Tidings From Thomas

World Communion Sunday
Central UMC Central UMC

World Communion Sunday

Out of an abundance of caution, Central has not celebrated Communion since March. All that will end on October 4th. October 4th is World Communion Sunday, an annual observance on which Christians across the globe traditionally celebrate Communion. This Sunday we celebrate our essential connectedness to all Christians as the one body of Christ, the church, by celebrating the church’s shared meal. I cannot think of a better time for Central to return Communion to our worshipping life.

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This Long, Strange Trip - Tidings from Thomas
Central UMC Central UMC

This Long, Strange Trip - Tidings from Thomas

It continues to be a long, strange trip through 2020. Months ago, I thought fall would see a return to normalcy. With regard to in-person gatherings, Central’s issue continues to be one of space. Simply put, our spaces pose a challenge for groups to gather while remaining socially distant.

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Tidings from Thomas - How Much Longer Until We’re There?
Central UMC Central UMC

Tidings from Thomas - How Much Longer Until We’re There?

Do you have childhood memories of road trips? Whether it was a two-hour drive to visit grandparents or the long haul to Disney World, there came a point in every childhood road trip at which I was simply ready to be done. I was done counting out of state license plates and playing cow bingo. I was done looking for funny signs. I was simply done. This usually resulted in annoying my parents with different versions of, “How much longer until we’re there?”

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Tidings From Thomas - Live-Streaming
Central UMC Central UMC

Tidings From Thomas - Live-Streaming

A good friend of mine has rightly insisted on not using the phrase “new normal.” We are adjusting to new circumstances and situations in every aspect of our lives, but so far nothing resembling normal has emerged. For the church, worship has continued to be a moving target.

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Tidings from Thomas - June 1, 2020
Central UMC Central UMC

Tidings from Thomas - June 1, 2020

I have started and stopped writing these words multiple times over the weekend. I have deleted text and thrown away paper because nothing I seem to write adequately conveys what I am feeling and thinking. Regardless, I am compelled to offer a pastoral word in response to the events facing our nation and state.

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