Nexus News- November 12, 2009

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Dear Friends of Nexus Church,

Anniversary, anniversary - the BIG picture
In a separate e-mail you have received an invitation to the Nexus Anniversary celebration on Sunday, Nov 22. Here's the "big" picture.

10:00-Church service with "specials"

• We'll receive new members.
• We hear a special guest preacher from the UCC headquarters in Cleveland.
• Immediately after worship - Anniversary luncheon
• There will be a wonderful multi-media program that includes song, video, and inspiring words by a variety of Nexus folk.  

Nexus will supply the entrée, bread, dessert, and drinks ($5 per person).  You are asked to bring a dish of vegetables, salad, or fruit to share.  We'll have the luncheon in the aerobics room across the hallway from the gym.

2:00(or earlier) -- Adjourn

What you can do...
Make your plans to attend on Nov. 22.
Let Dana Johnson know how many reservations you need for the  Luncheon.  E-mail: dana.johnson@thechristhospital.com
Let Frank Wray know if you can help with setup (at 9:00 a.m.) or take-down (at 2:00 p.m.) Email: almspark@yahoo.com
Let me know if you can help pick up the food on Saturday from City Barbecue on Tylersville Roadand from Costco.   

Bottoms Up!
Our very own Bottoms Up project is collecting diapers and wipes for homeless families in the Interfaith Hospitality Network.  Sizes 4, 5 & 6 are needed.  Just bring them to church on Nov 14 or Nov 22.  Leslie Baum will see that they get to the homeless families

Sunday Nov 15: What's Ahead?
Our focus this Sunday is "What's Ahead?"  As ordinary folk, we often want to know what's coming.  As people of faith, we may also ask God when will all the promises of a new world actually come to pass.

Just like the disciples two thousand years ago, we may ask, "Tell us, when will this be, and what will be the sign that all these things are about to be accomplished?'"  (Mark 13:4)

This Sunday we'll explore what is REALLY ahead and how we should live here and now.

The Nexus Singers and Band will inspire us with music.  Krista Bramlage will lead the children.  Kim Martin and Corinne Cross will set up our worship space, make announcements, and read Scripture.

Serve, learn, and plan

• Nov 14 and 21- Homosexuality and the Bible - at Miami University, 10:30-12:30, at the Campus Ministry Center, 16 S. Campus Avenuein Oxford, OH
• Nov 15- New Member Classes - immediately after worship
• Nov 22 - Nexus Anniversary Celebration- a special luncheon celebration immediately after worship.
• Nov 26 -- Thanksgiving Day Luncheon, 11:00 a.m.- 1:00 p.m.- Nexus volunteers provide hospitality and music for needy persons in downtown Hamilton. If you are available, please let me know.
• Nov 29, Dec 6, 13, 20- special events to observe the Sundays of Advent.
• Dec 5 - Annual Congregational Meeting after worship and the potluck lunch
• Dec 14 - Governing Council meeting at 7 pm
• Dec 18 and 19 - Nexus volunteers help homeless families in the Interfaith Hospitality Network in Lebanon.
• Dec 24th- 5:00 p.m.  - a beautiful Candlelight Christmas Eve service in the historic sanctuary of First St Johns UCC in downtown Hamilton.

Summer 2010 Trip to Kenya
United Church of Christ churches in southwest Ohio and Northern Kentucky are planning an adult trip to Rubate Collegein Chuka, Kenya, for late June - early July 2010.

The trip is intended for educators and people in the health professions who are interested in learning more about their corresponding areas of interest in the Rubate area.

The trip will last approximately two weeks and the cost will be $3,000 to $3,500 depending on the price of airline tickets. Specific dates have not yet been determined. An application form may be requested from Karen Specter at kspecter@fuse.net or 5132320652.

For questions, contact Karen or Lolllie Kasulones at lollie@fuse.net.

Blessings for you today and every day,

Mike

Nexus News- November 5, 2009

Image by Rickydavid via Flickr

Dear Friends of Nexus Church,

Do you ever come across something that says EXACTLY what you wish you had the wisdom and the skill to say?

That's what happened to me when I read a statement by Rachel Mikva, the newest faculty member at Chicago Theological Seminary.  It's pleasure to share her thoughts with you:

Simple truths
The most profound truths are not simple ones,
and they often live in dialectical tension with other truths.

Pursuit of justice is essential,
but the equally compelling call to mercy
sometimes (gently) pushes justice aside.

Freedom is a God-given right,
but freedom without commitment and purpose leaves us rootless.

Peace is our perpetual desire,
even as we sometimes decide we must fight.

We live with the breathtaking and terrifying knowledge that
religious passion is a catalyst for great good,
but all too often is wielded as a weapon.

Our ongoing search for meaning

Much of rabbinic literature is devoted to exploring these tensions, trying to sketch the limits of our ideas so they don't become dangerous absolutes.  There is a Divine standard, but it has always been mediated humanly.  The fact that the Hebrew Bible itself did not become Scripture before it had already begun to be multiply interpreted should help us see that it is the ongoing search for meaning that makes for a holy text.

Our community and redemption
We search together in community and help each other reach toward the Divine call. In this journey, there is religious inspiration and guidance. It marks a path to redemption."

Sunday Nov 8: living on the edge
When faith and values come up at work, do you ever feel like the "odd" person out?  Or maybe you're the proverbial "black sheep" in your family?  Then you know what it's like to live on the edge, with values, assumptions, and goals often different from the dominate groups around you.   Using Mark 12:38-44 as our point of departure, our focus Sunday will explore living as a faithful person on the edge.

The Nexus Singers and Band will inspire us with music.  Krista Bramlage will lead the children.  Helen and Karl Ulrich will set up our worship space, make announcements, and read Scripture.

Looking ahead

• Nov 7, 14, and 21- Homosexuality and the Bible - at Miami University, 10:30-12:30, at the Campus Ministry Center, 16 S. Campus Avenuein Oxford, OH
• Nov 8 and 15- New Member Classes - immediately after worship
• Nov 22 - Nexus Anniversary Celebration- a special luncheon celebration immediately after worship.
• Nov 26 -- Thanksgiving Day Luncheon, 11:00 a.m.- 1:00 p.m.- Nexus volunteers provide hospitality and music for needy persons in downtown Hamilton.
• Nov 29, Dec 6, 13, 20- special events to observe the Sundays of Advent.
• Dec 5 - Annual Congregational Meeting after worship and the potluck lunch
• Dec 14 - Governing Council meeting at 7 pm
• Dec 18 and 19 - Nexus volunteers help homeless families in the Interfaith Hospitality Network in Lebanon.
• Dec 24th- 5:00 p.m.  - a beautiful Candlelight Christmas Eve service in the historic sanctuary of First St Johns UCC in downtown Hamilton.

A closing reminder

As the poet Lala Winkley teaches us to pray,
we are yours, God,
endowed with your power
to make our world whole.

Blessings for you today and every day,

Mike

Nexus News 10/17/09

Image by Martin Beek via Flickr

Dear Friends of Nexus Church,

It's a wonderfully active time at Nexus Church.  To help you plan ahead, below is first a summary of upcoming events.  Details follow.

• Sunday, Oct 18-- What must I do?  How do we live together in a new way, here and now?  What about respectability and wealth?  Our starting point will be the story of the "rich young ruler" and Jesus (Mark 10:17-31)
• Sunday, Oct 18  -- Last day to make a special donation to Neighbors in Need.
• Tuesday, Oct 20- Nexus Governing Council meets at Panera's Restaurant in West Chester.  If you have a topic for the Council, please see Karl Ulrich.
• Wednesday, Oct 21at 7:30 p.m.- The Islam-Christian dialogue series continues at St John Catholic Church in West Chester.   This week's topic is extremism and fundamentalism in Islam and Christianity.  Anyone is welcome to drop in.
• Wednesday, Oct 28 at 7:30 p.m.  The Islamic-Christian dialogue series concludes at the Islamic Center of Greater Cincinnati, near I75 and Tylersville Road
• Nov 1, 8, and 15- New Member Class-- noon- 1:30 p.m.
• Nov 7, 14, and 21- Homosexuality and the Bible- I will teach a 3-part workshop at the Campus Ministry Center at Miami University in Oxford. 
• Nov 22 -- Anniversary Celebration- Sunday afternoon Nov 22 we'll have a special celebration of the third anniversary of Nexus and the first anniversary of my ministry with you. 
• Nov 26 -- Thanksgiving Day, 11:00 a.m.- 1:00 p.m.- Nexus folk are invited to help out with a Community Thanksgiving Luncheon at First St John's UCC in downtown Hamilton.
• Nov 29, Dec 6, 13, 20- We'll have special events to observe the Sundays of Advent
• Dec 24th- around 6:00 p.m.  - We'll have a beautiful Candlelight Christmas Eve service in the historic sanctuary of First St Johns UCC in downtown Hamilton.
  

More info
Neighbors in Need helps make another world possible. Neighbors in Need isa special mission offering of the United Church of Christ.  It supports ministries of justice and compassion throughout the United States.  100% of your donation goes directly to help others.

To be sure it's properly credited, please place your offering in the special envelopes available on the welcome table. This Sunday Oct 18 is your last chance make a special donation

New Member Class
The New Member Class will be held after church at the Y on Nov 1, 8, and 15 from noonuntil 1:30 p.m.

Anyone considering membership is encouraged to participate in the three-week series.  We'll have a light lunch and friendly conversation. Our focus is how membership in Nexus might (or might not) be helpful to you.  Childcare can be arranged.

To "reserve" your spot, please let me know.  If you decide to join Nexus Church, new members will be received on Sunday, Nov 22.

Homosexuality and the Bible
The first three Saturday mornings in November I will facilitate a 3-part workshop on Homosexuality and the Bible.  The workshop is a close examination of the passages in the Bible that have traditionally been sued to "clobber" gay people.  In addition, we will examine how the Bible presents Ruth & Naomi and David & Jonathan.

Sponsored by the Campus Ministry Centerat Miami University in Oxford, the workshop will provide an opportunity for students to explore what progressive scholars are saying about the Bible.  Tentatively, it's scheduled from 10:30 a.m.to 12:30 p.m.

Nexus folk in Oxford are now beginning to plan the publicity and hospitality for the workshop.  If you'd like to help out, please contact Judy and Warren Waldron, Buffy Stohl, or Ed Shriver.

Celebrate our 3 years of worship at Nexus Church
Is your calendar marked for a special celebration Sunday afternoon, Nov 22?  We'll have special guests from regional and national ministries of the United Church of Christ.  How would YOU like to celebrate? If you have ideas or are interested in helping plan this, please let Frank Wray know.

Spend part of your Thanksgiving helping others
On Thanksgiving Day Nov 26 at 11:00 a.m.Nexus folk are invited to help out with a Community Thanksgiving Luncheon at First St John's UCC in downtown Hamilton.  The church doors are open to all the people in downtown Hamiltonwho may not have other possibilities for Thanksgiving.

You can be as active or "low-key" as you like. One of our roles is to welcome folks into the dining room and have conversation with them.  Another role is to provide background music for the luncheon.

Worship Comes from the Congregation: We Want You!
Our worship services at Nexus are enhanced by the many gifts that members and friends bring. Do you play a musical instrument, act, read, write, dance, arrange flowers, or prepare an altar? Are there other skills and talents that could be woven into our services to enrich the worship experience?

Beginning with our Advent services, we would like to find ways to incorporate your gifts into worship. See the themes below and then consider ways to meaningfully weave your talents into these sacred services.

November 29 .................... First Sunday of Advent: Hope
December 6 ...................... Second Sunday of Advent: Peace
December 13 .................... Third Sunday of Advent: Joy
December 20 .................... Fourth Sunday of Advent: Love

To offer your gift, please contact Suzi Jarman or Janet Crawford.

Candlelight, readings, and music on Christmas Eve
There's no better way to celebrate Christmas than to spend part of your Christmas Eve at the special service Nexus Church and First StJohn's UCC will hold.

This is an especially good opportunity to invite family and friends who might not normally be able to attend Nexus on Sunday mornings.

The family-friendly service will begin (tentatively) at 6:00 p.m.in First St John's beautiful sanctuary in downtown Hamilton.  We'll have an eclectic mix of old favorites and contemporary music.

Planning is just getting started.  If you have ideas or special requests, please let me know.

Blessings for you today and every day,

Mike

What Do You Want Me To Do For You?- Nexus News 10/09/09

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Dear Friends of Nexus Church,

Looking ahead
Want to learn more about Nexus Church?
The New Member Class will be held after church at the Y on Nov 1, 8, and 15 from noon until 1:30 p.m.

In the three-week series, anyone considering membership is invited to join with me and other special guests. We'll have a light lunch and friendly conversation. Childcare can be arranged.  To "reserve" your spot, please let me know.  If you decide to join Nexus Church, new members will be received on Sunday, Nov 22.

Celebrate our 3 years of service
Is your calendar marked for a special celebration Sunday afternoon, Nov 22?  We'll have special guests from regional and national ministries of the United Church of Christ.  If you're interested in helping plan this, please let me know.

Spend part of your Thanksgiving helping others
On Thanksgiving Day Nov 26 at 11:00 a.m. Nexus folk are invited to help out with a Community Thanksgiving Luncheon at First St John's UCC in downtown Hamilton.  The church doors are open to any and all of the people in downtown Hamilton who may not have other possibilities for Thanksgiving.

You can be as active or "low-key" as you like. One of our roles is to welcome folks into the dining room and have conversation with them.  Another role is to provide background music for the luncheon.

The coming week at Nexus
Sunday, Oct 11:  What do you want me to do for you?
Our focus this Sunday is about living with power and greatness.  In Mark's gospel (10:35-45) James and John ask Jesus if they could sit at his right and left hand. But Jesus will have none of this!  He teaches a new kind of greatness and power -- the power of being a servant to others.

It's a powerful teaching that goes right to the heart of how we today might live. I'll suggest that the first step is to ask a simple question, "What do you want me to do for you?"

The Nexus Band and Singers will inspire us with music.  We'll share our joys and concern in prayer.  Katie Kool will lead the children's program.  Vince Benabese will prepare the projected material.  Kim Martin and Corinne Cross will set up the worship space, make announcements, and read scriptures.  And --in the spirit of continuous improvement -- Reg Olson will help the congregation do a very quick assessment of the service.

Neighbors in Need helps make another world possible.
Continuing this Sunday Oct 11, you are invited to make a special donation to Neighbors in Need.

This is a special mission offering of the United Church of Christ that supports ministries of justice and compassion throughout the United States.

Giving to Neighbors in Need is an excellent opportunity for us to join with other UCC churches across the country and make another world possible.  To be sure it's properly credited, please place your offering in the special envelopes available on the welcome table.

Wednesday, Oct 14: Learn more about Islam
You are invited to join with Catholics and Muslims at St John the Evangelist Church in West Chester for a dialogue series on Islam and Christianity.  Each Wednesday night is independent of the others, so you can come to any session.

Blessings for you today and every day,

Mike

Nexus News- 09/29/09

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Wednesday, Sept 30: Learn more about Islam
Nexus folk are invited to join with Catholics and Muslims at St Johnthe Evangelist Church in West Chester for a dialogue series on Islam and Christianity.

It begins Wednesday, Sept 30, with an Introduction to Islam from 7:30to 9:00 p.m.  The series continues on Wednesdays in October when participants will meet in small groups, Christian and Muslims together, to share their experience and faith on a variety of topics. 

St John the Evangelist Church is on Cincinnati-Dayton Road just north of West Chester Road.  The meetings will take place in the Pavilion, a older one-story building located near the old sanctuary.  The entrance is directly from Cin-Day Road.

Sunday, Oct 4:  Gender, marriage, divorce, and children
Now that the By-Request sermon series is over, our Sunday worship will once again be focused on the standard Scripture readings (called the Lectionary) used by many Protestant and Catholic churches around the world.

This Sunday in Mark 10:2-16 Jesus takes on a host of thorny topics.  What starts off with a “simple” question about interpreting religious law becomes a challenging discussion about gender, marriage, divorce, and children.

The Nexus Singers and Band will inspire us with music. We'll share in prayer our joys and concerns.

Our worship will close with a brief observance of World Communion Sunday and then adjourn for our monthly first-Sunday potluck lunch.  Stay tuned for more news about that.

Neighbors in Need helps make another world possible.
Starting this Sunday, you are invited to make a special contribution to Neighbors in Need.

This is a special mission offering of the United Church of Christ that supports ministries of justice and compassion throughout the United States.

Two-thirds of the offering supports a variety of justice initiatives on issues such as the federal budget, voting rights, immigration, health care, hate crimes, civil liberties, and environmental justice.
One-third of the offering supports the UCC established churches with the Lakota, Dakota, Nakota, Mandan, Hidatsa, Arickara, and Hocak in North and South Dakota, Wisconsin, and northern Nebraska..

Giving to Neighbors in Need is an excellent opportunity for us to join with other UCC churches across the country and make another world possible.  To be sure it’s properly credited, please place your offering in the special envelopes available on the welcome table.

Report: Out in the community with Nexus

1. September was a busy month for Nexus folk to be active and visible in  communities throughout southwest Ohio.
2. In Oxford, Sept 10:  Judy and Warren Waldron invited Mike Underhilland Ed Shriver to join them for a special Ramadan dinner with Muslim students at the Campus Ministry at Miami University.  After the wonderful buffet meal, Christian, Muslim, and Jewish students talked about the ideas of fasting in each of their religions.
3. In West Chester, Sept 13: Nexus had its own table at the 6thAnnual Ramadan Iftar Dinner held at the Islamic Center of Greater Cincinnati near I75 and Tylersville Road.  Nexus folk included Sandi Lerman; Ty, Brian, Kayla, and Shayna Smith; Vince Benabese; and Mike Underhill.  We were joined in our table discussion by Jamil Shehzadj and other members of the Islamic Center.
4. In Lebanon, Sept 18 and 19:  It was a wonderfully hectic time as a team of Nexus volunteers fed, provided activities, and took care of three homeless mothers and their very active eight children.  Nexus folk included Helen Ulrich; Todd, Alice, Tyler, and Caitlin Henry; Leslie Baum; Janet Crawford; Vince Benabese and Mike Underhill.
5. In Cincinnati, Sept 26:The rains held off long enough for the Nexus team to complete the beautiful 5-mile walk to end AIDS.  Our virtual team (some weren’t able to walk because of illness and work) included Danna Johnson, Kay Martin, Corinne Cross, DJ and Marion Beauford Martin, Ty Smith, Vince Benabese, and Mike Underhill.
6. In Centerville, Sept 26:  Six Nexus members and friends joined the sold-out audience for the Jason and deMarco concert at Cross Creek Community Church.  While the music was great, Cross Creek Church really showed how a full-fledged justice ministry can attract support from young, middle-aged, and older folk.
7. In Butler County, Sept 28:  Lisa Schare, chair of Ohio Catholic Democrats of America, took questions from Barbara and Reg Olson and Mike Underhill about how to organize progressive people of faith.

Please let me know about other activities that I missed.  Nexus is not (yet) a numerically large presence in Southwest Ohio but we certainly already are a hopeful witness for equality, fair treatment, tolerance, and deep Christian faith in Southwest Ohio.

I look forward to seeing you Sunday!

Blessings for you today and every day,

Mike

Spiritual Fruits- Not Religious Nuts

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Dear Friends of Nexus Church,

Is It True? God Wants Spiritual Fruit, not Religious Nuts 
The By-Request sermon series concludes this Sunday Sept 27 with an examination of Religion and Spirituality.   Using Matthew 9:10-13 as our starting point, we’ll see that the current issue of Religion and Spirituality has deep roots and a most “respectable” history in Christian thought. 

In worship Sunday we will be inspired by the Nexus band and singers. We'll share our joys and our concerns in prayer.  Pam Benjamin and Eric Middlebrook will set up our worship space, make announcements, and read scripture.

Have a good meal (and raise money for Nexus)
If you eat at the Applebee’s Restaurant on Princeton Road this Sunday and give them the special flyer, they will donate 10% of your bill to Nexus Church.  Copies of the flyer will be available at church.

You don’t have to be a member of Nexus; just give them the flyer.  So invite your friends, family, sports team, etc!

Learn more about Islam
Nexus folk are invited to join with Catholics at St John the Evangelist Church in West Chester for a dialogue series on Islam and Christianity.  It begins Wednesday, Sept 30, with an Introduction to Islam, at 7:30 p.m.  .

Urgent action needed against murders of church leaders in Colombia
As part of the United Church of Christ, we support missionary work around the world.  Our UCC missionaries always work in partnership with local churches and are on the leading edge in standing up for justice and peace.

I encourage you to consider a request received this week from
Rev. Michael Joseph. Global Ministries Missionary in Bogotá, Colombia:

So far in 2009 six Protestant church leaders from southern Córdoba have been murdered by paramilitary armed groups. Several attempted murders and dozens of death threats have caused the forced displacement of hundreds of people. Some churches have been literally caught in the crossfire. In one town six pastors were threatened to be killed if they failed to make extortion payments. A significant number of the victims were targeted for their community leadership in land-rights struggles and for opposing the violence affecting their communities.

Please read more and take action: www.colombiacalling.blogspot.com

Blessings for you today and every day,

Mike


Mike Underhill
Pastor

Nexus Fundraiser- September 27th

Image by Getty Images via Daylife

After the service this coming Sunday (September 27th) some of will go out to lunch at Applebee's.  Applebee's will donate 10% of our total bill back to Nexus church.  In fact, all day long, anyone eating at Applebee's and presenting the attached flyer will help Nexus out because Applebee's will donate 10% of the total back to Nexus.  If you have friends, family, clubs or any other group or individual you can invite, please do.  You do not have to eat with our group to earn the credit for Nexus.

You MUST present the flyer for Nexus to get credit.  Please print it out and bring it with you.

http://tinyurl.com/ksgdlt

Nexus News- September 18, 2009

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Dear Friends of Nexus Church,

How many ways will you connect with Nexus Church?  Here are some ideas.

Connect with worship this Sunday
Heaven and Hell - Hope for Here and Now
When you voted on topics on which you'd like me to preach, "Heaven and Hell" was the second highest vote getter.  And that's our focus this coming Sunday, Sept 20.

I will preach Sunday morning on "Heaven and Hell - Hope for Here and Now."  We'll use John 5:21-29 as our starting point to consider your questions:  Is there a bad place (hell)?  Where did the idea of "hell" come from and how has it changed over time?  What is heaven like?  What about life after death?

In worship Sunday we will be inspired by the Nexus band and singers.  We'll share our joys and our concerns in prayer.  Corinne Cross and Kim Martin will set up our worship space, make announcements, and read scripture.

Connect with the community next Saturday, Sept 26
1. A river walk to help stop AIDS
Saturday Morning, Sept 26: The 20th Annual Walk to STOP AIDS! at Sawyer Point.  It's a 5-mile walk along the Ohio and Kentucky sides of the Ohio River.  For questions, ask Dana Johnson (513-461-3107). To join Team Nexus:
http://stopaids.kintera.org/faf/search/searchTeamPart.asp?ievent=320065&lis=1&kntae320065=2193256EF66C49D898491A77E44F11F6&supId=0&team=3504069&cj=Y

2. A Christian music concert
Saturday Evening, Sept 26: Recording artists Jason and deMarco are in concert at 8:00 p.m. at CrossCreekCommunityChurch on Miamisburg-Centerville Road, about 35 minutes north of Nexus.

The duo performed as part of "RiverCity Saturday" at the UCC General Synod in Grand Rapids, Michigan, in late June of this year.  The Dallas Voice says, "Jason & deMarco have developed a beautiful and highly unusual duet technique."  DNA Magazine declares, "The duo aims to mix a spiritual message with a strong mainstream aesthetic and their symbiotic approach is definitely working.

Tickets are $20 per person.  To reserve a ticket, please contact Vince Benabese (vbenabese@gmail.com) no later than this Sunday, .Sept 20.

Connect with those of other faiths

• Wish your Jewish friends Happy New Year
• Tonight, Friday the 18th, is the beginning of Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year.  The Yom Kippur observance begins Sunday evening, Sept 27.
• Learn more about Islam
• Nexus folk are invited to join with Catholics at St John the Evangelist Church in West Chester for a dialogue series on Islam and Christianity.  It begins Wednesday, Sept 30, with an Introduction to Islam, at 7:30 p.m.  See Sandi Lerman for more details.

Blessings for you today and every day,

Mike

Christianity and World Religions

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Dear Friends of Nexus Church,

This week I invite you to be part of the wondrous ways that God is Still Speaking through Nexus in the world, Nexus in the community, and Nexus in our country.

Nexus in the world
Christianity and World Religions
When you voted on topics on which you'd like me to preach, Christianity and World Religions was the top vote getter.  And that's our focus this coming Sunday, Sept 13.

I will preach Sunday morning on "Commitment without Superiority." How do we acknowledge the legitimacy of other paths to God but understand Jesus' words "no one comes to the Father but by me"?  How should Christians respond to people of other faiths?  Should we try to convert them? We'll begin with a close look at John 14:1-11.

In worship Sunday we also welcome back Chip Bramlage and the Nexus band and singers.  We'll share our joys and our concerns in prayer.  Krista Bramlage will lead the children in New Explorers.  Leslie Baum and others will read scripture. Helen and Karl Ulrich will set up our worship space and make announcements.

And then in the evening many of us will go to the 6th Annual Ramadan Iftar Dinner at the Islamic Center near I75 and Tylersville road. Thanks to Sandi Lerman for promoting and organizing our participation.

Nexus out in the community
1. A meal with homeless families

Friday evening and Saturday morning, Sept 18-19: As part of the Inter-faith Hospitality Network in Lebanon, Nexus folk prepare food and activities for homeless families. See Helen Ulrich for details.

2. A river walk to help stop AIDS

Saturday Morning, Sept 26: The 20th Annual Walk to STOP AIDS! at Sawyer Point.  It's a 5-mile walk along the Ohio and Kentucky sides of the Ohio River.  See Dana Johnson to join our Nexus team of walkers.

3. A Christian music concert

Saturday Evening, Sept 26: Recording artists Jason and deMarco are in concert at 8:00 p.m. at Cross Creek Community Church on Miamisburg-Centerville Road, about 35 minutes north of Nexus.  Tickets are $20 per person.  For more details, see Vince Benabese.

Nexus in our country
1. God is Still Speaking in ButlerCounty.

Yes, God is Still Speaking in the current debates over health care reform.  That's the message I took last week to one of the events in Butler County where many gathered to understand why reform is needed.  (The picture below was carried in the Hamilton Journal News)

 
2. A petition from 100,000 in UCC churches across the country

The United Church of Christ is continuing its historic support for health care for all persons by encouraging the signing of a petition that will be shared with legislative decision-makers, both Republican and Democrat.

The actual wording of the petition can be found on the link below, but the following points stand out:

• Coverage for all people
• Access regardless of ability to pay
• A full set of comprehensive benefits
• A choice of physicians and other providers
• Elimination of racial and ethnic and other health care disparities
• Waiver of pre-existing condition exclusions without age limits
• A robust public health insurance option.

I encourage you, as an issue of faith, to consider adding your signature to this petition and forwarding it as broadly as possible. I would think that, in the spirit of the Great Physician whose message we carry, universal health care is a critical moral issue.

The UCC is seeking 100 thousand signatures in ten days.  Will you add your voice?

To add your name to the petition, go to
https://secure3.convio.net/ucc/site/Advocacy?cmd=display&page=UserAction&id=443&JServSessionIdr002=h3ux8uvd87.app306b
 
Blessings for you today and every day,
Mike

Nexus News- September 5, 2009

Image by massysugarpants via Flickr

Dear Friends of Nexus Church,

By Request sermon series continues Sept 6
Forgive, forget, and move on - that's the advice of many helpful experts in human behavior.  But is that REALLY what Christian forgiveness is all about?  Do we forget about injustice?  Do we remain defined by the ways other have mis-treated us?  How might we "move on" with our lives?

These are some of the questions on my mind as I prepare for this Sunday's exploration of forgiveness.  You asked me to preach on "forgiveness," but, friends,  it was too big a topic for one sermon.  This Sunday Sept 6 I will conclude the sermon I started last week: Unconditional Forgiveness.

Our focus this Sunday will be on what I consider to be the hardest part of forgiveness:  forgiving others when they mistreat us and asking others to forgive us when we mistreat them.

This Sunday we will be inspired with the acoustic guitar and bass music of Nancy Wheeler and Mike Kiely.  We'll share our joys and our concerns in prayer.  Krista Bramlage will lead the children in New Explorers.  Our service will conclude with Holy Communion, assisted by Janet Crawford. Ty and Brian Smith will set up our worship space and make announcements.

No potluck this month
Because of the wonderful end-of-summer pool party that Kim Martin and Corinne Cross hosted last week, we will NOT have our usual first-Sunday potluck lunch after church this week.

Instead, I've been told that you may expect special muffins and other goodies to go along with your coffee, tea, and water.

Opportunities for service

• Share a meal with our Muslim friends -- Sunday evening, Sept 13 - The 6th Annual Ramadan Iftar Dinnerat the Islamic Center near I75 and Tylersville road.  The evening includes a tour of the mosque, a special program, and a sundown dinner that celebrates the end of daily fasting observed by Muslims during the month of Ramadan.  For more information, see Sandi Lerman.
• Share a meal with homeless families -- Friday evening and Saturday morning, Sept 18-19 - As part of the Inter-faith Hospitality Network in Lebanon, Nexus folk prepare food and activities for homeless families.  See Helen Ulrich for details.
• Talk a river walk to help stop AIDS -- Saturday Morning, Sept 26 - The 20th Annual Walk to STOP AIDS! at Sawyer Point.  It's a 5-mile walk along the Ohio and Kentucky sides of the Ohio River.  See Dana Johnson to join our Nexus team of walkers.

Ty and Brian Smith in the New York Times
In case you missed it, here's a link to last week's article in the New York Times based in large part on interviews with Ty and Brian Smith:
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/08/27/fashion/27SKIN.html?_r=1

The article "Black Hair, Still Tangled in Politics" appeared in the August 28th edition of the international newspaper.  Featured in the Fashion and Style section, the article is a great example of what happens when you connect your faith and your life.

Just call me a nag - have you spoken up about health care?
Here's an easy way to connect your faith and life.  Go to this website and let President Obama know what you want done about health care:
http://www.whitehouse.gov/contact/

It will send an e-mail to the President.

Blessings for you today and every day,

Mike

Related articles by Zemanta

• What Do You Do to Let Go? (chris.pirillo.com)
• Devotional - Forgiveness and Comfort (pastorpaulvbsblog.blogspot.com)

Unconditional Forgiveness

Image by OZinOH via Flickr

Dear Friends of Nexus Church,

By Request sermon series begins Aug 30
Early in the summer you voted on the four sermon topics on which you'd most like me to preach.  With fear and trepidation, I'll begin the series this coming Sunday, Aug. 30.

Our focus Sunday will be "Unconditional Forgiveness, Part 1."  The scripture will be the story of the prodigal son.  We'll explore if it's really true that God welcomes us with open arms whatever we've done and whenever we "return."

This Sunday is the first of a two-part sermon on forgiveness.  The following Sunday September 5 I will reflect on what I consider to be the hardest part of forgiveness:  forgiving others when they mistreat us and asking others to forgive us when we mistreat them.

This Sunday we have a special treat: Nancy Wheeler and her husband Brandon will inspire us with their acoustic guitar music.  We'll share our joys and our concerns in prayer.  Krista Bramlage will lead the children in New Explorers.  Pam Benjamin and Eric Middlebrook will set up our worship space and make announcements.

And don't forget after church
Kim Martin and Corinne Cross are hosting an end-of-summer pool party at their home immediately after church on Aug. 30.

Hop in the pool or stay dry and enjoy yourself in the yard. Have a wonderful meal.  Relax.  Find out what Nexus folk have been up to over the summer.  Make a new friend.

Just bring yourself (and family or friends) and a side dish.  Kim and Corinne are supplying everything else.

Their address: 6407 Sauterne Dr, Liberty Twp., OH 45011.  Questions: 513-863-0705

Opportunities for service

• Sunday evening, Sept 13 - The 6th Annual Ramadan Iftar Dinner at the Islamic Center near I-75 and Tylersville road.  The evening includes a tour of the mosque, a special program, and a sundown dinner that celebrates the end of daily fasting observed by Muslims during the month of Ramadan.  For more information, see Sandi Lerman.
• Saturday Morning, Sept 26 - The 20th Annual Walk to STOP AIDS! at Sawyer Point.  It's a 5-mile walk along the Ohio and Kentucky sides of the Ohio River.  See Dana Johnson to join our Nexus team of walkers.

Corn fields, wheat fields, mountains, and birthday cake
As you can tell, Vince, Xenia, and I are back from our 3,500 trip to Colorado. What a grand trip!

Most importantly, Vince's Mom had a joyous celebration of her 80th year.  His family does not have a tradition of "big" family celebrations, so taking his mom to visit with her 86 year-old sister for two days and then returning to Denver for a surprise party attended by 45 of her friends was a BIG event.

In that setting I was introduced as Mom's son-in-law of 18 years, and that was indeed a blessing, as I know you can appreciate.

This was my first vacation time since I came to Nexus last November.  I know you were well treated on Aug 16 and 23 with two top-notch guest preachers.  Thanks to the Rev. Jan Griesinger and the Rev. Reg Olson for preaching.  Thanks also to the Rev. Barb Hobe for being on call for pastoral emergencies.

Have you spoken up about health care?
At NexusChurch we emphasize that our faith should be connected with our lives.  At the moment there's no more important issue facing our collective life than the questions surrounding health care.

As your pastor I therefore ask: have you made your voice heard about health care?

In recent weeks it seemed to me that some were using the health care issue primarily as a means to "overturn" the results of last November's election.  But I read in today's newspaper that some prominent religious leaders are backing away from a 30-year commitment to adequate health-care for all.  (See, for example,  http://www.nytimes.com/2009/08/28/health/policy/28catholics.html?_r=1&hp )

Isn't it time for progressive religious folk to let our opinions be heard?

Blessings for you today and every day,

Mike

Website Update-We're mobile baby!

Image via CrunchBase

If you've wanted to browser the Nexus from your mobile phone (or if you just didn't have Flash and couldn't view it properly), now you can.  Our site is now completely viewable from a mobile device.  Now you can listen to the sermons (just in case you slept in one Sunday morning or were out enjoying nature) streamed from our website on your iPhone or other mobile device.

Some other new features should be available in the coming months.  But, this is a pretty big one.  A lot of people who you might have steered to the site couldn't view it well on mobile devices.  And, now they can check out a sermon or two while they're on the go.  We don't have true Podcasting yet (should be coming soon). But, as long as you're connected, you can stream the sermons.

Our website is here:  www.nexusucc.org , pass it along.

Old Pride!

Image by Xavier Fargas via Flickr

Dear Friends of Nexus Church,

Corn fields, wheat fields, mountains, and birthday cake
Tomorrow morning Vince and I will pack up the car and head west on I70 across Indiana, Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, and Colorado until we come to Vince's Mom's in Denver.  There we'll help organize a week-long 80th birthday celebration for Mom (shhh - there's a secret party, too).

We're taking a driving vacation so that we can take along our little dog Xena.  It will be leisurely trip, since we stop at about every other rest stop and stretch our legs.  The scenery may not be "exotic" but isn't it a blessing just to be with those you love?

This is my first vacation time since I came to Nexus last November.  You'll see below that you will be treated on Aug 16 and 23 with top-notch guest preachers.  Be sure to come to church, and let me know what you think.

While we are out of town, please call me at the regular church cell number (513-708-7803) if you have any critical need of pastoral care.  I have found that often a telephone conversation can be very helpful.  If immediate face-to-face conversation is needed, I will contact our own the Rev. Barb Hobe to make arrangements to meet with you.

Old Pride: All Shall be Well Enough
This Sunday Aug 16 our guest preacher -- the Rev. Jan Griesinger from Athens, OH -- will reflect on "Old Pride: All Shall be Well."

I know that you will want to hear Jan's reflection.  I first heard her speak at the Ohio Conference of the UCC.  In a very few minutes she caught everyone's attention with her celebration of being "old."

Jan is a co-founder of  the Susan B. Anthony Memorial UnRest Home Womyn's Land Trust where she currently lives. She currently serves as national Co-Director of Old Lesbians Organizing for Change.  Jan is Director Emerita of UCM:  Center for Spiritual Growth and Social Justice at OhioUniversity (1976-2004).

Chip Bramlage and the Nexus Singers and Band will inspire us with music.  We'll share our joys and our concerns in prayer.  Krista Bramlage will give the Children's Message and then lead the children in New Explorers.  Sandi Lerman will teach us new sign language.  Helen and Karl Ulrich will set up our worship space,  make announcements, and read Scripture.

Reg Olson to preach Aug 23rd
What does it mean to have church in a gymnasium?  Come Aug 23rd to hear our very own the Rev. Reg Olson discuss "Surely the Lord is in this Place"

We know Reg as a faithful supporter of Nexus Church who almost always takes a front-row seat along with his wife Barb.   You may not know that Reg is a retired United Methodist clergy person.  He was born and raised in the Evangelical & Reformed Church (which joined with the Congregational Christian Church in 1957 to form the United Church of Christ).

By Request sermon series begins Aug 30
Early in the summer you voted on the four sermon topics on which you'd most like me to preach.  With fear and trepidation, I'll begin the series on Sunday, Aug. 30.  I don't (yet) have a "flashy" title, but the sermon topic will be forgiveness.  Do we "need" forgiveness?  If so, who? What? When? And how?

And don't forget after church on Aug 30
Kim Martin and Corinne Cross are hosting a pool party at their home immediately after church on Aug. 30.

Blessings for you today and every day,

Mike

Nexus News- August 7, 2009

Image by bandita via Flickr

Nine months, one week

If I were pregnant, I'd be awaiting the birth of a child.  If I were in school, I'd be awaiting promotion to a new grade.  As your pastor now for nine months and one week, I'm eager to see where our journey together with God will lead us.

Several of you tell me that you notice God's Spirit actively working in and through Nexus church. I am aware that everyone now connected with Nexus is taking new steps - small steps and big steps.  I see you doing things you never thought you could.  I see you claiming new ministries of service and compassion and hospitality.  I see you letting the word of God challenge you.

I am also aware that many are dealing with situations they had never expected.  As a community, we know about loss - loss of relationships, loss of health, loss of income, loss of certainty.  And as a community, we are beginning to trust each other enough to grieve our losses together.

As a community, we're also learning how to celebrate together.  We are blessing marriages and relationships, welcoming births, blessing homes, and baptizing children and adults.  We're also inviting family and friends to "check out" Nexus Church.

I am truly blessed to be your pastor and friend.  I appreciate your growing willingness to invite me into the joys and concerns of your daily lives.  Vince and I are refreshed by your continuing hospitality.  We thoroughly enjoy living in this corner of Ohio.  Thank you for making it all possible.

Kayaking, fishing, canoeing, and conversation

What a wonderful and relaxing time last Sunday at the Nexus family and friends picnic and outing!  Our group included 15 adults, 5 children, and 2 dogs.  We arrived by car and bicycle.  We ate and ate, talked and talked, and many of us went down the Little Miami River by canoe or kayak. Some fished in the river and others played cards.

Already, I'm getting notes from folks who couldn't make it last Sunday but are saying they will definitely be there "next year."  So I guess we've started another Nexus tradition.

Many helped make the event possible - thank you!  Helen Ulrich and her family deserve special thanks for finding such a good place, making the arrangements, doing publicity, and setting things up.

And mark your calendar for Aug 30
Kim Martin and Corinne Cross are hosting a pool party at their home immediately after church on Aug. 30.

Pop Quiz Update
Last week I asked you a question about the racial and ethnic backgrounds of students in the Lakota School District.  Thanks to one of the faithful readers of this note, I now have the latest available data from the 2007-2008 school year:

• What percentage of students in the LakotaSchool District are students of color?  21%
• What percentage are white or Caucasian? 79%

I shared this information last Saturday morning at a Sacred Conversation about Race which I helped lead with the leadership team for the Southwest Ohio Northern Kentucky Association of UCC churches.  Some in the group, especially those who were born and raised in ButlerCounty, were most surprised to see how much Butler County has changed from their childhood and youth.

The whole conversation was very positive and hopefully will encourage many other sacred conversations about race.  To me, it was a vivid reminder that the sooner we talk about the issues that can be used to divide us, the sooner we will discover the common humanity that unites us.

Enough, Already!
This Sunday August 9 the theme is "Enough Already!"  How might we respond when life give us more than we think we can bear?  Our point of departure will a fascinating story from the life of the ancient prophet Elijah.  You can read the story in 1 Kings 19:3-8.

Chip Bramlage and the Nexus Singers and Band will inspire us with music.  We'll share our joys and our concerns in prayer.  Krista Bramlage will lead the children in New Explorers.  Sandi Lerman will teach us new sign language.  Ty and Brian Smith will set up our worship space and make announcements.

See you Sunday at 10:00 a.m.!

Blessings for you today and every day,

Mike

Nexus News- July 17, 2009

Image by Sonia Kiss via Flickr

Dear Friends of Nexus Church,

Restoration, comfort, and abundance?
In our very busy and challenging lives, we get lots of experience in coping with struggle, scarcity, and fear. Our worship this week invites us to claim a different world -- a world of restoration, comfort, and abundance.

The Scripture and sermon this week will explore perhaps the best known chapter in the entire Bible: Psalm 23.  Can we really have no fear when life puts us in the "darkest valley?"  Is it enough to trust in a Shepherd God?  Would we prefer a conquering God?  a rescuing God?  a punishing God?  Or perhaps we'd rather just get through it all ourselves?

Our point of departure will be Jesus' diagnosis (Mark 6:34) that the people of his time were "sheep without a shepherd."

We'll have the usual strong music of our Nexus Band and Nexus Singers and time to share our joys and our concerns in prayer.  Krista Bramlage will lead the children in New Explorers.  Kim Martin and Corinne Cross will set up our worship space, make announcements, and read Scripture.

I hope to see you Sunday at 10:00 a.m.!

Christmas in July
You now have an opportunity to support a Christmas in July party for homeless children.  Every child at the party will receive a new outfit for the first day of school, a full back-pack, a hair cut, new shoes, plus special surprises.

The Interfaith Hospitality Network estimates that 75 children will attend this year's party in Lebanon, OH.  All the children were in the shelter sometime during the past twelve months.

At Nexus we will collect your donations and then send them all to the Interfaith Hospitality Network which we support throughout the year. Please use the special "Spread the Love" envelopes at the welcome table and place them in the basket.

Health care is a moral issue
Health care is not just about dollars and cents, but is a profound moral issue of life and death. It is fundamentally about whether we are a community that values the life of each person- poor, rich, or middle-class.

I encourage you to play a role in the current health-care reform debate.  You can be part of creating a better system for all in our community.

Here's one resource that you may find helpful.  It's produced in part by Sojourners, a long respected organizational leader in many issues of quality and fairness.
http://www.sojo.net/action/alerts/health_care_toolkit_2-page.pdf

If you have other resources that would be helpful, please let me know and I'll be glad to help distribute them.


Blessings to you today and every day,
Mike

Nexus News- July 3, 2009

Dear Friends of Nexus Church,

Happy Fourth of July!
The meetings in Grand Rapids last week were wonderful but Vince and I are delighted to be back home in Ohio to celebrate our first Fourth of July here.  Somewhere tonight we look forward to a grand fireworks spectacular.

And then on Sunday, of course, we look forward to being with you at the East Butler County YMCA.

In the midst of all the red, white, and blue celebrations of a busy weekend, we will have a wonderful time of worship together this Sunday July 5.

• Our focus will be practical and down-to-earth, as we explore the all too familiar experience of rejection. Using the story of Jesus' last visit to his hometown Nazareth, I will share ideas about "Rejecting Rejection." Actually, this Sunday will be the first part of a two-part sermon series.  The topic of rejection was just too big to "squeeze" into one sermon.
• In addition to the usual strong music of our Nexus Band and Nexus Singers, this Sunday we will enjoy a brand-new song, "Hope in You," written and composed by our own Chip Bramlage and Nancy Wheeler.
• Our worship will end with the quiet and peace of Communion.

By Request -- It's time to vote!
All the nominations are in and voting has been extended for one more Sunday.  Altogether, you submitted 15 topics on which you'd like me to preach later in the summer:

• What's the difference between being spiritual and being religious?  Do they correlate with each other?
• What is heaven like?  What about life after death?
• Forgiveness
• Opening one's heart to the truth
• How should Christians respond to people of other faiths? Should we try to convert them?
• Did God create everything? What do the creation stories mean to us in the 21st century?
• Why did they decide to nail Jesus on the cross?  What does the cross represent?
• Is there a "bad place" (hell)? Where did the idea of "hell" come from and how has it changed over the years?
• What are the issues between Muslims and Christians?
• Is God man, woman, or both?
• Do Angels exist?
• Is there a Devil?  What about evil?
• Where did God come from?
• Book of Revelation - e.g., was the guy who wrote it really "nuts"?
• How do we acknowledge the legitimacy of other paths to God but understand Jesus' words "no one comes to the Father but by me"?

Ballots will be available at church this Sunday.  Just check your 4 favorite topics and leave you ballot in the basket on the welcome table.

Planning your summer calendar

• A baby shower for Krista Bramlage will be held Sunday, July 12.  See Ty Smith for details.
• We will not have a potluck lunch this Sunday July 5.  Instead, Ty Smith and Helen Ulrich are planning a cook-out after church in August.  Stay tuned for details.

Many thanks!
If you were at church last Sunday June 28th, you were in for a treat.  While I was out of town attending national church meetings, many folks stepped up to make worship possible.

Nexus had the honor of welcoming Rev. Larry Rezash from Centerville as our guest preacher. Reg Olson held everything together as our worship leader.  Nancy Wheeler and Mike Kiely once again led the music.  Helen Ulrich and Mark Smith took care of the set-up, and Jeff Davis read Scripture.

Nexus Church is indeed blessed to have so many talented and spirited folk!

Blessings to you today and every day,

Mike

Nexus News- June 18, 2009

Image by BrianWestChest via Flickr

Dear Friends of Nexus Church,

Do you have the "Courage to Sleep?"
(No, I am not encouraging you to "sleep in" this Sunday!)

Our focus this Sunday June 21st is what should we do when life turns "nasty" and threatens to overwhelm us. How can we move from panic to faith?  What actions demonstrate our faith?  Based on Mark's account of Jesus' sleeping in a violent storm (Mark 4:35-41), we'll explore "The courage to sleep."

Our music this week will be wonderfully led by Nancy Wheeler and Mike Kiely.

Also, this Sunday we'll lift up Men of Faith.  During the open mic time folks will be invited to share a few words about the men who've been important in their faith development.

By Request-ONE more week for your nominations
Later this summer I will preach a series of sermons on the topics which you have selected.  Here are just a few of the topics which have already been suggested:

• Forgiveness
• Opening one's heart to the truth
• How should Christians respond to people of other faiths?
• Hell
• Did God create everything?

Here's how it will work.  You nominate the topics on which you'd like me to preach.  I will then compile the nominations into a ballot.  On June 28 (while I'm out of town attending the UCC General Synod) everyone will vote.  In late July and August I will then do my best to preach on the four topics that got the most votes.

History is made in Ohio
Yesterday, House Bill 176, the Equal Housing and Employment Act, passed out of State Government Committee in the Ohio House of Representatives.  The committee vote marks the first time in Ohio's history that a vote has occurred on legislation protecting the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community in Ohio in either chamber of the General Assembly. The bill now moves to consideration by the entire House of Representatives.

As your pastor, I lobbied in support of this bill in Columbus with all the ButlerCounty legislators.  It's a matter of justice in basic rights for housing and employment.  Without this bill, for example, a company in Ohio can legally fire someone simply because they are lesbian or gay.

More opportunities for service and community
PB&J food drive - an ongoing drive to collect basic food supplies for summer-time sandwiches.  Contact Leslie Baum for details.
Many thanks to Mark Smith for coordinating and leading our 4-session discussion of The Shack.  Over a dozen Nexus folk participated in one or more of the discussions.  Do you have a book you'd like to discuss?  Just let Mark know.

Bible is the "ultimate immigration handbook"
World Council of Churches general secretary Rev. Dr Samuel Kobia this week said the Bible was the "ultimate immigration handbook".

Kobia asked Christians to apply the parable of the "good Samaritan" to the current context in which they live.

"It speaks to us in this week after virulently anti-immigrant parties made unprecedented gains in European elections", he said. "This parable of Jesus calls us again to consider, 'Who is my neighbour' and how are we to live out that relationship? Christ calls us to be neighbours of immigrants, of oppressed minorities within our own nations, of all who are in need of a neighbour."

Blessings to you today and every day,
Mike

Nexus News- June 12, 2009

Image by ~Asturnut~ via Flickr

Dear Friends of Nexus Church,

The "greatest" or an invasive weed?

• This Sunday June 14th we'll take a fresh look at Jesus' parable of the mustard seed (Mark 4:26-34).  What does this simple story teach us about the realm of God?  What might the mustard bush teach us about living and working together here and now?  Hint: Is the mustard bush the greatest of bushes or an invasive weed?
  
  
• As usual, many hands make our worship possible. Chip Bramlage and the wonderful Nexus singers and band will lead us in music; Brian and Ty Smith  will do set-up, make announcements, and read Scripture; Sandi Lerman will continue our education in ASL; Krista Bramlage will lead the children; and Vince Benabese will prepare the visuals.
  
  
• Plus, after worship Mark Smith will lead the discussion of Chapters 13-17 of The Shack.  All are welcome to join in the discussion, whether or not you've been able to attend previous discussions. 

By Request-YOUR chance to pick the topics for my sermons
Later this summer I will preach a series of sermons on the topics which you have selected.  Here are just some of the topics which have already been suggested:

• Should we try to convert people of other faiths to Christianity?
• Why did they decide to nail Jesus on the cross?
• Did God create everything?
• Is there a "bad place" (hell)?
• What are the issues between Muslims and Christians?

Here's how it will work.  You nominate any topic on which you'd like me to preach.  Maybe your topic is an issue, an ethical or political question, a particular part of Scripture, a particular Christian doctrine, or anything else on your mind.  I will then compile the nominations into a ballot.  On June 28 (while I'm out of town attending the UCC General Synod) everyone will vote.  In late July and August I will then do my best to preach on the four topics that got the most votes.

Bring your ideas this Sunday!

More opportunities for service and community

• PB&J food drive - an ongoing drive to collect basic food supplies for summer-time sandwiches.  Contact Leslie Baum for details
• Men of Faith - our special Nexus' recognition of men who've been important in our faith development will take place on June 21st.

Let your voice be heard
"The use of torture by the United States in recent years, and our refusal to renounce its use, has diminished us as a nation not only in the eyes of our own citizens, but in the eyes of the world... " - that's the opinion of the Rev. John Thomas, General Minister of the UCC.  To learn more about this critical issue, see http://www.ucc.org/justice/uccagainsttorture/urge-the-president-to-create.html?autologin=true

Let the White House hear YOUR voice about faith and politics
In this time of such great need, it's more important than ever to let elected officials know how your faith and values connect.  It's especially easy to send an e-mail to the White House. This web-site makes it easy: http://www.whitehouse.gov/CONTACT/


Blessings to you today and every day,

Mike

Nexus New-s June 5, 2009

Image by Terra Lynne via Flickr

Dear Friends of NexusChurch,

"God Throws a Curveball"-- this Sunday, June 7 at 10:00 a.m.

No, please don't come expecting a discussion of baseball.  Instead, we'll use the familiar story of Nicodemus and Jesus (John 3:1-17) as a starting point to think about one of the oldest Christian teachings, the Trinity. Is this an "antiquated" doctrine of the 4th century?  Is it something that is truly relevant to our lives in southwest Ohio in 2009?

As usual, many hands make our worship possible. Chip Bramlage and the singers and band will lead us in music; Pam Benjamin and Eric Middlebrook will set-up, make announcements, and read Scripture; Sandi Lerman will continue our education in ASL; Krista Bramlage will lead the children; Suzi Jarman will assist with communion; Andy Closson will prepare the print materials; and Vince Benabese will prepare the visuals. Plus, after worship Helen Ulrich is coordinating our monthly potluck lunch.  See you Sunday!

By Request-YOUR chance to pick the topics for my sermons
Later this summer I will preach a series of sermons on the topics which you  select.

Here's how it will work.  Starting this Sunday you may nominate the topics on which you'd like me to preach.  Maybe your topic is an issue.  Or maybe it's an ethical or political question. Or maybe it's a particular part of Scripture or a particular Christian doctrine.  I will then compile the nominations into a ballot.  On June 28 (while I'm out of town attending the UCC General Synod) everyone will vote.  In late July and August I will then do my best to preach on the four topics that got the most votes.

More opportunities for service and community

• Nexus Governing Council - Monday night, June 8, 7:00 p.m. at the Union Centre Panera Restaurant.  See Karl Ulrich for details.
• PB&J food drive - an ongoing drive to collect basic food supplies for summer-time sandwiches.  Contact Leslie Baum for details
• Chapters 13-17 of The Shack - discussion at the Y after church Sunday, June 14.  See Mark Smith for details.
• Men of Faith - our special Nexus' recognition of men who've been important in our faith development will take place on June 21st.

In this time of challenge and change ...

A Prayer for Southwest Ohio

We did not choose to be created in your image, God.
We did not choose to be related to the rest of your creation.
And yet, we are a part of one another.

Despite all of the things --
real or imagined,
understood or denied,
recognized or ignored --
that manage to set us apart from one another, 
stir us to recognize and celebrate our kinship to one another,
and to you, our Source. 

God of justice and hope,
give us wisdom and courage
to demand policies which meet the real needs
of all in our large community of southwest Ohio.

God of many names,
remind us daily that we all belong to you.
Let generosity, peace, and a forgiving spirit abound in all we do.

Amen.

Blessings to you today and every day,

Mike

Women Of Faith Nexus News- May 8, 2009

Image via Wikipedia

Dear Friends of Nexus Church,

It's a thought provoking celebration this Sunday!

In recognition of Mother's Day, we will focus on Women of Faith.
My sermon -- "No Matter What" -- will be based on the much loved Biblical story of Ruth and Naomi.
During the open mic time, you will have an opportunity to name any woman who has been important to your faith.  This may be a woman of your family -- mother, grandmother, aunt, etc. -- or a Biblical woman or a woman from history or a woman from literature or cinema or a woman from current events.

Would you be willing to talk on the phone for 15 minutes?
There's a new opportunity for a telephone ministry.  A retired woman is very interested in Nexus Church but is not able to attend worship services at the moment.  She would, though, love to have someone call her once a week or so to discuss what's going on in the church and in the community.  If you might be interested, just let me know.

There wasn't a dry eye in the gym last Sunday. Nexus Church was indeed blessed to hear Kris Royer Henninger share her reflections on "Blood is the Least of It: What Makes a Family."  Also distributed last week was a short brochure (attached) about the 40 different types of families which are mentioned in the Bible.

There's a lot yet to come in May.

• Monday, May 11 - Nexus Governing Council meets at the Union Center Panera at 7:00 p.m.  See Karl Ulrich for details.
• Sunday, May 17 - Monthly song circle at 1:30.  See Vince Benabese for details.
• Friday, May 22 - Our hosting of homeless families through the Interfaith Hospitality Network in Lebanon.  See Helen Ulrich to participate.
• Sunday, May 31 - Consecration Sunday - a celebration of our pledges and commitments to Nexus.
• Sunday, May 31 - Book discussion of chapters 5-12 of The Shack at 11:30.  See Mark Smith for details.

Blessings,
Mike

Nexus News- April 23, 2009

Image by BrianWestChest via Flickr

Dear Friends of NexusChurch,

It's a toe-tapping, thought provoking Sunday this week!

10:00 a.m.: A Morning of Song, Music, Story, and Poetry. 

• 
  
  A wide range of Nexus musicians and creative folk, young and older, will share their talents.  Featured guest artist will be Sunil Mungur, solo classical guitarist.

11:30 a.m. -- Book discussion of The Shack 

• 
  
  Group just forming and open to all. This week focuses on chapters 1-5.

There's a lot coming in May, too.

Sunday, May 3- local blogger and activist Kris Royer Henninger speaks on "Blood is the Least of It: What Makes a Family?

Sunday, May 3 - potluck after church, followed by the Governing Council's special presentation on our upcoming stewardship opportunities and needs.

Sunday, May 10 - Women of Faith - a Nexus' "reinterpretation" of Mother's Day.  It's time to honor any woman important to your faith.

Friday, May 22 - Our hosting of homeless families through the Interfaith Hospitality Network in Lebanon

Sunday, May 31 - Consecration Sunday - a celebration of our pledges and commitments to Nexus.

If you ever wonder about the label "progressive," you might be interested in a short posting by Diana Butler Bass at http://http://blog.sojo.net/2009/04/21/defining-progressive/?continue

Blessings to you today, and everyday,

Mike