timing Your Gift

To provide your estate with a valuable deduction for year-end, timing becomes an issue that requires your attention. To benefit from a deduction this year, the effective date of the gift also must be this year. For example, if you are issuing a check to the church or ministry of your choice, the effective date of your contribution is the date it is hand-delivered or postmarked.

Gifts of securities, on the other hand, require more planning to ensure a deduction this year. The Mid-Atlantic United Methodist Foundation processes these gifts free of charge. The gift is made on the day the Mid-Atlantic United Methodist Foundation receives a properly endorsed stock certificate, or an unendorsed stock certificate and a properly endorsed stock power. If making a gift of securities through the mail, it is best to send each of these documents separately. The date of your gift in this instance is the date of the latest postmark.

What Really Matters

The availability of the income tax deduction helps a charitable person be even more charitable. The focus on the end of the year is designed to remind all donors of the date by which a gift must be made to take advantage of the deduction. Neither, however, is a substitute for the desire to help charitable organizations. You support our church because you believe in its ministry and mission. And for that, we thank you.

If you would like more information about any of these giving opportunities, please contact Carole Cover (cThis email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.) and she will put you in touch with one of our finance team members who can assist.

Thanks for your generosity! 

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Published: 02 January 2021

We have established a 501c3 to allow us to engage in broader mission and receive funds from foundations, grants, and employers.  More details will be forthcoming about specific projects  that can be supported through the MCCS.  It’s a great way to engage with our community and other churches as together we do amazing things for the least, the last, and the lost.

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Published: 31 December 2020

Joann Crafts of Bel Air has brought Patriotic Fleece from all around the state of Maryland to the Bel Air location to assist with the 1111 Project!  Much of the patriotic fleece is on sale or on clearance. Joann Crafts has been a wonderful partner throughout the past year and we are grateful for their support!  778 blankets have been delivered so far to the hospitals for veterans.  We are so appreciative of all your help.  We are hoping to continue this project for months to come.  Every week, there are 20 veterans who generally come in and out of Upper Chesapeake. Thank you for your continued generosity. 

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Published: 29 November 2020

Thank you for continuing to use the This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. email for announcements you wish to be placed in the bulletin, on the website and/or in the weekly e-Enlightener. This email automatically distributes to Carole Cover, Alison DeVack, Tonya Chandler and Pastor Karin. Thank you for having all bulletin and e-Enlightener information in by Tuesday at 6:00 pm each week. 

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Published: 01 September 2020