First United Methodist Church of Santa Monica - The Sentinel Newsletter - May, 2024

SENTINEL SENTINEL

Farewell Farewell Rev. Patricia Farris Rev. Patricia Farris

HORIZONS HORIZONS

By Rev. Patricia Farris

Thank you

The privilege of serving alongside you as your Senior Minister for these past 26 years has been a great joy My mind and heart are full of memories, stories, faces, experiences, challenges, accomplishments, milestones, and adventures I am deeply grateful for each and all and give thanks to God for this amazing, wondrous ministry we have shared.

In the church year now, we are in the season of Eastertide, the season of remembering and giving thanks for the death and resurrection of Christ, a season of endings and new beginnings, a season of saying “good-bye” and saying “hello,” a season of cherishing the past, living into the present, and opening hearts and minds to a future yet untold.

We will soon move past the Ascension of Christ and into the coming of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost, that wondrous day of energy and power when Jesus’ promise to send the Spirit into that new community of believers bursts forth in new vitality and joy Surely, they could not have foreseen what would lie ahead, yet they were filled with energy, confidence and courage as they eagerly embraced God’s power to transform their lives, fill them with hope, and form them anew into a people called into service, praise, and witness

So as this chapter in the unfolding story of God’s church draws to a close, I offer my favorite benediction from the words of the Apostle Paul: “And now unto God, who by the power at work within us, is able to accomplish abundantly far more than all we can ask or imagine–to God be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus, now and forevermore.”

In gratitude, Patricia Farris

REV. PATRICIA FARRIS’ RETIREMENT AND UPCOMING PREACHING SCHEDULE

May Rev. Patricia Farris preaching all Sundays

June 2 Holy Communion, Rev. Patricia's last Sunday

June 9

June 16

Rev. Keri Olsen Paget preaching

Ron Theile preaching

June 23 Scholarship Sunday - Tricia Guerrero preaching

June 30 Rev Larry Young preaching

July 7 Holy Communion - Rev Gregory Batson's first Sunday in worship

Rev. Patricia Farris’ last Sunday will be Sunday, June 2.

Rev. Gregory Batson’s first Sunday will be Sunday, July 7.

An opportunity to take a polaroid photo and leave a note for Rev. Farris’ scrapbook is available on Sundays after worship

If you would like to email a message for the book, contact: j jones@santamonicaumc org

FAREWELL CELEBRATION FOR REV. PATRICIA FARRIS AND DAVID BREMER

Stay after worship on Sunday, June 2, as we have a Farewell Brunch for Rev Patricia Farris and her husband David Bremer Featuring special speakers, reflections and a time to celebrate Rev Patricia’s 26 years at First UMC Santa Monica Sunday, June 2, after worship in Simkins Hall

Lastly, we welcome you to make a Love Offering to give from the heart showing your gratitude as Patricia and David embark on their next chapter. We will be collecting gifts and cards prior to June 2 at the church office, or you may bring something on her last Sunday, June 2. Gifts of money should be made out directly to Patricia Farris.

WORSHIP: IN-PERSON AND ONLINE

WORSHIP IN THE SANCTUARY

We worship on Sundays at 10 a m in-person in the Sanctuary each week If you feel ill, please choose to worship from home online

COMMUNION SUNDAYS

Berneice Southcott prepares the Communion elements before worship, with the help of Congregation Care Associate Anne Premer Mary Crawford and Rose Kujawa help take care of the elements after worship Thank you all for your service!

WORSHIP ONLINE

We offer several options for participating in online worship

You may join in the service Livestream in real time or later at your convenience on these platforms:

Sundays 10 a m Worship Online LIVESTREAM on:

• Website: www santamonicaumc org/livestream

After worship: www santamonicaumc org/sunday-servicearchive

• Facebook: www facebook com/santamonicaumc/live

• YouTube Channel: @SantaMonicaUMC

• The First UMC App: (download from the App Store, search FirstUMC SM)

Let us know if you need assistance in joining online.

CHILDREN'S MINISTRY / SUNDAY SCHOOL

Families are invited to begin worship in the Sanctuary Following the Children's Message, children are guided to Sunday School for ages 12 months through 5th grade in the Education Building. Parents with infants are welcome to worship in the Sanctuary or in the Family Zone in the Narthex.

You are invited to look around and greet a child and their family in worship. You might hear a few more giggles and whispers or see some wiggles...let’s celebrate the joyful and life-filled presence beloved children bring to our community each week! www.santamonicaumc.org/childrens-ministry

BLOOD PRESSURE SCREENINGS

The Health Ministry Council hosts Blood Pressure screenings once a month We are grateful to this ministry for their continued care of the congregation! Sunday, May 12, after worship in the Fireside Room

MAY ON-GOING MINISTRIES

• Men’s Bible Study Tuesdays, 7 a.m. via Zoom

• Open Space Young Adults May 15, 7 p.m. Off-site

• Listening Hearts Women’s Group May 1 & 15, Coffee and Connect: 10 a.m. Literati Cafe (12081 Wilshire Blvd, LA CA 90025) May 8 & 22, 6:30 p.m. via Zoom

• Prayer Quilt Ministry Third Saturday of the month: Meeting May 18, Room 300

• The Chancel Choir Rehearsals on Thursdays 7:40 p m in the Choir Room

• Blood Pressure Screenings May 12, Fireside Room

• Sunday School for Kids Sundays, 10 a m Meets in the Sanctuary for Children‘s Message, then goes to Room 204 (Toddlers) and Room 206 for K through 5th Grade

• UMYF Youth Group May 5 & 19 (last meeting until the Fall) 6-8 p m Youth Lounge

For more info, visit: www santamonicaumc org

OPEN SPACE YOUNG ADULTS

A place of community for “youngish” adults (loosely in your 20’s, 30’s even 40’s!) We seek to journey alongside one another in spiritual discovery, growth, and belonging We gather monthly for conversations and connection May Meeting: May 15, 7 p.m. off-site

LISTENING HEARTS WOMEN’S GROUP

Listening Hearts is a group for women of all ages, grounded in the practices of sacred listening, prayer and reflection. We gather both in person and online weekly. On the first and third Wednesdays we meet in person at Literati Cafe, and for the second and fourth Wednesdays we meet via Zoom in the evening. All are welcome to join! Contact Tricia Guerrero to learn more: t.guerrero@santamonicaumc.org

May Meetings: May 1 & 15, Coffee and Connect: 10 a m Literati Cafe (12081 Wilshire Blvd, LA CA 90025) May 8 & 22, 6:30 p m via Zoom

YOUTH MINISTRY

Youth Group meets weekly, and is open to all 6th - 12th graders in the community. They gather on Sunday evenings in the Youth Lounge for dinner, games and a program or topic for discussion and reflection. May Meetings: May 5 & 19 (last meeting until the Fall)

6 - 8 p.m. in the Youth Lounge

THE CHANCEL CHOIR

The Chancel Choir provides music every Sunday during the 10 a.m. Sanctuary Worship Service. Sing in the Chancel Choir! We always welcome new members who would like to sing with the choir! Rehearsals on Thursday evenings, and sing in church each Sunday morning Contact Jim Smith if you are interested: djes@roadrunner com

May 1 - 4

MAY

ataGlance

Rev. Patricia Farris at General Conference

Sat May 4 World Labyrinth Day

May Month of Service: Harvest Home

Sun May 5 During Worship: Holy Communion

Moments for Mission re: May Month of Service

After worship: United Women in Faith High School Senior Luncheon

Special Opportunity to Walk the Labyrinth Scholarship applications closing YSP Leadership team meeting

WELCOME TO OUR LABYRINTH

by First UMC member and Labyrinth docent, Cindy

McQuade

Why walk? Why the pilgrimage?

Wed May 8

May Mid-Week Recital (last one until the Fall)

Sat May 11 May Month of Service: Relay for Life

Sun May 12 Mother’s Day

Sat May 18

Blood Pressure Screenings in the Fireside Rm

Prayer Quilt Workparty

May Month of Service: The People Concern

Sun May 19 Pentecost Sunday

First UMC Spring Concert

Sat May 25 May Month of Service: Westside Food Bank

Sun May 26 Trinity Sunday

After worship: Rev Robert English and family visiting

Preschool Spring Fair

Mon May 27 Memorial Day, church campus closed

METHODIST FOUNDATION SCHOLARSHIPS

Every year the Loans & Scholarships committee has the pleasure of acknowledging outstanding scholars, including graduating high school seniors, continuing undergraduates, and graduate students, for their scholastic excellence, commitment to community, and dedication to our church Applications are open until Friday, May 5, 9 p m www santamonicaumc org/methodistfoundation, or stop by the church office (Deadline includes essay ) Methodist Scholarship Applications: Deadline is May 5

UNITED WOMEN IN FAITH SENIOR SCHOLARSHIP LUNCHEON

The United Women in Faith are excited to celebrate three high school graduates for a special scholarship recognition, on Sunday, May 5, after worship in the Fireside Room All are invited to join in the celebration! There is a $10 charge for the lunch to offset costs. Please RSVP by April 29 (for lunch count): to Joy Williams 310-709-6608; joy.williams9832@gmail.com, or Robin Henning: reggaerobin@yahoo.com

It can be hard to sit with an idea, a feeling, a struggle, a question so you carry it with you as you walk and let it percolate, let it process, unfold, reveal itself, settle in, move through you. You walk as you wait for a prayer or a question to be answered. You walk the Labyrinth as you yearn for discernment, calm, answers, peace, reassurance. You walk as you wait to be heard, acknowledged, soothed.

The Labyrinth is a walking path leading to The Center, leading in and leading out of the Center. (Your Center?) The Center of the Labyrinth is a place to sit with God. "BE STILL AND KNOW THAT I AM GOD." Perhaps; "You can stop walking now. Be with me, my child." You stop walking when you reach the center of the Labyrinth You may sit or stand in the center for as long as you like

Take your time or move quickly Return, again, for further contemplation It's between you and God Listen, Ask, Give Thanks, Pray, Question, Keep Listening, Breathe, Walk Go at your own pace Slow down or push on harder Listen quietly or listen harder

Barefooted or in your stocking feet Put one foot in front of the other It's what we usually do, without paying attention Now, pay attention and come step onto the Labyrinth

WORLD LABYRINTH DAY

Sunday, May 5, after worship in the Fireside Room

First UMC joins The Labyrinth Society, in collaboration with Veriditas, The Legacy Labyrinth Project, and the Australian Labyrinth Network in celebrating World Labyrinth Day on Saturday, May 4, 2024. Every year on the first Saturday in May thousands of people around the world participate in World Labyrinth Day as a moving meditation for world peace and shared appreciation of the labyrinth experience

Walk as One at 1: On this 16th Annual World Labyrinth Day, as in previous years, many will walk a labyrinth at 1 p m local time creating a unified rolling wave of peaceful energy passing from one time zone to the next around the globe Saturday, May 4, 1 p.m. - 3 p.m. Simkins Hall

LABYRINTH OPEN SUNDAY MAY

5

As a continuation of World Labyrinth Day we will have the Labyrinth open after worship on Sunday, May 5. Join us for meditative walking, to ask questions, and to hear experiences about the spiritual practice of walking the Labyrinth. For those unable to walk, we have finger labyrinths available (see docents for assistance.)

Sunday, May 5, 11 a.m. - 12 p.m. in Simkins Hall

The Mission Council has coordinated a Month of Service for May With our hearts and hands, we will move beyond the church walls and out into our community! Working alongside our mission partners, we will have a variety of hands-on service opportunities throughout the month of May To sign up, email Tricia Guerrero t guerrero@santamonicaumc org

Saturday, May 4, 12 – 2 p.m. – Harvest Home

Help Harvest Home set up for their Mother’s Day event for the moms at Pico House, their newest location.

Saturday, May 11 – American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life (see info below)

Saturday, May 18, 8 – 11 a.m. – The People Concern The People Concern host an on-going sandwich making service. Location: The Access Center, 503 Olympic Blvd. SM 90401

Saturday, May 25 – 11:00 a.m. – Westside Food Bank Sorting day at their warehouse facility Location: 11800 Olympic, LA 90064, 2nd Warehouse Annex

RELAY FOR LIFE 2024

The Health Ministry Council is excited to announce First UMC is supporting the American Cancer Society’s annual Relay for Life at Drake Stadium at UCLA. Relay for Life strives to bring communities together to remember loved ones lost, honor survivors of all cancers, and raise money to help the American Cancer Society make a global impact on cancer The Health Ministry Council supports this cause for all these important reasons A special event is the Luminaria walk - to remember those we’ve lost, celebrate cancer survivors, and show everyone affected by cancer that we are the light in the darkness You may walk at any time for any length during day-long event For more information visit: www santamonicaumc org/health-ministry, click on the Relay for Life team page Contact Debi Jenkinson at 310-337-7626 or debijwong@yahoo com for more information

MAY MID-WEEK RECITAL

The May Mid-Week Recital features:

Philip Allen Smith, Organist Philip Smith is currently organist for Congregation Har-El, in Palm Desert, CA and subs for various other churches in Palm Springs and Los Angeles

Mr Smith was Interim Director of Music and Organist at The Church of St Paul in the Desert, Palm Springs (February 2020 – September 2023 Also, he was Minister of Music and Organist at The Church of Our Saviour, Episcopal Parish, in San Gabriel, a historic parish in Los Angeles, 2008-2019. He recently retired, August 31, 2019. He was appointed Organ Conservator, Walt Disney Concert Hall in July 2004 and concluded his responsibilities, August 2019. He was High Holy Days Organist at Stephen Wise Temple. Previous work has been at Temple Judea, Tarzana and Temple Israel of Hollywood (1998-2008) and Wilshire United Methodist Church, Los Angeles (2002-2007). In June 2015, Mr. Smith was given the title of Honorary Canon of the Cathedral Center of St. Paul, Los Angeles. Visit the website for full bio and past recitals: www santamonicaumc org/mid-week-recital-series

Wednesday, May 8, 12:10 p.m. ONLINE:

Facebook: @santamonicaumc • YouTube Channel : www youtube/c/santamonicaumc • Website: www.santamonicaumc.org/livestream • The First UMC App: (To download, go to the App Store/ FirstUMC SM)

FIRST UMC SPRING CONCERT

Don’t miss this year's Spring Concert, featuring Michael McClish: World Premiere – Mass of Ascension; Poulenc: Gloria. Chancel Choir with guest singers, orchestra & Westwood Methodist Chancel Choir No admission charge – Freewill Offering will be taken Reception to follow performance Childcare available, email Tricia Guerrero: t guerrero@santamonicaumc org to make arrangements Sunday, May 19, 4 p.m. in the Sanctuary

For those who can’t attend Sunday night, you may observe the Concert rehearsal Saturday morning (May 18) at 9 a.m. at no charge. Out of courtesy to the musicians please no cell phones; families with babies/small children may listen from the Narthex

VISIT WITH THE ENGLISH FAMILY

Saturday, May 11, 10 a.m. - 12 a.m., UCLA Drake Stadium

Rev. Robert English and family will be worshiping with us on Sunday, May 26 Stay after worship to visit with him and his family in the Fireside Room Sunday, May 26, after worship in the Fireside Room

PRESCHOOL SPRING FAIR

Stay after worship on Sunday, May 26, for the Annual Preschool Spring Fair. All are welcome! Festivities include a bounce house, food & drinks, bake sale, arts and crafts, games, and more!

Sunday, May 26, 11 a.m. - 1 p.m., in the Courtyard and Simkins Hall

LOOKING FORWARD TO JUNE

June 2: Rev Patricia Farris’ last day in worship

Farewell Brunch for Rev Patricia and David Bremer (see info on page 1)

June 9: Companions in Christ class begins (see info below)

June 12-15: Cal-Pac Annual Conference in Burbank

June 23: Scholarship Sunday / Youth Service Project Fundraiser

COMPANIONS IN CHRIST – THE WAY OF BLESSEDNESS

This 9-week small group study focuses on The Beatitudes from Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount – on the meanings of the words and how we give them and receive them The group is an opportunity to grow spiritually along with other “companions in Christ ” Participants will meet in-person on nine consecutive Sundays, June 9 - August 4, from 11:30 a m - 1:30 p m after worship Each week’s readings and daily exercises introduce one of the Beatitudes and encourages reflections on it We are grateful to Sue Payne and Char Smith who will be leading this study.

To sign up, email Tricia - t.guerrero@santamonicaumc.org. Participants will need a copy of the Participant’s book and their own journal or notebook in which to write down their reflections. You can purchase the Participant's book from a variety of different online bookstores including Cokesbury, and AbeBooks.

Sue Payne shares her reflection from past Companions in Christ studies:

"I so enjoyed all the Companions in Christ studies! I grew a lot spiritually, gained a better sense of my Christian beliefs, and developed friendships with my “companions” who were in the groups with me If there’s any way to participate in this experience, please do so!" Sundays, June 9 - August 4, from 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. in the Fireside Room

NEW! CHILDREN'S MINISTRY PRESENTS MESSY CAMP

Usually known as Vacation Bible School/Camp, this year we're choosing a new name to match the theme and fun activities we have planned for the week!

August 5 - 9, 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Open to all childrenK through 5th grade Registration will open mid-May Email Tricia Guerrero with questions: t guerrero@santamonicaumc org

GIVING MATTERS

There are many ways to contribute to the mission and ministry of First UMC. You may give online via the QR code on the right (take a photo of the code with your phone camera), via mail, or onsite through the church office mail slot. To learn more about ways to give, including the annual Stewardship campaign, Planned Giving, Tree of Life, support for the Music Program, and more, visit: www santamonicaumc org/give

THE NICODEMUS FUND

Nicodemus – Patron Saint of Seekers May he protect the seeker in each of us from condemnation and condescension. May he guide seekers’ steps in the way that leads to eternal life. May he place us in the company of compassionate teachers whose love defines a new community of hope and grace. May he give us courage to dare to love God with heart, mind, soul and strength.

A church fund was developed in 2002 called The Nicodemus Fund to provide small, no-interest loans to persons in relationship with the church. Loans are given at the pastors’ discretion pursuant to a written contract. Donors and recipients are anonymous We hope you will donate towards this important ministry (select the fund in the drop-down menu) www santamonicaumc org/give

INAUGURAL LEGACY LUNCHEON SUCCESS

FLOWERS

To order flowers to remember or honor a loved one for Sunday Worship service, go to: www.santamonicaumc.org/flower-fund

Sunday, April 21, was a beautiful day to recognize and celebrate the future growth of the Church and Foundation during the Legacy Circle Recognition Luncheon. Speakers Michael Lamb and Margaret Brown were joyful and informative. Thank you to Ty Woodward for playing the piano. Food was delicious. Join us again next year for our second annual luncheon not to be missed! Info on the Legacy Circle online: www santamonicaumc org/planned-giving

COMMUNITY NEWS

BAPTISMS

Brennan Kamber Rold was baptized by Rev Patricia Farris on April 7, 2024

Devon Caroline Weiss was baptized by Rev Patricia Farris on April 21, 2024

The Rold Family, with Rev. Patricia Farris

DEATHS

REQUEST A PRAYER QUILT

Led by Sue Payne and Maile Marquand, the Prayer Quilt Ministry offers Prayer Quilts to those in need To request a quilt:

1 Talk to the intended recipient Ask if the person is willing to be prayed for and to receive a quilt Ask what specific prayers are wished for There is no charge for the quilt – it is a gift of love

Devon Weiss (center) with Rev. Keri Olsen Paget and Rev. Patricia Farris

We extend our deepest sympathies to the families and friends of these departed loved ones:

First UMC member Christine Rose Stumpf died April 5, 2024. A memorial will be held on Saturday, June 1, 3 p.m. in the Sanctuary

CONGRATULATIONS

Correction: Congratulations to First UMC member Maddy Ing, who will be attending Emory School of Medicine (not College, as stated in the May Sentinel) for a residency in general surgery starting July 1

THANK YOU!

Thanks to First UMC Member Emily Payne for her beautiful Lenten Art Exhibit! She displayed photographs taken in the community garden where she keeps a plot Emily has generously donated two of the pieces to a 580 Cafe Silent Auction, and the other four photographs to the church

UPDATE

Upward Bound House’s Home Run for Kids has been postponed for November 17, 2024. More info this Fall.

WAYS TO SERVE AT FIRST UMC

Reach out if you’re interested in the many ways to serve here in our church community! Opportunities include: Labyrinth Host, Lay Lector, Welcome Ambassador, Usher, In-Home Communion Server, and Singing in the Chancel Choir All are vital ways to faithfully share your gifts If you are interested in learning more or exploring a service opportunity, contact Tricia Guerrero, Pastoral Associate: t guerrero@santamonicaumc org

2 Contact Maile Marquand and Sue Payne at: prayerquilts@santamonicaumc org (Prayer quilts may only be requested and sponsored by members of the First UMC gregation.) 3 Select the quilt, if some are already made, uggest colors if one is to be selected for you Once the t selection has been made, First UMC will display the quilt he Friday Community Email, and also during Sunday a.m. worship, where you may tie a prayer knot during inson worship, or view the quilt on the Livestream. next meeting date is Saturday, May 18, Room 300. tact info@santamonicaumc.org if you would like to unteer. Prayer Quilt Ministry on the website: www.santamonicaumc.org/prayerquiltministry

CONGREGATION CARE CORNER

If you have any questions or need pastoral care, you may always call the Pastoral Care line (310-393-8258 and enter extension 1), which is available for people to leave a message requesting care. If you have questions, need assistance, or would like to volunteer to help with our homebound folks, please contact Congregation Care Associate: Anne Premer: a.premer@santamonicaumc.org. Or, call (310)393-8258 ext. 103.

PRAYER REQUESTS

The First UMC Prayer Group is a network of persons who provide regular, dependable, and confidential prayer support You may send a prayer request to the church at any time, and our Prayer Group will be notified of your request https://santamonicaumc org/prayer-requests/

MEMORIAL FUND CAMPUS BEAUTIFICATION

Memorial funds given to the church are always deeply rooted in gratitude Most recently we have planted the courtyard plantings consisting of dwarf olive plants We are grateful to David Penson for spearheading the project and to our landscaper Joel Gomez for his commitment to excellence. Olives symbolize peace and friendship. We give thanks for all the friendships that happen each week at church and we pray for peace for all the unrest in the greater world.

Christina Eddy, Business Administrator

Community Photos

Easter Sunday

Kids Night Out

PRESCHOOL CORNER

The Preschool kids were so excited by the visit from the City Sanitation Department and the infamous garbage truck!

Intergenerational Game night, with members of the Youth, Shareringers and Open Space

Scan to visit the website @santamonicaumc

FIRST UMC OFFICE HOURS

Tuesday - Friday 9 a.m. - 3 p.m., and by appointment

Pastoral care by appointment only: 310-393-8258, enter ext. 1

Todd Erlandson, Haiti Team Leader, reports: “Leigh and I drove up to Baton Rouge to visit Caz and his family on Sunday, April 13 we visited their sponsoring church in Prairieville, went to lunch together at March Studio-designed Atomic Burger, and were invited to their home Caz’s wife Kettia is starting work this week in a local coffee shop, while Caz is looking for a job. The kids are 10, 5 and 2, and Kettia’s sister Hernane also came over from Haiti with them.

It was great to see them. They feel so fortunate to be given a new opportunity in the United States Caz is continuing to help me manage the Pennies for Peanuts project in Sobier ”

Thank you for the great news, Todd! Prayers continue for Caz and his family as they settle in.

CALLING ALL GRADUATES!

First UMC wants to recognize all its graduates. Let us know where you’re graduating from, your major, and what your future plans are Deadline Monday, May 15 Contact Sarah Rold in the church office: 310-393-8258 x 106 or s rold@santamonicaumc org