Richmond First United Methodist News and Events

 

Pastor’s Perspective

Dear Friends,

We had a great time in church Sunday playing the Father’s Day Jazz service (Kurt Ribak, bass; Lincoln Adler, sax; Rob Hart, drums; Dan Damon, piano). We sang spirituals and the blues, two sides of the same coin. We made a joyful noise and a big circle at the end.

This Sunday at 10 am we will start the summer membership class. Invite a friend to learn about joining the church.

Grace and Peace,

Dan

 

 

Joys and Concerns

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

PRAYER: NEPAL RECOVERY

Katherine Parker, missionary with Global Ministries who serves as part of the Health Team of the United Mission to Nepal (UMN), shares a new list of prayer requests as response efforts in Nepal continue after the April 25 earthquake.

• Please pray for the seven emergency community health facilitators, local health workers and female community health volunteers as they spend the next three months sharing key health messages and coordinating nutrition, reproductive health, psycho-social support and WASH (Water, Sanitation and Hygiene) responses in remote parts of Dhading district.
• Please pray for the provision and distribution of seed stock so that farmers can plant this year’s crop before the monsoon and avert future food insecurity.
• Please pray for those whose homes are severely damaged or destroyed that monsoon stable housing can be quickly constructed.
• Please pray for those living in the far north where even walking paths have been damaged that needed imports like salt will be available in sufficient supply.
• Please pray for UMN’s on-going long-term development work in other less-affected districts that they will not be forgotten and projects will flourish. Pray especially for our office in Doti (far-western region) that was also damaged during an aftershock.
• Please pray for those who have lost family members and homes.

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 than she has been in months. Sandra has undergone 5 chemo treatments and feels good. 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 failing. She can no longer stand, is having more difficulty with chocking on food and is sleeping more.

 

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

The United States Supreme Court has handed down two decisions this week that promote human rights. The Affordable Care Act monetary sanctions for low income people has been upheld, so potentially many people locked out of health care can now afford insurance coverage.

The Court also ruled that gay marriages are legal in all fifty states giving equal rights under the law.

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

 

Our public address system has served our church well for many years, but it is nearing the end of its service. A new sound system is on the horizon for our church. The choir and the congregation need to be able to hear the spoken and sung word in our worship services. The Administrative Board has discussed the matter fully and has decided to encourage your giving to this project. A new public address system will serve the needs of the church for future generations both with the spoken word and with the music that is presented in the church. Please pray and contribute what you can to help us achieve this good goal. This will help us continue in ministry serving the needs of the whole community.

How You Can Help

 

You can purchase a Piano Key for $45. Choose your key and color it or sign it or both! Sale of the entire keyboard will get us to our goal.

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

 Events

.

 

Ca/Nev Annual Conference, June 17-20 (Wed. thru Sat.). This year’s theme is ” Engaging Faith in the Public Square”. San Francisco Airport Hyatt Regency, 1333 Old Bayshore Hwy, Burlingame, CA. Pastor Dan and Eileen will be attending.

Sunday, June 21, Father’s Day Jazz Service: Dan Damon Jazz Quartet, 11 am Service with singer Sheilani Alix.

 

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.

 

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,

Here are my sermon notes from Sunday. I will be teaching a membership class during the summer. If you are interested in joining the church (or just curious) please come to the Adult Bible Study that meets every Sunday at 10 am. I will start membership classes June 28. I miss only two Sundays this summer (July 12 and 19) so with those exceptions, I will be happy to talk about the United Methodist Church with you. We will welcome new members in September.

Share the good news with some one you care about. Invite someone to church for the Father’s Day Jazz Service.

Love and Joy,

Dan

A Mustard Seed Mark 4:26-34

Pastor Dan Damon, Richmond 1^st UMC, 6-14-15

 

Introduction

 

Mustard in Meridian, an early sermonic snafu:

It was 9 am Sunday morning, and I was the only one in the room who didn’t know what mustard looked like. I started my sermon with the honest question, “Has anyone ever seen mustard?” They laughed and told me it was the yellow weed that grew everywhere, about two feet high, along the highways.

 

Retell the Scripture Story

 

Jesus went on to say, “The Kingdom of God is like this. A man scatters seed in his field. He sleeps at night, is up and about during the day, and all the while the seeds are sprouting and growing. Yet he does not know how it happens.

The soil itself makes the plants grow and bear fruit; first the tender stalk appears, then the head, and finally the head full of grain. When the grain is ripe, the man starts cutting it with his sickle, because harvest time has come.

 

“What shall we say the Kingdom of God is like?” asked Jesus. “What parable shall we use to explain it? It is like this. A man takes a mustard seed, the smallest seed in the world, and plants it in the ground. After a while it grows up and becomes the biggest of all plants. It puts out such large branches that the birds come and make their nests in its shade.”

 

Jesus preached his message to the people, using many other parables like these; he told them as much as they could understand. He would not speak to them without using parables, but when he was alone with his disciples, he would explain everything to them.

Good News Translation © 1992 American Bible Society

 

Application

 

From something small something great may grow. This is a parable for the small church.

 

I sent my small hymn “With the People We Have,” to Marcia McFee this week, and she plans to use it in San Antonio, Texas, August 6-9, at the Methodist Federation for Social Action and Reconciling Ministries Network joint conference, “Gather at the River.”

 

Dear Marcia,

 

I woke up thinking of you this morning. Thank you for your talk last summer at the Hymn Society Conference, and for your kind words to me. We are singing “With the People We Have” at our annual conference next week. Check out Ruth Duck’s new Hope collection due out this month, and Brian Wren’s collection from Hope next summer.

 

I’ll be leading a jazz hymn festival in New Orleans this July. Hope to see you there.

 

All best,

 

Dan

 

Dan!

You woke up with me in mind because today I am designing the worship for Reconciling Ministries gathering this summer and “With the People We Have” is PERFECT! What a gift! This is going to skyrocket this hymn to a LOT of churches and that makes me happy. See? What I said about hymn writers as midwives in the midst of my labor is proven true again.

 

Alas, I will not be at the Hymn Society in New Orleans. I surely wish I were. I’m very excited about Ruth’s collection since my ritual piece is in it! Didn’t know about Brian’s new collection. Yay! Are you the editor on that one? You are always a gift. Thanks for letting the Spirit wake you up and nudge you to write me!

 

Peace& passion,

Marcia McFee, Ph.D.

Worship Design Studio:

Inspiration, Education and a Practical App for Team Design

www.worshipdesignstudio.com

 

Here is the text:

 

With the people we have

we can hail a new horizon.

With the people we have

we can risk a desert road.

With the people we have

we can wade the troubled waters.

God is working in us:

we can build a better world.

 

With the people we have

we can sing a song of welcome.

With the people we have

we can join our hands in hope.

With the people we have

we can move a mighty mountain.

God is working in us:

we can build a better world.

 

With the people we have

we can dare to be a witness.

With the people we have

we can choose the way of love.

With the people we have

we can draw the circle wider.

God is working in us:

we can build a better world.

 

God is working in us

to repair what has been broken.

God is working in us

to redeem what once was lost.

God is working in us

to resist when evil threatens.

God is working in us:

we can build a better world.

 

WORDS and MUSIC © 2013 Hope Publishing Company, Carol Stream, IL 60188. All rights reserved.

 

I was encouraged and inspired at the October 2011 meeting of the Methodist Federation for Social Action (MFSA) held at Jones Memorial United Methodist Church, San Francisco, California. I was glad to find members of my own congregation taking leadership and expressing their compassionate interest in the world. I am sometimes troubled to hear that unless we have large numbers, we can’t do much. As the pastor of a small church, I have learned to do a lot with a little. The spark for this hymn text came to me as I was driving home from that MFSA meeting. I used the ideas in a sermon the next day, but it took me a little longer to shape them into a hymn. I write to empower people of faith to risk, to change, and to grow.

I grew up working in my dad’s bicycle shop in Rapid City, South Dakota. Referring to a customer’s poorly maintained bicycle, he would often say, “We can make it a little better.”

 

In closing I’d like to share something from the April 30 issue of the Washington Post that my brother, a missionary in Macau, recently sent me. The article is entitled: Stop Making Church Cool (Washington Post 4/30/15)

 

Church attendance has plummeted among young adults. In the U.S. 59% of people 18 to 29 with a Christian background have, at some point, dropped out. According to the Pew Forum on Religion and Public Life, among those who came of age around the year 2000, a solid quarter claim no religious affiliation, making them significantly more disconnected from faith than Gen-Xers were at a comparable point in their lives and twice as detached as Boomers were as young adults.

 

In response, many churches have sought to lure Millennials back by focusing on style points: cooler bands, hipper worship, edgier programming and impressive technology. Recent Barna Group research found 67% of Millennials prefer a “classic” church over a “trendy” one, and 77% would choose a “sanctuary” over an “auditorium.” They also exhibit an increasing aversion to exclusive, closed-minded religious communities masquerading as hip places. Barna’s David Kinnaman said “Millennials are not disillusioned with tradition; they are frustrated with slick or shallow expressions of religion.”

 

With the people we have, we can build a better world. Let us be in prayer.

 

 

Joys and Concerns

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

PRAYER: NEPAL RECOVERY

Katherine Parker, missionary with Global Ministries who serves as part of the Health Team of the United Mission to Nepal (UMN), shares a new list of prayer requests as response efforts in Nepal continue after the April 25 earthquake.

• Please pray for the seven emergency community health facilitators, local health workers and female community health volunteers as they spend the next three months sharing key health messages and coordinating nutrition, reproductive health, psycho-social support and WASH (Water, Sanitation and Hygiene) responses in remote parts of Dhading district.
• Please pray for the provision and distribution of seed stock so that farmers can plant this year’s crop before the monsoon and avert future food insecurity.
• Please pray for those whose homes are severely damaged or destroyed that monsoon stable housing can be quickly constructed.
• Please pray for those living in the far north where even walking paths have been damaged that needed imports like salt will be available in sufficient supply.
• Please pray for UMN’s on-going long-term development work in other less-affected districts that they will not be forgotten and projects will flourish. Pray especially for our office in Doti (far-western region) that was also damaged during an aftershock.
• Please pray for those who have lost family members and homes.

Karen Merkle who often attended our church, died June 4, 2015 of pancreatic cancer. She moved back East several years ago and was thrilled with her life there. Condolences can be emailed to the family at www.oakshinefuneralhome.com.

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 than she has been in months. Sandra has undergone 5 chemo treatments and feels good. 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 failing. She can no longer stand, is having more difficulty with chocking on food and is sleeping more.

 

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

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.

Mark your calendar! 

 

The 7th Annual

Jean Eakle Art Auction and Gala

Saturday, September 26, 2015 from 4-7 p.m. at

The Point San Pablo Yacht Club

@ 700 W. Cutting Blvd. in Richmond located

on San Francisco Bay.

 

Invite your friends and neighbors!

This is our second largest fundraiser.

 

Donations needed at this time ! 

Do you craft, knit, crochet, make jewelry, sculpt, paint etc., or would like to donate cash or gift certificates for auction and door prizes?

 

Please contact:

Diane @ dianefrary@comcast.net or Debbie @ debbenko160@aol.com;

or bring your tax deductible donations to:

Richmond First United Methodist Church @ 201 Martina St.,

Point Richmond (at the corner of W. Richmond and Martina St.)

on Sunday’s between 10-11 am or 12-1 pm

 

 

 

Generosity

New Public Address System

 

Our public address system has served our church well for many years, but it is nearing the end of its service. A new sound system is on the horizon for our church. The choir and the congregation need to be able to hear the spoken and sung word in our worship services. The Administrative Board has discussed the matter fully and has decided to encourage your giving to this project. A new public address system will serve the needs of the church for future generations both with the spoken word and with the music that is presented in the church. Please pray and contribute what you can to help us achieve this good goal. This will help us continue in ministry serving the needs of the whole community.

How You Can Help

 

You can purchase a Piano Key for $45. Choose your key and color it or sign it or both! Sale of the entire keyboard will get us to our goal.

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

.

 

Ca/Nev Annual Conference, June 17-20 (Wed. thru Sat.). This year’s theme is ” Engaging Faith in the Public Square”. San Francisco Airport Hyatt Regency, 1333 Old Bayshore Hwy, Burlingame, CA. Pastor Dan and Eileen will be attending.

Sunday, June 21, Father’s Day Jazz Service: Dan Damon Jazz Quartet, 11 am Service with singer Sheilani Alix.

 

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.

 

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,

Here are my sermon notes from Sunday. I will be teaching a membership class during the summer. If you are interested in joining the church (or just curious) please come to the Adult Bible Study that meets every Sunday at 10 am. I will start membership classes June 28. I miss only two Sundays this summer (July 12 and 19) so with those exceptions, I will be happy to talk about the United Methodist Church with you. We will welcome new members in September.

Share the good news with some one you care about. Invite someone to church for the Father’s Day Jazz Service.

Love and Joy,

Dan

Who Is My Neighbor? Mark 3:20-35

Pastor Dan Damon, Richmond 1^st UMC, 6-7-15

 

Introduction

 

Dennis Johnson played a lovely solo piano recital here yesterday to benefit Spirit in Action. Do you remember hearing about Spirit in Action last fall from the director, Tanya Cothran? I hope we’ll hear her again this fall when she comes out from Toronto to help her folks at the Dickens Fair. As a small church in a lovely neighborhood we are always looking for ways to reach out in concern and service to the world. Supporting Spirit in Action is one of the ways we do that. The concert yesterday raised money [$1,153] for small grants to people who are starting small businesses mostly in Africa. We heard about some of the work yesterday somewhere between Beethoven and Ravel.

 

Retell the Scripture Story

 

Today Jesus’ message is a bit awkward. We have old school language about demons and Satan. Is there a profound reality here waiting to be freed form layers of tradition? Jesus takes these things seriously. The tensions between Jesus and the religious authorities were heating up. People were saying, “Jesus has gone out of his mind.” In response to this accusation Jesus “called them out” and answered the accusers with a parable:

 

How can Satan cast out Satan? If a kingdom is divided against itself if cannot stand. If a house is divided against itself, that house will not be able to stand.”

 

Jesus was trying to do some good in the world of his time. As always, there were some who stood on the side throwing the stones of false accusations. But Jesus continued his good work in their midst, showing that good works for good and evil comes to evil. That is the nature of things.

 

In the church we try to work together to make small improvements over time to benefit our worshiping community and those who are outside these walls. We try to model good behavior so that others will be drawn to us, and will choose that good behavior for themselves. Are you with us or against us in your speaking and in your actions? Let us ignore the false accusations of the story regarding Jesus and later the Holy Spirit, and move into the final question of our gospel lesson:

 

Jesus is told, “Your mother and your brothers and sisters are outside asking for you.” And Jesus replied, “Who are my mother and my brothers?” And looking around him, Jesus said, “Here are my mother and my brothers! Whoever does the will of God is my brother and sister and mother.”

 

Question: Who is my brother [sister]?

Answer: The one who acts like my brother [sister].

 

Application

 

This is a difficult passage, rooted in conflict and danger. It reminds us of the difficulty of following Jesus, but it also reminds us of the great possibilities that we can glimpse in prayer and hope. If we have only the smallest amount of faith, great results can pour out like streams in the desert.

 

Tanya Cothran of Spirit in Action <spiritinaction.org> Micro Grants, Major Change offers these five “Why I Serve” insights:

 

Serve to discover abundance: the radical shift from “me” to “we.”

Serve to express gratitude.

Serve to transform yourself.

Serve to honor our profound inner connection.

Serve to align with a natural unfolding.

 

We have the privilege to be used as yeast, as salt, to be a quickening Spirit revealed in loving action now Seizing this privilege to be God’s yeast in the world is part of the natural unfolding of expanding compassion in the world.

 

As Martin Luther King, Jr. often quoted, ”The arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends towards justice.”

 

Serving for us can be reaching up and grabbing that arc and bending justice a bit closer to the now.

 

What inspires you to serve others?

 

Let us act like we are brothers and sisters in Christ, loving each other and caring for the world around us. Quoting John Wesley, founder of Methodism, in closing:

 

Let us do all the good we can, by all the means we can, in all the ways we can, in all the places we can, to all the people we can, as long as ever we can.

 

Let us be in prayer.

 

 

Joys and Concerns

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

PRAYER: NEPAL RECOVERY

Katherine Parker, missionary with Global Ministries who serves as part of the Health Team of the United Mission to Nepal (UMN), shares a new list of prayer requests as response efforts in Nepal continue after the April 25 earthquake.

• Please pray for the seven emergency community health facilitators, local health workers and female community health volunteers as they spend the next three months sharing key health messages and coordinating nutrition, reproductive health, psycho-social support and WASH (Water, Sanitation and Hygiene) responses in remote parts of Dhading district.
• Please pray for the provision and distribution of seed stock so that farmers can plant this year’s crop before the monsoon and avert future food insecurity.
• Please pray for those whose homes are severely damaged or destroyed that monsoon stable housing can be quickly constructed.
• Please pray for those living in the far north where even walking paths have been damaged that needed imports like salt will be available in sufficient supply.
• Please pray for UMN’s on-going long-term development work in other less-affected districts that they will not be forgotten and projects will flourish. Pray especially for our office in Doti (far-western region) that was also damaged during an aftershock.
• Please pray for those who have lost family members and homes.

Karen Merkle who often attended our church, died June 4, 2015 of pancreatic cancer. She moved back East several years ago and was thrilled with her life there. Condolences can be emailed to the family at www.oakshinefuneralhome.com.

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 than she has been in months. Sandra has undergone 5 chemo treatments and feels good. 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 failing. She can no longer stand, is having more difficulty with chocking on food and is sleeping more.

 

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.

 

Arpha MacIntyre is much better. Update: She has been able to return to living independently in her apartment. She is grateful for our prayers of support and healing. Arpha played the piano at our church for many years. If you wish to send a card: Sierra View Homes Retirement Community, 1155 E. Springfield Ave., Reedly, CA 93654. Jane Carnall visited with Arpha in May and Arpha is thrilled to be getting cards and messages of love from our church community.

 

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

 

News

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.

The classical piano concert that Dennis Johnson performed last Saturday brought in over $1,500 for Spirit in Action. The concert was lovely and we are hoping he will do one again next year.

United Methodist Women have packed up 10 school kits to go to the CA/NV Conference for eventual delivery to the depot in Salt Lake City for UMCOR to release into the world of the disadvantaged. Much appreciation to all those who helped by giving items, giving money for purchase of items and for shoppers and packers. A special Thank You to Linda Woody-Wood for again making beautiful bags to hold the items.

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

Mark your calendar! 

 

The 7th Annual

Jean Eakle Art Auction and Gala

Saturday, September 26, 2015 from 4-7 p.m. at

The Point San Pablo Yacht Club

@ 700 W. Cutting Blvd. in Richmond located

on San Francisco Bay.

 

Invite your friends and neighbors!

This is our second largest fundraiser.

 

Donations needed at this time ! 

Do you craft, knit, crochet, make jewelry, sculpt, paint etc., or would like to donate cash or gift certificates for auction and door prizes?

 

Please contact:

Diane @ dianefrary@comcast.net or Debbie @ debbenko160@aol.com;

or bring your tax deductible donations to:

Richmond First United Methodist Church @ 201 Martina St.,

Point Richmond (at the corner of W. Richmond and Martina St.)

on Sunday’s between 10-11 am or 12-1 pm

 

 

 

Generosity

New Public Address System

 

Our public address system has served our church well for many years, but it is nearing the end of its service. A new sound system is on the horizon for our church. The choir and the congregation need to be able to hear the spoken and sung word in our worship services. The Administrative Board has discussed the matter fully and has decided to encourage your giving to this project. A new public address system will serve the needs of the church for future generations both with the spoken word and with the music that is presented in the church. Please pray and contribute what you can to help us achieve this good goal. This will help us continue in ministry serving the needs of the whole community.

How You Can Help

 

You can purchase a Piano Key for $45. Choose your key and color it or sign it or both! Sale of the entire keyboard will get us to our goal.

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

Sunday, June 14, 3 pm Kelly Hope (Bob Hope’s son) will be speaking about his father. This is a fundraiser for the Kitchen Revival Committee of El Sobrante UMC. This should be a fun event. Donations $15. El Sobrante UMC, 670 Appian Way, El Sobrante.

An Evening of Music: Sunday, June 14, 6:30 pm.  Pinole United Methodist Church is presenting an evening of music for our enjoyment. Free will donations at door. Pinole UMC, 2000 San Pablo Ave., Pinole. Please see flyer.

 

Ca/Nev Annual Conference, June 17-20 (Wed. thru Sat.). This year’s theme is ” Engaging Faith in the Public Square”. Registration is now open at www.cnum.org/acs15. San Francisco Airport Hyatt Regency, 1333 Old Bayshore Hwy, Burlingame, CA.

Thurs. June 18, at 5:45 p.m. – MFSA/Advocacy and Justice Dinner at New Vision UMC, 450 Chadbourne Ave. in Millbrae (2 mi. from the CA/NV Conference Convention site), with guest speakers​ The Rev. Sharon Delgado on “Global Migration, Climate Justice, & System Change,”  and immigration attorney Sharron Williams on “Immigration: Children at Our Borders – the Effect of DAPA & Extended DACA on Families.”   Also attending will be The Rev. Israel Alvaran, this year’s Bishop Kelly Peace and Justice Award winner.  RSVP by June 11th by completing the form on the attached flyer and mailing it with your $20 check. Seating is limited. Please join us.

 

Save the Dates: June 14-20 for Mt. Lassen Journey Farthest Out Camp. The camp provides a time apart for spiritual growth and opening our lives to God physically, emotionally, mentally and spiritually. The vision is to provide a place where all people are accepted with the unconditional love that Jesus shares. All ages are welcome. Registration is open through  “Mt. Lassen JFO”.

Sunday, June 21, Father’s Day Jazz Service: Dan Damon Jazz Quartet, 11 am Service with singer Sheilani Alix.

 

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 sweatheart05@mac.com. this is always a fun event and much looked forward to by the children and the helpers.

 

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

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Richmond First United Methodist News and Events

 

Pastor’s Perspective

Dear Friends,

Here are my notes from last Sunday.

Love and Joy,

Dan

The Nature of God, John 3:1-17

Pastor Dan Damon, Richmond 1^st UMC, 5-31-15

 

Introduction

 

This is Trinity Sunday, a day to explore the mysterious and wonderful nature of the divine, the Good, the God who is love. God is ultimately one, but is revealed in many ways. Al Carmines wrote a song that celebrates the diversity of creation: Many gifts, one Spirit, one love known in many ways. In this church we honor the light in all faith traditions as we praise God from where we are. There is a sub-section in our hymnal called “God’s Nature.” Did you know? (UMH 102-125) It comes under the general heading The Glory of the Triune God. We sing hymns celebrating the Father/Mother, Son, and Holy Spirit. Sometimes we use the terms Creator, Redeemer, and Sustainer in the “trinitarian formula.” As Tom Troeger says in his trinitarian hymn text, Source and Sovereign, Rock and Cloud: May the church in prayer recall that no single holy name but the truth behind them all is the God whom we proclaim.

 

Retell the Scripture Story

 

In our gospel lesson today we have the familiar story of Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews, coming to rabbi Jesus at night with a question: How can a man be born when he is old? Jesus says, except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God. To explain this mystery Jesus continues, “The wind blows where it wills, and you hear the sound but cannot tell where it comes from or where it goes. So is everyone who is born of the Spirit.

 

Nicodemus says, “How can these things be?” Soon Jesus says, “For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through him might be saved.” Some of us remember the famous choral setting of this passage by John Stainer.

 

This is the heart of the Christian faith. It touches me at an emotional level and lets me know that, for better or worse, I am a Christian. I am a lifelong follower of this Jesus. Brian Wren, my teacher for hymn text writing gives us this hymn text expressing some of the divine mystery:

 

God of many Names

gathered into One,

in your glory come and meet us,

Moving, endlessly Becoming;

God of Hovering Wings,

Womb and Birth of time,

joyfully we sing your praises,

Breath of life in every people –

Hush, hush, hallelujah, hallelujah!

Shout, shout, hallelujah, hallelujah!

Sing, sing, hallelujah, hallelujah!

Sing, God is love, God is love!

 

God of Jewish faith,

Exodus and Law,

in your glory come and meet us,

joy of Miriam and Moses;

God of Jesus Christ,

Rabbi of the poor,

joyfully we sing your praises,

crucified, alive for ever –

Hush, hush, hallelujah, hallelujah!

Shout, shout, hallelujah, hallelujah!

Sing, sing, hallelujah, hallelujah!

Sing, God is love, God is love!

 

God of Wounded Hands,

Web and Loom of love,

in your glory come and meet us,

Carpenter of new creation;

God of many Names

gathered into One,

joyfully we sing your praises,

Moving, endlessly Becoming –

Hush, hush, hallelujah, hallelujah!

Shout, shout, hallelujah, hallelujah!

Sing, sing, hallelujah, hallelujah!

Sing, God is love, God is love!

 

Brian Wren

Words © 1986 Hope Publishing Company

 

And Carl Daw, Associate editor of Hymnody (with me) at Hope Publishing gives us this amazing text on the person and work of the Holy Spirit:

 

Like the murmur of the dove’s song,

like the challenge of her flight,

like the vigor of the wind’s rush,

like the new flame’s eager might:

Come, Holy Spirit, come.

 

To the members of Christ’s body,

to the branches of the Vine,

to the Church in faith assembled,

to her midst as gift and sign:

Come, Holy Spirit, come.

 

With the healing of division,

with the ceaseless voice of prayer,

with the power to love and witness,

with the peace beyond compare:

Come, Holy Spirit, come.

Carl P. Daw, Jr.

Words © 1982 Hope Publishing Company

 

Application

 

In poetry we try to express something about the highest good we can imagine. The language of poetry helps us transcend the usual limits of language, and gives us brief, passing glimpses of the divine. We get these brief glimpses of the divine in the people around us, too, and in the world of nature. Eileen and I took a walk yesterday in the hills beyond Nicholl Knob and saw many wildflowers braving the drought to bloom in profusion on the hills. Have you seen them?

 

In addition to being Trinity Sunday, this is Peace with Justice Sunday. Our exploration of the nature of God remains unimportant unless we put our discoveries into action in our own lives. As we understand who God is, we can begin to live in a more loving, peaceful, and just way. As we go deeper into the mystery Christians call God, we begin to live better, more meaningful lives. Wonder is the beginning and end of religion. We wonder at the beauty of the natural world, and we are moved to greater care for creation. We plant a tree, care for a flower, save water, and in our small gardens, we work for peace and justice.

 

Listen to one more hymn text as we move into our prayer time. I wrote this exploration into God’s nature inspired by the opening of the television show The Twilight Zone. The choir will sing a new anthem setting of it next September when we start our new season.

 

Shadow and substance,

wonder and mystery,

spellbinding spinner of atoms and earth;

Soul of the cosmos,

person and energy,

Source of our being, we sing of your worth.

 

We are your image,

formed in community;

sisters and brothers of Adam and Eve.

You gave us color,

custom and history;

teach us to honor what others receive.

 

Naming the nameless,

Spirit of unity,

scanning the heavens for signs of your care;

God of the ages,

give us humility;

guide us to mystical union in prayer.

 

Daniel Charles Damon

Words © 1994 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 than she has been in months. Sandra has undergone 5 chemo treatments and feels good. 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 stronger, able to stand and transfer to her wheel chair after the removal of medications that were confusing her and making her weaker. She is calmer. She is mentally alert and more verbal. Do stop by for a short visit if you 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.

 

Arpha MacIntyre is doing better. She is still in the Residential Treatment area but has been able to return to her own apartment for parts of the day and has been able to play the piano again! Arpha played the piano at our church for many years. If you wish to send a card: Sierra View Homes Retirement Community, 1155 E. Springfield Ave., Reedly, CA 93654. Jane Carnall has spoken with Arpha several times and Arpha is thrilled to be getting cards and messages of love from our church community.

 

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

 

News

Katherine Parker, missionary in Nepal: Katherine has left for Northern Dhading to facilitate water sanitation and hygiene. for the people there. Large helicopters are being used to finally get more needed supplies into the areas unable to be reached in any other way. This week 100% of the supplies have reached the people in Dhading Provence. The next task is to get seed to the farmers to be able to plant before the wet season starts and secure housing against the coming storms.

United Methodist Women have packed up 10 school kits to go to the CA/NV Conference for eventual delivery to the depot in Salt Lake City for UMCOR to release into the world of the disadvantaged. Much appreciation to all those who helped by giving items, giving money for purchase of items and for shoppers and packers. A special Thank You to Linda Woody-Wood for again making beautiful bags to hold the items.

Junktique II was a resounding success with basement sales, pancake breakfast earnings and our Ladybug garden, we earned more than $3,600! The final count is yet to be made. Masquers Playhouse will receive $317 of this. Well done everyone!

Two members of our church community sing with the Berkeley Community Chorus, Linda Andrew-Marshall and Mary Lee Cole. The Chorus will be singing Verdi’s Requiem , June 5,6 and 7 at Hertz Hall in Berkeley.

New Church Brochure: Debbie Benko is putting the finishing touches on a new brochure for our church. Thank you to Debbie for making this long awaited project a reality! Keep your eyes open for it. The Administrative Board thinks you’ll like It.

Mark your calendar!  The 7th Annual Jean Eakle Art Auction and Gala on

Saturday, September 26, 2015 from 4-7 p.m. at The Point San Pablo Yacht Club

700 W. Cutting Blvd. in Richmond located on San Francisco Bay.

(100 yards from the intersection of Canal & Cutting.)

Featuring:

• Arts and Crafts for Bidding;
• Jewelry for Sale;
• Door Prizes;
• Live Music;
• Hors d’oeuvres; and
• No Host Bar.

Suggested donation at door $10.

 

Donations needed at this time!  Do you craft, knit, crochet, make jewelry, sculpt, paint etc., or would like to donate cash or gift certificates for auction and door prizes?

 

Please contact Diane @ dianefrary@comcast.net or

Debbie @ Debbenko160@aol.com; or bring your tax deductible donations to The Richmond First United Methodist Church @ 201 Martina St., Point Richmond (at the corner of W. Richmond and Martina St.) on Sunday’s between 10-11 a.m or 12-1 p.m.

 

Invite your friends and neighbors!  This is our second largest fundraiser for our church.

 

 

Generosity

New Public Address System

 

Our public address system has served our church well for many years, but it is nearing the end of its service. A new sound system is on the horizon for our church. The choir and the congregation need to be able to hear the spoken and sung word in our worship services. The Administrative Board has discussed the matter fully and has decided to encourage your giving to this project. A new public address system will serve the needs of the church for future generations both with the spoken word and with the music that is presented in the church. Please pray and contribute what you can to help us achieve this good goal. This will help us continue in ministry serving the needs of the whole community.

How You Can Help

 

You can purchase a Piano Key for $45. Choose your key and color it or sign it or both! Sale of the entire keyboard will get us to our goal.

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.

 

 

Events

Thursday, June 11, 7 pm, Administrative Board Meeting in Friendship Hall.

Sunday, June 14, 3 pm Kelly Hope (Bob Hope’s son) will be speaking about his father. This is a fundraiser for the Kitchen Revival Committee of El Sobrante UMC. This should be a fun event. Donations $15. El Sobrante UMC, 670 Appian Way, El Sobrante.

 

Ca/Nev Annual Conference, June 17-20 (Wed. thru Sat.). This year’s theme is ” Engaging Faith in the Public Square”. Registration is now open at www.cnum.org/acs15. San Francisco Airport Hyatt Regency, 1333 Old Bayshore Hwy, Burlingame, CA.

Thurs. June 18, at 5:45 p.m. – MFSA/Advocacy and Justice Dinner at New Vision UMC, 450 Chadbourne Ave. in Millbrae (2 mi. from the CA/NV Conference Convention site), with guest speakers​ The Rev. Sharon Delgado on “Global Migration, Climate Justice, & System Change,”  and immigration attorney Sharron Williams on “Immigration: Children at Our Borders – the Effect of DAPA & Extended DACA on Families.”   Also attending will be The Rev. Israel Alvaran, this year’s Bishop Kelly Peace and Justice Award winner.  RSVP by June 11th by completing the form on the attached flyer and mailing it with your $20 check. Seating is limited. Please join us.

 

Save the Dates: June 14-20 for Mt. Lassen Journey Farthest Out Camp. The camp provides a time apart for spiritual growth and opening our lives to God physically, emotionally, mentally and spiritually. The vision is to provide a place where all people are accepted with the unconditional love that Jesus shares. All ages are welcome. Registration is open through  “Mt. Lassen JFO”.

Sunday, June 21, Father’s Day Jazz Service: Dan Damon Jazz Quartet, 11 am Service with singer Sheilani Alix.

 

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/.

 

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

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