AV INSTALLATION CONTINUES!
we have raised $84,762.00-We are $10,738.00 from our goal of $95,500. GIVE NOW!
 





MARRIAGE EQUALITY TO BE HEARD BY THE SUPREME
COURT APRIL 28

In Tuesday's Washington Post, Americans will see a face and name they will be seeing a lot more of in the days to come: the named plaintiff in the marriage equality case before the Supreme Court, Jim Obergefell.

"I'm just Jim," he told the Post. "I just stood up for our marriage." 


 

Obergefell, the named plaintiff in Obergefell v. Hodges and longtime HRC member, married his partner John, who was suffering from ALS, on a medical jet in Maryland in 2013. Obergefell and Arthur, both Ohio residents, filed a case in July 2013, seeking recognition of their Maryland marriage on Arthur's death certificate. Arthur died three months later on October 22, 2013.


 

Since then, Obergefell's case has made its way through the courts and will be heard by the Supreme Court on April 28.


 


 


JOIN US SUNDAY!
9AM & 11AM


#UNITE4MARRIAGE

 

 

 

 

"Set me as a seal upon your heart, as a seal upon your arm; for love is strong as death, passion fierce as the grave. Its flashes are flashes of fire, a raging flame. Many waters cannot quench love, neither can floods drown it."

            ~ Song of Songs 8: 6-7

 

We are on the edge of history.  Next Tuesday the Supreme Court plans to hear all four marriage equality cases before them.  We too are a part of unfolding history as we intercede in prayer and advocate in word and action.

 

Praying in community is one of the most powerful ways to share spiritual strength and inspiration.  Please invite your families, friends and supporters to join you in attending a Multi-Faith Prayer Service at 5:00 PM this Sunday (April 26) at National City Christian church.  You can RSVP (not required) and learn more by going to www.uniteformarriage.org/faith.

 

Love is at the heart of faith. This Multi-Faith Prayer Service will include Rabbi Denise L. Eger, President of the Central Conference of American Rabbis, the largest and oldest rabbinical organization in North America.  Also among participants is a familiar friend of MCC: Rev. Cedric Harmon, co-director of Many Voices: A Black Church Movement for Gay & Transgender Justice.

 

Now is the time for justice and faith to drive equality.  Marriage equality is a spiritual issue.  Candace Chellew-Hodge, author of "Bulletproof Faith" who helped facilitate our Pride Bible Studies by Skype last summer, says: "God created 'human beings,' not men and women.  I don't believe God cares one bit about the genders of two spouses as much as God cares whether there is fidelity, love, commitment, mutuality, respect and desire to show forth God's love and mercy in their relationship."

 

The Supreme Court will soon decide whether love and mercy will be the arbiter of their ruling, likely to be announced in late June or early July.

 

 I believe our prayers will help determine the course of history.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Faithfully,

 

Rev. Dwayne

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


 

MULTI-FAITH PRAYER SERVICE TO TAKE PLACE APRIL 26
 

Two days before oral arguments at the Supreme Court, the faith working group of the United For Marriage Coordinating Committee will host a Multi-Faith Prayer Service. The service will take place on Sunday, April 26, at 5.00pm ET at National City Christian Church located at 5  Thomas Circle, NW, Washington, District of Columbia 20005.

 

Join in a service of prayer and inspiration at this historic moment, on the Sunday before the oral arguments in the marriage cases before the U.S. Supreme Court.

This prayer-filled worship celebration from an array of faith communities, religious traditions and spiritual practices will give witness that the nation truly is ready for the freedom to marry.

 

No matter who you are, where you are on life's journey, or what your faith, religious or spiritual practice may be, you are invited, welcome and encouraged to attend.

More information can be found at https://www.facebook.com/events/815742981814970/

 

  

 


 

READY TO CARE?

WILLING TO SERVE?

 

Do you have a flexible schedule with time to commit?

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?

Is I Corinthians 13 one of your favorite scriptures?

 

 

If you answered yes to the above questions maybe

PASTORAL CARE MINISTRY

is for you!

 

 

Informational and Discernment Meetings:

May 13, 2015 @ 7pm

 

Commissioning for 1 year Term:

Sunday May 17 @ 9 & 11

 

 

"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

 

 

LESSONS IN LETTING GO: FORGIVING OURSELVES AND OTHERS

Please join local healing and therapeutic practitioner Elizabeth McCain for this four week series. Forgiveness can be a challenging process for us all, and is often misunderstood. 

 

In this experiential workshop, learn what true forgiveness for ourselves and others really means. Release old stories of regret, guilt, and resentment of the past, have compassion for yourself and others in the present, and embrace hope for the future. Through group sharing, meditation and prayer, journaling, and energy healing practices, experience the freedom of forgiveness and renewal in body, mind, and Spirit.

Rev. Elizabeth McCain is an interfaith minister, grief counselor, spiritual mentor, energy healer, and professional storyteller in Takoma Park, Md. Whether ministering, counseling, or performing, she believes that sharing and reframing our personal stories heals hearts, creates community, and changes the world. Elizabeth specializes in helping the LGBTQ community and our allies live more meaningful and joyful lives. 

 

To learn more about her work, go to  www.elizabethmccain.com.

 

Dates- Wednesdays, April  29

Time -7:00-8:30pmLocation: MCCDC

Workshop is free and donations to MCCDC are appreciated.

For more information or to sign up please contact Rev Cathy at  revcathy@mccdc.com or 202-638-7373.

 

 

MCCDC CHOIR TO SING 

WITH GAY MEN'S CHORUS OF WASHINGTON, DC

The MCCDC Worship Arts Ministry joins the Gay Men's Chorus of Washington in May 15th and May 16th Spring Concert "Born This Way: Songs and stories from Civil Rights movements".

May 15, 2015 at 8pm

May 16, 2015 at 3pm (ASL) & 8pm

At the historic Lincoln Theatre - 1215 U Street NW

http://gmcw.org/season-shows/born-this-way/

Please come out to support the MCCDC Worship Arts Ministry


 

 

 

AV Installation Update

The installation of the new audio and video systems is now into its THIRD week. Last week the vendor "Audio Video Group" installed the new soundboard cabinet. This past Sunday the sound you heard was coming from the new speaker system. The next steps in the process includes the installation of the new audio board and the video system to include one fixed mounted camera and one manned tripod camera.


 

In a few short weeks training for the new systems will take place and the church would like to encourage those in the congregation who may have an interest to consider participating in this ministry. This is an exciting time in the life of the church and your support and investment in this project is very much appreciated as MCCDC moves beyond the physical walls to reach those in our community and beyond. 


 

If you have not yet contributed, please consider making a gift today. If you would like to become a part of the AV Ministry (Audio and/or Video), please contact Rev Cathy at revcathy@mccdc.com or 202-638-7373. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


MINISTRY CONNECTIONS

Opportunities to serve in ministry are plentiful. If you have a heart to serve and to be a part of something larger than yourself, please consider this your personal invitation to join in ministry. Where needed most:


 

Children's Ministry - The Children's Ministry provides a fun and safe space for children to learn about spiritual values, while valuing each child's unique talents and abilities.


 

Hospitality - God's hospitality extends welcome to the entire community, the Hospitality Ministry provides arms and feet to that welcome. The ministry is responsible for coordinating food and welcome during the social time.


 


 


 

Information Station - These faithful folks coordinate the sharing of information about ministry activities, events and directions. They extend the hospitality of welcome to everyone who has questions or require assistance.

 

Adult Sunday School - This is a brief yet powerful time to connect with scripture and each other. Participants meet on Sundays from 10:15 - 10:45. All are welcome.


 

AV Ministry - This Ministry is responsible for the sights and sounds in worship and other services in the sanctuary. If you feel called to investigate learning and participating in providing audio and video support, please pray about connecting.


 

If you are interested in any of these service ministries, please contact Rev Cathy at revcathy@mccdc.com or 202-638-7373.


 

 

ADULT SUNDAY SCHOOL STARTS BACK APRIL 26

Let Us School You  (And you can teach us a few things, too)

Come be a part of the restart of Adult Sunday School beginning April 26.


 

Held Sunday mornings between the two services from 10:15 'till 10:45, in the lower-level conference room. First lesson is "Bible Basics, an Overview" 

 

Bring your coffee and cookies. Sessions are short but pack a lot of punch.  It's a great way to spend a half-hour - learn something new and fellowship, too.

 

All are welcome and wanted,

 

MCC EASTERN NETWORK GATHERING

The Next Gathering will be held on Saturday April 25th at MCC of the Blue Ridge. The Majors areas of focus will be on a) Diversity and on b) Hispanic Ministries in your church. Click here to register http://bit.ly/1CfLl4o or contact your lay MCCDC Delegates Bob Whitman, Steve Jones or Cecelia Hayden-Smith.


 

The Network Leadership Team is considering the possibility of scheduling a bus from Washington, DC to Roanoke, Virginia for the upcoming Network Gathering- "be the change Together." In order to be financially feasible, it would require about 50 people at about $30 per person.  The bus would depart Washington DC at around 5 am on April 25, and would return by approximately 9:30 pm that evening. Depending on interest, there may be two scheduled stops to pick up people along the way.


 

What we are seeking ASAP (no later than MONDAY APRIL 13, if possible) is a count of interested folks who would say YES to the possibility. Please respond to  RevEmmaChattin@gmail.com with YES to a BUS and the number of people, and names if possible.  All who are interested are welcome to attend.


 

 

ECLECTIC PRAISE OPEN JAM SESSION AND SING ALONG 

TO TAKE PLACE APRIL 26, 12:45PM 

Dust off your instruments and your vocal chords and join us for a fun, stress-free jam session and let's praise God through music. There is absolutely no commitment...no strings attached...just a time to have fun, fellowship and get more familiar with praise and worship songs while having a chance to sing or play that instrument that you've stashed in your closet for years. Any questions please contact Johanna Hardy churchoffice@mccdc.com.


 

A ROCK, A RIVER, A TREE-A PARK FOR ALL PEOPLE!

The MCCDC Volunteer Action Team (VAT) is joining Washington Parks & People for a tree planting event on May 2, 2015 to help revitalize the once forgotten Marvin Gaye Park.


 

Work equipment will be provided, please bring gardening gloves if you have them. The event will take place from 11am-2pm.


 

Washington Parks & People has spent 18 years building community partnerships. They work hard to revitalize Washington by reconnecting two of its greatest but most forgotten assets: its vast network of public land and waterways. Come help get the park Spring-ready!  And get a free MCCDC-VAT T-shirt!!


 

In order to participate you need to SIGN UP!! Please contact Kaleen Love or Wendy Watson at  VAT@mccdc.com to sign-up for the event.  Please provide a phone number and T-shirt size.  NOTE: Bring your lunch!!!


 

TRANSPORTATION: Meet at the park. If you need a ride or can give a ride, note that when you sign up.


 

Event Details:

Date:               Saturday, May 2, 2015

Time:              Event at the park is from 11:00am-2:00pm

Location:         Marvin Gaye Park, 5000 Nannie Helen Burroughs Ave NE

Activity:         Park clean up and urban agriculture (They will provide tools)


 

 
TRANSFORMATIONAL

 

SPIRITUAL DEVELOPMENT 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.  Courses will be starting soon at MCCDC. If you are interested in becoming a part of this amazing event or receiving more information, please contact Rev Cathy at revcathy@mccdc.com or 202-638-7373. 


 


 

 

 

 

 

  MCCDC
eBLAST
APRIL 23, 2015

MCCDC
474 RIDGE STREET NW
WASHINGTON, DC 20001
 
www.mccdc.com
 
 
EBLAST
 
MCCDC
202-638-7373
 
Rev. J. Dwayne Johnson
 
Rev. Cathy Alexander
 
MCCDC WEBSITE
  www.mccdc.com

  

MCCDC ONLINE GIVING

  

 MCCDC TEXT GIVING
202-999-3841

  

MCCDC CONTACT INFORMATION: 
MAIN NUMBER
202-638-7373

  

CHURCH WIFI
Mccdc@474

EXTENSIONS:
800-Church Office
801-Senior Pastor, Rev. Dwayne
802-Minister of Connections, Rev. Cathy
804-Bookkeeper, Lance 



  


 

  

CALENDAR 
highlights

SATURDAY,
APRIL 25
EASTERN NETWORK GATHERING
MCC OF THE BLUE RIDGE

SUNDAY,
APRIL 26
9AM /11AM
WORSHIP SERVICE
"THE NATURE OF LOVE"
REV. Y'LON DOZIER

SUNDAY,
APRIL 26
ECLECTIC PRAISE OPEN JAM
12:45PM

SUNDAY, 
APRIL 26
MULTI-FAITH SERVICE
5PM
NATIONAL CITY CHRISTIAN CHURCH

TUESDAY, 
APRIL 28
BIBLE STUDY
7PM

WEDNESDAY,
APRIL 29
FORGIVENESS WORKSHOP
7PM

SATURDAY,
MAY 2
TREE PLANTING-VAT GROUP
MARVIN GAYE PARK

FRIDAY & SATURDAY,
MAY 15 &16
MCCDC CHOIR/GAY MEN'S CHORUS
LINCOLN THEATRE


THIS SUNDAY 

AT THE INFORMATION STATION

  

*PICK-UP BULLETIN/

ATTENDANCE CARDS

*GIVE TO THE AV MINISTRY

 

STAY CONNECTED