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DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20230326T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20230326T170000
DTSTAMP:20260403T132223
CREATED:20230323T171353Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230327T134211Z
UID:15630-1679824800-1679850000@umc-kzo.org
SUMMARY:Can These Bones Live?
DESCRIPTION:In this Fifth Sunday of Lent\, we gather to remember and reflect on the powerful vision Ezekial experienced. He was led by God into a valley of dry bones\, and there\, amidst the lifeless remains\, God posed a crucial question to him\, “Can these bones live?” As Ezekial prophesied to these bones\, God commanded that they would be filled with the breath of life and come to know their Creator. \nThis compelling story invites us to ponder the abundance of life that God provides. Can we recognize the glimmers of God’s abundance in our present lives? Will we persist as we receive the resuscitating breath of life from God? Do we have faith that life is possible\, always? \nIn this season of Lent\, our journey of questioning and seeking may not always yield clear answers. However\, we are drawn ever closer to the sacred center\, the Source that is God\, and our hope is nourished. We are called to come together\, to experience\, celebrate\, and share God’s love this Sunday. \nJoin us as we delve into the mysteries and wonders of our faith\, seeking solace and inspiration from the story of Ezekial and the dry bones. Let us embrace the challenge of finding God’s abundance\, even in the most unexpected places\, and rejoice in the gift of life that our Creator so graciously bestows upon us. \nJoin us in person or online for worship on Sundays at 10am. Before you join us for in person worship\, please review our updated mask optional practice.
URL:https://umc-kzo.org/event/can-these-bones-live/
LOCATION:MI
CATEGORIES:Service
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://umc-kzo.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/20230323_134634107_iOS-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20230319T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20230319T170000
DTSTAMP:20260403T132223
CREATED:20230316T172224Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230319T141658Z
UID:15500-1679220000-1679245200@umc-kzo.org
SUMMARY:Who sinned?
DESCRIPTION:In John 9:1-12\, we read about the transformative power of Jesus’ love and grace as he healed a man who was born blind. This story reminds us that just as Jesus healed the man in the story\, he can also heal us and open our eyes to the truth of his love and grace. Through prayer and reflection\, let us offer our praises and thanks to God for his blessings in our lives and for his healing power. \nWe have sinned. We put our heads in the sand. We ignored people in need. We make false assumptions and fail to be kind. We are in need of forgiveness. Good news! Our God is a merciful God. God does not punish\, hold grudges\, or keep score. When you suffer\, God weeps. When you sin\, God forgives. When you lose your way\, God comes running. \nThanks be to God for a love like that.
URL:https://umc-kzo.org/event/who-sinned/
LOCATION:MI
CATEGORIES:Service
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://umc-kzo.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/4601BEE2-219F-4546-96EC-42D614725C81-1-scaled.jpeg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20230312T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20230312T110000
DTSTAMP:20260403T132223
CREATED:20230309T211241Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230312T143026Z
UID:15322-1678615200-1678618800@umc-kzo.org
SUMMARY:“Will You Give Me a Drink?”
DESCRIPTION:This third Sunday of lent Jesus crosses cultural\, religious\, and societal boundaries by leading his disciples through Samaria. In the heat of midday\, he seeks out connection with a Samaritan woman drawing water from the well. His command to her is also a question and an invitation to a new way of life: Will you give me a drink? For the woman\, to respond is risky but life-changing. This question creates a dialogue between them in which Jesus sees the woman fully; she leaves the well transformed. This week\, we might imagine ourselves at the well and as we do this\, we will engage with the living water during our worship celebration as the First Beats lead us musically. All will be invited to the fountain to remember that Jesus seeks us to be in a relationship of sacred mutuality. If you are worshipping from home\, make sure to have a bowl of water nearby. We will also be taking a loose change\, change the world offering for the UMCOR initiative of WASH that helps to provide clean water to communities. Let us come thirsty for the Living Water that Jesus provides.   \nJoin us in person or online for worship on Sundays at 10am. Before you join us for in person worship\, please review our updated mask optional practice.
URL:https://umc-kzo.org/event/will-you-give-me-a-drink/
LOCATION:MI
CATEGORIES:Service
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://umc-kzo.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/20230308_184139895_iOS-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20230305T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20230305T120000
DTSTAMP:20260403T132223
CREATED:20230302T183857Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230305T145846Z
UID:15208-1678010400-1678017600@umc-kzo.org
SUMMARY:Seeking: How do we begin again? 
DESCRIPTION:This Second Sunday of Lent\, two texts will guide our worship. The first featuring Abram and Sarai in Genesis Chapter 12. At the end of Genesis 11\, all things pointed to death for this couple\, and then in chapter 12 all things point towards life. In chapter 11 they were without direction. At the beginning of Chapter 12 they were called to new adventure. The rest of their lives would be spent seeking the God who first called them. In the gospel lesson\, Nicodemus comes seeking Jesus in the cover of night. Both men are Rabbi’s\, and Nicodemus is curious about Jesus’s teaching. The result is an invitation from Jesus to Nicodemus to be born again. In both texts God casts an invitation for new life. In Lent\, in all times really\, God casts an invitation to all for new life. Are you curious? May our worship be a time of seeking God’s newness\, to begin again.   \nJoin us in person or online for worship on Sundays at 10am. Before you join us for in person worship\, please review our updated mask optional practice.
URL:https://umc-kzo.org/event/second-sunday-of-lent/
LOCATION:MI
CATEGORIES:Service
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://umc-kzo.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/20230222_163432340_iOS-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20230302T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20230330T130000
DTSTAMP:20260403T132223
CREATED:20230302T174314Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230302T174314Z
UID:15205-1677758400-1680181200@umc-kzo.org
SUMMARY:Lenten Organ Series
DESCRIPTION:Make sure to keep an eye out for these dates. Our Lenten Organ Series kicked off on March 2 and will continue throughout the season of Lent. Please join us! \n\nMarch 9 \nMarilyn Ossentjuk\, Organist and Minister of Music at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church\, Kalamazoo \n\nMarch 16 \nDr. Andrew Meagher\, Pastoral Musician\, St. Kieran’s Catholic Church\, Shelby Township \n\nMarch 23 \nDr. Thomas Fielding\, Director of Music at St. Augustine Cathedral\, Kalamazoo \n\nMarch 30 \nMi Zhou\, Doctoral Student in Organ Performance at the University of Michigan and Mayumi Naramura\, Graduate Student in Early Keyboard Instruments at the University of Michigan
URL:https://umc-kzo.org/event/lenten-organ-series/
LOCATION:MI
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://umc-kzo.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/3.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20230226T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20230226T100000
DTSTAMP:20260403T132223
CREATED:20230223T165557Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230223T194433Z
UID:15080-1677405600-1677405600@umc-kzo.org
SUMMARY:SEEKING: HONEST QUESTIONS FOR A DEEPER FAITH
DESCRIPTION:“Who Will You Listen To?” \nAre you distracted? What are the messages that fill your days? Do you listen to the demands of “do more” and “be more?” The season of Lent calls us to slow our pace\, make space for silence and reflection\, and have ears and hearts to listen to the still\, small voice of God. Our worship series for Lent is about the spiritual discipline of seeking and asking the questions that will lead us to a deeper faith. On this first Sunday of Lent\, we ask\, “Who will you listen to?” To be faith filled seekers we must maintain a posture of listening that allows us to stay open and curious rather than closed and calloused. Our Ash Wednesday worship was cancelled due to an ice storm. We will have an imposition of ashes as part of our worship. If you are joining us online\, please find something to symbolize ashes. Come\, worship and hear Love calling your name.   \nJoin us in person or online for worship on Sundays at 10am. Before you join us for in person worship\, please review our updated mask optional practice.
URL:https://umc-kzo.org/event/seeking-honest-questions-for-a-deeper-faith/
LOCATION:MI
CATEGORIES:Service
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://umc-kzo.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/20230222_163432340_iOS-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20230219T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20230219T113000
DTSTAMP:20260403T132223
CREATED:20230216T201411Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230218T225649Z
UID:14971-1676800800-1676806200@umc-kzo.org
SUMMARY:Grief & Being Present to the Process in Hope: The Blessing of Light
DESCRIPTION:Join us this Sunday in worship. We celebrate the transfiguration of Jesus as we ascend the mountain with Peter\, James\, and John to witness Jesus the Christ revealed in dazzling glory. The disciples may have other mountain treks on their minds\, as mountaintop experiences are marked with significance\, change\, and greater understandings of the one named “I Am.” This week we conclude our worship series on “Grief and Being Present to the Process in Hope.” As we are present to our past and current grief\, we also embrace the grace of transfiguration that offers us eyes and hearts to see the divine presence within the world and within ourselves. As we seek to be reflections of divine love and light\, we light individual candles of prayer that will join in a collective light that is a witness to the potential of resurrection. If you worship with us online\, please bring a candle to your worship space. Let us experience this dazzling light and trust that God can transfigure us.  \nJoin us in person or online for worship on Sundays at 10am. Before you join us for in person worship\, please review our updated mask optional practice.
URL:https://umc-kzo.org/event/grief-being-present-to-the-process-in-hope-the-blessing-of-light/
LOCATION:MI
CATEGORIES:Service
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://umc-kzo.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/20230213_165643944_iOS-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20230212T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20230212T120000
DTSTAMP:20260403T132223
CREATED:20230209T210802Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230212T150049Z
UID:14845-1676196000-1676203200@umc-kzo.org
SUMMARY:Grief & Being Present to the Process in Hope: Releasing
DESCRIPTION:light candles? How can we be open to the spirit moving through us as we move through darkness? How do we find space for rest? Anointing?   \nGrief can come with being overwhelmed by life’s demands. During the pandemic the lines between “home space” and “workspace” were blurred and remain so. When the world opened up\, for many\, the pace of life moved quickly from zero to one hundred and it feels as though we cannot catch up or catch a break. We grieve for a slower time\, and for the opportunities to notice one another\, to pay attention\, to love\, and to be loved. God’s intention was never for us to work and consume 24/7. God’s intention was\, and is\, for us to have space to rest\, to play\, to release\, and to renew. It’s called SABBATH\, and it is a practice grounded firmly within our scriptures. Come to worship this day and learn to live a SABBATH Centered Life.
URL:https://umc-kzo.org/event/grief-being-present-to-the-process-in-hope-releasing/
LOCATION:MI
CATEGORIES:Service
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://umc-kzo.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/White-Minimalist-Travel-Magazine.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20230205T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20230205T110000
DTSTAMP:20260403T132223
CREATED:20230202T210803Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230205T134551Z
UID:14672-1675591200-1675594800@umc-kzo.org
SUMMARY:Grief & Being Present to the Process in Hope: Prayers
DESCRIPTION:“While he lived on earth\, anticipating death\, Jesus cried out in pain and wept in sorrow as he offered up priestly prayers to God.“ ~Hebrews 5: 7   \nJoin us this Sunday in worship \nWe are beginning to move forward after the intensities of pandemic living. Yet\, we may experience lingering grief. Grief is more easily named if we have experienced a great loss but when the loss comes about more subtlety\, or it is layered we may be confused by our lack luster approach to living. Grief is inevitable because loss and disappointment are inevitable experiences of life. This week we begin a short series on grief\, and we ask ourselves “how do we let grief heal us rather than devastate us in the long run?” Jesus sighs\, cries\, laments\, even groans but does not let sorrow hinder his passion for life. His responses to grief and the grief of others can help us to heal and to help others who grieve. Prayer is healing and facilitates a release of the multitude of emotions felt in grieving. Let us pray. Let us heal. Let us worship Christ\, the healer of our every ill.  \nJoin us in person or online for worship on Sundays at 10am. Before you join us for in person worship\, please review our updated mask optional practice.  
URL:https://umc-kzo.org/event/grief-being-present-to-the-process-in-hope-prayers/
LOCATION:MI
CATEGORIES:Service
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://umc-kzo.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/White-Minimalist-Travel-Magazine.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20230129T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20230129T110000
DTSTAMP:20260403T132223
CREATED:20230126T192637Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230129T143501Z
UID:14508-1674986400-1674990000@umc-kzo.org
SUMMARY:Laity Sunday
DESCRIPTION:Join us this Sunday in worship  \nThis is Laity Sunday\, and our worship will be based on Paul’s first letter to Corinthians (1: 10-18) \nIn his first letter to the Corinthians\, Paul emphasizes the importance of unity and harmony within the community of believers. He writes in chapter 1\, verse 10\, “I appeal to you\, brothers and sisters\, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ\, that all of you agree with one another in what you say and that there be no divisions among you\, but that you be perfectly united in mind and thought. Paul goes on to explain that this unity is not just a nice idea\, but is essential for the effectiveness of the church’s mission. \nThe Corinthian church like our current society was plagued by divisions and factions\, with different groups fighting for power and recognition. In his letter Paul reminds them that this kind of behavior is not in line with the teachings of Jesus\, and that true unity can only be achieved through humility and a shared commitment to the gospel. \nLay Leaders\, Tammy Eaton and Donna Dunyak\, will be putting effort into organizing and promoting small group activities this year to create community and a means to build relationships within our congregation. \nJoin us in person or online for worship on Sundays at 10am. Before you join us for in person worship\, please review our updated mask optional practice.
URL:https://umc-kzo.org/event/laity-sunday/
LOCATION:MI
CATEGORIES:Service
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://umc-kzo.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/20230125_172505197_iOS-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20230122T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20230122T110000
DTSTAMP:20260403T132223
CREATED:20230119T160500Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230122T150411Z
UID:14340-1674381600-1674385200@umc-kzo.org
SUMMARY:January 22\, 2022  The Invitation
DESCRIPTION:“Jesus went throughout Galilee\, teaching in their synagogues and proclaiming the good news of the kingdom and curing every disease and every sickness among the people.” ~Matthew 4: 23  \nJesus is on the move. He has emerged from the wilderness\, and he begins his ministry with an undeniable energy. His movement is invitational\, and he meets people right where they are living their lives in ordinary ways. His invitation beckons people to dare to believe in the possibility of collective change. He feeds those who are hungry for justice\, and he claims those who have been outcast and despised. He is love on the move. This Spirit of Christ still moves in and around us. We are invited each day\, to come and follow and allow the life of Christ to grow in us. Will we hear the summons and answer?  
URL:https://umc-kzo.org/event/january-22-2022-the-invitation/
LOCATION:MI
CATEGORIES:Service
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://umc-kzo.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/20230119_150008245_iOS-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20230118T123000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20230118T170000
DTSTAMP:20260403T132223
CREATED:20230119T190213Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230119T190300Z
UID:14346-1674045000-1674061200@umc-kzo.org
SUMMARY:End Gun Violence Michigan Conference
DESCRIPTION:End Gun Violence Conference      January 18th 2023  \n  \nNo matter what your political views are\, there is no denying there is a huge problem with gun safety in our country. The End Gun Violence Conference aims to explain why and how these things happen. The aim of the conference was to create awareness for legislature to pass new anti-gun laws. No\, no one is taking anyone’s guns away but rather these laws aim at preventing disasters from happening\, there is a long way before we get to the point where gun violence is a non-issue.  \nEnd Gun Violence Michigan is a coalition of over 130 faith and secular leaders from across the state dedicated to reducing gun violence in our state.  \nRev. Julie Kline started by talking about MLK and his views on nonviolence and the juxtaposition of how he in the end got struck down by that same violence he so loudly detested. The absurdity of that still lives on today\, FUMC\, moms demand action and the end gun violence Michigan conference are asking for new laws and more importantly a change.  \nDr. Oreste Romeo discussed the long-term impact from gunshot injuries and how it affects the psyche of communities. He emphasized that this is not a political statement\, but rather common sense. He also talked about the importance of correct ownership and how mass casualties take the spotlight\, but multiple casualties are largely forgotten but remain a big issue in our state.   \nHe also emphasized the trauma doctors can have when treating children and young adults. Specifically talking about High-velocity rounds that create very significant wounds\, and even with intervention\, it is almost impossible to return to normal life.  \nDr. Bob Beck discussed how gun violence is as an actual health epidemic it affects more than just the victims. The issue is deeper than it may seem it affects doctors\, children’s parents\, and the community as a whole. He also explained gun violence is the #1 leading cause of death in children in America\, over health conditions\, car crashes\, etc. We have a moral responsibility to call for health and safety.  \nRev. Heather McDougall-Walsh and the End Gun Violence Michigan conference proposed 4 main changes.  \n\n Universal background checks \n Safe storage for firearms in household\n Education and training for storage safety\n Red Flag laws. This because of the relation between domestic violence and gun violence.\n\nAdvocates of gun safety are not about taking away the 2nd amendment rights\, it is about what we can do to ensure the safety of our communities. It is this generation’s responsibility\, not the next\, to take action now.  \nLink to the whole conference.
URL:https://umc-kzo.org/event/end-gun-violence-michigan-conference/
LOCATION:MI
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://umc-kzo.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/IMG_7051-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20230115T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20230226T170000
DTSTAMP:20260403T132223
CREATED:20230105T224434Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230105T224434Z
UID:14019-1673780400-1677430800@umc-kzo.org
SUMMARY:Manna and Mercy: A Brief History of God's Unfolding Promise to Mend the Entire Universe
DESCRIPTION:We are excited to announce an 8-week Bible study with Pastor Matt Weiler\, beginning on Sunday\, January 15th\, after worship. During this study\, we will walk through the Narrative Arc of Scripture\, from Genesis to Revelation\, learning to read and interpret scripture in ways that reveal God’s intentions of love and life for all of creation and humanity. \nThis class is open to adults and youth and while each session will stand alone\, there will be a reading guide with reflection questions for any participants who wish to dig a little deeper during the week between sessions. If you would like a reading guide before the first session\, please email Pastor Matt. \nWe hope you will join us for this exciting opportunity to grow in your understanding and knowledge of the Bible.We hope you can make it! For more information\, please contact Rev. Matt at mweiler@umc-kzo.org.
URL:https://umc-kzo.org/event/manna-and-mercy-a-brief-history-of-gods-unfolding-promise-to-mend-the-entire-universe/
LOCATION:MI
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://umc-kzo.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/2.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20230115T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20230115T110000
DTSTAMP:20260403T132223
CREATED:20230112T212348Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230115T145658Z
UID:14175-1673776800-1673780400@umc-kzo.org
SUMMARY:2nd Sunday After the Epiphany
DESCRIPTION:Join us this Sunday! \n On this Second Sunday after the Epiphany we continue in a line of Gospel readings through which we either discover\, or are encouraged to seek out Jesus\, the one who has come as a light for the world. This week our text picks up following Jesus’s Baptism\, with John the Baptist pointing away from himself and towards Jesus. We hear a playful exchange between Jesus and two of his earliest disciples asking Jesus\, “Where are you staying?” Jesus’s response sets the tone for the entire Gospel of John answering them\, “Come and see.” This is the invitation of Jesus to us in this New Year\, in this season of Epiphany – to “Come and See”\, to discover where Jesus may be leading\, and to know God more fully. Along with Jesus’s invitation to Come and see” let the opening line of our Psalm be our guide\, “I waited patiently for the Lord…”   \nJoin us in person or online for worship on Sundays at 10am. Before you join us for in person worship\, please review our updated mask optional practice.
URL:https://umc-kzo.org/event/2nd-sunday-after-the-epiphany/
LOCATION:MI
CATEGORIES:Service
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://umc-kzo.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/20230111_190509911_iOS-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20230115T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20230215T170000
DTSTAMP:20260403T132223
CREATED:20230112T224000Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230112T224000Z
UID:14182-1673769600-1676480400@umc-kzo.org
SUMMARY:Christian Nationalism & Dominionism
DESCRIPTION:“Christian Nationalism” and “Dominionism” in discussions about the intersection of religion and politics in our current society. But what exactly do these terms refer to\, and how do they impact our daily lives? If you’re looking to gain a deeper understanding of these movements\, then you’ll be interested in a new Academy Class that’s being offered from January 15th through February 5th\, taught by John Boley. In this class\, you’ll learn more about the origins and beliefs of Christian Nationalism and Dominionism\, as well as the ways in which they influence our society and culture. Additionally\, you will also explore the implications of these movements on our politics\, economy and society at large. Don’t miss this opportunity to deepen your knowledge and become more informed about these issues that are affecting us all. Join John Boley’s class\, and take the first step in understanding and becoming aware of the impact of Christian Nationalism and Dominionism on our nation.
URL:https://umc-kzo.org/event/christian-nationalism-dominionism/
LOCATION:MI
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://umc-kzo.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Academy-Class.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20230108T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20230108T110000
DTSTAMP:20260403T132223
CREATED:20230105T223550Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230108T143446Z
UID:14013-1673172000-1673175600@umc-kzo.org
SUMMARY:Baptism of the Lord
DESCRIPTION:Join us this Sunday in worship as we learn of the Baptism of the lord. \nAs we celebrate the love of God\, let us set aside the struggle and instead embrace acceptance – both for ourselves and for others. Let us remember that Jesus was named and claimed by God\, and we too are called to live into this same identity. May the splash of baptismal water upon our foreheads serve as a reminder of the love and grace that surrounds us\, and may we carry this love into the world as we offer acceptance and belonging to all those around us. \nJoin us in person or online for worship on Sundays at 10am. Before you join us for in person worship\, please review our updated mask optional practice.
URL:https://umc-kzo.org/event/baptism-of-the-lord/
LOCATION:MI
CATEGORIES:Service
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://umc-kzo.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/20230104_173908518_iOS-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20230101T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20230101T233000
DTSTAMP:20260403T132223
CREATED:20221229T214413Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230101T045159Z
UID:13922-1672567200-1672615800@umc-kzo.org
SUMMARY:Chosen Home: First Sunday after Christmas
DESCRIPTION:Join us for worship on New Year’s Day\, the 2nd Sunday of Christmas. We will continue singing some of the favorite Christmas carols in our hymnal\, hear the story of the Wise One’s who followed the star to Bethlehem\, and share the bread and cup of communion. Pastor Matt will be preaching a sermon titled “Plagiarized Epiphany”\, as we look towards the season of Epiphany.\n\n\nThere will not be Nursery\, Godly Play\, or Sunday School for children. But children are welcome to attend worship on these two holidays Sundays in the sanctuary with their families! Nursery\, Godly Play\, and Sunday School return Sunday\, January 8\, 2023.\n\nJoin us in person or online for worship. Before you join us for in-person worship\, please review our updated mask optional practice.
URL:https://umc-kzo.org/event/chosen-home-first-sunday-after-christmas/
LOCATION:MI
CATEGORIES:Service
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://umc-kzo.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/Untitled-design-4.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20221225T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20221225T110000
DTSTAMP:20260403T132223
CREATED:20221223T164120Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20221223T164330Z
UID:13791-1671962400-1671966000@umc-kzo.org
SUMMARY:Christmas Day
DESCRIPTION:We want to extend a warm and heartfelt invitation to join us for our Christmas day service. \nWe will come together as a community to celebrate the birth of Jesus and the love and hope that His arrival brings. The service will be filled with the sounds of carols and the readings of beloved scripture passages\, as well as a message of joy and peace. \nWe believe that Christmas is a time to come together and remember the greatest gift of all: the gift of salvation through Jesus Christ. Whether you are a regular attendee or are new to our community\, we would love for you to be a part of this special day with us. \nWe hope that you will consider joining us for this celebration of faith and love. We look forward to seeing you there! \nAs we open ourselves to worship\, remember that this is not really our day or the family’s day. This is about Jesus. First and foremost\, this is the day when the distance between heaven and earth was removed and God set up camp among us; God moved into the neighborhood or “tented among us\,” which is proclaimed in the Gospel of John. It is about the closeness of the living presence of God\, incarnate in the one we call Jesus. \n  \nThis Service will not be live streamed!
URL:https://umc-kzo.org/event/christmas-day/
LOCATION:MI
CATEGORIES:Service
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://umc-kzo.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/Kalamazoo-First-United-Methodist-Church.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20221224T230000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20221225T003000
DTSTAMP:20260403T132223
CREATED:20221222T182659Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20221224T174857Z
UID:13765-1671922800-1671928200@umc-kzo.org
SUMMARY:11:00 pm Service Carols & Communion (4 pm and 11 pm services are canceled. We will still have 7 pm )
DESCRIPTION:Lessons\, Carols\, and Communion.Nursery not available \nMary and Joseph are journeying even though she is in the last stages of her pregnancy. They travel to be counted in the census; it is a fulfillment of their civic duty. As the time comes for the birth\, they need a safe place. There is no room and yet\, one person finds a space\, extends an unexpected and holy invitation. Jesus is born into this world without an invitation\, but his birth only comes into fruition because repeatedly\, humanity says “yes” to unexpected blessings and guests. On this Christmas Eve\, may we make room in our own lives for the holy. As we raise our candles amid a darkened night\, we sing our hopes of a dawn of redeeming grace. Let us celebrate this holiest of nights and find ourselves invited home. \nJoin us in person or online for worship. Before you join us for in-person worship\, please review our updated mask optional practice.
URL:https://umc-kzo.org/event/1100-pm-service-carols-communion/
LOCATION:MI
CATEGORIES:Service
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://umc-kzo.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/Add-a-subheading.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20221224T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20221224T203000
DTSTAMP:20260403T132223
CREATED:20221222T182144Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20221224T233316Z
UID:13762-1671908400-1671913800@umc-kzo.org
SUMMARY:7:00 pm Christmas Eve Service: Lessons & Carols
DESCRIPTION:Important update for the 4pm and 11Pm Service! \nDue to inclement weather\, the 4pm and 11pm services on Christmas Eve have been cancelled. However\, we will still be holding a service at 7pm\, which will be livestreamed for those who are unable to attend in person. We are still having Sunday service at 10 am tomorrow. \nScripture lessons and Christmas carols with the choir\, organ\, and brass ensemble. Make sure you join us in person or online\, this Service will be livestreamed. \nMary and Joseph are journeying even though she is in the last stages of her pregnancy. They travel to be counted in the census; it is a fulfillment of their civic duty. As the time comes for the birth\, they need a safe place. There is no room and yet\, one person finds a space\, extends an unexpected and holy invitation. Jesus is born into this world without an invitation\, but his birth only comes into fruition because repeatedly\, humanity says “yes” to unexpected blessings and guests. On this Christmas Eve\, may we make room in our own lives for the holy. As we raise our candles amid a darkened night\, we sing our hopes of a dawn of redeeming grace. Let us celebrate this holiest of nights and find ourselves invited home. \nJoin us in person or online for worship. Before you join us for in-person worship\, please review our updated mask optional practice.
URL:https://umc-kzo.org/event/700-pm-christmas-eve-service-lessons-carols/
LOCATION:MI
CATEGORIES:Service
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://umc-kzo.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/Add-a-subheading.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20221224T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20221224T170000
DTSTAMP:20260403T132223
CREATED:20221222T181204Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20221224T174920Z
UID:13757-1671897600-1671901200@umc-kzo.org
SUMMARY:4:00 pm service  Children & Family Worship (4 pm and 11 pm services are canceled. We will still have 7 pm)
DESCRIPTION:This service will include a sweet and simple retelling of the night of Jesus’ birth and the singing of Christmas Carols. \nMary and Joseph are journeying even though she is in the last stages of her pregnancy. They travel to be counted in the census; it is a fulfillment of their civic duty. As the time comes for the birth\, they need a safe place. There is no room and yet\, one person finds a space\, extends an unexpected and holy invitation. Jesus is born into this world without an invitation\, but his birth only comes into fruition because repeatedly\, humanity says “yes” to unexpected blessings and guests. On this Christmas Eve\, may we make room in our own lives for the holy. As we raise our candles amid a darkened night\, we sing our hopes of a dawn of redeeming grace. Let us celebrate this holiest of nights and find ourselves invited home. \nChildcare will be available during this service.    \nJoin us in person for this special Christmas Eve service. Before you join us for in-person worship\, please review our updated mask optional practice.
URL:https://umc-kzo.org/event/400-pm-service-children-family-worship/
LOCATION:MI
CATEGORIES:Service
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://umc-kzo.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/Add-a-subheading.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20221218T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20221218T123000
DTSTAMP:20260403T132223
CREATED:20221123T193353Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20221217T234136Z
UID:13299-1671361200-1671366600@umc-kzo.org
SUMMARY:Advent Academy Class (week 4 of 4)
DESCRIPTION:Prepare the Way of the Lord!\nIn each of the Gospels\, the story of Jesus is intertwined with that of his cousin John\, the one whom the prophets foretold would come to “prepare the way of the Lord.” For centuries\, Christians have turned to the story and message of John the Baptist in the weeks leading up to Christmas. In this video-based class\, Rev. Adam Hamilton explores the Advent themes of John’s life and ministry and how John calls all followers of Jesus to prepare our hearts for his coming. When we hear the message of John the Baptist\, it makes us and our world ready to receive Christ. John Clark will facilitate the discussion.\n\nLink to the hardcover book below:\nPrepare the Way of the Lord! book  Rev Adam Hamilton 
URL:https://umc-kzo.org/event/advent-academy-class-week-4-of-4/
LOCATION:MI
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://umc-kzo.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Advent.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20221218T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20221218T110000
DTSTAMP:20260403T132223
CREATED:20221215T230118Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20221216T162724Z
UID:13632-1671357600-1671361200@umc-kzo.org
SUMMARY:Fourth Sunday of Advent Close to Home: Seeking Sanctuary
DESCRIPTION:Mary has received the news from the angel Gabriel that she will bear a son named Jesus\, and he will be called the Son of the Most High. Mary then travels to Elizabeth and Zechariah’s home to find refuge and absorb her new calling. With Elizabeth she receives a safe haven which allows her to open her heart and sing praises. Sanctuary is essential for all and is established anywhere God’s love dwells freely and abundantly. \nPraises on this morning will be sung by the First Beats musical ensemble as they present the Christmas musical “Room for Christmas.” Through this musical the children will lead us to discover the true joy and wonder of Christmas by making room for what really matters. Come and worship and let us experience the love and wonder offered by the advent of Christ. \nJoin us in person or online for worship on Sundays at 10 am. Before you join us for in-person worship\, please review our updated mask optional practice.
URL:https://umc-kzo.org/event/fourth-sunday-of-advent-close-to-home-seeking-sanctuary/
LOCATION:MI
CATEGORIES:Service
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://umc-kzo.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/Copy-of-First-United-Methodist-Church.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20221204T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20221204T193000
DTSTAMP:20260403T132223
CREATED:20220505T192837Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20220911T061420Z
UID:8239-1670176800-1670182200@umc-kzo.org
SUMMARY:Youth Group
DESCRIPTION:Youth Group is a gathering just for young people in 6th through 12th grade. The group meets most Sunday evenings in the Youth Center downstairs at First United Methodist Church of Kalamazoo. For upcoming meeting information\, please contact Pastor Matt at mweiler@umc-kzo.org.
URL:https://umc-kzo.org/event/youth-tribe-2-2022-12-04/
LOCATION:MI
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://umc-kzo.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/YouthTribe.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20221204T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20221204T230000
DTSTAMP:20260403T132223
CREATED:20221201T214901Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20221201T215107Z
UID:13496-1670148000-1670194800@umc-kzo.org
SUMMARY:Laying the foundation. Second Sunday of Advent
DESCRIPTION:As we celebrate the second Sunday of Advent\, we hear of the birth of John the Baptist and the dramatic response of his father\, Zechariah who has been mute throughout Elizabeth’s pregnancy. Zechariah prophesies about God’s salvation that will guide our path into the way of peace. This is a foundation that centers on a way of being that fosters God’s shalom. Let us celebrate the laying of this foundation that is the actions of forgiveness\, mercy\, compassion and peace. Come\, O Come\, Emmanuel\, guide our feet. \nJoin us in person or online for worship on Sundays at 10 am. Before you join us for in-person worship\, please review our updated mask optional practice. \n  \n\nLed by: Rev. Julie Kline \n\n\nLuke 1:57-66
URL:https://umc-kzo.org/event/laying-the-foundation-second-sunday-of-advent/
LOCATION:MI
CATEGORIES:Service
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://umc-kzo.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/Sunday-December-4-1.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20221204
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20221205
DTSTAMP:20260403T132223
CREATED:20221123T224828Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20221201T231258Z
UID:13313-1670112000-1670198399@umc-kzo.org
SUMMARY:Advent Labyrinth: A Prayer Practice
DESCRIPTION:There is a long history of the use of labyrinths in Christian worship. The purpose of the labyrinth is to slow us down and\, in this season\, we contemplate the themes of Advent. The Advent and Christmas scriptures are rich with home metaphors and imagery. In these scriptures\, home is both physical and metaphorical\, something we seek and something we are called to build. In many ways\, these scriptures are like designs detailing the dreams of a God who makes a home with us. Ultimately\, God is our home and resting place. God draws near and makes a home on earth; sacred ground is all around us. Labyrinth prayer walking can ready our spirits to be part of God’s Kingdom and for the Christ to settle into the manger of our hearts. The labyrinth will be set up in Wesley Hall throughout the season of Advent. You are invited to walk the labyrinth after worship on Sunday or any weekday between the hours of 9am-4pm. It is safe for several people to walk the labyrinth at one time but please be allow space for each walker. This labyrinth requires the removal of your shoes to preserve the cloth of the labyrinth. The labyrinth can take 10-20 minutes to walk\, depending on your pace and the time you spend in the middle. There will also be prayer stations set up outside the four corners of the labyrinth. Please make use of them to enhance your time of prayer and contemplation. If you have never walked a labyrinth\, I encourage you to try this ancient prayer practice to quiet your mind\, center yourself\, and allow your spirit to be in prayer\, curiosity\, and expectation. Peace be with you. \nPastor Julie \nHow to walk a labyrinth: \nTake off your shoes; this is holy ground. Enter the labyrinth slowly\, calming and clearing your mind. This may be done by repeating a prayer or chant. \nOpen your senses and focus on the process of taking slow and deliberate steps. Bring to mind a prayer or spiritual question to contemplate during the walk to the center. \nReaching the center\, pause to reflect\, pray\, and listen for an answer or for more profound revelation. Now begin the return journey. Pray or reflect further. Upon \nexiting\, absorb the experience with continued reflection\, prayer\, or journaling. There are four prayer stations around the room for you to use before or after walking the labyrinth. Peace be with you. \n 
URL:https://umc-kzo.org/event/advent-labyrinth-a-prayer-practice/
LOCATION:MI
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://umc-kzo.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Advent-Labyrinth.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20221127T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20221127T230000
DTSTAMP:20260403T132223
CREATED:20221123T213651Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20221126T192024Z
UID:13304-1669543200-1669590000@umc-kzo.org
SUMMARY:First sunday of advent
DESCRIPTION:On this first Sunday in Advent\, we will set our hearts to the rhythm of a new liturgical season. This practice is the response to our Lukan text imploring us to “…be on guard\, so our hearts are not weighed down…” There is indeed much from which to guard our hearts; the worries of an ongoing pandemic\, political divisions\, and the war in Ukraine\, not to mention those unspoken places of restlessness within our own hearts. And yet Jesus assures us these things will pass\, while God’s word will remain forever. This word promises a day of hope\, love\, joy\, and peace and our worship acknowledges a longing for this day akin to a kind of homesickness. And so\, homesick for a day when God’s promises are fulfilled\, we enter this new season with the hymn on our lips. \nJoin us in person or online for worship on Sundays at 10 am. Before you join us for in-person worship\, please review our updated mask optional practice. \n  \nLed by: Rev. Matt Weiler \nTodays Bulletin \nluke 21:25-36 \n 
URL:https://umc-kzo.org/event/first-sunday-of-advent/
LOCATION:MI
CATEGORIES:Service
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://umc-kzo.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Add-a-heading-2.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20221127T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20221127T110000
DTSTAMP:20260403T132223
CREATED:20221126T230449Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20221126T230449Z
UID:13396-1669543200-1669546800@umc-kzo.org
SUMMARY:Advent 2022: Close to Home
DESCRIPTION:On this first Sunday in Advent\, we will set our hearts to the rhythm of a new liturgical season. This practice is the response to our Lukan text imploring us to “…be on guard\, so our hearts are not weighed down…” There is indeed much from which to guard our hearts; the worries of an ongoing pandemic\, political divisions\, and the war in Ukraine\, not to mention those unspoken places of restlessness within our own hearts. And yet Jesus assures us these things will pass\, while God’s word will remain forever. This word promises a day of hope\, love\, joy\, and peace and our worship acknowledges a longing for this day akin to a kind of homesickness. And so\, homesick for a day when God’s promises are fulfilled\, we enter this new season with the hymn on our lips. \nJoin us in person or online for worship on Sundays at 10 am. Before you join us for in-person worship\, please review our updated mask optional practice. \nLed by: Rev. Matt Weiler \nTodays Bulletin \nluke 21:25-36
URL:https://umc-kzo.org/event/advent-2022-close-to-home/
LOCATION:MI
CATEGORIES:Service
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://umc-kzo.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Sunday-December-4.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20221120T111500
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20221120T123000
DTSTAMP:20260403T132223
CREATED:20221117T163358Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20221117T163358Z
UID:13172-1668942900-1668947400@umc-kzo.org
SUMMARY:The future of the Methodist Church
DESCRIPTION:Deb Search Willoughby and David Lundquist will lead an Academy Class on Sunday\, November 20 at in the Parlor. This class will provide the opportunity to hear more about what is happening within the denomination\, to discuss and ask questions\, and to learn how the UMC’s future may or may not impact First United Methodist Church of Kalamazoo. \nSince early 2019 United Methodists eagerly awaited the May 2020 General Conference\, where over 800 delegates from around the world would make important decisions about the future of The United Methodist Church. The pandemic caused the postponement of that General Conference until May 2024. \nIn the meantime\, several things have happened that will shape the UMC’s future. Every local church and all parts of The United Methodist Church have experienced the pandemic and its impact on ministry. In many places membership and finances are less. In others\, ministry and finances have remained vital. A small percentage of churches have left or are choosing to leave the denomination (a process called “disaffiliation”) to become part of the Global Methodist Church\, a newly formed body attracting those who no longer feel they can be part of The United Methodist Church. \n 
URL:https://umc-kzo.org/event/the-future-of-the-methodist-church/
LOCATION:MI
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://umc-kzo.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/The-future-of-theethodist-church-m.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20221120T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20221120T230000
DTSTAMP:20260403T132223
CREATED:20221117T160728Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20221120T150044Z
UID:13167-1668938400-1668985200@umc-kzo.org
SUMMARY:Reign of Christ Sunday
DESCRIPTION:“For in him all the fullness of God was pleased to dwell\, and through him\, God was pleased to reconcile to himself all things…”\nColossians 1: 19a \nWhat does it mean to speak of the Christ who reigns or Christ the king? The Gospels will undoubtedly tell us that Jesus redefined what it meant to be king\, this is his purpose in coming. The one who reigns in our lives was treated as a common criminal by an oppressive government and was executed publicly\, intended to humiliate and destroy. Yet\, Christ reigns. With power\, he is our king that is on the ground with us. He is the reconciler that shows us the power of joy and the way out of darkness. This is the one whom we gather to worship and more importantly\, follow. The one who reigns in our hearts\, our lives and is our ground of being. Come\, let us worship with joy!
URL:https://umc-kzo.org/event/reign-of-christ-sunday/
LOCATION:MI
CATEGORIES:Service
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://umc-kzo.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/20221116_171201653_iOS-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR