When I was in college, I was part of a community that valued scripture memory. Some of the verses in this week’s passage are ones I memorized long ago, and they still live in me today. Romans 12:1-2 says,

“Therefore, I urge you, my siblings, in view of God’s loving mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and authentic worship. Do not be conformed to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—God’s good, pleasing and mature will.” What a powerful invitation: to offer our whole selves to God in a way that brings joy to God’s heart. In a world where bodies are too often tortured, killed, diminished, or made to feel “less than” or “worth less,” we are called to something different and beautiful—we have the opportunity to offer our bodies to God in service, hope, and love.

When I was in college, I was part of a community that valued scripture memory. Some of the verses in this week’s passage are ones I memorized long ago, and they still live in me today. Romans 12:1-2 says,

“Therefore, I urge you, my siblings, in view of God’s loving mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and authentic worship. Do not be conformed to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—God’s good, pleasing and mature will.” What a powerful invitation: to offer our whole selves to God in a way that brings joy to God’s heart. In a world where bodies are too often tortured, killed, diminished, or made to feel “less than” or “worth less,” we are called to something different and beautiful—we have the opportunity to offer our bodies to God in service, hope, and love.

That service can take many forms as we live, grow, and minister together in community and in faith. The verses that follow in Romans lift up the many-gifted, multi-faceted body of Christ that we are together. Each of us has been given gifts, and each of us has the opportunity to discover that “sweet spot” where our gifts meet God’s call. What is your spiritual service to God? Do you know what your spiritual gifting is? I would be delighted to hold a conversation with you and explore the possibilities.

And this Sunday gives us a wonderful opportunity to celebrate those gifts in action. As part of our ongoing 55th Anniversary celebration, the 55th Anniversary Team and the Generosity Team are co-sponsoring a Pizza Party and Silent Auction fundraiser. Our goal is $5,000, and we hope you will come ready for food, fellowship, generosity, and fun. It promises to be a joyful, community-building time, and we are excited to see you on site after worship.

Join us for worship beforehand at 10:30 a.m. ET, onsite, online, or on demand. You are welcome here—and we can’t wait to gather with you.

Peace,
Rev Cathy

MCCDC McCann Award Nomination

Do you know someone who displays exceptional integrity, leadership, and a heart for volunteerism? MCCDC is seeking nominations for the Jim McCann Memorial Award for Ministry and Service.

This honor celebrates spirit-filled, loving, and gentle individuals who give freely and joyfully to all, and who labor long and hard in the Ministry of MCCDC — just like Jim McCann himself.

Help us shine a light on someone who consistently lifts up others in our community.

Click here to view the McCann Award Charter

Click here to complete Nomination form Please submit your nomination by Monday August 24, 2026.

MCCDC ORAL HISTORY PROJECT

Tell Us Your MCCDC Story?

MCCDC would like for you to share your MCCDC story through a video.

• The video should run no longer than three minutes.

You can participate in this oral history project by creating a video recording of yourself answering the following questions:

1. What is your first and last name?
2. How were you first introduced to MCCDC?
3. Please share a favorite memory of a time spent here at MCCDC.

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

• The Oral History Project runs from May through September 2026.

All participant must complete a wavier.

Click here to print and sign the wavier for your video story..

• For more information email Louis Hicks at oralhistory@mccdc.com if you would like to make a video.

Pizza, Prizes, and Purpose: Celebrate MCCDC’s 55th Anniversary
Silent Auction !

Help Metropolitan Community Church of Washington D.C. (MCCDC) reach its $5,000 anniversary goal! Every dollar raised funds our ongoing ministry, community outreach, and upcoming 55th Anniversary Finale.

Kickoff Event: Pizza Party & Silent Auction

Join your church family for food, fellowship, and friendly bidding.
• Date: Sunday, August 23, 2026
• Time: 12:00 p.m. EST (Right after service)
• What to expect: Delicious pizza, great company, and exciting auction items up for grabs.

How You Can Help Us Hit $5,000

We are asking each supporter to consider a symbolic donation of $55.00 or more in honor of our 55 years of ministry. However, gifts of any size make a massive impact.

• Attend: Come to the pizza party and bid generously on auction items.
• Give Today: Donate online right now or give through the standard church announcement channels.
• Stay Informed: Check the weekly church email newsletter for exciting new auction item previews and event updates.

CLICK HERE TO DONATE $55.00 OR MORE

Save the Date: The Grand Finale

The fundraising culminates soon! Mark your calendars for our formal 55th Anniversary Finale Event on Saturday, September 26, 2026.

Sincerely,
The MCCDC 55th Anniversary and Generosity Teams

Join Our Team as an Office Volunteer!

Are you looking to make a difference?

We are looking for some volunteers or better known as “office angels” to come in and work in the office during the week.

Office volunteers to assist with tasks like filing, answering phones, updating phone lists, and escorting contractors onsite.

We would love to get 4-5 volunteers so we could rotate the coverage in the office during the week.

If you are interested….

Please contact Tina Fulp at board@mccdc.com or Rev. Cathy at revcathy@mccdc.com.

 

Church Calendar

 
Sunday, August 23
—10:30 am Unified Worship Service
——12:00 pm MCCDC’s 55th Anniversary Silent Auction

Monday, August 24
—12:00 pm Prayer Call with Rev Jo-Anne Ludy

Tuesday, August 25
—12:00 pm Prayer Call with Rev Jo-Anne Ludy

—Bible Study on Summer Break

Wednesday, August 26
—12:00 pm Prayer Call with Rev Jo-Anne Ludy

Thursday, August 27
—12:00 pm Prayer Call with Rev Jo-Anne Ludy

Friday, August 28
—12:00 pm Prayer Call with Rev Jo-Anne Ludy

Saturday, August 29
No Events Scheduled

Sunday, August 30
——10:30 am Unified Worship Service

 

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

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

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.

“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!