Have you checked out the latest updates to the 
Information about programs at Long's Chapel for those who need help and support dealing with the obstacles on the road of life can now be found at one place. Check under Ministries, 
The issues of service over-crowding, lack of needed children and youth class areas, shortage of office space, parking concerns were referred to the Long Range Planning Committee. There have been several focus groups, but where do we stand today? Find out by reviewing the information under Connections, 
Didn't get a chance to attend one of the Long Range Planning Focus groups and would like to add you comments. You can do that in our online 
Handy links to UM web sites of interest are now consolidated under Connections, 
Keep up to date with what's happening at Long's Chapel!
TCI Survey
The Transforming Church Index [TCIndex] is a tool our church is using to gather input from our members and attendees on a variety of topics including: Communications, Outreach, Member Satisfaction, Financial Matters and others. Please take time between now and January 25 to take the survey. You can take it ONLINE; or, if you’d prefer, you can fill out a paper survey by picking one up at the Welcome Center and returning it to the church office in a sealed enveloped by January 19.
Office Closed
The church office will be closed December 25 through January 1; however, the Financial Manager will be in the office December 30 & 31 from 8:30 am to 12 pm to receive end of the year contributions. The office will reopen on Friday, January 2, 2009 at 8:30 am and remain open until 12 pm. Normal hours of operation will resume on Monday, January 5, 2009.
New Member/Inquirer’s Class
Long’s Chapel “New Member/Inquirer’s Class” is the basic introduction to our church family designed to clearly explain who and what our church represents. You don’t have to become a member if you attend this class – it’s just for your information. The class meets six Sundays from 11:00 am – 12:00 pm in the Venue January 25 – March 1, 2009. Each week you’ll learn what we believe, how we operate, and the history of our church. We’ll answer your questions, share information on our church’s future plans, and what it means to be a member. At the end of the six weeks, there will be an opportunity for you to decide whether to complete the process and become a member or not. No pressure whatsoever; we want you to be comfortable with whichever you choose to do.
Confirmation Begins…
Confirmation Orientation will be held January 4 at 11:00 am in the Fellowship Hall. Classes will begin January 11 from 9:45 to 10:45 am in Room 102/105. For more information or to register your child call Shawn at 456-3993 ext. 13.
Spring Musical!
Mrs. Martha Brown is back to direct our children's spring musical, “Life School Musical”! Erupting with some of the coolest music ever in a kids’ musical, ‘Life School Musical’ will captivate your kids from the opening "drum-line" intro to the joyous curtain call. Not only will the music grab their attention, but the Biblical truths in the story can change their lives!
Who: Kindergartners through 5th Graders
When: Wed., Jan. 7 through Wed., March 25
Performance on Sun., March 29
Where: Room 313 in the Children's Area
On Break 'Til 1/7/09
Acts 2:42 Wednesday Night Family Fellowship dinners and the mid-week Oasis service will be on break until January 7.
Holiday Season Program and Class Schedule
- DivorceCare for Kids, Grief Share and Friends for Jesus will resume January 7.
- All Disciple classes, including Jesus in the Gospels and First Place will meet December 3, 10 and 17. Classes will resume January 7.
- DivorceCare will meet December 3 and 10. Program will resume January 7.
Crossroads
Crossroads will not be meeting for a few weeks due to key leaders recovering from surgery. Please pray for Paulette Smith and David Merrell.