| Rise with Resurrection MCC Dear RMCC Family: As we reflect on the past month, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to all our guest preachers for the month of March. Your wisdom, insight, and dedication have enriched our Lenten journey in profound ways. We are also deeply thankful for our Worship Arts Department, whose music has lifted our spirits and deepened our worship experience throughout this sacred season. As we enter the sacred season of Lent, we embrace a theme of renewal, preparation, and trust: A Journey to Joy: A Path of Hope and Transformation. Lent is an invitation to reflect on our faith, deepen our relationship with God, and seek transformation in our lives and communities. Just as Jesus faced the wilderness with unwavering hope, we are called to place our trust in God, even in times of uncertainty and challenge. Throughout this season, we are reminded of God’s steadfast faithfulness. His covenant with Abraham assures us of His unchanging love, guiding us through every challenge we encounter. The journey of Lent is not solely one sacrifice; it is also a time of renewal and restoration. It is a sacred space to release burdens, embrace divine grace, and move forward with a renewed sense of purpose. Jesus calls us to accept our cross—not as a weight to bear alone, but as a sign of our commitment and devotion. Under God’s shelter, we find strength, much like a tree flourishing when deeply rooted and nurtured. As new creations in Christ, we are called to be ambassadors of hope and reconciliation, bringing light and love to a world in need. The scriptures chosen for this season reflect these themes: 2 Corinthians 5:16-21 – We are made new in Christ and entrusted with the ministry of reconciliation. Luke 15:1-3, 11b-32 – The parable of the prodigal son illustrates God’s boundless mercy and grace. Joshua 5:9-12 – A testimony of God’s faithfulness as the Israelites transition into a new season of promise. Psalm 32 – A song of joy and forgiveness, celebrating the freedom found in God’s love. Incorporating Our Mission, Vision, and Core Values During Lent At Resurrection MCC, our mission is to demonstrate God’s unconditional love to all people through Christ-like action. Our vision is to boldly experience, engage, and embody our faith, transforming ourselves and the world into the full expression of Christ’s inclusive love. Our core values serve as guiding principles on this Lenten journey: Inclusion: Love is our greatest moral value. As a community, we are committed to welcoming all people as they are and where they are, ensuring that everyone has a place at God’s table. Community: We strive to create a safe and open space for worship, learning, and spiritual growth. Supporting one another in faith strengthens our ability to conduct God’s work in the world. Spiritual Transformation: We believe in the power of God’s presence to transform lives. Through Christ’s life and ministry, we are invited into a deeper experience of faith that leads to renewal and liberation. Justice: Our faith compels us to advocate for human rights, stand with the marginalized, and uplift all people. As followers of Christ, we are called to be agents of justice and healing. During Lent, we are encouraged to live out these values in tangible ways. Inclusion calls us to extend radical hospitality, ensuring that all feel welcomed and loved. Community reminds us to walk alongside one another, offering support and encouragement. Spiritual transformation invites us into deeper reflection, seeking God’s presence in prayer and service. Justice moves us beyond words into action, responding to the needs of the world with compassion and boldness. Moving Forward Together As we journey through Lent and beyond, we are invited to bring transformation into the life of our church and our personal faith. How can we individually and collectively renew our spirits, deepen our relationships, and step into God’s future with courage and faith? Through worship, service, and love, we strengthen our community and share the message of reconciliation with all. Together, we build a faith community rooted in compassion, inclusivity, and grace. Let us encourage one another, extending support as we grow together. By actively engaging in ministry, outreach, and fellowship, we create a space where everyone is valued, empowered, and inspired to live out their faith. Transitioning into April: Risen – Living in Resurrection Power As we transition from Lent into the Easter season, we embrace a new sermon series: Risen: Living in Resurrection Power. This shift reminds us that after a season of reflection and waiting comes renewal and transformation. Resurrection is not just a historical event; it is a present reality that empowers us to live with faith, joy, and purpose. Breaking Open (Palm Sunday) – Philippians 3:4b-14 As Jesus enters Jerusalem, we are called to examine our hearts, breaking open to God’s grace and preparing for the journey ahead. In the Waiting – Isaiah 52:13-53:12, John 19:16-30 Before resurrection comes waiting and uncertainty. Jesus’ suffering and death challenge us to trust God in times of darkness. This is a sacred time to acknowledge both pain and hope, creating space for lament while holding onto trust. Risen for Joy (Easter Sunday) – Acts 10:34-43 The resurrection is a triumphant declaration of God’s power over death, bringing hope and renewal to all. Jesus calls us by name into a life of purpose and joy. As we step into the season of resurrection, let us carry the lessons of Lent into this new chapter. May we boldly embrace the joy and renewal found in Christ’s victory, stepping forward with hearts full of hope and transformation. For more about our community, mission, vision, and values, visit Resurrection MCC. |
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| Raymond Turner Vice Moderator RMCC BOD Raymond@ResurrectionMCC.org |