From Pastor Molly: caring for God's creation
Tomorrow is Earth Day, a holiday that gives us occasion to think about how we might be a part of caring for the earth. As Christians, we are asked to care for the earth not only because it's our home, but because God created it, and declared it good. It has integrity and value not only because it's useful to us. We believe that we live out our faithfulness to God in being faithful stewards or caretaker of creation.
I invite you to think about one change you might make to better care for the earth. Our custodian, Arnie, has been trying to get us to use recycle bins at church--you could help him by using the right receptacle. Perhaps you might decide to walk or bicycle to church on Sunday. Or choose to eat less meat this week. All our little actions matter (especially when we make them a part of our regular lives).
I also invite you to join me in this prayer of confession for Earth Day, written by a United Methodist pastor in North Carolina, Ken Carter:
O God, maker of heaven and earth, of all that is, seen and unseen:
You place us in your creation, and you command us to care for it.
Your works declare glory and splendor, and you call us to praise and reverence.
Where we have degraded or destroyed earth's bounty, forgive us.
Where we have taken beauty and majesty for granted, have mercy upon us.
Where we have become estranged from the creatures with whom we share this planet,
grant us your peace.
Renew us in the waters of baptism,
refresh us with the winds of your spirit,
and sustain us with the bread of life.
In the name of Jesus Christ, and for the sake of the new creation, we pray. Amen.[Pastor Molly Vetter]
I will be away this Sunday--in Texas to officiate at the wedding of our Youth Director, Stephen Hale and Mary Nordine, from our congregation! I'll also be away next Sunday, on vacation. I am thrilled that Rev. Nicole Reilley will be here to preach both weeks, and know you'll welcome and learn from her.
In Worship This Week
Sunday, April 24
Acts 9:36-43
Scripture for: Acts 9:36-37 Down the road a way in Joppa there was a disciple named Tabitha, “Gazelle” in our language. She was well-known for doing good and helping out. During the time Peter was in the area she became sick and died. Her friends prepared her body for burial and put her in a cool room.
38-40 Some of the disciples had heard that Peter was visiting in nearby Lydda and sent two men to ask if he would be so kind as to come over. Peter got right up and went with them. They took him into the room where Tabitha’s body was laid out. Her old friends, most of them widows, were in the room mourning. They showed Peter pieces of clothing the Gazelle had made while she was with them. Peter put the widows all out of the room. He knelt and prayed. Then he spoke directly to the body: “Tabitha, get up.”
40-41 She opened her eyes. When she saw Peter, she sat up. He took her hand and helped her up. Then he called in the believers and widows, and presented her to them alive.
42-43 When this became known all over Joppa, many put their trust in the Master. Peter stayed on a long time in Joppa as a guest of Simon the Tanner.
John Wesley's Notes-Commentary for: Acts 9:36-43
Verse 36
[36] Now there was at Joppa a certain disciple named Tabitha, which by interpretation is called Dorcas: this woman was full of good works and almsdeeds which she did.
Tabitha, which is by interpretation Dorcas — She was probably a Hellenist Jew, known among the Hebrews by the Syriac name Tabitha, while the Greeks called her in their own language, Dorcas. They are both words of the same import, and signify a roe or fawn.
Verse 38
[38] And forasmuch as Lydda was nigh to Joppa, and the disciples had heard that Peter was there, they sent unto him two men, desiring him that he would not delay to come to them.
The disciples sent to him — Probably none of those at Joppa had the gift of miracles. Nor is it certain that they expected a miracle from him.
Verse 39
[39] Then Peter arose and went with them. When he was come, they brought him into the upper chamber: and all the widows stood by him weeping, and shewing the coats and garments which Dorcas made, while she was with them.
While she was with the in — That is, before she died.
Verse 40
[40] But Peter put them all forth, and kneeled down, and prayed; and turning him to the body said, Tabitha, arise. And she opened her eyes: and when she saw Peter, she sat up.
Peter having put them all out — That he might have the better opportunity of wrestling with God in prayer, said, Tabitha, arise.
And she opened her eyes, and seeing Peter, sat up — Who can imagine the surprise of Dorcas, when called back to life? Or of her friends, when they saw her alive? For the sake of themselves, and of the poor, there was cause of rejoicing, and much more, for such a confirmation of the Gospel. Yet to herself it was matter of resignation, not joy, to be called back to these scenes of vanity: but doubtless, her remaining days were still more zealously spent in the service of her Saviour and her God. Thus was a richer treasure laid up for her in heaven, and she afterward returned to a more exceeding weight of glory, than that from which so astonishing a providence had recalled her for a season.
"Life After Death" Rev. Nicole Reilley, preaching
8:30am in Epworth Lounge
10:30am in the Sanctuary
Special Music: "Jerusalem" by C H Parry
"Jerusalem Hymn"
And did those feet in ancient time
Walk upon England's mountain green?
And was the holy Lamb of God
On England's pleasant pastures seen?
And did the countenance divine
Shine forth upon our clouded hills?
And was Jerusalem builded here
Among those dark satanic mills?
Bring me my bow of burning gold!
Bring me my arrows of desire!
Bring me my spear! O clouds, unfold!
Bring me my chariot of fire!
I will not cease from mental fight,
Nor shall my sword sleep in my hand,
Till we have built Jerusalem
In England's green and pleasant land.
"And did those feet in ancient time" is a short poem by William Blake
And did those feet in ancient time,
Walk upon England's mountains green:
And was the holy Lamb of God,
On England's pleasant pastures seen!
And did the Countenance Divine,
Shine forth upon our clouded hills?
And was Jerusalem builded here,
Among these dark Satanic Mills?
Bring me my Bow of burning gold;
Bring me my Arrows of desire:
Bring me my Spear: O clouds unfold!
Bring me my Chariot of fire!
I will not cease from Mental Fight,
Nor shall my Sword sleep in my hand:
Till we have built Jerusalem,
In England's green & pleasant Land
Listen to Sermons onlineVisit our Website
News From Our Members
"I have this habit of looking at the dedication pages of bibles and hymnals in our church. Last Sunday the three books in front of me were dedicated (bought) for the church by long time families Kirk, Day and McCandless. The unique thing about this is that their children intermarried, John Kirk to Mindy Day, and Kathy Kirk to Rick Mcandless, so they are all related by marriage and the books are next to each other right in front of me. Quite a serendipity, I would say...
Thursday, 21 April 2016 by Bob Peterson
I have this habit of looking at the dedication pages of bibles and hymnals in our church. Last Sunday the three books in front of me were dedicated (bought) for the church by long time families Kirk, Day and McCandless. The unique thing about this is that their children intermarried, John Kirk to Mindy Day, and Kathy Kirk to Rick Mcandless, so they are all related by marriage and the books are next to each other right in front of me. Quite a serendipity, I would say.
Last Sunday, did you notice two of our Worship Band members joined our choir as they sang the a-Capella anthem, “Down to the River to Pray”? The are eager to help out whenever they can.
There were about twenty-five of us listening to Pastor Molly Vetter talk about the way our United Methodist Church Denomination is organized prior to her trip as an Alternate Delegate to the Portland, Oregon General Conference 2016. I learned a couple of things that I wish to pass on to you.
The General Conference is led by Rev. Warner Brown, President of the Bishop's Council and I bet you didn't know that. He is from the San Francisco area and presides as the top person. Also this year, 2016, is the sixtieth anniversary of the United Methodist Church inviting women to become clergy. There is so much to organize, getting every one housed, in place, fed, etc. that many local people are helping. Our own George and Peggy Mercer will be up there helping persons who fly in from around the world locate their lodgings and doing other things to make their experience friendly and welcoming. Anyway, these bits are the tip of the iceberg so ask those who know and learn about it.
It was announced Sunday that Mary Emerson had passed on and her daughter left detailed facts about her life. Here at our church she had asked me to help her walk from communion back to the pew we both occupied, so we've been friends for a few years. I will miss her as will others for she knew many of you. Her passing at age 95 indicates a life well lived. Services will be in Arizona.
Read more here
Read Columns from our former Lay Leader, Johnna Kosnoff, here!
Coming at Church
Trustees Work Day at Church
Saturday, April 30 from 8:00 - 11:00am.
We will do some demo in the balcony, repaint the patio benches and clean and polish the pews in the sanctuary.
If there are enough volunteers, we'll end the morning's work with a lunch party on the patio.
Questions? Ready to sign up? Contact Trustees Chair Mark Elenbass.
Stephen & Mary are Getting Married!
And you're invited to the reception!
Their Wedding Reception is in the Fellowship Hall on Sunday May 1, 6-9pm. Youth group families already received an invitation, and you're invited, too!
Stephen Hale (our Youth Director) and Mary Nordine invite you to join them for a redeclaration of vows, cake, toasts, piñatas, and more than a little dancing!
(Some of you have asked: They do have an online gift registry!)
Potluck Lunch on May 1
We invite you to join your church family for a potluck after 10:30 worship. Bring a dish to share - enjoy the fellowship!
Mark your calendars for the next potluck: June 5.
Pablo, Anna, Elizabeth and Melanie in front of their new home.
Last week's Corazon house build was a success!
Many thanks to our build team members: Jeffery Tuuholoaki, NIck Hartland, Nancy Reiss, Kevin and Bryan Hwang, George and Peggy Mercer, Linsey and Mattie Miller, and Dave and Kate Ouwerkerk.
Parents Night Out at Church
After this Saturday, there's one more Parent's Night out on our calendar: May 20
RSVP to children@beachfaith.com asap to make sure there's a spot for your family!
BeachFaith Kids Summer Performing Arts Camp:
Aug. 15-19; age 3-6th grade.
Mark you calendars now--more info online.
Sponsored by Children and Family Ministries.
Children's Choir: Mother's Day
Kids (age 3 - 5th grade) are invited to join in a special Children's Choir to sing on Mother's Day. There will be two rehearsals: Sundays April 24 & May 1, from 11:40-noon. The children will sing in 10:30 worship on Sunday, May 8 (with a before-worship rehearsal that day, at 10am). Learn the song online!
A Mother's Day Gift from Church
Like last year, instead of giving flowers to mothers at church on Mother's Day this year, we are making a gift to support mothers in need around the world. This year, we will make a gift to Imagine No Malaria, in honor of all our mothers (and those who mother us).
You are invited to make an extra gift to INM, too, in honor of mothers--just mark your gift "Mother's Day."
Through education, bed nets & more, $10 is able to make a difference and save a life.
Our United Methodist campaign to eradicate malaria has reached 90% of our goal--but there's still a ways to go! Our congregation has raised $18,400 toward our $20,000 goal. We are asked to submit our donations by May, but gifts are still welcome after that.
Book Club: Our next book is "The Street Lawyer," by John Grisham It is the story of a corporate lawyer who is held hostage, along with other associates, by a homeless man. The transformation of Mike following this experience is well suited to our learning more about the plight of the homeless. Join us Thursday, April 21, 7 pm
More info online; email Ann or Laura.
Vacation Bible School 2016: August 1-5
We hope you can join us for VBS, for ages 3-8th grade! We'll be looking for young "surfers" to attend, and volunteers of all ages. Registration is open now, and we are looking for volunteers for all sorts of jobs, before, during and after our VBS week.
Did You Hear About Our New Headphones?
Do you have trouble hearing what's happening during Sunday worship? If so, we have four hearing assistance devices with new headphones available for use. They may be borrowed from the Audio/Video techs on Sunday mornings. We have regular and earbud style headphones. Try them next time your here!
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!
Guest Preacher: Rev. Nicole Reilley
We are pleased to welcome Rev. Nicole Reilley as preacher on Sundays April 24 and May 1. Rev. Nicole is the Director of New Ministries for our California-Pacific Annual Conference of the UMC. Previously, she served as Interim Pastor of our congregation (in 2012), and she continues to hold her charge conference membership here. Rev. Nicole will preach and teach on "Life After Death" (April 24) and "Life Before Death" (May 1).
On Pentecost: Welcome Back as Preacher Rev. Winfried Ritter
On Pentecost Sunday, May 15, we are pleased to welcome Rev. Winfred Ritter back to our pulpit. Rev. Ritter served as our Senior Pastor from 1984-1992; he is currently retired and lives in the San Diego area. It was during Rev. Ritter's time at the church that we laid the groundwork for starting Shared Bread; he inspired and faithfully led the congregation. He will preach and lead worship in both of our morning services on Pentecost, a special day of celebration (and the Holy Spirit!) for our congregation.
Announcements
Men's Breakfast: Our next breakfast is Monday, May 2, 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, May 20, 10am-noon. Sue Christman will lead us in making blocks with paper piecing--if you haven't tried this quilt-making technique, this is a great easy way to begin. More information is online.
Meals and More: Did you know that we have a ministry that organizes meals and other assistance for church folks in times of need? In the past, we've helped arrange rides to medical appointments, meals for people recovering from surgery, and more. Leila Grantz coordinates this ministry, using online sign-up tools. If you want to be a part of the group that she emails when there is an opportunity to help, or if you know someone who's in need of a little help, please contact the church office or Leila.
This Week: Children, Youth & Adults
Nursery (6 weeks+): The Nursery is open during both services, for ages 6 weeks to 6 yrs old. Located right off of the parking lot across from Epworth Lounge. Any questions email the Nursery Coordinator: Adriana Hwang
Children's Ministry (age 3 - 3rd Grade & Church R Us: grades 4-5): This week's story: "New Heaven and Earth" (Revelation 21:1-6) Wearing "revelation goggles" can help us see things in new ways!
Church R Us (Special Class for Grades 4 & 5): We meet in the upstairs classroom above the nursery. This week we will read "New Heaven and Earth" (Revelation 21:1-6) Wearing "revelation goggles" can help us see things in new ways!
Youth Ministry (6th-12th grade):
-Yep!! Middle school Sunday School this week!
-Confirmation meetings are happening on Tuesday (4/26)!
-Youth Group? Yep, but just for High School! We're talking about dating, the imago dei, and the Two Greatest Commandments!
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. On Wednesday, April 27, Helen Stockwell will host and Don Pearson will share a taped lesson on prayer. On the first 3 Wednesdays in May, Stephen Hale will lead the Bible Study.
United Methodist News & Events
Our congregation is a part of the El Tordondo Mission Area, in the West District of the California-Pacific Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church.
General Conference 2016
The General Conference of our UMC will meet in Portland this year, from May 10-20. Pastor Molly will attend as a Reserve Delegate; George and Peggy Mercer will attend as volunteers. You can keep up with the meeting online. Also, please join others in praying for the gathering, especially on May 1, when our Cal-Pac Annual Conference lifts special prayers as part of a 60-day vigil.
First United Methodist Church of Redondo Beach
243 South Broadway
Redondo Beach, California 90277, United States
310-372-8445 main
310-372-8445 main
310-372-5696 fax
Website
Ongoing Ministries
Free Meal on Wednesday Nights
Offering food and friendship to those in need, every Wednesday night since 1992. More info here.
Choir & Our Music Ministry
Join our choir and lend your voice to help us worship God together. Choir rehearses most Wednesday nights, from 7:30-9pm. We are always looking for instrumentalists and musical guests, too. Contact Jim Raycroft for more info.
The California-Pacific Conference has introduced Safe Gatherings, an online abuse prevention program that screens and educates staff and volunteers to help prevent abuse of children, youth, and vulnerable adults in group settings.
Our congregation's staff and volunteers are participating in this program which includes an application, background check, and the online training every three years. (Some of you may have already received invitations to participate in the screening or provide a reference for one of our volunteers.)
We are excited to be a part of this new program as we continue to grow and offer a safe space for all.
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.
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.
The California-Pacific Conference has introduced Safe Gatherings, an online abuse prevention program that screens and educates staff and volunteers to help prevent abuse of children, youth, and vulnerable adults in group settings.
Our congregation's staff and volunteers are participating in this program which includes an application, background check, and the online training every three years. (Some of you may have already received invitations to participate in the screening or provide a reference for one of our volunteers.)
We are excited to be a part of this new program as we continue to grow and offer a safe space for all.
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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