I’m with the DJ

Church,

This Saturday we will host our 46th annual Holiday Fair. The fun starts at 9am.

Rock the knock video

We had a great trick or treating event on Saturday called Rock the Knock. Here is a quick 25 second video highlighting the fun and festivities. Click here to watch.

Community Engagement Survey

We would greatly appreciate it if you would take the time to fill our yearly Community Engagement Survey. This is a chance for us to listen and learn from you. In the survey, we will ask about sermons and topics that you would like to learn more about, how you get information from our church and more. Click here to fill out our quick survey.

If you haven't had the opportunity to fill out your commitment card for 2024, I invite you to do so. At our church, we believe that generosity manifests in five main ways: our prayers, presence, gifts, service, and witness. Ideally, each one of us participates in generosity in all five ways, recognizing that there are seasons in our lives when we may emphasize one or more of these over others. Rest assured, God honors all that we offer.

I’m with the DJ

Church,

Last night during our annual All Church Conference, our church members approved our governing structure to move from a Church Council model to a Single Board model that we are now calling Church Board. In addition, we approved a slate of leaders to fill the board. I’ll gladly share more news in the weeks to come and introduce you to the awesome leaders, many of whom you probably recognize/know.

In just a few days, we will host our annual indoor “Rock the Knock” trick or treating event at our church. I hope you come join us as we engage with our neighbors and community.

If you haven't had the opportunity to fill out your commitment card for 2024, I invite you to do so. At our church, we believe that generosity manifests in five main ways: our prayers, presence, gifts, service, and witness. Ideally, each one of us participates in generosity in all five ways, recognizing that there are seasons in our lives when we may emphasize one or more of these over others. Rest assured, God honors all that we offer.

I’m with the DJ

Church,

What a joy to welcome church members. Jenn and Tommy W. They started worshiping with us online and have recently begun attending in person.

Philip also became a part of our church family, and he brings with him a beautiful story of calling, love, and life.

If you haven't had the opportunity to fill out your commitment card for 2024, I invite you to do so. At our church, we believe that generosity manifests in five main ways: our prayers, presence, gifts, service, and witness. Ideally, each one of us participates in generosity in all five ways, recognizing that there are seasons in our lives when we may emphasize one or more of these over others. Rest assured, God honors all that we offer.

I recently read an article in the Seattle Times focusing on a family living out of their car. This article highlights the lives of working persons who experience homelessness. You can read the article here.

Riverton Park UMC

Last Sunday, I mentioned one of our sister churches Riverton Park UMC in the news. Here’s a link to the Seattle Times article I mentioned.

I’m with the DJ

Church family,

I hope and pray that you and your loved ones are doing well. This weekend marks an exciting time for us at Federal Way United Methodist Church as we welcome and covenant with three new church members. Jenn and Tommy W. will join us as new members, and we have the joy of meeting their son as well! They started worshiping with us online and have recently begun attending in person. Philip will also become a part of our church family, and he brings with him a beautiful story of calling, love, and life.

In addition to welcoming new members, we will continue our sermon series titled "Inspire Generosity" by delving deeper into the Gospel of Luke, chapter 19. In the first ten verses, we discover Zach's interaction with Jesus. I encourage you to read all of Chapter 18 and 19 in preparation for our worship time together.

If you haven't had the opportunity to fill out your commitment card for 2024, I invite you to do so. At our church, we believe that generosity manifests in five main ways: our prayers, presence, gifts, service, and witness. Ideally, each one of us participates in generosity in all five ways, recognizing that there are seasons in our lives when we may emphasize one or more of these over others. Rest assured, God honors all that we offer.

I eagerly anticipate seeing you either online or in person this weekend!

Riverton Park UMC

Last Sunday, I mentioned one of our sister churches Riverton Park UMC in the news. Here’s a link to the Seattle Times article I mentioned.

This Sunday, we will continue our dive into our Inspire Generosity series as we study Luke 14:28-33. We will also be taking a closer look at Discipleship through theologian and author Dietrich Bonhoeffer’s perspective from his book Discipleship.

Melinda Z’s memorial service

We have set the date for Melinda’s service for November 24th at 2pm.

Supporting our Hispanic Ministries

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

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

Animals are blessed

What a wonderful occasion we had last Sunday as we celebrated Holy Communion and followed it with a heartwarming blessing of the animals. I'm delighted to share a few cherished moments captured by Ken Free.

This Sunday, we will continue our dive into our Inspire Generosity series as we study Luke 14:28-33. We will also be taking a closer look at Discipleship through theologian and author Dietrich Bonhoeffer’s perspective from his book Discipleship.

Melinda Z’s memorial service

Once we finalize details regarding Melinda’s memorial service. We will share the news with you as soon as we are able to.

Generosity invitation for 2024

We want to convey our appreciation for your enduring support of Federal Way United Methodist Church (FWUMC). Your generosity holds immense significance in advancing our mission to spread God's love and serve our community, both locally and globally.

This past year of ministry has been a source of excitement and inspiration. After each service, individuals are invited to fill bags of food to support 16 families in need of sustenance over the weekends. While we previously supported 17 families, we celebrate that one family no longer requires assistance from our Food 4 Families program. Our connection with the Meredith Hill Elementary community remains a sacred privilege we've nurtured over time. Your support is truly inspiring.

Additionally, we joined forces with a local Lutheran church to offer an Adventure Camp for Fusion residents. Through this initiative, we provided children and their families with two daily meals, engaging activities, arts and crafts, reading sessions, and even a special "birthday party for everyone." A trauma specialist trained our volunteers to support families in need, contributing to their well-being. We're excitedly planning to offer this camp again next summer. I had a conversation with one parent who shared that her family, including three children, eagerly anticipated each day of the camp. This experience held significant value for them, and we later learned that their participation played a positive role in bringing them closer to permanent housing.

Will you reflect on how your contributions can further elevate our ministries and amplify our outreach endeavors. Our dedicated church leadership has crafted our 2024 budget, encompassing essential elements such as our devoted staff, critical building maintenance, and our unwavering commitment to the broader United Methodist Church.

If you click this link or the picture on this post you can digitally fill out our 2024 giving estimate e-card. We kindly request that you complete the digital card or we will be providing printed commitment cards during our worship services. You can place it in the offering plate, or submit it via email to generosity@fwumc.org by October 15th. This timeline ensures a thoughtful and accurate budget planning process as we express gratitude to God for our abundant blessings.

We anlso invite you to consider transitioning your pledge to online giving through fwumc.org/online-giving. This convenient platform provides a consistent means of expressing your generosity while supporting our budgeting efforts. If you require assistance in setting up online giving, please don't hesitate to reach out to us at generosity@fwumc.org.

Once again, thank you for joining us, as we nurture our mission within both local and global communities. Your support radiates Christ's love and propels us towards greater achievements in the name of our faith.

Sincerely,

Pastor DJ, Byron Osborn, Jan Franklin, and Ann Mayer

Generosity team

Abundant Grace update

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.

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

Pets are awesome

Last weeks membership class was a blast. Thank you to everyone who joined us. We will be celebrating and welcoming new members coming up during worship soon. This Sunday, we will celebrate Holy Communion and immediately after the service, we will be hosting a blessing of our animals in our courtyard area outside the church.

Generosity invitation for 2024

We want to convey our appreciation for your enduring support of Federal Way United Methodist Church (FWUMC). Your generosity holds immense significance in advancing our mission to spread God's love and serve our community, both locally and globally.

This past year of ministry has been a source of excitement and inspiration. After each service, individuals are invited to fill bags of food to support 16 families in need of sustenance over the weekends. While we previously supported 17 families, we celebrate that one family no longer requires assistance from our Food 4 Families program. Our connection with the Meredith Hill Elementary community remains a sacred privilege we've nurtured over time. Your support is truly inspiring.

Additionally, we joined forces with a local Lutheran church to offer an Adventure Camp for Fusion residents. Through this initiative, we provided children and their families with two daily meals, engaging activities, arts and crafts, reading sessions, and even a special "birthday party for everyone." A trauma specialist trained our volunteers to support families in need, contributing to their well-being. We're excitedly planning to offer this camp again next summer. I had a conversation with one parent who shared that her family, including three children, eagerly anticipated each day of the camp. This experience held significant value for them, and we later learned that their participation played a positive role in bringing them closer to permanent housing.

Will you reflect on how your contributions can further elevate our ministries and amplify our outreach endeavors. Our dedicated church leadership has crafted our 2024 budget, encompassing essential elements such as our devoted staff, critical building maintenance, and our unwavering commitment to the broader United Methodist Church.

If you click this link or the picture on this post you can digitally fill out our 2024 giving estimate e-card. We kindly request that you complete the digital card or we will be providing printed commitment cards during our worship services. You can place it in the offering plate, or submit it via email to generosity@fwumc.org by October 15th. This timeline ensures a thoughtful and accurate budget planning process as we express gratitude to God for our abundant blessings.

We anlso invite you to consider transitioning your pledge to online giving through fwumc.org/online-giving. This convenient platform provides a consistent means of expressing your generosity while supporting our budgeting efforts. If you require assistance in setting up online giving, please don't hesitate to reach out to us at generosity@fwumc.org.

Once again, thank you for joining us, as we nurture our mission within both local and global communities. Your support radiates Christ's love and propels us towards greater achievements in the name of our faith.

Sincerely,

Pastor DJ, Byron Osborn, Jan Franklin, and Ann Mayer

Generosity team

Abundant Grace update

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.

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

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

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

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.

I’m with the DJ

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

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

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.

I’m with the DJ

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.

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

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

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.

I’m with the DJ

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

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”