Order of Worship for Pentecost Sunday, June 5, 2022: Signs On the Earth Below

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

Color Esperanza - featuring Diego Ruvalcaba - 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. 

TOP 5 ANNOUNCEMENTS

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:

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.

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.

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

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: Spirit of the Living God - 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.

The 21 victims of the Uvalde school shooting

• Makenna Lee Elrod, 10

• Layla Salazar, 11

• Maranda Mathis, 11

• Nevaeh Bravo, 10

• Jose Manuel Flores Jr., 10

• Xavier Lopez, 10

• Tess Marie Mata, 10

• Rojelio Torres, 10

• Eliahna “Ellie” Amyah Garcia, 9

• Eliahna A. Torres, 10

• Annabell Guadalupe Rodriguez, 10

• Jackie Cazares, 9

• Uziyah Garcia

• Jayce Carmelo Luevanos, 10

• Maite Yuleana Rodriguez, 10

• Jailah Nicole Silguero, 10

• Irma Garcia, 48

• Eva Mireles, 44

• Amerie Jo Garza, 10

• Alexandria “Lexi” Aniyah Rubio, 10

• Alithia Ramirez, 10

TESTIMONY: Rumana Fouzia Chodhury
Scripture: Acts 2:1-21 - The Coming of the Holy Spirit

When the day of Pentecost had come, they were all together in one place.And suddenly from heaven there came a sound like the rush of a violent wind, and it filled the entire house where they were sitting. Divided tongues, as of fire, appeared among them, and a tongue rested on each of them. All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other languages, as the Spirit gave them ability.

Now there were devout Jews from every nation under heaven living in Jerusalem. And at this sound the crowd gathered and was bewildered, because each one heard them speaking in the native language of each.Amazed and astonished, they asked, ‘Are not all these who are speaking Galileans? And how is it that we hear, each of us, in our own native language? Parthians, Medes, Elamites, and residents of Mesopotamia, Judea and Cappadocia, Pontus and Asia, Phrygia and Pamphylia, Egypt and the parts of Libya belonging to Cyrene, and visitors from Rome, both Jews and proselytes, Cretans and Arabs—in our own languages we hear them speaking about God’s deeds of power.’ All were amazed and perplexed, saying to one another, ‘What does this mean?’ But others sneered and said, ‘They are filled with new wine.’

Peter Addresses the Crowd

But Peter, standing with the eleven, raised his voice and addressed them: ‘Men of Judea and all who live in Jerusalem, let this be known to you, and listen to what I say. Indeed, these are not drunk, as you suppose, for it is only nine o’clock in the morning. No, this is what was spoken through the prophet Joel:
“In the last days it will be, God declares,
that I will pour out my Spirit upon all flesh,
   and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy,
and your young men shall see visions,
   and your old men shall dream dreams.
Even upon my slaves, both men and women,
   in those days I will pour out my Spirit;
     and they shall prophesy.
And I will show portents in the heaven above
   and signs on the earth below,
     blood, and fire, and smoky mist.
The sun shall be turned to darkness
   and the moon to blood,
     before the coming of the Lord’s great and glorious day.
Then everyone who calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved.”

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

Sermon: Signs on the Earth Below - 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: Holy Spirit - 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. 

Closing: Spirit in the Sky - El Dorado

Donate

Order of Worship for Ascension Sunday, May 22, 2022: A Season of Testimony - Looking Within using the Labyrinth

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

Fly Away - El Dorado

Come, Thou Fount - 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. 

TOP 5 ANNOUNCEMENTS

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

The Women United in Faith (formerly UMW) of Los Angeles First United Methodist Church at Assembly 2022!

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 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.

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

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: Dwell - 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: Stephen Folds
Scripture: Luke 24:44-53, NRSV

When he had gone out, Jesus said, ‘Now the Son of Man has been glorified, and God has been glorified in him. If God has been glorified in him, God will also glorify him in himself and will glorify him at once. Little children, I am with you only a little longer. You will look for me; and as I said to the Jews so now I say to you, “Where I am going, you cannot come.” I give you a new commandment, that you love one another. Just as I have loved you, you also should love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.’

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

Sermon: Preparation for the Leaving- 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: 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. 

Donate

Order of Worship for Sunday, May 15, 2022: A Season of Testimony - Stephen Folds

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

This Joy - 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. 

TOP 5 ANNOUNCEMENTS

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

BLESSING FOR THE WOMEN UNITED IN FAITH (UMW)

God be in your head, and in your understanding.
God be in your eyes, and in your looking.
God be in your mouth, and in your speaking.
God be in your heart, and in your thinking.
God be at your end, and at your departing.

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 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.

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

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: Dwell - 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: Stephen Folds
Scripture: John 13:31-35, NRSV

When he had gone out, Jesus said, ‘Now the Son of Man has been glorified, and God has been glorified in him. If God has been glorified in him, God will also glorify him in himself and will glorify him at once. Little children, I am with you only a little longer. You will look for me; and as I said to the Jews so now I say to you, “Where I am going, you cannot come.” I give you a new commandment, that you love one another. Just as I have loved you, you also should love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.’

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

Sermon: Love One Another - 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 Festival of the Christian Home, May 8, 2022: A Season of Testimony - Olusheyi Banjo

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

Great Is Thy Faithfulness - 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. 

TOP 5 ANNOUNCEMENTS

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:

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 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.

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

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: Home - 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: Olusheyi Banjo

Scripture: Acts 9: 36-43, NRSV

Now in Joppa there was a disciple whose name was Tabitha, which in Greek is Dorcas. She was devoted to good works and acts of charity. At that time she became ill and died. When they had washed her, they laid her in a room upstairs. Since Lydda was near Joppa, the disciples, who heard that Peter was there, sent two men to him with the request, ‘Please come to us without delay.’ So Peter got up and went with them; and when he arrived, they took him to the room upstairs. All the widows stood beside him, weeping and showing tunics and other clothing that Dorcas had made while she was with them. Peter put all of them outside, and then he knelt down and prayed. He turned to the body and said, ‘Tabitha, get up.’ Then she opened her eyes, and seeing Peter, she sat up. He gave her his hand and helped her up. Then calling the saints and widows, he showed her to be alive. This became known throughout Joppa, and many believed in the Lord. Meanwhile he stayed in Joppa for some time with a certain Simon, a tanner.

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

Sermon: Get Up! - Rev. Mandy McDow

BLESSING OF FAMILIES LITURGY

BLESSING OF OUR INDIVIDUAL CREATION       

Fathering God, you have searched us and known us. You know when we lie down and when we rise up; you discern our thoughts from far away.

Mothering God, it was you who formed our inward parts, you who knit us together in our mother’s womb. We praise you, for we are fearfully and wonderfully made!

Holy Son, you have come into the world as the Word made flesh and dwelling among us, as a constant and abiding reminder that God is always with us, even to the ends of the earth. You are the light that has shined in the darkness, and the darkness did not overcome it. 

Creating Spirit: Where can we go that you are not with us? If we ascend to heaven, you are there. If we make our bed in the depths, you are there. If we perceive the darkness overwhelming us, we know that even the darkness is not dark to you; the night is as bright as the day, for darkness is as light to you. You hem us in, behind and before, and lay your hand upon us. When we come to the end, you are still with us. 

Let us pray:

Loving God, in your wisdom you have created us and given us many gifts.  Today, we thank you for all that we mean to each other and to our friends and families.  We thank you for the love that has brought us to this time and place, and for your love which abides to tie us all together. Where you are, O God, there is love. Amen.

BLESSING OF OUR RELATIONSHIPS         

God, in your wisdom and love, you have created us and called us good. You have created us in your image, and blessed us as men and women. Today we celebrate the joy that we have found in relationship with one another. As you have created us and called us good, so have you said that it is not good that we should be alone, so you have given us helpers as partners. You have given us choice in who we build our relationships with, and we are able to say to one another, as Ruth said to Naomi: 

          Where you go, I will go; where you lodge, I will lodge;
          Your people shall be my people, and your God, my God. 

Let us pray:

God, your strength is sufficient for us all. We have committed ourselves one to the other in your presence, so we pray that you will continue to be with us in the unfolding of our future.  Give us strength and courage in times of difficulty, wisdom and love in times of opportunity and challenge, and the sharing of joy in times of happiness and success.  May we continue to grow in your love; through the power of Jesus Christ. Amen.

BLESSING OF OUR FRIENDSHIPS AND FAMILIES OF CHOICE                                                                            

Incarnate Christ: You have modelled to us what it is to be in relationship with one another. You have broken bread with the weary, comforted the lonely, healed the sick, and wept with friends. We see in your witness what it means to love one another as God has loved us. We thank you for calling us friends, because you have made known to us everything that you have heard from our Father in heaven. Thank you for sharing in relationship with us as equals, and help us to continue to love our friends as you have loved us. Bless us as we form relationships with one another that, as we speak, our souls will be bound up in one another, so that we may love our friends as our own souls, just as Jonathan loved David. 

Let us Pray:

God of friends and families, we are linked together in a community of friendship and support.  We pray for one another. We remember those who cannot be with us today. May we all continue to share in your gifts of love, strength, courage and wisdom, and to know your joy.  Give us growing understanding, sympathy with each other's difficulties, patience with each other's faults, and grace to walk in your ways. Amen. 

BLESSING FOR FAMILIES WITH CHILDREN      

Creator Spirit: You have worked in us to make us open to loving one another in selfless and life-giving ways. For some of us this means the responsibility and joy of raising children. For these lives, which have touched us and blessed us, we thank you. Today we bring to you our children in order that they may be blessed as Christ blessed the children of his day saying, “Let the little children come to me; do not stop them; for it is to such as these that the kingdom of God belongs.” And he took them up in his arms and blessed them. Help us to bless them as they have blessed us. 

Let us pray: 

Loving God: We come today carrying children and youth in our hearts – the children we brought into this world, the children we parent, our grandchildren, nieces, nephews, Godchildren, mentees, the children we care for in our work, and the children we speak out for in our witness. Lord, help us not to be so preoccupied with our purposes that we fail to hear their voices or see their special vision of truth. Keep us with them, ready to listen and to love even as you have loved us, your grown-up and sometimes wayward children. Amen. 

THE ANOINTING

All are welcome to come forward to be anointed individually. If you like, you may come as an individual, or with your spouse or partner, children, or with friends and family of choice. All are welcomed. All are loved. 

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: Blest Be the Tie That Binds - 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, 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. 

TOP 5 ANNOUNCEMENTS

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:

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

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:

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

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

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