Outside the Box: Cup of Salvation

Dear Fellow Ministers,

This week is the Western NC United Methodist Church Annual Conference at Lake Junaluska (access livestream). The theme for 2026 is “Rebuild my Church.” We have close to 20 delegates from our church, including clergy, laity, and Metro District At-Large delegates. We invite your prayers for our shared ministry together. Bishop Ken Carter will lead us as we consider a partnership with the Ukraine-Moldova Annual Conference and as we take up special offerings for that conference and the Equity Fund for the Repair of Historically Black Churches. We are especially glad that several of our lay delegates will be leading workshops!

If you weren’t able to worship with us this past Sunday, please view our services here. Pastor Susan led us in deeper thinking about the cup of salvation. As always, the music was amazing. And, our “Experience of the Holy Spirit” was shared by Ted Smith in an incredible story of forgiveness. (View Ted’s video.) As we shared on Sunday, please understand that this video contains sensitive material that may be difficult for some viewers.

One of the fun things we have been doing in recent weeks is our weekly videos introducing you to our staff. The staff of MUMC is a true gift to our shared work together. This week, you can learn about Joel Mullis and ways you can volunteer to help with our technical production.

As always, please go to our website and the weekly Celebration newsletter for specific ways you can be involved in the ministries of MUMC.

This coming week, while several of our clergy and laity will be at the annual conference, Rev. Judi Hunt will be preaching on “Temptation” from Matthew 6:9-13. Please pray through this text as God forms a sermon in all of us who participate.

I can’t tell you how honored I am to get to be one of your pastors. I thank God each day for you and your discipleship. I look forward to being in ministry with you this week!

In Christ’s Service,
David

Did you know that the comprehensive list of completed items for the Capital Campaign has been updated? Our Feasibility sessions identified other projects for the Trustees Committee’s focus, but smaller Accessibility improvements continue to occur! Thank you to everyone who is making this possible through gifts to the Beyond Hospitality Capital Campaign.

Did you know that the MUMC Campus Garden Committee works hard all year long to make our property inviting and beautiful? Stop by the Courtyard to see God’s creation in full bloom!

Did you know that last week, several members of our Global Impact missions team had the opportunity to tour Roof Above and see first-hand how this MUMC ministry partner serves unhoused persons in our community? They toured the Day Center, where anyone in need can get lunch, laundry, a shower, recharge their phones or use the house phone, receive mail, etc.

Did you know that our Micah Connection Creation Care Ministry, in conjunction with the Town of Matthews, held its annual Native Milkweed sale in the church parking lot? They were sold out within an hour!

Did you know that last Saturday’s Morning of Wellness featured three outstanding practitioners who delivered informative presentations on Biofield Tuning, Brain Training, and Acupuncture? More than 40 people from the community attended to learn practical ways to support and improve their health and well-being. Events like this also provide a meaningful opportunity to welcome those who may not regularly attend church and connect them with valuable wellness resources.