Order of Worship for Sunday, May 1, 2022: A Season of Testimony: Tell Somebody! - Tom Grode

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

They’ll Know We Are Christians By Our Love - El Dorado

Welcome - Stephen Folds

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. 

United Methodist Resources:

Come to the Table: a Conference-Wide Bible Study
Conference-wide Bible Study begins the week of May 8, 2022. All are invited to register and participate for three consecutive weeks, via ZOOM. https://bit.ly/3jp4dwe

The California-Pacific United Methodist Foundation is pleased to announce its Grants and Scholarship Program for 2022. 
The Foundation will be making grants and scholarships of over $170,000 this year:

  • Scholarships are available for undergraduate students affiliated with churches within our Annual Conference from the Lois Balsley Scholarship Fund.

  • Continuing Education grants are available to Elders and Deacons who are members of the Annual Conference.

  • Ministry Grants are available for Children’s Ministry, Youth Ministry, Sr. Adult Ministry, International Workteams, Church Growth, and Urban Ministry.

Scholarship applications are due April 30; Ministry & Continuing Education Grant applications due May 6, 2022. Applications are available on the Foundation website at www.cpumf.org

The California-Pacific Conference and its Disaster Response Task Force are seeking volunteers to work on restoring living quarters for refugees on the CST campus in Claremont, California. For questions, contact Judy Lewis at DFJKLewis@aol.com or 909.731.8248. https://bit.ly/3uYkj5u 

A Quick Guide to Overt and Covert Racism shared by the UMC's Commision on Race and Religion

The 38th Annual Session of the California-Pacific Conference will be held over four non-consecutive days and will feature in-person and online options for participants. This is a way of creating space and opportunity for connection and safety for clergy and laity.
Legislative sections (June 7) and business sessions (June 15) will be held online via Zoom; Worship, ordination mission opportunities, and other celebrations (June 17 & 18) will be held in person in Costa Mesa, CA. All plenary and business sessions will be livestreamed.
Two informational flyers have been made available for download: Save The Date (image file), When is Annual Conference 2022 (PDF).

Registration will open April 1, 2022.

u to give input on what the church in the Western Jurisdiction should look like.

General Conference Postponed until 2024
As the pandemic continues and the wait time for visas stretches to over two years in some countries, the Commission on the General Conference announced this week that the 2020 General Conference cannot be held in 2022 due to COVID-related and governmental policies/constraints.

COMMUNITY RESOURCES:

Ways to Send Aid to the People of Ukraine🇺🇦:
Over 1 million people have fled Ukraine in search of safety and refuge. While neighboring countries are opening their borders to many, the humanitarian need is overwhelming. If you are looking for a way to support the refugees, check this non-exhaustive list for organizations who are on the front lines of assistance.

Free at-⁠home COVID-⁠19 tests: https://www.covidtests.gov
Every home in the U.S. can soon order 4 free at-⁠home COVID-⁠19 tests. The tests will be completely free—there are no shipping costs and you don’t need to enter a credit card number. Ordering begins January 19: Click here to order your tests.

LA County’s Guaranteed Income Program is launching!
Eligible residents who are selected will receive $1,000 a month to help them financially breathe a bit easier.
APPLICATIONS START MARCH 31, 2022
For more details, visit breathe.lacounty.gov or respira.lacounty.gov

3 Levels of Resources for Renters and Landlord Assistance
LA: https://www.stayhousedla.org/ or call 1-888-694-0040
California: https://housing.ca.gov/ or call 833-430-2122, Applications close March 31st!
Federal: Federal Rental Assistance Program

Sliding Scale Therapy at the Maple Center
As Ashley mentioned last week, the Maple Center is a great place to start if you want to find resources for mental health. They do therapy on an income based sliding scale, and are very respectful and caring people. https://www.maple4counseling.org/

Food Equity
1 in 10 residents struggles with food insecurity. LA County has convened the Food Equity Roundtable to address systemic inequities in our food system. Govt, philanthropy & nonprofit leaders will soon issue a blueprint for change. Have ideas? Email lafoodequityroundtable@gmail.com

Support The Ending PUSHOUT Act
This summer, many United Methodist Women members and friends all across the country participated in the Mission U study of Pushout: The Criminalization of Black Girls in Schools by Dr. Monique Morris. We learned about the extreme racial disparities in discipline impacting Black girls. Addressing the deep roots of intersecting oppressions targeting Black girls is complex and long-term work. There is no simple one-and-done fix. But we can have an impact. One way we can help make change is by showing our support for an important federal bill, The Ending PUSHOUT Act, and by encouraging our loved ones to join us in action.

The Ending PUSHOUT Act of 2021 (H.R.2248): 

  • creates a $2.5 billion fund to incentivize schools and states to abandon unfair and discriminatory disciplinary policies and practices that push children of color out of the classroom; 

  • strengthens civil rights monitoring and enforcement; 

  • and establishes a task force to address school pushout, with particular attention to the needs of girls of color. 

Participating states and schools would be supported to invest in restorative practices, trauma-informed care, counselors, social workers and mental health professionals. Funds could not be used for police in schools. Please join us in supporting The Ending PUSHOUT Act. Already taken action in support of this bill? Multiply your impact by asking three friends to join you in taking action on this campaign.

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

Vaccines:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

CALL TO PRAYER: Great Are You Lord - El Dorado

Joys and Concerns: We believe that the best way to bear our burdens is to share them with one another. You are invited to share your joys and concerns so that our community can hold these things in our hearts as we lift them to God together. 

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

TESTIMONY: Tom Grode

Scripture: John 21:15-19, NRSV

When they had finished breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter, ‘Simon son of John, do you love me more than these?’ He said to him, ‘Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.’ Jesus said to him, ‘Feed my lambs.’ A second time he said to him, ‘Simon son of John, do you love me?’ He said to him, ‘Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.’ Jesus said to him, ‘Tend my sheep.’ He said to him the third time, ‘Simon son of John, do you love me?’ Peter felt hurt because he said to him the third time, ‘Do you love me?’ And he said to him, ‘Lord, you know everything; you know that I love you.’ Jesus said to him, ‘Feed my sheep. Very truly, I tell you, when you were younger, you used to fasten your own belt and to go wherever you wished. But when you grow old, you will stretch out your hands, and someone else will fasten a belt around you and take you where you do not wish to go.’(He said this to indicate the kind of death by which he would glorify God.) After this he said to him, ‘Follow me.’

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

Sermon: Follow Me? - 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.

ALL: We give thanks for all that God has already given you and we welcome you in Christian love.
As members together with you in the Body of Christ, we renew our covenant faithfully to participate in the ministries of the church by our prayers, presence, gifts, service, and witness, that in everything, God may be glorified.

MUSIC DURING OFFERING AND COMMUNION: Times Like These - El Dorado

Benediction Remember:
God is with you,
God is for you, 
God refuses to be God without you. 
And may all of God’s people say: Amen. 

Donate

Order of Worship for Easter Sunday, April 17, 2022: Why Do You Look For the Living Among the Dead?

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

Call to Worship
One: Alleluia! Christ is Risen!
Many: Christ is Risen, indeed! Alleluia!
One: Easter people, raise your voices!
Many: Jesus Christ, our King, is risen!
One: Now we are the ones to shout, “Where, O Death, is your victory?”
Many: Jesus Christ is risen! Alleluia! Amen!

Superstar - El Dorado

Welcome - Stephen Folds

Christ the Lord Is Risen Today - 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. 

TOP 5 ANNOUNCEMENTS

United Methodist Resources:

Come to the Table: a Conference-Wide Bible Study
Conference-wide Bible Study begins the week of May 8, 2022. All are invited to register and participate for three consecutive weeks, via ZOOM. https://bit.ly/3jp4dwe

The California-Pacific United Methodist Foundation is pleased to announce its Grants and Scholarship Program for 2022. 
The Foundation will be making grants and scholarships of over $170,000 this year:

  • Scholarships are available for undergraduate students affiliated with churches within our Annual Conference from the Lois Balsley Scholarship Fund.

  • Continuing Education grants are available to Elders and Deacons who are members of the Annual Conference.

  • Ministry Grants are available for Children’s Ministry, Youth Ministry, Sr. Adult Ministry, International Workteams, Church Growth, and Urban Ministry.

Scholarship applications are due April 30; Ministry & Continuing Education Grant applications due May 6, 2022. Applications are available on the Foundation website at www.cpumf.org

The California-Pacific Conference and its Disaster Response Task Force are seeking volunteers to work on restoring living quarters for refugees on the CST campus in Claremont, California. For questions, contact Judy Lewis at DFJKLewis@aol.com or 909.731.8248. https://bit.ly/3uYkj5u 

A Quick Guide to Overt and Covert Racism shared by the UMC's Commision on Race and Religion

The 38th Annual Session of the California-Pacific Conference will be held over four non-consecutive days and will feature in-person and online options for participants. This is a way of creating space and opportunity for connection and safety for clergy and laity.
Legislative sections (June 7) and business sessions (June 15) will be held online via Zoom; Worship, ordination mission opportunities, and other celebrations (June 17 & 18) will be held in person in Costa Mesa, CA. All plenary and business sessions will be livestreamed.
Two informational flyers have been made available for download: Save The Date (image file), When is Annual Conference 2022 (PDF).

Registration will open April 1, 2022.

u to give input on what the church in the Western Jurisdiction should look like.

General Conference Postponed until 2024
As the pandemic continues and the wait time for visas stretches to over two years in some countries, the Commission on the General Conference announced this week that the 2020 General Conference cannot be held in 2022 due to COVID-related and governmental policies/constraints.

Bishop Grant Hagiya's Easter Message

As we observe the most sacred of days for us as Christians, let me remind you that we walk the same journey as Jesus during this time. Today, we are reminded of the pain, suffering, and torture that Jesus experienced on Good Friday. It was more than any human could bear, and Jesus faced this alone with no support from those who abandoned him.

So too, in our world, people are suffering and dying in a senseless war in Ukraine, often alone and abandoned. On the Island of Tonga, people continue to suffer from the devastating effects of the volcanic eruption that caused massive damage to their island. In our country, innocent victims are suffering and dying over senseless mass shootings, and all over the world living species are being driven to extinction due to global warming and the destruction of our environment.

And yet, we know that our sacred story does not end with suffering and death. We cannot bypass Good Friday, but we also know that God has the last word. We know that if we are faithful in our sufferings, an Easter dawn will break, and God’s glory will shine forth. As we walk through the very shadow of death, let us remember that God turns the table on death itself, and resurrection takes its place in the divine order of all things.

As we truly walk the journey of our Savior, Jesus Christ, we cannot escape the suffering and death, and yet, along this same journey, life and love await us in the end. It is worth that wait. Indeed, it is worth that wait.

Be the Hope,

Bishop Grant J. Hagiya
Los Angeles Area Resident Bishop

COMMUNITY RESOURCES:

Ways to Send Aid to the People of Ukraine🇺🇦:
Over 1 million people have fled Ukraine in search of safety and refuge. While neighboring countries are opening their borders to many, the humanitarian need is overwhelming. If you are looking for a way to support the refugees, check this non-exhaustive list for organizations who are on the front lines of assistance.

Free at-⁠home COVID-⁠19 tests: https://www.covidtests.gov
Every home in the U.S. can soon order 4 free at-⁠home COVID-⁠19 tests. The tests will be completely free—there are no shipping costs and you don’t need to enter a credit card number. Ordering begins January 19: Click here to order your tests.

LA County’s Guaranteed Income Program is launching!
Eligible residents who are selected will receive $1,000 a month to help them financially breathe a bit easier.
APPLICATIONS START MARCH 31, 2022
For more details, visit breathe.lacounty.gov or respira.lacounty.gov

3 Levels of Resources for Renters and Landlord Assistance
LA: https://www.stayhousedla.org/ or call 1-888-694-0040
California: https://housing.ca.gov/ or call 833-430-2122, Applications close March 31st!
Federal: Federal Rental Assistance Program

Sliding Scale Therapy at the Maple Center
As Ashley mentioned last week, the Maple Center is a great place to start if you want to find resources for mental health. They do therapy on an income based sliding scale, and are very respectful and caring people. https://www.maple4counseling.org/

Food Equity
1 in 10 residents struggles with food insecurity. LA County has convened the Food Equity Roundtable to address systemic inequities in our food system. Govt, philanthropy & nonprofit leaders will soon issue a blueprint for change. Have ideas? Email lafoodequityroundtable@gmail.com

Support The Ending PUSHOUT Act
This summer, many United Methodist Women members and friends all across the country participated in the Mission U study of Pushout: The Criminalization of Black Girls in Schools by Dr. Monique Morris. We learned about the extreme racial disparities in discipline impacting Black girls. Addressing the deep roots of intersecting oppressions targeting Black girls is complex and long-term work. There is no simple one-and-done fix. But we can have an impact. One way we can help make change is by showing our support for an important federal bill, The Ending PUSHOUT Act, and by encouraging our loved ones to join us in action.

The Ending PUSHOUT Act of 2021 (H.R.2248): 

  • creates a $2.5 billion fund to incentivize schools and states to abandon unfair and discriminatory disciplinary policies and practices that push children of color out of the classroom; 

  • strengthens civil rights monitoring and enforcement; 

  • and establishes a task force to address school pushout, with particular attention to the needs of girls of color. 

Participating states and schools would be supported to invest in restorative practices, trauma-informed care, counselors, social workers and mental health professionals. Funds could not be used for police in schools. Please join us in supporting The Ending PUSHOUT Act. Already taken action in support of this bill? Multiply your impact by asking three friends to join you in taking action on this campaign.

Winter Shelters are open 11/1-3/31.
The Winter Shelter Program provides a warm place to sleep and access to supportive services to our unsheltered neighbors. If you or someone you know needs shelter visit LAHSA.org/winter-shelter or call 1 (800) 548-6047.

GreenFaith: Lauren K wanted to share this interfaith climate change group to pass along if anyone at church is interested: From coast to coast; continent to continent, our message is crystal clear: Our faiths call for an end to climate destruction and a sustainable and just future for all. https://greenfaith.org/

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

Vaccines:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Joys and Concerns: We believe that the best way to bear our burdens is to share them with one another. You are invited to share your joys and concerns so that our community can hold these things in our hearts as we lift them to God together. 

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

Scripture: Luke 24:1-12, NRSV

But on the first day of the week, at early dawn, they came to the tomb, taking the spices that they had prepared. They found the stone rolled away from the tomb, but when they went in, they did not find the body.While they were perplexed about this, suddenly two men in dazzling clothes stood beside them. The women were terrified and bowed their faces to the ground, but the men said to them, “Why do you look for the living among the dead? He is not here, but has risen. Remember how he told you, while he was still in Galilee, that the Son of Man must be handed over to sinners, and be crucified, and on the third day rise again.”Then they remembered his words, and returning from the tomb, they told all this to the eleven and to all the rest. Now it was Mary Magdalene, Joanna, Mary the mother of James, and the other women with them who told this to the apostles. But these words seemed to them an idle tale, and they did not believe them. But Peter got up and ran to the tomb; stooping and looking in, he saw the linen cloths by themselves; then he went home, amazed at what had happened.

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

Easter Sermon: Why Do You Look For the Living Among the Dead? - 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.

Reception of New Member: Elaine Livingston

ALL: We give thanks for all that God has already given you and we welcome you in Christian love.
As members together with you in the Body of Christ, we renew our covenant faithfully to participate in the ministries of the church by our prayers, presence, gifts, service, and witness, that in everything, God may be glorified.

MUSIC DURING OFFERING AND 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. 

Hallelujah!

Donate

Order of Worship for the Easter Sunrise Service

GATHERING IN DARKNESS AND SILENCE

CHIMING OF THE HOUR           

BREAKING THE DAWN Remain/Hallelujah Chorus - El Dorado

GREETING AND INTRODUCTION   
Grace to you from Jesus Christ, who was and is, and is to come.
Beloved, our Savior Jesus Christ has passed from death to life.
Hear the word of God: In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.
In the Word was life and the life was the light of all people.
The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.   

BLESSING OF THE NEW FIRE                                                       
Eternal God, giver of light and life, bless this new flame that by its radiance and warmth we may respond to your love and grace, and be set free from all that separates us from you and from each other; through Jesus Christ, the Sun of Righteousness. Amen.

LIGHTING OF THE PASCHAL CANDLE                  
ONE: May the light of Christ, rising in glory, banish all darkness from our hearts and minds. Christ is our light!  
MANY: Alleluia! Thanks be to God!          

OPENING HYMN: Christ the Lord is Risen Today - El Dorado
            
*GOSPEL LESSON: John 20:1-18
Early on the first day of the week, while it was still dark, Mary Magdalene came to the tomb and saw that the stone had been removed from the tomb. So she ran and went to Simon Peter and the other disciple, the one whom Jesus loved, and said to them, ‘They have taken the Lord out of the tomb, and we do not know where they have laid him.’ Then Peter and the other disciple set out and went towards the tomb. The two were running together, but the other disciple outran Peter and reached the tomb first. He bent down to look in and saw the linen wrappings lying there, but he did not go in. Then Simon Peter came, following him, and went into the tomb. He saw the linen wrappings lying there, and the cloth that had been on Jesus’ head, not lying with the linen wrappings but rolled up in a place by itself. Then the other disciple, who reached the tomb first, also went in, and he saw and believed; for as yet they did not understand the scripture, that he must rise from the dead. Then the disciples returned to their homes.

But Mary stood weeping outside the tomb. As she wept, she bent over to look* into the tomb; and she saw two angels in white, sitting where the body of Jesus had been lying, one at the head and the other at the feet.They said to her, ‘Woman, why are you weeping?’ She said to them, ‘They have taken away my Lord, and I do not know where they have laid him.’When she had said this, she turned round and saw Jesus standing there, but she did not know that it was Jesus. Jesus said to her, ‘Woman, why are you weeping? For whom are you looking?’ Supposing him to be the gardener, she said to him, ‘Sir, if you have carried him away, tell me where you have laid him, and I will take him away.’ Jesus said to her, ‘Mary!’ She turned and said to him in Hebrew,* ‘Rabbouni!’ (which means Teacher). Jesus said to her, ‘Do not hold on to me, because I have not yet ascended to the Father. But go to my brothers and say to them, “I am ascending to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.” ’ Mary Magdalene went and announced to the disciples, ‘I have seen the Lord’; and she told them that he had said these things to her.                

EASTER EXAMEN

St. Ignatius created the Examen to be a very short prayer which can be prayed at any time. In the Examen, we review our recent past to find God and his blessings in our daily life.
Ignatius would say that the Examen should be the most important moment of our day, because this moment affects every other moment.

  • Take a deep breath and hold it for a moment - taking in God’s love, light and strength - and let it out slowly, exhaling any worries, cares or fears.

  • Invite the Holy Spirit to help you see Easter as God sees it.

  • This year is different. What was normal a year ago is no longer so. Even as a vaccine is more readily available, we are still self-isolating and keeping ourselves from work, family and friends.

  • Think about this Easter season, the Resurrection that we are celebrating. Take a moment to recognize how God has been present in the days since last Easter Sunday.

  • Think about the things you have experienced over this past year which you are grateful for.
    Be specific; it can be time spent with your family, new ways to connect with friends over social media, something special you’ve discovered, warmer weather, sunshine, spring flowers beginning to blossom. Recognize the experience a Resurrection experience. Take a moment to thank God for your gift.

  • As you pay attention to your feelings, ask yourself where God seems to be present in your Easter-Resurrection experience.
    Did you experience God’s love, forgiveness or mercy?
    What graces do you recognize in your Easter experience?

  • Now take a moment and review where you may not have recognized God’s presence in your Easter-Resurrection experience.
    Think deeply about this moment when you saw the need for love and didn’t feel that love.
    What was the behavior that may have distanced you from God in the moment?
    Ask for forgiveness and the grace to recognize God’s presence in all things.

  • Finally, think about what you are hopeful for and what you are looking forward to as the Easter season continues to unfold.
    Offer these to God and ask for God’s blessing on your hopes and dreams.
    Invite God to journey with you throughout the rest of the Easter season and beyond.

  • Let us pray the Lord's Prayer in the language in which you learned it first and best:

    Our Father in heaven,

    Hallowed be your Name.

    Your Kingdom come.

    Your will be done

    on earth, as it is in heaven.

    Give us today our daily bread.

    Forgive us our sins,

    as we forgive those who sin against us.

    Save us from the time of trial,

    and deliver us from evil.

    For the kingdom,

    the power,

    and the glory are yours

    Now and forever.

    Amen.

                                       
RENEWAL OF BAPTISM VOWS                                  
Sisters and Brothers, on this day, when we celebrate the rising of Christ from death, let us gather at the water to celebrate our baptism, which is the sign and seal of our new life in Christ, by saying the promises that were made at our baptism…Do you renounce the spiritual forces of evil?
MANY: I renounce the spiritual forces of evil. 
ONE: Do you believe in God? 
MANY: I believe in God.
ONE: Do you believe in Jesus Christ? 
MANY: I believe in Jesus Christ. 
ONE: Do you believe in the Holy Spirit? 
MANY: I believe in the Holy Spirit.

Closing: O Happy Day/My Sweet Lord – El Dorado

PROCLAMATION AND SENDING FORTH        
One: Go to the world! Go into all the earth! Go preach the cross where Christ renews life’s worth, baptizing as a sign of our rebirth.  
           

 Christ is risen!                         Christos anesti!            
Christ is risen, indeed!         Alethios anesti!             
Alleluia!                                   Alleluia!            
Alleluia!                                 Alleluia!

Join us for Easter Worship at 10:30 am PDT on FB/YouTube/Twitter or IN PERSON at 1020 S. Flower Street, Los Angeles, CA 90015

Order of Worship for Sunday, March 27, 2022: LENT IV - Finding Our Hallelujahs: A Rule of Life for Relationships

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

DISCIPLE 2 BIBLE STUDY:

Maundy Thursday, April 14 at 11:30 am: In-Person Class and Last Supper at El Cholo

In-Person Worship Resuming on Sunday April 3rd!

The Church Council, our Worship Team, and Senior Pastor Mandy are working on plans to resume in person worship on Sunday April 3rd. We will keep you updated as plans progress.

Regardless of when we do reopen in-person, we will be maintaining our strong on ONLINE worship presence and forming a hybrid worship experience since we are blessed by those across the country including in CO, Il, GA, TN, NC and across the world who join us each Sunday in fellowship.

LENTEN SERMON SERIES: March 2 - April 3 - FINDING OUR HALLELUJAHS

MARCH 27: LENT IV - RELATIONSHIPS - The Prodigal
APRIL 3: LENT V - RESOURCES - Give Freely What You Have (In Person Worship Resumes!)





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

United Methodist Resources:

Texas Methodist Foundation Podcast - Episode 5: Prophetic Imagination in a Parking Lot

Rev. Mandy McDow was featured on the Texas Methodist Foundation podcast this week! The topic was “Igniting Imaginagion,” and the story of LA First was shared in depth as a model and testimony for other congregations as they imagine their future in partnership with God. Our reality forces a posture of constant discernment: God, what is the difference you would have us make in this neighborhood in this season?

The episode can be found on the Wesleyan Investive website here: https://www.wesleyaninvestive.org/igniting-imagination-podcast-season-4-episode-5.
It is also available on the TMF website and both organizations’ social media accounts (WI) | (TMF).

The Seven Last Words of Christ on the Cross will be presented by the BMCR/Ebony Prophets (including representatives from St. Mark UMC, Westwood UMC, Inglewood UMC, and Crenshaw UMC), on Good Friday, April 15th at Noon on Zoom.

Summer UMC Camp Registration Now Open for School Children of All Ages
This summer, come outside and explore the universe of God at California-Pacific Conference Summer Camp 2022: Faith, Friends, and Fun at Cedar Glen, Lazy W Ranch, and Camp Wrightwood!  Cal-Pac Camps is a Christ-centered organization that focuses on the spiritual development of our campers. We follow three simple rules of Methodist living: Do Good, Reduce Harm, and Love God. We embody Christian community through worship, small groups, keynote speakers, prayer stations, and traditional camp fun! 

A Quick Guide to Overt and Covert Racism shared by the UMC's Commision on Race and Religion

The 38th Annual Session of the California-Pacific Conference will be held over four non-consecutive days and will feature in-person and online options for participants. This is a way of creating space and opportunity for connection and safety for clergy and laity.
Legislative sections (June 7) and business sessions (June 15) will be held online via Zoom; Worship, ordination mission opportunities, and other celebrations (June 17 & 18) will be held in person in Costa Mesa, CA. All plenary and business sessions will be livestreamed.
Two informational flyers have been made available for download: Save The Date (image file), When is Annual Conference 2022 (PDF).

Registration will open April 1, 2022.

Shaping a Western Jurisdiction Where Love Lives
April 1, 2022 California 5:30 PM PDT
RSVP Deadline: March 31, 2022
RSVP Link: https://bit.ly/3N2LIvb
The California-Pacific Conference has lived and served as an inclusive church for all of God’s children. Now, the jurisdiction needs our collective input on how we can create a strong, effective structure where all of God’s children truly belong. This is an opportunity for our Conference members to share our values with allies and influence the future structure of the church where love lives.

Regardless of what happens at the general church level, we in the west need an actualization of our mission and a regional structure that will best address our needs. We invite you to give input on what the church in the Western Jurisdiction should look like.

General Conference Postponed until 2024
As the pandemic continues and the wait time for visas stretches to over two years in some countries, the Commission on the General Conference announced this week that the 2020 General Conference cannot be held in 2022 due to COVID-related and governmental policies/constraints.

Bishop Grant Hagiya issued a statement which assures that the California-Pacific Annual Conference will continue our commitment to inclusion across the wide diversity of our area and peoples, including LGBTQ+ siblings. This commitment runs deep in our conference and is increasingly widespread in our United Methodist connection. More than 1,000 people have already signed on to a statement calling us, the church, to resist harm against LGBTQ+ people and supporters, especially in this time as we continue to await General Conference. The commitment to doing no harm remains a deep value that will be upheld as we fulfil our mission.

  • General Conference is the top policy-making body of The United Methodist Church. The assembly typically meets at the beginning of each quadrennium to consider revisions to church law, as well as adopt resolutions on current moral, social, public policy and economic issues. It also approves plans and budgets for church-wide programs for the next four years.

Call to Prayer and Support for Tonga
Please join Bishop Grant J. Hagiya in your regular prayers for our Tongan siblings and for the physical island itself. We ask God to watch over the Tongan people, animals, and land. We ask God to move us to send relief in the form of donations as well as these prayers. May the Island of Tonga know that we hold them in our daily prayers! Donations for relief can be sent to the California-Pacific Conference at P.O. Box 6006, Pasadena, CA 91102-6006. Please mark any donations with “Tongan Relief” on your check or electronic offering here.

The 2022 GBHEM Methodist scholarship app is now open! The deadline is March 31st. They gave Lauren a scholarship last year, and it really helped her out. She wants to pass this along to all students. https://www.gbhem.org/loans-scholarships/scholarships/apply/

COMMUNITY RESOURCES:

Ways to Send Aid to the People of Ukraine🇺🇦:
Over 1 million people have fled Ukraine in search of safety and refuge. While neighboring countries are opening their borders to many, the humanitarian need is overwhelming. If you are looking for a way to support the refugees, check this non-exhaustive list for organizations who are on the front lines of assistance.

Free at-⁠home COVID-⁠19 tests: https://www.covidtests.gov
Every home in the U.S. can soon order 4 free at-⁠home COVID-⁠19 tests. The tests will be completely free—there are no shipping costs and you don’t need to enter a credit card number. Ordering begins January 19: Click here to order your tests.

LA County’s Guaranteed Income Program is launching!
Eligible residents who are selected will receive $1,000 a month to help them financially breathe a bit easier.
APPLICATIONS START MARCH 31, 2022
For more details, visit breathe.lacounty.gov or respira.lacounty.gov

3 Levels of Resources for Renters and Landlord Assistance
LA: https://www.stayhousedla.org/ or call 1-888-694-0040
California: https://housing.ca.gov/ or call 833-430-2122, Applications close March 31st!
Federal: Federal Rental Assistance Program

Sliding Scale Therapy at the Maple Center
As Ashley mentioned last week, the Maple Center is a great place to start if you want to find resources for mental health. They do therapy on an income based sliding scale, and are very respectful and caring people. https://www.maple4counseling.org/

Food Equity
1 in 10 residents struggles with food insecurity. LA County has convened the Food Equity Roundtable to address systemic inequities in our food system. Govt, philanthropy & nonprofit leaders will soon issue a blueprint for change. Have ideas? Email lafoodequityroundtable@gmail.com

Support The Ending PUSHOUT Act
This summer, many United Methodist Women members and friends all across the country participated in the Mission U study of Pushout: The Criminalization of Black Girls in Schools by Dr. Monique Morris. We learned about the extreme racial disparities in discipline impacting Black girls. Addressing the deep roots of intersecting oppressions targeting Black girls is complex and long-term work. There is no simple one-and-done fix. But we can have an impact. One way we can help make change is by showing our support for an important federal bill, The Ending PUSHOUT Act, and by encouraging our loved ones to join us in action.

The Ending PUSHOUT Act of 2021 (H.R.2248): 

  • creates a $2.5 billion fund to incentivize schools and states to abandon unfair and discriminatory disciplinary policies and practices that push children of color out of the classroom; 

  • strengthens civil rights monitoring and enforcement; 

  • and establishes a task force to address school pushout, with particular attention to the needs of girls of color. 

Participating states and schools would be supported to invest in restorative practices, trauma-informed care, counselors, social workers and mental health professionals. Funds could not be used for police in schools. Please join us in supporting The Ending PUSHOUT Act. Already taken action in support of this bill? Multiply your impact by asking three friends to join you in taking action on this campaign.

Winter Shelters are open 11/1-3/31.
The Winter Shelter Program provides a warm place to sleep and access to supportive services to our unsheltered neighbors. If you or someone you know needs shelter visit LAHSA.org/winter-shelter or call 1 (800) 548-6047.

GreenFaith: Lauren K wanted to share this interfaith climate change group to pass along if anyone at church is interested: From coast to coast; continent to continent, our message is crystal clear: Our faiths call for an end to climate destruction and a sustainable and just future for all. https://greenfaith.org/

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

Vaccines:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

CALL TO PRAYER: Hallelujah - El Dorado, featuring Rachel Rhodes-Wickett Gipson

Joys and Concerns: We believe that the best way to bear our burdens is to share them with one another. You are invited to share your joys and concerns so that our community can hold these things in our hearts as we lift them to God together. 

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

Scripture: Luke 15:1-3, 11b-32, NRSV - The Parable of the Barren Fig Tree

The Parable of the Lost Sheep

Now all the tax-collectors and sinners were coming near to listen to him.And the Pharisees and the scribes were grumbling and saying, ‘This fellow welcomes sinners and eats with them.’

So he told them this parable:

The Parable of the Prodigal and His Brother

Then Jesus said, ‘There was a man who had two sons. The younger of them said to his father, “Father, give me the share of the property that will belong to me.” So he divided his property between them. A few days later the younger son gathered all he had and travelled to a distant country, and there he squandered his property in dissolute living. When he had spent everything, a severe famine took place throughout that country, and he began to be in need. So he went and hired himself out to one of the citizens of that country, who sent him to his fields to feed the pigs. He would gladly have filled himself with the pods that the pigs were eating; and no one gave him anything. But when he came to himself he said, “How many of my father’s hired hands have bread enough and to spare, but here I am dying of hunger! I will get up and go to my father, and I will say to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you; I am no longer worthy to be called your son; treat me like one of your hired hands.’ ” So he set off and went to his father. But while he was still far off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion; he ran and put his arms around him and kissed him. Then the son said to him, “Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you; I am no longer worthy to be called your son.” But the father said to his slaves, “Quickly, bring out a robe—the best one—and put it on him; put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet. And get the fatted calf and kill it, and let us eat and celebrate; for this son of mine was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found!” And they began to celebrate.

‘Now his elder son was in the field; and when he came and approached the house, he heard music and dancing. He called one of the slaves and asked what was going on. He replied, “Your brother has come, and your father has killed the fatted calf, because he has got him back safe and sound.” Then he became angry and refused to go in. His father came out and began to plead with him. But he answered his father, “Listen! For all these years I have been working like a slave for you, and I have never disobeyed your command; yet you have never given me even a young goat so that I might celebrate with my friends. But when this son of yours came back, who has devoured your property with prostitutes, you killed the fatted calf for him!” Then the father said to him, “Son, you are always with me, and all that is mine is yours. But we had to celebrate and rejoice, because this brother of yours was dead and has come to life; he was lost and has been found.”’

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

Sermon: LENT III: FINDING OUR HALLELUJAHS - Creating a Rule of Life for Work - Nurturing What Bears Fruit - Rev. Mandy McDow

Go Deeper
If youd like to go deeper and have more companionship and guidance as you create your rule of life, you might consider the course from Sacred Ordinary Days, Creating a Rule of Life: Embodying Wholeness in Every Season.

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: How Firm A Foundation - 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, March 20, 2022: LENT III - Finding Our Hallelujahs: A Rule of Life for Work - Nurture What Bears Fruit

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

Hallelujah - El Dorado, featuring Rachel Rhodes-Wickett Gipson
originally written and recorded by HAIM

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

DISCIPLE 2 BIBLE STUDY:

Maundy Thursday, April 14 at 5:30 pm: In-Person Class and Last Supper at El Cholo

Potential In-Person Worship Resuming on Sunday April 3rd!

The Church Council, our Worship Team, and Senior Pastor Mandy are working on plans to resume in person worship on Sunday April 3rd. We will keep you updated as plans progress.

Regardless of when we do reopen in-person, we will be maintaining our strong on ONLINE worship presence and forming a hybrid worship experience since we are blessed by those across the country including in CO, Il, GA, TN, NC and across the world who join us each Sunday in fellowship.

LENTEN SERMON SERIES: March 2 - April 3 - FINDING OUR HALLELUJAHS

MARCH 20: LENT III - WORK - Nurture What Bears Fruit
MARCH 27: LENT IV - RELATIONSHIPS - The Prodigal
APRIL 3: LENT V - RESOURCES - Give Freely What You Have (In Person Worship Resumes!)

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

United Methodist Resources:

Shaping a Western Jurisdiction Where Love Lives
April 1, 2022 California 5:30 PM PDT
RSVP Deadline: March 31, 2022
RSVP Link: https://bit.ly/3N2LIvb
The California-Pacific Conference has lived and served as an inclusive church for all of God’s children. Now, the jurisdiction needs our collective input on how we can create a strong, effective structure where all of God’s children truly belong. This is an opportunity for our Conference members to share our values with allies and influence the future structure of the church where love lives.

Regardless of what happens at the general church level, we in the west need an actualization of our mission and a regional structure that will best address our needs. We invite you to give input on what the church in the Western Jurisdiction should look like.

General Conference Postponed until 2024
As the pandemic continues and the wait time for visas stretches to over two years in some countries, the Commission on the General Conference announced this week that the 2020 General Conference cannot be held in 2022 due to COVID-related and governmental policies/constraints.

Bishop Grant Hagiya issued a statement which assures that the California-Pacific Annual Conference will continue our commitment to inclusion across the wide diversity of our area and peoples, including LGBTQ+ siblings. This commitment runs deep in our conference and is increasingly widespread in our United Methodist connection. More than 1,000 people have already signed on to a statement calling us, the church, to resist harm against LGBTQ+ people and supporters, especially in this time as we continue to await General Conference. The commitment to doing no harm remains a deep value that will be upheld as we fulfil our mission.

  • General Conference is the top policy-making body of The United Methodist Church. The assembly typically meets at the beginning of each quadrennium to consider revisions to church law, as well as adopt resolutions on current moral, social, public policy and economic issues. It also approves plans and budgets for church-wide programs for the next four years.

Call to Prayer and Support for Tonga
Please join Bishop Grant J. Hagiya in your regular prayers for our Tongan siblings and for the physical island itself. We ask God to watch over the Tongan people, animals, and land. We ask God to move us to send relief in the form of donations as well as these prayers. May the Island of Tonga know that we hold them in our daily prayers! Donations for relief can be sent to the California-Pacific Conference at P.O. Box 6006, Pasadena, CA 91102-6006. Please mark any donations with “Tongan Relief” on your check or electronic offering here.

The 2022 GBHEM Methodist scholarship app is now open! The deadline is March 24th. They gave Lauren a scholarship last year, and it really helped her out. She wants to pass this along to all students. https://www.gbhem.org/loans-scholarships/scholarships/apply/

Get insight into mental health issues
WesPath is offering two virtual seminars on mental health first aid will be offered on March 10 and 24. The free events will be led by Chris White, a hostage and crisis negotiator and mental health trainer: https://bit.ly/3GTfn6N

COMMUNITY RESOURCES:

Ways to Send Aid to the People of Ukraine🇺🇦:
Over 1 million people have fled Ukraine in search of safety and refuge. While neighboring countries are opening their borders to many, the humanitarian need is overwhelming. If you are looking for a way to support the refugees, check this non-exhaustive list for organizations who are on the front lines of assistance.

Free at-⁠home COVID-⁠19 tests: https://www.covidtests.gov
Every home in the U.S. can soon order 4 free at-⁠home COVID-⁠19 tests. The tests will be completely free—there are no shipping costs and you don’t need to enter a credit card number. Ordering begins January 19: Click here to order your tests.

LA County’s Guaranteed Income Program is launching!
Eligible residents who are selected will receive $1,000 a month to help them financially breathe a bit easier.
APPLICATIONS START MARCH 31, 2022
For more details, visit breathe.lacounty.gov or respira.lacounty.gov

3 Levels of Resources for Renters and Landlord Assistance
LA: https://www.stayhousedla.org/ or call 1-888-694-0040
California: https://housing.ca.gov/ or call 833-430-2122, Applications close March 31st!
Federal: Federal Rental Assistance Program

Did you know that you can check out computer bundles from the LA Public Library? Check out a Tech2Go computer bundle from the library for six months: lapl.me/CMiO9Eu

Sliding Scale Therapy at the Maple Center
As Ashley mentioned last week, the Maple Center is a great place to start if you want to find resources for mental health. They do therapy on an income based sliding scale, and are very respectful and caring people. https://www.maple4counseling.org/

Food Equity
1 in 10 residents struggles with food insecurity. LA County has convened the Food Equity Roundtable to address systemic inequities in our food system. Govt, philanthropy & nonprofit leaders will soon issue a blueprint for change. Have ideas? Email lafoodequityroundtable@gmail.com

Support The Ending PUSHOUT Act
This summer, many United Methodist Women members and friends all across the country participated in the Mission U study of Pushout: The Criminalization of Black Girls in Schools by Dr. Monique Morris. We learned about the extreme racial disparities in discipline impacting Black girls. Addressing the deep roots of intersecting oppressions targeting Black girls is complex and long-term work. There is no simple one-and-done fix. But we can have an impact. One way we can help make change is by showing our support for an important federal bill, The Ending PUSHOUT Act, and by encouraging our loved ones to join us in action.

The Ending PUSHOUT Act of 2021 (H.R.2248): 

  • creates a $2.5 billion fund to incentivize schools and states to abandon unfair and discriminatory disciplinary policies and practices that push children of color out of the classroom; 

  • strengthens civil rights monitoring and enforcement; 

  • and establishes a task force to address school pushout, with particular attention to the needs of girls of color. 

Participating states and schools would be supported to invest in restorative practices, trauma-informed care, counselors, social workers and mental health professionals. Funds could not be used for police in schools. Please join us in supporting The Ending PUSHOUT Act. Already taken action in support of this bill? Multiply your impact by asking three friends to join you in taking action on this campaign.

Winter Shelters are open 11/1-3/31.
The Winter Shelter Program provides a warm place to sleep and access to supportive services to our unsheltered neighbors. If you or someone you know needs shelter visit LAHSA.org/winter-shelter or call 1 (800) 548-6047.

GreenFaith: Lauren K wanted to share this interfaith climate change group to pass along if anyone at church is interested: From coast to coast; continent to continent, our message is crystal clear: Our faiths call for an end to climate destruction and a sustainable and just future for all. https://greenfaith.org/

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

Vaccines:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

CALL TO PRAYER: Come Ye Sinners - El Dorado

It is with sadness that we inform you of the death of Rev. Dr. Dan Raymond Kennedy, a retired member and former District Superintendent of the California-Pacific Conference, on March 9, 2022.

Rev. Kennedy is survived by his spouse, Joan, and children: Debbie and Marie.

Arrangements are pending.

Condolences may be sent to:

Mrs. Joan Kennedy
4338 Blackthorne Ave.
Long Beach, CA 90808

Joys and Concerns: We believe that the best way to bear our burdens is to share them with one another. You are invited to share your joys and concerns so that our community can hold these things in our hearts as we lift them to God together. 

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

Scripture: Luke 13:1-9, NRSV - The Parable of the Barren Fig Tree

At that very time there were some present who told him about the Galileans whose blood Pilate had mingled with their sacrifices. He asked them, ‘Do you think that because these Galileans suffered in this way they were worse sinners than all other Galileans? No, I tell you; but unless you repent, you will all perish as they did. Or those eighteen who were killed when the tower of Siloam fell on them—do you think that they were worse offenders than all the others living in Jerusalem? No, I tell you; but unless you repent, you will all perish just as they did.’

Then he told this parable: ‘A man had a fig tree planted in his vineyard; and he came looking for fruit on it and found none. So he said to the gardener, “See here! For three years I have come looking for fruit on this fig tree, and still I find none. Cut it down! Why should it be wasting the soil?” He replied, “Sir, let it alone for one more year, until I dig round it and put manure on it. If it bears fruit next year, well and good; but if not, you can cut it down.”’

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

Sermon: LENT III: FINDING OUR HALLELUJAHS - Creating a Rule of Life for Work - Nurturing What Bears Fruit - Rev. Mandy McDow

Go Deeper
If youd like to go deeper and have more companionship and guidance as you create your rule of life, you might consider the course from Sacred Ordinary Days, Creating a Rule of Life: Embodying Wholeness in Every Season.

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: Sowing the Seeds of Love - El Dorado

Benediction Remember:
God is with you,
God is for you, 
God refuses to be God without you. 
And may all of God’s people say: Amen. 

Virtual Coffee Hour Begins now!
Immediately following worship on Zoom

Donate

Order of Worship for Sunday, March 13, 2022: LENT II - Finding Our Hallelujahs: A Rule of Life for the Home

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

Blest Be the Tie That Binds - 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

DISCIPLE 2 BIBLE STUDY:

Maundy Thursday, April 14 at 5:30 pm:

In-Person Class and Last Supper at El Cholo

Potential In-Person Worship Resuming on Sunday April 3rd!

The Church Council, our Worship Team, and Senior Pastor Mandy are working on plans to resume in person worship on Sunday April 3rd. We will keep you updated as plans progress.

Regardless of when we do reopen in-person, we will be maintaining our strong on ONLINE worship presence and forming a hybrid worship experience since we are blessed by those across the country including in CO, Il, GA, TN, NC and across the world who join us each Sunday in fellowship.

LENTEN SERMON SERIES: March 2 - April 3 - FINDING OUR HALLELUJAHS
MARCH 13: LENT II - HOME - Like a Hen Gathering Her Brood
MARCH 20: LENT III - WORK - Nurture What Bears Fruit
MARCH 27: LENT IV - RELATIONSHIPS - The Prodigal
APRIL 3: LENT V - RESOURCES - Give Freely What You Have (In Person Worship Resumes!)

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

United Methodist Resources:

General Conference Postponed until 2024
As the pandemic continues and the wait time for visas stretches to over two years in some countries, the Commission on the General Conference announced this week that the 2020 General Conference cannot be held in 2022 due to COVID-related and governmental policies/constraints.

Bishop Grant Hagiya issued a statement which assures that the California-Pacific Annual Conference will continue our commitment to inclusion across the wide diversity of our area and peoples, including LGBTQ+ siblings. This commitment runs deep in our conference and is increasingly widespread in our United Methodist connection. More than 1,000 people have already signed on to a statement calling us, the church, to resist harm against LGBTQ+ people and supporters, especially in this time as we continue to await General Conference. The commitment to doing no harm remains a deep value that will be upheld as we fulfil our mission.

  • General Conference is the top policy-making body of The United Methodist Church. The assembly typically meets at the beginning of each quadrennium to consider revisions to church law, as well as adopt resolutions on current moral, social, public policy and economic issues. It also approves plans and budgets for church-wide programs for the next four years.

Call to Prayer and Support for Tonga
Please join Bishop Grant J. Hagiya in your regular prayers for our Tongan siblings and for the physical island itself. We ask God to watch over the Tongan people, animals, and land. We ask God to move us to send relief in the form of donations as well as these prayers. May the Island of Tonga know that we hold them in our daily prayers! Donations for relief can be sent to the California-Pacific Conference at P.O. Box 6006, Pasadena, CA 91102-6006. Please mark any donations with “Tongan Relief” on your check or electronic offering here.

The 2022 GBHEM Methodist scholarship app is now open! The deadline is March 24th. They gave Lauren a scholarship last year, and it really helped her out. She wants to pass this along to all students. https://www.gbhem.org/loans-scholarships/scholarships/apply/

Get insight into mental health issues
WesPath is offering two virtual seminars on mental health first aid will be offered on March 10 and 24. The free events will be led by Chris White, a hostage and crisis negotiator and mental health trainer: https://bit.ly/3GTfn6N

COMMUNITY RESOURCES:

Ways to Send Aid to the People of Ukraine🇺🇦:
Over 1 million people have fled Ukraine in search of safety and refuge. While neighboring countries are opening their borders to many, the humanitarian need is overwhelming. If you are looking for a way to support the refugees, check this non-exhaustive list for organizations who are on the front lines of assistance.

Free at-⁠home COVID-⁠19 tests: https://www.covidtests.gov
Every home in the U.S. can soon order 4 free at-⁠home COVID-⁠19 tests. The tests will be completely free—there are no shipping costs and you don’t need to enter a credit card number. Ordering begins January 19: Click here to order your tests.

Sliding Scale Therapy at the Maple Center
As Ashley mentioned last week, the Maple Center is a great place to start if you want to find resources for mental health. They do therapy on an income based sliding scale, and are very respectful and caring people. https://www.maple4counseling.org/

Food Equity
1 in 10 residents struggles with food insecurity. LA County has convened the Food Equity Roundtable to address systemic inequities in our food system. Govt, philanthropy & nonprofit leaders will soon issue a blueprint for change. Have ideas? Email lafoodequityroundtable@gmail.com

Support The Ending PUSHOUT Act
This summer, many United Methodist Women members and friends all across the country participated in the Mission U study of Pushout: The Criminalization of Black Girls in Schools by Dr. Monique Morris. We learned about the extreme racial disparities in discipline impacting Black girls. Addressing the deep roots of intersecting oppressions targeting Black girls is complex and long-term work. There is no simple one-and-done fix. But we can have an impact. One way we can help make change is by showing our support for an important federal bill, The Ending PUSHOUT Act, and by encouraging our loved ones to join us in action.

The Ending PUSHOUT Act of 2021 (H.R.2248): 

  • creates a $2.5 billion fund to incentivize schools and states to abandon unfair and discriminatory disciplinary policies and practices that push children of color out of the classroom; 

  • strengthens civil rights monitoring and enforcement; 

  • and establishes a task force to address school pushout, with particular attention to the needs of girls of color. 

Participating states and schools would be supported to invest in restorative practices, trauma-informed care, counselors, social workers and mental health professionals. Funds could not be used for police in schools. Please join us in supporting The Ending PUSHOUT Act. Already taken action in support of this bill? Multiply your impact by asking three friends to join you in taking action on this campaign.

Winter Shelters are open 11/1-3/31.
The Winter Shelter Program provides a warm place to sleep and access to supportive services to our unsheltered neighbors. If you or someone you know needs shelter visit LAHSA.org/winter-shelter or call 1 (800) 548-6047.

GreenFaith: Lauren K wanted to share this interfaith climate change group to pass along if anyone at church is interested: From coast to coast; continent to continent, our message is crystal clear: Our faiths call for an end to climate destruction and a sustainable and just future for all. https://greenfaith.org/

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

Vaccines:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

CALL TO PRAYER: Sweet, Sweet Spirit - El Dorado

Joys and Concerns: We believe that the best way to bear our burdens is to share them with one another. You are invited to share your joys and concerns so that our community can hold these things in our hearts as we lift them to God together. 

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

Scripture: Luke 13:31-35, NRSV - The Lament over Jerusalem

At that very hour some Pharisees came and said to him, ‘Get away from here, for Herod wants to kill you.’ He said to them, ‘Go and tell that fox for me, “Listen, I am casting out demons and performing cures today and tomorrow, and on the third day I finish my work. Yet today, tomorrow, and the next day I must be on my way, because it is impossible for a prophet to be killed away from Jerusalem.” Jerusalem, Jerusalem, the city that kills the prophets and stones those who are sent to it! How often have I desired to gather your children together as a hen gathers her brood under her wings, and you were not willing! See, your house is left to you. And I tell you, you will not see me until the time comes when you say, “Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord.” 

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

Sermon: LENT II: FINDING OUR HALLELUJAHS - Creating a Rule of Life for the Home - Rev. Mandy McDow

Go Deeper
If youd like to go deeper and have more companionship and guidance as you create your rule of life, you might consider the course from Sacred Ordinary Days, Creating a Rule of Life: Embodying Wholeness in Every Season.

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.

SONG OF REFLECTION: Crossfire - El Dorado, featuring Rachel Gipson
originally written and recorded by HAIM

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. 

Donate

Order of Worship for Sunday, March 6, 2022: LENT I - Finding Our Hallelujahs: A Rule of Life for the Body

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

For What It's Worth - El Dorado

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

You are invited to greet one another in the live stream chat on Instagram, YouTube, and Facebook. 


ANNOUNCEMENTS

DISCIPLE 2 BIBLE STUDY: Monday at 5:30 PM via Zoom - Monday, March 7 - Chapter 31

Maundy Thursday, March 14 at 5:30 pm: In-Person Class and Last Supper

Potential In-Person Worship Resuming on Sunday April 3rd!

The Church Council, our Worship Team, and Senior Pastor Mandy are working on plans to resume in person worship on Sunday April 3rd. We will keep you updated as plans progress.

Regardless of when we do reopen in-person, we will be maintaining our strong on ONLINE worship presence and forming a hybrid worship experience since we are blessed by those across the country including in CO, Il, GA, TN, NC and across the world who join us each Sunday in fellowship.

LENTEN SERMON SERIES: March 2 - April 3 - FINDING OUR HALLELUJAHS

MARCH 2: Ash Wednesday - MIND - Repentance
MARCH 6: LENT I - BODY - Fasting & Temptation
MARCH 13: LENT II - HOME - Like a Hen Gathering Her Brood
MARCH 20: LENT III - WORK - Nurture What Bears Fruit
MARCH 27: LENT IV - RELATIONSHIPS - The Prodigal
APRIL 3: LENT V - RESOURCES - Give Freely What You Have (In Person Worship Resumes!)

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

United Methodist Resources:

General Conference Postponed until 2024
As the pandemic continues and the wait time for visas stretches to over two years in some countries, the Commission on the General Conference announced this week that the 2020 General Conference cannot be held in 2022 due to COVID-related and governmental policies/constraints.

Bishop Grant Hagiya issued a statement which assures that the California-Pacific Annual Conference will continue our commitment to inclusion across the wide diversity of our area and peoples, including LGBTQ+ siblings. This commitment runs deep in our conference and is increasingly widespread in our United Methodist connection. More than 1,000 people have already signed on to a statement calling us, the church, to resist harm against LGBTQ+ people and supporters, especially in this time as we continue to await General Conference. The commitment to doing no harm remains a deep value that will be upheld as we fulfil our mission.

  • General Conference is the top policy-making body of The United Methodist Church. The assembly typically meets at the beginning of each quadrennium to consider revisions to church law, as well as adopt resolutions on current moral, social, public policy and economic issues. It also approves plans and budgets for church-wide programs for the next four years.

Call to Prayer and Support for Tonga
Please join Bishop Grant J. Hagiya in your regular prayers for our Tongan siblings and for the physical island itself. We ask God to watch over the Tongan people, animals, and land. We ask God to move us to send relief in the form of donations as well as these prayers. May the Island of Tonga know that we hold them in our daily prayers! Donations for relief can be sent to the California-Pacific Conference at P.O. Box 6006, Pasadena, CA 91102-6006. Please mark any donations with “Tongan Relief” on your check or electronic offering here.

The 2022 GBHEM Methodist scholarship app is now open! The deadline is March 24th. They gave Lauren a scholarship last year, and it really helped her out. She wants to pass this along to all students. https://www.gbhem.org/loans-scholarships/scholarships/apply/

Get insight into mental health issues
WesPath is offering two virtual seminars on mental health first aid will be offered on March 10 and 24. The free events will be led by Chris White, a hostage and crisis negotiator and mental health trainer: https://bit.ly/3GTfn6N

COMMUNITY RESOURCES:

Ways to Send Aid to the People of Ukraine🇺🇦:
Over 1 million people have fled Ukraine in search of safety and refuge. While neighboring countries are opening their borders to many, the humanitarian need is overwhelming. If you are looking for a way to support the refugees, check this non-exhaustive list for organizations who are on the front lines of assistance.

Free at-⁠home COVID-⁠19 tests: https://www.covidtests.gov
Every home in the U.S. can soon order 4 free at-⁠home COVID-⁠19 tests. The tests will be completely free—there are no shipping costs and you don’t need to enter a credit card number. Ordering begins January 19: Click here to order your tests.

Sliding Scale Therapy at the Maple Center
As Ashley mentioned last week, the Maple Center is a great place to start if you want to find resources for mental health. They do therapy on an income based sliding scale, and are very respectful and caring people. https://www.maple4counseling.org/

Food Equity
1 in 10 residents struggles with food insecurity. LA County has convened the Food Equity Roundtable to address systemic inequities in our food system. Govt, philanthropy & nonprofit leaders will soon issue a blueprint for change. Have ideas? Email lafoodequityroundtable@gmail.com

Support The Ending PUSHOUT Act
This summer, many United Methodist Women members and friends all across the country participated in the Mission U study of Pushout: The Criminalization of Black Girls in Schools by Dr. Monique Morris. We learned about the extreme racial disparities in discipline impacting Black girls. Addressing the deep roots of intersecting oppressions targeting Black girls is complex and long-term work. There is no simple one-and-done fix. But we can have an impact. One way we can help make change is by showing our support for an important federal bill, The Ending PUSHOUT Act, and by encouraging our loved ones to join us in action.

The Ending PUSHOUT Act of 2021 (H.R.2248): 

  • creates a $2.5 billion fund to incentivize schools and states to abandon unfair and discriminatory disciplinary policies and practices that push children of color out of the classroom; 

  • strengthens civil rights monitoring and enforcement; 

  • and establishes a task force to address school pushout, with particular attention to the needs of girls of color. 

Participating states and schools would be supported to invest in restorative practices, trauma-informed care, counselors, social workers and mental health professionals. Funds could not be used for police in schools. Please join us in supporting The Ending PUSHOUT Act. Already taken action in support of this bill? Multiply your impact by asking three friends to join you in taking action on this campaign.

Winter Shelters are open 11/1-3/31.
The Winter Shelter Program provides a warm place to sleep and access to supportive services to our unsheltered neighbors. If you or someone you know needs shelter visit LAHSA.org/winter-shelter or call 1 (800) 548-6047.

GreenFaith: Lauren K wanted to share this interfaith climate change group to pass along if anyone at church is interested: From coast to coast; continent to continent, our message is crystal clear: Our faiths call for an end to climate destruction and a sustainable and just future for all. https://greenfaith.org/

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

Vaccines:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

CALL TO PRAYER: Great Are You, Lord - El Dorado

Joys and Concerns: We believe that the best way to bear our burdens is to share them with one another. You are invited to share your joys and concerns so that our community can hold these things in our hearts as we lift them to God together. 

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

Scripture: Luke 4:1-13, NRSV - The Temptation of Jesus

Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordan and was led by the Spirit in the wilderness, where for forty days he was tempted by the devil. He ate nothing at all during those days, and when they were over, he was famished. The devil said to him, ‘If you are the Son of God, command this stone to become a loaf of bread.’ Jesus answered him, ‘It is written, “One does not live by bread alone.” ’

Then the devil led him up and showed him in an instant all the kingdoms of the world. And the devil said to him, ‘To you I will give their glory and all this authority; for it has been given over to me, and I give it to anyone I please. If you, then, will worship me, it will all be yours.’ Jesus answered him, ‘It is written,
“Worship the Lord your God,
   and serve only him.” ’

Then the devil took him to Jerusalem, and placed him on the pinnacle of the temple, saying to him, ‘If you are the Son of God, throw yourself down from here, for it is written,
“He will command his angels concerning you,
   to protect you”, 
and
“On their hands they will bear you up,
   so that you will not dash your foot against a stone.” ’ 
Jesus answered him, ‘It is said, “Do not put the Lord your God to the test.” ’ When the devil had finished every test, he departed from him until an opportune time. 

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

Sermon: LENT I: FINDING OUR HALLELUJAHS - Creating a Rule of Life for the Body - Rev. Mandy McDow

Go Deeper
If youd like to go deeper and have more companionship and guidance as you create your rule of life, you might consider the course from Sacred Ordinary Days, Creating a Rule of Life: Embodying Wholeness in Every Season.

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: Hallelujah - El Dorado, featuring Rachel Gipson
originally written and recorded by HAIM

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 27, 2022: TRANSFIGURATION SUNDAY - All Were Astounded at the Greatness of God

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

Choir of Kyiv Orthodox Theological Academy, Ukraine

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

DISCIPLE 2 BIBLE STUDY: Mondays at 5:30 PM via Zoom - We will be off on Monday, Feb. 21 for President’s Day, and will resume on Monday, February 28 with Chapter 30

ASH WEDNESDAY: Imposition of Ashes
March 2 from 12-1 at 1020 S. Flower Street

Stop by for a moment of prayer, reflection, and pause. All are welcome to walk up/walk through. If you need a parking pass, we will have some to hand out on site.

Potential In-Person Worship Resuming on Sunday April 3rd!

The Church Council, our Worship Team, and Senior Pastor Mandy are working on plans to resume in person worship on Sunday April 3rd. We will keep you updated as plans progress.

Regardless of when we do reopen in-person, we will be maintaining our strong on ONLINE worship presence and forming a hybrid worship experience since we are blessed by those across the country including in CO, Il, GA, TN, NC and across the world who join us each Sunday in fellowship.

LENTEN SERMON SERIES: March 2 - April 3 - FINDING OUR HALLELUJAHS

MARCH 2: Ash Wednesday - MIND - Repentance
MARCH 6: LENT I - BODY - Fasting & Temptation
MARCH 13: LENT II - HOME - Like a Hen Gathering Her Brood
MARCH 20: LENT III - WORK - Nurture What Bears Fruit
MARCH 27: LENT IV - RELATIONSHIPS - The Prodigal
APRIL 3: LENT V - RESOURCES - Give Freely What You Have (In Person Worship Resumes!)

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

United Methodist Resources:

29 Ways You Can Participate in Black History Month 
No matter your heritage, culture, or racial background, Black history is EVERYONE’s story. Here are 29 ways you, your family, and our congregation can celebrate and participate in Black History Month: https://bit.ly/3GPHUZY

Black History Month: Activity for Kids
Do you know these Black United Methodist History-Markers? Look up these history-makers from our church and unscramble their names as an activity.

Call to Prayer and Support for Tonga
Please join Bishop Grant J. Hagiya in your regular prayers for our Tongan siblings and for the physical island itself. We ask God to watch over the Tongan people, animals, and land. We ask God to move us to send relief in the form of donations as well as these prayers. May the Island of Tonga know that we hold them in our daily prayers! Donations for relief can be sent to the California-Pacific Conference at P.O. Box 6006, Pasadena, CA 91102-6006. Please mark any donations with “Tongan Relief” on your check or electronic offering here.

The 2022 GBHEM Methodist scholarship app is now open! The deadline is March 24th. They gave Lauren a scholarship last year, and it really helped her out. She wants to pass this along to all students. https://www.gbhem.org/loans-scholarships/scholarships/apply/

Get insight into mental health issues
WesPath is offering two virtual seminars on mental health first aid will be offered on March 10 and 24. The free events will be led by Chris White, a hostage and crisis negotiator and mental health trainer: https://bit.ly/3GTfn6N

COMMUNITY RESOURCES:

Afghan Refugee Job and Resource Fair
Do you know any new friends or neighbors who are Afghan refugees? You can encourage them to attend. Afghan refugee families resettling in LA County are invited to join us on Monday 2/28 from 10AM-6PM for a virtual job and resource fair. Link to attend the event: bit.ly/afghanfair

Check out Our SPOT, a FREE after-school program for teens ages 12-18. You can check-in Mon-Fri activities, like creative writing and music workshops, yoga classes, sports & more. parks.lacounty.gov/ourspot

LA Public Health wants to hear your ideas for street and sidewalk improvements in South LA. Share your ideas at bit.ly/PedPlanInputMap to help shape Community Pedestrian Plans in our unincorporated communities. For questions, email mhuertajones@ph.lacounty.gov

LA Public Library Tech Support
Need help with your tech? Cybernauts are trained computer aides that offer technology assistance, computer support, and mobile device support: lapl.me/ooBzN8f

Free at-⁠home COVID-⁠19 tests: https://www.covidtests.gov
Every home in the U.S. can soon order 4 free at-⁠home COVID-⁠19 tests. The tests will be completely free—there are no shipping costs and you don’t need to enter a credit card number. Ordering begins January 19: Click here to order your tests.

Sliding Scale Therapy at the Maple Center
As Ashley mentioned last week, the Maple Center is a great place to start if you want to find resources for mental health. They do therapy on an income based sliding scale, and are very respectful and caring people. https://www.maple4counseling.org/

Homeowners, the California Mortgage Relief Program application portal is open! Visit https://camortgagerelief.org/

Food Equity
1 in 10 residents struggles with food insecurity. LA County has convened the Food Equity Roundtable to address systemic inequities in our food system. Govt, philanthropy & nonprofit leaders will soon issue a blueprint for change. Have ideas? Email lafoodequityroundtable@gmail.com

Support The Ending PUSHOUT Act
This summer, many United Methodist Women members and friends all across the country participated in the Mission U study of Pushout: The Criminalization of Black Girls in Schools by Dr. Monique Morris. We learned about the extreme racial disparities in discipline impacting Black girls. Addressing the deep roots of intersecting oppressions targeting Black girls is complex and long-term work. There is no simple one-and-done fix. But we can have an impact. One way we can help make change is by showing our support for an important federal bill, The Ending PUSHOUT Act, and by encouraging our loved ones to join us in action.

The Ending PUSHOUT Act of 2021 (H.R.2248): 

  • creates a $2.5 billion fund to incentivize schools and states to abandon unfair and discriminatory disciplinary policies and practices that push children of color out of the classroom; 

  • strengthens civil rights monitoring and enforcement; 

  • and establishes a task force to address school pushout, with particular attention to the needs of girls of color. 

Participating states and schools would be supported to invest in restorative practices, trauma-informed care, counselors, social workers and mental health professionals. Funds could not be used for police in schools. Please join us in supporting The Ending PUSHOUT Act. Already taken action in support of this bill? Multiply your impact by asking three friends to join you in taking action on this campaign.

Winter Shelters are open 11/1-3/31.
The Winter Shelter Program provides a warm place to sleep and access to supportive services to our unsheltered neighbors. If you or someone you know needs shelter visit LAHSA.org/winter-shelter or call 1 (800) 548-6047.

GreenFaith: Lauren K wanted to share this interfaith climate change group to pass along if anyone at church is interested: From coast to coast; continent to continent, our message is crystal clear: Our faiths call for an end to climate destruction and a sustainable and just future for all. https://greenfaith.org/

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

Vaccines:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

CALL TO PRAYER: 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: Luke 9:28-43a, NRSV - The Transfiguration

Now about eight days after these sayings Jesus took with him Peter and John and James, and went up on the mountain to pray. And while he was praying, the appearance of his face changed, and his clothes became dazzling white. Suddenly they saw two men, Moses and Elijah, talking to him. They appeared in glory and were speaking of his departure, which he was about to accomplish at Jerusalem. Now Peter and his companions were weighed down with sleep; but since they had stayed awake, they saw his glory and the two men who stood with him. Just as they were leaving him, Peter said to Jesus, ‘Master, it is good for us to be here; let us make three dwellings, one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah’—not knowing what he said. While he was saying this, a cloud came and overshadowed them; and they were terrified as they entered the cloud.

Then from the cloud came a voice that said, ‘This is my Son, my Chosen; listen to him!’ When the voice had spoken, Jesus was found alone. And they kept silent and in those days told no one any of the things they had seen.

On the next day, when they had come down from the mountain, a great crowd met him. Just then a man from the crowd shouted, ‘Teacher, I beg you to look at my son; he is my only child. Suddenly a spirit seizes him, and all at once he shrieks. It throws him into convulsions until he foams at the mouth; it mauls him and will scarcely leave him. I begged your disciples to cast it out, but they could not.’ Jesus answered, ‘You faithless and perverse generation, how much longer must I be with you and bear with you? Bring your son here.’ While he was coming, the demon dashed him to the ground in convulsions. But Jesus rebuked the unclean spirit, healed the boy, and gave him back to his father. And all were astounded at the greatness of God.

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

Sermon: SUBVERSIVE RESOLUTIONS: All Were Astounded at the Greatness of God - 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: Bless the Beasts and the Children - El Dorado, originally recorded by The Carpenters

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 20, 2022: "Do Good, Expecting Nothing in Return"

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

Living Faith - El Dorado

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

DISCIPLE 2 BIBLE STUDY: Mondays at 5:30 PM via Zoom - We will be off on Monday, Feb. 21 for President’s Day, and will resume on Monday, February 28 with Chapter 30

EPIPHANY SERMON SERIES: JANUARY 2 - FEBRUARY 27 - SUBVERSIVE RESOLUTIONS

FEBRUARY 20: Do Good, Expecting Nothing in Return

FEBRUARY 27: TRANSFIGURATION SUNDAY - All Were Astounded at the Greatness of God

MARCH 2: Ash Wednesday

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

United Methodist Resources:

UMW Meeting
The next hybrid UMW Meeting is planned for February 20th at 2:00 pm at Villa Flores. Reach out to Sara Munshin if you would like to join the meeting via Zoom or in person.

29 Ways You Can Participate in Black History Month 
No matter your heritage, culture, or racial background, Black history is EVERYONE’s story. Here are 29 ways you, your family, and our congregation can celebrate and participate in Black History Month: https://bit.ly/3GPHUZY

Black History Month: Activity for Kids
Do you know these Black United Methodist History-Markers? Look up these history-makers from our church and unscramble their names as an activity.

Call to Prayer and Support for Tonga
Please join Bishop Grant J. Hagiya in your regular prayers for our Tongan siblings and for the physical island itself. We ask God to watch over the Tongan people, animals, and land. We ask God to move us to send relief in the form of donations as well as these prayers. May the Island of Tonga know that we hold them in our daily prayers! Donations for relief can be sent to the California-Pacific Conference at P.O. Box 6006, Pasadena, CA 91102-6006. Please mark any donations with “Tongan Relief” on your check or electronic offering here.

The 2022 GBHEM Methodist scholarship app is now open! The deadline is March 24th. They gave Lauren a scholarship last year, and it really helped her out. She wants to pass this along to all students. https://www.gbhem.org/loans-scholarships/scholarships/apply/

Get insight into mental health issues
WesPath is offering two virtual seminars on mental health first aid will be offered on March 10 and 24. The free events will be led by Chris White, a hostage and crisis negotiator and mental health trainer: https://bit.ly/3GTfn6N

COMMUNITY RESOURCES:

Check out Our SPOT, a FREE after-school program for teens ages 12-18. You can check-in Mon-Fri activities, like creative writing and music workshops, yoga classes, sports & more. parks.lacounty.gov/ourspot

LA Public Health wants to hear your ideas for street and sidewalk improvements in South LA. Share your ideas at bit.ly/PedPlanInputMap to help shape Community Pedestrian Plans in our unincorporated communities. For questions, email mhuertajones@ph.lacounty.gov

LA Public Library Tech Support
Need help with your tech? Cybernauts are trained computer aides that offer technology assistance, computer support, and mobile device support: lapl.me/ooBzN8f

Free at-⁠home COVID-⁠19 tests: https://www.covidtests.gov
Every home in the U.S. can soon order 4 free at-⁠home COVID-⁠19 tests. The tests will be completely free—there are no shipping costs and you don’t need to enter a credit card number. Ordering begins January 19: Click here to order your tests.

30 Seats Available on LA City Youth Council, 2 from Each District
Young Angelenos are not only our future, they are our present and they deserve a voice in shaping our city. The LA City Youth Dept. is now accepting applications for its first ever LA City Youth Council. For more information visit youthcouncil.lacity.org. Apps close 2/28.

Comeback Checks for Small Businesses
Round three applications open January 24th, for the $25M “Comeback Checks” program. $5K grants are available for 5,000 LA City small businesses. Applications close December 3rd. For more info, click here.

Sliding Scale Therapy at the Maple Center
As Ashley mentioned last week, the Maple Center is a great place to start if you want to find resources for mental health. They do therapy on an income based sliding scale, and are very respectful and caring people. https://www.maple4counseling.org/

Homeowners, the California Mortgage Relief Program application portal is open! Visit https://camortgagerelief.org/

LAUSD COVID-19 Response
What should I do if my child tests positive for COVID-19?
If your child tests positive, LA Public Health will call you, and it will show up as LA Public Health or 1-833-641-0305 on your caller ID. Contact tracers will ask questions to help stop COVID19's spread. They won't ask for sensitive info. #WeAreAllIn because what happens in the classroom is as critical as what happens outside. Please contact your school district to learn more about school-site testing. #GetTested by visiting covid19.lacounty.gov/testing. #WeAreAllIn when it comes to ensuring student success & the health & wellbeing of everyone in our school communities.

Food Equity
1 in 10 residents struggles with food insecurity. LA County has convened the Food Equity Roundtable to address systemic inequities in our food system. Govt, philanthropy & nonprofit leaders will soon issue a blueprint for change. Have ideas? Email lafoodequityroundtable@gmail.com

Support The Ending PUSHOUT Act
This summer, many United Methodist Women members and friends all across the country participated in the Mission U study of Pushout: The Criminalization of Black Girls in Schools by Dr. Monique Morris. We learned about the extreme racial disparities in discipline impacting Black girls. Addressing the deep roots of intersecting oppressions targeting Black girls is complex and long-term work. There is no simple one-and-done fix. But we can have an impact. One way we can help make change is by showing our support for an important federal bill, The Ending PUSHOUT Act, and by encouraging our loved ones to join us in action.

The Ending PUSHOUT Act of 2021 (H.R.2248): 

  • creates a $2.5 billion fund to incentivize schools and states to abandon unfair and discriminatory disciplinary policies and practices that push children of color out of the classroom; 

  • strengthens civil rights monitoring and enforcement; 

  • and establishes a task force to address school pushout, with particular attention to the needs of girls of color. 

Participating states and schools would be supported to invest in restorative practices, trauma-informed care, counselors, social workers and mental health professionals. Funds could not be used for police in schools. Please join us in supporting The Ending PUSHOUT Act. Already taken action in support of this bill? Multiply your impact by asking three friends to join you in taking action on this campaign.

Winter Shelters are open 11/1-3/31.
The Winter Shelter Program provides a warm place to sleep and access to supportive services to our unsheltered neighbors. If you or someone you know needs shelter visit LAHSA.org/winter-shelter or call 1 (800) 548-6047.

GreenFaith: Lauren K wanted to share this interfaith climate change group to pass along if anyone at church is interested: From coast to coast; continent to continent, our message is crystal clear: Our faiths call for an end to climate destruction and a sustainable and just future for all. https://greenfaith.org/

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

Vaccines:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Joys and Concerns: We believe that the best way to bear our burdens is to share them with one another. You are invited to share your joys and concerns so that our community can hold these things in our hearts as we lift them to God together. 

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

Scripture: Luke 6:27-38, NRSV
Love for Enemies

‘But I say to you that listen, Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who abuse you. If anyone strikes you on the cheek, offer the other also; and from anyone who takes away your coat do not withhold even your shirt. Give to everyone who begs from you; and if anyone takes away your goods, do not ask for them again. Do to others as you would have them do to you.

‘If you love those who love you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners love those who love them. If you do good to those who do good to you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners do the same. If you lend to those from whom you hope to receive, what credit is that to you? Even sinners lend to sinners, to receive as much again. But love your enemies, do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return. Your reward will be great, and you will be children of the Most High; for he is kind to the ungrateful and the wicked. Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful.

Judging Others

‘Do not judge, and you will not be judged; do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven; give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, will be put into your lap; for the measure you give will be the measure you get back.’One: This is the Word of God for us, the people of God.
All: Thanks be to God! 

Sermon: SUBVERSIVE RESOLUTIONS: Do Good, Expecting Nothing in Return - 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: Do the Right Thing - 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 13, 2022: "Blessed Are You Who Weep Now"

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

Turn, Turn, Turn - 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

DISCIPLE 2 BIBLE STUDY: Mondays at 5:30 PM via Zoom

February 14: Chapter 29
EPIPHANY SERMON SERIES: JANUARY 2 - FEBRUARY 27 - SUBVERSIVE RESOLUTIONS

FEBRUARY 13: Blessed Are You When You Weep

FEBRUARY 20: Do Good, Expecting Nothing in Return

FEBRUARY 27: TRANSFIGURATION SUNDAY - All Were Astounded at the Greatness of God

MARCH 2: Ash Wednesday

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

United Methodist Resources:

Church Council Meeting: Tuesday, Februray 15 at 6:30 pm via Zoom

UMW Meeting
The next UMW Meeting is planned for February 20th. Reach out to Sara if you would like to join in.

Super Bowl Challenge to Beat Hunger:
We have received a challenge from clergy and laity in the Cincinnati area and Bishop Gregory Palmer of the West Ohio Annual Conference has challenged Bishop Hagiya to use this weekend’s big game between the Rams and Bengals to do good.

Los Angeles is rallying behind our NFL Rams as they prepare to play the Cincinnati Bengals for Super Bowl LVI on Sunday evening, February 13, 2022, United Methodists in both cities are rallying for good. Without the typical trash talk of loyal fans, United Methodist congregations and individuals in each city are committing to raising food resources and financial support to address food insecurity in both cities.

To participate in this challenge, your local church is encouraged to collect funds (or food) for a project that addresses hunger.

Leading United Methodists in both cities have challenged one another other to give food or funds to feed people experiencing food insecurity in their communities. We encourage you to donate to Skid Row Coffee in an effort to support their work and the provision of healthy food and coffee to the Skid Row community.

Recognizing Skid Row as a Neighborhood: A Project by Tom Grode

Black History Month: Activity for Kids
Do you know these Black United Methodist History-Markers? Look up these history-makers from our church and unscramble their names as an activity.

Call to Prayer and Support for Tonga
Please join Bishop Grant J. Hagiya in your regular prayers for our Tongan siblings and for the physical island itself. We ask God to watch over the Tongan people, animals, and land. We ask God to move us to send relief in the form of donations as well as these prayers. May the Island of Tonga know that we hold them in our daily prayers! Donations for relief can be sent to the California-Pacific Conference at P.O. Box 6006, Pasadena, CA 91102-6006. Please mark any donations with “Tongan Relief” on your check or electronic offering here.

The 2022 GBHEM Methodist scholarship app is now open! The deadline is March 24th. They gave Lauren a scholarship last year, and it really helped her out. She wants to pass this along to all students. https://www.gbhem.org/loans-scholarships/scholarships/apply/

Get insight into mental health issues
WesPath is offering two virtual seminars on mental health first aid will be offered on March 10 and 24. The free events will be led by Chris White, a hostage and crisis negotiator and mental health trainer: https://bit.ly/3GTfn6N

Podcast discusses ministry with Deaf community
In the latest “Meet in the Middle” podcast, the Rev. Drew Gordon talks with the Rev. Leo Yates Jr., an ordained deacon in the Baltimore-Washington Conference who has written several books on Deaf ministry and services. They discuss personal experiences in the Deaf community and how churches can assist in building ministry for the Deaf, Deaf/blind and those who are losing their hearing as they mature.
Listen to podcast

COMMUNITY RESOURCES:

TODAY is Super Bowl Sunday
Please use caution when driving. Metro is also offering discounts on public transportation.
Remind any of your friends going to the LA Convention Center for the "Super Bowl Experience", that they can park safely, affordably, and nearby at our church owned parking lot at 1020 S. Flower Street Los Angeles, CA 90015.
If you are planning on going, you can use your LA First UMC Parking sticker to park for free. Just make sure to point it out to the attendants.

Free at-⁠home COVID-⁠19 tests: https://www.covidtests.gov
Every home in the U.S. can soon order 4 free at-⁠home COVID-⁠19 tests. The tests will be completely free—there are no shipping costs and you don’t need to enter a credit card number. Ordering begins January 19: Click here to order your tests.

30 Seats Available on LA City Youth Council, 2 from Each District

Young Angelenos are not only our future, they are our present and they deserve a voice in shaping our city. The LA City Youth Dept. is now accepting applications for its first ever LA City Youth Council. For more information visit youthcouncil.lacity.org. Apps close 2/28.

Comeback Checks for Small Businesses
Round three applications open January 24th, for the $25M “Comeback Checks” program. $5K grants are available for 5,000 LA City small businesses. Applications close December 3rd. For more info, click here.

Sliding Scale Therapy at the Maple Center
As Ashley mentioned last week, the Maple Center is a great place to start if you want to find resources for mental health. They do therapy on an income based sliding scale, and are very respectful and caring people. https://www.maple4counseling.org/

Homeowners, the California Mortgage Relief Program application portal is open! Visit https://camortgagerelief.org/

LAUSD COVID-19 Response
What should I do if my child tests positive for COVID-19?
If your child tests positive, LA Public Health will call you, and it will show up as LA Public Health or 1-833-641-0305 on your caller ID. Contact tracers will ask questions to help stop COVID19's spread. They won't ask for sensitive info. #WeAreAllIn because what happens in the classroom is as critical as what happens outside. Please contact your school district to learn more about school-site testing. #GetTested by visiting covid19.lacounty.gov/testing. #WeAreAllIn when it comes to ensuring student success & the health & wellbeing of everyone in our school communities.

Food Equity
1 in 10 residents struggles with food insecurity. LA County has convened the Food Equity Roundtable to address systemic inequities in our food system. Govt, philanthropy & nonprofit leaders will soon issue a blueprint for change. Have ideas? Email lafoodequityroundtable@gmail.com

Support The Ending PUSHOUT Act
This summer, many United Methodist Women members and friends all across the country participated in the Mission U study of Pushout: The Criminalization of Black Girls in Schools by Dr. Monique Morris. We learned about the extreme racial disparities in discipline impacting Black girls. Addressing the deep roots of intersecting oppressions targeting Black girls is complex and long-term work. There is no simple one-and-done fix. But we can have an impact. One way we can help make change is by showing our support for an important federal bill, The Ending PUSHOUT Act, and by encouraging our loved ones to join us in action.

The Ending PUSHOUT Act of 2021 (H.R.2248): 

  • creates a $2.5 billion fund to incentivize schools and states to abandon unfair and discriminatory disciplinary policies and practices that push children of color out of the classroom; 

  • strengthens civil rights monitoring and enforcement; 

  • and establishes a task force to address school pushout, with particular attention to the needs of girls of color. 

Participating states and schools would be supported to invest in restorative practices, trauma-informed care, counselors, social workers and mental health professionals. Funds could not be used for police in schools. Please join us in supporting The Ending PUSHOUT Act. Already taken action in support of this bill? Multiply your impact by asking three friends to join you in taking action on this campaign.

Winter Shelters are open 11/1-3/31.
The Winter Shelter Program provides a warm place to sleep and access to supportive services to our unsheltered neighbors. If you or someone you know needs shelter visit LAHSA.org/winter-shelter or call 1 (800) 548-6047.

GreenFaith: Lauren K wanted to share this interfaith climate change group to pass along if anyone at church is interested: From coast to coast; continent to continent, our message is crystal clear: Our faiths call for an end to climate destruction and a sustainable and just future for all. https://greenfaith.org/

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

Vaccines:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

CALL TO PRAYER: Open Your Eyes

Joys and Concerns: We believe that the best way to bear our burdens is to share them with one another. You are invited to share your joys and concerns so that our community can hold these things in our hearts as we lift them to God together. 

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

Scripture: Luke 6:17-26, NRSV

He came down with them and stood on a level place, with a great crowd of his disciples and a great multitude of people from all Judea, Jerusalem, and the coast of Tyre and Sidon. They had come to hear him and to be healed of their diseases; and those who were troubled with unclean spirits were cured. And all in the crowd were trying to touch him, for power came out from him and healed all of them.

Then he looked up at his disciples and said:
‘Blessed are you who are poor,
   for yours is the kingdom of God. 
‘Blessed are you who are hungry now,
   for you will be filled.
‘Blessed are you who weep now,
   for you will laugh.

‘Blessed are you when people hate you, and when they exclude you, revile you, and defame you on account of the Son of Man. Rejoice on that day and leap for joy, for surely your reward is great in heaven; for that is what their ancestors did to the prophets. 
‘But woe to you who are rich,
   for you have received your consolation. 
‘Woe to you who are full now,
   for you will be hungry.
‘Woe to you who are laughing now,
   for you will mourn and weep.

‘Woe to you when all speak well of you, for that is what their ancestors did to the false prophets.

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

Sermon: SUBVERSIVE RESOLUTIONS: Blessed Are You Who Weep Now - 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: Living Faith - 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 6, 2022: "By the Grace of God, I Am What I Am"

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

Put the Message in a Box - 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

DISCIPLE 2 BIBLE STUDY: Mondays at 5:30 PM via Zoom

February 7: Chapter 28
EPIPHANY SERMON SERIES: JANUARY 2 - FEBRUARY 27 - SUBVERSIVE RESOLUTIONS

FEBRUARY 6: By the Grace of God, I Am What I Am

FEBRUARY 13: Blessed Are You When You Weep

FEBRUARY 20: Do Good, Expecting Nothing in Return

FEBRUARY 27: TRANSFIGURATION SUNDAY - All Were Astounded at the Greatness of God

MARCH 2: Ash Wednesday

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

United Methodist Resources:

Church Council Meeting: Tuesday, Februray 8 at 6:30 pm via Zoom

UMW Meeting
The next UMW Meeting is planned for February 20th. Reach out to Sara if you would like to join in.

Black History Month: Activity for Kids
Do you know these Black United Methodist History-Markers? Look up these history-makers from our church and unscramble their names as an activity.

Call to Prayer and Support for Tonga
Please join Bishop Grant J. Hagiya in your regular prayers for our Tongan siblings and for the physical island itself. We ask God to watch over the Tongan people, animals, and land. We ask God to move us to send relief in the form of donations as well as these prayers. May the Island of Tonga know that we hold them in our daily prayers! Donations for relief can be sent to the California-Pacific Conference at P.O. Box 6006, Pasadena, CA 91102-6006. Please mark any donations with “Tongan Relief” on your check or electronic offering here.

The 2022 GBHEM Methodist scholarship app is now open! The deadline is March 24th. They gave Lauren a scholarship last year, and it really helped her out. She wants to pass this along to all students. https://www.gbhem.org/loans-scholarships/scholarships/apply/

Get insight into mental health issues
WesPath is offering two virtual seminars on mental health first aid will be offered on March 10 and 24. The free events will be led by Chris White, a hostage and crisis negotiator and mental health trainer: https://bit.ly/3GTfn6N

Podcast discusses ministry with Deaf community
In the latest “Meet in the Middle” podcast, the Rev. Drew Gordon talks with the Rev. Leo Yates Jr., an ordained deacon in the Baltimore-Washington Conference who has written several books on Deaf ministry and services. They discuss personal experiences in the Deaf community and how churches can assist in building ministry for the Deaf, Deaf/blind and those who are losing their hearing as they mature.
Listen to podcast

COMMUNITY RESOURCES:

Free at-⁠home COVID-⁠19 tests: https://www.covidtests.gov
Every home in the U.S. can soon order 4 free at-⁠home COVID-⁠19 tests. The tests will be completely free—there are no shipping costs and you don’t need to enter a credit card number. Ordering begins January 19: Click here to order your tests.

30 Seats Available on LA City Youth Council, 2 from Each District

Young Angelenos are not only our future, they are our present and they deserve a voice in shaping our city. The LA City Youth Dept. is now accepting applications for its first ever LA City Youth Council. For more information visit youthcouncil.lacity.org. Apps close 2/28.

Comeback Checks for Small Businesses
Round three applications open January 24th, for the $25M “Comeback Checks” program. $5K grants are available for 5,000 LA City small businesses. Applications close December 3rd. For more info, click here.

Sliding Scale Therapy at the Maple Center
As Ashley mentioned last week, the Maple Center is a great place to start if you want to find resources for mental health. They do therapy on an income based sliding scale, and are very respectful and caring people. https://www.maple4counseling.org/

Homeowners, the California Mortgage Relief Program application portal is open! Visit https://camortgagerelief.org/

LAUSD COVID-19 Response
What should I do if my child tests positive for COVID-19?
If your child tests positive, LA Public Health will call you, and it will show up as LA Public Health or 1-833-641-0305 on your caller ID. Contact tracers will ask questions to help stop COVID19's spread. They won't ask for sensitive info. #WeAreAllIn because what happens in the classroom is as critical as what happens outside. Please contact your school district to learn more about school-site testing. #GetTested by visiting covid19.lacounty.gov/testing. #WeAreAllIn when it comes to ensuring student success & the health & wellbeing of everyone in our school communities.

Food Equity
1 in 10 residents struggles with food insecurity. LA County has convened the Food Equity Roundtable to address systemic inequities in our food system. Govt, philanthropy & nonprofit leaders will soon issue a blueprint for change. Have ideas? Email lafoodequityroundtable@gmail.com

Support The Ending PUSHOUT Act
This summer, many United Methodist Women members and friends all across the country participated in the Mission U study of Pushout: The Criminalization of Black Girls in Schools by Dr. Monique Morris. We learned about the extreme racial disparities in discipline impacting Black girls. Addressing the deep roots of intersecting oppressions targeting Black girls is complex and long-term work. There is no simple one-and-done fix. But we can have an impact. One way we can help make change is by showing our support for an important federal bill, The Ending PUSHOUT Act, and by encouraging our loved ones to join us in action.

The Ending PUSHOUT Act of 2021 (H.R.2248): 

  • creates a $2.5 billion fund to incentivize schools and states to abandon unfair and discriminatory disciplinary policies and practices that push children of color out of the classroom; 

  • strengthens civil rights monitoring and enforcement; 

  • and establishes a task force to address school pushout, with particular attention to the needs of girls of color. 

Participating states and schools would be supported to invest in restorative practices, trauma-informed care, counselors, social workers and mental health professionals. Funds could not be used for police in schools. Please join us in supporting The Ending PUSHOUT Act. Already taken action in support of this bill? Multiply your impact by asking three friends to join you in taking action on this campaign.

Winter Shelters are open 11/1-3/31.
The Winter Shelter Program provides a warm place to sleep and access to supportive services to our unsheltered neighbors. If you or someone you know needs shelter visit LAHSA.org/winter-shelter or call 1 (800) 548-6047.

GreenFaith: Lauren K wanted to share this interfaith climate change group to pass along if anyone at church is interested: From coast to coast; continent to continent, our message is crystal clear: Our faiths call for an end to climate destruction and a sustainable and just future for all. https://greenfaith.org/

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

Vaccines:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

CALL TO PRAYER: From Africa to the Americas - Pine Grove AME, Pastor James Wesley Dennis III

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.

Prayers for St. John’s United Methodist Church - Firefighters Put Out Large Church Fire in Watts

Scripture: 1 Corinthians 15:1-11, NRSV
The Resurrection of Christ

Now I should remind you, brothers and sisters, of the good news that I proclaimed to you, which you in turn received, in which also you stand, through which also you are being saved, if you hold firmly to the message that I proclaimed to you—unless you have come to believe in vain.

For I handed on to you as of first importance what I in turn had received: that Christ died for our sins in accordance with the scriptures, and that he was buried, and that he was raised on the third day in accordance with the scriptures, and that he appeared to Cephas, then to the twelve. Then he appeared to more than five hundred brothers and sisters at one time, most of whom are still alive, though some have died. Then he appeared to James, then to all the apostles. Last of all, as to someone untimely born, he appeared also to me. For I am the least of the apostles, unfit to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God. But by the grace of God, I am what I am, and his grace towards me has not been in vain. On the contrary, I worked harder than any of them—though it was not I, but the grace of God that is with me. Whether then it was I or they, so we proclaim and so you have come to believe.

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

Sermon: SUBVERSIVE RESOLUTIONS: By the Grace of God, I Am What I Am- 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: Amazing Grace - 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 30, 2022: "To Pluck Up & Pull Down, To Destroy & To Overthrow, To Build & To Plant"

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

How Firm a Foundation - 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

DISCIPLE 2 BIBLE STUDY: Mondays at 5:30 PM via Zoom

January 31: Chapter 27 - Missionary Zeal


EPIPHANY SERMON SERIES: JANUARY 2 - FEBRUARY 27 - SUBVERSIVE RESOLUTIONS

JANUARY 30: To Pluck Up and Pull Down, To Destroy and Overthrow, To Build and To Plant

FEBRUARY 6: By the Grace of God, I Am What I Am

FEBRUARY 13: Blessed Are You When You Weep

FEBRUARY 20: Do Good, Expecting Nothing in Return

FEBRUARY 27: TRANSFIGURATION SUNDAY - All Were Astounded at the Greatness of God

MARCH 2: Ash Wednesday

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

United Methodist Resources:

Call to Prayer and Support for Tonga
Please join Bishop Grant J. Hagiya in your regular prayers for our Tongan siblings and for the physical island itself. We ask God to watch over the Tongan people, animals, and land. We ask God to move us to send relief in the form of donations as well as these prayers. May the Island of Tonga know that we hold them in our daily prayers! Donations for relief can be sent to the California-Pacific Conference at P.O. Box 6006, Pasadena, CA 91102-6006. Please mark any donations with “Tongan Relief” on your check or electronic offering here.

The 2022 GBHEM Methodist scholarship app is now open! The deadline is March 24th. They gave Lauren a scholarship last year, and it really helped her out. She wants to pass this along to all students. https://www.gbhem.org/loans-scholarships/scholarships/apply/

Get insight into mental health issues
WesPath is offering two virtual seminars on mental health first aid will be offered on March 10 and 24. The free events will be led by Chris White, a hostage and crisis negotiator and mental health trainer: https://bit.ly/3GTfn6N

Podcast discusses ministry with Deaf community
In the latest “Meet in the Middle” podcast, the Rev. Drew Gordon talks with the Rev. Leo Yates Jr., an ordained deacon in the Baltimore-Washington Conference who has written several books on Deaf ministry and services. They discuss personal experiences in the Deaf community and how churches can assist in building ministry for the Deaf, Deaf/blind and those who are losing their hearing as they mature.
Listen to podcast

COMMUNITY RESOURCES:

Free at-⁠home COVID-⁠19 tests: https://www.covidtests.gov
Every home in the U.S. can soon order 4 free at-⁠home COVID-⁠19 tests. The tests will be completely free—there are no shipping costs and you don’t need to enter a credit card number. Ordering begins January 19: Click here to order your tests.

30 Seats Available on LA City Youth Council, 2 from Each District

Young Angelenos are not only our future, they are our present and they deserve a voice in shaping our city. The LA City Youth Dept. is now accepting applications for its first ever LA City Youth Council. For more information visit youthcouncil.lacity.org. Apps close 2/28.

Comeback Checks for Small Businesses
Round three applications open January 24th, for the $25M “Comeback Checks” program. $5K grants are available for 5,000 LA City small businesses. Applications close December 3rd. For more info, click here.

Sliding Scale Therapy at the Maple Center
As Ashley mentioned last week, the Maple Center is a great place to start if you want to find resources for mental health. They do therapy on an income based sliding scale, and are very respectful and caring people. https://www.maple4counseling.org/

Homeowners, the California Mortgage Relief Program application portal is open! Visit https://camortgagerelief.org/

LAUSD COVID-19 Response
What should I do if my child tests positive for COVID-19?
If your child tests positive, LA Public Health will call you, and it will show up as LA Public Health or 1-833-641-0305 on your caller ID. Contact tracers will ask questions to help stop COVID19's spread. They won't ask for sensitive info. #WeAreAllIn because what happens in the classroom is as critical as what happens outside. Please contact your school district to learn more about school-site testing. #GetTested by visiting covid19.lacounty.gov/testing. #WeAreAllIn when it comes to ensuring student success & the health & wellbeing of everyone in our school communities.

Food Equity
1 in 10 residents struggles with food insecurity. LA County has convened the Food Equity Roundtable to address systemic inequities in our food system. Govt, philanthropy & nonprofit leaders will soon issue a blueprint for change. Have ideas? Email lafoodequityroundtable@gmail.com

Support The Ending PUSHOUT Act
This summer, many United Methodist Women members and friends all across the country participated in the Mission U study of Pushout: The Criminalization of Black Girls in Schools by Dr. Monique Morris. We learned about the extreme racial disparities in discipline impacting Black girls. Addressing the deep roots of intersecting oppressions targeting Black girls is complex and long-term work. There is no simple one-and-done fix. But we can have an impact. One way we can help make change is by showing our support for an important federal bill, The Ending PUSHOUT Act, and by encouraging our loved ones to join us in action.

The Ending PUSHOUT Act of 2021 (H.R.2248): 

  • creates a $2.5 billion fund to incentivize schools and states to abandon unfair and discriminatory disciplinary policies and practices that push children of color out of the classroom; 

  • strengthens civil rights monitoring and enforcement; 

  • and establishes a task force to address school pushout, with particular attention to the needs of girls of color. 

Participating states and schools would be supported to invest in restorative practices, trauma-informed care, counselors, social workers and mental health professionals. Funds could not be used for police in schools. Please join us in supporting The Ending PUSHOUT Act. Already taken action in support of this bill? Multiply your impact by asking three friends to join you in taking action on this campaign.

Winter Shelters are open 11/1-3/31.
The Winter Shelter Program provides a warm place to sleep and access to supportive services to our unsheltered neighbors. If you or someone you know needs shelter visit LAHSA.org/winter-shelter or call 1 (800) 548-6047.

GreenFaith: Lauren K wanted to share this interfaith climate change group to pass along if anyone at church is interested: From coast to coast; continent to continent, our message is crystal clear: Our faiths call for an end to climate destruction and a sustainable and just future for all. https://greenfaith.org/

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

Vaccines:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

MUSIC TO CENTER OUR HEARTS: Great Are You, Lord - El Dorado

Joys and Concerns: We believe that the best way to bear our burdens is to share them with one another. You are invited to share your joys and concerns so that our community can hold these things in our hearts as we lift them to God together. 

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

Scripture: Jeremiah 1:4-10, NRSV

Now the word of the Lord came to me saying, 
‘Before I formed you in the womb I knew you,
and before you were born I consecrated you;
I appointed you a prophet to the nations.’ 
Then I said, ‘Ah, Lord God! Truly I do not know how to speak, for I am only a boy.’ But the Lord said to me,
‘Do not say, “I am only a boy”;
for you shall go to all to whom I send you,
and you shall speak whatever I command you. 
Do not be afraid of them,
for I am with you to deliver you, 

says the Lord.’ 
Then the Lord put out his hand and touched my mouth; and the Lord said to me,
‘Now I have put my words in your mouth. 
See, today I appoint you over nations and over kingdoms,
to pluck up and to pull down,
to destroy and to overthrow,
to build and to plant.’

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

Sermon: SUBVERSIVE RESOLUTIONS: To Pluck Up & Pull Down, To Destroy & To Overthrow, To Build & To Plant - 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: Turn, Turn, Turn - 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. 

Donate

Order of Worship for Sunday, January 23, 2022: "Do You Want to Live Forever?" - Oscar Gomez, preaching

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

Thanks to Stephen Folds for guiding the service today as Rev. Mandy McDow is preaching at The Loft at Westwood UMC.

Great Is Thy Faithfulness - 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

DISCIPLE 2 BIBLE STUDY: Mondays at 5:30 PM via Zoom

January 24: Chapter 26 - Community in Jerusalem

  • Day 1: Acts 6 - Seven Deacons, Stephen Charged

  • Day 2: Acts 7 - Stephen’s Speech, First Martyr

  • Day 3: Acts 8 - Philip, Peter, and John in Samaria; the Ethiopian Eunuch

  • Day 4: Acts 9:1-31 - Saul’s Conversion 

  • Day 5: Galatians 1 - Paul, an Apostle 

  • Day 6: Study Manual, p. 200-207

EPIPHANY SERMON SERIES: JANUARY 2 - FEBRUARY 27 - SUBVERSIVE RESOLUTIONS

JANUARY 23: Let the Oppressed Go Free! - Oscar Gomez, preaching

JANUARY 30: To Pluck Up and Pull Down, To Destroy and Overthrow, To Build and To Plant

FEBRUARY 6: By the Grace of God, I Am What I Am

FEBRUARY 13: Blessed Are You When You Weep

FEBRUARY 20: Do Good, Expecting Nothing in Return

FEBRUARY 27: TRANSFIGURATION SUNDAY - All Were Astounded at the Greatness of God

MARCH 2: Ash Wednesday

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

United Methodist Resources:

Call to Prayer and Support for Tonga
Please join Bishop Grant J. Hagiya in your regular prayers for our Tongan siblings and for the physical island itself. We ask God to watch over the Tongan people, animals, and land. We ask God to move us to send relief in the form of donations as well as these prayers. May the Island of Tonga know that we hold them in our daily prayers! Donations for relief can be sent to the California-Pacific Conference at P.O. Box 6006, Pasadena, CA 91102-6006. Please mark any donations with “Tongan Relief” on your check or electronic offering here.

The 2022 GBHEM Methodist scholarship app is now open! The deadline is March 24th. They gave Lauren a scholarship last year, and it really helped her out. She wants to pass this along to all students. https://www.gbhem.org/loans-scholarships/scholarships/apply/

Get insight into mental health issues
WesPath is offering two virtual seminars on mental health first aid will be offered on March 10 and 24. The free events will be led by Chris White, a hostage and crisis negotiator and mental health trainer: https://bit.ly/3GTfn6N

HOLMAN UMC's SOULFORCE NONVIOLENCE WORKSHOPS led by REV. JAMES LAWSON
We look forward to gathering again online on
January 22nd, from 9:00am - 11:00am
Registration is required; please follow this LINK
By registering for this workshop you consent to being recorded and accept that the Nonviolence Workshop team may utilize the recording at its discretion.
To view the recording of the December 18th workshop, please follow this LINK

Podcast discusses ministry with Deaf community
In the latest “Meet in the Middle” podcast, the Rev. Drew Gordon talks with the Rev. Leo Yates Jr., an ordained deacon in the Baltimore-Washington Conference who has written several books on Deaf ministry and services. They discuss personal experiences in the Deaf community and how churches can assist in building ministry for the Deaf, Deaf/blind and those who are losing their hearing as they mature.
Listen to podcast

COMMUNITY RESOURCES:

Free at-⁠home COVID-⁠19 tests: https://www.covidtests.gov
Every home in the U.S. can soon order 4 free at-⁠home COVID-⁠19 tests. The tests will be completely free—there are no shipping costs and you don’t need to enter a credit card number. Ordering begins January 19: Click here to order your tests.

30 Seats Available on LA City Youth Council, 2 from Each District

Young Angelenos are not only our future, they are our present and they deserve a voice in shaping our city. The LA City Youth Dept. is now accepting applications for its first ever LA City Youth Council. For more information visit youthcouncil.lacity.org. Apps close 2/28.

Comeback Checks for Small Businesses
Round three applications open January 24th, for the $25M “Comeback Checks” program. $5K grants are available for 5,000 LA City small businesses. Applications close December 3rd. For more info, click here.

Sliding Scale Therapy at the Maple Center
As Ashley mentioned last week, the Maple Center is a great place to start if you want to find resources for mental health. They do therapy on an income based sliding scale, and are very respectful and caring people. https://www.maple4counseling.org/

Homeowners, the California Mortgage Relief Program application portal is open! Visit https://camortgagerelief.org/

LAUSD COVID-19 Response
What should I do if my child tests positive for COVID-19?
If your child tests positive, LA Public Health will call you, and it will show up as LA Public Health or 1-833-641-0305 on your caller ID. Contact tracers will ask questions to help stop COVID19's spread. They won't ask for sensitive info. #WeAreAllIn because what happens in the classroom is as critical as what happens outside. Please contact your school district to learn more about school-site testing. #GetTested by visiting covid19.lacounty.gov/testing. #WeAreAllIn when it comes to ensuring student success & the health & wellbeing of everyone in our school communities.

Food Equity
1 in 10 residents struggles with food insecurity. LA County has convened the Food Equity Roundtable to address systemic inequities in our food system. Govt, philanthropy & nonprofit leaders will soon issue a blueprint for change. Have ideas? Email lafoodequityroundtable@gmail.com

Support The Ending PUSHOUT Act
This summer, many United Methodist Women members and friends all across the country participated in the Mission U study of Pushout: The Criminalization of Black Girls in Schools by Dr. Monique Morris. We learned about the extreme racial disparities in discipline impacting Black girls. Addressing the deep roots of intersecting oppressions targeting Black girls is complex and long-term work. There is no simple one-and-done fix. But we can have an impact. One way we can help make change is by showing our support for an important federal bill, The Ending PUSHOUT Act, and by encouraging our loved ones to join us in action.

The Ending PUSHOUT Act of 2021 (H.R.2248): 

  • creates a $2.5 billion fund to incentivize schools and states to abandon unfair and discriminatory disciplinary policies and practices that push children of color out of the classroom; 

  • strengthens civil rights monitoring and enforcement; 

  • and establishes a task force to address school pushout, with particular attention to the needs of girls of color. 

Participating states and schools would be supported to invest in restorative practices, trauma-informed care, counselors, social workers and mental health professionals. Funds could not be used for police in schools. Please join us in supporting The Ending PUSHOUT Act. Already taken action in support of this bill? Multiply your impact by asking three friends to join you in taking action on this campaign.

Winter Shelters are open 11/1-3/31.
The Winter Shelter Program provides a warm place to sleep and access to supportive services to our unsheltered neighbors. If you or someone you know needs shelter visit LAHSA.org/winter-shelter or call 1 (800) 548-6047.

GreenFaith: Lauren K wanted to share this interfaith climate change group to pass along if anyone at church is interested: From coast to coast; continent to continent, our message is crystal clear: Our faiths call for an end to climate destruction and a sustainable and just future for all. https://greenfaith.org/

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

Vaccines:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

MUSIC TO CENTER OUR HEARTS: 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: Luke 4:14-21, NRSV

Then Jesus, filled with the power of the Spirit, returned to Galilee, and a report about him spread through all the surrounding country. He began to teach in their synagogues and was praised by everyone.

When he came to Nazareth, where he had been brought up, he went to the synagogue on the sabbath day, as was his custom. He stood up to read, and the scroll of the prophet Isaiah was given to him. He unrolled the scroll and found the place where it was written: 
‘The Spirit of the Lord is upon me,
   because he has anointed me
     to bring good news to the poor.
He has sent me to proclaim release to the captives
   and recovery of sight to the blind,
     to let the oppressed go free, 
to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favour.’ 
And he rolled up the scroll, gave it back to the attendant, and sat down. The eyes of all in the synagogue were fixed on him. Then he began to say to them, ‘Today this scripture has been fulfilled in your hearing.’One: This is the Word of God for us, the people of God.
All: Thanks be to God! 

Sermon: SUBVERSIVE RESOLUTIONS: Do You Want to Live Forever? - Oscar Gomez

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

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

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

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

CLOSING SONG: Put the Message in the Box - 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. 

Donate

Order of Worship for Sunday, January 16, 2022: "I Will Not Keep Silent, I Will Not Rest"

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

Talking 'Bout A Revolution - 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

DISCIPLE 2 BIBLE STUDY: Mondays at 5:30 PM via Zoom
Classes will resume January 24, 2022

January 24: Chapter 26 - Community in Jerusalem

  • Day 1: Acts 6 - Seven Deacons, Stephen Charged

  • Day 2: Acts 7 - Stephen’s Speech, First Martyr

  • Day 3: Acts 8 - Philip, Peter, and John in Samaria; the Ethiopian Eunuch

  • Day 4: Acts 9:1-31 - Saul’s Conversion 

  • Day 5: Galatians 1 - Paul, an Apostle 

  • Day 6: Study Manual, p. 200-207

EPIPHANY SERMON SERIES: JANUARY 2 - FEBRUARY 27 - SUBVERSIVE RESOLUTIONS

JANUARY 16: I WILL NOT KEEP SILENT, I WILL NOT REST

JANUARY 23: LET THE OPPRESSED GO FREE!

JANUARY 30: TO PLUCK UP AND PULL DOWN, TO DESTROY AND OVERTHROW, TO BUILD AND TO PLANT

FEBRUARY 6: BY THE GRACE OF GOD, I AM WHAT I AM

FEBRUARY 13: BLESSED ARE YOU WHEN YOU WEEP

FEBRUARY 20: DO GOOD, EXPECTING NOTHING IN RETURN

FEBRUARY 27: TRANSFIGURATION SUNDAY - ALL WERE ASTOUNDED AT THE GREATNESS OF GOD

MARCH 2: ASH WEDNESDAY

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

COMMUNITY RESOURCES:

Free at-⁠home COVID-⁠19 tests: https://www.covidtests.gov
Every home in the U.S. can soon order 4 free at-⁠home COVID-⁠19 tests. The tests will be completely free—there are no shipping costs and you don’t need to enter a credit card number. Ordering begins January 19: Click here to order your tests.

MLK Jr. Day Celebration
Tomorrow, join the California African American Museum in celebrating King Day 2022 from 11am-1pm. Commemorate Martin Luther King Jr. Day with special virtual programs including a King speech study group and a performance by members of the @icyola_official. https://caamuseum.org/programs/kids-teens-and-families/king-day-2022

Sliding Scale Therapy at the Maple Center
As Ashley mentioned last week, the Maple Center is a great place to start if you want to find resources for mental health. They do therapy on an income based sliding scale, and are very respectful and caring people. https://www.maple4counseling.org/

Homeowners, the California Mortgage Relief Program application portal is open! Visit https://camortgagerelief.org/

LAUSD COVID-19 Response
What should I do if my child tests positive for COVID-19?
If your child tests positive, LA Public Health will call you, and it will show up as LA Public Health or 1-833-641-0305 on your caller ID. Contact tracers will ask questions to help stop COVID19's spread. They won't ask for sensitive info. #WeAreAllIn because what happens in the classroom is as critical as what happens outside. Please contact your school district to learn more about school-site testing. #GetTested by visiting covid19.lacounty.gov/testing. #WeAreAllIn when it comes to ensuring student success & the health & wellbeing of everyone in our school communities.

Food Equity
1 in 10 residents struggles with food insecurity. LA County has convened the Food Equity Roundtable to address systemic inequities in our food system. Govt, philanthropy & nonprofit leaders will soon issue a blueprint for change. Have ideas? Email lafoodequityroundtable@gmail.com

Support The Ending PUSHOUT Act
This summer, many United Methodist Women members and friends all across the country participated in the Mission U study of Pushout: The Criminalization of Black Girls in Schools by Dr. Monique Morris. We learned about the extreme racial disparities in discipline impacting Black girls. Addressing the deep roots of intersecting oppressions targeting Black girls is complex and long-term work. There is no simple one-and-done fix. But we can have an impact. One way we can help make change is by showing our support for an important federal bill, The Ending PUSHOUT Act, and by encouraging our loved ones to join us in action.

The Ending PUSHOUT Act of 2021 (H.R.2248): 

  • creates a $2.5 billion fund to incentivize schools and states to abandon unfair and discriminatory disciplinary policies and practices that push children of color out of the classroom; 

  • strengthens civil rights monitoring and enforcement; 

  • and establishes a task force to address school pushout, with particular attention to the needs of girls of color. 

Participating states and schools would be supported to invest in restorative practices, trauma-informed care, counselors, social workers and mental health professionals. Funds could not be used for police in schools. Please join us in supporting The Ending PUSHOUT Act. Already taken action in support of this bill? Multiply your impact by asking three friends to join you in taking action on this campaign.

Winter Shelters are open 11/1-3/31.
The Winter Shelter Program provides a warm place to sleep and access to supportive services to our unsheltered neighbors. If you or someone you know needs shelter visit LAHSA.org/winter-shelter or call 1 (800) 548-6047.

GreenFaith: Lauren K wanted to share this interfaith climate change group to pass along if anyone at church is interested: From coast to coast; continent to continent, our message is crystal clear: Our faiths call for an end to climate destruction and a sustainable and just future for all. https://greenfaith.org/

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

Vaccines:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

MUSIC TO CENTER OUR HEARTS: Earth Song - El Dorado

Former LA First UMC Senior Pastor Rev. DarEll T. Weist Remembered
MADISON, N.J. — The Rev. DarEll T. Weist, a board member of the United Methodist Commission on Archives and History, died of a heart attack Dec. 10. Weist, who grew up in the Evangelical United Brethren tradition, revitalized the position of California-Pacific Conference historian and served as chair of the Western Jurisdiction Commission on Archives and History.
Read remembrance

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 62:1-5, NRSV

For Zion’s sake I will not keep silent,
and for Jerusalem’s sake I will not rest,
until her vindication shines out like the dawn,
and her salvation like a burning torch.
The nations shall see your vindication,
and all the kings your glory;
and you shall be called by a new name
that the mouth of the Lord will give.
You shall be a crown of beauty in the hand of the Lord,
and a royal diadem in the hand of your God.
You shall no more be termed Forsaken,
and your land shall no more be termed Desolate;
but you shall be called My Delight Is in Her,
and your land Married;
for the Lord delights in you,
and your land shall be married.
For as a young man marries a young woman,
so shall your builder marry you,
and as the bridegroom rejoices over the bride,
so shall your God rejoice over you.

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

Sermon: SUBVERSIVE RESOLUTIONS: I Will Not Keep Silent, I Will Not Rest - 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: We Shall Overcome - 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 Baptism of the Lord Sunday, January 9, 2022

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

DISCIPLE 2 BIBLE STUDY: Mondays at 5:30 PM via Zoom
Classes will resume January 10, 2022

January 10: Chapter 25 - Chapter 25 - Acts of the Holy Spirit

  • Day 1: Acts 1 - Ascension, Replacement for Judas 

  • Day 2: Acts 2 - Pentecost, Peter’s Sermon, Common Fellowship 

  • Day 3: Acts 3 - Peter and John Heal a Lame Man

  • Day 4: Acts 4 - Peter and John before the Council, Praying for Boldness, Sharing 

  • Day 5: Acts 5 - Ananias and Sapphira, Obey God not Humans

  • Day 6: Study Manual, p. 192-199


EPIPHANY SERMON SERIES: JANUARY 2 - FEBRUARY 27 - SUBVERSIVE RESOLUTIONS

JANUARY 9: BAPTISM OF THE LORD - IN YOU I AM WELL PLEASED

JANUARY 16: I WILL NOT KEEP SILENT, I WILL NOT REST

JANUARY 23: LET THE OPPRESSED GO FREE!

JANUARY 30: TO PLUCK UP AND PULL DOWN, TO DESTROY AND OVERTHROW, TO BUILD AND TO PLANT

FEBRUARY 6: BY THE GRACE OF GOD, I AM WHAT I AM

FEBRUARY 13: BLESSED ARE YOU WHEN YOU WEEP

FEBRUARY 20: DO GOOD, EXPECTING NOTHING IN RETURN

FEBRUARY 27: TRANSFIGURATION SUNDAY - ALL WERE ASTOUNDED AT THE GREATNESS OF GOD

MARCH 2: ASH WEDNESDAY

CHURCH COUNCIL MEETING: Tuesday, January 11 at 6:30 PM via Zoom

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

COMMUNITY RESOURCES:

LAUSD COVID-19 Response

What should I do if my child tests positive for COVID-19?
If your child tests positive, LA Public Health will call you, and it will show up as LA Public Health or 1-833-641-0305 on your caller ID. Contact tracers will ask questions to help stop COVID19's spread. They won't ask for sensitive info. #WeAreAllIn because what happens in the classroom is as critical as what happens outside. Please contact your school district to learn more about school-site testing. #GetTested by visiting covid19.lacounty.gov/testing. #WeAreAllIn when it comes to ensuring student success & the health & wellbeing of everyone in our school communities.

Food Equity
1 in 10 residents struggles with food insecurity. LA County has convened the Food Equity Roundtable to address systemic inequities in our food system. Govt, philanthropy & nonprofit leaders will soon issue a blueprint for change. Have ideas? Email lafoodequityroundtable@gmail.com

Support The Ending PUSHOUT Act
This summer, many United Methodist Women members and friends all across the country participated in the Mission u study of Pushout: The Criminalization of Black Girls in Schools by Dr. Monique Morris. We learned about the extreme racial disparities in discipline impacting Black girls. Addressing the deep roots of intersecting oppressions targeting Black girls is complex and long-term work. There is no simple one-and-done fix. But we can have an impact. One way we can help make change is by showing our support for an important federal bill, The Ending PUSHOUT Act, and by encouraging our loved ones to join us in action.

The Ending PUSHOUT Act of 2021 (H.R.2248): 

  • creates a $2.5 billion fund to incentivize schools and states to abandon unfair and discriminatory disciplinary policies and practices that push children of color out of the classroom; 

  • strengthens civil rights monitoring and enforcement; 

  • and establishes a task force to address school pushout, with particular attention to the needs of girls of color. 

Participating states and schools would be supported to invest in restorative practices, trauma-informed care, counselors, social workers and mental health professionals. Funds could not be used for police in schools. Please join us in supporting The Ending PUSHOUT Act. Already taken action in support of this bill? Multiply your impact by asking three friends to join you in taking action on this campaign.

Winter Shelters are open 11/1-3/31.
The Winter Shelter Program provides a warm place to sleep and access to supportive services to our unsheltered neighbors. If you or someone you know needs shelter visit LAHSA.org/winter-shelter or call 1 (800) 548-6047.

GreenFaith: Lauren K wanted to share this interfaith climate change group to pass along if anyone at church is interested: From coast to coast; continent to continent, our message is crystal clear: Our faiths call for an end to climate destruction and a sustainable and just future for all. https://greenfaith.org/

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

Vaccines:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

MUSIC TO CENTER OUR HEARTS: Take Me to the River - El Dorado

Former LA First UMC Senior Pastor Rev. DarEll T. Weist Remembered
MADISON, N.J. — The Rev. DarEll T. Weist, a board member of the United Methodist Commission on Archives and History, died of a heart attack Dec. 10. Weist, who grew up in the Evangelical United Brethren tradition, revitalized the position of California-Pacific Conference historian and served as chair of the Western Jurisdiction Commission on Archives and History.
Read remembrance

Joys and Concerns: We believe that the best way to bear our burdens is to share them with one another. You are invited to share your joys and concerns so that our community can hold these things in our hearts as we lift them to God together. 

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

Scripture: Luke 3:15-22, NRSV

As the people were filled with expectation, and all were questioning in their hearts concerning John, whether he might be the Messiah, John answered all of them by saying, ‘I baptize you with water; but one who is more powerful than I is coming; I am not worthy to untie the thong of his sandals. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire. His winnowing-fork is in his hand, to clear his threshing-floor and to gather the wheat into his granary; but the chaff he will burn with unquenchable fire.’

So, with many other exhortations, he proclaimed the good news to the people. But Herod the ruler, who had been rebuked by him because of Herodias, his brother’s wife, and because of all the evil things that Herod had done, added to them all by shutting up John in prison.

Now when all the people were baptized, and when Jesus also had been baptized and was praying, the heaven was opened, and the Holy Spirit descended upon him in bodily form like a dove. 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: SUBVERSIVE RESOLUTIONS: The Baptism of the Lord, “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 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 Ephiphany Sunday, January 2, 2022

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

Joy to the World - El Dorado

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

You are invited to greet one another in the live stream chat on Instagram, YouTube, and Facebook. 


ANNOUNCEMENTS

DISCIPLE 2 BIBLE STUDY: Mondays at 5:30 PM via Zoom
Classes will resume January 10, 2022

January 10: Chapter 25 - Chapter 25 - Acts of the Holy Spirit

  • Day 1: Acts 1 - Ascension, Replacement for Judas 

  • Day 2: Acts 2 - Pentecost, Peter’s Sermon, Common Fellowship 

  • Day 3: Acts 3 - Peter and John Heal a Lame Man

  • Day 4: Acts 4 - Peter and John before the Council, Praying for Boldness, Sharing 

  • Day 5: Acts 5 - Ananias and Sapphira, Obey God not Humans

  • Day 6: Study Manual, p. 192-199

EPIPHANY SERMON SERIES: JANUARY 2 - FEBRUARY 27 - SUBVERSIVE RESOLUTIONS

JANUARY 2: EPIPHANY SUNDAY - THE MYSTERY HIDDEN FOR THE AGES

JANUARY 9: BAPTISM OF THE LORD - IN YOU I AM WELL PLEASED

JANUARY 16: I WILL NOT KEEP SILENT, I WILL NOT REST

JANUARY 23: LET THE OPPRESSED GO FREE!

JANUARY 30: TO PLUCK UP AND PULL DOWN, TO DESTROY AND OVERTRHOW, TO BUILD AND TO PLANT

FEBRUARY 6: BY THE GRACE OF GOD, I AM WHAT I AM

FEBRUARY 13: BLESSED ARE YOU WHEN YOU WEEP

FEBRUARY 20: DO GOOD, EXPECTING NOTHING IN RETURN

FEBRUARY 27: TRANSFIGURATION SUNDAY - ALL WERE ASTOUNDED AT THE GREATNESS OF GOD

MARCH 2: ASH WEDNESDAY

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

COMMUNITY RESOURCES:
Support The Ending PUSHOUT Act
This summer, many United Methodist Women members and friends all across the country participated in the Mission u study of Pushout: The Criminalization of Black Girls in Schools by Dr. Monique Morris. We learned about the extreme racial disparities in discipline impacting Black girls. Addressing the deep roots of intersecting oppressions targeting Black girls is complex and long-term work. There is no simple one-and-done fix. But we can have an impact. One way we can help make change is by showing our support for an important federal bill, The Ending PUSHOUT Act, and by encouraging our loved ones to join us in action.

The Ending PUSHOUT Act of 2021 (H.R.2248): 

  • creates a $2.5 billion fund to incentivize schools and states to abandon unfair and discriminatory disciplinary policies and practices that push children of color out of the classroom; 

  • strengthens civil rights monitoring and enforcement; 

  • and establishes a task force to address school pushout, with particular attention to the needs of girls of color. 

Participating states and schools would be supported to invest in restorative practices, trauma-informed care, counselors, social workers and mental health professionals. Funds could not be used for police in schools. Please join us in supporting The Ending PUSHOUT Act. Already taken action in support of this bill? Multiply your impact by asking three friends to join you in taking action on this campaign.

Winter Shelters are open 11/1-3/31.
The Winter Shelter Program provides a warm place to sleep and access to supportive services to our unsheltered neighbors. If you or someone you know needs shelter visit LAHSA.org/winter-shelter or call 1 (800) 548-6047.

GreenFaith: Lauren K wanted to share this interfaith climate change group to pass along if anyone at church is interested: From coast to coast; continent to continent, our message is crystal clear: Our faiths call for an end to climate destruction and a sustainable and just future for all. https://greenfaith.org/

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

Vaccines:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

MUSIC TO CENTER OUR HEARTS: It Came Upon a Midnight Clear - El Dorado

Joys and Concerns: We believe that the best way to bear our burdens is to share them with one another. You are invited to share your joys and concerns so that our community can hold these things in our hearts as we lift them to God together. 

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

Scripture: Ephesians 3:1-12, NRSV

This is the reason that I Paul am a prisoner for Christ Jesus for the sake of you Gentiles— for surely you have already heard of the commission of God’s grace that was given to me for you, and how the mystery was made known to me by revelation, as I wrote above in a few words, a reading of which will enable you to perceive my understanding of the mystery of Christ. In former generations this mystery was not made known to humankind, as it has now been revealed to his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit: that is, the Gentiles have become fellow-heirs, members of the same body, and sharers in the promise in Christ Jesus through the gospel.

Of this gospel I have become a servant according to the gift of God’s grace that was given to me by the working of his power. Although I am the very least of all the saints, this grace was given to me to bring to the Gentiles the news of the boundless riches of Christ, and to make everyone see what is the plan of the mystery hidden for ages in God who created all things; so that through the church the wisdom of God in its rich variety might now be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly places. This was in accordance with the eternal purpose that he has carried out in Christ Jesus our Lord, in whom we have access to God in boldness and confidence through faith in him.

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

Sermon: EPIPHANY: The Mystery Hidden for the Ages - Rev. Mandy McDow

A Blessing of the Chalk for Marking the Door

Lord Jesus, through your Incarnation and birth in true human form, you have made all the earth holy. We now ask your blessing upon this simple gift of your creation — chalk. We use it as a tool to teach our children, and they use it as a tool in their play and games. Now, with your blessing, may it become a tool for us to mark the doors of our home with the symbols of your wise servants who, so long ago, came to worship and adore you in your first home.

People in turn mark the doorway with one or more of the symbols:

2021 C M B 2022

May we and all who come to visit, to work, and to play, remember these things throughout the coming year. May all who come and go here find peace, comfort, joy, hope, love, and salvation, for Christ has come to dwell in this house and in these hearts.

All: May we be Christ's light in the world. Amen.

HOLY COMMUNION

Invitation to the Table: As we understand the Body of Christ to be inclusive, we understand God’s table of grace and fellowship can extend into our homes. As you’re able, bring your own elements to this time. Bread, Juice, Coffee, Muffins… the Body of Christ is comprised of wonder and mystery. Today, we celebrate that God can reach us where we are, even if we are not together.

The Great Mystery of our Faith
All: Christ has died
Christ is risen. 
Christ will come again.

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

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

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

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

MUSIC DURING COMMUNION: This Joy - El Dorado

Benediction Remember:
God is with you,
God is for you, 
God refuses to be God without you. 
And may all of God’s people say: Amen. 

Virtual Coffee Hour Begins now!
Immediately following worship on Zoom

Donate

Order of Worship for Christmas Eve - Promise: Fulfilled

THE LESSONS OF THE HISTORY OF OUR SALVATION

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

 GREETING                                                                                Rev. Mandy Sloan McDow

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

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

 *HYMN - Come, Thou Long Expected Jesus El Dorado                                                                      

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

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

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

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

Glory to God in the highest!

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

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

*CAROL - It Came Upon the Midnight Clear El Dorado                                                      

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

CAROL - In the Bleak Midwinter Laurie Ray & Mandy McDow, vocals & guitar; Wes Goldsberry, violin                    

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

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

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

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

 CAROL - There's Still My Joy                  Rachel Rhodes-Wickett Gipson, Mandy McDow                     

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

CAROL - Hark! The Herald Angels Sing El Dorado                                                                                                                              

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

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

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

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

HOMILY         Promises: Fulfilled    Rev. Mandy McDow

 THE LORD’S PRAYER  
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name.
Thy Kingdom come, thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven.  
Give us this day our daily bread.
And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us.  
And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.  
For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen. 

 CAROL - Joy to the World El Dorado

 CEREMONY OF LIGHTS

 *CAROL – Silent Night, Holy Night El Dorado

BENEDICTION                                                                      Rev. Mandy McDow
Remember:
God is with you,
God is for you, 
God refuses to be God without you. 
And may all of God’s people say: Amen. 

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

Be sure to join us for Sunday worship on FB/YouTube/Twitter Live
January 2, 2020 at 10:30 a.m.
Los Angeles First United Methodist Church
www.LAFirstUMC.org
Creative • Courageous • Compassionate

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

Donate

Order of Worship for ADVENT IV, A Season of Fulfilled Promises: Blessings Which Aren't

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

It Came Upon A Midnight Clear - 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

DISCIPLE 2 BIBLE STUDY: Mondays at 5:30 PM via Zoom
Classes will resume January 10, 2022

January 10: Chapter 25 - Chapter 25 - Acts of the Holy Spirit

  • Day 1: Acts 1 - Ascension, Replacement for Judas 

  • Day 2: Acts 2 - Pentecost, Peter’s Sermon, Common Fellowship 

  • Day 3: Acts 3 - Peter and John Heal a Lame Man

  • Day 4: Acts 4 - Peter and John before the Council, Praying for Boldness, Sharing 

  • Day 5: Acts 5 - Ananias and Sapphira, Obey God not Humans

  • Day 6: Study Manual, p. 192-199

ADVENT SERMON SERIES: November 28-Jan 2
A Season of Fulfilled Promises:

NOV. 28: JUSTICE & RIGHTEOUSNESS

DEC. 5: PREPARED & UNREADY

DEC. 12: REPENT & REJOICE

DEC. 19: BLESSINGS WHICH AREN'T

DEC. 24: PROMISE FULFILLED - 5:30PM - IN PERSON WORSHIP!

DEC. 26: SABBATH SUNDAY

JAN. 2: EPIPHANY SUNDAY

CHRISTMAS EVE: IN PERSON WORSHIP AND FELLOWSHIP!
Join us at 4:30 PM on Friday, December 24 in our parking lot at 1020 S. Flower Street, LA 90015 for fellowship prior to our 5:30 pm Christmas Eve Candlelighting Service! Masks are required, and all are welcome!


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

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

UNITED METHODIST RESOURCES:

ADVENT PHOTO A DAY 2021:

The United Methodist Church offers a practice for the Advent season that we hope is more meaningful and rewarding than it is hard: Our Advent Photo-a-Day Challenge. Each day during the season of Advent, we'll post a word for reflection. Take a moment (or several moments) of pause and reflection, then share a response to that word through a picture posted on social media. Post your picture on social media with #RethinkChurch.

You can find 2020’s Advent Song a Day Playlist here.

ADVENT 2021 Song-A-Day Playlist:

November 28 - PROMISE:  A Change is Gonna Come - Sam Cooke
29 - FULFILL: Every Valley Shall Be Exalted - Handel’s Messiah: A Soulful Celebration, Lizz Lee, Chris Willis, Mike E. 
30 - TIME: What Christmas Means to Me - John Legend, Stevie Wonder
December 1 - JUSTICE: O Holy Night, Brandi Carlile (additionally, Tracy Chapman)2 - RIGHTEOUSNESS: New Compassion - HAERTS
3 - LIVE: Nutcracker Suite: Sugar Rum Cherry (Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy) - Duke Ellington, Harmonie Ensemble
4 - CALLED: Christmas Is - Dolly Parton & Miley Cyrus
5 - HOPE: And He Shall Purify - Handel’s Messiah: A Soulful Celebration, Tramaine Hawkins
6 - MESSENGER: Come, Thou Long Expected Jesus - Christy Nockels
7 - PREPARE: People, Get Ready - Eva Cassidy
8 - SEEK: O Come, All Ye Faithful - Nat King Cole
9 - DELIGHT: Hallelujah - HAIM
10 - ENDURE: There’s Still My Joy - Indigo Girls
11 - OFFERING: In the Bleak Midwinter - Indigo Girls
12 - HOME: Home - Michelle Malone
13 - FEAR: River - Joni Mitchell
14 - GROW - Gold and Green - Sugarland
15 - GLADNESS: Circle of Love - Dolly Parton
16 - VICTORY: Soon & Very Soon - Andre Crouch
17 - RENEW: A Hard Year’s Christmas - Johnnyswim
18 - GATHER: Crowded Table - The Highwomen
19 - GREAT: Revelations 19:1 - Sunday Service Choir 
20 - WATCH
21 - AWE
22 - AMAZED
23 - TREASURED
24 - SEEN
25 - WORSHIP

*Hospitality Representatives Needed for Our Potentially In Person Christmas Eve Service*

As you may have heard the past two Sundays from Senior Pastor Mandy, we have been planning and preparing to have an in-person service, hopefully, on Christmas Eve at 5:30pm at our home base, our beloved parking lot. In order to make that possible, we are looking for volunteers for our new Hospitality Representatives Team. In order to make sure that all are kept safe under Covid protocols, we will need more hands on deck to greet and guide members and guests so that Mandy and El Dorado and Debbie can focus on the efforts of setting up and running the service. If you think you would be great at this vital new role, please email Debbie at debbie@lafirstumc.org

UMC Winter Camps for Kids and Teens

Junior/Senior High Winter Camp 2022 (Camp Wrightwood)
Elementary Winter Camp 2022 (Camp Wrightwood)
Charlie Brown Christmas Camp 2021 (Lazy W Ranch)

COMMUNITY RESOURCES:
Support The Ending PUSHOUT Act
This summer, many United Methodist Women members and friends all across the country participated in the Mission u study of Pushout: The Criminalization of Black Girls in Schools by Dr. Monique Morris. We learned about the extreme racial disparities in discipline impacting Black girls. Addressing the deep roots of intersecting oppressions targeting Black girls is complex and long-term work. There is no simple one-and-done fix. But we can have an impact. One way we can help make change is by showing our support for an important federal bill, The Ending PUSHOUT Act, and by encouraging our loved ones to join us in action.

The Ending PUSHOUT Act of 2021 (H.R.2248): 

  • creates a $2.5 billion fund to incentivize schools and states to abandon unfair and discriminatory disciplinary policies and practices that push children of color out of the classroom; 

  • strengthens civil rights monitoring and enforcement; 

  • and establishes a task force to address school pushout, with particular attention to the needs of girls of color. 

Participating states and schools would be supported to invest in restorative practices, trauma-informed care, counselors, social workers and mental health professionals. Funds could not be used for police in schools. Please join us in supporting The Ending PUSHOUT Act. Already taken action in support of this bill? Multiply your impact by asking three friends to join you in taking action on this campaign.

Winter Shelters are open 11/1-3/31.
The Winter Shelter Program provides a warm place to sleep and access to supportive services to our unsheltered neighbors. If you or someone you know needs shelter visit LAHSA.org/winter-shelter or call 1 (800) 548-6047.

Metro will be offering free service on all bus and rail lines on the nights of Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve. mtro.la/iAty50HelVf

GreenFaith: Lauren K wanted to share this interfaith climate change group to pass along if anyone at church is interested: From coast to coast; continent to continent, our message is crystal clear: Our faiths call for an end to climate destruction and a sustainable and just future for all. https://greenfaith.org/

Holiday Hope Donation Drive
South Park BID and the Elleven HOA are partnering to distribute hygiene kits to people experiencing homelessness in South Park. We are looking for donations of new items such as toothbrushes, toothpaste, shower gel, lotion, deodorant, socks, and snacks. For a full list of items, click here. We ask that all donations be placed in gallon size Ziplock bags and dropped off at Elleven, 1111 S. Grand Ave, from December 2nd through December 20th. For more information on the Donation Drive, please contact the Elleven Management Office at (213) 749-9255.

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

Vaccines:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

ADVENT WREATH LIGHTING: Week 4 – Rick Rives

Week 4 – December 19, 2021

Watch and wait for Christ’s coming!

We light candles of hope, peace, joy, and love, remembering the promises of God with prayer.

Hear these words from the prophet Micah: (Micah 5:2-5a, NRSV)

But you, O Bethlehem of Ephrathah, who are one of the little clans of Judah, from you shall come forth for me one who is to rule in Israel, whose origin is from of old, from ancient days.

Therefore he shall give them up until the time when she who is in labor has brought forth; then the rest of his kindred shall return to the people of Israel.

And he shall stand and feed his flock in the strength of the Lord, in the majesty of the name of the Lord his God. And they shall live secure, for now he shall be great to the ends of the earth; and he shall be the one of peace.
We light this candle in hope. (Light the first candle.)
We light this candle in peace. (Light the second candle.)
We light this candle in joy. (Light the pink candle.)
We light this candle in love. (Light the fourth candle.)

Let us pray:
God, whose origin is from ancient of days, we seek your presence. Help us usher in the coming Christ Child during this season of holy waiting. Come in hope. Come in peace. Come in joy. Come in love.
Come, O Lord. Amen.

Verse 5 of O Come, O Come, Emmanuel

Joys and Concerns: We believe that the best way to bear our burdens is to share them with one another. You are invited to share your joys and concerns so that our community can hold these things in our hearts as we lift them to God together. 

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

Scripture: Luke 1:39-45; 46b-55, NRSV

Mary Visits Elizabeth

In those days Mary set out and went with haste to a Judean town in the hill country, where she entered the house of Zechariah and greeted Elizabeth. When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the child leapt in her womb. And Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit and exclaimed with a loud cry, ‘Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb. And why has this happened to me, that the mother of my Lord comes to me? For as soon as I heard the sound of your greeting, the child in my womb leapt for joy. And blessed is she who believed that there would be a fulfilment of what was spoken to her by the Lord.’

Mary’s Song of Praise

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

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

Sermon: ADVENT IV: A SEASON OF FULFILLED PROMISES: Blessings Which Aren’t- Rev. Mandy McDow

HOLY COMMUNION

Invitation to the Table: As we understand the Body of Christ to be inclusive, we understand God’s table of grace and fellowship can extend into our homes. As you’re able, bring your own elements to this time. Bread, Juice, Coffee, Muffins… the Body of Christ is comprised of wonder and mystery. Today, we celebrate that God can reach us where we are, even if we are not together.

The Great Mystery of our Faith
All: Christ has died
Christ is risen. 
Christ will come again.

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

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

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

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

MUSIC DURING COMMUNION: Joy to the World - El Dorado

Benediction Remember:
God is with you,
God is for you, 
God refuses to be God without you. 
And may all of God’s people say: Amen. 

Virtual Coffee Hour Begins now!
Immediately following worship on Zoom

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