A Special Gathering

Dear First Church Friends,

Pastors Keith and Becky asked me to share as a guest columnist for this edition of First Words. I am pleased to share with you an invitation to join us at a special gathering on the evening of Wednesday, April 27, 2022 in the Sanctuary at 7 p.m.

Our Reconciling Conversations group will be hosting this gathering. The purpose is to receive updated information on the work of Reconciling Ministries Network and to be able to ask questions about another Postponed General Conference for The United Methodist Church and impending separation. Our guest will be Helen Ryde, Home Missioner in The United Methodist Church, and an Area Organizer for RMN. Helen has visited our congregation many times in the last several years and we will welcome them warmly.

Dr. William Everett is the Convener of Reconciling Conversations in our church. I am one of the retired UMC bishops who has chosen First UMC as my place of worship and living out my Christian discipleship. Bill Everett and I will be with Helen to share in the presentation and be available to respond to questions.

There will be a Wednesday evening Meal and Conversation at Table in the Gym at 5:30 p.m. prior to the Gathering. We hope you can join us for this opportunity for fellowship as well. You are invited to bring friends and guests who might be interested in this topic as well.

In this season of Lent, may your Journey of Reflection to the Cross and Resurrection of Jesus be a time of transformation, deepening of faith, and joy.

With you on the Journey,
Bishop Charlene Kammerer