Podcasts about First United Methodist Church

Am I making a difference? Am I fulfilling my purpose? Am I doing the right things? Will this work ever end? If you've asked yourself these questions, you may be experiencing purpose fatigue—the exhaustion that comes from carrying responsibility, striving to make an impact, and wondering if your efforts are enough. You're not alone. Even the prophet Elijah wrestled with burnout, overwhelm, and discouragement. This is Episode 2 of "Taking Care of Mind, Body & Spirit," a five-part series exploring modern wellness challenges through the wisdom of Scripture. Drawing from 1 Kings 19:1-4, 9-14, Rev. Trudy D. Robinson and Sheilah Cameron, LMFT, explore Elijah's experience of burnout and what it can teach us about purpose, rest, and resilience today. Whether you're struggling to find joy in your work, questioning your impact, feeling emotionally exhausted, or sensing that something is off in your calling, this conversation offers practical and spiritual insight. In this episode, we discuss: Why purpose fatigue and burnout happen Warning signs of purpose fatigue, including catastrophizing, all-or-nothing thinking, loss of joy, and struggles with control Practical ways to prevent burnout through self-care, healthy boundaries, and work management strategies The role of gratitude in sustaining hope during difficult seasons How to recognize when your calling or season of service may be shifting About the Series For five weeks, the female pastors of First United Methodist Church of San Diego and Sheilah Cameron, Director of New Life Counseling Center, explore what it means to care for mind, body, and spirit. Together, they discuss information overload, purpose fatigue, mental health, grief, identity, and other challenges through the lens of biblical wisdom and the lives of the prophets. Reflection Questions: What is your purpose and when do you get fatigued in fulfilling it? How do you create boundaries between caring for “your purpose” and caring for yourself? Do you know what it is like to not be able to see the good for being overwhelmed by the bad? Join the Conversation: Whether you're a lifelong Christian, exploring progressive Christianity, deconstructing faith, or simply seeking a deeper spiritual foundation, we invite you to reflect alongside us: Convergence discussion group on Sundays at 12 PM Online Patreon community to connect with other listeners Timestamps: 00:00:00 Introduction to Purpose Fatigue 00:01:02 Prophet Elijah’s Burnout – 1 Kings Chapter 19 00:04:30 Compassion Fatigue, Purpose Fatigue, and Burnout 00:08:27 Can We Ever Do Enough? Catastrophizing & All-or-Nothing Thinking 00:11:11 Caring Too Much vs. Not Caring Enough 00:12:39 God's Response to Elijah — When a Calling Changes 00:14:04 Preventing Purpose Fatigue & Burnout Recovery 00:17:45 What to Do When You’ve Hit the Wall 00:21:24 Gratitude Practice & Finding Joy Again 00:24:15 Closing Reflections & Discussion Questions Topics: Purpose fatigue, compassion fatigue, burnout recovery, Christian mental health, self-care, gratitude, stress management, emotional wellness, healthy boundaries, spiritual growth, biblical wisdom, Elijah, 1 Kings 19, Christian wellness, resilience, calling, vocation, and rest

Rev. Dr. Harden Hopper preaches on Matthew 25:37-40.First United Methodist Church of MariettaGiving link: https://onrealm.org/mariettafumc/-/form/give/nowChurch website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.mariettafumc.org/

This is the June 21st Sunday sermon from the First United Methodist Church in Decatur, Texas. This sermon is taken from Luke 19:1-10.

In this brief update, Pastor Mark shares plans for his renewal leave from June 21 through August 3. During this season of rest, prayer, and renewal, there will be a temporary pause in podcast and YouTube episodes. Thank you for your prayers and support, and be sure to stay connected through the weekly worship livestreams and guest messages from First United Methodist Church of Cocoa Beach. Grace and peace, and see you in August! 

Are you feeling overwhelmed by constant news, social media, emails, and information? In this podcast, Rev. Trudy D. Robinson and Sheilah Cameron, LMFT, explore information overload, anxiety, mental health, mindfulness, and faith—through the surprising lens of the biblical prophet Daniel. This is Episode 1 of "Taking Care of Mind, Body & Spirit," a five-part series exploring modern wellness challenges through the wisdom of Scripture. This conversation is for anyone struggling with stress, overwhelm, decision fatigue, digital overload, anxiety, burnout, or the pressure to stay informed about everything happening in the world. Inspired by Daniel 8:1-27 and the prophet Daniel's experience of receiving overwhelming visions, the topics discussed include: Why we continue to face information overload and how it affects us mentally, emotionally, and physically Mindful practices that can help us and others overcome information overload How faith can help us through mental roadblocks The importance of making time for solitude, accepting inaction, and honoring God’s timing for your life’s callings The need to balance information consumption and creation, honoring the Creator that’s found within us all This is a series of conversations with the female pastors of First United Methodist Church of San Diego and Sheilah Cameron, the Director of New Life Counseling Center. They’ll be talking for five weeks about Taking Care of Mind, Body, and Spirit. Join them to explore information overload, purpose fatigue, mental health, grief, and identity – as inspired by biblical prophets. If this conversation resonates with you, subscribe for more discussions on faith, mental health, spiritual growth, and practical ways to care for mind, body, and spirit. Reflection Questions: How can your faith be a resource to deal with information overload? What information do you need to gather in order for you to do what you can? What of Daniel’s story of faith is important for you to hold on to? Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction: Why we're overwhelmed by information 00:01:43 Information overload and the story of Daniel 00:07:27 Daniel's response mirrors our modern struggle 00:09:01 The guilt of not keeping up with everything 00:12:13 How to set healthy information boundaries 00:14:12 The 3-step emotional check-in practice 00:21:19 Consuming vs. creating: finding balance 00:27:17 Solitude, faith, and hearing God's voice Topics: information overload, Christian mental health, anxiety, stress management, emotional wellness, Christian mindfulness, healthy boundaries, spiritual growth, self-care, solitude, biblical wisdom, and the Book of Daniel

Rev. Dr. Harden Hopper preaches on Mark 12:41-44.First United Methodist Church of MariettaGiving link: https://onrealm.org/mariettafumc/-/form/give/nowChurch website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.mariettafumc.org/

This is the June 14th Sunday sermon from the First United Methodist Church in Decatur, Texas. This sermon is for Vacation Bible School (VBS) Sunday.

When most people think about going to church on Sunday morning, they picture pews, stained glass windows, and a traditional sanctuary. But what if church looked a little different? What if your Sunday morning began with a beautiful sunrise over Lake Oconee, the gentle sound of water lapping against the shore, and a worship service where some people arrive by car… and others arrive by boat? That's exactly what's happening at Camp Collinswood on Lake Oconee, where a unique ministry known as Boat Church is creating a new way for people to connect with their faith, their community, and God's creation. My guest today is Pastor Zack Martin of Madison First United Methodist Church. We'll talk about his journey into ministry, what brought him to our area, and how a pastor from Madison found himself helping launch one of the most uniquely Lake Oconee worship experiences you'll find anywhere. We'll also explore the story behind Boat Church, why it's resonating with people from across the lake area, and how this casual, welcoming service is reaching people who may never have felt comfortable walking through the doors of a traditional church. Whether you're a person of faith, someone searching for community, or just curious about what happens when church meets lake life, I think you're going to enjoy this conversation. Guest: Rev. Zack Martin - Senior Pastor, First United Methodist Church of Madison Website: https://madisonfumc.com/first-boat-church-service/ Email: office@madisonfumc.com Phone: 706-342-3325 Sponsors: Tim Broyles State Farm Insurance https://mydowntownagency.com/ Lake Oconee Family Fitness & Fero Fit https://loffc.net/ Second Chance Boutique https://colinc.org/second-chance-boutique/

What helps you stay grounded when life gets difficult? In this episode of Perspectives, Rev. Drs. Hannah and Brittany of First United Methodist Church of San Diego explore Luke 6:43-49 and Jesus' powerful images of trees, fruit, and firm foundations. Together, they discuss how faith is formed long before life's storms arrive—and why spiritual growth is less about avoiding hardship and more about developing the resilience to face it. The female pastors ultimately ask: What if discipleship isn't a "cost" to be paid, but a spiritual gym where we build the strength, courage, wisdom, and grounding needed to weather life's challenges? This progressive Christian conversation explores: Building faith for difficult times Faith as formation rather than achievement Why Jesus promises storms, not storm-free lives The connection between our inner life and outward actions Spiritual growth as a lifelong practice, not a one-time event Move from control to trust, certainty to surrender Discipleship being a rooting, grounding, and deepening rather than a “cost to be paid” Reflection Questions: What habits or influences are shaping the condition of my heart? Are there areas where my actions do not match my values or beliefs? What practices help me stay grounded when life becomes difficult? Join the Conversation: Whether you're a lifelong Christian, exploring progressive Christianity, deconstructing faith, or simply seeking a deeper spiritual foundation, we invite you to reflect alongside us: Convergence discussion group on Sundays at 12 PM Online Patreon community to connect with other listeners Timestamps: 00:00 Why Jesus Talks About Trees and Foundations 01:15 Scripture Reading: Luke 6:43-49 03:09 Faith Foundations and a Grandmother's Wisdom 05:15 Trees, Houses, and the Practice of Patience 08:00 More Than Saying "Lord, Lord": Faith as Formation 12:32 Why Storms Are Part of Life 18:18 The Spiritual Gym: Growing Through Difficult Seasons 20:12 The Inner Life, Richard Rohr, and Spiritual Transformation 25:53 Discipleship as Formation, Not Cost 27:31 Reflection Questions for Spiritual Growth

Rev. Dr. Harden Hopper preaches on Matthew 9:9-13 & 18-26.First United Methodist Church of MariettaGiving link: https://onrealm.org/mariettafumc/-/form/give/nowChurch website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.mariettafumc.org/

This is the June 7th Sunday sermon from the First United Methodist Church in Decatur, Texas. This sermon is taken from Acts 1:1-9.

What makes music sacred? Who gets to be heard in worship? And where do we draw the line between “sacred” and “secular” music? In this special worship-focused episode of Perspectives, Rev. Dr. Hannah Ka sits down with Sarah Amos, Director of Music Ministries and Principal Organist at First United Methodist Church of San Diego, for a thoughtful conversation inspired by Psalm 150. Together, they explore: Why Psalm 150 gives no blueprint for “correct” worship The history of congregational singing and hymns How churches have institutionalized worship music The blurry line between sacred and secular music Why accessibility and participation matter in worship How music can reach people when words alone cannot From pipe organs and Taizé songs to Methodist hymn traditions and modern worship styles, this episode invites listeners to think more deeply about music as communal expression, spiritual formation, and embodied praise. Whether you come from a traditional church background, contemporary worship culture, or simply love music and spirituality, this conversation offers meaningful insight into the role music plays in connecting us to God and to one another. Join the Conversation We invite you to consider the below reflection questions and share your thoughts with our podcast community. We offer our in-person Convergence discussion group on Sundays at 12 PM and 24/7 connection online at Patreon. Reflection Questions: What makes music sacred to you? When do you feel encouraged to worship using your voice? How has worship reached you when words alone could not? Timestamps: 00:00 Opening Reflection — “Let everything that has breath praise the Lord” 01:14 Psalm 150 Reading & First Impressions 03:05 Sacred vs. Secular Music in Worship 05:59 Catholic Traditions, Lent, and Worship Rules 09:05 Hymns, Folk Music, and Congregational Singing 10:34 Why Singing Together Matters Spiritually 15:58 Music as Worship, Not Performance 18:13 Creativity, Taizé, and Expanding Worship Expression 22:26 How Music Reaches Us Beyond Words

Rev. Dr. Lahronda Little preaches on Psalm 8.First United Methodist Church of MariettaGiving link: https://onrealm.org/mariettafumc/-/form/give/nowChurch website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.mariettafumc.org/

This is the May 31st Sunday sermon from the First United Methodist Church in Decatur, Texas. This sermon is taken from Luke 18:31-43.

This is the May 24th Sunday sermon from the First United Methodist Church in Decatur, Texas. This sermon is taken from Luke 18:15-30.

Conway County Regional Water Board discusses Brewer Lake water level, conservation may move to involuntary June 1; Morrilton hospital exec named President of St. Vincent Infirmary; fire departments extinguish structure fires; NWS forecaster says stationary front should bring good rainfall to area over next few days; SCCSD board handles personnel matters, bus purchases; Conway County Fair Board announces scholarship recipients; school announce coaching changes; we visit with Rev. Bill Sardin, pastor of the First United Methodist Church in Morrilton.

In Episode 1 of The Landscape of the White Church & The American Nation, Rev. Dr. Brittany Juliette Hanlin joins Dr. Karl Martin, Ph.D. for a thoughtful conversation about American exceptionalism, Christianity, patriotism, and the role of the Church in public life. What happens when devotion to nation begins to shape discipleship to Jesus? How do Christians distinguish between what is sacred and what is secular? And how might American exceptionalism contribute to Christian nationalism in the United States? Together they explore: What American exceptionalism actually means How faith and nationalism can become intertwined The difference between the Church and the nation-state Why prophetic critique becomes difficult in American Christianity How patriotism appears in white congregations and worship spaces The relationship between American exceptionalism and Christian nationalism How Christians can respond with love of neighbor and faithful discipleship This conversation is part of a special three-part series from First United Methodist Church of San Diego exploring the intersection of Christianity, culture, race, and national identity. Join the conversation and support the work at FUMCSD's Patreon channel. About Dr. Karl Martin: Dr. Karl Martin is Emeritus Professor of American Literature at Point Loma Nazarene University, where he taught for 27 years. His work focuses on American literature and culture, African American literature, and the relationship between faith and public life. Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction to the series 01:47 What is American exceptionalism? 03:46 When nation and church begin to blur 05:07 Sacred vs. secular in Christian thought 08:44 American exceptionalism and capitalism 11:34 The pros and cons of American exceptionalism 15:41 How patriotism appears in White churches 20:53 American exceptionalism and Christian nationalism 24:25 How Christians should respond with love of neighbor

In Episode 2 of The Landscape of the White Church & The American Nation, Rev. Dr. Hannah Ka joins Dr. Karl Martin, Ph.D., turning deeper into the question of how faith and national identity intertwine in the United States. If American exceptionalism shapes how we understand the nation, what happens when that belief begins to shape how we understand Christianity itself? In this conversation, they explore Christian nationalism: What it is, why it matters, and how it can shape the way Christians understand both the Church and the nation. Together they discuss: A working definition of Christian nationalism How American identity is shaped by ideas of national origin and “founding stories” The relationship between patriotism, faith, and discipleship How Christian nationalism can shape church life and Christian imagination Signs that faith and national identity may be becoming fused How different generations engage these questions in complex and divided ways What it means to prioritize love of neighbor above political identity This episode invites listeners to consider how deeply our assumptions about nation and faith are formed, and how we might more faithfully follow the way of Jesus in a complex and divided cultural moment. This conversation is part of a special three-part series from First United Methodist Church of San Diego exploring the intersection of Christianity, culture, race, and national identity. Join the discussion and support the work through FUMCSD's Patreon channel. About our Guest Speaker: Dr. Karl Martin is Emeritus Professor of American Literature at Point Loma Nazarene University, where he taught for 27 years. His work focuses on American literature and culture, African American literature, and the relationship between faith and public life. Timestamps: 00:00 Intro & Why This Conversation Matters 01:26 Defining Christian Nationalism and American Exceptionalism 03:37 How Christian Nationalism Shapes Identity, Church, and Culture 06:17 Signs of Christian Nationalism in Everyday Faith & Politics 09:23 How Younger Generations Respond to These Conversations 12:09 When Students Begin Rethinking Faith, Nation, and Love of Neighbor 19:15 Discernment, Listening, and What It Means to Love Your Neighbor 22:08 Reclaiming a Gospel Vision Beyond National Boundaries

What happens when faith gets fused with politics and the church loses its prophetic voice? In Episode 3 of The Landscape of the White Church & The American Nation, Rev. Trudy D. Robinson talks with Dr. Karl Martin about Christian nationalism, American exceptionalism, discipleship, and the struggle to keep the church’s prophetic voice alive in a divided culture. Together they explore: How nationalism can silence the church’s prophetic voice Why political division makes faithful conversation so difficult How Christians can love neighbor without coercion or violence What it might look like for faith communities to recover a more hopeful public witness This conversation is part of a special three-part series from First United Methodist Church of San Diego exploring the intersection of Christianity, culture, race, and national identity. It invites listeners to reach beyond simplistic answers to develop a deeper way of thinking about faith, politics, discipleship, and American culture. Join the conversation and support the work on FUMCSD's Patreon channel. About our Guest Speaker: Dr. Karl Martin is Emeritus Professor of American Literature at Point Loma Nazarene University, where he taught for 27 years. His work focuses on American literature and culture, African American literature, and the relationship between faith and public life. Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction to the series & today’s conversation 02:17 Why this topic became deeply personal 04:07 When nationalism replaces the prophetic voice 06:09 Politics, family division & difficult conversations 07:10 “Be More American” vs. God doing a new thing 09:10 Can some Christians become “un-American”? 11:26 Can the ends justify the means in Christian politics? 16:00 Final reflections: developing a deeper way of thinking

This is the May 17th Sunday sermon from the First United Methodist Church in Decatur, Texas. This sermon is taken from Luke 18:9-14.

What does it look like when a Jewish New Testament scholar sits down with a Christian host to talk about how two ancient traditions read the same texts — and reach such different conclusions? That's exactly the conversation host Jean Geran has with Dr. Amy-Jill Levine in this wide-ranging episode recorded in Madison, Wisconsin.AJ Levine is University Professor of New Testament and Jewish Studies at Vanderbilt Divinity School, and one of the most respected voices in Jewish-Christian dialogue today. She recently joined us for our Questions of Faith event in Oshkosh and spent time in Wisconsin as a scholar in residence at First United Methodist Church in Madison.WHAT YOU WILL LEARNHow growing up Jewish in a Portuguese Roman Catholic neighborhood in Massachusetts led AJ to a lifetime of studying the New TestamentWhy the Torah is said to have "70 faces" — and what that means for how Jews and Christians approach interpretation differentlyWhat Jews and Christians share in terms of canon, prayer, and Scripture — and where they meaningfully divergeAJ's surprisingly practical take on salvation, Torah-observance, and whether Jews worry about getting into heavenWhy Jesus used parables — and why he rarely explained themThe difference between Jewish communal identity and Christian individualism, and what each tradition can learn from the otherBaseball vs. football: a memorable analogy for understanding Jewish and Christian orientations toward time, memory, and the futureThe Hebrew concept of tzaddik (the righteous one) and what it means to bless the city you're inWhether shared stories can bridge religious and cultural divides — and AJ's honest, unsentimental answerLament as relationship: what Tevye, the Psalms, and Job have in common, and why arguing with God keeps us in the conversationGUESTAmy-Jill Levine is University Professor of New Testament and Jewish Studies at Vanderbilt Divinity School and College of Arts and Science, and the author of numerous books including Short Stories by Jesus: The Enigmatic Parables of a Controversial Rabbi and The Misunderstood Jew: The Church and the Scandal of the Jewish Jesus.Send us Fan MailCONNECT WITH USSubscribe to The UpWords Podcast wherever you listen to podcasts and visit slbf.org/studio to learn more about our work at the intersection of faith, the academy, and the marketplace.This episode was created by the SLBF STUDIO at Upper House.Produced by Daniel Johnson and Dave ConourEdited by Dave Conour

This is the May 10th Sunday sermon from the First United Methodist Church in Decatur, Texas. This sermon is taken from Luke 18:1-8.

This is the May 3rd Sunday sermon from the First United Methodist Church in Decatur, Texas. This sermon is taken from Luke 17:20-37.

Rev. Dr. Harden Hopper preaches on Psalm 23.First United Methodist Church of MariettaGiving link: https://onrealm.org/mariettafumc/-/form/give/nowChurch website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.mariettafumc.org/

This is the April 26th Sunday sermon from the First United Methodist Church in Decatur, Texas. This sermon is taken from Luke 17:11-17.

Although religion is an inescapable element in conflicts around the world and a polarizing topic here at home, one place of worship in Pasadena, California, is defying religious labels. Amid the crosses and stained glass windows depicting the life of Christ, the First United Methodist Church shifts from Friday through Sunday to accommodate the three Abrahamic faiths. LAist reporter Yusra Farzan takes us through a weekend of Muslims' Friday prayers, a Jewish Shabbat service, and a Christian Easter celebration -- all coexisting under one roof. Read Yusra’s full report at LAist.com. Grow your business–no matter what stage you’re in. Sign up for a one-dollar-per-month trial period at SHOPIFY.COM/paradise Support for this podcast is made possible by Gordon and Dona Crawford, who believe that quality journalism makes Los Angeles a better place to live.

Although religion is an inescapable element in conflicts around the world and a polarizing topic here at home, one place of worship in Pasadena, California, is defying religious labels. Amid the crosses and stained glass windows depicting the life of Christ, the First United Methodist Church shifts from Friday through Sunday to accommodate the three Abrahamic faiths. LAist reporter Yusra Farzan takes us through a weekend of Muslims' Friday prayers, a Jewish Shabbat service, and a Christian Easter celebration -- all coexisting under one roof. Read Yusra’s full report at LAist.com. Grow your business–no matter what stage you’re in. Sign up for a one-dollar-per-month trial period at SHOPIFY.COM/paradise Support for this podcast is made possible by Gordon and Dona Crawford, who believe that quality journalism makes Los Angeles a better place to live.

Although religion is an inescapable element in conflicts around the world and a polarizing topic here at home, one place of worship in Pasadena, California, is defying religious labels. Amid the crosses and stained glass windows depicting the life of Christ, the First United Methodist Church shifts from Friday through Sunday to accommodate the three Abrahamic faiths. LAist reporter Yusra Farzan takes us through a weekend of Muslims' Friday prayers, a Jewish Shabbat service, and a Christian Easter celebration -- all coexisting under one roof. Read Yusra’s full report at LAist.com. Grow your business–no matter what stage you’re in. Sign up for a one-dollar-per-month trial period at SHOPIFY.COM/paradise Support for this podcast is made possible by Gordon and Dona Crawford, who believe that quality journalism makes Los Angeles a better place to live.

Although religion is an inescapable element in conflicts around the world and a polarizing topic here at home, one place of worship in Pasadena, California, is defying religious labels. Amid the crosses and stained glass windows depicting the life of Christ, the First United Methodist Church shifts from Friday through Sunday to accommodate the three Abrahamic faiths. LAist reporter Yusra Farzan takes us through a weekend of Muslims' Friday prayers, a Jewish Shabbat service, and a Christian Easter celebration -- all coexisting under one roof. Read Yusra’s full report at LAist.com. Grow your business–no matter what stage you’re in. Sign up for a one-dollar-per-month trial period at SHOPIFY.COM/paradise Support for this podcast is made possible by Gordon and Dona Crawford, who believe that quality journalism makes Los Angeles a better place to live.Support LAist Today: https://laist.com/join

Although religion is an inescapable element in conflicts around the world and a polarizing topic here at home, one place of worship in Pasadena, California, is defying religious labels. Amid the crosses and stained glass windows depicting the life of Christ, the First United Methodist Church shifts from Friday through Sunday to accommodate the three Abrahamic faiths. LAist reporter Yusra Farzan takes us through a weekend of Muslims' Friday prayers, a Jewish Shabbat service, and a Christian Easter celebration -- all coexisting under one roof. Read Yusra’s full report at LAist.com. Grow your business–no matter what stage you’re in. Sign up for a one-dollar-per-month trial period at SHOPIFY.COM/paradise Support for this podcast is made possible by Gordon and Dona Crawford, who believe that quality journalism makes Los Angeles a better place to live.

Although religion is an inescapable element in conflicts around the world and a polarizing topic here at home, one place of worship in Pasadena, California, is defying religious labels. Amid the crosses and stained glass windows depicting the life of Christ, the First United Methodist Church shifts from Friday through Sunday to accommodate the three Abrahamic faiths. LAist reporter Yusra Farzan takes us through a weekend of Muslims' Friday prayers, a Jewish Shabbat service, and a Christian Easter celebration -- all coexisting under one roof. Read Yusra’s full report at LAist.com. Grow your business–no matter what stage you’re in. Sign up for a one-dollar-per-month trial period at SHOPIFY.COM/paradise Support for this podcast is made possible by Gordon and Dona Crawford, who believe that quality journalism makes Los Angeles a better place to live.

This is the April 19th Sunday sermon from the First United Methodist Church in Decatur, Texas. This sermon is taken from Luke 17:1-10.

Children's Library project back on track; Conway School District admin building struck by bullet; horseback group bringing awareness to foster care to come to Morrilton today; Perryville students observe mock crash ahead of prom, graduation season; report: Conway data center undergoing study; if weather holds out, there will be lots of high school baseball and softball today; we visit with Pastor Bill Sardin of the First United Methodist Church in Morrilton.

The church is the people, but we tend to latch onto the buildings that identify us as a congregation. But some churches across the Great Plains are putting unused portions of their often-larger-than-needed structures to use in new and creative ways. One example is First United Methodist Church in Wichita. It is coming up on a May 1 closing date for the sale of the Wilke Family Life Center, one-quarter of the church's large building in downtown Wichita. What once was home to a number of ministries that no longer require such a large space will be home for The Pinnacle — a nonprofit set up by the Wichita Metro Crime Commission — to provide space for physical and mental health programs for first responders throughout Sedgwick County. The project includes space for therapists and partner organizations to help with physical and mental health therapy for first responders, training rooms, a full gym with workout equipment, athletic courts, and spaces dedicated to cancer and heart screenings. The sale will allow the church to put money toward needed ministries in its mission field while putting the building to use for people who help so many in times of crisis. Rev. Amy Lippoldt, lead pastor at Wichita First UMC joins Todd for an episode dedicated to this subject. 

What if faith isn’t about pretending everything is fine—but about telling the truth? In this episode of the Perspectives Podcast from First United Methodist Church of San Diego, Rev. Brittany and Rev. Trudy explore what it means to not be okay and why that honesty might be the beginning of real hope. After Easter, when celebration fades and real life sets back in, many of us are left carrying grief, doubt, exhaustion, or unanswered questions. Drawing from Luke 24:13–32 (The Road to Emmaus), this conversation reminds us that even Jesus’ followers wrestled with disappointment, confusion, and loss. In Part 1 of our series “The Grace of the Passion,” we explore how God meets us not when we have it all together but when we’re willing to be real. In this episode, we discuss: Why “I’m fine” culture can harm our faith and mental health The courage it takes to face grief, disappointment, and change Why resurrection hope doesn’t erase present pain The importance of community when life feels overwhelming What happens when we avoid grief—and why it eventually catches up How God meets us in confusion, not just in clarity Content Note: This episode includes discussion of deep emotional pain and mentions of suicide. If you are in crisis, please call 9-1-1 or visit your nearest emergency room. You are not alone. Reflection Questions: What are you carrying right now that you’ve been trying to hold together on your own? When has a season of “not being okay” led to growth? When have you felt that God was absent or hard to recognize? Continue the conversation by reflecting with someone you trust or join the Perspectives community online via Patreon or in person at the weekly Convergence Discussion Group. Limited on time? Jump ahead to these pivotal moments. Timestamps 00:00 Intro – Is it OK to not be OK? 00:34 Special content note & episode overview 3:26 Why the Road to Emmaus story matters 7:34 When hope dies after disappointment 10:09 You’re not OK – and that changes how you see things 15:04 Rethinking suffering, faith, and God’s role 19:07 Faith, mental health, and the danger of “just be OK” 21:10 The pressure to pretend in culture and church 23:17 Standing still in grief 24:58 “If you don’t sit with your grief…” 26:43 Reflection questions and closing

This is the April 12th Sunday sermon from the First United Methodist Church in Decatur, Texas. This sermon is taken from John 20:19-31.

George Thomas Hazleton – September 27, 1942 to March 14, 2006 Start Name Artist Album Year Comments I May Be Wrong (But I Think You're Wonderful) Tom Hazleton From The Avenue San Francisco [ASP-101] 1966 3-16 Wurlitzer, Avenue Theatre, San Francisco, CA; from the State Lake Theatre, Chicago, IL. Now in private residence Ft. Myers, FL 2:17 Winchester Cathedral Tom Hazleton Concert: Radio City Music Hall 1973-05-20 1973 4-58 Wurlitzer, Radio City Music Hall, New York; NYTOS Chapter concert 7:36 The Sting (The Entertainer) Tom Hazleton Alive & Well At Pizza & Pipes [Stereo Records APS-102] 4-23 Wurlitzer, Cap'ns Galley, Redwood City, CA 12:00 Announcement by Tom Tom Hazleton Concert: Dendy Theatre, Brighton, Melbourne 1978-07-23 1978 3-15 Wurlitzer, Dendy Theatre, Brighton, Melbourne, Australia You Light Up My Life Tom Hazleton Concert: Dendy Theatre, Brighton, Melbourne 1978-07-23 1978 3-15 Wurlitzer, Dendy Theatre, Brighton, Melbourne, Australia 15:51 Variations on Plop, Plop, Fizz, Fizz Tom Hazleton Concert: Pasadena Civic Dedication 1980-04-23 1980 5-28 Moller, Civic Auditorium, Pasadena, CA 20:51 Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini Tom Hazleton ATOS 1985 Chicago 1985 6-51 Barton, Chicago Stadium, Chicago, IL 25:06 I've Got A Crush On You Tom Hazleton The Alabama Wurlitzer At Its Best [Alabama Chapter 2-CD] 1986 4-20 Wurlitzer, Alabama Theatre, Birmingham, AL; CD set released in 2016 29:33 Don't Be That Way Tom Hazleton South Bank Stateswise [COS Cassette SBW401] 1988 4-23 Wurlitzer, South Bank University, London (ex Trocadero, Elephant & Castle) 32:21 Honeysuckle Rose Trio Con Brio Not Just Another Organ Recording 1992 4-51 Wurlitzer, Organ Grinder Restaurant, Portland, OR; 4m Collins Memorial Pipe Organ, First United Methodist Church, Portland, OR; Rodgers 945, C445 and C-100 36:23 My Heart Belongs To Daddy Tom Hazleton A Little Bit Of This And A Little Bit Of That [DTOS 301] 1993 3-43 Kimball, Dickinson High School, Wilmington, DE 39:36 Announcement by Tom Tom Hazleton ATOS 1994 Regional Buffalo 1994 4-28 Wurlitzer, Shea's Buffalo Theatre, NY; 18 September 1994 Unforgettable Tom Hazleton ATOS 1994 Regional Buffalo 1994 4-28 Wurlitzer, Shea's Buffalo Theatre, NY; 18 September 1994 44:54 You, You, You Tom Hazleton ATOS 1998 San Francisco - Stanford Theatre 1998-07-05 1998 3-21 Wurlitzer, Stanford Theatre, Palo Alto, CA 48:34 Rustic March (Marche Champêtre) Tom Hazleton Scotty's Castle Organ Music 2002 3-15 Welte, Scotty's Castle, Death Valley, CA 51:54 Show Me The Way To Go Home Tom Hazleton Just A Bird's-eye View [Allen Organ CD] 2002 3-11 Allen Renaissance (R-311), Octave Hall, Allen Organ Company, Macungie, PA 55:14 I Guess I'll Have To Change My Plan Tom Hazleton The Paramount Days Signature Series 2003 4-50 Wurlitzer, Bay Theatre, Seal Beach, CA 57:49 There's No Business Like Show Business Tom Hazleton The Concert Experience [NORCAL 2-CD] 2005 4-36 Wurlitzer, Community Theatre, Berkeley, CA: concert November 13, 2005

This is the April 5th Easter Sunday sermon from the First United Methodist Church in Decatur, Texas. This sermon is taken from John 20:1-28.

Samantha Rux joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about the upcoming Kiwanis Pancake Day fundraiser. The Kiwanis Pancake Day fundraiser returns for its 75th year on Saturday, April 11th, at the First United Methodist Church from 7 AM to 1 PM. The event offers all-you-can-eat pancakes and sausage for $10 per adult, with free meals available for kids under six years of age. Attendees can dine in, carry out, or use the drive-through option, with clear signs and pancake-themed helpers guiding the way. Highlights include a magician performing table magic from 9 to 11 AM and special birthday cake toppings to celebrate the milestone anniversary. Proceeds support Kiwanis youth leadership programs.

In this Lenten episode of Perspectives, Revs. Trudy D. Robinson and Dr. Hannah Ka explore Matthew 26:6–13, the story of the unnamed woman who anoints Jesus—and the uncomfortable truth it reveals about us: Why do we deflect when truth feels painful? Why do we “help” in ways that actually protect our own comfort? As the disciples criticize what they call waste, one woman embodies a radically different response: acceptance, courage, and costly love. This conversation invites us to confront a difficult question: Are we avoiding the truth… even when we know it deep down? Join the female pastors of First United Methodist Church of San Diego to explore: Why we instinctively deflect in moments of discomfort How “helping” can sometimes hide our own agenda The difference between surface peace and truthful love What it means to accept reality—even when it hurts Why love, in the way Jesus models it, always costs something This is part of our Lenten series, The People of the Passion, where we reflect on the figures surrounding Jesus’ journey to the cross—and what they reveal about who we are today. Continue the conversation by reflecting with someone you trust or join the Perspectives community online via Patreon or in person at the weekly Convergence Discussion Group. Reflection questions for Lent: When have you had a meaningful experience you didn't know how to interpret? Where do you notice yourself deflecting to avoid conflict or protect yourself? What helps you with acceptance? Limited on time? Jump ahead to these pivotal moments. Timestamps 00:00 Introduction: Love, discomfort, and deflection 01:04 Scripture Reading – Matthew 26, verses 6–13 02:09 Why this story resists easy explanation 04:23 The disciples’ deflection vs. the woman’s clarity 06:20 How the story changes across the Gospels 13:44 Deflection as a human survival instinct 16:52 A modern story: when “helping” hides our agenda 21:55 The cost of love & Lenten reflection questions

First United Methodist Church of MariettaGiving link: https://onrealm.org/mariettafumc/-/form/give/nowChurch website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.mariettafumc.org/

Reel Theology: Where Film Meets Faith — Oscar Season Conversations How do we heal when trauma runs through generations like a crack in a foundation? In this episode of Reel Theology, Revs. Trudy and Brittany explore the Oscar-nominated film Sentimental Value, starring Stellan Skarsgård. Set in Norway, the film tells the story of Gustaf, a filmmaker attempting to reconcile with his daughters after years of absence. As he tries to reconnect through a film he has written for them, the story reveals layers of grief, generational trauma, patriarchal expectations, and the longing for forgiveness. Through the lens of progressive Christian theology, this conversation wrestles with the age-old question of theodicy: How can a loving God exist when so much suffering exists in the world? It's part of a special Academy Awards series from First United Methodist Church of San Diego, Reel Theology, where faith and film meet in meaningful conversation. Listen as the female pastors of explore how the film raises profound spiritual questions that reflect on faith, forgiveness, and the courage it takes to confront what has been broken: How does trauma pass through generations? Why do people walk away from faith when suffering seems overwhelming? What happens when we hide from our pain instead of confronting it? Can reconciliation happen after years of absence? Where is God when families break apart? Want to connect with others about this discussion? Join our Patreon community online!

Reel Theology: Where Film Meets Faith — Oscar Season Conversations What does it mean to live a meaningful life? Join Revs. Trudy and Hannah as they reflect on Academy Award–nominated film Train Dreams. The quiet, contemplative film tells the story of Robert Grainier, an orphaned boy who grows into a railroad worker and logger in the early American West—living a life marked by hardship, grief, beauty, and unexpected moments of grace. And ultimately, it invites us to slow down, notice the sacred in everyday moments, and ask: What are we here for? This is part of a special Academy Awards series from First United Methodist Church of San Diego, where faith and film meet in meaningful conversation. Together, the female pastors explore the film’s deeper themes: • The search for meaning in ordinary lives • The importance of relationships and chosen family • Spiritual connection beyond organized religion • The healing power of presence in times of grief • The beauty of nature and the interconnectedness of all creation Want to connect with others about this discussion? Join our Patreon community online!

Two evenings of choral music are coming to Vancouver as Clark College presents its winter choir concerts featuring student ensembles and accomplished faculty musicians. The Treble Ensemble and Chorale perform March 12, followed by the Concert Choir on March 14 at First United Methodist Church. Directed by Dr. Jacob Funk with accompanist Dr. Jeongmi Yoon, the performances showcase the work of Clark College's music students and are free and open to the public with donations supporting the Clark College Choral Fund. Learn more about the upcoming Clark College choral concerts at https://www.clarkcountytoday.com/people/entertainment/clark-college-to-present-choral-concerts/ #ClarkCollege #VancouverWA #ChoralMusic #ClarkCountyArts #LiveMusic #CommunityConcert

Reel Theology: Where Film Meets Faith — Oscar Season Conversations What does an animated K-pop fantasy film have to teach us about shame, grace, and spiritual healing? In this first episode of Reel Theology: Where Film Meets Faith, Revs. Trudy and Hannah explore the Oscar-nominated film KPop Demon Hunters – a visually vibrant story that turns out to be deeply theological beneath the surface. Together, they unpack themes of identity, hidden flaws, community, redemption, and what happens when we stop trying to save face and start accepting saving grace. Through Korean cultural insights, biblical parallels, and honest pastoral reflection, this conversation asks a powerful spiritual question: What do we do with the parts of ourselves we’ve been taught to hide? This is part of a special Academy Awards series from First United Methodist Church of San Diego, where faith and film meet in meaningful conversation. In this episode, the female pastors discuss: • Shame, identity, and redemption in storytelling • The theology of community and collective healing • Music as spiritual connection • Baptism symbolism in the public bathhouse scenes • Why perfection isn’t the goal of faith Want to connect with others about this discussion? Join our Patreon community online!

On Monday, January 19, 2026, Hudson Mohawk Magazine Roaming Labor Correspondent Willie Terry attended the ALL OF US “Reclaim MLK Day 2026: A Day of Action, Education & Resistance” at the First United Methodist Church in Schenectady. In this labor segment, Willie recorded comments and interviewed Shawn Young, Community Organizer and Co-Founder of the organization “All OF US,” as he shared his views on the event's purpose and what reclaiming MLK Day meant to him.

Non-life threatening injuries reported following crash on interstate; Senator Breanne Davis encourages large primary voter turnout; another unseasonably warm day today, cooler weather expected; Morrilton Kiwanis Club's annual Pancake Breakfast set for Saturday; Tri-Peaks banquet approaching; 2026 Morrilton High School football schedule released; Morrilton junior boys playing for district championship tonight; high school district play continues at Wonderview; we visit with Bill Sardin, pastor of the First United Methodist Church in Morrilton.

Today, on the Hudson Mohawk Magazine, First, Mark Dunlea brings us coverage of the NYS budget hearings on transportation. Then, roaming labor correspondent WIllie Terry speaks with Jamaica Miles, founder of All of Us at the Reclaim MLK Day 2026: A Day of Action, Education & Resistance” event at the First United Methodist Church in Schenectady. Later on, on the Triple Es, H Bosh Jr speaks with Analusette Shalello, founder of DNA Bodyworx LLC. After that, we'll be speaking with May and Chowder, members of the Hellions Roller Derby team in Troy. Finally, Moses Nagel reports on Troy City Council, where the incoming democratic majority has introduced a new local law, Good Cause Eviction, for public hearing.

Will we ever fully know and understand God? And if we could … would that even be God? In this final episode of our Unexpected Divine conversations, Revs. Brittany and Hannah explore John 1:18: “No one has ever seen God. It is God, the only Son, who is close to the Father’s heart, who has made him known.” Through their conversation, the female pastors of First United Methodist Church of San Diego use poetic theology, humor, and real-life reflection to wrestle with: What it means that Jesus “exegetes” (reveals) the heart of God Why mystery is not a weakness of faith, but its depth How Jesus reshapes our understanding of transcendence Why not knowing everything about God doesn’t excuse us from justice Whether Christocentrism is compatible with Jesus’ own ministry How diversity in religions may reflect the vastness of the Divine From TikTok analogies to the Grand Canyon, from Mary & Martha to Sankofa, this conversation invites us into a faith that is expansive, relational, and beautifully unfinished. Reflection Questions: What does Jesus show us about God? Which ideas about God have shaped my faith, and which no longer help me grow? What does it mean that God is not “seen” but is still “made known”? Join the conversation by sharing this episode, reflecting with someone you trust, or connecting with the Perspectives community online through Patreon and in person at the weekly Convergence Discussion Group. Limited on time? Jump ahead to these pivotal moments. Timestamps: 00:00 Opening Question – Can We Ever Fully Know God? 00:46 “No One Has Ever Seen God” – What Does John Mean? 02:51 Jesus as the “Exegesis” of God 06:28 Have We Seen God Through Jesus? 12:32 Jesus Wept – The Heart of God Revealed 16:52 If We Can Explain God, Is It Still God? 20:57 Is Christocentrism Compatible with Jesus? 24:53 Reflection Questions & Final Thoughts

On Monday, January 19, 2026, Hudson Mohawk Magazine Roaming Labor Correspondent Willie Terry attended the ALL OF US “Reclaim MLK Day 2026: A Day of Action, Education & Resistance” at the First United Methodist Church in Schenectady. In this labor segment, Willie interviewed Jamaica Miles, Founder and Director of “ALL Of Us” in Schenectady County, and recorded excerpts from her speech as she shared what reclaiming MLK meant to her.