Dear Friends, Spring has sprung and the church season of Easter is calling up resurrection life everywhere. Central Church was busting with this life on Easter Sunday as over 1100 people attended worship services. The Easter message reminds us that Christ is alive and on the move; empowering his people, the church, to be signs… Read More »
What’s Next for Central Church
Members and Friends of Central United Methodist, I know many of you listened closely as our denomination met in a special General Conference session earlier this week to discuss and decide a way forward for the UMC regarding our ministry to and with sisters and brothers who are gay. Whether you have been attentive or… Read More »
Close to Heart
Friends, Things have been quieter around my house lately. My Debbie has been in New Hampshire the last month-and-a-half caring for her father who is recovering from illness and surgery. Deb and I will be married 35 years this month. As with all couples who have been together that long, we’ve lived and loved through… Read More »
Refocus: The Neighborhood
Thoughts by Pastor Dale I got new glasses the other day. I can see better or more specifically, I can focus better. I imagine I’ll need to do this again in a few years. Even so, I’m grateful for eyes to see God’s wonder around me. Refocusing is a part of life. Every now and… Read More »
A Way Forward
A Way Forward Friends and Family in Christ, While vital expressions of mission are happening here at Central UMC and in the World-Wide United Methodist Church, major changes are coming to our denomination. For decades United Methodists have disagreed regarding the acceptance and inclusion of gay persons in the United Methodist Church. Since 1972 our… Read More »
Praying to Dog
Dear Friends, No the title to this month’s blog is not a misprint. Nor did my dyslexia cause me to switch my “G” and “D.” I did something strange the other day and I can’t tell you how good it felt. I’m the kind of person who prays short prayers throughout the day. But I… Read More »
SOARing to New Heights
Recently Central Church hosted a gathering of leaders to envision new vitality for our congregation. It was a fun and interactive morning of looking at Central’s Strengths, Opportunities and Aspirations. A few of the strengths named by the 50 people in attendance included: Welcoming Inclusive Passionate Sense of Mission Many opportunities to serve Outreaching Dynamic… Read More »
Let Justice Roll
But let justice roll down like waters, and righteousness like an ever-flowing stream.” Amos 5:24 Dear Members of The Body, It’s been a couple weeks now since White Supremacists rallied at Emancipation Park in Charlottesville, VA and clashed with counter protesters, killing one person. Our country is still stinging from the evil and hatred that… Read More »
Preaching Is Not For Sissies
Friends, There’s something I want you to know and respond to and it is this: Preaching is not for sissies. Here’s what I mean. Most preachers work hard on their sermons and there’s no shortage of good material to make sermons relevant and meaningful. Notice I didn’t use the word “memorable.” I’m not so egotistical… Read More »
Easter Doubt and Promises
Easter Doubts and Promises… Continuing the Conversation I missed it! So far the Easter Season has offered us spirit-filled celebrations of resurrection life. Over 1100 people attended the four Easter morning services. Then last Sunday we had nearly 700 in worship to listen and respond to the ongoing message of Easter. But I missed it!… Read More »
