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First United Methodist of Redondo Beach, California, United States Weekly News for Thursday, August 13, 2015
Sunday, August 16
Stephen Hale, preaching
8:30am in the Epworth Lounge
9:30am Where Did the Bible Come From? in Epworth Lounge
10:30am in the Sanctuary
Sunday's Sermon & Scripture:
"Raised Up on the Last Day"
Scripture: John 6:51-59
Scripture Text: John 6:51 I am the living bread that has come down from heaven; if anyone eats this bread, he will live forever. Furthermore, the bread that I will give is my own flesh; and I will give it for the life of the world.”
52 At this, the Judeans disputed with one another, saying, “How can this man give us his flesh to eat?” 53 Then Yeshua said to them, “Yes, indeed! I tell you that unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink his blood, you do not have life in yourselves. 54 Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal life — that is, I will raise him up on the Last Day. 55 For my flesh is true food, and my blood is true drink. 56 Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood lives in me, and I live in him. 57 Just as the living Father sent me, and I live through the Father, so also whoever eats me will live through me. 58 So this is the bread that has come down from heaven — it is not like the bread the fathers ate; they’re dead, but whoever eats this bread will live forever!” 59 He said these things as he was teaching in a synagogue in K’far-Nachum.
John Wesley's Notes-Commentary for John 6:51-59
Verse 51[51] I am the living bread which came down from heaven: if any man eat of this bread, he shall live for ever: and the bread that I will give is my flesh, which I will give for the life of the world.
If any eat of this bread — That is, believe in me: he shall live for ever - In other words, he that believeth to the end shall be saved.
My flesh which I will give you — This whole discourse concerning his flesh and blood refers directly to his passion, and but remotely, if at all, to the Lord's Supper.
Verse 52
[52] The Jews therefore strove among themselves, saying, How can this man give us his flesh to eat?
Observe the degrees: the Jews are tried here; the disciples, John 6:60-66, the apostles, John 6:67.
Verse 53
[53] Then Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except ye eat the flesh of the Son of man, and drink his blood, ye have no life in you.
Unless ye eat the flesh of the Son of man — Spiritually: unless ye draw continual virtue from him by faith. Eating his flesh is only another expression for believing.
Verse 55
[55] For my flesh is meat indeed, and my blood is drink indeed.
Meat — drink indeed - With which the soul of a believer is as truly fed, as his body with meat and drink.
Verse 57
[57] As the living Father hath sent me, and I live by the Father: so he that eateth me, even he shall live by me.
I live by the Father — Being one with him.
He shall live by me — Being one with me. Amazing union!
Verse 58
[58] This is that bread which came down from heaven: not as your fathers did eat manna, and are dead: he that eateth of this bread shall live for ever.
This is — That is, I am the bread - Which is not like the manna your fathers ate, who died notwithstanding.
Sermon Story "Eating The Living Bread Until The End" by Gary Lee Parker for Sunday, 16 August 2014 with Scripture: John 6:551 I am the living bread that has come down from heaven; if anyone eats this bread, he will live forever. Furthermore, the bread that I will give is my own flesh; and I will give it for the life of the world.”
52 At this, the Judeans disputed with one another, saying, “How can this man give us his flesh to eat?” 53 Then Yeshua said to them, “Yes, indeed! I tell you that unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink his blood, you do not have life in yourselves. 54 Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal life — that is, I will raise him up on the Last Day. 55 For my flesh is true food, and my blood is true drink. 56 Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood lives in me, and I live in him. 57 Just as the living Father sent me, and I live through the Father, so also whoever eats me will live through me. 58 So this is the bread that has come down from heaven — it is not like the bread the fathers ate; they’re dead, but whoever eats this bread will live forever!” 59 He said these things as he was teaching in a synagogue in K’far-Nachum.
What is Jesus thinking of by calling Himself the living bread to be eaten? So many people have gone on to attmept to explain this meaning to either some great meanings or not so great that allowed some people to struggle with what Jesus really means. Even today, there are people do not understand this because of the sounding like cannibalism that some tribes have been a part of that thinking with other people cringing at this practice. As we think and ponder what Jesus is talking about there is a sense within each of us that Jesus could mean that when we embrace all of Jesus and His Father's Teachings, we have Himself as the Holy Spirit within us. Even though we think on this way, we realize that when Jesus is calling us to live as He lives is to value and love all people as whole people made in His Image to live in Holiness and Love in all areas of our lives. Too often, one group of people who have been devalued in our churches are people who are differently abled and not fully included in the activities of the church and capable of being witnesses of God's Love to other people. The value of people who are differently abled are great in God's eyes and somethimes they get the love and holiness of Jesus living within us to be His witnesses to all people. I am reninded of the story of a L'Arche house in India where they found a young man who was apparently a person who was intellectually impaired on the streets even though he was wearing a Islam cap. They brought this young man into their home and allowed him to live and work among them practicing his own faith. One day the resident assistant took this young man to a local mosque for the Islamic services. At this service, another young man so this young and yelled out the young man's name. This happened to be his brother and this young man was reunited with his family. So his family came to visit the L'Arche home and notice that their family members was being assisted better than if they kept him in their home, so they said he may stay despite the young man is Islamic and the L'Arche Community is Catholic/Christian. Is this is what Jesus was striving at to eat His body as the living bread and showing His love for all people? What characters in the story do you relate to or not realate to? How are you willing to live out your faith while a friend lives out their faith in love and holiness. We come to seek more of God's Grace as we come singing the Hymn "O the blood of Jesus" (Traditional) by Author: Anonymous
1. Oh, the blood of Jesus,
Oh, the blood of Jesus,
Oh, the blood of Jesus,
it must not suffer loss.
2. Oh, the word of Jesus,
Oh, the word of Jesus,
Oh, the word of Jesus,
it cleanses white as snow.
3. Oh, the love of Jesus,
Oh, the love of Jesus,
Oh, the love of Jesus,
it makes His body whole.
Chorus: There is power, power, power, power,
Wonder working pow'r,
In the blood, in the blood, of the Lamb, of the Lamb,
There is power, power, power, power,
Wonder working pow'r,
In the precious blood of the Lamb.
--and--
"I Know It Was The Blood"
Verse 1: I know it was the blood,
I know it was the blood,
I know it was the blood for me.
One day when I was lost
He died upon the cross,
I know it was the blood for me.
Verse 2: They nailed Him to the cross,
they nailed Him to the cross,
they nailed Him to the cross for me.
One day when I was lost
He died upon that cross,
they nailed Him to the cross for me.
Verse 3:
They pierced Him in His side,
they pierced Him in His side,
they pierced Him in His side for me.
One day when I was lost
He died upon that cross,
they pierced Him in His side for me.
Verse 4: He never said a mumbling word,
He never said a mumbling word,
He never said a mumbling word for me.
One day when I was lost
He died upon that cross,
He never said a mumbling word for me.
Verse 5: He hung His head and died,
He hung His head and died,
He hung His head and died for me.
One day when I was lost
He died upon that cross,
He hung His head and died for me.
Verse 6: He rose up from the dead,
He rose up from the dead,
He rose up from the dead for me.
One day when I was lost
He died upon that cross,
He rose up from the dead for me.
Verse 7: He's coming back again,
He's coming back again,
He's coming back again for me.
One day when I was lost
He died upon that cross,
He's coming back again for me.
In This Issue:
eScrip
Bible Class
Set the Stage Sunday
UMW Potluck
Parking Reminder
From the Lay Leader
Worship Survey
Shared Bread Opportunity
Finance Update
Quilt Ministry
Book Club
Meals and More
Women's Retreat Weekend
Altar Flowers
Community Events
Like us on Facebook
This Week at Church...
Men's Breakfast
www.beachfaith.org
The Church office is regularly open from 9am - 4pm,
Monday to Thursday.
Adult Bible Study
The Pastor's Bible Studymeets Thursdays at 11:00am in May Day Parlor.
______________
Adult Sunday School:Bible Study in Health Chapel
9:30-10:15amThe class is a Bible Study and discussion. Led by Helen Stockwell.
A Church That Responds to the Needs of the Community
Every Wednesday, with help from neighbor congregations and many volunteers, we host Shared Bread, a free meal for the community.
(Click the logo for more information.)
Groceries = $$ for Church
Looking for an easy way to support our church? Now you can do your grocery shopping and the store will give a percentage back to FUMCRB! Click the image on the left to learn how you can sign up for this easy giving program. Our Stewardship Team can answer any questions!
WANT TO STAY CURRENT ON ANNUAL CONFERENCE NEWS?
CLICK THE IMAGE ON THE RIGHT TO LINK TO THE CAL-PAC WEBSITE.
________________________________
You may also visit the new website for the entire denomination of United Methodist Church here.
Want to see photos of past church activities and events?
Check out our
Flickr page and ourFacebook page
Do you have concerns, ideas or input about our church that you want to be heard?
You are welcome to reach out to our leaders!
You can contact our Pastor, Molly Vetter.
Our Staff-Parish Relations Committee, which is responsible for staff and pastoral oversight, is led byDarrell Uran.
Nina Dooley is the Chair of our Church Council.
Johnna Kosnoff is our Lay Leader.
United Methodist Communications: Communicating Faith for
75 Years
In 2015, United Methodist Communications celebrates its 75th year of telling the church's story, both within the church and to the world.
Though it has evolved through many name and structural changes, the denomination's communication agency has initiated a very long list of "firsts" throughout its 75-year history.
Click thru here to see their interactive timeline and more about this special anniversary
The cast of "101 Dalmatians," being a little crazy
"The Talent Runs Deep"
It was so fun to watch our BeachFaith Kids' production of "Disney's 101 Dalmatians Kids" last Sunday. The Hall was packed with people, and the kids were full of songs and energy. It's so fun to see our young people shine!
What I loved seeing, even more, was that the kids were able to shine because of a cast of assistants in the wings and backstage--the staff and volunteers who made sure they learned the songs, were wearing the right costumes, standing in the right places, and ready to go on stage. This behind-the-scenes talent included many of our youth, college-age kids, and adults. Plus, there were the people getting lunch ready, parents selling tickets, people crafting sets, and a whole lot more. It takes a village of committed people to make a show happen (especially with young actors and actresses, some of whom needed help getting into all their costumes!).
But so it is, always, with the ministry of the church. Deep beneath everything you can see lies a community of care and hard work. For every plate of food someone delivers to a table on Wednesday during Shared Bread, there's a community people picking up food donations, chopping vegetables, washing dishes and dish clothes, setting up tables, and more.
To make Sunday worship happen, there's a crew of volunteers welcoming people, practicing songs, offering prayer, cleaning bathrooms, repairing our campus, counting offering money and more.
The work of the church is accomplished through the hands of us all. For that beautiful community and amazing labor, I give thanks to God.
Grace and peace,
Pastor Molly
I will be out of the office through Wednesday the 19th, on vacation with my family. I'm very pleased that Stephen Hale, our Youth Director, will preach in our worship services on August 16th.
Contact Info
Pastor Molly Vetter
PastorMolly@BeachFaith.com
310-372-8445 x 102
August Class: Where did the Bible Come From?
Stephen is teaching a class on the history of the Bible August 9th and 16th. The class will focus on how ancient Greek, Hebrew & Aramaic texts get converted to the Bible in our pews! We'll also learn a little bit about how the books of the Bible got selected, and others rejected.
When: August 9th and 16th, 9:30am
Where: Epworth Lounge
All Church Work Day: Saturday, August 15, 8:30am-noon
You are invited to lend a hand in caring for our church campus by volunteering as a part of our All-Church Work Day on Saturday, August 15. We'll be here from 8:30-noon, and are looking for people to take up specific projects, including some painting and basic construction, as well as changing light bulbs and more. We can use people with skill and experience, and all those with willing hands, too. For more information, contact our Trustees Chair, Mark Elenbaas
Mark your calendar for August 30--join us for an all-church breakfast and ministry fair as we "set the stage" for ministry this fall!
Come learn about the many, different ways we are in ministry together!
Ministry leaders: please make plans for hosting a table during the fair--we'll be sending a bit more information soon. Contact the church office for more info.
August 23:
Blessing of the Backpacks
Children--and students of all ages--are invited to bring the backpacks or school bags to worship on Sunday, August 23, for a special "Blessing of the Backpacks" as the new school year starts.
Raging Waters Trip 8/18, CRU and Youth: RSVP's due by tomorrow!
9am drop off at church- 7pm pick up
Cost $40
(scholarships available)
Bring a friend!
Are you a parent who can chaperone or drive?
Let us know!
All-Circle Summer Potluck--
United Methodist Women
Thursday, August 20
Women of the church: Mark your calendars and make plans to join us for this summer's All-Circle Potluck, on August 20 in the evening. As always, it will be a fun evening together, and a wonderful opportunity to learn about missions in the church.
Sign up for our Summer Mission Project
eScrip
Bible Class
Set the Stage Sunday
UMW Potluck
Parking Reminder
From the Lay Leader
Worship Survey
Shared Bread Opportunity
Finance Update
Quilt Ministry
Book Club
Meals and More
Women's Retreat Weekend
Altar Flowers
Community Events
Like us on Facebook
This Week at Church...
Men's Breakfast
www.beachfaith.org
The Church office is regularly open from 9am - 4pm,
Monday to Thursday.
Adult Bible Study
The Pastor's Bible Studymeets Thursdays at 11:00am in May Day Parlor.
______________
Adult Sunday School:Bible Study in Health Chapel
9:30-10:15amThe class is a Bible Study and discussion. Led by Helen Stockwell.
A Church That Responds to the Needs of the Community
Every Wednesday, with help from neighbor congregations and many volunteers, we host Shared Bread, a free meal for the community.
(Click the logo for more information.)
Groceries = $$ for Church
Looking for an easy way to support our church? Now you can do your grocery shopping and the store will give a percentage back to FUMCRB! Click the image on the left to learn how you can sign up for this easy giving program. Our Stewardship Team can answer any questions!
WANT TO STAY CURRENT ON ANNUAL CONFERENCE NEWS?
CLICK THE IMAGE ON THE RIGHT TO LINK TO THE CAL-PAC WEBSITE.
________________________________
You may also visit the new website for the entire denomination of United Methodist Church here.
Want to see photos of past church activities and events?
Check out our
Flickr page and ourFacebook page
Do you have concerns, ideas or input about our church that you want to be heard?
You are welcome to reach out to our leaders!
You can contact our Pastor, Molly Vetter.
Our Staff-Parish Relations Committee, which is responsible for staff and pastoral oversight, is led byDarrell Uran.
Nina Dooley is the Chair of our Church Council.
Johnna Kosnoff is our Lay Leader.
United Methodist Communications: Communicating Faith for
75 Years
In 2015, United Methodist Communications celebrates its 75th year of telling the church's story, both within the church and to the world.
Though it has evolved through many name and structural changes, the denomination's communication agency has initiated a very long list of "firsts" throughout its 75-year history.
Click thru here to see their interactive timeline and more about this special anniversary
The cast of "101 Dalmatians," being a little crazy
"The Talent Runs Deep"
It was so fun to watch our BeachFaith Kids' production of "Disney's 101 Dalmatians Kids" last Sunday. The Hall was packed with people, and the kids were full of songs and energy. It's so fun to see our young people shine!
What I loved seeing, even more, was that the kids were able to shine because of a cast of assistants in the wings and backstage--the staff and volunteers who made sure they learned the songs, were wearing the right costumes, standing in the right places, and ready to go on stage. This behind-the-scenes talent included many of our youth, college-age kids, and adults. Plus, there were the people getting lunch ready, parents selling tickets, people crafting sets, and a whole lot more. It takes a village of committed people to make a show happen (especially with young actors and actresses, some of whom needed help getting into all their costumes!).
But so it is, always, with the ministry of the church. Deep beneath everything you can see lies a community of care and hard work. For every plate of food someone delivers to a table on Wednesday during Shared Bread, there's a community people picking up food donations, chopping vegetables, washing dishes and dish clothes, setting up tables, and more.
To make Sunday worship happen, there's a crew of volunteers welcoming people, practicing songs, offering prayer, cleaning bathrooms, repairing our campus, counting offering money and more.
The work of the church is accomplished through the hands of us all. For that beautiful community and amazing labor, I give thanks to God.
Grace and peace,
Pastor Molly
I will be out of the office through Wednesday the 19th, on vacation with my family. I'm very pleased that Stephen Hale, our Youth Director, will preach in our worship services on August 16th.
Contact Info
Pastor Molly Vetter
PastorMolly@BeachFaith.com
310-372-8445 x 102
August Class: Where did the Bible Come From?
Stephen is teaching a class on the history of the Bible August 9th and 16th. The class will focus on how ancient Greek, Hebrew & Aramaic texts get converted to the Bible in our pews! We'll also learn a little bit about how the books of the Bible got selected, and others rejected.
When: August 9th and 16th, 9:30am
Where: Epworth Lounge
All Church Work Day: Saturday, August 15, 8:30am-noon
You are invited to lend a hand in caring for our church campus by volunteering as a part of our All-Church Work Day on Saturday, August 15. We'll be here from 8:30-noon, and are looking for people to take up specific projects, including some painting and basic construction, as well as changing light bulbs and more. We can use people with skill and experience, and all those with willing hands, too. For more information, contact our Trustees Chair, Mark Elenbaas
Mark your calendar for August 30--join us for an all-church breakfast and ministry fair as we "set the stage" for ministry this fall!Come learn about the many, different ways we are in ministry together!
Ministry leaders: please make plans for hosting a table during the fair--we'll be sending a bit more information soon. Contact the church office for more info.
August 23:
Blessing of the Backpacks
Children--and students of all ages--are invited to bring the backpacks or school bags to worship on Sunday, August 23, for a special "Blessing of the Backpacks" as the new school year starts.
Raging Waters Trip 8/18, CRU and Youth: RSVP's due by tomorrow!
9am drop off at church- 7pm pick up
Cost $40
(scholarships available)
Bring a friend!
Are you a parent who can chaperone or drive?
Let us know!
All-Circle Summer Potluck--
United Methodist Women
Thursday, August 20
Women of the church: Mark your calendars and make plans to join us for this summer's All-Circle Potluck, on August 20 in the evening. As always, it will be a fun evening together, and a wonderful opportunity to learn about missions in the church.
Sign up for our Summer Mission Project
Our BeachFaith Kids have been hosting LemonAid stands to raise money for Imagine No Malaria! Thanks to everyone who's been a part of this project.
YOU can still be a part of it, too!!! Will you sign up HERE?
We're making a difference. Read a recent update about the progress of the United Methodist Church's Imagine No Malaria campaign, and the impact it is making in sub-Saharan Africa.
Fall Sermon Series and Study: First
Putting God First in Faith and Finances
During the month of September, our church will hear about God's generosity and our response as we experience our stewardship program, first: putting GOD first in living and giving, developed by author and pastor Mike Slaughter of Ginghamsburg Church. There will be opportunities in worship, in small groups, in youth and children's classes, and in devotions that can be used at church or at home.
We are made in God's image and are meant to be creators of life and hope, not the consumers of our culture's shiny gods. We have the ability to change the world and create a legacy that will live forever in the lives of generations to follow. That legacy starts when each of us takes the hard steps of financial discipline and fulfilling the call to generosity that God has placed in all of us.
Parking Reminder: If you are able, we encourage you to park at the Wells Fargo bank on Sunday mornings, and walk across the street, reserving the parking lot for those with mobility challenges or for new visitors. We also have a bike rack on the patio, for those who choose to bike to church. Thanks for your consideration.What an Amazing Show!
"Disney's 101
Dalmatians Kids" was a great success. Our thanks to Katherine Stanfill, who pulled it all together (including two weeks of amazing summer camp experiences).
Thanks also to everyone who helped, including staff and volunteers who were here through the two weeks of camp:
Theatre Camp Intern Emily Horowitz, Children's Intern Mele Tuuholoaki,
Children's Assistant Meagan Callahan, Youth Director Stephen Hale,
Youth Assistant Jen Jacques, Nursery Coordinator Adriana Hwang, PianistMary Ann Stickler, Office Administrator Ernie Valenzuela, and Pastor Molly Vetter. Plus Priscilla Tuuholoaki, Eunice Tuuholoaki, Grace Tuuholoaki, Grace Martens, Will Martens, Bryan Hwang, Brigitte Ahrens, Audrey Ahrens, Abbie Gray, Sheli Gray.
Check out some photos from the dress rehearsal
GOLF TOURNAMENT: September 12, first tee time 10 a.m.
Register now for our 2015 Church Golf Tournament on Saturday, September 12 at Alondra Park Golf Course. It's a Four-Person Scramble--register as an individual or a whole team. The tournament fee is $75 per golfer, which includes green fees, prizes and more! All proceeds will go to support the ministry of our church. Sign up by September 2. More information online
Men's Study Group Meeting: Monday, 8/17, 7pm in May Day Parlor
Our new men's ministry group is meeting this coming Monday, Aug. 17th at 7:00 PM. We want to invite all men of the church to this meeting. If you are interested, talk to anyone of the following:
Chad Ahrens, Gary Baughman, Paul Caldwell, Carl Harrison, John Kirk, Don Pearson, Darrell Uran & Joe Zeiler
From the Lay Leader, Johnna Kosnoff
bi-weekly thoughts and reflections from our church Lay Leader
How do you wrap others in Jesus' love?
As I've been revising our Skills and Interest Questionnaire for Check Into Church 2015, I've been thinking about congregational care. I was pleasantly surprised to receive this month's UMC Interpreter magazine and see that the UMC is also focused on congregational care. One of its articles reminded me that Ephesians 4:11-12 says that Jesus gave us pastor's "to equip God's people for the work of serving and building up the body of Christ." Taking care of the body of Christ isn't just Pastor Molly's job, it's OUR job too.
Just last week Molly preached on James 1, which includes the verse about being doers of the word, not just hearers of..."
Read the rest of Johnna's recent "From the Lay Leader" column on our website by clicking here.
bi-weekly thoughts and reflections from our church Lay Leader
How do you wrap others in Jesus' love?
As I've been revising our Skills and Interest Questionnaire for Check Into Church 2015, I've been thinking about congregational care. I was pleasantly surprised to receive this month's UMC Interpreter magazine and see that the UMC is also focused on congregational care. One of its articles reminded me that Ephesians 4:11-12 says that Jesus gave us pastor's "to equip God's people for the work of serving and building up the body of Christ." Taking care of the body of Christ isn't just Pastor Molly's job, it's OUR job too.
Just last week Molly preached on James 1, which includes the verse about being doers of the word, not just hearers of..."
Read the rest of Johnna's recent "From the Lay Leader" column on our website by clicking here.
"How do you wrap others in Jesus' love?" by Johnna Kosnoff
As I’ve been revising our Skills and Interest Questionnaire for Check Into Church 2015, I’ve been thinking about congregational care. I was pleasantly surprised to receive this month’s UMC Interpreter magazine and see that the UMC is also focused on congregational care. One of its articles reminded me that Ephesians 4:11-12 says that Jesus gave us pastor’s “to equip God’s people for the work of serving and building up the body of Christ.” Taking care of the body of Christ isn’t just Pastor Molly’s job, it’s OUR job too.
Just last week Molly preached on James 1, which includes the verse about being doers of the word, not just hearers of the word. Delivering a meal, offering a ride, praying for others, listening to stories, encouraging others in times of need, celebrating joys, grieving loss and disappointments, greeting a newcomer and offering cookies at our social-hour table are all ways to be doers of the word, to care for the body of Christ and to wrap others in Jesus’ love.
On August 30th, you will be given the chance to volunteer for some of these activities (and more) when you “Check Into Church” by completing the 2015 Skills and Interest Questionnaire. Caring isn’t always easy. Yet, Romans 12 reminds us that we are to use the gifts God has given us to serve others. Caring for others is one way we reveal Christ to the world. It’s how we grow in our faith as individuals and in community. Wrapping others in Jesus’ love is how we transform the world as disciples of Jesus Christ. Let’s use our gifts to wrap one another snugly.
The Lay Looker, Bob Peterson
a view from the pew from a longtime member of our church
Read Bob's recent Lay Looker columns on our website by clicking here.
New Worship Musicians Hired
Our Staff-Parish Relations Committee is pleased to share the news that we have hired band musicians to be with us on a regular basis. We are really excited about the quality of musicians, and hope you will take a chance to get to know them more: Mary Ann Stickler, organist/pianist; Gaku Murata, guitar; Cris Monarch, piano; Bryan Fougner, bass; Ed Zajac, drums/percussion.
By rearranging job descriptions, we are able to hire four band musicians without any significant change to our music budget. We are really excited about the quality of musicians, and hope you will take a chance to get to know them more.
Last week, we introduced you to the band. This week, we'd like to say a bit more about Mary Ann Stickler, our Pianist/Organist:
a view from the pew from a longtime member of our church
Read Bob's recent Lay Looker columns on our website by clicking here.
New Worship Musicians Hired
Our Staff-Parish Relations Committee is pleased to share the news that we have hired band musicians to be with us on a regular basis. We are really excited about the quality of musicians, and hope you will take a chance to get to know them more: Mary Ann Stickler, organist/pianist; Gaku Murata, guitar; Cris Monarch, piano; Bryan Fougner, bass; Ed Zajac, drums/percussion.
By rearranging job descriptions, we are able to hire four band musicians without any significant change to our music budget. We are really excited about the quality of musicians, and hope you will take a chance to get to know them more.
Last week, we introduced you to the band. This week, we'd like to say a bit more about Mary Ann Stickler, our Pianist/Organist:
With a Master's of Music degree from the American Conservatory of Music, Mary Ann Stickler has an extensive background in music and theatre. She was on staff at both the American Conservatory of Music, where she taught theory, sight singing and piano, and more recently at the VanderCook College of Music, where she taught theory, piano, choral arranging, theatre workshop and developed an online class for teaching theory at the secondary level.
As a pianist and accompanist, she has performed all over the country, including at Carnegie Hall in New York. She has composed or arranged over a dozen musicals and has brought her talents to numerous churches.
We have put more information about all of our musicians on our website. We've loved not only the skill they bring to their music, but also their devotion in worship, their willingness to work with young musicians from our church, and more.
What We Heard:
Worship Questionnaire
Our Worship and Music Committee asked you to respond to a survey questionnaire at the beginning of June. We wanted to share what we heard, and affirm our commitment to continuing to offer meaningful worship for our intergenerational church community.
Our Church Council recently confirmed our current Sunday worship schedule, with a casual 8:30am service in Epworth Lounge, and a celebration worship in the sanctuary at 10:30.
You can read our detailed summary of questionnaire responses here; it will be shared this Sunday, too.
Shared Bread
is looking for volunteers
to wash the dish towels they use every Wednesday. (It's usually about two loads worth.) Just pick them up Wednesday at 7:30pm or Thursday during office hours, launder them and return before the next Wednesday's meal. A laundry basket is provided. Go to our sign up genius page to view open dates.
Mid-Year Finance Update
As we enter the second half of the calendar and budget year, we are somewhat behind in contributions to the church. To date, our giving is about $21,000 under what we budgeted; currently, our expenses are also under budget, so our year-to-date deficit is just under $5,000.
Our Finance Committee has prepared a bit more detailed information, which is available here.
Our annual budget is around $500,000, and supports our wonderful staff, helps care for our facilities, and reaches out beyond our walls in mission. By clicking the link above, you can learn more about what ministries our budget supports, and some opportunities to give in support of our work together.
As a pianist and accompanist, she has performed all over the country, including at Carnegie Hall in New York. She has composed or arranged over a dozen musicals and has brought her talents to numerous churches.
We have put more information about all of our musicians on our website. We've loved not only the skill they bring to their music, but also their devotion in worship, their willingness to work with young musicians from our church, and more.
What We Heard:
Worship Questionnaire
Our Worship and Music Committee asked you to respond to a survey questionnaire at the beginning of June. We wanted to share what we heard, and affirm our commitment to continuing to offer meaningful worship for our intergenerational church community.
Our Church Council recently confirmed our current Sunday worship schedule, with a casual 8:30am service in Epworth Lounge, and a celebration worship in the sanctuary at 10:30.
You can read our detailed summary of questionnaire responses here; it will be shared this Sunday, too.
Shared Bread
is looking for volunteers
to wash the dish towels they use every Wednesday. (It's usually about two loads worth.) Just pick them up Wednesday at 7:30pm or Thursday during office hours, launder them and return before the next Wednesday's meal. A laundry basket is provided. Go to our sign up genius page to view open dates.
Mid-Year Finance Update
As we enter the second half of the calendar and budget year, we are somewhat behind in contributions to the church. To date, our giving is about $21,000 under what we budgeted; currently, our expenses are also under budget, so our year-to-date deficit is just under $5,000.
Our Finance Committee has prepared a bit more detailed information, which is available here.
Our annual budget is around $500,000, and supports our wonderful staff, helps care for our facilities, and reaches out beyond our walls in mission. By clicking the link above, you can learn more about what ministries our budget supports, and some opportunities to give in support of our work together.
READERS FOR SUNDAY WORSHIP & Morning Snack Hosts
We are always looking for people who want to be a part of Sunday morning worship & fellowship. If you would like to be liturgist at either the 8:30 or 10:30 service (or both) just click the following link. On the same page, you may sign up to host morning snacks, too. It's a wonderful way to serve. (Details are on the sign up page.) You will receive email confirmation of the date and the office will email all the reading a couple days before. SIGN UP HERE
Prayer Quilt Ministry:
Dyeing Workshop
Friday, August 28, 10am-noon
For our August prayer quilt meeting, Pastor Molly will lead us in a fabric dyeing workshop.
If you wish, bring 100% cotton white fabric or a white piece of clothing to dye. Please pre-wash your fabric. More details will follow. If you do not want to dye something of your own, you can help dye some fabric to use as quilt backs.
New people are always welcome--no experience necessary.
We are always looking for people who want to be a part of Sunday morning worship & fellowship. If you would like to be liturgist at either the 8:30 or 10:30 service (or both) just click the following link. On the same page, you may sign up to host morning snacks, too. It's a wonderful way to serve. (Details are on the sign up page.) You will receive email confirmation of the date and the office will email all the reading a couple days before. SIGN UP HERE
Prayer Quilt Ministry:
Dyeing Workshop
Friday, August 28, 10am-noon
For our August prayer quilt meeting, Pastor Molly will lead us in a fabric dyeing workshop.
If you wish, bring 100% cotton white fabric or a white piece of clothing to dye. Please pre-wash your fabric. More details will follow. If you do not want to dye something of your own, you can help dye some fabric to use as quilt backs.
New people are always welcome--no experience necessary.
Book Club: September 3, 7pm
Book Club met on July 16 to discuss "The Well Women." With several new members, the club has selected as its next read, "Cry, the Beloved Country." Written by Alan Paton and published in 1948, this impassioned novel is the deeply moving story of a native pastor and his son, set against apartheid South Africa, a land and a people riven by racial injustice. Remarkable for its lyricism, unforgettable for character and incident, the book is a classic work of love and hope, courage and endurance, born of the dignity of man. The novel is available on Amazon. Next meeting is set for Thursday, September 3, at 7 pm, at church. All are welcome. For information, contact Ann Gallaghermdgapg@verizon.net
or Laura Thatcher larzlaw@gmail.com
A Caring Community
Did you know that we have a ministry that organizes meals and other assistance for church folks in times of need? In the past, we've helped arrange rides to medical appointments, meals for people recovering from surgery, and more. Leila Grantz coordinates this ministry, using online sign-up tools. If you want to be a part of the group that she emails when there is an opportunity to help, or if you know someone who's in need of a little help, please contact the church office or Leila.
Save the Date...
First UMC Redondo Beach
Women's Spiritual Weekend Retreat
February 5 - 7, 2016
La Casa de Maria
Santa Barbara, California
We will learn about leading a simple, beautiful and amazing life.
Our four sessions will include:
Expectation Be Gone! Are We Happy Yet?
Pause for Peace and Living a Simple Life, Home and Faith.
Come and be refreshed!
Leader: Rev Nicole Reilley
Total Cost: $275 (for two nights, six meals, program)
Limited space available - reserve your spot TODAY!
($100 non-refundable deposit required to reserve your spot)
Questions? Contact any of the following:
Peggy Mercer - plmercer2@aol.com
Eloise Elder - sam.elder@verizon.net
Rebecca Thomas - rthomas310@gmail.com
Susanne Paulson - susannecam@msn.com
Altar Flowers 2015
Would you like to purchase altar flowers for the sanctuary for Sunday worship? It's easy! Just click this link and fill out the order form.
Cost: $45
Community Events and Other Opportunities:
click these headings for links for more information
Riviera UMC's Rejoice in Art! Fine Art Fair and Exhibition: October 16 & 17, 2015
(show continues thru Oct 30)
California-based artists are invited to enter the juried show "An Ocean View."
Deadline to enter is August 19. Click here for more info
West District Training Conference: for Current and Emerging Leaders January 30, 2016 , 8am - 2pm @ Holman UMC Click here for more info
Like us on Facebook!
Visit the page and "like" us so you can see and share the latest photos, news and links from the church.
This Week at Church...
All-Church Work Day: Sat, Aug 15, 8:30am - noon
Men's Study group meeting: Mon, Aug 17, 7pm in May Day Parlor
Raging Waters Trip (4th-12th grades): Tue, Aug 18, 9am -7pm
UMW All-Circle Potluck: Thu, Aug 20, 6pm in Fellowship Hall
Youth Lock-in: Sat, Aug 22---ALL NIGHT
Nursery (6 weeks+):
The Nursery is open during both services, for ages 6 weeks to 6 yrs old.(Three year olds and older attend Sunday School.) Located right off of the parking lot across Epworth Lounge. Any questions email the NurseryCoordinator: Adriana Hwang
Children's Ministry (age 3 - 3rd Grade & Church R Us: grades 4-5):
10:30am: There is NO Sunday School this week. Children may be in worship. Be sure to grab a special children's bulletin in the back.
Youth Group (6th-12th grade):
-Youth Group on Sunday (Aug 16th, 3-5pm)!
-Raging Waters Tuesday (Aug18th)! RSVP to Stephen if you want to go!
-Back to School Lock-In Saturday night! 7pm-church the next morning! Five bucks (to pay for game supplies)!
-Last Tuesday Lunch of the summer: August 25th at 1pm
For more info on upcoming youth events, check our website!
Men's Breakfast: Our next breakfast is Monday, August 17, at 7AM.Coco's Restaurant, 18120 Hawthorne Blvd. (Hawthorne and 182nd) All men of the church and their friends are welcome to join us for fellowship.
20/30 group: This young adult group is a casual gathering of people intheir 20's and 30's looking to connect with other young adults who attend the same church. Contact Amanda Kuczun for info on upcoming events!
First United Methodist Church of Redondo Beach
310-372-8445 main
Book Club met on July 16 to discuss "The Well Women." With several new members, the club has selected as its next read, "Cry, the Beloved Country." Written by Alan Paton and published in 1948, this impassioned novel is the deeply moving story of a native pastor and his son, set against apartheid South Africa, a land and a people riven by racial injustice. Remarkable for its lyricism, unforgettable for character and incident, the book is a classic work of love and hope, courage and endurance, born of the dignity of man. The novel is available on Amazon. Next meeting is set for Thursday, September 3, at 7 pm, at church. All are welcome. For information, contact Ann Gallaghermdgapg@verizon.net
or Laura Thatcher larzlaw@gmail.com
A Caring Community
Did you know that we have a ministry that organizes meals and other assistance for church folks in times of need? In the past, we've helped arrange rides to medical appointments, meals for people recovering from surgery, and more. Leila Grantz coordinates this ministry, using online sign-up tools. If you want to be a part of the group that she emails when there is an opportunity to help, or if you know someone who's in need of a little help, please contact the church office or Leila.
Save the Date...
First UMC Redondo Beach
Women's Spiritual Weekend Retreat
February 5 - 7, 2016
La Casa de Maria
Santa Barbara, California
We will learn about leading a simple, beautiful and amazing life.
Our four sessions will include:
Expectation Be Gone! Are We Happy Yet?
Pause for Peace and Living a Simple Life, Home and Faith.
Come and be refreshed!
Leader: Rev Nicole Reilley
Total Cost: $275 (for two nights, six meals, program)
Limited space available - reserve your spot TODAY!
($100 non-refundable deposit required to reserve your spot)
Questions? Contact any of the following:
Peggy Mercer - plmercer2@aol.com
Eloise Elder - sam.elder@verizon.net
Rebecca Thomas - rthomas310@gmail.com
Susanne Paulson - susannecam@msn.com
Altar Flowers 2015
Would you like to purchase altar flowers for the sanctuary for Sunday worship? It's easy! Just click this link and fill out the order form.
Cost: $45
Community Events and Other Opportunities:
click these headings for links for more information
Riviera UMC's Rejoice in Art! Fine Art Fair and Exhibition: October 16 & 17, 2015
(show continues thru Oct 30)
California-based artists are invited to enter the juried show "An Ocean View."
Deadline to enter is August 19. Click here for more info
West District Training Conference: for Current and Emerging Leaders January 30, 2016 , 8am - 2pm @ Holman UMC Click here for more info
Like us on Facebook!Visit the page and "like" us so you can see and share the latest photos, news and links from the church.
This Week at Church...
All-Church Work Day: Sat, Aug 15, 8:30am - noon
Men's Study group meeting: Mon, Aug 17, 7pm in May Day Parlor
Raging Waters Trip (4th-12th grades): Tue, Aug 18, 9am -7pm
UMW All-Circle Potluck: Thu, Aug 20, 6pm in Fellowship Hall
Youth Lock-in: Sat, Aug 22---ALL NIGHT
Nursery (6 weeks+):
The Nursery is open during both services, for ages 6 weeks to 6 yrs old.(Three year olds and older attend Sunday School.) Located right off of the parking lot across Epworth Lounge. Any questions email the NurseryCoordinator: Adriana Hwang
Children's Ministry (age 3 - 3rd Grade & Church R Us: grades 4-5):
10:30am: There is NO Sunday School this week. Children may be in worship. Be sure to grab a special children's bulletin in the back.
Youth Group (6th-12th grade):
-Youth Group on Sunday (Aug 16th, 3-5pm)!
-Raging Waters Tuesday (Aug18th)! RSVP to Stephen if you want to go!
-Back to School Lock-In Saturday night! 7pm-church the next morning! Five bucks (to pay for game supplies)!
-Last Tuesday Lunch of the summer: August 25th at 1pm
For more info on upcoming youth events, check our website!
Men's Breakfast: Our next breakfast is Monday, August 17, at 7AM.Coco's Restaurant, 18120 Hawthorne Blvd. (Hawthorne and 182nd) All men of the church and their friends are welcome to join us for fellowship.
20/30 group: This young adult group is a casual gathering of people intheir 20's and 30's looking to connect with other young adults who attend the same church. Contact Amanda Kuczun for info on upcoming events!
First United Methodist Church of Redondo Beach
310-372-8445 main
310-372-5696 fax
Reverend Molly Vetter, Lead & Teaching Pastor PastorMolly@beachfaith.com
Ernie Valenzuela, Administrative Assistant x101 Ernie@beachfaith.com
First United Methodist Church
Reverend Molly Vetter, Lead & Teaching Pastor PastorMolly@beachfaith.com
Ernie Valenzuela, Administrative Assistant x101 Ernie@beachfaith.com
First United Methodist Church
243 South Broadway Street
Redondo Beach, California 90277 United States
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