The Messenger
May 12, 2014 Volume XXIV, No. 5 Nationalchurch.org
Metropolitan Volunteer Team Serves in South Africa
Some of the team members are pictured here following their April 26th commissioning service. This year’s VIM trip participants are: Carol Bartlett Princess Bethea Keith Boucher
Good Shepherd UMC, Haverhill, MA
Arlester Brown Rebecca Evans Beverly Fleming Patricia House Karen Howard Karen and Allan Kostreba Wesley UMC, Vienna, VA
Ruffin Maddox Ann Michel Justin Settlage Kevin Walter Dottie Yunger Phillip Yunger
On May 9, a sixteen-member VIM team departed for two weeks of mission work and cross-cultural engagement in South Africa. The main focus of the team’s work will be at the Bokamoso Centre in Winterveldt, a township outside of Pretoria. The Centre works with at-risk youth providing life-skill training, career mentoring, and scholarships for college or vocational school. We have been blessed at Metropolitan Church to be in relationship with the Bokamoso Centre over many years. Youth from Bokamoso Bokamoso Youth perform have visited Metropolitan annually sharing their sto- at Metropolitan Memorial ries and struggles through amazing music and performances. This trip will strengthen this ongoing relationship. In addition to participating in the Centre’s work with youth, the team will bring a Vacation Bible School to thirty five preschoolers at Bokamoso’s daycare center, paint the exterior of the Centre’s main building, work in the community garden, and volunteer at a nearby hospice and AIDS clinic. Later, in Johannesburg, the group will take part in an outreach and feeding ministry called “Paballo Ya Batho” (Caring for the People) that serves that city’s large population of refugees, mostly from Zimbabwe. The team has raised funds to support this work and an additional $10,000 to help purchase a much-needed van for the Bokamoso Centre. Thanks go to all who have supported this mission through their generosity and gifts! The team is a diverse, inter generational group representing Metropolitan, Wesley, and Crossroads/St. Luke’s and also includes three individuals who have joined the effort from other United Methodist Churches. The team asks for your prayers during their travels and looks forward to sharing with you upon their return. Follow their adventures at nationalchurch.blogspot.com! Blessings,
AND THE
Spirituality and the Arts - June Sermon Series with Guest Pastor Rev. Chris Holmes
Join us in June as Rev. Chris Holmes (son of former Senior Pastor at Metropolitan Memorial, Rev. Dr. William Holmes) leads 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 Sacred Design, 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 inter generational and interactive, and will include the creation of a mural of creation on moveable panels. No artistic skills are required and all are welcome!
Life at the Metropolitan Church
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Congratulations!
To Drema and David McAllister-Wilson on the birth of their Granddaughter, Lucy Gloria McAllister Moore born on April 17. Parents are Ashley and Dave Moore. To Richard Staines (son of Susan and Verdon Staines) and Rebecca Dellen on their wedding on April 26. To Zack Byam on graduating from West Virginia University with a Masters in Counseling To Lissie Green Geyer on graduating from the University of North Carolina with a Bachelors of Art in Anthropology. To Kate Murphey and Abraham Payton on their wedding on May 3. To Kelsey White who placed 1st in Animal Sciences and 3rd Overall at the DC STEM (Science Technology Engineering & Math) Fair, which qualified her as one of three students to represent DC in the Intel International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) the world’s largest international pre-college science competition in Los Angeles, CA. • To Sydney Schleicher, Granddaughter of Carol and Dick Schleicher on being featured in the Washington Post’s KidsPost art contest. The theme was squirrel week and Sydney’s piece was chosen out of 100 drawings and paintings.
Our prayers go out to...
The family and friends of Karen Shah, who died on April 24 (a memorial service was held on May 8th at Metropolitan Memorial)
Drink of the Month Raises Funds for Metro House
Alpha Phi Omega (APO), the service fraternity at American University, is an avid supporter of many Metropolitan service ministries, including Metro House. Recently, they raised $214 with the “Drink of the Month” fund raiser at the Davenport Coffee Lounge. We thank Alpha Phi Omega for their support of our homeless ministry.
Front Desk Volunteer Needed
That friendly smile and gracious voice you hear on the other side of the phone when you call our church office is that of a volunteer. Our front desk is manned by volunteers five days a week. If you like to have fun and meet nice people, the front desk may be for you. If you have a couple of hours to give on Tuesdays from 9am to 5pm, please contact Princess Bethea, pbethea@nationalchurch.org or 202-363-4900, ext. 102.
Happy 100th Birthday to Eunice Mathews Support the Mabel L. Jones School In Honor of Eunice Mathews’ 100th Birthday
Eunice Mathews celebrated her 100th birthday on Tuesday, April 29. Celebrate the life of Eunice Mathews and all of her accomplishments and gifts to others during the last 100 years by contributing to support the Mabel L. Jones school. Founded by the Methodist Board of Missions in the late 1800’s, Eunice Mathews’ mother was the first female principal of the school in the early 1900’s and pioneered the concept of using female teachers to teach young Indian boys. It is now a coeducational institution that educates poor children in the region of Sitapur, India. You are invited to write a check out to MMUMC, memo: India School.
Metropolitan Memorial Receives the Roger Williams Day Award
The George Washington University Chapter of Zeta Beta Tau (ZBT) honored Metropolitan by naming the church the recipient of its annual Roger Williams Day Award. The award was made in acknowledgement of Metropolitan’s “continued dedication to equality and unique commitment to the LGBTQ community.” Zeta Beta Tau is an inclusive Jewish fraternity. The award is named for Roger Williams, founder of Rhode Island and a champion of religious freedom and equality for all. Bill Potts attended the fraternity’s April 22 chapter meeting accompanied by Ann Michel who received the award on behalf of the church. She noted in her remarks that her late father-in-law had been a member of Zeta Beta Tau. In an address to the chapter she outlined Metropolitan Memorial’s advocacy on behalf of LGBTQ equality within the church and society and lifted up other ways Metropolitan is engaged in community service and interfaith outreach. The award can be seen in the Library Niche Window outside the Sanctuary.
American University to Begin Construction
Beginning May 19, AU will start converting the parking lot at the corner of Nebraska and New Mexico, into dormitories, classrooms, administrative buildings, and an underground parking garage. The project, slated for a minimum of 2 years of construction, may have a tremendous impact during the weekdays. In addition, we frequently use this parking lot as overflow for special occasions and on Sundays. Unfortunately, that space will not 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. 2
Life at the Metropolitan Church Jazz@Wesley Saturday, May 24, 6:30pm
Enjoy the sounds of “The Lovejoy Group.” Fronted by Karen Lovejoy, this engaging ensemble performs a collection of jazz standards and Latin rhythms. Herb Smith (sax), Bubbles Dean (drums), Bob Shann (bass), and Sammy Munquia (piano). Tickets at instantseats.com. $10/entry l $7/Senior I 12 and under free. Bring a non-perishable food item or slightly used coat to jazz up someone’s life. *5312 Connecticut Ave., NW.
A Message from Charlie
I am on Sabbatical from May 5 - September 3. During this time, my personal e-mail account is not receiving any emails. If you receive emails from this address, it is because I am cleaning out old messages, so that I can start with a clean slate on my return; for good or ill, you will not be able to respond to them. If you have a time-sensitive issue that requires attention before I return, Please contact my colleagues for help in the following areas: • Rev. Drema McAllister-Wilson, Minister of Congregational Care, for pastoral issues, dwilson@nationalchurch.org. • Bill Potts, Executive Director of Operations, for building, finance, or calendar issues, wpotts@nationalchurch.org. • Helen Simon, my Executive Assistant, for general information or referrals to other staff members, pastorsoffice@ nationalchurch.org. • Rev. Ianther Mills, Vice Chair fo the Board of Ordained Ministry, for anything related to BOOM, imills@asburyumcdc. org. I look forward to returning in the fall and hope that you have a restful and restorative time this summer.
Memorial Day Sunday, May 25 Armor Down 9am, Metropolitan I 11am, Wesley* 5:30pm, Crossroads**
Join us as Benjamin H. King, President of Armor Down, tells his story of being a wounded soldier and wrestling to find a healing that has grounded his purpose and identity. Learn more about Mindful Memorial Day and the many activities scheduled on Memorial Day weekend at armordown.com. *5312 Conn. Ave., NW **3655 Calvert St., NW.
2014 Capital Pride Parade Saturday, June 7, 4pm, Dupont Circle*
Join the reconciling team and folks from other United Methodist Churches for the annual Pride Parade. Wear comfortable shoes, a hat, your Metropolitan t-shirt and a smile to show the crowds radical hospitality. *Meeting at approximately 23rd and Q Sts. NW. Precise position in parade will be provided Thursday before parade. Contacts: Kerm Towler, flautobasso@yahoo.com or Suzanne Forsyth, suzanneforsyth@aol.com.
Summer Office Hours Beginning Friday, May 23 M-Th 9am - 5pm Fri 9am - Noon
Please note our new summer office hours will begin on Friday, May 23. We will return to our regular office hours in September.
Blessings
News from the Green Team
Metropolitan's Green Team has several new initiatives going to reduce energy and water waste. Look for these around all our campuses: 1. We are pursuing options to retrofit some of our light fixtures at St. Luke’s and Wesley with more energy efficient technologies, like new ballasts and more efficient fluorescent tubes. Bill Potts, our Executive Director of Operations, is pursuing a rebate program that should cover 70% of the cost. The remaining 30% of the cost that the church pays should be recouped within the first year after installation through reduced electricity bills. 2. Bill Potts is also looking into options to change as many light bulbs as possible at all three campuses from incandescent to LED bulbs, which will dramatically reduce the amount of electricity needed to light these spaces. 3. We are working toward making our facilities hospitable without using single-use plastic water bottles. Two water fountains, the one on the second floor in the education building and the one outside the office suite, are being replaced by water stations which will include both fountains and spigots for refilling multiple-use water bottles. 4. In mid-May, the Green Team will be distributing free elegant metal water bottles for the congregation to use. Single-use plastic bottles are not a great idea, because: • Spring water drains springs and aquifers, endangering local water supplies. • 48% of bottled water sold in this country is actually repackaged tap water. • Bottle production and transportation use a lot of energy and plastic. • Only 20% of the bottles in this country are recycled. The rest end up in landfills or in the collections of plastic waste in the oceans. • Bottled water costs about two thousand times the price of tap water. • Tap water is tested and regulated more thoroughly than bottled water.
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Service and Advocacy GETTING READY FOR RECONCILING SUNDAY
Our annual celebration of having become a Reconciling Congregation will take place on Sunday, June 8, which is also Pentecost Sunday. How appropriate that the birthday of the Church will also celebrate our commitment to Radical Hospitality and inclusion of LGBTQ brothers and sisters. The Rev. Dr. Pamela Lightsey, an ordained Elder of the Northern Illinois Conference of The United Methodist Church, will be our guest preacher. Dr. Lightsey serves as Associate Dean for Community Life and Lifelong Learning at Boston University School of Theology. In addition to this work, Dr. Lightsey serves as cochair of the Womanist Approaches to Religion and Society Group of the American Academy of Religion. One way you can help make our welcome visible is to purchase one of the Rainbow Stoles that members of the Marriage Equality Task Force are making available. The cost is $25, which supports our work and the work of the Reconciling Ministries Network. (RMN) You can find us at the Stop the Trials table in the Office Lobby every Sunday. If you'd like to help make more stoles, please contact Ellen Bachman, ellenbachman@comcast.net. Finally, you are also invited to join RMN as an individual member.
The Campus Kitchens Project and AARP Foundation Expand Commitment to Fight Senior Hunger With a rising senior population that already includes nearly 9 million older Americans at risk of hunger, The Campus Kitchens Project and AARP Foundation today announced a renewal of their senior hunger outreach program that meets the challenge of reducing food insecurity and isolation among seniors. The program is made possible by a three year, $625,000 investment from AARP Foundation and is part of the Foundation’s strategy to develop innovative, sustainable solutions to increase food security for older Americans. In the last decade, hunger among older adults over the age of 50 has grown by 80 percent. Further, 80 million baby boomers are reaching retirement age, growing the population of Americans subject to food insecurity. The Campus Kitchens Project seeks to address this issue through many of its 36 student-run kitchens on university and high school campuses across the country, which transform unused food from dining halls, grocery stores, restaurants and farmer’s markets into free meals for those in need. “The issue of hunger in the older adult population is simply growing too fast for the traditional charity approach to keep up,” said Laura Toscano, director of The Campus Kitchens Project. “But in every community there is a school, and in every school there is leftover food going to waste and a dining hall that sits dark in the evenings. By engaging student volunteers to mobilize these existing assets in our communities and to go beyond the meal to address the underlying root causes of hunger through innovative programs, The Campus Kitchens Project is providing a sustainable solution to the problem of senior hunger.” Based on the proven success of last year’s relationship where ten Campus Kitchens served nearly 46,000 meals to 1,800 older adults, the contribution by AARP Foundation will allow ten Campus Kitchens to increase their meal production and serve 500 more seniors each month. In addition, the investment will allow The Campus Kitchens Project to open 20 new senior-focused Campus Kitchens over the next three years. As part of the grant, The Campus Kitchens Project will work with student volunteers to evaluate the most effective senior-
focused programs and issue a book of best practice programs for addressing the intersection between older adult hunger and isolation. “Far too many older Americans are struggling each day to put food on the table, which is one reason we teamed up again with Campus Kitchens to bolster existing efforts to feed the hungry and foster the development of innovative mid- and long-term solutions,” said AARP Foundation President Lisa Marsh Ryerson. “Even more, engaging youth in such an important charge as senior hunger helps to create inter generational connections while cultivating future leaders on this crucial issue.” The ten Campus Kitchens selected to focus specifically on issues surrounding senior hunger are: •The Campus Kitchen at our St. Luke’s Mission Center Washington, DC •Elon University – Elon, NC •Gettysburg College – Gettysburg, PA •Gonzaga University – Spokane, WA •Kent State University – Kent, OH •Lee University – Cleveland, TN •St. Lawrence University – Canton, NY •The University of Massachusetts Boston – Boston, MA •University of Georgia – Athens, GA •Washington and Lee University – Lexington, VA For more information on The Campus Kitchens Project, their AARP Foundation-funded senior hunger outreach program and other work being done by student volunteers, visit cam-
Campus Kitchen Project - New Schedule! Fridays and Saturdays, 11:30am - 3:30pm 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.
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United Methodist Women A letter from Nan McCurdy, Missionary, for the Women and Community Team A UMW Benevolent Giving Recipient
Dear Friends at Metropolitan Memorial UMC,
Warm greetings from Women and Community in Nicaragua. Thank you for your donation to Women and Community ADVANCE #13285A of US $1800 made in December 2013. We´d like to share about the advances made in 2013 in the work of the Youth Network Against Violence. During the year two youth attended the Town Councils and shared with the Network of Youth. They exercised their citizen participation in Human Rights, the Environment and Culture/Sports: • One group carried out an awareness-raising campaign about how to manage and recycle trash and also facilitated competitions at five schools about ways to recycle – the children were very creative. • More than a hundred youth participated in a protest with hand-made signs and messages, marching through the municipal seat and chanting to raise awareness about violence against women and situations of impunity. • They also carried out an awareness-raising campaign about the need for a municipal office for attention to women, youth and children and they collected 335 signatures on a petition and presented it twice to the town council, so far with no results. • They gave talks on Human Rights to 125 people in the villages. 40 youth deepened their knowledge and expanded their abilities in reflection sessions on Human Rights and Violence, Sexual and Reproductive Rights, Family Planning, Citizen Participation, HIV/AIDS and on the environment. Then these young men and women multiplied the themes in 20 villages with ten to 12 youth in each village for an average total of 225 youth. On International Youth Day they organized a Festival with the participation of 287 teens and young adults from all over the municipality: What we have learned can be changed, in reference to the typical chauvinism learned by boys/men. The objective was to increase awareness of the need to develop equality and gender equity with emphasis on the “formation of the new man”. 6 youth who have been very active in the Network were chosen to be representatives for an interchange with college students in Iowa last April. They gave talks and plays about the Network and about Nicaragua. They are still working on the project of getting a community radio station up and running. They very much appreciate your support, thank you so much. In mission together, Nan McCurdy, Missionary
United Methodist Women Recognition Luncheon Nominations Needed
Although our next Recognition Luncheon will not be until December 24, 2014, it is time to think about prospective honorees. At that time, we will honor and recognize four outstanding UMW ladies who have made significant contributions to our church, community and nation. We need your help in nominating these candidates. To see the names of people who have already received this award, please see Page 8 of your 2012-2013 UMW Directory. We would prefer to honor women who have not been previously recognized. To nominate someone, please contact Carol Schleicher, 301-229-2385 or rschlei@verizon.net or Sandy Yeager, 301-320-3951 or syeager42@yahoo.com.
Closing the Chapter on the 2014 UMW Book Sale
Many thanks to all of you who helped make the UMW Book Sale a success this year. We tried some new things with the café, children’s story time, and jewelry table, which were good additions. Despite the rainy weekend, we had a steady flow of customers with book dealers lined up when the door opened at 8am. Our proceeds for the two-day sale totaled about $1,800. We were grateful to sell the remaining 111 boxes of books to Wonderbooks, which provided a pick-up service immediately after the sale allowing us to clear the Vestry in just over one hour. The many hours of help sorting, setting up, staffing the sale, cashiering, cleaning up, baking - all very appreciated. Thanks to the big team of book lovers who supported the event: Carol Griffith, Alison Daifuku, Martha Turner, Barbara Gaskill, Suzanne Stokes Vieth, Cynthia Pugh, Ann Michel, Ann Cochran, Jeanie Mah, Jack Blaylock, Anita Seline, Connie Sommers, Margaret Patterson, Jennie Stathis, Carol Scheichler, Karen Howard, Suzanne Clewell, Carolyn Clewell, Dianne Moody, Lorraine Marsh, Maura Porcelli, Sandy Yeager, Charlotte Carter, Joan Topalian, Suzanne Forsyth, Pam McFarland, Kelly D’Angelo, Marilyn Dickerson…and many more.
- Caralee Adams
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Caring May is Mental Health Month….. Find helpful resources in the Phillips Chapel or online at mentalhealthministries.net
“O Holy God, open unto me light for my darkness, courage for my fear, hope for my despair. O loving God, open unto me wisdom for my confusion, forgiveness for my sins, love for my hate. O God of peace, open unto me peace for my turmoil, joy for my sorrow, strength for my weakness. O generous God, open my heart to receive your gifts”
Hospice Care Discussion Tuesday, May 13, 7:30pm, Adas Israel Synagogue*
Starting a conversation about end of life and hospice is tough, but hospice’s greatest gift is the comfort it gives patients and families, making their time together all the more precious. Please join us to learn more about what hospice is – and isn’t and discuss your concerns about this important issue. For more information, contact Dale Kaufman. dale4tiger@gmail.com *2850 Quebec St., NW.
Prayer Shawl Ministry Sunday, May 18, 12:30pm Tuesday, May 20, 1:30pm
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, May 19, 12:30pm, Vestry
Please join us as Bela Demeter, a docent with the National Gallery of Art, will give a presentation on Dragons in Art. Social time is at 12:30 p.m., and the meeting starts at 1pm. Refreshments will be served.
-Howard Thurman
Lunch and More Feasting, Fellowship and Fun Thursday, May 15, Noon, Great Hall
Join us for “Lunch and More!” After eating together, Mike Emery will lead a discussion on “Prevention of Identify Fraud.” Mike will describe various types of identity fraud, how they occur, what to do in the event you are a victim, recent Internet security issues, and preventative steps. Q&A session to follow. Contacts: Phyllis Kokus, PKokus@aol.com or Mary Jo Marchant, mjmarchant@verizon.net.
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.
Adult Study Soup and Study Wednesdays, May 14, 28 and June 11, 6pm - Dinner l 7pm - Classes
Nourish your body and soul with Soup and Study. As always, each session is free-standing. Classes include: Bible Study with Bob Olson and Janet Craswell. Join our ongoing study of themes in the Hebrew Bible. Unlocking the Power of Prayer with Kris Oberdick. This class studies types of prayer, needs for prayer, Lectio Divina, and relationship to God in prayer. • May 14 - Match your prayer to your current need. Different times bring different needs and there are different prayers to raise up to address those needs. • May 28 - Meditative Prayer. See how meditative prayer can help you hear God’s answer to the questions in your heart. In this session we will practice a method of reading scripture prayerfully called Lectio Divina. • June 11 - Do you feel God isn’t answering? Learn how to break down different impediments to hearing God. Recognize God’s voice answering your prayers. Make sure you are doing everything possible to hear God. Left-Out Scripture: Early Church Writings that did not make it into the New Testament with Maynard Moore. Discover a new appreciation of the New Testament, by understanding the context through which certain writings were chosen to be “in” and others were to be “out” of Christian scripture. Ancient manuscript scholars have found at least 25 “gospels,” dozens of letters, and numerous “apocalyptic” writings, all of which were referenced as worthy of study by groups of Christians in the early congregations. What we know as the New Testament was not identified as a “unitary collection” until 367 CE. • May 14 we begin with some of the writings that were familiar to Jesus and the disciples, writings that did not all make it into the “Old Testament,” and the material forming the basis of the oral tradition among the earliest churches. • May 28, we will look very closely at the Gospel of Thomas, comparing many of these “sayings” of Jesus with those now found in our Synoptic Gospels. • June 11, we will review 2nd century writings such as the Gospel of Peter and the Gospel of Judas, and discuss the process by which the Church Fathers made decisions as to what should be included in the New Testament.
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Youth Ministries Confirmation - May 4, 2014
We celebrated Confirmation on May 4th with 13 of our young people becoming members of our church. The picture below shows senior pastor Charlie Parker laying hands on Cordell Pugh as part of this significant rite of passage. In the process of Confirmation, each youth was expected to write their own profession of faith. Each of those is included here. Perry Ann Brody: I believe that God guides our lives and shows us the way when we are lost. I believe that God loves everybody equally, even though we are not perfect. I believe that God does everything for a reason. I believe that God allows us to learn from our mistakes. I believe that God’s voice is our conscious at times when we need him. I believe that Jesus is God’s only son and that he died on the cross so that our sins would be forgiven and that we can go to heaven. I believe that the Holy Spirit is an extension of God and that the Holy Spirit moves through all of us. I believe that we are all already saved. I believe that God is the creator and Jesus is the redeemer. I believe that Jesus will come again in final victory. I believe that the church is a place to worship God and to rejoice. It is a place to come together as a community; to set aside our differences and unite with common beliefs. I believe that it is a Christian’s duty to reach out and help those in need. To provide food for the hungry, to help the homeless, and much more. I believe we should give back to the community because we are very fortunate. Edmee Edem Brown-Egue: I believe in God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit. God is my creator. He created all living things, love and peace. God is the one who sent the Son to redeem me. God is my light he guides me into doing the right things. He reminds me that everyone is a child of God. I believe Jesus Christ is my savior and friend. As a friend and savior, Christ suffered and was crucified for me, for all of us, and our sins. After he was crucified he became the Holy Spirit. I believe the Holy Spirit is with me all the time. He watches me and makes sure that I am protected, loved and cared for. I believe that church is the Lord’s home. The church is a place for everyone. The importance of being a Christian is to never ever forget that God and the Holy Spirit will always be by my side. Olivia Mei-Wah Greene: I believe that God is the entire Holy Trinity. I believe He is the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. However, the Trinity is still three separate parts. I believe that God sent Jesus to help us humans understand His kingdom. Jesus died to save us from living lives of sin, but He will come again. When He comes, I believe he will need to put us back on the right track again. I also believe that God wants us to be individuals. I believe that even though He is with us, he does not make decisions for us. He wants us to make the choices that we feel are right, so we can learn from any mistakes we make. He wants the people on earth to be happy. George Hardy Imperial: I believe in God, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. I believe that God is the father, the son, and the Holy Spirit. I believe that God has a plan for everybody in life and he will be a light for us to follow. God loves us all no matter how badly we screw up in life and he
wants us to love our neighbors, friends, and enemies. I believe that God wants us to be forgiving, kind, put others before ourselves, and be the best we can be. God sent his only son, Jesus Christ, to forgive us from our sins. Jesus died to save the world and me. Jesus was the only one human to ever live a life free of sin. I believe that God wants us to try and live a perfect life and make sacrifices for others. I believe in the Holy Spirit. I can feel the spirit in everything in the world God created. I believe that the spirit is like the word of God and the spirit is what tells us how to live better lives. I believe that Church is a place to worship, and learn about the word of God. The church exists so people may come and begin to follow God and become one of his disciples. I believe that the mission of the church is to spread Christianity, love, and to help people who are less fortunate than others. To me, I believe that we should have faith that God loves us no matter what terrible things we have done, he wants us to forgive people who sin against us, but most importantly we must put others before ourselves. Just because someone doesn’t have as many blessings or things as we do, doesn’t mean they deserve anything less than we do. Lydia Elizabeth Klick: God is the Creator. He can be described as the Father, and the Lord. Jesus is the Son. Jesus has kept the world in balance, and died for me. The Holy Spirit is the Ghost following us all. The Spirit is there to direct and teach us. The Church is the Sanctuary, a building of pure honesty in a corrupted world, there to guide us in the way we should live. The Church’s mission is to enlighten us in the way of the Lord. Being Christian is important to me because it gives me one thing to believe in. Grace Schutte Lundell: I believe in the Lord our God, creator of both heaven and earth, who made both humans and animals, molding humanity in Gods own image. I believe that judgment is Gods to give and no one else’s. I also believe in the grace of God and that our sins have already been forgiven. I believe in the power of prayer, that praying is our way to communicate with God, to gain courage from the Lord. I believe that we are never alone, that God is always with us, no matter the circumstances, no matter the decisions we have made. I also believe in life after death, that death is not the end but merely the beginning of eternity with God. I believe in the trinity, that God is not just one thing but all. I believe in Jesus Christ the savior, that he gave his life on the cross and was buried, that he broke the pattern of death and rose again into the world and then to heaven and that one day he will come again. I believe in the fact that Jesus did all of this so that we could be saved and would have the chance for eternal life with him in paradise.
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Youth Ministries (Cont.) Ava Schutte Lundell: I believe that God is the All Mighty; creator of all things moving, breathing, and living. Creator of the earth and infinite skies. Creator of the waters and never ending lands. Creator of the stars and heavens. I believe in Jesus Christ, son of God, who sacrificed himself on the cross to save us from our sins. I believe that Jesus sits in the empty seat at our table. I believe in the Holy Spirit and that in the beginning it soared over the waters. I believe that the Holy Spirit is not just one color but all colors united together to form a marvelous rainbow of different shades. I believe that in order to believe in the Trinity we must have faith in something that we cannot always see but know is there. I believe that our sins are forgiven and that we are all welcomed to heaven if we are willing to accept God’s grace. I believe that death is not the end but merely the beginning; that heaven is a paradise, molded for each and every one of us. I believe that when we pray, God is giving us a chance to think about all the privileges in our life as well as giving us an opportunity to talk about the things that we are scared, anxious or worried about. Praying also gives us a time for silence and peace, a time to think about everything and anything. I believe that God is the eye that watches from the heavens and clouds, observing our every move, critiquing but not judging. I believe that God is the shadow, watching over me with every path and move I take. I believe that God is near even in our most disheartening and depressing times. In our most frightening and terrifying times, God is watching over us, and in our most joyful and contented times, God is always there. I believe that we are never alone because God is always with us. Nathaniel Thomas McMaster: While a few short words cannot sum up what it means to me to be Christian, the words of my favorite hymn, Take Time To Be Holy, hold an essential message: Take time to be holy, speak oft with thy Lord Abide in him always and feed on His Word Make friends of God’s children, help those who are weak Forgetting in nothing His blessing to seek. I feel that the core responsibility of Christians is to serve God through good works in the community and in yourself. I believe that God’s Spirit is ever present in our lives, and it with His help that we accomplish acts of service. When you cannot find the Spirit of God in you, Jesus Christ is there to guide you and support you. It is through the church that we find support among our fellows in our time of need and in return, we find ways to support them. The church is a place to gather, enjoy our time together, and worship the Lord. And while God is ever present and supportive of us, it is often hard to believe fully in God, one-hundred percent of the time. There are always time when we find ourselves questioning God, who He is, what He does, or even if He exists. But even when we doubt God, He is still working in us and around
us. Faith is not perfect belief all the time, faith is a learning experience. There is an saying my family likes to use: faith is a balance between belief and doubt. God’s miracles are constantly surrounding us, though we may not always take notice. For example, have you noticed the growth of a child, or the blooming of a flower. It’s at these times when God makes us realize the wonders of His creation, and how lucky we are to experience it. So the next time somebody asks me exactly who I am, the best answer that will come to my mind is: I am a follower of Jesus Christ. And through Him, the miracles of Heaven become a reality. Julia Catharine Parker: I believe in God, I believe in Jesus, and I believe in the Holy Spirit. I believe that God is an immortal being who lives with us and guides us always. I believe he can see me writing this now, that he is reading over my shoulder, but a few miles away he is listening to someone’s prayer. Humans make decisions out of our own free will, but I believe God influences us and tries to help us make the right decision. We will fall but God will help us back up. We will make mistakes but God will always forgive us. I believe God sent Jesus so that he could fully understand us, so that he could feel our pains, and our joys so that he could be an even better, more caring God. I believe in the miracles that Jesus did, that he died on the cross so that we could be saved, and that on the third day after his death God raised him from the dead so that he could tell everybody that if they believed in God, then they would not die but have a lasting life in heaven (where hopefully the clouds are trampolines). Cordell Gurnee Pugh: I believe that God is always with all of us no matter where we are or what we are doing. Jesus came to Earth to give us more guidance on what was “right” and what was considered “sinning.” Even when we sin, God is still with us, but this is when he tries to redirect us. The Spirit is intertwined with faith, which is the reason I believe people come to church, and another reason is (obviously) to worship God, who is the creator, as well as Jesus, and the Holy Spirit. Church reconfirms our faith with Jesus, God, as well as our connection with the Holy Spirit. Elena Claire Remez: God. With so many heritages and religions in this world, God means so many things to so many people. In the Methodist church, God is a father, a friend, and a mentor. We can always talk to God; God is always there for us. Being a science geek, it was hard for me to comprehend having this mystical being watching my every move. But confirmation has helped me believe in God. In Sunday school, some weeks ago, we learned that God isn’t always going to help us. God wants us to learn from our mistakes so we can challenge our strengths and fears. Though I do not know where I will go with my faith journey in the future, I hope my trust in the existence of God will continue to bloom and flourish. Caroline Elizabeth Sanford: “Faith is like Wi-fi...it’s invisible, but it had the power to connect you to what you need.” I have been going to church for 14 years. Through being in the church community, I have learned many things, such as who God is, what he created, what he can do for us, and about his son, Jesus Christ. (Continued on pg. 9)
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Youth Ministries (Cont.) (Continued from pg. 8) There have been times in life when things have been a little shaky. I didn’t really understand how one person could create so much in such a short time. Sometimes it helps to think of verses in the Bible, like: “If God is for us, who can be against us?” and “They will have no fear of bad news; their hearts are steadfast, trusting in The Lord.” Also, many things like Manidokan have strengthened my trust in God. It is a place to just get away and realize who our God is and how he can help me make choices that are good for my life. In conclusion, faith is a five letter word that can mean many things like just knowing God is there, having my church and friends and family for support. F - forwarding A - all I - issues T - to H - heaven Madeleine Rose Vieth: I believe that God is not one being, but a spirit that inhabits all life on Earth. As a result of this, I believe that God is imperfect because God lives in the mundane forms of life God created and the definition of perfection differs from person to person. I also believe that God is not male or female and has no appearance. I believe that God advises humans but does not interfere with their lives in order to teach them about the benefits and consequences of decision-making. I would describe God as omniscient, everpresent and almighty. I believe that Jesus was a prophet sent from God to restore peace in the broken world. Jesus taught the people of Israel to use peace and kindness as means of connecting and respecting God. He taught them that love for others is often reciprocated and is the best way to create peace in society. Jesus stayed true to his teachings when he was crucified to free our sins and is the ultimate example of how important love for others is. Jesus is a constant reminder for me of the importance of sacrifices. I believe that the Holy Spirit is the encouragement and empowerment mortals receive from God. I believe that this Holy Spirit is what holds people together in hard times. The Holy Spirit brings out the best in people and is a true test to their character. The Holy Spirit is the hope that God will lead people down the right path. I believe that the Holy Spirit is within all of us and that people simply do not recognize this. The Holy Spirit can come with small actions such as a smile from a friend. In times of despair, people can always listen to the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit also lives in the Church, as well. I believe that the Church is a place of worship where Christians of different races, sexual orientations, genders, ages and ethnicities can come together and bond over their faith in God. The Church’s mission varies by sect, but is ultimately to bring people together through the teachings of God. Christianity is important to people for many reasons, but it is important to me because it provides teachings for me to follow in order to make the most of my short time on Earth. Jesus teaches me to “Do to others as you would have them do to you,” (Luke 6:31). These teachings have helped to guide me and transform me into the person I am today. Christianity also provides a supportive environment for me to connect with other Christians without being judged. In conclusion, Christianity has proved to be an important part of my life.
Children's Chorus of Washington Auditions (Ages 9-18)
The Children's Chorus of Washington (CCW) welcomes children ages 9-18 and young men with changing voices, to audition for its nationally recognized performancebased ensembles (Treble Chorus, Bel Canto Chorus, Concert Chorus, Young Men’s Ensemble). All auditions are by appointment on select dates in May-June, AugustSeptember, and December- January (202.237.1005 or ccw@childrenschorus.com). All students ages 9-18 are encouraged to audition (girls, boys with changed/unchanged voices). No need to prepare an audition piece. No previous experience is needed. The auditionee will be asked to sing a simple song like “Happy Birthday,” and follow pitch-matching and easy rhythm exercises. Based on the audition, CCW Artistic Director determines which ensemble is the best fit for the student. Once accepted, the young singer joins the chorus as a CCW member for the entire season. Sign up for an audition at childrenschorus.com/about-ccw/contactus!
Vacation Bible School Workshop of Wonders Imagine & Build with God June 29 through July 3
All kids, age 4 to rising 6th graders, are invited to the Workshop of Wonders! VBS features a half day filled with music, arts and crafts, games and storytelling. This year, we’re kick off VBS on Sunday, June 29 at 5:30pm and the whole family is invited (M-Th sessions run from 9am - noon). Register at nationalchurch.org/vbs. Want to have fun and volunteer to help with VBS? Contact Courtney Leatherman, 202-415-5814 or c_leatherman@ix.netcom.com.
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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
with
God
and
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: June 9, 2014 NEXT DEADLINE: Noon on June 3, 2014