Pastor Craig Brown
Are Your Ears Burning?
Within the predominant culture the discussion of one's faith and politics are forbidden subjects. Of course, on social media the opinions of all are open to broadcast with little or no ramifications. Only the most radical Twitter post will garner a reaction from the public.
In casual conversation and even in personal relationships do the topics of faith and politics ever come up? Setting politics aside, is anyone asking about your faith and spiritual background? Are your ears burning with questions about your behaviors as a person of faith?
Paul exhorts us to "Let your gentle spirit be made known to all." (Philippians 4:5) During the month of June, we will be exploring in worship how we might live a questionable life. In other words, do we exhibit behaviors that reveal commitment to Christ and the Kingdom of God?
The call upon us is to live lives so "unusual" that others will ask questions of us. Are your ears burning with conversation about your faith? Perhaps we need to give the world something to talk about!
Craig +
California-Pacific Annual Conference meets June 18-21
at the University of Redlands
Clergy and lay delegates from nearly 400 United Methodist Churches gather in Redlands for our Annual Conference. This year the Conference will consider issues related to the mission and ministry of the UMC in Southern California and Pacific Islands. Primary in that work is the election of delegates to the 2016 General and Jurisdictional Conferences. Each of these gatherings set the rules of the UMC and elect Bishops, respectively. Let us keep our Lay Delegates (Judi Allday, Brenda Blake, Ray Homan, Susan Mattheis, Pam Molohon, Peter Opsal, Dione Taylor, Jason Tucker, Lynette Williamson) and our clergy in prayer during this important gathering!Jessica Commissioning
Ordination Celebration for Pastor Jessica Strysko
Saturday, June 21 | 5 PM | Memorial Chapel at the University of RedlandsOn June 21 Pastor Jessica Strysko will be ordained to the Order of Elder at the California-Pacific Annual Conference. First Church members and friends will want to celebrate with Pastor Jessica as she completes the long journey toward ordination. A carpool will depart from First Church at 3 PM on that Saturday. Park your car in lot "P2." Bring lawn chairs and some picnic food to share. We will gather on the campus green in front of the Memorial Chapel at 5 PM. Please RSVP and willingness to help drive to Eleene Myers.
WORSHIP
SUNDAY, JUNE 15, 2014
A Questionable Life
Acts 2:37-47
Acts 2:37 Now when they heard this, they were cut to the heart, and said to Peter and the rest of the apostles, “Brothers, what shall we do?”38 Peter said to them, “Repent, and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. 39 For the promise is to you, and to your children, and to all who are far off, even as many as the Lord our God will call to himself.” 40 With many other words he testified, and exhorted them, saying, “Save yourselves from this crooked generation!”
41 Then those who gladly received his word were baptized. There were added that day about three thousand souls. 42 They continued steadfastly in the apostles’ teaching and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and prayer. 43 Fear came on every soul, and many wonders and signs were done through the apostles. 44 All who believed were together, and had all things in common. 45 They sold their possessions and goods, and distributed them to all, according as anyone had need. 46 Day by day, continuing steadfastly with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread at home, they took their food with gladness and singleness of heart, 47 praising God, and having favor with all the people. The Lord added to the assembly day by day those who were being saved.
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John Wesley’s Notes-Commentary:
Acts 2:37-47
Verse 37
[37] Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men and brethren, what shall we do?
They said to the apostles, Brethren — They did not style them so before.
Verse 38
[38] Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.
Repent — And hereby return to God: be baptized - Believing in the name of Jesus - And ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost - See the three-one God clearly proved. See Acts 26:20. The gift of the Holy Ghost does not mean in this place the power of speaking with tongues. For the promise of this was not given to all that were afar off, in distant ages and nations. But rather the constant fruits of faith, even righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost.
Whomsoever the Lord our God shall call — (Whether they are Jews or Gentiles) by his word and by his Spirit: and who are not disobedient to the heavenly calling. But it is observable St. Peter did not yet understand the very words he spoke.
Verse 40
[40] And with many other words did he testify and exhort, saying, Save yourselves from this untoward generation.
And with many other words did he testify and exhort — In such an accepted time we should add line upon line, and not leave off, till the thing is done.
Save yourselves from this perverse generation — Many of whom were probably mocking still.
Verse 41
[41] Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls.
And there were added — To the hundred and twenty.
Verse 42
[42] And they continued stedfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers.
And they continued steadfast — So their daily Church communion consisted in these four particulars: 1. Hearing the word; 2. Having all things common; 3. Receiving the Lord's Supper; 4. Prayer. Ye diff'rent sects, who all declare, Lo here is Christ, and Christ is there; Your stronger proofs divinely give, And show me where the Christians live!
Verse 43
[43] And fear came upon every soul: and many wonders and signs were done by the apostles.
And fear came upon every soul — Of those who did not join with them: whereby persecution was prevented, till it was needful for them.
Verse 45
[45] And sold their possessions and goods, and parted them to all men, as every man had need.
And sold their possessions — Their lands and houses; and goods - Their movables.
And parted them to all as any one had need — To say the Christians did this only till the destruction of Jerusalem, is not true; for many did it long after. Not that there was any positive command for so doing: it needed not; for love constrained them. It was a natural fruit of that love wherewith each member of the community loved every other as his own soul. And if the whole Christian Church had continued in this spirit, this usage must have continued through all ages. To affirm therefore that Christ did not design it should continue, is neither more nor less than to affirm, that Christ did not design this measure of love should continue. I see no proof of this.
Verse 46
[46] And they, continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart,
Continuing daily — breaking the bread - in the Lord's Supper, as did many Churches for some ages.
They partook of their food with gladness and singleness of heart — They carried the same happy and holy temper through all their common actions: eating and working with the same spirit wherewith they prayed and received the Lord's Supper.
Verse 47
[47] Praising God, and having favour with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved.
The Lord added daily such as were saved — From their sins: from the guilt and power of them.
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Daily Devotional
Monday, June 9, 2014What is the response to Peter's sermon?
What role does repentance play in spiritual awakening?
Tuesday, June 10, 2014
What does the promise of inclusion in verse 39 mean to you?
How do you live it?
Wednesday, June 11, 2014
What makes the kind of growth in verse 41 possible?
Does it still happen?
Thursday, June 12, 2014
How are you engaged in the four practices of verse 42?
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SANCTUARY WORSHIP
8 AM | 9:30 | 11 AM | Pastor Craig BrownMODERN WORSHIP
WATER'S EDGE | at The Cove, Krause United Methodist Center
9:30 AM | Band | Communion | Pastor Elbert Kim
F5 CHURCH | Linder Hall | 11 AM | Band
Pastor Elbert Kim and Craig Brown's message via video
CHILDREN'S SUNDAY SCHOOL | 9:30 ~ 11:30
Family worship time and Sunday School schedules here...
Graduation
Graduate RecognitionSunday, June 15 | All worship services
Congratulations to all 2014 graduates -- see the latest list here!
Graduates will be recognized in all worship services this Sunday, June 15.
WEDNESDAYS
Vespers 5:15 PM - Vespers | Sanctuary | Music for meditation | Communion For the next few weeks, Vesper attendees can submit a request to sing their favorite hymn during Vespers this summer. Bob Plimpton explains here...
6 PM - Dinner ($6)| Linder Hall | RSVP to the office 619-297-4366 by Mon.
6:45 PM - The Way all-church study groups, last class tonight, June 11
WEDNESDAY STUDIES COMING:
June 18 - Modern Worship Music: What's It About? Bob Plimpton will lead an Adult Ed Seminar on Modern Worship Music, at 6:45 in Linder Hall.
June 25 - "I AM" Study. The self-revelatory "I am" statements of Jesus in the Gospel of John will be examined Wednesdays at 6:45 beginning June 25. Co-led by Pastors Jessica Strysko, Elbert Kim and Greg LaDue.
United Methodist Women
Jetta Lenox
Carol Dubke
Quiet Disciples honored on June 7
Carol Dubke and Jetta Lenox have been chosen as this year's Quiet Disciples United Methodist Women of First Church. The annual award is given to those who contribute much, but don't seek recognition. They were honored by the District UMW at Chollas View UMC. They are steadfast leaders contributing to many facets of church life -- quietly and efficiently going about their activities. Our UMW is extremely pleased to award them this honor.
STUDY
Modern Worship Music: What's It About?Wednesday, June 18 | 6:45 PM | Linder Hall
Bob Plimpton will lead a seminar on modern worship music, including video clips of worship bands leading many of the most popular contemporary songs. Spiritual renewal has always been accompanied by an outpouring of music. Why is "worship" and "music" virtually synonymous in newer churches? Can "traditional" churches learn from this movement? Why do some question if we can even worship God properly through rock music? Come enjoy an introduction to a phenomenon that may be new to many of you. Make it an evening with Vespers and dinner.
Bible Study
The "I am" statements of Jesus in the Gospel of JohnWednesdays, June 25 - Aug. 18 | 10:30 AM & 6:45 PM | Linder Lounge
John records seven self-revelatory comments by Jesus. In that time and cultural context, these comments would have had a much more obvious meaning to his audience than to us. Yet, these statements still remain powerful and provocative. Pastors Jessica Strysko, Elbert Kim and Greg LaDue will examine each of these statements as to what they mean to us in understanding who Jesus was and is.
MUSIC
Treble ClefSummer Sings are back!
The ever popular Summer Sings are being offered again this year at First Church, beginning Wednesday, June 25. It is your opportunity to sing major works with four of our finest conductors in San Diego. Scores and refreshments are provided for $15 per sing or $50 for all four. It's free for students and observers. No reservations are needed. Registration begins in the Trotter Chapel narthex at 6:30 PM. Rehearsals are held in the Sutherland Family Music Center from 7-9:15 PM. See schedule here...
SummerChoir
Summer Choir begins in July!The Summer Choir season will soon begin -- when we create two short-term opportunities for the congregation and community to join our choir for four or five weeks to participate in our Summer Choirs: Soprano/Alto and Tenor/Bass.
The Tenor/Bass Choir will sing at the 9:30 and 11 AM sanctuary services on Sundays, July 5, 12, 19, and 26. Rehearsals are on Thursdays in the Sutherland Music Center from 7-8:30 PM. Sunday morning warm-up begins at 9. Come at 8:45 a.m. for coffee, doughnuts and fellowship and sing for one or both services.
The Soprano/Alto Choir's first rehearsal is July 30. More details will follow.
Even if you cannot attend all the weeks, you are welcome to participate -- a great way to try out the Adult Choir Ministry without making a long-term commitment. Questions? Contact our Director of Church Music, Dr. Stanley M. Wicks, 619-297-4366, ext. 135.
YOUTH & CHILDREN
Cal Pac CampsDistrict Summer Camps for Children
Grades 1-3: July 20-23, info... | Grades 3-6: July 20-25, info...
Registration deadline: June 15
Experience Camp Cedar Glen overnight church camp! Pastor Jessica is serving on the leadership team and the theme is "Get Jesus." Experience Christian community in the outdoors building relationships with God and one another through small groups, Bible study, worship, games, hiking, swimming, archery, challenge courses, singing, campfires and meals served family style! Find out all the details at the Cap Pac Camps website or contact Jessica Strysko or Laura Schwarcz.
High School Work Week
Monday-Friday, June 23-27 | 9 AM - 5 PM | High School Room | Lunch provided
Come and help us with changing the high school room. We will be painting, installing crown molding, writing scriptures on the wall, and so much more. Sign up Sundays with Richard Annett.
K1 Speed Racing
High School Guys' NightSunday, June 29 |5:30-11 PM | The Cove | $30
Come to Youth Group from 3:30-5:30 PM, and high school guys will stay and go K1 Speed Racing followed by dinner and a movie back at our Youth Center. Sign up and pay by June 27. Questions? Contact Richard Annett.
Thursday Beach
Thursdays, July 3-24 | 9 AM - 4 PM | La Jolla ShoresMiddle and high school youth can participate in District days at the beach on Thursdays during the month of July. Come to the church at 9 AM or meet us at La Jolla Shores. Bring a sack lunch or money for food, towel, and sunscreen. Questions? Contact Richard Annett, Director of Student Ministries.
Take advantage of Wild Animals VBS earlybird registration!Monday-Friday, July 14-18 | 9 AM-12 PM | Children age 4-finished 5th gr.
Earlybird through June 30: $25/child, Register here...
Pre/after care available, $15/day/child
At this year's Wild Animals - Where Jesus' Love is One-of-a-Kind Vacation Bible School, kids will discover a habitat filled with incredible Bible-learning experiences through sight, sound, touch, and even taste.
DONATE SUPPLIES OR VOLUNTEER ON A WILD ANIMALS TEAM!
Things are getting "Wild" at First Church as the team starts prepping for VBS week. Our Children's Director, Laura Schwarcz, and VBS Co-director Kayleigh Neel would love to have you join them during the week. Stop by the VBS patio table on Sundays through June 22 to sign-up to help during the week, or grab a paw print filled with lots of items needed for donation. We are excited to share Jesus' love to our children here at First and can't wait for you to join us!
SERVE
Join our next mission trip to MarylandSD Maryland Sandy Recovery Mission Trip | Sept. 20-27 | $200 deposit
The South District mission team will travel to Crisfield, Maryland. A team of 30 will help people affected by super storm Sandy who cannot afford to fix their homes. Registration and deposit are due this Sunday, June 15! An additional $600 per participant will need to be raised by Sept. 15. Previous trip participants have not had to pay this out-of-pocket. Info: Jennifer Demaree, 619-540-5257.
Health Kit
Health Kits for Border MinistryCollecting items through Sunday, June 22
Assembling Monday June 23 | 10 AM - 12:30 PM | Linder Lounge
United Methodist Women and the Global Missions Task Force are teaming up to collect items and assemble Health Kits for our Border Missionary, Saul Montiel. Help them collect Kit items, see list here..., and bring to the church office, or patio table on Sundays, June 15 & 22. All are welcome to help assemble kits on June 22!
School's Out PartySunday, July 13 | 12:15-1:15 PM | The Cove, United Methodist Center
Come and celebrate or explore the ministry that has been done this year at Cherokee Point Elementary School! Join us for food, hear and share stories, and learn how you can get involved in the Fall. RSVP here ...
2015 Mission Trip to Costa Rica
Want to serve the people of Costa Rica alongside our very own covenant volunteer in mission, Brooke Collins? Brooke serves with Strong Missions, and is working with our Global Missions Task Force to bring a team of interested people from First Church to serve in Costa Rica in early August 2015. Details of how we will serve depend on the gifts of who will be on our team. Interested? Contact Pastor Jessica Strysko. HEALTH
Aging: Planning & Coping Conference for Seniors and FamiliesFriday, June 27 | 8:30 AM-3 PM | Linder Hall
People are living longer but with illness and medications prevalent in their lives. Learn how to approach aging from a healthier perspective with an alert mind, vitality and a plan for the future! Hear from the experts and discover valuable resources in this one day seminar designed for promoting healthy aging for the senior and their family members. Registration required -- register here...
NOTICES
Friday Night Singles (50+ or -) meets every Friday at 6 PM for a meal followed by activities. Email Karen Maczka or call 619-263-3743.
McDonalds gift cards for people in need - The Heart of Christianity Class has $5 McDonalds gift cards available to distribute to people in need. Stop by the table on the patio for more information. Donations requested.
Pick up your Church Directory. If you had your photo taken for the directory last summer, you can pick up your free copy in the church office Monday-Friday, 9-5. Questions? Contact Deb Rosevear, 619-297-4366 x-123.
Nurse's Notes: Aging Summit 2014 -- Thursday, June 12, 8:30 AM - 2:30 PM, Town and Country Convention Center, Mission Valley. Download the flyer here ...
UMW Hope Circle June meeting is Saturday, June 21, 10-11:30 AM, Linder Hall 5. Marjorie Larson will lead the program on the poverty -- "Charity is Not Enough" -- Evelyn Lieke, devotions; Joanna Illiew, music and June chairperson. All welcome. Questions? Marion Davis, 858-274-9748.
Pt. Loma Bible Study will meet for a potluck and program at the home of the Harrisons on Thursday, June 26, at 6:30 PM. Please bring a "main dish salad" and your Bible. The Harrisons will provide beverage, rolls, utensils, and a simple dessert. Please call Sandy at 619-222-2351 for more information.
Softball Ministry -- Sunday afternoons, June-August, $25 registration (includes team t-shirt). We grow our faith and build relationships with other members of FUMC over a 10-week period in the summer. We'll compete with other San Diego County churches. If you play softball or would like to get involved, email Brett Goda at goda.brett@gmail.com.
Next Neighborhood Family Meal is June 30, 5:30-7 PM, at Normal Heights UMC. Help provide and serve food and enjoy fellowship with families, teens, seniors and people in need of a nutritious, hot meal. Address: 4650 Mansfield St. Volunteers prepare and bring a main dish, salad or dessert. Email Brenda Blake or call 619-297-4366, x125.
The Altar Flower Calendar has openings for Sundays in June/July 2014. Help us fill those dates. Call Eleene in the church office at 619-297-4366 to make your reservation. Each bouquet is $50.
Save the Date:
The Marriage Course, Sundays, July 13 - August 24, 12:30-2:30 PM, $40/couple.
United Methodist Women's Fashion Show and Salad Luncheon benefiting UMW missions, Saturday, July 19, 12 PM. Fashions from Chico's. Tickets: $20, purchase online...
Were you born BEFORE 1964? Where? Plan to come and claim your state and state your claims! -- at an All-States Picnic on Saturday, August 2, 12:30-3:30 PM in Linder Hall, sponsored by Seniors Ministry. Picnic meal provided, $6.
Sponsor a Prayer Quilt for someone in need of prayer -- whatever the reason. Submit a request
or call Cheryl Johnson at 619-297-7575.
Prayers & Squares Prayer Quilt Ministry meets twice a month. For our next meeting, see our 2014 schedule.
Our "Just a Little Gift' Shop" is open Sundays, 9 AM to 12:30 PM. It's located below the sanctuary and through the sanctuary meeting room.
Job Opportunities at Pt. Loma Nazarene University: HVAC Sr Technician, Asst. Director of Advancement Services, Financial Aid Officer - Graduate Programs, Benefit Manager, Sr. Writer, Athletic Trainer, Asst. Director of Community Life - Part time, Department Asst. - Part time, Payroll Supervisor, Admissions Counselor. Generous benefits package including tuition remission for employee and family. Qualified applicants who desire to work in a Christian environment are encouraged to apply. Visit our website for the most current list of openings.
MISSION OUTREACH THRIFT STORE | 3186 Adams Ave.
Victorian Umbrella Hall Stand From the home of one the three sisters in Mission Hills.
$799.
Open Monday to Saturday 9:30 AM - 4:30 PM
Proceeds from the Thrift Store support several local missions and the United Methodist Women. Last year we raised $34,000 for local missions.
In Our Prayers
We invite you to join us as we keep these individuals and families in our prayers this week.
A Prayer Quilt was presented on Sunday, June 8, for Lynette Williamson. Please keep this individual in your prayers.
Members of our congregation in the military who are deployed and their families:
Sam Adams
Will Brown
Jason Constantine
Jake Huntley
Chris Lemon
Doug Samples
Collin Sullivan
Matt O'Neal
2111 CAMINO DEL RIO South
San Diego, CA 92108
(619)297-4366
WWW.FUMCSD.ORG
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