I’m with the DJ

Daniel del Rosario September 21, 2023

God is awesome

What a blessing September 16th was! Our Abundant Grace free parking lot event was a smashing success. Here’s a quick video to give you a snippet of our time. Our next event will be Christmas themed. It’ll happen at our church on November 18th.

Furthermore, mark your calendars for our upcoming membership class, scheduled for this Sunday, September 24th right after the church service. If you're keen on discovering more about this class, please don't hesitate to reach out to me at DJ@revdj.com.

Religion and Race: Hispanic Heritage Month infographic available

The General Commission on Religion and Race (GCORR) has created a free, downloadable infographic to help churches observe Hispanic Heritage Month from Sept. 15 to Oct. 15. The graphic also contains recommended reading and suggestions for ways to celebrate.

Hispanic Heritage Month

One way that you can celebrate Hispanic Heritage month with us is to donate toiletries that are needed one of our sibling faith communities in Mt. Vernon. We have a Hispanic speaking community that is in need of support. Below is a list of items that are needed. We will have a donation box available near the welcome table through Oct. 15th. For any further questions, please contact Caleb during church. Any full sized items of these will be greatly appreciated.

1. Toilet Paper

2. Paper Towels

3. Laundry Detergent

4. Fabric Softener

5. Dish Soap

6. Kitchen Cleaning Supplies (like multi-purpose spray, dish washing brushes/scrubbers, and sponges)

7. Bathroom Cleaning Supplies (like tub/tile/shower spray, toilet bowl cleaner)

8. Toothpaste

9. Body Wash

10. Menstrual Hygiene Products

11. Diapers

Single Board Governance update

The Discernment Team spent the afternoon of August 20th listening to concerns and questions regarding the formation of a Single Board. We thank you for your valuable input and will be looking to hold Community Conversations on a regular occurrence. The team met Tuesday to discuss what we heard at the listening session. Staff Parish Relations Committee (SPRC) issues will be addressed by forming a care group for staff separate from the "Board." Additionally, Pastor and SPRC Chair, Sandy Shinbo, will meet with staff next week to review any concerns and discuss how the new structure will work. Other issues will be incorporated into the organizational chart and Responsibilities Matrix. We plan to hold another session after Worship Service on September 17th. This will be to gather any final feedback prior to presenting to Church Council for approval.

Don’t forget that our All Church Conference is October 25th @7pm.

What is a charge conference? “Charge Conference: Annual meeting of a church where officers are elected for the coming year. It also receives reports, reviews and evaluates the total mission and ministry of the congregation, and adopts objectives and goals recommended by the administrative council, or the Administrative Board. It also recommends candidates for the ordained and diaconal ministry to the District Committee on Ordained Ministry or to the Conference Board of Diaconal Ministry. Members of the Administrative Council, or Board, are members of the Charge Conference. The district superintendent calls the meeting and presides over it. Anyone may attend the meeting.”

To learn more terms and glossaries, click here.

I’m with the DJ

Daniel del Rosario September 14, 2023

This Sunday

This Sunday, we will delve into the wisdom of Isaiah 58. This Scripture compels us to contemplate the dual facets of compassion and justice as integral expressions of our faith. Additionally, keep in mind that this Saturday, we are excited to host the Abundance Grace free parking lot event, and you can find more details below.

Furthermore, mark your calendars for our upcoming membership class, scheduled for September 24th right after the church service. If you're keen on discovering more about this class, please don't hesitate to reach out to me at DJ@revdj.com.

Furnace info update from church council chair Todd Gillies

Church Council has been working a furnace project since this Spring when the roof top units (RTU) went out and we experienced some chilly worship services. It has been determined the 4 RTU's cannot be repair and will be replaced as they have reached their life expectancy. Three quotes were obtained with Church Council approving signing the contract with Evergreen Refrigeration & HVAC for $70,000. RTU's have an expected 10 week lead time so installation should occur mid-November. Church Council had seed money to initiate the contract but will be coming to the church for additional funds.

Single Board Governance update

I’m with the DJ

Daniel del Rosario September 7, 2023

This Sunday

This Sunday we will be studying Colossians 3:11-17. This scripture emphasizes the unity we find in our shared faith and the celebration of diverse backgrounds. We will also be celebrating administrators, teachers and students returning to school.

Parents and Guardians of children and youth

As our community gets ready to embrace the excitement of a new school year, we wanted to take a moment to connect and extend our warmest thoughts and prayers to you and your family.

We understand that life can become a whirlwind, and schedules often feel overwhelming—especially at this time of year. We want you to know that you have a cherished place within our church family. We're here to support you in all your endeavors, wherever life's journey may lead you. Our church doors are open wide, and we would be absolutely thrilled to welcome you back to our worship services and the warmth of fellowship whenever the timing feels right for you.

Speaking of timing, we invite you to save the date for September 10th—a day filled with exciting opportunities. During our worship service, we'll come together as a faith community to share in a special back-to-school blessing and litany, as we embrace the journey ahead. Following the service, from 11:15 AM to Noon, we'll be hosting a dedicated gathering for parents and guardians like you. Join us for an enriching 45 minutes where we'll provide insights into the wonderful activities planned for our children and youth in the upcoming calendar year. To help us make the event even better, we're preparing a light lunch as well. If you're planning to attend, could you kindly drop me a quick email? This will allow us to make sure we have just the right amount of delicious food prepared for you.

You'll be pleased to know that our menu for the day includes some snacks and food while we gather. We're excited to share this time of good food and good company with you.

As we navigate the challenges and joys that this season brings, our hope is that it also unfolds countless blessings for you and your loved ones. Amidst the back-to-school rush, may you discover boundless opportunities for growth and learning. Please remember that should you ever need assistance, advice, or simply someone to talk to, we're here for you. Feel free to reach out, and we'll be more than happy to lend an ear and offer our support in any way we can.

With heartfelt wishes for a back-to-school experience filled with hope and positivity, we eagerly look forward to the journey ahead. We're excited at the thought of possibly crossing paths with you soon.

Grace and Peace to you,

Pastor DJ

Furnace info update from church council chair Todd Gillies

Single Board Governance update

I’m with the DJ

Daniel del Rosario August 31, 2023

This Sunday

This Sunday we will be studying Jeremiah 1. This scripture emphasizes that God knew us before we were formed in the womb and set us apart for a specific purpose. This passage highlights the uniqueness of each person's story and how God's plan includes everyone's individual journey.

We will also be celebrating Holy Communion. If you plan on joining us online, please be sure to have sacred elements ready to join us. In person, we will be serving bread (gluten free options will be available), and grape juice.

Looking for ways to support the people in Maui?

One way to support the United Methodists in Lahaina is with a financial donation. Donate to our church and the funds will be forwarded through the United Methodist connections. Visit our website or write a check with “Lahaina” or “Hawaii” in the memo line.

www.umnews/en/news/special-sanctuary-lost-in-Maui-fires

Meaningful Movies Tacoma

One of our church members shared this opportunity to connect and learn more about International Overdose Awareness Day.

“Sometimes, something as simple as starting a conversation about overdose with those around you can be liberating, enlightening and potentially life-changing.

With just two days to go until #IOAD2023, we encourage you to have a conversation about overdose with someone in your life. We have plenty of reliable information and downloadable resources about overdose and overdose prevention on our website ready for you to use.

To help spread the message, you might even like to make a call to your local media and talk about International Overdose Awareness Day. Getting media attention can be a great way to bring the topic of overdose out into the public.

A friendly reminder: please keep in mind that overdose can be a difficult and heavy topic for many. Remember to take care of yourself and people around you when you are having these conversations.

Access resources to help start the conversation: https://www.overdoseday.com/overdose-basics/

#IOAD2023 #EndOverdose #OverdoseAware

“Join us & start the conversation this Thu. 8/31 @ 7 p.m., on International Overdose Awareness Day. Free event details and registration here: https://LITTOF_Virtual.eventbrite.com”

https://www.facebook.com/MeaningfulMoviesTacoma

Parents and Guardians of children and youth

As our community gets ready to embrace the excitement of a new school year, we wanted to take a moment to connect and extend our warmest thoughts and prayers to you and your family.

You'll be pleased to know that our menu for the day includes some snacks and food while we gather. We're excited to share this time of good food and good company with you.

Grace and Peace to you,

Pastor DJ

Furnace info update from church council chair Todd Gillies

Single Board Governance update

I’m with the DJ

Daniel del Rosario August 17, 2023

Looking for ways to support the people in Maui?

www.umnews/en/news/special-sanctuary-lost-in-Maui-fires

This Sunday

We continue our series learning more about Jesus teachings as we dive into Matthew 13:1-9. After the service, our Single Board Discernment team will host a community conversation in the sanctuary for those interest in learning more about our discernment process for possibly moving toward a single board governing model. Questions and comments are most welcome!

Last Sunday

I shared a poem during my sermon. Here is a copy of what I wrote entitled, Blessing for Sabbath by Christine Valters Paintner

Sanctifier of holy rest,

on the seventh day you paused,

laying

down

the work

of creation

and entered into sacred stillness.

Let us remember we were freed from slavery

in Egypt and you continue to call us

to be people of liberation.

Kindle in us the strength to say no

to a world of perpetual busyness.

Inspire us to set aside our plans

and goals to receive the lavish gift

of rest for ourselves,

to rediscover the Paradise within.

Let the Sabbath be a time of profound renewal,

a gushing forth of the holy well,

a time of intimate connection with You,

and a rekindling of our sacred desires to be of service.

Sustain in us the desire to simply be

and not succumb to the demands

of productivity and an endless string of achievements.

Let our lives be a loving witness to a world

of restoration and refreshment,

of the profound goodness of joy and delight,

taking pleasure in the generous gift of pausing.

I also mentioned a book written by Walter Brueggemann “Sabbath as Resistance: Saying No to the Culture of Now”

I'm with the DJ

Daniel del Rosario August 10, 2023

Supporting the people of Maui

Lahaina/Maui Fire Relief

United Methodists were among the many people affected by the devastating fire on Maui.

The historic Lahaina United Methodist Church (built in 1922) was among the many buildings which were destroyed in the fire. Ironically, the church sign survived. The pastor and family were displaced. The pastor reports that no members were killed but many are displaced. Several worshiped last Sunday at the UMC church in Kahului.

For more information about the church, visit

www.umnews/en/news/special-sanctuary-lost-in-Maui-fires

Last Sunday

On Sunday, I quoted two theologians Christine Valters Paintner and Walter Brueggemann, it’s entitled Blessing for Sabbath as Resistance.

“Multitasking is the drive to be more than we are, to control more than we do, to extend our power and our effectiveness. Such practice yields a divided self, with full attention given to nothing.”

“In our own contemporary context of the rat race of anxiety, the celebration of Sabbath is an act of both resistance and alternative. It is resistance because it is a visible insistence that our lives are not defined by the production and consumption of commodity goods.”

Here’s the poem from Christine Valters Paintner

Sanctifier of holy rest,

on the seventh day you paused,

laying

down

the work

of creation

and entered into sacred stillness.

Let us remember we were freed from slavery

in Egypt and you continue to call us

to be people of liberation.

Kindle in us the strength to say no

to a world of perpetual busyness.

Inspire us to set aside our plans

and goals to receive the lavish gift

of rest for ourselves,

to rediscover the Paradise within.Christine Valters Paintner. It’s entitled Blessing for Sabbath.

Sanctifier of holy rest,

on the seventh day you paused,

laying

down

the work

of creation

and entered into sacred stillness.

Let us remember we were freed from slavery

in Egypt and you continue to call us

to be people of liberation.

Kindle in us the strength to say no

to a world of perpetual busyness.

Inspire us to set aside our plans

and goals to receive the lavish gift

of rest for ourselves,

to rediscover the Paradise within.

This Sunday

This Sunday, we delve further into our sermon series, "Short Stories of Jesus," with a keen focus on Matthew 14:22-33. This poignant narrative recounts the awe-inspiring moment when Jesus strides upon the turbulent waters to join His disciples amidst a raging storm. While this miracle often spotlights Peter's audacious venture onto the waves, our attention this Sunday turns to the prelude of Jesus' repose and the profound implications that rest holds for us as ardent followers of His teachings.

As we gather to worship this approaching weekend, I invite you to contemplate the multifaceted essence of rest in the context of your faith journey. Reflect upon the intentional repose you seek as a means of nurturing your spiritual connection, and also ponder the significance of the solace you extend to others in their own faith quests.

Let us collectively unravel the layers of meaning entwined within this narrative, drawing parallels between the tranquility Jesus embraced and the sanctity of rest that we, too, can incorporate into the tapestry of our lives. In this pursuit, may we uncover newfound perspectives on rejuvenation, empathy, and the boundless grace that emanates from moments of profound stillness.

Last Sunday

I mentioned during worship Amy-Jill Levine’s book. I’m copying a picture of her book below. It’s well worth a read if you are interested in studying more of Jesus short stories.

Adventure Camp at Fusion starting August 14th!

Camp @ the Fusion Family Center - August 14 - 18, 9:30 - 1:30

We have been invited to partner with several churches in Federal Way to put together a week of day camp for the children living at the Fusion Family Center, which is an emergency family shelter in Federal Way. There will be many opportunities to volunteer to donate/ prepare/serve food, lead a small group, donate/prepare craft items or help lead an activity station. More specific information to come but I wanted to get it on your radar and your calendar! It's a mission trip right in our own backyard!!

Please contact Michelle Thompson if you would like to know more or want to volunteer. md.thompson@earthlink.net

To learn more about Fusion, you can visit their website or use this link.

Last Saturday

Our church was a sponsor of a local Pride event supporting our siblings in Christ. It was fun to visit Wayside UCC and see our church’s logo supporting LGBTQI+ persons. Here’s a photo I took from the August 5th event.

Annual Conference report from Ann M.

The 150th Pacific Northwest Annual Conference (PNWAC) session took place in Tacoma and online June13th, 14th, & 15th, 2023. (There were zoom focus sessions, and a live streamed area opening in the weeks

beforehand as well.)

It’s been 4 years since we had an in-person Annual Conference session, so it’s been a while since I’ve given you a report!

First, as you probably know, we have a new bishop. His name is Bishop Cedrick Bridgeforth, and he is amazing. The theme he set for the Annual Conference season for the Greater Northwest Area (which includes Washington, Idaho, Oregon, & Alaska) was “Go and Do Likewise,” from the good Samaritan story in Luke 10: 30-37. In a series of messages beginning with his installation service on May 20th and ending with closing session on June 15th, Bishop Bridgeforth laid out a plan for ministry called MILE. He encouraged us to live it out by praying with our feet, healing with our words, and loving with our resources. He suggested our perspective depends on whether we are looking in a mirror or through a window. Looking in a mirror gives us a reflection of ourselves – a view of what’s familiar, and we see ourselves in relation to what is behind us. But a mirror blocks what is in front of us. Bishop Bridgeforth is encouraging us to look beyond the mirror, through the window, to see what is going on around and in front of us. He calls this “window work” versus “mirror talk.” He introduced the theme in the sermon at his installation service and opening of the Greater Northwest Area Annual Conference, and in each subsequent sermon, he stressed one of the letters in MILE. In the opening sermon for the Alaska Annual Conference, he explained that “M” is for Ministry that Matters, particularly in areas of housing and health. At the Oregon-Idaho Annual Conference opening, he explained that the “I” stands for Itineration and location. At the PNW conference opening, he told us that the “L” is for lay ministry enhancement. And, at the closing, he talked about the “E”, which is elimination of racism. I would love to tell you more, but instead I strongly suggest you go to these sermons and take a listen. There are some repeats between them, but it’s well worth listening anyway!

Here’s the link: https://pnwumc.org/ac2023/

There were 17 petitions passed, as well as many ministry reports received during the session. 12 of the petitions were administrative, including the closing of two churches in the conference: Pe Ell UMC, and East Wenatchee Trinity UMC.

One petition, titled “Solidarity with the Filipino People,” urges our elected leaders to support the Philippines Human Rights Act, and pledges to “educate our members of our congregations on the existing conditions of the Filipino people, monitor the ongoing human rights crisis” and “advocate for a just and lasting peace” for the Filipino people. If you are interested in finding out more, click on the link to the petitions that I will put in at the end of this report.

We passed 4 petitions related to reducing our carbon footprint. Two of them were split and passed in two parts, so I will tell you about 6. (If you look up the link to the petitions, you will not see the splits!)

1. Directing the conference treasurer’s office to send a letter to the Faith Foundation Northwest

requesting they divest its funds and all funds held in trust from fossil fuels.

2. Inviting local churches to do an internal review of church investments, and invites churches to consider divesting all funds from fossil fuels

3. By the end of 2023, local churches are invited to begin to build relationships outside their local churches to hear stories of new practices of environmental justice, to better understand the expertise developed by those with lived experience of environmental harms. Local churches are

also invited to prioritize partnerships with environmental and climate justice organizations led by Black, Indigenous, People of Color, Women, and Youth, as well as those serving low-income communities.

4. A petition directing the conference to come up with a job description, and begin the hiring process for a full time Creation Justice Liaison was referred to the connectional table for further work, with instructions for them to come back with a report to the next AC session.

5. A petition asking for the conference secretary to write up a petition for the General Conference 2024, asking for “fossil Fuels” to be added to the investment screens in Paragraph 717 of the UMC book of Discipline.

6. Finally, a petition inviting the Conference to pledge to achieve net-zero emissions by 2040, and encourages local churches to pledge to increase their energy efficiency by 50% by 2030.

Here is a link to the original petitions as they were submitted: https://pnwumc.org/ac2023/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/2023-Recommendations-revised-5-31-23.pdf

Ministry reports included more than I can list! (90 pages worth.) The link for these reports is here:

https://pnwumc.org/ac2023/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/2023-Reports-6-1-23.pdf

We had several worship opportunities, including a retirement ceremony, a memorial service, ordination, as well as opening and closing worship. There’s so much I didn’t list here, and I’m happy to provide more

information to anyone interested! See a video of our conference secretary Shirley DeLarme giving a summary of the session here: https://pnwumc.org/ac2023/report-of-the-annual-conference-secretary-pnwac23/

Please let me know if you have questions or want more information!

In Christ,

Ann Mayer. Lay Member of Annual Conference

I'm with the DJ

Daniel del Rosario August 4, 2023

This Sunday

Church friends and families,

I pray that you are all enjoying the lovely Pacific Northwest weather as we all venture into August together. We continue our sermon series this weekend as we study the teachings of Jesus in the Gospel of Matthew. If you would like to prepare for this weekend, the Scripture I’ll be preaching on is Matthew 14:13-21. Please remember that we will also be celebrating Holy Communion, for folks joining us online, please remember to have sacred elements ready after the sermon.

Last Sunday

I mentioned during worship Amy-Jill Levine’s book. I’m copying a picture of her book below. It’s well worth a read if you are interested in studying more of Jesus short stories.

Adventure Camp at Fusion

Camp @ the Fusion Family Center - August 14 - 18, 9:30 - 1:30

Please contact Michelle Thompson if you would like to know more or want to volunteer. md.thompson@earthlink.net

To learn more about Fusion, you can visit their website or use this link.

Coming up

A note from Steve Mayer -

It's time for the second annual Federal Way Pride Event. Federal Way United Methodist Church is once again a sponsor of this event which will be held Saturday, August 5th, 2023 at Wayside United Church of Christ. The hours are noon-9pm and you can come for as long or short as you like. Whether you are part of the LGBTQIA+ community or are an ally, we'd love to see you there.