Order of Worship for Sunday, October 25: THE WILDERNESS | What Do You Stand For? Phil Valdes, Preaching

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

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. 

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

Guidelines for Church Re-Launch of In-Person Worship Services

Bishop Hagiya's Special Message in Response to Racism

DISCIPLE BIBLE STUDY, Monday, October 26: Week 19
Time: 5:30 - 7:00 PM PST
Join Zoom Meeting: https://zoom.us/j/598868178?pwd=U1B2YjZYWURDRXJXMStKajI3L1RWZz09

CHURCH DEVELOPMENT SESSION WITH FORGE LAND DEVELOPMENT:
Monday, October 26 at 1:00 PM - E-mail “office @ LAFirstUMC.org” for the Zoom link

CHARGE CONFERENCE DATE: Thursday, November 5 at 7:00 PM via Zoom

Zoom Fellowship Coffee Hour: Immediately following worship today.

Community Events and Resources: 

Register to Vote
The deadline to register to vote in the upcoming November 3rd Election was Monday, October 19th. To register online, visit registertovote.ca.gov. To request a paper application, call (800) 345-VOTE(8683).

Check your voter registration with the Secretary of State.

Find out your local elected officals through the League of Women Voters.

Vote by Mail Drop Boxes
StreetsLA is installing 77 Vote by Mail Drop Boxes outside City public libraries and City recreation facilities. In downtown, boxes will be installed at the Little Tokyo Branch Library (203 S Los Angeles St) and Los Angeles Central Library (630 W 5th St). To learn more, click here.

Lakers, AEG to make Staples Center a voting center for L.A.
Staples Center will serve as a polling place where Los Angeles voters can cast ballots for the 2020 presidential election from Oct. 30 through Election Day, Nov. 3. Click Here.

California Secretary of State Voting Guide - English, Spanish, Korean, Tagalog

LA Voice Proposition Endorsements for Racial Justice

#YesonProp15 : www.yes15.org
#NoOnProp20 : https://noprop20.vote/
#YesOnMeasureJ : https://yesonj.reimagine.la

CALL TO PRAYER: Reckless Love - 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.

HEBREW BIBLE READING: Micah 6:6-8 - What God Requires

 ‘With what shall I come before the Lord,
   and bow myself before God on high?
Shall I come before him with burnt-offerings,
   with calves a year old? 
Will the Lord be pleased with thousands of rams,
   with tens of thousands of rivers of oil?
Shall I give my firstborn for my transgression,
   the fruit of my body for the sin of my soul?’ 
He has told you, O mortal, what is good;
   and what does the Lord require of you
but to do justice, and to love kindness,
   and to walk humbly with your God? 

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

Gospel Reading: Matthew 22:34-46, NRSV

When the Pharisees heard that he had silenced the Sadducees, they gathered together, and one of them, a lawyer, asked him a question to test him. “Teacher, which commandment in the law is the greatest?” He said to him, “’You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind.’ This is the greatest and first commandment. And a second is like it: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets.”

Now while the Pharisees were gathered together, Jesus asked them this question: “What do you think of the Messiah? Whose son is he?” They said to him, “The son of David.” He said to them, “How is it then that David by the Spirit calls him Lord, saying, ‘The Lord said to my Lord, “Sit at my right hand, until I put your enemies under your feet”’? If David thus calls him Lord, how can he be his son?” No one was able to give him an answer, nor from that day did anyone dare to ask him any more questions.

Sermon: THE WILDERNESS | What Do You Stand For? Phil Valdes, 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 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: Ring the Bells - 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

Donate

Order of Worship for Sunday, October 18: LAITY SUNDAY

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

Color Esperanza - 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

Guidelines for Church Re-Launch of In-Person Worship Services

Bishop Hagiya's Special Message in Response to Racism

DISCIPLE BIBLE STUDY, Monday, October 12: Week 18
Time: 5:30 - 7:00 PM PST
Join Zoom Meeting: https://zoom.us/j/598868178?pwd=U1B2YjZYWURDRXJXMStKajI3L1RWZz09

TODAY: LAITY SUNDAY - Tom Grode, Lay Leader - Preaching

MUSEUM OF SOCIAL JUSTICE 9th ANNUAL TARDEADA: TODAY AT 3:00 PM

We invite you to our annual Tardeada to celebrate the opening of
Thai El Monte Garment Workers: The Return of Slavery and Trafficking in the Modern Era

honoring 

Melina Abdullah, professor of Pan-African Studies at California State University, Los Angeles and co-founder of Black Lives Matter Los Angeles

Chancee Martorell, executive director of the Thai Community Development Center

Joy Prim, United Methodist Church deaconess and missionary with the General Board of Global Ministries

CHURCH DEVELOPMENT SESSION WITH TELACU:
Monday, October 19 at 1:00 PM - E-mail “office @ LAFirstUMC.org” for the Zoom link

CHURCH DEVELOPMENT SESSION WITH FORGE LAND DEVELOPMENT:
Monday, October 26 at 1:00 PM - E-mail “office @ LAFirstUMC.org” for the Zoom link

CHURCH COUNCIL MEETING: Tuesday, October 13, 4:30-6:30 PM via Zoom

CHARGE CONFERENCE DATE: Thursday, November 5 at 7:00 PM via Zoom

Zoom Fellowship Coffee Hour: Immediately following worship today.

Community Events and Resources: 

Register to Vote
The deadline to register to vote in the upcoming November 3rd Election is Monday, October 19th. To register online, visit registertovote.ca.gov. To request a paper application, call (800) 345-VOTE(8683).

Check your voter registration with the Secretary of State.

Find out your local elected officals through the League of Women Voters.

Vote by Mail Drop Boxes
StreetsLA is installing 77 Vote by Mail Drop Boxes outside City public libraries and City recreation facilities. In downtown, boxes will be installed at the Little Tokyo Branch Library (203 S Los Angeles St) and Los Angeles Central Library (630 W 5th St). To learn more, click here.

Lakers, AEG to make Staples Center a voting center for L.A.
Staples Center will serve as a polling place where Los Angeles voters can cast ballots for the 2020 presidential election from Oct. 30 through Election Day, Nov. 3. Click Here.

CALL TO PRAYER: Holy Spirit - 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.  

HEBREW BIBLE READING: Exodus 33:12-23, NRSV

Moses said to the Lord, “See, you have said to me, ‘Bring up this people’; but you have not let me know whom you will send with me. Yet you have said, ‘I know you by name, and you have also found favor in my sight.’ Now if I have found favor in your sight, show me your ways, so that I may know you and find favor in your sight. Consider too that this nation is your people.” 

He said, “My presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.” 

And he said to him, “If your presence will not go, do not carry us up from here. For how shall it be known that I have found favor in your sight, I and your people, unless you go with us? In this way, we shall be distinct, I and your people, from every people on the face of the earth.”

The Lord said to Moses, “I will do the very thing that you have asked; for you have found favor in my sight, and I know you by name.” 

Moses said, “Show me your glory, I pray.” 

And he said, “I will make all my goodness pass before you, and will proclaim before you the name, ‘The Lord’; and I will be gracious to whom I will be gracious, and will show mercy on whom I will show mercy. But,” he said, “you cannot see my face; for no one shall see me and live.” 

And the Lord continued, “See, there is a place by me where you shall stand on the rock; and while my glory passes by I will put you in a cleft of the rock, and I will cover you with my hand until I have passed by; then I will take away my hand, and you shall see my back; but my face shall not be seen.”

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

Sermon: THE WILDERNESS | Tom Grode, Lay Leader

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: One Song (Holy Ghost to Nations) - El Dorado

Benediction From the Women of the UMW
The Lord Bless you and keep you
May the Lord make his face to shine upon you
And be gracious unto you.
The Lord lift up his countenance upon you
And give you peace. Amen. 

Virtual Coffee Hour Begins now! Immediately following worship on Zoom

Donate

Order of Worship for Sunday, October 4: THE WILDERNESS | FROM CHAOS TO ORDER

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

Higher Ground - 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

Guidelines for Church Re-Launch of In-Person Worship Services

Bishop Hagiya's Special Message in Response to Racism

DISCIPLE BIBLE STUDY, Monday, October 5: Week 16
Time: 5:30 - 7:00 PM PST
Join Zoom Meeting: https://zoom.us/j/598868178?pwd=U1B2YjZYWURDRXJXMStKajI3L1RWZz09

CHURCH DEVELOPMENT SESSION WITH REPUBLIC-METROPOLITAN:
Monday, October 5 at 1:00 PM - E-mail “office @ LAFirstUMC.org” for the Zoom link

CHURCH COUNCIL MEETING: Tuesday, October 5, 4:30-6:30 PM via Zoom

CHARGE CONFERENCE DATE: Thursday, November 5 at 7:00 PM via Zoom

THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF BIDDY MASON: A VIRTUAL ARTS FESTIVAL - Saturday, October 10 at 2: 00 PM via Zoom

Zoom Fellowship Coffee Hour: Immediately following worship today.

Community Events and Resources: 

Register to Vote
The deadline to register to vote in the upcoming November 3rd Election is Monday, October 19th. To register online, visit registertovote.ca.gov. To request a paper application, call (800) 345-VOTE(8683).

Check your voter registration with the Secretary of State.

Find out your local elected officals through the League of Women Voters.

Vote by Mail Drop Boxes
StreetsLA is installing 77 Vote by Mail Drop Boxes outside City public libraries and City recreation facilities. In downtown, boxes will be installed at the Little Tokyo Branch Library (203 S Los Angeles St) and Los Angeles Central Library (630 W 5th St). To learn more, click here.

Lakers, AEG to make Staples Center a voting center for L.A.
Staples Center will serve as a polling place where Los Angeles voters can cast ballots for the 2020 presidential election from Oct. 30 through Election Day, Nov. 3. Click Here.

CALL TO PRAYER: Sweet, Sweet Spirit - 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.  

HEBREW BIBLE READING: Exodus 20:1-20, NRSV

Then God spoke all these words: 

I am the Lord your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of slavery; you shall have no other gods before me. 

You shall not make for yourself an idol, whether in the form of anything that is in heaven above, or that is on the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth. You shall not bow down to them or worship them; for I the Lord your God am a jealous God, punishing children for the iniquity of parents, to the third and the fourth generation of those who reject me, but showing steadfast love to the thousandth generation of those who love me and keep my commandments. 

You shall not make wrongful use of the name of the Lord your God, for the Lord will not acquit anyone who misuses his name.

Remember the sabbath day, and keep it holy. Six days you shall labor and do all your work. But the seventh day is a sabbath to the Lord your God; you shall not do any work—you, your son or your daughter, your male or female slave, your livestock, or the alien resident in your towns. For in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that is in them, but rested the seventh day; therefore the Lord blessed the sabbath day and consecrated it.

Honor your father and your mother, so that your days may be long in the land that the Lord your God is giving you. 
You shall not murder. 
You shall not commit adultery. 
You shall not steal. 
You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor. 
You shall not covet your neighbor’s house; you shall not covet your neighbor’s wife, or male or female slave, or ox, or donkey, or anything that belongs to your neighbor.

When all the people witnessed the thunder and lightning, the sound of the trumpet, and the mountain smoking, they were afraid and trembled and stood at a distance, and said to Moses, “You speak to us, and we will listen; but do not let God speak to us, or we will die.” Moses said to the people, “Do not be afraid; for God has come only to test you and to put the fear of him upon you so that you do not sin.”

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

Sermon: THE WILDERNESS | FROM CHAOS TO ORDER - 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: Surrender - El Dorado, original by Stephen Folds

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

DONATE HERE TO SUPPORT OUR MISSION

Order of Worship for Sunday, September 27: The Spiritual Discipline of Faithfulness - Olu Banjo, preaching

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

You Are - Olusheyi Banjo

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

Guidelines for Church Re-Launch of In-Person Worship Services

Bishop Hagiya's Special Message in Response to Racism

DISCIPLE BIBLE STUDY, Monday, September 28: Week 15
Time: 5:30 - 7:00 PM PST
Join Zoom Meeting: https://zoom.us/j/598868178?pwd=U1B2YjZYWURDRXJXMStKajI3L1RWZz09

Zoom Fellowship Coffee Hour: Immediately following worship today.

Community Events and Resources: 

Register to Vote
The deadline to register to vote in the upcoming November 3rd Election is Monday, October 19th. To register online, visit registertovote.ca.gov. To request a paper application, call (800) 345-VOTE(8683).

Check your voter registration with the Secretary of State.

Find out your local elected officals through the League of Women Voters.

Vote by Mail Drop Boxes
StreetsLA is installing 77 Vote by Mail Drop Boxes outside City public libraries and City recreation facilities. In downtown, boxes will be installed at the Little Tokyo Branch Library (203 S Los Angeles St) and Los Angeles Central Library (630 W 5th St). To learn more, click here.

Lakers, AEG to make Staples Center a voting center for L.A.
Staples Center will serve as a polling place where Los Angeles voters can cast ballots for the 2020 presidential election from Oct. 30 through Election Day, Nov. 3. Click Here.

CALL TO PRAYER: O Happy Day/My Sweet Lord - 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.  

Psalm 1: 1-6, NIV

Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked
or stand in the way that sinners take
    or sit in the company of mockers,
2 but whose delight is in the law of the Lord,
    and who meditates on his law day and night.
3 That person is like a tree planted by streams of water,
    which yields its fruit in season
and whose leaf does not wither—
    whatever they do prospers.

4 Not so the wicked!
    They are like chaff
    that the wind blows away.
5 Therefore the wicked will not stand in the judgment,
    nor sinners in the assembly of the righteous.

6 For the Lord watches over the way of the righteous,
    but the way of the wicked leads to destruction.

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

Sermon: Blessed Is the One - Olusheyi Banjo

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: All That - Olusheyi Banjo

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

Donate Here To Support Our Mission

Order of Worship for Sunday, September 20: The Spiritual Discipline of True Justice

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

For What It's Worth - 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

Guidelines for Church Re-Launch of In-Person Worship Services

Bishop Hagiya's Special Message in Response to Racism

VISIONING SESSION II: Monday, September 21 at 1:00 PM via Zoom with Rev. Jennifer Gutierrez

DISCIPLE BIBLE STUDY, Monday, September 21: Week 14
Time: 5:30 - 7:00 PM PST
Join Zoom Meeting: https://zoom.us/j/598868178?pwd=U1B2YjZYWURDRXJXMStKajI3L1RWZz09

Zoom Fellowship Coffee Hour: Immediately following worship today.

4 Week Zoom Book Club, “Finding Peace in An Anxious World”
Wednesday at 5:00 PM, Sept. 23

For those who are interested but unable to attend, or those who just love additional information, the UMW has created a useful resource page to accompany the book on their national website, and there you can find videos and reading guides for further exploration:

https://www.unitedmethodistwomen.org/finding-peace-in-an-anxious-world

Community Events and Resources: 

9/26: A discussion on city living in the wake of the pandemic
Months into the coronavirus pandemic, the extent of its impact on downtown Los Angeles is fluid – it seems every day presents new challenges and new reasons to remain hopeful. On Saturday, September 26, the South Park Bid is hosting a discussion on city living in the wake of the pandemic. Join them for a conversation about what's next for downtown's residents, workers, physical design, retail, transportation, and more. RSVP here.

Register to Vote
The deadline to register to vote in the upcoming November 3rd Election is Monday, October 19th. To register online, visit registertovote.ca.gov. To request a paper application, call (800) 345-VOTE(8683).

Check your voter registration with the Secretary of State.

Find out your local elected officals through the League of Women Voters.

Vote by Mail Drop Boxes
StreetsLA is installing 77 Vote by Mail Drop Boxes outside City public libraries and City recreation facilities. In downtown, boxes will be installed at the Little Tokyo Branch Library (203 S Los Angeles St) and Los Angeles Central Library (630 W 5th St). To learn more, click here.

Lakers, AEG to make Staples Center a voting center for L.A.
Staples Center will serve as a polling place where Los Angeles voters can cast ballots for the 2020 presidential election from Oct. 30 through Election Day, Nov. 3. Click Here.

This Sunday Starts Deaf Awareness Week
Deaf Awareness Week is Sept. 20-26, This blog post includes links to helpful videos, including one on Deaf culture and another on the Lord's Prayer in American Sign Language.Read story

•  You can learn The Lord's Prayer in ASL here: Lord's Prayer in sign language

• Here is a 5 minute Deaf culture video to build your awareness.

• And here is a glossary of videos of ASL church-related signs 

CALL TO PRAYER: All Who Are Thirsty - El Dorado

Justice Ruth Bader Ginsberg died on Friday, at the time Shabbat services were beginning on the first day of the Jewish New Year. According to Jewish tradition, a person who dies on Rosh Hashanah, is a tzaddik, a person of great righteousness. May her memory be a revolution.

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.  

GOSPEL READING: Matthew 20:1-16, NRSV - The Laborers in the Vineyard

‘For the kingdom of heaven is like a landowner who went out early in the morning to hire laborers for his vineyard. After agreeing with the laborers for the usual daily wage, he sent them into his vineyard. When he went out about nine o’clock, he saw others standing idle in the market-place; and he said to them, “You also go into the vineyard, and I will pay you whatever is right.”

So they went. When he went out again about noon and about three o’clock, he did the same. And about five o’clock he went out and found others standing around; and he said to them, “Why are you standing here idle all day?” They said to him, “Because no one has hired us.” He said to them, “You also go into the vineyard.” 

When evening came, the owner of the vineyard said to his manager, “Call the labourers and give them their pay, beginning with the last and then going to the first.” When those hired about five o’clock came, each of them received the usual daily wage. 

Now when the first came, they thought they would receive more; but each of them also received the usual daily wage. And when they received it, they grumbled against the landowner, saying, “These last worked only one hour, and you have made them equal to us who have borne the burden of the day and the scorching heat.” 

But he replied to one of them, “Friend, I am doing you no wrong; did you not agree with me for the usual daily wage? Take what belongs to you and go; I choose to give to this last the same as I give to you. Am I not allowed to do what I choose with what belongs to me? Or are you envious because I am generous?” 

So the last will be first, and the first will be last.’ 

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

SERMON: The Spiritual Discipline of True Justice, 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: They'll Know We Are Christians - 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

Donate To Support Our Mission

Order of Worship for Sunday, September 13: The Spiritual Discipline of Forgiveness

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

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. 

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

Guidelines for Church Re-Launch of In-Person Worship Services

Bishop Hagiya's Special Message in Response to Racism

DISCIPLE BIBLE STUDY, Monday, September 14: Week 13
Time: 5:30 - 7:00 PM PST
Join Zoom Meeting: https://zoom.us/j/598868178?pwd=U1B2YjZYWURDRXJXMStKajI3L1RWZz09

Zoom Fellowship Coffee Hour: Immediately following worship today.

4 Week Zoom Book Club, “Finding Peace in An Anxious World”
Wednesdays at 5:00 PM, Sept. 15, 22

For those who are interested but unable to attend, or those who just love additional information, the UMW has created a useful resource page to accompany the book on their national website, and there you can find videos and reading guides for further exploration:

https://www.unitedmethodistwomen.org/finding-peace-in-an-anxious-world

Brené Brown’s Ted Talk: “The Power of Vulnerability”

UNITED METHODIST WOMEN STATEMENT:
General Conference 2021 Board Task Force Proposed Recommendations

RESOURCES FOR ASSISTANCE:
Food Pantries: https://211la.org/food-resources

There are many different types of food resources available in LA County, and finding what you need can be confusing and overwhelming. 211 LA is here to help navigate the different food supports and programs, and connect you quickly to food resources. They have a mapping tool to help find food benefit programs, COVID Food Relief Programs, groceries/food pantries, meals, senior food needs, child/youth nutritional needs.

SKID ROW COMMUNITY ReFRESH SPOT RE-OPENING!
Friday, September 18 from 11 am - 2pm

VISIONING SESSION II: Monday, September 21 at 1:00 PM via Zoom with Rev. Jennifer Gutierrez

WATER DROP LA:
Every Sunday at 11am, we bring a group of 30+ volunteers to Skid Row to drop off 1,000+ gallons of water. This is what we call a water drop. 

By packing 15+ cars and trucks with water gallons and fanning out across the region, we’re able to reach a significant number of Skid Row residents. While a gallon a week is nowhere near sufficient for healthy survival in Los Angeles’s hot climate, we hope that this regular water distribution, which supplements the actions already being taken by organizers around the city, will curb some of the existing urgent need for clean drinking water. Link to volunteer is open on Monday.

Community Resources:

The Air Quality in LA has become increasingly unhealthy over the past week with the wildfires. Here are some ways you can protect yourself:
Protect yourself by: 

1. Limiting time outdoors

2. Keeping windows & doors closed

3. Running AC to recirculate air & filter out particulates

4. Avoiding using candles & vacuums

You can also go to http://www.aqmd.gov/home/air-quality/wildfire-health-info-smoke-tips for more tips

If you would like to help those affected by wildfires, you can give to UMCOR where 100% of your donation go to helping those in need.

The UMW Racial Justice Charter leaders recommend taking one of all of these step for those who want to fight for racial justice but don't know where to start:

• Vote locally and nationally

• Protest peacefully

• Get involved with education system to make sure education is inclusive, demand college diversity

• Bear witness – offer to help if people of color are being stopped by police and being harassed. “That one takes more courage,” Busby admits.

• Support businesses owned by people of color

• Boycott businesses that exploit workers of color

• Boycott banks that have discriminatory practices

• Support art created by people of color

• Push your mayor or city council for police reform

Stay Connected: 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LAFirstUMC/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/lafirstumc
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/LAFirstUMC/ 
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLh1AQKTgxTXSwwXr-J9qvA 

CALL TO PRAYER: Come, Thou Fount of Every Blessing - 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.  

GOSPEL READING: Matthew 18:21-35, NRSV

Then Peter came and said to him, ‘Lord, if another member of the churchsins against me, how often should I forgive? As many as seven times?’Jesus said to him, ‘Not seven times, but, I tell you, seventy-seven times.

The Parable of the Unforgiving Servant

‘For this reason the kingdom of heaven may be compared to a king who wished to settle accounts with his slaves. When he began the reckoning, one who owed him ten thousand talents was brought to him; and, as he could not pay, his lord ordered him to be sold, together with his wife and children and all his possessions, and payment to be made. So the slave fell on his knees before him, saying, “Have patience with me, and I will pay you everything.” 
And out of pity for him, the lord of that slave released him and forgave him the debt. But that same slave, as he went out, came upon one of his fellow-slaves who owed him a hundred denarii;and seizing him by the throat, he said, “Pay what you owe.” Then his fellow-slave fell down and pleaded with him, “Have patience with me, and I will pay you.” But he refused; then he went and threw him into prison until he should pay the debt. 
When his fellow-slaves saw what had happened, they were greatly distressed, and they went and reported to their lord all that had taken place. Then his lord summoned him and said to him, “You wicked slave! I forgave you all that debt because you pleaded with me. Should you not have had mercy on your fellow-slave, as I had mercy on you?” And in anger his lord handed him over to be tortured until he should pay his entire debt. So my heavenly Father will also do to every one of you, if you do not forgive your brother or sister from your heart.’

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

SERMON: The Spiritual Discipline of Forgiveness, 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: Hard Times - 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

Donate

Order of Worship for Sunday, August 23: The Spiritual Discipline of Knowing Who You Are

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

Tis So Sweet/Time After Time - 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

Guidelines for Church Re-Launch of In-Person Worship Services

Bishop Hagiya's Special Message in Response to Racism

DISCIPLE BIBLE STUDY, Monday, August 24: Week 11
Time: 5:30 - 7:00 PM PST
Join Zoom Meeting: https://zoom.us/j/598868178?pwd=U1B2YjZYWURDRXJXMStKajI3L1RWZz09

Zoom Fellowship Coffee Hour: Immediately following worship today.

4 Week Zoom Book Club, “Finding Peace in An Anxious World”
Wednesdays at 5:00 PM, August 19, 26, Sept. 15, 22

For those who are interested but unable to attend, or those who just love additional information, the UMW has created a useful resource page to accompany the book on their national website, and there you can find videos and reading guides for further exploration:

https://www.unitedmethodistwomen.org/finding-peace-in-an-anxious-world

Stay Connected: 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LAFirstUMC/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/lafirstumc
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/LAFirstUMC/ 
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLh1AQKTgxTXSwwXr-J9qvA 

CALL TO PRAYER: Great is Thy Faithfulness - 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.  

GOSPEL READING: Matthew 16:13-20, NRSV

Now when Jesus came into the district of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, ‘Who do people say that the Son of Man is?’ 
And they said, ‘Some say John the Baptist, but others Elijah, and still others Jeremiah or one of the prophets.’ 
He said to them, ‘But who do you say that I am?’
Simon Peter answered, ‘You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.’
And Jesus answered him, ‘Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah! For flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but my Father in heaven. And I tell you, you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not prevail against it. I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven.’ 
Then he sternly ordered the disciples not to tell anyone that he was the Messiah.

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

SERMON: IDENTITY: The Spiritual Discipline of Knowing Who You Are, 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 Prayer
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name, 
thy kingdom come, thy will be done, 
on earth as it is in heaven. 

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

And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. 
For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, 
for ever and ever. Amen.

MUSIC DURING COMMUNION: Ring the Bells - 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

DONATE TO SUPPORT OUR MISSION

Order of Worship for Sunday, August 16: The Spiritual Discipline of Persistence

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

Up to Here - 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

Guidelines for Church Re-Launch of In-Person Worship Services

Bishop Hagiya's Special Message in Response to Racism

UMW Meeting, Sunday, August 9 at 5 PM via Zoom

DISCIPLE BIBLE STUDY, Monday, August 17: Week 10: God Warns the People through the Prophets - I Kings, Amos, Isaiah, Jeremiah
Time: 5:30 - 7:00 PM PST
Join Zoom Meeting: https://zoom.us/j/598868178?pwd=U1B2YjZYWURDRXJXMStKajI3L1RWZz09

Zoom Fellowship Coffee Hour: Immediately following worship today.

4 Week Zoom Book Club, “Finding Peace in An Anxious World”
Wednesdays at 5:00 PM, August 19, 26, Sept. 15, 22

For those who are interested but unable to attend, or those who just love additional information, the UMW has created a useful resource page to accompany the book on their national website, and there you can find videos and reading guides for further exploration:

https://www.unitedmethodistwomen.org/finding-peace-in-an-anxious-world

Stay Connected: 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LAFirstUMC/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/lafirstumc
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/LAFirstUMC/ 
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLh1AQKTgxTXSwwXr-J9qvA 

CALL TO PRAYER: Blessed Assurance - 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.  

GOSPEL READING: Matthew 15:10-28, NRSV

Then he called the crowd to him and said to them, ‘Listen and understand: it is not what goes into the mouth that defiles a person, but it is what comes out of the mouth that defiles.’ Then the disciples approached and said to him, ‘Do you know that the Pharisees took offence when they heard what you said?’ He answered, ‘Every plant that my heavenly Father has not planted will be uprooted. Let them alone; they are blind guides of the blind. And if one blind person guides another, both will fall into a pit.’ But Peter said to him, ‘Explain this parable to us.’Then he said, ‘Are you also still without understanding? Do you not see that whatever goes into the mouth enters the stomach, and goes out into the sewer? But what comes out of the mouth proceeds from the heart, and this is what defiles. For out of the heart come evil intentions, murder, adultery, fornication, theft, false witness, slander. These are what defile a person, but to eat with unwashed hands does not defile.’

Jesus left that place and went away to the district of Tyre and Sidon. Just then a Canaanite woman from that region came out and started shouting, ‘Have mercy on me, Lord, Son of David; my daughter is tormented by a demon.’ But he did not answer her at all. And his disciples came and urged him, saying, ‘Send her away, for she keeps shouting after us.’ He answered, ‘I was sent only to the lost sheep of the house of Israel.’ But she came and knelt before him, saying, ‘Lord, help me.’ He answered, ‘It is not fair to take the children’s food and throw it to the dogs.’ She said, ‘Yes, Lord, yet even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their masters’ table.’ Then Jesus answered her, ‘Woman, great is your faith! Let it be done for you as you wish.’ And her daughter was healed instantly.

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

SERMON: The Spiritual Discipline of Persistence, 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: Blest Be the Tie That Binds - Mandy McDow: vocals, Salvador Villañueva: guitar, Katerina Lewis: viola

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

Donate to Support Our Mission