May 29, 2025 | Weekly Newsletter

There’s a particular kind of beauty in a final moment shared–not as an ending, but as a turning toward what’s next. Over these past few years at Hennepin, I have witnessed the Spirit moving in ways both quiet and bold. In justice-seeking conversations over coffee, in poetry shared on Facebook Live, in the sound of the organ lifting our prayers, and in the quiet strength of people showing up for each other again and again. This has been sacred ground.

As I prepare to step into a new chapter, I carry with me the imprint of this community’s faithfulness. Your hunger for truth, your commitment to welcome, and your openness to the surprising movement of the Holy Spirit. You’ve taught me what it means to lead with heart and to trust that the Spirit shows up when we make space for her.

My last Sunday in worship will be June 1, and I would love nothing more than to share one final service and communion together. We will gather, as we have so many times, to break bread, to remember who we are, and to bless each other for the road ahead.



Come, not to say goodbye, but to mark the grace that meets us in transition and sends us onward, together in faith.

In gratitude for you all,

Pastor Laura

Pastor Laura's Farewell Reception

Sunday, June 1 | 11am

Please join us to honor Pastor Laura Hannah on her final Sunday with us! During worship, there will be time to honor and celebrate her. Following the service, there will be ice cream!

On Sundays 5/18-6/1, we will have a basket in Carlson Hall after the worship service to drop off cards for Pastor Laura. We will also have notecards available to write words of gratitude, or a memory you would like to share with her. Read More

The Sunday Snack is Here!

Begins Sunday, June 1

While brunch takes a hiatus for the summer (giving the volunteers a break), starting Sunday, June 1 we will be serving the Sunday Snack after worship!

What’s the Sunday Snack? It’s a chance for people to get together over a light meal of a sandwich, some fruit, coffee, and water. There may even be home-baked treats! Join us in Koinonia Hall on the lower level for fellowship, conversation, and connection throughout the summer!

Bells of the Lakes Spring Concert

Saturday, June 7 | 7-9pm

Please join us as we celebrate the final concert this spring! Hennepin Chime will also be playing a few pieces. The concert will take place in Hennepin's beautiful Art Gallery as part of the Hennepin Music Series.

Bells of the Lakes, founded in 1996, is a Twin Cities community handbell ensemble. Read More

Congregational Meeting

Sunday, June 8 | After Worship

On June 8th we'll gather following worship for a chance to:

• Hear about our Strategic Ministry Plan

• Approve our delegates for Annual Conference

• Affirm the membership of the Lay Endowment Fund board

We will gather after worship and adjourn at noon! Bring yourself and your excitement for Hennepin Avenue UMC's future. Read More

Loring Park Neighborhood Party

Wednesdays, June 11 & August 13 | 5-7pm

Join us at the Hennepin Avenue UMC parking lot for two evenings of community celebration. These events aim to bring people of all ages together, fostering connections within the Loring Park community.

Enjoy live music, a variety of food trucks, a bounce house, face painting, a lemonade and popcorn stand, yard games, an aisle of local artist vendors, and more! Meet and greet with local political leaders, discuss community issues, and engage with your neighbors. Read More

This Week in Hennepin History

Written by Phil Wala

In 1880, the Methodist Episcopal Church didn’t yet ordain women, so Anna Shaw went to another branch of the Methodist Church to be ordained. On June 2, 1901, Rev. Shaw preached at Hennepin Avenue M.E. Church. 

Learn More About Anna Shaw and Read More Hennepin History

What We Learned Last Sunday

Learning & Fun Sunday: Movie Time!

We celebrated the end of the program year by watching a video and enjoying popcorn!

Coming Up this Sunday

June 1: Communion & Service Sunday

Please check in at the check in table and then come straight to the Education Wing. We are planting tomatoes and strawberries in the community garden, planting the beans in the Three Sisters garden, and creating something special for Pastor Laura’s last day with us.

To submit event announcements to be published on the public events calendar, please send all the details to communications@haumc.org.

To plan your event, including reserving rooms, email scheduling@haumc.org.

For story ideas or editorial content, you can email commsdirector@haumc.org. All content is subject to the discretion of the editorial team.

Hennepin Avenue United Methodist Church www.haumc.org