First United Methodist Church eNews: Spiritual Practices for Life--Gifts for Thursday, 25 February 2016
This Sunday: Giving to God our gifts.
From Pastor Molly: With Our Gifts
I feel like it's an extra-special blessing that I get to be pastor of this church: over and above everything else, I take delight that you are also a pie-making church.
More than other foods, I believe the pie preaches an important sermon about God's gifts. A pie maker learns and perfects the making of the crust, but the beauty of the pie's filling comes almost entirely as a gift from God. I don't mean to devalue the baker's skill in adding ideal amounts of sugar, spice and butter, but I have found that the best qualities in fruit pies come from the flavor and quality of the fruit itself. That fruit's sweetness and rich flavor are then multiplied by being set into the crusts above and below, and by the baking.
God's gifts work in a similar way: the best stuff comes as a gift. By grace, we are given abilities and resources; our work is to add to the beauty of what has been given. We give back to God as we let those gifts become even more through us.
This week, as we consider how to serve Christ with our gifts, we are invited to pay attention to how we can use what we have been given for the work of God's love. When we do that, it's sweeter than pie.[Pastor Molly Vetter]
In Worship This Week
Sunday, February 28
Third Sunday of Lent: Gifts
Scripture: Isaiah 55:1-9
"With Our Gifts"
Molly Vetter, preachingScripture: Isaiah 55:1 “All you who are thirsty, come to the water!
You without money, come, buy, and eat!
Yes, come! Buy wine and milk
without money — it’s free!
2 Why spend money for what isn’t food,
your wages for what doesn’t satisfy?
Listen carefully to me, and you will eat well,
you will enjoy the fat of the land.
3 Open your ears, and come to me;
listen well, and you will live —
I will make an everlasting covenant with you,
the grace I assured David.
4 I have given him as a witness to the peoples,
a leader and lawgiver for the peoples.
5 You will summon a nation you do not know,
and a nation that doesn’t know you will run to you,
for the sake of Adonai your God,
the Holy One of Isra’el, who will glorify you.”
6 Seek Adonai while he is available,
call on him while he is still nearby.
7 Let the wicked person abandon his way
and the evil person his thoughts;
let him return to Adonai,
and he will have mercy on him;
let him return to our God,
for he will freely forgive.
8 “For my thoughts are not your thoughts,
and your ways are not my ways,” says Adonai.
9 “As high as the sky is above the earth
are my ways higher than your ways,
and my thoughts than your thoughts.
John Wesley's Notes-Commentary for Scripture: Isaiah 55:1-9
Verse 1
[1] Ho, every one that thirsteth, come ye to the waters, and he that hath no money; come ye, buy, and eat; yea, come, buy wine and milk without money and without price.
Thirsteth — For the grace of God and the blessings of the gospel. This thirst implies a vehement, and active, and restless desire after it.
No money — Those who are most worthless and wicked, if they do but thirst may be welcome.
Buy — Procure or receive that which is freely offered.
Wine and milk — All gospel-blessings; in particular, that peace and joy in the Holy Ghost, which are better than wine, and that love of God which nourishes the soul, as milk does the body.
Verse 2
[2] Wherefore do ye spend money for that which is not bread? and your labour for that which satisfieth not? hearken diligently unto me, and eat ye that which is good, and let your soul delight itself in fatness.
Money — All your time, and strength, and cost.
Not bread — For those things which can never nourish or satisfy you, such as worldly goods, or pleasures.
Eat ye — That which is truly and solidly, and everlastingly good.
In fatness — In this pleasant food of gospel-enjoyments.
Verse 3
[3] Incline your ear, and come unto me: hear, and your soul shall live; and I will make an everlasting covenant with you, even the sure mercies of David.
An everlasting covenant — That everlasting covenant of grace and peace which I made with Abraham, and his seed.
Of David — Even that covenant which was made first with Abraham, and then with David, concerning those glorious and sure blessings which God hath promised to his people, one and the chief of which was giving Christ to die for their sins. David here seems to be put for the son of David.
Verse 4
[4] Behold, I have given him for a witness to the people, a leader and commander to the people.
Behold — I have appointed, and will in due time actually give.
Him — The David last mentioned, even Christ.
A witness — To declare the will of God concerning the duty and salvation of men, to bear witness to truth, to confirm God's promises, and, among others, those which respect the calling of the Gentiles: to be a witness of both parties of that covenant made between God and men.
The people — To all people.
Verse 5
[5] Behold, thou shalt call a nation that thou knowest not, and nations that knew not thee shall run unto thee because of the LORD thy God, and for the Holy One of Israel; for he hath glorified thee.
Thou — Thou, O Messiah.
Call — To the knowledge of thyself.
Knewest not — With that special knowledge which implies approbation.
Because — Because the Lord shall by many tokens, manifest himself to be thy God, and thee to be his son and faithful servant.
Glorify thee — By confirming thy word with illustrious signs and miracles, and particularly by thy resurrection, and glorious ascension.
Verse 6
[6] Seek ye the LORD while he may be found, call ye upon him while he is near:
Seek — Labour to get the knowledge of God's will, and to obtain his grace and favour.
While — In this day of grace, while he offers mercy and reconciliation.
Near — Ready and desirous to receive you to mercy.
Verse 7
[7] Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts: and let him return unto the LORD, and he will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon.
Return — By sincere repentance, and faith.
Verse 8
[8] For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the LORD.
For — If any man injure you, especially if he do it greatly and frequently, you are slow and backward to forgive him. But I am ready to forgive all penitents, how many, and great, and numberless soever their sins be.
8:30am in Epworth Lounge10:30am in the Sanctuary
Anthem: "Revival in the Land" by Renee Morris
In the last days proclaimed by the prophet Joel
God's gonna pour His spirit on every soul
Well, the old shall dream, the young shall see
Everyone will be made free
There's gonna be a revival in the land.
There's gonna be a revival in the land
There's gonna be a revival in the land
(in the land.)
From the north, south, east and west
There's gonna be a revival in the land.
Whosoever will that calls on the name of Jesus
Whoever shall call on his name shall be saved
Well, the deaf shall hear, their gonna talk
The lame will pick up their bed and walk
There's gonna be a revival in the land
[X2] There's gonna be a revival in the land
There's gonna be a revival in the land
(in the land.)
From the north, south, east and west
There's gonna be a revival in the land.
Give me that old time religion
(old time religion)
From the north, south, east and west
Give me that old time religion in the land
(in the land)
There's gonna be a revival in the land
There's gonna be a revival in the land
(in the land)
From the north, south, east and west
There's gonna be a revival,
There's gonna be a revival,
There's gonna be a revival,
There's gonna be a revival in the land
In the land.
Listen to Sermons onlineVisit our Website
During Lent: Spiritual Practices
We invite you to take on spiritual practices during Lent. Using the five commitments of our church's membership vows, we are asking you to come up with five promises about how you will seek to live out your faith. We encourage you to form a small group of others to Check In with along the way. Read more here.
News From Our Members
"Last Sunday I joined many of you to help support our youth with their project to help Church World Service with their work to aid European Refugees. They served baked potatoes, chili and beans, toppings and many other goodies while requesting donations. The fellowship was great as we looked around the room but I was sitting with Fred and his daughter Izzy, who, I found out loves show business. When we started out she found out that I had played in pit orchestras for over fifty..."
Thursday, February 25, 2016 by Bob Peterson
Last Sunday I joined many of you to help support our youth with their project to help Church World Service with their work to aid European Refugees. They served baked potatoes, chili and beans, toppings and many other goodies while requesting donations. The fellowship was great as we looked around the room but I was sitting with Fred and his daughter Izzy, who, I found out loves show business. When we started out she found out that I had played in pit orchestras for over fifty musicals and operettas so we had something in common. I learned that Fred and his wife have a Yoga business in Manhattan Beach and other surprises. We need to know more about each other. Our Church is full of special people with special interests. At our up-coming Potluck Sunday, March 13th you will have another chance to get to know a fellow church member.
The above comment applies also to the UMW (United Methodist Women) Rummage and Bake Sale Friday and Saturday, March 4 and 5. Not only can you shop, you can visit others of your church, especially at the Friday lunch arranged by Naomi Circle, a long tradition.
If you wondered who was playing the beautifully improvised guitar music during Communion last Sunday, He is Gaku Murata of our band whose improvisations on familiar church music themes are magnificent. If you like them, tell Music Director Jim Raycroft or Gatu I think they are great.
Great news. Our Sunday Morning 9:30 AM Bible Class as led by Helen Stockwell has been growing in membership. You will be welcome at the May Day Parlor every week. Try it.
Read more here
Introducing our New Lay Leader:
Audrey Ahrens
We are so pleased to introduce Audrey Ahrens to you as our new Lay Leader (though you probably already know her!) Audrey has been active in our church for most of her life. Currently a Junior at Mira Costa High School, she has been a part of our congregation for as long as she can remember; except for the few years that her family lived in Australia, this has been her church home.
She is active as a volunteer helping teach our Preschool Sunday School, as a dishwasher for Shared Bread, and in a lot of other ways. You know her family, too—she is the eldest child of Chad and Aura Ahrens; her sister Brigitte and brother Brent are active in our congregation, as well.
One of her favorite ways to pray is with the Lord’s Prayer, and she also likes the spiritual reflection practice of examining your day, which she learned from Stephen in our youth program. It’s easy to see the way she is seeking to follow Christ, as she serves others with grace and joy.
While it may seem an unconventional choice to nominate a high school student as Lay Leader, we think she’s very well suited to the job. The most important part of the work of this responsibility is the same as the one all members share: to live a life of faith and to the further the mission of the church in making disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world. The Lay Leader is a primary representative of all church members, encouraging us all in our discipleship and growth. Audrey will help represent us in the community, and remind us of the common mission we are called to live.
Audrey joins a fantastic team of church leaders in this congregation. We are especially glad that she will get to serve alongside Nina Dooley, Church Council Chair, and Nancy Colwell, Chair of our Staff-Parish Relations Committee. We trust you will help welcome her into this role, and be ready for the gifts she will bring to the ministry of the church!
Read Columns from our former Lay Leader, Johnna Kosnoff, here!
Coming at Church
Our United Methodist Women's Rummage Sale is coming!
Friday, March 4: 9am-4pm
Saturday, March 5: 9am - 2pm
Saturday Special: $5 per bag and new extended hours!
Opportunities to help:
Set up and sorting all day Thursday, March 3
After-sale pack up/clean up Saturday, March 5 at 2pm
BAKED GOOD donations for Naomi's Cafe may be delivered to church Thursday (3/3), 9am-4pm or Friday(3/4) by 9am
Parents Night Out: This Spring!
Families are invited to join us for Parents' Night out on Friday, February 26, from 5:30-8:30. Next dates: March 18, April 23 May 20
RSVP to children@beachfaith.com asap to make sure there's a spot for your family!
Sponsored by Children and Family Ministries.
Changes: Children & Family Ministries
We are looking for a new Director of Children and Family Ministries--we encourage you to check out our job posting, and pass it along to people you know of who might apply!
Thank you to the many people who have stepped up as volunteers with our Sunday School! We will have a volunteer meeting on Sunday, March 6 at 9:30am in Epworth Lounge. New volunteers are welcome. Questions? Contact Adriana
Potato Bar raised $363.08!
Inspired by the stories of Syrian refugees, the youth group hosted a Potato Bar Lunch this past Sunday, raising funds for Church World Service and their work with refugees in Europe. In our youth group, "we believe in service as a group"
Thanks to your help and generosity, we raised $363.08 for these refugees. "I was a stranger, and you welcomed me."
Support our Children's Easter Egg Hunt by filling some eggs for them. Empty eggs will be available to pick up starting this Sunday, February 28--please take a bag and fill them with small treats (stickers, etc) or candy (please, no nuts or chocolate). Bring them to church by March 20!
You are invited to make a donation to purchase an Easter lily in honor or memory of someone. The donation forms will be available at church starting this Sunday, February 28.
Palm Sunday: Procession at 10am
Join us for worship at 8:30 & 10:30, plus a special palm procession--with donkey!--at 10am. The children will sing, too. After worship, stay for tacos (to raise money for the Baja mission trip) and a petting zoo.
Good Friday worship at 7:30pm
Share in a moving worship experience, as we meditate on the 7 last words of Christ. Featuring our Choir, singing Dale Wood's "Service of Darkness," plus candlelight, prayer and more.
Celebrate Easter with Us!
Worship at 8:30 & 10:30am, plus an Easter Egg Hunt at 10am on the lawn! Or join us at 6:30am for a Sunrise Service on Torrance Beach. Our 10:30 service includes a brass ensemble and more!
Potluck Lunches this Spring!
We invite you to join your church family for a potluck after 10:30 worship on the several Sundays this spring: March 13, April 3, May 1 & June 5. Bring a dish to share - enjoy the fellowship!
Confirmation Class: Middle School
All young people in grades 6-8 are invited to participate in our church Confirmation Class this Spring.
Confirmation is an important part of how we prepare young people in faith; it is an opportunity for us to teach about our faith, and a way for young people to claim a faith of their own. For more info, contact Stephen.
Book Club: Our next book is "I Am Malala: the Girl Who Stood Up for Education and Was Shot by the Taliban."Author Malala Yousafzai was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for her act of defiance. Join us March 10 at 7pm in May Day Parlor. More info online; email Ann or Laura.
We had a great Annual Church Charge Conference in January; thanks to those who attended, and to everyone who shares in the ministries of our church. We have so much to celebrate about the good work we are able to do, together.
You can pick up a packet of our Conference Reports in the office.
Save the Date: Vacation Bible School 2016 will be in AUGUST
We're planning to shake up our summer schedule next year, and move Vacation Bible School to August in 2016!
We've got in on our church calendar for August 1-5, and hope you can plan to join us. We'll be looking for young surfers to attend, and volunteers of all ages.
Baja Trip 2016: July 16-23
Youth and others from the church can sign up now to be a part of Baja Mission 2016, as we return to Mexico for another week this summer.
Now is the time to think about whether you can join us this summer--the trip will be July 16-23, and is open to people of all ages.
Visit our website for more information!
Announcements
Men's Breakfast: Our next breakfast is Monday, March 7, at 7AM. Coco's Restaurant, 18120 Hawthorne Blvd. (Hawthorne and 182nd). All men of the church and their friends are welcome to join us for fellowship.
20/30 group: This young adult group is a casual gathering of people in their 20's and 30's looking to connect with other young adults who attend the same church. Contact Amanda Kuczun for info on upcoming events!
Prayer Quilt Ministry: Know someone in need of prayer? You can sponsor a free prayer quilt for them. Next Quilt Workshop: Friday, March 18, 10am-noon. This meeting will include a quilt backing/binding tutorial and we will work on various projects. Through April we will meet on the Third Friday of each Month! More information is online.
Meals and More: Did you know that we have a ministry that organizes meals and other assistance for church folks in times of need? In the past, we've helped arrange rides to medical appointments, meals for people recovering from surgery, and more. Leila Grantz coordinates this ministry, using online sign-up tools. If you want to be a part of the group that she emails when there is an opportunity to help, or if you know someone who's in need of a little help, please contact the church office or Leila.
Mary Circle: We will gather at the home of Cristine Wolf for our annual Oscar party on Sunday, February 28 at 3:00PM.
Lost & Found: Please take a look at our Lost & Found table on Sunday morning. We have a nice collection of clothing, coffee travel mugs, toys and more. All unclaimed items will be donated to the rummage sale NEXT WEEK.
Gary Bonner Singers in Concert: Sunday, February 28 at 6:00pm. New LIfe Community Church, 500 W. 119th Street, Hawthorne 90250
This Week: Children, Youth & Adults
Nursery (6 weeks+):
The Nursery is open during both services, for ages 6 weeks to 6 yrs old. Located right off of the parking lot across from Epworth Lounge. Any questions email the Nursery Coordinator: Adriana Hwang
Children's Ministry (age 3 - 3rd Grade & Church R Us: grades 4-5):
10:30am Sunday School: Sunday's Bible Story:"God Provides" (Isaiah 55:1-9) There was nothing fancy about Isaiah, but he spoke for God. Isaiah delivered messages from God to God’s people. He reminded people that God would provide for them.
Church R Us (Special Class for Grades 4 & 5):
10:30am: CRU meets above the Nursery! Sunday's Lesson: "God Provides" (Isaiah 55:1-9) There was nothing fancy about Isaiah, but he spoke for God. Isaiah delivered messages from God to God’s people. He reminded people that God would provide for them.
Youth Ministry (6th-12th grade):
-Yes! Middle school Sunday School this week!
-Youth Group? YES there is a DANCE from 3-5pm (Sunday, Feb 28th).
- Remember, we are helping Saturday March 5th at the Rummage Sale and getting ice cream afterwards (Mar 5th, 12-4pm)! The Rummage Sale is an important fundraiser for lots of stuff, so it's cool to be part of what the UMW is doing. "We believe in service as a group" because "the darkness has not overcome [the light]." UMW is standing up against darkness!
Adult Sunday School: Bible Study and Discussion in May Day Parlor. Sunday mornings from 9:30-10:15am. Led by Helen Stockwell. (Feb 28 will meet in Epworth Lounge)
Thursday Pastor's Bible Study:
Thursday mornings from 11:00-noon, in May Day Parlor. Led by Pastor Molly.
United Methodist News & Events
Our congregation is a part of the El Tordondo Mission Area, in the West District of theCalifornia-Pacific Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church.
Bishop Carcaño to Preach at National Cathedral Sunday
This Sunday, February 28, at 8:15am, Bishop Minerva G. Carcaño will be the guest preacher at the Washington National Cathedral for its Holy Eucharist Service.
The service is expected to be live broadcast online.
Watch the broadcast here
Call to Prayer: Fiji
The California-Pacific Conference is called to prayer for Fiji after a cyclone has killed 29 people and has raised the potential for outbreaks of Zika and Dengue viruses.
Bishop Minerva G. Carcaño has conveyed prayers of encouragement to General Board of Global Ministries Missionary family the Neal's (Wes, Jerusha, Mercy and Josiah), of which Rev. Wesley Neal is a member of the California-Pacific Conference, who have been serving in Fiji since 2014.
Just recently, they sent an update on the on-the-ground conditions. Read the letter here.
General Conference 2016
The United Methodist Church’s top legislative body will meet in Portland, Oregon on May 10-20, 2016.
General Conference is the top policy-making body of The United Methodist Church which meets once every four years. The conference can revise church law, as well as adopt resolutions on current moral, social, public policy and economic issues. It also approves plans and budgets for church-wide programs.Read more.
Pastor Molly will attend as a Reserve Delegate for our Annual Conference.
We invite you to join with others in praying for the church before and during this event.
Ongoing Ministries
Free Meal on Wednesday Nights
Offering food and friendship to those in need, every Wednesday night since 1992. More info here.
Thanks for All the Desserts for Shared Bread!
Our thanks to everyone who has pitched in to help provide desserts for Shared Bread, after we lost our regular donor. Your response has been really amazing: not only have we had plenty each week, but our freezer's full, too!
So, you can take a break from the baking for now. We'll ask for help again, soon!
Choir & Our Music Ministry
Join our choir and lend your voice to help us worship God together. Choir rehearses most Wednesday nights, from 7:30-9pm. We are always looking for instrumentalists and musical guests, too. Contact Jim Raycroft for more info.
Corazon "Super Build"
Saturday, April 16: A Corazon house build, involving several churches and volunteer groups working to make a difference in the lives of many. We hope you will consider participating in this outreach opportunity. Email George or Peggy Mercer for more info.
Tell Us About Yourself...
Please take a moment to tell us about your skills and interests through our online questionnaire.
Do You Know Pro Tools or Logic
The Music Department is looking for someone who knows ProTools, Logic, or comparable program for recording and mixing worship service audio.
Contact Jim Raycroft.
We have many spots to fill for liturgists on Sunday mornings. The following link will take you the sign up. Please check it out.
Sunday Worship Liturgist Sign Up
Parking Reminder: If you are able, we encourage you to park at the Wells Fargo bank on Sunday mornings, and walk across the street, reserving the parking lot for those with mobility challenges or for new visitors. We also have a bike rack on the patio. Thanks for your consideration.
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Redondo Beach, California, United States First United Methodist Church eNews: Spiritual Practices for Life--Presence (and baked potatoes) for Thursday, 18 February 2016
This Sunday: Giving to God our presence.
Also, a Baked Potato Bar Lunch to raise funds for Syrian refugees.
From Pastor Molly: With our Presence
Sometimes, simply showing up for one another is a truly beautiful gift.
I love the way our church people have built habits of showing up: in hospital waiting rooms and grief-filled homes, at school concerts and basketball games, to celebrate and honor. We come with casseroles and via notes in the mail. This is one of the great gifts of church community: we are present for one another. That presence makes all the difference.
One of the commitments in our membership vows is to support the work of the church with our presence. And while showing up for worship is a part of this, it's much deeper than a sense of obligation about coming to church each week. (Though I think that's an excellent practice...) The invitation to live out our faith with our presence is an invitation to show up for one another. It's only when we are present that we can let ourselves be built into the kind of community that really sustains us.
I invite you to think about how you can love God with your presence this Lent. Perhaps there's someone whose presence you've been missing at church, who you could reach out to, letting them know that you miss them. Or perhaps it's a good time for you to make a point to be present yourself, at worship or somewhere meaningful in someone else's life. Choose to be show up for a cause you believe in, for a friend who's in need, or for a young person who you care about.
Your presence is a gift.[Pastor Molly Vetter]
In Worship This Week
Sunday, February 21
First Sunday of Lent: Presence
Scripture: Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18
"With Our Presence"
Molly Vetter, preachingScripture: Genesis 15:1 Some time later the word of Adonai came to Avram in a vision: “Don’t be afraid, Avram. I am your protector; your reward will be very great.” 2 Avram replied, “Adonai, God, what good will your gifts be to me if I continue childless; and Eli‘ezer from Dammesek inherits my possessions? 3 You haven’t given me a child,” Avram continued, “so someone born in my house will be my heir.” 4 But the word of Adonai came to him: “This man will not be your heir. No, your heir will be a child from your own body.” 5 Then he brought him outside and said, “Look up at the sky, and count the stars — if you can count them! Your descendants will be that many!” 6 He believed in Adonai, and he credited it to him as righteousness.
Introducing our New Lay Leader:
Audrey Ahrens
We are so pleased to introduce Audrey Ahrens to you as our new Lay Leader (though you probably already know her!) Audrey has been active in our church for most of her life. Currently a Junior at Mira Costa High School, she has been a part of our congregation for as long as she can remember; except for the few years that her family lived in Australia, this has been her church home.
She is active as a volunteer helping teach our Preschool Sunday School, as a dishwasher for Shared Bread, and in a lot of other ways. You know her family, too—she is the eldest child of Chad and Aura Ahrens; her sister Brigitte and brother Brent are active in our congregation, as well.
One of her favorite ways to pray is with the Lord’s Prayer, and she also likes the spiritual reflection practice of examining your day, which she learned from Stephen in our youth program. It’s easy to see the way she is seeking to follow Christ, as she serves others with grace and joy.
While it may seem an unconventional choice to nominate a high school student as Lay Leader, we think she’s very well suited to the job. The most important part of the work of this responsibility is the same as the one all members share: to live a life of faith and to the further the mission of the church in making disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world. The Lay Leader is a primary representative of all church members, encouraging us all in our discipleship and growth. Audrey will help represent us in the community, and remind us of the common mission we are called to live.
Audrey joins a fantastic team of church leaders in this congregation. We are especially glad that she will get to serve alongside Nina Dooley, Church Council Chair, and Nancy Colwell, Chair of our Staff-Parish Relations Committee. We trust you will help welcome her into this role, and be ready for the gifts she will bring to the ministry of the church!
Read Columns from our former Lay Leader, Johnna Kosnoff, here!
Coming at Church
Our United Methodist Women's Rummage Sale is coming!
Friday, March 4: 9am-4pm
Saturday, March 5: 9am - 2pm
Saturday Special: $5 per bag and new extended hours!
Opportunities to help:
Set up and sorting all day Thursday, March 3
After-sale pack up/clean up Saturday, March 5 at 2pm
BAKED GOOD donations for Naomi's Cafe may be delivered to church Thursday (3/3), 9am-4pm or Friday(3/4) by 9am
Parents Night Out: This Spring!
Families are invited to join us for Parents' Night out on Friday, February 26, from 5:30-8:30. Next dates: March 18, April 23 May 20
RSVP to children@beachfaith.com asap to make sure there's a spot for your family!
Sponsored by Children and Family Ministries.
Changes: Children & Family Ministries
We are looking for a new Director of Children and Family Ministries--we encourage you to check out our job posting, and pass it along to people you know of who might apply!
Thank you to the many people who have stepped up as volunteers with our Sunday School! We will have a volunteer meeting on Sunday, March 6 at 9:30am in Epworth Lounge. New volunteers are welcome. Questions? Contact Adriana
Potato Bar raised $363.08!
Inspired by the stories of Syrian refugees, the youth group hosted a Potato Bar Lunch this past Sunday, raising funds for Church World Service and their work with refugees in Europe. In our youth group, "we believe in service as a group"
Thanks to your help and generosity, we raised $363.08 for these refugees. "I was a stranger, and you welcomed me."
Support our Children's Easter Egg Hunt by filling some eggs for them. Empty eggs will be available to pick up starting this Sunday, February 28--please take a bag and fill them with small treats (stickers, etc) or candy (please, no nuts or chocolate). Bring them to church by March 20!
You are invited to make a donation to purchase an Easter lily in honor or memory of someone. The donation forms will be available at church starting this Sunday, February 28.
Palm Sunday: Procession at 10am
Join us for worship at 8:30 & 10:30, plus a special palm procession--with donkey!--at 10am. The children will sing, too. After worship, stay for tacos (to raise money for the Baja mission trip) and a petting zoo.
Good Friday worship at 7:30pm
Share in a moving worship experience, as we meditate on the 7 last words of Christ. Featuring our Choir, singing Dale Wood's "Service of Darkness," plus candlelight, prayer and more.
Celebrate Easter with Us!
Worship at 8:30 & 10:30am, plus an Easter Egg Hunt at 10am on the lawn! Or join us at 6:30am for a Sunrise Service on Torrance Beach. Our 10:30 service includes a brass ensemble and more!
Potluck Lunches this Spring!
We invite you to join your church family for a potluck after 10:30 worship on the several Sundays this spring: March 13, April 3, May 1 & June 5. Bring a dish to share - enjoy the fellowship!
Confirmation Class: Middle School
All young people in grades 6-8 are invited to participate in our church Confirmation Class this Spring.
Confirmation is an important part of how we prepare young people in faith; it is an opportunity for us to teach about our faith, and a way for young people to claim a faith of their own. For more info, contact Stephen.
Book Club: Our next book is "I Am Malala: the Girl Who Stood Up for Education and Was Shot by the Taliban."Author Malala Yousafzai was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for her act of defiance. Join us March 10 at 7pm in May Day Parlor. More info online; email Ann or Laura.
We had a great Annual Church Charge Conference in January; thanks to those who attended, and to everyone who shares in the ministries of our church. We have so much to celebrate about the good work we are able to do, together.
You can pick up a packet of our Conference Reports in the office.
Save the Date: Vacation Bible School 2016 will be in AUGUST
We're planning to shake up our summer schedule next year, and move Vacation Bible School to August in 2016!
We've got in on our church calendar for August 1-5, and hope you can plan to join us. We'll be looking for young surfers to attend, and volunteers of all ages.
Baja Trip 2016: July 16-23
Youth and others from the church can sign up now to be a part of Baja Mission 2016, as we return to Mexico for another week this summer.
Now is the time to think about whether you can join us this summer--the trip will be July 16-23, and is open to people of all ages.
Visit our website for more information!
Announcements
Men's Breakfast: Our next breakfast is Monday, March 7, at 7AM. Coco's Restaurant, 18120 Hawthorne Blvd. (Hawthorne and 182nd). All men of the church and their friends are welcome to join us for fellowship.
20/30 group: This young adult group is a casual gathering of people in their 20's and 30's looking to connect with other young adults who attend the same church. Contact Amanda Kuczun for info on upcoming events!
Prayer Quilt Ministry: Know someone in need of prayer? You can sponsor a free prayer quilt for them. Next Quilt Workshop: Friday, March 18, 10am-noon. This meeting will include a quilt backing/binding tutorial and we will work on various projects. Through April we will meet on the Third Friday of each Month! More information is online.
Meals and More: Did you know that we have a ministry that organizes meals and other assistance for church folks in times of need? In the past, we've helped arrange rides to medical appointments, meals for people recovering from surgery, and more. Leila Grantz coordinates this ministry, using online sign-up tools. If you want to be a part of the group that she emails when there is an opportunity to help, or if you know someone who's in need of a little help, please contact the church office or Leila.
Mary Circle: We will gather at the home of Cristine Wolf for our annual Oscar party on Sunday, February 28 at 3:00PM.
Lost & Found: Please take a look at our Lost & Found table on Sunday morning. We have a nice collection of clothing, coffee travel mugs, toys and more. All unclaimed items will be donated to the rummage sale NEXT WEEK.
Gary Bonner Singers in Concert: Sunday, February 28 at 6:00pm. New LIfe Community Church, 500 W. 119th Street, Hawthorne 90250
This Week: Children, Youth & Adults
Nursery (6 weeks+):
The Nursery is open during both services, for ages 6 weeks to 6 yrs old. Located right off of the parking lot across from Epworth Lounge. Any questions email the Nursery Coordinator: Adriana Hwang
Children's Ministry (age 3 - 3rd Grade & Church R Us: grades 4-5):
10:30am Sunday School: Sunday's Bible Story:"God Provides" (Isaiah 55:1-9) There was nothing fancy about Isaiah, but he spoke for God. Isaiah delivered messages from God to God’s people. He reminded people that God would provide for them.
Church R Us (Special Class for Grades 4 & 5):
10:30am: CRU meets above the Nursery! Sunday's Lesson: "God Provides" (Isaiah 55:1-9) There was nothing fancy about Isaiah, but he spoke for God. Isaiah delivered messages from God to God’s people. He reminded people that God would provide for them.
Youth Ministry (6th-12th grade):
-Yes! Middle school Sunday School this week!
-Youth Group? YES there is a DANCE from 3-5pm (Sunday, Feb 28th).
- Remember, we are helping Saturday March 5th at the Rummage Sale and getting ice cream afterwards (Mar 5th, 12-4pm)! The Rummage Sale is an important fundraiser for lots of stuff, so it's cool to be part of what the UMW is doing. "We believe in service as a group" because "the darkness has not overcome [the light]." UMW is standing up against darkness!
Adult Sunday School: Bible Study and Discussion in May Day Parlor. Sunday mornings from 9:30-10:15am. Led by Helen Stockwell. (Feb 28 will meet in Epworth Lounge)
Thursday Pastor's Bible Study:
Thursday mornings from 11:00-noon, in May Day Parlor. Led by Pastor Molly.
United Methodist News & Events
Our congregation is a part of the El Tordondo Mission Area, in the West District of theCalifornia-Pacific Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church.
Bishop Carcaño to Preach at National Cathedral Sunday
This Sunday, February 28, at 8:15am, Bishop Minerva G. Carcaño will be the guest preacher at the Washington National Cathedral for its Holy Eucharist Service.
The service is expected to be live broadcast online.
Watch the broadcast here
Call to Prayer: Fiji
The California-Pacific Conference is called to prayer for Fiji after a cyclone has killed 29 people and has raised the potential for outbreaks of Zika and Dengue viruses.
Bishop Minerva G. Carcaño has conveyed prayers of encouragement to General Board of Global Ministries Missionary family the Neal's (Wes, Jerusha, Mercy and Josiah), of which Rev. Wesley Neal is a member of the California-Pacific Conference, who have been serving in Fiji since 2014.
Just recently, they sent an update on the on-the-ground conditions. Read the letter here.
General Conference 2016
The United Methodist Church’s top legislative body will meet in Portland, Oregon on May 10-20, 2016.
General Conference is the top policy-making body of The United Methodist Church which meets once every four years. The conference can revise church law, as well as adopt resolutions on current moral, social, public policy and economic issues. It also approves plans and budgets for church-wide programs.Read more.
Pastor Molly will attend as a Reserve Delegate for our Annual Conference.
We invite you to join with others in praying for the church before and during this event.
Ongoing Ministries
Free Meal on Wednesday Nights
Offering food and friendship to those in need, every Wednesday night since 1992. More info here.
Thanks for All the Desserts for Shared Bread!
Our thanks to everyone who has pitched in to help provide desserts for Shared Bread, after we lost our regular donor. Your response has been really amazing: not only have we had plenty each week, but our freezer's full, too!
So, you can take a break from the baking for now. We'll ask for help again, soon!
Choir & Our Music Ministry
Join our choir and lend your voice to help us worship God together. Choir rehearses most Wednesday nights, from 7:30-9pm. We are always looking for instrumentalists and musical guests, too. Contact Jim Raycroft for more info.
Corazon "Super Build"
Saturday, April 16: A Corazon house build, involving several churches and volunteer groups working to make a difference in the lives of many. We hope you will consider participating in this outreach opportunity. Email George or Peggy Mercer for more info.
Tell Us About Yourself...
Please take a moment to tell us about your skills and interests through our online questionnaire.
Do You Know Pro Tools or Logic
The Music Department is looking for someone who knows ProTools, Logic, or comparable program for recording and mixing worship service audio.
Contact Jim Raycroft.
We have many spots to fill for liturgists on Sunday mornings. The following link will take you the sign up. Please check it out.
Sunday Worship Liturgist Sign Up
Parking Reminder: If you are able, we encourage you to park at the Wells Fargo bank on Sunday mornings, and walk across the street, reserving the parking lot for those with mobility challenges or for new visitors. We also have a bike rack on the patio. Thanks for your consideration.
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Redondo Beach, California, United States First United Methodist Church eNews: Spiritual Practices for Life--Presence (and baked potatoes) for Thursday, 18 February 2016
This Sunday: Giving to God our presence.
Also, a Baked Potato Bar Lunch to raise funds for Syrian refugees.
From Pastor Molly: With our Presence
Sometimes, simply showing up for one another is a truly beautiful gift.
I love the way our church people have built habits of showing up: in hospital waiting rooms and grief-filled homes, at school concerts and basketball games, to celebrate and honor. We come with casseroles and via notes in the mail. This is one of the great gifts of church community: we are present for one another. That presence makes all the difference.
One of the commitments in our membership vows is to support the work of the church with our presence. And while showing up for worship is a part of this, it's much deeper than a sense of obligation about coming to church each week. (Though I think that's an excellent practice...) The invitation to live out our faith with our presence is an invitation to show up for one another. It's only when we are present that we can let ourselves be built into the kind of community that really sustains us.
I invite you to think about how you can love God with your presence this Lent. Perhaps there's someone whose presence you've been missing at church, who you could reach out to, letting them know that you miss them. Or perhaps it's a good time for you to make a point to be present yourself, at worship or somewhere meaningful in someone else's life. Choose to be show up for a cause you believe in, for a friend who's in need, or for a young person who you care about.
Your presence is a gift.[Pastor Molly Vetter]
In Worship This Week
Sunday, February 21
First Sunday of Lent: Presence
Scripture: Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18
"With Our Presence"
Molly Vetter, preachingScripture: Genesis 15:1 Some time later the word of Adonai came to Avram in a vision: “Don’t be afraid, Avram. I am your protector; your reward will be very great.” 2 Avram replied, “Adonai, God, what good will your gifts be to me if I continue childless; and Eli‘ezer from Dammesek inherits my possessions? 3 You haven’t given me a child,” Avram continued, “so someone born in my house will be my heir.” 4 But the word of Adonai came to him: “This man will not be your heir. No, your heir will be a child from your own body.” 5 Then he brought him outside and said, “Look up at the sky, and count the stars — if you can count them! Your descendants will be that many!” 6 He believed in Adonai, and he credited it to him as righteousness.
(vi) 7 Then he said to him, “I am Adonai, who brought you out from Ur-Kasdim to give you this land as your possession.” 8 He replied, “Adonai, God, how am I to know that I will possess it?” 9 He answered him, “Bring me a three-year-old cow, a three-year-old female goat, a three-year-old ram, a dove and a young pigeon.” 10 He brought him all these, cut the animals in two and placed the pieces opposite each other; but he didn’t cut the birds in half. 11 Birds of prey swooped down on the carcasses, but Avram drove them away.
12 As the sun was about to set, a deep sleep fell on Avram; horror and great darkness came over him.
17 After the sun had set and there was thick darkness, a smoking fire pot and a flaming torch appeared, which passed between these animal parts. 18 That day Adonai made a covenant with Avram: “I have given this land to your descendants — from the Vadi of Egypt to the great river, the Euphrates River —
John Wesley's Notes-Commentary for Scripture: Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18
Verse 1
[1] After these things the word of the LORD came unto Abram in a vision, saying, Fear not, Abram: I am thy shield, and thy exceeding great reward.
After these things — (1.) After that act of generous charity which Abram had done, in rescuing his neighbours, God made him this gracious visit. (2.) After that victory which he had obtained over four kings; lest Abram should be too much elevated with that, God comes to tell him he had better things in store for him.
The word of the Lord came unto Abram — That is, God manifested himself to Abram, in a vision - Which supposeth Abram awake, and some sensible token of the presence of the divine glory, saying, Fear not Abram - Abram might fear lest the four kings he had routed, should rally and fall upon him. No, saith God, fear not: fear not their revenge, nor thy neighbour's envy; I will take care of thee.
I am thy shield — Or, emphatically, I am a shield to thee, present with thee, actually defending thee. The consideration of this, that God himself is, a shield to his people, to secure them from all destructive evils, a shield ready to them, and a shield round about them, should silence all perplexing fears.
And thy exceeding great reward — Not only thy rewarder, but thy reward. God himself is the felicity of holy souls; He is the portion of their inheritance, and their cup.
Verse 3
[3] And Abram said, Behold, to me thou hast given no seed: and, lo, one born in my house is mine heir.
Behold to me thou hast given no seed — Not only no son, but no seed. If he had had a daughter, from her the promised Messias might have come, who was to be the Seed of the Woman; but he had neither son nor daughter.
Verse 5
[5] And he brought him forth abroad, and said, Look now toward heaven, and tell the stars, if thou be able to number them: and he said unto him, So shall thy seed be.
And he brought him forth — It seems, early in the morning, and said, look now toward heaven, and tell the stars: so shall thy seed be - 1. So innumerable, for so the stars seem to a common eye. Abram feared he should have no child at all, but God tells him his descendents should be so many as not to be numbered. 2. So illustrious, as the stars of heaven for splendour; for to them pertained the glory, Romans 9:4. Abram's seed according to the flesh were like the dust of the earth, Genesis 13:16, but his spiritual seed are like the stars of heaven.
Verse 6
[6] And he believed in the LORD; and he counted it to him for righteousness.
And he believed in the Lord — That is, believed the truth of that promise which God had now made him, resting upon the power, and faithfulness of him that made it: see how the apostle magnifies this faith of Abram, and makes it a standing example, Romans 4:19-21. He was not weak in faith; he staggered not at the promise: he was strong in faith; he was fully persuaded. The Lord work such a faith in every one of us.
And he counted it to him for righteousness — That is, upon the score of this he was accepted of God, and, by faith he obtained witness that he was righteous, Hebrews 11:4. This is urged in the New Testament to prove, that we are justified by faith without the works of the law, Romans 4:3; Galatians 3:6, for Abram was so justified, while he was yet uncircumcised. If Abram, that was so rich in good works, was not justified by them, but by his faith, much less can we. This faith, which was imputed to Abram for righteousness, had newly struggled with unbelief, Genesis 15:2, and coming off, conqueror, it was thus crowned, thus honoured.
Verse 7
[7] And he said unto him, I am the LORD that brought thee out of Ur of the Chaldees, to give thee this land to inherit it.
I am the lord that brought thee out of Ur of the Chaldees — Out of the fire of the Chaldees, so some: that is, from their idolatries; for the Chaldeans worshipped the fire. Or, from their persecutions. The Jewish writers have a tradition, that Abram was cast into a fiery furnace for refusing to worship idols, and was miraculously delivered. It is rather a place of that name. Thence God brought him by an effectual call, brought him by a gracious violence; snatched him as a brand out of the burning. Observe how God speaks of it as that which he gloried in.
I am the Lord that brought thee out — He glories in it as an act both of power and grace.
To give thee this land to inherit it — Not only to possess it, but to possess it as an inheritance, which is the surest title. The providence of God hath secret, but gracious designs in all its various dispensations: we cannot conceive the projects of providence, 'till the event shews what it was driving at.
Verse 8
[8] And he said, Lord GOD, whereby shall I know that I shall inherit it?
Whereby shall I know that I shall inherit it? — This did not proceed from distrust of God's power or promise, but he desired this, 1. For the strengthening of his own faith. He believed, Genesis 15:6, but here he prays, Lord help me against my unbelief, Now, he believed, but he desired a sign, to be treasured up against an hour of temptation. 2. For the ratifying of the promise to his posterity, that they also might believe it.
Verse 9
[9] And he said unto him, Take me an heifer of three years old, and a she goat of three years old, and a ram of three years old, and a turtledove, and a young pigeon.
Take me an heifer — Perhaps Abram expected some sign from heaven, but God gives him a sign upon a sacrifice. Those that would receive the assurances of God's favour, must attend instituted ordinances, and expect to meet with God in them. Observe, 1. God appointed that each of the beasts used for his service should be three years old, because then they were at their full growth and strength. God must be served with the best we have. 2. We do not read that God gave Abram particular directions how to manage these, knowing that he was well versed in the custom of sacrifices. 3. Abram took as God appointed him, though as yet he knew not how these things should become a sign to him. He divided the beasts in the midst, according to the ceremony used in continuing covenants, Jeremiah 34:18,19, where it is said, they cut the calf in twain, and passed between the parts. 4. Abram, having prepared according to God's appointment, set himself to expect what sign God would give him by these.
Verse 12
[12] And when the sun was going down, a deep sleep fell upon Abram; and, lo, an horror of great darkness fell upon him.
And when the sun was going down — About the time of the evening oblation. Early in the morning, while the stars were yet to be seen, God had given him orders concerning the sacrifices, Genesis 15:5, and we may suppose it was at least his morning's work to prepare them, and set them in order; which when he had done, he abode by them praying and waiting 'till towards evening.
A deep sleep fell upon Abram — Not a common sleep through weariness or carelessness, but a divine extasy, that being wholly taken off from things sensible, he might be wholly taken up with the contemplation of things spiritual. The doors of the body were locked up, that the soul might be private and retired, and might act the more freely.
And lo, a horror of great darkness fell upon him — This was designed to strike an awe upon the spirit of Abram, and to possess him with a holy reverence. Holy fear prepares the soul for holy joy; God humbles first, and then lifts up.
Verse 17
[17] And it came to pass, that, when the sun went down, and it was dark, behold a smoking furnace, and a burning lamp that passed between those pieces.
When the sun was gone down the sign was given — The smoaking furnace signified the affliction of his seed in Egypt: they were there in the furnace of affliction, and labouring in the very fire. They were there in the smoke, their eyes darkened that they could not see to the end of their troubles. 2. The burning lamp speaks comfort in this affliction; and this God shewed Abram at the same time with the smoaking furnace. The lamp notes direction in the smoke; God's word was their lamp, a light shining in a dark place. Perhaps too this burning lamp prefigured the pillar of a cloud and fire which led them out of Egypt. 3. The passing of these between the pieces was the confirming of the covenant God now made with him. It is probable this furnace and lamp, which passed between the pieces, burned and consumed them, and so compleated the sacrifice, and testified God's acceptance of it, as of Gideon's, Judges 6:21, Manoah's, Judges 13:19,20, and Solomon's, 2 Chronicles 7:1. So it intimates, 1. That God's covenants with man are made by sacrifice, Psalms 50:5, by Christ, the great sacrifice. 2. God's acceptance of our spiritual sacrifices is a token for good, and an earnest of farther favours.
Verse 18
[18] In the same day the LORD made a covenant with Abram, saying, Unto thy seed have I given this land, from the river of Egypt unto the great river, the river Euphrates:
In that same day, the Lord made a covenant with Abram, saying, Unto thy seed have I given this land - He had said before, To thy seed will I give this land, but here he saith, I have given it; that is, 1. I have given the promise, the charter is sealed and delivered, and cannot be disanulled. 2. The possession is as sure in due time, as if it were now actually delivered to them. In David's time and Solomon's their jurisdiction extended to the utmost of these limits, 2 Chronicles 9:26. And it was their own fault that they were not sooner and longer in possession of all these territories. They forfeited their right by their sins, and by their own sloth and cowardice kept themselves out of possession. The present occupants are named, because their number and strength and long prescription, should be no hindrance to the accomplishment of this promise in its season; and to magnify God's love to Abram and his seed, in giving to that one nation the possession of many nations.
8:30am in Epworth Lounge10:30am in the Sanctuary
Anthem: "Ain't But the One" by Duke Ellington
No one to talk with
All by myself
No one to walk with
But I'm happy on the shelf
Ain't misbehavin'
I'm savin' my love for you
I know for certain
The one I love
I'm through with flirtin'
It's just you I'm thinkin' of
Ain't misbehavin'
I'm savin' my love for you
Like Jack Horner
In the corner
Don't go nowhere
What do I care?
Your kisses are worth waitin' for
Believe me
I don't stay out late
Don't care to go
I'm home about eight
Just me and my radio
Ain't misbehavin'
I'm savin' my love for you
Listen to Sermons onlineVisit our Website
Potato Bar Fundraiser Feb 21!
Inspired by the stories of Syrian refugees, the youth group hosting a Potato Bar Lunch this Sunday, to raise funds for Church World Service and their work with refugees in Europe. Click here for more information!
This meal is a Baked Potato bar! Drop a few bucks in the donation bucket, put a topping or seven on your potato, and meet a new friend in the fellowship hall after the 10:30 service on February 21st!
During Lent: Spiritual Practices
We invite you to take on new spiritual practices during Lent. Using the five commitments of our church's membership vows, we are asking you to come up with five promises about how you will seek to live out your faith. Then, we encourage you to find a small group of others to Check In with along the way. Read more here.
News From Our Members
"Last Sunday was Valentine's Day. Following church and a luncheon with six others of our church I arrived at home and took a nap. I am at the age where naps are part of my life. About four PM my phone rang with the caller reporting he was at my door. Often my doorbell doesn't work. When I opened the door there was Stephen Hale with three young ladies of our church youth. They had with them a Valentine gift of a bag of goodies and nibbles plus beautiful red balloons, a real nice Valentine's Day gift for me from them. What a way to brighten my day! For years I have heard of such visits and presentations and now it..."
Thursday, February 18, 2016 by Bob Peterson
Last Sunday was Valentine's Day. Following church and a luncheon with six others of our church I arrived at home and took a nap. I am at the age where naps are part of my life. About 4:00PM my phone rang with the caller reporting he was at my door. Often my doorbell doesn't work. When I opened the door there was Stephen Hale with three young ladies of our church youth. They had with them a Valentine gift of a bag of goodies and nibbles plus beautiful red balloons, a real nice Valentine's Day gift for me from them. What a way to brighten my day! For years I have heard of such visits and presentations and now it was my turn. They sang three or four parody songs for me and I showed them my home's view of the Los Angeles City and the Angeles Crest Mountains and we had a great visit. I thank you, our church, the Youth Program and the three young people of our church led by Grace. Thanks to you, Stephen, as well. It was a real treat for me and I understand other visits like mine were made that day. Lives were made happier by your love.
Also last Sunday our fine church choir led by Jim Raycroft sang a beautiful Ave Maria in Latin following a brief explanation of the meaning of this Tomás Luis de Victoria early composition. Our choir people always seem to rise to every occasion when asked. We think they are wonderful.
Now, this week-end we attend the late Bob Thune's celebration of life service, Saturday at 2:00 PM followed by Sunday's after worship Youth Group Fundraiser. The Potato Bar all church lunch, in the Fellowship Hall, to which all are invited for fellowship and food. Funds raised help the refugee problem in Europe.
Guess what? It's time for another Rummage Sale as presented by the women of our church, the UMW. Of course several of we men will be around to help out a bit, but it is their project and the money raised goes for their projects and programs. Everyone enjoys the shopping, the Friday lunch and the friendship that abounds throughout the two day event March 4 and 5. See you there in two weeks.
Read more hereRead Columns from our former Lay Leader, Johnna Kosnoff, here!
Coming at Church
Confirmation Class: Middle School
All young people in grades 6-8 are invited to participate in our church Confirmation Class this Spring.
Confirmation is an important part of how we prepare young people in faith; it is an opportunity for us to teach about our faith, and a way for young people to claim a faith of their own. For more info, contact Stephen.
Changes: Children & Family Ministries
We are looking for a new Director of Children and Family Ministries--we encourage you to check out our job posting, and pass it along to people you know of who might apply!
Our Sunday School Volunteer Team and an Interim Director!
We are thrilled to announce that Adriana Hwang has agreed to serve as a part-time Interim Director of Children and Family Ministries for our church. In coming weeks, she will work with our team of volunteers (and Children's Assistant Meagan Callahan) to keep our excellent Sunday School program going. If you are willing to lend a hand as a volunteer with our Children's Ministry, please let us know!
Our United Methodist Women's Rummage Sale is coming!
Friday, March 4: 9am-4pm
Saturday, March 5: 9am - 2pm
Saturday Special: $5 per bag!
If you have tables to loan for the boutique, please bring them to church by Thurs, Feb 25
Parents Night Out: February 26
Families are invited to join us for Parents' Night out on Friday, February 26, from 5:30-8:30.
RSVP to children@beachfaith.com by Wednesday, February 24 to make sure there's a spot for your family!
Sponsored by Children and Family Ministries.
Potluck Lunches this Spring!
We invite you to join your church family for a potluck after 10:30 worship on the several Sundays this spring: March 13, April 3, May 1 & June 5. Bring a dish to share - enjoy the fellowship!
Book Club: Our next book is "I Am Malala: the Girl Who Stood Up for Education and Was Shot by the Taliban."Author Malala Yousafzai was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for her act of defiance. Join us March 10 at 7pm in May Day Parlor. More info online; email Ann or Laura.
We had a great Annual Church Charge Conference in January; thanks to those who attended, and to everyone who shares in the ministries of our church. We have so much to celebrate about the good work we are able to do, together.
You can pick up a packet of our Conference Reports in the office.
Save the Date: Vacation Bible School 2016 will be in AUGUST
We're planning to shake up our summer schedule next year, and move Vacation Bible School to August in 2016!
We've got in on our church calendar forAugust 1-5, and hope you can plan to join us. We'll be looking for young surfers to attend, and volunteers of all ages.
Baja Trip 2016: July 16-23
Youth and others from the church can sign up now to be a part of Baja Mission 2016, as we return to Mexico for another week this summer.
Now is the time to think about whether you can join us this summer--the trip will be July 16-23, and is open to people of all ages.
Visit our website for more information!
Announcements
Men's Breakfast: Our next breakfast is Monday, March 7, at 7AM. Coco's Restaurant, 18120 Hawthorne Blvd. (Hawthorne and 182nd). All men of the church and their friends are welcome to join us for fellowship.
20/30 group: This young adult group is a casual gathering of people in their 20's and 30's looking to connect with other young adults who attend the same church. Contact Amanda Kuczun for info on upcoming events!
Prayer Quilt Ministry: Know someone in need of prayer? You can sponsor a free prayer quilt for them. Next Quilt Workshop: Friday, February 19, 10am-noon. Through April we will meet on the Third Friday of each Month! We will work on various projects. (The quilt backing/binding tutorial is moved to next month, on March 18.) More information is online.
Meals and More: Did you know that we have a ministry that organizes meals and other assistance for church folks in times of need? In the past, we've helped arrange rides to medical appointments, meals for people recovering from surgery, and more. Leila Grantz coordinates this ministry, using online sign-up tools. If you want to be a part of the group that she emails when there is an opportunity to help, or if you know someone who's in need of a little help, please contact the church office or Leila.
Memorial Service for Bob Thune: Join us Saturday, February 20 at 2 pm, with a reception to follow (hosted by our UMW).
Memorial Service for Betty Addis: Friday, February 19 at 9 am, at the Historic Chapel at Green Hills.
Mary Circle: Mary Circle will not meet at their regular time (2/22). They will gather at the home of Cristine Wolf for their annual Oscar party on Sunday, February 28 at 3:00PM.
Church Council: Our monthly Church Council meeting will be Monday, February 22nd, at 7pm in Epworth Lounge. Please note that this is a week later than our usual meeting, because of the Presidents' Day holiday!
Lost & Found: Please take a look at our Lost & Found table on Sunday morning. We have a nice collection of clothing, coffee travel mugs and more. All unclaimed items will be donated to the rummage sale on March 4.
This Week: Children, Youth & Adults
Nursery (6 weeks+):
The Nursery is open during both services, for ages 6 weeks to 6 yrs old. Located right off of the parking lot across Epworth Lounge. Any questions email the Nursery Coordinator: Adriana Hwang
Children's Ministry (age 3 - 3rd Grade & Church R Us: grades 4-5):
10:30am Sunday School: Sunday's Bible Story: "God’s Covenant with Abraham" (Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18) God makes promises too! Those promises are called covenants. Today’s story is from Genesis, the first book in the Bible. God hsa been around since the very beginning making promises, and God is still with us—keeping them!
Church R Us (Special Class for Grades 4 & 5):
10:30am: CRU meets above the Nursery! Sunday's Lesson: "God’s Covenant with Abraham" (Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18) Today’s story is from Genesis, the first book in the Bible. God has been around since the very beginning making promises, and God is still with us—keeping them!
Youth Ministry (6th-12th grade):
-NOPE! No Middle school Sunday School this week!!
-Youth Group? YES, from 3-5pm.
-We are also hosting the Potato Bar to benefit aid for Syrian refugees (see announcement above). If you can help with set up and/or hosting, please arrive at 9am Sunday morning. You can sign up to bring toppings, too! Contact Stephen or the church office for more details!
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:
Thursday mornings from 11:00-noon, in May Day Parlor. Led by Pastor Molly.
United Methodist News & Events
Our congregation is a part of the El Tordondo Mission Area, in the West District of theCalifornia-Pacific Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church.
General Conference 2016
The United Methodist Church’s top legislative body will meet in Portland, Oregon on May 10-20, 2016.
General Conference is the top policy-making body of The United Methodist Church which meets once every four years. The conference can revise church law, as well as adopt resolutions on current moral, social, public policy and economic issues. It also approves plans and budgets for church-wide programs.Read more.Pastor Molly will attend as a Reserve Delegate for our Annual Conference.
We invite you to join with others in praying for the church before and during this event.
Ongoing Ministries
Free Meal on Wednesday Nights
Offering food and friendship to those in need, every Wednesday night since 1992. More info here.
Thanks for All the Desserts for Shared Bread!
Our thanks to everyone who has pitched in to help provide desserts for Shared Bread, after we lost our regular donor. Your response has been really amazing: not only have we had plenty each week, but our freezer's full, too!
So, you can take a break from the baking for now. We'll ask for help again, soon!
Choir & Our Music Ministry
Join our choir and lend your voice to help us worship God together. Choir rehearses most Wednesday nights, from 7:30-9pm. We are always looking for instrumentalists and musical guests, too. Contact Jim Raycroft for more info.
Corazon "Super Build"
Saturday, April 16: A Corazon house build, involving several churches and volunteer groups working to make a difference in the lives of many. We hope you will consider participating in this outreach opportunity. Email George or Peggy Mercer for more info.
Tell Us About Yourself...
Please take a moment to tell us about your skills and interests through our online questionnaire.
Do You Know Pro Tools or Logic
The Music Department is looking for someone who knows ProTools, Logic, or comparable program for recording and mixing worship service audio.
Contact Jim Raycroft.
We have many spots to fill for liturgists on Sunday mornings. The following link will take you the sign up. Please check it out.
Sunday Worship Liturgist Sign Up
Parking Reminder: If you are able, we encourage you to park at the Wells Fargo bank on Sunday mornings, and walk across the street, reserving the parking lot for those with mobility challenges or for new visitors. We also have a bike rack on the patio. Thanks for your consideration.
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In Memoriam: Betty Addis of The First United Methodist Church of Redondo Beach, California, United States for Tuesday, 16 February 2016
We give thanks to God for the life of Betty Addis.
In Memoriam: Betty Addis
August 25, 1934 - February 13, 2016
"O Lord, from everlasting to everlasting you are God. Look down upon our sorrowing hearts today, we humbly pray, and be gracious. Help all who mourn to cast every care upon you, and find comfort, through Jesus Christ our Lord."
With deep sympathy and prayers, we share news of the passing of Betty Kay Addis of our congregation.
Betty passed from this life on Saturday, February 13 in Palos Verdes, after a long struggle with Lewy Body Disease. She is preceded in death by her son, Thomas Kay, and husband Jim Addis, and is survived by Patricia Anne Bean (niece), Kelly Anne Martin (niece), MayAnn Bean (sister-in-law), Amaya Gomez (grand-niece), Robert Gomez (grand-nephew) and Javier Gomez (nephew-in-law), as well as family of choice that include Kelly, Rick and Trey Gasset, and Will Carlton.
Betty was born in Texas, but came to Redondo Beach as a young girl. After graduating from Redondo Union High School, she got a job at TRW, where she worked for almost 50 years. She shared the last several decades of life with her husband, Jim Addis, as they traveled the world and served the community.
Betty was a long time friend of the church, serving for many years as an active volunteer with Shared Bread when she was a member of the South Bay Christian Church. Since that congregation closed, she has been a regular part of our congregation, until her health prevented her presence.
There will be a memorial service for Betty at the Historic Church at Green Hills (27501 South Western Avenue, Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275) onFriday, February 19 at 9am, with a burial to follow directly afterwards. Rev. Molly Vetter will officiate.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to Shared Bread at First United Methodist Church of Redondo Beach.
May God grant us grace, that in pain we may find comfort, in sorrow hope, in death resurrection.(from the United Methodist Book of Worship)
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Redondo Beach, California, United States First United Methodist Church eNews: Spiritual Practices for Life--Prayers for Thursday, 11 February 2016
This Sunday: Living our faith through prayer.
Orientation to our Lenten Spiritual Practices at 9:30 or 11:45!
From Pastor Molly: With our Prayers
We love God and support the work of the church with our prayers. Prayer opens a channel of communication between us and God, and strengthens our connection within the community. Sometimes we pray alone, and other times we pray together with others. We pray in silence and in words. We pray for the sake of hearing God’s direction in our lives, as intercession for the needs of others and our world, and as a way of offering gratitude to God.
Do you have a favorite way to pray? Or a regular time in your day when you are in the habit of praying? Are the places and spaces that help you pray?
In the Bible, Paul writes that we are to "pray without ceasing" (1 Thessalonians 5:17). For this to be possible--that our whole lives could be lived in prayer to God--we have to begin with prayers that are occasional. I believe that opening up that channel of communication with God helps make it possible that prayer could be part of the very fabric of our being.
We will be talking on Sunday about some of the ways we pray. I would love to hear about what habits you have, and what has been meaningful and helpful in developing your prayer life. I will encourage you to take up one additional way of praying this Lent, as a part of our Spiritual Practices for Life. I look forward to what it will mean for us all.
Wherever you are in your life of faith, I pray that this will be a season of deepening commitment, and a way of drawing ever closer to the life-giving love of God.[Pastor Molly Vetter]
P.S. The church office will be closed Monday, February 15, in observance of the Presidents' Day holiday.
In Worship This Week
Sunday, February 14
First Sunday of Lent: Prayers
Scripture: Luke 4:1-13
"With Our Prayers"
Molly Vetter, preachingScripture: Luke 4:1 Then Yeshua, filled with the Ruach HaKodesh, returned from the Yarden and was led by the Spirit in the wilderness 2 for forty days of testing by the Adversary. During that time he ate nothing, and afterwards he was hungry. 3 The Adversary said to him, “If you are the Son of God, order this stone to become bread.” 4 Yeshua answered him, “The Tanakh says, ‘Man does not live on bread alone.’”[Luke 4:4 Deuteronomy 8:3]
5 The Adversary took him up, showed him in an instant all the kingdoms of the world, 6 and said to him, “I will give you all this power and glory. It has been handed over to me, and I can give it to whomever I choose. 7 So if you will worship me, it will all be yours.” 8 Yeshua answered him, “The Tanakh says, ‘Worship Adonai your God and serve him only.’”[Luke 4:8 Deuteronomy 6:13–14]
9 Then he took him to Yerushalayim, set him on the highest point of the Temple and said to him, “If you are the Son of God, jump from here! 10 For the Tanakh says,
‘He will order his angels
to be responsible for you and to protect you.
11 They will support you with their hands,
so that you will not hurt your feet on the stones.’”[Luke 4:11 Psalm 91:11–12]
12 Yeshua answered him, “It also says, ‘Do not put Adonai your God to the test.’”[Luke 4:12 Deuteronomy 6:16] 13 When the Adversary had ended all his testings, he let him alone until an opportune time.
John Wesley's Notes-Commentary for Scripture: Luke 4:1-13
Verse 4
[4] And Jesus answered him, saying, It is written, That man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word of God.
Deuteronomy 8:3.
Verse 6
[6] And the devil said unto him, All this power will I give thee, and the glory of them: for that is delivered unto me; and to whomsoever I will I give it.
I give it to whomsoever I will — Not so, Satan. It is God, not thou, that putteth down one, and setteth up another: although sometimes Satan, by God's permission, may occasion great revolutions in the world.
Verse 8
[8] And Jesus answered and said unto him, Get thee behind me, Satan: for it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve.
Deuteronomy 6:13.
Verse 10
[10] For it is written, He shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee:
Psalms 91:11.
Verse 12
[12] And Jesus answering said unto him, It is said, Thou shalt not tempt the Lord thy God.
Deuteronomy 6:16.
Verse 13
[13] And when the devil had ended all the temptation, he departed from him for a season.
A convenient season — In the garden of Gethsemane, Luke 22:53.
8:30am in Epworth Lounge10:30am in the Sanctuary
Anthem: "Ave Maria" and "The Prayer," with Chase Matthews & Julie Brody"Ave Maria"
Ave Maria, gratia plena.
Maria, gratia plena
Maria, gratia plena
Ave, ave dominus,
Dominus tecum.
Benedicta tu in mulieribus,
Et benedictus
Et benedictus fructus ventris,
Ventris tui, Jesus.
Ave Maria.
(Some versions add the following)
Ave Maria, Mater Dei,
Ora pro nobis peccatoribus,
Ora, ora pro nobis;
Ora, ora pro nobis peccatoribus,
Nunc et in hora mortis,
In hora mortis nostrae.
In hora, mortis, mortis nostrae,
In hora mortis nostrae.
Ave Maria
Listen to Sermons online"The Prayer" by CAROLE BAYER SAGER, DAVID FOSTER
I pray you'll be our eyes and watch us where we go.
And help us to be wise in times when we don't know
Let this be our prayer when we lose our way
Lead us to the place guide us with your grace
To a place where we'll be safe
La luce che tu hai
(I pray we'll find your light)
Nel cuore resterà
(And hold it in our hearts.)
A ricordarci che
(When stars go out each night,)
Eterna stella sei
Nella mia preghiera
(Let this be our prayer)
Quanta fede see'è
(When shadows fill our day)
Lead us to a place, guide us with your grace
Give us faith so we'll be safe
Sogniamo un mondo senza più violenza
Un mondo di giustizia e di speranza
Ognuno lo dia la mano al suo vicino
Simbolo di pace, di fraternità
La forza che ci dà
(We ask that life be kind)
È il desiderio che
(And watch us from above)
Ognuno trovi amor
(We hope each soul will find)
Intorno e dentro sé
(Another soul to love)
Let this be our prayer (Let this be our prayer),
Just like every child
Need to find a place, guide us with your grace
Give us faith so we'll be safe
È la fede che
Hai acceso in noi,
Sento che ci salverà
Visit our WebsiteDuring Lent: Spiritual Practices
We invite you to take on new spiritual practices during Lent. Using the five commitments of our church's membership vows, we are asking you to come up with five promises about how you will seek to live out your faith. Then, we encourage you to find a small group of others to Check In with along the way. Read more here.
Join Pastor Molly for a 45-minute orientation to this Lenten practice nextSunday, February 14, at either 9:30 or 11:45, in Epworth Lounge!
News From Our Members
"Did you enjoy a great breakfast at church last Sunday? Pancakes, sausage, bacon, juices, coffee and fruit of every kind plus a lot of other items were available so, perhaps every person had their choice of a favorite. Thanks to all who prepared it. This event was also a grand farewell to Katherine Stanfill as she leaves her church job of childrens ministry, but remains, with her family, as members of our church. It was also Super Bowl Sunday, so a lot of support was directed towards our Shared Bread Ministry as well.
So, now we are in..."
Thursday, February 11, 2016 by Bob Peterson
Did you enjoy a great breakfast at church last Sunday? Pancakes, sausage, bacon, juices, coffee and fruit of every kind plus a lot of other items were available so, perhaps every person had their choice of a favorite. Thanks to all who prepared it. This event was also a grand farewell to Katherine Stanfill as she leaves her church job of childrens ministry, but remains, with her family, as members of our church. It was also Super Bowl Sunday, so a lot of support was directed towards our Shared Bread Ministry as well.
So, now we are in the season of Lent appreciating specially prepared sermons by Pastor Molly Vetter. Perhaps you attended the joint Methodist Church service Ash Wednesday at Torrance First United Methodist Church and are ready to make changes in your life. Changes have been many around our church and the latest is a regular Sunday noon potluck each month, beginning March 13th. What a great chance to meet new friends at a meal here in our church. Hope to see you there.
Several of us have commented on the fact that our church has paid our full apportionment to our local Conference, an indication of financial support as well as spiritual support of the greater denomination. It hasn't always been thus, but we are delighted to have paid in full for 2015.
Read more hereRead Columns from our former Lay Leader, Johnna Kosnoff, here!
Coming at Church
Confirmation Class: Middle School
All young people in grades 6-8 are invited to participate in our church Confirmation Class this Spring.
Confirmation is an important part of how we prepare young people in faith; it is an opportunity for us to teach about our faith, and a way for young people to claim a faith of their own. For more info, contact Stephen.
Changes: Children & Family Ministries
We are looking for a new Director of Children and Family Ministries--we encourage you to check out our job posting, and pass it along to people you know of who might apply!
Our Sunday School Volunteer Team and an Interim Director!
We are thrilled to announce that Adriana Hwang has agreed to serve as a part-time Interim Director of Children and Family Ministries for our church. In coming weeks, she will work with our team of volunteers (and Children's Assistant Meagan Callahan) to keep our excellent Sunday School program going. If you are willing to lend a hand as a volunteer with our Children's Ministry, please let us know!
Our United Methodist Women's Rummage Sale is coming!
Friday, March 4: 9am-4pm
Saturday, March 5: 9am - 2pm
Saturday Special: $5 per bag!
If you have tables to loan for the boutique, please bring them to church by Thurs, Feb 25
Mark Your Calendars: Monthly Parents Night Out this Spring
Families are invited to join us for Parents' Night out each month.
Mark your calendars for Fridays, February 26 and March 18, from 5:30-8:30.
Sponsored by Children and Family Ministries.
Potlucks Lunches this Spring!
We invite you to join your church family for a potluck after 10:30 worship on the several Sundays this spring: March 13, April 3, May 1 & June 5. Bring a dish to share - enjoy the fellowship!
(On February 21, please join us after worship for a Potato Bar fundraiser!)
Potato Bar Fundraiser Feb 21!
Speaking of potlucks, our church will have a meal together February 21st. The youth group is raising funds for Church World Service and their work with refugees in Europe. Click here for more information!
This meal is a Baked Potato bar! Drop a few bucks in the donation bucket, put a topping or seven on your potato, and meet a new friend in the fellowship hall after the 10:30 service on February 21st!
Read the Bible: Recap
It was good to read the Bible together (and to think about how we read and approach the Bible!) in January. Even though the month is officially over, it's not too late to do more Bible reading. :)
Find all the assignments and more recommended reading here.
Book Club: Our next book is "I Am Malala: the Girl Who Stood Up for Education and Was Shot by the Taliban."Author Malala Yousafzai was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for her act of defiance. Join us March 10 at 7pm in May Day Parlor. More info online; email Ann or Laura.
We had a great Annual Church Charge Conference in January; thanks to those who attended, and to everyone who shares in the ministries of our church. We have so much to celebrate about the good work we are able to do, together.
You can pick up a packet of our Conference Reports in the office.
Save the Date: Vacation Bible School 2016 will be in AUGUST
We're planning to shake up our summer schedule next year, and move Vacation Bible School to August in 2016!
We've got in on our church calendar forAugust 1-5, and hope you can plan to join us. We'll be looking for young surfers to attend, and volunteers of all ages.
Baja Trip 2016: July 16-23
Youth and others from the church can sign up now to be a part of Baja Mission 2016, as we return to Mexico for another week this summer.
Now is the time to think about whether you can join us this summer--the trip will be July 16-23, and is open to people of all ages.
Visit our website for more information!
Announcements
Men's Breakfast: Our next breakfast is Monday, February 15, at 7AM. Coco's Restaurant, 18120 Hawthorne Blvd. (Hawthorne and 182nd). All men of the church and their friends are welcome to join us for fellowship.
20/30 group: This young adult group is a casual gathering of people in their 20's and 30's looking to connect with other young adults who attend the same church. Contact Amanda Kuczun for info on upcoming events!
Prayer Quilt Ministry: Know someone in need of prayer? You can sponsor a free prayer quilt for them. Next Quilt Workshop: Friday, February 19, 10am-noon. Through April we will meet on the Third Friday of each Month! We will demonstrate how to put the quilt together with batting and backing, and work on other projects. More information is online.
Meals and More: Did you know that we have a ministry that organizes meals and other assistance for church folks in times of need? In the past, we've helped arrange rides to medical appointments, meals for people recovering from surgery, and more. Leila Grantz coordinates this ministry, using online sign-up tools. If you want to be a part of the group that she emails when there is an opportunity to help, or if you know someone who's in need of a little help, please contact the church office or Leila.
Memorial Service for Bob Thune: Join us Saturday, February 20 at 2 pm, with a reception to follow (hosted by our UMW).
Mary Circle: Mary Circle will not meet at their regular time (2/22). They will gather at the home of Cristine Wolf for their annual Oscar party on Sunday, February 28 at 3:00PM.
Church Council: Our monthly Church Council meeting will be Monday, February 22nd, at 7pm in Epworth Lounge. Please note that this is a week later than our usual meeting, because of the Presidents' Day holiday!
This Week: Children, Youth & Adults
Nursery (6 weeks+):
The Nursery is open during both services, for ages 6 weeks to 6 yrs old. Located right off of the parking lot across Epworth Lounge. Any questions email the Nursery Coordinator: Adriana Hwang
Children's Ministry (age 3 - 3rd Grade & Church R Us: grades 4-5):
10:30am Sunday School: Sunday's Bible Story: "Jesus Is Tempted" (Luke 4:1-13) All of us are tempted, and in today’s Bible story we learn that Jesus was tempted too!
Church R Us (Special Class for Grades 4 & 5):
10:30am: CRU meets above the Nursery! Sunday's Lesson: "Jesus Is Tempted" (Luke 4:1-13) All of us are tempted, and in today’s Bible story we learn that Jesus was tempted too!
Youth Ministry (6th-12th grade):
-Yes! Sunday School this week!!
-Youth Group? We're doing something different this week. We'll go get Korean BBQ after 10:30 service, then come back to church and pack up Valentine's Bouquets so we can deliver them! We expect to be done around 6pm. Contact Stephen or the church office for more details!
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:
Thursday mornings from 11:00-noon, in May Day Parlor. Led by Pastor Molly.
United Methodist News & Events
Our congregation is a part of the El Tordondo Mission Area, in the West District of theCalifornia-Pacific Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church.
General Conference 2016
The United Methodist Church’s top legislative body will meet in Portland, Oregon on May 10-20, 2016.
General Conference is the top policy-making body of The United Methodist Church which meets once every four years. The conference can revise church law, as well as adopt resolutions on current moral, social, public policy and economic issues. It also approves plans and budgets for church-wide programs.Read more.Pastor Molly will attend as a Reserve Delegate for our Annual Conference.
We invite you to join with others in praying for the church before and during this event.
First United Methodist Church of Redondo Beach
243 South Broadway
Redondo Beach, California 90277, United States
310-372-8445 main
310-372-8445 main
10-372-5696 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.
Desserts Needed for Shared Bread
Shared Bread has lost our biggest desserts donor – Albertsons. Would you consider buying or baking a dessert for our Shared Bread program? Homemade treats are treasured by our guests – but a cheesecake from Costco or cupcakes from Ralphs would be wonderful. Please wrap desserts tightly and mark for Shared Bread. Deliver Sunday through Wednesday to the church kitchen (or the office if kitchen is closed.)
If you are able to bake or buy dessert on a regular basis, please contact Nina Dooley . Thanks for your sweet caring
Choir & Our Music Ministry
Join our choir and lend your voice to help us worship God together. Choir rehearses most Wednesday nights, from 7:30-9pm. We are always looking for instrumentalists and musical guests, too. Contact Jim Raycroft for more info.
Corazon "Super Build"
Saturday, April 16: A Corazon house build, involving several churches and volunteer groups working to make a difference in the lives of many. We hope you will consider participating in this outreach opportunity. Email George or Peggy Mercer for more info.
Tell Us About Yourself...
Please take a moment to tell us about your skills and interests through our online questionnaire.
Do You Know Pro Tools or Logic
The Music Department is looking for someone who knows ProTools, Logic, or comparable program for recording and mixing worship service audio.
Contact Jim Raycroft.
We have many spots to fill for liturgists on Sunday mornings. The following link will take you the sign up. Please check it out.
Sunday Worship Liturgist Sign Up
Parking Reminder: If you are able, we encourage you to park at the Wells Fargo bank on Sunday mornings, and walk across the street, reserving the parking lot for those with mobility challenges or for new visitors. We also have a bike rack on the patio. Thanks for your consideration.
Connect with us
First United Methodist Church
Ongoing Ministries
Free Meal on Wednesday Nights
Offering food and friendship to those in need, every Wednesday night since 1992. More info here.
Desserts Needed for Shared Bread
Shared Bread has lost our biggest desserts donor – Albertsons. Would you consider buying or baking a dessert for our Shared Bread program? Homemade treats are treasured by our guests – but a cheesecake from Costco or cupcakes from Ralphs would be wonderful. Please wrap desserts tightly and mark for Shared Bread. Deliver Sunday through Wednesday to the church kitchen (or the office if kitchen is closed.)
If you are able to bake or buy dessert on a regular basis, please contact Nina Dooley . Thanks for your sweet caring
Choir & Our Music Ministry
Join our choir and lend your voice to help us worship God together. Choir rehearses most Wednesday nights, from 7:30-9pm. We are always looking for instrumentalists and musical guests, too. Contact Jim Raycroft for more info.
Corazon "Super Build"
Saturday, April 16: A Corazon house build, involving several churches and volunteer groups working to make a difference in the lives of many. We hope you will consider participating in this outreach opportunity. Email George or Peggy Mercer for more info.
Tell Us About Yourself...
Please take a moment to tell us about your skills and interests through our online questionnaire.
Do You Know Pro Tools or Logic
The Music Department is looking for someone who knows ProTools, Logic, or comparable program for recording and mixing worship service audio.
Contact Jim Raycroft.
We have many spots to fill for liturgists on Sunday mornings. The following link will take you the sign up. Please check it out.
Sunday Worship Liturgist Sign Up
Parking Reminder: If you are able, we encourage you to park at the Wells Fargo bank on Sunday mornings, and walk across the street, reserving the parking lot for those with mobility challenges or for new visitors. We also have a bike rack on the patio. Thanks for your consideration.
Connect with us
First United Methodist Church
243 South Broadway
Redondo Beach, California 90277, United States
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