February 1-7, 2023
On this last day of January 2023, I offer a short reading from the book Return to the Root: Reflections on the Inner Life by Joyce Rupp (2021 Sorin Books). This excerpt comes from a longer reflection titled “Worthwhile Resolutions” and is based on Psalm 139… “Holy One, you created me in my mother’s womb. […]
Read postTHIS WEEK @ FMC – January 25-31, 2023
Pastor-Congregation Review. Appreciative Inquiry. You’ve been hearing and/or reading those words more often recently as we approach the beginning of our “Appreciative Inquiry Pastor-Congregation Review” process. What exactly does that mean for you, and for us as a congregation? As I’ve come to understand it, a pastor-congregation review is an opportunity to assess and evaluate […]
Read postTHIS WEEK @ FMC – January 18-24, 2023
“Never forget the covenant which you voluntarily accepted … Remember that you are risen with Christ Jesus into … the life which is taught by the Gospel.” (Menno Simons – Admonition on Church Discipline) These words are written in rather small cursive script at the very top of a fraktur (according to Wikipedia a fraktur […]
Read postTHIS WEEK @ FMC – January 11-17, 2023
“True evangelical faith … cannot lie dormant” This past Sunday Pastor Jim read for us the entire quote by Menno Simons to help us enter into the worship and sermon series we have begun on the Gospel of Matthew. In case it went by you too quickly during the sermon, I’ve copied it below for […]
Read postTHIS WEEK @ FMC – January 4-10, 2023
“Think of the year as a house: door flung wide in welcome…” So begins a beautiful Epiphany prayer written by author, poet, artist Jan Richardson (find more of her work at www.paintedprayerbook.com). I love this invitation and the blessing she has written to unpack the metaphor and invitation even further. The Year as a House: […]
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