Richmond First United Methodist News and Events

 

Pastor’s Perspective

Here is Jean Reynolds’ message from last Sunday.

“A Report from People in the Trenches for Human Rights”

 

I just returned – my flight got in at midnight last night – from the International People’s Tribunal 2015 held in Washington D.C. July 16-18. The charges were against Philippines President Benigno Simeon Aquino III and the U.S. government as represented by President Barack Obama. The coalition of conveners sought to spotlight repeated violations of international law committed against the Filipino people. An international jury of seven human rights specialists, including the Rev. Michael Yoshii of Buena Vista UMC in Alameda, heard testimony from thirty-six witnesses over the course of two days; they presented the verdict yesterday, July 18. The first day was all testimony from victims of Human Rights abuses, and was pretty intense for me as a listener. The second day, witnesses told about economic and environmental violence they have experienced, and the systems and policies of the government that keep so many people in poverty. Most witnesses came to the US to testify in person; some used Skype as the next-best method. A few witnesses were pre-recorded.

I’ll share only a few of the stories to give you an idea of the nature of the complaints. First, you have to know that the No. 1 export of the Philippines is labor. Twelve percent of its 100 million population lives abroad, and the economy is hugely supported by the wages they send back to their families. People often work basically as a slave: their employer seizes their passport, local labor laws offer them no protection. At the very least, conditions are never as good as they are painted by the agencies which profit. I know a few of you are teachers. One of the witnesses was a teacher. She saw an ad asking teachers to teach in the U.S. and inquired at the agency. She applied for the position, and was told it would take about 3 months. She was asked to pay a large sum so she borrowed money. Time passed. Every time she checked in with the agent, he wanted another payment, and had an excuse for the delay. She accrued debts to financial institutions and friends as she continued to hope and believe she could get a better job. At least 45 other teachers were in the same process. During this time, the agency lost its license, but no one told the clients or stopped the agent from taking more money from victims. The agent was finally arrested, but the owner of the agency was not prosecuted. Only clients who did not file charges against the agency got financial restitution. The witness got no money back.

We heard from retired United Methodist Bishop Solito Toquero. He marched on the front line of the People’s State of the Nation Address (SONA) protest and said that he believes Jesus would be right there too, as an advocate with the people. SONA is the day the President of the Philippines gives his annual report. People come together on the streets in droves that day to peacefully protest the actual state of the nation. I marched at the protest in 2013. Bishop Toquero and his contingent had a written list of complaints to deliver to President Aquino. They were beaten by police forces. Seminary students who shielded the bishop sought medical care after the blows they took. Bishop Toquero was a guest at our Annual Conference dinner this year. He came to the U.S. to testify at the Tribunal, but arrived early enough to speak in various places beforehand. After he flew here in June, men in uniform came to his home at breakfast time and harassed his son Mervin and daughter-in-law. Mervin works for National Council of Churches of the Philippines and coordinates our CA-NV Philippine Solidarity Task Force visits. His wife is a women’s labor rights advocate. They feel they are being threatened because of the ways they have stood up for people’s rights.

A nurse employed at the largest spinal injury hospital in SE Asia shared that the government plans to restructure healthcare by privatizing all state-owned hospitals. His hospital is the first slated for the process. If its ownership changes, only 70 beds will be available to poor and uninsured patients although few people have insurance. Nurses will lose their government jobs. If the new hospital management hires them, they will lose benefits and won’t be guaranteed full time work. If they remain government employees, they will have to move to some far-flung area where the govt. still manages a hospital. He and his coworkers oppose the privatization and are fighting it.

You have heard me say that when I teach Bible stories, I no longer use the phrase “In those days…” since many of the social ills found in the Bible still exist all around us. It is the reason the Bible is still relevant. When I hear about the struggles of the Filipino people, I have stopped saying, “It only happens in the Philippines…” It is not a stretch to say variations of these problems exist in the U.S. and in many other countries. Some of the problems stem from U.S. imperialism and our government’s far-reaching military involvement in the world. Many of our policies protect the rights of corporations to make profit above the rights of the people.

We heard gut-wrenching stories on Thursday. That night, I had a troubling dream. [It made me think of Jack Elle, a former member here, who especially liked Ecclesiastes and the scripture from Acts 2:17 “your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams.” Jack identified with the old men, as do I.] I dreamt that something terrible happened to my daughter Bethany. The confusing part of the dream was that I did not feel anything after it happened. I did not care. My emotions were cold. I woke up and puzzled over how it could happen – even in a dream – for me to not have deep feelings of sorrow after what befell her. To me it meant that my Filipino friends are as precious to me as my family. If they are not able to live in safety and dignity, it affects me as much as if they are my daughters and sons. I cannot ignore their plight anymore than I can stop loving and caring for my family.

So where is the hope? All good stories include hope. For me, I am heartened to know that the main “ask” is for me to simply hear the testimony and retell it. The Filipinos feel like that is an important way to make change. If people know the truth, it can affect how they vote, the questions they ask their legislators, and the way they spend their money. We met Saturday morning hosted at the United Methodist building. It was my first time to visit there. In my small group, we talked about actions to take. One woman told about how her church donated to a legal fund for political prisoners in the Philippines. The bail to release a prisoner is only about $75. Canadians said they are in process to change Canadian mining laws since Canadian-based mining companies are known for unscrupulous practices in the Philippines and elsewhere. Several witnesses previously held as political prisoners expressed how much it meant to get personal letters through Amnesty International that told them they had not been forgotten. If we believe we can create a more just world, if we pay attention, tell the stories, and stand together with those who suffer, the world is already a better place.

I am thankful to be here with all of you and to know the ways we reach out together to be a place where God dwells, in keeping with the words of today’s scripture. (Ephesians 2:11-22) May we continue to work in the world together to be a dwelling place for God.

Note: Transcripts and video from the IPT are available online at http://internationalpeoplestribunal.org

 

 

 

Joys and Concerns

Help Needed! Linda Pereira’s mother, Lorraine, has been in rehab for a broken arm and will need 24 hour a day attendant care starting next week. Pat Dornan has found someone for the weekends but needs someone M-F to live-in (separate room) and to help Lorraine with activities of daily living, meal prep etc. Can pay a max of $150 per 24 hour day. Contact Pat Dornan at 510 237 3063 or doornob22000@yahoo.com if you can help or know of someone else who may be available.

Doris Swope celebrated her birthday this week. Her children and grandchildren have gathered from far and wide to celebrate with her.

Fran Smith was also honored by family on her birthday!

Please keep Katherine Parker, our missionary, and the people of Nepal in your prayers.

Megan Timberlake’s ex-husband, Ernest R. Style III, died June 3. Sympathy cards can be sent to Megan at 293 Curry St., Richmond, CA 94801.

Deby McFadyen is requesting prayers for three young friends who are battling cancer. Please remember Sarah Talkington, Carolyn Thomas and Jimmy Lowe in your prayers.

 

Sandra Kokoruda (Fran Smith’s daughter) update: Sandra thanks everyone for their prayers and concerns. Fran reports that Sandra is more animated and cheerful. She is having chemotherapy every two weeks and it should be completed the end of August. Both Fran and Sandra ask that prayers continue.

 

 

Pat Dornan and Linda Pereira continue to need your prayers of support. Update: Hospice services have started. Pat says that Linda is more alert and has been able to be up in the wheel chair for short periods of time. Lorraine, Linda’s mother, fell last week and had surgery on a broken arm and elbow. She is currently in a Skilled Nursing Facility for rehab so that she can return home. As you can imagine, Pat is stressed with all the care demands. Pat was able to transfer Linda to the car and take her to visit her mother. It was a very touching visit.  Kudos to Pat for always doing the best she can.

 

Robbie Robinson  would appreciate your prayers.

 

Helen Wysham welcomes your prayers for healing as she undergoes chemotherapy.

 

Bobby and Pamella Hall would like to be remembered in prayer as they go through some difficult personal times.

 

 

News

News from Camp Liberty in Iraq: Since July 13th the Iraqi government has stopped supplies from entering Camp Liberty. They have prevented supplies of food, fuel and septic tank trucks from entering the compound. The lack of fuel means that the generators can not function so there is no electricity, no sewage system, no air conditioners with the temperature reaching 120 degrees. The United States Committee for Camp Ashraf is asking our Secretary of State, John Kerry, to intervene as well as the United Nations. Please remember these people in your prayers and that actions are taken to reverse this situation.

This week’s Cal/Nev Instant Connection News has an interesting article about a gay Methodist pastor in Michigan being fired because he is gay. He is a young, dynamic pastor who has in the 2 years he has been at the church more than quadrupled church attendance and has started other ministries in the community. This is a heartrending example of the ways the Methodist Church’s stance on homosexuality affects many lives. comm.calnev@brtapp.com.

Katherine Parker, missionary in Nepal: Katherine reports that the emphasis now will be on long-term recovery efforts in Dhang province. Katherine will continue to work with WASH, nutrition and psycho-social support. Non-earthquake work is resuming and Katherine will soon be traveling to Rukum and Rupandehi for the baseline survey of their community health program focusing on maternal and child health.

 

 

Generosity

The United Methodist Church Market Place has revamped their online site and made it more user friendly. When you sign up to be a user you scroll down to find our church and after that every time you go through this site to shop at stores on line a percentage of your bill will be donated to our church. umcmarket.org.

New Public Address System: Donations are coming in to support our new system. Donations are $45 for a whole piano key which you can color and sign and donations of any amount are welcome. Karen Merkle, who died early in June left a Memorial Donation of $500 to our church. The Memorial Committee has donated the money to our new sound system. Karen would be pleased since music was such a large part of her life. See the display of piano keys and further information at the desk in the back in Friendship Hall.

If you would like to donate for relief for the people of Nepal, go to umcor.org the Advance.

 

Don’t forget that donations for Imagine No Malaria are always welcome.

Please add donations to the church for Katherine Parker so that we can continue to sponsor her good work. It costs $250 per year to be sponsors.

 

 

Events

New Membership Class starting this Sunday, June 28 at 10 am in Friendship Hall as part of the Adult Sunday School. Please let Pastor Dan know if you are interested in joining our congregation.

Saturday, July 25, 1:30 pm, Finance Committee Meeting at Matthew and Jennifer Foster’s home; 1052 Hawthorne Dr., Rodeo

 

The Methodist Federation for Social Action (MFSA) is meeting in San Antonio, Texas in conjunction with the Reconciling Ministries Network. Gather at the River, Thursday, August 6 to Sunday, August 9. The conference will be working on issues of justice throughout the church and resolutions they would like to see presented at the General Conference in 2016. Register at http://www.gather2015.org/.

Vacation Bible School will be the week of August 10 thru 14. Contact Jean Reynolds if you would like to help at sweetheart05@mac.com. this is always a fun event and much looked forward to by the children and the helpers.

Saturday, September 26, 4-7 pm, 7th Annual Jean Eakle Art Auction and Gala: Tax deductible Donations needed: Arts, crafts, jewelry, pottery, photography, cash or gift certificates for auction and door prizes. Contact Diane, dianefrary@comcast.net or Debbie, debbenko160@aol.com. Donations can be dropped off any Sunday morning 10-11 am and 12-1 pm at First United Methodist Church, 201 Martina St., Point Richmond.

 

Please send submissions for FUMC News and Events to Barbara Haley, editor: bahcats@sbcglobal.net

Richmond First United Methodist News and Events

 

Pastor’s Perspective

 

Dear Friends,

I’ll be away July 8-22. Fran Smith will lead the Membership Class and the worship service on July 12. Jean Reynolds will lead on the 19th. Here are my notes from Sunday:

Faith Sharing – July 12, 2015

Fran Smith

 

Yesterday I went to MacDonalds for my iced carmel mocha.  As I pulled up to the drive-thru window I saw a sign that said “Proceed with Love.”  I was amazed that MacDonald’s would give such advice.  I wondered if MacDonalds accepts that God is Love.  If so, they could be telling everyone to Proceed with God.  Words to live by

 

My childhood was not typical of the 40’s and 50’s.  I attended 17 schools from Kindergarten through high school.  I was always the ‘new girl’ somewhere and was pretty much ‘unchurched.’  Occasionally I accompanied some girl friend to her church….pentecostal, morman, catholic and baptist.

 

I was unaware that I did not have a personal relationship with God or Jesus.  I did not know that “Jesus loved me.”   I learned about the birth of Jesus through Christmas Carols. In the 50’s  my values were shaped by what was going on around me – the music, fads, fashions,  – even attitudes about “queers”.  In my junior year of high school I was accepted into Rainbow Girls – and learned a creed that included the phrase…Give Service, Service so Deep that Self is Forgotten.   That lesson certainly stuck.

 

Fast forward – I had 4 children – in 3 ½ years – 2 boys and 2 girls – and knew that they were the most wonderful beings anyone could ever want.  In time I learned that 1 girl and 1 boy were born with cerebral palsy.  They were still wonderful.  But not everyone in the world saw them that way.  And not every service they needed was always forthcoming.  I want you to know that I was a fierce fighter for them when they needed services.  I was determined to get what was fair for them. In time I learned that for things to be fair for Cheryl and Mike, I had to work for system change…..and I did – special education, regular education, day programs, programs that respected their right to a full life.  I was very involved in the developmental disability world most of my adult life.

 

1964 I became a single mother – on my own to make a life for my family.   I was still not conscious of a personal relationship with God or Jesus, but was very aware of a “force” in the universe that was pulling me – sometimes pushing me – to create justice for children and adults with disabilities.  I moved to Pt Richmond – a warm, friendly, welcoming community.  I wanted my children to have a religious education.  There was a choice of 3 churches in the Point: Catholic, Baptist or Methodist.  I chose this church and was accepted by members.  The church became our beautiful extended family.  My children came to Sunday school.  Mid Dornan and Jack Elle were their Sunday school teachers. Edna Hathaway was director of children’s choir.  We had an almost a story book life.  John Wesley’s admonition to

“Do all the good you can, by all the means you can, in all the ways you can, in all the places you can, at all the times you can, to all the people you can, as ever you can” was a call to me.

 

Sometime during Michael’s high school years we realized he was gay.  The knowledge was like looking through a Kalaidescope  – a shift in the pieces created a different picture with the same shapes.  I very quickly had to reconsider my attitudes about queers – “those others.”  It was a powerful internal shift. To me he was still perfect, but not everyone in the world shared that view.

 

My children became adults. Jobs took me to Colorado, back to California, to Washington D.C. and finally back to California.  I reconnected with the United Methodist Women but did not return to church until 1995 after the death of my son.  There were many “new people.” Kristi and Russ,  Claudia LeGue were some of the new people.   Claudia invited me to a retreat at Pt Bonita with a group called Methodist Federation for Social Action – folks who had been engaged for many years in efforts to create social justice – especially for lesbians, gay, bi-sexual and transgendered people.  I learned that the Methodist Church had a phrase in the Book of Discipline – homosexuality is incompatible with Christian teaching  – and these folks were struggling to strike the phrase….not only in the Book of Discipline, but also out of the hearts and minds of all Methodists.  To me social justice is another way of saying “what’s fair“ and I could join this struggle.

 

I I learned about the United Methodist General Conference that meets every four years where Methodists from all parts of the world gather.  I learned about the many ways the church is organized into regional jurisdictions.   I learned about Bishops.  I learned about charges brought against pastors who knowingly accepted gay members.  I met folks who couldn’t be ordained as a pastor because of their “sexual orientation.”  I continued to “hang out” with the folks from MFSA….and met many others engaged in the quest for justice for all.

 

In July 2012, MFSA folks from Cal Nevada and Cal Pacific organized a gathering in San Diego for folks who shared the sense of injustice in a church that proclaims to have Open minds, Open hearts, Open doors.  The folks who attended that gathering came from other Groups – Parents Reconciling Network, Reconciling Ministries Network, MFSA, Peace and Justice – formed Action Networks around whatever passion they shared:  Biblical Obedience, Justice in the Philippines, Extravagant Hospitality and Congregational Inclusiveness, Immigration, Israel-Palestine, Beginning and End of Life, and the Worldwide Nature of the Church.  At the end of the gathering those of us who planned the event realized that the energy from 120 people was a force that shouldn’t be left to fizzle.

 

In November 2012, the planners of the San Diego event grappled with what to do next…what to call this group of passionate people committed to changing the church.  After just a few suggestions the name Western Methodist Justice Movement came together.  To keep the momentum going WMJM planned another gathering to immediately precede the meeting of the Western Jurisdictional Leadership Team.  Bishops from three of the conferences in the Western Jurisdiction met with us.  Bishop Grant Hagiya, of the Seattle Episcopal Area, urged everyone to take the authority to advance the Jurisdiction’s goals and commitments, rather than waiting passively for the institutional church to take the lead.  He reminded us that the mission of creating a radically hospitable Jesus centered Church that was committed to the advancement of justice belongs to all of us.

 

WMJM continues to attract those who want to join the social justice and advance our goals through action from the other conferences in the Western Jurisdiction: Alaska, Yellowstone, Rocky Mountain, Oregon-Idaho, Pacific South West, California Pacific and California Nevada.  Individuals from these conferences talk together monthly.  We planned resolutions that each would bring to our 2015 Annual Conference that could be forwarded to the 2016 General Conference to be held in Portland; all with the goal of changing the book of discipline.

 

Our Bishop, Warner Brown, is the president of the Council of Bishops.  He wants the Western District to extend Radical and Extravagant Hospitality to those who come from outside the Western Jurisdiction.  Our conference is diverse….much more so than others. The California Nevada United Methodist Conference includes members who are Caucasian, African American, Asian, Hispanic, Tongan, Hawaiian, and other South Sea Islanders.  At the Cal –Nev Annual Conference delegates to the 2016 General Conference were elected.  They will participate in the official business of the Church. They will be the only ones who will vote on the business of the CHURCH.  However, there will be many opportunities to volunteer during the General Conference.

 

A small group of MFSA members will travel to San Antonio to join the Love Your Neighbor Coalition at the Gather at the River event in August.  We will meet together to explore ways volunteers from other Western Jurisdiction conferences can assist the Oregon Idaho folks.

 

The Supreme Court decision about “gay marriage” came just after the California Nevada Annual Conference so it wasn’t celebrated during the session.   Pastor Dan read Bishop Brown’s letter regarding the decision during worship a couple of Sundays ago. I would like to close by reading a letter from Frank Wulf, on behalf of the Western Methodist Justice Movement.

Please see attachment for this letter.

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I am proud to be part of this justice movement.  It is my faith in action.  I finally realize that I do have a personal relationship with God and with Jesus.

 

I urge all of us to Proceed with Love.

 

 

Joys and Concerns

This beautiful prayer is from an article in Faith in Action from the General Board of Church and Society.

A Night Prayer of St Augustine

Watch, O Lord, with those who wake, or watch, or weep tonight, and give Your angels and saints charge over those who sleep.
Tend Your sick ones, O Lord Christ.
Rest Your weary ones.
Bless Your dying ones.
Soothe Your suffering ones.
Pity Your afflicted ones.
Shield Your joyous ones, and all for Your love’s sake.
Amen.

Please keep Katherine Parker, our missionary, and the people of Nepal in your prayers.

Here’s a message found on Facbook, written by Paul Jeffrey on 7/13.

Katherine stayed up late today in Kathmandu to spend an hour on Skype with a class on mission that I’m teaching at Claremont School of Theology. She impressed us with her insight and analysis, as well as her commitment to accompaniment as a model of mission. Thanks, Katherine, for your witness to us and for all that you are doing in Nepal.

Megan Timberlake’s ex-husband, Ernest R. Style III, died June 3. Sympathy cards can be sent to Megan at 293 Curry St., Richmond, CA 94801.

Deby McFadyen is requesting prayers for three young friends who are battling cancer. Please remember Sarah Talkington, Carolyn Thomas and Jimmy Lowe in your prayers.

 

Sandra Kokoruda (Fran Smith’s daughter) update: Sandra thanks everyone for their prayers and concerns. Fran reports that Sandra is more animated and cheerful. She is having chemotherapy every two weeks and it should be completed the end of August. Both Fran and Sandra ask that prayers continue.

 

 

Pat Dornan and Linda Pereira continue to need your prayers of support. Update: Hospice services have started. Pat says that Linda is more alert and has been able to be up in the wheel chair for short periods of time. Lorraine, Linda’s mother, fell last week and had surgery on a broken arm and elbow. She is currently in a Skilled Nursing Facility for rehab so that she can return home. As you can imagine, Pat is stressed with all the care demands. Pat was able to transfer Linda to the car and take her to visit her mother. It was a very touching visit.  Kudos to Pat for always doing the best she can.

 

Robbie Robinson  would appreciate your prayers.

 

Helen Wysham welcomes your prayers for healing as she undergoes chemotherapy.

 

Bobby and Pamella Hall would like to be remembered in prayer as they go through some difficult personal times.

 

Please keep the people of Camp Liberty in your prayers as chaos reigns in Iraq and near the camp.

 

News

Pastor Dan will be away for vacation and the Hymn Society Conference In New Orleans, July 8-22.

Katherine Parker, missionary in Nepal: Katherine reports that the emphasis now will be on long-term recovery efforts in Dhang province. Katherine will continue to work with WASH, nutrition and psycho-social support. Non-earthquake work is resuming and Katherine will soon be traveling to Rukum and Rupandehi for the baseline survey of their community health program focusing on maternal and child health.

A couple of our church family have housing needs:

Lara Choe is looking for a single Christian woman to share a house in Point Richmond.  Big bedroom, private bath, walk-in closet and bay view of three bridges within walking distance to downtown Point Richmond. Cost $12-1500/mo. Contact: larachoe@gmail.com.

Mim Drake & Kate Gebhart are looking for a new place to live because their condo is being sold. They would like to stay in the Point.   They have a sterling letter of recommendation from their current residence.  They do greyhound rescue and would have an occasional dog or two around but would spend most of the day at work, Bark Stix.  A yard would be nice but not necessary.   Please call 415.595.4006 or 510.235.2430

New Church Brochure:  The new brochure is here! Pick one up and share with your friends.

 

 

Generosity

New Public Address System: Donations are coming in to support our new system. Donations are $45 for a whole piano key which you can color and sign and donations of any amount are welcome. Karen Merkle, who died early in June left a Memorial Donation of $500 to our church. The Memorial Committee has donated the money to our new sound system. Karen would be pleased since music was such a large part of her life. See the display of piano keys and further information at the desk in the back in Friendship Hall.

If you would like to donate for relief for the people of Nepal, go to umcor.org the Advance.

 

Don’t forget that donations for Imagine No Malaria are always welcome.

Please add donations to the church for Katherine Parker so that we can continue to sponsor her good work. It costs $250 per year to be sponsors.

 

 

Events

New Membership Class starting this Sunday, June 28 at 10 am in Friendship Hall as part of the Adult Sunday School. Please let Pastor Dan know if you are interested in joining our congregation.

Saturday, July 25, 1:30 pm, Finance Committee Meeting at Matthew and Jennifer Foster’s home; 1052 Hawthorne Dr., Rodeo

 

The Methodist Federation for Social Action (MFSA) is meeting in San Antonio, Texas in conjunction with the Reconciling Ministries Network. Gather at the River, Thursday, August 6 to Sunday, August 9. The conference will be working on issues of justice throughout the church and resolutions they would like to see presented at the General Conference in 2016. Register at http://www.gather2015.org/.

Vacation Bible School will be the week of August 10 thru 14. Contact Jean Reynolds if you would like to help at sweetheart05@mac.com. this is always a fun event and much looked forward to by the children and the helpers.

Saturday, September 26, 4-7 pm, 7th Annual Jean Eakle Art Auction and Gala: Tax deductible Donations needed: Arts, crafts, jewelry, pottery, photography, cash or gift certificates for auction and door prizes. Contact Diane, dianefrary@comcast.net or Debbie, debbenko160@aol.com. Donations can be dropped off any Sunday morning 10-11 am and 12-1 pm at First United Methodist Church, 201 Martina St., Point Richmond.

 

Please send submissions for FUMC News and Events to Barbara Haley, editor: bahcats@sbcglobal.net

Events

New Membership Class starting this Sunday, June 28 at 10 am in Friendship Hall as part of the Adult Sunday School. Please let Pastor Dan know if you are interested in joining our congregation.

Saturday, July 25, 1:30 pm, Finance Committee Meeting at Matthew and Jennifer Foster’s home; 1052 Hawthorne Dr., Rodeo

 

The Methodist Federation for Social Action (MFSA) is meeting in San Antonio, Texas in conjunction with the Reconciling Ministries Network. Gather at the River, Thursday, August 6 to Sunday, August 9. The conference will be working on issues of justice throughout the church and resolutions they would like to see presented at the General Conference in 2016. Register at http://www.gather2015.org/.

Vacation Bible School will be the week of August 10 thru 14. Contact Jean Reynolds if you would like to help at sweetheart05@mac.com. this is always a fun event and much looked forward to by the children and the helpers.

Saturday, September 26, 4-7 pm, 7th Annual Jean Eakle Art Auction and Gala: Tax deductible Donations needed: Arts, crafts, jewelry, pottery, photography, cash or gift certificates for auction and door prizes. Contact Diane, dianefrary@comcast.net or Debbie, debbenko160@aol.com. Donations can be dropped off any Sunday morning 10-11 am and 12-1 pm at First United Methodist Church, 201 Martina St., Point Richmond.

 

Richmond First United Methodist News and Events

 

Pastor’s Perspective

 

Dear Friends,

I’ll be away July 8-22. Fran Smith will lead the Membership Class and the worship service on July 12. Jean Reynolds will lead on the 19th. Here are my notes from Sunday:

In His Own Country, Mark 6:1-13

Pastor Dan Damon, Richmond 1^st UMC, 7-5-15

 

Introduction

 

This week I polished up a hymn tune that I wrote way back in 1989 when I was serving the two point charge of Sutter and Meridian and going through the five-year process toward ordination as an elder in the United Methodist Church. I had a bad interview. When I was asked to talk about God’s judgment, I didn’t know what to say, so I stared at the floor for about a minute and then mumbled something incomprehensible. The pastor who asked the question served the large conservative United Methodist Church eight miles away in Yuba City.

 

After the interview he called me up and invited me to lunch. During lunch he told me, “I don’t expect you to agree with me, but I expect you to be able to talk to me.” I knew right away that this was a valuable lesson. The tune is named for Pastor John Sheppard. We’ll sing it later this year (my 21^st year in this appointment).

 

Retell the Scripture Story

 

After performing miracles on both shores and in the middle of the Sea of Galilee, Jesus returns to his hometown and goes to the synagogue, the meeting house. He teaches the hometown crowd and they take offense. “Is not this the carpenter’s son?”

 

Jesus couldn’t believe it. The text in Mark 6 says he wondered at their unbelief. He could do no mighty work there—in his hometown—save to lay hands on a few sick folk and heal them. Then he went around the villages teaching.

 

Not much of a day for the Savior of the world. He was hindered by the unbelief of the folks who knew him as a child—knew him as the carpenter’s son—and worst of all, they knew his sisters.

 

In the second part of the Gospel reading Jesus sends his followers out, two by two. They are prepared for rejection and for service. Jesus tells them to take nothing for their journey except a staff; no bread, no bag, no money in their belts; but to wear sandals and not to put on two tunics.

Sing refrain:

 

Well, I wouldn’t take nothin’ for my journey now,

Oo, I got to get to heaven somehow,

though Satan tempts and tries to turn me around.

He’s offered everything that’s got a name,

all the worldly wealth and earthly fame,

if I could, still I wouldn’t take nothin’ for my journey now.

 

(as sung by Montanan, Dave Bennett, at Sunshine Bible Academy, circa 1972)

 

Many congregations make a false distinction between mission and evangelism—between deeds and outreach in words—between bringing food to the victims of an earthquake, and sharing the gospel story. But as Christians we are called to do both of these. We do it with connection to God and to each other. We are not solitary evangelists, not solitary doers of good works in the world. Our work together, as in the time of Jesus, is unitary, encompassing both healing—mission—and proclamation—evangelism. We share our faith in every way as we care for body, mind, and spirit. We benefit from this, and those around us also benefit.

 

In this story we see that we are not held responsible for the response of others to our words and work, our ministries in the name of Love. We are only responsible for our own faithfulness to the task. With this assurance we can witness boldly and faithfully throughout our lives.

 

Application

 

I’d like to close with a hymn text written while I was driving through the San Joaquin Valley to Patterson Federated Church, Patterson, California for a Sunday service. I have been trying to find words to help us pray and work to stop human trafficking, modern day slavery. Later this year we will sing it with the tune SHEPPARD.

 

When human life is bought and sold

as we stand idly by,

the Savior we would have and hold

is left alone to die.

As lives are wasted in this way

creation turns to dust,

good soil becomes a miry clay,

and greed consumes our trust.

 

The love that blessed the earth with life

has set us free to choose

a path that leads to hurt and strife,

a license to abuse.

Until we change our wanton ways

the world is hurt by sin.

Unless we stop and free these slaves,

we crucify again.

 

When any life is bought and sold

in service to some greed,

when life is measured out in gold,

the church must intercede

in prayer that cries for something more

with strength and tenderness,

until we find love’s open door,

and lives of righteousness.

 

Dan Damon

Words and Music © 2015 Hope Publishing Company, Carol Stream, IL 60188. All rights reserved.

 

Let us be in prayer.

 

 

Joys and Concerns

This beautiful prayer is from an article in Faith in Action from the General Board of Church and Society.

A Night Prayer of St Augustine

Watch, O Lord, with those who wake, or watch, or weep tonight, and give Your angels and saints charge over those who sleep.
Tend Your sick ones, O Lord Christ.
Rest Your weary ones.
Bless Your dying ones.
Soothe Your suffering ones.
Pity Your afflicted ones.
Shield Your joyous ones, and all for Your love’s sake.
Amen.

Please keep Katherine Parker, our missionary, and the people of Nepal in your prayers.

Megan Timberlake is asking for prayers for her ex-husband, Ernest R. Style III, as he struggles with serious illness.

Deby McFadyen is requesting prayers for three young friends who are battling cancer. Please remember Sarah Talkington, Carolyn Thomas and Jimmy Lowe in your prayers.

 

Sandra Kokoruda (Fran Smith’s daughter) update: Sandra thanks everyone for their prayers and concerns. Fran reports that Sandra is more animated and cheerful. She is having chemotherapy every two weeks and it should be completed the end of August. Both Fran and Sandra ask that prayers continue.

 

 

Pat Dornan and Linda Pereira continue to need your prayers of support. Update: Hospice services have started. Pat says that Linda is more alert and has been able to be up in the wheel chair for short periods of time. Lorraine, Linda’s mother, fell last week and had surgery on a broken arm and elbow. She is currently in a Skilled Nursing Facility for rehab so that she can return home. As you can imagine, Pat is stressed with all the care demands. Pat was able to transfer Linda to the car and take her to visit her mother. It was a very touching visit.  Kudos to Pat for always doing the best she can.

 

Robbie Robinson  would appreciate your prayers.

 

Helen Wysham welcomes your prayers for healing as she undergoes chemotherapy.

 

Bobby and Pamella Hall would like to be remembered in prayer as they go through some difficult personal times.

 

Please keep the people of Camp Liberty in your prayers as chaos reigns in Iraq and near the camp.

 

News

Pastor Dan will be away for vacation and the Hymn Society Conference In New Orleans, July 8-22.

Fran Smith went to South Dakota to visit Sandra and Robert last week. She was there for Robert’s birthday which pleased him greatly. Fran says that Sandra has an extensive support system there between family members and the good managed care workers. Fran has now met all the workers involved in Sandra’s care and she is so pleased that she can have Sandra so well cared for. Sandra is moving to an a new apartment that is one level which should be easier for her. Robert (grandson of Fran) has been able to find work.

Katherine Parker, missionary in Nepal: Katherine reports that the emphasis now will be on long-term recovery efforts in Dhang province. Katherine will continue to work with WASH, nutrition and psycho-social support. Non-earthquake work is resuming and Katherine will soon be traveling to Rukum and Rupandehi for the baseline survey of their community health program focusing on maternal and child health.

A couple of our church family have housing needs:

Lara Choe is looking for a single Christian woman to share a house in Point Richmond.  Big bedroom, private bath, walk-in closet and bay view of three bridges within walking distance to downtown Point Richmond. Cost $12-1500/mo. Contact: larachoe@gmail.com.

Mim Drake & Kate Gebhart are looking for a new place to live because their condo is being sold. They would like to stay in the Point.   They have a sterling letter of recommendation from their current residence.  They do greyhound rescue and would have an occasional dog or two around but would spend most of the day at work, Bark Stix.  A yard would be nice but not necessary.   Please call 415.595.4006 or 510.235.2430

New Church Brochure:  The new brochure is here! Pick one up and share with your friends.

 

 

Generosity

New Public Address System: Donations are coming in to support our new system. Donations are $45 for a whole piano key which you can color and sign and donations of any amount are welcome. Karen Merkle, who died early in June left a Memorial Donation of $500 to our church. The Memorial Committee has donated the money to our new sound system. Karen would be pleased since music was such a large part of her life. See the display of piano keys and further information at the desk in the back in Friendship Hall.

If you would like to donate for relief for the people of Nepal, go to umcor.org the Advance.

 

Don’t forget that donations for Imagine No Malaria are always welcome.

Please add donations to the church for Katherine Parker so that we can continue to sponsor her good work. It costs $250 per year to be sponsors.

 

 

Events

New Membership Class starting this Sunday, June 28 at 10 am in Friendship Hall as part of the Adult Sunday School. Please let Pastor Dan know if you are interested in joining our congregation.

Saturday, July 25, 1:30 pm, Finance Committee Meeting at Matthew and Jennifer Foster’s home; 1052 Hawthorne Dr., Rodeo

 

The Methodist Federation for Social Action (MFSA) is meeting in San Antonio, Texas in conjunction with the Reconciling Ministries Network. Gather at the River, Thursday, August 6 to Sunday, August 9. The conference will be working on issues of justice throughout the church and resolutions they would like to see presented at the General Conference in 2016. Register at http://www.gather2015.org/.

Vacation Bible School will be the week of August 10 thru 14. Contact Jean Reynolds if you would like to help at sweetheart05@mac.com. this is always a fun event and much looked forward to by the children and the helpers.

Saturday, September 26, 4-7 pm, 7th Annual Jean Eakle Art Auction and Gala: Tax deductible Donations needed: Arts, crafts, jewelry, pottery, photography, cash or gift certificates for auction and door prizes. Contact Diane, dianefrary@comcast.net or Debbie, debbenko160@aol.com. Donations can be dropped off any Sunday morning 10-11 am and 12-1 pm at First United Methodist Church, 201 Martina St., Point Richmond.

 

Please send submissions for FUMC News and Events to Barbara Haley, editor: bahcats@sbcglobal.net

 

 

Richmond First United Methodist News and Events

 

Pastor’s Perspective

Dear Friends,

All are welcome to the membership classes this summer, members, friends, regular attendees of the Adult Bible Study. Come and get acquainted with our faith stories.

Here are my notes from Sunday.

Moving On to Perfection, Psalm 130

Pastor Dan Damon, Richmond 1^st UMC, 6-28-15

 

Introduction

 

This week our bishop sent this letter to the churches called United Methodist in the California-Nevada annual conference:

 

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

 

Mark 12:31 says, “You shall love your neighbor as yourself. There is no other commandment greater than these.” Throughout the history of the United States, the Supreme Court has been called on to ensure equality, liberty, and justice for all people.  This can be seen in the abolition of slavery, the women’s movement, the civil rights movement of the 60s, and now in the fight for marriage equality. Today, in a 5 to 4 decision, the United States Supreme Court ruled in favor of marriage equality for all people.

 

For decades, the United Methodist Church has debated this issue.  Next year when General Conference gathers in Portland, Oregon, the decision to change, or reaffirm the church’s historic position will be considered.  Pastors and congregations within our annual conference hold opinions across the spectrum of this decision.  But, throughout the years, the California-Nevada Conference has consistently stood for full inclusion, and equal rights, for all people in our denomination, and secular society.

 

In our Social Principles, United Methodists have stated our common belief around this value:

We affirm that all persons are individuals of sacred worth, created in the image of God. All persons need the ministry of the Church in their struggles for human fulfillment, as well as the spiritual and emotional care of a fellowship that enables reconciling relationships with God, with others, and with self.

 

This Supreme Court decision calls attention to the difference between the laws of the United States, and the policy of our church.  The law does not require anyone to violate their conscience of what God has called them to do, or their theological understanding.  But, if we seek to be an inclusive church that serves all of our parishioners, and all of our neighbors, we will have to consider how we treat all people equally. The heart of our call to ministry is to be pastor to the people of the congregation, and the community, we serve. May we continue to be a people of prayer, and hope, as we work towards a day of equality and inclusion for all people created in the image of God.

 

Alice Stokes Paul, women’s rights activist and leader in getting women the right to vote says, “I never doubted that equal rights was the right direction. Most reforms, most problems are complicated. But to me there is nothing complicated about ordinary equality.”

 

Grace and Peace,

Bishop Warner H. Brown, Jr.

Resident Bishop

 

Retell the Scripture Story

 

Out of the depths have I cried to you. O God, hear my voice: let your ears be attentive to the voice of my prayers. If you marked our shortcomings, O God, who could stand? But there is forgiveness with you, that you may be loved.

I wait for you, my soul waits, and in your word do I hope.

 

My soul waits for the God more than they that watch for the morning, more than they that watch for the morning. Let us hope in the God: for with God there is mercy and great redemption. God will redeem us from all of our sins.

Psalm 130 (KJV, para. DCD)

 

As in the blues, in the Psalms of lament we come from a place of deep and desperate honesty as we approach the throne of grace. Out of the depths we call to God, and God hears our cry. We have both a personal relationship with our Creator, and a community relationship through the body of Christ, the church. God always hears our prayer. It always takes longer for the prayer and work of the church to make a difference in the wider world, but we continue the prayer and the work for justice. We make progress every day toward the large goals for which we yearn.

 

Application

 

The Methodists often say, “We are moving on to perfection.” We are not perfect, but are moving in that direction. It has been an eventful week for our country. President Obama quoted the preamble to the 1787 constitution of the United States this week as he said, “We’ve made our union a little more perfect.” Also this week, to comfort the grieving families in Charleston, South Carolina, he led the congregation in singing “Amazing Grace,” a hymn text written by John Newton, a slave trader who had converted to Christianity. We don’t have a magic wand to wave, but we have letters to write, prayers to pray, work yet to do. Shirley Murray, a Presbyterian hymnwriter from New Zealand, puts it this way:

 

This thread I weave,

this step I dance,

this stone I carve,

this ball I bounce,

this nail I drive,

this pearl I string,

this flag I wave,

this note I sing.

 

This pot I shape,

this fire I light,

this fence I leap,

this bone I knit,

this seed I nurse,

this rift I mend,

this child I raise,

this earth I tend.

 

This check I write,

this march I join,

this faith I state,

this truth I sign,

this is small part,

in one small place,

of one heart’s beat

for one great Peace.

 

Shirley Erena Murray

Words © 1992 Hope Publishing Company

 

Let us be in prayer.

 

 

Joys and Concerns

Please keep Katherine Parker, our missionary, and the people of Nepal in your prayers.

Megan Timberlake is asking for prayers for her ex-husband, Ernest R. Style III, as he struggles with serious illness.

Deby McFadyen is requesting prayers for three young friends who are battling cancer. Please remember Sarah Talkington, Carolyn Thomas and Jimmy Lowe in your prayers.

 

Sandra Kokoruda (Fran Smith’s daughter) update: Sandra thanks everyone for their prayers and concerns. Fran reports that Sandra is more animated and cheerful. She is having chemotherapy every two weeks and it should be completed the end of August. Both Fran and Sandra ask that prayers continue.

 

 

Pat Dornan and Linda Pereira continue to need your prayers of support. Update: Hospice services have started. Pat says that Linda is more alert and has been able to be up in the wheel chair for short periods of time. Lorraine, Linda’s mother, fell last week and had surgery on a broken arm and elbow. She is currently in a Skilled Nursing Facility for rehab so that she can return home. As you can imagine, Pat is stressed with all the care demands.

 

Robbie Robinson  would appreciate your prayers.

 

Helen Wysham welcomes your prayers for healing as she undergoes chemotherapy.

 

Bobby and Pamella Hall would like to be remembered in prayer as they go through some difficult personal times.

 

Please keep the people of Camp Liberty in your prayers as chaos reigns in Iraq and near the camp.

 

News

Pastor Dan will be away for vacation and the Hymn Society Conference In New Orleans, July 8-22.

Fran Smith went to South Dakota to visit Sandra and Robert last week. She was there for Robert’s birthday which pleased him greatly. Fran says that Sandra has an extensive support system there between family members and the good managed care workers. Fran has now met all the workers involved in Sandra’s care and she is so pleased that she can have Sandra so well cared for. Sandra is moving to an a new apartment that is one level which should be easier for her. Robert (grandson of Fran) has been able to find work.

Bill Medford from the General Board of Church and Society (gbcs.com) has held a phone conference and written a report on Racism and Gun Violence with references on how our church community can help. The General Commission on Religion and Race has resources for church communities at gcorr.org/resources. The recent killings in South Carolina have energized the greater Methodist Church and is asking for help from all of us who want to try to make a difference as a church community. Check out these websites. Bring your ideas and or commitment to change to the Administrative Board.

Our Father’s Day Jazz Service was a delight with the Dan Damon Quartet: Kurt Ribak, bass; Lincoln Adler, Sax: Rob Hart, drums:

and Dan Damon, piano. Sheilani  Alix, Gill Stanfield, Bethany Reynolds, Heather Damon and Eileen Johnson singing for us. It was so good to see Kurt Ribak, having more use of his hand after multiple surgeries and his diligence with rehab. Our thanks to Pastor Dan for another memorable service through music.

Katherine Parker, missionary in Nepal: Katherine reports that the emphasis now will be on long-term recovery efforts in Dhang province. Katherine will continue to work with WASH, nutrition and psycho-social support. Non-earthquake work is resuming and Katherine will soon be traveling to Rukum and Rupandehi for the baseline survey of their community health program focusing on maternal and child health.

A couple of our church family have housing needs:

Lara Choe is looking for a single Christian woman to share a house in Point Richmond.  Big bedroom, private bath, walk-in closet and bay view of three bridges within walking distance to downtown Point Richmond. Cost $12-1500/mo. Contact: larachoe@gmail.com.

Mim Drake & Kate Gebhart are looking for a new place to live because their condo is being sold. They would like to stay in the Point.   They have a sterling letter of recommendation from their current residence.  They do greyhound rescue and would have an occasional dog or two around but would spend most of the day at work, Bark Stix.  A yard would be nice but not necessary.   Please call 415.595.4006 or 510.235.2430

New Church Brochure:  The new brochure is here! Pick one up and share with your friends.

 

 

Generosity

New Public Address System: Donations are coming in to support our new system. Donations are $45 for a whole piano key which you can color and sign and donations of any amount are welcome. Karen Merkle, who died early in June left a Memorial Donation of $500 to our church. The Memorial Committee has donated the money to our new sound system. Karen would be pleased since music was such a large part of her life. See the display of piano keys and further information at the desk in the back in Friendship Hall.

If you would like to donate for relief for the people of Nepal, go to umcor.org the Advance.

 

Don’t forget that donations for Imagine No Malaria are always welcome.

Please add donations to the church for Katherine Parker so that we can continue to sponsor her good work. It costs $250 per year to be sponsors.

 

 

Events

New Membership Class starting this Sunday, June 28 at 10 am in Friendship Hall as part of the Adult Sunday School. Please let Pastor Dan know if you are interested in joining our congregation.

 

The Methodist Federation for Social Action (MFSA) is meeting in San Antonio, Texas in conjunction with the Reconciling Ministries Network. Gather at the River, Thursday, August 6 to Sunday, August 9. The conference will be working on issues of justice throughout the church and resolutions they would like to see presented at the General Conference in 2016. Register at http://www.gather2015.org/.

Vacation Bible School will be the week of August 10 thru 14. Contact Jean Reynolds if you would like to help at sweetheart05@mac.com. this is always a fun event and much looked forward to by the children and the helpers.

Saturday, September 26, 4-7 pm, 7th Annual Jean Eakle Art Auction and Gala: Tax deductible Donations needed: Arts, crafts, jewelry, pottery, photography, cash or gift certificates for auction and door prizes. Contact Diane, dianefrary@comcast.net or Debbie, debbenko160@aol.com. Donations can be dropped off any Sunday morning 10-11 am and 12-1 pm at First United Methodist Church, 201 Martina St., Point Richmond.

 

Please send submissions for FUMC News and Events to Barbara Haley, editor: bahcats@sbcglobal.net