In Ephesians 6, Paul discusses the issue of spiritual warfare.

First is the assumption that it is among us and around us whether we would desire it or not. Second is a reminder of who exactly is and isn’t our enemy. Finally, Paul describes the sort of “weaponry” required for battle.

Critical to our interpretation and application is the point that this is spiritual warfare we are discussing, and not martial warfare - a point too often confused by the Christian institution and its adherents. 

As we conclude our journey through Paul’s letter to the Christians at Ephesus, I invite you to join me this Sunday in worship at 9:00 or 11:05 am as we examine what is meant by “putting on the whole armor of God,” and how we might employ its use in a way that benefits and expands the Kingdom of God rather than detracts from it.

Peace,

Pastor Todd

Parents and soon to be graduates, we know it feels early to start this conversation, but we want to be sure that we have all of the correct information for our current Senior Class of 2023 so we can share some important dates with you!

Please click >>here<< and select the "Class of '23" tab which takes you to our SUMC 2023 Graduate Recognition Form! Questions? Please contact Kristen Tropeano.

>> Advent Class <<

Sundays | 10:00 to 11:00 am | The Great Hall and via Zoom

The Advent Class (active older adults and anyone interested in reviving their spiritual life) gathers in-person and via Zoom as they study to better understand Scripture. The class will continue with A Clash of Kingdoms, a new video series by Ray Vander Laan that was filmed in Greece. Sunday will continue with the second half of The Powers of Darkness and discussions of similarities between the Roman Empire and today’s governments -- both centered on control through power. They encourage all who are not ready or able for live Sunday School to join them online via Zoom. Contact Jim Morris for more information and/or Zoom access.

>> Connect Class <<

Sundays | 10:00-10:50 am | Room 151

The Connect Class (parents of tweens, teens, and 20-somethings) is watching Max Lucado’s video series called "How Happiness Happens". The author looks at several “one another” statements in the Bible that reveal how the happiest people on earth aren’t those who have the most but those who are willing to give the most away. While we cannot solve every problem, we can bring a few smiles to a few faces. Please contact John Swank for more information.

>> Crusaders Class <<

Sundays | 10:00-10:55 am | Room 152

The Crusaders Class is a group of senior women who study the Scriptures in order to apply the teachings of Christ to their daily lives. They are a welcoming and inclusive group and currently use the UMC's "Adult Bible Studies" as a resource to help them on their spiritual journeys. Please contact Maria Vaughan for any further information.

>> Families Finding Faith: A Reconciling Group <<

Sundays | 10:00 to 10:55 am | Room 212

Beginning Sunday, September 11, join the Families Finding Faith in a 5-week study of Adam Hamilton's "Half Truths." In this study, we will search for the whole truth by comparing common Christian clichés with the wisdom found in Scripture. The clichés include:

 1. Everything happens for a reason.

 2. God helps those who help themselves.

 3. God won't give you more than you can handle.

 4. God said it, I believe it, that settles it.

 5. Love the sinner; hate the sin.

All true? Not so fast. They are simple phrases. They sound Christian―like something you might find in the Bible. We've all heard these words. Maybe we've said them. They capture some element of truth, yet they miss the point in important ways. Please contact Mikel Russell-Nelson for more info.

>> New Directions <<

Sundays | 9:45 to 10:45 am | Room 207

The New Directions class (adults of all ages) are currently engaged in an inquisitive study based on Matt Rawle's book, "The Faith of a Mockingbird". Newcomers are always encouraged to join them. For further information, please contact Jim Telljohann.

>> Open Book <<

Sundays | 10:00 to 10:55 am | Room 210

The Open Book Sunday School class is available to adults of all ages. They're currently in a study of the Gospel of James that will conclude at the end of September. Please contact Miranda Hofstad for more details.

>> Seekers/Young Adults <<

Sundays | 10:00 to 10:55 am | Room 209

The Seekers/Young Adults Class (young adults to active older adults) will continue their study based upon James W. Moore's inspiring "Moments that Take Your Breath Away". This Sunday they'll discuss Chapter 8 "The Moments When God Redeems Our Troubles." Guests are always welcome to join them! Please contact Skip Richardson for any additional information.

Kids  Sunday School class begins at 10:05 am! Please be sure to check where your kiddo(s) should go!

We will continue to use our  KidCheck system for Sunday School sign-ins. All Kindergarteners through 4th graders need to be checked-in using this awesome system.

All check-in machines are located just outside of Room 109! If you don’t already have a KidCheck account, you can create an account here.