Seasons. Eastertide. Volume 1: Issue 3. A Publication of First United Methodist Church Olympia, Washington
|
|
- Oswin Morrison
- 5 years ago
- Views:
Transcription
1 Seasons A Publication of First United Methodist Church Olympia, Washington Eastertide Volume 1: Issue 3
2 We Are Easter People 2 On the Sundays after Easter, the pastors will be sharing stories - several from the Book of Acts - about Easter experiences. During the days after the resurrection of the Christ, the early disciples had to re-imagine who Jesus was, and the nature of their relationship with him was transformed. From appearances in the Upper Room and on the Emmaus Road, to the days of Ascension and Pentecost, to Paul on the Damascus Road, and Peter on a rooftop in Joppa, the Universal Christ was made known in new and world-transforming ways. Join us in worship as we explore a Jesus no longer bound by time and place, a Jesus who lives in our highest aspirations and our deepest longings, a Jesus who calls us to act up in liberating faithfulness! Worship With Us! Sunday Mornings 8:45 a.m. and 11:15 a.m. in the Sanctuary First United Methodist Church 1224 Legion Way SE Olympia, WA t f fumco@fumcoly.org Volume 1: Issue 3 Editor and Designer: Sue Sugarbaker fumconews@fumcoly.org First UMC Olympia welcomes people of all ages, all abilities, all sexual orientations and gender identities, all nationalities and ethnicities, the poor and the rich, single people and the many forms of family. First Church is a member of the Reconciling Ministries Network. By Pastor Peter Welcome to the season of Easter! The followers of Jesus celebrate this season each spring, but the truth is that we are Easter people 24/7/365. Every Sunday is a little Easter. During the liturgical season of Easter, we are immersed in the central message of Christianity: new life and new love are found in God through Christ. The Easter message is a daily experience of life for those who, in kindred spirit, have walked with Mary and the disciples into the garden and found the tomb empty, who have heard the holy affirmation, He is not here. He has risen! Easter happens repeatedly. Every day holds new experiences of resurrection as stones are rolled away to reveal the glorious Easter; the forces of darkness and despair, of fear and hatred, of pain and persecution always fail against the power of God s love at work in the world. The alleluias of Easter echo through the ages, for God is always bringing new expressions of life reborn, of love renewed, of hope rekindled, and of justice restored. Easter is the energy which powers the Christian life, the center of our being. I was raised with Easter, and I remember fondly, and perhaps a bit idealistically, the morning each spring when my siblings and I would wake up to an Easter basket filled with candy and new clothes set out for us to wear to church... pastel dresses and bonnets for sister Jane and a new suit jacket or child-sized necktie for the brothers. We would pile into the car and go to church where we would sing Christ the Lord is Risen Today and hear the preacher talk about the empty tomb. After church the family gathering of aunts and uncles and cousins feasted on ham and potatoes and all sorts of good salads and desserts brought by the relatives. There was an Easter Egg hunt in the backyard with brightly-colored plastic eggs filled with more candy waiting to be discovered. Easter, in all its spring freshness, whether it came early or late, formally
3 marked the end of winter. Life had come to the earth. Color had come back into the world. Love won again and we celebrated by shouting, He lives! Maybe you didn t have the benefit of growing up with Easter in your life. Maybe you came to Easter late in life. Maybe, even now, you have no idea of what I am talking about when I say that Easter is the center of our being. Unfortunately, Christianity has long struggled to find the freedom of Easter, for there are forces that work against it furiously. The powers of negativity, greed and envy, fear, selfishness and the quest for power, collectively seek to enslave the human heart, to keep us in our tombs of despair. But the Cosmic Christ comes into every human life, the stones of our tombs are rolled away, and we hear the message that we are called to be more than we are, that there is a better way in the world, that love wins. If... we see God as the giver of grace and the beginning and end of creation itself, then we will be people who generously give and graciously receive love, who know life to be a joyful dance, who are grateful for each moment. The Trappist monk, mystic, and theologian, Thomas Merton once said that Our idea of God tells us more about ourselves than it does about God. If we see God as a law giver and judge over all that is, then we will be people who fear God. Imitating that God, we would become makers of our own little law and ruthless judges of one another. We would live forever in Good Friday, in the shadow of the cross, in the pangs of despair. If, on the other hand, we see God as the giver of grace and the beginning and end of creation itself, then we will be people who generously give love and graciously receive love, who know life to be a joyful dance, who are grateful for each moment. The Easter idea imagines God as the giver of love, and life, and hope in all things. Hear the words of Saint Paul to the Ephesians: God who is rich in mercy, was moved by the intense love with which he loved us, and when we were dead by reason of our transgressions, he made us live with the life of Christ... Together with Christ Jesus and in him he raised us up and enthroned us in the heavenly realm... It is by grace that you have been saved through faith; it is the gift of God, it is not the result of anything you did, so that no one has any grounds for boasting. (Eph. 2: 4 9) You are an Easter person, living in an Easter world. The story of Jesus Christ is the greatest affirmation of this profound truth, but that story has echoed in stories great and small throughout human history, in every life, even yours. You have within you Easter itself. You have life. You have love. Nothing can take that away from you, for it is the very essence of the God within you. God gives you life. God gives you love. This knowledge, this confidence, this belief is Easter. Alleluia! For an excerpt from Thomas Merton s book, New Seeds of Contemplation, please visit our website at:
4 Caring Ministries at First Olympia Stephen Ministers By Pastor Peter Saint Paul writes to the church in Galatia: Bear one another s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ (Galatians 6:2). When the Christian community is operating at its best, it is creating relationships of caring, connections that reflect the compassionate heart of God and the deep call of faith to love as we have been loved. First Church seeks to create these caring relationships as a Stephen Ministry church. Stephen Ministry is a one-to-one caring ministry made up of well-trained lay volunteers supervised by a team of leaders who, after extensive training and consultation with the pastors, work to address human need one life at a time. Stephen Ministers receive 30 hours of training over a 20-week period, learning the best ways to be supportive of persons going through tough times. Stephen Ministers learn to listen and develop other relational caring skills, including learning about community resources for people in crisis. Once trained, Stephen Ministers are paired with a person in time of need and walk with that person through the period of crisis. Stephen Ministers generally give about an hour a week to nurture and guide their care receiver, and the duration of the relationship depends on individual needs. Stephen Leaders are Stephen Ministers who have had additional workshop-based caring ministry training lasting from one to two weeks or more. Stephen Leaders coordinate the overall Stephen Ministry program. Here at First Olympia, we have four active Stephen Leaders coordinating twelve active Stephen Ministers. Stephen Ministry has been an important part of the caring ministries of First UMC Olympia since 1990, during which time 155 Stephen Minsters have been trained and served in our community. Even when a Stephen Minister retires from active service, the skills they ve learned stay with them and help them live Christcentered lives of caring in every part of their life. Barbara Fandrich is one of our Stephen Leaders. She became interested in Stephen Ministry shortly after coming to First UMC Olympia and took the training seven years ago. After a couple of years as a Stephen Minister, Barbara took the more intensive training to become a Stephen Leader and has been a part of the leadership team here for four years. During her time as a Stephen Minister, Barbara has been matched with three care-receivers, and one match has lasted six years. Barbara noted that this was very unusual, as most matches last one to two years. When asked the reason she wanted to be involved in Stephen Ministry, Barbara said, I chose to be involved in Stephen ministry, first, because I wanted to learn to communicate better and have successful relationships. The training appealed to me a lot and the training was amazing, because it was written primarily by a professional psychologist and minister. That combination gave him a lot of insight in Christian caregiving. Barbara is referring to Rev. Kenneth Haugk, a young
5 pastor who, in 1974, realizing the immense task of providing excellent pastoral care in his church, developed the lay-led caring program that would become Stephen Ministry. Haughk recalls that first class: I trained nine lay caregivers in that first class. A secretary. A teacher. An insurance agent. A businesswoman. A student. An executive. A homemaker. A beautician. A retiree. They were ordinary church people, but I was immediately impressed by the seriousness they put into their training and the enthusiasm they showed at the opportunity to be involved in hands-on ministry. After I assigned each of them to a care receiver, I was equally impressed by the care they provided and the joy they discovered as they saw Christ working through them to bring hope and healing to another person. (See for more information about the origins of Stephen Ministry.) Barbara also related that Stephen Ministry has become an outlet and an encouragement for love in her life. Her Stephen Ministry experience expands me with the giving and receiving of love. I don t do it to be loved, but the love I receive is a beautiful reward. Barbara reflected on what value a Stephen Minister s work has for the care receiver. According to Barbara, care receivers get someone to turn to with all their ups and downs, and they are encouraged by the knowledge that we are there for them when things go wrong. I know my care-receiver frequently asks for prayer and appreciates my prayers for her and her family. The relationship is very precious to me. It satisfies my sense of responsibility to God and to my church. The relationship between a care giver and a care receiver is very much a two-way street. Barbara, speaking about one of her matchings says, The relationship is very precious to me. It satisfies my sense of responsibility to God and to my church. It might seem like I am doing something hard... but it isn t really so much hard work as it is meaningful work. I get a lot out of helping. I feel like I m there when no one else would be. We Stephen Ministers are just one piece of a whole caring community, which could include counselors, doctors, therapists, pastors, family and friends. Barbara is a big fan of Stephen Ministry, of course. When asked about the reluctance that some folks might have in creating a caring relationship with a Stephen Minister, she suggested that people should give it a try and see if it works for them. I would say that it is hard to imagine a downside. It is always worth exploring because there is no long-term commitment required. A training session for new Stephen Minsters was just completed and, on May 19, three new Stephen Ministers will be commissioned. Over the next few months these new Stephen Ministers will get their first matches and begin sharing God s compassionate love in this time-tested way. Barbara wishes them well as they begin this work. I have never met anyone who trained as a Stephen Minister and regretted it. Barbara notes that the most recent class, though small, represents three churches. It s important to me that Stephen Ministry is interdenominational. Our area has Baptists, Catholics, and Methodists involved. There are over a hundred denominations involved world-wide. Here in Olympia, we train together and celebrate our work together in regular gatherings. Stephen Ministry is a specialized form of caring ministry. Our pastors are grateful for the commitments made by Stephen Ministers. Pastor Peter says, Stephen Ministers are an important part of the compassionate caring of First UMC Olympia. It might be tempting to think of them as an extension of the pastor s caring ministry, but such a view would actually short-change the program. Stephen Ministry brings laity into caring ministry in a big way, and those on the receiving end of their gift of time and training know that these friends really want to be present there as an act of faithful service. Their gift of caring is truly a gift from God to this community of faith and to our entire city.
6 The Fruit of the Spirit 22 By contrast, the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against such things. Galatians 5:22-23 NRSV) As we enter into the season of Resurrection, let us feast on the fruits of the Spirit in anticipation of Pentecost! When we explore the original Greek we discover the fruits of the Spirit are grounded in relationship. We know we are answering Jesus' invitation to rise into new life when we recognize the presence of these fruits in our relationships with ourselves, others, and God. We invite you to take some time each day to meditate on the following words/concepts and to then write or draw your thoughts in a journal or on a page that you post. Love ~ Agape) In Greek there are many different words for love. The word "agape" is the word used in the New Testament to describe God's love for us, and is the way Jesus invites us to love our neighbor and ourselves. One definition of agape is "unconditional positive regard." In what ways do you see yourself and your neighbors in this way? Peace ~ Eirene) This word in Greek is similar to the Hebrew word shalom. Another definition for these words is "wholeness." Where in your life do you feel whole? Where is this sense of wholeness missing in your local community? What could you do about it? Goodness ~ Agathos) Goodness in Greek is not a state of being, it is the content of our actions. When tragedies and crises arise let us ask ourselves, "What actions are my thoughts and prayers leading me to do?" and then go and do those things. Kindness ~ Chrestos) In Greek the more common definition for this word is useful. Our kindness is useful to building God s kingdom on earth. Why might kindness towards yourself be useful? Joy ~ Chara) This word means "gladness of heart. What makes your heart glad? How can you create moments of joy for others? What makes God's heart glad when God thinks about you?
7 Patience ~ Makrothumeo) In Greek this refers to having patience with others and pausing before action. When you find yourself losing patience with another person, ask yourself this Wesleyan question: "What is the least harm and the most good I can do in this situation?" Write the name of a person with whom you could be more patient and pray for them this season. Faithfulness ~(Piestos) This word implies "assurance" and "reliance." When have you relied on God? When do you struggle to rely on God? What signs of assurance do you hope to see this season? Self-Control ~(Egkrateias) In a season of feasting, self-control may seem out of place. Let us consider an invitation to self-control as an invitation to feast in our moments, to be fully present in all that we do instead of only thinking ahead to what's next in our day. When we practice self-control by being actively present in our lives, it becomes easier to recognize the presence of the Spirit and the Spirit's gifts. What experiences do you hope to be fully present to this season? Gentleness ~(Praotetos) Not to be confused with weakness or timidity, gentleness in Greek is all about how we respond to situations in our lives. For example, we can respond to the broken parts of our world with compassion or with anger and either may be appropriate to the situation. But we cannot dwell in our emotions; we must move into good and kind action. What in our world breaks your heart? How can you move from emotion to good and kind action?
8 Caring Ministry: Grief Support Often, when a death happens in our lives, we are surrounded in the days and weeks following the loss with the attention of our family, our church, and our friends. But over time that attention fades, as though the world somehow expects us to move on with our lives. But grief follows no such schedule. Indeed, grief ebbs and flows like tides, rising and falling in unexpected ways and times. The acuteness of our grief may ease over time, but even years after a loss, we will still experience grief anew as a memory surfaces or an anniversary happens. Because we believe that the faith community can help us through hard times, we have provided space and leadership for an ongoing grief group. God is at the center of the group, for we believe that God weeps with us and laughs with us through all of our sorrows and joys. Members of the group become the light of God s love for each other as they meet together. Meetings of the grief group are punctuated by both tears and laughter as members find a new normal following the loss they have experienced. Each meeting begins with the lighting of a candle as a remembrance of our missing loved ones. Sharing happens around the table as participants check in with one another, answering the question, How is it with your soul today? People speak their hearts, if so led, but no one is ever forced to speak, for the intention is to make this gathering a safe place for all. Over time, a sense of community grows, based on the experience of loss. Every loss is, of course, different. The loss of an adult child, the miscarriage of a baby, the loss of a spouse at a young age, and the loss of a spouse after 50-plus years of marriage all have different dynamics. We don t all grieve the same way, but we all know what it is to hurt, and we all long for hope and healing. Meetings end in prayer, such as: Dear God, though today we may find ourselves in the darkness of our grief, guide us toward your light of love and life. Amen. If you are experiencing grief and think that the Grief Support Group might be helpful, you are welcome to come and share in this supportive community. Contact Chris Knight, or the church office for more details. Meetings are on 2nd and 4th Wednesdays at 5:30 p.m. in the Prayer Room. The State of the Denomination By Pastor Ruth In February, a General Conference, the legislative body of the United Methodist Church, was called to find unity. The Traditionalist Plan passed at General Conference with approximately 52% of the vote. One-third of the United States voted for this plan; two-thirds of the Global church voted for this plan. This plan continues the trajectory of punishment for the ordination of LGBTQIA+ folk and for pastors who perform same gender weddings. However, our Western Jurisdiction, along with several Annual Conferences from around the US and the World have voiced deep concern. Some regional organizations (including our Pacific Northwest Annual Conference) have taken the additional step of civil disobedience to these portions of the governance of the UMC and will refuse to conduct or fund clergy trials for following conscience and call to serve LGBTQIA+ people. So despite this General Conference s purpose, no unity has yet been found over human sexuality. The United Methodist Church has a constitution that guarantees basic rights to clergy and laity, and regional autonomy within the denomination. Many parts of the Traditionalist Plan were declared unconstitutional, and not enough of the Traditionalist Plan was brought into alignment with the constitution; in fact some of
9 the provisions of standard punishments are so completely outside of the Methodist tradition that many cannot see how they can become constitutional. The Judicial Council, the Supreme Court equivalent, will review the many petitions of the Traditionalist Plan individually. We will hear back from them in late April, but we cannot assume that the whole of the plan will be declared unconstitutional. In the following weeks, we will know what decisions from the General Conference will be enacted. While it is impossible to predict what will happen, the good news is that God is never finished with us as a local congregation and as a denomination. Our Church Council, the body of laity that makes the major decisions and undertakes the vision of the church unanimously declared: First UMC Olympia will continue to welcome all people to participate fully in our life together. We will continue to advocate for LGBTQIA+ folks full inclusion in the UMC and other parts of our broader society. First UMC Olympia will continue to partner with community agencies, our Co-Op churches, the Annual Conference, and our ecumenical partners as a fully inclusive organization. We will continue to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world, as we have done throughout this long conflict. Our local congregation continues to serve God in our inclusion and we can continue to listen deeply, pray continuously, and advocate for change at the regional and denominational level. While the global church is in crisis, we can still see the good coming from our local compassion and the global reach of our church. State of the Denomination: What to Look for Next 1. Groups will continue to meet to discuss the future of the church. Adam Hamilton, founding pastor of the largest congregation in the denomination, is convening a series of conversations with powerful leaders in the UMC for a centrist option. There is an invitation to LGBTQIA+ people in Minneapolis to come together and discuss a plan. The Western Jurisdiction s leadership is continuing to meet. Look for statements from these groups about their plans for General Conference June is Annual Conference season, which is the time when regional areas convene, discern God s calling, and write legislation for the governance of their local and regional levels. Look for legislation from Annual Conferences to General Conference resisting the Traditionalist Plan. 3. The Western Jurisdiction has declared nonconformity, therefore the bishops of the Western Jurisdiction become the bellwether of clerical trials. There are no anticipated plans for clerical trials for the Pacific Northwest Annual Conference or the Western Jurisdiction, but look to changes to the structure of the Council of Bishops or College of Bishops for any sense of enforceability of the Traditionalist Plan. 4. Here are a few incredibly useful resources to continue to follow this news: - analysis and commentary on the politics of the UMC - a centrist United Methodist movement and the largest supporters of the One Church Plan - the advocacy network for LGBTQIA+ inclusion within the United Methodist Church - news from around the US about United Methodist topics. - the news from the Pacific Northwest Annual Conference
10 Discipleship in the Season of Resurrection: Accomplices of Jesus By Angelina Goldwell I wrote in the first issue of Seasons that the foundation of discipleship is the greatest commandment. All that we do that leads us to love ourselves, love our neighbors, and love our God better are acts of discipleship. What could discipleship look like in the coming fifty days of Easter? One way to frame our discipleship this season is to consider the meaning of the word resurrection. It comes from the Greek anastatis, literally meaning to to rise up from laying down. When I hear the invitation in the word anastatis I am immediately reminded of the words of Rev. Shalom Agtarap, who suggests that when we decide to get involved in addressing the brokenness of this world to ask, Who do I love and where do they hurt? The answer to this question is different for each of us. Some of us may have struggled with food insecurity growing up and so we have a special love for hungry children. Some of us may have lost a loved one to addiction and have a deep love for people who struggle with sobriety. Some of us know what it is to file for bankruptcy due to medical bills and do not want that reality for anyone else. But these types of brokenness are too big for any one person to address alone. I am reminded of the disciples in Jesus last days. After his arrest some ran because they feared what would happen to them if they were seen as accomplices in his ministry. Some, most notably the women, stood before the cross and then risked going to the tomb to anoint his body. They went together knowing that going to the tomb meant interacting with the Roman centurions there to guard the body and that, depending on who those men were, it could mean trouble and violence. But they went anyway because they were willing to be recognized as accomplices of Jesus. What does it mean to be an accomplice? It means that everyone takes the same risk, celebrates the same victories or suffers the same consequences. When we rise up and follow Jesus into the places where our loved ones are hurting, we take on the mantle of accomplice, we are united in solidarity with Christ and with those whom we love. We know that our salvation, our liberation, is intimately connected to the salvation and liberation of all people. We know that our God is always moving in all times, in all places, and in all people. Therefore, our call as accomplices of Jesus is to walk boldly together into the broken places and join with the kingdom building work already happening there. I invite you during the fifty day season of Easter to ponder these things in your heart, to discern how you can do the least harm and the most good, to step into the good work already in progress, and to invite others to join you. Jesus rose for all of us. For whom will you rise?
11
12 Worship With Us on Easter! 7:00 a.m. at Percival Landing 8:45 and 11:15 a.m. in the Sanctuary We are making disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world by gratefully worshipping God, joyfully learning discipleship, gracefully cherishing one another, and faithfully serving the world under the guidance and through the power of the Holy Spirit.
JOHN s GOSPEL: JESUS IS THE SON OF GOD: 80. Jesus Commissions His Followers: He Sends Us to Others John 20:20 23
JOHN s GOSPEL: JESUS IS THE SON OF GOD: 80. Jesus Commissions His Followers: He Sends Us to Others John 20:20 23 December 3, 2017 AM Pastor Ken Hepner Introduction: The central theme of the Gospel of John
More informationPETITION # L-1 AFFIRMING WESTERN JURISDICTION COUNCIL OF BISHOPS RESPONSE TO JUDICIAL COUNCIL AND THE WESTERN JURISDICTION S COMMITMENT TO INCLUSIVE
1 1 1 1 1 1 1 0 1 0 1 0 1 PETITION # L-1 AFFIRMING WESTERN JURISDICTION COUNCIL OF BISHOPS RESPONSE TO JUDICIAL COUNCIL AND THE WESTERN JURISDICTION S COMMITMENT TO INCLUSIVE MINISTRY Resolved: We, the
More informationSPECIAL SESSION of GENERAL CONFERENCE February 24-26, 2019 St. Louis, Missouri
SPECIAL SESSION of GENERAL CONFERENCE February 24-26, 2019 St. Louis, Missouri The below has been compiled from United Methodist News Service articles plus information from websites of Affirmation, Good
More informationThe One Church Plan Summary of Plan
The One Church Plan The One Church Plan gives churches the room they need to maximize the presence of a United Methodist witness in as many places in the world as possible. Changes to the adaptable paragraphs
More informationSTATEMENT FROM THE APPOINTIVE CABINET OF THE IOWA ANNUAL CONFERENCE, REV. ANNA BLAEDEL, and BISHOP LAURIE HALLER
STATEMENT FROM THE APPOINTIVE CABINET OF THE IOWA ANNUAL CONFERENCE, REV. ANNA BLAEDEL, and BISHOP LAURIE HALLER On April 4, 2017, the appointive cabinet of the Iowa Annual Conference filed a complaint
More informationObjectives for Kindergarten. Creed (K) The learner will be able to understand that God made all things because God loves us. Circle of Grace Lesson 2
Objectives for Kindergarten Creed (K) all things are gifts of God. Bible tells us about creation, the life of Jesus, and that caring for others is living God's love. God made all things because God loves
More informationTrial Use Collects, Prayers over the Gifts and after Communion. Propers 10 to 22 June to August 2015 Year B
Trial Use Collects, Prayers over the Gifts and after Communion Propers 10 to 22 June to August 2015 Year B The following Collects are alternatives to the Collects in The Book of Alternative Services and,
More informationThe Fruit of the Spirit Galatians 5: Introduction
The Fruit of the Spirit Galatians 5:22-23 Week 1 Love Week 2 Joy Week 3 Peace Weeks 4 Patience Week 5 Kindness Week 6 Goodness Week 7 Faithfulness Week 8 Gentleness Week 9 Self-Control Introduction Paul
More informationTHIS MONTH. March/April The Calvary United Methodist Church Newsletter
March/April 2019 The Calvary United Methodist Church Newsletter 1415 Miller, Ann Arbor, MI 48103 (734) 769 0869 calvary1415@att.net http://a2calvary.org minister's message Remember that you are dust, and
More informationLIGHT GREATER THAN OUR DARKNESS Text: John 20: 1-18 April 20, 2014 (Easter Sunday) Faith J. Conklin
LIGHT GREATER THAN OUR DARKNESS Text: John 20: 1-18 April 20, 2014 (Easter Sunday) Faith J. Conklin It was a Christmas Eve some years ago. (Yes, Christmas.) I stepped forward to offer the welcome. I reminded
More informationUNITED METHODIST CHURCH
SPECIAL SUNDAYS OF THE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH The Special Sundays in The United Methodist Church are intended to be illustrative of the nature and calling of the church and are celebrated annually. The
More informationPeace Be With You John 20: Rev. Liz Miller April 27, 2014
Peace Be With You John 20: 19-31 Rev. Liz Miller April 27, 2014 I always feel a little bad for the Sunday after Easter. It's a nice enough Sunday on its own, but it has the misfortune of always living
More informationThe First Stephen Minister Acts 6:1-15; 7:54-8:4 Sermon Preached by Jill Getty December 30, 2012
The First Stephen Minister Acts 6:1-15; 7:54-8:4 Sermon Preached by Jill Getty December 30, 2012 Well, if you thought the early church was perfect and homogenous with a plan already made to take care of
More informationGod of life and death and life again, speak to us today and guide our lives, individually and collectively. In Jesus name, Amen.
God of life and death and life again, speak to us today and guide our lives, individually and collectively. In Jesus name, Amen. Every year, on All Saints Sunday, the church takes a moment to pause, in
More informationSacred Space: A Resource for Small-group Ministry
Sacred Space: A Resource for Small-group Ministry Year C Easter Sunday Scripture: John 20:1 18 NRSV Gathering Welcome Easter is the day Christians celebrate the Resurrection of Jesus Christ. Easter is
More informationOne Long Sentence. Let Week 6: Petitions for Protection.. Do not lead us into temptation, testing, or trials.. Matthew 6.13 (cf. Luke 11.
Let Week 6: Petitions for Protection.. Matthew 6.13 (cf. Luke 11.4) Our prayers have been for daily sustenance and daily pardon. We cannot provide for ourselves; our Father whose mercy is new every morning
More informationRules and Structure Committee
1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 0 1 0 1 0 1 Rules and Structure Committee MOTION: Changes to the 01 Rules and Structure Document section- The Leadership Table The Structure of the Indiana Conference Accomplishing the
More informationTransfigured Faith Luke 9:28-36 Rev. Thomas G. James Washington Street UMC March 3, 2019
Transfigured Faith Luke 9:28-36 Rev. Thomas G. James Washington Street UMC March 3, 2019 This past week, the United Methodist Church held a Special Session of the General Conference. The called purpose
More informationRead Psalm 1:3. How has God cultivated you to bear fruit in season this year?
Chapter 1 Questions for Study and Reflection: Read Psalm 1:3. How has God cultivated you to bear fruit in season this year? When have you experienced a season of singing, as described in Song of Songs
More informationWeek 1 (March 1-4) Weekly Scripture: Joel 2:12-13 Daily Prayers Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday
Lent is a season of preparation, getting our hearts and minds ready to celebrate the death and resurrection of Christ, our Savior and King. We join with believers all over the world seeking personal and
More informationWisdom and Troubles James 1:2-4 (1:12-16; 5:7-11) John Breon
Wisdom and Troubles James 1:2-4 (1:12-16; 5:7-11) John Breon We re starting a series through the New Testament letter of James. This James was one of the brothers of Jesus. He became the leader of the
More informationReconciling in Christ Synods a Synod s guide to RIC
Reconciling in Christ Synods a Synod s guide to RIC ReconcilingWorks believes that God values and embraces each person as a beloved child, that the Spirit gives a diversity of gifts for the common good,
More informationWorld AIDS Day Theme for 2017 WORSHIP RESOURCES FOR WORLD AIDS DAY
World AIDS Day Theme for 2017 WHAT IS WORLD AIDS DAY? World AIDS Day is held on the 1 st December each year and is an opportunity for people worldwide to unite in the fight against HIV, show their support
More informationOUR STRATEGIC PLAN The mission of the church is to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world.
OUR STRATEGIC PLAN The mission of the church is to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world. We make disciples and transform the world by gratefully worshiping God, joyfully learning
More informationCalled to be an Elder
Called to be an Elder If you have been invited by the nominating committee to consider the call to be an Elder, you may desire a way to think about that call and pray for discernment. It is our hope that
More informationSOME ISSUES BEFORE US
Update May, 2018 SOME ISSUES BEFORE US Disagreement about P 161.G Same Sex Marriage Ordination of self-avowed practicing homosexual persons SOME ISSUES BEFORE US Our ability to reach LGBTQ persons and
More informationGuidelines for Catechesis of High School Youth Grades 9-12
Guidelines for Catechesis of High School Youth Grades 9-12 Stages of Development of Youth Grades 9-12 and Implications for Catechesis GRADE 9-12 YOUTH _ becomes more accountable for who I am and who am
More informationThe Christian Life The Power Of Love God has a plan for you and me!
The Christian Life The Power Of Love God has a plan for you and me! Today s Key Word is Love which means Others First The Life of Jesus Christ, our Model for Living GOD IS LOVE AND IS BOTH Personal Love
More informationStations of the Resurrection. Via Lucis, The Way of Light
Stations of the Resurrection Via Lucis, The Way of Light The following prayer form is borrowed and adapted from Saint Augustine s Prayer Book: A Book of Devotions, Revised Edition, edited by Rev. David
More informationSwedenborg addresses the question of our need of salvation in terms of the history of human consciousness.
Who Is Jesus Christ? Swedenborg Theology Course, Session 3 Rev. Jonathan Mitchell The Swedenborgian Church of San Diego Now Jesus and His disciples went out to the towns of Caesarea Philippi; and on the
More informationLiving in Harmony with One Another John 17:20-26, 1 Peter 3:8-9, 3 John 1-11
1 Living in Harmony with One Another John 17:20-26, 1 Peter 3:8-9, 3 John 1-11 Did you hear about the small town where several churches got together to put on an autumn choral concert? On the evening of
More informationJourney. through Lent
Journey through Lent T W O L E S S O N S for Holy Week and Easter 2018 Journey through Lent TRIDUUM Upper and Middle Elementary Materials Handout A: What Is Triduum? Handout B: The Last Supper Learning
More informationSESSION AND THE DIRECTORY OF WORSHIP Presbytery of Detroit Clerk Training January 26, 2013 CHAPTER I. THE DYNAMICS OF CHRISTIAN WORSHIP
1 SESSION AND THE DIRECTORY OF WORSHIP Presbytery of Detroit Clerk Training January 26, 2013 W-1.0000 CHAPTER I. THE DYNAMICS OF CHRISTIAN WORSHIP W-1.4004 Session In a particular church, the session is
More informationTonight Welcome & Opening Prayer (Pastor Laura) 2. How Did We Get Here? (Sabrina) 3. Traditional Plan (Christian)
Opening Prayer 1 Tonight... 1. Welcome & Opening Prayer (Pastor Laura) 2. How Did We Get Here? (Sabrina) 3. Traditional Plan (Christian) 4. Connectional Conference (Joe) 5. One Church Model (Jean) Closing
More informationTRAINING UNIT 20 (35.45 MINUTES)... The 10 th commandment of sending:... Make disciples of all ethnic groups I: The Jesus Model...
1 2 TRAINING UNIT 20 (35.45 MINUTES)... The 10 th commandment of sending:... Make disciples of all ethnic groups I: The Jesus Model... Summary... What is discipleship?... The training model of Jesus for
More informationHosanna. April 2, On the INSIDE. Ecclesiastes 3 reminds God s people gat there is a season to everything.
On the INSIDE Hosanna Wilson Temple United Methodist Church April News Brief April 2, 2017 Ecclesiastes 3 reminds God s people gat there is a season to everything. We are leaving the season of Lent a season
More informationWhy a special session of General Conference?
If you have any questions that are addressed below, email Upper New York Communications at news@unyumc.org. Why a special session of General Conference? 1. What s the difference between a called General
More informationFor those preparing to lead this Local Arrangement Service...
For those preparing to lead this Local Arrangement Service... Greetings! I m so glad you ve decided to use this service for the Own Arrangement service designated on the plan for your congregation. I hope
More informationChurch of the Resurrection Spiritual Journey Assessment Tool
Church of the Resurrection Spiritual Journey Knowing, Loving and Serving God Are you ready for the greatest journey of all? There is nothing in all the world that will bring you greater joy, greater challenge
More informationRULING OF LAW NORTHEASTERN JURISDICTIONAL CONFERENCE
RULING OF LAW NORTHEASTERN JURISDICTIONAL CONFERENCE Mark J. Webb, Bishop August 4, 2016 STATEMENT OF FACTS On Thursday, July 14, 2016, in regular session of the 2016 Northeastern Jurisdictional Conference,
More informationThe Cross and the Flame
The Cross and the Flame A sermon for the Special Session of the General Conference of the United Methodist Church by Kenneth H. Carter, Jr., President, Council of Bishops on February 24, 2019, in St. Louis,
More informationFREE DIGITAL SAMPLE FOR. the week of January 21, 2018 DAILY UNIVERSAL PRAYER AND COMMENTARY
FREE DIGITAL SAMPLE FOR the week of January 21, 2018 DAILY UNIVERSAL PRAYER AND COMMENTARY CELEBRATING 50 YEARS IN PRINT SUNDAY, JANUARY 21, 2018 (Lec. 68) 1) Jonah 3:1-5, 10 2) 1 Corinthians 7:29-31 3)
More informationResources for a 1-hour prayer experience
Resources for a 1-hour prayer experience The basic information needed for this prayer experience will be found below and in Appendix 1: Praying for the General Conference, the Elected Delegates and Alternates.
More informationDavis UMC is Welcoming and Affirming Romans 12:15-18; Galatians 3:28 May 15, 2016 Rev. Kelly Love Davis United Methodist Church
Davis UMC is Welcoming and Affirming Romans 12:15-18; Galatians 3:28 May 15, 2016 Rev. Kelly Love Davis United Methodist Church This church has some particular characteristics that God has shaped most
More informationESSENTIAL TRUTHS OF THE CHRISTIAN LIFE
LESSON 1. A GIFT THAT SAVES God says in His Word in Romans 5:8 that While we were yet sinners, Christ died for us Salvation is the gift of God. It is the gift that saves! This is a gift saves us from the
More informationFirst Mount Zion Baptist Church Small Groups Leader Training Facilitated by: Stephanie M. Craddock Small Groups Director
Equip Yourself to Lead First Mount Zion Baptist Church Small Groups Leader Training Facilitated by: Stephanie M. Craddock Small Groups Director Small Groups Defined Small Groups are relational communities
More informationSermon for Easter VI Year C 2013 Down to the River To Pray
Sermon for Easter VI Year C 2013 Down to the River To Pray I don t know about you, but for one am grateful that we are still in the season of Easter. Because, we need it. Our hearts are broken from national
More informationTOOLKIT for MCC CHURCHES Hosting the PULSE Memorial Service on 12 June 2017
1 TOOLKIT for MCC CHURCHES Hosting the PULSE Memorial Service on 12 June 2017 7 June 2017 Thank you for taking a leadership role in hosting a PULSE Memorial Service to commemorate the lives lost and recommit
More information(000)
1 NORTHWEST TEXAS HIGHLIGHTS (000) 2017 2018 2019 Ministry Support & Leadership $2,087 $2,165 $ Clergy Care & Services 900 550 250 Strategic Priorities 890 925 852 Conference Ministries 867 834 730 Beyond
More informationTHY KINGDOM COME PRAYER OVERVIEW. May th 2018
PRAYER OVERVIEW May 10 20 th 2018 INTRODUCTION The simple prayer Thy Kingdom Come has immense power. There is no limit to what the Kingdom of God does, and so the moment we start praying Thy Kingdom Come
More informationLakeside Sermons Lakeside Baptist Church Rocky Mount, North Carolina Elizabeth J. Edwards, Associate Minister
Lakeside Sermons Lakeside Baptist Church Rocky Mount, North Carolina Elizabeth J. Edwards, Associate Minister APRIL 16, 2017 Echoing Christ Matthew 28:1-10; Colossians 3:1-4; Ephesians 5:1-2 Considering
More informationFinal Words; Final Wish. John 14: Preached by Dr. Robert F. Browning, Pastor. First Baptist Church. Frankfort, Kentucky.
Final Words; Final Wish John 14:12-27 Preached by Dr. Robert F. Browning, Pastor First Baptist Church Frankfort, Kentucky March 18, 2018 Our attention is drawn this morning to the Upper Room in Jerusalem
More informationWhat a Feeling. Focus on Luke 24:36b 48. n PREPARING FOR THE SESSION. WHAT is important to know? WHERE is God in these words?
April 15, 2018 Third Sunday of Easter Acts 3:12 19 Ps. 4 1 John 3:1 7 Luke 24:36b 48 What a Feeling Goal for the Session Tweens will examine another resurrection story and observe the disciples responses
More informationWho Taught You to Pray? Luke 11:1-13. Preached by Dr. Robert F. Browning, Pastor. First Baptist Church. Frankfort, Kentucky.
Who Taught You to Pray? Luke 11:1-13 Preached by Dr. Robert F. Browning, Pastor First Baptist Church Frankfort, Kentucky January 28, 2018 This morning our attention turns to prayer as we continue to focus
More informationPersonal Theological Statement
Personal Theological Statement The purpose of this essay is to address the foundational aspects of my understanding of the Christian message and to give an explanation as to how these aspects influence
More informationFrequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions From Bishop Ruben Saenz Jr: The following questions represent some of the more prevalent inquiries to me during my 18 district town hall meetings in the Great Plains Conference.
More information2. For a Leadership Retreat. 3. For Times of Discernment. 4. For Small Group Meetings (1) 5. For Small Group Meetings (2)
5 Devotions for the Local Church 1. To Open a Meeting 2. For a Leadership Retreat 3. For Times of Discernment 4. For Small Group Meetings (1) 5. For Small Group Meetings (2) Devotions: To Open or Close
More informationJanuary 1, 2017 Passage AM-John 15:18-27, PM-No Worship John 15:18-27 NIV
January 1, 2017 Passage AM-John 15:18-27, PM-No Worship John 15:18-27 NIV 18 If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first. 19 If you belonged to the world, it would love you as its own.
More informationA Way Forward: Healthy Conversations September 20, 2017 Pastor Chuck Wilson
1 A Way Forward: Healthy Conversations September 20, 2017 Pastor Chuck Wilson Let s begin with prayer. Thank you for gathering with us tonight to share in holy conversation about some matters that have
More informationScope and Sequence for Children Fall (K)1-2: Children will hear God s word in James and respond with Christcentered.
Fall 2012 and Text Session 1 Sept. 2, 2012 James 1:17 27 Session 2 Sept. 9, 2012 James 2:1 17 Session 3 Sept. 16, 2012 Mark 8:27 38 Session 4 Sept. 23, 2012 Mark 9:30 37 Session 5 Sept. 30, 2012 Mark 9:38
More informationPraying for General Conference One Hour Guide
Praying for General Conference One Hour Guide SUGGESTED SUPPLIES It will be helpful to have a Bible, a cross, the United Methodist logo with the cross and flame, a globe or world map, paper to write on
More informationBuilding A Vibrant Spiritual Life
Building A Vibrant Spiritual Life A Soul Care Self-Assessment Inventory This inventory will help you discern where you are on your spiritual journey and identify possible next steps. It is designed to
More informationThe Fruit of the Spirit: Joy
The Fruit of the Spirit: Joy In Galatians 5 Paul described the fruit of the Spirit in this way: 22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness,
More informationA Way Forward CONVERSATION. The Process. The Mission. The Mission 6/6/18
A Way Forward CONVERSATION The Process The Purpose History The Mission The Commission will bring together persons deeply committed to the future(s) of The United Methodist Church, with an openness to developing
More informationThree Perspectives. System: Building a Justice System Rooted in Healing By Shari Silberstein
TESHUVAH: RETURN Three Perspectives Part of the contribution that we as clergy make to activism is in transforming culture. As moral and spiritual leaders, we have the ability to offer people new lenses
More informationThe Measure of True Greatness Mark 9:30-37 Dr. Christopher C. F. Chapman First Baptist Church, Raleigh September 23, 2018
The Measure of True Greatness Mark 9:30-37 Dr. Christopher C. F. Chapman First Baptist Church, Raleigh September 23, 2018 I have shared the following reflection with some of you before. Then Jesus took
More informationUNIVERSAL PRAYER OPENINGS AND CLOSINGS
UNIVERSAL PRAYER OPENINGS AND CLOSINGS Monday, January 1, 2018 O: On this day that we celebrate Mary, Mother of God, who with trust said yes to God s plan, let us bring our petitions to the Lord, trusting
More informationFrequently asked Questions Regarding the Church and Human Sexuality Issues. What is meant when we say the United Methodist Church is connectional?
Frequently asked Questions Regarding the Church and Human Sexuality Issues What is meant when we say the United Methodist Church is connectional? Methodism in the United States traces its roots back to
More informationPersonal Mission Statement
Personal Mission Statement By Chris Palmer October 30, 2011 Note: A separate document called Goals for Chris Palmer describes in detail how I implement this Personal Mission Statement. I want to be remembered
More informationInternational Council of Community Churches MINISTRY AND ORDINATION
International Council of Community Churches MINISTRY AND ORDINATION The Nature of Ministry Ministry comes from the Christ, and every Christian by her/his baptism is commissioned to ministry in the name
More informationMeditations On The Story Of Christ
Meditations On The Story Of Christ Light print: Presider Bold Print: Participants Opening Devotions In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen. Lord, have mercy. Christ, have
More informationPeace Through Christ
Peace Through Christ Romans 5:1-11 You and I sometimes wonder why certain people move through suffering with some measure of triumph and others do not. Last week on the Detroit NBC station there was an
More informationBeloved. Marks of Mission, Marks of Love
Beloved Marks of Mission, Marks of Love Everything God does is "mission": The creation of space and time and the elementary components of the universe, living things, human beings, a moral and ethical
More informationGreat Milwaukee Synod Interim Ministry Task Force Manual for Congregations in Transition Interim Ministry
Great Milwaukee Synod Interim Ministry Task Force Manual for Congregations in Transition Interim Ministry Life is a series of transitions from birth to death. At best, transition, though painful, can provide
More informationUnderstanding the Present UMC Crisis. Ted A. Campbell Perkins School of Theology, SMU 7 September 2018
Understanding the Present UMC Crisis Ted A. Campbell Perkins School of Theology, SMU 7 September 2018 Holy God, holy mighty, holy immortal, have mercy on us. 1 The Council of Bishops of The United Methodist
More informationThere are two huge things that the Fruits of the Spirit accomplish here on Earth.
Fruit of The Spirit Bible Scripture Study: Lesson 1: Being Fresh Fruit ( B.F.F) But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.
More information: INTRODUCTION TO THE EIGHT-WEEK PROGRAM
Following Jesus Invitation to Discipleship Monday : INTRODUCTION TO THE EIGHT-WEEK PROGRAM On this first day of Following Jesus, we will get a sense for the framework of the program, and reflect a bit
More informationJesus Promises. The scripture reading this morning is a story of suffering deep, heart-wrenching suffering. It s about a
Jesus Promises The scripture reading this morning is a story of suffering deep, heart-wrenching suffering. It s about a tightly-knit family with deep love for each other two sisters & a brother Martha
More informationAuthority in the Anglican Communion
Authority in the Anglican Communion AUTHORITY IN THE ANGLICAN COMMUNION by The Rev. Canon Dr. Alyson Barnett-Cowan For the purposes of this article, I am going to speak about how the churches of the Anglican
More informationRethinking the Worldwide United Methodist Church... Seeking a New Approach
Rethinking the Worldwide United Methodist Church... Seeking a New Approach (This is the prepared text of an address by Bishop Scott Jones, chair of the Committee to Study the Worldwide Nature of The United
More informationYear of Hope Curriculum Connections Scripture Passages. Kindergarten In God s Image
Year of Hope Curriculum Connections Scripture Passages Kindergarten In God s Image Church Times Advent, Christmas, Epiphany; The birth of Luke 2: 1-20 Jesus Matthew 2: 1-12 Lent, Easter John 4: 5-15 John
More informationMinistry Leadership Models
Ministry Leadership Models Nurture, Outreach, Witness (N.O.W.) and Single Governance Board Structure 2016 General Board of Discipleship. Permission is given for use in United Methodist congregations, districts,
More informationWhat Does It Mean to Be a United Methodist? Session 1: Opening Prayer (read together)
What Does It Mean to Be a United Methodist? Session 1: Opening Prayer (read together) Gracious and Loving God, we gather as your people to explore, to learn, to understand more about you and who you call
More informationUsing The NOW Model For Effective Ministry In Small Congregations by William F. Appleby
Hinton Models for Ministry Using The NOW Model For Effective Ministry In Small Congregations by William F. Appleby Models for Ministry in small membership churches are occasional publications of the Hinton
More informationThe Future of United Methodism Is There Life after 2019?
1 The Future of United Methodism Is There Life after 2019? For five decades, including all the forty-one years I have been in ministry, at the denominational level, the United Methodist Church has been
More informationSermon for Easter Sunday. Rising from the Ashes
1 Sermon for Easter Sunday Text: I Corinthians 15:20 Christ has been raised from death, as the guarantee that those who sleep in death will also be raised. Rising from the Ashes They didn t expect it.
More informationA Living Church And A Risen Christ Since Easter we ve been talking about the importance and significance of Christ s resurrection and I want to share
A Living Church And A Risen Christ Since Easter we ve been talking about the importance and significance of Christ s resurrection and I want to share one more sermon on the subject. I feel often the attitude
More informationJesus Comes Back to Life
Session 8 Jesus Comes Back to Life Matthew 27:27-56; 28:1-10 Worship Theme: Jesus is risen. Weaving Faith Into Life: Children will celebrate Jesus because he died for all of us and he is alive. Session
More informationScope and Sequence for Children
Fall 2018 Session 1 September 2, 2018 Proper 17 James 1:17 27 Session 2 September 9, 2018 Proper 18 James 2:1 17 Session 3 September 16, 2018 Proper 19 Mark 8:27 38 Session 4 September 23, 2018 Proper20
More informationThe Gospel of John. Believe and Live! Lesson 21. John 20:1 31. Our Living Hope
The Gospel of John Believe and Live! Lesson 21 John 20:1 31 Our Living Hope Fifty years had passed from the time of the events happening in John 19 20 and John writing them down, but the account is as
More informationThe first thing to note is that while the text includes images of a time when all of creation is affected by a new and more just reign, these
What to Do with the Lion and the Lamb in the Real World Isaiah 11:1-10 Dr. Christopher C. F. Chapman First Baptist Church, Raleigh December 4, 2016 A Presbyterian minister tells a story about a children
More informationThe Fruit of the Spirit
Week 4 (May 26th/27th) 33.3 Elementary SGL The Fruit of the Spirit Bible Passages: Galatians 5:16-26 Main Point: The Holy Spirit changes the way we think and act to be more like Jesus. Big Picture Question:
More informationthe 2015 Connection The Alabama-West Florida United Methodist Conference
the 2015 Connection The Alabama-West Florida United Methodist Conference October 1, 2014 Dear Sisters and Brothers: St. Paul s second letter to the Thessalonians concludes with his reminder that as people
More informationGUIDELINES FOR CONTINUING EDUCATION
CHURCH OF THE BRETHREN I. INTRODUCTION GUIDELINES FOR CONTINUING EDUCATION The 1999 Ministerial Leadership paper states that every ordained ministerial leader in the 1 Church of the Brethren is expected
More informationHAPPY HANUKKAH!! By Apostle Jacquelyn Fedor
HAPPY HANUKKAH!! By Apostle Jacquelyn Fedor We should all be looking forward to a worldwide Hanukkah. It may be coming sooner than we think! Here is why. In 167 BC Antiochus IV made the flat statement
More informationA Psalm of Thanksgiving
A Psalm of Thanksgiving 1 A psalm is a Hebrew poem or song found in the Book of Psalms in the Old Testament. Psalms were originally written to praise God, give thanks to God, celebrate God s law, ask God
More informationMEETING 3 (LESSON 2): LEADER S NOTES
MEETING 3 (LESSON 2): LEADER S NOTES L : 30 Leader s notes for Page 13 of the student booklet Welcome the students and open Lesson 2 with prayer. Ask them how the homework went, and encourage them to keep
More informationMARRIAGE ORDER OF SERVICE
MARRIAGE ORDER OF SERVICE BRIDAL PROCESSION GATHERING IN GOD S NAME The Congregation remains standing Greeting by Fr Gary Fr Gary Response: The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and
More informationA CATHOLIC PERSPECTIVE
A CATHOLIC PERSPECTIVE Renewing the Promise Series Monograph #2 Published by Institute for Catholic Education Let the Gospels Lead the Way by Marcelle DeFreitas and Deirdre Kinsella Biss Heart, Head and
More informationLIVING EASTER CELEBRATING EASTER
LIVING EASTER CELEBRATING EASTER This is the day the Lord had made, Let us rejoice and be glad! Alleluia! Alleluia! Leader: Christ, the Glory of spring, is risen and present. In prayer and song we echo
More information