Podcasts about First United Methodist Church

Rev. Dr. Harden Hopper preaches on Luke 10:25-37. He speaks about the story of the Good Samaritan, and what it means to be neighborly.First United Methodist Church of MariettaGiving link: https://onrealm.org/mariettafumc/-/form/give/nowChurch website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.mariettafumc.org/

This is the February 22nd sermon from the First United Methodist Church in Decatur, Texas. This sermon is taken from Isaiah 52:13-15.

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.

We welcome you to the sermon podcast of First United Methodist Church. This is the third week in the Sermon on the Mount and Jesus takes us into understanding how to study the law. It is not about do's and don'ts. It is all about how to have a relationship.

Rev. Dr. Harden Hopper preaches on Matthew 17:1-13.First United Methodist Church of MariettaGiving link: https://onrealm.org/mariettafumc/-/form/give/nowChurch website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.mariettafumc.org/

This is the February 15th sermon from the First United Methodist Church in Decatur, Texas. This sermon is taken from Daniel 6:16-23.

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.

On this episode of CivicCast I am joined by Henry Grabar, journalist and author of Paved Paradise: How Parking Explains the World. We talk about the biggest misconceptions behind paid parking, Donald Shoup's influence and the self-fulfilling prophecy embedded in many zoning laws.Henry will be giving a free CivicCon talk on Monday, February 23 at 6 p.m. at the Wesley Abbey building of First United Methodist Church, located at 2 E Wright St in Pensacola, FL. Attendees can register at this link.Learn more about our CivicCon supporters at this link.Sign up for our weekly newsletter at this link. 

Rev. Dr. Harden Hopper preaches on Matthew 5:13-20.First United Methodist Church of MariettaGiving link: https://onrealm.org/mariettafumc/-/form/give/nowChurch website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.mariettafumc.org/

This is the February 8th sermon from the First United Methodist Church in Decatur, Texas. This sermon is taken from Luke 16:1-13.

JACKSON— For Jerry Chastain Jr., the annual hunt named for his father isn't just about harvesting deer and hogs, it's about honoring his legacy and bringing joy to children with disabilities and their families. The Jerry Chastain Sr. Memorial Hunt, hosted by the Salt Creek Outdoor Foundation on Jan. 16-17, gave disabled children and their families a weekend of hunting in Clarke County. The event, which provides lodging and family-style meals at First United Methodist Church in Jackson, has grown into a tradition that draws hunters from Alabama, Kentucky, Florida, Mississippi and Virginia. “My dad started this hunt around 30...Article Link

Rev. Dr. Harden Hopper preaches on Matthew 5:1-12, and calls us to act with humility and to sacrifice ourselves to be used by God in bringing peace and redemption to a world, to a nation, that is in such a need. First United Methodist Church of MariettaGiving link: https://onrealm.org/mariettafumc/-/form/give/nowChurch website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.mariettafumc.org/

This is the February 1st sermon from the First United Methodist Church in Decatur, Texas. This sermon is taken from Luke 15:11-32.

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 Arthur Butler, Executive Director of the Schenectady County Human Rights Commission, as he shared his views on what reclaiming MLK meant to him.

Rev. Dr. Harden Hopper preaches on Matthew 4:12-23, discussing how one must make sacrifices in order to follow Christ. Additionally, he speaks on catching others from their proverbial fall with the net of Christ's grace.First United Methodist Church of MariettaGiving link: https://onrealm.org/mariettafumc/-/form/give/nowChurch website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.mariettafumc.org/

What if God’s love isn’t just “out there somewhere,” but flowing through every part of creation—even in people we struggle to welcome? In this episode of Perspectives FUMCSD Pastors Podcast, Rev. Hannah and Rev. Brittany continue their series The Unexpected Divine, turning to John 1:3-4 to explore how life and light are woven into all creation. Through Scripture, lived experience, and historical context, the female pastors of First United Methodist Church of San Diego reflect on what it means to recognize the Divine spark in every person – across disagreement, polarization, culture, and belief. This conversation invites us to rethink how we see God, one another, and ourselves … especially in today’s divided world. In this episode, you’ll hear reflections on: The Divine spark (or sparkle!) present in every human John’s Gospel as a unifying vision across cultures and traditions How polarization clouds our ability to see God in one another Why kindness, presence, and even a simple smile can be sacred acts The radical Gospel claim that everyone is equal before God Continue the conversation with these reflection questions: Have you ever encountered God through a conversation you were avoiding or a person you had written off? How has an unexpected relationship changed your understanding of love, grace, or truth? Where do you see life and light breaking through in places the world has written off? 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.

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 by Shawn Young, Organizer and Co-Founder, of ALL OF US, and a speech by Ramesses Torres, Youth Organizer for 'ALL OF US', giving his views on what reclaiming MLK means to youths.

What does it mean to say that “In the beginning was the Word” … and why does it still matter? That's what's being asked in this episode of Perspectives FUMCSD Pastors Podcast. In this first conversation of a five-part series on the Gospel of John, Revs. Trudy and Hannah explore John 1:1 and the theme “The Eternal Now – God Beyond Time.” Together, they unpack John’s poetic and often confusing language to discover a radical idea at the heart of the Gospel: Eternity doesn’t pull us out of the world; God brings eternity into it. Drawing from Jewish wisdom traditions, Greek philosophy, and early Christian theology, this progressive Christian Bible study from First United Methodist Church of San Diego invites listeners to see the Gospel of John not as rigid dogma, but as a story of surprise, disruption, and divine presence in unexpected places. You’ll hear reflections on: What “the Word” (Logos) meant across Jewish, Greek, and early Christian cultures Why John begins with creation instead of Jesus’ birth Eternity as a present reality … not just a future promise Rethinking Jesus’ “I Am” statements beyond exclusion and certainty God’s ongoing work of creation within and around our life – even in chaos, doubt, and struggle Continue the conversation with these reflection questions: What does eternity mean to you? How does eternity change your understanding of today, tomorrow or the future? How do you understand Jesus as being the Word of God, and what does it has to do with us? Join us online through Patreon, in person at our weekly Convergence Discussion Group, or by sharing this conversation with someone you trust. Episode Timestamps 00:00 Introduction - Why People Love (and Misunderstand) the Gospel of John 01:14 “In the Beginning Was the Word” (Reading John 1:1) 03:27 What “The Word” Meant in Jewish, Greek, and Early Christian Thought 07:49 Why John Feels Exclusionary (and Why It Might Not Be) 10:09 Eternity Comes to Us, Not the Other Way Around 14:23 The Unexpected Divine in Everyone 20:52 God Creates Out of Chaos (Then and Now) 22:41 Closing & Reflection Questions

Rev. Dr. Harden Hopper preaches on Deuteronomy 10:17-22 as it relates to this being our Year of Invitation. Welcome others, and don't be a stranger.First United Methodist Church of MariettaGiving link: https://onrealm.org/mariettafumc/-/form/give/nowChurch website: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.mariettafumc.org/

This is the January 18th sermon from the First United Methodist Church in Decatur, Texas. This sermon is taken from Luke 14:25-35.

28 Arkansas counties now under burn bans; 911 funding shortfall issue to be addressed by committee; UACCM reports nearly 40% increase in enrollment; Russellville couple facing child abuse charges; warrant issued following boating accident last year; United Way offers free tax preparation services; we visit with Rev. Bill Sardin of the First United Methodist Church in Morrilton.

Reclaim MLK Day 2026, hosted by All of Us Untitled and Free, is taking place on Monday, January 19 from 10am-2pm at the First United Methodist Church in Schenectady. To learn about the event Vinny DamaPoleto and Caelan McPherson sat down with Jamaica Miles of All of Us. more info can be found at actionnetwork.org/events

What does baptism really mean—and why was Jesus baptized at all? That’s what Revs. Trudy and Brittany tackle in this episode of Perspectivs FUMCSD Pastors Podcast. The two female pastors of First United Methodist Church of San Diego explore Jesus’ baptism in Matthew 3:13–17 through a progressive Christian lens. Together, they reflect on baptism as both a risk we take when we step toward God and a commitment we live out as we step back into the world. This thoughtful conversation explores the dynamic relationship between Jesus and John the Baptist, the symbolism of the Jordan River, and why Jesus’ baptism wasn’t about sin but about solidarity, humility, and embarking on a new chapter. The pastors also unpack why the baptism ritual still matters today, especially in progressive faith communities. Whether you identify as Christian, spiritual-but-not-religious, or are simply curious about faith beyond dogma, this episode invites you to reimagine baptism as a reminder that you are already loved and still being called forward. Episode topics include: Why Jesus insisted on being baptized Repentance vs. transformation Water, movement, and new life Is baptism required for salvation? Communal ritual and remembering our baptism today Continue the conversation with friends and family, at our in-person Convergence group, or online at our Patreon channel with these suggested reflection and discussion questions: What do you believe is the connection between sin and new life? What do we gain, and what do we lose, in the belief that Jesus was sinless? Why do you think Jesus was baptized by God? Short on time? Use these timestamps to jump to a specific topic: 00:00 What Does Baptism Change? Introducing “Stepping In, Stepping Up 02:40 Jesus and John the Baptist: Cousins, Calling, and Possible Rivalry 05:30 Repentance vs. Transformation: Naming Problems and Living Solutions 08:00 Baptism in Jesus’ Time: Who It Was For and Why the Jordan River Matters 10:40 The Power of Water: Movement, Disorientation, and Renewal 11:45 Why Was Jesus Baptized If He Was Divine? 17:30 What Baptism Means Today: Commitment, Not Cleansing 22:40 Remembering Our Baptism in Community 26:30 Reflection Questions for Today

Today's sermon is about the scripture of Matthew 3:13-17, and the heart of the baptismal covenant.First United Methodist Church of MariettaGiving link: https://onrealm.org/mariettafumc/-/form/give/nowChurch website: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.mariettafumc.org/

This is the January 11th sermon from the First United Methodist Church in Decatur, Texas. This sermon is taken from Luke 14:7-24.

Happy New Year from the clergy women of the Perspectives FUMCSD Pastors Podcast! In this special 10-minute mini episode, Revs. Trudy, Hannah, and Brittany of First United Methodist Church of San Diego reflect on the past year of Perspectives and share what makes this progressive Christian podcast meaningful to them. They also look ahead to 2026, offering their hopes and dreams for the podcast as it enters its third year, including deeper conversations with Scripture, engagement with hard and overlooked texts, and expanding dialogue with voices from other faith traditions. Bonus Invitation: Listeners are invited to join us for an in-person celebration of Perspectives on January 25, 2026, at First United Methodist Church of San Diego. We’ll share food, community, and a few behind-the-scenes bloopers. Learn more at: https://www.fumcsd.org/gathering. To listen to more episodes and connect with the Perspectives community, visit us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/fumcsd. Perspectives FUMCSD Pastors Podcast is a progressive Christian podcast where women pastors explore Scripture, theology, faith, and life in an honest, thoughtful, and welcoming way.

This is the January 4th sermon from the First United Methodist Church in Decatur, Texas. This sermon is taken from Luke 14:1-6.

What does it mean to sit with ancient Christmas songs in a complex, imperfect world? In this special episode of Perspectives FUMCSD Pastors Podcast, all three clergywomen – Revs. Trudy, Hannah, and Brittany – gather in the studio to reflect on the Advent season and their four-part series, Our Advent Mix Tape. Together, the pastors of First United Methodist Church of San Diego explore how Christmas music and ancient songs of Scripture can hold both darkness and hope – and how the season invites us into deeper ways of loving the world. The conversation invites listeners into deeper, more honest Christmas reflections on: Surprises that emerge while exploring Christmas songs Favorite Christmas songs and the spiritual gifts music offers Naming both the struggle and beauty of the season Living out light, hope, peace, joy, and love beyond Christmas A special Christmas gift: The pastors have curated a Spotify playlist, Our Advent Mix Tape. Listen here: fumcsd.org/mixtape. We also invite you to connect with our podcast community on Patreon, where you can chat with other listeners and go deeper in your reflections.

This is the December 28th sermon from the First United Methodist Church in Decatur, Texas. This sermon is taken from Matthew 2:13-15, 19-22.

This is the December 24th Christmas Eve sermon from the First United Methodist Church in Decatur, Texas. This sermon is taken from John 1:14.

What do we sing when the world feels uncertain? In the final track of Our Advent Mixtape, we turn to Zechariah’s Advent song – the Benedictus (Luke 1:68–79) – and listen for the hope and joy that can still be found in seasons of darkness. In this episode of Perspectives FUMCSD Pastors Podcast, Rev. Trudy and Rev. Hannah explore that very question. It's a digital Bible conversation led by the female pastors of the First United Methodist Church of San Diego. The two pastors reflect on the power of sacred songs to carry faith through seasons of fear, exile, and oppression, and how these songs can bridge old and new faiths, deepen spiritual imaginations, and help God break through the darkness in our lives today. As Advent invites us to wait, listen, and sing anew, this conversation asks: What might salvation look like in our daily lives? Where do we see God’s light breaking through now? And how do we pass on hope and joy—to our children, our communities, and our world? Continue the Conversation & Reflection There is so much to explore with this rich song. We encourage you to continue the conversation with friends and family, our online Patreon community, or our in-person Convergence discussion group. Here are some reflection questions for you to explore: What does salvation look like in your daily practices? Where do we see God’s dawn breaking right now? What is faith for you? Join us next week for a special Christmas message! Timestamps 00:00 Introducing Zechariah’s Song 02:20 Reading of Luke 1:68-79 – The Benedictus 03:40 Bridging of Two Traditions – Jewish Hope & Early Christianity 06:26 Silence, Listening & Being Pregnant with Hope 11:04 Songs of Faith in Fearful Times 19:18 Passing on Hope: Parenting, Faith, and Peace 22:27 Closing and Reflection Questions

Rev. Blair Tolbert final sermon at Marietta FUMC is about Luke 1:45-55 and God's love, and features a Christmas story from her childhood.First United Methodist Church of MariettaGiving link: https://onrealm.org/mariettafumc/-/form/give/nowChurch website: ⁠https://www.mariettafumc.org/

This is the December 21st sermon from the First United Methodist Church in Decatur, Texas. This sermon is taken from John 1:10-13.

From the archives- a 2007 conversation with choral legend Weston Noble talking about Handel's Messiah. This interview took place just before the third annual Sing Along Messiah at First United Methodist Church in Kenosha. Also participating in the conversation was Carthage graduate Trevor Parker, who was the tenor soloist for that particular performance. (Recently, the 20th anniversary Messiah Sing Along took place at First United Methodist Church.)

Arrest made in Atkins fatal shooting; Conway County leading region in sales tax growth; Mayor honored with 'Kindness Award' from hospice organization; first confirmed flu death recorded in Arkansas; CHI-St. Vincent to hold blood drive in Morrilton; Cox named vice-chair of ATU board; Wonderview to host Nemo Vista in basketball tonight; we visit with Rev. Bill Sardin, pastor of the First United Methodist Church in Morrilton.

Sunday, December 14, 2025, Annual Lessons and Carols Service, led by Dr. Nicole Marane and the First United Methodist Church of Marietta Music MinistryFirst United Methodist Church of MariettaGiving link: https://onrealm.org/mariettafumc/-/form/give/nowChurch website: ⁠https://www.mariettafumc.org/

Feeling the weight of uncertainty, turmoil, or transition this Advent season? You’re not alone—and neither was Mary. As she moved toward the birth of Jesus, facing risk and social stigma, she still found the courage to sing the very first Christmas carol: Mary’s Magnificat. In this week’s conversation, Rev. Hannah and Rev. Brittany from First United Methodist Church of San Diego explore Mary’s bold, justice-filled song that’s sometimes described as a female punk rock Christmas anthem. Found in Luke 1:46–55, the Magnificat isn’t sentimental or soft; it’s a prophetic cry that challenges power, confronts injustice, and lifts up the marginalized. Whether you identify as Christian, spiritual-but-not-religious, skeptical, or simply curious, this episode invites you to reimagine Mary not as a quiet figure in a nativity scene but as a courageous young woman leading an uprising of love. It’s the third track of Our Advent Mix Tape, the female pastors’ exploration of lesser-known songs of Christmas – and the powerful gifts they deliver. This week’s gift: Love. Join us to explore: Why cultivating a trusted community matters Mary’s journey of questions, accepting, assuring, and praising The danger Mary faced as an unwed, pregnant teen in the ancient world How the Magnificat flips the status quo and proclaims radical, prophetic hope There is so much to explore with this rich song. We encourage you to continue the conversation with friends and family, our online Patreon community, or our in-person Convergence discussion group. Here are some reflection questions for you to explore: If Mary's song were sung today, what specific injustices, hopes, and transformations would she name? What song is God inviting you to sing even if your voice trembles? How does Mary's love for her child expand into a vision for a world turned upside down? Why does true justice-seeking love often feel disruptive rather than comforting? How can we practice love today in ways that are tangible and lifegiving and not just symbolic? Join us next week for the final track in this mix tape! And be sure to get the first two tracks: Perspectives FUMCSD Pastors Podcast, Season 3 Episode 13 & 14.

Episode Notes This week's special guest brings over three decades of ministry excellence to the table...making him beyond worthy of a "Preacher Feature"!! He is Pastor Jim Wofford, who served as Senior Pastor at Henderson's First United Methodist Church from 2012 to 2023. Jim has also skillfully ministered to congregations in Hardin County, Louisville, and Fort Thomas...and, he's currently Lead Pastor/Co-Planter with Arise Church of Northern Kentucky. Tune in as he describes the discovery of his calling to preach, the steps he took to become a minister, and many notable highlights of his impressive pastoral career. He also explains the Arise Church concept, and his quest to establish house churches in Northern Kentucky, before offering advice to youngsters who fill called to enter ministry. For additional information about Arise Church of Northern Kentucky, and how you can become involved, please email Pastor Jim at arisenky@gmail.com. A website is still in the works...but for now, you can visit the web page of Arise Church Lexington, led by Jim's son Austin Wofford, by simply clicking here: https://www.arisechurches.com/. Find out more at https://blabbin-in-the-bluegrassblabbi.pinecast.co

How do we achieve hope and salvation when we’re surrounded by darkness? That’s what Revs. Trudy and Hannah ask as they enter week two of Our Advent Mix Tape. For inspiration and wisdom, they turn to Isaiah’s prophetic song, which sings praises of thanksgiving for salvation during a time when the Israelites are exiled. Despite their dark circumstances, Isaiah’s song invites the Israelite to image when lightness could be – a way to inspire hope in others to take radical moves to bring about change. The song, found in Isaiah 12:1-6, also highlights individual as well as communal praise and thanksgiving, speaking to the need for both personal and community salvation, a core component of Methodist theology: “There is no personal holiness without social holiness” – a phrase popularized by John Wesley. Through the course of the digital Bible study conversation, the female pastors of the First United Methodist Church of San Diego look closely at Isaiah’s metaphor of the wells of salvation, and ultimately ask: What does salvation look like today? What does Isaiah’s song mean to us in 2025? Is there a universality to salvation that’s available for all cultures and faith traditions? We invite you to continue the pastors’ conversation as you journey through Advent. Join our in-person Convergence group, visit our Patreon Channel, or gather friends and family to discuss these reflection questions: What is salvation for you? How is your salvation related to the salvation of the community? How do you participate in salvation? Want to hear the rest of Our Advent Mixtape? Join us for all four episodes (Season 3, Episodes 13-16) for reflections on the Advent and Christmas promises of peace, hope, joy, and love. New episodes drop Sunday mornings.

Fear is not the absence of faith; it's merely the human condition. Faith is trust through fear.First United Methodist Church of MariettaGiving link: https://onrealm.org/mariettafumc/-/form/give/nowChurch website: https://www.mariettafumc.org/

Advent—the time in between—is here. But many of us struggle to feel “Christmas-y” when life isn’t where we hoped it would be. If peace feels out of tune for you right now, this episode is for you. Join Rev. Trudy and Rev. Brittany – two of the three female pastors of First United Methodist Church of San Diego – as they discuss their Advent Mixtape, exploring how ancient and modern songs can ground us in peace in a world that never stops moving. While most Christmas songs feel light, airy, and escapist – giving the false perception that peace is only achievable in stillness and calm, David’s Psalmody, Psalm 96 – one of the “lesser-known songs of Christmas” – provides a more honest and hopeful vision of peace. In this progressive digital Bible-study conversation, explore: The meaning of Advent as a season of the in-between What “salvation” means in the Hebrew Bible and Psalms How nature participates in healing, peace, and salvation The difference between societal peace and inward peace Practices and touchstones to stay centered amid holiday chaos How music helps reset our anxiety and restore calm We invite you to keep the conversation going as you journey through Advent. Join our in-person Convergence group, visit our Patreon Channel, or gather friends and family to discuss these reflection questions: What role does music play in your wellbeing? What is the “in-between” of here and not yet that you are in right now? What role does nature play in your understanding of being made whole? Want to hear the rest of Our Advent Mixtape? Join us for Season 3, Episodes 14-16, for reflections on hope, joy, and love. New episodes drop Sunday mornings. In today’s episode, we share a selection from Psalm 96 (NRSV), and, as a bonus treat, the full psalm from The Message translation below. As you read it, consider: What tune do you think would fit this modern translation of the ancient song? Psalms 96 1-2a Sing God a brand-new song! Earth and everyone in it, sing! Sing to God—worship God! 2b-3 Shout the news of his victory from sea to sea, Take the news of his glory to the lost, News of his wonders to one and all! 4-5a For God is great, and worth a thousand Hallelujahs. His furious beauty puts the other gods to shame; Pagan gods are mere tatters and rags. 5b-6 God made the heavens— Royal splendor radiates from him, A powerful beauty sets him apart. 7Bravo, God, Bravo! Everyone join in the great shout: Encore! In awe before the beauty, in awe before the might. 8-9Bring gifts and celebrate, Bow before the beauty of God, Then to your knees—everyone worship! 10Get out the message—God Rules! He put the world on a firm foundation; He treats everyone fair and square. 11Let’s hear it from Sky, With Earth joining in, And a huge round of applause from Sea. 12Let Wilderness turn cartwheels, Animals, come dance, Put every tree of the forest in the choir— 13An extravaganza before God as he comes, As he comes to set everything right on earth, Set everything right, treat everyone fair. Scripture taken from The Message, copyright © 1993, 2002, 2018 by Eugene H. Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress. All rights reserved. Represented by Tyndale House Publishers, Inc.

The Coffee Club from Monday November 24th, 2025.  Guests include Hanna Kroger of Three Seed Flower Co., Nader of Kingpins and Elida Aceves a volunteer with First United Methodist Church of Fargo (Toy Drive).

In this episode of Perspectives FUMCSD Pastors Podcast, we’re asking: What is it that we do when things seem so horrific? What do we think? What do we want? What is our hope in situations like that? We'll see what Isaiah has to say about it. Rev. Trudy and Rev. Hannah – two of the female pastors of First United Methodist Church of San Diego – use a progressive theological lens to visit the prophet Isaiah’s radical vision of God’s new world, delivered in Isaiah 65:17-25. They’re words delivered to ancient people who have been beaten down and lost all hope, and the pastors are surprised by how relevant it all still is. If you’re at a point in your life when you want to burn everything down and start over again, this episode is for you. If you’d like to dive deeper into the themes of this digital Bible Study, we invite you to reflect on these questions: What words of comfort do you seek or use when everything is going wrong? How do you understand the way that things will get better? Do you make use of a holy pause to discern in difficult times? And if you’d like to discuss the topic with others, you’re invited to join one of our discussion groups: Convergence: In-Person, Sundays at 12 PM Patreon: Our online community offering chat and additional resources Our Patreon community is open to all — wherever you are on your spiritual journey. It’s free to join and connect over weekly questions, with optional paid tiers for bonus content and deeper engagement.

On this episode of Same Cast Different Day Podcast. Martel sat down with the author of Don't Flush Dakarai Larriett. Dakarai Larriett, an Alabama native and the son of a U.S. Army veteran and a public school teacher, is a thriving entrepreneur and committed community volunteer. His candidacy for the U.S. Senate is driven by the injustice he faced from a false arrest in 2024. Growing up influenced by his father's military service, Dakarai moved between several states and even spent time in Germany. He excelled academically, earning a full scholarship to the University of Alabama, where his dedication to public service deepened during his junior year as an exchange student at Howard University. Dakarai has built a successful career as a corporate leader while also managing a pet-care business he launched from his garage. Over the past 20 years, he has served in leadership roles on multiple nonprofit boards, gaining a reputation for his servant leadership upon returning to Birmingham in 2021. Actively involved in various volunteer initiatives, he leads an HOA board in downtown Birmingham that represents local families and businesses, showcasing his passion for Alabama's culture and community. In his leisure time, Dakarai enjoys visiting the shooting range and regularly attends First United Methodist Church.Dakarai Socials Website www.dakarailarriett.comInstagram https://www.instagram.com/dakarailarriettforsenate/Facebook https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61574763727908Tiktok https://www.tiktok.com/@dakarai.larriettHere is a link to take look at our merch store and more.https://direct.me/samecastdifferentdaypodcastSocials Facebookhttps://www.facebook.com/samecastdifferentdaypodcast/Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/scddpodcast/#Youtubehttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZA-Ib8DmQwG4o9wAFvpBDw

Escaped inmate believed to be in Faulkner County; Petit Jean Mountain Community Association hopes to see balance in new recreational opportunities, call for improvements to highway; 1940s-era mural to be hung at Morrilton City Hall; downtown merchants to hold Holiday Open House this Sunday; MHS jazz band members earn Region honors; Morrilton, Hot Springs playoff football game promises battle of high-powered offenses; area high school teams have games tonight; Pinion has another 20-point game; we visit with Rev. Bill Sardin of the First United Methodist Church and Fr. Stephen Hart of Sacred Heart Catholic Church about tonight's Community Thanksgiving Service.

Progressive Christian Podcast on Faith, Justice & Reconciliation — Weekly Scripture: Micah 6:8 — “Do justice, love mercy, and walk humbly with God.” Join Rev. Brittany and special guest Leo Djamson for an inspiring and deeply honest conversation about faith, racial justice, and cultural understanding through the lens of First United Methodist Church of San Diego’s Sankofa Pilgrimage to Ghana – exploring the lasting effects of the transatlantic slave trade and how it’s shaped the beautifully diverse and resilient people of Ghana. It’s an impactful journey of discovery for all involved regardless of heritage, upbringing, personal experiences, and political beliefs. This pilgrimage is one of the ways that the church lives out Micah’s call to act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with God. It’s all about embracing racial justice and loving kindly as we uncover and unpack some of the history of our ancestors that influence our implicit biases and contribute to today’s continuing racial tensions. Leo is a member of church who grew up in Ghana. Listen in as he shares about his childhood, how Ghana shaped his life, and the cultural similarities and differences than the US. They also discuss the misconceptions the US has about west Africa and how Ghana honors its history and participation in the transatlantic slave trade. This conversation models an effective, healthy way to connect with others at a deeper, more meaningful level to expand our awareness and appreciation of other cultures – finding shared experiences as well as the mosaic of beautiful differences that shape the way we interact with and understand the world and our communities. We invite you to continue this conversation model! Join our in-person Convergence group or our online community at patreon.com/fumcsd. Our groups are open to all — wherever you are on your spiritual journey. As a progressive church, we provide a safe space to dig deeper into your faith and beliefs. About the Sankofa Pilgrimage: The Sankofa Pilgrimage is more than a trip. It is a sacred journey of study, travel, and reflection, rooted in the West African Adinkra symbol Sankofa, which means “It is not foolish to go back and get that which you have forgotten.” Together, pilgrims remember the humanity of all people, confront painful truths about the church’s complicity in racism, and explore how God is calling us to be builders of justice and reconciliation today. The Sankofa Pilgrimage welcomes people of all faith backgrounds. Teens 14+ may attend with a trusted adult. Classroom learning is free and open to everyone, even for those not traveling.

Send us a textIn this episode, Rev. Chad Bowen joins us to unpack a big question from one of our church kids: “How are we made in God's image when we can't see God?” Together, we explore what it means to “image” God in the world—not by what we look like, but by how we live. From creativity and innovation to stewardship and community, we discover the many ways God's character is reflected through us as we care, create, and connect with one another.ABOUT CHAD: Rev. Chad Bowen serves as pastor of First United Methodist Church in West Point, Mississippi, and is a graduate of Millsaps College and Duke Divinity School. He and his wife Katie live in West Point with their two young children.Thanks for listening to the Embodied Holiness Podcast. We invite you to join the community on Facebook and Instagram @embodiedholiness. Embodied Holiness is a ministry of Parkway Heights United Methodist Church in Hattiesburg, MS. If you're in the Hattiesburg area and are looking for a church home, we'd love to meet you and welcome you to the family. You can find out more about Parkway Heights at our website.