Hey there! Have you ever read through the Book of Lamentations in the Bible? Have you ever heard the word lamentation? It is definitely not one that seems to get used all too often, at least where we live. But this book covers part of the history of the Israelites, their feelings about what was going on, and even how they felt about and understood their relationship with God. Today will be the first week of a new sermon series by Pastor Michael called, "The Book of Lamentations" (not very original, we know). Using Scripture from Lamentations 1, NIV, while also possibly tying in some connections to Psalm 92:1-4, 12-15, NIV.
Also, in worship today, we will be singing some songs, lifting prayers, joining together in liturgy, and also celebrating Holy Communion! And do not worry, all of the information you need can be found by visiting https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1oQfvMREhgK5zIuLEcev9enTA6T49baQM?usp=sharing where you can download a PDF version, named with the date of the service it goes along with. From time-to-time there may be additional inserts or content for certain services, so make sure to check out every file with the same date for today's service. And don't forget to keep an eye out on our Facebook for more updates to come!
We would also like to extend our deepest thanks to those who continue to help support our church and ministries through their time, their talents, their prayers, and their tithes. If you are looking for a way to help support the ministry work we do, please consider making a financial gift online at: https://www.faithstreet.com/church/stony-creek-united-methodist-church-ypsilanti-mi/giving. You can also reach out via our Facebook page, church email, or call the church office to learn about other ways you can support the ministries done in our faith community. As you are watching online, if you ever have any questions, or just want to chat, please jump into the chat alongside the video feed on Facebook. There are almost always a few folks already there and happy to talk/chat with you!
One last thing we know this is a LOT of information. We want you, YES YOU, are a beautiful child of God, made in God's image, which means a few critical things. One, you are a beloved sibling with us through Jesus Christ and his sacrifice to save the world from sin. Two, you are loved unconditionally by God and there is nothing you can ever do to change that or stop it. Three, you will always be welcome at Stony Creek United Methodist Church (in-person or online). You do not have to be a United Methodist, a member of any other denomination, baptized, or ever a Christian. We love you whether you are rich or poor, young or old, no matter your social standing, your cognitive or physical abilities, if you have tattoos or colored hair, we will love you just as you are! All we ask is when you are with us to try to show that same love and acceptance to others. We know that people will not always agree on everything, but we believe that we can disagree about certain things and still love one another. We want everyone to feel welcomed and a part of our faith community in whatever ways they are comfortable to do so, but we cannot condone words or actions of hatred, oppression, or injustice towards others because of their sexual orientation, sexual identity, race, ethnicity, or really any other reason. If any of this goes against your current beliefs, we simply ask that you consider finding another place of worship that better aligns with your beliefs, or if you think you can, open yourself and your heart to some conversations that may lead you to change your mind, your beliefs, or your understandings about the world and about God's love.
We pray that you have a wonderful day, that you always feel the love and grace of God in you, around you, and everywhere you go, and we hope that you find Stony Creek United Methodist Church to be a safe, accepting, and open space where you are always welcomed just as you are!
