Monday - January 17, 2011
Weekly Meditation
My preaching professor in seminary was Dr. William B. McClain. Dr. McClain is a wonderful preacher and he often transfigured his lectures into sermons. One thing I remember about Dr. McClain was his casual references to his friend Martin. Dr. McClain was a friend and associate of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and was with him on August 28, 1963 when Dr. King gave his “I Have A Dream” speech. Dr. McClain also shared with us one of King’s secrets to a great message: start with the conclusion and work backwards from there.
Another thing I remember from Dr. McClain was his direction to always preach God’s grace. He said it is okay to speak against sin and to call for repentance, but preachers of the Gospel must always proclaim the Good News that God’s grace is greater than our sin.
So, as we remember Dr. King and the many obstacles we must still overcome as we seek justice and righteousness, I want you to hear the Good News: “Christ died for while we were yet sinners. This proves God’s love toward us. In the name of Jesus Christ, you are forgiven!”
Pastor Stephen
This Week in Worship: Sunday, January 23, 2011
Third Sunday after the Epiphany
Human Relations Sunday
Andrew Greenwood preaching
Choir Anthem: Shine, Jesus, Shine
New Member Class
Have you been attending Providence-Fort Washington for a while as a visitor or constituent? Would you like to be more involved? Are you looking for new ways to serve Christ? Are you just curious about the church and want someone to answer your questions? Are you hearing God’s voice calling to you?
If you answered yes to any of these questions, then the New Member Class is for you. I will be starting a new member class on Sunday, January 30, 2011 at 9:00 in the parlor. The class meets for 3 weeks and we will discuss the wider Christian church, the United Methodist Church and Providence-Fort Washington. Participants will then be invited to join the church on Sunday, February 27th.
Please see Pastor Stephen for more information or to sign up.
Wednesday Bible Study
The Wednesday Evening Bible Study gathers at 6:00 pm for a potluck dinner and for Bible Study at 6:30.The lessons for the Third Sunday after the Epiphany are:
Isaiah 9:1-4; Psalm 27:1, 4-9; 1 Corinthians 1:10-18; Matthew 4:12-23
Snow Policy
In general Providence-Fort Washington follows the Prince George’s School system
(If schools are closed then the church is also closed)
If there is an exception, people in the affected groups will be called.
Also check the website (www.pfwumc.org) for updates!
Administrative Council Meeting
Reminder: The Administrative Council will meet this Thursday at 7:00 p.m.
United Methodist Men Gathering
The United Methodist Men will gather for breakfast and a planning meeting on
Saturday, January 22 at 9:00 a.m. in the Fellowship Hall
New Sermon Book Available
Pastor Stephen has just published the 2009-2010 Sermon Book. It contains all the sermons since the First Sunday in Advent 2009. Cost is $12.00.
Pastor Stephen has copies for sale.
It can also be ordered on-line at www.lulu.com/banquo
“The Lord is my light and my salvation;
whom shall I fear?.” (Psalm 27:1)
Blessings,
Pastor Stephen
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