Author Archives: Oak Chapel UMC

Hello, Oak Chapel friends, Thanks to all who attended the fellowship luncheon and celebration of my commissioning last Sunday after worship. Your presence was meaningful and the plaque and monetary gift are very much appreciated. I’m grateful for the support of Oak Chapel UMC on my journey to ordained ministry!   Last Sunday was alsoContinue reading “In A Nutshell | July 12, 2013”

Hello, Oak Chapel friends, I trust that each of you had a good Fourth of July, celebrating our nation’s birthday and the freedoms we have in our country. No matter what one’s nationality, though, true freedom is found in Jesus Christ and I pray that you are able to spend some time reflecting on thatContinue reading “In A Nutshell | July 5, 2013”

Hello, Oak Chapel friends, We’ve had a wonderful time at Vacation Bible School this week! Children of all ages have learned about God’s love and ways we can be in service to our family, friends, neighbors and community. It’s not too late to get in on the fun. You may join us tonight for ourContinue reading “In A Nutshell | June 28, 2013”

Hello, Oak Chapel friends, We had a wonderful week of holy conferencing at Lakeside. I am now home and excited to begin my third year of ministry among you. Many thanks to those who traveled to Lakeside on Tuesday night for the Service of Commissioning and Ordination. I am grateful for your presence and support.Continue reading “In A Nutshell | June 21, 2013”

Hello, Oak Chapel friends, What a beautiful morning! I am excited to join the youth this morning on their trip to Cedar Point and Youth Annual Conference. Please pray for travel mercies and that this will be both a fun and growing experience for them. Please also pray for Oak Chapel UMC’s Outreach event atContinue reading “In A Nutshell | June 14, 2013”

Hello, Oak Chapel friends, I had the privilege of spending this week at the University of Mount Union teaching worship to the new pastors attending Licensing School. It was a great way to connect with those in the early stages of their ministries and to build relationships with others serving in our conference. It wasContinue reading “In A Nutshell | June 7, 2013”

Hello, Oak Chapel friends, On Tuesday evening we completed our “Catch” study. For the last four months, the Administrative Council and others in the church have studied scriptures and prayerfully considered ways our church can become relentlessly outward focused. Our conversations were enthusiastic and fruitful, and we look forward to implementing plans to engage moreContinue reading “In A Nutshell | May 31, 2013”

Hello, Oak Chapel friends, In our United Methodist tradition, today (May 24) is Aldersgate Day. On this day in 1738, John Wesley experienced the ‘confirmation of his salvation by the grace of God’ during a meeting on Aldersgate Street in London. According to his journal, Wesley was discouraged that his enthusiastic gospel message had beenContinue reading “In A Nutshell | May 24, 2013”

Hello, Oak Chapel friends, Fifty days after the Resurrection of Jesus Christ the first Christians (who were mostly Jews) gathered to celebrate the Jewish festival known as Pentecost. At that gathering something so incredible happened that when writing about it, Luke, the author of the book of Acts, could only use metaphors. The sound ofContinue reading “In A Nutshell | May 17, 2013”

Hello, Oak Chapel friends, This Sunday is the final week in our “Be. Go. Do.” sermon series to help us prepare for our “Change the World” event on Saturday, May 18. This week’s sermon, based on Matthew 28: 16 – 20, is titled “Go and Come!” Go spread the word to your friends and neighbors,Continue reading “In A Nutshell | May 10, 2013”