BY FAITH: STEWARDS OF THE HEART
There’s a voice that cries out in the silence, searching for hearts that will love.
Longing for a child that will give of their all, give it all, God wants it all.
And there’s a God that moves over the earth, searching for a heart that is desperate.
Longing for a child that will give of their all, give it all, God wants it all.
And God says, love me, love me, with your whole heart, I want it all today.
Serve me, serve me with your life now, I want it all today.
More of you, all of you, I want it all today.
“God Wants It All” by Dominique Jones
What does it mean to be “all in”, whole hearted, and completely committed? If our hearts are the beginning place and the resting place of our passions and our desires, then how do we give our all as suggested in the words of the song above?
We are called to love God with our whole , soul, mind, body and strength. We are also called to our neighbors as ourselves. The imagery that exists about the is plentiful in the world around us, and certainly means so many different things to different people.
In this Sunday’s scripture, Mark 10:13-16, we again see Jesus speaking to his disciples about children and his words provide some clarity regarding the . In ancient times (and in some modern times) children were prized to have, yet were kept at a distance, mistreated, and marginalized. Jesus 
encourages hearers that one must receive God’s Reign with a like a child. In this Sunday’s message, we will explore what this might mean for us today here at MCCDC. See you at 9AM and 11AM.
Peace,
Rev. Cathy
MINISTRY CONNECTIONS
Opportunities to serve in ministry are plentiful. If you have a heart to serve and to be a part of something larger than yourself, please consider this your personal invitation to join in ministry. Where needed most:
MCCDC Choir – Consider joining the choir for the Christmas concert which will be held on Dec 4th and 5th. Please see our 11 am Music Director Tyrone Stanley for more information. Our 9 am choir has room for you. Please see our 9 am Music Director Daniel Scearce for more information.
Website Content – Many go to MCCDC’s website to learn more information, hear sermons, see pictures of our community even before stepping foot into our sanctuary. We are in great need of a volunteer to assist in this communications ministry.
Children’s Ministry – The Children’s Ministry provides a fun and safe space for children to learn about spiritual values, while valuing each child’s unique talents and abilities.
Hospitality – God’s hospitality extends welcome to the entire community, the Hospitality Ministry provides arms and feet to that welcome. The ministry is responsible for coordinating food and welcome during the social time.
Information Station – These faithful folks coordinate the sharing of information about ministry activities, events and directions. They extend the hospitality of welcome to everyone who has questions or require assistance.
AV Ministry – This Ministry is responsible for the sights and sounds in worship and other services in the sanctuary. If you feel called to investigate learning and participating in providing audio and video support, please pray about connecting.
If you are interested in any of these service ministries, please contact Rev Cathy at revcathy@mccdc.com or 202-638-7373.
Team MCCDC has formed and all we need is YOU!!! The walk to end HIV will be held on Saturday Oct 24th. To rejoice in our Anniversary, our goal is to have 45 walkers to raise $10,000. Bob Whitman is our team captain. Go to our page to join the team. http://bit.ly/1OUKFJ2
MINISTRY MEETING TAKES PLACE OCTOBER 7
The Bi-Monthly Ministry Leader meeting will take place on Oct 7 from 7-8:15pm. Please ensure your ministry is represented at this important meeting as we will be reviewing the 2016 budget and other requirements. Please contact Rev Cathy should you have questions or require additional information. RevCathy@mccdc.com or 202-638-7373.
MCCDC TO PARTICIPATE IN WESLEY CONFERENCE
Fall Wesley Seminary Reach New Disciples Conference
Saturday, November 14, 9:30 a.m.-1 p.m.
Washington, DC
Strong and growing congregations typically have a very high percentage of people who are actively involved in learning, serving, and leading. Yet most churches have a large contingent of less-active members. Research suggests these people long for spiritual growth, but many church activities fail to connect with their needs, interests, and life patterns. At the Increasing Active Engagement Conference you will explore best practices for getting and keeping people involved and engaged. Increasing Active Engagement is ecumenical and designed for both laity and clergy.
Presentations and Workshops
- Changing Patterns of Congregational Engagement
- Connecting People to their Purpose
- The Art of Asking
- Connecting People through Affinity or Support Groups
- Developing a Year-round Plan for Increasing Engagement
- Keeping People Involved
- Missional Outreach as a Way to Build Engagement
- Ways to Increase Frequency of Worship Attendance
If you are interested in attending, please contact Rev Cathy at revcathy@mccdc.com or 202-638-7373.
CELEBRATING MCC ANNIVERSARY
MCCDC will contribute to the celebration of MCC’s Anniversary.
We will offer honors and remembrances and the funds raised will support MCC Emerging Ministries. Please see a message below from MCC Moderator Rev. Elder. Dr. Nancy Wilson.
WORKING TOGETHER WE WILL SUCCEED!!
Dear Friend,
As we reflect on nearly 50 years of MCC Ministry, I invite you to reflect on how we all participate in building God’s vision for the world. Your generosity allows MCC to impact and transform the lives of those in our communities and beyond.
We are thankful for everything you do for the church, and simply put, without your kindness and generosity we could not be part of the work God has given us to do. It is that time when I ask once again for your prayers and consideration of our Anniversary Sunday. These funds help support the programs and ministries of our church.
We have set a lofty goal of $250,000 to go towards Emerging Ministries and other vital MCC programs. The Anniversary Sunday campaign is one integral component of reaching this goal over the course of the upcoming year. I know that by working hand in hand, we can and will succeed!
As you consider your response, let us pray:
Direct us Lord in all our actions,
and strengthen us with your continual help
that in all our works begun,
continued and ended in Your love,
we may glorify You,
and finally by Your grace live fully,
through Jesus the Christ. Amen.
Grace and Peace,
Rev. Dr. Nancy Wilson
Global Moderator, Metropolitan Community Churches
ADULT SUNDAY SCHOOL CONTINUES
Let Us School You (And you can teach us a few things, too)
Adult Sunday School has restarted. It is held Sunday mornings between the two services from 10:15 ’till 10:45, in the lower-level conference room.
Our topic of discussion is an overview to Bible basics.
Bring your coffee and cookies. Sessions are short but pack a lot of punch.
It’s a great way to spend a half-hour – learn something new and fellowship, too.
All are welcome and wanted.
JOIN THE 45TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION TEAM
There is still room for you on the MCCDC 45th Anniversary Celebration Team.If you would like to be a member of this historic team for this historic event, please contact Rev Cathy for more information. revcathy@mccdc.com or 202-638-7373. The FIRST organizational meeting will be held on Wed, Oct 7th from 6-7 PM.
COMPLETE YOUR
“45 YEARS: WE’VE COME THIS FAR BY FAITH” PLEDGE CARD
We have launched the MCCDC “45 Years: We’ve Come This Far By Faith” Campaign. Please make sure you return your pledge card to the church office or you can put it in the offering plate on Sunday.
As we celebrate the 45th anniversary, let’s come together and help shape the future of MCCDC!!
CHRISTMAS CONCERT DATES ANNOUNCED
SAVE THE DATES!
The 2015 Worship Arts Ministry Christmas concerts will take place on Friday, Dec 4th and Saturday, Dec 5th at 7:30PM You will not want to miss this concert as it will be an evening to remember.
BLESSING OF ANIMALS SERVICE
Saturday, October 3 11AM
Sometimes God sends guardian angels to us who are clothed in fur, feathers or scales. To recognize the special pets and animal companions in our lives, MCCDC will be holding a special Blessing of the Animals service on Saturday Oct 3rd 11 AM. A blessing of the animals is a tradition among many Christian churches and is often conducted in October near the feast day of St. Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of animals and the environment.
In order to make sure our animals remain safe, please use their leashes or pet carriers. We’ll be sure to have water for your beloved companions.
Please attend with your animal companions-and invite others to attend also.
COUPLES RETREAT SET FOR OCT. 17
Dr. Veronica Franklin will conduct a couple’s retreat on October 17th. The retreat will be held from 9 AM to 4 PM. The cost will be $75 per couple. For more information or to register, please contact churchoffice@mccdc.com or 202-638-7373.
CALENDAR Highlights
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 3
BLESSING OF THE ANIMALS
11AM-RAIN OR SHINE
MCCDC
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 4
9AM /11AM
WORSHIP SERVICE
“BY FAITH: STEWARDS OF THE HEART”
REV. CATHY ALEXANDER
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 6
BIBLE STUDY: YOUR WORSHIP
7PM
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 7
45TH ANNIVERSARY TEAM MEETING
6PM
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 7
MINISTRY LEADERS MEETING
MCCDC
7PM
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 24
WALK TO END HIV
FREEDOM PLAZA
