This Week’s Reflection
“Our deepest calling is to grow into our own authentic self-hood, whether or not it conforms to some image of who we “ought” to be. As we do so, we will not only find the joy that every human being seeks–we will also find our path of authentic service in the world.” ~Parker J. Palmer
We live in a world where oppression exists in many forms. Sometimes the seeds are sown deep inside us at a young age. These seeds are watered when we receive instruction, council, and example from our surroundings, our society, social media, our families, and friends. When those seeds take root and blossom, the weeds of “-isms” (internalized or externalized) come out and permeate us and our society. The harmful result is continued poverty, a system of inequitable distribution of health care, homelessness, joblessness, and political systems that at times seem frozen in gridlock.
Even with these potential realities, there is hope for the individual, and hope for the community that is outlined in Sunday’s gospel lesson found in Mark 10:42-45. The passage speaks of a different way to approach power and influence, as well as a radical inversion of the power structure supported by societal norms. After a power struggle among the disciples Jesus intervenes and tells them that whoever wants to be great among people must become servants. Service comes in many forms making it so especially important to first look inward and as Parker Palmer notes, realize one’s deepest calling to authentic self-hood.
God’s call is not for us to overtly or covertly hold power over people, yet to serve; to take responsibility and move with and work with those entrusted to our care. This does not mean there won’t be disagreement and sometimes conflict. It can mean, however, that we can co-create, communicate, and celebrate in community. Sunday’s message will explore what it means to serve, to invert the structures of power, and to follow Jesus’ example of liberation.
Join us this Sunday at 9am and 11am ET as we gather for worship online via Facebook and YouTube. Please check in and participate in the chat box to join in the discussion during service.
Peace,
Rev. Cathy Alexander
Associate Pastor
Sanctuary Closed
The church building will be closed for repairs during much of October. While contractors replace our roof, the ventilation systems will be shut off.
In-person worship will resume on Sunday, October 24th. Until then, please join us virtually via live stream for “borderfree” worship on October 3rd, 10th and 17th. Here’s how to join:
• On our website: live.mccdc.com
• On Facebook: facebook.mccdc.com
• On YouTube: youtube.mccdc.com
Writers’ Ministry
MCCDC’s Writers’ Ministry will gather next Saturday October 16 at 10 a.m.
Whether you are experienced, want to begin writing, or do more, please consider joining. Contact Rev. Dr. Robin Hawley Gorsline, Writer-Theologian in Residence, writer@robinhawleygorsline.com.
Virtual Walk & 5K to End HIV
On Saturday, October 23, we are participating in the 35th annual Walk & 5K to End HIV benefiting the programs and services of Whitman-Walker Health.
While we may not be able to walk side-by-side this year, we can come together virtually to share stories, support one another, and raise money to save lives.
Click here for more information, donate or to join Team MCCDC
Virtual Hospitality Half Hour
Please join your MCCDC family for a zoom church social on Sunday October 24th at 12:30 pm ET. All are welcome to join in and catch up with your church family. Here’s the information to participate:
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85779345234
Meeting ID: 857 7934 5234
One tap mobile
+13017158592,,85779345234# US (Washington DC)
New Attender’s Pastor Social
If you have joined the MCCDC community in the last 2 years you are invited to attend a virtual social with Rev. Dwayne and Rev. Cathy. We would enjoy meeting you, getting to know you better, and welcoming you to the MCCDC family. The social will be held on Sunday Oct 31st at 12:30 pm ET by zoom.
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89838999334
Meeting ID: 898 3899 9334
One tap mobile
+13017158592,,89838999334# US (Washington DC)
Membership Class
If you are interested in learning more about becoming a member of MCCDC, a membership class will be offered on Sunday December 12th from 12:30 pm ET to 2 pm ET. Please contact Rev Dwayne (revdewayne@mccdc.com) or Rev Cathy (revcathy@mccdc.com) if you would like to attend or have questions.
MCCDC Leadership Opportunity!
Are you looking for a new way to serve your MCCDC community? Can you envision yourself in a leadership position? And do you have a passion for innovation and hands-on implementation during this challenging time? Then we might have just the right opportunity for you!
The Board of Directors is looking for motivated and qualified candidates to run for seats on the Board of Directors this year. Two positions will be open due to term expirations in 2021. We are looking for a diverse group of people with the spiritual gifts of leadership, discernment, and compassion. We are especially looking for people with practical experience in strategic planning, financial management/fundraising/legacy planning, policy development, program oversight, or legal matters.
If you feel called and have been a member of MCCDC in good standing for the past six months, you are eligible to run. Please submit a brief bio and a letter of interest to the Board
You are also encouraged to talk to Senior Pastor Rev. Elder Dwayne Johnson or Board Member Knut Panknin if you have questions or would like to receive more information.
C19 Booster Shots
COVID-19 vaccine booster shots are now available for anyone age 65+ who received the Pfizer vaccine more than six months ago. Most pharmacies offer walk-in service. (Guidance for Moderna and J&J recipients is forthcoming from the CDC.)
Booster shots are authorized for people 18-64 with underlying medical conditions including asthma, diabetes, obesity; people 18-64 who work in high-risk settings including healthcare, schools and grocery stores. Additional doses are also recommended for immunocompromised individuals.
Find your vaccine card or access your vaccine record by visiting myir.dc.gov (DC), md.myir.net (Maryland), vdh.virginia.gov (Virginia); call your healthcare provider to discuss your options for a booster, or visit vaccines.gov to find a location near you.
Congregational Forum & Meeting
We will hold our annual Congregational Forum this Sunday, November 7th, following worship at 12:30 p.m. ET.
The information packet with our agenda and reports from ministry leaders will be emailed separately.
Here are three ways to connect:
· Click here to open Zoom and join automatically
· Launch Zoom and enter Meeting ID 893 3832 9649
· Dial (301) 715-8592 by phone, using the same Meeting ID
On November 21 st, we’ll hold our Congregational Meeting for active members to approve the 2021 budget and elect new board members.t
Prayer Corner
Please lift the following people up during your prayer time:
j.scales and family in the passing of their father • Francine Clark and the family of Rose Herring • The family of Louis Hicks, Sr. • Lilah Blackstone and the family of Terry Blackstone • Bob Jones &Bob Jones’ son Chuck & wife Karen • Jerry Giem & Jerry Giem’s son, Jason and nephew, Travis • Valeria Myers’ Daughter Chantelle & Son Donald• Michelle Lax • George Kerr, III • Dr. Veronica Franklin • Mama Cee’s sister and niece • Rose Williams • Randy Punley • Lynn Sulyma • Esther Smith • Marcus Garnett • Renee Valentine & Renee Valentine’s brother • • Arden Shutt • Buck Carlson • Delores Fowler • Elaine Durden-Hunter’s mother, Earline T. Green • Evelyn Jones • Steve Sloane • Glenn Conrad • Anthony Goode • Jeffrey Luckenbach • Cathy Batson’s niece Lisa • Cynthia Melman • Kim Battle • ABilly Jones-Hennin • Bill Campbell • Mark Kelly • JoThe family of Joshua Benkins’ Aunt Ellen who passed and for the health of his Father Isaac David Benkins • Amy Stark, on the loss of her cat Rusty, Denise Wright at the passing hof her cousin Marlo Morris• Robin Anderson for the healing of her sister Pam• Tina Fulps at the passing of her friend Emily• Dentia Madyun-Baskerville and family at the passing of her Great Nephew Sejon Reed,•Elaine Durden-Hunter ask for ‘prayers of healing for her dog Angel.
“Church Ministries & Events”
Virtual Choir
Come and join the Virtual Voices of MCC Choir! Lift your voice in our virtual rehearsals while singing from the comfort of your home. For more info, email Music Minister Deidre Mouton Gray at msdeedeemusic@gmail.com.
Spiritual Gifts, Get Involved!
Your’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 me at revdwayne@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).
Singing to God
Join the Virtual Voices of the MCC Choir. Lift your voice in our virtual rehearsals while singing from the comfort of your home. Email Music Minister Diedre Gray at msdeedeemusic@gmail.com
JOIN REV. DWAYNE IN PRAYER FROM NOON TO 12:30 PM Monday thru Saturday
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
Writer’s Ministry
The MCCDC Writers’ Ministry mission is to offer to our church and the world more reflections and devotionals throughout the year. If you’d like to join this project, now or in the future, please contact Rev. Dr. Robin Hawley Gorsline, Writer-Theologian in Residence, at writer@robinhawleygorsline.com
Join Us on YouTube and subscribe to the MCCDC YouTube Channel!
