Spring Forward This Sunday for worship: Giving to God our witness.
Children's Choir rehearsal and a Potluck after 10:30 worship!
From Pastor Molly: With Our Witness
Last weekend on the Confirmation Retreat, on Saturday night, we planned to remember and renew our baptisms in worship. With young people and adult volunteers from across our region, we gathered at the campfire ring there at Lazy W Ranch, in the mountains above San Juan Capistrano. As our Bishop Minerva Carcaño was sharing a testimony from her own childhood, it began to drizzle. The rain was so gentle that it didn't stop her, but as she finished speaking, I could see the leaders trying to decide what to do, as the whole group of us was beginning to get quite wet.
Generally, I'm not a fan of being wet at the campfire, but we were there, after all, to remember our baptisms. In a moment of recognition, the whole group of us realized that we had already been covered in holy water that had rained down from above. We held out our hands, welcoming this reminder of God's grace, of new life, of our belonging in Christ. As I touched my hair, my sweatshirt, my jeans, I felt how much water had fallen on me, even while I hadn't really noticed. Like God's love, it had come to me without my fully recognizing it.
Over to the side were the plastic bowl and pitcher of water we had borrowed from the camp dining hall, to use to hold baptismal waters. They looked so small in comparison to the enormous love of God that had fallen gently down all around us. What a blessing to witness this sign of God's abundance! [Pastor Molly Vetter]
In Worship This Week
Sunday, March 13
Fifth Sunday of Lent: Witness
Scripture: John 12:1-8John 12:1 Six days before Pesach, Yeshua came to Beit-Anyah, where El‘azar lived, the man Yeshua had raised from the dead; 2 so they gave a dinner there in his honor. Marta served the meal, and El‘azar was among those at the table with him. 3 Miryam took a whole pint of pure oil of spikenard, which is very expensive, poured it on Yeshua’s feet and wiped his feet with her hair, so that the house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume. 4 But one of the talmidim, Y’hudah from K’riot, the one who was about to betray him, said, 5 “This perfume is worth a year’s wages! Why wasn’t it sold and the money given to the poor?” 6 Now he said this not out of concern for the poor, but because he was a thief — he was in charge of the common purse and used to steal from it. 7 Yeshua said, “Leave her alone! She kept this for the day of my burial. 8 You always have the poor among you, but you will not always have me.”
John Wesley's Notes-Commentary for John 12:1-8
Verse 2
[2] There they made him a supper; and Martha served: but Lazarus was one of them that sat at the table with him.
It seems Martha was a person of some figure, from the great respect which was paid to her and her sister, in visits and condolences on Lazarus's death, as well as from the costly ointment mentioned in the next verse. And probably it was at their house our Lord and his disciples lodged, when he returned from Jerusalem to Bethany, every evening of the last week of his life, upon which he was now entered.
Verse 3
[3] Then took Mary a pound of ointment of spikenard, very costly, and anointed the feet of Jesus, and wiped his feet with her hair: and the house was filled with the odour of the ointment.
Then Mary, taking a pound of ointment — There were two persons who poured ointment on Christ. One toward the beginning of his ministry, at or near Nain, Luke 7:37, etc. The other six days before his last passover, at Bethany; the account of whom is given here, as well as by St. Matthew and Mark.
Verse 7
[7] Then said Jesus, Let her alone: against the day of my burying hath she kept this.
Against the day of my burial — Which now draws nigh.
Pastor Molly, preaching
8:30am in Epworth Lounge
10:30am in the Sanctuary
Anthem: "Who'll Be a Witness?," by Jester Hairston
My soul is a witness for my Lord
My soul is a witness for my Lord
My soul is a witness for my Lord
My soul is a witness for my Lord
You read in the Bible and you understand
Metuselah was the oldest man
He lived nine hundred and ninety nine
He died and went to Heav'n, Lord, in a-due time
Metuselah was a witness for my Lord
Metuselah was a witness for my Lord
Metuselah was a witness for my Lord
Metuselah was a witness for my Lord
You read in the Bible and you understand
Samson was the strongest man
Samson went out at-a one time
And he killed about a thousand of the Philistine
Delilah fooled Samson, this-a we know
For the Holy Bible tells us so
She saved off his head just as clean as your hand
And his strength became the same as any natural man
O, Samson was a witness for my Lord
Samson was a witness for my Lord
Samson was a witness for my Lord
Samson was a witness for my Lord
Daniel was a Hebrew child
He went to pray his God a-while
The king at once for Daniel did send
And he put him right down in the lion's den
God snt His angels the lion-a for to keep
And Daniel laid down and went to sleep
Now, Daniel was a witness for my Lord
Samson was a witness for my Lord
Samson was a witness for my Lord
Samson was a witness for my Lord
O, who'll be a witness for my Lord
Who'll be a witness for my Lord
My soul is a witness for my Lord
My soul is a witness for my Lord
Listen to Sermons onlineVisit our Website
During Lent: Spiritual Practices
We invite you to take on spiritual practices during Lent. Using the five commitments of our church's membership vows, we are asking you to come up with five promises about how you will seek to live out your faith. We encourage you to form a small group of others to Check In with along the way. Read more here.
How's it Going with your Lenten Promises and Practices?
Pastor Molly would love to hear about the ways you've been living out your faith with your prayers, your presence, your gifts, your service and your witness! If you have a moment to send an email, post on Facebook, or say something the next time you see here, please do!
Daylight Savings Time begins this Sunday.
Set your clocks ahead one hour at bedtime Saturday night.
News From Our Members
"Last Sunday's worship services were led by Rev. Allison Mark with preaching by Staff Member Jen Jacques and both were well prepared and much appreciated. They served while Pastor Molly Vetter attended a retreat for our student confirmation class. It's wonderful that things can still be so efficient while our leader is busy elsewhere. Of course Ernie Valenzuela and the rest of the staff were there doing their best to make the transition smooth..."
Read more here
Last Sunday's worship services were led by Rev. Allison Mark with preaching by Staff Member Jen Jacques and both were well prepared and much appreciated. They served while Pastor Molly Vetter attended a retreat for our student confirmation class. It's wonderful that things can still be so efficient while our leader is busy elsewhere. Of course Ernie Valenzuela and the rest of the staff were there doing their best to make the transition smooth.
Speaking of last week, I helped a wee bit during Friday's UMW Rummage Sale and even though the ladies tell me they had less “stuff” to sell, it looked the same as always to me. We had the morning rush to buy, the frantic shoppers who filled bags totaling as much as $100.00, people who bought just a few items and the great Naomi Cafe luncheon specializing in tasty taco salads. To this observer, it seem to go on about as usual. Yes there were the people who tried to bargain the already very cheap prices and those who changed their minds when asked to pay $3.00 for something, but, all in all it seemed to me to be the typical Spring Rummage Sale, and they did make a goodly amount of money for all their hard work. Thanks to every volunteer, donor and worker.
This Sunday will see another Methodist tradition, the March 13 Pot-Luck Luncheon about noon following Worship Services. If you are like me, you will enjoy the options and fill your plate with delicious choices that are the best our people can make and bring to church. Me? I don't cook, so I'll pick up a pie, enjoy the fellowship and hope to see you at the monthly Pot-Luck Luncheon.
Coming at Church
Children's Choir to Sing on Palm Sunday
At 10am on March 20, we will celebrate Palm Sunday with a special donkey-led palm procession in the sanctuary. There, after a short lesson with Pastor Molly, the children will sing a song.
If you have children age 3-5th grade, we hope they will join the choir! There is one more rehearsal: March 13, from 11:40am-noon, in the Choir Room! Download lyrics here.
Parents Night Out: This Spring!
Families are invited to join us for Parents' Night out: March 18, April 23, May 20
RSVP to children@beachfaith.com asap to make sure there's a spot for your family!
Sponsored by Children and Family Ministries.
Changes: Children & Family Ministries
We are looking for a new Director of Children and Family Ministries--we encourage you to check out our job posting, and pass it along to people you know of who might apply!
Thank you to the many people who have stepped up as volunteers with our Sunday School! New volunteers are welcome--come help or teach. Questions? Contact Adriana
Youth MAYHEM in March!
There will be MAYHEM in Youth Group on Sunday (3/13, 3-5pm)! This is a day of messy, messy games. Bring
Clothes that can get...ruined...
A change of clothes, and
A towel. And maybe a comb...
And your friends!
Support our Children's Easter Egg Hunt by filling some eggs for them. Empty eggs are available to pick up at church--please take a bag and fill them with small treats (stickers, etc) or candy (please, no nuts or chocolate). Bring them back to church by March 20!
You are invited to make a donation to purchase an Easter lily or flowers for the cross in honor or memory of someone. Forms are available at church or use this link to order online.
Palm Sunday: Procession at 10am
Join us for worship at 8:30 & 10:30, plus a special palm procession--with donkey!--at10am. The children will sing, too. After worship, stay for tacos (to raise money for the Baja mission trip) and an Activities Fair in Fellowship Hall.
Good Friday worship at 7:30pm
Share in a moving worship experience, as we meditate on the 7 last words of Christ. Featuring our Choir, singing Dale Wood's "Service of Darkness," plus candlelight, prayer and more.
Celebrate Easter with Us!
Worship at 8:30 & 10:30am, plus an Easter Egg Hunt at 10am on the lawn! Or join us at 6:30am for a Sunrise Service on Torrance Beach. Our 10:30 service includes a brass ensemble and more!
Potluck Lunch this Sunday!
We invite you to join your church family for a potluck after 10:30 worship on theMarch 13. Bring a dish to share - enjoy the fellowship!
Mark your calendars for the next three potlucks:April 3, May 1 & June 5.
Book Club: Our next book is "I Am Malala: the Girl Who Stood Up for Education and Was Shot by the Taliban."Author Malala Yousafzai was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for her act of defiance. Join us TONIGHT, March 10 at 7pm in May Day Parlor. More info online; email Ann or Laura.
Vacation Bible School 2016: August 1-5
We hope you can join us for VBS, for ages 3-8th grade! We'll be looking for young "surfers" to attend, and volunteers of all ages.
Baja Trip 2016: July 16-23
Youth and others from the church can sign up now to be a part of Baja Mission 2016, as we return to Mexico for another week this summer.
Now is the time to think about whether you can join us this summer--the trip will be July 16-23, and is open to people of all ages.
Visit our website for more information!
Announcements
Men's Breakfast: Our next breakfast is Monday, March 21, 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 in their 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!
Prayer Quilt Ministry: Know someone in need of prayer? You can sponsor a free prayer quilt for them. Next Quilt Workshop: Friday, March 18, 10am-noon. This meeting will include a quilt backing/binding tutorial and we will work on various projects. Through April we will meet on the Third Friday of each Month! More information is online.
Meals and More: 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.
This Week: Children, Youth & Adults
Nursery (6 weeks+):
The Nursery is open during both services, for ages 6 weeks to 6 yrs old. Located right off of the parking lot across from Epworth Lounge. Any questions email the Nursery Coordinator: Adriana Hwang
Children's Ministry (age 3 - 3rd Grade & Church R Us: grades 4-5):
10:30am Sunday School: Sunday's Bible Story: "Mary Anoints Jesus" (John 12:1-8)
Church R Us (Special Class for Grades 4 & 5):
10:30am: CRU meets above the Nursery! Sunday's Lesson: "Mary Anoints Jesus" (John 12:1-8)
Youth Ministry (6th-12th grade):
-Yep! Middle school Sunday School this week!
-Youth Group? Yep! We're having Mayhem in March! Bring clothes you can get VERY messy, a change of clothes, and a towel. Invite friends! It'll be more fun than 10 kids.
Adult Sunday School: Bible Study and Discussion in May Day Parlor. Sunday mornings from 9:30-10:15am. Led by Helen Stockwell. (Feb 28 will meet in Epworth Lounge)
Thursday Pastor's Bible Study:
Thursday mornings from 11:00-noon, in May Day Parlor. Led by Pastor Molly.
United Methodist News & Events
Our congregation is a part of the El Tordondo Mission Area, in the West District of theCalifornia-Pacific Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church.
Call to Prayer: Fiji
The California-Pacific Conference is called to prayer for Fiji after a cyclone has killed 29 people and has raised the potential for outbreaks of Zika and Dengue viruses.
Bishop Minerva G. Carcaño has conveyed prayers of encouragement to General Board of Global Ministries Missionary family the Neal's (Wes, Jerusha, Mercy and Josiah), of which Rev. Wesley Neal is a member of the California-Pacific Conference, who have been serving in Fiji since 2014.
Just recently, they sent an update on the on-the-ground conditions. Read the letter here.
From the Neal’s (Fiji) – February 2016
February 23, 2016
Dear friends,
It has been several days without power and our phones have lost charge – so we have been out of contact for a time. But we’ve driven to Suva to send this update. Slowly but surely, on this southeast corner of the island things are returning to normal. Each day we see large supply planes from New Zealand flying into the Nausori airport carrying supplies for the hard hit communities about an hour north of us. It is amazing what a difference an hour can make.
The storm has been described as one of the worst in the southern hemisphere – and many of the faculty at DTC who have lived long in this country confirm that. “Domo” means throat, a DTC Lecturer said to me. “And bula means life. To use the words together is a way of describing a fear that chokes life from the throat.” The phrase describes her feelings last Saturday night, when the wind roared around the small, wooden houses of Davuilevu. She had not experienced anything like it since the hurricane that hit Fiji in 1972.
We are very grateful at Davuilevu. Our community is slightly inland and on high ground. While we are still clearing felled trees and know that the downed power lines will stay “down” for at least another week, we were spared major structural damage. Many of the houses have water damage from cracks in the roofs and windows, but they all have their roofs…which is not the case for many of our pastor friends, teachers and chaplains on the north side of the island. In the area to the north – where the eye of the storm came ashore – a student who graduated last year and is now working as a chaplain in a secondary school had her home destroyed. Another pastor spent the night in his bathroom with his three young children after his home was blown away. Four sons of students here on campus had the ceiling of their boarding school dormitory collapse. Amazingly, none of these families sustained injuries.
The death toll does continue to rise as news comes in from the remote villages of Vanua Levu (the large island to the north). Currently, that number stands between 10-20. But most of the hardest hit areas are still out of cell phone contact, and that has been one of most difficult things for our students. Many have family members in villages that stood in harms way but have been unable to confirm their safety. There are a number of reports of villages that lost all of their homes. We know that the family of Wes’s yaca (namesake) lives near some of these villages. We have not yet been able to reach them.
In the midst of the uncertainty, Davuilevu has been shining its light. On Saturday night, as her family mopped up the water that was already pouring through the windows, a lecturer called our home. “We just wanted you know to know we are standing together with you in prayer,” the lecturer said. Although our homes were separated by darkness and howling winds, our hearts were united. Earlier in the afternoon, a team of soaked students and their sons had come by each house in the pouring rain to make sure that every window at risk was covered with tin. The boys dorm opened their rooms for Hindu and Muslim neighbors whose houses were already flooding. In the days after the storm, the community has continued to gather for worship and prayer before community work – praying “masu masu” style, where all members of the community raise their voiced prayers simultaneously, creating a river of prayer that overflows from our community.
Perhaps one of the most precious moments for our family was seeing the bravery God gave our children. Last Saturday night, power was lost and we were sleeping on our living room floor as it was the room that was safest from falling trees. The wind was as loud as a freight train. But in good Fijian style, our children decided that singing was in order. We found the hymn “When the Storm of Life are Raging” in our UMC Hymnal and Mercy and Josiah started singing as loud as their voices could carry – loud enough to drown out the storm. Their faith was a beautiful thing to behold.
This Friday, the Methodist Church in Fiji will have an emergency leadership meeting. At that point we will have a more clear assessment of the damage and ways to help. But until that time, we wanted you to know that we are safe and well. Our water source is a little fragile because of the Rewa river flooding and classes have been cancelled this week because of the lack of power, but we read by flashlight in the evenings and worship and work as we can during the day. We are hoping the flood waters will crest soon and the clean up can begin in earnest for those living on the river banks. Many of the roads in this area are passable now and we are grateful that the Nausori shops with generators are open for business. We are able to get groceries and bottled water as we need.
But we know that these luxuries are not the case in much of Fiji. Please pray for communications lines to be restored and food and water shortages to be ended. Most importantly, pray for the many, many families that no longer have a home in which to stay during this rainy week.
We are grateful for all of your prayers and for all of those who checked in with us during the storm. You are a great encouragement to us.
We are proud to be your missionaries.
Grace and peace through all the storms that you are facing,
Wes, Jerusha, Mercy and Josiah
General Conference 2016
The United Methodist Church’s top legislative body will meet in Portland, Oregon on May 10-20, 2016.
General Conference is the top policy-making body of The United Methodist Church which meets once every four years. The conference can revise church law, as well as adopt resolutions on current moral, social, public policy and economic issues. It also approves plans and budgets for church-wide programs.Read more.
Pastor Molly will attend as a Reserve Delegate for our Annual Conference.
We invite you to join with others in praying for the church before and during this event.
First United Methodist Church of Redondo Beach
Dear friends,
It has been several days without power and our phones have lost charge – so we have been out of contact for a time. But we’ve driven to Suva to send this update. Slowly but surely, on this southeast corner of the island things are returning to normal. Each day we see large supply planes from New Zealand flying into the Nausori airport carrying supplies for the hard hit communities about an hour north of us. It is amazing what a difference an hour can make.
The storm has been described as one of the worst in the southern hemisphere – and many of the faculty at DTC who have lived long in this country confirm that. “Domo” means throat, a DTC Lecturer said to me. “And bula means life. To use the words together is a way of describing a fear that chokes life from the throat.” The phrase describes her feelings last Saturday night, when the wind roared around the small, wooden houses of Davuilevu. She had not experienced anything like it since the hurricane that hit Fiji in 1972.
We are very grateful at Davuilevu. Our community is slightly inland and on high ground. While we are still clearing felled trees and know that the downed power lines will stay “down” for at least another week, we were spared major structural damage. Many of the houses have water damage from cracks in the roofs and windows, but they all have their roofs…which is not the case for many of our pastor friends, teachers and chaplains on the north side of the island. In the area to the north – where the eye of the storm came ashore – a student who graduated last year and is now working as a chaplain in a secondary school had her home destroyed. Another pastor spent the night in his bathroom with his three young children after his home was blown away. Four sons of students here on campus had the ceiling of their boarding school dormitory collapse. Amazingly, none of these families sustained injuries.
The death toll does continue to rise as news comes in from the remote villages of Vanua Levu (the large island to the north). Currently, that number stands between 10-20. But most of the hardest hit areas are still out of cell phone contact, and that has been one of most difficult things for our students. Many have family members in villages that stood in harms way but have been unable to confirm their safety. There are a number of reports of villages that lost all of their homes. We know that the family of Wes’s yaca (namesake) lives near some of these villages. We have not yet been able to reach them.
In the midst of the uncertainty, Davuilevu has been shining its light. On Saturday night, as her family mopped up the water that was already pouring through the windows, a lecturer called our home. “We just wanted you know to know we are standing together with you in prayer,” the lecturer said. Although our homes were separated by darkness and howling winds, our hearts were united. Earlier in the afternoon, a team of soaked students and their sons had come by each house in the pouring rain to make sure that every window at risk was covered with tin. The boys dorm opened their rooms for Hindu and Muslim neighbors whose houses were already flooding. In the days after the storm, the community has continued to gather for worship and prayer before community work – praying “masu masu” style, where all members of the community raise their voiced prayers simultaneously, creating a river of prayer that overflows from our community.
Perhaps one of the most precious moments for our family was seeing the bravery God gave our children. Last Saturday night, power was lost and we were sleeping on our living room floor as it was the room that was safest from falling trees. The wind was as loud as a freight train. But in good Fijian style, our children decided that singing was in order. We found the hymn “When the Storm of Life are Raging” in our UMC Hymnal and Mercy and Josiah started singing as loud as their voices could carry – loud enough to drown out the storm. Their faith was a beautiful thing to behold.
This Friday, the Methodist Church in Fiji will have an emergency leadership meeting. At that point we will have a more clear assessment of the damage and ways to help. But until that time, we wanted you to know that we are safe and well. Our water source is a little fragile because of the Rewa river flooding and classes have been cancelled this week because of the lack of power, but we read by flashlight in the evenings and worship and work as we can during the day. We are hoping the flood waters will crest soon and the clean up can begin in earnest for those living on the river banks. Many of the roads in this area are passable now and we are grateful that the Nausori shops with generators are open for business. We are able to get groceries and bottled water as we need.
But we know that these luxuries are not the case in much of Fiji. Please pray for communications lines to be restored and food and water shortages to be ended. Most importantly, pray for the many, many families that no longer have a home in which to stay during this rainy week.
We are grateful for all of your prayers and for all of those who checked in with us during the storm. You are a great encouragement to us.
We are proud to be your missionaries.
Grace and peace through all the storms that you are facing,
Wes, Jerusha, Mercy and Josiah
General Conference 2016
The United Methodist Church’s top legislative body will meet in Portland, Oregon on May 10-20, 2016.
General Conference is the top policy-making body of The United Methodist Church which meets once every four years. The conference can revise church law, as well as adopt resolutions on current moral, social, public policy and economic issues. It also approves plans and budgets for church-wide programs.Read more.
Pastor Molly will attend as a Reserve Delegate for our Annual Conference.
We invite you to join with others in praying for the church before and during this event.
First United Methodist Church of Redondo Beach
243 South Broadway
Redondo Beach, California 90277, United States
310-372-8445 main
310-372-8445 main
310-372-5696 fax
Website
Ongoing Ministries
The UNITED METHODIST WOMEN'SSpring Rummage and Bake sale was a success due to the efforts of so many volunteers (and shoppers!). Net proceeds of more than $6400 will help continue the UMW's support of local and global missions.
Start your spring cleaning now and bring in your gently used treasures for our next sale in October.
Free Meal on Wednesday Nights
Offering food and friendship to those in need, every Wednesday night since 1992. More info here.
Choir & Our Music Ministry
Join our choir and lend your voice to help us worship God together. Choir rehearses most Wednesday nights, from 7:30-9pm. We are always looking for instrumentalists and musical guests, too. Contact Jim Raycroft for more info.
Register online here for the April 16 house build with Faith United Methodist Church of Torrance.
Corazon "Super Build"
Saturday, April 16: A Corazon house build, involving several churches and volunteer groups working to make a difference in the lives of many.
Email George or Peggy Mercer for more info.
Tell Us About Yourself...
Please take a moment to tell us about your skills and interests through our online questionnaire.
Do You Know Pro Tools or Logic
The Music Department is looking for someone who knows ProTools, Logic, or comparable program for recording and mixing worship service audio.
Contact Jim Raycroft.
We have many spots to fill for liturgists on Sunday mornings. The following link will take you the sign up. Please check it out.
Sunday Worship Liturgist Sign Up
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. Thanks for your consideration.
Connect with us
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Redondo Beach, California, United States First United Methodist Church's eNews: Spiritual Practices for Life--Service. And a rummage sale! for Thursday, March 3, 2016
This Sunday: Giving to God our service.
Children's Choir rehearsal after worship. Children's Volunteer meeting at 9:45!
From Pastor Molly: With Our Service
This is a wonderful week to remember our shared commitment to service. As I write this, our kitchen is busy with volunteers cutting up fruit salad and roasting vegetables for Shared Bread's meal tonight. I know more will come later to serve, and then to clean up. Earlier today, volunteers were stacking rummage on tables for the sale this Friday and Saturday. Others came by the office to help with administrative tasks, balancing our bank deposit and setting up computers. And this is just the people who've come by the church!!
The work of the church happens because of the service of so many.
It's serving that gives us meaning. It lets us know that we belong, and that we have something to contribute. It reminds us to be humble, because we are a part of something so much bigger than ourselves.
We remember Jesus' extraordinary love, and how he demonstrated it by washing the feet of the disciples. This is the example that we seek to follow, as we serve in the church.
So thank you for slicing oranges, for washing dishes, for hauling boxes of rummage. Thank you all the many more for the ways you serve, living out the gracious, humble, life-giving love of Christ.[Pastor Molly Vetter]
I am thrilled that Jen Jacques will be preaching this Sunday, while I am away on a retreat with our Confirmation class. Jen is our Youth Assistant, and is in the Candidacy process for ordination in the UMC; I'm so grateful to be able to walk alongside her as she explores her call to ministry. Also, many thanks to Rev. Nicole Reilley, our Conferece Director of New Ministries, and Rev. Allison Mark, Coordinator of the Young Clergy Initiative of Claremont School of Theology and our Annual Conference--they will be presiding at the communion table during our Sunday worship services.
In Worship This Week
Sunday, March 6
Third Sunday of Lent: Service
Scripture: Luke 15:1-3, 11b-32
Ongoing Ministries
The UNITED METHODIST WOMEN'SSpring Rummage and Bake sale was a success due to the efforts of so many volunteers (and shoppers!). Net proceeds of more than $6400 will help continue the UMW's support of local and global missions.
Start your spring cleaning now and bring in your gently used treasures for our next sale in October.
Free Meal on Wednesday Nights
Offering food and friendship to those in need, every Wednesday night since 1992. More info here.
Choir & Our Music Ministry
Join our choir and lend your voice to help us worship God together. Choir rehearses most Wednesday nights, from 7:30-9pm. We are always looking for instrumentalists and musical guests, too. Contact Jim Raycroft for more info.
Register online here for the April 16 house build with Faith United Methodist Church of Torrance.
Corazon "Super Build"
Saturday, April 16: A Corazon house build, involving several churches and volunteer groups working to make a difference in the lives of many.
Email George or Peggy Mercer for more info.
Tell Us About Yourself...
Please take a moment to tell us about your skills and interests through our online questionnaire.
Do You Know Pro Tools or Logic
The Music Department is looking for someone who knows ProTools, Logic, or comparable program for recording and mixing worship service audio.
Contact Jim Raycroft.
We have many spots to fill for liturgists on Sunday mornings. The following link will take you the sign up. Please check it out.
Sunday Worship Liturgist Sign Up
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. Thanks for your consideration.
Connect with us
---------------------
Redondo Beach, California, United States First United Methodist Church's eNews: Spiritual Practices for Life--Service. And a rummage sale! for Thursday, March 3, 2016
This Sunday: Giving to God our service.
Children's Choir rehearsal after worship. Children's Volunteer meeting at 9:45!
From Pastor Molly: With Our Service
This is a wonderful week to remember our shared commitment to service. As I write this, our kitchen is busy with volunteers cutting up fruit salad and roasting vegetables for Shared Bread's meal tonight. I know more will come later to serve, and then to clean up. Earlier today, volunteers were stacking rummage on tables for the sale this Friday and Saturday. Others came by the office to help with administrative tasks, balancing our bank deposit and setting up computers. And this is just the people who've come by the church!!
The work of the church happens because of the service of so many.
It's serving that gives us meaning. It lets us know that we belong, and that we have something to contribute. It reminds us to be humble, because we are a part of something so much bigger than ourselves.
We remember Jesus' extraordinary love, and how he demonstrated it by washing the feet of the disciples. This is the example that we seek to follow, as we serve in the church.
So thank you for slicing oranges, for washing dishes, for hauling boxes of rummage. Thank you all the many more for the ways you serve, living out the gracious, humble, life-giving love of Christ.[Pastor Molly Vetter]
I am thrilled that Jen Jacques will be preaching this Sunday, while I am away on a retreat with our Confirmation class. Jen is our Youth Assistant, and is in the Candidacy process for ordination in the UMC; I'm so grateful to be able to walk alongside her as she explores her call to ministry. Also, many thanks to Rev. Nicole Reilley, our Conferece Director of New Ministries, and Rev. Allison Mark, Coordinator of the Young Clergy Initiative of Claremont School of Theology and our Annual Conference--they will be presiding at the communion table during our Sunday worship services.
In Worship This Week
Sunday, March 6
Third Sunday of Lent: Service
Scripture: Luke 15:1-3, 11b-32
Luke 15:1 The tax-collectors and sinners kept gathering around to hear Yeshua, 2 and the P’rushim and Torah-teachers kept grumbling. “This fellow,” they said, “welcomes sinners — he even eats with them!” 3 So he told them this parable:
11 Again Yeshua said, “A man had two sons. 12 The younger of them said to his father, ‘Father, give me the share of the estate that will be mine.’ So the father divided the property between them. 13 As soon as he could convert his share into cash, the younger son left home and went off to a distant country, where he squandered his money in reckless living. 14 But after he had spent it all, a severe famine arose throughout that country, and he began to feel the pinch.
15 “So he went and attached himself to one of the citizens of that country, who sent him into his fields to feed pigs. 16 He longed to fill his stomach with the carob pods the pigs were eating, but no one gave him any.
17 “At last he came to his senses and said, ‘Any number of my father’s hired workers have food to spare; and here I am, starving to death! 18 I’m going to get up and go back to my father and say to him, “Father, I have sinned against Heaven and against you; 19 I am no longer worthy to be called your son; treat me like one of your hired workers.” ’ 20 So he got up and started back to his father.
“But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was moved with pity. He ran and threw his arms around him and kissed him warmly. 21 His son said to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against Heaven and against you; I am no longer worthy to be called your son — ’ 22 but his father said to his slaves, ‘Quick, bring out a robe, the best one, and put it on him; and put a ring on his finger and shoes on his feet; 23 and bring the calf that has been fattened up, and kill it. Let’s eat and have a celebration! 24 For this son of mine was dead, but now he’s alive again! He was lost, but now he has been found!’ And they began celebrating.
25 “Now his older son was in the field. As he came close to the house, he heard music and dancing. 26 So he called one of the servants and asked, ‘What’s going on?’ 27 The servant told him, ‘Your brother has come back, and your father has slaughtered the calf that was fattened up, because he has gotten him back safe and sound.’ 28 But the older son became angry and refused to go inside.
“So his father came out and pleaded with him. 29 ‘Look,’ the son answered, ‘I have worked for you all these years, and I have never disobeyed your orders. But you have never even given me a young goat, so that I could celebrate with my friends. 30 Yet this son of yours comes, who squandered your property with prostitutes, and for him you slaughter the fattened calf!’ 31 ‘Son, you are always with me,’ said the father, ‘and everything I have is yours. 32 We had to celebrate and rejoice, because this brother of yours was dead but has come back to life — he was lost but has been found.’”
John Wesley's Notes-Commentary for Luke 15:1-3, 11b-32
Verse 2
[2] Every branch in me that beareth not fruit he taketh away: and every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit.
Every one that beareth fruit, he purifieth — by obeying the truth, 1 Peter 1:22; and by inward or outward sufferings, Hebrews 12:10,11. So purity and fruitfulness help each other.
That it may bear more fruit — For this is one of the noblest rewards God can bestow on former acts of obedience, to make us yet more holy, and fit for farther and more eminent service.
Verse 3
[3] Now ye are clean through the word which I have spoken unto you.
Ye are clean — All of you, to whom I now speak, are purged from the guilt and power of sin; by the word - Which, applied by the Spirit, is the grand instrument of purifying the soul.
Verse 11
[11] These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full.
That my joy might remain in you — The same joy which I feel in loving the Father, and keeping his commandments.
Verse 12
[12] This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you.
Your joy will be full, if ye so love one another.
Verse 13
[13] Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.
Greater love — To his friends. He here speaks of them only.
Verse 14
[14] Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you.
Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you — On this condition, not otherwise. A thunderbolt for Antinomianism! Who then dares assert that God's love does not at all depend on man's works?
Verse 15
[15] Henceforth I call you not servants; for the servant knoweth not what his lord doeth: but I have called you friends; for all things that I have heard of my Father I have made known unto you.
All things — Which might be of service to you.
Verse 16
[16] Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain: that whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in my name, he may give it you.
Ye — My apostles, have not chosen me, but I have chosen you - As clearly appears from the sacred history: and appointed you, that ye may go and bear fruit - I have chosen and appointed you for this end, that ye may go and convert sinners: and that your fruit may remain - That the fruit of your labours may remain to the end of the world; yea, to eternity; that whatsoever ye shall ask - The consequence of your going and bearing fruit will be, that all your prayers will he heard.
Verse 19
[19] If ye were of the world, the world would love his own: but because ye are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hateth you.
Because ye are not of the world, therefore the world hateth you — Because your maxims, tempers, actions, are quite opposite to theirs. For the very same reason must the world in all ages hate those who are not of the world.
Verse 20
[20] Remember the word that I said unto you, The servant is not greater than his lord. If they have persecuted me, they will also persecute you; if they have kept my saying, they will keep yours also.
John 13:16; Matthew 10:24; Luke 6:40.
Verse 21
[21] But all these things will they do unto you for my name's sake, because they know not him that sent me.
All these things will they do to you, because they know not him that sent me — And in all ages and nations they who know not God will, for this cause, hate and persecute those that do.
Verse 22
[22] If I had not come and spoken unto them, they had not had sin: but now they have no cloke for their sin.
They had not had sin — Not in this respect.
Verse 23
[23] He that hateth me hateth my Father also.
He that hateth me — As every unbeliever doth, For as the love of God is inseparable from faith, so is the hatred of God from unbelief.
Verse 25
[25] But this cometh to pass, that the word might be fulfilled that is written in their law, They hated me without a cause.
Psalms 69:4.
Verse 26
[26] But when the Comforter is come, whom I will send unto you from the Father, even the Spirit of truth, which proceedeth from the Father, he shall testify of me:
When the Comforter is come, whom I will send from the Father, the Spirit of truth, who proceedeth from the Father, he shall testify of me — The Spirit's coming, and being sent by our Lord from the Father, to testify of him, are personal characters, and plainly distinguish him from the Father and the Son; and his title as the Spirit of truth, together with his proceeding from the Father, can agree to none but a Divine person. And that he proceeds from the Son, as well as from the Father, may be fairly argued from his being called the Spirit of Christ, 1 Peter 1:11; and from his being here said to be sent by Christ from the Father, as well as sent by the Father in his name.
"With Our Service"
Jen Jacques, preaching
8:30am in Epworth Lounge
10:30am in the Sanctuary
Anthem: "I Will Serve the Lord All My Days," by Don Besig
Listen to Sermons online
Visit our Website
During Lent: Spiritual Practices
We invite you to take on spiritual practices during Lent. Using the five commitments of our church's membership vows, we are asking you to come up with five promises about how you will seek to live out your faith. We encourage you to form a small group of others to Check In with along the way. Read more here.
How's it Going with your Lenten Promises and Practices?
Pastor Molly would love to hear about the ways you've been living out your faith with your prayers, your presence, your gifts, your service and your witness! If you have a moment to send an email, post on Facebook, or say something the next time you see here, please do!
News From Our Members
"This Friday and Saturday is the Semi-Annual UMW (United Methodist Women) Rummage Sale and I will be performing as an adding machine adder for pricer Shirley as we have worked together for several years now. People bring us bags or boxes of stuff and Shirley looks at it, says the price, 25 cents or more and I add up all the items, as many as eighty or so and provide the total. It's a menial task for me but it moves the buyers along. Around noon We break for a great lunch at Naomi's Cafe in the Epworth Lounge and it all makes it..."
Read more here
This Friday and Saturday is the Semi-Annual UMW (United Methodist Women) Rummage Sale and I will be performing as an adding machine adder for pricer Shirley as we have worked together for several years now. People bring us bags or boxes of stuff and Shirley looks at it, says the price, 25 cents or more and I add up all the items, as many as eighty or so and provide the total. It's a menial task for me but it moves the buyers along. Around noon We break for a great lunch at Naomi's Cafe in the Epworth Lounge and it all makes it worth while. There are scores of women and a few men hard at work doing the many, many other jobs to help things along. If you fail to stop by, you will have missed something unique at our church.
Eureka! Following six months of our South loud speaker non-functioning in the Narhex, the past two weeks it has been doing its job loud and clear. Now, I know this means little to any one else, but those of us who work as Greeters and ushers benefit when the speaker works. It means we can hear Pastor Molly's announcements at the beginning. Previously one had to be at North part of the Narthex to hear anything.
Not this Sunday, but on March 13, our church will have a pot-luck lunch following the 10:30 AM Worship Service. It's been announced several times already, but now it's just a week away. Plan to attend and try to meet someone you don't yet know. If we all did this we could change the name from “Pot-Luck” to something like “Meet a New Friend Luck Luncheon”. I'm sorry that's not catchier, but perhaps you get the idea. Hope to see you there.
Introducing our New Lay Leader:
Audrey Ahrens
We are so pleased to introduce Audrey Ahrens to you as our new Lay Leader (though you probably already know her!) Audrey has been active in our church for most of her life. Currently a Junior at Mira Costa High School, she has been a part of our congregation for as long as she can remember; except for the few years that her family lived in Australia, this has been her church home.
She is active as a volunteer helping teach our Preschool Sunday School, as a dishwasher for Shared Bread, and in a lot of other ways. You know her family, too—she is the eldest child of Chad and Aura Ahrens; her sister Brigitte and brother Brent are active in our congregation, as well.
One of her favorite ways to pray is with the Lord’s Prayer, and she also likes the spiritual reflection practice of examining your day, which she learned from Stephen in our youth program. It’s easy to see the way she is seeking to follow Christ, as she serves others with grace and joy.
While it may seem an unconventional choice to nominate a high school student as Lay Leader, we think she’s very well suited to the job. The most important part of the work of this responsibility is the same as the one all members share: to live a life of faith and to the further the mission of the church in making disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world. The Lay Leader is a primary representative of all church members, encouraging us all in our discipleship and growth. Audrey will help represent us in the community, and remind us of the common mission we are called to live.
Audrey joins a fantastic team of church leaders in this congregation. We are especially glad that she will get to serve alongside Nina Dooley, Church Council Chair, and Nancy Colwell, Chair of our Staff-Parish Relations Committee. We trust you will help welcome her into this role, and be ready for the gifts she will bring to the ministry of the church!
Read Columns from our former Lay Leader, Johnna Kosnoff, here!
Coming at Church
Our United Methodist Women's Rummage Sale is This Weekend!
Friday, March 4: 9am-4pm
Saturday, March 5: 9am - 2pm
Saturday Special: $5 per bag and new extended hours!
Opportunities to help:
After-sale pack up/clean up Saturday, March 5 at 2pm
BAKED GOOD donations for Naomi's Cafe may be delivered to church on Friday(3/4) by 9am
Children's Choir to Sing on Palm Sunday
At 10am on March 20, we will celebrate Palm Sunday with a special donkey-led palm procession in the sanctuary. There, after a short lesson with Pastor Molly, the children will sing a special Palm Sunday song.
If you have children age 3-5th grade, we hope they will join the choir! There are two rehearsals: March 6 & 13, from 11:40am-noon, in the Choir Room!
Parents Night Out: This Spring!
Families are invited to join us for Parents' Night out: March 18, April 23 May 20
RSVP to children@beachfaith.com asap to make sure there's a spot for your family!
Sponsored by Children and Family Ministries.
Changes: Children & Family Ministries
We are looking for a new Director of Children and Family Ministries--we encourage you to check out our job posting, and pass it along to people you know of who might apply!
Thank you to the many people who have stepped up as volunteers with our Sunday School! We will have a volunteer meeting this Sunday, March 6 at 9:30am in Epworth Lounge. New volunteers are welcome. Questions? Contact Adriana
Support our Children's Easter Egg Hunt by filling some eggs for them. Empty eggs will be available to pick up starting this Sunday, February 28--please take a bag and fill them with small treats (stickers, etc) or candy (please, no nuts or chocolate). Bring them to church by March 20!
You are invited to make a donation to purchase an Easter lily in honor or memory of someone. The donation forms will be available at church starting this Sunday, February 28.
Palm Sunday: Procession at 10am
Join us for worship at 8:30 & 10:30, plus a special palm procession--with donkey!--at10am. The children will sing, too. After worship, stay for tacos (to raise money for the Baja mission trip) and special activities.
Good Friday worship at 7:30pm
Share in a moving worship experience, as we meditate on the 7 last words of Christ. Featuring our Choir, singing Dale Wood's "Service of Darkness," plus candlelight, prayer and more.
Celebrate Easter with Us!
Worship at 8:30 & 10:30am, plus an Easter Egg Hunt at 10am on the lawn! Or join us at 6:30am for a Sunrise Service on Torrance Beach. Our 10:30 service includes a brass ensemble and more!
Potluck Lunches this Spring!
We invite you to join your church family for a potluck after 10:30 worship on the several Sundays this spring: March 13, April 3, May 1 & June 5. Bring a dish to share - enjoy the fellowship!
Book Club: Our next book is "I Am Malala: the Girl Who Stood Up for Education and Was Shot by the Taliban."Author Malala Yousafzai was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for her act of defiance. Join us March 10 at 7pm in May Day Parlor. More info online; email Ann or Laura.
Vacation Bible School 2016: August 1-5
We hope you can join us for VBS, for ages 3-8th grade! We'll be looking for young "surfers" to attend, and volunteers of all ages.
Baja Trip 2016: July 16-23
Youth and others from the church can sign up now to be a part of Baja Mission 2016, as we return to Mexico for another week this summer.
Now is the time to think about whether you can join us this summer--the trip will be July 16-23, and is open to people of all ages.
Visit our website for more information!
Announcements
Men's Breakfast: Our next breakfast is Monday, March 7, 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 in their 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!
Prayer Quilt Ministry: Know someone in need of prayer? You can sponsor a free prayer quilt for them. Next Quilt Workshop: Friday, March 18, 10am-noon. This meeting will include a quilt backing/binding tutorial and we will work on various projects. Through April we will meet on the Third Friday of each Month! More information is online.
Meals and More: 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.
This Week: Children, Youth & Adults
Nursery (6 weeks+):
The Nursery is open during both services, for ages 6 weeks to 6 yrs old. Located right off of the parking lot across from Epworth Lounge. Any questions email the Nursery Coordinator: Adriana Hwang
Children's Ministry (age 3 - 3rd Grade & Church R Us: grades 4-5):
10:30am Sunday School: Sunday's Bible Story: "The Prodigal Son" (Luke 15:1-3,11b-32) What was lost is found! And that's grace!
Church R Us (Special Class for Grades 4 & 5):
10:30am: CRU meets above the Nursery! Sunday's Lesson: "The Prodigal Son" (Luke 15:1-3,11b-32) What was lost is found! And that's grace!
Youth Ministry (6th-12th grade):
-Nope! No Middle school Sunday School this week! Most of us are at the Confirmation Retreat.
-Youth Group? Nope! Instead, we are helping at the Rummage Sale for a few hours before we get ice cream (Mar 5th, 11-3pm)! The Rummage Sale is an important fundraiser for lots of stuff, so it's cool to be part of what the UMW is doing.
Adult Sunday School: Bible Study and Discussion in May Day Parlor. Sunday mornings from 9:30-10:15am. Led by Helen Stockwell. (Feb 28 will meet in Epworth Lounge)
Thursday Pastor's Bible Study:
Thursday mornings from 11:00-noon, in May Day Parlor. Led by Pastor Molly.
United Methodist News & Events
Our congregation is a part of the El Tordondo Mission Area, in the West District of theCalifornia-Pacific Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church.
Call to Prayer: Fiji
The California-Pacific Conference is called to prayer for Fiji after a cyclone has killed 29 people and has raised the potential for outbreaks of Zika and Dengue viruses.
Bishop Minerva G. Carcaño has conveyed prayers of encouragement to General Board of Global Ministries Missionary family the Neal's (Wes, Jerusha, Mercy and Josiah), of which Rev. Wesley Neal is a member of the California-Pacific Conference, who have been serving in Fiji since 2014.
Just recently, they sent an update on the on-the-ground conditions. Read the letter here.
General Conference 2016
The United Methodist Church’s top legislative body will meet in Portland, Oregon on May 10-20, 2016.
General Conference is the top policy-making body of The United Methodist Church which meets once every four years. The conference can revise church law, as well as adopt resolutions on current moral, social, public policy and economic issues. It also approves plans and budgets for church-wide programs.Read more.
Pastor Molly will attend as a Reserve Delegate for our Annual Conference.
We invite you to join with others in praying for the church before and during this event.
First United Methodist Church of Redondo Beach
243 South Broadway
Redondo Beach, California 90277, United Stares
310-372-8445 main
310-372-5696 fax
Email
Website
Ongoing Ministries
Free Meal on Wednesday Nights
Offering food and friendship to those in need, every Wednesday night since 1992. More info here.
Thanks for All the Desserts for Shared Bread!
Our thanks to everyone who has pitched in to help provide desserts for Shared Bread, after we lost our regular donor. Your response has been really amazing: not only have we had plenty each week, but our freezer's full, too!
So, you can take a break from the baking for now. We'll ask for help again, soon!
Choir & Our Music Ministry
Join our choir and lend your voice to help us worship God together. Choir rehearses most Wednesday nights, from 7:30-9pm. We are always looking for instrumentalists and musical guests, too. Contact Jim Raycroft for more info.
Corazon "Super Build"
Saturday, April 16: A Corazon house build, involving several churches and volunteer groups working to make a difference in the lives of many. We hope you will consider participating in this outreach opportunity. Email George or Peggy Mercer for more info.
Tell Us About Yourself...
Please take a moment to tell us about your skills and interests through our online questionnaire.
Do You Know Pro Tools or Logic
The Music Department is looking for someone who knows ProTools, Logic, or comparable program for recording and mixing worship service audio.
Contact Jim Raycroft.
We have many spots to fill for liturgists on Sunday mornings. The following link will take you the sign up. Please check it out.
Sunday Worship Liturgist Sign Up
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. Thanks for your consideration.
Connect with us
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First United Methodist Church
243 South Broadway
Redondo Beach, California 90277, United States
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Verse 2
[2] Every branch in me that beareth not fruit he taketh away: and every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit.
Every one that beareth fruit, he purifieth — by obeying the truth, 1 Peter 1:22; and by inward or outward sufferings, Hebrews 12:10,11. So purity and fruitfulness help each other.
That it may bear more fruit — For this is one of the noblest rewards God can bestow on former acts of obedience, to make us yet more holy, and fit for farther and more eminent service.
Verse 3
[3] Now ye are clean through the word which I have spoken unto you.
Ye are clean — All of you, to whom I now speak, are purged from the guilt and power of sin; by the word - Which, applied by the Spirit, is the grand instrument of purifying the soul.
Verse 11
[11] These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full.
That my joy might remain in you — The same joy which I feel in loving the Father, and keeping his commandments.
Verse 12
[12] This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you.
Your joy will be full, if ye so love one another.
Verse 13
[13] Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.
Greater love — To his friends. He here speaks of them only.
Verse 14
[14] Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you.
Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you — On this condition, not otherwise. A thunderbolt for Antinomianism! Who then dares assert that God's love does not at all depend on man's works?
Verse 15
[15] Henceforth I call you not servants; for the servant knoweth not what his lord doeth: but I have called you friends; for all things that I have heard of my Father I have made known unto you.
All things — Which might be of service to you.
Verse 16
[16] Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain: that whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in my name, he may give it you.
Ye — My apostles, have not chosen me, but I have chosen you - As clearly appears from the sacred history: and appointed you, that ye may go and bear fruit - I have chosen and appointed you for this end, that ye may go and convert sinners: and that your fruit may remain - That the fruit of your labours may remain to the end of the world; yea, to eternity; that whatsoever ye shall ask - The consequence of your going and bearing fruit will be, that all your prayers will he heard.
Verse 19
[19] If ye were of the world, the world would love his own: but because ye are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hateth you.
Because ye are not of the world, therefore the world hateth you — Because your maxims, tempers, actions, are quite opposite to theirs. For the very same reason must the world in all ages hate those who are not of the world.
Verse 20
[20] Remember the word that I said unto you, The servant is not greater than his lord. If they have persecuted me, they will also persecute you; if they have kept my saying, they will keep yours also.
John 13:16; Matthew 10:24; Luke 6:40.
Verse 21
[21] But all these things will they do unto you for my name's sake, because they know not him that sent me.
All these things will they do to you, because they know not him that sent me — And in all ages and nations they who know not God will, for this cause, hate and persecute those that do.
Verse 22
[22] If I had not come and spoken unto them, they had not had sin: but now they have no cloke for their sin.
They had not had sin — Not in this respect.
Verse 23
[23] He that hateth me hateth my Father also.
He that hateth me — As every unbeliever doth, For as the love of God is inseparable from faith, so is the hatred of God from unbelief.
Verse 25
[25] But this cometh to pass, that the word might be fulfilled that is written in their law, They hated me without a cause.
Psalms 69:4.
Verse 26
[26] But when the Comforter is come, whom I will send unto you from the Father, even the Spirit of truth, which proceedeth from the Father, he shall testify of me:
When the Comforter is come, whom I will send from the Father, the Spirit of truth, who proceedeth from the Father, he shall testify of me — The Spirit's coming, and being sent by our Lord from the Father, to testify of him, are personal characters, and plainly distinguish him from the Father and the Son; and his title as the Spirit of truth, together with his proceeding from the Father, can agree to none but a Divine person. And that he proceeds from the Son, as well as from the Father, may be fairly argued from his being called the Spirit of Christ, 1 Peter 1:11; and from his being here said to be sent by Christ from the Father, as well as sent by the Father in his name.
"With Our Service"
Jen Jacques, preaching
8:30am in Epworth Lounge
10:30am in the Sanctuary
Anthem: "I Will Serve the Lord All My Days," by Don Besig
Listen to Sermons online
Visit our Website
During Lent: Spiritual Practices
We invite you to take on spiritual practices during Lent. Using the five commitments of our church's membership vows, we are asking you to come up with five promises about how you will seek to live out your faith. We encourage you to form a small group of others to Check In with along the way. Read more here.
How's it Going with your Lenten Promises and Practices?
Pastor Molly would love to hear about the ways you've been living out your faith with your prayers, your presence, your gifts, your service and your witness! If you have a moment to send an email, post on Facebook, or say something the next time you see here, please do!
News From Our Members
"This Friday and Saturday is the Semi-Annual UMW (United Methodist Women) Rummage Sale and I will be performing as an adding machine adder for pricer Shirley as we have worked together for several years now. People bring us bags or boxes of stuff and Shirley looks at it, says the price, 25 cents or more and I add up all the items, as many as eighty or so and provide the total. It's a menial task for me but it moves the buyers along. Around noon We break for a great lunch at Naomi's Cafe in the Epworth Lounge and it all makes it..."
Read more here
This Friday and Saturday is the Semi-Annual UMW (United Methodist Women) Rummage Sale and I will be performing as an adding machine adder for pricer Shirley as we have worked together for several years now. People bring us bags or boxes of stuff and Shirley looks at it, says the price, 25 cents or more and I add up all the items, as many as eighty or so and provide the total. It's a menial task for me but it moves the buyers along. Around noon We break for a great lunch at Naomi's Cafe in the Epworth Lounge and it all makes it worth while. There are scores of women and a few men hard at work doing the many, many other jobs to help things along. If you fail to stop by, you will have missed something unique at our church.
Eureka! Following six months of our South loud speaker non-functioning in the Narhex, the past two weeks it has been doing its job loud and clear. Now, I know this means little to any one else, but those of us who work as Greeters and ushers benefit when the speaker works. It means we can hear Pastor Molly's announcements at the beginning. Previously one had to be at North part of the Narthex to hear anything.
Not this Sunday, but on March 13, our church will have a pot-luck lunch following the 10:30 AM Worship Service. It's been announced several times already, but now it's just a week away. Plan to attend and try to meet someone you don't yet know. If we all did this we could change the name from “Pot-Luck” to something like “Meet a New Friend Luck Luncheon”. I'm sorry that's not catchier, but perhaps you get the idea. Hope to see you there.
Introducing our New Lay Leader:
Audrey Ahrens
We are so pleased to introduce Audrey Ahrens to you as our new Lay Leader (though you probably already know her!) Audrey has been active in our church for most of her life. Currently a Junior at Mira Costa High School, she has been a part of our congregation for as long as she can remember; except for the few years that her family lived in Australia, this has been her church home.
She is active as a volunteer helping teach our Preschool Sunday School, as a dishwasher for Shared Bread, and in a lot of other ways. You know her family, too—she is the eldest child of Chad and Aura Ahrens; her sister Brigitte and brother Brent are active in our congregation, as well.
One of her favorite ways to pray is with the Lord’s Prayer, and she also likes the spiritual reflection practice of examining your day, which she learned from Stephen in our youth program. It’s easy to see the way she is seeking to follow Christ, as she serves others with grace and joy.
While it may seem an unconventional choice to nominate a high school student as Lay Leader, we think she’s very well suited to the job. The most important part of the work of this responsibility is the same as the one all members share: to live a life of faith and to the further the mission of the church in making disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world. The Lay Leader is a primary representative of all church members, encouraging us all in our discipleship and growth. Audrey will help represent us in the community, and remind us of the common mission we are called to live.
Audrey joins a fantastic team of church leaders in this congregation. We are especially glad that she will get to serve alongside Nina Dooley, Church Council Chair, and Nancy Colwell, Chair of our Staff-Parish Relations Committee. We trust you will help welcome her into this role, and be ready for the gifts she will bring to the ministry of the church!
Read Columns from our former Lay Leader, Johnna Kosnoff, here!
Coming at Church
Our United Methodist Women's Rummage Sale is This Weekend!
Friday, March 4: 9am-4pm
Saturday, March 5: 9am - 2pm
Saturday Special: $5 per bag and new extended hours!
Opportunities to help:
After-sale pack up/clean up Saturday, March 5 at 2pm
BAKED GOOD donations for Naomi's Cafe may be delivered to church on Friday(3/4) by 9am
Children's Choir to Sing on Palm Sunday
At 10am on March 20, we will celebrate Palm Sunday with a special donkey-led palm procession in the sanctuary. There, after a short lesson with Pastor Molly, the children will sing a special Palm Sunday song.
If you have children age 3-5th grade, we hope they will join the choir! There are two rehearsals: March 6 & 13, from 11:40am-noon, in the Choir Room!
Parents Night Out: This Spring!
Families are invited to join us for Parents' Night out: March 18, April 23 May 20
RSVP to children@beachfaith.com asap to make sure there's a spot for your family!
Sponsored by Children and Family Ministries.
Changes: Children & Family Ministries
We are looking for a new Director of Children and Family Ministries--we encourage you to check out our job posting, and pass it along to people you know of who might apply!
Thank you to the many people who have stepped up as volunteers with our Sunday School! We will have a volunteer meeting this Sunday, March 6 at 9:30am in Epworth Lounge. New volunteers are welcome. Questions? Contact Adriana
Support our Children's Easter Egg Hunt by filling some eggs for them. Empty eggs will be available to pick up starting this Sunday, February 28--please take a bag and fill them with small treats (stickers, etc) or candy (please, no nuts or chocolate). Bring them to church by March 20!
You are invited to make a donation to purchase an Easter lily in honor or memory of someone. The donation forms will be available at church starting this Sunday, February 28.
Palm Sunday: Procession at 10am
Join us for worship at 8:30 & 10:30, plus a special palm procession--with donkey!--at10am. The children will sing, too. After worship, stay for tacos (to raise money for the Baja mission trip) and special activities.
Good Friday worship at 7:30pm
Share in a moving worship experience, as we meditate on the 7 last words of Christ. Featuring our Choir, singing Dale Wood's "Service of Darkness," plus candlelight, prayer and more.
Celebrate Easter with Us!
Worship at 8:30 & 10:30am, plus an Easter Egg Hunt at 10am on the lawn! Or join us at 6:30am for a Sunrise Service on Torrance Beach. Our 10:30 service includes a brass ensemble and more!
Potluck Lunches this Spring!
We invite you to join your church family for a potluck after 10:30 worship on the several Sundays this spring: March 13, April 3, May 1 & June 5. Bring a dish to share - enjoy the fellowship!
Book Club: Our next book is "I Am Malala: the Girl Who Stood Up for Education and Was Shot by the Taliban."Author Malala Yousafzai was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for her act of defiance. Join us March 10 at 7pm in May Day Parlor. More info online; email Ann or Laura.
Vacation Bible School 2016: August 1-5
We hope you can join us for VBS, for ages 3-8th grade! We'll be looking for young "surfers" to attend, and volunteers of all ages.
Baja Trip 2016: July 16-23
Youth and others from the church can sign up now to be a part of Baja Mission 2016, as we return to Mexico for another week this summer.
Now is the time to think about whether you can join us this summer--the trip will be July 16-23, and is open to people of all ages.
Visit our website for more information!
Announcements
Men's Breakfast: Our next breakfast is Monday, March 7, 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 in their 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!
Prayer Quilt Ministry: Know someone in need of prayer? You can sponsor a free prayer quilt for them. Next Quilt Workshop: Friday, March 18, 10am-noon. This meeting will include a quilt backing/binding tutorial and we will work on various projects. Through April we will meet on the Third Friday of each Month! More information is online.
Meals and More: 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.
This Week: Children, Youth & Adults
Nursery (6 weeks+):
The Nursery is open during both services, for ages 6 weeks to 6 yrs old. Located right off of the parking lot across from Epworth Lounge. Any questions email the Nursery Coordinator: Adriana Hwang
Children's Ministry (age 3 - 3rd Grade & Church R Us: grades 4-5):
10:30am Sunday School: Sunday's Bible Story: "The Prodigal Son" (Luke 15:1-3,11b-32) What was lost is found! And that's grace!
Church R Us (Special Class for Grades 4 & 5):
10:30am: CRU meets above the Nursery! Sunday's Lesson: "The Prodigal Son" (Luke 15:1-3,11b-32) What was lost is found! And that's grace!
Youth Ministry (6th-12th grade):
-Nope! No Middle school Sunday School this week! Most of us are at the Confirmation Retreat.
-Youth Group? Nope! Instead, we are helping at the Rummage Sale for a few hours before we get ice cream (Mar 5th, 11-3pm)! The Rummage Sale is an important fundraiser for lots of stuff, so it's cool to be part of what the UMW is doing.
Adult Sunday School: Bible Study and Discussion in May Day Parlor. Sunday mornings from 9:30-10:15am. Led by Helen Stockwell. (Feb 28 will meet in Epworth Lounge)
Thursday Pastor's Bible Study:
Thursday mornings from 11:00-noon, in May Day Parlor. Led by Pastor Molly.
United Methodist News & Events
Our congregation is a part of the El Tordondo Mission Area, in the West District of theCalifornia-Pacific Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church.
Call to Prayer: Fiji
The California-Pacific Conference is called to prayer for Fiji after a cyclone has killed 29 people and has raised the potential for outbreaks of Zika and Dengue viruses.
Bishop Minerva G. Carcaño has conveyed prayers of encouragement to General Board of Global Ministries Missionary family the Neal's (Wes, Jerusha, Mercy and Josiah), of which Rev. Wesley Neal is a member of the California-Pacific Conference, who have been serving in Fiji since 2014.
Just recently, they sent an update on the on-the-ground conditions. Read the letter here.
General Conference 2016
The United Methodist Church’s top legislative body will meet in Portland, Oregon on May 10-20, 2016.
General Conference is the top policy-making body of The United Methodist Church which meets once every four years. The conference can revise church law, as well as adopt resolutions on current moral, social, public policy and economic issues. It also approves plans and budgets for church-wide programs.Read more.
Pastor Molly will attend as a Reserve Delegate for our Annual Conference.
We invite you to join with others in praying for the church before and during this event.
First United Methodist Church of Redondo Beach
243 South Broadway
Redondo Beach, California 90277, United Stares
310-372-8445 main
310-372-5696 fax
Website
Ongoing Ministries
Free Meal on Wednesday Nights
Offering food and friendship to those in need, every Wednesday night since 1992. More info here.
Thanks for All the Desserts for Shared Bread!
Our thanks to everyone who has pitched in to help provide desserts for Shared Bread, after we lost our regular donor. Your response has been really amazing: not only have we had plenty each week, but our freezer's full, too!
So, you can take a break from the baking for now. We'll ask for help again, soon!
Choir & Our Music Ministry
Join our choir and lend your voice to help us worship God together. Choir rehearses most Wednesday nights, from 7:30-9pm. We are always looking for instrumentalists and musical guests, too. Contact Jim Raycroft for more info.
Corazon "Super Build"
Saturday, April 16: A Corazon house build, involving several churches and volunteer groups working to make a difference in the lives of many. We hope you will consider participating in this outreach opportunity. Email George or Peggy Mercer for more info.
Tell Us About Yourself...
Please take a moment to tell us about your skills and interests through our online questionnaire.
Do You Know Pro Tools or Logic
The Music Department is looking for someone who knows ProTools, Logic, or comparable program for recording and mixing worship service audio.
Contact Jim Raycroft.
We have many spots to fill for liturgists on Sunday mornings. The following link will take you the sign up. Please check it out.
Sunday Worship Liturgist Sign Up
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. Thanks for your consideration.
Connect with us
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First United Methodist Church
243 South Broadway
Redondo Beach, California 90277, United States
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