Worship Preview 5.19.24 Pentecost - The Spirit is Moving

First United Methodist Church         

This Sunday: 10:30am – Pentecost Sunday: “The Spirit is Moving” Rev. Christopher Eshelman preaching. Scriptures: Acts 2:1-21, Ephesians 2:11-22

Join us Sunday at 10:30am as we celebrate Pentecost! Often known as “the birthday of the Church,” Pentecost falls 50 days after Easter and 10 days after the celebration of Jesus’ accension. You probably know the story… wind, tongues of fire, the disciples bursting forth from the locked room now boldly proclaiming Christ – and that people, specifically “Jews from every nation under heaven,” who have gathered for  the festival Shavuot, 50 days after Passover, hear, each in their own native tongue!

It is a story of renewal and transformation. In his speech to the crowds, Peter quotes the promises shared by the Prophet Joel, with God saying, “I will pour out my Spirit upon all flesh, and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams.”

Last week, I shared about John and Charles Wesley’s mother, Susanna. Her dedication to prayer and how she fulfilled the need for Bible study when the established church in Epworth was falling short. Her example inspired her sons, who in turn went on to found the Methodist movement that we are a part of today as the people of the United Methodist Church. The 3rd Sunday in May is known as “Heritage Sunday” among United Methodists, as it is the Sunday that generally falls closest to the experience John Wesley had at Aldersgate on May 24, 1738. Charles had had a similar awakening a few days earlier, so this week and next, we will continue to talk about the history of Methodism, our place in the larger history of God’s people, and in turn, explore where the Spirit is leading us today as the people of First United Methodist here in Fort Scott, Kansas.

Wherever you are on your journey of faith, we invite you to bring your deepest hopes and greatest questions to worship together at First United Methodist, where we gather with open hearts, open minds, and open arms.  Blessings on your journey.

Upcoming Events: 

Wednesday, May 22nd,  5:30–6:30pm: Feeding Families in His Name – this weekly free meal is available to everyone without obligation. A “to-go” meal is distributed under the portico at 301 S. National. A reminder: Please do not block nearby driveways while waiting. Thank you. If you would like to support this ministry, you can make donations online at www.firstumcfortscott.org/onlinegiving. 

Friday, May 24th, 1-4pm  Shepherd’s Center / Adventures in Learning

Our next session is Friday, May 24th from 1-4pm in First United Methodist’s Fellowship Hall (301 S National, enter off 3rd street). We will feature an aviation and service theme. Ron Wood will share the story of his service and surviving a helicopter crash, Ralph Carlson will share about his time as an Air Force pilot and Lynette Emerson will share information on her love of skydiving! It will be a great time of fellowship and learning! Intended for retired adults to encourage fellowship and lifelong learning, our programs are free and open to anyone who would like to attend. Refreshments provided. Mark your calendar for June 28, July 26, August 23, and September 27th as well! – and invite a friend!

June 17th – 21st, We are hosting VBS this year. We continue to partner with our friends at First Presbyterian but will host Vacation Bible School in our building this time. Mark your calendar for June 17th – 21st 5:30-8pm. Registration will open soon! Plan to bring your kids or grandkids for a great week of faith and fun rooted in Scripture and then celebrate with us at a combined worship service 10:30am, Sunday, June 23rdwith a potluck to follow!