The Messenger
April 7, 2014 Volume XXIV, No. 4 Nationalchurch.org
From passion to darkness to joy… Experience Holy Week at The Metropolitan Church
Palm/Passion Sunday Worship at Metropolitan Memorial* 9am & 11:15am - Procession with EcoPalms and Children’s Choirs Worship at Wesley* 9:30am & 11am - Breakfast & Worship 5312 Conn. Ave., NW Worship at Crossroads* 5:30pm - St. Luke’s Mission Center 3655 Calvert St., NW Maundy Thursday Worship at Metropolitan Memorial* 7:30pm Worship with Communion Good Friday Services Worship at Metropolitan Memorial* Noon–3pm “Seven Last Words” Worship at Wesley* 7:30pm - 5312 Conn. Ave., NW Easter Vigil 9:30pm - 12am at St. Sophia 2815 36th St., NW Meet at Metropolitan at 9:15pm Easter Sunday– April 20 Sunrise Service at Kay Spiritual Life 6:15am - 4400 Mass. Ave., NW Worship at Metropolitan Memorial* 9am & 11:15am - Festival Choirs, Brass, Timpani, and Handbells Brunch after each service Rockin’ Gospel Worship at Wesley* 11am - 5312 Conn. Ave., NW Worship at Crossroads* 5:30pm - St. Luke’s Mission Center 3655 Calvert St., NW *Free Childcare Available
Dear Friends,
Seven Days, Seven Holy Week Services, 12 Different Worship Styles, Opportunities in 3 Locations. The week begins with Passion/Palm Sunday and ends with the “three days” (also called the Triduum, from sunset on Thursday to sunset on Easter Day) which mark Jesus’ trial, death, and resurrection. These days feature not only the drama of the triumphal entry, trial, last supper, and crucifixion but also poignant prayers and prophetic teachings of our Lord. John’s gospel devotes eight of its twenty-one chapters to this week alone! Worship throughout Holy Week invites the congregation to think of themselves as participants in a dramatic reenactment of scriptural events. Thus, on Palm Sunday our children process while shouting “Hosanna!” and waving palms. Or, in the reading of the passion narrative, the choir or congregation may be invited to speak the words, “Crucify him! Crucify him!” These participatory acts help the congregation sense the significance of the narratives for what they teach us about Jesus’ ministry, about God’s being and character, and about the nature and scope of redemption in Christ (adapted from The Worship Sourcebook, Calvin Institute). Maundy Thursday at Metropolitan with Foot Washing and Holy Communion: When we worship on Maundy Thursday, we remember the last evening that Christ spent with his disciples in the upper room. Three major events make up this evening: he washed the disciple’s feet, he instituted the Lord’s Supper, and he gave them the “new” commandment to love one another. “Maundy” comes from the Latin “mandatum novum” referring to the new commandment in John 13:34. There will be a dramatic enactment of a foot washing during the scripture reading and the congregation will be invited to participate in the side chapels, if they wish. We also share Holy Communion as part of this worship. We end worship in silence as the cross is dragged to the altar and Jesus kneels in the garden. Good Friday: This Friday is called “good” because Jesus’ death provides redemption for the world. We gather at the cross to remember his sorrow and give thanks. Historically, Good Friday worship drew on three themes: recalling the events of Jesus’ suffering and death; opening up the meaning of these events and increasing our understanding of the grace of God, the atonement for sin, and the redemption made available; and, deepening our devotion and love for Christ who paid the ultimate price for us and our salvation. (cont. on pg. 2)
Reflections from Charlie on his Upcoming Sabbatical
In May 2014, I am embarking on the experience of a lifetime – a four month Sabbatical from May 4 to September 7. I have been at Metropolitan for seven years, and am tremendously excited to have this opportunity and grateful to Metropolitan for submitting a grant to support my Sabbatical through the Lilly Endowment 2013 Clergy Renewal Program Grant (see story on page 3 for an explanation of this Program). I wanted to let you all know something about my summer plans, and also talk about the exciting opportunities that the grant has made possible for you over the summer. As many of you know, two of the disciplines that have fed my soul over the past 10-20 years have been playing a Japanese flute called the shakuhachi and practicing a martial art called aikido. Our Lilly grant is giving me the opportunity to richly explore both of those disciplines. My Sabbath will begin with a month in Japan, the core of which will be a two week trip with my shakuhachi teacher, grandmaster Ronnie Nyogetsu Seldin and several fellow students. I will be in Tokyo a week before this trip, practicing with two other grandmasters, and will stay an additional week in Kyoto after Ronnie leaves, practicing with a third grandmaster. Throughout this month, I will also practice aikido at dojos around the country, including the birthplace of aikido – Hombu dojo in Tokyo. There will be other shorter excursions throughout the summer. I will have two weeks in a shakuhachi meditation retreat at a Buddhist monastery outside Vancouver led by shakuhachi maker and player Al Ramos. There will be a week of aikido camp at Catholic University, and a week of shakuhachi camp in Philidelphia, as well as traveling to NYC for some shakuhachi practice with my teacher. (Cont. on pg. 3)
Life at the Metropolitan Church From passion to darkness to joy… Experience Holy Week at The Metropolitan Church (cont. from pg. 1) Seven Last Words at Metropolitan: Between the hours of noon - 3pm, the hours of darkness while Christ was on the cross, we offer a service, remembering Jesus’ seven last words. Each 25 minute segment includes prayer, scripture, hymns, music, silence and a meditation offered by a diverse collection of preachers from different faith traditions from the Washington Metropolitan area. You are welcome to come and go or remain for the afternoon, as your time permits. Good Friday evening at Wesley: We also celebrate Good Friday with a service of Tenebrae in which increasing darkness in the worship space with the extinguishing of candles, reminds us of the deepening shadows of suffering that Jesus experienced. It is a somber service, including an invitation to hammer a nail into the cross, as we suffer with Jesus during his final hours. Easter Vigil: An ancient tradition of the church, the Paschal Vigil or the First Service of Easter, is traditionally held in the last hours of Saturday night, creating a sense of waiting and longing, through the long, dark night. We have the opportunity this year to join with our Orthodox brothers and sisters
at St. Sophia Cathedral to wait through the last hours of Holy Saturday and share the first Alleluia’s of Easter. It will be an experience—surrounded by gorgeous iconography, music and incense—culminating in the Easter light being passed out to the entire congregation. Easter Sunday: All the hopes of Christians are realized in the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, making Easter the most celebrative day of the church year. The Easter morning service is a time of joy, celebration, and renewal. In contrast to the somber starkness of Holy Week, on Easter the worship space is bright and celebratory, including the liturgical colors of white and gold. Music and songs reflect the full joy of the victorious Christian faith because of Christ’s resurrection. Since the good news of Easter can hardly be contained in a single day’s celebration, Easter is the first of fifty days of Eastertide, the “Great Fifty Days” that lead to Pentecost. This season is designed for extended celebration, for exploring the ramifications of Easter for the redemption of all creation, and for joyful Christian living. - Patrisha House
We Are An Easter People! Easter Brunch Following Worship - Sunday, April 20
We at Metropolitan have a long established tradition of celebrating Christ’s Resurrection with joyous worship, music and celebration in community with a festive brunch. At the same time that we receive into our hearts that message of new birth and renewal accompanied by the hyacinths and daffodils that have slumbered over the dark days of winter, we also give up our fasts and penance and indulge in a naughty brunch. We invite our members and guests to join in this communal feasting after each service. We gather in the Great Hall for a sit down meal together. If you can assist the Caring Team with the brunch, contact Suzanne Forsyth, 202-320-6274; suzanneforsyth@aol.com
Remembering Others at Easter
Remember family and friends this Easter by donating Altar flowers! I wish to donate: # ____Easter Lillies ($30 each) # ____Hydrangeas ($30 each) # ____Mums ($30 each) $ _____Toward the Cut Flowers In Memory of:________________________________________ In Honor of:__________________________________________ oI will pick up these flowers following 11:15am worship oI wish to donate these flowers to the church for distribution to church members by the Visitor Corp All donations will be listed in the Easter Sunday Bulletin. The deadline for gifts is Monday, April 14. Please drop off or mail your form and payment to the church office. Orders cannot be taken by phone.
My Name: _____________________________
Phone: ______________
Address: ______________________________
Total Enclosed: $___________
Metropolitan Memorial United Methodist Church, 3401 Nebraska Ave., NW, Washington, DC 20016 2
Life at the Metropolitan Church Reflections from Charlie on his Upcoming Sabbatical
(Cont. from pg. 1) And, of course, there will be some wonderful family time throughout the summer, which will include a family vacation in Vancouver (following my retreat), and possibly London, and lots of time hiking and playing with Julia and Joshua! So I am very excited about this time and very grateful to you for providing it. What is happening at Metropolitan while I am on my sabbatical? I am also very excited about the plans that we have prepared for the church, and funded by the same grant. Highlights include:
Rev. Chris Holmes (son of former Senior Pastor at Metropolitan Memorial, Rev. Dr. William Holmes) will be leading a preaching series on Spirituality and the Arts from June 15 to July 6. On the Sundays of June 15, June 22, June 29, and July 6, Chris will explore with us the intersection of Spirituality and the Arts, Art and Architecture, the Art of Movement, and the Art of Pottery. On the Wednesday nights following these Sunday sermons, Chris has planned some wonderful, hands-on programs that will reflect the theme of spirituality and the arts. These are intended to be intergenerational and interactive, and will include the creation of a mural of creation on moveable panels. No artistic skills are required and all are welcome! In the weeks following Chris’s time with us, we will have programs led by three international leaders in mindfulness, meditation, and contemplation. Sharon Salzberg will do a program at Metropolitan on the Foundations of Mindfulness (maintaining a moment-by-moment awareness of our thoughts, feelings, bodily sensations, and the surrounding environment) on Saturday July 12 and she will be in our pulpit on Sunday, July 13. Sharon is a co-founder of the Insight Meditation Society in Barre, MA, has more than 40 years of experience in this field, and is internationally recognized as a powerful teacher. She has blessed us here at Metropolitan with her teaching several times. Tara Brach will lead a workshop on Freeing the Heart on the afternoon of Saturday, August 9, from 1 to 5. Tara will lead us in an investigation of the ways we habitually cut ourselves
off from feeling connected, compassionate, and at home with ourselves and others. Tara is an acclaimed meditation teacher, clinical psychologist, author, and leading western teacher of Buddhist meditation, emotional healing and spiritual awakening. She has more than 35 years of experience and is the founder and senior teacher of the Insight Meditation Community of Washington. Dr. Jack Kornfield will lead a one day training in Buddhist Psychology for Westerners on August 16, from 9:30 to 5:00, at Metropolitan. This will be a day of teachings and mindful meditations on love, consciousness, healing, and the nature of the mind. The day-long training combines practical examples, teaching stories, and case studies. Jack has taught meditation internationally since 1974 as one of the first American teachers to introduce Buddhist mindfulness practice to the West. Jack is one of the co-founders of the Insight Meditation Society in Barre, MA, as well as a founding teacher of the Spirit Rock Center in Woodacre, California. All of this is to emphasize: this is not intended to be a summer off for anyone! I am going to be exploring and growing, and urge you all to take full advantage of the opportunities that we are providing for your own growth and exploration. I would like us all to join together in September as richer, more centered, and rejuvenated disciples! I want to underscore my gratitude to Metropolitan for this extraordinary opportunity. I will miss being in ministry with you over the summer, but look forward to hearing your stories of learning, growing, and practicing a wonderful spectrum of spirituality practices. I also look forward to sharing stories of ways in which I have reflected and grown in my time away. It is a privilege to be your pastor and I am excited about the many creative ways in which we will all be in a period of reflection and renewal. I am confident that these renewal experiences will be transformative for our church family and for me. Blessings,
The Lilly Endowment Awards Grant to Metropolitan!
Following a national competition, the Metropolitan Church was awarded a Lilly Endowment 2013 National Clergy Renewal Program Grant for Charlie’s sabbatical. Charlie worked with a small group in designing the application as well as soliciting input from all of the programmatic and administrative areas of the church. Metropolitan was one of 87 congregations located in 31 states and the District of Columbia to receive a grant. The grant allows congregations to support their pastors with the gift of extended time away from their ministerial duties and responsibilities. Pastors use their respite from congregational leadership for reflection and renewal, which often includes travel, scholarly research, and immersive experiences with different cultures and traditions. In addition, the grant provides funding for the church to engage in its own Sabbath programs this summer. Pastors in the 2013 program represent a diverse group that includes Protestant, Catholic, nondenominational, and multidenominational congregations. Since Lilly Endowment introduced the National Clergy Renewal Program grants in 2000, more than 1,800 congregations across the nation have participated in the program. The grants recognize the tremendous amount of energy, time, and leadership that pastors invest in their congregations. The Lilly Endowment intends for this program to enable pastors to live for a while at a different pace and in a new environment, in Sabbath time and space. The program provides a way for congregations to express their appreciation for their leader’s service and respect for his or her health and energy for continued ministry. We will have a send-off for Charlie on May 4 and a welcome back celebration on September 7. We look forward to sharing the journey with Charlie through postings on the blog that he will create. We will also have wonderful stories to share with him about the programs at Metropolitan that will occur while he is away. (see the end of Charlie’s reflection article above for highlights of those programs).
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Life at the Metropolitan Church
Congratulations!
To Gail and Don Crane on the birth of their grandson, Benjamin Matthew Clark, on March 12.
Metropolitan Book Club Monday, April 21, 7pm, Parlor
Due to our cancelled March meeting, we will discuss Sue Monk Kidd’s, The Invention of Wings at our April meeting. All are welcome. Contacts: Suzanne Clewell, reader1021@aol.com or Joan Topalian, jtopa62045@gmail.com.
Living Your Personal Legend: A Creative Life Workshop Tuesdays, April 29, May 6, 13, 20, 7pm Wesley UMC*
According to The Alchemist, an international bestseller, we all have something we long to accomplish called our Personal Legend. Are you ready to live yours? In this workshop you’ll take a life-changing journey through the arts, encounter myths, legends and archetypes, discover the power of your own story, and learn how to use it as a tool for living your authentic self! Register at palatinehillproductions.com/ coaching-and-workshops.html. *5312 Connecticut Ave., NW.
Annual Commitment Campaign
Please give careful and prayerful consideration to how you will support the ministries of our Church in the coming year. If you haven’t sumbitted your 2014 pledge yet, you can do it online at nationalchurch.org/Giving/ Annual_Campaign or fill out a pledge card found in the attendance pads in the pews. Your continuing generous support is vital to our church’s mission and ministry! Questions? Contact Bill Potts, wpotts@nationalchurch. org or 202-363-4900, ext. 101.
Elevator Repair News
Exciting news! The elevator repair company is completing repairs on our elevator. We are anticipating a two week repair window for this stage. Please be in prayer that the repairs progress safely and efficiently!
AU To Begin Construction at New Mexico and Nebraska
American University will be converting the 900 space parking lot at the corner of Nebraska and New Mexico (directly across from the Metropolitan parking lot) beginning May 19, 2014. The University will be converting the space into a number of dormitories, classrooms, and administrative buildings as well as an underground parking garage. The project is slated for a minimum of 2 years of construction. While not directly impacting Metropolitan’s weekend presence, there may be a tremendous impact during the week (M-F) during the day. We frequently use the New Mexico/Nebraska parking lot as overflow for special occasions and on Sundays. Unfortunately, that space will no longer be available during the construction project. We are, though, working with the AU leadership to secure overflow parking at another of their many parking areas. We will be hosting representatives from the AU Construction Leadership Team for an informational meeting on April 27 at the 10:10am study hour in the Great Hall. The team will share with us the details of the expansion, a bit of the potential impact to the Metropolitan campus, and we will talk about the alternatives for parking and such during the construction period. Please join us in the Great Hall on April 27 at 10:10am for this informational meeting.
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The Arts at the Metropolitan Church JAZZ@WESLEY Saturday, April 26, 4:30pm 8:30pm, Wesley*
Jazz@Wesley and EastRiverJazz in celebration of Jazz Appreciation Month presents "A Celebration Of Ellington" featuring Dr. Luvenia George of the Duke Ellington Society in a free Marcia McIntyre & forum with "Ellington’s Sacred Music" YaShauna Swan (violin), Leslie Delaine from 4:30pm - 5:30pm and the Synchronicity String Ensemble, a classi(viola), Elise Cuffy (cello), Steve Perkins & cal string quartet with African-based funky percussion, in performance at Leroy (Boogie) 6:30pm - 8:30pm featuring Ellington Greer (percussion) selections. Dr. Luvenia A. George is a music educator and scholar and member of the Duke Ellington Society and the Program Coordinator of the Duke Ellington Youth Project at the National Museum of American History, Smithsonian Institution. Author of Teaching the Music of Six Different Cultures, a pioneering work in world music education and A Music Education National Conference (MENC) Hall of Fame nominee and independent scholar, her research includes the sacred music of Duke Ellington, the piano rags of Eubie Blake, the songs of Lucie E. Campbell for the National Baptist Convention USA, Inc., and the incorporation of ethnomusicology in music education curricula and the public sector. She is immediate Past President of Nu State, the Washington DC chapter of the Delta Kappa Gamma Society International. Tickets also available online at www.instantseats.com. $10 entry I $7 seniors I 12 & under free. Bring a nonperishable food item or a lightly used coat to jazz up someone else’s life. *5312 Connecticut Ave., NW.
Let’s Celebrate Our Choral Scholars Sunday, April 27, 11:15am
You may have noticed four young faces in the Chancel Choir. They are our Choral Scholars: Vince Kovach, tenor; Catie DeLiso, alto; Arielle Finegold, soprano; and Dave D’Auria, bass. Arielle, Catie, and Dave have been with us since last fall, and Vince joined us in January. Our intention was to bring college students into the Chancel Choir to give them an opportunity to learn some of our great choral music, gain wider experience in choral singing, benefit from mentoring by Bruce Caviness and the section leaders, and—not least—a stipend to encourage them to really love singing. What we did not anticipate was how much they would give us in return. We expected good voices, but we found they all have gorgeous voices and excellent musicianship. We knew these students would be fun to have around, but we did not foresee the extent of the joy and dedication these young people have given us. We are truly blessed to have them. Two of the scholars will be leaving us. Arielle is about to graduate from American University, and Dave will spend next year studying at the London School of Economics. We want to send them off with our love and appreciation, and we also want to recognize Catie and Vince and thank them all for giving us so much. Please join us at the 11:15am service to recognize and celebrate our scholars and to enjoy some special music from them.
Soprano Millicent Scarlett Sings Again Sunday, May 4 3pm, Sanctuary
Metropolitan has twice had the privilege of hearing the beautiful voice of soprano Millicent Scarlett: in a solo recital in October 2011 and, earlier that year, in organist Eileen Guenther's program "The Power of Spirituals." She will sing again for us on Sunday afternoon, May 4, at 3:00. Her program, accompanied by pianist Jeffery Watson, will include arias by Verdi and Korngold, a Canadian song cycle by Patrick Cardy, and songs by Rorem, Rachmaninoff, and others. She will also sing some spirituals, accompanied by bassist Herman Burney. Ms. Scarlett is a voice professor and the voice area coordinator at George Washington University's music department. Early in her career she was a national semi-finalist in the Metropolitan Opera auditions and made her operatic debut in "Porgy and Bess" with Opera Illinois. She continues to display her musical artistry on the recital, orchestral, and operatic stages. If you like to hear beautiful voices, you certainly won't want to miss this one. If you're not sure, come and give yourself the opportunity to expand your pleasure quotient! The recital is free (a free-will offering will be taken for the performer), and there will be a reception afterward. This will be the last concert of the Arts Council's current season. Next season will begin on September 28 with the Chicago Piano Duo.
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“In Genesis, the first book of the Bible, god is presented as speaking the creation into existence. God speaks the word and it happens: heaven and earth, ocean and stream, trees and grass, birds and fish, animals and humans. Everything, seen and unseen, called into being by God’s spoken word. “In deliberate parallel to the opening words of Genesis, John presents God as speaking salvation into existence. This time God’s word takes on human form and enters history in the person of Jesus. Jesus speaks the word and it happens: forgiveness and judgment, healing and illumination, mercy and grace, joy and love, freedom and resurrection. Everything broken and fallen, sinful and diseased, called into salvation by God’s spoken word. “For, somewhere along the line things went wrong (Genesis tells that story, too) and are in desperate need of fixing. The fixing is all accomplished by speaking – God speaking salvation into being in the person of Jesus. Jesus, in this account, not only speaks the word of God; he is the Word of God. “Keeping company with these words, we begin to realize that our words are more important than we ever supposed. Saying “I believe,” for instance, marks the difference between life and death. Our words accrue dignity and gravity in conversations with Jesus. For Jesus doesn’t impose salvation as a solution; he narrates salvation into being through leisurely conversation, intimate personal relationships, compassionate responses, passionate prayer, and – putting it all together – a sacrificial death. We don’t casually walk away from words like that.” Eugene Peterson’s introduction to John, in his translation of the Bible, The Message.
The Metro Players Present
The Gospel of
John
with Bob Benn as the Evangelist One actor. Two acts. Seventy-two stories. 19,000 words. Tickets: $10 for Adults; $5 for Students & Seniors
Friday, April 25, 2014 at 8:00 PM
Wesley United Methodist Church 5312 Connecticut Avenue, NW Saturday, April 26, 2014 at 5:30 PM
St. Lukes | Crossroads 3655 Calvert Street, NW
Sunday, April 27, 2014 at 2:00 PM
Metropolitan Memorial United Methodist Church 3401 Nebraska Avenue, NW
Service and Advocacy 2014 Home Repair Day Saturday, April 26, 8:30 am – 4 pm
News from the Marriage Equality Task Force Stop the Trials Letter Writing
Each spring, on the last Saturday in April, teams of volunteers are at work across the city repairing the homes of low-income, elderly, and disabled homeowners. For the past twenty years, the Metropolitan Church community has taken part in the annual Rebuilding Together (formerly known as Christmas in April) workday, sponsoring a house and providing a team of volunteers.
Our letter to Bishop McLee, which can be seen at nationalchurch.org/stop/Clergy_ Trial_Materials, has been sent with over 100 signatures! Thank YOU for helping witness to the support many United Methodist Churches give to Marriage Equality and the hope that our denomination will stop putting clergy on trial for conducting same gender marriage ceremonies. Stop by our table in the Office Lobby on Sunday for talking points you can use in your individual letters to the Bishop of your choice.
This year, our team will work on a home located at 527 Lebaum Street, SE, Washington, DC 20032. The work will include painting, moving furniture, very light carpentry, cleaning, and gardening. NO SPECIAL SKILLS ARE NEEDED. All volunteers must be at least 14 years of age. No children under 14 are allowed on the worksite.
Trial Process Outlines to be Used by Reconciling Ministries Network.
You can volunteer for the whole day, or just the morning or afternoon. Lunch will be provided. Sign up through our online volunteer scheduling system at nationalchurch.org/ servenow or contact Ann Michel, amichel@wesleyseminary.edu.
Campus Kitchen Project - New Schedule! Fridays and Saturdays, 11:30am, St. Luke’s Mission Center*
Volunteers are needed for our Friday shifts (11:30am – 3:30pm) and Saturday shifts (11:30am - 3:30pm) to help plan, prep, cook and deliver meals for those in need. To volunteer, register at nationalchurch.org/servenow. *3655 Calvert St., NW.
The Marriage Equality Task Force produced a summary outline of the clergy trial process set forth in the United Methodist Discipline, the “law” of the church, and also a more detailed statement of that process. When Matt Berryman, Executive Director of the Reconciling Ministries Network, visited Metropolitan he reviewed the outlines and asked permission to distribute them throughout the Network. The Task Force gladly granted permission. Those outlines are available at nationalchurch.org/stop. Matt also sent some questions that are often asked their regional organizers and asked us to draft some answers. When the draft is finalized, it too will be posted on the website.
Reconciling Stoles Available
Reconciling stoles continue to be available at the Marriage Equality Task Force table on Sundays in the lower lobby. The Task Force urges members of the congregation to purchase a stole and wear it at Easter services as a witness to the new life available to all, regardless of race, gender, nationality, or sexual orientation. To help make stoles, contact Ellen Bachman, ellenbachman@comcast.net. Sewing machine and machine skills not essential!
Adult Study Soup and Study Wednesday, April 9 and 23, 6pm - Dinner l 7pm - Classes
Nourish your body and soul with Soup and Study. As always, each session is free-standing. Prior participation is not required. The soups are delicious! Wednesday, April 9 • Creation Care with Jane Ward. Special guest speaker: Joelle Novey, Director of Greater Washington Interfaith Power and Light, a coalition of congregations and religious organizations saving energy and responding to the climate crisis. • Making Conflict Constructive with Chris Geyer. This class teaches skills to make the conflicts we all experience less anxiety-producing and more productive. • Bible Study with Charlie Parker and Bob Olson. Join their ongoing study of themes in the Hebrew Bible. Wednesday, April 23 • Unlocking the Power of Prayer with Kris Oberdick. This new four-session class will study types of prayer, needs for prayer, Lectio Divina, and relationship to God in prayer. • Creation Care with Jane Ward. Special guest speakers: Jon White and Kelsey White. Jon is Oceanographer of the U.S. Navy. Kelsey will present her award-winning senior project on acidification of the oceans. • Making Conflict Constructive with Chris Geyer. Chris’s final session will offer aids and resources for moving forward. • Bible Study with Charlie Parker and Bob Olson. Join their ongoing study of themes in the Hebrew Bible. Coming in May • Ancient stories about Jesus not in the Bible, with Maynard Moore.
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Caring Caring Team launching new Initiative: The Center for Life Transitions Reverend Barbara Green, Minister of Life Transitions
Our Caring Ministry team under the leadership of Suzanne Forsyth, is launching an exciting new initiative, The Center for Life Transitions. This is another way that we can support members of our community more systematically as they go through major transitions in their lives. This new initiative will develop support structures for life transitions, which might include providing resources on the church’s website, offering educational programs, partnering with other members who have gone through similar transitions, or offering support groups. Possible transitions that could be included in the Center for Life Transitions include the birth of a child, job loss, getting a new job, divorce, disability, death of a spouse/partner, aging parents, and end of life. These transitions occur across a broad age spectrum and the goal is to be inviting and helpful to both men and women in life transitions. Rev. Barbara Green will be serving as the Minister of Life Transitions under the Caring ministries. Barbara brings a wealth of academic and life experiences to this endeavor. Metropolitan’s Director of Learning for the past two years, she developed a robust program of adult study, specifically through our Soup and Study classes. An ordained Presbyterian minister, she and her family have actively participated in the life of Metropolitan Church for almost thirty years. Before coming on staff at Metropolitan, Barbara directed the Center for Theology and Public Policy at Wesley Theological Seminary. Under her leadership, the Center founded the Greater Washington Interfaith Power and Light. Earlier in her career, she served on staff at the National Council of Churches in Berlin, Germany, where she intensely studied the life and work of Dietrich Bonhoeffer.
Weekly Meditation Practice Wednesdays, 8:30am, Sanctuary
Guided and walking meditation that nurtures a sense of inner peace, calm and balance. Under the guidance of Betty Rogers, participants share an opportunity for health and emotional benefits that include receptivity to the presence of God’s Spirit, increased self-awareness, and skills to manage stress. All are welcome. Contact Drema McAllister-Wilson, dwilson@nationalchurch.org or 202.363.4900, ext. 104.
Prayer Shawl Ministry Tuesday, April 22, 1:30pm, Parlor
Enjoy a time of knitting, crocheting, fellowship, ministry and fun in the Parlor! Interested in joining? Contact: Barbara Tate, Bdtate@verizon. net.
AARP Meeting Monday, April 28, Vestry, Noon
Join us as James Shepherd, Director of Preservation and Facilities at the Washington National Cathedral, will tell and show us about the earthquake damage and the status of repairs to the cathedral. Social time is at 12:30pm and the meeting starts at 1pm. Refreshments will be served.
Lunch and More: Feasting, Fellowship and Fun Thursday, April 15, Noon, Great Hall
Join us every third Thursday of the month for “Lunch and More!” After eating together, you can choose to play bridge, canasta, board games or watch a faith-based movie followed by discussion. We will open with a short hymn-sing. The movie for April 15 will be Young at Heart. A documentary about a chorus of senior citizens from Massachusetts who cover songs by Jimi Hendrix, Coldplay, Sonic Youth, and other unexpected musicians. Questions or input, contact Phyllis Kokus or Mary Jo Marchant.
Gentle Yoga: New Series Thursdays, Great Hall
Stretch and strengthen with basic yoga poses.* $100/8 classes; $80/(65+). Drop-in with instructor’s permission: $15/ class. Contact Catherine Gunnerson, cathryn@yogawellbeing.com. *The ability to get up and down from the floor is necessary for this class (you may use a chair). Sponsored by the Congregational Care Committee.
Caregiving Opportunities
Greeters are needed the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of each month from 1:15pm – 3pm for Club Memory (a social organization for people with memory impairments and their caregivers). Visitors are needed to visit homebound members of Metropolitan Memorial who would benefit from a caring presence. Orientation provided. Many rewards will be received! For both opportunities, contact Drema McAllister-Wilson, Minister of Congregational Care, dwilson@nationalchurch.org, 202.363.4900, ext. 19.
Widowed Persons Outreach
This bereavement support group meets monthly at Metropolitan and is sponsored by Sibley Seniors Association. If you know someone who is recently widowed, please share this support group. Call 202-537-4942 for more information.
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Youth Ministries
Youth in Mission
We had a wonderful Youth In Mission Auction this year featuring our Youth Choir. We raised over $16,000 to support our mission efforts here in DC and in rural Appalachia. Thank you so much for continuing to support our mission programs. The high school students going on ASP this year include: Allie Boyle; Anna Hukill; Asa Canty; Caroline Sanford; Eduardo Cavalcanti; Daniel Lewis; Eleanor Struewing; Ian Jacobson; Isabel Brown; Jacob Sanford; Joey Bautista; John Ahn; Julia Parker; Kate Peters; Mark Custer; Matthew Guerrera; Mikaela McCleery; Miles Royce; Noah Totsline; Owen Brody; Savannah Chapa; Spencer Adams; and Willie Skoff. There is still time to contribute! If you would like to donate to ASP or Y4DCC, please contact Patrick at youthministry@ nationalchurch.org.
Sunday, May 4
We are having a wonderful time in our confirmation class exploring the basic beliefs and practices of our faith. We will be celebrating confirmation on Sunday, May 4 at 9am at Metropolitan Memorial and 11am at Wesley with a reception in the Great Hall at 10am at Metropolitan Memorial. Our Confirmation Class Lydia Klick Perry Ann Brody Cordell Pugh Ava Lundell Caroline Brown Elena Remez Edmee Brown-Egue Grace Lundell Caroline Sanford Nat McMaster Olivia Greene Maddy Vieth Julia Parker George Imperial
Methodist Youth Fellowship (MYF)
batman
• April 6: Parent Meeting & MYF: Batman • April 13: Confirmation Class at Wesley • April 27: ASP Pre-Trip Lunch & MYF: Batman
Summer Mission Trips
• Appalachia Service Project (ASP): July 5th through July 12th • Youth 4 the DC Cause (Y4DCC): August 4th through August 8th For a calendar of youth events or to see reflections on our youth program, visit the youth ministry blog at youthmetropolitan.wordpress.com/calendar.
This semester our evening youth program will be using Batman to explore questions of spirituality and ethics. Viewing clips from various Batman movies, we will discuss what a Christian response is to the world around us. Some of the topics we might discuss are what kind of masks do we wear, how do we best help people, and should we all get super hero capes and fancy gadgets. We meet twice each month on Sunday from 5:30pm to 7:30pm (dinner included). Contact Patrick Landau, Director of Youth Ministries, plandau@nationalchurch.org or 202-363-4900, ext. 112.
Children’s Ministries VBS: Workshop of Wonders: Imagine & Build with God Save the Date - June 29 through July 3
The Workshop of Wonders is coming! Metropolitan’s Vacation Bible School, geared towards children age 4 to rising 6th graders, features a half day filled with music, arts and crafts, games and storytelling. This year, we’re kicking off VBS on Sunday, June 29 at 5:30pm and the whole family is invited (Monday - Thursdays sessions will run from 9am - noon). Register now at nationalchurch.org/vbs.
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Our Mission
Building an inclusive, caring Christian community that invites all into a deepening challenges all of us to grow as disciples, seeking justice and joy for the transformation of the world.
relationship
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God
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Our Vision
Extending radical hospitality, transforming lives, and pursuing justice.
Reconciling Statement
Metropolitan Memorial United Methodist Church affirms that all individuals are of sacred worth without regard to race, ethnicity, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, age, religion, education, marital circumstances, economic status, physical and mental condition, or criminal history. We declare ourselves in support of the reconciling movement and welcome the full participation in the church of gay, lesbian, bisexual, or transgendered persons and their families, as a reflection of God’s unconditional love. At the same time, we recognize differences of opinion on issues of sexuality and seek to journey together in faith toward greater understanding and mutual respect.
Pastoral and Administrative Staff - 3401 Nebraska Avenue, NW, DC - 202.363.4900 www.nationalchurch.org - Pastoral Emergency Number - 202.510.8555 Rev. Dr. Charles Parker –– Senior Pastor, ext. 108, cparker@nationalchurch.org Rev. Kate Murphey — Associate Pastor, Sharing, Lead Pastor at Wesley UMC, ext. 110, kmurphey@nationalchurch.org Rev. Dottie Yunger –– Associate Pastor, Service/Advocacy, Lead Pastor at Crossroads, ext. 111, dyunger@nationalchurch.org Rev. Drema McAllister-Wilson — Minister of Congregational Care, ext. 104, dwilson@nationalchurch.org Rev. Janet Craswell—Director of Christian Education, ext. 115, jcraswell@nationalchurch.org Rev. Barbara Green – Minister of Life Transitions, bgreen@nationalchurch.org, ext. 105 David Hosey - Campus Ministry Coordinator, dhosey@nationalchurch.org Princess Bethea — Office Coordinator, ext. 102, pbethea@nationalchurch.org Bruce Caviness — 11a.m. Organist-Choirmaster, ext. 152, bcaviness@nationalchurch.org Jeff Clouser — Director of Communications and Outreach, ext. 113, jclouser@nationalchurch.org Dona Collary — Pastoral Care Assistant/Wedding and Funeral Coordinator, ext. 106, dcollary@nationalchurch.org Casey Elliott — Dayspring Choir Director/9am Worship Leader/Youth Choir Director, ext. 151, celliott@nationalchurch.org Patrisha House — Director of Worship, Music and Arts, ext. 114, phouse@nationalchurch.org Patrick Landau — Director of Youth Ministries, ext. 112, plandau@nationalchurch.org Bill Potts –– Executive Director of Operations, ext. 101, wpotts@nationalchurch.org Rafael Reyes — Director of Building and Grounds, ext. 116, rreyes@nationalchurch.org Helen Simon — Executive Assistant to Dr. Parker, ext. 109, hsimon@nationalchurch.org Linda Smith — Director of Nursery School, 202.362.8746, lsmith@nationalchurch.org
The Messenger is published by The Metropolitan Church - A Multi-site United Methodist Community Metropolitan Memorial - 3401 Nebraska Ave., NW., Washington, DC 20016 Tel: 202.363.4900 St. Luke’s Mission Center (3655 Calvert St., NW)/Wesley UMC (5312 Conn. Ave., NW) Fax: 202.686.2056 E-Mail: jclouser@nationalchurch.org website: nationalchurch.org NEXT ISSUE: May 12, 2014 NEXT DEADLINE: Noon on May 6, 2014