Someone sent this to me - not sure the origin.
Diary of a Bible
January - A busy time for me. Most of the family decided to read me through this year. They kept me busy for the first two weeks, but they have forgotten me now.
February - Clean-up time. I was dusted yesterday and put in my place. My owner did use me for a few minutes last week. He had been in an argument and was looking up some references to prove he was right.
March - I had a busy day the first of the month. My owner was elected president of the P.T.A. and used me to prepare a speech.
April - Grandpa visited us this month. He kept me on his lap for an hour reading First Corinthians 13. He seems to think more of me than do some other people in my own household.
May - I have a few green stains on my pages. Some spring flowers were pressed in my pages.
June - I look like a scrapbook. They have stuffed me full of newspaper clippings - one of the girls was married.
July - They put me in a suitcase today. I guess we are off on vacation. I wish I could stay home; I know I'll be closed up in this thing for at least two weeks.
August - Still in the suitcase.
September - Back home at last and in my old familiar place. I have a lot of company. Two women's magazines and four comic books are stacked on top of me. I wish I could be read as much as they.
October - They read me a little bit today. One of them is very sick. Right now I am sitting in the center of the coffee table. I think the pastor is coming for a visit.
November - Back in my old place. Somebody asked today if I were a scrapbook.
December - The family is busy getting ready for the holidays. I guess I'll be covered up under wrapping paper and packages again - just as I am every Christmas.
Saturday, August 12, 2006
Thursday, August 10, 2006
Jesus Is Calling You Into His Service
Jesus is calling you into His service. Too many people think that you have to be a pastor to be in the service of God or to be called. As a member of the District and Conference Boards on Ordained Ministry too often see well intended lay people wanting to serve God and thinking they have a call into ordained ministry.
God calls all of us into His ministry. 1 Peter 2:9 – But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light. This passage is in the midst of God calling his people to holiness and service. We are all called.
In the recent debate over how we will be in ministry together as a church we have discussed our vision – to make disciples of Jesus Christ and how best to do that. We have discussed three goals we would like to accomplish; 1) a dedicated education time on Sunday mornings, 2) unified worship and 3) an outreach into the community.
This discussion has prompted us to consider moving some of our worship services offsite until such time as we build a larger worship center here or elsewhere. We have talked about our Sunday morning schedule. We have considered a number of changes and we have heard support and some concerns.
We probably haven’t unearthed all the options available to us as we strive to reach our three goals. I pray God will help us discern what is best for His church at MZ.
Along with this discussion a number of other things have surfaced. One of them is a need to examine our hearts and reasons for coming to church in the first place. How many of us “simply” come to worship and that ends our efforts for the Lord? How many of us offer to help around the church? Most of us could help to keep a flower bed clean of weeds and in some inexpensive color. Many of us could serve as ushers, greeters, on a committee, in other support ministries. Some of us, if not most of us, could be used in the children’s and youth ministry. Where are you helping make your church a better place? If you’re waiting for a sense of connection at MZ, there is no better way than to offer to serve in some ministry. You will be working with others who have a similar heart and interest and will get to know them by rolling up your sleeves so to speak and getting at it for the Lord.
Once you find a place to plug in I want to remind you that you should take your task very seriously. Volunteers are just unpaid workers in the harvest field of the Lord. Your part is very important, at times, allowing the paid staff to do things they might only be able to do. But, without your support and work, they might not get to those other tasks because they are filling the gap we all should be filling.
When you work with children, with the yard, with the worship service or any other place, do it to your best ability. Don’t show up for a class to teach without taking time to prepare. Don’t wait till Saturday night late when you know weeks ahead of time to call or try to find someone to fill in for you. Take your task seriously! Here what God’s Word says.
Colossians 3:17 – And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.
Colossians 3:23 – Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men,
1 Corinthians 15:58 – Therefore, my dear brothers, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.
You are called and you are needed. And when, not if, you get plugged into the work of the Lord, do it to your best ability! God notices, even if no one else does, and your efforts will make MZ a better church.
Shock them! Grab Pastor’s Wade and Tony in the halls and ask them where they need you to work in the discipleship ministries of the church. Ask Wade & Rachel what SonBurst needs. Seek out John Hines, Sr. and ask him what needs repaired or maintained around the church. Send me a note and tell me where you would like to work in the coming year. Talk to Norma and Vicki and tell them of your interest in the music ministry of the church. Call the office and tell Christi you would like to volunteer some time (30 minutes a week would do amazing things) to help in the office. You can do it, I know you can, because – we can do everything through him who gives me strength. – Philippians 4:13.
God calls all of us into His ministry. 1 Peter 2:9 – But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light. This passage is in the midst of God calling his people to holiness and service. We are all called.
In the recent debate over how we will be in ministry together as a church we have discussed our vision – to make disciples of Jesus Christ and how best to do that. We have discussed three goals we would like to accomplish; 1) a dedicated education time on Sunday mornings, 2) unified worship and 3) an outreach into the community.
This discussion has prompted us to consider moving some of our worship services offsite until such time as we build a larger worship center here or elsewhere. We have talked about our Sunday morning schedule. We have considered a number of changes and we have heard support and some concerns.
We probably haven’t unearthed all the options available to us as we strive to reach our three goals. I pray God will help us discern what is best for His church at MZ.
Along with this discussion a number of other things have surfaced. One of them is a need to examine our hearts and reasons for coming to church in the first place. How many of us “simply” come to worship and that ends our efforts for the Lord? How many of us offer to help around the church? Most of us could help to keep a flower bed clean of weeds and in some inexpensive color. Many of us could serve as ushers, greeters, on a committee, in other support ministries. Some of us, if not most of us, could be used in the children’s and youth ministry. Where are you helping make your church a better place? If you’re waiting for a sense of connection at MZ, there is no better way than to offer to serve in some ministry. You will be working with others who have a similar heart and interest and will get to know them by rolling up your sleeves so to speak and getting at it for the Lord.
Once you find a place to plug in I want to remind you that you should take your task very seriously. Volunteers are just unpaid workers in the harvest field of the Lord. Your part is very important, at times, allowing the paid staff to do things they might only be able to do. But, without your support and work, they might not get to those other tasks because they are filling the gap we all should be filling.
When you work with children, with the yard, with the worship service or any other place, do it to your best ability. Don’t show up for a class to teach without taking time to prepare. Don’t wait till Saturday night late when you know weeks ahead of time to call or try to find someone to fill in for you. Take your task seriously! Here what God’s Word says.
Colossians 3:17 – And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.
Colossians 3:23 – Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men,
1 Corinthians 15:58 – Therefore, my dear brothers, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.
You are called and you are needed. And when, not if, you get plugged into the work of the Lord, do it to your best ability! God notices, even if no one else does, and your efforts will make MZ a better church.
Shock them! Grab Pastor’s Wade and Tony in the halls and ask them where they need you to work in the discipleship ministries of the church. Ask Wade & Rachel what SonBurst needs. Seek out John Hines, Sr. and ask him what needs repaired or maintained around the church. Send me a note and tell me where you would like to work in the coming year. Talk to Norma and Vicki and tell them of your interest in the music ministry of the church. Call the office and tell Christi you would like to volunteer some time (30 minutes a week would do amazing things) to help in the office. You can do it, I know you can, because – we can do everything through him who gives me strength. – Philippians 4:13.
Where Are You With Jesus?
Recently as I visited my father who is ailing I asked him that very question. It reminded me of Billy Moreland reporting that he had asked his dad that very question. I have asked many in the past just such a question when they were facing surgery, major illness or other serious times in their life. Dad and I discussed it.
I don’t want to wait until I ask you that question in serious need. I want to ask it today. Where are you with Jesus? Do you love God? Is He your Lord and Savior?
Before you answer that last question realize that in order for Him to be your Savior He has to be your Lord as well. We’re called in the Bible to love God more than anything. Mark 12:30 - Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.' Matthew 10:37-39 – 37 "Anyone who loves his father or mother more than me is not worthy of me; anyone who loves his son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me; 38 and anyone who does not take his cross and follow me is not worthy of me. 39 Whoever finds his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life for my sake will find it.
These are not just random Scriptures but the truth that Scriptures reveals over and over. God has to be first in your life.
How much time do you spend searching the Word of God? Do you treasure growing in the knowledge of God? This fall Pastor Tony will offer spiritually challenging classes on Sunday mornings. There are other classes as well on Sunday mornings. Pastor Tony and I and others will also offer weekday and weeknight groups/classes. Will you find one to attend? If not, why not? Do you not have time to grow in your knowledge of Christ?
Let me ask you a question this week. Do you understand the following? Do you know what sins lead to death or about the foundations of salvation? Do you understand what is meant by laying on of hands and do you practice this? Do you know how many baptisms there are, what they are and have you availed yourself of them? Do you understand so that you could explain to someone who asked you about the resurrection of the dead and about eternal judgment?
Next question, how long have you been a Christian? Have you known Jesus for a year, five years, twenty year, even fifty years or more?
Did you know that the questions I asked previously are called the elementary truths of the faith (and there are more). In the early church, probably within 10-20 years of Christ’s resurrection, the author of Hebrews was chewing out the church because they were not growing in their knowledge and understanding. Read the Scripture below.
Hebrews 5:11-6:3 – 11 We have much to say about this, but it is hard to explain because you are slow to learn. 12 In fact, though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you the elementary truths of God's word all over again. You need milk, not solid food! 13 Anyone who lives on milk, being still an infant, is not acquainted with the teaching about righteousness. 14 But solid food is for the mature, who by constant use have trained themselves to distinguish good from evil. 6:1 Therefore let us leave the elementary teachings about Christ and go on to maturity, not laying again the foundation of repentance from acts that lead to death, and of faith in God, 2 instruction about baptisms, the laying on of hands, the resurrection of the dead, and eternal judgment. 3 And God permitting, we will do so.
Having been saved, have you remained a powerless, infant Christian? Philippians 2:12-13 – Therefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed-not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence-continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, 13 for it is God who works in you to will and to act according to his good purpose. 2 Timothy 3:14-17 – 14 continue in what you have learned and have become convinced of, because you know those from whom you learned it, 15 and how from infancy you have known the holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. 16 All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, 17 so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.
I wasn’t here when this happened but recently Bryan Butland preached and asked how many knew the story of Abraham and Isaac and I’m told very few raised their hands. These basic stories should be taught to us in Sunday School. If we did not attend Sunday School (some of our members didn’t grow up in the church) or were not taught these simply Bible stories growing up we should be learning them now.
Several of our Bible Studies and Sunday classes are very basic studies going through the elementary truths of the Bible. We need to avail ourselves of these opportunities to begin to learn God’s Word. But don’t stop, saying you learned these stories and others in Sunday School or in a Bible Study. Keep learning and growing in your knowledge of the Word of God.
The Bible tells us to shine more and more, to let our light shine so that others may see Jesus (Matthew 5:16). We are also reminded that gold is of more value when refined by the fire. When the impurities are removed the gold becomes more valuable. We too become more valuable in God’s service when we become more and more like Jesus, developing our character to match His (Philippians 2:5).
Don’t be satisfied! Demand more of yourself in worship (get out of your comfort zone), spend time in prayer before worship, release your inhibitions, worship before the Lord in the Spirit. Join a class to learn more, if asked, help teach or lead others (we learn more sometimes when we study to lead others).
Revelation 3:15-18 – 15 I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were either one or the other! 16 So, because you are lukewarm-neither hot nor cold-I am about to spit you out of my mouth. 17 You say, 'I am rich; I have acquired wealth and do not need a thing.' But you do not realize that you are wretched, pitiful, poor, blind and naked. 18 I counsel you to buy from me gold refined in the fire,
I don’t want to wait until I ask you that question in serious need. I want to ask it today. Where are you with Jesus? Do you love God? Is He your Lord and Savior?
Before you answer that last question realize that in order for Him to be your Savior He has to be your Lord as well. We’re called in the Bible to love God more than anything. Mark 12:30 - Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.' Matthew 10:37-39 – 37 "Anyone who loves his father or mother more than me is not worthy of me; anyone who loves his son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me; 38 and anyone who does not take his cross and follow me is not worthy of me. 39 Whoever finds his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life for my sake will find it.
These are not just random Scriptures but the truth that Scriptures reveals over and over. God has to be first in your life.
How much time do you spend searching the Word of God? Do you treasure growing in the knowledge of God? This fall Pastor Tony will offer spiritually challenging classes on Sunday mornings. There are other classes as well on Sunday mornings. Pastor Tony and I and others will also offer weekday and weeknight groups/classes. Will you find one to attend? If not, why not? Do you not have time to grow in your knowledge of Christ?
Let me ask you a question this week. Do you understand the following? Do you know what sins lead to death or about the foundations of salvation? Do you understand what is meant by laying on of hands and do you practice this? Do you know how many baptisms there are, what they are and have you availed yourself of them? Do you understand so that you could explain to someone who asked you about the resurrection of the dead and about eternal judgment?
Next question, how long have you been a Christian? Have you known Jesus for a year, five years, twenty year, even fifty years or more?
Did you know that the questions I asked previously are called the elementary truths of the faith (and there are more). In the early church, probably within 10-20 years of Christ’s resurrection, the author of Hebrews was chewing out the church because they were not growing in their knowledge and understanding. Read the Scripture below.
Hebrews 5:11-6:3 – 11 We have much to say about this, but it is hard to explain because you are slow to learn. 12 In fact, though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you the elementary truths of God's word all over again. You need milk, not solid food! 13 Anyone who lives on milk, being still an infant, is not acquainted with the teaching about righteousness. 14 But solid food is for the mature, who by constant use have trained themselves to distinguish good from evil. 6:1 Therefore let us leave the elementary teachings about Christ and go on to maturity, not laying again the foundation of repentance from acts that lead to death, and of faith in God, 2 instruction about baptisms, the laying on of hands, the resurrection of the dead, and eternal judgment. 3 And God permitting, we will do so.
Having been saved, have you remained a powerless, infant Christian? Philippians 2:12-13 – Therefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed-not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence-continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, 13 for it is God who works in you to will and to act according to his good purpose. 2 Timothy 3:14-17 – 14 continue in what you have learned and have become convinced of, because you know those from whom you learned it, 15 and how from infancy you have known the holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. 16 All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, 17 so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.
I wasn’t here when this happened but recently Bryan Butland preached and asked how many knew the story of Abraham and Isaac and I’m told very few raised their hands. These basic stories should be taught to us in Sunday School. If we did not attend Sunday School (some of our members didn’t grow up in the church) or were not taught these simply Bible stories growing up we should be learning them now.
Several of our Bible Studies and Sunday classes are very basic studies going through the elementary truths of the Bible. We need to avail ourselves of these opportunities to begin to learn God’s Word. But don’t stop, saying you learned these stories and others in Sunday School or in a Bible Study. Keep learning and growing in your knowledge of the Word of God.
The Bible tells us to shine more and more, to let our light shine so that others may see Jesus (Matthew 5:16). We are also reminded that gold is of more value when refined by the fire. When the impurities are removed the gold becomes more valuable. We too become more valuable in God’s service when we become more and more like Jesus, developing our character to match His (Philippians 2:5).
Don’t be satisfied! Demand more of yourself in worship (get out of your comfort zone), spend time in prayer before worship, release your inhibitions, worship before the Lord in the Spirit. Join a class to learn more, if asked, help teach or lead others (we learn more sometimes when we study to lead others).
Revelation 3:15-18 – 15 I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were either one or the other! 16 So, because you are lukewarm-neither hot nor cold-I am about to spit you out of my mouth. 17 You say, 'I am rich; I have acquired wealth and do not need a thing.' But you do not realize that you are wretched, pitiful, poor, blind and naked. 18 I counsel you to buy from me gold refined in the fire,
Our Worship Services
I think we might need to stop using descriptive terms for our worship services. I think these terms are becoming divisive and disruptive. All worship; no mater what instruments or music is used, no mater how long or short or informal or formal is to be to God’s glory. It is all reverent and pleasing to God.
It will be my task and effort to make every opportunity we worship a time to approach God’s throne. I will try to develop and lead inspiring worship at all of our services. I encourage others who help lead worship to do the same. I pray that we come to give Him praise and worship and honor. Psalm 95:6-7 – 6 Come, let us bow down in worship, let us kneel before the LORD our Maker; 7 for he is our God and we are the people of his pasture, the flock under his care. Psalm 100:1-5 – 1 Shout for joy to the LORD, all the earth. 2 Worship the LORD with gladness; come before him with joyful songs. 3 Know that the LORD is God. It is he who made us, and we are his; we are his people, the sheep of his pasture. 4 Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name. 5 For the LORD is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations. John 4:24 – God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in spirit and in truth.
Currently we have three worship services that meet at 8, 9:30 and 11 am on Sunday mornings. Each of them is Spirit led and each of them should impact our walk for the week as we refuel with fellowship, prayer, praise, singing, the reading of and sharing of God’s Word in a relevant manner.
I hope to see you Sunday as we worship God together.
It will be my task and effort to make every opportunity we worship a time to approach God’s throne. I will try to develop and lead inspiring worship at all of our services. I encourage others who help lead worship to do the same. I pray that we come to give Him praise and worship and honor. Psalm 95:6-7 – 6 Come, let us bow down in worship, let us kneel before the LORD our Maker; 7 for he is our God and we are the people of his pasture, the flock under his care. Psalm 100:1-5 – 1 Shout for joy to the LORD, all the earth. 2 Worship the LORD with gladness; come before him with joyful songs. 3 Know that the LORD is God. It is he who made us, and we are his; we are his people, the sheep of his pasture. 4 Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name. 5 For the LORD is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations. John 4:24 – God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in spirit and in truth.
Currently we have three worship services that meet at 8, 9:30 and 11 am on Sunday mornings. Each of them is Spirit led and each of them should impact our walk for the week as we refuel with fellowship, prayer, praise, singing, the reading of and sharing of God’s Word in a relevant manner.
I hope to see you Sunday as we worship God together.
Sunday, August 06, 2006
Awesome Worship August 6, 2006
We had awesome worship this morning. It was great to be back at MZ for sure. The sermon series began today - The Character of a Godly Person and continues next week. You can hear today's sermon at Character or by going to the web page. You can listen to a portion of our 9:30 worship this morning at 9:30 Contemporary Worship Clip. This clip can also be found through a link on the web page www.mzumc.com.
Revival is next week, Sunday through Wednesday and I hope you find the time to attend and visit if you are not from MZ. Bill Itzel, a local Christian artist will bring special music Monday through Wednesday. Make plans now to attend each evening at 7 pm.
Blessings to you all!
Revival is next week, Sunday through Wednesday and I hope you find the time to attend and visit if you are not from MZ. Bill Itzel, a local Christian artist will bring special music Monday through Wednesday. Make plans now to attend each evening at 7 pm.
Blessings to you all!
Saturday, August 05, 2006
Child Care
MZ Folks and Friends,
Child Care is an essential part of our ministry to young families. If we expect to reach young families for Jesus we need to provide child care at worship services, congregational meetings if we want to hear their ideas, and even a few Bible Studies and Home Groups.
A number of young parents come to church alone these days and it is harder to handle children with only one parent. Some children are harder than others to handle too.
Have you taken a turn in the nursery or cribbery during worship lately? A church our size should be able to provide these needs through volunteers. With three worship services or two if we move offsite combining two of them, the other service(s) should be able to provide this for each other. Don’t use excuses like I’m too busy, too old, did my time, not my children, mine sat in church with me, and more. If we do not see this as a ministry and begin to step forward, either as volunteers or through (choke) a paid position, we will not reach or keep young families at MZ.
Volunteers should see their work as unto the Lord. Colossians 3:23-24 – 23 Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men, 24 since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.
We need people who will work with the children in SonBurst, with the youth in Youth Group (the Circles), and with our adult programs. We need people who will work around the church keeping the grounds looking nice and more. Where is your place to help? When you take a task on, do it to the best of your ability and be serious and committed to that task. God will be blessed and pleased.
Can you help with Child Care? If so, please see Pastor Wade or Rachel or call the office or contact Rev. Ray or Pastor Tony. If you can help in any way, let us know. A church depends a great deal on Volunteerism and we need you to serve God at MZ!
Child Care is an essential part of our ministry to young families. If we expect to reach young families for Jesus we need to provide child care at worship services, congregational meetings if we want to hear their ideas, and even a few Bible Studies and Home Groups.
A number of young parents come to church alone these days and it is harder to handle children with only one parent. Some children are harder than others to handle too.
Have you taken a turn in the nursery or cribbery during worship lately? A church our size should be able to provide these needs through volunteers. With three worship services or two if we move offsite combining two of them, the other service(s) should be able to provide this for each other. Don’t use excuses like I’m too busy, too old, did my time, not my children, mine sat in church with me, and more. If we do not see this as a ministry and begin to step forward, either as volunteers or through (choke) a paid position, we will not reach or keep young families at MZ.
Volunteers should see their work as unto the Lord. Colossians 3:23-24 – 23 Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men, 24 since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.
We need people who will work with the children in SonBurst, with the youth in Youth Group (the Circles), and with our adult programs. We need people who will work around the church keeping the grounds looking nice and more. Where is your place to help? When you take a task on, do it to the best of your ability and be serious and committed to that task. God will be blessed and pleased.
Can you help with Child Care? If so, please see Pastor Wade or Rachel or call the office or contact Rev. Ray or Pastor Tony. If you can help in any way, let us know. A church depends a great deal on Volunteerism and we need you to serve God at MZ!
Thursday, August 03, 2006
From the Pastor 8/4/06
Last night (Wednesday) we had a meeting to discuss our contemporary worship services. We spent some time talking about our worship and I wanted to share some with the whole congregation. We had a very good representation, around 40 people in all at the gathering.
We defined worship a number of ways. For most, worship was a time of coming into the presence of God. It involved music, praises, prayer and the Word of God.
We talked about the elements of contemporary worship and how they help/hinder person’s worship of God. Most greatly appreciated the Praise Band and saw them as an integral part of contemporary worship. Some wanted more, some wanted less music. Some wanted it louder. Some wanted a service not bound by time or order/bulletin. Some wanted to make sure the pastors had time to preach what God had laid on their hearts. Some wanted children more involved in the service and with their families; others wanted activities for the children during worship. And I could go on and on. It was a great meeting for people to open up and share.
After this time of sharing we presented a FAQ sheet with some thoughts about moving the two contemporary services offsite. There was again great discussion. It was stressed by several persons that our Sunday morning education time has suffered since we placed a service at the same time as our main education time. A two fold purpose was presented a number of times, reminding us that we not only need to draw persons to Christ through our worship services but we need to disciple them as well through our Sunday and weekly education opportunities. A reminder that parents ought to be the primary trainer of their children in religion brought a reminder that most parents do not do this for various reasons. A reminder was shared with those gathered that in order to train and equip children/youth/adults many volunteers are needed, not just the paid staff. We really want a dynamic children and youth program but do not at this time have the volunteer base we need.
A consensus was reached to further investigate moving the contemporary services offsite until other arrangements could be made. Below is a revised FAQ sheet, much like what was shared at the gathering with minor adjustments resulting from the gathering. Future discussion meetings will be held (next will be August 10th at 7 pm) and at some point we will have a congregational vote (on Sunday mornings so everyone attending can vote instead of only those who attend a meeting).
No timeline was set but in a discussion this morning with Pastor Tony we both agreed that some time this fall was the ideal time because of people looking for a church when the children go back in school and we’re moving toward Christmas. But, we’ll move in God’s time on this issue.
The denomination has also expressed interest in our developing an offsite contemporary service and has promised some financial assistance as outlined below. Your prayers and thoughts are vital and your help as well.
When you look at the two plans for our proposed Sunday mornings, plan A was trying to keep the largest service at the same time and plan B placed the main education time between the services. Both proposals tried to end our mornings around noon. We also tried not to affect the traditional service at all, leaving their time alone and providing adult education for those who attend that service.
Moving Contemporary Worship Offsite FAQ Sheet
1. Why would we consider this move?
Our vision is to make disciples of Jesus Christ. Most experts report that a neutral meeting place attracts more people than a traditional setting. (Comment: If our goal is to reach more folks for Jesus the hardships of this move might need to be placed on the back burner.) In talking to those who lead/participate in worship the idea of a larger setting and one contemporary service has always been appealing. Joining the two contemporary services together with room to grow is not possible on location at this time. The denomination is supportive of this move. They would like to see a contemporary setting in South County. MZ and Cedar Grove have done a good job of developing contemporary worship at traditional settings. If the United Methodist Church wants to have a presence in South County in the contemporary worship arena, something new needs to be done.
2. What are some of the pros of this move?
- Contemporary setting that allows for outreach and growth
- More welcoming and inviting place, more visible place to the community which enables us to reach more people, people who would not come to MZ for historical/personal reasons
- Opportunity for both pastors to teach on Sunday mornings
- Two services instead of three – which is less work for volunteers and staff in worship
3. What are some of the cons of this move?
- Added expense for the rental of Southern Middle
- Travel to and from this offsite location
- Setup and takedown of the worship setting each week
- Equipment sharing with traditional service or purchase of travel equipment
- Some may not travel between locations
- Volunteers, volunteers, volunteers
4. What will our Sunday morning schedule look like?
- Plan A
8:00m Traditional Worship in Sanctuary
8:00am Education at MZ – Adult classes
9:30am Contemporary Worship offsite at Southern Middle
9:30am Education at MZ – Adult classes and children/youth classes as needed
11:15am Education at MZ – SonBurst and adult classes
- Plan B
8:00am Traditional Worship in Sanctuary
8:00am Education at MZ – Adult classes
9:15am Education at MZ – SonBurst and Adult classes
10:30am Contemporary Worship offsite at Southern Middle cafeteria
5. Volunteers needed?
Of course all of our ministries need volunteers – especially SonBurst, Youth, Cribbery/Nursery. The new setting would need volunteers too, like parking lot greeters, welcoming teams, ushers, setup/takedown teams, hospitality teams, ministry fair persons, information directors and more. Currently, volunteers for SonBurst are affected by the 9:30 worship & SonBurst happening at the same time.
6. Denominational Involvement?
A grant will be applied for that will have two components. 1- A portion of the grant would bring us $15,000 a year (renewal as needed and approved) for rent. 2- Another portion of the grant would bring us $12,000 a year (renewal as needed and approved) for a worship leader 10-12 hours a week to work with the pastor to design the contemporary service, work with the band and lead worship, taking us to the next level in worship.
7. Long range plans?
Multiple choices:
- Stay at Southern Middle – will hold 600, no mortgage, no repairs, no use of building during the week. $1,500,000 worship center at 5.75% for 30 years is $2,020.06 a week. Three hour rental & fees for SM will be under $600 a week.
- Return to MZ and build new worship center (old Sanctinasium plan?)
- Buy land else where and build new worship center
I hope this helps the whole church grasp what we discussed at the gathering August 2nd. Our next discussion time will be August 10th at 7 pm. I hope you can attend.
Your Friend and Pastor,
Rev. Ray
We defined worship a number of ways. For most, worship was a time of coming into the presence of God. It involved music, praises, prayer and the Word of God.
We talked about the elements of contemporary worship and how they help/hinder person’s worship of God. Most greatly appreciated the Praise Band and saw them as an integral part of contemporary worship. Some wanted more, some wanted less music. Some wanted it louder. Some wanted a service not bound by time or order/bulletin. Some wanted to make sure the pastors had time to preach what God had laid on their hearts. Some wanted children more involved in the service and with their families; others wanted activities for the children during worship. And I could go on and on. It was a great meeting for people to open up and share.
After this time of sharing we presented a FAQ sheet with some thoughts about moving the two contemporary services offsite. There was again great discussion. It was stressed by several persons that our Sunday morning education time has suffered since we placed a service at the same time as our main education time. A two fold purpose was presented a number of times, reminding us that we not only need to draw persons to Christ through our worship services but we need to disciple them as well through our Sunday and weekly education opportunities. A reminder that parents ought to be the primary trainer of their children in religion brought a reminder that most parents do not do this for various reasons. A reminder was shared with those gathered that in order to train and equip children/youth/adults many volunteers are needed, not just the paid staff. We really want a dynamic children and youth program but do not at this time have the volunteer base we need.
A consensus was reached to further investigate moving the contemporary services offsite until other arrangements could be made. Below is a revised FAQ sheet, much like what was shared at the gathering with minor adjustments resulting from the gathering. Future discussion meetings will be held (next will be August 10th at 7 pm) and at some point we will have a congregational vote (on Sunday mornings so everyone attending can vote instead of only those who attend a meeting).
No timeline was set but in a discussion this morning with Pastor Tony we both agreed that some time this fall was the ideal time because of people looking for a church when the children go back in school and we’re moving toward Christmas. But, we’ll move in God’s time on this issue.
The denomination has also expressed interest in our developing an offsite contemporary service and has promised some financial assistance as outlined below. Your prayers and thoughts are vital and your help as well.
When you look at the two plans for our proposed Sunday mornings, plan A was trying to keep the largest service at the same time and plan B placed the main education time between the services. Both proposals tried to end our mornings around noon. We also tried not to affect the traditional service at all, leaving their time alone and providing adult education for those who attend that service.
Moving Contemporary Worship Offsite FAQ Sheet
1. Why would we consider this move?
Our vision is to make disciples of Jesus Christ. Most experts report that a neutral meeting place attracts more people than a traditional setting. (Comment: If our goal is to reach more folks for Jesus the hardships of this move might need to be placed on the back burner.) In talking to those who lead/participate in worship the idea of a larger setting and one contemporary service has always been appealing. Joining the two contemporary services together with room to grow is not possible on location at this time. The denomination is supportive of this move. They would like to see a contemporary setting in South County. MZ and Cedar Grove have done a good job of developing contemporary worship at traditional settings. If the United Methodist Church wants to have a presence in South County in the contemporary worship arena, something new needs to be done.
2. What are some of the pros of this move?
- Contemporary setting that allows for outreach and growth
- More welcoming and inviting place, more visible place to the community which enables us to reach more people, people who would not come to MZ for historical/personal reasons
- Opportunity for both pastors to teach on Sunday mornings
- Two services instead of three – which is less work for volunteers and staff in worship
3. What are some of the cons of this move?
- Added expense for the rental of Southern Middle
- Travel to and from this offsite location
- Setup and takedown of the worship setting each week
- Equipment sharing with traditional service or purchase of travel equipment
- Some may not travel between locations
- Volunteers, volunteers, volunteers
4. What will our Sunday morning schedule look like?
- Plan A
8:00m Traditional Worship in Sanctuary
8:00am Education at MZ – Adult classes
9:30am Contemporary Worship offsite at Southern Middle
9:30am Education at MZ – Adult classes and children/youth classes as needed
11:15am Education at MZ – SonBurst and adult classes
- Plan B
8:00am Traditional Worship in Sanctuary
8:00am Education at MZ – Adult classes
9:15am Education at MZ – SonBurst and Adult classes
10:30am Contemporary Worship offsite at Southern Middle cafeteria
5. Volunteers needed?
Of course all of our ministries need volunteers – especially SonBurst, Youth, Cribbery/Nursery. The new setting would need volunteers too, like parking lot greeters, welcoming teams, ushers, setup/takedown teams, hospitality teams, ministry fair persons, information directors and more. Currently, volunteers for SonBurst are affected by the 9:30 worship & SonBurst happening at the same time.
6. Denominational Involvement?
A grant will be applied for that will have two components. 1- A portion of the grant would bring us $15,000 a year (renewal as needed and approved) for rent. 2- Another portion of the grant would bring us $12,000 a year (renewal as needed and approved) for a worship leader 10-12 hours a week to work with the pastor to design the contemporary service, work with the band and lead worship, taking us to the next level in worship.
7. Long range plans?
Multiple choices:
- Stay at Southern Middle – will hold 600, no mortgage, no repairs, no use of building during the week. $1,500,000 worship center at 5.75% for 30 years is $2,020.06 a week. Three hour rental & fees for SM will be under $600 a week.
- Return to MZ and build new worship center (old Sanctinasium plan?)
- Buy land else where and build new worship center
I hope this helps the whole church grasp what we discussed at the gathering August 2nd. Our next discussion time will be August 10th at 7 pm. I hope you can attend.
Your Friend and Pastor,
Rev. Ray
