Mandy McDow

December 22, 2021

Announcement: Christmas Eve Candlelighting Service will be VIRTUAL only

Mandy McDow

December 22, 2021

Beloved,

I have been thinking and praying about this for several days. As the Omicron variant spreads rapidly through our city, we are all wondering how to respond. Yesterday, President Biden reminded us that this is not March 2020. We are more prepared and ready, thanks to the vaccine. However, it is still our responsibility to act with love and care. This week, Grand Park cancelled the live portion of their New Year’s Eve gathering, The Music Center cancelled the in-person portions of their celebration, and the NHL is pausing their season for a week.

While our church is much smaller than these gatherings, the weather provides an even greater concern. Beginning tomorrow, Los Angeles will be experiencing rainfall for the next several days. We cannot use the indoor/protective resources typically available to us, due to COVID. Without some kind of covering, the band members, congregants, and electrical equipment would be exposed to the rain.

My heart is heavy, but I am deeply concerned for person and property, given the concerns about COVID and the rainstorm. Gathering in person was our hope and intent, but it feels like we would be risking health, safety, and comfort to do so. I believe that the risks of meeting in person outweigh the rewards.

We are planning to produce a virtual service that will be a beautiful celebration of the birth of Jesus. Debbie and Oscar are distributing the Blessing Bags and refreshments today, so that people will still be able to receive these gifts. Stephen, Kobi, Diego, and Salvador are working to transition all of our content into video, so that we will still be able to sing together with El Dorado.

A dear colleague in New York City shared that their Christmas Eve service would be virtual this year because “this is what love looks like.” I pray for your health, safety, and grace as we navigate these challenging times. I am grateful that we are all here to discuss these matters, as your life is precious and valuable.

I look forward to sharing Christmas Eve with you, virtually, at 5:30 pm PST. We will be streaming on Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube.

God’s promise to us remains. God is with us, now and always.

Blessings to each of you,
Rev. Mandy

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Mandy McDow

January 3, 2021

Order of Worship for Epiphany Sunday, Jan. 3: You Shall See & Be Radiant!

Mandy McDow

January 3, 2021

Live Stream Worship:
Facebook: Los Angeles First United Methodist Church - Home
Instagram: Los Angeles First UMC (@lafirstumc)
YouTube: Los Angeles First United Methodist Church

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

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.

Announcements:

Stewardship Campaign: Our goal is to raise $20,000/month for payroll, so that we can continue to employ all the people who are working tirelessly to bring the Good News to all who need to hear it. My prayer is that we can raise enough money to cover our church’s payroll over the next three months. This allows the congregation to use any money we have on hand to directly support our ministries.

We have converted our parsonage into a co-housing community, which now has 6 residents living safely and affordably together. We have been able to support people who might not have been able to find sustainable housing in the current market, and we can ensure that they will stay housed during the pandemic. It would be an additional hope to raise $3,000/month to support the utilities and expenses of the co-housing community.

Jubilee Fund: This fund is designated to helping reduce the burden of debt in our community. As we make our way through the pandemic, the economic pressures are going to be challenging. If you feel led, you can now donate through Venmo!

VENMO: You can find us here: https://venmo.com/LAFirstUMC
PAYPAL: https://paypal.me/LAFirstUMC
SQUARE: https://checkout.square.site/pay/be673aef7fcb424e98387016d184e57d

DISCIPLE BIBLE STUDY, Monday, January 4: Week 26, “Justified” - The Book of Romans
Time: 5:30 - 7:00 PM PST
Join Zoom Meeting: https://zoom.us/j/598868178?pwd=U1B2YjZYWURDRXJXMStKajI3L1RWZz09
Monday, Jan 4 at 5:30 - Week 26, “Justified,” - The Book of Romans
Monday, Jan. 11 at 5:30 - Week 27, “Love,” - The Book of 1 Corinthians
Monday, Jan. 25 at 5:30 - Week 28, “Freedom,” - The Book of Galatians
Monday, Feb. 1 at 5:30, Week 29, “Training,” - The Books of 1 & 2 Timothy, Titus
Monday, Feb. 8 at 5:30, Week 30, “Sacrifice,” - The Book of Hebrews
Monday, Feb. 22 at 5:30, Week 31, “Holy,” - The Books of 1 & 2 Peter, Leviticus 11, 19; Isaiah 52-53, 55-56
Monday, March 1 at 5:30, Week 32, “Victory,” The Book of Revelation
Monday, March 8 at 5:30, Week 33, “Ministry,” The gifts of each disciple
Monday, March 15 at 5:30, Week 34, “Remember,” A Last Supper Together (Holy Week)

Upcoming Sermon Series:
January 3: Epiphany Sunday - This is a Day of New Beginnings - Matthew 2:1-12; Isaiah 60:1-6
January 10: Baptism of the Lord
January 17: Justice Roll Down Like a Mighty Stream, Andrew Janey preaching
January 24: Time After Time
January 31: Speaking as One With Authority
February 7: Power In Humility
February 14: Transfiguration Sunday
February 17: ASH WEDNESDAY

EL DORADO: VOL. 1 and SONGS FOR THE SEASON

BAPTISM OF RORY LeCROIX: TODAY at 1:00 via Zoom
Today we will be celebrating our new sibing in Christ, Rory LeCroix, daughter of Becky & Chad LeCroix. Church members and family members are invited to attend via Zoom!

Zoom Link: https://zoom.us/j/429889281
Password: 1853

COMMUNITY RESOURCES

Covid Testing

Updated for 1/2/21: The LA City Mobile Testing Group is bringing COVID-19 testing to communities throughout the City for those who are unable to drive to a testing site.
✅ No appointment necessary
✅Tests are free with or without insurance
Learn more:Coronavirus.LACity.org/MobileTesting

Earthquake Preparedness

ShakeAlertLA is being retired as of 12/31/20. We now recommend the @MyShakeApp Earthquake Early Warning mobile app. Get potentially life-saving seconds by knowing when to drop, cover, and hold with the statewide @MyShakeApp. Download today!

Relief Grant
GRANT ALERT: The State of California has a new grant opportunity available for small businesses! Visit careliefgrant.com to learn eligibility requirements and get your documents ready.
The application is now open and closes on Friday, January 8.

COVID-19 vaccines are here!

Health care workers and residents in long-term care will be the first to be vaccinated. As the supply increases, those with the highest risk and potential exposure to COVID-19 will receive vaccines. Learn more about the vaccine: covid19.ca.gov/vaccines

CALL TO PRAYER: It Came Upon A Midnight Clear - 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 2:1-12, NRSV

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: Epiphay You Shall See and Be Radiant! - Rev. Mandy McDow

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 PrayerOur Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name,
thy kingdom come, thy will be done,
on earth as it is in heaven.

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

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

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

MUSIC DURING COMMUNION: This Joy - 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.

Virtual Coffee Hour Begins now!
Immediately following worship on Zoom

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Mandy McDow

January 3, 2021

EPIPHANY SONG OF THE DAY: "Epiphany"

Mandy McDow

January 3, 2021

Following the prompts for each day of Advent, this playlist is created with hope, preparation, joy, and promise in mind. May the music help you cast down the mighty lift the lowly, and fill the hungry with good things.
Nov. 29: HOPE - “Soon & Very Soon” - El Dorado
Nov. 30: HONESTY - “People, Get Ready” - Eva Cassidy
Dec. 1: PRESENCE - “Once In Royal David’s City” - Sufjan Stevens
Dec. 2: KINDLES - “A Change Is Gonna Come” - Sam Cooke
Dec. 3: KNOWN - “Somebody to Love” - Queen
Dec. 4: AWESOME - “Lovely Day” - Bill Withers
Dec. 5: PERCEIVE - “Lo, How A Rose E’er Blooming” - Sufjan Stevens
Dec. 6: PREPARE - “Prepare Ye, the Way of the Lord” - Godspell
Dec. 7: TENDERLY - “Watch Over Us” - The Lone Bellow (El Dorado version)
Dec. 8: REMEMBER - “It Don’t Have to Change” - John Legend
Dec. 9: GLORY - “Jesus, What a Wonderful Child” - John Legend
Dec. 10: REVEALED - “Gold & Green/The First Noel” - Sugarland
Dec. 11: VOICE - “Betelehemu” - Morehouse College Glee Club
Dec. 12: MIGHT - “Suo Gan” - CANTUS
Dec. 13: NEWS - “Ain’t That Good News” - Sam Cooke
Dec. 14: CARRY - “The Weight” - Aretha Franklin (w/ Duane Allman on Slide Guitar)
Dec. 15: RELEASE - “River” - Joni Mitchell
Dec. 16: COMFORT - “Peace on Earth/Little Drummer Boy” - David Bowie/Bing Crosby
Dec. 17: PROVIDE - “In the Bleak Midwinter” - The Indigo Girls
Dec. 18: JOY - “Joy to the World” - Nat King Cole
Dec. 19: ACKNOWLEDGE - “Angels We Have Heard on High” - The Indigo Girls
Dec. 20: EXULT - “Ave Maria” - Franz Biebl peformed by Chanticleer
Dec. 21: GIVEN - “There’s Still My Joy” (The Longest Night) - The Indigo Girls
Dec. 22: BUILD - “O, Come, All Ye Faithful” - Nat King Cole
Dec. 23: MOVING - “Children, Go Where I Send Thee” - Natalie Merchant
Dec. 24: WORD - “O Magnum Mysterium” - Morten Lauridsen, performed by the Robert Shaw Chamber Singers
Dec. 25: FOREVER - “O Holy Night” - Tracy Chapman
Jan 3: EPIPHANY - “Epiphany” - Taylor Swift

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Mandy McDow

December 25, 2020

ADVENT (Christmas) SONG OF THE DAY: Day 25 -FOREVER, "O Holy Night"

Mandy McDow

December 25, 2020

Mandy McDow

December 24, 2020

Order of Worship for Christmas Eve: Soon & Very Soon - A Change is Gonna Come

Mandy McDow

December 24, 2020

Advent I_ Soon and Very Soon_ Keep Alert! (6).jpeg

THE LESSONS OF THE HISTORY OF OUR SALVATION

OPENING “Soon & Very Soon”

GREETING Rev. Mandy Sloan McDow

FIRST LESSON - Isaiah 9:2, 6-7 Stephen & Mia Folds

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 Come, All Ye Faithful” v. 1-3, 6

LIGHTING OF THE CHRIST CANDLE Stephen & Mia Folds

Voice One: We relight four candles representing the four weeks of Advent as we awaited the blessed hope of our Savior, Jesus Christ.

Voice Two: These candles symbolize gifts of Jesus Christ to us: hope, peace, joy and love.

Voice Three: Today we light the Christ Candle: the candle of hope made real in the Son of God come to earth at Christmas.

ALL: O come, O come, Emmanuel. Let us rejoice! God is with us!

*HYMN “O Come, O Come Emmanuel” v.5

SECOND LESSON: Isaiah 11:1-4 Andrew Janey

The Peaceful Kingdom

A shoot shall come out from the stock of Jesse, and a branch shall grow out of his roots.

2 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.

3 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;

4 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 “Lo, How A Rose E’er Blooming”

THIRD LESSON: Luke 1:26-33, 38 Debbie Bowlus

The Birth of Jesus Foretold

26 In the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent by God to a town in Galilee called Nazareth, 27 to a virgin engaged to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. The virgin’s name was Mary. 28 And he came to her and said, ‘Greetings, favored one! The Lord is with you.’29 But she was much perplexed by his words and pondered what sort of greeting this might be. 30The angel said to her, ‘Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. 31 And now, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you will name him Jesus. 32He 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. 33 He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of his kingdom there will be no end.’ 38 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 “In the Bleak Midwinter” Laurie Ray & Mandy McDow, vocals & guitar; Wes Goldsberry, violin

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”

*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 Savannah Southern-Smith

The Birth of Jesus

2In those days a decree went out from Emperor Augustus that all the world should be registered. 2 This was the first registration and was taken while Quirinius was governor of Syria. 3All went to their own towns to be registered. 4 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. 5He went to be registered with Mary, to whom he was engaged and who was expecting a child.6 While they were there, the time came for her to deliver her child. 7 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 “It Came Upon A Midnight Clear”

FIFTH LESSON: Luke 2:8-20 Mark Schiff

The Shepherds and the Angels

8 In that region there were shepherds living in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. 9 Then an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified.10 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: 11 to you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is the Messiah, the Lord. 12 This will be a sign for you: you will find a child wrapped in bands of cloth and lying in a manger.’ 13 And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host, praising God and saying,

14 ‘Glory to God in the highest heaven,

and on earth peace among those whom he favors!’

15 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.’ 16So they went with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the child lying in the manger.17 When they saw this, they made known what had been told them about this child; 18 and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds told them. 19 But Mary treasured all these words and pondered them in her heart. 20 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”

GOSPEL LESSON John 1:1-14

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 A Change is Gonna Come 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”

CEREMONY OF LIGHTS

CAROL “Silent Night, Holy Night”

BENEDICTION Rev. Mandy McDow

* * *

Be sure to join us for Sunday worship on FB/YouTube/Periscope Live

January 3, 2020 at 10:30 a.m.

Los Angeles First United Methodist Church

1020 S. Flower Street, Los Angeles, CA 90015

www.LAFirstUMC.org

Creative • Courageous • Compassionate

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Mandy McDow

December 24, 2020

ADVENT SONG OF THE DAY: Day 24 - WORD, "O Magnum Mysterium"

Mandy McDow

December 24, 2020

Mandy McDow

December 23, 2020

ADVENT SONG OF THE DAY: Day 23 - MOVING, "Children, Go Where I Send Thee"

Mandy McDow

December 23, 2020

Mandy McDow

December 22, 2020

ADVENT SONG OF THE DAY: Day 22 - BUILD, "O Come, All Ye Faithful"

Mandy McDow

December 22, 2020

Mandy McDow

December 21, 2020

ADVENT SONG OF THE DAY: Day 21 The Longest Night - GIVEN, "There's Still My Joy"

Mandy McDow

December 21, 2020

Following the prompts for each day of Advent, this playlist is created with hope, preparation, joy, and promise in mind. May the music help you cast down the mighty lift the lowly, and fill the hungry with good things.
Nov. 29: HOPE - “Soon & Very Soon” - El Dorado
Nov. 30: HONESTY - “People, Get Ready” - Eva Cassidy
Dec. 1: PRESENCE - “Once In Royal David’s City” - Sufjan Stevens
Dec. 2: KINDLES - “A Change Is Gonna Come” - Sam Cooke
Dec. 3: KNOWN - “Somebody to Love” - Queen
Dec. 4: AWESOME - “Lovely Day” - Bill Withers
Dec. 5: PERCEIVE - “Lo, How A Rose E’er Blooming” - Sufjan Stevens
Dec. 6: PREPARE - “Prepare Ye, the Way of the Lord” - Godspell
Dec. 7: TENDERLY - “Watch Over Us” - The Lone Bellow (El Dorado version)
Dec. 8: REMEMBER - “It Don’t Have to Change” - John Legend
Dec. 9: GLORY - “Jesus, What a Wonderful Child” - John Legend
Dec. 10: REVEALED - “Gold & Green/The First Noel” - Sugarland
Dec. 11: VOICE - “Betelehemu” - Morehouse College Glee Club
Dec. 12: MIGHT - “Suo Gan” - CANTUS
Dec. 13: NEWS - “Ain’t That Good News” - Sam Cooke
Dec. 14: CARRY - “The Weight” - Aretha Franklin (w/ Duane Allman on Slide Guitar)
Dec. 15: RELEASE - “River” - Joni Mitchell
Dec. 16: COMFORT - “Peace on Earth/Little Drummer Boy” - David Bowie/Bing Crosby
Dec. 17: PROVIDE - “In the Bleak Midwinter” - The Indigo Girls
Dec. 18: JOY - “Joy to the World” - Nat King Cole
Dec. 19: ACKNOWLEDGE - “Angels We Have Heard on High” - The Indigo Girls
Dec. 20: EXULT - “Ave Maria” - Franz Biebl peformed by Chanticleer
Dec. 21: GIVEN - “There’s Still My Joy” (The Longest Night) - The Indigo Girls
Dec. 22: BUILD
Dec. 23: MOVING
Dec. 24: WORD
Dec. 25: FOREVER
Jan 3: EPIPHANY

Mandy McDow

December 20, 2020

Order of Worship for Sunday, December 20: Advent IV - Soon & Very Soon - Cast Down the Mighty, Lift the Lowly, Fill the Hungry, Send the Rich Away Empty

Mandy McDow

December 20, 2020

Advent IV.Soon and Very Soon.Cast Down the Mighty.jpeg

Live Stream Worship:
Facebook: Los Angeles First United Methodist Church - Home
Instagram: Los Angeles First UMC (@lafirstumc)
YouTube: Los Angeles First United Methodist Church

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

Come, Thou Long Expected Jesus - Savannah Southern-Smith & Mandy McDow, vocals; Stephen Folds, piano

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.

Announcements:

VENMO: You can find us here: https://venmo.com/LAFirstUMC
PAYPAL: https://paypal.me/LAFirstUMC
SQUARE: https://checkout.square.site/pay/be673aef7fcb424e98387016d184e57d

DISCIPLE BIBLE STUDY, Monday, December 21: Week 25 - The Book of Acts
Time: 5:30 - 7:00 PM PST
Join Zoom Meeting: https://zoom.us/j/598868178?pwd=U1B2YjZYWURDRXJXMStKajI3L1RWZz09
Monday, Dec. 21 at 5:30 - Week 25, “Conversion” - The Book of Acts
Monday, Jan 4 at 5:30 - Week 26, “Justified,” - The Book of Romans
Monday, Jan. 11 at 5:30 - Week 27, “Love,” - The Book of 1 Corinthians
Monday, Jan. 25 at 5:30 - Week 28, “Freedom,” - The Book of Galatians
Monday, Feb. 1 at 5:30, Week 29, “Training,” - The Books of 1 & 2 Timothy, Titus
Monday, Feb. 8 at 5:30, Week 30, “Sacrifice,” - The Book of Hebrews
Monday, Feb. 22 at 5:30, Week 31, “Holy,” - The Books of 1 & 2 Peter, Leviticus 11, 19; Isaiah 52-53, 55-56
Monday, March 1 at 5:30, Week 32, “Victory,” The Book of Revelation
Monday, March 8 at 5:30, Week 33, “Ministry,” The gifts of each disciple
Monday, March 15 at 5:30, Week 34, “Remember,” A Last Supper Together (Holy Week)

Upcoming Sermon Series:
December 20: Advent IV: Soon and Very Soon - Cast Down the Mighty, Lift the Lowly, Fill the Hungry, Send the Rich Away Empty - Luke 1:46-55
December 24: Christmas Eve VIrtual Service at 7:30 PM: A Change Is Gonna Come - Luke 2:1-20
December 27: Sabbath Sunday
January 3: Epiphany Sunday - This is a Day of New Beginnings - Matthew 2:1-12; Isaiah 60:1-6

EL DORADO: VOL. 1 and SONGS FOR THE SEASON

ADVENT SONG OF THE DAY Available on Spotify, and on the Pastor’s Blog each day!

Following the prompts for each day of Advent, this playlist is created with hope, preparation, joy, and promise in mind. May the music help you cast down the mighty lift the lowly, and fill the hungry with good things.
Nov. 29: HOPE - “Soon & Very Soon” - El Dorado
Nov. 30: HONESTY - “People, Get Ready” - Eva Cassidy
Dec. 1: PRESENCE - “Once In Royal David’s City” - Sufjan Stevens
Dec. 2: KINDLES - “A Change Is Gonna Come” - Sam Cooke
Dec. 3: KNOWN - “Somebody to Love” - Queen
Dec. 4: AWESOME - “Lovely Day” - Bill Withers
Dec. 5: PERCEIVE - “Lo, How A Rose E’er Blooming” - Sufjan Stevens
Dec. 6: PREPARE - “Prepare Ye, the Way of the Lord” - Godspell
Dec. 7: TENDERLY - “Watch Over Us” - The Lone Bellow (El Dorado version)
Dec. 8: REMEMBER - “It Don’t Have to Change” - John Legend
Dec. 9: GLORY - “Jesus, What a Wonderful Child” - John Legend
Dec. 10: REVEALED - “Gold & Green/The First Noel” - Sugarland
Dec. 11: VOICE - “Betelehemu” - Morehouse College Glee Club
Dec. 12: MIGHT - “Suo Gan” - CANTUS
Dec. 13: NEWS - “Ain’t That Good News” - Sam Cooke
Dec. 14: CARRY - “The Weight” - Aretha Franklin (w/ Duane Allman on Slide Guitar)
Dec. 15: RELEASE - “River” - Joni Mitchell
Dec. 16: COMFORT - “Peace on Earth/Little Drummer Boy” - David Bowie/Bing Crosby
Dec. 17: PROVIDE - “In the Bleak Midwinter” - The Indigo Girls
Dec. 18: JOY - “Joy to the World” - Nat King Cole
Dec. 19: ACKNOWLEDGE - “Angels We Have Heard on High” - The Indigo Girls
Dec. 20: EXULT - “Ave Maria” - Franz Biebl peformed by Chanticleer
Dec. 21: GIVEN
Dec. 22: BUILD
Dec. 23: MOVING
Dec. 24: WORD
Dec. 25: FOREVER
Jan 3: EPIPHANY

THANK YOU, UMW!
It was a joy to deliver gifts to our congregation this week, thanks to the generosity of the United Methodist Women and the hard work of Debbie Bowlus!

Community Resources
Justice for Dr. Aysha Khoury
Our congregation is blessed to know Dr. Aysha Khoury. Dr. Khoury is a brilliant doctor and professor. She was suspended unjustly for speaking honestly about racial bias in medicine during a lecture she was asked to prepare on that very topic. (See thread here).
This petition, to be submitted to the Board of Directors at the Kaiser Permanente Bernard J. Tyson School of Medicine. The petition calls for:
1) Immediate Full Reinstatement
2) Public Apology
3) Actionable Commitment to Antiracism
We invite you to consider signing, as a show of support to our own Dr. Khoury.

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfA8RLpg5As4VQXmb-oZusHCJLjjbHTpXT2634MqyCrnDGbjw/viewform?fbclid=IwAR2Oz-r631T2V1s35bXb5LS6Hakcs75gwkqHXeRFDY-FpGyhGFicxPZNhzU

Here are two new jobs available in our area from CORE (Community Organized Relief Effort):
1. Mobile Program Associate - CORE (Community Organized Relief Effort)
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA /FIELD OPERATIONS – MOBILE PROGRAM ASSOCIATE /FULL TIME https://jobs.lever.co/coreresponse/b9c06fa2-e33d-4880-8550-0b6622c26e0c
2. Program Associate - CORE (Community Organized Relief Effort)
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA /FIELD OPERATIONS – PROGRAM ASSOCIATE /FULL TIME https://jobs.lever.co/coreresponse/0bcf124b-47d5-495b-90cc-439a5d6c270d

California’s Regional Stay At Home Order from the office of the Governor

All gatherings with members of other households are prohibited in the Region except as expressly permitted herein.
All individuals living in the Region shall stay home or at their place of residence except as necessary to conduct activities associated with the operation, maintenance, or usage of critical infrastructure, as required by law, or as specifically permitted in this order.

Los Angeles’ Safer At Home Order from the office of the Mayor

Subject only to the exceptions outlined in this Order, all persons living within the City of Los Angeles are hereby ordered to remain in their homes. Residents of the City of Los Angeles who are experiencing homelessness are exempt from this requirement. The City is working, along with partner government agencies and non-governmental organizations, to make more emergency shelters available for the unhoused residents of our City. City of Los Angeles officials and contracted partners responsible for homelessness outreach shall make every reasonable effort to persuade such residents to accept, if offered, temporary housing or shelter, as the Health Officer of the County of Los Angeles recommends that sheltering individuals will assist in reducing the spread of the virus and will protect the individual from potential exposure by allowing the individual access to sanitation tools. People at high risk of severe illness from COVID-19 and people who are sick are urged to stay in their residence to the extent possible except as necessary to seek medical care.

Free Internet for LA Students:
In partnership w/ @TMobile, @MayorOfLA and @MayorsFundLA are working to close the homework gap by extending free internet connectivity to 18,000, K-12 LA students!
Learn more about the Angeleno Connectivity Trust (ACT) Program by dialing 3-1-1 or visit lamayor.org/Connectivity.

COVID-19 Testing:
The LA City Mobile Testing Group is bringing COVID-19 testing to communities throughout the City for those who are unable to drive to a testing site.
✅ No appointment necessary
✅ Tests are free with or without insurance
Learn more:Coronavirus.LACity.org/MobileTesting

LA Public Library: Sign Up for the Winter Reading Challenge
Celebrate the season by signing up for the Winter Reading Challenge. Beginning December 7, read and complete a series of fun activities and you could win a prize from The Library Store.

LA Public Library: Bring a Hands-On Art Experience Home
The Los Angeles Public Library is teaming up with The Broad Museum to bring families a hands-on art experience at home! Only a limited number of The Broad To Go free art kits are available, so sign up now to learn more and take part in the program.

LA Public Library: Find Some Holiday Cheer at the LibraryWith cooking demonstrations, crafting classes and expert storytelling, the library has virtual activities for everyone to feel festive this month. We even have a meditation class to help you stay sane and manage your holiday stress.

Get Help in One of Our Virtual Student Zones
Don't fall behind on your homework as a result of your hectic schedule. Students in grades K-12 can now sign up for a free, 25-minute session with a trained, L.A.-based Homework Helper who can help you find library resources to help with your school assignments.

Aid For Food Service Workers:
SERVE is a new partnership between @MayorOfLA and @MayorsFundLA to provide cash aid to food service workers who reside in the City of Los Angeles. SERVE is a one-time stipend of $800 to help food service workers during this critical period.
Learn more: corona-virus.la/SERVE

Aid for Childcare Workers:
Due to popular demand, @LAEWDD @LACity @WeAreDACE has added orientations to assist childcare workers at risk of job loss, been laid off, furloughed, or had hours reduced due to #COVIDー19.
Sign up➡️bit.ly/36UQPt4
📅Sessions: 10AM 12/8 & 12/15; 5PM 12/17

Food Assistance:
Help starts with 211 LA ! If you or someone you know is in need of food assistance , dial 2-1-1 or visit 211la.org. 211 LA can connect you to all types of health, social, and human services in LA County!
Free - 24 hrs, 7 days a week - Multilingual - Confidential.

Disability Resources:
LA CITY and @LACDOD is committed to ensuring accessibility to services, city programs, and facilities to our disabled residents.
LA supports our disabled residents on this Day of People with Disabilities.
Learn more: disability.lacity.org/services

Food, Testing, and Support Services Information:
211 LA is here to help! Dial 2-1-1 or visit 211LA.org and get connected to food resources, COVID-19 testing information, and all types of support services available to you in @CountyofLA

Covered California Open Enrollment
The enrollment period for Covered California, and for the individual market outside the exchange, started Nov. 1 and runs through Jan. 31. To apply for new health insurance or update your plan, visit coveredca.com.

Vintage United Methodist Recipes: Stained Glass Marshmallow Cookies 🍪
https://www.umc.org/en/content/stained-glass-marshmallow-cookies

CALL TO PRAYER:
Advent Wreath Lighting: O Come, O Come Emmanuel - Sienna Shepherd & Lauren Korczakowski

2 Samuel 7:1-16
Reader One: We live on the brink every day. We stand on the threshold between this world

and the next one. We live and move between the ordinary and divine, between the mundane and the mystery. Too often, we forget to look up and see the angels in our living room. We forget that the love we give and live is a sign of eternity, God with us, right now. We forget that company is coming.

Reader Two: Luke tells us that God’s favor came to a girl, an ordinary girl. It might have been you or your daughter; it might have been the girl down the street or your grandchild. But the messenger of God came and greeted her and said, “The Lord is with you.” What a gift and a promise: Emmanuel, God is with us.

Reader One: We light these candles with peace in our hearts for the promise of proximity, the nearness of God. Even when we forget to listen, to lean into that presence, God is as close as our own breath. This, in a confused and confusing world, is a peace that passes all understanding. It is the peace that knows that company is coming.

Reader Two: O Come, O Come Emmanuel.

“O Come, O Come, Emmanuel”, v. 5

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 1:26-38, 46-55 NRSV: The Annunciation & Mary’s Magnificat

Mary’s Magnificat, Ben Wildflower - https://benwildflower.com/collections/prints-1/products/magnificat-print — **Mary’s Magnificat, Ben Wildflower -** https://benwildflower.com/collections/prints-1/products/magnificat-print

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.”
Mary said to the angel, “How can this be, since I am a virgin?”
The angel said to her, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you; therefore the child to be born will be holy; he will be called Son of God. And now, your relative Elizabeth in her old age has also conceived a son; and this is the sixth month for her who was said to be barren. For nothing will be impossible with God.” 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.

And Mary said, “My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has looked with favor 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 forever.”

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

Sermon: ADVENT IV: SOON AND VERY SOON: Cast Down the Mighty! - Rev. Mandy McDow

HOLY COMMUNION

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

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

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

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

MUSIC DURING COMMUNION: 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.

Virtual Coffee Hour Begins now!
Immediately following worship on Zoom

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