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Fourth Sunday of Lent - We are a reconciling congregation
March 15, 2026, 10 am
Led by: Rev. Julie Kline
Many years ago, our church community crafted the words for our Reconciling Statement. It was important work as the denomination struggled with welcoming and affirming LGBTQI+ persons. In many ways, our congregation was ahead of the times in 2008. The statement was crafted with great care, painstakingly considering each word. The desired outcome was to have a statement that would endure and be welcoming to all persons and “affirm those who are marginalized for any reason.” What does it mean, today, to be a reconciling congregation? Jesus shows us that reconciliation is choosing love and forgiveness. Choosing love as a daily spiritual discipline interrupts the cycles of apathy, disconnection, and “us and them.” Let us worship, seeking God's presence as we support one another, and follow Jesus’ example of choosing love in all things.
Worship
Baptism and Holy Communion
Sacraments
The United Methodist Church celebrates two sacraments: Baptism and Holy Communion (Lord’s Supper or Eucharist). These were both instituted or commanded by Christ in the Gospels.
“Sacraments are sign-acts, which include words, actions, and physical elements. They both express and convey the gracious love of God, making it visible and effective. In all our brokenness and limitations, we can receive and experience God’s grace through the sacraments.” (This Holy Mystery)
Baptism
In Baptism “we are initiated into Christ’s holy church…incorporated into God’s mighty acts of salvation and given new birth through water and the Spirit.” In baptism we reject the power of sin and begin our journey as disciples of Jesus Christ. Through baptism, we are born into a new way of living. Whether an infant or adult, this is just the beginning.
Baptism takes place during public worship of the community we call the church. Persons of any age may be baptized. Infants, children and others unable to take the vows for themselves are presented by parents and/or sponsors. Later those young people make their personal profession of faith in the service called confirmation.
Holy Communion
Holy Communion is an act through which our connection with God, each other and our life of ministry in the world is nourished and strengthened. It is a profound act of remembrance that recalls the last supper Jesus had with his disciples.
In the United Methodist communion liturgy, we pray seeking the pouring out of the Holy Spirit on the gifts of bread and juice so that we will be sustained and strengthened to live as Christians in the world. We remember the saving work God has done through Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection. We also celebrate God’s work of making us one with Christ and uniting us in ministry to all the world.
The United Methodist Church practices open table communion. This means all are welcome with no barriers to community with Jesus Christ and with others.
At Kalamazoo First United Methodist Church, communion is served on the first Sunday of each month, as well as on Christmas Eve, Holy Thursday, and other special days.