Weekly Message from Crozet UMC
Crozet United Methodist Church
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Welcome to our weekly Sunday Worship at Crozet UMC
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Nov 5, 2023
Death & Resurrection
This month we take a look at what Christianity has to say about those who have died, dying, death, and resurrection. We do this so that we can have knowledge and comfort for these are the reality for all humankind. The Church is called to comfort those who mourn, and one of the best ways […]
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Oct 15, 2023
Spiritual Gifts: Giving & Helping
This is the closing week of our Fall Worship series on Spiritual Gifts, and this Sunday we conclude with two gifts that the Church, our church needs more than ever: giving and helping. Join us as we discover that both help others in their ministries and those who are blessed by those ministries, as well as […]
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Oct 8, 2023
Spiritual Gifts: Knowledge, Administration, & Leadership
As the Early Church continued to grow and flourish, it quickly needed more localized leadership, connectional organization, and a way to gather and share collective knowledge. The Apostle Paul’s letter to the Corinthian church reveals that some gifts are granted even now specifically for these purposes. They may not appear to be as glamorous or […]
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Sep 30, 2023
Spiritual Gifts: Prophecy & Teaching
We continue our Spiritual Gifts worship series with two of the gifts most often associated with clergy: prophecy and teaching. While both ordained elders and deacons in the United Methodist Church are called to preaching and teaching, lay persons too are given these gifts. What does prophecy and teaching look like for someone who isn’t […]
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Sep 24, 2023
Spiritual Gifts: Faith & Evangelism
This week we begin our exploration of the spiritual gifts of witnessing. These are part of faith sharing, and actually central to the life of the fellowship of believers. Here the focus is local, both inside and outside the local church and congregation. Witnessing is used in worship, Christian education, and church growth. Witnessing gifts help the church deepen its faith […]
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Sep 16, 2023
Spiritual Gifts: Healing & Servanthood
As we continue to explore outreaching gifts, this week we look at two gifts so often misunderstood: healing and servanthood. Healing is not just in the body, but also emotional. spiritual, and psychological. Those with healing gifts may not cure physically, but provide healing just as vital in other facets of the person. We are […]
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Sep 9, 2023
Spiritual Gifts: Miracles & Compassion
We turn to the spiritual gifts that are meant for outreach this Sunday. They are given by the Holy Spirit to those who are blessed to serve and bless those that are outside of the Family of Faith and the walls of the sanctuary. These are outwardly directed to reach out into the community. Often […]
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Sep 3, 2023
Spiritual Gifts: Shepherding & Exhortation
This week we continue our series on Spiritual Gifts, and turn to gifts for nurturing the Body of Christ. Those to whom God grants these gifts are called to ministries such as building fellowship, visitation, encouraging and supporting small groups, congregational care, and tending to the youngest in the flock. These may appear to be […]
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Aug 27, 2023
Spiritual Gifts: Wisdom & Discernment
This week we start our Fall Worship series on Spiritual Gifts. The New Testament repeatedly talks about gifts that the Holy Spirit gives to those who believe in Jesus Christ, but what does that mean? Does everyone get these gifts, or only certain people like clergy? Come learn how God has gifted you in very […]
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Aug 20, 2023
Snarky Jesus, Part 2
Our two part series on Snarky Jesus draws to conclusion this Sunday, but Jesus will not be quiet. Once more he uses jarring satire to expose the faulty thinking of his opponents. He will leave them (and us) thinking about truth and the will of God. Don’t miss the exciting conclusion and the opportunity to […]
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Aug 13, 2023
Snarky Jesus, Part 1
This week we start a two-part mini series on Snarky Jesus. Could our Savior have used snark and sarcasm in his ministry? Why and for what purpose? In Sunday’s Scripture, we discover how Jesus uses snark to convey his contempt for the behavior of the Pharisees, those who have been respected without accountability. This side […]
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Aug 6, 2023
Our Doctrinal Standards: Articles of Religion
Some of the religious authorities challenged Jesus to speak about the political rule and authority of the State: Rome. They wanted to see if Jesus would place God above earthly authority. In a genius response, Jesus places them separately, but both in a place of authority over God’s people. What does the Church believe about government and […]
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Jul 9, 2023
Our Doctrinal Standards: The Articles of Religion – Grace
In the United Methodist Church it always comes back to grace, that unmerited favor God chooses to show to us because of God’s great love for us. This Sunday we get to the crux of our salvation and faith. In this exploration of grace, we discover that grace is more than just forgiveness or pardon; it is the transformative […]
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Jul 2, 2023
Our Doctrinal Standards: The Articles of Religion – Sacraments
Not all Christian denominations have the same beliefs about the sacraments. We do not even all agree on how many there are. Yet the Bible gives us two sacraments very clear in example and edict by Christ. This week we explore what the sacraments are, what they mean, and what we are to believe about […]
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Jun 25, 2023
Our Doctrinal Standards: The Articles of Religion – Sin
Sin is the ugly reality of life and humankind, but it is not the final word. To begin to recognize the tremendous gift of God’s grace in Jesus Christ, we must wrestle with the reality of sinfulness and the prevalence of our own individual sins. Discover for yourself that sin is not our end or […]
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Jun 18, 2023
Our Doctrinal Standards: The Articles of Religion – The Bible
This week we continue to explore the immutable beliefs of the church which constitutes our doctrine in the United Methodist Church. There are several Articles of Religion that address the Holy Scriptures. What do we believe about the Bible? Do we need additional resources for salvation? Join us Sunday and discover for yourself what the Bible really means for us. […]
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Jun 11, 2023
Our Doctrinal Standards: The Articles of Religion – The Trinity
We begin a new Worship series this Sunday on the United Methodist Articles of Religion. Our previous series was on heresy, so now we turn to what we do believe. There are 25 articles, and they cannot be changed in any way, according to the First Restrictive Rule of 1808. These are the basics of our faith, but […]
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Jun 4, 2023
Confirmation Sunday
Confirmation Sunday is a special day in the life of the Methodist Church and this year we’re celebrating our first confirmation group in several years as we continue to emerge from the pandemic. Ten young people are making the choice to join our family of faith and we are so excited to celebrate them today! Associated Scripture: 2 […]
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May 28, 2023
Pentecost
On this the annual celebration of the arrival of the Holy Spirit as Jesus promised, we celebrate the birth of the Church universal: Christianity across divisions and denominational lines. We remember when we were united by the powerful presence of God, and how the power of the Holy Spirit drew people closer to God and one another. God was […]
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May 21, 2023
Can We Dispense with the God of the Old Testament?
Perhaps you have heard someone say that the God of the Old Testament is a vengeful and angry God, then extol the God of the New Testament as loving and forgiving. Are they two different Gods? Do we need to remember the God portrayed in the Old Testament? This Sunday we learn about Christians who […]
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May 14, 2023
Ruth and Naomi: All In
As you read through the book of Ruth, you won’t find any places where God’s voice thunders down to her as you might in other Bible stories. No earth-shattering miracles, like the Red Sea parting, happen in her life. But what you do see is a common life, shaped by faith, devoted to family, and […]
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May 7, 2023
Heresy: Is Grace the Free Will to Resist Sin?
The notion of free will and the impact it has upon human sinfulness has been an ongoing conversation in Christianity. One of the major breaks in Protestantism happened around the concept of free will. What grants us the ability to resist the endless repetition of our sins? What makes salvation possible? At the core to […]
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Apr 30, 2023
Heresy: Did Christ Really Have a Human Body or Did It Just Appear Human?
Even the earliest Christianis struggled to understand what God had really done in Jesus. Since Jesus was the first and only incarnation of the Living God, it has taken believers time to wrap our heads around the concept, much less agree on the reality of our Savior. What real effect does a human body make […]
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Apr 23, 2023
Heresy: Is the Trinity Three Separate, Unique Persons or Just Three Roles of God?
Modalism is a misunderstanding of the doctrine of the Trinity. But how big of a problem is that really? This week we take a closer look at the theology that is most often articulated without meaning to be heretical. What effect might this have on how we think of God and how we treat others? […]
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Apr 16, 2023
Heresy: Does the Christian Covenant Replace the Judaic One?
We begin our new Worship series this Sunday with a long standing concept that the new covenant in Christ replaces the old covenant which God gave to the ancestors of the Jews at Mount Sinai. At the core is the question of whether God replaces people or if God widens the circle, inviting new people into […]
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Apr 9, 2023
Easter Sunday
Your offering makes ministry possible at Crozet UMC! Give today online at crozetunitedmethodist.org/giving/. Your support makes a difference!
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Apr 6, 2023
Maundy Thursday Worship
Your offering makes ministry possible at Crozet UMC! Give today online at crozetunitedmethodist.org/giving/. Your support makes a difference!
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Apr 2, 2023
Lenten Series: Arrival of the Messiah – Lord
This Sunday is Palm Sunday, as we close out our Lenten Worship series on Messianic titles with Lord. The title Jesus wears like a mantle is also an intimate name for God, the Father, in the Old Testament. Why use a name as a title, and how does that shift our perception of Jesus? We will […]
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Mar 26, 2023
Lenten Series: King of the Jews
When the Roman governor, Pontius Pilate, had Jesus crucified, he had a sign placed above the head of Jesus that read: “King of the Jews.” Was that just a taunt, or does it have a deeper, more profound significance? How do we as modern Christians reconcile that our Lord is not just Jewish, but the […]
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Mar 19, 2023
Lenten Series: Arrival of the Messiah
We continue our exploration of the New Testament Messianic titles with Son of Man. Did you know that Jesus is both fully human and yet fully divine? This week we delve into the title that draws our attention to the humanity of Jesus, and helps us appreciate a God incarnate that knows all the intimate […]
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Mar 12, 2023
Lenten Series: Arrival of the Messiah
We continue our exploration of the New Testament Messianic titles with Son of Man. Did you know that Jesus is both fully human and yet fully divine? This week we delve into the title that draws our attention to the humanity of Jesus, and helps us appreciate a God incarnate that knows all the intimate […]
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Mar 5, 2023
Lenten Series: Arrival of the Messiah
This week we explore a Messianic title that is rooted in the second book of the Old Testament: Exodus. Dating back to the first Passover, when God passed over the houses of the Israelites marked by the blood of the lambs they slaughtered for the divinely commanded meal. Discover how the Old Testament illuminates the […]
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Feb 26, 2023
Lenten Series: Arrival of the Messiah
This series carries on the Messianic theme of the Advent Worship series from this past Christmas. We will explore together the Messianic titles used for Jesus in the New Testament, and seek to better understand how they all reveal the nature of our Christ and empower us to connect to him in a new way, […]
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Feb 19, 2023
Infamous Women in the Bible: Eve
We close out our Worship series on Infamous women with the most notorious of all: Eve. Come and see what the Bible actually says about her. After thousands of years of being portrayed as a seductress and deceiver in literature, artwork, and cinematic depictions, it is time to set the record straight. See for yourself […]
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Feb 12, 2023
Choose Love
Valentine’s Day is right around the corner with all the cards, flowers, and candy that go with it. It’s a day to celebrate our relationships with those closest to us. It’s a wonderful day, but God has something bigger for us than just one day out of 365. God challenges us to something much bigger […]
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Feb 5, 2023
Infamous Women in the Bible: Bathsheba
While engaging in a required bath of ritual cleansing, Bathsheba is seen by King David, and her life will be turned upside down. Join us as we explore power differentials and the price of indulging our sinful desires. As much as God declares a love for the heart of David, our exploration of Bathsheba reveals […]
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Jan 29, 2023
Infamous Women in the Bible: Rahab
This week we explore the Biblical account of a woman whose profession is scandalous. Rahab was a prostitute, but the Scriptures reward her willingness to do what was right and just for God’s people. Perhaps God is encouraging us to look beyond the labels and to the willingness to have a heart for others. Associated […]
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Jan 22, 2023
Infamous Women in the Bible: Jezebel
The name of Jezebel is often synonymous with sexual sin, and a slanderous name for women in Southern culture. Who was Jezebel really? We will explore whether her reputation is truly deserved. Born a powerful princess, Jezebel had a lot of influence and material wealth. What was her actual sin? Associated Scripture: 1 Kings 19:1-10 Your […]
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Jan 15, 2023
Infamous Women in the Bible: Mary Magdalene
We begin our new Worship series on infamous women, those who have become known for negative reasons, and we will explore whether that reputation is accurate and deserved. Join us as we dive deep into the origin of the reputations these women have garnered, and explore what the Bible really has to say about them. We will […]
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Jan 8, 2023
Epiphany
We’re celebrating Epiphany this Sunday, the coming of the Magi and the celebration of the revelation of God Incarnate as Jesus Christ, Our Lord. The magi came from very far away to find a king of a people not their own. They sacrificed their time and resources to make the journey, and risked their lives […]
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Jan 1, 2023
New Year’s Day Message
As we begin this new year, we’ll learn about how our church mission statement and the key words Love, Grow, and Go — drive the resolutions to which we should commit ourselves to in the new year. Associated Scripture: Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 Your offering makes ministry possible at Crozet UMC! Give today online at crozetunitedmethodist.org/giving/. Your support makes […]
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Dec 24, 2022
Christmas Eve 11 pm Service
Merry Christmas! This is always a special time of year in the life of the church and especially at Crozet UMC! Today and Sunday we’ve got an incredible lineup of four Christmas worship services with three services on Christmas Eve at 4:00 pm, 7:00 pm and 11:00 pm. Come out and join us during this joyous season in a celebration […]
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Dec 11, 2022
Coming of the Messiah – Everlasting Father
The wonderful season of Advent continues today and we continue to explore the Coming of the Messiah by diving into Isaiah 9:6-7. This week we’ll discuss Jesus’ role as our Everlasting Father. Associated Scripture: Isaiah 9:6-7 Your offering makes ministry possible at Crozet UMC! Give today online at crozetunitedmethodist.org/giving/. Your support makes a difference!
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Dec 4, 2022
Coming of the Messiah – Mighty God
The wonderful season of Advent continues today and we continue to explore the Coming of the Messiah by diving into Isaiah 9:6-7. This week we’ll discuss Jesus’ role as our Mighty God. Associated Scripture: Isaiah 9:6-7 Your offering makes ministry possible at Crozet UMC! Give today online at crozetunitedmethodist.org/giving/. Your support makes a difference!
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Nov 27, 2022
Coming of the Messiah – Wonderful Counselor
The wonderful season of Advent begins today and we begin our exploration of the Coming of the Messiah by diving into Isaiah 9:6-7. This week we’ll start by discussing Jesus’ role as our Wonderful Counselor. Associated Scripture: Isaiah 9:6-7 Your offering makes ministry possible at Crozet UMC! Give today online at crozetunitedmethodist.org/giving/. Your support makes […]
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Nov 20, 2022
Becoming More … Community
We close out of Worship series on Discipleship with the final of the four C’s: Community. This is the relationships we choose, cultivate, and nurture with Christ at the core. Relationships are what makes the church the Body of Christ. This is the core of who we are as a community of faith. Associated Scripture: Acts 6:1-7 […]
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Nov 13, 2022
Becoming More … Cult
This week we explore Cult, the ritual of religion. What we choose to do repeatedly throughout our lives reflects our faithfulness to God. In Methodism, we have rituals we call the Means of Grace, such as the public worship of God, family and private prayer, searching the Scriptures, etc. These are the way in which […]
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Nov 6, 2022
Becoming More … Code
Our Worship series exploring transformation through Discipleship continues this week with Code, what we do as followers of Christ. We will explore how our actions are an intentional statement about who Jesus is. What are your actions saying about Christ? Associated Scripture: Luke 9:23-27 Your offering makes ministry possible at Crozet UMC! Give today online […]
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Oct 30, 2022
Becoming More: Discipleship
In their book, “The Study of Religion in an Age of Global Dialogue (2000),” Leonard Swindler and Paul Mojzes describe the four C’s of Religion. These are the aspects of discipleship, becoming more than who we are without Christ, that empower us to grow and be transformed. This also helps us transform a broken and […]
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Oct 16, 2022
Youth Worship
Our youth will lead us in worship this Sunday. Join us to hear Jack Isley talk about the importance of prayer. You don’t want to miss it! Your offering makes ministry possible at Crozet UMC! Give today online at crozetunitedmethodist.org/giving/. Your support makes a difference!
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Oct 9, 2022
A Christian Response … Pain and Suffering
This week we explore a Christian response to pain and suffering. Those moments often becomes spiritual weightlifting sessions, making us stronger each time we experience it and lean into faith. Associated Scripture: 2 Corinthians 4:16-18 Your offering makes ministry possible at Crozet UMC! Give today online at crozetunitedmethodist.org/giving/. Your support makes a difference!
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Oct 2, 2022
A Christian Response … Anger and Hatred
Anger and hatred are some of the most powerful expressions of human sinfulness, a sickness in the depths of our spirit that creates brokenness in our relationships. As long as there have been people, there has been anger and hatred. Yet we are called to a holier way of being in the world, so how […]
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Sep 25, 2022
A Christian Response … Death and Loss
We continue our Worship series on A Christian Response with death and loss. Death affects everyone in the course of our lives. When someone we love dies, we experience loss unlike any other. How do we continue to live? Can we thrive again? Yes, the Bible reveals how Isaac did just that after the loss […]
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Sep 18, 2022
A Christian Response … To Conflict
Our new Worship series will focus on how Christians can respond to difficult situations and contexts in our lives. We begin with conflict. Serious disagreements arise in relationships, even healthy and holy ones. How can we address it and work through it? Join us this Sunday to see how Jesus navigated these difficult waters. Associated […]
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Sep 11, 2022
Healthy Ways to Mourn
On the anniversary of the tragedy of September 11th, we examine what it means to mourn in a way that is appropriate, healthy, and healing. Join us as we explore the Bible’s guidance for those who mourn as individuals as well as a community. Associated Scripture: Jeremiah 8:18-21 Your offering makes ministry possible at Crozet […]
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Sep 4, 2022
The Future of Methodism
What does the future of the United Methodist Church hold? We cannot predict, but we can decide for ourselves as individual disciples, members of the local church, and part of the global denomination what we want to strive to bring about and then work to ensure that our ministry reveals that hope. Associated Scripture: Proverbs […]
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Aug 28, 2022
A History of Methodism: A World Church (1968-)
Despite decades of separation, Methodists yearned to be together in full communion once more. Not only was a union created with the Evangelical United Brethren, but together they boldly pushed forward for the inclusion of full clergy status of women. Grace would be the calling card of Methodism moving forward. Associated Scripture: 2 Corinthians 5:14-21 […]
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Aug 21, 2022
A History of Methodism: The Quest for Unity
World War I and II created a profound sense that the brokenness of Methodism should be addressed, if not repaired. Methodists in the United States began to strive earnestly for reunion. Could the Church find peace and model it for a broken, war-ravaged world? Associated Scripture: Ephesians 4:1-6 Your offering makes ministry possible at Crozet […]
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Aug 14, 2022
A History of Methodism: Division and Brokenness
The first major break in Methodism occurred over slavery. John Wesley was an ardent opponent of slavery, and it was outlawed in the Church in 1789. Yet as slavery was dividing the nation, so too did it divide Methodism. We explore one of the principle texts used to undergird the inclusion of slave holders in […]
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Aug 7, 2022
A History of Methodism: Revival and Growth
The United States was experiencing a Second Great Awakening, a spiritual movement filled with revivals and camp meetings in which Methodism flourished. It was experimental in nature and flexible in structure, but the threat of schism is looming. In that liminal space between what was and what would be, the Methodists of the early nineteenth […]
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Jul 25, 2022
A History of Methodism: Holiness; Revival
Starting at the beginning, we explore Methodism’s genesis. England was experiencing a revival, known as the Holiness Movement, and that is where we meet two brothers, John and Charles Wesley. From humble beginnings came a radical articulation of God’s grace and a passion for living it out. Associated Scripture: Ephesians 4:17-24 Your offering makes ministry […]
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Jul 17, 2022
Justice, Mercy and Humility
Justice, Mercy, Humility. We frequently hear these words in the news, in social media, and even conversation. Everyone has an opinion of what they mean, but what does GOD have to say about it? Believe it or not, long before the birth of Christ, the Prophet Micah had a very specific answer to the question. […]
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Jul 10, 2022
Graceful Exits: Life
This Sunday we close out our series on Graceful Exits by focusing on every person’s final exit: death. How do we gracefully exit life? Does it really matter? Yes! A graceful exit from life can be one of the last and yet greatest gifts we can give to those we love. Join us as we […]
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Jul 3, 2022
Graceful Exits: Churches
The reality is that very few Christians stay at the same church their whole lives these days. You may move to go away to school, when you get a new job, or when you retire. Maybe you find yourself looking for a different worship style. Or perhaps you have a tragic, painful experience with another Christian. No […]
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Jun 26, 2022
Graceful Exits: Jobs
As believers, we are called upon to be grace-filled people. God grants us grace, but sometimes it remains a challenge to be graceful. Does it matter how we leave a job? Yes, we have guidance from Jesus, the Apostle Paul, and other scriptures that directs us to resist the temptation to walk off or leave things to implode when […]
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Jun 19, 2022
Graceful Exits: Relationships
Relationships are a central part of being social beings. We were created by the Triune God to reflect the relationality of God’s self and magnify right relationship as the Body of Christ as well as our personal relationships. Yet sometimes, despite our best efforts and yearning of the heart, relationships come to an end. How […]
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Jun 12, 2022
Graceful Exits: Conversations
We begin a new series this Sunday, “Graceful Exits.” We will explore how we can leave gracefully, meaning in honor and goodwill. Christians, those that bear the name of Christ, are called to gracefully exit from something as temporary as a conversation to something as final as life itself. The Bible and the teachings of […]
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Jun 5, 2022
Pentacost
Your offering makes ministry possible at Crozet UMC! Give today online at crozetunitedmethodist.org/giving/. Your support makes a difference!
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May 29, 2022
I Love to Tell … Your Story
As Christians, we tell the story of Jesus, and we tell our story of experience with that same Jesus, but we are invited through the Church, the body of Christ, to learn and share one another’s stories. Yet care and caution must be used to make sure that we neither misappropriate and miscommunicate another’s truth. […]
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May 22, 2022
I Love to Tell … My Story (My Testimony)
When we have occasion to tell our story as individual Christians, it can be overwhelming to the point that we shrink back into silence. Yet our story is an important prelude to the story that is unfolding in the one with whom we tell our testimony. Hearing one can bring forth the other. We cannot […]
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May 15, 2022
I Love to Tell … Our Story
What is the story of the Church? It is bigger than any single denomination or doctrinal coalition. It is a story that precedes and supersedes all earthly affiliation of Christians. We invite you to discover alongside us the simple, yet profound story of the Church of Christ that remains the foundation of every denomination and each […]
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May 8, 2022
I Love to Tell … The God Story
What is the real story of the Bible? What is God trying to get humankind to understand within the canon of 66 books? Come and discover that God has a clear narrative that culminates in the salvific ministry of Christ, and we can share that without simply handing someone a Bible and telling them to […]
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May 1, 2022
I Love to Tell … The Story (The Gospel of Jesus Christ)
We are beginning a new Worship series that will explore and equip us to not only understand but share the stories that are so important to our faith. This is not memorizing Bible stories, but growing so comfortable with vital narratives that we can share them with others and so fulfill Jesus’ commandment to preach and […]
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Apr 24, 2022
Unanswered Prayers
Our Lay Leader Jennifer Fisher steps in this week for a special message titled, “Unanswered Prayers.” This is a not-to-be missed opportunity to hear the incredible testimony of a member of our church congregation. Associated Scripture: John 20: 19-31 Your offering makes ministry possible at Crozet UMC! Give today online at crozetunitedmethodist.org/giving/. Your support makes a […]
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Apr 17, 2022
Easter Sunday
This Easter is our resurrection as a Family of Faith, as we return in full splendor to our worship life together on the day when we recall that Christ returned to us, for even death could not hold him. We know the Easter story, but do we have a deep comprehension of why the resurrection was so important? Why does every […]
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Apr 15, 2022
Good Friday: Burnt Offerings
The Old Testament recounts how God gave God’s people the means by which they could find forgiveness, reconciliation, and be cleansed from their sin: burnt offerings. These offerings were consumed by fire, and the smoke filled the air. In the aroma and visual display of the fire, God’s people could experience the moment they found […]
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Apr 10, 2022
Palm Sunday
This is the day when Christians across the whole earth recall and celebrate Jesus’ triumphant entry into the holy city of Jerusalem. Scores of people had traveled from all over the known world to celebrate the festival of Passover, the religious holiday that recounted the mighty acts of salvation and deliverance from bondage in Egypt which […]
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Apr 3, 2022
Sealed in the Tomb: Keeping Silent about Church
It has become very commonplace, even popular, to believe that our faith is something to be hidden, compartmentalized from the life we live outside of the Church. Jesus addressed this mindset in his sermon on the mount. He knew that people would be inclined to hide the Gospel for a number of reasons, but he […]
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Mar 27, 2022
Sealed in the Tomb: Consumer Christianity
Is it a service or worship? Do I come to get something out of it or to give of myself for God? How we approach our spirituality and religion reflects whether we have a healthy relationship with God. True and vital relationships reveal the give and take of the connection. Sometimes we give more than […]
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Mar 20, 2022
Sealed in the Tomb: Competition with Other Churches
All too often denominations and even local churches feel at odds and in competition with each other, but this is a false narrative. There are plenty of people to bless and with whom to share the grace of God in Jesus Christ. How can we reframe our desire to increase the faithful in Christ’s Church in […]
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Mar 13, 2022
Sealed in the Tomb: Triangulation
Once again Jesus sets a standard of behavior for those who claim his name and desire his salvation. Triangulation subverts that grace, because it creates a relationship dynamic that is oppositional rather than focused upon fulfilling the divine call to reconciliation. When we try to gain others to our side because we are in conflict […]
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Mar 6, 2022
Sealed in the Tomb: Using Judgement Language
We begin our Lenten Worship series with one of the most common things Christians do, often without even being aware that we are doing it: using judgment language about other people. Jesus warns us not to judge, so in doing so, we set a standard by which God will judge us. If we want grace […]
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Feb 27, 2022
Inspiring Saints: Saint Martin de Porres,The Patron Saint of Those Who Seek Racial Harmony
We conclude our Worship series on inspiring saints this Sunday with a person known as the first Black saint of the Americas: Saint Martin de Porres. His mother was a freed slave of African and Native descent in Lima, Peru. As he was not White, Martin was prohibited from joining a religious order, but he […]
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Feb 20, 2022
Inspiring Saints: Saint Catherine of Bologna, The Patron Saint of Artists
The dynamic relationship between religion and art predates Christianity, but the Church has been a longstanding patron of the arts. While most think immediately of the Renaissance, Christians have been making art to glorify God and reflect their faith long before then. Catherine of Bologna is considered the Patron of artists and was a gifted […]
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Feb 13, 2022
Inspiring Saints: Saint Valentine, The Patron Saint of Love
Secular culture has embraced the Feast Day of Saint Valentine, choosing to celebrate love on February 14, but the love for which Saint Valentine is celebrated was by no means a romantic one. Like Jesus, Saint Valentine focused his faith and efforts on loving God and all people. Perhaps by delving deeper into who Valentine was, […]
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Feb 6, 2022
Inspiring Saints: Saint Therese of Lisieux, The Patron Saint of Missions
Simple and practical are the two words that best describe the approach to faith in Saint Therese, a young Christian woman who died at the age of 24. Despite her youth, Therese was wise beyond her years, and her brief time on this earth has inspired millions and millions of Christians in acts of kindness and […]
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Jan 30, 2022
Inspiring Saints: Saint Francis of Assisi, The Patron Saint of Animals
As is the tradition at Crozet UMC on the fifth Sundays to have an opportunity to pray and receive the blessing of anointing, our Saint Worship series will focus upon a saint beloved for his prayers and love of creation: Francis of Assisi. Join us as we look at how a deep appreciation for God’s […]
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Jan 23, 2022
Inspiring Saints: Saint Joan of Arc, The Patron Saint of France
The young woman known as Joan of Arc is not just a saint but a historical person who participated in the military repulsion of the army of England’s attempt to conquer France in the Battle of Orleans during the Hundred Years’ War. She was just thirteen when she began to have visions and step into […]
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Jan 16, 2022
Inspiring Saints: Saint Anthony, The Patron Saint of Lost Things
This week we explore a saint with some popular expressions of veneration that can be confusing. If you have ever heard someone offer a quick prayer to Saint Anthony to find their lost keys, then perhaps you wondered about the Christian who seems to help those who ask for assistance in recovering their lost possessions. […]
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Jan 9, 2022
Inspiring Saints: Saint Joseph, The Patron Saint of Families
This Sunday we begin a new Worship series focused on saints, those believers who have become beloved to Christians all over the world and throughout history for their devotion and their service in Christ’s name. Saints have often been inspiring to everyday Christians and are looked to for help in time of need. We start with […]
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Jan 2, 2022
Gift of the Magi: Every Generations’ Gift
We conclude our Advent and Christmas Worship Series today with the arrival of the Magi, those for whom O. Henry’s short story, “The Gift of the Magi” was named. They came from very far away to find a king of a people not their own. They sacrificed their time and resources to make the journey […]
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Dec 26, 2021
The Gift of the Magi: Generation Alpha
We end our Advent journey with a generation that has yet to be defined, and they will one day define themselves: Generation Alpha. These are the children that have already survived a global pandemic, lived through almost two years in social isolation, and yet they continue to persevere. What might Christ have us do to […]
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Dec 25, 2021
The Gift of the Magi: Millennials
From our 11 pm Christmas Eve service. Your offering makes ministry possible at Crozet UMC! Give today online at crozetunitedmethodist.org/giving/. Your support makes a difference!
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Dec 24, 2021
Thr Gift of the Magi: Millennials
From our 7 pm Christmas Eve service. Your offering makes ministry possible at Crozet UMC! Give today online at crozetunitedmethodist.org/giving/. Your support makes a difference!
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Dec 24, 2021
The Gift of the Magi: Generation Z
From our 4 pm Christmas Eve Service. Your offering makes ministry possible at Crozet UMC! Give today online at crozetunitedmethodist.org/giving/. Your support makes a difference!
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Dec 19, 2021
The Gift of the Magi: Generation X
Generation X has experienced some of the greatest economic crises since the Great Depression: the dotcom bust, the housing bubble burst, and the Great Recession. They carry more than half of the credit card debt in this country, but they are not defined by debt, but their endurance. They continue to generate culture at an […]
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Dec 12, 2021
The Gift of the Magi: The Baby Boomers
After the end of World War II, a numerous generation was born, and we know them as The Baby Boomers. They transformed the landscape of Christianity and brought their values of progress, analytical thinking, and educational reforms into being. Discover how they continue to be a significant contribution to the expression of faith in this country […]
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Dec 6, 2021
The Gift of the Magi: The Silent Generation
We continue to explore the generations, and this week we honor those known as The Silent Generation. They chose to express themselves not in words, but work, and that has shaped not only this nation, but Christianity. Join us as we explore just how blessed we have been by them. Associated Scripture: Proverbs 11:12-14 Your […]
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Nov 28, 2021
The Gift of the Magi: The Greatest Generation
As we begin our journey towards the annual celebration of the birth of the Christ child, we have the opportunity to explore who we are. Almost two years of a global pandemic has changed us, and now is the perfect time to reflect on who we were and who we are, even as we look […]
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Nov 21, 2021
Transforming Tithing
Last week we explored how tithing transforms both the gift and the giver. This week we explore how to transform our tithing, our gifts given to God, from money into ministry and mission. How do we get to the point where we can tithe? What will happen if we try? Can we really expect a miraculous […]
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Nov 14, 2021
Tithing Transforms
Tithing, giving ten percent of all that one earns, was an essential element of religious life for the Ancient Israelites and their spiritual descendants, the Jews, throughout the Old Testament. It is assumed that people were going to tithe in the New Testament, as Jesus remarks about tithing practices, but does not spend time defining it. […]
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Nov 7, 2021
All Saints Sunday
This Sunday is recognized as All Saints Sunday in the worship life of the Church. Congregations all over the world remember those of their membership who have died over the course of the year since the previous All Saints Sunday. We once more recall their lives, the blessings they shared with us, and remember with […]
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Oct 31, 2021
The Sacred & The Profane
Why are some things in the church so important to some and inconsequential to others? What does it mean to be holy or hold something sacred? This is what historian of religions, Mircea Eliade, attempted to explain in his work. By exploring the boundaries between the sacred and the profane, or common, Eliade gives us […]
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Oct 10, 2021
Spiritual Truth vs. Objective Truth
Is everything in the Bible literally true? What would it mean if things were stories rather than objective facts and historical accounts? This Sunday we explore the capacity for truth and the value it holds for each follower of Christ, as well as how we as a people understand truth to be. If you have […]
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Oct 3, 2021
Symbolism & Rites
In the religious context, rites are prescribed acts and practices among the community of believers. In Christianity, many of these rites are part of our worship tradition and communal customs. We continue or develop new rites to express how we understand ourselves in relationship to God and one another in a theological understanding. This week […]
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Sep 26, 2021
Diversity Is a Blessing, Not a Curse
In Methodism, diversity in ideas, understanding, cultural expression, and ways of living out our faith, have always been. The original Oxford Methodists were not of all one mind, or had one way of living out their faith, and yet they found unity in Christ, and in doing so, gave birth to the movement that would […]
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Sep 19, 2021
Why Methodism is Worth Saving: Truly a Global Denomination
As proclaimed in the Psalms, God is God to all people, to the ends of the earth. This is why the United Methodist Church continues the identity of earlier Methodist iterations that devoted themselves to being not an American Church, but a global Church. That identity and understanding means that we are the Church when […]
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Sep 12, 2021
Social Holiness Predates Social Justice
John Wesley wrote, “Solitary religion is not to be found there. ‘Holy Solitaries’ is a phrase no more consistent with the gospel than Holy Adulterers. The gospel of Christ knows of no religion, but social; no holiness but social holiness. Faith working by love, is the length and breadth and depth and height of Christian […]
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Sep 5, 2021
A Unique Understanding of Grace
Methodists, even before we became United in 1968, brought to Christianity an understanding of God’s grace and how we experience it unlike any other denomination. While we have formal doctrinal words to describe God’s grace as prevenient, justifying, and sanctifying, what we really have to share is our experience that God loves, forgives, and helps […]
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Aug 29, 2021
Messiah Complex & The Soul-Saving Christian
We close our Toxic Christianity Worship Series with an up-close look at what happens when Christians become prideful and lose the humility that allows us to serve rather than be served. How can one who wants to serve find themselves as one who is now being driven by recognition and pride? It happens more than […]
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Aug 22, 2021
Censure & The Narrow Minded Christian
Change and new things often bring about strife and discord in people, even the Church, yet God has declared time and time again that God is making all things new. How do we find comfort and hope in new things and uncharted territory? When we have heard others tell us we cannot do something new […]
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Aug 15, 2021
Anti-Religion & The Non-Practicing Christian
Believers who reject religious practice have existed since the beginning of divine encounters. It reflects a misunderstanding of what purpose practice has in our lives and way of being. To think that one can maintain a strong bonded relationship with God and not put in the work necessary leads to a tunnel vision faith, one […]
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Aug 8, 2021
Legalism & The Legalistic Christian
When Christians excessively adhere to Church law, doctrines, and tradition, it can lead to a loss of the spirit of God’s Word. To prevent that, we must attend to our spiritual disciplines as individual disciples, and engage in prayerful discernment as the Family of Faith. This dual approach keeps us grounded in Christ, and accountable […]
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Aug 1, 2021
Cynicism & The Cynical Christian
This week we explore cynicism, the skeptical view of others, which can negatively impact our faith, effectiveness in discipleship, and our ability to have healthy relationships. Cynical Christians are not new; even the Apostle Paul dealt with them, and that was at the beginning of Christianity! Perhaps now is the time when Christians begin to […]
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Jul 25, 2021
Hypocrisy & The Hypocritical Christian
Join us for our next Worship series as we examine toxic forms of Christianity and behaviors that undermine our service as disciples of Jesus Christ. We hope to develop an awareness that we might change for the better and become more aware of those things that prevent us from being a fruitful Body of Christ. […]
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Jul 18, 2021
God Gives Pro Bono
This week we take a look at “gratitude.” Is it an emotion? Is it an exchange? What on earth—or beyond—does it say about us? What does it say about our Creator? This week, check us out and see what it’s all about. Associated Scripture: John 1:32-42 Associated Scripture: Psalm 34:1-10, 22 Your offering makes ministry possible at Crozet UMC! Give today […]
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Jul 11, 2021
Peter & Andrew: Siblings
This week we delve into the way Simon Peter met Jesus, according to the Gospel Account of John. Rather than the story shared in Matthew, Mark, and Luke, John tells of how a relationship between siblings served as the gateway to meeting and following the Messiah. Perhaps our relationship with siblings can be more profound than […]
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Jul 4, 2021
Esther & Mordecai: Mentee & Mentor
One of the most insightful relationships we can have is that of mentor and mentee, to have another choose to invest in us their wisdom, experience, and time. Mordecai was not just Esther’s cousin and adoptive father; he became her mentor. Mordecai chooses to guide her, even challenging her to step into her position and […]
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Jun 27, 2021
Jesus & Mary: Child & Parent
There is something holy about the relationship between a parent and child, which is why God uses this as a metaphor for the relationship between God’s self and humankind, as well as the connection between God, the Father and God, the Son. This week we find inspiration in how Jesus took care of his own […]
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Jun 20, 2021
Jonathan & David: Best Friends
Does friendship end with death? Not in the relationship modeled by David and Jonathan. Discover the depths of commitment we can express to honor the place another holds in our heart as we explore the lengths David was willing to go to honor his best friend, Jonathan. Associated Scripture: 2 Samuel 9:1-13 Your offering makes ministry […]
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Jun 13, 2021
Ruth & Naomi: Daughter-in-law & Mother-in-law
We continue our exploration of inspiring and beautiful relationships found in the Bible with those relations not by blood, but marriage, which create an extended family. Culture often frames in-law relationships as trying even painful, but the Bible gives us a glimpse into a healthier, holier, and transformative relationship between a daughter-in-law and her mother-in-law. […]
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Jun 6, 2021
Isaac & Rebekah: Husband & Wife
Our first relationship our next Worship series will explore is that of a married couple: Isaac and Rebekah. Of all the marriages in the Bible, theirs is one of a few that is described with the word “love.” What difference does that make? How can we be inspired to rethink marriage in light of what […]
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May 30, 2021
Trinity Sunday
Join us this week for Trinity Sunday, a day to marvel at and celebrate the holy mystery of the Trinity: the perfect unity of Three in One. While the title “Trinity” does not appear in the Bible, the three Persons do, especially in the Apostle Paul’s final letter before he was martyred. We will explore […]
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May 23, 2021
Pentecost
Pentecost is the day the Church celebrates the coming of the Holy Spirit and the birth of Christ’s Church. This year we will explore what Jesus said about this day and this divine gift and discover his promise to all of us throughout the ages. Associated Scripture: John 14:13-27 Your offering makes ministry possible at […]
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May 16, 2021
The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly Orthodoxy vs. Orthopraxy
We close out our Worship series this Sunday with a classic tension in Christianity. Across the ages, Christians, theologians, and scholars alike have pondered and struggled with the answer between faith versus works. We will have our opportunity to do so together in worship this week. You are welcome here. Associated Scripture: James 2:14-26 Your […]
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May 9, 2021
The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly Supersessionism: Replacement Theology
Perhaps you have heard it said, “The New Testament replaces the Old Testament,” or “Jesus makes the Law invalid.” These reveal a theology known as supersessionism, and it has played a part historically in the relationship between Christianity and Judaism, Abrahamic sibling faiths. Does Christ replace? Do we have the latest and greatest covenant to […]
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May 2, 2021
The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly Inclusion vs. Exclusion
All of us come to experience the pain of exclusion, whether as children, youth, or adults. As we wrestle with theologies that widen the circle or shut the doors, we often gain perspective into ourselves. What may God reveal to you as we embark on a journey to discover whether we should define our God […]
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Apr 25, 2021
The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly: Eschatology Theology of the End of Human History
People have been debating when the world will end since before Jesus was born, and there are still a great many Christians who continue this debate. Does it really matter what we think or believe about the end of human history? Yes! Come and see how it affects everything from how you live to how […]
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Apr 18, 2021
The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly: Liberty vs. Liberation
In a nation that holds the notion and even the word “liberty” in such esteem, distinction between liberty and liberation can be difficult. As we look at two very different theological implications, we invite you to join us to discover the rich empowerment that comes from theology. Associated Scripture: Exodus 3:1-10 Your offering makes ministry […]
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Apr 11, 2021
The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly: Forgiveness vs. Condemnation
We open our new Worship series with a classic tension in Christianity across denominations: do we forgive or condemn? For some, the answer comes quickly, for others, there is pause. Join us as we explore what a good, vibrant theology can do, and how to avoid theologies that harm and become obstacles for others. Associated […]
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Apr 4, 2021
Easter
We invite you to experience the unparalleled joy of the greatest Sunday of the year with us. Easter is the day in which Christians all over the globe celebrate and praise the Lord for the resurrection, that first glimpse of eternal life, for which we yearn. Join us as we recount how Jesus conquered death, […]
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Apr 2, 2021
Good Friday
Tonight we gather remembering the sacrifice of Christ on the cross. We look for comfort us as we mourn the sin that led to this day. We remember the grace that brought us Christ. Join us now as we are transformed by this sacred time of worship. Associated Scripture: Mark 15:1-37 Your offering makes ministry possible […]
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Mar 28, 2021
Palm Sunday
This Sunday marks the beginning of Holy Week, that liturgical time that culminates with Christ’s sacrifice upon the cross, grace for all, and the resurrection of our Lord on Easter Sunday. We begin with Palm Sunday, a day of celebration at Jesus’ triumphant entry into the holy city, Jerusalem. He is greeted with joy and […]
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Mar 21, 2021
Rebuilding the Temple: Love Them Freely
In our final week before the start of Palm Sunday and Holy Week, we conclude our exploration of God’s prophetic word for a post-exilic people with the prophecy of Hosea. Although Hosea spoke to a people almost two hundred years before the Babylonian Exile, his words convey the depth of God’s promises. All of the […]
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Mar 14, 2021
Rebuilding the Temple: Receive New Life
We return to the Book of Ezekiel and the visionary experience the prophet has with dry, lifeless bones in the desert. When we feel that all is lost, and it is too late, God reminds us that for God nothing is impossible. Dry bones come alive, and we find miraculous transformation. Join us as we […]
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Mar 7, 2021
Rebuilding the Temple: Rekindle Your Spiritual Practices
Let us hear the words of the Prophet Isaiah once more. From days of old, his words conveyed the transformation God required of God’s people, and his words have been preserved, not as a dead historical account, but as a vibrant call to those who follow the Lord even now. If the exiled people of […]
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Feb 28, 2021
Rebuilding the Temple: New Identity
By the word of the Prophet Jeremiah, God shares a new vision for the identity of God’s people. They had always defined themselves as a people who came out of Egypt, but hundreds of years later, God transforms their identity into one of a people who have experienced exile and persevered. Their experiences become the means […]
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Feb 21, 2021
Rebuilding the Temple: Making Peace
We begin our Lenten Worship Series facing the monumental task of rebuilding the Body of Christ as it emerges from the pandemic. Do we simply go back to the way things were, or do we reimagine, building a stronger foundation, a more secure connection, and the ability to better respond to the next difficulty to come? To […]
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Feb 14, 2021
Weird Stories of the Bible: A Talking Donkey
Our journey through the Bible’s most strange and unusual texts has brought us to a story about a talking donkey. This Sunday you can discover this outlandish tale about a donkey that can see angels and what happens when a prophet does not! This fun and fabulous tale about one of God’s animals will surely […]
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Feb 7, 2021
Weird Stories from the Bible: A Deadly Sermon
Originally scheduled for last week, this Sunday we look at one of the weirdest stories in the Bible and what happens when preachers preach too long. It happened to the Apostle Paul. Can a sermon be deadly? Join us this Sunday, and we promise not to replicate a deadly sermon! Associated Scripture: Acts 20:7-12 Your […]
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Jan 31, 2021
January 31st Worship: A Snow Day Devotion
Welcome to Sunday Worship at Crozet UMC. We’re excited that you could be with us. Today, in the midst of today’s snowstorm, Pastor Sarah brings us a message from home about grace. Associated Scripture: Isiah 1:16-20.
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Jan 24, 2021
Weird Stories of the Bible: Raven Food Delivery Service
Did you know that God used food delivery long before UberEats and Grub Hub? When a servant of God, the Prophet Elijah, needed food in the wilderness, God used a raven to deliver food. As whimsical as this may seem to us, ravens were considered unclean birds, and they would have “tainted” the food delivered […]
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Jan 17, 2021
Weird Stories of the Bible: Baldness, Bullies, and Bears
In our exploration of strange texts from the Bible, we read this Sunday about a bizarre encounter one of God’s prophets has with some local bullies. Predatory people who abuse and harass others has long been a tragic aspect of society, pervading across cultures and human history. Today we see that God is not tolerant […]
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Jan 10, 2021
Weird Stories of the Bible: God’s Glory
In between the season of Advent and Lent, we have a period of rest. Join us at Crozet UMC as we explore some of the strange and unusual stories of the Bible before we dive back into the deeper spiritual work of Lent. We will discover some of the stories that are not often taught […]
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Jan 3, 2021
Epiphany
Last year on Epiphany Sunday, one of our children asked what happened to King Herod during Children’s Time. We didn’t have time to go into that, but how often do we pay attention to what happened to King Herod. His desire to protect his power and authority resulted in the deaths of innocent children as he […]
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Dec 27, 2020
“You Have Heard That It Was Said” Do Not Refuse Anyone Who Wants to Borrow from You
We end our Advent journey with the last of Jesus’ teachings about transforming how we respond to others. He ends where he always begins: with generosity. Radical, unparalleled generosity marks every facet of Jesus Christ, and he expects us to take up that mantle and continue the ministry. Generosity is a ministry in its altruistic […]
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Dec 24, 2020
Christmas Eve Traditional Worship With Crozet UMC
Merry Christmas and welcome to our Traditional Worship. Tonight we celebrate with some of your favorite hymns and a candlelight “Silent Night.” Associated Scripture: Luke 2:1-20
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Dec 24, 2020
Christmas Eve Contemporary Worship With Crozet UMC
You’ve heard it said that Jesus’ birth changed everything. Today, come hear the story in a new way, discover what it means to us, and join us in song. Associated Scripture: Luke 2:1-20
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Dec 24, 2020
Christmas Eve Children’s Worship With Crozet UMC
Join us today as we rediscover the Christmas story as told for, and to, children. Associated Scripture: Luke 2:1-20
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Dec 20, 2020
“You Have Heard That It Was Said” Go Also the Second Mile
This Sunday we once more visit the words Jesus entrusted to those who would follow him, love him, and serve the world in his name. What does it convey when we do not abandon others after our obligations to them end? What if we were to choose to continue to be with and for them? Jesus […]
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Dec 13, 2020
“You Have Heard That It Was Said” Give Your Cloak as Well
We continue our journey towards Christmas with the next teaching of Christ about radical reconciliation. When the world lashes out and we feel the sting of attack, we are to respond with words and actions that transform hate into peace. Jesus’ teachings are in stark contradiction to the ways of the world, but only breaking the […]
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Dec 6, 2020
“You Have Heard That It Was Said”: Turn the Other Also
As we once more draw towards the annual celebration of the arrival of the Christ-child, our Messiah, we are invited to examine how Christ has transformed our world as well as ourselves. Only after introspection can we discover where God would have us grow next. This year, we at Crozet UMC invite you to join us […]
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Nov 29, 2020
What Now? Pray for Direction
We close out our Worship series on What Now? with a constant refrain in the Bible and Christian tradition: pray for direction. We are encouraged, even commanded by Jesus, to ask for God’s guidance, so in taking time to go to God in prayer, we are not only seeking the help we need, but nurturing […]
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Nov 22, 2020
What Now? Live Out Love
When we are beginning to feel ready to move beyond our experience of pain and suffering, having acknowledged our loss and emotions, we look for renewed purpose, a direction to move out of the darkness and towards the light of Christ. The Holy Spirit has been guiding Christians in this transition since the first days […]
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Nov 15, 2020
What Now: Cling to God
As humankind, we cling to that which we love and which brings us joy: persons we love, noble ideas, elightenling truths, and hope for a bright and beautiful future. When this world and other people seemingly steal what we hold so precious, we find ourselves overcome with emotion and pain, like David. David’s abrupt change […]
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Nov 8, 2020
What Now: Stay the Course
Sometimes it seems like everything that could go wrong does. After we take time to process and acknowledge our feelings, especially disappointment, we are left to determine what we do next. Our Scripture for this Sunday hints at just this experience for two faithful followers of God: Caleb and Joshua. Having faith in the Lord, […]
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Nov 1, 2020
What Now? Recommit
In the wake of a major event, even if we are pleased with the result, we are left to consider what now? What will our next steps be? Where does our path go from here? This new Worship series will address our desire and need to continually move forward as disciples of Jesus Christ and […]
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Oct 25, 2020
Dealing with Disappointment: Disappointed in Your Loved Ones
We close out our Worship series on Dealing With Disappointment this Sunday with the kind of disappointment that breaks our hearts, because it feels like betrayal. Sometimes it is exactly that Our family, friends, or those to whom we look up betray our trust, our expectations, and our relationship. Can there be redemption from that? […]
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Oct 18, 2020
Dealing with Disappointment: Disappointed in God
Despite certain understandings that circulate in the world of Christianity, you can be disappointed in God. More specifically, you may find yourself disappointed in God’s choices, actions, or inactions. You may feel that God has let you or someone you love down. You may even feel anger in your disappointment; Jonah sure did. What do […]
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Oct 11, 2020
Dealing with Disappointment: Disappointed in Others
This week we shift to exploring the way the Bible reveals dealing with disappointment in others, and the one doing so in this Sunday’s Scripture is none other than God. God discovers that human sin is pervasive, and heartbreaking, even for a heart as great as God’s own. God decides to start again, but then […]
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Oct 4, 2020
Dealing with Disappointment: Disappointed in Yourself
This month we confront feelings of and experiences with disappointment. No matter what your political position, our country is heading towards an election where the results and aftermath will leave a significant portion of our fellow people in disappointment. Everyone experiences disappointment; from the student who gets a rejection letter from a college to the […]
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Sep 27, 2020
In the Name of God: I AM
We conclude our September Worship series on the Names of God with a tricky name that continues to confound scholars, yet shapes our understanding of God. Moses, during his repeated attempts to avoid going back to Egypt and taking part in the Exodus, complains that he doesn’t even know God’s name and the people will […]
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Sep 19, 2020
In the Name of God: God, the Father
For Christians, this name of God is not only poignant, but vital to our understanding of God. Jesus gives us this relational metaphor that is not about gender, but rather the nature of the relationship that Jesus has, and now we who have been adopted through grace, have with God. This is part of the […]
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Sep 12, 2020
In the Name of God: YHWH
What greater sign of God’s desire to be in relationship with us than God giving us God’s own personal name. In Hebrew, this name is YHWH, pronounced Yahweh (ya way). It is also known as the Tetragrammaton, meaning four letter, as it is composed of four Hebrew letters. This intimate name was considered dangerous to […]
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Sep 5, 2020
In the Name of God: Elohim
We begin a Worship series designed to explore the names and titles ascribed to God in the Bible, and how they inform and influence our understanding of who God is. This will be a journey into theology and doctrine as we discover more about who the Bible says God is, and learn new ways to […]
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Aug 29, 2020
Christian Conversations: For Evangelism
One of the most terrifying parts of following Jesus is making disciples, sharing the Gospel. Many Christians avoid these conversations because they feel ill equipped, unworthy, or incapable. We strive not to offend, and fear that our faith may become a place of contention among those we know and love, even amongst our family and […]
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Aug 23, 2020
Christian Conversations: For Healing and Reconciliation
Jesus and John the Baptist had different disciples that assisted and followed them. They had divergent ministries, even though they knew and served the same God. So when the differences become so apparent that they must be addressed, John the Baptist sends some of his followers to speak with Jesus. How Jesus chooses to talk […]
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Aug 16, 2020
Christian Conversations: Negotiating Needs
The Church is composed of many people who are also in various groups within the larger Body. Jesus, in infinite wisdom, gave us the metaphor of the Church as his Body and each of us has a necessary role and is a vital part of the Body. Yet we do not always agree on what […]
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Aug 9, 2020
Christian Conversations: Holy Conferencing
We continue our exploration of Christian conversation with conversation that happens within the Body of Christ, the community of believers. How we speak with one another is different from how we speak with others, not because we respect them less or withhold crucial conversation, but because we use our means of grace together to discern […]
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Aug 2, 2020
Christian Conversations: One on One
As we begin a new Worship series on Christian conversations, we start at the foundation: speaking to another person. It appears to be simple, however, some of our most intense and deeply personal conversations happen one on one. It creates space for relationship, nurtures current relationships, and fosters space to be authentic and vulnerable. How […]
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Jul 26, 2020
Origin Stories: Intelligent Design
This Sunday we close out our worship series on origin stories and theories of creation with a lesser known theory in many Christian circles, but one that has compelling arguments for a synthesis of our sacred texts and our God. All are invited to come and experience the theory known as Intelligent Design. Who is […]
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Jul 19, 2020
Origin Stories: Darwinism
Too often the name Darwin makes Christians react with negative emotion. Yet, as people called to respond with compassion and love, we take time this Sunday to explore not just the theory of Darwinism, a specific subset of Evolutionism, but the man behind the ideas. Like all Christians today, Charles Darwin struggled with what he […]
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Jul 12, 2020
Origin Stories: Evolutionism
Continuing our exploration of origin theories of creation, we journey into the depths of evolution, a theory that is often misunderstood and maligned. As awareness is not synonymous with adoption, we shall explore together in community, empowering the Holy Spirit to speak into our hearts and minds. We invite everyone to journey with us as […]
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Jul 5, 2020
Origin Stories: Creationism
This Sunday we begin a new worship series exploring the narratives of creation. How did we come into being? How was the world created? These are questions humankind has posed and sought to answer for thousands of years and countless generations. We will delve into four different theories, some from within Christianity and some from […]
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Jun 28, 2020
Light in the Darkness: The Apostle Paul Acknowledges Anxiety
Even before the added stress and suffering from COVID-19, the National Institute for Mental Health discovered that over 19% of adults in the US suffer from an anxiety disorder. That’s 40 million people! It is estimated that 30% of adults will suffer from an anxiety disorder at some point in their lives. That makes what […]
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Jun 21, 2020
Light in the Darkness: King Nebuchadnezzar’s Episode of Psychosis
As we continue to explore how mental illness is depicted in the Bible, we discover how an episode of mental illness grants us an opportunity to see that human beings are more than their struggles and disabilities. King Nebuchadnezzar was the most powerful ruler in Babylon, the greatest world power in its day, and he […]
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Jun 14, 2020
Light in the Darkness: David’s Struggle with Severe Depression
This Sunday we explore the suffering King David experiences, and the mental anguish from which he suffers. He records his helpless and hopeless feelings in Psalm 22. Intimately acquainted with the mental illness struggles of King Saul, King David now finds himself with feelings of painful solitude, even abandonment, and the fear that pervades his […]
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Jun 7, 2020
Light In The Darkness: King Saul Struggles with Bipolar Disorder
Our next worship series delves into places in Scripture that reveal surprising instances of mental illness. Like physical and spiritual illness, mental illness is a real struggle for many and is more common than we might realize. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, nearly one in five adults struggle with mental illness in […]
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May 31, 2020
Pentecost
This week we celebrate Pentecost, the birthday of the Church. That day the power and presence of God was revealed in a new and exciting way. Even now, the Holy Spirit comes upon us, and grants us power to fulfill Christ’s call to be disciples. Associated Scripture: Acts 2:1-21
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May 24, 2020
Good vs. Evil: The Earthly Struggle and Inward Battle
Even after Jesus’ death on the cross, resurrection from the dead, and ascension to Heaven, Christians have struggled with good and evil, our desire to do what God deems right, but plagued by our inclination towards sin. As we wrap up our Worship series on The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe, we conclude with the […]
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May 17, 2020
Stone Table: Tablets, Altars, and Tombs Made of Stone
The climax of The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe centers around the sacrificial death and resurrection of Aslan, just as Christianity centers around Christ’s sacrificial offering of himself upon the cross and subsequent resurrection on Easter. In the Bible, crucial events are marked in stone: the commandments of the covenant at Mt. Sinai on stone […]
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May 10, 2020
The Witch: Sin and Evil Personified
The Witch of The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe is a personification of sin and evil, like the loose woman of the Book of Proverbs. Today, we explore the motif of temptation and the human inclination to follow the paths of sin. Join with us as we look more closely into the power and lure […]
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May 3, 2020
Aslan: The Christ Figure and Savior of Narnia
This week, we explore the character of Aslan, the Messianic figure of The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe. This lion is the fulcrum for the climax of the story, and the one who reveals the hope of the entire country of Narnia. Like our Lord, Jesus Christ, Aslan offers himself up in place of those […]
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Apr 26, 2020
Turkish Delight: The Temptation of Sin
This week we continue our Worship series on the Christian imagery and story of The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe. On Sunday we’ll be exploring the symbol of Turkish Delight, a tasty treat that entices Edmund into a dark and deadly deal with the White Witch. How far will he go to obtain more Turkish Delight? What […]
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Apr 19, 2020
Edmund: The Human, The Sinner, and the Doubting Thomas
This week we begin an exciting new Worship series that explores Christianity through the book by C.S. Lewis, The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe. Lewis, a prolific Christian author, uses the story of four children and their journey into the land of Narnia as an allegory for Christianity. We will explore together some of the […]
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Apr 13, 2020
Easter
Easter does not look how we planned, but then again, the first Easter did not look how the Apostles planned either. They never thought in less than a week Jesus would be dead, or that one of their own would have betrayed him. They awoke that first Easter morning to a world we have never known: […]
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Apr 10, 2020
Good Friday
Jesus willingly took upon himself out sin and death. There is nothing more poignant that that truth: Jesus died for us. In exchange, we can be forgiven and live for all eternity. Once a year, we are invited into a liturgical journey through the passion and crucifixion, the suffering and death of Jesus. This year, […]
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Apr 9, 2020
Maundy Thursday
This year we are doing Maundy Thursday a little differently. Usually the order of worship allows for a brief reading of just part of what Jesus said and did in the Gospel Account of John, followed by a sermon to illuminate that snippet of Scripture, and then Holy Communion. Due to circumstances being what they […]
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Apr 5, 2020
Palm Sunday: Faith in Isolation (Part 4)
When the earthly rulers and powers caused Daniel to be alone, God did not abandon him. God made sure Daniel felt the divine presence and not forsaken. Now more than ever, we need to attune ourselves to see, hear, and experience God, even when our normal means of doing so have been separated from us. […]
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Mar 29, 2020
Faith in Isolation (Part 3)
We find ourselves in a continued state of separation from one another. For some this may be a welcome sabbath. For some this may be a struggle to endure. No matter how you feel about the isolation, we can hear the cries of others. We can recall that permanent separation causes pain and suffering, and […]
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Mar 22, 2020
Faith in Isolation (Part 2)
We serve a God who transforms. God transforms our sinfulness through grace into a bright and beautiful future in the Kingdom to Come for all eternity. God transforms earthly pain and suffering into wisdom and experience that enables us to resist evil and be vessels of love for others. God transforms negative circumstances into opportunities […]
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Mar 15, 2020
Faith in Isolation (Part 1)
When we find ourselves in a state of visual and physical separation from one another as we are in this time of isolation and quarantine, we can feel very abandoned, cut off, and lost. Yet we are reminded that nothing and no one can separate us from God. Today, come and discover for yourself how […]
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Mar 8, 2020
Beloved, Pray for Us: Prayer with Conviction
This week we explore another lesson from Jesus about prayer. When Peter notices that Jesus was able to curse and wither a fig tree with just his words, he points it out to Jesus with astonishment. Jesus responds with a command to have faith and believe in what we pray, not only that it can […]
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Mar 1, 2020
Beloved, Pray for Us: Pray Like Jesus
We begin our Easter Worship series with Jesus teaching the Apostles to pray. He explains that the attitude by which we offer our prayers sets the foundation for the prayers we offer up to God. If we are praying for earthly recognition, then our prayers are not genuine communication with our Lord. Such prayers lack […]
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Feb 26, 2020
Ash Wednesday
The ashes of Ash Wednesday are part of an ancient tradition from the Bible: to put on ashes as a sign of mourning. On this day, we mourn our sinfulness, our willful disobedience, and our waywardness that brings about separation between ourselves and God, as well as other people. We in the Church choose to […]
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Feb 16, 2020
Hurtful Things Christians Say: “Let Go and Let God”
We close our Worship series on “The Hurtful Things Christians Say” with a ubiquitous saying: “Let go and let God.” It is meant to encourage people to trust in the Lord, have faith in God’s promises and power, but it can sound like we just have to resign ourselves to the current situation. It can […]
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Feb 16, 2020
Hurtful Things Christians Say: God Needed Your Loved One
Death and the sorrow experienced by those left behind after the loss of a loved one is painful beyond measure and words. Yet from a genuine desire to provide meaning and comfort, many Christians have told those who mourn that “God needed your loved one.” What is received is that our bond to and love […]
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Feb 9, 2020
Hurtful Things Christians Say: God Never Gives You More Than You Can Handle
Continuing the exploration of the concept from where does suffering come, this week we examine the statement that God never gives us more than we can handle. This position assumes that it is only God giving us anything. Human reality is that we receive good and bad from other people, individually and collectively. Our sin […]
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Feb 2, 2020
Hurtful Things Christians Say: God is Testing You
If you have ever had someone tell you that your suffering is the result of God testing you, then you have probably wondered at this expression. Does God want to cause us pain and suffering even for the purpose of making us better, stronger, or more faithful? Many are unaware that Jesus never says that […]
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Jan 26, 2020
Hurtful Things Christians Say: If You Just Had More Faith
Perhaps out of a sense of tough love or our own frustration with a difficult situation, many a Christian has uttered, “If you just had more faith …” to another person. Even though Jesus conveys such a sentiment in our Scripture text this Sunday, we forget that it is Jesus, God the Son in human […]
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Jan 19, 2020
Hurtful Things Christians Say: “It’s God’s Will”
A lot of good intentioned Christians will utter, “It’s God’s will,” when something difficult is happening in someone’s life, as if God has ordained such a thing. However, most of us would be shocked to discover that the phrase “will of God” appears less than a dozen times in the Bible, and mostly in the […]
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Jan 12, 2020
Hurtful Things Christians Say: The Lord will Provide
Many Christians have uttered the phrase, “The Lord will provide,” and while it comes directly from Scripture, taken out of context it can make those who are impoverished and struggling feel like their situation reflects a lack of love and compassion by God. This Sunday we explore the original meaning of the text, and what […]
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Jan 5, 2020
Hurtful Things Christians Say: “God Made You Perfect”
Our new Worship series deals directly with the things Christians say that while good intentioned and well meaning, can be hurtful. Beginning with the phrase, “GOD made you perfect,” we will explore some of these common sayings, where they originate, and how we might better convey our hopes and prayers for comfort to those who […]
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Dec 29, 2019
A Wesleyan Covenant Service
In the interlude between Christmas and the start of a new calendar year, we will gather for worship this Sunday to partake in a longstanding tradition in the United Methodist Church and an ancient tradition of God’s people in Scripture of renewing covenant. While God initiates covenants, we are empowered and encouraged to renew them, […]
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Dec 25, 2019
Christmas Day: A Charlie Brown Christmas
When Charles Shultz developed this classic in 1965 he was very deliberate in his desire to showcase the true meaning of Christmas. Today, come join us as we consider the true meaning of the birth of Christ as we celebrate a “Charlie Brown Christmas.”
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Dec 24, 2019
Traditional Christmas Eve Worship
The night Jesus was born, the shepherds were offered the incredible blessing of being the first to see the Christ child. Not the privileged, not the wealthy, not the Temple leadership, but the shepherds were the ones to receive this gift. Others missed it, but GOD chose the shepherds. Tonight, join in that same privilege […]
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Dec 22, 2019
Prayers of Confession
This week we close our Advent Worship series on prayer with a prayer of confession from Daniel. Living in exile in the kingdom of Babylon, God’s faithful servant, Daniel, recognizes how human sin, including his own, has led to the displacement of God’s people, the suffering of many, and the brokenness of the covenant. Daniel’s […]
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Dec 15, 2019
Prayers of Thanksgiving
Our Scripture for this Sunday’s worship is well known as the Magnificat, Mary’s words of thanksgiving for the great things God has done for her. Our prayers of thanksgiving are an acknowledgment of God’s mighty acts for us, both as the Body of Christ and as individual Christians. We do not just receive good things […]
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Dec 8, 2019
Prayers of Adoration
Our Advent Worship series continues this week with the prayer of Hannah, a woman once barren who was blessed with a child. Her response is to pray naming the great things God has done and extolling the virtues of the Lord. Sometimes prayer is less about what we want and more about expressing our love […]
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Nov 23, 2019
Christ Transforming Culture
This Sunday is the exciting conclusion of our Christ & Culture Worship series! We end with H. Richard Niebuhr’s theological reflection on Christ transforming human culture and making things new. Methodist theology has long asserted that there is no personal holiness (restoration of the divine image in which we were created) without social holiness (society […]
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Nov 16, 2019
Christ and Culture in Paradox
Jesus himself often verbalized the inherent tension between God’s Kingdom and this world in which we live. This Sunday, we delve deeper into H. Richard Niebuhr’s theological exploration of Christ and culture in seeming paradox, contradiction, and tension. Our Scripture from the Gospel account of Mark displays this tension perfectly as the Apostles, especially Peter, […]
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Nov 9, 2019
Christ Above Culture
Our next worship series will explore the theologian, H. Richard Niebuhr’s idea that our time in this world currently is about preparation: for the return of Christ, the completion of the work in Christ’s name, and the arrival of the Kingdom of God. In the theological construct of “Christ Above Culture,” God is using human […]
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Oct 26, 2019
Felons of the Faith: The Apostle Paul
Our Worship Series on Felons of the Faith will conclude this Sunday with an incredible story of imprisoned Paul pleading for the release from slavery of Onesimus, even as Paul remains in prison for his preaching the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Paul’s physical imprisonment has become the catalyst for his desire to bring social freedom […]
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Oct 19, 2019
Felons of the Faith: Saul of Tarsus – Radical Transformation
When we allow the Holy Spirit to work, radical things happen! Nobody in the early church would have chosen Saul as a messenger of Christ. He was someone to be kept at arm’s length. In fact, Saul was someone to be isolated, shunned, and excluded. Yet GOD had a different plan. Today, we frequently look […]
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Oct 12, 2019
Felons of the Faith: Joseph, Son of Israel
Jumping back into the first book of the Bible, we discover a slightly salacious story of wrongful imprisonment about the favorite son of Israel, Joseph. His story is filled with verbal attacks, physical assault, covetous conspiracy, and injustice. This Sunday we come into the story of Joseph, having been sold into slavery and taken into […]
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Sep 29, 2019
Practical Jesus: Practice Self-Care
We can become consumed with doing, even to the point of working ourselves to death. In a culture of constant busyness, we cast aside the way of being and doing that God models for us. Jesus consistently practiced self-care, that deliberate and self-initiated time for rest and rejuvenation of body, mind, and spirit. Come and […]
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Sep 15, 2019
Practical Jesus: Set the Standard Yourself
People, even Christians, can spend a lot of time and energy thinking and talking about how things should be, and how others should act. This Sunday we learn that Jesus has a better idea: you set the standard yourself. People need to see and experience for themselves the way to be. That is why God […]
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Sep 8, 2019
Practical Jesus: Money Can Be a Barrier to Your Spirituality
This Sunday’s passage might be familiar, but there is a practical aspect of Jesus’ teaching often overlooked: our material wealth can actually prevent us from fulfilling our relationship with God. Our mindset makes all the difference, and we have to make a conscious choice. It is not a choice between financial stability and God, but […]
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Sep 1, 2019
Practical Jesus: Stop Swearing Vows and Promises
“Do you swear?” “I swear on …” These phrases permeate our verbal culture, but Jesus strongly teaches against such a practice. This Sunday you can discover why. The underlying purpose to swearing at all is that our word cannot be trusted, but why would that be so? Authentic words are the expectation from Christ for […]
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Aug 25, 2019
Practical Jesus: Guard Your Words
Words are important. They have meaning, power, influence, and affect others in profound ways. Jesus recognizes that as people of the Word, our words require our attentiveness and intentionality. We cannot be flippant with our words, or we risk causing harm to others. Join us this Sunday as we begin our Fall Worship series on […]
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Aug 18, 2019
Unrealistic Expectations and Their Origins: Christians Are Not Allowed to Drink Alcohol
Many Christian denominations wrestle with abstaining from alcohol altogether or finding a healthy engagement with it. Even Methodism has historically struggled with the relationship between church members and alcohol. So what does the Bible really say? Can you drink alcohol and be a good Christian? This week we get into the depths of this issue […]
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Aug 18, 2019
Unrealistic Expectations and Their Origins: Christians Are All Judgmental
As we close out our Summer Worship Series this week, we end on a controversial topic: judgment. Many outside of the Church believe that Christians are judgmental. The concept of judgment in Scripture is not the same as it is used in our modern vernacular. Come and see how Jesus defines judgment and what our […]
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Aug 4, 2019
Unrealistic Expectations and Their Origins: Christians Just Want to Convert Others
There is this underlying pressure and expectation that the best disciples of Christ will be evangelical and make other disciples. While the Great Commission and Christ’s command to make disciples is a vital [part of our work in the Church, we are not just churning out new believers. Sometimes our work is that of mercy. […]
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Jul 28, 2019
Unrealistic Expectations and Their Origins: Real Christians Do Not Backslide
Real Christians are not perfect, and Jesus never expected that we would be. Instead, Jesus reveals through the Scripture lesson this Sunday that real Christians know struggle, backsliding, and the need to be forgiven by God more than once. Authentic Christianity recognizes that we do not cease to be human and are not inclined to […]
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Jul 28, 2019
Unrealistic Expectations and Their Origins: Christians Are Better Than Non-Christians
Often we hear the charge that we who call ourselves Christians think that we are better than others, especially non-Christians. Or the notion that our faith in Jesus Christ makes us better than non-believers. Yet the Bible does not affirm this. In fact, this Sunday the Apostle Paul argues the opposite: that our weakness as […]
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Jul 14, 2019
Unrealistic Expectations and Their Origins: Christians Cannot Believe in Science
Can a Christian believe in God and science? This Sunday our Worship Series reveals that the answer is a resounding yes, and based upon clear Scriptural foundation. Discover how the Bible does not only make space, but encourages Christians to respect and explore the power and works of God through science. Christians can believe in […]
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Jul 7, 2019
Unrealistic Expectations and Their Origins: Clergy Are Holier Than Lay Persons
As our Summer Worship Series continues, this week we address the notion that clergy are holier than lay persons. From where does this concept arise, and how does that affect our self-image? Distinction is not the same as hierarchy, and separate does not mean better. Instead, this Sunday, we explore the roles and purposes of […]
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Jun 30, 2019
Christians Have to Forgive
Do we, who call ourselves Christians, have to forgive others? Everyone? For everything? This Sunday we examine what the Scriptures truly say about forgiveness and discover the expectation from our Savior himself as recorded in the Gospel account of Luke. Join us as we dive into the text that sets a high standard for us […]
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Jun 26, 2019
Christians Don’t Get Angry
This Sunday we examine a rant Jesus gives about the scribes and Pharisees, the respected religious authorities of his day. Jesus looks closely at what is really motivating them, and exposes their hypocrisy in this teaching. His tone is one of anger, righteous anger, at those who lead others to follow their example into a […]
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Jun 16, 2019
Christians Don’t Get Angry
Our Summer Worship Series will focus on some of the things we hear and the expectations placed upon us as Christians. Are they just and true to what God expects? From where do they come? Join us as we debunk some unreasonable expectations, trace the origins of certain sayings, and discover just what the truth […]
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Jun 9, 2019
Pentecost: The Gift
Before he ascended to heaven, Jesus promised to send the Holy Spirit, the third person of the Trinity, to the disciples. Pentecost is the day that the Holy Spirit descended from heaven, and began to dwell in humankind in accordance with Christ’s words. It is recognized as the birth of the Church, the religion of […]
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Jun 2, 2019
Calling, Charge & Commission: The Redemption
The Gospel is grounded in a promise, a hope, a vision in Revelation: that God is still making all things new, especially us. This is one of the greatest gifts the Christian faith has to share with others. Making disciples is not about membership in the Church, growing a denomination, paying the church’s bills, or […]
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May 26, 2019
Calling, Charge, & Commission: The Challenge
Can you imagine a time when people thought that Christ was not for everyone? Who is in the family of faith and who is not continues to be a discussion in the Church, not just a particular denomination. To whom are we sent? Jesus said “all nations” (Matthew 28:19), and perhaps Christianity has been misinterpreting […]
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May 19, 2019
Calling, Charge, & Commission: The Commission
If you have ever heard of “The Great Commission,” then you may be aware of its power in Christianity. Millions and millions of Christians consider it their duty to evangelize, to make disciples, and bring the Gospel truth to others. This is not about thumping people over the head with the Bible, knocking on doors, […]
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May 12, 2019
Calling, Charge, & Commission: The Charge
If you have ever felt overwhelmed or at a loss for what to do as a Christian, then this Sunday’s message may be speaking to you. Christianity is not about having everything figured out, but knowing where to look for guidance and inspiration. After Jesus’ resurrection, even his Apostles felt lost and confused. They went […]
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May 5, 2019
Calling, Charge, & Commission: The Calling
This Sunday we continue our exploration of the mission of the Church and our personal discipleship. We will also be offered the opportunity to gather at the Lord’s Table, be justified through forgiveness and grace, and empowered to continue to grow in our love of God and others. The story of Saul, the persecutor of […]
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Apr 28, 2019
Calling, Charge, & Commission: The Mission of the Church
As we begin a new worship series, we will be exploring the mission Christ has given not only to the church, but every professing Christian: Make disciples of all people. How do we do that? From where do we draw our guidance and courage to live out the commission? We start by looking at the […]
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Apr 21, 2019
Go Tell The Story
There is no day more high, more holy than Easter. All of the promises of the Old Testament, all the teachings of the Gospels, and all the work of Jesus the Christ culminates in the resurrection on that first Easter. Christians all around the world will send prayers and praise though the atmosphere and proclaim […]
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Apr 19, 2019
Good Friday
Good Friday is the day when Christians all over the world remember and mourn the death of our Lord and Savior upon the cross. The only thing more tragic than his death was the pain and suffering that preceded it. Betrayed by one of his closest friends and disciples, Jesus struggles to keep another disciple […]
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Apr 18, 2019
Holy Thursday – Setting Expectations
In his correspondence with the church in Corinth, the Apostle Paul recounts for them the purpose and central place in worship of Holy Communion. It is a gift from our Lord Jesus Christ, a tangible sign of God’s grace, and a recounting of Jesus’ sacrifice that we might be redeemed. Tonight, come rediscover how Jesus […]
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Apr 14, 2019
Go Tell the Story – Palm Sunday
Jesus’ enemies recognized the power of the crowds of people and feared what would happen if they angered those who followed Jesus into the Holy City that first Palm Sunday. This Palm Sunday join us as we continue the tradition of heralding the coming of our Lord and Savior with the parade of palms, shouts […]
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Apr 7, 2019
Go, Serve All Like Woman at the Well
On Sunday we turn our attention to a woman often known for her sexual sin and who has no recorded name in Scripture. Yet Jesus offers her the opportunity to become known for her effective ministry of evangelism. Her dark and unsavory past becomes the means by which she can testify to God’s presence and […]
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Mar 31, 2019
Go, Serve All Like Nathan
Accountability is often maligned as a dirty word, but right relationship is willing to help us stay on course, fulfill our promises and our potential, and stop us from spiraling into self-destruction. When the prophet Nathan showed up to speak with King David, he had a tough message to deliver from God. David listened to […]
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Mar 24, 2019
Go, Serve All Like Mordecai
You are invited to discover what can happen when we are willing to not only see potential in another, but dare to name it aloud. Such is the story of Esther, a Jewish woman who became a queen and only found the courage to save her people when Mordecai refused to stand by in silence, […]
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Mar 17, 2019
Go, Serve All Like Saint Patrick
This Sunday people all over the world will celebrate the feast of Saint Patrick. While Saint Patrick lived hundreds of years after Jesus and is not included in the Scriptures, we recognize that the biblical truth of Christ was so poignant and powerful that it transformed Saint Patrick, who then transformed all of Ireland, a […]
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Mar 10, 2019
Go: Serve All Like Abraham
Our Lenten Worship Series begins this Sunday by looking at those in the Bible who model for us what going forth to serve all might look like. We begin with a paragon of faith, one who chose to believe God’s promises long before they were tangible: Abraham. Abraham was wealthy, successful, and powerful. Monarchs and […]
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Mar 6, 2019
Ash Wednesday
This Ash Wednesday, we begin our spiritual time of preparation, the inward journey to grow in faith, mature in our walk with Christ, and strengthen our resolve to transform our community for the good of all. The ashes we receive are a testimony to our willingness to begin this season with humility and repentance, so […]
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Mar 3, 2019
Maintain the Unity of the Spirit
This Sunday, the first after Called General Conference, Pastor Sarah will share her experience and the message God has placed on her heart for our congregation as we look towards our future. The words given to encourage the Ephesians in the Early Church ring out to us this day: all of us are called to […]
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Feb 24, 2019
Prayers for Called General Conference
The Bible reminds us repeatedly that we are a people of prayer. As the United Methodist Church’s General Conference meets to discern a way forward, join us this Sunday at 9:30 am or 11:00 am as we lift up prayers for those who are discussing, discerning, and voting on the next steps for the United […]
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Feb 17, 2019
Human Sexuality: Scriptures under Scrutiny, Part 6
This Sunday we conclude our worship series that is exploring the Scriptures often cited in debates around human sexual expression. As the United Methodist Church is preparing to call the question on its stance on inclusivity regarding human sexuality at the Called General Conference in February, we will take a look at these difficult, and […]
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Feb 10, 2019
Human Sexuality: Scriptures under Scrutiny, Part 5
This Sunday we continue our worship series that is exploring the Scriptures often cited in debates around human sexual expression. As the United Methodist Church is preparing to call the question on its stance on inclusivity regarding human sexuality at the Called General Conference in February, we will take a look at these difficult, and […]
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Feb 3, 2019
Human Sexuality: Scriptures under Scrutiny, Part 4
This Sunday we continue our worship series that is exploring the Scriptures often cited in debates around human sexual expression. As the United Methodist Church is preparing to call the question on its stance on inclusivity regarding human sexuality at the Called General Conference in February, we will take a look at these difficult, and […]
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Jan 27, 2019
Human Sexuality: Scriptures under Scrutiny, Part 3
This Sunday we continue our worship series that is exploring the Scriptures often cited in debates around human sexual expression. As the United Methodist Church is preparing to call the question on its stance on inclusivity regarding human sexuality at the Called General Conference in February, we will take a look at these difficult and […]
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Jan 20, 2019
Human Sexuality: Scriptures under Scrutiny, Part 2
This Sunday we begin a worship series that will explore the Scriptures that are often cited in debates around human sexual expression. As the United Methodist Church is preparing to call the question on its stance on inclusivity regarding human sexuality at the Called General Conference in February, we will take a look at these […]
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Jan 13, 2019
Human Sexuality: Scriptures under Scrutiny, Part 1
This Sunday we begin a worship series that will explore the Scriptures that are often cited in debates around human sexual expression. As the United Methodist Church is preparing to call the question on its stance on inclusivity regarding human sexuality at the Called General Conference in February, we will take a look at these […]
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Jan 6, 2019
Epiphany
Epiphany is the day when the Church recognizes the arrival of the Magi and celebrates the divine manifestation of Christ to the gentiles. At its heart, Epiphany is about inclusion, welcoming those outside the Jewish faith into relationship with God through Christ Jesus. This Sunday many blessings come together as we celebrate the sacrament of […]
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Dec 29, 2018
Go: Serve God Like Simeon
As is our tradition at Crozet United Methodist Church, we gather for worship on the fifth Sunday to pray and receive the tangible sign of God’s blessing in anointing. This Sunday we ponder the life and service of Simeon, a religious man who was promised that he would see the Messiah. He may never have […]
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Dec 24, 2018
Christmas Day 2018
“Love is patient. Love is kind…” When Paul wrote to the church in Corinth he wrote of love. Love that holds us accountable. Love that calls us to unity. Love that calls us back to that nativity scene. Love that calls us to remember Jesus Christ. Listen now of that love for one another through […]
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Dec 23, 2018
Christmas Eve 2018
Over 2000 years ago, Christ was born in Bethlehem for all the world. No matter we are or what we have done, it is never too late to discover the gift of the Christ Child. Listen and discover the gift of Jesus Christ.
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Dec 22, 2018
Go: Serve God Like the Shepherds
If you have ever wrestled with your worthiness, then our worship this Sunday is for you! The shepherds of the night shift were not considered to be the best and the most worthy. Reeking of sheep and sleeping outdoors, they were considered to be low class and best kept outside the city walls. Yet God […]
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Dec 15, 2018
Go: Serve God Like the Angels
Imagine you were the angels sent to not only proclaim the birth of Jesus Christ, but do so for human beings who repeatedly break the heart of God, and ignore God’s will. Knowing that instant transformation was unlikely, the angels did what God asked, not because it was futile, but because they knew that things […]
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Dec 8, 2018
Go: Serve God Like Joseph
In a time when men were expected to bring forth a male heir, Joseph was asked to embrace a child that was not his as his own. He risked public ridicule, condemnation, and humiliation for his faithful response to God’s call. The Christmas story would not have happened, if Joseph had followed his own will […]
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Dec 1, 2018
Go: Serve God Like Mary
This year our season of Advent will focus on those who heeded the call of God to go and serve the Lord in doing so. We begin with Mary, a young woman in her teenage years, who was called to be a vessel of the Holy Spirit and give birth to the Lord. Rather than […]
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Nov 24, 2018
A Month of Martyrdom: Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Our final martyr of our worship series, is the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. All too often he is recognized by secular authorities as simply the Doctor, but long before that he was ordained clergy. King’s faith was the force behind his willingness to tackle institutionalized racism, and that enabled him to persevere through […]
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Nov 17, 2018
A Month of Martyrdom: Dietrich Bonhoeffer
At the 2008 General Conference, Dietrich Bonhoeffer became the first martyr to be officially recognized by the United Methodist Church. What was so compelling about this man and his death? An ordained Lutheran clergy person and scholar of theology, Bonhoeffer was given the opportunity to flee from Nazi Germany during World War II, but he […]
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Nov 10, 2018
A Month of Martyrdom: Joan of Arc
At the age of nineteen, Joan of Arc was accused of witchcraft, convicted of heresy, and then burned at the stake. Her crime? She heard the voice of God at the age of thirteen calling her to lead her fellow French citizens to victory in battle against the British military. She did just that and […]
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Nov 3, 2018
A Month of Martyrdom: Saint Stephen
This month our message series will explore the mystical realm of Christianity’s martyrs. A martyr is one who is persecuted and killed for their religious beliefs. Jesus foretold such deaths for those who followed him, and this is what Stephen experiences in the Book of the Acts of the Apostles. Was his death pointless? Was […]
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Oct 28, 2018
Scriptural Speed Bumps: “Sell all that you own…”
As our Scriptural Speed Bumps Worship series draws to a close, we confront one final text that causes Christians to cringe: the exhortation of Jesus to sell all that we own. While we take stock of all that we own and how hard we worked to acquire it, we wrestle with what Jesus appears to […]
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Oct 21, 2018
Scriptural Speed Bumps: “Wives, be subject to your husbands …”
Christians in the past century have wrestled deeply with the implications of this Sunday’s Scripture. Does God set women apart and demand their submission to their husbands? Complementarianism, a theology of separate roles, says that headship roles in marriage belong to men, while support roles are assigned to women. What does the United Methodist Church say […]
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Oct 14, 2018
Scriptural Speed Bumps: “Easier for camels …”
In an era when we seek economic prosperity, Jesus’ words sting. Should we not strive to be financially secure and have an estate to leave to our loved ones upon our death? Were not a great number of our biblical heroes wealthy, such as Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, King David, and King Solomon? Some have used […]
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Oct 7, 2018
Scriptural Speed Bumps: “You always have the poor …”
Once again Jesus, by his own words, seems to be cold and inconsiderate. Countless generations of Christians have wrestled with the implications of Jesus’ words here in Matthew. Was Jesus telling us that there will always be poor people, and we just need to accept that? Perhaps this text makes us despair that the suffering […]
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Sep 30, 2018
Scriptural Speed Bumps “Let the dead bury their own dead…”
The loss of a loved one is painful and the Church recognizes the human need to mourn, so why does Jesus seem to have such a cold response to one of his disciples’ request to go home and bury his father? The Church places the utmost importance on funerals, called Services of Death and Resurrection. […]
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Sep 23, 2018
Scriptural Speed Bumps: “Women should be silent in the churches …”
This Sunday we tackle a huge speed-bump head on: the role of women in the Church! The United Methodist Church has been ordaining women as clergy, Ministers of the Word, since 1968, but many Christian denominations reject this practice. Are we in flagrant violation of God’s law? Do we need to get a new pastor? […]
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Sep 16, 2018
Scriptural Speed Bumps: “Turn the other cheek …”
Just when we thought we had wrestled enough with the concept of “eye for an eye,” Jesus adds a whole new twist! We invite you to join us as we dig deep into the words of Jesus and what he asks us to do in light of the command of an “eye for an eye.” […]
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Sep 9, 2018
Scriptural Speed Bumps: “Eye for an eye…”
When we feel wronged, then this Sunday’s text can feel like justice. However, when we are the one who had committed the wrong, we are not so anxious to enact the words of Exodus. So do we just ignore it, or apply it without consistency? Neither! Join us as we discover the truth behind this […]
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Sep 2, 2018
Scriptural Speed Bumps: “Take up the cross …”
This Fall we confront those parts of the Bible we do not like, that make us uncomfortable, even embarrassed. Those verses which seem to be unhelpful, even hurtful. What do we do with them? We cannot ignore them, so we confront them. Join us as we deal head on with the parts of Scripture that […]
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Aug 26, 2018
Digging Deeper: Kingdom of God
Often the Kingdom of God conjures images of cities in the clouds or streets paved with gold, but the Bible paints a different picture based upon the gifts of righteousness, peace, and joy to be found in perfect harmony and ultimate fulfillment in the Kingdom God rules. This Sunday we dig into the depths of […]
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Aug 19, 2018
Digging Deeper: Spiritual Truth
You may have heard people say every word in the Bible is true. What does that really mean? In the United Methodist Church, we believe that the Bible is the inspired Word of God, and that it reveals divine truth, but it requires work, such as reading it in community, prayerfully and with the guidance […]
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Aug 12, 2018
Digging Deeper: Righteousness
Righteousness is often maligned with self-righteousness, its antithesis. Yet righteousness in the Bible is meant to be the ultimate form of freedom, which we can encounter only through God’s grace. As we dig deep into the truth of righteousness this week, we invite you to discover how righteousness can be yours, and what God has […]
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Aug 5, 2018
Digging Deeper: Messiah
For generations the people of God awaited the Messiah. The title has been used in countless sermons and lessons, but what does it really mean? It literally means “anointed one.” The Messiah was foretold in the prophetic words of the Old Testament, the one who would come to set God’s people free, bring about the […]
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Jul 29, 2018
Digging Deeper: Anointing
On the fifth Sunday of the month, our church uses the biblical practice of anointing to bring God’s blessing upon all those who desire to receive it. Anointing is done through oil, in liquid or balm form, and applied to the object that will be consecrated, made holy. While objects used in worship are consecrated, […]
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Jul 22, 2018
Digging Deeper: Prophecy
The confusion around prophecy creates problems for modern Christians. It has been used to pervert God’s Word, manipulate people, and perpetuate hatred, but no more. This Sunday we discover the truth about the biblical concept of prophecy, as divinely inspired instruction. Join us as we take back the power of prophecy from those who would […]
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Jul 15, 2018
Digging Deeper: Tithe
The word “tithe” usually causes people to look down and away. It sounds more like financial slavery than a gift of liberation. Yet the biblical concept of the tithe is about setting us free from the endless cycle of earning. God meant for the tithe to be a gateway of freedom to open up the […]
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Jul 8, 2018
Digging Deeper: Patriarchs
We often hear reference to “the Patriarchs,” but who are they? What do they have to do with us? While God doesn’t have preference for bloodline, God does honor covenants over generations. Modern Christians are the spiritual descendants of the Patriarchs of the Old Testament, and the faithfulness of God they encountered is our inheritance. […]
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Jul 1, 2018
Digging Deeper: Covenant
As we begin our Summer Worship Series on biblical concepts, we will be digging deeper into these terms and phrases that pop up in Christian sermons and teachings. We can discover that these concepts are grounded in God’s desire for a deeper relationship with us, and they are means by which we can grow closer […]
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Jun 24, 2018
Cheap Grace
As Dietrich Bonhoeffer, the pastor and theologian, wrote, the response to grace is discipleship. When we take God’s grace for granted, or take it and live as if nothing has changed, then we profane God’s love and forgiveness. Once we believe in Jesus Christ, we can claim to be Christians, but God then expects us […]
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Jun 17, 2018
Life Lessons
The Bible should be foundational in the life of a Christian. It complements the accumulation of knowledge gained in the formal educational process, which is not a straight path worldwide. As much as scholarship in classic school subjects is important, more enduring are the learning and the living of lessons from the Bible. They prepare one for […]
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Jun 10, 2018
Social Pressure
Social pressure is a powerful force and a potent reality. Even the prophets and God were not immune to its effects. The pressure to conform drove the people of Israel to demand a king, so that they could be like the other nations. While the prophet Samuel was angry at their request, God’s heart was […]
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Jun 3, 2018
Remembering
With Pastor Sarah in Belize on mission, our Charlottesville District Superintendent, Danny Kesner leads us in worship and presents our message, “Remembering.” Associated Scripture: Joshua 4: 1-7
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May 27, 2018
Fueling Our Faith: Abstinence
Ecclesiastes says there is a time for everything under Heaven (3:1), and that includes talking about sex. Our final means of grace in our worship series is abstinence. It’s not just for those who are single, but for all Christians. Scripture reveals that we are called to seasons of celibacy, but why? Just as fasting […]
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May 20, 2018
Pentecost: Louder!
It’s the birthday of the Church! No, not Crozet United Methodist Church, but THE Church of Christ that is bigger than any denomination, because it includes ALL denominations. This Sunday we celebrate the fulfillment of Jesus’ word with the arrival of the Holy Spirit to stay with us and dwell within us, giving us power […]
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May 6, 2018
Fueling Our Faith: Searching the Scriptures
Have you ever seen a Bible covered in dust, languishing on a shelf, or neglected in an otherwise thriving home? If we all followed this week’s means of grace: searching the Scriptures, then more Bibles would take their rightful place as a crucial part of the disciple’s life. A Bible only helps when it is […]
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