Ridley Park United Methodist Church will be utilizing this series from January 7th, 2024 through February 4th, 2024.
Series Overview
Roots give us the stability and nourishment we need to grow and break new ground. As we seek to grow in our faith as individuals and as the church, looking back at the deep roots of the Methodist movement can help us look forward to our future. More than mere traditions or rituals, our Methodist roots are evidence of God’s Spirit moving through our history, the same Spirit who is breathing life into us today.
WEEK 1: BAPTISM | MARK 1:4-12 – January 7th
Baptism is God’s cleansing of our original sin, initiation into Christ’s Holy Church, incorporation into the body of Christ, and empowerment by the Holy Spirit for a lifelong process of discipleship in community.
WEEK 2: GRACE | EPHESIANS 2:4-10 – January 14th
Grace is a gift from God given freely to all people, and because of this gift we are saved. This grace is the spark that makes the Methodist fire burn, the starting point and an essential root of our theology.
WEEK 3: PERSONAL AND SOCIAL HOLINESS: MISSIONAL CONNECTION | MICAH 6:6-8 – January 21st
John Wesley, said “There is no holiness but social holiness.” Salvation and a full life in Christ are seen in personal and social holiness. This holiness calls us to a missional connection with our communities and the world.
WEEK 4: HOLY CONFERENCING | COLOSSIANS 3:12-17 – January 28th
In the United Methodist Church, holy conferencing focuses on the ability of laity and clergy to come together and discuss and discern difficult topics guided by the Holy Spirit, which can be a witness to the world. The local church can also engage in holy conferencing through its ministry and decision-making.
WEEK 5: COMMUNION | 1 CORINTHIANS 11:23-26 – February 4th
In the United Methodist Church, communion is a means of grace and a holy mystery where Christ is spiritually present and the invitation is open to all.