 |
Senior Pastor
Craig Brown |
Vision 200 - A Crossroads Celebration
As we kick off the fall season this Sunday,September 7, I have a great sense of excitement and expectation for the year ahead.
In November we will celebrate the 50th anniversary of our congregation's relocation to Mission Valley. Fifty years ago there was a great vision about moving our church to the crossroads of San Diego as it emerged with many freeways crossing paths in Mission Valley. The decision made then, around our 100th anniversary as a church, set the course of our church that leads us to today -- closing in on our 150th anniversary as a church in 2019. We celebrate the vision and dreams of fifty years ago that have brought us to today.
There was a vision that brought our church to the crossroads of the city. We are now the custodians, or stewards, of that vision. What decisions will we make during these next few years that will lead this church toward its 200th anniversary in 2069? Will we dare to have the same courage and spiritual devotion as those that have gone before us? I think so!
During this year of Crossroads Celebration, let us all dedicate ourselves to Vision 200, the 200th anniversary of our church. We are now at a crossroads that will set the course for the next fifty years. God has great things for us in the near future.
Will you dare to follow Jesus? Will you dare to leave a greater church for those who worship here in 2069? It is our time to lead the way!
Craig+
|
 WORSHIP
|
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2014
The Presence of the Future - Vision 200
Scriptures:
Luke 2:25-32 In Jerusalem at the time, there was a man, Simeon by name, a good man, a man who lived in the prayerful expectancy of help for Israel. And the Holy Spirit was on him. The Holy Spirit had shown him that he would see the Messiah of God before he died. Led by the Spirit, he entered the Temple. As the parents of the child Jesus brought him in to carry out the rituals of the Law, Simeon took him into his arms and blessed God:
God, you can now release your servant;
release me in peace as you promised.
With my own eyes I’ve seen your salvation;
it’s now out in the open for everyone to see:
A God-revealing light to the non-Jewish nations,
and of glory for your people Israel.
33-35 Jesus’ father and mother were speechless with surprise at these words. Simeon went on to bless them, and said to Mary his mother,
This child marks both the failure and
the recovery of many in Israel,
A figure misunderstood and contradicted—
the pain of a sword-thrust through you—
But the rejection will force honesty,
as God reveals who they really are.
36-38 Anna the prophetess was also there, a daughter of Phanuel from the tribe of Asher. She was by now a very old woman. She had been married seven years and a widow for eighty-four. She never left the Temple area, worshiping night and day with her fastings and prayers. At the very time Simeon was praying, she showed up, broke into an anthem of praise to God, and talked about the child to all who were waiting expectantly for the freeing of Jerusalem.
39-40 When they finished everything required by God in the Law, they returned to Galilee and their own town, Nazareth. There the child grew strong in body and wise in spirit. And the grace of God was on him.
____________________________
John Wesley’s Notes-Commentary:
Luke 2:25-40
Verse 25
[25] And, behold, there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon; and the same man was just and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel: and the Holy Ghost was upon him.
The consolation of Israel — A common phrase for the Messiah, who was to be the everlasting consolation of the Israel of God.
The Holy Ghost was upon him — That is, he was a prophet.
Verse 27
[27] And he came by the Spirit into the temple: and when the parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him after the custom of the law,
By the Spirit — By a particular revelation or impulse from him.
Verse 30
[30] For mine eyes have seen thy salvation,
Thy salvation — Thy Christ, thy Saviour.
Verse 32
[32] A light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of thy people Israel.
And the glory of thy people Israel — For after the Gentiles are enlightened, all Israel shall be saved.
Verse 33
[33] And Joseph and his mother marvelled at those things which were spoken of him.
Joseph and his mother marvelled at those things which were spoken — For they did not thoroughly understand them.
Verse 34
[34] And Simeon blessed them, and said unto Mary his mother, Behold, this child is set for the fall and rising again of many in Israel; and for a sign which shall be spoken against;
Simeon blessed them — Joseph and Mary.
This child is set for the fall and rising again of many — That is, he will be a savour of death to some, to unbelievers: a savour of life to others, to believers: and for a sign which shall be spoken against - A sign from God, yet rejected of men: but the time for declaring this at large was not yet come: that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed - The event will be, that by means of that contradiction, the inmost thoughts of many, whether good or bad, will be made manifest.
Verse 35
[35] (Yea, a sword shall pierce through thy own soul also,) that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.
A sword shall pierce through thy own soul — So it did, when he suffered: particularly at his crucifixion.
Verse 37
[37] And she was a widow of about fourscore and four years, which departed not from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day.
Fourscore and four years — These were the years of her life, not her widowhood only.
Who departed not from the temple — Who attended there at all the stated hours of prayer.
But served God with fastings and prayers — Even at that age.
Night and day — That is, spending therein a considerable part of the night, as well as of the day.
Verse 38
[38] And she coming in that instant gave thanks likewise unto the Lord, and spake of him to all them that looked for redemption in Jerusalem.
To all that were waiting for redemption — The sceptre flow appeared to he departing from Judah, though it was not actually gone: Daniel's weeks were plainly near their period. And the revival of the spirit of prophecy, together with the memorable occurrences relating to the birth of John the Baptist, and of Jesus, could not but encourage and quicken the expectation of pious persons at this time. Let the example of these aged saints animate those, whose hoary heads, like theirs, are a crown of glory, being found in the way of righteousness. Let those venerable lips, so soon to be silent in the grave, be now employed in the praises of their Redeemer. Let them labour to leave those behind, to whom Christ will be as precious as he has been to them; and who will be waiting for God's salvation, when they are gone to enjoy it.
Verse 40
[40] And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, filled with wisdom: and the grace of God was upon him.
And the child grew — In bodily strength and stature; and waxed strong in spirit - The powers of his human mind daily improved; filled with wisdom - By the light of the indwelling Spirit, which gradually opened itself in his soul; and the grace of God was upon him - That is, the peculiar favour of God rested upon him, even as man.
____________________________
Daily Devotions:
Monday, September 1, 2014
Sermon theme: The Presence of the Future - Vision 200
Text to read: Luke 2:25-40
In your time at First Church what has been its greatest accomplishment?
Why?
Tuesday, September 2, 2014
Sermon theme: The Presence of the Future - Vision 200
Read the passage from Luke 2.
How would you have felt as Simeon or Anna?
Wednesday, September 3, 2014
Sermon theme: The Presence of the Future - Vision 200
How do you feel when on the threshold of change and renewal?
Why?
Thursday, September 4, 2014
Sermon theme: The Presence of the Future - Vision 200
Are there places where God is opening a new season in your life?
What does it look like?
____________________________
|
|
SANCTUARY WORSHIP
8 AM | 9:30 AM | 11 AM | Pastor Craig Brown
|
M O D E R N W O R S H I P
|
 WATER'S EDGE | at The Cove, Krause United Methodist Center
9:30 AM | Band | Communion | Pastor Elbert Kim
Come find us at the Ministry Fair!
|
F5 CHURCH | Linder Hall | 5PM | Band
Pastor Craig Brown, preaching live
|
SUNDAY DISCIPLESHIP PROGRAMS | 8 AM - 12 PM, 5 - 6 PM
|
 BAPTISM OF INFANTS AND CHILDREN | SEPTEMBER 21
If you would like to have your child baptized, contact Demmie Divine at 619-297-4366, ext. 108 or email ddivine@fumcsd.org
|
WEDNESDAYS
|
M O R N I N G
E V E N I N G
5:15 PM - Vespers | Sanctuary | Music for meditation | Communion
6 PM - Dinner ($6)| Linder Hall | RSVP to the office 619-297-4366 by Mon.
6:45 PM - Pastor's Bible Study | Linder Lounge |
SERVE
|
Cherokee Pt. Practical Communications Skills Workshop
Saturday, September 6 *|9 AM - 12:00 PM | Linder Lounge
A free continental breakfast will be served at 8:30 AM
If you are serving, or exploring the possibility of becoming involved with the Cherokee Point Elementary School Ministry, you are invited to participate in a Saturday morning workshop that will be focused on enhancing communication skills and building capacity for empathy and compassion for others. Please join us for this workshop that will help us grow as servant leaders at Cherokee Point and beyond. * Please RSVP by Thursday, September 4. Questions: contact Brenda Blake.
|
Fall Ministry Fair on the Plaza this Sunday, Sept. 7
9 AM - 12:30 PM
Kick-off Fall with some great ways to get more involved, learn about church ministries' opportunities, and connect with friends or connect for the first time. Tables representing various ministries set up all around the plaza, and the energy is always a joy to experience! Come participate, share, and invite a friend.
|
Hands and Hearts to Serve
Sundays, Ministry Fair | Sept. 7 (plaza), 14 and 21 (patio)
Have you been wondering how you can best use your special talents -- professional experience, interests and abilities within the church? There is a place for you, and you are needed! Our Nominating Committee is developing a slate of incoming members for First Church's administrative committees for 2015 and beyond, and would love to know where you might like to
serve. Online signup form...
|
San Diego Habitat for Humanity will be hosting two volunteer orientations here at our church. You are invited to attend either one if you are interested in being a part of their incredible work of renovating and constructing homes for veterans and low income families throughout our community. The orientations will be on Thursday, September 11 and Thursday, October 2. Both will be held inLinder Lounge from 7 - 8 PM. Hope to see you there!
|
Shoes That Fit Change Drive | September 14 and 21
The FUMC Shoes That Fit change drive provides new shoes to students in need at several San Diego area elementary schools. Past contribution campaigns have provided shoes to more than 2,500 disadvantaged students, changing lives in our local community. As children begin the school year, your support is needed to continue this important mission. Please bring your change (or bills and checks) to the Shoes That Fit table between services on Sept. 14 and 21. Read article...
Shoes that Fit - Change Drive
Brenda Blake, Director of Church and Community WorkServe
Good Things Come in a Shoebox – Shoes That Fit Change Drive 9/14, 21, 2014
A not-so-funny thing happens at school when your shoes don’t fit, or they are falling apart, or they used to belong to another member in your family – or worse, to a stranger. Suddenly all you can think of are your feet. Who’s staring at my shoes? They’re so tight, I’ll have to take them off to walk home. What if my shoe falls apart playing at recess? What do I do when some bully teases me about wearing holey, smelly shoes?
The FUMC Shoes That Fit change drive provides new shoes to students in need at several San Diego area elementary schools. Past contribution campaigns have provided shoes to more than 2,500 disadvantaged students, changing lives in our local community.
As children begin the school year, your support is needed to continue this important mission. Please bring your change (or bills and checks) to the Shoes That Fit table between services on September 14.
After all, new shoes provide dignity, hope, pride and self-esteem. That’s an awful lot of good things in a rather small box, don’t you think?[Brenda Blake, Director, Church & Community Work at First Church.]
|
How to Support Families Living in Poverty Workshop
Sunday, September 21 |12:15 - 1:30 PM | Cove
Lunch will be served | RSVP by September 18
This will be an especially helpful training for those who would like to become involved in ministry opportunities that reach out to the poor and hungry in our community. Come hear and learn from Joni Halpern, former Director of the Supportive Parents Information Network, as she shares her knowledge, insights, and perspectives on working with families and young children living in poverty.
Questions: contact Brenda Blake.
|
$100,000 Imagine No Malaria Gets Going
First Church joins this extraordinary effort by The United Methodist Church, along with United Nations Foundation, The Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria and the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation -- global leaders in the fight against malaria. Sponsor a fundraiser or donate directly. Either way, you'll put your faith into action to end preventable deaths by malaria in Africa through a program of Prevention, Treatment, Education and Communication. Find out more here... |
STUDY
|
|
Sundays beginning Sept. 7 | 11 AM - 12:30 PM | Sanctuary Meeting RoomTwice a year First Church offers a 13-week GriefShare program that is built on videos with experts discussing various aspects of the grief journey, followed by discussion. GriefShare is a friendly, caring group who will walk along side of you through one of life's most difficult experiences. You may join at any time. Contact Rev. Ken Licht, 619-297-4366 ext.111, if you are interested in joining our next GriefShare. |
Wednesdays, Sept. 10 - 24 | 6:45 PM | Linder Lounge
So it is with you. Since you are eager to have spiritual gifts, try to excel in gifts that build up the church. ~ 1 Corinthians 12:12
Interested in learning what your spiritual gifts are and how to apply them to help build up our church community? Pastor Jessica Strysko and Jan Newton will help you learn your spiritual gifts, your leadership style, your personal passions, and how to use all of these together to do the things in the church/life community! Register by Sunday, Sept. 7... |
Sundays, Sept. 14 to Nov. 16 | 9:30 - 10:30 AM & 11 AM - 12 PM
Linder Hall 2 | Free | Learn more and register here...This class is for any parent or caregiver of children up to ten years old. Whether all is going well, or you are faced by challenges, this course is for you.We will help equip you with tools needed for better parenting. Small group discussions will offer a time to discuss parenting issues with others. |
Launch Party/Dinner: Sunday Sept. 14 | 12:15-1:30 PM | Linder Hall 2
Sundays, Sept. 21 - Nov. 2 | 12:15 PM | Linder Hall 2
Come investigate Christianity in a non-threatening, fun environment where no question is too basic or too hostile. Alpha is a wonderful place to bring a friend who would benefit from a place to talk about faith and questions of life.
Brochures are available in the office and the patio table after worship.
More info and register here... |
Acolytes Recruitment
Sunday, Sept. 7 (plaza) and 14 (patio) | 9-9:30 & 10:30-11 AM
This is an once-a-year opportunity for children, 5th through 11th grade to become Acolytes. Training classes will occur in following weeks. Acolytes are expected to serve once every four to six weeks at their choice of dates and times. These leadership positions are expected to have expanded responsibilities in worship in coming months. It is an experience Acolytes carry with them for the rest of their lives. Info: Ron De Fields, 619-461-5457.
|
Kids First Parent Meeting
(Children Infant - 5th Grade)
Sunday, Sept. 14 | 9-9:30 AM or 10-10:30 AM | Linder Hall 2
You may drop off your child early in the Amphitheater for Sunday school before each of these meetings, and a Kids First Team member will be there. This is a great opportunity for parents to come and learn about the exciting new curriculum, events and a new electronic check-in system! The same material will be covered at each meeting. Questions? Please email Laura Schwarcz.
|
|
3rd and 4th Grade Bible Study Class
Sunday, Sept. 14 - October 12| 9:30 AM | Multipurpose Room
Calling all 3rd and 4th graders! Our annual six-week Bible Study class is coming soon. Register your child online today to be part of the class. Students will be presented their Bible in the 9:30 worship service on October 19. Questions: contact Laura Schwarcz. |
|
Parents Night Out and Pajama Rama for the Kids
Looking for a night out on the town! Bring your kids to the church for an evening that begins with a 20-minute family chapel time, after which you can leave your children under the awesome care of our Kid's First Team while you enjoy an evening out. Theme: Pajama Rama (Children come wearing your PJs)
Dinner: Breakfast - waffles and fruit. We'll watch movies, play games, and make crafts. |
COMMUNITY
|
America's Drug Epidemic: Our Families and City Public Forum
Saturday, September 20 | 10 - 11:30 AM | Linder Hall | RSVP
Earlier this year, I addressed the growing drug epidemic in San Diego as part of my sermon. Getting back to this, First Church, along with the City Club, Temple Emmanu-El and the YWCA, will host an important public forum with a panel consisting of San Diego County Sheriff Bill Gore, San Diego Police Chief Shelley Zimmerman and the U.S. Attorney Laura Duffy. In addition, Pastor Greg LaDue, will speak regarding the therapeutic possibilities for those seeking healing for themselves or other family members. After the presentations there will be a Q & A time. We especially encourage families with teens and children to join this event, as we hope to gain deeper understanding of this issue and learn how to better respond as a church to the needs of our families and our city. ~ Craig+
|
MUSIC
|
|
Quartet Nouveau Chamber Concert
Sunday September 21 | 7 PM | Sutherland Family Music Center
For their concert at First Church, Quartet Nouveau will perform Mozart's String Quartet No. 14 K387, Shostakovich's String Quartet No 5 in B flat Major and Mendelssohn's String Quartet No. 2 Op. 13. Come and enjoy an evening of top-notch chamber music in an intimate setting, sponsored by the Cultural Events Committee. A reception will follow the performance and donations will be taken at the door. Child care is available by calling the church office one week prior to the event at 619-297-4366. Learn more...
|
|
Join a Choir this Fall!
Our 2014-2015 Adult Choir is beginning! We invite the congregation and friends to join one or both of our Adult Choirs. Our Chancel Choir sings at all three Sanctuary worship services every week and our Contemporary Singers sing at the 9:30 and 11 AM Sanctuary worship services about once a month. No auditions required, although music reading ability is recommended. More...
Alternative rehearsal times for Chancel Choir - For those whose schedule prohibits them from Thursday evening rehearsals: Starting September 7, an alternative time to rehearse begins on Sundays from 8:15 - 9 AM.
|
Music/Worship Ministry Opportunity for Children's Church
The Music Ministry of First Church is looking for two persons who would be interested in a very short-term commitment (six weeks) involving the training of kindergarteners through 3rd graders in music and worship. A Children's Church program will be held in Trotter Chapel from mid-November through the end of Advent on Sunday mornings from 8:15-8:40 AM. This program will dovetail into Carol Choir for that same age range, which begins at 8:45 AM. A Cherub Choir for children ages 4 and 5 (pre-K), directed by Kathy Fait, will be held in the Children's Choir Room at the same time as Children's Church. Read more here...
|
SENIORS MINISTRY
|
Active Adults Lunch and Entertainment
Wednesday, Sept.10| 10 AM - 2:30 PM | Linder Hall
Come listen to Rev. George Rosemier, and Dr. Pam Ogdin-Rosemier perform contemporary Christian and Gospel music, with a theme on Heaven. On the lunch menu is taco salad, vegetables, dessert, and beverage for the price of $5. Call the church office (619-297-4366) to make your lunch reservation by 12 noon, September 8. Walkabouts this month are: Sept. 8 (the Zoo), Sept. 15 (Liberty Station), Sept. 22 (6th & Upas St.), Sept. 29 (Old Town).
|
Strong Today: No Falls Tomorrow
Thursday, September 25 |8:30 AM - 12:30 PM | Linder Hall | Free
This free event offers balance and wellness screenings, dynamic speakers, exhibitors, prizes, and much more. To register call 1-800-827-1008.
Presented by The San Diego Fall Prevention Task Force. See flyer...
|
NOTICES
|
Ralphs Rewards Card for Missions - By registering your Ralphs Rewards Card, Ralphs will contribute to our Missions ministries at First Church. You can register at www.ralphs.com, begin by selecting the "Create an Account" button and follow the prompts. Be sure to designate The First United Methodist Church of San Diego #82033 to receive the funds from your shopping. If you already participate, you must renew each year by registering at the same website. Sign-in and follow the prompts.
Memorial Garden representatives will be in the Garden this Sunday, Sept. 7, from 9-9:30 and 10:30-11 AM to provide information for niches, plaques, services, inurnments, engraving and costs. Meetings can also be arranged by appointment at 619-297-4366.
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.
"Milk Donors" needed for Loaves and Fishes Sunday food ministry. Can you commit to bring one half-gal. of milk to Linder Lounge each Sunday to help supplement the needs of our weekly food distribution to low income families and the elderly at Wesley UMC? Contact Brenda Blake. Small groups or other groups can participate. Tom Large explains the situation here.
McDonald's 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.
The Altar Flower Calendar has many openings for Sundays through December. 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
- SDSCS - Lecture:The Origin of Christian Anti-Semitism, October 6 & 13
School of Christian Studies
San Diego School of Christian Studiesoffers seminary-level theological education to laity. The School is designed for life-long learners who wish to deepen their faith as they broaden their knowledge. The School offers four to five classes per semester. They typically range from one-day seminars to classes that run one evening a week for two to five sessions. Classes are in Old and New Testament, church history, theology, Christian ethics, world religion and other topics. Learn more...
Fall 2014 Programs
RELIGIOUS STUDIES
The Origins of Christian Anti-Semitism
Mondays, October 6 and 13 6:45–8:15 PM—Linder LoungeSpeaker: Dr. Russell Fuller, University of San Diego Tuition: $10; students with valid ID free Learn more and to register...
Where is Pope Francis?
Wednesday, November 56:45–8:15 PM—Cove (Krause United Methodist Center) Speaker: Monsignor Dennis Mikulanis, Pastor, San Rafael Parish, Rancho Bernardo Tuition: $10; students with valid ID free Learn more and to register...
FINE ARTS
Lecture on Bach's Christmas Oratorio
Wednesday, November 19
6:45–8:15 PM—SanctuarySpeaker: Robert Plimpton, Resident Organist, First United Methodist Church of San Diego Tuition: Free Will Offering
Learn more...
We offer free childcare during our lectures!Please sign up online for childcare one week prior to the event... Wednesday night lectures - Make an evening of it!
Join us for our mid-week Vesper Communion service in the sanctuary at 5:30 PM (music for meditation at 5:15).
Then our Fellowship Dinner in Linder Hall is at 6 PM for $6. For dinner please RSVP in the church office (619-297-4366) no later than Monday same week.
COMING FEBRUARY 2015
Bishop Minerva Carcaño is coming to First Church to speak by invitation of the SDSCS. Do plan to attend!
All classes are held on the campus of First United Methodist Church, 2111 Camino del Rio South, San Diego 92108 (near I-8 and Texas Street). Directions...
Free childcare can be provided with reservation online or by calling the church office 619-297-4366 one week prior to the event.
- DivorceCare for kids and adults - New Support group, starting October 5
- Celebrating 50 Years of First Church in Mission Valley. Saturday Evening, November 22, 2014, A Crossroads Celebration! Watch for your invitation to arrive in the mail this October!
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.
|
MISSION OUTREACH THRIFT STORE | 3186 Adams Ave.
Open Monday to Saturday 9:30 AM - 4:30 PM
Bring your donations to church this Sunday, Sept. 7. There will be 2 receiving stations on the plaza to collect your donations.
 <<< Victorian Umbrella Hall Stand from the home of one the three sisters in Mission Hills. $799.
The Thrift Store lists items on Craig's List. To see the items, enter "Mission Outreach" in the search box on Craig's List. Proceeds from the Thrift Store support several local missions and the United Methodist Women. Last year we raised $34,000 for local missions.
|
|
San Diego, California, United States First United Methodist Church eNews "Vision 200 - A Crossroads Celebration" for Wednesday, 3 September 2014
No comments:
Post a Comment