This world is so very marvelous.
This week, I've been thinking about who wondrously beautiful God's creation is, especially as I think about how deeply connected things are. As I've spent time with Mary Oliver's poems this Lent, I've had occasion to look for beauty in the world all around me. When I stop to contemplate any one thing--the birds, the sunlight, even a weed in my yard--I'm aware that it connects to so many other things that came before it or that surround it.
This world exists in relationship. We humans are most alive when we are in community. Even God has interrelationship at God's very core: the holy trinity describes God's identity as three-in-one. As those who believe in God, we also claim the value of all these parts of God's creation. In every other human, we see the image of God.
While some days, I’m inspired by how beautiful this idea is, it’s also a disturbing idea in a world where it’s far too easy to dehumanize others, and devalue the worth and dignity of other people. This Lent, we might do well to consider how we can make choices that limit our own consumption of resources, and that leverage the privilege we enjoy, for the sake of the well-being of other children of God.
May it be so.
grace and peace,
Pastor Molly
In Worship This WeekSunday, March 18:
Fifth Sunday of Lent
“Buried”
Rev. Molly Vetter, preaching
Jeremiah 31:27-34; John 12:20-33
Jeremiah 31:26 (27) “Here, the days are coming,” says Adonai, when I will sow the house of Isra’el and the house of Y’hudah with the seed of humans and the seed of animals. 27 (28) At that time, just as I used to watch over them with the intent to uproot, break down, overthrow, destroy and do harm; so then I will watch over them to build and plant,” says Adonai. 28 (29) “When those days come they will no longer say,
‘The fathers have eaten sour grapes,
and the children’s teeth are set on edge.’
29 (30) Rather, each will die for his own sin;
every one who eats sour grapes,
his own teeth will be set on edge.
30 (31) “Here, the days are coming,” says Adonai, “when I will make a new covenant with the house of Isra’el and with the house of Y’hudah. 31 (32) It will not be like the covenant I made with their fathers on the day I took them by their hand and brought them out of the land of Egypt; because they, for their part, violated my covenant, even though I, for my part, was a husband to them,” says Adonai. 32 (33) “For this is the covenant I will make with the house of Isra’el after those days,” says Adonai: “I will put my Torah within them and write it on their hearts; I will be their God, and they will be my people. 33 (34) No longer will any of them teach his fellow community member or his brother, ‘Know Adonai’; for all will know me, from the least of them to the greatest; because I will forgive their wickednesses and remember their sins no more.”
34 (35) This is what Adonai says,
who gives the sun as light for the day,
who ordained the laws for the moon and stars
to provide light for the night,
who stirs up the sea until its waves roar —
Adonai-Tzva’ot is his name:; John 12:20 Among those who went up to worship at the festival were some Greek-speaking Jews. 21 They approached Philip, the one from Beit-Tzaidah in the Galil, with a request. “Sir,” they said, “we would like to see Yeshua.” 22 Philip came and told Andrew; then Andrew and Philip went and told Yeshua. 23 Yeshua gave them this answer: “The time has come for the Son of Man to be glorified. 24 Yes, indeed! I tell you that unless a grain of wheat that falls to the ground dies, it stays just a grain; but if it dies, it produces a big harvest. 25 He who loves his life loses it, but he who hates his life in this world will keep it safe right on into eternal life! 26 If someone is serving me, let him follow me; wherever I am, my servant will be there too. My Father will honor anyone who serves me.
27 “Now I am in turmoil. What can I say — ‘Father, save me from this hour’? No, it was for this very reason that I have come to this hour. I will say this: 28 ‘Father, glorify your name!’” At this a bat-kol came out of heaven, “I have glorified it before, and I will glorify it again!” 29 The crowd standing there and hearing it said that it had thundered; others said, “An angel spoke to him.” 30 Yeshua answered, “This bat-kol did not come for my sake but for yours. 31 Now is the time for this world to be judged, now the ruler of this world will be expelled. 32 As for me, when I am lifted up from the earth, I will draw everyone to myself.” 33 He said this to indicate what kind of death he would die. (Complete Jewish Bible)
John Wesley’s Explanatory Notes: Jeremiah 31:27-34;
Verse 27
[27] Behold, the days come, saith the LORD, that I will sow the house of Israel and the house of Judah with the seed of man, and with the seed of beast.
I will sow — That is, I will exceedingly multiply them, both with men and with cattle.
Verse 31
[31] Behold, the days come, saith the LORD, that I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel, and with the house of Judah:
Behold — And not only with the Jews, but all those who should be ingrafted into that Olive. It is not called the new covenant, because it was as to the substance new, for it was made with Abraham, Genesis 17:7, and with the Jews, Deuteronomy 26:17,18, but because it was revealed after a new manner, more fully and particularly, plainly and clearly. Nor was the ceremonial law any part of it, as it was to the Jews, a strict observance of that. It was likewise new in regard of the efficacy of the spirit attending it, in a much fuller and larger manner.
Verse 32
[32] Not according to the covenant that I made with their fathers in the day that I took them by the hand to bring them out of the land of Egypt; which my covenant they brake, although I was an husband unto them, saith the LORD:
Not according — The covenant which God made with the Jews when they came out of the land of Egypt, was on God's part the law which he gave them, with the promises annexed; on their part (which made it a formal covenant) their promise of obedience to it.
Verse 33
[33] But this shall be the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel; After those days, saith the LORD, I will put my law in their inward parts, and write it in their hearts; and will be their God, and they shall be my people.
With — That is, with those who are Jews inwardly.
And write it — The prophet's design is here to express the difference betwixt the law and the gospel. The first shews duty, the latter brings the grace of regeneration, by which the heart is changed, and enabled for duty. All under the time of the law that came to salvation, were saved by this new covenant; but this was not evidently exhibited; neither was the regenerating grace of God so common under the time of the law, as it hath been under the gospel.
Verse 34
[34] And they shall teach no more every man his neighbour, and every man his brother, saying, Know the LORD: for they shall all know me, from the least of them unto the greatest of them, saith the LORD: for I will forgive their iniquity, and I will remember their sin no more.
I will forgive — God makes the root of all this grace to be the free pardon, and the remission of their sins.John 12:20-33
Verse 20
[20] And there were certain Greeks among them that came up to worship at the feast:
Certain Greeks — A prelude of the Gentile Church. That these were circumcised does not appear. But they came up on purpose to worship the God of Israel.
Verse 21
[21] The same came therefore to Philip, which was of Bethsaida of Galilee, and desired him, saying, Sir, we would see Jesus.
These came to Philip of Bethsaida in Galilee — Perhaps they used to lodge there, in their journey to Jerusalem. Or they might believe, a Galilean would be more ready to serve them herein, than a Jew.
Sir — They spake to him, as to one they were little acquainted with.
We would see Jesus — A modest request. They could scarce expect that he would now have time to talk with them.
Verse 23
[23] And Jesus answered them, saying, The hour is come, that the Son of man should be glorified.
The hour is come that the Son of man should be glorified — With the Father and in the sight of every creature. But he must suffer first.
Verse 24
[24] Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except a corn of wheat fall into the ground and die, it abideth alone: but if it die, it bringeth forth much fruit.
Unless a grain of wheat die — The late resurrection of Lazarus gave our Lord a natural occasion of speaking on this subject. And agreeable to his infinite knowledge, he singles out, from among so many thousands of seeds, almost the only one that dies in the earth: and which therefore was an exceeding proper similitude, peculiarly adapted to the purpose for which he uses it. The like is not to be found in any other grain, except millet, and the large bean.
Verse 25
[25] He that loveth his life shall lose it; and he that hateth his life in this world shall keep it unto life eternal.
He that loveth his life — More than the will of God; shall lose it eternally: and he that hateth his life - In comparison of the will of God, shall preserve it. Matthew 10:39.
Verse 26
[26] If any man serve me, let him follow me; and where I am, there shall also my servant be: if any man serve me, him will my Father honour.
Let him follow me — By hating his life: and where I am - In heaven.
If any man serve me — Thus, him will the Father honour.
Verse 27
[27] Now is my soul troubled; and what shall I say? Father, save me from this hour: but for this cause came I unto this hour.
Now is my soul troubled — He had various foretastes of his passion.
And what shall I say? — Not what shall I choose? For his heart was fixed in choosing the will of his Father: but he laboured for utterance. The two following clauses, Save me from this hour - For this cause I came - Into the world; for the sake of this hour (of suffering) seem to have glanced through his mind in one moment. But human language could not so express it.
Verse 28
[28] Father, glorify thy name. Then came there a voice from heaven, saying, I have both glorified it, and will glorify it again.
Father, glorify thy name — Whatever I suffer. Now the trouble was over.
I have glorified it — By thy entrance into this hour.
And I will glorify it — By thy passing through it.
Verse 29
[29] The people therefore, that stood by, and heard it, said that it thundered: others said, An angel spake to him.
The multitude who stood and heard — A sound, but not the distinct words - In the most glorious revelations there may remain something obscure, to exercise our faith.
Said, It thundered — Thunder did frequently attend a voice from heaven. Perhaps it did so now.
Verse 31
[31] Now is the judgment of this world: now shall the prince of this world be cast out.
Now — This moment. And from this moment Christ thirsted more than ever, till his baptism was accomplished.
Is the judgment of this world — That is, now is the judgment given concerning it, whose it shall be.
Now shall the prince of this world — Satan, who had gained possession of it by sin and death, be cast out - That is, judged, condemned, cast out of his possession, and out of the bounds of Christ's kingdom.
Verse 32
[32] And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto me.
Lifted up from the earth — This is a Hebraism which signifies dying. Death in general is all that is usually imported. But our Lord made use of this phrase, rather than others that were equivalent, because it so well suited the particular manner of his death.
I will draw all men — Gentiles as well as Jews. And those who follow my drawings, Satan shall not be able to keep.
Verse 27
[27] Behold, the days come, saith the LORD, that I will sow the house of Israel and the house of Judah with the seed of man, and with the seed of beast.
I will sow — That is, I will exceedingly multiply them, both with men and with cattle.
Verse 31
[31] Behold, the days come, saith the LORD, that I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel, and with the house of Judah:
Behold — And not only with the Jews, but all those who should be ingrafted into that Olive. It is not called the new covenant, because it was as to the substance new, for it was made with Abraham, Genesis 17:7, and with the Jews, Deuteronomy 26:17,18, but because it was revealed after a new manner, more fully and particularly, plainly and clearly. Nor was the ceremonial law any part of it, as it was to the Jews, a strict observance of that. It was likewise new in regard of the efficacy of the spirit attending it, in a much fuller and larger manner.
Verse 32
[32] Not according to the covenant that I made with their fathers in the day that I took them by the hand to bring them out of the land of Egypt; which my covenant they brake, although I was an husband unto them, saith the LORD:
Not according — The covenant which God made with the Jews when they came out of the land of Egypt, was on God's part the law which he gave them, with the promises annexed; on their part (which made it a formal covenant) their promise of obedience to it.
Verse 33
[33] But this shall be the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel; After those days, saith the LORD, I will put my law in their inward parts, and write it in their hearts; and will be their God, and they shall be my people.
With — That is, with those who are Jews inwardly.
And write it — The prophet's design is here to express the difference betwixt the law and the gospel. The first shews duty, the latter brings the grace of regeneration, by which the heart is changed, and enabled for duty. All under the time of the law that came to salvation, were saved by this new covenant; but this was not evidently exhibited; neither was the regenerating grace of God so common under the time of the law, as it hath been under the gospel.
Verse 34
[34] And they shall teach no more every man his neighbour, and every man his brother, saying, Know the LORD: for they shall all know me, from the least of them unto the greatest of them, saith the LORD: for I will forgive their iniquity, and I will remember their sin no more.
I will forgive — God makes the root of all this grace to be the free pardon, and the remission of their sins.John 12:20-33
Verse 20
[20] And there were certain Greeks among them that came up to worship at the feast:
Certain Greeks — A prelude of the Gentile Church. That these were circumcised does not appear. But they came up on purpose to worship the God of Israel.
Verse 21
[21] The same came therefore to Philip, which was of Bethsaida of Galilee, and desired him, saying, Sir, we would see Jesus.
These came to Philip of Bethsaida in Galilee — Perhaps they used to lodge there, in their journey to Jerusalem. Or they might believe, a Galilean would be more ready to serve them herein, than a Jew.
Sir — They spake to him, as to one they were little acquainted with.
We would see Jesus — A modest request. They could scarce expect that he would now have time to talk with them.
Verse 23
[23] And Jesus answered them, saying, The hour is come, that the Son of man should be glorified.
The hour is come that the Son of man should be glorified — With the Father and in the sight of every creature. But he must suffer first.
Verse 24
[24] Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except a corn of wheat fall into the ground and die, it abideth alone: but if it die, it bringeth forth much fruit.
Unless a grain of wheat die — The late resurrection of Lazarus gave our Lord a natural occasion of speaking on this subject. And agreeable to his infinite knowledge, he singles out, from among so many thousands of seeds, almost the only one that dies in the earth: and which therefore was an exceeding proper similitude, peculiarly adapted to the purpose for which he uses it. The like is not to be found in any other grain, except millet, and the large bean.
Verse 25
[25] He that loveth his life shall lose it; and he that hateth his life in this world shall keep it unto life eternal.
He that loveth his life — More than the will of God; shall lose it eternally: and he that hateth his life - In comparison of the will of God, shall preserve it. Matthew 10:39.
Verse 26
[26] If any man serve me, let him follow me; and where I am, there shall also my servant be: if any man serve me, him will my Father honour.
Let him follow me — By hating his life: and where I am - In heaven.
If any man serve me — Thus, him will the Father honour.
Verse 27
[27] Now is my soul troubled; and what shall I say? Father, save me from this hour: but for this cause came I unto this hour.
Now is my soul troubled — He had various foretastes of his passion.
And what shall I say? — Not what shall I choose? For his heart was fixed in choosing the will of his Father: but he laboured for utterance. The two following clauses, Save me from this hour - For this cause I came - Into the world; for the sake of this hour (of suffering) seem to have glanced through his mind in one moment. But human language could not so express it.
Verse 28
[28] Father, glorify thy name. Then came there a voice from heaven, saying, I have both glorified it, and will glorify it again.
Father, glorify thy name — Whatever I suffer. Now the trouble was over.
I have glorified it — By thy entrance into this hour.
And I will glorify it — By thy passing through it.
Verse 29
[29] The people therefore, that stood by, and heard it, said that it thundered: others said, An angel spake to him.
The multitude who stood and heard — A sound, but not the distinct words - In the most glorious revelations there may remain something obscure, to exercise our faith.
Said, It thundered — Thunder did frequently attend a voice from heaven. Perhaps it did so now.
Verse 31
[31] Now is the judgment of this world: now shall the prince of this world be cast out.
Now — This moment. And from this moment Christ thirsted more than ever, till his baptism was accomplished.
Is the judgment of this world — That is, now is the judgment given concerning it, whose it shall be.
Now shall the prince of this world — Satan, who had gained possession of it by sin and death, be cast out - That is, judged, condemned, cast out of his possession, and out of the bounds of Christ's kingdom.
Verse 32
[32] And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto me.
Lifted up from the earth — This is a Hebraism which signifies dying. Death in general is all that is usually imported. But our Lord made use of this phrase, rather than others that were equivalent, because it so well suited the particular manner of his death.
I will draw all men — Gentiles as well as Jews. And those who follow my drawings, Satan shall not be able to keep.
8:30am in Epworth Lounge
10:30am in the Sanctuary
Special Music: “Thy Will Be Done” sung by the Chancel Choir
News From Our Members
10:30am in the Sanctuary
Special Music: “Thy Will Be Done” sung by the Chancel Choir
Thy will be done, thy will be done by Barney Elliott Warren
1. Thy will be done,
Thy will be done;
Lord, thou hast taught us all to say
Thy will be done.
Refrain: Thy will be done,
Thy will be done;
Lord, from my heart I truly say,
Thy will be done.
2. Thy will be done,
Thy will be done;
If this cup may not pass from me,
Thy will be done.
Refrain: Thy will be done,
Thy will be done;
Lord, from my heart I truly say,
Thy will be done.
3. Thy will be done,
Thy will be done;
I'll bear the cross, endure the loss,
Thy will be done.
Refrain: Thy will be done,
Thy will be done;
Lord, from my heart I truly say,
Thy will be done.
4. Thy will be done,
Thy will be done;
If I must suffer, Lord, for thee,
Thy will be done.
Refrain: Thy will be done,
Thy will be done;
Lord, from my heart I truly say,
Thy will be done.
5. Thy will be done,
Thy will be done;
Only bestow thy grace on me,
Thy will be done.
Refrain: Thy will be done,
Thy will be done;
Lord, from my heart I truly say,
Thy will be done.
Visit our WebsiteNews From Our Members
Wasn't that a great pot-luck lunch last Sunday? I didn't get in line until about half were already seated and enjoying their meal, but even then there was a great selection, including fruit all cut and ready to eat plus fruit salads that were delicious. You'll never go wrong at one of our pot-luck meals for there always seems to be plenty for everyone who shows up and I, for one, thank all who bring food. The women who prepare the table and service do a great job and then have to clean up afterwards. I wish them to have a great big “thank you” for this service to our church and to our members and guests.Last Sunday, as our choir sang Stainer's “God So Loved The World” I could not help but...
Thursday, March 15, 2018
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, 15 March 2018 by Bob Peterson
Wasn't that a great pot-luck lunch last Sunday? I didn't get in line until about half were already seated and enjoying their meal, but even then there was a great selection, including fruit all cut and ready to eat plus fruit salads that were delicious. You'll never go wrong at one of our pot-luck meals for there always seems to be plenty for everyone who shows up and I, for one, thank all who bring food. The women who prepare the table and service do a great job and then have to clean up afterwards. I wish them to have a great big "thank you" for this service to our church and to our members and guests.
Last Sunday, as our choir sang Stainer's "God So Loved The World" I could not help but remember the many times it has been sung in our sanctuary, all very beautifully. As Music Director Jim Raycroft said in his notes last week, it has become a standard of the world of church music for choirs of all sizes. What a wonderful performance our own choir gave it last week. Thanks to everyone involved.
It was especially nice to have visitors from out of state show up to help renew friendships as happened last week. Those of us who have had a long experience here at Redondo Beach First United Methodist Church always enjoy these special visits.
Click here for more of the Lay Looker
Coming at Church
Our Baja mission team for 2018 will host a taco lunch fundraiser on the Epworth Patio, after 10:30 worship!Palm Sunday is March 25!
Palm Sunday is a special day at church, and this is a great time to invite friends! Click the image to go to our Facebook Event, and use it to invite other people.
Gather for a photo with our donkey starting at 9:30am. At 10am, we will have our donkey lead the Palm Sunday parade into our sanctuary! 10:30 worship will continue the story, through the powerful story of Christ's passion.
Good Friday: Service of Darkness
Worship with us on Good Friday, March 30 at 7:30pm, as we remember and contemplate Jesus Christ's crucifixion.Our choir will sing Dale Wood's "Service of Darkness," which includes seven choral meditations on the last words of Jesus Christ. Interspersed with scripture readings of these words that Jesus spoke from the cross, the service will provide a prayerful and meditative space on this holy day.
All ages are welcome in worship; the nursery will be open for young children, too.
Celebrate Easter!Celebrate Resurrection with us on Sunday, April 1.
Sunrise Worship on Torrance Beach at 6:30am
Here on our campus:
Casual Worship in Epworth Lounge at 8:30am
Festive Worship (with Brass Ensemble!) in our sanctuary at 10:30am.
(Also: an Easter Egg Hunt for children at 9:45am!)
Spread the Word! Invite someone for Palm Sunday or Easter.
We want to help make it easy for you to invite friends and neighbors to worship. These next couple of weeks, our worship will be so very rich! It's a great time to take the time to invite others to be with us.
We made Facebook events and up-to-date Announcements on our website to make it easy to pass on all the details. We just need you to do the inviting!
This series is based on Adam Hamilton's book, "Half Truths:God Helps Those Who Help Themselves and Other Things the Bible Doesn't Say."Half-Truths: Sermon Series after Easter
They are simple phrases. They sound Christian—like something you might find in the Bible. We’ve all heard these words. Maybe we’ve said them. They capture some element of truth, yet they miss the point in important ways.
Join us after Easter for a sermon series that tackles some common Christian clichés that don't get it all right:
- Everything happens for a reason.
- Love the sinner, hate the sin.
- God helps those who help themselves.
- God won’t give you more than you can handle.
- God said it, I believe it, that settles it.
- This five-week sermon series begins April 8!
Each Sunday during Lent, we will have an interactive prayer station available in the narthex (at the back of the sanctuary). Before or after worship, we encourage you to stop there and share in a prayer. (The stations were designed for our Ash Wednesday Prayers and Ashes.)
Help Your Faith Flourish this LentWe are excited to have free tools to offer you, to help your faith grow this Spring. Starting on Sunday, you can pick up a packet with materials to use at home: a devotional based on scripture and poetry, and prayer coloring pagesthat use the Psalms.
The Devotional uses Scripture alongside poetry by Mary Oliver. Accessible reflection questions connect big, holy ideas to everyday life.
Small Groups to help you Grow
Our Grow Groups continue through Easter. These small groups will
give you a chance to connect with others as you go deeper in faith, connecting life and the scriptures. Groups meet at different times of day and of the week.
Thank you for filling Easter Eggs!Thanks to many generous hearts and helping hands we have given out all our empty eggs in
record time!
Please return filled eggs this week or next, look for a big blue box on the patio on Sunday or bring them any time during office hours.
Email Children's Ministry if you have any questions.
Email Children's Ministry if you have any questions.
Summer 2018: Mark Your Calendars!Vacation Bible School:
(age 3-8th grade) August 13-17
BeachFaith Kids Arts Camp:
(K-5th grade) July 30-August 3
Baja Mission Trip:
with Inalienable (youth & adults) July 7-14
Summer Camps:
at Lazy W Ranch & other sites
Baja Registration Is OpenYou might think of the Baja Mission as a youth mission trip, but it's more than that! Each year, adults (even a Senior Citizen or two!) go from our church. The trip is organized to make good use of people's skills, so consider going!
For more info, click here!
Early Registration: $450
Normal Registration: $495
Save the date for this year's Crop Walk onMay 20, 2018. It will take place at the South Coast Botanical Gardens again! The event is from 10am - 2pm.
More information about our team and how you can register to walk and/or donate will be coming soon!
CROP Walk info
Want to help out? Email Children's Ministries!
Week In the ArtsDon't miss out on our very special arts camp!
Children will spend the week learning songs, dancing, and making original art pieces- all culminating in an art show and recital at the end of the week.
Open to all K-6th Graders
$200.00 per camper
Scholarships Available
Click here for more info!
Summer Camp at Lazy W RanchSend a young person to camp, registration is open now!
The cost is $445 for traditional camps and $475 for adventure camp.
Financial assistance is available, get in touch with Risa for more details!
Adventure Camp (Grades 7-10) June 24-29, 2018
Little Canyoneers (Grades 1-3) July 1-4, 2018
Elementary Camp (Grades 3-6) July 8-13, 2018
Junior High Camp (Grades 6-9) July 15-20, 2018
Senior High Camp (Grades 9-Class of '18 Seniors) July 22-28, 2018
To register for camp or learn more about other Cal-Pac Camps, click here!
Announcements
Men's Breakfast: Our next breakfast is Monday, March 19, 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: Join us for our monthly quilting workshop Friday, April 13, 10am - noon in the choir room. There's something for everyone to do to help. Even if you haven't tried quilt-making before, this is a great way to begin. Know someone in need of prayer? Anyone can sponsor a free prayer quilt. The Quilt Request Form is online or in the church office.
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.
Book Club, March 20, 2018 at 7PM: Helen Stockwell has selected “Peace Like a River,” a best-selling novel by Leif Enger, who took the title from the lyrics of the hymn "It Is Well with My Soul.” It is the beautifully written story of a loving family living in wintry Minnesota, who together experience miracles, hardships and tragedy, and was a Book of the Year, when it was published in 2001.We meet in May Day Parlor. For more information, contact Ann Gallagher.
This Week: Children, Youth & Adults
Nursery (6 weeks+): The Nursery is open during both services, for ages 6 weeks to 5 yrs old. Located right off of the parking lot across from Epworth Lounge. Please know that children of any age are always welcome in worship. Any questions email the Nursery Coordinator: Adriana Hwang
Children's Ministry (age 3 - 3rd Grade): We'll start out upstairs in the Sunday School room, sign in as early at 10:20. We'll learn about Jesus' ride into Jerusalem, pray, play, and make a craft! Afterward, we'll join our families in worship for Holy Communion.
Church R Us (Grades 4 & 5): Start out in Worship with your family, then head to class with our youth director, Stephen Hale during "Passing of the Peace". You'll head back to church for communion!
Youth Ministry (6th-12th grade):
-Middle School Sunday School? YES!!!!
-Youth Group(2-4pm on Sunday)? Yes! We're continuing with Lent.
Young Adults (19-not very specific):
"Grow Groups" have started for Lent! There are many to choose from, Young Adults and young families are encouraged to join the Monday night group that meets at church, but are welcome at any of them. Click here for more info!
Adult Sunday School: Bible Study and Discussion in May Day Parlor. Sunday mornings from 9:30-10:15am. Led by Helen Stockwell. During Lent, the group will meet as a Lenten Grow Group. All are welcome.
Thursday Pastor's Bible Study:
We usually meet Thursday mornings from 11:00-noon, in May Day Parlor. Starting February 22, the group will meet as a Lenten Grow Group. All are welcome.
United Methodist News & Events
Our congregation is a part of the El Tordondo Mission Area, in the West District of the California-Pacific Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church.
First United Methodist Church of Redondo Beach
310-372-5696 fax
Ongoing Ministries
Free Meal on Wednesday NightsOffering food and friendship to those in need, every Wednesday night since 1992. More info here.
SHARED BREAD NEEDS DONATIONS OF:
Men’s jeans waist sizes 32- 38; Men’s new socks, white or grey only- all sizes; Men’s tennis shoes - especially sizes 9.5 to 11.5
Please bring them to church on Sunday, or to the office during the week.
DESSERTS FOR SHARED BREAD
Homemade treats are treasured by our guests – but purchased treats would be wonderful, as well. Please wrap desserts tightly and mark for Shared Bread. Deliver Sunday (when you come for church) through Wednesday to the church kitchen (or the office if kitchen is closed.) Wednesday deliveries
should be here by 4:00pm to help us plan our meal better. THANK YOU!
Easter Week is fast approaching, and there is a lot of music to be enjoyed during those 7 days. On Palm Sunday, we’ll be hearing from the choir (singing 2 anthems), our own Audrey Yoder will serenade us with Samuel Barber’s Crucifixion, and our good friend Chase Matthews will return to sing Gethsemane. Then, on Good Friday, the choir will join with Pastor Molly and our acolytes to present the Service of Darkness, an inspirational work by the late Dale Wood. The evening will focus around the Seven Last Words. A piece of music will be sung, the scripture will be read, the bell will be rung, and a candle will be extinguished. After the last candle is extinguished, the congregation leaves in silence. It’s very moving, and my wife Eileen will be with us to play the organ. Then, on Easter morning, we’ll celebrate the Resurrection with a party. We’ll have several brass players, including our own Bob Peterson who will be joined by members of the Los Angeles Philharmonic Orchestra and my wife Eileen. The anthem is a grandiose Mark Hayes piece that is reminiscent of the music from Ben Hur. Our overture is a medley of...
Thursday, March 15, 2018 - Music Notes
Music Director, Jim Raycroft, will share upcoming worship music
selections and a little bit of history, too.
Jim Raycroft
Thursday, 15 March 2018 by Jim Raycroft
Easter Week is fast approaching, and there is a lot of music to be enjoyed during those 7 days. On Palm Sunday, we'll be hearing from the choir (singing 2 anthems), our own Audrey Yoder will serenade us with Samuel Barber's Crucifixion, and our good friend Chase Matthews will return to sing Gethsemane. Then, on Good Friday, the choir will join with Pastor Molly and our acolytes to present the Service of Darkness, an inspirational work by the late Dale Wood. The evening will focus around the Seven Last Words. A piece of music will be sung, the scripture will be read, the bell will be rung, and a candle will be extinguished. After the last candle is extinguished, the congregation leaves in silence. It's very moving, and my wife Eileen will be with us to play the organ. Then, on Easter morning, we'll celebrate the Resurrection with a party. We'll have several brass players, including our own Bob Peterson who will be joined by members of the Los Angeles Philharmonic Orchestra and my wife Eileen. The anthem is a grandiose Mark Hayes piece that is reminiscent of the music from Ben Hur. Our overture is a medley of the Fanfare For The Common Man by Aaron Copeland and the John Williams Olympic Fanfare, which will be accompanied by a video/slide show created by our resident art expert, Pastor Molly. And, as usual, we'll close with a gang-sing of the Hallelujah Chorus. It's always a wonderful morning, and we hope you'll be there, and tell all your friends to be there or be square. Just as a reminder, if you are able and willing to help underwrite our Easter Week music, please send in your contribution labeled "Easter Music" and it will find its way home.
Francesca Battistelli is a Christian recording artist who was born in New York in 1985 and released her first independent album in 2004 titled Just A Breath. She released her first studio album under the Fervent label in 2008 titled My Paper Heart. Her single Holy Spirit, written by Bryan and Katie Torwalt, was released in 2014 as part of her 3rd studio album, If We're Honest, and it went on to win a Grammy in 2016 for Best Contemporary Christian Music Performance/Song.
Craig Courtney is one of the dominant forces in the world of church anthems. He is currently the Executive Music Editor for Beckenhorst Press in Columbus, Ohio, and was the protégé of the founder, the legendary John Ness Beck. What his resume doesn't tell you is how he started composing (I got this information one day over coffee with him). He was a staff piano teacher at the famous Mozarteum in Salzburg, Austria. Sitting in his cubicle, day after day, waiting for piano students to arrive (or not), he began to improvise and noodle. This brought about his first big publication, Thy Will Be Done, our anthem for this week, and a powerful piece of music. Thy Will Be Done has gone on to be a standard in church choir repertoire, and the best-selling anthem in the history of Beckenhorst Press.
Sidewalk Prophets is a Christian rock band from Nashville. The band was formed by lead singer Dave Frey and rhythm guitarist Ben McDonald when the two were attending Indiana's Andersen University. They released a self-titled independent album in 2003, and released their first studio album with Word Records titled These Simple Truths, which nominated for a Dove Award for Pop/Contemporary Album of the Year. That same year they won New Artist of the Year, and the single The Words I Would Say, released on These Simple Truths, peaked at #3. The song Help Me Find It was released with the album Live Like That in 2012Click here to read more Music Notes!
Looking for a Way to Volunteer? The Welcome Team is looking for volunteers who can help about once a month between the two services and/or immediately after the 10:30 service. Go to our "Want to Help" page to learn more about this awesome ministry, as well as several other current ways you can lend a hand in ministry.
Calling All Gardeners!Do you have a couple hours once or twice a month to help maintain our beautiful church gardens? Tasks would include pruning, planting, weeding and watering. Whatever you can help with, we'd love to have you join our team! Duties could change seasonally. Sign up through the church office, or by talking with Jody Wilkinson.
4th-8th Graders needed to Acolyte!Acolytes are needed for 10:30 worship each week. If you've been trained, you can sign up via our "sign up genius" (click here!)
If you are interested in being trained, email children's ministries!
Our UMW is back to their regular meeting times.Circle Meeting Time
- Naomi Circle 2nd Tuesday @ 10:00am
- Hannah Circle 2nd Tuesday @ 7:00pm
- Mary Circle 4th Monday @ 7:00pm
United Methodist Women’s Reading Program: There are many titles to choose from with new ones added every year! Books are available in the UMW library located in May Day Parlor. 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
Campus WiFi network is: First UMC Guests; Password is: openhearts
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.
Sunday Worship Liturgist Sign Up
Campus WiFi network is: First UMC Guests; Password is: openhearts
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.
Connect with us
First United Methodist Church
243 South Broadway
Redondo Beach, California 90277 United States
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