Our Connections Catalog is Full of Classes, Small Groups, Bible Studies and Ways to Connect with Others in Faith and Fellowship!
The Connections Catalog is filled with opportunities for you and your family to deepen your journey with Jesus. You will find many ways to actively build connections with each other and your faith through study, outreach and fellowship. Pick up your copy at the church on Sunday, or any time 9-4 Monday thru Friday, download your digital copy here, or read on for the full listing of classes right here.
For Everyone | For Children & Families | For Youth | For Women | For Men | Mission & Volunteer Groups | Support Groups
Everyone
New Member Class
Springboard is a course designed to serve in the following ways:
- New member class for those exploring membership at Parker UMC
- Introduction for those exploring the Christian faith for the first time
- Refresher course for long-time believers who want a better understanding of the foundations of the faith and origins of the UMC
Classes are held once a quarter on Sundays following the second service. Each class lasts 90 minutes. A light lunch is included.
2023 Spring Class | Sunday, March 26 | 11:45 am
The sessions include lunch and introductions to our pastors, UMC & PUMC history; Wesley’s understanding of God’s grace & the means of grace; discipleship; prayers, presence, gifts, service & witness, and an introduction to Worship PLUS as a way to get involved in servant ministry. Contact the church office at 303-841-3979 or email Pastor Laura for more information or to sign up for the next group.
Leaders: Pastor Laura Rainwater
At The Table, Join Us for a Meal and Conversation!
At The Table, we will join together to share a meal, share stories and reflections about life, to celebrate with one another, to create friendships, and to do a mission project together. Every evening is one hour, and all are invited, from the youngest to the oldest and everywhere in-between! We gather the 2nd Wednesday of each month, from 5:30-7:00 p.m. RSVP is preferred (so we know how much food to provide) please email Pastor Cody
Perspectives
Sunday mornings | 10:30 am | Room 144
This is a wonderful Sunday School class that allows for space to ask questions and to dig deeper into the scriptures. There is rotating leadership in this group which offers different perspectives in teaching.
Leaders: Susan Gustin sjgustin@comcast.net and Vicki Brase vkbrase@yahoo.com
Open Circle
Sunday mornings | 10:30 – 11:30 am | Room 138
The Open Circle Sunday School class will start a new series on Sunday, Feb 5th. We will use Adam Hamilton’s “Forgiveness: Finding Peace Through Letting Go”. The class meets Sunday mornings from 10:30–11:30 a.m. in Room 138. All are welcome to join this class. Study books are available in our church library.
Leaders: If you have questions about this class, please call Betty Olson at 720-416-7240 or Marie LaBudde at 303-748-6962 or contact here. Hoping to see you there!
Foundations
Sunday mornings | 10:30 am | Room 137
Foundations is a Bible Study that is open to all! Our class is focused on using scriptures as our cornerstone in studies that help us dive deeper in God’s will, way, and word in our everyday lives. We usually rely on video guided studies and no homework is required!
Leader: Andrew Reynolds, arhere13@gmail.com
Students of the Word
Tuesdays | 10 am – 12 pm | Meets Online
Join our small group for various Bible studies. We meet Tuesdays from 10:00am to noon via Zoom, so you don’t even have to leave your house. We will be using books from the Interpretation Series of Bible Studies. To sign up for this class, please contact Nancy Smith.
Leader: Nancy Smith, nancys70@comcast.net
Contemporary Christian Book Group
1st Wednesday | Evening | Room 216
The Contemporary Christian Book Group meets the first Wednesday evening of the month (excluding January and July). We read a variety of books: fiction and non-fiction, explicitly Christian and not. You are welcome to join us, even if it’s just to take part in the discussion of one particular book that interests you! For more information, contact Susan Gustin sjgustin@comcast.net
Leader: Susan Gustin, sjgustin@comcast.net
The Lord’s Prayer
Sundays | February 26 – April 2 | 10:30 am in Youth Room
A Lenten Study on the Lord’s Prayer will meet Sunday mornings. This group will use the book, The Lord’s Prayer. The Meaning and Power of the Prayer Jesus Taught by Rev. Adam Hamilton.
Leaders: Contact Lynette McKinney or Vicky Brase to register for the class. Please let them know if you wish them to order you a book for $13.99.
Eden Gardeners
Date & Time Varies | We meet at PUMC and other locations
Eden Gardeners is a group of people who are interested in any aspect of plant care or landscaping. Meetings usually include a class with demonstrations or slide shows, either at PUMC or other locations. Our speakers have been encouraging, knowledgeable, and enthusiastic! Some members volunteer to care for the church plants. Join in any time you find a subject that interests you, and enjoy the camaraderie, inspiration, and shared ideas of fellow gardeners! Watch the weekly Midweek Message email for meeting dates, or email Diana to have your name added to the group email list.
Contact Diana Hill, colohills@msn.com or call 303-841-4559
Stephen Ministry
Are you going through a tough time? Would you be open to considering a Stephen Minister to help you through this difficult time?
Stephen Ministry is a one-on-one ministry in which trained Stephen Ministers spend about an hour each week with people who are dealing with life’s challenges. Sometimes these relationships can go on for a month or two; sometimes much longer. The main role of a Stephen Minister is to listen, pray, and provide encouragement. Stephen Ministers aren’t counselors and don’t try to “fix” things. They help by just being present and listening. Female Stephen Ministers are paired with women; male Stephen Ministers are paired with men. And everything that is shared with a Stephen Minister is confidential. Nothing is shared with church staff or anyone else—not even the fact that a specific person has a Stephen Minister.
If this is something you might be willing to consider, contact the church office and someone will put you in touch with a Stephen Minister. Stephen Ministry at Parker UMC is alive and here to help!
Leaders: Susan Bucher ibsusan@centurylink.net & Co-leader: Sara Wahls s_wahls@hotmail.com
Friends Together
First and third Fridays | 10 am – 12 pm | Room 216
“Friends Together” is a faith-based support group for persons who have a loved one with memory loss. We are open to the entire community and all are welcome, no matter where they are on their journey. We can help with resources and support. For more information, contact Marian Gore.
Leader: Please contact Sue Evans
We are happy to provide space for these groups to meet.
Double W’s (Widows and Widowers Group)
This is a group for people who have lost their spouse and are looking for support and connection. There will be a Double W’s Kickoff potluck on Sunday, September 25th at 11:45. For more information, reach out to Ronne Handel.
Leaders: Ronne Handel shirleyeva24@gmail.com 303-690-7274
Dinner Groups
This Spring, we are kicking off new Dinner Groups to be able to get connect and get to know one another. There are several options, including In-Home Dinner Groups, Restaurant Dinner Groups and Daytime Dinner Groups. To sign up, contact the church office or email Pastor Cody Anderson
Lent
3 Simple Rules | Led by Doug McKinney
Wednesday Evening, Starts March 15th, 22nd & 29th | 5:30 and 6 pm |
Gather for supper at 5:30 pm, then join a 3 week study/conversation at 6 pm using the “Three Simple Rules: a Wesleyan Way of Living.” Led by Rev. Doug McKinney, we will focus on Wesley’s 3 rules: Do No Harm, Do Good and Stay in Love with God. This content works well for people starting out on their faith journey and also serves as a good refresher for long-time Christians. Supper will be simply soup, salad and a drink.
Lenten Study: Honest Questions for Deeper Faith | Led by Pastor Cody Anderson
Sunday Afternoons, Starts February 26th | 4 – 5:30 pm | Room 137
This group will be led by Pastor Cody Anderson and meet on Sunday afternoons, beginning February 26, 4:00 – 5:30 pm in room 137. Childcare is available. To sign up, email Pastor Cody Anderson.
Lenten Study: Seeing Through Art | Led by Pastor Cody Anderson
Friday Mornings, Starts February 24th | 10 am – 12 pm | Beginning Soon
This group will be led by various artists and meet on Friday mornings, 10:00 am – 12:00 pm, beginning February 24th. This class will help you explore your questions and faith through several artistic forms, such as poetry, drawing, painting and journaling. For questions or to sign up, email Pastor Cody Anderson.
Children and Families
We Are Happy to Offer
- Outstanding programming for children through elementary
- Opportunities for children and adults to grow in their faith
- Sunday School classes that appreciate varied learning styles
- Many ways for parents and children to get involved
- Preteen group, helps older elementary kids grow spiritually in a fun atmosphere
Nursery and Childcare
Recognizing the importance of high-quality care, our church offers nursery during our 9 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. services and most church activities and Bible studies*
3rd Grade Bibles
Every year we love to give the gift of God’s word to children. Classes are offered to help kids learn how to navigate the Bible. This year, we will be offering 3rd grade bibles on October 9th. To make sure your 3rd grader receives a bible, please email Noelle, noelle@parkerumc.org
Preteen Ministry Group
Do you have a child or know a child in 4th or 5th grade that needs a place to have fun and connect with kids their age while learning about God’s great big love? Preteen group is back! We meet once a month at the church for an energetic and interactive lesson. We laugh, play and sometimes get messy. We are meeting the first Sunday of the month at 3pm.
Volunteers are needed to support this ministry. Please let Noelle know if you can have fun with this awesome group of kids for one hour a month. For more information contact Noelle, noelle@parkerumc.org
Trunk or Treat
Come be part of this fun Halloween Event! Trunk-or-Treat brings trick-or-treating to the parking lot! You can even be part of the fun, decorate your car and pass candy out to the kids, or simply show up and have fun! This year’s date is October 23 from 2-3pm
Visit Santa!
Come visit Santa and take a few pictures! Be sure to bring your letter to Santa, we have an official North Pole Mailbox! Santa is scheduled to come visit us on Saturday, December 17th from 2-3pm
Questions? Contact Noelle Allison, Director of Children and Families noelle@parkerumc.org
Youth
Get Connected
To receive the Youth emails please email AnneMarie@parkerumc.org or contact the church office. You’ll hear about cool events and opportunities first!
Senior High Sunday School | Led by Anne Marie Webb
Sundays | 9 am | Room 144
Senior High Youth (ages 9th-12th) will meet in the youth room, room 144 at 9 am on Sunday mornings for conversation and Bible study. This is open to all senior high youth and will meet every Sunday.
Confirmation Classes | Led by Anne Marie Webb
Confirmation classes are offered to all youth 7th grade and up who are interested in confirming their faith in the United Methodist Church. The 2022-2023 class is underway. Contact Anne Marie Webb for more information about future classes.
Youth Group Activities
Middle School: 3:00 – 4:30 pm & High School: 4:00 – 6:00 pm. Our afternoon consists of a lesson where students are encouraged to grow in their relationships with Christ and also fun and games to connect with each other.
Remind 101 for Youth & Parents
Stay up to date with times and events simply by subscribing to a FREE messaging tool used by many teachers and leaders. To sign up, email Anne Marie Webb
Mission Trips
Every summer a week-long mission trip experience is offered for our youth. They also participate in local missions throughout the year. This year, the youth are going to Little Rock, Arkansas, June 10-17, 2023.
Need more info? Contact: Anne Marie Webb | Call: 720-204-4424
Women
Open Hearts, Open Minds Women’s Bible Study
Every 2nd and 4th Thursdays | 1 – 2:30 pm | Room 138
Frequency: Weekly
Join this group of women who meet to study and discover new understandings of Christian living. Look for details about the current study in the Midweek Message or reach out for information.
Contact Diana Hill: colohills@msn.com or call 303-841-4559
Mom’s Group
Wednesdays | 9:30 – 11:30 am | Childcare Provided
Mom’s Group is a study for mothers of young children. This is a welcoming group for mothers who are looking for connection, support and growing deeper in their faith.
Leaders: Cody Anderson and Noelle Allison
United Women in Faith
2nd Tuesday of the month | 6:30 pm | via Zoom
Our purpose is to know God, to experience freedom as whole persons through Jesus Christ, to develop a creative, supportive fellowship, and to expand concepts of mission through participation in the global ministries of the church.
Parker UWF typically holds four quarterly special events on Saturdays or Sundays throughout the year. The UWF leadership team meetings are open to everyone and we’re currently inviting women to join our Team! It is a great opportunity to share and grow your leadership skills while focusing on our vision of turning faith, hope and love into action on behalf of women, children, and youth around the world.
Contact: Marsha Weber (303) 658-0468 for more info.
Within UWF we have several circle groups which meet monthly or weekly. The focus of each circle is different, but each one seeks to be involved in a mission of their choosing. Every circle is open for new members.
Sarah’s Circle
3rd Tuesday | 10 am | PUMC
Sarah’s Circle meets on the third Tuesday of every month at 10:00 a.m. at PUMC. Focus is reading the books from a published list by UWF. They support La Puente and supply items for school bags.
Contact: Dottie Rasmussen, 303-840-9430.
Telephone Calling
Telephone Calling reaches out to older members of PUMC on a monthly basis. They share a scripture message and a listening ear.
Contact: Cathy Higgins, 720-484-5675
Neighbor to Neighbor
2nd Monday | 9:30 – 11:30 am | Lincoln Meadows
Neighbor to Neighbor meets the second Monday of every month, 9:30 – 11:30 a.m. at Lincoln Meadows. Focus is prayer and connection with one another. Mission is Youth into the World.
Contact: Ruth Wills, 303-693-7365
Clicking Needles
Wednesdays | 1 – 3 pm | PUMC
Clicking Needles meets at PUMC every week on Wednesdays from 1:00 – 3:00 p.m. Focus is knitting and crocheting. Mission is making squares for the Pine Ridge Lakota Native American women to create quilts for their people.
Contact: Ruth Wills, 303-693-7365
Knit One/Pray Two: Prayer Shawl Ministry
Tuesdays | 1 – 2:30 pm
Calling all knitters and crocheters! Our prayer shawl ministry will resume weekly meetings on Tuesdays and we would love for you to join us. Please join us for fellowship, handiwork and praying blessing on those who will receive the shawls. Want to learn how to knit or crochet? We will help you learn.
Contact Julie Kronbach, jkronbach@comcast.net
Men
United Methodist Men (UMM)
The men’s group here at Parker UMC meets at 8 a.m. at the church on the second Saturday of each month (when COVID allows). A small team prepares breakfast and we gather for food, fellowship, a devotion, and a little bit of business with a program of interest. This Saturday morning group is open to men of all ages.
Leader: Contact Jack Kear
Wednesday Men’s Study Group
Wednesdays (weekly/ongoing) | 8:30 – 9:45 am | Room 138
Meet with other men for breakfast, Bible study and discussion on a range of topics. This group has rotating leadership. New members are welcome.
Leader: Ben Dieken (952) 221-8568 or email My1965dodge@gmail.com
Faith Walkers: A Group for Men Building Authentic Relationships for Real Life!
Thursdays | 6 – 7 am | Fika Coffee on Main Street in Parker
Faith Walkers (Est. 2015) is an opportunity for men in their middle years to gather and grow their faith and love for God through fellowship, small group Bible study, and service activities. The foundation of the group happens each Thursday morning where we journey together through spiritually driven guiding questions for men over a cup of coffee. Periodically the group will also help give back by doing acts of service at the Church and in the community.
Leaders : Email Kurt Pritts or call 720-544-3335; email Ryan Woods or call 303-725-6766
Missions and Volunteer Groups
Parker Task Force & Food Bank
The Parker Task Force is dedicated to providing individuals and families in our community with food, limited financial assistance and other support services to help them become self-sufficient. Donations of non-perishable food items to support the PTF food bank can be left in the collection boxes at the PTF table in the Narthex.
Contact: Pastor Cody Anderson or 720-204-4426.
Caring Ministry
The members of our congregation have wide-ranging needs that can be met by the members of our congregation. This Ministry is being launched to address a number of needs. There are so many opportunities. Examples include: prayer, visitation, providing meals, sending cards, making phone calls, connecting people with support groups, and sharing resources for employment, child care, and counseling. Would you like to join this Caring Ministry and contribute your time and talents to meeting the needs of our congregation?
Contact: Pastor Cody Anderson cody@parkerumc.org or call 303-841-3979.
Feed My Starving Children (FMSC)
Parker MobilePack | October 21 and 22
Feed My Starving Children MobilePackTM events allow people across the United States to pack life-giving meals. PUMC has hosted an annual MobilePack® since 2014 bringing together more than 900 volunteers to pack almost 200,000 meals at our most recent event. PUMC purchases each meal packed for 22¢ through donations. This event welcomes broad participation from the community and provides opportunities to get involved throughout the year.
Contact Julie Kronbach: jkronbach@comcast.net
Memorial Service Set Up and Clean Up
When things happen in life, we need help. It takes a village. Our church is our village. Would you be able to help a few times a year set up tables or put out food for our memorial services? It takes a village, and our team needs more names on our volunteer list (men and women). Contact Judy Stephens at stphju3@gmail.com or (303) 478-3558
Audio and Video Technicians Volunteers Needed
If you would like to help lead worship by advancing slides for the music and scripture then we’d like to plug you in to our media booth. Please email Director of Media, Jason Anderson or contact him through the church office.
If audio is more your style, and you’d like to serve at the sound board we have a place for you as well. Please contact Director of Audio Systems, Kurt Bokenkamp kurtb@parkerumc.org.
Community Support Groups
Al-Anon
Tuesdays (weekly/ongoing) | 8 pm | Room 124
Al-Anon’s Purpose is to help friends and families of alcoholics recover from the effects of living with the problem drinking of a relative or friend. Our focus is on ourselves, not the alcoholic. The only requirement for membership is that there be a problem of alcoholism with a friend or relative.
Alcoholics Anonymous (AA)
Tuesdays | 6:30 pm (womens group) & 8 pm | Room 144
Alcoholics Anonymous is an international fellowship of men and women who have had a drinking problem. It is nonprofessional, self-supporting, multiracial, apolitical, and available almost everywhere. There are no age or education requirements. Membership is open to anyone who wants to do something about his or her drinking problem.
Narcotics Anonymous (NA)
Mondays at 7:30 pm | Thursdays at 7:30 pm | Fridays at 7:30 pm | Room 144
Dates: Ongoing | Frequency: Weekly
NA is a nonprofit fellowship or society of men and women for whom drugs had become a major problem. We are recovering addicts who meet regularly to help each other stay clean. This is a program of complete abstinence from all drugs. There is only one requirement for membership, the desire to stop using.
TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly)
Thursdays (weekly/ongoing) | 10:30 am – 12 pm | Room 144
TOPS is an international organization dedicated to sensible weight loss. Men, women and teens from our church and community are invited to join us and learn to make healthier food choices. We give and receive lots of support as we progress toward our goals. Visit a “free” meeting and find our costs are reasonable — national dues $49 annually. In addition we pay $5 monthly dues to cover local chapter expenses for supplies, rewards and prizes. Come at 10:30 a.m. for weigh-in – followed by a meeting from 11:00-12:00.