Thought firecrackers??

Dear Minooka UMC Found Family,

In the United Methodist tradition, July 1st is the beginning of clergy appointments. Meaning, this week marks the official start of year three of our pastor and parish relationship! I’m thrilled and honored to continue to be your pastor. 

That’s just the first of a few items on my mind this week. Given that this is Independence Day weekend, perhaps consider these my thought firecrackers?? (Minus that whole in-danger-of-losing-digits thing.) 

Time Outside
Nothing says summer like time spent in the outdoors. Wasn’t last week’s Ecumenical Outdoor Worship so much fun!? Thanks to all who braved the heat to participate (or persevered through less-than-ideal live-streaming conditions). If you missed it, check out this wonderful highlight reel (or our Minooka UMC Facebook page for even more photos). We will definitely collaborate like that again!

Halftime Report
Our mission is Forming disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world, including ourselves. To that end, we are committed to discipleship practices of opening, gathering, praying, serving, giving, and inviting. Now that we are into the second half of 2025, this is a great time to check in on your discipleship commitments for this year. 

One of our gathering goals is to have everyone participate in at least one small group. How are you doing with that? How about inviting people to worship experiences, small group opportunities, or events? As a congregation we had commitments to invite 75 people. Is it time for you to invite some family, friends, and/or neighbors? I know this year has been volatile and scary economically, so how are you doing with your commitment to giving? You’ll receive your second quarter financial statement soon. 

Pray and work for peace in the midst of violence 
Every time we turn on the news we are confronted with humanity’s propensity for violence—especially violence against one another. From devastating wars in Ukraine, Gaza, and Iran; to political assassinations in Minnesota; to extremely cruel cuts to Medicaid and SNAP that will harm already vulnerable people; violence seems to reign. We are called to a better Way. Let us never lose our resolve to be the peacemakers Jesus calls us to be: Not doormats; never doormats! Rather, those who get in good trouble for the cause of justice for our neighbors. 

Love boldly, Serve joyfully, and Lead courageously
The UMC Council of Bishops recently announced a new vision statement for our denomination. That Trinitarian formulation of love boldly, serve joyfully, and lead courageously was featured prominently at our Annual Conference earlier this month. You’ll hear more about that in a couple weeks when Chris Vause and I share our Annual Conference report and reflections. We’ll do that as an entry in the new sermon series we’re calling, #YBUMC?

#YBUMC?
Uh, what?? Yep! In worship this Sunday, July 6th, we begin a brand new sermon series: #YBUMC? (Sound it out…get it? C’mon; it’s a summer holiday weekend; let’s have some fun!)

We’re back in the Gospel According to Luke this week reading of disciples sent out with the simple yet profound message, “The Kingdom of God has come near to you.” To whom are the disciples sent? What actions does Jesus instruct the disciples to take preceding that message? How does this gospel story compare to the origin story of the people who would come to be called United Methodists? Why would anyone still choose to be United Methodist in this day and age? We’ll explore those questions and more.

Participate in our worship experiences Sundays at 9:30 a.m. either in person at 1210 S. Ridge Road in Minooka or via livestream on our Facebook page or our website. Whether in person or online, all are welcome.

Plotting Goodness,
Pastor Dave