|
Dear Founders,
Well, hello! Guess what? I'm finally home! I had a little longer ride home than expected, traveling through Dublin, Ireland, then through London, England. I finally arrived home 24 hours later than I had planned. I have to tell you, though, that the Clergy Retreat was absolutely amazing. I knew we were staying in Assisi, Italy, but I had no idea we would literally walk through the life of St. Francis. I learned so much, and I so enjoyed spending time with other MCC Clergy in person. It was so refreshing!
I do want to thank all of you who kept things going while I was away. I never have to worry about what happens at FMCC when I leave town - we have wonderful leadership! I do have to thank Louis Ramirez for all he did to make sure everything went well in both services. Thanks, Louis!
I also want to thank Bam Noriega for moderating the services, as well as Azariah Southworth for his sermon and Eric Buter for his dramatic presentation. Also, special thanks to Keith Tyler for sharing his musical talent while Louis was away. The Spirit sure moved in all the services!
This Sunday, I'll continue November's theme of Gratitude with a message entitled, Thank You, Thank You, Jesus! If you'd like to read ahead, check out Luke 17:11-19 (Message Version).
By the way, don't forget we will have the Trans Chorus of Los Angeles in worship with us as we honor Trans Day of Remembrance. Also, don't forget that our Congregational Meeting is immediately after worship this Sunday. So much to look forward to! Come expecting to be a blessing and receive a blessing! See you Sunday!
Pastor Keith
| |
|
Reading is taken from Luke, Chapter 17,
Verses 11 through 19
(The Message Version)
It happened that as he made his way toward Jerusalem, Jesus crossed over the border between Samaria and Galilee. As he entered a village, ten men, all lepers, met him. They kept their distance but raised their voices, calling out, “Jesus, Healer, have mercy on us!”
Taking a good look at them, he said, “Go, show yourselves to the priests.”
They went, and while still on their way, became clean. One of them, when he realized that he was healed, turned around and came back, shouting his gratitude, glorifying God. He kneeled at Jesus’ feet, so grateful. He couldn’t thank him enough—and he was a Samaritan.
Jesus said, “Were not ten healed? Where are the nine? Can none be found to come back and give glory to God except this outsider?” Then he said to him, “Get up. On your way. Your faith has healed and saved you.”
| |
Interested in Church Membership? Or, maybe, you just want to know more about our church's core beliefs and history. Set up an online meeting with Rev. Steve Swafford at membership@mccla.org for an individualized study! | |
|
With God All Things Are Possible (Matthew 19:26)
TOTAL ROOFING COST =$146,196.00
GIVEN AS OF Nov. 3rd. =$84,681.00
REMAINING NEED =$61,515.00
| |
Does anyone have a spare bass guitar laying around the house, or know of someone who does and is willing to donate it to the Music Ministry here at FMCC/ICMF? Please contact our Minister of Music, Louis Ramirez. (Also needing a bass amplifier.) | |
MCC Kinship Groups
Kinship Groups offer a safe space of connecting with other people of similar struggles and challenges. We have groups for Trans, PAD, API, God-Talk, and Latinx.
If you have any questions, are interested in a particular Kinship group, or interested in forming another Kinship group, you may email Rev. Hector Gutierrez.
| |
Hoodies now available for the LOW price of $40. Proceeds will go towards the LatinX Ministry. Sign-up sheets are available. Hoodies can be purchased by cash or PushPay, using "Special Offering / Other Designated Funds" | |
|
The City of LA Dept of Public Works has notified us of street work that will be happening in the month of November on Rodney Drive, from Franklin to Sunset Blvd.
"No Parking" notices will be posted 24 hours prior to the work. Vehicles will have access; however, it is requested that driving be limited to avoid possible vehicle damage. The only time access will be restricted is when the street is coated with liquid asphalt.
| |
Today, Saturday, November 16. Congregational Forum to discuss the budget and ministry reports. The Church Ministry Reports are available for viewing on the church website. | |
|
Being MCC in Politically Perilous Times in the U.S.A.
Moving from Independence to Interdependence
Attention U.S. Pastors, Pastoral Leaders, Network Leaders, and Lay Delegates:
This Message is for YOU!
| |
|
While on our journey of faith, those who live in the U.S. now find ourselves in politically perilous times. And, we know that MCCers are always STRONGER TOGETHER when we share our journey in faith, prayer, and love.
So we, the Council of Elders, invite you to join us as we explore what we carry in our ‘spiritual backpack’ on this journey and choose to move from independence to interdependence through listening, prayer, action, and hope. We are indeed stronger together and even stronger with love.
The first meeting will include an introduction and invite feedback. We hope you will join us:
Zoom Link:
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/87363356214?pwd=TzhldUkyZmJsWkNPNi9pd3dERTREZz09
Future meetings will be held on the following Saturdays, same time, using the same Zoom link:
Today, Saturday, November 16
(post-election debriefs).
If you believe this is a good idea but are unable to attend, please let us know by emailing the Council of Elders at: [coe@mccchurch.net]. And, we welcome your suggestions regarding what is important and helpful to you on this journey toward the U.S. elections.
Please note: this U.S. gathering is the first of several that are being considered globally.
Faithfully, the MCC Council of Elders:
Rev. Elder Cecilia Eggleston, Moderator
Elder Hattie Alexander-Key
Rev. Elder Mark Byrd
Rev. Elder Nokuthula Dhladhla
Elder Velma Garcia
Rev. Elder Rich Hendricks
Rev. Elder Aaron Miller
Rev. Elder Elaine Saralegui Caraballo
Rev. Elder Stuart Sutherland
| |
|
The Science of Gender Identity
Join Q Christian Fellowship on November 17th as we gain insight into the science of sex and gender diversity from three experts - a pediatric internist, endocrinologist and geneticist.
The cost to attend this event is $10 per attendee; scholarships are available by emailing [samantha@qchristian.org].
Schedule: Tomorrow, Sunday, November 17 (Sunday) at 8AM ET / 5PM PT.
Register Now
| |
Tomorrow, Sunday, Nov 17th, The Trans Chorus of Los Angeles will be our special guests to celebrate Transgender Remembrance Day. Trans*Unity will be providing pizza for Hospitality time. | |
Tomorrow, Sunday, Nov 17th. Annual Congregational Meeting after 10 am service. It will be finished by the time the 1:30 LatinX service starts. Reports can be pre-accessed at foundersmcc.org | |
Tomorrow, Sunday, Nov 17th. We will be picking up a special offering for the MCC Special Disaster Fund, to help MCC churches from Florida up to North Carolina that were affected by Hurricanes Helene and Milton. | |
|
Next Saturday, Nov 23rd, 8-11 am, Trans*Unity yard sale
for the Christine Daniels scholarship fund
| |
|
Attention U.S. Pastors, Pastoral Leaders, Network Leaders, and Lay Delegates:
This Message is for YOU!
| |
|
Your Council of Elders is offering three sessions Thursday, 7th November, for lifting and providing pastoral care following the national and state elections held this week. These three sessions are designed to offer a safe space for you as pastors, pastoral and lay leaders in USA churches, for sharing, for prayers, and for reflections.
Please know we are here for you and we hope you can join with everyone on as we share together as the Spirit moves in and guides us all!
Blessings for now and all that we face together,
Council of Elders
Faithfully, the MCC Council of Elders:
Rev. Elder Cecilia Eggleston, Moderator
Elder Hattie Alexander-Key
Rev. Elder Mark Byrd
Rev. Elder Nokuthula Dhladhla
Elder Velma Garcia
Rev. Elder Rich Hendricks
Rev. Elder Aaron Miller
Rev. Elder Elaine Saralegui Caraballo
Rev. Elder Stuart Sutherland
| |
|
We expect to see Your reign on earth as it is in heaven, and we will work toward a world where everyone has enough, wars cease, and all creation lives in harmony.
Hi I’m the Reverend Stuart Sutherland serving on the Council of Elders. I’m from Down Under Sydney Australia. In the Statement of Faith, “We expect to see Your reign on earth as it is in heaven, and we will work toward a world where everyone has enough, wars cease, and all creation lives in harmony.”
In the Lord's Prayer, we recite, "Your kingdom come, yours will be done on earth as it is in heaven." This profound petition reflects a deep yearning for a world where God's reign manifests in every facet of our existence. As we reflect on these words, we are called to envision and strive for a reality where divine justice, peace, and harmony prevail. It is a call to action, a directive to work tirelessly toward a world where everyone has enough, wars cease, and all creation lives in harmony.
When we pray for God's kingdom to come, we are invoking a vision of abundance. In heaven, there is no lack or suffering; every need is met, and every soul is fulfilled. This heavenly abundance is not just spiritual but also material, encompassing the basic needs of all creation. On earth, this translates to a world where resources are shared equitably, ensuring that no one goes hungry or lacks shelter, education, or healthcare.
This heavenly vision also includes the cessation of all conflict. In Isaiah 2:4, we read, "They will beat their swords into plowshares and their spears into pruning hooks. Nation will not take up sword against nation, nor will they train for war anymore." This prophetic imagery underscores the divine desire for peace, a peace that transcends mere absence of conflict and encompasses reconciliation and restorative justice. In our earthly realm, achieving this peace requires active peacemaking.
In heaven, there is no exploitation or destruction of the environment. Every part of creation exists in a symbiotic relationship, reflecting the Creator's intricate and loving design. On earth, we are called to mirror this divine ecology by caring for our planet and all its inhabitants.
In Australia, we love a sunburnt country, however we need to care for our Aboriginal First Nation Australians that have had a unique relationship with our land for over 50,000 years and was forcibly taken from them by colonialism. They suffered isolation and experienced the worst aspects of urbanisation. We need to work together with our First Nations people around the world. Here in Australia we have a wonderful outback of red soil, Uluru, kangaroos, the Great Barrier Reef these are all things created by God that we need to take care of respect their spirituality and their connection to our First Nations people.
MCC is about caring, a spiritual connection feeling included, equality, a spiritual home for all where everyone feels included and safe where we all live in harmony just like in our Statement of Faith.
| |
Donate Now to the MCC Disaster Relief Fund for those affected by Hurricane Helene & Milton
The recent Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton caused widespread damage and destruction. A number of families and communities have been affected, including some MCC churches in Florida, North Carolina, and other areas in the southeast of the United States.
We have been notified that disaster relief funds will be needed in both Florida and North Carolina and that we will be working to get these requests funded as soon as possible.
The MCC Disaster Relief Fund is an appeal which aims to support MCC churches affected by the recent hurricane, and any funds not used can be retained for future needs related to disaster relief.
Your generous donation to the MCC Disaster Relief Fund will provide critical support to those affected, helping them rebuild their lives and recover from this disaster.
Donate (paypal.com)
| |
|
Dear MCCers:
So many of you are reaching out after Hurricane Helene's & Hurricane Milton's destruction that has impacted such a large geographic area, many without warning that such devastation was imminent. We launched an appeal for donations to the disaster relief fund, which provides an opportunity for churches to seek assistance for their own repairs, as well as providing additional means to support congregants.
Several of you have asked what the specific needs are so that you and your local congregations may do more. We have not been able to communicate with all churches as the ongoing local conditions impede internet and cell service so this list may grow.
The need for support is both physical and spiritual in nature with basic needs being our first priority. In order to help restore the wellbeing of those directly impacted, our response will need to be immediate as well as sustained. One hundred percent of disaster relief donations are in a restricted fund and can only be used for for disaster relief efforts.
What we know right now is this:
-
King of Peace MCC in St. Petersburg, Florida - Rev. Ray Simms -we have a number of people that were impacted seriously because they lived on the water in condos and some were on the ground floor. Three of our people lived in the same building and they think the building is condemned at this point. Other than that anybody else only had minor damage. There was no injury and certainly no loss of life.
-
MCC of Our Redeemer in Augusta, Georgia - Rev. Dr. Marc Trimm -still widespread power outages; minimal damage to church; most congregants need food; two grocery stores have reopened for non-perishables; a gas depot has been set up for fuel and while these two steps are staving panic, it is perilous.
-
Mountain Spirit MCC in Asheville, North Carolina - Rev. Pressley Sutherland - all congregants have been accounted for! There is still widespread power outages, complete losses of homes, food, lack of communication; widespread destruction - it is perilous.
-
Trinity MCC in Gainesville, Florida - Rev. Catherine Dearlove - fairly widespread power outages, including Pastor, though she and animals are safe. Lots of limbs down on church property. Still assessing needs.
-
Church of the Trinity MCC in Sarasota, Florida - Rev. Elder Lillie Brock - We have a few church members who had flooding issues but all in all, I think we fared well.
-
SunCoast MCC in Venice, Florida - Rev. Elder Dr. Nancy Wilson - no damage to church property and no loss of power. Some congregants experienced flooding, several without a safe place to stay, one has lost everything.
-
Please keep our siblings in Knoxville, Tennessee in prayer as the flood waters will cause their water levels to rise and while MCC Knoxville and congregants are okay now, we send prayers that they remain so.
| |
|
Donate Now to MCC Disaster Relief Fund
The MCC Disaster Relief Fund is an appeal which aims to support MCC churches affected by the recent hurricanes, and any funds not used can be retained for future needs related to disaster relief.
Your generous donation to the MCC Disaster Relief Fund will provide critical support to those affected, helping them rebuild their lives and recover from this disaster.
Donate Now
How To Apply - MCC Disaster Relief Fund
If your church or community is experiencing hardship because of Hurricane Helene, your church can apply for assistance by writing a letter (or an email if a letter is impossible at this time) to the Universal Fellowship of Metropolitan Community Churches. The church must be in a declared disaster zone and have suffered effects at the church proper or have an isolated disaster/emergency which can be documented.
In the letter, please include the following:
- Description of the situation your church is experiencing.
- Goals/Purpose for the use of these funds
- Budget for the use of these funds
- Projected impact of these funds (the difference these funds will make to the church and your community)
The letter should come from either the Pastor, Vice Moderator, or the Board of Directors.
Examples of the use of these funds could be:
- Payment of your insurance deductible relating to a property insurance claim caused by Hurricane Helene
- Repairs to your church building
- Assistance for your church’s Benevolence Fund due to the increased demand for your church’s Food Pantry program
- Distribution of water in your community
Initially, application requests may be for amounts up to $1,000 (USD). Additional funding might be possible as additional funds come in.
Send your letter to [SLT@MCCchurch.net].
If you receive MCC Disaster Relief funds, the reporting requirements are:
- Final accounting of how the funds were used.
- Description of the outcomes and impact of the funds
- Photos and personal stories are encouraged.
Email Application
| |
|
REGISTRATION FOR
GENERAL CONFERENCE TRANSFORMATIONAL WEEKEND IS OPEN!
| |
JOIN US AS WE CREATE OASIS!
Come . . . and I will give you rest.
Matthew 11:28
Reunion | Refreshment | Revival
3-6 JULY 2025
Scottsdale, AZ. USA
Don't miss the Early Bird Registration rates!
Early Bird Rate available until 31 December 2024.
| |
Rev. Elder Cecilia Eggleston's invitation to all of us to join her in Scottsdale, AZ, USA for 2025 General Conference. | |
|
|
Registration for the Transformational Weekend
03-06 July, 2025
"Early Bird" rates are available until
31 December 2024.
After that deadline, registration will increase.
Early Bird Onsite Rate: $325 USD
Early Bird Online Rate: $200 USD*
Regular Onsite Rate:$400 USD
Regular Online Rate: $225 USD*
Onsite Individual Day Attendance Rate: $200 USD per day
*Online experience will include General Sessions, pre-identified Programming Events, Workshops, and Worship Services. Additional connections to both those onsite and online will be made using the Whova app. We will not be hosting a 24-hour all-access conference like in 2022.
Use the link below to register for the Transformational Weekend.
| |
|
Our host hotel is an amazing, accessible resort. It is beautiful with incredible views of Camelback Mountain, two refreshing outdoor pools, large suite style sleeping rooms, tennis and pickle ball courts, large conference center, onsite restaurant and bar, and beautiful landscaping.
We searched to find not only an accessible hotel for physical accommodations, but also a financially accessible hotel. The Embassy Suites Scottsdale Resort is offering us an amazing rate of $119USD/night (plus taxes and fees) and includes free made to order breakfast, daily cocktail hour, and a complimentary shuttle to hundreds of local shops, restaurants, and activities.
Every suite has a living room (with a pull-out couch), and kitchenette which easily accommodates multiple parties to maximize savings.
| |
|
Come early or stay a few days after the Transformational Weekend and take in the history and culture of Scottsdale, AZ.
A few top places to visit:
| |
Want to help support someone attending conference? When registering there will be an option to give to the Go Global Fund. You may also donate directly by clicking the button below. A donation to the Go Global Fund will help subsidize other registration rates making it more affordable for others to attend General Conference, to provide online access to those outside the USA or to support Watch Parties in locations other than in the USA.
Donate Directly to the Go Global Fund
| |
Transformational Weekend Schedule
We are excited to announce an overview schedule for the Transformational Weekend!
Thursday, July 3, 2025
Reunion
- Afternoon: Check-in and Welcome Reception
- Evening: Opening Worship & Social Time
Friday, July 4, 2025
Reflection
- Morning: Morning Worship Celebration
- Afternoon: Plenary, Small Groups, and Free Time
- Evening: Reception & Social Time
Saturday, July 5, 2025
Refreshment
- Morning: Worship and Plenary
- Afternoon: Small Groups and Free Time
- Evening: Dinner Church Style Worship (included in your registration)
Sunday, July 6, 2025
Revival
- Morning: Closing Worship with Installation of the Moderator, blessing over the incoming Governing Board, current and outgoing Council of Elders.
- Afternoon: Optional Excursions
| |
|
Engaging Programming
We are excited that a main feature of our Transformational Weekend will be opening ourselves and each other into the possibilities of what it means to be community today -- what it means to be church in 2025. To help us steer the conversation, we are inviting the Rev. Dr. Claudio Carvalhaes to join us in Scottsdale. You might remember him from our online conference in 2022.
To stay up-to-date on all the planning and relevant information visit the conference website at
https://generalconference.mccchurch.org/
If you have any questions, ideas, or comments, start a conversation with us: conferences@MCCchurch.net.
We look forward to connecting with you during our Global General Conference 2025!
GC Sponsorship Opportunities
Interested in how you can support General Conference by becoming a sponsor? Use the link below to learn more about sponsorship opportunities.
GC 2025 Sponsorship Information
Click Here to Register for the Transformational Weekend
| |
|
Engaging Programming
Reunion | Refreshment | Revival
We are excited to have Rev. Dr. Claudio Carvalhaes join us for the Transformational Weekend as our keynote speaker aiding us as we open ourselves and each other into the possibilities of what it means to be church today.
Look for more speakers and events to be announced in coming emails!
| |
|
General Conference Business Meeting
Registration for the Business Meeting will open in January 2025!
The Business Forum will be held on 31st May 2025 and the Business Meeting will be held online on 7th June 2025.
Watch for more information about the Discussion Circles being hosted prior to the Business Meeting.
There will be no cost to register for the Business Meeting.
| |
|
Stay Informed
To stay up-to-date on all the planning and relevant information visit the conference website at https://generalconference.mccchurch.org/
If you have any questions, ideas, or comments, start a conversation with us: conferences@MCCchurch.net.
We look forward to connecting with you during our Global General Conference 2025!
| |
Join us before and after worship for a time of Hospitality in the church courtyard. Martin Miny is heading a team of people to get coffee, juice, and pastries ready each Sunday. Volunteers are always welcome! | |
Monkey Pox Vaccine Available | |
Change In Covid-19 Protocols | |
As we continue to cope with Covid-19, we are changing our protocols. The new protocols are in line with the rest of LA County. Until further notice, here are our guidelines:
1. We will no longer require vaccinations and boosters for church attendance, though we highly encourage them.
2. We will make wearing masks optional. Please feel free to continue wearing masks as you feel comfortable.
3. We ask people that have symptoms of (or tested positive for) Covid, flu, monkeypox, or any other easily communicable disease to please refrain from attending until they are well.
As we have from the very beginning of the pandemic, we will continue to keep in line with the advice of the LA County Public Health Department. Thank you so much for your patience as we navigate new guidelines.
| |
|
Thank you to all who have given so generously through our online giving portal. Our church cannot function without your generosity!! Feel free to continue giving through our website (on PushPay) or simply sending a check in the mail (4607 Prospect Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90027). Again, thank you.
Grand Total For Week Ending: 11-10-2024: $8,887.00
Tithing: $4,203.00
Facility Rental: $1,694.00
Hoodies: $640.00
Roofing Challenge: $2,050.00
| |
Rev. Keith Mozingo (Moderator)
| |
Dean Coffey (Vice Moderator) | |
|
Ed Shaughnessy (Treasurer) | |
Ina Serene - Trans* Unity | |
Children's Hospital has so graciously volunteered up to 10 spaces for us to park. It is a small lot off Sunset Blvd., just beyond the Metro Station entrance. | | | | |
