“The entire point of Pentecost is that God will accomplish God’s purposes through us, not because we are powerful in ourselves, but because God will show God’s power through us.”
~ Abimbola Z. Azikiwe
The day of Holy Spirit power begins simply enough: “When the day of Pentecost arrived, they all met in one room” (Acts 2:1). I wonder if they could feel anticipation in the air? I wonder if they knew that something great was about to happen? They were on the cusp of a miracle— a miracle of the Holy Spirit that would give them revived breath just when they thought their breath was running out.
As the Holy Spirit gave them new gifts that day, they became a people on fire. The prophecy of Joel was fulfilled in their lives as in upcoming days the young people saw visions and the elders dreamed dreams. Their lives changed! And, they became change agents for the lives of others. God’s power was working through each of them.
God’s purpose was fulfilled in them and through them that day. God’s power was revealed through them. God broke through in ways greater than they could imagine. Like those early followers of Jesus, we too gather for praise and worship. Knowing what God can do as described in Acts 2: 1-21 and beyond, I believe that God can move in our midst and show us a power beyond ourselves. I believe there is much more that God desires to accomplish through MCCDC, as we gather in expectation of a miracle of the Holy Spirit.
To prepare for our Pentecost worship this Sunday at 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM I invite you to join me praying this prayer: “God of Spirit, open us to your presence and power. Break into our lives and our church in unexpected ways. Through whatever means you choose, lead us to fully live your purpose. And so it is. Amen.”
See you Sunday at 9 AM and 11 AM.
By Faith, Rev. Elder Dwayne Johnson
UPCOMING EVENTS JUNE 2017
THANKS TO ECLECTIC PRAISE & MCCDC
I am so thankful to Eclectic Praise for serving with me at MCC Baltimore last Sunday (May 21) where I preached at their 45th Anniversary Celebration. Eclectic Praise offered four wonderful selections, each of them of a different genre. I received so many positive comments about Eclectic Praise from other pastors in attendance as well as the leadership and members of MCC Baltimore who were so appreciative.
It was also a joy to see so many from MCCDC who “made a day of it!” and journeyed to support on this very special day. The love of MCCDC was truly shared in Baltimore, and many were touched by the ministry of support and presence.
With Gratitude,
Rev. Elder Dwayne
MCCDC Congregation receives the Mary’s House 2017 Community Service Recognition Award
This award recognizes an organization or agency that works consistently with LGBTQ/SGL Elders and has had a presence East of the River. MCCDC fulfills this mission with a culture to serve from cradle to grave with special attention to its elders. This is very apparent in its robust and diverse Older Adults Ministry as well as its outreach last Christmas to East Rive Family Strengthening Collaborative.
In addition, MCCDC has been a supporter of Mary’s House in so many ways – from the beginning. Your encouragement and support has made a difference almost all phases of Mary’s House existence. It’s work with LGBTQ/SGL Elders and Mary’s House for Older Adults is worth noting and CELEBRATING!! This award was given during the Mary’s House Party with a Purpose event on May 27, 2017.
Congratulations to MCCDC.
MCCDC’s Pride Outreach Ministry
MCCDC’s Pride Outreach Ministry invites you to share our message of God’s inclusive love for all people – at the 2017 Pride events! Let us reach people who are hungry and thirsty for a community that is inclusive, loving and creative, and who need to know that MCCDC is the place to be!
MCCDC is partnering again with MCCs and other faith communities in the DMV area that share our message of faith & inclusion. Together we are a Pride coalition called “ChurchesUnitedInPride”.
So, come out and be a part of Pride: Join us for the festivals and march with us in the Parade. We will also have a Pride shirt again. This year’s message is “be the TRUTH you long for”. Please look out for an online order form in the coming days.
If you have any questions about Pride, please contact Knut Panknin at knutpanknin@gmail.com.
Pride is a great way for us to be a collective rainbow breaking through the clouds of injustice and fear!
Pride dates:
TransPride – Saturday, May 20 (Studio Theatre, 1501 14th Street NW)
Black Pride – Sunday, May 28 (Walter E. Washington Convention Center)
La Fe / Latino Pride – Saturday, June 3 (MCCDC)
Pride Interfaith Service – Tuesday, June 6 (Calvary Baptist Church)
Capital Pride – Sat/Sun, June 10/11 (Dupont Circle/Pennsylvania Ave)
Click here to see Washington DC Captial Pride Calendar
2017 Latin Pride service
Join us for the 11th Annual DC Latino Pride and our kick-off event on June 3rd @ 6pm! “La Fe: Resisting through Faith” is our annual event where we hold a non-denominational faith event for LGBTQ individuals in our community and together find unity through shared beliefs.
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¡Únase a nosotros para el 11º Anual DC Latino Pride y nuestro evento de inicio el 3 de junio @ 6pm! “La Fe: Resistiendo a través de la Fe” es nuestro evento anual en el que llevamos a cabo una reunion sin denominación de una fe para las personas LGBTQ en nuestra comunidad y juntos encontrar la unidad a través de las creencias diversas.
Click Here For More Information on Facebook
Click Here For More Information Capital Pride Events
Pride Interfaith Service and Choir
Interested in singing in the choir for the June Pride Interfaith Choir? Join us at the times listed below. We invite you to join us for at least 3 rehearsals (with at least one rehearsal being the final rehearsal on 06/06/2017 at 6pm). All Rehearsals take place at Calvary
Baptist Church located at: 755 Eighth Street, NW, Washington, DC.
Rehearsal Dates at Calvary Baptist Church
Saturday, May 20 and June 3: 1:30pm – 3:30pm in Music Suite
Monday, May 22 and June 5: 7:30pm – 9:30pm in Sanctuary/Music Suite
Tuesday, May 30: 7:30pm – 9:30pm in Music Suite
Tuesday, June 6: 6:00pm – 7:00pm in Music Suite
Tuesday, June 6: 7:00 pm – Pride Interfaith Service in Sanctuary
Join the YAMs for an Open Mic
Join the YAMs for an Open Mic Night on Friday, June 9th from 7pm – 9pm.
All are welcome! A $5 cover is suggested to help fund the YAMs Retreat in September.
“For more information contact churchoffice@mccdc.com or 202-638-7373.
MCCDC SHARE Program
On the First and Second Sunday of each month please see Cecelia Hayden-Smith at the information station to sign up for SHARE.
Orders must be picked up here at MCCDC on May 27th between the hours of 10-11 am
Let’s make share one of our great ministries, God gave us a directive to feed his sheep
That means you and me. Please donate.For more information contact churchoffice@mccdc.com or 202-638-7373
MCC Conference for People of African Descent(PAD)
MEET ME IN ST. LOUIS!
Today I registered for the MCC Conference for People of African Descent, Friends and Advocates (PAD). This is the 9th PAD Conference. Through the years, I have been challenged and inspired at these conferences. I have received tools to help me be a better though imperfect advocate. I have also made friendships that provide mutual nourishment to keep doing the difficult yet joyful work of justice. I would like for at least twenty people from MCCDC to join me from August 3-5 in St. Louis.
See You in St Louis! Rev. Elder Dwayne
Click Here for Registration and Conference Information
CHURCH NEWS
Creating a Life that Matters (CLM)
THIS TRANSNATIONAL SPIRITUAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE IS STARTING SOON!!!
Steve Jones and Rev Cathy Alexander will facilitate this 18 week discipleship course.
ABOUT THE COURSE:
Creating a Life that Matters (CLM) is a three-course curriculum which explores ways to rediscover relationship with the Sacred, with my Self, and with my Passion. These three courses correspond to the spiritual experiences of being changed, gifted and called.
Graduates of CLM will have been challenged to broaden their understanding of all that is Sacred; integrate their self-awareness into being authentic, aware leaders; and live their passion intentionally through the life and work of the church. CLM integrates art, scripture, music, film, journaling, and diverse spiritual resources to augment our exploration of the Christian path.
Steve Jones and Rev Cathy Alexander will facilitate this 18 week discipleship course. The course will be held on Thursdays from June 22nd through November 16th. There will be an informational meeting on June 1st at 7PM. If you are interested please contact Rev. Cathy at revcathy@mccdc.com or 202-638-7373.
Spiritual Writing Workshop with Rev. Dr. Robin Gorsline,
Of What Are You Proud? It’s time for another Spiritual Writing Workshop with Rev. Dr. Robin Gorsline,
Writer-Theologian in Residence at MCCDC—Wednesday, June 14, 7:00-8:30
pm. We will meet on Flag Day (did you forget that June 14 is Flag Day?) and during
LGBTQI Pride Month—and both those prompt me to focus our time together on this topic:
Of What Are You Proud?” Maybe it’s pride in our nation or being queer (or whatever
label you use) or maybe its something you have achieved or your kids or grandkids or
your church or your spouse/lover . . . many possibilities. And, if, for some reason, you
are not feeling pride, you can write about that.
Rev. Robin will provide some writing prompts and suggestions for your own writing,
and there will be an opportunity to share what we have written (but not required of any
one). This shorter, midweek format is designed to help busy people to take a break and
experience the gift of conscious reflection on, and expression of, personal spiritual
truths. Snacks will be provided. Please contact Rev. Robin at RevRobin@MCCDC.com.
JOIN YOUR MCCDC FAMILY Night OUT at the Nationals
Tuesday, June 13, 2017
7:10 PM Nationals Park
Washington Nationals vs Atlanta Braves
Tickets are $30. Payment is due by June 4th. Payments may be made by cash, check, kiosk, text, or online. Also don’t let the price of the ticket keep you from joining the group. Please contact Rev Cathy should you have questions at revcathy@mccdc.com or 202-638-7373.
THE OLDER ADULTS MINISTRY POTLUCK
June 04, 2016
12:30 PM
LOWER LEVEL
All Older Adults 50 and above are welcome to attend.
MCCDC Health Fair and Flea Market Sponsor by the Older Adult Ministry
When: June 24, 2017
Time 1-4 PM
Place: MCCDC, 474 Ridge St. NW, Washington, DC 20001
The Health fair will provided FREE screening , testing and exercise tips.
At the flea market you can get sell items you no longer want or used. Tables are free and all profits from the sales go to MCCDC church.
For more information contact Rev Cathy at revcathy@mccdc.com or 202-638-7373.
PASTORAL CARE DISCERNMENT FOR 2017
READY TO CARE? Willing to serve?
Do you have a consistent prayer life?
Are you able to honor confidentiality?
Are you on the journey of spiritual maturity?
Are you comfortable visiting hospitals and care facilities?
Are you able to set healthy boundaries?
If you answered yes to any of the above questions maybe
PASTORAL CARE MINISTRY is for you!
Informational and Discernment Retreat
Saturday, June 3rd, 9:30 am to 3 pm
Commissioning for 1 year Term
“These are the words of the Lord God: Now I myself will ask after my sheep
and go in search for them. . .and rescue them, no matter where they were scattered
in dark and cloudy days. . . I will search for the lost,
recover the straggler, bandage the hurt,
strengthen the sick, leave the healthy and strong to play.”
~ Ezekiel 34: 11-12, 16; NEB
New!!! MCCDC Google Plus and Instagam Pages!
Click the links below to visit now !!!
Click Here to see MCCDC Google Plus Page
Click Here to see MCCDC Instagram Page
Join the National Center for Transgender Equality
Join the National Center for Transgender Equality on Friday, June 9th for a Transgender Lobby Day on Capitol Hill!
NCTE works hard in Washington D.C. to fight anti-trans legislation and promote trans inclusive policies, but we need you here too. Your presence and personal stories provide the human experiences that change hearts and minds. When you make your voice heard, your lawmakers take note!
This year, we want legislators to know the trans community and understand that we are a powerful force for progress. We must make it clear that the trans community is strong and organized and stands in solidarity with other communities under attack around the country.
Sign up here to meet with your representatives one-on-one.
Sign up here to meet with your representative one-on-one
When: Thursday, June 8th – Friday, June 9th, 2017
Where: Washington, DC
Who should register?
• Transgender people
• Parents and families of transgender people
• Transgender rights advocates and allies
What to expect
You will connect with a network of advocates and supporters of trans equality while gaining the tools necessary to effectively lobby your representatives in D.C. and your home state.
Join dozens of others who will walk the halls of the U.S. Congress sharing personal stories and encouraging legislators to do the right thing by supporting transgender rights.Limited travel and housing assistance is available. We want legislators to hear your voice.
Click Here For More Information
If you have more questions about this or anything else related to Lobby Day, contact me at kmasen@transequality.org.
Kory
Kory Masen, Lobby Day Organizer
National Center for Transgender Equality
CONNECT WITH NCTE
National Center for Transgender Equality
1400 16th St. NW, Suite 510
Washington D.C. 20036
RECYCLING is COMING!!
Throughout the Bible God teaches that we are stewards of our world. To be better stewards, MCCDC will soon begin recycling. Until we roll out a full-blown recycling program, we are asking everyone to do two things. First, we generate a lot of paper waste like left behind bulletins, newspapers and magazines. Please take these items home with you to recycle. Second, DC outlawed styrofoam in 2014. We appreciate people contributing cups and plates to the church, yet to be in compliance with the regulation we cannot accept styrofoam items any longer. If you want to contribute, please bring paper items—better yet buy ones that contain recycled material already! Thank you so much for your generosity and spirit of service.
TUESDAY BIBLE STUDY
Please join the Tuesday Night Bible Study from 7-8 PM in the Welcome Hall. A time of community, fun learning and sharing. For more information please contact Dale Madyun-Baskerville at churchoffice@mccdc.com or 202-638-7373.
MCCDC LIVE STREAMING
MCCDC is going live! We have an opportunity to use of our AV system to reach outside our walls to many people who may not be able to join us in person. To make this happen we must have a subscription service that will provide us the ability to stream our services, concerts and special events, and expand opportunities for participation in our bible studies and other activities remotely. The testing done so far with streaming has generated a lot of excitement, particularly by those who have been unable to visit our church.
You can be a part of making this happen in a number of ways: (1) pray for our reach beyond the walls of our church (2) join others in donating to cover the one-time annual cost of the service and associated AV training for our volunteers; and (3) consider joining the AV ministry.
Click to Donate!
You can contact the church office with questions at 202-638-7373 or churchoffice@mccdc.com.
ELECTRONIC GIVING
With EasyTithe, supporting the church is as simple as clicking a mouse or whipping out your smart phone.
Our new online system allows you to make a financial donation to the church with your credit card or direct debit from your banking account.
You’ll be asked to set up your MCCDC EasyTithe Account. You can set it up to make a one-time/anytime donation or make a recurring donation.
Click to Donate!
You also can give by text 202-999-3841. Please contact the church office with questions at 202-638-7373 or churchoffice@mccdc.com.
YOGA CLASSES
YOGA Classes at MCCDC! There is room for you!
To nourish your physical body in addition to your spiritual body. Yoga is held on Mondays from 7-8 PM. Hope to see you then. If you have questions or desire additional information please contact Rev. Cathy at revcathy@mccdc.com or 202-638-7373.
~ Namaste (“The Spirit in me honors the Spirit in you”)
ADULT SUNDAY SCHOOL SCHEDULE
Adult Sunday School is held from 10:15 to 10:50. Please bring your coffee or tea to the upstairs conference room for the brief yet powerful time together. For more information contact Rose Herring at churchoffice@mccdc.com or 202-638-7373.
Jonah at Sight and Sound Theater
The Tuesday night Bible Study Ministry is sponsoring a trip to see the stage production of Jonah at Sight and Sound Theater in Lancaster, PA. The trip will be on Saturday Aug 19 leaving MCCDC by caravan at 8 AM and returning to MCCDC around 8 PM. This production will also complement the Tuesday Night Bible Study focus on the prophet Jonah in August. For more information please contact Dale Madyun-Baskerville at baskerd6109@gmail.com or 202-638-7373.
Click here to find out more information from about the show.
