october 2016 sentinel - wordpress.com · 10-10-2016 · book available online, and at the sunday...

Growing up in the First UMC of Phoenix, Arizona, the senior minister spoke frequently about our responsibility as citizens as well as of Christian disciples. I remember that the church calendar in the Sunday Order of Worship always listed Election Day when it came around. Dr. Cain was convinced that we were to be informed and to take part in the practice of being a democracy by voting.

I’d say the same. It’s also one of the reasons we here at Santa Monica First UMC make our facilities available as a polling place. I hope there will be long lines of voters here on Election Day 2016. I’d also

hope you are making every effort to be informed about the races and initiatives that are before us.

I encourage you to vote in light of your faith commitments. Our Book Study book for October—Public Faith in Action: How to Think Carefully, Engage Wisely, and Vote with Integrity—offers helpful, non-partisan reflection. It is designed to assist Christian voters in wise reflection to shape political and ethical judgments in light of our faith. It also encourages legitimate and lively debate over how to live out our core values as disciples.

Copies are available at the Hospitality Table. You might want to join the Book Study on October 30 for a robust discussion and soulful discernment. No doubt, we’ll be inking in differing black dots on November 8. What’s critical is that we’ve engaged our hearts, minds, and souls in prayerful preparation.

FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH of SANTA MONICA

SENT INELvol. cxli, no. 9 October 2016

Senior Minister

HORIZONS On the Website

Church Office Hours: Tues - Fri, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.Chapel Open for Prayer: Mon - Fri, 8:30 a.m. - 4 p.m.

FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCHof SANTA MONICA1008 Eleventh Street

Santa Monica, CA 90403www.santamonicaumc.org

310.393.8258email: [email protected]

October 2 - World Communion SundayHomily by Rev. Robert English

DISCIPLE - Embrace the World

October 9 - Laity SundayFeaturing reflections on the life of a disciple from

Mira Pak, Sam Johnson, and Bianca DoriaDISCIPLE - Make A Difference

October 16 - 22nd Sunday in KingdomtideSermon by Rev. Patricia Farris

DISCIPLE - Don’t Judge

Children’s Sabbath is a day when the children of First UMC lead the rest of the church family in worship. The children put into action the teachings and explorations from the year’s Sunday School curriculum. Visit the website to learn more on the upcoming Children’s Sabbath.

https://santamonicaumc.org/childrens-sabbath

SUNDAYS IN OCTOBER

WORSHIP

SANCTUARY WORSHIP

SUNDAYS 10 a.m.simple church

SUNDAYS 5 p.m.Messy Church

SATURDAYS 4 p.m.Family Worship 2nd Sat. of the month

Stewardship 2017The Annual Giving Stewardship Campaign invites us each and all to prayerfully consider our financial pledge to support the mission and ministries of First UMC. Each of us who feels a sense of belonging in the fellowship that is First UMC is asked to do our part to support its life, ministries and mission. First UMC relies on the financial contributions of its members and friends to support our work—the mission and ministry that we offer, day in and day out, that makes all the difference in our lives and touches the lives of so many beyond these walls.

WE are First UMC and, like all faith communities, all that we do is in response to the benefits God pours out upon us. WE each need to do our part to undergird the work of the church. Make a pledge. Stretch what you think you can do. Step out in faith. Learn more at www.santamonicaumc.org or call the church office at 310-393-8258. Pledge cards will be mailed in October. Fill yours in and bring it to worship on Consecration Sunday November 13.

October 23 - Children’s Sabbath Reception of 4th Grade Bibles

Sermon by First UMC Children DISCIPLE - Take Faith Home

October 30 - 24th Sunday in KingdomtideFaith in Action SundaySermon by Rev. Robert English

DISCIPLE - Take Faith Public

Beautiful music by the Chancel Choir. Communion on 1st Sundays

Love God / Love Neighbor / Love SelfCommunion weekly

October CalendarSaturday, October 1 9:30 a.m. Blessing of the Animals, CourtyardSunday, October 2 - World Communion Sunday11 a.m. Youth Service Project Report Back/Luncheon, Simkins Hall5 p.m. simple church, Chapel6:30 p.m. Financial Peace University (class 3), Room 300 *note room changeFriday, October 77 p.m. Shareringer Monthly Dinner, Fireside RoomSunday, October 9 - Laity Sunday 5 p.m. simple church, Chapel6:30 p.m. Financial Peace University (class 4), Fireside RoomSaturday, October 15 9:30 a.m. Prayer Quilt Workparty, Room 3004 p.m. Messy Church, Chapel/Simkins HallSaturday, October 16 11 a.m. Free Blood Pressure Screenings, Simkins Hall11:15 a.m. Sunday School Movie & Lunch, Room 300/Youth Lounge2:30 p.m. Walk the Labyrinth, Simkins Hall5 p.m. simple church, Chapel6:30 p.m. Financial Peace University (class 5), Fireside RoomWednesday, October 19 9 a.m. Health Ministry Council Flu Shot Clinic, Simkins HallSaturday, October 22 10 a.m. Sacred Yoga, Room 300 *note room changeSunday, October 23 - Children’s Sabbath 11 a.m. Third World Handarts, Simkins Hall5 p.m. simple church, Chapel6:30 p.m. Financial Peace University (class 6), Fireside RoomThursday, October 27 5 p.m. Family Place Community Meal, OffsiteFriday, October 28 6 p.m. Youth Ministry Halloween Overnighter, Youth LoungeSunday, October 30 - Faith in Action 11:30 a.m. Rev. Farris Bookstudy/Potluck, Fireside Room5 p.m. simple church, Chapel6:30 p.m. Financial Peace University (class 7), Fireside Room WEEKLY or BIMONTHLY AT FIRST UMC:Mondays: Church Office Closed9 a.m. Intercessory Prayer Group (2nd & 4th Mondays) Offsite Tuesdays: 7 a.m. Men’s Breakfast Bible Study, Fireside RoomWednesdays: 9 a.m. UMW Workparty/Luncheon, WorkroomThursdays: 7 p.m. Cross(+)Brew, Off-Site (1st & 3rd Sundays)7:30 p.m. Chancel Choir Rehearsals, Choir Room COMMITTEE MEETINGSSunday, October 9: 11a.m. Missions Council Meeting, Room 208Tuesday, October 11: 6:30 p.m. Church Council Meeting, CR-AThursday, October 13: 6 p.m. Staff-Parish Relations Meeting, CRTuesday, October 25: 6 p.m. Finance Committee Meeting, CR-A SUNDAYS AT A GLANCE9 a.m. Lectionary Scripture Discussion, Fireside Room 9 a.m. Partnership with God Sunday School, Room 101 9 a.m. Nursery Care, Room 204 9:30 a.m. Chancel Choir Warmup, Choir Room10 a.m. Worship, Sanctuary 10:10 a.m. Sunday School, Education Bldg. 11:00 a.m. Fellowship, Simkins Hall in The Shelby Center3 p.m. Amadeus Handbell Rehearsal, CHR5 p.m. simple church, Chapel5:30 p.m. United Methodist Youth Fellowship, Youth Lounge

Messy ChurchMessy Church is a monthly worship where we learn about God’s love through crafts, activities, story and a shared meal. Children, families, and adults of all ages are welcome to this worship experience. We begin in Simkins Hall for a short introduction to the theme and activities (this month’s theme: Courage - David & Goliath.) Then, we gather in the Chapel for music and worship. Lastly, we enjoy a meal together back in Simkins Hall. Invite your friends and family and be ready to get messy!

Saturday October 15: 4 - 6 p.m. Chapel and Simkins Hall

Family Place Community Mealsimple church hosts a monthly potluck for Family Place. A program of Upward Bound House, Family Place provides transitional housing for families with minor children in crisis. The potluck feeds about 30-40 adults & children. We serve buffet style and eat as one big family! Please share and invite your friends to this wonderful community gathering. Contact: [email protected] to participate.

Thursday October 27: 5 - 7 p.m. at Family Place (1020 12th St., SM)

Flower Orders: Available dates at press time: October 16, 23. Please contact the church office to order flowers for one of these dates.

Blessing of the AnimalsAll pets large and small and in-between are welcome to the 10th Annual Blessing of the Animals. Come at 9:30 a.m. for refreshments and children’s activities. Blessings begin at 10 a.m. Bring pet food/supply donations for the animal shelter. Pick up a pet tag and be sure to visit the photo booth.

Saturday October 1: 9:30 a.m. in the Courtyard

10th Anniversary!

Youth Service Project Team Report-Back Twelve youth and four adults traveled to Smith River, CA this summer to repair homes of those in need. First UMC will host a YSP Report Back & Lunch after worship. All are welcome! And be sure to take a look in the Fireside Room for YSP: A Look Back, a pictoral view of YSP trips throughout the years.

Sunday October 2: 11 a.m. Simkins Hall.

Sunday School Presents: Pizza and a Movie

All Sunday school children are invited to stay after worship and Sunday school for pizza and a viewing of The Prince of Egypt as we prepare for Children’s Sabbath. We will have craft activities and discuss topics in the movie that relate

to our Sunday school lessons and the worship service we are preparing to lead the following week.

Sunday October 16: 11:15 a.m. - 1:15 p.m. Room 300/Youth Lounge

Health Ministry Council’s Flu ClinicFirst UMC has the privilege of hosting one of the first flu vaccination clinics this season to be provided by the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health. This gives us the opportunity to both keep ourselves healthy and help keep our community healthy. So, mark your calendar, tell your friends and neighbors, and join us in Simkins Hall to get your free flu vaccine! No appointments necessary.

Wednesday October 19: 9 - 11:30 a.m. Simkins Hall

October Book-of-the-Month Study & Potluck Public Faith in Action: How to Think Carefully, Engage Wisely, and Vote with Integrity by Miroslav Volf and Ryan McAnnalkly-Linz

As election day approaches, decisions are being made by voters that will significantly impact the future of our state and nation. This book does not take a partisan point of view, but is designed to assist Christian voters in wise reflection to shape political and ethical judgments in light of our faith. It also encourages legitmate and lively debate over how to live out our core values. Join in for a robust discussion and soulful discernment in this Loving God with Our Minds book series. Book available online, and at the Sunday Hospitality Table. Bring a dish to share.

Sunday October 30: 11:30 a.m., Fireside Room

White Ribbon MemorialAs we approach All Saints Day, First UMC will offer a new way to remember those who have passed with the White Ribbon Memorial. On the Sundays of October 23, 30, and November 6, look for a table set up on the north wall of the sanctuary near the prayer quilts. There, before or after service, you may write the names of loved ones on a white ribbon (as many as you like or one name per ribbon), say a prayer, and tie it

to the string or place it in the bowl on the table. You may also come to the Hospitality Table or the church office to write a name on a ribbon. For our All Saints Day service on November 6, all ribbons will be tied to the string and hung on the north wall of the sanctuary for the worship service.

Third World HandartsMissions Council and First UMC welcomes back Third World Handarts, a non-profit organization that was founded in Anaheim in 1975 to serve the economic needs of the destitute people in the United States, and in developing nations worldwide. Their principal mission is to support the self-employment of thousands of artisans by marketing the beautiful and useful items they craft as a means of supporting themselves and their families. All are welcome to come and shop these wonderful artisan crafts in Simkins Hall before and after worship.

Sunday October 23: 9 a.m. - 12 p.m., Simkins Hall

Looking ForwardNOVEMBER

4 & 5 – C.A.S.T. 1st - 5th graders perform Rumpelstiltskin6 – All Saints Day11 & 12 – United Methodist Women Holiday Boutique12 – Messy Church13 – First UMC Charge Conference 13 – Consecration Sunday13 – Cakes for a Cause Sale19 – Sacred Yoga23 – UMYF Crafts with Family Place/Community Meal27 – Rev. Farris Book Study/Potluck

DECEMBER HIGHLIGHTS

2 & 3 – C.A.S.T. 5th -12th graders perform Haphazardly Ever After 4 – First UMC Music Concert4, 11, 18 – Alternative Christmas10 – Sacred Yoga10 – Messy Church18 – Lessons and Carols24 – Christmas Eve Services Family Service 4 p.m./Candlelight Service 11 p.m.25 – Family Sunday: children remain in worship

Welcome, Anne Premer!We are incredibly excited to welcome First UMC member Anne Premer, who will be working as our new Congregation Care Visitor. As an extension of pastoral care, Anne will work primarily with seniors, to assess needs and connect them with resources in the congregation and community. This is an adaptation of the visitation ministry Mary Garbesi used

to direct and carries forward some of the work of the health ministry nurse.

The role of the Congregation Care visitor extends the love and compassion of God on behalf of the congregation by providing friendly, loving phone calls or visits to the home, hospital, or care facility to offer support to parishioners and family members, as well as to care-givers. Extending the congregation’s care,

love, encouragement, and a listening ear, the Care Visitor may also be able to connect a parishioner or family member with resources at the church and in the community to assist with various needs and provide support.

In preparation for this job, Anne has been taking a certified training course at WISE & Healthy Aging in Santa Monica. The course is taught by Dr. Miriam Caiden who is the Director of Community Aging Resources and Education.

Anne is originally from New York, and grew up in Long Island. She holds a BA in Psychology from the University of Delaware (coincidentally she was a student there while Rev. Patricia Farris served as the school Chaplain!) Her past work experience includes print shop owner and manager, precision car driver, and background actor. We know that Anne’s natural warmth and compassion make her the right person for this position.

CondolencesWe extend our deepest sympathies to the families and friends of these departed loved ones: • First UMC member Diane Barbara Minasian, who died August 31. A memorial was held Thursday, September 28 in the Chapel. • First UMC Member Larry Gordon Skuce, who died recently.

Births• Colby Mae Williams, born to parents Kat and Greg Williams, and granddaughter of First UMC members Gale and Dorothy, on September 23.

Congratulations• to First UMC member Caprice Walker, who received The Bravo! Award from the Westside Ballet of Santa Monica on September 22, held at the Women’s Club in Santa Monica. Caprice is one of the three original founders of the Westside Ballet, and has taught the kids there for over 30 years!

FIRST UMCCOMMUNITY

Pepperdine students with Preschool Director Batsheva Spector

Thank You!• to Adam Guerrero for all of his work in researching, compiling, and hanging the photographs that make up the photo exhibit YSP: A Look Back, currently in the Fireside Room.

• to the Step Forward Day group of Pepperdine volunteer students that came to clean up Morr’s Hall in the First Preschool playground September 10. The group has been coming for 10+ years, and are always a pleasure to work with.

• The Westside Church Coalition wishes to thank all of the First UMC volunteers that helped make the Habitat for Humanity Carnival & Silent Auction a success! Linda Avdul and Jill Obery-Dodd were the Event Chairs, and volunteers included Don Avdul, Joyce & David Landsverk, Martha Ross, Margaret Gazey, John Youngman, Cindy McQuade, Carmen Herrera, Jane Spiegel, Dorothy Williams, Carol Reich, Dara l’Anson, Kira Bretsky, Meg Smith, Sara Rabinowitz, Annika Dodd, and Owen Ing. The event raised close to 8k towards the Patience House build in Culver City. More Habitat updates coming soon!

United Methodist Women invite the entire First UMC community to participate in the annual Holiday Boutique which benefits mission projects and is UMW’s principle fundraiser.

The annual Casserole Corner is always a delicious hit! Last year we sold over 30 casseroles! If you would like to contribute a casserole this year, you may go to the Sunday Hospitality Table to see Carol Reich through the month of October and first Sunday in November. She will provide you with a casserole pan, instructions, and two recipe forms to be attached to the completed casserole.

The UMW will be making their popular peanut brittle candy Saturdays October 15, 22, 29, from 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. To participate Call Joy Williams: 310-476-9480.

To volunteer, make baked goods, donate new or gently used holiday items, jewelry, and attic treasures, or for more information, call Betty Storm: 310-452-0437.

This project cannot be successful without YOU!

United Methodist Women Need Your Help!

First UMC Community Pop-Up Library!First UMC is proud to announce the opening of the Community Pop-Up Library. The library was designed and handmade by First UMC member Robert Hedges. We thank Bob for his committment to this year-long process, and his craftsmanship that is apparent in the beauty of the structure. Bob says constructing the library “was an interesting project, and another type of ministry offered by the church. I hope the library benefits the local community for years to come.”

Others were involved in the making of the library as well: the architectural concept was developed by First UMC member Todd Erlandson, and donations of time and materials were thoughtfully contributed by Marisol Chinchilla, Anson Nordby, Phil Flanders, David Penson, Dane Rold and Eric & Claudia Warren.

We give thanks for the beauty of knowledge and ability to share with one another inspirational reading. We encourage you to take a book, donate a book - or share a moment with a friend. Should you have donations that won’t fit in the space, please come visit the church office Tuesdays through Friday. And we are always here on Sundays.

Don Advul, Diana Stumpf and Jill Obery-Dodd enjoying the Fair, while Rev. Keri Olsen

shows off her hammering skills.

The lady of the night, Caprice Walker, along with

Westside teachers and alumni dancers.

A blessing of the library was held on September 11 by Rev. Patricia Farris and Rev. Robert English.

Assembly of the library with Bob Hedges and Anson Nordby.

And it’s complete!With a little help from Phil Flanders and David Penson.

From a postcard dated 1968 (courtesy of Carprice Walker) the brick base originally served as the main church signage.

UMW Boutique Friday Preview: November 11, 5 p.m.Simkins Hall ($5 admission fee includes soup and bread)Saturday November 12: 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. (no charge)

Family Place Community Mealsimple church hosts a monthly potluck for Family Place. A program of Upward Bound House, Family Place provides transitional housing for families with minor children in crisis. The potluck feeds about 30-40 adults & children. We serve buffet style and eat as one big family! Please share and invite your friends to this wonderful community gathering. Contact: [email protected] to participate.

Thursday October 27: 5 - 7 p.m. at Family Place (1020 12th St., SM)

Sunday School Presents: Pizza and a Movie

All Sunday school children are invited to stay after worship and Sunday school for pizza and a viewing of The Prince of Egypt as we prepare for Children’s Sabbath. We will have craft activities and discuss topics in the movie that relate

to our Sunday school lessons and the worship service we are preparing to lead the following week.

Sunday October 16: 11:15 a.m. - 1:15 p.m. Room 300/Youth Lounge

Health Ministry Council’s Flu ClinicFirst UMC has the privilege of hosting one of the first flu vaccination clinics this season to be provided by the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health. This gives us the opportunity to both keep ourselves healthy and help keep our community healthy. So, mark your calendar, tell your friends and neighbors, and join us in Simkins Hall to get your free flu vaccine! No appointments necessary.

Wednesday October 19: 9 - 11:30 a.m. Simkins Hall

October Book-of-the-Month Study & Potluck Public Faith in Action: How to Think Carefully, Engage Wisely, and Vote with Integrity by Miroslav Volf and Ryan McAnnalkly-Linz

As election day approaches, decisions are being made by voters that will significantly impact the future of our state and nation. This book does not take a partisan point of view, but is designed to assist Christian voters in wise reflection to shape political and ethical judgments in light of our faith. It also encourages legitmate and lively debate over how to live out our core values. Join in for a robust discussion and soulful discernment in this Loving God with Our Minds book series. Book available online, and at the Sunday Hospitality Table. Bring a dish to share.

Sunday October 30: 11:30 a.m., Fireside Room

White Ribbon MemorialAs we approach All Saints Day, First UMC will offer a new way to remember those who have passed with the White Ribbon Memorial. On the Sundays of October 23, 30, and November 6, look for a table set up on the north wall of the sanctuary near the prayer quilts. There, before or after service, you may write the names of loved ones on a white ribbon (as many as you like or one name per ribbon), say a prayer, and tie it

to the string or place it in the bowl on the table. You may also come to the Hospitality Table or the church office to write a name on a ribbon. For our All Saints Day service on November 6, all ribbons will be tied to the string and hung on the north wall of the sanctuary for the worship service.

Third World HandartsMissions Council and First UMC welcomes back Third World Handarts, a non-profit organization that was founded in Anaheim in 1975 to serve the economic needs of the destitute people in the United States, and in developing nations worldwide. Their principal mission is to support the self-employment of thousands of artisans by marketing the beautiful and useful items they craft as a means of supporting themselves and their families. All are welcome to come and shop these wonderful artisan crafts in Simkins Hall before and after worship.

Sunday October 23: 9 a.m. - 12 p.m., Simkins Hall

Looking ForwardNOVEMBER

4 & 5 – C.A.S.T. 1st - 5th graders perform Rumpelstiltskin6 – All Saints Day11 & 12 – United Methodist Women Holiday Boutique12 – Messy Church13 – First UMC Charge Conference 13 – Consecration Sunday13 – Cakes for a Cause Sale19 – Sacred Yoga23 – UMYF Crafts with Family Place/Community Meal27 – Rev. Farris Book Study/Potluck

DECEMBER HIGHLIGHTS

2 & 3 – C.A.S.T. 5th -12th graders perform Haphazardly Ever After 4 – First UMC Music Concert4, 11, 18 – Alternative Christmas10 – Sacred Yoga10 – Messy Church18 – Lessons and Carols24 – Christmas Eve Services Family Service 4 p.m./Candlelight Service 11 p.m.25 – Family Sunday: children remain in worship

Welcome, Anne Premer!We are incredibly excited to welcome First UMC member Anne Premer, who will be working as our new Congregation Care Visitor. As an extension of pastoral care, Anne will work primarily with seniors, to assess needs and connect them with resources in the congregation and community. This is an adaptation of the visitation ministry Mary Garbesi used

to direct and carries forward some of the work of the health ministry nurse.

The role of the Congregation Care visitor extends the love and compassion of God on behalf of the congregation by providing friendly, loving phone calls or visits to the home, hospital, or care facility to offer support to parishioners and family members, as well as to care-givers. Extending the congregation’s care,

love, encouragement, and a listening ear, the Care Visitor may also be able to connect a parishioner or family member with resources at the church and in the community to assist with various needs and provide support.

In preparation for this job, Anne has been taking a certified training course at WISE & Healthy Aging in Santa Monica. The course is taught by Dr. Miriam Caiden who is the Director of Community Aging Resources and Education.

Anne is originally from New York, and grew up on Long Island. She holds a BA in Psychology from the University of Delaware (coincidentally she was a student there while Rev. Patricia Farris served as the school Chaplain!) Anne’s work experience includes working in the entertainment industry with her late husband, Dallas, for whom she was his caregiver for 2 years. For the last four years she has been actively involved in the Cancer Support Community (formerly the Wellness Community) in caregiver support and education. We know that Anne’s natural warmth and compassion make her the right person for this position. Welcome Anne!

CondolencesWe extend our deepest sympathies to the families and friends of these departed loved ones: • First UMC member Diane Barbara Minasian, who died August 31. A memorial was held Thursday, September 28 in the Chapel. • First UMC Member Larry Gordon Skuce, who died recently.

Births• Colby Mae Williams, born to parents Kat and Greg Williams, and granddaughter of First UMC members Gale and Dorothy, on September 23.

Congratulations• to First UMC member Caprice Walker, who received The Bravo! Award from the Westside Ballet of Santa Monica on September 22, held at the Women’s Club in Santa Monica. Caprice is one of the three original founders of the Westside Ballet, and has taught the kids there for over 30 years!

FIRST UMCCOMMUNITY

Pepperdine students with Preschool Director Batsheva Spector

Thank You!• to Adam Guerrero for all of his work in researching, compiling, and hanging the photographs that make up the photo exhibit YSP: A Look Back, currently in the Fireside Room.

• to the Step Forward Day group of Pepperdine volunteer students that came to clean up Morr’s Hall in the First Preschool playground September 10. The group has been coming for 10+ years, and are always a pleasure to work with.

• The Westside Church Coalition wishes to thank all of the First UMC volunteers that helped make the Habitat for Humanity Carnival & Silent Auction a success! Linda Avdul and Jill Obery-Dodd were the Event Chairs, and volunteers included Don Avdul, Joyce & David Landsverk, Martha Ross, Margaret Gazey, John Youngman, Cindy McQuade, Carmen Herrera, Jane Spiegel, Dorothy Williams, Carol Reich, Dara l’Anson, Kira Bretsky, Meg Smith, Sara Rabinowitz, Annika Dodd, and Owen Ing. The event raised close to 8k towards the Patience House build in Culver City. More Habitat updates coming soon!

Don Avdul, Diana Stumpf and Jill Obery-Dodd enjoying the Fair, while Rev. Keri Olsen

shows off her hammering skills.

The lady of the night, Caprice Walker, along with

Westside teachers and alumni dancers.

Our Sanctuary: Symbols of Hopeby Ron Theile“As a member of this congregation and of the Chancel Choir, I often find myself gazing upon our beautiful sanctuary. There are times I look out from the choir loft to witness those who are worshipping doing the same. It could be while we are preparing for worship, praying, listening to scripture or being moved by the music of worship.

This series will help to guide us as we look at, and think about, the many sights and symbols that surround us as we worship. They are all symbols of hope, so that we will all be inspired to be the hope.” - Ron Theile

Part 8: This month’s installment involves three windows that are located on the north wall in the stairwell that leads to the balcony. These windows are entitled “Faith, Hope and Love.” These windows were provided by, in order, Mr. and Mrs. Burt, Roy and Edith Howland, and members of the United Methodist Women.

The title of these windows comes from 1 Corinthians, Chapter 13, verse 13. “And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.”

On the window entitled “Faith,” the symbols include the guiding star, an anchor on a shield, and water. The guiding star represents the faith of those who followed the star to the birth of Jesus. The anchor represents our faith in Jesus Christ as our anchor as we go through life’s challenges. Water is a symbol of life as well as meaning cleansing, or purification, and is of particular importance in the Old Testament as well as the New Testament.

The next window, entitled “Hope,” includes seagulls, a lighthouse, water, and a cross with the letters IHC on a

shield of faith. Three of these symbols (Seagulls or birds, lighthouse, water), taken together, provide for the message of this stained glass. Birds throughout the Bible provides a symbol of God’s protection and care. The lighthouse is our guide in those dark times that sometimes we must face. The water is an indication of God’s forgiveness and therefore our cleansing through Him. The center of the window are the letters IHC which is a variant of “Christograms” or monograms of Christ. It is through Jesus Christ who, threw his promise of eternal life, we live in hope for a brighter future.

The final window, “Love,” displays symbols of a heart mounted on a cross and shield of faith, the prodigal son and his father (according to historical notes) and a wild rose (confirmed by our own Master Florist, Mike Eskridge). The heart mounted on a cross has as many meanings as there are believers. What struck me first, when I looked at this image, was that the Heart Cross represents and reminds us of the love of Jesus. The

September Happenings at First UMC

Continuing To Make a Difference!by Rev. Larry YoungFor 16 years First UMC has been supporting the Children, Youth and Family Collaborative, an outreach to youth in foster care so ably directed by our Covenant Missionary, Lydia Templeton. Now operating in 9 school districts in the L.A. metropolitan area, CYFC provides an after school academic enrichment and support program enabling foster care youth to succeed academically and build a plan for their post emancipation futures. Currently 91% of the youth in this program are graduating from high school; and over 80% are getting accepted into post secondary educational opportunities! We can take pride in helping to make this change a reality in the lives of so many youth.

Owing to recent cuts in government funding, our support is all the more needed. In addition to the support provided by the church, individual contributions will help keep CYFC alive and healthy. I am a member of the CYFC board and can provide further information. You can also check out the CYFC website at cyfcla.org.

October Faith in Actionby Tricia LindleyFaith is more than a belief, it is an action. On every 5th Sunday of the month, the youth and children of First UMC put their Faith in Action, by working together during Sunday School to perform a gracious act of service. For our project on October 30, children will learn about our church’s “welcome baby” ministry of hospitality and love to families with new children. From there, we will learn about the work of UMCOR (United Methodist Committee on Relief) and their “welcome baby” birthing kits to refugee women who will give birth. We will put the kits together as an act of love and hospitality towards our neighbors and families around the world. The kits will be sent to refugee communities to provide supplies they would otherwise not have. How can you help? Make a donation! This will help us to purchase supplies that the children will put together next week. Donation buckets will be in the Narthex and Simkins Hall, Sunday October 23 before and after worship.

Fall Kick-Off!

Children’s Church with Janet Searfoss Olivia Pike Baptism Welcome New Members: Raphael Souza Rosalen and Michael Geczi. (Not pictured: Phillip Sundin)

Preschool CornerOCTOBER PRESCHOOL EVENTS:October 4/5/6 – Picture Days (make-up October 14)October 31 – Halloween Parade, 9-10 a.m.October 31 - November 6 – Preschool Book Fair

Monthly Value: October - Kindness

prodigal son and father reminds me that, no matter how far we might stray, that Jesus and our Heavenly Father has the same love for us no matter what the circumstance. Finally, the Wild Rose is the flower of love.

These three windows stand together, I believe, because one is nothing without the other. Faith, Hope and Love remain the guardians of our faith as people of God.

These are symbols of hope, so that we can be the hope.

The Preschool Pizza and Popsicle Party!

Growing up in the First UMC of Phoenix, Arizona, the senior minister spoke frequently about our responsibility as citizens as well as of Christian disciples. I remember that the church calendar in the Sunday Order of Worship always listed Election Day when it came around. Dr. Cain was convinced that we were to be informed and to take part in the practice of being a democracy by voting.

I’d say the same. It’s also one of the reasons we here at Santa Monica First UMC make our facilities available as a polling place. I hope there will be long lines of voters here on Election Day 2016. I’d also

hope you are making every effort to be informed about the races and initiatives that are before us.

I encourage you to vote in light of your faith commitments. Our Book Study book for October—Public Faith in Action: How to Think Carefully, Engage Wisely, and Vote with Integrity—offers helpful, non-partisan reflection. It is designed to assist Christian voters in wise reflection to shape political and ethical judgments in light of our faith. It also encourages legitimate and lively debate over how to live out our core values as disciples.

Copies are available at the Hospitality Table. You might want to join the Book Study on October 30 for a robust discussion and soulful discernment. No doubt, we’ll be inking in differing black dots on November 8. What’s critical is that we’ve engaged our hearts, minds, and souls in prayerful preparation.

FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH of SANTA MONICA

SENT INELvol. cxli, no. 9 October 2016

Senior Minister

HORIZONS On the Website

Church Office Hours: Tues - Fri, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.Chapel Open for Prayer: Mon - Fri, 8:30 a.m. - 4 p.m.

FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCHof SANTA MONICA1008 Eleventh Street

Santa Monica, CA 90403www.santamonicaumc.org

310.393.8258email: [email protected]

October 2 - World Communion SundayHomily by Rev. Robert English

DISCIPLE - Embrace the World

October 9 - Laity SundayFeaturing reflections on the life of a disciple from

Mira Pak, Sam Johnson, and Bianca DoriaDISCIPLE - Make A Difference

October 16 - 22nd Sunday in KingdomtideSermon by Rev. Patricia Farris

DISCIPLE - Don’t Judge

Children’s Sabbath is a day when the children of First UMC lead the rest of the church family in worship. The children put into action the teachings and explorations from the year’s Sunday School curriculum. Visit the website to learn more on the upcoming Children’s Sabbath.

https://santamonicaumc.org/childrens-sabbath

SUNDAYS IN OCTOBER

WORSHIP

SANCTUARY WORSHIP

SUNDAYS 10 a.m.simple church

SUNDAYS 5 p.m.Messy Church

SATURDAYS 4 p.m.Family Worship 2nd Sat. of the month

Stewardship 2017The Annual Giving Stewardship Campaign invites us each and all to prayerfully consider our financial pledge to support the mission and ministries of First UMC. Each of us who feels a sense of belonging in the fellowship that is First UMC is asked to do our part to support its life, ministries and mission. First UMC relies on the financial contributions of its members and friends to support our work—the mission and ministry that we offer, day in and day out, that makes all the difference in our lives and touches the lives of so many beyond these walls.

WE are First UMC and, like all faith communities, all that we do is in response to the benefits God pours out upon us. WE each need to do our part to undergird the work of the church. Make a pledge. Stretch what you think you can do. Step out in faith. Learn more at www.santamonicaumc.org or call the church office at 310-393-8258. Pledge cards will be mailed in October. Fill yours in and bring it to worship on Consecration Sunday November 13.

October 23 - Children’s Sabbath Reception of 4th Grade Bibles

Sermon by First UMC Children DISCIPLE - Take Faith Home

October 30 - 24th Sunday in KingdomtideFaith in Action SundaySermon by Rev. Robert English

DISCIPLE - Take Faith Public

Beautiful music by the Chancel Choir. Communion on 1st Sundays

Love God / Love Neighbor / Love SelfCommunion weekly

october 2016 sentinel - wordpress.com · 10-10-2016 · book available online, and at the sunday...

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