SantaCruzHarbor

February 2022 at the United Methodist of Santa Cruz

We remain committed to offer healthy adjustments to our activities & to keep people safe as this COVID Pandemic continues … Hybrid Worship and Small Groups (In-Person and on Zoom.)

Thank you for connecting with our website, where we provide updated information about our Small Groups.  Worship information may be obtained by sharing your contact information.  “Like Us” on Facebook!  Please share our web address:  https://umcsantacruz.org    

Join us as you grow deeper in your faith.  Whoever you are and wherever you are on your spiritual journey, you are welcome to grow with us.

We offer Zoom Small Groups on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and the first, third and fourth Thursdays. Indoor Worship includes welcoming vaccinated participants, indoor masking and singing, interactive Passing of the Peace and Prayer Stations at safe distances, and outdoor masking based on your comfort level.  Safe Communion is offered on the 1st Sunday.    Enrich your spirit; let us know how we can support you!

Our Thanks to Joseph Jacobs for sharing his photograph with us (above).

Take a peek at our Hybrid Worship for February: 

February 6th –  Communion will be served

Black Pearl
“Black Pearl”, photo by Joseph Jacobs

Luke 5:1-11 offers us the example of ‘fishing’ during the time of Jesus.

Just drop your nets in the deep waters!”  Amazing the number of fish caught! Jesus says to Simon Peter, “Don’t be afraid!”

Are we fearful about going ‘fishing’ in our community in 2022?  Do we have expectations about sharing our faith with others?  How are we living our faith in these pandemic times?!

February 13th – Luke 6:17-26

We are pleased to have Sam Altis with us again as he shares insight about the “upsidedown-ness” of Jesus’ teaching.  Colin, Trish, Sherry, Elaine and Beth will share parts of the service to enhance our spiritual growth throughout worship.  Sam comes to us from the Association of Faith Communities (AFC).  AFC offers our community shelter for the unhoused and safe parking in various sights.  We have been part of AFC’s ministry for over 9 years.

Usidedown-ness

February 20th – Luke 6:27-38

Could there be a more challenging theme to tackle than trying to ‘love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, and bless those who curse you’.  Finding a way to ‘pray for those who mistreat you’ sounds quite manageable after trying to love, do good and bless those who for whom you are estranged.  Join us as we explore how to be compassionate just like God!

February 27th – Luke 9:28-43

As Jesus secures insight from his spiritual forebearers, God reminds us to be observant and listen to the heartbeat of our faith.

What follows this event is another healing story of a man who has been tortured by an unclean spirit.  Jesus reminds us to prepare our hearts and minds for the care and healing of others … Jesus reminds us that we have been empowered to care for others.

When are we most overwhelmed by God’s greatness and what prevents us from being able to respond to the needs of others? These are wise questions to ponder as we move into the season of Lent during March.

Merced River, Late Afternoon
Merced River, Late Afternoon, photo by Pat Verheul