The familiarity of the holidays can sometimes create a longing to escape to a different time filled with childlike awe and wonder. But, what if the perfect time is the…
In celebration of Christ the King Sunday, let's expand our understanding of the phrase 'Christ the King.' In doing so, we may become more aware of how to interact with…
We sometimes justify things that hurt people, especially in business. But Jesus calls us to listen, be honest, and be an advocate for the oppressed. How?
This has been an emotionally and spiritually exhausting time in our country. Look no further than the daily news. It is easy to despair. Seeking courage? Let’s do that together.
Discipleship is not about 'what I can get out of it' now, but about being so in love with Christ that you're willing to do whatever it takes to follow…
All Saints Sunday is a special time that is set aside to reflect on all those who have passed before us. Let us honor and celebrate their lives and the…
The Acts 4 church held everything as common possessions. They demonstrated why we can’t separate the way we live from the one who claims our heart. If Jesus is the…
What does it mean to be a generous church? It's people coming together to both receive and give. By doing so, we become part of something far greater than ourselves.…
A compelling reading of the Bible brings out life, redemption, creativity, and an outpouring of grace. Find out how you can read the written word in a way that it…
Manchester UMC is full of generous people, says Pastor Stephanie. 'They are the most gracious, loving people I have ever known.' Many things may attract worshipers to this church, but…
Does God exist to please me, or do I exist to please God? The answer makes all the difference in the journey we call life. Pastor Jim offers some insights.
Ever used the cry 'Uh Oh?' In nearly all instances, there's an opportunity for God's grace to enter your life. Join Rev. Steve Harbaugh as he shares some uh-oh moments…
Through God's grace we have a mechanism that helps us straighten up our relationships when they get out of whack. Here's how to restore them to a healthy state.
Finding a firm place to stand in a crisis is daunting. It's often in times grief...of loss...of fear that we feel God's presence has left us. But, in actuality it's…
Anyone who takes their faith seriously, and takes the Bible seriously, has the opportunity to add their own story to the Bible: they even have a RESPONSIBILITY to do so.
Our words, spoken or written, affect our lives and the lives of folks around us. So, how can we be sure they are for healing and not for harm. Sometimes…
It’s easy to ignore some of the inconsistencies in the Bible, picking and choosing. It’s more difficult actually using your experiences and thoughts to discern who God really is, both…
It's what's on the inside that counts, not outward appearances. We can't take ourselves so seriously that we begin to think we are superior and stop learning from others. Our…
The Bible is a kingdom book. It clearly says three things about politics and government. Find out what they are, and how you can stay on track in the political…
God lives in the present, and so should we. In fact, we are always in the presence of God, says Pastor Stephanie Lendt. But, we are often distracted and unaware.…
It’s your future. Where do you want to be 5-years from now? It’s good to have a plan, but what about those opportunities we never imagined would come along? Often,…
The Bible is a beautiful book, says Pastor Greg. It’s beautiful because it contains stories about how God relates to us, and we to God. When you see it in…
Where do you spend most of your time: the past, the future, or in the here and now? God lives in the present, says Pastor Stephanie. Here's why you should…
Setting boundaries is important. But, how do you do it without fear of how people will react, or keeping yourself from feeling guilty. Pastor Jim explores why setting boundaries might…
What's your backstory? For many of us, there are some things we’d just rather leave in the past. Yet, when we come to understand the power of our backstory, we…
If you had one last lesson to teach, one gem of wisdom to share, what would it be? That was the challenge for Pastor Winter, and you might be surprised…
Janis Joplin once said, ‘I can talk about music because I’m inside of it.’ Find the special thing you’re inside of, that God gave you to share. Lose yourself in…
Perhaps the standard of what 'success' looks like in the world is not what it looks like to God. Maybe the way we’ve done things before, is not the way…
The church should embody a heart of peace, even for those viewed as oppressors. How is this even possible? Sr. Pastor Greg Weeks explores some thoughts.
Who really is in charge? We strive to master our lives and our world, but there are some things only God can make happen. Here are some inspiring thoughts.
Christ has broken down ALL human distinctions. Will you embody this by caring for others who are unlike you in age, race, sexuality, gender, wealth, education, etc.? Find out how.
