The Messenger April 2021 - "To Easter and Beyond"
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
the Messenger
April 2021
“To Easter and Beyond”
In 1995, our friend, Tim Allen, with the help of John celebrate Christ’s victory over death, the hope and
Lasseter, Tom Hanks, and the cast and crew of Toy peace that we receive in the resurrection of Jesus and
Story, introduced us to the expression, “To Infinity… the power of God to overcome anything in this world.
and Beyond!” as Buzz Lightyear entered our lives and And, at the same time, our focus during Lent is not just
the Toy Story franchise was born. This past summer, in about preparing for Easter. It’s about preparing and
our first ever all-virtual VBS, we met Anna Mechana, readying ourselves for what lies beyond the empty
EP3-20, and the crew of the StarShip Galaxian as we tomb, and beyond Easter Sunday. We ready ourselves
blasted off To Mars and Beyond on a whirlwind and grow not just to prepare for one day or even the
adventure through space and faith, learning how to next 40 days. It’s about our lives and how we prepare
“Go Beyond with Faith, Boldness, Kindness, for all that lies ahead, Beyond Easter. The story of
Thankfulness, and Hope.” Both of these stories came Easter, of life after death, was always meant to lead us
with images, and songs that help us to remember the to Easter and Beyond.
lessons and message behind them. And I don’t know
about you, but I really enjoyed both journeys a lot. So this year, in the season of Easter, we will consider, in
light of all that we have learned this Lent about being
This Lent, we too have been on a disciples, how we, and all people
journey, looking at what it made in God’s image, are
means to be a Disciple of Jesus. Created to Love. That’s the title
In worship and in small groups, of our Easter sermon series,
we have looked at scriptures and Created to Love. Love is not just
studied many of the concepts something we choose to do,
that John Wesley taught us though that’s critical to
about his understanding of the Wesleyan Way of remember. It’s also more than just a choice. Love is
Discipleship. We looked at what it means to what we were made to do. While we all have different
intentionally consider how Acts of Devotion, gifts, different strengths, and different areas for
Compassion, Justice, and Worship are a part of our lives, growth, we all were created to love, to love God, and
and how we can grow in the ways that we love God and love our neighbors.
love those whom God loves. And this Lenten journey
has had its own images and songs that have helped to No matter where we go in our faith journey, that idea
guide us and remind us of the lessons and messages of love keeps coming up. You can’t get away from it.
that are part of the General Rule of Discipleship and our And that’s a good thing. We were created by God, who
life as disciples. is love, to love. It’s my prayer that this Lenten season
has brought that truth to light for each of you. It is my
And here we are, in the midst of Holy Week, preparing prayer that the Easter season will water the seeds
for the lessons of Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, already planted, as we continue to grow in our faith, as
Easter Sunday and the Season of Easter, which lasts Disciples of Jesus. And it is my prayer that this summer,
until Pentecost, on May 23rd this year. In many ways, in VBS and our Faith In Action trips, in our gatherings in
this week is what Lent is all about. Our focus on person and online, and Beyond we will continue
discipleship has been building to this week, this growing together to love and serve Christ, our
moment. This week we remember all that Christ has neighbor, and our world.
taught us, and the sacrifice that Christ has made for
Grace and Peace,
you, me, humanity and all of creation. This week we Rev. Scott
BETHESDA UNITED METHODIST CHURCH ❖ BETHESDAUMC@WASHMOREFEET.ORG ❖ 301-652-2990
BUMC UPDATES
Pastoral Transition Hybrid Worship
As many of you know, the SPRC
recently announced that Rev. Jenny
Begins
is being appointed to serve a church Our Re-Entry Team anticipates moving
with her husband Rev. Kirkland into Stage 2B of our Re-Entry Plan
Reynolds in the Minnesota Annual sometime after Easter which will allow
Conference. Rev. Jenny’s last Sunday will be June 7th for the current level of small-group
and plans are underway for opportunities to say activities as well as indoor, in-person worship. In that
farewell. spirit, we plan to begin a hybrid form of Sunday
morning worship on April 25th at 10:00 am. The service
The Bishop and Cabinet are praying and discerning will continue to be live-streamed on our YouTube
about the next lead pastor to serve at BUMC and will channel each Sunday and will also include a limited
share that information with the SPRC and number of participants in the Sanctuary with social
congregation as soon as possible. Please continue to distance measures and masks required. Portions of the
keep our pastors, staff and congregation in prayer service will still be shown on video in the Sanctuary and
during this time of transition. there will be no live singing at this time. Registration
will open on Sunday April 18 th and will allow for sign
ups through May 30th (look for an email with the
Finance Corner registration link). At this time we ask that you register
Anyone who knows me knows that I for only one in-person worship service so that we can
am a big believer in saying “thank prioritize all who wish to attend. We will alert the
you”. It is always the right answer to congregation of any additional open worship slots each
let people know that you value them and are grateful week.
for what they have shared.
For those who prefer to worship online at this time,
I thank all of you for your steadfast faithfulness in there will be no changes to the worship experience and
sharing your gifts. As we prepare to return to in-person we will continue sending out our weekly bulletin and
worship, you have sustained us so we will return prayer list on Fridays. You can access the latest version
stronger and more vibrant that ever. Your giving has at washmorefeet.org/sundaybulletin.
also empowered us to hire a Director of Student
Please keep our staff, volunteers and Re-Entry Team in
Ministries. Even in the face of a pandemic, we have
found new ways to reach out to our community your prayers as we work hard to move safely through
this time and with gratitude for the opportunity for
working for justice and mercy. All of this happens only
more in-person activities.
because of your continuing financial support of our
ministries. Thank you!
BUMC
Peace,
Carl Eichenwald Scholarships
BUMC is awarding scholarships to
selected graduating high school seniors this spring.
3 Ways to Give The scholarships are awarded based on the student’s
participation in service activities, both church and
① Online: Go to washmorefeet.org/give community-wide. While the Scholarship Committee
will ask for a copy of the applicant's transcript, grades
② Text-to-Give: Text the amount of your donation
are not the primary criteria. Any high school senior
to 301-679-7266
who is actively involved with the church is encouraged
③ Mail a check to the church office to apply. The deadline is April 30th and the recipients
(8300 Old Georgetown Rd, Bethesda, MD 20814) will be announced on Graduate Recognition Sunday,
May 16th. If you’re interested in applying, email Dana
Thank you for your continued support and generosity! Sippel (dana@glassmanwealth.com) for a copy of the
application.
2
HOLY WEEK
Space is limited for Holy Week in-person services and pre-registration is required.
Please sign up here if you’d like to join us. Questions? Contact us at Bethesdaumc@washmorefeet.org.
More information is available on our website: washmorefeet.org/lent2021
Maundy Thursday, April 1st
6:00 pm: Tailgate Worship (In-person/Registration Closed)
Bring your dinner and join us in the parking lot for an outdoor, socially distanced
Maundy Thursday meal and worship service.
7:00 pm: Maundy Thursday Worship/Zoom (Online)
Tune in at washmorefeet.org/MaundyThursday for worship, followed by a Zoom conversation
(email BethesdaUMC@washmorefeet.org for the Zoom info.
________________________________________________________________________________
Good Friday, April 2nd
11:30 am - 12:30 pm & 5:00- 6:00 pm: Outdoor Prayer Stations
(In-person/No RSVP Needed)
Stop by the BUMC parking lot to participate in a time of prayer and reflection
through a set of interactive (contactless) prayer stations.
Please park in the north parking lot on Old Georgetown Rd and walk through the alleyway.
The entrance to the Huntington Pkwy lot will be closed to cars during the prayer station times.
7:00 pm: Good Friday Worship (Online)
Join us for a Stations of the Cross worship service featuring some familiar locations in our community
and lots of special music. Tune in at washmorefeet.org/GoodFriday.
________________________________________________________________________________
Easter Sunday, April 4th
We’re celebrating the resurrection with a combination of outdoor, in-person worship
and online worship. Each service will be similar in style and format
and include a blend of traditional and contemporary music.
The deadline to register for in-person Easter worship is Thursday, April 1st at 5:00 pm.
6:30 am In-person Worship (must RSVP)
8:30 am In-person Worship (must RSVP)
10:00 am Easter Worship (tune in at washmorefeet.org/EasterSunday)
11:00 am In-person Worship (Registration Closed/At Capacity)
Just for Kids
See page 7 for all the details on these special children’s activities.
Easter "I Spy" Easter Children’s Time
In lieu of our traditional Easter Egg Hunt, we invite all Join Rev. Jenny, Rev. Scott & Ms. Beth at 9:30 am on
families to stop by church during Easter weekend Easter Sunday for a special online celebration of
(Saturday, April 3rd, anytime, or Sunday, April 4th, Easter as we sing, dance and hear a special message.
1:00 pm - dusk) for our Easter “I Spy.” Contact Beth Reilly for the Zoom info
3
CONNECT
Coffee with Men’s Group
the Pastors The Men’s Group will be continuing with virtual
gatherings in April. For questions or the Zoom info,
New to BUMC? Maybe you’ve been
contact Jack Fisher.
around for a while and don’t really know that much
about our church other than what happens on Sunday Grille Gathering
morning. BUMC is a thriving community of faith and The Men’s Group is getting together for our
we’d love to get to know you better and talk about online breakfast gathering on Wednesday,
where you might fit into our ministries. If you’d like to April 7th at 6:45 am. Grab a cup of coffee and some
learn more, make plans to join us for a virtual Coffee breakfast and join the conversation.
with the Pastors on Sunday, April 11th at 11:00 am.
Contact Rev. Scott for the Zoom info. Evening Gathering
Join us for a time of discussion on Wednesday, April
21st at 8:00 pm on Zoom. All men are welcome!
Young Adult Group
Happy (Almost) Easter to you all! Hope
you’re doing well and enjoying the Women’s Ministry
sunshine and warmer temperatures! This month we’re
going to gather on Sunday, April 18th at 11:30 am (not Book Group
the 11th) for our monthly Online Brunch, which we hope Our group of readers will be gathering on
you’ll make plans to be a part of. During that time, Zoom on Wednesday, April 21st at 7:45 pm.
we’ll talk more about our spring and summer plans. We We’ll be discussing American Dirt by Jeanine
hope that you’ll bring your food and log on at 11:30 am Cummings. Please let Dawn Lowrie or Jill
on the 18th! We look forward to seeing you all there! Barr know if you would like to be part of this time of
fellowship and discussion. All are welcome!
Have a great start to Spring and a blessed Easter!
Rev. Scott and the Young Adult Council Trivia Night
(Laura, Matthew, Robert, and Joanna) Join us for a night of friendly
competition as we test our knowledge of random
information! Our women’s Virtual Trivia Night is taking
Grief Group place on Wednesday, April 28th at 7:00 pm. RSVP to
Our BUMC Grief Group will gather again on Susie Sabatano.
Monday, April 19th at 7:30 pm on Zoom. If
you (or someone you know) is moving Virtual Garden Tour
through the process of grief we welcome you to join us Got a green thumb? We’d love to see
for a time of connection, prayers and support. Rev. what’s growing in your garden this
Jenny for the Zoom info. spring! The BUMC women are planning a virtual
garden tour on Wednesday, May 5th at 6:30 pm. Just
send pictures or video of your garden to Susie
Blessing of the Sabatano and we’ll share them on our Zoom
gathering.
Animals
Sunday, April 25th at 4:00 pm
Bring your furry, scaly or shelled friends to join us
Prayer Calls
Join us every Tuesday and Thursday, 12:00 -
in Greenwich Park for our
12:30 pm, for a time of prayer. You are also
annual Blessing of the Animals Service
invited to be part of our Prayers with the Pastor on
as part of our celebration of God’s creation.
Wednesdays at noon. Let us know how we can be
This year space is limited, so please register in advance
praying for you. If you’d like to be part of either prayer
by clicking here to RSVP.
time, email Shaw Brewer for the Zoom link.
4
GROW: Adults
Sunday School Bible Study &
for Adults Small Group
BUMC has two Sunday morning Starting on Tuesday, April
th
options for adults to continue 20 , BUMC will begin a “Created to Love” Bible Study
learning and growing in their faith. All classes meet via and Small Group, paired with our “Created to Love”
Zoom and welcome new attendees at any time. sermon series, which begins on April 18 th. This study,
written by our annual conference and our bishop,
❖ Philosophy, Theology & Religion Bishop LaTrelle Easterling, invites us to draw in God’s
(PTR) Sundays @ 9:00 am sustaining breath as we come together into a rhythm
Our ever popular and long running PTR class, led by of renewal. Using scripture, reflection and music and
Don Ross, is studying the Qur’an (Koran). We are drawing on the UMC Social Principles, this study
exploring the Qur’an through its central theme of invites us to consider how we are created for one
prophecy. Following this thread will enable us to purpose above all others—To Love.
investigate satellite themes that revolve around that
central one. When we finish covering what the Qur’an Our small group will meet Tuesday nights , 7:30 pm,
has to say about Islam’s 25 prophets, we will open the April 20th - June 1st. We will start meeting via Zoom
floor to any other themes that members of the class with the possibility of shifting to a hybrid (in person
would like to have covered. Contact Don Ross for the and online) format if conditions and interest allow.
Zoom info and come stretch your mind with us! Please email Rev. Jenny or Rev. Scott for more
information or to sign up.
❖ Beyond: Sundays at 11:00 am
This month, after taking a week off for Easter Sunday,
we’ll spend April 11th looking at the response of the
Disciples to Easter, from John 20. Then, on April 18 th, A Disciple’s
Beyond will embark on a deeper look at the scriptures
from our sermon series “Created to Love,” which was Path
developed by our Annual Conference. We look forward Prayers, presence, gifts,
to looking at these scriptures that examine the service, and witness...this is what we commit to when
connection we have with creation and the way each of we become members of The United Methodist Church,
us was created for one purpose above all others—to and it’s a big step. Whether you are new to BUMC or a
love. long-time member, A Disciple’s Path will help us look
beyond membership, presenting an engaging
If you’re interested in digging deeper into some of the approach to Christian discipleship from a distinctly
other concepts that make up the Created to Love Wesleyan perspective.
sermon series, we invite you to consider also being
part of our Bible Study and Small Group that will be Building on our study of discipleship during the season
meeting on Tuesday nights starting on April 18th (see of Lent, this study invites you to consider how each of
adjacent column). us seeks to live into the commitments of our baptismal
covenant.
Beyond is an open Sunday School class that meets
each Sunday morning at 11:00 am via Zoom, to We hope you will join us for this 6-week study
discuss the scripture and theme of the day, and the beginning Tuesday, April 20th at 7:30 p.m. running
ways we can take these words and thoughts Beyond through May 25th. We will start meeting via zoom
this time and place and into our lives and our world. with the possibility of shifting to a hybrid (in person
For more info or the Zoom link, Please email Jack and online) format if conditions and interest allow.
Fisher or bethesdaumc@washmorefeet.org. Please email Rev. Jenny or Rev. Scott for more
information or to RSVP.
5
GROW: Youth
Happy April and spring to you all! Our Faith in Action Trips
thanks to everyone who has been part
Now is the time to sign up for our summer
of our on-going activities throughout
Faith In Action Trips. SSL hours are
the year and especially this past winter.
available for participants. Please contact Rev. Scott or
It has been so much fun to get outdoors
Gunnar at youth@washmorefeet.org if you want to
and enjoy more warmth and sunshine
sign up or have any questions. Please put FIA or Faith
with you all. We are taking a break from our Sunday
In Action in the subject line of your email!
gatherings on April 4th as we celebrate Easter, and pray
that you’ll enjoy that time with loved ones celebrating June 27 - July 2:
signs of new life, where ever you are.
Mission as Faith and Justice
MS and HS Time: Starting on April 11th, the MS and HS Manidokan Camp & Retreat Center
youth will have a discussion about small groups and (Rising 6th Graders - Graduating Seniors)
what a difference they can make as we seek to grow in Sign up for this adventure-based camp to get a taste of
our faith. Then on April 18th, we will all begin Habits, a Mission as Faith and Justice. Campers will have the
five-week series designed to help students develop opportunity to complete 16-20 hours of hands-on
spiritual habits that will connect them with God and mission projects around the topics of housing, food
grow their faith. The idea of connecting with a God we scarcity, our environment, and systemic racism, with
can’t see in front of us is certainly abstract for many of plans for on and off-site projects based on COVID
us. That’s why walking through concrete examples that safety. Ziplining, rafting, water games and campfire
we can put into practice will help us grow in cooking will also be a part of the week. Small group
understanding and practicing these spiritual habits as a time will help campers process why/how we as
part of the everyday faith we’re developing. We hope Christians serve others and what that has to do with
you’ll be part of these times in person and online in April faithful living. BUMC high schoolers that attend will
thru Mid-May. serve as Team Leaders! Middle Schoolers can sign up
UMYF: This month, we’re gonna spend a bit more time here. High Schoolers should contact Rev. Scott.
outside, starting on Sunday April 11 th, with a game of
Laser Tag all around BUMC in the evening (taking
July 11-17:
advantage of later sunlight). Then on the 18th, we’ll plan Home Repair in Wilmington, DE
to meet at noon at Carderock, for lunch and discussion (Rising 9th Graders - Graduating Seniors)
before heading out on a hike along the C&O Canal Trail. High schooler are invited to join us the week of July 11-
We’ll close out the month on the 25th, with an online 17 to serve those in need through home repair and
gathering and some virtual games and fellowship time. community service. To ensure flexibility given the
uncertainties around COVID-19 and travel this summer,
See your Youth Ministry Update for more info we've registered for Group’s Mission Trip to
throughout the month and stay tuned for the new Wilmington, DE. All high school youth, including next
Zoom link, as we’ll be switching zoom links again to fall's rising 9th graders through recent graduates up to
help keep our community safe in our online gatherings. 20 years of age are welcome to attend (friends are
Have a great April and we hope to see you soon! welcome, too!). We'll monitor public health guidance
Grace and peace, and adjust our plans if travel is not recommended. To
Rev. Scott and the Youth Ministry Committee (Callie, sign up, contact Gunnar Gunnarsson.
Caroline, Holly, J.D., Lucy, Alex Cougar, Gunnar & Dave)
YOUTH CALENDAR
Date MS/HS Time UMYF
4/ 4 No Sunday School No UMYF
4/11 (in-person); 5:30-7:30 pm All About Small Groups Outdoor games (laser tag)
4/18 (in-person); noon-2:00 pm Habits (week 1) Hiking at Carderock
4/25 (online); 6:00 pm Habits (week 2) Virtual Games
6
GROW: Children
Easter "I SPY" Get Ready for VBS:
We invite all families to head over to the
church during Easter weekend, June 21-25
Saturday April 3rd (anytime) and There are two ways to participate in
Sunday, April 4th (1:00 pm till dusk), to participate in a VBS this summer as we set sail for our
game of I SPY! In lieu of our traditional Easter Egg Discovery on Adventure Island in a
Hunt, come out and see if you can find all the eggs, the Quest for God’s Great Light!
jumping bunnies, the Easter messages, the Easter ① We are offering an In-Person Family VBS option,
cross and much, much more! Look for an email with which will take place outside with social distancing
the I SPY handout which you can print out and bring measures in place. Children must wear masks and be
with you to the church (we’ll also have extras in a folder accompanied by at least one parent. There are two
near the office door), along with writing utensils, times for you to choose from:
clipboards and, of course, masks. Please park in the
north parking lot off Old Georgetown Rd. We invite + 5:30 - 6:30 pm (with optional bring-your-own picnic
you to walk through the alley and around the at 5:00 pm) OR
Huntington Parkway parking lot as you try to find all + 7:00 - 8:00 pm
the I SPY items on the handout. Many thanks to Emily Families will experience VBS together in a designated
Cevallos for her work on this! space in our parking lot. Music, Bible stories, crafts and
recreation will be enjoyed throughout the week. You
Easter Children’s Time have the option of joining for all or part of the week.
Join Rev. Jenny and Rev. Scott on our Zoom call on ② We are also planning a Virtual VBS with videos
Easter morning at 9:30 am, as we sing, dance and available for viewing at any time during the week.
hear a special message. Will our pastors be able to find
the special Easter messages displayed on our I SPY REGISTRATION DATES:
eggs? Tune in to find out! Email Beth Reilly for the
Zoom info. This event will take the place of our April 12-18
Children's Time, which normally meets at 11:00 am. Registration opens for all volunteers & their families.
April 19 at 7:00 pm
Children’s Time Registration goes live for BUMC families. Register for
in-person option or the virtual option. Look for an
(Sunday School & More!) email at 6:00 pm that day with the registration link.
Children (preschool - 5th grade) are invited to be part
of BUMC’s Children's Time on Sundays at 11:00 am May 3
(unless noted otherwise) on Zoom. For more details or Registration opens to the community
the Zoom information, contact Beth Reilly. Here’s our
schedule for the month: We are asking for a donation of $10 per child/ $20 per
family ($5.00 for each extra T-shirt). Registration will
Easter Sunday, April 4th at 9:30 am include craft supplies, a CD and a T-shirt.
Children's Easter Greetings - Join the pastors for a
special time of singing, dancing and an Easter
Message. No Children's Time at 11:00 am. Coming in May
th
Sunday, April 11 : Zoom Sunday School Mark your calendars now
The Great Commission, Matthew 28: 16-20 for these special events!
Sunday, April 18th: Mystery Sunday Saturday, May 15th @ 6:30 pm
Prayer Chain with Ms. Laura Outdoor Movie Night: Coco
Sunday, April 25th: Sunday School Sunday, May 16th @ 11:00 am: VBS Greatest Hits
PreK-3 on Zoom @ 11:00 am Dance Party with Anna Bandana
4th & 5th Grade In-Person @ 12:00 pm Sunday, May 23rd @ 11:00 am: Teacher Appreciation;
Choosing the Seven, Acts 6: 1-7 Last Children’s Time until September
7
SERVE
Outreach, Advocacy & Action (OAA) is looking forward
to continuing a very busy and productive year among BUMC Acts Fund
all of our outreach and service areas. Please join us as "God says, I will pour out my Spirit
we seek ways to support our community and tackle on all people. Your children will
the challenges we all face these days. If you are prophesy. Your young will see
looking for ways to contribute, we encourage you to visions. Your elders will dream dreams."
join one of our meetings or contact chairs, Shannon Please join BUMC's OAA by participating in the first
Snypp and Susan Bender. Our next meeting is annual BUMC Acts Fund! We are soliciting proposals
Thursday, April 8th at 7:30 pm - all are welcome! for service or outreach efforts from ALL church
A Statement of Support for AAPI Communities members and will select several winners to provide
BUMC stands against hate and racism anywhere and grants and help make these proposals a reality. Do
supports the Asian American community during the you have an idea for a service project that you'd love
escalating wave of intolerance and attacks perpetrated to see come to fruition? Perhaps you've always
against them. According to PBS, as overall hate crimes wanted to build a garden at BUMC and donate the
fell in 2020, hate crimes against Asian Americans in food to local shelters? Help pay for a service trip for
major U.S. cities grew nearly 150 percent. Since the youth or a trip for church members to visit a civil rights
early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, the group Stop museum in the south? Donate to a passion cause that
AAPI Hate has recorded at least 3,795 reported serves the local community? OAA is welcoming
incidents of hate against Asian American and Pacific proposals that encourage service or support to
Islanders. Please see https://stopaapihate.org/ for initiatives covered by our ministries: Racial Justice,
additional details on how you can support their Foster Care, Gun Violence Prevention, and Creation
important efforts. Care. We look forward to hearing from you about
what you're passionate about!
Hunger & Feeding Ministries Here are the details:
By the end of this year, more than 50 million people ❖ Proposals will be accepted March 1st - May 1st.
could experience food insecurity, according to Feeding
America. That’s one in six Americans and one in four ❖ Your proposal should include what you would like
children—nearly a 50 percent increase from 2019. The to see happen with a grant and how this project will
pandemic has laid bare how many people are one help you serve God in the community; why you have
paycheck or medical bill away from hunger. felt led to this project; and the amount that you are
seeking.
To help combat this issue on a local ❖ We will award several grants. Please note that one
level, BUMC is continuing our Mission grant will be dedicated to a proposal from BUMC's
Monday collections on the first Monday youth.
of every month. You are invited to stop
by the Huntington Pkwy lot on Monday, April 5th, 8:30 ❖ Grant recipients will be announced by OAA during
-10:00 am, to drop off individually wrapped worship on May 30, 2021.
sandwiches and baggies of trail mix for McKenna’s If you have any questions or to submit a proposal,
Wagon and non-perishable food for Bethesda Help. please contact Shannon Snypp or Susan Bender.
Sandwiches and trail mix should be packed in plastic or
paper bags and labeled with the contents. For a list of
Bethesda Help’s most needed items, click here.
Mission Calendar
BUMC's Lenten Calendar embraced the theme of "A
Finally, you may have noticed that A Little Food Servant's Heart" and offered 40 days of opportunities
Pantry has been installed near the church offices on to learn more about ways to participate in service
Huntington Pkwy. This pantry was built and will be opportunities, as well as support organizations close to
supported by a local Scout. This pantry provides items our ministries. If you didn’t have a chance to check out
that anyone can take as needed. Feel free to the calendar during Lent, we invite you to download a
contribute non-perishable food to the pantry copy now and use it as a resource for ways that you can
throughout the month. put your faith in action during Eastertide.
8
SERVE
Racial Justice Ministry Gun Violence
BUMC's Racial Justice Ministry continues to explore the
criminal justice system in America. This month, we'll Prevention
continue looking at how the criminal justice system has In recent days we’ve heard sad news
evolved over the past forty years and how it has of two horrific mass shootings: one near Atlanta that
disproportionately impacted minority members of killed 8 people, 6 of whom were Asian-Americans, and
society, as well as discussing ways we can advocate for one in a supermarket in Boulder, Colorado that killed
change on a local and a national level. All are welcome! 10 people—that’s 18 lives in less than a week. All
children of God. One hundred lives are lost on average
every single day to gun violence here in the US. It is
Racial Justice Witness
frustrating that our country seems unable to take
Come be part of our weekly Racial Justice Witness
action to curtail the violence—firearms are the leading
outside BUMC on Sundays. We’ll gather on April 4th
cause of death for American children and teens
(Easter Sunday) from 4:00-5:00 pm before moving to
(Everytown Against Gun Violence). We must not give
our summer schedule (5:00-6:00 pm) for the rest of
up—abolition of slavery, the civil rights movement—
the month. Please wear a mask and maintain social
these struggles took many years, and the faith
distancing. Feel free to bring your own sign or we have
community led the way.
some extras if you prefer.
Two books that help explain America’s gun violence
Just Mercy Screening through a Christian lens are Beating Guns: Hope for
& Discussion People Who Are Weary of Violence by Shane Claiborne,
You are invited to join us on Thursday, a book we read together at BUMC a year or two ago,
April 29th for a group viewing of Just and Collateral Damage: Changing the Conversation
Mercy (available on Netflix) at 6:00 pm, About Firearms and Faith by James Atwood. Both
followed by a discussion starting at 8:30 pm on the books are very readable and thought-provoking.
themes of the movie, especially looking at the
incarceration of minorities in America. If you’ve seen Fear is a theme that clearly resonates throughout the
the film before (or read the book) you’re welcome to gun debate. Some believe guns protect them from
just join us for the discussion time. We'll also learn what they fear. Others believe the guns themselves are
more about the Equal Justice Initiative and the work to be feared. Fear often leads to violence. The Bible
they are doing. BUMC's OAA is donating to this says repeatedly “fear not.” Jesus told us that “perfect
important cause - please come learn more about it. love drives out fear.” 1 John 4:18. Perhaps we can
RSVP to BethesdaUMC@washmorefeet.org. meditate on this and share with our friends and family.
And hopefully even agree on some steps that can save
March in Review…Jubilee Jobs lives.
Last month, BUMC hosted a Zoom session with
Vincent Van of Jubilee Jobs to discuss how we, as a Please contact Susan Bender to sign up for BUMC’s
church community, could support the work of this GVP Ministry email list and consider signing up for
organization and others in assisting and facilitating the Gifford’s e-newsletters. Giffords has many members
reentry into society for individuals recently released who are gun owners but who support reasonable
from prison. If you weren’t able to join us and would regulations on firearms. Everytown/Moms Demand
like to learn more, contact the church office for the Action, Brady, and Marylanders to Prevent Gun Violence
video link to the recording. also have great resources on their websites.
Spotlight On: School Resource Officers
BUMC member Tara Davoodi recently published an op- Foster Care Ministry
ed in Walt Whitman High School’s newspaper “The BUMC is collecting gift cards to support youth who are
Black and White” on the impact of School Resource transitioning out of the Foster Care System. If you
Officers in high schools and how to lobby locally on this would like to help, please consider purchasing Giant
issue. You can check out her article here. gift cards, Target gift cards, or Gas cards. Contact
Congratulations to Tara for this incredible article and Shannon Snypp for more info.
her passion for advocacy on issues that matter.
9
CHURCH WORKS
How is God Calling You?
Have you ever wondered what it takes to run a church? A church is the body of Christ here on earth and
lay people are the heart of that body! Lay people serve on committees and on our Church Council to run
our church and church programs. Lay people work alongside our staff to create and oversee our budget,
manage and maintain our physical infrastructure, enhance and plan our weekly and seasonal worship
activities, provide human resources and staff support, plan and develop educational and Sunday School activities, and
create and administer our outreach programs which allow us to serve out into our community and world.
Every year we look for volunteers to fill the needs of our committees and Church Council. You may have seen over the
past few weeks we have been highlighting our various areas of service within the church. We’d like you to see where
you see yourself serving here at BUMC. Do you have a background in accounting, billing, bookkeeping, or finance?
Perhaps you might consider being on our Finance Committee. Do you work in project management or have a
background in human resources? Perhaps you might consider being on the Staff Parish Relations Committee (SPRC).
Do you have a background in construction or maintenance, or just want to see our church property looking its best?
Consider volunteering to serve on Trustees. Do you have children or youth and want to help to guide their spiritual
growth and exploration? How about volunteering for our Education Committee positions? Do you love music, art, or
the seasons of worship? Consider being a volunteer on the Worship Committee.
We have openings on all of our current committees that we hope to fill by June 30 th when our next terms begin.
Please prayerfully consider how God might be calling you to serve this year and feel free to reach out to me or any of
our leaders listed below.
Lay Leadership Committee co-chair: Debbie Reed-Gillette
Contact information for our leaders is available on our online database, Breeze. Let us know if you help getting started
using this useful resource, which gives you access to our directory and also your personal contact and giving information.
GROW (Children, Youth and Adult Education) CHURCH COUNCIL: Mike Moran
Beth Reilly (Children)
Rev Scott (Youth) OPERATIONS
Laura Sim (Children) Finance: Warrenetta Baker
Janine Gregory (Adult) Stewardship: Pat Kirwan & Karen Kirwan
Treasurer: Heidi Hanson
SERVE (All of our Outreach Committees) Trustees: Riley Williams
Susan Bender SPRC: Liz Helke & John Euler
Shannon Snypp
COMMUNICATIONS: Alison Chacon
WORSHIP (All Worship Ministries & Worship Volunteers)
Sue O’Hara ANNUAL CONFERENCE REPRESENTATIVES
Bill Allman Shaw Brewer
Bob Gillette
BUMC Directory Update
It’s time to update the BUMC Directory! We have a new pastor arriving this summer and he or she will be
using the directory to put faces to names. There are a number of people who don’t have a picture in the
directory and many others who have outdated pictures, especially families with children. If you haven’t
sent us a picture in the last year or so, it would be great to have a new one! We are hoping to schedule several picture
days later this spring, but in the meantime, if you have a recent photo of you and/or your family that you could send
us, we would appreciate it (if you are a Breeze user, feel free to update the photo yourself—contact Kris in the office if
you’d like to learn how). Please send your pictures to communications@washmorefeet.org. Thanks!
10CHURCH WORKS
Church Council Chatter
A little more than a year ago, on March 9, 2020, the BUMC Church Council held the last in-person
meeting before the building was shut down in response to the Coronavirus pandemic. In reviewing
the minutes from that meeting, I note that we heard about plans for a baseball outing to Nats Park, a
Laser Tag Youth Group event, a potentially transformational meeting of the UMC General
Conference, the Maundy Thursday meal and service, and so much more. Two days later, all of those events were
cancelled or postponed indefinitely as the world went on lockdown.
And yet, do you remember where you were just a few days later on Sunday, March 15 th at 10:00 am? If you were like
me and many others from our faith community, you were watching Rev. Jenny and Rev. Scott welcome us to worship
via YouTube and listening to Chris play the organ and Max sing. Yes, it was virtual, and the sanctuary was empty, but
there we were, as usual, in worship together.
In spite of all of the challenges, we have had services to attend every Sunday since. Some in-person, but mostly virtual.
We have heard sermons and children’s stories, and music performed by the Praise Band, the Choir, and dozens of
special performances by our gifted friends from the congregation. Holy Week worship happened! We celebrated the
resurrection and were treated to a wondrous solo-in-4-parts version of the “Hallelujah Chorus.” We’ve had prayer
gatherings, Hymn Sings, Mid-Week Meditations and Evensong. Advent and Christmas were as joyful as ever. Thanks
to the imagination and talent of our pastors, staff and tech volunteers, we have remained connected in a very real and
meaningful way. When you have some time, I recommend that you take a tour through the church’s YouTube channel
(@BethesdaUMCMD) and see what the team was able to accomplish over the last year.
The business of the Church Council and committees has continued as well. Using Zoom we meet monthly and do our
work to steward the church’s building, financial resources and program ministries. I am so grateful for the efforts of
our volunteer leadership and their efforts in keeping our church moving forward.
We are beginning a slow transition back to normal. You can read more on page 2 about our Re-entry Team’s plan to
resume in-person services in the Sanctuary on April 25th. There will be limitations on the activities and the number of
people who may attend, but we’ll be back in the building. We will continue to provide virtual access for those who
prefer to worship from home.
In this season of renewal, I give thanks for our many, many blessings.
Peace, Mike Moran
Shred Event Easter Monday
& Food Drive Food Donations
Bring any documents Monday, April 4th, 8:30-10:00 am
that need to be securely disposed of to a
Bethesda Help Food Drive
free drive-up shred event at BUMC on
We are collecting donations of canned and other non-perishable
Saturday, April 17th, 9:00 am - noon.
food for Bethesda Help. For info about what items are especially
BUMC member and local realtor, Lisa
needed, click here.
Clarke, is sponsoring the event and all are
welcome to come by. Lisa is also McKenna’s Wagon
collecting non-perishable food donations Baggies of trail mix and individually wrapped
for Nourish Now. Be sure to wear a mask sandwiches are needed. Place your items in a
and practice social distancing. paper or plastic bag or box, labeled with the type
and quantity. Contact Nancy or Bruce Smith.
11Journeying
Through Lent…
Pandemic Style
12FOOTWASHER OF THE MONTH: David King
BUMC is a community of footwashers and this monthly feature highlights people in our church family who are serving in a
variety of ministries, either here at BUMC or out in the community. This month, we hear from David King who has served in a
number of leadership roles here at BUMC over the years.
How long have you and your family been attending BUMC and how did you initially get
connected here?
David: I moved to the Washington DC area from California in the late 1990s, and attended
several different churches in DC and Maryland. In 2002, when I met Amy, I learned that she
attended BUMC (at least when her parents were in town!). So, we started attending. I
immediately fell in love with everything that BUMC was and represented. From the greeters,
to the pastors, and the interesting notion of “Wash More Feet” and its implications for social
justice, it all resonated with us. We were married at BUMC in 2004 by Rev. Ron, and now, two baptisms and a
confirmation later, here we are!
What role did faith play in your life growing up? As parents of two boys, Dylan and Cameron, how have you and
Amy worked to instill faith into your family life.
David: As the son of a US Army officer, my family relocated extensively and we attended multiple churches and
denominations, as we moved around the country and the world. Wherever we were, though, it was important to find
a local spiritual connection. My extended family is rooted in the Church of God in Christ, an African-American
Pentecostal denomination, where my grandfather was a pastor. So, I think my faith today is really a reflection of
varied experiences and cultural influence that I have grown up with. As parents, we have been thrilled to have our sons
grow up and spend their formative years in such a nurturing church, from the nursery through their high school years.
This year it was wonderful to watch our oldest son Cameron go through “pandemic Confirmation” led by Rev. Scott
and the staff, and to see his own faith grow and mature.
Several years ago, you were part of a steering committee that helped guide BUMC through a discernment
process about joining the Reconciling Ministries Network (RMN). Why was being part of that process important
to you? What are your hopes and prayers for our denomination as discussion around the full inclusion of
LGBTQIA+ persons in the church has been postponed once again?
David: In 2014, I was asked to participate in the initial discernment process to determine if we would join the RMN. I
was honored to work on the committee with some of the most thoughtful individuals I have ever met, to prayerfully
walk the congregation through the difficult emotional and theological issues associated with being a more welcoming
congregation to our fellow LGBTQIA+ pilgrims. While we did not take the ultimate step of joining the RMN (editor’s
note: BUMC did eventually vote to join the RMN in October 2019), I was heartened by the process, which was loving and
respectful of our diversity of views. I was also proud of having played the smallest part in the drafting of the Welcoming
Statement that we still have today. I believe it clearly reflects who we are as a Christian community and who we aspire
to be.
I continue to be saddened by the schism that has divided our denomination over the full inclusion of LGMTQIA+
persons in the United Methodist Church. A division that eerily reflects and parallels the sociopolitical fracturing that
our country has suffered. I hope and pray that God’s grace and healing may come to both our church and country. And
just as our denomination was once able to stay united and begin healing after the racial divide, I hope that the same
may occur when the denomination meets to chart a path forward. However, I am resolute in my belief that God’s
grace extends to all children and that, as our Welcoming Statement says, we “welcome everyone who wishes to join
us as we strive to order our lives in the way of the footwasher, Jesus Christ.”
Outreach and service to others have been a cornerstone of your time at BUMC. Can you share a few highlights
from your work as former chair of our Outreach and Advocacy Committee (now OAA)?
David: By far, the most rewarding thing I have done at BUMC was the time I have spent on the Outreach and Advocacy
Committee. When I joined, I was shocked at the number of organizations and ministries that BUMC supports through
the committee, and the impact that they have had on our neighborhood, country and the world. The members of the
committee are some of the most dedicated and wonderful people I have ever worked with. OAA continues to work on
Continued on p. 14
13MEMBERSHIP UPDATES
Births Featured Footwasher (cont’d from p. 13)
Love and blessings to: all of the issues that make BUMC the “Wash More Feet”
Glenda & Artley Simon on the birth of a congregation that we are. From Racial Justice to Gun Violence
granddaughter, Aria Elizabeth, on February Prevention, refugee family support to bikes for children in
23rd. Vietnam, OAA amazingly puts Christ’s words into action. If any
member of the church has a passion for social justice, I would
Don & Patty Ross on the birth of a
granddaughter on March 4th. encourage you to join and support OAA in their many endeavors.
You currently serve as chair of Bethesda Cares. Tell us a little
about the work that this organization does and how you first
April Celebrations got involved.
Happy Birthday David: While working on OAA, I was introduced to Bethesda
4th Sylva McCulloh, Andrew Mitchell, Cares by my friend and mentor, the amazing Barbara Hilberg,
Jack Rogstad, Gail Trost who served on the Board of Directors at the time. Bethesda Cares
5th Mary Catherine Carr, Neil Gregory, is a non-profit organization that works to prevent, ease and,
Jenna Kronenberg, Kirkland Reynolds most importantly, end homelessness in Montgomery County.
6th Charlotte Kirwan Over the years, BUMC has supported Bethesda Cares through
7th Blair Reeves, Shawn Russell financing, volunteerism, the Welcome Home ministry, and a
10th Sarah Early Shower Program that allowed Bethesda Cares’ homeless clients
11th Thomas Tanman to come to BUMC to take a hot shower and get a meal. I was
12th Eric Quam fortunate enough to join Barbara on the Board of Directors at
13th Julian Dahiya Bethesda Cares and have been honored to serve as President for
15th Leslie Ponder, Carl Sansbury, the past two years. Through the efforts of their staff, volunteers,
Kenneth Wesley, and partners, like BUMC, Bethesda Cares has grown to become a
Henry Whitaker leader within the County in providing housing and services for
17th Annabella Ortiz the homeless and those in need. Just like OAA, I’m astounded by
18th Beth Reilly, Patty Ross, the impact that the dedicated staff and volunteers at Bethesda
Chloe Schwartz, Wendy Whitaker Cares have made county-wide and beyond.
19th Sue Andrews
How does your faith inform your work with the vulnerable
20th Elizabeth Gnanaselvam, Martin Kulik,
population served by Bethesda Cares? Are there ways that
Lyla Smith
members of the BUMC community can volunteer?
22nd Emily Mae DeBernardis, Benjamin La
David: In a recent sermon, Rev. Jenny spoke on the Parable of
23rd Allison Lazare
The Sheep and the Goats (Matthew 25), in which Jesus said “I tell
24th Will Browning, Grace Smith
you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these
25th Bob Gillette, Laura Sim
brothers of mine, you did for me,” referring to all those that are
27th Antonio Zabel
hungry, thirsty, poor or in need. I believe our Church’s support for
28th Michael DeBernardis, Jeff Diamond,
Bethesda Cares, and my own small contribution, are examples of
Mary Catherine Gillette
the tangible support that Christ requires us to provide to our
29th Elizabeth Sansbury
neighbors desperately in need.
30th Marilyn Wilkins
Bethesda Cares was formed just over 30 years ago, when
members of Bethesda’s faith community came together with the
Happy Anniversary desire to address the growing homelessness problem. To this
Date # of Years day, it still relies on the contributions from the faith & donor
Lynn & Mike Koenig 7th 20 communities and the efforts of our tremendous volunteers, like
Liz & Joel Helke 12th 13 our own Liz Helke and Janet Edmonds. There are many ways in
Kathryn & Andrew Weiland 25th 12 which the BUMC community can contribute or volunteer, from
the meal programs to street outreach. I would encourage anyone
who desires to help with homelessness to contact them
(bethesdacares.org).
14April 2021
Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday
1 Maundy Thursday 2 Good Friday 3
12:00 pm Prayer Call 11:30 am Prayer Children’s Easter I Spy
6:00 pm Tailgate Worship Stations (throughout the day)
7:00 pm Online Worship 5:00 pm Prayer
& Zoom Conversation Stations
7:00 pm Online
Worship
4 Easter Sunday 5 6 7 8 9 10
6:30 am In-person Office closed 12:00 pm Prayer Call 6:45 am Men’s Breakfast 12:00 pm Prayer Call
Worship 8:30 am Sandwich/ 7:00 pm Sanctuary Choir
8:30 am In-person Worship Trail Mix Collection & 7:30 pm OAA Meeting
9:30 am Children’s Time Bethesda Help Food Drive 8:00 pm Praise Band
10:00 am Online Worship 7:30 pm Bethesda Bells
11:00 am In-person Worship
1:00 pm Easter I Spy (thru dusk)
4:00 pm Racial Justice Witness
11 12 13 14 15 16 17
9:00 am PTR 1:00 pm BBLT 12:00 pm Prayer Call 12:00 pm Prayers with 12:00 pm Prayer Call 9:00 am Shred Event
10:00 am Online Worship 7:30 pm Bethesda Bells the Pastor 7:00 pm Sanctuary Choir & Food Drive
11:00 am Coffee with the Pastors 7:30 pm Church Council 8:00 pm Praise Band
11:00 am Children’s Time VBS Registration Begins
11:00 am Beyond for Volunteers &
5:00 pm Racial Justice Witness Their Families
5:30 pm Sunday Night Youth
18 19 20 21 22 23 24
9:00 am PTR 1:00 pm BBLT 12:00 pm Prayer Call 12:00 pm Prayers with 12:00 pm Prayer Call
10:00 am Online Worship 7:30 pm Grief Group 7:30 pm “Created to the Pastor 7:00 pm Sanctuary Choir
11:00 am Children’s Time 7:30 pm Bethesda Bells Love” Study 7:45 pm Women’s Book Grp 8:00 pm Praise Band
11:00 am Beyond 7:30 pm “A Disciple’s 8:00 pm Men’s Group
11:30 am Young Adult Brunch VBS Registration Begins Path” Study
12:00 pm Youth Group For BUMC Families
5:00 pm Racial Justice Witness
25 26 27 28 29 30
9:00 am PTR 1:00 pm BBLT 12:00 pm Prayer Call 12:00 pm Prayers with 12:00 pm Prayer Call Deadline to apply for
10:00 am Hybrid 7:30 pm Bethesda Bells 7:30 pm “Created to the Pastor 6:00 pm Just Mercy a BUMC Scholarship
Worship Love” Study 7:00 pm Women’s Trivia Viewing
11:00 am Children’s Time 7:30 pm “A Disciple’s Night 8:30 pm Just Mercy
11:00 am Beyond Path” Study Discussion
12:00 pm 4th & 5th Graders 7:00 pm Sanctuary Choir
4:00 pm Blessing of the Animals 8:00 pm Praise Band
5:00 pm Racial Justice Witness
6:00 pm Sunday Night Youththe Messenger
Bethesda United Methodist Church
8300 Old Georgetown Road
Bethesda, MD 20814
301-652-2990
Bethesdaumc@washmorefeet.org
www.washmorefeet.org
@BethesdaUMCmd
Contact Us
April Highlights
www.washmorefeet.org Good Friday
301-652-2990 Online Worship at 7:00 pm
Lead Pastor: Rev. Jenny Cannon washmorefeet.org/GoodFriday
jenny@washmorefeet.org
Associate Pastor: Rev. Scott Bostic Easter Sunday
scott@washmorefeet.org Online Worship at 10:00 am
Music Ministry washmorefeet.org/Easter
Chris Warrington (Director): chris@washmorefeet.org
Max Nolin (Choir Conductor): max@washmorefeet.org Hybrid Worship
Christian Education In-Person (limited numbers) & Online
Beth Reilly: beth@washmorefeet.org Begins Sunday, April 25th
Communications RSVP required (see p. 2 for more info)
Alison Chacon: alison@washmorefeet.org
Administrative Assistant Discipleship Opportunities
Kris Hoxha: kris@washmorefeet.org Tuesdays at 7:30 pm beginning April 20th
(see p. 5 for details on two new studies)You can also read
