DSCN2355“Teach a child in the way they should go; even when they are old they will not depart from it.”  Proverbs 22:6

After many years as a faithful apostle, Paul recognized the importance of equipping a successor to carry on the gospel message after his life and ministry were over. In 2 Timothy 4:6-8, Paul believed that his life was nearing its end, stating, “I am already being poured out like a drink offering, and the time has come for my departure. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, and I have kept the faith.” To leave his earthly ministry without establishing a means for its continuation would contradict his overarching message to Timothy, which was to be strong and faithful in the preaching of the Word.  It seems today, like at no other time in history the message, that lessons of the gospels are being lost among so many, especially our young people. What better messenger than a young person himself—Timothy to carry on the important work that Jesus’ own disciples began and was now being carried forward by Paul.   What an awesome responsibility now being heaped upon the shoulders of young Timothy to “keep control of yourself in all circumstances, enduring suffering, to do the work of a preacher of the Good News, performing your duty as a servant of God.”  Join us this week at Sedona UMC as we celebrate the “Children’s Sabbath” and Pastor Fred continues a sermon series “The Power of One” and a sermon titled “Hey, I’m Just a Kid,” looking at the life of young Timothy who is called upon to take on the awesome responsibility of continuing the work and testimony of Jesus Christ.

Sunday morning worship is always a spirit filled time offering moving times of prayer and devotion, joyous music, and life messages designed to help you walk in growing your personal relationship with Christ. Worship is upbeat and lively, we laugh, we cry, and most of all, everyone is welcomed as family. Worship begins at 9:30am—we look forward to seeing you Sunday! Stay for our ever popular “Fellowship Time” of greeting featuring the best coffee, home baked sweet treats and friendship anywhere. There are so many exciting things happening at Sedona UMC. Sunday school is offered for the kids during worship as well as a staffed nursery. We offer Men’s Bible Study on Wednesday mornings at 9 am, Adult classes on Wednesday afternoons at 3PM, and our Women’s Bible Study meets on Thursday mornings at 9:45 am. Look for our Advent Study offering beginning in November. There is something for everyone and our groups would love to welcome you.  You and your entire family are invited to join us on Monday, October 31st from 5pm to 7pm for our Second Annual—“Trunk R Treat.” This is a free event held in our front parking lot with many of our members dressing up and decorating their trunks to provide a safe and family friendly opportunity for kids to Trick-R-Treat. We will have free hot dogs, chips, drinks, and desserts—and lots of candy for all so come and join in this fun event.   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.  Sedona UMC is located at 110 Indian Cliffs Road, off the Back O’Beyond roundabout on Route 179 in Sedona.