Help for Ukraine

As we watch the news from Ukraine, it’s easy to feel helpless and fearful.

As in other times of social anxiety, our Methodist tradition has direction for us. The United Methodist Church speaks against war. The United Methodist Discipline states that “we deplore war and urge the peaceful settlement of all disputes among nations” (par 164.I). In fact, we make the bold statement that war is “incompatible with the teachings of Christ” (par 165.C). Our bishops and other faith leaders have joined together in denouncing the violence and war that Russia has begun in Ukraine. You can read some of those statements below.

It’s easy for us to make statements of faith, but as we watch the war unfolding on our televisions, what do we do? It’s easy to live in fear of World War III, fear of nuclear attack, fear of loss of life and loss of our lives as we know it.

At times like this, I try to focus on a bigger picture. We know that the trajectory of history is that God will win. We know this from the cross and the empty tomb. We know this from the assertions at Creation. We know this from the witness of Revelation. God will win. I believe that God’s peace and goodness will win over all the hatred and selfishness in this world. I believe God will win, even if I lose my temporary life.

I don’t know what will happen in the coming days. I do know that we serve a God who calls me to compassion and response. We serve a God who calls us to feed the hungry, clothe the naked, visit those in prison. These are tangible ways we can help even in this time. While I can’t be physically there, United Methodist Committee on Relief is in communication with partners in the region, exploring the coordination of humanitarian response in Ukraine. Any gift you give to UMCOR goes directly to the need, with not one dime used for overhead costs. This is a trusted way to help others in need in Ukraine.

If you are called to give financially, you may give in two ways: directly to UMCOR or through the church. Links are below to give you more information about the funds that you are giving to. Click on the giving button on those pages, or send a check to the office with the UMCOR Advance number on it.

Beyond our financial gifts, we can give the gift of prayer. From 9-10 a.m. Monday, join me in the Sanctuary as we spend time in quiet reflection and prayer. We will have time to pray out loud, I will lead us in some prayers, there will be quiet. Come for the entire time, come for a small part of the time, or pray with us in the comfort of your home.

You can also sign up for a 24-hour prayer vigil for the people of Ukraine and the world that starts at 10 a.m. on Monday and continues through 10 a.m. on Tuesday Sign up here: https://tinyurl.com/UkraineVigil

How will you partner with others to be a force for good in this world? We can’t stop tanks or nuclear warheads, but we can do good. Join me, won’t you?

See you soon,
Pastor Lynn

UM News Article
https://www.umnews.org/en/news/united-methodists-respond-to-invasion-of-ukraine

Council of Bishops Statement
https://www.unitedmethodistbishops.org/newsdetail/umc-bishops-call-for-peace-in-ukraine-16377803

To give through UMCOR:
…to directly support pastors in Ukraine and Moldova: https://umcmission.org/advance-project/14053a/
…to support International Disasters such as this one: https://umcmission.org/advance-project/982450/

 

WORSHIP SCHEDULE
(Masks are encouraged.)
Join us for worship:

• 8:30 a.m. Traditional service with choirs in Sanctuary and child care in Rm 15
• 10 a.m. Modern worship service with Praise Team in Fellowship Hall
• 10 a.m. Traditional service with choirs in Sanctuary
• 10 a.m. Youth and children’s Sunday School and child care
• 10 a.m. Livestream premieres on YouTube and Website

To access our livestream service:

• From the main menu on our website click “Worship.”  -OR-
• Go to YouTube and search for UMC St. Mark’s Oro Valley or use this link.