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!” Sunday October 2nd is the celebration of “World Communion”, a day which promotes Christian unity and ecumenical cooperation throughout the world. 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 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 redeeming 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. It invites and it unites and it is truly something—we just can’t seem to get enough of! Join Pastor Fred Mast as he continues his communion Sunday series of messages titled, “This 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 of banquets. 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 and spirit filled! We laugh, we cry, we celebrate—and most of all we welcome all as family. SUMC fellowship time happens immediately following worship and 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! All are invited!—Friday October 7th at 6 pm for a FREE Community Concert featuring the band “Crosby Lane.” Crosby Lane is comprised of former Country music artist, Tonja Rose; multi-Dove Award writer/arranger and long-time worship leader, John Lemonis; and his wife, multi-instrumentalist, Michaela Lemonis. The trio shares a mutual passion for the ministry side of hymns. See more at: http://www.crosbylane.com. Join us for Hope Café’ a grief support group which meets on Tuesday’s 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 Rev. Suzie Jacobsen of Hospice of the Pines. Contact the church office for more information. 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.
