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DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20230205T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20230205T110000
DTSTAMP:20260404T004812
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:20260404T004812
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:20260404T004812
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:20260404T004812
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:20260404T004812
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:20260404T004812
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:20260404T004812
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:20260404T004812
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:20260404T004812
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:20260404T004812
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:20260404T004812
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:20260404T004812
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:20260404T004812
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:20260404T004812
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:20260404T004812
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:20260404T004812
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:20260404T004812
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:20260404T004812
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:20260404T004812
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:20260404T004812
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:20260404T004812
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:20260404T004812
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
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20221113T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20221113T110000
DTSTAMP:20260404T004812
CREATED:20221111T152450Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20221113T140138Z
UID:12984-1668333600-1668337200@umc-kzo.org
SUMMARY:I'll Have What He's Having
DESCRIPTION:Join us for worship on this special Second Sunday. Pastor Matt and the Second Sunday team will guide us to contemplate Jesus‘s words “I am the bread of life“ and consider what it means for Jesus to be the nourishment of our souls along with our real need to be physically nourished. Our change the world offering is an invitation for everyone to bring food items\, listed below\, to be presented at the altar during worship and then sorted into bags after worship and donated to Spring Valley Elementary for families in need during the Thanksgiving holiday. A cash offering will also be taken to purchase extra food items. God is Good! \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. \nSuggested donation items: \nRolls\nBag of Russet Potatoes\nSweet Potatoes\nCranberry Sauce\nJars/Cans of Turkey Gravy\nCanned Vegetables (variety)\nStove Top Dressing Mix\nBag of Apples or Oranges\nBox Cake Mix\nCan of Frosting \nAdditional suggested donation items: \nPancake syrup\nFlour\nSugar\nBrown sugar\nCooking spray or cooking oil\nChicken or beef broth\nCream of mushroom\, chicken\, celery etc. soups\nVanilla extract\nBaking soda\nTaco seasoning\nCondiments: Ketchup\, barbecue sauce\, ranch dressing\, etc.\nBaking mixes: brownies\, cake\, etc.\nHoney\nBreakfast cereal for kids\nHot cocoa mix\nCookie decorating items: frosting\, sprinkles\, sugar cookie mix\nChocolate chips\nSmall marshmallows
URL:https://umc-kzo.org/event/ill-have-what-hes-having/
LOCATION:MI
CATEGORIES:Service
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://umc-kzo.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/SecondSundayResized.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20221106T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20221106T110000
DTSTAMP:20260404T004812
CREATED:20221104T035105Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20221106T144154Z
UID:12795-1667728800-1667732400@umc-kzo.org
SUMMARY:All Saints Day
DESCRIPTION:All Saints is a day of remembrance for the saints. We celebrate the communion of saints as we remember the dead and celebrate our connectedness as Christians. The Christian festival of All Saints Day comes from a conviction that there is a spiritual connection between those on heaven and on earth. It is also an opportunity to express gratitude to God for the lives and deaths of all the saints that have influenced and shaped our lives. On this Sunday we hear the prayer of the Ephesians epistle is “I have heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love toward all the saints\, and for this reason I do not cease to give thanks for you as I remember you in my prayers\, that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ\, the Father of glory\, may give you a spirit of wisdom and revelation as you come to know him\, so that\, with the eyes of your heart enlightened\, you may perceive what is the hope to which he has called you\, what are the riches of his glorious inheritance among the saints…” \nOn this All Saints Day\, we remember\, we weep\, we celebrate and we look to the promised possibilities of life beyond death and are reassured that Christ stands with God to wipe away tears and turn us in hope toward the resurrection that is possible. \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. \n 
URL:https://umc-kzo.org/event/all-saints-day-2/
LOCATION:MI
CATEGORIES:Service
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://umc-kzo.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/AllSaintsResized.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20221030T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20221030T110000
DTSTAMP:20260404T004812
CREATED:20221028T160016Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20221030T134715Z
UID:12652-1667124000-1667127600@umc-kzo.org
SUMMARY:Sing Out Sunday
DESCRIPTION:In this final Sunday of our “Stewards of a Grace-filled Life” Stewardship Season\, we turn to the story of Zacchaeus. This is a man whose encounter with Jesus led to radical life transformation manifested through generous giving to his community. On this Sunday\, the congregation is invited to determine how we are each being called to respond to God’s grace at work in our lives by making financial pledges to God’s work in the world through First United Methodist Church. This will also be a music-filled Sunday with music from the chorus of First UMC AND First Congregational Church. Come and sing\, come and celebrate\, come and practice the grace-filled life. \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/sing-out-sunday/
LOCATION:MI
CATEGORIES:Service
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://umc-kzo.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/ConsecrationSunday.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20221023T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20221023T120000
DTSTAMP:20260404T004812
CREATED:20221022T012745Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20221022T012745Z
UID:12474-1666522800-1666526400@umc-kzo.org
SUMMARY:The Challenge of Jesus
DESCRIPTION:The teachings of Jesus are central to the Christianity\, yet how much do we know about Jesus in his own time? In “The Challenge of Jesus\,” John Dominic Crossan pinpoints the history and circumstances that helped Jesus’ message of nonviolent resistance to evil have such a powerful impact against Imperial Rome. Moving beyond Jesus as an abstract figure of scripture\, Crossan paints us a vivid portrait of Jesus the man. John Clark will lead this video-based class in the Parlor and on Zoom. \nClick here to access the Zoom link and join the class online on Sundays after worship from October 23 through November 13\, 2022.
URL:https://umc-kzo.org/event/the-challenge-of-jesus/
LOCATION:MI
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://umc-kzo.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Academy-Class-The-Challenge-of-Jesus-Sundays-after-worship-In-person-in-the-Parlor-or-on-Zoom-October-23-through-November-13.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20221023T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20221023T110000
DTSTAMP:20260404T004812
CREATED:20221021T150911Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20221028T155641Z
UID:12439-1666519200-1666522800@umc-kzo.org
SUMMARY:Are We Really That Different?
DESCRIPTION:Join us this Sunday in worship as we hear from our local Wesley Foundation Director\, Rev. Jeremy Simpson. Jeremy is not only the Wesley Foundation Campus Minister\, but he is also an accomplished organist\, pianist\, choir director and all-around church musician. Also in worship this Sunday our 3rd graders will be gifted with new Bibles\, and we’ll hear from Molly Williams sharing about our stewardship theme: Living Grace-Filled: The Joy of Stewardship. \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/are-we-really-that-different/
LOCATION:MI
CATEGORIES:Service
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://umc-kzo.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/AreWeReallyThatDifferent.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20221016T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20221016T110000
DTSTAMP:20260404T004812
CREATED:20221014T061413Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20221016T135459Z
UID:12274-1665914400-1665918000@umc-kzo.org
SUMMARY:Disability Awareness Sunday
DESCRIPTION:As he walked along\, he saw a man blind from birth. His disciples asked him\, ‘Rabbi\, who sinned\, this man or his parents\, that he was born blind?’ Jesus answered\, ‘Neither this man nor his parents sinned; he was born blind so that God’s works might be revealed in him. ~John 9:1-3 \nJesus said\, ‘I came into this world for judgement so that those who do not see may see\, and those who do see may become blind.’ Some of the Pharisees near him heard this and said to him\, ‘Surely we are not blind\, are we?’ Jesus said to them\, ‘If you were blind\, you would not have sin. But now that you say\, “We see\,” your sin remains. ~John 9:39-41 \nThis week we celebrate Disability Awareness Sunday. Through the story of Jesus and the ‘Man Born Blind’ found in John’s Gospel\, we confront commonly held ideas about disability and challenge each other to look more deeply. In doing so\, we celebrate the transformational power of Jesus’ message\, hear his call to challenge harmful stereotypes\, and recognize the gifts of our brothers and sisters with disabilities. \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. \nArt: “Sight” © John Bramblitt | www.bramblitt.com | Facebook and Instagram @bramblitt
URL:https://umc-kzo.org/event/disability-awareness-sunday/
LOCATION:MI
CATEGORIES:Service
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://umc-kzo.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Sight_John-Bramblitt_Resized.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20221009T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20221009T110000
DTSTAMP:20260404T004812
CREATED:20221007T055110Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20221010T134148Z
UID:12164-1665309600-1665313200@umc-kzo.org
SUMMARY:The Dream Celebration
DESCRIPTION:Join us for this special Second Sunday worship service where we will celebrate the culmination of the Dream. The Dream Team ministry of First United Methodist Church of Kalamazoo has partnered with area organizations to address equitable housing around Kalamazoo. Come and hear their story and celebration of what God has accomplished. Enjoy the Second Sunday Worship Band and a sermon focused on the Prophet Jeremiah. \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/the-dream-celebration/
LOCATION:MI
CATEGORIES:Service
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://umc-kzo.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Oct92022Resized.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20221002T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20221002T120000
DTSTAMP:20260404T004812
CREATED:20220911T051321Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20220930T011249Z
UID:11639-1664708400-1664712000@umc-kzo.org
SUMMARY:Sunday Morning Class: Grace and Gratitude
DESCRIPTION:This fall’s Stewardship campaign focuses on grace and gratitude and is based on John 1:16. This new class series is designed to look more closely at the role grace and gratitude play in the life of a Christian. Carol Hodges will lead the class\, but there will be several other presenters including Jennifer Clark\, Michel Pierce\, John Boley and Jan Schoenherr. Each week\, we will hear the hymn Amazing Grace sung by various individuals and groups. The class will be offered in person in the Parlor and also online on Zoom. \nLed by Carol Hodges\, this week’s session will focus on grace during times of difficulty. Rev. John Boley will speak about the grace he and his wife Diane experienced when their daughter Hannah had a double lung transplant. \nClick here to access the Zoom link and join the class online on Sunday\, October 2 after worship. \n 
URL:https://umc-kzo.org/event/sunday-morning-class-grace-and-gratitude-2022-09-25-2022-10-02/
LOCATION:MI
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://umc-kzo.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/Grace-and-Gratitude.png
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR