Order of Worship for the Easter Sunrise Service 2023

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. Even as a vaccine is more readily available, we are still self-isolating and keeping ourselves from work, family and friends.

  • 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 over social media, 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 10:30 am PDT on FB/YouTube/Twitter or IN PERSON at 1010 S. Flower Street, Los Angeles, CA 90015

Order of Worship for Sunday, March 26, 2023: Lent V - Is Resurrection Possible?

Call to Worship - You are invited to light a candle in your home to welcome the presence of the Holy Spirit

Brighter Days - El Dorado

Welcome - Stephen Folds

Closer to Fine - 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. 

LENT SERMON SERIES: SAVED BY GRACE
You are invited to pray the Lord’s Prayer every day at noon throughout Lent
February 26 - Temptation and the Nature of Sin
March 5 - What Does it Mean to Be Saved?
March 12 - Justified by Faith
March 19 - The Grace that Comes Before Our Knowing
March 26 - Is Resurrection Possible?
April 2 - Palm Sunday 🌿 - Jesus Christ Superstar!
April 7 - Good Friday - Virtual Service at Noon PT
April 9 - Easter Sunday - Set Your Minds on Things That Are Above
April 16 - Sabbath Sunday

Calling all arts submissions for “The Light in All of Us” LA First UMC community-wide Easter Arts Offering!

What does the phrase “The Light in All of Us” inspire in you? Does it spring forth as a tune, a painting, a poem, a painting, a lego sculpture, a film, a scene, etc? We are a church community filled with artists with many diverse gifts. We would love to hear what comes from your soul, what your heart would create around that theme. It can be shared live or via video or email. We would like to our online and in-person community members to share their gifts a part of our celebration of Easter.

As you complete your work, email office@lafirstumc.org to let us know how you would like to present your portion of this offering.

[UPDATE: These art offering will be shown to the congregation on Easter Sunday. If you are a virtual member or would like to show your work of art or a recording of your work of art digitally, please email a copy to office@lafirstumc.org. If you would like to show your art work or performance live, just email the office to let us know what you are excited to share!]

If you are unsure of what to create but have a strong desire to participate, Sara Munshin has lovingly provided mandalas for people to color or paint in.

You can print out full sized copies here:

https://docs.google.com/document/d/14OZd0Z2m82myE2KFEHgAmZJhyL0BTNFJfVI56KPF6h0/edit?usp=sharing

All who need a meal on Sunday, young and old, are invited to come sit down at the table with us for a hot, catered breakfast to get their day started! Our volunteers will be acting as servers, so that all who come join us have time to sit and enjoy their breakfast

LA First UMC is starting this ministry with the hopes of helping to fill the need for hot meals served on the weekends when most meal-providing services are closed in DTLA.

LA First UMC's Sunday Breakfast Ministry

Sundays 8:30-9:30am Pacific Time
Outside, at the picnic tables, in the parking lot on the South East Corner of Olympic and Flower
Next to Villa Flores located at 1020 S Flower St

Update to Volunteering Process

In order for the hour to run smoothly and efficiently, Debbie has planned to have jobs for 6 volunteers each week. Don't worry there are plenty of Sundays to sign up for the rest of the year. Please reach out to Debbie to get on the volunteering calendar. She can be reached at debbie@lafirstumc.org. Once you are signed up to be one of the 6 volunteers for a given week, Debbie will send out an email the Friday or Saturday before your volunteer shift to confirm your participation.

UWF Scholarship Now Open!

UWF has opened their scholarship application in case anyone is interested.

https://uwfaith.org/latest-news/2023/united-women-in-faith-national-scholarship-2023/

UMCOR response to earthquakes in Turkey and Syria (Global Ministries)

Read the full story here.

Donate to UMCOR so that victims recieve 100% of your donation here.

COMMUNITY RESOURCES:

Cold and Wet Weather Reminder: LA Homeless Services Authority Winter Shelters Are Now Open Through March 31st

Motel vouchers are available and shelters operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Call 211 for a referral. https://www.lahsa.org/winter-shelter

Flash Flood Directions from the National Weather Serive:

Turn around, don't drown.

This is your reminder to never attempt to drive through flooded roads. It takes just 12 inches of rushing water to carry away a small car and 2 feet to carry away most vehicles.

Covid Testing:
Getting tested is now easier than ever with LA County's Pick-Up Testing Kits program. Visit ow.ly/tfIu50Hsnh5 for a list of locations where you can get a kit at no cost. The program will allow residents to pick up a PCR test kit & return it at designated locations. Results will be available within 24-48 hrs.

LA City is now offering free testing, without appointments at City-run sites. Find a site near you: Coronavirus.LACity.org/Testing
For additional COVID-19 resources: Coronavirus.LACity.org/Resources

CALL TO PRAYER: Just A Closer Walk With Thee - El Dorado

Joys and Concerns: We believe that the best way to bear our burdens is to share them with one another. You are invited 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.

First Reading: Psalm 130, NRSV
A Song of Ascents.
Out of the depths I cry to you, O Lord.
   Lord, hear my voice!
Let your ears be attentive
   to the voice of my supplications!
If you, O Lord, should mark iniquities,
   Lord, who could stand?
But there is forgiveness with you,
   so that you may be revered.
I wait for the Lord, my soul waits,
   and in his word I hope;
my soul waits for the Lord
   more than those who watch for the morning,
   more than those who watch for the morning.
O Israel, hope in the Lord!
   For with the Lord there is steadfast love,
   and with him is great power to redeem.
It is he who will redeem Israel
   from all its iniquities.

Scripture: John 11:1-45 NRSV - The Death of Lazarus

Now a certain man was ill, Lazarus of Bethany, the village of Mary and her sister Martha. Mary was the one who anointed the Lord with perfume and wiped his feet with her hair; her brother Lazarus was ill. So the sisters sent a message to Jesus, ‘Lord, he whom you love is ill.’ But when Jesus heard it, he said, ‘This illness does not lead to death; rather it is for God’s glory, so that the Son of God may be glorified through it.’ Accordingly, though Jesus loved Martha and her sister and Lazarus, after having heard that Lazarus was ill, he stayed two days longer in the place where he was.

Then after this he said to the disciples, ‘Let us go to Judea again.’ The disciples said to him, ‘Rabbi, the Jews were just now trying to stone you, and are you going there again?’ Jesus answered, ‘Are there not twelve hours of daylight? Those who walk during the day do not stumble, because they see the light of this world. But those who walk at night stumble, because the light is not in them.’ After saying this, he told them, ‘Our friend Lazarus has fallen asleep, but I am going there to awaken him.’ The disciples said to him, ‘Lord, if he has fallen asleep, he will be all right.’ Jesus, however, had been speaking about his death, but they thought that he was referring merely to sleep. Then Jesus told them plainly, ‘Lazarus is dead. For your sake I am glad I was not there, so that you may believe. But let us go to him.’ Thomas, who was called the Twin,said to his fellow-disciples, ‘Let us also go, that we may die with him.’

Jesus the Resurrection and the Life

When Jesus arrived, he found that Lazarus had already been in the tomb for four days. Now Bethany was near Jerusalem, some two miles away,and many of the Jews had come to Martha and Mary to console them about their brother. When Martha heard that Jesus was coming, she went and met him, while Mary stayed at home. Martha said to Jesus, ‘Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died. But even now I know that God will give you whatever you ask of him.’ Jesus said to her, ‘Your brother will rise again.’ Martha said to him, ‘I know that he will rise again in the resurrection on the last day.’ Jesus said to her, ‘I am the resurrection and the life. Those who believe in me, even though they die, will live, and everyone who lives and believes in me will never die. Do you believe this?’ She said to him, ‘Yes, Lord, I believe that you are the Messiah, the Son of God, the one coming into the world.’

Jesus Weeps

When she had said this, she went back and called her sister Mary, and told her privately, ‘The Teacher is here and is calling for you.’ And when she heard it, she got up quickly and went to him. Now Jesus had not yet come to the village, but was still at the place where Martha had met him.The Jews who were with her in the house, consoling her, saw Mary get up quickly and go out. They followed her because they thought that she was going to the tomb to weep there. When Mary came where Jesus was and saw him, she knelt at his feet and said to him, ‘Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died.’ When Jesus saw her weeping, and the Jews who came with her also weeping, he was greatly disturbed in spirit and deeply moved. He said, ‘Where have you laid him?’ They said to him, ‘Lord, come and see.’ Jesus began to weep. So the Jews said, ‘See how he loved him!’ But some of them said, ‘Could not he who opened the eyes of the blind man have kept this man from dying?’

Jesus Raises Lazarus to Life

Then Jesus, again greatly disturbed, came to the tomb. It was a cave, and a stone was lying against it. Jesus said, ‘Take away the stone.’ Martha, the sister of the dead man, said to him, ‘Lord, already there is a stench because he has been dead for four days.’ Jesus said to her, ‘Did I not tell you that if you believed, you would see the glory of God?’ So they took away the stone. And Jesus looked upwards and said, ‘Father, I thank you for having heard me. I knew that you always hear me, but I have said this for the sake of the crowd standing here, so that they may believe that you sent me.’ When he had said this, he cried with a loud voice, ‘Lazarus, come out!’ The dead man came out, his hands and feet bound with strips of cloth, and his face wrapped in a cloth. Jesus said to them, ‘Unbind him, and let him go.’

The Plot to Kill Jesus

Many of the Jews therefore, who had come with Mary and had seen what Jesus did, believed in him.

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

Sermon: Is Resurrection Possible? - Rev. 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.

CLOSING SONG: O For A Thousand Tongues to Sing - El Dorado

Benediction 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. 

LA FIRST UMC LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT - authored by Tom Grode, affirmed by LA First UMC’s Church Council on July 13, 2021

We Acknowledge the Tongva people as original caretakers of this land and their ancient village Yaangna, what we call Downtown Los Angeles.

We Acknowledge the many Native Americans who moved Downtown to Bunker Hill due to the Indian Relocation Act of 1956 as “the 'old' Bunker Hill was effectively scalped by urban renewal in the 1960’s.”   

We Acknowledge the work of Skid Row Housing Justice activists in the 1960's and 70's to keep the low income hotel housing in Skid Row from suffering the Urban Renewal fate of Bunker Hill.

We Acknowledge the Native Indigenous peoples of Los Angeles, their special relationship to Mother Earth, and their hospitality, inviting us into that special relationship.

We Acknowledge the patience, kindness, and compassion of Mother Earth.

We Acknowledge our beginnings as a church in 1853 when Methodist leader Adam Bland was sent to evangelize the "rowdy and incorrigible” Southland.

We Acknowledge our relationship with Biddy Mason, one of the Matriarchs of early Los Angeles, and a member of Fort Street Methodist Episcopal Church (the first name our church bore) before she began First African Methodist Episcopal (FAME) out of her home, one of the spiritual pillars in Los Angeles for many decades.

We Acknowledge Biddy Mason as the Patron Saint of Downtown Los Angeles, an enslaved woman who fought for the freedom of all who were enslaved. She utilized her training as a midwife to buy land and used her wealth to help others in need.

We Acknowledge the words of Jesus "to whom much is given much is required" as a blessing for us to live out: the legacy and reality of owning the largest piece of undeveloped property in South Park.

Welcome to Tongvaland, Pamela J. Peters

We Acknowledge the land of Downtown Los Angeles - more than a dozen unique and dynamic neighborhoods - as land the eyes of the world look towards for leadership and solutions to the challenges facing all humanity.

We Acknowledge the mission of the United Methodist Church as founded by John Wesley: to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world.

Donate

Order of Worship for Sunday, March 19, 2023: Lent IV - The Grace Which Comes Before Our Knowing

Call to Worship - You are invited to light a candle in your home to welcome the presence of the Holy Spirit

O For A Thousand Tongues to Sing - El Dorado

Welcome - Stephen Folds

Graceland - 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. 

LENT SERMON SERIES: SAVED BY GRACE
You are invited to pray the Lord’s Prayer every day at noon throughout Lent
February 26 - Temptation and the Nature of Sin
March 5 - What Does it Mean to Be Saved?
March 12 - Justified by Faith
March 19 - The Grace that Comes Before Our Knowing
March 26 - Is Resurrection Possible?
April 2 - Palm Sunday 🌿 - Jesus Christ Superstar!
April 7 - Good Friday - Virtual Service at Noon PT
April 9 - Easter Sunday - Set Your Minds on Things That Are Above
April 16 - Sabbath Sunday

Calling all arts submissions for “The Light in All of Us” LA First UMC community-wide Easter Arts Offering!

What does the phrase “The Light in All of Us” inspire in you? Does it spring forth as a tune, a painting, a poem, a painting, a lego sculpture, a film, a scene, etc? We are a church community filled with artists with many diverse gifts. We would love to hear what comes from your soul, what your heart would create around that theme. It can be shared live or via video or email. We would like to our online and in-person community members to share their gifts a part of our celebration of Easter.

As you complete your work, email office@lafirstumc.org to let us know how you would like to present your portion of this offering.

[UPDATE: These art offering will be shown to the congregation on Easter Sunday. If you are a virtual member or would like to show your work of art or a recording of your work of art digitally, please email a copy to office@lafirstumc.org. If you would like to show your art work or performance live, just email the office to let us know what you are excited to share!]

If you are unsure of what to create but have a strong desire to participate, Sara Munshin has lovingly provided mandalas for people to color or paint in.

You can print out full sized copies here:

https://docs.google.com/document/d/14OZd0Z2m82myE2KFEHgAmZJhyL0BTNFJfVI56KPF6h0/edit?usp=sharing

All who need a meal on Sunday, young and old, are invited to come sit down at the table with us for a hot, catered breakfast to get their day started! Our volunteers will be acting as servers, so that all who come join us have time to sit and enjoy their breakfast

LA First UMC is starting this ministry with the hopes of helping to fill the need for hot meals served on the weekends when most meal-providing services are closed in DTLA.

LA First UMC's Sunday Breakfast Ministry

Sundays 8:30-9:30am Pacific Time
Outside, at the picnic tables, in the parking lot on the South East Corner of Olympic and Flower
Next to Villa Flores located at 1020 S Flower St

Update to Volunteering Process

In order for the hour to run smoothly and efficiently, Debbie has planned to have jobs for 6 volunteers each week. Don't worry there are plenty of Sundays to sign up for the rest of the year. Please reach out to Debbie to get on the volunteering calendar. She can be reached at debbie@lafirstumc.org. Once you are signed up to be one of the 6 volunteers for a given week, Debbie will send out an email the Friday or Saturday before your volunteer shift to confirm your participation.

It is with sadness that we inform you of the death of Eutha Hankinson, California Pacific Conference United Women in Faith President, on March 8, 2023. Eutha preached on UWF Sunday on January 29, and her memory and legacy are precious and dear to so many.

We give thanks to God for Eutha. Let us keep all who know and love her in our prayers.

UWF Scholarship Now Open!

UWF has opened their scholarship application in case anyone is interested.

https://uwfaith.org/latest-news/2023/united-women-in-faith-national-scholarship-2023/

UMCOR response to earthquakes in Turkey and Syria (Global Ministries)

Read the full story here.

Donate to UMCOR so that victims recieve 100% of your donation here.

COMMUNITY RESOURCES:

Cold and Wet Weather Reminder: LA Homeless Services Authority Winter Shelters Are Now Open Through March 31st

Motel vouchers are available and shelters operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Call 211 for a referral. https://www.lahsa.org/winter-shelter

Flash Flood Directions from the National Weather Serive:

Turn around, don't drown.

This is your reminder to never attempt to drive through flooded roads. It takes just 12 inches of rushing water to carry away a small car and 2 feet to carry away most vehicles.

Covid Testing:
Getting tested is now easier than ever with LA County's Pick-Up Testing Kits program. Visit ow.ly/tfIu50Hsnh5 for a list of locations where you can get a kit at no cost. The program will allow residents to pick up a PCR test kit & return it at designated locations. Results will be available within 24-48 hrs.

LA City is now offering free testing, without appointments at City-run sites. Find a site near you: Coronavirus.LACity.org/Testing
For additional COVID-19 resources: Coronavirus.LACity.org/Resources

CALL TO PRAYER: Turn Your Eyes - El Dorado

Joys and Concerns: We believe that the best way to bear our burdens is to share them with one another. You are invited 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.

First Reading: Psalm 23, NRSV
The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want.
   He makes me lie down in green pastures;
he leads me beside still waters;
   he restores my soul.
He leads me in right paths
   for his name’s sake.
Even though I walk through the darkest valley,
   I fear no evil;
for you are with me;
   your rod and your staff—
   they comfort me.
You prepare a table before me
   in the presence of my enemies;
you anoint my head with oil;
   my cup overflows.
Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me
   all the days of my life,
and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord
   my whole life long.

Scripture: John 9:1-41 NRSV - A Man Born Blind Receives Sight

As he walked along, he saw a man blind from birth. His disciples asked him, ‘Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?’Jesus answered, ‘Neither this man nor his parents sinned; he was born blind so that God’s works might be revealed in him. We must work the works of him who sent me while it is day; night is coming when no one can work. As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world.’ When he had said this, he spat on the ground and made mud with the saliva and spread the mud on the man’s eyes, saying to him, ‘Go, wash in the pool of Siloam’ (which means Sent). Then he went and washed and came back able to see. The neighbours and those who had seen him before as a beggar began to ask, ‘Is this not the man who used to sit and beg?’Some were saying, ‘It is he.’ Others were saying, ‘No, but it is someone like him.’ He kept saying, ‘I am the man.’ But they kept asking him, ‘Then how were your eyes opened?’ He answered, ‘The man called Jesus made mud, spread it on my eyes, and said to me, “Go to Siloam and wash.” Then I went and washed and received my sight.’ They said to him, ‘Where is he?’ He said, ‘I do not know.’

They brought to the Pharisees the man who had formerly been blind. Now it was a sabbath day when Jesus made the mud and opened his eyes.Then the Pharisees also began to ask him how he had received his sight. He said to them, ‘He put mud on my eyes. Then I washed, and now I see.’ Some of the Pharisees said, ‘This man is not from God, for he does not observe the sabbath.’ But others said, ‘How can a man who is a sinner perform such signs?’ And they were divided. So they said again to the blind man, ‘What do you say about him? It was your eyes he opened.’ He said, ‘He is a prophet.’

The Jews did not believe that he had been blind and had received his sight until they called the parents of the man who had received his sightand asked them, ‘Is this your son, who you say was born blind? How then does he now see?’ His parents answered, ‘We know that this is our son, and that he was born blind; but we do not know how it is that now he sees, nor do we know who opened his eyes. Ask him; he is of age. He will speak for himself.’ His parents said this because they were afraid of the Jews; for the Jews had already agreed that anyone who confessed Jesusto be the Messiah would be put out of the synagogue. Therefore his parents said, ‘He is of age; ask him.’

So for the second time they called the man who had been blind, and they said to him, ‘Give glory to God! We know that this man is a sinner.’ He answered, ‘I do not know whether he is a sinner. One thing I do know, that though I was blind, now I see.’ They said to him, ‘What did he do to you? How did he open your eyes?’ He answered them, ‘I have told you already, and you would not listen. Why do you want to hear it again? Do you also want to become his disciples?’ Then they reviled him, saying, ‘You are his disciple, but we are disciples of Moses. We know that God has spoken to Moses, but as for this man, we do not know where he comes from.’ The man answered, ‘Here is an astonishing thing! You do not know where he comes from, and yet he opened my eyes. We know that God does not listen to sinners, but he does listen to one who worships him and obeys his will. Never since the world began has it been heard that anyone opened the eyes of a person born blind. If this man were not from God, he could do nothing.’ They answered him, ‘You were born entirely in sins, and are you trying to teach us?’ And they drove him out.

Jesus heard that they had driven him out, and when he found him, he said, ‘Do you believe in the Son of Man?’ He answered, ‘And who is he, sir? Tell me, so that I may believe in him.’ Jesus said to him, ‘You have seen him, and the one speaking with you is he.’ He said, ‘Lord, I believe.’ And he worshipped him. Jesus said, ‘I came into this world for judgement so that those who do not see may see, and those who do see may become blind.’ Some of the Pharisees near him heard this and said to him, ‘Surely we are not blind, are we?’ Jesus said to them, ‘If you were blind, you would not have sin. But now that you say, “We see”, your sin remains.

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

Sermon: One Thing I Do Know - The Grace Which Becomes Before Our Knowing, Rev. 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.

CLOSING SONG: Everything In Its Right Place - El Dorado

Benediction 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. 

LA FIRST UMC LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT - authored by Tom Grode, affirmed by LA First UMC’s Church Council on July 13, 2021

We Acknowledge the Tongva people as original caretakers of this land and their ancient village Yaangna, what we call Downtown Los Angeles.

We Acknowledge the many Native Americans who moved Downtown to Bunker Hill due to the Indian Relocation Act of 1956 as “the 'old' Bunker Hill was effectively scalped by urban renewal in the 1960’s.”   

We Acknowledge the work of Skid Row Housing Justice activists in the 1960's and 70's to keep the low income hotel housing in Skid Row from suffering the Urban Renewal fate of Bunker Hill.

We Acknowledge the Native Indigenous peoples of Los Angeles, their special relationship to Mother Earth, and their hospitality, inviting us into that special relationship.

We Acknowledge the patience, kindness, and compassion of Mother Earth.

We Acknowledge our beginnings as a church in 1853 when Methodist leader Adam Bland was sent to evangelize the "rowdy and incorrigible” Southland.

We Acknowledge our relationship with Biddy Mason, one of the Matriarchs of early Los Angeles, and a member of Fort Street Methodist Episcopal Church (the first name our church bore) before she began First African Methodist Episcopal (FAME) out of her home, one of the spiritual pillars in Los Angeles for many decades.

We Acknowledge Biddy Mason as the Patron Saint of Downtown Los Angeles, an enslaved woman who fought for the freedom of all who were enslaved. She utilized her training as a midwife to buy land and used her wealth to help others in need.

We Acknowledge the words of Jesus "to whom much is given much is required" as a blessing for us to live out: the legacy and reality of owning the largest piece of undeveloped property in South Park.

Welcome to Tongvaland, Pamela J. Peters

We Acknowledge the land of Downtown Los Angeles - more than a dozen unique and dynamic neighborhoods - as land the eyes of the world look towards for leadership and solutions to the challenges facing all humanity.

We Acknowledge the mission of the United Methodist Church as founded by John Wesley: to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world.

Donate

Order of Worship for Sunday, March 12, 2023: Lent III - Justified By Faith

Call to Worship - You are invited to light a candle in your home to welcome the presence of the Holy Spirit

Living Faith - El Dorado

Welcome - Stephen Folds

Galileo - 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. 

LENT SERMON SERIES: SAVED BY GRACE
You are invited to pray the Lord’s Prayer every day at noon throughout Lent
February 26 - Temptation and the Nature of Sin
March 5 - What Does it Mean to Be Saved?
March 12 - Justified by Faith
March 19 - The Grace that Comes Before Our Knowing
March 26 - Is Resurrection Possible?
April 2 - Palm Sunday 🌿 - Jesus Christ Superstar!
April 7 - Good Friday - Virtual Service at Noon PT
April 9 - Easter Sunday - Set Your Minds on Things That Are Above
April 16 - Sabbath Sunday

Calling all arts submissions for “The Light in All of Us” LA First UMC community-wide Easter Arts Offering!

What does the phrase “The Light in All of Us” inspire in you? Does it spring forth as a tune, a painting, a poem, a painting, a lego sculpture, a film, a scene, etc? We are a church community filled with artists with many diverse gifts. We would love to hear what comes from your soul, what your heart would create around that theme. It can be shared live or via video or email. We would like to our online and in-person community members to share their gifts a part of our celebration of Easter.

As you complete your work, email office@lafirstumc.org to let us know how you would like to present your portion of this offering.

[NEW DATE] UWF Field Trip the to Museum of Social Justice

Our United Women in Faith will now be taking an hour long tour on Saturday March 11th to see the new exhibit before everyone disperses for the day. At 10:30am, those who want to carpool can meet in our parking lot and drive together to La Plaza. All in our church community are welcome. If you are interested, please reach out to Sara Munshin to let her know you would like to participate.

All who need a meal on Sunday, young and old, are invited to come sit down at the table with us for a hot, catered breakfast to get their day started! Our volunteers will be acting as servers, so that all who come join us have time to sit and enjoy their breakfast

LA First UMC is starting this ministry with the hopes of helping to fill the need for hot meals served on the weekends when most meal-providing services are closed in DTLA.

LA First UMC's Sunday Breakfast Ministry

Sundays 8:30-9:30am Pacific Time
Outside, at the picnic tables, in the parking lot on the South East Corner of Olympic and Flower
Next to Villa Flores located at 1020 S Flower St

Update to Volunteering Process

In order for the hour to run smoothly and efficiently, Debbie has planned to have jobs for 6 volunteers each week. Don't worry there are plenty of Sundays to sign up for the rest of the year. Please reach out to Debbie to get on the volunteering calendar. She can be reached at debbie@lafirstumc.org. Once you are signed up to be one of the 6 volunteers for a given week, Debbie will send out an email the Friday or Saturday before your volunteer shift to confirm your participation.

It is with sadness that we inform you of the death of Eutha Hankinson, California Pacific Conference United Women in Faith President, on March 9, 2023. Eutha preached on UWF Sunday on January 29, and her memory and legacy are precious and dear to so many.

We give thanks to God for Eutha. Let us keep all who know and love her in our prayers.

UWF Scholarship Now Open!

UWF has opened their scholarship application in case anyone is interested.

https://uwfaith.org/latest-news/2023/united-women-in-faith-national-scholarship-2023/

UMCOR response to earthquakes in Turkey and Syria (Global Ministries)

Read the full story here.

Donate to UMCOR so that victims recieve 100% of your donation here.

COMMUNITY RESOURCES:

Cold and Wet Weather Reminder: LA Homeless Services Authority Winter Shelters Are Now Open Through March 31st

Motel vouchers are available and shelters operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Call 211 for a referral. https://www.lahsa.org/winter-shelter

Flash Flood Directions from the National Weather Serive:

Turn around, don't drown.

This is your reminder to never attempt to drive through flooded roads. It takes just 12 inches of rushing water to carry away a small car and 2 feet to carry away most vehicles.

Covid Testing:
Getting tested is now easier than ever with LA County's Pick-Up Testing Kits program. Visit ow.ly/tfIu50Hsnh5 for a list of locations where you can get a kit at no cost. The program will allow residents to pick up a PCR test kit & return it at designated locations. Results will be available within 24-48 hrs.

LA City is now offering free testing, without appointments at City-run sites. Find a site near you: Coronavirus.LACity.org/Testing
For additional COVID-19 resources: Coronavirus.LACity.org/Resources

CALL TO PRAYER: From the Dust - El Dorado

Joys and Concerns: We believe that the best way to bear our burdens is to share them with one another. You are invited 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.

First Reading: Exodus 17:1-7, NRSV - Water from the Rock

From the wilderness of Sin the whole congregation of the Israelites journeyed by stages, as the Lord commanded. They camped at Rephidim, but there was no water for the people to drink. The people quarrelled with Moses, and said, ‘Give us water to drink.’ Moses said to them, ‘Why do you quarrel with me? Why do you test the Lord?’ But the people thirsted there for water; and the people complained against Moses and said, ‘Why did you bring us out of Egypt, to kill us and our children and livestock with thirst?’ So Moses cried out to the Lord, ‘What shall I do with this people? They are almost ready to stone me.’ The Lord said to Moses, ‘Go on ahead of the people, and take some of the elders of Israel with you; take in your hand the staff with which you struck the Nile, and go. I will be standing there in front of you on the rock at Horeb. Strike the rock, and water will come out of it, so that the people may drink.’ Moses did so, in the sight of the elders of Israel. He called the place Massah and Meribah, because the Israelites quarrelled and tested the Lord, saying, ‘Is the Lord among us or not?’

Scripture: John 4:5-42 NRSV

So he came to a Samaritan city called Sychar, near the plot of ground that Jacob had given to his son Joseph. Jacob’s well was there, and Jesus, tired out by his journey, was sitting by the well. It was about noon.

A Samaritan woman came to draw water, and Jesus said to her, ‘Give me a drink’. (His disciples had gone to the city to buy food.) The Samaritan woman said to him, ‘How is it that you, a Jew, ask a drink of me, a woman of Samaria?’ (Jews do not share things in common with Samaritans.) Jesus answered her, ‘If you knew the gift of God, and who it is that is saying to you, “Give me a drink”, you would have asked him, and he would have given you living water.’ The woman said to him, ‘Sir, you have no bucket, and the well is deep. Where do you get that living water? Are you greater than our ancestor Jacob, who gave us the well, and with his sons and his flocks drank from it?’ Jesus said to her, ‘Everyone who drinks of this water will be thirsty again, but those who drink of the water that I will give them will never be thirsty. The water that I will give will become in them a spring of water gushing up to eternal life.’ The woman said to him, ‘Sir, give me this water, so that I may never be thirsty or have to keep coming here to draw water.’

Jesus said to her, ‘Go, call your husband, and come back.’ The woman answered him, ‘I have no husband.’ Jesus said to her, ‘You are right in saying, “I have no husband”; for you have had five husbands, and the one you have now is not your husband. What you have said is true!’ The woman said to him, ‘Sir, I see that you are a prophet. Our ancestors worshipped on this mountain, but you say that the place where people must worship is in Jerusalem.’ Jesus said to her, ‘Woman, believe me, the hour is coming when you will worship the Father neither on this mountain nor in Jerusalem. You worship what you do not know; we worship what we know, for salvation is from the Jews. But the hour is coming, and is now here, when the true worshippers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for the Father seeks such as these to worship him. God is spirit, and those who worship him must worship in spirit and truth.’ The woman said to him, ‘I know that Messiah is coming’ (who is called Christ). ‘When he comes, he will proclaim all things to us.’ Jesus said to her, ‘I am he,the one who is speaking to you.’

Just then his disciples came. They were astonished that he was speaking with a woman, but no one said, ‘What do you want?’ or, ‘Why are you speaking with her?’ Then the woman left her water-jar and went back to the city. She said to the people, ‘Come and see a man who told me everything I have ever done! He cannot be the Messiah, can he?’ They left the city and were on their way to him.

Meanwhile the disciples were urging him, ‘Rabbi, eat something.’ But he said to them, ‘I have food to eat that you do not know about.’ So the disciples said to one another, ‘Surely no one has brought him something to eat?’ Jesus said to them, ‘My food is to do the will of him who sent me and to complete his work. Do you not say, “Four months more, then comes the harvest”? But I tell you, look around you, and see how the fields are ripe for harvesting. The reaper is already receiving wages and is gathering fruit for eternal life, so that sower and reaper may rejoice together. For here the saying holds true, “One sows and another reaps.” I sent you to reap that for which you did not labour. Others have laboured, and you have entered into their labor.’

Many Samaritans from that city believed in him because of the woman’s testimony, ‘He told me everything I have ever done.’ So when the Samaritans came to him, they asked him to stay with them; and he stayed there for two days. And many more believed because of his word.They said to the woman, ‘It is no longer because of what you said that we believe, for we have heard for ourselves, and we know that this is truly the Saviour of the world.’

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

The Red Rose - The Everybodyfields

When walking one day down a dusty trail in the mountain
I saw your fence and I climbed it down to the ground
On the ground I walked and on the rock there was your still
There was your still

There's a bar in Alabama, and it's called The Red Rose
And I go there when I'm thirsty; that's the only reason I suppose
There was a man beside me
For ten long years I stayed at home
But that man has gone and left me to do some drinking on his own

And I think God is a moonshiner
His skin is gold from the whiskey in his blood
I think in heaven there is a bar room
A place where men go forget about their wives

The sun's rising when I'm drinking, and it sets while I'm asleep
And I drag my loneliness to the next bar that I see

And I think God is a moonshiner
His skin is gold from the whiskey in his blood
I think in heaven there is a bar room
A place where men go forget about their wives

I know I've had enough of this town
There's not much more for me to see
But there's Bibles falling from the skies down here
And I don't think God has time for me

I think God is a moonshiner
His skin is gold from the whiskey in his blood
I think in heaven there is a bar room
A place where men go forget about their wives

I walked to your still, and I drank my fill on the rock

Sermon: Justified by Faith: I Drank My Fill on the Rock, 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.

CLOSING SONG: Typical - El Dorado

Benediction 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. 

LA FIRST UMC LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT - authored by Tom Grode, affirmed by LA First UMC’s Church Council on July 13, 2021

We Acknowledge the Tongva people as original caretakers of this land and their ancient village Yaangna, what we call Downtown Los Angeles.

We Acknowledge the many Native Americans who moved Downtown to Bunker Hill due to the Indian Relocation Act of 1956 as “the 'old' Bunker Hill was effectively scalped by urban renewal in the 1960’s.”   

We Acknowledge the work of Skid Row Housing Justice activists in the 1960's and 70's to keep the low income hotel housing in Skid Row from suffering the Urban Renewal fate of Bunker Hill.

We Acknowledge the Native Indigenous peoples of Los Angeles, their special relationship to Mother Earth, and their hospitality, inviting us into that special relationship.

We Acknowledge the patience, kindness, and compassion of Mother Earth.

We Acknowledge our beginnings as a church in 1853 when Methodist leader Adam Bland was sent to evangelize the "rowdy and incorrigible” Southland.

We Acknowledge our relationship with Biddy Mason, one of the Matriarchs of early Los Angeles, and a member of Fort Street Methodist Episcopal Church (the first name our church bore) before she began First African Methodist Episcopal (FAME) out of her home, one of the spiritual pillars in Los Angeles for many decades.

We Acknowledge Biddy Mason as the Patron Saint of Downtown Los Angeles, an enslaved woman who fought for the freedom of all who were enslaved. She utilized her training as a midwife to buy land and used her wealth to help others in need.

We Acknowledge the words of Jesus "to whom much is given much is required" as a blessing for us to live out: the legacy and reality of owning the largest piece of undeveloped property in South Park.

Welcome to Tongvaland, Pamela J. Peters

We Acknowledge the land of Downtown Los Angeles - more than a dozen unique and dynamic neighborhoods - as land the eyes of the world look towards for leadership and solutions to the challenges facing all humanity.

We Acknowledge the mission of the United Methodist Church as founded by John Wesley: to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world.

Donate

Order of Worship for Sunday, March 5, 2023: Lent II - What Does It Mean to Be Saved?

Call to Worship - You are invited to light a candle in your home to welcome the presence of the Holy Spirit

Amazing Grace (My Chains Are Gone) - El Dorado

Welcome - Stephen Folds

Galileo - 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. 

LENT SERMON SERIES: SAVED BY GRACE
You are invited to pray the Lord’s Prayer every day at noon throughout Lent
February 26 - Temptation and the Nature of Sin
March 5 - What Does it Mean to Be Saved?
March 12 - Justified by Faith
March 19 - The Grace that Comes Before Our Knowing
March 26 - Is Resurrection Possible?
April 2 - Palm Sunday 🌿 - Jesus Christ Superstar!
April 7 - Good Friday - Virtual Service at Noon PT
April 9 - Easter Sunday - Set Your Minds on Things That Are Above
April 16 - Sabbath Sunday

Calling all arts submissions for “The Light in All of Us” LA First UMC community-wide Easter Arts Offering!

What does the phrase “The Light in All of Us” inspire in you? Does it spring forth as a tune, a painting, a poem, a painting, a lego sculpture, a film, a scene, etc? We are a church community filled with artists with many diverse gifts. We would love to hear what comes from your soul, what your heart would create around that theme. It can be shared live or via video or email. We would like to our online and in-person community members to share their gifts a part of our celebration of Easter.

As you complete your work, email office@lafirstumc.org to let us know how you would like to present your portion of this offering.

[NEW DATE] UWF Field Trip the to Museum of Social Justice

Our United Women in Faith will now be taking an hour long tour on Saturday March 11th to see the new exhibit before everyone disperses for the day. At 10:30am, those who want to carpool can meet in our parking lot and drive together to La Plaza. All in our church community are welcome. If you are interested, please reach out to Sara Munshin to let her know you would like to participate.

All who need a meal on Sunday, young and old, are invited to come sit down at the table with us for a hot, catered breakfast to get their day started! Our volunteers will be acting as servers, so that all who come join us have time to sit and enjoy their breakfast

LA First UMC is starting this ministry with the hopes of helping to fill the need for hot meals served on the weekends when most meal-providing services are closed in DTLA.

LA First UMC's Sunday Breakfast Ministry

Sundays 8:30-9:30am Pacific Time
Outside, at the picnic tables, in the parking lot on the South East Corner of Olympic and Flower
Next to Villa Flores located at 1020 S Flower St

Update to Volunteering Process

In order for the hour to run smoothly and efficiently, Debbie has planned to have jobs for 6 volunteers each week. Don't worry there are plenty of Sundays to sign up for the rest of the year. Please reach out to Debbie to get on the volunteering calendar. She can be reached at debbie@lafirstumc.org. Once you are signed up to be one of the 6 volunteers for a given week, Debbie will send out an email the Friday or Saturday before your volunteer shift to confirm your participation.

UWF Scholarship Now Open!

UWF has opened their scholarship application in case anyone is interested.

https://uwfaith.org/latest-news/2023/united-women-in-faith-national-scholarship-2023/

UMCOR response to earthquakes in Turkey and Syria (Global Ministries)

Read the full story here.

Donate to UMCOR so that victims recieve 100% of your donation here.

COMMUNITY RESOURCES:

Cold and Wet Weather Reminder: LA Homeless Services Authority Winter Shelters Are Now Open Through March 31st

Motel vouchers are available and shelters operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Call 211 for a referral. https://www.lahsa.org/winter-shelter

Flash Flood Directions from the National Weather Serive:

Turn around, don't drown.

This is your reminder to never attempt to drive through flooded roads. It takes just 12 inches of rushing water to carry away a small car and 2 feet to carry away most vehicles.

Covid Testing:
Getting tested is now easier than ever with LA County's Pick-Up Testing Kits program. Visit ow.ly/tfIu50Hsnh5 for a list of locations where you can get a kit at no cost. The program will allow residents to pick up a PCR test kit & return it at designated locations. Results will be available within 24-48 hrs.

LA City is now offering free testing, without appointments at City-run sites. Find a site near you: Coronavirus.LACity.org/Testing
For additional COVID-19 resources: Coronavirus.LACity.org/Resources

CALL TO PRAYER: When I Survey the Wondrous Cross - El Dorado

Joys and Concerns: We believe that the best way to bear our burdens is to share them with one another. You are invited 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.

First Reading: Genesis 12:1-4, NRSV

Now the Lord said to Abram, ‘Go from your country and your kindred and your father’s house to the land that I will show you. I will make of you a great nation, and I will bless you, and make your name great, so that you will be a blessing. I will bless those who bless you, and the one who curses you I will curse; and in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed.’

So Abram went, as the Lord had told him; and Lot went with him. Abram was seventy-five years old when he departed from Haran.

Scripture: John 3:1-17 NRSV

Now there was a Pharisee named Nicodemus, a leader of the Jews. He came to Jesus by night and said to him, ‘Rabbi, we know that you are a teacher who has come from God; for no one can do these signs that you do apart from the presence of God.’ Jesus answered him, ‘Very truly, I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God without being born from above.’Nicodemus said to him, ‘How can anyone be born after having grown old? Can one enter a second time into the mother’s womb and be born?’ Jesus answered, ‘Very truly, I tell you, no one can enter the kingdom of God without being born of water and Spirit. What is born of the flesh is flesh, and what is born of the Spirit is spirit. Do not be astonished that I said to you, “You must be born from above.” The wind blows where it chooses, and you hear the sound of it, but you do not know where it comes from or where it goes. So it is with everyone who is born of the Spirit.’Nicodemus said to him, ‘How can these things be?’ Jesus answered him, ‘Are you a teacher of Israel, and yet you do not understand these things?

‘Very truly, I tell you, we speak of what we know and testify to what we have seen; yet you do not receive our testimony. If I have told you about earthly things and you do not believe, how can you believe if I tell you about heavenly things? No one has ascended into heaven except the one who descended from heaven, the Son of Man. And just as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, so must the Son of Man be lifted up, that whoever believes in him may have eternal life.

‘For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not perish but may have eternal life.

‘Indeed, God did not send the Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him.

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

Sermon: What Does It Mean to Be Saved?, 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.

CLOSING SONG: Fix You - El Dorado

Benediction 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. 

LA FIRST UMC LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT - authored by Tom Grode, affirmed by LA First UMC’s Church Council on July 13, 2021

We Acknowledge the Tongva people as original caretakers of this land and their ancient village Yaangna, what we call Downtown Los Angeles.

We Acknowledge the many Native Americans who moved Downtown to Bunker Hill due to the Indian Relocation Act of 1956 as “the 'old' Bunker Hill was effectively scalped by urban renewal in the 1960’s.”   

We Acknowledge the work of Skid Row Housing Justice activists in the 1960's and 70's to keep the low income hotel housing in Skid Row from suffering the Urban Renewal fate of Bunker Hill.

We Acknowledge the Native Indigenous peoples of Los Angeles, their special relationship to Mother Earth, and their hospitality, inviting us into that special relationship.

We Acknowledge the patience, kindness, and compassion of Mother Earth.

We Acknowledge our beginnings as a church in 1853 when Methodist leader Adam Bland was sent to evangelize the "rowdy and incorrigible” Southland.

We Acknowledge our relationship with Biddy Mason, one of the Matriarchs of early Los Angeles, and a member of Fort Street Methodist Episcopal Church (the first name our church bore) before she began First African Methodist Episcopal (FAME) out of her home, one of the spiritual pillars in Los Angeles for many decades.

We Acknowledge Biddy Mason as the Patron Saint of Downtown Los Angeles, an enslaved woman who fought for the freedom of all who were enslaved. She utilized her training as a midwife to buy land and used her wealth to help others in need.

We Acknowledge the words of Jesus "to whom much is given much is required" as a blessing for us to live out: the legacy and reality of owning the largest piece of undeveloped property in South Park.

Welcome to Tongvaland, Pamela J. Peters

We Acknowledge the land of Downtown Los Angeles - more than a dozen unique and dynamic neighborhoods - as land the eyes of the world look towards for leadership and solutions to the challenges facing all humanity.

We Acknowledge the mission of the United Methodist Church as founded by John Wesley: to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world.

Donate

Order of Worship for Sunday, February 26, 2023: Lent I - Temptation and the Nature of Sin

Call to Worship - You are invited to light a candle in your home to welcome the presence of the Holy Spirit

Typical - El Dorado

Welcome - Stephen Folds

Come Ye Sinners - 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. 

LENT SERMON SERIES: SAVED BY GRACE
You are invited to pray the Lord’s Prayer every day at noon throughout Lent
February 26 - Temptation and the Nature of Sin
March 5 - What Does it Mean to Be Saved?
March 12 - Justified by Faith
March 19 - The Grace that Comes Before Our Knowing
March 26 - Is Resurrection Possible?
April 2 - Palm Sunday 🌿 - Jesus Christ Superstar!
April 7 - Good Friday - Virtual Service at Noon PT
April 9 - Easter Sunday - Set Your Minds on Things That Are Above
April 16 - Sabbath Sunday

Calling all arts submissions for “The Light in All of Us” LA First UMC community-wide Easter Arts Offering!

What does the phrase “The Light in All of Us” inspire in you? Does it spring forth as a tune, a painting, a poem, a painting, a lego sculpture, a film, a scene, etc? We are a church community filled with artists with many diverse gifts. We would love to hear what comes from your soul, what your heart would create around that theme. It can be shared live or via video or email. We would like to our online and in-person community members to share their gifts a part of our celebration of Easter.

As you complete your work, email office@lafirstumc.org to let us know how you would like to present your portion of this offering.

[NEW DATE] UWF Field Trip the to Museum of Social Justice

Our United Women in Faith will now be taking an hour long tour on Saturday March 11th to see the new exhibit before everyone disperses for the day. At 10:30am, those who want to carpool can meet in our parking lot and drive together to La Plaza. All in our church community are welcome. If you are interested, please reach out to Sara Munshin to let her know you would like to participate.

All who need a meal on Sunday, young and old, are invited to come sit down at the table with us for a hot, catered breakfast to get their day started! Our volunteers will be acting as servers, so that all who come join us have time to sit and enjoy their breakfast

LA First UMC is starting this ministry with the hopes of helping to fill the need for hot meals served on the weekends when most meal-providing services are closed in DTLA.

LA First UMC's Sunday Breakfast Ministry

Sundays 8:30-9:30am Pacific Time
Outside, at the picnic tables, in the parking lot on the South East Corner of Olympic and Flower
Next to Villa Flores located at 1020 S Flower St

Update to Volunteering Process

In order for the hour to run smoothly and efficiently, Debbie has planned to have jobs for 6 volunteers each week. Don't worry there are plenty of Sundays to sign up for the rest of the year. Please reach out to Debbie to get on the volunteering calendar. She can be reached at debbie@lafirstumc.org. Once you are signed up to be one of the 6 volunteers for a given week, Debbie will send out an email the Friday or Saturday before your volunteer shift to confirm your participation.

Visit the Cal-Pac Conference's Race and Religion Blog for 29 suggestions of ways you can honor Black History this month.

UMCOR response to earthquakes in Turkey and Syria (Global Ministries)

Read the full story here.

Donate to UMCOR so that victims recieve 100% of your donation here.

Call for Volunteers to Join the Cal-Pac CA Legislative Advocacy Team (Justice & Compassion): Affordable Housing, Homelessness, and Food Security   

First Meeting – Wednesday, March 1 @ 6:00 pm PST on Zoom 
http://www.calpacumc.org/advocacyteamsignup 

We all know that affordable housing, homelessness, and food insecurity are painful, urgent needs in Southern California. State legislators are working hard to change laws and provide incentives that would prioritize solutions. As people of faith, we have the power to influence the legislative process, not only with our prayers of Thy Kingdom Come, but also with our votes and voices.  

When you join this Advocacy Team, you’ll be invited to monthly advocacy meetings, where you’ll receive policy updates from experts, along with action items for you and your church. You’ll find out which institutional partners and legislators share your faith-based priorities, and which ones need some convincing. Here is an opportunity to step into both personal and social holiness.  

We’ll begin with SB4, which would clear obstacles that prevent us from building affordable housing on land owned by faith-based institutions.  Policy advocates are actively organizing around this now! Join in the action!  

SB4 Presenters on March 1: 

  • Mahdi Manji, Director of Public Policy, Inner City Law Center

  • Frank Martinez, Policy Director, Southern California Association of NonProfit Housing (SCANPH)

Register now for the first gathering on Wednesday, March 1 @ 6:00 pm on Zoom via the button Here. 

COMMUNITY RESOURCES:

Cold and Wet Weather Reminder: LA Homeless Services Authority Winter Shelters Are Now Open Through March 31st

Motel vouchers are available and shelters operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Call 211 for a referral. https://www.lahsa.org/winter-shelter

Flash Flood Directions from the National Weather Serive:

Turn around, don't drown.

This is your reminder to never attempt to drive through flooded roads. It takes just 12 inches of rushing water to carry away a small car and 2 feet to carry away most vehicles.

Covid Testing:
Getting tested is now easier than ever with LA County's Pick-Up Testing Kits program. Visit ow.ly/tfIu50Hsnh5 for a list of locations where you can get a kit at no cost. The program will allow residents to pick up a PCR test kit & return it at designated locations. Results will be available within 24-48 hrs.

LA City is now offering free testing, without appointments at City-run sites. Find a site near you: Coronavirus.LACity.org/Testing
For additional COVID-19 resources: Coronavirus.LACity.org/Resources

CALL TO PRAYER: When I Survey the Wondrous Cross - El Dorado

Joys and Concerns: We believe that the best way to bear our burdens is to share them with one another. You are invited 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.

First Reading: Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7, NRSV

The Lord God took the man and put him in the garden of Eden to till it and keep it. And the Lord God commanded the man, ‘You may freely eat of every tree of the garden; but of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil you shall not eat, for in the day that you eat of it you shall die.’

Now the serpent was more crafty than any other wild animal that the LordGod had made. He said to the woman, ‘Did God say, “You shall not eat from any tree in the garden”?’ The woman said to the serpent, ‘We may eat of the fruit of the trees in the garden; but God said, “You shall not eat of the fruit of the tree that is in the middle of the garden, nor shall you touch it, or you shall die.” ’ But the serpent said to the woman, ‘You will not die; for God knows that when you eat of it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil.’ So when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was a delight to the eyes, and that the tree was to be desired to make one wise, she took of its fruit and ate; and she also gave some to her husband, who was with her, and he ate. Then the eyes of both were opened, and they knew that they were naked; and they sewed fig leaves together and made loincloths for themselves.

Scripture: Matthew 4:1-11 NRSV - The Temptation of Jesus

Then Jesus was led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil. He fasted for forty days and forty nights, and afterwards he was famished. The tempter came and said to him, ‘If you are the Son of God, command these stones to become loaves of bread.’ But he answered, ‘It is written,
“One does not live by bread alone,
   but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.” ’

Then the devil took him to the holy city and placed him on the pinnacle of the temple, saying to him, ‘If you are the Son of God, throw yourself down; for it is written,
“He will command his angels concerning you”,
   and “On their hands they will bear you up,
so that you will not dash your foot against a stone.” ’
Jesus said to him, ‘Again it is written, “Do not put the Lord your God to the test.” ’

Again, the devil took him to a very high mountain and showed him all the kingdoms of the world and their splendour; and he said to him, ‘All these I will give you, if you will fall down and worship me.’ Jesus said to him, ‘Away with you, Satan! for it is written,
“Worship the Lord your God,
   and serve only him.” ’
Then the devil left him, and suddenly angels came and waited on him.

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

Sermon: Temptation and the Nature of Sin, 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.

CLOSING SONG: From the Dust - El Dorado

Benediction 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. 

LA FIRST UMC LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT - authored by Tom Grode, affirmed by LA First UMC’s Church Council on July 13, 2021

We Acknowledge the Tongva people as original caretakers of this land and their ancient village Yaangna, what we call Downtown Los Angeles.

We Acknowledge the many Native Americans who moved Downtown to Bunker Hill due to the Indian Relocation Act of 1956 as “the 'old' Bunker Hill was effectively scalped by urban renewal in the 1960’s.”   

We Acknowledge the work of Skid Row Housing Justice activists in the 1960's and 70's to keep the low income hotel housing in Skid Row from suffering the Urban Renewal fate of Bunker Hill.

We Acknowledge the Native Indigenous peoples of Los Angeles, their special relationship to Mother Earth, and their hospitality, inviting us into that special relationship.

We Acknowledge the patience, kindness, and compassion of Mother Earth.

We Acknowledge our beginnings as a church in 1853 when Methodist leader Adam Bland was sent to evangelize the "rowdy and incorrigible” Southland.

We Acknowledge our relationship with Biddy Mason, one of the Matriarchs of early Los Angeles, and a member of Fort Street Methodist Episcopal Church (the first name our church bore) before she began First African Methodist Episcopal (FAME) out of her home, one of the spiritual pillars in Los Angeles for many decades.

We Acknowledge Biddy Mason as the Patron Saint of Downtown Los Angeles, an enslaved woman who fought for the freedom of all who were enslaved. She utilized her training as a midwife to buy land and used her wealth to help others in need.

We Acknowledge the words of Jesus "to whom much is given much is required" as a blessing for us to live out: the legacy and reality of owning the largest piece of undeveloped property in South Park.

Welcome to Tongvaland, Pamela J. Peters

We Acknowledge the land of Downtown Los Angeles - more than a dozen unique and dynamic neighborhoods - as land the eyes of the world look towards for leadership and solutions to the challenges facing all humanity.

We Acknowledge the mission of the United Methodist Church as founded by John Wesley: to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world.

Donate

Order of Worship for Ash Wednesday 2023

Call to Worship - You are invited to light a candle in your home to welcome the presence of the Holy Spirit

Remain - El Dorado

Passing of the Peace: Through the act of passing the peace of Christ, we offer our sincere desire to love our neighbor.

CALL TO CONFESSION - Joel 2:12-13

The prophet Joel cried out:
Return to the Lord with all your heart,
with fasting, with weeping, and with mourning;
rend your hearts and not your clothing.
For God is gracious and merciful, slow to anger,
and abounding in steadfast love.
Let us confess our sins and repent of our unrighteousness:

PRAYER OF CONFESSION - Isaiah 58:4-7, Joel 2:17

Merciful God, we confess that we are a rebellious people.
We have broken your covenant, and we have tolerated injustice in our land.
We have not shared our food with the hungry,
We have not sheltered the homeless,
and we have not aided the sick and destitute.
We quarrel and fight among ourselves,
and we use religion to cover our deceit.
We have become a mockery of our heritage;
the world looks at us and asks, Where is their God?
Forgive us, O God.
Subdue our rebellious hearts and restore in us the light of salvation;
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

A Moment of Consideration: Come, Ye Sinners - El Dorado

Prepare
Reconcile
Repent
Mercy
Mortality
Know Yourself
Prayer
Fasting
Deny Yourself
Read Scripture
Listen
Silence
Dust
Ashes
Kneel . . . Now

DECLARATION OF FORGIVENESS - Isaiah 58:9b-10

If you remove the yoke from among you,
the pointing of the finger, the speaking of evil,
if you offer your food to the hungry and satisfy the needs of the afflicted,
then your light shall rise in the darkness and your gloom be like the noonday.
In the name of Jesus Christ, know that you are forgiven and rejoice.
Thanks be to God!

BLESSING OF THE OIL, ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF THE ASHES

Bless, O God, these ashes and those who receive them.
Let them be for us a remidner of our mortality,
a call to sincere repentance,
and a testimony to your abundant mercy in Jesus Christ. Amen.

Remember that you are dust.
Remember, for your sake, God created the world.

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.

A Song of Hope: From the Dust - El Dorado

Benediction: Isaiah 58:6-8

Beloved, observe a Holy Lent:
Loose the bonds of injustice,
Break the yoke of oppression,
Feed the hungry,
Shelter the poor.
With the blessing of God our creator, Christ our redeemer, and the Spirit our sustainer,
receive the promise of Isaiah:
Your light shall break forth like the dawn,
and your healing shall spring up quickly;
God your protector shall go before you,
and the glory of the Lord shall be your guard.

Go in peace to love and serve God, in all that you do.
Amen.

Order of Worship for Sunday, February 19, 2023: The Light in All of Us, Stephen Folds, Preaching

Call to Worship - You are invited to light a candle in your home to welcome the presence of the Holy Spirit

Brighter Days - El Dorado

Welcome - Stephen Folds

Fix You - 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. 

LENT SERMON SERIES: SAVED BY GRACE

February 22 - Ash Wednesday - Virtual Service at Noon PT
You are invited to pray the Lord’s Prayer every day at noon throughout Lent
February 26 - Temptation and the Nature of Sin
March 5 - What Does it Mean to Be Saved?
March 12 - Justified by Faith
March 19 - The Grace that Comes Before Our Knowing
March 26 - Is Resurrection Possible?
April 2 - Palm Sunday 🌿 - Jesus Christ Superstar!
April 7 - Good Friday - Virtual Service at Noon PT
April 9 - Easter Sunday - Set Your Minds on Things That Are Above
April 16 - Sabbath Sunday

All who need a meal on Sunday, young and old, are invited to come sit down at the table with us for a hot, catered breakfast to get their day started! Our volunteers will be acting as servers, so that all who come join us have time to sit and enjoy their breakfast

LA First UMC is starting this ministry with the hopes of helping to fill the need for hot meals served on the weekends when most meal-providing services are closed in DTLA.

LA First UMC's Sunday Breakfast Ministry

Sundays 8:30-9:30am Pacific Time
Outside, at the picnic tables, in the parking lot on the South East Corner of Olympic and Flower
Next to Villa Flores located at 1020 S Flower St

Update to Volunteering Process

In order for the hour to run smoothly and efficiently, Debbie has planned to have jobs for 6 volunteers each week. Don't worry there are plenty of Sundays to sign up for the rest of the year. Please reach out to Debbie to get on the volunteering calendar. She can be reached at debbie@lafirstumc.org. Once you are signed up to be one of the 6 volunteers for a given week, Debbie will send out an email the Friday or Saturday before your volunteer shift to confirm your participation.

COMMUNITY RESOURCES:

The LA Art Show, the largest commercial art fair in North America

Our Member, Tom Grode will be curating his “DIVERSEartLA” space again this year. This year’s theme is Climate Change with a focus on Water. Tom says, “My nonprofit partner is Homeless Healthcare LA, a large Citywide nonprofit that does a lot of work in Skid Row. Homeless Health Care is known in Skid Row as the primary nonprofit for the Refresh Spot and founders of the Skid Row Center for Harm Reduction.”

A day pass for the Art Show, which runs this year between February 16-19 at the Downtown Convention Center, is $30. Info at: https://www.laartshow.com/

LA Homeless Services Authority Winter Shelters Are Now Open Through March 31st
Shelters operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Call 211 for a referral. https://www.lahsa.org/winter-shelter

Covid Testing:
Getting tested is now easier than ever with LA County's Pick-Up Testing Kits program. Visit ow.ly/tfIu50Hsnh5 for a list of locations where you can get a kit at no cost. The program will allow residents to pick up a PCR test kit & return it at designated locations. Results will be available within 24-48 hrs.

LA City is now offering free testing, without appointments at City-run sites. Find a site near you: Coronavirus.LACity.org/Testing
For additional COVID-19 resources: Coronavirus.LACity.org/Resources

CALL TO PRAYER: From the Dust - El Dorado

Joys and Concerns: We believe that the best way to bear our burdens is to share them with one another. You are invited 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.

First Reading: Exodus 24:12-18, NRSV
The Lord said to Moses, ‘Come up to me on the mountain, and wait there; and I will give you the tablets of stone, with the law and the commandment, which I have written for their instruction.’ So Moses set out with his assistant Joshua, and Moses went up into the mountain of God. To the elders he had said, ‘Wait here for us, until we come to you again; for Aaron and Hur are with you; whoever has a dispute may go to them.’

Then Moses went up on the mountain, and the cloud covered the mountain. The glory of the Lord settled on Mount Sinai, and the cloud covered it for six days; on the seventh day he called to Moses out of the cloud. Now the appearance of the glory of the Lord was like a devouring fire on the top of the mountain in the sight of the people of Israel. Moses entered the cloud, and went up on the mountain. Moses was on the mountain for forty days and forty nights.

Gospel Reading: Matthew 17:1-9, NRSV - The Transfiguration

Six days later, Jesus took with him Peter and James and his brother John and led them up a high mountain, by themselves. And he was transfigured before them, and his face shone like the sun, and his clothes became dazzling white. Suddenly there appeared to them Moses and Elijah, talking with him. Then Peter said to Jesus, ‘Lord, it is good for us to be here; if you wish, I will make three dwellings here, one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah.’ While he was still speaking, suddenly a bright cloud overshadowed them, and from the cloud a voice said, ‘This is my Son, the Beloved; with him I am well pleased; listen to him!’ When the disciples heard this, they fell to the ground and were overcome by fear. But Jesus came and touched them, saying, ‘Get up and do not be afraid.’ And when they looked up, they saw no one except Jesus himself alone.

As they were coming down the mountain, Jesus ordered them, ‘Tell no one about the vision until after the Son of Man has been raised from the dead.’

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

Sermon: The Light in All of Us, Stephen Folds, Preaching

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.

CLOSING SONG: Times Like These - El Dorado

Benediction 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. 

LA FIRST UMC LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT - authored by Tom Grode, affirmed by LA First UMC’s Church Council on July 13, 2021

We Acknowledge the Tongva people as original caretakers of this land and their ancient village Yaangna, what we call Downtown Los Angeles.

We Acknowledge the many Native Americans who moved Downtown to Bunker Hill due to the Indian Relocation Act of 1956 as “the 'old' Bunker Hill was effectively scalped by urban renewal in the 1960’s.”   

We Acknowledge the work of Skid Row Housing Justice activists in the 1960's and 70's to keep the low income hotel housing in Skid Row from suffering the Urban Renewal fate of Bunker Hill.

We Acknowledge the Native Indigenous peoples of Los Angeles, their special relationship to Mother Earth, and their hospitality, inviting us into that special relationship.

We Acknowledge the patience, kindness, and compassion of Mother Earth.

We Acknowledge our beginnings as a church in 1853 when Methodist leader Adam Bland was sent to evangelize the "rowdy and incorrigible” Southland.

We Acknowledge our relationship with Biddy Mason, one of the Matriarchs of early Los Angeles, and a member of Fort Street Methodist Episcopal Church (the first name our church bore) before she began First African Methodist Episcopal (FAME) out of her home, one of the spiritual pillars in Los Angeles for many decades.

We Acknowledge Biddy Mason as the Patron Saint of Downtown Los Angeles, an enslaved woman who fought for the freedom of all who were enslaved. She utilized her training as a midwife to buy land and used her wealth to help others in need.

We Acknowledge the words of Jesus "to whom much is given much is required" as a blessing for us to live out: the legacy and reality of owning the largest piece of undeveloped property in South Park.

Welcome to Tongvaland, Pamela J. Peters

We Acknowledge the land of Downtown Los Angeles - more than a dozen unique and dynamic neighborhoods - as land the eyes of the world look towards for leadership and solutions to the challenges facing all humanity.

We Acknowledge the mission of the United Methodist Church as founded by John Wesley: to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world.

Donate

Order of Worship for Sunday, February 12, 2023: First Be Reconciled

Call to Worship - You are invited to light a candle in your home to welcome the presence of the Holy Spirit

Brighter Days - El Dorado

Welcome - Stephen Folds

One Thing Remains - 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. 

A Sermon Series for Epiphany: Back to Basics



February 12: First Be Reconciled
February 19: Transfiguration - Listen to Him!

LENT SERMON SERIES: SAVED BY GRACE

February 22 - Ash Wednesday - Virtual Service at Noon PT
You are invited to pray the Lord’s Prayer every day at noon throughout Lent
February 26 - Temptation and the Nature of Sin
March 5 - What Does it Mean to Be Saved?
March 12 - Justified by Faith
March 19 - The Grace that Comes Before Our Knowing
March 26 - Is Resurrection Possible?
April 2 - Palm Sunday 🌿 - Jesus Christ Superstar!
April 7 - Good Friday - Virtual Service at Noon PT
April 9 - Easter Sunday - Set Your Minds on Things That Are Above
April 16 - Sabbath Sunday

All who need a meal on Sunday, young and old, are invited to come sit down at the table with us for a hot, catered breakfast to get their day started! Our volunteers will be acting as servers, so that all who come join us have time to sit and enjoy their breakfast

LA First UMC is starting this ministry with the hopes of helping to fill the need for hot meals served on the weekends when most meal-providing services are closed in DTLA.

LA First UMC's Sunday Breakfast Ministry

Sundays 8:30-9:30am Pacific Time
Outside, at the picnic tables, in the parking lot on the South East Corner of Olympic and Flower
Next to Villa Flores located at 1020 S Flower St

Update to Volunteering Process

In order for the hour to run smoothly and efficiently, Debbie has planned to have jobs for 6 volunteers each week. Don't worry there are plenty of Sundays to sign up for the rest of the year. Please reach out to Debbie to get on the volunteering calendar. She can be reached at debbie@lafirstumc.org. Once you are signed up to be one of the 6 volunteers for a given week, Debbie will send out an email the Friday or Saturday before your volunteer shift to confirm your participation.

COMMUNITY RESOURCES:

The LA Art Show, the largest commercial art fair in North America

Our Member, Tom Grode will be curating his “DIVERSEartLA” space again this year. This year’s theme is Climate Change with a focus on Water. Tom says, “My nonprofit partner is Homeless Healthcare LA, a large Citywide nonprofit that does a lot of work in Skid Row. Homeless Health Care is known in Skid Row as the primary nonprofit for the Refresh Spot and founders of the Skid Row Center for Harm Reduction.”

A day pass for the Art Show, which runs this year between February 16-19 at the Downtown Convention Center, is $30. Info at: https://www.laartshow.com/

LA Homeless Services Authority Winter Shelters Are Now Open Through March 31st
Shelters operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Call 211 for a referral. https://www.lahsa.org/winter-shelter

Covid Testing:
Getting tested is now easier than ever with LA County's Pick-Up Testing Kits program. Visit ow.ly/tfIu50Hsnh5 for a list of locations where you can get a kit at no cost. The program will allow residents to pick up a PCR test kit & return it at designated locations. Results will be available within 24-48 hrs.

LA City is now offering free testing, without appointments at City-run sites. Find a site near you: Coronavirus.LACity.org/Testing
For additional COVID-19 resources: Coronavirus.LACity.org/Resources

CALL TO PRAYER: Broken Together - El Dorado

Joys and Concerns: We believe that the best way to bear our burdens is to share them with one another. You are invited 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.

First Reading: Psalm 119:1-8, NRSV - The Glories of God’s Law
Happy are those whose way is blameless,
   who walk in the law of the Lord.
Happy are those who keep his decrees,
   who seek him with their whole heart,
who also do no wrong,
   but walk in his ways.
You have commanded your precepts
   to be kept diligently.
O that my ways may be steadfast
   in keeping your statutes!
Then I shall not be put to shame,
   having my eyes fixed on all your commandments.
I will praise you with an upright heart,
   when I learn your righteous ordinances.
I will observe your statutes;
   do not utterly forsake me.

Scripture: Matthew 5:21-37 NRSV
Concerning Anger
’You have heard that it was said to those of ancient times, “You shall not murder”; and “whoever murders shall be liable to judgement.” But I say to you that if you are angry with a brother or sister, you will be liable to judgement; and if you insult a brother or sister, you will be liable to the council; and if you say, “You fool”, you will be liable to the hell of fire. So when you are offering your gift at the altar, if you remember that your brother or sister has something against you, leave your gift there before the altar and go; first be reconciled to your brother or sister, and then come and offer your gift. Come to terms quickly with your accuser while you are on the way to court with him, or your accuser may hand you over to the judge, and the judge to the guard, and you will be thrown into prison. Truly I tell you, you will never get out until you have paid the last penny.
Concerning Adultery
‘You have heard that it was said, “You shall not commit adultery.” But I say to you that everyone who looks at a woman with lust has already committed adultery with her in his heart. If your right eye causes you to sin, tear it out and throw it away; it is better for you to lose one of your members than for your whole body to be thrown into hell. And if your right hand causes you to sin, cut it off and throw it away; it is better for you to lose one of your members than for your whole body to go into hell.
Concerning Divorce
‘It was also said, “Whoever divorces his wife, let him give her a certificate of divorce.” But I say to you that anyone who divorces his wife, except on the ground of unchastity, causes her to commit adultery; and whoever marries a divorced woman commits adultery.
Concerning Oaths
‘Again, you have heard that it was said to those of ancient times, “You shall not swear falsely, but carry out the vows you have made to the Lord.” But I say to you, Do not swear at all, either by heaven, for it is the throne of God, or by the earth, for it is his footstool, or by Jerusalem, for it is the city of the great King. And do not swear by your head, for you cannot make one hair white or black. Let your word be “Yes, Yes” or “No, No”; anything more than this comes from the evil one.

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

Sermon: First Be Reconciled, 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.

CLOSING SONG: Be Thou My Vision - El Dorado

Benediction 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. 

LA FIRST UMC LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT - authored by Tom Grode, affirmed by LA First UMC’s Church Council on July 13, 2021

We Acknowledge the Tongva people as original caretakers of this land and their ancient village Yaangna, what we call Downtown Los Angeles.

We Acknowledge the many Native Americans who moved Downtown to Bunker Hill due to the Indian Relocation Act of 1956 as “the 'old' Bunker Hill was effectively scalped by urban renewal in the 1960’s.”   

We Acknowledge the work of Skid Row Housing Justice activists in the 1960's and 70's to keep the low income hotel housing in Skid Row from suffering the Urban Renewal fate of Bunker Hill.

We Acknowledge the Native Indigenous peoples of Los Angeles, their special relationship to Mother Earth, and their hospitality, inviting us into that special relationship.

We Acknowledge the patience, kindness, and compassion of Mother Earth.

We Acknowledge our beginnings as a church in 1853 when Methodist leader Adam Bland was sent to evangelize the "rowdy and incorrigible” Southland.

We Acknowledge our relationship with Biddy Mason, one of the Matriarchs of early Los Angeles, and a member of Fort Street Methodist Episcopal Church (the first name our church bore) before she began First African Methodist Episcopal (FAME) out of her home, one of the spiritual pillars in Los Angeles for many decades.

We Acknowledge Biddy Mason as the Patron Saint of Downtown Los Angeles, an enslaved woman who fought for the freedom of all who were enslaved. She utilized her training as a midwife to buy land and used her wealth to help others in need.

We Acknowledge the words of Jesus "to whom much is given much is required" as a blessing for us to live out: the legacy and reality of owning the largest piece of undeveloped property in South Park.

Welcome to Tongvaland, Pamela J. Peters

We Acknowledge the land of Downtown Los Angeles - more than a dozen unique and dynamic neighborhoods - as land the eyes of the world look towards for leadership and solutions to the challenges facing all humanity.

We Acknowledge the mission of the United Methodist Church as founded by John Wesley: to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world.

Donate

Order of Worship for Sunday, February 5, 2023: You Are the Salt of the Earth and the Light of the World

Call to Worship - You are invited to light a candle in your home to welcome the presence of the Holy Spirit

I Saw the Light - El Dorado

Welcome - Stephen Folds

Good Day for a Good Day - 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. 

A Sermon Series for Epiphany: Back to Basics



February 5: You are the Salt of the Earth and the Light of the World
February 12: First Be Reconciled
February 19: Transfiguration - Listen to Him!

All who need a meal on Sunday, young and old, are invited to come sit down at the table with us for a hot, catered breakfast to get their day started! Our volunteers will be acting as servers, so that all who come join us have time to sit and enjoy their breakfast

LA First UMC is starting this ministry with the hopes of helping to fill the need for hot meals served on the weekends when most meal-providing services are closed in DTLA.

LA First UMC's Sunday Breakfast Ministry

Sundays 8:30-9:30am Pacific Time
Outside, at the picnic tables, in the parking lot on the South East Corner of Olympic and Flower
Next to Villa Flores located at 1020 S Flower St

Update to Volunteering Process

In order for the hour to run smoothly and efficiently, Debbie has planned to have jobs for 6 volunteers each week. Don't worry there are plenty of Sundays to sign up for the rest of the year. Please reach out to Debbie to get on the volunteering calendar. She can be reached at debbie@lafirstumc.org. Once you are signed up to be one of the 6 volunteers for a given week, Debbie will send out an email the Friday or Saturday before your volunteer shift to confirm your participation.

COMMUNITY RESOURCES:

The LA Art Show, the largest commercial art fair in North America

Our Member, Tom Grode will be curating his “DIVERSEartLA” space again this year. This year’s theme is Climate Change with a focus on Water. Tom says, “My nonprofit partner is Homeless Healthcare LA, a large Citywide nonprofit that does a lot of work in Skid Row. Homeless Health Care is known in Skid Row as the primary nonprofit for the Refresh Spot and founders of the Skid Row Center for Harm Reduction.”

A day pass for the Art Show, which runs this year between February 16-19 at the Downtown Convention Center, is $30. Info at: https://www.laartshow.com/

LA Homeless Services Authority Winter Shelters Are Now Open Through March 31st
Shelters operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Call 211 for a referral. https://www.lahsa.org/winter-shelter

Registration is no longer required for the monkey pox vaccinations now available for eligible residents. 
For information and updates on monkeypox, visit ph.lacounty.gov/monkeypox

COVID Testing:
You can get your digital vaccination record: myvaccinerecord.cdph.ca.gov
healthvana.com or carbonhealth.com
LA City is now offering free testing, without appointments at City-run sites. Find a site near you: Coronavirus.LACity.org/Testing. For additional COVID-19 resources: Coronavirus.LACity.org/Resources

Vaccines:
Flu Shots: Getting a flu shot is fast, easy, and convenient. Get yours today: Call 2-1-1 or go to: https://admin.publichealth.lacounty.gov/media/FluSeason/index1.htm
Covid Testing:
Getting tested is now easier than ever with LA County's Pick-Up Testing Kits program. Visit ow.ly/tfIu50Hsnh5 for a list of locations where you can get a kit at no cost. The program will allow residents to pick up a PCR test kit & return it at designated locations. Results will be available within 24-48 hrs.

LA City is now offering free testing, without appointments at City-run sites. Find a site near you: Coronavirus.LACity.org/Testing
For additional COVID-19 resources: Coronavirus.LACity.org/Resources
You can get your digital vaccination record: myvaccinerecord.cdph.ca.gov
healthvana.com carbonhealth.com

  • LA County is bringing the COVID-19 vaccines to homebound residents. Need to get vaccinated at home? Call the LA Public Health Vaccine Call Center at 833-540-0473 between 8 AM and 8:30 PM, any day of the week, for assistance.

  • Need a ride? Uber and Lyft are providing free rides to and from vaccination sites. Don't have the apps? Call 833-540-0473 to book your ride.

  • There are several vaccine sites set up by Carbon Health that you can check: https://carbonhealth.com/

  • LA County: http://www.publichealth.lacounty.gov/media/Coronavirus/vaccine/index.htm

  • Orange County residents and workers: Register for a vaccination appointment at https://othena.co

CALL TO PRAYER: Just A Closer Walk With Thee - El Dorado

Joys and Concerns: We believe that the best way to bear our burdens is to share them with one another. You are invited 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.

First Reading: Psalm 112:1-9, NRSV
Praise the Lord!
   Happy are those who fear the Lord,
   who greatly delight in his commandments.
Their descendants will be mighty in the land;
   the generation of the upright will be blessed.
Wealth and riches are in their houses,
   and their righteousness endures for ever.
They rise in the darkness as a light for the upright;
   they are gracious, merciful, and righteous.
It is well with those who deal generously and lend,
   who conduct their affairs with justice.
For the righteous will never be moved;
   they will be remembered for ever.
They are not afraid of evil tidings;
   their hearts are firm, secure in the Lord.
Their hearts are steady, they will not be afraid;
   in the end they will look in triumph on their foes.
They have distributed freely, they have given to the poor;
   their righteousness endures for ever;
   their horn is exalted in honor.
          Selah

Scripture: Matthew 5:13-20, NRSV, Salt and Light

‘You are the salt of the earth; but if salt has lost its taste, how can its saltiness be restored? It is no longer good for anything, but is thrown out and trampled under foot.

‘You are the light of the world. A city built on a hill cannot be hidden. No one after lighting a lamp puts it under the bushel basket, but on the lampstand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven.

The Law and the Prophets

‘Do not think that I have come to abolish the law or the prophets; I have come not to abolish but to fulfil. For truly I tell you, until heaven and earth pass away, not one letter, not one stroke of a letter, will pass from the law until all is accomplished. Therefore, whoever breaks one of the least of these commandments, and teaches others to do the same, will be called least in the kingdom of heaven; but whoever does them and teaches them will be called great in the kingdom of heaven. For I tell you, unless your righteousness exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.

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

Sermon: You Are the Salt of the Earth, You Are the Light of the World, 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.

CLOSING SONG: Salt & Light - El Dorado

Benediction 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. 

LA FIRST UMC LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT - authored by Tom Grode, affirmed by LA First UMC’s Church Council on July 13, 2021

We Acknowledge the Tongva people as original caretakers of this land and their ancient village Yaangna, what we call Downtown Los Angeles.

We Acknowledge the many Native Americans who moved Downtown to Bunker Hill due to the Indian Relocation Act of 1956 as “the 'old' Bunker Hill was effectively scalped by urban renewal in the 1960’s.”   

We Acknowledge the work of Skid Row Housing Justice activists in the 1960's and 70's to keep the low income hotel housing in Skid Row from suffering the Urban Renewal fate of Bunker Hill.

We Acknowledge the Native Indigenous peoples of Los Angeles, their special relationship to Mother Earth, and their hospitality, inviting us into that special relationship.

We Acknowledge the patience, kindness, and compassion of Mother Earth.

We Acknowledge our beginnings as a church in 1853 when Methodist leader Adam Bland was sent to evangelize the "rowdy and incorrigible” Southland.

We Acknowledge our relationship with Biddy Mason, one of the Matriarchs of early Los Angeles, and a member of Fort Street Methodist Episcopal Church (the first name our church bore) before she began First African Methodist Episcopal (FAME) out of her home, one of the spiritual pillars in Los Angeles for many decades.

We Acknowledge Biddy Mason as the Patron Saint of Downtown Los Angeles, an enslaved woman who fought for the freedom of all who were enslaved. She utilized her training as a midwife to buy land and used her wealth to help others in need.

We Acknowledge the words of Jesus "to whom much is given much is required" as a blessing for us to live out: the legacy and reality of owning the largest piece of undeveloped property in South Park.

Welcome to Tongvaland, Pamela J. Peters

We Acknowledge the land of Downtown Los Angeles - more than a dozen unique and dynamic neighborhoods - as land the eyes of the world look towards for leadership and solutions to the challenges facing all humanity.

We Acknowledge the mission of the United Methodist Church as founded by John Wesley: to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world.

Donate

Order of Worship for United Women in Faith Sunday, January 29, 2023: To Know God is to Trust God, Eutha Hankinson, preaching

Call to Worship - You are invited to light a candle in your home to welcome the presence of the Holy Spirit

Good Day for a Good Day - El Dorado

Welcome - Stephen Folds

All Who Are Thirsty - 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. 

A Sermon Series for Epiphany: Back to Basics


January 29: Blessed Are Those, UWF Sunday, Eutha Hankinson, preaching
February 5: You are the Salt of the Earth and the Light of the World
February 12: First Be Reconciled
February 19: Transfiguration - Listen to Him!

All who need a meal on Sunday, young and old, are invited to come sit down at the table with us for a hot, catered breakfast to get their day started! Our volunteers will be acting as servers, so that all who come join us have time to sit and enjoy their breakfast

LA First UMC is starting this ministry with the hopes of helping to fill the need for hot meals served on the weekends when most meal-providing services are closed in DTLA.

LA First UMC's Sunday Breakfast Ministry

Sundays 8:30-9:30am Pacific Time
Outside, at the picnic tables, in the parking lot on the South East Corner of Olympic and Flower
Next to Villa Flores located at 1020 S Flower St

Update to Volunteering Process

In order for the hour to run smoothly and efficiently, Debbie has planned to have jobs for 6 volunteers each week. Don't worry there are plenty of Sundays to sign up for the rest of the year. Please reach out to Debbie to get on the volunteering calendar. She can be reached at debbie@lafirstumc.org. Once you are signed up to be one of the 6 volunteers for a given week, Debbie will send out an email the Friday or Saturday before your volunteer shift to confirm your participation.

OFFERING: To make a donation to support the Monterey Park community, please

use your phone camera to capture the QR code to the right; or click on this link:

http://www.calpacumc.org/donate

COMMUNITY RESOURCES:

LA Homeless Services Authority Winter Shelters Are Now Open Through March 31st
Shelters operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Call 211 for a referral. https://www.lahsa.org/winter-shelter

Registration is no longer required for the monkey pox vaccinations now available for eligible residents. 
For information and updates on monkeypox, visit ph.lacounty.gov/monkeypox

COVID Testing:
You can get your digital vaccination record: myvaccinerecord.cdph.ca.gov
healthvana.com or carbonhealth.com
LA City is now offering free testing, without appointments at City-run sites. Find a site near you: Coronavirus.LACity.org/Testing. For additional COVID-19 resources: Coronavirus.LACity.org/Resources

Vaccines:
Flu Shots: Getting a flu shot is fast, easy, and convenient. Get yours today: Call 2-1-1 or go to: https://admin.publichealth.lacounty.gov/media/FluSeason/index1.htm
Covid Testing:
Getting tested is now easier than ever with LA County's Pick-Up Testing Kits program. Visit ow.ly/tfIu50Hsnh5 for a list of locations where you can get a kit at no cost. The program will allow residents to pick up a PCR test kit & return it at designated locations. Results will be available within 24-48 hrs.

LA City is now offering free testing, without appointments at City-run sites. Find a site near you: Coronavirus.LACity.org/Testing
For additional COVID-19 resources: Coronavirus.LACity.org/Resources
You can get your digital vaccination record: myvaccinerecord.cdph.ca.gov
healthvana.com carbonhealth.com

  • LA County is bringing the COVID-19 vaccines to homebound residents. Need to get vaccinated at home? Call the LA Public Health Vaccine Call Center at 833-540-0473 between 8 AM and 8:30 PM, any day of the week, for assistance.

  • Need a ride? Uber and Lyft are providing free rides to and from vaccination sites. Don't have the apps? Call 833-540-0473 to book your ride.

  • There are several vaccine sites set up by Carbon Health that you can check: https://carbonhealth.com/

  • LA County: http://www.publichealth.lacounty.gov/media/Coronavirus/vaccine/index.htm

  • Orange County residents and workers: Register for a vaccination appointment at https://othena.co

CALL TO PRAYER: Just A Closer Walk With Thee - El Dorado

Joys and Concerns: We believe that the best way to bear our burdens is to share them with one another. You are invited 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.

United Women in Faith: Organized for Mission - An Installation Service

Leader – Eutha Hankinson:  2 Timothy vs 1: Line 6 –   ”For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you …”

Welcome to you as leaders for United Women in Faith.  You stand in a long line of women dedicated to making a difference.

Officers:     We celebrate and witness the United Women in Faith’s historical commitment for over 130 years to ministry and offer our ministry to support women and children and youth.

All:   We are here to celebrate and witness as women organized for mission.  We will strive to develop a creative, supportive fellowship to undergird our historical commitment to our ministry with women, children, and youth.

Eutha Hankinson:   As elected leaders of the local United Women in Faith, you become part of the local leadership of more than 25,000 local units in our country.

Officers:   We celebrate our connectional system.  We honor the trust and stewardship entrusted to us through our offices.

All:   The organized unit of United Women in Faith shall be a community of women whose purpose is to know God. 

Eutha Hankinson:   Your pledge to service and pledge to mission link you, as a local United Woman in Faith, with more than 50,000 congregations around the world.

Officers:    We celebrate the global sisterhood and brotherhood made possible through mission.  A light set upon a hill cannot be hidden.

All UMW:   Those who experience freedom as whole persons through Christ cannot hide their light under a bushel.

Eutha Hankinson:   God of mission calls us to a renewed discipleship as followers of Christ.

Officers:   We pledge ourselves to renewed discipleship as followers of Christ.

All:    We pledge ourselves to renewed discipleship in Christ to expand concepts of mission through the global ministries of the church.
Eutha Hankinson:  As a token of your commitment to the Purpose of the United Women in Faith, please light your candles.

​As you light your candles, I am reminded of the awesome commitment spiritually, monetarily, and with humanitarian actions in support of the United Methodist Women to mission.  In 2020, United Women in Faith provided over $9 million to further the causes to help women, children, youth and men.              

 We affirm this major contribution of yours to mission here and around the world.  Let the light from your candles, your lights so shine that they may glorify God.

Officers & All: We can do all things through Christ who strengthens us.

Eutha Hankinson: May the God of our foremothers who sustains us in this mission continue to bless you, keep you, and nudge you to greater possibilities. Amen.

All: Amen.

First Reading: Psalm 62:8, NRSV - Eutha Hankinson
Trust in him at all times, O people;
   pour out your heart before him;
   God is a refuge for us.
          Selah

Scripture: Proverbs 3:5-6, NRSV
Trust in the Lord with all your heart,
   and do not rely on your own insight.
In all your ways acknowledge him,
   and he will make straight your paths.

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

Sermon: To Know God is to Trust God - Eutha Hankinson, 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.

CLOSING SONG: Be Thou My Vision - El Dorado

Benediction 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. 

LA FIRST UMC LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT - authored by Tom Grode, affirmed by LA First UMC’s Church Council on July 13, 2021

We Acknowledge the Tongva people as original caretakers of this land and their ancient village Yaangna, what we call Downtown Los Angeles.

We Acknowledge the many Native Americans who moved Downtown to Bunker Hill due to the Indian Relocation Act of 1956 as “the 'old' Bunker Hill was effectively scalped by urban renewal in the 1960’s.”   

We Acknowledge the work of Skid Row Housing Justice activists in the 1960's and 70's to keep the low income hotel housing in Skid Row from suffering the Urban Renewal fate of Bunker Hill.

We Acknowledge the Native Indigenous peoples of Los Angeles, their special relationship to Mother Earth, and their hospitality, inviting us into that special relationship.

We Acknowledge the patience, kindness, and compassion of Mother Earth.

We Acknowledge our beginnings as a church in 1853 when Methodist leader Adam Bland was sent to evangelize the "rowdy and incorrigible” Southland.

We Acknowledge our relationship with Biddy Mason, one of the Matriarchs of early Los Angeles, and a member of Fort Street Methodist Episcopal Church (the first name our church bore) before she began First African Methodist Episcopal (FAME) out of her home, one of the spiritual pillars in Los Angeles for many decades.

We Acknowledge Biddy Mason as the Patron Saint of Downtown Los Angeles, an enslaved woman who fought for the freedom of all who were enslaved. She utilized her training as a midwife to buy land and used her wealth to help others in need.

We Acknowledge the words of Jesus "to whom much is given much is required" as a blessing for us to live out: the legacy and reality of owning the largest piece of undeveloped property in South Park.

Welcome to Tongvaland, Pamela J. Peters

We Acknowledge the land of Downtown Los Angeles - more than a dozen unique and dynamic neighborhoods - as land the eyes of the world look towards for leadership and solutions to the challenges facing all humanity.

We Acknowledge the mission of the United Methodist Church as founded by John Wesley: to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world.

Donate

Order of Worship for Sunday, January 22, 2023: Star-Child - A New Hope, Rev. Mark Ulrickson, preaching

Call to Worship - You are invited to light a candle in your home to welcome the presence of the Holy Spirit

The Message of Love - 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. 

A Sermon Series for Epiphany: Back to Basics

January 8: Epiphany Sunday - Darkness will cover the earth, but the Lord will arise upon you
January 15: Baptism of the Lord - In this way to fulfill all righteousness
January 22: Star-Child: A New Hope, Rev. Mark Ulrickson, preaching
January 29: Blessed Are Those, UWF Sunday, Eutha Hankinson, preaching
February 5: You are the Salt of the Earth and the Light of the World
February 12: First Be Reconciled
February 19: Transfiguration - Listen to Him!

All who need a meal on Sunday, young and old, are invited to come sit down at the table with us for a hot, catered breakfast to get their day started! Our volunteers will be acting as servers, so that all who come join us have time to sit and enjoy their breakfast

LA First UMC is starting this ministry with the hopes of helping to fill the need for hot meals served on the weekends when most meal-providing services are closed in DTLA.

LA First UMC's Sunday Breakfast Ministry

Sundays 8:30-9:30am Pacific Time
Outside, at the picnic tables, in the parking lot on the South East Corner of Olympic and Flower
Next to Villa Flores located at 1020 S Flower St

Update to Volunteering Process

In order for the hour to run smoothly and efficiently, Debbie has planned to have jobs for 6 volunteers each week. Don't worry there are plenty of Sundays to sign up for the rest of the year. Please reach out to Debbie to get on the volunteering calendar. She can be reached at debbie@lafirstumc.org. Once you are signed up to be one of the 6 volunteers for a given week, Debbie will send out an email the Friday or Saturday before your volunteer shift to confirm your participation.

COMMUNITY RESOURCES:

LA Homeless Services Authority Winter Shelters Are Now Open Through March 31st
Shelters operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Call 211 for a referral. https://www.lahsa.org/winter-shelter

Registration is no longer required for the monkey pox vaccinations now available for eligible residents. 
For information and updates on monkeypox, visit ph.lacounty.gov/monkeypox

COVID Testing:
You can get your digital vaccination record: myvaccinerecord.cdph.ca.gov
healthvana.com or carbonhealth.com
LA City is now offering free testing, without appointments at City-run sites. Find a site near you: Coronavirus.LACity.org/Testing. For additional COVID-19 resources: Coronavirus.LACity.org/Resources

Vaccines:
Flu Shots: Getting a flu shot is fast, easy, and convenient. Get yours today: Call 2-1-1 or go to: https://admin.publichealth.lacounty.gov/media/FluSeason/index1.htm
Covid Testing:
Getting tested is now easier than ever with LA County's Pick-Up Testing Kits program. Visit ow.ly/tfIu50Hsnh5 for a list of locations where you can get a kit at no cost. The program will allow residents to pick up a PCR test kit & return it at designated locations. Results will be available within 24-48 hrs.

LA City is now offering free testing, without appointments at City-run sites. Find a site near you: Coronavirus.LACity.org/Testing
For additional COVID-19 resources: Coronavirus.LACity.org/Resources
You can get your digital vaccination record: myvaccinerecord.cdph.ca.gov
healthvana.com carbonhealth.com

  • LA County is bringing the COVID-19 vaccines to homebound residents. Need to get vaccinated at home? Call the LA Public Health Vaccine Call Center at 833-540-0473 between 8 AM and 8:30 PM, any day of the week, for assistance.

  • Need a ride? Uber and Lyft are providing free rides to and from vaccination sites. Don't have the apps? Call 833-540-0473 to book your ride.

  • There are several vaccine sites set up by Carbon Health that you can check: https://carbonhealth.com/

  • LA County: http://www.publichealth.lacounty.gov/media/Coronavirus/vaccine/index.htm

  • Orange County residents and workers: Register for a vaccination appointment at https://othena.co

CALL TO PRAYER: God With Us - El Dorado

Joys and Concerns: We believe that the best way to bear our burdens is to share them with one another. You are invited 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.

First Reading: Isaiah 9:1-4, NRSV - The Righteous Reign of the Coming King Ashley Woods, Lay Reader

But there will be no gloom for those who were in anguish. In the former time he brought into contempt the land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali, but in the latter time he will make glorious the way of the sea, the land beyond the Jordan, Galilee of the nations.
The people who walked in darkness
   have seen a great light;
those who lived in a land of deep darkness—
   on them light has shined.
You have multiplied the nation,
   you have increased its joy;
they rejoice before you
   as with joy at the harvest,
   as people exult when dividing plunder.
For the yoke of their burden,
   and the bar across their shoulders,
   the rod of their oppressor,
   you have broken as on the day of Midian.

Scripture: Matthew 4:12-23, NRSV - Rev. Mark Ulrickson
Jesus Begins His Ministry in Galilee

Now when Jesus heard that John had been arrested, he withdrew to Galilee. He left Nazareth and made his home in Capernaum by the lake, in the territory of Zebulun and Naphtali, so that what had been spoken through the prophet Isaiah might be fulfilled:
‘Land of Zebulun, land of Naphtali,
   on the road by the sea, across the Jordan, Galilee of the Gentiles—
the people who sat in darkness
   have seen a great light,
and for those who sat in the region and shadow of death
   light has dawned.’
From that time Jesus began to proclaim, ‘Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near.’

Jesus Calls the First Disciples

As he walked by the Sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers, Simon, who is called Peter, and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the lake—for they were fishermen. And he said to them, ‘Follow me, and I will make you fish for people.’ Immediately they left their nets and followed him. As he went from there, he saw two other brothers, James son of Zebedee and his brother John, in the boat with their father Zebedee, mending their nets, and he called them. Immediately they left the boat and their father, and followed him.

Jesus Ministers to Crowds of People

Jesus went throughout Galilee, teaching in their synagogues and proclaiming the good news of the kingdom and curing every disease and every sickness among the people.

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

Sermon: Star-Child: A New Hope - Rev. Mark Ulrickson, 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.

CLOSING SONG: All You Need is Love - El Dorado

Benediction 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. 

LA FIRST UMC LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT - authored by Tom Grode, affirmed by LA First UMC’s Church Council on July 13, 2021

We Acknowledge the Tongva people as original caretakers of this land and their ancient village Yaangna, what we call Downtown Los Angeles.

We Acknowledge the many Native Americans who moved Downtown to Bunker Hill due to the Indian Relocation Act of 1956 as “the 'old' Bunker Hill was effectively scalped by urban renewal in the 1960’s.”   

We Acknowledge the work of Skid Row Housing Justice activists in the 1960's and 70's to keep the low income hotel housing in Skid Row from suffering the Urban Renewal fate of Bunker Hill.

We Acknowledge the Native Indigenous peoples of Los Angeles, their special relationship to Mother Earth, and their hospitality, inviting us into that special relationship.

We Acknowledge the patience, kindness, and compassion of Mother Earth.

We Acknowledge our beginnings as a church in 1853 when Methodist leader Adam Bland was sent to evangelize the "rowdy and incorrigible” Southland.

We Acknowledge our relationship with Biddy Mason, one of the Matriarchs of early Los Angeles, and a member of Fort Street Methodist Episcopal Church (the first name our church bore) before she began First African Methodist Episcopal (FAME) out of her home, one of the spiritual pillars in Los Angeles for many decades.

We Acknowledge Biddy Mason as the Patron Saint of Downtown Los Angeles, an enslaved woman who fought for the freedom of all who were enslaved. She utilized her training as a midwife to buy land and used her wealth to help others in need.

We Acknowledge the words of Jesus "to whom much is given much is required" as a blessing for us to live out: the legacy and reality of owning the largest piece of undeveloped property in South Park.

Welcome to Tongvaland, Pamela J. Peters

We Acknowledge the land of Downtown Los Angeles - more than a dozen unique and dynamic neighborhoods - as land the eyes of the world look towards for leadership and solutions to the challenges facing all humanity.

We Acknowledge the mission of the United Methodist Church as founded by John Wesley: to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world.

Donate

Order of Worship for Sunday, January 15, 2023: In This Way to Fulfill All Righteousness

Call to Worship - You are invited to light a candle in your home to welcome the presence of the Holy Spirit

Down in the River to Pray - El Dorado

Welcome - Stephen Folds

Take Me to the River - 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. 

A Sermon Series for Epiphany: Back to Basics

January 8: Epiphany Sunday - Darkness will cover the earth, but the Lord will arise upon you
January 15: Baptism of the Lord - In this way to fulfill all righteousness
January 22: Rev. Mark Ulrickson, preaching
January 29: Blessed Are Those, UWF Sunday, Eutha Hankinson, preaching
February 5: You are the Salt of the Earth and the Light of the World
February 12: First Be Reconciled
February 19: Transfiguration - Listen to Him!

All who need a meal on Sunday, young and old, are invited to come sit down at the table with us for a hot, catered breakfast to get their day started! Our volunteers will be acting as servers, so that all who come join us have time to sit and enjoy their breakfast

LA First UMC is starting this ministry with the hopes of helping to fill the need for hot meals served on the weekends when most meal-providing services are closed in DTLA.

LA First UMC's Sunday Breakfast Ministry

Sundays 8:30-9:30am Pacific Time
Outside, at the picnic tables, in the parking lot on the South East Corner of Olympic and Flower
Next to Villa Flores located at 1020 S Flower St

Update to Volunteering Process

In order for the hour to run smoothly and efficiently, Debbie has planned to have jobs for 6 volunteers each week. Don't worry there are plenty of Sundays to sign up for the rest of the year. Please reach out to Debbie to get on the volunteering calendar. She can be reached at debbie@lafirstumc.org. Once you are signed up to be one of the 6 volunteers for a given week, Debbie will send out an email the Friday or Saturday before your volunteer shift to confirm your participation.

COMMUNITY RESOURCES:

LA Homeless Services Authority Winter Shelters Are Now Open Through March 31st
Shelters operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Call 211 for a referral. https://www.lahsa.org/winter-shelter

Registration is no longer required for the monkey pox vaccinations now available for eligible residents. 
For information and updates on monkeypox, visit ph.lacounty.gov/monkeypox

COVID Testing:
You can get your digital vaccination record: myvaccinerecord.cdph.ca.gov
healthvana.com or carbonhealth.com
LA City is now offering free testing, without appointments at City-run sites. Find a site near you: Coronavirus.LACity.org/Testing. For additional COVID-19 resources: Coronavirus.LACity.org/Resources

Vaccines:
Flu Shots: Getting a flu shot is fast, easy, and convenient. Get yours today: Call 2-1-1 or go to: https://admin.publichealth.lacounty.gov/media/FluSeason/index1.htm
Covid Testing:
Getting tested is now easier than ever with LA County's Pick-Up Testing Kits program. Visit ow.ly/tfIu50Hsnh5 for a list of locations where you can get a kit at no cost. The program will allow residents to pick up a PCR test kit & return it at designated locations. Results will be available within 24-48 hrs.

LA City is now offering free testing, without appointments at City-run sites. Find a site near you: Coronavirus.LACity.org/Testing
For additional COVID-19 resources: Coronavirus.LACity.org/Resources
You can get your digital vaccination record: myvaccinerecord.cdph.ca.gov
healthvana.com carbonhealth.com

  • LA County is bringing the COVID-19 vaccines to homebound residents. Need to get vaccinated at home? Call the LA Public Health Vaccine Call Center at 833-540-0473 between 8 AM and 8:30 PM, any day of the week, for assistance.

  • Need a ride? Uber and Lyft are providing free rides to and from vaccination sites. Don't have the apps? Call 833-540-0473 to book your ride.

  • There are several vaccine sites set up by Carbon Health that you can check: https://carbonhealth.com/

  • LA County: http://www.publichealth.lacounty.gov/media/Coronavirus/vaccine/index.htm

  • Orange County residents and workers: Register for a vaccination appointment at https://othena.co

CALL TO PRAYER: Washing of the Water - El Dorado

Joys and Concerns: We believe that the best way to bear our burdens is to share them with one another. You are invited 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.

First Reading: Isaiah 42:1-9, NRSV - The Servant, a Light to the Nations

Here is my servant, whom I uphold,
   my chosen, in whom my soul delights;
I have put my spirit upon him;
   he will bring forth justice to the nations.
He will not cry or lift up his voice,
   or make it heard in the street;
a bruised reed he will not break,
   and a dimly burning wick he will not quench;
   he will faithfully bring forth justice.
He will not grow faint or be crushed
   until he has established justice in the earth;
   and the coastlands wait for his teaching.

Thus says God, the Lord,
   who created the heavens and stretched them out,
   who spread out the earth and what comes from it,
who gives breath to the people upon it
   and spirit to those who walk in it:
I am the Lord, I have called you in righteousness,
   I have taken you by the hand and kept you;
I have given you as a covenant to the people,
   a light to the nations,
   to open the eyes that are blind,
to bring out the prisoners from the dungeon,
   from the prison those who sit in darkness.
I am the Lord, that is my name;
   my glory I give to no other,
   nor my praise to idols.
See, the former things have come to pass,
   and new things I now declare;
before they spring forth,
   I tell you of them

Scripture: Matthew 3:13-17, NRSV - The Baptism of Jesus

Then Jesus came from Galilee to John at the Jordan, to be baptized by him. John would have prevented him, saying, ‘I need to be baptized by you, and do you come to me?’ But Jesus answered him, ‘Let it be so now; for it is proper for us in this way to fulfil all righteousness.’ Then he consented. And when Jesus had been baptized, just as he came up from the water, suddenly the heavens were opened to him and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and alighting on him. And a voice from heaven said, ‘This is my Son, the Beloved, with whom I am well pleased.’

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

Sermon: In This Way to Fulfill All Righteousness - Rev. 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.

CLOSING SONG: In the River - El Dorado

Benediction 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. 

LA FIRST UMC LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT - authored by Tom Grode, affirmed by LA First UMC’s Church Council on July 13, 2021

We Acknowledge the Tongva people as original caretakers of this land and their ancient village Yaangna, what we call Downtown Los Angeles.

We Acknowledge the many Native Americans who moved Downtown to Bunker Hill due to the Indian Relocation Act of 1956 as “the 'old' Bunker Hill was effectively scalped by urban renewal in the 1960’s.”   

We Acknowledge the work of Skid Row Housing Justice activists in the 1960's and 70's to keep the low income hotel housing in Skid Row from suffering the Urban Renewal fate of Bunker Hill.

We Acknowledge the Native Indigenous peoples of Los Angeles, their special relationship to Mother Earth, and their hospitality, inviting us into that special relationship.

We Acknowledge the patience, kindness, and compassion of Mother Earth.

We Acknowledge our beginnings as a church in 1853 when Methodist leader Adam Bland was sent to evangelize the "rowdy and incorrigible” Southland.

We Acknowledge our relationship with Biddy Mason, one of the Matriarchs of early Los Angeles, and a member of Fort Street Methodist Episcopal Church (the first name our church bore) before she began First African Methodist Episcopal (FAME) out of her home, one of the spiritual pillars in Los Angeles for many decades.

We Acknowledge Biddy Mason as the Patron Saint of Downtown Los Angeles, an enslaved woman who fought for the freedom of all who were enslaved. She utilized her training as a midwife to buy land and used her wealth to help others in need.

We Acknowledge the words of Jesus "to whom much is given much is required" as a blessing for us to live out: the legacy and reality of owning the largest piece of undeveloped property in South Park.

Welcome to Tongvaland, Pamela J. Peters

We Acknowledge the land of Downtown Los Angeles - more than a dozen unique and dynamic neighborhoods - as land the eyes of the world look towards for leadership and solutions to the challenges facing all humanity.

We Acknowledge the mission of the United Methodist Church as founded by John Wesley: to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world.

Donate

Order of Worship for Epiphany Sunday, January 8, 2023: Darkness will cover the earth, but the Lord will arise upon you

Call to Worship - You are invited to light a candle in your home to welcome the presence of the Holy Spirit

Go, Tell it on the Mountain - El Dorado

Welcome - Stephen Folds

I Saw the Light - 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. 

A Sermon Series for Epiphany: Back to Basics

January 8: Epiphany Sunday - Darkness will cover the earth, but the Lord will arise upon you
January 15: Baptism of the Lord - In this way to fulfill all righteousness
January 22: Rev. Mark Ulrickson, preaching
January 29: Blessed Are Those
February 5: You are the Salt of the Earth and the Light of the World
February 12: First Be Reconciled
February 19: Transfiguration - Listen to Him!

All who need a meal on Sunday, young and old, are invited to come sit down at the table with us for a hot, catered breakfast to get their day started! Our volunteers will be acting as servers, so that all who come join us have time to sit and enjoy their breakfast

LA First UMC is starting this ministry with the hopes of helping to fill the need for hot meals served on the weekends when most meal-providing services are closed in DTLA.

LA First UMC's Sunday Breakfast Ministry

Sundays 8:30-9:30am Pacific Time
Outside, at the picnic tables, in the parking lot on the South East Corner of Olympic and Flower
Next to Villa Flores located at 1020 S Flower St

Update to Volunteering Process

In order for the hour to run smoothly and efficiently, Debbie has planned to have jobs for 6 volunteers each week. Don't worry there are plenty of Sundays to sign up for the rest of the year. Please reach out to Debbie to get on the volunteering calendar. She can be reached at debbie@lafirstumc.org. Once you are signed up to be one of the 6 volunteers for a given week, Debbie will send out an email the Friday or Saturday before your volunteer shift to confirm your participation.

COMMUNITY RESOURCES:

LA Homeless Services Authority Winter Shelters Are Now Open Through March 31st
Shelters operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Call 211 for a referral. https://www.lahsa.org/winter-shelter

Registration is no longer required for the monkey pox vaccinations now available for eligible residents. 
For information and updates on monkeypox, visit ph.lacounty.gov/monkeypox

COVID Testing:
You can get your digital vaccination record: myvaccinerecord.cdph.ca.gov
healthvana.com or carbonhealth.com
LA City is now offering free testing, without appointments at City-run sites. Find a site near you: Coronavirus.LACity.org/Testing. For additional COVID-19 resources: Coronavirus.LACity.org/Resources

Vaccines:
Flu Shots: Getting a flu shot is fast, easy, and convenient. Get yours today: Call 2-1-1 or go to: https://admin.publichealth.lacounty.gov/media/FluSeason/index1.htm
Covid Testing:
Getting tested is now easier than ever with LA County's Pick-Up Testing Kits program. Visit ow.ly/tfIu50Hsnh5 for a list of locations where you can get a kit at no cost. The program will allow residents to pick up a PCR test kit & return it at designated locations. Results will be available within 24-48 hrs.

LA City is now offering free testing, without appointments at City-run sites. Find a site near you: Coronavirus.LACity.org/Testing
For additional COVID-19 resources: Coronavirus.LACity.org/Resources
You can get your digital vaccination record: myvaccinerecord.cdph.ca.gov
healthvana.com carbonhealth.com

  • LA County is bringing the COVID-19 vaccines to homebound residents. Need to get vaccinated at home? Call the LA Public Health Vaccine Call Center at 833-540-0473 between 8 AM and 8:30 PM, any day of the week, for assistance.

  • Need a ride? Uber and Lyft are providing free rides to and from vaccination sites. Don't have the apps? Call 833-540-0473 to book your ride.

  • There are several vaccine sites set up by Carbon Health that you can check: https://carbonhealth.com/

  • LA County: http://www.publichealth.lacounty.gov/media/Coronavirus/vaccine/index.htm

  • Orange County residents and workers: Register for a vaccination appointment at https://othena.co

CALL TO PRAYER: We Three Kings - El Dorado

Joys and Concerns: We believe that the best way to bear our burdens is to share them with one another. You are invited 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.

First Reading: Isaiah 60:1-6, NRSV - The Ingathering of the Dispersed

Arise, shine; for your light has come,
   and the glory of the Lord has risen upon you.
For darkness shall cover the earth,
   and thick darkness the peoples;
but the Lord will arise upon you,
   and his glory will appear over you.
Nations shall come to your light,
   and kings to the brightness of your dawn.


Lift up your eyes and look around;
   they all gather together, they come to you;
your sons shall come from far away,
   and your daughters shall be carried on their nurses’ arms.
Then you shall see and be radiant;
   your heart shall thrill and rejoice,
because the abundance of the sea shall be brought to you,
   the wealth of the nations shall come to you.
A multitude of camels shall cover you,
   the young camels of Midian and Ephah;
   all those from Sheba shall come.
They shall bring gold and frankincense,
   and shall proclaim the praise of the Lord.

Scripture: Matthew 2:1-12, NRSV - The Visit of the Wise Men

In the time of King Herod, after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea, wise men from the East came to Jerusalem, asking, ‘Where is the child who has been born king of the Jews? For we observed his star at its rising, and have come to pay him homage.’ When King Herod heard this, he was frightened, and all Jerusalem with him; and calling together all the chief priests and scribes of the people, he inquired of them where the Messiah was to be born. They told him, ‘In Bethlehem of Judea; for so it has been written by the prophet:
“And you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah,
   are by no means least among the rulers of Judah;
for from you shall come a ruler
   who is to shepherd my people Israel.” ’

Then Herod secretly called for the wise men and learned from them the exact time when the star had appeared. Then he sent them to Bethlehem, saying, ‘Go and search diligently for the child; and when you have found him, bring me word so that I may also go and pay him homage.’ When they had heard the king, they set out; and there, ahead of them, went the star that they had seen at its rising, until it stopped over the place where the child was. When they saw that the star had stopped, they were overwhelmed with joy. On entering the house, they saw the child with Mary his mother; and they knelt down and paid him homage. Then, opening their treasure-chests, they offered him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. And having been warned in a dream not to return to Herod, they left for their own country by another road.

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

Sermon: Darkness Will Cover the Earth, But the Lord Will Arise Upon You - Rev. 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.

CLOSING SONG: All the Poor and Powerless - El Dorado

Benediction 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. 

LA FIRST UMC LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT - authored by Tom Grode, affirmed by LA First UMC’s Church Council on July 13, 2021

We Acknowledge the Tongva people as original caretakers of this land and their ancient village Yaangna, what we call Downtown Los Angeles.

We Acknowledge the many Native Americans who moved Downtown to Bunker Hill due to the Indian Relocation Act of 1956 as “the 'old' Bunker Hill was effectively scalped by urban renewal in the 1960’s.”   

We Acknowledge the work of Skid Row Housing Justice activists in the 1960's and 70's to keep the low income hotel housing in Skid Row from suffering the Urban Renewal fate of Bunker Hill.

We Acknowledge the Native Indigenous peoples of Los Angeles, their special relationship to Mother Earth, and their hospitality, inviting us into that special relationship.

We Acknowledge the patience, kindness, and compassion of Mother Earth.

We Acknowledge our beginnings as a church in 1853 when Methodist leader Adam Bland was sent to evangelize the "rowdy and incorrigible” Southland.

We Acknowledge our relationship with Biddy Mason, one of the Matriarchs of early Los Angeles, and a member of Fort Street Methodist Episcopal Church (the first name our church bore) before she began First African Methodist Episcopal (FAME) out of her home, one of the spiritual pillars in Los Angeles for many decades.

We Acknowledge Biddy Mason as the Patron Saint of Downtown Los Angeles, an enslaved woman who fought for the freedom of all who were enslaved. She utilized her training as a midwife to buy land and used her wealth to help others in need.

We Acknowledge the words of Jesus "to whom much is given much is required" as a blessing for us to live out: the legacy and reality of owning the largest piece of undeveloped property in South Park.

Welcome to Tongvaland, Pamela J. Peters

We Acknowledge the land of Downtown Los Angeles - more than a dozen unique and dynamic neighborhoods - as land the eyes of the world look towards for leadership and solutions to the challenges facing all humanity.

We Acknowledge the mission of the United Methodist Church as founded by John Wesley: to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world.

Donate

Order of Worship for Christmas Day: The Word Became Flesh and Lived Among Us

Order of Worship

GREETING:

Jesus Christ is born today!
Alleluia!

HYMN 

*OPENING - O Come All Ye Faithful verses 1,2,3,6 El Dorado

*PASSING OF THE PEACE - Through the act of passing the peace of Christ, we offer our sincere desire to love our neighbor.

PRAYER OF ILLUMINATION

Be born in our hearing, Lord Jesus, and open our lives to you:
Our Word, our Light, our Life.
Amen. 

WORD AND RESPONSE

GOSPEL LESSON: John 1:1-2, NRSV - Rev. Mandy McDow
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God.

Hymn on “Word” Lo, How a Rose E’er Blooming

Prayers: For the mission of the church, to listen and follow the Word made flesh ...

How are we addressing spiritual and physical hunger?

Gospel Reading John 1:3-5

All things came into being through him, and without him not one thing came into being. What has come into being in him was life, and the life was the light of all people. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not overcome it.

Hymn on “Life” Come, Thou Long Expected Jesus

Prayers: For our social, economic, and political life — to reflect the light of Christ, and build, sustain, and protect life of every kind in our world

Gospel Reading John 1:6-8

There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. He came as a witness to testify to the light, so that all might believe through him. He himself was not the light, but he came to testify to the light.

Hymn on “Witness” It Came Upon a Midnight Clear

Prayers: For all who proclaim the gospel, and for ourselves to proclaim Christ faithfully

Gospel Reading John 1:9-11

The true light, which enlightens everyone, was coming into the world.

He was in the world, and the world came into being through him; yet the world did not know him. He came to what was his own, and his own people did not accept him.

Hymn on “Unwelcome,” CAROL - In the Bleak Midwinter Laurie Ray & Mandy McDow, vocals & guitar; Wes Goldsberry, violin  

Prayers: For all who are left behind, isolated, harmed, or unwelcomed by the world, and for all who are sick

Gospel Reading John 1:12-14

But to all who received him, who believed in his name, he gave power to become children of God, who were born, not of blood or of the will of the flesh or of the will of man, but of God.

And the Word became flesh and lived among us, and we have seen his glory, the glory as of a father’s only son, full of grace and truth.

Hymn on Seeing the Glory Hark! The Herald Angels Sing

Reflection: “The Word became flesh and lived among us…”. Rev. Mandy Mcdow

THANKSGIVING AND OFFERING

 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, forever. Amen. 

SENDING FORTH

Hymn “Joy to the World”

Dismissal
We have seen his glory, the glory as of God’s only-begotten, full of grace and truth.
How great our joy! Go forth, and proclaim it!
Thanks be to God.

BENEDICTION                                                                      Rev. Mandy McDow
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. 

*                      *                      *
EL DORADO - SONGS OF THE SEASON
Enjoy the music of our own El Dorado this season here!

Be sure to join us for Sunday worship on FB/YouTube/Twitter and In Person
January 8, 2023 at 10:30 a.m.
Los Angeles First United Methodist Church
www.LAFirstUMC.org
Creative • Courageous • Compassionate

Donate

Order of Worship for Christmas Eve Service of Lessons and Carols

THE LESSONS OF THE HISTORY OF OUR SALVATION

*OPENING - O Come All Ye Faithful verses 1,2,3,6 El Dorado

 GREETING                                                                                Rev. Mandy Sloan McDow

 FIRST LESSON - Isaiah 9:2, 6-7, NRSV Olusheyi Banjo                                  

     One: We who have walked in darkness have seen a great light; 
ALL: We, who lived in darkness, on us a light has shined.
One: For a child has been born for us, a Son given to us,
ALL: He shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace!
He will rule with justice and righteousness from this time onward and forevermore!  

 *HYMN - O Holy Night El Dorado                                                                      

LIGHTING OF THE CHRIST CANDLE             Ginny, Alex, and Iolani Brideau                             

Watch and wait for Christ’s coming!
We light candles of hope, peace, joy, and love, remembering the promises of God with prayer.
Hear these words from the prophet Isaiah: (Isaiah 9:2-3a, 4-5a, 6-7, NRSV)

The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who lived in a land of deep darkness—on them light has shined. You have multiplied the nation, you have increased its joy; they rejoice before you as with joy at the harvest… For the yoke of their burden, and the bar across their shoulders, the rod of their oppressor, you have broken as on the day of Midian.
For a child has been born for us, a son given to us; authority rests upon his shoulders; and he is named Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. His authority shall grow continually, and there shall be endless peace for the throne of David and his kingdom. He will establish and uphold it with justice and with righteousness from this time onward and forevermore. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will do this.

We light the first candle in hope.
We light the second candle in peace.
We light the pink candle in joy.
We light the fourth candle in love.
Now as the voices sing from the heavens, God is born among us! We light the Christ candle to celebrate this gift from God.

Glory to God in the highest!

*HYMN                              “O Come, O Come Emmanuel” v.5

 SECOND LESSON: Isaiah 11:1-4, NRSV Evan Schilling and Andrea Brudnicki
The Peaceful Kingdom
A shoot shall come out from the stock of Jesse, and a branch shall grow out of his roots. 
The spirit of the Lord shall rest on him, the spirit of wisdom and understanding,
 the spirit of counsel and might, the spirit of knowledge and the fear of the Lord.
His delight shall be in the fear of the Lord.
He shall not judge by what his eyes see, or decide by what his ears hear; 
but with righteousness he shall judge the poor, and decide with equity for the meek of the earth;
he shall strike the earth with the rod of his mouth, and with the breath of his lips he shall kill the wicked.

*CAROL - It Came Upon the Midnight Clear El Dorado                                                      

THIRD LESSON: Luke 1:26-33, 38, NRSV              Debbie Bowlus
The Birth of Jesus Foretold
In the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent by God to a town in Galilee called Nazareth, to a virgin engaged to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. The virgin’s name was Mary. And he came to her and said, ‘Greetings, favored one! The Lord is with you.’ But she was much perplexed by his words and pondered what sort of greeting this might be. The angel said to her, ‘Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. And now, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you will name him Jesus. He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Most High, and the Lord God will give to him the throne of his ancestor David. He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of his kingdom there will be no end.’  Then Mary said, ‘Here am I, the servant of the Lord; let it be with me according to your word.’ Then the angel departed from her.

CAROL - O Little Town of Bethlehem, v. 1-3

PRAYER OF CONFESSION                              Tom Grode    
God of Glory, we celebrate the birth of the Christ as a child on this night. This is how you came to redeem us, not as a king in splendor, but as an infant in swaddling cloths. Just as you have changed the world, change us, that we might see your might clothed in humility. Help us to praise you, to honor Jesus with gifts of mercy. Help us to welcome your perfect love with our love for one another. Help us to hear the call of the needy and the cry of the world for peace. Forgive us. Heal us. Redeem us. Amen.   

ASSURANCE OF PARDON        “O Little Town of Bethlehem,” v. 4                   

*PASSING OF THE PEACE - Through the act of passing the peace of Christ, we offer our sincere desire to love our neighbor.

FOURTH LESSON: Luke 2: 1-7, NRSV          Oscar Gomez
The Birth of Jesus
In those days, a decree went out from Emperor Augustus that all the world should be registered. This was the first registration and was taken while Quirinius was governor of Syria. All went to their own towns to be registered. Joseph also went from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to the city of David called Bethlehem, because he was descended from the house and family of David. He went to be registered with Mary, to whom he was engaged and who was expecting a child. While they were there, the time came for her to deliver her child. And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in bands of cloth, and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn.

 CAROL - Watch Over Us              Stephen Folds, Mandy McDow                     

FIFTH LESSON: Luke 2:8-20                 Olusheyi Banjo
The Shepherds and the Angels
In that region there were shepherds living in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. Then an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, ‘Do not be afraid; for see—I am bringing you good news of great joy for all the people: to you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign for you: you will find a child wrapped in bands of cloth and lying in a manger.’  And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host, praising God and saying, 
‘Glory to God in the highest heaven,
 and on earth peace among those whom he favors!’
When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, ‘Let us go now to Bethlehem and see this thing that has taken place, which the Lord has made known to us.’  So they went with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the child lying in the manger. When they saw this, they made known what had been told them about this child; and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds told them. But Mary treasured all these words and pondered them in her heart. The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen, as it had been told them.

CAROL - Hark! The Herald Angels Sing El Dorado                                                                                                                              

GOSPEL LESSON: John 1:1-14, NRSV Rev. Mandy McDow
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things came into being through him, and without him not one thing came into being. What has come into being in him was life, and the life was the light of all people. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not overcome it.

There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. He came as a witness to testify to the light, so that all might believe through him. He himself was not the light, but he came to testify to the light. The true light, which enlightens everyone, was coming into the world.

He was in the world, and the world came into being through him; yet the world did not know him. He came to what was his own, and his own people did not accept him. But to all who received him, who believed in his name, he gave power to become children of God, who were born, not of blood or of the will of the flesh or of the will of man, but of God.

And the Word became flesh and lived among us, and we have seen his glory, the glory as of a father’s only son, full of grace and truth.

HOMILY         The Darkness Did Not Overcome It    Rev. Mandy McDow

 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, forever. Amen. 

 CAROL - Joy to the World El Dorado

 CEREMONY OF LIGHTS

 *CAROL – Silent Night, Holy Night El Dorado

BENEDICTION                                                                      Rev. Mandy McDow
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. 

*                      *                      *
EL DORADO - SONGS OF THE SEASON
Enjoy the music of our own El Dorado this season here!

Be sure to join us for Sunday worship on FB/YouTube/Twitter and In Person
January 8, 2023 at 10:30 a.m.
Los Angeles First United Methodist Church
www.LAFirstUMC.org
Creative • Courageous • Compassionate

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Order of Worship for Advent IV, December 18, 2022: God With Us

Call to Worship - You are invited to light a candle in your home to welcome the presence of the Holy Spirit

Joy to the World! - El Dorado

Welcome - Stephen Folds

O Come, O Come, Emmanuel, v. 4 - El Dorado

Lighting of the Advent Wreath: Fourth Sunday of Advent: December 18, 2022 - GIVE YOU A SIGN
Isaiah 7:10-16, Matthew 1:18-25

Reader One: Isaiah said that the Lord spoke to the king and said, “Ask a sign of the LORD your God; let it be deep as Sheol or high as heaven” (Isaiah 7:11 NRSV). But when the king refused, God would not be stopped. “Therefore, the Lord himself will give you a sign. Look, the young woman is with child and shall bear a son and shall name him Immanuel” (Isaiah 7:14 NRSV).

Reader Two: God wants us to know, even when we aren’t sure ourselves. God wants us to experience God’s presence, even when we think we can handle life on our own. God sends us signs of God’s presence with us; all we need to do is keep our eyes open and look.

Reader One: "Look, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall name him Emmanuel," which means, ‘God is with us.’" When Joseph awoke from sleep, he did as the angel of the Lord commanded him; he took her as his wife, but had no marital relations with her until she had borne a son; and he named him Jesus (Matthew 1:23-25 NRSV).

Reader Two: We light these candles, the candle of joyous hope, of proclaimed peace, of deep everlasting joy, and today of presence that speaks of love, as a sign that no matter our circumstance, we know we are not alone.

Light all four candles of the Advent wreath.

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. 

All who need a meal on Sunday, young and old, are invited to come sit down at the table with us for a hot, catered breakfast to get their day started! Our volunteers will be acting as servers, so that all who come join us have time to sit and enjoy their breakfast

LA First UMC is starting this ministry with the hopes of helping to fill the need for hot meals served on the weekends when most meal-providing services are closed in DTLA.

LA First UMC's Sunday Breakfast Ministry

Sundays 8:30-9:30am Pacific Time
Outside, at the picnic tables, in the parking lot on the South East Corner of Olympic and Flower
Next to Villa Flores located at 1020 S Flower St

Update to Volunteering Process

In order for the hour to run smoothly and efficiently, Debbie has planned to have jobs for 6 volunteers each week. Don't worry there are plenty of Sundays to sign up for the rest of the year. Please reach out to Debbie to get on the volunteering calendar. She can be reached at debbie@lafirstumc.org. Once you are signed up to be one of the 6 volunteers for a given week, Debbie will send out an email the Friday or Saturday before your volunteer shift to confirm your participation.

Forming an Young Adult Group at LA First UMC

The LA First UMC Admin office has sent out questions asking several of our young adult members their vision the formation of a Young Adult Group within our community. If you have not received an email questionnaire and would like to join the group have some input for activities, email office@lafirstumc.org

LA First UMC United Women in Faith Christmas Meal at El Cholo!
Our UWF are hosting their annual holiday celebration on Sunday Dec 11th after church at El Cholo across the street.
All are welcome, but space is limited. Email Sara Munshin to reserve your spot!

Bishop Dottie Escobedo-Frank, formerly the senior pastor of Paradise Valley United Methodist Church in Paradise Valley, Arizona, is the jurisdiction’s third Hispanic bishop. Bishop Escobedo-Frank has been assigned to serve in the California-Pacific Annual Conference.

In her election remarks, Escobedo-Frank acknowledged her rich family history and how it calls her to ministry. Her great-grandfather on her mother’s side was a Methodist circuit rider. Her grandmother crossed the Rio Grande while in labor with her father to find religious freedom.

“I have deep roots in the Methodist tradition and I have deep connection to the Latinos of our country and of the world,” she said. “Today it feels like they’re being married somehow, two parts of me again.”

Bishop Karen Oliveto remains in the Mountain Sky Episcopal Area. Bishop Minerva Carcaño, while under suspension, remains in the California-Nevada Annual Conference.

COMMUNITY RESOURCES:

LA Homeless Services Authority Winter Shelters Are Now Open Through March 31st
Shelters operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Call 211 for a referral. https://www.lahsa.org/winter-shelter

Registration is no longer required for the monkey pox vaccinations now available for eligible residents. 
For information and updates on monkeypox, visit ph.lacounty.gov/monkeypox

COVID Testing:
You can get your digital vaccination record: myvaccinerecord.cdph.ca.gov
healthvana.com or carbonhealth.com
LA City is now offering free testing, without appointments at City-run sites. Find a site near you: Coronavirus.LACity.org/Testing. For additional COVID-19 resources: Coronavirus.LACity.org/Resources

Vaccines:
Flu Shots: Getting a flu shot is fast, easy, and convenient. Get yours today: Call 2-1-1 or go to: https://admin.publichealth.lacounty.gov/media/FluSeason/index1.htm
Covid Testing:
Getting tested is now easier than ever with LA County's Pick-Up Testing Kits program. Visit ow.ly/tfIu50Hsnh5 for a list of locations where you can get a kit at no cost. The program will allow residents to pick up a PCR test kit & return it at designated locations. Results will be available within 24-48 hrs.

LA City is now offering free testing, without appointments at City-run sites. Find a site near you: Coronavirus.LACity.org/Testing
For additional COVID-19 resources: Coronavirus.LACity.org/Resources
You can get your digital vaccination record: myvaccinerecord.cdph.ca.gov
healthvana.com carbonhealth.com

  • LA County is bringing the COVID-19 vaccines to homebound residents. Need to get vaccinated at home? Call the LA Public Health Vaccine Call Center at 833-540-0473 between 8 AM and 8:30 PM, any day of the week, for assistance.

  • Need a ride? Uber and Lyft are providing free rides to and from vaccination sites. Don't have the apps? Call 833-540-0473 to book your ride.

  • There are several vaccine sites set up by Carbon Health that you can check: https://carbonhealth.com/

  • LA County: http://www.publichealth.lacounty.gov/media/Coronavirus/vaccine/index.htm

  • Orange County residents and workers: Register for a vaccination appointment at https://othena.co

CALL TO PRAYER: Hark! The Herald Angels Sing - El Dorado

Joys and Concerns: We believe that the best way to bear our burdens is to share them with one another. You are invited 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.

Scripture: Matthew 1:18-25, NRSV - The Birth of Jesus the Messiah

Now the birth of Jesus the Messiah took place in this way. When his mother Mary had been engaged to Joseph, but before they lived together, she was found to be with child from the Holy Spirit. Her husband Joseph, being a righteous man and unwilling to expose her to public disgrace, planned to dismiss her quietly. But just when he had resolved to do this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, ‘Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary as your wife, for the child conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will bear a son, and you are to name him Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins.’ All this took place to fulfil what had been spoken by the Lord through the prophet:
‘Look, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son,
   and they shall name him Emmanuel’,
which means, ‘God is with us.’ When Joseph awoke from sleep, he did as the angel of the Lord commanded him; he took her as his wife, but had no marital relations with her until she had borne a son; and he named him Jesus.

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

Sermon: God With Us - Rev. 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.

CLOSING SONG: It Came Upon A Midnight Clear - El Dorado

Benediction 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. 

LA FIRST UMC LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT - authored by Tom Grode, affirmed by LA First UMC’s Church Council on July 13, 2021

We Acknowledge the Tongva people as original caretakers of this land and their ancient village Yaangna, what we call Downtown Los Angeles.

We Acknowledge the many Native Americans who moved Downtown to Bunker Hill due to the Indian Relocation Act of 1956 as “the 'old' Bunker Hill was effectively scalped by urban renewal in the 1960’s.”   

We Acknowledge the work of Skid Row Housing Justice activists in the 1960's and 70's to keep the low income hotel housing in Skid Row from suffering the Urban Renewal fate of Bunker Hill.

We Acknowledge the Native Indigenous peoples of Los Angeles, their special relationship to Mother Earth, and their hospitality, inviting us into that special relationship.

We Acknowledge the patience, kindness, and compassion of Mother Earth.

We Acknowledge our beginnings as a church in 1853 when Methodist leader Adam Bland was sent to evangelize the "rowdy and incorrigible” Southland.

We Acknowledge our relationship with Biddy Mason, one of the Matriarchs of early Los Angeles, and a member of Fort Street Methodist Episcopal Church (the first name our church bore) before she began First African Methodist Episcopal (FAME) out of her home, one of the spiritual pillars in Los Angeles for many decades.

We Acknowledge Biddy Mason as the Patron Saint of Downtown Los Angeles, an enslaved woman who fought for the freedom of all who were enslaved. She utilized her training as a midwife to buy land and used her wealth to help others in need.

We Acknowledge the words of Jesus "to whom much is given much is required" as a blessing for us to live out: the legacy and reality of owning the largest piece of undeveloped property in South Park.

Welcome to Tongvaland, Pamela J. Peters

We Acknowledge the land of Downtown Los Angeles - more than a dozen unique and dynamic neighborhoods - as land the eyes of the world look towards for leadership and solutions to the challenges facing all humanity.

We Acknowledge the mission of the United Methodist Church as founded by John Wesley: to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world.

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Order of Worship for Advent III, December 11, 2022: Children, Go Where I Send Thee

Call to Worship - You are invited to light a candle in your home to welcome the presence of the Holy Spirit

Children, Go Where I Send Thee - El Dorado

Welcome - Stephen Folds

O Come, O Come, Emmanuel, v. 3 - El Dorado

Lighting of the Advent Wreath: Second Sunday of Advent: December 11, 2022 - Third Sunday of Advent: December 11, 2022 - THE LORD’S HIGHWAY
Isaiah 35:1-10, Psalm 146:5-10

Readers: UWF - Sara Munshin

Reader One: “The wilderness and the dry land shall be glad; the desert shall rejoice and blossom; like the crocus. It shall blossom abundantly and rejoice with joy and singing . . .
Reader Two: A highway shall be there, and it shall be called the Holy Way; the unclean shall not travel on it, but it shall be for God's people; no traveler, not even fools, shall go astray . . .
Reader Three: And the ransomed of the LORD shall return and come to Zion with singing; everlasting joy shall be upon their heads; they shall obtain joy and gladness, and sorrow and sighing shall flee away.” (Isaiah 35:1-2, 8, 10 NRSV).
Reader One: The prophet Isaiah tells us about the joy of ascending to God’s house. The prophet tells us to imagine being set free, being unburdened, being released to live, to fully live in the grace and wonder of life itself, surrounded by those who love us like no one else. And then he tells us that the journey to get there is just as much a joy.
Reader Two: The Psalmist says “Happy are these whose help is the God of Jacob, whose hope is in the Lord . . . who made heaven and earth . . . who keeps faith . . . who executes justice . . . gives food . . . sets prisoners free . . . opens eyes . . . lifts up . . . watches over . . . upholds . . . The Lord will reign forever, your God, O Zion, for all generations. Praise the Lord!” (Psalm 146 NRSV)
Reader Three: We light these candles, the candle of joyous hope, of proclaimed peace, and of deep and everlasting joy, as a sign that we are those who walk with a skip in our step because we can see the destination, and it is pure joy. We are ascending to God’s promise.

Light three candles on the Advent wreath. If using a rose or pink-colored candle in the wreath, this is the time to light that one.

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. 

All who need a meal on Sunday, young and old, are invited to come sit down at the table with us for a hot, catered breakfast to get their day started! Our volunteers will be acting as servers, so that all who come join us have time to sit and enjoy their breakfast

LA First UMC is starting this ministry with the hopes of helping to fill the need for hot meals served on the weekends when most meal-providing services are closed in DTLA.

LA First UMC's Sunday Breakfast Ministry

Sundays 8:30-9:30am Pacific Time
Outside, at the picnic tables, in the parking lot on the South East Corner of Olympic and Flower
Next to Villa Flores located at 1020 S Flower St

Update to Volunteering Process

In order for the hour to run smoothly and efficiently, Debbie has planned to have jobs for 6 volunteers each week. Don't worry there are plenty of Sundays to sign up for the rest of the year. Please reach out to Debbie to get on the volunteering calendar. She can be reached at debbie@lafirstumc.org. Once you are signed up to be one of the 6 volunteers for a given week, Debbie will send out an email the Friday or Saturday before your volunteer shift to confirm your participation.

Forming an Young Adult Group at LA First UMC

The LA First UMC Admin office has sent out questions asking several of our young adult members their vision the formation of a Young Adult Group within our community. If you have not received an email questionnaire and would like to join the group have some input for activities, email office@lafirstumc.org

LA First UMC United Women in Faith Christmas Meal at El Cholo!
Our UWF are hosting their annual holiday celebration on Sunday Dec 11th after church at El Cholo across the street.
All are welcome, but space is limited. Email Sara Munshin to reserve your spot!

California Pacific Annual Conference Advent Bible Study
The California-Pacific Conference has a vision of ending spiritual and physical hunger. Throughout the Advent Season, you are invited to join a weekly video-based, online study and discussion to explore ways you can prepare here and now for what lies ahead.

Each session will be 60 minutes and will feature a video of a Cal-Pac ministry that is living and leading into our vision. The discussions will center on various scripture readings, discussions about the theme, and some practical applications for each participant. Click Here to Register.

The Scripture text at each session will be:

  • December 1 | HOPE | Matthew 24:36-44

  • December 8 | PEACE | Matthew 3: 1-12

  • December 15 | LOVE | Luke 1: 46b-55

  • December 22 | JOY | Matthew 1: 18-25

Bishop Dottie Escobedo-Frank, formerly the senior pastor of Paradise Valley United Methodist Church in Paradise Valley, Arizona, is the jurisdiction’s third Hispanic bishop. Bishop Escobedo-Frank has been assigned to serve in the California-Pacific Annual Conference.

In her election remarks, Escobedo-Frank acknowledged her rich family history and how it calls her to ministry. Her great-grandfather on her mother’s side was a Methodist circuit rider. Her grandmother crossed the Rio Grande while in labor with her father to find religious freedom.

“I have deep roots in the Methodist tradition and I have deep connection to the Latinos of our country and of the world,” she said. “Today it feels like they’re being married somehow, two parts of me again.”

Bishop Karen Oliveto remains in the Mountain Sky Episcopal Area. Bishop Minerva Carcaño, while under suspension, remains in the California-Nevada Annual Conference.

COMMUNITY RESOURCES:

LA Homeless Services Authority Winter Shelters Are Now Open Through March 31st
Shelters operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Call 211 for a referral. https://www.lahsa.org/winter-shelter

Registration is no longer required for the monkey pox vaccinations now available for eligible residents. 
For information and updates on monkeypox, visit ph.lacounty.gov/monkeypox

COVID Testing:
You can get your digital vaccination record: myvaccinerecord.cdph.ca.gov
healthvana.com or carbonhealth.com
LA City is now offering free testing, without appointments at City-run sites. Find a site near you: Coronavirus.LACity.org/Testing. For additional COVID-19 resources: Coronavirus.LACity.org/Resources

Vaccines:
Flu Shots: Getting a flu shot is fast, easy, and convenient. Get yours today: Call 2-1-1 or go to: https://admin.publichealth.lacounty.gov/media/FluSeason/index1.htm
Covid Testing:
Getting tested is now easier than ever with LA County's Pick-Up Testing Kits program. Visit ow.ly/tfIu50Hsnh5 for a list of locations where you can get a kit at no cost. The program will allow residents to pick up a PCR test kit & return it at designated locations. Results will be available within 24-48 hrs.

LA City is now offering free testing, without appointments at City-run sites. Find a site near you: Coronavirus.LACity.org/Testing
For additional COVID-19 resources: Coronavirus.LACity.org/Resources
You can get your digital vaccination record: myvaccinerecord.cdph.ca.gov
healthvana.com carbonhealth.com

  • LA County is bringing the COVID-19 vaccines to homebound residents. Need to get vaccinated at home? Call the LA Public Health Vaccine Call Center at 833-540-0473 between 8 AM and 8:30 PM, any day of the week, for assistance.

  • Need a ride? Uber and Lyft are providing free rides to and from vaccination sites. Don't have the apps? Call 833-540-0473 to book your ride.

  • There are several vaccine sites set up by Carbon Health that you can check: https://carbonhealth.com/

  • LA County: http://www.publichealth.lacounty.gov/media/Coronavirus/vaccine/index.htm

  • Orange County residents and workers: Register for a vaccination appointment at https://othena.co

CALL TO PRAYER: God With Us - El Dorado

Joys and Concerns: We believe that the best way to bear our burdens is to share them with one another. You are invited 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.

Scripture: Luke 1:46b-55, NRSV - Mary’s Song of Praise

And Mary said,
‘My soul magnifies the Lord,
   and my spirit rejoices in God my Saviour,
for he has looked with favour on the lowliness of his servant.
   Surely, from now on all generations will call me blessed;
for the Mighty One has done great things for me,
   and holy is his name.
His mercy is for those who fear him
   from generation to generation.
He has shown strength with his arm;
   he has scattered the proud in the thoughts of their hearts.
He has brought down the powerful from their thrones,
   and lifted up the lowly;
he has filled the hungry with good things,
   and sent the rich away empty.
He has helped his servant Israel,
   in remembrance of his mercy,
according to the promise he made to our ancestors,
   to Abraham and to his descendants for ever.’

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

Sermon: Children, Go Where I Send Thee - Rev. 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.

CLOSING SONG: O Little Town of Bethelehem - El Dorado

Benediction 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. 

LA FIRST UMC LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT - authored by Tom Grode, affirmed by LA First UMC’s Church Council on July 13, 2021

We Acknowledge the Tongva people as original caretakers of this land and their ancient village Yaangna, what we call Downtown Los Angeles.

We Acknowledge the many Native Americans who moved Downtown to Bunker Hill due to the Indian Relocation Act of 1956 as “the 'old' Bunker Hill was effectively scalped by urban renewal in the 1960’s.”   

We Acknowledge the work of Skid Row Housing Justice activists in the 1960's and 70's to keep the low income hotel housing in Skid Row from suffering the Urban Renewal fate of Bunker Hill.

We Acknowledge the Native Indigenous peoples of Los Angeles, their special relationship to Mother Earth, and their hospitality, inviting us into that special relationship.

We Acknowledge the patience, kindness, and compassion of Mother Earth.

We Acknowledge our beginnings as a church in 1853 when Methodist leader Adam Bland was sent to evangelize the "rowdy and incorrigible” Southland.

We Acknowledge our relationship with Biddy Mason, one of the Matriarchs of early Los Angeles, and a member of Fort Street Methodist Episcopal Church (the first name our church bore) before she began First African Methodist Episcopal (FAME) out of her home, one of the spiritual pillars in Los Angeles for many decades.

We Acknowledge Biddy Mason as the Patron Saint of Downtown Los Angeles, an enslaved woman who fought for the freedom of all who were enslaved. She utilized her training as a midwife to buy land and used her wealth to help others in need.

We Acknowledge the words of Jesus "to whom much is given much is required" as a blessing for us to live out: the legacy and reality of owning the largest piece of undeveloped property in South Park.

Welcome to Tongvaland, Pamela J. Peters

We Acknowledge the land of Downtown Los Angeles - more than a dozen unique and dynamic neighborhoods - as land the eyes of the world look towards for leadership and solutions to the challenges facing all humanity.

We Acknowledge the mission of the United Methodist Church as founded by John Wesley: to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world.

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Order of Worship for Advent II, December 4, 2022: People, Get Ready

Call to Worship - You are invited to light a candle in your home to welcome the presence of the Holy Spirit

We Lost Everything/Prepare Ye, the Way of the Lord - El Dorado

Welcome - Stephen Folds

O Come, O Come, Emmanuel, v. 2 - El Dorado

Lighting of the Advent Wreath: Second Sunday of Advent: December 4, 2022 - STAND AS A SIGNAL
Isaiah 11:1-10, Romans 15:4-13, Matthew 3:1-12

Readers: The LeCroix Family

Reader One: “They will not hurt or destroy on all my holy mountain, for the earth will be full of the knowledge of the Lord as the waters cover the sea. On that day the root of Jesse shall stand as a signal to the peoples; the nations shall inquire of him, and his dwelling shall be glorious” (Isaiah 11:9-10 NRSV).

Reader Two: We are the followers of that root of Jesse Isaiah spoke of. We are the ones who are now called to stand as a signal to the world, to all of creation, that peace is the will of the one who created us. Peace is the knowledge of the Lord that we proclaim from sea to shining sea.

Reader One: “In those days John the Baptist appeared in the wilderness of Judea proclaiming. “Repent for the kingdom of heaven has come near.” And “bear fruit worthy of repentance” (Matthew 3:1,2, 8 NRSV).

Reader Two: We light these candles, the candle of joyful hope and the candle of proclaimed peace, in part to remind ourselves that we are a people rising toward God’s promise. But we also light them as a sign to the world, an announcement there are some who hold on to hope and there are some who work the ways of peace. We stand as a sign that Emmanuel is still our fervent prayer.

Light two candles of the Advent wreath.

Baptism of Max LeCroix

Brothers and sisters in Christ:
Through the Sacrament of Baptism
we are initiated into Christ's holy Church.
We are incorporated into God's mighty acts of salvation
and given new birth through water and the Spirit.
All this is God's gift, offered to us without price.

I present Max LeCroix for baptism.

RENUNCIATION OF SIN AND PROFESSION OF FAITH

On behalf of the whole Church, I ask you:
Do you renounce the spiritual forces of wickedness,
reject the evil powers of this world,
and repent of your sin?

I do.

Do you accept the freedom and power God gives you
to resist evil, injustice, and oppression
in whatever forms they present themselves?

I do.

Do you confess Jesus Christ as your Savior,
put your whole trust in his grace,
and promise to serve him as your Lord,

in union with the Church which Christ has opened
to people of all ages, nations, and races?

I do.

Will you nurture this child
in Christ's holy Church,
that by your teaching and example they may be guided
to accept God's grace for themselves,
to profess their faith openly,
and to lead a Christian life?

I will.

(To the congregation): Do you, as Christ's body, the Church,
reaffirm both your rejection of sin
and your commitment to Christ?

We do.

Will you nurture one another in the Christian faith and life
and include these persons now before you in your care?

With God's help we will proclaim the good news
and live according to the example of Christ.
We will surround these persons
with a community of love and forgiveness,
that they may grow in their trust of God,
and be found faithful in their service to others.
We will pray for them,
that they may be true disciples
who walk in the way that leads to life.

Let us join together in professing the Christian faith
as contained in the Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments.

Do you believe in God the Father?
I believe in God, the Father Almighty,
creator of heaven and earth.

Do you believe in Jesus Christ?
I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord,
[who was conceived by the Holy Spirit,
born of the Virgin Mary,
suffered under Pontius Pilate,
was crucified, died, and was buried;
he descended to the dead.
On the third day he rose again;
he ascended into heaven,
is seated at the right hand of the Father,
and will come again to judge the living and the dead.]

Do you believe in the Holy Spirit?
I believe in the Holy Spirit,
the holy catholic church,
the communion of saints,
the forgiveness of sins,
the resurrection of the body,
and the life everlasting.

THANKSGIVING OVER THE WATER

The Lord be with you.
And also with you.

Let us pray.

Eternal God:
When nothing existed but chaos,
you swept across the dark waters
and brought forth light.
In the days of Noah
you saved those on the ark through water.
After the flood you set in the clouds a rainbow.
When you saw your people as slaves in Egypt,
you led them to freedom through the sea.
Their children you brought through the Jordan
to the land which you promised.

Sing to the Lord, all the earth.
Tell of God's mercy each day.

In the fullness of time you sent Jesus,
nurtured in the water of a womb.
He was baptized by John and anointed by your Spirit.
He called his disciples
to share in the baptism of his death and resurrection
and to make disciples of all nations.

Declare Christ’s works to the nations,
his glory among all the people.

Pour out your Holy Spirit,
to bless this gift of water and those who receive it,
to wash away their sin
and clothe them in righteousness
throughout their lives,
that, dying and being raised with Christ,
they may share in his final victory.

All praise to you, Eternal God,
through your Son Jesus Christ,
who with you and the Holy Spirit
lives and reigns for ever. Amen.

BAPTISM WITH LAYING ON OF HANDS

Max, I baptize you in the name of the Father,
and of the Son,
and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

The Holy Spirit work within you,
that being born through water and the Spirit,
you may be a faithful disciple of Jesus Christ. Amen.

Now it is our joy to welcome
our new sisters and brothers in Christ.

Through baptism
you are incorporated by the Holy Spirit
into God's new creation
and made to share in Christ's royal priesthood.
We are all one in Christ Jesus.
With joy and thanksgiving we welcome you
as members of the family of Christ.

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. 

All who need a meal on Sunday, young and old, are invited to come sit down at the table with us for a hot, catered breakfast to get their day started! Our volunteers will be acting as servers, so that all who come join us have time to sit and enjoy their breakfast

LA First UMC is starting this ministry with the hopes of helping to fill the need for hot meals served on the weekends when most meal-providing services are closed in DTLA.

LA First UMC's Sunday Breakfast Ministry

Sundays 8:30-9:30am Pacific Time
Outside, at the picnic tables, in the parking lot on the South East Corner of Olympic and Flower
Next to Villa Flores located at 1020 S Flower St

Update to Volunteering Process

In order for the hour to run smoothly and efficiently, Debbie has planned to have jobs for 6 volunteers each week. Don't worry there are plenty of Sundays to sign up for the rest of the year. Please reach out to Debbie to get on the volunteering calendar. She can be reached at debbie@lafirstumc.org. Once you are signed up to be one of the 6 volunteers for a given week, Debbie will send out an email the Friday or Saturday before your volunteer shift to confirm your participation.

Forming an Young Adult Group at LA First UMC

The LA First UMC Admin office has sent out questions asking several of our young adult members their vision the formation of a Young Adult Group within our community. If you have not received an email questionnaire and would like to join the group have some input for activities, email office@lafirstumc.org

LA First UMC United Women in Faith Christmas Meal at El Cholo!
Our UWF are hosting their annual holiday celebration on Sunday Dec 11th after church at El Cholo across the street.
All are welcome, but space is limited. Email Sara Munshin to reserve your spot!

California Pacific Annual Conference Advent Bible Study
The California-Pacific Conference has a vision of ending spiritual and physical hunger. Throughout the Advent Season, you are invited to join a weekly video-based, online study and discussion to explore ways you can prepare here and now for what lies ahead.

Each session will be 60 minutes and will feature a video of a Cal-Pac ministry that is living and leading into our vision. The discussions will center on various scripture readings, discussions about the theme, and some practical applications for each participant. Click Here to Register.

The Scripture text at each session will be:

  • December 1 | HOPE | Matthew 24:36-44

  • December 8 | PEACE | Matthew 3: 1-12

  • December 15 | LOVE | Luke 1: 46b-55

  • December 22 | JOY | Matthew 1: 18-25

Bishop Dottie Escobedo-Frank, formerly the senior pastor of Paradise Valley United Methodist Church in Paradise Valley, Arizona, is the jurisdiction’s third Hispanic bishop. Bishop Escobedo-Frank has been assigned to serve in the California-Pacific Annual Conference.

In her election remarks, Escobedo-Frank acknowledged her rich family history and how it calls her to ministry. Her great-grandfather on her mother’s side was a Methodist circuit rider. Her grandmother crossed the Rio Grande while in labor with her father to find religious freedom.

“I have deep roots in the Methodist tradition and I have deep connection to the Latinos of our country and of the world,” she said. “Today it feels like they’re being married somehow, two parts of me again.”

Bishop Karen Oliveto remains in the Mountain Sky Episcopal Area. Bishop Minerva Carcaño, while under suspension, remains in the California-Nevada Annual Conference.

COMMUNITY RESOURCES:

Registration is no longer required for the monkey pox vaccinations now available for eligible residents. 
For information and updates on monkeypox, visit ph.lacounty.gov/monkeypox

COVID Testing:
You can get your digital vaccination record: myvaccinerecord.cdph.ca.gov
healthvana.com or carbonhealth.com
LA City is now offering free testing, without appointments at City-run sites. Find a site near you: Coronavirus.LACity.org/Testing. For additional COVID-19 resources: Coronavirus.LACity.org/Resources

Vaccines:

  • In case you missed it: Pfizer's #COVID19 vaccine is approved for kids 5-11!! Children may now get vaccinated at select, walk-up clinics county-wide. Please call ahead to check availability. Visit vaccinatelacounty.com for info or talk to your child’s doctor

  • All COVID-19 vaccines are now approved for boosters - Pfizer, Moderna, and Johnson & Johnson. People may also receive booster doses that are different than their original vaccine. For more info and to make an appointment, visit bit.ly/3m3Uspo--

  • CVS is already prepared to administer boosters. You can make an appointment for the booster of your choice at https://www.cvs.com/vaccine/intake/store/covid-screener/covid-qns

  • Vaccine requirements are in effect, LA County is providing mobile vaccinations, testing vendors, as well as a toolkit for owners of bars and businesses that serve alcohol, as well as for those running mega events. For more info visit, ph.lacounty.gov/coronavirus

  • California residents can now request in-home vaccinations and/or transit assistance to get vaccinated by registering at MyTurn.‍ca.‍gov or by calling the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) COVID-19 Call Center at 1-833-422-4255.

  • Everyone 12 years and older in LA County is now eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. Children 12-17 are only eligible to receive the Pfizer vaccine—to find a location near you, visit bit.ly/PfizerSites. Learn more about the vaccines at vaccinatelacounty.com.

  • Need a ride? Uber and Lyft are providing free rides to and from vaccination sites. Don't have the apps? Call 833-540-0473 to book your ride.

  • There are several vaccine sites set up by Carbon Health that you can check: https://carbonhealth.com/

  • LA County: http://www.publichealth.lacounty.gov/media/Coronavirus/vaccine/index.htm

  • Orange County residents and workers: Register for a vaccination appointment at https://othena.com

CALL TO PRAYER: Lo, How a Rose E’er Blooming - El Dorado

Joys and Concerns: We believe that the best way to bear our burdens is to share them with one another. You are invited 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.

Scripture: Matthew 3:1-12, NRSV

In those days John the Baptist appeared in the wilderness of Judea, proclaiming, ‘Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near.’ This is the one of whom the prophet Isaiah spoke when he said,
‘The voice of one crying out in the wilderness:
“Prepare the way of the Lord,
make his paths straight.” ’
Now John wore clothing of camel’s hair with a leather belt around his waist, and his food was locusts and wild honey. Then the people of Jerusalem and all Judea were going out to him, and all the region along the Jordan, and they were baptized by him in the river Jordan, confessing their sins.

But when he saw many Pharisees and Sadducees coming for baptism, he said to them, ‘You brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the wrath to come? Bear fruit worthy of repentance. Do not presume to say to yourselves, “We have Abraham as our ancestor”; for I tell you, God is able from these stones to raise up children to Abraham. Even now the axe is lying at the root of the trees; every tree therefore that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire.

‘I baptize you with water for repentance, but one who is more powerful than I is coming after me; I am not worthy to carry his sandals. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire. His winnowing-fork is in his hand, and he will clear his threshing-floor and will gather his wheat into the granary; but the chaff he will burn with unquenchable fire.’

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

Sermon: People, Get Ready - Rev. 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.

CLOSING SONG: People, Get Ready - El Dorado

Benediction 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. 

LA FIRST UMC LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT - authored by Tom Grode, affirmed by LA First UMC’s Church Council on July 13, 2021

We Acknowledge the Tongva people as original caretakers of this land and their ancient village Yaangna, what we call Downtown Los Angeles.

We Acknowledge the many Native Americans who moved Downtown to Bunker Hill due to the Indian Relocation Act of 1956 as “the 'old' Bunker Hill was effectively scalped by urban renewal in the 1960’s.”   

We Acknowledge the work of Skid Row Housing Justice activists in the 1960's and 70's to keep the low income hotel housing in Skid Row from suffering the Urban Renewal fate of Bunker Hill.

We Acknowledge the Native Indigenous peoples of Los Angeles, their special relationship to Mother Earth, and their hospitality, inviting us into that special relationship.

We Acknowledge the patience, kindness, and compassion of Mother Earth.

We Acknowledge our beginnings as a church in 1853 when Methodist leader Adam Bland was sent to evangelize the "rowdy and incorrigible” Southland.

We Acknowledge our relationship with Biddy Mason, one of the Matriarchs of early Los Angeles, and a member of Fort Street Methodist Episcopal Church (the first name our church bore) before she began First African Methodist Episcopal (FAME) out of her home, one of the spiritual pillars in Los Angeles for many decades.

We Acknowledge Biddy Mason as the Patron Saint of Downtown Los Angeles, an enslaved woman who fought for the freedom of all who were enslaved. She utilized her training as a midwife to buy land and used her wealth to help others in need.

We Acknowledge the words of Jesus "to whom much is given much is required" as a blessing for us to live out: the legacy and reality of owning the largest piece of undeveloped property in South Park.

Welcome to Tongvaland, Pamela J. Peters

We Acknowledge the land of Downtown Los Angeles - more than a dozen unique and dynamic neighborhoods - as land the eyes of the world look towards for leadership and solutions to the challenges facing all humanity.

We Acknowledge the mission of the United Methodist Church as founded by John Wesley: to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world.

Donate