This Week’s Reflection

Some roles of a Father or Father-Figure include being a provider, a teacher, a protector, a role model, a supporter, and as a disciplinarian.

To know the heart of God, is to know the love of a parent, whether mother or father. It has been said that any man can be a father, but it takes a special man to be a daddy. In my own life, I have had both a father and a daddy in my life. I had a biological father, and I had a dad who raised me from birth. Both were important, but both served very different roles in my life.

In our story this week, we see a father with 2 sons facing a dilemma. He has 2 sons with very different needs, presenting challenges to his leadership. On one hand, the younger son demands his inheritance early, and then leaves home. Making all the wrong choices, the son returns home. On the other hand, the older son is angry about what his brother did and feels his father’s response was unfair to him. Did the father love one brother more than the other? Did the father handle this situation with both sons fairly and/or equitably? I believe that any parent would tell you that each child is different, and they don’t have favorites when it comes to their kids.

We see a lesson this week of rebellion and restoration. The son’s choices had consequences. The father’s choice to forgive was overwhelming; how much greater is the forgiveness and love of God?

Please join us for service at 10:30 ET onsite, online, or later on demand. All are welcome here.

Peace,

Dr. Rev-Teresa-Tygart
Volunteer Clergy

Church Calendar

Sunday, June 21
—10:30 am Unified Worship Service——10:30 am Unified Worship Service

Monday, June 22
—12:00 pm Prayer Call with Rev Jo-Anne Ludy
—12:00 PM Capital Pride Festival

Tuesday, June 23
—12:00 pm Prayer Call with Rev Jo-Anne Ludy
—07:00 pm Bible Study

Wednesday, June 24
—12:00 pm Prayer Call with Rev Jo-Anne Ludy

Thursday, June 25
—12:00 pm Prayer Call with Rev Jo-Anne Ludy

Friday, June 26
—12:00 pm Prayer Call with Rev Jo-Anne Ludy

Saturday, June 27
1:00 pm Navigating Our Church Transition Meeting

Sunday: June 28
——10:30 am Unified Worship Service

2026 Community Pride Events

“Come out, be proud and share God’s message of love out loud!”

Join MCCDC for an incredible weekend of celebration, community, and faith at the 2026 Capital Pride events! Here is how you can show up and share the love:

• Sat, June 20 @ 10:00 AM: MCCDC Pride Parade Float Decorating! Meet at the church to decorate, then we head to the staging area at 12:30 PM.

• Click here to see the Capital Pride Parade Map and Festival Map
•
• Sun, June 21: Capital Festival! Come visit our festival booth.
•
Volunteer & Table Shifts: We need your helping hands! Sign up for festival table shifts here.

(Don’t forget to fill out the insurance waiver at the end of the form!)

• Mon, June 22 @ 7:00 PM: Annual Pride Interfaith Service
• On Site: St. Mark’s Episcopal Church (301 A Street, SE).
• Click here to see the livestream of Interfaith Services
•
Get Your Gear: Rock the official look! Check out our updated “2026” collection on our merch store website.

Click here to go to the our on line store.

“Come out, be proud and share God’s message of love out loud!”

Contact Knut Panknin at pride@mccdc.com for more information on all events

Navigating Our Church Transition

You’re invited to join us for a meeting addressing the navigation of our Church Transition.

MCCDC and Rev Elder Miller Hoffman invite you to a special gathering on Saturday, June 27, from 1-4 PM.

This facilitated conversation will focus on our needs and hopes as a church community.

All are welcome to participate with a curious and patient heart. If you can’t attend, feel free to share your thoughts via email at revmillerjen@gmail.com with the subject line “MCCDC Share.”

Here are three ways to participate :
Click here to open Zoom and join automatically
Call In, +16469313860, Meeting ID:,89394118844#
On-Site 474 Ridge St., NW, Washington, DC 20001

Honors and Remembrance Tribute

We invite you to remember or honor loved ones with Honors and Remembrances.

The names of your loved ones will be included in our Sunday worship folder and during the Sunday worship service.

Suggested donations start at $25.00 per name, yet do not let finances be a barrier.

Cut off each week for submitting new tributes is Friday by 6 pm to provide time to update slides and worship folder for Sunday service.

If you have questions, please contact Rev Cathy at revcathy@mccdc.com

There are two Ways to make a tribute:

Scan the QR Code below to make an online Tribute!

CLICK HERE TO PRINT AND MAIL IN A HONORS AND REMEMBRANCE TRIBUTES FORM

MCCDC to 474 Ridge St NW, Washington DC 20001.

All tributes will end on June 21, 2026

Join Us for a Night of Joy, Self-Love & Silliness

Get ready for “Lessons In Joy, Self-Love & Silliness: A Cabaret Concert” – a delightfully entertaining evening that will transform your relationship with opera and classical music.

Enjoy the soul-stirring beauty of the art form in a way that feels as welcoming and accessible as a jazz or pop show. No prior knowledge needed!

• Featuring: Opera singer Chichi Enu and pianist Jasmin Lee
• Extras: Photo booth, pre- and post-concert receptions
• Dress Code: Cocktail or date-night attire encouraged for fabulous photos, but not required
• Age: 18+ event

Don’t miss this unique night out for grown folks! Visit chichienu.com for more info and to buy your tickets.

MCCDC’s New On-Site Check-In System

Hello Church Family and Friends,

We’re excited to announce that MCCDC is moving from manual sign-in sheets to a new automated check-in system!

Simply enter your phone number on the iPad, and it will check you in seamlessly.

If the system did not find you simply enter your information in the system form. Next check in you will only need to enter your phone number.

For any questions, please email Sheila Chittams at board@mccdc.com

“Empowering Growth “Rev. Dexter Brecht’s MCCDC Report

Hello MCCDC Family and Friends

Attached is the insightful MCCDC Onsite Report and Recommendations by Rev. Dexter Brecht, our MCC Church Support and Development Coordinator.

After a recent visit, Rev. Brecht has provided valuable recommendations that promise to enrich our community and spiritual journey.

Discover how these insights can benefit our congregation and strengthen our mission.

Stay informed and be part of our growth!

CLICK HERE TO READ THE REPORT from Rev Dexter

Report from Music Minister Search Team

The Music Minister Search Team would like to Thank you MCCDC family for providing feedback to the Music Minister Search Team.

By sharing your thoughts, hopes, and dreams you have reaffirmed known and provided new knowledge to the Search Team. This information was used to inform the structuring of the position description.

Please stay tuned for more information on the position announcement and how you can help to advertise by word of mouth.

Please click here to read the Congregational Feedback Report 2026 – MCCDC Music Ministry

In solidarity,

Your MCCDC Music Minister Search Team

Celebrating Our History: 55th Anniversary Wedding Photos Needed

Dear MCCDC Church Members and Friends,

As we prepare to celebrate our momentous 55th Anniversary, we want to honor the beautiful journeys of love, family, and community that have shaped our congregation over the decades.

Our beloved Church Mother, Cecilia Hayden-Smith, is gathering wedding pictures from our community to help document and preserve our rich collective history. Whether you were married recently or decades ago, your story is a vital piece of the vibrant tapestry that makes up Metropolitan Community Church of Washington D.C.

How You Can Help:
• What to Share: A favorite photo (or two!) from your wedding day.

• Who: This invitation is open to all current members and long-time friends of the church.

• Details to Include: Please include your names and the year of your wedding so we can accurately document our timeline.
•
How to Submit:

Please share your photos directly with Mother Cecilia Hayden-Smith by emailing oam@mccdc.com.

Thank you for helping us honor our past as we look forward to our future together!

MCCDC ORAL HISTORY PROJECT

MCCDC 55th Anniversary team would like you to share your MCCDC story through video

All are welcome this means friends and members regardless of how long you have attended MCCDC .

The Oral Project runs from May through September 2026.

Email Louis Hicks at oralhistory@mccdc.com if you like to make an video.

Prayer Corner

Please lift the following people up during your prayer time:

* Clara Carter’s sister, * Phyllis Carter Lewis * Joe Dawson * Betsy Kramer * Palestinian People in Gaza * Ukrainian People * Cecilia Hayden Smith and Esther Smith’s health * Bill Campbell * Jerry Giem * Tim Helm * Delores Fowler * Vernessa D. Wilson and Jackie Lois * Rev. Dr. Robin Hawley Gorsline * Glenn Conway * Evelyn Jones * Earline Budd * Prayers for our country * Kappy Brooks-Gordon * Michael Cunningham * Dr. Rev Teresa Tygart and partner Sue for healing * Cathy Batson’s Niece Lisa * Denita & Dale’s Daughter-in-law Marci Brooks for health * Emily Berry for healing * Elaine Durden-Hunter for the loss of her pet Angel. * Prayer for Denita & Dale’s friend Kendall Fulton as she continues her journey with cancer * Prayer for healing for Retired Rev Elder Dwayne Johnson * Beverly Barnett family due her passing, * Tim Helm for healing from surgery. *Prayer for healing for Robin Anderson

40th Walk & 5K to End HIV

Join the MCCDC Church Team for the 40th Annual Walk & 5K to End HIV!

Date: Saturday, September 19, 2026

Time: 8:00 AM

Location: Anacostia Park

(Roller Skating Pavillion)

1500 Anacostia Drive, SE

Washington, DC 20020

Free, on-site parking available

Be part of a meaningful cause and help us make a difference!

Copy and paste the link below to donate or join Team MCCDC.
http://www.walktoendhiv.org/goto/mccdc2026

Bible Study

” Join Our Weekly Bible Study! Explore scriptures and unconventional books to enrich your Christian journey.

Every Tuesday at 7 PM. Visit calendar.mccdc.com for the Zoom link or email Dale at mccdcbiblestudy@mccdc.com for questions. Let’s grow together in faith! “

Writers’ Ministry

“Join MCCDC’s Writers’ Ministry! Whether you’re a seasoned writer or just starting, come share and grow with us.

We meet every 3rd Saturday from 10 AM to 12 NOON via Zoom. For more info, contact gcsnyder01@aol.com. Let’s inspire each other

Click here to Join Zoom Meeting
Meeting ID: 865 7622 1632, Passcode: 146039

Grow Our Church

” Be a Part of MCCDC’s Growth! Join our Church Growth and Membership Team to connect with friends, family, and the community across the DMV and online.

Collaborate with fellow members to brainstorm new ways to reach and welcome people.

Contact Rev Cathy at revcathy@mccdc.com for more info. Let’s grow together in faith!”

Volunteer Worship Folder Team Members

” Share Your Talents! Join our Worship Folder Team to help prepare our weekly worship folders.

This role involves gathering information, designing, and producing folders with service orders, hymns, readings, and announcements. Interested?

Contact revcathy@mccdc.com. Let’s create meaningful worship experiences together!

Mental Health Awareness

Break the Silence, Begin Healing

Stigma grows in silence. Healing begins in community. Join us at MCCDC in creating cultures of reflection, open conversation, and action for mental health and wellness all year long.

Need Support?

* 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or Text 988
* Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
* Disaster Distress Helpline: Call or Text 1-800-985-5990
* Safe Place® TXT 4 HELP: Text 44357 (under 18 years old, in some communities 21 and under)
* Trans Lifeline: Call U.S. 877-565-8860 Canada 877-330-6366
* The Trevor Project: Text START to 678-678 or call 1-866-488-7386; for LGBTQ+ youth (under 25 years old)
* Veterans Crisis Line: Dial 988 then press 1 or Text 838255

Together, we can make a difference. Reach out today.

Join the MCCDC Team!

“Join Our Team! MCCDC is seeking a part-time custodian to maintain our church facilities and assist with some grounds work. Enjoy flexible hours and fair pay. Interested?

Contact Melvin Moore at 202-638-7373 or email churchoffice@mccdc.com or revcathy@mccdc.com. Be part of our community!

 

“Church Ministries”

 

MCCDC Voices

Join us 9 AM onsite at 474 Ridge ST NW, Washington, DC to sing and rehearse for worship.
Make new friends and enjoy a sense of musical belonging.

“Sing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs with thankfulness in your hearts to God” ~Colossians 3:16

Please email at pastors@mccdc.com for more information.

Scripture Reading

You’re invited to consider sharing your spiritual gifts by making a Scripture Reading Video or sharing a Video Testimony on what MCCDC means to you.

It does not have to be long and the AV team is standing by to help you with the video. Please email oam.mccdc.com for more information.

Moving Spirit Dance Ministry

Come dance for God! No experience needed. Email Cathy Batson at cathybatson1@verizon.net for more information. Check out past performances on our YouTube channel, including “I Can Only Imagine” (April 2019) and “Mighty River”(February 2018).

Please email at pastors@mccdc.com for more information.

JOIN PRAYER FROM NOON TO 12:30 PM Monday thru Friday

Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/7078722334

Meeting ID: 707 872 2334

The dial in is 301-715-8592

Meeting ID: 7078722334

Intercessory Prayer Team
Meets the 2nd and 4th Thursdays each month at 7 pm
Contact LaMar Jenkins at 202-750-08887

Bible Study Tuesdays at 7:00 pm Eastern

Click here to Join Zoom Meeting: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/434566329
or Dial: (301) 715-8592 ,Meeting ID: 434 566 329
Contact Dale Madyun-Baskerville at mccdcbiblestudy@mccdc.com for more information.

Pastoral Care Meeting
Meet 1st and 3rd Wednesday, each month at 6::30pm
Contact pastoralcare@mccdc.com for more information or interest in joining this vibrant church ministry this Fall

Writing Ministry

Join other MCCDC writers in our monthly Zoom Writing Ministry meeting.

For more information contact gcsnyder01@aol.com.

 

Join Us on YouTube and subscribe to the MCCDC YouTube Channel!