More details will be added as they become available. Questions? Please contact the church office.

November 20: Our traditional Giving Tree will be ready. We’re purchasing gifts for Indiana Youth Group, a safe haven for LGBT teens and young adults, and Dayspring Center, our ministry partner that assists homeless families. Complete instructions and due dates are on the gift tags, which are available in the social hall at church. Contact David Squire if you have questions.

November 20: The Children’s Ministry will explore the origins of Thanksgiving through stories, games, crafts, and, of course, food! Preschoolers through fifth graders are invited to the festivities during both morning services.

November 24: Our traditional Thanksgiving Day Dinner will happen from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm. It’ll be a great time with good food and church friends. The church will provide turkey and ham. Please bring a side dish or dessert to help complete the meal, if you can. If you plan to attend, please contact Melody Merida so we can plan appropriately.

December 3: Couples’ Christmas Party. Dinner at Chile Verde at 7:00 pm followed by dessert and a white elephant gift swap at the church. Contact Doug Snow to RSVP or for more info.

December 8 and 9: Sing Joy! Christmas Concert at 7:00 pm. Join us for a casual, cozy, contemporary Christmas concert, with a classic reading of the Christmas story. Concert participants include the Children’s Choir, the Gospel Choir, the Sanctuary Choir, the Instrumental Ensemble and guest Charlie Morgan of the local band Hyryder.

December 18: Birthday Party for Jesus! The Children’s Ministry will hold a birthday party in Jesus’ honor, complete with games, prizes, birthday cake, and a visit by Jesus himself.

December 24: Christmas Eve Open House at Jeff Miner and David Zier’s home from 1:00 to 7:00 pm. Drop in any time from 1:00 to 7:00 for Christmas dinner and a relaxed time with church friends. This is not a pitch-in, and all are welcome. Contact the church office for directions.

December 25: Christmas Remembrances. Join us on Christmas Sunday at our regular worship times for a one-hour service of carols, scriptures, and Holy Communion. We’ll have you out in an hour for the rest of your busy day!

Pious people found him annoying. Sinners found him delightful. Many of us have never met that Jesus — the real Jesus.

Starting September 25, we’re going to try to strip away all the extraneous stuff imposed on Jesus by centuries of institutional Christianity, so we can get back to Jesus as he was. Here’s what we’ll cover:

September 25 • Rock My World

The parable of the Good Samaritan — the most famous parable — is more than a nice story. It challenges modern Christian orthodoxy to its core. Luke 10:25-37.

October 2 • Who Gets Into Heaven — According to Jesus

His answer will surprise you, and challenge you to rethink what you’ve always heard. Matthew 21:28-46.

October 9 • When A Woman Talks Back

The institutional church has shown little respect for the spiritual insights and leadership of women. How about Jesus? What was his attitude toward women? Matthew 15:21-28.

October 16 • When Jesus Encountered A Gay Couple

You may have heard a portion of this story in Sunday school, but not the rest of the story. In Sunday school they glossed over a scandalous fact that changes everything. Matthew 8:5-13.

October 23 • Rules, Rules, Rules

For most of us, that’s what religion has always been. The same was true in Jesus’ day, but not for Jesus. He taught a radical new approach that the institutional church has never quite been able to embrace. Mark 2:21-28.

October 30 • What Must I Do To Be Saved?

If it’s not about rules, and it’s not about doctrinal purity, what is the key to “salvation”? Jesus’ answer is very simple and compelling. Matthew 19:16-22.

November 6 • When A Bad Man Prays

Most of us feel pretty inadequate. Spiritually speaking, we know we fall short. For us, Jesus has a message of hope and encouragement. Luke 18:9-14.

November 13 • Love Life!

Authentic religious life is not about renouncing fun and giving up good times. Jesus set the example. He had so much fun, his critics accused him of being “a glutton and a drunkard.” And we are called to be like him. So let’s get the party started! John 2:1-11.

We invite you to join us each Sunday on this exciting journey of discovery. We meet at 9:30 am and 11:00 am. More info:

• About our Worship Services
• Map and Directions

If you miss any of these sermons, you can watch them at LifeJourneyChurch.cc/listen.

On August 28 we announced a new billboard outreach campaign: Who Stole Jesus? Our goal is to highlight the gap between the Jesus of the Bible and how Jesus is often presented by institutional Christianity. See this document for details.

We believe our campaign will cause many who’ve been turned off by institutional Christianity to take another look at the real Jesus — loving, kind, flexible, merciful, joyful. We also want to challenge churches across central Indiana (and beyond) to step back and examine how they are presenting Jesus.

Already nine billboards have been sponsored by individuals or groups of friends within our church — and we anticipate receiving more sponsorships this Sunday. We hope to reach at least 20. Next Sunday, September 4, is the deadline to sponsor a billboard.

Yard signs will also be a key component of the campaign. If you plan to place yard signs, we need to know now, so we can order the right number. We also need to know how many bumper stickers and t-shirts to order.

If you want to sponsor a billboard, or plan to participate with yard signs, t-shirts, or bumper stickers, please fill out this document and bring it to church on Sunday or return it to the office. Our campaign will begin the week of September 19!

Brown County is THE place to be in the fall and that is exactly where families with children will be headed for our first fall retreat! The Brown County Inn will host LifeJourney Church parents and children October 14 –15, Friday 4:00 pm to Saturday 4:00 pm.

This retreat is more than just a great getaway from the stress of everyday life; it is also a chance for parents to connect with other parents and gather the tools necessary to be the spiritual leaders their children need them to be. Both children and parents will enjoy the Inn’s amenities, including the covered pool, a game room, miniature golf, horseshoes, and more!

The cost for each room (2 queen beds) is $125 + tax, and meals will be served in the Inn’s restaurant. For more information or to reserve your spot please complete the form in Sunday’s Weekly News, or contact Melody Merida. All reservations must be made by September 4.

On September 11, LifeJourney Church will participate in an Interfaith Prayer Vigil for Peace and Unity coordinated by St. Luke’s United Methodist Church.

Twelve different faith traditions and congregations will each provide prayers in a style fitting their tradition to remember the 10th anniversary of 9/11.

If you would like to be part of the LifeJourney group from 8:00 to 9:00 am, please contact Melody Merida. You’re welcome to attend any portion of the Vigil.

Participants

• 7:00 – 8:00 am Orthodox Christian Community of Central IN
• 8:00 – 9:00 am LifeJourney Church
• 9:00 – 10:00 am Baha’i Faith
• 10:00 – 11:00 am Congregation Beth-El Zedeck
• 11:00 am – noon St. Luke’s Labyrinth Ministry
• Noon – 1:00 pm Muslim Community
• 1:00 – 2:00 pm Quaker Community
• 2:00 – 3:00 pm Progressive Spiritualist Church
• 3:00 – 3:30 pm The Hindu Temple of Central Indiana
• 3:30 – 4:00 pm The Sai Center of Indianapolis
• 4:00 – 5:00 pm Indiana Buddhist Center
• 5:00 – 6:00 pm Miami Nation of Indians of the State of Indiana

Black Pride Sunday is August 14, and will feature our special guest Rev. Samuel Offer from Baltimore, a dynamic preacher and gifted singer. We’ll also enjoy our own LifeJourney Gospel Choir, and a soul food potluck! Once again this year, our church is the official Black Pride worship event!

Rev. Offer and the Choir will be featured at both the 9:30 and 11:00 am services, and the potluck will follow the 11:00 am service, around 12:30 pm.

For the soul food potluck, we’re asking all who come to bring a side dish or dessert to share.

First Lady Wanda and Pastor Davis share a wonderful marriage and a thriving church. But when the stresses of an upcoming women’s revival looms, secrets, lies, and redemption take center stage in this joyful musical.

June 3 and 4, 7:30 pm, at LifeJourney Church.

Written and directed by Michael Drain; original music by Stephen Martin.

Starring Vanessa Waters, Michael Drain, Tina Johnson-McCrackin, Stephen J. Martin, and Dawn McCrackin. Accompianed by Carol Upshaw.

Maundy Thursday, April 21, 7:00 pm: Now You’ve Gone Too Far!

Jesus had questionable friendships, and the religious authorities — sometimes even his disciples — didn’t approve.

As we look candidly at Jesus’ life journey and some of his scandalous friendships, we’ll examine how we should be able to do the same. When should we break the rules? When should we forgo decorum for honesty and rage? When does love call us to cross barriers of safety, appearance, and loyalty?

Good Friday, April 22, 7:00 pm: How Powerful Is the Cross?

Christ went to the cross for his betrayer, for the battalion of soldiers who would kill him, for the politicians who would acquiesce to their constituencies, for the dear friend who would fail him.
Did he love these people any more or any less than you or me? Did he judge them? Can we love these people as Christ did? Because these people are still in our world today! In our workplace, in our church, in our government — anywhere there is humankind.

What is God calling you to do with those who challenge your relationships, your humanness, and your fitness to be a child of God? How does love respond?

Easter Egg Hunt, April 23, 10:00 am

We’ll celebrate Easter with the kids with our annual Easter Egg Hunt! This event is for children ages two and older. We will be coloring eggs, playing Easter-themed games, having a bunny hop sack race, and of course hunting for hundreds of colorful eggs. Bring a friend to join us too! If you have questions contact Melody at mmerida@lifejourneychurch.cc

Easter Sunday, April 24, 9:30 and 11:00 am

Join us as we celebrate the power of Christ’s resurrection!

Three groups are offering events on New Year’s Eve:

Friday Morning Oasis will meet at a member’s home for breakfast. We will meet at the church at 9:00 am as usual and follow one another to his home. Please RSVP to Melissa Bruce or email her with questions.

Fellowship Galactica Couch Potato New Year’s Eve
Low-key New Year’s celebration at David Wene and David Squire’s home. Food, friends, and conversation begins at 7:00 pm. We’ll watch Despicable Me and the last half-hour or so of the Times Square event. Soup, salad, and bread will be provided. Please bring an appetizer or dessert to share, if you can. For info and directions, email David Squire. All are welcome. RSVP helpful but not required.

Singles Movie Night/New Year’s Eve Party
All singles are invited to gather at the church at 7:00 pm to ring in the new year! We’ll watch a couple of movies, one action/adventure, one romantic comedy or drama. Sparkling juice for toasting will be provided, please bring an appetizer and a two-liter of your favorite beverage. Join us on our Facebook page to share suggestions for the movies we watch: Facebook.com/JesusMCCSingles.

Our Traditional Giving Tree items…
…will be available by the tree in the social hall on Sunday, December 5. We’re purchasing gifts for Indiana Youth Group and Horizon House. Pick up a gift tag and follow the directions printed on it. Questions? Please contact the church office.

Christmas Program: A Baby Changes Everything
December 9 and 10, 7:00 pm at the church
A Baby Changes Everything is warm and engaging, and will tell the familiar story from the innkeeper’s point of view. Featuring a spectacular arrangement of the title song (made popular by Faith Hill) and the thought-provoking While You Were Sleeping by Casting Crowns, the musical mixes new theatrical songs with beloved songs of the season. The evening will feature our choirs, soloists, instrumentalists, and drama. Directed by Nancy Lafferty, musical direction by Mark Brown.

Couples’ Progressive Dinner
The Couples’ Oasis is sponsoring the Ninth Annual Holiday Progressive Dinner on December 11 at 6:30 pm. Cost for this event is $35 per couple. For availability, contact Stan or Skip via the church office.

Birthday Party for Jesus
On December 19, Children’s Church will celebrate with a Birthday Party for Jesus, complete with gifts and cake.

Christmas Eve Jubilee
December 24, 7:00 pm.
Join Deacon Robert Ferguson and our Gospel Choir for a warm and wonderful Christmas Eve!

Christmas Day Open House
December 25, noon to 7:30 pm
Join us at Pastor Jeff Miner and David Zier’s home for our traditional Christmas Day Open House. We’ll enjoy a complete Christmas dinner with all the trimmings. This is not a pitch-in; please don’t bring anything! Contact the church for directions to Jeff and David’s.

Jesus MCC’s traditional Thanksgiving Day Dinner will happen on November 25 from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm. Please join us if your schedule allows! It’ll be a great time with good food and church friends. You’re welcome to bring board or card games.

The church will provide the entree. Please bring a side dish or dessert to help complete the meal.

If you plan to attend, please email Melody Merida so we can plan appropriately.

Come on out this week for Friday Night Praise! Our theme on October 29 at 7:00 pm will be No Fear.

We’ll welcome musical guest Laura Carmona from Dayton, OH. Laura is passionate in the way she communicates Jesus’ love in song and word. She has been involved in music ministry since she was 14 years old.

We’ll also welcome special guest “Sister Mary Ignatius” from Any Catholic School, USA. This excerpt from Sister Mary Ignatius Explains It All looks at some of the things we’ve been taught about God in the past, and how fear has been instilled by the church. How can we live a fearless life when we’re surrounded by it?

We’ll enjoy an evening of great music, and ponder how we can live a fearless life.

For God has not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind. 2 Timothy 1:7

Join us on Sunday, August 8 as we welcome Indiana Black Pride for our annual Community Worship Celebration! Highlights of the day include:

• Special guest speaker Rev. Candy Holmes! She has been part of MCC since 1987 and is a gifted preacher, healer, and musical director. She is known for her justice and ecumenical work.
• Songs by the Gospel Choir!
• A soul food potluck after the 11:00 am service! Main dishes will be provided. If you plan to take part in the potluck, please bring a side dish or dessert to share.

Rev. Holmes was a guest in the Oval Office when President Obama signed an executive order granting Federal employees with same-sex partners extended benefits on June 17, 2009. Official White House Photographer Pete Souza.

Mark your calendar for Saturday, August 21 at noon! Our annual church picnic is always a time of great fun and wonderful fellowship.

This year the picnic will be part of our anniversary weekend celebration. The picnic will be held on the church grounds and will include loads of great activities: a bounce house for the kids, a tent to provide shade, exciting yard games, and of course some great hot dogs and hamburgers. And if that’s not enough, there will also be a dunk tank so that everyone can have a turn trying to dunk the church staff!

A few notes:

• The church will provide hot dogs and hamburgers, and we’ll each bring our favorite side dish or dessert to share.
• There will be some seating, but if you can, please bring lawn chairs.
• Lemonade and iced tea will be provided. If you’d like another beverage, please bring it with you.

Our next TGI Friday Night Praise Service will be July 30 at 7:00 pm! Our first “experiment” was a wonderful success, so we are going to continue this service each quarter.

If you like praise and worship and want more music, this service is for you! We’ll sing a wide range of old and new favorites.

Our worship theme for the evening is Faith Without Borders. We’ll be blessed with a homily from Michael Drain. You may remember him from the Black History Month service as “the Preacher.” He’ll share some insights about faith and how that impacts us as a church that draws from diverse traditions.

We will have some soloists from our church, and one from our local community, Anthony Rodriguez. Our prayer is that God will speak to you through the music and strengthen you on life’s journey!

The Gay Christian Network will offer their 1-day conference, Reclaiming Christianity, here at Jesus MCC on June 26, beginning at 9:00 am.

It’s for Christians who believe the church’s reputation as homophobic and bigoted needs to change. It’s an opportunity to meet like-minded Christians and learn how to make a difference. The conference is a cooperative effort with welcoming churches in our area.

Info and registration is at ChristiansWhoLove.com. Cost is $20 in advance; $30 at the door. Lunch is provided.

Questions? See the contact form at the conference website, or email David Squire at Jesus MCC.

Pride Season is fast approaching and we’re going to work together to make it better than ever! Here are some ways you can participate:

• We will march in the Indy Pride parade on June 12, and would like as many of us as possible to join in, wearing a Jesus MCC t-shirt. More shirts will be available in the church bookstore on May 30, in sizes from Youth Small to 6XL.
• We’re looking for a few folks to staff the church booth at the Festival. Shifts will be two to three hours, and two or three people will be assigned to each shift. There’s no “proselytizing” involved—booth staff will pass out brochures, answer questions, and mostly, just be friendly.
• New this year: LGBT Family Picnic at Eagle Creek Park, also on June 12. Jesus MCC is a sponsor of this event, and we’ll have a church booth there, same as at the Pride Festival.
• Our Choirs and Instrumentalists will perform a three-song set at the Indy Pride Festival. Look for them on the main stage at 11:45 pm!
• We’re exploring the possibility of having a float in the parade next year. We want to put our heads together and explore ideas.

If you want to be part of any of these activities, please email David Squire.

Jesus MCC's group in the 2009 Indy Pride Parade.

Jesus MCC's Band and Choirs perform at Indy Pride.

At our Sunday evening service on April 11, we will host a presentation of Man from Magdalena, with music by Mary Lou Prince and words by Patty Christiena Willis.

As West Side Story portrays the Puerto Rican experience in New York City in the 1950s, Man from Magdalena is a musical story of the migrant experience in Southern Arizona in the 21st century.

The courage of Manuel Jesús Córdova Soberanes from Magdalena, a city an hour south of the Arizona/Mexico border, inspired the creation of Man from Magdalena. On his way north, he saved an Anglo boy’s life and in so doing gave up his own dream. In his incredible act of kindness, he urges us to find our own ways to reach out our hands and heal. The music will sweep you away.

Tickets are not required; admission is free. A portion of the offering will be given to the Kiva microloan program, which empowers people who are in poverty to create their own business ventures.

Our Music Ministry will present a concert trilogy:

• A Traitor Among Us, Maundy Thursday, April 1 at 7:00 pm.
  We will chronicle Jesus’ last days from the Passover, to the Garden of Gethsemene, to His arrest.
• Do You Know the King of the Jews? Good Friday, April 2 at 7:00 pm.
  We will stand with Jesus before Pontius Pilate, and follow Him through the streets of Jerusalem to Golgatha’s hill. As He is laid to rest in the tomb, we will ask, Who am I that a king would live and die for?
• Arise, My Love. Easter Sunday Morning, April 4 at 9:30 am and 11:00 am.
  Victory, God calls Jesus back from hell!
• Children’s Easter Egg Hunt on Saturday, April 3.
  Email Melody Merida for more info.

Jesus MCC will mark the beginning of Lent with an Ash Wednesday service on February 17 at 6:30 pm. Lent is a 40-day season that begins with Ash Wednesday and concludes at the Great Vigil of Easter. Ash Wednesday is named for the practice of imposing ashes, which many of us have found to be very meaningful.

The service will be a time of reflection and prayer with the imposition of ashes. If you can’t make it to the church you are encouraged to set aside some time for reflection and prayer in your own sacred space.