From Pastor Molly: From the Top
It feels good to be back in the office after my month of renewal leave; during my time away, I had the chance to travel and live in France, while my husband is doing some work there. One particularly sunny day, I took an aerial tram up the Pic du Midi in the Pyrenees. From the top of this mountain peak, the views were spectacular: of snow-capped peaks and of the plains to the north. From the observatory at the top, the stars must have been spectacular that night.
This particular day on this particular mountain reminded me of how mountain tops can make things look so clear. From the top, you get a sense of how it all fits together.
This Sunday, we celebrate Transfiguration Sunday. Scripture tells of a moment in Jesus life and ministry when, with three of his closest disciples on the top of a mountain, he revealed (in dazzling light!) the glorious power of God that dwelled in him.
For them, the moment made Jesus' glory brilliantly clear, but it didn't lift their confusion about what it should mean for them, and for their lives. They continued to struggle with the challenge of figuring out how to live in the presence of such holy glory, in the every day world.
Perhaps that's one of the reasons we need the church--this community is meant to be a source of guidance and encouragement, of strength and collaboration and discernment. I'm grateful to get to share in that with you.
I look forward to being back in worship this Sunday--I hope to see you there!
grace and peace,
Pastor Molly
In Worship This Week
Sunday, February 26
Transfiguration Sunday
"In a New Light"
Rev. Molly Vetter, preaching
Matthew 17:1-9
Scripture Text: Matthew 17:1
Six days later, Yeshua took Kefa, Ya‘akov and his brother Yochanan and led them up a high mountain privately. 2 As they watched, he began to change form — his face shone like the sun, and his clothing became as white as light. 3 Then they looked and saw Moshe and Eliyahu speaking with him. 4 Kefa said to Yeshua, “It’s good that we’re here, Lord. I’ll put up three shelters if you want — one for you, one for Moshe and one for Eliyahu.” 5 While he was still speaking, a bright cloud enveloped them; and a voice from the cloud said, “This is my Son, whom I love, with whom I am well pleased. Listen to him!” 6 When the talmidim heard this, they were so frightened that they fell face down on the ground. 7 But Yeshua came and touched them. “Get up!” he said, “Don’t be afraid.” 8 So they opened their eyes, looked up and saw only Yeshua by himself.
9 As they came down the mountain, Yeshua ordered them, “Don’t tell anyone what you have seen until the Son of Man has been raised from the dead.”
John Wesley's Notes-Commentary: Matthew 17:1-9
(Read all of Matthew 17)
Verse 2
[2] And was transfigured before them: and his face did shine as the sun, and his raiment was white as the light.
And was transfigured — Or transformed. The indwelling Deity darted out its rays through the veil of the flesh; and that with such transcendent splendour, that he no longer bore the form of a servant. His face shone with Divine majesty, like the sun in its strength; and all his body was so irradiated by it, that his clothes could not conceal its glory, but became white and glittering as the very light, with which he covered himself as with a garment.
Verse 3
[3] And, behold, there appeared unto them Moses and Elias talking with him.
There appeared Moses and Elijah — Here for the full confirmation of their faith in Jesus, Moses, the giver of the law, Elijah, the most zealous of all the prophets, and God speaking from heaven, all bore witness to him.
Verse 4
[4] Then answered Peter, and said unto Jesus, Lord, it is good for us to be here: if thou wilt, let us make here three tabernacles; one for thee, and one for Moses, and one for Elias.
Let us make three tents — The words of rapturous surprise. He says three, not six: because the apostles desired to be with their Master.
Verse 5
[5] While he yet spake, behold, a bright cloud overshadowed them: and behold a voice out of the cloud, which said, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased; hear ye him.
Hear ye him — As superior even to Moses and the prophets. See Deuteronomy 18:17.
Verse 7
[7] And Jesus came and touched them, and said, Arise, and be not afraid.
Be not afraid — And doubtless the same moment he gave them courage and strength.
Verse 9
[9] And as they came down from the mountain, Jesus charged them, saying, Tell the vision to no man, until the Son of man be risen again from the dead.
Tell the vision to no man — Not to the rest of the disciples, lest they should be grieved and discouraged because they were not admitted to the sight: nor to any other persons, lest it should enrage some the more, and his approaching sufferings shall make others disbelieve it; till the Son of man be risen again - Till the resurrection should make it credible, and confirm their testimony about it.
8:30am in Epworth Lounge10:30am in the Sanctuary
Special Music: "They Could Not" sung by our chancel choir. "They Could Not"
1. They looked at Him and saw a simple man
A carpenter with healing in His hands
They saw Him calm a sea and heal a dying man
They saw but could they really understand
Chorus. They could not, They could not
Though they tried, they could not
He was just a simple carpenter but with healing in His hands
But could they really understand, they could not
2. They listened to the teaching that they heard
They wondered at the mystery of His word
They wondered what He meant, about a Father's plan
They heard but could they really understand
Chorus: They could not, They could not
Though they tried, they could not
They listened to the teaching about a Father's plan
But could they really understand, they could not
3. So finally upon a rugged cross
They killed the man who would not suffer loss
And when at last they took what willingly He gave
He died, but could they keep Him in the grave
Chorus. They could not, They could not
Praise God, they could not
And when at last they took from Him what willingly He gave
Could they keep Him in the grave, could they keep Him in the grave,
Could they keep Him in the grave...
Chorus. They could not, They could not
Praise God, they could not
And when at last they took from Him what willingly He gave
Could they keep Him in the grave, could they keep Him in the grave,
Could they keep Him in the grave, They could not!!!!
Listen to Sermons onlineVisit our Website
News From Our Members
We are getting close to the Saturday, March 4th United Methodist Women's one day Rummage Sale and I, for one, plan to be there helping the pricers as buyers check out. Now, pricers don't need much help, but having a volunteer like me use the adding machine makes the lines go faster, so we do what we can. I may as well say that my time there is until the fabulous luncheon which I enjoy, then I go home and rest while the gang closes up shop. So, we all like to do what we can...
The Lay Looker by Bob Peterson
Bob PetersonBob Peterson's popular column for the Mainsail has found new life, online! Read his view from the pews about church life and community news. You'll enjoy keeping up with the many good things happening in our congregation!
Thursday, February 23, 2017 by Bob Peterson
We are getting close to the Saturday, March 4th United Methodist Women's one day Rummage Sale and I, for one, plan to be there helping the pricers as buyers check out. Now, pricers don't need much help, but having a volunteer like me use the adding machine makes the lines go faster, so we do what we can. I may as well say that my time there is until the fabulous luncheon which I enjoy, then I go home and rest while the gang closes up shop. So, we all like to do what we can.
Two Sundays ago Church Organist, MaryAnn Stickler, moved over to the piano to play the postlude, Allemande from Partita in B Flat by Johann Sebastian Bach, written in the mid 1700's. I wondered how many of those contributing to the generous applause knew this musical work was that old. What magical wonders we still enjoy from centuries past, not just in music but art, architecture and literature. It's wonderful to hear such well performed and beautiful music.
Perhaps you too noticed the reverent silence last Sunday as our fine Choir concluded their well performed Anthem, "Create In Me A Clean Heart, O God." It was a great rendition properly done and deserved the respect of our congregation.
This Sunday we join in the ALL-CHURCH POTLUCK right after the 10:30 AM Worship Service. It will be great to welcome Pastor Molly Vetter back from her time away and enjoy visiting with each other which is what a pot-luck is designed to do. Those serving say if you forgot to bring a dish, come anyway for there always seems to be enough for those who show up. Me? I bring a pie.
Read Bob Peterson's Lay Looker column here
Coming at Church
Join Us for an All-Church Potluck on February 26!
Help us start the Lenten season and welcome back Pastor Molly! Join us after 10:30 worship for a Mardis Gras-themed potluck in Fellowship Hall. We'll have our own King cake! Just bring a dish to share. If you don't have time to cook, no problem! There's always plenty to share!
ONE DAY ONLY!!
RUMMAGE & BAKE SALE
NEXT WEEK!!!
Saturday, March 4
8am - 4pm
Bake Sale and Lunch served
ALL DAY!
From 2:00 - 4:00pm...
Fill a bag with rummage for only $5
Boutique items are half price!!All proceeds benefit United Methodist Women's
Outreach Programs
Do you have some free time to help us for the rummage sale? This Sunday (2/26) at 9:30am - help bring up boutique items from the basement: Wednesday morning (3/1) and Thursday all day (3/2) - help sort and set up the main hall; Saturday(3/4) - help during the sale; and, of course, any home-baked goods to sell in Naomi's Cafe (deliver to church Thursday (3/2). Sign up on Sunday mornings here at church!
Lent begins March 1; we invite you to join us for a special six-week study and sermon series, about what we believe, and why. Walking through the traditional statements of faith that are a part of our Apostles’ Creed, we will have a chance to look closely at what it means (and doesn’t mean) to say we believe. Based on a new book by United Methodist pastor Adam Hamilton, called Creed, this study will be used across all the age levels of our congregation, to open up conversation and deepen our faith.
So far, these are the study groups being offered. Think about which might work for you and sign up on Sundays here at church, or email the office:
Sunday afternoons,
starting March 12, 12:00 - 1:00 at Veterans Park, children welcome, hosted by Dawn Kirkemo
Monday evenings,
starting March 6, 6:30-8 PM at the home of Brad Taylor for YOUTH ONLY (Lawndale)
Wednesday evenings,
March 15, 22, 29, April 5 & 12 - 6:30- 8 PM at Rev,. Nicole's home
(15 Gaucho Dr Rolling Hills Estates)
Wednesday mornings starting March 8, 10:30-11:30am at the home of Helen Stockwell (North Redondo)Thursday mornings,
starting March 9, 11-noon in May Day Parlor with Pastor Molly
Thursday afternoons,
starting March 2 at the home of Lauren Everson in Redondo Beach
(Lauren Everson in Redondo Beach.
(open to parents bringing children- 2.5 yo will be around and a napping 15 mo).
We're hoping to have a couple more options for you very soon. Stay tuned!
Ash Wednesday Service, March 1
Faith United Methodist Church
7:30pm
Rev. Lynette Fuka, preaching
Pastor St. Paul's UMC
Mass choral anthem with
imposition of ashes.
Fellowship and refreshments
following the service
(You may bring finger foods to share)
2115 West 182nd Street, Torrance 90504
Ash Wednesday: Prayers and Ashes in the Sanctuary
Pastor Molly will be available in the sanctuary on Ash Wednesday, between 4:30-5:30pm on Wednesday, March 1, offering an invitation to prayer and the imposition of ashes. Anyone is welcome and invited to share in this special prayer that marks the beginning of the season of Lent.
A UMNS photo by Kathleen Barry
Receiving the imposition of ashes in observance of Ash Wednesday.
Why ashes on Ash Wednesday?
Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of the season of Lent. Lent is a time when many Christians prepare for Easter by observing a period of fasting, repentance, moderation and spiritual discipline.
Ash Wednesday emphasizes two themes: our sinfulness before God and our human mortality. The service focuses on both themes, helping us to realize that both have been triumphed through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
During some Ash Wednesday services, the minister will lightly rub the sign of the cross with ashes onto the foreheads of worshipers. The use of ashes as a sign of mortality and repentance has a long history in Jewish and Christian worship. Historically, ashes signified purification and sorrow for sins.
It is traditional to save the palm branches from the previous Palm Sunday service to burn to produce ashes for this service. Sometimes a small card or piece of paper is distributed on which each person writes a sin or hurtful or unjust characteristic. The cards are then brought to the altar to be burned with the palm branches. The ash cross on the forehead is an outward sign of our sorrow and repentance for sins.[Adapted from The United Methodist Book of Worship]Read more about Ash Wednesday here.
Our Next Parents' Night Out is March 24th! Sign up today!
Drop off your children at church for three hours of programming, starting at 5pm.
The evening costs $20.00 for first child ($10 for the 2nd, $5 for 3rd+) and includes dinner.
Enjoy an evening out while your kids play games, make crafts, and enjoy fellowship!
It's a great night for all!
Email Children's Ministry to reserve your spot
by March 20th!
Toddlers through 8th grade welcome!
Mark Your Calendars for Summer 2017!
Vacation Bible School: (age 3-8th grade) July 31-August 4
BeachFaith Kids Arts Camp: (K-8th grade) June 26-30
Baja Mission Trip with Inalienable:(youth & adults) July 1-8
Summer Camp at Lazy W!
Send a young person you love to camp! Registration is open now!
The cost is $435 for traditional camps and $465 for adventure camp.
Early Bird: Save $50.00 (through March 31, 2017)
Financial assistance is available, get in touch with Risa for more details!
Little Canyoneers (Grades 1-3): June 25-28
Adventure Camp (Grades 7-10): June 25-30
Elementary Camp (Grades 3-6): July 9-14 (Risa will be here!)
Junior High Camp (Grades 6-9): July 16-21
Senior High Camp (9th Grade-Graduated Seniors): July 23-29
Learn more here!
Register here
Baja Registration Open Now!
Thinking about going on Baja Mission 2017 (July 1-8)? Registration opened on February 17th!
Early Registration: $400 (but you have to make your $100 deposit and register by March 15).
Normal Registration: $475 (which requires registration and $100 deposit by May 15).Contact Stephen for more info!
Gently Used Clothing Needed...
Do you have some gently used clothing that you would like to donate? Shared Bread is in need of men's jeans, t-shirts, coats/jackets and blankets. It's best to have sizes L and XL and pants waist 32" and up. You can bring all donations to the office during the week or to fellowship hall on Sunday mornings.
Announcements
Men's Breakfast: Our next breakfast is Monday, March 6, at 7AM. Coco's Restaurant, 18120 Hawthorne Blvd. (Hawthorne and 182nd). All men of the church and their friends are welcome to join us for fellowship.
Prayer Quilt Ministry: Know someone in need of prayer? You can sponsor a free prayer quilt for them. Join us for our monthly quilting workshop on Friday, March 10 in the choir room. Even if you haven't tried quilt-making before, this is a great easy way to begin. More information is online.
Meals and More: Did you know that we have a ministry that organizes meals and other assistance for church folks in times of need? In the past, we've helped arrange rides to medical appointments, meals for people recovering from surgery, and more. Leila Grantz coordinates this ministry, using online sign-up tools. If you want to be a part of the group that she emails when there is an opportunity to help, or if you know someone who's in need of a little help, please contact the church office or Leila.
This Week: Children, Youth & Adults
Nursery (6 weeks+): The Nursery is open during both services, for ages 6 weeks to 6 yrs old. Located right off of the parking lot across from Epworth Lounge. Any questions email the Nursery Coordinator: Adriana Hwang
Children's Ministry (age 3 - 3rd Grade) Meet us upstairs in the Sunday School room at 10:30! We will be hearing the story of Jesus' Transfiguration, playing, and making a craft! We will rejoin our families in church for communion!
Church R Us (Grades 4 & 5): Start out in church with your families, then meet Jen for Sunday School during "Passing of the Peace"! You'll rejoin your family for communion!
Youth Ministry (6th-12th grade):
- Middle School Sunday School? Yes!
-Youth Group? Yep! It's a normal, 3-5pm youth group!
-Next Week (Mar 4, 3:30-7:30pm) we help with Rummage, then go to the Fun Factory, ice cream, and pizza!
-Monday Lent Dinners start March 6th at Brad's (6:30-8pm)!!
Young Adults (19-not very specific):
We gather together socially on the regular, though somewhat erratically. Contact Stephen Hale in the church office to be kept in the loop!
Adult Sunday School: Bible Study and Discussion in May Day Parlor. Sunday mornings from 9:30-10:15am. Led by Helen Stockwell and Paul Caldwell.
Thursday Pastor's Bible Study:
Thursday mornings from 11:00-noon, in May Day Parlor. All are welcome.
United Methodist News & Events
Commentary: An executive order with memory
Rev. Mark Nakagawa, our District Superintendent, wrote this commentary in reflection on the 75th Anniversary of Executive Order 9066, which led to the internment of Japanese Americans during World War II. Reminding us of our national history, he invites action in support of vulnerable communities today.
Commentary: An executive order with memory by Rev. Mark M. Nakagawa
Photo from United States Library of Congress’ Prints and Photographs division, I.D. fsa.8a31149, by Russell Lee, courtesy of Wikimedia CommonsJapanese Americans going to internment camp Manzanar in Owens Valley gather around a baggage car at the old Santa Fe Station in Los Angeles, California, April 1942. Manzanar was one of 10 camps in the United States where over 110,000 Japanese Americans were forcibly removed (incarcerated) during World War II between December 1942 to 1945.
Courtesy photo of the Rev. Mark Nakagawa.As U.S. President Donald Trump wields the power of executive order, bringing fear to vulnerable communities in 21st-century America, Japanese Americans across the country remember a similar replay of history from the last century.
This weekend marks the 75th anniversary of Executive Order 9066, issued by President Franklin D. Roosevelt on Feb. 19, 1942. E.O. 9066 gave the Secretary of War and his officers the power to establish military zones for the purpose of protecting the country from potential sabotage, espionage and fifth-column activity by potential domestic enemies.
Following the bombing of Pearl Harbor by Japan in December, 1941, E.O. 9066 specifically targeted Japanese-American communities along the West Coast. Within days after its issue, community leaders were rounded up and sent to detention facilities in Bismarck, North Dakota, and Crystal City, Texas. Among them were Christian and Buddhist clergy, judo instructors, Japanese-language teachers, and fishermen up and down the West Coast who were suspected of using their radios to communicate with the Japanese Navy.
This fear and paranoia culminated in the forced evacuation of 110,000 individuals of Japanese ancestry from the West Coast by May of that year. Within local communities, Japanese Methodist churches served as points of gathering and departure for their congregants, and as storage facilities for the personal items that they were not allowed to take with them.
From these locations, first-generation Japanese immigrants who were classified as “aliens ineligible for citizenship,” along with their second-generation American-born children, were first sent to “assembly centers,” which were temporary quarters at racetracks and fairgrounds. They were subsequently sent to 10 internment camps (FDR actually called them “concentration camps”) scattered in bleak, desolate areas across the United States.
In the midst of this fear, confusion and turmoil, a little-known event of historical proportion was conducted within the Santa Anita Racetrack Assembly Center in Southern California, the same track where Seabiscuit had finished ahead of War Admiral four years earlier.
On July 2, 1942, the third annual session of the Pacific Japanese Provisional Annual Conference was convened by Methodist Bishop James C. Baker. He was assisted by the Rev. Frank Herron Smith, a former missionary to Japan, who had been assigned to organize and oversee the work of Japanese Methodist preachers and their congregations, which were located primarily in cities that lay west of the Rockies and along the Pacific Coast.
Smith was one of two public figures who openly spoke out against the internment. The other advocate on behalf of the Japanese community was Colorado Gov. Ralph Carr, who paid the political price of being voted out of office.
This is the only documented meeting in American church history that has ever been conducted in a prison-camp setting under armed military guards. Meeting in the mess hall where the internees gathered for their daily meals, the work and ministry of the church continued. Thirty-four of the 35 active Japanese clergy were not present; they were designated as serving in a “military zone,” meaning that they had been evacuated to another assembly center located in the Western U.S.
The following year another session of the provisional conference was convened on July 9-11, 1943, in Denver, which was outside the geography of the military zones. Bishop Baker presided once again, this time being assisted by the Rev. Taro Goto, pastor of the Denver-area Japanese Methodist Church during the internment years.
The official report notes the designated assignments of “Relocation Project” being given to 27 of the clergy who had been incarcerated in an internment camp. Nevertheless, reports of baptisms, weddings and funerals continued to be reported by those pastors who ministered to their fellow internees within the camps, bringing comfort, solace and hope to them under distressing circumstances.
Upon the closing of the internment camps by 1945, the provisional conference held its first post-war meeting over the July 3-4 Independence Day observance at the Japanese Methodist Church in Oakland, California. This location was not only convenient for those who had already begun their return to the West Coast but also symbolically fitting; the Oakland church had been designated as a regional processing center for returning evacuees by the War Relocation Authority, a civilian agency that had been created to supervise the relocation.
The continuation of these church conferences during wartime and internment enabled Japanese Methodist congregants to maintain faith and hope in the midst of hopelessness and despair. Upon returning to their communities and church buildings, these faithful Methodists restarted their congregations and began rebuilding their shattered lives and communities, in the process making a way forward for their children and heirs.
General Conference, the top legislative body of The United Methodist Church, denounced the “flagrant violations of humans rights” involving Americans of Japanese ancestry. In 1980 and 1984, the church called on Congress to support legislation that would "determine appropriate remedies" for those incarcerated during World War II.
On this 75th anniversary remembrance of E.O. 9066, Japanese American United Methodists will be standing with those who oppose current executive orders to deport people who are deemed a “national security threat” to this country when no credible evidence supports it.
We will continue to stand in support of communities who risk being threatened with the same course of events as ours once experienced.
The Rev. Mark M. Nakagawa is the West District Superintendent of the California-Pacific Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church.
News media contact: Vicki Brown, Nashville, Tenn., (615) 742-5470 or newsdesk@umcom.org. To read more United Methodist news, subscribe to the free Daily or Weekly Digests.
Coming at Church
Join Us for an All-Church Potluck on February 26!
Help us start the Lenten season and welcome back Pastor Molly! Join us after 10:30 worship for a Mardis Gras-themed potluck in Fellowship Hall. We'll have our own King cake! Just bring a dish to share. If you don't have time to cook, no problem! There's always plenty to share!
ONE DAY ONLY!!
RUMMAGE & BAKE SALE
NEXT WEEK!!!
Saturday, March 4
8am - 4pm
Bake Sale and Lunch served
ALL DAY!
From 2:00 - 4:00pm...
Fill a bag with rummage for only $5
Boutique items are half price!!All proceeds benefit United Methodist Women's
Outreach Programs
Do you have some free time to help us for the rummage sale? This Sunday (2/26) at 9:30am - help bring up boutique items from the basement: Wednesday morning (3/1) and Thursday all day (3/2) - help sort and set up the main hall; Saturday(3/4) - help during the sale; and, of course, any home-baked goods to sell in Naomi's Cafe (deliver to church Thursday (3/2). Sign up on Sunday mornings here at church!
Lent begins March 1; we invite you to join us for a special six-week study and sermon series, about what we believe, and why. Walking through the traditional statements of faith that are a part of our Apostles’ Creed, we will have a chance to look closely at what it means (and doesn’t mean) to say we believe. Based on a new book by United Methodist pastor Adam Hamilton, called Creed, this study will be used across all the age levels of our congregation, to open up conversation and deepen our faith.
So far, these are the study groups being offered. Think about which might work for you and sign up on Sundays here at church, or email the office:
Sunday afternoons,
starting March 12, 12:00 - 1:00 at Veterans Park, children welcome, hosted by Dawn Kirkemo
Monday evenings,
starting March 6, 6:30-8 PM at the home of Brad Taylor for YOUTH ONLY (Lawndale)
Wednesday evenings,
March 15, 22, 29, April 5 & 12 - 6:30- 8 PM at Rev,. Nicole's home
(15 Gaucho Dr Rolling Hills Estates)
Wednesday mornings starting March 8, 10:30-11:30am at the home of Helen Stockwell (North Redondo)Thursday mornings,
starting March 9, 11-noon in May Day Parlor with Pastor Molly
Thursday afternoons,
starting March 2 at the home of Lauren Everson in Redondo Beach
(Lauren Everson in Redondo Beach.
(open to parents bringing children- 2.5 yo will be around and a napping 15 mo).
We're hoping to have a couple more options for you very soon. Stay tuned!
Ash Wednesday Service, March 1
Faith United Methodist Church
7:30pm
Rev. Lynette Fuka, preaching
Pastor St. Paul's UMC
Mass choral anthem with
imposition of ashes.
Fellowship and refreshments
following the service
(You may bring finger foods to share)
2115 West 182nd Street, Torrance 90504
Pastor Molly will be available in the sanctuary on Ash Wednesday, between 4:30-5:30pm on Wednesday, March 1, offering an invitation to prayer and the imposition of ashes. Anyone is welcome and invited to share in this special prayer that marks the beginning of the season of Lent.
A UMNS photo by Kathleen Barry
Receiving the imposition of ashes in observance of Ash Wednesday.
Why ashes on Ash Wednesday?
Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of the season of Lent. Lent is a time when many Christians prepare for Easter by observing a period of fasting, repentance, moderation and spiritual discipline.
Ash Wednesday emphasizes two themes: our sinfulness before God and our human mortality. The service focuses on both themes, helping us to realize that both have been triumphed through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
During some Ash Wednesday services, the minister will lightly rub the sign of the cross with ashes onto the foreheads of worshipers. The use of ashes as a sign of mortality and repentance has a long history in Jewish and Christian worship. Historically, ashes signified purification and sorrow for sins.
It is traditional to save the palm branches from the previous Palm Sunday service to burn to produce ashes for this service. Sometimes a small card or piece of paper is distributed on which each person writes a sin or hurtful or unjust characteristic. The cards are then brought to the altar to be burned with the palm branches. The ash cross on the forehead is an outward sign of our sorrow and repentance for sins.[Adapted from The United Methodist Book of Worship]Read more about Ash Wednesday here.
Our Next Parents' Night Out is March 24th! Sign up today!
Drop off your children at church for three hours of programming, starting at 5pm.
The evening costs $20.00 for first child ($10 for the 2nd, $5 for 3rd+) and includes dinner.
Enjoy an evening out while your kids play games, make crafts, and enjoy fellowship!
It's a great night for all!
Email Children's Ministry to reserve your spot
by March 20th!
Toddlers through 8th grade welcome!
Mark Your Calendars for Summer 2017!
Vacation Bible School: (age 3-8th grade) July 31-August 4
BeachFaith Kids Arts Camp: (K-8th grade) June 26-30
Baja Mission Trip with Inalienable:(youth & adults) July 1-8
Summer Camp at Lazy W!
Send a young person you love to camp! Registration is open now!
The cost is $435 for traditional camps and $465 for adventure camp.
Early Bird: Save $50.00 (through March 31, 2017)
Financial assistance is available, get in touch with Risa for more details!
Little Canyoneers (Grades 1-3): June 25-28
Adventure Camp (Grades 7-10): June 25-30
Elementary Camp (Grades 3-6): July 9-14 (Risa will be here!)
Junior High Camp (Grades 6-9): July 16-21
Senior High Camp (9th Grade-Graduated Seniors): July 23-29
Learn more here!
Register here
Baja Registration Open Now!
Thinking about going on Baja Mission 2017 (July 1-8)? Registration opened on February 17th!
Early Registration: $400 (but you have to make your $100 deposit and register by March 15).
Normal Registration: $475 (which requires registration and $100 deposit by May 15).Contact Stephen for more info!
Gently Used Clothing Needed...
Do you have some gently used clothing that you would like to donate? Shared Bread is in need of men's jeans, t-shirts, coats/jackets and blankets. It's best to have sizes L and XL and pants waist 32" and up. You can bring all donations to the office during the week or to fellowship hall on Sunday mornings.
Announcements
Men's Breakfast: Our next breakfast is Monday, March 6, at 7AM. Coco's Restaurant, 18120 Hawthorne Blvd. (Hawthorne and 182nd). All men of the church and their friends are welcome to join us for fellowship.
Prayer Quilt Ministry: Know someone in need of prayer? You can sponsor a free prayer quilt for them. Join us for our monthly quilting workshop on Friday, March 10 in the choir room. Even if you haven't tried quilt-making before, this is a great easy way to begin. More information is online.
Meals and More: Did you know that we have a ministry that organizes meals and other assistance for church folks in times of need? In the past, we've helped arrange rides to medical appointments, meals for people recovering from surgery, and more. Leila Grantz coordinates this ministry, using online sign-up tools. If you want to be a part of the group that she emails when there is an opportunity to help, or if you know someone who's in need of a little help, please contact the church office or Leila.
This Week: Children, Youth & Adults
Nursery (6 weeks+): The Nursery is open during both services, for ages 6 weeks to 6 yrs old. Located right off of the parking lot across from Epworth Lounge. Any questions email the Nursery Coordinator: Adriana Hwang
Children's Ministry (age 3 - 3rd Grade) Meet us upstairs in the Sunday School room at 10:30! We will be hearing the story of Jesus' Transfiguration, playing, and making a craft! We will rejoin our families in church for communion!
Church R Us (Grades 4 & 5): Start out in church with your families, then meet Jen for Sunday School during "Passing of the Peace"! You'll rejoin your family for communion!
Youth Ministry (6th-12th grade):
- Middle School Sunday School? Yes!
-Youth Group? Yep! It's a normal, 3-5pm youth group!
-Next Week (Mar 4, 3:30-7:30pm) we help with Rummage, then go to the Fun Factory, ice cream, and pizza!
-Monday Lent Dinners start March 6th at Brad's (6:30-8pm)!!
Young Adults (19-not very specific):
We gather together socially on the regular, though somewhat erratically. Contact Stephen Hale in the church office to be kept in the loop!
Adult Sunday School: Bible Study and Discussion in May Day Parlor. Sunday mornings from 9:30-10:15am. Led by Helen Stockwell and Paul Caldwell.
Thursday Pastor's Bible Study:
Thursday mornings from 11:00-noon, in May Day Parlor. All are welcome.
United Methodist News & Events
Commentary: An executive order with memoryRev. Mark Nakagawa, our District Superintendent, wrote this commentary in reflection on the 75th Anniversary of Executive Order 9066, which led to the internment of Japanese Americans during World War II. Reminding us of our national history, he invites action in support of vulnerable communities today.
Commentary: An executive order with memory by Rev. Mark M. Nakagawa
Photo from United States Library of Congress’ Prints and Photographs division, I.D. fsa.8a31149, by Russell Lee, courtesy of Wikimedia CommonsJapanese Americans going to internment camp Manzanar in Owens Valley gather around a baggage car at the old Santa Fe Station in Los Angeles, California, April 1942. Manzanar was one of 10 camps in the United States where over 110,000 Japanese Americans were forcibly removed (incarcerated) during World War II between December 1942 to 1945.
Courtesy photo of the Rev. Mark Nakagawa.As U.S. President Donald Trump wields the power of executive order, bringing fear to vulnerable communities in 21st-century America, Japanese Americans across the country remember a similar replay of history from the last century.This weekend marks the 75th anniversary of Executive Order 9066, issued by President Franklin D. Roosevelt on Feb. 19, 1942. E.O. 9066 gave the Secretary of War and his officers the power to establish military zones for the purpose of protecting the country from potential sabotage, espionage and fifth-column activity by potential domestic enemies.
Following the bombing of Pearl Harbor by Japan in December, 1941, E.O. 9066 specifically targeted Japanese-American communities along the West Coast. Within days after its issue, community leaders were rounded up and sent to detention facilities in Bismarck, North Dakota, and Crystal City, Texas. Among them were Christian and Buddhist clergy, judo instructors, Japanese-language teachers, and fishermen up and down the West Coast who were suspected of using their radios to communicate with the Japanese Navy.
This fear and paranoia culminated in the forced evacuation of 110,000 individuals of Japanese ancestry from the West Coast by May of that year. Within local communities, Japanese Methodist churches served as points of gathering and departure for their congregants, and as storage facilities for the personal items that they were not allowed to take with them.
From these locations, first-generation Japanese immigrants who were classified as “aliens ineligible for citizenship,” along with their second-generation American-born children, were first sent to “assembly centers,” which were temporary quarters at racetracks and fairgrounds. They were subsequently sent to 10 internment camps (FDR actually called them “concentration camps”) scattered in bleak, desolate areas across the United States.
In the midst of this fear, confusion and turmoil, a little-known event of historical proportion was conducted within the Santa Anita Racetrack Assembly Center in Southern California, the same track where Seabiscuit had finished ahead of War Admiral four years earlier.
On July 2, 1942, the third annual session of the Pacific Japanese Provisional Annual Conference was convened by Methodist Bishop James C. Baker. He was assisted by the Rev. Frank Herron Smith, a former missionary to Japan, who had been assigned to organize and oversee the work of Japanese Methodist preachers and their congregations, which were located primarily in cities that lay west of the Rockies and along the Pacific Coast.
Smith was one of two public figures who openly spoke out against the internment. The other advocate on behalf of the Japanese community was Colorado Gov. Ralph Carr, who paid the political price of being voted out of office.
This is the only documented meeting in American church history that has ever been conducted in a prison-camp setting under armed military guards. Meeting in the mess hall where the internees gathered for their daily meals, the work and ministry of the church continued. Thirty-four of the 35 active Japanese clergy were not present; they were designated as serving in a “military zone,” meaning that they had been evacuated to another assembly center located in the Western U.S.
The following year another session of the provisional conference was convened on July 9-11, 1943, in Denver, which was outside the geography of the military zones. Bishop Baker presided once again, this time being assisted by the Rev. Taro Goto, pastor of the Denver-area Japanese Methodist Church during the internment years.
The official report notes the designated assignments of “Relocation Project” being given to 27 of the clergy who had been incarcerated in an internment camp. Nevertheless, reports of baptisms, weddings and funerals continued to be reported by those pastors who ministered to their fellow internees within the camps, bringing comfort, solace and hope to them under distressing circumstances.
Upon the closing of the internment camps by 1945, the provisional conference held its first post-war meeting over the July 3-4 Independence Day observance at the Japanese Methodist Church in Oakland, California. This location was not only convenient for those who had already begun their return to the West Coast but also symbolically fitting; the Oakland church had been designated as a regional processing center for returning evacuees by the War Relocation Authority, a civilian agency that had been created to supervise the relocation.
The continuation of these church conferences during wartime and internment enabled Japanese Methodist congregants to maintain faith and hope in the midst of hopelessness and despair. Upon returning to their communities and church buildings, these faithful Methodists restarted their congregations and began rebuilding their shattered lives and communities, in the process making a way forward for their children and heirs.
General Conference, the top legislative body of The United Methodist Church, denounced the “flagrant violations of humans rights” involving Americans of Japanese ancestry. In 1980 and 1984, the church called on Congress to support legislation that would "determine appropriate remedies" for those incarcerated during World War II.
On this 75th anniversary remembrance of E.O. 9066, Japanese American United Methodists will be standing with those who oppose current executive orders to deport people who are deemed a “national security threat” to this country when no credible evidence supports it.
We will continue to stand in support of communities who risk being threatened with the same course of events as ours once experienced.
The Rev. Mark M. Nakagawa is the West District Superintendent of the California-Pacific Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church.
News media contact: Vicki Brown, Nashville, Tenn., (615) 742-5470 or newsdesk@umcom.org. To read more United Methodist news, subscribe to the free Daily or Weekly Digests.
Read his commentary here
Our congregation is a part of the El Tordondo Mission Area, in the West District of the California-Pacific Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church.
First United Methodist Church of Redondo Beach
Our congregation is a part of the El Tordondo Mission Area, in the West District of the California-Pacific Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church.
First United Methodist Church of Redondo Beach
243 South Broadway
Redondo Beach, California 90277, United States
310-372-8445 main
310-372-8445 main
310-372-5696 fax
Email
Website
Ongoing Ministries
Free Meal on Wednesday Nights
Offering food and friendship to those in need, every Wednesday night since 1992. More info here.
Two new ways to help: bring donations of items on Super Bowl Sunday, or volunteer to bring milk for our dinners. See above for both!
This week is Caroline McKenzie’s last day with us for a while. While Julie is singing in New York, we’ve had several wonderful sopranos step up and fill in for her. Caroline once told me that she really wanted to sing blues with Gaku, so we’re closing our time with Caroline with a blues arrangement, written by Caroline herself, of Ain’t-A-That Good News. Ain’t-A-That Good News is a spiritual, not to be confused with the Sam Cooke tune from 1960.
One Thing Remains is a song that was written in 2010 by Brian Johnson, Jeremy Riddle and Christa Black Gifford. It was recorded and released as part of the live album Come Away, which was recorded at the 2010 Jesus Culture Encounter Conference. The Jesus Culture Conference began as...Music Notes by Jim Raycroft
Ongoing Ministries
Offering food and friendship to those in need, every Wednesday night since 1992. More info here.
Two new ways to help: bring donations of items on Super Bowl Sunday, or volunteer to bring milk for our dinners. See above for both!
One Thing Remains is a song that was written in 2010 by Brian Johnson, Jeremy Riddle and Christa Black Gifford. It was recorded and released as part of the live album Come Away, which was recorded at the 2010 Jesus Culture Encounter Conference. The Jesus Culture Conference began as...Music Notes by Jim Raycroft
Music Director, Jim Raycroft, will
share upcoming worship music
selections and a little bit of history, too.
Jim Raycroft
Thursday, February 23, 2017 - Music Notes by Jim Raycroft
This week is Caroline McKenzie's last day with us for a while. While Julie is singing in New York, we've had several wonderful sopranos step up and fill in for her. Caroline once told me that she really wanted to sing blues with Gaku, so we're closing our time with Caroline with a blues arrangement, written by Caroline herself, of Ain't-A-That Good News. Ain't-A-That Good News is a spiritual, not to be confused with the Sam Cooke tune from 1960.
One Thing Remains is a song that was written in 2010 by Brian Johnson, Jeremy Riddle and Christa Black Gifford. It was recorded and released as part of the live album Come Away, which was recorded at the 2010 Jesus Culture Encounter Conference. The Jesus Culture Conference began as part of the youth group of Bethel Church in Redding, California, with the first conference being held in 1999 and attracting 500 attendees. Since then, it has grown into a musical force for worship with a full time staff of dozens and a discography that numbers 33 albums. It recently expanded to Sacramento, where they meet at Folsom High School. One Thing Remains has been covered by numerous artists, including Kristian Stanfill, Israel Houghton and Chris Tomlin.
Ron Harris is a Los Angeles–based composer/musician most renowned in Christian circles for his original song In This Very Room. At the time he wrote In This Very Room, he was music director for Carol Lawrence, and was in New Orleans, having been on the road for over a month. He had just finished a one hour phone conversation with his wife, and was feeling a bit lonely and miserable. He then looked around the hotel room, and thought to himself that there was more to this room than just the four walls. He pulled out his keyboard and wrote In This Very Room, which has become a "Top 10" standard in church music. He collaborated with lyricist Claire Cloninger to write They Could Not, this week's anthem. A very powerful song, it was recorded by Sandi Patty on a 1982 album entitled Lift Up The Lord.
Next week, we will be joined by soprano Susan Kasenow, who will be with us until the end of July.
Read more about our music here
United Methodist Women’s Reading Program Any one can read the books and our own local UMW unit will get credit! click here for information about the program.
Support missions through recycling!
Bring your plastic bottles, aluminum cans AND CRV glass bottles to church every Sunday. By recycling we can support Corazon, Crop Walk, Habitat for Humanity and some of the United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR) programs: Syrian refugee relief, eradicating hunger, clean water, ending malaria and fighting HIV/AIDS. Please bring your cans and bottles.
We have many spots to fill for liturgists on Sunday mornings. The following link will take you the sign up. Please check it out.
Sunday Worship Liturgist Sign Up
Parking Reminder: If you are able, we encourage you to park at the Wells Fargo bank on Sunday mornings, and walk across the street, reserving the parking lot for those with mobility challenges or for new visitors. We also have a bike rack on the patio. Thanks for your consideration.
Hearing Assistance Devices are available on Sunday mornings. Just ask for one at the audio/video booth in the sanctuary.
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Connect with us
First United Methodist Church
share upcoming worship music
selections and a little bit of history, too.
Jim Raycroft
Thursday, February 23, 2017 - Music Notes by Jim Raycroft
This week is Caroline McKenzie's last day with us for a while. While Julie is singing in New York, we've had several wonderful sopranos step up and fill in for her. Caroline once told me that she really wanted to sing blues with Gaku, so we're closing our time with Caroline with a blues arrangement, written by Caroline herself, of Ain't-A-That Good News. Ain't-A-That Good News is a spiritual, not to be confused with the Sam Cooke tune from 1960.
One Thing Remains is a song that was written in 2010 by Brian Johnson, Jeremy Riddle and Christa Black Gifford. It was recorded and released as part of the live album Come Away, which was recorded at the 2010 Jesus Culture Encounter Conference. The Jesus Culture Conference began as part of the youth group of Bethel Church in Redding, California, with the first conference being held in 1999 and attracting 500 attendees. Since then, it has grown into a musical force for worship with a full time staff of dozens and a discography that numbers 33 albums. It recently expanded to Sacramento, where they meet at Folsom High School. One Thing Remains has been covered by numerous artists, including Kristian Stanfill, Israel Houghton and Chris Tomlin.
Ron Harris is a Los Angeles–based composer/musician most renowned in Christian circles for his original song In This Very Room. At the time he wrote In This Very Room, he was music director for Carol Lawrence, and was in New Orleans, having been on the road for over a month. He had just finished a one hour phone conversation with his wife, and was feeling a bit lonely and miserable. He then looked around the hotel room, and thought to himself that there was more to this room than just the four walls. He pulled out his keyboard and wrote In This Very Room, which has become a "Top 10" standard in church music. He collaborated with lyricist Claire Cloninger to write They Could Not, this week's anthem. A very powerful song, it was recorded by Sandi Patty on a 1982 album entitled Lift Up The Lord.
Next week, we will be joined by soprano Susan Kasenow, who will be with us until the end of July.
Read more about our music here
United Methodist Women’s Reading Program Any one can read the books and our own local UMW unit will get credit! click here for information about the program.
Support missions through recycling!
Bring your plastic bottles, aluminum cans AND CRV glass bottles to church every Sunday. By recycling we can support Corazon, Crop Walk, Habitat for Humanity and some of the United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR) programs: Syrian refugee relief, eradicating hunger, clean water, ending malaria and fighting HIV/AIDS. Please bring your cans and bottles.
We have many spots to fill for liturgists on Sunday mornings. The following link will take you the sign up. Please check it out.
Sunday Worship Liturgist Sign Up
Parking Reminder: If you are able, we encourage you to park at the Wells Fargo bank on Sunday mornings, and walk across the street, reserving the parking lot for those with mobility challenges or for new visitors. We also have a bike rack on the patio. Thanks for your consideration.
Hearing Assistance Devices are available on Sunday mornings. Just ask for one at the audio/video booth in the sanctuary.
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Connect with us
First United Methodist Church
243 South Broadway
Redondo Beach, California 90277, United States
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