It's true that camp experiences are filled with joy and laughter, and much of that is based on a foundation of trust. In fact, trust is at the core of building community, establishing connections, and growing relationships. When we grow the fruits of the spirit (Galatians 5:22-23) we find it easier to center our communities on trust. This Sunday we'll discover how the Holy Spirit shows up at Mingus through intentionally living into fruits and how trust allows faith to develop and campers and staff to transform into the humans God is calling them to be. 

Prayers of the People for Sunday, February 12, 2023 by Rev. Mike Wilkerson.

We live in a world where apps and technology play an increasingly large role in our lives. Many of us keep our smart phones and tablets by our side, rushing to check them every time a new notification beeps. Although apps have plenty of useful applications and can even help us stay connected to others, they can also become a major distraction if we spend too much time fixated on them. We must choose wisely what apps we use and keep a watchful eye over our behavior and attitude towards tech-related activities.  The same applies to spiritual matters; as we strive to lead ‘Christ-like’ lives, it is important to identify which apps - or practices - are most effective at helping us reach that goal. We all need reminders now and again that although it's easy to get caught up in the excitement of modern apps and devices, clinging onto these superficial distractions will not benefit us in the long run. We can use the same discernment with our spiritual disciplines and faith practices as well!

Prayers of the People for February 5, 2023 by Susan Gleason (partial).

Sometimes it’s difficult to understand why people do what they do. Without an understanding of inward motivations, outward actions sometimes just don’t make sense. In the book The Big Short by Michael Lewis, the thought process of investors who predicted the collapse of the housing market in the 2000’s is explained. During the buildup to the financial crisis, big banks thought these investors were foolish for betting against the market, but when the housing bubble burst, those investors reaped huge profits.

In some ways the Christian way of life can also seem foolish to those who aren’t familiar with the teachings of Christ. The emphasis on loving others and offering compassion to people in need when there is no direct reward or benefit may seem foolish to those who are only accustomed to transactional kinds of relationships. Join us this Sunday as we reflect on the ways we are called to serve Christ that may be difficult for some to understand.

Prayers of the People for January 29, 2023 by Gail Roberts.

Special music for January 29, 2023 by the chancel choir.

There are a wide variety of opinions on just about every subject you can think of: politics, economics, art, religion, … Each person approaches these subjects from a different point of view based on their own experiences and perspectives. Sometimes, the result is positive; ideas are refined, and new solutions arise. However, differences in these subjects can also lead to conflict and gridlock.

This week, we will consider an appeal for unity from the Apostle Paul to the church houses in Corinth. Rumors of conflict had reached him while he was traveling, and he encouraged them to be of one mind. Join us this Sunday as we reflect on what it means for the church to be of the same mind and purpose, and how the message of the cross can be foolish to some and representative of the power of God to others.

Prayers of the People for Sunday, January 22, 2023 by Brandon Coz.

Special music for January 22, 2023by the chancel choir.