Order of Worship for Sunday, February 21: Hope in a Promise Which Cannot Be Broken

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

DISCIPLE BIBLE STUDY, Monday, February 22: Week 30, “Sacrifice” - The Book of Hebrews
Time: 5:30 - 7:00 PM PST
Join Zoom Meeting: https://zoom.us/j/598868178?pwd=U1B2YjZYWURDRXJXMStKajI3L1RWZz09
Monday, March 1 at 5:30, Week 31, “Holy,” - The Books of 1 & 2 Peter, Leviticus 11, 19; Isaiah 52-53, 55-56
Monday, March 8 at 5:30, Week 32, “Victory,” The Book of Revelation
Monday, March 15 at 5:30, Week 33, “Ministry,” The gifts of each disciple
Monday, March 22 at 5:30, Week 34, “Remember,” A Last Supper Together

Lenten Sermon Series: Color Esperanza
February 17: ASH WEDNESDAY - A COVENANT OF HOPE - Noon Prayer Service on FB Live
February 21: Lent I - Hope in a Promise Which Cannot Be Broken
February 28: Lent II - Hope in Believing the Unbelievable
March 7: Lent III - Hope in Righteous Indignation
March 14: Lent IV - Hope in Forgiveness
March 21: Lent V - Hope in What is Forgotten
March 28: Palm Sunday - Jesus Christ Superstar
April 1: Maundy Thursday
April 2: Good Friday
April 4: Easter Sunday
April 11: Sabbath Sunday

United Methodist Higher Learning Scholarship - Deadline March 1st

https://www.umhef.org/deadlineapproaching/mkt_tok=eyJpIjoiWldFNFlqaGxNamxoTTJOayIsInQiOiJXQW1nRWNBRXcwVzYwKzQ5S0F5SjY3UVgyOVwveGVyNitkVDE3c1RlWU8xb2dDSFpLMElmU2xwcm5UN2lPbWk4VkQ4aHlpUUxxVTZnWEU2VmI5Y1pDWFVVbDNvWEY1OFcrRjZHQ2RUOXdzNTYydUQrSEVlbFNmUHpKV2JHS3VBdlMifQ%3D%3D

Pet Food available to low income families and those facing financial hardship every Sunday at select LA Animal Shelters by appointment only. For more information visit: laanimalservices.com/petfoodpantry or call 213-264-8985 to set up your appointment!

VACCINE UPDATE:

Residents 65+ are eligible to be vaccinated starting Wednesday, January 20th. Book your appointments by visiting VaccinateLACounty.com. For additional assistance, call 833-540-0473 between 8:00 am and 8:30 pm.

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

Vaccinations for seniors (and persons with disabilities):

One of the challenges of getting our most vulnerable citizens vaccine appointments is that the methodst to do so are heavily reliant on technology. To help bridge the gap, Margaret Irwin (assistant to Bishop Hagiya), has set up her own grassroots program to match seniors in need or without computers with volunteers willing to spend hours on the phone/online to book vaccination appointments. The demand is greater than the supply as we know but this is a temporary problem, but it will be for a few months.  

https://www.theoccidentalnews.com/community/2021/02/10/a-dose-of-the-truth-to-fight-vaccine-fear-in-nela/2902158 

If you are interested in helping Margaret sign people up for their vaccine appointments, you can send her an email to let her know.

If You have not already done so, please consider signing the Petition for Justice for Our Friend and Member Dr. Aysha Khoury:
Dr. Khoury found out this week that the Kaiser medical school has terminated her contract, and she needs our help to hold the administrators of this school responsible for this racially motivated firing.

Click Here to Contribute to the GoFundMe in her name:
https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-aysha-khoury

Guide to Black History Month Events in Los Angeles:
https://www.discoverlosangeles.com/things-to-do/black-history-month-events-in-los-angeles

COVID-19 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

LA County Rent Relief Updates: https://211la.org/lacounty/rentrelief
- Relief extended through 12/31 for eligible applicants from the 08/20 application period
-New 2021 rent relief program coming soon
-Eviction moratorium extended through Feb. 28
The 2021 Rent Relief Program Applications are not yet available and are under development. Sign up to receive updates when the 2021 Rent Relief Application becomes available at 

Distress Hotline:
If you're feeling anger, isolation or anxiety related to civil unrest, you're not alone. The national Disaster @Distressline offers 24/7 emotional support. Call or text 1-800-985-5990 and #TalkWithUs. #USCapitol

CALL TO PRAYER: They'll Know We Are Christians By Our 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.

Scripture: Mark 1:9-15, NRSV

The Baptism of Jesus
In those days Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee and was baptized by John in the Jordan. And just as he was coming up out of the water, he saw the heavens torn apart and the Spirit descending like a dove on him.And a voice came from heaven, ‘You are my Son, the Beloved; with you I am well pleased.’

The Temptation of Jesus
And the Spirit immediately drove him out into the wilderness. He was in the wilderness for forty days, tempted by Satan; and he was with the wild beasts; and the angels waited on him.

The Beginning of the Galilean Ministry
Now after John was arrested, Jesus came to Galilee, proclaiming the good news of God, and saying, ‘The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God has come near; repent, and believe in the good news.’ 

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

Sermon: Hope in a Promise Which Cannot Be Broken - 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: Down to the River to Pray - 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 Ash Wednesday

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

Remain - El Dorado

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

CALL TO CONFESSION - Joel 2:12-13

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

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

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

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

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

DECLARATION OF FORGIVENESS - Isaiah 58:9b-10

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

BLESSING OF THE OIL, ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF THE ASHES

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

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

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

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

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

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

A Song of Hope: Color Esperanza - El Dorado

Benediction: Isaiah 58:6-8

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

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

Order of Worship for Sunday, February 14: Transfiguration Sunday - Beauty is in Becoming

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

Mountain Lifter - 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, February 22: Week 30, “Sacrifice” - The Book of Hebrews
Time: 5:30 - 7:00 PM PST
Join Zoom Meeting: https://zoom.us/j/598868178?pwd=U1B2YjZYWURDRXJXMStKajI3L1RWZz09
Monday, March 1 at 5:30, Week 31, “Holy,” - The Books of 1 & 2 Peter, Leviticus 11, 19; Isaiah 52-53, 55-56
Monday, March 8 at 5:30, Week 32, “Victory,” The Book of Revelation
Monday, March 15 at 5:30, Week 33, “Ministry,” The gifts of each disciple
Monday, March 22 at 5:30, Week 34, “Remember,” A Last Supper Together

Lenten Sermon Series: Color Esperanza
February 17: ASH WEDNESDAY - A COVENANT OF HOPE - Noon Prayer Service on FB Live
February 21: Lent I - Hope in a Promise Which Cannot Be Broken
February 28: Lent II - Hope in Believing the Unbelievable
March 7: Lent III - Hope in Righteous Indignation
March 14: Lent IV - Hope in Forgiveness
March 21: Lent V - Hope in What is Forgotten
March 28: Palm Sunday - Jesus Christ Superstar
April 1: Maundy Thursday
April 2: Good Friday
April 4: Easter Sunday
April 11: Sabbath Sunday

The Faithful Climate Action Fellowship is investing in young people who are often not as visible or supported in the broader climate, creation care and environmental movement: young (18-26) Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) from the Midwest and Southeast. This is an exciting opportunity for interfaith and climate engagement, and we hope that several young BIPOC connected to United Methodist Women will participate.

This fellowship opportunity is co-organized with Creation Justice Ministries, Greenfaith, Wisconsin Green Muslims and Interfaith Power and Light. Deadline to apply is Feb 15, but if you find someone great after that, let us know.

Would you help spread the word, nominate a young woman, and encourage young women in your network to apply? More info can be found here: http://www.faithfulclimateaction.org/

CALIFORNIA-PACIFIC UMW MID-WINTER VIRTUAL EVENT

"Knitting Together God's Family"
Saturday, February 20, 2021, 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM

https://calpacumc.formstack.com/forms/umwmidwinter2021utm_source=ALL+DATABASE&utm_campaign=61ff1a9d33EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2018_08_09_10_26_COPY_01&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_7248078e6c-61ff1a9d33-111541549

United Methodist Higher Learning Scholarship - Deadline March 1st

https://www.umhef.org/deadlineapproaching/mkt_tok=eyJpIjoiWldFNFlqaGxNamxoTTJOayIsInQiOiJXQW1nRWNBRXcwVzYwKzQ5S0F5SjY3UVgyOVwveGVyNitkVDE3c1RlWU8xb2dDSFpLMElmU2xwcm5UN2lPbWk4VkQ4aHlpUUxxVTZnWEU2VmI5Y1pDWFVVbDNvWEY1OFcrRjZHQ2RUOXdzNTYydUQrSEVlbFNmUHpKV2JHS3VBdlMifQ%3D%3D

Pet Food available to low income families and those facing financial hardship every Sunday at select LA Animal Shelters by appointment only. For more information visit: laanimalservices.com/petfoodpantry or call 213-264-8985 to set up your appointment!

VACCINE UPDATE:

Residents 65+ are eligible to be vaccinated starting Wednesday, January 20th. Book your appointments by visiting VaccinateLACounty.com. For additional assistance, call 833-540-0473 between 8:00 am and 8:30 pm.

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

Vaccinations for seniors (and persons with disabilities):

 One of the challenges of getting our most vulnerable citizens vaccine appointments is that the methodst to do so are heavily reliant on technology. To help bridge the gap, Margaret Irwin (assistant to Bishop Hagiya), has set up her own grassroots program to match seniors in need or without computers with volunteers willing to spend hours on the phone/online to book vaccination appointments. The demand is greater than the supply as we know but this is a temporary problem, but it will be for a few months.  

https://www.theoccidentalnews.com/community/2021/02/10/a-dose-of-the-truth-to-fight-vaccine-fear-in-nela/2902158 

If you are interested in helping Margaret sign people up for their vaccine appointments, you can send her an email to let her know.

If You have not already done so, please consider signing the Petition for Justice for Our Friend and Member Dr. Aysha Khoury:
Dr. Khoury found out this week that the Kaiser medical school has terminated her contract, and she needs our help to hold the administrators of this school responsible for this racially motivated firing.

Click Here to Contribute to the GoFundMe in her name:
https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-aysha-khoury

Guide to Black History Month Events in Los Angeles:
https://www.discoverlosangeles.com/things-to-do/black-history-month-events-in-los-angeles

A Path Forward Through and Out of COVID-19: The Vaccine and The Black Perspective

Saturday, February 20, 2021, 1 PM-6:30 PM EST

A Virtual Town Hall and a monumental discussion on health, healing and the Black Church.

The Reid Temple Healthy Communities Initiative presents A Virtual Town Hall and a monumental discussion on health, healing and the Black Church. Join us for A Path Forward Through and Out of COVID-19: The Vaccine and The Black Perspective with special guest Dr. Anthony S. Fauci, Congresswoman Karen Bass, Bishop James L. Davis and our Pastor Rev. Dr. Mark E. Whitlock and more. Sat. February 20, 2021 at 1PM EST. Stream Stream LIVE online at reidtemple.org/watch, Facebook, and YouTube @reidtempleame

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

LACounty Rent Relief Updates: https://211la.org/lacounty/rentrelief
- Relief extended through 12/31 for eligible applicants from the 08/20 application period
-New 2021 rent relief program coming soon
-Eviction moratorium extended through Feb. 28
The 2021 Rent Relief Program Applications are not yet available and are under development. Sign up to receive updates when the 2021 Rent Relief Application becomes available at 

Distress Hotline:
If you're feeling anger, isolation or anxiety related to civil unrest, you're not alone. The national Disaster @Distressline offers 24/7 emotional support. Call or text 1-800-985-5990 and #TalkWithUs. #USCapitol

CALL TO PRAYER: Swing Low, Sweet Chariot - 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: Mark 9:2-9, NRSV - The Transfiguration

Six days later, Jesus took with him Peter and James and John, and led them up a high mountain apart, by themselves. And he was transfigured before them, and his clothes became dazzling white, such as no one on earth could bleach them. And there appeared to them Elijah with Moses, who were talking with Jesus. Then Peter said to Jesus, ‘Rabbi, it is good for us to be here; let us make three dwellings, one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah.’ He did not know what to say, for they were terrified. Then a cloud overshadowed them, and from the cloud there came a voice, ‘This is my Son, the Beloved; listen to him!’ Suddenly when they looked around, they saw no one with them any more, but only Jesus.

As they were coming down the mountain, he ordered them to tell no one about what they had seen, until after the Son of Man had risen from the dead.

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

Sermon: The Beauty Is In Becoming - 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: Same God - 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, February 7: Power in Humility

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

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

Upcoming Sermon Series:
February 14: Transfiguration Sunday
February 17: ASH WEDNESDAY

Church Council Meeting: Tuesday, February 9 at 6:30 PM via Zoom
Meeting to include discussions about recent proposals regarding our Vision for Development.

Called Charge Conference: Wednesay, February 10 at 5:30 pm via Zoom

1010 Development has had an offer from House of David to purchase Villa Flores. In light of this potential transfer of ownership and shift in management of the community, we have invited Bob Buente, president and CEO of 1010 Housing, to address the process at our next Church Council meeting on Feb. 9 at 6:30 pm.

In order to proceed, the church council needs to hold a charge conference on Wednesday, February 10 at 5:00 pm via Zoom to approve the election of a new Board of Directors. Our District Superintendent, Rev. Mark Nakagawa, will preside. This new board would be nominated by the House of David, as part of a change of control from 1010 Development.

This opportunity raises a number of questions, of course, and we would like to begin with dialogue about the ongoing relationship LA First UMC has with the community in Villa Flores.

The current Board of Directors of 1010 Housing is listed, below: https://www.1010dev.org/board-of-directors
Matt Goulet, Board Chair
Jennifer Gutierrez, Vice Chair
Patricia Benson, Board Secretary (Hope Village Resident & Assistant Manager)
Bob Buente, President & CEO
Carrie Gillis
Dr. Alexandre Tsapin
Vivien Villaverde
Please feel free to send your questions ahead of time so that Bob can come prepared with as many answers as possible.

VACCINE UPDATE:

Residents 65+ are eligible to be vaccinated starting Wednesday, January 20th. Book your appointments by visiting VaccinateLACounty.com. For additional assistance, call 833-540-0473 between 8:00 am and 8:30 pm.

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

If You have not already done so, please consider signing the Petition for Justice for Our Friend and Member Dr. Aysha Khoury:
Dr. Khoury found out this week that the Kaiser medical school has terminated her contract, and she needs our help to hold the administrators of this school responsible for this racially motivated firing.

Click Here to Contribute to the GoFundMe in her name:
https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-aysha-khoury

Guide to Black History Month Events in Los Angeles:
https://www.discoverlosangeles.com/things-to-do/black-history-month-events-in-los-angeles

A Path Forward Through and Out of COVID-19: The Vaccine and The Black Perspective

Saturday, February 20, 2021, 1 PM-6:30 PM EST

A Virtual Town Hall and a monumental discussion on health, healing and the Black Church.

The Reid Temple Healthy Communities Initiative presents A Virtual Town Hall and a monumental discussion on health, healing and the Black Church. Join us for A Path Forward Through and Out of COVID-19: The Vaccine and The Black Perspective with special guest Dr. Anthony S. Fauci, Congresswoman Karen Bass, Bishop James L. Davis and our Pastor Rev. Dr. Mark E. Whitlock and more. Sat. February 20, 2021 at 1PM EST. Stream Stream LIVE online at reidtemple.org/watch, Facebook, and YouTube @reidtempleame

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

LACounty Rent Relief Updates: https://211la.org/lacounty/rentrelief
- Relief extended through 12/31 for eligible applicants from the 08/20 application period
-New 2021 rent relief program coming soon
-Eviction moratorium extended through Feb. 28
The 2021 Rent Relief Program Applications are not yet available and are under development. Sign up to receive updates when the 2021 Rent Relief Application becomes available at 

Distress Hotline:
If you're feeling anger, isolation or anxiety related to civil unrest, you're not alone. The national Disaster @Distressline offers 24/7 emotional support. Call or text 1-800-985-5990 and #TalkWithUs. #USCapitol

CALL TO PRAYER: Amazing Grace - 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: Isaiah 40:21-31, NRSV

Have you not known? Have you not heard? Has it not been told you from the beginning? Have you not understood from the foundations of the earth? 
It is God who sits above the circle of the earth, and its inhabitants are like grasshoppers; who stretches out the heavens like a curtain, and spreads them like a tent to live in; who brings princes to naught, and makes the rulers of the earth as nothing. Scarcely are they planted, scarcely sown, scarcely has their stem taken root in the earth, when the Lord blows upon them, and they wither, and the tempest carries them off like stubble. 

To whom then will you compare me, or who is my equal? says the Holy One. Lift up your eyes on high and see: Who created these? God who brings out their host and numbers them, calling them all by name; because God is great in strength, mighty in power, not one is missing.

Why do you say, O Jacob, and speak, O Israel, “My way is hidden from the Lord, and my right is disregarded by my God”? Have you not known? Have you not heard? The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. The Lord does not faint or grow weary; God’s understanding is unsearchable. God gives power to the faint, and strengthens the powerless. 

Even youths will faint and be weary, and the young will fall exhausted; but those who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength, they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint.

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

Sermon: Power in Humility - 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: 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

Donate

Order of Worship for Sunday, January 31: As One With Authority

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

Soon & Very Soon - 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, February 8: Week 29, “Training” - The Books of 1&2 Timothy, Titus
Time: 5:30 - 7:00 PM PST
Join Zoom Meeting: https://zoom.us/j/598868178?pwd=U1B2YjZYWURDRXJXMStKajI3L1RWZz09
Monday, Feb. 22 at 5:30, Week 30, “Sacrifice,” - The Book of Hebrews
Monday, March 1 at 5:30, Week 31, “Holy,” - The Books of 1 & 2 Peter, Leviticus 11, 19; Isaiah 52-53, 55-56
Monday, March 8 at 5:30, Week 32, “Victory,” The Book of Revelation
Monday, March 15 at 5:30, Week 33, “Ministry,” The gifts of each disciple
Monday, March 22 at 5:30, Week 34, “Remember,” A Last Supper Together (Holy Week)

Upcoming Sermon Series:
February 7: Power In Humility
February 14: Transfiguration Sunday
February 17: ASH WEDNESDAY

EL DORADO: VOL. 1 and SONGS FOR THE SEASON

VACCINE UPDATE:

Residents 65+ are eligible to be vaccinated starting Wednesday, January 20th. Book your appointments by visiting VaccinateLACounty.com. For additional assistance, call 833-540-0473 between 8:00 am and 8:30 pm.

If You have not already done so, please consider signing the Petition for Justice for Our Friend and Member Dr. Aysha Khoury:
Dr. Khoury found out this week that the Kaiser medical school has terminated her contract, and she needs our help to hold the administrators of this school responsible for this racially motivated firing.

Click Here to Contribute to the GoFundMe in her name:
https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-aysha-khoury

Guide to Black History Month Events in Los Angeles:
https://www.discoverlosangeles.com/things-to-do/black-history-month-events-in-los-angeles

A Path Forward Through and Out of COVID-19: The Vaccine and The Black Perspective

Saturday, February 20, 2021, 1 PM-6:30 PM EST

A Virtual Town Hall and a monumental discussion on health, healing and the Black Church.

The Reid Temple Healthy Communities Initiative presents A Virtual Town Hall and a monumental discussion on health, healing and the Black Church. Join us for A Path Forward Through and Out of COVID-19: The Vaccine and The Black Perspective with special guest Dr. Anthony S. Fauci, Congresswoman Karen Bass, Bishop James L. Davis and our Pastor Rev. Dr. Mark E. Whitlock and more. Sat. February 20, 2021 at 1PM EST. Stream Stream LIVE online at reidtemple.org/watch, Facebook, and YouTube @reidtempleame

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

LACounty Rent Relief Updates: https://211la.org/lacounty/rentrelief
- Relief extended through 12/31 for eligible applicants from the 08/20 application period
-New 2021 rent relief program coming soon
-Eviction moratorium extended through Feb. 28
The 2021 Rent Relief Program Applications are not yet available and are under development. Sign up to receive updates when the 2021 Rent Relief Application becomes available at 

Distress Hotline:
If you're feeling anger, isolation or anxiety related to civil unrest, you're not alone. The national Disaster @Distressline offers 24/7 emotional support. Call or text 1-800-985-5990 and #TalkWithUs. #USCapitol

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.

Scripture: Mark 1: 21-28, NRSV

They went to Capernaum; and when the sabbath came, he entered the synagogue and taught. They were astounded at his teaching, for he taught them as one having authority, and not as the scribes.

Just then there was in their synagogue a man with an unclean spirit, and he cried out, “What have you to do with us, Jesus of Nazareth? Have you come to destroy us? I know who you are, the Holy One of God.” But Jesus rebuked him, saying, “Be silent, and come out of him!” And the unclean spirit, convulsing him and crying with a loud voice, came out of him.

They were all amazed, and they kept on asking one another, “What is this? A new teaching—with authority! He commands even the unclean spirits, and they obey him.” At once his fame began to spread throughout the surrounding region of Galilee.

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

Sermon: As One With Authority - 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: Blessed Assurance - 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, January 24, 2021 - Time After Time

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

One Song - 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 25: Week 28, “Freedom” - The Book of Galatians
Time: 5:30 - 7:00 PM PST
Join Zoom Meeting: https://zoom.us/j/598868178?pwd=U1B2YjZYWURDRXJXMStKajI3L1RWZz09
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 10: Baptism of the Lord
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

A Path Forward Through and Out of COVID-19: The Vaccine and The Black Perspective

Saturday, February 20, 2021, 1 PM-6:30 PM EST

A Virtual Town Hall and a monumental discussion on health, healing and the Black Church.

The Reid Temple Healthy Communities Initiative presents A Virtual Town Hall and a monumental discussion on health, healing and the Black Church. Join us for A Path Forward Through and Out of COVID-19: The Vaccine and The Black Perspective with special guest Dr. Anthony S. Fauci, Congresswoman Karen Bass, Bishop James L. Davis and our Pastor Rev. Dr. Mark E. Whitlock and more. Sat. February 20, 2021 at 1PM EST. Stream Stream LIVE online at reidtemple.org/watch, Facebook, and YouTube @reidtempleame

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: Blest Be the Tie That Binds - Mandy McDow, Katerina Lewis, Salvador Villanueva

Pastoral Concern for Diego Ruvalcaba

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: Mark 1:14-20, NRSV

Now after John was arrested, Jesus came to Galilee, proclaiming the good news* of God, and saying, ‘The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God has come near; repent, and believe in the good news.’

As Jesus passed along the Sea of Galilee, he saw Simon and his brother Andrew casting a net into the lake—for they were fishermen. And Jesus said to them, ‘Follow me and I will make you fish for people.’ And immediately they left their nets and followed him. As he went a little farther, he saw James son of Zebedee and his brother John, who were in their boat mending the nets. Immediately he called them; and they left their father Zebedee in the boat with the hired men, and followed him.

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

Sermon: Fulfilled In Your Hearing - Rev. Mandy McDow

The Hill We Climb: Amanda Gorman

When day comes we ask ourselves,
where can we find light in this never-ending shade?
The loss we carry,
a sea we must wade.
We've braved the belly of the beast,
We've learned that quiet isn't always peace,
and the norms and notions
of what just is
isn't always just-ice.

And yet the dawn is ours
before we knew it.
Somehow we do it.
Somehow we've weathered and witnessed
a nation that isn't broken,
but simply unfinished.
We the successors of a country and a time
where a skinny Black girl
descended from slaves and raised by a single mother
can dream of becoming president
only to find herself reciting for one.

And yes we are far from polished.
Far from pristine.
But that doesn't mean we are
striving to form a union that is perfect.
We are striving to forge a union with purpose,
to compose a country committed to all cultures, colors, characters and
conditions of man.

And so we lift our gazes not to what stands between us,
but what stands before us.
We close the divide because we know, to put our future first,
we must first put our differences aside.
We lay down our arms
so we can reach out our arms
to one another.

We seek harm to none and harmony for all.
Let the globe, if nothing else, say this is true,
that even as we grieved, we grew,
that even as we hurt, we hoped,
that even as we tired, we tried,
that we'll forever be tied together, victorious.
Not because we will never again know defeat,
but because we will never again sow division.

Scripture tells us to envision
that everyone shall sit under their own vine and fig tree
and no one shall make them afraid.
If we're to live up to our own time,
then victory won't lie in the blade.
But in all the bridges we've made,
that is the promise to glade,
the hill we climb.
If only we dare.

It's because being American is more than a pride we inherit,
it's the past we step into
and how we repair it.
We've seen a force that would shatter our nation
rather than share it.
Would destroy our country if it meant delaying democracy.
And this effort very nearly succeeded.
But while democracy can be periodically delayed,
it can never be permanently defeated.

In this truth,
in this faith we trust.
For while we have our eyes on the future,
history has its eyes on us.

This is the era of just redemption
we feared at its inception.
We did not feel prepared to be the heirs
of such a terrifying hour
but within it we found the power
to author a new chapter.
To offer hope and laughter to ourselves.

So while once we asked,
how could we possibly prevail over catastrophe?
Now we assert,
How could catastrophe possibly prevail over us?
We will not march back to what was,
but move to what shall be.

A country that is bruised but whole,
benevolent but bold,
fierce and free.
We will not be turned around
or interrupted by intimidation,
because we know our inaction and inertia
will be the inheritance of the next generation.

Our blunders become their burdens.
But one thing is certain,
If we merge mercy with might,
and might with right,
then love becomes our legacy,
and change our children's birthright.

So let us leave behind a country
better than the one we were left with.
Every breath from my bronze-pounded chest,
we will raise this wounded world into a wondrous one.
We will rise from the gold-limbed hills of the west.
We will rise from the windswept northeast,
where our forefathers first realized revolution.
We will rise from the lake-rimmed cities of the midwestern states.
We will rise from the sunbaked south.

We will rebuild, reconcile and recover.
And every known nook of our nation and
every corner called our country,
our people diverse and beautiful will emerge,
battered and beautiful.
When day comes we step out of the shade,
aflame and unafraid,
the new dawn blooms as we free it.

For there is always light,
if only we're brave enough to see it.
If only we're brave enough to be it.

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: Tis So Sweet To Trust in Jesus/Time After Time - 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, January 10 - Baptism of the Lord

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

Let the Day Begin - 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 11: Week 27, “Love” - The Book of 1 Corinthians
Time: 5:30 - 7:00 PM PST
Join Zoom Meeting: https://zoom.us/j/598868178?pwd=U1B2YjZYWURDRXJXMStKajI3L1RWZz09
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 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

UMW Meeting: Today at 5:00 via Zoom - Contact office @ LAFirstUMC.org for details!

Church Council Meeting: Tuesday at 6:30 PM via Zoom

Rev. Rob Lee’s Pandemic Revival

January 17th-21st 2021

Rev. Rob Lee loves the art and craft of proclaiming God’s love through preaching. We recognize this past year has been hard, so Pastor Rob has created a revival for our church in the online space—and he did not disappoint. Consider this a “greatest hits” of some of the best preachers of our day. From Florida to Tennessee to North Carolina to California to London, England we have preachers coming to us to offer a word of love and hope during these most troubling times. We hope you will check this out and visit us as these pre-recorded sermons are aired the week of January 17th. We will offer a full service with music courtesy of First United Methodist Church of Los Angeles and the Rev. Mandy McDow who preached our homecoming service this year.

A Path Forward Through and Out of COVID-19: The Vaccine and The Black Perspective

Saturday, February 20, 2021, 1 PM-6:30 PM EST

A Virtual Town Hall and a monumental discussion on health, healing and the Black Church.

The Reid Temple Healthy Communities Initiative presents A Virtual Town Hall and a monumental discussion on health, healing and the Black Church. Join us for A Path Forward Through and Out of COVID-19: The Vaccine and The Black Perspective with special guest Dr. Anthony S. Fauci, Congresswoman Karen Bass, Bishop James L. Davis and our Pastor Rev. Dr. Mark E. Whitlock and more. Sat. February 20, 2021 at 1PM EST. Stream Stream LIVE online at reidtemple.org/watch, Facebook, and YouTube @reidtempleame

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: Take Me To the River - 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: Mark 1:4-11, NRSV

John the baptizer appeared in the wilderness, proclaiming a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. And people from the whole Judean countryside and all the people of Jerusalem were going out to him, and were baptized by him in the river Jordan, confessing their sins. Now John was clothed with camel’s hair, with a leather belt around his waist, and he ate locusts and wild honey. He proclaimed, ‘The one who is more powerful than I is coming after me; I am not worthy to stoop down and untie the thong of his sandals. I have baptized you with water; but he will baptize you with the Holy Spirit.’

In those days Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee and was baptized by John in the Jordan. And just as he was coming up out of the water, he saw the heavens torn apart and the Spirit descending like a dove on him.And a voice came from heaven, ‘You are my Son, the Beloved; with you I am well pleased.’

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

Sermon: Baptism of the Lord: You Are My Child, In You I Am Well Pleased - Rev. Mandy McDow

REAFFIRMING OUR BAPTISMAL COVENANT: UMC Book of Worship

Sblings in Christ:
through the sacrament of baptism
God's Spirit has been poured out upon water,
water poured over and immersing us,
water that flows freely for all who will receive it,
water from the streams of God's saving power and justice,
water that brings hope to all who thirst for righteousness,
water that refreshes life, nurtures growth, and offers new birth.

Today we come to the waters,
to renew our commitments
in each other's presence
to Christ who has raised us,
the Spirit who has birthed us,
and the Creator who is making all things new.

Renunciation of Sin and Profession of Faith

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

I do.

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

I do.

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

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

I do.

Will you be living witnesses to the gospel, individually and together, wherever you are, and in all that you do?

We will remain faithful members of Christ's holy church
And serve as Christ's representatives in the world. 

Will you receive and profess the Christian faith as contained in the Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments?

We affirm and teach the faith of the whole church
as we put our trust
in God, the Father Almighty.
in Jesus Christ, his only Son.
and in the Holy Spirit,
one God now and forever. 

Thanksgiving Over the Water
The Spirit of the Lord is with us.
Even so, come Lord Jesus!
Let us pray.

Almighty God, the life you birthed in us
by baptism into Jesus Christ
will never die.
Your justice never fails.
Your mercy is everlasting.

Come upon us, Holy Spirit!
Come upon these waters.
Let these waters remind us of your righteousness and justice.
Let these waters renew in us the resurrection power of Jesus.
Let these waters make us long for your coming reign.
Glory to you! Almighty God, Jesus Christ, Spirit of fire, Spirit over the waters, Spirit of holiness!
All glory is yours, now and forever. Amen!

Remember that you are baptized, and rejoice!

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 BAPTISMAL REMEMBRANCE: Down to the River to Pray - 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. 

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