Wednesday, September 11, 2013
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 | Pastor Craig Brown
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Fulfillment = Perfection = Purpose
Our current worship theme Life. Fulfilled. speaks to me at many different levels. First and foremost, I hear the promise of God that life was always meant to be a fulfilling experience. God's purpose for each and every one of us, and for the world, is that life is to be relished and enjoyed. This does not mean to say that all of life has to do with endless happiness! It does mean that our relationship with God and understanding who we are in God's world is all the fulfillment that we will ever need. There is no obstacle or difficulty that can steal this fulfillment from us. Ours is a life grounded in God's grace!
Yet I also hear the word fulfillment in relationship to the Wesleyan concept of perfection. In the language of the Christian Scripture, the concept of perfection means "to be complete." A perfect life is a fulfilled life. God's promise is fulfillment, but God's call is toward deeper faith and trust in this adventure that will lead us toward perfection!
The most potent meaning of Life. Fulfilled. for me today is that my life has a purpose. Each day is to draw me closer to the fulfillment of that purpose. Life is not some random collision of relationships and events that define us. God is purposeful in moving this entire world toward its fulfillment. The Scriptures speak often of this fulfilled world and the role we have in it. Revelation chapter 20 gives us a picture of a new heaven and new earth with some engaging values (I encourage you to read it!). This is a vision of a fulfilled world. Each one of us must live toward the fulfillment of our life's purpose in Christ, thus bringing the world itself closer and closer to its own fulfillment. Life. Fulfilled. is not just about fulfillment from God. It is also about God using us to fulfill His grace for the world. It is a promise and call all at the same time! Craig+
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 WORSHIP
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WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2013
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VESPER COMMUNION | 5:30 PM | Sanctuary | Rev. Greg LaDue
Music for Meditation begins at 5:15 | Free childcare by RSVP - Reserve here
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Wednesday Night Dinner & Study
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SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 2013
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TRADITIONAL 8 ~ 9:30 ~ 11 | Sanctuary | Rev. Craig Brown.
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NON-TRADITIONAL
Water's Edge | 9:30 | The Cove, United Methodist Center | POTLUCK SUNDAY!Rev. Jessica Strysko | Band | EVENING: F5 | 5 PM | Linder Hall | Rev. Elbert Kim | Band
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CHILDREN'S SUNDAY SCHOOL | 9:20 | Meet in Trotter Chapel The children meet in the Chapel at 9:20 and are escorted to their Sunday School classrooms. Pick-up is in the amphitheater at 10:30. Read Pastor Jessica's weekly message
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CHAPEL COMMUNION | 10:40 | Trotter Chapel
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Sunday, September 22: BAPTISM for infants and young children | All services | Sanctuary
If you are interested in having a child baptized call Demmie in the church office at 619-297-4366, ext. 108, or email her at [email protected].
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WEDNESDAY - TONIGHT!
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M O R N I N G
E V E N I N G
5:15 PM - Vespers Sanctuary | Music for meditation | Communion
6 PM - Dinner ($6) Linder Hall | RSVP to the office 619-297-4366 by Mon.
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MEMBERSHIP
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Explore First Church
Sunday, September 15 | 12:15 PM | Linder Hall 2
You are invited to gather for a meal and time with the pastors and staff. It will be a fun time to break bread, make some new friends and explore membership. New members will be received on Sunday, September 29, 11 AM. Questions? Contact Demmie Divine, 619-297-4366.
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FOOD MINISTRY
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Peanut Butter and Jelly Drive
Sunday, September15
Loaves & Fishes is seeking donations of peanut butter, jelly, and sandwich bread. This food ministry frequently lacks sandwich bread which is popular with our clients. Bring sandwich bread any Sunday and leave it on the table in Linder Hall. Donations may be dropped off in Linder Hall any time during the week, too. Thank you for your continued support of the Food Ministry program.
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CHILDREN & YOUTH
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New Acolyte Sign-ups Sunday, September 15
Sign-ups for new Acolytes will occur between services this Sunday, September 15 on the patio. This is the once-a-year opportunity for youth in grades 5-11 to train (October) to become important leaders in our worship services. Acolytes serve once every 4-6 weeks. Current Acolytes may sign up for Fall/Winter services at the same time. For further information, visit the Acolyte table or phone Ron De Fields, Acolyte Coordinator, at (619) 461-5457.
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Fall Festival Seeking Fun Booth Sponsors!
The Children's Ministry is asking all FUMC-affiliated groups to sponsor a booth. Families can lead crafts or a games, too! All are welcome to join in the fun. Sponsors provide the raw materials and supervision for the booth. Prizes will be provided by the Children's Ministry and distributed among the various booths. Last year, we had over 400 people participate!
If you want to help, but are short on inspiration, contact Pastor Jessica for ideas. Individuals can help in the kitchen or with decorating. Please contact us by October 6.
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SERVE
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Hands and Hearts to Serve
Sunday, September 15, on the patio
Have you been wondering how you can best use your special talents within the church? There is a place for you, and you are needed! Our Nominating Committee is developing a slate of incoming members for First Church's administrative committees for 2014 and beyond, and would love to know where you might like to serve. Find out more here...
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CLASSES
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Sunday, September 22 | 11 AM - 12 PM | Linder Lounge | Free
Parents and students (grades 10-12 will learn about college financial aid and types of financial assistance available. Primary responsibility of paying for college rests with the student and family. Find out how you can pay for college. Presented by First Church member Frank Jonasson, Ed.M., who will share his knowledge and be available to answer your questions. RSVP online...
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Alpha - Join the Millions
Join the millions of people around the world exploring questions of faith in Alpha. Register now! The Launch Party/Dinner is September 25 and the course begins Wed. October 2 and goes through November 13 with dinner at 6 PM and ending at 8. On November 2 there will be a Stay Retreat. You don't want to miss it.
Learn more about Alpha and register online...
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Sowing for the Future Harvest
Sunday, October 6 | 11 AM - 12 PM | Linder Lounge
Don't miss this opportunity to consider the Scripture's call to stewardship and the planned giving tools available to help you achieve this goal. Planned giving tools that provide the donor with lifetime income will be included.
The Endowment Development Committee invites you to join the Rev. Greg Batson, President/CEO of the California-Pacific United Methodist Foundation, as he introduces: Wills/Bequests, IRA Charitable Rollovers, Charitable Gift Annuities, and Charitable Remainder Trusts.
Refreshments will be served and there will be time to visit with the speaker informally following the presentation should you have additional questions. RSVP here ...
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HEALTH
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For Male Family Caregivers:
Batter Up! Getting into the Game of Caregiving
Friday, September 20 | 9 AM - 1 PM | Linder Hall | Free
One-third of family caregivers are male and this number is rapidly rising! If you are a male, providing care to or are concerned about an adult family member or friend, then attend this free event sponsored by the Caregiver Coalition of San Diego. Register at 800-827-1008. More details here...
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FUNdRAISER
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"The Bunnell Strings
are a must-see," says
Spring Fling Chair,
Carol LeBeau.
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Join us for an evening with the Bunnell Strings!
The Bunnell Strings will be the featured entertainment at this year's FUNdraiser!
Saturday, October 5 | 5 - 7 PM | Linder Hall.
This energetic string quintet of siblings returns to First Church, following their well-received performance at the Spring Fling earlier this year. You will be thrilled by their music and touched by their story of faith, family and music.The Bunnell family quintet brings together a cello, viola, two violins and a double bass, transforming classical, pop, and rock genres with their crossover blend of styles.
Tickets are $30 each and are available online here... or purchase them Sundays on the patio or in the church office week days. This is an event you and your friends don't want to miss!
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MUSIC
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Wednesday, September 25 | 6:45 PM | Sutherland Music Center | Led by Stan Wicks. How did the Lutherans, at the beginning on the Protestant Reformation sing "A Mighty Fortress"? Join us to find out! We will explore the great line of Lutheran hymnody from the beginning of the Reformation until the present. Experience how this great body of repertoire shaped the Protestant movement and its worship practices -- making an impact on the Wesley brothers at the beginning of Methodism in the 18th century, and continue into the 21st century. Many of the hymns (or chorales as they were originally named) will be familiar to you!
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 Vocalist Ron Banks Headlines September 29 Pops Concert
Sunday, September 29 | 7 PM | Linder Hall
The Cultural Events Committee's fall concert season will get underway with Ron Banks performing "Bass-Baritone Boffo Broadway Bonanza." This annual pops concert will feature a singer who is familiar to many at First Church, having served as the Chancel Choir bass soloist and section leader at the beginning of an avocation that has blossomed into a full-blown musical theater career. Pianist Diane Snodgrass will serve as accompanist. The Musical Merit Foundation of Greater San Diego is co-sponsoring this event for their former scholarship award winner, and a "welcome back" reception will be held for Ron following the performance. A donation will be collected at the door and child care is available by contacting the church office in advance. Read in-depth here...
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F5
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F5 -> FOLLOW
FUN | FELLOWSHIP | FAITH | FRIENDS
<- Is life difficult in your own hands? Try placing it in God's.
Come, be a follower this Sunday, September 15, at 5 PM.
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SDSCS
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Visualizing Social Justice: A Juried Photography Exhibition
Saturday, September 28 | Trotter Chapel & Linder Hall
Judging is finished and photographers whose work have been selected are being notified. Next up: hanging the exhibition and getting ready for ...
Exhibition Opening and Reception, 4-5 PM
You are invited to the opening and reception of this exhibition that bears witness to social justice and realities of hope -- juried by professionals at Museum of Photographic Art in San Diego's Balboa Park. Images will be on display in Trotter Chapel and an artists' reception will take place in Linder Hall. Then, stay for the program and lecture from 5-7 PM focusing on the practice of social justice, see below.
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Rev. Dr. Art Cribbs
Exec. Director of CLUE-California (Clergy and Laity United for Economic Justice)
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Faith Out Front: Putting into Practice Social Justice Ministry
Saturday, September 28 | 5-7 PM | Linder Hall Tuition: $10 -- Register hereFree for students and those who submitted photographs
There is a reason the religious leaders called into question Jesus' authority. Jesus had no known record of having attended an accredited university or seminary. He did not belong to an official, recognized religious order with standing of ordination. Jesus lived his faith publicly. Today, followers of Jesus continue to put our Faith Out Front. Rev. Cribbs will present a perspective on practical Christianity that integrates the Gospel and our daily lives as a means of giving purpose to who we are, what we believe, and the way we publicly practice our faith.
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MISSION
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First Church Volunteers Join NY-Sandy Relief Mission Team
District Big Band Jazz Fundraiser: Monday, Sept. 30, 7-8 PM | Linder Hall
The South District UMC New York - Sandy Relief Mission Team departs October 5 for a week-long work trip helping communities affected by hurricane Sandy. First Church Team members include: Marjory Clyne, Brooke Collins, Kurt Dahlvig and Jeremy Silva. Please keep these and the 16 other volunteers in your prayers. Each team member has paid a portion of the trip cost. To help defray costs, all are invited to hear Rey Vinole's Big Band and sample hors d'oeurves and desserts, $10/adult, $5/child, more info here ... For trip details, read here ...
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PILGRIMAGE
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Pastor Craig Brown to Lead Pilgrimage to
Christian England and Scotland in October of 2014
Make your advance plans now to join Pastor Craig and others from First Church on a life-changing Pilgrimage to England and Scotland. Pastor Craig is planning now to lead a group from our church for an exploration of our Celtic and Wesleyan roots. In the months of October, November and December of this year, Pastor Craig will host several informational gatherings about the pilgrimage and how to sign up for this powerful experience. These informational gatherings will be all held in The Cove from 12:15-1:15 each Sunday. Make plans to join in one of these gatherings on October 27, November 10, and December 15.
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GATHERINGS
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NEIGHBORHOOD GATHERINGS FOR CRAIG & FAMILY
Come and meet Pastor Craig Brown and family at a Neighborhood Gathering near you! Each gathering will be from 3 - 5 PM at the following locations:
- Saturday, September 14: home of Bruce & Carol Dubke, 4701 Date Ave., Unit 321, La Mesa, 91941
- Sunday, September 15: home of Joe & Joyce Timmons, 650 Columbia St. Community Room, Downtown, Little Italy 92101
- Saturday, September 21: home of Lynette Williamson, 6703 Parkside Ave. Bonita, National City, Paradise Hills 92139
- Sunday, September 22: home of Doug & Vera Stanfield, 15373 Avenida Rorras, Rancho Bernardo 92128
If you live in one of these areas and would like to attend a gathering please RSVP with the date of the gathering to Demmie Divine, 619-297-4366 x108.
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NOTICES
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Friday Night Singles (50+ or -) meets every Friday at 6 PM for a meal followed by various activities. Email Karen Maczka or call 619-263-3743. Ralph's Rewards Card for Missions - By registering your Ralph's Rewards Card, Ralph's will contribute to our Missions ministries at First Church. You can register at www.ralphs.com, begin by selecting the "Create an Account" button and follow the prompts. Be sure to designate The First United Methodist Church of San Diego #82033 to receive the funds from your shopping. If you already participate, you must renew each year by registering at the same website. Sign-in and follow the prompts.
Our "Just a Little Gift" Shop" is open every Sunday before and after services from 9 AM-12:30 PM. It is located below the sanctuary, through the sanctuary meeting room (behind the Christ window).
Free Neighborhood Family Meal: Next meal is on Monday, September 30, 5:30-7 PM. Help provide and serve food and enjoy fellowship with families, teens, seniors and people in need of a nutritious, hot meal at Normal Heights UMC, 4650 Mansfield St. Volunteers prepare and bring a main dish, salad or dessert. Email Brenda Blake or call 619-297-4366 x125, to sign up.
Prayers & Squares Prayer Quilt Ministry meets twice a month. For our next meeting, see our 2013 schedule.
The 2013 Altar Flower Calendar has openings for Sundays in September and October. Please help us fill those dates. Call Eleene in the church office at 619-297-4366 to make your reservation. Each bouquet is $50. Fall Prevention Awareness Week, Sept 22-28: The County of San Diego's Fall Prevention Task Force has planned six events in locations around the County to educate older adults and caregivers on how to prevent falls. Locations include downtown San Diego, Chula Vista, La Mesa, Carlsbad, Poway, and Vista. Each event will feature dynamic speakers, balance screenings, and exhibitors with local resources. All events are free - register by calling the Southern Caregiver Resource Center at 1-800-827-1008. You are invited to celebrate the appointment of Rev. John Farley as District Superintendent of the South District on Sunday, October 6, at San Dieguito UMC, 170 Calle Magdalena, in Encinitas. 3 PM service in sanctuary, catered reception follows at 4. Save the Date:
- Social Action & Justice Sunday and Faith in Action Fair, September 29. We'll lift up this important ministry in worship and there will be a fair in Linder Hall showcasing all the programs within this ministry.
- Financial Peace University returns with a fall session beginning October 16. Preview the course on Sunday, October 6, 10:45 AM - 12 PM, Linder Hall 2 (childcare available).
- Women's Retreat, Saturday, October 26, 2913, 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., Linder Hall. Tickets are $45 per person. All the details here ...
- Flights of Fancy Recital, Sunday, October 27, 7 PM. Organist Bob Plimpton teams up with cellist Aaron Bullard for this Cultural Events Music Series presentation.
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eNEWS, the official newsletter of First United Methodist Church of San Diego, is published every Wednesday. To submit an article for consideration, send to [email protected] by the Wednesday of the week prior to publication
2111 CAMINO DEL RIO S. IN MISSION VALLEY | 619-297-4366 | WWW.FUMCSD.ORG
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