CJ's Communiqué November 2011

This year marks the 400th anniversary of the King James Version Bible. For many centuries the common people were not allowed to read scripture. Through scholarly translation while hiding behind secret doors, much of the Bible was translated into everyday language of the people. Several of these translators were burned at the stake or declared heretics for their knowledge and translation of scripture. In the 17th century King James had the Bible translated into English and was available for all to read and soon became the “book for all people for all ages!”

John Wesley attributed his intellectual pursuits and ministry to “sola Scriptura,” Scripture alone, the authority and inspiration for holy living, preaching and teaching. Wesley confirms Scripture in his writings. “God himself has condescended to teach the way; for this very end he came from heaven. He hath written it down in a book. Oh give me that book! At any price, give me the book of God! I have it: here is knowledge enough for me. ”Let me be homo unius libri” (a man of only one book) (Albert C. Outler and Richard P. Heitzenrater, John Wesley’s Sermons: An Anthology. Nashville, TN: Abingdon Press, 1991, 89).

Is your passion for the one Book that is “for all people for all ages?” Later this month I will provide some devotional materials during National Bible Week that will target the importance of reading God’s Word. Please join together as a congregation to celebrate God’s Word “that will never pass away” (Matt 24:35).

(Weekly so you will not be “weakly”)

1. Wednesday at 4 PM, Bible Study with Rev. Ray –studying the letter to the Romans. Please come and join us in sharing the word together. All are invited to study the Book!
2. Wednesday at 5 PM, Dinner and Worship –we come for fellowship around the table for both physical and spiritual nurture. We eat together then share in singing, prayer, and a devotional time. All are welcome.
3. Wednesday st 7:30 PM, Study with Rev. Ray and Rev. Cathee –we are discovering the spiritual growth of the disciples and how they met Jesus. We meet in rm. 210 –all are welcome.
4. Sunday School at 10 AM every Sunday for all ages.
5. Sunday at 11:30 AM, Young Disciples Ministry: Children’s ministry for kids ages 4 through 2nd grade. We are focusing on being lifetime disciples! Extra teachers are needed so please contact Rev. Miles
6. Tuesday at 4 PM: High 5 Alive for kids. We are opening the gym for kids to come after school and have some activity time. Kids ages 6 to 12 are welcome!

Hearts Strangely Warmed is Saturday, November 5 at Flint Bethel UMC. Join us for a day with Bishop Robert Schnase (of the Missouri Conference) that will help shape us into effective disciples. Using material from Five Practices of Fruitful Living, we will receive honest, practical, and winsome guidance for our walk with Christ. By repeating and deepening certain fundamental practices, we cooperate with God in our spiritual growth. These five practices - to receive God's love, to love God in return, to grow in Christ, to serve others, and to give ourselves fully - are key in helping us grow and develop spiritually so we can settle ourselves in God and become instruments of God's grace. Following Christ will change your heart; and through you, God will change the world. You may register online or by mail. Forms and information are in the East Hall and online at www.detroitconference.org/events/detail/1672. The cost is $25 per person and the book can also be purchased for $5.

Women’s Emmaus Walk in Redford –November 3-6. For more info go to www.emsem.org and participate in community prayer and sharing God’s love. If you would like to attend a Walk to Emmaus, contact Rev. Miles, Sammye VanDiver, Betsey Arnold, Gwen MacIntyre, or Dale Thomas. We would be happy to assist you. Remember: God loves you and so do we!

11-11-11 –Does that date have significance? Yes, join many other Christians from around the country to pray for Detroit. This gigantic prayer vigil will be held at Ford Field beginning at 6:30 pm and will continue for 24-hours. Come for an hour or more and participate in The Call: Detroit.

Journey to Bethlehem is coming Friday, December 2. More servant leaders are needed for hospitality, setting up, and many other places to assist. If you do not call me, I will be calling you!

Angel Tree Ministry –Gifts for children of incarcerated parents. We will be buying gifts again this year and only 1 gift per child. Please contact Shelly Cosper or Rev. Miles for more info. Tags will be filled as soon as ATM sends the info. Merry Christmas!

In service to our Lord,
Rev. Cathee Miles
Minister of Discipleship and Spiritual Formation