Order of Worship for September 7, 2025: Do Not Grow Weary in Doing What is Right - Rev. Jennifer Gutierrez, preaching

Call to Worship - Those of you joining us from home are invited to light a candle to welcome the presence of the Holy Spirit

Lily - Kate Bush - El Dorado

Welcome - Stephen Folds

Take You at Your Word - - El Dorado

Passing of the Peace: Through the act of passing the peace of Christ, we offer our sincere desire to love our neighbor.
You are invited to greet one another in the live stream chat on Instagram, YouTube, and Facebook. 

Know Your Rights:

You have constitutional rights:

• DO NOT OPEN THE DOOR if an immigration agent is knocking on the door.

• DO NOT ANSWER ANY QUESTIONS from an immigration agent if they try to talk to you. You have the right to remain silent.

• DO NOT SIGN ANYTHING without first speaking to a lawyer. You have the right to speak with a lawyer.

• If you are outside of your home, ask the agent if you are free to leave and if they say yes, leave calmly.

• GIVE THIS CARD TO THE AGENT. If you are inside of your home, show the card through the window or slide it under the door.

I do not wish to speak with you, answer your questions, or sign or hand you any documents based on my 5th Amendment rights under the United States Constitution.

I do not give you permission to enter my home based on my 4th Amendment rights under the United States Constitution unless you have a warrant to enter, signed by a judge or magistrate with my name on it that you slide under the door.

I do not give you permission to search any of my belongings based on my 4th Amendment rights.

I choose to exercise my constitutional rights.

These cards are available to citizens and noncitizens alike.

CALL TO PRAYER: Is He Worthy? - El Dorado

Joys and Concerns: Prayers of the People We believe that the best way to bear our burdens is to share them with one another. You are welcome to share your joys and concerns so that our community can hold these things in our hearts as we lift them to God together. 

You are invited to share your prayers in the Facebook Live Chat, or on the YouTube Live chat.

New Testament Lesson: Galatians 6:7-10, NRSV

Do not be deceived; God is not mocked, for you reap whatever you sow.  If you sow to your own flesh, you will reap corruption from the flesh, but if you sow to the Spirit, you will reap eternal life from the Spirit.  So let us not grow weary in doing what is right, for we will reap at harvest time, if we do not give up.  So then, whenever we have an opportunity, let us work for the good of all and especially for those of the family of faith.


One: This is the word of God for us, the People of God.
All: Thanks be to God!

Sermon: Do Not Grow Weary in Doing What Is Right - Rev. Jennifer Gutierrez, preaching

HOLY COMMUNION

Invitation to the Table: As we understand the Body of Christ to be inclusive, we understand God’s table of grace and fellowship can extend into our homes. As you’re able, bring your own elements to this time.

Bread, Juice, Coffee, Muffins… the Body of Christ is comprised of wonder and mystery. Today, we celebrate that God can reach us where we are, even if we are not together.

The Great Mystery of our Faith
All: Christ has died
Christ is risen. 
Christ will come again.

The Lord’s Prayer
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name, 
thy kingdom come, thy will be done, 
on earth as it is in heaven. 

Give us this day our daily bread. 
And forgive us our trespasses, 
as we forgive those who trespass against us. 

And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. 

For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, 
for ever and ever. Amen.

MUSIC: Lost Stars - El Dorado

Benediction

And remember:
God is with you,
God is for you, 
God refuses to be God without you. 
And may all of God’s people say: Amen!

Donate

🚨 ONLINE ONLY 🚨 Order of Worship for August 24, 2025: Sun of Righteousness

Call to Worship - Those of you joining us from home are invited to light a candle to welcome the presence of the Holy Spirit

Let the Day Begin - El Dorado

Welcome - Stephen Folds

They’ll Know We Are Christians By Our Love - El Dorado

Passing of the Peace: Through the act of passing the peace of Christ, we offer our sincere desire to love our neighbor.
You are invited to greet one another in the live stream chat on Instagram, YouTube, and Facebook. 

Dedicated Cooling Centers for the Weekend

10 AM - 9 PM

NOW EXTENDED THROUGH SUNDAY

Open thru Sunday (August 24)

CANOGA PARK Sr. Citizen's Center - 7326 Jordan Ave., Canoga Park  91303; phone: (818) 340-2633 

NORTH HOLLYWOOD Sr. Citizen Center - 5301 Tujunga Ave., No. Hollywood  91601; phone: (818) 763-7651

PECAN Recreation Center - 145 S. Pecan St., LA  90033; phone: (323) 656-2154

ALGIN SUTTON Recreation Center  - 8800 S. Hoover St., LA  90044; phone: (323) 753-5808

Find more than 100 additional centers (Recreation & Parks facilities & pools, plus City Public Library branches) also available for cooling during regular hours of operation, along with hydration stations -- by using the interactive Cool Spots LA link. 

 LA Public Library Branches
NOW Open Sunday, August 24, 1 PM - 5 PM

Chinatown Branch  - 639 N. Hill St., LA  90012; phone: (213) 620-0925

Pacoima Branch- 13605 Van Nuys Blvd., Pacoima  91331; phone: (818) 899-5203

Central & regional branches are ALSO open Sundays, from 1 PM to 5 PM:

Locations: Central (Downtown), Arroyo Seco, Expo Park, Hollywood, Mid-Valley, North Hollywood, Robertson, San Pedro, West LA and West Valley.

Know Your Rights:

You have constitutional rights:

• DO NOT OPEN THE DOOR if an immigration agent is knocking on the door.

• DO NOT ANSWER ANY QUESTIONS from an immigration agent if they try to talk to you. You have the right to remain silent.

• DO NOT SIGN ANYTHING without first speaking to a lawyer. You have the right to speak with a lawyer.

• If you are outside of your home, ask the agent if you are free to leave and if they say yes, leave calmly.

• GIVE THIS CARD TO THE AGENT. If you are inside of your home, show the card through the window or slide it under the door.

I do not wish to speak with you, answer your questions, or sign or hand you any documents based on my 5th Amendment rights under the United States Constitution.

I do not give you permission to enter my home based on my 4th Amendment rights under the United States Constitution unless you have a warrant to enter, signed by a judge or magistrate with my name on it that you slide under the door.

I do not give you permission to search any of my belongings based on my 4th Amendment rights.

I choose to exercise my constitutional rights.

These cards are available to citizens and noncitizens alike.

CALL TO PRAYER: How Great Thou Art - El Dorado

Joys and Concerns: Prayers of the People We believe that the best way to bear our burdens is to share them with one another. You are welcome to share your joys and concerns so that our community can hold these things in our hearts as we lift them to God together. 

You are invited to share your prayers in the Facebook Live Chat, or on the YouTube Live chat.

Old Testament Lesson: Malachi 4:1-6, NRSV

See, the day is coming, burning like an oven, when all the arrogant and all evildoers will be stubble; the day that comes shall burn them up, says the Lord of hosts, so that it will leave them neither root nor branch. But for you who revere my name the sun of righteousness shall rise, with healing in its wings. You shall go out leaping like calves from the stall. And you shall tread down the wicked, for they will be ashes under the soles of your feet, on the day when I act, says the Lord of hosts.

Remember the teaching of my servant Moses, the statutes and ordinances that I commanded him at Horeb for all Israel.

See, I will send you the prophet Elijah before the great and terrible day of the Lord comes. He will turn the hearts of parents to their children and the hearts of children to their parents, so that I will not come and strike the land with a curse.

One: This is the word of God for us, the People of God.
All: Thanks be to God!

Sermon: Sun of Righteousness - Rev. Dr. Mandy McDow, preaching

HOLY COMMUNION

Invitation to the Table: As we understand the Body of Christ to be inclusive, we understand God’s table of grace and fellowship can extend into our homes. As you’re able, bring your own elements to this time.

Bread, Juice, Coffee, Muffins… the Body of Christ is comprised of wonder and mystery. Today, we celebrate that God can reach us where we are, even if we are not together.

The Great Mystery of our Faith
All: Christ has died
Christ is risen. 
Christ will come again.

The Lord’s Prayer
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name, 
thy kingdom come, thy will be done, 
on earth as it is in heaven. 

Give us this day our daily bread. 
And forgive us our trespasses, 
as we forgive those who trespass against us. 

And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. 

For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, 
for ever and ever. Amen.

MUSIC: Ring the Bells!- El Dorado

Benediction

And remember:
God is with you,
God is for you, 
God refuses to be God without you. 
And may all of God’s people say: Amen!

Donate

Order of Worship for August 17, 2025: Easter in August! Christ the Lord is Risen Today!

Call to Worship - Those of you joining us from home are invited to light a candle to welcome the presence of the Holy Spirit

Christ the Lord is Risen Today! - Charles Wesley, 1739 El Dorado

Welcome - Stephen Folds

Praise - Seph Schlueter - El Dorado

Passing of the Peace: Through the act of passing the peace of Christ, we offer our sincere desire to love our neighbor.
You are invited to greet one another in the live stream chat on Instagram, YouTube, and Facebook. 

Mr. Byron Hayes, Jr.

It is with sadness that we inform you of the death of Mr. Byron Hayes Jr., a lay member in the California-Pacific Conference, on July 11, 2025. Mr. Hayes, a lawyer, was the first Chancellor of The California-Pacfic Conference, provided legal services to many churches in our conference, and served faithfully on conference committees including the Board of Trustees.

Mr. Hayes was the Chair of the Pacific and Southwest UM Foundation in the late 1970s, as well as the Chancellor of the conference at its creation, serving as Chancellor of the Pacific and Southwest Annual Conference starting in 1978, and continuing on as the Chancellor of the California-Pacific conference at its creation in 1985. As Chancellor, he started the Conference Lawyers Committee. He also prepared the first draft of a settlement agreement for the Pacific Homes litigation, and chaired the negotiating committee that finalized the settlement. Mr. Hayes received the Bishop's medal twice, and the Bishop's Award in 2017. 

Byron’s celebration of life will be held:

Saturday, August 23, 2025 at 9:30 am
First United Methodist Church of North Hollywood
Main Sanctuary, Rev. Dr. Mandy McDow, presiding

Please RSVP to Tricia Hayes Christiansen if you plan to attend

Know Your Rights:

You have constitutional rights:

• DO NOT OPEN THE DOOR if an immigration agent is knocking on the door.

• DO NOT ANSWER ANY QUESTIONS from an immigration agent if they try to talk to you. You have the right to remain silent.

• DO NOT SIGN ANYTHING without first speaking to a lawyer. You have the right to speak with a lawyer.

• If you are outside of your home, ask the agent if you are free to leave and if they say yes, leave calmly.

• GIVE THIS CARD TO THE AGENT. If you are inside of your home, show the card through the window or slide it under the door.

I do not wish to speak with you, answer your questions, or sign or hand you any documents based on my 5th Amendment rights under the United States Constitution.

I do not give you permission to enter my home based on my 4th Amendment rights under the United States Constitution unless you have a warrant to enter, signed by a judge or magistrate with my name on it that you slide under the door.

I do not give you permission to search any of my belongings based on my 4th Amendment rights.

I choose to exercise my constitutional rights.

These cards are available to citizens and noncitizens alike.

CALL TO PRAYER: Hail the Day that Sees Him Rise- Charles Wesley, 1740 - El Dorado

Joys and Concerns: Prayers of the People We believe that the best way to bear our burdens is to share them with one another. You are welcome to share your joys and concerns so that our community can hold these things in our hearts as we lift them to God together. 

You are invited to share your prayers in the Facebook Live Chat, or on the YouTube Live chat.

Gospel Lesson: Matthew 28:1-10, NRSV

After the Sabbath, as the first day of the week was dawning, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to see the tomb. And suddenly there was a great earthquake, for an angel of the Lord, descending from heaven, came and rolled back the stone and sat on it. His appearance was like lightning and his clothing white as snow. For fear of him the guards shook and became like dead men. But the angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus who was crucified. He is not here, for he has been raised, as he said. Come, see the place where he lay. Then go quickly and tell his disciples, ‘He has been raised from the dead, and indeed he is going ahead of you to Galilee; there you will see him.’ This is my message for you.” So they left the tomb quickly with fear and great joy and ran to tell his disciples. Suddenly Jesus met them and said, “Greetings!” And they came to him, took hold of his feet, and worshiped him.Then Jesus said to them, “Do not be afraid; go and tell my brothers and sisters to go to Galilee; there they will see me.”

One: This is the word of God for us, the People of God.
All: Thanks be to God!

Sermon: Christ the Lord is Risen Today - Rev. Dr. Mandy McDow, preaching

HOLY COMMUNION

Invitation to the Table: As we understand the Body of Christ to be inclusive, we understand God’s table of grace and fellowship can extend into our homes. As you’re able, bring your own elements to this time.

Bread, Juice, Coffee, Muffins… the Body of Christ is comprised of wonder and mystery. Today, we celebrate that God can reach us where we are, even if we are not together.

The Great Mystery of our Faith
All: Christ has died
Christ is risen. 
Christ will come again.

The Lord’s Prayer
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name, 
thy kingdom come, thy will be done, 
on earth as it is in heaven. 

Give us this day our daily bread. 
And forgive us our trespasses, 
as we forgive those who trespass against us. 

And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. 

For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, 
for ever and ever. Amen.

MUSIC: In Christ Alone - El Dorado

Benediction

And remember:
God is with you,
God is for you, 
God refuses to be God without you. 
And may all of God’s people say: Amen!

Donate

Order of Worship for August 10, 2025: A Charge to Keep I Have

Call to Worship - Those of you joining us from home are invited to light a candle to welcome the presence of the Holy Spirit

Lost Stars - El Dorado

Welcome - Stephen Folds

O, For a Thousand Tongues to Sing - Charles Wesley - El Dorado

Passing of the Peace: Through the act of passing the peace of Christ, we offer our sincere desire to love our neighbor.
You are invited to greet one another in the live stream chat on Instagram, YouTube, and Facebook. 

Mr. Byron Hayes, Jr.

It is with sadness that we inform you of the death of Mr. Byron Hayes Jr., a lay member in the California-Pacific Conference, on July 11, 2025. Mr. Hayes, a lawyer, was the first Chancellor of The California-Pacfic Conference, provided legal services to many churches in our conference, and served faithfully on conference committees including the Board of Trustees.

Mr. Hayes was the Chair of the Pacific and Southwest UM Foundation in the late 1970s, as well as the Chancellor of the conference at its creation, serving as Chancellor of the Pacific and Southwest Annual Conference starting in 1978, and continuing on as the Chancellor of the California-Pacific conference at its creation in 1985. As Chancellor, he started the Conference Lawyers Committee. He also prepared the first draft of a settlement agreement for the Pacific Homes litigation, and chaired the negotiating committee that finalized the settlement. Mr. Hayes received the Bishop's medal twice, and the Bishop's Award in 2017. 

Byron’s celebration of life will be held:

Saturday, August 23, 2025 at 9:30 am
First United Methodist Church of North Hollywood
Main Sanctuary, Rev. Dr. Mandy McDow, presiding
4832 Tujunga Ave.
Los Angeles, CA 91601

Please RSVP to Tricia Hayes Christiansen if you plan to attend

Know Your Rights:

You have constitutional rights:

• DO NOT OPEN THE DOOR if an immigration agent is knocking on the door.

• DO NOT ANSWER ANY QUESTIONS from an immigration agent if they try to talk to you. You have the right to remain silent.

• DO NOT SIGN ANYTHING without first speaking to a lawyer. You have the right to speak with a lawyer.

• If you are outside of your home, ask the agent if you are free to leave and if they say yes, leave calmly.

• GIVE THIS CARD TO THE AGENT. If you are inside of your home, show the card through the window or slide it under the door.

I do not wish to speak with you, answer your questions, or sign or hand you any documents based on my 5th Amendment rights under the United States Constitution.

I do not give you permission to enter my home based on my 4th Amendment rights under the United States Constitution unless you have a warrant to enter, signed by a judge or magistrate with my name on it that you slide under the door.

I do not give you permission to search any of my belongings based on my 4th Amendment rights.

I choose to exercise my constitutional rights.

These cards are available to citizens and noncitizens alike.

CALL TO PRAYER: A Charge to Keep I Have - Charles Wesley, 1740 - El Dorado

Joys and Concerns: Prayers of the People We believe that the best way to bear our burdens is to share them with one another. You are welcome to share your joys and concerns so that our community can hold these things in our hearts as we lift them to God together. 

You are invited to share your prayers in the Facebook Live Chat, or on the YouTube Live chat.

Hebrew Bible Lesson: Leviticus 8:30-36, NRSV

Then Moses took some of the anointing oil and some of the blood that was on the altar and sprinkled them on Aaron and his vestments and also on his sons and their vestments. Thus he consecrated Aaron and his vestments and also his sons and their vestments.

And Moses said to Aaron and his sons, “Boil the flesh at the entrance of the tent of meeting, and eat it there with the bread that is in the basket of ordination offerings, as I was commanded, ‘Aaron and his sons shall eat it,’ and what remains of the flesh and the bread you shall burn with fire. You shall not go outside the entrance of the tent of meeting for seven days, until the day when your period of ordination is completed. For it will take seven days to ordain you; as has been done today, the Lord has commanded to be done to make atonement for you.You shall remain at the entrance of the tent of meeting day and night for seven days, keeping the Lord’s charge so that you do not die, for so have I been commanded.” Aaron and his sons did all the things that the Lord had commanded through Moses.

One: This is the word of God for us, the People of God.
All: Thanks be to God!

Sermon: A Charge to Keep, I Have - Rev. Dr. Mandy McDow, preaching

HOLY COMMUNION

Invitation to the Table: As we understand the Body of Christ to be inclusive, we understand God’s table of grace and fellowship can extend into our homes. As you’re able, bring your own elements to this time.

Bread, Juice, Coffee, Muffins… the Body of Christ is comprised of wonder and mystery. Today, we celebrate that God can reach us where we are, even if we are not together.

The Great Mystery of our Faith
All: Christ has died
Christ is risen. 
Christ will come again.

The Lord’s Prayer
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name, 
thy kingdom come, thy will be done, 
on earth as it is in heaven. 

Give us this day our daily bread. 
And forgive us our trespasses, 
as we forgive those who trespass against us. 

And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. 

For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, 
for ever and ever. Amen.

MUSIC: Because He Lives - El Dorado

Benediction

And remember:
God is with you,
God is for you, 
God refuses to be God without you. 
And may all of God’s people say: Amen!

Donate

Order of Worship for August 3, 2025: Lead Me, Lord

Call to Worship - Those of you joining us from home are invited to light a candle to welcome the presence of the Holy Spirit

Break Me Out - The Rescues- El Dorado

Welcome - Jorge Villanueva

Blessed Assurance - Fanny Crosby - El Dorado

Passing of the Peace: Through the act of passing the peace of Christ, we offer our sincere desire to love our neighbor.
You are invited to greet one another in the live stream chat on Instagram, YouTube, and Facebook. 

Know Your Rights:

You have constitutional rights:

• DO NOT OPEN THE DOOR if an immigration agent is knocking on the door.

• DO NOT ANSWER ANY QUESTIONS from an immigration agent if they try to talk to you. You have the right to remain silent.

• DO NOT SIGN ANYTHING without first speaking to a lawyer. You have the right to speak with a lawyer.

• If you are outside of your home, ask the agent if you are free to leave and if they say yes, leave calmly.

• GIVE THIS CARD TO THE AGENT. If you are inside of your home, show the card through the window or slide it under the door.

I do not wish to speak with you, answer your questions, or sign or hand you any documents based on my 5th Amendment rights under the United States Constitution.

I do not give you permission to enter my home based on my 4th Amendment rights under the United States Constitution unless you have a warrant to enter, signed by a judge or magistrate with my name on it that you slide under the door.

I do not give you permission to search any of my belongings based on my 4th Amendment rights.

I choose to exercise my constitutional rights.

These cards are available to citizens and noncitizens alike.

CALL TO PRAYER: Lead Me, Lord - Samuel Sebastian Wesley - El Dorado

Joys and Concerns: Prayers of the People We believe that the best way to bear our burdens is to share them with one another. You are welcome to share your joys and concerns so that our community can hold these things in our hearts as we lift them to God together. 

You are invited to share your prayers in the Facebook Live Chat, or on the YouTube Live chat.

Hebrew Bible Lesson: Psalm 5, NRSV

Listen to my words, O Lord;
    attend to my sighing.
Listen to the sound of my cry,
    my King and my God,
    for to you I pray.
O Lord, in the morning you hear my voice;
    in the morning I plead my case to you and watch.

For you are not a God who delights in wickedness;
    evil will not sojourn with you.
The boastful will not stand before your eyes;
    you hate all evildoers.
You destroy those who speak lies;
    the Lord abhors the bloodthirsty and deceitful.

But I, through the abundance of your steadfast love,
    will enter your house;
I will bow down toward your holy temple
    in awe of you.
Lead me, O Lord, in your righteousness
    because of my enemies;
    make your way straight before me.

For there is no truth in their mouths;
    their hearts are destruction;
their throats are open graves;
    they flatter with their tongues.
Make them bear their guilt, O God;
    let them fall by their own counsels;
because of their many transgressions, cast them out,
    for they have rebelled against you.

But let all who take refuge in you rejoice;
    let them ever sing for joy.
Spread your protection over them,
    so that those who love your name may exult in you.
For you bless the righteous, O Lord;
    you cover them with favor as with a shield.

One: This is the word of God for us, the People of God.
All: Thanks be to God!

Sermon: Lead Me, Lord - Rev. Dr. Mandy McDow, preaching

HOLY COMMUNION

Invitation to the Table: As we understand the Body of Christ to be inclusive, we understand God’s table of grace and fellowship can extend into our homes. As you’re able, bring your own elements to this time.

Bread, Juice, Coffee, Muffins… the Body of Christ is comprised of wonder and mystery. Today, we celebrate that God can reach us where we are, even if we are not together.

The Great Mystery of our Faith
All: Christ has died
Christ is risen. 
Christ will come again.

The Lord’s Prayer
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name, 
thy kingdom come, thy will be done, 
on earth as it is in heaven. 

Give us this day our daily bread. 
And forgive us our trespasses, 
as we forgive those who trespass against us. 

And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. 

For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, 
for ever and ever. Amen.

MUSIC: Prayer of Saint Francis - El Dorado

Benediction

And remember:
God is with you,
God is for you, 
God refuses to be God without you. 
And may all of God’s people say: Amen!

Donate

Order of Worship for July 27, 2025: Christmas in July - Lisa Williams, preaching

Call to Worship - Those of you joining us from home are invited to light a candle to welcome the presence of the Holy Spirit

Hark! The Herald Angels Sing - Charles Wesley- El Dorado

Welcome - Stephen Folds

Praise - Seph Schlueter - El Dorado

Passing of the Peace: Through the act of passing the peace of Christ, we offer our sincere desire to love our neighbor.
You are invited to greet one another in the live stream chat on Instagram, YouTube, and Facebook. 

Know Your Rights:

You have constitutional rights:

• DO NOT OPEN THE DOOR if an immigration agent is knocking on the door.

• DO NOT ANSWER ANY QUESTIONS from an immigration agent if they try to talk to you. You have the right to remain silent.

• DO NOT SIGN ANYTHING without first speaking to a lawyer. You have the right to speak with a lawyer.

• If you are outside of your home, ask the agent if you are free to leave and if they say yes, leave calmly.

• GIVE THIS CARD TO THE AGENT. If you are inside of your home, show the card through the window or slide it under the door.

I do not wish to speak with you, answer your questions, or sign or hand you any documents based on my 5th Amendment rights under the United States Constitution.

I do not give you permission to enter my home based on my 4th Amendment rights under the United States Constitution unless you have a warrant to enter, signed by a judge or magistrate with my name on it that you slide under the door.

I do not give you permission to search any of my belongings based on my 4th Amendment rights.

I choose to exercise my constitutional rights.

These cards are available to citizens and noncitizens alike.

CALL TO PRAYER: Come, Thou Long Expected Jesus - Charles Wesley - El Dorado

Joys and Concerns: Prayers of the People We believe that the best way to bear our burdens is to share them with one another. You are welcome to share your joys and concerns so that our community can hold these things in our hearts as we lift them to God together. 

You are invited to share your prayers in the Facebook Live Chat, or on the YouTube Live chat.

New Testament Lesson:

One: This is the word of God for us, the People of God.
All: Thanks be to God!

Sermon: Waiting… Pastor Lisa Williams, preaching

HOLY COMMUNION

Invitation to the Table: As we understand the Body of Christ to be inclusive, we understand God’s table of grace and fellowship can extend into our homes. As you’re able, bring your own elements to this time.

Bread, Juice, Coffee, Muffins… the Body of Christ is comprised of wonder and mystery. Today, we celebrate that God can reach us where we are, even if we are not together.

The Great Mystery of our Faith
All: Christ has died
Christ is risen. 
Christ will come again.

The Lord’s Prayer
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name, 
thy kingdom come, thy will be done, 
on earth as it is in heaven. 

Give us this day our daily bread. 
And forgive us our trespasses, 
as we forgive those who trespass against us. 

And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. 

For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, 
for ever and ever. Amen.

MUSIC: Firm Foundation (He Won’t) - El Dorado

Benediction

And remember:
God is with you,
God is for you, 
God refuses to be God without you. 
And may all of God’s people say: Amen!

Donate

Order of Worship for July 20, 2025: Maker in Whom We Live

Call to Worship - Those of you joining us from home are invited to light a candle to welcome the presence of the Holy Spirit

Dreamworld - Midnight Oil - El Dorado

Welcome - Stephen Folds

O For a Thousand Tongues to Sing (Worthy, Worthy) - Charles Wesley, 1739 - El Dorado

Passing of the Peace: Through the act of passing the peace of Christ, we offer our sincere desire to love our neighbor.
You are invited to greet one another in the live stream chat on Instagram, YouTube, and Facebook. 

Know Your Rights:

You have constitutional rights:

• DO NOT OPEN THE DOOR if an immigration agent is knocking on the door.

• DO NOT ANSWER ANY QUESTIONS from an immigration agent if they try to talk to you. You have the right to remain silent.

• DO NOT SIGN ANYTHING without first speaking to a lawyer. You have the right to speak with a lawyer.

• If you are outside of your home, ask the agent if you are free to leave and if they say yes, leave calmly.

• GIVE THIS CARD TO THE AGENT. If you are inside of your home, show the card through the window or slide it under the door.

I do not wish to speak with you, answer your questions, or sign or hand you any documents based on my 5th Amendment rights under the United States Constitution.

I do not give you permission to enter my home based on my 4th Amendment rights under the United States Constitution unless you have a warrant to enter, signed by a judge or magistrate with my name on it that you slide under the door.

I do not give you permission to search any of my belongings based on my 4th Amendment rights.

I choose to exercise my constitutional rights.

These cards are available to citizens and noncitizens alike.

CALL TO PRAYER: Maker in Whom We Live - Charles Wesley, 1747 - El Dorado

Joys and Concerns: Prayers of the People We believe that the best way to bear our burdens is to share them with one another. You welcome to share your joys and concerns so that our community can hold these things in our hearts as we lift them to God together. 

You are invited to share your prayers in the Facebook Live Chat, or on the YouTube Live chat.

New Testament Lesson: Acts 17:22-31, NRSV

Then Paul stood in front of the Areopagus and said, “Athenians, I see how extremely spiritual you are in every way. For as I went through the city and looked carefully at the objects of your worship, I found among them an altar with the inscription, ‘To an unknown god.’ What therefore you worship as unknown, this I proclaim to you. The God who made the world and everything in it, he who is Lord of heaven and earth, does not live in shrines made by human hands, nor is he served by human hands, as though he needed anything, since he himself gives to all mortals life and breath and all things. From one ancestor he made all peoples to inhabit the whole earth, and he allotted the times of their existence and the boundaries of the places where they would live, so that they would search for God and perhaps fumble about for him and find him—though indeed he is not far from each one of us. For ‘In him we live and move and have our being’; as even some of your own poets have said,

‘For we, too, are his offspring.’

“Since we are God’s offspring, we ought not to think that the deity is like gold or silver or stone, an image formed by the art and imagination of mortals. While God has overlooked the times of human ignorance, now he commands all people everywhere to repent, because he has fixed a day on which he will have the world judged in righteousness by a man whom he has appointed, and of this he has given assurance to all by raising him from the dead.”

One: This is the word of God for us, the People of God.
All: Thanks be to God!

Sermon: Maker in Whom We Live, Rev. Dr. Mandy McDow, preaching

HOLY COMMUNION

All are welcome to come forward to be  anointed individually.
If you like, you may come as an individual, or with your spouse or partner, children, or with friends and family of choice. All are welcomed. All are loved. 

Invitation to the Table: As we understand the Body of Christ to be inclusive, we understand God’s table of grace and fellowship can extend into our homes. As you’re able, bring your own elements to this time.

Bread, Juice, Coffee, Muffins… the Body of Christ is comprised of wonder and mystery. Today, we celebrate that God can reach us where we are, even if we are not together.

The Great Mystery of our Faith
All: Christ has died
Christ is risen. 
Christ will come again.

The Lord’s Prayer
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name, 
thy kingdom come, thy will be done, 
on earth as it is in heaven. 

Give us this day our daily bread. 
And forgive us our trespasses, 
as we forgive those who trespass against us. 

And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. 

For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, 
for ever and ever. Amen.

MUSIC: Good, Good Father - El Dorado

Benediction

And remember:
God is with you,
God is for you, 
God refuses to be God without you. 
And may all of God’s people say: Amen!

Donate

Order of Worship for July 13, 2025: Come, Sinners to the Gospel Feast - Lisa Williams, preaching

Call to Worship - Those of you joining us from home are invited to light a candle to welcome the presence of the Holy Spirit

Is He Worthy - El Dorado

Welcome - Stephen Folds

Take You at Your Word - El Dorado

Passing of the Peace: Through the act of passing the peace of Christ, we offer our sincere desire to love our neighbor.
You are invited to greet one another in the live stream chat on Instagram, YouTube, and Facebook. 

HOW YOU CAN HELP: 

After the devastating floods left 51 dead in Kerrville, Texas, many have asked how they can pray and support the community. The Rio Texas Conference shared on Facebook that as they continue to assess the impact of the flooding along the Guadalupe River and surrounding communities, one of the most effective ways you can help right now is through financial gifts.

Bishop Harvey and the Disaster Response Team encourage churches and individuals to contribute to the Rio Texas Conference Disaster Response Advance #2050, noting “Guadalupe River Flood” on your gift.

How to give:

  • Churches: If taking an offering, please send collected gifts to the Rio Texas Conference office, designated to Advance #2050 — Guadalupe River Flood.

  • Individuals: You may give through your local church, or mail contributions directly to the conference office at: Rio Texas Conference, 16400 Huebner Rd., San Antonio, TX 78248

Your generosity will support immediate needs in the affected areas. They are also working with UMCOR on securing an initial grant to aid our response. The conference will continue sharing updates on their Facebook page and disaster response website at: https://riotexasresponse.org

UMCOR has also committed to providing response to this disaster, and you can give to their US Disaster Response and Recovery fund at this link. 

https://riotexasresponse.org

On June 13, Israel launched illegal and unprovoked attacks on Iran, with Iran retaliating with ballistic missile strikes and drone attacks on Israel. This represents an unprecedented escalation, with hundreds of civilians killed and residential buildings and civilian infrastructure destroyed. The U.S. did not take part in the attacks but has provided support in weapons to Israel.

We call on the U.S. to commit to no direct military engagement and instead engage in direct diplomacy with Iran.

Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA), Representative Thomas Massie (R-KY), and Representative Ro Khanna (D-CA) have introduced War Powers Resolutions which would clarify there is no authorization for the U.S. to enter the war. Congress must assert their constitutional authority and resist U.S. involvement in another endless war in the Middle East.

Furthermore, the Israeli strikes were timed to derail negotiations on Iran’s nuclear program. The only way forward for the U.S. is to de-escalate, prioritize diplomacy, stop weapons to Israel, and refrain from direct involvement in the conflict.

As United Methodists, “We reject the use of war as an instrument of foreign policy and insist that every peaceful and diplomatic means of resolution be exhausted before the start of armed conflicts.” Social Principles, Political Community, Government Responsibilities, F., War and Military Service

This latest escalation is happening in the context of a year and a half of Israeli bombing of Gaza as well as Israeli attacks on Yemen, Lebanon, and Syria. War is never in the interests of anyone around the world.

We as people of faith must call on our elected officials to oppose war and support diplomacy. Contact your Senators and Representatives today ask them to support the Iran War Powers Resolution.

July 16: Chapter 32 - in person at Center Pointe Villas  in Norwalk

Know Your Rights:

You have constitutional rights:

• DO NOT OPEN THE DOOR if an immigration agent is knocking on the door.

• DO NOT ANSWER ANY QUESTIONS from an immigration agent if they try to talk to you. You have the right to remain silent.

• DO NOT SIGN ANYTHING without first speaking to a lawyer. You have the right to speak with a lawyer.

• If you are outside of your home, ask the agent if you are free to leave and if they say yes, leave calmly.

• GIVE THIS CARD TO THE AGENT. If you are inside of your home, show the card through the window or slide it under the door.

I do not wish to speak with you, answer your questions, or sign or hand you any documents based on my 5th Amendment rights under the United States Constitution.

I do not give you permission to enter my home based on my 4th Amendment rights under the United States Constitution unless you have a warrant to enter, signed by a judge or magistrate with my name on it that you slide under the door.

I do not give you permission to search any of my belongings based on my 4th Amendment rights.

I choose to exercise my constitutional rights.

These cards are available to citizens and noncitizens alike.

CALL TO PRAYER: Come, Sinners, to the Gospel Feast - Charles Wesley, 1747 - El Dorado

Joys and Concerns: Prayers of the People We believe that the best way to bear our burdens is to share them with one another. You welcome to share your joys and concerns so that our community can hold these things in our hearts as we lift them to God together. 

You are invited to share your prayers in the Facebook Live Chat, or on the YouTube Live chat.

Gospel Lesson: Luke 14:16-24, NRSV

Then Jesus said to him, “Someone gave a great dinner and invited many. At the time for the dinner he sent his slave to say to those who had been invited, ‘Come, for everything is ready now.’ But they all alike began to make excuses. The first said to him, ‘I have bought a piece of land, and I must go out and see it; please accept my regrets.’ Another said, ‘I have bought five yoke of oxen, and I am going to try them out; please accept my regrets.’ Another said, ‘I have just been married, and therefore I cannot come.’ So the slave returned and reported this to his master. Then the owner of the house became angry and said to his slave, ‘Go out at once into the streets and lanes of the town and bring in the poor, the crippled, the blind, and the lame.’ And the slave said, ‘Sir, what you ordered has been done, and there is still room.’ Then the master said to the slave, ‘Go out into the roads and lanes, and compel people to come in, so that my house may be filled. For I tell you, none of those who were invited will taste my dinner.’ ”

One: This is the word of God for us, the People of God.
All: Thanks be to God!

Sermon: Come, Sinners, to the Gospel Feast, Lisa Williams, preaching

HOLY COMMUNION

All are welcome to come forward to be  anointed individually.
If you like, you may come as an individual, or with your spouse or partner, children, or with friends and family of choice. All are welcomed. All are loved. 

Invitation to the Table: As we understand the Body of Christ to be inclusive, we understand God’s table of grace and fellowship can extend into our homes. As you’re able, bring your own elements to this time.

Bread, Juice, Coffee, Muffins… the Body of Christ is comprised of wonder and mystery. Today, we celebrate that God can reach us where we are, even if we are not together.

The Great Mystery of our Faith
All: Christ has died
Christ is risen. 
Christ will come again.

The Lord’s Prayer
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name, 
thy kingdom come, thy will be done, 
on earth as it is in heaven. 

Give us this day our daily bread. 
And forgive us our trespasses, 
as we forgive those who trespass against us. 

And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. 

For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, 
for ever and ever. Amen.

MUSIC: On Time God - El Dorado

Benediction

And remember:
God is with you,
God is for you, 
God refuses to be God without you. 
And may all of God’s people say: Amen!

Donate

Order of Worship for June 29, 2025: Come, O Thou Traveler Unknown

Call to Worship - Those of you joining us from home are invited to light a candle to welcome the presence of the Holy Spirit

Come, O Thou Traveler Unknown - Charles Wesley, 1742- El Dorado

Welcome - Stephen Folds

O For a Thousand Tongues to Sing - Charles Wesley, 1739 - El Dorado

Passing of the Peace: Through the act of passing the peace of Christ, we offer our sincere desire to love our neighbor.
You are invited to greet one another in the live stream chat on Instagram, YouTube, and Facebook. 

On June 13, Israel launched illegal and unprovoked attacks on Iran, with Iran retaliating with ballistic missile strikes and drone attacks on Israel. This represents an unprecedented escalation, with hundreds of civilians killed and residential buildings and civilian infrastructure destroyed. The U.S. did not take part in the attacks but has provided support in weapons to Israel.

We call on the U.S. to commit to no direct military engagement and instead engage in direct diplomacy with Iran.

Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA), Representative Thomas Massie (R-KY), and Representative Ro Khanna (D-CA) have introduced War Powers Resolutions which would clarify there is no authorization for the U.S. to enter the war. Congress must assert their constitutional authority and resist U.S. involvement in another endless war in the Middle East.

Furthermore, the Israeli strikes were timed to derail negotiations on Iran’s nuclear program. The only way forward for the U.S. is to de-escalate, prioritize diplomacy, stop weapons to Israel, and refrain from direct involvement in the conflict.

As United Methodists, “We reject the use of war as an instrument of foreign policy and insist that every peaceful and diplomatic means of resolution be exhausted before the start of armed conflicts.” Social Principles, Political Community, Government Responsibilities, F., War and Military Service

This latest escalation is happening in the context of a year and a half of Israeli bombing of Gaza as well as Israeli attacks on Yemen, Lebanon, and Syria. War is never in the interests of anyone around the world.

We as people of faith must call on our elected officials to oppose war and support diplomacy. Contact your Senators and Representatives today ask them to support the Iran War Powers Resolution.

July 2: Chapters 29 and 30
July 9: Chapter 31
July 16: Chapter 32 - in person at Center Pointe Villas  in Norwalk

Know Your Rights:

You have constitutional rights:

• DO NOT OPEN THE DOOR if an immigration agent is knocking on the door.

• DO NOT ANSWER ANY QUESTIONS from an immigration agent if they try to talk to you. You have the right to remain silent.

• DO NOT SIGN ANYTHING without first speaking to a lawyer. You have the right to speak with a lawyer.

• If you are outside of your home, ask the agent if you are free to leave and if they say yes, leave calmly.

• GIVE THIS CARD TO THE AGENT. If you are inside of your home, show the card through the window or slide it under the door.

I do not wish to speak with you, answer your questions, or sign or hand you any documents based on my 5th Amendment rights under the United States Constitution.

I do not give you permission to enter my home based on my 4th Amendment rights under the United States Constitution unless you have a warrant to enter, signed by a judge or magistrate with my name on it that you slide under the door.

I do not give you permission to search any of my belongings based on my 4th Amendment rights.

I choose to exercise my constitutional rights.

These cards are available to citizens and noncitizens alike.

CALL TO PRAYER: Where Can I Go? - El Dorado

Joys and Concerns: Prayers of the People We believe that the best way to bear our burdens is to share them with one another. You welcome to share your joys and concerns so that our community can hold these things in our hearts as we lift them to God together. 

You are invited to share your prayers in the Facebook Live Chat, or on the YouTube Live chat.

Old Testament Lesson: Genesis 32:24-32, NRSV

Jacob was left alone, and a man wrestled with him until daybreak. When the man saw that he did not prevail against Jacob, he struck him on the hip socket, and Jacob’s hip was put out of joint as he wrestled with him. Then he said, “Let me go, for the day is breaking.” But Jacob said, “I will not let you go, unless you bless me.”So he said to him, “What is your name?” And he said, “Jacob.” Then the man said, “You shall no longer be called Jacob, but Israel, for you have striven with God and with humans and have prevailed.” Then Jacob asked him, “Please tell me your name.” But he said, “Why is it that you ask my name?” And there he blessed him. So Jacob called the place Peniel, saying, “For I have seen God face to face, yet my life is preserved.”The sun rose upon him as he passed Penuel, limping because of his hip. Therefore to this day the Israelites do not eat the thigh muscle that is on the hip socket, because he struck Jacob on the hip socket at the thigh muscle.

One: This is the word of God for us, the People of God.
All: Thanks be to God!

Sermon: Come, O Thou Traveler Unknown, Rev. Dr. Mandy McDow, preaching

The Immigrant’s Creed - Rev. Daniel Medina, South Georgia UMC, 2017

I believe in almighty God, who guided his people in exile and exodus, the God of Joseph in Egypt and of Daniel in Babylon, the God of foreigners and immigrants.

I believe in Jesus Christ, a displaced Galilean, who was born away from his people and his home, who had to flee the country with his parents when his life was in danger, and who, upon returning to his own country, had to suffer the oppression of the tyrant Pontius Pilate, the servant of a foreign power. He was persecuted, beaten, and finally tortured, accused and condemned to death unjustly. But on the third day, this scorned Jesus rose from the dead, not as a foreigner but to offer us citizenship in heaven.

I believe in the Holy Spirit, the eternal immigrant from God’s kingdom among us, who speaks all languages, lives in all countries, and reunites all races.

I believe that the Church is the secure home for all foreigners and believers who constitute it, who speak the same language, and have the same purpose.

I believe that the communion of the saints begins when we accept the diversity of the saints. I believe in the forgiveness, which makes us all equal, and in the reconciliation which identifies us more than does race, language or nationality. I believe that in the resurrection, God will unite us as one people in which all are distinct and all are alike at the same time.

I believe in life eternal beyond this world, where no one will be an immigrant or undocumented but all will be citizens of God’s kingdom that has no end. Amen.

- From FIESTA CRISTIANA, a United Methodist resource for Hispanic worship

El Credo del Inmigrante

Creo en Dios todopoderoso, quien guio a su pueblo durante el éxodo y en el exilio, el Dios de José en Egipto y de Daniel en Babilonia, el Dios de los extranjeros y los inmigrantes.

Creo en Jesucristo, el galileo desplazado, que nació lejos de su hogar y de su gente; que tuvo que huir de su país con sus padres porque su vida corría peligro, y cuando regreso del exilio tuvo que sufrir la opresión del tirano Poncio Pilato, servidor de un imperio extranjero; que fue perseguido, injuriado y finalmente torturado; fue acusado y condenado a muerte en un juicio injusto. Sin embargo, al tercer día, ese Jesús despreciado resucitó de la muerte, no como extranjero sino para ofrecernos la ciudadanía de los cielos.

Creo en el Espíritu Santo, el inmigrante eterno del reino de Dios entre nosotros, quien habla todas las lenguas, habita en todos los países y reúne a todas las razas. Creo en la Iglesia como un hogar seguro para todo extranjero y creyente que la forman, quienes hablan un mismo idioma y tienen el mismo propósito.

Creo que la comunión de los santos comienza cuando aceptamos la diversidad de los santos. Creo en el perdón que nos hace a todos iguales, y en la reconciliación que nos identifica mucho más que la raza, el idioma o la nacionalidad. Creo que Dios, en la resurrección, nos reúne a todos como a un solo pueblo en el que todos somos distintos pero iguales al mismo tiempo.

Creo en la vida eterna más allá de este mundo, en la cual nadie será inmigrante o indocumentado sino todos ciudadanos del reino de Dios que no tendrá fin.

- Tomado de Fiesta Cristiana, un recurso de la Iglesia Metodista Unida para la adoración

Rev. Daniel Medina serves as pastor of Nueva Vida United Methodist Church in Macon, GA and associate director of Connectional Ministries for Hispanic Ministries.

HOLY COMMUNION

All are welcome to come forward to be  anointed individually.
If you like, you may come as an individual, or with your spouse or partner, children, or with friends and family of choice. All are welcomed. All are loved. 

Invitation to the Table: As we understand the Body of Christ to be inclusive, we understand God’s table of grace and fellowship can extend into our homes. As you’re able, bring your own elements to this time.

Bread, Juice, Coffee, Muffins… the Body of Christ is comprised of wonder and mystery. Today, we celebrate that God can reach us where we are, even if we are not together.

The Great Mystery of our Faith
All: Christ has died
Christ is risen. 
Christ will come again.

The Lord’s Prayer
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name, 
thy kingdom come, thy will be done, 
on earth as it is in heaven. 

Give us this day our daily bread. 
And forgive us our trespasses, 
as we forgive those who trespass against us. 

And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. 

For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, 
for ever and ever. Amen.

MUSIC: Moving Forward - Israel Houghton - El Dorado

Benediction

And remember:
God is with you,
God is for you, 
God refuses to be God without you. 
And may all of God’s people say: Amen!

Donate

⏰ NEW WORSHIP TIME - 9:30 AM PT ⏰ - Order of Worship for June 22, 2025: And Are We Yet Alive?

Call to Worship - Those of you joining us from home are invited to light a candle to welcome the presence of the Holy Spirit

And Are We Yet Alive - Charles Wesley, 1749- El Dorado

Welcome - Stephen Folds

Called Me Higher - All Sons and Daughters - El Dorado

Good, Good Father - El Dorado

Passing of the Peace: Through the act of passing the peace of Christ, we offer our sincere desire to love our neighbor.
You are invited to greet one another in the live stream chat on Instagram, YouTube, and Facebook. 

On June 13, Israel launched illegal and unprovoked attacks on Iran, with Iran retaliating with ballistic missile strikes and drone attacks on Israel. This represents an unprecedented escalation, with hundreds of civilians killed and residential buildings and civilian infrastructure destroyed. The U.S. did not take part in the attacks but has provided support in weapons to Israel.

We call on the U.S. to commit to no direct military engagement and instead engage in direct diplomacy with Iran.

Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA), Representative Thomas Massie (R-KY), and Representative Ro Khanna (D-CA) have introduced War Powers Resolutions which would clarify there is no authorization for the U.S. to enter the war. Congress must assert their constitutional authority and resist U.S. involvement in another endless war in the Middle East.

Furthermore, the Israeli strikes were timed to derail negotiations on Iran’s nuclear program. The only way forward for the U.S. is to de-escalate, prioritize diplomacy, stop weapons to Israel, and refrain from direct involvement in the conflict.

As United Methodists, “We reject the use of war as an instrument of foreign policy and insist that every peaceful and diplomatic means of resolution be exhausted before the start of armed conflicts.” Social Principles, Political Community, Government Responsibilities, F., War and Military Service

This latest escalation is happening in the context of a year and a half of Israeli bombing of Gaza as well as Israeli attacks on Yemen, Lebanon, and Syria. War is never in the interests of anyone around the world.

We as people of faith must call on our elected officials to oppose war and support diplomacy. Contact your Senators and Representatives today ask them to support the Iran War Powers Resolution.

June 25: Chapters 27 and 28
July 2: Chapters 29 and 30
July 9: Chapter 31
July 16: Chapter 32 - in person at Center Pointe Villas  in Norwalk

Know Your Rights:

You have constitutional rights:

• DO NOT OPEN THE DOOR if an immigration agent is knocking on the door.

• DO NOT ANSWER ANY QUESTIONS from an immigration agent if they try to talk to you. You have the right to remain silent.

• DO NOT SIGN ANYTHING without first speaking to a lawyer. You have the right to speak with a lawyer.

• If you are outside of your home, ask the agent if you are free to leave and if they say yes, leave calmly.

• GIVE THIS CARD TO THE AGENT. If you are inside of your home, show the card through the window or slide it under the door.

I do not wish to speak with you, answer your questions, or sign or hand you any documents based on my 5th Amendment rights under the United States Constitution.

I do not give you permission to enter my home based on my 4th Amendment rights under the United States Constitution unless you have a warrant to enter, signed by a judge or magistrate with my name on it that you slide under the door.

I do not give you permission to search any of my belongings based on my 4th Amendment rights.

I choose to exercise my constitutional rights.

These cards are available to citizens and noncitizens alike.

CALL TO PRAYER: Spirit of the Living God- El Dorado

Joys and Concerns: Prayers of the People We believe that the best way to bear our burdens is to share them with one another. You welcome to share your joys and concerns so that our community can hold these things in our hearts as we lift them to God together. 

You are invited to share your prayers in the Facebook Live Chat, or on the YouTube Live chat.

New Testament Lesson: Galatians 3:23-29, NRSV.

Now before faith came, we were imprisoned and guarded under the law until faith would be revealed. Therefore the law was our disciplinarian until Christ came, so that we might be reckoned as righteous by faith. But now that faith has come, we are no longer subject to a disciplinarian, for in Christ Jesus you are all children of God through faith. As many of you as were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ. There is no longer Jew or Greek; there is no longer slave or free; there is no longer male and female, for all of you are one in Christ Jesus. And if you belong to Christ, then you are Abraham’s offspring, heirs according to the promise.

One: This is the word of God for us, the People of God.
All: Thanks be to God!

Sermon: And Are We Yet Alive, Rev. Dr. Mandy McDow, preaching

The Immigrant’s Creed - Rev. Daniel Medina, South Georgia UMC, 2017

I believe in almighty God, who guided his people in exile and exodus, the God of Joseph in Egypt and of Daniel in Babylon, the God of foreigners and immigrants.

I believe in Jesus Christ, a displaced Galilean, who was born away from his people and his home, who had to flee the country with his parents when his life was in danger, and who, upon returning to his own country, had to suffer the oppression of the tyrant Pontius Pilate, the servant of a foreign power. He was persecuted, beaten, and finally tortured, accused and condemned to death unjustly. But on the third day, this scorned Jesus rose from the dead, not as a foreigner but to offer us citizenship in heaven.

I believe in the Holy Spirit, the eternal immigrant from God’s kingdom among us, who speaks all languages, lives in all countries, and reunites all races.

I believe that the Church is the secure home for all foreigners and believers who constitute it, who speak the same language, and have the same purpose.

I believe that the communion of the saints begins when we accept the diversity of the saints. I believe in the forgiveness, which makes us all equal, and in the reconciliation which identifies us more than does race, language or nationality. I believe that in the resurrection, God will unite us as one people in which all are distinct and all are alike at the same time.

I believe in life eternal beyond this world, where no one will be an immigrant or undocumented but all will be citizens of God’s kingdom that has no end. Amen.

- From FIESTA CRISTIANA, a United Methodist resource for Hispanic worship

El Credo del Inmigrante

Creo en Dios todopoderoso, quien guio a su pueblo durante el éxodo y en el exilio, el Dios de José en Egipto y de Daniel en Babilonia, el Dios de los extranjeros y los inmigrantes.

Creo en Jesucristo, el galileo desplazado, que nació lejos de su hogar y de su gente; que tuvo que huir de su país con sus padres porque su vida corría peligro, y cuando regreso del exilio tuvo que sufrir la opresión del tirano Poncio Pilato, servidor de un imperio extranjero; que fue perseguido, injuriado y finalmente torturado; fue acusado y condenado a muerte en un juicio injusto. Sin embargo, al tercer día, ese Jesús despreciado resucitó de la muerte, no como extranjero sino para ofrecernos la ciudadanía de los cielos.

Creo en el Espíritu Santo, el inmigrante eterno del reino de Dios entre nosotros, quien habla todas las lenguas, habita en todos los países y reúne a todas las razas. Creo en la Iglesia como un hogar seguro para todo extranjero y creyente que la forman, quienes hablan un mismo idioma y tienen el mismo propósito.

Creo que la comunión de los santos comienza cuando aceptamos la diversidad de los santos. Creo en el perdón que nos hace a todos iguales, y en la reconciliación que nos identifica mucho más que la raza, el idioma o la nacionalidad. Creo que Dios, en la resurrección, nos reúne a todos como a un solo pueblo en el que todos somos distintos pero iguales al mismo tiempo.

Creo en la vida eterna más allá de este mundo, en la cual nadie será inmigrante o indocumentado sino todos ciudadanos del reino de Dios que no tendrá fin.

- Tomado de Fiesta Cristiana, un recurso de la Iglesia Metodista Unida para la adoración

Rev. Daniel Medina serves as pastor of Nueva Vida United Methodist Church in Macon, GA and associate director of Connectional Ministries for Hispanic Ministries.

HOLY COMMUNION

All are welcome to come forward to be  anointed individually.
If you like, you may come as an individual, or with your spouse or partner, children, or with friends and family of choice. All are welcomed. All are loved. 

Invitation to the Table: As we understand the Body of Christ to be inclusive, we understand God’s table of grace and fellowship can extend into our homes. As you’re able, bring your own elements to this time.

Bread, Juice, Coffee, Muffins… the Body of Christ is comprised of wonder and mystery. Today, we celebrate that God can reach us where we are, even if we are not together.

The Great Mystery of our Faith
All: Christ has died
Christ is risen. 
Christ will come again.

The Lord’s Prayer
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name, 
thy kingdom come, thy will be done, 
on earth as it is in heaven. 

Give us this day our daily bread. 
And forgive us our trespasses, 
as we forgive those who trespass against us. 

And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. 

For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, 
for ever and ever. Amen.

MUSIC: God Only Knows - El Dorado

Benediction

And remember:
God is with you,
God is for you, 
God refuses to be God without you. 
And may all of God’s people say: Amen!

Donate

⏰ NEW WORSHIP TIME - 9:30 AM PT ⏰ - Order of Worship for June 15, 2025: Peace with Justice Sunday

Call to Worship - Those of you joining us from home are invited to light a candle to welcome the presence of the Holy Spirit

Good, Good Father - El Dorado

Welcome - Stephen Folds

O For a Thousand Tongues to Sing - Charles Wesley, 1739 - El Dorado

Passing of the Peace: Through the act of passing the peace of Christ, we offer our sincere desire to love our neighbor.
You are invited to greet one another in the live stream chat on Instagram, YouTube, and Facebook. 

NO CLASS THIS WEDNESDAY! Class will resume June 18

Statement for Los Angeles on the Care of Immigrants

June 7, 2025

This week I’ve been paying attention to the places across our city, state, and country where our immigrant neighbors are being detained. I’ve seen reports of ICE going into neighborhoods, court buildings, stores, and schools, and separating families. Have you, too, heard the children’s cries for “mama”, or the mother’s cries for her children as she is forced into a van? These are my people, for I too come from an immigrant family. And I am brokenhearted by what I see.

The immigrants targeted are not criminals, but people who showed up for court because they have been following the laws, people who went to work, children who went to school. Immigrants are people who work hard at being citizens of the heart and they make the USA and our state a better place.

As we have been working together to protect, to show up, and to get our voices heard, there is both a sense of hopelessness and courage. And in the struggle, en la lucha, I thought of this scripture from Psalm 34:17-18:

The Lord hears his people when they call to him for help.
He rescues them from all their troubles.
The Lord is close to the brokenhearted;
He rescues those who are crushed in spirit.

Tonight, I am calling on all Christ-following people, and on all tenderhearted people, to stand with those who are being ripped apart from their families. Speak to your politicians. March in peaceful protest. While you are there, make sure everyone is safe and responds in peace. Be witnesses on the streets so that the horror does not happen under cover. Pray for those whose cries you hear. Pray for the ICE agents to lay down their weapons. Pray for the leaders of our world, asking that they would seek peace above all. Pray for justice to prevail, because we all know that without justice, there is no peace. Attend prayer vigils. Hold one in your church or your neighborhood. Act, pray, and rise up where you see injustice and harm.

And tonight, I am calling for those in power to remove their weapons of warfare from our loving neighborhoods, our peaceful cities, and our welcoming states. Use your power for good, and not for evil. Protect those who suffer, including the immigrant brothers, sisters, and neighbors among us. Use your time and your expertise to pass laws to correct the unjust system we have inherited. Stop the harm that comes from our own governmental system. Do good. Do no harm. Stay in love with the people you work for.

The Psalm above reminds us that God hears us when we are crying out for help. God draws close to those whose hearts have been broken. God works with us to protect those who need help from those who do harm.

We are not alone. God is with us. I am praying for all of us as we respond to hate with love, to violence with loud cries, and to harmful deeds with acts of justice. Together, and with God’s help, we can have courage in even moments like these.

Grace y paz,
Bishop Dottie Escobedo-Frank
Resident Bishop of the Los Angeles Area
The United Methodist Church

Know Your Rights:

You have constitutional rights:

• DO NOT OPEN THE DOOR if an immigration agent is knocking on the door.

• DO NOT ANSWER ANY QUESTIONS from an immigration agent if they try to talk to you. You have the right to remain silent.

• DO NOT SIGN ANYTHING without first speaking to a lawyer. You have the right to speak with a lawyer.

• If you are outside of your home, ask the agent if you are free to leave and if they say yes, leave calmly.

• GIVE THIS CARD TO THE AGENT. If you are inside of your home, show the card through the window or slide it under the door.

I do not wish to speak with you, answer your questions, or sign or hand you any documents based on my 5th Amendment rights under the United States Constitution.

I do not give you permission to enter my home based on my 4th Amendment rights under the United States Constitution unless you have a warrant to enter, signed by a judge or magistrate with my name on it that you slide under the door.

I do not give you permission to search any of my belongings based on my 4th Amendment rights.

I choose to exercise my constitutional rights.

These cards are available to citizens and noncitizens alike.

CALL TO PRAYER: Holy, Holy, Holy, Lord God Almighty- El Dorado

Joys and Concerns: Prayers of the People We believe that the best way to bear our burdens is to share them with one another. You welcome to share your joys and concerns so that our community can hold these things in our hearts as we lift them to God together. 

You are invited to share your prayers in the Facebook Live Chat, or on the YouTube Live chat.

Old Testament Lesson: Psalm 35:28, NRSV

Then my tongue shall tell of your righteousness
    and of your praise all day long.

New Testament Lesson: Romans 5:1-5, NRSV

Therefore, since we are justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have obtained access to this grace in which we stand, and weboast in our hope of sharing the glory of God. And not only that, but we also boast in our afflictions, knowing that affliction produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, and hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit that has been given to us.

One: This is the word of God for us, the People of God.
All: Thanks be to God!

Sermon: O For a Thousand Tongues to Sing, Rev. Dr. Mandy McDow, preaching

The Immigrant’s Creed - Rev. Daniel Medina, South Georgia UMC, 2017

I believe in almighty God, who guided his people in exile and exodus, the God of Joseph in Egypt and of Daniel in Babylon, the God of foreigners and immigrants.

I believe in Jesus Christ, a displaced Galilean, who was born away from his people and his home, who had to flee the country with his parents when his life was in danger, and who, upon returning to his own country, had to suffer the oppression of the tyrant Pontius Pilate, the servant of a foreign power. He was persecuted, beaten, and finally tortured, accused and condemned to death unjustly. But on the third day, this scorned Jesus rose from the dead, not as a foreigner but to offer us citizenship in heaven.

I believe in the Holy Spirit, the eternal immigrant from God’s kingdom among us, who speaks all languages, lives in all countries, and reunites all races.

I believe that the Church is the secure home for all foreigners and believers who constitute it, who speak the same language, and have the same purpose.

I believe that the communion of the saints begins when we accept the diversity of the saints. I believe in the forgiveness, which makes us all equal, and in the reconciliation which identifies us more than does race, language or nationality. I believe that in the resurrection, God will unite us as one people in which all are distinct and all are alike at the same time.

I believe in life eternal beyond this world, where no one will be an immigrant or undocumented but all will be citizens of God’s kingdom that has no end. Amen.

- From FIESTA CRISTIANA, a United Methodist resource for Hispanic worship

El Credo del Inmigrante

Creo en Dios todopoderoso, quien guio a su pueblo durante el éxodo y en el exilio, el Dios de José en Egipto y de Daniel en Babilonia, el Dios de los extranjeros y los inmigrantes.

Creo en Jesucristo, el galileo desplazado, que nació lejos de su hogar y de su gente; que tuvo que huir de su país con sus padres porque su vida corría peligro, y cuando regreso del exilio tuvo que sufrir la opresión del tirano Poncio Pilato, servidor de un imperio extranjero; que fue perseguido, injuriado y finalmente torturado; fue acusado y condenado a muerte en un juicio injusto. Sin embargo, al tercer día, ese Jesús despreciado resucitó de la muerte, no como extranjero sino para ofrecernos la ciudadanía de los cielos.

Creo en el Espíritu Santo, el inmigrante eterno del reino de Dios entre nosotros, quien habla todas las lenguas, habita en todos los países y reúne a todas las razas. Creo en la Iglesia como un hogar seguro para todo extranjero y creyente que la forman, quienes hablan un mismo idioma y tienen el mismo propósito.

Creo que la comunión de los santos comienza cuando aceptamos la diversidad de los santos. Creo en el perdón que nos hace a todos iguales, y en la reconciliación que nos identifica mucho más que la raza, el idioma o la nacionalidad. Creo que Dios, en la resurrección, nos reúne a todos como a un solo pueblo en el que todos somos distintos pero iguales al mismo tiempo.

Creo en la vida eterna más allá de este mundo, en la cual nadie será inmigrante o indocumentado sino todos ciudadanos del reino de Dios que no tendrá fin.

- Tomado de Fiesta Cristiana, un recurso de la Iglesia Metodista Unida para la adoración

Rev. Daniel Medina serves as pastor of Nueva Vida United Methodist Church in Macon, GA and associate director of Connectional Ministries for Hispanic Ministries.

HOLY COMMUNION

All are welcome to come forward to be  anointed individually.
If you like, you may come as an individual, or with your spouse or partner, children, or with friends and family of choice. All are welcomed. All are loved. 

Invitation to the Table: As we understand the Body of Christ to be inclusive, we understand God’s table of grace and fellowship can extend into our homes. As you’re able, bring your own elements to this time.

Bread, Juice, Coffee, Muffins… the Body of Christ is comprised of wonder and mystery. Today, we celebrate that God can reach us where we are, even if we are not together.

The Great Mystery of our Faith
All: Christ has died
Christ is risen. 
Christ will come again.

The Lord’s Prayer
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name, 
thy kingdom come, thy will be done, 
on earth as it is in heaven. 

Give us this day our daily bread. 
And forgive us our trespasses, 
as we forgive those who trespass against us. 

And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. 

For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, 
for ever and ever. Amen.

MUSIC: Because He Lives (Amen) - El Dorado

Benediction

And remember:
God is with you,
God is for you, 
God refuses to be God without you. 
And may all of God’s people say: Amen!

Donate

Order of Worship for June 8, 2025: Pentecost Sunday - I Will Pour out My Spirit on All People

Call to Worship - Those of you joining us from home are invited to light a candle to welcome the presence of the Holy Spirit

How Great Thou Art - El Dorado

Good People - El Dorado

Welcome - Stephen Folds

Break Me Out - El Dorado

Passing of the Peace: Through the act of passing the peace of Christ, we offer our sincere desire to love our neighbor.
You are invited to greet one another in the live stream chat on Instagram, YouTube, and Facebook. 

NO CLASS THIS WEDNESDAY! Class will resume June 18

Statement for Los Angeles on the Care of Immigrants

June 7, 2025

This week I’ve been paying attention to the places across our city, state, and country where our immigrant neighbors are being detained. I’ve seen reports of ICE going into neighborhoods, court buildings, stores, and schools, and separating families. Have you, too, heard the children’s cries for “mama”, or the mother’s cries for her children as she is forced into a van? These are my people, for I too come from an immigrant family. And I am brokenhearted by what I see.

The immigrants targeted are not criminals, but people who showed up for court because they have been following the laws, people who went to work, children who went to school. Immigrants are people who work hard at being citizens of the heart and they make the USA and our state a better place.

As we have been working together to protect, to show up, and to get our voices heard, there is both a sense of hopelessness and courage. And in the struggle, en la lucha, I thought of this scripture from Psalm 34:17-18:

The Lord hears his people when they call to him for help.
He rescues them from all their troubles.
The Lord is close to the brokenhearted;
He rescues those who are crushed in spirit.

Tonight, I am calling on all Christ-following people, and on all tenderhearted people, to stand with those who are being ripped apart from their families. Speak to your politicians. March in peaceful protest. While you are there, make sure everyone is safe and responds in peace. Be witnesses on the streets so that the horror does not happen under cover. Pray for those whose cries you hear. Pray for the ICE agents to lay down their weapons. Pray for the leaders of our world, asking that they would seek peace above all. Pray for justice to prevail, because we all know that without justice, there is no peace. Attend prayer vigils. Hold one in your church or your neighborhood. Act, pray, and rise up where you see injustice and harm.

And tonight, I am calling for those in power to remove their weapons of warfare from our loving neighborhoods, our peaceful cities, and our welcoming states. Use your power for good, and not for evil. Protect those who suffer, including the immigrant brothers, sisters, and neighbors among us. Use your time and your expertise to pass laws to correct the unjust system we have inherited. Stop the harm that comes from our own governmental system. Do good. Do no harm. Stay in love with the people you work for.

The Psalm above reminds us that God hears us when we are crying out for help. God draws close to those whose hearts have been broken. God works with us to protect those who need help from those who do harm.

We are not alone. God is with us. I am praying for all of us as we respond to hate with love, to violence with loud cries, and to harmful deeds with acts of justice. Together, and with God’s help, we can have courage in even moments like these.

Grace y paz,
Bishop Dottie Escobedo-Frank
Resident Bishop of the Los Angeles Area
The United Methodist Church

Know Your Rights:

You have constitutional rights:

• DO NOT OPEN THE DOOR if an immigration agent is knocking on the door.

• DO NOT ANSWER ANY QUESTIONS from an immigration agent if they try to talk to you. You have the right to remain silent.

• DO NOT SIGN ANYTHING without first speaking to a lawyer. You have the right to speak with a lawyer.

• If you are outside of your home, ask the agent if you are free to leave and if they say yes, leave calmly.

• GIVE THIS CARD TO THE AGENT. If you are inside of your home, show the card through the window or slide it under the door.

I do not wish to speak with you, answer your questions, or sign or hand you any documents based on my 5th Amendment rights under the United States Constitution.

I do not give you permission to enter my home based on my 4th Amendment rights under the United States Constitution unless you have a warrant to enter, signed by a judge or magistrate with my name on it that you slide under the door.

I do not give you permission to search any of my belongings based on my 4th Amendment rights.

I choose to exercise my constitutional rights.

These cards are available to citizens and noncitizens alike.

CALL TO PRAYER: Spirit of the Living God - Matt Maher - El Dorado

Joys and Concerns: Prayers of the People We believe that the best way to bear our burdens is to share them with one another. You welcome to share your joys and concerns so that our community can hold these things in our hearts as we lift them to God together. 

You are invited to share your prayers in the Facebook Live Chat, or on the YouTube Live chat.

Gospel Reading: John 14:8-17 (25-27)

Philip said to him, “Lord, show us the Father, and we will be satisfied.” Jesus said to him, “Have I been with you all this time, Philip, and you still do not know me? Whoever has seen me has seen the Father. How can you say, ‘Show us the Father’? Do you not believe that I am in the Father and the Father is in me? The words that I say to you I do not speak on my own, but the Father who dwells in me does his works.Believe me that I am in the Father and the Father is in me, but if you do not, then believe because of the works themselves.Very truly, I tell you, the one who believes in me will also do the works that I do and, in fact, will do greater works than these, because I am going to the Father. I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If in my name you ask me for anything, I will do it.

“If you love me, you will keep my commandments. And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Advocate, to be with you forever. This is the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive because it neither sees him nor knows him. You know him because he abides with you, and he will be in you.

New Testament Lesson: Acts 2:1-21, NRSV

When the day of Pentecost had come, they were all together in one place. And suddenly from heaven there came a sound like the rush of a violent wind, and it filled the entire house where they were sitting. Divided tongues, as of fire, appeared among them, and a tongue rested on each of them. All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other languages, as the Spirit gave them ability.

Now there were devout Jews from every people under heaven living in Jerusalem. And at this sound the crowd gathered and was bewildered, because each one heard them speaking in the native language of each. Amazed and astonished, they asked, “Are not all these who are speaking Galileans? And how is it that we hear, each of us, in our own native language? Parthians, Medes, Elamites, and residents of Mesopotamia, Judea and Cappadocia, Pontus and Asia, Phrygia and Pamphylia, Egypt and the parts of Libya belonging to Cyrene, and visitors from Rome, both Jews and proselytes, Cretans and Arabs—in our own languages we hear them speaking about God’s deeds of power.” All were amazed and perplexed, saying to one another, “What does this mean?” But others sneered and said, “They are filled with new wine.”

But Peter, standing with the eleven, raised his voice and addressed them, “Fellow Jews and all who live in Jerusalem, let this be known to you, and listen to what I say. Indeed, these are not drunk, as you suppose, for it is only nine o’clock in the morning. No, this is what was spoken through the prophet Joel:

‘In the last days it will be, God declares,
that I will pour out my Spirit upon all flesh,
    and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy,
and your young men shall see visions,
    and your old men shall dream dreams.
Even upon my slaves, both men and women,
    in those days I will pour out my Spirit,
        and they shall prophesy.
And I will show portents in the heaven above
    and signs on the earth below,
        blood, and fire, and smoky mist.
The sun shall be turned to darkness
    and the moon to blood,
        before the coming of the Lord’s great and glorious day.
Then everyone who calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved.’

One: This is the word of God for us, the People of God.
All: Thanks be to God!

Sermon: You Are Witnesses of These Things, Rev. Dr. Mandy McDow, preaching

HOLY COMMUNION

All are welcome to come forward to be  anointed individually.
If you like, you may come as an individual, or with your spouse or partner, children, or with friends and family of choice. All are welcomed. All are loved. 

Invitation to the Table: As we understand the Body of Christ to be inclusive, we understand God’s table of grace and fellowship can extend into our homes. As you’re able, bring your own elements to this time.

Bread, Juice, Coffee, Muffins… the Body of Christ is comprised of wonder and mystery. Today, we celebrate that God can reach us where we are, even if we are not together.

The Great Mystery of our Faith
All: Christ has died
Christ is risen. 
Christ will come again.

The Lord’s Prayer
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name, 
thy kingdom come, thy will be done, 
on earth as it is in heaven. 

Give us this day our daily bread. 
And forgive us our trespasses, 
as we forgive those who trespass against us. 

And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. 

For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, 
for ever and ever. Amen.

MUSIC: Firm Foundation - El Dorado

Benediction

And remember:
God is with you,
God is for you, 
God refuses to be God without you. 
And may all of God’s people say: Amen!

Donate

Order of Worship for June 1, 2025: Ascension Sunday - You Are Witnesses of These Things!

Call to Worship - Those of you joining us from home are invited to light a candle to welcome the presence of the Holy Spirit

It’s About Time -The Reviers- El Dorado

Welcome - Stephen Folds

Love Divine All Loves Excelling - Charles Wesley - El Dorado

Passing of the Peace: Through the act of passing the peace of Christ, we offer our sincere desire to love our neighbor.
You are invited to greet one another in the live stream chat on Instagram, YouTube, and Facebook. 

Know Your Rights:

You have constitutional rights:

• DO NOT OPEN THE DOOR if an immigration agent is knocking on the door.

• DO NOT ANSWER ANY QUESTIONS from an immigration agent if they try to talk to you. You have the right to remain silent.

• DO NOT SIGN ANYTHING without first speaking to a lawyer. You have the right to speak with a lawyer.

• If you are outside of your home, ask the agent if you are free to leave and if they say yes, leave calmly.

• GIVE THIS CARD TO THE AGENT. If you are inside of your home, show the card through the window or slide it under the door.

I do not wish to speak with you, answer your questions, or sign or hand you any documents based on my 5th Amendment rights under the United States Constitution.

I do not give you permission to enter my home based on my 4th Amendment rights under the United States Constitution unless you have a warrant to enter, signed by a judge or magistrate with my name on it that you slide under the door.

I do not give you permission to search any of my belongings based on my 4th Amendment rights.

I choose to exercise my constitutional rights.

These cards are available to citizens and noncitizens alike.

CALL TO PRAYER: Because He Lives (Amen) - Matt Maher - El Dorado

Joys and Concerns: Prayers of the People We believe that the best way to bear our burdens is to share them with one another. You welcome to share your joys and concerns so that our community can hold these things in our hearts as we lift them to God together. 

You are invited to share your prayers in the Facebook Live Chat, or on the YouTube Live chat.

Gospel Reading: Luke 24:44-53, NRSV - The New Commandment

When he had gone out, Jesus said, “Now the Son of Man has been glorified, and God has been glorified in him.  If God has been glorified in him,[a] God will also glorify him in himself and will glorify him at once.  Little children, I am with you only a little longer. You will look for me, and as I said to the Jews so now I say to you, ‘Where I am going, you cannot come.’  I give you a new commandment, that you love one another. Just as I have loved you, you also should love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.”

New Testament Lesson: Acts 1:1-11, NRSV

In the first book, Theophilus, I wrote about all that Jesus began to do and teach until the day when he was taken up to heaven, after giving instructions through the Holy Spirit to the apostles whom he had chosen.  After his suffering, he presented himself alive to them by many convincing proofs, appearing to them during forty days and speaking about the kingdom of God. While staying with them, he ordered them not to leave Jerusalem but to wait there for the promise of the Father. “This,” he said, “is what you have heard from me; for John baptized with water, but you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit not many days from now.”

The Ascension of Jesus

So when they had come together, they asked him, “Lord, is this the time when you will restore the kingdom to Israel?” He replied, “It is not for you to know the times or periods that the Father has set by his own authority.  But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”  When he had said this, as they were watching, he was lifted up, and a cloud took him out of their sight. While he was going and they were gazing up toward heaven, suddenly two men in white robes stood by them. They said, “Men of Galilee, why do you stand looking up toward heaven? This Jesus, who has been taken up from you into heaven, will come in the same way as you saw him go into heaven.”

One: This is the word of God for us, the People of God.
All: Thanks be to God!

Sermon: You Are Witnesses of These Things, Rev. Dr. Mandy McDow, preaching

HOLY COMMUNION

All are welcome to come forward to be  anointed individually.
If you like, you may come as an individual, or with your spouse or partner, children, or with friends and family of choice. All are welcomed. All are loved. 

Invitation to the Table: As we understand the Body of Christ to be inclusive, we understand God’s table of grace and fellowship can extend into our homes. As you’re able, bring your own elements to this time.

Bread, Juice, Coffee, Muffins… the Body of Christ is comprised of wonder and mystery. Today, we celebrate that God can reach us where we are, even if we are not together.

The Great Mystery of our Faith
All: Christ has died
Christ is risen. 
Christ will come again.

The Lord’s Prayer
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name, 
thy kingdom come, thy will be done, 
on earth as it is in heaven. 

Give us this day our daily bread. 
And forgive us our trespasses, 
as we forgive those who trespass against us. 

And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. 

For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, 
for ever and ever. Amen.

MUSIC: O For a Thousand Tongues to Sing - Charles Wesley - El Dorado

Benediction

And remember:
God is with you,
God is for you, 
God refuses to be God without you. 
And may all of God’s people say: Amen!

Donate

Order of Worship for May 18, 2025: Heritage Sunday - So Shall You Love One Another

Call to Worship - Those of you joining us from home are invited to light a candle to welcome the presence of the Holy Spirit

O For a Thousand Tongues to Sing -Charles Wesley - El Dorado

Welcome - Stephen Folds

Love Divine, All Loves Excelling - Charles Wesley - El Dorado

Passing of the Peace: Through the act of passing the peace of Christ, we offer our sincere desire to love our neighbor.
You are invited to greet one another in the live stream chat on Instagram, YouTube, and Facebook. 

Preparing for AC2025: Cal-Pac Learning Labs

This month, we will host four sessions to help you prepare for this year’s Annual Conference Session:

  1. May 5, 6:30 pm PDT (3:30 pm HST): Introduction to MeetingPulse: This Monday, we’ll introduce you to our new meeting application that we’ll use for our sessions, bringing our hybrid experience and voting process into one easy-to-use platform on your device, whether it’s desktop, mobile, or tablet. Meeting links are sent directly to those who have completed registration for AC2025. 

  2. May 12, 6:30 pm PDT (3:30 pm HST): All About AC2025: This week, we’ll cover everything you need to know to register for and attend Annual Conference 2025. This session is designed for those who may be new to Cal-Pac or attending their first Annual Conference Session as a voting member. No registration needed - join the meeting at this link!

  3. May 19, 6:30 pm PDT (3:30 pm HST): Understanding Constitutional Amendments: Co-hosted with the other Western Jurisdiction conferences, learn about the four proposed amendments to our United Methodist Constitution. Register for this session now!

  4. May 20, 6:30 pm PDT (3:30 pm HST): Financial Matters: Apportionments and Budget: All are invited to attend this presentation of a proposed change to our apportionment system, and our 2026 budget, led by the Council on Finance and Administration, along with the Connectional Table, our Cabinet, and Connectional Ministries. Both of these proposals will be voted on at the 2025 Annual Conference. This learning lab will be especially relevant for Clergy and Lay Members of the Annual Conference, as well as those interested in local church finances and the Conference budget. Register now!

Know Your Rights:

You have constitutional rights:

• DO NOT OPEN THE DOOR if an immigration agent is knocking on the door.

• DO NOT ANSWER ANY QUESTIONS from an immigration agent if they try to talk to you. You have the right to remain silent.

• DO NOT SIGN ANYTHING without first speaking to a lawyer. You have the right to speak with a lawyer.

• If you are outside of your home, ask the agent if you are free to leave and if they say yes, leave calmly.

• GIVE THIS CARD TO THE AGENT. If you are inside of your home, show the card through the window or slide it under the door.

I do not wish to speak with you, answer your questions, or sign or hand you any documents based on my 5th Amendment rights under the United States Constitution.

I do not give you permission to enter my home based on my 4th Amendment rights under the United States Constitution unless you have a warrant to enter, signed by a judge or magistrate with my name on it that you slide under the door.

I do not give you permission to search any of my belongings based on my 4th Amendment rights.

I choose to exercise my constitutional rights.

These cards are available to citizens and noncitizens alike.

CALL TO PRAYER: Paradoxically- El Dorado

Joys and Concerns: Prayers of the People We believe that the best way to bear our burdens is to share them with one another. You welcome to share your joys and concerns so that our community can hold these things in our hearts as we lift them to God together. 

You are invited to share your prayers in the Facebook Live Chat, or on the YouTube Live chat.

Gospel Reading: John 13:31-35, NRSV - The New Commandment

When he had gone out, Jesus said, “Now the Son of Man has been glorified, and God has been glorified in him.  If God has been glorified in him,[a] God will also glorify him in himself and will glorify him at once.  Little children, I am with you only a little longer. You will look for me, and as I said to the Jews so now I say to you, ‘Where I am going, you cannot come.’  I give you a new commandment, that you love one another. Just as I have loved you, you also should love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.”

Epistle Lesson: Ephesians 2:8-9, NRSV

For by grace you have been saved through faith, and this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God—  not the result of works, so that no one may boast.

One: This is the word of God for us, the People of God.
All: Thanks be to God!

Sermon: So Shall You Love One Another, Rev. Dr. Mandy McDow, preaching

HOLY COMMUNION

All are welcome to come forward to be  anointed individually.
If you like, you may come as an individual, or with your spouse or partner, children, or with friends and family of choice. All are welcomed. All are loved. 

Invitation to the Table: As we understand the Body of Christ to be inclusive, we understand God’s table of grace and fellowship can extend into our homes. As you’re able, bring your own elements to this time.

Bread, Juice, Coffee, Muffins… the Body of Christ is comprised of wonder and mystery. Today, we celebrate that God can reach us where we are, even if we are not together.

The Great Mystery of our Faith
All: Christ has died
Christ is risen. 
Christ will come again.

The Lord’s Prayer
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name, 
thy kingdom come, thy will be done, 
on earth as it is in heaven. 

Give us this day our daily bread. 
And forgive us our trespasses, 
as we forgive those who trespass against us. 

And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. 

For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, 
for ever and ever. Amen.

MUSIC: Because He Lives (Amen)- El Dorado

Benediction

And remember:
God is with you,
God is for you, 
God refuses to be God without you. 
And may all of God’s people say: Amen!

Donate

Order of Worship for May 11, 2025: Festival of the Christian Home/Mother's Day

Call to Worship - Those of you joining us from home are invited to light a candle to welcome the presence of the Holy Spirit

Faith of Our Mothers - El Dorado + the United Women in Faith Chorus

Welcome - Stephen Folds

Praise - El Dorado

Passing of the Peace: Through the act of passing the peace of Christ, we offer our sincere desire to love our neighbor.
You are invited to greet one another in the live stream chat on Instagram, YouTube, and Facebook. 

Preparing for AC2025: Cal-Pac Learning Labs

This month, we will host four sessions to help you prepare for this year’s Annual Conference Session:

  1. May 5, 6:30 pm PDT (3:30 pm HST): Introduction to MeetingPulse: This Monday, we’ll introduce you to our new meeting application that we’ll use for our sessions, bringing our hybrid experience and voting process into one easy-to-use platform on your device, whether it’s desktop, mobile, or tablet. Meeting links are sent directly to those who have completed registration for AC2025. 

  2. May 12, 6:30 pm PDT (3:30 pm HST): All About AC2025: This week, we’ll cover everything you need to know to register for and attend Annual Conference 2025. This session is designed for those who may be new to Cal-Pac or attending their first Annual Conference Session as a voting member. No registration needed - join the meeting at this link!

  3. May 19, 6:30 pm PDT (3:30 pm HST): Understanding Constitutional Amendments: Co-hosted with the other Western Jurisdiction conferences, learn about the four proposed amendments to our United Methodist Constitution. Register for this session now!

  4. May 20, 6:30 pm PDT (3:30 pm HST): Financial Matters: Apportionments and Budget: All are invited to attend this presentation of a proposed change to our apportionment system, and our 2026 budget, led by the Council on Finance and Administration, along with the Connectional Table, our Cabinet, and Connectional Ministries. Both of these proposals will be voted on at the 2025 Annual Conference. This learning lab will be especially relevant for Clergy and Lay Members of the Annual Conference, as well as those interested in local church finances and the Conference budget. Register now!

Know Your Rights:

You have constitutional rights:

• DO NOT OPEN THE DOOR if an immigration agent is knocking on the door.

• DO NOT ANSWER ANY QUESTIONS from an immigration agent if they try to talk to you. You have the right to remain silent.

• DO NOT SIGN ANYTHING without first speaking to a lawyer. You have the right to speak with a lawyer.

• If you are outside of your home, ask the agent if you are free to leave and if they say yes, leave calmly.

• GIVE THIS CARD TO THE AGENT. If you are inside of your home, show the card through the window or slide it under the door.

I do not wish to speak with you, answer your questions, or sign or hand you any documents based on my 5th Amendment rights under the United States Constitution.

I do not give you permission to enter my home based on my 4th Amendment rights under the United States Constitution unless you have a warrant to enter, signed by a judge or magistrate with my name on it that you slide under the door.

I do not give you permission to search any of my belongings based on my 4th Amendment rights.

I choose to exercise my constitutional rights.

These cards are available to citizens and noncitizens alike.

CALL TO PRAYER: Called Me Higher- El Dorado

Joys and Concerns: Prayers of the People We believe that the best way to bear our burdens is to share them with one another. You welcome to share your joys and concerns so that our community can hold these things in our hearts as we lift them to God together. 

You are invited to share your prayers in the Facebook Live Chat, or on the YouTube Live chat.

Hebrew Bible Reading: Ruth 1:16-17, 4:13-22

But Ruth said,

“Do not press me to leave you,
    to turn back from following you!
Where you go, I will go;
    where you lodge, I will lodge;
your people shall be my people
    and your God my God.
17 Where you die, I will die,
    and there will I be buried.
May the Lord do thus to me,
    and more as well,
if even death parts me from you!”

The Genealogy of David

13 So Boaz took Ruth, and she became his wife. When they came together, the Lord made her conceive, and she bore a son. 14 Then the women said to Naomi, “Blessed be the Lord, who has not left you this day without next-of-kin,[a]and may his name be renowned in Israel! 15 He shall be to you a restorer of life and a nourisher of your old age, for your daughter-in-law who loves you, who is more to you than seven sons, has borne him.” 16 Then Naomi took the child and laid him in her bosom and became his nurse. 17 The women of the neighborhood gave him a name, saying, “A son has been born to Naomi.” They named him Obed; he became the father of Jesse, the father of David.

18 Now these are the descendants of Perez: Perez became the father of Hezron, 19 Hezron of Ram, Ram of Amminadab, 20 Amminadab of Nahshon, Nahshon of Salmon,[b] 21 Salmon of Boaz, Boaz of Obed, 22 Obed of Jesse, and Jesse of David.

One: This is the word of God for us, the People of God.
All: Thanks be to God!

Sermon: The Bounds of Love are Wide in the Christian Home, Rev. Dr. Mandy McDow, preaching

FESTIVAL OF THE CHRISTIAN HOME - BLESSING OF FAMILIES LITURGY

BLESSING OF OUR INDIVIDUAL CREATION       

Fathering God, you have searched us and known us. You know when we lie down and when we rise up; you discern our thoughts from far away.

Mothering God, it was you who formed our inward parts, you who knit us together in our mother’s womb. We praise you, for we are fearfully and wonderfully made!

Holy Son, you have come into the world as the Word made flesh and dwelling among us, as a constant and abiding reminder that God is always with us, even to the ends of the earth. You are the light that has shined in the darkness, and the darkness did not overcome it. 

Creating Spirit: Where can we go that you are not with us? If we ascend to heaven, you are there. If we make our bed in the depths, you are there. If we perceive the darkness overwhelming us, we know that even the darkness is not dark to you; the night is as bright as the day, for darkness is as light to you. You hem us in, behind and before, and lay your hand upon us. When we come to the end, you are still with us. 

Let us pray:

Loving God, in your wisdom you have created us and given us many gifts.  Today, we thank you for all that we mean to each other and to our friends and families.  We thank you for the love that has brought us to this time and place, and for your love which abides to tie us all together. Where you are, O God, there is love. Amen.

BLESSING OF OUR RELATIONSHIPS         

God, in your wisdom and love, you have created us and called us good. You have created us in your image, and blessed us as men and women. Today we celebrate the joy that we have found in relationship with one another. As you have created us and called us good, so have you said that it is not good that we should be alone, so you have given us helpers as partners. You have given us choice in who we build our relationships with, and we are able to say to one another, as Ruth said to Naomi: 

Where you go, I will go; where you lodge, I will lodge;
          Your people shall be my people, and your God, my God. 

Let us pray:

God, your strength is sufficient for us all. We have committed ourselves one to the other in your presence, so we pray that you will continue to be with us in the unfolding of our future.  Give us strength and courage in times of difficulty, wisdom and love in times of opportunity and challenge, and the sharing of joy in times of happiness and success.  May we continue to grow in your love; through the power of Jesus Christ. Amen.

BLESSING OF OUR FRIENDSHIPS AND FAMILIES OF CHOICE                                                                            

Incarnate Christ: You have modeled to us what it is to be in relationship with one another. You have broken bread with the weary, comforted the lonely, healed the sick, and wept with friends. We see in your witness what it means to love one another as God has loved us. We thank you for calling us friends, because you have made known to us everything that you have heard from our Father in heaven. Thank you for sharing in relationship with us as equals, and helping us to continue to love our friends as you have loved us. Bless us as we form relationships with one another that, as we speak, our souls will be bound up in one another, so that we may love our friends as our own souls, just as Jonathan loved David. 

Let us Pray:

God of friends and families, we are linked together in a community of friendship and support.  We pray for one another. We remember those who cannot be with us today. May we all continue to share in your gifts of love, strength, courage and wisdom, and to know your joy.  Give us growing understanding, sympathy with each other's difficulties, patience with each other's faults, and grace to walk in your ways. Amen. 

BLESSING FOR FAMILIES WITH CHILDREN      

Creator Spirit: You have worked in us to make us open to loving one another in selfless and life-giving ways. For some of us this means the responsibility and joy of raising children. For these lives, which have touched us and blessed us, we thank you. Today we bring to you our children in order that they may be blessed as Christ blessed the children of his day saying, “Let the little children come to me; do not stop them; for it is to such as these that the kingdom of God belongs.” And he took them up in his arms and blessed them. Help us to bless them as they have blessed us. 

Let us pray: 

Loving God: We come today carrying children and youth in our hearts – the children we brought into this world, the children we parent, our grandchildren, nieces, nephews, Godchildren, mentees, the children we care for in our work, and the children we speak out for in our witness. Lord, help us not to be so preoccupied with our purposes that we fail to hear their voices or see their special vision of truth. Keep us with them, ready to listen and to love even as you have loved us, your grown-up and sometimes wayward children. Amen. 

HOLY COMMUNION

INVITATION TO ANOINTING

All are welcome to come forward to be  anointed individually.
If you like, you may come as an individual, or with your spouse or partner, children, or with friends and family of choice. All are welcomed. All are loved. 

Invitation to the Table: As we understand the Body of Christ to be inclusive, we understand God’s table of grace and fellowship can extend into our homes. As you’re able, bring your own elements to this time.

Bread, Juice, Coffee, Muffins… the Body of Christ is comprised of wonder and mystery. Today, we celebrate that God can reach us where we are, even if we are not together.

The Great Mystery of our Faith
All: Christ has died
Christ is risen. 
Christ will come again.

The Lord’s Prayer
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name, 
thy kingdom come, thy will be done, 
on earth as it is in heaven. 

Give us this day our daily bread. 
And forgive us our trespasses, 
as we forgive those who trespass against us. 

And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. 

For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, 
for ever and ever. Amen.

MUSIC: Where Can I Go? - El Dorado

Benediction

And remember:
God is with you,
God is for you, 
God refuses to be God without you. 
And may all of God’s people say: Amen!

Donate

🌧️ ONLINE ONLY 🌧️ Order of Worship for May 4, 2025: Encountering the Unexpected

Due to rain and wind,
we will be holding worship online only at 10 am PT

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LAFirstUMC/streams

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LAFirstUMC

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lafirstumc/

Call to Worship - Those of you joining us from home are invited to light a candle to welcome the presence of the Holy Spirit

Let the Day Begin - El Dorado

Welcome - Stephen Folds

Come Thou Fount - El Dorado

Passing of the Peace: Through the act of passing the peace of Christ, we offer our sincere desire to love our neighbor.
You are invited to greet one another in the live stream chat on Instagram, YouTube, and Facebook. 

Class resumes this Tuesday, April 1, with Chapter 3.

DISTRICT CONFERENCES

District conferences will take place online at the following times on
Saturday, May 10, 2025

  • 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM PDT: South District Conference & North District Conference.

  • 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM PDT: West District Conference & East District Conference.

  • 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM HST: Hawaii District Conference (Sunday, May 11, 2025, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM Guam)

District Conference packets will be available later this week.

Preparing for AC2025: Cal-Pac Learning Labs

This month, we will host four sessions to help you prepare for this year’s Annual Conference Session:

  1. May 5, 6:30 pm PDT (3:30 pm HST): Introduction to MeetingPulse: This Monday, we’ll introduce you to our new meeting application that we’ll use for our sessions, bringing our hybrid experience and voting process into one easy-to-use platform on your device, whether it’s desktop, mobile, or tablet. Meeting links are sent directly to those who have completed registration for AC2025. 

  2. May 12, 6:30 pm PDT (3:30 pm HST): All About AC2025: This week, we’ll cover everything you need to know to register for and attend Annual Conference 2025. This session is designed for those who may be new to Cal-Pac or attending their first Annual Conference Session as a voting member. No registration needed - join the meeting at this link!

  3. May 19, 6:30 pm PDT (3:30 pm HST): Understanding Constitutional Amendments: Co-hosted with the other Western Jurisdiction conferences, learn about the four proposed amendments to our United Methodist Constitution. Register for this session now!

  4. May 20, 6:30 pm PDT (3:30 pm HST): Financial Matters: Apportionments and Budget: All are invited to attend this presentation of a proposed change to our apportionment system, and our 2026 budget, led by the Council on Finance and Administration, along with the Connectional Table, our Cabinet, and Connectional Ministries. Both of these proposals will be voted on at the 2025 Annual Conference. This learning lab will be especially relevant for Clergy and Lay Members of the Annual Conference, as well as those interested in local church finances and the Conference budget. Register now!

Know Your Rights:

You have constitutional rights:

• DO NOT OPEN THE DOOR if an immigration agent is knocking on the door.

• DO NOT ANSWER ANY QUESTIONS from an immigration agent if they try to talk to you. You have the right to remain silent.

• DO NOT SIGN ANYTHING without first speaking to a lawyer. You have the right to speak with a lawyer.

• If you are outside of your home, ask the agent if you are free to leave and if they say yes, leave calmly.

• GIVE THIS CARD TO THE AGENT. If you are inside of your home, show the card through the window or slide it under the door.

I do not wish to speak with you, answer your questions, or sign or hand you any documents based on my 5th Amendment rights under the United States Constitution.

I do not give you permission to enter my home based on my 4th Amendment rights under the United States Constitution unless you have a warrant to enter, signed by a judge or magistrate with my name on it that you slide under the door.

I do not give you permission to search any of my belongings based on my 4th Amendment rights.

I choose to exercise my constitutional rights.

These cards are available to citizens and noncitizens alike.

CALL TO PRAYER: Prayer of St. Francis - Sarah McLaughlin- El Dorado

Joys and Concerns: Prayers of the People We believe that the best way to bear our burdens is to share them with one another. You welcome to share your joys and concerns so that our community can hold these things in our hearts as we lift them to God together. 

You are invited to share your prayers in the Facebook Live Chat, or on the YouTube Live chat.

New Testament Reading: Acts 9:1-6, (7-20) - Paul's conversion, baptism, and preaching

Meanwhile Saul, still breathing threats and murder against the disciples of the Lord, went to the high priest and asked him for letters to the synagogues at Damascus, so that if he found any who belonged to the Way, men or women, he might bring them bound to Jerusalem.

Now as he was going along and approaching Damascus, suddenly a light from heaven flashed around him.

He fell to the ground and heard a voice saying to him, "Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me?"

He asked, "Who are you, Lord?" The reply came, "I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting.

But get up and enter the city, and you will be told what you are to do."

The men who were traveling with him stood speechless because they heard the voice but saw no one.

Saul got up from the ground, and though his eyes were open, he could see nothing; so they led him by the hand and brought him into Damascus.

For three days he was without sight and neither ate nor drank.

Now there was a disciple in Damascus named Ananias. The Lord said to him in a vision, "Ananias." He answered, "Here I am, Lord."

The Lord said to him, "Get up and go to the street called Straight, and at the house of Judas look for a man of Tarsus named Saul. At this moment he is praying, and he has seen in a vision a man named Ananias come in and lay his hands on him so that he might regain his sight."

But Ananias answered, "Lord, I have heard from many about this man, how much evil he has done to your saints in Jerusalem, and here he has authority from the chief priests to bind all who invoke your name."

But the Lord said to him, "Go, for he is an instrument whom I have chosen to bring my name before gentiles and kings and before the people of Israel; I myself will show him how much he must suffer for the sake of my name."

So Ananias went and entered the house. He laid his hands on Saul and said, "Brother Saul, the Lord Jesus, who appeared to you on your way here, has sent me so that you may regain your sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit."

And immediately something like scales fell from his eyes, and his sight was restored. Then he got up and was baptized, and after taking some food, he regained his strength. For several days he was with the disciples in Damascus, and immediately he began to proclaim Jesus in the synagogues, saying, "He is the Son of God."

Gospel Lesson - John 21:1-19 - Jesus appears to the disciples

After these things Jesus showed himself again to the disciples by the Sea of Tiberias, and he showed himself in this way. Gathered there together were Simon Peter, Thomas called the Twin, Nathanael of Cana in Galilee, the sons of Zebedee, and two others of his disciples.

Simon Peter said to them, "I am going fishing." They said to him, "We will go with you." They went out and got into the boat, but that night they caught nothing.

Just after daybreak, Jesus stood on the beach, but the disciples did not know that it was Jesus.

Jesus said to them, "Children, you have no fish, have you?" They answered him, "No."

He said to them, "Cast the net to the right side of the boat, and you will find some." So they cast it, and now they were not able to haul it in because there were so many fish.

That disciple whom Jesus loved said to Peter, "It is the Lord!" When Simon Peter heard that it was the Lord, he put on his outer garment, for he had taken it off, and jumped into the sea.

But the other disciples came in the boat, dragging the net full of fish, for they were not far from the land, only about a hundred yards off.

When they had gone ashore, they saw a charcoal fire there, with fish on it, and bread.

Jesus said to them, "Bring some of the fish that you have just caught."

So Simon Peter went aboard and hauled the net ashore, full of large fish, a hundred fifty-three of them, and though there were so many, the net was not torn.

Jesus said to them, "Come and have breakfast." Now none of the disciples dared to ask him, "Who are you?" because they knew it was the Lord.

Jesus came and took the bread and gave it to them and did the same with the fish.

This was now the third time that Jesus appeared to the disciples after he was raised from the dead.

When they had finished breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter, "Simon son of John, do you love me more than these?" He said to him, "Yes, Lord; you know that I love you." Jesus said to him, "Feed my lambs."

A second time he said to him, "Simon son of John, do you love me?" He said to him, "Yes, Lord; you know that I love you." Jesus said to him, "Tend my sheep."

He said to him the third time, "Simon son of John, do you love me?" Peter felt hurt because he said to him the third time, "Do you love me?" And he said to him, "Lord, you know everything; you know that I love you." Jesus said to him, "Feed my sheep.

Very truly, I tell you, when you were younger, you used to fasten your own belt and to go wherever you wished. But when you grow old, you will stretch out your hands, and someone else will fasten a belt around you and take you where you do not wish to go."

(He said this to indicate the kind of death by which he would glorify God.) After this he said to him, "Follow me."

One: This is the word of God for us, the People of God.
All: Thanks be to God!

Sermon: Encountering the Unexpected, Rev. Dr. Mandy McDow, preaching

HOLY COMMUNION

Invitation to the Table: As we understand the Body of Christ to be inclusive, we understand God’s table of grace and fellowship can extend into our homes. As you’re able, bring your own elements to this time.

Bread, Juice, Coffee, Muffins… the Body of Christ is comprised of wonder and mystery. Today, we celebrate that God can reach us where we are, even if we are not together.

The Great Mystery of our Faith
All: Christ has died
Christ is risen. 
Christ will come again.

The Lord’s Prayer
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name, 
thy kingdom come, thy will be done, 
on earth as it is in heaven. 

Give us this day our daily bread. 
And forgive us our trespasses, 
as we forgive those who trespass against us. 

And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. 

For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, 
for ever and ever. Amen.

MUSIC: Great are You, Lord - El Dorado

Benediction

And remember:
God is with you,
God is for you, 
God refuses to be God without you. 
And may all of God’s people say: Amen!

Donate

Order of Worship for Easter Sunday - April 20, 2025: The Last Enemy to be Destroyed Is Death

Call to Worship - Those of you joining us from home are invited to light a candle to welcome the presence of the Holy Spirit

Invitation to Worship - Rev. Dr. Mandy McDow

Call to Worship

One: Alleluia! Christ is Risen!
Many: Christ is Risen, indeed! Alleluia!
One: Easter people, raise your voices!
Many: Jesus Christ, our King, is risen!
One: Now we are the ones to shout, “Where, O Death, is your victory?”
Many: Jesus Christ is risen! Alleluia! Amen!

Christ the Lord Is Risen Today-Charles Wesley - El Dorado + United Women in Faith Choir

Superstar - El Dorado

Welcome - Stephen Folds

O Happy Day/My Sweet Lord - Edwin B. Hawkins/George Harrison - El Dorado

Passing of the Peace: Through the act of passing the peace of Christ, we offer our sincere desire to love our neighbor.
You are invited to greet one another in the live stream chat on Instagram, YouTube, and Facebook. 

No Class this week - Class will resume with Chapter 22 on April 30

Know Your Rights:

You have constitutional rights:

• DO NOT OPEN THE DOOR if an immigration agent is knocking on the door.

• DO NOT ANSWER ANY QUESTIONS from an immigration agent if they try to talk to you. You have the right to remain silent.

• DO NOT SIGN ANYTHING without first speaking to a lawyer. You have the right to speak with a lawyer.

• If you are outside of your home, ask the agent if you are free to leave and if they say yes, leave calmly.

• GIVE THIS CARD TO THE AGENT. If you are inside of your home, show the card through the window or slide it under the door.

I do not wish to speak with you, answer your questions, or sign or hand you any documents based on my 5th Amendment rights under the United States Constitution.

I do not give you permission to enter my home based on my 4th Amendment rights under the United States Constitution unless you have a warrant to enter, signed by a judge or magistrate with my name on it that you slide under the door.

I do not give you permission to search any of my belongings based on my 4th Amendment rights.

I choose to exercise my constitutional rights.

These cards are available to citizens and noncitizens alike.

CALL TO PRAYER: The Old Rugged Cross - El Dorado

Prayers of the People - Rev. Dr. Mandy McDow

Joys and Concerns: Prayers of the People We believe that the best way to bear our burdens is to share them with one another. You welcome to share your joys and concerns so that our community can hold these things in our hearts as we lift them to God together. 

You are invited to share your prayers in the Facebook Live Chat, or on the YouTube Live chat.

Hebrew Bible Reading: Responsive Reading – Selections from Psalm 104
One: O Holy Creator, you are very great, clothed with the majesty of stars and the light of the
sun.
Many: You set the earth on its foundations so that it shall never be shaken.
One: You make springs that gush forth into the valleys, giving drink to every wild animal. By the
rushing streams, birds nest and sing among the branches.
Many: All the earth is satisfied with the fruit of your work.
One: You cause grass to grow for cattle and plants for people to use, to bring forth food from the
earth. Your sea creatures roam free and cavort in the deep ocean.
Many: All peoples and animals have a home and a purpose for living, by day and by night.
One: When you send forth your breath, your creation lives and the earth is renewed.
Many: We join with all creation in singing praise to our Creator. May our lives manifest your love
and care for all the universe.

Gospel Lesson - John 12:1-8, NRSV - Mary Anoints Jesus

Six days before the Passover Jesus came to Bethany, the home of Lazarus, whom he had raised from the dead. There they gave a dinner for him. Martha served, and Lazarus was one of those at the table with him.Mary took a pound of costly perfume made of pure nard, anointed Jesus’ feet, and wiped them with her hair. The house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume. But Judas Iscariot, one of his disciples (the one who was about to betray him), said, ‘Why was this perfume not sold for three hundred denarii and the money given to the poor?’ (He said this not because he cared about the poor, but because he was a thief; he kept the common purse and used to steal what was put into it.) Jesus said, ‘Leave her alone. She bought it so that she might keep it for the day of my burial. You always have the poor with you, but you do not always have me.’

One: This is the word of God for us, the People of God.
All: Thanks be to God!

Sermon: The Earth is the Lord’s, Tom Grode, Lay Leader, preaching

RESPONSE TO THE WORD - Resources and Strategies, Sara Munshin, United Women in Faith President

Epistle Reading: 1 Corinthians 15:19-26, NRSV

If for this life only we have hoped in Christ, we are of all people most to be pitied.

But in fact Christ has been raised from the dead, the first fruits of those who have died. For since death came through a human being, the resurrection of the dead has also come through a human being; for as all die in Adam, so all will be made alive in Christ. But each in his own order: Christ the first fruits, then at his coming those who belong to Christ. Then comes the end, when he hands over the kingdom to God the Father, after he has destroyed every ruler and every authority and power. For he must reign until he has put all his enemies under his feet. The last enemy to be destroyed is death.

Gospel Lesson - Luke 24:1-12, NRSV, The Resurrection of Jesus

But on the first day of the week, at early dawn, they came to the tomb, taking the spices that they had prepared. They found the stone rolled away from the tomb, but when they went in, they did not find the body.While they were perplexed about this, suddenly two men in dazzling clothes stood beside them. The women were terrified and bowed their faces to the ground, but the men said to them, ‘Why do you look for the living among the dead? He is not here, but has risen. Remember how he told you, while he was still in Galilee, that the Son of Man must be handed over to sinners, and be crucified, and on the third day rise again.’Then they remembered his words, and returning from the tomb, they told all this to the eleven and to all the rest. Now it was Mary Magdalene, Joanna, Mary the mother of James, and the other women with them who told this to the apostles. But these words seemed to them an idle tale, and they did not believe them. But Peter got up and ran to the tomb; stooping and looking in, he saw the linen cloths by themselves; then he went home, amazed at what had happened.

One: This is the word of God for us, the People of God.
All: Thanks be to God!

Sermon: The Last Enemy to Be Destroyed Is Death, Rev. Dr. Mandy McDow, preaching

Holy Communion

The Great Mystery of our Faith

All: Christ has died. Christ is risen. Christ will come again.

The Lord’s Prayer
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name, 
thy kingdom come, thy will be done, 
on earth as it is in heaven. 

Give us this day our daily bread. 
And forgive us our trespasses, 
as we forgive those who trespass against us. 

And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. 

For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, 
for ever and ever. Amen.

MUSIC: In Christ Alone - El Dorado
Benediction

And remember:
God is with you,
God is for you, 
God refuses to be God without you. 
And may all of God’s people say: Amen!

Donate

Order of Worship for the Easter Sunrise Service 2025

GATHERING IN DARKNESS AND SILENCE

CHIMING OF THE HOUR           

BREAKING THE DAWN Remain/Hallelujah Chorus - El Dorado

GREETING AND INTRODUCTION   
Grace to you from Jesus Christ, who was and is, and is to come.
Beloved, our Savior Jesus Christ has passed from death to life.
Hear the word of God: In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.
In the Word was life and the life was the light of all people.
The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.   

BLESSING OF THE NEW FIRE                                                       
Eternal God, giver of light and life, bless this new flame that by its radiance and warmth we may respond to your love and grace, and be set free from all that separates us from you and from each other; through Jesus Christ, the Sun of Righteousness. Amen.

LIGHTING OF THE PASCHAL CANDLE                  
ONE: May the light of Christ, rising in glory, banish all darkness from our hearts and minds. Christ is our light!  
MANY: Alleluia! Thanks be to God!          

OPENING HYMN: Christ the Lord is Risen Today - El Dorado
            
*GOSPEL LESSON: John 20:1-18
Early on the first day of the week, while it was still dark, Mary Magdalene came to the tomb and saw that the stone had been removed from the tomb. So she ran and went to Simon Peter and the other disciple, the one whom Jesus loved, and said to them, ‘They have taken the Lord out of the tomb, and we do not know where they have laid him.’ Then Peter and the other disciple set out and went towards the tomb. The two were running together, but the other disciple outran Peter and reached the tomb first. He bent down to look in and saw the linen wrappings lying there, but he did not go in. Then Simon Peter came, following him, and went into the tomb. He saw the linen wrappings lying there, and the cloth that had been on Jesus’ head, not lying with the linen wrappings but rolled up in a place by itself. Then the other disciple, who reached the tomb first, also went in, and he saw and believed; for as yet they did not understand the scripture, that he must rise from the dead. Then the disciples returned to their homes.

But Mary stood weeping outside the tomb. As she wept, she bent over to look* into the tomb; and she saw two angels in white, sitting where the body of Jesus had been lying, one at the head and the other at the feet.They said to her, ‘Woman, why are you weeping?’ She said to them, ‘They have taken away my Lord, and I do not know where they have laid him.’When she had said this, she turned round and saw Jesus standing there, but she did not know that it was Jesus. Jesus said to her, ‘Woman, why are you weeping? For whom are you looking?’ Supposing him to be the gardener, she said to him, ‘Sir, if you have carried him away, tell me where you have laid him, and I will take him away.’ Jesus said to her, ‘Mary!’ She turned and said to him in Hebrew,* ‘Rabbouni!’ (which means Teacher). Jesus said to her, ‘Do not hold on to me, because I have not yet ascended to the Father. But go to my brothers and say to them, “I am ascending to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.” ’ Mary Magdalene went and announced to the disciples, ‘I have seen the Lord’; and she told them that he had said these things to her.                

EASTER EXAMEN

St. Ignatius created the Examen to be a very short prayer which can be prayed at any time. In the Examen, we review our recent past to find God and his blessings in our daily life.
Ignatius would say that the Examen should be the most important moment of our day, because this moment affects every other moment.

  • Take a deep breath and hold it for a moment - taking in God’s love, light and strength - and let it out slowly, exhaling any worries, cares or fears.

  • Invite the Holy Spirit to help you see Easter as God sees it.

  • This year is different. What was normal a year ago is no longer so.

  • Think about this Easter season, the Resurrection that we are celebrating. Take a moment to recognize how God has been present in the days since last Easter Sunday.

  • Think about the things you have experienced over this past year which you are grateful for.
    Be specific; it can be time spent with your family, new ways to connect with friends, the ability to travel or explore a new opportunity, something special you’ve discovered, warmer weather, sunshine, spring flowers beginning to blossom. Recognize the experience a Resurrection experience. Take a moment to thank God for your gift.

  • As you pay attention to your feelings, ask yourself where God seems to be present in your Easter-Resurrection experience.
    Did you experience God’s love, forgiveness or mercy?
    What graces do you recognize in your Easter experience?

  • Now take a moment and review where you may not have recognized God’s presence in your Easter-Resurrection experience.
    Think deeply about this moment when you saw the need for love and didn’t feel that love.
    What was the behavior that may have distanced you from God in the moment?
    Ask for forgiveness and the grace to recognize God’s presence in all things.

  • Finally, think about what you are hopeful for and what you are looking forward to as the Easter season continues to unfold.
    Offer these to God and ask for God’s blessing on your hopes and dreams.
    Invite God to journey with you throughout the rest of the Easter season and beyond.

  • Let us pray the Lord's Prayer in the language in which you learned it first and best:

    Our Father in heaven,

    Hallowed be your Name.

    Your Kingdom come.

    Your will be done

    on earth, as it is in heaven.

    Give us today our daily bread.

    Forgive us our sins,

    as we forgive those who sin against us.

    Save us from the time of trial,

    and deliver us from evil.

    For the kingdom,

    the power,

    and the glory are yours

    Now and forever.

    Amen.

                                       
RENEWAL OF BAPTISM VOWS                                  
Sisters and Brothers, on this day, when we celebrate the rising of Christ from death, let us gather at the water to celebrate our baptism, which is the sign and seal of our new life in Christ, by saying the promises that were made at our baptism…Do you renounce the spiritual forces of evil?
MANY: I renounce the spiritual forces of evil. 
ONE: Do you believe in God? 
MANY: I believe in God.
ONE: Do you believe in Jesus Christ? 
MANY: I believe in Jesus Christ. 
ONE: Do you believe in the Holy Spirit? 
MANY: I believe in the Holy Spirit.

Closing: O Happy Day/My Sweet Lord – El Dorado

PROCLAMATION AND SENDING FORTH        
One: Go to the world! Go into all the earth! Go preach the cross where Christ renews life’s worth, baptizing as a sign of our rebirth.  
           

 Christ is risen!                         Christos anesti!            
Christ is risen, indeed!         Alethios anesti!             
Alleluia!                                   Alleluia!            
Alleluia!                                 Alleluia!

Join us for Easter Worship at 10:00 am PDT on FB/YouTube/Instagram
or IN PERSON at 1010 S. Flower Street, Los Angeles, CA 90015!

Good Friday Meditation Stations

Welcome to the Guided Meditation for Holy Week

This guide will help you navigate through nine stations throughout the church. This meditation will give you an intimate look at the last hours of Jesus’ life. You are invited to gather some items which may help with your meditation:

  • Each station: your Bible and a candle (or 9 candles, to be extinguished as you complete each station)

  • Station 1: a small bag of coins and a small table, which you could overturn (this takes some courage)

  • Station 2: a plant to represent the Garden of Gethsemane

  • Station 3: sharp wire or sticks, to represent the Crown of Thorns and a piece of purple cloth

  • Station 4: a cross you can lift

  • Station 5: a hammer, nails, small scrap of wood

  • Station 6: a pair of dice

  • Station 7: a place to kneel

  • Station 8: a Bible turned to Psalm 22

  • Station 9: a length of white or linen cloth, a small amount of oil (as if for anointing)

The artwork for each station was painted by my beloved friend, Bobby Strickland, for Saint Mark United Methodist Church in 2008. These paintings were commissioned by the Director of Fine Arts, Jane Burke, and have been a blessing to so many through the years.

****************************************************************************************************************

We are busy people, and these are busy times, and so we’re glad that you’re here and that you’ve taken the time to be in this sacred space.

We are going on a journey today, and at each station, you will encounter a text which describes what Jesus did during Holy Week. As you make your way along the path, we invite you to reflect on the texts. As you leave the tomb—the final place in our journey today—you will have opportunities to think about how the text might affect you in the here and now. What does the text mean for the Christian life today? What does it mean for your life?

Keep in mind that we live in a world where time is based on linear-thinking. We know of life as past, present and future. But, the God of all, who created us to live in this world, is not bound by time. So, the events of Holy Week are not bound by history. The events of Holy Week recur each year as if they are happening all over again.

There’s no need to rush. The goal is to think about the text as if for the first time and then to think about its meaning for your life today. It requires listening with new ears and seeing with new eyes. So, take as much time as you need, and give others the time and space they need as well.
Breathe deeply. Relax. It’s okay to go slowly and let your mind wander.

Our journey begins with Monday of Holy Week, on the day following Palm Sunday. In our first text, commonly referred to as the cleansing of the temple, Jesus enters the temple courtyard, and, seeing the business going on there, begins to drive out those who were buying and selling and he overturns the tables of the moneychangers. He interrupts the temple activity because it had become a substitute for the activity of justice and righteousness which God commands.

What Jesus did in the cleansing of the Temple was an interruption. An interruption of the normal, day-to-day way of doing things. It might have been a Holy interruption, but it was an interruption nonetheless.

An interruption…

Keep that word in mind as you begin. It will be important. Interruption. When you feel ready, you may enter the courtyard, and, as you make your way to the first stop, remember that this is a Sacred Space and a Sacred Time.

Blessings on your journey.

Station One:  Jesus Cleanses the Temple
 

Then they came to Jerusalem. And he entered the temple and began to drive out those who were selling and those who were buying in the temple, and he overturned the tables of the money changers and the seats of those who sold doves; and he would not allow anyone to carry anything through t he temple. He was teaching and saying, “Is it not written, ‘My house shall be called a house of prayer for all nations?’ 
But you have made it a den of robbers!”

And when the chief priests and the scribes heard it, they kept looking for a way to kill him; for they were afraid of him, because the whole crowd was spellbound by his teaching. And when the evening came, Jesus and his disciples went out of the city.  
- Mark 11:15-19


If you wish, close your eyes and imagine this scene:

 

        ...Business as usual… then t he violence of Jesus’ anger… the shock of the onlookers…Pause with the scene for a moment, and let it unfold in your imagination.
What in our world,
            The church,
                        Your own life
                                 Makes Christ this angry now?

Invite God into the place where you hold these thoughts, images and feelings in your heart. This is your chance to give these things over to God, and let God be angry with you, for you. Wherever you are, I invite you to “overturn” the tables of the things that have set up camp in your lives and hearts.  Smash them, break them, let them go. Watch as the good intentions that have turned into bad habits & misguided actions are turned on their heads.

When you are ready, continue reading. 

Jesus Prays in Gethsemane, Bobby Strickland

Station Two: Jesus Prays in Gethsemane

 They went to a place called Gethsemane; and he said to his disciples, “Sit here while I pray.” He took with him Peter and James and John, and began to be distressed and agitated. And he said to them, “I am deeply grieved, even to death; remain here, and keep awake.” And, going a little farther, he threw himself on the ground and prayed that, if it were possible, the hour might pass from him. He said, “ Abba, Father, for you all things are possible; remove this cup from me; yet, not what I want, but what you want.”

He came and found them sleeping; and he said to Peter, “Simon, are you asleep? Could you not keep awake one hour? Keep awake and pray that you may not come into the time of trial; the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.”

And again, he went away and prayed, saying the same words. And once more, he came and found them sleeping, for their eyes were very heavy; and they did not know what to say to him. He came a third time and said to them, “Are you still sleeping and taking your rest? Enough! The hour has come; the Son of Man is betrayed into the hands of sinners. Get up, let us be going. See, my betrayer is at hand.”  - Mark 14:32-42

Jesus came to the garden to pray. Here, in this quiet space, we invite you to focus on the painting of Christ. Look at his expression. What do you see?

As you read the scripture, how does it make you feel to know that Jesus was distressed… agitated?
What is he asking of the disciples? Why can’t they seem to do it?
How does it make you feel, that Jesus prayed for the hour to pass from him?

Let this be your prayer, as you sit and contemplate:
“Abba, Father, for you all things are possible; remove this cup from me; yet, not what I want, but what you want.”

When you are ready, continue reading.

Jesus Carrying the Cross, Bobby Strickland

Station Three: To Mock Your Reign, O Dearest Lord

Then the soldiers led him into the courtyard of the palace; and they called together the whole cohort. And they clothed him in a purple cloak; and after twisting some thorns into a crown, they put it on him. And they began saluting him, “Hail, King of the Jews!” They struck his head with a reed, spat upon him, and knelt down in homage to him. After mocking him, they stripped him of the purple cloak and put his own clothes on him. Then they led him out to crucify him.—Mark 15:16-20

Here, you will find scraps of purple cloth, and a crown of thorns. I invite you to touch the thorns, to feel how sharp they are, and to run your hands over the soft fabric.

The actions of the soldiers were humiliating and scornful, and yet, during this Holy Week, the mocking and derision still pointed to the truth of the Gospel: that Jesus is the King of the Jews, the Lord of Life, the Son of God and the Son of Man.

What do you find that you mock or deride in your own life? A person? A relationship? A job? Consider why you have such deep feelings, and seek to discover why. Are you afraid, of love? Of success? Of failure?

We mock what we desire, and what we desire most is to be loved. Yet, to receive love is often the most challenging thing for us. So, we hurt Love. We hold it at a distance. We scorn it and question it and wait for Love to leave.

Jesus came that we may know the fullness of God’s love. Like the soldiers, we deny that Love because it is too powerful, too mysterious, too overwhelming. We flood our minds with doubt.  We place a thorny crown on the head of that which we most desire. But, for God, nothing that we do will separate us from God’s love. As you sit, open yourself to the possibility that God’s love does not have to be scorned or mocked, but can be accepted.

When you are ready, continue reading.

Simon of Cyrene, Bobby Strickland

Station Four: Take up Thy Cross, and Follow Me

 The soldiers compelled a passer-by, who was coming in from the country, to carry his cross. It was Simon of Cyrene, the father of Alexander and Rufus . —Mark 15:21

We know little of Simon of Cyrene, except that he was the one chosen to carry the cross for Jesus.

He was willing. Able. Weighted down.

Here, you will find the cross that we use on Sunday mornings. If you are able, I ask you to lift it up out of its stand. Feel the weight in your hands, watch how it pulls you forward, and the force of gravity makes you want to put it down.

As you feel the heaviness of this cross, consider the weight of the cross upon which Christ was crucified. It was massive, made of hewn logs that weren’t hollowed or sanded. Not only was it heavy, it was also rough and abrasive.

When you are called by Jesus to take up your cross, what do you imagine lifting? What, in your life, is so heavy and burdensome that you crave and desire help to carry it?

Who in your life might need help with their cross? Is there someone who is struggling that could use your strength and comfort?

Now: Consider what sort of “cross” Jesus is calling you to carry as you follow him. What makes being a Christian hard for you? What do you struggle with most? 

As you consider the cross, ask Jesus where you are being led. Consider picking up your burden and following where Christ is calling you to go.

 When you are ready, continue reading. 

 

Christ is Crucified, Bobby Strickland

Station Five: Were You There When They Crucified My Lord?

A great number of the people followed him, and among them were women who were beating their breasts and wailing for him. But Jesus turned to them and said, ‘Daughters of Jerusalem, do not weep for me, but weep for yourselves and for your children. For the days are surely coming when they will say, “Blessed are the barren, and the wombs that never bore, and the breasts that never nursed.”

Then they will begin to say to the mountains, “Fall on us”; and to the hills, “Cover us.” For if they do this when the wood is green, what will happen when it is dry?’ Two others also, who were criminals, were led away to be put to death with him. When they came to Golgotha, the place that is called The Skull, they crucified Jesus* there with the criminals, one on his right and one on his left. Then Jesus said, ‘Father, forgive them; for they do not know what they are doing.’—Luke 23:27-34

 “And they crucified Jesus there with the criminals.”

It’s horrible. These eight words contain the greatest sin that humankind ever committed. We crucified Jesus, the Son of God, our Savior… the embodiment of love. 

Here, you will find a hammer and nails. You are invited to hammer a nail, carefully, into the wood that’s available. Hear the ring of the hammer. The echo of its force.

What have we done, O Lord?

And yet, Jesus’ first words are, “Father, forgive them;
for they know not what they are doing.”

Pray for forgiveness for the things in your life that you find most unforgiveable.
God is willing, if we but ask.

Take a moment to read James Weldon Johnson’s powerful poem: The Crucifixion.

When you are ready, continue reading.

Casting Lots, Bobby Strickland

Station Six: Casting Lots

When the soldiers had crucified Jesus, they took his clothes and divided them into four parts, one for each soldier. They also took his tunic; now the tunic was seamless, woven in one piece from the top. So they said to one another, ‘Let us not tear it, but cast lots for it to see who will get it.’ This was to fulfill what the scripture says,
‘They divided my clothes among themselves,
for my clothing they cast.’
And that is what the soldiers did.
                                                   —John 19:23-25a

Before Jesus died,
the soldiers took charge
and led him out,
“just politics,”
they said.

And suddenly they were there
the skull
the horrid mount
stripped,
naked,
he refused the anesthesia and was pounded into wood.

Gambling, laughing,
cursing, mocking,
weeping, hoping,
praying -

a casino at the cross.
-Brother Maria Anthony Serval 

As you read the poem above, hold the dice in your hands. Roll them around.

A Casino at the Cross…

What do we gamble on today?

We take things that are so trivial, and give them power and value when they have none. A tunic. A simple tunic, gambled away by the soldiers at the foot of the cross.

This is your chance to take away the power that you’ve given to arbitrary things. To set down the dice, and refuse to gamble for something that means nothing. We don’t have to take chances with God. We’ve done our worst, and we’re still loved and forgiven.

 When you are ready, continue reading.


Women Weeping at the Cross, Bobby Strickland

Station Seven: Woman, Behold your Son

 Meanwhile, standing near the cross of Jesus were his mother, and his mother’s sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene. When Jesus saw his mother and the disciple whom he loved standing beside her, he said to his mother, ‘Woman, here is your son.’ Then he said to the disciple, ‘Here is your mother.’ And from that hour the disciple took her into his own home.        —John 19:25b-27

Jesus has always pushed us to reconsider everything we hold dear—institutions, possessions, now, our family systems.

Jesus says to his weeping mother, who birthed him, nursed him, fled with him, fed him, taught him, rejoiced with him, lost him and found him… “Woman, here is your son.”

He knows that she is looking at her own flesh and blood in its most vulnerable state. As an infant, she washed his feet, belly, chest and head. She knows him intimately. And here, for all the world to see, is her son, naked and dying. Bleeding and wounded. Broken.

It’s a heartbreaking scene. But, Jesus says to the disciple with her, “Here is your mother.” In this absurd moment, on the cross, Jesus shakes even the bond of family. Or so it seems.

Perhaps what Jesus is doing is restoring those bonds, so that when Mary weeps for her son, she will have another to comfort her. Jesus does not leave her alone or abandoned. He provides a new relationship, with the Disciple Whom He Loved.

How is it that Jesus has given you hope out of sorrow? Brought for life, where there was death? How is it that a heartbreaking death made a place for new relationship to begin?

 When you are ready, continue reading.

The Angel Weeps, Bobby Strickland

Station Eight: The Death of Jesus

When it was noon, darkness came over the whole land until three in the afternoon. At three o’clock Jesus cried out with a loud voice,

‘Eloi, Eloi, lema sabachthani?’

which means, ‘My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?’

When some of the bystanders heard it, they said, ‘Listen, he is calling for Elijah.’ And someone ran, filled a sponge with sour wine, put it on a stick, and gave it to him to drink, saying, ‘Wait, let us see whether Elijah will come to take him down.’  Then Jesus gave a loud cry and breathed his last. And the curtain of the temple was torn in two, from top to bottom. Now when the centurion, who stood facing him, saw that in this way he breathed his last, he said, ‘Truly this man was the Son of God!’ - Mark 15:33-39

Open your Bible, not to the scripture above, but to Psalm 22.

Read it through.

Do you see the echo of the words Jesus shouts from the cross?

Read the Psalm again. Listen and be attentive to the tone throughout this Psalm. How does it change? Do you see the Psalmist moving from one emotion to another?

What does Jesus’ invocation of these words, “My God, My God, why have you forsaken me?” tell you about his final moments on the cross? How does it make you feel to think that Jesus felt forsaken… by God?

Remember that Jesus was wholly divine and wholly human. His death was not divine punishment, but truly God suffered and died, as well. If you choose, light the candle, and let it burn for a bit. Blow it out before you leave to signify the darkness of this moment.

When you are ready, continue reading.


The Stone is Rolled at the Tomb, Bobby Strickland

Station Nine: The Sealing of the Tomb

After these things, Joseph of Arimathea, who was a disciple of Jesus, though a secret one because of his fear of the Jews, asked Pilate to let him take away the body of Jesus. Pilate gave him permission; so he came and removed his body. Nicodemus, who had at first come to Jesus by night, also came, bringing a mixture of myrrh and aloes, weighing about a hundred pounds.

 They took the body of Jesus and wrapped it with the spices in linen cloths, according to the burial custom of the Jews. Now there was a garden in the place where he was crucified, and in the garden there was a new tomb in which no one had ever been laid. And so, because it was the Jewish day of Preparation, and the tomb was nearby, they laid Jesus there. - John 19:38-42

After death, all we can do is mourn. We go through the motions of grieving and preparing, and when Death makes itself welcome in our lives, we have to accommodate it. 

Take the anointing oil and a linen cloth. You are invited to use the oil to anoint your head, as a reminder that we will meet death ourselves, one day. Our mortality is always with us, and the promise that we receive is that we are not alone, even in death.

Today, we prepare to bury the body of Jesus. He has been crucified and has died the same death that we will one day face. 

Give thanks that God loves us, even through our own sinfulness and brokenness. God refuses to be without us, even in death.

When you are ready, you may finish in silence.