Highlands UMC Denver

Advent is upon us

2009-11-25T13:05:00.003-07:00

In case anyone out there is wondering why this blog has not been updated in 2 months, it's because I used to manage this blog as a way to post current events at church because someone else was managing the website and we didn't always get pages updated in a timely way. But now that I am updating the official church site myself, the blog has fallen by the wayside. Sorry about that. I'll try to find ways to make the blog more complementary, less redundant.

But even as we prepare to give thanks and stuff our faces tomorrow (is that just me? no? I didn't think so), we are also heading into one of my favorite liturgical seasons: Advent. We take four weeks before Christmas to prepare for the coming of Christ, both through readings from the prophets and the gospels about the promised Messiah, and through some apocalyptic readings about the completion of God's purposes for the world that, to be honest, are a lot harder for those of us who find meaning in a progressive approach to Christianity. So if you want to hear how I reconcile the texts about the signs in the heavens and the end of the world with my belief in a God who is at work primarily in the natural and human processes of evolution and creativity, show up this Sunday! My sermon is called "Back to the Future," and I'll explore Jeremiah 33:14-16 and Luke 21:25-36.

Check out our main website for information on current and upcoming Sunday school classes for adults, discussion of The Shack, Advent vespers services, opportunities to help those in need, and more. We have a lot going on at Highlands UMC these days, and we would be delighted to have you join us!

Meeting Cancelled; Rummage Sale & Pastor @ the Pub this weekend

2009-09-21T16:16:00.005-06:00

Tonight's Administrative Council meeting has been rescheduled to October 12 at 6:30 p.m. We hope to see representatives from all the committees then.

Don't forget -
If you have been saving up some household goods and other items for a yard sale, you are in luck! The church will host a rummage sale on Saturday, September 26, 8am - 2pm, with proceeds to go toward a mission trip being planned for spring/summer 2010. You can bring items to donate to the church during office hours (9am - 12pm, 1 - 3pm, Monday - Thursday), during the "pricing party" Friday 4pm - 7pm, or call to arrange a different time for drop-off.

And Pastor Kerry will be facilitating a new monthly discussion about God called Pastor @ the Pub. All are welcome – including your friends who won’t set foot inside a church building – to come and talk about God, faith, spirituality, the Bible, Jesus, or whatever questions you were told not to ask in Sunday school! You don’t have to commit to coming every month, and it’s okay to just drop in to check it out. Pastor Kerry will bring some discussion starters, and we'll take it from there. First round is Sunday, September 27, 5pm at El Camino on West 32nd Ave - we'll be a group gathering for conversation at one of the tables, not an official event of El Camino. Look for Pastor Kerry and the "Pastor @ the Pub" table tents.

Show-up Sunday and new ministries!

2009-09-09T17:32:00.000-06:00

The summer went by incredibly quickly, and here it is September once again. This Sunday, September 13, is "Show-up Sunday" (formerly known as Kick-off Sunday), a time to come together and enjoy being in community again after a summer of travel, outdoor activities, or other commitments. Pastor Betty will invite us to "Rethink Church" - what if church were not a noun, but a verb?

Friday, September 18 will be our fall Game Night, starting at 6pm. Kids, adults, families, singles, couples, everyone is welcome to come and bring your favorite game or just join in with others. Bring your favorite game, a snack to share and $5/child toward child care if you have little ones. Hope to see you there!

Administrative Council will meet Monday, September 21 at 6:30 p.m. Chairs of committees are expected to attend; anyone else interested in the life of the church is welcome.

If you have been saving up some household goods and other items for a yard sale, you are in luck! The church will host a rummage sale on Saturday, September 26, with proceeds to go toward a mission trip being planned for spring/summer 2010. Details coming soon!

Finally, Pastor Kerry will be facilitating a monthly discussion about God called Pastor @ the Pub. All are welcome – including your friends who won’t set foot inside a church building – to come and talk about God, faith, spirituality, the Bible, Jesus, or whatever questions you were told not to ask in Sunday school! You don’t have to commit to coming every month, and it’s okay to just drop in to check it out. First round is Sunday, September 27, 5pm at El Camino on West 32nd Ave. We'll be a group gathering for conversation at one of the tables, not an official event of El Camino. Look for Pastor Kerry and the "Pastor @ the Pub" table tents.

Survey Results

2009-09-09T17:07:00.001-06:00

Summary of Christian Education & Ministry Survey Results

Thank you to all who responded to the recent survey about Christian education and other ministry activities. In case you are wondering what we learned from the results, here is a brief summary of the highlights:

49 people took the survey; 40 completed it. Of those who completed the survey, 3 were age 30 or younger, 18 were 31-45, 11 were 46-60, and 8 were 61 or older. 18 reported having children or youth in their household.

Interest in adult Christian education was substantial (16 would come twice a month or more), though many expressed a commitment level entirely dependent on the topic. Sunday mornings and evenings had the greatest amount of interest.

Several topics struck people as interesting enough to attend:

Spirituality (28)
Theology: discussions about God (24)
Bible study/learning about the Bible (23)
Ethics or social issues (22)
Learning about other religions (21)
Topics that relate directly to my life (20)

Ministries, programs, and other activities that received significant interest included:

Bible study (15)
Book discussions (12)
Movie discussions (16)
Seasonal study (12)
Short-term topical discussions (19)
Open discussions (10)
Social activities with others in my stage of life (13)
Social activities with people of all ages (e.g., game night) (16)
Opportunities to serve people in need (16)
Women's group (9)

Most of these had the highest number of responses under the medium priority level ("I'd probably come if I'm not too busy"). Which confirms what we suspected: this is a congregation of busy people! However, movie discussions, all-age social activities, and opportunities to serve people in need each received 5 or more responses that indicated a high priority, people who would definitely come.

Pastor Betty and I will make use of this information in conversation with lay leaders to determine our plans and priorities for ministry this year. Thanks again for sharing your perspective!

Grace and peace,
Pastor Kerry

August already: Bread & Movies

2009-07-29T16:21:00.002-06:00

This Sunday, August 2, is the ninth Sunday after Pentecost, in a season known in the church as Ordinary Time. Pastor Kerry will be preaching on John 6:24-35, and the service will include Holy Communion. ALL people are welcome at Christ's table.

Next Sunday, August 9, the sermon will reflect on the movie The Visitor. As always, viewing the movie is not required to understand the sermon. We will also be blessed by harp music from Rebecca and Sean Moritzky.

Hope to see you Sunday!

Ordination Celebration

2009-06-26T17:18:00.002-06:00

This Sunday, June 28, Pastor Kerry will preach on her experience of being called into ordained ministry, "Let Your Life Speak" (taken from the title of a book by Parker Palmer). Following worship, all are invited to stay for a potluck dinner to celebrate Pastor Kerry's ordination as a Deacon, which took place last Saturday in the New England Annual Conference.

Vacation Bible School is coming up fast - our theme this year is Camp E.D.G.E.: Experience and Discover God Everywhere! Thursday and Friday evenings and Saturday morning, July 9-11. Visit our main site for more information.

Summer Movie Sermon Series Begins!

2009-06-10T23:11:00.003-06:00

This Sunday, June 14, Pastor Betty will preach on The Bucket List in the first of our summer movie sermon series. You are encouraged to see the movie ahead of time if you can, but if not, the sermon will still make sense.

In case you want to line up your library hold or Netflix cue now, some of the other movies planned for this summer include The Secret Life of Bees, The Visitor, and Snow Cake. We are spreading the series out over the summer, so stay tuned for details!

The Highlands Street Fair is coming up, and this year our booth will focus on our children's programs: Parents' Day Out and Vacation Bible School.

On Sunday, June 21, we will have Rev. Heidi McGinness as our guest preacher while Pastor Betty and Pastor Kerry are at New England Annual Conference for Pastor Kerry's ordination. Pastor Heidi has come to Highlands previously to share about her work bringing aid to displaced people in the Darfur region of Sudan.

Hope to see you at Highlands UMC sometime soon!

Garden Workday Postponed

2009-06-02T16:15:00.004-06:00

The work day for this Saturday, June 6 has been canceled. The flower beds have already been cleaned out. Also, Kay and Bob Upton are mixing compost into our community garden and planting our beginning plants. The raised beds that will on the south side of the church will be built after the windows are painted. The second phase of the Sacred Surroundings grant will begin soon. The outside of the windows will be scraped and painted.

After the cleaning out of the beds, the church garden could use low in height, blooming annuals and perennials to fill in the empty spaces. If you have some in your garden or wish to purchase flowers, please bring them to the church and we will make sure they get planted. If you're interested in helping with the raised beds or maintaining the garden, please let us know!

Highlands UMC is a Reconciling Congregation! New members welcome to join this Sunday.

2009-05-26T18:58:00.003-06:00

After approximately 9 months of intentional prayer, conversation, education, and discernment, the congregation voted on May 17 to become a Reconciling Congregation, with a public statement of welcome and affirmation of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgendered people. The vote passed by an overwhelming majority, affirming the following statement of welcome to be true for our church:

Highlands United Methodist Church embraces Jesus' message that God loves and accepts every person, and so our welcome knows no boundaries. In the name and spirit of Jesus, we welcome people of every age, race, ethnicity, culture, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital status, physical or mental ability, and economic condition into full participation in the life and leadership of our congregation.

Thank you to all who have taken part in the process, for the humility, love, and grace you have shown to each other in this matter and in all things. We continue to pray for God's guidance as our church moves forward into the future.

This Sunday, May 31, is Pentecost, a time when we celebrate the birth of the church in the story of the Holy Spirit moving among the disciples after Jesus' death and the Resurrection appearances. We will be welcoming new members to join Highlands UMC during worship; if you are interested in learning more, please contact the church office.

Potluck & Reconciling Vote this Sunday

2009-05-12T16:58:00.003-06:00

After several months of prayer, study, conversation, and discernment, Highlands UMC members and active participants will vote this Sunday, May 17, on whether to become a Reconciling Congregation and adopt a public statement of welcome and affirmation of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgendered persons in the life and leadership of our church. This is a natural extension and expression of the identity of what has been a welcoming congregation for many years, but since so many churches are not fully affirming, our church leadership has determined that the time has come to prayerfully consider making a public statement.

After worship, instead of our usual coffee/fellowship hour, we will have a potluck lunch. You can call the church office (303-477-5857) to find out what kind of dish the Hospitality Committee suggests you bring (based on last name), but if you have a specialty that doesn't match your assignment, go ahead and bring what works for you! All are welcome to enjoy the food and fellowship.

When it comes time for the vote, we ask that only those who have been actively involved at Highlands for at least the past 4 months (since we announced these criteria in January) fill out a ballot. Plans are underway to offer an absentee vote option; more information should be available by Thursday morning.

Please continue to keep our church in prayer as we seek to know and follow the Spirit's leading. If you have questions, you may contact Pastor Betty or Pastor Kerry via the church office.

Who needs a shepherd, anyway?

2009-05-01T11:19:00.002-06:00

This Sunday, May 3, Pastor Kerry will preach on Psalm 23 and John 10:11-18. We will celebrate Holy Communion - all are welcome in worship and at Christ's table.

We are also pleased to welcome the cast of Curtains Up! Theatre Company's production of Godspell to share two songs with us in worship.

Visit our main website to learn more about Highlands UMC.

Holy Week & Easter

2009-04-07T16:28:00.004-06:00

Instead of our traditional Maundy Thursday service, this year Highlands UMC will observe a Passover seder. All are welcome at 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, April 9 for an experience of the Jewish tradition in which Jesus lived, followed by a brief Communion service when we acknowledge that the Last Supper of Jesus' life was a Passover meal.

ALL kinds of families are invited to our Easter Egg Hunt on Saturday, April 11, beginning at 9:30 a.m. Children will begin by decorating bags in which to collect their eggs, and then will divide up by age to search throughout the historic Highlands UMC building. Please contact the church office if you would like to know more about this event.

And of course, everyone is welcome to come and celebrate the Resurrection with us on Easter Sunday, April 12. Worship is at 10:00 a.m., and includes choir, organ, Communion, lilies, a thoughtful message to connect with our lives today, and the Hallelujah Chorus. The sanctuary is usually quite full on Easter, so you may want to come a little early to find parking and a good seat.

Highlands UMC is a welcoming and affirming, intergenerational community of faith where ALL people are welcome in worship and at the Communion table. We would love to get to know you and walk together a ways on the journey of faith!

Game Night, Get to Know HUMC, Women's Retreat

2009-03-13T15:47:00.002-06:00

Late notice, I know, but tonight is Game Night at Highlands UMC! Come over from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. with your favorite game, a snack to share, friends and neighbors, or just yourself. There will be child care for the youngest kids and fun for all ages as we enjoy laughter and one another's company.

Next Sunday, March 22, we will have an information session for anyone interested in learning more about Highlands UMC or the United Methodist Church more generally. Starting about 11:30 a.m. (so you'll get to enjoy part of coffee hour after worship), we'll head up to the 3rd floor. All ages and backgrounds are welcome.

Attention women: There is still time and room to sign up for the annual Women's Retreat! Friday, March 27 we will head up to the YMCA of the Rockies at Estes Park, returning on Sunday, March 29. We will eat some of our meals in the dining hall and prepare others in the lodge. We will have time for prayer, discussion, laughter, rest, and friendship. Please contact the church office to learn more.

Baking for Bibles!

2009-02-26T15:44:00.003-07:00

Don't forget, this Saturday is Baking for Bibles - kids, families, and adult volunteers are welcome!

When: Saturday, February 28th, 2:00 - 5:00 pm

Where: Highlands United Methodist Church, fellowship hall (1st floor)

Why: The kids will spend some time baking some goodies on Saturday (Feb. 28) to sell to the people at church on Sunday, March 1, during coffee hour. The money raised will go towards purchasing Bibles for the 7-11 year old Sunday School classroom. We currently have a variety of bibles, none of which are the same. It is hard for the kids to follow along while reading the scriptures in class. Because Bibles can be expensive, the church cannot afford to buy 10 new Bibles. So, we are going to raise the money to buy them!

Other Activities: We will also play games, watch a movie, and have some coloring pages for the kids.

Come, one and all for some fun for a good cause!

Ash Wednesday and Lent

2009-02-24T10:01:00.003-07:00

Wednesday, February 25 is Ash Wednesday, marking the beginning of the season of Lent. We walk the sometimes difficult path of discipleship with Jesus, from the desert wilderness to the cross. Easter is much more meaningful when its resurrection power has broken through from a place of acknowledging the death-dealing powers of the world.

The practice of a Lenten discipline such as fasting - whether from food or from a creature comfort, distraction, or bad habit - is not aimed at punishing the body or heaping guilt upon one's head, but instead seeks to turn our attention toward God. Some people find that adding a discipline, instead of doing without something, is more meaningful. We believe that the desire to please God is pleasing to God, and that we become what we habitually do.

Highlands UMC offers a sacrificial breakfast and service with imposition of ashes, beginning at 7am in the 2nd floor parlor. All are welcome as we reflect on this wilderness season of repentance (turning) and discipline (committed, intentional practice).

This Sunday, March 1, is the 1st Sunday in Lent. Pastor Betty will preach on Mark 1:9-15. Please join us as we journey to the heart of the Christian life and calendar.

Women's Retreat 2009

2009-02-11T16:09:00.003-07:00

All women are invited to participate in our annual Highlands UMC Women's Retreat, this year to be held at YMCA of the Rockies in Estes Park, March 27-29. We'll carpool from the church about 3:30 p.m. on Friday and return by 1pm on Sunday.

The cost is dependent on how many women attend, but will be around $90.00, including three meals. We will bring food to share for the other meals.

This is a time of spiritual growth, fellowship and fun. We always have a theme that we explore through discussion, art, etc. We play cards, tell jokes and generally have a great time.

Please let the church know if you would like to attend. Feel free to invite a friend.

Reconciling Ministry Process

2009-01-27T14:42:00.004-07:00

If you are reading this blog, you may already know that Highlands UMC is in the process of deciding whether to become a Reconciling Congregation. We are already a church with a warm and welcoming spirit of hospitality, and we are discerning how God is leading us forward to live that out in our community.

Reconciling Congregations are churches that have approved an official and public statement of welcome that affirms lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgendered persons to full participation in the life and leadership of the congregation. You can learn more about this at the Reconciling Ministries Network. Individuals can also sign up as "Reconciling United Methodists."

The next step in our process is a Bible study called Claiming the Promise, an ecumenical, welcoming Bible Study resource on homosexuality. This seven-week Bible study will give our congregation an opportunity to study the Bible together and discuss the issue of full inclusion of Gay, Lesbian, Transgendered and Bisexual persons into Highlands UMC. Claiming the Promise:

Examines biblical references to same-sex conduct in light of the broader biblical message which affirms we are children or heirs of the Promise.
Explores biblical authority and biblical interpretation.
Discusses "gracious hospitality," "gift-ed sexuality," and "inclusive holiness."
Tackles hard questions of "right relationship," lust/love, and sexual responsibility.
Calls us to live out the Promise as reconciling disciples.

We are offering this study at two different times:

Tuesday evening 7:00 - 8:30 PM, Feb. 3 through March 17
or Wednesday afternoon 1:00 - 2:30 PM, Feb. 4 through March 18

Pastor Betty and Pastor Kerry will lead these studies. The participant book costs $6.00. If you cannot attend the sessions but are interested in the study, we can still order a book for you.

If you would like to take part but have not yet signed up, please contact the church office immediately. We have placed an initial order for study books, but may still be able to get additional copies in time for our first sessions next week.

May God's Spirit continue to move in your life!

Newsworthy week

2009-01-21T14:23:00.002-07:00

The co-occurrence of Human Relations Sunday, Martin Luther King, Jr., Day, and the Inauguration of a new and historically significant president this week are not coincidence, but together they bear powerful witness to the statement of Rev. Theodore Parker, better known for being quoted by Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.: "The arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends toward justice." As we give thanks for the progress that humankind has made toward a world where justice and peace are universally recognized as more powerful than oppression and violence, we also acknowledge how much work remains to be done, and we ask God's guidance not only for our new president, but for all people.

For the latest news at Highlands UMC, be sure to get our January-February 2009 newsletter, now available. If you are not on the email list, please contact the church office to get connected.

This Sunday, January 25, Pastor Betty will preach on the call of the disciples, Mark 1:14-20. Faith Café continues at 9am on the 3rd floor - come and take part in some good conversations about questions of faith and spirituality. Hope you'll join us!

Human Relations Sunday and introducing Faith Café!

2009-01-14T16:27:00.002-07:00

This Sunday, January 18 we will observe Human Relations Sunday, reflecting on both humanity's struggles with various forms of violence and oppression, and the progress we have made toward a society that better reflects God's reign of justice, compassion, and peace.

Also beginning this week, Highlands UMC will offer a gathering place for discussion and fellowship from 9:00 - 9:45 a.m. in the 3rd floor Adult Sunday School room. The Faith Café will offer a coffee machine with specialized coffees and tea. TableTopics, Spirit Edition, question cards will available as conversation starters. Pour a cup of coffee, introduce yourself, pick a card and chat.

Sample questions from TableTopics:

Which religious event would you like to have been witness to?
What is integrity and do you have it?
Where do you see the divine in your daily life?

Everyone is invited to come whenever they are able to attend. Parents with children in choir or Sunday school will find this a welcoming place to gather while your children participate in the life of the church. Stop on by - the Faith Café opens this Sunday!

Ordinary Time

2009-01-10T13:22:00.003-07:00

Having passed Epiphany last Sunday, we enter once again into the liturgical season of Ordinary Time. This Sunday, January 11 is the first Sunday after Epiphany, when traditionally we observe the "Baptism of the Lord." Pastor Betty is preaching on Acts 19:1-7.

On Sunday, January 18 we will observe Human Relations Sunday, reflecting on both humanity's struggles with various forms of violence and oppression, and the progress we have made toward a society that better reflects God's reign of justice, compassion, and peace.

Stay tuned for information on our upcoming Bible study, Claiming the Promise, to begin in early February.

12 days of Christmas

2008-12-27T21:16:00.000-07:00

Did you know that December 25 is actually only the first day of Christmas? There are a full 12 days to celebrate the birth of Jesus and the mystery of the Incarnation between Christmas Day and Epiphany, celebrated on January 6.

This Sunday, December 28, we welcome guest preacher Rev. Tom English as we continue our celebration of Christmastide. Next week, January 4, Pastor Betty and Pastor Kerry return for the beginning of the season of Epiphany. Hope you'll join us!

Blue Christmas & Children's Worship

2008-12-16T16:27:00.002-07:00

This week we have two special opportunities for worship:

Blue Christmas: Thursday, December 18 at 7:00 p.m. in the second floor parlor - A service of hope and comfort for all who struggle during the holidays.

Children's Worship Service: Sunday, December 21 at 10:00 a.m. - Our children will lead us to Bethlehem and the mystery of the stable with song and drama. Our presence is our gift to the children as we encourage their life of faith, and their faith and witness is their gift to us.

And of course, next week is our Christmas Eve service of Carols, Communion and Candlelight: Wednesday, December 24 at 7:00 p.m. All are invited to a spirit-filled time of beautiful music and a thoughtful message about who it is we welcome at Christmas.

Bring family, friends, neighbors, coworkers, or just yourself and your questions! All are welcome at Highlands UMC, an open and affirming intergenerational community of faith.

3rd week of Advent

2008-12-08T13:57:00.002-07:00

This Sunday, December 14, Pastor Betty will preach on 1 Thessalonians 5:16-24. All are welcome as we consider how to prepare for the birth of Christ once again.

In addition to the various Advent announcements and activities below, those interested in caroling for Holiday in the Highlands this Sunday are invited to rehearse Wednesday evening 6:30 - 7:00 p.m. before choir rehearsal.

Advent, Advent, Advent!

2008-12-03T17:14:00.005-07:00

Advent has begun! We are hoping, preparing, waiting, and watching for how God will come to us in new ways this holy season. There are many opportunities to participate in our faith community this month, and ALL people are welcome!

This Sunday, December 7, Pastor Betty is preaching on "Revolutionary Peace," based on Mark 1:1-8. This week is also Holy Communion, which we celebrate the first Sunday of each month. All are welcome at Christ's table.

Pastor Kerry is leading an Advent study Wednesday afternoons 3:00 - 4:00 p.m. called "What Do You Want for Christmas?" Even if you missed the first week, you are welcome to join us!

On Thursday, December 18, we will offer a "Blue Christmas" service at 7:00 p.m. in the parlor on the 2nd floor. This is a sacred space and time for all who struggle during the holidays, whether because of grief, loneliness, abuse, economic hard times, depression, or other reasons. We find that hope is most meaningful when we can acknowledge the realities of life.

Our children are eagerly preparing their Christmas play, Mystery in the Stable, which will be presented on Sunday, December 21 during our 10am worship service. If you would like your child(ren) to participate, you can learn more at our Children's Ministry page, or you can contact the church office.

Blessings on you and your family as you prepare to welcome Christ once again!

Happy Thanksgiving! ... and welcome, Advent!

2008-11-24T09:48:00.003-07:00

May you have much to be thankful for this Thanksgiving holiday. And if you have much to be thankful for, may you know your blessings to be a means for blessing others.

This Sunday, November 30, is the first Sunday of Advent, the season of preparation for the coming of Jesus. We spend four Sundays considering Hope, Peace, Love, and Joy as we both prepare for the celebration of Jesus' birth and anticipate Jesus coming among us again. This week Pastor Kerry is preaching on Isaiah 64:1-9 and Mark 13:24-37, some difficult texts that invite us to consider what it means to hold onto "Wild Hope" as we enter Advent.

An Advent study called "What Do You Want for Christmas" will be offered Wednesdays 3:00 - 4:00 p.m., led by Pastor Kerry, and Sunday mornings 9:00 - 9:50 a.m. (Sunday leadership TBA). Contact the church office to learn more.

We hope you'll join us for worship Sunday at 10:00 a.m. Sunday School meets at 9:00 a.m.; child care is available throughout the morning. ALL are welcome!

Consecration Sunday and Thanksgiving

2008-11-14T11:12:00.003-07:00

We were delighted to welcome four new members to Highlands UMC last week. If you are interested in joining, being baptized, or having your child baptized, please contact the church office and ask to speak to a pastor, or come by on Sunday morning to experience our growing intergenerational Christian community for yourself!

This Sunday, November 16, we will consecrate our commitments to the church in the form of pledging our financial giving and the ways we serve. Stewardship is not only about money, but it is a question of how we care for, use, and honor all the gifts and resources available to us. When we believe that all good gifts come from God, it makes sense to offer up a portion of those gifts toward the building of God's kin'dom.

Next week, November 23, we celebrate a time of Thanksgiving in preparation for the national holiday. Bring your own thankfulness or borrow someone else's!

All Saints' Sunday and Conflict Resolution Workshops

2008-10-27T16:23:00.002-06:00

This Sunday, November 2, Highlands UMC will observe All Saints' Sunday, including a reading of names of loved ones who have died in the past year. If you would like to remember someone during this service, please send that person's name to the church office (email link at right) to be included. This is always a special service, and this year we are blessed to have harp and violin music in addition to the reading of names, lighting of candles, and Communion (all are welcome at Christ's table).

Beginning this Sunday: In our ongoing process of learning to offer Christian love and grace to everyone, Pastor Betty is offering workshops designed to help us resolve conflict in healthy ways. These workshops are free and open to everyone in our congregation. I hope you will make attending a priority in your busy lives.

You may choose from the following:

Sunday mornings - November 2, 9, 16 & 23 from 9:-9:45 a.m. (Adult Sunday School)
Wednesday afternoons - November 5 and 12 from 3:00 - 4:30 PM
Thursday evenings - November 6 and 13 from 6:30 - 8:00 PM

Workshops will meet on the 3rd floor. Please prayerfully consider attending these informative sessions.

Stewardship Campaign, Forums on "Bridges Out of Poverty"

2008-10-13T13:21:00.004-06:00

Ah, fall... with the leaves turning golden, the first really cold snap, and the smell of wood smoke in the air, you know it's that time again... time for the stewardship campaign! Beginning this Sunday, we will explore the many ways people can participate in and support the ministries of Highlands UMC, from children's ministry to finance committee to missions to trustees.

Our theme is drawn from our children's time prayer: In all that we think, in all that we say, in all that we do, may we glorify You. We invite you to prayerfully consider how you are active in our congregation, and whether there is some area in which you might expand the ways you contribute in the coming year, whether through your prayers, your presence, your gifts, your service, or your witness.

This Sunday, October 19, you are invited to stay after worship for a spaghetti supper hosted by the Missions Committee, where your donations will go towards purchasing supplies to fill Christmas stockings for HeadStart children.

We also would like to bring to your attention a four-week series of forums at Trinity UMC downtown on "Bridges Out of Poverty." Please consider joining others from across the Denver area to learn more about how we can be involved in building a stronger community for all people.

Bridges Out of Poverty

Trinity United Methodist Church, one of the partner agencies with Hunger for Justice, is hosting four weeks of forums called "Bridges Out of Poverty." Learn more about the transformation that is taking place throughout our community and the challenges that still remain. The forums are from 7 - 9 pm on Thursday nights at Trinity, 1820 Broadway, Denver. (Free parking is available in the lot north of the church).

Rev.Daniel Klawitter, UMDeacon and religious organizer for FRESC, will open the forum Oct. 16 with Deborah Ortega and Shawn DeBerry.

Brad Wood, Executive Director for Hunger for Justice will speak about advocacy work and systemic challenges on October 23rd. You are encouraged to attend any or all of these.

Oct. 16 - How Far Have We Come Along “Denver’s Road Home?” Deborah Ortega, Executive Director of Denver’s Commission to End Homelessness-Shawn Deberry –Mayor Hickenlooper’s Clergy Council– Rev. Daniel Klawitter, Religious Outreach FRESC

Oct. 23 - Bridging the Culture of Poverty with the Culture of Possibility - William Lewis, Program Director, Denver Urban Ministries –Brad Wood, Ex. Dir., Hunger for Justice, Interfaith Voices Against Poverty

Oct. 30 –What’s Working? Cecilia Broder, Mile High United Way- Don & Lynn Burns, Families & Allies - Rev. Tina Yankee, Turnabout Inc.

Nov. 6 - How You Can Be the Change –Personal Support Networks-Mickey Axtell-Mauck, Families & Allies

World Communion & feeding the hungry

2008-10-02T01:03:00.000-06:00

This Sunday, October 5, is World Communion Sunday.
Each year the global Church celebrates together the remembrance of Christ. All around the world, Christians will come to the table. Highlands UMC serves open Communion: everyone is welcome at the table.

Next Saturday, October 11, is CROP Walk!
Each year Highlands UMC participates in the Northwest Denver CROP walk to raise money for local food banks and to provide food for people in starving countries. We would love for you to walk with us or sponsor our walkers. Contact the church for more information. Come and join the fellowship!

A Tale of Two Brothers & A Welcome Potluck

2008-09-24T22:50:00.002-06:00

Our sermon text for this week is Matthew 21:23-32. After worship, you are invited to stay for a potluck lunch. Bring a dish to share and come enjoy the fellowship of Highlands UMC!

Kick-off Sunday!

2008-09-06T22:19:00.002-06:00

No, it's not a church football league (though if you're interested in starting one, let us know...), it's the Sunday after Labor Day when we call "Olly olly oxen free" to everyone who's been hiding or traveling or just getting settled in the neighborhood over the summer.

Fall programs are starting up, including Bible study and Sunday school for all ages - Maralyn Devlin is leading discussion of "Surprising Things I Found in the Bible" on Thursday evenings from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m. and Sunday mornings (the abridged version) 9:00 - 9:40 a.m. Children's Sunday school (1st floor) is at 9:00 a.m. followed by children's choir (3rd floor) at 9:30. The Chancel Choir rehearses Wednesdays at 7:00 p.m. in the sanctuary. Worship is at 10:00 a.m. each Sunday, and we'd love to see you there!

Last of the summer movie sermon series coming up...

2008-08-08T00:00:00.004-06:00

We return to the gospels this Sunday with Matthew 14:22-33, a ghost story worth hearing. Everyone come and get wet... the water is fine.

On Sunday, August 17 Pastor Kerry and Pastor Betty will preach together on the movie Amazing Grace. Based on a true story, this historical drama starring Ioan Gruffudd (Fantastic Four) tells the story of William Wilberforce, an 18th-century English politician who fought for the abolition of slavery. Despite staunch opposition, Wilberforce waged an aggressive campaign using boycotts, petitions and slogans.

The Highlands UMC worship band will play Amazing Grace and other great old songs. See you there!

July updates

2008-07-22T11:52:00.002-06:00

Hard to believe we are just about halfway through the summer already. With many folks traveling, we don't often see everyone at the same time, but we are always glad to see you when you do come!

This Sunday, July 27, our summer movie sermon series continues with Pastor Betty preaching on Tender Mercies. We also have the joy of a baptism this week! Next week, August 3, Pastor Kerry will preach on Real Women Have Curves. The movies are all well worth seeing, but if you don't have time to see them in advance, please come anyway! The sermons are designed for those who haven't seen the movie as well as those who have.

In sad news, Rachel Gilbert, mother of Tammy Franklin and grandmother of Peter and Cole, passed away this week. The memorial service will be 9:00 a.m. this Friday, July 25, at Olinger Crown Hill Chapel at W.29th and Wadsworth. There will be a reception following the service at Highlands UMC in the fellowship hall. The congregation is invited to attend and show support as you are able during this important time in the Franklins' life.

It is a blessing to be part of the caring community of Highlands UMC. Stay safe this summer, and I hope to see you soon!

Come to our Beach Party!

2008-07-09T14:36:00.004-06:00

Beach Party: Surfing Through the Scriptures, our Vacation Bible School for kids age 3 - 11, begins tomorrow!

We still have plenty of room for kids (and volunteers, if you're so inclined) to join us for games, music, crafts, Bible stories, and more! Thursday, July 10 and Friday July 11 from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. and Saturday, July 12 from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Please call the church office at 303-477-5857 to learn more or to pre-register.

Highlands is Denver's Best Neighborhood!

2008-06-30T15:19:00.002-06:00

Highlands (West Highland and Highland area) has been voted readers' choice for "Best Neighborhood" in 5280 magazine's current "Top of the Town" issue:

It's official: after year's of crying "Wash Park!" our readers have shifted their love to this huge 'hood anchored by the up-and-coming 32nd & Zuni district, along with the established and hopping Highlands Square. The Highland area lays claim to some of the hottest new restaurants and boutiques in the city, and boasts great front-stoop culture, an engaged community, plenty of parks, and easy access to downtown and the foothills--not to mention a decent real estate scene in an otherwise shaky market.

Now, I'm not sure how they failed to notice our big, beautiful, growing church, but maybe we'll get that rectified by next year! :)

Summertime... and the livin' is easy

2008-06-28T13:34:00.002-06:00

This Sunday, we welcome guest preacher Dr. Don Hughes, who will talk to us about "The Parable of the Sea." Judy Hagerman offers her violin skills with Sonya Hamilton accompanying.

Next week, Sunday, July 6, Pastor Kerry will be preaching. As we do the first Sunday of each month, we will celebrate Holy Communion (Lord's Supper or Eucharist), where all are welcome at Christ's table.

Beach Party: Surfing the Scriptures, our Vacation Bible School for 2008, is July 10-12, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Thursday and Friday evening and 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on Saturday. We are still looking for a few more volunteers to help out; please contact the church office to let us know if you are available!

Pastor Betty and Pastor Kerry will be preaching another movie sermon series this summer, starting with Family Man on July 13. Other movies planned include Amazing Grace, Lars and the Real Girl, and Real Women Have Curves. Stay tuned for more details as they develop!

Summer's Comin'!

2008-06-03T15:53:00.003-06:00

... and we have lots in store for you!

This Saturday, June 7, the Youth Group will host the final fund-raiser for their mission trip to Baldwin, Louisiana later this month. There they will work at the warehouse and distribution center for the United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR), the global relief and development agency of the UMC. They have raised nearly enough to cover their trip, and are hoping you will come and enjoy a delicious Spaghetti Dinner this Saturday, for either a 5:00 p.m. or 6:30 p.m. seating. Tickets are $10 for adults, $7 for seniors, and children under 11 by donation. Please come out and show your support for the youth by eating spaghetti!

Saturday, June 14 is the Highlands Street Fair. Our church building will be open for our usual ministry of hospitality through the Baby Feeding and Changing Station, as well as hosting a youth art show put on by the students of Arts Street. We still need 2 more volunteers to be present and welcome people in the early afternoon; please contact the church office if you are available!

Rocky Mountain Annual Conference takes place June 18-21 at the Marriott Denver Tech Center. Please keep the clergy and lay delegates in your prayers as they pray, worship, discuss, and vote on matters of church life and leadership.

And stay tuned for our 2008 Vacation Bible School: Beach Party - Surfin' through the Scriptures! Kids from preschool to 5th grade will learn the basics of surfing, ride the wave of God’s love, and go home with a new “Beach Be-Attitude”: be obedient, be kind, be forgiving, be bold, and believe. VBS will take place Thursday, July 10 and Friday, July 11 from 6:00* p.m. to 8:00 p.m. and Saturday, July 12 from 9:00 am to 12:00 p.m. More information about registration coming soon. If you're interested in helping out, please contact us!

As always, summer means lots of our regular folks are traveling, even as newcomers visit for the first time. We pray for safe travels, enjoyment of family, friends, and new neighbors, and an openness to experiencing God wherever you are! Worship continues at our regular time, 10am each Sunday. All are welcome!

* Please note that the VBS times were previously listed incorrectly. 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Thursday and Friday is correct.

Women's Banquet, Mother's Day and Pentecost Sunday

2008-05-05T23:08:00.003-06:00

Thanks to all who helped out at the work day on Saturday - our church is a better place for the time and effort you give.

Saturday, May 10 is the Women's Spring Banquet, starting at 5:00 p.m. Women of all ages and stages of life are invited to come for an evening of dinner and musical entertainment. Tickets are $9/adult or $15/family, and can be reserved by calling the church office or purchased during coffee hour after worship.

Sunday, May 11 is a day of lively celebration, marking Pentecost - the birthday of the church - and Mother's Day. Worship will include several special opportunities for children to participate, including the children's choir and a sacred dance. We will experience prayer through movement and hear a message on the life of faith as a dance. Wear red to celebrate the Spirit, and we'll all have a church photo taken together!

Prayers for General Conference

2008-04-23T10:35:00.003-06:00

Over the next week and a half, nearly 1000 delegates plus hundreds of staff and volunteers from United Methodist Churches, boards, and agencies around the world will gather in Fort Worth, Texas for the quadrennial (every 4 years) gathering known as General Conference. This is the only body that can officially speak for The United Methodist Church, and delegates spend 10 days in "holy conferencing": prayer, discussion, reflection, debate, worship, and witness regarding legislation affecting the denomination's social teachings, organizational structure, finances, policies and procedures, and other matters of church law.

Rocky Mountain Conference, which includes Colorado, Utah, and 2/3 of Wyoming, sends 3 clergy and 3 lay delegates, plus alternates and volunteers. They are keeping a blog of their preparations and experiences if you'd like to read along. The main General Conference site will have live streaming audio and video available of some of the worship and plenary sessions, in addition to news articles and reports.

Please keep all the delegates, staff, Bishops, and volunteers in your prayers over the next two weeks. My own prayer is that our church will continue to move in the direction of welcoming all of God's children with love and acceptance, and move toward Jesus' vision of the kin'dom of God, where justice and mercy are available to all.

Spring is sprung...

2008-04-22T22:52:00.002-06:00

... and life is bustling at Highlands UMC!

This Sunday, April 27, the worship band will play a mix of new and familiar tunes. Come and join us for some spirited worship!

Next week, we offer Parents' Night Out on Friday, May 2 from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. for children up to age 7. Call the church office to reserve a spot, or to volunteer.

Saturday, May 3 we'll have an all-church workday to do some spring cleaning and plant the garden. There will be fun activities for kids as well, all starting at 9am. Sunday, May 4 we celebrate Holy Communion in worship, where all are welcome at Christ's table.

Saturday, May 10 is the Spring Women's Banquet at 5:00 p.m. Women of all ages and stages of life are invited to come for an evening of dinner and musical entertainment. Tickets are $9/adult or $15/family, and can be reserved by calling the church office or purchased during coffee hour after worship.

Sunday, May 11 is a day of lively celebration, marking Pentecost - the birthday of the church - and Mother's Day. Worship will include several special opportunities for children to participate, including the children's choir and a sacred dance. Wear red to celebrate the Spirit, and we'll all have a church photo taken together!

Hope to see you sometime soon!

Introduction to Highlands UMC

2008-04-11T14:25:00.003-06:00

This Sunday, after worship, anyone interested in learning more about Highlands UMC or The United Methodist Church is invited to attend "Highlands UMC 101," led by Pastor Betty and Pastor Kerry. Whether you are considering formally joining our congregation or just want some more information, you are welcome for a casual conversation with plenty of time for questions - no pressure, we promise!

Eastertide

2008-03-26T15:48:00.002-06:00

What a joy to see so many people at our Easter worship service! I hope all who came had a positive experience of Highlands UMC hospitality, as well as an experience of God's presence and Good News.

This Sunday, March 30, Pastor Betty will preach on the story of Thomas, the Twin, also known as Doubting Thomas, and the many traditions and stories that arose about his life after he experienced the Risen Christ.

Friday, March 4 will be our monthly Parents' Night Out for families with children up to age 7. We're changing the hours a little to 6:00 - 9:00 p.m., but it's still a great deal at $20 for one child and $15 per sibling for the evening. If you're interested in bringing your children, or if you are a church member interested in volunteering, please contact the church office at 303-477-5857 or the link at right.

Coming soon...

Introduction to Highlands UMC 101

If you would like to learn more about our church, we are holding an informational meeting on Sunday, April 13 following worship. We will begin at 11:30 a.m. If you would like more information, please contact the church office or Pastor Betty at pastorbettyjo@aol.com

Highlands UMC is an open and inclusive church. We have many ways to become part of the community through worship and outreach. If you are a seeker, a pilgrim, a person with a servant's heart or someone with questions of faith, come and worship with us.

Easter celebrations: Easter egg hunt and Easter Sunday worship

2008-03-17T14:03:00.004-06:00

Yes, that's right, this year Highlands UMC will host an Easter egg hunt, open to the whole community! Bring the kids from 10:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. this Saturday, March 22, to search for eggs in our big, historic building, to decorate their own bags for the eggs, and to take part in some fun games and activities.

Easter Sunday (March 23) we have our big worship celebration with organ, choir, traditional hymns, lilies, and the Hallelujah Chorus! You may want to arrive a little early for the 10:00 a.m. service as we tend to be pretty full on this high holy day.

Don't forget to come Thursday evening at 7:00 p.m. to remember and reflect on the forces of violence and injustice that led to Jesus' death and that remind us of how much we still need the Easter message of hope and new life today. See below for a little more about this service.

At Highlands UMC, all people are truly welcome, just as you are. We hope you'll come and experience God's love in our community sometime!

Palm Sunday and Holy Week

2008-03-13T16:59:00.002-06:00

I know, we just had Christmas, it's not even spring yet, and here we are with Palm Sunday (March 16). Gotta love those lunar-based holidays that change dates each year.

On Palm Sunday we recall the story of Jesus entering the city of Jerusalem mounted on a donkey, as the crowd laid down palm branches and coats on the road before him. Come early for a Pancake Breakfast (8:30 - 9:30 a.m.) to benefit the youth mission trip to Louisiana this summer. Worship (10:00 a.m.) will include the children's choir, which has been practicing hard for this special day; adult choir and special vocal duet; a drama; and as always, a thoughtful sermon connecting an ancient story to the joys and challenges of everyday life.

The story continues with our Maundy Thursday service, March 20 at 7:00 p.m. We begin with Communion, a remembrance of the last supper Jesus shared with his friends, and move into a time of meditation on how the violence and injustice of Jesus' time continues in our world today. All are welcome for this service of Communion, song, Scripture, and prayer. It is only by recalling and experiencing again the depths of this most Holy of weeks that we can truly appreciate the good news of Easter morning.

More on Easter next week...

Cancellations; Raising Lazarus

2008-03-07T16:37:00.003-07:00

Due to low interest, both Parents' Night Out (tonight) and the Snowshoeing Trip (tomorrow) have been cancelled. But fear not, there's plenty of opportunities for church involvement and fellowship coming up - Palm Sunday is only a week away!

This weekend, don't forget to set your clocks ahead one hour for Daylight Savings Time! I know, it's early in March, it means getting up early in the morning... blame the 2005 Congress. On the plus side, it will be light past 6pm in Denver!

Sunday's worship will include music by our seasonal Bell Choir, and a sermon on the story of Jesus raising his friend Lazarus from death. Pastor Betty will explore how death and resurrection fit into our spiritual journey through Lent toward Easter, and into our whole lives.

Sunday, March 16 is Palm Sunday: Come early (8:30 a.m.) for a pancake breakfast to benefit the youth mission trip! Stay for the children's choir and procession with palms!

We'll have more details up soon, but mark your calendars for Maundy Thursday service, March 20, at 7pm; an Easter egg hunt for children on Saturday, March 22; and definitely come for Easter Sunday, March 23! In addition to all the usual ways we celebrate the Resurrection (choir, organ, lilies, Communion), it is the tradition at Highlands to sing the Hallelujah Chorus from Handel's Messiah and invite anyone who wishes to join the choir.

All are welcome, from any age, ethnic/cultural heritage, religious background, sexual orientation, gender identity, (dis)ability level, marital status, political affiliation, hair color, or favorite animal! Worship is at 10am each Sunday.

Leap Year

2008-02-26T16:48:00.004-07:00

Yes, we have a February 29 this year. Although, when I think about it, it seems like we "leap" over that day for 3 out of 4 years, and this year we're lingering rather than leaping... English is such a funny language.

By the way, if you're looking for a new resource for prayer and reflection during Lent, you might want to try out this "Lenten toolbox" for "adjusting your focus and supporting your soul."

Game Night, the Metro District Annual Celebration, and the Highlands Youth Chili Cook-off were all wonderful this weekend. I managed not to take home any chili, which is only a blessing because I ate so much on Sunday! We have some good cooks in our congregation!

This week is a little slower, but we still have a work day this Saturday if you are feeling motivated to help the Trustees clean and paint the Associate Pastor's office on the 3rd floor (and a few other fun tasks for the taking with the bribe of donuts and coffee!). Sunday in worship we will have Holy Communion and explore the story of Jesus healing a man born blind.

Next week, prepare for Parents' Night Out on Friday, March 7 (please contact the church office if you would like to volunteer!), and a Snowshoeing Trip on Saturday, March 8 - a good opportunity to get out and enjoy Colorado's winter wonderland one last time before spring melts it all! Snowshoes can be rented from local sporting goods stores for $10-18/day, and we'll meet in the church parking lot at 8am to carpool/caravan.

Visitors, guests, neighbors, strangers, and new friends are always welcome!

Busy weekend, preparing for Holy Week

2008-02-21T10:43:00.002-07:00

This weekend brings several opportunities for fun, fellowship, learning, and celebration.

First, this Friday night, February 22, please come for Game Night starting at 6:30 p.m.! We've discovered this is far too enjoyable an event to only hold once a year. Bring your board games, card games, and other miscellaneous games to enjoy an evening of intergenerational fellowship.

Saturday, February 23 is the Metropolitan District Annual Celebration, which will be held at Burns Memorial UMC in Aurora this year. Meet at Highlands at 8am if you want to carpool over to enjoy multicultural worship, information on the wider mission and ministries of the United Methodist Church, a "stone soup" lunch (you're invited to bring a can of vegetables to contribute!), and recognition of one of our own! Maralyn Devlin will receive the "Quiet Disciple" award, honoring her years of faithful service in our community and the wider church.

Sunday, February 24 the Highlands UMC Worship Band will keep things hoppin' during our 10am service exploring the story of the Samaritan woman's encounter with Jesus. And be sure to plan on staying for our (2nd? 3rd?) more-or-less Annual Chili Cookoff, where you can taste up to 10 different kinds of chili and help support the youth on the mission trip they're taking to Louisiana later this year.

Coming soon...

Sunday, March 2 we celebrate Holy Communion (the first Sunday of each month is our tradition). The Chancel Choir will sing a rousing gospel-style rendition of "This Is My Story" that you won't want to miss!

Saturday, March 8: Snowshoeing trip! Meet at the church at 8am to carpool and caravan, probably to Rocky Mountain National Park, unless there's enough snow somewhere closer. Snowshoes can be rented from stores such as REI and Christy's Sports for $10-18/day, usually with a grace period for pickup before and return after the day of snowshoeing itself. Please contact Pastor Kerry or leave a message with the church office if you plan to come.

And don't forget, Holy Week is coming:
Palm Sunday, March 16: Pancake Breakfast prepared and served by the youth; 10am worship will include children's choir singing
Maundy Thursday, March 20: 7pm service reflecting on Jesus' final days and the powers of violence and darkness still at work in our world
Saturday, March 22: Easter Egg Hunt open to the community
Easter Sunday, March 23: Celebrating the Resurrection with all the trimmings: choir, organ, lilies, Communion, and the Hallelujah Chorus!

Highlands is an inclusive congregation where all are truly welcome. I hope you'll join us!

Welcome to Lent

2008-02-06T11:42:00.000-07:00

Sorry I missed posting the last couple weeks. For those who missed the Ash Wednesday service this morning, I hope you will find ways to still your heart and mind for a moment to reflect on the beginning of this season of reflection, repentance, and renewal in our church year.

This Sunday, February 10, Pastor Kerry will preach on the story of Jesus in the desert (Matt 4:1-11) as we begin our journey through the wilderness and toward the cross together.

Our next game night will be Friday, February 22 - stay tuned here or call the church office for more information. We have a grand old time with friends of all ages!

Prayer, Martin Luther King, Jr., and Holy Hilarity Women's Retreat

2008-01-17T11:42:00.000-07:00

This Sunday, January 20, we will turn our attention to the topic of Prayer. All are welcome to come and worship in an inclusive and intergenerational setting, exploring how we connect with God and how God desires to be in relationship with us. Worship is at 10 a.m.

This Monday, January 21st, is the anniversary of Martin Luther King, Jr.'s birthday, a time to remember the struggles of the past, how far we have come, and how far we still have to go to realize the dream of the Beloved Community. Retired Bishop Woodie W. White has posted his annual birthday letter to Rev. Dr. King about the nation's progress toward racial equality at the UM Reporter website.

All are invited to participate in the annual MLK Day "Marade" from City Park down Colfax to Capitol Hill. United Methodists from the Metro District will be gathering at Park Hill UMC at 9:30 a.m. to be at City Park at 10:00 a.m. There will be some preliminary speeches, and we actually walk around 10:30 a.m. Everyone will be picked up downtown, to avoid the time with the return walk.

Lunch will be served at Park Hill, followed by a short program featuring Dr. Jacqueline Benton, who grew up in segregated Little Rock and is cousin to one of the Little Rock Nine. The observance will be finished by early afternoon.

Reminder...
It's not too late to sign up for the Annual Highlands UMC Women's Retreat! We'll be going to Templed Hills next weekend, January 25 - 27. See below for more information, or contact the church office (303-477-5857). We always have a good time, but our topic this year (Holy Hilarity) should lead us to even more fun and laughter than usual!

First Sunday after Epiphany; Baptism of Jesus

2008-01-11T13:51:00.000-07:00

This Sunday is the first Sunday after Epiphany, when we traditionally tell the story of the baptism of Jesus in the river Jordan (Matthew 3:13-17). It's a time to remember our own baptism, the "outward and visible sign of an inward grace," and the children who have been baptized into our community and whom we have pledged to surround with love and support in their spiritual growth.

Other lectionary readings for this week include a "Servant Song" from Isaiah (42:1-9), a passage commonly applied to Jesus as Christ but that seems to have originally referred to the whole people of Israel; Psalm 29, a hymn of praise to the Creator; and Acts 10:34-43, Peter's response to a vision in which God made clear to him that there is no distinction for God between Jews and Gentiles - a radical change from the Jewish disciples' earlier understandings of the message they were to spread.

Coming soon: Highlands UMC Annual Women's Retreat, to take place at Templed Hills Camp and Retreat Center in Woodland Park, Colorado. Friday, January 25 - Sunday, January 27. This year we will explore the theme of "Holy Hilarity" and being Fools for Christ. If you've always thought laughter should be considered a spiritual practice but never been able to prove it, this is a great time to share in fellowship, reflection, rest, and lots of good humor! Please contact the church office for more information or to sign up.

12 Days of Christmas: Epiphany

2007-12-31T13:10:00.000-07:00

Looks like I forgot to post information about our later Advent and Christmas Eve services. Sorry about that. We thoroughly enjoyed the children's Christmas Pageant and bell choir on Dec. 22, and had a full house for our lovely Christmas Eve service, featuring harpists, violin, choir, carols, Communion, and candlelight. If you weren't able to attend, I hope you'll visit us some Sunday morning (10am) in the near future.

This Sunday, January 6, is (the first day of) Epiphany, when we recall the story of the Magi (wise ones) who followed a star from the east to bring gifts to the young Jesus. Traditionally, the 12 days of Christmas began with December 25 and ended with January 6. The story of the Magi is told only in the 1st Gospel (Matthew 2:1-12), and implies that Mary and Joseph were staying in a house in Bethlehem when their foreign visitors arrived. In this story, there is a strong undercurrent of danger and political unease, as King Herod reacts to the news of a new king being born with paranoia and violence. The gifts that the Magi bring represent attributes that the Gospel writer wished to affirm about Jesus: gold for a king, frankincense for a priest, and myrrh for a body to be buried. But the text does not specify that there were 3 people, nor that they were kings. (For a more extensive critical reading of this text, check out this Lectionary Homiletics article.)

The Highlands UMC Worship Band will add to our music this week, as we enter the season of Epiphany. The term "epiphany" means "to make known," or "to reveal," and the focus of the season is on the ways in which God's revelation in Jesus was made known to the world, especially through the early signs and wonders of Jesus' life and ministry: his baptism by John in the Jordan, turning water into wine at a wedding in Cana, and his transfiguration on the mountain with Peter, James, and John.

I hope you will join us to experience and know for yourself the love and light of Christ made known in our world 2000 years ago and continually today!

Advent waiting, preparation, celebration

2007-12-07T16:07:00.000-07:00

Last-minute reminder:
Tonight, Friday, December 7, is our monthly Parents' Night Out. Childcare is provided from 6:00 p.m. until 10:00 p.m. for any members of the community who wish to participate. Parents may register with the church office or just show up at 6pm; first child is $20 and each sibling is $15.

Advent is underway, and this Sunday our worship will focus on "A Vision of Peace," drawing from Isaiah 11:1-10. We prepare to welcome Christ into our lives again in the form of a helpless baby, born to unmarried parents with no resources, in a strange city, in a forgotten corner of occupied territory. God does enter the world in strange ways sometimes! Worship is at 10:00 a.m. each Sunday.

Next Friday, December 14 we'll have a Game Night for all ages! Starting at 6:30 p.m., bring a plate of Christmas treats to share. We will have games galore for adults and kids. Christmas music playing. Elves running around. Childcare will be provided. Parents bring sleeping bags for the kids for watching a Christmas movie. (This is a great opportunity to bring a friend to church!)

Saturday, December 15 we'll offer a special morning of Parents' Day Out for those who need to get some Christmas shopping done without the little ones underfoot! Same rates as on our first Friday evenings ($20/first child, $15/sibling) for children to come, play, and enjoy some Christmas craft activities from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. A snack/light lunch will be served. Please call or email the church if you wish to sign up.

At the same time that morning, we'll have a Church Clean-Up to prepare for Christmas guests. A variety of projects are available for willing and able bodies of all ages!

Sunday, December 16 our worship will explore the "Song of Love" that is part of this season. We'll hear and sing different versions of the Magnificat, the poetic response of Mary to the news that she would bear a holy child, as well as the meaning of Christ's coming as a love song that God sings to us.

At Highlands UMC, all people are welcome. I hope you'll join us for worship at this wonderful time of year!

Another year is done...

2007-11-20T13:43:00.000-07:00

... another liturgical year, that is. This Sunday, November 25, is the final Sunday in our worship calendar before the year starts over again with Advent on December 2. We will reflect on the turning of the seasons, the seasons of the life of Jesus, and the life of the church. Pastor Betty is preaching.

There will be no choir rehearsal tomorrow, November 21. Anyone who wishes to sing with the choir this Sunday may join us at 9:30 a.m. in the parlor to go over a song from The Faith We Sing, our hymnal supplement.

Enjoy time with family and friends this week, and may you have much to be thankful for!

Sneak preview of things to come:

Advent begins Sunday, December 2, with the theme The Word of Hope. As we prepare to welcome Christ into the world and our lives once more, we will experience Scripture and the message of this season of waiting through a variety of senses and arts. December 9 will focus on A Vision of Peace.

Friday, December 7 will be our monthly Parents' Night Out, every first Friday. Childcare is provided from 6:00 p.m. until 10:00 p.m. for any members of the community who wish to participate. Parents may register with the church office; first child is $20 and each sibling is $15.

Friday, December 14 we'll have a Game Night for all ages! Starting at 6:30 p.m., bring a plate of Christmas treats to share. We will have games galore for adults and kids. Christmas music playing. Elves running around. Childcare will be provided. Parents bring sleeping bags for the kids for watching a Christmas movie. (This is a great opportunity to bring a friend to church!)

Hope to see you at Highlands UMC!

Time to Give Thanks

2007-11-15T16:23:00.001-07:00

'Tis the season to reflect with gratitude on all that blesses our lives, and this Sunday we will celebrate the spirit of Thanksgiving with a service of song, sharing, and Communion. We will focus particularly on the blessings of the earth and the natural world, and all will be invited to share what they are thankful for this year. Worship is at 10am.

(Don't be intimidated by the roofing work taking place - it's part of our Sacred Surroundings efforts to renew the exterior of the building even as our congregation is experiencing new life in God's love. On Sunday you should be able to enter through either the 32nd Ave or Osceola St entrances without obstruction. We are open during reconstruction!)

A special thanks to Denise Moore, Chair of Finance, for all her hard work in coordinating the Stewardship Campaign: we will (Sunday or soon) have good news to share with you about the faithfulness of our congregation and the future of our church! If you have not yet made a pledge and would like to commit to sharing your time, talents, or resources with Highlands for next year, please contact the church office for a pledge card.

Building a Life of Service

2007-10-19T15:13:00.001-06:00

Have you ever wondered why we call our gathering each Sunday a worship "service"? Do you think of it as a time to give services or receive services? Appropriately, the Greek word leitourgia, from which we get our English word "liturgy" (generally referring to the order or form of worship) means "the work of the people," so there must be some connection between work, worship, and ministry in the world.

This Sunday, October 21, we will celebrate Laity Sunday on the theme of "Building a Life of Service," part of our "Building a Life Together" stewardship (and discipleship) campaign this month. While we won't attempt to answer every question, I hope you will join us for an exploration of what it means to worship God and follow Christ by serving each other and those around us. Pastor Betty will be back with us, but the laypeople are in charge this week!

In case anyone's checking in here who may have missed the email announcement, please keep Ginger Thomas and her family in your prayers on the death of her grandmother, Harrietta Griffith. Harrietta was a member of Highlands UMC as a young adult and returned in recent years with Ginger. Services will be at Olinger Crown Hill (29th and Wadsworth) tomorrow at 10:00 a.m., with a reception at the church afterwards.

Happy Coming Out Day!

2007-10-11T16:32:00.000-06:00

Today is National Coming Out Day, an opportunity for people to be honest about their lives and for straight allies to show support for gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgendered and questioning friends, families, neighbors, coworkers and colleagues. Highlands UMC is a community of faith that celebrates people of any sexual orientation and gender identity, a place where we proclaim the Good News that God's love knows no bounds.

This Saturday - final reminder - is the Northwest Denver CROPWalk, starting at 9am from Highlands Lutheran Church at 40th and Irving. Even if you don't have time to collect sponsors, you could show up and join us for the walk - we walk because millions of people in the two-thirds world have to walk several miles each day, for employment, food, and water.

This Sunday, October 14, Pastor Kerry will preach on "Building a Life of Faith," the first Sunday in our stewardship campaign focusing on "Building a Life Together." I know, you don't want to hear about money in church, but trust me, stewardship is about much more than just meeting the church budget needs for the year: it's about a way of living out your faith with trust, gratitude, and generosity. Worship is at 10am, with Christian Education for all ages at 9am. We hope you'll stay and get to know us a little during our Fellowship Hour (more like half an hour, depending on who stays and what the food is!) right after worship!

Next Tuesday evening, October 16, Missy and Paul Snyder will host the first Home Meeting for folks to reflect on what stewardship means in a more personal setting. Contact the church office to learn more.

Blessings on your week!

This Week: Guest Preacher Rev. Maggie Roe, World Communion Sunday

2007-10-05T16:43:00.000-06:00

This Sunday, October 7, we are privileged to have Rev. Maggie Roe, a Chaplain for The Denver Hospice, share a message with us. We are also celebrating World Communion Sunday, an international ecumenical observance that reminds us of the unity of the Body of Christ around the world, even in our diversity. Judy Hagerman is providing music during Communion. I hope you will join us for this special service!

This is also a very quick last-minute reminder that "Parents' Night Out" is this evening (6:00 - 10:00 p.m.), offering childcare to the community. If you would like to help out, or if you would like to register your children, please contact Kristi Conroy. This is a new ministry we are offering the first Friday evening of every month, and it is only possible if many people serve as volunteers.

And don't forget that next Saturday, October 13, is the Northwest Denver CROPWalk. If you would like to help fight hunger by walking, or by sponsoring someone else to walk, please contact a member of the Missions Committee.

Stay tuned for information about our upcoming Stewardship Campaign, "Building a Life Together"!

Missions & More

2007-09-29T19:35:00.000-06:00

Tomorrow, Sunday, September 30, we will have a Spaghetti Dinner to learn more about and support the CROPWalk of northwest Denver, which takes place in two weeks, Saturday, October 13. CROPWalk is a fundraiser and educational opportunity for Church World Service, an international, ecumenical relief and development organization. Walkers visit local food pantries, soup kitchens, and other hunger-relieving ministries in the neighborhood, and funds raised are divided between international hunger-fighting efforts and those same local hunger ministries.

While this post is very late notice for tomorrow's dinner, I hope it will be in time to be helpful in getting the word out about the CROPWalk - walkers and sponsors are still needed.

The Process Theology discussion group met this past Thursday for the first time, and will meet again the fourth Thursday in October, 10/25, from 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

Thanks to all who came for Leadership Training this morning - we had many good conversations and exciting ideas brainstormed for the future of ministry at Highlands UMC. Stay tuned (and join us Sunday mornings at 10am) to learn more about the fruits of our work together!

Fall at Highlands UMC

2007-09-24T10:08:00.000-06:00

Okay, clearly I am a serious delinquent in this task, and should be taken out back and shot. Or at least smacked up side the head once or twice. Sorry.

Fall and the program year are well underway at Highlands! Our theme for the year is "The Church Under Reconstruction," as our building will soon be surrounded by scaffolding for the renovations and restoration supported by our State Historical Fund grant, awarded earlier this year. But we are also reflecting on the ways in which our congregation, and the wider church, is in a time of reconstruction, re-imagining, and resurrection as we acknowledge that the world has changed and is changing, that old certainties are no longer adequate, that we have more questions than answers, and that we are called to move forward in faith to live in this world that God loves in new and creatively faithful ways. I hope you will consider joining us some Sunday morning at 9:00 a.m. for Christian education for all ages, and 10:00 a.m. for worship.

Thanks to all who helped with the Rummage Sale this weekend - your time and effort were incredibly valuable, and we raised just over $1400!

This Thursday, Sept. 27, an adult discussion group will begin focusing on Process Theology. Process Theology is a way of understanding God to be at work in the world through natural and human processes, a belief system that takes science seriously and respects free will. The class will meet the 2nd and 4th Thursday evening of each month, probably through January. Call the church office, 303-477-5857, for more details.

This Saturday, Sept. 29, we will have Leadership Training for all chairs and members of committees, as well as anyone else who might be interested in how the different areas of church life relate and the work that gets done behind the scenes. We'll be in the Parlor (2nd floor) from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Hope to see you there!

Coming soon...

Sunday, September 30: Pastor Betty (Rev. Dr. Betty J. Bradford) preaching.

Friday, October 5: Parents' Night Out, childcare provided for any family in the community from 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. $20 for one child, $15 per sibling. Contact Kristi Conroy or the church to sign up.

Sunday, October 7: World Communion Sunday, celebrating the unity of the church around the world. Guest preacher Rev. Maggie Roe, Chaplain for Denver Hospice.

Sunday, October 14: Pastor Kerry (Rev. Kerry Greenhill) preaching; beginning of Stewardship Campaign: "Building a Life Together." Focusing on Faith as a necessary ingredient to our life as a community.

Sunday, October 21: Laity Sunday, "Building a Life of Service." Celebrating how all of us as the Body of Christ are needed to carry out God's work in the world.

Prayer Concerns and Announcements for this week

2007-06-11T11:20:00.000-06:00

For those who may have missed the announcement in worship yesterday, please keep Pastor Betty and her family in your prayers. She has traveled to San Diego this week to be with her daughter Heather in a time of crisis. Prayers for healing, strength, peace, and guidance would be appreciated.

On a happier note, we were greatly blessed by the stories shared by Rose Red Elk / Red Feather Woman in yesterday's celebration of Native American ministries and culture, and by Highlands UMC member Susie Aikman reminding us of her ministry with alterNative Voices radio (Sunday mornings on KUVO) - visit http://www.alternativevoices.org/ to learn more.

This Sunday we will welcome retired pastor Rev. John Lee to preach at Highlands. With Sheena still on vacation and Rocky Mountain Annual Conference taking place this week, we could use some help in producing the bulletin - please let me know if you might have a couple hours to volunteer. (Or if you are already planning to help out, let me know that, too!)

Annual Conference begins Wednesday evening, and is taking place at the Marriott-Denver Tech Center. Worship services are open to the public, and will take place:
Wednesday at 7:30 p.m. Communion Service; offering will go to GraceWorks Community, the Bishop's Young Adult Initiative
Friday at 7:30 p.m. Memorial Service; offering will go to Global AIDS Fund
Saturday at 7:30 p.m. Ordination/Commissioning Service; offering will go to the Central Conference Pension Initiative

Mariah Hayden, our former Student Pastor, will be commissioned Saturday evening as a probationary elder. If you are interested in attending worship, or to learn more about the issues facing Annual Conference this year, visit http://www.rmcumc.org/COI/ac/ac2007/index.htm or just send me a note. Please keep our Annual Conference in your prayers as the delegates (including our own Kathy Moore) make decisions about the structure, administration, and ministries of the United Methodist Church in our own region and around the world.
Blessings on your lives and ministries!

Communion, Wisdom, Membership, Pentecost

2007-05-03T10:45:00.000-06:00

May promises to be a month of celebration for Highlands UMC. I hope you will join us as we finish the Easter season and move to Pentecost, the birthday of the Christian church.

This Saturday, May 5, all members of the congregation are invited to come for our (more or less) semi-annual workday. Indoor and outdoor tasks are available; all ages are welcome to come and help starting at 9 a.m.

Sunday, May 6, we celebrate Holy Communion. All are welcome at Christ's table. We will enjoy special music from violinist Judy Hagerman and Jackie Shaffer on organ.

Sunday, May 13, Mother's Day: Honoring the Wisdom of God, Holy Sophia, considered by many to be the feminine nature of God.

Sunday, May 20, we welcome new members to our congregation, and all of us renew our commitment to support the church with our prayers, our presence, our gifts, and our service.

Tuesday, May 22, we will have an informational evening about the genocide in the Darfur region of Sudan, and what we can do to help stop the violence. We will hear from Rev. Heidi McGinness, an ordained Presbyterian minister who has spent time in Darfur with Christian Solidarity International. All are welcome to come and learn about this wartorn part of God's world and our human family.

Sunday, May 27 is Pentecost, when we hear the story of the outpouring of the Holy Spirit in the gathering of disciples fifty days after Christ's death and resurrection. We celebrate the movement of the Spirit in our own midst, and remember the call to live as disciples who see visions and dream dreams of the Reign of God.

I hope you will join us at Highlands UMC this month. Worship is at 10:00 a.m. each Sunday. Please visit the church office, call, or email for more information (see "About Highlands" at right). May God continue to bless you richly in this season of new life!

Christ is risen! Alleluia! Make a joyful noise!

2007-04-11T10:30:00.000-06:00

This Sunday, April 15: "Joyful Noise Sunday" - come and respond to the good news of Resurrection by making a joyful noise! Pastor Kerry will preach on "Getting in Touch with Reality." The Highlands Worship Band will provide some of our music. All are welcome.

Next week:

Sunday, April 22, Earth Day: Highlands UMC will observe Evolution Sunday, celebrating the earth God has given us, the science that informs us, and the faith that inspires us. Pastor Betty will preach. Sacred dance to James Weldon Johnson's poem, "The Creation," and jazz musician Lee Ann Gott bring special elements to our worship.

Holy Week at Highlands UMC

2007-04-05T13:17:00.000-06:00

I don't know if anyone out there in cyberspace is still checking in at this site, since I've been so delinquent in updating it for the past six months. I apologize; life has been very busy!

This week is Holy Week, when we remember the last week of Jesus' life, from his triumphal entry into Jerusalem on a donkey - forming a powerfully humble contrast to the imperial procession of Caesar entering on his fine horse at the other end of the city - to his death on the cross, and then Easter Sunday's joyful news of Resurrection.

This year Highlands is holding a Good Friday service, April 6 at 6:30 p.m. We will reflect on the Seven Last Words (sayings) of Christ through word and song. All are welcome to this contemplative service remembering Jesus' final hours on the cross.

Easter Sunday (April 8), we are offering a Pancake Breakfast from 8:00 a.m. to 9:30 a.m., followed by our Service of Resurrection and Communion at 10:00 a.m. All are welcome, not only in the church but also at the table. We will be blessed by violin, organ, and extra choir members in our musical praise, and we close worship by singing the Hallelujah Chorus from Handel's Messiah. Please join us for this joyful celebration!

Coming soon:

Tuesday, April 10: Administrative Council meeting, 7:00 p.m. Very important meeting with updates from our committee chairs and the beginning discussion of leadership training.

Sunday, April 15: Pastor Kerry will preach on "Getting in Touch with Reality." The Highlands Worship Band will provide some of our music. All are welcome.

Sunday, April 22, Earth Day: Highlands UMC will observe Evolution Sunday, celebrating the earth God has given us, the science that informs us, and the faith that inspires us. Pastor Betty will preach. Sacred dance to James Weldon Johnson's poem, "The Creation," and jazz musician Lee Ann Gott bring special elements to our worship.

At Highlands UMC, all people are truly welcome, regardless of age, race, national origin, gender identity, sexual orientation, immigration or employment status, educational background, income level, ability/disability, marital/family situation, political party, favorite color, or preferred style of dress. We hope you will join us soon!

Life-Long Learners and Missions Dinner

2006-09-21T14:08:00.000-06:00

This Sunday, September 24, we will hear the story of Jesus and the Syrophoenician woman from Mark 7:24-37. Pastor Betty is preaching on "Lifelong Learners." Be sure to stay after church for a dinner hosted by the Missions Committee. Donations will go to support ongoing needs for Hurricane Katrina recovery efforts in the Gulf Coast.

Next Sunday, October 1, is World Communion Sunday. Our text will be

"Life-long Learners"

2006-09-20T13:22:00.000-06:00

This Sunday, September 24, our theme will be "Life-long Learners" as we hear the story of the Syro-Phoenician woman from

Kicking off the program year

2006-09-01T13:43:00.000-06:00

Wow, I didn't realize it had been almost two months since my last post here. I apologize, and hope there may still be someone out there checking in once in a while!

As summer draws to a close, we are preparing to resume our "program year" at Highlands UMC. Sunday, September 10 is our "kick-off" or "Rally" Sunday, when the choir will sing in worship again, Sunday school for all ages will resume, and we begin exploring the areas of growth in faith and mission we want to achieve for this year. Our theme will be "Sacred Work," and we will hear from representatives of the many different areas of ministry that take place in and through our church.

Before that, though, all are invited for worship this Sunday, September 3 at 10:00 a.m. We will celebrate Holy Communion, and sing some favorite hymns suggested by members of the congregation. Many folks travel for Labor Day, but God is always present to bless our work and our recreation, our worship and our rest.

Choir rehearsals have started up again, and we always welcome new members: Wednesday evenings, 7:00 - 8:30 p.m., in the sanctuary.

We also are open to new members for the Highlands UMC Worship Band, which plays once or twice a month and rehearses as needed to prepare for that. We are particularly in need of a bass player, but we welcome other instruments and vocalists too!

Hope you can join us this Sunday or in future, corner of Osceola St and 32nd Avenue in northwest Denver. All are welcome!

Celebrating Our Children

2006-07-07T11:08:00.000-06:00

Vacation Bible School has begun! "Adventure of the Treasure Seekers" continues tonight, 6:00 - 8:00 p.m., and tomorrow, 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Children from preschool through 5th grade are welcome; we are asking a donation of $10 for one child or $15 per family to help cover the cost of materials.

This Sunday, the children will take part in worship to share what they learned during VBS, and we will celebrate the gifts of children in the life of our community of faith. Worship begins at 10:00 a.m., and all are welcome to stay for fellowship hour after the service.

July 2 - Holiday Weekend

2006-06-28T11:57:00.000-06:00

This Sunday, July 2, we will be blessed with a sermon from Maralyn Devlin, Certified Lay Speaker, from the book of Daniel.

Families, don't forget to sign up for Vacation Bible School next week (July 6, 7, 8 - see below)! We are still in need of some more adult or youth helpers, too. Please contact Pastor Char or join our informational meeting after worship this Sunday.

Any choir members looking for a chance to sing during our off-season? Consider taking part in the Congress Park Choral Union, a new summer-only choir with the motto, "Singing should be fun!" Rehearsals are Sunday and Thursday evenings from July 9 until August 3, with a concert Sunday, August 6 at Christ Church United Methodist, at 690 Colorado Blvd.

June update - yikes!

2006-06-20T16:40:00.000-06:00

Where on earth did the last three weeks go?

Thanks to all who helped out with the Highlands Street Fair last week - we gave out lots of information on our Vacation Bible School for this summer, and lots of kids came by and "fished" for prizes. This is a great way for us to reach out in the community and build a positive reputation with the young families in the area.

Speaking of Vacation Bible School, this year's theme is "Adventure of the Treasure Seekers," and we will be exploring God's promises with children (pre-K to 5th grade) July 6, 7, and 8 (Thursday and Friday evening, 6-8pm, Saturday 9am - 1pm). All participants are invited to worship Sunday morning, July 9, for the children to share a song and message about what they learned. All are welcome; cost is $10 per child or $15 per family. Contact the church office at 303-477-5857 to learn more.

If you are interested in helping out with VBS, we would love to have your support, whether as prayers, presence, gifts, or service! Contact the church office or Pastor Char about your area of interest.

This Sunday, June 25, will include celebration of the Kerry Greenhill's commissioning towards Deacon's orders, a significant step on the path to ordination. The worship band will bring special music, and all are invited to stay for coffee and fellowship after the service. Worship begins at 10:00 a.m.

Between now and then, lay and clergy representatives from United Methodist Churches across the region will gather for the 2006 Rocky Mountain Annual Conference, to share in "holy conferencing" and vote on decisions affecting us all as a connectional community. Please keep the delegates and leadership in your prayers as we seek to come together in love and unity, with respect for diverse opinions and a desire to live out the Good News more faithfully in all our different settings.

Wrapping up the parables

2006-05-25T23:09:00.000-06:00

Memorial Day may mark the unofficial start of summer, but in the church we are nearing the end of Eastertide and approaching Pentecost.

This Sunday, May 28, will be the final week in our sermon series on the parables. Kerry Greenhill will preach on the Parable of the Sower and the Seeds, Matthew 13:1-9. All are welcome to join us for worship at 10:00, followed by fellowship hour. Hope to see you!

P.S. The good news that God does not take a vacation, but is with us wherever we are, does not always help us to remember that the work and needs of the Church also go on, even when we are not present! Please remember that if you will be out of town, the church still has bills to pay, and your offering may be sent in by mail!

Barbeque to benefit the Mayor's Homeless Initiative

2006-05-15T13:27:00.000-06:00

This Sunday, May 21, Pastor Betty will continue her sermon series on the parables of Jesus, and the Highlands UMC Worship Band will lead our music. Worship begins at 10:00 a.m.

After church (beginning around 11:15 a.m.), the Missions Committee is sponsoring a BBQ in the church parking lot (corner of 32nd Ave and Osceola), to which all are invited. Donations will go to support our participation the Mayor's Homeless Initiative for Denver, in which Highlands UMC has signed up to sponsor a homeless person or family, providing a month's rent and mentoring support over the course of a year. Come one, come all to enjoy some great food and fellowship and support a worthy cause!

Parables, Communion, and the 50th Anniversary of Women's Full Clergy Rights

2006-05-04T14:56:00.000-06:00

This Sunday, May 7, we will celebrate Holy Communion during our usual 10:00 worship service. All are welcome at Christ's Table. Pastor Betty will continue her sermon series on the Parables of Jesus.

Next week, May 14, we will celebrate the 50th anniversary of full clergy rights for women in The United Methodist Church and its predecessor denominations. Today, May 4, is the exact anniversary.

On this day in 1956, the General Conference of The Methodist Church voted to affirm full clergy rights for women, ending a long history of baby steps and individual cases of recognizing women called to ministry with decisive action. The United Methodist Church has declared 2006 a year to recognize this 50th anniversary, and so here are a couple resources for those interested in exploring the issue further:

This month's issue of the Circuit Rider is full of articles on women in ministry.

The General Board of Higher Education and Ministry sponsors a website by, for, and about UM Clergywomen.

And with no disrespect intended toward the many fine men who have served the church, I offer The Top 10 Reasons Why Men Should Not Be Ordained:

10. A man's place is in the army.

9. For men who have children, their duties might distract them from the responsibilities of being a parent.

8. Their physical build indicates that men are more suited to tasks such as chopping down trees and wrestling mountain lions. It would be "unnatural" for them to do other forms of work.

7. Man was created before woman. It is therefore obvious that man was a prototype. Thus, they represent an experiment, rather than the crowning achievement of creation.

6. Men are too emotional to be priests or pastors. This is easily demonstrated by their conduct at football games and watching basketball tournaments.

5. Some men are handsome; they will distract women worshipers.

4. To be ordained pastor is to nurture the congregation. But this is not a traditional male role. Rather, throughout history, women have been considered to be not only more skilled than men at nurturing, but also more frequently attracted to it. This makes them the obvious choice for ordination.

3. Men are overly prone to violence. No really manly man wants to settle disputes by any means other than by fighting about it. Thus, they would be poor role models, as well as being dangerously unstable in positions of leadership.

2. Men can still be involved in church activities, even without being ordained. They can sweep paths, repair the church roof, and maybe even lead the singing on Father's Day. By confining themselves to such traditional male roles, they can still be vitally important in the life of the Church.

1. In the New Testament account, the person who betrayed Jesus was a man. Thus, his lack of faith and ensuing punishment stands as a symbol of the subordinated position that all men should take.

Parables

2006-04-29T11:40:00.000-06:00

Tomorrow we will look at the parables of Jesus. Why did he use parables? What was he hoping to convey? Why be mysterious?

Check out these verses from Matthew 13 in The Message (a contemporary paraphrase of the Bible).

In the next few weeks, the sermon will focus on specific parables.

Hope to see you there!

Second Sunday of Easter

2006-04-20T15:36:00.000-06:00

Did you know that, like Christmas, Easter is not just a single day, but a liturgical season? Christian traditions and communities that follow a liturgical calendar observe Eastertide for seven weeks, from Easter Sunday until Pentecost. It is a season of joyful celebration, of remembering the Resurrection and the disciples' experiences of the living Christ among them, with white or gold as the traditional liturgical color.

This Sunday we have a guest preacher, Rev. Carla Ficke, who will bring us a message on "Leap of Faith." If you would like to read the scriptures in preparation for worship, check out John 20:19-31 and Psalm 133. Our seasonal chime choir will play special music. Pastor Betty returns next week.

Holy Week

2006-04-11T15:34:00.000-06:00

With the celebration of Palm/Passion Sunday this week, we have entered into Holy Week, the final days before Jesus' death - and resurrection. All are welcome to come to a service of Communion and Stations of the Cross on Maundy Thursday at 7:00 p.m., as well as our Easter celebration this Sunday at 10:00 a.m. (Pancake Breakfast begins at 8:00 a.m.; see below for details).

In addition, Holy Week is a good time to reflect thoughtfully on scripture and the steps of Jesus. If you are looking for daily readings or prayers, I invite you to visit the following:

Sacred Space: the prayer site run by the Irish Jesuits.

CRI/Voice.Institute: Biblical and theological resources for growing Christians, based in the Wesleyan tradition. In addition to the introduction to/explanation of Holy Week linked above, this site also has a schedule of suggested daily readings, adapted from the Book of Common Prayer, and another schedule from the Revised Common Lectionary.

Lenten Reflections from the Upper Room: Note the lectionary scripture readings on the right side of the screen.

Approaching Holy Week

2006-04-03T12:18:00.000-06:00

Sisters and brothers, Lent is drawing to a close. This Sunday, April 9, is Palm Sunday, when we remember and celebrate Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem, when the crowds cried "Hosanna! Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord!" Yet the joyful shouts turned quickly to betrayal, and as we move through the week we remember Jesus' last supper with his disciples and the "new commandment," "love one another as I have loved you," and his capture and trial by those who were disturbed by his teachings and power. On Good Friday we remember Jesus' crucifixion, the death of a man so faithful that a Roman centurion who saw it was moved to say, "Surely this man was the Son of God!" Of course, we already know the surprise twist at the end of the story as we build toward the empty tomb on Easter Sunday, April 16, but for now we walk with Jesus in our hearts toward Jerusalem.

At Highlands UMC, all are welcome to join us for Holy Week services:

Sunday, April 9: Palm Sunday Worship, 10 a.m. The Gospel of Mark will be told as story - a wonderful way to hear and experience the Good News as though for the first time.

Thursday, April 13: Maundy Thursday Worship, 7 p.m. We remember how, on the night before Jesus died, he had dinner with his friends. The name "Maundy Thursday" comes from the Latin mandatum, meaning commandment, referring to the new commandment to love one another.

Sunday, April 16: Easter Sunday
Pancake Breakfast, 8:00 - 9:30 a.m. Join us for pancakes and fellowship as we celebrate the Risen Christ! We will be accepting donations to help fund The Mayor's Homeless Initiative. Plan on attending this fundraising, resurrection event and bring your friends!
Worship, 10 a.m. Celebrate the Resurrection joyfully with word, song, and sacrament. The United Methodist Church serves open Communion - all are welcome at the Table. As is our tradition, we end Easter worship with the Hallelujah Chorus from Handel's Messiah. What better way to praise God for the gift of new life in Christ!

Hope to see you there!

Lent continues

2006-03-21T13:20:00.000-07:00

As we continue the journey through this wilderness season, I encourage you to take some time to reflect on your spiritual practices, disciplines, and self-care. We are mid-way through Lent already, but I would like to recommend a book I'm reading: A Clearing Season: Reflections for Lent, by Sarah Parsons. This is a wonderful guide to some intentional inner work that is both practical in its specificity and powerful in its insights. I bought my copy from MethodX.net (visit their store), but I'm sure it's available from other fine booksellers.

This Sunday, March 26, Pastor Betty is back to preach, and the Highlands UMC Band will also lead us in worship. The adult Sunday school class on World Religions continues with a session on Islam.

Sunday, April 2, we will celebrate Communion. April 9 is Palm Sunday, when an ensemble performance of The Gospel of Mark will provide a new and different way for us to hear and reflect on the Good News. More information on Holy Week services coming soon - hope to see you at Highlands this week!

Lent begins

2006-02-28T13:54:00.000-07:00

I apologize for the lack of updates in the past few weeks. Things are getting busy! (I know, it's a lame excuse, but it's also true...)

Tomorrow is Ash Wednesday, the first day of Lent, when we remember Jesus' time in the wilderness and focus on our own journey of discipleship.

Pastor Betty offers this note of invitation to all:

Lent symbolizes the journey and suffering that Christ made in response to his faithfulness to God. We come together at 7:00 a.m. on Ash Wednesday for our sacrificial breakfast. Come and begin the journey towards wholeness with the fellowship of your brothers and sisters of Highlands UMC. We will have a light breakfast followed by a worship service of communion and imposition of ashes.

This Sunday we will have a new adult Sunday school class on World Religions, taught by Barbara and Paul Brekus. Contact the church office to learn more: highlands32@aol.com.

New Members & Fellowship Hall Dedication

2006-02-07T21:50:00.000-07:00

This Sunday we will have some new members join Highlands UMC during worship! Hope you'll all be there to celebrate as we welcome new members into our church family.

After worship, we will also celebrate the life and service of a faithful member who died last year, Elwyn Ashford. All are welcome to come for lunch provided by the Hospitality Committee as we dedicate the fellowship hall to Elwyn's memory as "Ashford Hall."

Updates and meetings and rehearsals, oh my!

2006-01-19T00:53:00.000-07:00

Charge Conference this past Sunday went well - we heard some great reports on the ministries of the past year, and got a glimpse of the challenges that lie ahead of us for 2006. Special thanks to Rev. Marilyn McGraw, Presiding Elder, to Sheena for all her hard work in preparing the materials, to Sonya for playing "Sent Out in Jesus' Name," and to all of you whose commitment to Highlands UMC strengthens and builds up the the Body of Christ!

The adult Sunday school class on Process Theology continues each Sunday beginning at 8:45 a.m. The books are in - contact the church to learn more.

Worship Committee (as well as Hospitality and Missions, I believe) will meet this Sunday after church. Hope you can make it!

Gospel of Mark had its first rehearsal Tuesday night, but (possibly due to a failure of communication), turnout was lower than expected. Therefore, it's not too late to sign up! We'll continue to read through and assign/select sections of the text to learn each week, so if you're interested, contact Pastor Betty soon to make sure you get some choice in which parts you'll take on. Rehearsals will be each Tuesday at 7:15 p.m. from now until Palm Sunday (April 9), when we present the entire Gospel in worship. Pretty exciting! (Okay, I'm a church geek, I know it.)

Coming next week: On Sunday, January 29, there will be an informational "New Member" meeting for those interested in joining Highlands UMC. All are welcome. For more information, contact - you guessed it! - the church office.

Charge Conference

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Our Charge Conference, the church's annual business meeting, will be this Sunday, January 15, after worship. This is an important and valuable part of our yearly cycle as we take stock of what has happened, how we have grown, and what commitments we are making as a congregation for the year to come. We will have a potluck meal before we get down to business, so please bring a dish to share. All are welcome; childcare will be provided.

Other announcements/reminders:

On Palm Sunday this year, we will present the Gospel of Mark as story, told by an ensemble of people of all ages. Rehearsals will be Tuesdays at 7:15 PM in the fellowship hall. We will begin January 17. All are welcome!

Our current adult Sunday school class is in Process Theology. For the next five Sundays we will begin at 8:45 a.m. rather than 9:00 a.m.

Choir rehearses every Wednesday at 7:00 p.m., and we are always open to new members!

Hope to see you at Highlands UMC sometime this week - visit our website to contact us or learn more.

Epiphany

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Welcome to the season of Epiphany!

Traditionally, the Sunday after Epiphany we celebrate the Baptism of the Lord, when Jesus came to the Jordan to be baptized by John. The texts for this week are Mark 1:4-11 and Acts 19:1-7. We will celebrate Communion this Sunday.

Beginning this Sunday and continuing for the next six weeks, our Adult Christian Education class will focus on Process Theology. Pastor Betty will teach this fascinating contemporary perspective on God's involvement in the world. All are welcome at 9:00 a.m. on the 3rd floor.

After church, grab a bite at coffee hour and come to the 3rd floor to learn more about performing The Gospel of Mark as story on Palm Sunday. No acting experience is necessary.

Coming next week: Charge Conference will be held shortly after worship next Sunday, January 15. Time to take stock of the past year and make plans for this new one!

Christmastide

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No, that's not what happens at the beach on December 25 (Christmas-tide, get it?! I kill me). Christmas - like most of the rest of the church calendar - is more than just a single day. In Christian tradition, the twelve days of Christmas run from December 25 to January 6, when we celebrate Epiphany, the arrival of the wise people bearing gifts for the baby Jesus (who was actually a toddler by that time).

Epiphany is about the gifts that we offer to God, and but it is also about celebrating the gift of God revealed to the world in the person of Jesus. This year, Epiphany Sunday falls on January 1, New Year's Day, which means we miss our usual Sunday-after-Christmas worship to sing Christmas carols and proclaim the joy of Christ among us. (For those who missed our brunch and carol-singing on Christmas Day, don't feel like you have to put away your Christmas music or tree just yet - you can keep on celebrating the birth of Jesus at home, really as long as you want, but at least until January 6 without being out of place in the liturgical calendar!)

This Sunday, January 1, we will celebrate Epiphany at Highlands UMC with the performance of a contemporary play, "The Gift of the Magi" (based on the short story by O. Henry, which is often assigned in high school English classes), brought to us by the Rising Curtain Theatre and Dance Academy. Come at 10:00 a.m. to begin worship as usual, and stay afterwards for refreshments and fellowship. As always, all are welcome, whether you have been in the church all your life, or have more questions than answers about this whole God/Jesus/faith thing - or both!

Highlands UMC is located at 3131 Osceola Street in northwest Denver, at the intersection of 32nd Avenue and Osceola. See our website (link at right), or call the church office at 303-477-5857 for more information.

Merry Christmas to all!

Time is drawing nigh...

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Sorry I missed posting last week. I hope you all found the information you needed one way or another! Thank you to all who offered encouragement after my preaching this morning. May God speak to you in new and surprising ways throughout this week.

For those who have not heard, our senior pastor, Betty Bradford, has completed her Doctor of Ministry degree, and is now the Rev. Dr. Betty J. Bradford. Three cheers for Betty Jo!

This week includes a continuation of the Advent study group (Tuesday at 7:00 p.m.), Choir rehearsal (Wednesday at 7:00 p.m.), and worship on Sunday, December 18 (10:00 a.m.) led by our praise band. This week we arrive at the fourth Sunday of Advent, when we celebrate the Love that God showed by taking human form in the birth of Jesus. In the Advent wreath, this is the fourth candle: Hope, Peace, Joy, and Love surround a white Christ candle to be lit on Christmas Eve.

As we draw close to Christmas, I want to let you know about a couple other opportunities for worship and fellowship that are coming up.

Thursday, December 22, at 7:00 p.m., Highlands UMC will hold a Blue Christmas service. This will be a service of music, readings, and prayer, dedicated to the reality that the holidays are a difficult time for many people. If you are finding it hard to be joyful in this season, whatever the reason, this service is for you. All are welcome.

Christmas Eve (Saturday, December 24, in case you were wondering!) we hold two worship services. The Chancel Choir will sing at both.

Family service at 6:30 p.m.: an opportunity to enjoy the presence of children and a homily from Pastor Betty.
Carols, Communion, and Candlelight at 10:30 p.m.: a time to celebrate the birth of Jesus the Christ through music and Sacrament.

Sunday, December 25 is Christmas Day! During our regular time for worship, all are invited to gather for an informal Christmas breakfast fellowship, when we will sing more carols and share stories of what Christmas means to us. Beginning at 10:00 a.m. in the Parlor (second floor, where coffee/fellowship hour is usually held).

As always, if you have any questions, feel free to post a comment or contact the church office. Blessings on your preparations for the coming of Christ!

Advent: a season of waiting and preparation

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Happy New Year! Did you know that Advent is the beginning of the liturgical (worship-based) year for the Christian church? In this season of waiting and preparing for the coming of Christ - both Christ's coming in the birth of Jesus and Christ's coming again/continually in our lives and the world to bring about the New Heaven and New Earth - we traditionally read passages from the Bible that describe the Israelites' longings for a messiah, an anointed one from God who would bring God's will to life in the midst of oppression and exile, renewing the ancient covenant. We also read about the people in the gospels who recognized and proclaimed that God was about to do something new in the person of Jesus. And some of the passages in the lectionary readings relate to early Christians' anticipation of the return of Christ to "make all things new," and to initiate the reign of God on earth.

Obviously, our culture's tendency to commercialize holy days and encourage overindulgence are not very compatible with the theological focus of Advent on waiting, keeping watch, preparing, and celebrating something so small as the birth of a child and so radical as the entrance of the divine Creator into the flesh and blood of humankind. Questions to reflect on might include, What are you waiting for in your own life? How are you making room for Christ to be born in you?

If you would like to learn more about the meaning of Advent, or would like to take some time for intentional reflection in the midst of this hectic time, you are invited to join the Advent study group on Tuesday nights (below). You may also wish to spend a little time each day in reading or meditation; in addition to the many fine print resources available for Advent (check out Cokesbury's selection, for example), you might consider The Upper Room's daily Advent reflections or study guide. If you're not already in the habit of daily devotional reading, you may be surprised at how much difference 5-10 minutes a day of focusing on God can make for your sense of grounding and spiritual wellbeing.

On a more communal note, this week Highlands UMC offers a number of opportunities to get into the spirit of the season (in case "Santa Claus Is Comin' to Town" at the mall doesn't work for you):

Tuesday, November 29, 7:00 p.m. Advent study group begins, using Night Visions: Searching the Shadows of Advent and Christmas, by Jan Richardson (details below). Books will be available for purchase at the gathering, which will last approximately an hour.

Saturday, December 3, 2:00 p.m. Hanging of the Greens. All are welcome to come for some holiday cheer with hot cider and cookies, Christmas music, and good fellowship as we decorate the church for the season. If you would like to help provide refreshments or teach a craft to others, please contact the church.

Sunday, December 4, Rev. Betty Bradford will preach on our Advent theme of Peace, as we remember that one title for Jesus as Christ is "Prince of Peace." Guest singers from the Columbine Chorale will join in singing with the Highlands Chancel Choir to provide special music. Worship begins at 10:00 a.m. After worship (starting around 11:15 a.m.), the Missions Committee will sponsor a brunch, with donations collected to provide Christmas stockings for children in HeadStart. Donations of candy for the stockings also gladly accepted!

Hope to see you sometime this week!

Happy Thanksgiving to all, and welcome to Advent!

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As often happens, Thanksgiving this year runs right up against the first Sunday of Advent. Everything feels rushed, at least to me, and it's hard to shift gears so quickly from harvest/family/giving thanks/fall/home & hearth moments to what, in the Christian liturgical calendar, is a season of preparation for the coming of Christ. It is hard enough to resist the commercialized, sentimental, headlong rush to Christmas without tripping over the turkey feast at the beginning.

But enough sermonizing. May you have much to be thankful for, and may the blessings of family and friends outweigh the struggles of life, at least for a little while.

This year, we will follow the traditional themes of Advent: Hope, Peace, Joy, and Love. Each Sunday we will light another candle on the Advent wreath, and also learn about the decorations on our Chrismon tree.

For those interested in taking some time for personal reflection and group discussion, I will be leading an Advent study group using the book Night Visions: Searching the Shadows of Advent and Christmas, by Jan Richardson. This is a beautiful devotional resource utilizing poetry, personal anecdotes, and art to explore the movement of the season. We'll meet Tuesdays at 7:00 pm, from Nov. 29 through Dec. 20, at the church. Each session will include time for discussion of the book, reflection and prayer, as well as creative expression. I highly recommend the book to all (whether you come to the group study time or not!), but know also that all are welcome to the group gatherings, even if you haven't read the book. If you'd like to know more, please contact the church to get in touch with me.

Coming this week and next:

Wednesday, November 23: No choir rehearsal! (You can come and sing anyway if you want, but most of us won't be there.)

Sunday, November 27: First Sunday of Advent. Dixie Darr and Maralyn Devlin will bring us a message on the theme of "Hope." Worship begins at 10:00 a.m., with Christian Education for all ages at 9:00 a.m.

Tuesday, November 29: Advent study group meets (7:00 p.m.). We will begin to explore Night Visions: Searching the Shadows of Advent and Christmas, by Jan Richardson (details above).

Other events, November 18-20

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In addition to our Service of Repentance and Reconciliation Proclaiming God's Welcome (see below), this Sunday at 10 am, Highlands UMC invites you to...

Friday:
United Methodist Women's Holiday Party, 6:00 p.m. at the home of Kristi Conroy (details at our website)

Saturday:
Concert by Richard Eichenberger and Patti Smith, 3:00 p.m. at the church, with donations to benefit Highlands UMC

Sunday:
Adult Sunday School class, 9:00 a.m.: Discussion of the movie Crash, led by Kristi Conroy

Questions? Visit our website to learn more about our church, or call the office at 303-477-5857.
Highlands UMC is located at 3131 Osceola St., Denver. All are welcome.

Coming soon... Advent!

Welcome! (All Are Welcome!)

2005-11-15T14:01:00.000-07:00

Welcome to the brand-new blog for Highlands United Methodist Church in Denver. We have a regular website with pictures and more long-term information, but I thought this would be a convenient way to post upcoming events, sermon quotes/commentary, and news of interest to the community.

Currently it's just me posting, so I will disclaim that I do not speak for the congregation as a whole, or any other staff members; the opinions included in this blog are mine alone.

Just to get things started, I'll go ahead and put up information on this Sunday's service, as it will have a particular focus. In response to the recent ruling by the Judicial Council of the United Methodist Church that a pastor can refuse membership if someone is gay and in a relationship, this Sunday, November 20, Highlands will offer a Service of Repentance and Reconciliation Proclaiming God's Welcome.

We will confess our part in the brokenness of the church, and affirm that the God of Jesus Christ is a God of the Open Door. The purpose of the service is to repent of the exclusion sometimes practiced in the church, and to proclaim that all people are welcome in God's family, regardless of age, race, ability level, gender identity, sexual orientation, economic condition, or other sometimes-divisive factors. If you'd like to get a jump-start on reflecting on this theme, check out Luke 14:15-24. God is throwing a party, and the doors are wide open!

Highlands UMC is located at 3131 Osceola St, Denver, and worship begins at 10:00 a.m.

Please visit our website for additional information on our congregation and how to reach us.