P a n o r a m a 10
PSMC contacts Moderator Brian Fry BrianFry@ pacificsouthwest.org
Conference Minister Dick Davis dickdavis@ pacificsouthwest.org 214-608-6334 Youth Ministry Liaison John Murray JohnMurray@ pacificsouthwest.org Resource Advocate Barbara Ewy abewy@cvip.net
Conference Office 379 N. Campus Ave. Upland, CA 91786 agneschigoji@ pacificsouthwest.org 909-243-5003 Office Hours: 9 -11 a.m. Tuesday & by appointment
Web site: www. pacificsouthwest.org
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Resources for congregations
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n a fast-paced world full of distractions, spiritual practice can help us become more centeredmore in touch with ourselves and others, more in touch with the world around us, more in touch with God. Sacred Pauses: Spiritual Practices for Personal Renewal, by April Yamasaki, is an introduction to this more centered way of life. The author, a Mennonite pastor in British Columbia, begins with her own longing for personal renewal. What would it take to feel renewed every day? Instead of waiting for a vacation to smooth out the tensions of life, instead of waiting until the end of the week to shed our weariness, what if we could take time out every day? Live a renewed life every day? Be refreshed by God every day? Sacred Pauses offers simple ways for readers to do just that. Each chapter explores a different spiritual practice –– from the classic disciplines of Scripture reading and prayer to other creative approaches such as paying attention, making music, and having fun. With plenty of stories from real life and ideas to try, this book is personal and practical. Its flexible format is appropriate for personal use or in a group, every day or any time. The book, $16.99, may be ordered at mennomedia.org. hristians believe that God is C everywhere, and often speak of sensing God’s Spirit. But how can adults help children understand the wonder, power, and essence of God? Breathe It In: God Gives Life, MennoMedia’s 2013 vacation Bible school curriculum, seeks to do just that. “We want this curriculum to guide children to understand that God is the giver of life, and always present with us,” says Mary Ann Weber, MennoMedia managing curriculum editor. “Through Breathe It In they’ll hear Bible stories of breath and wind, explore how God’s own breath was used to create people, and how the wind of the Spirit helped the young church to grow. We hope that through these stories they’ll discover the life-giving breath of God.” MennoMedia produces a new vacation Bible school curriculum each year, each organized around five stories, adaptable to a traditional daily vacation Bible school program or to a 12-session midweek or club plan. Breathe It In sessions draw on Scriptures from Genesis, Ezekiel, Matthew, and Acts. “We present the Bible content in many ways, to draw
Pacific Southwest Mennonite Conference
kids in and help them connect with the themes,” says Weber. “For instance, the Bible stories are always introduced through a dramatic skit, and each worship time includes songs related to the Bible stories. A variety of activities build on the story and theme, both to help kids connect more deeply and to give them a chance to respond to the ideas presented in their own way.” Breathe It In may be ordered in an all-in-one boxed set including everything needed for planning and preparation. All items are also available separately. Find details and order at www.mennomedia.org/vbs. ifty Shades of Grace: Stories of F Inspiration and Promise is a collection of inspiring stories about experiencing God's grace in the midst of everyday life. Each of the fifty stories will uplift readers with profound narratives about life and faith. This book explores what grace looks like in action –– even in a world jaded by violence and unforgiveness –– and how it can triumph over great tragedy with mercy and hope. Order from mennomedia.org for $12.99 (just $9.09 through May 1). he latest issue of On the Way is available at T www.mennoniteusa.org/on-the-way. It focuses on church-to-church Relationships, highlighting how MC USA is building relationships with alternative church groups and Christian intentional communities. It challenges Mennonites to consider how we’re living up to our theological commitments. ision: Healing and Hope banV ners make a great addition to your sanctuary, foyer, fellowship hall or other gathering area. They’re available for purchase online in three languages: Spanish, Indonesian and English. (Cost varies from $135 to $235 depending on style.) Follow this link to order: mennoniteusa.org/ resources/healing-and-hope-banners
Support for PSMC Pacific Southwest Mennonite Conference gathers California, Arizona and Nevada churches in partnership for leadership, mission and congregational renewal. Giving by congregations and individuals ensures that conference ministers are funded, mission activities flourish, and resources are available for church nurture. Donations may be sent to: PO Box 39038, Phoenix, AZ 85069