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, March 22: Week 34, Rumana Choudhury’s lesson on Islam
Time: 5:30 - 7:00 PM PST
Join Zoom Meeting: https://zoom.us/j/598868178?pwd=U1B2YjZYWURDRXJXMStKajI3L1RWZz09

Monday, March 22 at 5:30, Week 34, Rumana Choudhury’s lesson on Islam

Monday, March 29 at 5:30, Week 35, “Remember,” A Last Supper Together

Lenten Sermon Series: Color Esperanza
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

If You have not already done so, please consider supporting efforts for Justice for Our Friend and Member Dr. Aysha Khoury:

Dr. Khoury found out that the Kaiser Medical School terminated her contract after she gave a school sanctioned talk on racism in medicine, and she needs our help to hold the administrators of this school responsible for this racially motivated firing.

You can learn more about her story here: https://civilrightslawyerla.com/khoury

You can contribute to the GoFundMe in her name here:
https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-aysha-khoury

Petition to Support Affordable Housing in Skid Row:

A couple years ago our Church Council endorsed the work of Skid Row Now and 2040, a coalition of Skid Row stakeholders looking to bring more affordable housing into Skid Row and improve the neighborhood for current residents. The 2040 refers to DTLA 2040, the current City Hall effort to update the Downtown Community Plan which sets Land Use policy and zoning. Please sign this Skid Row Now and 2040 online petition that will be sent to the Planning Commissioners. Now and 2040 has had a very positive relationship with the Department of City Planning over the years.

Sign the petition here: http://chng.it/HM82hTBp56

Statement Against Anti-Asian Violence (AALMP) from Bishop Hagiya
READ THE STATEMENT >>

A few days ago, the Asian American Language Ministry Plan with the General Board of Global Ministries and the National Federation of Asian American United Methodists issued a statement jointly condemning the rise of anti-Asian American violence in the United States of America.

Los Angeles Area Resident Bishop Grant J. Hagiya is a signatory to the letter along with several clergypersons of the California-Pacific Conference.

Given the incident which took place in the Atlanta area yesterday, Rev. John Oda, who directs the Asian American Language Ministry Plan, adds, “This ongoing, rising violence and hatred which sadly includes the recent murders in Atlanta of eight Asian American women – this violence is not just an Asian American concern. This is not an African American concern, a Hispanic/Latino concern, a Native American concern or a Pacific Islander concern. This increase in violence, these shootings in Atlanta are a concern for ALL Christians; for anyone who is striving to live out the tenets of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. They are a concern for all of us are seeking to fulfill His commandment to love one another. “

The United Methodist Church has a moral obligation to be vocally and visibly outraged at these recent murders in Atlanta and this precipitous rise in violence and hatred against the Asian American community.

Learn Intervention Techniques: Advancing Justice | AAJC has partnered with Hollaback! to make training available to equip people with techniques on how to safely intervene when they see or experience anti-Asian harassment. The next dates for each of the free public trainings in our three-part series follow:

Bystander Intervention to Stop Anti-Asian/American Harassment and Xenophobia

Tuesday, March 23 at 4pm EST/ 3pm MT/ 2pm PT/ 12pm HST. Register Here
Monday, April 5 at 1pm EST/ 12pm MT/ 11am PT/ 9am HST. Register Here
Wednesday, April 14 at 6:30pm EST/ 5:30pm MT/ 4:30pm PT/ 2:30 HST. Register Here
Thursday, April 29 at 3pm EST/ 2pm EST/ 1pm PT/ 11am HST. Register Here.

What Can You Do?

Report and help us document hate and harassment: We encourage community members who have experienced anti-Asian hate to share their experiences and report to our website www.StandAgainstHatred.org, which is accessible in Chinese, Korean, and Vietnamese.

2021 Lois Balsley Scholarship

The California-Pacific United Methodist Foundation is now accepting applications for the 2021 Lois Balsley Scholarship. This scholarship is awarded annually to college bound students within the Conference. Graduating high school seniors within the Cal-Pac Conference who plan to enroll in a two or four-year institution of higher learning in the Fall of 2021 are potentially eligible to apply. For this year only, the Grants Committee has relaxed the cumulative GPA requirement from 3.0 to 2.5, to give grace to students who may be adversely affected by the pandemic and virtual learning experience. Application is attached to this email. Call Nia Bailey at 626-568-7347 for more information.

General Board of Higher Education & Ministry Scholarships

The GBHEM scholarship application opens in January of each year. You can only submit one application per year where it will be screened for all possible eligible programs. You may indicate on the first page of the scholarship application which of the below listed programs you would most like to be considered for. Award amounts below are a general estimate of awards given. Scholarship programs are divided into three categories: General Scholarships, Racial-Ethnic Scholarships, and Ministry as a Career Scholarships.

SAI/UMC Latino Youth Scholarship Program - Apply Here!

Spanish American Institute (SAI) has opened the application process for the SAI/UMC Latino Youth Scholarships beginning mid-February until April 10, 2021.Scholarship applicants must: 1) have been a member of a local California-Pacific United Methodist Church for at least one year, and 2) provide a letter of recommendation from the Pastor or Youth Director indicating faithful service in a leadership role to the church and/or community. SAI awards $1,000 scholarships to selected applicants. The application deadline is April 10, 2021. For further information, email info@saischolars.org.

Bishops call Special Session of General Conference, issue timeline forward

In response to the further postponement of the 2020 General Conference, the Council of Bishops (COB) is calling a Special Session of the General Conference of The United Methodist Church (UMC) to be convened online on May 8, 2021.

The decision to call the Special Session came in conjunction with the Commission on the General Conference’s announcement of a further postponement of the 2020 General Conference to August 2022. The General Conference had been previously postponed to August 2021 due the COVID-19 pandemic. It is now scheduled to take place August 29 to September 6, 2022, in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Click here to read the Commission’s announcement.

Women's Month El Pueblo LA Virtual Tour including the Beloved Biddy Mason:

In honor of #WomensHistoryMonth , #ElPuebloLA is proud to announce our newest digital #tour: Historical Women of El Pueblo: Highlighting Female Pioneers in #LosAngeles History.

For more info or to reserve your free tour, call (213) 628-1274 or email EPTours@lacity.org.

VACCINE UPDATE:

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.

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: All Who Are Thirsty - 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: John 12:20-36, NRSV

Now among those who went up to worship at the festival were some Greeks. They came to Philip, who was from Bethsaida in Galilee, and said to him, “Sir, we wish to see Jesus.” Philip went and told Andrew; then Andrew and Philip went and told Jesus. Jesus answered them, “The hour has come for the Son of Man to be glorified. Very truly, I tell you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains just a single grain; but if it dies, it bears much fruit. Those who love their life lose it, and those who hate their life in this world will keep it for eternal life. Whoever serves me must follow me, and where I am, there will my servant be also. Whoever serves me, the Father will honor.

“Now my soul is troubled. And what should I say—‘Father, save me from this hour’? No, it is for this reason that I have come to this hour. Father, glorify your name.” Then a voice came from heaven, “I have glorified it, and I will glorify it again.” The crowd standing there heard it and said that it was thunder. Others said, “An angel has spoken to him.” Jesus answered, “This voice has come for your sake, not for mine. Now is the judgment of this world; now the ruler of this world will be driven out. And I, when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all people to myself.” He said this to indicate the kind of death he was to die. The crowd answered him, “We have heard from the law that the Messiah remains forever. How can you say that the Son of Man must be lifted up? Who is this Son of Man?” Jesus said to them, “The light is with you for a little longer. Walk while you have the light, so that the darkness may not overtake you. If you walk in the darkness, you do not know where you are going. While you have the light, believe in the light, so that you may become children of light.” After Jesus had said this, he departed and hid from them.

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

Sermon: Hope in 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 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: Spirit in the Sky - 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

Mandy McDow

March 14, 2021

Order of Worship for Sunday, March 14: Hope In Forgiveness

Mandy McDow

March 14, 2021

Live Stream Worship:
Facebook: Los Angeles First United Methodist Church
Twitter: 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:

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, March 15: Week 33, “Ministry,” The gifts of each disciple
Time: 5:30 - 7:00 PM PST
Join Zoom Meeting: https://zoom.us/j/598868178?pwd=U1B2YjZYWURDRXJXMStKajI3L1RWZz09
Monday, March 15 at 5:30, Week 33, “Ministry,” The gifts of each disciple
Monday, March 22 at 5:30, Week 34, Rumana Choudhury’s lesson on Islam
Monday, March 29 at 5:30, Week 35, “Remember,” A Last Supper Together

Lenten Sermon Series: Color Esperanza
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

UMW Meeting: Sunday, March 14 at 3:00 PM via Zoom

If You have not already done so, please consider supporting efforts for Justice for Our Friend and Member Dr. Aysha Khoury:

You can learn more about her story here: https://civilrightslawyerla.com/khoury

You can contribute to the GoFundMe in her name here:
https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-aysha-khoury

2021 Lois Balsley Scholarship

General Board of Higher Education & Ministry Scholarships

Bishops call Special Session of General Conference, issue timeline forward

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:

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

Vaccinations for seniors (and persons with disabilities):

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.

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

CALL TO PRAYER: Come, Ye Sinners - El Dorado

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

Scripture: John 3:14-21, NRSV

And just as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, so must the Son of Man be lifted up, that whoever believes in him may have eternal life.

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

‘Indeed, God did not send the Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him. Those who believe in him are not condemned; but those who do not believe are condemned already, because they have not believed in the name of the only Son of God. And this is the judgement, that the light has come into the world, and people loved darkness rather than light because their deeds were evil. For all who do evil hate the light and do not come to the light, so that their deeds may not be exposed. But those who do what is true come to the light, so that it may be clearly seen that their deeds have been done in God.’

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

Sermon: Hope in Forgiveness - Rev. Mandy McDow

HOLY COMMUNION

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

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

Mandy McDow

March 7, 2021

Order of Worship for Sunday, March 7: Hope in Righteous Indignation

Mandy McDow

March 7, 2021

You Are Enough Empowerment Instagram Post.jpeg

Live Stream Worship:
Facebook: Los Angeles First United Methodist Church
Twitter: 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:

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

Donate

DISCIPLE BIBLE STUDY, Monday, March 1: Week 31, “Victory,” The Book of Revelation
Time: 5:30 - 7:00 PM PST
Join Zoom Meeting: https://zoom.us/j/598868178?pwd=U1B2YjZYWURDRXJXMStKajI3L1RWZz09
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, Rumana Choudhury’s lesson on Islam
Monday, March 29 at 5:30, Week 35, “Remember,” A Last Supper Together

Lenten Sermon Series: Color Esperanza
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

Church Council: Tuesday, March 9 at 6:30 PM via Zoom

UMW Meeting: Sunday, March 14 at 3:00 PM via Zoom

If You have not already done so, please consider supporting efforts for Justice for Our Friend and Member Dr. Aysha Khoury:

You can learn more about her story here: https://civilrightslawyerla.com/khoury

You can contribute to the GoFundMe in her name here:
https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-aysha-khoury

2021 Lois Balsley Scholarship

General Board of Higher Education & Ministry Scholarships

Bishops call Special Session of General Conference, issue timeline forward

VACCINE UPDATE:

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

Vaccinations for seniors (and persons with disabilities):

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.

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

CALL TO PRAYER: For What It's Worth - El Dorado

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

Scripture: John 2:13-22, NRSV - Jesus Cleanses the Temple

The Passover of the Jews was near, and Jesus went up to Jerusalem. In the temple he found people selling cattle, sheep, and doves, and the money-changers seated at their tables. Making a whip of cords, he drove all of them out of the temple, both the sheep and the cattle. He also poured out the coins of the money-changers and overturned their tables.He told those who were selling the doves, ‘Take these things out of here! Stop making my Father’s house a market-place!’ His disciples remembered that it was written, ‘Zeal for your house will consume me.’The Jews then said to him, ‘What sign can you show us for doing this?’Jesus answered them, ‘Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up.’ The Jews then said, ‘This temple has been under construction for forty-six years, and will you raise it up in three days?’ But he was speaking of the temple of his body. After he was raised from the dead, his disciples remembered that he had said this; and they believed the scripture and the word that Jesus had spoken.

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

Sermon: Hope in Righteous Indignation - Rev. Mandy McDow

HOLY COMMUNION

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: Up to Here - 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

Mandy McDow

February 28, 2021

Order of Worship for Sunday, February 28: Hope in Believing the Unbelievable

Mandy McDow

February 28, 2021

Lent II - Hope in Believing the Unbelievable.jpeg

Live Stream Worship:
Facebook: Los Angeles First United Methodist Church
Twitter: 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:

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, March 1: Week 31, “Holy” - The Books of 1 & 2 Peter, Leviticus 11, 19; Isaiah 52-53, 55-56
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 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

Be a Part of The United Methodist Church Easter Virtual Choir!
Upload your video by 12:00 p.m. CST on Friday, March 5

2021 Lois Balsley Scholarship

United Methodist Higher Education Foundation Scholarships - Deadline March 1st

UMHEF offers several scholarship opportunities to United Methodist students attending or seeking to attend a United Methodist-related institution of higher education. Last year, UMHEF awarded more than $2.3 million to over 1,000 students. YOU can be one of those scholars!

GBHEM - Scholarships (Enrolled in the United States).jpeg

General Board of Higher Education & Ministry Scholarships

Bishops call Special Session of General Conference, issue timeline forward

VACCINE UPDATE:

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

Vaccinations for seniors (and persons with disabilities):

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

CALL TO PRAYER: Open Your Eyes - El Dorado

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

Scripture: Mark 8:31-38, NRSV

Then he began to teach them that the Son of Man must undergo great suffering, and be rejected by the elders, the chief priests, and the scribes, and be killed, and after three days rise again. He said all this quite openly. And Peter took him aside and began to rebuke him. But turning and looking at his disciples, he rebuked Peter and said, ‘Get behind me, Satan! For you are setting your mind not on divine things but on human things.’

He called the crowd with his disciples, and said to them, ‘If any want to become my followers, let them deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me. For those who want to save their life will lose it, and those who lose their life for my sake, and for the sake of the gospel, will save it.For what will it profit them to gain the whole world and forfeit their life?Indeed, what can they give in return for their life? Those who are ashamed of me and of my words in this adulterous and sinful generation, of them the Son of Man will also be ashamed when he comes in the glory of his Father with the holy angels.’

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

Sermon: Hope in Believing the Unbelievable - Rev. Mandy McDow

HOLY COMMUNION

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

Mandy McDow

February 21, 2021

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

Mandy McDow

February 21, 2021

Screenshot 2021-02-21 at 9.36.10 AM.jpeg

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

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

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:

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

VACCINE UPDATE:

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

Vaccinations for seniors (and persons with disabilities):

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

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

CALL TO PRAYER: They'll Know We Are Christians By Our Love - El Dorado

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

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

Mandy McDow

February 17, 2021

Order of Worship for Ash Wednesday

Mandy McDow

February 17, 2021

For My Sake the World Was Created.Card.png

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.

Mandy McDow

February 14, 2021

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

Mandy McDow

February 14, 2021

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

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

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:

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

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

VACCINE UPDATE:

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

Vaccinations for seniors (and persons with disabilities):

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

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

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

CALL TO PRAYER: Swing Low, Sweet Chariot - El Dorado

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

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

Mandy McDow

February 6, 2021

Order of Worship for Sunday, February 7: Power in Humility

Mandy McDow

February 6, 2021

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

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

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:

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:

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.

Covid Testing

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

CALL TO PRAYER: Amazing Grace - El Dorado

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

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

Mandy McDow

January 31, 2021

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

Mandy McDow

January 31, 2021

Sunday January 30th, 2021 @ 10_30am.jpeg

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

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

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:

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

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.

Covid Testing

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

CALL TO PRAYER: Holy Spirit - El Dorado

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

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

Mandy McDow

January 24, 2021

Order of Worship for Sunday, January 24, 2021 - Time After Time

Mandy McDow

January 24, 2021

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

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

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:

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.

Covid Testing

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

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

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

Mandy McDow

January 17, 2021

Order of Worship for Sunday, January 17: God Knows Our Name, Andrew Janey, preaching

Mandy McDow

January 17, 2021

Order of Worship for Sunday, January 17: God Knows Our Name, Andrew Janey, preaching

“Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere. We are caught in an inescapablenetwork of mutuality, tied in a single garment of destiny. Whatever affects one directly, affects all indirectly.” - Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr, Letters from the Birmingham Jail

Mandy McDow

January 10, 2021

Order of Worship for Sunday, January 10 - Baptism of the Lord

Mandy McDow

January 10, 2021

Livestream on Facebook, Twitter, & YouTube (1).jpeg

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

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

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:

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.

Covid Testing

Earthquake Preparedness

COVID-19 vaccines are here!

CALL TO PRAYER: Take Me To the River - El Dorado

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.

Virtual Coffee Hour Begins now!
Immediately following worship on Zoom

Donate