Missionary Renegade: In Real Life Inbox x Updates x In Real Life Unsubscribe 12:26 AM (2 hours ago) to garyleeparker1. In Real Life Heaven's Portals Reality check Leading with Compassion What Is Church? Paddington Eyes Wide Open A Nice Vacation "When to Let Go" "Because I Can . . . " "Invitation from a Stranger" "Our Lenten Journey" Walk or Run Part 2 "Take Up Your Cross--What Does It Mean?" It's All about Love Living Authentically Selma: I Vote Yes The Happiest Place on Earth Walk or Run? Just Let Go! Fears of the unknown You have all seen them The Hundred-foot Journey - a film review Taking Inventory Happy New Year! Time to renovate in life... Counting my Blessings Prepare Yourself, Christmas is Coming! God's Kingdom Here and Now An Attitude of Gratitude No Way! God's love in the details A Thanksgiving Memory Zeke's God Book Accidental Friendship Peacemakers God's Beauty All Around Feeling Humbled Our Father, who art in Heaven… Pastor Mary's Movie Review Face Recognition Summer in Paradise Healing Prayers Robin Williams leaves this world A Moment in Time Summer Rain VBS moments Gratitude Moments, Growing Pains, & Prayer In Search of Still Waters Under Construction Working Through Fear Going Back to Special Places Million Dollar Arm - A film about transformation Worlds Beyond I love summer! Remembering Those Who Shape Our Stories Koinonia and the Holy Spirit Philomena, a film with many layers Eh…. Don’t forget to brush your teeth! Let us glow in the dark this Friday! Soul Searching in Lent Experiencing Vespers Monuments Men God's Faithfulness Rainy Day Interfaith Shelter Better to be Seen than Viewed Buck Loneliness Walking the labyrinth Baptism, a chance to begin anew Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service Saving Mr. Banks: Art Imitating Life, Imitating Art His Word Has Power Including God in Your Resolutions: 4 Questions What I see in the miracle of the light... Planting Kindness "12 Years a Slave" - film review Like a Drop in the Ocean Giving Thanks Nourishes Our Souls Have we lost our sense of mystery? Blackfish From Pool to Soul Chlorination Puppies and Sunrises He's not done with me yet It Takes a Village to Raise a Couple When lost in the fog, who do you trust? What song is God playing for you today? Not My Job Thin Places Baseball to the Rescue The Gift of Life Packing Lists Friendship Family Moves God works in mysterious ways Faith in times of loss God and Gardening What is the Holy Spirit? Love for a Child Let Memorial Weekend Begin! Fishing: A Lesson in Patience No Need for Super Heroes! Simple Gifts Boston - be strong, and let your heart take courage Hands of God Season of new beginnings Symbols of New Life Dry Wall Mudding with Jesus New Life What is Heaven Like? Sharing Your Hope Taking your relationship with God for granted? Bound Together "The House I Live In" Desperate to See God Beyond Sin, Beyond Self Light in the Darkness A New Year of Forgiveness I Love the Holiday Season! A not so peaceful reflection of “December Nights” Lincoln (the reel life) What can you serve-up to the world today? What does it mean to be spiritual? And through our hands... Here is what I think... The Decline of the Protestant Majority Stitches or Band-Aid? What keeps you from a road less traveled? Lessons in Hospitality Trouble with the Curve in Real Life Beyond the fluff Civility Drawn by Jesus' Love The Kingdom of God is within you A Helping Hand Kids in Community reflection “Little Einstein” Yard Sales and Wisdom of Grandmas Take Time to Refill Your Cup The Virgin Mary of Methodism Mulligans for Life A Fisherman's Secret Where was God? What Helps You Experience God? (Molly's) LAST BLOG POST!!! Cleaning Out the Garage Mason-Dixon Line Memorial Day Memories God in Nature: Slowing Down, Listening, Wherever You Are Amazing Grace this Mother’s Day Wrapped in Love and Prayer Gray Areas Urban Alley Defiance Delighting God Get real Heaven's Portals Posted: 25 Jun 2015 01:06 PM PDT I had the privilege of sitting up on the chancel a couple of weeks ago when serving as the 8:00 am liturgist. Facing west, the seat on the lectern side affords a great view of the church, congregation and the hundreds of window panels that light up with the shifting sun. I was thoroughly enjoying the organ music, choir singing and general feeling of worship, when I was suddenly struck with a real sense of being in a holy space. Looking at the west wall, I realized that the windows from the east wall were casting shadows and what looked to me like light bursts all along the sanctuary. For a few minutes, I found myself staring at these spots on the wall, feeling much like we had been given a rare opportunity to have the light and love of heaven shining into our church. While not exactly the case, it continues to be a comforting thought that every day at around 8:15 am (depending of course on the time of year, but for now, that is how it works out), dozens of heaven’s portals open up and bathe us in light. Cue the organ and the choir, add in some meaningful scripture, a stirring message, and the community of a congregation worshipping and taking communion together, and things are feeling good for the soul! If you catch me staring at the west wall during worship at the first service, take a moment to look up – and in – to a few of heaven’s portals…you will enjoy the time with God! Jan Newton, Executive Administrator Reality check Posted: 11 Jun 2015 11:11 AM PDT It was a huge reality check when I didn’t get to go to the college I had most hoped to attend. I remember when I applied to college, I felt certain that I wanted to go to one particular university – a Christian college near where I grew up. I was naively convinced I’d be attending the school of my choice – that of course God would want me to go to a Christian school, and I’d meet the school’s requirements. I applied to a few other schools, but was not seriously considering any of them. But that’s when I got my reality check. The financial aid I needed to go to the school of my choice did not come through, but another university did offer me enough to make it possible. However, that school was across the street from my grandmother’s house…and for a teenager looking for some new independence, it felt like starting college in my own front yard. To say I was disappointed would be putting it mildly. They say hindsight is 20/20, and in retrospect, I am so grateful to God for the path that I ended up taking. It didn’t take long once college began for me to fall in love with it – it was the place for me after all, and shaped me in incredible ways. The religious studies courses I took, the friends I made, the professors who mentored me, the strengthened relationship I was able to build with my grandparents, and meeting my amazing husband were all unforeseen blessings that going to this other college allowed me to experience. God turned my disappointment into provision. We all bring stories from our lives where we have longed for and experienced God at work. It is part of what we do, as a community of faith, that we share the ways that we have seen God's provision in our lives. It helps us to encourage one another as a church family and in our communities and families outside the church, so that when any of us are in need of that encouragement in faith or in times of struggle, we have stories that give us hope and people that show us how God is still at work in the world. May you be blessed as you share your story of God's faithfulness with others. Blessings, Jessica Leading with Compassion Posted: 04 Jun 2015 11:28 AM PDT This past Saturday I, along with about 17 other volunteers from our congregation, attended the 3rd annual Celebration of Compassion event at Cherokee Point Elementary. The event featured food, fun activities, workshops, and ideas about how to help make San Diego "a city of compassion." Pastor Jessica and I spent many months beforehand helping to plan and coordinate the event. It was decided that we would have a roving reporter and make a video with some of the teachers and students at Cherokee Point and ask them this question,"What does Compassion mean to you"? I was so moved by the children’s answers to the question that I found myself, more than once, wiping away escaping tears See what the kids at Cherokee Point have to say about compassion! https://vimeo.com/129724177 As I reflected on the question, I first thought about the meaning of compassion and liked it being described in this way, "the meaning of compassion is to recognize the suffering of others, then take action to help." And that is exactly what I witnessed beingdemonstrated by our volunteers, who have a very deep understanding of the needs of the families we serve at Cherokee Point. According to Cherokee Point Principal,Godwin Higa, “Many of the kids from the Cherokee Point neighborhood come from families under a lot of stress. Families with domestic violence. Neglectful families.Severely traumatized families. Military families where dad or mom keeps going off to a scary war. All of the school’s families are low income. They struggle to put enough food on the table. A trip to the dentist is a luxury.” At the end of every event hosted at Cherokee Point when the families and children are present, food (from one of SD’s local food banks), is always sent home with them as they are leaving. One of our volunteers who was helping to pack the food for the families, realized that most of the families there were without transportation. They were walking with children and strollers in tow and getting that food home was not going to be an easy task. He left the event and went and purchased bags to help sort the food more efficiently. He and the other volunteers spent most of their time there that day, planning, organizing, sorting, and bagging food in a way that would be most helpful to the families getting it back home. Compassion in action, he recognized suffering and he took the action to help. Compassion can be expressed in many ways by doing good for others, offering up a smile or kind words or being present to someone who may be in need of a listening ear. If you are volunteering or considering volunteering at Cherokee Point Elementary school you are invited to a presentation by Principal Godwin Higa, that will focus on the topic of Trauma Informed Schools and what it looks like to lead with compassion. To sign up go to www.fumcsd.org/tie. Brenda Blake, Church and Community Worker What Is Church? Posted: 28 May 2015 03:17 PM PDT For about a month, I have been aware that many things I am doing pastorally I am doing for the last time. Whenever things come to an end, we are aware that certain things will be done for the last time. On May 20 I presided over my last Vespers service and that was hard. That service has been a place where I both worshiped and led worship. This Sunday, May 31, Pastor Elbert and I will share in our last worship with you. Some time ago I read Barbara Brown Taylor’s Book, Leaving Church--her journey of leaving the parish ministry. I understood her sense of longing for the familiar and yet the call to a new place in her life. I am not leaving the church, I am leaving a community that is the church. Church in not a place, a building, and especially not an institution. Church is connection to God, self, and those in a community. We share communion, not just in bread and wine, but a common union in the darkness of life when loved ones die, when children are born and the light returns; when people are joyous and when they are sad. We share this with each other and with God as a community that share the knowledge of, not just the belief in, something larger. We connect with each other and with God and we celebrate and mourn together and are connected for eternity. God is our shared point and we carry each other with the knowledge and trust in each other. We hold, cherish and carry each other’s lives and souls. For sixteen years I have been among you and for eight years I have been deeply privileged to be a pastor to you. You have been my community. You have supported and believed in me when I did not believe in myself and I have been allowed into sacred space with you. I have been allowed into your lives. Nothing is more sacred, meaningful or bonding than this and I deeply appreciate it. What I will always remember is the candles each of you held Christmas Eve that lights the world and your faces. What I cherish is each face that comes to have water placed in the shape of a cross on your forehead and to be reminded of your baptism and each set of hands that reached for the bread I held as we shared in communion. What I will always remember is your dedication to something deeper. And the love I have felt from you that affirmed me. I cannot thank you enough for the friendship and connection that is community. May God continue to lead each of you in seeking that which is most meaningful; connection with God and those who seek God together no matter where we are. God bless you always. Pastor Greg, Director, New Life Center Paddington Posted: 21 May 2015 10:24 AM PDT Based on a children’s story, this rare Peruvian young bear travels alone to London to find a family. Colin Firth adeptly is the voice of Paddington. Nicole Kidman in a unique role, plays the villain. This is a heartwarming story of an English-speaking bear sent to London 40 years after an explorer spares his family. Let me rephrase that. The explorer might say he spared the bears, while the bear family would say that they saved the explorer from an untimely insect bite. Once in London, Paddington brings chaos to the Brown family, much in need of some old-fashioned chaos. Mr. Brown manages risk for a living and has lost all spontaneity; the family is disjointed and distant. The action scenes are amazing and you will find yourself laughing out loud. The bathroom scene is hysterical. And don’t miss the moment in the movie when Paddington is nervous about riding a down escalator. Upon seeing a sign “Carry dogs,” he bucks up, finds a dog to carry, and rides down; much to the chagrin of the dog owner. The movie has interesting commentary on the nature of family. Yes, family may include a bear with a disturbing orange marmalade habit. This is a joy for any family, human or otherwise. Mary Allman-Boyle, Executive Pastor Eyes Wide Open Posted: 14 May 2015 04:49 PM PDT In 1976, I found a $50 bill on the ground outside the Mission Hills library. I turned it in at the desk, no one claimed it, and two weeks later, I was $50 richer–-just for going to the library and paying attention to what was on the ground next to the bike racks! While this little story is entertaining enough, what makes it more impactful is the fact that nearly 40 years later, I not only remember that experience, but also still find myself scanning along the ground when I am out, just keeping my eyes open for anything that might be out there. I caught myself doing it again this weekend while I was out running and was struck by the fact that the “gift” of finding $50 as a 10-year old has had a lasting a permanent impact on me. As my thoughts wandered along the many times that I have consciously and subconsciously looked along the ground, I was struck by the fact that I need to put as much energy into looking specifically for God – not just the hope of a $50 bill – in my daily activities. Think about it. Where have you seen and felt God in your life? Chances are that right here and now, you can count off an easy 3 or 4 times, and if you really started to focus on it, you could make a list at least a dozen items long! As I was running and making the list of the places where I felt God reaching out to me, I realized that I need to start paying better attention to duplicate the great joy and happiness that comes from these “gifts” from God. Standing in line at the Post Office--pay attention! Pumping gas at 7-11--look alive! Getting my iPhone screen fixed (again)--smile and engage! Each of these scenarios in the past has proven to be a moment when God reached out to me and or through me to connect with another and feel the grace of His love. Making it part of my daily excursion to seek Him and look for God in all that I do needs to become a new “normal” and one that will continue to enrich my life with the gifts of His grace and love. Here’s to each of us seeking out the gift of God by paying attention to everything that is going on around us--be it at the library, on the ground, in the parking lot, or wherever--God is always looking to meet us right where we are. Jan Newton, Executive Administrator A Nice Vacation Posted: 07 May 2015 05:17 PM PDT I have some cousins who live in Colorado and a few weeks ago I had the opportunity to fly there for five days. The last time I went to Colorado was about 10 years ago. It was so nice to get away and leave work and school at home. I flew out on a Monday and when I arrived the weather was beautiful. It was about 50 degrees and the sky was clear. However, within a few hours some thunderstorms rolled in. Having lived in California my whole life, this was a treat! I enjoyed every minute of it. Then without any notice, it started to snow. I felt like a kid on Christmas morning. I was literally jumping up and down saying, “It’s snowing, it’s snowing.” It only snowed for about five minutes and then became clear again. My uncle told me “If you don’t like the weather in Colorado just wait five minutes.” He was so right. Almost all week it would rain hard for a few minutes, stop, and then the skies would clear. It was kind of weird to experience so many different “seasons.” Besides experiencing some “weather” I also did a lot of sight-seeing. My aunt took us to some beautiful rock formations called “Garden of the Gods.” In this national park there are huge red rock formations sticking up out of the ground. It was like someone punched these rocks up out of the surface. It was so much fun walking around staring at these formations that were easily 200 feet high. In Colorado there are 57 peaks that break 14,000 feet, including Pikes Peak, which is near the Garden of the Gods. We were able to get up to about 12,000 feet and see into Kansas. In our final touristy activity we went to “Cave of the Winds,” a cave that goes a few miles deep into a mountain. Inside we saw beautiful stalagtites and stalagmites and some of the clearest ponds and streams. At the end of the tour, our guide turned off the lights in the cave and we were unable to see our hands in front of our faces, no matter how close we got it. It was a really nice vacation that refreshed and renewed my spirit for the summer, which is going to be a busy one for me. I have one more class and I will be done with my Masters of Divinity, then I will be going to Annual Conference to help with the youth program, staying at Camp Cedar Glen for a week to help with the High School Summer camp, and going to Walker River, Nevada, with our youth group for a mission trip. This was the perfect vacation to get ready for all that is ahead. Richard Annett, Director of Student Ministries "When to Let Go" Posted: 29 Apr 2015 04:38 PM PDT We went with some friends to see the play “White Snake” the other day at The Old Globe Theater. It was very visually compelling, with material dropping delicately from the ceiling, actors moving gracefully around the stage (and performing with incredible skill), and beautiful costuming. But the adventure started earlier than that: the great hunt for a place to park. It seems everyone was at Balboa Park that Saturday! There was a student Shakespeare Festival, there was a performance at the Organ Pavilion, the Art Museum is showing “Art Alive,”…it was very crowded with people and art of all sorts. We thought we were arriving early, but soon we realized we were much too late to make the opening curtain. If you’re like me, and greatly dislike being late, than you know how unfortunate that is. It was one of those moments where you just have to let go – recognizing that life does happen – and take some deep breaths. Knowing when to let go and when to take something up is wisdom that is so important in our lives. What have you let go of lately, and how did it feel? What did letting go allow you to take up? Is there anything new you have taken up lately? An activity, a friendship, a new exercise routine, a new spiritual practice? What has embracing this new thing allowed you to let go of? We did eventually make it in to see the play, and enjoyed seeing it with our friends. In the performance, the main characters let go of all kinds of things. They let go of doubts, they let go of the life they had planned, they let go of concerns for self in order to risk on behalf of another they loved. These same characters also took up new things: new relationships, new forms (the main characters were snakes who could change themselves into people!), new futures for themselves and ways of helping others. We often talk about seeking balance in our lives, and when we do, I think we are also talking about letting some things go and taking other things up. As a church and as followers of Jesus, we want to let go of things that hold us back from loving God and loving others with all that we are. We want to take up relationships and practices that help us to be all that God calls us to be. Sometimes, even something as simple as searching for a parking space can remind us of what we’re really searching for, and about the priorities that matter most. Blessings, Jessica Rev. Jessica Strysko, Pastor of Missions and Family Ministry "Because I Can . . . " Posted: 22 Apr 2015 05:37 PM PDT I am excited to share with you that we recently celebrated the launch of our very first *Missional Community gathering for our Loaves & Fishes Ministry. Gathered were about 30 people who came together to enjoy food, fellowship, and share stories with one another regarding their experiences in this ministry. The highlight of the evening for me was that I had the opportunity to sit back and really listen to and appreciate the stories being shared by volunteers who have served for many years as well as newer volunteers. Whether they were serving on a Saturday repacking team, Sunday distribution team, or picking up food in the community, what was really apparent in listening to their stories was the deep sense of connection and commitment they felt to serving and helping meet the needs of hungry people in our own community. As I sat reflecting on what was being said, I found myself thinking about a woman from our congregation, who has since passed on, and her seemingly tireless efforts to help those living in poverty. I was always intrigued by her endless energy and how it seemed, no matter what the circumstance, she always went above and beyond to help anyone in need, (sounds like many of our volunteers!) most especially, making sure they had something to eat. It seemed every time I saw her she was carrying some type of food in her arms for someone in need. One day, I decided to ask her why she did so much and always with such great love and enthusiasm. She gave me a very simple and sincere answer. She said, “Because I can.” As I listened to her voice I was reminded of this passage from Luke: “From everyone to whom much has been given, much will be required; and from the one to whom much has been entrusted, even more will be demanded.” - Luke 12:48 As the evening came to a close, I was filled with such a deep sense of gratitude and appreciation for those who dedicate their lives, on a daily basis, to living out their call to serve others. If you would like to learn about ways you can be in service to people living in poverty in our community and would like to hear more about being in a Missional Community (or starting a new one) please feel free to contact me. Brenda Blake, Director, Church and Community Work *A Missional Community is a group of people, about the size of an extended family, who are united through Christian community around a common service and witness to a particular neighborhood or network of relationships. "Invitation from a Stranger" Posted: 16 Apr 2015 11:24 AM PDT Two weeks ago I was doing Vespers. Holy Week was coming and I was going to teach a class that night after Vespers and the evening meal on the Last Week of Jesus' life. We would be examining the events of Good Friday. I conducted Vespers which is always very personally meaningful to me. Gazing out the window at the garden and oak tree at the cross in the fading light while Stan played some marvelous meditation music, I wondered what the Garden of Gethsemane was like. What was it like when Jesus was there and in such pain as he faced a decision? I find peace in the garden outside the sanctuary window, but his garden experience must have been quite different and I am sure he felt alone. After Vespers I was walking up the center isle greeting people and noticed a couple in their 60s whose faces were unknown to me. I greeted them and asked if they were visitors. They said "yes." In fact, they were here visiting from Kansas and had been over in the shopping center when they struck up a conversation with a man who said he was a member here and they should come by for Vespers if they had nothing else to do. So they came. They asked who one man in the congregation was because they thought he might be the man who had given them the invitation and wanted to thank him. I responded and went on my way after telling them how glad we were they came. When I entered Linder Hall on my way to set up for class I noticed this couple had stayed for the meal and were conversing with everyone at their table. I thought how wonderful; they found the person who invited them and stayed to have a meal together. The couple then came to my class. When they came in I greeted them again and said I was so glad that they had found the person who invited them to Vespers and stayed. They told me they never found the man they had met in the shopping center who had invited them. No one in the Hall was the man they had met, but they chose to stay anyway. After the class ended the woman of this couple approached me and asked for a moment so we found a quiet spot in the hall and sat down. She confided to me that they had had a phone call from a neighbor back in Kansas that day telling them the neighbor’s daughter had been murdered. This woman and her husband looked at me and tearfully asked, “What do I say to my friends?” My response was, “just be there for them.” I told them there was nothing that they could say that would make it better... but their loving presence would hold them in God’s love. They left. An invitation from a stranger that brings a couple to a church where they find companionship, hospitality, peace and comfort. Who was the man that invited them? In once sense I guess it doesn’t matter. In another sense in may be the living Christ. Pastor Greg "Our Lenten Journey" Posted: 01 Apr 2015 11:14 AM PDT Being a proud member of the Christian community, I have spent the last six weeks preparing for and anticipating Easter. As the years pass and I experience the Lenten journey from Ash Wednesday through Easter, it is sometimes surprising to me just how unique and more meaningful I am able to experience it every year. The juxtaposition of great joy and great despair struck me again this past week as I looked out at the plain wooden cross amongst a tapestry of color on our hillside behind the altar. I found myself staring at the contrast of the weathered wood and the fresh grass and flowers; the simplicity of the cross against the complexity of nature...all here by design and in complete love for us. I would have thought that given the number of Easters I have celebrated in my life, this Holy Week would be a routine that I am accustomed to, one that I know exactly what to expect, and one that would feel comfortable and familiar to me. I must admit that instead, I am feeling on-edge, a little sad, and very uncertain...and I know how things work out in the end! Looking out on the cross on the hillside, I am filled with a certain sense of calm in this time of discomfort. We each have our own Lenten journey, but when it is through the cross, we all come through it together, triumphant and jubilant in the life of our risen Lord. May each of you be blessed on your own Lenten journey and know that our God is a loving and wondrous father, caring for and loving each of us exactly where we are, as we are. Jan Newton, Executive Administrator Walk or Run Part 2 Posted: 26 Mar 2015 01:20 PM PDT Whenever I write these blogs I always look back on my previous ones to see what I wrote about last. I do this for two reasons, first, to make sure that I am not repeating myself and second, to see if there is anything I need to report in on. I’ve done this a couple of times and I think it is working out so far. RunningI was looking back at my last post, called “Walk or Run,” which was basically about running to a finish line instead of walking to it. After I wrote that post I started to run in many areas of my life, not just school (what I was talking about in the previous blog). After I reread the post, I started to think more about walking or running, and with it being so close to Easter, my mind went straight to Jesus. I started to ask myself questions about Jesus -- did he ever walk in his life? I am not talking about physically walking, of course he physically walked. Rather, did Jesus ever slow down or was he always running to the cross? I don’t know why, but this question has stuck with me. Did Jesus ever slow down? We don’t hear about Jesus slowing down. Yes, he had obstacles before him and there were times when he went off and prayed to his Father. But did he ever slow down like we do sometimes? Did Jesus ever relax -- maybe kick his feet up on a table he made, after healing some people in a city, and eat some food with his buddies? I can’t think of anywhere in scripture that tells us he did or didn't relax. I know there are times in my life where I slow down; I kick my feet up when in all honesty I shouldn’t. The reason why this question has been on my mind so much is because I know he didn’t slow down during Holy Week. In fact he kept running. He kept running to the cross. It made me really reflect on if I am running as deeply and passionately as Jesus? Or do I need to speed up? I personally don’t think Jesus ever slowed down. I think everything that he did and said was for the cross. But I am still working through this. I am still asking myself these questions about Jesus and my own life. Richard Annett, Director of Student Ministries "Take Up Your Cross--What Does It Mean?" Posted: 19 Mar 2015 03:24 PM PDT I had the opportunity to preach recently about what it takes to be a follower of Jesus. Jesus says in Mark 8:34 “If any want to become my followers, let them deny themselves, take up their cross, and follow me.” As I shared in my sermon, this text led me to think about and notice the crosses all around me, and to pray that God would help me understand these words more deeply so that I might put them into action in my life. One of the first things I noticed is how "happy" we make the cross look. We have re-appropriated a symbol that used to mean oppression, torture, and brutality, and have made it a symbol of hope, wholeness, and even joy! In many ways I see this move as extremely positive – as proof that light shines in the darkness, and the darkness cannot overcome it. That God can redeem and reclaim even the worst areas of human life. It also presents a challenge for us, of course, as we try and understand what Jesus means when he says “take up your cross.” This is a call to sacrifice, and to remember that our very lives belong to God. Trying to keep ourselves safe is a human priority; following Jesus as he loves and serves others is a divine priority. After one of the Sanctuary worship services, someone stopped me to make sure I knew about the crosses, made out of white stones, that are embedded in the floor at the entrance of the three sets of doors that lead to the lower Sanctuary. I had forgotten about these wonderful testaments of faith, and proclamations about why we enter this space of worship: we seek to follow Jesus, to deny ourselves, to take up our cross. Other congregants pointed out crosses they found on cars, on the sides of the pews, in windows as they went about their work weeks, etc. It has been such a blessing to me to see these symbols of hope and sacrifice in so many places – not that they had not been there before, but in the busyness of life and its distractions, I had not seen them. As the season of Lent will soon come to a close, and Holy Week draws near, I want to continue the practice of noticing hope and sacrifice in unlikely, everyday places. And I want to continue to hear Jesus’ words as a challenge to follow him – not just in times of joy, but when it requires true, costly sacrifice. Rev. Jessica Strysko, Pastor of Missions and Family Ministry It's All about Love Posted: 12 Mar 2015 10:41 AM PDT Another shelter rotation has come and gone and I am feeling very blessed and peaceful. This rotation was an exceptional one on many levels. In my last blog, a few weeks ago, I was trying to encourage more church members to sign up to volunteer for various tasks, and most of all to consider being an overnight host. I am beyond pleased to share with you that we had 13 new volunteers this year. And more than half were overnight hosts. And, when asked if they would stay again next year, all said yes! That includes the ones I called on more than once to fill in after getting last minute cancellations. The next reason I feel this year was an exceptionally good one was because all 11 of our guests were perfect candidates for this particular shelter program. Each was motivated and focused on their goals of moving toward self-sufficiency and permanent housing. All expressed at one time or another during their stay how very grateful they were to our church (and other churches) for opening our doors and allowing this space to become a temporary home. A home where they had plenty of healthy food to eat, a place to shower, and perhaps most importantly, a safe place, off the streets, to sleep. And yet again, I had the awesome privilege of seeing members of our congregation actively living out their faith in word and deed. Each time I witnessed one of these moments I was reminded of one of my favorite Mother Teresa quotes; “In this life we cannot do great things. We can only do small things with great love.” Among my favorite moments were these acts of service, acts of love, I witnessed: every single volunteer, without exception, offered warmth, hospitality, and kind and encouraging words and made our guests feel very welcome here. As one guest stated, “I feel so comfortable with everyone, it feels like home.” Another made up a backpack for our two-year-old guest and put in a warm blanket and baby doll. Mom reported she wrapped the child in the blanket to protect her from the cold and rain on a particularly dismal day during their stay. Then there were the 11 McDonald gift cards two members purchased through out Heart of Christianity Sunday school class that they donated to give to each one in the shelter. These were more appreciated than I have the words to tell you! And there were so many meals, made with so much love. Remember that Chicken Taco Stew I told you about in my last blog? Not only did she walk in with the three pots of stew, but she had several bags of items to go with it. She set right to work chopping up the fresh cilantro, putting out chips and salsa; “after all,” she told me, “you have to have all the side things with it or it just wouldn’t be the same!” Upon leaving, only two of our guests had transitioned into a more permanent living situation. Please join me, in keeping the other nine and all of the people in our world who are seeking food and shelter in our prayers. Brenda Blake, Church and Community Worker Living Authentically Posted: 05 Mar 2015 11:12 AM PST On Ash Wednesday we began the season of Lent, and it was, again, a real privilege to be part of the service; to offer and share communion, to be reminded that we are mortal, and that Jesus chose to become human with us out of love for us. My original call to ministry was when I was an acolyte in a Lutheran church at age 14, during a Maundy Thursday Tenebrae Service. Tenebrae is a Latin word for ”shadows” or darkness.” This is a dramatic service the night before Good Friday. The light in the sanctuary is slowly diminished until the entire sanctuary is dark as the service finishes. At the end of the service a loud sound is made, usually a strident chord on the organ signifying Jesus' death. The light of the world goes out--for a time. We leave the service in silence as the altar is stripped. What impressed me this past Ash Wednesday was the call to be authentic and real. As a therapist this is hallmark; helping people find out who they really are, instead of living a life of “shoulds.” Feeling and thinking what we are told to think and feel, instead of what we genuinely think and feel, is what therapy and wholeness is truly about. When so many of us are told how to think and feel, deny who we really are inside, life goes dark--inside and out. Indeed, when we do this the world grows darker. We lose, or forsake, who we really are, and our genuine interests, for those desired by others until we no longer know who we really are. True darkness results. To live authentically requires knowing who we really are, what we truly think and feel, and being authentic to that inner being. Our society puts great pressure on us to conform, rather than transform. To become who we really are can threaten the established order and so we conform rather than transform. Scripture is the story of individuals, a specific group of people, called to become who they really are, and that invariably involves difficulty and challenge. At times these individuals refused to be genuine, and the Jews failed to be who they genuinely were called to be at times, but God remained faithful. Living authentically is the call we all receive. Jesus is the ultimate example of living an authentic life. Being who he really was, being who God called him to be despite political and religious pressure, was his life's work, and what he came to teach us. Ultimately being who he was so threatened the political and religious institutions that they struck out at him and killed him. Gandhi and Martin Luther King are contemporary examples of being and living authentically that had consequences, and that led also to the betterment of all mankind. Swiss psychiatrist, Carl Jung, once noted that living authentically could change the world if each individual would connect with their authentic self. If each of us becomes who God has made us to be and brings the genuine gift planted in us from before we were born, then all of us benefit. We can impact our immediate world and those around us by living an authentic and fulfilling life. Use this Lenten time to explore what it means for you to live an authentic life. And trust God to help bring you the understanding of who you are in Christ and put light into the world by doing so. Pastor Greg Selma: I Vote Yes Posted: 26 Feb 2015 09:27 AM PST To honor Martin Luther King Weekend, John and I attended the movie, Selma. This powerful movie was appropriately released on the 50th year of the Voting Rights Act. The Civil Rights Movement needed to focus on how to bring about change. The scene where they explored various options was compelling. How do you prevent violence? How do they let justice roll down? How do you live without fear of bombings and brutality? They debated: how could there be justice without true vote and voice? If you cannot vote, you cannot serve on a jury. Without equal representation on juries, trials are biased. Without the vote, you cannot turn out corrupt and racist sheriffs and elected officials. How can you have justice without the vote? The scene when Oprah Winfrey’s character, Annie Lee Cooper, went before the county official for her voting exam, was disturbing. “Does your employer know you are here?” The questioning escalated from questions about the constitution to names of counties, to names of officials. No one could possibly pass this oral exam! And yet, she returned over and over again after more study and memorization. So the vote is what they would focus on. I found myself narrating the current lives of the characters. Oh there is the Andrew Young, who went onto be Mayor of Atlanta and the U.S. Ambassador to the U. N. Rosie Greer was a football player and activist. And there is John Lewis, an important voice and someone who went onto be a US Congressman and is still in congress today. Three days after our viewing, Rep. John Lewis was front and center in the images of the President’s State of the Union Address to Congress. In many ways we have come a long way. In many ways we have not. Our friends of color are still stopped by police and treated differently. How can we rest comfortably when a child with a play gun is shot and that decision to shoot and kill is made in two minutes without appropriate steps of intervention? How can we encourage everyone to exercise the hard won right and obligation to vote? Amos 5:24: “But let justice roll down like waters and righteousness like an ever-flowing stream." May it be so! Amen I encourage you to watch Selma! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x6t7vVTxaic Rev. Mary Allman-Boyle, Executive Pastor The Happiest Place on Earth Posted: 19 Feb 2015 11:31 AM PST The Newton’s took some vacation time earlier this month, a day of which included a trip to the self-proclaimed happiest place on earth – Disneyland. I will not deny the lure of the Mouse House and the fun that we enjoyed there; a fun that was had in family time together, enjoying the sights, the sounds, the rides, and our fair share of meals, treats, and snacks. We have many photos (including a batch of shameless selfies) to validate that a good time was had by all and, indeed, we are very happy when we are all together. As we reflected on our day and what made it so great – so HAPPY – I was struck by how we are able to transform a day at an amusement park into something described as the happiest place on earth, yet often struggle to see the joy, beauty and happiness that a life together in God brings to each of us. I am not advocating that we abandon a day at Disneyland as a source of fun – rather, we take that same zeal, energy, and enthusiasm and apply it to our daily life… the place where we constantly live and engage with one another. We are called to love God and serve one another; if each of us embraced this calling and did our very best to live it out every waking moment, it would undoubtedly have a transformational and remarkable impact on the world, making EVERY place the happiest on earth. Throw in some ice cream, and this life in God indeed has it all! Jan Newton Walk or Run? Posted: 12 Feb 2015 11:15 AM PST I have been in school for the past 22 years of my life, not including preschool. Out of those 22 years I have been going to school non-stop for nine years, only getting a break after summer school, before fall, and then during the winter. I have to say, I am getting burned out and I have the worst case of senioritis in the world right now. I currently have three more classes left and then I am officially finished with my Masters of Divinity. Seminary is an amazing experience and I am totally enjoying it. I love the professors that I have; I love my classmates and the relationships that are being built. However, I am not going to lie, getting my homework and reading done is a little tedious. I sit down, look at the work that is before me, and time just seems to slow down. You know in those movies where they slow down the film, frame by frame. That is what it feels like when I am doing homework. Five minutes go by and it feels like forty-five. Sometimes I am ready to pull out the little hair that I have on my head. At the same time, I know I can’t give up, I’m almost there. A wise person once told me, “You don’t walk to the finish line in a race, you run.” I am six months away from being done with my Masters. That is 180 days, 4,320 hours, and 259,200 minutes. I need to start running and I think I am going to, and then I can stop and get a drink of water and get ready for the next race; A Master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy. Richard Annett, Director of Student Ministries Just Let Go! Posted: 05 Feb 2015 05:43 PM PST It’s been a while since I’ve written about my dogs, so I thought it was time to share another story about them. I have to hold myself back so that not every blog post is about Spartacus (our poodle mix) and Merlin (our boxer mix). They bring my husband and I a lot of joy, and if you’ve ever been a pet owner, you know that they hold a special place in your heart and life. As you can see in this picture of them, our dogs to play together – especially tug-of-war, even though they are quite different in size. As a result, toys do not last long in our house, and the best toys have plenty of space for two sets of canine teeth and a good place for human hands to grip. Fortunately for the dogs, we are well supplied. Recently, we had a life group gathering at our home and when things were wrapping up, we let the dogs out and they were doing their usual entertaining. There was much laughter, a few plates and glasses that were unintentionally shared, and a few cell phone videos created. At one point, Merlin had the end of one toy that Spartacus just refused to let go of, and the result was that Spartacus slid across the laminate floor. At another point they traded playful growls, shaking their heads to try and loosen the other’s grip, and scouting backwards to try and yank it away. We spend a lot of time watching scenes like this in our house, and we love the joy it brings others who see it for the first time. Watching our dogs play tug-of-war can be a comical reminder to me of how important – and how difficult it is – for human beings in particular to let go. Whether it is our need to take time to relax and renew (letting go of the to-do list), or our need to practice forgiveness (letting go of past hurts), we can all use a reminder from time-to-time to let go. The upcoming Ash Wednesday speaker, the Rev. Nicole Riley, will be speaking to us on this subject “Just Let Go” as we prepare to enter the season of Lent once more. Letting go is not easy, and we aren’t always sure exactly when to do it. But our church family is a great place to begin asking the question of how to trust God more and more – which is what it takes if we are to truly let go of the things that keep us weighed down. I love it when the antics of puppies lead me to spiritual reflection – and it happens more than you could imagine. God is good, God is in our laughter and our times of joy, as well as present to comfort us in times of sorrow and loss. May God’s presence be visible to you today and always! Pastor Jessica Fears of the unknown Posted: 29 Jan 2015 06:38 PM PST It’s almost that time again... In just a few short weeks from now (February 22 through March 8) our Interfaith Shelter guests will be arriving on our campus for a two week stay. I am so pleased that our Congregation has participated in this ministry for most of the 29 years of the program’s existence. As we begin preparing for our guest’s arrival there is much work to be done. As you might imagine, it takes many volunteers to help get everything in place to ensure that our guests are comfortable and well cared for during their visit with us. When I put my signup sheets out looking for volunteers to prepare an evening meal and for overnight hosting I am always excited to see how quickly the sheets fill up for the meals. Time and again I have the privilege of listening to volunteers talk about the dishes they will loving prepare and serve our guests. Many worry about making sure they are not duplicating dishes, or asking how the food can be kept hot while waiting to be served or how much they should make. I was inspired this week when one of our church members signed up to make three pots of Chicken Taco Stew the day after she gets back from a one week work trip out of town and the day before she goes back to school! I ask her if she was sure she wanted to do this and without hesitation she commented, “Absolutely!” The overnight hosting list fills up less quickly. Often volunteers express some fears of the unknown. Who are these people we are hosting? Where do they come from? Do they come in right off of the street? These are great questions to ask and I hope I can help provide a little insight into the process our guests undertake before being admitted to the shelter. Shelter guests are only sent to congregations in the Network after being screened by an area Social Service agency to assure there will be no active drug, alcohol, or mental health issues. Each guest is working closely with the referring social service agency to resolve the problems leading to their homelessness. I am always filled with joy when an overnight host, who may have had some discomfort about staying overnight, tells me how awesome the experience was and yes, please sign me up again! For more information... Brenda Blake, Director, Church & Community Work You have all seen them Posted: 22 Jan 2015 05:47 PM PST All of us have seen “them”. As we drive around town we inevitably come to a stop light and find a disheveled person standing there with a sign asking for help and assistance. Always ending with “God Bless You” as if to remind us that God loves a cheerful giver and it is our as Christians to care for others… at times it feels a bit manipulative. After all if I give them money how do I know I am not enabling them to buy drugs or alcohol. Just last Sunday a young man came into the church office on Sunday morning and I was not in one of our worship services so I took him to get a cup of coffee and listen to a story I was sure I had heard before from other like him. He had on shorts and it was a very cold morning. He wanted some clothes and money for a trolley pass. We don’t give out cash, but Brenda Blake and Nancy Pritchett helped me package up some food and I had a McDonalds gift card I had purchased from our Hearts of Christianity Class. They sell them so we can give them out instead of cash. You can get them on Sunday mornings in Linder Hall for $5, but I felt a bit “worked”. I eventually gave that young man $10 cash, because I realized I am called to give... he is responsible for how he uses that money. We all have seen them and had our encounters with them. But two members of our church had an encounter with one over a period of years. His name was Harry, and he had a story. Gary and Myrna Cox who sing in our choir and they used to see Harry every winter when they were commuting between here and Colorado. He caught their attention and over the years they learned Harry’s story. They eventually published a book about their relationship with him titled “Harry”. They gifted me a copy just before Christmas and I finally sat down to read it. Gary and Myrna have become friends I respect, but I did not expect the story to affect me the way it did. Harry was a person, not a category. This blog is not the place to tell the entire story, and, really, it isn’t mine to tell. But I invited Gary and Myrna to come to the 8 AM, Koinonia class and share their story of their relationship with Harry. It had quite an impact. In Matthew 25 there is a place where Jesus says, “when you have done it unto the least of these, you have done it unto to me.” Then there is that pesky “Good Samaritan” story. Gary and Myrna, and their friend Harry, reminded me of these stories from scripture. Jesus calls us to close the distance and see the person, not the category. They also reminded me that as long as we categorize people as “them” and those” we relate to them as a group, not as individuals with unique lives and stories... but as human beings. Harry wasn’t lazy. Harry was lost. Gary and Myrna found him and treated him as an individual with a story. And it is a good story. Labels keep people at a distance. We have a fund in Harry’s name you can give to. Call the Finance office or me for more information. Pastor Greg The Hundred-foot Journey - a film review Posted: 15 Jan 2015 11:33 AM PST This week was full of terror in France. Attacks on cartoonists, a Kosher Deli, a policewoman, and our sense of security and freedom of expression. Our hearts go out to those families as well the families of the world. It may seem odd to write about a movie at these difficult times. But this movie, I believe, speaks a word of truth into our situation. Without giving away the whole story, the trailers inform that this family migrates from India due to violence perpetrated on them. Hassan, the narrator as a young man, is not even sure the nature or reasoning of the violence other than different backgrounds; and politics. As they try to find a new home in Europe, there are glimpses of prejudices. Border agents who wonder if the young sister is a mail order bride or that Hassan is really a cook or exagerating his skill set to be allowed into Europe. As they locate in the south of France, some are gracious while others are fearful of the different. Fear of an Indian Restaurant only a hundred feet away from a renowned French restaurant brings its troubles and hatred ensues. While there are mixed reviews, I recommend this movie. The movie explores love and romance on many levels. And the common language of culinary arts transcends cultural differences. Oprah Winfrey and Steven Spielberg, who have brought other important works about racism, bring us this work at a timely moment. If only the spice of life could bridge the cultural divides and bring unity and love as in this movie. May it be so. Rev. Mary Allman-Boyle Watch the movie trailer... Taking Inventory Posted: 08 Jan 2015 10:44 AM PST For the last eight or nine years, we have tried to make it a tradition in the Newton household to take a family photo on New Year's Day. In addition to capturing the subtle changes in our hair and clothing styles as the years progress, it is also a good way for us to keep track of how many dogs we have and who they are! My husband (with a lot of encouragement from our daughter) is a notorious dog collector—'Softie' I call him—who spends a lot of hours at a local no-kill shelter walking the dogs deemed "too wild" or "too strong" for the other volunteers to take out. Many of these dogs have been waiting upwards of three years to be adopted and on occasion David gets very attached to one, sells me on their hard-luck story, and then brings them home to live with us. Looking back on our photos over the years and remembering all of the fun that we have had trying to get everyone to face forward at the same time makes me think about how God must take "inventory" of us. Much like a loving parent, I imagine Him to watch us with love and joy as we experience the ups and downs of our daily lives, taking great delight when we make the time to spend with Him and recognize all that He provides for us. We all have a hard-luck story of some kind, but we also all have a Heavenly Father who loves us greatly and provides so much for us. It is good to take inventory of these things and be a part of the inventory process too. I am delighted to be counted among God's many beloved and precious children, never too wild or too strong to be a part of God's family. Jan Newton Happy New Year! Posted: 01 Jan 2015 09:46 AM PST It's 2015, I can’t believe it is a New Year! How can 2014 already be over? Every year millions of people try to make a New Year’s resolutions, including myself. Sometimes I succeed and sometimes I don’t. This past year I succeed in my resolution. A few days before the New Year, I usually think about that to do, what I should change or work on. Usually its stuff like surf more, get in shape, be happier, get organize, things that most people tend to think about. This past year however, I decided to change up how to come up with my resolution. I decided that I should spend some time praying about what God wanted me to work on. I knew that God loved me just the way I was, but I also knew that God wanted me to become the best I could. So I sat in prayer for a few days in the morning thinking about what I should work on. I also did some research on how to succeed in your New Year’s Resolution and I found some interesting facts about why people tend to fail. Most people fail because their goals aren’t realistic, they don’t plan ahead or map it out, and they beat themselves up when they fail. At first, my resolution was to lose weight and get in shape to look better. With the information I had on how to succeed and I realized that was a pretty unrealistic goal, and pretty vague. So I changed it to, “be healthier” and I wrote down what I was going to do to become healthier. My list was simple and realistic. It started out with easy things, like I would only eat fast food three times a week for a month, then the next month twice a week, and so on. I did fail every so often but instead of beating myself up over it, I forgave myself and to my surprise it worked. I was reading an article one day and it said that when we fail at something we tend to give guilt control and we continue that behavior over and over. The article said to learn to forgive ourselves and move on. I remember a time where life got busy and I ate fast food a lot and guilt creeped in. So I kept on eating fast food. Then I remembered this article and every time I ate fast food I forgave myself and moved on. With a few days I was back on track. One thing that I did add which the articles didn’t have was prayer. I started to pray a lot more for my resolution. Since I was in prayer for what my resolution should have been I just continued to be in prayer for it. Now, I didn’t pray every day or once a week on my resolution. But when I felt tempted to get a quick bite I did pray and it helped out a lot. Now, it’s been a year and every so often I do eat fast food but not near as much as I used to, maybe once every six weeks. Since then I am proud to say that I have lost over 30 lbs. and this year, in 2015, I am taking on another New Year’s resolution. As I am writing this blog I am not sure exactly what it is because I am still praying about it, but I think I have an idea and it’s to work out more. I am working on a plan on how I am going to do it and I will be writing it down. I pray that I am able to succeed again and if I don’t I won’t beat myself up over it. So, we will see how I am doing in a year from now. I hope you all have a wonderful New Year and if you take on a New Year’s resolution, that you too succeed. Richard Annett, Director of Student Ministries at First Church Time to renovate in life... Posted: 25 Dec 2014 05:53 PM PST My husband and I are getting ready to have our master bathroom renovated. We’re saying goodbye to the wood paneling, a strange coffin-shaped archway, a ceiling that is half ceiling tile and half dry wall, and the strange arrangement of having the only electrical outlet as far as possible from the current vanity. We spent many months picking out tile, cabinet color, and counter tops, and after several setbacks around budget or inventory or you name it, it looks like everything is finally set to go! The only remaining question is the exact start date, and after the new year that should all get ironed out. It has been a long but also an exciting process for us – something neither one of us has ever been involved in before. We are doing our own demolition and painting, and are excited to get started. I even took some pictures the other day so that we can eventually have before and after photos to share. This time of year is a good time to think about renovations in our spiritual lives too. What has been functioning well in our lives in 2014? What may God be calling us to change, invest more in, or even tear down in 2015? As we begin this new year, I have been reflecting on a few things about the renovating work the Holy Spirit is doing in each one of us: Remembering that every person is created in God’s image (Genesis 1:26-27). Doing the work of renovation involves tearing down and building up. (Ecclesiastes 3:3b) That means some things in my life right now may be keeping me from living and serving in the ways God is calling me. Also, I may need to seek ways to grow and make some additions to my spiritual life. True renovation in our spiritual lives has an outward focus – How can I grow in my love of God and others in the new year? How can I be an instrument of peace? May God b ... [Message clipped] View entire message Attachments area Preview YouTube video Selma Official Trailer #1 (2015) - Oprah Winfrey, Cuba Gooding Jr. Movie HD Selma Official Trailer #1 (2015)

Friday, October 21, 2016

In Real Life Inbox x Updates x In Real Life Unsubscribe 12:26 AM (2 hours ago) to garyleeparker1. In Real Life Heaven's Portals Reality check Leading with Compassion What Is Church? Paddington Eyes Wide Open A Nice Vacation "When to Let Go" "Because I Can . . . " "Invitation from a Stranger" "Our Lenten Journey" Walk or Run Part 2 "Take Up Your Cross--What Does It Mean?" It's All about Love Living Authentically Selma: I Vote Yes The Happiest Place on Earth Walk or Run? Just Let Go! Fears of the unknown You have all seen them The Hundred-foot Journey - a film review Taking Inventory Happy New Year! Time to renovate in life... Counting my Blessings Prepare Yourself, Christmas is Coming! God's Kingdom Here and Now An Attitude of Gratitude No Way! God's love in the details A Thanksgiving Memory Zeke's God Book Accidental Friendship Peacemakers God's Beauty All Around Feeling Humbled Our Father, who art in Heaven… Pastor Mary's Movie Review Face Recognition Summer in Paradise Healing Prayers Robin Williams leaves this world A Moment in Time Summer Rain VBS moments Gratitude Moments, Growing Pains, & Prayer In Search of Still Waters Under Construction Working Through Fear Going Back to Special Places Million Dollar Arm - A film about transformation Worlds Beyond I love summer! Remembering Those Who Shape Our Stories Koinonia and the Holy Spirit Philomena, a film with many layers Eh…. Don’t forget to brush your teeth! Let us glow in the dark this Friday! Soul Searching in Lent Experiencing Vespers Monuments Men God's Faithfulness Rainy Day Interfaith Shelter Better to be Seen than Viewed Buck Loneliness Walking the labyrinth Baptism, a chance to begin anew Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service Saving Mr. Banks: Art Imitating Life, Imitating Art His Word Has Power Including God in Your Resolutions: 4 Questions What I see in the miracle of the light... Planting Kindness "12 Years a Slave" - film review Like a Drop in the Ocean Giving Thanks Nourishes Our Souls Have we lost our sense of mystery? Blackfish From Pool to Soul Chlorination Puppies and Sunrises He's not done with me yet It Takes a Village to Raise a Couple When lost in the fog, who do you trust? What song is God playing for you today? Not My Job Thin Places Baseball to the Rescue The Gift of Life Packing Lists Friendship Family Moves God works in mysterious ways Faith in times of loss God and Gardening What is the Holy Spirit? Love for a Child Let Memorial Weekend Begin! Fishing: A Lesson in Patience No Need for Super Heroes! Simple Gifts Boston - be strong, and let your heart take courage Hands of God Season of new beginnings Symbols of New Life Dry Wall Mudding with Jesus New Life What is Heaven Like? Sharing Your Hope Taking your relationship with God for granted? Bound Together "The House I Live In" Desperate to See God Beyond Sin, Beyond Self Light in the Darkness A New Year of Forgiveness I Love the Holiday Season! A not so peaceful reflection of “December Nights” Lincoln (the reel life) What can you serve-up to the world today? What does it mean to be spiritual? And through our hands... Here is what I think... The Decline of the Protestant Majority Stitches or Band-Aid? What keeps you from a road less traveled? Lessons in Hospitality Trouble with the Curve in Real Life Beyond the fluff Civility Drawn by Jesus' Love The Kingdom of God is within you A Helping Hand Kids in Community reflection “Little Einstein” Yard Sales and Wisdom of Grandmas Take Time to Refill Your Cup The Virgin Mary of Methodism Mulligans for Life A Fisherman's Secret Where was God? What Helps You Experience God? (Molly's) LAST BLOG POST!!! Cleaning Out the Garage Mason-Dixon Line Memorial Day Memories God in Nature: Slowing Down, Listening, Wherever You Are Amazing Grace this Mother’s Day Wrapped in Love and Prayer Gray Areas Urban Alley Defiance Delighting God Get real Heaven's Portals Posted: 25 Jun 2015 01:06 PM PDT I had the privilege of sitting up on the chancel a couple of weeks ago when serving as the 8:00 am liturgist. Facing west, the seat on the lectern side affords a great view of the church, congregation and the hundreds of window panels that light up with the shifting sun. I was thoroughly enjoying the organ music, choir singing and general feeling of worship, when I was suddenly struck with a real sense of being in a holy space. Looking at the west wall, I realized that the windows from the east wall were casting shadows and what looked to me like light bursts all along the sanctuary. For a few minutes, I found myself staring at these spots on the wall, feeling much like we had been given a rare opportunity to have the light and love of heaven shining into our church. While not exactly the case, it continues to be a comforting thought that every day at around 8:15 am (depending of course on the time of year, but for now, that is how it works out), dozens of heaven’s portals open up and bathe us in light. Cue the organ and the choir, add in some meaningful scripture, a stirring message, and the community of a congregation worshipping and taking communion together, and things are feeling good for the soul! If you catch me staring at the west wall during worship at the first service, take a moment to look up – and in – to a few of heaven’s portals…you will enjoy the time with God! Jan Newton, Executive Administrator Reality check Posted: 11 Jun 2015 11:11 AM PDT It was a huge reality check when I didn’t get to go to the college I had most hoped to attend. I remember when I applied to college, I felt certain that I wanted to go to one particular university – a Christian college near where I grew up. I was naively convinced I’d be attending the school of my choice – that of course God would want me to go to a Christian school, and I’d meet the school’s requirements. I applied to a few other schools, but was not seriously considering any of them. But that’s when I got my reality check. The financial aid I needed to go to the school of my choice did not come through, but another university did offer me enough to make it possible. However, that school was across the street from my grandmother’s house…and for a teenager looking for some new independence, it felt like starting college in my own front yard. To say I was disappointed would be putting it mildly. They say hindsight is 20/20, and in retrospect, I am so grateful to God for the path that I ended up taking. It didn’t take long once college began for me to fall in love with it – it was the place for me after all, and shaped me in incredible ways. The religious studies courses I took, the friends I made, the professors who mentored me, the strengthened relationship I was able to build with my grandparents, and meeting my amazing husband were all unforeseen blessings that going to this other college allowed me to experience. God turned my disappointment into provision. We all bring stories from our lives where we have longed for and experienced God at work. It is part of what we do, as a community of faith, that we share the ways that we have seen God's provision in our lives. It helps us to encourage one another as a church family and in our communities and families outside the church, so that when any of us are in need of that encouragement in faith or in times of struggle, we have stories that give us hope and people that show us how God is still at work in the world. May you be blessed as you share your story of God's faithfulness with others. Blessings, Jessica Leading with Compassion Posted: 04 Jun 2015 11:28 AM PDT This past Saturday I, along with about 17 other volunteers from our congregation, attended the 3rd annual Celebration of Compassion event at Cherokee Point Elementary. The event featured food, fun activities, workshops, and ideas about how to help make San Diego "a city of compassion." Pastor Jessica and I spent many months beforehand helping to plan and coordinate the event. It was decided that we would have a roving reporter and make a video with some of the teachers and students at Cherokee Point and ask them this question,"What does Compassion mean to you"? I was so moved by the children’s answers to the question that I found myself, more than once, wiping away escaping tears See what the kids at Cherokee Point have to say about compassion! https://vimeo.com/129724177 As I reflected on the question, I first thought about the meaning of compassion and liked it being described in this way, "the meaning of compassion is to recognize the suffering of others, then take action to help." And that is exactly what I witnessed beingdemonstrated by our volunteers, who have a very deep understanding of the needs of the families we serve at Cherokee Point. According to Cherokee Point Principal,Godwin Higa, “Many of the kids from the Cherokee Point neighborhood come from families under a lot of stress. Families with domestic violence. Neglectful families.Severely traumatized families. Military families where dad or mom keeps going off to a scary war. All of the school’s families are low income. They struggle to put enough food on the table. A trip to the dentist is a luxury.” At the end of every event hosted at Cherokee Point when the families and children are present, food (from one of SD’s local food banks), is always sent home with them as they are leaving. One of our volunteers who was helping to pack the food for the families, realized that most of the families there were without transportation. They were walking with children and strollers in tow and getting that food home was not going to be an easy task. He left the event and went and purchased bags to help sort the food more efficiently. He and the other volunteers spent most of their time there that day, planning, organizing, sorting, and bagging food in a way that would be most helpful to the families getting it back home. Compassion in action, he recognized suffering and he took the action to help. Compassion can be expressed in many ways by doing good for others, offering up a smile or kind words or being present to someone who may be in need of a listening ear. If you are volunteering or considering volunteering at Cherokee Point Elementary school you are invited to a presentation by Principal Godwin Higa, that will focus on the topic of Trauma Informed Schools and what it looks like to lead with compassion. To sign up go to www.fumcsd.org/tie. Brenda Blake, Church and Community Worker What Is Church? Posted: 28 May 2015 03:17 PM PDT For about a month, I have been aware that many things I am doing pastorally I am doing for the last time. Whenever things come to an end, we are aware that certain things will be done for the last time. On May 20 I presided over my last Vespers service and that was hard. That service has been a place where I both worshiped and led worship. This Sunday, May 31, Pastor Elbert and I will share in our last worship with you. Some time ago I read Barbara Brown Taylor’s Book, Leaving Church--her journey of leaving the parish ministry. I understood her sense of longing for the familiar and yet the call to a new place in her life. I am not leaving the church, I am leaving a community that is the church. Church in not a place, a building, and especially not an institution. Church is connection to God, self, and those in a community. We share communion, not just in bread and wine, but a common union in the darkness of life when loved ones die, when children are born and the light returns; when people are joyous and when they are sad. We share this with each other and with God as a community that share the knowledge of, not just the belief in, something larger. We connect with each other and with God and we celebrate and mourn together and are connected for eternity. God is our shared point and we carry each other with the knowledge and trust in each other. We hold, cherish and carry each other’s lives and souls. For sixteen years I have been among you and for eight years I have been deeply privileged to be a pastor to you. You have been my community. You have supported and believed in me when I did not believe in myself and I have been allowed into sacred space with you. I have been allowed into your lives. Nothing is more sacred, meaningful or bonding than this and I deeply appreciate it. What I will always remember is the candles each of you held Christmas Eve that lights the world and your faces. What I cherish is each face that comes to have water placed in the shape of a cross on your forehead and to be reminded of your baptism and each set of hands that reached for the bread I held as we shared in communion. What I will always remember is your dedication to something deeper. And the love I have felt from you that affirmed me. I cannot thank you enough for the friendship and connection that is community. May God continue to lead each of you in seeking that which is most meaningful; connection with God and those who seek God together no matter where we are. God bless you always. Pastor Greg, Director, New Life Center Paddington Posted: 21 May 2015 10:24 AM PDT Based on a children’s story, this rare Peruvian young bear travels alone to London to find a family. Colin Firth adeptly is the voice of Paddington. Nicole Kidman in a unique role, plays the villain. This is a heartwarming story of an English-speaking bear sent to London 40 years after an explorer spares his family. Let me rephrase that. The explorer might say he spared the bears, while the bear family would say that they saved the explorer from an untimely insect bite. Once in London, Paddington brings chaos to the Brown family, much in need of some old-fashioned chaos. Mr. Brown manages risk for a living and has lost all spontaneity; the family is disjointed and distant. The action scenes are amazing and you will find yourself laughing out loud. The bathroom scene is hysterical. And don’t miss the moment in the movie when Paddington is nervous about riding a down escalator. Upon seeing a sign “Carry dogs,” he bucks up, finds a dog to carry, and rides down; much to the chagrin of the dog owner. The movie has interesting commentary on the nature of family. Yes, family may include a bear with a disturbing orange marmalade habit. This is a joy for any family, human or otherwise. Mary Allman-Boyle, Executive Pastor Eyes Wide Open Posted: 14 May 2015 04:49 PM PDT In 1976, I found a $50 bill on the ground outside the Mission Hills library. I turned it in at the desk, no one claimed it, and two weeks later, I was $50 richer–-just for going to the library and paying attention to what was on the ground next to the bike racks! While this little story is entertaining enough, what makes it more impactful is the fact that nearly 40 years later, I not only remember that experience, but also still find myself scanning along the ground when I am out, just keeping my eyes open for anything that might be out there. I caught myself doing it again this weekend while I was out running and was struck by the fact that the “gift” of finding $50 as a 10-year old has had a lasting a permanent impact on me. As my thoughts wandered along the many times that I have consciously and subconsciously looked along the ground, I was struck by the fact that I need to put as much energy into looking specifically for God – not just the hope of a $50 bill – in my daily activities. Think about it. Where have you seen and felt God in your life? Chances are that right here and now, you can count off an easy 3 or 4 times, and if you really started to focus on it, you could make a list at least a dozen items long! As I was running and making the list of the places where I felt God reaching out to me, I realized that I need to start paying better attention to duplicate the great joy and happiness that comes from these “gifts” from God. Standing in line at the Post Office--pay attention! Pumping gas at 7-11--look alive! Getting my iPhone screen fixed (again)--smile and engage! Each of these scenarios in the past has proven to be a moment when God reached out to me and or through me to connect with another and feel the grace of His love. Making it part of my daily excursion to seek Him and look for God in all that I do needs to become a new “normal” and one that will continue to enrich my life with the gifts of His grace and love. Here’s to each of us seeking out the gift of God by paying attention to everything that is going on around us--be it at the library, on the ground, in the parking lot, or wherever--God is always looking to meet us right where we are. Jan Newton, Executive Administrator A Nice Vacation Posted: 07 May 2015 05:17 PM PDT I have some cousins who live in Colorado and a few weeks ago I had the opportunity to fly there for five days. The last time I went to Colorado was about 10 years ago. It was so nice to get away and leave work and school at home. I flew out on a Monday and when I arrived the weather was beautiful. It was about 50 degrees and the sky was clear. However, within a few hours some thunderstorms rolled in. Having lived in California my whole life, this was a treat! I enjoyed every minute of it. Then without any notice, it started to snow. I felt like a kid on Christmas morning. I was literally jumping up and down saying, “It’s snowing, it’s snowing.” It only snowed for about five minutes and then became clear again. My uncle told me “If you don’t like the weather in Colorado just wait five minutes.” He was so right. Almost all week it would rain hard for a few minutes, stop, and then the skies would clear. It was kind of weird to experience so many different “seasons.” Besides experiencing some “weather” I also did a lot of sight-seeing. My aunt took us to some beautiful rock formations called “Garden of the Gods.” In this national park there are huge red rock formations sticking up out of the ground. It was like someone punched these rocks up out of the surface. It was so much fun walking around staring at these formations that were easily 200 feet high. In Colorado there are 57 peaks that break 14,000 feet, including Pikes Peak, which is near the Garden of the Gods. We were able to get up to about 12,000 feet and see into Kansas. In our final touristy activity we went to “Cave of the Winds,” a cave that goes a few miles deep into a mountain. Inside we saw beautiful stalagtites and stalagmites and some of the clearest ponds and streams. At the end of the tour, our guide turned off the lights in the cave and we were unable to see our hands in front of our faces, no matter how close we got it. It was a really nice vacation that refreshed and renewed my spirit for the summer, which is going to be a busy one for me. I have one more class and I will be done with my Masters of Divinity, then I will be going to Annual Conference to help with the youth program, staying at Camp Cedar Glen for a week to help with the High School Summer camp, and going to Walker River, Nevada, with our youth group for a mission trip. This was the perfect vacation to get ready for all that is ahead. Richard Annett, Director of Student Ministries "When to Let Go" Posted: 29 Apr 2015 04:38 PM PDT We went with some friends to see the play “White Snake” the other day at The Old Globe Theater. It was very visually compelling, with material dropping delicately from the ceiling, actors moving gracefully around the stage (and performing with incredible skill), and beautiful costuming. But the adventure started earlier than that: the great hunt for a place to park. It seems everyone was at Balboa Park that Saturday! There was a student Shakespeare Festival, there was a performance at the Organ Pavilion, the Art Museum is showing “Art Alive,”…it was very crowded with people and art of all sorts. We thought we were arriving early, but soon we realized we were much too late to make the opening curtain. If you’re like me, and greatly dislike being late, than you know how unfortunate that is. It was one of those moments where you just have to let go – recognizing that life does happen – and take some deep breaths. Knowing when to let go and when to take something up is wisdom that is so important in our lives. What have you let go of lately, and how did it feel? What did letting go allow you to take up? Is there anything new you have taken up lately? An activity, a friendship, a new exercise routine, a new spiritual practice? What has embracing this new thing allowed you to let go of? We did eventually make it in to see the play, and enjoyed seeing it with our friends. In the performance, the main characters let go of all kinds of things. They let go of doubts, they let go of the life they had planned, they let go of concerns for self in order to risk on behalf of another they loved. These same characters also took up new things: new relationships, new forms (the main characters were snakes who could change themselves into people!), new futures for themselves and ways of helping others. We often talk about seeking balance in our lives, and when we do, I think we are also talking about letting some things go and taking other things up. As a church and as followers of Jesus, we want to let go of things that hold us back from loving God and loving others with all that we are. We want to take up relationships and practices that help us to be all that God calls us to be. Sometimes, even something as simple as searching for a parking space can remind us of what we’re really searching for, and about the priorities that matter most. Blessings, Jessica Rev. Jessica Strysko, Pastor of Missions and Family Ministry "Because I Can . . . " Posted: 22 Apr 2015 05:37 PM PDT I am excited to share with you that we recently celebrated the launch of our very first Missional Community gathering for our Loaves & Fishes Ministry. Gathered were about 30 people who came together to enjoy food, fellowship, and share stories with one another regarding their experiences in this ministry. The highlight of the evening for me was that I had the opportunity to sit back and really listen to and appreciate the stories being shared by volunteers who have served for many years as well as newer volunteers. Whether they were serving on a Saturday repacking team, Sunday distribution team, or picking up food in the community, what was really apparent in listening to their stories was the deep sense of connection and commitment they felt to serving and helping meet the needs of hungry people in our own community. As I sat reflecting on what was being said, I found myself thinking about a woman from our congregation, who has since passed on, and her seemingly tireless efforts to help those living in poverty. I was always intrigued by her endless energy and how it seemed, no matter what the circumstance, she always went above and beyond to help anyone in need, (sounds like many of our volunteers!) most especially, making sure they had something to eat. It seemed every time I saw her she was carrying some type of food in her arms for someone in need. One day, I decided to ask her why she did so much and always with such great love and enthusiasm. She gave me a very simple and sincere answer. She said, “Because I can.” As I listened to her voice I was reminded of this passage from Luke: “From everyone to whom much has been given, much will be required; and from the one to whom much has been entrusted, even more will be demanded.” - Luke 12:48 As the evening came to a close, I was filled with such a deep sense of gratitude and appreciation for those who dedicate their lives, on a daily basis, to living out their call to serve others. If you would like to learn about ways you can be in service to people living in poverty in our community and would like to hear more about being in a Missional Community (or starting a new one) please feel free to contact me. Brenda Blake, Director, Church and Community Work A Missional Community is a group of people, about the size of an extended family, who are united through Christian community around a common service and witness to a particular neighborhood or network of relationships. "Invitation from a Stranger" Posted: 16 Apr 2015 11:24 AM PDT Two weeks ago I was doing Vespers. Holy Week was coming and I was going to teach a class that night after Vespers and the evening meal on the Last Week of Jesus' life. We would be examining the events of Good Friday. I conducted Vespers which is always very personally meaningful to me. Gazing out the window at the garden and oak tree at the cross in the fading light while Stan played some marvelous meditation music, I wondered what the Garden of Gethsemane was like. What was it like when Jesus was there and in such pain as he faced a decision? I find peace in the garden outside the sanctuary window, but his garden experience must have been quite different and I am sure he felt alone. After Vespers I was walking up the center isle greeting people and noticed a couple in their 60s whose faces were unknown to me. I greeted them and asked if they were visitors. They said "yes." In fact, they were here visiting from Kansas and had been over in the shopping center when they struck up a conversation with a man who said he was a member here and they should come by for Vespers if they had nothing else to do. So they came. They asked who one man in the congregation was because they thought he might be the man who had given them the invitation and wanted to thank him. I responded and went on my way after telling them how glad we were they came. When I entered Linder Hall on my way to set up for class I noticed this couple had stayed for the meal and were conversing with everyone at their table. I thought how wonderful; they found the person who invited them and stayed to have a meal together. The couple then came to my class. When they came in I greeted them again and said I was so glad that they had found the person who invited them to Vespers and stayed. They told me they never found the man they had met in the shopping center who had invited them. No one in the Hall was the man they had met, but they chose to stay anyway. After the class ended the woman of this couple approached me and asked for a moment so we found a quiet spot in the hall and sat down. She confided to me that they had had a phone call from a neighbor back in Kansas that day telling them the neighbor’s daughter had been murdered. This woman and her husband looked at me and tearfully asked, “What do I say to my friends?” My response was, “just be there for them.” I told them there was nothing that they could say that would make it better... but their loving presence would hold them in God’s love. They left. An invitation from a stranger that brings a couple to a church where they find companionship, hospitality, peace and comfort. Who was the man that invited them? In once sense I guess it doesn’t matter. In another sense in may be the living Christ. Pastor Greg "Our Lenten Journey" Posted: 01 Apr 2015 11:14 AM PDT Being a proud member of the Christian community, I have spent the last six weeks preparing for and anticipating Easter. As the years pass and I experience the Lenten journey from Ash Wednesday through Easter, it is sometimes surprising to me just how unique and more meaningful I am able to experience it every year. The juxtaposition of great joy and great despair struck me again this past week as I looked out at the plain wooden cross amongst a tapestry of color on our hillside behind the altar. I found myself staring at the contrast of the weathered wood and the fresh grass and flowers; the simplicity of the cross against the complexity of nature...all here by design and in complete love for us. I would have thought that given the number of Easters I have celebrated in my life, this Holy Week would be a routine that I am accustomed to, one that I know exactly what to expect, and one that would feel comfortable and familiar to me. I must admit that instead, I am feeling on-edge, a little sad, and very uncertain...and I know how things work out in the end! Looking out on the cross on the hillside, I am filled with a certain sense of calm in this time of discomfort. We each have our own Lenten journey, but when it is through the cross, we all come through it together, triumphant and jubilant in the life of our risen Lord. May each of you be blessed on your own Lenten journey and know that our God is a loving and wondrous father, caring for and loving each of us exactly where we are, as we are. Jan Newton, Executive Administrator Walk or Run Part 2 Posted: 26 Mar 2015 01:20 PM PDT Whenever I write these blogs I always look back on my previous ones to see what I wrote about last. I do this for two reasons, first, to make sure that I am not repeating myself and second, to see if there is anything I need to report in on. I’ve done this a couple of times and I think it is working out so far. RunningI was looking back at my last post, called “Walk or Run,” which was basically about running to a finish line instead of walking to it. After I wrote that post I started to run in many areas of my life, not just school (what I was talking about in the previous blog). After I reread the post, I started to think more about walking or running, and with it being so close to Easter, my mind went straight to Jesus. I started to ask myself questions about Jesus -- did he ever walk in his life? I am not talking about physically walking, of course he physically walked. Rather, did Jesus ever slow down or was he always running to the cross? I don’t know why, but this question has stuck with me. Did Jesus ever slow down? We don’t hear about Jesus slowing down. Yes, he had obstacles before him and there were times when he went off and prayed to his Father. But did he ever slow down like we do sometimes? Did Jesus ever relax -- maybe kick his feet up on a table he made, after healing some people in a city, and eat some food with his buddies? I can’t think of anywhere in scripture that tells us he did or didn't relax. I know there are times in my life where I slow down; I kick my feet up when in all honesty I shouldn’t. The reason why this question has been on my mind so much is because I know he didn’t slow down during Holy Week. In fact he kept running. He kept running to the cross. It made me really reflect on if I am running as deeply and passionately as Jesus? Or do I need to speed up? I personally don’t think Jesus ever slowed down. I think everything that he did and said was for the cross. But I am still working through this. I am still asking myself these questions about Jesus and my own life. Richard Annett, Director of Student Ministries "Take Up Your Cross--What Does It Mean?" Posted: 19 Mar 2015 03:24 PM PDT I had the opportunity to preach recently about what it takes to be a follower of Jesus. Jesus says in Mark 8:34 “If any want to become my followers, let them deny themselves, take up their cross, and follow me.” As I shared in my sermon, this text led me to think about and notice the crosses all around me, and to pray that God would help me understand these words more deeply so that I might put them into action in my life. One of the first things I noticed is how "happy" we make the cross look. We have re-appropriated a symbol that used to mean oppression, torture, and brutality, and have made it a symbol of hope, wholeness, and even joy! In many ways I see this move as extremely positive – as proof that light shines in the darkness, and the darkness cannot overcome it. That God can redeem and reclaim even the worst areas of human life. It also presents a challenge for us, of course, as we try and understand what Jesus means when he says “take up your cross.” This is a call to sacrifice, and to remember that our very lives belong to God. Trying to keep ourselves safe is a human priority; following Jesus as he loves and serves others is a divine priority. After one of the Sanctuary worship services, someone stopped me to make sure I knew about the crosses, made out of white stones, that are embedded in the floor at the entrance of the three sets of doors that lead to the lower Sanctuary. I had forgotten about these wonderful testaments of faith, and proclamations about why we enter this space of worship: we seek to follow Jesus, to deny ourselves, to take up our cross. Other congregants pointed out crosses they found on cars, on the sides of the pews, in windows as they went about their work weeks, etc. It has been such a blessing to me to see these symbols of hope and sacrifice in so many places – not that they had not been there before, but in the busyness of life and its distractions, I had not seen them. As the season of Lent will soon come to a close, and Holy Week draws near, I want to continue the practice of noticing hope and sacrifice in unlikely, everyday places. And I want to continue to hear Jesus’ words as a challenge to follow him – not just in times of joy, but when it requires true, costly sacrifice. Rev. Jessica Strysko, Pastor of Missions and Family Ministry It's All about Love Posted: 12 Mar 2015 10:41 AM PDT Another shelter rotation has come and gone and I am feeling very blessed and peaceful. This rotation was an exceptional one on many levels. In my last blog, a few weeks ago, I was trying to encourage more church members to sign up to volunteer for various tasks, and most of all to consider being an overnight host. I am beyond pleased to share with you that we had 13 new volunteers this year. And more than half were overnight hosts. And, when asked if they would stay again next year, all said yes! That includes the ones I called on more than once to fill in after getting last minute cancellations. The next reason I feel this year was an exceptionally good one was because all 11 of our guests were perfect candidates for this particular shelter program. Each was motivated and focused on their goals of moving toward self-sufficiency and permanent housing. All expressed at one time or another during their stay how very grateful they were to our church (and other churches) for opening our doors and allowing this space to become a temporary home. A home where they had plenty of healthy food to eat, a place to shower, and perhaps most importantly, a safe place, off the streets, to sleep. And yet again, I had the awesome privilege of seeing members of our congregation actively living out their faith in word and deed. Each time I witnessed one of these moments I was reminded of one of my favorite Mother Teresa quotes; “In this life we cannot do great things. We can only do small things with great love.” Among my favorite moments were these acts of service, acts of love, I witnessed: every single volunteer, without exception, offered warmth, hospitality, and kind and encouraging words and made our guests feel very welcome here. As one guest stated, “I feel so comfortable with everyone, it feels like home.” Another made up a backpack for our two-year-old guest and put in a warm blanket and baby doll. Mom reported she wrapped the child in the blanket to protect her from the cold and rain on a particularly dismal day during their stay. Then there were the 11 McDonald gift cards two members purchased through out Heart of Christianity Sunday school class that they donated to give to each one in the shelter. These were more appreciated than I have the words to tell you! And there were so many meals, made with so much love. Remember that Chicken Taco Stew I told you about in my last blog? Not only did she walk in with the three pots of stew, but she had several bags of items to go with it. She set right to work chopping up the fresh cilantro, putting out chips and salsa; “after all,” she told me, “you have to have all the side things with it or it just wouldn’t be the same!” Upon leaving, only two of our guests had transitioned into a more permanent living situation. Please join me, in keeping the other nine and all of the people in our world who are seeking food and shelter in our prayers. Brenda Blake, Church and Community Worker Living Authentically Posted: 05 Mar 2015 11:12 AM PST On Ash Wednesday we began the season of Lent, and it was, again, a real privilege to be part of the service; to offer and share communion, to be reminded that we are mortal, and that Jesus chose to become human with us out of love for us. My original call to ministry was when I was an acolyte in a Lutheran church at age 14, during a Maundy Thursday Tenebrae Service. Tenebrae is a Latin word for ”shadows” or darkness.” This is a dramatic service the night before Good Friday. The light in the sanctuary is slowly diminished until the entire sanctuary is dark as the service finishes. At the end of the service a loud sound is made, usually a strident chord on the organ signifying Jesus' death. The light of the world goes out--for a time. We leave the service in silence as the altar is stripped. What impressed me this past Ash Wednesday was the call to be authentic and real. As a therapist this is hallmark; helping people find out who they really are, instead of living a life of “shoulds.” Feeling and thinking what we are told to think and feel, instead of what we genuinely think and feel, is what therapy and wholeness is truly about. When so many of us are told how to think and feel, deny who we really are inside, life goes dark--inside and out. Indeed, when we do this the world grows darker. We lose, or forsake, who we really are, and our genuine interests, for those desired by others until we no longer know who we really are. True darkness results. To live authentically requires knowing who we really are, what we truly think and feel, and being authentic to that inner being. Our society puts great pressure on us to conform, rather than transform. To become who we really are can threaten the established order and so we conform rather than transform. Scripture is the story of individuals, a specific group of people, called to become who they really are, and that invariably involves difficulty and challenge. At times these individuals refused to be genuine, and the Jews failed to be who they genuinely were called to be at times, but God remained faithful. Living authentically is the call we all receive. Jesus is the ultimate example of living an authentic life. Being who he really was, being who God called him to be despite political and religious pressure, was his life's work, and what he came to teach us. Ultimately being who he was so threatened the political and religious institutions that they struck out at him and killed him. Gandhi and Martin Luther King are contemporary examples of being and living authentically that had consequences, and that led also to the betterment of all mankind. Swiss psychiatrist, Carl Jung, once noted that living authentically could change the world if each individual would connect with their authentic self. If each of us becomes who God has made us to be and brings the genuine gift planted in us from before we were born, then all of us benefit. We can impact our immediate world and those around us by living an authentic and fulfilling life. Use this Lenten time to explore what it means for you to live an authentic life. And trust God to help bring you the understanding of who you are in Christ and put light into the world by doing so. Pastor Greg Selma: I Vote Yes Posted: 26 Feb 2015 09:27 AM PST To honor Martin Luther King Weekend, John and I attended the movie, Selma. This powerful movie was appropriately released on the 50th year of the Voting Rights Act. The Civil Rights Movement needed to focus on how to bring about change. The scene where they explored various options was compelling. How do you prevent violence? How do they let justice roll down? How do you live without fear of bombings and brutality? They debated: how could there be justice without true vote and voice? If you cannot vote, you cannot serve on a jury. Without equal representation on juries, trials are biased. Without the vote, you cannot turn out corrupt and racist sheriffs and elected officials. How can you have justice without the vote? The scene when Oprah Winfrey’s character, Annie Lee Cooper, went before the county official for her voting exam, was disturbing. “Does your employer know you are here?” The questioning escalated from questions about the constitution to names of counties, to names of officials. No one could possibly pass this oral exam! And yet, she returned over and over again after more study and memorization. So the vote is what they would focus on. I found myself narrating the current lives of the characters. Oh there is the Andrew Young, who went onto be Mayor of Atlanta and the U.S. Ambassador to the U. N. Rosie Greer was a football player and activist. And there is John Lewis, an important voice and someone who went onto be a US Congressman and is still in congress today. Three days after our viewing, Rep. John Lewis was front and center in the images of the President’s State of the Union Address to Congress. In many ways we have come a long way. In many ways we have not. Our friends of color are still stopped by police and treated differently. How can we rest comfortably when a child with a play gun is shot and that decision to shoot and kill is made in two minutes without appropriate steps of intervention? How can we encourage everyone to exercise the hard won right and obligation to vote? Amos 5:24: “But let justice roll down like waters and righteousness like an ever-flowing stream." May it be so! Amen I encourage you to watch Selma! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x6t7vVTxaic Rev. Mary Allman-Boyle, Executive Pastor The Happiest Place on Earth Posted: 19 Feb 2015 11:31 AM PST The Newton’s took some vacation time earlier this month, a day of which included a trip to the self-proclaimed happiest place on earth – Disneyland. I will not deny the lure of the Mouse House and the fun that we enjoyed there; a fun that was had in family time together, enjoying the sights, the sounds, the rides, and our fair share of meals, treats, and snacks. We have many photos (including a batch of shameless selfies) to validate that a good time was had by all and, indeed, we are very happy when we are all together. As we reflected on our day and what made it so great – so HAPPY – I was struck by how we are able to transform a day at an amusement park into something described as the happiest place on earth, yet often struggle to see the joy, beauty and happiness that a life together in God brings to each of us. I am not advocating that we abandon a day at Disneyland as a source of fun – rather, we take that same zeal, energy, and enthusiasm and apply it to our daily life… the place where we constantly live and engage with one another. We are called to love God and serve one another; if each of us embraced this calling and did our very best to live it out every waking moment, it would undoubtedly have a transformational and remarkable impact on the world, making EVERY place the happiest on earth. Throw in some ice cream, and this life in God indeed has it all! Jan Newton Walk or Run? Posted: 12 Feb 2015 11:15 AM PST I have been in school for the past 22 years of my life, not including preschool. Out of those 22 years I have been going to school non-stop for nine years, only getting a break after summer school, before fall, and then during the winter. I have to say, I am getting burned out and I have the worst case of senioritis in the world right now. I currently have three more classes left and then I am officially finished with my Masters of Divinity. Seminary is an amazing experience and I am totally enjoying it. I love the professors that I have; I love my classmates and the relationships that are being built. However, I am not going to lie, getting my homework and reading done is a little tedious. I sit down, look at the work that is before me, and time just seems to slow down. You know in those movies where they slow down the film, frame by frame. That is what it feels like when I am doing homework. Five minutes go by and it feels like forty-five. Sometimes I am ready to pull out the little hair that I have on my head. At the same time, I know I can’t give up, I’m almost there. A wise person once told me, “You don’t walk to the finish line in a race, you run.” I am six months away from being done with my Masters. That is 180 days, 4,320 hours, and 259,200 minutes. I need to start running and I think I am going to, and then I can stop and get a drink of water and get ready for the next race; A Master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy. Richard Annett, Director of Student Ministries Just Let Go! Posted: 05 Feb 2015 05:43 PM PST It’s been a while since I’ve written about my dogs, so I thought it was time to share another story about them. I have to hold myself back so that not every blog post is about Spartacus (our poodle mix) and Merlin (our boxer mix). They bring my husband and I a lot of joy, and if you’ve ever been a pet owner, you know that they hold a special place in your heart and life. As you can see in this picture of them, our dogs to play together – especially tug-of-war, even though they are quite different in size. As a result, toys do not last long in our house, and the best toys have plenty of space for two sets of canine teeth and a good place for human hands to grip. Fortunately for the dogs, we are well supplied. Recently, we had a life group gathering at our home and when things were wrapping up, we let the dogs out and they were doing their usual entertaining. There was much laughter, a few plates and glasses that were unintentionally shared, and a few cell phone videos created. At one point, Merlin had the end of one toy that Spartacus just refused to let go of, and the result was that Spartacus slid across the laminate floor. At another point they traded playful growls, shaking their heads to try and loosen the other’s grip, and scouting backwards to try and yank it away. We spend a lot of time watching scenes like this in our house, and we love the joy it brings others who see it for the first time. Watching our dogs play tug-of-war can be a comical reminder to me of how important – and how difficult it is – for human beings in particular to let go. Whether it is our need to take time to relax and renew (letting go of the to-do list), or our need to practice forgiveness (letting go of past hurts), we can all use a reminder from time-to-time to let go. The upcoming Ash Wednesday speaker, the Rev. Nicole Riley, will be speaking to us on this subject “Just Let Go” as we prepare to enter the season of Lent once more. Letting go is not easy, and we aren’t always sure exactly when to do it. But our church family is a great place to begin asking the question of how to trust God more and more – which is what it takes if we are to truly let go of the things that keep us weighed down. I love it when the antics of puppies lead me to spiritual reflection – and it happens more than you could imagine. God is good, God is in our laughter and our times of joy, as well as present to comfort us in times of sorrow and loss. May God’s presence be visible to you today and always! Pastor Jessica Fears of the unknown Posted: 29 Jan 2015 06:38 PM PST It’s almost that time again... In just a few short weeks from now (February 22 through March 8) our Interfaith Shelter guests will be arriving on our campus for a two week stay. I am so pleased that our Congregation has participated in this ministry for most of the 29 years of the program’s existence. As we begin preparing for our guest’s arrival there is much work to be done. As you might imagine, it takes many volunteers to help get everything in place to ensure that our guests are comfortable and well cared for during their visit with us. When I put my signup sheets out looking for volunteers to prepare an evening meal and for overnight hosting I am always excited to see how quickly the sheets fill up for the meals. Time and again I have the privilege of listening to volunteers talk about the dishes they will loving prepare and serve our guests. Many worry about making sure they are not duplicating dishes, or asking how the food can be kept hot while waiting to be served or how much they should make. I was inspired this week when one of our church members signed up to make three pots of Chicken Taco Stew the day after she gets back from a one week work trip out of town and the day before she goes back to school! I ask her if she was sure she wanted to do this and without hesitation she commented, “Absolutely!” The overnight hosting list fills up less quickly. Often volunteers express some fears of the unknown. Who are these people we are hosting? Where do they come from? Do they come in right off of the street? These are great questions to ask and I hope I can help provide a little insight into the process our guests undertake before being admitted to the shelter. Shelter guests are only sent to congregations in the Network after being screened by an area Social Service agency to assure there will be no active drug, alcohol, or mental health issues. Each guest is working closely with the referring social service agency to resolve the problems leading to their homelessness. I am always filled with joy when an overnight host, who may have had some discomfort about staying overnight, tells me how awesome the experience was and yes, please sign me up again! For more information... Brenda Blake, Director, Church & Community Work You have all seen them Posted: 22 Jan 2015 05:47 PM PST All of us have seen “them”. As we drive around town we inevitably come to a stop light and find a disheveled person standing there with a sign asking for help and assistance. Always ending with “God Bless You” as if to remind us that God loves a cheerful giver and it is our as Christians to care for others… at times it feels a bit manipulative. After all if I give them money how do I know I am not enabling them to buy drugs or alcohol. Just last Sunday a young man came into the church office on Sunday morning and I was not in one of our worship services so I took him to get a cup of coffee and listen to a story I was sure I had heard before from other like him. He had on shorts and it was a very cold morning. He wanted some clothes and money for a trolley pass. We don’t give out cash, but Brenda Blake and Nancy Pritchett helped me package up some food and I had a McDonalds gift card I had purchased from our Hearts of Christianity Class. They sell them so we can give them out instead of cash. You can get them on Sunday mornings in Linder Hall for $5, but I felt a bit “worked”. I eventually gave that young man $10 cash, because I realized I am called to give... he is responsible for how he uses that money. We all have seen them and had our encounters with them. But two members of our church had an encounter with one over a period of years. His name was Harry, and he had a story. Gary and Myrna Cox who sing in our choir and they used to see Harry every winter when they were commuting between here and Colorado. He caught their attention and over the years they learned Harry’s story. They eventually published a book about their relationship with him titled “Harry”. They gifted me a copy just before Christmas and I finally sat down to read it. Gary and Myrna have become friends I respect, but I did not expect the story to affect me the way it did. Harry was a person, not a category. This blog is not the place to tell the entire story, and, really, it isn’t mine to tell. But I invited Gary and Myrna to come to the 8 AM, Koinonia class and share their story of their relationship with Harry. It had quite an impact. In Matthew 25 there is a place where Jesus says, “when you have done it unto the least of these, you have done it unto to me.” Then there is that pesky “Good Samaritan” story. Gary and Myrna, and their friend Harry, reminded me of these stories from scripture. Jesus calls us to close the distance and see the person, not the category. They also reminded me that as long as we categorize people as “them” and those” we relate to them as a group, not as individuals with unique lives and stories... but as human beings. Harry wasn’t lazy. Harry was lost. Gary and Myrna found him and treated him as an individual with a story. And it is a good story. Labels keep people at a distance. We have a fund in Harry’s name you can give to. Call the Finance office or me for more information. Pastor Greg The Hundred-foot Journey - a film review Posted: 15 Jan 2015 11:33 AM PST This week was full of terror in France. Attacks on cartoonists, a Kosher Deli, a policewoman, and our sense of security and freedom of expression. Our hearts go out to those families as well the families of the world. It may seem odd to write about a movie at these difficult times. But this movie, I believe, speaks a word of truth into our situation. Without giving away the whole story, the trailers inform that this family migrates from India due to violence perpetrated on them. Hassan, the narrator as a young man, is not even sure the nature or reasoning of the violence other than different backgrounds; and politics. As they try to find a new home in Europe, there are glimpses of prejudices. Border agents who wonder if the young sister is a mail order bride or that Hassan is really a cook or exagerating his skill set to be allowed into Europe. As they locate in the south of France, some are gracious while others are fearful of the different. Fear of an Indian Restaurant only a hundred feet away from a renowned French restaurant brings its troubles and hatred ensues. While there are mixed reviews, I recommend this movie. The movie explores love and romance on many levels. And the common language of culinary arts transcends cultural differences. Oprah Winfrey and Steven Spielberg, who have brought other important works about racism, bring us this work at a timely moment. If only the spice of life could bridge the cultural divides and bring unity and love as in this movie. May it be so. Rev. Mary Allman-Boyle Watch the movie trailer... Taking Inventory Posted: 08 Jan 2015 10:44 AM PST For the last eight or nine years, we have tried to make it a tradition in the Newton household to take a family photo on New Year's Day. In addition to capturing the subtle changes in our hair and clothing styles as the years progress, it is also a good way for us to keep track of how many dogs we have and who they are! My husband (with a lot of encouragement from our daughter) is a notorious dog collector—'Softie' I call him—who spends a lot of hours at a local no-kill shelter walking the dogs deemed "too wild" or "too strong" for the other volunteers to take out. Many of these dogs have been waiting upwards of three years to be adopted and on occasion David gets very attached to one, sells me on their hard-luck story, and then brings them home to live with us. Looking back on our photos over the years and remembering all of the fun that we have had trying to get everyone to face forward at the same time makes me think about how God must take "inventory" of us. Much like a loving parent, I imagine Him to watch us with love and joy as we experience the ups and downs of our daily lives, taking great delight when we make the time to spend with Him and recognize all that He provides for us. We all have a hard-luck story of some kind, but we also all have a Heavenly Father who loves us greatly and provides so much for us. It is good to take inventory of these things and be a part of the inventory process too. I am delighted to be counted among God's many beloved and precious children, never too wild or too strong to be a part of God's family. Jan Newton Happy New Year! Posted: 01 Jan 2015 09:46 AM PST It's 2015, I can’t believe it is a New Year! How can 2014 already be over? Every year millions of people try to make a New Year’s resolutions, including myself. Sometimes I succeed and sometimes I don’t. This past year I succeed in my resolution. A few days before the New Year, I usually think about that to do, what I should change or work on. Usually its stuff like surf more, get in shape, be happier, get organize, things that most people tend to think about. This past year however, I decided to change up how to come up with my resolution. I decided that I should spend some time praying about what God wanted me to work on. I knew that God loved me just the way I was, but I also knew that God wanted me to become the best I could. So I sat in prayer for a few days in the morning thinking about what I should work on. I also did some research on how to succeed in your New Year’s Resolution and I found some interesting facts about why people tend to fail. Most people fail because their goals aren’t realistic, they don’t plan ahead or map it out, and they beat themselves up when they fail. At first, my resolution was to lose weight and get in shape to look better. With the information I had on how to succeed and I realized that was a pretty unrealistic goal, and pretty vague. So I changed it to, “be healthier” and I wrote down what I was going to do to become healthier. My list was simple and realistic. It started out with easy things, like I would only eat fast food three times a week for a month, then the next month twice a week, and so on. I did fail every so often but instead of beating myself up over it, I forgave myself and to my surprise it worked. I was reading an article one day and it said that when we fail at something we tend to give guilt control and we continue that behavior over and over. The article said to learn to forgive ourselves and move on. I remember a time where life got busy and I ate fast food a lot and guilt creeped in. So I kept on eating fast food. Then I remembered this article and every time I ate fast food I forgave myself and moved on. With a few days I was back on track. One thing that I did add which the articles didn’t have was prayer. I started to pray a lot more for my resolution. Since I was in prayer for what my resolution should have been I just continued to be in prayer for it. Now, I didn’t pray every day or once a week on my resolution. But when I felt tempted to get a quick bite I did pray and it helped out a lot. Now, it’s been a year and every so often I do eat fast food but not near as much as I used to, maybe once every six weeks. Since then I am proud to say that I have lost over 30 lbs. and this year, in 2015, I am taking on another New Year’s resolution. As I am writing this blog I am not sure exactly what it is because I am still praying about it, but I think I have an idea and it’s to work out more. I am working on a plan on how I am going to do it and I will be writing it down. I pray that I am able to succeed again and if I don’t I won’t beat myself up over it. So, we will see how I am doing in a year from now. I hope you all have a wonderful New Year and if you take on a New Year’s resolution, that you too succeed. Richard Annett, Director of Student Ministries at First Church Time to renovate in life... Posted: 25 Dec 2014 05:53 PM PST My husband and I are getting ready to have our master bathroom renovated. We’re saying goodbye to the wood paneling, a strange coffin-shaped archway, a ceiling that is half ceiling tile and half dry wall, and the strange arrangement of having the only electrical outlet as far as possible from the current vanity. We spent many months picking out tile, cabinet color, and counter tops, and after several setbacks around budget or inventory or you name it, it looks like everything is finally set to go! The only remaining question is the exact start date, and after the new year that should all get ironed out. It has been a long but also an exciting process for us – something neither one of us has ever been involved in before. We are doing our own demolition and painting, and are excited to get started. I even took some pictures the other day so that we can eventually have before and after photos to share. This time of year is a good time to think about renovations in our spiritual lives too. What has been functioning well in our lives in 2014? What may God be calling us to change, invest more in, or even tear down in 2015? As we begin this new year, I have been reflecting on a few things about the renovating work the Holy Spirit is doing in each one of us: Remembering that every person is created in God’s image (Genesis 1:26-27). Doing the work of renovation involves tearing down and building up. (Ecclesiastes 3:3b) That means some things in my life right now may be keeping me from living and serving in the ways God is calling me. Also, I may need to seek ways to grow and make some additions to my spiritual life. True renovation in our spiritual lives has an outward focus – How can I grow in my love of God and others in the new year? How can I be an instrument of peace? May God b ... [Message clipped] View entire message Attachments area Preview YouTube video Selma Official Trailer #1 (2015) - Oprah Winfrey, Cuba Gooding Jr. Movie HD Selma Official Trailer #1 (2015) - Oprah Winfrey, Cuba Gooding Jr. Movie HD

In Real Life of First United Methodist Church of San Diego, California, United States for Thursday, 20 October 2016
In Real Life:

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Heaven's Portals
I had the privilege of sitting up on the chancel a couple of weeks ago when serving as the 8:00 am liturgist. Facing west, the seat on the lectern side affords a great view

of the church, congregation and the hundreds of window panels that light up with the shifting sun. I was thoroughly enjoying the organ music, choir singing and general feeling of worship, when I was suddenly struck with a real sense of being in a holy space. Looking at the west wall, I realized that the windows from the east wall were casting shadows and what looked to me like light bursts all along the sanctuary.
For a few minutes, I found myself staring at these spots on the wall, feeling much like we had been given a rare opportunity to have the light and love of heaven shining into our church. While not exactly the case, it continues to be a comforting thought that every day at around 8:15 am (depending of course on the time of year, but for now, that is how it works out), dozens of heaven’s portals open up and bathe us in light. Cue the organ and the choir, add in some meaningful scripture, a stirring message, and the community of a congregation worshipping and taking communion together, and things are feeling good for the soul!
If you catch me staring at the west wall during worship at the first service, take a moment to look up – and in – to a few of heaven’s portals…you will enjoy the time with God![Jan Newton, Executive Administrator]
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Reality check
It was a huge reality check when I didn’t get to go to the college I had most hoped to attend.
I remember when I applied to college, I felt certain that I wanted to go to one particular university – a Christian college near where I grew up. I was naively convinced I’d be attending the school of my choice – that of course God would want me to go to a Christian school, and I’d meet the school’s requirements. I applied to a few other schools, but was not seriously considering any of them. But that’s when I got my reality check.
The financial aid I needed to go to the school of my choice did not come through, but another university did offer me enough to make it possible. However, that school was across the street from my grandmother’s house…and for a teenager looking for some new independence, it felt like starting college in my own front yard. To say I was disappointed would be putting it mildly.
They say hindsight is 20/20, and in retrospect, I am so grateful to God for the path that I ended up taking. It didn’t take long once college began for me to fall in love with it – it was the place for me after all, and shaped me in incredible ways. The religious studies courses I took, the friends I made, the professors who mentored me, the strengthened relationship I was able to build with my grandparents, and meeting my amazing husband were all unforeseen blessings that going to this other college allowed me to experience. God turned my disappointment into provision.
We all bring stories from our lives where we have longed for and experienced God at work. It is part of what we do, as a community of faith, that we share the ways that we have seen God's provision in our lives. It helps us to encourage one another as a church family and in our communities and families outside the church, so that when any of us are in need of that encouragement in faith or in times of struggle, we have stories that give us hope and people that show us how God is still at work in the world. May you be blessed as you share your story of God's faithfulness with others.
Blessings,
Jessica
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Leading with Compassion
This past Saturday I, along with about 17 other volunteers from our congregation, attended the 3rd annual Celebration of Compassion event at Cherokee Point Elementary. The event featured food, fun activities, workshops, and ideas about how to help make San Diego "a city of compassion."
Pastor Jessica and I spent many months beforehand helping to plan and coordinate the event. It was decided that we would have a roving reporter and make a video with some of the teachers and students at Cherokee Point and ask them this question,"What does Compassion mean to you"? I was so moved by the children’s answers to the question that I found myself, more than once, wiping away escaping tears
See what the kids at Cherokee Point have to say about compassion!
https://vimeo.com/129724177
As I reflected on the question, I first thought about the meaning of compassion and liked it being described in this way, "the meaning of compassion is to recognize the suffering of others, then take action to help." And that is exactly what I witnessed beingdemonstrated by our volunteers, who have a very deep understanding of the needs of the families we serve at Cherokee Point. According to Cherokee Point Principal,Godwin Higa, “Many of the kids from the Cherokee Point neighborhood come from families under a lot of stress. Families with domestic violence. Neglectful families.Severely traumatized families. Military families where dad or mom keeps going off to a scary war. All of the school’s families are low income. They struggle to put enough food on the table. A trip to the dentist is a luxury.”
At the end of every event hosted at Cherokee Point when the families and children are present, food (from one of SD’s local food banks), is always sent home with them as they are leaving. One of our volunteers who was helping to pack the food for the families, realized that most of the families there were without transportation. They were walking with children and strollers in tow and getting that food home was not going to be an easy task. He left the event and went and purchased bags to help sort the food more efficiently. He and the other volunteers spent most of their time there that day, planning, organizing, sorting, and bagging food in a way that would be most helpful to the families getting it back home. Compassion in action, he recognized suffering and he took the action to help.
Compassion can be expressed in many ways by doing good for others, offering up a smile or kind words or being present to someone who may be in need of a listening ear. If you are volunteering or considering volunteering at Cherokee Point Elementary school you are invited to a presentation by Principal Godwin Higa, that will focus on the topic of Trauma Informed Schools and what it looks like to lead with compassion. To sign up go to www.fumcsd.org/tie.[Brenda Blake, Church and Community Worker]
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What Is Church?
For about a month, I have been aware that many things I am doing pastorally I am doing for the last time.
Whenever things come to an end, we are aware that certain things will be done for the last time. On May 20 I presided over my last Vespers service and that was hard. That service has been a place where I both worshiped and led worship. This Sunday, May 31, Pastor Elbert and I will share in our last worship with you.
Some time ago I read Barbara Brown Taylor’s Book, Leaving Church--her journey of leaving the parish ministry. I understood her sense of longing for the familiar and yet the call to a new place in her life. I am not leaving the church, I am leaving a community that is the church.
Church in not a place, a building, and especially not an institution. Church is connection to God, self, and those in a community. We share communion, not just in bread and wine, but a common union in the darkness of life when loved ones die, when children are born and the light returns; when people are joyous and when they are sad. We share this with each other and with God as a community that share the knowledge of, not just the belief in, something larger. We connect with each other and with God and we celebrate and mourn together and are connected for eternity. God is our shared point and we carry each other with the knowledge and trust in each other. We hold, cherish and carry each other’s lives and souls.
For sixteen years I have been among you and for eight years I have been deeply privileged to be a pastor to you. You have been my community. You have supported and believed in me when I did not believe in myself and I have been allowed into sacred space with you. I have been allowed into your lives. Nothing is more sacred, meaningful or bonding than this and I deeply appreciate it.
What I will always remember is the candles each of you held Christmas Eve that lights the world and your faces. What I cherish is each face that comes to have water placed in the shape of a cross on your forehead and to be reminded of your baptism and each set of hands that reached for the bread I held as we shared in communion.
What I will always remember is your dedication to something deeper. And the love I have felt from you that affirmed me. I cannot thank you enough for the friendship and connection that is community. May God continue to lead each of you in seeking that which is most meaningful; connection with God and those who seek God together no matter where we are. God bless you always.[Pastor Greg, Director, New Life Center]
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Paddington
Based on a children’s story, this rare Peruvian young bear travels alone to London to find a family. Colin Firth adeptly is the voice of Paddington. Nicole Kidman in a unique role, plays the villain. This is a heartwarming story of an English-speaking bear sent to London 40 years after an explorer spares his family. Let me rephrase that. The explorer might say he spared the bears, while the bear family would say that they saved the explorer from an untimely insect bite. Once in London, Paddington brings chaos to the Brown family, much in need of some old-fashioned chaos. Mr. Brown manages risk for a living and has lost all spontaneity; the family is disjointed and distant. The action scenes are amazing and you will find yourself laughing out loud. The bathroom scene is hysterical. And don’t miss the moment in the movie when Paddington is nervous about riding a down escalator. Upon seeing a sign “Carry dogs,” he bucks up, finds a dog to carry, and rides down; much to the chagrin of the dog owner.
The movie has interesting commentary on the nature of family. Yes, family may include a bear with a disturbing orange marmalade habit. This is a joy for any family, human or otherwise.[Mary Allman-Boyle, Executive Pastor]
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Eyes Wide Open
In 1976, I found a $50 bill on the ground outside the Mission Hills library. I turned it in at the desk, no one claimed it, and two weeks later, I was $50 richer–-just for going to the

library and paying attention to what was on the ground next to the bike racks!
While this little story is entertaining enough, what makes it more impactful is the fact that nearly 40 years later, I not only remember that experience, but also still find myself scanning along the ground when I am out, just keeping my eyes open for anything that might be out there. I caught myself doing it again this weekend while I was out running and was struck by the fact that the “gift” of finding $50 as a 10-year old has had a lasting a permanent impact on me.
As my thoughts wandered along the many times that I have consciously and subconsciously looked along the ground, I was struck by the fact that I need to put as much energy into looking specifically for God – not just the hope of a $50 bill – in my daily activities. Think about it. Where have you seen and felt God in your life? Chances are that right here and now, you can count off an easy 3 or 4 times, and if you really started to focus on it, you could make a list at least a dozen items long!
As I was running and making the list of the places where I felt God reaching out to me, I realized that I need to start paying better attention to duplicate the great joy and happiness that comes from these “gifts” from God. Standing in line at the Post Office--pay attention! Pumping gas at 7-11--look alive! Getting my iPhone screen fixed (again)--smile and engage!
Each of these scenarios in the past has proven to be a moment when God reached out to me and or through me to connect with another and feel the grace of His love. Making it part of my daily excursion to seek Him and look for God in all that I do needs to become a new “normal” and one that will continue to enrich my life with the gifts of His grace and love.
Here’s to each of us seeking out the gift of God by paying attention to everything that is going on around us--be it at the library, on the ground, in the parking lot, or wherever--God is always looking to meet us right where we are.[Jan Newton, Executive Administrator]
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A Nice Vacation
I have some cousins who live in Colorado and a few weeks ago I had the opportunity to fly there for five days. The last time I went to Colorado was about 10 years ago. It was so nice to get away and leave work and school at home. I flew out on a Monday and when I arrived the weather was beautiful. It was about 50 degrees and the sky was clear.
However, within a few hours some thunderstorms rolled in. Having lived in California my whole life, this was a treat! I enjoyed every minute of it. Then without any notice, it started to snow. I felt like a kid on Christmas morning. I was literally jumping up and down saying, “It’s snowing, it’s snowing.” It only snowed for about five minutes and then became clear again. My uncle told me “If you don’t like the weather in Colorado just wait five minutes.” He was so right. Almost all week it would rain hard for a few minutes, stop, and then the skies would clear. It was kind of weird to experience so many different “seasons.”
Besides experiencing some “weather” I also did a lot of sight-seeing. My aunt took us to some beautiful rock formations called “Garden of the Gods.” In this national park there are huge red rock formations sticking up out of the ground. It was like someone punched these rocks up out of the surface. It was so much fun walking around staring at these formations that were easily 200 feet high. In Colorado there are 57 peaks that break 14,000 feet, including Pikes Peak, which is near the Garden of the Gods. We were able to get up to about 12,000 feet and see into Kansas. In our final touristy activity we went to “Cave of the Winds,” a cave that goes a few miles deep into a mountain. Inside we saw beautiful stalagtites and stalagmites and some of the clearest ponds and streams. At the end of the tour, our guide turned off the lights in the cave and we were unable to see our hands in front of our faces, no matter how close we got it.
It was a really nice vacation that refreshed and renewed my spirit for the summer, which is going to be a busy one for me. I have one more class and I will be done with my Masters of Divinity, then I will be going to Annual Conference to help with the youth program, staying at Camp Cedar Glen for a week to help with the High School Summer camp, and going to Walker River, Nevada, with our youth group for a mission trip. This was the perfect vacation to get ready for all that is ahead.[Richard Annett, Director of Student Ministries]
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"When to Let Go"
We went with some friends to see the play “White Snake” the other day at The Old Globe Theater. It was very visually compelling, with material dropping delicately from the ceiling, actors moving gracefully around the stage (and performing with incredible skill), and beautiful costuming. But the adventure started earlier than that: the great hunt for a place to park.
It seems everyone was at Balboa Park that Saturday! There was a student Shakespeare Festival, there was a performance at the Organ Pavilion, the Art Museum is showing “Art Alive,”…it was very crowded with people and art of all sorts. We thought we were arriving early, but soon we realized we were much too late to make the opening curtain. If you’re like me, and greatly dislike being late, than you know how unfortunate that is. It was one of those moments where you just have to let go – recognizing that life does happen – and take some deep breaths.
Knowing when to let go and when to take something up is wisdom that is so important in our lives. What have you let go of lately, and how did it feel? What did letting go allow you to take up?
Is there anything new you have taken up lately? An activity, a friendship, a new exercise routine, a new spiritual practice? What has embracing this new thing allowed you to let go of?
We did eventually make it in to see the play, and enjoyed seeing it with our friends. In the performance, the main characters let go of all kinds of things. They let go of doubts, they let go of the life they had planned, they let go of concerns for self in order to risk on behalf of another they loved. These same characters also took up new things: new relationships, new forms (the main characters were snakes who could change themselves into people!), new futures for themselves and ways of helping others.
We often talk about seeking balance in our lives, and when we do, I think we are also talking about letting some things go and taking other things up. As a church and as followers of Jesus, we want to let go of things that hold us back from loving God and loving others with all that we are. We want to take up relationships and practices that help us to be all that God calls us to be.
Sometimes, even something as simple as searching for a parking space can remind us of what we’re really searching for, and about the priorities that matter most.
Blessings, Jessica
Rev. Jessica Strysko, Pastor of Missions and Family Ministry
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"Because I Can . . . "
I am excited to share with you that we recently celebrated the launch of our very first *Missional Community gathering for our Loaves & Fishes Ministry. Gathered were about 30 people who came together to enjoy food, fellowship, and share stories with one another regarding their experiences in this ministry.
The highlight of the evening for me was that I had the opportunity to sit back and really listen to and appreciate the stories being shared by volunteers who have served for many years as well as newer volunteers. Whether they were serving on a Saturday repacking team, Sunday distribution team, or picking up food in the community, what was really apparent in listening to their stories was the deep sense of connection and commitment they felt to serving and helping meet the needs of hungry people in our own community.
As I sat reflecting on what was being said, I found myself thinking about a woman from our congregation, who has since passed on, and her seemingly tireless efforts to help those living in poverty. I was always intrigued by her endless energy and how it seemed, no matter what the circumstance, she always went above and beyond to help anyone in need, (sounds like many of our volunteers!) most especially, making sure they had something to eat. It seemed every time I saw her she was carrying some type of food in her arms for someone in need. One day, I decided to ask her why she did so much and always with such great love and enthusiasm. She gave me a very simple and sincere answer. She said, “Because I can.” As I listened to her voice I was reminded of this passage from Luke:
“From everyone to whom much has been given, much will be required; and from the one to whom much has been entrusted, even more will be demanded.” - Luke 12:48
As the evening came to a close, I was filled with such a deep sense of gratitude and appreciation for those who dedicate their lives, on a daily basis, to living out their call to serve others.
If you would like to learn about ways you can be in service to people living in poverty in our community and would like to hear more about being in a Missional Community (or starting a new one) please feel free to contact me.
Brenda Blake, Director, Church and Community Work
*A Missional Community is a group of people, about the size of an extended family, who are united through Christian community around a common service and witness to a particular neighborhood or network of relationships.
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"Invitation from a Stranger"
Two weeks ago I was doing Vespers. Holy Week was coming and I was going to teach a class that night after Vespers and the evening meal on the Last Week of Jesus' life. We would be examining the events of Good Friday.
I conducted Vespers which is always very personally meaningful to me. Gazing out the window at the garden and oak tree at the cross in the fading light while Stan played some marvelous meditation music, I wondered what the Garden of Gethsemane was like. What was it like when Jesus was there and in such pain as he faced a decision? I find peace in the garden outside the sanctuary window, but his garden experience must have been quite different and I am sure he felt alone.
After Vespers I was walking up the center isle greeting people and noticed a couple in their 60s whose faces were unknown to me. I greeted them and asked if they were visitors. They said "yes." In fact, they were here visiting from Kansas and had been over in the shopping center when they struck up a conversation with a man who said he was a member here and they should come by for Vespers if they had nothing else to do. So they came.
They asked who one man in the congregation was because they thought he might be the man who had given them the invitation and wanted to thank him. I responded and went on my way after telling them how glad we were they came.
When I entered Linder Hall on my way to set up for class I noticed this couple had stayed for the meal and were conversing with everyone at their table. I thought how wonderful; they found the person who invited them and stayed to have a meal together. The couple then came to my class. When they came in I greeted them again and said I was so glad that they had found the person who invited them to Vespers and stayed. They told me they never found the man they had met in the shopping center who had invited them. No one in the Hall was the man they had met, but they chose to stay anyway.
After the class ended the woman of this couple approached me and asked for a moment so we found a quiet spot in the hall and sat down. She confided to me that they had had a phone call from a neighbor back in Kansas that day telling them the neighbor’s daughter had been murdered. This woman and her husband looked at me and tearfully asked, “What do I say to my friends?” My response was, “just be there for them.” I told them there was nothing that they could say that would make it better... but their loving presence would hold them in God’s love. They left.
An invitation from a stranger that brings a couple to a church where they find companionship, hospitality, peace and comfort. Who was the man that invited them? In once sense I guess it doesn’t matter. In another sense in may be the living Christ.
Pastor Greg
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"Our Lenten Journey"
Being a proud member of the Christian community, I have spent the last six weeks preparing for and anticipating Easter. As the years pass and I experience the Lenten journey from Ash Wednesday through Easter, it is sometimes surprising to me just how unique and more meaningful I am able to experience it every year.

The juxtaposition of great joy and great despair struck me again this past week as I looked out at the plain wooden cross amongst a tapestry of color on our hillside behind the altar. I found myself staring at the contrast of the weathered wood and the fresh grass and flowers; the simplicity of the cross against the complexity of nature...all here by design and in complete love for us.
I would have thought that given the number of Easters I have celebrated in my life, this Holy Week would be a routine that I am accustomed to, one that I know exactly what to expect, and one that would feel comfortable and familiar to me. I must admit that instead, I am feeling on-edge, a little sad, and very uncertain...and I know how things work out in the end!
Looking out on the cross on the hillside, I am filled with a certain sense of calm in this time of discomfort. We each have our own Lenten journey, but when it is through the cross, we all come through it together, triumphant and jubilant in the life of our risen Lord.
May each of you be blessed on your own Lenten journey and know that our God is a loving and wondrous father, caring for and loving each of us exactly where we are, as we are.
Jan Newton, Executive Administrator
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Walk or Run Part 2
Whenever I write these blogs I always look back on my previous ones to see what I wrote about last. I do this for two reasons, first, to make sure that I am not repeating myself and second, to see if there is anything I need to report in on. I’ve done this a couple of times and I think it is working out so far.

I was looking back at my last post, called “Walk or Run,” which was basically about running to a finish line instead of walking to it. After I wrote that post I started to run in many areas of my life, not just school (what I was talking about in the previous blog). After I reread the post, I started to think more about walking or running, and with it being so close to Easter, my mind went straight to Jesus.
I started to ask myself questions about Jesus -- did he ever walk in his life? I am not talking about physically walking, of course he physically walked. Rather, did Jesus ever slow down or was he always running to the cross? I don’t know why, but this question has stuck with me. Did Jesus ever slow down?
We don’t hear about Jesus slowing down. Yes, he had obstacles before him and there were times when he went off and prayed to his Father. But did he ever slow down like we do sometimes? Did Jesus ever relax -- maybe kick his feet up on a table he made, after healing some people in a city, and eat some food with his buddies? I can’t think of anywhere in scripture that tells us he did or didn't relax.
I know there are times in my life where I slow down; I kick my feet up when in all honesty I shouldn’t. The reason why this question has been on my mind so much is because I know he didn’t slow down during Holy Week. In fact he kept running. He kept running to the cross. It made me really reflect on if I am running as deeply and passionately as Jesus? Or do I need to speed up?
I personally don’t think Jesus ever slowed down. I think everything that he did and said was for the cross. But I am still working through this. I am still asking myself these questions about Jesus and my own life.
Richard Annett, Director of Student Ministries
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"Take Up Your Cross--What Does It Mean?"
I had the opportunity to preach recently about what it takes to be a follower of Jesus. Jesus says in Mark 8:34 “If any want to become my followers, let them deny themselves, take up their cross, and follow me.” As I shared in my sermon, this text led me to think about and notice the crosses all around me, and to pray that God would help me understand these words more deeply so that I might put them into action in my life.
One of the first things I noticed is how "happy" we make the cross look. We have re-appropriated a symbol that used to mean oppression, torture, and brutality, and have made it a symbol of hope, wholeness, and even joy! In many ways I see this move as extremely positive – as proof that light shines in the darkness, and the darkness cannot overcome it. That God can redeem and reclaim even the worst areas of human life.
It also presents a challenge for us, of course, as we try and understand what Jesus means when he says “take up your cross.” This is a call to sacrifice, and to remember that our very lives belong to God. Trying to keep ourselves safe is a human priority; following Jesus as he loves and serves others is a divine priority.
After one of the Sanctuary worship services, someone stopped me to make sure I knew about the crosses, made out of white stones, that are embedded in the floor at the entrance of the three sets of doors that lead to the lower Sanctuary. I had forgotten about these wonderful testaments of faith, and proclamations about why we enter this space of worship: we seek to follow Jesus, to deny ourselves, to take up our cross.
Other congregants pointed out crosses they found on cars, on the sides of the pews, in windows as they went about their work weeks, etc. It has been such a blessing to me to see these symbols of hope and sacrifice in so many places – not that they had not been there before, but in the busyness of life and its distractions, I had not seen them.
As the season of Lent will soon come to a close, and Holy Week draws near, I want to continue the practice of noticing hope and sacrifice in unlikely, everyday places. And I want to continue to hear Jesus’ words as a challenge to follow him – not just in times of joy, but when it requires true, costly sacrifice.
Rev. Jessica Strysko, Pastor of Missions and Family Ministry
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It's All about Love
Another shelter rotation has come and gone and I am feeling very blessed and peaceful. This rotation was an exceptional one on many levels. In my last blog, a few weeks ago, I was trying to encourage more church members to sign up to volunteer for various tasks, and most of all to consider being an overnight host. I am beyond pleased to share with you that we had 13 new volunteers this year. And more than half were overnight hosts. And, when asked if they would stay again next year, all said yes! That includes the ones I called on more than once to fill in after getting last minute cancellations.
The next reason I feel this year was an exceptionally good one was because all 11 of our guests were perfect candidates for this particular shelter program. Each was motivated and focused on their goals of moving toward self-sufficiency and permanent housing. All expressed at one time or another during their stay how very grateful they were to our church (and other churches) for opening our doors and allowing this space to become a temporary home. A home where they had plenty of healthy food to eat, a place to shower, and perhaps most importantly, a safe place, off the streets, to sleep.
And yet again, I had the awesome privilege of seeing members of our congregation actively living out their faith in word and deed. Each time I witnessed one of these moments I was reminded of one of my favorite Mother Teresa quotes; “In this life we cannot do great things. We can only do small things with great love.”
Among my favorite moments were these acts of service, acts of love, I witnessed: every single volunteer, without exception, offered warmth, hospitality, and kind and encouraging words and made our guests feel very welcome here. As one guest stated, “I feel so comfortable with everyone, it feels like home.” Another made up a backpack for our two-year-old guest and put in a warm blanket and baby doll. Mom reported she wrapped the child in the blanket to protect her from the cold and rain on a particularly dismal day during their stay. Then there were the 11 McDonald gift cards two members purchased through out Heart of Christianity Sunday school class that they donated to give to each one in the shelter. These were more appreciated than I have the words to tell you! And there were so many meals, made with so much love. Remember that Chicken Taco Stew I told you about in my last blog? Not only did she walk in with the three pots of stew, but she had several bags of items to go with it. She set right to work chopping up the fresh cilantro, putting out chips and salsa; “after all,” she told me, “you have to have all the side things with it or it just wouldn’t be the same!”
Upon leaving, only two of our guests had transitioned into a more permanent living situation. Please join me, in keeping the other nine and all of the people in our world who are seeking food and shelter in our prayers.
Brenda Blake, Church and Community Worker
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Living Authentically
On Ash Wednesday we began the season of Lent, and it was, again, a real privilege to be part of the service; to offer and share communion, to be reminded that we are mortal, and that Jesus chose to become human with us out of love for us.
My original call to ministry was when I was an acolyte in a Lutheran church at age 14, during a Maundy Thursday Tenebrae Service. Tenebrae is a Latin word for ”shadows” or darkness.” This is a dramatic service the night before Good Friday. The light in the sanctuary is slowly diminished until the entire sanctuary is dark as the service finishes. At the end of the service a loud sound is made, usually a strident chord on the organ signifying Jesus' death. The light of the world goes out--for a time. We leave the service in silence as the altar is stripped.
What impressed me this past Ash Wednesday was the call to be authentic and real. As a therapist this is hallmark; helping people find out who they really are, instead of living a life of “shoulds.” Feeling and thinking what we are told to think and feel, instead of what we genuinely think and feel, is what therapy and wholeness is truly about.
When so many of us are told how to think and feel, deny who we really are inside, life goes dark--inside and out. Indeed, when we do this the world grows darker. We lose, or forsake, who we really are, and our genuine interests, for those desired by others until we no longer know who we really are. True darkness results.
To live authentically requires knowing who we really are, what we truly think and feel, and being authentic to that inner being. Our society puts great pressure on us to conform, rather than transform. To become who we really are can threaten the established order and so we conform rather than transform.
Scripture is the story of individuals, a specific group of people, called to become who they really are, and that invariably involves difficulty and challenge. At times these individuals refused to be genuine, and the Jews failed to be who they genuinely were called to be at times, but God remained faithful. Living authentically is the call we all receive.
Jesus is the ultimate example of living an authentic life. Being who he really was, being who God called him to be despite political and religious pressure, was his life's work, and what he came to teach us. Ultimately being who he was so threatened the political and religious institutions that they struck out at him and killed him. Gandhi and Martin Luther King are contemporary examples of being and living authentically that had consequences, and that led also to the betterment of all mankind.
Swiss psychiatrist, Carl Jung, once noted that living authentically could change the world if each individual would connect with their authentic self. If each of us becomes who God has made us to be and brings the genuine gift planted in us from before we were born, then all of us benefit. We can impact our immediate world and those around us by living an authentic and fulfilling life.
Use this Lenten time to explore what it means for you to live an authentic life. And trust God to help bring you the understanding of who you are in Christ and put light into the world by doing so.
Pastor Greg
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Selma: I Vote Yes
To honor Martin Luther King Weekend, John and I attended the movie, Selma. This powerful movie was appropriately released on the 50th year of the Voting Rights Act.
The Civil Rights Movement needed to focus on how to bring about change. The scene where they explored various options was compelling. How do you prevent violence? How do they let justice roll down? How do you live without fear of bombings and brutality?
They debated: how could there be justice without true vote and voice? If you cannot vote, you cannot serve on a jury. Without equal representation on juries, trials are biased. Without the vote, you cannot turn out corrupt and racist sheriffs and elected officials. How can you have justice without the vote?
The scene when Oprah Winfrey’s character, Annie Lee Cooper, went before the county official for her voting exam, was disturbing. “Does your employer know you are here?” The questioning escalated from questions about the constitution to names of counties, to names of officials. No one could possibly pass this oral exam! And yet, she returned over and over again after more study and memorization.
So the vote is what they would focus on. I found myself narrating the current lives of the characters. Oh there is the Andrew Young, who went onto be Mayor of Atlanta and the U.S. Ambassador to the U. N. Rosie Greer was a football player and activist. And there is John Lewis, an important voice and someone who went onto be a US Congressman and is still in congress today. Three days after our viewing, Rep. John Lewis was front and center in the images of the President’s State of the Union Address to Congress. In many ways we have come a long way. In many ways we have not.
Our friends of color are still stopped by police and treated differently. How can we rest comfortably when a child with a play gun is shot and that decision to shoot and kill is made in two minutes without appropriate steps of intervention? How can we encourage everyone to exercise the hard won right and obligation to vote? Amos 5:24: “But let justice roll down like waters and righteousness like an ever-flowing stream." May it be so! Amen
I encourage you to watch Selma!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x6t7vVTxaic
Rev. Mary Allman-Boyle, Executive Pastor
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The Happiest Place on Earth

The Newton’s took some vacation time earlier this month, a day of which included a trip to the self-proclaimed happiest place on earth – Disneyland. I will not deny the lure of the Mouse House and the fun that we enjoyed there; a fun that was had in family time together, enjoying the sights, the sounds, the rides, and our fair share of meals, treats, and snacks.
We have many photos (including a batch of shameless selfies) to validate that a good time was had by all and, indeed, we are very happy when we are all together. As we reflected on our day and what made it so great – so HAPPY – I was struck by how we are able to transform a day at an amusement park into something described as the happiest place on earth, yet often struggle to see the joy, beauty and happiness that a life together in God brings to each of us.
I am not advocating that we abandon a day at Disneyland as a source of fun – rather, we take that same zeal, energy, and enthusiasm and apply it to our daily life… the place where we constantly live and engage with one another. We are called to love God and serve one another; if each of us embraced this calling and did our very best to live it out every waking moment, it would undoubtedly have a transformational and remarkable impact on the world, making EVERY place the happiest on earth.
Throw in some ice cream, and this life in God indeed has it all!
Jan Newton
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Walk or Run?
I have been in school for the past 22 years of my life, not including preschool. Out of those 22 years I have been going to school non-stop for nine years, only getting a break after summer school, before fall, and then during the winter. I have to say, I am getting burned out and I have the worst case of senioritis in the world right now. I currently have three more classes left and then I am officially finished with my Masters of Divinity.
Seminary is an amazing experience and I am totally enjoying it. I love the professors that I have; I love my classmates and the relationships that are being built. However, I am not going to lie, getting my homework and reading done is a little tedious. I sit down, look at the work that is before me, and time just seems to slow down. You know in those movies where they slow down the film, frame by frame. That is what it feels like when I am doing homework. Five minutes go by and it feels like forty-five. Sometimes I am ready to pull out the little hair that I have on my head.
At the same time, I know I can’t give up, I’m almost there. A wise person once told me, “You don’t walk to the finish line in a race, you run.” I am six months away from being done with my Masters. That is 180 days, 4,320 hours, and 259,200 minutes. I need to start running and I think I am going to, and then I can stop and get a drink of water and get ready for the next race; A Master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy.
Richard Annett, Director of Student Ministries
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Just Let Go!
It’s been a while since I’ve written about my dogs, so I thought it was time to share another story about them.

I have to hold myself back so that not every blog post is about Spartacus (our poodle mix) and Merlin (our boxer mix). They bring my husband and I a lot of joy, and if you’ve ever been a pet owner, you know that they hold a special place in your heart and life. As you can see in this picture of them, our dogs to play together – especially tug-of-war, even though they are quite different in size. As a result, toys do not last long in our house, and the best toys have plenty of space for two sets of canine teeth and a good place for human hands to grip. Fortunately for the dogs, we are well supplied.
Recently, we had a life group gathering at our home and when things were wrapping up, we let the dogs out and they were doing their usual entertaining. There was much laughter, a few plates and glasses that were unintentionally shared, and a few cell phone videos created. At one point, Merlin had the end of one toy that Spartacus just refused to let go of, and the result was that Spartacus slid across the laminate floor. At another point they traded playful growls, shaking their heads to try and loosen the other’s grip, and scouting backwards to try and yank it away. We spend a lot of time watching scenes like this in our house, and we love the joy it brings others who see it for the first time.
Watching our dogs play tug-of-war can be a comical reminder to me of how important – and how difficult it is – for human beings in particular to let go. Whether it is our need to take time to relax and renew (letting go of the to-do list), or our need to practice forgiveness (letting go of past hurts), we can all use a reminder from time-to-time to let go. The upcoming Ash Wednesday speaker, the Rev. Nicole Riley, will be speaking to us on this subject “Just Let Go” as we prepare to enter the season of Lent once more. Letting go is not easy, and we aren’t always sure exactly when to do it. But our church family is a great place to begin asking the question of how to trust God more and more – which is what it takes if we are to truly let go of the things that keep us weighed down.
I love it when the antics of puppies lead me to spiritual reflection – and it happens more than you could imagine. God is good, God is in our laughter and our times of joy, as well as present to comfort us in times of sorrow and loss. May God’s presence be visible to you today and always!
Pastor Jessica
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Fears of the unknown
It’s almost that time again...
In just a few short weeks from now (February 22 through March 8) our Interfaith Shelter guests will be arriving on our campus for a two week stay. I am so pleased that our Congregation has participated in this ministry for most of the 29 years of the program’s existence.
As we begin preparing for our guest’s arrival there is much work to be done. As you might imagine, it takes many volunteers to help get everything in place to ensure that our guests are comfortable and well cared for during their visit with us. When I put my signup sheets out looking for volunteers to prepare an evening meal and for overnight hosting I am always excited to see how quickly the sheets fill up for the meals. Time and again I have the privilege of listening to volunteers talk about the dishes they will loving prepare and serve our guests. Many worry about making sure they are not duplicating dishes, or asking how the food can be kept hot while waiting to be served or how much they should make.
I was inspired this week when one of our church members signed up to make three pots of Chicken Taco Stew the day after she gets back from a one week work trip out of town and the day before she goes back to school! I ask her if she was sure she wanted to do this and without hesitation she commented, “Absolutely!”
The overnight hosting list fills up less quickly. Often volunteers express some fears of the unknown. Who are these people we are hosting? Where do they come from? Do they come in right off of the street? These are great questions to ask and I hope I can help provide a little insight into the process our guests undertake before being admitted to the shelter.
Shelter guests are only sent to congregations in the Network after being screened by an area Social Service agency to assure there will be no active drug, alcohol, or mental health issues. Each guest is working closely with the referring social service agency to resolve the problems leading to their homelessness.
I am always filled with joy when an overnight host, who may have had some discomfort about staying overnight, tells me how awesome the experience was and yes, please sign me up again!
For more information...
Brenda Blake, Director, Church & Community Work
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You have all seen them
All of us have seen “them”. As we drive around town we inevitably come to a stop light and find a disheveled person standing there with a sign asking for help and assistance. Always ending with “God Bless You” as if to remind us that God loves a cheerful giver and it is our as Christians to care for others… at times it feels a bit manipulative. After all if I give them money how do I know I am not enabling them to buy drugs or alcohol.
Just last Sunday a young man came into the church office on Sunday morning and I was not in one of our worship services so I took him to get a cup of coffee and listen to a story I was sure I had heard before from other like him.
He had on shorts and it was a very cold morning. He wanted some clothes and money for a trolley pass. We don’t give out cash, but Brenda Blake and Nancy Pritchett helped me package up some food and I had a McDonalds gift card I had purchased from our Hearts of Christianity Class. They sell them so we can give them out instead of cash. You can get them on Sunday mornings in Linder Hall for $5, but I felt a bit “worked”. I eventually gave that young man $10 cash, because I realized I am called to give... he is responsible for how he uses that money.
We all have seen them and had our encounters with them. But two members of our church had an encounter with one over a period of years. His name was Harry, and he had a story. Gary and Myrna Cox who sing in our choir and they used to see Harry every winter when they were commuting between here and Colorado. He caught their attention and over the years they learned Harry’s story. They eventually published a book about their relationship with him titled “Harry”.
They gifted me a copy just before Christmas and I finally sat down to read it. Gary and Myrna have become friends I respect, but I did not expect the story to affect me the way it did.
Harry was a person, not a category. This blog is not the place to tell the entire story, and, really, it isn’t mine to tell. But I invited Gary and Myrna to come to the 8 AM, Koinonia class and share their story of their relationship with Harry. It had quite an impact.
In Matthew 25 there is a place where Jesus says, “when you have done it unto the least of these, you have done it unto to me.” Then there is that pesky “Good Samaritan” story. Gary and Myrna, and their friend Harry, reminded me of these stories from scripture. Jesus calls us to close the distance and see the person, not the category.
They also reminded me that as long as we categorize people as “them” and those” we relate to them as a group, not as individuals with unique lives and stories... but as human beings.
Harry wasn’t lazy. Harry was lost. Gary and Myrna found him and treated him as an individual with a story. And it is a good story. Labels keep people at a distance. We have a fund in Harry’s name you can give to. Call the Finance office or me for more information.
Pastor Greg
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The Hundred-foot Journey - a film review
This week was full of terror in France. Attacks on cartoonists, a Kosher Deli, a policewoman, and our sense of security and freedom of expression. Our hearts go out to those families as well the families of the world.
It may seem odd to write about a movie at these difficult times. But this movie, I believe, speaks a word of truth into our situation.
Without giving away the whole story, the trailers inform that this family migrates from India due to violence perpetrated on them. Hassan, the narrator as a young man, is not even sure the nature or reasoning of the violence other than different backgrounds; and politics.
As they try to find a new home in Europe, there are glimpses of prejudices. Border agents who wonder if the young sister is a mail order bride or that Hassan is really a cook or exagerating his skill set to be allowed into Europe. As they locate in the south of France, some are gracious while others are fearful of the different. Fear of an Indian Restaurant only a hundred feet away from a renowned French restaurant brings its troubles and hatred ensues.
While there are mixed reviews, I recommend this movie. The movie explores love and romance on many levels. And the common language of culinary arts transcends cultural differences. Oprah Winfrey and Steven Spielberg, who have brought other important works about racism, bring us this work at a timely moment. If only the spice of life could bridge the cultural divides and bring unity and love as in this movie. May it be so.
Rev. Mary Allman-Boyle
Watch the movie trailer...
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Taking Inventory
For the last eight or nine years, we have tried to make it a tradition in the Newton household to take a family photo on New Year's Day. In addition to capturing the subtle changes in our hair and clothing styles as the years progress, it is also a good way for us to keep track of how many dogs we have and who they are!

My husband (with a lot of encouragement from our daughter) is a notorious dog collector—'Softie' I call him—who spends a lot of hours at a local no-kill shelter walking the dogs deemed "too wild" or "too strong" for the other volunteers to take out. Many of these dogs have been waiting upwards of three years to be adopted and on occasion David gets very attached to one, sells me on their hard-luck story, and then brings them home to live with us.
Looking back on our photos over the years and remembering all of the fun that we have had trying to get everyone to face forward at the same time makes me think about how God must take "inventory" of us. Much like a loving parent, I imagine Him to watch us with love and joy as we experience the ups and downs of our daily lives, taking great delight when we make the time to spend with Him and recognize all that He provides for us.
We all have a hard-luck story of some kind, but we also all have a Heavenly Father who loves us greatly and provides so much for us. It is good to take inventory of these things and be a part of the inventory process too. I am delighted to be counted among God's many beloved and precious children, never too wild or too strong to be a part of God's family.
Jan Newton
Happy New Year!

It's 2015, I can’t believe it is a New Year! How can 2014 already be over? Every year millions of people try to make a New Year’s resolutions, including myself. Sometimes I succeed and sometimes I don’t. This past year I succeed in my resolution.
A few days before the New Year, I usually think about that to do, what I should change or work on. Usually its stuff like surf more, get in shape, be happier, get organize, things that most people tend to think about.
This past year however, I decided to change up how to come up with my resolution. I decided that I should spend some time praying about what God wanted me to work on. I knew that God loved me just the way I was, but I also knew that God wanted me to become the best I could. So I sat in prayer for a few days in the morning thinking about what I should work on. I also did some research on how to succeed in your New Year’s Resolution and I found some interesting facts about why people tend to fail. Most people fail because their goals aren’t realistic, they don’t plan ahead or map it out, and they beat themselves up when they fail.
At first, my resolution was to lose weight and get in shape to look better. With the information I had on how to succeed and I realized that was a pretty unrealistic goal, and pretty vague. So I changed it to, “be healthier” and I wrote down what I was going to do to become healthier. My list was simple and realistic. It started out with easy things, like I would only eat fast food three times a week for a month, then the next month twice a week, and so on. I did fail every so often but instead of beating myself up over it, I forgave myself and to my surprise it worked. I was reading an article one day and it said that when we fail at something we tend to give guilt control and we continue that behavior over and over. The article said to learn to forgive ourselves and move on. I remember a time where life got busy and I ate fast food a lot and guilt creeped in. So I kept on eating fast food. Then I remembered this article and every time I ate fast food I forgave myself and moved on. With a few days I was back on track.
One thing that I did add which the articles didn’t have was prayer. I started to pray a lot more for my resolution. Since I was in prayer for what my resolution should have been I just continued to be in prayer for it. Now, I didn’t pray every day or once a week on my resolution. But when I felt tempted to get a quick bite I did pray and it helped out a lot.
Now, it’s been a year and every so often I do eat fast food but not near as much as I used to, maybe once every six weeks. Since then I am proud to say that I have lost over 30 lbs. and this year, in 2015, I am taking on another New Year’s resolution.
As I am writing this blog I am not sure exactly what it is because I am still praying about it, but I think I have an idea and it’s to work out more. I am working on a plan on how I am going to do it and I will be writing it down. I pray that I am able to succeed again and if I don’t I won’t beat myself up over it. So, we will see how I am doing in a year from now.
I hope you all have a wonderful New Year and if you take on a New Year’s resolution, that you too succeed.
Richard Annett, Director of Student Ministries at First Church
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Time to renovate in life...
My husband and I are getting ready to have our master bathroom renovated. We’re saying goodbye to the wood paneling, a strange coffin-shaped archway, a ceiling that is half ceiling tile and half dry wall, and the strange arrangement of having the only electrical outlet as far as possible from the current vanity. We spent many months picking out tile, cabinet color, and counter tops, and after several setbacks around budget or inventory or you name it, it looks like everything is finally set to go! The only remaining question is the exact start date, and after the new year that should all get ironed out. It has been a long but also an exciting process for us – something neither one of us has ever been involved in before. We are doing our own demolition and painting, and are excited to get started. I even took some pictures the other day so that we can eventually have before and after photos to share.
This time of year is a good time to think about renovations in our spiritual lives too. What has been functioning well in our lives in 2014? What may God be calling us to change, invest more in, or even tear down in 2015?
As we begin this new year, I have been reflecting on a few things about the renovating work the Holy Spirit is doing in each one of us:
Remembering that every person is created in God’s image (Genesis 1:26-27).
Doing the work of renovation involves tearing down and building up. (Ecclesiastes 3:3b) That means some things in my life right now may be keeping me from living and serving in the ways God is calling me. Also, I may need to seek ways to grow and make some additions to my spiritual life.
True renovation in our spiritual lives has an outward focus – How can I grow in my love of God and others in the new year? How can I be an instrument of peace?
May God b
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Missionary Renegade

Friday, October 21, 2016

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