The Vista
News and Events for Vista Ridge United Methodist Church
October 15, 2015
Pastor Mary Beth's Musings
"We have raised the largest unchurched generation in the history of our country." Tim Wright
As church "experts" wrestle with the reality named by Lutheran pastor Tim Wright, many point to a trend that began in the early 80s and continued into the first part of the 21st century. In order to reach the Baby Boomer generation, many churches created "Kid Friendly Worship." Parents could drop their children off at a dynamic, fun, energized kid worship experience and then go to their own "Big Church" where they could focus on their own time of worship without having to manage wiggly, distracted little ones.
Early in my ministry, I served a church that provided just that kind of ministry. And that Kid Worship was well-planned and executed with a devoted and creative team of volunteers. It had great attendance, all the way through 5th grade. But I must confess, I missed the wiggly, joyful noise of little ones in worship. And here was the unintended consequence:
"By segregating our kids out of worship, we never assimilated them into the life of the congregation. They had no touchpoints. They had no experience. They had no connection with the main worship service—its liturgy, its music, its space, its environment, and its adults. It was a foreign place to them. And so … once they finished with the kids/or youth program, they left the church." (Tim Wright)
I'm so grateful that at VRUMC, children are welcomed and embraced in worship. They participate in the singing, the liturgy, the prayers, the sacraments, standing beside Big People—adults and youth all worshipping together. Yes, we provide Children's Church for 3-7 year olds—but it's intentionally woven into what happens in the worship service. It's a place to learn about Big Church and get ready for Big Church. They hear the word of God proclaimed and continue to worship and then they come back! To offer their gifts, to sing, and to stand with the community.
This Sunday, our children will lead us in worship. They've been working hard since early September, getting ready to Tell the Story through song, dance, drama, art, prayer, praise, presence. They are EXCITED and full of energy because they're IN CHARGE of CHURCH this Sunday! Oh my, we will be blessed!
I'm praying for you. I hope you're praying for me.
Glory to God!
Pastor Mary Beth
Fall Festival/Trunk or Treat
Volunteers are needed to support our Fall Festival by hosting a trunk and treats, running a game and donating candy, prizes and 2-liter sodas. Sign up after worship. Fall Festival is set for 4-6 p.m. Sunday, October 25. The event is an excellent opportunity to invite friends and neighbors to experience our church.
CCA Canned Meat Donations Celebration
Vista Ridge is a generous family—helping to feed those in need by donating 261 items so far this month to the CCA Food Pantry. VRUMC is responsible for the canned meat shelves and donations are accepted year-round. Thank you for supporting the CCA angels!
Mommy and Me Bible Study
Join with other adults and their children 0-4 years for Mommy and Me Bible Study at 9:30 a.m. Friday, October 23. This month’s theme is Wiggle Those Bones, You are Wonderfully Made! There is no cost to attend. An RSVP is needed to Lisa Dominy, lisa@vrumc.org, so supplies can be planned accordingly.
Commitment Sunday on October 25
Sunday, October 25, is Commitment Sunday. During the next week, please prayerfully consider your financial commitment to support the work of God through the ministries of Vista Ridge UMC during 2016. Seventeen advance commitments for $148,990 have already been pledged. Bring your completed Estimate of Giving card, which was sent by mail, to worship on Commitment Sunday. There is the option this year to submit commitments electronically at www.vistaridgeumc.org via the Giving button at the top of the homepage.
All Saints Sunday
Vista Ridge UMC will remember family members who have passed away this year during All Saints Sunday on November 1. Please list loved ones on the back of Sunday's attendance card.
Morgan Moore CCA Food Drive Volunteers Wanted
Volunteers are needed Saturday, November 14, to assist with the Morgan Moore CCA Food Drive. The food drive is from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Albertsons, 1087 W. Main St., in Lewisville. Volunteers assist with greeting customers, handing out flyers and accepting food donations. Sign up below. This year marks the 10th year of Vista Ridge’s food drive, created by the late Morgan Moore, a former church member.
Sound and Media Technician Job Opening
Vista Ridge United Methodist Church
Traditional Worship, 8:30 a.m. Sunday
Blended Worship, 11 a.m. Sunday
Email: laurie@vrumc.org
Website: www.vistaridgeumc.org
Location: 2901 Denton Tap Road, Lewisville, TX, United States
Phone: 972.315.5225