Wednesday, December 25, 2013

San Diego First United Methodist Church’s Newsletter – Wednesday, 25 December 2013 - January and the Gym

San Diego First United Methodist Church’s Newsletter – Wednesday, 25 December 2013 - January and the Gym
January and the Gym
The beginning of a new year offers up opportunities to start afresh and make new commitments. I visit the gym five days a week and have done so for the last ten years. The first few weeks of January I find that parking at the gym is more challenging and that using equipment becomes difficult. Those making resolutions for fitness at the gym do have an impact. But like so many, by the beginning of February the gym is back to normal. Where is the power to make lasting change?
During the month of January we will be sharing in a special worship series called "PowerForLiving." Our power for living emerges from God's promise of a powerful life. While this may have an impact on your fitness habits, it can certainly change the way we face obstacles and impact our own self-understanding. Join us for worship as we begin to unlock God's power for living each week in January.
Craig +
WORSHIP
Pointsettia
TODAY - Christmas Day Worship
Wednesday, December 25 | 11 AM | Sanctuary  |  Rev. Ken Licht
A service of carols, lessons, communion and a Christmas message, along with the Chancel Choir and organ, is set in a light-filled sanctuary filled with Poinsettias and greenery. 
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 29, 2013
Text to read: Luke 2: Jesus Is Named
21 After eight days had passed, it was time to circumcise the child; and he was called Jesus, the name given by the angel before he was conceived in the womb.
Jesus Is Presented in the Temple
22 When the time came for their purification according to the law of Moses, they brought him up to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord 23 (as it is written in the law of the Lord, “Every firstborn male shall be designated as holy to the Lord”), 24 and they offered a sacrifice according to what is stated in the law of the Lord, “a pair of turtledoves or two young pigeons.”
25 Now there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon;[a] this man was righteous and devout, looking forward to the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit rested on him. 26 It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he had seen the Lord’s Messiah.[b] 27 Guided by the Spirit, Simeon[c] came into the temple; and when the parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him what was customary under the law, 28 Simeon[d] took him in his arms and praised God, saying,
29 “Master, now you are dismissing your servant[e] in peace,
    according to your word;
30 for my eyes have seen your salvation,
31     which you have prepared in the presence of all peoples,
32 a light for revelation to the Gentiles
    and for glory to your people Israel.”
33 And the child’s father and mother were amazed at what was being said about him. 34 Then Simeon[f] blessed them and said to his mother Mary, “This child is destined for the falling and the rising of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be opposed 35 so that the inner thoughts of many will be revealed—and a sword will pierce your own soul too.”
Footnotes:
a. Luke 2:25 Gk Symeon
b. Luke 2:26 Or the Lord’s Christ
c. Luke 2:27 Gk In the Spirit, he
d. Luke 2:28 Gk he
e. Luke 2:29 Gk slave
f. Luke 2:34 Gk Symeon
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John Wesley Notes-Commentary for Luke 2:21-35 
Verse 21. To circumcise the child - That he might visibly be made under the law by a sacred rite, which obliged him to keep the whole law; as also that he might be owned to be the seed of Abraham, and might put an honour on the solemn dedication of children to God.
Verse 22. The days - The forty days prescribed, Lev. xii, 2, 4.
Verse 23. Exod. xiii, 2.
24. A pair of turtle doves, or two young pigeons - This offering sufficed for the poor. Lev. xii, 8.
Verse 25. The consolation of Israel - A common phrase for the Messiah, who was to be the everlasting consolation of the Israel of God. The Holy Ghost was upon him - That is, he was a prophet.
Verse 27. By the Spirit - By a particular Revelation or impulse from him.
Verse 30. Thy salvation - Thy Christ, thy saviour.
Verse 32. And the glory of thy people Israel - For after the Gentiles are enlightened, all Israel shall be saved.
Verse 33. Joseph and his mother marvelled at those things which were spoken - For they did not thoroughly understand them.
Verse 34. Simeon blessed them - Joseph and Mary. This child is set for the fall and rising again of many - That is, he will be a savour of death to some, to unbelievers: a savour of life to others, to believers: and for a sign which shall be spoken against - A sign from God, yet rejected of men: but the time for declaring this at large was not yet come: that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed - The event will be, that by means of that contradiction, the inmost thoughts of many, whether good or bad, will be made manifest.
Verse 35. A sword shall pierce through thy own soul - So it did, when he suffered: particularly at his crucifixion.
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PowerForLiving   
Daily Devotional
TRADITIONAL | 8 ~ 9:30 ~ 11 | Sanctuary | Rev. Greg LaDue 
10:40 COMMUNION | Sanctuary Altar
NON-TRADITIONAL  
Water's Edge  |  9:30  | The Cove, United Methodist Ctr | Dr. Elbert Kim | Band | Communion
CHILDREN'S SUNDAY SCHOOL  | 9:20 | No Sunday School on December 29 -- worship as a family at any of our four services!
Read Pastor Jessica's weekly message
Message from Pastor Jessica
Merry Christmas! I hope you’ll plan to join us for worship this Christmas season (http://www.fumcsd.org/worship/2013-christmas-at-first-church/). It was a joy to watch the children’s choirs rehearse for their pageant this morning – it’s going to be awesome! Many children were also here last night, participating in the F5 service with the live nativity, complete with rabbits, ducks, chickens, sheep, goats, and a donkey! So much fun to watch their excited faces, and hear them talk about what it is like to be in the Christmas story re-enacted. It was a good reminder that, as Pastor Craig said in his message, children of all ages are a big deal to God, who loves us so much that we receive the gift of Jesus with us as a newborn baby.
As you prepare for the nativity of Jesus, visits with family, and perhaps some traveling, I wanted to remind you that we will not have Sunday School on December 29th. You are invited to worship as a family that day, but also know that if desired there is nursery care available for infants-5th graders.
May you and your family be blessed by hope, peace, joy, and love this Christmas and always,
Pastor Jessica
WEDNESDAY!
M O R N I N G
10:30 AM -Pastor's Bible Study | Linder Lounge
No Pastor's Bible Study 12/25, 1/1; resumes 1/8
E V E N I N G
5:15 PM - Vespers | Sanctuary | Music for meditation | Communion
No Vespers 12/25, 1/1; resumes 1/8                
6 PM - Dinner ($6) Linder Lounge| RSVP to the office 619-297-4366 by Mon.
No Dinner 12/25, 1/1; resumes 1/8 
6:45 PM -Pastor's Bible Study | moving to Linder Hall
No Pastor's Bible Study 12/25, 1/1; resumes 1/8
CHILDREN & YOUTH
Youth Ministry
Mandatory Parent Meeting
Sunday, January 5 | 11:15 AM - 12:15 PM | Linder Hall 2
Student Ministries Director, Richard Annett, is calling a meeting for all parents that will discuss upcoming youth events and future plans for youth ministry.
Baptism Scheduled Sunday, January 12
All services 
Baptism for infants and young children will take place on Sunday, January 12, 2014, at 8, 9:30 and 11 AM services. If you are interested in having a child baptized call Demmie in the church office at 619-297-4366, ext. 108, or email her at ddivine@fumcsd.org.
Parents' Night Out/1-Day VBS
The Incredible Race through the Wilderness!
Saturday, January 25 | 3-7 PM  | $5/child
Children ages 4 through 5th grade are invited to learn from biblical pacesetter John the Baptist and his championship race through the wilderness. John the Baptist will tell us all about his incredible commitment to Jesus, and how we too can put Jesus first!
Go enjoy some time together, and let us watch your kids! They'll enjoy stations and activities, including Bible stories, crafts, games, worship, dinner, and more. Registration is required for each child participating, childcare is available for younger siblings. Cost: $5, registration includes program, snack and dinner. Sign-up online at www.fumcsd.org/1-dayvbs, or contact Pastor Jessica for more information at jstrysko@fumcsd.org. We still need volunteers, so please contact Jessica! 
Youth Ski/Snow Retreat
Youth Ski Retreat, January 31 - February 2
Join your church friends for our All Youth Ski Retreat!
Fellowship, Staying in a great Cabin, Games/Fun Activities, Worship, thoughtful spiritual discussion, OH and snowboarding/skiing and tubing! 
Cost: $160 due January 20. Please contact Richard Annett for more information and to register.
HEALTH
Health Exchange Workshop
Sunday, Jan. 5 | 11 AM - 12 PM | Linder Lounge
Learn more about the Affordable Care Act/Covered California: who qualifies, tiers, myths and truths. Facilitated by Alana Kalinowski, Community Dev. Coordinator for 2-1-1 San Diego. Presented by the Health Ministry Task Force.
SMALL GROUP
Real Men ChristCare Book Study
Thursday, Jan. 16 | 6:30 PM | Linder Hall 4
Quiet Strength by former NFL coach Tony Dungy. Connect with others in more authentic ways, and find your answers to the six questions that men often deal with: What's my game plan? What's my strength? What's success? Where's my security? What is my significance?  What's my legacy?   
For further information, contact Tom Nehring (619)528-0940 or Mike Sorce (619)291-5559. Real Men meets the first and third Thursdays of the month.
NEW CLASSES
GriefShare
A 13-week program starting Jan. 19 | 11 AM - 12:30 PM | Trotter Chapel
Did you recently lose a loved one? Built on videos with experts talking about the grief journey followed by discussion, GriefShare is a friendly, caring group of people who will walk along side you through one of life's most difficult experiences. Contact Rev. Ken Licht 619-297-4366, ext. 111, for more info.
New Adult Classes to begin the New Year!
Two 3-week practicum classes on Sunday and Wednesday to get you started in the New Year. Each class will offer a time for instruction, spiritual practice, and discussion. Then, the classes will be offered again on different days in February! On Wednesday, consider joining us for Vespers at 5:30 and a meal at 6 before class time!
THE PRACTICE OF PRAYER
Sundays, January 5, 12, 19 | 11:15 AM - 12 PM | The Cove
Wednesdays, February 5, 12, 19 | 6:45-7:30 PM | Linder Lounge 
Led by Rev. Greg LaDue.
 RSVP .... 
THE PRACTICE OF PERSONAL BIBLE STUDY
Wednesdays, January 8, 15, 22 | 6:45-7:30 PM | Linder Lounge
Sundays, February 2, 9, 16 | 11:15 AM - 12 PM | The Cove
Led by Dr. Elbert Kim.
RSVP ...
Financial Peace University
A 9-week course, starting Sunday, January 26 | 12:15 PM |Linder Hall 5
Free previews are offered Sunday, January 12, 9:45 AM and 12:15 PM in the Sanctuary Meeting Room directly below the Sanctuary.
Whether you are struggling to make ends meet or are financially secure, FPU has something for everyone. This course is based on biblical guidance and financially sound practices that offer a proven method to eliminate debt and manage money through simple, no nonsense applications.  Learn more...
musicMUSIC
Harvard University Glee Club
Sunday, Jan. 19 | 7 PM | Sanctuary
Music Series 2014 presents the oldest college choir in America. Sacred and secular music from Renaissance to present. Tickets $15 advance, $20 door, students free. Tickets will be available Sundays 1/5, 1/12, and 1/19 on the Patio and online now.
We are looking for host families to house the men of the Harvard University Glee Club on Sunday night, January 19, following their concert. You would feed them breakfast then bring them back to the church in the morning (more specific details will follow). If you can take two or more, please email Demmie Divine or call her at: 619-297-4366, ext. 108.
NOTICES
 Sponsor a Prayer Quilt for someone in need of prayer -- whatever the reason. Submit a request
or call Cheryl Johnson at 619-297-7575.
Friday Night Singles (50+ or -) meets every Friday at 6 PM for a meal followed by activities. Email Karen Maczka or call 619-263-3743.
We have a new web page for Just Men. Please, visit the site and explore some of the ministries that are for the men in our church. If you are interested in expanding this area, or notice something missing, please contact Beckett Kirk, bkirk@fumcsd.org.
The Interfaith Shelter Network will take place on our campus from February 9-23. Volunteers are needed for overnight hosting and bringing meals for our shelter guests. Sign-ups will begin on Sunday, January 5, on the patio. Please feel free to email or call Brenda Blake at bblake@fumcsd.org or 619-297-4366, ext. 125.
The Altar Flower Calendar has openings for Sundays in January 2014. Please help us fill those dates. Call Eleene in the church office at 619-297-4366 to make your reservation. Each bouquet is $50.
The 2014 Upper Room Disciplines are now for sale in the church office. Price $15.
Loaves & Fishes food distribution needs drivers that can help transport the food from church  to Wesley UMC the second Sunday of the month. You need to be available from 2-4 PM. If you feel called to help, Email Brenda Blake or call 619-297-4366 x125.   
Next Neighborhood Family Meal is Monday, Jan. 27, 5:30-7 PM at Normal Heights UMC. Help provide and serve food and enjoy fellowship with families, teens, seniors and people in need of a nutritious, hot meal at Normal Heights UMC, 4650 Mansfield St. Volunteers prepare and bring a main dish, salad or dessert. Email Brenda Blake or call 619-297-4366, x125. 
Save the Dates:
F5 Jan.19 | 11 AM | Linder Hall
MLK Jr. Day of Interfaith Service Jan. 20
Parents Night Out/1-Day VBS Jan. 25  
New job postings at Point Loma Nazarene University: Associate Director for Human Resources, Academic Records Specialist, Records Assistant, Groundskeeper, Programmer/Analyst. PLNU continually updates their employment opportinities; for more information please visit the PLNU website. 
MISSION OUTREACH THRIFT STORE
3186 Adams Ave. | Open Monday to Saturday 9:30 AM - 4:30 PM
Our Mission Outreach Thrift Store has an "Eastlake" Drop Leaf Table, late 1800's, with drawer for $450. Additional items are being added every day.
Proceeds from the Thrift Store support several local missions and the United Methodist Women. Last year we raised $35,000 for local missions.
UMCOR
Donate through First Church to help UMCOR relief efforts
Your donation will assist UMCOR in helping those affected by the recent devastating tornadoes in the Midwest and typhoon Haiyan in the Philippines. First Church has set up donation forms online: 
Midwest Tornado Relief
Typhoon Haiyan Emergency
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In Our Prayers
We invite you to join us as we keep these individuals and families in our prayers this week.
IN MEMORIAM
Morrell "Doc" Martin passed away on December 8. He was received into membership on August 21, 1966, by Rev. Hilka Green and is survived by his son, Gary, granddaughters, Sandy (Nati) Nava, Kim Martin, grandson, Larry Martin, two great grandchildren, great nephew and niece. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, December 21, at 1:00 p.m. in our sanctuary, Revs. Ken Licht and Mark Trotter officiating.
Everett C. Mehner passed away on December 12. He was received into membership in 1956 by Rev. Stanley McKee and is survived by his brother, Gerhart, and niece, Pam (Don) Hiller. A memorial service will be held on January 18, at 11:00 a.m., Dr. Elbert Kim officiating.
Mary Ann Shekelton passed away on December 10 in Seattle. She was received into membership on April 12, 1987, by Rev. Rev. Mark Trotter. She was predeceased by her husband, Jack, and is survived by her children, Beatrice Anita and Phillip Ross, sisters, Lorraine and Yvonne and their families. A memorial service will be held on Friday, January 24, at 1:00 p.m. in Trotter Chapel, Rev. Ken Licht officiating. A reception will follow in Linder Lounge.
Elizabeth Turley passed away on December 19. She was received into membership in 1985 by Rev. Mark Trotter and is survived by her children, Judy (Duane) and John, and one grandchild. Services in Berkeley, California are pending.
Sue S. West passed away on December 3. She was received into membership in 1985 by Rev. Charles Hoffman and is survived by her daughers, Suzanne (Dan) Spelts and Jennifer (Mike) Apparito, six grandchildren and five great grandchildren. Graveside services were held on December 11.
Hospitalized (as of 12/18/13): Reg Becker.
A Prayer Quilt was presented on Sunday, December 22, for LaVern Cumby. Please keep this individual in yor prayers.
Members of our congregation in the military who are deployed and their families:
Sam Adams
Adam Beauregard
Jason Constantine
Jeffrey Njuyen
Doug Samples
Collin Sullivan
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First United Methodist Church
2111 CAMINO DEL RIO South IN MISSION VALLEY
(619)297-4366

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