Dear Friends,
There are three important questions that a Christian community (congregation) should continually ask to remain dedicated to its mission of making Jesus Christ known and God’s presence recognized in the world. First, why do people need Jesus? Second, why do people need the church? Third, why do people need this particular church (or denomination)? I offer these questions as a place to begin teaching, discussing and meditating upon the importance of First UMC – Mt. Sterling and the movement of Methodism.
As we ask these questions, it is good to know about our roots as the people called Methodist. During the month of October, we will be noticing some highlights of John Wesley’s faith journey, how his faith journey shaped a spiritual revival and what type of holiness revival we can be part of today.
“Society in the 1700’s was polarized. Rationalism had led people to believe they no longer needed God. The rich struggled with materialism and the poor with lack of necessities. Into this world a priest and Oxford professor named John Wesley came to trust in Christ and began preaching a faith that would bring a revival of Christianity throughout the British Isles and across America. Wesley’s message and faith continue to speak to 21st Century Christians – calling for a revival of our hearts and souls so that our lives and our world might be changed. Wesley’s story is our story – it is our heritage, it defines our faith and it challenges us to rediscover our spiritual passion” (Rev. Adam Hamilton).
Peace and Blessings, Rev. Jay Moyers
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