This Week’s Reflection
Inhale: To love and be loved.
Exhale: My purpose remains.
Inhale: I don’t know what my path it.
Exhale: But I am led into freedom.
Inhale: I listen for the Divine.
Exhale: My soul whispers back.
~Cole Aurther Riley
How often do we sincerely ask anyone—let alone God—to do a thorough search of our insides and outsides? To examine the intentions of our hearts, the wanderings of our minds, and the deepest desires hidden within us? I wonder what is really there in those quiet, sometimes unexplored places of the soul. What motivations, fears, hopes, and longings lie beneath the surface? Psalm 139 acknowledges that wherever we are, wherever we go, however we are getting there, that God is present and knows our motivations, our habits, our front room and back-room stories.
Inviting the Lord into those spaces can feel vulnerable, yet it is also where transformation begins. The Holy One already knows us completely and loves us fully. Rather than fearing what might be uncovered, we can welcome that gentle searching with trust, believing that whatever is revealed can be met with grace, healing, and guidance. Perhaps today is an opportunity to simply open our hearts and pray, “Search me, O God,” trusting that the journey inward is also a journey deeper into love, freedom, community, and renewed hope.
Come worship with your MCCDC family this Sunday at 10:30 am ET—onsite, online, or later on demand. However you are able to join, your presence is a blessing, and there is a place for you in the journey.
Peace,
Rev Cathy Alexander
Associate Pastor
Church Calendar
Sunday, July 19
—10:30 am Unified Worship Service
—12:00 pm 2026 Congregational Meeting
Monday, July 20
—12:00 pm Prayer Call with Rev Jo-Anne Ludy
Tuesday, July 21
—12:00 pm Prayer Call with Rev Jo-Anne Ludy
—06:30 pm July Board Meeting
—Bible Study on Summer Break
Wednesday, July 22
—12:00 pm Prayer Call with Rev Jo-Anne Ludy
Thursday, July 23
—12:00 pm Prayer Call with Rev Jo-Anne Ludy
Friday, July 24
—12:00 pm Prayer Call with Rev Jo-Anne Ludy
Saturday, July 25
No Events Scheduled
Sunday, July 26
——10:30 am Unified Worship Service
2026 Congregational Meeting
Mark your calendars! We will be holding Congregational Meeting at 12:00 EST on:
July 19: Congregational Meeting In-Person & Zoom
Here are two ways to participate :
Click here to open Zoom and join automatically
On-Site 474 Ridge St., NW, Washington, DC 20001
Click here for the Congregational Packet
MCCDC will be voting on the current operating budget for 2026.
POC for this meeting is MCCDC Board members at board@mccdc.com.
2026 July Board Meeting
Mark your calendars!
The third Tuesday of the month is almost here. Get ready for the July board meeting.
July 21st, 2026 06:30 pm
Click here to open Zoom and join automatically
Click here to view Board Meeting Documents
POC for this meeting is MCCDC Board members at board@mccdc.com.
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 * Prayers for Anthony McMillian due to recent loss of his daughter Nicole.
MCCDC’s New On-Site Check-In System
Exciting News at MCCDC!
We’re thrilled to announce our transition to a new automated check-in system!
How It Works:
Simply enter your phone number on the iPad to check in seamlessly.
If you’re not found, just fill out the system form, and next time, your phone number will do the trick!
For questions, email Sheila Chittams at board@mccdc.com
Join Our Team as an Office Volunteer!
Are you looking to make a difference? We’re seeking a dedicated office volunteer to assist with tasks like filing, answering phones, updating phone lists, and escorting contractors onsite.
If you’re interested, please contact Rev. Cathy at revcathy@mccdc.com.
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.
Celebrating Our History: 55th Anniversary Wedding Photos Needed
Dear MCCDC Members and Friends,
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!
Open Hearts, Open Hands: Join Our New Communion Service Team
A new Worship Service Communion Team is forming, and we invite you to be a part of extending God’s radical welcome to our community—both onsite and online.
Whether you are looking for a deeper way to engage in worship or want to offer a ministry of presence, there is a place for you here.
You can serve in a variety of meaningful ways:
* Co-Celebrant: Stand at the altar and help lead the table.
* Prayer Server: Administer communion and offer prayerful support to those receiving.
* Elements Bearer: Hold the bread/wafer and juice during the service.
No prior experience is necessary! We will provide all the training you need. All that is required is a willing heart, an open spirit, and a little time to serve periodically during worship.
If you desire to show God’s love through prayer and presence, please prayerfully consider this opportunity.
Ready to learn more?
Please contact Rev. Cathy (revcathy@mccdc.com) and Dr. Teresa (preachertygart@gmail.com) for more details.
40th Annual 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!
CLICK HERE TO JOIN MCCDC TEAM OR DONATE
Komen Breast Cancer Walk!
Please plan to join MCCDC Breast Cancer team in the Susan G. Komen Foundation’s annual More than Pink Walk to End Breast Cancer on Sat. Oct. 11, 2025 at 08:am
National Harbor, MD
Southpointe at National Harbor
802 National Harbor Boulevard
Oxon Hill, MD, 20745
Click here to donate or join team MCCDC.
Contact Rev Cathy for more information at revcathy@mccdc.com
MCCDC Bible Study Summer Break
MCCDC Bible Study will be on summer break from July 01, 2026, through September 08, 2026. Bible study sessions will resume on September 15, 2026.
For any questions or further information, please contact Dale Madyun-Baskerville at mccdcbiblestudy@mccdc.com.
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!
