Announcing a 5K Run/Walk and 1 mile Fun Run on June 12, 2010! 

Many of you are probably aware that Jonathan Spangler, our youth leader, and his wife Kori are in the process of adopting a child.  However, you may not be aware of the details. The Spangler’s are embarking on an adoption journey which will lead them to the country of Africa! This beautiful land has been affected by years of political unrest, war, famine, and disease.  The remnants of which are millions of orphaned children, with an estimated 20% of children dying before their fifth birthday. The leading causes of death in Africa are preventable, such as malnutrition, and malaria.

As their church family, they would like us to travel along. Not in their suitcases of course! There are many ways that we can get involved.  In an attempt to offset some of the cost we are organizing a 5K Run/Walk and 1 mile Fun Run to be held at Oak Ridge Park on June 12th. This event will require potentially 20-30 volunteers.  This is where we need your help!!  Jonathan has done so much for the youth at Oak Ridge UMC. It is hard to believe he has only been here 5 years.  Prayerfully consider showing your love and appreciation for the Spangler Family by volunteering, and/or running, you can make a difference.

To learn more about the Spangler’s adoption journey, or to register for the event, please go to their blog at www.road2rwanda.blogspot.com.  To sign-up as a volunteer, please contact Ted Shelton at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

“Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.” James 1:27