Break one and the same bread, which is the medicine of immortality, the antidote which prevents us from dying, and a cleansing remedy driving away evil so that we should live in God through Jesus Christ. Ignatius, A.D. 110 in his letter to the Ephesians
The story is told of a little girl whose parents had taken her forward to receive Holy Communion. After receiving the small piece of bread she was given to dip in the cup, the child cried out loudly, “I want more! I want more!”
Holy Communion is a sacrament that awakens a holy memory of what Jesus Christ has done for us and for the whole world. It fixes our mind on the fact of our need for forgiveness and God’s grace. It communicates God’s love for each soul. And mysteriously, through the offering and receiving of the bread and the cup, the Holy Spirit moves in our midst to bring home to us, both personally and in community, the effects of the great work of Christ in our behalf.
This sacrament is a celebration of God’s redeeming love and empowering grace. It means our grateful acceptance of God’s gift of forgiveness and new life. It brings a means of renewed commitment and resolve. And it is something; we just can’t seem to get enough of!
Join Pastor Fred Mast as he brings a message titled, “A Holy Mystery” looking at one of the great tenants of our faith. Come and be filled with God’s holy word and join in on this most holy banquet. All are welcomed at Christ’s Holy Table.
Sunday mornings we enter the spirit of worship at 9:30 a.m. featuring meaningful times of prayer, joyous music, and life messages that will help move you closer in your relationship with Christ. Our worship is upbeat and lively, we laugh, we cry, and most of all we welcome all as family.
And our fellowship time immediately following worship features the best coffee, sweet treats, and friendship you will find anywhere. Plan to make a morning of it; because once you’re here you won’t want to leave—guaranteed!
You are invited to our monthly Family Movie Night on Friday night September 9th beginning at 6:00p.m. Our featured film this month is “God’s Not Dead” the story of a college student who is challenged by his philosophy professor to dispute and prove the existence of God. There will be lots of great food as always so come hungry. This is a FREE event open to the entire community, so invite your friends and join in the fun. Fellowship, food and fun for all ages.
On Saturday morning, September 10th, you are invited to join us for a delicious SUMC Men’s Breakfast at 8:00a.m. at the Olde Sedona Restaurant in West Sedona. Our featured guest speaker will be Dale Morgan with Hospice Compassus. All the men of our Verde Valley Communities are welcomed and encouraged to attend.
Join us for Hope Café’ a new grief support group beginning Tuesday September 13th at 10a.m. in the SUMC music room. This support group meets weekly for six weeks featuring relevant topics to help you face challenges and rebuild your life. This program is open to all interested parties and is free of charge. It is presented by Hospice of the Pines. Space is limited so please contact the church office to reserve your spot.
Announcing a new book study, in which you will experience the breadth and depth of the world religions beginning Wednesday September 7th at 3 p.m. This course is based on the book—“The Great Courses: Cultural Literacy for Religions”. Religion is a vibrant, living part of your world today, and with this course, you’ll take the first steps toward greater cultural understanding—and greater self-understanding. Sign up today!
Like us on Facebook and visit our website at www.sedonaumc.org. Are you in need of prayer or know someone who is? Prayer requests are welcomed at sumcprayers@gmail.com.
