White Rock UMC: Recent Episodes
White Rock UMC
A podcast channel containing different episodes and unique content produced by White Rock UMC in the heart of East Dallas.
For the fourth Sunday of Advent Rev. Kerry Smith explored the love of Advent through the story of Joseph in Matthew 1:18-25.
There is a lot going on the world. The "most wonderful time of the year," is often filled with all kinds of stress and right in the midst of that, on the third Sunday of Advent, we celebrate Joy.
Where do you see joy?
As we continue through the Epilogue of our year long series, Unfold, we turn to week three of Advent... Joy!
Rev. Kerry Smith preached from Matthew 11:2-11.
Keep up with all our media and get connected with others in the White Rock UMC community by downloading our app here;
https://get.theapp.co/9sgy
For week two of Advent Rev. Kerry Smith preached from Matthew 3:1-12. You won't always hear people referred to as "brood of vipers" or "children of snakes," but you will in this week's text! How does that play into a week focused on peace?
Check out the sermon and let us know what you think.
Rev. Kerry Smith kicked off Advent, and the Epilogue of our yearlong series Unfold, by exploring hope through Jesus' words in Matthew 24:36-44.
Rev. Kerry Smith preached on mentorship through the lens of Paul and Timothy in 2 Timothy 1:1-14.
Rev. Kerry Smith takes a look at community and how we can be together through the lens of Martha and Mary in Luke 10:38-42.
Who would have though the story of Martha and Mary, in Luke 10, would resonate so well with the midterm elections? Take a listen or you can read along on our website.
Have thoughts regarding this blog? Reach out to Rev. Phil Dieke at pdieke@wrumc.org
On this All Saints' Sunday 2022, Rev. Kerry Smith preached about togetherness through the lens of Ruth and Naomi, as found in the Book of Ruth in the Hebrew Bible.
Dr. Lisa and Rev. Justin Hancock preached on 1 Samuel 25, specifically looking at the story of Abigail and David through the lens of their work at the Julian Way. You can find more about Disability Theology and their work at:
https://thejulianway.org/
This Sunday is All Saint's Sunday, and sometimes you just need All Saint's Sunday.
Check out this spoken edition of Rebecca Garrett Pace's blog, which you can also read here.
And, if you need somebody to talk to, Rebecca offers this at the end:
White Rock UMC is here for you. If you are struggling with grief or another issue and need to speak with a pastor, please do not hesitate to email Rev. Kerry Smith (ksmith@wrumc.org) or Rev. Phil Dieke (pdieke@wrumc.org). Our staff can also provide resources for finding a therapist or counselor, as well as recovery resources. For more information on recovery resources, visit wrumc.org/recovery.
Join us Sunday, November 4 at 10:50am CST (don't forget to fall back an hour) in-person, or join us online (wrumc.org).
In this conversation Rev. Phil Dieke discusses with Sammy Waters, Minister to Children, Youth and Families, about All Saint's Sunday and the need to discuss the details of this Sunday with you kids. They talk the reason behind All Saint's Sunday, and why talking with you kids about death may not be easy, but is very much necessary. They suggest so phrases to stay away from and some resources to check out if you are looking for additional verbiage (see below).
As always, let us know if you have any questions, comments, or idea regarding how to bring faith into your everyday lives and/or what kind of content we can create that will be helpful to you and your family.
Resources:
Faithful Families: Creating Sacred Moments at Home by Traci Smith
To Light Their Way: A Collection of Prayers and Liturgies for Parents by Kayla Craig
We regularly write blogs at White Rock UMC. Now you have the opportunity to listen to those blogs.
In this episode Rev. Phil Dieke mentions our church app as an opportunity to connect. You can download that app here:
https://get.theapp.co/9sgy
If you are looking for opportunities to connect you can email Phil (pdieke@wrumc.org). Also, let us know what you think about this read version of our blogs. Is this something we should do more of? We'd love to hear from you.
Rev. Kerry Smith kicked off Chapter 9, titled "Together," by sharing the story of Esther as found in the Hebrew scriptures and reminding us that maybe we have all been called for "a time such as this."
Rev. Kerry Smith wraps up Chapter 8 with Commitment Sunday. She preached from Mark 12:38-44, exploring what God has gifted us and what we are to give back.
If you'd like to make a financial commitment to White Rock UMC for 2023, you can do so her:
https://forms.monday.com/forms/03b247f083566aba674849bbbaa7553d?r=use1
In week three of Chapter 8 Rev. Kerry Smith talks about what it means to flourish, specifically through the lens of Paul's words in 2 Corinthians 9:6-15. Dara and Randy Austin also offered their reflection on flourishing and why they support the work of WRUMC.
What does flourishing mean to you?
In week two of Chapter 8 Rev. Kerry Smith invited us to consider how our generosity helps us to be salt and light to the world, as Jesus discussed in Matthew 5:14-16. Turns out, neither salt, nor light exist for the benefit of itself, rather they both enhance other things!
Rev. Kerry Smith kicked off Chapter 8 entitled "Recognizing Abundance & Flourishing," by preaching from Genesis 12:1-2. In this text we are reminded that we, like Abraham, are blessed not for our own benefit, rather we are blessed to be a blessing to all.
How do you understand "blessing"?
This week concluded Chapter 7 of our Unfold series. Throughout the chapter we have look at various aspect of "radical." This week, Rev. Phil Dieke looked at radical hospitality through the lens of Genesis 18:1-8 and Luke 10:1-12.
What image emerges when you think of hospitality, much less radical hospitality?
How have the actions of our country, our state, even our church aligned, or failed to align, with this notion of radical hospitality?
Rev. Kerry Smith takes a look at one of the most familiar parables, the parable of the Good Samaritan, as she explores what radical compassion looks like in our lives and our church.
How are you showing radical compassion in your community?
The statement "Thoughts and Prayers" has become a divisive statement in a country desperately in need of action. Can the statement "Thoughts and Prayers" be reclaimed for a radical faith? Rev. Kerry Smith addresses this in her sermon as she considers Romans 8:26-27.
What do you think of the statement "Thoughts and Prayers"?
This week Rev. Kerry Smith takes a look at radical non-violence, specifically through the words of Jesus in Matthew 5:38-48.
Is non-violence a viable option in our world today, or is it just too radical?
Rev. Dara Austin joined us as a guest preacher to kick off chapter 7 of our Unfold series. Dara introduced this chapter by inviting us to consider what is radical about our faith, what mad Jesus radical for his time, and how might we apply his radical love in our lives, today?
Let us know your thoughts on "Radical." Email us at office@wrumc.org
In our final sermon from chapter 6, "Cosmic Wisdom," Rev. Kerry Smith embraces the wisdom from the book of Job. She preached from Job 28:20-28 and invited us to consider the deep wisdom from this tradition. How are we to respond to pain and suffering? What does it have to teach us?
Let us know your thoughts on Job, and the wisdom associated with it.
Rev. Kerry Smith continued our look at Cosmic Wisdom, this week focusing on wisdom that comes from unlikely places. Rev. Smith preached from Ecclesiastes 4:9-12, drawing on the wisdom of "the teacher" she invited us to recognize the power of community and the collective wisdom that surrounds us.
This week we begin a new chapter in our Unfold series, a chapter specifically focusing on Cosmic Wisdom. The Hebrew Scriptures, our Old Testament, has much to say about wisdom. We begin this chapter focusing on the wisdom of Proverbs. This wisdom comes from the Deuteronomistic Theology that professes when we do good and live according to the law we will have a good and blessed life. Conversely, when we break the law bad things will happen to us.
Rev. Smith preached from Proverbs 3:1-6. Let us know what you think about the wisdom of Proverbs.
In this final installment of Chapter 5, Cheap but Costly, Rev. Kerry Smith dove into Sanctifying Grace. John Wesley believed this was the grace that continues to work on us throughout our lives. After we have been wooed by prevenient grace (though God never stops wooing), after we have responded to God's justifying grace (though this is sometimes a daily occurrence), we are empowered and made holy by God' sanctifying grace. This form of grace continues to make us into the person God created us to be.
Rev. Smith preached from Romans 12:2, 9-21. Let us know your thoughts on sanctifying grace.
In this third sermon of Chapter 5, Free But Costly, Rev. Kerry Smith looks at justifying grace. John Wesley talked about justifying grace as the grace that produces a response in us, while prevenient grace woos us, justifying grace creates a response in us, we turn toward God and make a conscious response to accept God's grace.
Rev. Smith preached from Ephesians 2:1-10. Let us know your thoughts on justifying grace.
Rev. Kerry Smith continues Chapter 5's dive into grace by discussing prevenient grace, or the grace that goes before. Before what? Before we can know God or even understand God, or God's grace, prevenient grace is God's constant and continual pursuit of us. God's perpetual wooing of us.
Kerry used Psalm 139 as the text to discuss prevenient grace. Check out this week's sermon, then find other aspects of the service on our website or our app.
This Sunday we welcome our new Senior Pastor, Rev. Kerry Smith. Kerry kicked off chapter 5, "Free but Costly." Throughout this chapter we will be focusing on grace, and more specifically, John Wesley's understanding of grace, and his understanding of the process of salvation. Kerry began this chapter looking at the story of Jacob, specifically Genesis 32:22—33:4.
Find out more at www.wrumc.org or on our app.
In the midst of difficult situations, Monica Frazier invites us to take our Bibles in one hand, and the newspaper in the other as we wrestle with our theology and troubling times in our culture. You are empowered to use your voice, to speak out, to work!
Monica preached from Luke 24:44-53.
Find more of our resources at our website or by downloading our app.
Rev. Keith Boone shared the incredible story of grace present in the story of Saul becoming Paul in Acts 9.
To continue our journey through Chapter 4: Flawed but Empowered, Rev. Phil Dieke preached from Acts 10. As he indicates in his sermon the entire chapter of Acts 10 is so good, and has much to offer. Thus, take some time to read it in its entirety. Phil focused specifically on Peter and his progressive approach to a faith he held so dear. An approach that allowed him to institute change, an approach that allowed the birth of the church to spread far beyond Jerusalem. Peter wasn't perfect in his approach, but he did allow for progress, and most importantly allowed for the Holy Spirit to show up and do her work... even when he wasn't expecting it.
If you'd like to keep up with not only our sermons, but the various media that is produced at WRUMC, you can download our app here:
https://get.theapp.co/9sgy
What a way for Rev. Mitchell Boone to conclude a decade of ministry at White Rock UMC, and more generally in East Dallas. If you haven't heard, Mitchell has been appointed as the Senior Pastor at First UMC Dallas, beginning July 1, 2022. If you'd like to reach out to Mitchell, you can still email him at mboone@wrumc.org to send him well wishes.
Enjoy this final sermon, and farewell from Mitchell.
This week Rev. Mitchell Boone kicked off Chapter 4 of Unfold Series. This chapter is title "Flawed but Empowered." Once again, we find ourselves faced with a very challenging and tough week. Following the school shooting in Uvalde, TX Mitchell addressed Ascension Sunday through the lens of pain, suffering, and so much grief being felt following this horrible event. Mitchell doesn't hold back, we hope you'll listen and let us know your thoughts.
If you are feeling hopeless or simply in need of somebody to talk to, or if you are looking for ways to respond and mobilize around gun violence, gun safety, and gun reform, email Rev. Phil Dieke (pdieke@wrumc.org).
The work of the North Texas Conference Board of Church and Society is to raise awareness regarding issues of justice, raise and distribute funds for the work of justice, and provide opportunities for local churches and individuals to engage in the work of justice. This month's episode covers all bases as Rev. Phil Dieke, Board Chair, interviews two previous Peace with Justice grant recipients and fellow board member Rev. James Minor who is coordinating an auction to raise fund for the Peace with Justice grants.
The first grant recipient we hear from is Janet Fisher. Janet is a member of First UMC Denton and co-founder, with her husband Dennis, of Marfa Ministry. Marfa Ministry works with eight Eurasian United Methodist Churches, seven in Russian and one in Ukraine. Janet shares how the Peace with Justice grant helped support their work with these ministries and also shares the struggle these ministries have experienced given the ongoing war in Ukraine. There are many ways to get involved with the work of Marfa Ministries, including buying some of their art and/or puzzles! Learn more about this incredible ministry here.
The second grant recipient we hear from is Rev. Cathy Sweeney. Though she currently serves at Arapaho UMC in Richardson, Cathy received the grant when she was serving at Christ UMC in Plano where they started a warming station in partnership with The Salvation Army. This has become an ecumenical project reaching across Plano and the greater Collin County area. You can read more about their work and sign up to volunteer or donate here.
Finally, we hear from Rev. James Minor, a retired clergyperson in the North Texas Conference. James serves on the NTC Board of Church and Society, specifically as the Peace with Justice coordinator. James has a great passion to raise money for these grants so local congregations will feel supported and encouraged to engage in the work of justice in their own communities or all around the world. If you or your local congregation would like to donate items for the auction in June, you can do so by filling out this form. The more items collected, the more money raised. There will be a silent auction as well as an inperson auction on Tuesday, June 7 at Hamilton Park UMC. Stay tuned for more info regarding this auction.
Note, James's wifi had some issues, so there are a few points his audio cuts out a bit.
If you'd like more information on these ministries, the upcoming auction, or Church and Society you can contact the individuals via email:
Janet Fisher - janetfisher@marfaministry.org
Rev. Cathy Sweeney - cathy@arapahoumc.org
Rev. James Minor - revjiminor@outlook.com
Rev. Phil Dieke - pdieke@wrumc.org
Rev. Mitchell Boone shared the Easter story found in Luke 24:1-12. He talked about preaching on Easter being like telling a joke everybody already knows the ending to, they want you to finish the joke, but you better do a good job telling it. The Easter story is something we celebrate every year, but the reality of Easter often goes back up on the shelf after Easter Sunday, and is kept there until we bring it down again next year. Mitchell encouraged us to embrace Easter each and everyday, even though it doesn't feel like Easter for many today, or other days.
Mitchell received two applauses during this sermon. You'll have to listen to hear why!
May you experience the truth of Easter each and everyday. If you are struggling to make sense of Easter in your head, or feel the truth of Easter in your heart, reach out to us. We'd love to talk with you. You can email us at office@wrumc.org.
*Note: there was a glitch with Dexter's audio, so we took down the original episode and reposted. Our apologies.
This week was a special episode as Rebecca and Phil were joined by Mitchell and Dexter. In this episode the team reflected on Easter, this being the last episode before Rebecca's renewal leave, and quite possibly Mitchell's final episode before he is reappointed to First UMC Dallas.
This is a really fun episode with great reflections on the beauty of Easter, a little roast of Mitchell, and also some great theological conversations. Let us know what you thought about our Easter worship or any other topic discussed in this episode.
As always, you can email us at worship@wrumc.org
Christ is risen.
Christ is risen, indeed!
... but what does that mean?
Mark's Gospel leaves a bit of work for us to make sense of the meaning of Easter Sunday. However, with an open heart and mind, there is definitely an invitation there for us.
If you'd like to share your reflections on this Easter Sunday text, or any of the Holy Week texts read this week, reach out to Phil. He'd love to discuss over a cup of coffee, or video chat if you're not in Dallas. You can email him at pdieke@wrumc.org.
A blessed Easter Sunday.
Today is Holy Saturday. Interestingly, the Gospel of Mark says nothing about Holy Saturday. So what is there to reflect on? The omission itself.
Rev. Phil Dieke shares how he has come to understand the role of sabbath in the midst of Holy Week.
As always, if you want to share your reflections on Holy Week, or discuss Phil's reflections, you can email him at pdieke@wrumc.org
This week's sermon began with Rev. Mitchell Boone discuss the elephant in the room. If you have not heard Mitchell has been reappointed to First UMC Dallas. His final Sunday at White Rock UMC will be June 5th.
After sharing his excitment for this incredible opportunity, and his great sadness leaving White Rock, we turned to our Palm Sunday text: Luke 19:29-40. Mitchell shared his disdain for parades in relation to the celebratory parade Jesus received coming into Jerusalem. Jesus's parade is opposite Jerusalem from Rome's militaristic parade entering the city to ensure there are no uprising during the Passover holiday.
In the midst of the parades there is expectation, both good and fearful. And, as we know, the shouts of "Hosanna" quickly turn to shouts of "crucify him."
Holy Friday is also called "Good Friday," but why Good? The events of Holy Friday seem to be anything but good. Today's reflection looks at a bit of the history behind this name, potential other names, then turns to the full text of Holy Friday in the Gospel according to Mark. In this reflection you are invited to be the interpreter, the one offering your own interpretation and reflection.
Phil makes an invitation to email him if you wish to discuss your reflection of the text, have questions about Mark's theological telling of the events of Holy Friday, or if you need space to process all this. Again, you can email Phil at pdieke@wrumc.org.
He also refers to a book he has been using to guide his reflections. That book is called "The Last Week: What the Gospels Really Teach about Jesus's Final Days in Jerusalem" by Marcus Borg and John Dominic Crossan. You can find the book here, or wherever books are sold.
Blessings to you all on this Holy Friday.
Our Holy Thursday reflection comes from Mark 14:17-25. May today's reflection prepare you for a Maundy Thursday worship experience, if you are able to attend one, and may it invite you into remembrance and connection with God and all creation, especially each time you eat.
A couple notes from Phil:
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If the reflection on the differences in the Gospel is a hangup for you, reach out to me. I'd love to talk through this. You can email me at pdieke@wrumc.org
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I apologize for my voice. In yesterday's devotion I talked about the allergies in Dallas, well they got me real good today! So apologize for my voice!
The Gospel according to Mark doesn't give us a significant amount of content regarding Holy Wednesday, nonetheless the content we have is quite significant. Rev. Phil Dieke offers his reflections on Mark 14:1-11, specifically what it has to teach us about discipleship, leadership, and the importance of women in this Holy Week journey.
If you have questions or wish to discuss today's reflection, you can email Phil at pdieke@wrumc.org.
The Gospel according to Mark dedicates a significant amount of time to the events that took place on Tuesday of Holy Week. Today's reflection focuses specifically on the parable Jesus tells in Mark 12:1-12. As you hear the text and reflect on it's layers of meaning, allow the parable to act as a mirror for you today as you continue this journey through Holy Week.
If you have questions about today's text or wish to discuss it further email Phil at pdieke@wrumc.org
In this week's episode of The Day After Sunday, Mitchell joins Rebecca and Phil to discuss Palm Sunday, the conclusion of Chapter 2: We Are Who We Are, and the elephant in the room... Mitchell's appointment to First UMC Dallas. Palm Sunday worship included kids waving palms, a wide variety of lovely music, and Mitchell sharing his disdain for parades. This worship gathering begin our transition from Chapter 2 to Chapter 3. In Chapter 3 we will be exploring Divine Love and Holy Persistence, and though Chapter 3 doesn't officially begin until next Sunday, the journey through Holy Week preps us for this new chapter.
As mentioned in this episode, we hope you'll join us for all our Holy Week opportunities. Phil will be releasing daily reflections here on the podcast channel. We will also have a Maundy Thursday service at 7:00pm CDT, Good Friday services at 12:00pm and 7:00pm CDT, Easter Sunrise service at 7:00am CDT in the Garden and Easter Worship at 10:50am CDT. All service will be live in person and streaming online with the exception of Easter Sunrise, it will not be streaming.
Also note, this is the second to last episode before we take a break. Be sure to join us next week for the season finale!
Palm Sunday, Maundy Thursday, Good Friday. Sure, you've probably heard of these days, but what about the rest of the days of Holy Week? What takes place on those days?
Join Rev. Phil Dieke for a daily reflection highlighting aspects of each day of Holy Week, beginning here with Holy Monday. The passages for this week will be taken from the Gospel according to Mark. Today's text is Mark 11:12-19. Questions to consider:
Why is Jesus hangry?
What does Jesus have against fig trees?
What is the association between fig trees and the Temple?
What exactly is a den of robbers?
If you have questions or want to discuss today's reflect, email Phil at pdieke@wrumc.org.
Rev. Mitchell Boone and Rev. Phil Dieke are joined by Dr. Donna Bowman, author of "Being Human: Becoming the Best Bag of Bones You Can Be."
This Tiny Desk conversation kicked off Chapter 2 of the year-long series "Unfold," at White Rock UMC. In this Chapter, entitled "We Are Who We Are," White Rock is exploring what it means to be human, what is human nature, and is that nature good, bad, or neutral?
In a world filled with conversations about evil, sin, and the "brokenness" of the world, this conversation offers an alternative perspective and an invitation toward healing the wounds of the world, rather than fixing something that is broken.
If you have questions for Tiny Desk Theology, email Phil Dieke (pdieke@wrumc.org). We'd love for you to be a part of the conversation.
In this week's sermon Rev. Mitchell Boone took us out of the Gospel of Luke, to the Gospel of John, specifically John 8:2-11. Through this story Mitchell approached our human nature, or what it means to be human, through the lens of scapegoating our tendency of denial, projecting onto and/or blaming others.
The scripture is another difficult one. One that once again reminds who we are far too often guilting of putting ourselves at the center of our own stories. This has been a difficult journey through Lent. One that has forced us to hold a mirror to ourselves and acknowledge the shadow side of our human nature.
What has stood out most to you in this chapter?
Find more of our Unfold resources at www.wrumc.org/unfold.
In this week's episode Rebecca and Phil reflect on the many pivots that took place for Sunday morning's worship. If the pandemic has taught us anything, it has taught us to be flexible and have a backup plan, and a backup for the backup. Beyond the pivoting, they also discuss week 5 of Lent and the ongoing conversation around sin and what it means to be human. This chapter is the longest in our year long series, partially because it spans the entirety of Lent, but also because it is really important content and conversations.
Some of the specifics discussions they shared regarding Sunday's worship was the heaviness of the content. The reality of the ongoing nature of scapegoating is a lot to process. The music was beautiful, but almost hauntingly beautiful given the topic. Next week we kickoff Holy Week with Palm Sunday. Easter is just around the corner!
As always, we'd love to hear you questions about the "Why behind the worship." You can email us at worship@wrumc.org.
Find all our Lent and Holy Week info at www.wrumc.org/lent
As we continue through this season of Lent and Chapter 2 "We Are Who We Are," Mitchell turned to Luke 18:9-14. The parable of the Pharisee and the Tax Collector provided us the opportunity to examine our own self-righteousness and yet again another example of how we put ourselves at the center of our stories.
Mitchell used the work of Brene Brown to highlight the benefits of vulnerability in combating this form of sin. Truth telling, even to ourselves, is an important first step to overcoming this sort of sin.
This journey through Lent has been really enlightening. Keep up with all that is happening in Unfold at www.wrumc.org/unfold
Dexter Evans joins Rebecca and Phil for this week's episode of The Day After Sunday. In the episode they reflect on the 4th Sunday of Lent, including what does "the 4th Sunday of Lent" mean. They discuss the broad depth of music that was displayed in worship this Sunday, which leads to a conversation on the ideas behind contemporary vs traditional worship, high vs low church, and progressive vs conservative theology. They discuss Mitchell's sermon on Luke 18:9-14, and how we often are guilty of self-righteousness, and how the Enneagram can really help with this. Finally they discuss the work of Brene Brown, specifically on shame and vulnerability. They reference Brene Brown's TedTalk which can be found here.
We'd love to hear your questions and/or thoughts about the "why behind the worship." As always you can email us at worship@wrumc.org.
We're still talking about sin? Indeed we are, and this week's text is a difficult one. Beyond the sexual assault present in the text, David's relationship to power is one that Rev. Mitchell Boone wrestles with, and invites us to consider our own role and relationship to power.
2 Samuel 11:1-5 is the first text Mitchell reads, he then continues by reading 2 Samuel 12:1-8, which includes Nathan's prophetic parable to King David. Let us know your thoughts on this text and the relationship between sin and power.
Find more resources for our Unfold series at www.wrumc.org/unfold.
This week Rebecca and Phil reflect on the heaviness that was worship this Sunday. Heaviness that came mainly from the scripture of Mitchell's sermon, 2 Samuel 11:1-5 and 2 Samuel 12:1-8. Rebecca shared her difficulty dealing with texts such as this, and her gratitude for Mitchell's addressing the difficulties in his sermon. They also discuss the value of kids' voices in worship and how we use our power to empower others, or allow other to "take the mic," during worship. If you are ever interested in helping to lead worship, email us at worship@wrumc.org so we can get you scheduled!
In this episode they discuss the lyrics of the anthem "God Has Work for Us to Do," which you can find here.
Finally, the three questions Mitchell posed at the end of his sermon were:
- Who is at the center of your own story?
- What power do you possess right now?
- How are you using that power?
Also, peekaboo :)
To get us all on the same page, Rev. Mitchell Boone gave us a working definition of sin as "anything that puts us at the center of our own story." He acknowledged this is an incomplete definition, but one that will ground us for Chapter 2, and generally for our year long series, Unfold. As he discussed sin, Mitchell spoke not just of person sin and personal piety, but also of the communal/corporate sin and the necessity for social holiness.
How do you understand corporate sin and what role does "mob mentality" play into this understanding?
How do you understand our individual, and collective, capacity as human beings?
Find more of our Unfold resources here.
Rebecca and Phil reflect on the second week of our Unfold series Chapter 2, "We Are Who We Are." They discuss Day Light Savings Time and the impact it played in worship this week. They also discuss Mitchell's sermon, specifically being an Old Testament prophet, the working definition of sin, and our human capacity.
In this episode they refer to Phil's blog "Is Vladimir Putin Evil?", the lyrics for Hymn #292 "What Wondrous Love is This," and Kate Bowler's new book "Good Enough." They also discuss joining a Covenant Group, also known as the "How is it with your soul" groups. If you are interested in joining one, you can register here.
Finally, share your worship questions with us by emailing us at worship@wrumc.org.
What does it mean to be human? This is one of the questions we'll address in Chapter 2, "We are Who We Are." Mitchell kicked off this chapter using Genesis 3:1-13, often referred to as "The Fall," narrative. In his sermon, Mitchell addressed many of the preconceived notions we bring to this text. Interpretations that are often used to subject and oppress people, specifically women. As Mitchell re-interpreted the passage, he invited us to consider the role vulnerability and power play not only in this text, but also in human nature.
So what does it mean to be human?
Let us know your thoughts and find our other resources for Chapter 2 here.
In this week’s episode, Rebecca and Mitchell discuss the amazing high-energy anthem (and why they sang “hallelujah” the week after Rebecca gave a long explanation about not singing “hallelujah” during Lent!), Mitchell’s sermon metaphor of sanding down a rusty metal fence, and how amazing it was to invite people forward for Communion for the first time in almost exactly 2 years.
Find all of our Chapter 2 resources here.
Our final sermon in Chapter 1 "I Am Who I Am" was a look at God as love, specifically through the story of the Transfiguration found in Luke 9:28-36.
Throughout this series we have explored God as being relational, forgiving, and we conclude by emphasizing God as non only loving, but love. Seeing God as love has the ability to open our eyes, and our mind's eye, to a whole new experience... a whole new understanding of who God is and who we are in relation to God.
Find more from our unfold series at www.wrumc.org/unfold.
This week Rebecca and Phil discuss the final week of Chapter 1: I Am Who I Am. They discuss the various ways this week's worship pivoted due to the Russian invasion of Ukraine and damaging language and legislation come from politicians in Florida and Texas targeting our siblings in the LGBTQIA community.
In this episode they mention Mitchell's blog, which can be found here. They also talk about the Tiny Desk Theology interview with Dr. Donna Bowman, which can be found here. As a reminder we will have Ash Wednesday service at 12:00 and 6:00pm CST. Join us in person or on our website.
Finally, if you have any questions or comments about the "why behind the worship," email us at worship@wrumc.org.
In week three of our chapter focusing on the character and nature of God, Mitchell presented God as forgiving using Psalm 103. Last week invited to consider God as relational, this week he said God's relational nature is grounded in forgiveness.
Join us on Sunday as we will conclude Chapter 1 and get the last attribute of God we'll cover in this chapter before we move to Chapter 2.
Find more resources at www.wrumc.org/unfold
In this week’s episode of TDAS, Rebecca and Dexter discuss the diverse hymns based on Psalm 103, talk about what the pandemic may have actually changed for the better, and try to make sense of what to do with the Unfold Journal’s “Creative Page.”
Bonus conversations include Wordle starting words, and their go-to doodles during worship.
Check out more of our Unfold series here.
The February Church & Society gathering was a round table conversation discussing why every election, even (and especially) primary elections, matter in the state of Texas. Rev. Phil Dieke was joined by Stacey Brown of Elev8 Movement, Scott Atnip of Texas Impact, and Fr. Paul Klitzke of The Episcopal Church of the Ascension.
In this conversation they discuss the importance of education as well as mobilization when it comes to elections. They discuss the value and importance of getting to know your elected officials, rather making sure your elected officials know you so they know what you value and stand for.
They also discuss the importance of trusted resources in this age of dis/misinformation. The following list is not exhaustive, but a great place to start:
Election Protection in 2022: https://secure.everyaction.com/urmz7w_ZYUyrhRyZOe1Ruw2
League of Women Voters: https://www.vote411.org/
Texas Impact: https://texasimpact.org/
Faith Forward Dallas: https://www.faithforwarddallas.org/
Rev. Mitchell Boone's second sermon in Chapter 1: I Am Who I Am focused on God as relational. Last week he invited us to approach our understanding of God with humility. This week, by looking at the Parable of the Good Samaritan, he invited us to consider the character and nature of God being relational. Even suggesting this is one of the most important attributes of God, as this gets to very essence and desire of God.
As we continue to make our way through Chapter 1, let us know your thoughts on the character and nature of God.
Find more resources at www.wrumc.org/unfold
In this week's episode of The Day After Sunday Rebecca and Phil discuss the woes of livestreaming on Facebook, Rebecca's evolution on using songs in different languages during worship, and epistemology or the things we assign value to in determining how we understand things or knowledge in general.
This is definitely a "why behind the worship" as they get a bit nerdy in their conversation both of music and theology, but not without some laughs as well. In the conversation they reference books written about the Bible by Rachel Held Evans, Pete Enns, and Rob Bell. They also mention joining a Covenant Group. You can sign up for one here.
Chapter 1 of our Unfold Series is all about God. "I Am Who I Am," is a reference to Moses' encounter with God in Exodus 3. Mitchell used this text to ground us in our pursuit of exploring who God is and what God is like.
While this can feel like an overwhelming task, Mitchell invited us to approach God with humility, never claiming we can fully know God, rather being inspired by the awe of God. Likely, we will not all agree regarding our understanding of who God is, or what God is like. Nonetheless, we continue the pursuit together, in community.
Keep up with all our Unfold series resources at www.wrumc.org/unfold.
Tiny Desk Theology is an in depth theological look at a specific topic. During our Unfold series we will kick off each chapter with a Tiny Desk Theology, inviting a guest to lead us into a deep theological dive of that topic. Since Chapter 1 of Unfold is all about God, we invited the Rev. Dr. Thomas Jay Oord to join us.
In this conversation we get to the basics of who God is and what God is like, at least according to Tom and his perspective from Open & Relational Theology. We address how the understanding of God has evolved over time, what criteria we use when discussing what God is (and isn't) like, and also discuss the issue of evil (theodicy)... because you can't talk about God and not address evil in the world. As a part of that conversation, Tom introduces the idea that God Can't. Due to the unrelenting love of God, there are some things God can't do.
We hope you enjoy this conversation. If you have follow up questions or want to take part in our next Tiny Desk Theology, email Phil (pdieke@wrumc.org)
To learn more about Open & Relational Theology, visit the Center for Open & Relational Theology. Turns out, Tom is the Director!
Rebecca and Phil are joined by Mitchell to discuss our first Sunday of Chapter 1 in our Unfold series. In today's podcast they discuss the subtle nuance between performance and performative in worship, and how that varies between in-person and online worship. They also Lord of the Dance, Mitchell's sermon on Exodus 3, and what humility has to offer us as we begin this four week look at God.
In the conversation Phil references an article by Diana Butler Bass, you can find her article titled "The Mystical Body of Christ," here.
Also, follow along with all our Unfold resources, including our first Tiny Desk Theology, on our Unfold webpage.
In week two of Prologue, Rev. Mitchell Boone continued to elaborate on the power of story, this week using Jesus' healing of a blind man in John 9. Mitchell shared that much of our focus for the series of Unfold is around asking better questions rather than providing specific answers. He invited us to tap into our imagination as we heard this story in John 9. And made us ponder the relationship of time in this story specifically.
This sermon is one of many resources available as we continue to tell our collective story as a community. Find more resources on our website here.
Also, we want to hear your reflection on this week's sermon. You can share your favorite quotes, ideas, questions, or general reflections here.
In this week's episode of The Day After Sunday, Rebecca and Phil take a look back at week 2 of "Prologue." These last two weeks have been the set up weeks before we enter into the fullness of our series Unfold. We continue to reflect on the power of story, this week specifically through John 9. They reflect on Mitchell's questions posed during his sermon: 1. What does Jesus look like in this story? 2. What does Jesus sound like? 3. What is Jesus demeanor? Questions that invite us beyond the intellect and into the imagination. Imagination was a theme that ran through out worship yesterday.
As always, we welcome your questions regarding the "why behind the worship." Send us your questions at worship@wrumc.org.
Find all our resources for the Unfold series here.
For this week's Sunday Sit Down, Rev. Phil Dieke was joined by Kristi (Torkildson) Waddell, a Dallas based author. Kristi shared her perspective on the value of story telling, what makes for a good story, and where she draws her inspiration from.
Let us know what inspires you in your story telling. Email us at office@wrumc.org.
Find all of our resources for our Unfold series here.
On Sunday we kicked off the Prologue for our yearlong series "Unfold: A Year of Discovering Story." In this first sermon Rev. Mitchell Boone invited us to explore the power of story through the lens of Zacchaeus in Luke 19.
Let us know your thoughts about this week's sermon and be sure to check out www.wrumc.com for all our Unfold resources, and to request a journal if you have yet to receive one.
This Sunday will be week 2 or our Prologue, join us live beginning at 10:30am CST:
www.wrumc.org/live
In this week's episode Rebecca and Phil reflect on the power of story and why they are excited to enter into this year long series "Unfold: A Year of Discovery Story." They share the benefits and woes of being back to online only for worship, discuss the role characters play in story, and spend some time talking about Zacchaeus from Luke 19.
Let us know your questions regarding the "Why behind the worship." You can email us at worship@wrumc.org.
Also, if you have yet to receive your Unfold journal, you can request one at www.wrumc.com
In this week's Sunday Sit Down, Rev. Phil Dieke was joined by Gabrielle Schonder, Emmy Award winner from PBS Frontline and current Fellow at the Nieman Foundation for Journalism at Harvard.
As WRUMC enters into a yearlong series "Unfold: A Year of Discovering Story," Gabrielle and Phil discuss the role characters plays in a compelling story and who the characters are in the unfolding stories of our lives.
Note, if you haven't seen Disney's Encanto, you may feel shamed by Phil excessively insisting to watch this movie.
In this month's Church and Society conversation Rev. Phil Dieke was joined by Rev. Edlen Cowley, Rev. Silvia Wang, and Rev. Joshua Manning to discuss the North Texas Conference's Journey Toward Racial Justice (JTRJ). They share the history, pilot program, and current state of this movement within the Conference.
To find out more about the JTRJ visit the website here. To get involved email Rev. Silvia Wang (rev.silvia.wang@gmail.com).
You can watch this episode and previous episodes on our YouTube Playlist here.
There's just something about a wedding...
In this week's sermon Rev. Phil Dieke shared his love for weddings, Jesus' first sign/miracle that took place at a wedding (as reported in John chapter 2), and the role of Jesus' mother in this first sign/miracle. Turns out, God is here for the party!
Note: there is a lot of talk about wine in this sermon. Phil also highlights the recovery ministry at WRUMC. You can find that information at www.wrumc.org/recovery.
Let us know your thoughts on this week's sermon or if you have any questions/comments email us at office@wrumc.org.
In this week's (the day after) The Day After Sunday, Rebecca and Phill discuss a "one-off" week of worship - a Sunday that is not tied to a specific worship series. The focus of this "one-off" was the Wedding at Cana text found in John 2:1-11. Phil preached on this text, thus he shared some of his process of preaching preparation, specifically for this text and why he loves weddings.
They also spent time discuss the irony of preaching a sermon about Jesus turning water into wine in a sermon, in a United Methodist Church, where we are not allowed to have wine on church grounds. They also touch briefly on the value of recovery ministry which you can learn more about here.
There was also a bit of a "yo-yo effect" in worship on Sunday. It was a bit of an emotional rollercoaster. Rebecca and Phil talk about how that wasn't fully intentional, and yet it seemed to fit the sentiment given all that is taking place in the world.
Note: The Philip Glass piece that Faron played will be shared on our social media. Find us on Facebook or Instagram to listen to the minimalism.
As always, we want to hear from you. You can submit your questions for the "why behind the worship," by emailing us at worship@wrumc.org.
In today's Sit Down, Rev. Phil Dieke was joined by Rev. Virzola Law, Senior Minister at Northway Christian Church, and Rev. Collin Packer, Director of Faith Based Partnerships at CitySquare. Together, they serve as the co-chairs of the Task Force for Racial Equity and Justice at Faith Forward Dallas. In this conversation they talk about the history of racism in Dallas, the long process toward racial equity, the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr., and how you can get involved in the work, starting with a 21 day challenged.
To find out more about Faith Forward Dallas, visit their website here:
https://www.faithforwarddallas.org/
The text read for Baptism of the Lord Sunday was Mark 1:1-12. Rev. Mitchell Boone called attention to the reality that baptism is meant to be celebrated within the community - a celebration as a new member joins the community and we collectively affirm God's love present and at work in that individual. The irony, of course, being that worship took place online only and not being physically present to one another as we remember our baptism, challenges us in how we will be community to one another.
The beauty of remembering our baptism is whether or not we are physically together, we can continue to affirm the truth of our baptism - that we are all beloved children of God. Mitchell talked about the struggle to accept being accepted by God when we live in a culture that seeks continual affirmation. The desire for one more "like," one more "follow," one more "friend." Remembering our baptism is a way to affirm that God loves us regardless of what we do, rather simply because of who we are!
As always, we'd love to hear your thoughts about this sermon, worship, or White Rock UMC in general. You can reach out to us at office@wrumc.org.
In this week's episode, Rebecca is joined by Mitchell and Phil to discuss the beginning of a new year, our move back to online only worship, and yesterday's Baptism of the Lord Sunday.
Not only do you get the "why behind the worship" today, you also get hot takes on the Top 5 "Sundays," why John the Baptist is Top 5 strangest characters in the Bible, and the importance of setting and context when it comes to the Mark 1:1-12 text and beyond.
Big news in this episode, we received our first listener question and respond to it. You can ask your "why behind the worship" questions by emailing us at worship@wrumc.org.
With worshiping moving back to online only, the Sunday Sit Down is back!
In this episode Rev. Phil Dieke and Rev. Mitchell Boone discuss the decision to move worship back to online only. It is also Baptism of the Lord Sunday so they discuss the important role baptism plays in the United Methodist Church, White Rock UMC specifically, and the unique aspects of baptism in the UMC.
Each week WRUMC is worshiping online only we will have the Sunday Sit Down. Join us live at 10:30am on Facebook, YouTube, or wrumc.org/live. Or you can always find the Sit Down here on our podcast channel.
Rev. Keith Boone shared our first sermon of 2022, an Epiphany sermon. At Epiphany we celebrate that the Good News of Christ is not reserved for just a small group of people in the Middle East, rather an all-inclusive, all-encompassing message of God's love made known in the person of Jesus the Christ.
Spoiler alert: Keith shares some difficult news about your nativity set!
You can watch this week's sermon on our YouTube Channel here:
https://youtu.be/2-uoIasEmwk
Rev. Mitchell Boone preach from Luke 2:15-20 for our 2021 Christmas Eve worship service. He called attention to the chaotic scene, not only in the text, but also in our lives. That too often the Christmas season feels like something we have to get through rather than something we celebrate... much less Good News.
In the midst of all the chaos and the tension, Mitchell also turned us to hope. Hope in the midst of the chaos and reminded us that Good News is indeed Good News for all. Even a poor, unwed, pregnant woman some two thousand years ago... even you, here and now.
You can watch this Christmas Eve service on our YouTube Channel here:
https://youtu.be/3KbMfvOm82M
Today is Saturday December 25, 2021. MERRY CHRISTMAS!
Our text for this morning is John 1:1-14:
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 He was in the beginning with God. 3 All things came into being through him, and without him not one thing came into being. What has come into being 4 in him was life, and the life was the light of all people. 5 The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not overcome it.
6 There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. 7 He came as a witness to testify to the light, so that all might believe through him. 8 He himself was not the light, but he came to testify to the light. 9 The true light, which enlightens everyone, was coming into the world.
10 He was in the world, and the world came into being through him; yet the world did not know him. 11 He came to what was his own, and his own people did not accept him. 12 But to all who received him, who believed in his name, he gave power to become children of God, 13 who were born, not of blood or of the will of the flesh or of the will of man, but of God.
14 And the Word became flesh and lived among us, and we have seen his glory, the glory as of a father’s only son, full of grace and truth.
How might the joy of today extend beyond this Christmas season? What might you need to do to ensure this feeling of hope, peace, love and joy lives and reigns daily in your life?
Today is Friday December 24, 2021. Merry Christmas Eve!
Our text for today is Luke 2:1-14:
In those days a decree went out from Emperor Augustus that all the world should be registered. 2 This was the first registration and was taken while Quirinius was governor of Syria. 3 All went to their own towns to be registered. 4 Joseph also went from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to the city of David called Bethlehem, because he was descended from the house and family of David. 5 He went to be registered with Mary, to whom he was engaged and who was expecting a child. 6 While they were there, the time came for her to deliver her child. 7 And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in bands of cloth, and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn.
8 In that region there were shepherds living in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. 9 Then an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. 10 But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid; for see—I am bringing you good news of great joy for all the people: 11 to you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is the Messiah, the Lord. 12 This will be a sign for you: you will find a child wrapped in bands of cloth and lying in a manger.” 13 And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host, praising God and saying,
14 “Glory to God in the highest heaven,
and on earth peace among those whom he favors!”
On this Christmas Eve, what emotions are you feeling? How does the birth of Christ bring about new life for you this Christmas?
We'd love for you to join us today for Christmas Eve worship. Join us at 6:00pm or 11:00pm CST, in-person (1450 Old Gate Ln. Dallas, TX) or streaming live on Facebook and YouTube.
May your days be merry and bright.
Today is Thursday December 23, 2021.
Our text for today is 2 Peter 1:16-21:
16For we did not follow cleverly devised myths when we made known to you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but we had been eyewitnesses of his majesty. 17For he received honor and glory from God the Father when that voice was conveyed to him by the Majestic Glory, saying, “This is my Son, my Beloved, with whom I am well pleased.” 18We ourselves heard this voice come from heaven, while we were with him on the holy mountain.
19So we have the prophetic message more fully confirmed. You will do well to be attentive to this as to a lamp shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts. 20First of all you must understand this, that no prophecy of scripture is a matter of one’s own interpretation, 21because no prophecy ever came by human will, but men and women moved by the Holy Spirit spoke from God.
What stories in your life were so impactful that you still share them, even years later? What made them so meaningful?
We would love for you to join us for Christmas Eve worship. We have services at 6:00pm and 11:00pm CST. Join us in-person or streaming on Facebook and YouTube. Find all the information you need here.
The Fourth Sunday of Advent is all about love, and what better way to celebrate love than reading Mary's Song, known as the Magnificat. Rev. Mitchell Boone invites us to think through the absurdity Mary's Song found in Luke 1:36-55. A text that flips the world upside down, a text that delivers the Good News of our redemption not from the mouths of emperors or priests, but two pregnant women.
This is a powerful text and a beautiful sermon. We'd love to hear your thoughts on Mary's Song!
You can watch this week's sermon on our YouTube Channel here:
https://youtu.be/QR1bppROA5c
Join us for Christmas Eve Worship at 6:00pm and 11:00pm CST. If you are in the Dallas area, join us in the sanctuary of 1450 Old Gate Ln, Dallas, TX. Or, you can join us via live stream on Facebook or YouTube. Find all our Christmas info by clicking here.
Today is Wednesday December 22, 2021.
Our text for today is Psalm 97:
1 The Lord is king! Let the earth rejoice;
let the many coastlands be glad!
2 Clouds and thick darkness are all around him;
righteousness and justice are the foundation of his throne.
3 Fire goes before him,
and consumes his adversaries on every side.
4 His lightnings light up the world;
the earth sees and trembles.
5 The mountains melt like wax before the Lord,
before the Lord of all the earth.
6 The heavens proclaim his righteousness;
and all the peoples behold his glory.
7 All worshipers of images are put to shame,
those who make their boast in worthless idols;
all gods bow down before him.
8 Zion hears and is glad,
and the towns of Judah rejoice,
because of your judgments, O God.
9 For you, O Lord, are most high over all the earth;
you are exalted far above all gods.
10 The Lord loves those who hate evil;
he guards the lives of his faithful;
he rescues them from the hand of the wicked.
11 Light dawns for the righteous,
and joy for the upright in heart.
12 Rejoice in the Lord, O you righteous,
and give thanks to his holy name!
"How do you see God's glory on display in your life?
And what does it mean that God shows up not through power but poverty?"
Today is Tuesday December 21, 2021.
Our text for today is Titus 2:11-14:
11For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation to all, 12training us to renounce impiety and worldly passions, and in the present age to live lives that are self-controlled, upright, and godly, 13while we wait for the blessed hope and the manifestation of the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ. 14He it is who gave himself for us that he might redeem us from all iniquity and purify for himself a people of his own who are zealous for good deeds.
"How do you experience the grace of God? As you have journeyed through Advent, how has God shown up to you and for you?"
In this final episode for 2021, Rebecca, Mitchell, and Phil discuss the fourth and final Sunday of Advent. They talk about traditions of the church and how kid decorated ornaments have been a hit; potential fundraisers for "Merry Christmas, You Brood of Vipers;" the need to slow down and turn down the noise in a season when everything is so fast and loud; and many other fun things. Warning, if you are a fan of the bagpipes, some of the content may be offensive to you (just kidding... kind of).
We have loved the opportunity to talk about the Why Behind the Worship in 2021. As we move into 2022, we want to hear from you. What questions do you have about worship, and specifically the why behind the worship. Let us know by emailing worship@wrumc.org.
We're going to take a break for two weeks. The Day After Sunday will be back Monday, January 10th. We hope to see you for Christmas Eve worship either online or in person. Details for Christmas Eve worship can be found here.
Wishing you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
Today is Monday December 20, 2021.
Our text for today is Luke 1:46b-55:
46And Mary said,
“My soul magnifies the Lord,
47and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior,
48for he has looked with favor on the lowliness of his servant.
Surely, from now on all generations will call me blessed;
49for the Mighty One has done great things for me,
and holy is his name.
50His mercy is for those who fear him
from generation to generation.
51He has shown strength with his arm;
he has scattered the proud in the thoughts of their hearts.
52He has brought down the powerful from their thrones,
and lifted up the lowly;
53he has filled the hungry with good things,
and sent the rich away empty.
54He has helped his servant Israel,
in remembrance of his mercy,
55according to the promise he made to our ancestors,
to Abraham and to his descendants forever.”
"Have you ever felt like Mary describes feeling in this passage - blessed and humbled to be part of something much greater than yourself? Reflect on that experience and what it taught you."
Today is Sunday December 19, 2021. The Fourth Sunday in Advent!
Our text for today is Hebrews 10:5-10:
5Consequently, when Christ came into the world, he said,
“Sacrifices and offerings you have not desired,
but a body you have prepared for me;
6in burnt offerings and sin offerings
you have taken no pleasure.
7Then I said, ‘See, God, I have come to do your will, O God’
(in the scroll of the book it is written of me).”
8When he said above, “You have neither desired nor taken pleasure in sacrifices and offerings and burnt offerings and sin offerings” (these are offered according to the law), 9then he added, “See, I have come to do your will.” He abolishes the first in order to establish the second. 10And it is by God’s will that we have been sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.
Do you think that Jesus showing up is a sign that God needs a reset or is it something else?
Today is Saturday December 18, 2021.
Our text for today is Luke 13:31-35:
31At that very hour some Pharisees came and said to him, “Get away from here, for Herod wants to kill you.” 32He said to them, “Go and tell that fox for me, ‘Listen, I am casting out demons and performing cures today and tomorrow, and on the third day I finish my work. 33Yet today, tomorrow, and the next day I must be on my way, because it is impossible for a prophet to be killed outside of Jerusalem.’ 34Jerusalem, Jerusalem, the city that kills the prophets and stones those who are sent to it! How often have I desired to gather your children together as a hen gathers her brood under her wings, and you were not willing! 35See, your house is left to you. And I tell you, you will not see me until the time comes when you say, ‘Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord.’”
Are you feeling overwhelmed with all you have to do this holiday season? What is a practice or discipline you can do that will keep you focused on your purpose? What is your purpose right now, today?
Today is Friday December 17, 2021.
Our text for today is Isaiah 42:10-18:
10 Sing to the Lord a new song,
his praise from the end of the earth!
Let the sea roar and all that fills it,
the coastlands and their inhabitants.
11 Let the desert and its towns lift up their voice,
the villages that Kedar inhabits;
let the inhabitants of Sela sing for joy,
let them shout from the tops of the mountains.
12 Let them give glory to the Lord,
and declare his praise in the coastlands.
13 The Lord goes forth like a soldier,
like a warrior he stirs up his fury;
he cries out, he shouts aloud,
he shows himself mighty against his foes.
14 For a long time I have held my peace,
I have kept still and restrained myself;
now I will cry out like a woman in labor,
I will gasp and pant.
15 I will lay waste mountains and hills,
and dry up all their herbage;
I will turn the rivers into islands,
and dry up the pools.
16 I will lead the blind
by a road they do not know,
by paths they have not known
I will guide them.
I will turn the darkness before them into light,
the rough places into level ground.
These are the things I will do,
and I will not forsake them.
17 They shall be turned back and utterly put to shame—
those who trust in carved images,
who say to cast images,
“You are our gods.”
18 Listen, you that are deaf;
and you that are blind, look up and see!
"So here's my unique summary of this passage... huh?"
What passages in the bible make you go "huh?" What might we we miss when we try to categorize every scripture as either "joyful" or "lament," as either "good" or "troubling"?
Rev. Lisa Garvin joined Rev. Phil Dieke for our December gathering of Church and Society. Lisa is the Chaplain and Minister to the Southern Methodist University (SMU) campus. She also serves on the board of the General Board of Church and Society (GBCS).
In their conversation Lisa and Phil discuss the importance of Church and Society as the advocacy/justice branch of the United Methodist Church. Lisa shares how her role works not only with individuals, but also the institution as a whole seeking to transform individuals while also making systemic changes.
See below for links to a variety of resources that are referenced throughout the conversation.
GBCS webinar links:
“Envisioning a Just Transition Panel Discussion” (12/9/2021)
“EN-Roads Climate Interactive Workshop” (12/9/2021)
“Indigenous Climate and Water Justice” (12/8/2021)
“Climate Change and Front-Line Communities" (12/8/2021)
“Theological Reflection on Climate Justice” (12/7/2021)
“Climate Justice as a Global Movement” (12/6/2021)
Michael Pollan's book "This is Your Mind on Plants"
Nicolle Wallace Trilogy
Jame's Hollis' book "Living an Examined Life"
To catch up on previous episodes of our Church and Society, check out our YouTube Playlist.
Today is Thursday December 15, 2021.
Our text for today is Luke 13:31-35:
31At that very hour some Pharisees came and said to him, “Get away from here, for Herod wants to kill you.” 32He said to them, “Go and tell that fox for me, ‘Listen, I am casting out demons and performing cures today and tomorrow, and on the third day I finish my work. 33Yet today, tomorrow, and the next day I must be on my way, because it is impossible for a prophet to be killed outside of Jerusalem.’ 34Jerusalem, Jerusalem, the city that kills the prophets and stones those who are sent to it! How often have I desired to gather your children together as a hen gathers her brood under her wings, and you were not willing! 35See, your house is left to you. And I tell you, you will not see me until the time comes when you say, ‘Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord.’”
"How are we listening to God this season, and how can we remain committed to the good news of Jesus this Christmas?"
The theme for the Third Sunday of Advent is joy. Rev Mitchell Boone preached from Philippians 4:1-14 and Paul's instruction to "Rejoice in the Lord always." Mitchell discussed the difference between happiness and joy, specifically that happiness is something we pursue, something that is fleet, while joy is a state of being.
How are you experiencing joy this Advent season?
You can watch this week's sermon (and watch Mitchell dodge the wasp attack) on our YouTube Channel here:
https://youtu.be/VB5ON0RRkoQ
Today is Wednesday December 15, 2021.
Our text for today is Psalm 80:1-7:
1Give ear, O Shepherd of Israel,
you who lead Joseph like a flock!
You who are enthroned upon the cherubim, shine forth
2before Ephraim and Benjamin and Manasseh.
Stir up your might,
and come to save us!
3Restore us, O God;
let your face shine, that we may be saved.
4O Lord God of hosts,
how long will you be angry with your people’s prayers?
5You have fed them with the bread of tears,
and given them tears to drink in full measure.
6You make us the scorn[a] of our neighbors;
our enemies laugh among themselves.
7Restore us, O God of hosts;
let your face shine, that we may be saved.
Do you enjoy reading the Psalms? Do you resonate with the Psalmists plea in today's text?
Today is Tuesday December 14, 2021.
Our text for today is Isaiah 11:1-9
A shoot shall come out from the stump of Jesse,
and a branch shall grow out of his roots.
2 The spirit of the Lord shall rest on him,
the spirit of wisdom and understanding,
the spirit of counsel and might,
the spirit of knowledge and the fear of the Lord.
3 His delight shall be in the fear of the Lord.
He shall not judge by what his eyes see,
or decide by what his ears hear;
4 but with righteousness he shall judge the poor,
and decide with equity for the meek of the earth;
he shall strike the earth with the rod of his mouth,
and with the breath of his lips he shall kill the wicked.
5 Righteousness shall be the belt around his waist,
and faithfulness the belt around his loins.
6 The wolf shall live with the lamb,
the leopard shall lie down with the kid,
the calf and the lion and the fatling together,
and a little child shall lead them.
7 The cow and the bear shall graze,
their young shall lie down together;
and the lion shall eat straw like the ox.
8 The nursing child shall play over the hole of the asp,
and the weaned child shall put its hand on the adder’s den.
9 They will not hurt or destroy
on all my holy mountain;
for the earth will be full of the knowledge of the Lord
as the waters cover the sea.
"Take a few moments and picture this peaceful world Isaiah paints. What sounds do you hear? Are there flowers blooming? What moments of harmony surround you?"
In this week's episode, Rebecca and Phil break down the Third Sunday of Advent. Joy was the theme of the day, as was expressed through the sermon, hymns, and liturgies. They discuss joy vs happiness, poinsettias, wasp attacks, and Rebecca's process of creating liturgy.
As always, you can let us know what questions you have about the "why behind the worship," by emailing us:
worship@wrumc.org
Today is December 13, 2021.
Our text for today is Romans 15:4-13:
4 For whatever was written in former days was written for our instruction, so that by steadfastness and by the encouragement of the scriptures we might have hope. 5 May the God of steadfastness and encouragement grant you to live in harmony with one another, in accordance with Christ Jesus, 6 so that together you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.
7 Welcome one another, therefore, just as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God. 8 For I tell you that Christ has become a servant of the circumcised on behalf of the truth of God in order that he might confirm the promises given to the patriarchs, 9 and in order that the Gentiles might glorify God for his mercy. As it is written,
“Therefore I will confess you among the Gentiles,
and sing praises to your name”;
10 and again he says,
“Rejoice, O Gentiles, with his people”;
11 and again,
“Praise the Lord, all you Gentiles,
and let all the peoples praise him”;
12 and again Isaiah says,
“The root of Jesse shall come,
the one who rises to rule the Gentiles;
in him the Gentiles shall hope.”
13 May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.
Here is the question for us today, how have you seen the HS moving this advent season and are you like Paul says "overflowing with hope".
Today is Sunday December 12, 2021.
Our text for today is Luke 3:7-18:
7 John said to the crowds that came out to be baptized by him, “You brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the wrath to come? 8 Bear fruits worthy of repentance. Do not begin to say to yourselves, ‘We have Abraham as our ancestor’; for I tell you, God is able from these stones to raise up children to Abraham. 9 Even now the ax is lying at the root of the trees; every tree therefore that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire.”
10 And the crowds asked him, “What then should we do?” 11 In reply he said to them, “Whoever has two coats must share with anyone who has none; and whoever has food must do likewise.” 12 Even tax collectors came to be baptized, and they asked him, “Teacher, what should we do?” 13 He said to them, “Collect no more than the amount prescribed for you.” 14 Soldiers also asked him, “And we, what should we do?” He said to them, “Do not extort money from anyone by threats or false accusation, and be satisfied with your wages.”
15 As the people were filled with expectation, and all were questioning in their hearts concerning John, whether he might be the Messiah, 16 John answered all of them by saying, “I baptize you with water; but one who is more powerful than I is coming; I am not worthy to untie the thong of his sandals. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire. 17 His winnowing fork is in his hand, to clear his threshing floor and to gather the wheat into his granary; but the chaff he will burn with unquenchable fire.”
18 So, with many other exhortations, he proclaimed the good news to the people.
How is this Good News for all, not just those in need?
Today is Saturday December 11, 2021.
Our text for today is Isaiah 12:2-6:
2Surely God is my salvation;
I will trust, and will not be afraid,
for the Lord God is my strength and my might;
he has become my salvation.
3With joy you will draw water from the wells of salvation. 4And you will say in that day:
Give thanks to the Lord,
call on his name;
make known his deeds among the nations;
proclaim that his name is exalted.
5Sing praises to the Lord, for he has done gloriously;
let this be known in all the earth.
6Shout aloud and sing for joy, O royal Zion,
for great in your midst is the Holy One of Israel.
Pause for a few moments today and list five things you are thankful for. They can be big, small, or in between. Maybe even share those things with a friend, and ask them what makes them thankful, too.
Today is Friday, December 10, 2021
Our text for today is Amos 8:4-12:
4 Hear this, you that trample on the needy,
and bring to ruin the poor of the land,
5 saying, “When will the new moon be over
so that we may sell grain;
and the sabbath,
so that we may offer wheat for sale?
We will make the ephah small and the shekel great,
and practice deceit with false balances,
6 buying the poor for silver
and the needy for a pair of sandals,
and selling the sweepings of the wheat.”
7 The Lord has sworn by the pride of Jacob:
Surely I will never forget any of their deeds.
8 Shall not the land tremble on this account,
and everyone mourn who lives in it,
and all of it rise like the Nile,
and be tossed about and sink again, like the Nile of Egypt?
9 On that day, says the Lord God,
I will make the sun go down at noon,
and darken the earth in broad daylight.
10 I will turn your feasts into mourning,
and all your songs into lamentation;
I will bring sackcloth on all loins,
and baldness on every head;
I will make it like the mourning for an only son,
and the end of it like a bitter day.
11 The time is surely coming, says the Lord God,
when I will send a famine on the land;
not a famine of bread, or a thirst for water,
but of hearing the words of the Lord.
12 They shall wander from sea to sea,
and from north to east;
they shall run to and fro, seeking the word of the Lord,
but they shall not find it.
How does God showing up in the world bring about real change?
Today is Thursday December 9, 2021.
Our text for today is 2 Corinthians 8:8-15:
8 I do not say this as a command, but I am testing the genuineness of your love against the earnestness of others. 9 For you know the generous act of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, so that by his poverty you might become rich. 10 And in this matter I am giving my advice: it is appropriate for you who began last year not only to do something but even to desire to do something— 11 now finish doing it, so that your eagerness may be matched by completing it according to your means. 12 For if the eagerness is there, the gift is acceptable according to what one has—not according to what one does not have. 13 I do not mean that there should be relief for others and pressure on you, but it is a question of a fair balance between 14 your present abundance and their need, so that their abundance may be for your need, in order that there may be a fair balance. 15 As it is written,
“The one who had much did not have too much,
and the one who had little did not have too little.”
Fair balance. This is the gift of community. Your abundance is balanced by my need all while my abundance is balanced by your need. Fair. Balance.
Is fair balance what you experience in your community? How do you battle the excessive consumerism so often present during the holiday season?
The theme for the second week of Advent is Peace. Rev. Mitchell Boone explored peace through the lens of Luke 3:2-16, specifically John the Baptist in the wilderness baptizing people and calling people to live lives of compassion and generosity. John uses harsh language to get the attention of all present, and pushes them to not trust the ways of the empire, but the ways of love and peace. Mitchell reminds us that peace is not just the absence of conflict, but a holistic experience of those who live in shalom - the peace of God.
Note, Mitchell is still excited to get his "brood of vipers" pillow.
You can watch this week's sermon on our YouTube channel here:
https://youtu.be/FK71uSKIhJI
Today is Wednesday December 8, 2021.
Our text for today is Isaiah 35:3-7:
Strengthen the weak hands,
and make firm the feeble knees.
4Say to those who are of a fearful heart,
“Be strong, do not fear!
Here is your God.
He will come with vengeance,
with terrible recompense.
He will come and save you.”
5Then the eyes of the blind shall be opened,
and the ears of the deaf unstopped;
6then the lame shall leap like a deer,
and the tongue of the speechless sing for joy.
For waters shall break forth in the wilderness,
and streams in the desert;
7the burning sand shall become a pool,
and the thirsty ground springs of water;
the haunt of jackals shall become a swamp,
the grass shall become reeds and rushes.
"This passage paints word pictures of lush, beautiful healing in God's reign."
Are there passages of scripture that make songs start playing in your head?
How does music sometimes very literally "accompany" our scripture practices?
Today is Tuesday December 7, 2021.
Our text for today is Psalm 126:
1When the Lord restored the fortunes of Zion,
we were like those who dream.
2Then our mouth was filled with laughter,
and our tongue with shouts of joy;
then it was said among the nations,
“The Lord has done great things for them.”
3The Lord has done great things for us,
and we rejoiced.
4Restore our fortunes, O Lord,
like the watercourses in the Negeb.
5May those who sow in tears
reap with shouts of joy.
6Those who go out weeping,
bearing the seed for sowing,
shall come home with shouts of joy,
carrying their sheaves.
What dreams are you dreaming this season? What tears are you shedding? And how can you experience Joy this advent season?
In today's episode Rebecca is joined by Rev. Phil Dieke and Dexter Evans. Dexter is the man that makes all the magic happen behind the scenes. In this conversation you'll hear the many hats Dexter wears on a Sunday morning, as well as his history with both church and technology.
A bit of a warning, Rebecca had some internet issues and Phil was recording from home with a sick kid. Our apologies for the hiccups, but as discussed in this episode, it's not about perfection rather trying things and being willing to make mistakes.
As always, we'd love to hear your thoughts on the "why behind the worship." Email us with your questions or comments at worship@wrumc.org.
Today is Monday December 6, 2021.
Our text for today is Romans 8:22-25:
22We know that the whole creation has been groaning in labor pains until now; 23and not only the creation, but we ourselves, who have the first fruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly while we wait for adoption, the redemption of our bodies. 24For in hope we were saved. Now hope that is seen is not hope. For who hopes for what is seen? 25But if we hope for what we do not see, we wait for it with patience.
Where do you see new life emerging? What is the pain experienced in the birthing of this new life?
Today is Sunday December 5, 2021.
Our text for today is Malachi 3:1-7:
See, I am sending my messenger to prepare the way before me, and the Lord whom you seek will suddenly come to his temple. The messenger of the covenant in whom you delight—indeed, he is coming, says the Lord of hosts. 2 But who can endure the day of his coming, and who can stand when he appears?
For he is like a refiner’s fire and like fullers’ soap; 3 he will sit as a refiner and purifier of silver, and he will purify the descendants of Levi and refine them like gold and silver, until they present offerings to the Lord in righteousness. 4 Then the offering of Judah and Jerusalem will be pleasing to the Lord as in the days of old and as in former years.
5 Then I will draw near to you for judgment; I will be swift to bear witness against the sorcerers, against the adulterers, against those who swear falsely, against those who oppress the hired workers in their wages, the widow and the orphan, against those who thrust aside the alien, and do not fear me, says the Lord of hosts.
6 For I the Lord do not change; therefore you, O children of Jacob, have not perished. 7 Ever since the days of your ancestors you have turned aside from my statutes and have not kept them. Return to me, and I will return to you, says the Lord of hosts. But you say, “How shall we return?”
"If we take this passage seriously, we come face to face with the fact that there are things in our lives and in our world that need refining."
What needs cleaning out and cleaning up in our lives in order for us to make space for the Messiah?
Today is Saturday December 4, 2021.
Our text for today is Luke 9:1-6:
Then Jesus called the twelve together and gave them power and authority over all demons and to cure diseases, 2and he sent them out to proclaim the kingdom of God and to heal. 3He said to them, “Take nothing for your journey, no staff, nor bag, nor bread, nor money—not even an extra tunic. 4Whatever house you enter, stay there, and leave from there. 5Wherever they do not welcome you, as you are leaving that town shake the dust off your feet as a testimony against them.” 6They departed and went through the villages, bringing the good news and curing diseases everywhere.
What would this Christmas season be like if we divested from the over, commercialized season of extravagant gift giving? Do we need more or less stuff with us as we journey to Bethlehem?
Today is Friday December 3, 2021.
Our text for today is Philippians 1:18b-26:
18What does it matter? Just this, that Christ is proclaimed in every way, whether out of false motives or true; and in that I rejoice.
Yes, and I will continue to rejoice, 19for I know that through your prayers and the help of the Spirit of Jesus Christ this will turn out for my deliverance. 20It is my eager expectation and hope that I will not be put to shame in any way, but that by my speaking with all boldness, Christ will be exalted now as always in my body, whether by life or by death. 21For to me, living is Christ and dying is gain. 22If I am to live in the flesh, that means fruitful labor for me; and I do not know which I prefer. 23I am hard pressed between the two: my desire is to depart and be with Christ, for that is far better; 24but to remain in the flesh is more necessary for you. 25Since I am convinced of this, I know that I will remain and continue with all of you for your progress and joy in faith, 26so that I may share abundantly in your boasting in Christ Jesus when I come to you again.
Question:
How is it with your soul? How is it with your body? How is it with your mind?
Today is Thursday, December 2, 2021.
Our text for today is Luke 1:68-79:
68 “Blessed be the Lord God of Israel,
for he has looked favorably on his people and redeemed them.
69 He has raised up a mighty savior for us
in the house of his servant David,
70 as he spoke through the mouth of his holy prophets from of old,
71 that we would be saved from our enemies and from the hand of all who hate us.
72 Thus he has shown the mercy promised to our ancestors,
and has remembered his holy covenant,
73 the oath that he swore to our ancestor Abraham,
to grant us 74 that we, being rescued from the hands of our enemies,
might serve him without fear, 75 in holiness and righteousness
before him all our days.
76 And you, child, will be called the prophet of the Most High;
for you will go before the Lord to prepare his ways,
77 to give knowledge of salvation to his people
by the forgiveness of their sins.
78 By the tender mercy of our God,
the dawn from on high will break upon us,
79 to give light to those who sit in darkness and in the shadow of death,
to guide our feet into the way of peace.”
If you could pray a blessing or prophecy over someone, what would you say? How would you invite God's amazing grace into that person's life?
Rev. Phil Dieke kicked off Advent and our new worship series, "O Come Emmanuel: Experiencing God Among Us." The theme for week one of Advent is Hope. Phil discusses his complicated relationship with hope, specifically hope in relationship to fear. This complicated relationship ties into the scripture reading for week one of Advent, Luke 21:25-36 - an apocalyptic text.
Let us know what you think about hope, fear, and their relationship to time!
You can watch this week's sermon on our YouTube Channel here:
https://youtu.be/JNJpyR5xS6g
Today is Wednesday, December 1, 20201.
Our text for today is Luke 11:29-32:
29When the crowds were increasing, he began to say, “This generation is an evil generation; it asks for a sign, but no sign will be given to it except the sign of Jonah. 30For just as Jonah became a sign to the people of Nineveh, so the Son of Man will be to this generation. 31The queen of the South will rise at the judgment with the people of this generation and condemn them, because she came from the ends of the earth to listen to the wisdom of Solomon, and see, something greater than Solomon is here! 32The people of Nineveh will rise up at the judgment with this generation and condemn it, because they repented at the proclamation of Jonah, and see, something greater than Jonah is here!
During a season of sharing, what part of God's story are you willing to share with others? How might you invite people to come and see this thing that is taking place?
Today is Tuesday, November 30, 2021.
Our text for this morning is Revelation 22:12-16:
12“See, I am coming soon; my reward is with me, to repay according to everyone’s work. 13I am the Alpha and the Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the end.”
14Blessed are those who wash their robes, so that they will have the right to the tree of life and may enter the city by the gates. 15Outside are the dogs and sorcerers and fornicators and murderers and idolaters, and everyone who loves and practices falsehood.
16“It is I, Jesus, who sent my angel to you with this testimony for the churches. I am the root and the descendant of David, the bright morning star.”
As we enter this season of Advent, what are you hoping for? Take a few moments today to practice deep breathing and pay attention to the tension in your body. How might you seek salvation during the season of Advent?
Mitchell joins Rebecca and Phil again to discuss the first Sunday of Advent, and the first week of our series "O Come Emmanuel: Experiencing God Among Us." They discuss the history of the hymn O Come Emmanuel and the various ways it was used throughout worship, the use of candles and various aspects of liturgy and the liturgical calendar, and this complicated notion of hope in relationship to fear.
Let us know your thoughts about this week's worship or anything discussed in this week's podcast. We always love to hear from you.
You can watch this week's episode on our YouTube Channel here:
https://youtu.be/14vxIPodxwY
Today is Monday, November 29, 2021
Our text for this morning is 2 Peter 3:14-18.
Reflect on what things (or people) in your life try your patience, make you frustrated, or aggravate your search for God's peace. How might you practice patience and peace, as the author encourages us?
Join us throughout the Advent Season for a daily scripture reading, reflection, and question(s) to ponder.
Day 1: Luke 21:25-36
What are you waiting for this year?
We finished our study on the parables with a tough one. Rev. Mitchell Boone preached on Matthew 13:24-30, 36-43, a parable that tells us either Jesus was a terrible farmer, or is communicating something way deeper than farming - something that seems so ludicrous to the common senses. Quite possibly, Jesus is teaching something so radical in this parable it will offend those who believe to be "in the know."
The parables continue to confuse, confound, and more than anything challenge us! Let us know your thoughts about this parable, or any of the parables we've studied together.
You can watch this week's sermon on our YouTube Channel here:
https://youtu.be/8V4hbFIA078
For this month's gathering we were joined by Rev. Laura Kigweba James of the General Board of Church and Society and Rev. Mel Caraway, retired clergy from the North Texas Conference. Both Laura and Mel attended COP26 and were willing to share their experience, both the frustrations and the hopes.
We grounded our work in the UMC Book of Discipline, Social Principle Paragraph 160:
https://www.umcjustice.org/who-we-are/social-principles-and-resolutions/the-natural-world-160/the-natural-world-global-climate-stewardship-160-d
And the Book of Resolutions #1035:
https://www.umcjustice.org/who-we-are/social-principles-and-resolutions/climate-change-and-the-church-s-response-1035
There were a multitude of links shared during our conversation. Here are some of those links:
Action opportunities from the General Board of Church & Society:
https://www.umcjustice.org/what-you-can-do/advocacy/take-action
The upcoming Climate Webinar through GBC&S:
https://www.umcjustice.org/articles/climate-community-a-faithful-action-to-climate-justice-1464
The Glasgow Climate Pact from COP26:
https://www.washingtonpost.com/climate-environment/interactive/2021/glasgow-climate-pact-full-text-cop26/
The work of the World Methodist Council:
https://worldmethodistcouncil.org/who-we-are/
The Carbon Buddy Project: https://www.carbonbuddyproject.org/
If you have further questions, contact Rev. Laura:
lkjames@umcjustice.org
or Rev. Mel:
mel.caraway@sbcglobal.net
Throughout the year when we have not been in a specific worship series we have been turning to the parables of Jesus. This week, Rev. Mitchell Boone looked at the Parable of the Lost Sheep and The Lost Coin in Luke 15:1-10.
Mitchell highlighted the absurdity of these parables, calling us to question the dichotomy presented in Luke's Gospel between sinners and righteous people. Often we associate "lost" with sinner, yet maybe the righteous need to figure out what is lost in their (our?) lives as well.
As always, the Parables challenge us to think, and re-think, that which we assume to be common knowledge and conventional wisdom. Let us know how these two parables influence your understanding.
You can watch this week's sermon on our YouTube Channel here:
https://youtu.be/Ll4UgyRtaWk
That's right, in today's episode Rebecca eloquently uses the word kaleidoscopic in our discussion of the parables. In worship yesterday we focused on the Parable of the Lost Sheep and the Lost Coin, two parables that are often viewed as "appetizers" to the Parable of the Prodigal Son. Rebecca and Phil also breakdown the disaster that was children's time... turns out not all kids are fooled by magic tricks. And they discuss the multitude of instruments that were used during worship yesterday. The musical talent in this congregation truly is remarkable!
If you missed worship this week, you can find it on our YouTube Channel here:
https://youtu.be/uq0iPkykmy4
And, if you have questions about the why behind the worship, email us at worship@wrumc.org.
Rev. Keith Boone preached this year's All Saints Sermon. Through baseball analogies, the Hockey Pockey, and lots of great energy Keith reminded us that we are holy because God made you holy and you too can be a saint in the making. Not everybody will be a "baseball card hero" saint, but we can all be saints in the making.
This week's message was part of a greater tribute to those who have passed on during the last year. It is always an honor to celebrate their lives while also collectively mourn those whom we have lost.
You can watch this week's sermon on our YouTube channel here:
https://youtu.be/ypjpnwWXHYM
In today's episode, Rebecca and Phil reflect on a beautiful All Saints Sunday. If you have ever worshiped with White Rock UMC for All Saints Sunday you know this is a very important Sunday in the life of our church. We had the opportunity to honor 28 people who have passed over the last year. Some were members of our church, some were active participants, others have never worshiped with us but are important in the life of the people who do worship with us, thus we honor their life and their legacy.
Rebecca and Phil talked through the use of the song "Remember Me," from the movie Coco during Children's Time. Why the clergy were in stoles yesterday, why there were different stoles, and the significance of the different colors used throughout the liturgical seasons. They discuss song arrangements, the definition of the word "pericope," and Keith's enthusiastic sermon that included the Hokey Pokey!
If you have questions regarding the "why behind the worship," email us at worship@wrumc.org. We'd love to hear from you.
If you missed this week's worship you can find it on our YouTube channel here:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLBQbmfyoOJWdTS9InrFQnyhq-YHD0m18h
Rev. Mitchell Boone concluded our worship series "The Good Life: Living into Generosity," by addressing how generosity sparks joy. He preached from 2 Corinthians 9:11-15, highlighting Paul's call to generosity.
This week Mitchell reminded us we are created to give, we are not created to hoard. That generosity is something God wants for us, not something God wants from us. Generosity indeed sparks joy and the more we practice it, the bigger impact we have on others, and ourselves. And often, it is fear that overwhelms us and prevents us from experiencing this joy.
Mitchell's invitation to practice generosity is not something you have to do on your own. Our financial giving is often deeply personal, however the practice of generosity is something we do as a community. We hope that has come across through this worship series and we thank you for all the ways you express your generosity in and through this community.
If you would like to make a pledge to our 2022 budget. You can do so at www.wrumc.org/2022.
You can watch this week's sermon on our YouTube Channel here:
https://youtu.be/kjJ3H3REdRw
Rebecca and Phil discuss the why behind the worship in our final week of the series "The Good Life: Living into Generosity." They discuss the idea of practice and why they love Mitchell's emphasis on generosity being a continual practice. They also dive deeper into the story of the Widow's Mite and share their affection for Mark Miller, John Thornburb, and all things creative.
Though our situations have not led to all happiness right now, there is indeed joy in this episode. We hope you feel it and experience it as well.
Remember you can ask your questions about the why behind the worship by emailing worship@wrumc.org.
And, if you'd like to join this year's generosity campaign, you can make a pledge to the 2022 budget at www.wrumc.org/2022.
In the third week of our series Rev. Mitchell Boone looked at the impact of generosity through the lens of the Parable of the Talents in Matthew 25:14-25. He shared how overwhelmed his was, and continues to be, by the generosity of our congregation. The ask in week one of "if you need $100 ask, if you have $100 give," resulted in $6000 worth of giving. Generosity to help those in our community who need a little help.
Mitchell shared that generosity is a gift from God and the genius of generosity is we can experience the good life here and now.
Mitchell invited us to ponder the question, "What are you doing, with what you have been given?" Consider that as you reflect on ways you can serve in and through White Rock UMC. More information on that at www.wrumc.org/serve
A huge thanks to Emily Doogue for her words that opened this week's sermon.
You can watch this week's sermon on our YouTube Channel here:
https://youtu.be/kBjZBJ6nMqI
On this week's episode Phil and Rebecca get into the wide array of music from yesterday's worship. From handbells, to folk band, and the choir worship was full of musical variety. They also share their thoughts on the Parable of the Talents and the "Blessing Bags," that were assembled after worship.
The two songs they talked about most were:
"Sing a New World Into Being" by Mary Lou Bringle
and
"More Heart Less Attack" by Needtobreathe
As always, we'd love your feedback. Email us at worship@wrumc.org.
Rev. Phil Dieke was joined by Bee Morehead, Executive Director; Josh Houston, Advocacy Director; and Scott Atnip, Engagement Director of Texas Impact. Texas Impact exists to put faith into action by equipping faith leaders and their congregations with information, opportunities, and outreach tools to educate their communities and engage with lawmakers on pressing public policy issues.
This conversation gives an update on the Texas Legislature, which recently the third special called session came to a close. Much of the focus was on voting, specifically the legislation that is making voting more difficult and the why behind the need to mobilize voters in our communities.
Texas Impact will be partnering with the North Texas Board of Church and Society to host a "Voter Mobilization Training" on November 13, 2021. Stay tuned for more details and registration. And find out more about Texas Impact at www.texasimpact.org.
In week two of our series "The Good Life: Living into Generosity," Rev. Mitchell Boone addressed generosity through the lens of freedom. Specifically, how "freedom doesn't come from having more, freedom comes from needing less." Mitchell preached from the story of the rich man and his possessions in Mark 10:17-31.
Generosity is an impart part of our work as the church, and specifically here in East Dallas at White Rock UMC. At the beginning of the sermon Mitchell highlights this by sharing the numerous things that will take place in our building this week.
Let us know what generosity means to you. How have you found freedom through generosity?
Thanks to Kelly Drake for his introductory comments on stewardship and generosity!
You can watch this week's sermon on our YouTube Channel here:
https://youtu.be/h2OJVPSfYgg
This week Rebecca and Phil reflect on the story of the rich man and his possessions in Mark 10. They spend time focusing on the music that accompanied the scripture and sermon, and the why behind the songs that Rebecca chose for this week. They also discuss Phil's children's time message and follow up on Mitchell's obscure reference to Modest Mouse.
If you missed yesterday's worship, you can go back and worship in full on our YouTube channel here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q45d7Eky8rE&list=PLBQbmfyoOJWdTS9InrFQnyhq-YHD0m18h
We kicked off our new worship series "The Good Life: Living into Generosity," by hearing Barbara Canter share how compassion plays a role in her generosity at White Rock UMC, and beyond. Mitchell built off Barbara's words using the story of Acts 2:43-47 as an example of generosity being a lifestyle, and something the early church committed to as a community.
Mitchell offers both a thought experiment, and an opportunity to both receive and offer generosity. If you are in a tough spot and need help, or if you are in the position to offer help to somebody. Email pastor@wrumc.org. Your email will remain confidential with Mitchell, and only Mitchell.
Check out the video of this week's sermon here:
https://youtu.be/-djgNhLvXRc
In this week's episode Rebecca Garrett Pace is joined by Kyle Oberkrom. They discuss generosity and do a deep look into worship planning.
Rev. Mitchell Boone wrapped up our series "Grounded: Recognizing Everyday Holiness," talking about Communion, and specifically World Communion Sunday. Mitchell encouraged us to expect more as we come to the table, for it is at this table, Christ's table, that we are truly grounded. In taking Communion we are called to remember and to remember is to pull the past of God's faithfulness into the present and believe God will remain faithful into the future.
We hope this series provided you an opportunity to find your grounding in the holiness that constantly surrounds you.
You can watch this sermon on our YouTube Channel here:
https://youtu.be/VH0Kd__Oj3s
We're back! That is The Day After Sunday is back. After a four month break we are back with a bit of a new format, new intro and outro, new material and yet the same loving personalities. :)
This week we dive into the history of World Communion Sunday and the benefits and complexities of the world getting smaller. We spent much of our time talking about the music, specifically the blurred line between sacred and secular, what constitutes a hymn, and when it is ok to change song lyrics. Turns out, this is done fairly regularly... who knew?
We are excited to be back and as always we'd love to hear from you. If you have thought about our Sunday worship and/or questions about the why behind the worship, we'd love to hear from you. Email us at worship@wrumc.org
In week three of our series "Grounded: Recognizing Everyday Holiness," Rev. Phil Dieke took us through the story of Elijah, found in 1 Kings 19:1-18. As a warning, this sermon speaks about sensitive topics of mental health, specifically depression and suicidal ideations experienced by Elijah and what that communicates to us today. If you are not ok, that's ok. You are not in this alone.
At the conclusion of the sermon, Phil offers various mental health resources. You can find those resources at
www.wrumc.org/recovery.
You can watch this week's sermon on our YouTube Channel here:
https://youtu.be/VK08HJH7WHA
In week two of our series, "Grounded: Recognizing Everyday Holiness," Rev. Mitchell Boone looked at the words of Jesus in Matthew 7:21-29, specifically identifying what it means to build on a foundation of rock, rather than on sand (on sand... not in sand, as he alludes to in the sermon). This text, and Mitchell's sermon, is an invitation for self-reflection and examination. What does it mean for us to not only hear the words of Jesus, but also act on them.
To help with this reflection, Mitchell offered four questions to ask yourself:
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Did I love well today?
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Did I appreciate God's love today?
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Did I find an opportunity to share it?
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Did I find space to cling to it?
May these be questions that help you analyze and solidify your foundation.
You can watch this week's sermon on our YouTube Channel here:
https://youtu.be/jToorrXbpyI
We kicked off a new series on Sunday, "Grounded: Recognizing Everyday Holiness." Rev. Mitchell Boone kicked off this series by preaching on Exodus 3:1-6, the story of Moses and the burning bush. Mitchell acknowledges the struggles we find ourselves in given the ongoing of this pandemic. In the midst of those struggles he invites us to "look up" and be aware of the holiness in front of us.
You can watch all our sermons on our YouTube Channel here:
https://youtu.be/rUaK7aioVOo
Rev. Josh Esparza wrapped up "Evidence: A Series on Faith that Bears Fruit," looking at James 2:14-26. Even if you don't have this text memorized you have surely heard it, and the debate that has emerged from it. Are we justified by our faith or by our works? Josh enters this debate, playing on James reference to Rahab (see Joshua 2) and a look at individual agency - a question that has risen to the top of conversation in the state of Texas given the passing of SB8.
Toward the end of his sermon, Josh references the Social Principles of the United Methodist Church. You can find all the Social Principles, including what the church says about abortion, here.
You can watch this sermon on our YouTube Channel here:
https://youtu.be/kv2yRlDGEUQ
Rev. Phil Dieke continued our series "Evidence: A Series on Faith that Bears Fruit," preaching on Matthew 25:31-46, often referred to as the Sheep and the Goats, or the Judgment of the Nations. Phil invited us to not only consider this passage as a parable, but how it plays a parabolic role in the overall story of Matthew's Gospel. Jesus call to mercy, and judgment based on mercy, is a critical turning point in the Gospel (and the debate between faith vs. works), but it is not the end of the story. Instead, it points us to the culmination of the story.
Let us know your thoughts on this week's text.
The parable he tells at the beginning is from Peter Rollin's book "The Orthodox Heretic."
You can watch this week's sermon on our YouTube Channel here:
https://youtu.be/uiEncZ4CJOk
Rev. Mitchell Boone kicked off "Evidence: A Series on Faith that Bears Fruit," by looking at the Fruits of the Spirit in Galatians 5. Mitchell invites us to look at the fruit of our relationships, to examine how we behave and the implications that has on our relationships. The Fruits of the Spirit may be all too familiar, something that is even trigging because you were forced to remember these as a kid.
How do you find value in the Fruits of the Spirit? What do they have to offer you today?
You can watch this sermon on our YouTube Channel here:
https://youtu.be/4sJxG1TOMeM
Katilin Roberson, the Dallas & Fort Worth Development Associate for Refugee Services of Texas (RST), joined us to discuss the work of RST. She gives a bit of the history of their work, shares what is happening with the Special Immigrant Visas (SIV) for those in Afghanistan, and how we can get involved in the work of RST.
RST is hosting trainings for new volunteers. If you are interested in joining their work you can create a volunteer profile on their webpage and sign up for a training. You can also make donations or buy supplies off their Amazon wish list. Find more details here:
https://www.rstx.org/locations/dallas.html
And if your curious what the UMC says about refugees, this is the statement from the Social Principles:
Migrants, Immigrants and Refugees
We affirm the dignity, worth and rights of migrants, immigrants and refugees, including displaced and stateless people. In so doing, we acknowledge that the world today is facing an unprecedented crisis related to the displacement of vast numbers of people due to such factors as ongoing wars and other hostilities, foreign interventions, widespread famine and hunger, global warming and climate change, and the failure of nation-states to adequately protect and care for their people. We recognize that displaced people are particularly vulnerable as their inbetween status often provides them with few protections and benefits, leaving them open to exploitation, violence and abuse.
We urge United Methodists to welcome migrants, refugees, and immigrants into their congregations and to commit themselves to providing concrete support, including help with navigating restrictive and often lengthy immigration policies, and assistance with securing food, housing, education, employment and other kinds of support.
We oppose all laws and policies that attempt to criminalize, dehumanize or punish displaced individuals and families based on their status as migrants, immigrants or refugees. Additionally, we decry attempts to detain displaced people and hold them in inhumane and unsanitary conditions. We challenge policies that call for the separation of families, especially parents and minor children, and we oppose the existence of for-profit detention centers for such purposes.
Back to School... no matter if you're a student, the parent of a student, a teacher, or have no affiliation with school anymore, there is something about back to school that says Fall is here. As we move into another school year, it may not be the school year we were hoping for. Maybe not the school year we were expecting. As we enter this now third school year affected by Covid-19, this school year may bring with it a sense of disappointment. Rev. Mitchell Boone invites us to consider our disappointment in light of all taking place world-wide, in our communities, our homes, and our own bodies. As he states, "Disappointment is what it means to be in community," because "I will let you down."
Mitchell used the Walk to Emmaus text in Luke 24:13-35 to discuss this idea of disappointment. Disappointment, it turns out, may have something to offer us, indeed it may be part of our Long Walk Home.
Let us know where you are disappointed. And as you work through your disappointment, where you are finding hope. Email us at office@wrumc.org.
If you'd like to watch this week's sermon you can find it here:
https://youtu.be/kUHWUrL_evk
We wrapped our series "Grappling with God: Untangling Tough Scriptures" by wrestling with 1 Timothy 2:11-15. Rev. Josh Esparza invited us to be aware of the places in scripture we choose to highlight and those we choose to ignore, and ponder why we do so. He highlighted how this specific text has been used to oppress women and continues to benefit patriarchy within the church and society. He also, quite powerfully, invites men to repent of said patriarchy and offers an apology to women for all the ways this text, the Bible, and religion has been used to make them feel lesser, and has prevented them from leadership they so often deserve.
This was a powerful ending to an intense series. Thank you for wrestling with us. We would love to hear your thoughts on this sermon, and the series as a whole. Let us know by email us at office@wrumc.org.
In week 4 of our series Grappling with God, Rev. Mitchell Boone took on apocalyptic literature in the Bible. So often these texts are used to create fear, even manipulate people. Mitchell assures us that despite the vivid and wild language, there is indeed hope and that hope is in the rule and reign of God in the here and now.
This week's text is Daniel 7:1-8. Read along as we seek to meet Jesus in the difficult places!
You can watch this week's sermon on our YouTube Channel here:
https://youtu.be/8xHE5evDo68
Money is a topic that often makes us uncomfortable in church. The scripture Rev. Mitchell Boone worked to untangle on Sunday only complicates this more. Luke 16:1-13 is a difficult parable followed by four differing interpretations.The parable invites us to consider shrewdness and dishonest wealth. Not things you often associate with Jesus or the Gospel. And yet, as we embrace this difficult text we are forced to ask difficult questions about money, and specifically our relationship with money.
This series is an invitation to grapple with God as we continue to wrestle with scripture. You are welcome to join us as we wrestle together as a community!
Check out the video version of this sermon on our YouTube channel:
https://youtu.be/1-Y9gEx1mYI
In the second week of our series "Grappling with God: Untangling Tough Scriptures," Mitchell took on the topic of violence, specifically genocide as found in 1 Samuel 15:1-3. It is actually genocide+ as God appears to command utter destruction of not only the people, but also the animals. What are we to do with such a text? You might be surprised by Mitchell's answer.
Let us know how you respond to violence in the Bible, email us at office@wrumc.org
You can watch this sermon on our YouTube Channel here:
https://youtu.be/M5_4hIuJATo
Rev. Phil Dieke hosted a conversation on Fireside Chat, a podcasting platform that allows show hosts the opportunity to not only to have a live audience, but invite audience members "on stage" to join the conversation.
In this episode, Rev. Virzola Law, Senior Minister at Northway Christian Church in Dallas, joins Phil to discuss why voting rights are a non-partisan issue that the church (and faith communities in general) must fight for if they believe in justice for all. The underlying premise: all people are created in the image of God, thus all people have inherent value. And, as the saying goes "One person, one vote."
The same day this podcast is being released, Phil and Rev. Mitchell Boone are with Bishop Mike McKee (bishop of the North Texas Conference) in Austin, Texas for the "Let My People Vote" rally hosted by Texas Impact. If you have questions about this podcast or why White Rock UMC is fighting for voting rights, email Phil (pdieke@wrumc.org).
Rev. Mitchell Boone kicked off our new worship series "Grappling with God: Untangling Tough Scriptures," by examining Jacob wrestling with God, or an angel, or man? The story isn't exactly clear on who Jacob is wrestling with, thus in as much as Jacob wrestled we also are invited to wrestle with difficult texts demanding that in our struggle we too are blessed.
This story of Jacob reveals to us the holy endeavor of wrestling, even that God welcomes the struggle. This will be our approach for the next few weeks of this series. Recognizing the struggle, the wrestle, the grappling is indeed holy work. It isn't easy work, but it is holy work. And, unlike Jacob, we engage in this work as a community... not alone. Let us grapple with God together!
You can watch this sermon, and all our other videos on our YouTube Channel here:
https://youtu.be/tKjWb_1fjnw
Rev. Mitchell Boone concluded our series "Reimagine," looking at chapter four of Paul's letter to the Philippians. He read the text through the lens of joy and our experience of returning in person. Many of us are exhausted, thus joy seems hard to find. Or we feel we need to "put on joy," in order to mask our exhaustion and/or sadness. Joy, Mitchell reminded us, is not absent of conflict. Rather, often it is through conflict we find joy when we unite around our common cause and our common calling.
"Joy is a byproduct of our called work together, in our community, as a church."
In the midst of the chaos and exhaustion, where are you finding joy?
You can watch this, and other videos on our YouTube Channel here:
https://youtu.be/eJub57mG9bM
For the third week of our series Reimagine, Rev. Mitchell Boone took the third chapter of Paul's letter to the Philippians as an invitation to press forward, to leave behind what was and reimagine what can be. Mitchell compared our current experience to leaping from a platform to a subway. We are currently in that liminal space, that in between space - not quite to the subway, but have already left the platform. How will we mind the gap?
In this season of liminality, how are you reimagining who we are as a church?
If you'd like to watch this sermon, you can find it on our YouTube Channel here:
https://youtu.be/xfT4zsZCMtM
As we continue our series "Re-Imagine," Rev. Mitchell Boone turned to chapter 2 of Paul's letter to the Philippians to talk about "re-engaging." Mitchell talked about the the Christ Hymn in chapter 2, a hymn that probably predates Paul's writing, one the speaks of the kenotic (self-emptying) love of Christ. Mitchell invites us all to re-engage by adding our unique voices to the song we are singing as a community.
We are so grateful to return in person, the question is how will you "re-engage."
If you would like to watch this sermon you can find it on our YouTube Channel here:
https://youtu.be/1wieAUoWnJ8
This Sunday Mitchell kicked off our new worship series "Reimagine: A Series on Coming Back." Throughout this series we will use Paul's letter to the Philippians to guide as as we "reimagine" what it means for us to be the church, and who we can be for our community - be that in East Dallas, or digitally around the world.
In this sermon, Mitchell invited us to consider our shared memories and identify who we are as a church. He offered some reflections saying, "We are a church that shares our building... We are a church that launched a second campus, a church that is in and for the neighborhood... We are a church that is for full inclusion of our LGBTQIA+ siblings... We are a church that has room at the table for all.
How would you finish that sentence? We are a church that...
Let us know how you would finish that sentence or if you have any other thoughts about Mitchell's sermon.
If you prefer to watch this week's sermon, you can find it on our YouTube Channel here:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLBQbmfyoOJWdpriRJ_AAIB9yEb2BJ0qg7
Rev. Keith had the privilege of our first sermon with people back in the Sanctuary. We were not full back, but had some guinea pigs join us and oh how great it was to share the space with people.
Keith preached on Matthew 20, a parable that is both beautiful and challenging as he reminded us, "The role of the sermon is both to afflict the comfortable and comfort the afflicted." This specific parable offers assurance for many, while also raises great questions for our understanding of fairness. We assume we know what is fair, and if anything can't we agree God is fair? And while these are great questions to be asking they are also a perfect set up for Jesus' audience, and for us today.
Let us know your thoughts on the parables, on grace, or just in general. You can email us at office@wrumc.org.
If you'd prefer to watch this week's sermon, you can find it on our YouTube Channel here:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLBQbmfyoOJWdpriRJ_AAIB9yEb2BJ0qg7
The Rev. Jim Keat sat down with Rev. Phil Dieke to discuss the move from fully virtual, back to in person, AND how hybrid will play a role in this transition, but will never go away... at least they hope not. They talk the future of the church, where things could be and hopefully are going. And, they discuss how to carry the momentum that was built in digital spaces into this next phase.
Jim is the Digital Minister at Riverside Church in New York City, though he lives in Michigan with his family, hence the idea of being a digital minister. He also serves as the Director of Online Innovations at Convergence. Find out more about his work with Convergence and The Online Church Conference he'll be hosting June 9-10 here:
https://convergenceus.org/ourteam/
Friends, this may be our last Sunday Sit Down, at least in this format. Jim and Phil talk a bit about what could be coming next. In the meantime, if you have thoughts, ideas, or questions about Online Church we would love to hear them. Email Phil at pdieke@wrumc.org.
Rev. Mitchell Boone transitioned us from our worship series on the Holy Spirit to a series of "one-offs." Typically one-offs are those Sundays that fall in between our scheduled worship experiences, and don't usually have a consistent theme. Throughout this summer our one-offs will be focusing on the parables of Jesus.
This week Mitchell took some time to discuss the purpose of parables. Why they are both simple stories and complex lessons, and how they express God's counter-cultural work in the world. This sermon focused on two parables from Matthew 13:31-35: the parable of the mustard seed and the parable of yeast. While there are many interpretations that can be made about these two brief parables, Mitchell invites us to consider the invasive nature of both mustard and yeast and how that relates to the Kingdom of Heaven.
Let us know your thoughts regarding parables, and specifically these parables by emailing us at office@wrumc.org.
If you prefer to watch this sermon, you can find it on our YouTube Channel:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLBQbmfyoOJWdpriRJ_AAIB9yEb2BJ0qg7
Rev. Mitchell Boone sat down with Rev. Phil Dieke back in the sanctuary, rather than the studio, to discuss our big news: worship will be returning to the Sanctuary on Sunday June 13. This return means our online worship will change... it will continue, but will change. Mitchell and Phil spend time breaking down what this means for our in-person worship, but especially what it means for all who have been worshiping with us online and plan to remain online worshipers (for whatever reason). They discuss what the hybrid worship experience will be like, other discipleship opportunities that will be hybrid, and new opportunities that will be virtual only or "digital first" experiences.
Let us know what questions you have regarding our hybrid and/or digital first experiences. You can email us at office@wrumc.org. You can also find more info regarding our reopening plan at:
www.wrumc.org/reopen
If you prefer to watch this episode, you can find it our our YouTube Channel here:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLBQbmfyoOJWfugdO47mCcMjoNvCEy-mCZ
This year's Pentecost sermon again come from Acts 2 and Rev. Mitchell Boone interpreted it through the lens of the Holy Spirit as a Catalyst. We often associate Pentecost with the birth of the church, and rightfully so. However, as we all learned at some point in life, fire often comes with danger. It is a challenge to contain fire. And, as Mitchell states, "fire always leaves something changed."
Mitchell also invited us to consider the stories we tell. How are our stories are evidence of the work of the Holy Spirit in our lives and in the world? What story are you telling? Let us know by emailing us at office@wrumc.org.
If you prefer to watch this sermon, you can find it on our YouTube Channel here:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLBQbmfyoOJWdpriRJ_AAIB9yEb2BJ0qg7
Rebecca, Mitchell, and Phil reflect on Pentecost Sunday, the role of fire in scripture, and the celebration of our graduates. They also get into a conversation on how the Spirit may be moving the church in digital spaces!
If you prefer to watch this episode (which had some moments worthy of watching) you can find it on our YouTube Channel:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLBQbmfyoOJWdGCovwDxV1Xoaj6JLlWbS6
Today we celebrate Pentecost. Many aren't totally sure what Pentecost really is, thus Rev. Melissa Collier Gepford sat down with Rev. Phil Dieke to have a deeper conversation on the history of Pentecost in the Jewish and Christian traditions. They also spend some time discussing why we celebrate Pentecost each year, what it means for the church and for you as an individual, and what we are invited to through this often under celebrated holiday.
You can follow Melissa on Twitter (@MelissaGepford). And, if you prefer to watch this episode of the Sunday Sit Down, you can find it on our podcast channel here:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLBQbmfyoOJWfugdO47mCcMjoNvCEy-mCZ
If you have any questions about Pentecost, our series Third Person, or in general you can email us at office@wrumc.org.
Phil preached the third sermon in our series "Third Person." This week we focused on the Holy Spirit as Re-Creator. We read the first creation narrative in Genesis 1, the liberation of the Hebrew people from Egypt in Exodus 14, and the Valley of the Dry Bones in Ezekiel 37. Throughout these three passages the Holy Spirit act in generative ways: creating, liberating, re-creating. We, as human-beings, are invited to co-create with the Holy Spirit in these generative ways as well.
Phil shares some of the ways he is seeing these incredible partnerships of re-creation, scenarios that seem unimaginable. The Valley of the Dry Bones in Ezekiel 37 is filled with incredible imagery, tells a hopeful story of new life following great tragedy, and invites us to dream of the same. There is much pain, suffering, and tragedy in the world... can you imagine a better world?
Let us know ways you are seeing the Holy Spirit as Re-Creator. Email us at office@wrumc.org
If you prefer to watch this sermon, you can find it on our YouTube Channel here:
https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLBQbmfyoOJWdpriRJ_AAIB9yEb2BJ0qg7
This week Rev. Phil Dieke was joined by Sarah Cruz, Policy Specialist at Texas Impact, and Sid Earnheart, Executive Director for Justice for Our Neighbors DFW and Legal Fellow at Texas Impact. They discuss their recent trip to the border, specifically their time in Brownsville and Matamoros. They share stories they heard, hope they saw, and the many things still causing frustration.
Before the pandemic, Texas Impact was hosting Courts and Ports trips to the Texas/Mexico border, specially in the Rio Grande Valley. This trip was the first step to getting Courts and Ports started again.
If you are interested in a Courts and Ports trip email us at office@wrumc.org
Continue in our series "Third Person," Rev. Mitchell Boone preached from John 14 and the role of the Holy Spirit as paraclete. This term is translated many different ways, including "friend" and "counselor." Mitchell shared why he loves the translation of counselor and the how the Holy Spirit as counselor may just be the Good News we need to hear today.
You can watch this sermon on our YouTube Channel here:
https://youtu.be/fIp6DelZXxY
Rebecca, Mitchell, and Phil reflect on week two of our series Third Person: A Series on the Holy Spirit. They discuss the word Paraclete, and how the Holy Spirit acts as our counselor/comforter. Friend of the pod, Rev. Joshua Manning as a perplexing question regarding the conundrum of "and" over "but." Check out his question and know your questions are always welcome as well.
If you prefer to watch this episode, you can find the video version on our YouTube Channel:
https://youtu.be/fcy4Sbj7MQo
Jack returns to continue the conversation regarding the Holy Spirit, specifically focusing on cultivating the experience of the Holy Spirit. He and Phil share how they each cultivate the Spirit in their own lives, then Jack gives some scriptural advice regarding ways you too can cultivate the Holy Spirit in your own life.
Jack is a wealth of knowledge. You can find out more about him and his work at: jacklevison.com
If you prefer to watch this episode of the Sunday Sit Down, you can find it on our YouTube Channel here:
https://youtu.be/owhZYLcaVEE
Rev. Mitchell Boone kicks off our new series "Third Person: A Series on the Holy Spirit." Mitchell shares a general overview of the series that will lead us to Pentecost. The Holy Spirit is often a topic we don't fully dive into at White Rock United Methodist Church. We make mention here and there, but rarely do a deep dive. Mitchell begins by giving on overview of ruach (the Hebrew term translated as wind/breath/spirit). He references a variety of biblical texts, but primarily focuses on Matthew 3:13-4:1 - the baptism of Jesus.
We are excited about this new series, about tuning ourselves to the work of the Spirit. We hope you'll join us for all four weeks.
You can watch all our sermons on our YouTube channel here:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLBQbmfyoOJWdpriRJ_AAIB9yEb2BJ0qg7
Rebecca and Mitchell breakdown week one of our new worship series “Third Person: A Series on the Holy Spirit.” They talk about the "dance of the Trinity," and break down their initial thoughts on the Holy Spirit.
Dr. Jack Levison, W. J. A. Power Professor of Old Testament Interpretation and Biblical Hebrew at Perkins School of Theology, sat down with Rev. Phil Dieke to discuss the Holy Spirit. Jack gives a break down on the Hebrew term ruach translated as "wind," "breath," "spirit," and "Spirit." Jack is a wealth of information, wisdom, and his energy is infection.
Find more about Jack here:
https://www.smu.edu/Perkins/FacultyAcademics/FacultyListingA-Z/Levison
Also, WRUMC is using his devotional study 40 Days with the Holy Spirit for most recent study. You can join our Facebook Group where we discuss this devotional together:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/449094566240790
If you prefer to watch this episode you can find it on our YouTube Channel here:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCpZzDPUHKWJNQmsKlX1H1vg
Preparing fish for breakfast... are you a fan or do you, like Rev. Mitchell Boone, think Jesus should have had a different breakfast menu?
Mitchell preached on more than just breakfast. The narrative surrounding the risen Christ serving fish and bread to the disciples is rich and filled with much for us to ponder. Specifically, Mitchell focused on this idea of scarcity and abundance Christ offers in this narrative.
As we conclude this series on "Encountering the Risen Christ," we would love to hear you stories, your narratives, your experiences with God. You can always email us at office@wrumc.org.
You can watch this week's sermon on our YouTube Channel:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLBQbmfyoOJWdpriRJ_AAIB9yEb2BJ0qg7
Rebecca, Mitchell, and Phil discuss the final week of our Eastertide series: Encounter the Risen Christ. They talk about fish, scarcity vs abundance, and religious experience.
They reference a new devotional study 40 Days with The Holy Spirit by Jack Levison. You can find it at local book stores or order it on Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/40-Days-Holy-Spirit-Fresh/dp/1612616380
You can also join a devotional group on Facebook here:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/449094566240790/
As always, you can watch this episode on our YouTube Channel here:
https://youtu.be/MWU7bj6Hd6k
Brenda Maddox joins Rev. Phil Dieke for this week's Sunday Sit Down. Brenda shares some of the religious experiences she has had throughout the course of her life. She was extremely gracious to share such vulnerable experiences, and to do so in such a public space.
This series has been great for us to intentionally focus on the ways we encounter the risen Christ. Brenda's willingness to share paves the way for others to do the same.
We'd love to hear your experiences with God. Let us know by emailing office@wrumc.org
Rev. Mitchell Boone continues our series: Encountering the Risen Christ. This week he used the second half of John 20 to address fear, doubt (and doubting Thomas), and how far Christ will travel to get to us. He shares a story about Father Gregory Boyle and Homeboy Industries. If you aren't familiar we suggest you check it out. You can find their info here:
https://homeboyindustries.org/our-story/father-greg/
Let us know what you took away from Mitchell's sermon.
If you prefer to watch this sermon, you can find it on our YouTube Channel here:
https://youtu.be/JCPgBx90UTU
Rebecca, Mitchell, and Phil talk through the second week of Encountering the Risen Christ, specifically looking at doubt, "Doubting Thomas," and the distance Jesus travels. Things get a little weird when they start talking about quantum physics, then quantum theology... then again the text does allude to Jesus walking through walls.
If you prefer to watch this episode, you can find it on our YouTube Channel here:
https://youtu.be/lXuKgKEXg4k
As Phil explains in the video, we had some internet issues that left the Sunday Sit Down difficult to understand. Thus, rather than posting a hard to understand video, we want to invite you to join Rev. Justin and (almost) Dr. Lisa Hancock for their class The Julian Way.
They spoke about the class and much about Julian of Norwich on the Sunday Sit Down this morning, and we don't want you to miss what they have to offer, and what Julian has to offer us today! You can register for the class at the link below. Meeting times are 7:30-8:45pm CST. Sorry for the difficulties. We hope you'll join us for the class:
https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZMlc-mhqT8oH9Bfy7oqtscaYlIgOYFx4k9e
Rev. Mitchell Boone kicked off our new worship series, Encountering the Risen Christ, with laughter. At the beginning of Mitchell's sermon he jokes about an "oops" during the offertory. You'll have to listen to hear about it, as well as his sermon to kick off the series.
This series takes the momentum of Easter Sunday and continues it into Eastertide - a time we continue to celebrate the risen Christ. In this series we will specifically look at the last two chapters of John and the encounters the disciples have with the risen Christ and what those encounters reveal and mean to us today.
Mitchell speaks about Inaugurated Eschatology - the already/not yet reality of God's kingdom/reign. He also emphasizes the role of the women, and specifically Mary, in these encounters.
Let us know your thoughts on Encountering the Risen Christ, and what religious experiences mean to you.
You can watch Mitchell's sermon on our YouTube Channel here:
https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLBQbmfyoOJWdpriRJ_AAIB9yEb2BJ0qg7
We kicked off a new worship series yesterday focusing on the disciples encounters with the risen Christ, specifically in the Gospel of John. Mitchell and Phil reflect on this topic, and share some laughs over bloopers. Turns out things don't often go like we plan...
You can watch this episode on our YouTube Channel here:
https://youtu.be/Jk731mvDf4U
Rev. Mitchell Boone joins Rev. Phil Dieke for this week's sit down. As we kick off our new series: Encountering the Risen Christ, they discuss the idea of religious experience through the lens of Methodism. John Wesley, the unintended found of Methodism, talked a lot about religious experience, and more than talked about it he valued it, alongside Scripture, tradition, and reason, as a valid way of understanding God.
Mitchell and Phil get a bit nerdy talking about epistemology, justification, sanctification, and hearts strangely warmed. We'd love to hear about your religious experience(s). You can email us at office@wrumc.org.
You can also find the video version of this episode on our YouTube Channel:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCpZzDPUHKWJNQmsKlX1H1vg
For this year's Easter sermon Rev. Mitchell Boone asked the question, what makes a good story? Having spent the Lenten season in the Gospel of Mark, we capped off Easter looking at Mark 16:1-8. If you have never read the conclusion of this Gospel, we encourage you to do so now. It has quite the surprising ending. No encounter with the risen Christ, but the disciples leaving with fear.
What are we to make of a story, ending in fear...? Maybe that is exactly the point.
Let us know your thoughts on this year's Easter story and what you think makes a good story!
You can watch this sermon on our YouTube Channel:
https://youtu.be/U2jTvwn2T7c
Rebecca, Mitchell, and Phil discuss returning to in-person worship, Easter liturgy, and discuss if Mark is a good story teller. What is that ending? They talk through fear and being afraid, how that ending is an invitation to write the next chapter, the next season that Mark leaves as a cliff hanger at the end of his Gospel. Phil shared a link to a video reading a portion of the book "How Not to Be Afraid: Seven Ways to Live When Everything Seems Terrifying," by Gareth Higgins. You can check out that video here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s8eY3EBscYs
We'd love to hear your thoughts on Easter and story telling!
You can watch this episode on our YouTube Channel here:
https://youtu.be/otyoJjylvRM
The Program Staff of White Rock UMC joined Rev. Phil Dieke for a lighthearted Sunday Sit Down. They discuss favorite Easter memories, science experiments, best (and worst) Easter candy, and other fun things that will help you better understand the inner workings of our team.
We, as a staff, are grateful to serve this community and we join you all in celebrating resurrection this Easter!
If you'd prefer to watch this episode, you can find it on our YouTube Channel:
https://youtu.be/m4R3Ejjh5QI
Rev. Mitchell Boone ties together the sixth week of our Lenten series, "More Than Just a Day," and Palm Sunday. He takes us through Jesus' entry into Jerusalem riding on a donkey, which leads to an elaborate look at a donkey who has never been ridden. He also talks about parades, specifically Jesus' parade in on a donkey as a stark contrast to Pilate's entrance on a war horse on the opposite side of the city. Mitchell also expresses that following Christ will always be a downward pursuit. A challenging statement he unpacks quite well.
Let us know your thoughts, we always welcome your feedback. Wishing you a blessed Holy Week.
You can watch this week's sermon on our YouTube Channel:
https://youtu.be/C_U_MEH-1L4
Rebecca, Mitchell, and Phil reflect on Palm Sunday worship and the sixth week of our Lenten series "More Than Just a Day." Rebecca shares her fascination with donkeys... or at least how she has been pondering Jesus riding a donkey, rather than a war horse, into Jerusalem. They talk about parades, specifically the contrast between Pilate's parade into Jerusalem and that of Jesus. And the stark contrast between the kingdom of Rome and that of Jesus.
Just a note, next week we won't be recording our podcast on Monday, it will probably be on Tuesday. So it will be The Day After, The Day After Sunday.
As always, you can watch this episode on our YouTube Channel here:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLBQbmfyoOJWdGCovwDxV1Xoaj6JLlWbS6
Victoria joined Rev. Phil Dieke for this week's Sunday Sit Down. Rather than sticking with the Lent theme we pivoted and Vic shared some of her experiences as an Asian American. She spoke of what it was like growing up as an Asian American in the church in North Texas. She also shared her learning process of Asian American history, and offered some helpful resources for those who want to learn more.
You can find the resources she cultivated here:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1n-BV7vcgQTGyFDJVCVJ3vEfj5BV6XVGAmuk2dkyiNIE/edit
And, as always you can watch this episode on our YouTube Channel:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLBQbmfyoOJWfugdO47mCcMjoNvCEy-mCZ
This week during our Lenten worship series More Than Just A Day we turned our attention to the denial of Jesus. Our text for this Sunday was Mark 14:66-72. As we move closer and closer to the crucifixion of Christ, we are reminded that, since despair is an emotion we try to avoid at all costs, this particular season of Lent can feel overwhelming. On Sunday we continued the difficult journey by looking at Peter. The most faithful of Jesus' disciples ensures his own safety and life over and above the opportunity to proclaim the Truth about Jesus and his own relationship with God incarnate.
If you prefer to watch this week's episode you can find it on our YouTube Channel here:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLBQbmfyoOJWdpriRJ_AAIB9yEb2BJ0qg7
Rebecca, Mitchell, and Phil talk through the fifth Sunday in Lent. They talk through Peter's denial in the last 24 hours of Jesus' life and the seduction of denial we all face. They also speak to the gravitas of this series, how it feels like it is dragging on and almost painfully slow... and how maybe that is the point.
If you prefer to watch this week's episode you can find it on our YouTube Channel here:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLBQbmfyoOJWdGCovwDxV1Xoaj6JLlWbS6
Rev. Rosedanny Ortiz, Lead Pastor at Casa Linda Church, just down the street from White Rock UMC talks about Lent at their church, a Hispanic church here in East Dallas. She shares her experiences with Lent growing up in the Methodist Church of Puerto Rica, how the pandemic has been challenging for her and her congregation, and their time of preparation for a time of prayer and fasting during Holy Week.
You can find out more about Rev. Ortiz and her work at Casa Linda Church here:
https://casalinda.church/
You can watch this episode of the Sunday Sit Down on our YouTube Channel here:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLBQbmfyoOJWfugdO47mCcMjoNvCEy-mCZ
As we continue to work our way through this Lenten season, and the last 24 hours of Jesus' life, Mitchell invited us to take a look at the irony and paradox of the Gospel. This week he preached from Mark 14:53-65 - Jesus before the Sanhedrin.
We welcome your thoughts and reflections on this series and these last 24 hours of Jesus' life. Message us on social media or emails us: office@wrumc.org
You can watch Mitchell's Sermon here:
Rebecca, Mitchell, and Phil discuss the fourth Sunday in Lent. Mitchell is officially back from parental leave and takes us on a deep dive into the real meaning of irony and paradox. They also spend some time talking through Children's Time and Victoria's invitation to pray like we play.
You can catch the video of this week's episode on our YouTube Channel:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLBQbmfyoOJWdGCovwDxV1Xoaj6JLlWbS6
Rev. Joshua Manning, Senior Pastor at Warren UMC near Fair Park in Dallas, TX, sat down with Rev. Phil Dieke to discuss Lent through the lens of various traditions. Joshua shares a bit of his story growing up in a pentecostal denomination, they riff on the Gospel of Mark, and spend time discussing the benefits of fasting. Joshua makes the invitation that even though we are half way through Lent, it's not too late to start your Lenten practice.
What are you doing for Lent?
What is your experience with fasting?
If you'd prefer you can watch this episode on our YouTube Channel:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLBQbmfyoOJWfugdO47mCcMjoNvCEy-mCZ
Mitchell is officially back after his parental leave to preach our third Sunday in Lent.
This week we continued to journey through the last 24 hours of Jesus' life, and specifically focused on the arrest of Jesus. Mitchell took us into the betrayal Jesus felt and invited us to consider the provocative nature of grace found in Mark 14:43-50. If grace is offered even for Judas what can we take from that? And in this season of immense grief, what can we learn from this passage?
Let us know what you thought of Mitchell's sermon. We welcome your feedback.
And, if you prefer to watch this week's sermon you can find it on our YouTube Channel:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLBQbmfyoOJWdpriRJ_AAIB9yEb2BJ0qg7
Shamika Klassen joined Rev. Phil Dieke to discuss how she not only became a "Tech Chaplain," but launched techchaplain.com. They talk about communion, Lent, and other religious rituals that can (should?) take place in virtual spaces. They also talk about ethics in digital spaces and what role the church has to play in advocating for justice, even/especially digitally!
Find out more about Shamika and her work at www.techchaplain.com or find her on twitter: @shamikalashawn
If you'd like to watch this episode of the Sunday Sit Down you can find it on our YouTube Channel here:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLBQbmfyoOJWfugdO47mCcMjoNvCEy-mCZ
For our second Sunday in Lent, Phil took us to the Garden, specifically the Garden of Gethsemane. He spoke of his experiences in this garden when he traveled to the Holy Land and how olive oil press gives us insight into the immense pressure Jesus was facing.
Phil invites us to consider the suffering of Jesus as Christ's solidarity with humanity. To live is to suffer, what do we do with that suffering, and is there meaning to be made from it.
Follow along in the text: Mark 14:32-42 Let us know your thoughts on this sermon and how we can be in solidarity with you through the suffering as well.
You can watch this sermon on our YouTube Channel here:
https://youtu.be/8geVSsEhC0o
Rebecca and Phil discuss the second Sunday in Lent, which took us to the Garden. Specifically the Garden of Gethsemane, but much of the theme for the day revolved around a garden, or gardening. They talk through the experience of the garden, questions that come with Mark's Gospel experience of Jesus in the garden, and how the liturgy invited us into a deep reflection of those questions.
We always love to hear your reflections. Let us know what you thought about this week's worship.
If you'd prefer to watch this episode of The Day After Sunday, you can find it on our YouTube Channel:
https://youtu.be/D5Msv_tQU_s
Kam De Leon joined Rev. Phil Dieke to discuss a multitude of things. Kam, as a part of De Leon Provisions, fed over 2800 meals last week at the Convention Center during the winter storm in Dallas. They discuss the complexities of pull that off.
Kam wears many hats, including overseeing the community garden at White Rock UMC. They talk the garden, how to claim your plot, and garden work days coming up in the Spring. And finally, they discuss the importance of food.
This is a wonderful conversation that highlights many of the wonderful qualities of White Rock UMC.
You can claim your garden plot at www.wrumc.org/garden.
Keith preached the first Sunday of Lent on Mark 14:12-25. We begin our journey through the last 24 hours of Jesus' life with the Passover meal and institution of the Lord's Supper.
Keith invites us to not only view communion as an opportunity to feast with Jesus, but each meal we partake.
You can watch Keith's sermon on our YouTube Channel here:
https://youtu.be/CXjDA9q_3oY
On this episode Rebecca is joined by Faron Vassen - keyboardist, and Dexter Evans - tech/producer for a special music episode. They reflect on the first Sunday of Lent and the role music plays in the liturgy of our worship week in and week out.
Rev. Mitchell Boone made a momentarily comeback from paternity leave to join Rev. Phil Dieke to talk about the weather event that took place in Dallas over the last week. They discuss the snow, ice, and record colds as well as the city opening up the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center at the last minute and the catch up it took to shelter people, then also get them fed.
Most importantly we talk about the incredible generosity of White Rock UMC and the community as a whole. We gathered together to raise over $35,000 to feed people being sheltered at the Convention Center and now, also at Austin Street Center. Y'all showed up with your money, but also with your hard work. The love shown has been truly inspiring.
At the end of the episode we talk about sharing your story. This week both the Texas Senate and House will hold hearings regarding the failure of the electric grid. Our elected officials want to hear from you. You can submit your story here:
bit.ly/heatuptexas
And, as always, you can watch this episode on our YouTube Channel here:
https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLBQbmfyoOJWfugdO47mCcMjoNvCEy-mCZ
Josh kicks off Lent preaching from Mark 14:3-9. Our series this year for Lent is "More Than Just a Day." We'll be looking at the last 24 hours of Jesus' life. Josh invites us into Lent asking some wonderful questions regarding generosity and the fully lived experience:
What are we holding back? What are we waiting to begin because we're too afraid to start? What are the things God is calling us into the challenge the people around us? We hope you'll join us for our Lenten practices. Learn more about them here: https://www.wrumc.org/blog/lent2021
Rebecca Garrett Pace, Minster of Worship & The Arts at White Rock UMC, preached the wrap up sermon for our series: Love, Local.
She preached from 1 Corinthians 13, often known as "The Love Chapter," which it does indeed talk about love, but as Rebecca points out the love Paul speaks of is more than just a romantic love we often hear preached about at weddings.
Rebecca invites us to take a deep look at how we are loving. The song she references is "We Will All Be Changed," by the band Seryn.
If you prefer to watch this sermon you can find it on our YouTube Channel here:
https://youtu.be/LpUoVT72MiE
Rebecca and Phil discuss the craziness that has come with this extreme cold in Dallas, and how that has forced adjustments in worship and beyond.
They also talk about the final week of our Love, Local series. It just so happens Rebecca preached yesterday.
Each week you can join the conversation live at 9:30am CST. You can also go back and watch each episode on our YouTube Channel:
https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLBQbmfyoOJWdGCovwDxV1Xoaj6JLlWbS6
William (Bill) H. Lamar IV, Pastor of Metropolitan African Methodist Episcopal Church in Washington D.C., joined Rev. Phil Dieke for this week’s Sit Down.
Seeing as it is the conclusion of our series "Love, Local," it is Transfiguration Sunday, AND it is Valentine's Day they of course talked about love. They talk about the various words used in the Scriptures to speak of love, how love is an invitation to the divine dance of God, and how sometimes love requires accountability.
This fantastic conversation wraps up our Love, Local series inviting us to a deep discipleship of love.
If you prefer to watch this episode of the Sunday Sit Down you can find it on our YouTube Channel here:
https://youtu.be/cDBqWw0nTnY
Rev. Josh Esparza concluded the fourth quadrant of our Discipleship Plan preaching about STUDY through the lens of Matthew 7:7-12. Ask, Seek, and Know is the refrain. Josh invites us embrace curiosity as we ask, continue the path of seeking justice, and to keep knocking so we may find opportunities of transformation as we discover ourselves and commune with God.
Let us know your thoughts and how you prefer to STUDY. If you'd like to join us in STUDY head over to www.wrumc.org/events.
If you prefer to watch Josh's sermon, you can find it here:
https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLBQbmfyoOJWdpriRJ_AAIB9yEb2BJ0qg7
Rebecca and Phil discuss Sunday's worship, which focused on the final quadrant of our discipleship plan: STUDY. They talk through the theology associated with "Ask, seek, knock," found in Matthew 7:7-12. They also talk behind the scenes on the app Acapella and what it takes to make the choir ensembles we have seen in worship lately.
We'd love to hear your thoughts on the podcast, or what you experienced in worship on Sunday.
As always, you can watch this episode on our YouTube Channel:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCpZzDPUHKWJNQmsKlX1H1vg
Rev. Elizabeth Moseley joined Rev. Phil Dieke on this week's Sunday Sit Down to discuss the final quadrant of our discipleship plan: STUDY. They share how study has played a crucial role in their discipleship development, and how study not only provides opportunities for intellectual growth, but a deeper knowing of God and one another.
If you would like to get involved in more aspects of STUDY, check out www.wrumc.org/events for all the study opportunities coming up.
If you'd prefer to watch this episode, you can find it on our YouTube Channel:
https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLBQbmfyoOJWfugdO47mCcMjoNvCEy-mCZ
Rev. Keith Boone invites us to consider what it means to serve, specifically through the lens of Mark 9:30-37. Keith calls to attention the bickering of the disciples, their fear to ask Jesus a question, and the possibility that they may be asking the wrong questions entirely. Let us know your thoughts on the text, and how it inspires service and a greater sense of discipleship.
If you prefer to watch this sermon, you can find it on our YouTube Channel:
https://youtu.be/2aqw1tv8BOQ
Rebecca and Phil talk about the importance of egg shaker songs and how we are all bickering disciples. They talk about discipleship through the lens of serving, and serving through the lens of curiosity.
Rebecca mentioned the book "The Poisonwood Bible" by Barbara Kingsolver. This book is a great example why we curiosity and listening is such an important aspect of discipleship.
As always, if you'd prefer to watch this episode, you can find it on our YouTube Channel:
https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLBQbmfyoOJWdGCovwDxV1Xoaj6JLlWbS6
Krister White, member of White Rock UMC and Director, Spiritual Care at Parkland Hospital, joined Rev. Phil Dieke for this week's Sunday Sit Down. Krister shares how he became a Chaplain, how he made his way to Parkland, and how he, and his department, are dealing with the overwhelming nature of Covid-19. This is an honest, and eye opening, conversation.
White Rock UMC we have been raising money to provided meals for the Chaplains at Parkland. You can support this effort at:
www.wrumc.org/parkland
If you prefer to see the video version of this episode you can do so here:
https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLBQbmfyoOJWfugdO47mCcMjoNvCEy-mCZ
This week we continued our series Love, Local focusing on how worship plays a role in our discipleship. Rev. Phil Dieke preached on John 4:5-42, inviting us to learn from the Samaritan Woman at the Well. She was invited to a moment of deep vulnerability, and this vulnerability led her to worship in spirit and truth.
If you have thoughts on this text, or the sermon, don't hesitate to reach out.
If you'd prefer to watch this sermon, you can find the video on our YouTube Channel:
https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLBQbmfyoOJWdpriRJ_AAIB9yEb2BJ0qg7
Dexter Evans joins Rev. Keith Boone and Rev. Phil Dieke on the podcast today. They discuss yesterday's worship gathering and share what to "worship in spirit and truth" means to each of them. They also give commentary on Kevin Costner... you never know what you'll get on TDAS (shout out to Waterworld).
If you'd prefer to watch this episode you can find it on our YouTube Channel here:
https://youtu.be/NK-Y2OuuC8k
Mike McKee, Bishop of the North Texas Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church, sat down with Phil again this weekend to share how he became a United Methodist, and why he continues to be a United Methodist. They discuss the future of the denomination and how this pandemic has pulled back the curtain on values and priorities.
As a church we are grateful for Bishop McKee's leadership and his willingness to join us for the Sit Down. Let us know if you have questions for us, or the Bishop.
If you'd prefer to watch this episode of the Sunday Sit Down, you can find it on our YouTube Channel:
https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLBQbmfyoOJWfugdO47mCcMjoNvCEy-mCZ
At White Rock UMC we view discipleship through the lens of four quadrants: Live, Worship, Serve, Study. Much of our programming is done through these lenses and throughout this series we will take a deeper look into each quadrant. This Sunday we experienced worship through the lens of "Live." Rev. Mitchell Boone approached "live" by inviting us to consider Jesus and the feeding of the 5,000 (men) in Luke 9:10-17. He focuses on generosity, rather than scarcity, and asks, "what if the true miracle was in the generosity of all who were gathered sharing what they already have."
Generosity has the ability to drastically change how we "live" together. After you listen to the sermon, let us know how you plan to live more generously with those around you.
If you prefer to watch this sermon you can find it on our YouTube Channel:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLBQbmfyoOJWdpriRJ_AAIB9yEb2BJ0qg7
This week we switched things up a bit. Mitchell and Rebecca are out, so Phil was joined by Rev. Keith Boone and Rev. Linda Roby to discuss yesterday's worship which focused on the "Live" portion of our discipleship plan. They talked through the challenge of saying you are "welcoming" as a church and actually being welcome, both pre-pandemic, but even more so now. Similarly, they discussed how we can focus on "living" together more generously, even when we feel restricted by current Covid-19 protocols.
Rev. Keith Boone is a retired clergyperson in the North Texas Conference and is currently serving as the Associate Pastor of Pastoral Care and Senior Adult Ministry at White Rock UMC.
Rev. Linda Roby is also a retired clergyperson in the North Texas Conference having served at Highland Park UMC and First UMC Dallas she now attends White Rock UMC with her husband, Frank.
If you prefer to watch this episode of the TDAS, you can do so on our YouTube Channel:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLBQbmfyoOJWdGCovwDxV1Xoaj6JLlWbS6
Bishop Mike McKee joined Rev. Phil Dieke to discuss his hopes and aspirations for the United Methodist Church, specifically the North Texas Conference of the UMC. They talk about what it means to be United Methodist, how churches are innovating during this global pandemic, and hope for the year to come.
Rev. Mitchell Boone weaves together the events of January 6th at the Capitol in DC, the Baptism of the Lord Sunday, and a look at Paul's understanding of spiritual gifts in 1 Corinthians 11. Mitchell concludes by inviting us all and whatever gifts we bring, we need your gifts, gifts that serve the common good of all.
If you prefer the video version of this sermon you can find it on our YouTube Channel here:
https://youtu.be/hTiWzN95EvU
Rebecca, Mitchell, and Phil reflect on a challenging week that led to a meaningful Sunday. From the Sunday Sit Down, to the liturgy around baptismal renewal, the discussion of our Spring discipleship plan, and Mitchell's sermon on spiritual gifts, we made a few adjustments, but much of what we had planned was easily adaptable. It was adaptable because much of discipleship revolves around community involvement and Love, Local!
If you missed yesterday's Sunday Sit Down or worship, you can find both of those and the video version of this podcast on our YouTube Channel:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCpZzDPUHKWJNQmsKlX1H1vg
Today's episode of the Sunday Sit Down is a special edition. Following the insurrection that took place at the Capitol on Wednesday, January 6th Rev. Phil Dieke was joined by Bishop Mike McKee, of the North Texas Conference, Rev. Joshua Manning, Senior Pastor at Warren UMC, and our very own Rev. Mitchell Boone.
The four discuss the events that took place, how those events have affected their respective faith communities, what do we do (as a faith community, and faith leaders) to address the use of religious symbols during such events, and ultimately how do we continue to call out racism and white supremacy - ideologies that are anti-Christian and antithetical to the Gospel of Jesus Christ?
This has been a difficult few days. We welcome your comments, questions, and feedback. More than anything, we want to know how to support you as you process all that has taken place. You can always email us at office@wrumc.org.
If you'd prefer to watch this episode, you can do so on our YouTube Channel here:
https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLBQbmfyoOJWfugdO47mCcMjoNvCEy-mCZ
Rev. Keith invited us into the experience of the Magi this Epiphany Sunday. After their experience with Christ the Magi not only left in a different geographic direction, but they themselves were different as well.
Check out Keith's sermon and let us know your thoughts on Epiphany.
If you prefer to watch this sermon you can find it on our YouTube Channel here:
https://youtu.be/pdydRKwxRwI
Bill Holston, executive director of Human Rights Initiative, sat down with Rev. Phil Dieke to discuss Epiphany, but specifically Epiphany through the lens of the refugee, and the work he does at HRI.
If you want to know more about HRI you can follow them on social media or check out their website: hrionline.org
You can watch this episode on our YouTube channel here:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLBQbmfyoOJWfugdO47mCcMjoNvCEy-mCZ
Keith invites us to "drop the needle" on this first Sunday after Christmas by looking at Simeon's song in Luke 2:22-40, a song you may not be as familiar with. Keith invites us into the story of Mary, Joseph, and the baby Jesus the first few weeks of Jesus' life and also invites us to share Simeon's hope and anticipation. He suggests this Christmas we do not extinguish the light of Christ, rather we pass it on to others around us. Will you share the light?
As always you can watch this week's sermon on our YouTube Channel:
https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLBQbmfyoOJWdpriRJ_AAIB9yEb2BJ0qg7
Also, it's not too late to give to our Christmas offering to support the work of Oak Lawn UMC as they provide shelter to our homeless neighbor's during these cold nights. You can give at www.wrumc.org/christmaseve.
Jenny Misslin is a spiritual director and Enneagram teacher. She sat down this morning with Rev. Phil Dieke to discuss spiritual practices and how you can make spiritual resolutions as we go into a new year. She offers practical ideas and great advice to anybody looking for new opportunities to connect spiritually in 2021.
We'd love to hear your favorite spiritual disciplines and what spiritual resolutions you have for 2021.
As always you can watch this episode on YouTube here:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLBQbmfyoOJWfugdO47mCcMjoNvCEy-mCZ
Mitchell acknowledges the many challenges that have come with this year and invites us all to experience joy through our connectedness to one another, and to God as proclaimed in the Good News we read about in Luke 2:8-20.
You can find all of our Christmas Eve Worship services on our YouTube Channel. Specifically at this link: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCpZzDPUHKWJNQmsKlX1H1vg/videos?view=2&live_view=503
We also invite you to give to our Christmas Eve offering. 100% of the donations will go to support the work of Oak Lawn UMC in providing shelter for our homeless neighbors on cold nights. You can make your donations at www.wrumc.org/christmaseve.
Rev. Mitchell Boone wraps up Advent by taking a look at the role John the Baptist plays in this narrative. John isn't often a character we pay much attention to during Advent, but his question, and even his disappointment, are welcome in this space of waiting and preparation. As Mitchell stated regarding the challenges of this year, "We may be disappointed in God, but God is not disappointed in us... God is eager to show up."
We look forward to celebrating Christmas Eve with you all tomorrow. We will have services at 3:00pm, 6:00pm, and 11:00pm CST. You can find out more on our website:
www.wrumc.org/christmaseve
If you prefer to watch Mitchell's sermon you can find all of sermons on our YouTube Channel:
https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLBQbmfyoOJWdpriRJ_AAIB9yEb2BJ0qg7
Mitchell and Phil discuss the fourth Sunday in Advent. We talk about disappointment and how John the Baptist (Matthew 11) has a role in the Advent story.
If you want to watch this episode you can do so on our YouTube Channel:
https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLBQbmfyoOJWdGCovwDxV1Xoaj6JLlWbS6
Check out all the information regarding Christmas Eve services at www.wrumc.org/christmaseve
Jake Houze, Director of Operations at White Rock UMC, sits down with Rev. Phil Dieke to share a bit of his background, his favorite holiday traditions, and play a little game of "Would you Rather" holiday addition.
Be sure to join us next week for a conversation on spiritual New Year Resolutions!
If you'd rather watch this episode you can find it on our YouTube Channel:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCpZzDPUHKWJNQmsKlX1H1vg
Rev. Mitchell Boone invites us to take a deeper look into joy. To find and experience joy in the darkness we first need to understand what joy is, and what joy invites us to.
Mitchell reads one of the most read stories from scripture, the birth narrative found in Luke 2:1-7. What we have made into a spectacular story, when actually read in Luke is fairly ordinary. And maybe the ordinary is what needs to exemplified at this time, in this season. Ordinary Jewish family, in an ordinary Middle Eastern town - this is what leads to a mass change in the course of history. Ordinary.
If you'd prefer to watch this sermon, you can find it and all our sermons on our YouTube Channel:
https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLBQbmfyoOJWdpriRJ_AAIB9yEb2BJ0qg7
Mitchell and Phil talk through the third Sunday of Advent and take a deep dive into Mitchell's sermon on Luke 2:1-7. They discuss the nature of joy, focusing on presence, and the significance of space - particularly what makes space sacred and how WFH (Worship from Home) can be a sacred space.
Let us know what you do to mark your space at home to make it an intentional worship experience.
If you prefer to watch this, and every, episode of The Day After Sunday, you can find it on our YouTube Channel:
https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLBQbmfyoOJWdGCovwDxV1Xoaj6JLlWbS6
Neil Moseley, former staffer at White Rock UMC, sat down with me to talk about his favorite Christmas traditions, how his traditions have changed since he has been married and now has kids, and ultimately those traditions, or aspects of the holidays, he's not so fond of.
Spoiler: This whole "Christmas Card" tradition is really called into question. Where did this tradition come form anyway?
It's always a pleasure having Neil join us. Also, my ugly sweater for this week is "prehistoric"! You can watch the video version of this, and every, episode on our YouTube Channel:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLBQbmfyoOJWfugdO47mCcMjoNvCEy-mCZ
Mitchell continued our Advent Series - Joy in the Darkness - by preaching from Mary's Magnificat (Luke 1: 46-55). Mitchell calls attention to the absurdity of Advent, while recognizing Mary as a prophet who turns the systems upside down as she embraces her blessedness.
If you missed this week's worship service, you can find it on our YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCpZzDPUHKWJNQmsKlX1H1vg
Mitchell and Phil talk about about the second week of Advent and the absurdity of Advent in general, but especially this year. They also discuss the struggle it is to "celebrate" Advent when we can't engage in our traditional rituals in the way we are used to.
We all know this is a challenging year, and the holidays are no exception to that challenge. We want to know, how are you making the most of your Advent journey this year?
We continue talking about holiday traditions and our Christmas favorites. Today, the father-son duo of Keith and Mitchell joined the Sit Down to discuss the traditions that have been passed from one generation to the next in the Boone Family. At the end we start discussing Neon lights, so if you live in Casa Linda, get ready for some Christmas neon!
If you are looking to dive deeper or connect with others this Advent season, check out www.wrumc.org/events for all the opportunities.
Wishing you all a blessed Advent journey.
Rev. Mitchell Boone kicks off Advent with this sermon that takes a different perspective on darkness. He preaches from Matthew 2:1-10 as he explores all the benefits of darkness, the good that comes from darkness, and the pregnant potential that awaits in darkness.
Advent is, indeed, a time of waiting. As we journey through Advent in this strange year of 2020, what are you waiting for?
Mitchell, Rebecca, and Phil reflect on the beginning of our Advent series: Joy in the Darkness.
We spend a lot of time talking about darkness and reference Barbara Brown Taylor's book "Learning to Walk in the Dark," which we highly recommend.
Rebecca also referenced Mary Lu Walker's song "Advent Song," as a great song you can sing with your kids during this Advent season.
Dexter flipped the camera around (let's be honest, he spent a lot of time setting up a camera to get just the right shot), and joined me, Rev. Phil Dieke, to kick off Advent.
We talked about some really heavy stuff during our last series, so we thought it would be nice to switch gears and talk about our favorite Christmas traditions. Dexter works really hard to make things happen and happen smoothly for White Rock UMC, and today we get the behind the scenes of Dexter Evans. Take a listen to hear the many things that make Dexter more than just a video, producer, and tech guru.
Mitchell wraps up "Faithful Friction: Finding Peace in Conflict," be taking a deeper look at family. He takes on a challenging text from Mark 3 (13-35), while also speaking well to self-differentiation, especially in the midst of family conflict.
Knowing many of you are facing difficult decisions this holiday season, Mitchell addresses it head on. If you are receiving pushback from family members due to your decisions this holiday season, Mitchell reminds you, "you are in good company, as Jesus faced pushback from his family as well."
As we wrap this series and turn to Advent, let us know what stood out to you most throughout this worship series. Conflict is challenging and typically difficult, but we can be faithful in the midst of friction and ultimately end in a better place.
Wishing you all a Happy Thanksgiving. This year's celebration will probably be different than most. Know that we are grateful for you, your presence with us in this virtual space, and your support. Grace, peace, and blessings to you and your family.
We had some tech issues. Sorry for the audio inconsistencies.
We also wrapped up the Faithful Friction series. We acknowledged the heaviness of this series, but also how good it was... much like conflict.
Let us know what you enjoyed most in this series. What was the most challenging?
We wrapped up this series with Lisa Hancock joining me (Rev. Phil Dieke) one more time.
In this episode we focus much of our attention on boundaries. Though boundaries can be viewed as selfish, Lisa argues they are actually a sign of self-care, and the best way to establish and maintain healthy relationships. She talks the practical side of boundaries, offering some great advice if you need to implement new boundaries, and also offers great advice for those who are being greeted with new (and possibly unexpected) boundaries this holiday season.
These have been heavy topics, and yet really important as we look to "find peace in conflict."
Let us know what episode you got the most out of or what additional thoughts you'd like to explore in regard to conflict.
Mitchell was back preaching this week, tackling the second week of "Faithful Friction: A Series on finding Peace in Conflict."
Forgiveness is a challenging idea, and the scripture only makes it even more challenging. The text Mitchell preached from was Matthew 18:21-35 when Peter asks Jesus how many times he should forgive.
What is your experience with forgiveness? Are there people you struggle to forgive? Those you have no desire to forgive? We'd love to hear your thoughts on forgiveness.
We'd also love to hear how you're doing in loving your neighbor in the midst of all this conflict and chaos. You can let us know by taking our latest survey:
www.wrumc.org/survey
Mitchel is joined by Dexter Evans for the pod today. Dexter is owner and operator of Blue Bear Media - a production company he founded. He also brings his expertise to White Rock UMC each and every week. Dexter does production, video editing, sound, and pretty much all the behind the scenes stuff to ensure we can have worship each and every Sunday morning.
Dexter and Mitchell have a conversation about the turn to digital given the pandemic. They break down equipment, software, hardware, and the complexity to run it all. If you want to know what it takes to pull of worship week in and week out from a tech and production stand point, you will get a glimpse of that on this week's podcast.
Let us know what questions you have for Dexter. We'll have him back for a follow up episode soon.
Lisa Hancock joined me again to continue our conversation on conflict as part of "Faithful Friction: A Series on finding Peace in Conflict."
In this episode Lisa and I discuss the difficult subject of forgiveness. She highlights the difference between forgiveness and reconciliation, shares her personal experiences and struggles with forgiveness, and we get into the pervasiveness of cancel culture.
At the end I make the invitation to send us your questions about conflict, specifically as we head into our last conversation which will be focused on boundaries. You can email me (pdieke@wrumc.org) or find me on most social media platforms (@phildieke).
Conflict is difficult. Lisa has some very practical and helpful tools. Enjoy.
To kick off our new worship series - Faithful Friction: A Series on Finding Peace in Conflict - Phil addressed the exhaustion and division felt in the USA following a contentious election season. He walked through Acts chapter 15, inviting us to consider "What is our main goal? What are our essentials/non-negotiables." Once we establish our goal and essentials, then it is up to us to tirelessly pursue that goal.
This is week one of a three week series addressing conflict. If you haven't checked out the Sunday Sit Down, each week we have a supplemental conversation with Lisa Hancock about way to navigate conflict and work toward dispute resolution and reconciliation.
You can find the Sunday Sit Down here:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLBQbmfyoOJWfugdO47mCcMjoNvCEy-mCZ
We kicked off "Faithful Friction: A Series on Finding Peace in Conflict" yesterday.
Today on the pod we reflect on Phil preaching for the first time since joining the staff, music that will ground us in this series, and generally how to deal with conflict... all kinds of conflict.
We know this is a difficult time for many, and for many different reasons (if only pure exhaustion). May this conversation find you where you are, and offer you encouragement to truly identify your goal and be unapologetic about your essentials/non-negotiables!
We kicked off a new series today - Faithful Friction: A Series on Finding Peace in Conflict. In this series we'll be exploring the places in our lives we experience conflict. During the Sunday Sit Down we'll be leaning on the expertise of our friend, Lisa Hancock. Lisa holds a Master of Arts in Dispute Resolution from SMU and is the Director of Restorative Communications. Today we spoke specifically about the importance of listening when it comes to conflict resolution. We also address the elephant in the room, the political tension that exists in the USA.
As always, we welcome your feedback and look forward to hearing your input and questions about conflict.
Find out more about Lisa's work here:
https://restorativecommunications.com
The Rev. Dr. Keith Boone invited us to reflect on Hebrews 12:1-4 as we embraced the great cloud of witnesses this All Saints' Sunday. Keith reminded us that though Hebrews 11 gives us the who's who of faith, the "somebody's," in the eyes of Jesus we are all somebody's. There are no nobody's. God has given us the gift of each other - to encourage us, inspire us, to continue to challenge us. We celebrate the saints that have gone before us, those saints who have paved the way for us, and we continue to race in honor of them.
Rev. Dr. Keith Boone joined us on the podcast this week. He preached the sermon for All Saints' Sunday this year and is also co-leading the "Living with Loss" class on Sunday evenings throughout November (you can still join at www.wrumc.org/november). We broke down ALL of Sunday's events, and it was a busy Sunday. Give a listen, let us know your thoughts, and we'd always love your feedback. Leave us a review wherever you listen to podcasts and subscribe if you haven't already.
We referenced the Dolly Parton song that the folk band sang during the offertory. You can find that song here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3BaVb8LTooU
Dr. Jenny Hughes, Ph.D., M.P.H. joined me to talk about how much All Saints' Sunday means to her personally, and for us as a community. We also talk anxiety - specifically anxiety associated with loss and grief - not just the loss of a friend, family member, or loved one, but the grief associated with all kinds of loss. And let's be honest, we have all lost plenty this year! Finally, we talk about the class she is leading along with Rebecca and Keith - Living Through Loss: A Creative Approach to Grief and Chaos.
You can find out more about the class at: www.wrumc.org/november
You can learn more about the wonderful work of Dr. Hughes at: https://profiles.utsouthwestern.edu/profile/59801/jennifer-hughes.html
Mitchell wrapped up our series "Earn, Save, Give" inviting us to take a look at what truly makes us happy. He talks through four aspects that can lead to greater happiness: relationships, gratitude, practicing kindness, and generosity. He also talks through the value and importance of Commitment Sunday and what this means for us as a church for the next 14 months.
Mitchell and Rebecca are back, saving me from flying solo! In this week's episode we look back at yesterday's wrap up of the "Earn, Save, Give," worship series. Mitchell received an award, on behalf of White Rock UMC, from Rev. Cammy Gaston, Director of Leadership Development at the North Texas Conference. We talked theology of hymns, how self-care is not an excuse for selfishness and how practicing kindness can truly lead to happiness, and did our best impersonation of NPR.
Find out more about the four week class Rebecca mentioned at www.wrumc.org/november.
And here is a link to the painting in Mitchell's office: The Broad and Narrow Way
https://www.britishmuseum.org/collection/object/P_1999-0425-13
Today was a special treat as Rev. Mitchell Boone accepted the Harry Denman Evangelism Award. This award is given out each year in the North Texas Annual Conference to one clergy, one laity, and one youth. Mitchell, on behalf of White Rock UMC, accepted the award celebrating a 250% increase in professions of faith during the 2019 calendar year. If you aren't sure what that means, take a listen!
This award celebrates Mitchell's leadership and the incredible work this entire church does in the East Dallas community, and beyond! We celebrate this award and all you, the congregation, do to make WRUMC a home for some many.
Mitchell's second sermon in our series "Earn, Save, Give," focused on saving. He shares some staggering statistics and talks through a challenging text in the Gospels (Mark 10:17-31), often referred to as "The Rich Man." He also discussed practices related to money we have to un-learn, then re-learn new ones, in order to have a better relationship with money.
We'd love to hear your feedback on this sermon, this series, and your relationship to the church. Reach out to us on Facebook, YouTube, or email.
I fly solo in this episode, as Mitchell and Rebecca have good enough reasons for being out.
As we continue through our series "Earn, Save, Give," this week's focus is on saving - which is as much a spiritual issue as it is a physical discipline.
In this episode, I reference the story often referred to as "The Rich Ruler," in Mark 10:17-31. I also talk about this month's book club where we'll be reading Walter Brueggemann's book "Money and Possessions." You are invited to join the book club conversation on Tuesday, October 27th at 8:00pm. You can find out more about the book club at www.wrumc.org/bookclub. Even if you can't read the whole book, pick a few chapters and join the conversation.
I also mentioned our latest survey. Again, we do a new survey every couple weeks so we can checkin. This survey is a financial checkin, and by that I mean we want to know how you are doing in relation to money. Not how much you have, how much you are giving, but how is your emotional/spiritual state in relation to money. You can find the survey at www.wrumc.org/survey.
Amy Allen sits down with me to discuss what it means to save, both financially and beyond. Amy is a White Rock UMC regular and has loved being a part of this community. Amy talks about the lessons she has learned as well as her greatest joys in life - all a part of what it means to save.
How are you feeling financially? We'd love to checkin with you. Take our latest survey, a financial checkin at www.wrumc.org/survey
Mitchell introduces our new worship series "Earn, Save, Give: A Series on Money and Happiness." In this series we will look at stewardship through the lens of John Wesley, specifically his quote "Earn all you can. Save all you can. So you can give all you can."
Mitchell address the Parable of the Talents in Matthew 25 and discusses the joy of stewardship when we look at possibilities rather than just preservation. He also challenges us to examine how we see God's character.
Take our latest survey, a financial checkin, at www.wrumc.org/survey.
Today we discuss the kick off to our new worship series - Earn, Save, Give: A Series on Money and Happiness.
Throughout this series we will take a Wesleyan perspective on stewardship and we begin by discussing The Parable of the Talents, God's character, vocation, and reprogramming the church... casual Monday conversations.
We talk about resources to better understand the Parable of the Talents. While I don't have anything specific to link to, I highly suggest the work of Amy-Jill Levine. She is an agnostic Jew (self professed) who teaches New Testament at Vanderbilt. Her work will open you to new perspectives on the parables, and the context from which they come.
You can sign up for this month's book club. We'll be discussing Walter Brueggemann's book "Money and Possessions." Details here:
www.wrumc.org/bookclub
Kyle Oberkrom, member and WRUMC Lay Leader, joined me to kickoff our new worship series - Earn, Save, Give: A Series on Money and Happiness. We discuss vocation, all the glories of finance, and the value and benefit of "Earn."
Kyle also shares many of the ways he is involved at WRUMC, ways you too can get connected.
You can also learn more about our new series and the overall stewardship campaign at www.wrumc.org/2021
In this week's sermon Mitchell invites us to re-member, to be stitched together and remain bound in order to do the work we are called to as the Beloved Community. He invites us not only to remember the past, but also remember the present, and remember (to remember) the future as well. These all play a role in our sharing of Holy Communion.
Sacraments are indeed holy and sacred experiences. We know it is difficult participating in such experiences virtually. This is all so challenging. We would love to know how you are feeling about Church in 2020. Take our latest survey at:
www.wrumc.org/survey
On this day after Sunday Rebecca, Phil, and Mitchell reflect on World Communion Sunday, that sneaky good Sunday.
We discuss how communion is a process of re-membering - stitching us back together - binding us together to do this work of kingdom building. Rebecca also gives insights on the history of hocus pocus and communion.
Tune in for the magic (pun totally intended!).
Also, not too late to take our "Church in 2020" survey:
www.wrumc.org/survey
Rev. Dr. Peter Mageto, Deputy Vice Chancellor of Africa University, sat down with me (Phil Dieke) and Lisa Tichenor, who sits on the Board of Africa University, to discuss how AU's pan-African student body represents the open table mentality of the United Methodist Church and how AU has been exemplifying adaptive leadership throughout this global pandemic.
Africa University is a United Methodist Institution in Zimbabwe. You can learn more about this incredible institution at:
www.wrumc.org/wine
or
https://www.support-africauniversity.org/
Also, you can find the words to Lisa's poem on our YouTube channel:
https://youtu.be/iqiC4V-NM6U
Mitchell invites us to remember our baptism, even if we were baptized as an infant, and thus remember that we are called to be community and each time we witness a baptism we are called to remember the baptismal covenant for ourselves as well.
Biblical text: Ezekiel 45:9; Amos 5:14-15, 24; Matthew 28:19-20
Rebecca, Mitchell, and Phil take a look back at week 2 of "Bread, Water, & Wine: A Series on Sacrament."
We chat about Shade and Fresh Water, the difference between justice and mercy, and worship displays.
Check out all our upcoming events at:
www.wrumc.org/events
And you can take our latest survey about the Church in 2020 at:
www.wrumc.org/survey
I, Rev. Phil Dieke, had the opportunity to sit down with a colleague I went to seminary with, Rev. Emily Everett, who is now a United Methodist missionary serving in Brazil (though currently in the US... due to the ongoing global pandemic), specifically with the project Shade and Fresh Water. We were also joined by Emily's colleague and a Social Educator at Shade and Fresh Water, Silene Rodrigues dos Santos.
We talk about the significance of the name "Shade and Fresh Water," the connection between their work raising a generation, and the similarities between their work and the work we commit to, as the church, through Baptism.
Such an intriguing conversation, and loved the opportunity to connect with a new ministry and somebody in Brazil! Thank you technology.
To learn more about Shade and Fresh Water, check out:
www.wrumc.org/water
Rev. Mitchell Boone kicks off "Bread, Water, and Wine: A Series on Sacrament."
Mitchell uses Acts 2:37-47 as his text to explore the transformative power of community, the work of the Holy Spirit, and the "fruit" of a community as evidence to the working of the Spirit.
We look forward to engaging this Series on Sacrament with you. Let us know your questions via our social media, or you can watch this sermon and/or Sunday's worship in its entirety on our YouTube Channel.
This week Katie Pryor and Justin Hancock join me on the Sunday Sit Down to discuss the incredible community work that is taking place at our Ownewood campus - yes, even in the midst of a global pandemic. We talk about the sacramental nature of this work and how community is the holy foundation for such work.
Find out more about the work of Owenwood at:
www.owenwood.org
We reflect on the opener of our new worship series Bread, Water, Wine: A Series on Sacrament. We discussion the Holy Spirit and her active role in community building and community work. We also talk about community as the foundation for sacrament, work to define sacrament, and explore why we need a more robust engagement and theology of sacrament in the church today.
We had a great time with this episode, and the launching of this new series. We would love to hear your thoughts on Sacrament, know what questions you have, and what you thought about the launch of this new series.
Find out more on our website:
www.wrumc.org/sacrament
Rev. Justin Hancock shares how Julian of Norwich inspires the work and ministry of The Julian Way. He works through 1 Corinthians 12 as he explains we are all beautiful and good creations of God with a role to play in the body of Christ - no matter our gifts, talents, or diverse embodiments.
You can find more information and support the Julian Way here. You can also watch this sermon and our entire worship service on our YouTube Channel.
Rev. Justin Hancock joins Mitchell and Rebecca to review worship from 9/13/2020. They dive deeper into Justin's sermon on 1 Corinthians 12 and also discuss Charles Wesley's hymn "Love Divine All Loves Excelling."
You can learn more and support Justin and the work he is doing through The Julian Way here:
www.wrumc.org/julianway
Rev. Justin Hancock joins Rev. Phil Dieke to discuss diverse embodiments, the inspiration of Julian of Norwich, and the work and ministry of The Julian Way.
Find out more information and how you too can support The Julian Way:
www.wrumc.org/julianway
Rebecca and Phil sit down to discuss rest - the necessity of it, the challenge to find it, and how they are each practicing rest. Phil confesses to being "A nerd on breath."
Watch the Sunday Sit Down on our Youtube Channel.
Mitchell breaks down Mark 6 as he dives into the difference between basic rest and intentional Sabbath.
You can always find the sermon video, and the entire worship service on our YouTube channel.
Rebecca and Phil review the experiences of Labor Day Sunday worship including a conversation about couches vs. beds, rest vs. sabbath, and how a true sabbath in the modern era is the theological equivalent to punk.
You can find our worship services on our Facebook Page and YouTube Channel.
Victoria Sun Esparza, Minister of Children, Youth and Families, joins Associate Pastor, Rev. Phil Dieke to discuss what back to school means for families in the midst of a global pandemic. They also talk through the contents of the back to school boxes and most importantly remind parents "You're doing a great job!"
You can check out the "Unboxing Video" from our back to school boxes here. You can also find the full worship service here.
Mitchell centers us, this back to school Sunday, by looking at the storms we encounter through the lens of scripture, specifically through the lens of Mark 4:35-41.
As a reminder you can support our Classroom Cooperative with Sanger Preparatory School here. Let us know how we can support you, this strange back to school season!
This week Rebecca, Mitchell, and Phil discuss all things back to school. They break down the Children's Ministry unboxing video and the incredible work of Dexter Evans.
They also discuss Mitchell's sermon, and further dive into the text of Mark 4:35-41; talk about the long journey of the Folk Band's offertory song "Shine"; as well as the blessing of devices and blessing of learners and teachers we shared in worship and one we sent to our eduction friends at Sanger Prep (you can find all these blessings here).
If you want to join us in supporting our Classroom Cooperative at Alex Sanger Preparatory School, you can do so here.
If you missed worship, you can always find the Sunday Sit Down and Worship on our Facebook Page and our entire Sunday morning stream on our YouTube Channel.
Rev. Mitchell Boone concludes our series: "Being White Rock - Becoming Beloved Community" by preaching a sermon that could apply to any series and gets at the heart of who we are as a church.
Upon asking "Who is beloved," and "what does it mean to be beloved"? Mitchell speaks to our identity as human beings: we are beloved by God from the beginning. Not determined by what we do, how much we accomplish (or fail), but simply as God's creation - YOU ARE BELOVED.
In this sermon Mitchell reference Henri Nouwen. Nouwen wrote a lot about belovedness, check him out for a deeper dive. Mitchell also uses a white board as a visual during this sermon. You can watch the sermon here, on our YouTube channel.
Find out more about this series, and our church at bewrumc.org.
Rebecca, Mitchell, and Phil wrap up "Being White Rock - A Series on Becoming Beloved Community."
This week they talk about being beloved as the very essence and core of our identity. They also get extra nerdy and talk about the difference between kataphatic and apophatic, and what panentheism is. If you have no idea what those words mean or how they relate to being beloved, you will once you listen!
We want to hear from you. What stood out most to you from this worship series?
Did you have a favorite week/word: Belong, Believe, Become, Beloved?
Don't forget you can find the sermons, as well as the full worship recordings on our Facebook Page and YouTube channel. You can also find content from this series, including opportunities to purchase yard signs, here.
Phil, Rebecca & Mitchell continue discussing the Being White Rock worship series while talking process, 4 O'clock in the afternoon and movies about time.
Rebecca, Phil & Mitchell look at week 2 of our worship series Being White Rock. The conversation on this episode focuses on how we come to believe and how big a threshold we should create. Phil references this poet & Rebecca mentions this great book.
Rebecca, Mitchell & Phil talk about belonging and how important it is to use the liturgy to create space for new ideas.
Rebecca, Phil & Mitchell chat about how Ruth 1 reveals compassion. They also touch on the universal experience of grief. Phil references this book.
Justin joins the pod to help us discuss Mark 2, agency and how we can read scripture better.
Phil, Rebecca & Mitchell pull back the curtain on how we feel when things get off the rails, why children's emotional intelligence is a blessing for us all and communion being back in the digital space. Phil mentions this conversation in the podcast. And Rebecca mentions this Rachel Held-Evans book as well.
Rebecca, Phil & Mitchell continue the challenging conversation of extracting our nationalistic tendencies from our faith.
Rebecca, Phil & Mitchell talk about the vandalized banner, the ways we are so very lucky to be in East Dallas and what it means for the church to be in relationship with our neighbors.
Phil & Mitchell discuss the challenges of moving worship online. It's a good conversation of what the staff is thinking about behind the scenes.
Rebecca, Phil & Mitchell dismantle the phrase Love The Sinner, Hate The Sin while providing more insight on worship design.
Rebecca, Phil & Mitchell discuss how worship should be powered by the people. They also continue the examination of the phrase Everything Happens For A Reason. Also, here is the Ring Theory Rebecca mentioned about how we should converse with those who are grieving.
Rebecca & Josh spend some time discussing a great hymn, a weird story and the need to be ready before we go out into the world.
Phil & Mitchell swerve all over the road while talking all things Holy Spirit. Plus, Phil reveals why he is behind the times by admitting he hasn't kept up with the hottest documentary in the world today.
Rebecca, Phil, & Mitchell continue talking about worship and the sermon from yesterday. We know it was heavy. In this podcast we continue the conversation.
Rev. Phil Dieke joined the podcast to help us examine Psalm 23, why people put oil on sheep, and identity without degrading others.
Mitchell & Rebecca talk discuss light and darkness, sight, and the challenges posed by limiting what revelation looks like. This podcast centers on the beautiful story in Luke 24:19-35.
Rebecca & Mitchell discuss Thomas, the power of doubt, and people first language. They also reference Lisa Hancock's blog post about Jesus & quarantining which can be found right here.
Rebecca and Mitchell talk all things Easter and the joy of living in this new season within the church.
Rebecca & Mitchell discuss week 3 of online worship, the power of generosity, and how we can live out grace even though we may not feel it is adequate. For a video feed of this podcast, check out our youtube channel.
Rebecca & Mitchell talk about week 2 of our COVID-19 response and how we are continuing to be the Church even though we can't gather in the church.
Rebecca & Mitchell discuss online worship, the challenges of virtual community, and the opportunities for us to learn.
Phil jumps on the podcast with Mitchell for more conversation about FOMO and the way worship unfolds at WRUMC.
Rev. Mitchell Boone preaches from Luke 16 and encourages us to fight against the fear of missing out.
Rebecca, Kristina & Mitchell expand on Kristina's sermon and discuss the Lent altar display.
Rev. Kristina Roth-Klinck preaches on the challenge of climate change and the fear we have for our world. This sermon's text is found in John 3.
Rebecca & Mitchell talk about the transfigured Christ & what it means to reflect the Divine.
Rebecca & Mitchell discuss Abraham & Issac and a challenging text from yesterday's worship.
Rebecca & Mitchell discuss worship, the balance between music and preaching, and the difficulty of Sodom & Gomorrah.
Mitchell mentions some interesting articles in this podcast. Enjoy the links below.
Dr. George Athas - Has Lot Lost the Plot?
What is a plumb line?
Op-Ed from 1992 by Rev. Dr. Peter J. Gomes
Rebecca & Mitchell talk about growing up as kids in the church and the challenges of a God who destroys creation.
Rebecca & Mitchell discuss Adam, reference Danielle Shroyer's book Original Blessing, and talk MLK.
Rebecca and Mitchell recorded the first TDAS pod in 2020. They discuss sermon illustrations, the liturgical calendar, and the powerful communion song set brought to us by the folk band.
Rebecca and Mitchell read haunting lyrics of songs comparing the Holy Family to refugees.
Youtube: Away And In Danger
Josh Ritter: The Gospel Of Mary
Rebecca and Mitchell talk about yesterday's worship service which centered on telling the Christmas story through the arts.
Rev. Elizabeth Moseley delivers a powerful sermon inviting us to see the Christmas story through the empowerment of women. Her preaching Text: Luke 1: 39 - 56.
We talk about owning our idolatry and how important a well written Call to Worship is for a community.
Our new worship series, Shiny Gods, centers on the idols we have in our life. Our text for this Sunday is found in 2 Kings 17:35-41.
This sermon by Rev. Mitchell Boone focuses on the study component of White Rock UMC's Discipleship plan. The text for this sermon is Matthew 7:7-11.
This sermon by Rev. Mitchell Boone focuses on the serve component of White Rock UMC's Discipleship plan. The text for this sermon is Mark 9:30-37.
This podcast focuses on the importance of worship as a formative experience that makes us better disciples. Mitchell also has problems spelling the word tourniquet.
Rev. Mitchell Boone preaches on the importance of worship as a formative experience for those who follow Jesus.
Sermon Text: John 4:19-26
Rev. Mitchell Boone preaches on our 80th Anniversary as we continue exploring our Discipleship Plan.
Our first podcast in a series centered around yesterday's worship service. We take a closer look at the themes present and the way God was moving within our congregation.
A sermon delivered by Rev. Mitchell Boone introducing a new worship series focused on White Rock UMC's new discipleship plan.