From Pastor Molly: The Big Picture
My husband woke me up early this morning so we could enjoy a glimpse of the super blue blood moon. From our driveway, we could see the red and shadow of the eclipsed full moon, low in the sky. The strangeness and beauty were a welcome adjustment in my perspective.
This view of the moon revealed what I knew intellectually about my place on our fragile planet, in orbit of our sun. It reminded me of the majesty and improbability of the life we share here on earth.
This sense of precious precariousness isn't new to us humans: the prophet Isaiah compared our fragile, short lives to grasshoppers. Even the powerful people of the earth are as nothing, in comparison to God. If the movements of our galaxy are enough to remind me of my humble place in it, how much more so do they also give me the hope and assurance that come from knowing the God of all creation--of all the galaxies and space beyond our sight?
In the midst of the immensity, we claim a God who calls us by name. And we notice the grasshoppers, with their wondrous, intricate beauty.
May the vastness of this universe remind you that there is something bigger than we comprehend, whose movements may defy our understanding. And may the beauty of tiny things remind you that God knows and loves you in all your particular uniquenesses.
grace and peace,
Pastor Molly
In Worship This Week
Sunday, February 4:
Soup-er Bowl Sunday
"Keeping Perspective"
Rev. Molly Vetter, preaching
Mark 1:29-39 & Isaiah 40:21-31
Mark 1:29 They left the synagogue and went with Ya‘akov and Yochanan to the home of Shim‘on and Andrew. 30 Shim‘on’s mother-in-law was lying sick with a fever, and they told Yeshua about her. 31 He came, took her by the hand and lifted her onto her feet. The fever left her, and she began helping them.
32 That evening after sundown, they brought to Yeshua all who were ill or held in the power of demons, 33 and the whole town came crowding around the door. 34 He healed many who were ill with various diseases and expelled many demons, but he did not allow the demons to speak, because they knew who he was.35 Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Yeshua got up, left, went away to a lonely spot and stayed there praying. 36 But Shim‘on and those with him went after him; 37 and when they found him, they said, “Everybody is looking for you.” 38 He answered, “Let’s go somewhere else — to the other villages around here. I have to proclaim the message there too — in fact this is why I came out.” 39 So he traveled all through the Galil, preaching in their synagogues and expelling demons. & Isaiah 40:21 Don’t you know? Don’t you hear?
Haven’t you been told from the start?
Don’t you understand how the earth is set up?
22 He who sits above the circle of the earth —
for whom its inhabitants appear like grasshoppers —
stretches out the heavens like a curtain,
spreads them out like a tent to live in.
23 He reduces princes to nothing,
the rulers of the earth to emptiness.
24 Scarcely are they planted, scarcely sown,
scarcely their stem taken root in the ground,
when he blows on them, they dry up,
and the whirlwind carries them off like straw.
25 “With whom, then, will you compare me?
With whom am I equal?” asks the Holy One.
26 Turn your eyes to the heavens!
See who created these?
He brings out the army of them in sequence,
summoning each by name.
Through his great might and his massive strength,
not one of them is missing.
27 Why do you complain, Ya‘akov;
why do you say, Isra’el,
“My way is hidden from Adonai,
my rights are ignored by my God”?
28 Haven’t you known, haven’t you heard
that the everlasting God, Adonai,
the Creator of the ends of the earth,
does not grow tired or weary?
His understanding cannot be fathomed.
29 He invigorates the exhausted,
he gives strength to the powerless.
30 Young men may grow tired and weary,
even the fittest may stumble and fall;
31 but those who hope in Adonai will renew their strength,
they will soar aloft as with eagles’ wings;
when they are running they won’t grow weary,
when they are walking they won’t get tired.
John Wesley’s Explanatory NotesMark 1:29-39
Verse 29
[29] And forthwith, when they were come out of the synagogue, they entered into the house of Simon and Andrew, with James and John.
Matthew 8:14; Luke 4:38.
Verse 32
[32] And at even, when the sun did set, they brought unto him all that were diseased, and them that were possessed with devils.
When the sun was set — And, consequently, the Sabbath was ended, which they reckoned from sunset to sunset.
Verse 33
[33] And all the city was gathered together at the door.
And the whole city was gathered together at the door — O what a fair prospect was here! Who could then have imagined that all these blossoms would die away without fruit?
Verse 34
[34] And he healed many that were sick of divers diseases, and cast out many devils; and suffered not the devils to speak, because they knew him.
He suffered not the devils to say that they knew him — That is, according to Dr. Mead's hypothesis, (that the Scriptural demoniacs were only diseased persons,) He suffered not the diseases to say that they knew him!
Verse 35
[35] And in the morning, rising up a great while before day, he went out, and departed into a solitary place, and there prayed.
Rising a great while before day — So did he labour for us, both day and night. Luke 4:42. & Isaiah 40:21-31
Verse 21
[21] Have ye not known? have ye not heard? hath it not been told you from the beginning? have ye not understood from the foundations of the earth?
Known — God to be the only true God, the maker and governor of the world.
Verse 22
[22] It is he that sitteth upon the circle of the earth, and the inhabitants thereof are as grasshoppers; that stretcheth out the heavens as a curtain, and spreadeth them out as a tent to dwell in:
Sitteth — Far above this round earth, even in the highest heavens; from whence he looketh down upon the earth, where men appear to him like grasshoppers. As here we have the circle of the earth, so elsewhere we read of the circle of heaven, Job 22:14, and of the circle of the deep, or sea, Proverbs 8:27, because the form of the heaven, and earth and sea is circular.
Spreadeth — For the benefit of the earth and of mankind, that all parts might partake of its comfortable influences.
Verse 24
[24] Yea, they shall not be planted; yea, they shall not be sown: yea, their stock shall not take root in the earth: and he shall also blow upon them, and they shall wither, and the whirlwind shall take them away as stubble.
Sown — They shall take no root, for planting and sowing are in order to taking root. They shall not continue and flourish, as they have vainly imagined, but shall be rooted up and perish.
Verse 26
[26] Lift up your eyes on high, and behold who hath created these things, that bringeth out their host by number: he calleth them all by names by the greatness of his might, for that he is strong in power; not one faileth.
Bringeth — That at first brought them out of nothing, and from day to day brings them forth, making them to rise and set in their appointed times.
Faileth — Either to appear when he calls them; or to do the work to which he sends them.
Verse 27
[27] Why sayest thou, O Jacob, and speakest, O Israel, My way is hid from the LORD, and my judgment is passed over from my God?
What — Why dost thou give way to such jealousies concerning thy God, of whose infinite power and wisdom, and goodness, there are such evident demonstrations.
Is hid — He takes no notice of my prayers and tears, and sufferings, but suffers mine enemies to abuse me at their pleasure. This complaint is uttered in the name of the people, being prophetically supposed to be in captivity.
Judgment — My cause. God has neglected to plead my cause, and to give judgment for me against mine enemies.
Verse 30
[30] Even the youths shall faint and be weary, and the young men shall utterly fall:
The youths — The youngest and strongest men, left to themselves.
Verse 31
[31] But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.
Wait — That rely upon him.
Renew — Shall grow stronger and stronger.
32 That evening after sundown, they brought to Yeshua all who were ill or held in the power of demons, 33 and the whole town came crowding around the door. 34 He healed many who were ill with various diseases and expelled many demons, but he did not allow the demons to speak, because they knew who he was.35 Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Yeshua got up, left, went away to a lonely spot and stayed there praying. 36 But Shim‘on and those with him went after him; 37 and when they found him, they said, “Everybody is looking for you.” 38 He answered, “Let’s go somewhere else — to the other villages around here. I have to proclaim the message there too — in fact this is why I came out.” 39 So he traveled all through the Galil, preaching in their synagogues and expelling demons. & Isaiah 40:21 Don’t you know? Don’t you hear?
Haven’t you been told from the start?
Don’t you understand how the earth is set up?
22 He who sits above the circle of the earth —
for whom its inhabitants appear like grasshoppers —
stretches out the heavens like a curtain,
spreads them out like a tent to live in.
23 He reduces princes to nothing,
the rulers of the earth to emptiness.
24 Scarcely are they planted, scarcely sown,
scarcely their stem taken root in the ground,
when he blows on them, they dry up,
and the whirlwind carries them off like straw.
25 “With whom, then, will you compare me?
With whom am I equal?” asks the Holy One.
26 Turn your eyes to the heavens!
See who created these?
He brings out the army of them in sequence,
summoning each by name.
Through his great might and his massive strength,
not one of them is missing.
27 Why do you complain, Ya‘akov;
why do you say, Isra’el,
“My way is hidden from Adonai,
my rights are ignored by my God”?
28 Haven’t you known, haven’t you heard
that the everlasting God, Adonai,
the Creator of the ends of the earth,
does not grow tired or weary?
His understanding cannot be fathomed.
29 He invigorates the exhausted,
he gives strength to the powerless.
30 Young men may grow tired and weary,
even the fittest may stumble and fall;
31 but those who hope in Adonai will renew their strength,
they will soar aloft as with eagles’ wings;
when they are running they won’t grow weary,
when they are walking they won’t get tired.
John Wesley’s Explanatory NotesMark 1:29-39
Verse 29
[29] And forthwith, when they were come out of the synagogue, they entered into the house of Simon and Andrew, with James and John.
Matthew 8:14; Luke 4:38.
Verse 32
[32] And at even, when the sun did set, they brought unto him all that were diseased, and them that were possessed with devils.
When the sun was set — And, consequently, the Sabbath was ended, which they reckoned from sunset to sunset.
Verse 33
[33] And all the city was gathered together at the door.
And the whole city was gathered together at the door — O what a fair prospect was here! Who could then have imagined that all these blossoms would die away without fruit?
Verse 34
[34] And he healed many that were sick of divers diseases, and cast out many devils; and suffered not the devils to speak, because they knew him.
He suffered not the devils to say that they knew him — That is, according to Dr. Mead's hypothesis, (that the Scriptural demoniacs were only diseased persons,) He suffered not the diseases to say that they knew him!
Verse 35
[35] And in the morning, rising up a great while before day, he went out, and departed into a solitary place, and there prayed.
Rising a great while before day — So did he labour for us, both day and night. Luke 4:42. & Isaiah 40:21-31
Verse 21
[21] Have ye not known? have ye not heard? hath it not been told you from the beginning? have ye not understood from the foundations of the earth?
Known — God to be the only true God, the maker and governor of the world.
Verse 22
[22] It is he that sitteth upon the circle of the earth, and the inhabitants thereof are as grasshoppers; that stretcheth out the heavens as a curtain, and spreadeth them out as a tent to dwell in:
Sitteth — Far above this round earth, even in the highest heavens; from whence he looketh down upon the earth, where men appear to him like grasshoppers. As here we have the circle of the earth, so elsewhere we read of the circle of heaven, Job 22:14, and of the circle of the deep, or sea, Proverbs 8:27, because the form of the heaven, and earth and sea is circular.
Spreadeth — For the benefit of the earth and of mankind, that all parts might partake of its comfortable influences.
Verse 24
[24] Yea, they shall not be planted; yea, they shall not be sown: yea, their stock shall not take root in the earth: and he shall also blow upon them, and they shall wither, and the whirlwind shall take them away as stubble.
Sown — They shall take no root, for planting and sowing are in order to taking root. They shall not continue and flourish, as they have vainly imagined, but shall be rooted up and perish.
Verse 26
[26] Lift up your eyes on high, and behold who hath created these things, that bringeth out their host by number: he calleth them all by names by the greatness of his might, for that he is strong in power; not one faileth.
Bringeth — That at first brought them out of nothing, and from day to day brings them forth, making them to rise and set in their appointed times.
Faileth — Either to appear when he calls them; or to do the work to which he sends them.
Verse 27
[27] Why sayest thou, O Jacob, and speakest, O Israel, My way is hid from the LORD, and my judgment is passed over from my God?
What — Why dost thou give way to such jealousies concerning thy God, of whose infinite power and wisdom, and goodness, there are such evident demonstrations.
Is hid — He takes no notice of my prayers and tears, and sufferings, but suffers mine enemies to abuse me at their pleasure. This complaint is uttered in the name of the people, being prophetically supposed to be in captivity.
Judgment — My cause. God has neglected to plead my cause, and to give judgment for me against mine enemies.
Verse 30
[30] Even the youths shall faint and be weary, and the young men shall utterly fall:
The youths — The youngest and strongest men, left to themselves.
Verse 31
[31] But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.
Wait — That rely upon him.
Renew — Shall grow stronger and stronger.
8:30am in Epworth Lounge
10:30am in the Sanctuary
Special Music: “Lift Up Your Heads” by Handel, sung by
the Chancel Choir
“Lift Up Your Heads”
Lift up your heads, you gates of brass,
You gates of iron, yield.
And let the King of glory pass;
The cross is in the field.
Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia, alleluia,
Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia, alleluia.
You armies of the living God,
Stand in your Captain’s might.
Go where no hallow’d feet have trod.
Arise, My warrior bride.
O fear not, faint not, balt not now.
Don’t quit: like men, be strong.
To Christ shall every nation bow
and sing with you this song.
Uplifted are the gates of brass,
The bars of iron yield.
Behold the King of glory pass:
The cross has won the field.
Listen to Sermons online
Please note: This Sunday February 4, the City of Redondo Beach will be hosting the 40th Annual Super Bowl 10K race near the Pier/Harbor areas. It is expected there will be approximately 8000 participants. Traffic delays and parking concerns are expected in the areas west of Pacific Coast Hwy, and south of Herondo Street extending to the Riviera Village, between the hours of 6 AM and 11 AM.
Visit our Website
News From Our Members
Taking a Break this week...
Click here for more of the Lay Looker
Coming at Church
Ash Wednesday is February 14
We have two special opportunities for you on Ash Wednesday, to share in the traditional beginning of the season of Lent:
Prayers and Ashes in the Sanctuary from 3:30-5:30pm
Stop by the sanctuary to receive the imposition of ashes and share in prayer. Several prayer stations will be available, for people of all ages.
Community Worship at Faith UMC at 7:30pm
Join with other area congregations in an Ash Wednesday worship service, with prayer, ashes, singing and sermon. Members of our choir are invited to join the mass choir, and all are welcome at the service. Faith UMC is at 2115 W 182nd St.
Read more about "Grow" on our website.
Pick up your free tools for growth at church starting this Sunday!
Grow with Us during Lent
We are excited to have free toolsto offer you, to help your faith grow this Spring. Starting on Sunday, you can pick up a packet with materials to use at home: a devotionalbased on scripture and poetry, and prayer coloring pages that use the Psalms.
Beginning next week, we hope you will sign up to join a six-week Grow Group. These small groups will give you a chance to connect with others as you go deeper in faith, connecting life and the scriptures. Groups meet at different times of day and of the week.
Soup-er Bowl Sunday is Feb 4.
Support Shared Bread with Donations!
Shared Bread needs:
-Gift Cards(any size) to Smart & Final or Costco
-New Adult-size white socks
We are so grateful to generous donors who have filled our shelves with food--the pantry is full! What we need now are new socks to give guests, and gift cards to use for extra supplies we need from time to time.
In support of your favorite team, or just because you care, bring socks and gift cards for our Soup-er Bowl Sunday!
Bring your donations to worship and place them in the big soup pots!
Scout Sunday Postponed Until April
We invite all Boy and Girl Scouts in the congregation to wear their uniforms (or accessories that show their involvement in scouting). During worship, we will honor and pray for the young people who are involved in these programs.
We encourage you to invite friends from your Troops, too, so they can be with us for this special day. We will be pleased to welcome some of the Boy Scouts who meet on our campus, as well.
Women's Retreat: March 9-11
We still have two spots open. The cost is $225.00
Our topics will include:
· Why friendship with God matters
· Loving ourselves—isn't that being selfish? (Nope)
· How loving others is loving God
Reserve your spot TODAY!
CLICK HERE for more info.
NEW LOCATION!!
Old Mission San Luis Rey Retreat Center in Oceanside
RSVP now for Parent's Night out, February 16th!
Need a kid free evening? Want to grab sushi with your friends?
Bring your children to Parents Night out!
Drop off your children at church for three hours of programming, starting at 5pm.
The cost is $20.00 for the first child ($10 for the 2nd, $5 for 3rd+) and includes dinner.
Enjoy an evening out while your kids play games, make crafts, and enjoy fellowship!
It's a great night for all!
We request all spots be reserved by the Wednesday prior to the event.
Email Children's Ministry to save a spot!
Potluck Lunch on February 11!
Please join us for a Mardis Gras-themed potluck lunch on Sunday, February 11, after the 10:30am worship service. Bring a dish to share, and enjoy the good food everyone brings. (You can bring your own washable dishes from home, or use the disposable ones we have available.)
Did You Know: View Your Church Giving Record
We just mailed records of your giving to those who have donated to the church in 2017, which can be used for your tax records. Please let us know if you don't receive yours. Also, anytime, you can log onto OnRealm, our cloud-based church directory, to view or print a record of your giving to the church. You can also set up or manage secure, electronic giving to the church. Arrange a one-time gift or a recurring donation. Plus, you can access contact information for other church members, to better stay in touch with the community! If you don't already have a login, contact the office for an invitation to join.
The last of the poinsettias are now available to take home. We are so grateful to everyone who purchased plants to beautify the sanctuary for the Christmas season. If you would like to take one (or two+) home, they will be outside Fellowship Hall for the next two Sundays.
Attention 4th-8th graders!
Acolytes are needed for 10:30 worship each week. If you've been trained, you can sign up via our "sign up genius" (click here!)
If you are interested in being trained, email children's ministries!
Summer 2018: Mark Your Calendars!
Vacation Bible School:
(age 3-8th grade) August 13-17
BeachFaith Kids Arts Camp:
(K-5th grade) July 30-August 3
Baja Mission Trip:
with Inalienable (youth & adults) July 7-14
Summer Camps:
at Lazy W Ranch & other sites
UMW Honors Carol Pearson & Carol Walter
Our United Methodist Women honored two of our members with special recognition last Sunday. Carol Pearson was presented the 2018 Candle of Commitment, in honor of her great dedication and service in the mission and work of our UMW. Carol Walter was presented the Legacy Pin, a special honor, for the upcoming 150th Anniversary of UMW. Along with the award, our UMW Chapter made a donation to the Legacy Fund of UMW for its global work.
We join our UMW in celebrating and recognizing these two dynamic leaders in our church!
Save The Date for VBS!
Be sure to mark your calendars for
August 13th-17th!!
Believe it or not, VBS 2018 is on it's way and we want YOU to be part of this incredible ministry.
Save the date!
Announcements
Men's Breakfast: Our next breakfast is Monday, February 5, 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.
Spiritual Gifts Class:This three-week class concludes on Monday night, February 5, from 7-8:30pm in Epworth Lounge. Taught by Liz Gyori.
Prayer Quilt Ministry:Join us for our monthly quilting workshop Friday, February 9, 10am - noon in the choir room. We will continue your new year's work at finishing up last year's projects, and there's something for everyone to do to help. Even if you haven't tried quilt-making before, this is a great way to begin. Know someone in need of prayer? Anyone can sponsor a free prayer quilt. The Quilt Request Form is online or in the church office.
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.
Book Club, February 20, 2018 at 7PM: Jody Wilkinson has selected for our February book, “Before We Were Yours,” by Laura Wingate. So, for those of you who like to read ahead, here is your opportunity. Published in June, 2017, the hardcover is available on Amazon. We meet in May Day Parlor. For more information, contact Ann Gallagher.
This Week: Children, Youth & Adults
Nursery (6 weeks+): The Nursery is open during both services, for ages 6 weeks to 5 yrs old. Located right off of the parking lot across from Epworth Lounge. Please know that children of any age are always welcome in worship. Any questions email the Nursery Coordinator: Adriana Hwang
Children's Ministry(age 3 - 3rd Grade):We'll start out upstairs in the Sunday School room, sign in as early at 10:20. We will explore a Bible story, play, and make a craft! Afterward, we'll join our families in worship for Holy Communion.
Church R Us (Grades 4 & 5): Start out in Worship with your family, then head to class with our youth director, Stephen Hale during "Passing of the Peace". You'll head back to church for communion!
Youth Ministry (6th-12th grade):
-Middle School Sunday School? YES!!!!
-Youth Group(2-4pm on Sunday)? Nope! You were going to a Super Bowl party anyway.
Young Adults (19-not very specific):
"Grow Groups" are starting for Lent! There are many to choose from, Young Adults and young families are encouraged to join the Monday night class, but are welcome at any of them. Click here for more info!
Adult Sunday School: Bible Study and Discussion in May Day Parlor. Sunday mornings from 9:30-10:15am. Led by Helen Stockwell .
Thursday Pastor's Bible Study:
We usually meet Thursday mornings from 11:00-noon, in May Day Parlor. All are welcome.
United Methodist News & Events
West District Training Conference: for Current and Emerging Leaders - on Saturday, February 3, 2018 from 8:00 AM - 2:00 PM at Holman UMC in Los Angeles
Our congregation is a part of the El Tordondo Mission Area, in the West District of the California-PacificAnnual Conference of the United Methodist Church.
First United Methodist Church of Redondo Beach
243 S. Broadway
Redondo Beach, California 90277, United States
(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.
SHARED BREAD NEEDS DONATIONS OF:
Men’s jeans waist sizes 32- 38; Men’s new socks, white or grey only- all sizes; Men’s tennis shoes - especially sizes 9.5 to 11.5
Please bring them to church on Sunday, or to the office during the week.
DESSERTS FOR SHARED BREAD
Homemade treats are treasured by our guests – but purchased treats would be wonderful, as well. Please wrap desserts tightly and mark for Shared Bread. Deliver Sunday (when you come for church) through Wednesday to the church kitchen (or the office if kitchen is closed.) Wednesday deliveries
should be here by 4:00pm to help us plan our meal better. THANK YOU!
Michael Joncas (born Jan Michael Joncas) is a priest, liturgical theologian and a composer. He did his Master’s degree in liturgy at Notre Dame and studied at the Pontifical Liturgical Institute in Rome. He was ordained in 1980 and now teaches at the University of St. Thomas (in Minnesota), at Notre Dame and at the St. John’s School of Theology. He is best known for his hymn On Eagle’s Wings, which he wrote in the late 70’s, basing the lyrics on Psalm 91 and Isaiah 40. He recorded it in 1979, and it has become a standard in the liturgical music world (it’s even in our hymnbook). It was performed at the funerals of many of the victims of the 9/11 attack, as well as the funeral of Luciano Pavarotti. He has stated that his preference for the title would be "On Eagle's Wings," indicating that the wings belong to a single eagle as a metaphor for God, but he said he could make an argument for the plural "On Eagles' Wings," since many wings would be needed to lift up the multitude of people in covenant with God...
Thursday, February 1, 2018
Music Director, Jim Raycroft, will
share upcoming worship music
selections and a little bit of history, too.
Jim Raycroft
Thursday, 1 February 2018 by Jim Raycroft
Michael Joncas (born Jan Michael Joncas) is a priest, liturgical theologian and a composer. He did his Master's degree in liturgy at Notre Dame and studied at the Pontifical Liturgical Institute in Rome. He was ordained in 1980 and now teaches at the University of St. Thomas (in Minnesota), at Notre Dame and at the St. John's School of Theology. He is best known for his hymn On Eagle's Wings, which he wrote in the late 70's, basing the lyrics on Psalm 91 and Isaiah 40. He recorded it in 1979, and it has become a standard in the liturgical music world (it's even in our hymnbook). It was performed at the funerals of many of the victims of the 9/11 attack, as well as the funeral of Luciano Pavarotti. He has stated that his preference for the title would be "On Eagle's Wings," indicating that the wings belong to a single eagle as a metaphor for God, but he said he could make an argument for the plural "On Eagles' Wings," since many wings would be needed to lift up the multitude of people in covenant with God.
David Wallace Crowder, who goes by the mononymous stage name Crowder (in the finest tradition of Cher, Madonna, Adele and Prince), was the lead singer in the now defunct David Crowder Band, a contemporary worship band that disbanded in 2012. He has since gone on to a solo career, releasing his first solo studio album in 2014, under the sixsteps/sparrow label, called Neon Steeple. Come As You Are, one of the cuts from that album, peaked at #3 on the US Christian Songs chart and went on to receive a Grammy nomination in 2015 for Best Contemporary Christian Music Performance/Song.
One Thing Remains is a song that was written in 2010 by Brian Johnson, Jeremy Riddle and Christa Black Gifford. It was recorded and released as part of the live album Come Away, which was recorded at the 2010 Jesus Culture Encounter Conference. The Jesus Culture Conference began as part of the youth group of Bethel Church in Redding, California, with the first conference being held in 1999 and attracting 500 attendees. Since then, it has grown into a musical force for worship with a full time staff of dozens and a discography that numbers 33 albums. It recently expanded to Sacramento, where they meet at Folsom High School. One Thing Remains has been covered by numerous artists, including Kristian Stanfill, Israel Houghton and Chris Tomlin.
George Frideric Handel (born Georg Friedrich Händel) is known as an English composer, but he was actually born, raised and trained in Germany. He was born in 1650 in Halle an der Saal, a city just north of Leipzig (famous for its resident composer J.S. Bach) in what was East Germany, and was the son of a coppersmith. Between the age of 7 and 9, he began training with the only teacher he would ever have, Friedrich Wilhelm Zachow, who introduced him to both the traditional music of fugues and counterpoint, and to the newer forms of music, especially the new Italian art form, opera. By age 9, he was composing entire services of music for Zachow's church. After graduating from the University of Halle in 1702, he moved to Hamburg, a free city with an established opera company, where he took a position with the Hamburg opera orchestra (playing violin and harpsichord) and began writing operas in the Italian style (in those days, operatic subjects were always based on Greek mythology). In 1706, he traveled to Italy at the invitation of the Medicis, who were trying to establish Florence as the musical capitol of Italy by attracting the greatest talents in the world. He wrote operas in Florence and sacred music for the clergy in Rome. In 1710, he became Kapellmeister (person in charge of music-making) to Georg, Elector of Hannover. In 1712, he decided to move to London, and in a twist of fate, Georg of Hannover became King George I of England in 1714 (Handel had to appease his old/new boss by writing a bunch of music for him, including the Coronation Anthems, also known as Zadok the Priest, which our choir has sung, and has been performed at every British coronation since). Handel ultimately founded 3 companies to supply the British nobility with Italian opera, including the opera house at Covent Garden. As financial returns from opera began to dwindle, he turned to writing oratorios – they were cheaper to produce since no sets were required and the singers wore their own clothes. Once he began writing oratorios, he never completely returned to opera. His Messiah was written in 3 weeks in a burst of energy and debuted in Dublin in 1741. He died on April 14, 1759, and was buried in Westminster Abbey with full state honors and with 3000 attendees present. This week's anthem, Lift Up Your Heads, is #33 in Part 2 of The Messiah.
Click here to read more Music Notes!
Looking for a Way to Volunteer?
The Welcome Team is looking for volunteers who can help about once a month between the two services and/or immediately after the 10:30 service. Go to our "Want to Help" page to learn more about this awesome ministry, as well as several other current ways you can lend a hand in ministry.
Calling All Gardeners!
Do you have a couple hours once or twice a month to help maintain our beautiful church gardens? Tasks would include pruning, planting, weeding and watering. Whatever you can help with, we'd love to have you join our team! Duties could change seasonally. Sign up through the church office, or by talking with Jody Wilkinson.
Our UMW is back to their regular meeting times.
Circle Meeting Time
Want to know more? Click Here!
United Methodist Women’s Reading Program: There are many titles to choose from with new ones added every year! Books are available in the UMW library located in May Day Parlor. Any one can read the books and our own local UMW unit will get credit! click here for information about the program.
Support missions through recycling!
Bring your plastic bottles, aluminum cans AND CRV glass bottles to church every Sunday. By recycling we can support Corazon, Crop Walk, Habitat for Humanity and some of the United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR) programs: Syrian refugee relief, eradicating hunger, clean water, ending malaria and fighting HIV/AIDS. Please bring your cans and bottles.
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
Campus WiFi network is: First UMC Guests; Password is: openhearts
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.
Hearing Assistance Devices are available on Sunday mornings. Just ask for one at the audio/video booth in the sanctuary.
Connect with us
First United Methodist Church
243 South Broadway
Redondo Beach, California 90277,United States
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10:30am in the Sanctuary
Special Music: “Lift Up Your Heads” by Handel, sung by
the Chancel Choir
“Lift Up Your Heads”
Lift up your heads, you gates of brass,
You gates of iron, yield.
And let the King of glory pass;
The cross is in the field.
Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia, alleluia,
Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia, alleluia.
You armies of the living God,
Stand in your Captain’s might.
Go where no hallow’d feet have trod.
Arise, My warrior bride.
O fear not, faint not, balt not now.
Don’t quit: like men, be strong.
To Christ shall every nation bow
and sing with you this song.
Uplifted are the gates of brass,
The bars of iron yield.
Behold the King of glory pass:
The cross has won the field.
Listen to Sermons online
Please note: This Sunday February 4, the City of Redondo Beach will be hosting the 40th Annual Super Bowl 10K race near the Pier/Harbor areas. It is expected there will be approximately 8000 participants. Traffic delays and parking concerns are expected in the areas west of Pacific Coast Hwy, and south of Herondo Street extending to the Riviera Village, between the hours of 6 AM and 11 AM.
Visit our Website
News From Our Members
Taking a Break this week...
Click here for more of the Lay Looker
Coming at Church
Ash Wednesday is February 14
We have two special opportunities for you on Ash Wednesday, to share in the traditional beginning of the season of Lent:
Prayers and Ashes in the Sanctuary from 3:30-5:30pm
Stop by the sanctuary to receive the imposition of ashes and share in prayer. Several prayer stations will be available, for people of all ages.
Community Worship at Faith UMC at 7:30pm
Join with other area congregations in an Ash Wednesday worship service, with prayer, ashes, singing and sermon. Members of our choir are invited to join the mass choir, and all are welcome at the service. Faith UMC is at 2115 W 182nd St.
Read more about "Grow" on our website.
Pick up your free tools for growth at church starting this Sunday!
Grow with Us during Lent
We are excited to have free toolsto offer you, to help your faith grow this Spring. Starting on Sunday, you can pick up a packet with materials to use at home: a devotionalbased on scripture and poetry, and prayer coloring pages that use the Psalms.
Beginning next week, we hope you will sign up to join a six-week Grow Group. These small groups will give you a chance to connect with others as you go deeper in faith, connecting life and the scriptures. Groups meet at different times of day and of the week.
Soup-er Bowl Sunday is Feb 4.
Support Shared Bread with Donations!
Shared Bread needs:
-Gift Cards(any size) to Smart & Final or Costco
-New Adult-size white socks
We are so grateful to generous donors who have filled our shelves with food--the pantry is full! What we need now are new socks to give guests, and gift cards to use for extra supplies we need from time to time.
In support of your favorite team, or just because you care, bring socks and gift cards for our Soup-er Bowl Sunday!
Bring your donations to worship and place them in the big soup pots!
Scout Sunday Postponed Until April
We invite all Boy and Girl Scouts in the congregation to wear their uniforms (or accessories that show their involvement in scouting). During worship, we will honor and pray for the young people who are involved in these programs.
We encourage you to invite friends from your Troops, too, so they can be with us for this special day. We will be pleased to welcome some of the Boy Scouts who meet on our campus, as well.
Women's Retreat: March 9-11
We still have two spots open. The cost is $225.00
Our topics will include:
· Why friendship with God matters
· Loving ourselves—isn't that being selfish? (Nope)
· How loving others is loving God
Reserve your spot TODAY!
CLICK HERE for more info.
NEW LOCATION!!
Old Mission San Luis Rey Retreat Center in Oceanside
RSVP now for Parent's Night out, February 16th!
Need a kid free evening? Want to grab sushi with your friends?
Bring your children to Parents Night out!
Drop off your children at church for three hours of programming, starting at 5pm.
The cost is $20.00 for the first child ($10 for the 2nd, $5 for 3rd+) and includes dinner.
Enjoy an evening out while your kids play games, make crafts, and enjoy fellowship!
It's a great night for all!
We request all spots be reserved by the Wednesday prior to the event.
Email Children's Ministry to save a spot!
Potluck Lunch on February 11!
Please join us for a Mardis Gras-themed potluck lunch on Sunday, February 11, after the 10:30am worship service. Bring a dish to share, and enjoy the good food everyone brings. (You can bring your own washable dishes from home, or use the disposable ones we have available.)
Did You Know: View Your Church Giving Record
We just mailed records of your giving to those who have donated to the church in 2017, which can be used for your tax records. Please let us know if you don't receive yours. Also, anytime, you can log onto OnRealm, our cloud-based church directory, to view or print a record of your giving to the church. You can also set up or manage secure, electronic giving to the church. Arrange a one-time gift or a recurring donation. Plus, you can access contact information for other church members, to better stay in touch with the community! If you don't already have a login, contact the office for an invitation to join.
The last of the poinsettias are now available to take home. We are so grateful to everyone who purchased plants to beautify the sanctuary for the Christmas season. If you would like to take one (or two+) home, they will be outside Fellowship Hall for the next two Sundays.
Attention 4th-8th graders!
Acolytes are needed for 10:30 worship each week. If you've been trained, you can sign up via our "sign up genius" (click here!)
If you are interested in being trained, email children's ministries!
Summer 2018: Mark Your Calendars!
Vacation Bible School:
(age 3-8th grade) August 13-17
BeachFaith Kids Arts Camp:
(K-5th grade) July 30-August 3
Baja Mission Trip:
with Inalienable (youth & adults) July 7-14
Summer Camps:
at Lazy W Ranch & other sites
UMW Honors Carol Pearson & Carol Walter
Our United Methodist Women honored two of our members with special recognition last Sunday. Carol Pearson was presented the 2018 Candle of Commitment, in honor of her great dedication and service in the mission and work of our UMW. Carol Walter was presented the Legacy Pin, a special honor, for the upcoming 150th Anniversary of UMW. Along with the award, our UMW Chapter made a donation to the Legacy Fund of UMW for its global work.
We join our UMW in celebrating and recognizing these two dynamic leaders in our church!
Save The Date for VBS!
Be sure to mark your calendars for
August 13th-17th!!
Believe it or not, VBS 2018 is on it's way and we want YOU to be part of this incredible ministry.
Save the date!
Announcements
Men's Breakfast: Our next breakfast is Monday, February 5, 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.
Spiritual Gifts Class:This three-week class concludes on Monday night, February 5, from 7-8:30pm in Epworth Lounge. Taught by Liz Gyori.
Prayer Quilt Ministry:Join us for our monthly quilting workshop Friday, February 9, 10am - noon in the choir room. We will continue your new year's work at finishing up last year's projects, and there's something for everyone to do to help. Even if you haven't tried quilt-making before, this is a great way to begin. Know someone in need of prayer? Anyone can sponsor a free prayer quilt. The Quilt Request Form is online or in the church office.
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.
Book Club, February 20, 2018 at 7PM: Jody Wilkinson has selected for our February book, “Before We Were Yours,” by Laura Wingate. So, for those of you who like to read ahead, here is your opportunity. Published in June, 2017, the hardcover is available on Amazon. We meet in May Day Parlor. For more information, contact Ann Gallagher.
This Week: Children, Youth & Adults
Nursery (6 weeks+): The Nursery is open during both services, for ages 6 weeks to 5 yrs old. Located right off of the parking lot across from Epworth Lounge. Please know that children of any age are always welcome in worship. Any questions email the Nursery Coordinator: Adriana Hwang
Children's Ministry(age 3 - 3rd Grade):We'll start out upstairs in the Sunday School room, sign in as early at 10:20. We will explore a Bible story, play, and make a craft! Afterward, we'll join our families in worship for Holy Communion.
Church R Us (Grades 4 & 5): Start out in Worship with your family, then head to class with our youth director, Stephen Hale during "Passing of the Peace". You'll head back to church for communion!
Youth Ministry (6th-12th grade):
-Middle School Sunday School? YES!!!!
-Youth Group(2-4pm on Sunday)? Nope! You were going to a Super Bowl party anyway.
Young Adults (19-not very specific):
"Grow Groups" are starting for Lent! There are many to choose from, Young Adults and young families are encouraged to join the Monday night class, but are welcome at any of them. Click here for more info!
Adult Sunday School: Bible Study and Discussion in May Day Parlor. Sunday mornings from 9:30-10:15am. Led by Helen Stockwell .
Thursday Pastor's Bible Study:
We usually meet Thursday mornings from 11:00-noon, in May Day Parlor. All are welcome.
United Methodist News & Events
West District Training Conference: for Current and Emerging Leaders - on Saturday, February 3, 2018 from 8:00 AM - 2:00 PM at Holman UMC in Los Angeles
Our congregation is a part of the El Tordondo Mission Area, in the West District of the California-PacificAnnual Conference of the United Methodist Church.
First United Methodist Church of Redondo Beach
243 S. Broadway
Redondo Beach, California 90277, United States
(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.
SHARED BREAD NEEDS DONATIONS OF:
Men’s jeans waist sizes 32- 38; Men’s new socks, white or grey only- all sizes; Men’s tennis shoes - especially sizes 9.5 to 11.5
Please bring them to church on Sunday, or to the office during the week.
DESSERTS FOR SHARED BREAD
Homemade treats are treasured by our guests – but purchased treats would be wonderful, as well. Please wrap desserts tightly and mark for Shared Bread. Deliver Sunday (when you come for church) through Wednesday to the church kitchen (or the office if kitchen is closed.) Wednesday deliveries
should be here by 4:00pm to help us plan our meal better. THANK YOU!
Michael Joncas (born Jan Michael Joncas) is a priest, liturgical theologian and a composer. He did his Master’s degree in liturgy at Notre Dame and studied at the Pontifical Liturgical Institute in Rome. He was ordained in 1980 and now teaches at the University of St. Thomas (in Minnesota), at Notre Dame and at the St. John’s School of Theology. He is best known for his hymn On Eagle’s Wings, which he wrote in the late 70’s, basing the lyrics on Psalm 91 and Isaiah 40. He recorded it in 1979, and it has become a standard in the liturgical music world (it’s even in our hymnbook). It was performed at the funerals of many of the victims of the 9/11 attack, as well as the funeral of Luciano Pavarotti. He has stated that his preference for the title would be "On Eagle's Wings," indicating that the wings belong to a single eagle as a metaphor for God, but he said he could make an argument for the plural "On Eagles' Wings," since many wings would be needed to lift up the multitude of people in covenant with God...
Thursday, February 1, 2018
Music Director, Jim Raycroft, will
share upcoming worship music
selections and a little bit of history, too.
Jim Raycroft
Thursday, 1 February 2018 by Jim Raycroft
Michael Joncas (born Jan Michael Joncas) is a priest, liturgical theologian and a composer. He did his Master's degree in liturgy at Notre Dame and studied at the Pontifical Liturgical Institute in Rome. He was ordained in 1980 and now teaches at the University of St. Thomas (in Minnesota), at Notre Dame and at the St. John's School of Theology. He is best known for his hymn On Eagle's Wings, which he wrote in the late 70's, basing the lyrics on Psalm 91 and Isaiah 40. He recorded it in 1979, and it has become a standard in the liturgical music world (it's even in our hymnbook). It was performed at the funerals of many of the victims of the 9/11 attack, as well as the funeral of Luciano Pavarotti. He has stated that his preference for the title would be "On Eagle's Wings," indicating that the wings belong to a single eagle as a metaphor for God, but he said he could make an argument for the plural "On Eagles' Wings," since many wings would be needed to lift up the multitude of people in covenant with God.
David Wallace Crowder, who goes by the mononymous stage name Crowder (in the finest tradition of Cher, Madonna, Adele and Prince), was the lead singer in the now defunct David Crowder Band, a contemporary worship band that disbanded in 2012. He has since gone on to a solo career, releasing his first solo studio album in 2014, under the sixsteps/sparrow label, called Neon Steeple. Come As You Are, one of the cuts from that album, peaked at #3 on the US Christian Songs chart and went on to receive a Grammy nomination in 2015 for Best Contemporary Christian Music Performance/Song.
One Thing Remains is a song that was written in 2010 by Brian Johnson, Jeremy Riddle and Christa Black Gifford. It was recorded and released as part of the live album Come Away, which was recorded at the 2010 Jesus Culture Encounter Conference. The Jesus Culture Conference began as part of the youth group of Bethel Church in Redding, California, with the first conference being held in 1999 and attracting 500 attendees. Since then, it has grown into a musical force for worship with a full time staff of dozens and a discography that numbers 33 albums. It recently expanded to Sacramento, where they meet at Folsom High School. One Thing Remains has been covered by numerous artists, including Kristian Stanfill, Israel Houghton and Chris Tomlin.
George Frideric Handel (born Georg Friedrich Händel) is known as an English composer, but he was actually born, raised and trained in Germany. He was born in 1650 in Halle an der Saal, a city just north of Leipzig (famous for its resident composer J.S. Bach) in what was East Germany, and was the son of a coppersmith. Between the age of 7 and 9, he began training with the only teacher he would ever have, Friedrich Wilhelm Zachow, who introduced him to both the traditional music of fugues and counterpoint, and to the newer forms of music, especially the new Italian art form, opera. By age 9, he was composing entire services of music for Zachow's church. After graduating from the University of Halle in 1702, he moved to Hamburg, a free city with an established opera company, where he took a position with the Hamburg opera orchestra (playing violin and harpsichord) and began writing operas in the Italian style (in those days, operatic subjects were always based on Greek mythology). In 1706, he traveled to Italy at the invitation of the Medicis, who were trying to establish Florence as the musical capitol of Italy by attracting the greatest talents in the world. He wrote operas in Florence and sacred music for the clergy in Rome. In 1710, he became Kapellmeister (person in charge of music-making) to Georg, Elector of Hannover. In 1712, he decided to move to London, and in a twist of fate, Georg of Hannover became King George I of England in 1714 (Handel had to appease his old/new boss by writing a bunch of music for him, including the Coronation Anthems, also known as Zadok the Priest, which our choir has sung, and has been performed at every British coronation since). Handel ultimately founded 3 companies to supply the British nobility with Italian opera, including the opera house at Covent Garden. As financial returns from opera began to dwindle, he turned to writing oratorios – they were cheaper to produce since no sets were required and the singers wore their own clothes. Once he began writing oratorios, he never completely returned to opera. His Messiah was written in 3 weeks in a burst of energy and debuted in Dublin in 1741. He died on April 14, 1759, and was buried in Westminster Abbey with full state honors and with 3000 attendees present. This week's anthem, Lift Up Your Heads, is #33 in Part 2 of The Messiah.
Click here to read more Music Notes!
Looking for a Way to Volunteer?
The Welcome Team is looking for volunteers who can help about once a month between the two services and/or immediately after the 10:30 service. Go to our "Want to Help" page to learn more about this awesome ministry, as well as several other current ways you can lend a hand in ministry.
Calling All Gardeners!
Do you have a couple hours once or twice a month to help maintain our beautiful church gardens? Tasks would include pruning, planting, weeding and watering. Whatever you can help with, we'd love to have you join our team! Duties could change seasonally. Sign up through the church office, or by talking with Jody Wilkinson.
Our UMW is back to their regular meeting times.
Circle Meeting Time
- Naomi Circle 2nd Tuesday @ 10:00am
- Hannah Circle 2nd Tuesday @ 7:00pm
- Mary Circle 4th Monday @ 7:00pm
Want to know more? Click Here!
United Methodist Women’s Reading Program: There are many titles to choose from with new ones added every year! Books are available in the UMW library located in May Day Parlor. Any one can read the books and our own local UMW unit will get credit! click here for information about the program.
Support missions through recycling!
Bring your plastic bottles, aluminum cans AND CRV glass bottles to church every Sunday. By recycling we can support Corazon, Crop Walk, Habitat for Humanity and some of the United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR) programs: Syrian refugee relief, eradicating hunger, clean water, ending malaria and fighting HIV/AIDS. Please bring your cans and bottles.
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
Campus WiFi network is: First UMC Guests; Password is: openhearts
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.
Hearing Assistance Devices are available on Sunday mornings. Just ask for one at the audio/video booth in the sanctuary.
Connect with us
First United Methodist Church
243 South Broadway
Redondo Beach, California 90277,United States
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