Single Parent Network (ESPN)

E.S.P.N. at BUMC!

WHO ARE WE?

The traditional setting of a mother and father raising children is only a small percentage of family life today, though the specific needs of single parents are often not addressed aggressively enough by our community. 

We believe that single parents are valuable, and if they matter to God, they ought to matter to the church!  This ministry was created to help you raise your children with the love and suppport of others in similar life situations.  All are welcome, whether you attend BUMC or not.

We meet to deepen our spiritual lives through:

• Fellowship
• Sharing our gifts of time, talents, tips and advice with one another
• Praying with and for one another
• Fun low (or no) cost family outings
• Worshipping together
• Bible studies
• Parenting seminars
• Financial counseling
• Babysitting circle
• Mission Trips

We are NOT:  a dating service

                   a counseling service

                   a pity- party

If this sounds like something you'd like to be involved in, or for more information, please contact:

 "I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through Him who gives me strength."  Philippians 4:11-13(NIV)

EVENTS

Single moms and single women meet every other Saturday morning for a light brunch and bible study at Kristen Cook's house. If you are interested in learning what God's role for us as women truly is, call Kristen at 349-2500 to join.  Great discussion, great fellowship.  Childcare usually available.

Check out the Singles link for upcoming events  as well as MNA - Mon Night Alive bible study at BUMC.

PURPOSE

ESPN = Extraordinary Single Parent Network!

Our purpose is to inform, equip, and connect single parents, empowering them to live joyously and to raise their children to live the abundant life in Christ! 

How do we do this?  ESPN supports single parents and their children by providing encouragement, resources, fellowship, bible studies, support network, seminars, retreats and more!

RESOURCES

SINGLE PARENTS: Classes are available at Beach United Methodist to help you through a variety of topics such as GriefShare, Divorce Care, Crown Financial Counseling, and various bible studies. Just call the church office at 249-2343 to register or for class schedules, or check out the website.

Celebrate Recovery meets every Friday night at BUMC for dinner, praise & worship, a message, and then breaks into small group discussion.  For all those with hurts, habits or hangups!

Get connected in a Small Group!  Click on the Small Groups webpage and find the link for New Group Openings on the BUMC.org home page to get matched with others in a small group setting.

RESOURCE LIBRARY:  I am in the process of collecting and purchasing materials for single parents to check out with a variety of topics dealing with raising our kids to live with Christian values in today's world.  Stay tuned for more info on how this will be available and how to use the "honor" system...

A brand new single-parent newsletter publication has been developed.  Visit www.sparkwisdom4u.com

The following webstes are also excellent reference points for you:

www.spfm.org

www.belief.net

www.spiritualparenting.com

CONTACT US

We welcome your comments and suggestions.  To reach us, or to be added to the weekly email distribution list, e mailto:kristencook2003@comcast.net

SINGLE PARENT OF THE MONTH