LENT AND EASTER 2013
Lent is a time to prepare for Easter. United Methodists begin Lent on Ash Wednesday (this year on February 13) and continue celebrating Lent until Easter (March 31). We view Lent as a way to slow down and focus on God, so many Methodists will give up foods or activities during this time. The purpose of giving something up is to find more time to focus on God.
Feb. 13 ASH WEDNESDAY
“Which is it deny or take up for Lent? – Luke 9:21-27
Ash Wednesday begins Lent for us. Lent is a time to sacrifice as Jesus was willing to sacrifice. Yet, you hear some people say “I’m giving up ________ for Lent. (You fill in the blank) Others say, “I’m taking up ________ or adding this to my schedule during Lent. (You fill in the blank) So which is it denying self or taking up additional things for Lent? Let’s find out on Wednesday.
Feb. 17 – Is the Bible Relevant for Us Today? – 2 Timothy 3:16-17
The Bible was written so long ago. How can it be useful for us? It speaks to another time and different issues! Or does it? The Bible speaks to each generation and each age. Let’s see the relevancy of the Bible for us in 2013.
Feb. 24 – Are issues black and white or only gray? –
Is there an answer to the issues we face in the world today? If you look at our congress and society it seems each charts out its answer and that’s it. Or we simply say there isn’t an answer but it’s a gray area and its up to each to decide. Does the Bible teach an objective truth and if so what difference does it make? Let’s look at that this Sunday and the issues we as a society face.
Mar. 3 – Is Jesus the only way to salvation? John 14:1-6
Mar. 10 – Does it make any difference if I pray? –
Prayer is the thing everyone always talks about doing, but does it really make any difference? Isn’t God going to do what God is going to do regardless? Isn’t it a waste of my time? The Bible says, “You have not because you ask not.” Hmmmmm does that mean if we don’t pray we can lose out? Let’s see how to pray and what it does on Sunday.
Mar. 17 – There is only ONE God and he just has different names RIGHT?
The Bible says there is ONE God. But the God’s people talk about and believe in are so different. One is involved in everything. One never does anything but create what is. One only judges. Another only loves. Are they all the same and it doesn’t matter what we believe as long as we believe in God! Let’s see what the ONE and ONLY God is like and you can decide this Sunday.
Mar. 24 – Palm Sunday – Why did Jesus have to die?
Jesus was a good man. He was compassionate and caring. He helped the poor and needy. He should have continued to live as our example but they killed him! Jesus died! Why did it have to happen? What difference does it make for me? Let’s talk about the cross and death this Sunday.
Mar. 31 – EASTER SUNDAY – Why did Jesus have to be raised from the dead?
Jesus story is acceptable until you begin to talk about his resurrection. Surely this isn’t true. The dead are made alive and a tomb is empty! How could it be? Yet, it is necessary! It is the reason we are here! Let’s see if we can discover what that means for the world this Easter and what we have to share because of it.
e end- less brake lights, leaving you “stuck” and backed up? Then join us as we explore ways to avoid the delays and move intentionally into God’s expressway. Get going by knowing and showing there is a better way!
This Sunday, February 10th, is Scouting Ministries Sunday!
The Book Lovers Group will meet on Sunday, February 10, at 7:00 pm in the home of Jane Allingham.
teers and potential servants for our 9:30 Common Ground worship service. If you are currently a volunteer in any capacity, or are considering joining our great group, please plan to attend this brunch, which will start at 10:30 am.
Beginning on Thursday February 21st, we will be meeting for dinner and discussion during the period of Lent. It was a huge success last year and we hope to continue this time of fellowship and learning, in addition to great food, for the duration of Lent. We will be discussing the sermon from the week prior, as a table group, while enjoying home cooked dinners.
Do our military service members and veterans hold a special place in your heart?
We have wonderful news to share – the Pender UMC Visitation Ministry (aka Smiles on Wheels) is up and running! It is a blessing to have their services and we are looking to you, our church community, to let us know of folks who might enjoy a visit from our volunteers. The group of women have been trained by Chris Hanak, and have been busy since the fall bringing smiles and Christ to those who are not able to come to church on a regular basis.
CHILD PROTECTION POLICY ACKNOWLEDGEMENT FORMS FOR 2013 need to be signed by all those working with children.
ance. These 8-page booklets offer spiritual encouragement, help and hope.
News and Views 