the bridge

the future of the bridge

2011-01-20T18:05:00.000-08:00

As you all know, the bridge is a group that meets at santa monica fumc for many years. We have been a young adult bible study that has focused on study, fellowship and service. And since 2006 we have been a self-led group, led by the bridge leadership team (the bLT).

When the bLT first formed, we agreed to check in periodically with the bridge members to make sure things were running smoothly and that people were happy. We decided it was time to have a formal meeting to address a few concerns. A group of bridge members met with the bridge leadership team late last year to discuss how the bLT is doing and how, if at all, the bridge needs to change in the future.

The consensus was that we are happy with the way that the bridge is going and we are happy with the content of the bridge. We are proud of being a self led team and pleased that we have been able to keep it going through many changes over the years and continue to give members the “study, fellowship and service” that is the core of our group. We don’t feel a need to change anything in the basic Wednesday night agenda or with our non-Wednesday social/service calendar. Not that we aren’t always looking for suggestions and comments, but that even though we recognize that we aren’t perfect, we feel good about the status quo.

However, there is a concern that the perception of the church as a whole, of the composition of our group is different than the actual make up of members at this time, specifically with reference to age. We are no longer the “young adult” group. This has become an issue over the past year with new members coming and not feeling that this group is what they have been led to expect in terms of age.

Also, we worry that we are perhaps not reaching out to prospective members who may feel that they are “too old” for the bridge when in reality they are close to the age of many of the current members. It was determined at the beginning of the bridge, as a self led group, that the bridge would grow older, along with its members. We took a vote and decided that we still want to stick to that decision.

So the bridge, has decided to transition from a “young adult group” to an “adult group.”

That being said, no existing members will be kicked out of the group, and any new faces will always be welcomed, regardless of their age.

After much discussion the following items were agreed upon:

We will remove the words “post college age” from our mission statement so that it now reads “the bridge consists of adults gathering for the purpose of Spiritual Growth; recognizing Spiritual Growth as encompassing elements of study, fellowship, and service. We are an active part of the First United Methodist Church of Santa Monica. We value diversity in the group while gathering around our commonality in relationship to Christ.”

Although we are now targeting a different age group (mid 20s to early 40s), we resolve not to become a clique and will not turn people away based on age, whether older or younger than the current demographic. We will always be welcoming, but we want to change our marketing.

There seems to be more and more younger people coming to the bridge for one or two meetings and not coming back due to the age difference. Therefore, we think there is a need in the church for a younger group that would target of ages 21-30. We do not think it is the bridge’s responsibility to start this group. However, we remember how hard it was to start our own group so we would like to assist the church in getting it started. To that end, we are going to host a BBQ at the church geared toward getting to know the “young adults” who are looking for a group and help get them talking. We picked a date of Saturday, February 26, 2011. If you would like to help out in any way, please let a bLT member know.

For those members of the current group that feel like they want to be part of the new group, please do as you feel led. We hope to offer our experience and advice to the group, to help it get started, but we have no intention of imposing any of our ideas or expectations. So, if you have found yourself not coming to the bridge because you want something else besides the bridge, another format, different activities, whatever, we will not take offence if you would rather become part of the new group. You can be in both groups of course :)

Please start alerting anyone you know who would be interested in coming to the BBQ. They don’t have to commit to anything, this is just an afternoon to talk and outline wants and needs. We will be creating a public facebook event, so keep an eye out for that.

Please let us know if you have any questions, concerns or comments.

Thanks,
The bLT

PS: We are sending this email out to our entire contact list, as it is a special email that we want to go to all of our contacts, not just the people on the weekly email list. We apologize if you have no interest in recieving this email. And, if you want to be removed from our contact list entirely, please let us know and we will do so!

Welcome!

2010-12-23T12:52:00.000-08:00

This blog is now mainly used for our Google calendar of events.

For more information about what's happening with the bridge these days, visit our Facebook Page.

15 June 2010

2010-06-17T18:00:00.001-07:00

Coming up -

- Tuesday, June 15 - David is graduating tonight! Come to cheer him on at the commencement ceremony. The ceremony begins at 6 pm, Corsair Field, Santa Monica College. If you sign up on facebook Sarah will save you a seat in the stands: http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=129008500461791

- Wednesday, June 16 -Last week, Sarah H. led us in a great discussion of our spiritual gifts. She will continue the discussion this Wednesday. Take at look at this website for a good test and description of the gifts: http://www.umc.org/site/c.lwL4KnN1LtH/b.1355371/k.9501/Spiritual_Gifts.htm
For more info this link is a good resource as well: http://buildingchurch.net/g2s-d.htm

- Sunday, June 20 - COFFEE HOUR DATE CHANGE!!! Per the request of another church group, the Bridge is sponsoring coffee hour following the 10 am service at the First United Methodist Church THIS UPCOMING SUNDAY. Please drop off your edible donations by 9:45 am in the church kitchen so that we can get everything set up (cookies, crackers & cheese, veggies, fruit, etc.). If you are able to help set up... great! Please arrive around 9:45 am.

- Sunday, June 20 - Robert will be Commissioned at the 4 pm worship service at the University of Redlands Chapel. All are welcome to attend the service and show our support.

- Sunday, July 25 - Dane will represent the bridge during the FUMC Church service and share a bit about our ministry with the congregation.

- Sunday, August 22nd - Disneyland Day! This is the date that we plan to redeem our vouchers to Disneyland from making blankets for Disney's "Give a Day Get a Disney Day". Even if you didn't do the service project, you are welcome to come too, so mark your calendar.

Have a great week,

The bLT

7 June 2010

2010-06-08T07:21:00.000-07:00

Coming up -

- Wednesday, June 9 - Sarah H. is facilitating during the month of June. She has some great stuff planned!

- Tuesday, June 15 - David is graduating! Everyone is welcome to cheer him on at the commencement ceremony. The ceremony begins at 6 pm, Corsair Field, Santa Monica College. Sarah H. will be saving some seats in the stands, so give her a call when you arrive and she will direct you to where she is sitting.

- Sunday, June 20 - Robert will be Commissioned at the 4 pm worship service at the University of Redlands Chapel. All are welcome to attend the service and show our support.

- Sunday, June 27 - The Bridge is sponsoring coffee hour following the 10 am service at the First United Methodist Church. We will provide more details soon as to when to arrive and what to bring.

- Sunday, July 25 - Dane will represent the bridge during the FUMC Church service and share a bit about our ministry with the congregation.

- Sunday, August 22nd - Disneyland Day! This is the date that we plan to redeem our vouchers to Disneyland from making blankets for Disney's "Give a Day Get a Disney Day". Even if you didn't do the service project, you are welcome to come too, so mark your calendar.

Have a great week,

The bLT

24 May 2010

2010-05-24T05:06:00.000-07:00

Coming up -

- Wednesday, May 26 - Sarah S. will lead the last discussion in her series of "The Seven Deadly Sins". You won't want to miss this Wednesday!

- Sunday, August 22nd - Disneyland Day! This is the date that we plan to redeem our vouchers to Disneyland from making blankets for Disney's "Give a Day Get a Disney Day". Even if you didn't do the service project, you are welcome to come too, so mark your calendar.

Best wishes,

The bLT

17 May 2010

2010-05-17T20:14:00.000-07:00

Last week -

- THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU to everyone who helped to make our yearly fundraiser a success!! The BBQ went very well. Thanks for baking cookies, grilling burgers, and making yourself available to serve on Sunday. A big thank you to all who donated as well.

Coming up -

- Wednesday, May 12 - Sarah S. will continue to lead a study of "The Seven Deadly Sins". Last week was very interesting, so join us Wednesday for more.

- Sunday, August 22nd - Disneyland Day! This is the date that we plan to redeem our vouchers to Disneyland from making blankets for Disney's "Give a Day Get a Disney Day". Even if you didn't do the service project, you are welcome to come too, so mark your calendar!

Hope you have a great week,

The bLT

4 May 2010

2010-05-04T20:27:00.000-07:00

Last week -

- Last Wednesday Dane wrapped up our discussion of the book of Revelation. Thank you Dane for an insightful and interesting month of discussion!

- Big Sunday Weekend volunteering was a success! We pulled non-native weeds to restore a portion of the Ballona Wetlands. A big "Thank You" to Shannon for working out all of the details for us.

Coming up -

- Wednesday, May 5 - Game Night... feel free to bring a Cinco de Mayo themed snack!

- Saturday, May 8 - Santa Monica Festival - Join us at 12:00 noon in Santa Monica's Clover Park for lunch and a fun afternoon at the free annual festival.

http://www.facebook.com/l/9be6b;arts.santa-monica.org/events/SantaMonicaFestival.html

http://www.facebook.com/l/9be6b;www.nbclosangeles.com/feast/Santa-Monica-Festival-2010-92461209.html

- Wednesday, May 12 - During the month of May, Sarah S. will lead us in a discussion of "The Seven Deadly Sins".

- May 16 - Bridge hosted All-Church BBQ - Get out your favorite homemade cookie recipe! More details to come.

The bLT

27 April 2010

2010-05-01T21:38:00.000-07:00

Last week -

- Dane led us last Wednesday in another great discussion of the book of Revelation.

- Thank you to everyone who helped to make the Spring Retreat such a great success. From leading worship to prepping food to setting up tents, we couldn't have done it without you!

A special thanks to those who loaned us their camping gear. You are welcome to pick it up anytime from the bridge room. If you are not able to pick your gear up and would like it delivered, please contact Erin.

Coming up -

- Wednesday, April 28 - Dane will continue to facilitate a Bible study covering the book of Revelation. Join us!

- Saturday, May 1 - Clean up the Ballona Wetlands for Big Sunday Weekend from 8:30 am to 12:30 pm. Volunteers will be "weeding, planting native plants, watering and cleaning debris from the sensitive habitat area". More volunteers would be great. People who responded through the group poll are already signed up. Please contact Shannon ASAP if you have not signed up but would like to participate.

- May 8 - Santa Monica Festival - Join us at 12:00 noon in Santa Monica's Clover Park for lunch and a fun afternoon at the free annual festival. This event is great for kids too.

- May 16 - Bridge hosted All-Church BBQ - Get out your favorite homemade cookie recipe! More details to come.

We wish all of you a wonderful week,

The bLT

19 April 2010

2010-04-19T20:02:00.001-07:00

Last week -

- Dane led us last Wednesday in an interesting and insightful discussion of the first few chapters of the book of Revelation.

- The FUMC All-Church picnic at Will Rogers Park was fun! The great weather, a picnic lunch, bocce ball and a hike made for the perfect afternoon.

Coming up -

- Wednesday, April 21 - Dane will continue to facilitate a Bible study covering the book of Revelation. Join us!

- Wednesday, April 21 - Last day to sign up for the Spring Retreat! Sign up on the facebook event page by changing Your RSVP status to "Attending".

Please bring your retreat payment of $30 to Doug.

Bring your tents, sleeping bags, air mats and camp chairs to the Bridge Room by this Wednesday as well. Thanks!

- April 23-25 - Spring Retreat at Point Mugu - http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=410854241678

An email detailing the weekend will soon go out to all who signed up for the retreat.

May 1 and 2 - Big Sunday Weekend - Thanks to everyone who voted. Our volunteer activity will be announced soon.

May 8 - Bridge social event - Santa Monica Festival - Join us at 12:00 noon in Santa Monica's Clover Park for lunch and a fun afternoon at the free annual festival. This event is great for kids too.

May 16 - Bridge hosted All-Church BBQ - Get out your favorite homemade cookie recipe! More details to come soon.

- We still have our very own Bridge stainless steel water bottles for sale! If you don't have one or if you would like another, there are still a few left. $18 each. Ask any bLT member. Pick one up before the retreat!

We wish all of you a super week! :)

The bLT

13 April 2010

2010-04-13T20:11:00.000-07:00

Last week -

- Thanks to everyone who signed up to help out with the Spring Retreat! The planning meeting on Sunday went very well.

Coming up -

- Wednesday, April 14 - Dane is facilitating a book of the Bible this month. Join us for a great discussion.

- Sunday, April 18 - FUMC All-Church picnic at Will Rogers Park, around 12:00 noon, following the regular church service. Bring your picnic blanket and lunch.

- Wednesday, April 21 - Last day to sign up for the Spring Retreat! Sign up on the facebook event page by changing Your RSVP status to "Attending": http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=410854241678

- April 23-25 - Spring Retreat at Point Mugu - http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=410854241678

We are gathering camping gear and supplies. Bring your tents, sleeping bags, air mats and camp chairs to the Bridge Room by Wednesday, April 21.

May 1 and 2 - Big Sunday Weekend - Put in your vote for our volunteer activity and date at these two Doodle polls (as soon as possible, please):
Use the other dates sent to you at your personal email!! They are the only ones that work:)

May 8 - Bridge social event - Santa Monica Festival - Join us at 12:00 noon in Santa Monica's Clover Park for lunch and a fun afternoon at the free annual festival.

May 16 - Bridge hosted All-Church BBQ - Get out your favorite homemade cookie recipe! More details to come soon.

- We still have our very own Bridge stainless steel water bottles for sale! If you don't have one or if you would like another, there are still a few left. $18 each. Ask any bLT member. Pick one up before the retreat!

- The updated contact list went out earlier today via email to everyone who sent in their updated contact information. If you updated your information and still did not receive the new list, just let us know.

We wish all of you a wonderful week! :)

The bLT

6 April 2010

2010-04-07T07:41:00.001-07:00

Last week -

Thanks to Rachel for leading us during the month of March in another successful movie study!

Easter morning was fun! We celebrated together with a potluck style breakfast/brunch. Thanks to everyone who brought something delicious to share.

Coming up -

- Wednesday, April 7 - Game night!

- The following Wednesdays of this month will be facilitated by Dane. :)

- Sunday, April 11 - Planning meeting for the Spring Retreat following the 10 am Church service. Anyone is welcome to attend.

- April 23-25 - Spring Retreat at Point Mugu! Take a look at the facebook event page for more information and to sign up: http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=410854241678

- Thanks to everyone who signed up so far to help out with the Spring Retreat! Keep the goodness coming! Let us know BY THIS WEEKEND if you would like to help out with any of these things. Our planning meeting is this upcoming Sunday.

To sign up, just write on the wall of the Spring Retreat facebook event page: http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=410854241678

1. Camping gear (round up and return needed gear for the group)

2. Food (planning, purchasing, preparation and service)

3. Games and activities (collect gear and/or plan a couple of fun Saturday afternoon activities i.e. bocce ball or hiking)

Spiritual Program leaders: the bLT will provide a general theme for the weekend and the leaders of each segment can take it from there:

4. Friday evening (plan and lead a short prayer or devotional and music - 45 min.)

5. Saturday morning devotional: Rachel

6. Saturday evening devotional: Noel

7. Sunday morning devotional: Chris

8. Music to go with evening Spiritual Programs (guitar? singing?)

Sarah H. is our retreat coordinator. If you have any questions at all, please feel free to contact her or any other blt members (Doug, Heather, Erin).

May 1 and 2 - Big Sunday Weekend

May 16 - Bridge hosted All-Church BBQ

- We still have our very own Bridge stainless steel water bottles for sale! If you don't have one or if you would like another, there are still a few left. $18 each. Ask any bLT member. Pick one up before the retreat!

The bLT

30 March 2010

2010-03-30T20:52:00.000-07:00

- This upcoming Wednesday, March 30 - Rachel is leading us in a movie study during the month of March. This week we will continue our discussion of "The Truman Show". Everyone is welcome to come and join in on the discussion!

- Holy Week and Easter - FUMC is hosting several services this upcoming week in honor of the days leading up to Easter. Check out the FUMC eSentinel for more details: http://www.facebook.com/l/2600c;www.santamonicaumc.org/esentinel/esentinelonline.html

Maundy Thursday service - Thursday, April 1, 7:30 pm - FUMC Sanctuary
Good Friday service - Friday, April 2, 12:10 pm - FUMC Sanctuary
Easter Sunday Sunrise Service - Sunday, April 4, 6:30 am - Palisades Park (Santa Monica Blvd. and Ocean Ave.)
Easter Worship - Sunday, April 4, 10:00 am - FUMC Sanctuary

- Sunday, April 4 - bridge Easter Breakfast/Brunch - Join us for a breakfast/brunch potluck between the Sunrise Service and Easter Worship. Check out the facebook event page to sign up and find more info: http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=106673459362391

- April 23-25 - Spring Retreat at Point Mugu! - Take a look at the facebook event page for more information and to sign up: http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=410854241678

- We need your help to make the Spring Retreat a success! If you have skills to share, we would love your help putting everything together. To see the list and to sign up go to the Spring Retreat facebook event page: http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=410854241678 Thank You!

- Sunday, April 11 - Spring Retreat planning meeting, following the 10 am church service.

- We still have our very own Bridge stainless steel water bottles for sale! If you don't have one or if you would like another, there are still a few left. $18 each. Ask any bLT member. Pick one up before the retreat!

Happy Holy Week!

The bLT

22 March 2010

2010-03-22T18:44:00.000-07:00

- Wednesday, March 24 - Rachel is leading us in a movie study during the month of March. This week we will discuss "The Truman Show". Even if you didn't see the film, you are still welcome to come and join in on the discussion!

- Sunday, April 4 - Easter Sunday - Thank you to everyone who voted. The bridge will celebrate Easter together this year with a breakfast potluck following the FUMC sunrise service. The service begins at 6:30 am in Palisades Park. The potluck will follow the service in the bridge room at the Church. More information to come.

- April 23-25 - Spring Retreat at Point Mugu! Take a look at the facebook event page for more information and to sign up: http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=410854241678

- We need your help to make the Spring Retreat a success! You are not obligated to sign up for anything, but we would love your help if you feel inclined. You can sign up as an individual or as a team for any of these needs. To sign up, just write on the wall of the Spring Retreat facebook event page: http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=410854241678 Thank You!

1. Camping gear (round up and return needed gear for the group)

2. Food (planning, purchasing, preparation and service)

3. Games and activities (collect gear and/or plan a couple of fun Saturday afternoon activities i.e. bocce ball or hiking)

Spiritual Program leaders: the bLT will provide a general theme for the weekend and the leaders of each segment can take it from there:

4. Friday evening (plan and lead a short prayer or devotional and music - 45 min.)

5. Saturday morning (plan and lead a devotional / quiet time - 60 min.)

6. Saturday evening (plan and lead a devotional and music - 90 min.)

7. Sunday morning (plan and lead a devotional / quiet time - 60 min.)

8. Music to go with evening Spiritual Programs (guitar? singing?)

All of the volunteers will get together for a planning meeting after Church on Sunday, April 11. Please plan on attending if you are able. If you want to volunteer for any of the above items, but can't make it to the planning meeting, please still volunteer and we will help you with any coordination items that arise from the meeting.

Sarah H. is our retreat coordinator. If you have any questions at all, please feel free to contact her or any other blt members (Doug, Heather, Erin).

- We still have our very own Bridge stainless steel water bottles for sale! If you don't have one or if you would like another, there are still a few left. $18 each. Ask any bLT member. Pick one up before the retreat!

The bLT

15 March 2010

2010-03-16T20:53:00.000-07:00

News for this week...

- Rachel is leading us in a movie study during the month of March. We started watching "The Truman Show" last Wednesday (if you weren't there, you missed out on some great popcorn!). Stay tuned for the second half this Wednesday, March 17. It is also St. Patrick's Day, so don't forget to wear a bit 'o green!

- Sunday, April 4 - Easter Sunday - Each year, the bridge celebrates Easter with a potluck in the bridge room following the Easter service. FUMC is offering two Easter services this year: a sunrise service at 6:30 am in Palisades Park and a regular service at 10 am in the Sanctuary. You are welcome to attend both.

WE NEED YOUR VOTE! Would you rather celebrate Easter with a breakfast potluck after the sunrise service (around 8:00 am) or would you rather celebrate with a lunch potluck after the regular service (around 11:30 am)? Voting ends Saturday, March 20.

VOTE HERE: http://doodle.com/6vd5z8ryimt434q6

- April 23-25 - Spring Retreat at Point Mugu! This will be a great opportunity to camp, hike, enjoy the beach, the scenery and each other's company. More details and a facebook event page to come.

- We still have our very own Bridge stainless steel water bottles for sale! If you don't have one or if you would like another, there are still a few left. $18 each. Ask any bLT member. Pick one up before the retreat!

- We will be updating birthdays on the bridge blog calendar shortly. It will only contain the birthdays of people who responded "yes" with their updated contact info. If you use this calendar as a birthday reference for people who are no longer active bridge members, be sure to record their birthdays to your personal calendars before they are removed.

The bLT

8 March 2010

2010-03-08T22:27:00.001-08:00

Last week...

Whale watching was a huge success! Those who made the trek to Rancho Palos Verdes were able to see several whales and many more dolphins in spite of the wet weather.

Did I mention that Don Antonio's serves up a delicious $1 taco?

Coming up...

- This Wednesday, March 10 - Rachel will lead us in a study of the movie "The Truman Show". You won't want to miss it!

- Sunday, April 4 at 6:30 am - This year, FUMC is hosting an Easter Sunday sunrise service in Palisades Park. There is a need for volunteers to help with a variety of things (i.e. setting up to greet attendees, pick up things to bring from the church beforehand, someone to play guitar, etc.). If you are interested in helping in any way, please contact Camille.

- The weekend of April 23-25 - Put it on your calendars! The date for the Spring Retreat is set. We have reservations to camp at Point Mugu, right along the coast. This will be a great opportunity to camp, hike, enjoy the beach, the scenery and each other's company.

The bLT

1 March 2010

2010-03-02T21:53:00.000-08:00

Last week...

Thank you to Kellie for leading us during the month of February on "Love". Last Wednesday we learned about our love languages and how to better show love to others. Try the online quiz here: http://www.facebook.com/l/71d53;www.5lovelanguages.com/assessments/

Coming up...

- This Wednesday, March 3 - Game Night - We plan to play a few games and then take advantage of Taco Wednesday at Don Antonio's. You are welcome to meet us in the bridge room for just games if you don't feel like tacos. Bring a little moolah if you plan to go for tacos afterward.
http://www.facebook.com/l/71d53;maps.google.com/places/us/ca/los-angeles/w-pico-blvd/11755/-don-antonio's?gl=us

- During the month of March - Rachel will lead us in a study of the movie "The Truman Show". You won't want to miss it!

- Whale Watching this upcoming Saturday, March 6!! This is an all-day event in Rancho Palos Verdes; feel free to attend as much or as little as you want, but keep in mind the bridge will be there between 2 and 6. There will be food vendors, but you are welcome to bring your own picnic dinner and snacks.

Parking information can be found at the following http://www.facebook.com/l/71d53;url:http://losserenos.org/woad.htm Please arrange your own carpooling and hope to see you there.

Here is the link to the facebook page for this event: http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=296115447093&index=1

Visit the "Whale of a Day Celebration" website for more information: http://www.facebook.com/l/71d53;losserenos.org/woad.htm

- Sunday, April 4 at 6:30 am - This year, FUMC is hosting an Easter Sunday sunrise service in Palisades Park. There is a need for volunteers to help with a variety of things (i.e. setting up to greet attendees, pick up things to bring from the church beforehand, someone to play guitar, etc.). If you are interested in helping in any way please contact Camille.

- The weekend of April 23-25 - Put it on your calendars! The date for the Spring Retreat is set. We have reservations to camp at Point Mugu, right along the coast. This will be a great opportunity to camp, hike, enjoy the beach, the scenery and each other's company.

- Thank you to everyone who sent in updates for the bridge Contact List. If you did not send in your updates, please do so as soon as possible. If you prefer to not be included on the list just let us know.

- Remember to pay Shannon $10 for your fabric if you are making blankets for Binky Patrol. The second time for tying blankets and watching movies will be announced later.

Hope that you have a great first week of March!

The bLT

22 February 2010

2010-02-22T19:39:00.000-08:00

Last week...

- The service in the Chapel last Wednesday was a great way for us to begin the season of Lent.

- A fun group turned out for lunch at Islands and glow in the dark mini-golf on Saturday afternoon.

Coming up...

- This upcoming Wednesday, February 24 - Kellie will continue to lead the discussion on "Love". This is the last study of the month, so you'll want to be there!

- During the month of March - Rachel will lead us in a study of the movie "The Truman Show".

- Saturday, March 6 - The bridge plans to take a trip to St. Vincent's Point in Palos Verdes for an afternoon of whale watching, picnicking and taking in the sunset.

- If you are making blankets for Binky Patrol, plan to meet at least twice to tie them. The first potential meeting time is 1pm on Sunday, February 28 in the bridge room. Please contact Sarah or Shannon if you can be there.

- Thank you to everyone who sent in updates for the bridge Contact List. If you did not send in your updates, please do so as soon as possible. If you prefer to not be included on the list just let us know.

- Anyone is welcome to include prayer requests in the weekly bridge email. Send an email or facebook message to the bLT and we will gladly include your prayers.

The bLT

16 February 2010

2010-02-21T19:45:00.001-08:00

Greetings!

- Last Wednesday, Kellie led us in a lively discussion and gave us a look into the meaning of "Love". Be sure to make it to the remaining Wednesdays this month for a continuation of the discussion.

- Christoph's concert last Saturday was fantastic. There was a great turnout for the concert and we had plenty of help with the fundraising part. Thank you to everyone who helped!

Looking ahead...

- This upcoming Wednesday, February 17 - Ash Wednesday services in the FUMC Chapel will be held at 12:15 pm and at 7:30 pm. Come and join the Bridge at the 7:30 pm service. We plan to meet in the Bridge room beforehand and then reconvene afterward for discussion and fellowship.

- Saturday, February 20 - We plan to meet at the Howard Hughes Center "The Bridge". Lunch is at 12:30 pm and we will follow that up with a round of Mini Golf to start around 1:30-2 pm. We recommend carpooling to this event.

- Saturday, March 6 - We will take a trip to St. Vincent's Point in Palos Verdes for an afternoon of whale watching, picnicking and taking in the sunset.

- During the month of March - Rachel will lead us in a movie study.

The bLT

Week of 10/Feb/2010: Bridge update

2010-02-11T19:59:00.001-08:00

Hello everyone!

- Last Wednesday's game night was full of laughs, drawing skills and good cookies!

And coming up...

- This upcoming Wednesday, February 10 - Kellie, our very own love guru, will lead us in a study of "Love". She will lead on this topic throughout the month. You'll want to be there!

- Saturday, February 13 - Christoph Bull Fundraising Organ Concert - From 7:30 pm to 10:30 pm - In the FUMC sanctuary - Sign up here to help: http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=274886015815&ref=mf

- Wednesday, February 17 - FUMC is holding two Ash Wednesday services in the Chapel, one at 12:15 pm and another at 7:30 pm. As we traditionally do, we will gather in the Bridge room before the evening service and attend together. We will reconvene in the Bridge room after the service ends for discussion and fellowship.

- Saturday, February 20 - We plan to meet at the Howard Hughes Center "The Bridge". Lunch is at 12:30 pm and we will follow that up with a round of Mini Golf to start around 1:30-2 pm.

- Saturday, March 6 - We will take a trip to St. Vincent's Point in Palos Verdes for an afternoon of whale watching, picnicking and taking in the sunset.

- If you are planning to make fleece comfort blankets for Disney's "Give a Day Get a Disney Day" with Shannon and Sarah, remember to sign up online!

Week of 3/Feb/2010: Bridge update

2010-02-11T19:58:00.001-08:00

- For the final week of our interfaith study, Noel led us in a discussion of Bible verses about religious tolerance and intolerance, from both the Old and New Testament. Thank you Noel for organizing an intriguing series of guest speakers and discussion!

- What's going on in February?...

- This upcoming Wednesday, February 3 - Game Night

- For the following three Wednesdays in February, Kellie will lead us a study of "Love".

- We currently have two opportunities to participate together as a group in Disney's "Give a Day Get a Disney Day":

1.) Deliver Meals on Wheels: http://www.mealsonwheelswest.org/
A time is set up for this Friday, Feb. 5, from 11am to 1pm in Santa Monica. If interested, contact Alicia B. ASAP.

2.) Make fleece comfort blankets for kids: http://binkypatrol.org/article.cfm?id=267
If interested, contact Shannon or Sarah H.

3.) If these don't work, you can set up your own volunteer activity: www.GiveADayGetADisneyDay.com

- Saturday, February 13 - Christoph Bull Fundraising Organ Concert - From 7:30 pm to 10:30 pm - In the FUMC sanctuary - Help is needed to supervise donation tables in the Narthex. Sign up here to help: http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=274886015815&ref=mf Or, make it a romantic night, enjoy the concert and show your support for Christoph's ambitious new CD project!

- Saturday, February 20 - We plan to meet at the Howard Hughes Center "The Bridge". Lunch is at 12:30 pm and we will follow that up with a round of Mini Golf to start around 1:30-2 pm.

- Saturday, March 6 - We will take a trip to St. Vincent's Point in Palos Verdes for an afternoon of whale watching, picnicking and taking in the sunset.

Week of 27/Jan/2010: Bridge update

2010-01-26T20:26:00.000-08:00

Last Wednesday our guest speaker could not be with us. A big "Thank You" to Shannon for leading our group in a study of Galatians!

We give our most sincere thanks to both Rebecca Arnold and Noel Eaton for a year of service as part of the Bridge Leadership Team (bLT). Thank you for all of your work behind the scenes to keep the Bridge running smoothly!

Coming up...

This upcoming Wednesday, January 27 - Noel will lead us as we continue our interfaith study. We will discuss our own experiences with other religions and cultures, what we learned from our visiting guests and how it relates to our own faith.

For the month of February, Kellie will lead us in a study of "Love".

Saturday, February 13 - 8 pm in the FUMC Sanctuary - Christoph (our Church's organist) is holding a concert to promote his new CD, which was recorded on the organ in the Disney Concert Hall. The Bridge was asked to help with his fundraising efforts by manning tables in the Narthex for receiving donations. If anyone is free during this time and wants to hear a great concert, we would love your help.

Saturday, February 20 - We plan to meet at the Howard Hughes Center "The Bridge". Lunch is at 12:30 pm and we will follow that up with a round of Mini Golf to start around 1:30-2 pm.

Saturday, March 6 - We will take a trip to St. Vincent's Point in Palos Verdes for an afternoon of whale watching, picnicking and taking in the sunset.

The blt

Week of 20/Jan/2010: Bridge update

2010-01-24T19:02:00.000-08:00

It's a rainy day today!

Last Wednesday's speakers joined us from the SGI Buddhist Center in Santa Monica. The two visitors were very passionate and informative. Learn more about Soka Gakkai International Buddhism at www.sgi-usa.org

What's coming up?

Today, Wednesday, Jan. 20 - We continue our comparative religions discussion tonight with a guest from the Center for Civic Engagement and Dialogue. Najeeba will join us to share about Islam. Learn more about her here: http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=60013687691

If Najeeba cannot join us tonight because of the weather, hopefully she will join us next Wednesday. We won't know until closer to the time of the Bridge but will keep you updated through the Bridge's Group Page on facebook.

If you have not already signed up for Disney's "Give a Day. Get a Disney Day." Now is the time! :) We will all try to do our service projects by March, to give us time to share about our experiences and also to schedule a day to go to Disneyland together.

See you tonight!

The blt

Check out the Facebook page

2009-03-24T22:36:00.000-07:00

The bridge is now a Facebook group. We will now be posting updates on Facebook, but you can still see the calendar here. Facebook won't let a group have a calendar. Weird, hunh? Anyway, here is the link to our group:

http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=42247597279

Hope to see you soon!

The Apostle

2008-11-21T17:14:00.001-08:00

I hope those of you in attendance the last two weeks enjoyed our screening of The Apostle. If you missed it, check it out by renting it or adding it to your Netflix list!

When you do, consider these questions/thoughts:

1) How does The Apostle E. F. (Sonny) redeem himself? Or does he?

2) Do the things that he does in the second half of the film justify those that happen in the beginning? Regardless of justification, do you feel Sonny is or will be forgiven?

3) What do you think about Sonny's "self-proclamation" in becoming an Apostle - is it legit? What do you think about his convictions? Does he truly believe God is calling him to do the things he does?

4) How does Sonny's character change throughout the film.

5) What can we learn about prayer by watching this film? Music? Cultural influences on religion and preaching styles?

6) Sonny/Apostle E. F. is shown to be a human being with PLENTY of flaws and struggles with "sins of the flesh" - does this make it easier for us to relate?

7) What do you think about Sam's character? Do you think he has learned from Sonny and might eventually take his place?

8) How does the opening scene make you feel? Why?

9) Many themes run though this film, including: faith, redemption, forgiveness, culture, race, sin, prayer, relationships... What are your thoughts on the issues presented.

I look forward to offering another film study in the future - this was fun!

Happy holidays, one and all!

Yours, Rachel

Prayer time

2008-06-15T19:33:00.000-07:00

As we continue our study of Romans through June (under Sarah's wonderful facilitation), remember to pray for the person who sat next to you, this week on the right. If you weren't able to attend on Wednesday, pick someone to pray for. We are praying for the salvation of the person on our right. This is the list of Salvations:

Salvation (sōtéria)
Salvation from physical illness Matthew 9:21; Luke 8:36
Salvation from danger Mathew 8:25; 14:30
Salvation from life's infection Acts 2:40
Salvation from lostness Matthew 18:11; Luke 19:10
Salvation from sin Matthew 1:21
Salvation from the wrath of God Romans 5:9
A Salvation which is eschatological Romans 13:11; 1 Corinthians 5:5; 2 Timothy 4:18; 1 Peter 1:5

Note: this month we are singing I Can Only Imagine. Here is a video of the song by Mercy Me, if you are interested in hearing the music http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S70gwFcSK9k.

PRAISES:

* Ellen and Sarah have done an awesome job on the bLT!

* Melissa has finished her classes, passed her finals and earned 2 scholarships!

* Sarah did a great job with our spring retreat and everyone had a blast!

* Shannon's dad will not have heart surgery this summer and is doing better physically and emotionally.

* Sarah had a great week at work and will be promoted soon!

* Alex and family had a good and productive counseling session and his family is interested in doing it again!

* David is done with his crazy schedule (and got a "B" in his Spanish class)!

Prayers:

* Doug is meeting with a producer/director and requests prayers for a good job.

* Shannon asks for continued prayers for her father, Don, who just had a bone/marrow biopsy and will get the results on June 25th. Pray that there is nothing majorly wrong and that whatever is found is treatable.

* Alex asks for continued prayers for his brother and his family.

* Please pray for Amy as she goes through a hard time emotionally.

* Pray that Michelle and Paul have settled into their new home and community. Pray that their jobs are rewarding and that they meet wonderful people.

* David is considering a new job opportunity that would be great experience, but has several drawbacks. Pray that the Lord shows him what the right decision will be for him.

* Kelli asks for continued prayers for her father. Please pray that the treatment he is getting will make him physically well and that God will touch his heart and body to heal and lift his spirits.

* Please continue to pray for Anna's sister.

* Please pray for Tracey (who had a prayer quilt tied this morning) Tracey T is a vibrant 39 year old who affirms life through her warm relationships with her friends, family, students, and especially her husband, Brandon. She has been an energetic participant in a survivor support group at Santa Monica's Wellness Community. Her cancer has metastasized and now threatens her life. Tracey is 27 weeks pregnant. She is being treated at UCLA hospital in Westwood. She requests prayers for: *strength to lift her spirits in her battle with cancer; *the delivery of a healthy baby; *a chance to be a mom; and *success for her medical team in keeping her cancer in check.

June fun.

2008-06-15T19:25:00.000-07:00

We are gathering a group to go to the "United Methodist Family Night at Dodger Stadium" on Friday, July 11, at 7:40 pm. If you would like to go with us, please bring $17 to the bridge THIS WEDNESDAY, JUNE 18TH as we have to order the tickets before next week. If you are unable to get to the bridge meeting, please send the money with another member or talk with one of the bLT by this Wednesday. The Los Angeles Dodgers will be playing the Florida Marlins and it's a lot of fun. We have a new location for seats this year, which will be located in the infield Reserve Level. Tickets are $17 ($28 value). (David)

The bridge is building a service relationship with Upward Bound House (across the street from the church) and there is a service opportunity this Thursday, June 19th. They are looking for people to help with the setup, serving and clean up for their fundraising dinner. If you are interested, please contact Ellen.

The First Annual UMYF vs. the bridge volleyball game will take place on Sunday, June 29th. Please plan to come and have fun. There will be dinner at the church and we will head to the beach for some volleyball. Sorry, I forgot to write down the time (I believe it is 6-9), but will have the exact times next e-mail. (Rachel/Noel)

Random note: we have a lot of hamburgers left over from the all church BBQ and are planning an upcoming all bridge BBQ and potluck. Details to follow when we have a date. It will be at the church on a Wednesday night.

The bridge is planning a trip to the Getty Center this summer, more details to follow. (Chris)

LACMA has music on Fri Nights. (Sarah)

July 26 – Relay for Life. We have participated in the Relay for Life for several years with great spirit and enthusiasm, but haven't put as much effort into the fundraising portion of the event. The bLT has decided not to make this a bridge sponsored event this year unless people are really interested in doing it, including the fundraising aspect. The goal would be for $100 per person. This doesn't mean that everyone would have to raise the $100, but that they would commit to actively try to raise it. If you are interested and want the bridge to continue to be involved in this event, please reply to this email or let a bLT member know. See http://www.relayforlife.org/relay/about for more details.

We are planning a welcome potluck dinner for our new church staff this summer. More details to follow. (bLT)

August 11-18th: AIDS Exhibit (?)

Coffee hour August 24th. One service Sunday. Please plan to bring goodies to drop off before the service. (bLT)

Interested in being a Welcome Ambassador for the church? Talk to Alex!

Please send updated personal info to Shannon or thebridge (see email for details).

How's the bridge?

2008-06-07T21:56:00.000-07:00

So, I bet you have all been wondering. What’s the bridge up to now? The past couple of months have been crazy with bible study, service, and fellowship.

We had a great turn out for our Habitat day even with little notice of the build from Habitat; likewise, we filled our van to head out to the L.A. Mission after a last minute change of plans for Big Saturday. We completed 15 healthcare kits for UMCOR and had several other “partials” that we donated to other church groups to fill out.

I know that the spring retreat is our “spiritual” retreat of the year, but can you hang out with the bridge and not have fun? Dutch Blitz, water bottle baseball, loaded questions. Have you ever walked up a ladder blindfolded? How about through the sanctuary? Of course we did a lot of study as well. It was great to be hiking up a mountain while studying Bible verses and John Wesley’s sermons. We even managed to do a little service in making cookies for the fellowship hour after church as a thank you to Wrightwood Methodist Church for letting us stay at their church for free. Thank you Sarah for all your hard work securing the place for the retreat, planning the activities (rope course!) and menu, buying the food, and of course our wonderful bible study, discussions and wrap up. It was a great weekend enjoyed by all.

The bLT will be transitioning again this month (get your ideas, suggestions, comments to the suggestion box or a bLT member by this Wednesday, June 11 to be discussed at our meeting the next weekend). We welcome Alex and Kellie while saying goodbye to Sarah and Ellen. This will be the first time that the bLT will not have members of the original bLT group on board. You have all made a lasting impression and we will do our best to fill your shoes. Ellen, you have done such a wonderful job finding and coordinating the service projects, especially with UBH and Habitat! Sarah, our organizer and secretary; I have never enjoyed reading minutes more! You both have helped to make the bridge what it is with your time, talents and ideas and will be missed at our future planning sessions.

Romans chapter 2

2008-06-07T19:49:00.001-07:00

Romans 2: What it means to be a Jew

Romans 2:1-11 The Responsibility of Privilege
Paul is directly addressing the Jews here. Previously he painted a dark picture of the heathen world (which the Jews agreed with). But, they failed to see that they were also sinners.
They thought they occupied a privileged position.
Paul reminded the Jews of (4) things:

Trading on the mercy of God Romans 2:4
Kindness (chrēstotēs)
Good in Greek is agathos and chrēstos
An Agathos man will rebuke in discipline and punishment. EG, Jesus driving out moneylenders from the temple.
A Chrēstos man is always essentially kind. EG, Jesus’ acts towards the adulteress
Forbearance (anochē) = Truce
A man cannot sin forever with impunity
Patience (makrothumia) = Patience with People
A man who has the power to avenge himself and deliberately does not.
The Jews were taking the mercy and love of God as invitation to sin rather than as an incentive to repentance.
God will forgive me, it is his trade. Heinrich Heine.
There is NO “Most Favored Nation” clause
People are picked for special tasks and special responsibilities, but not for special privileges and special considerations.
Faith is no faith at all without deeds

Romans 2:6
A man’s works and faith are bound together
“To Paul a faith which did not issue in deeds was a travesty of faith; in fact it was no faith at all.”

Romans 2:12-16 The Unwritten Law
A man will be judged by what he has the opportunity to know. IE, God is fair. J
If he knows the Law, he will be judged by how he lived with the Law
If he does not know the Law, he will be judged to his faithfulness to the highest that it was possible for him to know.
We all have an unwritten Law in our hearts
Instinctive knowledge of right and wrong.
This is inline with Greek reasoning of the time
No one is exempt from God’s judgment.

Romans 2:17-29 The Real Jew
Jewishness is not a matter of race; it is a matter of conduct.

Romans 2:29 The praise of such a man comes not from men but from God.
Praise (epianos) is the traditional meaning of Judah – who was one of the 12 sons of Jacob and a great-grandson of Abraham. He founded the Kingdom of Judah, which is one of the twelve tribes of Israel (from Jacob’s 12 sons).
This verse then, also means: The Jewishness of such a man comes not from men but from God.
There were some Jews who, by their conduct, defamed the name of God.
How we act as Jews/Christians gives the rest of the world a perception as to what we believe and who our God is.
At that time, there was a lot of ignorance about Judaism
Rumors that the Jews began as lepers, that they worshiped asses and pigs, that they were lazy for not working on the Sabbath.
At the time, there was a lot of resentment about Judaism
Jews were unpopular, but the Roman government gave them select privileges.
They were allowed to transmit the Temple Tax to Jerusalem every year.
They were allowed to have their own courts and live by their own laws (at least more so than the Gentiles).
They didn’t have to work on the Sabbath
This meant… they weren’t forced to join the army.
(1) Big Misperception
Others thought they were atheist since there were no visible images to worship. This was very different from any other religion of the time.
Mostly though…. They had a great contempt for others
Tacitus (a Roman Senator and Historian 56-117 CA) said: “Among themselves their honesty is inflexible, their compassion quick to move, but to all other persons they show the hatred of antagonism.”
“The did bring the name of God into disrepute, because they shut themselves into a rigid little community from which all others were shut out and because they showed to the heathen an attitude of contempt for their worship and complete lack of charity for their needs.”
Real Christianity is a thing of the open heart and the open door.

The Pillars of Paul’s thoughts and beliefs:

2008-06-07T19:48:00.001-07:00

Salvation (sōtéria)
Salvation from physical illness Matthew 9:21; Luke 8:36
Salvation from danger Mathew 8:25; 14:30
Salvation from life’s infection Acts 2:40
Salvation from lostness Matthew 18:11; Luke 19:10
Salvation from sin Matthew 1:21
Salvation from the wrath of God Romans 5:9
A Salvation which is eschatological
Romans 13:11; 1 Corinthians 5:5; 2 Timothy 4:18; 1 Peter 1:5
Faith
Loyalty 2 Thessalonians 1:4
Belief 1 Corinthians 15:17
The Christian Religion 2 Corinthians 13:5
Indestructible Hope 2 Corinthians 5:7
Total Acceptance & Absolute Trust
Being receptive
Mental Assent
Total Surrender
Justification (dikaiosuné)
To justify (dikaioun)
Digular is dikaioō
Greek words ending in oō do not mean to prove or to make a person or thing to be something. They mean to treat or account or to reckon a person as something.
If God justifies a sinner, it means that God treats the sinner as if he had not been a sinner at all.
Justification means that God thinks of us as a good men. As people to be loved, not as enimies.
Justification is the right relationship between God and man.
The man who is just, is the man who is in this right relationship, and he is in it not because of anything that he has done, but because of what God has done.
In Faith he cast himself upon God’s mercy and Love. He did not earn that love by following the law.

The Just shall live by Faith

The Letter to the Romans by Paul

2008-06-07T19:43:00.000-07:00

Romans 1: 1-7 A Call, A Gospel and A Task
Greek Definition of Slave = doulos
Gospel of the incarnation and the resurrection
What does it mean to be called by God? By men?

Romans 1: 8-15 The Courtesy of Greatness
Communities were very isolated from each other. Paul had to get past their suspicion of foreigners and also convince them he wasn’t going trespass or interfere.
Paul was a great teacher, but he was humble as a teacher.
Gift of prayer for out fellow man
Message for world, no matter what culture or education or station a people/person has.

Romans 1: 16,17 Good News of Which to Be Proud
The pillars of Paul’s thoughts and beliefs:
Salvation
Faith
Justification

Romans 1: 18-23 The Wrath of God
In the Old Testament, the wrath of God is connected with the idea of the covenant people. The special relationship with Israel would keep as long as they keep his law
A breach of the law would provoke God’s wrath on Israel
Others could incur the wrath of God by hurting Israel
The prophets emphasized the wrath of God continually working to annihilate sin.
“The soul that sins shall die.” Ezekiel 18:4
Moral order is the wrath of God at work
But… as Christians we know that God Loves us
Paul never speaks of God being angry. He mentions the wrath of God (3) times. Here, Ephesians 5:6 and Colossians 3:6
Always against disobedience
Paul does mention “The Wrath” in other places. “The Wrath” is an impersonal force in the world, which Jesus saves men from. It will come up later in Romans and 1 Thessalonians 1:10.
Paul believes we find God in the world. See who God is in nature.
See that suffering follows sin.
The sinners turn to man instead of to God. He made his own laws instead of looking at nature and following the will of God.
Simmer’s folly is making man the “master of things.”
Result is idolatry.
Rooted in selfishness. Worship for his own sake, and not for God’s
Essence of sin is to put self in place of God.

Romans 1: 24,25 Men with Whom God Can do Nothing
Greek definition of desires = epithumia
Passionate desire for forbidden pleasure
God abandoning men
He gave us free-will, so we have the choice to turn our back on God.
We have the choice to be a slave to God or a slave to sin.

Romans 1: 26, 27 An Age of Shame
Rome was out of control!!! See why below…

Romans 1: 28-32 The Life Which has Left God Out of the Reckoning
Man brings a judgment upon himself by banishing God
Evil (adikia) is the opposite of Justice (diaiosuńe) which is giving to God and to men their due
Villainy (ponéria) is a badness which hurts the person concerned. It is an active, deliberate will to corrupt and to inflict injury. The devil was called ho ponéros, the evil one.
The lust to get (pleonexia) is the accursed love of having. A desire that knows no laws and disregards all others.
Viciousness (kakia) is a man destitute of every quality which would make him good. Most general word in greek for badness.
Envy (phthonos) is a resentful envy that warps human emotions
Murder (phonos) Remember that Jesus told us that even the spirit of anger and hatred is murder. Before him, it was just the act of killing, not the thought.
Strife (eris) is contention born of envy, ambition, desire for prestige and arises from a hart of jealousy.
Deceit (dalos) is a man who plots intrigues.
Evil-Naturedness (kakoétheia) the spirit which thinks the worst of others
Whisperers and slanderers (psitheristés and katalalos).
Haters of God (theostugeis) see God as barrier to pleasure.
Insolent men (hubristés) men who defy God and are cruel
Arrogent Men (huperéphanos) contempt for others
Braggarts (alazōn)
Inventors of Evil (epheuretés kakōn)
Disobedient to their parents (goneusin apeitheis)
Senseless (asunetos)
Breakers of agreements (asunthetos)
Without natural affections (astorgos) family love
Pitiless (aneleémōn)

The Story of the Scallop Shell

2008-04-26T00:00:00.000-07:00

During the 12th and 13th centuries pilgrims traveled to Santiago de Campestela, a town in the farthest northwestern reach of Spain where in the cathedral, tradition says, the relics of Saint James the Apostle rest. Compestela became, after Jeruselem and Rome, the most famous place of pilgrimage in Christendom. Pilgrims were guided along the route by the scallop shell painted on signs and carved into buildings. Along the Camino de Santiago in the city of Leon the scallop shell continued to mark the route. Here they are made of brass and embedded in the city's sidewalks and squares. The scallop shell became the symbol of this pilgrimage.

Jesus is the Light, and we need no other Light

2008-04-24T22:17:00.000-07:00

We continued our study on Christian Meditation with Alex last night with a Labyrinth walk led by Mary Garbesi. We learned a little of the history of labyrinths and of our labyrinth in particular. After walking the labyrinth, we discussed our thoughts and experiences with the labyrinth. Make sure to come next Wednesday for the final installment on Christian meditation!

Thanks Alex for teaching us a new song and for bringing in all the instruments! It definitely made up for the previous 'songless' Wednesdays!

Next month, Sarah will be facilitating Romans.

_______________________________________________

Please pray these prayers:

* bridge members - We didn't do individual prayers this past Wednesday. Please keep all the bridge members and their families in your prayers this week.
* Matthew Logan (Whitney's friend) - Friday night (4/18) a car jumped the curb and hit a group of people. He was walking on the sidewalk. He was taken to the neuro-ICU, where he had brain swelling and bleeding, so they had to put in a stint on Saturday. So far the doctors have kept Mat in a medically induced coma due to his head trauma. The pressure has gone down some, and if Mat continues to remain stable, they will take him of the sedation and paralytics on Thursday, so as to see if there is a response. The most recent update is he had some swelling overnight, so had to postpone the med withdrawal to add another drain.
* Whitney's brother - He's decided to request for a transfer from his naval station in Groton, CT. He has always struggled to fit in in life, and it has finally become too difficult for him to continue to work where he is stationed based on the treatment he receives from those he works with. Please pray for healing, strength, love to surround him, and that this situation will not exacerbate what he is already facing from his fleet.
* Jay and KAtherine Wolfe and new baby (see e-mails sent out by Peter) -Katharine collapsed due to a preexisting brain condition and she had emergency surgery for hemmoraging. The doctors are very concerned that she will have permanent brain damage. The family is asking that the prayers keep pouring in as we are all asking for a total miracle. Her husband Jay has asked that we begin to pray Mark 5:41 -- to believe that Jesus is speaking to Katharine. "He took her by the hand and said to her, "Talitha koum!" (which means, "Little girl, I say to you, get up!")" -- Mark 5:41

Praise God for:
* bridge members - praise God for all the wonderful things that we have in our lives. Enough to eat, clothing to keep us warm, a safe place to sleep at night, friends and family.

Mission Project for 2008 Annual Conference: VIM healthcare kits.

2008-04-17T23:07:00.001-07:00

Mission Project for 2008 Annual Conference: VIM healthcare kits.

This is a project that we have participated in in the past and will do again this year.
See http://new.gbgm-umc.org/umcor/getconnected/supplies/ for more information.
Items needed include: gallon sized plastic bags, hand towels (15" x 25" up to 17" x 27", No kitchen towels), washcloths, large, sturdy combs (not pocket-sized), nail files or fingernail clippers (no emery boards or toenail clippers), bath-size bars of soap (3 oz. and up), toothbrushes (single brushes only in original wrapper, No child-size brushes), adhesive plastic strip sterile bandages, $ to purchase toothpaste (in $1 increments, they no longer accept toothpaste and ask for $1 per kit to purchase in bulk).

Thank you everyone who signed up to bring items:
Alex, Ellen, Rachel, Noel, Ashok, Rebecca, Sarah, Shannon, Erin , Kellie, Paul, and Michelle

If you weren't at the last bridge meeting and would like to contibute, we still need 15 hand towels (I forgot to put them on the sign-up sheet). If you would like to bring other items we will continue to make as many kits as possible and can donate partial kits to other groups in the church to finish. We will collect items throughout April.

May 3 - BIG SATURDAY

2008-04-17T23:05:00.000-07:00

May 3 - BIG SATURDAY Please note: we will be working on SATURDAY even though it's called Big Sunday. We took a final vote at the last bridge meeting and have come up with a project. There is a lot of work to be done and is centrally located for bridge members. I have signed us up as a group (if you look at the project it will say full). Please let Shannon know if you plan on coming as we need to make sure that we have a group. Phoenix House in Venice helps men with serious histories of drug addiction and incarceration reclaim disordered lives. They've asked us to help them convert a 900 square foot space on their property "from an eyesore to a landscaped area where their clients can relax and be at peace." It's a b-i-g Big Sunday fix-up project, involving new sod, plants, pouring concrete, and some "very patient painters." This great project, right on the beach, will involve lots of hard work, and loads of good spirit. Venice, CA 90291 Saturday, May 03, 2008 09:00 AM To: 04:00PM

May 30/June 1 - Bridge spiritual retreat

2008-04-17T23:02:00.000-07:00

May 30/June 1 - Bridge spiritual retreat We have secured a place to stay for the retreat!!

THE PLAN:

The bLT hopes to organize two retreats a year -- one focusing on fellowship and the other focusing on spiritual renewal. This upcoming retreat is our spiritual retreat; so the focus will be on spiritual renewal, not who finished the most bottles of wine :) To that end we will capitalize on our location and spend some time in the woods by going on a small hike or walk, engaging in some contemplative readings and discussions -- ie, bible studies :) -- and a few other activities in that general theme.
If anyone has anything they really want to do, let Sarah know and she make it happen. Do I hear hula hoop team building anyone?

So, for those who were wondering what we do on our retreats... it is basically a Wednesday night meeting stretched out for a weekend. Time filled with fellowship, fun and study... or to quote our Mission Statement: adults gathering for the purpose of Spiritual Growth, recognizing Spiritual Growth as encompassing elements of study, fellowship, and service.

If you still have any questions (or suggestions for the retreat) please let the bLT know.
Thanks! Sarah

The Wrightwood United Methodist Church has graciously allowed us to stay in their church and use their facilities. The cost of the retreat will be $30 per person, but if you can't afford it please talk to one of the bLT members and we will help you out. Please let the bLT know if you are planning on attending by either signing up on the board in the bridge room or emailing shuntting@gmail.com or signing up on the evite: We would like to get a ballpark figure soon for planning purposes, so the sooner you an let us know the better (it would be extremely helpful if you respond even if you are not sure YES/NO/MAYBE). (you can always go back and change your answer if you are a maybe) Hope to see you all there!!

Please pray these prayers:

2008-04-17T23:00:00.001-07:00

Please pray these prayers:

* Chris - waiting for results of tests. Pray that everything comes out clean. Also pray that she and her husband find an answer to their financial difficulties.
* David - Pray that he learns how to study Spanish and give him the discipline to do so. Pray that he finds the right people to help him study.
* Zack/Grace (Alex' brother and his wife) - Pray that now that they are living together again they can improve their situation and get their son, Trent, the medical care that he needs.
* Daisy/Hooper (bunny) - pray that Sarah finds the right words to help Anna cope with the situation of putting him to sleep
* Nicole and her husband (Rebecca's sister) - Pray that she will come to terms with her difficult marriage and take steps to protect herself
* Brian (Shannon's nephew) - pray that he is able to understand that his actions have consequences and learns how to get along in the world
* Suri (Rebecca's boss' mother) - pray that she recovers from her heart attack without lingering medical problems.
* Rebecca - pray that her meeting with her boss goes well as they discuss her future with the company.

Praise God for:
* Zack (Alex' brother) - has found a job in a restaurant
* Chris - Is doing well as a checker

8 Minute Meditation by Victor Davich

2008-04-10T21:18:00.001-07:00

Greetings friends,
Thanks for your participation and sharing last night at the Bridge. Here are the instructions for meditation this week.
Remember, I am challenging you to meditate for 8 minutes once a day until we meet next. Enjoy it!

Just One Breath
Preparation:
Set a timer or watch 8 minutes or just look at a clock
Find a comfortable position to sit
Gently allow your eyes to close
Take a long, deep inhale that sweeps up your current worries, hopes, and dreams. Hold it for a moment. Then gently and slowly "sigh" it out.
One more time. Deep breath. Release any remaining tension.
Start your meditation.

Meditation instructions:

Relax
Notice the place in your body where you are most aware of the sensation of breathing. It may be your chest, diaphragm, or nostrils. There is no "right" place.
Gently direct your attention to that place.
Observe the natural rise and fall of the breath.
Allow...allow...allow. Thre's no need to become involved or figure anything out.
Thinking? No problem. Simply notice your thoughts. Let them go and return to your focus point.
It often helps to focus on a word or a phrase if you find your mind wandering (like a Bible verse or the a fruit of the spirit - PEACE for example)
Continue to focus on the breath.
Whenever you lose focus just notice that you are thinking about it and then let it go and return to your focus.

Instructions come from: 8 Minute Meditation by Victor Davich

It's that easy. Good luck and I'll see you next week. We will be sharing our experiences, learning new meditation techniques from Christian history and more.

All the best,
Alex

Please pray these prayers:

2008-04-10T21:14:00.001-07:00

* Chris - waiting for results of tests
* Sarah (Paul's friend) - expecting a baby soon
* Todd/Autumn (Kelli's brother/fiancee) - stressed about upcoming wedding in HI and all the 'advice' they are getting
* Daisy/Hooper (bunny) - pray that he hangs in there til Anna gets back from vacation
* People taking the PE this weekend - (Praise - Sarah already passed!)
* Ruby (Shannon's stepmother) - mother passed away
* David (Whitney's coworker) - Please say a prayer for my coworker, David. He is only 39 years old and is in the hospital now after having a stroke. They say he is awake but cannot speak.

Praise God for:
* Anna (Sarah'a roomate) - vacationing with family
* Ellen/Alex - LOved their trip to DC
* Ashok - his middle brother is getting married

VIM healthcare kits

2008-03-28T16:04:00.001-07:00

Prayer time

2008-03-28T15:05:00.000-07:00

Please pray these prayers:

* Melissa - perseverance and focus in her studies during the last two weeks of her first (accelerated) nursing class.
* Sarah (Michelle's friend) - wisdom for all concerned (Drs, nurses, family, patient, etc) in healing Sarah's mother not only of the blood clot in her arm, but of her digestive problems as well. Pray that Sarah can hold it together and be strong through this difficult time of uncertainty.
* Donald (Shannon's Dad) - wisdom and understanding and faith as he makes the decision about whether or not to undergo bypass surgery.
* Ellen - that she will have a rewarding visit with her sister who is visiting
* Steven (Rebecca's sister's fiancee) - guidance for his son who has run away (again) and for hope and knowledge of the son's well being for Steven and his family.
* Heidi (Rebecca's acquaintance) - healing and strength to attend to her medical needs after finding cancer during a hysterectomy.
* David's aunt - health, comfort, peace and joy and that she will continue to be an awesome lady.
* Raymond (Kelli's friend) - comfort and peace after losing his grandfather who raised him

Praise God for:
* Tati (Shannon's aunt) - who has finally received hearing aids after almost 2 years of trying.
* Steve (Shanon's brother) - whose job hours have changed from shift work (nights) to consistent 4 days per week.
* Ellen whose sister is visiting

Paul's Advice

2008-03-28T14:34:00.000-07:00

It was a great turnout on March 22nd for our Habitat for Humanity build (paint) day. Especially with the short notice. We had 9 people show up and were able to carpool in 2 vans. Rachel brought a (delicious!) lunch for all including the habitat people and some people who had signed up as single participants.

Easter was celebrated with a potluck at Sarah's house following church with another great turn out. Many people were able to attend that we have been missing on Wednesday nights.

We completed Paul's first letter to Timothy this past Wednesday with the facilitation of David. We discussed what our (individual and as a church) role is in helping others (specifically widows and family). How to serve God even when enslaved. And "the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil".

It is important to understand some of how people lived and what was going on at the time that this letter was written and that it is an actual letter from one person to another when discussing how this effects us today.

Alex will be leading the Bridge in April on the subject of Christian meditation.

Please send Alex (or a bLT member) any questions that you may have about meditation or thoughts about what you would like to learn about Christian meditation. He will use these suggestions to tailor our time together over the course of the month.

Overseers and Deacons

2008-03-20T00:12:00.000-07:00

1 Timothy chapter 3 dealt with qualifications for people running the church. High ideals are expected of these people.

They should: be self controlled, be hospitable, be able to teach, not be violent but gentle, not be quarrelsome, not be a lover of money, not be a recent convert, have a good reputation with outsiders, not be overbearing, not be quick-tempered, love what is good, be upright and holy, be disciplined, be above reproach, have only one spouse, be temperate, be respectable, not be given to drunkenness, manage ones family well, see that ones children obey him, not pursue dishonest gain, keep hold of the deep truths, and be sincere.

We had a long discussion about these ideals and how things differ between the time Paul wrote this letter to Timothy and now. We aslo discussed whether or not women were allowed to be deacons.

Chapter 4 reiterated several points that we had discussed in chapter 1 and gives Timothy more ideas of how to run the church.

Because of our long discussion we were unable to get to chapter 5. Next week will cover chapters 5-6.

Please pray these prayers:

2008-03-20T00:07:00.001-07:00

Please pray these prayers:
Eunice and Luis - Pray for strength and acceptance for our missionaries in Guatamala whose son passed away suddenly at the age of 21.
Nicole and family (Rebecca's sister) - Pray for guidance and strength.
August - (Rebecca's friend) Pray for strength and healing of her breast cancer and that she will be well for her wedding in October.
Brad - Pray for healing and strength him and his family in dealing with his mother's stroke.
Sarah - Pray for her to do well on her work presentation tomorrow (3-20)
Don (Shannon's Dad) - Pray for the doctors expertise and knowledge in diagnosing and calibrating his CPAP following his sleep study to help him sleep safely so that his sleep apnea will not aggravate his other health problems.
David - Pray for sanity and rest in his busy schedule.
Chris - Pray that her mammogram on March 31 will come out clean.
Chris - Pray for confidence in her new duties at work.
Our bridge members who are unable to come on Wednesday nights and are missing us - Please pray that they are able to participate in and enjoy opportunities with the bridge on other days.

Praises:
David - LOVES his new internship.

1 Timothy 1-2

2008-03-16T18:11:00.000-07:00

Background information. 1 Timothy was written by the apostle, Paul shortly after his release from prison in Rome (circa A.D. 65). This letter gives advice on how to better lead the chrch at Ephesus to deal with "false teachers" who threatened to undermine Paul's work.

We looked at information in Acts to try and understand what kind of man Paul had been previously and why God wanted him as a representative of His church.

If you missed last Wednesday, you may want to read 1 TImothy chapters 1-2. If you want to read ahead, we will cover chapters 3-5 this coming Wednesday and chapter 6 on the last Wednesday of the month.

Thank you, David, for facilitating this study.

Please pray these prayers:

2008-03-16T18:10:00.001-07:00

Kelli - pray for good health and for finding a new roommate that is nice and responsible
Anna (Sarah's roommate) - Daisy/Hooper, the bunny, has had a recurrance of the tumor and Anna has made the decision (on the vet's advice) that he will have to be put to sleep when his quality of life begins to suffer (project 1-2 months)
Whitney's brother - Pray that things will work in his best interests in his dealings with his Navy unit.
Alex's family
Whitney - pray that her new supervisor will be a good fit for her and her company
Peter (Sarah's friend) - who is leading a mission trip to Russia.
Nicole and family (Rebecca's sister) - Pray for guidance and strength in her marriage to bring them closer together

Praises:
Alex - networking efforts have paid off to help Upward Bound House
David - has started his internship and it is "awesome" (he thanks everyone for their prayers)
Kelli - has passed her 6 month review with flying colors

Roadrunner on horseback vs. a mummy with a rubber chicken...

2008-03-08T12:03:00.000-08:00

If the subject line didn't make you smile, you must have missed last weeks Game Night with the bridge! We had a great time and welcomed 2 new people into our group. Remember, the first Wednesday of every month is Game Night.

Thanks Paul for the wonderful discussion on vocation and calling during the month of February. You gave us a lot to think about.

We look forward to a Bible study facilitated by David this month.

Keep your calendars clear for May 3-4. Big Sunday! All over town, all weekend long.

More info to come regarding our Spring Retreat in May.

Things are kind of quiet on the calendar this month. The bridge Leadership Team will be meeting Monday, March 10 to make decisions for the next few months. If you have any questions, suggestions or comments please let a bLT member know, reply to this e-mail, or leave a note in the box in the bridge room 'where Jesus used to be'.

We are specifically looking at service during this meeting and would love any suggestions that you may have regarding service projects that you would like to do with the bridge.

Please pray these prayers:
* Pray for peace for David in his roommate situation
* Pray for Simon and his family after the passing of Simon's step-mother
* Pray for Cristina who will have a medical screening on the 30th of this month. Pray for her to not worry during this period of waiting, that if something is found it will be cured quickly, but mostly that everything will turn out to be fine and no further procedures will be needed
* Pray for Grace and Trent for happiness and stability in their lives
* Sarah gives praise for the fabulous wedding in Seattle

Habitat project

2008-03-01T14:11:00.001-08:00

This Sunday afternoon, March 2, at 4:00 pm at First Presbyterian Church (1220 2nd St, Santa Monica) there will be a classical music concert that is a fundraiser for the Habitat project we've been talking about at the bridge over the last few months. The tickets are $25 per person and the program will include Faure's Requiem and Zeisl's Hebrew Requiem

Vocation week 2

2008-03-01T14:09:00.000-08:00

I. What is Vocation-

a. Our thoughts, definitions. It is larger than and separate from a career or job. A job can be included in our calling but not necessarily.

b. Classical Christian understandings. Vocation comes from the Latin vocatio which simply means a summons or an invitation. Vocation is simply the call from God.

i. Martin Luther, responding to the high monasticism of the Catholic Church came up with a dual understanding of vocation: the spiritual and the external vocation. The spiritual vocation was what comes to all Christians through the proclamation of the gospel. External vocation is God’s call to serve God and humanity in the world. The external vocation comes to a person through his or her station in life or profession.

ii. The reality that Luther was dealing with was the 16th century. There was no such thing as upward mobility or the middle class. This understanding of vocation did not make room for multiple professions or provide a good understanding of alienation or mindless work. The Lutheran understanding of vocation compartmentalized life into two separate realms: the spiritual and the external.

iii. Volf’s understanding is more holistic and stems from Luther’s understanding yet differs from it significantly. Volf agrees with Luther in that all Christians are called. Where the difference comes is in that Volf believes there is one calling that encompasses all of one’s life. The call is to the gospel and to enter the kingdom of God. Part of how that call is realized is through the living out of our calling, bearing the fruits of the Spirit as given to each individual.

iv. Holistic understanding. Read Psalm 24:1-2. Everything is under the dominion of the Lord. The entire world and all those who live in it. The call of God on our lives is not limited to what we do to “make a living.”

v. Our lives, every aspect of our lives, is the response to the call and becomes the substance of our vocation as we continue in conversation with God. Vocation encompasses all that we are.

II. The Last Things and its impact on the significance on human work and activity. There are two broad understandings of the last things that we must consider. To gain an appreciation for human activity and culture.

a. Apocalyptic. If we believe that all of this will pass away—that God is going to start over, or transport us all to some other place, what value do our actions have?

b. Transformative If we believe that creation will be transformed, that the new creation has its roots in the current creation then work and all human activity takes on a greater, even ultimate significance from a theological perspective. Look at the time between Gen 2 and Gen 3. Here we have the beginnings of culture. Where to eat. Where to sleep. Where to put our garbage. What to do in our leisure time, etc. All of these activities fall under the mandate that God gave to humanity in Gen 1. The human activities and accomplishments along with the way we interact with one another are part of the cultural mandate. Yes some aspects of this are fallen, but through the power of the Cross we can access God in right relationship and carry out our divinely appointed role in a divinely appointed manner. (Rev 21:1-5)

c. Read Romans 8:18-23. This tells us that creation is groaning in anticipation of renewal. Humanity is also groaning in this anticipation. Jesus’ talk about the kingdom of God being at hand and coming to the present earth is also indicative of a transformational understanding. (Luke 17:20-21)The mission of the UMC is to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world. This also bears witness to a transformational understanding or at the very least about positive contributions to the present world. A resurrected physical body makes sense only in the context of a restored earthly environment to exist in.

III. Charisms Read 1 Cor 12:1-7. Ask how does God do this with us? How does our vocation or our calling from God manifest itself? This is where Palmer comes in handy. His Let your Life Speak is instrumental in this. God has placed the Spirit within us all. Our capacities to be co-creators with God are in us all. The calling is not primarily a call of obedience but a call to be equipped and a conduit of the Holy Spirit. (Exodus 31:1-6, Ephesians 4:4-16).

Next week: Summary of where we are and a look at practical ways to discern our gifts and utilize them.

Paul

Please pray these prayers

2008-02-15T18:45:00.000-08:00

The Wednesday night post is a little long so I decided to post the prayers/praises separately.

Please pray for Michelle that she will be able to remediate her anemia with diet and not need drugs.

Pray for the three girls who are missing (Amber Alert).

Pray for David to "stay cool and be proactive" in his quest for an internship.

Pray for Rebecca in her talks with her boss about staying with the company. Pray that it will work out in the right way.

Michelle gives praise that she is again in talks with her boss about returning to a salaried employee.

Shannon gives praise that her brother, Steve, has healed and is "feeling better than he did before he got so sick!"

Sarah gives praise that Daisy (Hooper) is doing well after his surgery.

Praise that Jennifer was able to join us and hope that she will continue to be able to come as her busy schedule permits.

Vocation, work, and calling.

2008-02-15T18:39:00.000-08:00

Week1: Background information

1. There is not much in the scriptures directly related to work, vocation, or career. Read 1 Thessalonians 4:9-12, Ecclesiastes 3:9-13. These verses offer incomplete understandings at best.

2. Because there is not a great deal directly related to this topic in the scriptures we need to utilize theological reflection. We can do this in two ways: Look at what others have said on the topic or engage our theological references and sources to come up with something that works for us. The theological references that are helpful are: scripture, family, ministers, tradition, pop culture, experience. In Methodism the “big four” are: scripture, reason, tradition, experience.

3. I tend to also look at other people’s theological reflection through reading. Some helpful references with regard to this topic (vocation, work and career) are:

a. Now, Discover Your Strengths by Marcus Buckingham and Donald O. Clifton
b. Let Your Life Speak by Parker J. Palmer
c. Work in the Spirit: Toward a Theology of Work by Miroslav Volf
d. How to Think Theologically by Howard Stone and James Duke
e. The Other Six Days by R. Paul Stevens

4. Look at Genesis 1:26-31. The cultural mandate, creating (working) puts us in the image of God. Creativity can be seen as solving problems in a new way. It provides fulfillment and generates synergy.

5. As we think about our own theology there are three broad categories that may be helpful. Before we can really talk about what it means to be a Christian at work or to have a Christian vocation we need to come to terms with what it means to be a Christian. There are three major understandings of Christian identity: doctrinist, pietist, and activist.

a. Doctrinist – is heavy into doctrine, what are the essential ideas we have to have? What do I have to know? There are certain doctrines that hold Christianity together. An example is the Nicean Creed. Presbyterians and fundamentalists are traditionally in this group. Lutherans also fall into this category. Readers tend to like Pauline writings over other scriptures. (2 Tim 3:16). Scripture is seen as somewhat of a rulebook.

b. Pietist – focused more on relationship. They are focused on the relationship that we have with Jesus. Being. Like the gospel of John and the Psalms. Love the mystery of the scriptures. It’s warm and fuzzy. Baptists tend to be in this camp as well as many traditional evangelicals. Traditions associated with the holiness movement (i.e. Pentecostals) tend to be in this camp. Tend to see scripture as a devotional book or a love letter. (John 15:1-5)

c. Activists – concerned with doing the right things. Influenced heavily by the Sermon on the Mount (Matt 5 – 7) and the missionary activities of Jesus. Many liberation theologians fall into this camp (James Cone, Gustavo Gutierrez). Proponents of the social gospel are in here. Methodists tend to be in this camp although there is a strong history of pietism in our history as well. Scripture is seen as a manifesto for social action. Methodist gravitate in pietist and activist understandings.

6. The reason that we spent time looking at this is that in my research the authors that I have looked at have a decidedly pietist bias. Parker J. Palmer is a Quaker, R. Paul Stevens is an evangelical (taught at Regent), and Miroslav Volf is a Pentecostal (taught at Fuller Seminary and currently at Yale Divinity School).

7. With that said the focus of this series will revolve around Volf’s work. Primarily because he addresses the topic from a more holistic perspective. Of the sources I have looked at Volf deals with the questions people have in the most direct manner.

8. With some background information we now move to the central question of “What is Vocation?” Some feel that vocation is deeper and distinct (although not necessarily so) from merely a job. Others expressed that vocation can include a job but does not have to.

Next week We will look at what Christian thought has traditionally said about vocation and what that means for us today.

Paul

Esther is triumphant

2008-02-09T09:44:00.000-08:00

We finished the book of Esther on January 30th and discussed the Jewish holiday of Purim which came about as a result of the happenings in the book of Esther.

The first week of February fell on Ash Wednesday. (Sarah hosted a Fat Tuesday pancake supper to ring in Lent). Instead of our traditional game night, the bridge attended Ash Wednesday services that evening.

Next week we look forward to Paul facilitating disscusion on vocation and calling. Hope to see you all there!

The end of Haman (but what of the Jews?)

2008-01-26T22:38:00.000-08:00

Third installment of Esther (chapters 6-7)

We left off last week with Haman (shake, shake, shake) building a gallows for Mordecai and planning to ask the king to hang him in the morning before they went together to dine with Queen Esther.

Meanwhile, the king had trouble sleeping and was reading through the record of chronicles. He noticed that a man named Mordecai had saved his life by telling of a plot to assassinate him. He asked what had been done for Mordecai to thank him. Learning that nothing had been done, he asked his servants who was around. Haman happened to be coming early (to try and get Mordecai hanged) and went to the king.

When the king asked what should be done for someone whom the king wished to honor, Haman (thinking that the king was to honor himself) gave grand plans. The king then informed Haman that he wished to honor Mordecai and that Haman should see to it that all he spoke of (thinking it was to be for him) should be done for Mordecai.

That night at the banquet, Queen Esther finally tells the king her problem. That she and all her people are to be killed and accuses Haman of masterminding the plot. Haman is sentenced to hang on the gallows that he had erected for Mordecai.

And now we have an end of Haman, but his plot to kill the Jews goes forward for a law sealed by the king's ring cannot be repealed.

Come Wednesday for the exciting conclusion. Remember to dress as a character from Esther (or in other costume).

Please pray these prayers:

+ Michelle's cut finger will heal quickly and cleanly

+ Sarah's test results (due in one week) show that she passed all areas

+ Kelli's dad will get into treatment at Loma Linda and treatment will shrink his prostate cancer till it is gone

+ Rachel will get into a good place physically and mentally to start trying again for a baby

+ Michelle's friend, Sara, will not have any complications due to gestational diabetes

+ Ashok will pass his architectural exam Wednesday 9am

+ Ellen and Alex will find the right place and make good decisions as the buy their first home

+ David offers praise that his voice over gig went well. Pray that he is able to get an internship with Clear Channel

+ Alex praises the opportunities that have come after getting his degree. He can't wait to 'see where the lord takes us'

Paraphrase of Psalm 57 by Leslie F. Brandt

Encompass me with Your love and mercy, gracious Lord; I have no security except in You. I am perpetually exposed to the destructive forces of this existence. I am in constant danger of losing the battle to the very passions and desires of my own nature. I can only submit myself to You and believe that You will fulfill Your purposes in me. Your love, O God, is steadfast; Your grace is everlasting. Even when I am beaten down by depression and ensnared by me weaknesses and frailties and my own lust threatens to devour me, You are my God, and You will not let me go. I am determined to serve You, O Lord. May my life be a continual thank-offering to You, I shall sing Your praises forever.

Hamantaschen and hangings...

2008-01-18T15:22:00.000-08:00

Wednesday, January 16th we had our third installment of Esther (Chapters 4-5).

We started the evening with, long awaited, singing (thanks David and Michelle) and welcomed some new members (Hi Doug and Melissa). Jewish tradition surrounding the Book of Esther (Megilla) dictates that people should: Read the Megillah out loud, Be festive and rejoicing, Give Gifts of fruits and nuts, and Offer gifts to the poor. So we had snacks of fruit and nuts and Hamantaschen (butter cookies with Apricot preserves). Hamantaschen are three cornered as Haman's hat. Then Michelle read aloud the next chapters. Of course, we continued to blot out the name of Haman with our noisemakers!
We had some discussion about the 'historicalness' of Esther and talked about what is happening with our main characters. Haman has already ordered (in the king's name) the destruction of the Jews and appears to continue to gain favor with the king who appears to let others take the lead. When Esther risks her life by approaching the king without an invitation, the king spares her and offers to give her whatever she wants up to half his kingdom without even waiting to hear what her petition was. Despite the king's repeated offers, Esther does not ask immediately, but asks the king and Haman to return the next day to find out.

Later... Haman's wife urges him (and he agrees) to build a gallows to hang Mordecai in the morning, then he can "go merrily with the king to dinner" with Esther.

Why did Esther wait to tell the King her petition?
Is it too late for Mordecai?
Can Esther's plan work without Mordecai?
Will Esther be killed as well when her heritage is discovered?
Tune in next Wednesday, same bat time (7pm) same bat channel (UMC room 308)!

To offer gifts to the poor, everyone present offered to bring items to make sack lunches for Harvest Home (a home for homeless, pregnant women).

Remember to dress as a character from Esther on January 30th!

As the new year progresses, there is a lot of business. Please peruse the calendar and read your e-mail. Look below for details (or click on the item on the calendar).

Please pray these prayers:
* Ashok asks for guidance for his mother and brother in making decisions regarding his father's illness
* Alex asks for prayers for his friend, Mike, who has suddenly gone blind in one eye (accomodate to different vision and protect other eye)
* Doug and Melissa ask for alleviation of pain for his Aunt Kay who suffers from fibromyalgia* Chris prays for understanding and discernment regarding her Uncle Kas who is unable to live alone following his wife's passing and is going to a retirement home against his will
* Alex asks for the lord to take the opportunity to come into his brother's life and have a ransforming experience on his brother, Zack, who recently lost his job
* Pray for Chelsea and Jim Kirtley, Char Smith, Sam and Emily Payne and their parents Dennis and Sue for the loss of Dee Payne (Char and Dennis's mother, and Chelsea, Sam and Emily's grandmother) who died over the weekend* Chris asks for patience and guidance in her relationship with her mother-in-law
* We pray that Sarah has passed all parts of her test (but especially the seismic portion) as she awaits the results in two weeks
* David asks for prayers that everything goes well with his job
We thank God for his many blessings, including:
* Gordon (Chris' husband) is out of the hospital
* Steve (Shannon's brother) is out of the hospital and recovering well
* Ashok is doing well after a hard last year
* David has a voice over gig
* Emily's friends from high school, Melissa/Brent are engaged. This is a big step for them as neither one has had good matrimonial models in their families

What Hymns Would You Like To See In A New United Methodist Hymnal?

2008-01-17T20:17:00.001-08:00

This coming April the General Conference of the UMC will consider the recommendation for a new hymnal. This is the first of several research questions from the General Board of Discipleship. We want to know which hymns or songs you would like to see included. This survey will allow you to suggest titles to be considered for inclusion:

. Up to five titles from the current *United Methodist Hymnal.*

. Up to five titles from *The Faith We Sing.*

. Up to five titles not in either collection.

*You may only complete the survey one time, so do not click the link below until you are ready to suggest titles*. Once you have accessed the survey, you will not be allowed to return to it a second time, even if you did not complete it the first time or if you later wish to change your responses. *Final date to complete this survey is January 31, 2008*.

When ready to complete the survey, here's the link: http://www.gbod.org/worship/default.asp?act=reader&item_id=45894

Vocation, calling and work

2008-01-17T20:16:00.001-08:00

Let Paul know directly what you would like to discuss in February! Here is his question...

What are the questions or concerns that you have regarding your faith and your job or career? I came up with the idea for this series based on the comments that people made during Ellen's Micah 6:8 study. These comments revolved around jobs and where God fit into those jobs. I believe that there were also questions revolving around calling as well. Because there are a few ways that I can go with a study on calling, vocation, and work I want to try and focus the series to best address what people are concerned about or have questions about.

Paul Deveaux, Parish Associate

Super-Sub Combos

2008-01-17T20:13:00.001-08:00

M eals for Super Bowl Sunday are being sold Sunday, January 20 and Sunday, January 27 (last day to order). The combos are $12 which include a sandwich with your choice of fillings (meat or vegetarian) and several side items and a drink. All proceeds are for our Youth Program. Be sure to visit the UMYF table during coffee hour to place your order on Sunday!

WANTED

2008-01-17T20:05:00.000-08:00

WANTED - VOLUNTEERS FOR A FUN CHARITY EVENT!!!!

WHEN: Thursday, February 21, 2008
SHIFT: 10am to 4pm

WHERE: The Daily Grill
2501 Colorado Ave.
Santa Monica, CA

WHAT: The Muscular Dystrophy Association is hosting a fun event to raise money to help out people with Muscular Dystrophy. We have recruited prominent business people in the Santa Monica area to agree to be mock ‘arrested’ for one hour of their day. We will be picking them up at their place of business, putting them in handcuffs, and bringing them to the Pacific Dining Car where they will raise their $1600 ‘bail money’ for the Muscular Dystrophy Association. We will feed them and give incentives and prizes to those who raise their bail. As a volunteer, you would do one of the following:

· DRIVERS (7) – Drive to the offices of the ‘Jailbirds’, pick them up, and transport them to the restaurant. NOTE: A valid California Driver’s License and proof of insurance is necessary for this role.
· Arresting Officers (7 needed) – Ride with the driver and actually physically ‘arrest’ our ‘jailbirds’. Enthusiastic, outgoing people are needed to make a big deal out of the fact that the business owner has a big heart
· Photographer (1 needed)- Capture the friendly felons while they network and dine. We will provide the camera.
· Greeters (2)—Lead the felons through the jail to take their mugshots, meet the judge and more!
· Judge (1)—Announce the bailraisers as they enter.

CONTACT INFO: If interested, please contact Suzanne Gutterman, Program Coordinator, at the Muscular Dystrophy Association at 310-450-9032 or sgutterman@mdausa.org.

Learning, helping and having fun!

2008-01-14T22:06:00.000-08:00

The bLT met last Saturday to discuss the next few months of the bridge. Please remember the box in the bridge room for suggestions, comments, concerns, etc. We planned for Bible studies and topic discussions for the near future (learning). We discussed community service projects to do as a group (helping) and delegated "non-wednesday night" fellowship (fun). Beginning planning was begun for our Spring Retreat!

:)

Megilla and graggers

2008-01-14T21:45:00.000-08:00

January 2nd was our monthly game night!

January 9th began our study of Esther. We started by making graggers (A Purim gragger, also called "ra'ashan" (noisemaker), used when Haman's name is mentioned during the reading of the Megilla, as tradition dictates, to blot out the name of evil). While Michelle read the Book of Esther - the Megillah ("scroll") we dutifully used our noisemakers every time the name of Haman was mentioned. If you are wondering why, read the first three chapters of Esther.

We will continue with Esther next week as we enjoy "Hamantaschen" (come and find out what these are) and continue to shake our graggers!

Please pray these prayers:

* continued prayers for Chris and her husband Gordon who is in and out of the hospital with pneumonia
* Chris' family Margie, Ruth & Ernie Ono who are coping with a death and illnesses in the family
* Anna's rabbit (Sarah's roommate) that has a lump in its paw
* continued prayers for Alex's brother, wife and nephew
* Alex's grandmother who is suffering from alzheimer's disease and is on hospice and his aunt who is taking care of the grandmother and is experiencing stress and high blood pressure
* wisdom and discernment for Alex as he continues his search for a job
* safe travels for Rebecca's father

Praises:
* Michelle now has more hours at her job
* David has a voiceover job
* Rebecca's father is coming to visit
* Shannon's brother, Steve, is out of the hospital and has stopped hiccuping!

PARTY!

2007-12-25T19:03:00.000-08:00

December 19th was our annual Christmas Party and potluck. We had awesome food (not all desserts this year!). Santa again put in his appearance during the gift exchange, this time with a little surprise with him. Poor Vincent had his gifts 'stolen' several times, even his little doggie friend. David provided the Christmas Carols.

Have a wonderful Christmas! Our next meeting is January 2 for Game Night. Sarah will be at Disneyland for New Year's, contact her directly if you want to go.

Happy New Year!

2007-12-15T13:14:00.000-08:00

The first Sunday in Advent is New Year's Day in the Church. As we begin to prepare for the celebration of the birth of the Savior, God's gift of love, the Advent season also reminds us to wait with hopeful anticipation for the time when Christ will come again in power and glory at the close of the age.

The third week of advent is a time for Joy. We light the pink candle on the Advent wreath, sometimes called the Mary candle which traditionally represents Joy. Mary's song of Praise and Joy from the Gospel of Luke remind us of Joy even in uncertain times. Her words can guide us to look for the Joy of God, even when things may be uncertain in our lives.

Wednesday, December 12 - Rachel concluded her two part series on Advent with additional insight into the Advent Season. We then participated in lighting the first three candles of the Advent wreath (first = Hope, second = Peace, third = Joy) with readings and song, singing > after lighting the pink candle.

After selected readings from the old and new testaments, Rachel led us in creating Christmas ornaments from symbols that we noted from the readings. Wow, we have some artistic people in this group. Make sure you come by on Wednesday, December 19 for the Christmas Party and Potluck (check calendar for details). You can see the water in the desert, children playing with snakes, angels, stars, sheep, etc. Be sure not to miss the ferocious beast (and his girlfriend)!

Please pray these prayers:
* Kelli and her family - illness
* Kelli's friend - loss
* Michelle - finding a job, Kelli - being happy in her job, Ellen - decision of job transfer, Alex - wisdom in deciding his future job.
* Alex and his brother, sister-in-law, nephew - illness, separation
* Praises: Sarah - safe and happy return from her trip, Alex - graduation, Victor - his many blessings since his return

December 5th, 2007

2007-12-08T21:44:00.000-08:00

We ended up not having a game night this month as another opportunity presented itself. Cindy McQuade (from Upward Bound House) was very impressed with the showing that the bridge had at Westside Thanksgiving. The Board of UBH offered seats to bridge members to go to the UBH Annual Fundraising Dinner event as their guests.

Next Wednesday is Advent Part 2 with Rachel! And remember the Christmas potluck and gift exchange on the 19th!

November 28, 2007

2007-12-01T21:34:00.000-08:00

We had a great time on Wednesday with Rachel facilitating part one of her Advent series. We learned about Advent as separate from Christmas. It is actually a time of preparation for the celebration of Jesus' birth (similar to Lent as a time of preparation for Easter). Members discussed how they celebrate the season. We learned about the meanings of some of the things that we see at this time of year. Advent Calendar, Advent Wreath, significance of colors, ornaments, candles, trees...

Rachel also brought materials to make an Advent Wreath for the bridge room which we lit during a short devotional. I hope to see everyone at the bridge meetings in December as we continue lighting candles (yes, even on game night) until we have them all lit at our Christmas Potluck and gift exchange on December 19th.

Please feel free to bring items to decorate our bridge room. I brought a Nativity Scene and we have the Advent Wreath.

Please pray these prayers:

* Pray for Ellen's friend Karen who is suffering from MS
* Continued prayers for Rachel's family, especially her brother, David, and Eliza's family for their terrible and unexpected loss.
* Pray for Alex's nephew who is suffering from seizures and Alex's brother and his wife
* Pray for Michelle to find a job to use her wonderful talents
* Pray for David to gain understanding in deeper faith
* Pray for Victor who gives praise the many blessings that he experiences in his life, but prays for stronger faith and that God will touch his ex-fiancee to bring out the faith that he sees in her.

Shannon

A suggestion for Christmas presents

2007-11-27T20:03:00.000-08:00

* * * FYI * * *

If you are looking for alternative ideas for Christmas, here is an opportunity that "lets you lend to a specific entrepreneur in the developing world - empowering them to lift themselves out of poverty."

Basically, you donate $25+ to your "account" and then you pick which businesses you want to LEND the money to (in $25 increments). You get updates on their repayment AND when they have repaid the loan, your account is credited back with the original amount & you get to either withdraw the $ or choose another needy business! Reach out & touch someone this holiday season & the whole year long!

http://www.kiva.org/app.php

Christmas Caroling

2007-11-25T19:13:00.000-08:00

The Path Spiritual Book Store introduces:
CHRISTMAS IS HERE and we're bringing you good cheer!

Performed by THE SERAPHIM
(including our own Rachel Eaton & Michelle Deveaux)

Saturday Dec. 8th 8:00 p.m.

The Path Bookstore
813 Torrance Blvd., Redondo Beach, CA 90277
310-944-3780

Cover: $5.00 Adults & Children

Santa Monica FUMC Christmas!

2007-11-25T19:07:00.000-08:00

If you'd like to volunteer either night to be an usher/greeter, email Phyllis at tootiejo@roadrunner.com. I will be working the event on Saturday. Hope to see you there!

Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 1st & 2nd at 7:30pm

Magnificat by John Rutter Narrated by Peter Graves
Performers: FUMC Chancel Choir, Santa Monica College Concert Chorale, Mark Twain Ringers, Los Angeles Concert Orchestra

Advanced tickets ($15) are on sale through the Church office (310-393-8258)

Whitney

Update: November 19th, 2007

2007-11-19T19:53:00.000-08:00

Sorry, the blog wasn't updated sooner, but this week has been FULL.

Last WEDNESDAY, Michelle facilitated a great program on worship. She started by going straight to the source and we read several selections from the Bible (old and new testament). Discussion then veered to our own thoughts of worship and how these reflect (or don't) the passages from the Bible.

PRAYER requests:
* Illnesses: Trent-siezures (Alex & Ellen's nephew), Joey-not eating (Rebecca's nephew), Kelli's mother and grandmother.
* Rachel's family, especially her brother (David). Eliza's family.
* Jobs: Kelli, Alex (post grad), Michelle (interview 11-20 at 1:45 pm), Ellen (transfer?).
* Praises: Alex is almost done with school (party Dec. 16), Shannon's father is feeling much better and is holding his own.

FRIDAY, we sold organic, free trade coffee at the UMW boutique and several new people joined us (yeah!). Hope you can all make it to the next bridge night for Advent discussion.

SATURDAY was our progressive dinner. Thank you everyone who hosted! We had wonderful food and fellowship as we progressed from soup to dessert at four different houses. (any attendees who would like to pitch in a few dollars for expenses, please give $ to Ellen).

SUNDAY was Gavin Kirtley's Baptism!

Upcoming. Upcoming. Upcoming. Upcoming. Upcoming.

NO BRIDGE THIS WEDNESDAY 11-21-07

If you're missing the bridge and want a service opportunity: Wednesday from 6-9pm setup for Westside
Community Thanksgiving. They're also taking donations that evening of: boxes of stuffing, cranberry sauce, instant potatoes, canned green beans, canned turkey gravy, gently used clothing or blankets, monetary donations. Thursday volunteers : lunch is 11a-3p, and clean-up starts afterwards. This event is taking place at the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium at
1855 Main Street, Santa Monica.

AFTER stuffing yourself on turkey and pie, come by Michelle & Paul's for a chill session:
* Who? You!
* What? Paul and Michelle's "yeah, Christmas is here" kickback!
* When? November 22nd (Thanksgiving) at 6:30pm
* Where? The Deveaux home: 2635 28th St Apt #8 Santa Monica, CA 90405
* Why? To celebrate each other, decorate for Christmas, & watch great Christmas flicks. And we all need yet another reason to eat on T-Day.
* How? With our bodies and hearts! Awwww....

Well, it looks like the holiday rush is upon us!

Shannon

Update: November 7, 2007

2007-11-08T17:59:00.000-08:00

Saturday, November 3rd, 2007 marked the first transition of the bridge leadership team. The bLT has done a great job in not only bringing great program, fun and service to the members, but also in defining our mission statement, developing a working timeline for Wednesday nights and keeping us informed about all the great plans.

Gracias to Amy for being the only one in bridge history to finish a book (she did two!). Congratulations on your new job. We all miss you. Ashok, thanks for your service and leadership. We also thank you for your great place to party at the beach. Just kidding, we all thank you for your time and effort to make our group run smoothly as well as your hospitality. With all that she had going on at home (day and night:), Jen answered e-mails and contributed to the organization of our successful group, even though she was often unable to come. Thanks! We owe a giant thanks to Rachel for starting this blog and keeping it up to date! For keeping up the calendar and the e-mail list. And for making sure that we all know what's going on and what we can look forward to each week.

I am excited to follow such a dedicated team, although I get the feeling that you made it look easier than it is. Helping newcomers Shannon and David are Sarah and Ellen who will continue their service for the next six months. Thank you both for everything that you have done for our group and for continuing to give your talents to provide a great transition for the bridge leadership team.

Thanks are also necessary for everyone (both on the bLT and not) who facilitated programs for us on Wednesday nights. You have given us all things to think about as we go about our daily lives.

Well, I actually just came here to say that we had an awesome Game Night on Nov 7 that would have been enjoyed by "Santa Claus who ate all his Halloween candy in one day" and "Toto with a brand new squeeky toy". (if you don't understand that, you should come to the next game night (Dec 7!) and to encourage everyone to come next Wednesday when Noel facilitates a great program.

See you Wednesday,
Shannon

Update - September 10

2007-09-10T14:24:00.000-07:00

Hello all! Below are the last two bridge Wednesday night programs - in case you missed them. See you soon! - Rachel

Creating Justice - Week One with Ellen (August 29)
He has told you, O mortal, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you
but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?
- Micah 6:8

What does it mean to "do justice"? When you think of justice, what do you think of? And what in the world does it have to do with peace?

"My father was a pastor. He was very gentle, very human. From him I got the caring to treat patients. When we would go and visit sick people together, he would pray. I would ask, 'Why can't you give them tablets or prescriptions?' He said, 'I am not a doctor.' I decided then that prayer is not enough. People must take things into their own hands, Asking God does not change anything. He gives us the ability to say yes or no. You must use your hands, you mind. When I receive women here who are hungry, I can't say, 'God bless you.' I have to give them something to eat. When someone is suffering, I can't tell her about God, I have to treat her pain. You can't hide yourself in religion. Not a solution."
-Dr. Denis Mukwege (Glamour, 9/2007; pg. 411)

Is the above an example of doing justice?

What do you believe about prayer and action? Does God intend for one to exist without the other?

Read: James 2:14-26 (Ephesians 2:8-10)

Faith is...

"Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen."
-Hebrews 1:11

"The practical piece for me is to do everything that we know to do in the natural (organize, mobilize, raise awareness, Do Justly, Love Mercy, etc..." while believing God for everything that needs to take place in the supernatural. Doing both these pieces at once has become my definition of faith."
-Keith (UMW Justice Workshop Leader)

What else is faith, and how do you see faith and justice as being related, if at all?

Ideas...

Community Food Security
Economic Justice
Environmental Justice
Health Care
Immigration
Public Education
Militarism, Peace and National Security

**Challenges for the week: Starting with ourselves**
Pay Attention! Where has God already opened door for you?
Where have you already been given opportunities to be God's hands in the world?
Where do you think God might be leading you that you have not yet acted upon?

Lord, make me an instrument of Thy peace;
where there is hatred, let me sow love;
where there is injury, pardon;
where there is doubt, faith;
where there is despair, hope;
where there is darkness, light;
and where there is sadness, joy.

O Divine Master,
grant that I may not so much seek to be consoled as to console;
to be understood, as to understand;
to be loved, as to love;
for it is in giving that we receive,
it is in pardoning that we are pardoned,
and it is in dying that we are born to eternal life.
Amen

-St. Francis of Assisi - 13th century

____________________________________________________________________________________

Peace Talk with Kellie (August 22)

Peace unto you! (Response) And also to you!

1) 2 Minutes to stretch
2) Last week...

Peace can be interpreted in many ways...
1) Freedom from disturbance, outward or inward
2) As is Be Well, or Peace instead of bad health or bad things from enemies
3) Peace as a greeting
4) Holding one's Peace
5) Peace as a disposition

3) Bible Quote: (Ecclesiastes 3:1, 8)
To every thing there is a season, and a time for every purpose under the heaven... A time to love, and a time to hate; a time of ward, and a time of peace...

What does this passage mean to you?

4) Bible Quote: (John 14:27)
I am leaving you with a gift - peace of mind and heart! And the peace I give isn't fragile like the peace the world gives. So don't be troubled or afraid.

What does this passage mean to you?

Inspirational People - excerpts from Nobel Peace Prize Winner speaches - www.nobelprize.org

14th Dalai lama - 1989

As a Buddhist monk, my concern extends to all members of the human family and, indeed, to all sentient beings who suffer. I believe all suffering is caused by ignorance. People inflict pain on others in the selfish pursuit of their happiness or satisfaction. Yet true happiness comes from a sense of inner peace and contentment, which in turn must be achieved through the cultivation of altruism, of love and compassion and elimination of ignorance, selfishness and greed.

The problems we face today, violent conflicts, destruction of nature, poverty, hunger, and so on, are human-created problems which can be resolved through human effort, understanding and the development of a sense of brotherhood and sisterhood. We need to cultivate a universal responsibility for one another and the planet we share. Although I have found my own Buddhist religion helpful in generating love and compassion, even for those we consider our enemies, I am convinced that everyone can develop a good heart and a sense of universal responsibility with or without religion.

Martin Luther King, Jr - 1964

After contemplation, I conclude that this award which I receive on behalf of that movement is a profound recognition that nonviolence is the answer to the crucial political and moral question of our time - - the need for man to overcome oppression and violence without resorting to violence and oppression. Civilization and violence are antithetical concepts. Negroes of the United States, following the people of India, have demonstrated that nonviolence is not sterile passivity, but a powerful moral force which makes for social transformation. Sooner or later all the people of the world will have to discover a way to live together in peace, and thereby transform this pending cosmic elegy into a creative psalm of brotherhood. If this is to be achieved, man must evolve for all human conflict a method which rejects revenge, aggression and retaliation. The foundation of such a method is love.

I refuse to accept the cynical notion that nation after nation must spiral down a militaristic stairway into the hell of thermonuclear destruction. I believe that unarmed truth and unconditional love will have the final word in reality. This is why right temporarily defeated is stronger than evil triumphant. I believe that even amid today's motor bursts and whining bullets, there is still hope for a brighter tomorrow. I believe that wounded justice, lying prostrate on the blood-flowing streets of our nations, can be lifted from this dust of shame to reign supreme among the children of men. I have the audacity to believe that peoples everywhere can have three meals a day for their bodies, education and culture for their minds, and dignity, equality and freedom for their spirits. I believe that what self-centered men have torn down men other-centered can build up. I still believe that one day mankind will bow before the altars of God and be crowned triumphant over war and bloodshed, and nonviolent redemptive good will proclaim the rule of the land. "And the lion and the lamb shall lie down together and every man shall sit under his own vine and fig tree and none shall be afraid." I still believe that We Shall overcome!

Mother Teresa - 1979

You too try to bring that presence of God in your family, for the family that prays together stays together. And I think that we in our family don't need bombs and guns, to destroy to bring peace — just get together, love one another, bring that peace, that joy, that strength of presence of each other in the home. And we will be able to overcome all the evil that is in the world.

The other day I received 15 dollars from a man who has been on his back for twenty years, and the only part that he can move is his right hand. And the only companion that he enjoys is smoking. And he said to me: I do not smoke for one week, and I send you this money. It must have been a terrible sacrifice for him, but see how beautiful, how he shared, and with that money I bought bread and I gave to those who are hungry with a joy on both sides, he was giving and the poor were receiving. This is something that you and I — it is a gift of God to us to be able to share our love with others. And let it be as it was for Jesus. Let us love one another as he loved us. Let us love Him with undivided love. And the joy of loving Him and each other — let us give now — that Christmas is coming so close. Let us keep that joy of loving Jesus in our hearts. And share that joy with all that we come in touch with. And that radiating joy is real, for we have no reason not to be happy because we have no Christ with us. Christ in our hearts, Christ in the poor that we meet, Christ in the smile that we give and the smile that we receive. Let us make that one point: That no child will be unwanted, and also that we meet each other always with a smile, especially when it is difficult to smile.

What do you think of these quotes?

Update - July 27

2007-07-27T13:59:00.001-07:00

A huge thank you to Rebecca for leading us in an enlightening Bible Study on Light vs. Darkness! Below are the notes from Parts 2 and 3.

Light vs. Darkness: Part 2
"...and God said 'Let there be light'..." -Gen 1:3

Week 2: Light vs. Darkness in us
-What characteristics on both sides are in us?
-What can we do to nourish and nurture our light?
-Letting go of the darkness in our past.

*As we learned last week, without the darkness qualities in the world, we would not be able to see the light and vice versa*

Luke 18:9-14
What is the message in this text about the dark and light qualities?

Exercise 1:
A. On one piece of paper write 3 traits/qualities about that person that are good and may represent the "light" in them.
B. On the same paper write 3 traits/qualities you least admire or can't stand in other people.
C. On the second piece of paper write one thing that you have asked for forgiveness for but still haven't forgiven yourself for.

Luke 6:39-42
Are we more judgmental of others or ourselves?

1 John 1:5-10
What does this say about how we are to step into the light and admitting our darkness?
(What about looking about it from truth vs. lives and deceiving?)

Exercise 2:
A. Owning the dark qualities
B. Embracing the light qualities

*Psalm 32:1-5
How does this relate to owning both sides of our qualities?

John 3:16-21
Is your spiritual growth more gradual or can you pinpoint one event that brought you into the light?
Can those around you see the transformation in your life so that they wonder what has changed and want to imitate it or know more?
What does verse 21 mean in terms of this past exercise and owning both types of qualities?

Mark 11:25
"Whenever you stand praying, forgive, if you have anything against anyone; so that your Father in heaven may also forgive you your trespasses."

Matthew 18:21-22
Do we hold this true for ourselves?
How does holding onto your past wounds or times when we work from our dark qualities keep you from realizing God's true potential for you?

Forgiving Yourself - The Divine Example
Forgiving yourself is not specifically addressed in the Bible, but there are principles regarding forgiveness that should be applied. For example, when God forgives us, it states that He remembers our sins no more (Jeremiah 31:34). This does not mean that our all-knowing Father God forgets, but rather, because He forgives us, He chooses not to bring up our sin in a negative way. Peter said, "In truth I perceive that God shows no partiality" (Acts 10:34). Applying "no partiality" to the issues of forgiveness, God does not choose to forgive one person and not another. He forgives everyone who believes in Jesus Christ. Applying His "no partiality" standards to ourselves, it is just as important to forgive ourselves as it is to forgive others. Forgiving yourself is not about forgetting. It is about not bringing the offense up to yourself in negative ways. Forgiving yourself is simply letting go of what you are holding against yourself so that you can move on with God. If God has moved on, shouldn't we do the same? Philippians 4:9 states that we are to put into practice those things that we have learned from God and from His Word. To continue to rehearse in our thoughts the events of our transgression, opposes Philippians 4:8 which tells us to dwell on whatever is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, and admirable.

Dear Heavenly Father, I understand that there is nothing to gain by holding myself in unforgiveness and there is everything to gain by releasing myself from unforgiveness and beginning the process of healing. I want to move forward and make a positive difference in the future. I confess the ungodly accountability, self-abasement, and the vows I have made to never forgive myself. Because Jesus died for my sins, I choose to forgive myself--to no longer punish myself and be angry with myself. I forgive myself for letting this hurt control me and for hurting others out of my hurt. I repent of this behavior and my attitude. I ask for Your forgiveness and healing. God, help me to NEVER again retain unforgiveness of myself or others. Thank you for loving me and for Your grace to move forward with You. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

-from website www.allaboutgod.com

Colossians 3:12-17
Do you feel you hold the qualities it mentions?
What does this mean in terms of forgiveness, both of yourself and others?
Does this give direction for how to carry out our lives and deal with people?
What are the things in your life that hinder you from embracing these qualities and walking in the light?
What things can you do in your life to nourish or bring out the qualities mentioned in this verse?

Light vs. Darkness: Part 3
"It is you who light my lamp; the Lord, my God, lights up my darkness." Psalm 18:28

Week 3: Light vs. Darkness in the world
*As we learned last week, we all have both dark and light qualities and it is only when we understand that we do sin and fall short and forgive ourselves that we are able to concentrate on being the light in the world God wants us to be.*

Colossians 3:12-17
Do you feel you hold the qualities it mentions?
What does this mean in terms of forgiveness, both of yourself and others?
Does this give direction for how to carry out our lives and deal with people?
What are the things in your life that hinder you from embracing these qualities and walking in the light?
What things can you do in your life to nourish or bring out the qualities mentioned in this verse?

What are the things in your life that hinder you from embracing these qualities and walking in the light?

Exercise 1: What qualities show light to the world (ie: glowing, smiling, compassionate, peaceful)

John 3:19-21
Do you do what is true and walk in the light? Is it hard sometimes to remain in the light but show our darkness instead?

2 Corinthians 6:14-18
What is this saying about tolerance for unbelievers? What does this say about how we minister?

Isaiah 50:10-11
What does this say about walking in our own light?

Job 28:1-11
What is the deeper meaning here about bringing our light to the world? How should we be miners in a dark world? Why does he use this reference?

John 1:4-9; John 8:12; John 12:35-36
Where does our light come from? Is there a deeper message here?

Psalm 119:105
"Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path."
How can we help be that to each other?

Isaiah 42:6-7
What does this mean for our calling? How do we open the eyes that are blind?

Psalm 139:11-12
Is your light bright enough that you aren't affected by the darkness?

Exercise 2: What kinds of things help us nourish or connect with the light in us?

Things to reflect on:
How doe we reflect Christ's light in our lives?
What helps in our lives to make sure our light doesn't go out?
Which friends can you lean on when your light is dim?
How can you help nourish other people's lights?

Thanks again to Rebecca! She obviously put a LOT of work into this study and her light certainly shown through!

Next Wednesday = Game Night!

Tomorrow = Relay for Life! Come out and walk, come out and support the team, or support the team in prayer.

Hope to see you soon.

Yours, Rachel

Update - July 17

2007-07-17T13:37:00.000-07:00

Rebecca presented us with a great Bible study on "Light vs. Darkness" on Wednesday night. She gave us an overview of her three part series...

Week 1: Laying the ground work
Week 2: Light vs. Darkness in the US
-What characteristics on both sides are in us?
-What can we do to nourish and nurture our light?
-letting go of the darkness in our past
Week 3: Light vs. Darkness in the world

Then, we got into the thick of it...

Definition of Light:
1. The electromagnetic radiation with a wavelength that is VISIBLE to the eye
2. A type of energy
3. Something that makes vision possible
4. Something that provides information or clarification (as in "threw some light on the subject")
5. A state of awareness or understanding, especially as derived from a particular source
Syn: aglow, bright, brillian, CLEAR, glowing, luminous, radieant, vivid, UNOBSCURED, shining

Design reference: without light, there would be no form, color, or texture.
Luminosity: the quality of being luminous, emitting or REFLECTING light.

What does it feel like to be in a room without light? Low light?
How does it feel when the light is turned on?

Gen 1:1-5 & Gen 1:14-19
"And God said 'Let there be light" ...what was He talking about? How does He describe the universe without that light?

1 John 1:1-5
if God = Light and God = Love, then Light = Love
So Walking in the Light could represent Walking in Love.

1 John 2:8-11
Can you see the connection of Walking in Love as we discussed with Ashok and Walking in the Light? Does it more clearly define "Walking in the Light" when you think about it this way?

Do we try to justify our actions when we are not living in the light?
What does it mean to the world to have that light, our light in it?

Philippians 2:14-15
Is your life shining brightly, or is it shrouded by negativity?
People around us or in the world that have this light or luminosity?

Ephesians 5:1-14
So THIS is what living in the light is?
How difficult is this to do on a daily basis?
Do you feel like you're going through the motions, or living in the dark after reading this?

What is the most important thing to take away from these verses?

Matthew 5:14-16
Even with our imperfections and "failed" attempts at living in the light, what is this saying to us?

Is it more important to concentrate on this verse and what that means in our lives? Or the previous (Eph 5:1-14)?

To think about:
-Are you living as a beacon of God's light? or a dim flame?
-In what ways do we nurture and nourish our lights?
-How do we make sure our light is visible to the world?
-And that no one extinguishes or dims it?
-In what ways to you consider you show your light to the world?

A Chinese Proverb
If there is light in the soul, there will be beauty in the person.
If there is beauty in the person, thee will be harmony in the house.
If there is harmony in the house, there will be order in the nation.
If there is order in the nation, there will be peace in the world.

Thanks, Rebecca! This is fantastic.

Upcoming events that have been planned include:
August 25 = hiking in Temescal Canyon area followed by BBQ in the park (we're going to invite other church young adult groups to this event as an outreach attempt. Be sure to invite any folks you meet at church who might be interested and friends, etc...)
September 21-23 = FALL RETREAT!!! Mark your calendars now. Ashok is the "point person" on this one and will update us on his findings soon. We're thinking WINE TASTING!

That's all for now, folks. Enjoy the rest of your week and I hope to see you soon at one function or another.

Yours in Christ,
Rachel

Update - June 29

2007-06-29T12:59:00.000-07:00

Well, things have lightened up enough for me to be able to take the time to provide an update from our most recent meeting. I apologize for falling behind. Please be assured that regardless of my busy schedule I most definitely take the time to make sure that the right column of our blog is up to date as well at the Google Calendar. So, be sure to keep track of those postings on a regular basis.

So, Ashok led us in our final installment of "Love" this past Wednesday with Sarah's help.

We discussed "how Christians can demonstrate love to the world."

Love Your Neighbor
Mark 12:30-31

Honor Others
Romans 12:9-21

Recognize Diversity
1 Corinithians 12:12-27

Loving our Enemies and Striving for Mercy
Luke 6:27-36

Ashok and Sarah shook things up a bit this week by having us play out two scenarios. First David and me volunteered and acted out a scene in which a creative writer with ambition works for a fortune cookie company writing fortunes to pay the bills. The boss isn't concerned with creativity or "good work" but simply needs productivity and efficiency. How can we show love in this situation.

Noel and Shannon played out the second scene between a parent and child struggling over whether or not the "child" will go live in another country (post college). The parent feels as if they're acting in the child's best interest, where the child disagrees. How can we show love in this situation.

We discussed how familial relationships can be the most difficult.

A huge thanks goes out to Ashok (and Amy and Sarah) for this enlightening study. Join us on July 11 for a program with Rebecca. No meeting on July 4th. If you don't have plans for July 4th and didn't receive an email from me about our unofficial get together - let me know.

Relay for Life (Cancer Walk) is approaching fast. We still need walkers and financial contributions. Visit the link (at right) to join the team or give a little dough. If you're available to stand by the Wesley Walkers (our team name) table during coffee hour on Sunday morning - please do. Our concentration will be to garner support and awareness of the event.

See you soon!

Yours in Christ,
Rachel

Update - May 14

2007-05-14T15:32:00.000-07:00

What a retreat! I hope that everyone who attended had as good a time as I did. One thing I can say, I am SO sleepy right now.

I can't wait for the next one. A HUGE thanks goes out to Ellen for all the organizing she did and for those who drove and helped pack and helped cook and prepare food and drink and who helped clean, etc... The activities were fun, the weather was fantastic, our relationships were deepened, our surroundings were beautiful and there was lots of laughing - can't beat that. Brad's time with us added even more and truly brought the entire event back around to our reasons for it all. Thanks, Brad.

So, when are we going on our next one?!

This coming Wednesday, Amy leads us in Part 2 of our study on 1 John. Here are some notes from Part 1...

The First Epistle of John (1 John)

Who was John writing to?
-Either churches in Asia Minor (modern day Turkey) or Parthia (modern day Iran)
-Churches he was associated with, yet absent from

Some themes found in First John:
-Love, light, truth, life, sin among Christians/AntiChrist

About this "letter by John"
-It may not be a letter, it has many characteristics of a Sermon and lacks some qualities of a letter (opening, closing).
-It may not be written by John, some believe it was written by a follower of John, relying on what he had learned from John.
-As little as we know about the author, we know even less about the intended audience, but many of the themes can be applied to our lives today.

What was going on when John wrote this letter?
-Written around 90 CE (Middle Roman Age)
-After initial persecution of Christians by Nero
-Possibly in response to docetism (the belief that Jesus did not come to earth in bodily form)

What else do we know about John?
-The John who wrote, or highly influenced this letter, was the same John who was among Jesus' closest disciples and also wrote the Gospel of John, two other letters and Revelation.

Amy lifted up these questions/thoughts during our discussion of the first chapter:
-What is light?
-What does it mean to walk in the light?
-How does "confession" play into our sin? Is it difficult? -Accountability...
-What does it mean that Jesus' blood washes away our sins?
-What do we think of Jesus as Advocate?
-If we're truly following God, can we live our lives without sin?
-We are not truly complete - we always have farther to go.
-To what extent can we follow the examples of Jesus?

Amy gave us these questions to ponder before THIS Wednesday's meeting:
-In what ways are we witnesses to Jesus and the resurrection, 2000 years removed?
-In what ways can I choose to walk in light instead of darkness this week?
-Am I more likely to try to act as if I don't sin, rather than humbly confessing my sins (even to God)?
-Am I a person who claims to walk in the light, while deceiving myself because I hate others (to some extent or other)?
-How do my actions towards others reflect my relationship with God?

See you on Wednesday!

-Rachel, Smash Ball Champion #3

Update - May 1

2007-05-01T12:21:00.000-07:00

Hi all!

We had a really nice meeting last Wednesday with Mary Garbesi who is the Director of Caring Ministries and Spiritual Formation for the church. We began the evening talking more about "renewal" our theme for this month. Mary then talked about three words: being, doing and having and we discussed the order of those ideas and how culture makes it difficult to imagine it this way rather than having, doing and being. It was a very interesting discussion. Mary also shared some history and information about the Labyrinth and the practice of walking it.

This coming Sunday, May 6 is the next Labyrinth walk at church and you're all invited to walk it while it's open (10:30 - 12 noon {last entry at 11:15} or 2 - 4:30 pm {last entry at 3:45 pm}) and experience it for yourself. Mary is very interested in any feedback you'd be willing to share after your experience. It's different for everyone.

She also talked a little about Christian Meditation (a group practices this at our church every Wednesday evening).

Be sure to review the upcoming meetings and activities listed to the right and click on the calendar button if you'd like a more detailed view and description.

Please remember to email Ellen if you haven't already told her that you plan to attend the bridge retreat at Malibu Creek State Park on May 11 - 13!!!

This Wednesday night = Game Night!

Sunday = the Labyrinth Walk

See you all soon,

Rachel

Update - April 18

2007-04-18T15:32:00.000-07:00

Hi all,

We had a really nice meeting with Ellen and Jen leading last Wednesday. A great discussion about Renewal resulted with lots of attendees sharing. Here are a few notes from the evening:

We looked at Ecclesiastes 3:1-15, and Ephesians 4:21-24

We talked a little about the change in church calendar between lent and easter, moving from a season of solemn contemplation and reflection, to a season of joy, celebration and rebirth.

Then we discussed a few questions:
-Do you go through periods of seriousness verses joyfulness? Or do you tend to be in one frame of mind most of the time?
-What is renewal?
-How do you experience it?

Then we each wrote down a/some "renewal goals" that we thought we could accomplish (individually) in the next month or over a longer period of time.

It was a great evening. If you weren't able to be with us, look over the scriptures and think about the questions for yourself and write down a renewal goal that you feel you can stick to over the next month.

This Wednesday = Renewal: Part 2 with Ellen and Jen.

Be sure to visit the bridge calendar (use the button at the top of the right-hand bar) for all of our upcoming events!

Yours, Rachel

Update - April 3

2007-04-03T17:51:00.000-07:00

It's Holy Week. I hope it's going well for all of you. There is a lot going on at the church this week: namely the Maundy Thursday service at 7:30 pm and the Prayer Vigil on Friday (if you'd like to sign up for a time to pray during the vigil, let me know). Check the church website for all the details.

This past Wednesday was another great meeting with Ashok at the helm bringing us a thoughtful discussion about Suffering. Here are the notes:

What is the biblical perspective on the nature of suffering, perseverance, and seeking God's guidance through difficulty?
-Recalling Amy's study on Philippians: Ph 1:29, Ph 3:10-11
In our suffering we can identify with Christ's sacrifice for the redemption of our sins.
Suffering
Romans 8:18-28
-What should we be mindful of when we experience suffering?
-Do we need to know pain before the revelation of God's glory?
-Hope, patience and guidance: How do they bring us through a period of pain, loss or war?
-Does knowing abou God's purpose help us through a rough patch?
Perserverance
Ephesians 6:10-18
-In situations of conflict where should we seek strength?
-Suffering versus struggle, what's the difference?
Caring for others
John 9:1-6
-What is our role in helping others in need?
-Is there opportunity for the bridge to work for the benefit of others with our diverse skills?
More scripture readings on Suffering:
2 Corinthians 1:5; Colossians 1:24; Hebrews 2:10; 1 Peter 4:1

Thanks to Ashok for this thought provoking discussion.

This Wednesday is Game Night!

This Sunday is Easter!
(If you can lend a helping hand for Coffee Hour by bringing food or by being their to help - our lovely Hope Circle sisters will be appreciative!)

Have a great week. Alleluia!

Yours in Christ,

Rachel

Update - March 23

2007-03-23T15:20:00.000-07:00

Spring is here! I hope it's treating you well.

We had a great meeting on Wednesday night and the week before as well. Here are some notes from Part 2 & 3 of Humility:

Humility: Part 2
-Psalm 25:8-14
What's being said in this scripture?
Why are we called to be humble? What do we get out of it?
Who are the people who fear God?
-Matthew 11:25-30; John 13:14-15; 2 Chronicles 7:12-14
What are these scriptures saying? What are they saying about humility?
-The "Gain"
In Psalm 25:8-14 what do we gain by being humble? Why are worldly gains mentioned so often? Are worldly gains important? How does humility strengthen our discipleship?

Humility: Part 3
-Mark 9:33-37; Romans 12:1-18; 2 Corinthians 10:12; James 4:5-10
We made a "Do's and Don'ts" list from these scriptures pointing out we should and shouldn't do to be humble.
-We shared some personal examples of what's happening in recent weeks in which we or someone else could have been more humble or in which we or someone else was adequately humble and why. We also shared ideas about specific ways we can be more humble in our everyday lives in the coming weeks.
-In the end, I shared this with the group:
"Incarnate Humility" by Andrew Murray (from Humility: The Journey toward Holiness)
It is important that we know who Christ is, especially the chief characteristic that is the root and essence of his character as our Redeemer. There can be but one answer; it is his humility. What is the Incarnation but his heavenly humility, his emptying himself and becoming man? What is his life on earth but humility; his taking the form of a servant? And what is his atonement but humility? "He humbled himself and became obedient to death." And what is his ascension and his glory but humility exalted to the throne and crowned with glory? "He humbled himself... therefore God exalted him to the highest place." In heaven, where he was one with the Father, in his birth, his life, and his death on earth; in his return to the right hand of the Father - it is all humility. Christ is the expression of the humility of God embodies in human nature; the Eternal Love humbling itself, clothing itself in the garb of meekness and gentleness, to win and serve and save us. As the love and condescension of God make him the benefactor and helper and servant of all, so Jesus of necessity was the Incarnate Humility. And so he is still, in the midst of the throne, the meek and lowly Lamb of God.

Resources I utilized throughout the Humility series include: Alive Now March/April, by Upper Room Publications; www.bible.com; www.twopaths.com; and Lists to Live By: The Christian Collection for Everything That Really Matters

In the way of business:
-We discussed our upcoming Disneyland Day - Saturday, March 31!!! We'll gather at the church and carpool together. Look for details and updates in your email - there is also a sign-up sheet being circulated (or simply email Amy and make sure she's aware that you plan to attend).
-Our next bLT meeting is April 1st - get any questions, concerns, comments and suggestions to one of the group members before then!

Next Week: "Suffering" with Ashok

May your Lent continue to be thought provoking and soul cleansing.
See you all soon!

-Rachel

Update - March 2

2007-03-02T13:05:00.000-08:00

(Please Note: Our service project of feeding the homeless at OPCC that was originally scheduled for Saturday, March 3 has been postponed!!! Stay tuned for a new date to be announced soon.)

We had a great group on Wednesday night for our first installment of "Humility" with yours truly.

We started off the evening talking about Lent and I asked that we all keep the "disciplines" of Lent in our minds as we go through this season and especially throughout our series on Humility.

Sarah's notes on Lent: a season of repentance, self-examination, awareness of the hurts of the people of the world

My thoughts: reflection, time of prayer, thinking about Christ and what he did for us, remembering his trial in the desert faced w/ temptations, cleansing, preparing our hearts for Holy Week and the joyous time of Easter

We then talked about Humility itself. What is it? We wrote down some thoughts in our own words and also referred to how it's defined in the dictionary.

In addition to Humility being a relevant topic during Lent, I wanted to draw ties with Paul's call for us to show humility in Amy's recent study of the book of Philippians. We re-read the scripture Philippians 2:3-8. And there are many other references to being humble in the Bible. A few examples include: Proverbs 27:1-2; James 4:5-10; Titus 3:2; Matthew 18:2-4 and Micah 6:8.

I referenced a few sentences from a website that I came across that really articulated the meaning of humility (for me) and speaks to humility's presence in the Bible and in our lives.
From www.twopaths.com: "Humility as a virtue is a major theme of both the Old and New Testaments. Why do qualities such as courtesy, patience and deference have such a prominent place in the Bible? It is because a demeanor of humility is exactly what is needed to live in peace and harmony with all persons. Humility dissipates anger and heals old wounds. Humility allows us to see the dignity and worth of all God's people. Humility distinguishes the wise leader from the arrogant power-seeker."

We discussed the following questions:
-How do you feel about being asked to "lower yourself," to truly think of others as better than you? What is your initial gut reaction? Is this a natural way of being or is it difficult, something you have to work at and think about? Why is it difficult?
-Aside from lowering one's self, what are other ways of showing humility? Words that come to mind, actions?
-What does pride look like? Why is it a bad thing? Is it always bad?

Business:
-We talked about feeding the homeless at OPCC which Rebecca is heading up as our next service project. This was originally scheduled for tomorrow (Saturday, March 3) but is going to be rescheduled. Stay tuned for more.
-The next bLT (bridge Leadership Team) meeting will be THIS Sunday and then after that we'll meet on April 1. If you have questions, suggestions, comments, concerns, ideas or personal upcoming events that you'd like to share with the group, PLEASE send that information to one of the team members (me, Amy, Ashok, Ellen, Jennifer or Sarah) OR place it in the suggestion box in the room.
-The Keiskamma Altarpiece will be at FUMC March 13 - 23! We encourage everyone to participate in this special event in one way or another - there are lots of opportunities to see it and to hear speakers, see films, worship with it, etc.... visit the church website for more!
-March 31 = Disneyland Day! Mark your calendars and stay tuned for more details to come.
-Next Wednesday night is Game Night! Come one and all.

Prayers:
-David
-Noel's parents
-Ellen and Alex
-Shannon's stepmother and her father
-Adam and his great aunt who passed away recently
-Charley and Jen
-Amy and colleagues
-Rachel
-Bryan
-Donna's friend

Dear Lord, help us to be humble in our everyday lives. Help us to look to the needs of others before our own. This is difficult. We ask for your guidance and we pray that your love will shine through everything we do. Continually remind us of our Lenten disciplines. We wish to reflect on you and your son, Jesus Christ who you sent to cleanse us of our sins. Help us to regularly and mindfully cleanse our own souls so that we might better share your love with others. Go with each person in this room tonight and be with those who aren't with us as we venture into the next few days and into next week, until we meet again. We ask this in your holy name. Amen.

Yours in Christ,

Rachel

Update - February 22

2007-02-22T12:50:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was Ash Wednesday, the beginning of Lent. On Wednesday, Feb 14 (Valentine's Day!) and last night, Sarah led us in a discussion about Ash Wednesday and the season of Lent and we reflected on our experiences after last night's Ash Wednesday service.

Here are Sarah's notes from the 14th:

Shrove Tuesday
Shrove Tuesday = Mardi Gras = Fat Tuesday = Carnival
-In all cultures, under all names, this is a time of celebration before the time of fasting and repentance of Lent begins.

Ash Wednesday
-This day marks the beginning of Lent. It is 46 days before Easter: Lent is considered 40 days long, but Sundays are already counted as commemorating Jesus' birth.
-At the Service the minister will put an ash cross on a prishioner's forehead. The ash typically comes from the palm fronds saved from last year's Palm Sunday service. The ash represents a Middle Eastern tradition of throwing ash over one's head to symbolize repentance before God. While placing the ash, the minister typically says: Genesis 3:19 "Remember, that you are dust And unto dust you shall return." Latin: Memento homo, quia pulvis es, et in pulverem reverteris.

Lent
-Lent is a season of repentance, self-examination and awareness of the hurts of the people of the world. Before Jesus was crucified, he went into the wilderness for 40 days and fasted. It was a time of contemplation and reflection and a test of willpower against temptation. Participating in the Lenten season allows us to honor Jesus' sacrifice and helps us understand what he went through. In the first few centureis, all new Christians had to go through a bible study during Lent before they were allowed to be baptized on Easter.

Jesus is tempted to give up God's path and pursue his own ministry:
Matthew 4:1-11; Mark 1:12-13; Luke 4:1-13

40 Day period of Lent
-The forty day period is symbolic as the number 40 is seen many other places...
--The forty days and forty nights of rain during Noah's trials (Gen 7:4, 12, 17; 8:6)
--Moses spent 40 days & 40 nights on Mt. Sinai (Ex 24:18)
--Elijah spent 40 nights in the wilderness before finding Sinai (1 Kings 19:8)
--The Jews wandered for forty years traveling to the Promised Land (Nm 13:25)
--The city of Nineveh was given forty days' grace in which to repent after Jonah's prophecy
--Jesus retreated into the wilderness and fasted for forty days of temptation
--Lastly, Jesus' ascension to heaven is 40 days after his resurrection (Acts 1:3)

Thanks, Sarah, for enlightening us about Ash Wednesday and the season of Lent. We hope this is helpful to all of you as you journey through Lent 2007!

Please note all of the upcoming meetings and events on the right hand side of the blog. Refer to it often for updates and mark your own calendars!

The bLT (bridge Leadership Team) would like to thank all of you for bearing with us through transitions that have been presented lately. We are very close to finalizing a Mission Statement and ground rules for meetings and are looking forward to implementing the changes that we feel will carry this group forward to better organization and more profound experiences.

We mentioned it last night and will continue to do so, that we are now using a new format on Wednesday nights that includes (in this order) fellowship time as we gather, a program, "bridge business," prayer requests and a closing prayer. As always, everyone is welcome to socialize after the meeting as well. We encourage everyone to allow the specified facilitator on any given Wednesday night to guide the group through this format. Our hope is that this will streamline our Wednesday evenings so that we can all get the most out of our time together. If you have "bridge business" (information about upcoming events, announcements, personal invites, etc) please give/send that information to a member of the bLT during the week so that we might present timely information to the rest of the group during business time on Wednesday nights. And feel free to use the Suggestion Box any time! The bLT consists of Amy, Ashok, Ellen, Jen, Sarah and me.

We hope to see many of you at Saturday's bridge Birthday Beach Bash and Potluck BBQ!!!

Yours in Christ, Rachel

Update - February 2 - Happy Groundhog Day!

2007-02-02T11:21:00.000-08:00

Punxsutawney Phil didn't see his shadow this morning - so we can look forward to spring around the corner!

Amy led her fourth and final installment on Philippians on Wednesday and on behalf of the entire group I would like to THANK her so much for this series which has been interesting and informative. Thank you so much for taking it on, especially at this time of transition. It's been great!

Here are the thoughts and questions from Wednesday's meeting:
-What stands out to you from the study of Philippians?
-What might you hope to apply to your life?
-How are we like the believers in Philippi?
-How are we like Paul?
-What seems difficult about Paul's words to the believers at Philippi?
-Does anything seem confusing or impossible?

-There is something important about believers getting along with each other.
-Paul tells us "Don't Worry, Be Happy."
-Positive thinking can be an important part of our lives.
-Paul really did know how to be content in good and bad circumstances.
-Receive and experience the amazing grace of the Master, Jesus Christ, deep, deep within yourselves.

And, as promised, Amy shared what she knows/could find out about Paul's death:

HOW DID PAUL DIE?
Well, we actually don’t know. Many assume he was sentenced to death following the trial he was awaiting in Rome when he wrote this letter. If so, he would have been beheaded rather than crucifixion, since it wasn’t legal to crucify a Roman citizen; beheading was much less tortuous. Others claim he left Rome after his trial before Nero and traveled to Spain and perhaps other places, but most believe he did ultimately die of beheading in Rome.

Eusebius, the 4th century bishop of Caesarea who is often called the first Church historian, records that the apostle Paul was executed in Rome during the persecution of the emperor and madman, Nero. Nero’s persecution of Christians lasted for four years, from 64 to 68AD. It was also during this persecution that the apostle Peter was executed. As a Roman citizen entitled to a quick death, Paul was beheaded. St. Gregory the Great, the 6th century pope, wrote that Paul’s execution took place on the left bank of the Tiber River on the Via Ostiensis, the road to the port of Ostia, and is buried near the site of the basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls.
http://www.stpaulsirvine.org/html/saintpaul.html

Please refer to the list of upcoming meetings and events on the right side of the blog. There is lots of stuff coming up - hopefully something for everyone!

Have a fantastic week,

Rachel

Update - January 26

2007-01-26T10:02:00.000-08:00

Hi all,

Wednesday's meeting was another interesting installment on Philippians with Amy facilitating the discussion. We read the 3rd chapter and discussed these questions:

-Are there present-day enemies of our faith? If so, who?
-What might we be tempted to boast about?
-How does our righteousness come from Christ?
-Am I having trouble leaving anything behind as I move towards the goal God has set before me?
-How does following Christ impact my life?
-Do you know a leader who imitates Christ to the point that you might feel comfortable imitating him/her?

Questions to think about this week:
-What seems like common sense in this chapter?
-What seems impossible in this chapter?
-How do these verses relate to life today?
-Do you disagree with Paul at this point? If so, why?
-What is confusing about these verses, if anything?
-According to these verses, what does "following Jesus" look like?

Next Wednesday night Amy will conclude her study of Philippians. Please read chapter 4 in preparation. I believe Amy has some very interesting questions and possibly answers/facts that will make you go hmmm. Come check it out!

Upcoming Event:
Thursday, February 15 @ 7 pm = Join John Hayes, the founder and director of InnerCHANGE, as he signs copies of his just-published book, sub-merge: Living Deep in a Shallow World, and recounts his journey of service, justice and contemplation among the world’s poor. Discover how building authentic faith-based relationships is changing the world one person at a time. Although this is an open event which everyone is welcome and encouraged to attend, your RSVP with the church office would be helpful.

Have a wonderful weekend.

Yours, Rachel

Update - January 19, 2007

2007-01-19T15:00:00.000-08:00

We had another great meeting with Amy at the helm on Wednesday night. We delved into our 2nd installment of our focus on the book of Philippians. We discussed the end of the first chapter and most of the second.

Here are the questions that directed our discussion:
What seems like common sense in this chapter?
What seems impossible in this chapter?
How do these verses relate to life today?
How are we like the believers in Philippi?
How are we like Paul?
Do you disagree with Paul at this point? If so, why?
What is confusing about these verses, if anything?
What steps can we take to be more like Jesus according to these verses?

Things to ponder this week:
-How can I stand firm in my faith?
-Does faith relate to suffering in my life?
-Why is humility, counter-cultural though it may be, imporant in the lives of followers of Jesus?
-Why is harmony (unity) among believers important?
-What small step might I take to allow these verses to change my life this week?
-How can I be like a star shining in the universe and considerate of the needs of others at the same time?

Please read Philippians chapter 3 for next Wednesday night.

Have a great week!

-Rachel

Update - January 11, 2007

2007-01-11T10:27:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year!

We had a fantastic meeting last night with Amy leading us in the first installment of a 4 part Bible study on Philippians. I, for one, enjoyed it and look forward to the rest of the series.

If you will be able to join us in the next three weeks, please take a moment when you can to read through Philippians - it is a very short book with 4 chapters. We almost covered the full first chapter last night. Amy gave us a flier of information before we began. Here it is...

What was going on when Paul wrote this letter?
-It was near 61 CE (current era)
-Nero was in power
-Paul was in prison (probably in Rome)

Some Themes found in Philippians:
-Joy/Happiness
-Harmony
-Perils to and enemies of the faith
-Dangers of Pride
-Humility/Jesus' incarnation

Characters found in Philippians:
Paul - Apostle of Jesus Christ, missionary, author of the letter
Epaphroditus - Messenger from Philippian church, recovering from serious illness
Timothy - Ministry partner of Paul, also associated with Philippian church, loyal
Euodia - Leader in church encouraged to resolve conflict with Syntyche
Syntyche - Leader in church encouraged to resolve conflict with Euodia
Syzygus - Partner with Paul encouraged to help Euodia and Syntyche
Clement - Leader in the church who also knows Euodia and Syntyche as leaders

About Philippi:
-Part of Macedonia (northern Greece)
-Possibly Paul's first place to visit in Europe
-Associated with Paul for more than 10 years
-A Roman Colony

Where do we find information about Philippi in the New Testament aside from this letter?
-Acts 16:6-40
-Acts 18:5
-Acts 20:6
-1 Thessalonians 2:2
-2 Corinthians 8:1-2 (Macedonia)

Amy gave us some questions to ponder after reading the first chapter, in preparation for next week. Here they are...

Philippians 1

Where do you find hope in this chapter?
What worries you about this chapter?
Where do you find yourself in this chapter?
How does this part of this leatter relate to life today?
How can we apply what we learn here to our daily lives?
How are we like the believers in Philippi?
How are we like Paul?
Do you disagree with Paul at this point? If so, why?
What is confusing about these verses, if anything?

To carry beyond these walls:
-May my love abound more and more...
-Is their fruit in my life resulting from the righteousness of Jesus?
-The motivation of others may not actually be my concern...
-How can I live in a manner worthy of the Gospel of Jesus Christ?
-How can I stand firm in my faith?
-Does faith relate to suffering in my life?
-Who do we thank God for when we remember them?

Huge thanks goes out to Amy for all of her work on this!

I hope to see many of you next week - same time, same place.

Yours in Christ,

Rachel

Update - December 18, 2006

2006-12-18T10:05:00.000-08:00

Our Christmas Party was a lot of fun. The Santa Claus showed up again during the gift exchange and a tradition was born. The dinner and goodies were delicious and the music was festive but laid back at the same time. A lovely time was had by all. :-)

Please join Shannon for ice cream if you're in town THIS Wednesday. Meet in the room at 7 pm and the group will leave around 7:15 or so. Please RSVP to Shannon so that the group knows to wait for you!

We bid farewell and Godspeed to Rafael and Valerie who are moving back to North Carolina this week. We'll miss you!

Congratulations to Kellie on her new job! Keep up the good work - but don't work TOO hard. :-)

Merry Christmas to all and a blessed New Year!

-Rachel

the bridge Christmas Party!

2006-12-07T15:03:00.000-08:00

Come one, come all to the bridge Christmas Party on Wednesday, December 13 at 7 pm in Rm 308! This is a potluck, so bring a dinner dish to share. Ideas might include, casseroles (meat and vegetarian), side dishes and cooked vegetables, salads, appetizers, dessert items, drinks, etc... Noel and I will make sure that we have plenty of paper products and utensils. If anyone would like to arrive early and decorate the room for the festivities, that would be lovely.

We will enjoy the potluck meal together, possibly play some games, have Christmas music playing and will partake in the ever-so-fun gift exchange. Please bring a "white elephant" gift (worth $10 or less please) that is cheesy or funny. This is the perfect opportunity to "regift." Have fun and be creative. The idea behind this activity is to simply enjoy the game - please do not spend a lot of money (if any at all) on the bridge gift exchange. Save that for your other loved ones and for those in need this Christmas!

We hope to see many of you there! Please note the schedule on the right. We will NOT meet on December 20 or December 27 - too many folks will be out of town. If you would be interested in going for ice cream on December 20 - please contact Shannon.

A blessed Advent to all of you!
And, when the time comes, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!!!

Yours, Rachel

Update - November 16

2006-11-17T13:20:00.001-08:00

We had another great gathering last night with three new participants and a great discussion concerning tithing facilitated by Charley. Thanks, Charley! And, welcome to Karyn, Rafael and Valerie - it was wonderful to have you.

1) A few items are still needed for our bridge Thanksgiving with International Students. We will be enjoying the meal together at the church at 3 pm on Thanksgiving Day with members of the bridge and 20 or so international students that Amy works with at Santa Monica College. If you are available to join us, please do. If you can't join us but would still like to help out with the food PLEASE DO! Here is the current list that I have. Please contact me if you would like to add your name.

Turkey - Amy
Green Been Casserole - Rebecca, Noel
Something Green -
Cornbake/Cornbread - Devin
Stuffing - Sarah
Sweet Potato Casserole - Sarah
Mashed Potatoes -
Deviled Eggs - Noel (who else?)
Rolls - Ellen
Gravy -
Chutney - Brad/Dorothy
Salad - Rachel
Fruit Salad - Devin
Cranberry Sauce - Kellie
Pecan Pie - Rachel (2)
Pumpkin Pie - Rachel (2)
Something Chocolate - Ellen
Sodas - Ashok
Lemonade -
Water -
Other -

2) We decided to have our bridge holiday party on Wednesday night December 20. The details have not been decided (what, place, etc...) but mark your calendars and stay tuned.

(On a side note, one of our newest participants, Rafael, has offered to provide his DJ services to the bridge for an upcoming event. This sounds like tons of fun to me. I wonder if we might be interested in doing this for our Christmas party? I've looked at the church calendar and Simkins Hall is not being used on the night of December 20th - at least, not yet. If any of you are interested in this idea, lets develop it. If not, we can consider having a special bridge dj'd event in the future. A huge thanks to Rafael for the offer!!)

3) The Room Renovation Task Force is working on a list of items that we can purchase that will be used as we continue to work on the room. I'm waiting for an update from the church Accounting Manager about the funds that we currently have and how long they'll be available, etc... In the meantime, the idea is that with this list we will be able to use the money before the end of the year. Again, stay tuned. We plan to proceed with work on the room after the new year. So, enjoy the holidays but be prepared for some work days in early 2007!

4) NO MEETING NEXT WEDNESDAY! On November 29, a friend of Noel's will join us for an evening focused on Islam.

Keep Jen and Charley in your thoughts as the birth of their first child draws near. They are due on Thanksgiving.

Please keep those who are traveling in yours minds as well over the holiday.

Peace and Love to all of you,

Rachel

Update - October 26

2006-11-17T13:19:00.000-08:00

Howdy all,

What a great turnout and what a great discussion we had last night. Brad joined us and led us in a talk about homelessness and pandhandling in our community. It was an eyeopening report.

Introduced with the discussion was the possibility to take action. The OPCC (Ocean Park Community Center) has many opportunities for feeding the homeless and the bridge might participate in that very soon. Stay tuned!

A huge thanks to Brad for sharing last night!

Now, with regards to business, there is a LOT going on/coming up. So, sit back, relax and read on...

1) The finishing of the ceiling and the painting of the room will begin on Monday, November 6. The hope is that everything will be done by our meeting on that Wednesday. But, if it's not OR if it's still too smelly in there or whatever, we can meet in a different room. I'll figure out the situation on Wednesday (November 8) and let everyone know as well as post signs if necessary.

2) I am working on booking us for a taping of a tv show. I'm still not sure if we'll qualify for getting paid to do it, but even if we don't it would be a fun thing to do. We'll need to have a group of at least 10 people (which may be hard for us - we'll see). Out of the choices I was given it looks like most shows tape between 5 pm - 6:30 pm which I know will be difficult for a lot of people. Out of the choices of studios I think Sony in Culver City will be our best bet. It's going to be difficult to get anywhere at that time of day coming from Santa Monica (or wherever you're coming from) but trying to get to Studio City or Burbank sounds more daunting to me than Culver City. If you feel differently, let me know. So, by narrowing the choices down based on those factors we're looking at either Rules of Engagement (November 7 or 14) or 'Til Death (November 17 or December 1). If you are interested in this please let me know ASAP what your preference is. If I don't get enough replies then it just won't happen. I need to get in touch with the guy who originally contacted me. It's already been two weeks. For all I know there may not be any choices left.

3) The men of the bridge are going to cook for the women! Everyone is invited to this fun potluck at Ashok's place (Apt 309) on Saturday, November 4 at 7:30 pm. Guys, you better get cookin. Ladies, just relax! :-) yay!

4) We've decided to do something special for our Wednesday meeting on November 8 and take a hike up to Inspiration Point at Will Rogers State Park. Stay tuned for more details.

5) the bridge is hosting Thanksgiving Dinner again this year for the international students that Amy works with. It will be on Thanksgiving Day (Thursday, November 23) at 3 pm in the Fireside Room at church. You may come and enjoy dinner or if you have other plans, drop off food contributions in advance. Here is the sign up sheet so far. Please let me know if you'd like to add your name somewhere.
Turkey - Amy
Green Been Casserole - Rebecca, Noel
Something Green -
Cornbake/Cornbread - Devin
Stuffing -
Sweet Potato Casserole - Sarah
Mashed Potatoes - Ellen
Deviled Eggs - Noel (who else?)
Rolls - Ellen
Gravy -
Chutney - Brad/Dorothy
Salad -
Fruit Salad - Devin
Cranberry Sauce - Kellie
Pecan Pie - Rachel (2)
Pumpkin Pie - Rachel (2)
Something Chocolate - Ellen
Sodas - Ashok
Lemonade -
Water -
Other -

6) We need to nail down the details for our bridge Christmas party. Date and place, most importantly. How about Saturday December 9 or 16? And where... think about possibly 20 people, seating for eating and seating for gift exchange/fellowship and parking! If you have a suggestion that would work considering all of these factors, please let me know. My vote would be to actually do it in our room at the church.

7) Brad will join us again on December 13. We need to come up with a topic.

8) An opportunity for service at Christmastime: For the past two years Brad has taken a child shopping as a part of the Salvation Army - Sears Christmas for Kids program. Jeanne Dahm (a member of the church) has given up to $150 for the shopping. It entails arriving at Sears at 7:45am on November 14th (Tuesday morning), checking in and then spending about 45 minutes with a child shopping with them for clothes and toys for Christmas. These children come from South Central LA and this becomes their Christmas. Brad is not able to do it this year and is wondering if this significant outreach would appeal to anyone in the group. He needs to call in the person's name so that the Salvation Army will be prepared. Please let me know if you're interested or have any questions.

Prayer requests:
Ashok's brother's friend Nicole (lung transplant)
Kellie's grandmother Polly Anderson (and job search)
Brian's health
Mark Oh's health (church member)
Devin's mom
Meg's former pastor's family and friends (pastor died with cancer)

That's all (and more than enough) for now! I hope this finds you all well.

Yours in Christ,

Rachel

Photos from Relay For Life 2006

2006-11-17T13:18:00.000-08:00

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Photos from Spring Retreat 2006

2006-11-17T12:59:00.001-08:00

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Romans chapter 2

The Pillars of Paul’s thoughts and beliefs:

The Letter to the Romans by Paul

The Story of the Scallop Shell

Jesus is the Light, and we need no other Light

Mission Project for 2008 Annual Conference: VIM healthcare kits.

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8 Minute Meditation by Victor Davich

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1 Timothy 1-2

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*What Hymns Would You Like To See In A New United Methodist Hymnal?*

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November 28, 2007

A suggestion for Christmas presents

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What Hymns Would You Like To See In A New United Methodist Hymnal?