Lent is a church season designed for self-reflection, repentance, and re-orienting our hearts and lives on Jesus, as we remember his sacrifice and the resurrection life he offers us. Join us in worship this Lent as we lean in to this holy season, whole-hearetdly pursuing spiritual practices and values that draw us closer to our Savior.
Ash Wednesday: This holy day reminds us of our mortality and need for God. Drive through the Crossroads Circle on February 22, from 6:30-8:30 a.m. for Ashes to Go, where a pastor will pray and impose ashes on your forehead. Join us for a bilingual service of repentance and renewal in the sanctuary at 7 p.m., held jointly with Fiesta Cristiana. Nursery will be available for children 3 and under.
Palm Sunday: In our 8:15 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. Traditional services, our Chancel Choir and chamber orchestra will present “A Journey to Hope” by Joseph Martin. This cantata uses a variety of traditional spirituals and tells of the ministry, passion, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. In our 9:35 a.m. Contemporary service we will celebrate with special music and narratives that tell the story from the Triumphant Arrival to the events of the Last Supper. Children are invited to join the palm branch processional at the beginning of the 9:35 and 11:00 services. Nursery is available.
Maundy Thursday: Join us on Thursday, April 6 at 7 p.m. service in the Prayer Labyrinth with communion to remember Jesus’ last supper and his command to love one another. (Service will be held in Crossroads if there is inclement weather.) Nursery is available.
Good Friday: Join us on Friday, April 7 at 7:00 p.m. in the sanctuary for a service remembering the seven last words spoken by Jesus Christ before his death. We will gather on this holy day to reflect on the crucifixion of our Lord through Scripture, music, and prayer. Nursery is available.
Easter Sunday: Join us to celebrate the resurrection of our Savior at our sunrise service at 6:30 a.m. in the Memorial Garden or at our 8:15, 9:35 or 11 a.m. Traditional services in the sanctuary or 9:35 or 11 a.m. Contemporary services in the CLC. Nursery is available.
In-Depth Journey to the Cross Bible Study: Join Pastor Laura on Wednesdays from 7-8 p.m. March 1 – 29 for a Bible study tracing the events leading up to Jesus’ crucifixion. Register on Church Center.
White Too Long Book Study: Mondays, 7 p.m., February 27 – April 10. This is an advanced book study for those who are on the journey toward antiracism. This study will invite participants to consider racism’s historical and lasting impact on American Christianity and theology. Led by Mary Danforth. Register on Church Center.
Bless This Lent Study: The Seekers Sunday School Class invites you to join them for Lent using Kate Bowler’s The Lives We Actually Have: 100 Blessings for Imperfect Days. The class meets on Sundays, 9:35-10:35 a.m. in DC 402. Contact Josey Snyder with questions.
Small Group for Lent: We have a variety of Sunday School and small groups that would love to have you! Check out the many options on Church Center and contact Pastor Laura if you would like help getting connected.
Pancake Supper: Join the United Methodist Men on February 22 from 5-7 p.m. in the CLC gym for a pancake supper before the Ash Wednesday service. $10 for adults, $5 for kids, $25 cap for families. All receipts go to the pastor’s discretionary fund, used to respond to emergency and special needs. Register on Church Center.
Wonderful Wednesdays: Dinners will be March 1 – April 12. Registration opens on Thursday the week prior, and closes Monday evening the week of. $10-$12 for adults, $5-6 for children, $30 cap for families.
Dinner with the Disciples: Join us Wednesday, March 29 from 6 – 7 p.m. for an interactive, family-friendly dinner where we will explore the Easter story with costumed guests, a skit, and intergenerational activities. This is a special edition of our typical Wonderful Wednesday meal and all are welcome. Dinner will be catered by Jason’s Deli ($10 adult/$5 child/$25 max). Register on Church Center no later than March 24.
Lean Into Lent Photo Challenge: Every week in Lent you will be invited to share a photo of how you are pursuing the spiritual practice or value explored in worship. Post your photo on social media using the hashtag #aumclent or email to Director of Contemporary Worship and Digital Media, Kevin Thompson. Your photos will be shared in worship each week.
Easter Cantata: Join us Sunday, April 2 in our 8:15 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. Traditional services as our Chancel Choir and chamber orchestra present “A Journey to Hope” by Joseph Martin. This cantata uses a variety of traditional spirituals and tells of the ministry, passion, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
You may join the Chancel Choir for a short-term commitment to sing in the Easter Cantata on Sunday, April 2. Rehearsals are Wednesday evenings at 7:30 p.m. in the choir room, beginning February 8. To join our seasonal choir, contact Todd Arant.
Easter Lilies: Order a lily to be displayed in our worship spaces in honor or in memory of loved ones on Easter Sunday. The deadline to place an order is midnight on Sunday, April 2. Lilies are $20 per dedication, and orders can be placed online through Church Center. Questions? Contact our flower coordinator, Jessica Grantham.
