Asbury First Monday Reader – Stories and Reflections on the life of Asbury First

ASBURY FIRST MONDAY READER | FEBRUARY 3, 2025

CONTENTS: THE FALSE GOD OF NATIONALISM | ARSENIC AND OLD LACE

In July 1953, Atlanta's WERD, the first black-owned radio station in the United States, invited the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. to offer radio messages on three consecutive Sundays. The series was titled "False Gods We Worship" and, considering it was written and delivered almost 75 years ago, its prescience is both moving and startling. Below are excerpts from the second message titled "The False God of Nationalism." May King's call to faithfulness in response to subversive idolatry inspire us today.

Find the full text of all three messages by clicking here

from "The False God of Nationalism":

“We are all familiar with the creed of this new religion. It affirms that each nation is an absolute sovereign unit acknowledging no control save its own independent will…This new religion has its familiar prophets and preachers. In Germany it was preached by Hitler…And in America it is being preached by…the advocators of white supremacy, and the America first movements. Strangely enough all of these nationalistic preachers have an amazing amount of homiletical skill, so much so that the number of their converts has risen to astronomical proportions.

The preachers of this new religion are so convinced of its supremacy that they are determined to persecute anyone who does not accept its tenets. And so today many sincere lovers of democracy and believers of the Christian principle are being scorned and persecuted because they will not worship the god of nationalism. We live in an age when it is almost heresy to affirm the brotherhood of man.

Nationalism must give way to internationalism. This does not mean that we must not love our native lands. No other nation can mean to us what our nation means…it is not the total concept of nationalism that I am condemning; it is nationalism perverted into chauvinism and isolationism that I am condemning. One cannot worship this false god of nationalism and the God of Christianity at the same time. The two are incompatible…We must choose whom we will serve.”

ASBURY FIRST COMMUNITY THEATRE PRESENTS

ARSENIC & OLD LACE

This coming weekend, step back in time and join us for a night of laughter, intrigue, and delightful performances at Arsenic & Old Lace, a dinner theatre production presented by our very own Asbury First Community Theatre. The show promises to be an unforgettable experience, as it features a talented ensemble cast of seasoned professionals alongside some exciting first-timers. With half of the cast members being over 70 years old, you’ll witness a stunning range of theatrical skill and charm that only

years of experience can bring. It’s a heartwarming reminder that the love for theatre knows no age limits!

This production of Arsenic & Old Lace is more than just a performance; it’s a labor of love from everyone involved. The set itself is a testament to the dedication and care that went into this show. Members of the cast have donated cherished family heirlooms, including fine china, silver, hand-tatted lace, family portraits, and even a grandfather clock to bring the house to life. Every detail has been thoughtfully included to create a home that feels hundreds of years old, transporting you into a world where time seems to stand still.

To achieve an authentic atmosphere, the set has been painstakingly designed and built with love. Every inch of the house is crafted with history in mind, from the hand-painted wallpaper stenciled foot-by-foot to the warm, lived-in feel of the furniture and decor. It’s not just a set; it’s a lovingly created piece of history that invites you to experience the show in the most immersive way possible.

Whether you're a long-time theatre lover or experiencing the magic of dinner theatre for the first time, Arsenic & Old Lace promises an unforgettable night filled with laughter, mystery, and plenty of surprises. Don’t miss out—grab your tickets today and be part of this special event that celebrates community, creativity, and the joy of theatre!

Asbury First United Methodist Church

1050 East Avenue, Rochester NY, 14607

(585) 271-1050