Pastor’s Paragraph - January 14, 2021
It is a joy to share some good news. From December 12th through the 25th we had 1,012 visits to the church website and 2,853 pageviews. Wow! God is using new ways to tell the old, old story of Jesus and his love. Clearly, the pandemic is not stopping the church from proclaiming the good news that sustains us in a time like this. What a blessing that we have the use of technology to continue to worship, pray, learn and serve in Christ’s living Spirit. No wonder we have already decided to continue virtual worship even when it is safe to re-gather for in-person services in our inspiring sanctuary.
It is a joy to share some good news. From December 12th through the 25th we had 1,012 visits to the church website and 2,853 pageviews. Wow! God is using new ways to tell the old, old story of Jesus and his love. Clearly, the pandemic is not stopping the church from proclaiming the good news that sustains us in a time like this. What a blessing that we have the use of technology to continue to worship, pray, learn and serve in Christ’s living Spirit. No wonder we have already decided to continue virtual worship even when it is safe to re-gather for in-person services in our inspiring sanctuary.
I want to offer sincere appreciation to the Council of Ministries for their willingness to invest in upgraded audio and video equipment in the sanctuary. Of course, it is the generosity of a faithful congregation that empowered this investment. I also tip my hat to the church staff, the technology team, the music team and the Worship and Arts Ministry Team for their devoted service in front of and behind the camera. And finally, special kudos to Michael Kendall, Mark Raker and Jerry Weissinger for technical guidance along the way and hours of work each week that make our ministry of virtual worship possible. Friedens is richly blessed with good souls who share their gifts with glad hearts!
The gifts he gave were that some would be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, some pastors and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ, until all of us come to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to maturity, to the measure of the full stature of Christ. (Ephesians 4:11-13)
Pastor’s Paragraph - January 7, 2021
Dear Beloved Siblings,
May you feel God’s Spirit renewing you as this new year of 2021 begins. Are you one who practices setting goals or resolutions at the beginning of a year? For me, the new year has often been a time of practicing the spiritual discipline of examen – an opportunity to reflect on the past year and where I’ve seen God’s Spirit moving, to confess where I’ve missed the mark, and to consider where God is guiding and calling the new year.
Dear Beloved Siblings,
May you feel God’s Spirit renewing you as this new year of 2021 begins. Are you one who practices setting goals or resolutions at the beginning of a year? For me, the new year has often been a time of practicing the spiritual discipline of examen – an opportunity to reflect on the past year and where I’ve seen God’s Spirit moving, to confess where I’ve missed the mark, and to consider where God is guiding and calling the new year. This year the Indiana-Kentucky Conference of the United Church of Christ (one aspect of community and covenant within our denomination of the United Church of Christ) offered us a list of star words that we can use on a Spirit-led, Spirit-filled journey for the new year. As the magi followed the star on a journey of faith to draw nearer to the Christ child, perhaps you’d like to pick a word or phrase to help you stay focused on drawing near to Jesus during 2021. You can quietly meditate and pray about a word on your own, or you can use the link below to pick a word. After you decide on a word, maybe you’d like to cut out a star and write your word or draw a picture on the star to place somewhere that you’ll see if often. Maybe you’d like to place it in your Bible, on a kitchen table, or on a mirror. You can use it as a way to stay focused on your journey in the faith and love of Jesus. I hope it will remind you that you are a loved child of God. May the stars and words/drawings be of encouragement to us we continue to seek God’s wisdom and guidance in ways to share Jesus’ love with others.
If you’d like to share your word, or send a photo of your word or picture, we can be holding one another’s guiding words in our thoughts and prayers as we journey together as followers of Jesus in a community committed to growing in the faith of Jesus and to sharing his love with others, especially with children and youth in our communities.
https://files.constantcontact.com/8206d75f001/a9006b74-f05b-49e7-bcba-4d26c59808d2.pdf
Please feel free to send your word and/or photo or drawing to pastorsarah.friedens@outlook.com
9When they had heard the king, they set out; and there, ahead of them, went the star that they had seen at its rising, until it stopped over the place where the child was. 10When they saw that the star had stopped, they were overwhelmed with joy. 11On entering the house, they saw the child with Mary his mother; and they knelt down and paid him homage. Then, opening their treasure chests, they offered him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. 12And having been warned in a dream not to return to Herod, they left for their own country by another road.
Matthew 2:9-12
Pastor’s Paragraph - December 31, 2020
While under house arrest Paul writes to the church in Philippi:
Finally, beloved, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is pleasing, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence and if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.
(Philippians 4:8)
This is not an example of looking at the world through rose colored glasses. This is the perspective of faith, of trust in the abiding grace and peace of Christ. This is the way a disciple who experiences the suffering of the human journey continues to persevere, learn, grow and serve others.
While under house arrest Paul writes to the church in Philippi:
Finally, beloved, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is pleasing, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence and if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.
(Philippians 4:8)
This is not an example of looking at the world through rose colored glasses. This is the perspective of faith, of trust in the abiding grace and peace of Christ. This is the way a disciple who experiences the suffering of the human journey continues to persevere, learn, grow and serve others. By keeping our focus on Christ we are empowered to reflect through human suffering the truth, honor, justice, purity, pleasing and commendable excellence that is faith and service in Christ’s Spirit. This focus does not minimize or deny suffering but it makes space for a perspective that can be used by Christ to bring peace and healing to suffering.
Yes, there is much stress, illness, grief, weariness, anxiety and sadness. And, yes, the One whose birth we are still celebrating gives us hope, love, joy and peace. These gifts sustain us in these difficult days and promise us better days to come.
You remain in my daily prayers for joy in the season of Christmas and hope in the New Year.
~Marc
Pastor’s Paragraph - December 23, 2020
Dear Beloved Siblings,
I miss you! You’ve been in my thoughts, prayers, and heart throughout this season of Advent. There is so much that I want to ask you and share with you as we approach the celebration of Jesus’ birth and his coming anew in our lives. In praying about what to share, I heard gratitude. Thank you for your continued faithfulness. Being the church is worshipping our Creator in all times and places. Being the church is joining in Jesus’ mission of partnering in God’s work of healing, feeding, and growing. Being the church is about God’s gifts of unconditional love and transforming grace. Throughout COVID, by God’s mercy, we have continued to grow, learn, worship, and serve.
Dear Beloved Siblings,
I miss you! You’ve been in my thoughts, prayers, and heart throughout this season of Advent. There is so much that I want to ask you and share with you as we approach the celebration of Jesus’ birth and his coming anew in our lives. In praying about what to share, I heard gratitude. Thank you for your continued faithfulness. Being the church is worshipping our Creator in all times and places. Being the church is joining in Jesus’ mission of partnering in God’s work of healing, feeding, and growing. Being the church is about God’s gifts of unconditional love and transforming grace. Throughout COVID, by God’s mercy, we have continued to grow, learn, worship, and serve.
Many, many thanks to all who have made virtual worship and worship services in the parking lot possible. Many, many thanks for all who share food for weekenders and write letters for Bread for the World. All who participate in virtual prayer groups, study groups, workshops, and gatherings are appreciated. Your prayers for our local and global communities are cherished. The work of the new Just Peace Exploratory Team is a gift and a blessing. The countless hours given by the health team guiding decisions about our safety and wellness are greatly appreciated. The leadership and efforts of the council of ministries leaders and ministry teams cause me to thank God. It is a blessing to serve with you. When the suffering of neighbors near and far threatens to immobilize me, I return to the spiritual practices, disciples, and gifts of prayer, gratitude, and rejoicing. Praises be to God!
So very much has been different in 2020, but at least two things remain the same – 1) God is love. 2) We are called to love God and love one another. On Christmas eve and Christmas day much will be very different for many of us, but the reason we bow down and humble ourselves before God remains the same. God has come into the world. God is with us. God will never leave or forsake God’s beloved creation and creatures. Jesus our Immanuel, Wonderful Counselor, Prince of Peace, Mighty God, and Holy One continues to redeem us and set us free to share God’s saving grace. May we join Mary in focusing on the God’s magnificence and glory. May we join Mary in pondering, honoring, and partnering with a God who fills the hungry with good things. May we join the shepherds in drawing near to Jesus and running to share the good news of great joy of his birth. May we hear and embody the praises of angels who remind us that Jesus’ love is for all people. It is for you! It is for everyone! In midst of all the emotions and challenges, in the midst of the suffering and pain, may you know you are held and covered by the hope, peace, compassion, faithfulness, and eternal love of God – Creator, Liberator, and Guide.
Christmas blessings,
Sarah
46 And Mary[f] said,
“My soul magnifies the Lord,
47 and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior,
48 for he has looked with favor on the lowliness of his servant.
Surely, from now on all generations will call me blessed;
49 for the Mighty One has done great things for me,
and holy is his name.
50 His mercy is for those who fear him
from generation to generation.
51 He has shown strength with his arm;
he has scattered the proud in the thoughts of their hearts.
52 He has brought down the powerful from their thrones,
and lifted up the lowly;
53 he has filled the hungry with good things,
and sent the rich away empty.
54 He has helped his servant Israel,
in remembrance of his mercy,
55 according to the promise he made to our ancestors,
to Abraham and to his descendants forever.”
Pastor’s Paragraph - December 17, 2020
We began a study of the Gospels as 2020 dawned. What a blessing that we were keeping close to the wisdom of Jesus as the pandemic took hold and changed our lives. As the year draws to a close and we anticipate 2021 we have hope the pandemic will diminish with the promise of a vaccine. Come what may, our study of the way of Jesus will comfort and encourage us. We have looked carefully at the way Matthew and Luke follow the chronology and outline set forth by Mark. We have noted unique material in these synoptic gospels, appreciating the unique perspective these three bring to the story of Jesus and his love. Now we shift to the fourth and most mysterious of the gospels, John.
We began a study of the Gospels as 2020 dawned. What a blessing that we were keeping close to the wisdom of Jesus as the pandemic took hold and changed our lives. As the year draws to a close and we anticipate 2021 we have hope the pandemic will diminish with the promise of a vaccine. Come what may, our study of the way of Jesus will comfort and encourage us. We have looked carefully at the way Matthew and Luke follow the chronology and outline set forth by Mark. We have noted unique material in these synoptic gospels, appreciating the unique perspective these three bring to the story of Jesus and his love. Now we shift to the fourth and most mysterious of the gospels, John. Following his own chronology and storytelling path, John speaks of signs not miracles and of mystical metaphors not parables. John adds depth to the identity of Jesus the Word, beginning the story before creation itself. Let us follow along with open hearts, minds, and spirits.
Blessings, Marc
Here is a look at the texts and sermon titles through January:
12/24/2020, John 1:1-5, 14-18, In the Beginning
12/27/2020, John 1:29-34, The Son of God
1/3/2021, John 1:35-42, What Are You Looking For?
1/10/2021, John 3:1-5, The Spirit at Work
1/17/2021, John 4:7-15, The Living Water
1/24/2021, John 6:35-40, The Bread of Life
1/31/2021, John 8:3-11, Neither Do I Condemn You
Pastor’s Paragraph - December 10, 2020
Most years as an adult, I’ve picked a word or two to focus on, or a word picks me. Some of the words have been more challenging than others. Listen and surrender are ones that I find very humbling and often seem to be the foundation for other words. A few years ago when I went through a pretty low time of depression, my counselor directed me to the word joy when she offered me the reminder that “The joy of the Lord is my strength.” That helps me find groundedness in the midst of confusion, exhaustion, and struggle. It reminds me that I do not, and actually cannot, carry things on my own. Strength comes from that deep trust in the God who leads us with love and compassion.
Most years as an adult, I’ve picked a word or two to focus on, or a word picks me. Some of the words have been more challenging than others. Listen and surrender are ones that I find very humbling and often seem to be the foundation for other words. A few years ago when I went through a pretty low time of depression, my counselor directed me to the word joy when she offered me the reminder that “The joy of the Lord is my strength.” That helps me find groundedness in the midst of confusion, exhaustion, and struggle. It reminds me that I do not, and actually cannot, carry things on my own. Strength comes from that deep trust in the God who leads us with love and compassion.
This year I have also found encouragement in the idea that joy is an act of resistance. Many years ago, I remember hearing a choir share that nothing can take our joy away. Much will come and go. Much is uncertain. Yet we can find joy in God’s unconditional love and grace. That does not mean that we will always feel happy. We can feel all the feelings while still being strengthened by God as our joy – and our hope, love, and peace – God as our all in all – our Rock and Redeemer – our sure and steady foundation. In these days, I also encourage you to give yourself space to mourn and grieve. I have felt a collective grief, and I while I trust that joy will come in the morning, I sense that I will be best when I actively remain in this season of expectant waiting without rushing past lament. The one who we will welcome once again into our lives as a precious newborn when Christmas comes, grew up to teach us, “Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.”
May you feel God’s comfort. May you feel God’s healing at work in the world and in all the places of hurt and brokenness. May you feel God holding you wherever you are and in the midst of whatever you are facing and feeling. You are loved. You are not alone. You matter to God, and God has designed you with purpose!
And Mary said, “My soul magnifies the Lord,
and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior,
for he has looked with favor on the lowliness of his servant.
Surely, from now on all generations will call me blessed;
for the Mighty One has done great things for me, and holy is his name.
His mercy is for those who fear him from generation to generation.
He has shown strength with his arm; he has scattered the proud in the thoughts of their hearts.
He has brought down the powerful from their thrones, and lifted up the lowly;
he has filled the hungry with good things, and sent the rich away empty.
He has helped his servant Israel, in remembrance of his mercy,
according to the promise he made to our ancestors, to Abraham and to his descendants forever."
Luke 1:46-55
Pastor’s Paragraph - December 3, 2020
During the pandemic we have become acutely aware of how much our physical presence means to one another in our community of faith. We certainly miss being together in-person but we do not regret taking action to stem the tide of virus transmission and to ease the heavy burden for our healthcare workers and first responders. Thank you for doing your part as a caring and responsible neighbor and disciple.
During the pandemic we have become acutely aware of how much our physical presence means to one another in our community of faith. We certainly miss being together in-person but we do not regret taking action to stem the tide of virus transmission and to ease the heavy burden for our healthcare workers and first responders. Thank you for doing your part as a caring and responsible neighbor and disciple.
When this is finally over we will never take for granted the opportunity to gather together for worship, learning, fellowship and service. In the meantime, we will continue to do our best to stay connected virtually and with cards, notes, texts, phone calls and socially-distanced outdoor gatherings as the weather allows.
As the Advent season is underway and the holy days of Christmas will soon be here, we have a special challenge to attend to health and well-being while honoring the traditions that make this season so special and meaningful. Please know the worship team and Worship and Arts Ministry Team are working to include in virtual worship rituals like candle lighting, carol singing, the reading of Advent and Christmas scriptures, and inspiring instrumental music. Worship remains the indispensable connecting point to the living Spirit of God that empowers us to not only remember but to live the gifts Christ brings at Christmas: hope, love, joy and peace. Please participate in these worship offerings available here on the Friedens website under Worship Services, (https://www.friedensucc.org/worship-services) and share them with your family and friends.
May a commitment to worship inspire service to our community. One of the best ways to celebrate Christmas is to lend a helping hand. Please be watching for the announcements about the Christmas Giving Tree, the Christmas Fund special offering, and ongoing hunger relief through Weekenders. Please also continue the daily kindnesses of being good neighbors. For instance, sharing and receiving Christmas cards will likely take on special meaning this year. Please consider adding to your Christmas card list the homebound members of our church family. Beautiful cards and thoughtful greetings to those who feel most isolated can bring a warm reminder that no one is ever truly alone. Christ is with us and his love binds us together. Christmas cards are a tangible symbol of this truth.
Our homebound friends and neighbors are listed in the link in weekly “Keeping Us Connected” newsletter. If you cannot find your copy reach out with the contact form at https://www.friedensucc.org/contact-us to have another copy sent to you. Thank you for remembering them with a card and a greeting. You will bring a smile and warm a heart…theirs and yours!
God bless,
~Marc
Pastor’s Paragraph - November 25, 2020
The season of Advent is beginning, dear ones. In this season of confession, repentance, and preparation, we have an opportunity to open ourselves once again to the inbreaking of God’s love anew. How will we spend this Advent?
On the first Sunday of Advent, we focus on hope. In these days of global pandemics, where are you finding hope? How are you living and sharing hope?
The season of Advent is beginning, dear ones. In this season of confession, repentance, and preparation, we have an opportunity to open ourselves once again to the inbreaking of God’s love anew. How will we spend this Advent?
On the first Sunday of Advent, we focus on hope. In these days of global pandemics, where are you finding hope? How are you living and sharing hope?
When I sat down to reflect on hope, I searched a book for a quote on hope and the shadow of hope because this fall the concept of the shadow of hope had caught me in my tracks. In her book I’m Still Here, Austin Channing Brown shares these words about hope, “This is the shadow of hope. Knowing that we may never see the realization of our dreams, and yet still showing up” (p. 180). Austin Channing Brown reminds me in powerful ways that we are called to keep stepping out in the faith of Jesus. We are to keep unlearning and learning. We are to keep confessing and receiving grace. We are to keep loving. We are to keep our lives fixed on God’s call and vision that all God’s creatures live with equity and deep peace and justice.
May we spend time with God in order to receive the strength and mercy to follow God’s Spirit and respond to God’s call. If your hope is waning, please feel free to reach out. God designs us for community. We need one another. We are not alone. You are loved. You are cared for. You have purpose. We have a Creator who offers us hope while we wait in the shadow of hope. May we live with compassion and find courage in the care of our Maker this Advent.
For God alone my soul waits in silence,
for my hope is from God.
God alone is my rock and my salvation,
my fortress; I shall not be shaken.
Psalm 62:5-6
Pastor’s Paragraph - November 19, 2020
Several years ago, a couple from Greenwood began visiting at Friedens. It did not take long to understand what a blessing they were bringing to our family of faith. Their names, Don and Pam Taylor.
Don jumped in using his gifts in music to become a member of the chancel choir and a cantor for the liturgical service. Pam brought the gift of a deep and discerning spirit to enrich our spiritual life as a congregation.
Several years ago, a couple from Greenwood began visiting at Friedens. It did not take long to understand what a blessing they were bringing to our family of faith. Their names, Don and Pam Taylor.
Don jumped in using his gifts in music to become a member of the chancel choir and a cantor for the liturgical service. Pam brought the gift of a deep and discerning spirit to enrich our spiritual life as a congregation.
Over time, Pam felt a sense of call to ministry. She believed that she could bring her social work and counseling training and careers, with enrichment from her spiritual life, to become a pastoral counselor. Together we explored the options for authorized ministry in the United Church of Christ. It became clear that the right path forward for Pam was the process for becoming a Licensed Minister of Pastoral Counseling. Pam worked with the Southeast Association’s Committee on Ministry to become a Licensed Minister. Friedens’ Personnel Ministry Team and Pastoral Relations Committee took the necessary steps to extend a call to Pam to become our Licensed Minister of Pastoral Calling. In addition, Pam took training at the Shalem Center to become a Spiritual Director.
As a result, Pam has served Christ at Friedens Church adding a dimension of devotion and discernment to personal relationships and growth in discipleship through practices of the Spirit. From book studies to confidential counseling, from the rite of anointing to experiences of prayer and meditation, Pam has served us with wisdom and compassion. She has also been a trusted and valued member of the church staff.
We offer our very best to Pam as she has retired from her duties as our Licensed Minister of Pastoral Counseling and begins a new chapter of life and discipleship. Thank you for joining me in showing your appreciation to Pam for her faithful service.
I know you will be happy to hear that Pam and Don will continue their active
membership at Friedens Church. We will continue to journey together on the path of faith and service. May we all be inspired by Pam to use our God-given gifts to their fullest potential in service to Christ and his church.
God be with you,
~Marc
P.S. Thank you for the many kind expressions of pastoral appreciation in recent days. It is an honor to serve with you as ambassadors for Christ.
Pastor’s Paragraph - November 12, 2020
The Spiritual Journey
The spiritual journey is a way to seek and follow God’s will for our lives. Prayer is the way of grace to respond to Jesus’ invitation to ask, seek, and enter into our real (spiritual) lives. Prayer is the doorway to the continued journey. Even when we don’t think we are receiving an answer prayer sustains our relationship with God and keeps the conversation going. During this very unique period of time my sacrifice of face-to-face time has been enriched by a more intense desire for the friendship of God - also for my friendships with people through their books and even from Facebook. While I miss you all I have chosen to give thanks for each one of you, pray for you, and appreciate your unique contributions to my life.
The Spiritual Journey
The spiritual journey is a way to seek and follow God’s will for our lives. Prayer is the way of grace to respond to Jesus’ invitation to ask, seek, and enter into our real (spiritual) lives. Prayer is the doorway to the continued journey. Even when we don’t think we are receiving an answer prayer sustains our relationship with God and keeps the conversation going. During this very unique period of time my sacrifice of face-to-face time has been enriched by a more intense desire for the friendship of God - also for my friendships with people through their books and even from Facebook. While I miss you all I have chosen to give thanks for each one of you, pray for you, and appreciate your unique contributions to my life.
I will be resigning my position as staff in our church at the end of November due to increasing inconveniences of arthritis. I am not getting around as well as I used to. It has been a joy to be called to work with the staff and members of Friedens. While I am retiring from my staff position and from counseling I will still be around to continue walking the faith journey with you as a congregations and as individuals. I want to continue in my journey of prayer and spiritual direction and hope there will continue to be opportunity to share that together.
I share this treasure with you:
Above all, trust in the slow work of God.
We are quite naturally impatient in everything to reach the end without delay.
We should like to skip the intermediate stages.
We are impatient of being on the way to something unknown, something new.
And yet it is the law of all progress
that it is made by passing through some stages of instability—
and that it may take a very long time.
And so I think it is with you;
your ideas mature gradually—let them grow,
let them shape themselves, without undue haste.
Don’t try to force them on,
as though you could be today what time
(that is to say, grace and circumstances acting on your own good will)
will make of you tomorrow.
Only God could say what this new spirit
gradually forming within you will be.
Give Our Lord the benefit of believing
that his hand is leading you,
and accept the anxiety of feeling yourself
in suspense and incomplete.
—Teilhard de Chardin
Pastor’s Paragraph - November 5, 2020
Dear Beloved Siblings of our Creator,
I miss being with you physically, but I am grateful that we are united through the gifts of prayer and connected through God's Spirit.
At Friedens we are diverse and held together by our common mission of sharing the love of Jesus, especially with children in our communities. One way we join together is working with one another to provide weekender packs to children who face food insecurity at Glenns Valley Elementary and the Early Childhood Academy.
Dear Beloved Siblings of our Creator,
I miss being with you physically, but I am grateful that we are united through the gifts of prayer and connected through God's Spirit.
At Friedens we are diverse and held together by our common mission of sharing the love of Jesus, especially with children in our communities. One way we join together is working with one another to provide weekender packs to children who face food insecurity at Glenns Valley Elementary and the Early Childhood Academy.
Within Friedens United Church of Christ, we are young in years and old in years. We are non-binary, male, and female. We live alone and with others. Some of us walk, and some of us roll. Some of us go to school or work, and some of us are retired. We have different gifts, strengths, and personalities. We serve and volunteer with different ministry teams and organizations. We enjoy different hobbies. We are republican, democrat, other political parties, and unaffiliated. We are introverts and extroverts and somewhere in between. We are Black, Hispanic, Asian, biracial, multi-racial, and white. We are short and tall. We are very musically talent, not even able to clap on beat, and everywhere in between. Amongst us, we like to draw, dance, read, sew, and build. Together, we are a beautiful and varied pattern of community. Together, we are stronger. We are designed to be in relationship with God and one another. Life together in diversity offers us more space to grow, learn, and love.
With humility and deep joy, I give thanks for who we are as we seek to serve God. With the peace and the power of the Holy Spirit, may we continue to work together to respond to God’s call on each of our lives and on our lives as a collective. May we continue to breathe and move into our mission to share the love of Jesus, especially with children and youth in our communities. May we trust and find our courage in God who will never leave us or forsake.
With gratitude, prayers, and much care,
Sarah
4 Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; 5 and there are varieties of services, but the same Lord; 6 and there are varieties of activities, but it is the same God who activates all of them in everyone. 7 To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good…. 26 If one member suffers, all suffer together with it; if one member is honored, all rejoice together with it.
1 Corinthians 12:4-26
Pastor’s Paragraph - October 29, 2020
A couple of decades ago a young and ambitious college graduate named Cindy Adams visited Friedens UCC.
A native of Minnesota, she was beginning her Master’s in Philanthropy degree at IUPUI.
A lifetime United Church of Christ member, Cindy felt at home at Friedens and we were thrilled to welcome this bright, fun, faithful soul with a heartwarming and contagious smile.
A couple of decades ago a young and ambitious college graduate named Cindy Adams visited Friedens UCC.
A native of Minnesota, she was beginning her Master’s in Philanthropy degree at IUPUI.
A lifetime United Church of Christ member, Cindy felt at home at Friedens and we were thrilled to welcome this bright, fun, faithful soul with a heartwarming and contagious smile.
It just so happened Cindy was looking for a part-time job and we were looking for a part-time youth minister. It seemed like a God-thing, and it turned out to be!
Not only did Cindy win our hearts but she also won our admiration. Cindy lived with cystic fibrosis, a progressive pulmonary disease. The ailment made Cindy more susceptible to respiratory illness and required daily breathing treatments to manage the symptoms. She took it all in stride and never let it stop her from attempting and achieving her dreams, even when frequent hospitalizations proved necessary.
Cindy was a blessing to our congregation and especially to our youth. She planned and led activities, organized mission trips and exemplified faith in action for our young disciples. Being away from home and family, a circle of our caring adults stepped in as her Hoosier family, strong ties that remain to this day.
In fact, it was an introduction by one of our active members, Angie Schultz, to her single brother, Aaron Ellis, that resulted in a friendship that budded into marriage. Cindy and Aaron were married at Friedens and we all rejoiced with this young couple we had come to love.
In time, Cindy and Aaron relocated to Minnesota to be closer to Cindy’s family, where they made their family complete with the addition of a daughter, Lillie. We watched and cheered from afar as this young family established a home and a life. We added our prayers as Cindy qualified for and underwent lung transplant surgery. It was a grueling recovery, and it was not a cure, but it did provide additional years for Cindy to enjoy life and her family, who stood by her side with constant love and support.
Sadly, Cindy’s earthly journey ended October 19. She made the peaceful transition from this life to the next encircled by Aaron and her mother and her sister. Friends and family gathered to say their farewell and celebrate Cindy’s good life on October 24. Our presence was made known with flowers and many warm wishes and prayers.
Cindy lives on in the healing and restoring presence of her Creator and in the hearts of all who loved her. We are invited to add to her legacy with a memorial gift in her honor to continue the research in the treatment of cystic fibrosis. If you wish to make a donation please visit www.cff.org. Click on Donate and follow the prompts to identify your gift in memory of Cindy Adams Ellis. Thank you.
May God’s comfort soothe our mourning,
Marc
Pastor’s Paragraph - October 22, 2020
Being a Follower of Christ
I recently read an entry on Facebook that inspired me: "I am a Christian because the character of Jesus Christ is so compelling to me that I want to spend my life chasing it, embodying it, and sharing it". Isn’t the word ‘compelling’ lovely? I not only identified with this statement but was also inspired by it to think more about what my faith means to me.
Being a Follower of Christ
I recently read an entry on Facebook that inspired me: "I am a Christian because the character of Jesus Christ is so compelling to me that I want to spend my life chasing it, embodying it, and sharing it". Isn’t the word ‘compelling’ lovely? I not only identified with this statement but was also inspired by it to think more about what my faith means to me.
I believe that to live a life as a follower of Jesus Christ brings me into connection and communion with something more vast and mysterious than myself. I do love a good mystery. Following Christ connects us with a history of salvation of which we become a part. Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us (Hebrews 12:1).
And, as is written by Henri Nouwen, “Our lives can be healed by the memory of the incarnation and the story of salvation”. For me this is the great healing. My pains and joys are no longer mine but part of “the plan” for chasing, embodying, and sharing the life of Christ. I pray that this may be a beautiful reflection for you all, dear friends!
Blessings for your week!
Pastor’s Paragraph - October 15, 2020
Dear Friends,
Are there smells and flavors you most enjoy in autumn? Do you have favorite autumn activities?
What do you see in the brilliant oranges, reds, and yellows of autumn? Do you see a marvelous painting? The bright bushes remind me of God’s call to Moses and the Pentecost flames connecting all of us through God’s Spirit. I am grateful for stories that ground me in the midst of so much shifting.
Dear Friends,
Are there smells and flavors you most enjoy in autumn? Do you have favorite autumn activities?
What do you see in the brilliant oranges, reds, and yellows of autumn? Do you see a marvelous painting? The bright bushes remind me of God’s call to Moses and the Pentecost flames connecting all of us through God’s Spirit. I am grateful for stories that ground me in the midst of so much shifting.
The changing of the leaves usually reminds me most of the constancy that I find in God. Everything changes except God’s love which endures forever. God’s compassion never fails. I find my hope and strength in this, dear friends. Where do you find your hope and strength in these days of pandemics?
This year I’ve also been asked – what do I need to let go of? What do I need to release? As I watch the leaves fall to the ground, are there things that I need to surrender to God, or things that I need to surrender to God again because I’ve let them go and then picked them back up?
There so many changes and questions in these times. May you find comfort in knowing that we are not alone. It is okay to feel whatever you are feeling. May we take time to breathe, to seek God, and to share God’s love with others.
“O give thanks to the Lord, for God is good, for God’s steadfast love endures forever.”
Psalm 136:1
Pastor’s Paragraph - October 8, 2020
Howard Thurman writes, It is no ordinary matter to foster a growing relationship with God that keeps watch over all the days and the nights of all the years.
On the one hand, this quote reminds me of a song I learned as a child in Vacation Bible School. The verses were cautionary: Oh, be careful little hands what you do. Why? Because God is watching!
Howard Thurman writes, It is no ordinary matter to foster a growing relationship with God that keeps watch over all the days and the nights of all the years.
On the one hand, this quote reminds me of a song I learned as a child in Vacation Bible School. The verses were cautionary: Oh, be careful little hands what you do. Why? Because God is watching! The notion of God’s abiding presence can be used to demand obedience to one who is always looking over our shoulder, keeping track of rights and wrongs. I would describe this as a misuse of Divine omni-presence.
On the other hand, the chorus of this children’s song is its saving grace. For the Father up above is looking down with love. That’s better! It is not just that God loves us but that God is love! The essence of the Divine being is grace—unmerited, unconditional love. Thankfully, it is not a tally of rights and wrongs that determines God’s love for us. If it were, the scale would not tip in our favor. It is grace that saves. It is love that creates forgiveness. It is grateful response to love that motivates our desire to do what is right.
It is this grace that prompts Rev. Thurman to conclude his meditation with these words: As I go to sleep tonight and when I awake on tomorrow, I am comforted immeasurably by the knowledge that God will in no way fail me, neither will God in any way forsake me.
Remember, God is looking down with love.
May the grace of Christ be with you, my friends.
~Marc
Pastor’s Paragraph - October 1, 2020
Order, Disorder, Reorder
Richard Rohr recently published a book entitled "The Wisdom Pattern, Order, Disorder, Reorder." Rohr points out that our culture tends to impose on us positive values on order, progress, and success. An underlying message with these concepts is that the lack of order, progress, and success often leaves us with despair.
Order, Disorder, Reorder
Richard Rohr recently published a book entitled "The Wisdom Pattern, Order, Disorder, Reorder." Rohr points out that our culture tends to impose on us positive values on order, progress, and success. An underlying message with these concepts is that the lack of order, progress, and success often leaves us with despair. Rohr goes on to point out that knowing the pattern of order, disorder, and reorder allows us to trust each step, including disorder. As we can know that reorder will come, we learn to trust that each step reveals meaning and character.
The Pandemic may seem like the most disordered time we have known and we may label the disorder as negative. This is different from the disorder of positive events such as graduating from school, marriage, having children and so on. The difference is the labeling of good and bad. Lots of questions, lots of disappointments, lots of changes. It seems that we are going backward from order to disorder. We are seeing the cup half full or half empty. When we see the cup half empty we are more likely to feel a jarring of our faith. The truth is that this is just part of the journey. We, as followers of Jesus, are carrying the cross.
I listened to a video of author Elizabeth Gilbert who said that our spiritual disciplines are made for times such as these. She likened the pandemic to a marathon. Bill Plotkin of adventure journeys calls it a “survival dance.” We can remind ourselves that the survival dance can turn to a “sacred dance.” That is the inspiration of Jesus in our lives, growing toward love, union, salvation, wisdom, and enlightenment. We can do this through awareness or mindfulness - pondering the change and looking at the spiritual meaning for our lives.
He has shown you, O mortal, what is good.
And what does the Lord require of you?
To act justly and to love mercy
and to walk humbly with your God.
(Micah 6:8)
Pastor’s Paragraph - September 24, 2020
Dear Beloved Siblings,
I frequently ask you how you are and tell you that I miss you because you continue to be in my heart, mind, and prayers. I thank God for you. As I continue to reflect on the idea of living with an open heart or tender heart or living from the core, I invite you to pause. Sometime today or tomorrow, I hope you can take time to find a comfortable position and roll your shoulders back.
Dear Beloved Siblings,
I frequently ask you how you are and tell you that I miss you because you continue to be in my heart, mind, and prayers. I thank God for you. As I continue to reflect on the idea of living with an open heart or tender heart or living from the core, I invite you to pause. Sometime today or tomorrow, I hope you can take time to find a comfortable position and roll your shoulders back. Feel your chest open up. Take time to breathe deeply from way down in your being. Feel God's living, moving, creating, restoring Spirit connecting you to God, to God's children near and far, and to God's dreams for the world.
This summer I have been grateful for people who have helped me think more deeply about healing. As a pastor's kid, athlete, and occupational therapist, healing is something that I've thought about in many ways. This summer the desire to live with a fully open heart has led me to focus on God's gifts of healing in new ways. Our hearts need healing individually and collectively, and we were created with the potential to mend and grow. God offers us healing through grace. It is free, but that does not mean it is easy. Healing can be difficult. Healing may not come in the ways we imagine or hope for. Healing has many layers and forms. As I think about healing, I hear Jesus asking, "Do you want to be well?" in the gospel stories. I also hear him asking, "What do you want from me?" Friends, may we seek God's healing of our broken hearts that we may live in ways that create space and opportunities for all people to live and breathe fully. Jesus was about the work of healing. How might we share the love of Jesus with others through the spiritual practice of allowing our Creator to heal and open our own hearts? We are not alone. God will never leave or forsake us. I leave you with this quote. May it be a blessing to you! May we breathe God's healing love in and out~
"Healing is a practice. It's not a one-time thing or an idea. If I get up and do a bunch of exercises and repeat them, over time my muscles will get stronger. Healing is a practice just like that."
Marnita Schroedl, (P. 151 My Grandmother's Hands by Resmaa Menakem)
With gratitude for you,
Sarah
31 The crowd rebuked them and told them to be quiet, but they shouted all the louder, "Lord, Son of David, have mercy on us!" 32 Jesus stopped and called them. "What do you want me to do for you?" he asked. 33 "Lord," they answered, "we want our sight." Matthew 20:31-33
Pastor’s Paragraph - September 17, 2020
In the midst of the pandemic we are also enduring hurricanes and wildfires. Many have suffered illness, death, displacement, the loss of property and the emotional toll that catastrophe entails. Our hearts and prayers go out to those suffering.
In the midst of the pandemic we are also enduring hurricanes and wildfires. Many have suffered illness, death, displacement, the loss of property and the emotional toll that catastrophe entails. Our hearts and prayers go out to those suffering.
The faith and mission of Friedens Church steadies us and gives us something helpful to do.
Our trust in a God who is present in our sufferings brings an abiding sense of peace and strength.
The message of our Leader, Jesus, that we are the loved and loving children of God reminds us of who we are and whose we are.
The mission of sharing Christ's love helps us affirm we are one human family and empowers us to lend a helping hand to our sisters and brothers. We are in this together and we need each other.
The reservoir of spiritual practices in our tradition is a source of calm in the storm, a way to discover peace when anxiety unsettles us.
Here is a spiritual practice Julie, Ashley and I are following, and I encourage your household to try. It is based on this invitation from our sacred and ancient tradition: cast your cares on God, for God cares for you.
It is a simple two step practice:
Each day name a specific care, worry, concern or burden you are feeling.
Ask God to help carry that worry or burden.
This simple practice is a way to acknowledge that we are never alone and we never need to shoulder all of life's burdens by ourselves. We are in this together with Christ our Leader, Friend and Helper.
May the peace of Christ be with you,
Marc
Pastor’s Paragraph - September 10, 2020
All things in our lives change, even our prayers. Over time I have explored new ways of prayer, some of which have enriched my spiritual life temporarily and some for longer term. One of the things I have tried over a longer period of time is starting prayer with some self-examining questions. I often like to take a few notes on my answers. I start by asking myself: how do I feel? This helps me to keep in touch with what is going on in my life that I might need to give to prayer. I might feel tired, drained, anxious, happy. How I feel may be a clue to something that I am not taking time to recognize in my daily life.
Exploring Prayer
All things in our lives change, even our prayers. Over time I have explored new ways of prayer, some of which have enriched my spiritual life temporarily and some for longer term. One of the things I have tried over a longer period of time is starting prayer with some self-examining questions. I often like to take a few notes on my answers. I start by asking myself: how do I feel? This helps me to keep in touch with what is going on in my life that I might need to give to prayer. I might feel tired, drained, anxious, happy. How I feel may be a clue to something that I am not taking time to recognize in my daily life.
I also ask myself: what are my thoughts? What am I thinking about and what is on my mind that might need discernment or prayer. It is also a good time to let go of thoughts to be more focused on prayer. I ask myself: what is my intention for prayer - What do I need right now - love, comfort, discernment?
Because this prayer time is contemplative I ask myself what word I want to bring to prayer to help me stay focused on God's Presence. Sometime I use the word peace and sometimes the peace of Christ. At this point I might ask myself how I will transition into silent resting and healing in the Presence of God. Sometimes I transition by cleansing breaths and sometimes by intercessory prayer for the needs of someone or something which comes to mind.
Then I enter into the process of silent awareness, waiting, healing, and feeling God's love. The awareness of God's Presence reminds me that there is nothing more I need, that I can give time to God and let go of the busyness in my mind. Some say that God is in the silence.
Afterward I ponder my quiet time thinking about how I feel and is this different than when I began. I think about what kind of things distracted me and what insight I received from the time with God. I end with recognizing the result of this time which is often awe or thankfulness, and sometimes amazement that I lasted through the quiet time.
I hope you will consider trying to have a quiet time with God. It does not have to be long. I also hope you will try asking yourself some questions about how you are coming to and going from your prayer time. I would like to hear what questions come to your mind.
Be still, and know that I am God. (Psalm 46:10)
Pastor’s Paragraph - September 3, 2020
In my last note to you in the e-news, I shared that I had been hearing about tender-hearted living very regularly. I also shared that the spiritual practice of examen, which involves reflecting on each day, is something that helps me in my desire to live with an open and courageous heart. Another spiritual practice that supports me in seeking to live with a tender heart is connecting with God's creation.
In my last note to you in the e-news, I shared that I had been hearing about tender-hearted living very regularly. I also shared that the spiritual practice of examen, which involves reflecting on each day, is something that helps me in my desire to live with an open and courageous heart. Another spiritual practice that supports me in seeking to live with a tender heart is connecting with God's creation. Spending time enjoying and giving thanks for the beauty and wonder of that which God has made slows me down. Admiring and reflecting upon God's majesty and nearness revealed in creation offers me healing and space to be curious, imaginative, and calmer. Are there aspects of God's creation that offer you encouragement, healing, rest, and nourishment? What are your favorite ways to connect with God's creation and/or God's creative and creating Spirit? Are there stories in the Bible that connect you with an experience of awe, gratitude, or humility as we feel the power and grace of God? God's covenant symbolized in a rainbow, the parting of the Red Sea, the provision of quail and manna, the calming of the sea, the trembling of the earth in the stories of Jesus' death and resurrection, the tree of life....also invite me to pause in amazement of God's work and gift of our interconnectedness and dependency on God's world.
May you find time - even a few moments or breaths at a time - to soak in the compassion and grace of the Creator, renewing us and strengthening us to go forth as loved and loving children of God.
With gratitude and prayers,
Sarah
317-709-5857 pastorsarah.friedensucc@outlook.com.
"Then the angel showed me the river of the water of life, as clear as crystal, flowing from the throne of God and of the Lamb 2 down the middle of the great street of the city. On each side of the river stood the tree of life, bearing twelve crops of fruit, yielding its fruit every month. And the leaves of the tree are for the healing of the nations. 3 No longer will there be any curse. The throne of God and of the Lamb will be in the city, and his servants will serve him."
Revelation 22:1-3