Hyde Park United Methodist

The classic comic book character Batman embodies the spirit of vengeance and retribution. He is deemed a vigilante by the general public, and during the most recent film “The Batman,” declares, “I am vengeance.” In many ways, Batman represents our base instincts to seek revenge on others, which must be tempered by a commitment to love, and to a justice that is forged by peace and forgiveness. 

The early church gained in notoriety and vitality by becoming a community with hospitality and generosity. They welcomed new persons into the fellowship and ultimately, in Acts 15, extended the reach of God’s love to people who would otherwise be excluded. This spirit of expansive welcome is rendered beautifully in the production Come From Away, based on the true story of a small town of Gander, Newfoundland, who welcomed frightened, weary travelers in the immediate aftermath of 9/11.

The film "A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood" demonstrates the healing power of love and forgiveness. The acclaimed Fred Rogers serves as the conduit of that grace, as he interacts with Lloyd Vogel, a reporter who has been struggling with how to forgive his father and be reconciled with his family. Through the course of the film, and because of the kind, thoughtful, enduring wisdom of Mr. Rogers, Lloyd discovers how to experience a new kind of love, and a fuller relationship with others. 

Our Disctrict Superintendent, the Rev. Emily Hotho joins us with a message about Jesus' parable of the sower. What might Jesus' lesson about seeds and good soils have to teach us about our faith and our perspective on the world?

The early church was not defined by the forms and structures that mark today’s modern church. It was marked by mission and purpose: to come together to worship, to sing and pray, to fellowship, and to serve and give to those in need. Each church ought to aspire to live up to, and into, a balance of those four purposes.

Pentecost (Greek for 50th) is the holy day celebrated 50 days after Easter. It is the moment that the Holy Spirit descended on the early disciples and sent them out into the world. It's a message of expansion and inclusion. And it calls us to widen our reach—to be carriers—of love and inclusion to all.

The 12 Steps have helped people overcome hurts, habits, and hang-ups. These steps help us do the work of self-examination that leads to a deeper relationship with God and with others. In many ways it is a form of discipleship where we grow and are changed through practices. 

This week we conclude our series with Steps 10, 11, and 12. How can we abide in Christ by practicing perseverance, integrity, and service?

The 12 Steps have helped people overcome hurts, habits, and hang-ups. These steps help us do the work of self-examination that leads to a deeper relationship with God and with others. In many ways it is a form of discipleship where we grow and are changed through practices. 

This week we explore Steps 8 and 9. How can integrity and restitution lead us toward identifying and forgiving those we've harmed?

The 12 Steps have helped people overcome hurts, habits, and hang-ups. These steps help us do the work of self-examination that leads to a deeper relationship with God and with others. In many ways it is a form of discipleship where we grow and are changed through practices. 

This week we explore Steps 6 and 7. How can willingness and humility help us begin breaking old patterns?

The 12 Steps have helped people overcome hurts, habits, and hang-ups. These steps help us do the work of self-examination that leads to a deeper relationship with God and with others. In many ways it is a form of discipleship where we grow and are changed through practices. 

This week we explore Steps 4 and 5. How can honesty and courage combat our resentments?