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 »
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 »
Just Another Day in Paradise
I continue to reflect on my recent trip to Haiti. The mission team from Central spent two weeks at the Soaring Unlimited Clinic outside of Cap Haitian. We worked on the building and grounds and with the local school and the children in the “neighborhood.” We also laid out the new Birthing Center on the… Read More »
New Year
Faithful Friends, What an awesome holiday season we shared together here at Central. The worship and music, activities and events were filled with the joy of Christmas. On Christmas Eve over 2200 people attended services, and our Christmas Open House was packed with hundreds of friends and neighbors. As we enter the New Year, I’m… Read More »
A Winning Team
For Michigan State Spartans fans like me, this has been a disappointing football season. My usually- winning Spartans aren’t playing well or winning. On the other hand, if you’re a Wolverine fan, you’ve got reason to gloat this fall! One hallmark of successful teams of any kind is “doing the basics well” and “excelling in… Read More »
Fall is a Time to Renew
Fall is a Time To Renew What are you passionate about? We’re all passionate about something. We might have a passion for gardening, for sports or even eating (not to be confused with cook- ing which isn’t always as much fun). Amidst all our passions, there are also those es- sential passions that shape us… Read More »
